Discover the Most Impactful Transfers in the Big 12 for the 2023-24 Season: Top Ten Picks Revealed!

It’s Big 12 week here at On3, and we’re excited to bring you the 2023-24 basketball season previews. This off-season, over 1,800 players entered the men’s college basketball transfer portal. And guess what? Every team in the Big 12, all 14 of them, brought in players from the portal. In fact, each team brought in more than one transfer, making it a total of 55 transfers for the conference. West Virginia led the pack with seven transfer additions, followed by Oklahoma, Texas Tech, and TCU, each with five portal adds. Transitioning to a new school, system, and league can be challenging, but transfers are often brought in for specific needs and both parties are usually on the same page when making the commitment. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the transfers in the Big 12 Conference this season. Now, keep in mind that this list doesn’t include the best or highest upside players; it’s based on the potential impact of the player. We took into consideration factors such as how much of an impact the player will have on his program’s season, whether they could be an x-factor for a team finishing in the bottom or top third, and if their performance could make a difference in their team’s overall record. We also looked at the player’s impact on the league, their team, their talent, and more. The Big 12 had an abundance of talented transfers, so narrowing it down to just ten was no easy task. Players like Aly Khalifa from BYU, Arthur Kaluma from Kansas State, Kerr Kriisa from West Virginia, and others mentioned below narrowly missed the list but are still expected to have a significant impact on the league. Without further ado, let’s dive into the ten impact freshmen in the Big 12 for the upcoming season.

1. Sr. C Hunter Dickinson, Kansas
From: Michigan
Height/Weight: 7-2/260
2022-23 Stats: 34 Starts, 18.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.8 blocks, 56.0% FG, 42.1% 3P
The Buzz: Hunter Dickinson has been a force to be reckoned with in college basketball for the past three seasons. With an impressive career point and rebound total, multiple accolades, and a track record of success, he’s expected to make an immediate impact for the Jayhawks, who have their sights set on a national championship.

2. GR. G Max Abmas, Texas
From: Oral Roberts
Height/Weight: 6-0/175
2022-23 Stats: 34 Starts, 21.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.1 steals, 37.3% 3P
The Buzz: Max Abmas is the leading active career-scoring leader in college basketball, with an impressive career point total. His arrival at Texas has raised expectations for the Longhorns, and he’s expected to play a central role in their success. As the reigning Summit League Player of the Year, his scoring ability sets him apart.

3. Sr. G LJ Cryer, Houston
From: Baylor
Height/Weight: 6-1/200
2022-23 Stats: 31 Starts, 1.0 points, 2.1 assists, 2.6 3P makes, 41.5% 3P
The Buzz: LJ Cryer is a prolific three-point shooter, leading the Big 12 in three-point percentage last season. With Houston losing key players, Cryer’s scoring ability and defensive skills will be vital for the Cougars as they enter the Big 12 with high expectations, including a potential Final Four appearance.

4. GR. PG RayJ Dennis, Baylor
From: Boise State/Toledo
Height/Weight: 6-2/180
2022-23 Stats: 35 Starts, 19.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.5 steals, 48.4% FG, 36.6% 3P
The Buzz: Baylor lost its entire starting backcourt from last season, but RayJ Dennis brings hope with his impressive stats and recognition as the MAC Player of the Year. With a chance to make a big impact on the Big 12, Dennis will be a key player for the Bears this season.

5. GR. PG Tylor Perry, Kansas State
From: North Texas
Height/Weight: 5-11/180
2022-23 Stats: 36 Starts, 17.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.3 steals, 41.3% 3P
The Buzz: Tylor Perry, the reigning Conference USA Player of the Year, is known for his shooting skills, particularly from beyond the arc. With Kansas State coming off an Elite Eight run, Perry will be tasked with replacing point guard Markquis Nowell and contributing to the team’s success.

6. GR. C Jess Edwards, West Virginia
From: Syracuse
Height/Weight: 6-11/240
2022-23 Stats: 32 Starts, 14.5 points, 10.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 2.7 blocks, 59.2% FG
The Buzz: Jess Edwards was a standout big man in the ACC last season, earning All-League and All-Defense honors. His defensive prowess and impressive rebounding abilities make him a valuable addition to West Virginia’s roster. Expectations are high for Edwards as he joins a program with eyes on success.

7. GR. G Jameer Nelson Jr., TCU
From: George Washington/Delaware
Height/Weight: 6-2/205
2022-23 Stats: 29 Starts, 20.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 2.4 steals, 44.5% FG
The Buzz: Jameer Nelson Jr, the son of NBA point guard Jameer Nelson, had a standout season last year, earning All-CAA and All-Defense honors. With his scoring ability and defensive skills, Nelson is expected to fill the void left by guard Mike Miles, making him an important player for TCU this season.

8. RS-Jr. C John Hugley, Oklahoma
From: Pittsburgh
Height/Weight: 6-10/275
2022-23 Stats: 6 Games/Starts, 8.0 points, 3.6 rebounds, 47.8% FG
The Buzz: John Hugley’s college career has been plagued by injuries and suspensions, but when he’s on the court, he’s a force to be reckoned with. With a strong presence in the paint, Hugley’s scoring, rebounding, and passing abilities make him an essential part of Oklahoma’s improved team.

9. Jr. G Keshon Gilbert, Iowa State
From: UNLV
Height/Weight: 6-4/180
2022-23 Stats: 29 Starts, 11.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.7 steals, 38.4% 3P
The Buzz: Keshon Gilbert has experience playing under Coach TJ Otzelberger at UNLV, and now he reunites with him at Iowa State. Known for his defensive skills and ability to drive to the paint, Gilbert is set to make an impact on both ends of the court for the Cyclones.

Keep an eye on these ten impact freshmen as they bring their talent and skills to the Big 12 this season. With their arrival, the conference is sure to see some exciting basketball action.

Reference

Laura Davis

Laura Davis covers the world of basketball with precision. Her articles explore NBA and college basketball, offering game analysis, player profiles, and highlights. Laura’s passion for hoops is evident in her comprehensive basketball coverage.