Desmond Claude is one of the best guards left in the transfer portal. Coming off a strong season at USC (15.8 points, 4.2 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game), he’s now narrowed his options to Alabama, Texas A&M, and Gonzaga after Duke and Virginia pulled themselves out of the running in recent weeks. Find out which team is in the lead and why Alabama could make a late push for the former USC guard.
Gonzaga Emerging As Top Destination
Gonzaga is still looking for a volume scorer to round out its 2025-26 roster and Claude’s decision to delay his visit to Alabama could play in the Bulldogs favor.
Mark Few has developed a reputation for getting the most out of his players and the Zags have become a pipeline for underrated NBA players during his tenure. Gonzaga has had at least one player drafted in each of the last four NBA Drafts with guards like Julian Strawther, Corey Kispert, Andrew Nembhard, and, Jalen Suggs all making significant contributions to their respective teams.
Claude is looking to improve his NBA Draft stock and could get some significant usage at a high-profile program in Spokane.
Alabama Visit Delayed, But Crimson Tide Still In The Hunt
Alabama appears to be the front-runner for the former USC guard, especially after freshman Labaron Philon announced that he will be keeping his name in the 2025 NBA Draft.
The Crimson Tide will still return guards Aden Holloway and Latrell Wrightsell but there is room in the backcourt for another key contributor. The frontcourt is stacked with key incoming transfers, including Noah Williamson, Keitenn Bristow, and Taylor Bol Bowen all expected to eat up significant minutes. Jalil Bethea is also coming in from Miami and could complicate matters in the backcourt, but Claude is more polished and would instantly give head coach Nate Oats one of the deepest rotations in the country.
The fit makes sense and Alabama likely has enough NIL budget to get a deal done this late in the process. Claude recently delayed his official visit to Alabama last weekend, but look for both parties to reconvene the conversation one June 1st, following the dead period, which could solidify their standing as his top suitor.
Texas A&M Makes Sense For Claude
Few college basketball teams are dealing with the kind of turnover that is happening at College Station this season, as the Aggies returned just one player from the Buzz Williams era in former three-star recruit Chris McDermott
Yet, Texas A&M has had one of the most disappointing offseasons, especially considering the Aggies have the NIL budget to make a major splash in the transfer portal market. Head coach Bucky McMillan did manage to snag a few high-profile prospects who underperformed at other destinations but adding a player like Claude would undoubtedly improve the Aggies chances of competing in the SEC.
Small forward Mackenzie Mgbako, along with Kansas transfers Zach Clemence and Rylan Griffen should make an immediate impact but the backcourt is thin despite adding Jacari Lane and Josh Holloway, a pair key contributors looking to make the jump from mid to high major basketball. Claude would instantly slot into the starting lineup and be among the top offensive options while securing an NIL deal that matches his overall talent.
Ole Miss Remains Patient But Outlook Is Bleak
Ole Miss emerged as the clear frontrunner for Claude early in the process after securing an official visit. With leading scorer Matthew Murrell departing, coach Chris Beard urgently needs a proven guard who can step in immediately. Claude fits perfectly with Beard’s fast-paced, guard-oriented offense, offering immediate minutes and a central role as the primary ball-handler.
The Rebels have also reportedly prepared a significant NIL package, which boosts their chances considerably.
After Ole Miss missed out on P.J. Haggerty, Claude could be at the top of their list. But given how long it’s taken them to prepare an offer for Claude, it appears that the Rebels and former USC guard are more moving in a different direction.
Virginia Likely Out Of The Running
Virginia was though to be in hot pursuit of Claude, driven by significant backcourt turnover, but that likely came to an end following the g of San Francisco graduate transfer Malik Thomas.
Predicting Claude’s Decision
Alabama and Texas A&M are firmly in the driver’s seat, offering a clear, immediate role combined with a strong NIL package. Meanwhile, Gonzaga remains a strong alternative, especially if Claude is looking to develop into a future NBA player. Claude is expected to announce his final decision soon, but with the dead period lasting until June 1st, fans might have to wait another week or two to find out his final destination.
