NC State’s aggressive transfer portal strategy took a decisive turn this week as the Wolfpack officially ended its pursuit of Memphis transfer PJ Haggerty. The 2025 American Athletic Conference Player of the Year had been heavily linked to Raleigh under new head coach Will Wade’s system.
The shift came after Texas Tech standout Darrion Williams committed to NC State on May 22, fundamentally altering the program’s roster construction and NIL allocation. Haggerty, seeking a $4+ million package and guaranteed point guard role, now faces an uncertain transfer destination with limited high-profile options remaining.
Darrion Williams’ Commitment Changes Everything for Wolfpack
Joe Tipton broke the news on social media, posting that “NC State is no longer expected to pursue Memphis transfer P.J. Haggerty following the addition of Darrion Williams.” The announcement came just days after Williams (considered the portal’s top overall player) chose the Wolfpack over Kansas and Ohio State.
NC State is no longer expected to pursue Memphis transfer PJ Haggerty following the addition of Darrion Williams, source told @On3sports. https://t.co/Wz9SzSEI3e
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) May 23, 2025
Williams’ commitment represented Will Wade’s biggest recruiting splash since arriving at NC State. The 6-foot-6 forward averaged impressive numbers at Texas Tech and withdrew from the NBA Draft to return to college basketball. His addition marked NC State’s seventh Power Five transfer under Wade’s aggressive roster overhaul strategy.
The timing proved crucial for Haggerty’s recruitment. Previously considered the heavy favorite to land the dynamic guard, NC State’s priorities shifted dramatically once Williams entered the fold. The Wolfpack’s NIL resources, while robust, couldn’t accommodate both players’ substantial financial expectations while maintaining roster balance across other positions.
Haggerty’s Limited Options Moving Forward
The 6-foot-3 guard from Crosby, Texas, remains one of college basketball’s most accomplished players. At Memphis, he maintained elite production with 21.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.8 steals per game while shooting 36.4% from 3-point range in 2024-25. His 42-point performance in the AAC Tournament tied a conference record.
However, Haggerty’s transfer process has become increasingly complex. His camp’s insistence on a primary point guard role, despite his natural fit as a shooting guard, has limited potential destinations. The $4 million NIL demand represents one of the highest figures in the transfer portal, further narrowing his options.
Kansas State has emerged as a serious contender for Haggerty’s services, while a return to Memphis hasn’t been completely ruled out. His current NIL valuation sits at $1.7 million, ranking among college basketball’s top earners, but his actual market value in the transfer portal may differ significantly.
With one year of eligibility remaining, Haggerty’s next decision will be crucial for both his professional prospects and immediate collegiate success. The former unanimous AAC Freshman of the Year and Kyle Macy National Freshman of the Year winner must now navigate a dramatically changed landscape where his previous leverage has diminished considerably following NC State’s strategic pivot.
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