Arkansas State’s rising star Izaiyah Nelson has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal. Well, now you can almost hear the collective buzz around college basketball. The 6’10” forward has been a force for the Red Wolves, turning heads with his dominance in the paint, shot-blocking ability, and offensive versatility.
When a player of his caliber enters the portal, you know elite programs are taking notice. The big question now: where will Nelson take his talents next?
Top 5 Potential Transfer Portals for Izaiyah Nelson
With programs across the country looking to bolster their frontcourt depth, Nelson is undoubtedly one of the most intriguing names available. Let’s take a deep dive into the top five potential destinations for the Arkansas State standout.
1. Kentucky Wildcats
Let’s be honest: If John Calipari calls, you pick up the phone. Kentucky has been a powerhouse for years, especially when it comes to developing NBA-caliber big men. With Nelson’s athleticism, he could thrive in Kentucky’s system, where he’d get the chance to showcase his rebounding against elite competition.
The Wildcats love high-energy, defensive-minded forwards, and Nelson fits that mold perfectly. Plus, the exposure of playing at Kentucky, where scouts are practically camped out at every game, could fast-track his NBA aspirations. If he wants to be tested against the best and improve his draft stock, Lexington might be the ideal landing spot.
2. North Carolina Tar Heels
Another blue-blood program that could use a player like Nelson is North Carolina. Hubert Davis has continued the Tar Heels’ tradition of building dominant frontcourts, and Nelson’s skill set would be a perfect addition.
UNC thrives on up-tempo play, second-chance opportunities, and defensive intensity—three areas where Nelson could make an immediate impact. His ability to run the floor as a big man and crash the boards could give UNC a key advantage in the ACC.
Plus, playing in Chapel Hill means national exposure. Not only that, but also a passionate fan base, and a legitimate shot at deep March Madness runs.
3. Kansas Jayhawks
Bill Self has a reputation for turning great forwards into elite ones, and Nelson would be a fantastic fit for the Jayhawks. Kansas consistently competes for national championships. And if they added a rim-protecting, rebounding machine, like Nelson, it could be a game-changer for their defense.
With his ability to alter shots in the paint and finish around the rim, Nelson would be a crucial piece in Kansas’ system. The Big 12 is a brutal conference, but playing for the Jayhawks would mean competing at the highest level against future NBA talent. If Nelson wants to develop in a championship-level environment, Lawrence, Kansas, could be calling his name.
4. Oregon Ducks
Oregon has been a sneakily good destination for transfers, and Nelson could thrive in their unique, up-tempo system. Dana Altman loves athletic, versatile forwards who can defend multiple positions, and Nelson’s shot-blocking makes him an ideal fit.
The Ducks also have a history of developing under-the-radar big men into legitimate pros. Plus, let’s not ignore the fact that Oregon’s top-tier facilities make Eugene an attractive place to play. If Nelson is looking for a place where he can get plenty of touches and expand his offensive game, Oregon could be the perfect landing spot.
5. Texas Longhorns
Texas has been on the rise under its new leadership, and the Longhorns are looking for more frontcourt depth. With the departure of key big men, Nelson could walk into an immediate starting role in Austin. The Longhorns have been solid defensively, but adding a shot-blocker of Nelson’s caliber would make them even tougher inside.
The Rising Star: Arkansas State Forward
Playing in the Big 12 would give Nelson the chance to battle against top-tier talent every night, helping him refine his game before making a potential NBA jump. Texas also offers strong NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities. This could make this move even more appealing for Nelson.
Nelson’s entry into the transfer portal has set the college basketball world on fire, and for good reason. His size, defensive presence, and ability to finish around the rim make him one of the most coveted forwards available.
KEEP READING: Top 10 NIL Deals in Men’s College Basketball
With programs like Kentucky, UNC, Kansas, Oregon, and Texas all needing a player of his skill set, Nelson is in a great position to choose a team that will elevate his game.
Wherever he lands, expect Nelson to make an immediate impact. Keep an eye on this one—his decision could shake up the landscape of college basketball.
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