Former five-star recruit Dior Johnson has entered the transfer portal again, leaving UCF after a brief stint. Now, even after searching for his 14th school since high school, his talent remains undeniable. Johnson can join five potential teams through the transfer portal for the 2025-2026 season.
5 Teams Where Dior Johnson Can End Up in the New Season
Johnson started as an eighth-grader playing varsity at Saugerties High School. He hopscotched across elite programs like IMG Academy, Findlay Prep, Oak Hill Academy, and more before landing at Pitt in 2022.
Dior Johnson recently announced he will be entering the transfer portal.
Johnson is seeking his 14th school since the start of high school.
High school:
2017-18: Saugerties HS (played up as an 8th grader)
2018-19: IMG Academy
2018-19: Saugerties HS (returns)
2018-19: Findlay… pic.twitter.com/LK5yKgTwhc— College Basketball Content (@CBBcontent) April 13, 2025
“Johnson never appeared in a game for Pitt,” as legal troubles derailed his freshman year. After pleading guilty to misdemeanor charges of strangulation and simple assault in December 2022, he was redshirted and later left for Clarendon College.
At Clarendon, Johnson found his footing. He dominated, averaging 29.7 points per game and earning NJCAA All-American honors. This led to UCF, where he hoped to reset. Yet, in 35 games with the Knights, he averaged just 2.9 points in 8.5 minutes per game.
“I’m looking for a place to call home,” Johnson said recently, hinting at his latest move into the portal. Now, at 21, the New York native’s raw talent, defensive grit, playmaking, and scoring potential make him a gamble worth taking for some programs. But his history of short stays raises questions about his loyalty. Below are five schools that could offer Johnson a fresh start.
1) Syracuse Orange
Johnson once committed to Syracuse in 2020, drawn to its upstate roots and fast-paced style. In rebuilding the Orange, Coach Adrian Autry might see a chance to unlock Johnson’s potential. Returning to New York could ground him, letting his playmaking shine in a guard-friendly system.
2) Memphis Tigers
Memphis thrives on second-chance stories. Coach Penny Hardaway has molded transfers into stars, and Johnson’s JUCO scoring outburst fits the Tigers’ mold. With a need for backcourt depth, Memphis could give him the minutes to rebuild his confidence.
3) Providence Friars
Kim English has Providence leaning on transfers to compete in the Big East. Johnson’s ability to pressure ball-handlers and create off the dribble aligns with their gritty identity. A structured program might help him channel his energy.
4) USC Trojans
Eric Musselman’s arrival at USC signals a new era. Johnson, who bounced around California high schools like Fairfax and Mayfair, knows the area well. The Trojans need guards to complement their rebuild, and Musselman’s track record with reclamation projects makes this a sensible fit.
5) Washington Huskies
Danny Sprinkle is ambitiously steering Washington into the Big Ten. Johnson’s versatility and ability to score and defend multiple positions could fill a roster gap. A program on the rise might finally be the right stage for him to settle.
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Johnson’s talent has never been the issue. His highlight reels show a guard who can break ankles and lock down opponents. But 13 schools in eight years doesn’t look good on the record. The right coach, system, and support could turn his potential into production. For now, the portal is his latest crossroads. Wherever he lands, it’s clear that Johnson’s journey is far from over.
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