Boston College men’s basketball is making waves in the transfer portal, landing one of the top defensive guards in the country. Chase Forte, the reigning Summit League Defensive Player of the Year, is officially heading to Boston College after an outstanding 2024-25 season at South Dakota.
His addition is a major offseason win for head coach Earl Grant, who is looking to bounce back after a disappointing 12-19 campaign. At 6’4″, Forte brings elite two-way talent and experience, and not just from one or two schools.
Boston College marks Forte’s fifth stop in his collegiate career, a journey that’s been defined by growth, adaptability, and production.
But it was this past season with the Coyotes that truly elevated his profile on the national stage.
Dominant at Both Ends for South Dakota
Forte led the South Dakota Coyotes with 17.9 points, 3.2 assists, and 1.9 steals per game during the 2024-25 season. He reached double figures in 29 of 33 games, eclipsing 20 points in 16 contests.
NEWS: South Dakota transfer Chase Forte has committed to Boston College, he tells @LeagueRDY.
Forte began his career at UNC Asheville before spending one at Gulf Coast State and one at Northwestern State. He played just one season at South Dakota.
He averaged 17.9PPG, 4.4RPG… pic.twitter.com/J8yiOpW7cU
— Sam Kayser (@247HSHoops) April 19, 2025
His aggressiveness in attacking the rim paid off, as he ranked seventh in the nation in free throw attempts, showcasing both his physicality and ability to draw contact consistently.
Defensively, Forte was just as impactful. He recorded 32 steals in conference play, the most in the Summit League, cementing his status as the top defender in the conference. His quick hands, strong footwork, and instincts made him a nightmare for opposing guards, which led to his Defensive Player of the Year honors.
A Coveted Talent in the Portal
Unsurprisingly, Forte’s standout season made him one of the most sought-after players in the transfer portal. According to reports, at least 10 schools showed serious interest, including NCAA Tournament programs like Baylor, Georgia, Ole Miss, and Mississippi State.
Ultimately, Forte chose Boston College, a program in need of a spark after a step backward in the 2024-25 season. The Eagles went 12-19 overall and 4-16 in ACC play, a drop from their 20-win season the year prior. Despite the slide, head coach Earl Grant will return, and landing Forte is a sign that the program is ready to compete again in the ACC.
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Forte’s arrival gives Boston College a proven scorer, a defensive anchor, and a leader who has played heavy minutes in high-stakes games. He led South Dakota in minutes played, points, assists, and steals, and was third in rebounds, a testament to his all-around contributions.
For a Boston College squad looking to rise in one of the toughest conferences in college basketball, Chase Forte could be the cornerstone of a turnaround. His experience, defensive prowess, and scoring ability make him one of the most intriguing transfers in the country this offseason.
Forte’s move to Boston College is more than just a roster addition, it’s a statement. The Eagles are serious about rebounding in the ACC, and with the Summit League DPOY in their backcourt, they’re already a team to watch heading into next season.
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