On March 19, Virginia Cavaliers’ 6’1 “, 190-pound Dai Dai Ames, a Chicago native who started his career at Kansas State, made his plans to enter the NCAA transfer portal known through his agent.
Where will the journeyman guard play ball next year?
Top Transfer Portal Spots For Dai Dai Ames
As a freshman at Kansas State, Ames averaged 5.2 points, 2 assists, and 1.1 rebounds per game for the Wildcats. After the 2023-2024 season, Ames transferred to Virginia as a sophomore, where he has played in all but one of the team’s games and started 26 of those 31 games. He averaged 8.7 points, 4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.
It’s likely that Ames decides to transfer to an NCAA Tournament contender—Virginia failed to make the tournament for the second time in the last four years. In addition, Ames never got to play under the coach he wanted to learn from. Virginia did not retain Ron Sanchez, a coach who originally influenced Ames’ decision to move to Virginia.
Ames is a prolific scorer. With the impact he made at Kansas State, even as a college freshman, he is sure to be a key contributor to any NCAA team. His ability to score in double figures is an addition his team would welcome.
His record of scoring from different spots on the court highlights his efficiency as a player. In just the last season, he shot 82.9 percent from the free-throw line and 46 percent from the field.
Virginia Tech Hokies
Unlike his previous team, the Hokies have made the NCAA tournament 13 times and have won eight games in the tournament. For a scorer like Ames, Virginia Tech is a team where he could thrive. He could also be a strong point guard for the team.
Arkansas Razorbacks
The Arkansas team is a member of the Southeastern Conference and is currently in the NCAA tournament, which is an advantage for Ames as a competitive player. The team is efficient when it comes to scoring, so Ames can only get better.
Tennessee Volunteers
In addition to his scoring ability, Ames is an impressive dribbler and a strong defender—skills that the team will benefit from. With a program that has produced NBA talents, Tennessee could be a stepping stone for Ames’ basketball career.
Oklahoma State Cowboys
Ames would be a great addition to a team known for its strong offense. In addition to the NCAA tournament, the Cowboys will make playing in the Big 12 conference and NIT tournaments possible for Ames.
Texas Longhorns
Even as a sophomore, Ames has gathered a passionate fan base, something the Texas team also boasts. Ames decided to leave Virginia because he wanted to be under a coach with a stronger track record of success, something the Longhorns could offer.
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Among these teams, the Virginia Tech Hokies could offer Ames NIL opportunities, opening doors beyond skill development.
These teams share common traits with Ames in terms of offense, defense, skills, and success rates. As a college sophomore with experience in two teams, Ames is well-positioned to adapt to a new environment and make a significant impact.
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