Grand Canyon University’s forward Duke Brennan, known for his efficient 64.6% field goal shooting, has captured the attention of powerhouse programs like Stanford, Villanova, and Iowa, among others. As Rivals Hoops reported on April 11, 2025, the 6-foot-10 junior is considering his options after he had a great season with the Lopes, averaging 10.4 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. Here is a closer look at Brennan’s journey, the schools contesting for his talents, and a deep look into his transfer decision.
Duke Brennan’s Impact at Grand Canyon and Transfer Move
Brennan has been a key player for Grand Canyon (GCU) for the past two seasons under the tutelage of head coach Drew. In the 2024-2025 season, he had a shooting record of 64.6%, having excelled in scoring and shooting, making him a reliable choice for GCU. His team-leading average of 9.2 rebounds per game exemplifies his control of the boards on either side.
Grand Canyon forward Duke Brennan will be a hot name. This season he averaged 10.4 ppg, 9.2 rebounds and shot 64.6%.
He is repped by (@OG6_SM) OG6 Sports Management and has been contacted by:
Ohio State, USC, Stanford, Iowa, West Virginia, DePaul Villanova, Rutgers, Arizona… pic.twitter.com/dFeaMqn5D4
— Rivals Hoops (@RivalsHoops) April 11, 2025
The Canyon’s 2024-2025 season ended with a 26-8 record, demonstrating strong leadership from veterans like Tyon Grant-Foster, JaKobe Coles, Lok Wur, and Collin Moore. The Lopes were eliminated by Maryland in the NCAA Tournament first round, suggesting the conclusion of an era due to key players experiencing loss of their eligibility. Brennan was the only potential returning starter for the 2025-2026 season, but in a report from USA Today, it was indicated that he had joined the transfer portal, putting his team in a rebuilding phase.
The forward’s departure is a major challenge for GCU, as they must now search for replacements for their top scorers from last season. Head coach Drew has started working on the team roster by securing commitments from Jaden Henley (UNLV), Wilhelm Breidenbach (Washington), and Dusty Stromer (Gonzaga). However, Brennan’s departure creates a gap at center, the void which Breidenbach, a 6-foot-10 senior, is expected to fill.
The Race for Brennan: Stanford, Iowa, and Beyond
Brennan’s exceptional stats and physique project him as a top prospect in the transfer portal, with many programs showing interest, including USC, Stanford, Iowa, Ohio State, West Virginia, DePaul, Villanova, Rutgers, Arizona State, and many more.
Stanford, a Pac-12 program ready to join the ACC in 2025, is looking to boost its frontcourt as it adjusts to the new phase, which is a competitive environment. The Cardinal has also been active in the transfer market, with several reports connecting them to Olsen in 2024.
Iowa, meanwhile, has a history of using transfers to stay competitive, as they are looking to a comeback after a challenged season, and Brennan’s ability to score in the paint and secure rebounds fits well with this need. The Big Ten’s styles of play fit well into Brennan’s skill set, making Iowa a potential contender in the recruitment challenge.
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As the NCAA considers a settlement to increase Division I basketball scholarships to 15 per team, programs are gearing up to attract talents of Brennan’s caliber. The portal offers Brennan a big chance to enhance his career by joining a more visible program while developing under elite coaching.
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