Washington State transfer Cedric Coward has emerged as one of the most sought-after players in the NCAA transfer portal. The 6’6″ senior guard, known for his scoring prowess and versatility, recently visited Duke University as he narrows his choices to Duke and Alabama.
While Coward is testing the 2025 NBA Draft waters, his collegiate options remain open should he return for the 2025–26 season.
Duke’s Pursuit of “Eventual NBA Player” Cedric Coward
ESPN analyst Fran Fraschilla has high praise for Coward, stating, “He is an eventual NBA player. He is an instant starter on any team in college basketball, and his intangibles are off the charts”. This endorsement underscores the significant impact Coward could have on a collegiate program.
Washington State transfer Cedric Coward visits Duke.
“He is an eventual NBA player. He is an instant starter on any team in college basketball and his intangibles are off the charts” – @franfraschilla https://t.co/7OQr5IVjrr
— Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria) April 28, 2025
Coward’s 2024–25 season at Washington State was cut short due to a rotator cuff injury after just six games. Despite the limited playtime, he showcased his abilities by averaging 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game, with impressive shooting splits of 55.7% from the field and 40% from three-point range.
His college basketball career has produced extraordinary achievements. Coward started his college career at Division III Willamette University before putting in standout performances to earn First-Team All-Big Sky recognition at Eastern Washington.
Coward relocated to Washington State to pursue his development, while the top programs, together with NBA scouts, started to take notice of him.
NBA Aspirations and Collegiate Considerations
Coward has declared for the 2025 NBA Draft but maintains his college eligibility. According to his agent, Todd Ramasar, Coward’s primary focus is on the NBA Draft, but he is keeping collegiate options open should he decide to return to college basketball.
Duke’s interest in Coward aligns with their need to bolster their roster following the departure of several key players to the NBA. The Blue Devils’ strong track record of developing NBA talent makes them an attractive option for Coward as he considers his next steps.
Alabama remains the other contender for Coward’s commitment. Both programs offer competitive environments and the opportunity to showcase his skills on a national stage, which could enhance his draft stock should he choose to play another collegiate season.
Coward’s decision will significantly transform college basketball competitions during the 2025–26 season. Duke and Alabama, among other college programs, strongly desire to integrate Coward’s talent into their basketball programs while he decides to join the NBA right away or return to college.
KEEP READING: 2025 Men’s College Basketball Transfer Portal Tracker
The NBA Draft draws increased attention to Coward because his next move is expected to revolutionize his future team’s performance.
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