Former four-star recruit Gabe Cupps has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal after two seasons with Indiana. The 2022 Ohio’s Mr. Basketball saw his development hindered by injuries during his sophomore campaign, creating a crossroads moment in his collegiate career.
Potential Landing Spots for Gabe Cupps
With his basketball IQ, defensive prowess, and leadership qualities still intact. Cupps now searches for a program where his talents can truly flourish. His Ohio roots and previous recruitment connections make several programs particularly intriguing as potential landing spots.
Cupps’ decision presents fascinating possibilities ranging from a homecoming to Ohio’s basketball powerhouses to joining established programs that previously showed interest. His experience in the Big Ten provides valuable experience, while his high-character reputation makes him an attractive addition to programs seeking stability.
NEWS: Indiana guard Gabe Cupps has entered the transfer portal, sources told me and @JamieShaw5.
The 6-2 sophomore is a former four-star recruit. https://t.co/UWEjdva1yL pic.twitter.com/GJheK3n87O
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) March 18, 2025
1. Ohio State Buckeyes
As an Ohio native, Cupps returning home to play for Ohio State makes a lot of sense. The Buckeyes previously recruited him, and with their backcourt experiencing turnover, Cupps could step in and contribute immediately.
His basketball IQ, leadership, and defensive capabilities fit well within Ohio State’s system, and staying in the Big Ten would allow him to compete at a high level.
2. Xavier Musketeers
Xavier was among the schools that recruited Cupps out of high school. It operates as an Ohio-based educational institution. The Big East presents challenging competition to the Musketeers, who need extra guard players on their roster.
The Musketeers should consider Cupps because his offense management ability and defensive strength and pacing of the game matches well with their team system. Plus, staying in his home state could be an appealing factor.
3. Dayton Flyers
Dayton presents an opportunity for Cupps to take on a larger role in a strong mid-major program. The Flyers have been a consistent force in the A-10 and could provide him the chance to lead a backcourt while still playing high level basketball.
Since Dayton originally offered Cupps during his recruitment, there’s already a relationship that could be rekindled.
4. Michigan Wolverines
Michigan is another high-major program that pursued Cupps in high school. With the Wolverines undergoing roster changes, they could benefit from adding a steady, experienced guard who brings leadership and defensive intensity. Playing in the Big Ten again would keep Cupps in a familiar competitive environment while offering him a fresh start.
5. Virginia Cavaliers
Virginia is known for its strong defensive system, which makes it an ideal landing spot for Cupps, who prides himself on tough and smart defensive play.
The Cavaliers also recruited him during his high school years meaning there’s already familiarity between the program and player. If he’s looking for a disciplined, structured system to develop further Tony Bennett’s program could be a great fit.
The Road Ahead
With Gabe Cupps now in the transfer portal, his next move will be crucial for his development. Whether he returns home to Ohio, stays in a power conference, or finds a high-level mid-major, his choice will impact the next chapter of his career.
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As the transfer process unfolds, these five programs stand out as the most realistic and beneficial destinations. With his basketball IQ, defensive skills, and leadership, Cupps has the potential to thrive in the right system and make an impact at his next stop.
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