The college basketball transfer portal is heating up, and JP Pegues has just added his name to the list. The former Furman sharpshooter who captured national attention with his game-winning three against Virginia in the 2023 NCAA Tournament is looking for a new home after a season at Auburn, where playing time proved scarce.
Before his Auburn stint, Pegues was nothing short of dominant at Furman, putting up impressive numbers with 18.4 points, 4.8 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game during his junior campaign. With his elite three-level scoring ability, 36% three-point shooting, and proven leadership as a floor general, Pegues has positioned himself as one of the most intriguing guards in the 2025 transfer portal.
Top 5 Potential Landing Spots
South Carolina Gamecocks
South Carolina stands out as a natural destination for Pegues, having been among his final choices before he committed to Auburn. Coach Lamont Paris could immediately slot the Nashville native into a significant role where his playmaking and scoring would address the Gamecocks’ backcourt needs.
The fit seems perfect for both sides. Pegues would bring veteran leadership and clutch performance credentials to a South Carolina program on the rise. His SEC experience, albeit limited at Auburn, means he understands the conference landscape and could hit the ground running as the Gamecocks look to climb higher in the standings next season.
Florida Gators
The Gators’ backcourt could use his scoring punch and veteran leadership as they rebuild their guard rotation following recent departures.
Pegues would likely thrive in Gainesville as a reliable floor leader capable of improving the team’s offensive efficiency. His remarkable 87% free-throw shooting and ability to create for himself and others would make him an immediate impact player for a Florida team always looking to compete at the highest level in the SEC.
Missouri Tigers
Missouri presents Pegues with a compelling opportunity to resurrect the scoring prowess that defined his Furman career. Coach Dennis Gates is building a competitive program and could offer Pegues the perfect platform to showcase his complete offensive arsenal in his final collegiate season.
The Tigers would benefit tremendously from adding Pegues’ proven ability to create offense and lead a team. His 56% finishing rate at the rim and strong assist-to-turnover ratio would immediately upgrade Missouri’s backcourt efficiency. This could help elevate Pegues’ draft stock and Missouri’s conference standing.
LSU Tigers
LSU represents an intriguing rebuilding situation in which Pegues could step in as a featured scorer and stabilizing veteran presence. The Tigers are reshaping their identity and could center their backcourt around someone with Pegues’ proven production and leadership qualities.
After his reduced role at Auburn, Pegues would likely be interested in being a primary offensive option. His often overlooked defensive contributions would also benefit an LSU program looking to establish toughness and two-way play as it climbs back toward SEC relevance.
Oklahoma Sooners
Oklahoma appeared on Pegues’ shortlist during his previous transfer decision, indicating mutual interest that could be rekindled. The Sooners need reliable guard play as they continue building depth and would value his combination of scoring versatility and playmaking vision.
The coaching staff could immediately position Pegues as their primary ball handler and scoring threat, creating opportunities for himself and teammates. His experience running an offense would prove invaluable for Oklahoma as they navigate a competitive conference schedule and push toward tournament contention.
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After showing his star potential at Furman and gaining high-major experience at Auburn, Pegues brings a rare combination of proven production and untapped potential to whichever program lands him. His decision will undoubtedly reshape his basketball future and the outlook for one fortunate program ahead of the 2025-26 season.
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