San Diego State’s standout freshman, Magoon Gwath, has decided to withdraw from the transfer portal and return for his sophomore season. The 7-foot center initially explored options with programs like Kentucky and Michigan before recommitting to the Aztecs.
Gwath, an unranked recruit turned Mountain West Freshman of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, dominated defensively, leading the conference with 2.6 blocks per game. His rapid rise made him a sought-after transfer, but he will now continue his development under Brian Dutcher, solidifying San Diego State’s frontcourt for another year.
San Diego State’s Defensive Star Magoon Gwath Announces Return
Gwath has decided to withdraw from the transfer portal and return to San Diego State, delivering a major win for the Aztecs. Late Tuesday night, Gwath took to Instagram in collaboration with the MESA Foundation to confirm his decision.
“Home is where the heart is. Staying home!” Gwath wrote. “I am excited to share that I am removing my name from the transfer portal. If I return to school next season, it will be as an Aztec. Thank you for your continued support as I go through the 2025 NBA Draft process.”
Home is where the heart is. Staying home!
I am excited to share that I am removing my name from the transfer portal. If I return to school next season, it will be as an Aztec! Thank you for your continued support as I go through the 2025 NBA Draft process. – @magoongwath pic.twitter.com/TJI2UuNiie
— MESA (@mesa_aztecs) April 2, 2025
Initially, Kentucky and Michigan emerged as frontrunners for the 7-foot center. Early Tuesday, multiple projections favored Kentucky, but by nightfall, Gwath had made his shocking announcement. The San Diego Union-Tribune even prefaced its report with,
“This is not an April Fools’ joke.”
Reporter Mark Zeigler noted that despite heavy interest from top programs, Gwath struggled with the idea of leaving the Aztecs. Head coach Brian Dutcher, who gave Gwath his initial opportunity, was a key factor in his return.
“I knew he wanted to be here with us and knew in his heart that he wanted to be at San Diego State, but he owed it to himself and to his family to see what was out there,” Dutcher said.
“At the end of the day, he was willing to settle for less money. It’s not all about money, as much as people want to say it is.”
Gwath’s decision shifts Kentucky’s recruitment efforts elsewhere, with UAB’s Yaxel Lindeborg now a priority.
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Meanwhile, San Diego State continues building its roster, recently securing forward Jeremiah Oden from the transfer portal. Gwath averaged 9 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 blocks, shooting 37% from three en route to Mountain West Defensive Player and Freshman of the Year honors.
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