San Diego State’s basketball program is experiencing a significant shake-up. With the freshman standout Magoon Gwath has officially entered his name into the NCAA Transfer Portal while also testing the waters for the 2025 NBA Draft.
With the NCAA Transfer Portal open and NBA scouts evaluating his potential, which programs are in play for one of the most coveted big men available?
San Diego State’s Magoon Gwath Eyes Transfer Portal
At 7 feet tall with a 7’3″ wingspan, Gwath established himself as an elite rim protector in his first full season with the Aztecs. San Diego State has been struggling in the NIL era, finding it difficult to compete financially with Power Five programs that can offer bigger deals.
Sources indicate that Gwath wants to explore higher-level competition while securing a better NIL deal before potentially declaring for the NBA Draft. Power Five programs with strong NIL collectives are expected to pursue him aggressively.
San Diego State star freshman Magoon Gwath has entered the transfer portal.
Gwath averaged 8.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 2.6 BPG for the Aztecs.
Former 0🌟 recruit that has NBA potential. pic.twitter.com/d2IhDvS44n
— College Basketball Report (@CBKReport) March 24, 2025
Several high-profile schools could be in the mix for Gwath, especially teams needing a defensive anchor with offensive upside. Here are a few prime candidates:
Oregon Ducks
Why it makes sense: Oregon heavily recruited Gwath in high school and has a history of developing long, athletic big men. With the Ducks heading into the Big Ten, adding a rim protector like Gwath could be crucial for success in a more physical conference.
USC Trojans
Why it makes sense: The Trojans are looking to rebuild after a disappointing season and need more interior presence after struggling defensively. With their Los Angeles-based NIL opportunities, USC could make a strong financial push to bring Gwath in.
Villanova Wildcats
Why it makes sense: Villanova prides itself on developing two-way players, and Gwath’s skill set fits their modern approach. If he wants to play on the East Coast and compete for a National Championship, Villanova would be an excellent landing spot.
Arizona Wildcats
Why it makes sense: Arizona is one of the best programs in the country at developing NBA-caliber big men (Deandre Ayton, Lauri Markkanen). If Gwath wants maximum exposure and a system tailored to his offensive skill set, Arizona could be a top choice.
Duke Blue Devils
Why it makes sense: Duke is always in the market for top-tier talent, and with Kyle Filipowski heading to the NBA, there’s a vacant spot in the frontcourt. Playing at Duke would instantly boost Gwath’s NBA Draft stock while giving him access to one of the best player development programs in college basketball.
NBA Draft Prospects: Is Magoon Gwath Ready?
His impressive play earned him Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year, Mountain West All-Defensive Team honors, and Mountain West Freshman of the Year. But with San Diego State struggling to retain talent due to NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) challenges, Gwath is now looking for the next step in his career.
After redshirting his first year, Gwath made a dominant impact in his 2024-25 season, appearing in 26 games and proving to be a game-changing presence on both ends of the floor. He averaged:
- 8.5 points per game on 50.6% shooting from the field
- 37.8% shooting from three-point range, a rare skill for a seven-footer
- 5.2 rebounds per game
- 2.6 blocks per game, the highest mark in the Mountain West Conference and tied for sixth in the NCAA
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Gwath’s defensive instincts and ability to stretch the floor make him an ideal modern big man. His combination of shot-blocking and three-point shooting draws comparisons to Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies, a rim-protecting forward who can defend multiple positions.
While Gwath’s defensive ability is NBA-ready, his strength and offensive consistency still need development. Most draft experts currently see him as a second-round pick, but another year at a major college program could push him into the first round in 2026.
Whether it’s in a Power Four program or the NBA, one thing is certain—Magoon Gwath’s journey is far from over.
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