Sam Brown, Penn’s star guard, shocked the Ivy League with his transfer portal announcement Monday. His decision follows the departure of head coach Steve Donahue earlier in the month.
Known for leading the Ivy in scoring during conference play, Brown is now seeking a new home. Here are five potential landing spots that could shape his future.
Top 5 Potential Landing Spots for Sam Brown
Brown’s exit from Penn marks a turning point for the Quakers.
He shared his thoughts on social media, writing, “A few weeks ago I could have never imagined finishing my college career other than the University of Pennsylvania.”
However, the coaching shakeup pushed him to explore options. He added, “The recent coaching change has led me to consider whether there might be other options to combine my passions as a student, athlete, and competitor.” Brown hasn’t ruled out a return to Penn, but he’s testing the waters.
The 6-foot-3 guard leaves behind an impressive résumé. As a freshman, he started 18 games and hit 43.3% of his three-pointers, ranking third in the Ivy League. His sophomore year began slowly, averaging eight points in nonconference play.
Then he exploded, posting 19.3 points per game in Ivy matchups. On March 1, he dropped 42 points against Columbia—the most by a Quaker since 1989. This loss stings for Penn, especially after losing stars Jordan Dingle in 2023 and Tyler Perkins in 2024.
MORE: Transfer Portal Madness: Over 500 Men’s Basketball Players Enter on the First Day
Now, Brown’s skills and ambitions make him a hot commodity. Here are five teams that could help him reach his goals:
Villanova Wildcats
Villanova thrives with guards who can shoot and score, and Brown fits that mold. After losing Tyler Perkins—another Penn transfer—in 2024, the Wildcats need backcourt depth. Coach Kyle Neptune’s system prioritizes spacing, ideal for Brown’s 40%-plus three-point accuracy.
Staying near Philadelphia, his hometown, could also play a role in his decision.
St. John’s Red Storm
Rick Pitino’s up-tempo St. John’s squad embraces guards who can score in bunches. Brown’s offensive prowess would complement their style. The Red Storm already snagged Penn’s Jordan Dingle in 2023, proving Pitino’s eye for Ivy League talent. Playing at Madison Square Garden offers massive exposure.
Brown has pro aspirations, and Pitino’s history with guards could help him get there.
Gonzaga Bulldogs
Gonzaga’s elite program has a strong track record of integrating transfers. Brown’s perimeter game could shine in Spokane. The Bulldogs compete at the highest level annually, and his scoring could bolster their backcourt.
A cross-country move may be bold, but the national spotlight and development potential align with his goals.
Penn State Nittany Lions
Penn State is facing roster turnover after the 2024–25 season, particularly among its shooters. Brown’s Pennsylvania roots—his father, Brett, played there—make this a natural fit. Coach Mike Rhoades needs shooting and scoring, and the Big Ten would offer a tough but valuable challenge.
Staying close to home, Brown could thrive and build on the Nittany Lions’ recent momentum.
Arkansas Razorbacks
John Calipari’s Arkansas system revolves around dynamic guards, and Brown fits that mold. The Razorbacks already landed top transfers in 2024, and adding Brown could elevate their backcourt even more. The SEC offers high-stakes competition and lucrative NIL opportunities.
MORE: Top 5 Landing Spots for Devin Askew in the Transfer Portal
Calipari’s track record with NBA-bound guards matches Brown’s long-term ambitions.
