Tekao Carpenter, a 6’3″ senior guard, has reopened his recruitment after decommitting from North Carolina Central. He had previously decommitted from Austin Peay. Known for his explosive scoring (career 35.2% 3-point shooting) and tenacious defense, Carpenter brings experience and versatility to any roster.
As a 2023-24 NJCAA Division I Third Team All-American (CentralMoInfo.com), he’s a valuable portal target.
Potential Landing Spots for Tekao Carpenter
Austin Peay/North Carolina Central commit G Tekao Carpenter is reopening his recruitment. https://t.co/cn5F9CVEFN https://t.co/ZyKWMjAY9P
— Verbal Commits (@VerbalCommits) May 3, 2025
Gonzaga Bulldogs
Gonzaga is a regular NCAA Tournament contender and frequently adds veteran guards, like Arizona State transfer Adam Miller. Carpenter’s scoring and defense match Gonzaga’s high-octane, efficient system. For him, it’s a shot at national exposure in the WCC.
Mark Few, known for developing guards into NBA prospects, could refine Carpenter’s decision making and shot selection, areas often critical for senior transfers.
His shooting (35.2% from three) and two-way ability would complement a roster that often relies on freshmen. He’d give Mark Few a steady veteran presence to bolster perimeter defense and offensive depth.
Villanova Wildcats
Villanova under Kyle Neptune prioritizes guards who defend and shoot. Carpenter’s skill set aligns with their style, especially amid expected roster turnover. Playing in the Big East gives him NBA eyes on every game.
Kyle Neptune could help Carpenter improve his consistency as a shooter and decision-maker, integrating him into Villanova’s system of ball screens and off-ball movement.
Carpenter could start or come off the bench in their three guard system. His shooting would stretch defenses, and his defensive mindset would fit Villanova’s culture. He’d give Neptune leadership and another reliable scoring option.
Iowa Hawkeyes
Iowa needs one more guard, and Carpenter is a match. Fran McCaffery’s uptempo offense would let him thrive as a scorer. The Big Ten platform also raises his visibility.
Fran McCaffery could maximize Carpenter’s scoring by using him in pick-and-roll sets and transition plays, where his explosiveness shines. McCaffery’s experience with transfers would help Carpenter adjust quickly to the Big Ten’s physicality.
Pairing him with guards like Stirtz and McCollum gives Iowa scoring and defensive depth. Carpenter’s experience helps close games, an area where Iowa has struggled. He could push them into the Top 25 mix.
Arkansas Razorbacks
John Calipari’s squad is loaded with young talent but could use an experienced guard. Carpenter fits as a floor spacer and defender, supporting Arkansas’s drive heavy guards.
Calipari, known for building championship, caliber teams, could refine Carpenter’s offensive efficiency, particularly in high pressure situations. Calipari’s NBA connections would also help Carpenter gain visibility for a professional caree
With DJ Wagner and Karter Knox headlining, Carpenter wouldn’t need to dominate the ball. Instead, his catch-and-shoot ability and perimeter defense would fill key gaps. Calipari would gain a veteran presence to steady a youthful roster.
Memphis Tigers
Memphis missed out on PJ Haggerty due to NIL limitations, but still needs a scoring guard. Penny Hardaway values athleticism and up-tempo play, both strengths of Carpenter’s game.
KEEP READING: 2025 Men’s College Basketball Transfer Portal Tracker
Penny Hardaway, a former NBA star, could mentor Carpenter on using his athleticism to attack the rim while improving his playmaking. Hardaway’s focus on up-tempo play would allow Carpenter to showcase his scoring in transition.
Carpenter could take on a featured role, giving Memphis a go-to scorer and on-ball defender. He’d also serve as a mentor to younger guards while showcasing himself for pro scouts.
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