USC freshman guard Avery Howell has entered the NCAA transfer portal following the Trojans’ Elite Eight loss to UConn on March 31. Howell, who saw increased playing time throughout the season, averaged 7.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.3 steals per game.
Howell shot 43.1% from the field and 39.9% from three while logging 20.8 minutes per contest. Howell is now the third USC player to enter the portal, joining Dominique Darius and Aaliyah Gayles. With her versatile skill set, she will be a highly sought-after transfer as programs look to add depth to the backcourt.
Top 5 Schools That Could Land USC Transfer Avery Howell
The former five-star prospect, who joined USC alongside Kennedy Smith and Kayleigh Heckel, took time to find her rhythm but became an essential piece for Lindsay Gottlieb’s squad as the season progressed.
During her freshman season, Howell finished with 7.5 points along with three rebounds on average and led the team at 39.9% from three-point range. Through the NCAA Tournament, she elevated her performance to lead USC to victory against Kansas State by scoring 18 points while getting eight rebounds and making four steals.
BREAKING: USC freshman Avery Howell has entered the transfer portal, sources told @On3sports.
The 6-0 guard averaged 7.5 ppg this season.
TRACKER: https://t.co/StsxDxjlYl pic.twitter.com/3PHsweVL2y
— Talia Goodman (@TaliaGoodmanWBB) April 3, 2025
Now, in the transfer portal, Howell is a sought-after target for programs looking to bolster their backcourt. Here are five schools that could be ideal fits:
1. South Carolina Gamecocks
South Carolina is a dominant force in women’s college basketball, consistently in contention for national championships. With top Canadian recruit Agot Makeer joining the Gamecocks in 2025, Howell could find a seamless transition alongside a familiar face.
Under coach Dawn Staley, South Carolina has developed elite guards, making it a strong destination for Howell.
2. UConn Huskies
The Huskies ended USC’s season in the Elite Eight and have a long history of producing standout guards, including legends like Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird. UConn values perimeter shooting and high basketball IQ—two areas where Howell thrives.
Her post-midseason three-point percentage (45.7%) makes her a natural fit for Geno Auriemma’s system.
3. Stanford Cardinal
Stanford offers a blend of top-tier academics and basketball success. With key departures looming, the Cardinal will be looking for a reliable shooter to step in. Howell, an honor student in high school, could thrive in Stanford’s structured system while adding much-needed scoring and defensive versatility (1.3 steals per game) to the roster.
4. Indiana Hoosiers
Indiana has emerged as a serious contender in women’s basketball thanks to coach Teri Moren’s emphasis on perimeter scoring and defensive toughness. The Hoosiers’ reliance on three-point shooting makes them a great fit for Howell’s skill set.
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With Indiana competing at a high level in the Big Ten, Howell would have the opportunity to play a crucial role in a team with championship aspirations.
5. Florida State Seminoles
After losing their primary scorer Ta’Niya Latson Florida State needs to rebuild their concept. Howell would instantly enhance the Seminoles’ rotation by combining floor stretching skills with rebounds and defensive intensity.
She possesses the versatility required to assume an immediate playmaking position where she will direct the young and offensive-explosive team.
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