Utah star guard Gianna Kneepkens shined in the 2024-25 season, leading the Utes with 19.3 points per game while shooting 50.4% from the field and 44.8% from three. Her scoring and leadership helped Utah reach the NCAA Tournament, though they fell to Indiana in the first round.
The 5’11” junior, known for her sharpshooting and all-around game, has been a key player since her 2021 debut, playing a major role in Utah’s rise. After overcoming a foot injury in 2023-24, she became a leader in the team’s Big 12 transition. However, on March 28, Kneepkens announced she was entering the transfer portal.
“This decision causes me tremendous angst because I have loved my time at Utah, and at the same time, I am excited to find out what God has in store for me,” Kneepkens said.
Her departure leaves Utes fans shocked as she looks for a new opportunity.
Top 5 Landing Spots for Gianna Kneepkens
BREAKING: Utah’s Gianna Kneepkens has entered the transfer portal, sources told @On3sports.
The 6-0 junior averaged 19.3 ppg, 5 rpg, 3 apg and 1 spg this season.
TRACKER: https://t.co/StsxDxjlYl pic.twitter.com/ETzqziYMV9
— Talia Goodman (@TaliaGoodmanWBB) March 28, 2025
USC Trojans
JuJu Watkins’ ACL injury has lowered expectations for USC basketball next season. The team may not be as strong, but what if head coach Lindsay Gottlieb brings in a top transfer to help? Watkins’ recovery timeline hasn’t been shared yet, but if she returns for the 2026 NCAA Tournament, USC could have one of the best duos in the country.
TCU Horned Frogs
TCU could be a great landing spot for Kneepkens, keeping her in the Big 12, where she is already familiar. Head coach Mark Campbell’s fast-paced system would be a good match for her sharpshooting skills. With Hailey Van Lith heading to the WNBA, Kneepkens could take on a key role and help TCU stay competitive.
Her experience in the conference would make for an easy transition as she steps into a team looking to build on its success.
Tennessee Volunteers
In Kim Caldwell’s first season as head coach, the Lady Vols made a strong run to the Sweet 16 before falling to Texas 59-67. With senior Jewel Spear moving on after the season, Tennessee will need to fill a key spot in the backcourt. Kneepkens could be an ideal fit, bringing elite shooting, strong defense, and big-game experience.
Paired with Talaysia Cooper, she would help Tennessee stay competitive as they push for national prominence.
LSU Tigers
Under head coach Kim Mulkey, LSU has become a powerhouse, with Angel Reese leading the Tigers to the 2023 national title and Flau’Jae Johnson emerging as the team’s new star. Kneepkens would be a seamless fit in Mulkey’s system, providing a reliable outside threat and strong defensive presence.
Her skill set would complement Johnson’s scoring and strengthen LSU’s backcourt as they push for another championship run.
Texas Longhorns
Madison Booker has established herself as a top forward in the conference, helping Texas to an impressive 33-3 record this season. With seniors Taylor Jones and Rori Harmon departing, the Longhorns will need reinforcements in the backcourt.
Kneepkens would provide a strong perimeter presence, complementing Booker’s inside game and adding defensive versatility. Her arrival could help Texas remain a top contender in the Big 12.
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Kneepkens has plenty of great options, and any of these schools could be a strong fit. However, until she makes her decision, her next destination remains unknown. Fans will have to wait and see where she chooses to continue her career.
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