Emma Risch, the 6’1″ sophomore guard from Notre Dame, is a strong three-point shooter with great basketball skills. These traits made her a five-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American in 2023. Shooting 42.1% from deep, she’s great at creating space, making plays, and reading the game.
This season, Risch averaged 5.7 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.1 assists over 13 games, playing 13.7 minutes per game before a recurring hip injury—surgically repaired after just seven games in her freshman year—cut her season short. Her decision to enter the transfer portal on Tuesday surprised fans. Where could she pay her next season of college ball?
Top Transfer Portal Landing Spots for Emma Risch
Following No. 3 seed Notre Dame’s Elite Eight loss to the TCU Horned Frogs, several key Irish players, including star Olivia Miles, entered the transfer portal, resulting in a gutted roster. The situation in South Bend got even worse when sophomore guard Emma Risch also signaled a departure.
BREAKING: Notre Dame’s Emma Risch has entered the transfer portal, sources told @On3sports.
The 6-1 sophomore averaged 5.7 ppg this season.
TRACKER: https://t.co/StsxDxjlYl pic.twitter.com/3rXpRuAhvB
— Talia Goodman (@TaliaGoodmanWBB) April 1, 2025
UConn Huskies
With superstar Paige Bueckers heading to the 2025 WNBA Draft, UConn has a gap in its backcourt. Given Geno Auriemma’s success with sharpshooters like Katie Lou Samuelson, Risch is a great fit.
Her size and court vision could make her a key player for the Huskies as they look to remain at the top of the Big East.
South Carolina Gamecocks
Dawn Staley’s team is a constant contender, and with their focus on guards, Risch’s sharp shooting could be a perfect addition to their lineup.
The Gamecocks frequently strengthen their roster through the portal, and after losing top players to the WNBA, they’d welcome a proven long-range shooter to boost their championship ambitions.
USC Trojans
Following an ACL injury in the second round of the Women’s NCAA Tournament, Trojans star JuJu Watkins is expected to miss some time to begin the season if she remains in college.
USC could pair Risch with her to form a deadly inside-outside combo. With Watkins recovering, Risch could shine as the Trojans’ go-to scorer. Her 42.1% three-point shooting would stretch defenses, making USC even more dangerous once Watkins returns.
Kentucky Wildcats
Kentucky had a strong 23-8 season under Kenny Brooks, but with key players like All-American Georgia Amoore leaving, they’ll need replacements.
Risch could fill the gap in the backcourt and lead alongside forward Clara Strack.
LSU Tigers
LSU has stayed strong with 31 wins in back-to-back seasons, but with key players like Aneesah Morrow and possibly Flau’jae Johnson leaving, changes are coming.
MORE TRANSFER PORTAL LANDING SPOTS: NOTRE DAME G OLIVIA MILES
If Johnson departs, Risch could be a great addition, providing a sharp shooting threat and boosting LSU’s offense alongside Mikaylah Williams.
With her scoring ability and playmaking skills, Risch is a valuable asset for any team. As she enters the transfer portal, expect plenty of schools to compete for her, making her one of the top players to watch this offseason.
Don’t miss a moment of March Madness! Download your 2025 NCAA Tournament printable bracket and stay on top of every game, matchup, and Cinderella story. Get yours now!
