The college basketball offseason is in full swing and USC Women’s Basketball finds itself navigating the ever-changing landscape of the transfer portal. Following their impressive Elite Eight run last season, the Trojans are experiencing significant roster movement that will reshape the team for the upcoming campaign.
With star player JuJu Watkins recovering from injury and several key contributors departing, head coach Lindsay Gottlieb faces crucial decisions ahead. The transfer portal activity has increased the stakes for USC as they look to maintain their status as a national contender while addressing roster gaps through strategic acquisitions.
Players Leaving USC (Transfer Portal)
Avery Howell
The freshman guard departs after an impactful first season where she averaged 7.5 points and 3 rebounds per game. Howell showcased her shooting ability by leading the team with a 39.9% success rate from beyond the arc. Through her promising performances in the NCAA Tournament, Howell has committed to Washington.
Kayleigh Heckel
Another freshman guard heading to the transfer portal, Heckel contributed 6.1 points per game while averaging 16.9 minutes on the floor. She stepped up notably after Watkins’ injury during tournament play. In her announcement, Heckel stated entering the portal was “what is best for me and my Journey.”
Dominique Darius
The redshirt junior guard has entered the transfer portal after seeing limited playing time last season. Darius looks to find a program where she can make a greater on-court impact after her time with the Women of Troy.
Aaliyah Gayles
Redshirt sophomore guard Gayles has committed to Utah State after entering the portal. She appeared in 15 games last season, totaling 69 minutes. Her move suggests a desire for increased playing time and a more prominent role on the court.
Players Joining USC (Transfer Portal)
Kara Dunn
The Trojans secured a significant addition in Dunn, a junior guard transferring from Georgia Tech. Standing 5-foot-11, she brings immediate experience and offensive firepower after leading the Yellow Jackets with 15.5 points per game last season. Dunn also contributed 5.8 rebounds per game and shot 35.4% from three-point range.
Dunn’s ball-handling skills and scoring ability both driving to the basket and in catch-and-shoot situations make her a valuable asset as USC addresses backcourt needs. Her arrival helps offset some of the departures and provides versatility to the roster.
Non-Transfer Portal Updates
Kiki Iriafen, the graduate forward, was selected fourth overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Washington Mystics, making USC basketball history as the first Trojan picked in the first round since 2004. Iriafen transferred to USC in 2024 after three years at Stanford and had a standout season averaging 18 points and 8.4 rebounds per game.
Rayah Marshall, described as the “heartbeat of the Women of Troy,” the senior center/forward was selected by the Los Angeles Sparks with the 28th overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Marshall led USC with 8.4 rebounds and 2.1 blocks during the season while also averaging 7.9 points and 2.4 assists per game.
Talia von Oelhoffen, the graduate guard who served as the team’s starting point guard, has completed her collegiate eligibility. Her court vision and playmaking abilities were crucial components of USC’s offensive system throughout their successful campaign.
Clarice Akunwafo, the senior reserve center, graduates after providing valuable depth in the frontcourt. Akunwafo was honored during Senior Day celebrations and leaves after contributing to the team’s interior rotation.
Jazzy Davidson, one of the most highly rated recruits in the class of 2025, represents a bright spot amid the roster turnover. Standing 6-foot-1, the versatile guard/forward from Clackamas High School in Oregon is ranked either No. 2 or No. 3 overall in her class. After committing in September 2024 and signing in November, she will join as a freshman for the 2025-26 season.
KEEP READING: Ole Miss Women’s Basketball Transfer Portal: Latest Updates on Who’s In and Who’s Out
Watkins’ timeline for return will greatly impact the team’s ceiling next season. Coach Gottlieb, who’s sent five players to the WNBA now during her time, must focus on developing returning players while trying to add more transfer portal options. Despite it all, the Trojans’ foundation remains intact and they look to build off their Elite Eight run last season.
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