Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Braden Huff has entered the transfer portal, marking a surprising turn in his collegiate basketball journey. Huff, a 6-foot-10 forward from Glenbard West High School in Illinois, had been anticipated to play a significant role for the Bulldogs in the upcoming seasons.

 

Huff’s decision to transfer comes after a redshirt freshman season where he showcased considerable potential. In his debut game against Yale, Huff came off the bench to score 19 points and grab nine rebounds, aiding the Bulldogs in overcoming a double-digit deficit. Throughout the season, he averaged 9.3 points and 3.4 rebounds per game, shooting 59.7% from the field and 34.8% from three-point range. His standout performances included a career-high 26 points in a win over San Diego and 25 points against Portland. These contributions earned him a spot on the West Coast Conference (WCC) All-Freshman Team.

 

Assistant coach Brian Michaelson had previously highlighted Huff and fellow sophomore Dusty Stromer as pivotal to the team’s future, stating, “Those are the two we’re building around… Huge pillars for what we’re doing now and really the guys that are gonna carry this program forward because we have so many seniors.”

 

Huff’s departure is unexpected, especially considering his trajectory within the program. His ability to stretch the floor with a reliable outside shot and his development on the defensive end were seen as assets for Gonzaga’s future campaigns. His decision to enter the transfer portal underscores the dynamic nature of college basketball, where player movements have become increasingly common.

 

As Huff explores new opportunities, Gonzaga will need to adjust its roster plans accordingly. The Bulldogs have been active in the transfer market, adding players like Michael Ajayi from Pepperdine and Khalif Battle from Arkansas to bolster their lineup.  Nevertheless, Huff’s transfer represents a significant shift, and his presence will be missed both on and off the court.

 

The college basketball community will be keenly watching Huff’s next steps, as his talent and potential make him a valuable addition to any program. Meanwhile, Gonzaga remains focused on maintaining its competitive edge as it prepares for the challenges of the upcoming season.