Aaron Bradshaw Transfer Portal: Memphis Tops Next Team List After Securing Visit

Aaron Bradshaw, a 7-foot-1 center, has entered the transfer portal after one season with Ohio State. He previously played his freshman year at Kentucky. Over his two collegiate seasons, Bradshaw has averaged 5.4 points and 3.0 rebounds per game. Now, attention turns to his next destination. Several high-major programs are showing interest, but Memphis might offer the best combination of development, opportunity, and exposure for the former five-star recruit.

Memphis Might Be Best For Bradshaw’s Development

Bradshaw has scheduled an official visit with Memphis, which could be an excellent fit for a player looking to take his game to the next level.

Head coach Penny Hardaway has a penchant for developing big men and has already had three centers picked in the first round of the NBA Draft since 2020. Bradshaw could follow in the footsteps of alumni like James Wiseman, Precious Achiuwa, and Jalen Duren, who used Memphis as a stepping stone to the NBA.

Hardaway also has proven that he can turn transfer portal players into key contributors with PJ Haggerty, Dain Dainja, Kendric Davis and DeAndre Williams all succeeding under the Memphis head coach.

Kentucky Return Isn’t Out Of The Question

Yes, Bradshaw already left Lexington once. But the situation has changed.

This is now Mark Pope’s team. Entering his second year, Pope is reshaping the roster and identity of the program. Turnover has been a problem for the Wildcats and they are going to be in need of a big man next season. Bradshaw might be a handy piece in the frontcourt and a player that Pope can develop into more than just a rotational guy.

He already knows the campus, the facilities, and much of the support staff. Familiarity matters when you’re making your second move in 12 months.

Pope has shown he wants to run modern, spacing-friendly lineups. Bradshaw’s mobility fits that kind of scheme and his ability to catch lobs could help open up space on the perimeter for his teammates.

Tennessee Could Also Be In The Mix

Tennessee is coming off another strong season under Rick Barnes, and the Volunteers are in the market for size and athleticism in the frontcourt.

With top big man Igor Milicic Jr. graduating along with the Volunteers top two scorers, there is plenty of opportunity to go around.

Bradshaw would bring length, agility, and a shot-blocking presence to Knoxville. Tennessee’s defensive-first identity could also help him grow into a more complete player, especially on that end of the floor. While Barnes is known for a tough, structured system, that discipline could be exactly what Bradshaw needs to elevate his game and draft stock.

Playing for a top-25 team in the SEC spotlight would also give Bradshaw the visibility he needs heading into his junior year.

Other Potential Destinations

Here are some other potential fits for Bradshaw next season.

Georgia Bulldogs

Georgia is fresh off of an NCAA Tournament berth under head coach Mike White but the Bulldogs lost some key players to the transfer portal after losing in the first round. Four players have already entered the portal, including second-leading scorer Silas Demary Jr., who is headed to UConn.

Top scorer Asa Newell is expected to be a lottery pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, leaving plenty of opportunity for Bradshaw to earn playing time at an up-and-coming program.

Bradshaw has never played more than 17 minutes per game in his NCAA career and playing time will likely be high on his list of priorities as he evaluates his next destination. With a strong developmental system and a clear path to playing time, Athens could be a smart and strategic move.

Utah Utes

Utah has lost several players to the portal and could be looking for additional rim protection and size heading into next season.

Bradshaw’s length and athleticism would add a new dimension to the Utes’ frontcourt and help replace Ezra Ausar, the team’s second-leading scorer.

Utah also offers a less pressurized environment, which may appeal to a player looking to focus on his development and reset his trajectory.

Arkansas Razorbacks

The Calipari connection can’t be ignored. He recruited Bradshaw out of high school and knows his game better than most.

With Arkansas flipping its roster once again, Calipari is likely to bring in familiar faces, and Bradshaw could follow the Rob Dillingham route: reunite with Cal, showcase his tools, and play for draft positioning.

The risk, however, is that Arkansas is about to get crowded. Calipari’s system has historically favored guards, which could mean limited touches for frontcourt players like Bradshaw.

Bradshaw’s decision will likely hinge on factors such as coaching relationships and playing time opportunities. In that regard, Kentucky and Arkansas lead the way, but it would be unwise to rule out schools like Rutgers and Louisville just yet.