College Basketball
Donovan Dent Transfer Portal: Is UNC or Kentucky the Perfect Fit for his Next Team?
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Get to know David Evans betterPublished28 Mar 2025
Donovan Dent, the standout point guard from New Mexico, has entered the transfer portal, and blue-blood programs are lining up for his services. Dent, the 2024-25 Mountain West Player of the Year, averaged 20.4 points and 6.4 assists per game while shooting 40.9% from three. Now, North Carolina and Kentucky have emerged as frontrunners to land the highly sought-after guard.
Dent Heading to UNC?
UNC’s need for a guard skyrocketed after Elliot Cadeau announced his departure, leaving a glaring hole in the backcourt. Head coach Hubert Davis is prioritizing an experienced playmaker, and Dent fits the bill perfectly.
Why Dent Makes Sense for UNC
- Dent’s ability to create shots, facilitate in transition, and score at all three levels makes him an ideal replacement for Cadeau. His high basketball IQ and leadership would stabilize UNC’s backcourt and give them a proven scorer to replace RJ Davis.
NIL and Exposure
- Playing at UNC offers unmatched exposure and lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. The chance to compete in the ACC and showcase his skills on a bigger stage could sway Dent toward Chapel Hill.
Dent A Perfect Fit at Kentucky?
Since taking over at Kentucky, Mark Pope has been aggressive in reshaping the roster. Pope’s system, which emphasizes perimeter shooting and ball movement, suits Dent’s style of play.
Why Dent Fits at Kentucky
- Pope is seeking an experienced lead guard to anchor his backcourt, and Dent’s combination of scoring, court vision, and defensive toughness fits the mold. Dent could thrive in Pope’s system, which relies on a playmaking guard to orchestrate the offense.
NBA Pipeline and NIL Potential
- Kentucky remains one of the top destinations for guards looking to boost their NBA draft stock. With the Wildcats’ rich tradition and powerful NIL infrastructure, Dent would step into a situation where success on the court and financial growth off it go hand in hand.
Other Suitors Lurking, But UNC and Kentucky Lead Chase for Dent
Other teams in the race for Dent include:
- Gonzaga
- Texas Tech
- UCLA
- Xavier
- USC
This is a player with a lot of options, but can the lure of staying on the West Coast help teams like UCLA or USC? Alternatively, will a reunion with Richard Pitino in Xavier sway Dent’s decision?
As of now, this looks like a two-team race between UNC and Kentucky, with both programs offering compelling reasons for Dent to join. His final decision will likely hinge on system fit, potential role, and NIL considerations.
