College Basketball

Yohan Traore Transfer Portal: Arkansas Most Likely Land Spot, UNC A Possibility?

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By
David Evans
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David Evans Sports Editor

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Published15 Apr 2025

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Arkansas has emerged as a contender for former UC Santa Barbara, Auburn, and most recently, SMU forward Yohan Traore, who has re-entered the portal for the third time. The 6’10” France native has transferred multiple times, but programs still see value in his size, experience, and flexibility across the frontcourt.

Arkansas Basketball Chasing Traore

The Razorbacks, now led by John Calipari, seem to be in the mix for every major name in the transfer portal. With Zvonimir Ivišić headed to Illinois, there’s still a need for reliable frontcourt depth. Jonas Aidoo and Adou Thiero are expected to anchor the interior, but Arkansas could use another experienced body who can give solid minutes without being a liability.

Traore doesn’t project as a starter in Fayetteville, but he fits a clear need. Arkansas needs length, toughness, and foul insurance for a long SEC grind. He’s played in different systems and has shown flashes of high-level skill. If Calipari wants to go big or switch looks mid-game, having a player like Traore gives him flexibility.

North Carolina Still a Possibility For Traore?

UNC has also been linked to Traore, but the path to playing time is more complicated. They’ve already brought in Caleb Wilson (5-star freshman), Henri Veesaar (Arizona transfer), and Jarin Stevenson (Alabama transfer). That’s three frontcourt players with real claims to minutes. Add in Ven-Allen Lubin and it gets crowded quickly.

Carolina might still reach out, especially if there’s concern about youth or health, but the addition of Stevenson likely complicates things. Traore is looking for one final landing spot where he can contribute—UNC may not be able to offer that guarantee.

What Comes Next

Traore has yet to announce visits or narrow his list, but Arkansas is an obvious name to track. They’re aggressive in the portal, have minutes available, and can sell him on playing in meaningful games. Other schools will circle, but for now, the Hogs make sense.