South Carolina Gamecocks: Navigating the Transfer Portal Shuffle
The South Carolina Gamecocks are experiencing a significant offseason shift as they prepare to lose their third player to the NCAA transfer portal. Jordan Butler, the towering 7-footer, is set to enter the portal when it opens on April 7, joining teammates Elijah Strong and Eli Ellis in seeking new opportunities.
Butler, who made his way to South Carolina from Missouri before the 2024-25 season, has been a notable presence on the court. This past season, he appeared in 25 games, starting in four, and averaged 2.8 points and 1.8 rebounds per game. His standout performance came against Presbyterian, where he dropped 11 points, showcasing glimpses of his potential.
A former four-star prospect, Butler's basketball journey is deeply rooted in South Carolina. He played high school ball at Christ Church under his father, John Butler, and was instrumental in securing state championships in 2021 and 2023.
His impressive senior year stats-21.4 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.4 blocks, and 1.2 assists per game-earned him the Class A Player of the Year title. Basketball talent runs in the family, as his mother, Casie, also played for the Gamecocks.
As the Gamecocks look ahead, head coach Lamont Paris is set to return for his fifth season. Paris, who led the team to an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2024, is now tasked with rebuilding after two challenging seasons and just six SEC wins.
Here's a look at the current roster situation for the 2025-26 season:
Out of Eligibility:
- Eli Sparkman, G
- Kobe Knox, G
- Meechie Johnson, G
- Mike Sharavjamts, G
- Myles Stute, G
- Nordin Kapic, F
With Remaining Eligibility:
- Abu Yarmah, G
- Cam Scott, G
- Christ Essandoko, F
- EJ Walker, F
- Grant Polk, G
- Hayden Assemian, F
Entering the Portal:
- Eli Ellis, G
- Elijah Strong, F
- Jordan Butler, F
As the transfer portal opens, the Gamecocks will need to strategize effectively to fill these gaps and build a competitive squad for the upcoming season. The next few weeks will be crucial in shaping the future of South Carolina basketball.