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Gonzaga Top 3 Finalist for Elite Scoring Transfer Portal Guard

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andy Patton | Last updated May 23, 2025 12:46 AM ET

The Gonzaga Bulldogs are among the three remaining finalists for USC transfer guard Desmond Claude, according to a report from Isaac Trotter and Travis Branham of 247Sports.

Alabama and Washington are the other two.

Claude is considered the third best available transfer by 247Sports, after averaging 15.8 points and 4.2 assists for USC under coach Eric Musselman last year. Claude's teammate last year with the Trojans - Wesley Yates - already committed to UW and would probably welcome having his running mate with him in Seattle.

Claude also had a visit scheduled at Alabama this past weekend, but it was abruptly postponed the day of, leaving the status there a bit murky.

Teaming up with @TravisBranham_ and @ebosshoops to unload a transfer portal notebook.

- Latest buzz on what's stirring with Desmond Claude, Tyon Grant-Foster, Ven-Allen Lubin & Rakease Passmore
- The waiting game continues with Jamir Watkins & PJ Haggertyhttps://t.co/ptCaUNsIt1
— Isaac Trotter (@Isaac__Trotter) May 22, 2025

The 6'6 guard spent two seasons at Xavier, breaking out as a sophomore by averaging 16.6 points and 3.2 assists. Claude's 6'6 frame gives him the physicality to finish around the rim, and he has been very consistent at getting himself to the line 5-6 times per game, converting at a 76.4% clip last year.

As a secondary creator/initiator in Mark Few's offense, Claude would bring size and significant scoring punch - much like Khalif Battle last year - but unfortunately it doesn't come with much floor spacing. Claude is a career 27.1% three point shooter, topping out at 30.7% last year on 2.3 attempts per game.

However, paired alongside new transfer Adam Miller - who shot 43% from deep last year - Claude's game could really thrive.

Gonzaga is also firmly in the mix for Grand Canyon transfer Tyon Grant-Foster, while being connected to Spanish guard Mario Saint-Supery and Charleston transfer guard AJ Smith as well.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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