Gonzaga's Top Transfer Portal Target Sets Visit to SEC School

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Blayne Gilmer | Last updated May 16, 2025 3:37 PM ET

Desmond Claude, one of the nation’s most coveted names still on the transfer market. However, Claude, a 6-foot-5, 210-pound guard with elite scoring ability, has now scheduled an official visit to Alabama this coming weekend, adding a new layer of competition to his recruitment that the Zags and other suitors cannot be thrilled about.

Claude, who entered into the portal following a standout season at USC, is exactly the kind of player Gonzaga needs to complete its roster for the 2025-26 season. Averaging 15.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game last season for the Trojans, Claude proved he can shoulder a scoring load while bringing versatility on both ends of the floor. His size and physicality allow him to play on or off the ball, something the Bulldogs desperately need as they look to fill the offensive void left by Khalif Battle, Ryan Nembhard, and Nolan Hickman.

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Gonzaga, Duke, and Florida had all been in communication with Claude upon him entering the transfer portal. Alabama is firmly in the mix, and that's concerning news for all the remaining contenders. Under Nate Oates, the Crimson Tide have become a recruiting juggernaut and a consistent Final Four threat. Oates has built a reputation for luring elite talent into his fast-paced, NBA-style system, and the chance to play in the rugged SEC for one of the nation’s hottest programs will undoubtedly appeal to Claude.

For Gonzaga, the challenge is clear: they need to get Claude on campus before the pull of Tuscaloosa or any other suitor becomes too strong. Mark Few and his staff have shown interest in Claude since he hit the portal, but as the process accelerates, the Zags will have to make their pitch sooner rather than later.

With four scholarships still open and an undeniable need for a dynamic scoring wing, Claude remains the type of player that could shift Gonzaga from a fringe top-15 team to a legitimate national contender. The hope now is that Gonzaga can secure an official visit, and fast, before Claude locks in on Alabama or decides to take his talents elsewhere.

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

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