Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Historic College Basketball Program Reportedly After USC Transfer Desmond Claude

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Joshua Rosenblum | Last updated May 6, 2025 3:27 PM ET

In a stunning recent development in the college basketball transfer market, USC Trojans guard Desmond Claude has caught the attention of one of the most historic programs in the Duke Blue Devils.

In a tweet shared by ESPN’s Jeff Borzello on Monday afternoon, Claude is hearing from Gonzaga, Duke, Virginia, Ole Miss, and Kentucky, with Duke reaching out over the weekend.

This news has sparked excitement among fans as Claude, a 6-foot-6 junior, searches for a new team capable of making a deep tournament run.

Claude, who averaged 15.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game during his lone season with the Trojans in 2024-25, earned All-Big Ten Honorable Mention honors after transferring from the Xavier Musketeers.

Known for his physicality and playmaking, he’s seeking a program with a proven backcourt mate to share responsibilities and a roster built for March Madness success.

The Blue Devils, with its storied history of 5 national championships and 17 Final Four appearances, could be an ideal fit under head coach Jon Scheyer, who has continued the program’s tradition of excellence since taking over for Mike Krzyzewski.

The Blue Devils’ interest in Claude comes as no surprise, as they often target high-impact transfers to bolster their roster. Meanwhile, other storied programs like Kentucky and Gonzaga, who are also known for deep tournament runs, remain in the race.

Claude’s decision will likely hinge on which team offers the best combination of backcourt synergy and championship potential, making this transfer saga one to watch in the coming weeks.

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

More must-reads: