Virginia Connected to Former 4-Star Forward in College Basketball Transfer Portal

However, that doesn't mean the Cavaliers aren't trying. In fact, On3's Joe Tipton reports that Virginia is one of several teams hosting former LMU Lions forward Jalen Shelley.

"The 6-foot-8 sophomore arrived at Virginia on Wednesday evening and will depart Charlottesville on Friday," Tipton wrote. "He will then head straight to Texas A&M to visit the Aggies through Saturday, before making his final stop in Nashville to see Vanderbilt from Sunday through Monday."

Shelley began his career with the USC Trojans as a four-star recruit out of the 2024 recruiting class. However, after just one season, he transferred to LMU, where he put up solid numbers as a sophomore.

Shelley started 25 games for the Lions, averaging 13.7 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.7 assists, all of which are career highs. He also shot 45.7% from the field and 28.7% from beyond the three-point line.

Now on the open market, it's not a major surprise he's garnering attention from Virginia, Texas A&M and Vanderbilt. On3 Industry Rankings list him as the No. 29 small forward and the No. 197 player to enter the transfer portal.

With several options available, the Cavaliers hope to make their first splash in this year's transfer cycle. With two more years of eligibility, Shelley could help boost Virginia's roster going into its second season under Odom.