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Washington State Forward Cedric Coward Announces Transfer Portal Decision

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Blayne Gilmer | Last updated Apr 28, 2025 9:49 PM ET

Former Washington State transfer Cedric Coward has announced his commitment to Duke, choosing the Blue Devils over several high-major programs.

The 6-foot-6 wing was a player of significant interest for Gonzaga, given his Pacific Northwest roots and natural fit with the Zags’ roster needs. However, despite Mark Few and his staff showing serious interest, Coward ultimately decided to head across the country to Durham.

Coward’s ties to the region, along with his proven ability to score at multiple levels, made him a top target for Gonzaga during this portal cycle. With only eight scholarship players currently projected for the 2025-2026 season, the Zags are in critical need of adding a versatile guard or wing who can contribute immediately. Coward’s size, defensive versatility, and offensive efficiency would have fit seamlessly into Gonzaga’s system, particularly with the team aiming to reload for another deep postseason run.

NEWS: Washington State guard Cedric Coward has announced he’s committed to Duke.

Coward is a 6-foot-6 guard out of Fresno, California who played two seasons at Eastern Washington before playing this season at Washington State.

He averaged 17.7PPG, 7.0RPG and 3.7APG in only 6… pic.twitter.com/6AdN5lUqFn
— Sam Kayser (@247HSHoops) April 28, 2025

Originally beginning his college career at Division III Willamette before blossoming into an All-Big Sky performer at Eastern Washington, Coward’s path to prominence has been unique. After transferring to Washington State, he made an immediate impact before a shoulder injury shortened his season. His strong production in limited action — showcasing a combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking — only heightened the interest from programs like Gonzaga looking for ready-made contributors.

Now, with Coward off the board and set to join Jon Scheyer’s Duke roster, Gonzaga will continue its search for a guard/wing with size, scoring instincts, and the ability to handle a significant role. The Zags remain active in the transfer portal market, seeking to bolster a roster that, while talented, still needs depth to sustain the program’s high standards heading into the 2025-2026 campaign.

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

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