Two Things Pitt Should Target in the Transfer Portal

The transfer portal for college basketball players opens April 7. Already, the Pitt Panthers have seen three players decide they will enter it. Sophomore Brandin Cummings, freshman Roman Siulepa and redshirt sophomore Papa Kante have made it public that they are intending to enter the portal.

Just because those players are in the portal doesn't guarantee they will leave, as seen by Kante entering it last year and then returning for another season. But, Pitt could also see more players enter the portal as April 7 approaches.

Whether more players leave or not, there are definitely areas that could be replenished for next season.

Size

The Panthers struggled with size during the 2025-26 season. Transfer center Dishon Jackson missed the entire season with health issues, followed by Papa Kante getting season-ending surgery. This left just senior Cam Corhen and freshman Kieran Mullen as the only centers left. Mullen was originally supposed to redshirt, according to head coach Jeff Capel.

Corhen was huge for the Panthers, playing over 30 minutes a game as a big man. With Corhen graduating and Kante in the portal, this leaves a lot to be desired for the Panthers. Siuelpa, who stands at 6-foot-6 with a big frame, possibly leaving doesn't bode well either.

Jackson should qualify for a medical redshirt if he's able to play again next season. Still, a healthy center who can be an effective starter from day one should be a goal to obtain through the portal. One that could space the floor wouldn't hurt either.

It would be great to see Mullen stay on the team and in the starting spot one day. But, for the start of next season, there are safer options in the portal.

Pitt center Cam Corhe — Feb 14, 2026; Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA; Pittsburgh Panthers forward Cameron Corhen (2) looks to pass as North Carolina Tar Heels guard Luka Bogavac (44) and forward Zayden High (1) defen in the first half at Dean E. Smith Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Experienced Point Guard

Assuming they stay another season, Pitt has some promising guards on the roster with the likes of Omari Witherspoon and Macari Moore. Still, fifth-year senior Damarco Minor came in as a transfer and showed the benefits of experience. Minor led the team in assists and hit multiple game winners.

With Minor graduating and Cummings entering the transfer portal, a point guard who can be trusted is going to be much needed for the team, especially on offense.

While the team's offense improved near the end, it was still very stagnant for most of the season. The offense would look even worse without a point guard who knew how to pass and make quick reads. A guard who could be relied on to put up at least ten points a game would also be a welcome addition.

Incoming Class

It's important to get these contributing transfers because Pitt has a great freshman class incoming to build around. This includes wing Anthony Felesi, forward Chase Foster, and shooting guard Jermal Jones.

These freshman give Pitt some talent in the two-through-four spots. It's why having experienced and contributing point guards and centers could make the freshman feel comfortable and elevate their game.

The Panthers are sticking with Capel for another season. This is his chance to build a competent team to prove he deserves the job.

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