During his opening statement in his introductory press conference, Texas head coach Sean Miller established the identity his basketball program will have by elaborating on what is to be expected within his team’s style of play. Using his history and the vision he has set out for Texas basketball, I put together a list of realistic/best options for Texas so far in this transfer portal window.
Point Guard:
"You can play fast, and you can also play smart." These were the words Miller used to describe the style of play he plans to bring to Texas. While this philosophy applies to everyone on the roster, the point guard must be at the forefront of the offense, fully embodying this mindset. That means pushing the ball in transition while ensuring ball security to avoid putting the team in difficult situations.
5. Malachi Smith (Dayton):
A 6'0" redshirt junior from the Bronx, New York, Smith could be a valuable addition to the Longhorns' depth. He excels at moving without the ball, ranking in the 94th percentile in catch-and-shoot situations, and is solid in transition, posting 1.07 points per possession. Smith also elevates his teammates, recording a 38.3% assist rate and shooting 38.3% from beyond the arc. Last season at Dayton, he averaged 10.4 PPG, 2.9 RPG, and 5.3 APG.
4. Dedan Thomas Jr. (UNLV):
The Las Vegas, Nevada native is an excellent fit for Miller’s offensive system. The 6'1" guard is arguably the best in the portal when it comes to taking care of the ball, posting an impressive assist rate of 28.3%, a key trait for any point guard in a Miller offense. The only reason Thomas Jr. isn’t ranked higher on this list is his defense. While it's not bad, some might argue it’s not quite where it needs to be for a point guard in Miller’s system. Thomas averaged 15.6 PPG, 2.0 RPG, and 4.7 APG at UNLV this past season.
3. Melvin Council Jr. (St. Bonaventure):
A guard from Rochester, New York, Council Jr. is known for being an all-around player. He posted an impressive stat line of 14.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, and 4.1 APG last season and can excel at both the point guard and shooting guard positions. Council Jr. performed well in transition, ranking in the 69th percentile, and when it came to creating his own shot, he was exceptional, ranking in the 90th percentile for isolation plays. Overall, I believe Council would be a great fit for Sean Miller’s style of play while also bringing a unique element to the table that few guards in today’s college basketball scene can offer.
2. Tayton Conerway (Troy):
Conerway, a 6'3" point guard from Burleson, Texas, possesses all the qualities needed to not only succeed at the college level but also to make an impact at the next level. The senior guard is outstanding in the half-court on both ends, posting an OBPM rating of 4.0 and a DBPM rating of 4.4. For reference, of 209 players in the SEC, Conerway would have ranked in the top 35 for OBPM and the top 10 for DBPM in the SEC this season. The only reason he isn't ranked number one on my list is his inefficiency in transition. This past season, Conerway posted a 0.85 points per possession in transition, ranking in the 26th percentile. Given Miller's offensive style, I'm unsure if it's the best fit for him. However, aside from that, Conerway is an incredible talent, ranking in the 75th percentile as a ball-screen handler and posting a 36.7% assist rate. He averaged 14.2 PPG, 4.6 RPG, and 4.8 APG last season.
1. Nick Boyd (San Diego State):
From Garnerville, New York, Boyd stands at 6'3" and excels at making his teammates better while taking care of the ball efficiently. His ability to push the pace in transition only adds to his value. Boyd is a great fit for Texas and Sean Miller's system. The senior guard averaged 13.2 PPG, 3.9 RPG, and 4.0 APG, while also posting 1.12 points per possession in transition. With these stats, Boyd becomes a key asset for Sean Miller and his system.
Shooting Guard:
Miller targets wings who can improve ball movement, knock down perimeter shots, and defend multiple positions. Versatility is key here, as Miller’s system thrives with two-way guards who can switch defensively and play within the team’s offensive flow. The selected targets all bring a mix of shooting, playmaking, and defensive intensity.
5. Jimmie Williams (USF):
A redshirt sophomore from Solon, Ohio, Williams could be an underrated addition to the Longhorn roster. The 6’5” guard is well-rounded and can knock down shots from beyond the arc, shooting 40% from three this past season. While Williams may be a developmental project, he has the skills to make an immediate impact if needed. Last season at the University of South Florida, he averaged 7.5 PPG, 2.6 RPG, and 1.2 APG.
4. Tucker Devries (West Virginia):
Tucker Devries brings a lot to the table, but the most noticeable skill is his ability to shoot and when I say shoot, I mean he can light up the arena. In catch-and-shoot situations, Devries posted an 86% effective field goal percentage, ranking in the 100th percentile. When spotting up, he ranked in the 95th percentile. These numbers make Devries stand out, no matter which team he chooses. The downside, however, is his inefficiency in transition, where he ranks in the 15th percentile. I’m curious whether he can improve in that area if he joins Miller’s Longhorns. Still, Texas needs a reliable shooter, and Devries is in a league of his own when it comes to that.
3. Devin Haid (Central Connecticut):
From Wooster, Ohio, Devin Haid is someone I believe can make an impact at the next level. His style of play aligns perfectly with what Texas looks for in this position. Haid rebounds at a high level, can guard multiple positions thanks to his size, and is reliable on the offensive end. While some may question the level of competition he faced at Central Connecticut, I believe in the saying, “If he can play, he can play,” and Devin Haid can definitely play. The 6’5” guard averaged 14.2 PPG, 5.6 RPG, and 2.1 APG for the Blue Devils.
2. Silas Demary Jr. (Georgia):
A 6’5” sophomore guard from Raleigh, North Carolina, Demary is a force on both ends of the floor. With a 2.7 OBPM rating and a 2.5 DBPM rating, Demary is as well-rounded as they come at the shooting guard position. Add in his ability to push the ball in transition and take care of the ball, and it’s clear that he’s a perfect fit for Sean Miller’s system. The sophomore guard averaged 13.5 PPG, 3.9 RPG, and 3.5 APG this past season in Athens.
1. Ryan Conwell (Xavier):
It’s no surprise that Conwell is on this list, let alone at the top of this position. Having played under Miller at Xavier this past season, Conwell is already familiar with Miller’s system. Beyond his connection with the Texas head coach, he’s a phenomenal scorer who takes care of the ball, posting a 12.5% turnover rate — an impressive stat given his high usage at Xavier. Conwell averaged 16.5 PPG, 2.7 RPG, and 2.5 APG, while shooting 41% from three.
Small Forward:
Texas needs dynamic wings who can run the floor, defend at a high level, and contribute in transition. Ideally, these players should have positional size and athleticism to complement Miller’s defensive schemes. With Miller’s history of developing high-impact wings, the targets listed fit the mold of players who can stretch the floor, finish at the rim, and contribute on both ends.
5. Jaden Henley (UNLV):
From Ontario, California, Henley is an underrated defensive player and a maestro in the pick-and-roll game, ranking in the 95th percentile as a ball screen handler. However, he’s not as efficient in transition, posting just 0.83 points per possession and ranking in the 23rd percentile in fast break efficiency. Despite this, Henley’s defensive prowess and ability to create his own shot make him an enticing prospect worth monitoring. If he can improve his transition efficiency under Miller, he’s definitely a name to watch moving forward.
4. Isaia Howard (Drake):
From Plattsburgh, Montana, Howard is a young talent with the potential to blossom into something special. The freshman from Drake is an excellent defender, posting a 3.6 DBPM rating, and takes care of the ball at a high rate. Combine that with his strong transition play, and it’s hard for Texas to overlook a player like him. While his inexperience may give some pause, I don’t think it will be as big of a concern as others might think.
3. Lajae Jones (St, Bonaventure):
The perfect off-ball player anyone would love to have on their team, Jones stands at 6’7” and excels as a defender, shooter, and in transition. With three more years of eligibility, Jones is ready to make an immediate impact and has the potential to develop into something special. Given Miller’s emphasis on taking care of the ball, Jones is an ideal fit for his system on both ends of the floor. Last season, Jones averaged 10.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, and shot 37.9% from three.
2. Marquel Sutton (Omaha):
A 6’9” forward from Tulsa, Oklahoma, Sutton is the definition of an athlete. He was named Summit League Player of the Year this past season at Omaha, averaging 18.9 PPG, 7.9 RPG, and 1.2 APG, which clearly shows why he earned such an honor. From a schematic standpoint, Sutton checks most boxes for the typical interchangeable forward in a Miller system. He ranks in the 77th percentile in transition, is an elite rebounder, and embraces contact when finishing around the rim. The only reason he isn’t number one on this list is his inconsistency on defense—he posted a -1.7 DBPM rating. For context, Sutton’s defensive rating would have ranked him 197th out of 209 players in the SEC this past season. Overall, the Summit League Player of the Year is still a talent worth pursuing, and he checks a lot of boxes for Texas that some players can’t.
1. Dailyn Swain (Xavier):
Just like Conwell, Swain not only played for Miller last year but committed to his Musketeers in 2023. Swain is a phenomenal defender posting a 3.5 DBPM rating and is as versatile as they come on the defensive end of the ball. As far as what he brings on offense, Swain’s a slasher like player who can hit the open man when needed and can crash the glass efficiently as well. He understands what it takes to execute in a Miller offense and brings a certain level of intensity that gets the entire team matching his energy and considering his ties to his former coach I’d expect Texas to be in a good spot in terms of landing Swain.
Power Forward:
Miller prefers mobile, active forwards who can rebound, switch defensively, and contribute offensively without disrupting spacing. Texas is looking for a player who can provide physicality inside while also being capable of making plays on the perimeter. These targets were chosen based on their rebounding ability, defensive versatility, and offensive upside in an up-tempo system.
5. Nick Davidson (Nevada):
A forward from Mission Viejo, California, who has Texas in his top 5 schools, Davidson would be a great addition to the Longhorns and the system they’ll be implementing this season. A stretch four, Davidson can dominate inside the paint, shooting just over 70% at the rim at Nevada this past season, while also hitting 37% from beyond the arc. He’s a solid defender, posting a 1.2 DBPM rating, but the only reason he isn’t higher on this list is his defensive skill compared to the players ranked above him. Last season at Nevada, Davidson averaged 15.8 PPG, 6.5 RPG, and 2.8 APG.
4. Taylor Bol Bowen (Florida State):
The sophomore forward from Jericho, Vermont, is a marksman from deep, making him a consistent threat to defenses with his ability to stretch the floor. Bowen is also a solid defender, posting a 2.6 DBPM and shooting 41% from beyond the arc this past season with the Seminoles. While he ranks in the 50th percentile in transition, there’s room for improvement, and with a developer like Miller, I can see his game taking the next step at Texas. Bowen averaged 8.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 1.5 BPG at Florida State this past season.
3. Malik Reneau (Indiana):
Reneau is an excellent fit for Texas under Miller due to his versatility and strong two-way potential. Standing 6'8", Reneau has the size and skill to contribute both offensively and defensively in Miller’s system. He excels in pick-and-roll situations, can stretch the floor, and is a reliable rebounder. With Miller’s emphasis on defensive discipline and smart, efficient offense, Reneau’s well-rounded game makes him a natural fit to help solidify Texas’ frontcourt and provide immediate impact. Reneau averaged 13.3 PPG, 5.5 RPG, and 2.0 APG this past season at Indiana.
2. Mackenzie Mgbako (Indiana):
From Gladstone, New Jersey, Mgbako is a true two-way forward who can score at multiple levels of the game. Mgbako is a perfect fit for Texas under Miller thanks to his combination of size, skill, and defensive versatility. Standing at 6'8", Mgbako can play multiple positions, making him a key asset in Miller's system that values flexibility and two-way players. His ability to score both inside and from the perimeter, along with his strong rebounding and defensive presence, aligns perfectly with the balance Miller seeks in his roster. Mgbako’s skill set makes him a dynamic addition who can contribute immediately to Texas’ success.
1.Alvaro Folueiras (Robert Morris):
A stretch four who is up to any task, Folueiras has the skill set to dominate in any area of the game. Posting a 4.9 OBPM rating and a 3.5 DBPM rating, Folueiras is a menace at both ends. He’s also one of the best offensive and defensive rebounders in the country, has an ability to be a playmaker at a high level and knocks down shots at an efficient clip from beyond the arc while also ranking in the 81st percentile in transition. Folueiras has the potential to be a name for the wooden award watch list in my opinion. He averaged 14.1 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 3.2 APG while shooting 41% from three at Robert Morris this past season.
5. Cam Manyawu (Drake):
From Kansas City, Missouri, Manywawu is an intriguing prospect with significant upside for Texas under Miller. Standing at 6'9", Manywawu brings a strong mix of athleticism and versatility to the table. Known for his solid defensive abilities and length with a 3.3 DBPM rating, he can guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset on that end of the floor. Offensively, he’s a capable scorer with a well-rounded game, and his potential to develop into a consistent playmaker fits well in Miller’s system. With time and development, Manywawu has the tools to become a key contributor for Texas, adding depth and defensive stability to the roster however, his size is what puts him below the rest in this position. The Sophomore averaged 7.1 PPG, 5.3 RPG, and 1.3 SPG at Drake this past season.
4. Nick Pringle (South Carolina):
Pringle is a high-energy big who could be a game-changing addition to Texas under Miller. Standing at 6'10”, Pringle excels in the paint, using his athleticism and toughness to dominate on both ends of the floor. He’s an exceptional rebounder and shot-blocker, ranking among the best in his class for rim protection and securing boards. His ability to impact the game without needing the ball makes him a perfect fit for Miller’s system, which emphasizes defense, hustle, and efficiency. With his relentless motor and growing offensive game, Pringle has the potential to be a key contributor and a force in the Longhorns' frontcourt. Pringle averaged 9.5 PPG, and 6.3 RPG with South Carolina this past season.
3. Magoon Gwath (San Diego State):
Gwath is a promising prospect with the potential to make a significant impact at Texas. From Euless, Texas, the seven-footer offers versatility as a center, capable of contributing both offensively and defensively. His athleticism allows him to excel in transition, and his length makes him a strong presence in the paint. While still refining his skill set, Gwath's upside is clear, especially in a system like Miller's that values both defensive effort and smart offensive play. With development, Gwath has the tools to become a key contributor for Texas, offering a blend of size, mobility, and potential. The redshirt freshman averaged 8.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 2.6 BPG at San Diego State.
2. Quincy Ballard (Wichita State):
From Syracuse, New York, Ballard is a dynamic center who could be a great fit for Texas under Sean Miller. Standing at 6’11”, Ballard brings elite rim protection and an impressive rebounding presence. His size and athleticism make him a force in the paint, both defensively and offensively. While he may still be refining his offensive game, his shot-blocking ability and defensive instincts make him a potential game-changer for the Longhorns. With the right development, Ballard has the potential to become a dominant presence in the paint, providing Texas with a strong defensive anchor for years to come.
1. Christoph Tilly (Santa Clara):
From Berlin, Germany, Tilly is efficient on both ends of the ball. Posting a 3.2 OBPM rating and a 2.8 DBPM rating, Tilly wreaks havoc at all times. Tilly is a versatile forward who can make an immediate impact at Texas. Standing at 6’8”, Tilly brings a unique combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ that fits well into Miller’s system. He’s an efficient scorer, capable of knocking down shots from deep and finishing around the rim. His rebounding and defensive ability also stand out, making him a well-rounded player who can contribute on both ends of the floor. With his experience and potential, Tilly could be a key piece for Texas, adding depth and versatility to the frontcourt while developing into a strong presence under Miller’s guidance. Tilly averaged 12.5 PPG, 4.9 RPG, and 1.9 APG at Santa Clara this past season.
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