Clemson Basketball Strengthens 2025-26 Roster with Six Transfers; Football Lands Key Recruits as Former RB Enters Portal
Clemson basketball has made a major splash ahead of the 2025–26 season, dramatically enhancing its roster with the addition of six new players from the NCAA transfer portal. Headlining the class is Nick Davidson, a standout forward from Nevada who brings proven scoring and rebounding ability. Meanwhile, the football program also made significant recruiting strides with several new commitments, even as a former running back chose to enter the portal.
On the hardwood, Davidson arrives at Clemson after an impressive 2024–25 campaign in which he averaged 15.8 points and 6.5 rebounds per game for the Wolf Pack. The 6-foot-8 forward has drawn praise for his versatility, mid-range touch, and ability to create mismatches. His presence is expected to immediately elevate Clemson’s frontcourt and provide a consistent scoring option for head coach Brad Brownell’s squad.
Davidson is just one piece of a broader recruiting puzzle that Clemson has assembled through the portal. Alongside him are five other transfer additions whose names have yet to be publicly confirmed but are reportedly experienced players with Power Five and mid-major backgrounds. The incoming class addresses key areas of need—especially size, depth, and shooting—and reflects the Tigers’ aggressive approach in reshaping their roster to compete in a deep ACC.
Coach Brownell emphasized the importance of experience and maturity when discussing the new additions. “We wanted guys who are ready to step in, contribute, and elevate the culture of this team. The transfer portal allows us to find that balance between talent and leadership, and we believe we’ve done that,” Brownell said in a recent interview.
While basketball headlines the transfer activity, Clemson football also made recruiting news this week by securing commitments from several promising players. Among them are Jeremiah Alexander, a highly-rated linebacker; Will Heldt, a tough and physical lineman; and Tristan Smith, a versatile athlete expected to contribute on both sides of the ball. All three prospects have drawn interest from SEC and Big Ten programs but chose Clemson for its developmental track record and winning culture.
These football commitments come at a time of transition for the Tigers, as head coach Dabo Swinney continues to build a class that aligns with the program’s long-term vision. Alexander, in particular, is seen as a key get for the Tigers, offering athleticism and football IQ that could make him an early contributor.
However, not all movement was inbound. Former Clemson running back Marquise Henderson has officially entered the transfer portal, signaling the end of his time in the orange and purple. Henderson, who saw limited action last season, is now exploring opportunities where he may earn more playing time. His departure opens up depth chart space in a talented Clemson backfield, but also highlights the ever-evolving nature of roster management in modern college football.
Altogether, Clemson’s activity across both basketball and football reflects a program that is not just reloading, but retooling. With strategic additions and bold moves, the Tigers are clearly aiming to remain contenders on multiple fronts heading into 2025 and beyond.
