Oregon's Offseason Shifts with Kwame Evans' Transfer Decision Oregon forward Kwame Evans has officially decided to enter the NCAA transfer portal, marking a pivotal moment for the Ducks as they navigate the offseason following a challenging 2025-26 season. The move provides clarity for the program as it seeks to rebuild and reshape its roster amid lingering questions about its future. Evans, a former five-star recruit, shared his decision on social media, though the transfer portal will not officially open for two more weeks. Evans emerged as one of Oregon’s most dependable players during the 2025-26 season, suiting up in 30 of the Ducks’ 32 games. His consistency stood out in a year marred by injuries and inconsistency across the roster. Despite missing two contests due to minor injuries, Evans remained a key contributor, offering stability both in production and demeanor. Head coach Dana Altman frequently highlighted his resilience, noting how Evans maintained his focus and leadership even as the team struggled with setbacks. Statistically, Evans delivered his best season at Oregon, averaging 13.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. His shooting efficiency was a standout, with a 45.4% field goal percentage and a career-high 3-point accuracy. Evans also recorded 1.3 blocks and 1.0 steals per game, showcasing his all-around impact. His performance included standout efforts such as a 20-point, seven-rebound game against Washington on March 7, as well as four double-doubles against Oregon State, UC Davis, Rutgers, and Northwestern. Over three seasons with the Ducks, Evans has appeared in 101 games with 62 starts, averaging 8.7 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. However, his 2025-26 season felt like a breakthrough, as his confidence, aggressiveness, and leadership grew in tandem with his on-court contributions.#ncaa #transfer_portal #dana_altman #kwame_evans #oregon
Oregon guard Jackson Shelstad to enter transfer portal Junior guard Jackson Shelstad of the Oregon Ducks is set to enter the NCAA transfer portal, marking a significant loss for the program. The decision comes after Shelstad missed most of the 2025-26 season due to a recurring hand injury sustained during the preseason. Despite limited playing time, Shelstad contributed 15.6 points, 4.9 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game in the 12 contests he managed to play. Shelstad’s departure follows the exit of forward Kwame Evans Jr., who also entered the portal earlier this month. Both players were key contributors to Oregon’s roster over the past three seasons, including two NCAA tournament appearances where the Ducks exited in the Round of 32. Their exits signal the end of a promising 2023 recruiting class that coach Dana Altman had hoped to solidify. Mookie Cook and Jadrian "Bam" Tracey, two other members of that class, already left for other programs. The loss of Shelstad, who was named third-team All-Big Ten in 2024-25 and a Pac-12 All-Freshman honoree in 2023-24, further complicates Oregon’s rebuilding efforts. The Ducks endured their worst season under Altman’s 16-year tenure, finishing with a 12-20 record and failing to reach 20 wins for the first time in program history. Shelstad’s departure could exacerbate challenges in maintaining competitiveness in the Pac-12. Shelstad, a former Oregon Gatorade Player of the Year, had considered Gonzaga and UCLA before committing to the Ducks in 2023. His decision to leave now positions him as one of the top point guards available in the transfer portal. With the Ducks struggling to retain key talent, the team faces mounting pressure to address its roster shortcomings and restore success in the conference.#pac_12 #transfer_portal #jackson_shelstad #oregon_ducks #dana_altman
