As the 2025–26 college basketball season approaches, Gonzaga University is actively reshaping its roster through the transfer portal. Head coach Mark Few has strategically added new talent while managing departures to maintain the program’s competitive edge.([nypost.com][1])
*** Departures
* **Dusty Stromer**: The sophomore guard entered the transfer portal after a decrease in playing time during his second season. He averaged 17.5 minutes per game, down from nearly 24 minutes as a freshman, and contributed 4.8 points per game. ([collegefootballnetwork.com][2])
* **Jun Seok Yeo**: The junior forward’s role diminished in the 2024–25 season, playing in 14 games with an average of just over four minutes per game and 1.6 points per contest. ([collegefootballnetwork.com][2])
* **Michael Ajayi**: After transferring from Pepperdine, Ajayi played one season at Gonzaga, starting 13 of 34 games. He averaged 6.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game. Ajayi announced his decision to transfer on March 27. ([collegefootballnetwork.com][2])
* **Anton Watson**: A senior forward and Spokane native, Watson graduated and concluded his Gonzaga career as the only player in program history with over 1,400 points, 700 rebounds, and 200 assists. His defensive prowess and leadership were integral to the team’s success. ([si.com][3])
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### ➕ New Additions
* **Jalen Warley**: The 6-foot-7 guard transferred from Virginia after the unexpected retirement of head coach Tony Bennett. Prior to Virginia, Warley spent three seasons at Florida State, averaging 6.0 points, 2.9 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game. He will redshirt the 2024–25 season and be eligible for the 2025–26 season. ([swxlocalsports.com][4], [reuters.com][5])
* **Khalif Battle**: A graduate transfer from Arkansas, Battle is known for his scoring ability, averaging 14.8 points per game in his final season with the Razorbacks. His addition strengthens Gonzaga’s backcourt depth. ([yardbarker.com][6])
* **Braeden Smith**: The Patriot League Player of the Year at Colgate, Smith averaged 12.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game in his sophomore season. He has redshirted the 2024–25 season and is expected to contribute significantly in the upcoming season. ([swxlocalsports.com][4])
* **Michael Ajayi**: Returning to Gonzaga after a season at Pepperdine, Ajayi brings versatility to the forward position. He averaged 17.2 points and 9.9 rebounds per game in his final season at Pepperdine. ([collegefootballnetwork.com][2])
* **Emmanuel Innocenti**: A defensive specialist from Tarleton State, Innocenti adds depth to the wing and forward positions. His defensive skills are expected to bolster Gonzaga’s perimeter defense. ([spokesman.com][7])
* **Ismaila Diagne**: A 7-foot freshman, Diagne offers potential in the frontcourt. He played in 10 games during the 2024–25 season, averaging 3.4 points and 1.8 rebounds per game. ([swxlocalsports.com][4])
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With these strategic additions and departures, Gonzaga aims to maintain its competitive stature in college basketball. The blend of experienced transfers and developing talent positions the Bulldogs for success in the upcoming season.