Evaluating Clemson’s Transfer Portal Moves

Evaluating Clemson’s Transfer Portal Additions

After a first-round exit in the NCAA Tournament, the Clemson Tigers are shifting their focus to the offseason. With head coach Brad Brownell and his staff preparing for the upcoming season, it’s an opportune time to review the team’s transfer portal additions from the past season. These players played significant roles in shaping the Tigers’ performance, and their contributions will be crucial as the program looks to rebuild.

RJ Godfrey – Forward

RJ Godfrey proved to be one of the most valuable additions to the Clemson roster. His journey from Georgia to Clemson showcased his growth as a player. During his time with the Bulldogs, he was a key contributor, averaging 6.4 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. In his second season with the Tigers, Godfrey elevated his game even further, posting career-highs in points (12.0), rebounds (5.3), and assists (1.6) per game.

Despite being undersized at 6-foot-8, Godfrey consistently outperformed taller opponents. A standout moment came on March 3 when he scored 22 points and grabbed 9 rebounds against North Carolina, shooting 10-of-13 from the field. This performance highlighted his ability to thrive under pressure and contribute significantly to the team’s success.

Grade: A

Jestin Porter – Guard

Jestin Porter brought a unique skill set to the Clemson lineup. His three-point shooting percentage of 34.8% was among the best on the team, providing a much-needed boost to the offense. However, his lack of size became a concern during ACC play, as opponents exploited this weakness.

Porter struggled to maintain the 15 points per game average he had at Middle Tennessee. His shooting percentages dipped after joining Clemson, but there were moments where he shone. One such instance was his 16-point performance in the second half against No. 24 Louisville, which helped solidify Clemson’s NCAA Tournament bid.

Grade: B

Butta Johnson – Guard

Butta Johnson emerged as a reliable player late in the season, particularly during Clemson’s three-point win over Syracuse on New Year’s Eve. He averaged 6.9 points per game for the rest of the season, playing over 23 minutes on average.

Johnson’s versatility and ball-handling skills made him a valuable asset. His ability to defend and shoot from beyond the arc allowed the Tigers to adjust their strategy as the ACC slate grew more challenging. Notably, he held Seth Trimble to just 9 points on 2-for-10 shooting, showcasing his defensive capabilities.

Grade: B+

Jake Wahlin – Forward

Jake Wahlin started 27 of the first 28 games for the Tigers but was eventually replaced by Johnson as ACC play progressed. The former Utah Ute has announced his intention to transfer when the portal opens on April 7.

Wahlin possesses a skill set that would appeal to any high-major program, including his 34% three-point shooting. However, he never reached his full potential under Brownell. His time at Clemson did not meet expectations, and he will now look to find a new home for his third school in four years.

Grade: C-

Nick Davidson – Forward/Center

Nick Davidson’s season was marked by inconsistency. Fans remember his 25-point breakout against Boston College, but there were several games where he struggled to score. His performances often varied depending on his role alongside fellow big man Carter Welling.

Davidson’s impact was felt in some games, but he failed to make a significant difference in critical moments. His inability to consistently perform inside the paint was evident during Clemson’s NCAA Tournament loss to Iowa, where the Tigers struggled to contain the opponent’s offensive rebounding.

Grade: B-

Carter Welling – Center

Carter Welling entered Clemson as a highly anticipated addition, having won the 2024 WAC Defensive Player of the Year award. His presence immediately benefited the Tigers, as he became the team’s second-leading scorer with 10.2 points per game.

Welling’s performance in the overtime win over Georgia at the Charleston Classic was a highlight of his season. He continued to be a valuable player throughout ACC play, contributing on both ends of the floor. Unfortunately, his season ended prematurely due to a torn ACL in the ACC Tournament, leaving the team without a key piece in the final stretch.

Grade: A-