Evan Mahaffey of Ohio State joins the transfer portal following two seasons with the Buckeyes.

Ohio State forward Evan Mahaffey has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal, marking a significant change in his collegiate basketball career. Mahaffey, who initially transferred to Ohio State from Penn State, spent two seasons with the Buckeyes before deciding to explore new opportunities. His departure leaves Ohio State with an open roster spot and raises questions about the team’s depth on the wing moving forward.

High School Career and Recruitment

Mahaffey, a Cincinnati native, attended Archbishop Moeller High School, where he emerged as one of Ohio’s top basketball prospects. His senior year saw him earn numerous accolades, including Greater Catholic League (GCL) Player of the Year honors and Division I First-Team All-Ohio recognition. A versatile and athletic forward, Mahaffey was a highly sought-after recruit, ultimately committing to Penn State in 2022.

Freshman Season at Penn State (2022-2023)

As a freshman at Penn State, Mahaffey played in 34 games, averaging 2.8 points and 1.7 rebounds per contest. His efficiency was notable, as he shot 56.9% from the field despite limited playing time (9.4 minutes per game). One of his standout performances came against Indiana, where he scored a career-high 12 points on perfect shooting. His ability to contribute in key moments earned him minutes in both NCAA Tournament games for the Nittany Lions.

Transfer to Ohio State (2023-2025)

Following the departure of Penn State’s coaching staff, Mahaffey entered the transfer portal and committed to Ohio State. His sophomore season saw an increased role, as he started at small forward and played 22.1 minutes per game. He averaged 4.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, one steal, and 0.7 blocks per game. His defensive prowess and rebounding ability made him a valuable asset in Ohio State’s rotation.

During his second season with the Buckeyes, Mahaffey’s role shifted with the arrival of Micah Parrish from San Diego State. Coming off the bench, he saw his playing time dip to 18 minutes per game while averaging 3.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per contest. Despite this, he remained a key contributor on the defensive end.

Reasons Behind Mahaffey’s Decision to Transfer

Mahaffey’s decision to enter the transfer portal likely stems from a combination of factors, including changes in Ohio State’s rotation, a desire for a more prominent offensive role, and the opportunity to explore new systems that better fit his playing style. With limited offensive touches and reduced minutes, transferring allows him to find a program where he can maximize his skills and play a more significant role.

Impact on Ohio State’s Roster

Mahaffey’s departure creates a gap in Ohio State’s depth at the wing position. With Micah Parrish graduating, the Buckeyes will now look to fill the void with returning players and potential new additions from the transfer portal. Junior Devin Royal, who excelled at power forward last season, and sophomore Colin White, a promising three-star recruit, will likely see increased opportunities in Mahaffey’s absence.

Potential Landing Spots for Mahaffey

Given his defensive versatility and experience in the Big Ten, Mahaffey is expected to draw interest from several programs. Schools looking for an experienced two-way wing who can contribute on both ends of the floor will likely pursue him. Some potential landing spots include mid-major programs where he could be a featured player or another high-major program needing depth and defensive intensity.

Mahaffey’s Legacy and Future Outlook

While his time at Ohio State may not have gone exactly as planned, Mahaffey leaves behind a legacy of hard work and defensive excellence. As he embarks on the next chapter of his collegiate career, he will look to find a program where he can showcase his full potential and make a lasting impact.

With one or two years of eligibility remaining, Mahaffey’s next move will be crucial in determining his future in college basketball and beyond. Whether he lands at another Power Five school or opts for a mid-major program where he can take on a larger role, his talent and experience will make him a valuable addition to any team.

Evan Mahaffey’s entry into the transfer portal marks a turning point in his college basketball journey. As teams evaluate his potential fit, Mahaffey will have the opportunity to find a program that aligns with his goals and playing style. For Ohio State, his departure creates both a challenge and an opportunity to reshape its roster heading into the next season. College basketball fans will be watching closely to see where Mahaffey lands and how he contributes in his new home.