Thoughts on George Washington III entering transfer portal again

Just when you think things are finalized in college basketball, something changes. Vlad Goldin committed to Michigan basketball on Monday and for a time, left the Wolverines with zero scholarships.

Yet, it didn’t stay that way for long as George Washington III, a four-star signee of Michigan basketball in the 2023 recruiting class, has reportedly re-entered the transfer portal.

Michigan freshman guard George Washington III is back in the transfer portal. He was ranked No. 99 in the class of 2023 by @Rivals.https://t.co/1Mq73cYDdf

— NCAA Transfer Portal (@RivalsPortal) April 29, 2024

The fact that Michigan is dealing with some roster attrition isn’t a surprise. It’s who left that’s a little surprising. Nimari Burnett and Jace Howard are two names to keep an eye on, but there hasn’t been any indication that either would leave the program.

Burnett could be a solid piece for the Wolverines in 2024-25. The 6-foot-4 guard is known as a solid defender. He also shot 34.7 percent from 3-point range and made 1.6 per game. On a quality team, he could be a valuable role player.

Washington seemed like he would have a role too or at least would be willing to compete for one in the future. Dusty May has added a bunch of guards though and guys like Lorenzo Cason and Justin Pippen are probably a direct threat to Washington’s minutes, plus Roddy Gayle has two years of eligibility. Projected starting point guard Tre Donaldson does too and don’t forget about freshman Durral Brooks.

Washington was a four-star recruit and despite not showing much last season, can be a productive college basketball player. But the minutes weren’t going to come next season unless his game took a huge step forward. He’ll try to take that leap somewhere else, while Michigan can put that open scholarship to work upgrading the roster.

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