Haggerty’s College Return: Kansas State Lands Top Transfer
Former Memphis point guard PJ Haggerty has decided to forgo the 2025 NBA Draft and will instead return to college basketball, committing to Kansas State University. This decision comes after Haggerty, ranked as the No. 2 transfer in the portal, didn’t receive the anticipated positive feedback from NBA scouts. The move marks a significant boost for the Wildcats as they prepare for a crucial 2025-26 season.
Haggerty’s journey has been marked by a series of high-profile transfers. After a brief stint at TCU, he shone at Tulsa, earning unanimous AAC Freshman of the Year honors in 2023-24. His impressive performance, averaging 21.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.9 steals per game, solidified his status as a rising star. He became only the second Division I freshman in over 30 years to achieve such remarkable all-around statistics.
His success continued at Memphis during the 2024-25 season. He led the Tigers in scoring, averaging an impressive 21.7 points per game, good for third in the nation, while also contributing 5.8 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.8 steals per contest. Haggerty’s efficient shooting (47.6% from the field, 36.4% from three-point range, and 81.8% from the free-throw line) further showcased his well-rounded game and played a pivotal role in Memphis’s third NCAA Tournament appearance in four years.
While NC State was initially considered a strong contender for his services, Kansas State ultimately secured Haggerty’s commitment. Reports suggest Haggerty initially sought a substantial NIL deal in the $4 million–$5 million range but ultimately accepted a smaller offer. Despite this, Kansas State’s commitment to the reigning AAC Player of the Year is clear, underscoring the significant impact he’s expected to have on their program.
The Wildcats are eager to leverage Haggerty’s talent as they aim to end a two-year absence from the NCAA Tournament. His arrival signals a renewed sense of optimism for Kansas State, adding a proven high-level scorer and playmaker to their roster. For Haggerty, the decision to return to college basketball represents a strategic move to further refine his skills and improve his NBA draft prospects in the future. His journey, marked by consistent high-level performance and strategic transfers, highlights his dedication and ambition within the dynamic landscape of college basketball.
