BOOM: Nation’s Most Coveted Transfer Portal Sharpshooter Lamar Wilkerson Commits to Indiana, Shocks College Hoops World by Canceling Visits to Kentucky, Ole Miss, and Auburn
In a major shake-up that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, Lamar Wilkerson — widely considered the most coveted shooter in the transfer portal — has officially committed to the Indiana Hoosiers.
The dynamic shooting guard from Sam Houston stunned recruiting circles by canceling his highly anticipated visits to powerhouse programs Kentucky, Ole Miss, and Auburn in favor of making Bloomington his new home.
Wilkerson, a 6-foot-3 guard known for his electric scoring ability and deadeye shooting from beyond the arc, was a top target for multiple blue-blood programs looking to add instant offense and veteran leadership. After averaging an impressive 18.5 points per game last season while shooting over 42% from three, Wilkerson entered the portal with no shortage of suitors. Experts expected his recruitment to stretch well into the offseason, especially with scheduled visits lined up with SEC juggernauts. But Indiana’s staff clearly made a massive impression — and closed the deal early.
This commitment is a monumental win for head coach Mike Woodson and the Hoosiers, who have been aggressive in the transfer portal to rebuild a roster capable of contending in the Big Ten. With Wilkerson in the fold, Indiana immediately boosts its perimeter scoring, spacing, and late-game shot-making — all areas that were question marks during last season’s campaign.
What makes Wilkerson’s decision even more significant is who he turned down. Kentucky was reportedly rolling out the red carpet and had Wilkerson near the top of their board. Ole Miss and Auburn, both armed with NIL firepower and strong guard traditions, were considered strong contenders. The fact that Wilkerson shut down his recruitment before stepping foot on any of those campuses speaks volumes about Indiana’s pitch and the opportunity he sees in the Cream and Crimson.
“This felt like the right fit for me,” Wilkerson said in a brief statement. “Coach Woodson believes in me, and I believe in what they’re building at Indiana. I’m excited to be part of something special.”
For Indiana, this marks not just a recruiting victory but a statement of intent. Landing a top-tier transfer over programs with deep tournament runs and elite reputations is the kind of move that can shift momentum for an entire program. Wilkerson will bring scoring punch, experience, and a competitive edge that could make him one of the most impactful transfers in the country next season.
With Wilkerson now committed, Indiana fans have every reason to be excited about what’s ahead. The Hoosiers just landed a bucket-getter who thrives under pressure and isn’t afraid of the big moment. In the ever-competitive Big Ten, that kind of confidence — and that kind of stroke — could be the difference between a tournament team and a title contender.
