Gonzaga’s head coach Mark Few confirmed that the program is actively pursuing new talent to replace the void left by Skylar Wicks, the St. Francis wing who reopened his recruitment after a brief stint with the Bulldogs. The move comes as the team navigates a crowded offseason landscape.
A new chapter for the Bulldogs
Adding to the uncertainty, five current roster members — Nathan de Sousa, Izan Almansa, Xaivian Lee, Chauncey Wiggins and Javon Bennett — remain in limbo, their eligibility still under review by the NCAA. The pending status of these players has amplified the need for immediate reinforcements.
Among the names surfacing in early discussions, Fedor Zugic, a 6‑foot‑6 wing from Montenegro, is being evaluated for his potential to bring size and defensive versatility. Though his stint at Creighton did not translate into standout statistics, coaches see a change of environment as a possible catalyst for growth.
Hunter Carter, a 6‑foot‑5 guard hailing from Tacoma, Washington, brings a high‑school scoring pedigree that includes a 27.6‑point average, making him an attractive option for a backcourt that could use a dynamic scorer. His skill set aligns with the Bulldogs’ desire for a player who can both create and defend.
Grant Kepley, a 6‑foot‑4 guard who spent last season at Montana, offers a different brand of depth. While his efficiency numbers were modest, his experience in a competitive conference and willingness to compete for minutes could prove valuable as the Bulldogs aim to maintain a deep rotation.
The coaching staff emphasizes that the ideal addition must be comfortable sharing the floor with a mix of returning veterans and newcomers, especially given the fluid eligibility picture that could reshape the lineup throughout the year.
A strategic shift in recruitment philosophy
Rather than chasing marquee names, the Bulldogs appear focused on acquiring players who can fill specific functional roles — whether that means providing perimeter shooting, defensive versatility, or simply adding depth at the guard positions. This pragmatic approach reflects a broader trend across college basketball, where roster continuity often trumps headline‑making signings.
While former Iowa guard Tavion Banks has been mentioned in broader circles as a potential fit, the current target list does not include him as a primary candidate. Instead, the emphasis remains on transfers who are still seeking a new landing spot and who can adapt quickly to the Bulldogs’ system.
As the 2026‑27 season approaches, the success of Gonzaga’s transfer strategy will be measured not only by on‑court performance but also by how smoothly the new pieces integrate amid ongoing eligibility debates. The coming months will likely bring further clarity, but for now the Bulldogs are laying the groundwork for a roster that can compete at the highest level.