Brad Brownell and the Clemson basketball program have wasted no time in making their presence felt in the transfer portal, and they’re setting their sights on one of the most coveted players available: Arizona transfer KJ Lewis. The 6-foot-5 guard, a former four-star recruit, has been a key piece of the Arizona Wildcats’ rotation over the past two seasons. His departure from Tucson has opened the door for a new chapter in his career, and Clemson has quickly made their interest known.
Lewis, who played a significant role in helping Arizona secure a 4-seed in the NCAA Tournament this past season, averaged 10.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in his sophomore year. While his 3-point shooting was a concern—hitting just 19 percent from beyond the arc—he made up for it with his strong defensive abilities, rebounding, and playmaking. His well-rounded game, combined with his 81 percent shooting from the free-throw line, made him one of the more intriguing prospects available in the transfer portal.
After two seasons at Arizona, where he showed flashes of brilliance, Lewis is now looking for a new home. His departure from Arizona is not entirely surprising, as the guard was often inconsistent with his shooting, especially from long range. However, his ability to contribute in other areas of the game has kept him on the radar of many high-profile programs. Clemson is among those schools hoping to land him as they look to bolster their roster for the upcoming 2025-26 season.
While Lewis is being courted by a number of top-tier programs, including Kansas, UCLA, and Texas, the Tigers have a solid case to make. Brownell has been actively working the phones, and Clemson’s need for depth and playmaking is evident. The Tigers currently sit with just eight scholarship players, including their incoming recruits, leaving the team in a vulnerable position heading into next season. Landing Lewis would not only give the team an immediate impact player but would also provide the necessary depth to compete in the highly competitive ACC.
Adding a player like Lewis would complement recent transfer Nick Davidson, a forward from Nevada who has been brought in to provide a scoring punch on both ends of the floor. Together, Lewis and Davidson could form the foundation of a Clemson team that is looking to take a significant step forward in 2025-26. With both players bringing different skill sets to the table, the Tigers could be well-positioned to make a run in the ACC, a conference known for its tough competition year in and year out.
One of the key areas where Lewis could make an immediate impact is defense. His defensive abilities, combined with his length and athleticism, would give Clemson an edge against some of the more high-powered offenses in the ACC. While his 3-point shooting might still be a work in progress, his ability to defend multiple positions and rebound will be a huge asset for the Tigers.
For Lewis, the decision of where to transfer will likely come down to a program that provides him with the best opportunity to grow, improve, and contribute immediately. Clemson’s stable coaching staff and growing reputation in the ACC could make it an appealing option. Additionally, the opportunity to play in the prestigious ACC and showcase his skills on a bigger stage could be a motivating factor as he looks to take his game to the next level.
Clemson’s recruiting success in recent years, especially in the transfer portal, has made them a contender for top-tier talent like Lewis. With Brownell’s ability to develop players and help them reach their full potential, the Tigers are a program on the rise. Adding a player of Lewis’ caliber could be just what the team needs to push toward the top of the conference.
Though Clemson is currently facing stiff competition from other programs in pursuit of Lewis, the Tigers have made their pitch and are eager to add him to their roster. The guard’s all-around skills would help solidify an already promising core for the Tigers. With a lineup that already includes some talented players, including the addition of Davidson, adding Lewis could provide the depth and versatility needed to compete for an ACC championship.
As this recruitment continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Lewis to see which program he ultimately chooses. If Clemson can land the talented transfer, they could be one of the surprise teams in the ACC next season, challenging for a higher seed in the NCAA Tournament. With several high-profile programs also vying for his services, it remains to be seen whether Clemson will secure his commitment.
Ultimately, this is a pivotal moment for the Clemson basketball program as they look to strengthen their roster and make a statement in the upcoming season. Lewis’ decision could play a significant role in shaping the trajectory of the Tigers’ 2025-26 campaign. Whether he chooses Clemson or another program, one thing is for sure: the transfer portal has once again proven to be a crucial component in building successful college basketball teams.
Stay tuned for further updates as the recruitment of KJ Lewis continues, and as Clemson’s efforts to build a championship-caliber roster intensify. The 2025-26 season could be a defining year for Brownell and the Tigers.