College Basketball
Travis Perry Transfer Portal: WKU and Tennessee Emerging as Favorites, Ole Miss and Louisville Chase
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Travis Perry, the 2024 Kentucky Mr. Basketball and the state’s all-time leading scorer, struggled to find a role as a freshman at Kentucky and has entered the transfer portal. Perry’s transfer decision is starting to take shape, and two schools — Western Kentucky and Tennessee — look like the most serious options right now. Ole Miss and Louisville are still trying to stay in the race, but the pull from WKU and the chance to stay in the SEC with Tennessee seem stronger.
WKU in Chase for Travis Perry
Western Kentucky could be an ideal fit for Perry. It’s only about two hours from his hometown of Eddyville. WKU pursued him hard out of high school, and with most of last season’s top players graduating, Perry would walk into a real opportunity for playing time.
There’s a belief that the Hilltoppers could make space for a player like Perry. The downside is obvious: WKU doesn’t offer the national spotlight that bigger SEC programs can.
Tennessee Provides Stability for Perry
Tennessee is another strong possibility. The Vols have open scholarships and are actively looking for guard help. Perry would stay in the SEC, giving him the competition and visibility that comes with it. Rick Barnes has a strong track record of developing guards, and Perry would benefit from that.
The drawback? He would likely start as a backup. Tennessee already added Maryland transfer Ja’Kobi Gillespie and could still bring in more backcourt competition. If Perry wants big minutes right away, this isn’t the clearest path.
Ole Miss and Louisville Are Still in the Picture
Ole Miss has long been a serious player for Perry. Chris Beard’s staff liked him early, and they still have room to offer a bigger role. Beard’s system would fit Perry’s offensive skills, but he’d need to step up defensively to thrive there.
Louisville offers a different kind of appeal. The Cardinals need guards and would likely give Perry a good amount of minutes. He’d stay close to home, but the instability of the Louisville program — and the optics of switching from Kentucky to a rival — could weigh on him.
Travis Perry’s Next Team?
If Perry prioritizes immediate playing time and staying close to home, WKU makes a lot of sense. If he’s willing to fight for minutes but wants the SEC competition level, Tennessee is the more logical move. Ole Miss and Louisville are still alive, but feel more like challengers than favorites at this point.
