Arizona Basketball guard James Akinjo enters transfer portal

Continuing to go through changes in the new, Tommy Lloyd era of Arizona Basketball, the Wildcats may be without James Akinjo, as the veteran enters the transfer portal. 

Well, as to be expected with any coaching change, you will always see a bit of roster turnover, and for Arizona Basketball, that is certainly the case as the Wildcats are experiencing a few roster changes with the latest being James Akinjo.

Already, the Wildcats have lost Ira Lee, Jemarl Baker, and Daniel Batcho to transfer, and Kerr Kriisa of course announced his intent to transfer just days ago as well. However, he is at least keeping the option open of potentially returning.

Arizona Wildcats

Now, Akinjo joins the long list of Wildcats in the portal, and the news of him entering the portal broke on Friday afternoon. While unfortunate, the news isn’t entirely surprising, after all, it seemed as if James was potentially looking at the prospect of going pro as well.

Spending just one, highly productive season in Tucson, James came to Arizona after playing at Georgetown, and naturally, because of the coaching changes, he is entering the transfer portal.

He was a standout guard for the Cats, providing a bit of stability for the Wildcats in what was ultimately a tumultuous and challenging year. Even despite all the distractions and outside noise, James was a steady, driving force, willing the Wildcats to a respectable 17-9 finish on the season.

Well, with one year of eligibility left, James can essentially go anywhere to play right away, and you have to think plenty of schools will be calling. He is a savvy and crafty veteran with a nice shooting touch and great vision on the court.

Akinjo facilitates the ball well, he is an emotional and vocal leader, and his absence will be sorely missed with the Wildcats next year. Wherever he goes, we wish him the best and hope he continues to find success!