Texas’s revamped squad for the 2024-25 SEC season features several high-octane scorers in both the backcourt and on the wing.
Earlier this month, Texas basketball and head coach Rodney Terry welcomed their summer enrollees to campus. The program brought in eight new players through the transfer portal and high school recruiting for the 2024 signing class. As summer workouts commence, Texas basketball looks poised to be a top 15 or 20 team, with a significantly different squad from last year. The team lost all five starters due to exhausted eligibility and transfers during the spring window, including key players senior big man Dylan Disu and senior guard Max Abmas.
To address these losses, Texas added several impactful transfers to strengthen the roster and the starting lineup for the 2024-25 season in the SEC. High school recruits are also expected to contribute immediately, with at least one starting-caliber player joining next season. Early reports from summer workouts have highlighted the promising performances of the new enrollees. Here are four players expected to make an immediate impact:
Tre Johnson, SG
The standout of Texas’s 2024 signing class is five-star shooting guard Tre Johnson from Dallas, TX. Ranked as the No. 5 recruit in the nation, Johnson is seen as a potential early lottery pick for the 2025 NBA Draft. Johnson brings a level of talent the Longhorns have lacked in the backcourt and on the wing. Coach Terry has high expectations for Johnson, praising his readiness to play with older players and his natural scoring ability. Johnson is anticipated to be a top scoring threat, capable of scoring from all three levels and relieving pressure with his playmaking skills.
Jordan Pope, G
Former Oregon State guard Jordan Pope is a significant addition for Texas, bringing experience as a leading scorer in major conference play. The 6-foot-2 guard led Oregon State in scoring, assists, and free-throw percentage last season. Pope’s ability to run the offense and shoot from range makes him a valuable asset. Adjusting to Texas’s faster tempo will be crucial, but his versatility as a ball-handler and shooter should make him a key player in Terry’s system.
Jayson Kent, F
Jayson Kent, a transfer from Indiana State, adds proven experience and depth to Texas’s lineup. Kent, along with teammate Julian Larry, played pivotal roles in Indiana State’s successful season, which included a program-record 32 wins. Kent has already impressed during summer workouts with his high basketball IQ and versatility. Known for his off-ball movement and defensive capabilities, Kent’s rebounding prowess and ability to guard multiple positions will be valuable for Texas this season.
Tramon Mark, G
Tramon Mark, a grad transfer from Arkansas and Houston, is one of the top pure scorers among Texas’s new additions. Standing 6-foot-6, Mark led Arkansas in scoring and brings a wealth of experience from his time in the SEC and AAC. Coach Terry is excited about Mark’s ability to score from all levels and his experience in winning programs. Mark’s transition back to his home state is expected to be smooth, and his scoring potential, combined with Tre Johnson, promises a dynamic offensive duo for the Longhorns.
These new enrollees, blending high school talent and experienced transfers, are set to reshape Texas basketball and elevate the team’s prospects for the upcoming season.
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