Devin Askew, once a five-star recruit for the University of Kentucky, has entered the transfer portal for the fourth time, preparing to play his sixth season of college basketball. This decision marks another chapter in a career characterized by perseverance and adaptability.
Early Promise at Kentucky
In 2020, Askew, a standout point guard from Mater Dei High School in Los Angeles, committed to Kentucky, choosing the Wildcats over programs like Louisville, Arizona, and Memphis. His freshman year, however, was challenging; despite starting most games, he averaged 6.5 points and 2.9 assists per game, and Kentucky concluded the season with a 9-16 record. Seeking a fresh start, Askew transferred to the University of Texas.
Transitions and Trials
At Texas, Askew faced a crowded backcourt, resulting in reduced playing time and averages of 2.1 points and 1.3 assists per game. This led to another transfer, this time to the University of California, Berkeley. His tenure at Cal was marred by injuries, limiting him to 19 games over two seasons due to hernia and foot issues. Determined to continue his basketball journey, Askew transferred to Long Beach State.
Resurgence at Long Beach State
The 2024-2025 season at Long Beach State marked a turning point. Askew delivered his best collegiate performance, averaging 18.9 points on 40% shooting, along with 4.6 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game. Despite the team’s overall struggles, his individual success showcased his resilience and growth as a player.
A Final Chapter
Now, with an additional year of eligibility—granted due to the pandemic and a medical hardship waiver—Askew is entering the transfer portal once more. His journey through multiple programs reflects the evolving landscape of college basketball, where athletes seek environments that best suit their development and aspirations.
The Broader Context
Askew’s story is part of a larger trend in college basketball, where the transfer portal has become a pivotal tool for players and coaches alike. Programs like Kentucky have actively utilized the portal to rebuild and strengthen their rosters. Under Coach Mark Pope, Kentucky assembled a competitive team of upperclassmen transfers, securing a No. 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament and achieving significant victories, including a win against Duke.
Looking Ahead
As Askew explores his options for the upcoming season, his journey underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in collegiate athletics. His experiences across multiple programs have not only shaped his skills on the court but also his character off it. Wherever he lands next, Askew’s commitment to the game and his ability to overcome challenges will undoubtedly continue to define his basketball career.
Devin Askew, once a five-star recruit for the University of Kentucky, has entered the transfer portal for the fourth time, preparing to play his sixth season of college basketball. This decision marks another chapter in a career characterized by perseverance and adaptability.
Early Promise at Kentucky
In 2020, Askew, a standout point guard from Mater Dei High School in Los Angeles, committed to Kentucky, choosing the Wildcats over programs like Louisville, Arizona, and Memphis. His freshman year, however, was challenging; despite starting most games, he averaged 6.5 points and 2.9 assists per game, and Kentucky concluded the season with a 9-16 record. Seeking a fresh start, Askew transferred to the University of Texas.
Transitions and Trials
At Texas, Askew faced a crowded backcourt, resulting in reduced playing time and averages of 2.1 points and 1.3 assists per game. This led to another transfer, this time to the University of California, Berkeley. His tenure at Cal was marred by injuries, limiting him to 19 games over two seasons due to hernia and foot issues. Determined to continue his basketball journey, Askew transferred to Long Beach State.
Resurgence at Long Beach State
The 2024-2025 season at Long Beach State marked a turning point. Askew delivered his best collegiate performance, averaging 18.9 points on 40% shooting, along with 4.6 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game. Despite the team’s overall struggles, his individual success showcased his resilience and growth as a player.
A Final Chapter
Now, with an additional year of eligibility—granted due to the pandemic and a medical hardship waiver—Askew is entering the transfer portal once more. His journey through multiple programs reflects the evolving landscape of college basketball, where athletes seek environments that best suit their development and aspirations.
The Broader Context
Askew’s story is part of a larger trend in college basketball, where the transfer portal has become a pivotal tool for players and coaches alike. Programs like Kentucky have actively utilized the portal to rebuild and strengthen their rosters. Under Coach Mark Pope, Kentucky assembled a competitive team of upperclassmen transfers, securing a No. 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament and achieving significant victories, including a win against Duke.
Looking Ahead
As Askew explores his options for the upcoming season, his journey underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability in collegiate athletics. His experiences across multiple programs have not only shaped his skills on the court but also his character off it. Wherever he lands next, Askew’s commitment to the game and his ability to overcome challenges will undoubtedly continue to define his basketball career.
