Indiana Forward Mackenzie Mgbako Enters Transfer Portal, Pursues NBA Draft

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – Mackenzie Mgbako, a sophomore forward for the Indiana Hoosiers, has entered the transfer portal and announced his intention to explore the 2025 NBA draft, according to multiple reports. This decision follows recent changes in the coaching staff and comes as the transfer portal opens to all college basketball players.

“After careful consideration and thorough reflection of my time at Indiana University, I would like to express my profound gratitude for the past two years,” Mgbako said in a statement. “Wearing the iconic red and white has been a truly remarkable experience, and Indiana will always remain a formative part of my journey.”

At 6 feet 9 inches tall, Mgbako averaged 12.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game during the recently completed season. His performance included shooting 32.8 percent from beyond the arc over 65 career games during his time with the Hoosiers.

Despite being one of the highest-ranked recruits to ever join Indiana, Mgbako faced challenges with consistency. He began his college career as a highly touted five-star recruit from Roselle Catholic High School but had mixed results, including a season-high performance of 31 points against SIU-Edwardsville.

“Given recent changes in the coaching staff, I have decided in consultation with my family that testing the waters of the NBA is the best course of action,” he added. “In choosing this path, I am able to retain my eligibility in the transfer portal while also keeping an eye on developments within the Indiana program.”

Throughout his career at Indiana, Mgbako recorded eight games where he scored 20 points or more, yet also had ten games where his scoring was limited to five points or less. Mgbako’s shooting struggles were particularly evident during conference play, where he shot just 26.9 percent from three-point range in Big Ten games.

As he enters the portal, Mgbako joins teammates Gabe Cupps and Malik Reneau, who have also declared their intention to leave the program this spring. Mgbako, who has two seasons of eligibility remaining, expressed appreciation for his teammates and coaching staff.

“To my teammates, your camaraderie and dedication have made each and every day working together a rewarding experience. I consider you lifelong brothers,” he stated. “To Coach [Mike] Woodson, I extend my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to play under your leadership and for the trust you placed in me.”

With spring break concluded, the new Indiana head coach Darian DeVries is expected to meet with players to discuss their future with the program, amid growing turmoil following Coach Woodson’s departure.