Justin Pippen Transfers from Michigan to California Golden Bears

Ann Arbor, Mich. — Justin Pippen, the son of basketball legend Scottie Pippen, is officially transferring from the University of Michigan to the University of California, Berkeley. The 6-foot-3 guard confirmed his commitment to the Golden Bears via social media on Tuesday.

Pippen’s decision comes after a challenging freshman season with the Wolverines during which he averaged 1.6 points and 6.7 minutes in 28 games. Despite showing promise as a defender, he struggled offensively with only a 27.3% shooting percentage from the field.

Head coach Dusty May noted that Pippen’s performance was hindered by a possible concussion sustained in a practice before the Big Ten Tournament. Consequently, he missed key postseason games, including those in Indianapolis and the NCAA Tournament.

The Wolverines finished their season with a 27-10 record, following a Sweet 16 exit to Auburn. Pippen entered the transfer portal on the first day of the 30-day window, shortly after Michigan’s tournament run concluded.

Pippen was regarded as a top-110 recruit, having been rated as the No. 106 prospect by 247Sports composite. He graduated from Sierra Canyon High School in Chatsworth, California, where he previously shortlisted Cal among his top choices before his commitment to Michigan.

Cal, in its inaugural season in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), ended with a 14-19 record, placing 15th in the league. The Golden Bears have not seen a winning season since 2016-17 and last participated in the NCAA Tournament that same year.

As Pippen joins Cal, he becomes the second player from Michigan to announce a transfer, following former starting point guard Tre Donaldson, who is bound for Miami. Other Michigan players, including Sam Walters and Jace Howard, have also entered the transfer portal.

Brooks and Cason, both freshmen at Michigan, were embroiled in controversy during the NCAA Tournament when they were seen standing on Michigan State’s midcourt logo, which led to a brief scuffle. Brooks later clarified his actions, stating, “I wasn’t trying to start nothing. That wasn’t the intent.” Brooks averaged 0.8 points and 0.7 assists across 15 games before deciding to transfer.