UCLA Secures Star Transfer Donovan Dent from New Mexico

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — In a significant offseason move, UCLA has announced the addition of Donovan Dent, the Mountain West Player of the Year from New Mexico, who committed to the Bruins on Friday just days after entering the transfer portal.

The 6-foot-2 guard from Corona, California, averaged 20.4 points and 6.4 assists per game during the 2024-25 season, placing him among the top players in college basketball. His impressive performance included scoring at least 20 points in nine of his last ten games leading to the NCAA tournament, a remarkable feat that drew attention from various high-profile programs.

UCLA head coach Mick Cronin, who faced off against Dent when New Mexico defeated UCLA in November, expressed enthusiasm about adding the talented player. “Donovan is a dynamic scorer and playmaker. His ability to navigate defenses and create scoring opportunities will be pivotal for our team next season,” Cronin stated in a press release.

Dent’s journey to UCLA follows a standout NCAA tournament performance where he scored 21 points and dished out six assists against Marquette in the first round. Despite New Mexico’s exit in the Round of 32 against Michigan State, Dent’s individual contributions did not go unnoticed, making him an attractive recruit in the transfer portal.

After the departure of his coach, Richard Pitino, to Marquette, Dent opted to seek new opportunities, quickly attracting interest from a plethora of elite programs, including Kentucky and Gonzaga. His decision to join UCLA marks a significant shift as he returns to his home state.

247Sports Director of Scouting Adam Finkelstein praised Dent’s skills, noting, “He has extreme burst and speed with the ball, making him a constant threat. His ability to finish at the rim at a 55% rate shows his scoring prowess.” Finkelstein highlighted Dent’s shooting improvement, as well, stating he shot 54% on unguarded catch-and-shoot three-pointers last season.

Dent’s recruitment comes at a crucial moment for Cronin, whose coaching strategies have come under scrutiny following inconsistent seasons. With the competitive landscape of the Big Ten evolving, securing a player of Dent’s caliber could bolster hopes for a successful upcoming season.

As the transfer portal remains open until April 22, fans will be watching closely as UCLA’s roster continues to take shape. Dent’s commitment is seen as a pivotal moment in positioning UCLA for a more competitive campaign in the upcoming season.