A quick move in the college basketball transfer portal has kept one young player close to home. After entering the portal in March, Eli Ellis has already decided his next step, choosing to continue his career within South Carolina.
Eli Ellis finds a new team
Former South Carolina Gamecocks guard Eli Ellis has committed to Charleston Cougars. The decision came less than a month after he entered the transfer portal on March 23.
By staying in the same state, Ellis will not have to make a major geographical adjustment, which can often help players settle in faster.
One season at South Carolina
Ellis spent just one season with South Carolina, where he played an important role off the bench. Even though he did not start any games, he appeared in 28 matches and was one of the team’s key rotation players.
He averaged 8.6 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. His shooting percentage stood at 38.6 percent, while he made 28 percent of his three-point attempts.
Among players who did not start games, Ellis was actually the top scorer for the team, showing his value as an impact substitute.
Highly rated recruit with strong following
Coming out of high school, Ellis was a four-star recruit and one of the most talked-about players in South Carolina’s 2025 class. He gained attention not just for his skills but also for his massive social media presence.
With over 1.4 million followers on TikTok, he brought a level of visibility and excitement that is rare for college players. This popularity made him one of the standout names in his recruiting class.
Part of a larger team shift
Ellis was not the only player to leave South Carolina after the season. In total, seven players from the team entered the transfer portal, showing a period of transition for the program.
He becomes the second former Gamecock to find a new team. His former OTE teammate Abu Yarmah has also transferred, joining Longwood after redshirting the previous season.
What this move means
For Charleston, adding a player like Ellis could strengthen their backcourt. His ability to score off the bench and handle game pressure makes him a useful addition.
For Ellis, this move offers a fresh start and possibly a bigger role. If he continues to develop, he could become a key player in his new team’s lineup.
Key details at a glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Eli Ellis |
| Previous team | South Carolina |
| New team | Charleston |
| Position | Guard |
| 2024–25 stats | 8.6 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 2.0 APG |
| Games played | 28 |
| Recruiting rank | Four-star prospect |
| Transfer portal entry | March 23 |
Eli Ellis’s quick decision shows how fast things can move in college basketball today. With the transfer portal becoming more active each year, players are finding new opportunities faster than ever. For Ellis, staying in South Carolina gives him a chance to grow in a familiar environment while aiming for a bigger impact on the court.
