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Jeff Borzello, ESPN staff writer
Miami Hurricanes transfer Uga Poplar, one of Portal’s top players, has committed to Villanova, sources told ESPN on Wednesday.
Poplar visited Villanova last month and was also pursued by the likes of Oregon and Kentucky. He went through the NBA draft process and attended the G League Elite camp before withdrawing his name before last week’s deadline.
A 6-foot-5 shooting guard, Popler achieved career highs across the board last season. He averaged 13.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists as a junior, shooting 38.5% from 3-point range.
Before the season, Miami coach Jim Larranaga said the Philadelphia native was in for a breakout season.
“He looks like a pro,” Larranaga told ESPN at the ACC’s media day. “He looks like a first-round draft pick. He’s a great 3-point shooter. He’s probably the best pull-up jump shooter in the country, off the catch or off the bounce. He’s a spirited defender. He’s ready for big things this year.”
Poplar has been terrific to start the season, scoring at least 20 points in four of its first 11 games — including a 25-game win at La Salle in mid-December. His numbers dipped in conference play, but he still managed to score 17 points against Pitt and 15 against Duke.
He is number 16 in ESPN’s transfer rankings.
Poplar marks a much-needed addition for Kyle Neptune and the Wildcats, coming a week after All-BIG EAST big man Eric Dixon returned to Villanova for another season. Three other transfers could also feature in the starting lineup: Jamir Brikus (La Salle), Tyler Perkins (Penn) and Enoch Boacki (Fresno State).
Next season will be crucial for the Neptunes, who have missed the NCAA Tournament in each of their two seasons since Jay Wright took over in 2022.
The Philadelphia Inquirer first reported Poplar’s commitment.
