The battle for one of the most coveted names in the NCAA Transfer Portal is heating up — and it’s down to two blue bloods: Alabama and Duke. At the center of it all is Washington State transfer guard Cedric Coward, a rising star who’s also currently testing the NBA Draft waters.
Coward, a 6’6” wing, turned heads during a brief but explosive stint at Washington State last season, averaging 17.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game over just six appearances. He was remarkably efficient, posting 56/40/84 shooting splits before a rotator cuff injury cut his season short. Despite the limited action, he’s drawn serious attention — both from NBA scouts and high-major programs.
According to Jon Rothstein, Coward has narrowed his focus to Alabama and Duke, with both schools aggressively pursuing him as a potential difference-maker. But while Alabama has long been rumored to be the favorite, there’s one key advantage that might tip the scales in Duke’s favor: NBA visibility and pedigree.
The Duke Factor: NBA Pipeline and Prestige
Duke’s track record of sending players to the NBA is among the best in college basketball history. Under former coach Mike Krzyzewski and now Jon Scheyer, the Blue Devils have continued to be a springboard for top talent. For a player like Coward — currently projected as a late second-round pick by ESPN’s Jonathan Givony — the chance to showcase his game on national TV in a program synonymous with NBA development may be too good to pass up.
While Alabama has built a strong basketball identity under Nate Oats, especially with a fast-paced, pro-style offense, Duke still carries a unique aura. The Blue Devils play in front of NBA scouts almost every night in the ACC, and their name alone opens doors for fringe prospects. For someone like Coward, who’s looking to maximize his draft stock, that platform could be a deciding factor.
Alabama’s Counter-Pitch: Immediate Role and Fit
That said, Alabama has a compelling offer of its own. With three open roster spots and a clear need for a big guard or wing, Coward would likely walk into a major role from day one in Tuscaloosa. The Tide’s offensive system is tailor-made for someone with his shooting ability, slashing skills, and court vision.
Plus, Alabama’s need for a wing becomes even more pressing if Rylan Griffen, currently back in the transfer portal after a season at Kansas, doesn’t return. Coward could be the final piece in a high-octane lineup and get featured in a system that values spacing, tempo, and shot creation.
What’s Next?
Coward is expected to visit either Alabama or Duke soon, and where he chooses to visit first could give insight into his current lean. Despite earlier reports from Jeff Goodman suggesting Alabama held the lead, sources say Duke has closed the gap — and that NBA development could be playing a major role in that shift.
The final decision may not come until closer to the June 15th deadline, the last day Coward can withdraw from the NBA Draft and retain college eligibility. Until then, both programs will continue to make their pitch, hoping to land a player who could shift the balance of power next season.
