USC leading scorer Desmond Claude set for official visit with Florida basketball
Florida basketball is making a major move in the transfer portal. USC Trojans transfer guard Desmond Claude, the Trojans' leading scorer from the 2024-25 season, is set to take an official visit to Gainesville this week, according to Swamp247.
Claude averaged 15.8 points, 3.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game during the 2024-25 campaign, establishing himself as one of the top available players in the portal. Florida is working to finalize the details of his visit, with current plans to have Claude arrive Wednesday and begin his official visit on Thursday.
Landing Claude would be a significant addition for head coach Todd Golden's Gators as they look to reload the roster for another title run.
Claude's combination of scoring ability, playmaking skills and Big Ten experience make him one of the most coveted guards still available.
Taking a look at Claude
A 6-foot-6-inch junior guard from New Haven, Connecticut, Claude brings an impressive skill set to the transfer market. After starting his college career at Xavier, Claude transferred to USC, where he earned All-Big Ten Honorable Mention honors and was named to the NABC All-Pacific District Second Team.
He led the Trojans in scoring in 2024-25 with 523 total points. Claude also posted two 30-point games, including 31 points in an upset win over No. 13 Illinois.
Over his career, Claude has amassed 1,255 points and 313 assists, developing into one of the most consistent and dynamic guards in the country.
What's next
Claude's official visit will be critical in Florida's pursuit, with other programs also pushing hard for the guard. If the Gators can close strong, Claude could become one of the headline additions of the Gators' 2024-25 offseason.
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