Just minutes after the conclusion of Monday’s national championship game, BYU suffered its first transfer portal departure of the offseason.
Cougars center Xavion Staton will exit the program and enter the portal, he announced Monday night via social media.
“I’m incredibly grateful for my time at this University and for everything it has poured into me, on and off the court,” Staton wrote. “This past season has been a year of growth, discipline, and development beyond just basketball. I believe everything happens for a reason, and every step is part of the path I’m meant to walk. I want to sincerely thank my coaches, teammates, and the entire program for pushing me, believing in me, and helping me grow every day.
“... With that being said, I will be entering the transfer portal as I take the next step in my career. I’m excited for what’s ahead and fully trusting God in this next chapter.”
According to Travis Branham of 247 Sports, Staton entered the portal with a “do not contact” tag, meaning he likely already has a preferred destination in mind.
The highest-rated recruit in BYU program history at the time of his commitment, injuries limited Staton to just nine games as a freshman for the Cougars this past season, posting averages of 0.6 points, 0.4 rebounds and 0.6 blocks.
The Las Vegas native was 247 Sports’ No. 37 overall recruit in the class of 2025, having chosen BYU over the likes of Michigan, UNLV, Stanford and a number of other notable programs.
With Keba Keita’s graduation and Staton’s departure, the only big man currently on BYU’s roster is Abdullah Ahmed, making the position a portal priority for Kevin Young and his staff this offseason.