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18 Jan, 2023
18 Jan, 2023
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Michigan transfer Sam Walters commits to SMU
By Sam Kayser
SMU men's basketball has added another piece to their roster for next season with the addition of Michigan transfer Sam Walters, a 6-foot-10 forward known for his elite three-point shooting. Walters, who began his collegiate career at Alabama before transferring to Michigan, brings a unique combination of size and perimeter shooting that will be invaluable to the Mustangs roster.
Michigan transfer Sam Walters has signed with SMU. Walters initially committed to Mississippi State last week.
— Jeff Borzello (@jeffborzello) April 22, 2025
Latest frontcourt shuffle for SMU. Wichita State transfer Corey Washington committed over the weekend, Nana Owusu-Anane decommitted yesterday, now Walters signs.
This commitment comes shortly after the unexpected decommitment of Nana Owusu-Anane yesterday, a 6-foot-8 forward from Brown University. Owusu-Anane had initially committed to SMU as a graduate transfer earlier this spring, bringing with him impressive stats from the 2023-24 season, including averages of 14.7 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. His decision to reopen his recruitment left a void in SMU's frontcourt, one that Walters is poised to fill.
During his freshman year at Alabama, Walters averaged 5.4 points and 2.4 rebounds per game, showcasing his efficiency by shooting 39.4% from three-point range on a little over three attempts per game. His ability to stretch the floor is complemented by his quick, lefty release and deep shooting range, making him a constant threat from beyond the three-point line.
This season at Michigan, Walters was hampered by a back injury, which forced him to miss the final 14 games of the season, including Michigan’s run in the NCAA Tournament. Despite the setback, Walters is expected to be fully healthy for the upcoming season. His recovery is progressing well, and he is anticipated to be ready to contribute at full strength when the new season begins.
Walters' addition is a strategic move for SMU, especially in light of Owusu-Anane's departure. His skill set aligns well with the team's needs, providing both offensive firepower and defensive flexibility. As the Mustangs prepare for the upcoming season, Walters is expected to play a significant role in their pursuit of an ACC Championship.
Hop on the new Locker Room Access SMU forum and let us know what you think of Andy Enfield’s latest addition. And take the time to learn about our partner Fan Fund, the credit card that gives back to your favorite student-athletes.
(Featured Image Credit: Michigan Athletics
Wichita State transfer Corey Washington Commits...
By Sam Kayser
In a significant development for SMU Basketball and Andy Enfield, Corey Washington, a standout forward from Wichita State, has committed to SMU, he told Locker Room Access. Washington's decision to join the Mustangs comes amidst interest from several high-major programs, including Mississippi State, where he also visited earlier this week.
NEWS: Wichita State transfer Corey Washington has committed to SMU, he told @LeagueRDY.
— Sam Kayser (@247HSHoops) April 19, 2025
Washington began his career playing two seasons at Saint Peter’s before playing this past season at Wichita State. Named Second Team All-AAC this season.
He averaged 13.7PPG, 7.5RPG and… pic.twitter.com/8IYovbYI9s
About Corey Washington
Washington's collegiate basketball journey began at Saint Peter's University, where he made an enormous impact from the jump. As a freshman, he earned All-MAAC Rookie Team honors, averaging 6.8 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. His sophomore season saw a serious uptick in productiveness, as he averaged 15.9 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, culminating in All-MAAC First Team recognition and helping lead the Peacocks to the NCAA Tournament.
Transferring to Wichita State last spring, Washington continued his upward trajectory. During the 2024–25 season, he averaged 13.7 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, showcasing his defensive versatility, high-level rebounding and his ability to score the ball at the rim. He was named Second-Team All-AAC this season and was one of the top newcomers in the entire conference.
SMU's Portal Class
Washington's commitment to SMU marks another major acquisition for the Mustangs after picking up Jacksonville State transfer Jaron Pierre Jr. earlier this week. Andy Enfield, who was the head coach at USC for 11 seasons prior to taking the helm at SMU, had a solid first season in Dallas, and certainly appears to have upped the talent level for his second year. Pierre Jr., Washington and Nana Owusu-Anane are the three players that have already committed to playing for SMU next season.
As the Mustangs gear up for their second season in the ACC, Washington's presence and productivity will almost certainly play a pivotal role in the team's success in 2025-26. Landing another high-level transfer like Washington proves that SMU is more than serious about competing in the ACC next season. For a program on the rise, landing a proven difference-maker like Washington is more than just a statement,. it's a signal that SMU intends to contend for an ACC Title in Year 2 of the Enfield era.
Follow Mustangs recruiting all offseason long on the new Locker Room Access SMU forum, sign up for free and join the discussion. And take the time to learn about our partner Fan Fund, the credit card that gives back to your favorite student-athletes.
(Featured Image Credit: Wichita State)
Jaron Pierre Jr Sees Perfect Fit at SMU
By Houston Wilson
SMU made headlines Monday night with the commitment of Jacksonville State transfer Jaron Pierre, Jr. The 6-foot-5 guard is coming off an impressive season, averaging 21.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. After visiting campus over the weekend, it became clear that SMU was the right place for him. Pierre caught up with Locker Room Access to talk about why he chose SMU and more.
“The fit made it the perfect choice,” Pierre said. “The system and how they plan on using me made too much sense. The expectation is that I’ll be used very similarly to how I was at Jacksonville State.”
Pierre spoke in more detail about his projected role in Andy Enfield’s system.
“I’m expected to be on the floor for 35 minutes next year,” he said. “The pieces around me are only going to help me and help the team overall. The coaches explained I’ll have freedom and flexibility, which means I’ll get to create not just for myself but for others — making the right plays to help the team win. Everything is going to look really similar to last year, just at a higher level in the ACC.”
While SMU’s facilities certainly caught his eye during the visit, it was the connection with the coaching staff that left the biggest impression.
“Obviously the facilities were amazing. When you get to this level, they all are,” Pierre said. “But it was really what the coaches were selling me on — the fit, the style of play. Once we met the staff in person, we knew this was the place. This is the staff that can help take me to the next level.” SMU fans can expect a high-impact addition to the roster when Pierre takes the court next season.
“They’re getting a fierce competitor,” he said. “A true three-level scorer, a tough player who knows how to make the right plays and reads — and someone who’s willing to put it all on the line to help the team win and make the NCAA Tournament.”
Pierre is the second transfer to commit to SMU this offseason after they landed Brown transfer Nana Owusu-Anane earlier in March. Andy Enfield has another top target visiting Tuesday, Wichita State transfer forward Corey Washington.
Stay tuned for recruiting coverage all offseason long. Come sign up and join the discussion on the new Locker Room Access SMU forum. And check out our partner Fan Fund, the credit card that gives back to your favorite student-athletes.
