Utah sophomore forward Both Gach announced on Thursday that he would transfer. While Both Gach is known for having the unquestioned best name in College Basketball, whatever program gets him will be getting a good player. Last year Gach finished the season averaging 10.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, while those numbers look pretty good he only shot 39.7% from the floor and 25% from three.
Obviously, this is less than ideal for Larry Krystkowiak and the Utah program as you never want to lose your second leading scorer, losing Gach isn’t the end of the world. The Utes will still have a good 1-2 punch with Timmy Allen and Rylan Jones, plus the team can move a better shooter in Alfonso Plummer into the starting lineup. Larry Krystkowiak’s bunch still look like a potential NCAA Tournament team.
Both Gach did declare for the NBA Draft earlier this offseason but will transfer. While Gach as a prospect seems interesting, he will need to develop his shot in order to make it at the next level. While getting a waiver would be good, sitting out a year and improving upon that could be good for him long-term. Now let’s look at a few potential places for Gach to land.
San Diego State: Gach was recruited by the Aztecs back in high school but he eventually chose the Utes. Brian Dutcher could look to use Malachi Flynn as an example in order to help recruit Gach to the program. Gach would almost certainly sit out next season but with Matt Mitchell and Jordan Schakel graduating, he will be given a chance to play a huge role for the following season.
Minnesota: If Gach is looking to potentially get a waiver, being from Austin Minnesota would probably be his best chance to play right away. At Minnesota Gach would probably slide in as a small-ball 4 man, which is a good spot for him. Plus playing in the Big Ten probably gets him a bit more notoriety.
Saint Mary’s: The Gaels appear to be in for a rebuild this season, which likely means that they could be willing to take on a Both Gach for a year. Gach could move into a Malik Fitts type role, plus transferring down a level gives him a chance to dominate.