UTEP's Elijah Jones enters transfer portal after breakout junior season

The 6-foot-8 forward averaged 13.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game in 2025-26.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:05am

Elijah Jones, a 6-foot-8 forward who spent the last three seasons at UTEP, has entered the transfer portal after a breakout junior campaign. Jones averaged 13.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game in 2025-26 while shooting 47.9% from the field and 38.6% from 3-point range.

Why it matters

Jones' combination of size, scoring ability, and defensive production could make him an attractive option for high-major programs looking to bolster their frontcourt. As a player with one year of eligibility remaining, he provides an immediate impact opportunity for teams in need of a versatile forward.

The details

After playing limited minutes his first two seasons at UTEP, Jones emerged as a key contributor this past year, starting all 31 games and seeing his playing time increase to 28 minutes per contest. He showcased an impressive offensive skillset, knocking down 38.6% of his 3-point attempts while also using his 6-foot-8 frame to score in the paint and protect the rim on the defensive end.

  • Jones played three seasons at UTEP from 2023-24 through 2025-26.
  • He entered the transfer portal on April 6, 2026.

The players

Elijah Jones

A 6-foot-8 forward who spent the last three seasons at UTEP, where he had a breakout junior campaign in 2025-26.

UTEP

The university where Elijah Jones played for the past three seasons before entering the transfer portal.

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What they’re saying

“Elijah Jones has spent all three years of his college career at UTEP. After a breakout junior season, he looks to take his talents to a high major school. His game should translate pretty well to that level.”

— Sam Kayser, Reporter

What’s next

Jones will now explore opportunities at high-major programs, with UCLA among the potential suitors as they look to fill open scholarships on their roster.

The takeaway

Elijah Jones' decision to enter the transfer portal after a standout junior season at UTEP presents an intriguing opportunity for high-major programs in need of a versatile frontcourt presence. His combination of size, scoring ability, and defensive production could make him a valuable addition for teams looking to bolster their roster through the transfer market.