UNLV Basketball Star James Evans Jr. Withdraws from Transfer Portal

Evans will remain with the Runnin' Rebels for the 2025-26 season.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 5:38am

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James Evans Jr., a standout basketball player for the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) Runnin' Rebels, has decided to withdraw from the NCAA transfer portal and will be returning to the team for the 2025-26 season, according to a report from Tobias Bass of The Athletic.

Why it matters

Evans is a key player for the UNLV basketball program, and his decision to stay with the team provides stability and continuity as they look to build on their recent success. Retaining talented players is crucial for mid-major programs like UNLV to remain competitive in the crowded college basketball landscape.

The details

Evans, a junior guard, had previously entered his name into the NCAA transfer portal, sparking speculation about his future. However, he has now decided to withdraw from the portal and commit to playing for UNLV next season. This is a significant boost for the Runnin' Rebels, who will be able to count on Evans' scoring, playmaking, and leadership as they aim to contend for a conference championship and a spot in the NCAA Tournament.

  • Evans entered the transfer portal in early March 2026.
  • Evans has now withdrawn from the transfer portal and will remain at UNLV for the 2025-26 season.

The players

James Evans Jr.

A junior guard for the UNLV Runnin' Rebels basketball team, known for his scoring ability and leadership on the court.

UNLV Runnin' Rebels

The men's basketball team of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, a mid-major program that competes in the Mountain West Conference.

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What they’re saying

“Staying put at UNLV”

— Tobias Bass, Reporter, The Athletic (The Athletic)

What’s next

Evans' decision to remain at UNLV will be a significant boost for the team as they prepare for the upcoming 2025-26 season. The Runnin' Rebels will look to build on their recent success and make a push for a conference championship and NCAA Tournament berth with Evans leading the way.

The takeaway

James Evans Jr.'s decision to withdraw from the transfer portal and stay at UNLV is a win for the Runnin' Rebels program. Retaining talented players like Evans is crucial for mid-major programs to remain competitive, and this move provides stability and continuity as UNLV looks to build on their recent achievements.