Penn State Basketball Star Kayden Mingo to Enter Transfer Portal

Sophomore guard looks to continue career at new program after two seasons with Nittany Lions.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 4:23pm

Penn State sophomore guard Kayden Mingo has announced his intention to enter the NCAA transfer portal, opening up the possibility for him to continue his college basketball career at a different program. Mingo was a key contributor for the Nittany Lions over the past two seasons, averaging double-digit scoring numbers and providing valuable perimeter defense.

Why it matters

Mingo's decision to transfer represents a significant loss for the Penn State men's basketball team, which is coming off a disappointing season and looking to rebuild under second-year head coach Mike Rhoades. Retaining talented players is crucial for the program's long-term success, so Mingo's departure is a setback as Rhoades works to turn the Nittany Lions into an NCAA Tournament contender.

The details

A 6-foot-3 guard from Erie, Pennsylvania, Mingo averaged 12.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game for Penn State this past season. He was a key two-way player for the Nittany Lions, providing scoring punch and lockdown perimeter defense. Mingo's decision to enter the transfer portal comes after Penn State finished the 2025-26 season with a 14-17 record and failed to make the postseason.

  • Mingo announced his intention to enter the transfer portal on April 8, 2026.
  • He has played the last two seasons for the Penn State Nittany Lions.

The players

Kayden Mingo

A 6-foot-3 sophomore guard who was a key contributor for the Penn State men's basketball team over the past two seasons.

Mike Rhoades

The second-year head coach of the Penn State men's basketball team, tasked with rebuilding the program after a disappointing 2025-26 season.

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What they’re saying

“Kayden has been a valuable member of our program, and we appreciate his contributions over the past two years. We wish him the best as he explores his options moving forward.”

— Mike Rhoades, Head Coach, Penn State Men's Basketball

What’s next

Mingo will now enter the NCAA transfer portal, where he will be able to connect with other programs and explore opportunities to continue his college basketball career. Penn State will need to quickly identify potential replacements for Mingo's production and defensive presence on the roster.

The takeaway

Mingo's decision to transfer represents a significant challenge for the Penn State men's basketball program as it looks to build momentum under Coach Rhoades. Retaining talented players is crucial, and Mingo's departure is a setback that the Nittany Lions will need to address through the transfer portal and recruiting.