UConn's Jaylin Stewart enters transfer portal after 3 seasons

The Seattle native and national champion is seeking more playing time elsewhere.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 4:36pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fragmented movements and actions of a basketball player, rendered in vibrant shades of blue, white, green, and gold to represent the UConn Huskies.Jaylin Stewart's decision to leave UConn for the transfer portal reflects the challenges mid-major programs face in retaining top talent.Seattle Today

Jaylin Stewart, a 6-foot-7 wing who won a national championship with the UConn men's basketball team, has entered the NCAA transfer portal after three seasons in Storrs. According to his stepfather Jamar Jones, Stewart's decision to leave was difficult, as UConn has always been 'home' for the Seattle native. However, with limited playing time this past season and no guarantees of a bigger role next year, Stewart is looking to showcase his skills at another program in hopes of boosting his chances of reaching the NBA.

Why it matters

Stewart's departure is a significant loss for the UConn program, as he was part of the Huskies' 2023 national championship team. His decision to enter the transfer portal highlights the challenges mid-major programs face in retaining top talent, especially when playing time and professional aspirations are factors.

The details

After averaging just 4.2 points and 2.6 rebounds in 16.2 minutes per game this past season, Stewart met with UConn head coach Dan Hurley, and the two had an emotional discussion about Stewart's future. Hurley and the coaching staff were honest that they could not guarantee Stewart a much bigger role next season, leading the 6-foot-7 wing to explore other options. Stewart has already been contacted by over a dozen schools, including some rival Big East programs.

  • Stewart missed over a month this season due to a knee injury and had a minor procedure to remove bone chips from his knee.
  • Stewart sat out the entire Big East Tournament and UConn's first two NCAA tournament wins over Furman and UCLA, though he had been cleared to play before that.
  • Stewart returned to play just three first-half minutes against Michigan State, five minutes against Duke, seven minutes in the Final Four win over Illinois, and nine minutes in the national championship game loss to Michigan.

The players

Jaylin Stewart

A 6-foot-7 wing who won a national championship with the UConn men's basketball team in 2023 but is now entering the NCAA transfer portal in search of more playing time.

Dan Hurley

The head coach of the UConn men's basketball team, who had an emotional meeting with Stewart about his limited role and future playing time.

Jamar Jones

Stewart's stepfather, who helped raise him since he was two years old and says there are no hard feelings towards UConn, but that Stewart's goal is to showcase his skills to reach the NBA.

Jayden Ross

Stewart's three-year roommate at UConn, who is 'like his brother' according to Jones and recently announced his return for his senior season.

Braylon Mullins

A UConn player who is still deciding whether to return to Storrs or go pro, which could have impacted Stewart's playing time next season.

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What they’re saying

“'I just hope he shines, flourishes and has fun. He had fun at UConn. There was never anything negative about fans, coaches, teammates, anyone, out of his mouth. The parents looked out for him like their own son when I wasn't there.'”

— Jamar Jones, Stewart's stepfather

“'Luke was the reason why Jaylin went to UConn.'”

— Jamar Jones, Stewart's stepfather

“'If a UConn game's on, I'll still be cheering on Silas and Solo and Jayden and Braylon. There's no bad tension or anything.'”

— Jamar Jones, Stewart's stepfather

What’s next

Stewart has already been contacted by more than a dozen schools, including a few rival Big East programs, as he looks to find a new home where he can earn more playing time and showcase his skills ahead of a potential professional career.

The takeaway

Stewart's decision to enter the transfer portal after winning a national championship at UConn highlights the challenges mid-major programs face in retaining top talent, especially when playing time and NBA aspirations are factors. While it was a difficult choice for the Seattle native, he is seeking a fresh start where he can have a bigger role and improve his professional prospects.