Kanaan Carlyle’s decision to enter the transfer portal on Wednesday afternoon marks a significant development for Indiana University basketball. The former Stanford transfer, who started the 2023-24 season as a key player for the Hoosiers, is now seeking a fresh start elsewhere. His departure comes after a season of challenges, leading many to wonder what ultimately prompted his decision and what lies ahead for the talented guard.
Carlyle began the season as a starter for IU but soon found his role diminished. Over the course of the season, he made six starts in 25 games played. While he contributed in several areas, his performance didn’t meet the expectations many had for him. Averaging just 4.0 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, Carlyle struggled to find consistency on the offensive end. His shooting percentages—28.9% from the field, 24.3% from three-point range, and 42.9% from the free-throw line—were far below what he had hoped for and what the team needed.
This drop in production is likely a key factor in Carlyle’s decision to enter the transfer portal. After transferring to IU from Stanford, where he had an impressive freshman campaign, Carlyle came to Bloomington with high expectations. At Stanford, he was named to the All-Pac-12 Freshman Team, averaging 11.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game. His success in the Pac-12 created excitement around his potential to make an immediate impact at Indiana.
However, the transition to IU didn’t go as planned. Despite early promise, Carlyle’s struggles to adjust to the system and find his shooting rhythm limited his impact on the floor. As a result, his playing time decreased, and ultimately, he found himself seeking a new opportunity.
Carlyle is now the sixth scholarship player from IU’s 2024-25 roster to enter the transfer portal, joining a growing list that includes Myles Rice, Gabe Cupps, Malik Reneau, Mackenzie Mgbako, and Jakai Newton. As of Wednesday afternoon, only Bryson Tucker and Dallas James remain with the team.
As Carlyle looks to continue his college basketball journey, the next steps for him will likely involve finding a program where he can regain his confidence and showcase the talents that made him an All-Pac-12 Freshman. His decision to leave Indiana is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college basketball, where talent, fit, and opportunity can all play significant roles in shaping a player’s career.
