After a highly successful season at Memphis, star PJ Haggerty opted to transfer. However, a flurry of point guards entering the transfer portal put his desirability in doubt. While some rumored that returning to Memphis could be possible, Dug McDaniel committed to the Tigers, ending any hopes of Haggerty’s return. After weeks of uncertainty, only one school remains in the race: NC State. After originally reporting that NC State and Ole Miss were involved, Jeff Goodman reported that Ole Miss was out. Haggerty is left with only one current option for his transfer decision. So, what would Haggerty bring to NC State? How would he fit on the roster? Why would Haggerty choose NC State? Let’s dive in.
Ole Miss is now out of the PJ Haggerty sweepstakes, source told @TheFieldOf68.
I’m told by one source that Ole Miss never actually spoke to Haggerty through the process.
NC State certainly appears as the clear-cut frontrunner. https://t.co/uGCnmEEumD
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) May 2, 2025
PJ Haggerty Left with One School for Transfer Decision: NC State
What Could Be Affecting PJ Haggerty’s Transfer Decision?
The most important factor has been the lack of interest. Few teams have been interested in Haggerty because of the price demands. Many big programs opted to go after point guards with a smaller price tag, while others bypassed a true point guard entirely. Most teams didn’t want to even deal with the drama of harsh negotiations, so Haggerty hasn’t been a top target despite his incredible numbers. One team has been at the forefront of interest: NC State.
The Wolfpack has lost out on many top recruits, such as Derrion Reid and Mackenzie Mgbako. Haggerty’s transfer decision could come down to his fit with the roster: Haggerty would be the clear star. NC State hasn’t hit on any big recruits, so they have more money to spend on Haggerty. The Wolfpack doesn’t have the money that bigger programs do, but that doesn’t mean they can’t provide him with a good offer to be their star.
Haggerty would be the clear star of NC State and most teams he would play on. However, many teams that could offer him four million dollars have been out of the race since the beginning. NC State is the only school that is in a power conference, has a surplus of money, and promises Haggerty a chance at being a star. It’s a great fit for both, this late in the portal.
How Would Haggerty Fit with NC State?
Haggerty is a star. NC State rebuilt its roster with several role players. Haggerty could be the primary ball-handler, but he will run the show either way. Tre Holloman could run point guard, but they both would likely share time. Haggerty would immediately become the best scorer on the roster. He spreads the floor well, opening the door for every other player.
Haggerty could be the missing piece the Wolfpack needs for an NCAA Tournament run. Role players are effective, but without a star, the team struggles. Haggerty is one player who would bring the best out of each of these players. Will he put aside any ego from the whole transfer process? I wouldn’t worry about that. He wants to play in the NBA. NC State is the best option to prove he deserves a chance at the next level. Haggerty took a risk and has one option left in his transfer decision. Time will tell whether he was better off in Memphis.
Photo credit: © Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
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