Clemson transfer forward RJ Godfrey signs with Arizona
· Yahoo Sports
Former Clemson forward RJ Godfrey has committed to Arizona via the NCAA Transfer Portal, On3’s Pete Nakos reports. It’s a big get for Tommy Lloyd and the Wildcats ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Godfrey played high school basketball at North Gwinnett, where he was a three-star prospect. He was the No. 188 overall recruit in the 2022 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted algorithm that compiles all major recruiting media services.
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Additionally, Godfrey’s commitment comes after months of uncertainty surrounding his college future. The former Tigers standout was one of several players involved in a lawsuit against the NCAA seeking an additional season of eligibility following the organization’s recent rule changes.
According to The Greenville News, Godfrey joined a group lawsuit filed on July 9 arguing that the NCAA unfairly denied an extra year of eligibility to athletes who exhausted their fourth season during the 2025-26 academic year. The NCAA approved a new rule in June allowing future athletes five seasons of competition over five years, but did not extend that benefit to players who had already completed their eligibility.
With the lawsuit ultimately successful, Godfrey will suit up for Lloyd and Arizona instead of returning to Clemson for another season. Prior to announcing his commitment, The Greenville Newsreported that Oklahoma, Arkansas and LSU had also expressed interest in Godfrey if he received another year of eligibility.
Moreover, Godfrey is coming off one of the best seasons of his collegiate career after returning to Clemson for the 2025-26 campaign. He led the Tigers in scoring at 12.0 points per game while averaging 5.3 rebounds, helping Clemson return to the NCAA Tournament.
His second stint in Clemson followed a one-year stop at Georgia during the 2024-25 season. Across two stints with Brad Brownell’s program, Godfrey appeared in 104 games, making 33 starts while averaging 7.2 points and 3.6 rebounds per contest. He also shot an efficient 60% from the field during his Clemson career.
Before pursuing another college opportunity, Godfrey tested the professional waters by participating in pre-NBA Draft workouts. However, he was not selected in the 2026 NBA Draft and did not sign an undrafted free-agent contract, leaving the door open for a potential return to college if granted eligibility.
Arizona now appears poised to benefit if that happens. The Wildcats add an experienced, versatile frontcourt player with NCAA Tournament experience and proven production at the high-major level.
To keep up with the latest players on the move, check out On3’s Transfer Portal wire. The On3 Transfer Portal Instagram account and X (formerly Twitter) account are excellent resources to stay up to date with the latest moves.