Duke expected to keep all eligible players, making one player’s portal entry a surprise.

Duke women’s basketball, known for its roster stability in recent years, is facing an unexpected change with sophomore Oluchi Okananwa entering the transfer portal. The move surprised many, especially after Duke appeared set to retain all eligible players, continuing its trend of only losing upperclassmen who had exhausted their eligibility.

Okananwa, a standout guard from Boston, reportedly visited Maryland after entering the portal over the weekend. Her decision was described by ESPN’s Charlie Creme as “one of the most surprising portal entries this transfer cycle.” In her two seasons with the Blue Devils, she earned ACC Sixth Player of the Year as a freshman and was named ACC Tournament MVP this year. Known for her high energy and two-way play, she was key in helping Duke reach the Sweet 16 in 2024 and the Elite Eight this season.

She played a critical role in Duke’s run to its first ACC Championship in over a decade, posting a 22-point, 10-rebound performance in the title game against top-seeded N.C. State. She also recorded a double-double (12 points, 12 rebounds) in the Sweet 16 win over North Carolina.

In her sophomore campaign, Okananwa averaged 9.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.5 steals, finishing the season with 20 double-digit scoring games and five games with at least 10 rebounds.

Despite her departure, Duke is expected to return much of its core lineup, including Ashlon Jackson, Jadyn Donovan, Toby Fournier, Delaney Thomas, and Taina Mair. Okananwa is the fourth reported Blue Devil to enter the portal this offseason.