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Could Xavier Star Follow Sean Miller to Texas Longhorns?

The Texas Longhorns have made a significant move in college basketball by bringing in Sean Miller as their new head coach. With Miller’s departure from Xavier, speculation has arisen regarding which players might follow him to Austin. One name that stands out is Ryan Conwell, a standout guard who played a crucial role for the Xavier Musketeers. With the transfer portal becoming an essential part of modern college basketball, could Conwell be the next player to make the move to Texas?

Ryan Conwell’s Journey and Impact at Xavier

Ryan Conwell has had a unique collegiate basketball career. He started his journey at Indiana University before transferring to Illinois and then finding a home at Xavier. Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Conwell emerged as a vital component of Xavier’s success. Averaging 16.5 points per game, he demonstrated his scoring prowess, earning All-Big East Third Team honors. His ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with his defensive intensity, made him one of the most valuable players in the conference.

Following Miller’s exit from Xavier, Conwell entered the NCAA transfer portal. Notably, he included a “Do Not Contact” tag, indicating that he might already have a destination in mind. This has fueled speculation that Texas could be his next stop, considering his strong connection with Miller and the Longhorns’ need for a high-impact guard.

Why Texas Makes Sense for Conwell

1. Familiarity with Sean Miller’s System

One of the most compelling reasons for Conwell to consider Texas is his familiarity with Sean Miller’s coaching philosophy. Having thrived under Miller’s system at Xavier, Conwell knows what to expect in terms of playing style, expectations, and development. The transition to a new program can be challenging, but having a coach he trusts could make it much smoother.

2. Immediate Opportunity for Playing Time

Texas is undergoing a major roster transformation, with several players entering the transfer portal, including wing Devon Pryor. This leaves room for an experienced guard like Conwell to step in and make an impact right away. With his scoring ability and defensive tenacity, he could play a significant role in Miller’s backcourt from day one.

3. Competing at a Higher Level

While the Big East is a strong conference, playing in the Big 12 offers even more exposure and competition. The conference is known for its tough matchups and national prominence. If Conwell wants to showcase his talent on a bigger stage and improve his chances of making it to the NBA, transferring to Texas could be a strategic move.

4. NIL and Financial Incentives

The rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals has changed college athletics. Texas has one of the most well-funded NIL collectives in the nation, providing players with lucrative endorsement opportunities. A move to Austin could significantly benefit Conwell financially, making it an attractive destination beyond just basketball.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite the strong case for Conwell joining the Longhorns, there are several factors he must consider before making a decision.

1. Competition for Minutes

While Texas has open roster spots, they will also be recruiting heavily from both the high school ranks and the transfer portal. Conwell will have to evaluate whether he will receive the same playing time he had at Xavier.

2. Adjusting to a New System

Even though Miller is the coach, the dynamics of playing in the Big 12 will be different from what Conwell experienced in the Big East. He will need to adjust to new teammates, schemes, and competition levels.

3. Other Potential Destinations

Conwell’s “Do Not Contact” tag suggests that he already has specific schools in mind. While Texas is a logical fit, he may also be considering other programs that offer a better immediate role or long-term development opportunities.

Other Players Who Could Follow Miller

While Conwell is the most talked-about potential transfer, he isn’t the only Xavier player who might consider following Miller. Another name to watch is Nyck Lewis, a highly touted four-star point guard who initially committed to Xavier. Lewis has been granted his release and is back on the recruiting market. Given his previous commitment to Miller, Texas could emerge as a strong contender for his services.

Sean Miller’s Influence on the Transfer Portal

Miller’s move to Texas is expected to have ripple effects across the transfer portal. Players who have developed under him or have been recruited by him in the past may be interested in following him to Austin. Additionally, his reputation as a player developer makes Texas a more attractive destination for transfers looking to elevate their game.

Miller himself has acknowledged the difficulty of leaving Xavier, stating, “It was a major struggle for me.” This statement underscores the strong relationships he built with his players, which could lead to some of them considering Texas as their next stop.

Final Thoughts

The transfer portal era has made college basketball more dynamic than ever, and Sean Miller’s move to Texas has added another layer of intrigue. Ryan Conwell stands out as a prime candidate to follow his former coach to Austin, given his talent, familiarity with Miller’s system, and Texas’ need for experienced guards. While no official decision has been made, the speculation surrounding Conwell’s future will only intensify in the coming weeks.

If Conwell does choose Texas, it could be a game-changing acquisition for the Longhorns. His scoring ability, defensive skills, and experience in high-pressure situations would make him a valuable addition to the roster. Whether or not he ultimately makes the move, his decision will be one of the most closely watched storylines of the offseason.

As Texas builds its roster under Miller, Longhorns fans will be eager to see which players join the program and how they fit into the team’s vision for the future. If Conwell does end up in burnt orange, it will be a strong signal that Texas is ready to compete at the highest level under their new coach.