Former Furman forward Noah Gurley entered the transfer portal seeking an opportunity to play at a higher level.
While he anticipated high majors to call, the attraction for his services has surpassed his expectations. Over a week later, he’s between eight schools: Miami, Auburn, Florida, Alabama, San Diego State, Duke, Tennessee, Marquette.
“It was way quicker than I expected,” Gurley told 305 Sports over the phone Tuesday. “When I put my name in the portal, I didn’t expect to get so much love from a lot of coaches. It was shocking, it’s a blessing. I’m glad the process is going smoothly.”
Gurley spent the past three seasons under coach Bob Richey, who he says has assisted him through this process. The 6-foot-8, 215-pound power forward comes off a notable junior campaign, averaging 15.4 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game.
Coaches have taken note, making him one of the hottest names on the market.
“I bring experience, a winning culture, my voice, energy and effort,” Gurley said on what he brings to a school. “On the court, I feel like I’m very versatile. I feel like I can be a mismatch problem. Off the court, I’m a big team guy.”
Miami head coach Jim Larranaga and assistant Bill Courtney have been the ones invested in recruiting Gurley. They’ll meet in a zoom meeting Wednesday, along with the rest of the staff.
“They really want to bring me in and develop me,” Gurley said. “They feel like the team is already good enough to make a run in the ACC, so they’re looking for me to come in and add to that.”
Along with the coaches, sophomore guard Harlond Beverly has approached Gurley on coming to UM.
“We actually talked on the phone,” he said.” [Harlond] said that they really just had an unlucky year with all the injuries. Going there could be a championship team, he feels like.”
Gurley will decide this upcoming Sunday, noting that he’s looking for a school that meets his standards.
“I’m looking for a good culture within the program, a good location and school,” he said. “I’m looking for an opportunity to play and to continue my education.”
