By KDA Sports
Published: Mar 25, 2025 · 2:52 PM EDT
In a move that marks a turning point for the Missouri Tigers, junior forward Aidan Shaw has confirmed his decision to enter the transfer portal after spending three seasons with the program.
Shaw, who has been an important contributor for Mizzou under coach Dennis Gates, made the announcement on Tuesday via social media. “I would like to sincerely express my gratitude to the Mizzou staff for the opportunity to play at the University of Missouri,” he wrote. “Over the past three years, I have had truly remarkable experiences filled with unforgettable moments… Although it is a difficult decision, I believe it is important to prioritize my future. After careful consideration and discussions with my family, I have decided to enter the transfer portal.”
The decision comes on the heels of one of the nation’s most impressive comeback seasons for the Tigers. Despite falling in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament, the team showed resilience and promise under Gates, setting high expectations for the upcoming 2025-26 season.
Aidan Shaw was a highly regarded prospect out of high school—a 4-star recruit ranked among the top-70 players nationally from Kansas. He chose Mizzou over offers from prominent programs including Kansas, Maryland, Iowa, and Arkansas. In his sophomore season, Shaw was on track for a breakthrough, starting 10 games while averaging 3.6 points and 3.8 rebounds in 16 minutes per game. However, his role diminished during his most recent season, where he appeared in 28 games (without a start) and averaged just 9.2 minutes per game.
With Shaw’s departure, coach Dennis Gates and the coaching staff now face the challenge of reconfiguring their roster as they prepare for the next season. The loss of a player with Shaw’s potential is significant, but Gates remains optimistic about the program’s ability to adapt and continue its upward trajectory.
As Shaw embarks on the next chapter of his collegiate career, the Tigers’ front office will be closely watching where he lands next. His future destination could play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of college basketball in the coming years.
Paul Harvey covers SEC football and college sports from Atlanta.
