Top USC scorer Desmond Claude transfers to Washington

Senior guard Desmond Claude, who led Southern California in scoring last season, said Sunday that he will be joining the Washington program.

The 6-foot-6 Claude averaged 15.8 points, 4.2 assists and 3.5 rebounds in 33 games (32 starts) last season. He reportedly chose the Huskies over Alabama and Gonzaga.

Claude announced his decision on Instagram.

"After a long and thorough process of evaluating each school recruiting me, I have decided to sign at the University of Washington," Claude wrote. "I am a firm believer with the recruiting class coming in and the returning players, we can compete with the very best, which was very important to me.

"I am excited to get to work with my new teammates and staff in Seattle Husky. Go Dawgs!!"

The decision by Claude means both of USC's top two players transferred to Washington. Wesley Yates, who was second with a 14.1 scoring average and shot a stellar 43.9 percent from 3-point range as a freshman last season, announced his move to the Huskies in April.

Last season was Claude's only one with the Trojans. He played his first two seasons at Xavier and enjoyed a breakout season in 2023-24 when he averaged 16.6 points and was named Big East Most Improved Player.

Washington (13-18, 4-16 Big Ten) finished last in the 18-team Big Ten last season under first-year coach Danny Sprinkle.

--Field Level Media