Florida Atlantic Lands Former Indiana Guard Kanaan Carlyle in Late Transfer Portal Addition
In a surprising yet strategic move, Florida Atlantic University (FAU) secured a significant late addition to its men’s basketball roster: former Indiana guard Kanaan Carlyle. The 6-foot-2 playmaker, who spent his freshman season in Bloomington, announced his decision to transfer to FAU on Friday evening, instantly shaking up the Conference USA landscape and generating buzz among college basketball insiders.
Carlyle’s transfer comes as part of a growing trend of late portal movement, where players reassess their situations post-spring workouts and coaching changes. For FAU, the acquisition represents more than just roster depth—it signals intent. Head Coach Dusty May, returning after flirtations with higher-profile opportunities, wasted no time solidifying his backcourt with a high-upside addition.
A former four-star recruit from Atlanta, Georgia, Carlyle was a prized prospect coming out of high school. He initially committed to Stanford before flipping to Indiana, where he showed flashes of brilliance during a turbulent Hoosiers campaign. In his freshman year, Carlyle averaged 6.3 points, 2.1 assists, and 1.7 rebounds in just under 16 minutes per game. His best performance came in a midseason clash against Maryland, where he dropped 18 points on 7-of-10 shooting, showing his ability to score at all three levels.
Despite his promise, Carlyle found himself buried in a crowded Indiana backcourt, competing with veterans and other young stars for limited playing time. Sources close to the situation suggest Carlyle sought a program where he could command a more prominent role, develop under a player-focused system, and thrive with freedom—elements that FAU’s modern offense and supportive culture provide in spades.
“Kanaan brings a dynamic skill set to our team—speed, shot creation, and a relentless mentality,” said Coach May in a statement following Carlyle’s commitment. “We’re thrilled to welcome him to Boca Raton. His journey is just getting started.”
Carlyle joins a rising FAU program still buzzing from its 2023 Final Four run and looking to return to the national spotlight. With several returning veterans and a top-100 recruiting class incoming, Carlyle’s addition gives the Owls a potent mix of youth and experience. Analysts already project him to start or play significant minutes at either guard spot, depending on how the rotation shakes out in the fall.
Off the court, Carlyle is known for his poise and charisma—traits that will serve him well in a leadership role. He’s embraced the move to South Florida, stating via social media, “Ready for a new chapter. Let’s get to work, FAU.”
For Florida Atlantic, this late portal win might be a game-changer. For Carlyle, it’s a fresh start—one filled with opportunity, challenge, and the potential to blossom into the star many expected him to be. As the 2025 season looms, all eyes will be on Boca Raton to see if this new partnership yields the breakthrough both player and program are hoping for.
