Auburn's frontcourt is set for a shakeup as freshman forward Filip Jovic plans to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, according to a report from Draft Express’ Jonathan Givony. The 6-foot-9 Serbian spent one season with the Tigers, appearing in 35 games and averaging 5.9 points and 4.1 rebounds in just under 18 minutes per contest.
Jovic's decision comes after an Auburn season that ended with a 20-16 record and a trip to the NIT, narrowly missing the NCAA Tournament bubble. A three-star prospect originally from Serbia, Jovic began his career overseas with Mega before making the jump to the SEC. Now 21 years old and with three years of eligibility remaining, his blend of size and international experience could make him a sought-after target in the portal for programs looking to add frontcourt depth.
The Tigers' absence from the Big Dance this year was a topic of debate, even among their most famous alumni. Hall of Famer Charles Barkley, while expressing love for his alma mater and head coach Steven Pearl, publicly agreed with the Selection Committee's decision. "Auburn should not have got in," Barkley stated, citing the team's inconsistency down the stretch, where they lost eight of their final ten games.
As the transfer portal window heats up, Jovic's next move will be one to watch. After a year of adjusting to the American game, he's poised to become a valuable contributor for a program in need of a versatile forward.