By Make5Media Staff | October 22, 2026
Cincinnati added an experienced forward just weeks before the season Thursday, while West Georgia secured a guard for its future. Amani Lyles is headed from Akron to Cincinnati after the most productive season of his college career. Triston McDonald’s commitment gives the Wolves a versatile scorer in their 2027 recruiting class.
Amani Lyles — Cincinnati
Akron (OH) | 6’7” Forward | Transfer for 2026–27
Cincinnati’s addition addresses an immediate need. Lyles heads to the Bearcats after averaging 14.9 points and 7.9 rebounds last season at Akron. He brings four seasons of college experience and a resume that includes a 15-point, 16-rebound performance in the 2026 MAC championship game.
For Jerrod Calhoun, the value starts with production that has already held at the Division I level. Lyles gives Cincinnati another forward capable of scoring and finishing defensive possessions with rebounds. His post-season experience will also be invaluable to the Bearcats.
The move to the Big 12 will demand an adjustment as Lyles will face greater size and athleticism, and joining a team this late leaves limited time to learn its system and develop timing with new teammates. His fifth-season eligibility remains an important part of the story. Thursday’s announcement described him as currently eligible through the Ohio legal proceedings. If available throughout the season, Lyles has a chance to become a meaningful late addition to Cincinnati’s frontcourt.
Triston McDonald — West Georgia
IX International (GA) | 6’2” Combo Guard | Class of 2027
Dave Moore and West Georgia are keeping a talented Georgia guard close to home. McDonald, who plays for Atlanta-based IX International, brings shooting and ball-handling ability to the Wolves’ backcourt. His combination of skills gives him a chance to play either guard position: he can initiate the offense, create his own shot or work alongside another ball handler. He is listed with a 6-foot-7 wingspan, giving him additional length at his position.
For West Georgia, the appeal is having a guard who can do more than wait for someone else to create an opportunity. McDonald’s shooting should help stretch defenses, while his handle gives him a way to attack when defenders crowd him. That flexibility could become valuable as Moore builds future backcourt combinations.
The adjustment will come in the decisions between those scoring opportunities. Learning when to push, when to move the ball and how to defend stronger college guards will help determine how quickly McDonald earns a role. But West Georgia has secured a prospect with useful offensive tools and another season to sharpen them before arriving in Carrollton.