Marquette Basketball Shocker as Zaide Lowery Exits After Strong Start
In a sudden and surprising twist, Marquette Golden Eagles rising star Zaide Lowery has officially entered the transfer portal, signaling an unexpected end to his promising collegiate run with the Big East powerhouse. Lowery’s decision comes after a solid contribution during the 2023–24 NCAA basketball season, adding shockwaves to the program’s offseason developments.
Player Background
Zaide Lowery, a former 4-star recruit out of Kickapoo High School in Missouri, came into the Marquette Golden Eagles program with high expectations. Known for his athleticism, defensive energy, and upside, Lowery carved out a rotational role under head coach Shaka Smart during his time in Milwaukee.
Standing 6-foot-5, Lowery brought versatility on both ends of the court. Though playing off the bench for most of his appearances, his high-motor defense and occasional scoring flashes gave fans and analysts confidence in his long-term potential.
Season Recap
During the 2023–24 NCAA Men’s Basketball season, Lowery featured in the backcourt for the Marquette Golden Eagles, a squad that consistently ranked in the Top 10 of the AP Poll and made a strong run in the Big East Conference.
- Games played: 33
- Minutes per game: 8.5
- Points per game: 3.1
- Field-goal percentage: 42%
- Defensive rating: Among the team’s top-5
Despite limited minutes, Lowery’s impact was felt most on the defensive end, where his length and athleticism allowed him to guard multiple positions. His ability to switch on screens and maintain pressure was instrumental in Shaka Smart’s aggressive full-court style.
Key Moments
Lowery had several standout games during the season. In a Big East victory against Butler, he logged 10 points, 3 rebounds and a steal, showcasing his two-way potential. Another highlight came in a tight contest versus Georgetown, where his late defensive stop helped secure the win.
While not a leading scorer, his spark off the bench earned him praise from the coaching staff and raised hopes that he would take on a larger role in the coming years.
Turning Point: Transfer Portal Entry
Zaide Lowery’s decision to transfer has come as a surprise given his developmental trajectory and his fit within Smart’s system. The timing suggests that roster changes, increased competition for minutes, and strategic plans for the 2024–25 season may have influenced his choice.
With NCAA rules now allowing athletes a one-time immediate eligibility transfer, Lowery is now free to find a program where he can take on a more prominent role. As of now, no official list of suitors has emerged, but power conference schools in need of perimeter defense and athletic wings are likely to be interested.
Why This Is Significant
For Marquette men’s basketball, losing Lowery trims down their depth at the wing and puts pressure on new recruits and underclassmen to step up. With eyes on a deep NCAA Tournament run next season, balancing experience and development will be key for Coach Smart’s squad.
Lowery’s departure also opens up a scholarship slot, which could be used either on a transfer addition or to elevate another young player’s role within the rotation. The team still retains star guard Tyler Kolek and forward Oso Ighodaro, keeping much of its core intact for a title push.
Immediate Impact
- Depth chart shifts: Wing rotation now thinner without Lowery
- Recruiting lens: Opens possibility for late additions or portal entries
- Player development: Opportunities for freshmen and role players to step up
What It Means Next
Looking ahead to the 2024–25 college basketball season, Marquette Golden Eagles remain a top-25 caliber team but will need to adjust to roster turnover. With Lowery gone, new potential stars must emerge, and Smart may have to rely more on current underclassmen or explore key pieces in the transfer market.
For Zaide Lowery, the door now opens to a fresh start—one where he can perhaps move from role player to reliable starter. His climb is far from over. With the right fit, Lowery could thrive and fully unlock his two-way skill set.
Programs that may pursue Lowery:
- Mid-tier Power Five programs needing defense
- Top-tier MVC or Atlantic 10 schools
- Teams focused on pace and transition
Final Thoughts
This offseason twist reminds us how fluid the landscape is in NCAA Division I basketball. The transfer portal gives players the chance to pivot and grow—but also challenges coaches to continually retool and refocus.
As for Marquette, they’ll push forward with a core poised for success. But the loss of Zaide Lowery, though not a headline star, is still a quiet blow to depth, energy, and future plans.
Keep an eye on where Lowery lands. His next team could unlock a rising guard with game-changing potential.