The Ivy League is abuzz with multiple injuries and transfers. Among the bright stars, a few have shined as bright on Brown University’s basketball court as Nana Owusu-Anane, a double-double threat night in and night out. The 6’8″ forward has been known for his towering presence and game-changing moments. While the Burlington-born was getting the spotlight for his indefinite absence from the Bears locker room, now he has made headlines for a different reason.

Owusu-Anane has had an outstanding tenure at Brown. The senior helped build a reputation as a dominant force in the Ivy League. In three seasons, he played in 77 games with 59 starts, including Second Team All-Ivy recognition last season. Owusu-Anane averaged 14.7 points and 8.8 rebounds a game, making himself a centerpiece of Brown’s basketball program.

According to Jeff Goodman, Owusu-Anane plans to enter the transfer portal as a graduate transfer. His NIL agent, CJ Ward of Lift Sports, confirmed the decision to The Field Of 68. Interestingly, despite the injury, Owusu-Anane’s good season and proven track record make him a very sought-after prospect.

The forward underwent surgery in October to repair a partially torn labrum, ruling him out for the upcoming season. Nevertheless, Owusu-Anane’s past performance should keep him in the light even after the setback.

He averaged career highs in points (15.0), rebounds (8.8), and assists (2.1) last season, helping Brown secure its first Ivy League Tournament appearance and victory. Meanwhile, Owusu-Anane’s latest transfer choice is getting some buzz, but it’s not his first transfer portal rodeo.

Nana Owusu-Anane’s second attempt at the transfer portal

Surprisingly, Owusu-Anane’s entry into the transfer portal is not his first. He considered other options but recommitted to the Bears before accepting huge six-figure NIL deals from top-tier programs. But this time, it feels a lot more final. According to sources, he is finding a way to his graduate year as a college basketball player, something that the Ivy League doesn’t allow.

Nevertheless, Nana cannot be overlooked from the Bears’ successful runs. During 2023-24, he tallied double-digit points in 25 games, 20 plus points in six games, and 11 double-doubles. Against Princeton, his best game — 18 points and 15 rebounds — helped the Bears earn their first Ivy League Tournament appearance and win, etching him into history.

Head coach Mike Martin also spoke out to support Owusu-Anane during his recovery. “We obviously feel so badly for Nana and our main focus is getting him the support and treatment that he needs,” Martin stated.

“I know that he’ll attack his recovery like he always does and will come back from this better than he was before.”

Owusu-Anane will focus on recovery, and his future is promising. His proven track record means that he is a top transfer target. The forward will be heavily pursued by teams seeking a versatile scorer who can also rebound under the basket. For Brown, Owusu-Anane’s departure leaves big shoes to fill.