The Texas Longhorns have made their first big move under new head coach Sean Miller, securing 6’8”, 220-pound standout Dailyn Swain in a headline-grabbing transfer. Swain, a highly touted three-star recruit from Ohio, was ranked inside the top 100 of the 2023 class .
His decision didn’t come easy—Swain initially chose Xavier over a loaded list of offers, including Arizona State, Cincinnati, Kansas State, Marquette, Ohio State, and Virginia Tech. As a rising junior, he was actively exploring options, scheduling visits with Kentucky and Arkansas after stopping by Ohio State. But instead of extending his recruitment, he ended all speculation and committed to Miller and the Longhorns during his visit to Austin.
Breakout Potential & College Career So Far
Swain showed flashes of brilliance early in his college career. As a freshman, he played in 29 games, starting in three, before an appendectomy sidelined him for the final five contests. Despite limited playing time, he averaged 4.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game.
Fast forward to the 2024-25 season, and Swain was a revelation. Named one of the top breakout players by CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein, he elevated his game, averaging 11.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game.
His biggest performances came on the biggest stage—the NCAA Tournament. Against Texas in the First Four, Swain showcased his all-around skills, scoring 11 points on 5-of-9 shooting, along with four rebounds, three assists, and two steals. In the next round, despite a loss to Illinois, he delivered a career-best performance, dropping 27 points, grabbing eight rebounds, dishing three assists, and swiping three steals—proving he can step up when it matters most.
What Swain Brings to Texas
While his outside shooting remains a work in progress (career 20.4% from three), his elite free-throw shooting (81.6%) hints at untapped scoring potential. More importantly, he dominates inside, finishing second on his team in dunks (24) and converting 63.6% of his shots at the rim. His ability to attack the paint, absorb contact, and finish creatively with both hands makes him a matchup nightmare.
Defensively, Swain is just as impactful. He led Xavier in steals (53 total, 3.2% steal rate) and was a strong defensive rebounder (18.5% rate). With Miller’s system favoring off-ball movement and aggressive cutting, Swain fits perfectly into a scheme that maximizes his athleticism and instincts.
ChatGPT said:
Dailyn Swain’s decision to choose Texas over programs like Ohio State, Kansas State, and Kentucky boils down to trust, opportunity, and a vision for the future. Here’s why he made the move and why he’s committed to Coach Sean Miller:
1. Trust & Familiarity with Coach Sean Miller
Swain played under Sean Miller at Xavier, so he already knows Miller’s coaching style, system, and expectations. Rather than start over with a new coach elsewhere, he chose to continue developing under someone he trusts.
2. A Bigger Role & More Playing Time
At Texas, Swain has the chance to be a featured player in a competitive conference. His breakout season at Xavier showed he’s ready for a bigger role, and Texas gives him a platform to showcase his full potential.
3. Texas Is Building Something Special
With Sean Miller at the helm, Texas is making aggressive moves in recruiting and the transfer portal. Swain sees this as an opportunity to be part of something big—possibly a deep tournament run and a chance to cement his legacy.
4. The System Fits His Playing Style
Miller’s offense creates space for athletic wings like Swain to cut, drive, and attack the paint. With Swain’s elite finishing ability, rebounding, and defensive skills, he fits perfectly into Texas’ game plan.
5. A Path to the NBA
Miller has a history of developing NBA talent, and Swain wants to be the next high-level player to make the jump. Choosing Texas could give him the exposure and development he needs to reach the next level.
🔥 What Does This Mean for Texas?
Is Swain the missing piece for the Longhorns? Will he become the next Texas star to take over college basketball? Only time will tell—but one thing’s for sure: Texas just landed a serious weapon.
A Texas Takeover?
Swain’s commitment is another power move for Texas, much like Arch Manning’s decision to join Longhorns football. The question now is:
🏀 Is Swain the missing piece to take Texas basketball to the next level?
🔥 Can he become the next great Longhorn?
🚀 Are the Longhorns building a team that can dominate college hoops?
One thing is certain—Texas just got a whole lot more dangerous.
Leave a Reply