Virginia Guard Dai Dai Ames Plans to Transfer

The second Virginia player in as many days announced his plans to enter the transfer portal.  This time, it's sophomore Dai Dai Ames.  The guard out of Chicago transferred in to UVA this past offseason, after spending his freshman year at Kansas State. 

NEWS: Virginia guard Dai Dai Ames plans to enter the transfer portal, his agent Adam Papas told @On3sports.

The 6-1 sophomore averaged 8.7 PPG this season. Shot nearly 40% from three. Began his career at Kansas State. https://t.co/pzI3dYQJiv pic.twitter.com/b6IgqiCmZe

— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) March 19, 2025

Ames started 26 games for the Cavaliers this season, making a big statistical leap from his freshman year.  He averaged 8.7 points, shooting an efficient 46% from the field and just under 40% from three-point range.  The lefty guard especially came on strong down the stretch, scoring in double figures in each of Virginia's final 10 games of the regular season. 

The transfer portal officially opens on Monday, March 24th.  Virginia is without a head coach, following the surprise retirement of Tony Bennett in October and the decision not to retain interim coach Ron Sanchez.   The position is expected to be filled within the next week or two, whenever candidates finish postseason play with their current teams.  

It's expected to be a busy next few months for the Virginia program.  As a new coach is named, and plenty of give and take with the transfer portal.  Stay tuned.  We'll have it covered every step of the way on Locker Room Access.