Steve Forbes is once again tasked with rebuilding through the transfer portal — after the loss of Efton Reid, Hunter Sallis and Cam Hildreth.
While the work isn’t finished yet, Wake Forest has already added a promising group of newcomers who could help keep the Deacs competitive in the ACC. From proven scorers to high-upside wings, this class brings versatility, shooting, and a few big question marks. Here’s how each addition grades out so far:
Myles Colvin – A-
At 6’5 and 200 pounds, Colvin brings the kind of athleticism and shooting that translates well to the ACC. The former four-star recruit comes from Purdue, where he averaged 5.4 points in a limited role on a Sweet Sixteen team. The numbers don’t tell the full story — Colvin had 10 scoreless outings but also five double-digit games, including a 20-point outburst against Ole Miss.
In many ways, his trajectory mirrors that of Hunter Sallis, who posted similar numbers in his second year at Gonzaga before breaking out at Wake. That said, Colvin doesn’t yet have Sallis’s polish as a shot-creator off the bounce.
Still, the opportunity at Wake should give Colvin more freedom to explore his game. With a larger offensive role and fewer stars around him, he’ll have the chance to develop as a scorer, particularly in transition and spot-up situations. Even if he doesn’t make a massive leap, his floor as a capable defender and reliable shooter makes this a strong addition. And if he does take that leap? Steve Forbes may have landed another high-upside transfer gem.
Mekhi Mason – A
If there was one glaring weakness for Wake Forest last season, it was perimeter shooting. Enter Mekhi Mason, a 6’1 guard from Washington who should be an instant remedy for the Deacs’ three-point woes.
Mason is a proven elite shooter, a career 37.2% marksman from beyond the arc, and his role steadily expanded throughout Big 10 play. He delivered several big-time performances against top competition, showcasing not only his shooting touch but also his feel for the game. He’s more than just a spot-up threat: Mason is a clever cutter, a crafty secondary ball handler, and someone who thrives within the flow of the offense.
Mason isn’t a pure point guard, but he’s more than capable of handling the ball in spurts and making smart decisions. He’ll be a valuable floor spacer and connector, someone who can slide into different lineups and give Wake the spacing and off-ball movement it sorely missed last season.
Nate Calmese – B+
No transfer in Wake’s incoming class carries more intrigue or more uncertainty than Nate Calmese. The talented 6’2 guard is on his fourth school in four years, and while the stops have been short, the scoring has never been in question.
His offensive game is smooth, confident, and creative. But this isn’t just about scoring. Wake Forest desperately needs stability at point guard after an up-and-down year at the position, and Calmese will be asked to take on a true lead role in Steve Forbes’ backcourt.
That’s where the questions come in. Can he defend ACC guards at a high level? Can he run an offense and lead a team? Can he stay locked in throughout a long season? The talent is there, but the role will be bigger and the leash shorter. If it clicks, Calmese could be one of the most important pieces on the roster. If not, Wake may find itself searching for answers at the point guard position once again.
Cooper Schwieger – B+
The only low-major transfer in Wake’s class, Cooper Schwieger, is a bit of a wild card. He impressed at Valparaiso with his shooting and versatility, drawing interest from heavyweights like Kansas, Michigan, and Virginia. At 6’10”, he stretches the floor well and could complement Trevon Spillers in a modern front-court pairing.
But can his game translate against ACC size and athleticism? There are real questions about whether he’s physically ready to anchor the five. He was pushed around at times in the Missouri Valley. Still, the skill is legit, and if he adjusts to the physicality, this could be a sneaky-good pickup.
