Utah superstar guard Gianna Kneepkens has entered her name into the transfer portal after her third season with the Utes.
The junior from Duluth, Minnesota, announced the decision via social media on Friday afternoon. Kneepkens hasn’t decided where her next season will be played, but she has indicated that it will not be at Utah.
“I am taking my grad year to pursue the education that comes with the unknown, seeking a difference that will enhance my educational and athletic journey,” Kneepkens wrote.
“This decision causes me tremendous angst because I have loved my time at Utah, and at the same time, I am excited to find out what God has in store for me. With tremendous gratitude and appreciation, I move on to life’s next adventure.”
Kneepkens had an impactful career with the Utes and improved year after year under coaches Lynne Roberts and Gavin Petersen. She will be a heavily sought-after recruit by other power conference teams in the off-season.
Following the conclusion of the 2024-25 season, Kneepkens was named First-team All-Big 12 and the 2025 Big 12 Scholar Athlete of the Year. Her average 19.3 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists helped her earn these accomplishments in a season that will go down in Lady Runnin’ Utes history.
Kneepkens expressed nothing but gratitude for the University of Utah as she looks to take her next step toward a likely WNBA opportunity.
Losing a one-of-a-kind player like Kneepkens will be a challenge for the Utes moving forward, but a solid returning class combined with strong incoming recruits will help smooth out the rebuilding process for coach Gavin Petersen.
