In a move that shakes up the UCLA backcourt, Los Angeles native and guard Skyy Clark has entered the NCAA transfer portal. The decision, confirmed Tuesday, comes after two seasons with the Bruins and hinges on Clark's ongoing appeal for an extra year of eligibility.
Clark's collegiate journey has been marked by both high-level shooting and uncertainty. He began his career at Illinois, appearing in only 13 games as a freshman before departing for personal reasons. After transferring to UCLA, he became a key contributor last season, averaging 11.5 points per game and showcasing elite three-point marksmanship, hitting 42.7% from beyond the arc.
Reports indicate Clark hoped to remain in Westwood, but the program was unwilling to guarantee his roster spot and associated NIL compensation without clarity on his eligibility status for the 2026-27 season. "He wanted us to guarantee his spot and his money, and we can’t do that while we’re waiting for his ruling," a UCLA source stated.
This leaves head coach Mick Cronin with a significant backcourt hole to fill. Clark's departure is a loss of a proven scorer and a hometown player whose toughness was never in question—he famously played through a chipped tooth during UCLA's NCAA Tournament run. As he seeks a new program and a resolution on his playing clock, Clark's next move will be one to watch in the ever-evolving transfer portal landscape.
