Which school did Len Bias almost transfer to and why?
247Sports
Last updated: May 26, 2026
The article explores a lesser-known "what-if" scenario involving NBA legend Len Bias: his near transfer from the University of Maryland to an ACC rival during his freshman year. This period was marked by his dissatisfaction with his initial playing time and coach Lefty Driesell's coaching methods.
- The text reveals that in his freshman season (1982-83), Len Bias averaged only 7.1 points and 3.9 rebounds. He considered transferring to N.C. State due to unhappiness with being substituted and a perceived emphasis on defense over offense by coach Driesell. Driesell was also reportedly trying to alter Bias's shooting technique.
- Despite early struggles and consideration of transferring, Bias eventually adjusted to Driesell's coaching, particularly a new shooting technique. By his junior year, he had become an elite player, earning ACC Player of the Year honors, and by his senior year, he was one of the greatest players in ACC history, selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the 1986 NBA Draft. Coach Driesell later admitted he might not have maximized Bias's potential early enough. The article concludes that Bias and Driesell resolved their issues, preventing the transfer.