BREAKING: Jeremy Roach, the star Baylor Bear player to enter the transfer portal, has officially decided to stay committed to Baylor Bears with a contract extension… This decision marks a significant step in solidifying the future …
In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves across the college basketball landscape, Jeremy Roach, the standout guard for the Baylor Bears who had recently entered the NCAA transfer portal, has officially withdrawn his name and committed to a future with Baylor. The announcement came just hours after speculation about his potential move to several powerhouse programs gained traction. With a new contract extension in place under Baylor’s NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) agreements, Roach’s decision to stay is being hailed as a pivotal moment not only for the Bears but for the future of their basketball program.
Roach, who transferred from Duke to Baylor and quickly became a fan favorite and team leader, was one of the most sought-after names in the portal. Averaging 15.3 points, 4.1 assists, and 1.5 steals per game last season, his on-court leadership and veteran presence were crucial in Baylor’s deep tournament run. His combination of experience, skill, and basketball IQ made him a prime target for top programs looking to add instant impact talent.
What made Roach’s potential departure so impactful was the timing. Baylor has been building momentum over the past few seasons, and losing a player of his caliber could have been a major setback. However, head coach Scott Drew and the Baylor athletic department moved swiftly to re-secure their star, leveraging the university’s robust NIL network and promising vision for the upcoming season. According to sources, Roach’s new deal is one of the most competitive NIL arrangements in Big 12 basketball, further indicating the growing importance of NIL in player retention.
“This was never just about basketball,” Roach said in a statement released with the news. “It was about loyalty, family, and finishing what we started. Baylor believed in me, and I believe in Baylor. We have something special here.”
Roach’s recommitment not only stabilizes the team’s backcourt but also sends a strong message to recruits and fans: Baylor is serious about contending for championships. With Roach at the helm and a talented supporting cast, including rising sophomores and a top-15 recruiting class incoming, the Bears are poised to be major players in the 2025 NCAA Tournament conversation.
For Coach Drew, keeping Roach in the program is a masterstroke. It demonstrates his ability to not only bring in elite talent but to retain it in an era where player movement is more fluid than ever. Roach’s return adds continuity, leadership, and a sense of unfinished business to a team that has been knocking on the door of another Final Four appearance.
In a college basketball world increasingly defined by fast exits and new beginnings, Jeremy Roach choosing to stay home at Baylor may be the most powerful statement of all. It’s not just a win for the Bears—it’s a declaration that Baylor is ready to compete with the best, now and in the future.