The Syracuse men's basketball team is set to expand its roster with the addition of transfer forward Jaret Valencia, as confirmed through his Instagram story. A formidable presence on the court, Valencia brings a wealth of experience from his time at Monmouth University, where he made significant contributions both offensively and defensively. With the transfer portal closing for men's basketball, this move underscores Syracuse's strategic approach to strengthening their lineup for the upcoming season.

Hailing from Quibdo, Columbia, Valencia spent two seasons with the Hawks, showcasing his versatility and athleticism. After redshirting his first year, he quickly established himself as a key player in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). During the 2023-24 season, Valencia started in 32 out of 33 games, averaging nearly 9 points and over 4 rebounds per game. His defensive prowess was particularly evident, leading Monmouth with 55 blocks that season while maintaining an impressive 41.3% shooting accuracy from beyond the arc.

This past season, injuries limited Valencia’s playing time, but he still managed to start 13 of 27 games, contributing 6.7 points and 4.1 rebounds per contest. Despite reduced opportunities, his three-point shooting percentage remained respectable at 34.1%. Known for his length and athleticism, Valencia aligns perfectly with Syracuse’s recruitment strategy, focusing on players who can provide immediate impact both inside and outside the paint.

Under the guidance of Coach King Rice at Monmouth, Valencia benefited from seasoned coaching staff, including Brian Reese—a former standout player from North Carolina. Reese’s background adds another layer of connection within college basketball circles, further enhancing Valencia’s development during his tenure at Monmouth.

Syracuse currently boasts a solid roster of 11 players for the 2025-26 season, headlined by returning stars JJ Starling and Donnie Freeman. The inclusion of Valencia promises to bolster the team’s depth and capabilities, ensuring they remain competitive in the highly contested ACC conference. While the official transfer portal has closed, potential recruits like Valencia may still commit prior to the commencement of fall semester classes.

Jaret Valencia’s arrival signifies Syracuse’s commitment to building a balanced and dynamic squad capable of excelling in high-stakes matchups. As the Orange prepare for the next chapter, Valencia’s blend of skill, size, and experience positions him as a valuable asset moving forward.