Auburn is reportedly in the process of losing a pair of top 40 prospects from the 2022 recruiting class.

According to reports, 5-star big man Yohan Traore and 4-star guard Chance Westry are heading to the transfer portal. Traore announced his move in a note on Instagram while Joe Tipton with On3 Sports reported on Westry’s entry.

“A heartfelt thanks to Coach (Bruce) Pearl for recruiting me and giving me the opportunity to play at Auburn,” wrote Traore. “I also want to thank the entire Auburn staff for giving me the opportunity to play under their leadership this past year… I will always remember and appreciate you, but the time has come for me to enter the transfer portal and take that next step as a basketball player.”

 

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While with the Tigers, Traore appeared in 25 games while averaging 9.9 minutes, 2.1 points and 1.4 rebounds while shooting 40% from the field. Westry appeared in 11 games with averages of 2.5 points, 1 assist and 0.7 steals before redshirting.

Impact for the Tigers

While neither Traore nor Westry played major roles this past season, together, the two were the highest-rated recruits in Auburn’s 2022 recruiting class. Traore was a 5-star prospect and 24th player in the country per the 247 Sports Composite Rankings while Westry was rated a 4-star prospect and the No. 39 player nationally.

We’ll see how the Tigers adjust, but the loss of two talented players certainly stings.