The Florida State Seminoles are in full-on rebuild mode as they usher in a new era under head coach Luke Loucks, who steps into the massive shoes of Leonard Hamilton after 23 years at the helm. With every coaching change comes a storm of roster shakeups, and FSU is no exception!
In the latest twist, reserve center Waka Mbatch has officially entered the transfer portal, marking another chapter in the team’s transformation. The Gambian-born big man, who played just seven games across two seasons and recorded a modest four points and four rebounds, is on the move. Although Mbatch made waves last year by briefly entering the portal before deciding to return to Tallahassee, it seems the new regime is ready to part ways.
Mbatch, a diamond-in-the-rough discovered by Hamilton, was a hidden gem from Gambia, having played in the premier division league there. Despite the promise, his chances to shine at the collegiate level were limited. With minimal action, including just three minutes of play in the last game he appeared in—against Tulane on December 14th—Mbatch never truly got to show his full potential.
Now, under Loucks’ leadership, the focus is clear: he needs players who can make an immediate impact. Mbatch, still an enigma, doesn’t fit the bill, and both sides seem to be moving on. Mbatch joins Taylor Bol Bowen as part of the growing list of Seminoles hitting the portal. Stay tuned—FSU’s roster is far from settled, and the hottest moves are just getting started!
