David Punch gives Texas basketball a major interior boost after averaging 14.1 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.9 blocks at TCU.
Texas basketball may have found its biggest transfer portal prize in David Punch.
The former TCU standout arrives at the Moody Center as Sean Miller’s highest-rated addition of the offseason, and it’s easy to see why.
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Punch gives the Longhorns a physical, productive frontcourt piece who can immediately pair with Matas Vokietaitis and change the way Texas attacks the SEC.
Punch was one of the Big 12’s most reliable interior players last season, averaging 14.1 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.9 blocks and 1.3 steals while shooting 50.3 percent from the field.
He also helped lead TCU to an NCAA Tournament appearance as an 8 seed and a first-round win over Ohio State.
At 6-7 and 246 pounds, Punch isn’t coming to Austin as a stretch-big specialist. He shot just 23.9 percent from 3-point range on 1.4 attempts per game, but his value starts in the paint.
He scores through contact, rebounds with force and brings enough athleticism to defend multiple frontcourt matchups.
That matters for Texas. Vokietaitis needed a dependable running mate inside last season, and Punch should make his job easier on the glass and around the rim.
His presence should also create cleaner driving lanes and spacing opportunities for Isaiah Johnson, Austin Goosby and the Longhorns’ backcourt.
Miller has added several key pieces through the portal, but Punch looks like the most complete fit.
He brings production, postseason experience and real two-way impact.
Texas needed more toughness and star power up front. Punch delivers both, and he may not just be the Longhorns’ top newcomer. He could become their best player next season.
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