OFFICIAL: Ole Miss Lands High Point’s Top Scorer Kezza Giffa from Transfer Portal
Ole Miss men’s basketball continues to bolster its roster through the transfer portal, officially securing the commitment of High Point University’s standout guard Kezza Giffa. The French-born scoring threat brings with him an explosive offensive game that made him one of the most dynamic players in the Big South last season.
Giffa averaged 17.5 points per game in the 2023–24 campaign, leading the High Point Panthers and ranking among the top scorers in the conference. His offensive prowess helped propel High Point to a 27-9 record and a Big South regular season title. Now, he’ll take his talents to Oxford as head coach Chris Beard continues to build a competitive squad in the SEC.
Standing at 6-foot-2, Giffa is known for his quick first step, crafty ball handling, and deep shooting range. He shot over 36% from three-point territory last season and demonstrated the ability to create his own shot in isolation, in addition to functioning well within team sets. His strong free-throw shooting and ability to draw fouls also made him a constant scoring threat in late-game situations.
For Ole Miss, Giffa’s arrival is timely. The Rebels are looking to improve on a 20-13 finish in Beard’s first season at the helm, and adding a proven scorer like Giffa fills a key need in the backcourt. With the departure of leading scorer Matthew Murrell to the NBA Draft, Giffa is expected to step into a prominent offensive role immediately.
This move also signals Beard’s commitment to leveraging the transfer portal to stay competitive in the SEC. Giffa joins a talented group of incoming transfers and returners, giving Ole Miss a balanced mix of experience, athleticism, and shot-making ability.
Originally from Paris, Giffa played professionally in France before coming to the United States, and his international background adds another layer of maturity to his game. His father, former pro player Franck Giffa, also adds to his basketball pedigree.
As Giffa transitions to the SEC, the level of competition will certainly rise, but his performance at High Point suggests he’s ready for the challenge. Ole Miss fans will be eager to see how his scoring ability translates to one of the most competitive conferences in the country.
With Giffa in the fold, the Rebels are positioning themselves as a team to watch in the 2024–25 season.