Rock Hill, SC, January 8, 2026
Marquis Gillis, a running back from Delaware State University, has announced his transfer to Arizona State University. His decision reflects the increasing trend of athlete mobility in collegiate sports, emphasizing opportunities for growth in both athletics and academics. Standing at 6 feet and weighing 210 pounds, Gillis had notable success at Delaware State, achieving 1,150 rushing yards and seven touchdowns in the 2025 season. His transfer is part of Arizona State’s strategy to enhance their roster through the transfer portal, alongside other key player additions.
Rock Hill, SC – Marquis Gillis, a standout running back from Delaware State University, has made headlines with his recent commitment to transfer to Arizona State University. This strategic move opens a new chapter in Gillis’s football career, as he steps into a more competitive arena within the Power 4 conference.
The transfer process has become increasingly common in collegiate sports, and Gillis’s decision reflects the growing trend of athletes seeking opportunities for advancement in their athletic and academic careers. Such decisions not only benefit the players but also emphasize the value of competition and skill development in collegiate athletics.
Gillis, standing 6 feet tall and weighing 210 pounds, was a pivotal player for Delaware State. In the 2025 season, he rushed for 1,150 yards, scored seven touchdowns, and averaged an impressive 6.3 yards per carry. His talent and hard work have contributed to his overall career statistics of 2,442 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns across four seasons. This solid performance underscores the determination and resilience often found in athletes from smaller programs. The pathway from Delaware State to a major university like Arizona State is a testament to the potential that lies within collegiate sports and the importance of a robust transfer portal system.
Transfer Details
Marquis Gillis’s transition to Arizona State is part of a comprehensive effort by the Sun Devils to bolster their roster through targeted acquisitions in the transfer portal. Alongside Gillis, Arizona State has secured quarterback Cutter Boley from Kentucky and wide receivers Raiden Vines-Bright from Washington, Omarion Miller from Colorado, and Reed Harris from Boston College. These additions are aimed at fortifying the team’s offense as they position themselves for a successful season ahead.
This influx of talent via the transfer portal demonstrates a commitment to growth and competitiveness, an aspect highly valued by fans and stakeholders alike. Athletics programs that embrace change and leverage new opportunities tend to foster a culture of success that can resonate throughout their respective communities.
Implications for Arizona State
Marquis Gillis’s transfer not only represents his personal advancement but also plays a vital role in Arizona State’s strategy to enhance their performance in collegiate football. By attracting accomplished players from various universities, Arizona State is positioning itself as a formidable contender. The use of the transfer portal to acquire skilled athletes reflects a proactive approach that can significantly impact a team’s success and foster a spirit of competition.
Moreover, the increased activity in college football’s transfer portal highlights the changing dynamics of athlete mobility and the opportunities that come with it. By allowing players to seek environments that align with their aspirations, colleges can cultivate a stronger, more competitive spirit within their programs.
Conclusion
Marquis Gillis’s transfer to Arizona State symbolizes a crucial juncture in his athletic journey, enabling him to compete at a higher level while enhancing the Sun Devils’ offensive capabilities. As collegiate athletics continue to evolve, the emphasis on transferring for growth and improved competition will remain significant.
In this context, we encourage our community to stay engaged with local sports programs and support the endeavors of student-athletes like Gillis. Their journeys not only inspire younger generations but also contribute to the fabric of our local economy and culture in Rock Hill, SC.
FAQ
What are Marquis Gillis’s career statistics at Delaware State?
Over four seasons, Gillis accumulated 2,442 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, averaging 5.6 yards per carry.
What other players has Arizona State added through the transfer portal?
Arizona State has also added quarterback Cutter Boley from Kentucky and wide receivers Raiden Vines-Bright from Washington, Omarion Miller from Colorado, and Reed Harris from Boston College.
What was Gillis’s performance in the 2025 season?
In the 2025 season, Gillis rushed for 1,150 yards and scored seven touchdowns, averaging 6.3 yards per carry.
When did Gillis commit to Arizona State?
Gillis committed to transfer to Arizona State University on January 7, 2026.
What is the significance of Gillis’s transfer?
Gillis’s transfer to Arizona State signifies a notable development in his football journey, offering him the opportunity to compete at a higher level while contributing to the Sun Devils’ offensive lineup.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Player Transferred | Marquis Gillis |
| Previous Team | Delaware State Hornets |
| New Team | Arizona State University |
| Position | Running Back |
| Height | 6 feet |
| Weight | 210 pounds |
| 2025 Season Stats | 1,150 rushing yards, 7 touchdowns, 6.3 yards per carry |
| Career Stats | 2,442 rushing yards, 17 touchdowns, 5.6 yards per carry |
| Transfer Date | January 7, 2026 |
| Arizona State’s Transfer Portal Additions | Quarterback Cutter Boley, Wide receivers Raiden Vines-Bright, Omarion Miller, Reed Harris |
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