Since its introduction in 2018, the NCAA transfer portal has dramatically reshaped college basketball, bringing both advantages and challenges. While athletes now have greater autonomy over their careers, the quick decisions and constant movement can lead to burnout and regret. This offseason alone, over 2,000 players have entered the portal in search of better opportunities or increased playing time.
Adding to the complexity is the influence of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) rules, which allow athletes to profit from sponsorships and endorsements. While intended to empower players, the system has introduced new pressures and blurred lines between college and professional sports.
In a recent article by Fox Sports reporter John Fanta, numerous coaches and players—many speaking anonymously—expressed frustration with the current state of affairs. One mid-major coach described the offseason as “a Grade-A fing goat rodeo,” joking that they need to “pray the rosary” just to make it through. A high-major coach called the system a “cesspool,” blaming it on unchecked NCAA greed and the absence of clear guidelines for NIL. Others lamented the loss of team loyalty and school pride, with one senior stating, “The state of the sport is fed.”
Calls for reform are growing louder, with coaches advocating for enforceable rules, a players’ association, contracts, and a salary cap.
Meanwhile, the portal continues to buzz with big-name transfers for the 2025 season. Standout players like PJ Haggerty, Donovan Dent, Ian Jackson, RJ Luis Jr., and Jayden Quaintance have all decided to switch programs. Haggerty, who averaged 21.7 points per game last season, is among the latest high-profile athletes to seek a new home. RJ Luis also had a breakout year, helping his team to its first conference title in decades.
