College basketball is evolving as the transfer portal allows student-athletes to explore new programs, whether they’re pursuing a fifth year or seeking the right fit for their journey.
The NCAA first implemented the transfer portal on October 15, 2018. This system was created to make it easier for college athletes to transfer schools. The portal is an online database where college athletes can publicly declare their intention to transfer to another program.
“The transfer portal is a very significant change that really brought new opportunities for college players. It allowed college players like myself in the future to be able to no only develop the potential in their younger years but also be given the opportunity to go and succeed at higher levels and at better schools that give them more opportunities.” Leah George ‘25 stated.
Many notable players, including MiLaysia Fulwiley from South Carolina and Chad Baker-Mazara from Auburn, recently made a strong showing in March Madness.
Both the team reaching the Final Four and Fulwiley, who advanced to the championship, entered the transfer portal looking for a program where they could excel and develop further.
“If I had a key player that transferred out in the middle of the season I would be upset because we worked hard to be where we are at as a team and even though we might not be at the best spot in our bracket but we still were working together so we can get better and then they leave.” Analisa Cannizzaro ‘27 mentioned.
The transfer portal might be helping the players, but it is affecting the teams tremendously. It disrupts team chemistry and makes it harder for everyone to get to know the coaches and each other. As a result, it takes longer for the team to develop comfort and cohesion.
“I believe that the influx in transfers can affect teams in a bad way due to the simple fact that there is a constant change in teammates so they are not really able to have the full experience of team chemistry and bonding and becoming a family which is really important for teams so that they can play as a group.” George said. She had some mixed feelings on this issue, also adding that it is beneficial because it allows teams to diversify.
The transfer portal might make life easier for some players, but what about everyone else? While players find great programs that fit what they see as great programs, this is also the team that gets hit by this transfer. This system makes it difficult for teams to develop the bond required to play games.
The transfer portal might seem like an effect only in college but there is also a “transfer portal” in high school too. Just like in college you have to talk to different coaches to see where you would fit but once you transfer you have to wait a certain period of time before you can actually play with that team. This could be a benefit to teams as it gives the players time to get adjusted not only with the new school but also with their teammates.
“I feel that the transfer portal could definitely lead to a decline in value of traditional college basketball in aspects such as team-building and long-term coaching relationships because if the teams are constantly changing it could impact the team building but at the same time that could be a part of the whole college experience. You are supposed to be meeting new people and overcoming any challenges that may come with it.” Mackenzie Motzny ‘26 stated.
