The New Normal in College Basketball: NIL and Transfer Portal Trends

Player movement in college basketball has hit unprecedented levels, fueled by name, image, and likeness (NIL) compensation and unlimited transfers. This past spring, a record 1,962 men’s players entered the NCAA transfer portal. The portal’s introduction in 2018 has seen its pool of players grow by about 200 each year and is on track to surpass 2,000 players next season. As athletes, coaches, agents, and collective representatives adapt, new challenges and dynamics emerge within the college basketball landscape.

Coaches and players encounter unique forms of tampering. While players can officially enter the portal post-Selection Sunday, impermissible contacts often occur well before then. Coaches report an increasing frequency of tampering, with high-major player 1 saying that by mid-season, numerous coaches contact their families. Agents receive calls from coaches looking to poach players, and some agents attempt to facilitate transfers even without player consent.

NIL discussions pervade transfers, influencing players’ decisions. High-major player 1 describes comparing offers from different schools and leveraging them to negotiate better terms. High-major player 2 avoids discussing NIL figures over the phone, preferring in-person conversations to shape perceptions. As coaches navigate these complexities, they foresee significant shifts, including potential revenue sharing and direct university payments to athletes, aiming for a more regulated and transparent system.