NCAA Basketball Transfers Surge as Programs Pursue New Talent

The NCAA transfer portal continues to significantly reshape college basketball rosters, as programs across the nation rebuild in response to player departures and new additions. Iowa has undergone a major transformation under new coach Ben McCollum, landing seven transfers—many from Drake—and implementing a system focused on offensive efficiency and quality possessions. The Hawkeyes recently added Robert Morris transfer Alvaro Folgueiras, further bolstering their revamped lineup. Illinois, meanwhile, faces another year of roster upheaval, losing key players like Morez Johnson Jr. and Tre White while bringing in new talent such as Zvonimir Ivisic, though missing on top wing targets has left some gaps. Penn State announced the addition of Cincinnati transfer Josh Reed, a versatile forward expected to contribute both defensively and offensively. These moves reflect the broader trend of teams leveraging the transfer portal to quickly address roster needs and adapt to coaching changes.