College basketball programs nationwide have finalized their official rosters for the 2025-26 season following extensive changes. This offseason saw over 2,000 Division I transfers, leading to significant movement in the sport.

Key aspects of roster building today include retaining existing players, making transfers, recruiting high school players, and adding international talent. This hierarchy might vary by program, but completion is imperative for those still in pursuit of international recruits.

While the portal activity mostly concluded in late May, a few critical additions occurred in June and July. Larger, well-funded programs have made significant gains, particularly Kentucky, Louisville, and UConn, who emerged as notable successes in this transfer cycle.

However, not all traditional powerhouses fared well. With preparations for the new season underway, a closer examination reveals the winners and losers of the transfer portal period.

Winner: NC State is back in contention

Following Will Wade’s hiring at NC State, a major roster overhaul was anticipated, and it has been executed well. The Wolfpack has successfully recruited Darrion Williams, the 5th-ranked transfer in the nation from Texas Tech, among others. Additionally, significant players like Tre Holloman (Michigan State) and Terrance Arceneaux (Houston) will bolster the roster as they make their way to Raleigh.

Winner: Kentucky enhances lineup

Kentucky effectively shored up its roster ahead of the new season, acquiring five transfers in the top 60, including Jayden Quaintance, ranked 10th overall. This depth comes as Kentucky loses five notable scorers due to graduation, but their new transferees provide a solid boost.

Loser: North Carolina misses key prospects

Despite excitement around the appointment of Jim Tanner as general manager, North Carolina’s offseason was less than stellar. While they’ve added players like Jarin Stevenson, more impactful performers are still missing, particularly in the scoring department, leaving the roster feeling incomplete.

Winner: Vanderbilt shapes a new team

After an impressive NCAA Tournament showing last season, Vanderbilt’s offseason included acquiring top transfers to create a stronger lineup than before. They have brought in notable players such as AK Okereke and Duke Miles, providing a much-needed scoring boost.

Additional Highlights

• Despite their former challenges, schools like GW and Marist have managed to hold onto multiple important players through this tumultuous transfer period.
• Conversely, the effects of the new portal era are harshly felt at Arizona State and Robert Morris, showing the difficulties of team retention under changing circumstances.

The landscape for college basketball is significantly evolving through these transfer efforts, setting up an intriguing 2025-26 season.