Transfer portal news was pretty slow this weekend and if you’re wondering why, well it’s probably because of what’s happening at the NCAA today.
The proposal from NCAA President Charlie Baker would give all athletes five years
of eligibility over five years, beginning with high school graduation or when they turn 19, whichever is earliest. The move by itself makes a lot of sense:
- it would actually help with the student part of “student-athlete” as it gives athletes more flexibility in pursuing academic interests
- it reduces the current trend of 22 and 23 year-old freshmen with full eligibility
- it can potentially simplify the current system where it’s the courts who decide who is eligible
What we don’t know is how this proposal would work. If the rule is implemented this summer, are current seniors grandfathered in? Many are in the portal just in case, but in a lot of cases rosters and NIL budgets are set. Will there be changes to transfer rules? What about medical redshirts and other waivers?
In the case of both Syracuse basketball programs, this decision could have a major impact on the rest of the summer and the final roster pieces added for 26-27. Both teams have rosters spots open- was this intentionally done to give flexibility? It’s hard to know exactly, but if you thought the initial portal period was wild, buckle up because we might be in for a thrilling summer.
