Transfer portal talk with Rob Yanders

Rob Yanders breaks down what the transfer portal is as well as the pros and cons.

Many familiar names have recently entered the NCAA transfer portal. Former high school stars from the area (and Yanders Law alumni) such as Anton Brookshire, Trevon Brazile, and Monty Johal are among the players to test the waters. But, what exactly is the transfer portal?

Rob Yanders breaks down what the transfer portal offers to collegiate athletes:

“Having the transfer portal means players can explore their options as student-athletes,” Yanders says. “They maintain their option to return to their current school, but also explore other avenues.”

Yanders says that since gaining national momentum over the last two years, the transfer portal has helped AND hurt players' situations.

“College coaches have been able to use transfers to get more experienced players,” Yanders says. “That is a very appealing option for coaches on the ‘chopping block.’ Generally, those hurt the most are high school seniors. Unless you are 6’10 250 or a clear-cut, top-100 player, it is getting tougher. Middling players are having a tougher time getting exposure.”

“For guys like Anton and Trevon, it could be great coming from a power five conference,” Yanders says. “With their experience, they could move up the food change or make a great mid-major splash.” Since discussing with Yanders, Brazile has already committed to Arkansas, who made plenty of noise this year during March Madness.

Yanders says that the scary part of the transfer portal is not always being allowed to return to your current team.

“It has been interesting,” Yanders says. “There could be 2,000 players in the transfer portal this year, and not every player will even make it out. It is all about betting on yourself. Coaches may choose to fill the void you are leaving ‘just in case.’”

Congratulations to Trevon Brazile on finding a fit! Good luck to those players remaining in the portal, as well as all incoming players that are now competing with a larger player pool than ever. College hoops is getting more interesting all the time, and we will always be rooting for our local guys and gals.

Stay tuned to The Basketball Movement Exclusive for continued insight from Yanders and news from around our corner of the world of hoops.