The upcoming 2025-26 men’s NCAA basketball season shows great promise, thanks to several high-impact transfers from elite student-athletes. Multiple players are set to join new programs, and their talent may fill critical gaps that could transform how teams perform in the tournament.
Key Players to Watch
1) PJ Haggerty (Memphis)
In addition to being the AAC Player of the Year, Haggerty stands out as a turbo-scoring guard because of his championship-quality transition game and skill to draw fouls. His scoring and playmaking skills have established him as an elite offensive player who can take control of games and potentially win multiple scoring titles in any league.
2) Trey Fort (Samford Bulldogs to Michigan)
The 6-foot-4-inch guard who has played for the Samford Bulldogs entered the transfer portal and committed to Michigan. Last season, he averaged 14.6 points and 4.0 rebounds, making him exceptional in his field. His all-around skill set will greatly benefit his new team.
3) Bennett Stirtz (Drake to Iowa)
Stirtz gave Drake elite scoring skills through his ability to handle pick-and-rolls while making shots at the rim. Now Gil is leaving coach Ben McCollum to Iowa, and Stirtz is poised to become one of the Big Ten’s best lead guards, bringing efficient scoring and veteran leadership.
4) Donovan Dent (New Mexico to UCLA)
Mountain West Player of the Year Donovan Dent is an elite pick-and-roll guard with exceptional touch and feel around the basket. Dent’s ability to create easy scoring opportunities and orchestrate the offense will be essential for the UCLA Bruins’ success next season.
5) Rob Wright (Baylor to BYU)
His swift gameplay and Big 12 All-Freshman recognition have earned Wright a position as a brilliant passing floor general who applies solid ball-handling and aggressive defensive pressure near the paint. As a national champion at Montverde, he has All-American potential and will be a key leader for BYU.
6) Adrian Wooley (Kennesaw State to Louisville)
Wooley is one of the best freshmen shooters in the country. He hits 41% from three and finishes 60% at the rim. His offensive skill set and NBA upside make him an immediate asset to Louisville.
Impact on Tournament Success
These transfers bring versatile talents that can elevate their new teams instantly. Programs acquiring top-tier players benefit from scoring, leadership, and strategic depth, key ingredients for a deep tournament run.
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The influx of talent creates a competitive and unpredictable season ahead, as multiple programs look to capitalize on these additions to achieve NCAA Tournament success.
Thanks to the transfer portal, college athletics has achieved a new era of balance and opportunity. Coaching staffs are leveraging veteran talent to build championship-caliber rosters. The performance of these seasoned players, combined with team chemistry and fit, will play a defining role in shaping the 2025–26 NCAA Tournament.
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