Sign o' the times

[AuricGoldfinger]

The first day the portal opened in 2023, more than 175 players entered.

In 2024, there were 291 on opening day.

Today, more than 700 players hit the portal.

[bhoyal]

The first day the portal opened in 2023, more than 175 players entered.

In 2024, there were 291 on opening day.

Today, more than 700 players hit the portal.

Historically around 40% either ended up playing intramurals or dropped down to a level so low that no stats showed up for them.

This year that percentage will be higher.

[mathguy]

Ouch. I had read that with the end of the COVID extra eligibility transfer numbers might be a little down because of fewer students fighting for spots.

Of course, we also have savvier players better understanding that entering the portal is a negotiating tactic for more money, even if they end up not leaving (though that's a dangerous game to play as their former school could choose to move on)

[Jason94]

The first day the portal opened in 2023, more than 175 players entered.

In 2024, there were 291 on opening day.

Today, more than 700 players hit the portal.

I think that it is highly likely we will be replacing a lot of players again this season, though not as many as last year. We already (as of this writing to my knowledge) have two players in the portal, and I would anticipate that there will be more coming.

Understanding this, it is important to not be too phased about any particular player coming and going. While it would be bad for us to lose a starter or someone we would rather not leave, it is also important to remember that there will be a ton of really good players available. Probably as many available good players as there has ever been, and I anticipate we will end up with a much better overall roster at the beginning of next season than we had at the end of this one, regardless of how many returners we end up with.

I would prefer that we don't have to turn over more than 50% of our roster again this offseason, and hope that the coaching staff is able to maintain as much continuity as possible. But as I noted previously, there is definitely room for improvement and better balance on the roster.

[underdog74]

Who are three players currently on the roster that we can't afford to lose? My three are Jaylen, Edwards, Tanner.

[mathguy]

Who are three players currently on the roster that we can't afford to lose? My three are Jaylen, Edwards, Tanner.

I'd expect Carey to come back ... if he followed CMB from JMU to here, he must like the guy.

I'd like to think the other two (and Glock for that matter) will return. Glock and Edwards were leaders and stars on the team ... no guarantees another program would feature them so strongly. Tanner got a lot of exposure this year, and should be able to reasonably expect to be starting next year.

That said, if some agent whispers in their ear and these guys that don't currently project to have fat NBA contracts in their future start to think that there's a bigger payday on the other side of the portal ... I mean ... it's a business these days. And a hard one to navigate because almost no one actually knows what anyone is getting paid (seriously, I've heard stories of players asking coaches for certain numbers in NIL money and coaches laughing because the number is nowhere close to realistic ... so I think even players and agents don't really know what they can get).

[VandyManners]

There are several players, but for me Devin McGlockton was the glue on this team. Seems to me when he was out or in foul trouble we suffered. If we can keep the general core and add a true big man we should be better in year 2 with CMB at the helm. I really hope coach stays for the long term. I would love for him to be our Coach K.

[mcflash]

I'm fairly certain Tanner, Edwards, Carey, and Glock will return. Not so sure about Nickel and Collins. From all I hear the freshman Vines is something else and is going to eat up someone's minutes. Here's hoping.

[mathguy]

From all I hear the freshman Vines is something else and is going to eat up someone's minutes. Here's hoping.

Would love for this to be true!

[OldDude]

There are several players, but for me Devin McGlockton was the glue on this team. Seems to me when he was out or in foul trouble we suffered. If we can keep the general core and add a true big man we should be better in year 2 with CMB at the helm. I really hope coach stays for the long term. I would love for him to be our Coach K.

We absolutely need Devin back ! He makes a big difference emotionally and athletically .