Basketball, College Basketball, Women's Sports

Transfer Portal Offers Strategic Moves for Women’s College Basketball Athletes

March 31, 2025
No Comments

ATLANTA-The college basketball transfer portal officially opened on March 24th—right in the middle of the NCAA Tournament’s Sweet Sixteen. That timing didn’t sit well with some of the sport’s most recognizable coaches. UConn’s Geno Auriemma and South Carolina’s Dawn Staley both voiced concerns, calling it disruptive and poorly timed. But while some coaches view the portal as a distraction, for many players, it’s become a powerful opportunity—what many now call “college basketball’s free agency.”

Already, over 1,000 women’s college basketball players have entered the portal. One of the most surprising moves came from Notre Dame’s Olivia Miles, who chose to forgo her senior season and test the transfer market. Last year, over 1,300 players transferred, including Deja Kelly, who left UNC for Oregon, and Hailey Van Lith, who transferred from Louisville to LSU, then moved again to TCU after a disappointing season. Importantly, players can enter the portal and still choose to stay—it’s not a binding decision.

Why the Transfer Portal Matters More for Women

Unlike their male counterparts, women’s college basketball players face a steeper climb after graduation. The WNBA, even with its 2025 expansion team, will have only 13 teams, equaling just 156 roster spots (13 teams × 12 players). That’s a razor-thin window for the hundreds of athletes who leave college each year. And for those lucky enough to make it, the base salary for a 2025 WNBA rookie is $76,535.

In contrast, the NBA has 30 teams and the G-League as a developmental pipeline. Women don’t have that luxury. For many, college isn’t just a stepping stone—it’s the main stage. That’s why Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities are so crucial. They allow women athletes to earn income, build their personal brand, and potentially set themselves up financially before graduation.

A prime example is Angel Reese, who transferred from Maryland to LSU and quickly became a household name. Her brand exploded when she helped lead LSU to the 2023 National Championship and adopted the persona of the “Bayou Barbie.” The move paid off. And while Reese’s story is unique, it proves the value of choosing the right school at the right time.

Another standout is LSU junior Flau’jae Johnson, who currently holds the highest NIL valuation in women’s college basketball—$1.5 million according to On3. That’s nearly 20 times more than the salary she’d earn as a WNBA rookie. Though Johnson has never transferred, her valuation offers a glimpse into just how significant NIL can be for women athletes.

Why NIL and the Transfer Portal Are Connected

When determining a player’s NIL valuation, several factors come into play: on-court performance, media exposure, and social media presence. Beyond the individual, external factors like a school’s size, location, media reach, and alumni network can heavily influence value. A player’s role, position, team success, and national visibility also matter.

For athletes who transfer to programs with a bigger brand, stronger reputation, or a winning tradition, the move can significantly elevate their exposure and personal brand. This is especially important for players who may not have had many NIL opportunities at their previous school—giving them a chance to increase their visibility and marketability in ways that weren’t previously possible.

According to the NCAA’s NIL Data Dashboard, here’s how women’s basketball players stack up:

Average Disclosure Value: $851
Median Disclosure Value: $62
Average Total Athlete Earnings: $11,372
Median Total Athlete Earnings: $901

Meanwhile, NIL Daily reports that women’s basketball only accounts for 7.7% of all NIL deals—tied for fifth place with baseball and softball. These stats show just how hard it can be for women to monetize their success—especially when compared to other high-profile sports.

Conclusion

While the transfer portal may frustrate coaches and complicate team planning, it serves a deeper purpose for women athletes. In a system where professional basketball opportunities are limited and salaries are modest, the portal is a strategic career move. It empowers players to take control of their narratives, find the best fit for growth, and capitalize on financial opportunities while they can.

For women’s college basketball players, the transfer portal isn’t just about switching teams—it’s about leveraging their talent, elevating their brand, and securing their future.

Sources: