The transfer portal era has been chaotic from the start, and there’s no sign of it slowing down anytime soon. For Clemson basketball to stay competitive, adapting to this new landscape is essential.
Though the portal is still relatively new, NIL deals have drastically altered how it operates. Last year, some of the nation’s top transfers earned well over $1 million, and Jeff Goodman reports that figure is expected to climb even higher this season.
According to Goodman, elite transfers this offseason could command $2.5 to $3 million. Think about it—paying that much for a player who might stay just one year before transferring again or leaving for the NBA. That’s the reality Brad Brownell and Clemson must navigate.
To contend for the ACC title next season, Clemson will need to invest heavily in top-tier transfers. If the best players are fetching $3 million, even second-tier prospects could cost $1-2 million.
But spending big doesn’t guarantee success. Take Great Osobor at Washington—despite being the Big Ten’s highest-paid transfer, his team finished last and missed the conference tournament. With five roster spots to fill, Clemson must be ready to spend if it wants to compete.
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