2025 is shaping up to be a game-changing year for women's basketball, and the transfer portal is at the center of all the action. Whether you're a fan, a coach, or a player keeping an eye on the shifting landscape, the transfer portal has become a key part of how teams are built and how players find the right fit. With new names entering the mix and unexpected moves shaking up the rankings, it's a great time to dive in and see how this year's portal might change the face of the sport. So, if you're curious about where players are going, what teams are gaining the most, or how this all affects the upcoming season, you're in the right place.

As we move into the middle part of the year, more and more athletes are making their decisions known. Some are leaving powerhouse programs in search of more playing time. Others are joining teams that could use a boost in experience or scoring. It's not just about where players end up, but also how those moves influence team chemistry, coaching strategies, and even recruiting efforts down the line. For many fans, the portal is a fun way to track the movement and speculate on which teams might surprise us next season.

And if you're a player thinking about entering the portal yourself, it's important to understand how the process works. It's not just about posting your name online and waiting for offers to roll in. There's strategy involved, timing matters, and knowing how to present yourself can make a big difference. So, whether you're following along for fun or considering your own next step, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the transfer portal in women's basketball for 2025.

• Teryl Rothery

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Who's Following Transfer Portal Women's Basketball 2025
3. How the Transfer Portal Works for Women's Basketball
4. What Makes 2025 Different for Women's Basketball Transfers
5. Players to Watch in the 2025 Transfer Portal
6. How Teams Are Using the Transfer Portal Strategically
7. Frequently Asked Questions

Who's Following Transfer Portal Women's Basketball 2025

So, who’s keeping an eye on the transfer portal this year? It turns out, quite a few people. College basketball fans, especially those who follow women’s programs closely, are glued to the updates. Coaches, of course, are actively scouting for players who might fill a gap in their lineup. Recruiting analysts and sports journalists also track the portal to understand how it’s shaping up the next season’s competitive landscape.

For players, especially those considering a move themselves, it's a way to see what’s possible. Many student-athletes are looking at who’s moving where and how that affects their own options. Some are watching for role models — players who made a successful jump and found a better fit. Others are simply curious about how the process plays out and what it means for their future in the sport.

If you're new to the scene, the portal can seem a bit overwhelming at first. There’s a lot of movement, and it’s easy to lose track of who’s going where. That’s why breaking it down by conference, position, or even by experience level can help make sense of it all. It’s also a good idea to follow trusted sources — whether that’s a local beat writer, a national analyst, or a team’s official social media — to stay in the loop without getting confused by rumors or false reports.

• Davido Father

How the Transfer Portal Works for Women's Basketball

So, how exactly does the transfer portal work in women’s basketball? Well, it started as a way for student-athletes to let schools know they’re open to moving. Before this system, players had to ask for permission to contact other teams, which could be slow and sometimes awkward. Now, once a player enters the portal, their information is visible to any college coach who wants to reach out. It makes the whole process more open and efficient.

Here’s how it typically goes: a player tells their current school they’re considering a transfer. The school then enters their name into the portal. From there, any interested coach can contact the athlete directly. The player can talk to multiple schools, visit campuses, and decide where they’d like to go next. Once they commit, they’re officially off the market. It’s a pretty straightforward system, and it gives players more control than they used to have.

One thing to keep in mind: entering the portal doesn’t mean a player has to leave. Some athletes enter just to get a better sense of their options. Others might decide to stay once they realize how much opportunity they still have at their current school. It’s a flexible tool, and for many, it’s a way to explore without making a final decision right away. Learn more about the basics of the transfer process on our site.

What Makes 2025 Different for Women's Basketball Transfers

This year feels a bit different when it comes to the transfer portal in women’s basketball. There’s more movement than ever before, and it’s not just about star players. Role players and bench contributors are also getting more attention than they might have in past years. One reason for this is the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Players are thinking more about where they can get the most exposure, not just where they’ll get the most playing time.

Another thing that stands out in 2025 is how quickly decisions are being made. Some athletes are entering the portal and finding new homes in a matter of days. That’s a big shift from past years when it could take weeks or even months to land a new spot. Coaches are moving fast, too, and some programs are using the portal like a second recruiting class to fill specific needs.

Also, more schools are actively looking to the portal to build competitive teams. It’s not just the big-name programs anymore — mid-major schools are getting in on the action, too. That means more opportunities for players who might not have considered certain schools before. It also makes the season more exciting because you never know which team might make a late splash with a new addition. Check out for real-time updates on transfer trends this year.

Players to Watch in the 2025 Transfer Portal

So, who are the names making waves in the 2025 transfer portal? There’s a mix of veterans and up-and-comers who could really change the landscape of women’s basketball this season. Let’s start with the big names — players who had solid seasons but are looking for a fresh start. Some of them are moving to programs where they’ll get more minutes, others are chasing bigger roles in March Madness runs.

Then there’s the group of players who are moving for more personal reasons. Maybe they want to be closer to home, or they’re looking for a better academic fit. Those moves don’t always get the headlines, but they can be just as important for the player’s long-term success. Keep an eye on point guards who are switching schools — they often bring leadership and playmaking that can elevate an entire team.

If you’re trying to get a sense of which teams might surprise us this year, watch where the transfers land. Some programs are picking up multiple players from the portal, which could mean they’re building something special. Others are targeting specific positions — like a strong post presence or a shooter who can stretch the floor. It’s a great time to follow the updates and see how these moves might shape up the rankings as the season approaches.

How Teams Are Using the Transfer Portal Strategically

Coaches are getting smarter about how they use the transfer portal. It’s not just about filling gaps anymore — it’s about building teams that can compete at a high level right away. Some programs are using the portal to bring in players who fit their system perfectly, rather than waiting for freshmen to develop. This is especially true for teams that are in win-now mode and need immediate help at key positions.

One trend we’re seeing in 2025 is teams going after players with experience in specific systems. For example, if a coach runs a fast-paced offense, they might target a transfer who thrived in a similar system elsewhere. That makes the transition easier and helps the player contribute from day one. It’s also common for teams to look for players who can step in and take over for graduating seniors, keeping the team’s identity intact.

Another thing to note: some schools are using the portal to build depth. Instead of relying on just a few starters, they’re bringing in transfers who can rotate in and give the team more flexibility. That kind of depth can be crucial in long tournaments or during tough conference stretches. If you’re a fan of a team that’s active in the portal, it’s worth paying attention to not just who they add, but how those players fit into the bigger picture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a player leave the transfer portal once they’ve entered?

Yes, a player can come out of the portal if they decide to stay at their current school. Sometimes they enter just to see what kind of interest they get, and if they like what they hear, they might stay put. It’s a way to explore without making a final decision right away.

Do players have to sit out a year after transferring?

Not always. Thanks to new NCAA rules, many players can transfer once and play right away, especially if they’re at the Division I level. There are still some cases where a player might have to sit out, like if they transfer more than once, but that’s less common now than it used to be.

How do NIL deals affect transfer decisions?

More and more players are thinking about their off-court opportunities when choosing a new school. Some programs have better connections for sponsorships or social media exposure, which can make a difference in a player’s decision. It’s not just about basketball anymore — it’s about building a brand, too.