The NCAA Transfer Portal has officially “closed.” But what does that really mean when it was supposed to shut down on April 27, and players are still being added every day?
The reality is, the portal never truly closes. As long as there are coaching changes and program decisions that impact players, movement will continue.
So far this year, 345 Division I players have entered the portal. Of those, 152 remain uncommitted for next season. Many of those players are now in discussions with Division III programs.
At the Division III level, 128 players have entered the portal, with 106 still uncommitted. Notably, none of the Anna Maria players have entered yet, though that is expected to change this week.
What can be learned from these numbers, and how will the new “Five-in-Five” rule impact the portal and future commitments?
First, players need to understand a hard truth: as a student-athlete—whether at Division I or Division III—you are often viewed as a roster asset. Coaches are focused on winning, and decisions are made accordingly. It’s critical to approach your situation with that awareness.
Second, there are no guarantees anymore. Even players on full Division I scholarships can find themselves replaced by the next incoming recruit.
Third, former Division I players now exploring Division III opportunities will inevitably take roster spots that might otherwise have gone to junior players seeking those same opportunities.
Fourth, Division III players in the portal face an uphill battle. The numbers suggest that many will not land at another NCAA program, and instead will end up at ACHA programs.
The new “Five-in-Five” rule is expected to slow portal movement, just as it will reduce the number of Division I commitments overall. One major impact will be on older players. Those who once projected as Division I candidates at age 20 may now find themselves pushed to Division III after using up eligibility during junior hockey following high school graduation. From a program’s perspective, it’s a simple calculation: why take a player with two or three years of eligibility remaining when a similarly skilled younger player offers all five?
As NCAA rules continue to evolve—and more changes are likely over the next 24 months—players and families need to stay informed. Opportunities that existed yesterday may not be there tomorrow.
Finally, with more Division I and Division III programs expected to close in the coming years, competition for roster spots will only intensify. Expansion is not keeping pace with contraction, and the pressure on the player pool is only going to grow.
For those wanting more information on how all of these changes will effect them please email info@hockeytalentmanagement.com.
