Portal Closed, Yet Roster Shifts Persist
Although the NCAA transfer portal has been officially closed for several weeks, the offseason continues to generate movement across college basketball. Programs are still finalizing scholarship allocations, and players are making final decisions about their next steps, keeping the rumor mill active even after the portal’s shutdown.
The Inside the Hall staff has compiled a comprehensive look at every one of the 18 Big Ten teams, mapping out who is set to return, who is testing the NBA draft, and which newcomers are joining the conference for the 2026‑27 season.
Returnees and Draft Candidates
Illinois brings back forward Andrej Stojakovic and big man David Mirkovic, both still eligible, while guard Keaton Wagler has declared for the NBA draft and pursued a professional route. Michigan State’s point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. is also exploring the draft, and Indiana’s forward Trent Sisley remains a key returnee with eligibility left.
Purdue will retain Omer Mayer and guard C.J. Cox, Nebraska will keep forward Braden Frager, Ohio State’s forward John Mobley Jr. stays eligible, and USC’s wing Rodney Rice is both eligible and testing the NBA draft, rounding out a deep pool of talent across the league.
These roster changes reflect a blend of experience and potential, as teams balance the desire to keep promising players with the reality of NBA opportunities and scholarship limits. The upcoming season promises fresh lineups and new storylines as each program adjusts to the evolving landscape.