Women’s College Basketball Transfer Portal: Top 10 Winners and Their Impact on the 2025-26 Season
As the dust settles on the transfer portal frenzy, it’s time to take a closer look at which women’s college basketball teams have emerged as the biggest winners. With the portal now closed and players having made their decisions, the landscape of the upcoming season is starting to take shape. Some coaches have completely overhauled their rosters, while others have strategically filled gaps. Both strategies have led to a list of the top 10 winners of the transfer portal.
Let’s dive into the details and see which teams have positioned themselves for success in the 2025-26 season.
1. Tennessee Lady Vols
The Lady Vols have added three high-end rotational players to an already strong roster. Janiah Barker, Nya Robertson, and Jersey Wolfenbarger bring depth and versatility to Kim Caldwell’s team. Barker, with her SEC experience, adds power to the frontcourt, while Robertson’s scoring ability fits perfectly into Tennessee’s pressing system. Wolfenbarger, at 6-foot-5, enhances rim protection and rebounding.
2. Ole Miss Rebels
After a Sweet 16 appearance, Ole Miss has been transformed with the addition of seven players from the portal. Cotie McMahon headlines this group, potentially forming a dynamic duo with Sira Thienou. Latasha Lattimore and Jayla Murray add inside scoring, while Kaitlin Peterson boosts perimeter offense.
3. South Carolina Gamecocks
Despite losing MiLaysia Fulwiley, the Gamecocks have addressed key needs with Ta’Niya Latson and Madina Okot. Latson, the nation’s leading scorer, provides a significant offensive upgrade, while Okot’s defensive prowess adds a new dimension to the team.
4. LSU Tigers
LSU has managed to come out ahead despite losing six players to the portal. MiLaysia Fulwiley and Kate Koval are top recruits who will have ample opportunity to shine. Fulwiley’s dynamic play strengthens the guard position, while Koval fills a crucial role in the frontcourt.
5. TCU Horned Frogs
Mark Campbell’s strategy of leveraging the transfer portal has paid off once again. Olivia Miles, a standout guard, is a perfect fit for Campbell’s system, and her presence could lead TCU to another successful season. The addition of Kennedy Basham and Clara Silva further bolsters the roster.
6. Maryland Terrapins
Brenda Frese continues to excel in using the transfer portal to her advantage. Yarden Garzon, Gracie Merkle, and Oluchi Okananwa are key additions that will help Maryland maintain its high-scoring offense. Garzon, in particular, is expected to be a central figure in the team’s success.
7. Oklahoma State Cowgirls
Jacie Hoyt has filled crucial gaps with the addition of Faith Acker, Achol Akot, and others. The Cowgirls’ backcourt is now deep and talented, with players like Amari Whiting and Haleigh Timmer expected to make significant contributions.
8. Baylor Bears
Baylor’s backcourt has been completely rebuilt with the addition of Taliah Scott, Yuting Deng, and others. Scott’s scoring ability is much needed, and Deng’s potential as a point guard could be a game-changer for the Bears.
9. Louisville Cardinals
Laura Ziegler’s arrival has elevated the Cardinals’ prospects. Her inside scoring ability fills a crucial gap, while Skylar Jones and Reyna Scott add depth to the backcourt.
10. SMU Mustangs
Under new coach Adia Barnes, SMU has undergone a complete transformation. With 10 new players, including former Wildcats like Sahnya Jah and Paulina Paris, the Mustangs are poised for a fresh start in the ACC.
Honorable mention: Illinois Fighting Illini, Virginia Cavaliers, Miami Hurricanes
Originally Written by: Charlie Creme
