NCAA Division I Council Implements Changes to Transfer Portal Windows for College Sports, Including Reduction in Days and Overhaul of Basketball Calendar

The NCAA Division I Council has announced changes to the transfer portal windows for college sports. In men's and women's basketball, the transfer window will now be open for 45 days starting the Monday after Selection Sunday. The council determined that this 45-day window, which concludes on or before May 1, is the best option for coaches. For FBS and FCS football, the transfer window has also been reduced from 60 to 45 total days. It will consist of a 30-day window beginning on December 4, an additional 5-day window in January for players on College Football Playoff teams, and a 15-day window in the second half of April. Alabama football coach Nick Saban commented on the reduction, stating that he didn't know what the transfer portal windows did, but believes there was a good reason for the change. The NCAA Division I Council has also voted to overhaul the college basketball calendar, with changes set to take effect in 2024. The new rules aim to address the chaotic nature of the transfer portal and provide more structure for coaches and athletes.