ISU Basketball Exodus: Nearly All Players Enter Transfer Portal

Indiana State's men's basketball program is undergoing a significant overhaul, with nearly all potential returning players entering the NCAA transfer portal. This mass exodus follows a disappointing 2025-26 season, which concluded with an 11-21 overall record and a 4-16 conference standing.

As of Tuesday, several key players, including freshman center Hunter Harding and junior guard Camp Wagner, had officially entered the portal. Freshman redshirt Martin Kaupanger is currently the only player confirmed to remain with the team. The NCAA transfer portal window is open until April 20, creating a dynamic period for player movement across college basketball.

Coach Matthew Graves acknowledged the situation, noting that the team's struggles in the recent season were anticipated to some degree. He expressed plans to recruit experienced players from the transfer portal to supplement the incoming freshmen class. Graves highlighted the importance of securing players with leadership qualities and a proven track record to compete effectively in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Graves also commented on the team's NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) funding, stating that increased resources are improving their ability to attract higher-caliber recruits. The goal is to have the roster finalized by June 1, allowing ample time for team integration and preparation before the summer workouts begin.