The SEC will undergo significant changes in the coming season.
The transfer portal closed on April 22, and since then, the 16 conference teams have acquired 71 transfers, averaging over 4 additions per team. Last season, the SEC recorded a historic 80 transfers, a number likely to be exceeded.
This offseason is marked by uncertainty influenced by the NCAA v. House settlement, which, if approved, could grant an additional year of eligibility to seniors in the 2024-25 season, although this remains uncertain.
The NBA Draft withdrawal deadline is on May 28, further intensifying attention on players like Otega Oweh, Karter Knox, and Alex Condon.
With this backdrop, let’s dive into how each SEC program is shaping up as May begins and what they need to address moving forward, starting from Alabama and ending with Vanderbilt.
Alabama
- Transfer additions: 4
- High school additions: 3
- Notable losses: Mark Sears, Grant Nelson, Jarin Stevenson, Cliff Omoruyi
As of early May, Alabama is set to add 7 newcomers to fill the gaps left by departing players like Mark Sears and Grant Nelson. The Tide will bring back key players such as Aden Holloway and Houston Mallette, with potential returns from Labaron Philon.
Arkansas
- Transfer additions: 2
- High school/international additions: 4
- Notable losses: Adou Thiero, Boogie Fland, Johnell Davis, Jonas Aidoo
Arkansas had a promising first year under John Calipari, and despite losing talent, they have a strong future. They’ve brought in a top-tier class featuring several highly-rated freshmen.
Auburn
- Transfer additions: 4
- High school additions: 5
- Notable losses: Johni Broome, Chad Baker-Mazara, Miles Kelly
Under Bruce Pearl, Auburn faces a significant talent drain but has navigated transfers and high school recruits impressively. Their roster features numerous tall and skilled players to fill gaps.
Florida
- Transfer additions: 2
- High school additions: 2
- Notable losses: Walter Clayton Jr., Alijah Martin, Will Richard
Despite their recent national championship, the Florida Gators are in a state of uncertainty. They are hoping key players will remain in college, which would bolster their roster significantly. They have added solid transfers to help transition from lost talent.
