Gonzaga University’s head coach, Mark Few, has long been recognized for his strategic prowess and ability to adapt in the evolving landscape of college basketball. One significant shift in recent years is the prominence of the transfer portal, allowing players to transition between programs with greater ease. This mechanism has become a pivotal tool for coaches aiming to bolster their rosters with experienced talent.

 

Bryce Lindsay, a 6-foot-3 guard from Baltimore, Maryland, exemplifies the impact of the transfer portal. After a brief stint at Texas A&M during the 2023-24 season, where he appeared in eight games, Lindsay sought a program that aligned better with his aspirations and playing style. This led him to James Madison University (JMU), where he signed for the 2024-25 season.

 

Lindsay’s transition to JMU proved fruitful. He earned accolades such as the Sun Belt Freshman of the Year and Sixth Man of the Year. Averaging 13.4 points per game, Lindsay showcased his shooting prowess by leading the Sun Belt Conference in three-point percentage at 40.8%. His season highlights included a career-high 28 points against UIC on November 21, 2024, and a 19-point performance in an 86-79 victory over Georgia State on January 25, 2025.

 

While Lindsay’s journey underscores the benefits of the transfer portal, Mark Few’s approach at Gonzaga offers a contrasting perspective. Despite the increasing trend of player movement, Few has emphasized retention and team cohesion. As of May 2024, Gonzaga retained seven of its top eight scorers, including four starters, marking an 81.4% retention rate—the highest for the program in nearly two decades. Few attributes this stability to the players’ commitment to the program’s culture and their collective goals.

 

Few’s selective use of the transfer portal focuses on integrating players who align with Gonzaga’s values and playing style. This strategy ensures that new additions complement the existing roster, maintaining the team’s chemistry and performance standards. By prioritizing both retention and strategic recruitment, Few navigates the complexities of modern college basketball, aiming to sustain Gonzaga’s competitive edge.

 

In summary, the transfer portal has reshaped college basketball, offering players like Bryce Lindsay opportunities to find better fits and achieve personal success. Simultaneously, coaches like Mark Few demonstrate that a balanced approach—valuing both player retention and judicious recruitment—can lead to sustained excellence in a rapidly changing environment.