The Shifting Landscape of West Coast Conference Men’s Basketball
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The West Coast Conference (WCC) men’s basketball landscape has undergone significant changes in recent months. With the transfer portal cycle in full swing, teams are scrambling to rebuild their rosters and adjust to the new reality. In this article, we’ll delve into the impact of these changes on the WCC and explore how teams are adapting to the shifting landscape.
The Transfer Portal’s Impact on the WCC
The transfer portal has been a game-changer for college basketball, allowing players to switch teams with relative ease. This has led to a massive influx of talent into the WCC, with 17 players transferring into the conference from outside schools. However, this influx has also led to a significant exodus of talent, with 52 players departing from the league.
The Winners and Losers of the Transfer Portal
Some teams have capitalized on the transfer portal, while others have struggled to adapt. Loyola Marymount, Washington State, and Gonzaga have been the biggest winners, snagging top talent from around the country. On the other hand, teams like Portland, Pepperdine, and San Diego have struggled to replace departing players.
The Impact on BYU Basketball
BYU basketball has been a major beneficiary of the transfer portal, snagging top assistant coach Chris Burgess away from rival Utah. This move is a significant coup for the Cougars, as Burgess is one of the top recruiters in the state. With multiple scholarships still available, BYU is well-positioned to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament.
The Future of WCC Men’s Basketball
As the WCC continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the conference is in for a wild ride. With new faces and new teams emerging, the traditional power structure is being turned on its head. Will Gonzaga continue to dominate, or will new challengers emerge? One thing is certain: the WCC is in for an exciting few years.
WCC Basketball
Chris Burgess, new assistant coach at BYU
William Kyle III, transfer student to UCLA
Loyola Marymount, one of the biggest winners of the transfer portal
Gonzaga Bulldogs, looking to continue their dominance in the WCC