Steve Alford criticizes college basketball's NIL, transfer portal changes

Steve Alford, head coach of Nevada basketball, expressed strong criticism of the current state of college basketball following his team's exit from the Mountain West Tournament. He highlighted how the NIL (name, image, likeness) policy and the transfer portal have fundamentally altered recruiting dynamics, stating the situation is 'ridiculous' and detrimental to the sport. Alford noted that financial discussions now dominate conversations with recruits, overshadowing traditional considerations like academics and facilities. He emphasized that many players receive substantial NIL deals before proving themselves on the court, which he believes sends a poor message. Alford called for coaches to adapt to this new model, but lamented the impact on team cohesion and academic priorities. He underscored the need for a return to a focus on player development rather than simply financial incentives.