The board men are getting paid

TL;DR

Teams are significantly increasing their spending on quality big men in the transfer portal, paying $1.3 million for every $1 million of value at the center position. This trend reflects the high demand and leverage associated with centers, impacting coaching strategies and roster decisions.

Mar 2, 2026; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Duke Blue Devils forward Cameron Boozer (12) lays the ball up under pressure from NC State Wolfpack forward Musa Sagnia (13) and NC State Wolfpack guard Terrance Arceneaux (21) during the first half at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: Zachary Taft-Imagn Images | Zachary Taft-Imagn Images

The cost of doing business in the transfer portal is up this offseason, and teams are paying a hefty premium on quality big men, which comes as a surprise to nobody. Some early portal data from Evan Miya indicates that teams are overpaying centers more often than players at other positions—again not surprising, given the leverage and demands involved here.

Teams are paying $1.3 million for every $1 million of value at the center spot, so there is a definite height tax, and your coach and your boosters better have themselves prepared to pay it, especially early in the process. If you simply must have your big shiny reboundy guy, you may have to make sacrifices elsewhere. (Or not, apparently, if you’re Louisville.)

It’s extra tough when your priorities are everywhere, but so it goes for Justin Gainey and most other new head coaches in this era. When you look at numbers like this, suddenly it makes a lot of sense to try and keep Musa Sagnia and Mikey Wilkins on the roster.

Q&A

Why are teams paying more for centers in the transfer portal?

Teams are paying more for centers due to high demand and leverage, resulting in a 'height tax' where they spend $1.3 million for every $1 million of value.

What does the term 'height tax' mean in college basketball recruiting?

'Height tax' refers to the increased costs associated with acquiring taller players, particularly centers, in the transfer portal, reflecting their perceived value and demand.

How does the spending on big men affect college basketball coaching strategies?

The increased spending on big men forces coaches to make strategic sacrifices elsewhere on their rosters, impacting team composition and recruitment priorities.