Superstar guard Hailey Van Lith transfers to LSU

The GIST: Just ask Taylor — breakup season has officially begun. This week has brought some blockbuster transfers around the sports world, and we’re here with all the tea...

• ICYMI: our pod features a great explainer of all things transfer portal, aka the massive database of student-athletes seeking greener pastures. Happy listening.

Hailey Van Lith: Earlier this month, Louisville’s superstar guard shocked the women’s basketball world when she announced her plans to transfer. Yesterday, after weeks of rumors, the portal’s biggest name made things official with reigning national champ LSU.

• She’ll play co-star (and likely create a trash-talking powerhouse) with Angel Reese under the leadership of head coach and braid twin Kim Mulkey next season. With a roster this stacked, fans are already expecting the Tigers to run it back.

Tyler Buchner: Notre Dame football QB Buchner knew his starting position was in jeopardy when Wake Forest veteran Sam Hartman transferred to the Fighting Irish in January. Following Saturday’s spring game, Buchner saw the writing on the wall and rolled to the Tide, joining former ND offensive coordinator Tommy Rees in Alabama.

Zooming out: As of April 2021, transfers no longer have to wait a year to compete. In conjunction with the still-unfolding effects of NIL, the transfer portal has revolutionized college sports. Portal season now feels more like professional free agency — and it’s becoming just as lucrative for players.

• While critics worry the wealthiest programs will hoard talent with the promise of NIL money, supporters argue it’s introduced a new level of parity to the college game. But no matter your feelings, the portal is here to stay, and teams better be ready for it.