First Transfer Portal Exit of Offseason Hits Duke Women’s Basketball

The offseason has officially begun for Duke women’s basketball, and with it comes the inevitable roster shake-ups that accompany every college basketball program in the transfer portal era. In what marks the first major departure of the offseason, a key player has decided to enter the transfer portal, signaling potential changes ahead for head coach Kara Lawson and her staff as they prepare for the 2024-25 season.

While Duke remains one of the premier programs in women’s college basketball, player movement has become more frequent due to the increasing influence of the transfer portal. The Blue Devils now face the challenge of replacing a key contributor, adjusting their roster strategy, and ensuring that they remain competitive in a loaded ACC.

In this deep dive, we’ll break down:

• Who is leaving and why
• What this means for Duke’s roster and rotation
• Potential transfer targets Duke could pursue
• How the Blue Devils can stay in championship contention

Who is Leaving Duke and Why?

The first official transfer portal entry for Duke women’s basketball this offseason is (Player’s Name), a (position) who played a key role in the 2023-24 season.

Player Profile

• Name: (Player’s Name)
• Position: (Guard/Forward/Center)
• Class: (Freshman/Sophomore/Junior/Senior)
• Stats from 2023-24: (Points per game, rebounds, assists, shooting percentages, etc.)

Why is She Transferring?

While every player’s decision to enter the transfer portal is unique, some common factors often play a role in their departure. In this case, (Player’s Name)’s decision likely stems from one or more of the following:

Playing Time & Role

• If she was coming off the bench or saw inconsistent minutes, she may have sought a larger role at another program.

Coaching & System Fit

• Sometimes, players feel that their style of play doesn’t align with a coach’s system and want a fresh start in a system where they can thrive.

Personal Reasons

• Family proximity, academic preferences, or personal circumstances can all influence a player’s decision to transfer.

Team Dynamics & Competition

• With new recruits and transfers coming in, a player may feel they’re getting pushed down the depth chart and look for an opportunity elsewhere.

While (Player’s Name) was a valuable piece for Duke, the Blue Devils have plenty of depth and talent to adjust to this loss. However, the departure does raise questions about the team’s roster construction heading into next season.

What This Means for Duke’s Rotation in 2024-25

The departure of (Player’s Name) affects Duke’s depth chart and game plan moving forward.

Projected 2024-25 Depth Chart (Without the Departed Player)

Position	Projected Starter	Key Reserves
Point Guard	(Returning PG)	(Backup PG)
Shooting Guard	(Returning SG)	(Backup SG)
Small Forward	(Returning SF)	(Backup SF)
Power Forward	(Returning PF)	(Backup PF)
Center	(Returning C)	(Backup C)

How Does This Departure Impact Duke?

Depth Concerns – If (Player’s Name) was a key contributor, Duke may need to look for a replacement in the portal or rely more on younger players.

More Opportunities for Returning Players – A transfer exit often opens doors for other players to step into bigger roles.

Recruiting & Transfer Strategy Adjustments – Kara Lawson and her staff may now adjust their recruiting and transfer portal priorities to fill the gap left by this departure.

If Duke wants to remain competitive in the ACC and make a deep NCAA Tournament run, they’ll need to ensure their roster is well-balanced and ready to compete at a high level.

Potential Transfer Targets Duke Could Pursue

With one scholarship spot now open, the Blue Devils may explore the transfer portal to find a replacement.

Key Areas of Need

Depending on the position of the departing player, Duke could focus on adding:

A Versatile Scorer – Someone who can create their own shot and provide offensive firepower.
A Defensive Stopper – A lockdown defender to maintain Duke’s defensive intensity.
A Skilled Big – If the departure affects Duke’s frontcourt, they may look for a rebounding and shot-blocking presence.

Possible Transfer Portal Targets

• (Transfer Player 1 – Team & Stats)
• (Transfer Player 2 – Team & Stats)
• (Transfer Player 3 – Team & Stats)

Duke has already been active in the transfer market in recent years, landing key additions that have helped strengthen the team. If they can secure an impact transfer, they’ll be in strong shape for next season.

How Duke Stays a Contender Despite the Transfer Exit

Losing a player to the transfer portal is never easy, but Duke has the pieces to remain one of the best teams in the ACC. Here’s how they can move forward and stay competitive:

1. Development of Returning Players

Duke’s player development has been one of its biggest strengths under Kara Lawson. If younger players step up, the team may not feel the loss as much.

2. Strategic Use of the Transfer Portal

Bringing in a proven player from the portal can help fill the void immediately.

3. Building Around Star Players

Duke still has elite talent on the roster. If (Duke’s star players) continue to dominate, they can lead the team to another deep postseason run.

4. Adjusting the Game Plan

Coach Lawson may tweak the offensive and defensive schemes to maximize the talent on the roster post-transfer.