Timing is everything. And right now, Kelly Sheffield isn't thrilled with the NCAA's clock.
Portal Chaos
As Wisconsin volleyball gears up for a massive showdown with Stanford on Dec. 12, the NCAA transfer portal has swung open, creating a whirlwind of emotions. Sheffield, never one to mince words, calls the timing a "damn shame."
"Teams that are still playing — they want to focus on their current teams and their current rosters," Sheffield said. And he's right. How do you focus on the court when the future's knocking at the door?
Players Caught in the Crossfire
Let's be real, it's an emotional rollercoaster for everyone involved. With the portal open from Dec. 7 to Jan. 5, players like Izzy Starck from Penn State and Alexis Stucky from Florida are already making moves. That's while the top 16 teams, full of potential transfer gold, are battling for a national championship.
"It’s not just playing, but you’ve got finals and things like that," Sheffield pointed out. Finals, homesickness, and now... transfer decisions.
Staff on High Alert
For Wisconsin, it's about balancing act. They've got their eyes set on another Final Four, but they can't ignore the portal. With Mimi Colyer from Oregon and Alicia Andrew from Baylor leading the charge this season, the Badgers know the power of a well-timed transfer.
Enter Gary White, Wisconsin's director of player personnel and analytics. He's the guy keeping tabs on every portal ripple while Sheffield focuses on Stanford. "You have to have somebody on staff that’s kind of paying attention to that," Sheffield said.
What's Next?
Sheffield's got his 13th consecutive regional semifinal match to worry about. But this portal timing? It's a distraction that teams have to navigate.
And from here… it’s only going to get more intense.
Source: jsonline.com
