Many 2026 March Madness teams spent big on their college basketball rosters, but some programs are preparing to pay even more for next season.
The transfer portal has become a show-stopping seasonal occurrence across multiple college sports. However, as the NCAA Tournament wraps up soon many teams are looking to bolster their rosters for next season.
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On3 reporter Pete Nakos detailed some of the highest-spending programs and what they could be looking to offer players for the 2026-27 season.
According to Nakos, his sources indicate that all four teams left in March Madness have rosters constructed for over $8 million. However, other top programs like Arkansas and Kentucky could be willing to spend even more next year.
Below are some of the schools that are preparing to shell out big bucks to improve their college basketball squads.
Top-spending 2026 March Madness teams ahead of transfer portal
Kentucky – $22 million. The Wildcats reportedly had the most expensive squad in 2026 despite not making a run deep into March Madness.
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North Carolina – $14 million. The Tar Heels have many decisions to make, including at head coach, after losing in the Round of 64. However, North Carolina had one of the biggest transfer portal spends last season.
Arkansas – Over $10 million. John Calipari’s team exceeded expectations and Darius Acuff’s rise certainly made the Razorbacks a fun SEC program.
Kansas – Over $10 million. The Jayhawks ran into a tough East Region at the NCAA Tournament. However, bill Self still had a very talented and expensive roster to work with, featuring Darryn Peterson.
Tennessee – $8.5 million. Rick Barnes and Co. reached the Elite Eight with many talented freshman like Nate Ament, but the Volunteers also had some strong veteran figures in the team as well.
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Arizona – Over $10 million. The Wildcats are always one of the biggest teams in college basketball. Nakos expects the school to spend big next season after making a deep run in March
Michigan – Over $10 million. The Final Four team meets Arizona for a spot in the national title game. The Wolverines will need to reconfigure though after likely losing several players to the NBA.
St. John’s – $10 million. Rick Pitino has revitalized the Red Storm and celebrity booster Mike Repole is willing to help fund the program. St. John’s will keep spending as long as Pitino is leading the charge.
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Florida – $10 million. The Gators didn’t repeat as national champions, but it’s clear Florida is a regular powerhouse and a team that can easily recruit top talent.
Houston – Over $10 million. Nakos believes the Cougars could expand their transfer portal budget significantly next season after Kelvin Sampson’s group came up short again.
