That's a wild take that completely misses how modern roster construction works. The portal isn't desperation, it's a necessity, and programs ignoring it are getting left behind. You talk about chemistry, but UConn's 3-9 record last season with that "core" shows development alone isn't enough. Colorado's 43 transfers might be chaotic, but they're addressing clear talent deficits immediately. The idea that a team can just develop its way out of the cellar without significant portal infusion is naive. Look at the numbers: UConn ranked 120th in total offense last year. That's not a culture problem, it's a talent problem. Sustainable building requires using every tool available, and the portal is the most impactful one right now. Your "right pieces" narrative sounds good, but the results haven't been there. Meanwhile, Oklahoma State won 10 games last year because of their portal work. They turned over half their roster and played for a conference title. That's not a circus, that's a blueprint. The "mercernaries" line is pure cope. Teams with high portal usage are winning more games, period. The respect comes with wins, not with claiming moral superiority for a slower approach. While you're praising your culture, other teams are actively upgrading their rosters to actually compete. The Big 12 is wide open, and the teams aggressively working the portal are the ones setting the tempo. UConn's method hasn't produced a winning season in years. Maybe it's time to try something bolder.