Albany men's basketball coach Dwayne Killings has proposed a two-way contract system to help mid-major programs navigate the challenges of the NCAA transfer portal and NIL deals.

He argues that many players are unprepared for high-major competition and often transfer down to mid-major programs after just one year, which can hinder their development.

To address this, Killings plans to utilize an expected increase in scholarship limits from 13 to 15 players to accommodate these 'boomerang transfers' who can develop and potentially return to high-major programs.

His initiative aims to bring players from high-major schools to UAlbany for skill development before they might return to their original programs.

The recent college basketball transfer portal deadline saw over 2,200 eligible players entering the portal, marking the most active transfer cycle in history.

As a former transfer himself, Killings understands the pressures of high-major expectations and is actively seeking solutions in the current chaotic transfer environment.

This surge in transfers has created significant financial commitments and anxiety among coaches and athletic directors across college basketball.

Despite potential financial and logistical challenges, Killings' proposal represents a significant shift in recruitment, aiming to stabilize mid-major basketball programs and enhance player opportunities.

The proposal involves collaboration between mid-major and larger schools, where larger programs may contribute funds to support player development while addressing scholarship and NIL concerns.

Drawing on his experience in the NBA G League, Killings advocates for a developmental model similar to professional leagues that emphasizes skill cultivation.

He has discussed this innovative approach with coaches from the Big East and Big Ten, emphasizing its potential benefits for both high-major and mid-major programs.

Incorporating NIL agreements, Killings suggests that high-major collectives could financially support players during their developmental year at UAlbany, allowing them to maintain their original NIL earnings.