Player types in the portal.
1) Player wants to transfer for potential playing time. These players can see the writing on the wall. There are players ahead of them that will keep them on the bench for the rest of their time. They want to go to a program with less talent, where they will have a chance to shine. A prime example of this is Saint Thomas who starred at UNCo this year. At his previous school he never saw the floor.
2) Player wants to move up a notch. This can either be for better development or for the additional money that can come from NIL contracts. Another prime example of this is Saint Thomas. Makes a name for himself at UNCo and can now cash in on it.
3) Player is unhappy where they are. They think it may make them happy to be in a new location, with new people around them. Maybe it will and maybe it won't. They are taking a chance and the program that brings them in is as well.
4) Player is a problem child of some sort. No matter how good they are, the coach just doesn't want them around. Coach tells the player that they will not be renewed for the coming year. Chances are good that the problem child will continue to be a problem where ever they go.
5) Player is at the end of the bench, is not getting better, and has no chance to ever help the team. Sometimes, these are good kids and good students, just not good players. The coach tells them that they will not be renewed for the coming year. Every team has players like this. They will either move down or completely out of basketball. Coaches will often help them find a new home that fits their skill level. Sometimes, these players will be moving from a high major to a mid major, or a mid major to a D11/D111. Some of these players ultimately find out that they can't play at the lower level either.
When you are just looking at a list of players, it is hard to know what category they might fall in. Coaches need to do their homework on potential players, to have a better idea of what they may be getting. Even after the due dilligence, you are never 100% sure. People lie.