Maryland forward Elijah Saunders announces plans to enter transfer portal

Elijah Saunders, a forward for Maryland, plans to enter the NCAA transfer portal, as reported on August 18, 2026. This decision follows a court ruling and the introduction of the five-for-five rule in NCAA eligibility, which could allow him to compete for a fifth year. Saunders has played four years at San Diego State, Virginia, and Maryland, and he averaged 9 points and 4.4 rebounds this past season. His career is influenced by his status as a member of the Class of 2022. Other players, including Michigan State's Jaxon Kohler, also plan to enter the transfer portal, taking advantage of recent changes to eligibility rules.

• 5:46 PMYahoo Sports — Maryland forward Elijah Saunders plans to enter NCAA transfer portal