Indiana State star center entering transfer portal

With Avila's move, all five of Indiana State's former starters are reportedly now in the portal.

Sports 10's Rick Semmler reported that Avila could fetch as much as $250,000 in the NIL market, which is more than half of Indiana State's entire NIL funds.

Avila was named First-Team All-Missouri Valley for his breakout 2023-24 season. Sporting rec specs and an unassuming physical build, he became something of a folk hero in college basketball. 

He was undoubtedly the best player on an Indiana State team that was arguably the biggest snub on Selection Sunday.

He averaged 17.4 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.1 assists during his sophomore season. He shot 53.6% from the field, including 39.4% on 4.2 three-point attempts per game.

Avila should command a robust market in the transfer portal. With a potential NIL windfall looming, he'll likely find himself at a big-name program. 

One team to watch out for is Arkansas, which recently made a huge splash and hired head coach John Calipari away from Kentucky. The Razorbacks will undoubtedly look to contend quickly for a national title.

On3 listed Arkansas' NIL Collective as one of the most ambitious in the country in June 2023. After his hiring, On3's Pete Nakos reported that Calipari "will have 'at least' $5 million annually in NIL funds to disperse."

Avila could also remain in-state and transfer to Purdue, which should be in the market for a big with Zach Edey headed to the NBA Draft.

Any major college basketball program would benefit from having Avila on its roster, both for his on-court production and the following he brings off it.