In the era of NIL and transfers, the Sweet 16 is filled with veteran teams that have stuck together

The Sweet 16 has several teams with veteran players who have stuck together. Purdue, for example, has players like Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer, and Trey Kauffman-Renn who have been with the team for multiple years. These teams have emphasized continuity and development over recruiting new players through transfers. Five teams in the Sweet 16 have at least four starters who have played multiple seasons for their current coaches. Duke and Michigan State have starting lineups with players who have only played for their current teams. Purdue's veteran players have helped the team reach the Sweet 16. Other teams, like Iowa and Iowa State, also have veteran players who have contributed to their success.