Why Can't Women's Coaches Also be Bad People? with Jane Coaston
Mar 20, 2024
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New York Times and CNN contributor Jane Coaston discusses the expectations on women's coaches, the rise of women's basketball, Caitlin Clark's talent, NIL and transfer portal in a March Madness themed episode.
Women's basketball gaining popularity with record viewership and standout players like Caitlin Clark.
Discussion on coaching ethics in women's college basketball, contrasting Dawn Staley and Kim Mulkey's approaches.
Impact of transfer portal and NIL policies on college sports, providing players with more opportunities and flexibility.
Deep dives
Women's Basketball Rising in Popularity
The popularity of women's basketball is on the rise, with viewership, interest, and enthusiasm increasing significantly. Landmark achievements in women's college basketball, such as record viewership rivaling men's basketball, indicate a positive trend. Teams like South Carolina and individual standout players like Caitlin Clark and JuJu Watkins are garnering attention and showcasing the growth and competitiveness of the women's game.
Impact of Coaches in Women's Basketball
The rivalry between coaches like Dawn Staley of South Carolina and Kim Mulkey of LSU adds depth and intrigue to women's college basketball. While Staley embodies a role model image, Mulkey brings a competitive fierceness without compromising her coaching style. Mulkey's approach emphasizes winning and player development over being an ambassador for women's sports, sparking discussions about coaching styles and ethics in college basketball.
Transitioning Players with Transfer Portal and NIL
The transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies are reshaping the landscape of college sports, offering players more flexibility and opportunities. Athletes can now make decisions based on playing time, personal circumstances, or financial considerations without being bound to one program for their entire collegiate career. The ability to transfer promotes fair opportunities for student-athletes to thrive and find the right fit for their skills and aspirations.
Discussion on Fair Compensation and Player Mobility
The conversation around fair compensation for student-athletes and their increased mobility raises ethical and logistical considerations in college sports. While NIL provides avenues for players to benefit from their image and brand, issues related to continuity, team loyalty, and competitive balance emerge with player transfers. Balancing the rights of athletes with maintaining the essence of collegiate sports presents ongoing challenges and opportunities for the future of college athletics.
Fan Engagement and Team Loyalty
Engaging with sports teams as a fan involves considerations of team performance, player loyalty, and community connections. Supporting a team like the Sacramento Kings, despite challenges with inconsistent gameplay, offers unique interactions with a passionate fan base and an opportunity to connect and discuss the team online. Choosing a sports team to support involves personal preferences, community ties, and the excitement of being part of a devoted fan community.
Today a very special March Madness episode with New York Times and CNN contributor Jane Coaston. We talk about the recent ascent of women’s basketball, the gendered ways in which we always expect good, progressive behavior from women’s coaches and athletes, Caitlin Clark-as-Larry Bird and Caitlin Clark-as-baller, and a bit about NIL and the transfer portal. I’ve wanted to have Jane on the pod for a very long time and this will not disappoint if you want her very good takes on women’s sports.
Tyler will be back next week.
Enjoy!
Jay
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit goodbye.substack.com/subscribe
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