While I am for NCAA athletes receiving a stipend to cover living expenses, I am against college athletes being paid as I feel the value of a college scholarship has significant value. Both the value of tuition, room, board and books- but more importantly the lifetime value of having a college education.
That said I also believe the NCAA has to bring back integrity to the academic aspect of college athletics. I remember a time (maybe 40 years ago- when it wasn't uncommon for college athletes to be declared "academically ineligible". The NCAA needs require all players show academic progress toward degree completion after 4 years. IMO that is not unrealistic as athletes are required to be on campus during summer school. The NCAA should also require minimum GPA.
I realize billions of dollars flow into college athletics, mainly for football and basketball. But those monies benefit student athletes in Olympic sports that don't generate revenue. The reality is 98 student athletes generate revenue to benefit hundreds of athletes.
IMO too much blame is put on the NCAA for the currently college basketball system. I would put 50% or more of the blame on the NBA.
That said I also believe the NCAA has to bring back integrity to the academic aspect of college athletics. I remember a time (maybe 40 years ago- when it wasn't uncommon for college athletes to be declared "academically ineligible". The NCAA needs require all players show academic progress toward degree completion after 4 years. IMO that is not unrealistic as athletes are required to be on campus during summer school. The NCAA should also require minimum GPA.
I realize billions of dollars flow into college athletics, mainly for football and basketball. But those monies benefit student athletes in Olympic sports that don't generate revenue. The reality is 98 student athletes generate revenue to benefit hundreds of athletes.
IMO too much blame is put on the NCAA for the currently college basketball system. I would put 50% or more of the blame on the NBA.
- Their prohibition on allowing HS players to enter the NBA draft has created this environment.
- Their resistance to create a minor league system results a system where kids not interested in academics are forced to attend college. It also creates a system where families in poverty are tempted to take under the table payments.