A quick FYI surrounding NCAA goals.

 A quick FYI surrounding NCAA goals.

Each year, talented high school players try to catch the eye of college coaches throughout the country in hopes of landing an athletic scholarship or in most cases earning a spot on a college team. According to the NCAA, which serves as the governing body to majority of college/universities athletic departments, there are approximately 537,000 high school participants in boys basketball throughout the country of which only 3.6% (19,213) will don a college uniform (of any level) compared to close to 16,500 (4.5%) of the approximate 375,000 girl participants.

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There is no doubt these statistics are not favorable, but at the same time they are not impossible.  

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Stay realistic! 

Training in ISOLATION can be counterproductive.

Using the writings of Rick Fenoglio on "isolation" training, here are five reasons why isolation training can be counterproductive:

1. Lack of Contextual Application:

Fenoglio emphasizes that isolation training focuses on specific skills in a vacuum, which can lead to a disconnect when these skills need to be applied in a game situation. For example, practicing dribbling or shooting in isolation does not replicate the dynamic and unpredictable nature of an actual game where decision-making, positioning, and reacting to defenders are crucial.

2. Neglect of Team Dynamics:

   According to Fenoglio, team sports that require players to work cohesively is undermined by Isolation training for such training does not foster the development of communication, teamwork, and understanding among players. These skills are vital for executing plays, defending effectively, and maintaining team morale during games.

3. Limited Development of In-Game Adaptability:

   Fenoglio points out that isolation training can limit a player's ability to adapt to real-game scenarios. In a game, players need to make quick decisions and adapt their skills to the flow of play, opponents' strategies, and their teammates' actions. Isolation training does not adequately prepare players for these complexities, leading to a potential gap in their overall game performance.

4. Risk of Overemphasis on Individual Skills:

   Fenoglio suggests that while individual skills are important, an overemphasis on them can lead to a player becoming one-dimensional. For example, a player who excels in shooting during isolation training might neglect other essential aspects like passing, defense, or off-the-ball movement. This imbalance can make it easier for opponents to exploit their weaknesses during a game.

5. Mental and Physical Burnout:

   Fenoglio warns that repetitive isolation drills can lead to mental and physical burnout. Engaging in the same types of drills without variation can become monotonous and demotivating, reducing the player's overall enjoyment and passion for the sport. Additionally, focusing on the same muscle groups and movements repeatedly increases the risk of overuse injuries.

In summary, Rick Fenoglio's insights highlight the limitations of isolation training in developing well-rounded players. Contextual application, team dynamics, in-game adaptability, balanced skill development, and preventing burnout are all crucial factors that isolation training often fails to address.

5 ways to solve the NIL "Crisis"

✅ Ideal Solutions to Restore Competitive Balance in College Basketball

While NIL and the transfer portal are here to stay, there are practical solutions that could level the playing field and help mid-majors remain viable. Here’s a framework of potential fixes that the NCAA, conferences, and individual programs could implement.

💡 1. NIL Revenue Sharing Model

• Current Problem: NIL currently operates as an unregulated free-market system, which disproportionately benefits high-major programs with larger collectives and booster networks. Mid-majors can’t compete financially.

• Solution: Implement revenue sharing across divisions, where a portion of the NIL revenue from high-major conferences is distributed to mid-major programs.

• How It Would Work:

  • Similar to how pro sports leagues share media revenue, the NCAA could mandate that a small percentage of major-conference NIL earnings go into a Mid-Major Development Fund.

  • This would give mid-majors more financial resources to offer competitive NIL deals and retain their top players.

• Example: A system where 5–10% of Power 4 programs’ NIL revenue goes into a fund for mid-majors could provide smaller schools with a fighting chance.

• Impact:

  • Helps mid-majors retain key players.

  • Reduces the financial gap between tiers.

  • Preserves roster continuity at mid-majors.

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🔒 2. Two-Year Transfer Commitment Rule

• Current Problem: The one-time, no-sit transfer rule allows players to switch programs freely, encouraging constant roster churn and making mid-majors vulnerable to poaching.

• Solution: Implement a two-year commitment rule for transfer players, where they must stay at their new school for at least two years.

• How It Would Work:

  • After transferring, a player is required to remain at their new school for two seasons before they are eligible to transfer again.

  • Exceptions could be made for coaching changes or family emergencies.

• Impact:

  • Reduces the frequency of portal entries.

  • Discourages players from jumping ship for short-term NIL gains.

  • Allows mid-majors more time to develop and retain talent.

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⚖️ 3. Transfer Compensation for Mid-Majors (NCAA Training Fee Model)

• Current Problem: Mid-majors invest in player development only to have high-majors swoop in and benefit without compensating the original program.

• Solution: Create an NCAA-sanctioned training compensation model (similar to FIFA’s system in soccer), where high-majors must pay a transfer fee to mid-majors when they sign their players.

• How It Would Work:

  • If a mid-major player transfers to a high-major program, the high-major school pays the original program a transfer fee (based on the player’s scholarship year or playing contributions).

  • This fee could be either direct monetary compensation or NIL-equivalent credits to support mid-major collectives.

• Example: If a breakout star transfers from a mid-major to a Power 5 school, the high-major program must pay a fee (e.g., $100K) to the mid-major’s athletic department or NIL fund.

• Impact:

  • Mid-majors are incentivized to develop players without fearing total roster depletion.

  • Adds financial accountability for high-majors.

  • Helps mid-majors reinvest in their programs.

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🔥 4. NIL Cap or Tiered Collective System

• Current Problem: High-majors’ massive NIL collectives create an uneven playing field, turning recruiting into a financial arms race.

• Solution: Implement a salary-cap-like system where schools are placed into NIL tiers with spending limits.

• How It Would Work:

  • Divide schools into three tiers based on their conference revenue.

  • Each tier would have a cap on the total amount they can distribute in NIL deals.

  • Mid-majors would be placed in a tier with a competitive cap, preventing high-majors from grossly outspending them.

• Impact:

  • Creates a more level playing field.

  • Prevents high-majors from stockpiling talent with massive NIL deals.

  • Allows mid-majors to retain more players.

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🔧 5. NCAA Oversight on NIL Deals to Prevent Tampering

• Current Problem: NIL tampering (contacting players at other schools through third parties) is rampant, allowing high-majors to poach mid-major stars with backdoor offers.

• Solution: Implement NCAA-mandated transparency and enforcement to prevent tampering.

• How It Would Work:

  • Require all NIL offers to be publicly disclosed to the NCAA for verification.

  • Enforce tampering rules with strict penalties (loss of scholarships, fines) for programs caught offering under-the-table NIL deals to players already under scholarship.

• Impact:

• Deters high-majors from illegally luring mid-major players.

• Creates more transparency in NIL negotiations.

• Protects mid-majors from predatory recruiting tactics.

✅ Ideal Outcome: Balance & Sustainability

Combining these solutions would create a more sustainable and competitive college basketball landscape:

• Revenue sharing gives mid-majors more financial strength.

• Transfer compensation ensures player development is rewarded.

• Two-year transfer commitments promote roster continuity.

• NIL caps prevent financial monopolies.

• Anti-tampering measures preserve fair recruiting practices.

ve Cinderella stories—schools like Loyola Chicago and Florida Gulf Coast making deep NCAA Tournament runs. However, with the best players being poached before their teams can truly break through, those magical mid-major runs are becoming rarer

Top 5 Adverse Effects of the Rise of Basketball Skill Developers in the U.S.

1. Diminished Game IQ and Decision-Making – Players develop high-level skills but struggle with reading the game, making quick decisions, and understanding team concepts like spacing, timing, and defensive rotations.

2. Reduced Competitive Toughness – Many skill workouts lack the physicality and intensity of real-game situations, leading to players who struggle with contact, effort plays, and resilience in tough matchups.

3. Over-Reliance on Isolation Skills – Players often train in ways that prioritize 1-on-1 scoring, making it difficult for them to adapt to structured offenses where ball movement, cutting, and screen usage are essential.

4. Erosion of Defensive Fundamentals – Skill training heavily focuses on offensive moves, often neglecting defensive footwork, positioning, and the effort required to become a two-way player.

5. Misperception of What Translates to Winning – Social media-driven training culture glorifies highlight moves and trick shots, which don’t always contribute to team success, leading players to focus on style over substance.

Conclusion

While the rise of basketball skill developers has enhanced individual talent, it has also contributed to an imbalance in how the game is played. Players are more skilled than ever but often lack the mental and physical toughness required to compete at the highest levels. The overemphasis on isolated skill work has created gaps in game IQ, defensive ability, and overall team-oriented play. To preserve the integrity of basketball in the U.S., skill development must evolve to emphasize not just technical proficiency but also decision-making, competitiveness, and a true understanding of what leads to winning at the highest levels.

Kentucky Just Flipped the Script on College Sports — And It Could Change Everything for Athletes

In a groundbreaking move, the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees has approved a plan that could redefine the business of college athletics. The decision? Turn the entire UK Athletics department into a Limited Liability Company (LLC) called Champions Blue.

Yes, you read that right — an SEC powerhouse just reorganized its athletic operations like a startup.

So, What Is Champions Blue?

Champions Blue is more than a catchy name. It represents the University of Kentucky’s new public-private partnership, allowing the athletic department to operate like a business — raising private funds, managing its own financials, and, most importantly, preparing for the coming era of direct revenue sharing with athletes.

This move positions Kentucky ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving college sports landscape — one where the traditional model of amateurism is fading fast.

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Why This Matters for Athletes

Here’s how this shift could directly benefit Kentucky’s student-athletes:

1. Revenue Sharing Becomes Realistic

Pending approval of the House v. NCAA settlement, athletes may soon be eligible to receive a portion of athletic department revenue. Under the LLC model, UK could execute those payments more efficiently — legally and logistically.

2. Enhanced NIL Opportunities

As a standalone entity, Champions Blue may allow for greater flexibility in NIL deals — including co-branded agreements that use university logos, facilities, and even content teams to build athlete brands.

3. Access to Private Capital

Instead of relying solely on university budgets and ticket revenue, Champions Blue can attract private donors, corporate sponsors, and investors. That means more funding for facilities, support staff, mental health services, and off-court development.

4. Flexibility to Structure Athlete Benefits

From performance bonuses and career stipends to insurance and post-career support, the LLC structure opens doors to creative ways of supporting athletes — beyond the limitations of a traditional scholarship.

5. A Pro-Like Model with Student Support

Champions Blue creates a space where athletes are still students — but with access to the tools, resources, and financial opportunities of the professional world.

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The Big Picture: A Blueprint for the Future

What Kentucky just did could become a model for schools across the country. As the NCAA continues to loosen restrictions and legal pressure builds around athlete compensation, programs that can adapt quickly — like UK — will attract top talent and maintain competitiveness.

This is more than a structural change. It’s a signal that athletes matter — not just on game day, but at the decision-making table.

In the business of college sports, the players are the product.
And finally, at Kentucky, they may start sharing in the profits.

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Stay tuned — this could be the play that changes the game for good.

The WNBA’s Next Three: Why Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia Are Ready for Expansion

The WNBA is growing—on the court, in the stands, and across the cultural landscape. With ratings rising, merchandise flying off the shelves, and top ex-college stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese commanding national headlines, the time is now for strategic league expansion. But where should the W land next?

Here are three cities that not only make sense—but feel inevitable.

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1. Cleveland, Ohio: A Midwest Rivalry Hub in the Making

Cleveland last hosted a WNBA franchise with the Cleveland Rockers, one of the league’s original teams. Though they folded in 2003, the city’s passion for basketball hasn’t faded. In fact, it’s primed to pick up where it left off—with more infrastructure and more fan appetite than ever.

Why Cleveland is Back on the Map:

• Strong regional ties: Close proximity to Chicago, Indiana, and (potentially) Detroit allows for rivalries and reduced travel costs.

• Cavaliers’ backing potential: With Dan Gilbert’s resources and Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse already in place, the city can launch seamlessly.

• Underrated hoops culture: Northeast Ohio quietly develops some of the best girls’ basketball talent in the country.

• WNBA All-Star host history: Cleveland has proven its ability to support marquee women’s events.

Expansion to Cleveland not only revives a beloved former franchise—it strengthens the league’s Midwest backbone.

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2. Detroit, Michigan: A Championship Legacy Waiting to Return

Detroit isn’t new to the WNBA conversation—in fact, it once set the standard.

From 1998 to 2009, the Detroit Shock were a force, capturing three championships in six years under the guidance of Bill Laimbeer and anchored by legends like Swin Cash, Deanna Nolan, and Cheryl Ford. The team’s relocation to Tulsa in 2010 left a championship-sized void in a city that breathes basketball.

Why It Makes Sense Now:

• Built-in fanbase and nostalgia: Reintroducing the franchise taps into history and loyalty.

• Top-15 media market: Plenty of opportunity for branding, partnerships, and local media coverage.

• Basketball hotbed: Detroit’s high school and grassroots programs consistently produce elite talent.

• NBA synergy: A return could align with the Detroit Pistons, creating operational ease and shared venue benefits with Little Caesars Arena.

In many ways, a WNBA return to Detroit isn’t a gamble—it’s a restoration.Cleveland, Ohio: A Midwest Rivalry Hub in the Making

Cleveland last hosted a WNBA franchise with the Cleveland Rockers, one of the league’s original teams. Though they folded in 2003, the city’s passion for basketball hasn’t faded. In fact, it’s primed to pick up where it left off—with more infrastructure and more fan appetite than ever.

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3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: The Sleeping Giant

Despite being one of America’s top five media markets, Philadelphia remains without a WNBA team. That’s hard to believe considering its deep basketball roots and passionate sports culture. But what was once a glaring omission might soon become the league’s crown jewel.

Why Philly Feels Inevitable:

• Unmatched market size and visibility: An East Coast stronghold would bolster TV deals and brand awareness.

• Grassroots and college talent: The Big 5 schools (Temple, Villanova, Penn, etc.) and Philly-area high schools produce WNBA-caliber players regularly.

• No pro women’s teams currently: The city’s rabid sports fans are more than ready to rally around a women's franchise.

• Player ties: WNBA stars like Natasha Cloud and Kahleah Copper have Philly roots—local heroes with national platforms.

With the right ownership group and community engagement, Philadelphia could be both a business success and a cultural movement.

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The Bottom Line

The WNBA is entering a new era—one defined by visibility, investment, and generational talent. If the league is going to expand (as Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has indicated it will), it needs cities that offer both infrastructure and identity. Detroit has the rings. Cleveland has the region. Philadelphia has the reach.

These cities aren’t just “on the list.” They’re ready to lead.

4 things that frighten me about today’s youth basketball landscape.

Youth basketball is filled with opportunities, but as a trainer, there are serious concerns that keep me up at night. While the game continues to grow, many young athletes are being steered in the wrong direction due to misinformation, unrealistic expectations, and a lack of proper development. 

Here are four things that frighten me about today’s youth basketball landscape. 

The Shift Toward Entertainment Over Development – Social media has made youth basketball more about highlights than substance. Players focus on mixtapes, flashy moves, and social media engagement rather than skill development, team play, and fundamentals. This breeds bad habits and unrealistic expectations.

Overuse and Injury Risks – Many young athletes play year-round with no real offseason, leading to burnout and injuries. The pressure to constantly be seen by scouts and play in every tournament makes rest and recovery an afterthought, increasing the risk of long-term damage.

Lack of Basketball IQ – With so many games and so little structured teaching, players don’t develop the ability to read the game, make the right decisions, or understand spacing and timing. AAU and travel ball often emphasize pace and athleticism over actual basketball intelligence.

Parental Misconceptions and Pressure – Many parents believe more exposure equals more scholarships, leading them to push their kids into every event without considering proper training or fit. Unrealistic expectations create unnecessary stress for young players and can hurt their love for the game.

Conclusion:

While these issues are concerning, they’re not impossible to fix. With the right guidance, proper training, and a shift in focus from hype to development, young players can still reach their full potential. As trainers, parents, and coaches, it’s our responsibility to ensure that basketball remains a tool for growth, not just a means for exposure.