September 28th, 2017

It has been a sad week for the sport I love, college basketball.

 

The news of an FBI investigation leading to numerous arrests involving individuals associated with college basketball was alarming. Four assistant coaches of Division I schools -- Chuck Person of Auburn, Tony Bland of USC, Book Richardson of Arizona and Lamont Evans of Oklahoma State were all suspended immediately. Then came Rick Pitino's farewell at Louisville. 

 

Yes, a cesspool exists in the college hoops scene. Recruiting is a nightmare as AAU coaches can have an impact. Shoe companies get involved too 

 

College basketball has given me a great life. It is my heart and soul. This news really broke my heart. I was crushed.

 

People are innocent until proven guilty, but it is a different ballgame with the FBI involved. Wiretapping, allegations of fraud, money laundering, etc. Criminal charges make a difference.

 

Agents and shoe companies are making situations out of hand. You have kids reclassified and becoming one-and-done stars. They gain eligibility out of nowhere. Are they suddenly Rhodes Scholars?

 

If the charges are valid, I hope the FBI gets everyone that is involved. I know a lot of people feel this is just the tip of the iceberg and that is sad. The game needs to be cleaned up. Perhaps it is time to have a czar in charge of the sport.