In a recent interview with The Athletic, more than 35 head coaches of women’s college basketball shared their candid opinions on various issues affecting the sport. These coaches, representing power conferences and high mid-majors, were given anonymity to express their views openly and without fear of reprisal from their programs or the NCAA. The interviews covered topics ranging from the impact of the transfer portal to the Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) regulations, and the changing landscape of college athletics.
The ever-changing college sports environment has presented new challenges for coaches, particularly with the introduction of the transfer portal and the ongoing debate surrounding student-athlete compensation. The transfer portal, which allows athletes to transfer without losing eligibility, has significantly altered the dynamics of women’s college basketball. In the past two offseasons, over 1,000 players have entered the transfer portal, leading to substantial roster changes for many teams, including Final Four contenders.
When asked to classify the transfer portal as providing “more good” or “more bad” for women’s college basketball, 69% of the coaches expressed concerns about its negative impact. Some believed that the portal offered an easy way out for players facing adversity, resulting in a lack of commitment and loyalty, which had been a unique characteristic of women’s college basketball. Coaches highlighted the challenges of retaining fans when players frequently switch programs, impacting the continuity and development of the game.
Conversely, 31% of the coaches viewed the transfer portal positively, advocating for player autonomy and freedom of movement. They argued that the portal had created more parity in the game and allowed players to find the best fit for their development, similar to the opportunities available to coaches.
In response to the question about whether recent changes in college sports had shortened their coaching careers, 54% of coaches admitted that they were considering leaving coaching sooner than expected. They cited concerns about the increased demands of recruiting, navigating NIL regulations, and the lack of job security, which had made coaching an unsustainable profession under the current landscape. Younger coaches, in particular, expressed doubts about their long-term viability in the profession.
On the other hand, 46% of coaches stated that the recent changes had not affected their career duration, emphasizing their commitment to the profession and their ability to adapt to the evolving circumstances. They acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic about their roles in fostering student-athlete development.
When asked about the one change they would make to move the game forward, coaches offered various perspectives. While some focused on improving NIL regulations and setting clear boundaries, others proposed rule changes and officiating adjustments to enhance the overall quality of the game. Additionally, coaches called for increased media coverage to promote the visibility of women’s basketball and advocated for independence from football-related decisions in realignment discussions.
The interviews with women’s college basketball coaches shed light on the complex challenges and the diverse perspectives within the sport. As the landscape of college athletics continues to evolve, these insights provide valuable considerations for the future of women’s college basketball.