Agree, a couple reasons to think perhaps we are in a better position.Trying to envision how a potential big donor would view the situation this year compared to last...DaveT said:I'm not sure being on a top team is always the main goal. Players also want money, playing time, and exposure. Being on a top team is great, but not if you're on the bench or sharing time.oskidunker said:
Why would a player want to come here assuming the money is in the ball,park? Anyone wanting to be on a top 25 team wont. "Come to Cal and be the first person to sign. Sorry we dont know who else might be coming. " What's the pitch and will they buy it?And dont tell me we are a great academic institution. They wont care
Cal offers:
- A lot of playing time & the potential to play a major role on the team
- A fast-paced offense that allows guys to showcase skills
- Exposure & competition in a top basketball conference
- An improving program
- A coach/staff with NBA experience
- A demonstrated ability to prepare/showcase players for the NBA (Tyson)
- Access to a major media market with the potential for additional NIL opportunities
Not saying Cal can compete with top programs for marquee guys, but if they are competitive with NIL, I think there are several reasons to believe we can attract good players. Last year we had a brand new coach, were coming off an historically embarrassing season, were part of a collapsing conference, and had zero student interest. And we still landed several good players. I think we're in a better position now.
Seems like getting acclimated to the new lay of the land - NIL directly building rosters - may have been tough to wrap heads around for some (not all) of the older donors, especially at Cal. Now, while still the Wild West in some ways, donors perhaps have more of a comfort level and clarity with the new reality.
Also, the Fox shambles and Knowlton leadership question marks (to put it kindly) were a huge drag on program perception. A year in, Madsen's positive leadership and inspiring force of personality, combined with some more entertaining style of play, better results, and enthusiasm/butts in seats in Haas puts the direction of the program in a much more positive light. I think this could especially be a factor with more casual BB fans and/or those who care more about FB.
