Although the attention of the greater basketball universe is almost unilaterally focused on the situation between the NBA and its corporate partners in the People’s Republic of China, one of the most important figures in American amateur sports took what would appear to be an unlikely stand in support of new legislation that would allow college athletes to profit off of their likeness.
Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski came out in support of the California Fair Pay to Play Act, which was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom just over a week ago on a special edition of UNINTERRUPTED and HBO’s “The Shop.” Here’s Coach K’s full statement, via Duke Chronicle.
“The Fair Pay to Play Act that was recently signed into law in California will likely lead to far-reaching change. We’ve already seen similar bills introduced in several states. I don’t—and won’t—pretend to understand all the complexities of such a change. However, it is a sign of the times that we in college athletics must continually adapt, albeit in a sensible manner. While we have made significant progress in recent years, we have not always responded to the needs and rights of our players swiftly, and frankly, we’re playing catchup after years of stagnant rules. I hope and trust that not only will there be a plan to put the student athletes’ best interests at the forefront, but that we’ll also have a firm plan for implementation at the national level. College athletics provides an amazing option for hundreds of thousands of talented men and women who choose to attend institutions across the country. We must adapt to ensure it stays that way.”
Although Coach K is perhaps the most recognizable coach in American amateur sports today, he’s recently realized the need to adapt within the changing environment.
Coach K’s embrace of one-and-done players has allowed him and Duke to not only survive the one-and-done era, but thrive during it by landing top recruits like Zion Williamson. And even as the one-and-done era’s end appears in sight, adjusting to the times will help Coach K’s program continue to maintain dominance by continuing to add the next Zions or Bronny Jrs of the World.
