Dear NABC members,
I write to you as we approach what is sure to be the most unique and challenging college basketball season in the history of our game.
That we’ve made it this far is a testament to the shared values and priorities across the sport. The level of collaboration between coaches, NCAA leaders, conferences and student-athletes – thanks to the new NABC Player Development Coalition – has never been stronger. From the outset, we approached COVID-19 as an opportunity to be flexible and receptive to new concepts. No idea was considered too far outside the box.
But the race is only beginning. It will take all of us working together – true unity – to reach the finish line.
As coaches, we are the public faces of college basketball. Our words carry power. We will set the tone for how the season is viewed. That culture of unity starts with us.
First and foremost, our priority must always remain the health and safety of student-athletes, fellow coaches, staff and our local communities. Decisions about the season will be guided by medical professionals. It’s on us to let the experts do their jobs – regardless of any on-court ramifications.
Competitive inequalities are inevitable this season. Some teams will be required to cancel games. Results will be impacted by quarantined players. Schedules will be imbalanced. Data will be incomplete. The game, simply put, won’t always be fair. We cannot, however, let these disparities distract us from the collective goal of providing student-athletes with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We owe it to our players to do everything in our power to preserve that opportunity.
Our concern for players’ holistic wellbeing has also never been more important. Virus precautions and proper injury prevention following a protracted offseason are a given, but we also must prioritize mental and emotional health – both for ourselves and our teams. Student-athletes are navigating feelings of disconnectedness, worry for loved ones, lament over opportunities lost last season and uncertainty about the upcoming year. As they process this national crisis, the friendship, support and compassionate leadership of coaches is essential.
Through it all, the NABC will remain in your corner. We will continue to advocate alongside the NCAA and other stakeholders for the good of the game and the best interests of coaches. We are hard at work developing new resources to serve you during these difficult times. Now more than ever, we are steadfastly committed to your development – on and off the court.
It’s no mystery that our profession’s reputation has taken a hit in recent years. The improper actions of a few created repercussions for us all. But true character is revealed by how we react when our backs are against the wall.
We have an opportunity to lead in the face of unprecedented circumstances. I believe in our game, I believe in each of you, and I believe history will ultimately regard coaches as having risen to the challenge.
Sincerely,
Craig Robinson
NABC Executive Director
