Geno Interview - Arkansas Pregame

[Amashutcha]

Huge shoutout to UCTV for placing chapters in the video.

 

[D J B]

An outstanding interview with Geno. So many things covered, and great insight into his thinking, the players, and what his hopes are for this season. Kudos all around.

 

[eebmg]

But I wish he would not try to get into the subtleties and perceived hidden issues of the NIL stuff. The horse has left the barn.

 

[Stymie]

But I wish he would not try to get into the subtleties and perceived hidden issues of the NIL stuff. The horse has left the barn.

But it is a legitimate concern for a coach.
Could greatly affect the team chemistry.
Theoretically, does a teammate that averages 20 points a game on 39% shooting and tooling around campus in a Beemer create friction with a player that averages 11 rebounds a game and drives a ‘09 Hundai?
Yeah, that COULD create a problem.
Coach has a right to be concerned.

 

[eebmg]

But it is a legitimate concern for a coach.
Could greatly affect the team chemistry.
Theoretically, does a teammate that averages 20 points a game on 39% shooting and tooling around campus in a Beemer create friction with a player that averages 11 rebounds a game and drives a ‘09 Hundai?
Yeah, that COULD create a problem.
Coach has a right to be concerned.

Sure but not helpful as fodder for the press. Best to Just try and guide the kids in private.

 

[Bigboote]

The reporters must be reading the Boneyard. One question started with “We haven’t asked you about rotation in an hour. . .”

 

[oldhusky]

I don't know if others picked up on this, but I sensed a little anger or frustration when Geno said some kids are picking schools based on NIL opportunities now, and not necessarily because of basketball. He sounded like someone who might be bitter about losing a recruit for that reason, which has me wondering if that was a big factor in Kiki's decision.

Many of us were surprised at her decision, not so much that it wasn't us, but because it wasn't Stanford or Duke either. We didn't see UCLA at the top of the basketball options or the academic options, so why UCLA? Hollywood? NIL opportunities in a huge market? I don't know and it is pure speculation on my part, but I thought Geno sounded like someone who had already seen decisions based on NIL, not just someone who was speculating that it would.

 

[hoopsfan22]

Geno says Paige and Azzi "deserve it" with respect to NIL. Why do they deserve it? Definitely picked up on a little bitterness about NIL.

 

[Ozimoto]

We'll have to see how much of a problem NIL truly becomes. So far I haven't seen any "big money" deals...

 

[Plebe]

I don't know if others picked up on this, but I sensed a little anger or frustration when Geno said some kids are picking schools based on NIL opportunities now, and not necessarily because of basketball. He sounded like someone who might be bitter about losing a recruit for that reason, which has me wondering if that was a big factor in Kiki's decision.

Many of us were surprised at her decision, not so much that it wasn't us, but because it wasn't Stanford or Duke either. We didn't see UCLA at the top of the basketball options or the academic options, so why UCLA? Hollywood? NIL opportunities in a huge market? I don't know and it is pure speculation on my part, but I thought Geno sounded like someone who had already seen decisions based on NIL, not just someone who was speculating that it would.

NIL is going to have a range of unintended and unforeseen consequences, but it required no crystal ball to realize it would have a profound impact on recruiting. Schools and programs perceived to offer the best "platforms" for a player to build their "brand" (I'm trying not to cringe when I use these terms) will have a huge leg up.

Much like the transfer portal, it's a growing and irreversible part of the WCBB landscape, and all programs and coaches, UConn/Geno included, need to adapt.

 

[hoopsfan22]

I don't know if others picked up on this, but I sensed a little anger or frustration when Geno said some kids are picking schools based on NIL opportunities now, and not necessarily because of basketball. He sounded like someone who might be bitter about losing a recruit for that reason, which has me wondering if that was a big factor in Kiki's decision.

Many of us were surprised at her decision, not so much that it wasn't us, but because it wasn't Stanford or Duke either. We didn't see UCLA at the top of the basketball options or the academic options, so why UCLA? Hollywood? NIL opportunities in a huge market? I don't know and it is pure speculation on my part, but I thought Geno sounded like someone who had already seen decisions based on NIL, not just someone who was speculating that it would.

If it was a factor in Rice's decision she's about to find out what it's like to play in relative obscurity versus being on national TV every other week. There's a reason there's an east coast bias when it comes to sports (hint: it's where all the people live).

 

[huskeynut]

First - a very good and informative interview. Geno rarely disappoints.

As to NIL, I believe Geno expressed the concerns of a lot of coaches and fans. No one knows how this will shake out over the next few years, especially the NCAA. Are athletes going to choose a school based on NIL promises - yes. Are coaches going to use potential NIL agents/ sponsors as a recruitment tool - hell yes. Money talks to a lot of people. It's just another aspect to recruiting.

Do I think all this NIL stuff will bring the big money some have said - no.

Geno will adapt. He always has, but on his timeline. He is using the portal to fulfill the needs of the program. Dorka is the prime example.

 

[EdSaid]

"How can you not love Nika?"

 

[MD#12Fan]

But I wish he would not try to get into the subtleties and perceived hidden issues of the NIL stuff. The horse has left the barn.

I'm disappointed in your laissez faire attitude. This is a biggee. It has to be managed diligently. I believe student-athletes should be fairly compensated. Yes, the horse has left the barn, but it doesn't have to knock your house down. Yes, the boogie man is actually here, not just lurking in the shadows. It needs to be kept under control. Your 18 year old child can drive now. The situation still has to be managed. (analogy alert- oops too late for that)

 

[PacoSwede]

First - a very good and informative interview. Geno rarely disappoints.

As to NIL, ....
Geno will adapt. He always has, but on his timeline. ....

whoa! i wouldn't bet on that. at his age (and many BYers) he's just as likely to see it as the final straw and conclude 'ah, f-- it. i don't need this kind of crap' and go off to golf, family and a great life of leisure. in fact. i'd think that is the more likely result.

 

[FormerCTrez]

I don't know if others picked up on this, but I sensed a little anger or frustration when Geno said some kids are picking schools based on NIL opportunities now, and not necessarily because of basketball. He sounded like someone who might be bitter about losing a recruit for that reason, which has me wondering if that was a big factor in Kiki's decision.

Many of us were surprised at her decision, not so much that it wasn't us, but because it wasn't Stanford or Duke either. We didn't see UCLA at the top of the basketball options or the academic options, so why UCLA? Hollywood? NIL opportunities in a huge market? I don't know and it is pure speculation on my part, but I thought Geno sounded like someone who had already seen decisions based on NIL, not just someone who was speculating that it would.

Oldhuskie, after listening to him, I thought the same thing. But, at this time, I’m willing to move on. I’m rooting for UCONN to win every game, while wishing the best for Kiki and UCLA.

 

[Cuango]

Geno says Paige and Azzi "deserve it" with respect to NIL. Why do they deserve it? Definitely picked up on a little bitterness about NIL.

Maybe because they have worked so hard to reach this level without allowing the hoopla and adulation to turn them into narcissistic jerks? I think concern is probably closer than bitterness.

 

[hoopsfan22]

Maybe because they have worked so hard to reach this level without allowing the hoopla and adulation to turn them into narcissistic jerks? I think concern is probably closer than bitterness.

So the other players on the team don't work hard?

 

[Gus Mahler]

First of all, UCLA is a WORLD-CLASS university. It competes well with research universities across the world. As of a few years ago, more students applied for admission to UCLA than any other school in America. It is clearly one of the very finest public universities in America. So it may not be Stanford (most schools aren't), and it may not quite be Duke, but UCLA most certainly qualifies as high academics.

Second, there are upwards of 38 million people in California, a huge share of which reside in Southern California. But the "relative obscurity" is still a good point, because the competition for attention, media coverage, and being an "it" person will be huge.

I wish her well, and I hope she helps Coach Close get over the hump regarding national stature.

 

[MD#12Fan]

So the other players on the team don't work hard?

Very tricky topic! Should be a major thread I believe. (give poor Liv and Dorka a rest)
Geno IMO speaks in code. When he mentioned Azzi and Paige TWICE in his comments, I believe he was speaking to THEM. That he expects their behavior in all facets to remain as it is. Sort of reminding them of their responsibility IMO.

 

[jchusky]

I don't know if others picked up on this, but I sensed a little anger or frustration when Geno said some kids are picking schools based on NIL opportunities now, and not necessarily because of basketball. He sounded like someone who might be bitter about losing a recruit for that reason, which has me wondering if that was a big factor in Kiki's decision.

Many of us were surprised at her decision, not so much that it wasn't us, but because it wasn't Stanford or Duke either. We didn't see UCLA at the top of the basketball options or the academic options, so why UCLA? Hollywood? NIL opportunities in a huge market? I don't know and it is pure speculation on my part, but I thought Geno sounded like someone who had already seen decisions based on NIL, not just someone who was speculating that it would.

Very wise point, I mentioned a week ago that Storrs just can't compare to LA. Allthough Silicon Valley would not have been a bad choice either. Definitely could see Nil playing a role especially when you got these schools like Oregon with Nike who do everything from their sport teams.

 

[Gus Mahler]

First of all, UCLA is a WORLD-CLASS university. It competes well with research universities across the world. As of a few years ago, more students applied for admission to UCLA than any other school in America. It is clearly one of the very finest public universities in America. So it may not be Stanford (most schools aren't), and it may not quite be Duke, but UCLA most certainly qualifies as high academics.

Second, there are upwards of 38 million people in California, a huge share of which reside in Southern California. But the "relative obscurity" is still a good point, because the competition for attention, media coverage, and being an "it" person will be huge.

I wish her well, and I hope she helps Coach Close get over the hump regarding national stature.

Should have said: "I wish Kiki well." I had her name in there somewhere but cut it out and failed to replace.

 

[DEpup]

I don't know if others picked up on this, but I sensed a little anger or frustration when Geno said some kids are picking schools based on NIL opportunities now, and not necessarily because of basketball. He sounded like someone who might be bitter about losing a recruit for that reason, which has me wondering if that was a big factor in Kiki's decision.

Many of us were surprised at her decision, not so much that it wasn't us, but because it wasn't Stanford or Duke either. We didn't see UCLA at the top of the basketball options or the academic options, so why UCLA? Hollywood? NIL opportunities in a huge market? I don't know and it is pure speculation on my part, but I thought Geno sounded like someone who had already seen decisions based on NIL, not just someone who was speculating that it would.

I feel like Geno is fine with NIL as long as it doesn't impact his process.. I'm sure every coach feels that way.

 

[oldhusky]

The reporters must be reading the Boneyard. One question started with “We haven’t asked you about rotation in an hour. . .”

That was good!

 

[Vowelguy]

Please let’s not start a rumor, based on nothing, about Rice’s decision.

 

[AgStatesman]

If we are so concerned about the some of the girls feelings, let's do something about it. Let's incorporate The Boneyard, raise some money, and pay members of the team for their NIL. In this new climate, there is nothing wrong with that. How many active users on the BY? Charge a 1000 a year membership fee and voila! We have all our team members paid and happy.

 

[oldhusky]

Oldhuskie, after listening to him, I thought the same thing. But, at this time, I’m willing to move on. I’m rooting for UCONN to win every game, while wishing the best for Kiki and UCLA.

I'm moving on too. It just kinda surprised me because for the most part I think the NIL will be more of an advantage than disadvantage for Uconn, but time will tell. On the national level I think the high profile of Uconn basketball will be a plus regarding NIL deals, with the exception that for more local level deals, perhaps being in a major metropolitan area would be a plus.

Geno has suggested that for many programs just a couple of kids will get deals, but if the team is good enough and popular enough, I think it might include a few more. I am reminded of the Super Bowl Shuffle Chicago Bears. They had all the endorsement angles covered, a great team that captured the imagination of the nation, lots of very interesting characters and personalities, and of course in a major metropolitan area.

They probably had twenty players getting endorsement deals, even the field goal kicker! So it wouldn't shock me if we had a half dozen players getting some kind of deals beyond just Paige and Azzi.

 

[LarryLegend]

I don't know if others picked up on this, but I sensed a little anger or frustration when Geno said some kids are picking schools based on NIL opportunities now, and not necessarily because of basketball. He sounded like someone who might be bitter about losing a recruit for that reason, which has me wondering if that was a big factor in Kiki's decision.

Many of us were surprised at her decision, not so much that it wasn't us, but because it wasn't Stanford or Duke either. We didn't see UCLA at the top of the basketball options or the academic options, so why UCLA? Hollywood? NIL opportunities in a huge market? I don't know and it is pure speculation on my part, but I thought Geno sounded like someone who had already seen decisions based on NIL, not just someone who was speculating that it would.

i immediately thought the same thing

 

[Charliebball]

I don't know if others picked up on this, but I sensed a little anger or frustration when Geno said some kids are picking schools based on NIL opportunities now, and not necessarily because of basketball. He sounded like someone who might be bitter about losing a recruit for that reason, which has me wondering if that was a big factor in Kiki's decision.

Many of us were surprised at her decision, not so much that it wasn't us, but because it wasn't Stanford or Duke either. We didn't see UCLA at the top of the basketball options or the academic options, so why UCLA? Hollywood? NIL opportunities in a huge market? I don't know and it is pure speculation on my part, but I thought Geno sounded like someone who had already seen decisions based on NIL, not just someone who was speculating that it would.

UConn gets as much exposure as any team in women's college basketball..........if any school has an advantage with these new license opportunities it's Geno's team.......do you think South Carolina, Baylor, Louisville, Oregon, Maryland etc are in markets that would lend themselves to major media exposure? UCLA has had limited success in WBB and unless a player becomes a huge attraction there she's just another good player on a team with limited NC opportunities.....

 

[oldude]

I don't know if others picked up on this, but I sensed a little anger or frustration when Geno said some kids are picking schools based on NIL opportunities now, and not necessarily because of basketball. He sounded like someone who might be bitter about losing a recruit for that reason, which has me wondering if that was a big factor in Kiki's decision.

Many of us were surprised at her decision, not so much that it wasn't us, but because it wasn't Stanford or Duke either. We didn't see UCLA at the top of the basketball options or the academic options, so why UCLA? Hollywood? NIL opportunities in a huge market? I don't know and it is pure speculation on my part, but I thought Geno sounded like someone who had already seen decisions based on NIL, not just someone who was speculating that it would.

With all do respect, while UCLA may be close to Hollywood, WBB has nowhere near the same profile as it does at UConn. Rice is a smart young lady. I seriously doubt she chose UCLA because of her NIL opportunities.