This is a tough one.
On one hand, he is absolutely right. How much more fun would it be to watch if these women were flying down the lane and posterizing each other every night? It would indeed make the game a lot more exciting.
On the other hand, it goes against what women athletes have been fighting so hard for. They don't want to be seen as "female athletes," just athletes - and this move, in my opinion, could possibly take them a step back in that fight. Nancy Lieberman, who was called "Lady Magic" during her playing days, feels the same way: “Why lower the rim when we’re getting to the rim,” says Lieberman. “The history of the game says we’ll get there early and often. I know of 13- and 14-year old kids who are learning how to dunk now. Don’t go backwards.”
Most people don't even realize that in volleyball, the women's net is seven inches shorter than in it is in men's matches. In golf, women tee-off closer to the green. So the suggestion isn't completely out of this world, but I definitely don't see it happening.
Cody Brown
KIN 577
It is surprising to hear Geno Auriemma’s comment, especially in 2012, forty years after Title IX. It is not surprising however that the comment is coming from a male women’s basketball coach. I do not think this same comment would come from any female women’s basketball coach or player. Yes it is true that Women’s volleyball, golf, and even softball have differences between the corresponding men’s sport, but the game is different and that is how it has always been.
ReplyDeleteBy lowering the nets in women’s basketball it would be taking a step back, especially since it has been that way for so long. My grandmother who is now 84 years old played professional women’s basketball back in the day when they could only play half court and there was no dribbling. These women basketball players have come a long way to prove they can play the game of basketball just like the men. Although Coach Geno made his recommendation in good faith to help promote the sport, it is as Nancy Lieberman said taking a step backwards.
Aiyana W.
KIN 577