NBA Players Stand Up For Themselves Against Taking The Covid Vaccine
Several high profile NBA players are catching major media attention after speaking out against taking the vaccine. Their decision could cost them millions, but they are standing tall on their beliefs.
Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac addressed the media September 27, about his personal beliefs on refusing the vaccine.
By: Omar Cook
As the world adjusts to new societal norms, and covid vaccine mandates across different work industries, we are seeing people rebel and risk their careers to stand up for what they believe in. The pandemic is something never before seen in our lifetime and everyone is doing what they feel is necessary to protect themselves. With a history of medical malpractice, lies, and injustice towards Black Americans in this country, it is not uncommon to see people reject the vaccine due to their fears of potential long term side effects.
The NBA has caught major attention after several high profile players have decided to speak out against taking the vaccine. The league currently cannot require players to be vaccinated after the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) rejected the NBA’s proposal for a mandate.
"A vaccine mandate for NBA players would need an agreement with the Players Association," league spokesperson Mike Bass said. "The NBA has made these proposals but the players' union has rejected any vaccination requirement."
Players such as Kyrie Irving, Bradley Beal, Andrew Wiggins, and Jonathan Isaac have been vocal about their beliefs to refuse the vaccine and are standing ten toes down on their decision despite heavy criticism from mainstream media and fans. At a September 27 press conference, Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac articulately stated his reasons for not taking the vaccine.
"I'm not anti-Vax. I'm not anti-medicine. I'm not anti-science," Issac said. "I have nothing but the utmost respect for every health care worker in person in Orlando, and all across the world that has worked tirelessly to keep us safe. My mom has worked in healthcare for a really long time. I thank God I'm grateful that I live in a society where vaccines are possible, and we can protect ourselves and have the means to protect ourselves for the first in the first place."
"I'm not ashamed to say that I'm uncomfortable with taking the vaccine at this time. I think that we're all different. We all come from different places, we've all had different experiences, and hold dear to different beliefs," he said. "What it is that you do with your body when it comes to putting medicine in there should be your choice, free of the ridicule and the opinion of others."
Golden State Warriors star Andrew Wiggins faces the possibility of losing more than $350,000 per game if he is unable to play home games due to San Francisco’s indoor vaccine mandate. It could result in him missing half of the season.
“Back is definitely against the wall, but I’m just going to keep fighting for what I believe,” Wiggins said at media day. “I’m going to keep fighting for what I believe is right. What’s right to one person isn’t right to the other and vice versa.”
His teammate Draymond Green showed support at a press conference stating:
"It's not my place or my business on whether he gets vaccinated or not — it's your own personal choice at the end of the day what you do with your body. It's not my place to tell him what he should or shouldn't do with his. Because he's not going to come tell me what I should do with my body."
Brooklyn Nets star Kyrie Irving was not able to attend the team's media day at Barclays Center on Monday due to New York City's COVID-19 protocols, and he repeatedly declined to address his vaccination status or what his plans were for it in the future. Kyrie has been heavily ridiculed in the media in the past few years for his personal thoughts and beliefs but he has always remained adamant about his thoughts.
Kyrie also faces the possibility of losing half of his expected $36.6 million as will not be able to play in home games in New York due to vaccine mandates.
This is only the beginning of what will be a media frenzy and the ultimate villainization of players who refuse to take the vaccine. The push and pull between being unvaccinated and vaccinated has become extremely political and the freedom of choice is rapidly being taken away, especially for those who would like to keep a job.
At the end of the day, every individual should have the right to choose what to put into their body, and every individual should be responsible for properly doing what is necessary to protect themselves, which includes working out, eating properly, and building up your natural immune system. We have become reliant on medical experts to come save the day with a magical vaccine instead of preaching daily health tips and living a healthier lifestyle. This country has a history of segregation and it is slowly moving from racial to medical segregation as media outlets further push the agenda to get vaccinated. Time will tell what is to come…stand tall on your beliefs.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Usain Bolt's Advice To Sha'Carri Richardson Benefits Every Athlete
Track superstar Usain Bolt gave some sound words of advice for U.S. champion, Sha’Carri Richardson that every athlete could benefit from, “train harder and to be focused.”
By: Omar Cook
Sha’Carri Richardson has been making headlines for quite some time now as she has emerged as track and fields’ biggest stars but it has not come without controversy. After being disqualified from the 2021 Olympics this summer, Richardson was forced to set her attention to her next race at the Prefontaine Classic.
Sha’Carri was very vocal about her previous performances leading up to this highly anticipated race with Jamaican sensations Elaine Thompson-Herah and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, as of course any elite athlete should feel confident about winning. Unfortunately, her cockiness was not taken well publicly after she placed last place in the 100m race taking 9th place in her first race back since her U.S. Olympic trials race.
In early September, Sha’Carri once again hit the track in the Diamond League this time taking 4th place in the 200m. Much improved from 9th place as she begins to find her groove once again.
Track superstar Usain Bolt gave some sound words of advice for the U.S. champion.
I would tell Sha’Carri to train harder and to be focused and not say too much … If you talk that big talk you have to back it up,” Bolt said. “So just train hard and focus on that and try to come back do it and then talk about it.”
Bolt mentioned that the Jamaican women had added incentive to beat Sha’Carri due to her public comments.
“Jamaicans were vexed because she was talking a lot of s**t before the actual race, it is just one of those things,” he said. “Jamaicans don’t like when people talk s**t about us because we are a very proud people. So if you talk about us we are gonna want you to back it up. It definitely gave those women the extra push [to win.]”
Bolt has delt with athletes that have been outwardly vocal in the past as he went head to head with Justin Gatlin in the 2016 Olympics.
“That was my thing with Justin Gatlin — because he’s the one that was always talking — so that gives me that energy like, ‘All right you think you’re gonna win let’s go!’ So it does give you that extra boost to wanna beat that person,” he said of Gatlin. Gatlin finished second to Bolt in the 2016 Olympics.
Sha’Carri Richardson is definitely one of track’s hottest stars as she currently has run the 6th fastest time in history in the 100m in 10.72 seconds, but Richardson will have to deal with being humbled for the time being. Like the old saying goes, if you talk the talk you gotta walk the walk. Richardson will definitely be back on top but at this moment, her talking needs to be done with results.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Power to the Player: How Athletes Are Taking Back Their Agency
From player empowerment, tough contract negotiations, social justice advocacy, ownership amongst athletes, and more, we're witnessing a shift in sports culture. We discuss it here!
By: Prince Hakeem
Since ancient Greco-Roman times, athletes have been some of the most admired members of society. From Koroibos in the first Olympic games in 776 B.C. to LeBron James playing at an elite level in 2021, athletes have long enamored spectators with their god-like abilities and accomplishments.
These physical feats have garnered them riches, influence, and celebrity status. As a result, the concept of the athlete has grown as well. They've gone from being human marvels to the driving force behind today's sports business. More than anything else, the modern athlete has become a symbol—a representation of teams, countries, communities, and traditions. However, what happens when the people who embody these symbols become forgotten and their autonomy diminished.
Ironically enough, the same platform which grants privilege, success, and visibility often becomes their prison—turning them into prisoners of lofty expectations and coerced groupthink. In an increasingly individualistic American society, the line between "team first" vs. the athlete's goals and overall health is becoming blurrier. There's always been this tightrope within sports, especially with social media bringing it more into focus.
From player empowerment, tough contract negotiations, social justice advocacy, ownership amongst athletes, and more, we're witnessing a shift in sports culture. It's no longer "shut up and play ." Better yet, athletes have more control of their narratives and destinies than ever before. They now realize that the sports business model cannot function without them. It's led to more advocacy for radical approaches to the game, compensation, mental health, and legacy. You do not have to look far to find examples of this change.
For starters, look at the developments surrounding tennis star Naomi Osaka. Known for her shy demeanor, Osaka garnered a lot of attention back in June when she announced that she would not participate in press events ahead of the French Open. The 23-year-old cited mental health struggles as her reasoning.
"I've often felt that people have no regard for athletes' mental health, and this rings very true whenever I see a press conference or partake in one," she wrote in a Notes post. "We're often sat there and asked questions that we've been asked multiple times before or asked questions that bring doubt into our minds, and I'm just not going to subject myself to people that doubt me."
Naomi Osaka pulled out of the French Open after refusing to attend press conferences. Osaka says she suffers from depression and experiences, "huge waves of anxiety before I speak to the world's media."
TPN/Getty Images
This, however, did not stop controversy within tennis and the media from arising. Osaka was labeled "selfish" and "entitled" by several media members and old-guard veterans of the sport. The French Open organization hit her with a $15,000 fine and threatened "further and greater consequences if she continued to decline her media obligations." In response, Naomi took matters into her own hands, withdrawing from the tournament altogether.
Instead of giving any further explanation, she advocated for her well-being. Osaka leveraged her power and pulled out of Wimbledon as well. On a bigger scale, the major tournament groups missed an incredible moment. The French Open could have used the opportunity to send a message of support and compassion. It certainly would garner positive publicity, positioning the sport as progressive. They instead opted to "flex" their muscles of tradition to prove a point. Now Naomi sits in a better light-publicly- all because she chose to do what's best for her, sending a message for others to do the same.
The ability to act with agency is more feasible for some athletes to do than others. Someone like Naomi would have an easier time doing this due to the individual nature of their sport. An athlete making personal decisions within team sports is challenging. None more so than in football.
Football is a cultural focal point within American society. The sport has served as the vehicle for racial and social integrations, celebrating the ideals of community and teamwork. It is one of the last and oldest institutions where subordinating one's individual goals for a collective objective is essential. Altruistic-yes-realistic, not so much. Today's football is more about commercial success rather than small-town virtues and values. And when it comes to business, everyone with a stake in the game moves accordingly- in their best interest.
This form of advocacy can be seen with today's NFL stars. There is a multitude of reasons which explain why. It all starts with the NBA's LeBron James. The kid from Akron changed the sports landscape with his infamous "Decision" to join the Miami Heat. Since then, the league has transformed into a player and star-driven commodity. Superteams are the norm, and players leverage their skills to have a say in front office decisions. This influence has crept its way into the NFL.
Despite not having fully guaranteed contracts, players are more empowered in today's game. Thanks to tougher agents, higher standard salaries, the players union, and a stronger CBA, NFL stars can disrupt the system in their favor. Quarterback Tom Brady is a clear example of this. Towards the end of 20 years with the New England Patriots, Brady wanted to help provide some personnel decisions. He wanted the team to surround him with better offensive talent. By the fifth Super Bowl ring, he had more than earned that luxury.
However, he was met with disrespect and even multiple attempts to move on from him. Brady, in the end, had enough of begging the Patriots and went to an organization that respected his word. He leveraged his winning experience for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to get every receiver he needed for a seventh Super Bowl ring.
Coming off an MVP season, Aaron Rodgers is fighting for his career and legacy. The 37-year-old quarterback is currently in a stalemate with the Green Bay Packers. After years of keeping the organization competitive, Rodgers has had enough of general manager Brian Gutekunst and the front office's dismissive attitude towards him. The tension has been brewing for a while, most notably since the Packers' decision to draft Utah State's Jordan Love in the first round of the 2020 draft. An MVP season including 4299 passing yards, 48 touchdowns, and back-to-back trips to the NFC Championship game is what Rodgers has as a bargaining chip. And even that could not garner Rodgers enough cache to have input in offensive personnel decisions. So now he is using his status as a player to send a message to his team. He has gone on record claiming that he loves his teammates, coaches, and the fanbase. It is not about money or wanting his ego stroked. For Rodgers, it is about legacy and respect for his contributions to the game.
Additionally, athletes are now the source, thanks to social media. They hold their own press conferences on Instagram, make career announcements on Twitter, and dictate negotiations with just a "Like" button. Times have changed, probably for the better. These instances demonstrate how a shift in agency and power is good for the individual athlete and necessary for sports as a whole. It sends a message that doing what's best for oneself should be the norm, not a spectacle.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
The Olympics’ Recent Rulings Reinforce The Historic Demonization Of Black Womanhood
Some of the recent rulings made by the Olympics, particularly against Black women, invoke double standards and reinforce the historic demonization of Black womanhood. We discuss it here!
Gwen Berry and Sha’Carri Richardson
By: Cory Utsey
The Tokyo Summer Olympics commence in a mere two weeks. Through the various Olympic Trials, spectators were able to witness the raw talent of a number of athletes across the world.
For Black women athletes especially, household names such as Simone Biles and Allyson Felix maintained their projected success, while newcomers such as Sha’Carri Richardson claimed the hearts of many. It seemed as though there would be many Black women that would dominate their respective sports.
But unfortunately, excelling within one’s sport is not good enough. Many Black women athletes have faced much scrutiny, at times complete disqualification, while the political and cultural agency of Black athletes as a whole has been limited. Black athletes are not allowed to wear regalia related to the Black Lives Matter movement, nor are any athletes permitted to express any form of political messaging, due to the International Olympic Committee’s Rule 50. And while the International Swimmer Federation (FINA) is currently in the process of reviewing the decision to disallow Black athletes from wearing swim caps made for Black natural hair, the rule’s initial existence is indicative of the way in which widely used standards are often centered around whiteness.
For many people, some of the recent rulings made by the Olympics, particularly against Black women, invoke double standards and reinforce the historic demonization of Black womanhood.
Sha’Carri Richardson Disqualified for Marijuana
Sha’Carri Richardson - Credit: Steph Chambers
Although marijuana is legal in many US cities, including Oregon--the city in which Sha’Carri Richardson consumed the substance--, she was placed on a 30-day suspension and left off of the USA Track and Field roster after testing positive for THC. In an interview with the Today Show, Richardson revealed that she was aware of the potential consequences from testing positive for marijuana, but still chose to ingest the substance. Reeling from the recent death of her mother, the drug almost served as a form of escapism from the pain she had been experiencing.
It is true that rules are rules, and it is also true that Richardson must take accountability for her actions; however, the validity of this rule remains widely questioned. Not only is marijuana legal in 19 states, but it is not a performance-enhancing drug and would therefore not increase her stamina or performance as a runner.
Richardson’s suspension is quite reminiscent of the way in which Black and Brown people are often met with demonization and legal punishment for their dealings with marijuana, while white people are able to open dispensaries. Where white people are labeled entrepreneurs, Black people are labeled offenders, and Richardson was given neither grace nor empathy in an emotionally-charged time of her life.
Christine Mboma, Beatrice Masilingi and Testosterone Testing
According to CNN, Namibian sprinters Christine Mboma and Beatrice Masilingi were banned from competing because of their naturally high testosterone levels. The Namibia National Olympic Committee and Commonwealth Games Association (NNOC-CGA) states that their testosterone levels exceed the limit placed by a World Athletics’ Policy on Differences of Sex Development (DSD).
In 2018, World Athletics ruled that women with higher testosterone levels must take medication that would reduce their levels in order to compete in certain events, as it would make competition “fairer”; however, neither of the athletes were aware of this rule prior to their competitions. Although Mboma and Masilingi will still be able to compete in the 100 meter and 200 meter events, other Black women athletes have been barred from competing as a result of this ruling. CeCe Telfer, a transgender woman, was disallowed from competing in the Olympic trials for the 400 meter event last month, and Caster Semenya has been banned from competing in any event (from 400 meters to one mile) since 2018.
Not only does the rule police the bodies of Black women, but it reaffirms transphobic notions on what it means to be a “real” woman. Women, including those who are transgender, should not be forced to take medications that alter their natural body production. Once again, it becomes clear that whiteness and white womanhood are centered as the standard by which all women should be aligned with, and when non-white women (inevitably) fall outside of these confines, they are punished.
Gwen Berry Condemned for Activism
Gwen Berry (left), DeAnna Price, and Brooke Andersen during the national anthem at Saturday’s U.S. Olympic trials
Photo: Patrick Smith/Getty Images
As stated previously, the International Olympic Committee’s Rule 50 states that athletes cannot sport politically-centered regalia, nor can they engage in any forms of political activism at the Tokyo Olympics. Gwen Berry, a hammer thrower, chose to turn her back on the flag while “The Star Spangled Banner” played at the Olympic trials and faced much criticism from American lawmakers.
Berry, who previously displayed her political outspokenness at the 2019 Pan American games, has not yet decided if she will observe Rule 50 in Tokyo. While the rule was likely enacted in order for the focus to remain on the sports alone, athletes should not have to compromise or abandon their political agency, as politics impact various sectors within one’s life.
Each of these rulings are presented as impartial to race and gender; however, the ramifications of these rulings undermine the nuances of Black women athletes, and ultimately reinforce the historic demonization of Black womanhood. With many potential spectators stating that they will not tune in if Black women continue to be scrutinized or barred from competing, there are hopes that Olympic committees will seek to review the rules and understand their historical implications.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Tokyo Olympics: 4 Black Women Who Are Chasing Gold Medals
The Tokyo Summer Olympics are set to officially commence on Friday, July 23 and there will be a number of Black athletes competing for the gold-- especially Black women. Here are four Black women expected to dominate the Summer Olympics!
Sha’Carri Richardson and Simone Biles look to dominate at the Tokyo Olympics
By: Cory Utsey
The once-postponed yet highly anticipated Tokyo Summer Olympics officially commence on Friday, July 23. This means that the Olympic trials are in full effect, and American athletes are competing to be a part of the anticipated 600 qualifiers being sent to Tokyo.
It is already clear that there will likely be a number of Black athletes competing for the gold-- especially Black women.
Here are four of the Black women athletes expected to dominate the Summer Olympics.
Sha’Carri Richardson - Track and Field
Sha'Carri Richardson celebrates after winning the first heat of the semifinals in the women's 100 meters at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials on Saturday in Eugene, Ore.
Associated Press photo by Ashley Landis
The 21-year-old Dallas native first came to prominence in 2019. A freshman at Louisiana State University at the time, she ran 10.75 seconds and broke the 100 meter record at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Championships, winning her the NCAA title.
Despite losing her mother just days before the U.S Olympic Track and Field trials, she secured her spot in Tokyo on Juneteenth by running 10.86 seconds for the women’s 100 meter event. Immediately running to embrace her grandmother following her success, the bright-haired beauty warmed the hearts of many.
Richardson continues to trend, not only for her immense success on the field, but for her confident candor off the field. Letting everyone know that she is “that girl”, many are excited to see her compete on Team USA Track and Field.
Simone Manuel - Swimming
Simone Manuel - Getty Images
At the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics, Manuel became the first Black woman to win an individual Olympic gold medal, and she will now be competing in the 50 meter freestyle.
The trailblazer revealed that she was recently diagnosed with overtraining syndrome (OTS), a form of burnout which causes fatigue and temporarily declines the performance of athletes despite intense training. Experiencing symptoms such as anxiety and sore muscles, she was forced to take a three-week hiatus from training.
Fortunately, none of these tribulations stopped her from securing her spot on Team USA Swimming.
Allyson Felix - Track and Field
Allyson Felix at the Olympic Trials
Credit: Ashley Landis/Associated Press
Felix has nine Olympic medals-- enough said.
After qualifying for the 400 meter event, she will compete in her 5th olympics. Felix is currently the most decorated Olympic runner in U.S. history.
This three-time World Champion is expected to make great strides, regardless of which event she competes in.
Simone Biles - Gymnastics
Simone Biles competing in the floor exercise during the 2021 Olympic Trials
Credit: Carmen Mandato/ Getty Images
The five-time Olympic medalist is set to compete once again at the Olympics.
Known as one of the most decorated gymnasts in the world-- third to be exact-- USA Today reports that she already secured the all-around title at the U.S Gymnastics Championships.
There is very little doubt that she will be anything less than extraordinary.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Naomi Osaka And Destigmatizing Mental Health Among Athletes
Naomi Osaka’s decision to withdraw from the French Open and be transparent about her struggles, brings about a much needed conversation about the prioritization of mental health over work! We discuss it here!
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 26, 2019: 2019 Australian Open Champion Naomi Osaka of Japan during press conference following her win in the final match at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park
Credit: Leonard Zhukovsky
By: Cory Utsey
Naomi Osaka became quite the household name after defeating former No. 1 women’s single tennis player Serena Williams in 2018. Since then, she has amassed much success as a four-time Grand Slam singles champion, and on Monday May 31, she announced that she would be withdrawing from the Roland Garros French Open.
Naomi Osaka withdraws from the French Open to focus on her mental health.
— 247 Live Culture (@247LC) May 31, 2021
Osaka was recently fined $15,000 for not speaking to the press.
“I am not a natural public speaker and get huge waves of anxiety before I speak to the world’s media.” pic.twitter.com/Jde8TwYjng
In a statement that was released on Twitter and Instagram, Osaka attributed her decision to withdraw to the prioritization of her mental health, as she has long dealt with periods of depression and anxiety.
The announcement of her withdrawal came days after a previous statement in which she announced that she would not be talking to any press during the French Open, citing the media’s general disregard for the mental health of athletes as her reasoning. She was fined $15,000 for her decision to do so.
Her decision has been praised by a number of people and companies, including Nike, Mastercard, Venus Williams and Serena Williams.
Osaka is no stranger to outspokenness or advocacy, as she often uses her platform to speak on police brutality and racial injustice. She has ultimately shown that athletes are still people whose mental health should be prioritized just as much, if not more than, their physical capabilities and contractual obligations.
This is extremely important in the fight to destigmatize mental health conditions among all people, and especially athletes.
The National Institute of Mental Health reports that approximately one in five adults living in the United States suffer from mental illness. Not only do these illnesses vary in severity, but they often have a direct impact on physical health, as they affect one’s ability and desire to engage in behaviors that are healthy.
Although various studies have shown that staying physically healthy and engaged can boost one’s mood and mental health, this does not make athletes exempt from dealing with mental health related issues.
Athletes For Health, a nonprofit dedicated to keeping athletes engaged with the community, states that 33 percent of college students, including student athletes, suffer from mental health related conditions. Of this group, 30 percent of college students seek help for their mental health, but among college athletes, the number of individuals who seek help only falls at 10 percent.
In regards to professional athletes, the number of people who deal with mental health crises such as burnout, anxiety or disordered eating falls at approximately 35 percent.
Professional athletes are susceptible to the everyday conditions that have the ability to adversely affect one’s mental health, along with the added pressure to perform well and maintain public image.
Osaka herself cites the stress and pressure of engaging with the media and saying the “right things” as one that takes a toll.
Her decision to be transparent about her struggles, along with the subsequent prioritization of mental health over work, is one that can certainly be considered admirable.
Mental health is something that all people must keep at the forefront of the decisions they make and the directions they go. Although many are sad to see Osaka’s brief hiatus from the court, her well-being is much more important than titles or accolades.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Athlete Spotlight: NFL Prospect Alim McNeill
Former North Carolina State defensive tackle, Alim McNeill, is one of the top rated lineman in this years upcoming NFL Draft. We spoke with this NFL hopeful in an exclusive interview, check it out here!
Athlete Spotlight: NFL Prospect Alim McNeill
By: Tialena Evans
This week’s athlete spotlight is NFL prospect, Alim McNeill! McNeill is one of top rated defensive tackles in this years upcoming NFL Draft and chose to forego his senior season to live out his dream of playing in the NFL. McNeill recently showed out at his NC State Pro Day, running a 4.94-second 40-yard dash, 30.5-inch vertical jump, nine-foot broad jump, and 27 bench press reps of 225 pounds. McNeill was born and raised in Raleigh, North Carolina which played a big role in him choosing to attend North Carolina State University. He wanted the opportunity to play in front of family friends in his city. McNeill was a 3 sport athlete growing up, playing basketball, baseball and football. He comes from a sports family with a younger brother who is committed to football at Oregon and an older sister who is a teacher now.
He is a big music fan, with music being one of his hobbies outside of sports. McNeill is still in college with a semester left and will be getting his degree in STS (Science, technology and society) and will be taking the technology route in which he wants to create his own music software. “It’s something I use as an escape to get things off my mind and I find it incredibly interesting. I spend most of my free time doing that” says McNeil.
“People should know and do know that I’m a loving and caring person, the nicest guy I can be to everyone each and every day. I am dedicated to my job of perfecting my craft and hard working. You will never see me not giving my all in anything that I do.”
We talked with Alim McNeill in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
How long have you been playing the game of football and how did you get started?
Alim McNeill: I’ve been playing since I was seven years old. My father introduced me to football. The first organization that I played for was the North Raleigh Bulldogs of Pop Warner.
Who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your football journey and who are some of the players or coaches you look up to that guided you along the way to where you are now as a player?
Alim McNeill: I would say my biggest influence is probably my dad just because he introduced me to the game. He played himself, and he taught me all of the things that I know now. As far as coaches, I’ve had a bunch of really good coaches throughout my life even when I first started playing ball; Coach Trevor was a good coach for me. I would probably say the most influential coach for me was Coach Gladden who is my coach in high school at Sanderson. He just kind of showed me the ropes of everything from playing next level football and just next level thinking on the field as far as football IQ. I still talk to him till this day for the most part. He’ll hit me up every now and then but he taught me everything pretty much that I use on the field today.
As far as players, there’s four guys that left before I got to NC State like Bradley Chubb, BJ, Jessie Jones, and Kentavius Street; I look up to those guys a lot just because of their pure mentality on and off the field. That’s what I want to emulate and which is why I committed to NC State for the most part. Also, guys like Fletcher Cox and Aaron Donald, so there’s a lot of different players I look up to that are influential to me. I try to take a piece of their game and add it to mine and emulate their mentality on and off the field.
What other college football offers did you have coming out of high school other than NC State University?
Alim McNeill: I had a lot, I think I finished out with 40, but my top three schools were Alabama, Clemson, and NC State. I also had schools like Penn State, Michigan, South Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, and all the ACC schools like Louisville, Syracuse, UNC, and others. But for me, I didn’t really want the glam in the glitz of certain programs really it just wasn’t for me. I didn’t really feel like I fit in at those types of programs.
What do you feel is your most proudest football career play or moment?
Alim McNeill: It was a playoff game during my junior year in highschool against Southview out of Fayetteville and we had scrimmaged them earlier in the year and they were doing a lot of trash talking. We ended up having a chance to play them in an actual game and they had brought out this big banner and I forgot what it said but it was something disrespectful and we just really didn’t like that. We ended up putting 40 points up on them and they only scored like one touchdown. That was probably one of my favorite games that we played in high school.
What motivates you and how do you define success?
Alim McNeill: I motivate myself because I know what I want to do and ultimately I’m the one who has to go put in the work. So every day when I get up my motivation is really just me and just working on myself, working on my craft every day and being the best person I can be every day. Every day that I’m going to work out I treat it like it’s work and I treat it like a business.
For me when I start to see the things that I work on start applying to the field and start working for me that’s what I deem successful for me. Whether it’s strength, the time in the weight room, time out on the field, my football IQ, watching film, taking notes, studying other players and stuff like that. I feel like that’s what success is to me, when you start applying things to the field that you’ve worked on for months during the off season.
How do you describe your style of play and what separates you from other players in your position?
Alim McNeill: My style of play I would say is aggressive but smart. I really take pride in learning the game and increasing my IQ of the game. There’s so many different ways to be able to play this game and that’s why I really like learning about all of the different ways and it just gives me advantage over my opponent. I would also say that I am passionate and give a lot of effort out on the field and I give my all to the game.
What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Alim McNeill: Being in a pandemic, you have to sacrifice the partying, and going out stuff like that. I really have to be smart about my choices because I don’t want to get sick and sit out for two weeks. If I can’t work out it’s not beneficial to me. I’ve also had to change who I hung out with because I know where I’m trying to get to and sometimes those people are beneficial to my success. Also, I sacrifice a lot of time, like not being able to go home for holidays and there’s no summers so there’s not much that you can do.
What aspect of the draft process excites you the most?
Alim McNeill: What excites me the most is just having the opportunity to be in that position. I’m just grateful for the opportunity to have a Pro Day and be a part of the draft. Last year when COVID-19 hit, those players didn’t get a Pro Day so a lot of guys didn’t get the opportunity to showcase themselves for scouts and GM’s.
Where do you see yourself and your football career in 10 years? What are some accomplishments and accolades do you hope to achieve
Alim McNeill: 10 years from now I see myself as a veteran player, a guy who’s one of the premier players of the league, who lets the league know what type of player he is and shown dominance on the field. I want to be no more than anything though as a guy who can be respected, trusted, reliable guy, nice guy and a real cool dude. As far as accolades, I’m not really big into the amount of sacks or the amount out of tackles or the awards. I just really want to win Super Bowls and ball games.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
March Madness: The NCAA is Under Fire Following Women’s Tournament Disparities
The NCAA is under fire for lack of financial support for Women's basketball during March Madness compared to their male counterparts. Women athletes deserve the same treatment as men. We discuss it here!
Jan. 16, 2020 The University of Oregon’s Kelly Graves, Minyon Moore, Ruthy Heard and Sedona Prince rejoice after a victory over Stanford University in Eugene, Oregon.
Andy Nelson/The Register-Guard/TNS
By: Tialena Evans
Every year basketball fans from all around the nation look forward to the madness that is the NCAA Tournament, but this time around March Madness made a name for itself…. literally.
Both the men’s and women’s NCAA tournaments are currently in progress, but in two separate parts of the country. The men’s tournament being held in Indianapolis, Indiana and the women’s in San Antonio, Texas.
But that isn’t the only disparity between the two. The NCAA is now under fire after a women’s basketball player, Sedona Prince for the Oregon Ducks shared a TikTok video on Twitter showcasing the vast differences between the men’s and women’s facilities.
The women’s teams were given a single rack of dumbbells as a part of their “weight room”, which was placed on the same court as their practice gym.
Meanwhile, the men’s weight room was shown to be an actual room on its own, equipped with ample space and equipment for players to train.
Let me put it on Twitter too cause this needs the attention pic.twitter.com/t0DWKL2YHR
— Sedona Prince (@sedonaprince_) March 19, 2021
“Let me put it on Twitter too cause this needs the attention,” she wrote — hoping the transparency between the two facilities would invoke a response from the public and action by the NCAA.
And if you think that was bad, it doesn’t stop there.
It was also shown that the gender disparities stretch from the foods that they eat to the quantity of gifted NCAA paraphernalia to even the quality of COVID-19 tests given to players.
It doesn’t stop at the weight room.....this is pathetic pic.twitter.com/U4VB3AcB3J
— 𝘽𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙞 💛⁴¹ (@SerbianHooker) March 19, 2021
More disparities in the NCAA bubble: the women are getting less accurate COVID antigen tests while the men are getting PCR tests, known as the "gold standard."
— Molly Hensley-Clancy (@mollyhc) March 19, 2021
I've put out two requests for comment to the NCAA but haven't heard back. https://t.co/IASVSkKQoG
You don’t have to be a fan of college basketball or even basketball period to realize that something is wrong here.
Social media blew up over what they saw and even NBA players expressed their outrage and discontent with how the NCAA has handled how the women’s tournament is treated.
Pretty clear the NCAA never expected to be caught. This isn’t about money or revenue. They have more than enough to provide adequate equipment. They just didn’t feel that women athletes were worth the effort. https://t.co/Q50PRor743
— Jemele Hill (@jemelehill) March 19, 2021
Seeing more and more come out in the differences of men's tournament vs women's tournament is so so so infuriating. WHAT IS WRONG W YOU NCAA ADMIT FAULT (all of it) AND BE BETTER. Be much better.
— Alex Morgan (@alexmorgan13) March 19, 2021
Wtf is going on @NCAA!!!?! ridiculous!!!! These young women are making a equal sacrifice, working thisr ass off, to be treated like this is a disgrace. Get your shit together before the next round!! Treat our women RIGHT!!
— Baron Davis (@BaronDavis) March 20, 2021
South Carolina’s women’s basketball head decided to chime in on the issue.
The situation moved so many people that even big name brands have decided to step up and help out where they could.
Companies such as Tonal and Dick’s Sporting Goods reached out and donated fitness equipment for the women’s tournament teams within a day.
@NCAA Our teammates have worked quickly to get truckloads of fitness equipment ready to send to the women’s @ncaawbb @marchmadness bubble – we are standing by to deliver it and have your facility outfitted within hours! Let’s make this happen. pic.twitter.com/6QJJjrrDgx
— DICK'S Sporting Goods (@DICKS) March 19, 2021
. @sedonaprince_ This is ridiculous. Let’s one up them. We’re sending 10 Tonal Smart Gyms that will arrive in San Antonio tomorrow for all of the players. Please DM us for next steps.
— Tonal (@tonal) March 19, 2021
Good luck to all of the @marchmadness teams! https://t.co/3JqLO4SQ1t
So far the NCAA has put out a statement apologizing for the disparities between the men’s and women’s facilities and claims “ [they] have intentionally organized basketball under one umbrella [at the NCAA] to ensure consistency and collaboration.”
NCAA leaders address weight room, other amenities in San Antonio: https://t.co/XJrm0njBx4 pic.twitter.com/uvqcQdDALi
— NCAA (@NCAA) March 19, 2021
In response to the extensive negative outrage, the NCAA has also made upgrades to provide the women’s with an actual weight room facility with plentiful equipment to train.
Ready for workouts!@espn’s Holly Rowe (@sportsiren) walks through the on-going updates to the pre-practice strength area and new first/second round weight room at the @ncaawbb Tournament: pic.twitter.com/uOwztcsqVy
— NCAA (@NCAA) March 20, 2021
While the quick response of the NCAA is nice, it shouldn’t have ever had to get to this point. Sexism and gender equality is such a huge issue in the world and you would think the NCAA, being such a big platform that it is, would try harder to make sure that this wouldn’t be an issue to address.
Many people justify these disparities by pointing out that men’s basketball brings in more income than women’s, but if the NCAA is funding the tournament, then both parties should receive equal treatment.
The NCAA tournament is a package deal, men’s and women’s, regardless of who fans want to spend their day watching.
Hopefully this issue promotes a greater effort in the equal treatment of women’s sports, because they are just as hard working and deserving as their male counterparts.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
NBA Players and Fans React to 2021 All-Star Selection “Snubs”
With the NBA All-Star rosters formally announced, we discuss some of the biggest snubs for this year’s All-Star game!
Devin Booker - Joe Camporeale/USA TODAY Sports
By: Tialena Evans
This year’s NBA season is nothing short of thrilling plays and down to the wire games. The way these stars have been putting on a show for fans at home just goes to show the true passion they have for the game.
In just the first half of the regular season, there have been 24 games pushed to overtime with an average team score of 112 points. This is the highest point average in the league since the 1970-71 regular season.
While fans can’t be heard from the arena stands, their voices are still being heard loud and clear. The 2021 NBA All-Star roster was announced earlier this week and fans from all over took to social media to express who they believe deserved a sport on the All-Star roster.
Devin Booker and Trae Young are undoubtedly the biggest All-Star snubs.
— Ryley (@PrimetimeRyley) February 24, 2021
Trae: 27 PPG | 4 RPG | 9.5 APG
D-Book: 25 PPG | 4 RPG | 4 APG
Straight up disrespectful. pic.twitter.com/AApAoWr5xw
Even coaches shared their views on the snubs of this year’s selection.
Pop on DeRozan's All-Star snub: "I was disappointed he didn’t make it. I feel badly for him. He deserved to be on the All-Star team, in my opinion. He’s helped us win, put us in good position, he’s scored, he’s distributed the basketball, his leadership has been amazing."
— Tom Orsborn (@tom_orsborn) February 24, 2021
Let’s face it. Snubs happen, every year in fact. While there are only 12 spots for each conference to showcase the league's best, there just so happens to be more than 24 game-impacting players.
But when you think about whether a player has been “snubbed” from selection, it’s only fair to ask, “who would this player replace in the roster?”. Once you think about it, it’s a lot harder to rearrange the selections.
All 24 All-Star selections are well deserving and you could even argue swapping a starter for a reserve. A possibility in my book would be moving up James Harden to steal Kyrie Irving’s starting position, or even switching out Luka Doncic’s start for Damian Lillard.
With all the different possibilities once could have for the selections roster, one of the biggest snubs that stuck out like a sore thumb was the absence of Devin Booker. Before it was announced that he would be replacing the Injured Anthony Davis in the reserves, Booker was originally left off the All-Star roster which had fans, and even players, questioning the decision.
JR is extremely upset at Devin Booker’s All Star snub. #Thisisshitassman pic.twitter.com/KjFB1R6lAr
— sreekar (@sreekyshooter) February 24, 2021
Devin Booker is the most disrespected player in our league!!! Simple as that.
— LeBron James (@KingJames) February 24, 2021
Book not an all star? 🤣🤣🤣🤣 the foolery..... Stop it!!!!!!!!!!
— Draymond Green (@Money23Green) February 24, 2021
Don’t get mad Devin Booker, get EVEN!! Make a hit list, put all the West Coaches and their teams on it! And if I’m @CP3, take on the role of Drew “Bundini” Brown, be in his ear before every game saying “I bet he didn’t vote for you either”. Fireworks are coming, I’m popcorn ready
— Reggie Miller (@ReggieMillerTNT) February 24, 2021
How the Hell is @DevinBook not an ALL STAR?!!!!
— Jared Dudley (@JaredDudley619) February 24, 2021
Come on bruh!!!!! Stop with the politics!!! We all see it!!!!
Devin Booker should have been an NBA All-Star pic.twitter.com/sRut9kL1FG
— Hoops (@HoopMixOnly) February 23, 2021
Devin Booker should not need an injury replacement to get in as a reserve. For 3-4 years he heard "the Suns don't win enough." They're winning now. He's still producing like an All-Star. Stop moving the finish line.
— Matt Petersen (@TheMattPetersen) February 19, 2021
Devin Booker isn’t just an NBA All-Star, he’s one of the best players on the planet.
— Ball Don't Stop (@balldontstop) February 23, 2021
Supremely skilled, takes games over and gets better every year. Snubs happen, especially in todays talented league, but he shouldn’t be a snub. He’s the upper echelon of talent.
📸 @YazooMotif pic.twitter.com/2Iv1pFiUsB
Coincidentally, Booker has received both of his All-Star selections as an injury replacement—pretty demoralizing. He's averaging 25 points, 4.3 assists, 3.6 rebounds and shooting a career-high 50.3% from the field.
Alongside his fellow All-Star teammate Chris Paul, they have led the Phoenix Suns to a 20-10 record, which is the fourth best in the NBA. Booker is averaging almost 10 more points per game, yet Paul was able to steal the Phoenix reserve spot.
Very interesting.
Other notable player snubs include Trae Young, Domantas Sabonis, Mike Conley Jr., Brandon Ingram, and the list goes on. Trae Young would be among the top snubs, averaging 27.2 points, eighth in the league, and almost 10 assists per game, third overall in the NBA.
The 2021 NBA All-Star game will be held on Sunday, March 7th at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. On-court action will begin at 6:30 p.m. ET on TNT.
It'll be exciting to watch replacement Devin Booker prove to voters, once again, what the All-Star in himself is capable of. Maybe next year he’ll find himself a part of the original roster for once.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Young Athlete at Cam Newton’s Football Camp Learns a Lesson in Deference
Cam Newton, an NFL Quarterback, 3x Pro Bowler, NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, former MVP, went tit for tat with a young athlete who attended his camp this past weekend. A lesson in deference and respect.
Cam Newton During a Game with the New England Patriots
By: Baigen Seawell
Cam Newton, an NFL Quarterback, 3x Pro Bowler, NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, former MVP, went tit for tat with a young athlete who attended his camp this past weekend.
The young high schooler who was eventually identified as Jseth Owens from Perkiomen High School in Pennsylvania, hurled a slew of insults at the seasoned vet, again at his camp.
Kid was really saying this at CAM NEWTON’S own camp 😳 (h/t thesportsuniverse/TikTok) pic.twitter.com/YjQjc53tNZ
— Overtime (@overtime) February 21, 2021
“You about to be a free agent,” says Owens in one part of the clip.
“I’m Rich.” Responds Newton.
“You About to be poor,” says Owens.
While it’s cringeworthy to say the least with this exchange of words between the two, the young athlete got what he wanted: attention. It was picked up by almost every media outlet before the sun set on Sunday.
The conversation was exaggerated by said outlets, calling it a “Heated exchange,” or an “argument,” which it could barely be that due to Cam looking to actually talk to the kid’s father (someone who’s actually in his age range) over the kid himself.
Any young athlete watching this video please don’t be this kid, Don’t miss your chance to learn something from someone who has been their at the highest level in this sport.... STAY HUMBLE https://t.co/BCmGPK8w1W
— 7⃣ Leonard Fournette (@_fournette) February 21, 2021
You disrespected Cam Newton at his camp... the kid closed alot of doors and he don't even know it.
— Cameron Rolle (@CRolleLB52) February 21, 2021
What is Deference:
def·er·ence
/ˈdef(ə)rəns/
noun
noun: deference
1. humble submission and respect.
This kid had none of that. Trolling or not.
Newton holds a 7v7 camp and sponsors numerous high school teams around the country to improve their talents throughout the offseason. This is an opportunity for many kids to get better, network and get to meet a successful pro athlete in real time while doing it.
The submission should stem from the fact that one is in the position and presence to get to a place where they are seeking to get to: in this case it’s professional football, maybe even going D1.
There are over 100 D1 programs in the United States, and each have a limited number of scholarships to give. There are over one and a half million high school athletes in the country… if you were to do some quick math, less than 1% make it to this point.
A fraction of the 1% of those who become D1 athletes make it to the pros.
Where the respect comes in is from the fact that you are again in the presence of someone who made it to that point. Newton did not have it easy, as he jumped from D1 to Junior College and back to D1, had a few scandals on the way… and still made it.
But nonetheless, poor Jseth decided deference, respect, whatever you want to call it, was not necessary, despite the position he was placed in. Jseth issued out an apology via social media.
@CameronNewton @barstoolsports @overtime @espn pic.twitter.com/eBTg1tnnzI
— jseth owens (@jsethowens_5) February 22, 2021
But luckily, this closed out with a (kind of) happy ending between the two. Newton pulls Owens aside to discuss Owens’ play, his season and record, along with his stats. Owens was radio silent, but here’s to hoping that his outlook changes sooner than later.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Naomi Osaka Is The Star Of The Future After Defeating Legendary Serena Williams Back To Back
There’s nothing better than a blockbuster matchup between two well renowned athletes. Naomi Osaka’s dominant performance over the legend, that is Serena Williams, proves she is ready to carry the torch as the next Tennis great.
Naomi Osaka defeats Serena Williams in the Australian Open Semifinals
By: Tialena Evans
There’s nothing better than a blockbuster matchup between two well renowned athletes. The legend, that is Serena Williams, faced off against another well respected powerhouse, Naomi Osaka, in Wednesday’s Australian Open Semifinals. While this was a highly anticipated match and thought to be a tight three-set battle till the very end, it didn’t quite live up to the hype. Osaka dominated with an overpowering 6-3, 6-4 victory over Williams, thus propelling her to the final.
Serena Williams is undoubtedly one of the greatest, if not the greatest, female athletes to ever grace this earth. She’s even in the conversation of being the greatest athlete that ever was, regarding her 23 Grand Slam Titles and her dominance on the court since a young age.
Although fans would love to watch her play forever, it’s notable to mention that her age has definitely shown in her play lately and new talent like Osaka just has the youth and growing hunger to become the next great.
The two stars first met at the 2018 US Open, their only other Grand Slam matchup, which Osaka also won in straight sets in an upset over Williams. With back to back losses to Osaka, it’s evident that Williams' pedestal is slowly being overtaken.
Naomi Osaka beat Serena Williams to make the Australian Open final © William West, AFP
It must be a weird feeling for Williams to battle the manifestation of her influence. Osaka has shared that she grew up watching the Williams sisters and looked up to Serena’s dominance and work ethic.
“Just to be on the court playing against her, for me, is a dream,” Osaka said.
She doesn’t even want to think about the end of Williams’s career.
“It’s kind of sad when you say it like that because, for me, I want her to play forever,” she told reporters. “That’s a little kid and me.
After Wednesday’s loss, Williams showed her appreciation to the small crowd, twirling around to acknowledge everyone in the stands, holding her hand to her heart, taking in every feeling at once.
During a news conference, when asked if the gestures were in reference to a goodbye, she didn’t quite know what to say. “ I don’t know— if I ever say farewell, I wouldn’t tell anyone, so …” She later becomes too choked up to continue the conference, wiping tears from her face, and exiting the podium.
While Osaka has only won three grand slam titles and has a ways to go in catching William’s legacy, she has an abundance of years ahead of her at only 23 years old. Osaka is undoubtedly cut from the same regal cloth as Williams, and it will be amazing to see what the future holds for her career.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
High School Elite: 5 Must Know Basketball Prospects from the 2023 Rising Junior Class
The high school basketball class of 2023 is arguably one of the most exciting recruiting classes of this era! We take a look at 5 prospects you need to know!
Bronny James at Sierra Canyon High School
By: Baigen Seawell
As basketball season comes to a close for high school, it’s fitting to revisit the scouting report as it applies to arguably one of the most exciting recruiting classes of this era: The Class of 2023.
This class features the likes of Bronny James, Mikey Williams and more. The level of skill and talent seen in this particular prospect group makes me excited for the future of basketball at the collegiate level. And while it may be too early to predict where some of these prospects may land, it’s never too early to review their style of play and existing offers to see how they fare for the future.
1. Mikey Williams (Lake Norman Christian, San Diego CA)
Williams is one of the most well known and highly publicized athletes in the class of 2023. A 6’2” combo guard who hails from San Diego, Williams landed in North Carolina where he’s flourishing with Lake Norman Christian. Williams is quick, agile and is known to get above the rim and put on a show with his dunks and crafty layups.
Outside of his vertical, he’s not afraid to shoot around the field. As a combo guard, he’s been seen to take the opportunity in the field when the opportunity presents itself. He has received offers from numerous HBCUs such as Hampton, Howard, and Alabama State, along with offers from Arizona, UCLA and more.
2. DJ Wagner (Camden HS, Camden NJ)
Wagner is one of the unanimous prospects amongst recruiting sites with a number one ranking. A 5-star athlete, the 6’3” recruit, Wagner gave up football to pursue basketball in high school. The point guard is a righty, but is seen to handle the ball comfortably with his left. Wagner is also a quick release shooter around the field.
To add, this is a family affair as DJ’s father is Dajuan Wagner, who was a first round pick for the Cavs in 2002. His grandfather is Milt Wagner, who played for Louisville and at the professional level as well. They all attended Camden, where DJ is currently playing for, and he looks to keep the legacy going. He has eyes on him from Kentucky and Penn State.
3. Bronny James (Sierra Canyon HS, Cleveland OH)
Another NBA legacy, Bronny James is no surprise for anyone when you bring up the Class of 2023. James sits at 6’2” playing at the combo guard position, where his style of play is reminiscent of his father. Despite all of the love everywhere else, he hasn’t been generating a lot of love on the recruiting sites.
As of 2/15, James sits at 25 on the ESPN Top 25 and 19 on 247Sports. This doesn’t deter the attention he’s been receiving from schools like UNC, Duke, UCLA and a slew of other powerhouse programs. He still has a few more years to make a dent in the high school realm, and his signing will arguably be one of the most highly regarded, regardless of the school he chooses.
4. Baye Fall (Lutheran HS, Denver CO)
Fall is one to watch for, as he comes into the recruiting class as a 6’11” center. Fall traveled from Senegal to pursue basketball and has quickly moved up the ranks residing in the number 6 spot (ESPN). He’s been compared to Marcus Camby, but scouts don’t want to pin his style to a player so early in his career.
Fall is not as refined in skill as other prospects on his list, but he’s in good standing for the long run. His size will be a great asset for any team, and he’ll bulk up as he progresses through his basketball career. He’s received offers from Georgia, Georgetown, Minnesota and Kansas and has eyes from plenty of programs across the country.
5. Isaiah Collier (Wheeler HS, Marietta GA)
Collier is a hidden gem in the Class of ‘23. He quietly sits at 15 on the ESPN Top 25 and 15 on 247Sports. He’s a true point guard who’s able to scan the floor and play unselfishly when handling the ball. He shows great chemistry with his teammates as he comes off of a 2020 State Championship his freshman year with Wheeler.
Wheeler is also no stranger to creating NBA prospects, their most recent being Jaylen Brown of the Celtics. While Collier has a few years left to make a decision, he’s racked up offers from Florida, Ole Miss and Texas Tech. As he progresses, I trust that his price will go up and his demand will be highly regarded amongst D1 institutions.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
No Spring Football: North Carolina A&T Leaves the MEAC on a Disappointing Note
North Carolina A&T athletics left the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference in 2020 to join the Big South after 3 consecutive conference titles. Unfortunately, the MEAC has canceled spring football, destroying NC A&T’s final chance to go for a 4 peat. We discuss it here!
NC A&T defensive end Darryl Johnson (left) celebrates with a teammate after winning the 2018 Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl.
By: Tialena Evans
Exactly a year ago it was announced that North Carolina A&T would be ditching the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and heading over to the Big South, officially becoming a member July 1st of this year. The 2020-21 season would be the last year the Aggies would make a run for fourth consecutive conference title and a fifth consecutive consecutive appearance at the Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl, trying for a four-peat championship.
The Aggies had the stage set to cap off their MEAC journey on a historic note, but in 2020 fashion that did not go as planned— go figure.
The news of the conference switch broke in early February 2020 before the COVID-19 virus made it to the states. With the progression of positive cases and the cancellation of college and professional sports nationwide, there was uncertainty how that would affect fall sports, such as football. Many sports fans hoped that the virus would be contained by the end of the year, but as the year progressed and cases continued to rise, that made the decision much more difficult for programs to decide on whether or not there would be a 2020-21 season.
When the NFL announced that there would be a football season, that gave hope to many college football fans that NCAA programs would follow in their steps. While this was the case for most FBS and some FCS conferences, there were still quite a few that opted to play in the Spring due to COVID-19 concerns— the MEAC was among that group.
Downhill From Here
For many reasons, the MEAC’s decision to forgo a Fall season definitely put a stinger in the Aggies’ football season. Opting to play in the Spring meant there would be no chance of battling one last time in the Air Force Reserve Celebration bowl. The chances of there even being a Celebration Bowl were slim to none, but the schedule change dropped those chances to a hard zero.
The bad news doesn’t stop there. The conference announced that six out of their nine schools opted out of the season, which was scheduled to start on Feb. 20. That only left N.C. A&T, Delaware State, Howard and South Carolina State, who all expressed intent to have a season that would align with CDC guidelines.
Although these schools were willing to take the necessary measures to give the fans and the players a chance to have a 2020-21 season, it just wasn’t enough to move forward.
“While it is tremendously disappointing to suspend the spring 2021 football season, it is the right decision with regard to the health and well-being of our student athletes, coaches, staff and fans“ said the MEAC Commissioner, Dennis E. Thomas. “ As I have stated since the beginning of the pandemic, health and safety will continue to be at the forefront of every decision. We support those institutions who continue to play.“
The MEAC’s decision to cancel the Spring season was the straw that broke the camel's back. N.C. A&T was shell shocked at the disappointing news.
Athletic Director Earl Hilton and head Coach Sam Washington spoke with WXII 12 News.
"We pictured this year going very differently as you can imagine," said Earl Hilton. "We hoped to travel to all of our sister schools, be on their campuses, participate across a wide range of sports, celebrate, commiserate, say goodbye, win a few championships...yeah we saw this going differently."
Head Coach Sam Washington added, "For us not to have the opportunity to finish what we started, it hurts."
Where the Aggies Go From Here
Although a disappointing end to the season that never was, the Aggies continue to push forward and gear up for their first season as a Big South competitor. Head coach Sam Washington discussed with WXII 12 News their next move as a team:
“Get back into the weight room, get bigger, stronger, faster—we have a new strength and conditioning coach, I think this also will allow us the time to get to know him on a personal level.”
Both the athletic director and head coach say they are staying positive about playing in the Big South Conference this upcoming fall, even after this heartbreaking setback.
"We've turned the corner," Hilton said. "I can see some daylight. It's gonna be wonderful."
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
That One Time: Lisa Leslie Scored 101 Points in a High School Game
Lisa Leslie once scored 101 points in 16 minutes in a high school game! We discuss the impact of the game and why she fell just short of Cheryl Miller’s 105 point record!
Lisa Leslie at Morningside High School
By: Baigen Seawell
Everyone remembers the 100-point game that the late great Wilt Chamberlain had. To this day, there’s a few people who believe that this may or may not be true, just because stat keeping wasn’t as thorough as they are in the present day.
For the majority of us though, we agree that this happened and it nearly happened again with Kobe’s 81-point game in 2006. It definitely can happen with the nature of basketball ever changing and evolving into a perimeter style game. Within the past 20 years, we’ve seen shots begin to move outwards, and Steph Curry can arguably be the catalyst for this.
Needless to say, we’ve become enamored with how the game has morphed in regards to scoring.
But let’s talk about this stat-line for a second.
31 years ago (Feb 7, 1990), Lisa Leslie scored 101 points in 16 minutes.
101 points.
In 16 minutes.
The Morningside High School center took on South Torrance, where in 16 minutes, she tallied up 101 points. She shot 37 of 56 from the floor and 27 of 35 from the line. South Torrance held on throughout the half, but not for long as Leslie would score 49 points in the first quarter.
Lisa Leslie at Morningside High School
That’s around six points a minute, and I’m doubtful that transition plays were the result of this since South Torrance had every girl on Leslie to prevent her from scoring. This didn’t do much to faze her since she scored another 52 points in the second quarter.
As if the first near 50 points wasn’t enough to call it quits!
What makes this story even more outrageous is the fact that this was not the highest scoring record at that time. That feat actually belonged to Cheryl Miller, who scored 105 points in 1982. Though it seemed as if Leslie was well on her way to break the record, this feat would not become attainable for her. Entering the second half, South Torrance decided to pack it up and leave.
Leslie told the LA Times: “I was kind of heartbroken that I didn’t break the record,” Leslie said. “I asked the (South Torrance) coach before they left the court if they would let me score three more baskets, and then he asked his team, and they said ‘No.’ ”
Gil Ramirez, the South Torrance Coach, faced scrutiny for this gesture, even though their team was quite literally being embarrassed from the first tip. Some called it poor sportsmanship for Leslie’s high school coach to allow this to go on for so long, his response was he would let his players shine at least once a season, especially seniors.
Miller’s rebuttal explained it best though, and maybe it was a bit past its time when she said it:
“I know their (South Torrance) coach will holler about poor sportsmanship, but the game is to score points [...] It is a shame that she did not get a chance to break the record.”
Leslie was unable to break Miller’s record to her dismay. But it wouldn’t stand unbroken for long. 16 years later Epiphanny Prince from Manhattan, NY would envelope that record with 113 points.