A Message from the NABC Executive Director Craig Robinson

A Message from NABC Executive Director Craig Robinson

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 even 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 than it is today . 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 just 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 decision-makers 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