The View From Here: Women’s Tourney/Class Act

By Ken De Laat

The Women’s NCAA Basketball Tournament was absolutely epic. A series of tight games that showcased a bevy of uber-talented players with strong supporting casts. The rematch of Iowa LSU was another classic and gave rise to Clark/Reese being tossed around in comparison to Johnson/Bird, two players who brought their collegiate rivalry to the NBA and revitalized interest in the league.

Admittedly late to the party it was last year’s title tilt that hooked me on the women’s game. I had heard a lot about Caitlin Clark and was introduced to Angel Reese in that contest. It was everything I had always loved about the game at a pace that allowed for a good deal of strategy from the bench as well as some creativity from floor captains. Despite some standout players there were no apparent prima donnas on the court. These players were truly bonded with each other collaborating and communicating with one goal. To win.

My interest in the men’s game has waned over the years, particularly in the NBA, though truthfully being a Pistons fan has been like following the Washington Generals (perpetual Harlem Globetrotter opponent).
I’m anxious to begin following the WNBA more closely  and will continue to watch  the development of some of those gifted underclasswomen like Ju Ju Watkins and Hannah Hidalgo.

And yet of all the compelling stars and stars to be on this national stage the most impressive of all was South Carolina Coach Dawn Staley the former college and WNBA legend who has built an absolute juggernaut of a team with the Gamecocks. Watching them play in this tournament one understood immediately why they were undefeated. Beyond her success on the court this is one class act. Here’s what she said at the press table after her women won the title.

“I want to personally thank Caitlin Clark for lifting up our sport. She carried a heavy load for our sport. It just is not going to stop here on a collegiate tour but when she is the No. 1 pick in the WNBA Draft, she’s going to lift that league up as well. So Caitlin Clark, if you’re out there, you are one of the GOATs of our game. We appreciate you.”

Well done Coach Staley. Well done indeed.

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