[pefloresjr]

Maybe, just maybe, it’s something as simple as grad school admissions. We know that can’t be taken for granted at Stanford.

So Stanford forced her to graduate in 3 years, but then didn't admit her into grad school?  That doesn't seem likely.  And, even if that happened, she could simply hang around for another year as a Stanford undergrad.  Unless, of course, she thinks her playing prospects -- and/or, perhaps, the coaching staff -- are better at USC next year.  Which isn't exactly a ringing endorsement of Coach Paye...or the Stanford sisterhood.

The obvious factor that easily overwhelms all the other possibilities (like "it must be a problem with the coaching") is BIG MONEY!!!!!  3/4 of a million dollars distorts every other consideration.  SC has made it as far as the elite eight.  Not a ringing endorsement of the strength of their coaching or a weakness in Stanford's coaching.  Grad admissions might have something to do with it but, after cashing in, an athlete can go back and get that grad degree anywhere.  USC will not ask for any legitimate academic commitment during the one to two year "grad student" basketball years.  FOLLOW THE MONEY.  That is the primary reason that I am moving more and more toward a preference for Stanford University to get off this increasingly ridiculous path.  

Cheers,
Pete F.

[pefloresjr]

Maybe, just maybe, it’s something as simple as grad school admissions. We know that can’t be taken for granted at Stanford.

So Stanford forced her to graduate in 3 years, but then didn't admit her into grad school?  That doesn't seem likely.  And, even if that happened, she could simply hang around for another year as a Stanford undergrad.  Unless, of course, she thinks her playing prospects -- and/or, perhaps, the coaching staff -- are better at USC next year.  Which isn't exactly a ringing endorsement of Coach Paye...or the Stanford sisterhood.

The obvious factor that easily overwhelms all the other possibilities (like "it must be a problem with the coaching") is BIG MONEY!!!!!  3/4 of a million dollars distorts every other consideration.  SC has made it as far as the elite eight.  Not a ringing endorsement of the strength of their coaching or a weakness in Stanford's coaching.  Grad admissions might have something to do with it but, after cashing in, an athlete can go back and get that grad degree anywhere.  USC will not ask for any legitimate academic commitment during the one to two year "grad student" basketball years.  FOLLOW THE MONEY.  That is the primary reason that I am moving more and more toward a preference for Stanford University to get off this increasingly ridiculous path.  

Cheers,
Pete F.