Revolutionizing Howard University Men’s Basketball: Coach Kenny Blakeney’s Bold Proposal
Howard University men’s basketball coach Kenny Blakeney is shaking up the game with a bold proposal to sell a third of the Bison men’s basketball program to private equity firms and wealthy individuals. Blakeney’s plan, as reported by the Washington Post, aims to position the team and Burr Gymnasium for success in the evolving landscape of college athletics.
With rumors swirling that the NCAA basketball tournament could adopt a Power 4 exclusivity model, Blakeney is determined to keep Howard competitive at the highest level. “I don’t want to have a two-tiered system where we’re not able to compete for the NCAA Tournament or the national championship,” he stated. Blakeney’s proposal includes revenue sharing among the potential owner, the university, and the basketball program, as well as collective bargaining with players.
The $100 million price tag for the 33 1/3 percent stake would provide Howard with the resources to upgrade facilities, establish NIL deals with players, and attract interest from other conferences. Despite potential backlash, Blakeney remains resolute in his vision for the program. “This is what we’re dealing with. And if we’re not going to turn our eye to what’s hitting us in the face, then we’re not looking at this thing the right way,” he declared.
As college athletics continue to undergo significant changes, Blakeney’s innovative approach could set Howard University apart in the new era of big business in sports. Stay tuned as the Bison men’s basketball program navigates this groundbreaking proposal and its potential impact on the future of collegiate athletics.