Paying to see practice

If they're allowing the public to come in--even for a fee--it's no longer a closed practice. There has to be some basis for arguing that media should be allowed to attend.

 

If it's a one-time deal for the public, I'd bet your $75 isn't going to allow you to see anything more than what you'd see at an open practice at an NCAA tournament site or the Final Four -- bunch of layup drills, dunks, jacking up shots from midcourt, maybe a couple of walk-throughs. They're not going to do much in front of the public.

 

Agree. It's a exhibition.

 

Tons of people. Not saying I would, but boosters would be all over this.

 

Excellent point.

 

The way things are today, I'd just ask for $50 to buy the X-Box game, and play a computer simulation against the conference rival. You'll learn more than attending a glorified lay-up drill, and you'll save the company 25 bucks.

 

I think it sets a bad precedent that you're paying for access in any way. I'd rather fight to make it open, considering members of the public are going anyway.

 

Imagine UNC is having a practice you can pay $75 to see. You don't think Duke would send some shlub up the road for $75 and lunch money? You're not going to see anything there.

 

I think it's horseshit that they don't let you in but, really, what are you going to see in a practice? Layup drills?

 

I can't believe they wouldn't let you in. This seems just like having a fan luncheon and charging $50 or so. Wouldn't beat writers generally go to those and cover them in some manner without having to pay?

Why is a school going to play hardball on this? I would insist on going without paying.

 

Would you even be allowed to speak with the players in an interview setting?

 

Even if not, what if Stud Forward breaks his ankle and 10,000 people see it but not you?