I don’t really get the point of this post. You’re comparing St. John’s players to young men who go into the armed forces? I just want to get this straight.
I’m 47 before you respond to me. Even though I have kids, one teenager, I can’t identify with anyone on this team. Anyone in college basketball for that matter. I grew up in a different era, so I mostly agree with you. But, just because we “know” what’s tough and what isn’t, doesn’t mean anyone under the age of 25 is gonna agree with us. In fact, I don’t think very highly of the toughness of anyone that age, whether I’m generalizing or not.
Point being, the tact Pitino is taking is not the right one. Regardless of whether you or I think today’s college athlete is “coddled” or is being coddled.
I'm not saying he is being tactful in the marketing sense. He is not.
However, every single thing he said happens to be true.
That is what is rubbing everyone the wrong way.
It hurts.
As for the comparison to thousands of young men and women the same age in military academies, it was meant to contrast the discipline expected under challenging situations. Athletes lead a much similar life in college in contrast to their fellow students. They are required to follow strict rules and adhere to schedules that most students can take or leave.
So, for those worrying about the players feelings, realize that most athletes know what they signed up for and respond positively. Most coaches don't want the ones who become resentful or belligerent under challenging situations.
So, while what Pitino is now saying publicly is disturbing, many have been saying publicly on chat forums. As I said when student athletes were allowed to "earn" unlimited NIL and free agency, the player-coach relationship has been redefined.
There is no longer any need for loyalty to the school or coaches by the players.
The hundreds of mostly average players in the portal shows that severed relationship.
So, stop with the "effect" Pitino's words will have "long-term" with anyone.
It's all about playing time and the Benjamin's.