the leonard report

REPORT TO DR. FOYOU OF THE VALDOSTA STATE MASTERS OF PUBLIC ADMINSTATION PROGRAM AND ANY OTHER VIEWING PARTY. THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION INTO THE ACADEMIC, RETENTION, AND ETHICS OF VALDOSTA STATE MENS BASKETBALL PROGRAM.JAROD W. LEONARD

VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY

JULY 21, 2014TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introdruction3-4DETAILS BEHIND THE INVESTIGATION4-5Significance of the Problem5-7Online Test Taken By Athletes8-9Laws Regarding Student Rights9-12Interviews13-46a. Ray McCully

b.Brandon Klunder

c. Rodneshia Q. Bridges

d.Bill Register

e.Larry Stone

f. Shane Thomas

g.Mickey Williamson

h.Jason Brown

i.Cait Hassett

j.Anonymous

k.Lhayla Najam

l.David Murray

GRADUATION RATES47RECOMMENDATIONS47-48 WE NEED TO LOOK TO THE FUTURE49CONCLUSION49-50ABOUT THE RESEARCHER51References52Appendix53-65Introduction

The academic support of Valdosta States mens basketball program with regard to the graduation rate has been inconsistent during the past five years. Having been a former member of the VSU basketball program, this researcher has decided to conduct a personal investigation focusing on these actions during the past five years. Year after year the basketball team has been in a rebuilding mode. Rebuilding mode may be the wrong term because each year substantial talent has been allowed to leave in order to bring in another group of players. The question is why? Is this a result of a quick fix policy? The quick fix policy that is being employed may not effectively focus on the long range goal of building the character, values, and independence of these young men, but perhaps the short range goal of winning games. The VSU program is not the National Basketball Association. These are young lives at stake and bringing in new players each year means the current players are not graduating. This researcher will conduct interviews with former players, NAACP members, current students, graduates and boosters regarding the actions of the current coaching philosophy and how it may be impacting the Mens Basketball program, school and community. The interviews will point out specific concerns and offer recommendations that should be in place in order to resolve the issue of academic support and retention while building an ethical basketball program. One statistic that this researcher will focus on is the graduation rate particularly of African American students. During the past five years, 80% of the scholarship players have been African American. It has come to this researchers attention that out of 80% of African American players who have participated in the VSU mens basketball program during the past five years, only one player has graduated and this was during the current 2013-2014 academic year. It doesnt get much better with other races as they are also not graduating to the minimum standards that an excellent institution such as Valdosta State implies. There have only been two other scholarship players to graduate the past five years.The best coaches in the history of college athletics have coached under the philosophy that academics come before athletics. It appears that the current leadership may not be able to comprehend the concept of a student athlete. The lives of young individuals should not be left to the device of a coaching philosophy that is incapable of encompassing this holistic approach into consideration. These aforementioned issues, concerns, and possible recommendations for the future success of the Valdosta State Mens Basketball team will be addressed in The Leonard Report.Details Behind the Investigation

This investigation began during the 2013-2014 academic year for nearly 5 months. The researcher noticed alarming retention and lack of graduation rates with his teammates. Alarming was the first word that came to mind because it is no secret that the mens basketball program does not graduate its players. The researcher wanted to determine the cause and why nothing has been done about this. The researcher spoke with many former players, some who declined to be interviewed, but many were cooperative. After listening to numerous responses the researcher realized there was a major ethical issue taking place amongst the mens basketball program. The former student athletes questioned were not just recent, some competed in the program centuries ago. The older athletes addressed their concerns about the direction the program was proceeding, while the younger generation expressed sorrow for the future athletes who will be placed in similar situations. Graduation rates of basketball student athletes were researched at different universities to compare and contrast. Also unethical statements made by the head coach (Helfer) were exposed by former players, boosters, and fans of the program. In regards to the research nothing was found to be immoral about the actions of current athletic director Herb Reinhard. After the investigation the number one request was for Mr. Reinhard to do something about the issues. This investigation was intense and thorough, independently finding malpractice evidence and following it wherever it might lead. Given all the administrative dilemmas presented, Dr. Foyou suggested an in depth analysis. With the approval from the professor to conduct this research, to make it public after completion, and to go to all lengths to reveal the problem, the researcher was determined to put out a good product. During the investigation there were over 15 academic documents reviewed presenting the grades of the student athletes during the fall and spring semesters. These athletes attended the university during the past five academic school years. Interviews were sought by as many individuals as possible. My goal in preparing this report was to provide Valdosta State with an accurate and fair account of what was taking place behind closed doors with regard to the Valdosta State Mens Basketball Program. To provide context to my proceedings, interviews will be labeled and illustrated in this report. Academic transcripts are not included based on the student privacy agreement.Significance of the Problem Ethics is defined as the discipline dealing with what is good and bad and with moral duty and obligation. 2 a: a set of moral principles: the principles of conduct governing an individual or a group c: a guiding philosophy d: a consciousness of moral importance 3 plural: a set of moral issues or aspects (as rightness) . (Webster) The definition of social ethics in public administration embraces a set of norms, assessments and opinions, which are characteristic of a group of people. This very simple definition of ethics points to society, citizens, groups of people as creators of norms and standards of behavior. Ethics are standards of conduct. These standards can be applied to personal behavior. This is bigger than basketball as LeBron James recently stated in his return to Cleveland. The professional in this case that is exhibited by the head coach who is governing an individual or group is contagious. A team usually takes the personality of its head coach, so while an example is set, the players are like vacuums accumulating information. The information accumulated can be destructive or helpful, but that is determined by the teacher and in this case the teacher is the head coach. Having an unethical society could possibly lead to the future moral downfall of the United States. There are already many controversial leaders in high positions today; most recently Donald Sterling with the LA Clippers. Mr. Sterling thought he was bigger than the game of basketball at the professional level. Mr. Sterling looked down upon his players in a slave like fashion. His excuse was that he was putting food in the mouths of these players. Sadly, similar actions may have taken place at Valdosta State, during an interview the researcher confirmed what he already knew. During a practice in the 2013-2014 academic school year head coach Mike Helfer shouted at a player, you are going to play and act like this, after all I have done for you, I found you at Walmart. The degrading tone and unethical behavior that statement reflects is one of ownership, not of a partnership to build a relationship on and off the court. It doesnt emulate concern about that student athletes future, just current state of play which is temporary. The player happened to be African American, and using the word found you with African Americans draws an eerie comparison to the Slave Era. This demonstrated unethical behavior prohibited by Valdosta State University. As it states on its website All University System of Georgia (USG) employees must complete the USG Ethics Policy training. The policy -- available online at www.usg.edu/compliance/ethics/ -- it is part of a three-pronged approach the University System is taking to enhance compliance with state and federal regulations and to promote ethical conduct by USG faculty, staff, administrators, vendors, contractors and members of the Board of Regents. The seriousness of unethical behavior will be further explained in this report.The graduation rate is a problem that needs to be addressed. Research has provided that 80% of the athletes that get dismissed from the mens basketball program end up not graduating. As you can see on this graph, the importance of graduation and its affects it can have not just on the athlete but ones family. (The red indicates (LNS14027660) (The blue indicates (LNS14027662)

Online Test Taken By Athletes

The mens basketball program had a substantial increase in GPA the first semester compared to the second. Unfortunately that increase wasnt all due to the athletes ability in the classroom. In an interview conducted by an anonymous 2013-2014 member of the basketball team. He stated, There was one test that was pretty much taken for me online. The researched asked if the coach knew about this occurrence. He replied, Of course, I was gone from practice and he sent someone in there to take it with me. Head coach Helfer knew this player was struggling and may be ineligible for the second semester so the test was taken or highly assisted to say the least. In the appendix a.section I. (academic student conduct code) it states cheating and plagiarism are academic integrity violations. Additional violations may be added as deemed appropriate. The following academic integrity violations are not to be considered all-inclusive:

1. No student shall use or attempt to use unauthorized materials or devices to aid in achieving a better grade on a component of a class.

2. No student shall receive or give or attempt to receive or give assistance not authorized by the instructor in the preparation of an essay, laboratory report, examination or other assignment included in any academic course.

3. No student shall take or attempt to take, steal, or otherwise procure in an unauthorized manner any material pertaining to the conduct of a class, including but not limited to tests, examinations, laboratory equipment, and roll books.4. No student shall sell, give, lend, or otherwise furnish to any unauthorized person material which can be shown to contain the questions or answers to any examinations scheduled to be given at any subsequent date in any course of study offered by the University, without authorization from the University.

5. No student shall engage in plagiarism, which is presenting the words or ideas of another person as if they were the students own. Essays, term papers, laboratory reports, tests, online writing assignments, and other similar requirements must be the work of the student submitting them. Some typical examples of plagiarism are:

Submitting an assignment as if it were ones own work when, in fact, it is at least partly or entirely the work of another.

Submitting a work that has been purchased or otherwise obtained from an Internet source or another source.

Incorporating the words or ideas of an author into ones paper without giving the author due credit, e.g., when direct quotations are used, they must be indicated, and when the ideas of another are incorporated in the paper they must be appropriately acknowledged. With this being said what took place was a MAJOR integrity violation not by the athletic program standards but by the school.Laws Regarding Student Rights

Students whether athletes or not do have rights in the United States. These rights are to be protected by the school and conducted by the staff handling them. Here are legal proceedings and explanation of laws in regards to student entitlement. Right to protection from arbitrary or capricious decision making

Decision making should not be arbitrary or capricious / random and, thus, interfere with fairness of Health Sciences /Chicago Med. School, 1988). While this case concerned a private school, Healy v. Larsson (1974), found that what applied to private intuitions applied also to public. Right to have institutions follow their own rules

Institutions are required, contractually, to follow their own rules. Institutional documents may also be considered binding implied-n-fact contracts. Goodman v. President and Trustees of Bowdoin College (2001) ruled that institutional documents are still contractual regardless if they have a disclaimer.

Right to adherence to bulletins and circulars

Students are protected from deviation from information advertised in bulletins or circulars. Right to adherence to regulations

Students are protected from deviation from information advertised in regulations. Right to adherence to course catalogues

Students are protected from deviation from information advertised in course catalogues. Right to adherence to student codes

Students are protected from deviation from information advertised in student codes. Right to adherence to handbooks

Students are protected from deviation from information advertised in handbooks. Right to fulfillment of promises made by advisors

Healy v. Larsson (1974) found that a student who completed degree requirements prescribed by an academic advisor was entitled to a degree on the basis that this was an implied contract.

Right to a continuous contract

Mississippi Medical Center v. Hughes (2000) determined that students have an implied right to a continuous contract during a period of continuous enrollment suggesting that students have the right to graduate so long as they fulfill the requirements as they were originally communicated. Degree requirement changes are unacceptable. Bruner v. Petersen (1997) found also that contractual protections do not apply in the event that a student, who has failed to meet requirements, is readmitted into a program. The student may be required to meet additional requirements which support their success. This may also help avoid issues of discrimination.

Right to notice of degree requirement changes

Brody v. Finch University of Health Sciences Chicago Med. School (1998) determined that students have the right to notice of degree requirement changes. Right to fulfillment of verbal promises

Verbal contracts are also binding. The North Carolina Court of Appeals in Long v. University of North Carolina at Wilmington (1995), found, however, that verbal agreements must be made in an official capacity in order to be binding (Bowden, 2007). Dezick v. Umpqua Community College (1979) found a student was compensated because classes offered orally by the dean were not provided.

The legal proceedings that will be focused on are Mississippi Medical Center v. Hughes which again states that students have an implied right to a continuous contract during a period of continuous enrollment suggesting that students have the right to graduate so long as they fulfill the requirements as they were originally communicated. Every scholarship student athlete at Valdosta State signs a contract that represents the requirements of attending the school. Not once in the contract does poor on the court performance get illustrated. The head coach repeatedly discontinues the scholarship of young athletes who do not perform up to his athletic standard. The researcher interviewed a 2013-2014 participant of the basketball team who explained that the head coach (Helfer) called him into his office and told him, Why do you want to come back here? You will not play anyway. This student was eager to rejoin the team with two years remaining and only needed one course in the summer to be eligible. The student even offered to pay for the course but still was denied. This brings back major ethical concerns about the mens basketball program. The womens program has supported players with injuries because it adopts a family-like philosophy. The mens program is all about what can you do for me now instead of attempting to develop them athletically, emotionally, and mentally. That student should have replied, I want to come back here because I want to finish my degree. Yes this is a slippery slope, but did that student meet Mississippi Medical Center v. Hughes requirements that were FIRST communicated to him? This brings into question what is the coach selling these young adults to come to program after yearly high turnover rates? That is a question the athletic director or other individuals in authority need to determine.Interviews All interview participants were completely cooperative and helpful in the investigation. The interviews took place from 3/26/2014 to 7/19/2014. These interviews had a set of unbiased similar questions and answers. All individuals who interviewed were asked if they wanted to remain anonymous due to issues of confidentiality.

Ray McCully (Booster/VSU Hall of Famer)

Tell me a little bit about yourself and your background with VSU.

I came to Valdosta in late 1962 after spending 4 years in Marine Core. I came to play basketball and to get an education.

How long have you supported/covered/been involved with the basketball program?1962 after graduation, I left for 36 years and came back in 2004 for retirement.

What would you say is the most important objective of a student athlete?

The most important objective is getting a degree in the field that athlete wants to have a career.

I was informed that over the past 5 years only one or two scholarship players have graduated, how do you feel about that statistic?

Thats very disappointing. I think it needs to be more focused that any athlete that comes in to play basketball for the university doesnt lose the goal of graduation.

Do you feel that VSUs basketball program has met the minimum standards of your most important objective of a student athlete?No its falling far short. How do you feel about the turnover rate when it involves student athletes of the basketball program?

The turnover rate is unacceptable and too excessive. We need to keep players who want to stay and make it a priority that athlete gets a degree. I would much prefer to see a better balance between high school athletes and transfers. It seems as if we recruit temporary players who have no real identity.

What changes would you implement so this doesnt take place anymore?The AD and head coach need to get together have a better understanding about the retention and recruiting policy. Set goals and have the coach meet those goals annually.

How do you feel that basketball team and coaching staff carries themselves on the court? (Body language/character/role model/playing ability)

There have been too many incidents of Coach Helfer being out of control and exhibiting strong language which is highly objectionable. There needs to be a better atmosphere with the lines of communication with the coach and players.

What do you believe is the difference between the womens basketball program, which regularly graduates its players and the mens?

Im at a lost why this is occurring except it has to relate back to the coach. I would put less responsibility on the AD because hes providing to both programs so I dont understand why the mens would fall much shorter than the women.

Do you have any final words/hopes/or suggestions for the basketball program?

We have to have better recruiting, there must be standards set for recruiting and retention. If that isnt met some changes need to be made. I expect the AD to better monitor the mens basketball program so it can meet the success of the womens basketball, football, baseball, and softball programs in the case of retention and education.

Brandon Klunder (Former player)


Well my name is Brandon Klunder and I graduated from VSU in May of 2013. I graduated with my BFA in mass media with an emphasis in audio.

How long have you supported/covered/been involved with the basketball program?

I never really went to VSU basketball games until my second year in school when the team started to gain a little more attention from the student body and the team was very entertaining to watch. I got a chance to walk on for the 2010-2011 season and played again during the 2011-2012 campaign as well.


The objective of a student athlete is to represent the program that they are affiliated with not only one the playing field but in the classroom as well.

Do you feel that VSUs basketball program has met the minimum standards of your most important objective of a student athlete?

As a whole I feel like that objective is lost somewhat with the basketball program at this school.


I think that is a very bad statistic and something that I feel like needs to be changed. The student part of the term is not very apparent at all with the past couple of teams. It is not a thing that is preached in the locker room by the coaches as much as it should and most of the players dont take it that seriously either.

How do you feel about the turnover rate when it involves student athletes of the basketball program?

I think that it is a bad thing not only for the program but for the school as well. The program gets hurt by it because there is no comradery amongst the team both on and off the court. And the school is hurt by graduation statistics from the athletic program.

What changes would you implement so this doesnt take place anymore?

I would make the education aspect of it a bigger priority. I dont think that it is not solely on the coaches but they make a huge impact on how much the student athletes actually take studying seriously. There needs to be a larger act of disciplinary measure taken on those that dont reach the minimum requirements per semester.


Well I have been on a team that had great chemistry on the court and the second team I was on had pretty bad chemistry. And you could see it on the bench form both the coaches and the players. I think its upsetting to see the disconnect between the coaches and players at the times when we were struggling. There was never a moment when we were down that I heard anything motivating from coaches or players, it was just all negative.

Only two scholarship players will be returning next year, what is your opinion on that?

I think it has just been a trend that I have seen all through the years that I have actually been involved with the program and it is something that I dont really enjoy seeing. It is hard to build chemistry on the court when you just put together a new team every year. Its also hard to build a good following either because people are not used to all of the new players. That is something that I feel is a direct reflection on the staff. There is no reason why a student athlete would want to leave VSU. The plex and the school are great atmospheres. I was not recruited to play here but I have heard of all of the false promises that were given ahead of time to those on visits and then werent ultimately fulfilled by the staff.


Honestly I am not sure. The girls on that team seem to be a little bit more focused on school work from what I have seen through conversations with them. I do not know exactly what Coach Hill and his staff do as far as disciplinary actions towards those that dont meet the requirements.

Are there any final words/hopes/or suggestions for the basketball program?

I hope to see less churn in the future. I always like to keep close tabs with the new guys and give them any type of guidance that they may need. But that is hard when it is 10 brand new people every year. That is the main thing that I would want to see.

Rodneshia Q. Bridges (Student/fan)Tell me a little bit about yourself and your background with VSU.

Im a junior, Early Childhood Education major. This is my second upcoming year at VSU.


I have supported VSUs basketball program since I transferred, fall 2014.


The most important objective of a student athlete is to have good standing grades, a positive attitude, good sportsmanship, and a great personality.


Yes, I feel like VSUs basketball program has met the minimum requirements.


I feel like no basketball player should be given any scholarship without having good grades and a certain GPA. Just because they are athletes doesnt mean anything. They should work for their scholarships just like any other student trying to achieve a scholarship. Nothing in life is free. Athletes are cut too much slack.


Im not sure about any turnover rate or what it means.


I feel like the basketball players and coaches all carry themselves in a positive manner on the court. I have not noticed anything disruptive. Maybe the team could communicate better with each other as well.


If only two scholarship players are returning then thats good. That means they are the only members who are actually performing on and off the court. Doing schoolwork as well as being a real student athlete.


The womens basketball program is a group of women who are first off better off as students as well. A girl will always handle her business and do work verses a man. They womens program coaches may push their women more and harder to produce grades off court verses the mens coaches, whom may not care about their grades or allow them to do better or progress.


My best advice is to win more games, get another championship, better teamwork, and positive communication on the court. Basketball is a team effort not a one-persons game.

Bill Register (Booster)Tell me a little bit about yourself and your background with VSU.

I have always been a fan of basketball. Back when coach Dominick was coaching at VSU it was a great time and that got me more interested. I was the first athletic trainer at VSU for the baseball program. I also graduated from VSU in 1982 and have had season tickets the last four years for the basketball program.


Since I went to school there.


To me a student athlete needs to represent the school, in most cases a student athlete gets an education. Student athletes need to be a role model to children.


I think thats atrocious, I think its a shame, graduation rate should be 50% or higher. You take bigger programs and they are very high on graduation. I consider Helfer a friend but I believe this is a sad thing.

Only two scholarship players will be returning next year, what is your opinion on that? Well first of all Im an advocate of going after freshmen who not only have good grades but also can play ball. I understand the need to have some JC players but the longer you have a kid in your program the better. The longer you play together the better your team can be. There is no way youre going to win the conference by what were doing the past three years. If you bring in an athlete you have to do your homework.How do you feel about the turnover rate when it involves student athletes of the basketball program?I dont understand whats going on. I dont understand the reason why. I believe if you have a program the responsibility of this falls on the head coach. If the head cannot bring back the players then the AD has to step in and see something is wrong. He needs to address problem with coach and make things right.


Number one women athletes seem to be more driven then men. It seems like a lot of the guys out here are more concerned about social life instead of education. Also Kiley hill maybe pushes it more than Helfer, Im not sure.


I sit in the six row every game and you can hear the language from Helfer. Ive heard a lot of profanity F this and do this and that and thats disappointing. Theres a way to handle it but to be in an athletes face all the time isnt right. Ill give him a slight benefit because he has a winning record.


No


I am a fan and friend of coach Helfer, but I am also realistic. I asked him how long hes going to be here and he said I dont know I cant tell you. I am worried about bringing back only one or two athletes a year. I think something is wrong with that and something that needs to be addressed. Why should boosters and the fans keep coming back year after year if this is how your program is going to be? I believe its the coach, ad, and boosters fault that this hasnt been addressed earlier. I am not happy with the direction the basketball is going. SOMETHING IS WRONG. I am not going to down Herb but Helfer is his employee. My way of thinking is if theres a problem for 3 years Herb step up do something about it. The examples you set as a coach and the way you handle your players says there something wrong. Instead of always pointing fingers fix the problem and look in the mirror.

Larry Stone (Former player)

Tell me a little bit about yourself and your background with VSU.I was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana and have loved the game of basketball since the age of 9. I attended VSU during the 2013-2014 school year on a full scholarship.

How long have you supported/covered/been involved with the basketball program?Just for one calendar school year.What would you say is the most important objective of a student athlete?Being a student, thats why it comes first, STUDENT ATHLETE.

Do you feel that VSUs basketball program has met the minimum standards of your most important objective of a student athlete?From my experience they made and attempt but it was never for seeking graduation but just to be eligible for the second semester. After the season was over there was no serious attempt to keep athletes eligible.

I was informed that over the past 5 years only one or two scholarship players have graduated, how do you feel about that statistic? I feel that is unjust for any athlete going into the program.How do you feel about the turnover rate when it involves student athletes of the basketball program?

I just feel bad for the athletes who sign their life to an unjust situation.

What changes would you implement so this doesnt take place anymore?I think the focus should be shifted to trying to win in the classroom and life instead of on the court. Athletics for the most of us is just a small part of life.

How do you feel that basketball team and coaching staff carries themselves on the court? (Body language/character/role model/playing ability)From my experience the head coach wants the credit for everything that goes on with the players on the court instead of giving it to the guys who are out their shedding blood, sweat, and tears.

Only two scholarship players will be returning next year, what is your opinion on that? Really dont have one but it seems routine so maybe thats just how they operate.


The womens program is like a family and their coach focuses on life and how what they are doing is for their life not just the xs and o on the basketball court.


I just hope the focus can be LIFE because it hits way harder and deeper than any 3 point shot will.

Shane Thomas (Reporter/student)


I started at VSU fall of 2011 and started covering the basketball team in 2013. I have been able to do interviews with the team, its been fun doing it and I hope to continue to do it in the future.


Fall of 2011.

What would you say is the most important objective of a student athlete?I think the general the biggest is being able to handle the student part first. I feel like you really have to buckle down in the classroom and a lot of the time being a part of a team helps with that.

Do you feel that VSUs basketball program has met the minimum standards of your most important objective of a student athlete?I feel that a lot of times in athletics sometimes players just come over and play then leave. But I feel like the effort is there, I dont know the numbers exactly but I do know if you dont perform they will let you go. But I feel if the effort is there it falls more on the student than coaches because you guys study hall and such.I was informed that over the past 5 years only one or two scholarship players have graduated, how do you feel about that statistic?

Its been tough for them. Some of them maybe dont graduate maybe like Josh Sparks he wanted to go play professionally. Sometimes you go chase the money and sometimes it just doesnt work. Sometimes its hard to completely finish.


The turnover has been shocking. When I first came it seemed like the team would be ok but I know there was a lot of off the court problems I know Helfer had to distance himself from that. But I think it says a lot about Helfers recruiting ability even though not many return they always seem to find a way to make it work out.Only two scholarship players will be returning next year, what is your opinion on that?

That kind of hurts because I feel like last years team started out well. They had to sort of change the way they played because they realized they had a lot of guards. Its tough for them but again with Helfers ability to recruit but it will a little bit harder because of the talent on the team last year.

How do you feel that basketball team and coaching staff carries themselves on the court? (Body language/character/role model/playing ability)I think they go to great lengths to get a team to represent the university well. Coach Helfer tries to get a team that will play hard for him and put a good product out. Theres many different things the guys do such as meet the Blazers, shoot with the Blazers so really give everyone a chance to connect with each other especially the younger generation.


I feel like they are always trying to improve, they are getting a new floor which Im happy to see. Its a nice environment but just being able to get a good team out there. Theyre trying to come back up and put a good team out there.

Any final words/hopes/or Are there any final words/hopes/or suggestions for the basketball program?

We had problems winning on the road last year, but I think they will be better next year and figure out what works and sort of go from there.

Mickey Williamson (Booster)Tell me a little bit about yourself and your background with VSU.

I retired and moved to Valdosta, my daughter also went to Valdosta State University. There were individuals in Valdosta who gave her support and wanted I to do same for students when I returned. One way was through sports program I help out different athletes in mens and womens programs


Three years.


The most important objective is to be a student athlete, thats why you call them student athletes. Number two is to be an athlete and represent the university.


No.


I dont think that meets any type of goal that you want for a program. A program should want to bring in student athletes that want to stay for four years. To develop them, form a team, and competiveness on and off the court. The mens basketball team has showed that the coach recruits individuals to come in temporarily. Also I do not believe they are not treated fairly and only stay one or two years. It shows that they are not a team such as the football program, baseball/softball, and womens basketball.


I cant stand it. You can see the lack of chemistry when the plays are run and there is a lack of passing, and cohesiveness. Its run and gun for yourself, and that is due to lack of familiarity with the players on the team.


The ad needs to be more involved and perhaps a new coach be sought. Bottom line I think Helfer needs to be gone.


I think if you look at the demeanor of the assistant coaches, both of those guys are professional (Gast/Burge). Helfer takes all that away. He is for himself and for the record he doesnt care about the players and doesnt give assistants a chance to be assistant coaches. Helfer is 1000% unprofessional. For example when he gets upset he throws stuff and you can hear him degrading rather than mentoring. People have heard him as far as the six row using F word directed towards his players.


That takes my opinion and demonstrates it very subjectively.


The difference of the personality of the coaches and their attitude that has clear cut objectives of what it takes to be a student athlete. Mens basketball are not students number one and number two its not they are not recruiting the right.


I would hope that there would be enough input and enough statements from the boosters that would put the AD in a position that he would have to do something about the coaching on the mens basketball team. Two people that would be great head coaches are Gast and Burge.

Jason Brown (Graduate/fan)

Tell me a little bit about yourself and your background with VSU.Im a recent graduate from Valdosta State University. I was a teaching assistant and the Vice President for VSUs NAACP, before graduating in May.How long have you supported/covered/been involved with the basketball program?Ive been a part of the Blazin Buddies program and have attended a few games.What would you say is the most important objective of a student athlete?In my opinion, graduating is the most important objective of a student athlete.

Do you feel that VSUs basketball program has met the minimum standards of your most important objective of a student athlete?NO

I was informed that over the past 5 years only one or two scholarship players have graduated, how do you feel about that statistic? Its sad. I feel the VSUs athletic department is not doing their job.How do you feel about the turnover rate when it involves student athletes of the basketball program?For the male athletes, I feel the turnover rate is too high and something should be done to ensure retention rates and graduate rates.What changes would you implement so this doesnt take place anymore?I would reconstruct the department and make improvements to scholarship program and retention rates. How do you feel that basketball team and coaching staff carries themselves on the court? (Body language/character/role model/playing ability)There should be better chemistry between the coaching staff and the players. Only two scholarship players will be returning next year, what is your opinion on that? Something should be done to improve this situation. Why were scholarships given to players who no longer want to return to VSU? However, I would want to know what is the cause of the players not returning. It seems as if there are unspoken problems occurring in the basketball program.

What do you believe is the difference between the womens basketball program, which regularly graduates its players and the mens? The major difference is the coaching staff. I have never heard any of the women basketball players complain about their coaches. In fact, many of them have stayed after graduation to attend graduate school and work for the department. Are there any final words/hopes/or suggestions for the basketball program?

It is my suggestion that the President of the University look into this problem. Athletics play a big part of VSU and the Valdosta community. An evaluation should be done to monitor the efficiency and the productivity of the players and the program. Also, an evaluation should be done to measure the effectiveness and productivity of the coaches and staff.Cait Hassett (Graduate/radio host/fan)Tell me a little bit about yourself and your background with VSU.Im 24 years old I have a BFA in Speech communications with an emphasis in General Speech and a minor in Mass Media. I am currently working on my second degree in Intercultural Organizational Communications with a minor in Public Relations.

How long have you supported/covered/been involved with the basketball program?I used to be friends with some basketball players from and went to the games.

What would you say is the most important objective of a student athlete?To use their athletic talents as a ways to get a good education, graduate from college, and move on to a successful job whether or not it involves taking their skill set to a professional level.

Do you feel that VSUs basketball program has met the minimum standards of your most important objective of a student athlete?Im not extremely familiar with the team currently but I have noticed a lot of change in players recently which makes me think that the athletes arent staying around long enough to finish their education.

I was informed that over the past 5 years only one or two scholarship players have graduated, how do you feel about that statistic? Im really not surprised. From having classes with some basketball players but just athletes in general I feel that they receive special treatment when it comes to classes. I think student athletes lose sight of the fact that they are just that; student first and athlete second. It seems they play around in class in order to play their respective sport and when their eligibility is up they dont have much to show for their time. I think its sad that the coaches and professors dont put more emphasis on their school work.

How do you feel about the turnover rate when it involves student athletes of the basketball program?It seems the basketball players especially dont stay around very long at all. They might have one season then you never see them again. Its hard to see how much of an education they are truly getting when they bounce from college to college, well really program to program because they change schools based on the team not on the education they will receive. That has to cause issues with major changes, classes transferring, etc.

What changes would you implement so this doesnt take place anymore?I would think student athletes would have to be in school for a certain amount of time before they are eligible to play, proving that they can balance their life with school and make the grades necessary. The coaches should be checking in on their grades also. I know some sports like softball have coaches that are very active in the players personal lives; maybe basketball needs to adopt this concept.


n/a

Only two scholarship players will be returning next year, what is your opinion on that? I think its sad to give money to athletes that will play for one year and go on somewhere else. They wear the jersey for a minute but dont finish with a degree to hang on the wall. That just makes no sense to me.What do you believe is the difference between the womens basketball program, which regularly graduates its players and the mens? I would assume their coaching staff probably stays on top of their academics.

Anonymous (Booster)


Id like to stay anonymous because I consider Helfer my friend, but Id still like to give my opinion. I graduated from VSU and received a masters degree from VSU. I am a huge supporter of the VSU basketball program.


30 years


Most important is to graduate and get a good job. Sports is always secondary to graduating.


Were having problems in keeping players here and graduate.


Thats not a good trend for our college I am for sure about that.


Theres a problem that our coach is having problem with recruiting.


It doesnt look good for our college and basketball program that they are not returning.


If I was the coach I would go to the AD and say I want to build the program from the ground up. I would like to recruit more high school players instead of junior college players.


I havent seen any fights occur this past year on the court which is good. The assistant coach (Burge) picks up the slack and it seems like the players enjoy working with him. The head coach is a good end of game manager. Lhayla Najam (VSU Student/fan)Tell me a little bit about yourself and your background with VSU.My name is Lhayla Najam and Im 20 years old. Im a junior at VSU and I am majoring in Pre-med.

How long have you supported/covered/been involved with the basketball program?I absolutely love basketball and have played all my life so Ive been to almost every home game since I started at Valdosta State.

What would you say is the most important objective of a student athlete?I would say that the most important objective for a student athlete would be to find a good balance between their sport and their education so that they can not only be successful in the classroom but also on the field/court.

Do you feel that VSUs basketball program has met the minimum standards of your most important objective of a student athlete?No I do not think that the basketball program at VSU has met those standards. Not even close. As bad as this may sound, 90% of the players at VSU in the last years have been there solely to play basketball, not to get an education.

I was informed that over the past 5 years only one or two scholarship players have graduated, how do you feel about that statistic? Its entirely too low. This is to blame for the lack of success the team has achieved.

How do you feel about the turnover rate when it involves student athletes of the basketball program?In my opinion, thats the biggest problem that the basketball program here at VSU faces. I feel as though almost the entire team changes each year, which really hurts them when it comes to being successful as a whole.

What changes would you implement so this doesnt take place anymore?The coach needs to make better decisions in choosing his players each year. He needs to not only focus on the talent of the players on the court, but he also needs to take into consideration their academic achievements and success.

How do you feel that basketball team and coaching staff carries themselves on the court? (Body language/character/role model/playing ability)As individuals, I believe for the most part the players each have good character and playing ability. However, when you put them together to play as a team, they fail to succeed. Also, there have been many instances where most VSU basketball fans, including myself, have not agreed with what the head coach does with his players on the court. I see a lot of problems when it comes to who gets the most playing time. Sometimes it seems like it is more of whom the coach likes better rather than who will get on the court and play the best with the rest of the players on the team.

Only two scholarship players will be returning next year, what is your opinion on that? While this doesnt surprise me, I do not think that the team will get any further than they have in the last few years.

Are there any final words/hopes/or suggestions for the basketball program?I hope that Valdosta will realize that our basketball team has the potential to be great if it were in the hands of someone who would make decisions that is best for the team. If the coach would make smarter decision in choosing his players, the team would have more players that would return each year and that alone will give them a better chance at winning a national championship. They will have the opportunity to not only grow as individuals each year, but they will also gain that chemistry as a team on the court that they have recently been lacking. This lack of chemistry forces each player to play for himself, to only play to be the Star of the team. This is a huge problem. However, I certainly do not blame them for playing this way, I blame the coach. He allows this to happen. Its hard for players to get used to playing together and to grow as a team when it seems as though the players change almost entirely each year.

David Murray (Former player)


My name is David Murray, and I transferred in as a junior and just finish my senior season here at VSU.


For two years.


Just staying on top of your school work while doing all the traveling during the season, and also staying on top of it as well once your sport season is over.


Yes for the most part.


I mean that's different, but not normal but hey that is true.


It is what it is, that's all I can really say about it.


I feel they carry themselves in a pretty good way but different as well.


That's amazing if you ask me.


I'll say the women take their school work a little more serious than the men well some of them, or should I say they are stricter on them.

Any final words/hopes/or suggestions for the basketball program?

I love the time I spent at VSU and was glad to be a part of the family, best of luck to the years to come.

Graduation Rates (See appendix pg. 51-63) This graph illustrates the most recent NCAA and federal graduation rattes for all 346 Division 1 men's basketball programs. Division 1 schools would have a harder time graduating its students then Valdosta State a D2 school because there are more players who try to play professionally early. Even with that fact Valdosta State would fall second to last on the poll of 346 schools. 2 % of 50 (10 scholarships over 5 years) = 1. Or 1 % of 50 would = .05. This is nowhere near the rest of the nation and an embarrassing stat for the mens basketball program. SU's rates were: NCAA, 45 percent; 33 percent federal. This year's cohort is based on student-athletes who entered college between the 2003-04 and 2006-07 seasons. The rate shows the percentage of those student-athletes who earned a degree within six years. (Note: You can sort any column by clicking on the column header)

Recommendations Since this is an occurring process it is obvious more attention needs to be designated to athletic eligibility and graduation. Shane Thomas journalist for the VSU spectator was right on his statement when he said that, I dont know the numbers exactly but I do know if you dont perform they will let you go. But I feel if the effort is there it falls more on the student than coaches because you guys had study hall and such. Yes study hall and tutors are provided to tutors who need them but Larry Stone summed up that policy, From my experience they made an attempt but it was never for seeking graduation but just to be eligible for the second semester. After the season was over there was no serious attempt to keep athletes eligible. I was informed by other student athletes that there was little to no study hall after the first semester was over. Was this a way for the staff to sabotage the basketball players and to give them a reason not to bring players back? Why would a method that obviously worked and enabled players to earn passing grades during the first semester change during the second semester? These are all questions the athletic director should discuss with the head coach. There should be equal to or greater support and monitoring of academic progress during the second semester because of the larger workload on the basketball court. Basketball players may be absent from the classroom weeks at a time until the end of March which results in much class time being missed. If the coaching staff is being irresponsible with their standards the athlete can quickly fall into an educational trap which is difficult if not impossible to get out of. Progress reports that had to be signed by the instructor were given out in the first semester but not during the second semester which also exhibits lack of concern. The progress reports should remain relevant throughout the entire school year. Players should not be recruited unless there is a realistic and achievable goal for them to graduate. Many players sign contract papers to this program based up Coach Helfers charismatic, persuasive personality in addition to the impressiveness of the physical complex which is arguably one of the best D2 arenas in the nation. For transfer students, those contracts may be signed without fully knowing if all or most credits will transfer in. Since it is a trend that Valdosta State Mens basketball program only recruits transfer and Junior College players, the athletes need to be informed about their academic standing with the school BEFORE any papers are signed. This may prolong the process but it is the most ethical way of doing business. Some of these athletes are in a hole before even stepping foot on campus because of lack of knowledge regarding credit transfer. If the coaching staff is unable to follow the standards of the school the athletic director or president should step in and take control of the situation.We Need to Look to the FutureThe monitoring of this quick fix policy has been delayed or overlooked for years by the players, Administration, boosters, student body, and the entire athletic program. However, there is a New Year and season approaching and changes can still be made to improve the university so this is no longer a reoccurring issue. To prolong this debate will not resolve it; if the mens basketball players are graduating, then present the evidence. The players are not graduating and delaying this process will seriously detract from what is a critical necessity which is the need for everyone in the Valdosta State athletic program to work together to devise and implement the strongest possible strategy to combat this behavior. The researcher urges Athletic Director Herb Reinhard to act upon these findings. The researcher understands that by making this argument there might be parties against it. The statistics in this case do not lie. The goal of this investigation was to bring to a resolution to this troubling chapter in Valdosta State Mens Basketball. The issues of the past should be used as lessons so this will not take place in the future. While The Leonard Report made us look back at mistakes and mishaps, the effort of all parties should be focused on the future. That is why the recommendations made are prospective. Spending more time on this obvious issue will keep everyone in the past and IT IS TIME TO MOVE FORWARD fairly and ethically.Conclusion One common trait that everyone interviewed had in common is concern. No one wants to see the basketball program that they cherish in a state of turmoil. That is what it has become. The fans and boosters do not know what to expect year after year and it has gotten to the point where the program has become not only chaotic but is also a laughing stock to other teams in the conference. This will hopefully cause awareness as this paper will get into the right hands. The only hope that Blazer Nation has is that something will be done about it.

ABOUT THE RESEARCHER

Jarod Leonard is son to Chat and Jesse Leonard. From St Louis, Missouri and grew up and attended high school at DeSmet Jesuit High. Leonard started college in 2009 at the age of 21 and has received three degrees to date; an Associates Degree from Daytona State College in Business Management, a Bachelor in Liberal Studies with business specialization at Bethune Cookman University, and a recent graduate of the Masters of Public Administration program at Valdosta State University. Leonard was a student athlete excelling both academically and athletically at Daytona State College and received all state recommendations. During the next year at Bethune Cookman University, Leonard earned Magna Cum Laude status for his degree work at that institution. Leonard, who also participated in the Valdosta State mens basketball program, received his masters in one year. During the fall of 2014, Leonard plans to begin a doctoral degree program in Business Administration with a specialization in Human Resource Management. He also has aspirations of becoming a professional basketball player.

References

Graduation rates 2013 for division 1 men's basketball programs: How does your favorite team rank?. (n.d.). syracuse.com. Retrieved July 21, 2014, from http://blog.syracuse.com/sports/2013/10/graduation_rates_2013_for_divi.htmlNCAA looks to tackle ethical issues in men's basketball - USATODAY.com. (n.d.). NCAA looks to tackle ethical issues in men's basketball - USATODAY.com. Retrieved July 21, 2014, from http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/college/mensbasketball/2009-05-14-coaches-ethics_N.htmNews. (n.d.). All Employees Required to Complete USG Ethics Training. Retrieved July 21, 2014, from http://www.valdosta.edu/about/news/releases/2010/02/ethics020210.phpStaff, C., & Botelho, G. (1970, January 1). Connecticut men's hoops team can't play in next year's NCAA tourney. CNN. Retrieved July 21, 2014, from http://www.cnn.com/2012/04/05/us/connecticut-basketball-tournament-ban/What the NCAA Should Do About College Basketball Transfers. (n.d.). Athletic Scholarships. Retrieved July 21, 2014, from http://www.athleticscholarships.net/2014/06/05/what-the-ncaa-should-do-about-college-basketball-transfers.htmethic. (n.d.). Merriam-Webster. Retrieved July 19, 2014, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ethicAppendixTop of Form

CollegeConferenceStateRate (NCAA)Rate (federal)

Belmont UniversityOhio Valley ConferenceTN100100

Boston UniversityAmerica East ConferenceMA10063

Brown UniversityThe Ivy LeagueRI100

Bucknell UniversityPatriot LeaguePA100100

Colgate UniversityPatriot LeagueNY10091

College of the Holy CrossPatriot LeagueMA10087

Dartmouth CollegeThe Ivy LeagueNH100

Davidson CollegeSouthern ConferenceNC10091

Drexel UniversityColonial Athletic AssociationPA10069

Duke UniversityAtlantic Coast ConferenceNC10062

Fairfield UniversityMetro Atlantic Athletic ConferenceCT10050

George Mason UniversityColonial Athletic AssociationVA10090

Harvard UniversityThe Ivy LeagueMA100

Jacksonville UniversityAtlantic Sun ConferenceFL10044

Loyola Marymount UniversityWest Coast ConferenceCA10050

Loyola University ChicagoHorizon LeagueIL10077

Northeastern UniversityColonial Athletic AssociationMA10064

Pennsylvania State UniversityBig Ten ConferencePA10071

Princeton UniversityThe Ivy LeagueNJ100

Rider UniversityMetro Atlantic Athletic ConferenceNJ10073

Rutgers, State Univ of New Jersey, New BrunswickAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)NJ10055

Samford UniversitySouthern ConferenceAL10064

Santa Clara UniversityWest Coast ConferenceCA10060

St. John's University (New York)American Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)NY10040

St. Mary's College of CaliforniaWest Coast ConferenceCA10083

Tulane UniversityConference USALA10069

University of DaytonAtlantic 10 ConferenceOH10055

University of Illinois, ChampaignBig Ten ConferenceIL10080

University of KansasBig 12 ConferenceKS10031

University of Notre DameAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)IN10083

University of San DiegoWest Coast ConferenceCA10075

University of South FloridaAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)FL1000

University of the PacificBig West ConferenceCA10067

University of VermontAmerica East ConferenceVT10047

University of Wisconsin-Green BayHorizon LeagueWI10069

Utah State UniversityWestern Athletic ConferenceUT10067

Villanova UniversityAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)PA10075

West Virginia UniversityBig 12 ConferenceWV10053

Western Michigan UniversityMid-American ConferenceMI10079

Winthrop UniversityBig South ConferenceSC10073

Xavier UniversityAtlantic 10 ConferenceOH10075

Yale UniversityThe Ivy LeagueCT100

U.S. Air Force AcademyMountain West ConferenceCO94

University of South DakotaThe Summit LeagueSD9473

American UniversityPatriot LeagueDC9382

Stetson UniversityAtlantic Sun ConferenceFL9385

Brigham Young UniversityWest Coast ConferenceUT9263

Drake UniversityMissouri Valley ConferenceIA9275

Elon UniversitySouthern ConferenceNC9277

Fordham UniversityAtlantic 10 ConferenceNY9282

Middle Tennessee State UniversitySun Belt ConferenceTN9250

Presbyterian CollegeBig South ConferenceSC9277

Saint Francis University (Pennsylvania)Northeast ConferencePA9275

University of Missouri-Kansas CityThe Summit LeagueMO9263

Western Kentucky UniversitySun Belt ConferenceKY9264

Austin Peay State UniversityOhio Valley ConferenceTN9177

Baylor UniversityBig 12 ConferenceTX9170

Creighton UniversityMissouri Valley ConferenceNE9160

Eastern Kentucky UniversityOhio Valley ConferenceKY9147

Loyola University MarylandMetro Atlantic Athletic ConferenceMD9158

Mount St. Mary's UniversityNortheast ConferenceMD9191

University of California, DavisBig West ConferenceCA9150

Butler UniversityAtlantic 10 ConferenceIN9056

Niagara UniversityMetro Atlantic Athletic ConferenceNY9050

Saint Joseph's UniversityAtlantic 10 ConferencePA9062

U.S. Military AcademyPatriot LeagueNY90

University of North Carolina, AshevilleBig South ConferenceNC9067

University of North Carolina, Chapel HillAtlantic Coast ConferenceNC9060

Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State UniversityAtlantic Coast ConferenceVA9069

Wofford CollegeSouthern ConferenceSC9046

Furman UniversitySouthern ConferenceSC8964

Lafayette CollegePatriot LeaguePA8957

Michigan State UniversityBig Ten ConferenceMI8967

North Carolina State UniversityAtlantic Coast ConferenceNC8964

University of Rhode IslandAtlantic 10 ConferenceRI8945

Vanderbilt UniversitySoutheastern ConferenceTN8970

Charleston Southern UniversityBig South ConferenceSC8831

Illinois State UniversityMissouri Valley ConferenceIL8864

University of Arkansas, Little RockSun Belt ConferenceAR8830

University of IowaBig Ten ConferenceIA8822

University of Northern ColoradoBig Sky ConferenceCO8847

University of PortlandWest Coast ConferenceOR8838

Wake Forest UniversityAtlantic Coast ConferenceNC8847

Cornell UniversityThe Ivy LeagueNY87

Radford UniversityBig South ConferenceVA8767

Central Connecticut State UniversityNortheast ConferenceCT8633

Marist CollegeMetro Atlantic Athletic ConferenceNY8658

Rice UniversityConference USATX8677

Seattle UniversityWestern Athletic ConferenceWA8671

Texas State University-San MarcosWestern Athletic ConferenceTX8610

University of Maryland Eastern ShoreMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.MD8617

University of Maryland, Baltimore CountyAmerica East ConferenceMD8660

University of North Carolina, WilmingtonColonial Athletic AssociationNC8675

Appalachian State UniversitySouthern ConferenceNC8573

College of William and MaryColonial Athletic AssociationVA8577

Eastern Illinois UniversityOhio Valley ConferenceIL8525

Northwestern State UniversitySouthland ConferenceLA8571

Southern Methodist UniversityConference USATX8567

University of Miami (Florida)Atlantic Coast ConferenceFL8554

Virginia Commonwealth UniversityAtlantic 10 ConferenceVA8567

Cleveland State UniversityHorizon LeagueOH8350

Columbia University-Barnard CollegeThe Ivy LeagueNY83

Lamar UniversitySouthland ConferenceTX8338

Nicholls State UniversitySouthland ConferenceLA8329

St. Peter's UniversityMetro Atlantic Athletic ConferenceNJ8340

Stanford UniversityPac-12 ConferenceCA8375

Texas Tech UniversityBig 12 ConferenceTX8329

Troy UniversitySun Belt ConferenceAL8357

University of Nevada, Las VegasMountain West ConferenceNV8370

University of PennsylvaniaThe Ivy LeaguePA83

University of Texas at AustinBig 12 ConferenceTX8321

University of UtahPac-12 ConferenceUT8340

Wagner CollegeNortheast ConferenceNY8359

East Tennessee State UniversityAtlantic Sun ConferenceTN8229

Gonzaga UniversityWest Coast ConferenceWA8270

Houston Baptist UniversityGreat West ConferenceTX8250

Lehigh UniversityPatriot LeaguePA8275

Montana State University-BozemanBig Sky ConferenceMT8245

Oakland UniversityThe Summit LeagueMI8254

Seton Hall UniversityAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)NJ8250

University of KentuckySoutheastern ConferenceKY8253

University of Maryland, College ParkAtlantic Coast ConferenceMD8273

Texas Christian UniversityBig 12 ConferenceTX8158

Binghamton UniversityAmerica East ConferenceNY8056

Bryant UniversityNortheast ConferenceRI8080

Hofstra UniversityColonial Athletic AssociationNY8057

Long Beach State UniversityBig West ConferenceCA8040

McNeese State UniversitySouthland ConferenceLA8080

Missouri State UniversityMissouri Valley ConferenceMO8073

Northwestern UniversityBig Ten ConferenceIL8073

Pepperdine UniversityWest Coast ConferenceCA8011

Portland State UniversityBig Sky ConferenceOR8043

Siena CollegeMetro Atlantic Athletic ConferenceNY8043

Southern Illinois University EdwardsvilleOhio Valley ConferenceIL8040

U.S. Naval AcademyPatriot LeagueMD80

University at AlbanyAmerica East ConferenceNY8058

University of WashingtonPac-12 ConferenceWA8058

Washington State UniversityPac-12 ConferenceWA8058

Western Illinois UniversityThe Summit LeagueIL8011

Campbell UniversityBig South ConferenceNC7958

Coastal Carolina UniversityBig South ConferenceSC7962

Indiana University-Purdue University, Fort WayneThe Summit LeagueIN7922

Mercer UniversityAtlantic Sun ConferenceGA7956

Miami University (Ohio)Mid-American ConferenceOH7969

Murray State UniversityOhio Valley ConferenceKY7955

North Dakota State UniversityThe Summit LeagueND7985

Boston CollegeAtlantic Coast ConferenceMA7836

Clemson UniversityAtlantic Coast ConferenceSC7850

Monmouth UniversityNortheast ConferenceNJ7847

University of HartfordAmerica East ConferenceCT7850

Valparaiso UniversityHorizon LeagueIN7843

Georgia State UniversityColonial Athletic AssociationGA7775

La Salle UniversityAtlantic 10 ConferencePA7775

Marquette UniversityAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)WI7746

Northern Illinois UniversityMid-American ConferenceIL7715

University of AlabamaSoutheastern ConferenceAL7750

University of DenverWestern Athletic ConferenceCO7760

University of OregonPac-12 ConferenceOR7780

University of TulsaConference USAOK7750

Arizona State UniversityPac-12 ConferenceAZ7525

Bethune-Cookman UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.FL7550

Bradley UniversityMissouri Valley ConferenceIL7550

Duquesne UniversityAtlantic 10 ConferencePA7527

Gardner-Webb UniversityBig South ConferenceNC7538

Sacred Heart UniversityNortheast ConferenceCT7580

San Diego State UniversityMountain West ConferenceCA7550

Tennessee Technological UniversityOhio Valley ConferenceTN7550

University of California, IrvineBig West ConferenceCA7527

University of Illinois at ChicagoHorizon LeagueIL7580

University of MichiganBig Ten ConferenceMI7550

University of Missouri, ColumbiaSoutheastern ConferenceMO7536

Weber State UniversityBig Sky ConferenceUT7550

Wichita State UniversityMissouri Valley ConferenceKS7529

High Point UniversityBig South ConferenceNC7350

Long Island University-Brooklyn CampusNortheast ConferenceNY7367

Southern Illinois University at CarbondaleMissouri Valley ConferenceIL7355

St. Francis College BrooklynNortheast ConferenceNY7338

University of EvansvilleMissouri Valley ConferenceIN7353

University of Northern IowaMissouri Valley ConferenceIA7354

University of South AlabamaSun Belt ConferenceAL7350

Western Carolina UniversitySouthern ConferenceNC7342

Boise State UniversityMountain West ConferenceID7244

University of Texas, Pan AmericanGreat West ConferenceTX7250

Florida State UniversityAtlantic Coast ConferenceFL7130

University of North TexasSun Belt ConferenceTX7171

California State University, SacramentoBig Sky ConferenceCA7029

University of AkronMid-American ConferenceOH7060

University of LouisvilleAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)KY7036

University of Maine, OronoAmerica East ConferenceME7050

University of RichmondAtlantic 10 ConferenceVA7046

Fairleigh Dickinson University, Metropolitan CampusNortheast ConferenceNJ6970

Manhattan CollegeMetro Atlantic Athletic ConferenceNY6964

Northern Arizona UniversityBig Sky ConferenceAZ6938

Old Dominion UniversityColonial Athletic AssociationVA6969

Southeast Missouri State UniversityOhio Valley ConferenceMO6929

St. Bonaventure UniversityAtlantic 10 ConferenceNY6925

University of Central ArkansasSouthland ConferenceAR6957

University of Minnesota, Twin CitiesBig Ten ConferenceMN6946

University of North Carolina at GreensboroSouthern ConferenceNC6947

University of North DakotaBig Sky ConferenceND6925

University of OklahomaBig 12 ConferenceOK6945

Alcorn State UniversitySouthwestern Athletic Conf.MS67100

California State University, FullertonBig West ConferenceCA670

Georgetown UniversityAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)DC6733

Hampton UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.VA6742

Providence CollegeAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)RI6747

Purdue UniversityBig Ten ConferenceIN6727

University of Colorado, BoulderPac-12 ConferenceCO6725

University of Wisconsin, MilwaukeeHorizon LeagueWI6740

Virginia Military InstituteBig South ConferenceVA6757

Kent State UniversityMid-American ConferenceOH6550

University of Hawaii, ManoaBig West ConferenceHI6550

University of IdahoWestern Athletic ConferenceID6522

University of North FloridaAtlantic Sun ConferenceFL6542

DePaul UniversityAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)IL6438

Eastern Washington UniversityBig Sky ConferenceWA6411

Jacksonville State UniversityOhio Valley ConferenceAL6414

Kansas State UniversityBig 12 ConferenceKS6430

Longwood UniversityBig South ConferenceVA6446

Oral Roberts UniversitySouthland ConferenceOK6450

Savannah State UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.GA6438

University at Buffalo, the State University of New YorkMid-American ConferenceNY6464

University of ArizonaPac-12 ConferenceAZ6450

University of DelawareColonial Athletic AssociationDE6450

University of Louisiana at LafayetteSun Belt ConferenceLA6450

University of North Carolina, CharlotteAtlantic 10 ConferenceNC6443

University of VirginiaAtlantic Coast ConferenceVA6453

Marshall UniversityConference USAWV6320

Saint Louis UniversityAtlantic 10 ConferenceMO6342

University of GeorgiaSoutheastern ConferenceGA6336

University of Tennessee at MartinOhio Valley ConferenceTN6350

California Polytechnic State UniversityBig West ConferenceCA6250

Howard UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.DC6264

Iona CollegeMetro Atlantic Athletic ConferenceNY6267

Jackson State UniversitySouthwestern Athletic Conf.MS6245

Ohio UniversityMid-American ConferenceOH6286

Oregon State UniversityPac-12 ConferenceOR6254

Southeastern Louisiana UniversitySouthland ConferenceLA6213

Temple UniversityAtlantic 10 ConferencePA6250

Texas A&M University, College StationSoutheastern ConferenceTX6240

Eastern Michigan UniversityMid-American ConferenceMI6036

Florida Gulf Coast UniversityAtlantic Sun ConferenceFL6033

George Washington UniversityAtlantic 10 ConferenceDC6045

Louisiana Tech UniversityWestern Athletic ConferenceLA6033

Morehead State UniversityOhio Valley ConferenceKY606

South Carolina State UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.SC6022

University of California, Los AngelesPac-12 ConferenceCA6046

University of FloridaSoutheastern ConferenceFL6013

University of Massachusetts, AmherstAtlantic 10 ConferenceMA6014

University of MississippiSoutheastern ConferenceMS6036

University of NevadaMountain West ConferenceNV6033

University of Tennessee, KnoxvilleSoutheastern ConferenceTN6042

University of ToledoMid-American ConferenceOH6056

Tennessee State UniversityOhio Valley ConferenceTN5938

Auburn UniversitySoutheastern ConferenceAL5850

Florida Atlantic UniversitySun Belt ConferenceFL5829

Idaho State UniversityBig Sky ConferenceID5850

Sam Houston State UniversitySouthland ConferenceTX5863

Stony Brook UniversityAmerica East ConferenceNY5829

University of Arkansas, Pine BluffSouthwestern Athletic Conf.AR5860

University of Central FloridaConference USAFL5825

University of CincinnatiAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)OH580

University of South Carolina UpstateAtlantic Sun ConferenceSC5833

University of South Carolina, ColumbiaSoutheastern ConferenceSC5840

University of MontanaBig Sky ConferenceMT5740

Georgia Southern UniversitySouthern ConferenceGA5645

Louisiana State UniversitySoutheastern ConferenceLA5631

Robert Morris UniversityNortheast ConferencePA5636

Stephen F. Austin State UniversitySouthland ConferenceTX5643

The CitadelSouthern ConferenceSC5633

Towson UniversityColonial Athletic AssociationMD5667

University of Nebraska, LincolnBig Ten ConferenceNE5627

University of New HampshireAmerica East ConferenceNH5627

Ball State UniversityMid-American ConferenceIN5530

Bowling Green State UniversityMid-American ConferenceOH5533

Canisius CollegeMetro Atlantic Athletic ConferenceNY5531

James Madison UniversityColonial Athletic AssociationVA5527

South Dakota State UniversityThe Summit LeagueSD5538

University of California, Santa BarbaraBig West ConferenceCA5530

University of Detroit MercyHorizon LeagueMI5538

University of MemphisConference USATN5533

University of Southern CaliforniaPac-12 ConferenceCA5519

California State University, FresnoMountain West ConferenceCA5443

Central Michigan UniversityMid-American ConferenceMI5440

Iowa State UniversityBig 12 ConferenceIA5415

Quinnipiac UniversityNortheast ConferenceCT5431

University of PittsburghAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)PA5445

Colorado State UniversityMountain West ConferenceCO538

Delaware State UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.DE5333

Prairie View A&M UniversitySouthwestern Athletic Conf.TX5313

Wright State UniversityHorizon LeagueOH5338

Alabama State UniversitySouthwestern Athletic Conf.AL5020

Arkansas State UniversitySun Belt ConferenceAR500

Coppin State UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.MD5020

East Carolina UniversityConference USANC5013

Florida International UniversitySun Belt ConferenceFL5022

Lipscomb UniversityAtlantic Sun ConferenceTN5033

Mississippi Valley State UniversitySouthwestern Athletic Conf.MS5067

Norfolk State UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.VA5025

University of Southern MississippiConference USAMS5038

University of Tennessee at ChattanoogaSouthern ConferenceTN5050

Youngstown State UniversityHorizon LeagueOH5018

California State University, NorthridgeBig West ConferenceCA4850

North Carolina Central UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.NC4633

Texas A&M University-Corpus ChristiSouthland ConferenceTX4629

The Ohio State UniversityBig Ten ConferenceOH4636

University of Texas at San AntonioWestern Athletic ConferenceTX4620

Florida A&M UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.FL4567

North Carolina A&T State UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.NC4533

Syracuse UniversityAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)NY4533

Texas Southern UniversitySouthwestern Athletic Conf.TX4522

University of New MexicoMountain West ConferenceNM4529

University of Texas at El PasoConference USATX450

Indiana University-Purdue University at IndianapolisThe Summit LeagueIN4450

Liberty UniversityBig South ConferenceVA4462

Oklahoma State UniversityBig 12 ConferenceOK4425

University of Alabama at BirminghamConference USAAL4450

University of Wisconsin, MadisonBig Ten ConferenceWI4436

Indiana University, BloomingtonBig Ten ConferenceIN439

New Jersey Institute of TechnologyGreat West ConferenceNJ4346

University of California, RiversideBig West ConferenceCA4333

Georgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantic Coast ConferenceGA4031

Southern Utah UniversityBig Sky ConferenceUT4020

University of HoustonConference USATX4025

University of San FranciscoWest Coast ConferenceCA400

University of Texas at ArlingtonWestern Athletic ConferenceTX4025

Alabama A&M UniversitySouthwestern Athletic Conf.AL3831

College of Charleston (South Carolina)Southern ConferenceSC3831

University of California, BerkeleyPac-12 ConferenceCA3821

California State University, BakersfieldIndependentCA3760

Indiana State UniversityMissouri Valley ConferenceIN3623

Utah Valley UniversityGreat West ConferenceUT3613

University of New OrleansIndependentLA3511

Kennesaw State UniversityAtlantic Sun ConferenceGA3317

Mississippi State UniversitySoutheastern ConferenceMS3319

San Jose State UniversityWestern Athletic ConferenceCA310

Morgan State UniversityMid-Eastern Athletic Conf.MD2925

New Mexico State UniversityWestern Athletic ConferenceNM290

University of Louisiana at MonroeSun Belt ConferenceLA2950

University of WyomingMountain West ConferenceWY2910

Southern University, Baton RougeSouthwestern Athletic Conf.LA2829

Grambling State UniversitySouthwestern Athletic Conf.LA1711

Chicago State UniversityGreat West ConferenceIL100

University of Arkansas, FayettevilleSoutheastern ConferenceAR109

University of ConnecticutAmerican Athletic Conference (Formally Big East Conference)CT80

Centenary College (Louisiana)Southern Collegiate Athletic ConferenceLA00

8

the leonard report

Documents

vsu basketball program

current players

ethical basketball program

vsu program

basketball team

academic year

scholarship players

african american players