The focus on the NCAA Basketball Tournaments was overshadowed by a racist incident involving the Utah Utes women's basketball team in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where racist remarks were directed at them, prompting the team to change hotels for safety.

By the Numbers
  • Racist incident directed at Utah Utes women's basketball team during NCAA Tournament in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
  • NCAA and UC Irvine moved teams for safety reasons.
Yes, But

The article acknowledges the efforts of the Coeur d’Alene Police Department and the town's apology but questions if these responses are sufficient.

State of Play
  • Utah Utes women's basketball team faced racism during the NCAA Tournament in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
  • NCAA and UC Irvine relocated teams for safety.
What's Next

The NCAA is called upon to improve protection for student-athletes, take a harder stance against racism, and consider safer locations for tournament games.

Bottom Line

The NCAA is urged to prioritize student-athlete safety, address racism firmly, and reassess decisions on tournament locations to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all participants.