NCAA president boasts about women’s volleyball TV ratings amid SJSU trans athlete controversy and lawsuits

The NCAA women’s volleyball tournament saw a significant increase in TV ratings this year, with NCAA President Charlie Baker claiming a 100% rise during an interview on ESPN’s “The Pat McAfee Show.” This surge comes on the heels of a 115% increase from the previous year, showcasing the growing popularity of the sport.

Baker expressed his excitement over the growth in viewership, attributing it to the appeal of competition and the passion of young athletes. He emphasized the importance of recognizing all sports, not just football and basketball, as valuable revenue-generating opportunities for the NCAA.

As the tournament headed into the semifinals, featuring matchups between Pittsburgh and Louisville, as well as Penn State and Nebraska, fans were eager to witness the intense competition on the court. However, the event was not without controversy, as San Jose State faced a national uproar surrounding the participation of transgender player Blaire Fleming.

The lawsuits filed by San Jose State volleyball player Brooke Slusser and others against the NCAA and the Mountain West Conference alleged that they were unaware of Fleming’s transgender status and were forced to compete alongside her. This controversy led to a series of forfeits and heightened security measures for the team throughout the season.

Despite the challenges, Colorado District Judge Kato Crews allowed Fleming to compete in the tournament, leading the San Jose State Spartans to the championship match. However, they were ultimately defeated by Colorado State, preventing them from advancing to the NCAA tournament.

Following the final match, head coach Todd Kress addressed the backlash and hate messages directed at the team, emphasizing the need for respect and understanding in the face of adversity. The tournament may have ended in disappointment for San Jose State, but it highlighted the resilience and determination of the athletes in the face of controversy.

Overall, the increased TV ratings and thrilling competition of the NCAA women’s volleyball tournament showcased the passion and dedication of student-athletes, while also shedding light on important issues of inclusivity and acceptance in sports. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, it serves as a reminder of the power of athletic competition to inspire and unite individuals from all backgrounds.