October 13, 2025
NCAA News
The NCAA is currently debating a major eligibility rule change that would allow five years to play five seasons, effectively eliminating traditional redshirting. This proposal has generated considerable discussion among coaches and athletic programs.
On the business side, the Big Ten Conference is nearing a decision on a $2.4 billion deal with a California pension investment fund.
In recruiting news, several high-profile commitments were announced, including Clemson landing four-star center Will Stevens for 2026 and Tennessee securing four-star power forward Manny Green. Meanwhile, Kentucky's Kam Williams thrilled fans at Big Blue Madness by draining a half-court shot that won a lucky fan $5,000.
The biggest news in college basketball today is the passing of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the beloved Loyola University Chicago icon, who died at age 106. Sister Jean became a national sensation during Loyola's remarkable 2018 NCAA tournament run and remained one of the most cherished figures in college basketball.
High School Basketball Highlights
The high school basketball scene is buzzing with recruiting activity. Notable commitments include Shay Stephens (Burlington Notre Dame) to Western Illinois and AJ Evans (Cedar Rapids Xavier) to James Madison. Several prospects are receiving Division I attention, including 7-foot Class of 2026 prospect Arafan Diane.
Conference realignment continues in Iowa, with the Hawkeye Ten Conference allowing three teams to leave while welcoming Carroll for the 2026 - 27 season.
Jeremy Lin Retires
Jeremy Lin's fame can be traced back to a remarkable period in 2012 when he played for the New York Knicks, which led to a phenomenon known as "Linsanity." This cultural moment wasn't just about basketball; it resonated across various dimensions of society and led to several interesting perspectives:
- Athletic Performance and Underdog Narrative - Lin, an Asian-American from Harvard, faced significant obstacles in his journey to the NBA, including being undrafted in 2010. When he got his chance to play, he exploded onto the scene, averaging over 20 points. His rise from benchwarmer to NBA star captured the imagination of fans, mirroring an archetypal underdog story that resonates with audiences in many contexts--think of "Rocky" or "The Pursuit of Happiness"
- Cultural Impact - "Linsanity" sparked conversations about race and representation in sports. As the first American of Taiwanese descent to play in the NBA, Lin's visibility challenged stereotypes and provided a new lens through which to view Asian talent in sports. Just as figures like Jackie Robinson broke racial barriers in baseball, Lin's story opened doors and conversations about diversity in the athletic community.
- Media and Social Media Influence - The explosive nature of Lin's fame was amplified by social media. The hashtag #Linsanity trended globally, and his games were covered extensively across different platforms. This era marked the beginning of how social media could influence a sports narrative, changing the way athletes interact with their fans and how they are perceived in popular culture.
- Inspirational Figure - Beyond sports, Lin became a symbol of resilience and faith. He openly discussed the role of his Christian faith in his life, leading to an emerging fan base that appreciated not just his athletic ability, but also his integrity.
- Post-NBA Journeys and Legacy - After his initial success, Lin's path was not without challenges as he moved to different teams, including the Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Charlotte Hornets. Despite playing for several franchises, he never quite recaptured the same level of fame but continued to influence younger players and advocate for social justice initiatives.
Conclusion
Jeremy Lin's story is a tapestry woven with threads of talent, racial identity, social media dynamics, and the spirit of perseverance. His fame transcended the basketball court, becoming a beacon for representation and diversity in a sports culture that is constantly evolving. Whether through inspiring an entire generation of athletes or sparking discussions about race and identity, Lin's legacy continues to resonate.