I actually agree with u in this one, until I hear them say they didnβt come because of a signing bonus I just wonβt believe it.
What would any player have to gain by saying, "yeah, I just here for the money". NIL now gets rolled in the standard statements athletes about this being the right place for me..blah, blah, blah.
And again, the moralist keep making this false distinction- you either choose the school for good ole fashioned reasons or the evil temptation of NIL $. NIL is another factor that now enters into the decision making process for recruits For HS recruits, it was more the promise if future NIL (and the system in place to help them) whereas now I believe it can be a direct too for high schoolers.
But, imagine you are looking at different job prospects -- three places are interested in you. Option 1 pays the best, by a decent margin, but for various reasons you don't think you would be happy there. Option 2 feels homey and it seems like the best fit but plays less than 1. Option 3 - is pretty good on the fit and culture. It may not be quite as good as 2 but it has a better starting salary and a much higher earning potential over time.
Which option do you choose. I am betting most people for 2.
If it just about the $, you would go for 1 but people can factor in other quality of life considerations without being oblivious to $.
I appears that the LVs have often been the equivalent of the #2 for many close but not quite recruits
I will add that there is another disadvantage that faces the LVs. Kellie and staff have to sell the idea that you can help get us to the final four, versus saying we have been there and you can get us to a championship.
Right now, Dawn has the championship and the NIL edge.
But, it has to fight when you are climbing uphill against the wind on both fronts.