Academic support services for college basketball programs: A case study of Indiana University during coach Bob Knight's tenure (1972-present)

This study showcases something good happening in the world of college basketball--student-athletes graduating at a phenomenally high rate. This is a study of success at one of a small group of Division I basketball programs that has had a tradition of winning games while academically succeeding at the same time.;The first chapter, Genesis of the Study, focuses on the exploitation and abuse of student-athletes as well as the difficulties of being involved in highly competitive athletic programs and maintaining academic success. Particular attention is paid to the plight of the Black athlete in this national tragedy of sports. This chapter also deals with the reasons for selecting Indiana University and problems that arose involving access to the people and records. It also examines the methodology employed to conduct this research.;Chapter II, I.U. Record and Comparison, is a compilation of SAT scores, grade point averages, high school rank, racial breakdown, and graduation percentage of several comparison groups. The Indiana University basketball players are compared to I.U.- Bloomington cohorts, NCAA Division I basketball and football players, and a national high school survey. The success of Coach Knight's program is never more apparent than when these numbers are viewed with other similar programs. Finally, the numbers are translated into human beings and the graduated athletes are carefully examined.;The third and fourth chapters deal with the people that drive the programs. These main actors and their accompanying casts are viewed through their associates and their actions. The author tries to pin point "why these people are driven to such interest and excellence?".;Chapter V, Case Study of Jay Edwards, focuses on the academic support process by looking at a student athlete. The conclusion reflectively summarizes the I.U. program. Several implications involving leadership and program are explored.