Courtside Talks: Watts' Basketball Comeback, NIL Changes in College Sports, and the Apple Cup Debate

In this episode of *Watts Up Wednesdays*, basketball legend Donald Watts shares his remarkable journey of returning to competitive basketball after suffering a stroke nine months earlier. Now playing in a B-division men's league, Watts opens up about the challenges he's faced in regaining his skills, particularly ball handling, and reflects on the emotional and spiritual benefits of being back on the court. He highlights the importance of perseverance and pushing personal limits in order to rediscover strengths. The conversation also explores the changing landscape of college athletics, specifically the role of general managers in managing NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals and athlete retention. Watts offers insights into how this shift is turning college sports into more franchise-like operations and discusses the potential benefits of a return to regional divisions to reduce costs for non-revenue sports. He also hints at exciting future announcements regarding his basketball programs. In addition to basketball, Watts shares his thoughts on attending the Apple Cup football game between the University of Washington and Washington State, noting the contrasting conditions of the two programs. He emphasizes the importance of preserving this historic rivalry, despite the changing dynamics of college football, such as Washington's move to the Big Ten. The episode rounds out with discussions on the Seattle Seahawks, Geno Smith's development, Tua Tagovailoa's concussion concerns, and the excitement surrounding the WNBA playoffs. Subscribe to Watts Up Wednesdays now! Links you may want to check out:  Check out and support by donating to The Watts Foundation at https://thewattsfoundation.org/ Check out everything about Watts Basketball at https://wattsbasketball.com/ Directly talk or ask Donald a question by calling (206) 467-1383 Leave Donald a question or send a message through his socials: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donaldwatts24 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wattsbball     Twitter: https://twitter.com/donaldwatts24 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-watts If you want to know more about Watts Basketball, give us a like or follow on your fav social platform: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wattsbball/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/WattsBBall Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wattsbball/   Subscribe to this podcast and automatically receive your episodes!