|
 |   |
|
EVENTS CENTERS Fantasy Central Inside Game Video Plus Statitudes Your Turn Message Boards Email Newsletters Golf Guide Cities 
CNNSI.com GROUP
COMMERCE
|  |
Reactions: Women dunking Posted: Wednesday December 06, 2000 1:46 PM
Tennessee's Michelle Snow became the first woman to dunk in a game since 1994 when she performed the feat on November 25 in a game against Illinois. CNNSI.com users were asked what impact her slam would have on the women's game and if dunks would be positive or negative for the women's game. A sample of the responses we received follows: I was there to see Michelle Snow slam-dunk the ball in Maui and all I can say is that it was an experience I'll never forget. I don't see there being a problem with women dunking the ball as long as they are able to do it. I know that it made the game much more exciting and enjoyable. Totally Awesome!
What we all must remember is that a dunk is just two points at any level. Putting emphasis on a very small facet of a very involved game is unjust and not at all practical. Just because a particular person can dunk, doesn't mean that they are relatively good. Not taking away from Ms. Snow's feat, it is barely another two points up on the scoreboard.
As long as dunks remain rare in the women's game, I have no objection. It's not as exciting if it happens ten times a game. I would like the women's game to remain a team game with passing and movement, where smaller players can still contribute. I'm sure my 5'2" height has nothing to do with my opinion...
Women's basketball is much better off without all the hoopla surrounding dunks. If it comes as part of the game, like finishing off a fast break, then it's fine. Otherwise it could destroy the women's game like it's done to the men's game. I played college ball and now I don't even watch the men on TV. I only watch the women's games. It's much purer. Less selfish. More team orientated.
A dunk or two is a neat novelty but the best part about women's basketball is the purity of the game. It requires plays, strategy and teamwork. The slam'n, jam'n play of the men's teams promotes individuality and showboating. I'd much rather see the women spend no time on trying to make themselves dunk and all their time on speed, endurance, smart game play and a stronger sense of team. Don't encourage the dunk, encourage the play!
When men first started dunking, it was exciting. Part of the reason it was exciting was that not everybody could do it. I predict that dunking in the women's game will be exciting and really get the crowd into it for about the next 15 years. Then, when improved weight training and technique have had an impact, it will be just as ho-hum as in the men's game.
Without a doubt, dunking adds an element of excitement to the game of basketball. I was as happy as any other person would be when Snow slammed it down. However, I think that dunking will never be as common place in the women's game as it in is the men's. It has nothing to do with ability. It has everything to do with the way women think. Women are not as "showy" as men in that way. We don't have to jump to great heights and prove that we can do something to feel a sense of accomplishment. We'd rather display a flashy pass (as long as it reaches its target) or a behind the back lay-up. It's just different for women. No doubt, the dunk will be seen again this season and in the seasons to come, but will it happen in every game? Never. Should it happen in every game? It's not necessary. The woman's game is still exciting and worth watching. And I'd choose it over the men's game any day.
With the amount of media attention given to her dunk, the impact to the women's game has to be a tremendous one. Nothing is better for the game than exposure. This dunk has definitely drawn that. Will dunking become more prevalent for women? I think so in time. Women are becoming stronger through better weight training, better coaching and a stronger desire to achieve. Unlike the men's game, I believe the basic fundamentals of the women's game will continue to be emphasized, which will keep the game pure. But, as Pat (Summitt) says, offense sells tickets and defense wins games and at Tennessee, at least, you can be assured that she will not allow the dunk to have a negative impact on the Lady Vols' game.
Dunking is a great part of the game of basketball. The more women that can dunk should! It is great entertainment instead of just normal shots being taken. I feel it will only increase the number of fans!
Dunking will definitely enhance public relations for women's basketball. The dunk seems to be that ultimate point of satisfaction that a player gets to when playing the game. It gets a crowd off their feet. I know I dream of be able to dunk a basketball. But, gravity, age, and of course a lack of spring in this 6'3" body tends to keep me a few inches closer to the floor than the sky. To see a woman dunk the ball, for now will add a lot of excitement to all levels of women's basketball.
|
