Bone didn’t provide ‘teachable moment’

Washington State men’s coach Ken Bone, your decision to allow your star guard (Klay Thompson) to continue playing basketball for the rest of the  season is a travesty. As the person responsible for setting the example for the importance of following team rules, you have failed. It is unfortunate that the pressure of winning basketball games in a major conference and advancing to the national tournament has become your priority. 

As the coach, your decisions for team violations should be in the best interest of the entire team. You must decide on appropriate sanctions that meet the standards of the infractions. Other rival coaches have chosen to take the high road and suspend their star players, one for the entire season and the other for the upcoming tournament. Your decision for a one-game suspension is not enough.

The player’s father called out his son on national radio. The father is trying to provide tough love and guidance for future moments when his son must choose between right and wrong. His father’s expectations are commendable and I am confident that this will be a teachable moment.

Mr. Bone, I wish you and your team success. I hope you will provide that teachable moment for your team in the future.

Douglas Day

Spokane