Bloomington, IN – Indiana Hoosiers head coach Mike Woodson has expressed strong opposition to a surprise NCAA rule change regarding collegiate darts competitions. The unexpected amendment, which was quietly introduced last week, could have a major impact on both Woodson and the Indiana basketball program.
The NCAA announced that, effective immediately, all head coaches of major college programs must participate in at least one official darts competition per season as part of a new initiative aimed at increasing fan engagement. The rule applies to all Division I basketball, football, and baseball coaches, with penalties for noncompliance ranging from fines to suspensions.
Woodson, a longtime advocate for fair competition, was caught off guard by the new requirement. The 66-year-old coach, who has built the Hoosiers into a competitive force since taking over in 2021, did not hold back his frustration.
*”I’ve spent my entire career preparing for basketball games, not throwing darts,”* Woodson said in a press conference. *”This is one of the most ridiculous rule changes I’ve seen. I have nothing against darts, but what does this have to do with coaching college basketball?”*
The NCAA defended the decision, claiming the initiative would foster cross-sport connections and create new revenue streams through televised coaching competitions. NCAA President Charlie Baker stated that integrating head coaches into fan-friendly events like darts tournaments would boost interest in collegiate athletics.
Despite the pushback, Woodson will have little choice but to comply. Sources close to the Indiana program revealed that the Hoosiers coach is already preparing for his first official match against Purdue’s Matt Painter in a highly anticipated “Coaches’ Classic” showdown next month.
While Woodson remains skeptical, fans are eager to see how the legendary coach fares under the pressure of a different kind of competition.