<ul class="summary-list"><li>Brooklyn Nets star <keyword id="688692" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Kyrie-Irving">Kyrie Irving</keyword> has publicly objected to the <keyword id="6361805" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="NBA">NBA</keyword>'s restart plan in response to the nationwide <keyword id="112438" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="social-justice">social justice</keyword> movements following <keyword id="9295731" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="george-floyd">George Floyd</keyword>'s death.</li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/ShamsCharania/status/1271620847963451393">The point guard reportedly said</a> he is "willing to give up everything" for social justice reform during a phone call with other NBA players.</li><li>Four-time <keyword id="152792" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="WNBA">WNBA</keyword> champion <keyword id="3513004" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Maya-Moore">Maya Moore</keyword> has already followed through on Irving's sentiments by taking off the last two seasons to help exonerate a prisoner she believes was wrongly convicted.</li><li>If he's serious about devoting his life to social justice causes, Irving could follow the 2014 WNBA MVP's lead in using her platform to exact change.</li></ul><p>Kyrie Irving is passionate about social justice reform.</p><p>During a phone call with fellow NBA players on Friday, the Brooklyn Nets point guard objected to the NBA's restart plan in response to the nationwide social justice movements following George Floyd's death. The six-time NBA All-Star reportedly said he's "willing to give up everything" in order to fight on behalf of marginalized people and communities.</p><p>That may seem like a daunting mission. But fortunately for Irving, WNBA superstar Maya Moore has already charted a path for athletes looking to use their platforms to exact societal change.</p><p>Moore — a four-time WNBA champion and six-time WNBA All-Star — has already opted out of one season to commit all of her time to fight for criminal justice reform. Back in January, the 2014 league MVP committed to missing a second consecutive campaign with the Minnesota Lynx to continue her efforts. She won't participate in the league's recently announced plans for the 2020 season.</p><h2>During the prime of her career, Moore stepped out of the spotlight to help fight for a man's freedom</h2><p><div type="image" title="maya moore" height="1125" width="1500" msid="76428411" hostid="261"></div></p><p>For more than a year, Moore devoted her energy to exonerating a prisoner she believed was wrongly convicted of burglary and assault, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/22/sports/basketball/maya-moore-jonathan-irons.html">reporting from The New York Times</a>. At 16 years old, Jonathan Irons was accused of burglarizing a home in the suburbs of St. Louis, Missouri, and assaulting the homeowner with a gun.</p><p>Though the prosecution was based entirely on eyewitness testimony — without corroborating witnesses, fingerprints, footprints, DNA, or blood evidence, according to Irons' attorneys — the then-teenager was convicted by an all-white jury and sentenced to 50 years in prison.</p><p><div type="image" title="maya m" height="3500" width="2466" msid="76428413" hostid="261"></div></p><p>When Moore met Irons during a 2017 visit to the Jefferson City Correctional Center in her hometown, Irons was 19 years into his sentence. The WNBA, Team USA, and former UConn Huskies superstar was immediately drawn to his story — so much so, in fact, that she gave up her <keyword id="36237" type="SPORT" weightage="60" keywordseo="basketball">basketball</keyword> career to fight on his behalf.</p><p>In 2019, Moore walked away from the hardwood to pursue this passion. From then on, Moore advocated for Irons' appeal by helping to pay for his defense team and regularly showing up at court in-person to show her support, per The Times. And with her decision not to return for the 2020 season, the two-time Olympic gold medalist also committed to missing out on the upcoming summer games in Tokyo.</p><p>"The dark reality is that there are so many people wrongfully imprisoned," <a href="https://www.latimes.com/sports/story/2020-03-14/wnba-maya-moore-criminal-justice-reform-jonathan-irons">Moore told the Los Angeles Times</a>. "I decided that it was time for me to use my voice and the resources that I had to publicly help Jonathan's cause and draw attention to criminal justice reform."</p><p>"I got to know the facts of his case and over the years learned more and more," she added. "When I decided to step away from the game, I knew that would provide me with more time to work on the case."</p><h2>Moore's commitment to Irons' cause paid off</h2><p>In March, Cole County Circuit Judge Daniel Green <a href="https://www.insider.com/jonathan-irons-case-overturned-wbna-maya-moore-advocated-for-him-2020-3">overturned Irons' conviction</a> citing exculpatory evidence that he said was withheld during Irons' initial trial.</p><p>After 23 years in prison, Irons is one step closer to becoming a free man.</p><p>Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt has since appealed Green's decision, arguing that the judge's characterization of some evidence as "newly discovered" was inaccurate.</p><p>Irons will once again battle the state in pursuit of his liberation, and a series of courts will have to weigh in on the now-40-year-old's future, <a href="https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/local/jonathan-irons-case-appeal-advocated-wnba-maya-moore/63-7c125c4a-db9e-4659-853d-700f2bbc442a">according to KSDK</a>. Should Irons successfully navigate the system, the case could eventually return to St. Charles County's prosecutor's office, where St. Charles Prosecutor Tim Lohmar would have a choice to retry Irons or dismiss the case once and for all.</p><p>"If it does come back to us, DNA evidence, or a lack thereof, will play heavily in our decision," Lohmar said, per KSDK. "There was no DNA evidence in the original case."</p><p><div type="image" title="mm" height="1025" width="1367" msid="76428417" hostid="261"></div></p><p>Even though Irons and Moore have yet to achieve their ultimate goal — securing Irons' freedom — it's worth noting that Moore's status and platform have undoubtedly helped further the accused's case. As the Los Angeles Times' LZ Granderson writes, "Had Moore not left the WNBA and brought national attention to the case by getting involved, there is a good chance that Irons' sentence does not get overturned."</p><p><div type="image" title="maya" height="1363" width="1817" msid="76428419" hostid="261"></div></p><p>That would have all but guaranteed Irons' next 27 years would be spent behind bars.</p><p>"She saved my life," Irons told <a href="https://www.cbssports.com/wnba/news/minnesota-lynx-star-maya-moore-helps-overturn-conviction-for-innocent-missouri-man/">CBS Sports</a>. "I would not have had this chance if not for her and her wonderful family."</p><p>When it comes to fighting for social and criminal justice reform, Moore's work through <a href="https://winwithjustice.org/">Win With Justice</a> can serve as a model for all, but especially for high-profile athletes who want to devote their lives to making progress in these realms. </p><h2>If he's sincerely passionate about societal change, Irving can follow Moore's lead</h2><p>Irving is reportedly leading a movement of players who are objecting to the restart of the 2020 NBA season. <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29315648/new-nba-coalition-voicing-concerns-players">According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski and Malika Andrews</a>, the group is calling for "the investment of resources and ideas of all league constituencies — from the commissioner's office, ownership level, management, and the players' association — in social justice reform."</p><p><div type="image" title="Kyrie Irving" height="1821" width="2429" msid="76428420" hostid="261"></div></p><p>"We are combating the issues that matter most: We will not accept the racial injustices that continue to be ignored in our communities," Irving and his coalition said in a statement to ESPN. "We will not be kept in the dark when it comes to our health and well-being. And we will not ignore the financial motivations/expectations that have prevented us historically from making sound decisions."</p><p>"This is not about individual players, athletes or entertainers," they added. "This is about our group of strong men and women uniting for change. We have our respective fields, however, we will not just shut up and play to distract us from what this whole system has been about: Use and Abuse."</p><p>Some, including retired NBA champion and current ESPN commentator Kendrick Perkins, have called on Irving to follow through on his statements if he truly believes there's work to be done.<div type="image" title="kendrick perkins okc thunder 2011" height="842" width="1123" msid="76428424" hostid="261"></div></p><p>"I read another statement that Kyrie made saying he's willing to give it up all," Perkins said on "The Jump." "Don't be willing. This ain't the time to be willing. Do it."</p><p>"No, Maya Moore, she wasn't willing. She did it," Perkins added. "She walked away from the game of basketball and took this on full time. So, Kyrie, this ain't the time to be talking about, 'Oh I'm willing to do it.' No, if you're gonna make a stance, do it or don't talk about it."</p><h2>Irving 'understands this moment,' according to a former NBA player who has recently found himself at forefront of the Black Lives Matter movement</h2><p><div type="image" title="kyrie" height="1667" width="2223" msid="76428433" hostid="261"></div></p><p>The crafty Nets star has been in close contact with 17-year NBA veteran Stephen Jackson in recent weeks. Jackson has become an outspoken advocate for police and criminal justice reform after Floyd, a childhood friend of his, suffocated to death when former Minneapolis police officers kneeled on his throat for more than eight minutes.</p><p>Irving has gotten emotional in their conversations, and Jackson says he's "passionate about" the issues at stake in this particular cultural movement.</p><p>"I just think he understands this moment," Jackson said of Irving during a conversation with Matt Barnes. "You know what I'm saying? And he's just like me. I don't have all the answers, you know what I'm saying? And he's speaking off heart, he's speaking off passion."</p><p>"He done called me crying because he literally knows that I'm putting in every single day," he added.</p><p>The coalition to push back against a 2020 NBA restart that Irving started has gained momentum in recent days. Los Angeles Lakers stars Avery Bradley and Dwight Howard have joined the call for the league to defer its plans in respect to the movement against police brutality, while <a href="https://www.netsdaily.com/2020/6/14/21290734/debate-engendered-by-kyrie-irving-has-nba-players-taking-sides-on-return-to-play">Jackson</a> and injured <a href="https://sports.yahoo.com/john-wall-agrees-kyrie-irving-164457551.html">Washington Wizards star John Wall</a> both have said they agree with their stance.</p><h2>Whether or not Irving is truly ready to walk away from the game of basketball, he can still make a huge impact in the fight against injustice</h2><p>Irving is one of the most popular — and talented — players in the NBA, so his star power would indubitably cast a spotlight on any cause to which he allots his time and energy. Should he choose to follow in Moore's footsteps by devoting his life to social justice reform, it would undoubtedly further the cause significantly.</p><p><div type="image" title="Kyrie Irving and Aaron Rodgers" height="899" width="1198" msid="76428434" hostid="261"></div></p><p>But walking away from a <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/nba/brooklyn-nets/kyrie-irving-8051/">$136,490,600 contract</a> and the game he's played throughout his life is no small feat, and there's little doubt that Irving can exact change while continuing to play. Who says he has to choose?</p><p>Many athletes have been instrumental to social causes while continuing to compete in their respective <keyword id="6356028" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="sports">sports</keyword>. LeBron James opened the "I Promise School," a public elementary school, for at-risk children in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, back in 2018. Michael Jordan and the Jordan Brand recently donated $100 million to organizations devoted to racial justice.</p><p>Megan Rapinoe has been a staunch advocate for marginalized communities throughout her National Women's Soccer League and US Women's National Team careers. And even though he wasn't given the opportunity to, Colin Kaepernick — arguably the most visible athlete-advocate of this generation — wanted to continue playing in the NFL while kneeling in protest of police brutality.</p><p><div type="image" title="colin kaepernick" height="1235" width="1647" msid="76428435" hostid="261"></div></p><p>Even Moore herself recognizes that social reform doesn't always have to be an all-or-nothing effort.</p><p>"We all have to make our own decisions with the choices that are in front of us," she told the Los Angeles Times. "I don't think I'm creating a model to follow, I just made a decision that was best for me."</p><p>"There is something everyone from every walk of life can do to be a part of justice," she added. "If you feel the need to do some extreme things, then do it. But if you can find other ways to engage in this reconciliation process, by all means do that because there are so many ways to help."</p><p><div type="image" title="kyrie irving.JPG" height="1667" width="2223" msid="76428502" hostid="261"></div></p><p>Still, Irving may very well "feel the need to do some extreme things." After all, he's said he's "willing to give up everything" to help the social causes he believes in.</p><p>Whether or not he'll choose to do so remains to be seen. But for now, he's speaking up to demand change within the NBA — and he's certainly being heard.</p><ul class="read-more-links"><li>Read more:</li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/video-coco-gauff-speech-local-peaceful-protest-calls-for-action-2020-6">Coco Gauff delivered an impassioned speech at her local Black Lives Matter peaceful protest: 'If you are choosing silence, you are choosing the side of the oppressor'</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/video-lebron-james-slams-laura-ingraham-drew-brees-comments-2020-6">LeBron James blasts Fox News host Laura Ingraham for double-standard on which athletes she believes can speak out on politics</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/seahawks-coach-pete-carroll-regrets-not-signing-colin-kaepernick-2020-6">Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll says he regrets not signing Colin Kaepernick in 2017</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/nwsl-first-professional-us-contact-sports-league-return-not-mls-2020-6">Sorry, MLS, the NWSL is actually the first professional contact sports league to return in the US</a></li></ul>

Maya Moore already paved the way for athletes like Kyrie Irving who are 'willing to give up everything' for social justice reform

<p><div class="image-container float_right" style="width:402px"><div class="image"><img src="http://static6.businessinsider.com/image/513f7d9269bedd7057000003-620-465/big-east-tournamen.jpg?maxX=402&amp;maxY=301" border="0" alt="big east tournament" width="402" height="301" /></div><p class="source">Chris Trotman/Getty Images</p></div>With eight teams expected to make the <a href="http://www.tiqiq.com/ncaa/ncaa-mens-basketball-tournament-tickets" target="_blank">NCAA Tournament</a> field, the Big East has proven this season that it is still a conference to be reckoned with. As the final Big East Conference Tournament tiped off yesterday, top seeds and regional preferences for the NCAA tournament are most certainly on the line yet again for the teams of this power conference.</p>
<p>Whether it is nostalgia for the last Big East tourney ever, or just the intrigue of this year’s matchups, <a href="http://www.tiqiq.com/ncaa/big-east-tournament-tickets" target="_blank">Big East Tournament tickets</a> check in at a three-year high of $243 dollars according to <keyword id="1757343" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="TiqIQ">TiqIQ</keyword>. This reflects a 17% rise over last year’s average ticket price of $207 dollars. In 2011, the <keyword id="1756998" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="Big-East-Tournament">Big East Tournament</keyword> average ticket price was in at $220 dollars, as tournament most outstanding player Kemba Walker led the University of Connecticut to a conference championship. Kemba and the Huskies would not look back from their Big East conquest, as they marched all the way to cut down the nets on a historic run that saw them win 11 consecutive elimination games.</p>
<p>But while the average conference tournament ticket price may be at a three-year high, prices for later rounds reflect a decline for the second consecutive year. This may be due partly to the parity of this year’s tournament, with no team’s fan base so confident as of yet to secure tickets to the semis or finals.</p>
<ul>
<li>·       Semifinals Average: $354 (-20% from 2011, -5% from 2012)</li>
<li>·       Semifinals Get-in: $100</li>
<li>·       Finals Average: $201 (-19% since 2011, -1% from 2012)</li>
<li>·       Finals Get-in: $70</li>
</ul>
<p>The Big East Conference Tournament has historically been one of the most exciting conference tournaments in NCAA basketball, with no shortage of history. Perhaps the most underrated team in the country, the Georgetown Hoyas sit in the one seed for this year’s tournament. Although the Hoyas have experienced a good deal of success in the conference tournament in the past few seasons, they are perhaps best remembered for an 11-season conference championship game appearance drought following their loss in the 1996 finals, when eventual first overall pick Allen Iverson led them into Ray Allen’s UConn Huskies in one of the most memorable conference championship games of all time.</p>
<p>Facing a 13-point deficit in the final four minutes, the Huskies put together a 12-0 run to cut into the Hoyas lead. Iverson and Allen, two of the preeminent scorers in college basketball that season, were playing ferocious defense on each other all night. Allen held Iverson to just 13 points on 4 of 15 shooting, while Iverson had kept Allen in check to the tune of 15 points on 4 of 19 shooting up until the very final few seconds.</p>
<p>Trailing by two, Allen sliced across the top of the key to the right elbow and leaned into Iverson. Looking for a foul but hearing no whistle, Allen flipped up a contorted right handed floater that would make Cirque Du Soleil look like child’s play. As the clock hit 13 seconds, the ball caught iron and dropped through to give UConn a 75-74 lead. The score would hold, as Iverson launched a desperate free throw line fade away that clanked off the rim, and UConn truly announced their presence as one of the marquee programs in the country. Georgetown looks to have better luck this season, as UConn sits at home.</p>
<p>Another underrated team in this year’s tournament is the 5-seed Syracuse Orange. Ranked top 10 for much of the season, the Orange have struggled of late and find themselves with just a single bye as opposed to the sought-after double bye. Back in 2009 however, the Orange rode a single by from the 6-seed all the way to the conference championship game, on the heels of the second longest game in NCAA history when they took UConn to a whopping six overtimes before pulling away, 127-117.</p>
<p>And then of course, there are the two seed Louisville Cardinals. Led by star point guard Peyton Siva, last season’s most outstanding player of the tournament, Louisville looks to defend their conference crown won from the seven seed last season.</p>
<p>Joining current conference favorites, Louisville, with double byes into the conference tournament semis are Georgetown, Pittsburgh and Marquette. While all four teams are expected to obtain top five seeds in their respective regions come Selection Sunday, it appears that Louisville and Georgetown have the inside track to a quite favorable venue draw in their respective regions according to ESPN.com’s current Bracketology predictions.</p>
<p>Although Louisville is currently slated for the one seed in the South region and will likely play the first two rounds in Lexington, KY, it is actually Georgetown that may end up in the more beneficial bracket. If Georgetown lives up to expectations in the conference tourney, they can be well expected to snag the two seed in the Midwest region. This would mean that they would play their first two games in nearby Philadelphia, before traveling home to Washington D.C. for the regionals.</p>
<div>
<p>Interestingly enough, Hoya fans may be better served by holding off on Big East Conference Tournament tickets, and simply waiting for the big dance. Philadelphia 2<sup>nd</sup>/3<sup>rd</sup> round average ticket prices check in at $243, markedly lower than historic conference semifinal prices, and closer in proximity to Georgetown’s campus than <a href="http://www.tiqiq.com/venues/madison-square-garden-tickets" target="_blank">Madison Square Garden</a> where the Big East Tournament is held. If the Hoyas are lucky enough to conquer Philadelphia and head back home to D.C., fans can stay home and score tickets to the DC regional for an average price of $394 dollars.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p>If the stars align for the Hoyas as well as the Bracketologists currently predict, they may very well make a nice sleeper pick to ride a modified home court advantage all the way to the <a href="http://www.tiqiq.com/ncaa/final-four-tickets" target="_blank">Final Four</a>.</p>
<p> </p>
</div>

Big East Tournament Tickets Are At A Three-Year High

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5683e11fc08a8037018b5c69-2379-1784/gettyimages-497268380.jpg" alt="Chip Kelly" data-mce-source="Alex Goodlett/Getty Images" /><p class="source"><span>Alex Goodlett/Getty Images</span></p><p class="caption">Chip Kelly.</p></div><p></p></div></div>Well, that was unexpected!</p><p>The Philadelphia Eagles <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/chip-kelly-fired-by-the-philadelphia-eagles-2015-12">abruptly fired head coach Chip Kelly</a> on Tuesday evening after he posted a disappointing 6-9 record in his third year with the team. He won't even get a chance to finish the season, as the Eagles still have one game left. </p><p>Eagles owner Jeff Lurie was thought of as a patient man, so this news is shocking. Almost all beat reporters believed Kelly would be back next year. </p><p>Kelly had posted a 26-21 record as a head coach, which is pretty good. </p><p>So why did Lurie fire him? Philadelphia-based ESPN NFL reporter Sal Paolantonio says Lurie wanted to scale back Kelly's control over the team's personnel. Kelly wasn't keen on that, and therefore Lurie decided to can him.</p><p>Fox Sports reporter Jay Glazer disputes this characterization of events. He says Lurie just called Kelly into his office and canned him. There was no negotiation, no discussion. Glazer, for what it's worth, talked to Kelly on Tuesday night. </p><p>Kelly got full authority over the team last year, and he completely revamped the roster. He shipped out star player LeSean McCoy. He let offensive lineman Evan Mathis walk. He failed to pay up to re-sign wide receiver Jeremy Maclin. A year prior he cut star receiver DeSean Jackson.</p><p>Kelly did all of this because he believes "culture beats scheme." That's his way of saying that if you have the right people on your team working together, you will be a better group. McCoy and Jackson didn't fit Kelly's vision for his team.</p><p>Kelly's idea is true to an extent. But you also need talent. Kelly failed to restock his team with great talent. </p><p>But, Kelly is not stupid. He made rookie mistakes as a GM for the first time, and odds are he would have corrected his mistakes this offseason. It's bizarre to give him full control, and then only give him 1 year with that control. Lurie looks like a reactionary here.</p><p>So, why did Lurie <em>really</em> fire Kelly? I have a theory.</p><p>I have no inside information. I am just another fan. I read as much as possible about the Eagles, I watch every snap, and listen to a lot of talk radio about the team. </p><p>Here's my theory: Kelly was an arrogant, inflexible man who failed to relate to players, and failed to manage up to Lurie. </p><h2>A failure to adapt</h2><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5683e260c08a80d7118b5b26-1482-1112/chip kelly university oregon ducks football.jpg" alt="Chip Kelly University Oregon Ducks Football" data-mce-source="REUTERS/Marcus Donner" data-mce-caption="Then-Oregon Ducks head coach Chip Kelly is seen after his team defeated the Washington Huskies 34-17 in their NCAA football game in Seattle, Washington, November 5, 2011." /><p class="source"><span>REUTERS/Marcus Donner</span></p><p class="caption">Kelly, then the coach of the Oregon Ducks, after his team defeated the Washington Huskies 34-17 in Seattle on November 5, 2011.</p></div><p></p></div></div>When Kelly joined the Eagles three years ago, he was supposed to be a genius who revolutionized the NFL. He came from Oregon where he only lost 7 games over four years. He almost won a national title. </p><p>He brought an unconventional attitude to the NFL. He plays blaring music at his practices. He monitors his players' sleep. He makes custom smoothies for everyone. And, above all, <a href="http://www.phillymag.com/birds247/2015/11/24/eagles-wake-up-call-slow-down-chip/">he operates at a high speed</a>.</p><p>The Eagles run more plays in less time than anyone else. Kelly's attitude: The more plays you run on offense, the more chances you have to score. This is supposed to put rivals' defense on its heels, wearing them out, leading to more scores.</p><p>On paper, that makes sense. But, it only makes sense when you have a good offense that can score. The Eagles have a terrible offense that gets off the field quickly without putting up any points. As a result, the opposite happens. The Eagles' defense gets back on field quickly, which leads to the defense getting tired and then torched by rivals. </p><p>A genius coach would adapt to the reality of his players. He would adjust his scheme. When it's not working - and it's not working - it's time to try something different. </p><p>Kelly has not changed. He's doing pretty much the exact same things week after week. </p><h2>Failing to manage up</h2><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5683e2c7c08a80e01b8b5a83-4744-3264/ap_1110300110300.jpg" alt="Jeff Lurie Eagles owner" data-mce-source="AP" /><p class="source"><span>AP</span></p></div><p></p></div></div>No matter how much power you have, you almost always have a boss. And, you always have to be able to communicate with your boss to make sure they're comfortable with what you're doing. </p><p>It's pretty apparent that Kelly failed to make Lurie comfortable with his decisions. If he had a good relationship with Lurie, he would have gotten another year. Or at least one more game. </p><p>If I was Lurie, I would have been checking in with Kelly periodically throughout the season to get his perspective on why things weren't working. If Kelly gave me logical answers and promised to adapt, then I would have given him more time. But, if Kelly was gruff and dismissive, I would have shown him the door.</p><p>I have no idea which way it went, but my guess is that it was the latter.  </p><p>Beyond that, we need to remember that Lurie is running a business. </p><p>Here's a somewhat goofy, but important thought experiment: If an Eagles fan were to go to a store tomorrow and buy an Eagles' player's jersey, who would it be? DeMarco Murray, the high-priced running back who can barely gain any yards? Nope. Sam Bradford, the high-priced quarterback that might not be on the team next year? Nope. Fletcher Cox, the talented defensive lineman? Maybe, but defensive linemen rarely sell jerseys. The only person I can think of is Jordan Matthews, who is a talented slot receiver. But, slot receivers aren't stars.</p><p>This is a problem if you are an owner. Kelly cleared the team of marquee names. There is no star to sell to the fan base. Just a bunch of so-so players. </p><p>Even worse, Kelly was losing winnable games at home and the fans were leaving early. That's not good for ticket sales, or general enthusiasm for the product on the field. </p><h2>Turning off the fans</h2><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/56002c7e9dd7cc24008bbd0a-2720-1813/gettyimages-488205622.jpg" alt="Chip Kelly and Sam Bradford" data-mce-source="Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images" /><p class="source"><span>Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images</span></p></div><p></p></div></div>Equally problematic, Kelly was gruff and arrogant in press conferences. </p><p>In a recent conference with reporters, Kelly said, "<span>I'm not the general manager ... I don't run our personnel department." </span></p><p><span>Except, in January the Eagles put out <a href="http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/article-1/Lurie-Announces-Structural-Change/11b587d7-132f-4f9b-9984-9c361f687675">a press release</a> that said, "<span>Head coach Chip Kelly will now oversee the player personnel department."</span></span></p><p><span><span>So, he <em>does </em>run the personnel department, contrary to what he was trying to tell reporters. </span></span></p><p><span><span>Interactions with the press are how a coach speaks to the fan base. Kelly was condescending to the press, which didn't translate well to the Philadelphia fan base, which is an intelligent, engaged community. (The Eagles mean a lot to Philly.)</span></span></p><p><span><span>Kelly could have been a little more outgoing, a little bit kinder, and he could have won over more people in the press, and therefore more of the fans. There are still a lot of people in Philadelphia that support Kelly, but he did enough to turn off the fan base that Lurie felt justified in canning him.</span></span></p><p><span><span>So, that's that. Kelly is out, the Eagles have less talent on their roster, and now they have to find a new head coach. </span></span></p><p><span><span>If you're a Philly fan, this is all sort of depressing. As messy as 2015 was, Kelly brought an electricity to each game that was fun to watch. No matter who comes in next, it's going to be a lot more boring.</span></span></p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/obama-sunk-an-awesome-golf-shot-2015-12">President Obama sunk an awesome golf shot on vacation</a></h3>        <div>            <div>    <script src="http://player.ooyala.com/v3/6e12e8b3387a44daacfb73afba25a76e"></script>    <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="1qY2dveTrsn1Uz7xHUGjnzJZMjwGJC50" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div>    <script>    if (typeof RunFunctions === 'undefined') { var RunFunctions = []; }     RunFunctions.push(function()    {         var ooyalapopvideo = OO.Player.create('ooyalaplayer_popvideo', '1qY2dveTrsn1Uz7xHUGjnzJZMjwGJC50',{ autoplay: 'false' });     });    </script>    <noscript><div>Please enable Javascript to watch this video</div></noscript></div>        </div>        <script>(function() { function createPlayer() { OO.ready(function() { RunFunctions.forEach(function(ooyalaFunction) { ooyalaFunction(); }); RunFunctions = [];}); } createPlayer(); }()); </script>    </div>

Why the Eagles fired Chip Kelly

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container float_right"><div class="image"><img src="http://static6.businessinsider.com/image/52a5e88e69bedd6071312cef-1200-900/carmelo-anthony-2-1.jpg?maxX=480" border="0" alt="carmelo anthony " width="480" /><p class="source"><span>Craig Jones/Getty Images</span></p><p class="caption">Former Syracuse star Carmelo Anthony has a $21 million salary.</p></div><p></p></div>It's every young basketball player's dream to play for a big-time college program and make big-time dollars in the NBA. Of course, there are many different routes one can take to make that dream a reality. Do you want to play for a Hall of Fame coach? <br /><br />Are stellar facilities a must-have? Will a deep NCAA tournament run get you the exposure you need? As you can see, there are a number of factors players need to take into account before selecting where they'll play collegiate ball.</p>
<p>To try and help determine which college program pumps out the most NBA-ready players, we decided to run some numbers using one always-important statistic - salary. Below, you'll find the top 20 schools whose alumni currently make the most money in the league for 2013-2014, according to ESPN's data. You may not be surprised to see which school is sitting at No. 1.</p>
<p><strong>20. LSU: $23,534,293 - 5 players</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">The Tigers don't boast any true NBA superstars at the moment, but they do have a number of solid veterans who will combine to make over $23 million this season. Kings guard Marcus Thornton leads the way, making just over $8 million this season, followed by serviceable power forwards Brandon Bass and Glen Davis. Anthony Randolph and Garrett Temple round out LSU's list.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>19. Arkansas: $24,326,342 - 4 players</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Sometimes it only takes one, and in Arkansas' case, that 'one' is Brooklyn Net Joe Johnson, who's albatross of a contract made him considered one of the most untradeable players in the NBA-until Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov decided that he really wanted to win, and acquired Johnson from the Atlanta Hawks. Johnson makes $21,466,718 this season, while the other three Razorbacks on this list - Ronnie Brewer, Patrick Beverley, and Jannero Pargo - make under $3 million combined.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>18. Michigan State: $26,265,990 - 4 players</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Zach Randolph is the only legitimate superstar Spartan still in the NBA, and the salaries show that: he pulled in over $18 million for his post presence. Once-high-flying guard Jason Richardson is still cashing in over $6 million this season, while Alan Anderson and Draymond Green are making just under $1 million each.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>17. Stanford: $26,848,167 - 3 players</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">The bulk of Stanford's paychecks come from one family; star Nets center Brook Lopez had a break-out season last year and will make $14,693,906 for his efforts, while his brother Robin will haul in just under $6 million himself as a Portland Trail Blazer. Guard Landry Fields adds just over $6 million of his own to the total.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>16. Syracuse: $28,368,406 - 4 players</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Carmelo Anthony accounts for most of this total with his $21 million salary, while young guards Dion Waiters ($3.8 million) and Michael Carter-Williams ($2.2 million) come up after Melo. Waiters' future with the Cavaliers is uncertain, though he will have a spot in the NBA for a while, but MCW should help Syracuse shoot up this list in the next few years. The Rookie of the Year favorite exploded onto the scene for the Sixers this season, and they will want to lock him up with a new contract sooner rather than later.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>15. USC: $28,382,974 - 6 players</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Most don't think of USC as a program that churns out many big NBA stars, but the Trojans have three players making pretty good money in DeMar DeRozan ($9.5 million), O.J. Mayo ($8 million), and Taj Gibson ($7.5 million). Many viewed DeRozan's contract as a bad one for the Raptors, but he has become the team's leading scorer, and they are currently well in the playoff hunt. Outside of these three, Nikola Vucevic is in line to get a solid second NBA deal. The young forward averages 13 points and 11 rebounds for the Magic at just $1.8 million this season.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>14. Memphis: $31,675,971 - 5 players</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Memphis produced two of the more explosive (when healthy) guards in the NBA in former MVP Derrick Rose and current New Orleans Pelican Tyreke Evans. Rose is pulling in $17.6 million from the Chicago Bulls, although I'm sure they would pony up a few more million if it meant that Rose could stay on the court for a full season. Evans makes $11.8 million as one of the Pelicans strong guard trio. Elliot Williams, Will Barton, and Chris Douglas-Roberts each make under a million to add a bit to Memphis' total.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>13. Marquette: $31,900,232 - 6 players</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">The Golden Eagles' combined salaries are heavily propped up by Dwyane Wade's $18.7 million, but Wesley Matthews ($6.9 million) and Steve Novak ($3.75 million) each contribute as well. The player to watch out for is Jimmy Butler, who broke out during last year's playoffs as a capable offensive threat and elite perimeter defender. He's only pulling in $1.1 million this season, but is in line for a big second contract.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>12. Georgetown: $32,610,774 - 6 players</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Roy Hibbert's breakout for the Indiana Pacers has done wonders for the Hoya bottom line. As one of the best pure centers in the NBA, Hibbert will make just under $14.3 million in 2013-14. Forwards Jeff Green nets $8.7 million this year, while Otto Porter, and Greg Monroe are each at just over $4 million, although Monroe should be seeing an extension soon, or he may test free agency in the off-season.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>11. Wake Forest: $42,365,552 - 6 players</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Wake Forest basketball has been down for a few years, but the Demon Deacons still claim two of the NBA's top players and probable future Hall of Famers as their own. Chris Paul is widely considered the best point guard in the NBA and is paid like it, hauling in over $18.6 million this season. Tim Duncan is still an All-Star level power forward, but he has taken modest contracts in order to help the San Antonio Spurs build around him. The Big Fundamental will bring in over $10.3 million this season. Atlanta Hawks point guard Jeff Teague has been surprisingly steady this year, and makes $8 million for his efforts. Al-Farouq Aminu ($3.75 million), Ish Smith ($950,000), and James Johnson ($634,000) round out Wake's list.</p>
<p><strong>10. Texas: $43,109,367 - 8 players</strong></p>
<p>Superstars Kevin Durant and LaMarcus Aldridge account for over $32 million of Texas' $43 million in salary, and for good reason. The Thunder and Trail Blazers are tied for second place in the NBA's Western Conference with 28-9 records, largely because of their contributions. While the Longhorns haven't made a Final Four run since 2002-2003, they have consistently churned out decent NBA talent.</p>
<p><strong>9. Georgia Tech: $46,237,403 - 8 players</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">Yep, the same Georgia Tech program that's only reached the NCAAs three times since its title game run in 2004. Miami's Chris Bosh makes over $19 million, despite taking a lower salary to join the Heat. Thaddeus Young, Jarrett Jack and Derrick Favors all make at least $6 million. The Yellow Jackets surprisingly check in as the No. 3 ACC team on our list.</p>
<p><strong>8. Kansas: $46,758,883 - 14 players</strong></p>
<p>While Kansas has churned out a high number of NBA players, all but one - Paul Pierce - make less than $5 million. And Pierce's deal, which pays him just over $15 million this year, expires at the end of the season. While it's fair to assume that freshman superstar Andrew Wiggins, should he leave the Jayhawks after one year, will make a good chunk of change, it probably won't stop the program from free falling on this list next year. The number of NBA role players who attended KU (Hinrich, Chalmers, Rush, Robinson, Collison, Henry) is astounding.</p>
<p><strong>7. Arizona: $53,838,585 - 9 players</strong></p>
<p>The Wildcats' top four players in salary - Andre Iguodala, Richard Jefferson, Channing Frye, and Jason Terry - are all veterans who most likely won't get big contracts in the future. Derrick Williams, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, needed a change of scenery from Minnesota to Sacramento to get more playing time and show what he can do. Still, the lack of rising stars means that Zona will probably move down this list in the future, too.</p>
<p><strong>6. North Carolina: $53,948,533 - 16 players</strong></p>
<p>The Tar Heels have 16 players in the NBA, second to only Kentucky. Denver's Ty Lawson is actually the main breadwinner, checking in at just under $11 million this year. Next up are Marvin Williams, Brandan Wright, Danny Green and Raymond Felton. Like Kansas, UNC has a crazy-high number of role players in the NBA, along with a few aging superstars (Vince Carter, Antawn Jamison). While the sheer number of players should keep the Heels on this list for quite some time, they won't be challenging for the top spot any time soon.</p>
<p><strong>5. Florida: $60,873,433 - 12 players</strong></p>
<p>Florida's back-to-back NCAA titles in the mid-2000s produced three of the top four Gators, salary wise, currently playing in the NBA today. Al Horford and Joakim Noah both make over $11 million, while Corey Brewer checks in at $5 million. David Lee, who played at UF just a few years before those tournament runs, comes in at just under $14 million. One player to watch is 20-year-old Bradley Beal, who could be playing himself into a nice little contract with the Washington Wizards in the future.</p>
<p><strong>4. Duke: $67,081,620 - 14 players</strong></p>
<p>Last year, <a href="http://collegespun.com/acc/syracuse/the-15-colleges-whose-alumni-made-the-most-money-in-the-nba-this-year">Duke actually topped this list.</a> Why the drop? Corey Maggette (and his contract) retired, dropping the overall total over $10 million for the Blue Devils. Carlos Boozer and Luol Deng still make $15 million and $14 million, respectively, but one has to imagine that neither will get another huge deal in their career. 21-year-old superstar Kyrie Irving, on the other hand, has huge potential to land a max contract after his rookie deal expires. Whether he'll leave Cleveland, though, is a debate for another time.</p>
<p><strong>3. UCLA: $68,606,959 - 12 players</strong></p>
<p>Simply put, UCLA has produced two of the best young superstars in the NBA - Kevin Love and Russell Westbrook. Jrue Holiday, Arron Afflalo and Trevor Ariza have also turned into solid players who make between $7 million and $10 million per year. Rookie Shabazz Muhammad has had a tough time finding minutes for the Timberwolves, despite being drafted in the middle of the first round. The Bruins haven't churned much out in the past few years, but what they produced in the mid-to-late 2000s should keep their presence felt in the league for years to come.</p>
<p><strong>2. Connecticut: $75,530,794 - 12 players</strong></p>
<p>The Huskies have a very nice mix of older/younger NBA talent. While veterans like Rudy Gay, Emeka Okafor and Ben Gordon currently pull in the most cash, budding stars like Kemba Walker, Andre Drummond and Jeremy Lamb are poised for higher-paying contracts in the near future. Just like last year, UConn was within $2 million of taking the top overall spot, which you guessed it, belongs to:</p>
<p><strong>1. Kentucky: $77,324,323 - 21 players</strong></p>
<p>The program that everyone loves to hate, led by the coach that everyone loves to hate, actually produces the most NBA players. But it's not just the Coach Cal era - four of the top six paid former Wildcats - Rajon Rondo, Tayshaun Prince, Chuck Hayes and Keith Bogans - played well before he came to town. Even when those contracts expire, UK has another crop of rising stars. John Wall, Anthony Davis, DeMarcus Cousins and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist will all make substantially more money in a few years than they do now. It's entirely possible that Kentucky retains this spot for the next three, four, maybe even five years.</p>
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