Vice President Harris, known for her passion for sports, recently made headlines for her comments regarding the NCAA Division I women's basketball tournament. During a conversation with Spectrum News, Harris mentioned that women's teams were not allowed to have brackets until 2022, which was when the NCAA women's tournament earned the March Madness branding.
While Harris's statement may have caused some confusion, it is important to note that brackets have been a part of women's college basketball since the early 1980s. The inaugural NCAA Division I women's basketball tournament dates back to 1982, showcasing the long-standing history of women's basketball competition.
Despite the minor oversight in her comment, Harris expressed enthusiasm for the increased visibility and recognition of women's sports. She highlighted the positive impact of introducing brackets for the women's tournament, emphasizing how it encourages more people to engage with and support women's teams.
Notable players like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, JuJu Watkins, Paige Bueckers, and Madison Booker have played a significant role in drawing attention to women's college basketball and showcasing the talent and skill of female athletes.
Furthermore, Harris's recent social media post featuring her 2021 brackets resurfaced, revealing her support for women's basketball. In her bracket, she predicted South Carolina and USC meeting in the title game, with the Gamecocks emerging as the champions.
As the NCAA women's basketball tournament progresses, star players like Aziaha James, NC State Wolfpack, Iowa Hawkeyes, and UConn Huskies are set to compete in the Final Four games, captivating fans with their exceptional performances and competitive spirit.
Harris's remarks, although slightly inaccurate in terms of the timeline of brackets for women's basketball, underscore the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of female athletes in the world of sports. Her support for women's sports and advocacy for providing a larger platform for women's teams reflect a positive step towards promoting gender equality and inclusivity in athletics.