North Carolina AD Bubba Cunningham under fire for controversial March Madness pick as contract incentives revealed
The Tar Heels are going dancing, but the college basketball world seemed more than shocked by the news — and wondering if perhaps some favoritism may have been involved.While North Carolina was predicted to be on the bubble – at best – to make the NCAA Tournament, the Tar Heels were selected to compete in March Madness this year ahead of some teams that fans believed were more deserving. To add to the matter, the tournament selection committee was chaired by North Carolina athletic director Bubba Cunningham, creating more anger among college hoops fans.“Whether North Carolina should be in or not is a good debate.Their AD is the chairman of the selection committee but cannot be in the room when the Tar Heels are discussed,” ESPN analyst Fran Fraschilla tweeted.
“But it’s human nature that it doesn’t hurt UNC’s chances when other members of the committee have spent so much time with him.Not criticizing it but just pointing it out.”Some noted how Cunningham also benefits finanically from the Tar Heels making the tournament and even more if they make a long run.Cunningham’s contract calls for him to receive a one month (8.33 percent) bonus of his yearly salary — which is $814,868 — should North Carolina make the tournament, per Inside Carolina.That would total $67,905.67.It also includes bonuses maxed at $100,000 should the Tar Heels in the national title, while he’ll reportedly reach $75,000 for a Final Four run and $50,000 for a Sweet 16 bid.Former Indiana coach Dan Dakich railed against the financial aspect while citing a monetary figure that seemingly combines Cunngingham’s salary and longtime incentive compensation.“This is simply a ridiculous conflict – Bubba Cunningham gets over $104,000 for UNC making the NCAA Tournament and HE’S THE HEAD OF THE SELECTION COMMITTEE!!!” he posted.The Cunningham factor adds to an already controversial pick when based just on resume.The Tar Heels went 22-13 but tallied just one win against Q...