AD Bilsky comments on Ivy Hoops Tourney proposal

I just received a statement from Athletic Director Steve Bilsky on the possibility of an Ivy League tournament in men's basketball. The statement is a response to reports that Ancient Eight coaches are proposing a post-game tournament between the top four teams to determine the League's NCAA Tournament representative.

Two key takeaways: 1) To no surprise, Bilsky does not support an Ivy Tournament. 2) A major priority of his is to get football in the post-season. Here's the full release:

"Many coaches groups have submitted proposals for Ivy Tournaments and I'm sure the men's basketball one will receive the same consideration as has been done in the past.

"Over the years there has been wide-ranging discussion on the merits of a men's basketball tournament. There are many philosophical, as well as logistical, issues and challenges to consider. In my opinion, to date, the reasons not to have a tournament have been much more compelling than the reasons to sponsor one. When it comes to basketball competition, the double round-robin format to select the NCAA representative is one instance where I believe the Ivy League has it right.

"Nevertheless, our Ivy spring meetings are the proper forum to revisit this issue. Frankly, I would rather have the League place a greater priority on finding a way for our football programs to play in postseason competition."