Obviously, there are so many different ways that it could have played out. It is important to remember that while she is still the coach at Charlotte, she can say whatever she wants to her team. Here's the conversation that I always envision as happening (note: doesn't address the NIL aspect, which probably isn't a significant driver for most mid-major players trying to follow their coach... COACH (TO TEAM, PERHAPS IN A SUMMER MEETING CALLED THE NIGHT BEFORE): "Hey Ladies, I know there are a lot of rumors flying around. It certainly has been a crazy post-season already. As you all know, the HC position at South Carolina opened up last night. I played there and have strong ties to the program. I thought it was only fair to let you know now that I'll be applying for that job. No matter how that turns out, I want you to know how proud I am of you and what we've done here in Charlotte. Who knows, maybe I'll be here for a long time to come, but I need you to hear it from me before you read anything in all the media speculation. As always, I have an open door policy. If anyone has concerns that they need to talk through, please don't hesitate to give me a call or stop by my office." TEAM: Dead Silence, Jaws dropped. ... 30 minutes later... PLAYER X: "Hey coach... you have a minute to talk?" COACH: "Of course... you ok?" PLAYER X: "I guess. I just wanted to let you know you've been the best coach I've ever had. I'm wishing you the best of luck, but I'm selfishly hoping you stay right here. You know I would do anything for you anywhere, anytime, right?" COACH: "I'm flattered. I feel the same about you. You're everything any coach could ever want... on and off the field. Any coach anywhere would be thrilled to have you [wink]. I don't know what my future holds, but you need to know that I'll always be there for you [bigger wink]. PLAYER X: "Thanks Coach, 'cause if you go to SC, you know that's where I want to be." COACH: "Things will work out however they're meant to work out, but don't you worry about a thing" ... big coach/player hug... exit stage left The real exchange is certainly a lot more personal and detailed, but that's just the short version that I imagine. As long as there's no legit offer, and as long as this takes place before coach resigns and takes a position with the new school, there's nothing against the rules, or even really against good ethics going on here.