There's no doubt the excitement of L.A. is a big draw for some athletes, especially those from overseas. They know UCLA. Just the name conjures up images of palm trees and Baywatch and all that good stuff.

Without a doubt, this is the most important tournament in our program. The excitement surrounding a push towards qualifying is always electric but with that comes loads of pressure to make sure we are there in Russia this summer.

Our brand is even stronger internationally, because a school's athletic reputation in the U.S. is so reliant on football and [men's] basketball.

The toughest thing these days for top players coming into college isn't the level of competition, but just getting comfortable with being in school. Learning your way around campus, learning how to budget your time. If they manage that all right, their games almost take care of themselves.

These are young vibrant athletes who have a lot of energy and confidence that they can play. That excitement drives TV ratings and produces opportunities.

Little did I know that there's nothing more competitive in the world than a professional ballroom dancer. They are as competitive as Olympic athletes.