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Patrick Beverly is close to signing with a European team
College Basketball "off-season" Thread (players leaving/coaching changes/recruiting)
- Thread in 'Sports & Training' Thread starter Started by wildkycat,
- Start date
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[h1]Collins' condition irks Self[/h1][h2]Kansas begins preparing for Canadian exhibition[/h2]
By Tully Corcoran
The Capital-Journal
Published Friday, August 22, 2008
LAWRENCE - You know it is basketball season when Bill Self is unhappy with Sherron Collins' conditioning.
Basketball season starts early this year.
[img]http://www.cjonline.com/06core/img/story_print.gif[/img]
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At Kansas' first basketball practice since April - KU has 10 days to prepare for an Aug. 30-31 exhibition tour in Canada - Collins was unable to fullyparticipate, and KU coach Bill Self wasn't pleased with the junior guard's conditioning.
"He's just in bad shape," Self said. "He reported back in bad shape."
Collins had knee surgery April 21, but even accounting for that, Self said Collins was lagging.
"He's a month behind where I thought he'd be at this stage," Self said. "As of now, he's not close to the point he'spracticing."
Self said he didn't know how much Collins weighed, except to say "not 195," which is Collins' optimal weight.
Part of the problem, Self said, was that just three weeks ago Collins was medically cleared to start working out normally, but that's when Collins choseto go back home to Chicago.
Self said Collins would play little if at all in Canada and suggested his poor conditioning wasn't a good sign for a guy expected to be a leader on ayoung team.
"I don't know if he is that, if he can be that," Self said. "I'd like for him to become that. Him not reporting back in shapedoesn't go far in becoming that with me.
"I'm not throwing him under the bus. He's had a rough couple of months. I expected a lot more."
So you might say it wasn't exactly a smooth first day for the defending national champions. Not only was one of the heroes from the title game, to useNFL lingo, physically unable to perform, two of the newcomers were legally unable to perform, as twins Marcus and Markieff Morris remain uncleared by the NCAAClearinghouse. Self said he still expects them to clear, and hopes it will happen today, but didn't know if that was realistic.
And to top it all off, Self felt compelled to punish his team with 20 minutes of running at the end of practice for what he described as "normalstuff."
"We had a couple of reasons to do some extra conditioning at the end of an easy workout," Self said. "They're probably not real pleasedwith me right now. Guys gotta take care of their responsibility."
Self stressed that the running had nothing to do with Markieff Morris' legal matter, the consequences of which are saved for another day.
"He'll be punished," Self said.
The one bright spot must have been Cole Aldrich, the sophomore center who Self has been raving about.
"Cole, right now, I would say he can lead our team," Self said. "He's the guy. He has more natural ability to lead than anybody on ourteam, (of the) returning guys."
But even at that, it was a visibly rough day. As the players walked back to the locker room from practice, somebody gave Aldrich a wave and a "Hey,Cole." All the typically effervescent Aldrich could muster was eye contact, a head nod and a loud breath. He, like the rest of the team, was beat.
"This practice wasn't near as much fun as the last time I coached our team," Self said.
By Tully Corcoran
The Capital-Journal
Published Friday, August 22, 2008
LAWRENCE - You know it is basketball season when Bill Self is unhappy with Sherron Collins' conditioning.
Basketball season starts early this year.
[img]http://www.cjonline.com/06core/img/story_print.gif[/img]
At Kansas' first basketball practice since April - KU has 10 days to prepare for an Aug. 30-31 exhibition tour in Canada - Collins was unable to fullyparticipate, and KU coach Bill Self wasn't pleased with the junior guard's conditioning.
"He's just in bad shape," Self said. "He reported back in bad shape."
Collins had knee surgery April 21, but even accounting for that, Self said Collins was lagging.
"He's a month behind where I thought he'd be at this stage," Self said. "As of now, he's not close to the point he'spracticing."
Self said he didn't know how much Collins weighed, except to say "not 195," which is Collins' optimal weight.
Part of the problem, Self said, was that just three weeks ago Collins was medically cleared to start working out normally, but that's when Collins choseto go back home to Chicago.
Self said Collins would play little if at all in Canada and suggested his poor conditioning wasn't a good sign for a guy expected to be a leader on ayoung team.
"I don't know if he is that, if he can be that," Self said. "I'd like for him to become that. Him not reporting back in shapedoesn't go far in becoming that with me.
"I'm not throwing him under the bus. He's had a rough couple of months. I expected a lot more."
So you might say it wasn't exactly a smooth first day for the defending national champions. Not only was one of the heroes from the title game, to useNFL lingo, physically unable to perform, two of the newcomers were legally unable to perform, as twins Marcus and Markieff Morris remain uncleared by the NCAAClearinghouse. Self said he still expects them to clear, and hopes it will happen today, but didn't know if that was realistic.
And to top it all off, Self felt compelled to punish his team with 20 minutes of running at the end of practice for what he described as "normalstuff."
"We had a couple of reasons to do some extra conditioning at the end of an easy workout," Self said. "They're probably not real pleasedwith me right now. Guys gotta take care of their responsibility."
Self stressed that the running had nothing to do with Markieff Morris' legal matter, the consequences of which are saved for another day.
"He'll be punished," Self said.
The one bright spot must have been Cole Aldrich, the sophomore center who Self has been raving about.
"Cole, right now, I would say he can lead our team," Self said. "He's the guy. He has more natural ability to lead than anybody on ourteam, (of the) returning guys."
But even at that, it was a visibly rough day. As the players walked back to the locker room from practice, somebody gave Aldrich a wave and a "Hey,Cole." All the typically effervescent Aldrich could muster was eye contact, a head nod and a loud breath. He, like the rest of the team, was beat.
"This practice wasn't near as much fun as the last time I coached our team," Self said.
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UMD is a joke
NO non conference road games.
NO non conference road games.
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They'll lose to Bucknell, GW, America, Charlotte, and Morgan St. Possibly Vermont too...book it.
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Wasn't aware Bryant made that jumpOriginally Posted by allen3xis
UMD is a joke
NO non conference road games.
They got that 'Cuse OOC schedule. No road games.
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UVM will actually have the best player on the floor, Blakley. --not a Greivis fan.
Plus Maurice Joseph former MSU player.
Plus Maurice Joseph former MSU player.
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With the all-important visit period beginning in full force this weekend, Rivals.com is getting an early jump on the 2009 team recruiting rankings.
With five commitments, North Carolina debuts at the top of the team rankings. Villanova is second, thanks to the addition of five-star forward Mouphtaou Yarou this week. Georgia Tech is third,and Illinois and North Carolina State round out the top five.
The initial rankings have just 15 teams. The visit period generally yields several commitments over the weekend, and the rankings will be adjusted toreflect the pledges. Each Wednesday this fall, we will update the team rankings and eventually expand the list.
http://[table][tr][td]2009 Team Rankings[/td] [/tr][tr][td]1. North Carolina[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2009 commits (National rank)
PF John Henson (6)
PG Dexter Strickland (17)
SG Leslie McDonald (55)
PF David Wear (6
PF Travis Wear (69)[/td] [td]The Tar Heels have sprinted out of the blocks better than any program in the country. Roy Williams and staff have locked up five players ranked in the top 70 nationally. Henson is the gem, while Strickland and McDonald are the backcourt of future of the backcourt. The Wear twins give UNC some size inside as well as provide long-term help for the rotation.[/td] [td]
[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2. Villanova[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2009 commits (National rank)
PF Mouphtaou Yarou (14)
PG Maalik Wayns (25)
PF Isaiah Armwood (62)[/td] [td]Who says the Wildcats are just a guard-oriented program? Villanova has two impressive post players in Yarou and Armwood to complement Wayns, one of the best floor generals in the country. With three players ranked in the top 65, the future of Villanova hoops is in good hands.[/td] [td]
[/td] [/tr][tr][td]3. Georgia Tech[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2009 commits (National rank)
PG Mfon Udofia (36)
SG Glen Rice (4
PF Kammeon Holsey (77)
SF Brian Oliver (129)[/td] [td]The Yellow Jackets wanted to lock up the foundation of the class early and did so with a quick run of pledges in June and July. Oliver was the first to pick the school and did so in mid-June. Holsey announced at the Nike Peach Jam, and a week later Udofia announced in Las Vegas and Rice in Orlando. Staying in-state was a priority.[/td] [td]
[/td] [/tr][tr][td]4. Illinois[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2009 commits (National rank)
SG Brandon Paul (44)
SG .J. Richardson (57)
SG Joseph Bertrand (116)
PF Tyler Griffey (127)[/td] [td]If there was any question about the Illini's ability to recruit in-state talent, the class of 2009 has proven that the program still can lock up the locals. The future looks bright, particularly in the backcourt. The trio of Paul, Richardson and Bertrand is a major upgrade at guard, while Griffey has the tools to be a grinder down low.[/td] [td]
[/td] [/tr][tr][td]5. N.C. State[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2009 commits (National rank)
PG Lorenzo Brown (43)
PF Richard Howell (51)
SG Scott Wood (126)[/td] [td]The Wolfpack love the Interstate-85 pipeline to Atlanta. After securing J.J. Hickson two years ago, Sidney Lowe and his staff have mined Georgia hard for talent. The results have been positive in 2009 with Brown and Howell. Both should help from Day One. A mini-Indiana connection also is growing. Last year the team landed Julius Mays. This year, Wood is the latest Hoosier to head south to Raleigh.[/td] [td]
[/td] [/tr][tr][td]6. Louisville[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2009 commits (National rank)
PF Rakeem Buckles (40)
PG Peyton Siva (49)
SG Mike Marra
[/td] [td]Rick Pitino and staff have already filled several needs in the 2010 class with these commitments. Buckles is one of the most intriguing players in the class because of his size, raw ability and versatility at power forward. Siva is similar to the scoring point guards the Cardinals have relied on in the past. Marra is an athletic wing with great range on his jumper.[/td] [td]
[/td] [/tr][tr][td]7. Connecticut[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2009 commits (National rank)
C Alex Oriakhi (21)
SF Jamal Coombs (65)[/td] [td]It seems as if Oriahki and Coombs have been committed to the Huskies for a decade. Both pledged to Jim Calhoun early in the recruiting process, and over time they have improved tremendously. Oriahki could be a McDonald's All-America, while Coombs has developed into one of the top wings in the nation. Look for both to make contributions in Storrs.[/td] [td]
[/td] [/tr][tr][td]8. Marquette[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2009 commits (National rank)
SF Jeronne Maymon (46)
PG Junior Cadougan (60)
SF Erik Williams (99)
SG Dwight Buycks[/td] [td]New coach Buzz Williams wasted little time making his mark. The Golden Eagles locked up local stars in Maymon and Buycks, and went to Texas and took advantage of Williams' roots for Williams and Cadougan.[/td] [td]
[/td] [/tr][tr][td]9. Indiana[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2009 commits (National rank)
SG Maurice Creek (59)
SF Derek Elston (9
PG Jordan Hulls (106)
PF Bobby Capobianco[/td] [td]Creek is the major score in the class. He was high on Marquette when Tom Crean was at the helm and carried over his fondness when the Hoosiers hired the former Golden Eagles' head man. Creek should help from Day One in the guard-oriented style that Crean employs. Indiana fans love that Crean is recruiting the local kids. Hulls, a Bloomington native, embodies the Hoosier spirit with his play. So does Capobianco, an Ohio forward. Elston, a holdover from the Sampson regime, missed the summer because of injury.[/td] [td]
[/td] [/tr][tr][td]10. UAB[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2009 commits (National rank)
PF DeMarcus Cousins (2)
SG Casey Mitchell
SG David Murray[/td] [td]The Blazers have an answer for Memphis in Cousins. In fact, they may have an answer for just about every program in the nation. Cousins, a Birmingham native who is playing in Mobile now, is one of the true elite talents in the class. His addition alone gives UAB a major shot in the arm. Adding Mitchell, a big time junior college scorer, and Murray is key in the backcourt.[/td] [td]
[/td] [/tr][tr][td]UP NEXT:[/td] [/tr][tr][td]11. CLEMSON: PF Milton Jennings (12), PF Devin Booker (137), SG Donte Hill
12. ARIZONA: SF Solomon Hill (2, SF Mike Moser (83), PG Reger Dowell (135)
13. KANSAS STATE: PF Wally Judge (23), SG Rodney McGruder (91), Jordan Henriquez
14. PITTSBURGH: PF Dante Taylor (24), SF Lamar Patterson (109), SF Darnell Dodson
15. BAYLOR: PF Cory Jefferson (33), PG A.J. Walton (132)[/td] [/tr][/table]
With five commitments, North Carolina debuts at the top of the team rankings. Villanova is second, thanks to the addition of five-star forward Mouphtaou Yarou this week. Georgia Tech is third,and Illinois and North Carolina State round out the top five.
The initial rankings have just 15 teams. The visit period generally yields several commitments over the weekend, and the rankings will be adjusted toreflect the pledges. Each Wednesday this fall, we will update the team rankings and eventually expand the list.
http://[table][tr][td]2009 Team Rankings[/td] [/tr][tr][td]1. North Carolina[/td] [/tr][tr][td]2009 commits (National rank)
PF John Henson (6)
PG Dexter Strickland (17)
SG Leslie McDonald (55)
PF David Wear (6
PF Travis Wear (69)[/td] [td]The Tar Heels have sprinted out of the blocks better than any program in the country. Roy Williams and staff have locked up five players ranked in the top 70 nationally. Henson is the gem, while Strickland and McDonald are the backcourt of future of the backcourt. The Wear twins give UNC some size inside as well as provide long-term help for the rotation.[/td] [td]
PF Mouphtaou Yarou (14)
PG Maalik Wayns (25)
PF Isaiah Armwood (62)[/td] [td]Who says the Wildcats are just a guard-oriented program? Villanova has two impressive post players in Yarou and Armwood to complement Wayns, one of the best floor generals in the country. With three players ranked in the top 65, the future of Villanova hoops is in good hands.[/td] [td]
PG Mfon Udofia (36)
SG Glen Rice (4
PF Kammeon Holsey (77)
SF Brian Oliver (129)[/td] [td]The Yellow Jackets wanted to lock up the foundation of the class early and did so with a quick run of pledges in June and July. Oliver was the first to pick the school and did so in mid-June. Holsey announced at the Nike Peach Jam, and a week later Udofia announced in Las Vegas and Rice in Orlando. Staying in-state was a priority.[/td] [td]
SG Brandon Paul (44)
SG .J. Richardson (57)
SG Joseph Bertrand (116)
PF Tyler Griffey (127)[/td] [td]If there was any question about the Illini's ability to recruit in-state talent, the class of 2009 has proven that the program still can lock up the locals. The future looks bright, particularly in the backcourt. The trio of Paul, Richardson and Bertrand is a major upgrade at guard, while Griffey has the tools to be a grinder down low.[/td] [td]
PG Lorenzo Brown (43)
PF Richard Howell (51)
SG Scott Wood (126)[/td] [td]The Wolfpack love the Interstate-85 pipeline to Atlanta. After securing J.J. Hickson two years ago, Sidney Lowe and his staff have mined Georgia hard for talent. The results have been positive in 2009 with Brown and Howell. Both should help from Day One. A mini-Indiana connection also is growing. Last year the team landed Julius Mays. This year, Wood is the latest Hoosier to head south to Raleigh.[/td] [td]
PF Rakeem Buckles (40)
PG Peyton Siva (49)
SG Mike Marra
[/td] [td]Rick Pitino and staff have already filled several needs in the 2010 class with these commitments. Buckles is one of the most intriguing players in the class because of his size, raw ability and versatility at power forward. Siva is similar to the scoring point guards the Cardinals have relied on in the past. Marra is an athletic wing with great range on his jumper.[/td] [td]
C Alex Oriakhi (21)
SF Jamal Coombs (65)[/td] [td]It seems as if Oriahki and Coombs have been committed to the Huskies for a decade. Both pledged to Jim Calhoun early in the recruiting process, and over time they have improved tremendously. Oriahki could be a McDonald's All-America, while Coombs has developed into one of the top wings in the nation. Look for both to make contributions in Storrs.[/td] [td]
SF Jeronne Maymon (46)
PG Junior Cadougan (60)
SF Erik Williams (99)
SG Dwight Buycks[/td] [td]New coach Buzz Williams wasted little time making his mark. The Golden Eagles locked up local stars in Maymon and Buycks, and went to Texas and took advantage of Williams' roots for Williams and Cadougan.[/td] [td]
SG Maurice Creek (59)
SF Derek Elston (9
PG Jordan Hulls (106)
PF Bobby Capobianco[/td] [td]Creek is the major score in the class. He was high on Marquette when Tom Crean was at the helm and carried over his fondness when the Hoosiers hired the former Golden Eagles' head man. Creek should help from Day One in the guard-oriented style that Crean employs. Indiana fans love that Crean is recruiting the local kids. Hulls, a Bloomington native, embodies the Hoosier spirit with his play. So does Capobianco, an Ohio forward. Elston, a holdover from the Sampson regime, missed the summer because of injury.[/td] [td]
PF DeMarcus Cousins (2)
SG Casey Mitchell
SG David Murray[/td] [td]The Blazers have an answer for Memphis in Cousins. In fact, they may have an answer for just about every program in the nation. Cousins, a Birmingham native who is playing in Mobile now, is one of the true elite talents in the class. His addition alone gives UAB a major shot in the arm. Adding Mitchell, a big time junior college scorer, and Murray is key in the backcourt.[/td] [td]
12. ARIZONA: SF Solomon Hill (2
, SF Mike Moser (83), PG Reger Dowell (135) 13. KANSAS STATE: PF Wally Judge (23), SG Rodney McGruder (91), Jordan Henriquez
14. PITTSBURGH: PF Dante Taylor (24), SF Lamar Patterson (109), SF Darnell Dodson
15. BAYLOR: PF Cory Jefferson (33), PG A.J. Walton (132)[/td] [/tr][/table]
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I know I missed soemthing but didn't John Wall sign with Baylor after they hired his coach?
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^ Allen you are going to make me have a liquid lunch looking at that list
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Don't worry about it.Originally Posted by Seymore CAKE
^ Allen you are going to make me have a liquid lunch looking at that list
The 09 class overall is trash.
2010 is where it's at. I can bet K held off on some Top 100's kid he could land to save 'ships for the '10 class.
Notice how Bruce Weber, Sidney Lowe, and Crean make that list....what do they have in common...desperate for players and instant success. I'm sure theywent after these kids more than other currently established programs.
..
Johnny- Not official...Memphis, Oregon, etc still on his list
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So, if Wall doesn't go to Baylor...
How long will it take for his boy to get fired????
How long will it take for his boy to get fired????
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Wasn't aware Bryant made that jumpOriginally Posted by allen3xis
UMD is a joke
NO non conference road games.
Maryland sucks anyways so it ant like its a high ranked to playing cupcakes
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Over/Under 2yrs... I'm going with the under
Originally Posted by allen3xis
Don't worry about it.Originally Posted by Seymore CAKE
^ Allen you are going to make me have a liquid lunch looking at that list
The 09 class overall is trash.
2010 is where it's at. I can bet K held off on some Top 100's kid he could land to save 'ships for the '10 class.
Notice how Bruce Weber, Sidney Lowe, and Crean make that list....what do they have in common...desperate for players and instant success. I'm sure they went after these kids more than other currently established programs.
..
Johnny- Not official...Memphis, Oregon, etc still on his list
You do have a good point there, I think its a combination of the facts that UNC is at the top of that list and Nova is 2nd after they stole the power forwardI'd hope we would land and we aren't even in the next 5. If we land some bigs in the 10 class that'll allow Kyle to go to his natural positionI'll be pleased with this period off. What are the odds looking like for that to happen?
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First...there still are chances you guys could get Boynton or Kelly for 09.
From what I see..
You guys could have a GREAT class for 2010. Dawkins already on board..plus..
- Barnes, Hairston, Thornton, Brandon Knight, Roscoe, Mychal Parker..
However, none of those are taller than 6'8.
Basically it appears your stuck with this new system K has in place for the foreseeable future with only guys who are 4's on the college level....with gamemore like 3's...(Hairston, Kelly).
Guess it'll all be up to the Plumlee's...who don't appear to be all that physical themselves.
From what I see..
You guys could have a GREAT class for 2010. Dawkins already on board..plus..
- Barnes, Hairston, Thornton, Brandon Knight, Roscoe, Mychal Parker..
However, none of those are taller than 6'8.
Basically it appears your stuck with this new system K has in place for the foreseeable future with only guys who are 4's on the college level....with gamemore like 3's...(Hairston, Kelly).
Guess it'll all be up to the Plumlee's...who don't appear to be all that physical themselves.
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I hope John Wall doesn't go to Baylor. It would serve those bastards right. (I hate their fans by the way.)
I don't think Texas A&M really has any actual road games out of conference either. I know we're going to South Padre Island for a tournament, butthat's only like 3 or 4 hours away. I dunno if we leave state...
I don't think Texas A&M really has any actual road games out of conference either. I know we're going to South Padre Island for a tournament, butthat's only like 3 or 4 hours away. I dunno if we leave state...
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Look for both Boynton and Knight to end up in Florida...
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Class of 2009 [table][tr][td] [/td] [/tr][tr][td] [/td] [td]
John Wall
[/td] [/tr][tr][td] [/td] [/tr][/table]
Beginning with the rising senior class of 2009, John Wall tops the list with his off the charts quickness and explosiveness from the point guard position. He still must work at improving his jumpshot and polish his point guard skills. While still raw, his size, 6'4, and vision combined with his athleticism gives him the edge as the top prospect in the senior class. Provided Wall continues working hard, he's the odds on favorite to be the top overall pick in 2010.
Next up in the senior class is Xavier Henry who has prototypical size and athleticism for the 2-guard position. He missed the end of the summer due to injury but his polished skills and upside give him the nod over a handful of talented bigmen in the class.
Coming in third is Derrick Favors who could be the most dominant player on the high school level. His ability to impact both ends of the floor and his non-stop motor, giving strong effort every time out, makes his outlook extremely bright. He'll need to improve his range and offensive game, but has a lot to work with, and should be an impact guy from the time he sets foot on a college floor.
6-9 bigman DeMarcus Cousins shows a great deal of potential with a 7-foot-6 wingspan and soft touch on his shot. He's already got a strong body and solid offensive skills. The question marks with Cousins surround his intensity and desire. He may have even more upside than Favors, but he doesn't always show up or give his all every minute on the floor.
Speaking of potential, while John Henson has some major work to do on his body, he shows a lot of upside due to his speed in the open floor and offensive skills. He displays the ability to knock down mid-range shots and a willingness to compete. Great news for North Carolina fans as there's a good chance he'll be around for a few seasons as he lacks the freakish athleticism of a Brandan Wright, meaning he must put on some bulk before attempting a jump to the pros.
Kenny Boynton may lack a true position as a 6-2 scoring guard, but his killer instinct and competitiveness is second to none. He lacks great form on his shot but it's highly effective. He may lack the upside of some other players in this class, but he's as ready as anyone to impact the college game and develop into a pro.
Although he has slipped on some rankings, Dominic Cheek has a very polished offensive game and the length and athletic ability to continue to improve. He needs to add strength to his frame but his mid-range game is advanced for a high schooler.
The West Coast checks in beginning with Jordan Hamilton who's game is both smooth and mature. Hamilton shows the ability to bring the ball up and make plays for others with his vision and passing ability. Wouldn't he work well, ala Lamar Odom, in a Phil Jackson-style triangle offense?
The summer's biggest riser Avery Bradley leapfrogged high school and AAU teammate Abdul Gaddy. Although Gaddy has better size for his position, Bradley's combination of length (wingspan), athleticism, picture perfect jumpshot and ability to defend (he might be the best defender in the class) will allow him to overcome his size deficiency.
Squeaking into the top ten by the skin of his teeth is Renardo Sidney who after his first two years in high school was the clear cut top prospect in the class and appeared destined for greatness. Those lofty expectations have been severely decreased and there are fears that his immense talents are being wasted. While the game comes extremely easy to him when he tries, the problem is he rarely sustains any intensity level and focus. The right college situation will be key for his development and future.
Class of 2010
[table][tr][td] [/td] [/tr][tr][td] [/td] [td]
Brandon Knight
[/td] [/tr][/table]
[table][tr][td]
[/td] [/tr][tr][td] [/td] [/tr][/table]After much deliberation, Iowa wing Harrison Barnes grabbed the top spot among the 2010 class. Barnes combines superb athletism with a smooth offensive game, and the prerequisite size and athleticism to play on the wing. His excellent showing at the Nike Global Challenge in Portland gave him the edge over classmates Knight and Thompson.
Charging hard for the top spot in the class, Florida point guard Brandon Knight makes the game appear very easy. His lightning quick first step makes him extremely difficult to guard. He shows excellent scoring ability and a developing ability to create for others.
Texas commit Tristan Thompson has the look and feel of a star. He's 6-8 with a perfect physique to play the 3 at the highest level. Right now though he has a lot of work to do at making the transition for a PF into a SF. Barnes, Knight and Thompson round out the top three rising junior prospects.
Class of 2011
While he still has bouts of inconsistent play, it's amazing to think that Seattle based sophomore to be Tony Wroten is 1993 born. In Vegas, he looked to be among the top 3-5 players overall in high school regardless of class.
He's a bigtime athlete with huge upside but will need to grow a few inches to truly become special. His unselfishness and vision in particular make him very intriguing and the clear cut top prospect in his class.
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Is that NBA draft just trying to be 'different'
Cause there is no way in hell that Cheek is better than Lance. for college or NBA.
Just no chance of that.
Cause there is no way in hell that Cheek is better than Lance. for college or NBA.
Just no chance of that.
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You delivering all the bad news man...
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that wall pic looks so crazy ..
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I hear from someone who plays with Kenny Boynton that he's going to Duke. I'm not believing it 100 percent but just putting it out there
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and I hear talk is cheap...
(Ask DMX)
(Ask DMX)
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I think Boynton ends up at Florida at the end of the day. He would bring a type of play to Duke that hasn't been their in a minute though.
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The fall signing period for college basketball, Nov. 12-19, is about three months away, and we are on the brink of college coaches' fall contact period, which begins Sept. 9 and extends through Oct. 5. So players' verbal commitments could really start multiplying.
Already, 60 players in the 2009 ESPNU 100 have chosen their future college. Of those players who have made their decisions, 14 of them are ranked in the top 30 and 27 are in the top 50.
Only three of the top 15 prospects, however, have decided where they'll attend college. These highly rated and still-undecided players, including the top two prospects, 6-6 G/F Xavier Henry, and 6-9 PF Derrick Favors, could significantly impact the final positioning of the 2009 fall recruiting classes.
Although these current recruiting rankings undoubtedly will change during the coming months, we thought it timely to revise and update the pre-summer recruiting list from May. North Carolina, with commitments from five players in the ESPNU top 50, retains the No. 1 spot.
Villanova, with a recent commitment from one of the nation's top sleepers, No. 27 6-9 C/F Mouphtaou Yarou (Woodstock, Va./Massanutten Military Academy), vaulted to No. 2. Three of its recruits are ranked in the top 35. Georgetown, Texas A&M and Marquette complete the top five current classes.
ESPN.com's top 10 recruiting classes
John Henson
Chris Johnson/Reebok
John Henson is the No. 3 prospect in the ESPNU 150.
1. North Carolina, five verbal commitments
The Tar Heels struck early and assembled a highly talented class with five top 50 players who could make up a formidable team. This group is headed by No. 3 prospect power forward John Henson, who recently moved with his family to Tampa, Fla. He will play his senior year at Sickles High School. Henson had a tremendous summer, after which he made a considerable jump in the player rankings, and he has unlimited potential as he adds strength and weight. Other top newcomers for coach Roy Williams are No. 19 prospect Dexter Strickland (Elizabeth, N.J./ St. Patrick), a 6-3 combo guard; No. 25, 6-5 guard Leslie McDonald (Eads, Tenn./ Briarcrest Christian); and the highly skilled Wear twins, No. 49 David Wear and No. 50 Travis Wear (Santa Ana, Calif./ Mater Dei). The Tar Heels could lock up the top recruiting ranking if they can get No. 12 prospect, 6-9 forward Ryan Kelly (Raleigh, N.C./ Ravenscroft).
2. Villanova, three verbal commits
Coach Jay Wright's Wildcats ascended to No. 2 by securing commitments from three players among the top 35, led by No. 22 Maalik Wayns (Philadelphia/ Roman Catholic). The 6-footer projects as the consummate future floor leader at Villanova. The Wildcats also have Yarou, a native of of Benin, Africa, who emerged as one of the nation's best power players this summer; and No. 31 Isaiah Armwood (Rockville, Md./ Montrose Christian), a versatile 6-8 P/WF. Villanova could challenge North Carolina for top honors if it lands No. 11 Dominic Cheek (Jersey City, N.J./ St. Anthony) -- a sweet-shooting, 6-6 guard -- and No. 33, 6-10 C Aaric Murray (Concordville, Pa./ Glen Mills).
3. Georgetown, three verbal commits
Coach John Thompson III and the Hoyas have a strong three-member class of two ESPNU 100 players and one of the nation's top prep school talents. Six-foot-8 PF Chris Braswell (Chatham, Va./ Hargrave Military Academy) was a 2008 Hoyas signee, but he did not achieve the academic requirements to enroll at Georgetown this fall and will spend next year as a postgraduate player at Hargrave Military. Braswell, a force inside, will be one of the top-rated prep school players. The Hoyas also have No. 32 DaShonte Riley (Beverly Hills, Mich./ Detroit Country Day), a talented but inconsistent 6-10 C/F, and No. 75, gifted 6-7 WF Hollis Thompson (Los Angeles, Calif./ Loyola). Several highly ranked prospects are considering Georgetown, so it could advance in the final rankings.
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Dashonte Riley
Les Bentley for ESPN.com
Is Dashonte Riley going to be Georgetown's next great center?
4. Texas A&M, three verbal commits
Coach Mark Turgeon and his hard-working staff continued their outstanding recruiting success for the Aggies; Texas A&M has received commitments from three ESPNU 100 players. They are No. 59 Naji Hibbert (Hyattsville, Md./ DeMatha), a multitalented 6-5 2G, No. 64 Khris Middleton (Charleston, S.C./ Porter Gaud), a high-scoring 6-6 WF, and No. 87Kourtney Roberson (Acadia, La.), a powerful inside operative.
5. Marquette, three verbal commits
New head coach Buzz Williams has recruited well since replacing Tom Crean at Marquette. The Golden Eagles already have three ESPNU 100 recruits and are looking to add more. Marquette's class is headlined by Junior Cadougan (originally from Toronto, but attending classes at the Christian Life Center in Humble, Texas). The 6-1 Cadougan was one of the top point guards on the summer circuit. No. 76 Jeronne Maymon (Madison, Wis./ Madison Memorial), a 6-7 power forward, is the state's second-best player. Six-foot-7 WF Erik Williams (Cypress, Texas/ Cypress Springs) is ranked No. 97.
6. N.C. State, three verbal commitments
Coach Sidney Lowe has again landed recruits from the talent-rich state of Georgia; among them are two ESPNU 100 players. Lorenzo Brown (Roswell, Ga./ Centennial), No. 48, can play both backcourt positions, and 6-8 PF Richard Howell (Marietta, Ga./ Wheeler), rated No. 58, will join him in North Carolina. Howell played on the same travel team as N.C. State's freshman standout of last year, J. J. Hickson, who was drafted by the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers. Howell has the potential to make an impact comparable to that of Hickson for the Wolfpack next year. Coach Lowe also has a commitment from one of the nation's best perimeter shooters, potential ESPNU 100 prospect 6-5 2G Scott Wood (Marion, Ind.). Although the Wolfpack now have players for all three of their available scholarships, they are still involved in talks with No. 81, 6-5 G/F Garrius Adams (Apex, N.C./ Middle Creek).
7. Connecticut, two verbal commits
Coach Jim Calhoun and the Huskies have received commitments from two players in the top 40. One of the top big men of the summer, No. 20 6-8 PF Alex Oriakhi (Tilton, N.H./ The Tilton School), is headed to Storrs. Joining him will be his high school teammate, No. 38 Jamal Coombs-McDaniel, who's a versatile, high-scoring wing. UConn will move up if the Huskies can close on any of the highly rated targets they are pursuing.
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Erik Murphy
Kelly Kline for ESPN.com
Erik Murphy is athletic enough to play in Florida's up-tempo system.
8. Florida, two verbal commits
You can always count on coach Billy Donovan to have a nationally ranked recruiting class, and this year is no exception. The Gators now have commitments from No. 24, 6-10 PF Erik Murphy (Southborough, Mass./ St. Mark's School) and No. 36, 6-10 C/F DeShawn Painter (Chatham, Va./ Hargrave Military Academy). Murphy is one of the most talented all-around big men in the nation. He is a perfect fit for Donovan's playing style. Painter is a superb athlete, but he must get stronger. If the Gators can grab shooting star 6-3 2G Kenny Boynton (Plantation, Fla./ American Heritage), who is ranked No. 13, their class could move up to No. 2.
9. Georgia Tech, four commits
Coach Paul Hewitt and his staff have gotten four talented recruits, including two ESPNU 100 players. The group is led by No. 41 Kammeon Holsey (Sparta, Ga./ Hancock Central), a versatile 6-8 forward, and No. 47 Mfon Udofia (Lithonia, Ga./ Miller Grove), a hard-nosed, 6-3 combo guard. The Yellow Jackets also have commitments from two other nationally ranked players, 6-5 G/F Glen Rice Jr. (Marietta, Ga./ Walton) and hot-shooting 6-6 WF Brian Oliver (New Castle, Del./ William Penn). Georgia Tech appears to be one of the top schools for No. 2 prospect Derrick Favors (Atlanta, Ga./ South Atlanta). The Yellow Jackets could challenge for top honors if they add Favors.
10. Illinois, four verbal commits
Based on our revised ESPNU 100, the Illini fell from the No. 2 spot to No. 10. Coach Bruce Weber now has two ESPNU 100 commitments -- No. 56, guard D.J. Richardson, who will attend Henderson, Nev./Findlay Prep for his senior year and No. 69, 6-9 PF Tyler Griffey (Wildwood, Mo./ Lafayette). Both Richardson and Griffey had outstanding performances in July and could elevate in the final player ratings. Illinois signed two other highly regarded backcourt players, 6-4 Brandon Paul (Gurnee, Ill./ Warren), who could turn out to be the Illini's top recruit next year, and 6-3 combo guard Joe Bertrand (Sterling, Ill.).
Honorable mentions
Louisville, three verbal commits
Once again, coach Rick Pitino and his Cardinals will have a highly ranked recruiting class. Louisville now has two ESPNU 100 players. No. 28 Peyton Siva (Seattle/ Franklin) is a tough, talented point guard. Athletic big man Rakeem Buckles (Opa-Locka, Fla./ Monsignor Pace), ranked No. 74, is well-suited for the team's style of play. The Cardinals also have gotten unranked sharpshooter, 6-5 2G Mike Marra (Northfield, Mass./ Northfield-Mount Hermon). Do not be surprised if Coach Pitino adds more talent to this class.
Oklahoma, three verbal commitments
Coach Jeff Capel's Sooners have three commitments, including two ESPNU 100 players. No. 37, point guard Tommy Mason-Griffin (Mouth of Wilson, Va./ Oak Hill Academy) is the Sooners' top recruit. He is joined by No. 92, 6-5 G/F Steven Pledger (Chesapeake, Va./ Atlantic Shores Christian); and unranked, but productive, 6-9 PF/C Kyle Hardrick (Norman, Okla.). Mason-Griffin is a strong, compact, spark plug lead guard who stood out against the nation's top point guards in July. He will be an outstanding future floor leader for the Sooners.
Other programs that could rank in the top 25:
Arizona (3 verbals), Arizona State (2), Auburn (2), Baylor (2), Clemson (3), Duke (1), Indiana (4), Iowa (2), Kansas State (2), Kentucky (2), Memphis (2), Michigan (2), Michigan State (2), New Mexico (3), Oklahoma State (3), Pittsburgh (2), Purdue (4), Southern California (2), UAB (2), UCLA (2), UNLV (4), Virginia (2), Virginia Tech (4), West Virginia (3), Wisconsin (2) Rutgers (2) and St. John's (2)
Bob Gibbons is a recruiting director for ESPN Scouts Inc. He is the editor and publisher of the All Star Sports Report and is widely regarded as the recruiting guru of college basketball.
Holy hell, Bob Gibbons has us at the #4 recruiting class in the nation right now? I'll take it