What could have been? That's the questions I've been asking myself throughout the NBA Playoffs this season.
First, what could have been if Luol Deng didn't bolt Duke after only one season? If you haven't noticed, he's the Bulls best player and was a mismatch for the defending champions. Sure, Ben Gordon may be their money guy at the end of the game but Deng has become a tremendously versatile player and if he would've hung around for a few more years at Duke, the sky could've been the limit. He's on the verge on becoming a perennial All-Star...
Second, what could have been if Coach K wouldn't have given Baron Davis' scholarship away to William Avery? First, William Avery was an excellent PG for Duke for two seasons but let's face it, who would Duke fans have rather had: a 6'5'' PG who is dominating in the NBA playoffs or a guard who is struggling to find time in Tel Aviv? Exactly. To me, when healthy, Baron Davis is the 3rd best PG in the league and that's saying something considering only Nash and Kidd are better and that's only because Davis has been plagued with injuries. Just imagine if Davis would've went to Duke though, how about this lineup in 1999:
PG- Baron Davis
SG- Trajan Langdon
SF- Chris Carrawell
PF- Shane Battier
C- Elton Brand
6th Man- Corey Maggette
The 1999 team with Avery was seconds away from going down as one of the greatest teams of all-time. They went 37-2 that year and the two losses were by a combined 4 points. If you put Baron Davis, with the way he played at UCLA because it's not fair to compare him now, on that team, that truly could've been a 39-0 National Championship team.
Finally, what could've been if Carlos Boozer showed us his jumper at Duke and didn't play back to the basket? There were two reasons why Boozer dropped to the 2nd Round after he came out after his Junior season: 1, he blew a wide open layup at the buzzer of the Indiana game, which turned out to be his last shot at Duke and 2, for a back to the basket player, at 6'8'', he was a little small despite being chiseled out of granite.
Other Notables in the Playoffs:
Chris Duhon is ran a nice PG off the bench as Chicago swept Miami.
Shane Battier is a perfect fit for Houston and when he scores, it's all gravy considering the intangibles he brings day in and day out.
Also, I know Toronto is getting spanked by New Jersey but how about how Kris Humphries is playing? He's the forgotten man. Everyone talks about Deng and Livingston playing a combined 1 year at Duke but what about Humphries who cried his way out of a letter of intent to go to Minnesota, where he dominated for a year before he jumped to the pros. I have contended this since 2004, if Humphries goes to Duke, Duke wins the 2004 National Title.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Hostage Crisis
I couldn't give a damn about Bill Self and his program at Kansas but I'm really sick of these college coaches being held hostage by their players. Look at what just transpired. Brandon Rush kept putting off his decision until the last second. Yesterday, Kansas target Alex Legion, who played with Nolan Smith at Oak Hill, signed a letter of intent at Kentucky and one of the reasons he signed was because he couldn't wait to see if a scholarship would open up at Kansas or not. Today, Rush declares for the draft and now Kansas, who certainly isn't hurting for talented players, lost out on Legion. Something needs to be done to control this epidemic. It is severely hurting the college game and really handcuffing coaches. If you're going to declare early, why can't you do what Josh McRoberts did? McRoberts declared almost instantly after the season ended and I have to believe one of the reasons was Coach K told him he didn't care what the decision was as long as he did it quick so they could strengthen their case to get Patterson.
By the way, while we are on the subject, I think all Blue Devil fans needs to come to the realization that Patterson will not be coming to Duke next year. You have Billy Guillespe promising 16-20 shots a game and Billy Donovan is still in the mix and right now, Florida is the sexy pick. Plus, Patterson has developed a great relationship with another unsigned recruit, Jai Lucas and many believe Patterson will go where he goes. I get the same feeling...
With that said, I hope I am proved wrong but if he doesn't come, don't start feeling bad for Duke. I think from offensive and chemistry standpoints, they will much improved. McRoberts was Mr. Versatile for them but from what you read, no one was shedding any tears in that lockerroom when he decided to declare. Supposedly, he gave off the persona to the entire team that he was better than they were and the college game was beneath him.
Out of the following guys: Paulus, Sheyer, Singler, Henderson, would it surprise anyone if any of those guys scored over 15 points a game? It wouldn't surprise me. Like I've been saying, Duke is as talented as any team in the country at the 1-3 positions. If Singler and King are as advertised and Lance Thomas shows why Duke waited until minutes before the 1st game for his decision to go there, then they will be fine at the 4. To me, the season depends on the development of Brian Zoubek. If Zoubek adds some muscle, improves his footwork and defense, then Duke will be a top team. If he looks like he did for most of last year, you're looking at a platoon of Lance Thomas, Kyle Singler, and David McClure at the 5 position. Duke will get killed down low if that happens.
By the way, while we are on the subject, I think all Blue Devil fans needs to come to the realization that Patterson will not be coming to Duke next year. You have Billy Guillespe promising 16-20 shots a game and Billy Donovan is still in the mix and right now, Florida is the sexy pick. Plus, Patterson has developed a great relationship with another unsigned recruit, Jai Lucas and many believe Patterson will go where he goes. I get the same feeling...
With that said, I hope I am proved wrong but if he doesn't come, don't start feeling bad for Duke. I think from offensive and chemistry standpoints, they will much improved. McRoberts was Mr. Versatile for them but from what you read, no one was shedding any tears in that lockerroom when he decided to declare. Supposedly, he gave off the persona to the entire team that he was better than they were and the college game was beneath him.
Out of the following guys: Paulus, Sheyer, Singler, Henderson, would it surprise anyone if any of those guys scored over 15 points a game? It wouldn't surprise me. Like I've been saying, Duke is as talented as any team in the country at the 1-3 positions. If Singler and King are as advertised and Lance Thomas shows why Duke waited until minutes before the 1st game for his decision to go there, then they will be fine at the 4. To me, the season depends on the development of Brian Zoubek. If Zoubek adds some muscle, improves his footwork and defense, then Duke will be a top team. If he looks like he did for most of last year, you're looking at a platoon of Lance Thomas, Kyle Singler, and David McClure at the 5 position. Duke will get killed down low if that happens.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Desperate Measures
I just read an article saying that Billy Guillespe promised Patrick Patterson 16-20 shots a game next year. I know he's dying to make an early splash at Kentucky but this is a little desperate and all he's doing is breeding selfishness and undisciplined play. I wonder how the returning stars on this team feel about their new coach giving away a third of their shots to a freshman who hasn't even signed yet and whose mother verbally bashed Kentucky a few weeks ago. Yeah, that makes sense Billy. Listen, I know you had to pursuade good players to go to garbage schools like UTEP and Texas A&M but at Kentucky, it's called putting in some legitimate work. Hmmm, I wonder if he's promising the same thing to Jai Lucas, another unsigned recruit. That means that the kids like Crawford and Bobby Perry who busted their asses this year will essentially have no shots this year. That's nice.
If you ever read any of K's books, he always mentions one thing: he never promises playing time even if it involves a big name recruit because it breeds a "me" persona and doesn't lead to a team environment. Here's what he can promise you Patrick, that Billy cannot. How about national TV every single game? How about playing for a coach that has produced 38 NBA Draft Selections. Billy has produced one and that is if you include Acie Law who he inherited from the previous regime. Don't be stupid, don't buy into promises from a desperate man. Yes, he's a good up and coming coach but you have the chance to play for a legend who as recently as two years ago, made two guys lottery picks that had less talent than you supposedly do. Think about it...
If you ever read any of K's books, he always mentions one thing: he never promises playing time even if it involves a big name recruit because it breeds a "me" persona and doesn't lead to a team environment. Here's what he can promise you Patrick, that Billy cannot. How about national TV every single game? How about playing for a coach that has produced 38 NBA Draft Selections. Billy has produced one and that is if you include Acie Law who he inherited from the previous regime. Don't be stupid, don't buy into promises from a desperate man. Yes, he's a good up and coming coach but you have the chance to play for a legend who as recently as two years ago, made two guys lottery picks that had less talent than you supposedly do. Think about it...
Sunday, April 22, 2007
My "Sources"
If I've given anybody any inclination whatsoever that I "have sources" then I apologize. I am a 23-year old graduate student who loves college basketball. That is all. Any data on my blog is secondary data. I take what I read from more reputable sites and give my opinions. The only service I am trying to provide is one that conveys a unique brand of knowledge, humor, and at times, sarcasm on events directly or indirectly related to college basketball and more importantly, Duke.
If a Duke fan or a college basketball fan is looking for investigative reporting from this blog then I can surely direct you guys to sites that have much more substance. If you're looking for a truly tremendous Duke blog that has as close an inside look as anyone on the Internet, then you need to look no further than Mark Watson's blog, which is linked on this site. If you want up to the minute news on Duke basketball then you should go to either dukereport.com, dukeupdate.com, or dukebasketballreport.com. If you're looking for up to the minute facts on the upcoming draft then I direct you to either draftexpress.com or nbadraft.net.
If you are a Duke fan or a college basketball fan and you're looking for an alternative and at times, knowledgable view on the events of previous games, players, and coaches, then you are more than welcome to read this blog. I welcome all viewers and readers and I love to receive constructive criticism so keep it coming. From now on, I will either document my sources better or I will simply link you up to a site that I think you should be reading.
If a Duke fan or a college basketball fan is looking for investigative reporting from this blog then I can surely direct you guys to sites that have much more substance. If you're looking for a truly tremendous Duke blog that has as close an inside look as anyone on the Internet, then you need to look no further than Mark Watson's blog, which is linked on this site. If you want up to the minute news on Duke basketball then you should go to either dukereport.com, dukeupdate.com, or dukebasketballreport.com. If you're looking for up to the minute facts on the upcoming draft then I direct you to either draftexpress.com or nbadraft.net.
If you are a Duke fan or a college basketball fan and you're looking for an alternative and at times, knowledgable view on the events of previous games, players, and coaches, then you are more than welcome to read this blog. I welcome all viewers and readers and I love to receive constructive criticism so keep it coming. From now on, I will either document my sources better or I will simply link you up to a site that I think you should be reading.
The Wright Move
After worrying that he would come back and haunt my dreams for another year, Brandon Wright will declare for the NBA Draft on Monday morning. When you're a Top 3 pick, you can't pass that up for any reason even if you want to win a national title and you enjoy school. He had the potential to be a great collegiate player and go down as one of the all-time great players at Carolina but I think I speak for all Duke fans when I say: GOOD RIDDANCE!
Who else is left with 1st Round Potential?
From what I hear, Thaddeus Young may actually stick around at Tech for another year. Supposedly, when Julian Wright and foreign phenom Nicolas Batum both declared for the draft, Young started thinking twice about the draft since both of those guys play the same position and they would surely be taken ahead of him. He's projected as a late first round pick and a guy with that type of elite talent could never fall to the 2nd Round but I think it would be wise for him to stay another year.
With that said, it looks like his buddy Javaris Crittenton is gone. Again, I think he will taken in the 1st Round especially in a weak PG draft but he certainly isn't ready. However, with 2008 surely to be a guard-heavy draft, bouncing may be wise.
Still no word on Brandon Rush but all indications is that he will be staying. Like I've said in previous posts, I think he'll learn from the mistakes of his two brothers and come back for another year or two.
Sean Williams, the talented bum that got kicked out of BC, will hire an agent and enter the Draft according to draftexpress.com. He will probably slip to the 2nd Round because of questions about his commitment and character not based on talent. If he can convince a team he is a changed man, he has 1st Round talent. BRB hates to compare people or say "this is the next..." but if Sean turns his life around off the court, he could be another Ben Wallace.
No word on Hasheem Thabeet. He has lottery potential but he is nowhere near ready to play at the next level and could be like Jermaine O'Neal was with Portland. It may take him 3 or 4 years to make any type of significant contribution on an NBA team. If I was a GM, I'd pass because I think he's a guy that will always be about the "P" word and never actually fulfill it. Dread Calhoun, dread UCONN, but he should go back.
Still no word on Gerald Henderson. I know Chad Ford said he was 50/50 but I can't see him actually considering this especially with his buddy Ellington sticking around college as well. Gerald, come out of your shell next year, you and Kyle Singler will be one hell of a 1-2 punch.
More on the draft when I hear something...
Who else is left with 1st Round Potential?
From what I hear, Thaddeus Young may actually stick around at Tech for another year. Supposedly, when Julian Wright and foreign phenom Nicolas Batum both declared for the draft, Young started thinking twice about the draft since both of those guys play the same position and they would surely be taken ahead of him. He's projected as a late first round pick and a guy with that type of elite talent could never fall to the 2nd Round but I think it would be wise for him to stay another year.
With that said, it looks like his buddy Javaris Crittenton is gone. Again, I think he will taken in the 1st Round especially in a weak PG draft but he certainly isn't ready. However, with 2008 surely to be a guard-heavy draft, bouncing may be wise.
Still no word on Brandon Rush but all indications is that he will be staying. Like I've said in previous posts, I think he'll learn from the mistakes of his two brothers and come back for another year or two.
Sean Williams, the talented bum that got kicked out of BC, will hire an agent and enter the Draft according to draftexpress.com. He will probably slip to the 2nd Round because of questions about his commitment and character not based on talent. If he can convince a team he is a changed man, he has 1st Round talent. BRB hates to compare people or say "this is the next..." but if Sean turns his life around off the court, he could be another Ben Wallace.
No word on Hasheem Thabeet. He has lottery potential but he is nowhere near ready to play at the next level and could be like Jermaine O'Neal was with Portland. It may take him 3 or 4 years to make any type of significant contribution on an NBA team. If I was a GM, I'd pass because I think he's a guy that will always be about the "P" word and never actually fulfill it. Dread Calhoun, dread UCONN, but he should go back.
Still no word on Gerald Henderson. I know Chad Ford said he was 50/50 but I can't see him actually considering this especially with his buddy Ellington sticking around college as well. Gerald, come out of your shell next year, you and Kyle Singler will be one hell of a 1-2 punch.
More on the draft when I hear something...
Thursday, April 19, 2007
The Grand Daddy Of All The Early Entries
It's official, Greg Oden has entered the NBA Draft. No big surprises here but along with him, Mike Conley Jr. and Daquean Cook have also entered the draft. I would be utterly shocked if Oden didn't go #1 unless some team that had a halfway decent low post got the first pick. If it turns out to be Memphis or Boston, Oden will be #1 pick. Don't feel bad for the team that gets the #2 pick though considering Kevin Durant is on the board. In fact, if Brandon Wright finally declares, if you get the #3 pick, yeah you can be a little disappointed, but you're still getting a franchise player. The team that ends up with the 4th pick is clearly the biggest loser of the draft.
For Oden, this was the smart move. I mean let's get real here: hundreds of millions of dollars or the history of rock n' roll class? Please. For Conley, this is the smart move. He rode the big mans coattails to Ohio State, to the National Title Game, and he should use the big guy to land him a spot in the lottery. Unless Acie Law impresses in his workouts, Conley will be the first PG off the board. For Cook, it's a head scratcher. I think he kissed his Ohio State days away when his mother opened her big mouth and said she didnt like Thad Matta anymore. Now, unless he wows scouts, he's a second round pick with no guaranteed contract. Daquean, word of advice: if you're that good, transfer! Go to a school that will be in the limelight and where you will play in 2009 and then declare. With a load of talent in this draft, I think he's making a huge mistake.
In other news, Darren Collison said he's coming back to UCLA. Good move for Collison, he's a very good college player but his wiry frame would be exposed by most NBA guards. He needs to add muscle and improve his shooting.
DJ White is staying in school. I have a question: Where did people think he was going? DJ, you'll never play any significant minutes in the NBA until you cut out the cheeseburger runs at 1AM. Get in shape!
Shaun Pruitt from Illinois is testing the waters. Shaun, let me tell you something about those waters, you will drown! Go back to school, get your degree and at some point during the semester go down to City Hall, get a passport and pack your bags for Europe.
On a Duke note, the Blue Devils have renewed their annual matchups with Michigan now that Tommy Amaker is gone. I will say this, Duke is better than they are right now but with Beilein and his backdoor cuts and Duke's stubbornness to play man-to-man, that could be an upset next year.
Most of the possible 1st Rounders have declared for the Draft already. Still waiting word on Wright and Thabeet from UCONN. I'm pretty sure all other big timers have declared. More when I know it...
As always, my thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the Virginia Tech victims...
For Oden, this was the smart move. I mean let's get real here: hundreds of millions of dollars or the history of rock n' roll class? Please. For Conley, this is the smart move. He rode the big mans coattails to Ohio State, to the National Title Game, and he should use the big guy to land him a spot in the lottery. Unless Acie Law impresses in his workouts, Conley will be the first PG off the board. For Cook, it's a head scratcher. I think he kissed his Ohio State days away when his mother opened her big mouth and said she didnt like Thad Matta anymore. Now, unless he wows scouts, he's a second round pick with no guaranteed contract. Daquean, word of advice: if you're that good, transfer! Go to a school that will be in the limelight and where you will play in 2009 and then declare. With a load of talent in this draft, I think he's making a huge mistake.
In other news, Darren Collison said he's coming back to UCLA. Good move for Collison, he's a very good college player but his wiry frame would be exposed by most NBA guards. He needs to add muscle and improve his shooting.
DJ White is staying in school. I have a question: Where did people think he was going? DJ, you'll never play any significant minutes in the NBA until you cut out the cheeseburger runs at 1AM. Get in shape!
Shaun Pruitt from Illinois is testing the waters. Shaun, let me tell you something about those waters, you will drown! Go back to school, get your degree and at some point during the semester go down to City Hall, get a passport and pack your bags for Europe.
On a Duke note, the Blue Devils have renewed their annual matchups with Michigan now that Tommy Amaker is gone. I will say this, Duke is better than they are right now but with Beilein and his backdoor cuts and Duke's stubbornness to play man-to-man, that could be an upset next year.
Most of the possible 1st Rounders have declared for the Draft already. Still waiting word on Wright and Thabeet from UCONN. I'm pretty sure all other big timers have declared. More when I know it...
As always, my thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the Virginia Tech victims...
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
G Money?
I just read the Chad Ford article about who is in and who is out for this year's draft? I was shocked to come across that he considers Gerald Henderson 50/50 on whether he will enter this year's draft. I sure hope his information is wrong for both Gerald and the Duke program. Right now, they consider him a 2nd Round pick to undrafted...
ACC-Big Ten Challenge
Even though it's really hard to talk basketball again after what transpired yesterday, the schedule was released for the ACC-Big Ten Challenge. Duke will play Wisconsin in Cameron Indoor Stadium, probably the last week of November or first week of December. I was under the assumption that a team alternates playing at home every other year in this challenge. I guess I was wrong because Duke played Indiana in Cameron last season...
Without Tucker and Taylor, that game should be much easier than it would'v been last season.
Without Tucker and Taylor, that game should be much easier than it would'v been last season.
A Massacre of Epic Proportions
The events that unfolded in Blacksburg yesterday were unfathomable, senseless, and puzzling. I can't imagine what those families are going through right now trying to cope with such a horrific and gruesome tragedy. I will leave the specifics and the second guessing to the media and just give out my thoughts and prayers...
Monday, April 16, 2007
Tragedy in Blacksburg
At least 22 people are dead after a gunman opened fire on the Virginia Tech campus. This really makes you put life into perspective...
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Early Entries #4
I'm a little behind here but here's the latest. Even though Greg Oden's dad seems to think he will declare for the draft, his soon-to-be agent, Mike Conley Sr. says he hasn't made up his mind. Let's be fair here, I can't take him actually coming back seriously until he actually does it. I'm an advocate of staying in school but unfortunately in this day and age of guaranteed contracts and millions of dollars, he has to leave school even if he likes it there.
According to sources, Nick Young will declare for the draft and hire an agent, which would eliminate any chance of returning to USC. He's definitely a first round pick and with OJ Mayo coming into Southern Cal next year, there might not be enough basketballs on the court for the two of them. I also look for Young's teammate, Gabe Pruitt, to bounce to the draft and I wouldn't be surprised if Taj Gibson explored his options after he dominated Hansbrough in the tournament before getting into foul trouble.
Jeff Green and Roy Hibbert both declared but according to John Thompson III, they will not declare agents, at least not yet. To me, this is the smart move for both of these guys especially Jeff Green. Green is the reigning Big East POY and he showed he could be a go-to guy at the end of games especially against Vandy even though he probably travelled. To me, he is the most NBA ready prospect out there considering his skills, his intellect, and his versatility. As for Hibbert, he could use more schooling since he isn't a finished product by any means but his stock will never be higher so he needs to go while he's hot.
According to draftexpress.com, Chris Lofton will explore his options and declare for the draft but sign an agent. If you read some of his quotes, even he believes he isn't ready to make the jump but I think he wants to use the process for a little constructive criticism. Chris, save your money, I'll tell you what you need to do. You have to do what JJ Redick did after his sophomore season: get yourself in top of the line shape and prove that you can take the ball to the rim. If you can do that by this time next year, you could play yourself into the first round. He will land on a team even if he doesn't improve though because he is too good of a shooter and that's one thing the NBA sorely lacks.
I've been reading that players like Joe Mays from Clemson, Wilson Chandler from DePaul, and Joey Dorsey from Memphis will declare. Word of advice: DONT! That simple, stay in school, work on your games, enjoy college, get a degree. If you declare, at least Mays and Chandler should get their passports ready because they will go undrafted and end up overseas. The self-proclaimed "Underrated" Joey Dorsey could land himself on a team because of his rebounding and many say he will declare because he's an old junior. Joey, I have two words for you with that argument: Alexander Johnson. Is he even still alive?
Still no news on Brandon Wright and this is starting to scare me a bit. If he comes back, it would be a mortal sin if Carolina didn't win the National Championship. Also, if he comes back, I don't care how good Kyle Singler can be, you can practically pencil in two L's for Duke.
That's it for now but with NBA defections, it's usually more inevitable than anything.
According to sources, Nick Young will declare for the draft and hire an agent, which would eliminate any chance of returning to USC. He's definitely a first round pick and with OJ Mayo coming into Southern Cal next year, there might not be enough basketballs on the court for the two of them. I also look for Young's teammate, Gabe Pruitt, to bounce to the draft and I wouldn't be surprised if Taj Gibson explored his options after he dominated Hansbrough in the tournament before getting into foul trouble.
Jeff Green and Roy Hibbert both declared but according to John Thompson III, they will not declare agents, at least not yet. To me, this is the smart move for both of these guys especially Jeff Green. Green is the reigning Big East POY and he showed he could be a go-to guy at the end of games especially against Vandy even though he probably travelled. To me, he is the most NBA ready prospect out there considering his skills, his intellect, and his versatility. As for Hibbert, he could use more schooling since he isn't a finished product by any means but his stock will never be higher so he needs to go while he's hot.
According to draftexpress.com, Chris Lofton will explore his options and declare for the draft but sign an agent. If you read some of his quotes, even he believes he isn't ready to make the jump but I think he wants to use the process for a little constructive criticism. Chris, save your money, I'll tell you what you need to do. You have to do what JJ Redick did after his sophomore season: get yourself in top of the line shape and prove that you can take the ball to the rim. If you can do that by this time next year, you could play yourself into the first round. He will land on a team even if he doesn't improve though because he is too good of a shooter and that's one thing the NBA sorely lacks.
I've been reading that players like Joe Mays from Clemson, Wilson Chandler from DePaul, and Joey Dorsey from Memphis will declare. Word of advice: DONT! That simple, stay in school, work on your games, enjoy college, get a degree. If you declare, at least Mays and Chandler should get their passports ready because they will go undrafted and end up overseas. The self-proclaimed "Underrated" Joey Dorsey could land himself on a team because of his rebounding and many say he will declare because he's an old junior. Joey, I have two words for you with that argument: Alexander Johnson. Is he even still alive?
Still no news on Brandon Wright and this is starting to scare me a bit. If he comes back, it would be a mortal sin if Carolina didn't win the National Championship. Also, if he comes back, I don't care how good Kyle Singler can be, you can practically pencil in two L's for Duke.
That's it for now but with NBA defections, it's usually more inevitable than anything.
Anonymous Comment...
Although I get more readers on this blog than anyone would think, I very rarely get comments. However, I did get an anonymous comment to my post "DBR Needs To Go". I have made no qualms about stating my criticism of the Duke Basketball Report and to say that I am some sort of puppet for Duke Report would be mistaken.
With that said, this anonymous commenter has shown me the error of my ways. What was to be a pretty fair criticism of DBR turned into the same ethical, moral and political rant that I was complaining about. I shouldn't have aired my subjective and biased views even though my site is "Subjective and Biased Opinions from a Subjective and Biased Blue Devil Fan" But the key words there are Blue Devil Fan. I will leave my subjectivity to Duke and the rest of the college basketball world and nothing else.
I don't plan on boycotting DBR even though I said I would. I guess I was just in a bad mood that day. Even though I am showing some humility here, that doesn't mean that I still don't have issues with the site. They are way too fluffy and only see things one way and I think their site, since it's so popular and nationwide, sometimes feeds into the Duke haters hands. Contrary to what this anonymous commenter believes, I do read most of their articles and posts in their entirety. I did read the Nifong/Imus post. What I am trying to say is that you can't compare these guys in the first place and there was no need to make the comparison.
With everything said, BRB is issuing an apology to all those offended by my political and demographical post. I will stick to what gives me the most pleasure from now on and that's college basketball and mainly Duke. I will not take down my post because I am not someone who believes in revisionist history but I appreciate the comment. At times, even the most subjective people need to take a step back and look at things from another point of view and I have. I have seen the error in my ways.
With that said, this anonymous commenter has shown me the error of my ways. What was to be a pretty fair criticism of DBR turned into the same ethical, moral and political rant that I was complaining about. I shouldn't have aired my subjective and biased views even though my site is "Subjective and Biased Opinions from a Subjective and Biased Blue Devil Fan" But the key words there are Blue Devil Fan. I will leave my subjectivity to Duke and the rest of the college basketball world and nothing else.
I don't plan on boycotting DBR even though I said I would. I guess I was just in a bad mood that day. Even though I am showing some humility here, that doesn't mean that I still don't have issues with the site. They are way too fluffy and only see things one way and I think their site, since it's so popular and nationwide, sometimes feeds into the Duke haters hands. Contrary to what this anonymous commenter believes, I do read most of their articles and posts in their entirety. I did read the Nifong/Imus post. What I am trying to say is that you can't compare these guys in the first place and there was no need to make the comparison.
With everything said, BRB is issuing an apology to all those offended by my political and demographical post. I will stick to what gives me the most pleasure from now on and that's college basketball and mainly Duke. I will not take down my post because I am not someone who believes in revisionist history but I appreciate the comment. At times, even the most subjective people need to take a step back and look at things from another point of view and I have. I have seen the error in my ways.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Early Entries #3
Here's where the process starts becoming comical. Sean Singletary, according to Andy Katz, is going to forego his senior season at UVA and go to the pros where he is more than likely not going to be a 1st Round draft pick. The chances Virginia repeats the year they had this year next year is far-fetched at best considering they are losing JR Reynolds and Jason Cain. Unless they somehow pull lightning out of a bottle and grab Patterson, they will be worse. However, Sean, stick around, have a degree to fall back on and then bounce to the 2nd Round and work your ass off to get on a team.
Marcel Jones from Oregon State is declaring for the draft and he's claiming "he justs wants to hear constructive criticism on his game." Marcel, let me save you the trouble, they will say you will not be drafted this year or next year and if you want to continue playing organized basketball, go grab a passport. Hate to be harsh...
According to most, Brandon Rush is gone at KU. He's certainly a first round talent but he should have learned his lesson from his two brothers, who were also highly regarded, that are nowhere to be found in the professional ranks. Hang around Kansas one more year and go for a national championship.
The big news yesterday was that Coach Thad Matta expects Greg Oden, Mike Conley, and Daquean Cook to all declare for the draft after one season in Columbus. Greg, so long, enjoy the #1 pick and huge endorsement deals. Mike, this is a good move for you and your money grubbing dad who conveniently just became an NBA agent. Your stock will never be higher so ride the big mans coattails all the way to a mulit-million dollar deal. As for Cook, this is a tough one. Early in the year when Oden was shelved with the wrist injury, Cook looked like a lock first round pick but then he either slept with Thad Matta's wife or just stopped practicing hard because he didn't get any minutes down the stretch. Outside of a big 3 against Xavier in OT, he was nowhere to be found on the Buckeye's title run. If he bounces, he will have to play himself into a 1st Rounder at pre-draft camps.
Just a little nibble on Duke here. The more and more I look at it, I just can't understand why Josh McRoberts declared for the draft this year. It really isn't the smart move. In fact, even if he would've dazzled this year, this draft is going to be loaded with good, front-line players. Why not stick around another year? At worst, outside of an injury, you'll be back in the same spot you're in right now, which seems to be between picks 17-25. If he would've improved, even marginally next year and bounced, he would've been in the lottery with that draft likely to be dominated by guards and teams would jump on a big man with his versatility in a second. Bad job Josh...
More when I hear...
Marcel Jones from Oregon State is declaring for the draft and he's claiming "he justs wants to hear constructive criticism on his game." Marcel, let me save you the trouble, they will say you will not be drafted this year or next year and if you want to continue playing organized basketball, go grab a passport. Hate to be harsh...
According to most, Brandon Rush is gone at KU. He's certainly a first round talent but he should have learned his lesson from his two brothers, who were also highly regarded, that are nowhere to be found in the professional ranks. Hang around Kansas one more year and go for a national championship.
The big news yesterday was that Coach Thad Matta expects Greg Oden, Mike Conley, and Daquean Cook to all declare for the draft after one season in Columbus. Greg, so long, enjoy the #1 pick and huge endorsement deals. Mike, this is a good move for you and your money grubbing dad who conveniently just became an NBA agent. Your stock will never be higher so ride the big mans coattails all the way to a mulit-million dollar deal. As for Cook, this is a tough one. Early in the year when Oden was shelved with the wrist injury, Cook looked like a lock first round pick but then he either slept with Thad Matta's wife or just stopped practicing hard because he didn't get any minutes down the stretch. Outside of a big 3 against Xavier in OT, he was nowhere to be found on the Buckeye's title run. If he bounces, he will have to play himself into a 1st Rounder at pre-draft camps.
Just a little nibble on Duke here. The more and more I look at it, I just can't understand why Josh McRoberts declared for the draft this year. It really isn't the smart move. In fact, even if he would've dazzled this year, this draft is going to be loaded with good, front-line players. Why not stick around another year? At worst, outside of an injury, you'll be back in the same spot you're in right now, which seems to be between picks 17-25. If he would've improved, even marginally next year and bounced, he would've been in the lottery with that draft likely to be dominated by guards and teams would jump on a big man with his versatility in a second. Bad job Josh...
More when I hear...
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Early Entries #2
Kevin Durant made it official today by announcing he will enter the NBA Draft. I'm all about education but anyone in his position would be stupid not to jump to the pros now. BRB Prediction: #2 pick
Julian Wright from Kansas, who has insisted that he would stay at Kansas, announced he will enter the NBA Draft as well. Julian is an NBA talent but like Josh McRoberts, should've bounced last year if he was going to go early. He has tremendous athleticism and length but he couldn't throw the ball into the ocean. If he develops a jumper by the time workouts come, he could go as high as #6. BRB Prediction: btw #8-13
Sean Williams, who was thrown off of BC's team this season for marijuana possession, has entered the NBA Draft. He has the most volatile stock in the draft. He is clearly a Top 15 talent but many experts believe he could go undrafted because of his off-court issues. BRB Prediction: A little surprising but I think he will go to the Knicks at the end of the 1st Round (remember they swapped picks in the Eddy Curry Trade). He's a perfect fit for what Isiah Thomas wants to do.
Wayne Ellington announced today he would be sticking around Chapel Hill and Tyler Hansbrough, according to multiple sources, will do the same. Good move for both of these kids. Ellington is just a jump shooter right now, he needs to develop a mid-range game as well before making the jump. Psycho T is a college player not a pro.
Roy Bright also announced he would enter the NBA Draft to see where his stock was. I think I speak for everyone when I say: Who? I had to look it up. He averaged 15 points a game on Delaware State this season after transferring from Cincy. Roy, do yourself a favor and get a degree before you go to Europe to play. BRB Prediction: If there were 4 Rounds, undrafted.
Julian Wright from Kansas, who has insisted that he would stay at Kansas, announced he will enter the NBA Draft as well. Julian is an NBA talent but like Josh McRoberts, should've bounced last year if he was going to go early. He has tremendous athleticism and length but he couldn't throw the ball into the ocean. If he develops a jumper by the time workouts come, he could go as high as #6. BRB Prediction: btw #8-13
Sean Williams, who was thrown off of BC's team this season for marijuana possession, has entered the NBA Draft. He has the most volatile stock in the draft. He is clearly a Top 15 talent but many experts believe he could go undrafted because of his off-court issues. BRB Prediction: A little surprising but I think he will go to the Knicks at the end of the 1st Round (remember they swapped picks in the Eddy Curry Trade). He's a perfect fit for what Isiah Thomas wants to do.
Wayne Ellington announced today he would be sticking around Chapel Hill and Tyler Hansbrough, according to multiple sources, will do the same. Good move for both of these kids. Ellington is just a jump shooter right now, he needs to develop a mid-range game as well before making the jump. Psycho T is a college player not a pro.
Roy Bright also announced he would enter the NBA Draft to see where his stock was. I think I speak for everyone when I say: Who? I had to look it up. He averaged 15 points a game on Delaware State this season after transferring from Cincy. Roy, do yourself a favor and get a degree before you go to Europe to play. BRB Prediction: If there were 4 Rounds, undrafted.
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Early Entries
According to multiple sources, Kevin Durant will make the inevitable, evitable next week and declare for the NBA Draft.
There is also word that Dominic James, despite falling into a horrific slump at the end of the year, will declare for the NBA Draft.
Despite what I've thought all along, according to draftexpress.com, Ty Lawson will be staying at North Carolina next season. In fact, he's told a number of sources that he has a better chance of staying all four years and build a legacy than he does of leaving early. Wow! If that happens, with or without Brandon Wright, they should be the consensus #1 going into next year.
According to draftexpress.com, Nick Fazekes dropped out of school to focus on the NBA and his game. There should be a rule that protects against that. Don't think that this just happens to a no-name school like Nevada. This same thing happened to Duke in 2000 when Chris Carrawell dropped out of school to work on his game. Where is he now? Let's just say he's closer to washing peoples cars than he is to the NBA.
Spencer Hawes, according to sources, will declare for the NBA Draft but not sign an agent. Even though he was hurt most of the year and his team sucked, I saw him play this year and he may very well be the most skilled big man in the country, in regards to using both hands, passing ability, and shooting touch. Problem for Spencer is that he's nowhere near the most intriguing big man prospect in the Draft.
Finally, the Big Four from Florida all declared for the NBA Draft earlier this week. Good for them. Although it looks like none of them could win a 3rd Grade Spelling Bee, they really showed what college athletics is all about. They came back, left the money behind, and sought after another national championship.
More on the draft as news breaks but the major story here for Duke fans is Ty Lawson. With Lawson next year and the possibility of only losing Brandon Wright, which isn't set in stone yet, really makes UNC the favorite to win the ACC again...
There is also word that Dominic James, despite falling into a horrific slump at the end of the year, will declare for the NBA Draft.
Despite what I've thought all along, according to draftexpress.com, Ty Lawson will be staying at North Carolina next season. In fact, he's told a number of sources that he has a better chance of staying all four years and build a legacy than he does of leaving early. Wow! If that happens, with or without Brandon Wright, they should be the consensus #1 going into next year.
According to draftexpress.com, Nick Fazekes dropped out of school to focus on the NBA and his game. There should be a rule that protects against that. Don't think that this just happens to a no-name school like Nevada. This same thing happened to Duke in 2000 when Chris Carrawell dropped out of school to work on his game. Where is he now? Let's just say he's closer to washing peoples cars than he is to the NBA.
Spencer Hawes, according to sources, will declare for the NBA Draft but not sign an agent. Even though he was hurt most of the year and his team sucked, I saw him play this year and he may very well be the most skilled big man in the country, in regards to using both hands, passing ability, and shooting touch. Problem for Spencer is that he's nowhere near the most intriguing big man prospect in the Draft.
Finally, the Big Four from Florida all declared for the NBA Draft earlier this week. Good for them. Although it looks like none of them could win a 3rd Grade Spelling Bee, they really showed what college athletics is all about. They came back, left the money behind, and sought after another national championship.
More on the draft as news breaks but the major story here for Duke fans is Ty Lawson. With Lawson next year and the possibility of only losing Brandon Wright, which isn't set in stone yet, really makes UNC the favorite to win the ACC again...
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Open Letter To Patrick Patterson
Dear Patrick,
This must be Hell for you. Every time you think you've made up your mind, another coach bails on his commitment to you and the school. Tubby Smith, who was beloved by your mother, bounced from Kentucky amidst pressure from crazy Kentucky boosters. If you still decide to go to Kentucky, with Donovan or another coach, you will instantly play down low. Problem is your supporting cast is terrible and that's saying something considering they still may get Jai Lucas. For those reasons, lets check Kentucky off your list.
John Beilien offered you a scholarship to stay home and play for him at West Virginia. Although you wouldn't have fit into the system, he's an excellent coach with a successful track record. Problem is Beilien is on his way to Ann Arbor to take over Tommy Amaker. Unless Jerry West becomes the coach, lets check West Virginia off your list.
Let's group Wake Forest and Virginia together. Both have places for you down low right away but let's face it, even if Virginia keeps Sean Singletary, the rest of the supporting cast is meager at best with the departure of JR Reynolds. As for Wake, they have some promising players but they are still a few years away. Plus, if you're going to head to the ACC, why go to Virginia and Wake when you can go to Duke and play for a hall of fame coach, play on a historic court, and be on national television every single game until your reputation catapults you to the pros. For those reasons, lets check Virginia and Wake off your list.
That leaves the two front runners: Duke and Florida. Florida is the sexy pick right now. They are coming off two national championships in a row. They have the hot, young coach and with an expected exodus, you will play right away. Problem is that they may not have the hot, young coach. Donovan refused to answer questions on his future or Kentucky. Personally, I don't think he's going to Kentucky. However, I can see him bolting to the Orlando Magic after they fire Brian Hill and offer him more money than he'll ever know what to do with. Think about it, it's a better move for him than Kentucky. He won't win a 3rd consecutive title at Florida next year and he'll be able to keep his family in Florida where he just built a Catholic School in the area. For these reasons and uncertainties, if you had to make your decision today, lets check Florida off your list.
Oh, what a coincidence, this only leaves Duke. There is no need to worry about coach stability at Duke. Coach K has entertained his last offer from the pros. Although they struggled at times last year, you would be joining 8 fellow McDonald's All-Americans. Go to Duke and you will play with the greatest coach of this ERA in front of a national audience every single night. What a perfect forum for you to showcase your immense ability for NBA scouts. Go to Duke and you will play on the most historic court of all-time. Go to Duke and despite being in the presence of 8 McDonald's All-Americans, you will immediately step into the 5 spot at Duke. You, plus a strong supporting cast, would equal a very good chance at making Final 4's and winning national championships. To me, it's a no-brainer. It should only be between two teams and if you want stability, pack your bags for Durham.
Sincerely,
BRB
This must be Hell for you. Every time you think you've made up your mind, another coach bails on his commitment to you and the school. Tubby Smith, who was beloved by your mother, bounced from Kentucky amidst pressure from crazy Kentucky boosters. If you still decide to go to Kentucky, with Donovan or another coach, you will instantly play down low. Problem is your supporting cast is terrible and that's saying something considering they still may get Jai Lucas. For those reasons, lets check Kentucky off your list.
John Beilien offered you a scholarship to stay home and play for him at West Virginia. Although you wouldn't have fit into the system, he's an excellent coach with a successful track record. Problem is Beilien is on his way to Ann Arbor to take over Tommy Amaker. Unless Jerry West becomes the coach, lets check West Virginia off your list.
Let's group Wake Forest and Virginia together. Both have places for you down low right away but let's face it, even if Virginia keeps Sean Singletary, the rest of the supporting cast is meager at best with the departure of JR Reynolds. As for Wake, they have some promising players but they are still a few years away. Plus, if you're going to head to the ACC, why go to Virginia and Wake when you can go to Duke and play for a hall of fame coach, play on a historic court, and be on national television every single game until your reputation catapults you to the pros. For those reasons, lets check Virginia and Wake off your list.
That leaves the two front runners: Duke and Florida. Florida is the sexy pick right now. They are coming off two national championships in a row. They have the hot, young coach and with an expected exodus, you will play right away. Problem is that they may not have the hot, young coach. Donovan refused to answer questions on his future or Kentucky. Personally, I don't think he's going to Kentucky. However, I can see him bolting to the Orlando Magic after they fire Brian Hill and offer him more money than he'll ever know what to do with. Think about it, it's a better move for him than Kentucky. He won't win a 3rd consecutive title at Florida next year and he'll be able to keep his family in Florida where he just built a Catholic School in the area. For these reasons and uncertainties, if you had to make your decision today, lets check Florida off your list.
Oh, what a coincidence, this only leaves Duke. There is no need to worry about coach stability at Duke. Coach K has entertained his last offer from the pros. Although they struggled at times last year, you would be joining 8 fellow McDonald's All-Americans. Go to Duke and you will play with the greatest coach of this ERA in front of a national audience every single night. What a perfect forum for you to showcase your immense ability for NBA scouts. Go to Duke and you will play on the most historic court of all-time. Go to Duke and despite being in the presence of 8 McDonald's All-Americans, you will immediately step into the 5 spot at Duke. You, plus a strong supporting cast, would equal a very good chance at making Final 4's and winning national championships. To me, it's a no-brainer. It should only be between two teams and if you want stability, pack your bags for Durham.
Sincerely,
BRB
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Objective Opinions Is What This Blue Devil Fan Wants
Recently, the Duke Basketball Report published a piece on Duke and the Media. It was excellent. However, with that said, this site gives Duke haters more and more ammunition. In fact, truthaboutduke.com has a whole piece on this site and their subjective way of looking at things. And even though I dread the Truth About Duke site, they may be onto something. Sure, it's great to support your team and to have optimism but you CANT turn a blind eye when the team doesn't perform or the Coach makes a mistake.
That's why I love dukereport.com. They give you everything you need as a Blue Devil fan and more. They give your basketball news, recruiting news, links to reputable blogs and most of all, they don't shy away from putting anti-Duke opinions up on the site too. My blog, at least I like to think, is as objective as it can be. I love Duke, I bleed royal blue but if Paulus has a bad game against VA Tech, I'm going to say it or McRoberts looks like he isn't on Planet Earth, I say it and if Coach K makes a mistake, I point it out. In order to be taken seriously, you have to.
Getting back to dukereport.com. In addition to linking us up with all of the items we need as Blue Devil fans, they also have a forum for Duke fans and they are in the progress of developing a website-wide blog themselves and get this, if you show to them that your credentials are good enough and your writing style is eloquent enough, they will let you write on the site. You can't go wrong there.
Again, though, the thing you love about this site is that it doesn't hide from negative Duke opinions. They link up blogs on Fan House and they don't hesitate to point out a problem with the program. At least for this Blue Devil fan, I can take them much more seriously than other fluffy Duke sites.
That's why I love dukereport.com. They give you everything you need as a Blue Devil fan and more. They give your basketball news, recruiting news, links to reputable blogs and most of all, they don't shy away from putting anti-Duke opinions up on the site too. My blog, at least I like to think, is as objective as it can be. I love Duke, I bleed royal blue but if Paulus has a bad game against VA Tech, I'm going to say it or McRoberts looks like he isn't on Planet Earth, I say it and if Coach K makes a mistake, I point it out. In order to be taken seriously, you have to.
Getting back to dukereport.com. In addition to linking us up with all of the items we need as Blue Devil fans, they also have a forum for Duke fans and they are in the progress of developing a website-wide blog themselves and get this, if you show to them that your credentials are good enough and your writing style is eloquent enough, they will let you write on the site. You can't go wrong there.
Again, though, the thing you love about this site is that it doesn't hide from negative Duke opinions. They link up blogs on Fan House and they don't hesitate to point out a problem with the program. At least for this Blue Devil fan, I can take them much more seriously than other fluffy Duke sites.
Duke #23 in Katz's First Look At 2007-08
Andy Katz has Duke as #23 in his first poll after the national championship game. Last year, he had them at #11 and that was after the departure of All-Americans JJ Redick and Shelden Williams. This just shows how much this season hurt the perception of the Duke empire. According to Katz, he gives off the impression he had to beg to get Duke on the list at all after McRoberts decided to bolt to the NBA. I'm not saying he's completely off here but I think Duke will be better than that when all is said and done even if Patrick Patterson never steps foot on campus. Assuming Patterson goes to Florida, which is the sexy school right now, Duke's glaring weakness will be down low. Can the combination of Lance Thomas, Brian Zoubek, David McClure and at times, newcomer Kyle Singler stop the bleeding? I think only time will tell. If all of these guys hang around, which without Patterson seems likely, I think Thomas will have a breakout season. I think he will come in with a chip on his shoulder from last year and really show why Duke was willing to wait until the 11th hour for his decision to come to Durham last season. I never think Brian Zoubek will realize his potential at Duke. The system doesn't have room for a slow-footed, traditional 7 footer who plays with his back to the basket. McClure, unless he improves his offense dramatically, should be an intangibles guy again next year but don't look for him to emerge out of his shell any time soon.
The X-factor, assuming Patterson bolts to Florida, will be Singler. He has to be as good as advertised for Duke to remain in the national spotlight. I think the backcourt will be fine. Assuming no injuries, I like the trio of Paulus, Sheyer, and newcomer Nolan Smith. I think Duke is absolutely loaded at that 3rd guard/Small Forward position with DeMarcus Nelson being their defensive stopper, Gerald Henderson will be the best player on this team next season (you heard it here)and newcomer Taylor King bringing a sweet touch off the bench. In fact, at positions 1-3, Duke is as talented and deep as any team in the country. If Patterson surprises us and comes to Duke for the television exposure, this team has to shoot up the list to at least #15.
Elsewhere, Katz has Kansas as the #1 team in the country. Assuming what we think we know right now, I can't disagree with that at all. He has UCLA as #2, who if I had to pick a champion for next year right now, it would be UCLA. I just think Afflalo will be back because Corey Brewer killed him again, Collison will be better and if Kevin Love is as good as advertised, they will be improved offensively in the post, a problem that plagued them against Florida.
Katz has Carolina at #3. That I don't disagree with. I do disagree with his notion that they may keep all of their players. Brandon Wright is gone. That is a foregone conclusion to me. He is a lock at #3, he has to go. If reports are correct, Ty Lawson stopped going to class because he decided in February that he's gone. I do think they will keep Hansbrough because Pyscho T is smart enough to realize he's a collegiate star and nothing more than a role player in the NBA. Even with those departures, they will solid. If Katz is correct, there is no way Carolina isn't the #1 team come November. No way!
I have an issue with Ohio State at #5. Oden has already packed his bags and he won't be attending History of Rockin Roll class anymore. He will be the #1 pick and enjoy a hall of fame career in the pros. If Mike Conley is smart, he bounces to the pros on Oden's coattails in a weak PG draft. Next year, the draft will be loaded with guards like OJ Mayo, Derrick Rose, Eric Gordon etc...
If USC returns all of their players and add Mayo then there is no reason USC isn't ranked higher than UCLA. However, I definitely think they will lose Nick Young and Taj Gibson would be well-advised to bounce after he dominated Hansbrough in the Sweet 16. Gabe Pruitt should return. Him and Mayo make a great 1-2 punch.
Teams I don't like ahead of Duke:
Washington State (I need more than a year to see if this program is legit)
Gonzaga (Katz is assuming Heytfelt is coming back, I'm not so sure and Few may bolt to Kentucky)
Arizona (I think they will lose Williams and possibly Buddinger. They already lose Shakur and Radenovic, Lute is getting old)
Oregon (Watch the Florida game, Aaron Brooks made this team go, he's gone now. The rest of the team has very good supporting players, that's it)
Texas (Durant is gone, need I say more)
Pitt (They lost their inside game, are you really putting Levance Fields ahead of 8 McDonald's All-Americans at Duke?)
Texas A&M (They need to prove to me that Acie Law wasn't everything to that team because without him, I think you have Oregon, a team full of good supporting players, that's it)
My surprise team getting no play for 2007-08: NC State
Yeah, they lose Atsur but I haven't anything about Costner bouncing and he's a flat-out stud. I love their Top 6 in addition to their big-time McDonald's All-American they just got.
I also love Syracuse to bounce back off of a horrific snub from the NCAA's. They lose Nichols but they get as good of an incoming tandem plus Paul Harris will emerge as a star.
The X-factor, assuming Patterson bolts to Florida, will be Singler. He has to be as good as advertised for Duke to remain in the national spotlight. I think the backcourt will be fine. Assuming no injuries, I like the trio of Paulus, Sheyer, and newcomer Nolan Smith. I think Duke is absolutely loaded at that 3rd guard/Small Forward position with DeMarcus Nelson being their defensive stopper, Gerald Henderson will be the best player on this team next season (you heard it here)and newcomer Taylor King bringing a sweet touch off the bench. In fact, at positions 1-3, Duke is as talented and deep as any team in the country. If Patterson surprises us and comes to Duke for the television exposure, this team has to shoot up the list to at least #15.
Elsewhere, Katz has Kansas as the #1 team in the country. Assuming what we think we know right now, I can't disagree with that at all. He has UCLA as #2, who if I had to pick a champion for next year right now, it would be UCLA. I just think Afflalo will be back because Corey Brewer killed him again, Collison will be better and if Kevin Love is as good as advertised, they will be improved offensively in the post, a problem that plagued them against Florida.
Katz has Carolina at #3. That I don't disagree with. I do disagree with his notion that they may keep all of their players. Brandon Wright is gone. That is a foregone conclusion to me. He is a lock at #3, he has to go. If reports are correct, Ty Lawson stopped going to class because he decided in February that he's gone. I do think they will keep Hansbrough because Pyscho T is smart enough to realize he's a collegiate star and nothing more than a role player in the NBA. Even with those departures, they will solid. If Katz is correct, there is no way Carolina isn't the #1 team come November. No way!
I have an issue with Ohio State at #5. Oden has already packed his bags and he won't be attending History of Rockin Roll class anymore. He will be the #1 pick and enjoy a hall of fame career in the pros. If Mike Conley is smart, he bounces to the pros on Oden's coattails in a weak PG draft. Next year, the draft will be loaded with guards like OJ Mayo, Derrick Rose, Eric Gordon etc...
If USC returns all of their players and add Mayo then there is no reason USC isn't ranked higher than UCLA. However, I definitely think they will lose Nick Young and Taj Gibson would be well-advised to bounce after he dominated Hansbrough in the Sweet 16. Gabe Pruitt should return. Him and Mayo make a great 1-2 punch.
Teams I don't like ahead of Duke:
Washington State (I need more than a year to see if this program is legit)
Gonzaga (Katz is assuming Heytfelt is coming back, I'm not so sure and Few may bolt to Kentucky)
Arizona (I think they will lose Williams and possibly Buddinger. They already lose Shakur and Radenovic, Lute is getting old)
Oregon (Watch the Florida game, Aaron Brooks made this team go, he's gone now. The rest of the team has very good supporting players, that's it)
Texas (Durant is gone, need I say more)
Pitt (They lost their inside game, are you really putting Levance Fields ahead of 8 McDonald's All-Americans at Duke?)
Texas A&M (They need to prove to me that Acie Law wasn't everything to that team because without him, I think you have Oregon, a team full of good supporting players, that's it)
My surprise team getting no play for 2007-08: NC State
Yeah, they lose Atsur but I haven't anything about Costner bouncing and he's a flat-out stud. I love their Top 6 in addition to their big-time McDonald's All-American they just got.
I also love Syracuse to bounce back off of a horrific snub from the NCAA's. They lose Nichols but they get as good of an incoming tandem plus Paul Harris will emerge as a star.
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
The Next K?
First, congratulations to the Gators on their second consecutive national title in basketball. Second, that now makes two championships for Donovan, who is still a very young man. He is 42. Coach K was 45 after his second national title. Unlike K, Donovan has virtually no chance at a 3-peat with most of his star players likely departing for the NBA or graduation. There are rumblings that he is considering the Kentucky job. I highly doubt he'll take that Kentucky job despite the $35 million practice facility the Wildcats have. I really think the only reason he isn't shutting the door completely on taking the job is to use Kentucky as financial leverage for a pay raise at Florida. To me, the only chance Donovan is not back in Gainesville is if he jumps to the NBA. I will say this, if he does, he's an idiot.
Donovan is sitting on a gold mine right now. He's built a powerhouse program that is more than capable of winning many more titles. Why leave? Your family lives in Florida, you just built a Catholic School in Florida that your son attends, and most of all, that court will be named after you. Go to Kentucky and you will never escape the shadow of Rupp and Pitino. Also, unlike Duke, Notre Dame, and even most of the ACC schools, you can get a plant into Florida so it's very easy to recruit the best players. Add that, with the fact they have the best looking girls, the weather is amazing, beaches, great athletic program, and there is no reason to leave. If he stays, I can't see him not landing Patrick Patterson either as much as it pains me to say.
Watching the winning press conference last year, I got really sad because it really feels like Duke is being shoved into the corner of the college basketball world. Teams with superior athleticism and strength are winning championships not the mediocre, cerebral athletes that Duke has used during their great run to national prominence.
There used to be a saying that went around that the only person who could hold Michael Jordan under 20 points was Dean Smith. To me, the only thing that can stop Billy Donovan from becoming an immortal collegiate coach is Billy Donovan. Will the riches of the NBA coupled with the possibility of a down year next year cause him to abandon ship? Only time will tell...
Donovan is sitting on a gold mine right now. He's built a powerhouse program that is more than capable of winning many more titles. Why leave? Your family lives in Florida, you just built a Catholic School in Florida that your son attends, and most of all, that court will be named after you. Go to Kentucky and you will never escape the shadow of Rupp and Pitino. Also, unlike Duke, Notre Dame, and even most of the ACC schools, you can get a plant into Florida so it's very easy to recruit the best players. Add that, with the fact they have the best looking girls, the weather is amazing, beaches, great athletic program, and there is no reason to leave. If he stays, I can't see him not landing Patrick Patterson either as much as it pains me to say.
Watching the winning press conference last year, I got really sad because it really feels like Duke is being shoved into the corner of the college basketball world. Teams with superior athleticism and strength are winning championships not the mediocre, cerebral athletes that Duke has used during their great run to national prominence.
There used to be a saying that went around that the only person who could hold Michael Jordan under 20 points was Dean Smith. To me, the only thing that can stop Billy Donovan from becoming an immortal collegiate coach is Billy Donovan. Will the riches of the NBA coupled with the possibility of a down year next year cause him to abandon ship? Only time will tell...
Gail Bails
Coach K doesn't have any competition for the longest last name at Duke anymore. Duke Women's Basketball Coach left Duke on Tuesday to accept the Texas position. Again, the ladies don't usually get any play on this site but this hurts Duke and their program. Coach G was very reminiscent of Coach K early on. Both had large amounts of success but couldn't win the big one. Obviously, Coach K changed that perception in 1991. However, she didn't stick it out...
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