LFBall On Hoops

SATURDAY STUFF

2012-01-28T07:53:00.000-05:00

Saturday Morning, January 28, 2012

College

Huge day in local area college basketball! Duke comes to town to play St. Johns at The Garden, Seton Hall faces Louisville, and Rutgers takes on Cincinnati. Just in case anyone outside of Parents care, FDU plays against Central Connecticut State Coll.....I mean University as well. Thats the game I will be following. In fact I have my snacks lined up and the radio and TV ready to be turned on. Wait, they are not on TV and the radio signal for their games does not reach much further than 10 miles. Oh well I guess it will have to be Seton Hall, St. Johns, and Rutgers!

Speaking of FDU, the champagne was flowing in the Teaneck/Hackensack area after the Knights of FDU beat powerful Bryant College a few days ago. People were crying in the stands, doves were released, and a motorcade was organized to take the coaches and team down Hackensack Avenue. OK I am really exaggerating but this was a win. And as I have said often, a win is a win is a win is a win! Just wonder if anyone saw the game or even knew they actually won? Also curious to find out if FDU gave the coaching staff a vote of confidence after the game? Based on the support the school provides maybe they should give that staff an extention. The huge question is will they win again? A bigger question is does anyone at the school or in the local community really care?

Back to the others. Today we could actually see a 0 win day in the tri-state area because none of the games are push over events. We know Madison Square Garden can be like a home court advantage to a team like Duke. We know that Louisville will be a tough game for SHU even though they might be slightly favored. We know that depending on which Cincinnati plays it could be a long day for RU. But than again we should also know by now, such is life in The Big East Conference, where every conference game is a winnable game for any team playing.

HS

Very disappointing to hear the SNY HS Classic was cancelled for this weekend. How could could organizers not know the rule on using a D1 College Gym for the event? How could they not have had this together a long time ago? In fact they could have snuck the game in at FDU and no one would have known because most people do not even know they have a college team. Maybe they should have used the Jersey City Armory, or even the 369th Armory in Harlem? Baruch College? How about CCNY uptown? Could have been like the old Doc Turner event from a few years back where CCNY was packed daily over the Christmas break for HS games. Not sure about the rules but I wonder if the game could have taken place at an area junior college like Monroe in New Rochelle, or even a school like Westchester CC in Valhalla, both with large gyms but outside of NYC, though still in NY State? But the bigger question is why such a stupid rule by the NCAA? There should be a waiver process in place! I doubt this would have been a recruiting advantage for LIU. I doubt Kyle Anderson would have liked LIU so much he would have gotten out of his UCLA commitment and sign with LIU. Conflicting reports have a game today scheduled between St. Anthony's and St. Raymond's, at St. Raymond's. To make this happen after a serious conflict years ago, I am sure St. Anthony's approved the Referee's or even bringing a few who just might be from Jersey City lol.

The HS season is winding down and here is a prediction. Get ready! St. Anthony will win the NJ State HS Tournament of Champions. Seriously! (smile)

OK here is another, Kyle Anderson will be First Team All State. Seriously!

All right here is a prediction that will cause Plainfield fans, if there are any who know about this blog, to be a bit upset. Gil St. Bernard will beat Plainfield in the Almost Prime Time Shootout! Yes, I said it but I still feel Plainfield is the better team if they played the best of 3. Just in this one game Gil St. Bernard is a hard match-up based on solid and decent inside play and very good play on the perimeter. I really hope I am wrong because I really am a fan of Plainfield and Teaneck, two schools in similar type of towns, doing it with actual kids from those towns as opposed to kids from a radius of over 100 miles.

In case you did not see my question and answer with myself a few says ago here it is again.

Question and Answer with LFBall

Since no one seems to ask me my opinion on College or HS basketball related issues I have decided to interview myself. For this I have asked LS who I really am to interview LFBall, who I post under. I hope this interview is enjoyable and enlightening. Trust me this is just another way of expressing my opinion. No ego, and no agenda except information sharing.

LS
We are here with LFBall who has been a fixture on the internet for many years commenting and writing about HS and College basketball. LFball can you tell us what started you posting?

LFball
LS I started back when we only had AOL boards and I read a college basketball board on my old IBM computer. A guy named Giggydawg was saying such interesting things and was so positive about St. Johns University that it peaked my interest to read all the time and occasionally post. This led me to other sites such as NYCNJHoops where we formed almost a bond and supported each other and even attended certain games as a group, later writing posts about the games we watched. From there I met a guy named Russ Blake who actually figured out who I was when I posted a question asking how good a certain kid was and he knew it had to be the Father of the kid. We communicated and i even wrote some stories for him and Mike Sullivan when Russ was unavailable. By the way Mike Sullivan still owes me my money lol. I than started reading all the good, bad, and ugly on the internet about players, teams, and more. As a parent it was often very hard to read and I found myself writing more and more. Which is how I found the Seton Hall and Rutgers boards to go along with The St. Johns board.

LS
What do you actually know about basketball?

LFBall
Honestly not much lol.! No really I played the game from 10 years old until my last college game in West Virginia. I was an All City honorable mention player on a 30 and 1 NYC HS team and served as Captain. As I did in junior college and at the 4 year college I graduated from. Coaching wise I coached many great HS, College, and Pro players over the years in leagues in and around NYC with the Dyckman Basketball Program where I served as one of the two lead coaches and primary trainer/instructor. I also coached at Westchester Community College where our teams went to Hutchinson Kansas to the Nationals 3 different times while I was there. I learned alot from the head coach Ralph Arietta as I did from jim Couch of the Dyckman Program.

LS
Can you tell us a few of the players you have worked with in the past?

LFBall
OK I will try to get this right. This is just a few guys I have had an opportunity to work with. Rik Smits, Gus Williams, Mark Jackson, Kevin Williams, Rodney McCray, Scooter McCray, Lowes Moore, Darwin Cook, Ronny Williams, from Florida, Phil Smith from New Mexico, Steve Burtt, Steve Burtt Jr., JR Inman, Ryan Ayers, Gerald Henderson, Wayne Ellington, Antonio Pena, God Shamgod, JC Mathis, Mike Nurse, Peter Vignier, Seth Brown, Donald Osbourve, Pat Sullivan, Rynn Sullivan, Ricardo Greer, Jeffrey Greer, Craig Carter, Jean Preliou, Sean Banks, Sean Couch, and many more.

LS
How did you get to work with the Philly kids?

LFBall
I worked with kids on competing much more than skill development. So my practices were all run like a boot camp. React to the whistle and alot of mental games to make players tougher. When you came to the gym with me you could not talk until the final whistle was blown unless you were talking the game on offense and defense. Honestly it was so hard many players were scared to attend. Fred Benjimin, who now coaches at a New England Prep Power was one of our Dyckman team members who we made a player. Now he has studs every year and uses many of the drills we used. He said to folks about two years ago that I was a Black version of Bobby Knight based on my drills and discipline. Well, back to your question LS. Jim Solmon a guy I know and respect liked the workouts I was doing. So he often brought select kids he thought could handle it to the workouts. Thats what brought the Philly Kids on more than one occasion. And they were such a pleasure to be around!

LS
Now that we know a little about you I want to ask you some basketball related questions. Is that OK?

LFBall
Yes please be my guest. By the way can I get you a soda or water?

LS
No thianks. But please give me your honest assessment of Seton Hall Mens Basketball?

LFBall
I think Seton Hall is just fine. I feel they are currently trying to fight out of a mini slump but are more than capable of turning the ship around. At first I thought they got the short end of the stick when St. Johns hired Lavin and Rutgers hired Rice. They both seemed to be more news worthy at the time. But reflecting on the season so far it seems Seton Hall actually made the best hire as of this moment. He sure has done better than many expected at this point. I feel Seton Hall needs a tougher and mentally stronger Herb Pope to show up from this point forward. Herb needs to play with purpose! He needs to be in attack mode and stop playing as if he just enjoys the life around beautiful South Orange with the trees and wonderful people. Time for him to step up. Jordan Theodore needs to become a leader by taking care of his teammates. He needs to get the ball to them where they can be effective. He also has to hit shots if he is going to take so many. Toughness is not a concern when it comes to him. Just making shots and making those around him more effective remains my concern. By the way Jordan does not remember me but I worked with him also when he was about 9 years old and his wonderful Mom brought him over to us at Dyckman along with his brother Kwami. He always had a ball with him lol. Still remember his Mom walking on the court during a Rucker game and putting him on the ground for being disrespectful on the bench when he came out of a certain game. She walked right across the court lol. His Mom is OUTSTANDING! I also feel the SHU fans have more to cheer about than to frown about. They just do not realize it yet. Lastly I look forwrd to the day that curtain comes down like the Berlin Wall because people will rediscover SHU basketball is a great event to watch.

LS
Same question about Rutgers

LFBall
Rutgers is a sleeping giant. I dreamed about playing at Rutgers after watching the Phil Sellers, Ed Jordan, Mike Dabney, Hollis Copeland, James Bailey, Les Cason and Abdul Anderson team turn the Garden out. They arrived in two buses with Rutgers, The State University, on the side. Inside the crowd was going crazy shouting RU RAA RAA RU RAA. It was electric and every kid wanted to be part of this magical team from NJ that were like movie stars. Heck they even chanted Les Cason's name and he was no where the player Dick Vitale made folks think he was when he attended Rutherford NJ HS. Rutgers seems to be on the way back although I feel they could have been right up there if they had kept Gary Waters. I hated his negative energy on the side lines frowning at players for every little mistake but he got results and took RU to the NIT where RU fans packed the place as they did during the Phil Sellers years. When Fred Hill took over we all saw it coming so no one was really surprised. What surprised many of us was the new Fred Hill. This was not the wonderful guy from FDU we all knew. This was not the guy I called Tommy Amaker and told he needs this guy bad! This was not the guy I went on the internet daily trying in my own silly way to drum up support for when he was trying to get the Seton Hall Assistant job. This was not the guy my son adored! This was definitely a case of "The Return of The Body Snatchers" because someone took the Fred Hill Jr. we loved and adored from us. He really might have come around with another year, But to tell his staff that they could not even speak to certain folks was a definite no-no in my book. I was actually on a list! Wow. I wish him well and know he will do a good job at Northwestern. Enter Mike Rice who I thought was a good candidate but not what Al Skinner or Fran Frachilla could bring to the table. Well, I was wrong! I guess that is why I write a blog and do not have a real job involving college basketball lol. Mike Rice is turning the RU Program around. He has them playing hard and recruiting great student athletes. His staff is superb and really doing wonderful work from NY to Washington DC getting players interested. Rutgers remains a sleeping giant who seems to be on the verge of waking up. Right now they are sleep walking and beating some high profile teams on occasion, but still sorta sleeping. However Coach Rice with a capital C, a guy I remember from Fordham and a guy who also actually worked out with us in the past during his Fordham years, is going to make Rutgers a true upper tier Big East team sooner than later. I also remember Coach Rice working the door at Hoop group Events years ago. Yes I love what Rob kennedy and The hoop group foes and stands for.

LS
How about St. Johns

LFBall
SJU remains "The program" in the NYC Metro area. The question is can they hold on after many seasons of mediocrity? Norm Roberts did a wonderful job based on having nowhere the budget or lets just say opportunities Lavin has to produce a winner. St. Johns for years did it with the best from NY, NJ, and LI who often lived at home with the housing stipend money in their pocket based on fair rent costs in the part of Queens where St. Johns is located. This was a huge recruitment tool since at the time St. Johns did not have dorms and according to NCAA guidelines each player could receive a certain amount to cover living and eating expenses. So players took the money and purchased cars to drive back and forth. Some even took apartments with up to 3 other teammates nearby and paid 1/4 the rent. I still remember a friend of mine who was a SJU star driving a nice Electra 225 with red interior. Those were the days when playing for St., Johns was almost like playing for the Knicks. St. Johns choose players who they wanted and in most cases got. The NYC PSAL and CHSAA had players, great players, who wanted to attend St. Johns so bad they would have paid to attend. The real stars had great incentives to stay home because the Garden rocked when they played. Interesting also was the large number of players who transferred back home to St. Johns. Reggie Carter and Bernard Rencher are two who come to mind. How about that 6 ft 5 workhorse Matt Brust? SJU was not scared of JC transfers either. Chris Mullin and Walter Berry were the dynamic duo after Walter transferred from San Jacinto to play on a great team with Chris and Mark Jackson. Every now and than they would get that super player from far away. Players like Willie Glass from Atlantic City, or the great HS player from Colorado Chuckie Sprolling (sp) I think. I remember Mike Moses in the backcourt as well as Kevin Williams getting drafted even though he did not start for St. Johns. St Johns players were like pro's. I remember seeing Mark Jackson with a suit and tie on arriving for his games and Walter with an entourage. Even back in the day Beaver Smith was a household name and more famous than many area professionals. I heard Beaver had Dr. J watch his clothes when he played summer league lol. fast forward to now and i see them getting 6000 at the Garden for a Big East game. The new arena is supposed to be nice but I have not been there to see it for myself. I am not sure Lavin will return this season or if at all. I know they have very good players but I also feel something is missing. Maybe it is more tough representatives from the PSAL and CHSAA. I really look forward to sell outs at the Garden in the near future hopefully. And not just during the Big East Tournament!

LS
Why are you so tough on FDU?

LFBall
Plain and simple I am upset over the way they have ruined what was a solid program under Tom Green. I have never seen in all my years watching basketball a school go out of their way to make a gym unattractive and a team so damn non competitive. I have heard I have been the topic of conversation in the SID's office on more than one occasion. Maybe that time would be better spent working on getting a few people to know FDU has a team starting with your administration. Or are they at the Madison campus watching the D3 team compete? FDU could really be a good program. It really is a very good school. No reason a place such as that should not average 2500 fans a game and be in the top 1/4 of that conference yearly.

LS
What do you think of College Basketball Recruitment and kids leaving the area to attend college?

LFBall
Honestly unless you are going to Stanford, Northwestern (all you future Doctors and Lawyers), Virginia, Duke, North Carolina, Harvard, and maybe UCLA and Kansas, no kid should go further than 180 miles from home unless no school locally or regionally recruits him. If you are a legit 4 star player and none of the area Big East schools offer you a scholarship I sure understand you attending Clemson, Wake Forest, Rhode Island, Boston College, or even Miami where no one will ever see you again. Yes, thats right! No one will ever see you again. Don't believe me? What happened to the player from paul Roberson who transferred to Miami from Villanova? OK you got my point. Why not give RU, SJU, and SHU an opportunity? Heck what is wrong with Fordham, Iona, and Manhattan who at one time played games at The Garden and was competitive with SJU during the Campion, Lockhart, and Bucci years? Monmouth is the best thing other than being on the beach in Florida. Rider though a band box gym is really a nice place. Heck even FDU will not be a bad place once they get it together. Ego makes kids choose wrong. So do advisers who are choosing to benefit them and their personal egos. NY and NJ is where most of these kids will return and work one day. Not Wisconsin, Indiana, or even Miami. Not Kentucky or Memphis! Why not attend school where you will need connections when that NBA contract does not materialize? So if you do not realize it, I am a fan of kids staying home if the opportunity is right. Plus I want a Tobacco Road atmosphere like they have in North Carolina. I guess I am just being selfish.

LS
What is our take on the recruitment services ranking HS players?

LFBall
Let me stop laughing. In our area there are a few folks who know the business and even they can be wrong. Just to name a few let me start with Steve Keller, Robert "Rebel" Boyd, Jay Gomes, Ed Butler, Russ Blake, Nate Blue (yes he does know what he is talking about) and Tom Konchalski. And as I said even those guys and ME get it wrong somtimes. Like I have said in the past the biggest laugh when certain folks go out to a diner with Tom Konchalski is his rating Mike O'Koran a 2 star D3 recruit prior to his senior year at Hudson Catholic. Just think if Dean Smith listened to Tom Mike would have attended Jersey City State University. Mike as we all know went on to star at North Carolina and for the NJ Nets. I guess even Tom can get it wrong lol. Many of the other guys with services have no clue. They sit court-side taking notes for publications you never heard of or will never ever see. Many never played, or coached. In fact some barely watched yet now are experts on what level a kid should be recruited. Ever see those bogus top 20 6 grade rankings? How about the top 3rd grader in America? Funny as you know what! Yet they tend to have credibility with college coaches. I happen to know many coaches and often tease them when then call me. They pay folks who do not know yet want free info from me (smile). Big business for many but the driving force for many is the power of influence.

LS
What is your take on AAU Teams?

LFBall
I think people get it confused. Most of the teams you are really asking about our really just travel programs who might play in one AAU event yearly if that. But let me give my take on travel teams. Most of these teams are funded through fund raising efforts. Tournaments, candy sales, concessions at games, and car washes. In many cases the teams do get funding from people such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok, and Under Armor who is the new kid on the block spending alot of money. Do not be surprised if Sonny Vacarro re-appears running the Under Armor top 100 Camp or something similar. I still do not think a kid will see a HS player with a pair of Under Armor sneakers on and run to buy a pair himself. What many people fail to realize is 95 percent of the teams playing travel basketball lose money and coaches often pay alot of the expenses from their own pocket. Now there are some that get so much funding even the parents are outfitted at games. One team heading south gets support from Nuke, plus the 5 NBA players who came through their program. I wonder why these successful Athletes rarely give back to the HS Programs other than a set of sneakers here and there? Maybe because the HS did not provide what the travel teams do in terms of tutoring, advice and guidance, exposure opportunities, and in many cases better coaching. Some say the real season if you are not at a good HS program is the travel team season from late March to October. Thats when you will get your real exposure in a very competitive environment. So yes I am a fan of travel teams. And locally there are some very good ones!

LS
Please give us your impression of Kyle Anderson?

LFBall
In two sentences. I would average at least 10 points a game playing with him even at my age. He is super special and extremely gifted and well coached. He does need a vacation after the season away from basketball because he has faced every challenge, played every game, and hid from no one to be crowned the best in America.

LS
How about Karl Towns Jr.?

LFBall
OUTSTANDING and tons of potential! A once every 20 years player!

LS
I have to ask you about Chris Jones from Teaneck?

LFBall
I am going out on a limb on this one. With the right school choice and a patient College Coach, we will see Chris play in the NBA as a 6 ft 6 guard one day. Extremely underrated and a real candidate for the 2nd best HS player in NJ this season.

LS
What is your take on Gil St. Bernard HS?

LFBall
Ritzy school with an outstanding team and very good coach. Young Sina is very special and will be great in college. I look forward to the game against Plainfield.

LS
Speaking of Plainfield what are your thoughts on them?

LFBall
I hope for a Teaneck vs Plainfield rematch in the sectional finals. Honestly this team is special and after St. Anthony's and St. Benedict's, rightfully deserves the 3rd spot in the rankings. This is a throwback team if I ever saw one. They play like kids did years ago. Tough and with a purpose! In fact they remind me of those teams from the deep south that has tough kids who just get after it. I love this team because they are doing it, as is Teaneck, with home grown talent.

LS
Who is the best players you have ever seen in HS

LFBall
In no particular order. Tim Thomas, Shaheen Holloway, Vince Carter, Koby Bryant, Allen Iverson, Wayne McKoy, Dejuan Wagner, Lebron James, John Wall, Filipe Lopez, Lamont Odom, and Aquille Carr. There are more I just cannot think of them at this moment.

LS
What about the best HS Coaches?

LFBall
Bob Hurley, though it gets tired hearing TV people say his name when a St. Anthony's graduate is playing lol. Also Kevin Boyle, Moe Hicks, Johnny Mathis, Ray Haskins, Gary DeCaeser, Tiny Morton, Danny Hurley, Ron Naclerio, Abe Heyman (my HS Coach), Curtis March (Outstanding Coach but having to deal with a crazy like me makes him even that mush more special), Ruth Lovelace and her Staff, Bill Speigal (ex Ben Franklin Coach), and Howie Jones (ex Boys HS Coach) just to name a few.

LS
Last question. Why did you start your blog?

LFBall
Easy question and thanks for asking. I started my blog as a hobby. I wanted to say what I felt and not be censored by anyone. I felt I had alot to share and even more to say. I was going to really give it to certain people but decided to just keep it clean. But trust me the cheating and corruption in basketball is there and everyone from the NCAA to the AAU know. Kids are getting paid, parents get paid and perks, and even colleges are listening to power brokers who control who they hire based on the promise of special funding and future opportunities. Ohhhhhhh do not start me preaching. I better end this right now before I provide names!

LS
Thanks for your time

LFBall
No problem I enjoyed it.

MONDAY, JANUARY 23, 2012

Talking Prep Schools: Bogus or not Bogus?

Monday, January 23, 2012

I am far from a football fan but I have to admit even I am excited about the Giants going to The Super Bowl. Big question is where will the parade take place if they win? NY or NJ? Are they the NJ Giants or the NY Giants? Maybe they are the NJ/NJ Giants! Regardless they have many people very excited about the this upcoming Super Bowl. Personally I will watch and might even host a party. It just depends on what college games are on TV!

Doing alot of thinking that will not make me a popular guy at certain HS games. I am a bit concerned about the increasing number of prep programs springing up all over the country. Some are in buildings and some are actually run out of apartments. I even have a GREAT FRIEND who has started a program and I asked him about the sincerity of providing the players a solid education. He assured me they are getting that and more. Knowing him as I do I am sure they are getting great lessons that will help them in life and in college. I do trust him!

But some of the others are actually being run by people who have never even completed college. Now we all know that attending and graduating from college does not make you a perfect teacher or coach. We also understand that many who never had formal education really are brilliant and capable of doing great work with young at risk men, which many of the players at some of the schools running programs actually are. But when you look across America and see small 25 person schools springing up and sending players to super high major universities you have to wonder if they are actually that good or does someone really not give a damn and giving young men grades to gain college eligibility.

Education is not a game! Education is nothing to play with! Basketball is such a temporary thing in life that it should be a criminal offense to pass kids just to pass them and use them for personal ego and long term financial benefits. Every kid who is rated high will not make an NBA roster. In fact many will not even last in places like Italy and China. So to push them through with a false sense of academic achievement would be like allowing a person to practice medicine out of a community heath aid program.

There are enough young men walking the streets in urban America without the skills necessary to be productive citizens. Now many of the bogus schools are providing a stamp of approval to these kids making it seem as if they are ready for great academic things in the future. When these young men are finished their 4 years of college eligibility and proved they were not the great players many thought they would be, they return to where they grew up with very few credits and just fond memories of being wined and dined for years until they were used up. Many return worst than they were when they left the neighborhood. Now they have to use their academic skills, which they really never mastered. So they become unproductive citizens. And it all started with the HS education they thought they were receiving.

Now if a kid has a HS diploma and is already college eligible but just wants to attend to gain strength and maturity while getting college exposure that could land him a scholarship it would be fine. But when a kid leaves an accredited HS to transfer to a prep program in South Carolina being run out of a basement in someones home or Church I feel the Parents need to actually be arrested for being irresponsible by allowing the transfer to occur.

Allow me to paint a picture of what a real Prep School is and what the purpose is. Prep schools such as The Hun School, Blair Academy. St. Benedicts, Peddie, and others are in existence to provide a superior and structured education to those who really can afford to pay tuition of over $35,000 a year including room and board. Not sure what St. Benedict's charges but the others sure charge what I mentioned and more. In New England places such as Choate, Berkshire, Northfield Mount Herman, and others have world class campuses and facilities and like the NJ schools designed to prepare students for college. In many cases they were fir the kids of the rich and famous to help them mature as well as be a stable environment as the parents jet-setted around the world. Than they went from just average athletic teams to becoming competitive. Because of the competitiveness many actually started recruiting players and provided scholarships to those who did not come via programs such as Prep for Prep, or A better Chance, two programs that place urban kids in prestigious New England Prep schools each year.

When a real hardship came to many traditional prep schools such as St. Thomas Moore, and The Wincendon School, Asian students started arriving in large numbers sponsored by their governments based on academic potential. Those schools also became the place to be for very good HS players in need of academic structure and better grades and SAT scores. Thus you had the power Prep teams with 11 D1 players and the true ritzy prep schools where the kids of the rich and famous paid over $40,000 a year to attend with 1 or 2 solid mid to high major players who actually were prepared for college. And most came as PG students meaning they were out of regular HS eligibility.

Now comes the new guys. The store fronts, the basements, and those who do it from an apartment. I am very scared about what is happening to those kids. I really pray that kids in these bogus type programs are not being milked for money or self satisfaction of the founders and coaches. As a parent I would never allow my child to leave a solid HS to attend a school in a store front for basketball reasons because basketball is now, knowing how to function in the world including reading, writing, and arithmetic is forever.

So to any parents reading this blog please be careful and monitor the academics as if you are making plans for your future. After all our children are our future.

Question and Answer with LFBall and stuff from last night

2012-01-26T10:51:00.000-05:00

Thursday, January 26, 2012

What a day in College Basketball! A team actually lost a game. Can you believe that? Who would have thought it? Are you telling me there has to be winners and losers? Please! Are you telling me the chances of every team playing great all season long is close to impossible? Wow! Again I am stunned that a team in the United States of America with a name other than FDU lost a game.

Lets start with both Rutgers and Seton Hall. Was it actually "Horrible Wednesday" in New Jersey based on both losing games that on paper they should have won? I say no! Do I feel both played much worst than expected? I say yes! I have said repeatedly that the good teams win all games they are supposed to win based on better talent or at the least home court advantage based on outstanding crowd support and familiarity of your home court. In the case of Rutgers I really feel it is hard to justify your great wins when you turn around and lose to a team you should beat in DePaul. I mean this is not the DePaul made famous by Ray Myers. But on the other hand it is the DePaul of The Big East and honestly all the teams in the Big East are at least decent. And decent teams can win games when the chips fall into place for them.

Lets look at Seton Hall. Again I say the world is not coming to an end for any of us based on a loss to Notre Dame. Seton Hall can still be a post season entry. And I sure am not talking about that Coaches Invitational or the big NJ event with FDU, Binghamton, St. Peters, and Marist. NJIT was eliminated from the field based on having a better record than all the others. Again I say Seton Hall must hold serve and beat the teams they are supposed to based on certain factors. Playing at home should mean something if the fans come out and really support them. Senior leadership should be in place with Theodore and Pope, who both saw their games go south on Wednesday evening. 2 for 16 for Pope, the former top 75 national recruit? 4 for 14 for Jordan the highly recruited guard from Englewood NJ and Paterson Catholic HS? The rest of the players following their lead and playing equally unimpressive. Coaches cannot shoot the ball or play the game for you. If that was the case SHU would have won because Coach Willard and Coach Holloway together would be too tough as nails mentally and physically to ever let a game such as this turn out the way it did. And trust me Coach Willard was a tough role player who had to prove he was worthy every day,

On a positive note St. Johns won last night at the Garden against a very good but recently under achieving West Virginia University in front of a huge crowd of 6000 plus. I do wonder if this game could have been played at Alumni Hall or Carnesseca Arena as they now call it. But at least they won and it is too bad no one really saw it (smile). We do have to remember that St. Johns is very young with a watered down Fab Five type Freshmen Class who still are potential stars and in a few cases potential NBA draft choices.

Here is my message about the games and played and Fans of the respective teams mentioned. Rutgers, Seton Hall, and St. Johns will not win every game they play. They will make you cheer and approve and they will make you upset and disappointed. Its just the nature of the game we all love. Winning and losing will happen every time a game takes place. No such thing as a tie in basketball! But I will say Fans have every right to be fans. This means they have a right to moan, bitch, applaud, and cheer. It means they can vent frustration as well as predict great things when the final score is in favor of their team. Now here comes where I disagree with many tri-state area fans.

When will local fans understand that support must be consistent, even when you bitch and moan about your teams performance. True fans help teams become programs and programs worthy of recruiting high caliber players such as what St. Johns, Rutgers, and Seton Hall has. Players want to be part of programs and not teams. Well, the greatest coach in the world with good talent will not be able to attract players if the fans of that team are not supportive by attending games. Well, than again Miami gets players with very little fan support outside of Luke and his entourage lol. This brings me to support after a bad loss. Duke can lose games they are supposed to win and return home to a sell out crowd in that old building that seats 4000 but they get 9000 because everyone stands the entire game. North Carolina will get a sell out if they lost the last game to the Belmont Abby Alumni Association B Team. Louisville? not having a great season as many predicted but still selling out the YUM Center. Memphis lost its coach and people still purchased season tickets and the crowd is always around 17,000 at Tiger games.

You want to see your team do well? Than I say to the fans at SJU, RU, and SHU, get out to the next game. Get your friends to come out. Pack the place to capacity and when your team comes out for warm-ups give them a standing ovation as opposed to sitting there expecting to see a bad performance. This is how fans of programs react. Fans of teams? They just bitch and provide negative energy. I am sure recruits like Aquille Carr, who still has to be recruited up until he actually shows up on campus in summer 2013 will be watching because at Maryland, it will be 16,000 plus cheering even after a loss!

Question and Answer with LFBall

Since no one seems to ask me my opinion on College or HS basketball related issues I have decided to interview myself. For this I have asked LS who I really am to interview LFBall, who I post under. I hope this interview is enjoyable and enlightening. Trust me this is just another way of expressing my opinion. No ego, no agenda except information sharing.

LS
We are here with LFBall who has been a fixture on the internet for many years commenting and writing about HS and College basketball. LFball can you tell us what started you posting?

LFball
LS I started back when we only had AOL boards and I read a college basketball board on my old IBM computer. A guy named Giggydawg was saying such interesting things and was so positive about St. Johns University that it peaked my interest to read all the time and occasionally post. This led me to other sites such as NYCNJHoops where we formed almost a bond and supported each other and even attended certain games as a group, later writing posts about the games we watched. From there I met a guy named Russ Blake who actually figured out who I was when I posted a question asking how good a certain kid was and he knew it had to be the Father of the kid. We communicated and i even wrote some stories for him and Mike Sullivan when Russ was unavailable. By the way Mike Sullivan still owes me my money lol. I than started reading all the good, bad, and ugly on the internet about players, teams, and more. As a parent it was often very hard to read and I found myself writing more and more. Which is how I found the Seton Hall and Rutgers boards to go along with The St. Johns board.

LS
What do you actually know about basketball?

LFBall
Honestly not much lol.! No really I played the game from 10 years old until my last college game in West Virginia. I was an All City honorable mention player on a 30 and 1 NYC HS team and served as Captain. As I did in junior college and at the 4 year college I graduated from. Coaching wise I coached many great HS, College, and Pro players over the years in leagues in and around NYC with the Dyckman Basketball Program where I served as one of the two lead coaches and primary trainer/instructor. I also coached at Westchester Community College where our teams went to Hutchinson Kansas to the Nationals 3 different times while I was there. I learned alot from the head coach Ralph Arietta as I did from jim Couch of the Dyckman Program.

LS
Can you tell us a few of the players you have worked with in the past?

LFBall
OK I will try to get this right. This is just a few guys I have had an opportunity to work with. Rik Smits, Gus Williams, Mark Jackson, Kevin Williams, Rodney McCray, Scooter McCray, Lowes Moore, Darwin Cook, Ronny Williams, from Florida, Phil Smith from New Mexico, Steve Burtt, Steve Burtt Jr., JR Inman, Ryan Ayers, Gerald Henderson, Wayne Ellington, Antonio Pena, God Shamgod, JC Mathis, Mike Nurse, Peter Vignier, Seth Brown, Donald Osbourve, Pat Sullivan, Rynn Sullivan, Ricardo Greer, Jeffrey Greer, Craig Carter, Jean Preliou, Sean Banks, Sean Couch, and many more.

LS
How did you get to work with the Philly kids?

LFBall
I worked with kids on competing much more than skill development. So my practices were all run like a boot camp. React to the whistle and alot of mental games to make players tougher. When you came to the gym with me you could not talk until the final whistle was blown unless you were talking the game on offense and defense. Honestly it was so hard many players were scared to attend. Fred Benjimin, who now coaches at a New England Prep Power was one of our Dyckman team members who we made a player. Now he has studs every year and uses many of the drills we used. He said to folks about two years ago that I was a Black version of Bobby Knight based on my drills and discipline. Well, back to your question LS. Jim Solmon a guy I know and respect liked the workouts I was doing. So he often brought select kids he thought could handle it to the workouts. Thats what brought the Philly Kids on more than one occasion. And they were such a pleasure to be around!

LS
Now that we know a little about you I want to ask you some basketball related questions. Is that OK?

LFBall
Yes please be my guest. By the way can I get you a soda or water?

LS
No thianks. But please give me your honest assessment of Seton Hall Mens Basketball?

LFBall
I think Seton Hall is just fine. I feel they are currently trying to fight out of a mini slump but are more than capable of turning the ship around. At first I thought they got the short end of the stick when St. Johns hired Lavin and Rutgers hired Rice. They both seemed to be more news worthy at the time. But reflecting on the season so far it seems Seton Hall actually made the best hire as of this moment. He sure has done better than many expected at this point. I feel Seton Hall needs a tougher and mentally stronger Herb Pope to show up from this point forward. Herb needs to play with purpose! He needs to be in attack mode and stop playing as if he just enjoys the life around beautiful South Orange with the trees and wonderful people. Time for him to step up. Jordan Theodore needs to become a leader by taking care of his teammates. He needs to get the ball to them where they can be effective. He also has to hit shots if he is going to take so many. Toughness is not a concern when it comes to him. Just making shots and making those around him more effective remains my concern. By the way Jordan does not remember me but I worked with him also when he was about 9 years old and his wonderful Mom brought him over to us at Dyckman along with his brother Kwami. He always had a ball with him lol. Still remember his Mom walking on the court during a Rucker game and putting him on the ground for being disrespectful on the bench when he came out of a certain game. She walked right across the court lol. His Mom is OUTSTANDING! I also feel the SHU fans have more to cheer about than to frown about. They just do not realize it yet. Lastly I look forwrd to the day that curtain comes down like the Berlin Wall because people will rediscover SHU basketball is a great event to watch.

LS
Same question about Rutgers

LFBall
Rutgers is a sleeping giant. I dreamed about playing at Rutgers after watching the Phil Sellers, Ed Jordan, Mike Dabney, Hollis Copeland, James Bailey, Les Cason and Abdul Anderson team turn the Garden out. They arrived in two buses with Rutgers, The State University, on the side. Inside the crowd was going crazy shouting RU RAA RAA RU RAA. It was electric and every kid wanted to be part of this magical team from NJ that were like movie stars. Heck they even chanted Les Cason's name and he was no where the player Dick Vitale made folks think he was when he attended Rutherford NJ HS. Rutgers seems to be on the way back although I feel they could have been right up there if they had kept Gary Waters. I hated his negative energy on the side lines frowning at players for every little mistake but he got results and took RU to the NIT where RU fans packed the place as they did during the Phil Sellers years. When Fred Hill took over we all saw it coming so no one was really surprised. What surprised many of us was the new Fred Hill. This was not the wonderful guy from FDU we all knew. This was not the guy I called Tommy Amaker and told he needs this guy bad! This was not the guy I went on the internet daily trying in my own silly way to drum up support for when he was trying to get the Seton Hall Assistant job. This was not the guy my son adored! This was definitely a case of "The Return of The Body Snatchers" because someone took the Fred Hill Jr. we loved and adored from us. He really might have come around with another year, But to tell his staff that they could not even speak to certain folks was a definite no-no in my book. I was actually on a list! Wow. I wish him well and know he will do a good job at Northwestern. Enter Mike Rice who I thought was a good candidate but not what Al Skinner or Fran Frachilla could bring to the table. Well, I was wrong! I guess that is why I write a blog and do not have a real job involving college basketball lol. Mike Rice is turning the RU Program around. He has them playing hard and recruiting great student athletes. His staff is superb and really doing wonderful work from NY to Washington DC getting players interested. Rutgers remains a sleeping giant who seems to be on the verge of waking up. Right now they are sleep walking and beating some high profile teams on occasion, but still sorta sleeping. However Coach Rice with a capital C, a guy I remember from Fordham and a guy who also actually worked out with us in the past during his Fordham years, is going to make Rutgers a true upper tier Big East team sooner than later. I also remember Coach Rice working the door at Hoop group Events years ago. Yes I love what Rob kennedy and The hoop group foes and stands for.

LS
How about St. Johns

LFBall
SJU remains "The program" in the NYC Metro area. The question is can they hold on after many seasons of mediocrity? Norm Roberts did a wonderful job based on having nowhere the budget or lets just say opportunities Lavin has to produce a winner. St. Johns for years did it with the best from NY, NJ, and LI who often lived at home with the housing stipend money in their pocket based on fair rent costs in the part of Queens where St. Johns is located. This was a huge recruitment tool since at the time St. Johns did not have dorms and according to NCAA guidelines each player could receive a certain amount to cover living and eating expenses. So players took the money and purchased cars to drive back and forth. Some even took apartments with up to 3 other teammates nearby and paid 1/4 the rent. I still remember a friend of mine who was a SJU star driving a nice Electra 225 with red interior. Those were the days when playing for St., Johns was almost like playing for the Knicks. St. Johns choose players who they wanted and in most cases got. The NYC PSAL and CHSAA had players, great players, who wanted to attend St. Johns so bad they would have paid to attend. The real stars had great incentives to stay home because the Garden rocked when they played. Interesting also was the large number of players who transferred back home to St. Johns. Reggie Carter and Bernard Rencher are two who come to mind. How about that 6 ft 5 workhorse Matt Brust? SJU was not scared of JC transfers either. Chris Mullin and Walter Berry were the dynamic duo after Walter transferred from San Jacinto to play on a great team with Chris and Mark Jackson. Every now and than they would get that super player from far away. Players like Willie Glass from Atlantic City, or the great HS player from Colorado Chuckie Sprolling (sp) I think. I remember Mike Moses in the backcourt as well as Kevin Williams getting drafted even though he did not start for St. Johns. St Johns players were like pro's. I remember seeing Mark Jackson with a suit and tie on arriving for his games and Walter with an entourage. Even back in the day Beaver Smith was a household name and more famous than many area professionals. I heard Beaver had Dr. J watch his clothes when he played summer league lol. fast forward to now and i see them getting 6000 at the Garden for a Big East game. The new arena is supposed to be nice but I have not been there to see it for myself. I am not sure Lavin will return this season or if at all. I know they have very good players but I also feel something is missing. Maybe it is more tough representatives from the PSAL and CHSAA. I really look forward to sell outs at the Garden in the near future hopefully. And not just during the Big East Tournament!

LS
Why are you so tough on FDU?

LFBall
Plain and simple I am upset over the way they have ruined what was a solid program under Tom Green. I have never seen in all my years watching basketball a school go out of their way to make a gym unattractive and a team so damn non competitive. I have heard I have been the topic of conversation in the SID's office on more than one occasion. Maybe that time would be better spent working on getting a few people to know FDU has a team starting with your administration. Or are they at the Madison campus watching the D3 team compete? FDU could really be a good program. It really is a very good school. No reason a place such as that should not average 2500 fans a game and be in the top 1/4 of that conference yearly.

LS
What do you think of College Basketball Recruitment and kids leaving the area to attend college?

LFBall
Honestly unless you are going to Stanford, Northwestern (all you future Doctors and Lawyers), Virginia, Duke, North Carolina, Harvard, and maybe UCLA and Kansas, no kid should go further than 180 miles from home unless no school locally or regionally recruits him. If you are a legit 4 star player and none of the area Big East schools offer you a scholarship I sure understand you attending Clemson, Wake Forest, Rhode Island, Boston College, or even Miami where no one will ever see you again. Yes, thats right! No one will ever see you again. Don't believe me? What happened to the player from paul Roberson who transferred to Miami from Villanova? OK you got my point. Why not give RU, SJU, and SHU an opportunity? Heck what is wrong with Fordham, Iona, and Manhattan who at one time played games at The Garden and was competitive with SJU during the Campion, Lockhart, and Bucci years? Monmouth is the best thing other than being on the beach in Florida. Rider though a band box gym is really a nice place. Heck even FDU will not be a bad place once they get it together. Ego makes kids choose wrong. So do advisers who are choosing to benefit them and their personal egos. NY and NJ is where most of these kids will return and work one day. Not Wisconsin, Indiana, or even Miami. Not Kentucky or Memphis! Why not attend school where you will need connections when that NBA contract does not materialize? So if you do not realize it, I am a fan of kids staying home if the opportunity is right. Plus I want a Tobacco Road atmosphere like they have in North Carolina. I guess I am just being selfish.

LS
What is our take on the recruitment services ranking HS players?

LFBall
Let me stop laughing. In our area there are a few folks who know the business and even they can be wrong. Just to name a few let me start with Steve Keller, Robert "Rebel" Boyd, Jay Gomes, Ed Butler, Russ Blake, Nate Blue (yes he does know what he is talking about) and Tom Konchalski. And as I said even those guys and ME get it wrong somtimes. Like I have said in the past the biggest laugh when certain folks go out to a diner with Tom Konchalski is his rating Mike O'Koran a 2 star D3 recruit prior to his senior year at Hudson Catholic. Just think if Dean Smith listened to Tom Mike would have attended Jersey City State University. Mike as we all know went on to star at North Carolina and for the NJ Nets. I guess even Tom can get it wrong lol. Many of the other guys with services have no clue. They sit court-side taking notes for publications you never heard of or will never ever see. Many never played, or coached. In fact some barely watched yet now are experts on what level a kid should be recruited. Ever see those bogus top 20 6 grade rankings? How about the top 3rd grader in America? Funny as you know what! Yet they tend to have credibility with college coaches. I happen to know many coaches and often tease them when then call me. They pay folks who do not know yet want free info from me (smile). Big business for many but the driving force for many is the power of influence.

LS
What is your take on AAU Teams?

LFBall
I think people get it confused. Most of the teams you are really asking about our really just travel programs who might play in one AAU event yearly if that. But let me give my take on travel teams. Most of these teams are funded through fund raising efforts. Tournaments, candy sales, concessions at games, and car washes. In many cases the teams do get funding from people such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok, and Under Armor who is the new kid on the block spending alot of money. Do not be surprised if Sonny Vacarro re-appears running the Under Armor top 100 Camp or something similar. I still do not think a kid will see a HS player with a pair of Under Armor sneakers on and run to buy a pair himself. What many people fail to realize is 95 percent of the teams playing travel basketball lose money and coaches often pay alot of the expenses from their own pocket. Now there are some that get so much funding even the parents are outfitted at games. One team heading south gets support from Nuke, plus the 5 NBA players who came through their program. I wonder why these successful Athletes rarely give back to the HS Programs other than a set of sneakers here and there? Maybe because the HS did not provide what the travel teams do in terms of tutoring, advice and guidance, exposure opportunities, and in many cases better coaching. Some say the real season if you are not at a good HS program is the travel team season from late March to October. Thats when you will get your real exposure in a very competitive environment. So yes I am a fan of travel teams. And locally there are some very good ones!

LS
Please give us your impression of Kyle Anderson?

LFBall
In two sentences. I would average at least 10 points a game playing with him even at my age. He is super special and extremely gifted and well coached. He does need a vacation after the season away from basketball because he has faced every challenge, played every game, and hid from no one to be crowned the best in America.

LS
How about Karl Towns Jr.?

LFBall
OUTSTANDING and tons of potential! A once every 20 years player!

LS
I have to ask you about Chris Jones from Teaneck?

LFBall
I am going out on a limb on this one. With the right school choice and a patient College Coach, we will see Chris play in the NBA as a 6 ft 6 guard one day. Extremely underrated and a real candidate for the 2nd best HS player in NJ this season.

LS
What is your take on Gil St. Bernard HS?

LFBall
Ritzy school with an outstanding team and very good coach. Young Sina is very special and will be great in college. I look forward to the game against Plainfield.

LS
Speaking of Plainfield what are your thoughts on them?

LFBall
I hope for a Teaneck vs Plainfield rematch in the sectional finals. Honestly this team is special and after St. Anthony's and St. Benedict's, rightfully deserves the 3rd spot in the rankings. This is a throwback team if I ever saw one. They play like kids did years ago. Tough and with a purpose! In fact they remind me of those teams from the deep south that has tough kids who just get after it. I love this team because they are doing it, as is Teaneck, with home grown talent.

LS
Who is the best players you have ever seen in HS

LFBall
In no particular order. Tim Thomas, Shaheen Holloway, Vince Carter, Koby Bryant, Allen Iverson, Wayne McKoy, Dejuan Wagner, Lebron James, John Wall, Filipe Lopez, Lamont Odom, and Aquille Carr. There are more I just cannot think of them at this moment.

LS
What about the best HS Coaches?

LFBall
Bob Hurley, though it gets tired hearing TV people say his name when a St. Anthony's graduate is playing lol. Also Kevin Boyle, Moe Hicks, Johnny Mathis, Ray Haskins, Gary DeCaeser, Tiny Morton, Danny Hurley, Ron Naclerio, Abe Heyman (my HS Coach), Curtis March (Outstanding Coach but having to deal with a crazy like me makes him even that mush more special), Ruth Lovelace and her Staff, Bill Speigal (ex Ben Franklin Coach), and Howie Jones (ex Boys HS Coach) just to name a few.

LS
Last question. Why did you start your blog?

LFBall
Easy question and thanks for asking. I started my blog as a hobby. I wanted to say what I felt and not be censored by anyone. I felt I had alot to share and even more to say. I was going to really give it to certain people but decided to just keep it clean. But trust me the cheating and corruption in basketball is there and everyone from the NCAA to the AAU know. Kids are getting paid, parents get paid and perks, and even colleges are listening to power brokers who control who they hire based on the promise of special funding and future opportunities. Ohhhhhhh do not start me preaching. I better end this right now before I provide names!

LS
Thanks for your time

LFBall
No problem I enjoyed it.

Talking Prep Schools: Bogus or not Bogus?

2012-01-23T01:22:00.000-05:00

From January 17, 2010.

2012-01-23T00:22:00.000-05:00

SUNDAY, JANUARY 17, 2010

Some Thoughts, A reminder from how it was back in 2010

I really enjoyed watching a few games on TV yesterday. here are some thoughts that came to me, especially as it relates to Northeastern USA basketball.

As I watched the Texas game one of the commentators was raving about the great job being done by the Texas Coach Rick Barnes. Though I do agree Rick Barnes is a very good coach and program administrator, I wonder how close he would come to a national championship without the entire state of Texas behind him? Yes Rick is getting it done but everyone knows Texas is a southwest version of Kentucky in regards to spending money for athletics. As it is at Kentucky, North Carolina, Duke, Kansas, Tennessee, Indiana, and many others, Money will never get in the way of winning and recruiting players. So yes Rick Barnes will do well. He is supposed to and at the snap of his finger he could have a private lear jet ready to take him anywhere to get a player. And his teams want for nothing because they, like many others, are taken care of better than what 75 percent of the players will experience to rest of their lives.

Brings me to the NBA Developmental League. As I watched a game the other night involving two teams with ex college stars playing in a 95% empty arena in a city I have never heard of, I could not help but think how they must have NBA counselors and therapists on staff to treat all these players who were wined and dined their entire basketball lives. It was very odd watching these guys playing so hard in an empty building in an attempt to make it to the NBA. I would imagine only 5% at the most will ever get that opportunity. The rest will have to settle for bus rides to games, buying their own sneakers, and different living conditions from what they had at good ole big time university. Just imagine playing for Kentucky and being treated very special, and than playing for the Topeka Wildcats in front on 220 people in a building that holds 10,000. Wow!

Watched Greg E behind the bench at the Creighton/Wichita game. He looked in awe! There were 16,000 people at that game and they seemed like true fans. I would imagine he never expected to see that type of fan support at Creighton. Funny thing is years ago the Missouri Valley Conference was a league of tough teams with tough big guys. This was prior to the Big east, A10, etc. Well in recent years the league has returned. Most of the teams have tremendous followings. Not sure if Creighton gets 16,000 every home game but I would be stunned if they averaged less than 10,000 a game. I also wonder if they play all their home games in such a building. If so Greg might just enjoy the experience. Personally I feel he is a decent but not great talent at this point. But remember he really is a year ahead because he was supposed to be a freshmen this season. So now he will be back in his rightful year. And trust me, his new coach, Dana Altman, is exceptional and a very good teacher all the way back to his days as a JC Coach. This transfer give Greg a fresh start as he works towards being an NBA draft pick.

Looking forward to all the great games in Springfield Mass. At last I get to watch Michael Gilchrist. But it would be my luck that he misses the train from Camden that takes him to Elizabeth to connect with the bus going to Springfield. The Finley Prep vs St. Pats game might be worthy of taping on your TIVO.

I still feel St. Johns has turned the corner. I also think alot of teams are hoping not to meet them in the Big East Tournament where anything can happen. This year the BET will be magical and like Disney based on magical upsets that are sure to take place.

Seton Hall is a team I thought would have done better. Not sure why they have not won more, but I do feel they lost to teams that no one can say they were completely better than. Again I question the strength and conditioning guys working at SHU as much as the coaches and players. I also again say Pope, Lawrence, and Mitchell are not playing as well as they should. Yes Pope is rebounding, but he has so much more potential. Maybe Bobby needs to allow Dermon Player to get into the coaching motivation thing he does so well. I have seenDermon motivate guys into playing much better than they really are. But stupid fouls, turnovers, missed free throws, etc. are always affected by conditioning which impacts the mental part of the game. Seton Hall is another team that scares alot of people because when they get it together, watch out! And I am sure SHU Fans do not want to hear this, I feel all the SHU guys will return and .......Next season could be really special. Not giving up on them this year, just understanding what has happened thus far.

Rutgers loses to South Florida. Did anyone other than me expect this? If the game was at Rutgers I would expect a win. I feel Rutgers will be very competitive with South Florida, Providence, DePaul,Cincinnati, and St. Johns and Seton Hall based on rivalry and familiarity of players.

It seems everyone has FHJ gone at the end of the season. Maybe, maybe not. I don't feel RU has great talent but with a good run and better defense anything can happen. What hurts FHJ more than the record, is the recent stories, transfers, potential transfers, etc. Folks are less forgiving when the record is not good. With a good record all the negative stuff would be pushed under the rug. There are some upcoming games that RU should/could win. Lets see how this plays out.

One thing I will say about a potential coaching change is I hope RU does not make a change just to make a change. No career assistants, No ex players without experience, no HS guys (sorry guys but this is the Big East, experience a must!). A new coach will need to make a base salary of $1,000,000 plus with bonus incentives, new luxury RAC(9000 seats MAX) , and new practice facility. The new coach needs to know how to develop great players and players who have potential but were under the recruitment radar. The Coach should be a people person who could get people out to games based on appearances, TV, and radio shows. The new coach should have national connections and well liked by ESPN and CBS. With that in mind I would say guys like Seth Greenburg, Fran Frachillo, Paul Hewitt, Al Skinner, Jeff Capel, Eddie Jordan (but must have correct staff), Tim Welsh (not a first tier guy at this point though I like him alot), etc. These are the type of guys needed. I know alot of guys are anti Fran, but trust me if you want a national program he has to be strongly considered. I do feel Seth is the one you really need. And there is nothing wrong with going after that super guy who finally gets you where you want to be, It might take salary, plus attendance bonus, plus win bonus, plus special annuity, and more. If not this RU can always hire a HS Coach, Patrick Ewing with a few ex RU guys as Assistants, the Coach from Siena, or maybe hit the jackpot with the current coach at Northwestern who coached Princeton at one time.

4 comments:

rmacballer said...: LFBall- You are spot on regarding Coach Altman's ability as a teacher of the game. It does go all the way back to his days in the JUCO ranks when he had Mitch Richmond at Moberly, followed by being honored as Big 8 (before it became the Big 12) COY @ K-State, to more recently being named the All-Time MVC Centennial Coach. And to just follow up on your comment about the arena/fan base for the Bluejays of Creighton, here are a couple of facts from their media guide: They play all their home games in the Quest Center (site of yesterday's game), they have ranked in the top-15 nationally in home attendance each of the past three years. Last year, they were 12th in the nation averaging 15,930 fans per game (they had 16,900 yesterday). They rank behind only Memphis in non-BCS conference home attendence. Only 12 schools have made the postseason in each of the last 12 years - Arizona, Creighton, Duke, Florida, Gonzaga, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan State, Oklahoma State, Stanford and Syracuse. Creighton is one of six teams nationally with 20 or more wins in each of last 11 seasons. That list consists of Creighton, Duke, Florida, Gonzaga, Kansas and Syracuse. Not a bad resume. It's probably a safe bet that GE will be in good hands out in Omaha and will flourish both on and off the court.; January 17, 2010 4:25 PM
LFBall said...: I just did the same research on Creighton. That arena is wonderful. They even had 15000 plus for Savannah State. The school is a great academic place as well. Altman is the real deal. had the pleasure of him visiting me in my office years ago regarding area players. Strict but loving guy who looks out for his players. He is an outstanding coach. Seems Greg will get alot from this move. The MVC is much better than folks realize. Even the top BE schools would have a hard time winning at those schools. Thanks so much for your comment. Please feel free to comment often, even when you disagree lol.; January 17, 2010 11:53 PM
rmacballer said...: I too have had the pleasure of spending time with Coach Altman over the years. He's a guy who just "gets it", his teams are well coached, play hard, and most importantly get their diplomas at the end of their stay at Creighton. On a side note. As an old bergen county/nnjil guy who just returned to the area, I was happy to come upon your blog and have enjoyed it's content. Don't always agree with your observations (lol) but do look to see "what's up" with LFBall on the metro hoop scene. I'll be parked in front of the tube today myself watching the Big 3 NJ teams battle it out in Springfield.; January 18, 2010 7:05 AM
LFBall said...: How can you not always agree with me? lololol Just kidding! I am far from being an expert. But I do think I have some understanding of the game and the recruitment process. As a NNJIL guy I am sure you missed the Bergen Jamboree. I still remember taking my than 6th grade son all over the county for the early match-ups. Almost every site was sold out. That tournament has to be the best in the entire state. My son could not wait to play for Teaneck one day and he did. Boy those were the good ole days sitting with all the longtime BC fans like a guy named Micky who seemed to go to every football and basketball game every day. Still remember the various coaches around. I remember the Ridgewood Coach getting those to kids to play so hard despite looking like he should be in Hollywood or the Hamptons lol. The rivalries between the various teams and the different players were great, But again Creighton is a great program and one that many kids would appreciate. Thanks again for the comments. Please keep coming back.; January 18, 2010 9:37 AM

Quick Hits on a Football Sunday

2012-01-22T09:24:00.000-05:00

Having HS basketball games in North Jersey is very difficult today with the Giants game sceduled. But there will be some great action in Englewood that folks need to attempt to check out.

Noticed many of the HBCU's (Historical Black Colleges and Universities), which by the way have wonderfully and rightfully integrated their basketball teams, are starting to understand the commitment needed to be D 1 programs. I see attendance in both the MEAC and SWAC really improved this season. In fact Hampton had close to 7000 for their home loss to a powerful Norfolk State University team last night!

It seems St. Johns is oh so close, yet oh so far in getting where they need to be. Close game yesterday at The Garden with over 10,000 in attendance. All they need now is Seton Hall's Curtain which might not be needed by next season.

Seton Hall is still exciting and the best in the area.

Rutgers is exciting as well

The games involving RU, SHU, and SJU could be very special this season.

The games between SJU, RU, and SHU will definitely impact marketability of each program and recruitment success in the future. Trust me kids are watching the results and looking at attendance figures except the kids that choose Miami.

Still thinking about Aquille Carr! Wow! How much are those SHU season tickets?

Iona is really good!

FDU is really bad!

Just heard the NJAC rejected FDU. Said they wanted a better program more committed to winning. They are reaching out to Caldwell College!

I hate the way All County Teams are chosen in NJ. Popularity contests more than anything else. Year after year they pick based on a particular coaches clout or via an old boy behind the scene network.

In Bergen County, Teaneck has the 4 best players in the county on its great team and the Coach of the Year, and assistant Coaches of the year if there was such a thing. What will happen? They will take 2 kids from Teaneck, and the rest will be guys nowhere as good in the ten they choose and the other 2 Teaneck Kids will be 2nd Team. Crazy!

Coach of the year in Bergen County should be Jerome Smart. What might happen is they give it to some guy I do not even know at Ft. Lee or Old Tappan because he went from winning 2 games last season to winning 4 this season. Plus he hangs with the guys who vote. Crazy!

Same with the Girls picks. Do not like a coach and they take it out on the players by not voting for them. Sad and alot of other things I will not say on this blog but if you email me or call me I sure will give my opinion.

I was thinking about Sean Banks after talking to my basketball buddy JSHUTTLESWORTH yesterday. What is he doing? Is it too late? What happened? Is he the only one to blame for not being in the NBA despite having NBA talent? I say no! John Calipari shares the blame in ways I also will not mention on here. But what a waste! I wish him well though and hope he does have a productive life!

Michael Gilchrist has made me a believer in more ways than one. I guess he is as good as they said he was when he rarely showed at HS showcase events inn the off season. I thought he was hiding from the better players. Silly me he was only resting to prepare for a great freshmen season and a season that makes me think no one in America plays as hard as he does. Will he leave this year?

Since I am thinking about players let me ask the following:

What ever happened to Anthony Perry?
Where is Seth Brown?
Anyone see Eugene Harvey?
Where is Keith Hughes?
Is Dejuan Wagner around? Is his Dad still coaching in College? If not?
What about Billy Thompson?
Does Lenny Cook still come around?
Omar Cook?

On another note I heard that FDU does have a Hall of Fame. Unfortunately Tom Green is not a member. Talk about being mistreated! Person who sent me this info feels the court at the FDU arena (arena lolololol) should be named after him. I agree! Honestly I think if they hire a new coach he should be reconsidered along with a new AD. Maybe he should be the AD and hire the new coach. Talk about poetic justice!

I asked about past players because people need to understand basketball is temporary and the fuss made over young players goes away quickly, especially if they do not live up to the hype. If Stephon Marberry walked through Coney Island in July he would not be made over as he was in HS. Ditto Sabastian Telfair and the others! Pearl Washington as good as he was is not made over in Brooklyn.

Lenny Cook would be just a person at a game today as would Omar Cook. Just guys watching! Do you think Lenny Cook is a fan of Lebron James? Or does he have flashbacks every time he see's him on TV? Honestly LeBron should send Lenny a little check for allowing him to be on the stage with him at ABCD camp in Teaneck many years ago. Thats when it all started and the rest is positive and negative history.

This is why you work hard and have non basketball plans for the day it all ends. Nothing like an angry wannabe!

The Lenny Cook story would be a great one for TV and to be used in schools all over America.

I wonder what ever happened to that wonderful and sincere family, and I mean that sincerely, who really tried to help him by allowing him to live with them in Old Tappan NJ?

Does anyone feel Fred Hill Jr. will be able to really recruit the NY metro area anytime soon?

Will Aquille Carr ever play a game at Seton Hall? I sure hope so!

Binghamton is still perfect in the win/loss category. They have not won a game. Think the coach is safe? Great opportunity up there and they support that team!

Delaware, Ole Delaware. Mike Brey was a PR machine and good coach who got it done. Sellouts every game, huge support, and winning teams. Now......? Another great job! I still say Delaware blew it by not hiring Kevin Willard after offering him the position a few years back. DUMB DUMB DUMB! He was Mike Brey but younger! Thats what happens when you feel you are better and holier than thou!

Saw the new arena, yes arena, at Boston University. What a nice facility! They are now a true mid major player for the top transfers and very good players not going high major. Watch out FDU, there is competition.

That's it for now! Off to the super market to pick up goodies for the football game today. And the funny thing is I am not even a huge football fan.

FDU, FDU, and All FDU!

2012-01-20T07:07:00.001-05:00

Good Morning:

I was pumped up thinking FDU had won a game last night. Silly me! I continue to see the rivals scoreboard and obviously something is wrong because it only provides the score of one of the teams per listing score. I thought, or took for granted, that maybe it was the winning team. After doing some research that proved harder than expected, I saw they lost to that power house team Robert Morris. Robert Morris? I still remember when that school was a powerful Junior College program recruiting the tri-state area. They became a D1 program and for years played in a band box gym. Now they have a new facility that is pretty nice. This is what happens when a school has support from the administration and the athletic department has vision. It is only a matter of time before NJIT is REALLY a better program than FDU.

I looked at the FDU Roster this morning and believe it or not they have pretty good talent including a few D1 transfers from pretty good programs. They have height and players who have basketball skills. FDU is far from the Little Sisters of The Poor University in regard to actual talent. Interesting no one in Bergen County actually realizes this so they do not come out to games. I mean the talent of some of the players are at least A10 or lower Big East!

Well, either they get it together or honestly they need to turn to the NJAC and request to be admitted. Now FDU has another branch in Madison I think. FDU Madison and they play a D3 schedule. I wonder who would win if they played against each other in a game called the FDU Challenge? Better yet I wonder if The School President or any of his Administration would attend?

I get emails all the time from FDU fans asking why I am so hard on FDU and what I would do to fix the problem. Well, here is what I would do. And remember it is business and not personal.

I would first do a serious evaluation of the sports program top to bottom. I would evaluate the AD, and all coaches to see if they are on the same page and moving in a direction best for FDU as opposed to a direction best for themselves.

I would determine if certain coaches are the correct people for the FDU job! Does not mean they are bad coaches, just means do they fit.

Basketball wise I know they made a mistake in the last hire based on some behind the scene stuff. It's OK because stuff happens. But at least give the guy you hired the support to make the hire look correct!

Increase the basketball budget to at least the budget of a lower A10 program

Not sure about the staff in place for basketball. I am not sure because I have not seen them play with a full deck of cards. But one thing for sure, a 1 to 3 win season would be reason for concern.

Now if they hire a new coach sometime in the future they must decide if they wish to be competitive in D1 mens basketball. If so they will do the following.

Make sure the AD is a person with vision and know how from an established athletic program who understands the need for butts in the seats and putting a winner on the court. If not get a new one!

Fund Raise and put money into restoring The Arena (Gym) to at least where it was with bleachers surrounding the court giving it a true arena feeling. HS gyms in Pennsylvania are 100 times nicer and more attractive.

Look into hiring a real PR and Marketing firm to sell the program to Bergen County NJ and the surrounding areas.

Get more local businesses involved. Not the Pizza shops and bars as much as the corporations and retail stores such as Bloomingdales, Saks, and Car Dealers. Ticket give aways, special promotion nights, kid clubs, youth basketball nights, Jr. Knight program, free refreshment night, Team clinics throughout Bergen County, and more to improve fan interest and support.

Buy more advertising, which could be sponsored by local businesses. McDonald's presents FDU vs Robert Morris. Every person in attendance gets a free Big Mac with a ticket stub if FDU wins!

Redo locker rooms and create a real players lounge (if they do not have one)

Upgrade schedule to more A10 teams and every team in NJ if possible.

Lastly support the Men's basketball Club! Get them involved. Some very good people in that organization!

These are just some of the things that come to mind in regards to FDU basketball. I know they dislike me. I am sorry but I honestly remember the great times in that gym and I know what it could be with the right people.

Finally. FDU is a wonderful school with some great people attending and graduating each year. I hope the basketball can one day catch up to the many fine graduates that come out of FDU each year!

PS Did you folks know that Tom Green is going into the NEC Hall of Fame? Ummmmmm! I wonder if he is in the FDU Hall of Fame? I wonder if they have one? Should I ask the administration? Nah, they would not know!

I can be Reached at LFBall@AOL.COM

Thursday, January 19, 2012

2012-01-19T08:44:00.000-05:00

What a few days this has been in local college basketball. Rutgers was a bright spot going 1 and 1 after losing to West Virginia and beating Notre Dame at home in front of a disappointing crowd. Is it Rutgers cannot sell out the RAC or is it Notre Dame does not bring people out as they did years ago? Where are those Subway Alumni? I still remember a 500 record Notre Dame team begging to get invited to the NIT and actually packing the place under Richard "Digger" Phelps. Digger was some marketing genius at both ND and Fordham before that. But if you ask the student athletes on the ND campus about the guy they run into while they work out in the fitness center or see on campus you would surely be surprised what many have to say.

Rutgers fans really need to support that team in large numbers to prove a new or renovated facility is needed!

Seton Hall lost last night to Villanova. OK it was a loss, and one they could have avoided with better and more consistent play. But we also have to remember that game was at Villanova and against a Big East Team and not one from the Pennsylvania Athletic Conference or the NJAC which is the league waiting on FDU. It was not Chaney State, or East Stroudsburg University, it was Villanova of the Big East! Villanova played hard and with a purpose because they really are attempting to salvage what has been a surprising and disappointing season. So it was a loss away from home against a team they really are better than at this time though the final score says otherwise.

Now I am not Kevin Willard and he has forgotten more than I will ever know about coaching. But how in heavens name does Jordan Theodore, a very good point guard, take 16 shots and make 2 while Herb Pope, though lacking great hops and athletic ability, only takes 8 shots in 31 minutes? Are you kidding me? How does Edwin take 16 shots and makes 5 as well? So the duo from Patterson Catholic HS takes 32 shots by themselves and the leader and top rated player on the team takes 8 and makes 4? I love Jordan Theodore's game but right now he needs to distribute and get others involved as he is capable of doing and has done in other games. His future is now and he needs to make this a wonderful season to remember.

On the other end of the court Jayvaughn Pinkston had a career game scoring 23 points including 13 of 17 from the FT stripe. I wonder if it is easier to be a workhorse when you get the ball and the person you match up with on the other end gets 8 shots so you really can preserve your energy? Ummmmmm!
Maalik Wayns also had a good game with a double-double including 15 of 16 from the charity stripe. Was there some sort of PG ego competition which made the SHU PG not distribute better? Again I really do not know what happened but to see Pope with 8 shots is something that makes you go ummmm!

St. Johns with the watered down roster and coaches with sneakers and open collar shirts lost to South Florida. Nothing to be ashamed about considering both are BE members and both recruit kids in similar fashion. I really do not understand what is going on at SJU but to me a D1 program with 7 players should play a bit better and more consistant. Especially a program with as many top 75 HS players as they have! Lou Carnessecca did it with 1 or 2 top HS stars and a bunch of All NYC type players who worked and played hard. The glamor of the program remains but the end result is not what was expected.

Maybe it is me but I really thought SJU would be the team in the NY Metro Area this season. I would bet that SJU has the highest basketball budget, including the largest recruiting budget by a long shot. A brand new renovated field house, a Hollywood Head Coach, a bunch of very high paid assistant coaches, the number 1 Assistant Coach in America, a great fan base, and a highly rated recruiting class.

Maybe they need a bunch of role players to compliment the kids on the roster just waiting for NBA opportunities? Maybe Ronald Roberts, who is averaging double figures at St. Joes of the A10 and not of Brooklyn, would have been a great piece to the puzzle before he (as they said.....smile) decided not to attend SJU.

And again I really do not understand that grunge look with the coaches wearing sneakers and no neck-ties. What the heck is that about? Maybe they are doing that until the day they resemble the team they are supposed to be. No pride in coaches appearance, so I guess it boils over to no pride in performance. Why not just wear sandals and shorts?

Seems like a new trend is taking place. More and more good players are transferring to low D1 programs from teams in power conferences. Just read where a kid is transferring to Rider as opposed to Arkansas after averaging around 11 a game at his previous school which was in a power conference. I also noticed Wagner has a transfer who was Mr. Basketball in his home state. He chose Wagner as opposed to going to a huge university. I guess kids are not taking chances of transferring and not being stars! I wonder who will be transferring to FDU? Great opportunity at a good academic school right near NYC. Nice campus and games are held in The Rothman Center, right on campus. Hey that sounds great. Like I said in the past, the grass always looks greener until you step on it!

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

2012-01-18T11:18:00.000-05:00

It continues to be hot in local college basketball. Just think of what it will be when more local HS Stars decide to stay home or at least attend a BE school that plays within hours or where they reside. I often think about this and I know it is a dream at this point because the grass always looks greener on the other side until you actually walk on it and find out the color is nothing but paint used to fool you!

Sometimes what you need and desire is right in front of you. Media....Check! Coverage....Check! Exposure....Check! Involved Fans....Check (once it all comes together)! Academics....Check! Chance to be part of something special....Check! And do not forget all the great things associated with playing in a area such as the NY Metropolitan Area.

If those southern schools can keep the exceptional southern players home, local schools can do the same in time. Very few great players from NC, Virginia, and even Maryland attend non ACC schools unless it is Georgetown or they get some extra perks (wink-wink). Now Maryland, especially Baltimore, is crucial because the loyalty to the ACC is not the same as it is in Washington DC and Virginia. Now before people come at me I will admit there are exceptions to what I write. Just not a lot!

Interesting history I heard years ago. The NBA Draft at one time was a territorial draft meaning local NBA teams had the first dips on players attending college near where they played NBA games. Because of this many NBA teams supported colleges in recruiting certain players to have them in their territory when it was draft time! So you had teams such as CCNY, St. Johns, LIU, Seton Hall, etc. doing well with a little support from the local NBA franchise.

Seton Hall is still the best of the locals with Iona rated 2 on my list. I do wonder who would win between the two based on the big 3 Iona has who all really are BE talents and could start at many BE schools. I also wonder if Iona could beat Rutgers at this time? Or St. Johns? This brings me to another point. Why is there no Big 5 type of set-up locally with the 3 BE teams along with Fordham, Iona, and Maybe FDU......just kidding and seeing if you were paying attention, maybe Manhattan playing each other during the season with an area championship at stake? I think it would be great basketball and help each school recruit the area better.

Loved the Rutgers win over Notre Dame because Notre Dame is a national program and a national name. Huge win! Yes, it is getting hot around the areas basketball teams.

Even FDU won a game the other day against the Liberty Travel Agency All-Stars! Oops I meant to say Liberty University or was it Longwood University? Let me go and check. Be right back. I am back and boy did I have it wrong. FDU actually lost to Longwood by 4 at home in front of friends and family. I could have sworn I saw a score posted that had them winning the game in OT. Maybe I was dreaming!!!!! I wonder what league Longwood is a part of? Do you think a home game against Longwood was done as a scheduled definite win?

Seton Hall plays Villanova tonight and you can bet that Jay Wright will have his team ready to steal one. It will be tough but winnable game for Seton Hall based on momentum and great play from more than one player. If the game is on campus it will be that much tougher because it will mean 6500 right on top of you. At an area arena it will be a bit more space, at least it will seem that way. No predictions from me but I do feel Seton Hall is the better team.

Watched some HS basketball on the tube yesterday and was impressed with St. Anthony's (what else is new), Finley Prep (When you have a budget larger than FDU in HS why not be a power), and Simeon, though they got spanked by the team from the dessert. I also watched a bit of Christ The King against Mater Dei, the California team that everyone raves over each year. No contest while I watched but I sure thought the California team was better than people gave them credit for after losing to Gil St. Bernard of New Jersey, the 3rd rated HS team in the state as rated by many but not me.

New Jersey HS basketball is better than New York City HS basketball talent wise. Much of this has to do with the many NYC players attending NJ schools based on better transportation connections and the need for more strusture. Their words and not mine! I still feel Gil St. Bernard is not as good as Plainfield, Teaneck, St. Benedict's, or St. Anthony's. In fact I feel Hudson Catholic would beat them if they played this week. But I can be wrong! I look forward to the Plainfield vs Gil St. Bernard game coming up soon in the watered down Prime Time Shootout.

Monday, January 16, 2012

2012-01-16T14:41:00.000-05:00

Interesting thought occurred to me this morning concerning Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his fight for equality for all people. I can not speak about 40 years ago, but I can speak for how life is today among young men playing HS and College Basketball. Racial issues seem almost non existent among players. Players seem to respect each other regardless of skin color or where they are from. Think about it!

Now coaches and athletic departments are not always that way unfortunately. There should not be an all white or all black coaching staff or actual college team anywhere in America! If Brigham Young University can integrate , so can those deep south historical Black Universities including Moorhouse where Dr. King attended in case you did not know. They say Moorehouse men are very special. By the way you would be amazed at the arena they have on campus. Not huge but nice just as Florida AM who has a nice 10,000 seat facility better than anything their next door neighbor Florida State has on CAMPUS.

It seems most college players have lived what Dr. King dreamed. But the others involved have a long way to go. Some D1 schools still only hire token Black Coaches to recruit and they have zero say so on the bench. Some Black Coaches are fired and it takes them years to get new jobs as oppossed to others who seem to find jobs much quicker and often are picked up the following year after being let go. Please note I am referring to competent coaches not hiring a coach just to be hiring a minority. But again some things are just not fair and that applies to the world of Athletics. We have come a long way, but we are still quite a way from where we need to be. And again, this goes both ways. I for one am so happy to see the various Black Conferences with White players on the various teams and even some White head Coaches and Assistant Coaches. Dr. King would applaud this. So would he applaud the steps other schools such as Kentucky, Mississippi, and Mississippi State have taken in recent years.

Locally Seton Hall, Rutgers, St. Johns, and most of the others including even FDU, have done it the right way and practiced what Dr. King hoped for.

HS Basketball

Electric, moving, exciting, creative, entertaining, interesting, fun, competitive, and outstanding! Who? Why Aquille Carr of course! In a nutshell one of the best players I have ever seen pound for pound. This kid is the best entertainer I have seen on the court since Julius Erving played in The Harlem Rucker before playing in the ABA. Now I see why the crime was almost non existent when he had a game. He is that good and that entertaining with a wonderful attitude with teammates who are so horrible they could not start jv for Lockadovia HS in Brattleboro Vermont! He was patient with them, he was encouraging with them, and he made them competitive because he is really that good and that tough!

This kid could be the best HS Player I have ever seen along with Tim Thomas, Vince Carter, and Pearl Washington. Is he a program changer? In more ways than one! He will help Seton Hall win games from day 1, help Seton Hall attract players, and help increase attendance to the point the curtain will need to go to the tailor to be shortened because the Seton Hall games all of a sudden will become the place to be. In fact I need to get on the phone and make friends with that coaching staff or at the least buy season tickets lol.

Now the trick will be getting him to sign in November. We all know a verbal will not stop other schools from getting in touch with him through people in the Baltimore area. And we also know that he will be offered some serious cash down the line from one of those schools who couldn't care less about him as a student and just wants to win and make money. So what do I do if I am SHU? I assign an assistant coach to him! That coach will move to Baltimore and take an apartment near him just as schools did years ago. I would than start recruiting the big 6 ft 10 kid so I can go to more games. Than maybe the other guard! But no matter where he looks he will see Seton Hall represented! Please read my blog from over a week ago where I discuss the recruiting process to fully understand what happens now.

Getting this super talented and exceptional player is as huge as any commitment I have seen since Filipe Lopez and Zendon Hamilton signed with St. Johns, or maybe when Phil Sellers turned down Notre Dame and went to Rutgers, or even when Jeff Ruland turned down Joe B Hall and Kentucky to go to Iona. All program changers based on success that came with the signings. In the case of Seton Hall this is Eddie Griffin/Tony El/Andre Barrett rolled into one commitment.

Basketball in NJ has changed for the best. Rutgers is in a position to be a post season team for years to come. The natural rivalry with Seton Hall will be one that even the politicians will get involved in. Yes, sonny days are here again in the state of NJ. Every kid will now be attracted to local BE schools and the others will get whats left because they too will benefit from Rutgers, Seton Hall, and St. Johns being better.

Speaking of St. Johns I wonder if Steve Lavin ever returns based on his illness? Will he return or just go back to the broadcast booth? If he does not return, I would imagine Coach Cluess from Iona will be looked at strongly. However that would be something that passes through Lou Carnesseca based on a few items I heard about but not necessarily factual.

Speaking of College Coaches I think Steve Masiello from Manhattan will be on some lists after this season or next season. I also feel Danny Hurley will get major offers after this season. How does Danny leaving Wagner affect me? Well, now my Grandson has to work harder to be in position to be recruited by Danny Hurley, who I think will be an all-time great college coach when it is all said and done.

More HS Stuff

The Armory was.......an armory lol. But it brought back memories of me as a young boy watching the ECAC game of the week on channel 9. Elnardo Webster was lighting folks up and big George Govan rebounded what he missed. Saw a game they played against LIU and the place was rocking as a guy named Larry Newbold turned it out!

Watching Aquille Carr against..............................................? Wow I almost forgot because all I remember is his outstanding performance. Against St. Benedict'a is what I was saying. And trust me when I say St. Benedict's is a very good program with some great players. But watching Carr make a game against them competitive with one of the weakest group of teammates I have ever seen was a sight to see.

St. Benedict's has great coaching and even better players . Isaiah Brisco is a great freshmen with tons of upside. On a side note lets get that package deal to SHU, RU, or SJU with him and Karl Towns in the future lol. But this kid despite the baby fat is very good. Also on the team is a true PG and a good one at that in Tyler Innis, the Canadian import destined for huge things. Melvin Johnson? Easily the 2nd best senior player in New Jersey who unfortunately will be playing in front of 3300 fans at Miami as opposed to future sell outs at the 3 local BE schools. And last but not least on my kids with tremendous upside is a guy who someone will steal in November. I am talking about Isaiah Watkins the 6 ft 9 skilled kid from Canada who is battling confidence issues. I am telling anyone who will listen, this kid will be a great college player! They were way too good for Carr's team Patterson HS. But Carr sure was the best player on the court.

This event sure has the potential to have better match ups in the future because the games were way too one sided. All of them! I would have loved to see Aquille go against Teaneck and their dynamic little PG because that might have been even more interesting, Teaneck kid is tough and quick with confidence.

St. Antony's won easily over St. Peters zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Teaneck beat a Canadian team zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

The games really were non competitive and at this stage of the season does not really help as the teams head down the home stretch to county tournaments and the States. Just saying.........

Speaking of great upside. One day Neville Finch from Teaneck will be a Monster in the paint! As soon as he gets consistent and learns to control his emotions while playing hard. Chris Jones will be a 6 ft 6 guard in college. Based on his work ethic and great attitude I feel he could be a big time player at a big time University. Juel Hernandez? A junior who all you have to remember is Ricardo Greer, the former Pitt star. Shout out to the Coaching Staff at Teaneck led by Head Coach jerome Smart, who really is just that smart (smile). These guys really are goof to the players and for the players. Teaneck Basketball continues in the footsteps of the great Curtis March!

More College Stuff

Seton Hall will finish the season with a winning record. In fact I think they will at least be 23-7. I also feel Rutgers will be around 500 but watch out for the next 5 years because they really have turned the corner. RU basketball is again entertaining and very competitive without the BS ! I do not even mind sitting in the seats that need to be redone. SJU? I say around 500 also but wonder what is really going on. I really thought it would be sell outs at the Garden by now.

Did anyone know that the schedule FDU played thus far was not really super competitive? They did play both Louisville and Providence for the guarantee money for more hoagies and sodas after the games. But honestly speaking they could beat any other team they play. I predict they will win at least 2 games before the season ends. Wait their phone is ringing and it is the NJAC asking for a meeting!

NJIT really would be the top seed the areas losers tournament with Binghamton, St. Peters, and FDU. But pushing to be included is Marist of the NEC. Or is it the MAAC? Or maybe the ECAC? No thats no longer a league so it must be one of those mentioned. I guess NJIT will get the bye! St. Peters will get it together. Lost a lot of players to graduation. Next year they will rebound and be more competitive. Binghamton still draws fans and when they win it will be a hard place to play. The question is when will they win? FDU? Same story, different day!

I would love to see Iona go against Seton Hall for the area championship. After all they are the two best teams in the area.

I am still looking for any player who attended Iona who is not successful in life. Has to be one or two. No matter how hard I try I cannot find any ex player who is not well spoken and successful. I guess Jeff Ruland knew what he was doing when he signed there many years ago (smile, wink-wink).

Have a great evening. I can be reached at LFBall@aol.com or 570 484-8235

Saturday, January 14,2012

2012-01-14T08:49:00.000-05:00

College Basketball

Biggest news from yesterday was South Florida upsetting Seton Hall at SOUTH FLORIDA! Yes Seton Hall actually lost a game. Does this mean the season is over? Does this mean they are on the decline? Does this mean they have not had a great season thus far? Does this take away the great play of many of the players this season?

Everyone reading this blog knows and understands the answers to the questions asked above. OK a few people are confused? The answer to all above is not A, B, or C. it is No To All Above! Did anyone feel Seton Hall would lose another game this season? Of course! Seton Hall fans as well as supporters of area Big East Teams who are not affiliated with other schools wanted them to at least not lose heading into the Rutgers Game. But guess what? Stuff happens! Nothing to be ashamed of and sure not anything to make people jump off the ship.

As far as SHU fans? I understand the hurt and disappointment they feel this morning. Great fans often live and breath based on the success of their teams. Seton Hall with a tremendous group of fans and followers are no exception. However, despite those feelings we all must remember the game was an away game against another Big East Team with Big East Players and not against FDU. Heck if they lost to FDU I would be going bananas and might even jump in the lake behind my house! It was a setback, though a minor one in the scheme of things and in no way takes away from the siccess and positives of the SHU season thus far.

SHU has a tough schedule coming up including an away game against Villanove, who is struggling this season but will be a hard out for SHU considering the game is at Villanova. After that a few games even more difficult are on tap including games vs Notre Dame, Louisville, Connecticut, and a getting better each day Rutgers. In a nutshell SHU and everyone else is in the conference season and the Big East is a very hard conference.

So where does this leave Seton Hall? I for one will be stunned if Seton Hall does not win 20 games. 20 games gets them into a post season tournament and signifies a great season, though very unexpected, with more to follow. My last question on SHU. Did anyone expect them to be 15 and 3 at this stage of the season with the quality wins they have? Right! Case closed!

HS

Going to the games in Jersey City this afternoon, stoping at that great southern and soul food restaurant IRMAS for some smothered Turkey Wings! I cannot watch Aquille Carr on an empty stomach because I just might get sick based on getting too excited! Interesting that St. Anthony;s is not playing the final game. That game will have Teaneck against a Canadian team with a few players. I did say players and not Playaz so do not get it confused. Going down to see Mr. Carr and to watch Teaneck. But honestly would this not be a better event with better teams? Dematha, Christ The King, Cardoza or Lincoln from NYC, or even Gil St. Bernard's, who must be playing some national schedule because I have not seen them in any of the local showcase events. I sure hope they are not hiding out! Well, the line-up sure is far from an attractive one but still worthy of attending. Same thing with the homeless classic that at one time was a premier NJ event at Elizabeth HS, and The Prime Time Shootout in Trenton NJ.

Speaking of Cardoza, Coach Ron Naclerio, a real good guy and basketball fanatic, is devastated over his star player Jermaine Lawrence leaving Queens to attend Pope John XXIII in Sparta NJ. Unlike St. Benedict's, St. Anthony's, and St. Patrick's, Sparta NJ is not a short rain ride away from NYC. I know because I happen to eat there often at a wonderful steakhouse on Lake Mohawk. Either this kid and his family moved near by, he is staying with relatives, he is staying with a coach, or he has a host family, because in no way can a kid from Queens or Brooklyn travel there via public transportation in good time. The other schools mentioned are really not that far from NYC via The Path Train or other forms of NY/NJ transit.

Knowing Coach Naclerio as well as I do, I certainly can testify to how much he cares for his players and the things he does to make them better. I also know he will miss the attention this young man brought to the Cardoza games and practices in the form of D1 coaching staffs. In regards to Sparta NJ? It is said that in the late 60's it was the place that "Flower Children" moved and is the most upscale town in Sussex County. Some even say it is the Franklin Lakes of Sussex County. But again it is sure an interesting transfer to leave a NYC power for a team rated 3307 nationally! One thing for sure, he is closer to Seton Hall and Rutgers!

What is Gil St. Bernard's? Where are they? Anyone see Gil St. Bernard's? Well I sure cannot wait to see them play against Plainfield in a few weeks. That game will be the credibility bowl of NJ HS basketball. Gil St. Bernard does have very good players and coaching. They have at least 3 players if not 4 with division 1 potential including a senior who signed with Bucknell University, the premier program in The Patriot League,

Enjoy your hoops today and "Lets Go Area basketball!" Even FDU lol!

January 12, 2012

2012-01-12T12:07:00.000-05:00

College Basketball

the 2011-2012 Season has been very exciting in the case of a few local college basketball teams. Lets start with the great win by Rutgers at Pitt last night.

Rutgers went into a place where until this season Pitt had lost very few games. They went in to win as opposed to not lose or just compete. Seems like the same thing but to play to win is playing with confidence knowing what you are capable of accomplishing. Playing not to lose or to compete is playing hoping to win and having a great showing regardless of the outcome and final score.

In the past Rutgers fell into the hoping not to lose category. But it is certainly a new day in Piscataway and again the future is very bright at the RAC. Young players with confidence along with a motivating coaching staff can do that. The interesting thing about Rutgers is the team is so young. I am sure out of conference scheduling will be difficult in the next few years because teams will not want to play them. This means the out of conference schedule could just be action packed with teams like Florida, Kansas, North Carolina, Kentucky, and yes..........Baylor.

I tend to cringe when reading a few Rutgers fans saying Pitt is not that good so the win was not huge. Though no harm was meant, it sure is a put down of the effort those young fellas gave last night. Pitt is Pitt! Hard out when they play home and plenty of hoops success in the past and also in the future. When you can beat Florida, UConn, Pitt, and hold serve in the games you are supposed to win, it means great success is taking place. So again great job by Rutgers helping in bringing great college basketball back to the NY Metropolitan area along with Seton Hall.

Seton Hall continues to be the darling of local college basketball. Heck they are becoming a darling on the national scene! But one thing for sure, people are not looking at them, as a Cinderella team such as VCU, George Mason, or even Gonzaga in the early years. They are a legit program in a premier conference playing well. And if people do not believe that the success of Seton Hall made it easier for Aquille Carr to commit, they are mistaken. The program potential is very clear! Again I still remember 15,000 at Seton Hall games, including celebrities, years ago at The Medowlands.

The Rutgers vs Seton Hall game will be a season highlight when it is played. I really hope they make the game the Governors Cup with the entire state being made aware of the game taking place.

St. Johns continues to struggle. When they get it together, and they will in time, we will have a basketball hotbed in the NY area. Yes I want all three teams to do well and establish natural rivalries that will lead to sold out arenas and gyms. I want the Governor of NY to bet against the Governor of NJ on the outcome of the St. Johns vs both Seton Hall and Rutgers. .

St. Johns just seems to be missing something and no one can figure it out. The players are pretty good but young. But so were the Fab 5 years ago! In the meantime I just hope they put on neck ties and shoes for the games they play in the future because that grunge look is getting very tired. Plus what is the purpose? Not like they are on a winning streak!

Just looking at box scores and noticed Temple won at St. Louis. Great win for the Owls who continue to get better this season and remains a favorite in the A10.
last
Also interesting is Towson lost again in front of 700 reported attendees. I wonder what their season ticket number is?

Interesting to see Umass beat NC Charlotte in front of 2700 at UMass. Wow where did the people who did the marketing go when John Calipari left? I guess the coach is important for attendance. 2700 in that 10,000 seat building they built to replace "The Cage?"

Now on the contrary John Calipari left Memphis and they hired a guy who the fans love. He has recruited well and last night, as it is on most game nights, 16,000 plus were in attendance. That program continues to do well and the future is very bright.

Two very good local games tonight. Manhattan at Iona should be interesting though I expect Iona to win the game against Manhattan. FDU at LIU? Now who do I think will win? What a hard thing to figure out. OK, I will just say LIU! Now you people know I was not doing a blog without mentioning FDU!

One last item about Rutgers Gym which is called the RAC and not the RAG, as some people call it lol. I agree with those who feel all that is needed is:

New larger chairs all over the facility including the bleachers that the students sit in, and the bleachers near the RU bench.
A new sound system
Video scoreboards
newly decorated hallways
additional bathrooms. expanded concession stands
a new practice facility attached to the RAC
a new paint job throughout
an expanded from the outside in lobby area leading to the facility
10 special hospitality suites in the place of the offices above for big donors and receptions

By the way that started with me thinking just new seats and a sound system. Than my mind just went all out.

Well, thats it for today. Hope you enjoy this as much as I do writing it. EMail me at LFBall@aol.com if you wish to further discuss anything I write.

Wednesday December 29, 2012

2012-01-11T10:36:00.003-05:00

Good Morning basketball fans, even those who cheer for good ole FDU! Honestly fair weather fans are the worst kind. Anyone and everyone supports a winner. But when you see people still coming out in the thousands to see a losing team play anyone who does not have a player with the last name James, Jordan, Bryant, Jabbar/Alcinder, etc. you know that program has support. Unfortunately even when FDU won games the support was almost non existant. I even remember them going to the NCAA's and returning home for a huge celebration that attracted 100 plus people including yours truly. Support? At some places almost non existent.

This brings me to my point of program support. Coaches do need to be visible and part of a community to assist in efforts to get a community involved in a program. This has successfully been done for years in the Junior College ranks in places like Kansas, Texas, and Florida. Of course in many of the towns in those sleepy areas there is not much else to do except attend a game with great players who are a year or two away from the big stage. However, the marketing and promotions put into getting people out to games, including many who travel from as far away as 50 miles, is something that needs to be duplicated. But not by the coach as much as the entire athletic departrment including the sports marketing and sports information departments. Do not have one? Than maybe you should not be a D1 school! Have an ineffective one? You people know the answer to that !

I remember an ex coach at FDU named Tiny Green left to work at an A10 school. When things did not work out he returned to FDU and ran the basketball promotions during games. FDU was actually exciting and enjoyable and alot of this was a result of Tiny Greens efforts. Kids came out and people really enjoyed the FDU experience. This guy did a GREAT JOB! Than he was re-hired as a coach and the halftime activities and other stuff unfortunately stopped. Well, as you can see I think College Basketball should be an athletic experience and not just a game. It takes a team of people working together to get fans out to watch basketball games. And that goes from Junior Colleges to D2 and D3 programs like Gannon College where they have had great crowds for many years.

Area Basketball

Great but expected win last night for The Pirates of Seton Hall University. I said expected because I want to really emphasize the work "expected." It sure is a great feeling for SHU fans and supporters to be able to expect success. Years ago every game was a challenge and even if SHU was playing FDU, you could not predict the outcome.

Seton Hall is now in the top 20 nationally and the future seems very bright based on patient and selective recruiting that has yielded positive results including "The Crime Stopper." I wonder if the Newark Police Department helped in his recruitment (smile). Seton Hall is relevant again and kids are including them on final lists. I predict very good players transferring from other schools will call Seton Hall as well to join up with a program that is on the verge of being like the "PJ" teams of the past.

Attendance wise they are doing just fine and hopefully in the near future they will need to renovate that curtain to make it a tad bit shorter. Looking forward to attending a game but first I need to get a pair of good sunglasses because the future and potential of SHU in the Prudential Center is awfully bright.

Rutgers plays at Pitt tonight and what a place to play. Pitt is a hard out at home, although Danny Hurley and Wagner went in and came out with a huge win a few weeks back. Rutgers has a chance because although the team is young, they are talented. Unfortunately with youth, comes inconsistency. So be patient Rutgers fans. I know I will !!! Win or lose this team has a bright enough future for me to also wear sunglasses while watching them.

Notre Dame is quietly 11-6 and gaining momentum in the BE

Harvard is the team in the Ivy League? Are you kidding me? What ever happened top Penn (7-9) and Princeton? Say what? Harvard is not really part of the Ivy League anymore because recruitment wise they are similar to certain SEC and SWC Universities (smile). Oh Ok they just stepped up their recruitment efforts and found the best players in the world with outstanding grades and SAT scores to attend Harvard as opposed to accepting an athletic scholarship somewhere else. Well education is the key to your future and a Harvard education will open doors,,,,,,,

Providence is really well coached it seems. Soon the Duncan Donuts Arena will be a hard place to play for many teams. Providence spanked Louisville 90 to 59 last night. Do you actually think Louisville is not still there practicing since midnight? I wonder if the teams and players get free coffee and donuts when they play there?

Think Louisville gets free Kentucky Fried Chicken? I wonder if South Florida gets Papa Johns Pizza?
Does Memphis players can get to ride home on a Federal Express plane landing near where they live? How about Arkansas players? Think they get a huge discount at Walmart? Just wondering.....

Baylor is now 16 - 0 Wow, what a great job they have done getting kids to spend the winters in Waco Texas. Coaching must be outstanding because they beat out a number of great programs for some of the kids they have. Similar to Jim Valvano at Iona years ago when he out recruited Joe B hall and Kentucky for Jeff Ruland, even though Joe B arrived in a private jet for the home visit.

This Just In!!!!!! Important Notice!!!! Towson University has requested inclusion in that tournament with FDU, Binghamton, St. Peters, and NJIT. They claim they are worthy. After seeing they are now 0 and 13, I say yes. In fact it looks like NJIT would get the first round bye. Stay tuned!

HS

Season getting deep! Read a Mom on NJ.Com HS Forum politely and intelligently tell a person off for starting a rumor about her son transferring from St. Anthony's in this his senior year.

Read on the same forum a parent rightfully tell all AAU and HS coaches who were reading that they need to stop claiming the kids as their own. You people know the saying because I have said the same thing many times on here. It makes me cringe when I hear non family members say things such as "He Is One Of Mine" or "That's My Kid." And please note sometimes it is not the actual statement as much as it is the tone and spirit in which it is said. We all know that coaches mean they look out for kids and care about kids, but to me when you say it bragging you do so to take credit. Do you claim the last kid on the bench with zero skills at this time? How about if a kid gets into trouble? Do you say "I have To go Help One OF My Kids Get Out Of Jail?" Those are the kids of their Parents! And unless you are the legal guardian, you have no right claiming a person you had no role in bringing into this world. How about just saying "He Is One Of My Players."

On another note I also cringe when I hear a family member say "We Are Transferring" or "We Need To be Where We Are Comfortable." How about this one which I heard at the New Years Jump off: "We are changing up and playing for." Who the heck is "We?"

Also saw someone ask a certain very good to great players Dad why he comments so much on the NJ.Com HS BBall Forum. I thought though the person asking meant no harm, it was a silly question. The parent answers because it is his Son and he, the parent, knows and loves the game of basketball. Why can't he correspond and enjoy his sons success? Why can't he correct things that are false? Lastly he is a Father first and a basketball coach and fan second. Thus we as parents tend to go into protective mode about our children. And lastly when a parent understands basketball, coaches basketball, and played basketball, he or she will be much more involved than the non athletic parent or the parent who did not even know what a basketball was until their son started playing.

Folks are not giving Gil St. Bernard's much credit as one of New Jersey's best HS teams. After all they beat a great program from California. But until that in state game against Plainfield, they will always have doubters. In fact though I love the coaching, the guard play, and even the inside presence, I wonder just how good they really are? I will be at that Plainfield game when it takes place.

St. Patricks has lost a few games that they could have won so far this season. Much has to do with youth and inexperience including the coach who has been around the NJ HS scene for many years but still getting his feet wet as proved by Plainfield running the old Harlem Globetrotter and Washington General off the back play to beat St. Patricks. This will never happen again I am sure. How could you not face the ball with seconds left to allow this? Unacceptable and something that will be corrected I am sure. I really think at the end os the season St. Patrick's will be the most improved team in the state of NJ along with Hudson Catholic. The St. Patrick's job is a hard one with lots of pressure. Watch out for these guys at the end of the season and really watch out for St. Patricks next year!!!

Thats it for now so please have a wonderful evening of hoops.

2012-01-10T14:25:00.000-05:00

Good Afternoon Basketball fans:

Lots to say in the next few days. But in the meantime here is an old story done by The Rutgers Board with me when I was actually accepted there lol. Honestly I am a RU Fan as well as SHU and even SJU despite feeling they have more internal work to do than people realize. So sit back and enjoy this question and answer with me and see how far RU has come since this was done a few years back.

Talking hoops with LFBall

by On the Banks on Mar 2, 2009 7:08 AM EST

I'll admit that I'm not much of a basketball guy. So to get the perspective of someone who follows all three metro Big East programs closely, I sought out LFBall, who was kind enough to give his take on few questions about Rutgers basketball. His blog is a must-read for anyone interested in Rutgers, Seton Hall, amd St. John's basketball, or college basketball in general.

1. First, for any readers that aren't familiar with you from your blog or from Rivals, can you briefly describe your background in basketball?

Thanks for asking this. Many folks think I am just a guy writing stuff to just write. My background includes playing HS basketball on a team that went to the NYC HS semi finals where I was all Manhattan and honorable mention All City. I played Junior College basketball where I was part of the All Region Team and team captain. I also played at a small NAIA school in West Virginia called Davis and Elkins College where I was a two year starter. After my last college game I never played again! Started coaching in the NYC Rucker Tournament where I coached and worked out alot of future pros and D1 college players. I coached the Dyckman Program run by Mr. Jim Couch for over 20 years! I also had the pleasure to be the lead assistant coach at Westchester Community College (Where Jarid Famous now attends) responsible for recruitment workouts, and game coaching. Our teams went to 3 NJCAA Tournaments in Hutchinson Kansas during my time at the school under Ralph Arietta.

During my 30 plus years of basketball involvement after playing, I have worked out numerous players including no less that 15 ex-Rutgers players, as well as an equal amount of Seton Hall and SJU players. I have watched HS basketball for over 30 years and have attended games with many guys who did not coach at the time and now are D1 Head and Assistant Coaches. That would include Bobby Gonzalez and Al Skinner. In fact Al and I along with ex D1 Assistant Bernard Tomilan drove together to games as far away as Boston prior to Al getting into coaching at Marist College. I remember him making the call to Marist on our way to Boston for the old Boston Shootout.

I have watched all the greats in the past 30 years. I have seen guys go from stars to drug addicts. I have seen guys go from stars to bench players. I have seen guys go from stars to no one knowing them 5 years later. But I have also seen guys go from Unknown to the NBA. In fact I have seen guys go from underrated in HS to the NBA All Star Team.

Going to games from NYC to North Carolina I see alot. I see the good and the bad. I see AAU guys coaching and caring and HS coaches who could care less. Remember every coach will not be that concerned with the kids he coaches. For every Hurley, Boyle, Curtis March, Johhny Mathis (NYC Kennedy), Ron Neclerio, Mo Hicks, etc. there are still guys doing it just for the small stipend they receive for coaching.

Lots of what I say on my blogs which are on LFBALLONHOOPS.Blogspot.com or GameOver.com, cover alot of what I see going on and it can be controversial.

2. With Rutgers struggling once again this year, everyone is pointing towards player development and the lack of a true point guard as the biggest culprits. What's your take on that explanation, and do you have any other impressions of this season?

First of all, I have to start by saying how disappointed I am watching the decline of JR Inman, Corey Chandler, and others. I am also surprised by the record because I feel Rutgers has enough talent to have won more games in and out of conference. No way should they lose to many of those schools. The kids on Rutgers would have tore up recruiting letters from those out of conference schools they lost to without reading them. I like Binghamton and its wonderful coaching staff who are destined for bigger jobs elsewhere in the near future, but they should never have beat Rutgers at The RAC. Everyone continues to say Rutgers does not have talent. To that I say NOT TRUE. They do not have the people RU might want at this time but you can not tell me Rutgers does not have talent. And many folks in basketball circles agree with my assessment.

Unfortunately I feel many players have given up and cannot wait until the season ends. I think this is a direct result of the players feeling the coaches gave up on them early in the season. You cannot expect Sr. leadership when you cater to 2 freshmen from day 1. By the way, I feel the recruitment options of both these young men. although they seem like great kids and GOOD talents, were overrated. Both were smart enough to attend Rutgers where they knew they would play alot! Smart of them and good for them. Unfortunately the same mistake made at Seton Hall under Tommy Amaker with the Barrett, Tony El, and Griffith class where he just made it their team has happened at Rutgers which is partially responsible for this bad season. What happens next season?

Now this might seem like I am bashing the RU staff but I really am not. I used to have a decent relationship with all of those coaches. In fact I was one of Craig Carter's youth coaches and even drove him to RU for one of his visits when he was a HS player. But they have done some great things, and they have made some mistakes because they are human.

The staff at Rutgers has not gotten the support needed to help them become successful. Where is the 24 hours a day practice facility, new or improved arena, marketing dollars to bring in sell-outs for every game, and more? New AD? He seems like a football guy so who knows. But one thing for sure, FHJ will get another year and that is good and bad because it will be hard to win next season as well, and potential recruits who are impact players and program changers know this. The hardest thing to overcome for a program is having a coach who folks think might not be around long. So 1 more year would not be enough. FHJ needs a 3 year contract extension or shall I say at least 3 years more years before RU faithful will see good results.

Talent wise RU needs to hope Corey Chandler does not leave. But if RU is searching for a great PG than the writing is on the wall about who will start next season in the back court. Looks like it will be the new PG they get, and Mike Rosario. Trust me Mike is the starter at the 2 and Corey is too slight to play the 3. So this will be interesting.

Talent wise next season and wins? The starters most likely will be new PG, Rosario, Enchinique, the Big Fella, and another player to be named. Miller? Pettis? Who? Does that line-up make anyone confident? Maybe Rosario will have a Douby type year and RU will jell as a team and upset alot of people! Than again maybe Stephon Marbury will suit up for the Boston Celtics and become the Playoff MVP! Anything can happen and you do not need to be at Disney to experience it.

3. What about the long term future of the Rutgers basketball program - Fred Hill is probably going to get another year; is that the right call? Can he still turn it around, and he does he deserve that chance?

Yes he can turn it around. But he needs to do an honest self assessment of himself and his program. It will take at least 3 years for this to happen because the program changers are not attending Rutgers. Program changers often have alot of things taken care of before enrolling. Not going to go into detail but many of these kids have been spoiled since they were playing biddy basketball. The deals behind closed doors will not happen at RU at this time. Not sure what might have happened many years ago, but I doubt if RU will do special favors to get stud players who can turn things around right away. Ever seen the movie "Blue Chips?"

Fred needs something to sell. New practice facility, new arena, state of the art weight room with indoor swimming pool attached to practice facility. He also needs support from the school in regards to marketing and recruitment. I loved reading how the football coach landed in a helicopter on a HS football field. That's the type of stuff Kentucky does. North Carolina came to see Dexter Strickland in the super 8 at MSG last season 2 hours after a televised home game. It was impressive and made possible by the private chartered jet they flew into Teterboro on.
4. From reading your site and a few of your posts on Rivals in the past, you've spoken a bit about some of the seedier aspects of college basketball recruiting. What do you think of the topics discussed in the recent Gary Williams interview with the Washington Post?

I have had the pleasure of sitting in on a Gary Williams home visit with one of my ex-players who did sign with Maryland. Funny thing is we never heard from Gary again after the kid signed and the kid lived in my home. It has been rumored that Gary does not really like recruiting. Not sure about that because he was into it when he visited us.

As far as recruiting? It is a seedy business and even those who want to do it right find themselves dragged into bidding wars on occasion. It is somewhat better now, but years ago college teams hired guys in various cities to do recruiting for them, and they did anything to get players because their pay was based on a kid attending the school who hired them. In fact one well known talent guy was a recruiter for Tennessee years ago. Still remember him wearing his UT short at HS games. But yes it still is seedy and underhanded.

One of the problems is the big guys and their alums can buy autos,and homes for players, and get away with it based on who they are, while the small guys get hit for being at a summer game lol. So unfair! There are rumors about alot of seedy stuff at a number of programs, but Rutgers has not been included and I doubt if they will.

5. Is there a concern out there that Rutgers is turning into strictly a football school, and is starting to neglect hoops? In terms of facilities upgrades, what needs to happen?

Yes there is. Alot has gone into RU football while basketball is suffering. It seems all about the pig skin! Needs to change but hiring a football guy makes a person wonder.

6. Should the Big East conference split at some point in the near future?

NO! I think it is a great conference. But the bottom teams need to get better fast. It's becoming a have and have not conference. But no split.

7. Lastly, who do you like in the BE tourney in MSG this year? What about to win it all in March?

UCONN!!!!!!!!!! They have players and they have support from the entire state! Not to mention two head coaches including one who is great lol. But Pitt will show up and make it fun. I like North Carolina to win it all with a BE team as national runner up.

Thanks again to LFBall for his honesty and candor.

Saturday was a Great Day

2012-01-08T12:56:00.000-05:00

Sunday, January 8, 2012

Before starting this new post which will not be a long one, I want everyone to understand I am attempting to post more regularly this season because I have alot more to say. If you look at my blog you will see at least two posts from last week that many of you most likely missed including my NJ Player and team rankings.

I hope you have an opportunity to read my blog often and feel free to comment (I will open that portion up as soon as I can figure the thing out) on the blog or even send me an email at LFBall@aol.com. I am open to suggestions and even people strongly disagreeing with me. I will even apologize if I am convinced I am wrong. See past story on Pocono Mountain West HS Basketball as a example.

Saturday:

What a great day for local BE college basketball programs! St. Johns beats Cincinnati, Seton Hall beats Providence, and Rutgers beats UConn. What a day, what a message to area HS basketball stars, what a chance to capitalize on Saturdays success while gaining momentum for future games. Again I feel all games against each other should be sellouts or at least 14-15,000 in arena settings.

Lets start with Rutgers win. OK Coach Carr I know you read this blog and I know you understand how I feel about you despite the craziness from a few seasons back. I feel you are great for basketball and a wonderful person. Now with that said I also have to eat crow. Please give me the leg if it has not already been taken. Although I said Rutgers was heading in the right direction, I also said Rutgers wins only one huge game a year, How wrong was I based on Rutgers beating two well respected teams so far this season in both Florida and now UConn. Despite the rag a tag gym seats and sound system Rutgers has really turned the corner regardless of what happens next. And the RAC seems to be back and jumping!

St. Johns also won yesterday. Maybe Dante's catered the pre game meal or someone came in and gave a great speech. Regardless, St. Johns won a game they really needed to win. Are they back? Are they moving in the right direction? Did they wear the suits with no ties and sneakers? Whatever they did they need to duplicate for the next game on the schedule.

Seton Hall is proving so many people wrong so far this season. Come on and admit it! No one expected them to do as well as they have. They are without a doubt the best team in the NYC Tri-State area at this point of the season. But you and I know the games against Rutgers and St. Johns will be wars. I agree with many who say Seton Hall would have lost a few of the games they won this year a year ago. Again they are really doing this in an efficient manner by holding serve and winning the games they should and beating some no one expected them to beat.

Did FDU win? I do not have to look at the final score but can easily provide the answer. Ok let me see for myself. OK they lost again at home with the attendance reported at 583. So lets figure this out. 583 attendance minus 300 comps to kids groups including Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, and youth leagues leaves actual attendance at 283. They cannot be charging more than $10 a game so they took in $2830 maybe. Refs in the NEC must make 400 a game so that means we minus $1200 leaving $1630 to cover lights, heat, payroll for workers, the hoagies and sodas after the game, and more. Concession money? Most likely goes to another team working the 1 stand. What a sad situation!

Since I am so on FDU I need to say why. That program can be huge with the right support. No reason they are not Bergen County New Jersey's Team and average at least 3500 per game with more money coming in via a better concession stand deal. Donations would be up and even some potential bigger pay days including a real ESPN game or two. The school is so close to Newark NJ, NYC, and Westchester County, that in no way should they ever starve for talent. Of course the coach needs the recruitment tools necessary, the gym needs to be brought back to life, they need a real band at games, and the marketing folks need to come off vacation or the in office leave of absence they are on. Than again what do they say. Maybe get excited about the losers event against Binghamton or was that played already?

A Few Items I have thought about!

Is Jordan Theodore not one of the best point guards in America at this time?

Jordan Theodore is playing so well many cannot remember the name of the point guard he backed up when he first arrived at Seton Hall. Ok in 4 seconds who was the starting PG when Jordan Theodore arrived at The Hall?

Will Seton Hall soon be called College basketball Point Guard U?

Is it me or does Herb Pope look about 6 ft 5 on the court and very Un-Atheletic despite being a very good player? I mean he gets alot of shots blocked!

When turning the channels and watching the RU vs UConn game you almost feel you are watching Georgetown when the camera is on Andre Drummond and the other UConn bigs. The grey uniforms also help you feel this way. Plus looking at Drummond brings back Alonzo Morning memories based on talent and shot blocking.

Watched UCLA play on TV. SAD! But than again they do have players and with Kyle Anderson they all will look better in the new Pauley Pavilion.

Transfers sitting out will make Hofstra tough next season

If there was a tournament with FDU, Binghamton, St. Peters, and NJIT held would anyone care? Would anyone come if it was held in NJ? Could any of those teams beat Simeon HS from Chicago? Could any of those teams beat the champion from the NJAC or CUNY conferences? Who would win if they played each other?

Anyone think the crime rate will go down during Aquille Carr's games at the Pru in a few?

Who will win the game between Rutgers and SHU? Will the place be full?

That's it for now everyone. Enjoy the games today!

Saturday, January 7, 2012

2012-01-07T08:03:00.000-05:00

College Basketball

Ok the huge news all over the NY Tri-State Area is the verbal commitment of Aquille Carr, a 5 ft 6 Jr. from Baltimore Maryland. Please allow me to tell you what I know and have heard about this young man. This kid is a true winner who makes everyone around him better. This kid will put people in the seats. This kid is exciting. This kid competes. And finally this kid will be the backbone of the SHU Recruiting class of 2013 by attracting other kids to South Orange based on the respect many have for him.

Now many will argue that at 5 ft 6 just how much can he accomplish? Well I say check him out against very good HS competition similar to what he faced last season and this season thus far. Trust me, and this is not a knock, he is not Pokey Wiggiton (sp....sorry Pokey). This kid could be Calvin Murphy for Seton Hall without leading the nation in scoring or being a close second. Being from Baltimore is different than being a great player from Beverly Hills HS, in Beverly Hills California. Just getting to school on a daily basis often takes heart on the part of a student in certain areas of America. Playing games in a tough summer league and HS league also is different than playing summers in the Franklin Lakes Summer Rec League or even the Teaneck Summer League, which I love and adore. In other words the toughness is there!

Please understand that division 1 basketball takes serious mental and physical toughness along with skills and desire for players to be successful. This is why many kids we all know who can shoot, pass, dribble, and win skill contests are not D1 players. They often miss having the other qualities I have mentioned. Aquille Carr has everything necessary except the height that we always look for in the sport of basketball. But his huge heart and desire make up for his lack of height.

Now lets break this recruitment thing down. And honestly I am not busting any bubbles on this. Division 1 recruitment in a very complex thing. High majors such as Seton Hall, Rutgers, and St. Johns have to be on their A game all year long evaluating and recruiting players. Mid major programs such as lower A10, CAA Schools, and a few MAAC programs need to be standing close by. Low D1 schools along with many D2, D3, NAIA, and JC schools are almost wasting time recruiting players in the summer and fall. Why? Because 90 percent of kids on teams think they are high D1 players and only face reality when they have no high D1 offers in April of their senior year. Coaches from those type of schools would be better off just attending games and speaking with HS Coaches, and people in the stands who know players. I oftem smile when I see the coaching staff of local D3 schools out in force going after kids. They might as well stay home because these kids are not ready for them at this point! This brings me full circle back to Seton Hall and the recruitment of high major players by them, Rutgers, and St. Johns.

High Major recruitment starts with deciding who to realistically go after based on talent, program need, and honestly who players are associated with. I know folks are wondering what I mean by "who players are associated with?" Well, some kids are associated with people who steer players based on numerous factors. You people know what I am talking about! You can even predict where some kids will wind up based on past relationships many coaches have had with friends of the players being recruited and this has nothing to do with anything illegal. Stevie Wonder knew Michael Gilchrist was going to play for Coach Cal even if he was at FDU! Writing was on the wall very early based on friendship between The Gilchrist camp and The Coach Cal camp. Again nothing illegal here just a trust factor maybe.

Before anything is done thousands of kids are recommended and observed at camps, AAU tournaments, and in local leagues. Some kids based on AAU affiliation are recruited higher than others. Check out an AAU tournament and see which teams the Coaches are watching. On courts 1 and 2 the stronger teams are playing and on courts 3 and 4 you have the teams with the hard working non D1 kids playing in front of family and friends hoping to get a sniff from a D1 program .

After the player to be recruited is identified the next step is to get that player interested in your program.

Interest letters are sent out as early as players are identified. This can happen when a kid is in 9th grade. But there can be no official contact. Please note I said no "Official" contact. Kids reply with schedules and personal info which is stored in a very sophisticated data base often including other information gathered from talking to people. Things like parents occupation and education level, siblings names and athletic potential, influential people in the players life, Grand Parents names and closeness to the player, favorite food, girlfriends name, best friends name, and much more.

In between all of this calls are made to people coaches trust for more information on a particular player. It could be a guy like Tom Konchalski, Rob Kennedy, Steve Keller, Ed Butler, Rebel (NYC), Nate Blue. Jim Couch, or even a local low major D1 coach who might have seen the player and could provide some insight.

Using this information and schedules players are observed,

After that you need to be visible at games the player is playing both in the summer and during HS open gyms and actual games. Heck I have seen some coaches now sit right behind a teams bench.

Than there is the establishment of great, not good, great communication between an Assistant Coach, determined by actual connections to people in the players circle and community, and a player. This is done to establish a true comfort level.

Next is to involve the Head Coach more in the recruitment process if the HC has not been the lead recruiter from the start, something many of the more dynamic and younger head Coaches already do.

Next is to get them to agree to visit your campus.

Than it is back to staying visible.

Than it is to get a verbal commitment

Next is to act like you just signed the next Michael Jordan

Next is to stay on this kid as if you are re-recruiting him because any slip and bang.....he re-opens his recruitment.

For a Jr., this is a long and tedious process because many college programs are grimy and could care less about a verbal commitment. HS Coaches are even often offered jobs at a college that the Head Coach is a friend of the Coach at the school attempting to steal the player away from. Of course the next time around it is done opposite. Called keeping it in the family!

Now after re-recruiting the kid until national letter of intent day where he and his parents sign the dotted line, coaches have to re-celebrate getting the official signed document and commitment.

It is not over yet! Now the process is making sure the grades are right, in most cases at least (smile). I hear a certain school has really relaxed the admission requirements. Hope the kids recruited can keep up.

And last but not least is Coaches have to get the kid on campus and enrolled as soon as possible. Even if it's summer school, to lock in the commitment.

In the case of Aquille Carr, the recruitment process is far from over with his commitment to Seton Hall. Will it stand? In most cases it will. But knowing what I know about Baltimore politics and other colleges and universities, Seton Hall has to stay on top of this until he signs his LOI .

I end this by saying Kids like this want to make a difference. He is not even thinking about comp at his position as much as coming and doing his thing. I frown on a kid like Sina jumping up and saying he no longer will consider Seton Hall. Honestly now is the time to jump on the band wagon with a kid who will get you open shots and make you better because at this time you certainly are more of a two guard who night just grow 3 more inches based on Dads height, and you could perfectly compliment Mr.Carr. JMHO!

My thoughts about a few local teams playing basketball.

FDU is now 1 and 12 and getting worst each time out. Can you even imagine attending a game there? The atmosphere must be very interesting to say the least. I still say this has more to do with the Administration than the coaching staff. A staff with Coach Tom Green, assisted by Ron Brown and yes Greg Vatrone would have much better results because they were used to not getting support and learned to work around it. Again the NJAC is waiting for that call!

Binghamton made national headlines a few season back. Head Coach and Assistants were let go and Mark Macon was retained as head coach with very little experience. Place was selling out with close to 5000 per game years ago, had a kids corner, it was the place to be in that town. Now they are 0-14 and ready to face FDU in the losers bowl on QVC because they can sell anything to people there. I am sure they could sell out the St. Charles CYO gym for this game! Meantime the ex Coach is back at Georgetown waiting for his next opportunity. And if people pay attention they will realize what a good job he actually did. (Here comes the hits and attacks towards me lol).

Marist is 7-8 so a great guy, Chucky Martin, will hopefully get more time to get it rolling at marist as it was years ago with sell outs and exciting games.

Siena beat Fairfield last night and people were actually at the game. Amazing! Imagine if they won more often! Or could it be there is really nothing else to do in the Albany area on a Friday evening? Close to 7000 people came out! They currently average around the same number.

Iona is 12-3 and I have to just say good coaching and some luck in landing a few players they could normally not get makes them a very good team. You know the players so no sense in saying the names. OK I will say them anyway. Glover and Jones are both BE caliber players as is the PG Machado who has worked to become a great player at his position.

Columbia is 10-5 so the band and Ron Kapon, the biggest Columbia University fan in the world must be feeling mighty good!

Fairfield is 7-8 and looks to need a boast after last nights loss to Siena. Great campus and wonderful arena they use in Bridgeport. Just wonder if they would not be better off back at Alumni Hall on campus. Also why would a person leave Princeton? That's a life job with prestige!

Did I say FDU is now 1-12?

St. Peters, one of the most difficult jobs in America along with St. Francis of Brooklyn, is 3-12. John Dunn is a nice guy.......

Manhattan is 9-7 and just getting it going. I expect the next few seasons will be even better!

Fordham is 7-7. Please see Manhattan comment. But they do need a new gym!

Wagner has a hot commodity in Dan Hurley. I still remember when he was "Danny" lol. They are 11-3 and I expect some schools to make a run at Dan when the season is over. Will Bob Jr. who used to be "Bobby" take his place if he leaves or go with him?

St. Johns is 7-7 after all the fanfare about the recruiting class and world class coaching staff. Again I hope Steve Lavin recovers well and gets back on the side line because at this time that is the only excuse they can use because they do have players! I really want SJU to return to the glory days. NYC and the tri-state area needs strong BE teams to make the Garden jump again!. Hard part of the season approaching. Good Luck!

Rutgers won their annual feel great game against Florida. They are now 8-7 with some big games on tap. I do think this program is headed in the right direction but feel the need is still there for a facility face lift and not just a coat of fresh paint.

Seton Hall has been the surprise teal locally and everyone is excited. My big question is will the coaching staff still allow Sina to attend games after he said he is no longer interested in attending.

HS

Just want everyone to know I am working on some HS stuff including best player lists in NYC and NJ, best regardless of class, best coaches in tri-state area, and even best sleepers. Stay tuned. Hopefully by this week!

Thursday, January 5, 2012

2012-01-05T08:56:00.002-05:00

Basketball ie a wonderful game. It is a game that brings the best out of us as players, coaches, and even fans. On the East coast of the United States I have noticed fans are alot more into "their" teams than those on the West coast are. Look at Knick fans and than check out Laker fans. One group is a rah-rah group while the other is a wine and cheese group, which is the norm there. Well recently I have watched a few college games and see how fans can influence a game and bring out the best in players and a team in general. If you think Rutgers fans against Florida were not helpful in their upset victory, you are wrong. In fact at least once a year Rutgers fans are better than those fans at Cameron Indoor Stadium, which is just a big HS type Gym, on the Duke University campus.

This brings me to my point. Why are certain fans only interested in cheering at certain games? Where were all those Rutgers fans for the West Virginia game? Where was the lift the Rutgers team needed last night? We all know what happened last night so no need in re-visiting what was a complete let down by the home team. To lose is one thing, but to not compete in another. Now the fans did not lose this game, the RU team and players did. I am sure they were prepared, I am sure they wanted to win, I am just not sure the players had the right approach heading into the WVA game that they had facing ex teammate Mike Rosario and Florida. Honestly playing Florida was not exactly playing the top team in the country or even playing and beating a team like Duke, which is what Temple University did last night in Philly. Beating The University of Florida was great and a huge win. But beating WVA could have been more important based on it being a conference game against a school who feels the Big East is not a match for its sports program. Where were the diehard fans and supporters? Where was the mystique of the RAC, once considered one of the hardest places in the country for opposing teams to play? Rutgers has very good young talent and they and the fan base needs to continue to develop in the future and hopefully they will.

Was reading the Seton Hall Rivals board yesterday and interesting to me is the fact those fans understand all aspects of the college game. From recruitment to how the program runs, they are fully in touch. This season they also seem much more patient with the Pirates, maybe because of the great start, maybe because they fully understand what it takes to win. Or it could be they finally understand almost every player being recruited by SHU reads the rivals basketball boards along with the families of the players. Trust me I know this for a fact! In fact many read this blog as well. I just wonder if certain kids would have committed to Seton Hall if they did not sign so early based on the way they are playing thus far? Ummmmmmmmmmmmm, somthing to think about. I still say it is important for kids to play in an environment they are comfortable in and supported. For that reason I again question kids going to schools with zero fan support but a pretty campus. Heck if you want zero fan support attend FDU and be close to home. You could even have an after game hoagie and a soda there!

The more I think about it the better Hofstra and Iona look for the future. If I was a local BE school I am not sure I would play either one of them next season lol.

Has FDU won a game? Anyone attending games? Why am I asking the obvious?

HS Basketball

Let me make one thing perfectly clear. In my HARLEM NEIGHBORHOOD we often used the term "Thugged Them" as a reference to out toughed the other team. In no way was I saying the Plainfield Players were thugs on my blog. What I was doing was complimenting them on their toughness period!
And yes Plainfield was the tougher team because they really took the game from Hudson Catholic, a team with at least 5 D1 players! My apologies to those who took what I said wrong.

After a great Sunday at The Playaz New Years Jump-Off, the rest of the season seems so low key. What ever happened to the Slam Dunk at The Beach with Bobby Jacobs? What has happened to the Prime Time Shootout at The Arena in Trenton New Jersey? OK I know the Prime Time is still in existence but being played at Kean University. Problem is the field is just not that attractive again this year. They have very good teams but at one time they had The Best Teams in The Country! Similar to how the Beach-Ball Classic was years ago in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Now the teams might be in an event but they tend to play against others they are guaranteed to beat, even though every now and than a team such as Rutgers Prep gets an upset victory only top lose to some unknown school a few games later. This is what made the Playaz New Years Jump-Off so special. The great match-ups!

Top Teams This Week

1. St. Anthony's
2. St. Benedict's
3, Plainfield
4. Teaneck

5. St. Patricks
6. Gil St. Bernards
7. St. Josephs of Metuchen

8. Hudson Catholic
9. Seton Hall Prep
10.Linden

Top seniors in the state of New Jersey

Top Seniors or shall I say my super 10

1. Kyle Anderson St. Anthony's

2. Melvin Johnson St. Benedict's

3. Chris Jones - Teaneck.

4. Quinton Decosey - St. Joseph's of Metuchen

5. Blaise Mbargorba - Peddie

6. Dallas Anglin- Seton Hall Prep

7. Jimmy Hall - St. Anthony's

8. Btandon Taylor - Trenton Catholic

9. Justin Sears - Plainfield

Tie For Number 10

10. Jerome Finke - St. Anthony's

10. Sekou Harris - Plainfield

10. Charles Cook - Trenton Catholic

2 Players with Great Upside who are far from any top 10 list.
But a good JC or Prep year would make them very good

Omar Sotolongo 6 ft 7 Dwight Morrow HS Englewood, NJ

Austin Mofunanya 6 ft 6 Dwight Morrow HS Englewood, NJ

Next up

Top HS Coaches

Top College Coaches

Top Underclassmen

Top Players Regardless of Class

Top AAU Programs

Top Non Coaching Teachers of The Game

Stay tuned!!!

Wednesday, January 3, 2012

2012-01-04T10:42:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Basketball People:

It will be a cold day in early July when Seton Hall beats the defending national champs in college basketball! Well, it is not July but it sure was cold outside as a red hot Seton Hall Team beat The University of Connecticut at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ last night. Interesting how much many of us take senior leadership and talent for granted.

Lets look at expectations going into the 2011-2012 college basketball season. We were all ready for sell outs at the garden. We were ready for Rutgers to emerge as a team with great potential as opposed to that team that gets up for one or two games a year at The RAC against better opponents. We were also ready for Seton Hall to be so-so this season with almost no chance of a post season birth. In fact in the scheme of things Seton Hall looked like the least glamourous and exciting of the 3 area Big East programs.

Well, sellouts at the Garden, as in Madison Square Garden has not happened and I doubt with the exception of the Big East Tournament they will occur. More on this later! Rutgers has improved and has very good young talent and the future seems very bright. However at this time Rutgers is still that team that beats a much better team during the season at the RAC and everyone in New Brunswick and Piscataway celebrates for a night. But again the future is bright even if the Arena is not.

Back to Seton Hall. No need to provide the final score or individual statistics because they are all over the place. But what I will say is the game was FANTASTIC for the home team who played with purpose and poise. Seton Hall might just have turned the corner by beating UConn last night in front of 9000 plus fans, which is really not a great turnout though they have a curtain to make the arena a small 10,000 seat facility. I just think people are missing out on great events when Seton Hall takes the court in Newark. The UConn, St. Johns, and Rutgers games when played at The Prudential Center should have no fewer than 15,000 people in attendance.

Well 9000 plus people saw a great Pirate effort last night and Herb Pope introduced himself to Andre Drummond in a way Mr. Drummond will never forget. Does anyone actually believe Andre Drummond did not know who Herb Pope was prior to the game? Please! Not unless he lives in a facility with no Radio, TV, or Newspapers and is only allowed out right before the games he plays. Seton Hall is playing great basketball and making alot of people kick themselves for doubting they would be a good team up to this point. Again I say if a team can hold serve and not be upset by teams they should beat, the record at the end of the season should be decent and satisfying. This is what SHU has done. They have one unexpected loss and another that everyone can understand. Now the trick is to win the next few games which are extremely possible.

St. Johns on the other hand seems to be going nowhere very quickly. I know folks are going to hate me for saying this but they really should be better even with the short roster. I also will be hated for this statement as well. What is up with the grungy look with no neck ties and sneakers with suits? It is not like they are a winning streak and being superstitious! All they need to do now is not shave or bath to complete the look we see on TV. Come on where is the polish of New York City's Team? I wonder if this is what people expected when Steve Lavin was hired? I wonder if the players they have expected this? I wonder if all the guys responsible for these kids attending St. Johns expected a season like this?

I still remember St. Johns with the great teams selling out Madison Square Garden on a regular basis. St. Johns choose who would attend as opposed to Kids choosing them. The talent is certainly there, although the roster is short. I have to wonder and brace myself for interesting news during the off season. Will any of these kids leave? Will the coaches stay? Will they ever be what they were in years past. 9000 at The Garden against Louisville and they get smacked around at that. Lastly I remember many saying playing for St. Johns was like playing for the Knicks in regard to groupies if you know what I mean. I would bet the locker room area is nowhere as exciting as it was years ago.

Well, thats it for today although I do need to clarify a few things. When I discuss FDU it is not personal or against the coach. It is about the potential of an athletic program not being fully realized. Guy will never be in position to win without the tools and support necessary. Fordham beating Harvard was a great win for a good guy and wonderful academic institution. Hofstra is doing a great job recruiting and with the people sitting out will be a serious challenger for the post season next year. Hofstra also has the best and most experienced group of Assistant Coaches in the Entire United States of America. Watch out! I hear from many people that King Rice will get it done at Monmouth and they will be a top tier mid major program just as Delaware was under Mike Brey. Speaking of Delaware what is happening there? Still remember them getting 5000 fans at every game to go along with the 25000 for the D1A football games. Well, football still draws but when I see pictures of the arena it looks empty and sad! Will they make a change?

Tomorrow I will post my top NJ HS Teams again as well as a new top 10 boys basketball list for NJ.

Monday January 2, 2012 New Years Jump Off!

2012-01-02T11:54:00.001-05:00

Good Morning:

I had the pleasure of spending most of Sunday at Hackensack HS in New Jersey watching the 2012 Playaz Club "New Years Jump-off." This had to be the best 4 game event in the history of NJ high school basketball on paper. With 6 of the top 7 teams in the state competing it was bound to be a sell out, which is why I arrived as early as possible after eating with my very good friend Bobby Holford, ex D1 Coach and current head of the Urban Leadership Academy in Queens NY. By the way it was great seeing Bobby, especially since he paid for breakfast.

As I entered Hackensack HS it brought back so many great memories of my son playing there and getting his 30 and 10 a few times years ago as a player at Teaneck NJ HS. Well enough of the parental bragging, time to discuss the event and the games.

On paper all four games seemed to be outstanding! But to live up to the hype would be a very hard thing to do. But guess what? The games were even better than any of us could imagine! They were so good I already ordered tickets from Jim Salman for next years event that hopefully will be held at the same location. I also hope ESPN or some other station gets involved because this event was much better than the Springfield Ma. Hall of Fame HS event held and televised each year. In fact it was not even close.

With a sell out crowd and great concession food, this was an event that every basketball junkie would enjoy. The first game was Dwight Morrow HS of Englewood NJ vs Hackensack HS of guess where? Hackensack NJ! This was the local warm-up game for the 3 huge games that were to follow. Problem was the game was so good and entertaining we felt in no way would the next 3 games be as good. Well they were even better.

Back to the Dwight Morrow vs Hackensack game. Hackensack has a very classy coach in Aaron Taylor. This young man is in his second season and building something special that will be very good and entertaining in the future. Englewood has a new coach in Donald "Ozzie" Osbourne, one of my former players and a person I have watched develop into one of the best coaches regardless of talent in the entire state of New Jersey. Guy can just flat out coach and does it with mirrors because Dwight Morrow has always had decent talent, but very little skill development or program building ever took place there so the kids on that team really have no clue about what it takes to win and be successful. Hackensack to the contrary has always had winning programs going as far back as the days of Mel Henderson and Darryl Harris, two very good coaches. Scratch that, two Great Coaches. The game was all Dwight Morrow early and they led by 16 or 17 but Hackensack with more skilled players accustomed to winning stormed back and won the game at the end. Donald Osbourne did a superb job coaching and motivating his kids who really were not capable of finishing Hackensack off. You could feel it in the air that they would not win at the end. Hubie Brown and Mike Fratello could not have pulled it out if they coached the Dwight Morrow kids for only a half season to date. As I watched Dwight Morrow I could only dream about how good they will be in a few years with this new coach. I could only dream about what the two big guys on Dwight Morrow would be right now if he was with them last season. As far as Hackensack? Next season top 15 team in the state with some great players returning including potential top 100 National Player Rashad Figures, some great guards, and the Iona College AD's son Gene Marshall, a 6 ft 2 clean up guy supreme.

Next game was Teaneck NJ HS who has turned out more D1 players in the past 15 seasons than any other public school in the state, against Perennial national power St. Patricks. This game was even better than the first game and had to be decided in overtime after Teaneck Junior Joel Hernandez hit a game tying off balance 3 pointer. Teaneck went on to win when Hernandez hit 2 free throws with a second left in overtime. What a game this was with the talent on the court so great it made the first game, despite how good it was, look like a JHS or Freshmen game. And for those who feel St. Patricks is done? Think again! They really were a solid team with wonderful and solid guard play to go along with great up front talent in De Andre Bembry (a top 100 type junior player if not higher) from North Carolina and 6 ft 6 Jarred Nickens, a potential great player with wonderful skills who will only get better next season when he is a senior. Honestly the coaching on the St. Patricks bench was very very good with A very active and involved staff. It was also interesting seeing the usual St. Patricks fans, including "Red" who Kevin Boyle talked about in the documentary saying he was sitting there like he was court-side at an NBA game. Honestly this staff seemed better than the previous staff. JMHO

Teaneck has a great team and features an outstanding coaching staff led by Head Coach Jerome Smart. I am so proud of this program win, lose, or draw based on them being a true program. Curtis March believed in this and the program is in great hands with Coach Smart and the other coaches. Led by Chris Jones, a 6 ft 6 guard/forward who is very under recruited despite having a number of mid major D1 offers, and a true top 4 senior in the state. When speaking to Jay Gomes of NJ Hoops, he admitted to me Chris Jones might be the best available senior in area and definitely better than many on his current top 10 NJ senior list. This kid is going to great as a college sophomore. Teaneck also has Joel Hernandez who is only a junior. He reminds me so much of Ricardo Greer at the same stage with Ricardo being much more aggressive offensively, which is code for shoot first, pass second. Hernandez is a definite D1 player and will only go where his summer work ethic takes him. Like Chris, he will be under recruited initially, but with work, he like Chris could be a high major player. Next player on Teaneck is re-classified junior Neville Finch, a 6 ft 9 tough power player finally coming into his own. This is the kid who you love on Monday and dislike on Tuesday based on inconsistent and often bone headed plays such as over fouling or unnecessary elbow throwing. But when he gets it right and gets a few go to moves, WOW! I can see this kid at Kansas or somewhere similar in his future. Finally there is 5 ft 7 Shakir Lindsey, a shake and bake guard who is tough as nails and understands controlling tempo. This kid can also shoot the lights out. MAAC, CAA, NEC, where are you? What a game this was! Dunks, great passes, hard play, transition baskets, and overall great play. A true nail biter and one I wished I had on tape to play over and over again.

Next up was Hudson Catholic vs Plainfield. Two PROGRAMS as well! Great coaching on both sides but I honestly feel Hudson Catholic players talk back and rebel a bit too much for my liking. The talent and coaching is there, but they just have to Jell. Plainfield, like Teaneck , is a public HS that only draws from the actual town and does not recruit, although the top big guy attends a local charter school as opposed to actually attending Plainfield HS. Rules state a player attending a charter school without a team can play at the HS in his district or town.

Plainfield might be the hardest working teams I have ever seen. They never give up and come at you all game long. They bite and claw their way to victory every game they play. Well, the game was one of runs by both teams. Hudson Catholic has at least 4 or 5 D1 players including top 100 juniors 6 ft 7 Reggie Cameron (whose Dad and Uncle often attended games with me when my son played years ago), and 6 ft 9 Mike Young. They also have potential top 100 junior in Kayon Stewart, who depending on the day you watch is either great or just OK. Well to be honest Plainfield just out toughed Hudson Catholic for the win. They played harder, smarter, and with purpose to win the game. It did not hurt that Plainfield has some very good players also in Sekou Harris, a fully qualified guard who every NEC, and MAAC school should be all over, DiJon Allen-Jordan, a 6 ft 6 player with great atletic ability who plays at the rim, and Yale bound Justin Sears, a 6 ft 7 power player who just works his butt off and COMPETES every play. A well coached team that played the entire game on a mission to prove they were legit. And they are!

I have to keep it real about Hudson Catholic. I still believe in this team and would hate to play them because when they get it going or shall I say if they get it going, they will be GREAT. To do this Reggie Cameron needs more plays run through him, Mike Young needs touches down low, and Kayon Stewart needs to be consistent and prove he is one of the great guards in NJ. But more important is those kids need discipline and the buck starts and stops with the coaching. Nick Marininiello is a very good coach but he needs to coach and tell the others to be supportive as opposed to Co-Coaches. Kids are hearing 3 and 4 voices coming at them. These are talented kids who with discipline and smart play including understanding who their bread and butter is (Cameron and Young), could do great things this and next season.

The final score saw Plainfield edge Hudson Catholic and shall I just say I saw Plainfield THUG (which means out tough) Hudson Catholic to win the game. This made it NJ Public Schools (Teaneck and Plainfield) 2 wins and NJ private schools (St. Pats and Hudson Catholic) who recruit 2 losses.

Next was the headline game of the day. The game that made me arrive home at 12 midnight because I had to see it. St. Benedict's vs St. Anthony's. What talent, what coaching, what teams! St. Benedict's has outstanding talent in Melvin Johnson who is headed to Miami of the ACC next season. I still wonder why high level recruits sign there since no one even comes out to games. Maybe it is the weather, or Luke the Miami King Of Porn Rap, who has on occasion has invited U of M athletes to his events, is involved lol. Anyway Melvin Johnson, the former Rice HS, Gaucho and LI Lightning Dingle star is a heck of a player. Also on the St. Benedict's roster is Isaiah Briscoe a great freshmen guard rated top 5 nationally, Tyler Ennis the Canadian recruit who is a top 100 junior with poise and great skills, and a host of others including 6 ft 8 jr. Isaiah Watkins who is playing with ZERO confidence at this time. I can feel this kids potential and have watched him get it done in he past. If he gets his confidence back he could be a high major played or at the least a CAA or A10 player. By the way I was extremely impressed with the St. Benedict's coaching staff led by Mark Taylor who only knows and understands winning! Guy has won wherever he has been. Loved the way he and his Assistant often played good cop and bad cop on the entire team.

St. Anthony's also has great talent to go along with a great Hall of Fame Coach in Bob Hurley. It is hard to beat a team with great coaching and a team use to winning. Kyle Anderson is Kyle Anderson! Top 3 national player and most likely the number one respectful kid in all of basketball. No ego, great personality, unselfish. smart, good manners, respectful, and much more. Again basketball needs him as much as he needs basketball. Also on St. Anthony's is the biggest steal since Jessie James did his thing in Tomb Stone, 6 ft 8 Jimmy Hall who will attend Hofstra in the fall. How SHU, SJU, and Rutgers slept this kid I do not know. Solid and true team player. Add fully qualified Tariq Carey a highly rated transfer from Newark NJ Eastside HS who will be a high to mid major player, Jerome Frink, a 6 ft 6 solid D1 player, and Josh Brown a jr. who has already committed to Temple University to form a great nucleus to work towards another undefeated season.

The game itself was decided at the very end with St. Anthony's winning by a point. What a day, what an event! The organizers need to be commended for raising the bar regarding local HS showcase events. My only criticism is the bogus scouting services eating and being wined and dined not paying to attend and getting free food while others who actually blog and promote are not provided a soda lololololol. One guy I see all the time always has press credentials yet I have never seen a Blog or story done by him. Trust me when I tell you some bloggers get 10,000 hits on certain days. Even my blog often gets 2500 and has gotten as high as 9700 on a particular day. Oh well, I had some potato chips and a soda at 7-11 on my way home which was a 2 hour drive. But overall I give this event a 10 out of 10 star rating. Well Done Playaz Club!!!!

Sunday January 1, 2012

2012-01-01T09:47:00.000-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's a new year and everyone has set goals for the year. Some are attempting to lose weight while others are trying to gain weight. Yes, it certainly is that time of the year when many of us look to make that change we have thought about for some time.

In the world of basketball much of the goal setting has been geared to competing and winning more games. This is from grade school programs to the NBA. It all comes down to winning at the end of the day. On a side note I feel youth basketball should not be about winning as much as it should be about development through teaching. But we all know the business starts at an early age for many players because of the recruiting of kids even on the Junior High School level. Don't believe me? Allow me to tell you about a wonderful program at Mt. Carmel School off 120th Street on the east side of Harlem. Not sure about recently but a few years back this was the school that often had many of the top NYC and NJ HS Coaches in attendance at games. I guess these coaches really just wanted to see a good JHS basketball game (smile).

Yes, it remains about winning and thus far the areas Bigger universities seem to be on the verge of being better for years to come. At least a few of them seem this way. Seton Hall looks like the best area team to me thus far. Potential wise Rutgers will be right there as well. Interesting to me is the fact St. Johns, despite being short handed, has not done better. Is it only me but does others feel something is in the air about the future of the SJU program? It could be an explosion or it could be a celebration. They are prime for one or the other!

Honestly the game that excites me almost as much as the 4 games I will see today at Hackensack HS, in Hackensack NJ, is the Rutgers vs Seton Hall game for the NJ Gov. Trophy. Well, maybe it's not called the Governors trophy, but that would be a great idea. I still think an annual triple header for charity at MSG or The Prudential Center as a season kick-off for the 3 BE teams in the area against top comp from ACC, SEC, etc. would be great.

I blog alot about the three big college programs in the NY/NJ area to the point I often forget about the other D1 programs. Question is should these other programs even be D1? Some D1 programs provide individual Tutors, great pre game meals, training tables, first rate travel to and from games and more. Others do similar but not on the same scale. But than there are others such as FDU! Now you know I had to discuss them (smile) . Not sure if they still do this but I remember years ago waiting for my buddy Bobby Holford, who at the time was an FDU Assistant Mens Basketball Coach. I have been in many college locker rooms after games and have always seen a buffet laid out for players including hot and cold dishes and soft drinks. I was stunned to see one of the FDU Assistants distribute hero sandwiches and 1 can soda. I was stunned and said any kid who sees this will work his butt off to get to a school who treated the players better.

I still wonder why schools stay D1 and lose money? I wonder if there should be a D1A as they do in football? When you are only drawing 450 to a game, and even that is exaggerated, someone will eventually look at how feasible is it to continue? Well, allow me to talk briefly about a few local D1 teams and/or programs:

FDU

I have to start with the team from Hackensack NJ Notice I said team and not program! Boy could they have used Gene Marshall when they were looking for an AD. Though I am no longer even friendly with my ex summer player Greg Vetrone, I understand what he is facing and the lack of support given at FDU. By the way Gene is the AD at Iona last I heard. Ummmmmmm! Thus far FDU has lost every game played with the exception of St. Peters. They even lost to that national power NJIT. You know, that famous team that lost every game over a two year period. Was at a game and a person asked me if FDU was better or worst after firing Tom Green? Someone emailed me and asked why I do not say anything positive about FDU allow me to say The Website Is Nice!

St. Peters

This has to be the second hardest school in America to recruit kids to. By the way the most difficult is St. Francis of Brooklyn which is almost housed in office buildings in Brooklyn Heights. So far SPC is 2-11 but did beat Siena College, a traditionally good program in the MAAC. Not sure where they are going in the future or what the potential is to make it happen there unless they start going after transfers needing a last chance. Pretty good staff including a CPA who if nothing else could help put together a college wide financial plan. Just saying....... !

Monmouth

Still one of the best campuses and facilities in America for a mid major D1 program. I sure hope King Rice is the right person for this job because it really is a sleeping giant similar to what Delaware University was when Mike Brey was the Head coach there. Record is currently 3 and 10 with North Carolina up next so unless the coaching staff including King Rice, Brian Reese, and Derrick Phelps suit up, they will be 3-11 very soon. I will say when they get it going at Monmouth the support is great. New gym/arena is awesome!

NJIT

Believe it or not they are no longer the worst program or team in America. Please do not ask me to tell you who gets that honer! In fact they seem to be getting better and are currently 5 and 7 beating even FDU. Ummmmmmmm! Two things for certain is this school needs to evaluate the advantage of being in Division 1, and if a kid attends and graduates he will surely be prepared for a great future employment wise.

Rider

Sometimes I forget all about these guys. I still remember looking at the plans for the new facility years ago. I guess they still have those plans but most likely the building codes are different now. So it's back to the drawing board for both the gym and basketball team. They are currently 3 and 11 and looking uphill schedule wise. It really does not help them by playing in a HS Auxiliary Gym.

Fordham

I really like Tom Pecora alot. I also think he could have waited for a better job as opposed to making a lateral move from Hofstra to Fordham. I know the increase in salary was great but the facilities and team seem nowhere as good as he had at Hofstra. Anyway they are doing decent but the fans at Fordham are demanding after being spoiled by Digger Phelps years ago when he had Charlie Yelverton, Kenny Charles, and many others. Fordham has a guy on its staff named David Duke! Are you kidding me lol? Could you imagine this coach calling a Black or Jewish recruit with great grades in the South who follows civil rights and politics? Phone rings and the caller says hello this is David Duke! We all know who David Duke was years ago when he ran the southern KKK.

Manhattan

I still remember Steve Masiello as a HS player spending time playing with the Gauchos. He had serious style than and has the same style now. He also is smart enough to put together a great staff to get it done at Manhattan College. So far they are 9 and 5 but better yet the future remains bright for him and his entire staff. One negative is no matter how hard they try, Manhattan College needs a new facility for basketball.

Wagner College

Wagner hiring Dan Hurley proves you do not need alot of college experience to be a successful College Head Coach. Steve Lavin might get it done at St. Johns, but Mark Jackson would have been a home run.
Thus far Wagner College, the pride of Staten Island, has a 10-3 very impressive record. They have done so well that a few people are starting to network with the AD anticipating Dan Hurley getting offers from larger programs. Also a great staff at Wagner! They could be some PROGRAM based on being Staten Islands Team!

Siena College

Interesting how they drew 3000 fans when they visited Georgia Tech of the ACC and at home had around 8 or 9 thousand for a game against Albany. Wow! People in that area really support this team but the HC Mitch Buonaguro has to really get this thing moving. This could be his last HC opportunity in D1. We all know he was a GREAT ASSOCIATE HC, but the jury remains out on him with his own program. I have an ex player on this staff as well in Craig Carter, who really works hard and kids seem to love.

Iona College

Could be the best team in the entire area. I still am not big on the staff make-up but have to give props to Tim Cluess, who many say is the best coach in the area. They are 10 and 3 with some very good players. Good players plus good coaching equal success. Iona also is famous among those who really understand what the final outcome should be, for the employment rate and positions the players get upon graduation. I have never met an ex Iona player who was/is not successful.

I have left off a few such as Hofstra, Marist and Fairfield that will be covered next time. Right about now it is time to start getting ready to travel to the Playaz New Years day Jump-off which starts at 3 PM . Meeting a few friends for brunch before heading over to Hackensack HS.

Hope to see many of you at a future game!

It is really heating up!

2011-12-30T10:04:00.000-05:00

Friday, December 30, 2011

Basketball is really back all over the country though many college programs such as UCLA look to be in turmoil. Watched a recent UCLA game and the place was only 1/4 full if that. Of course they were not playing on campus but instead playing in downtown LA at the place USC use to call home before building its new arena years ago. Well, looking in from the outside the place and the program looked like a larger version of FDU, west coast version ! Sorry, this was not the program of John Wooden, Gene Bartow, or even Steve Lavin! I am sure things will be better when Pauley Pavilion is finished getting a total make-over, but for now it looks like a program heading in a down spiral direction. This would be a great time for USC, who often has been called the JV in LA, to come up to UCLA's status. But it remains so unusual seeing UCLA with its history playing in front of a few thousand if that.

On the East Coast I watched a great game between highly ranked Florida and often forgotten Rutgers. Of course Rutgers was the underdog before the game started. Problem for Florida was the game had to be played and Rutgers came to play. I am not sure what happened but it could have been the ghosts of 'The RAC" coming alive because the place was rocking to the point I am sure some players being recruited by RU were very impressed despite the building being far from state of the art. Remember Cameron Indoor Stadium on the Duke campus is really ancient and not much more than a glorified HS gym, the type they have in Indiana. But when there are butts in the seats, as they were at Rutgers last night, it looks marvelous.

The game itself was almost as impressive as Ely Carter, the former St. Anthony's and prep school star who no Big East Team recruited at the start of his senior year in HS. I still remember watching him and the big fella who went to Richmond do nothing but win. He signed with St. Bonaventure (sp) of the A10 and all of a sudden the big boys came recruiting him. After deciding to do a prep year the rest is history, although he was not the Blue Ribbon Recruit in this years Freshmen Class at RU. Now anyone who has watched this kid play will come away impressed. Last night was no different. He totally dominated the highly rated trio of Kenny Boyton, Bradley Beal, and Erving Walker, who at one time was rated the number 1 player in his class and was recruited by every HS in the tri-state area. I am sure Mr. Carter heard of Erving Walker while he was in HS. I am sure Mr. Walker now knows Mr. Carter. No predictions on this kids future from me but as I watched I sure had to put on my sun glasses to shield me from the brightness of his future.

Watched Myles Mack closely as well. Confident is an understament. I have not always been big on him as a Big East recruit but you can certainly see he chose the correct school to attend, something many HS players do not do. He also was outstanding and together with Ely Carter and the other young players this could be the start of something special at Rutgers for years to come.

Lastly on the Rutgers win last night. Why are a few people so down on Dane Miller? Is it the curse of the super frosh at RU. I have seen at least 3 others who had great freshmen years become unappreciated the next few years. Guy scored 16 points on 8 of 13 shooting and some still feel he is not a player. Are you kidding me? He makes it possible for others to shine! This young man is a player that helps you win games as you build your program.

I cannot wait to see the Seton Hall vs Rutgers game this season and in the future. I honestly think Big East Basketball in The Garden State just might become very popular again. Speaking of Seton Hall, I am surprised that a small amount of people are down on that program for losing to the Number 1 team in America on The Number One Teams Home Court. Again I say Seton Hall has held serve better than anyone else on the local college scene. They have won games they were supposed to win except the Northwestern game. The next few games are very important and games that could define the Pirate Program for the future. The name of the game is COMPETE! Thus far they have done this.

St. Johns vs UConn? I want St. Johns to be good so bad I am looking for any positive signs I see. The roster might be small on scholarship players available, but the ratings of those they have are among the best in America. Better than Rutgers, and Seton Hall. So whats the problem? Is it Steve Lavin being out? Is it a chemistry problem? Is is the lack of depth? Is it no one eats at Dante's any longer? Is it the new arena is uncomfortable? Something is wrong and it is more than Lavin being out! Again I root for St. Johns and want nothing more than 3 great area Big East Teams!

Anyone watch FDU lately? Now you know they are always on my mind. Noticed the last time I was there that they had multi colored pop up seats on one side. Looks great when no one is sitting in the chairs. Great idea Mr. AD! Than again since no one attends the games it makes the gym look ummmm colorful! Again Coach Vetrone this is not about you. After all you (FDU) want to be D1, you have to spend money to recruit and to provide an environment suitable for a winning program. Like that great basketball philosopher Wayne Morgan, former Iowa State and Long Beach State Head Coach said to me many years ago when he started out coaching at Dutchess Community College in upstate NY, "You Cannot Make Chicken Soup Out Of Chicken S... ! Good luck coach but I am sure those CUNY and NJAC openings will look alot better in the near future if they do not provide you with better support including marketing!

Tow more days before the greatest 1 day HS event in the history of Bergen County NJ takes place at Hackensack NJ High School. Yes, I am referring to the Playaz Basketball Club New Years Day Jump Off! St. Anthony's vs St. Benedict's, Plainfield vs Hudson Catholic, Teaneck vs St. Patricks, and the opening preliminary game to hold down the gym for late arriving fans, Hackensack vs Englewood.

If you love HS basketball this will be the place to be. I know people attending this event from Philly, Maryland, and even Connecticut. Hackensack HS is a pretty large facility and at one time the home of the Bergen County Jamboree championship until it became too expensive. Nice facility with plenty of parking with at least 3 games that could qualify for TV games. Hope to see many of you there. I will be the one watching every possession and coaching from the stands with hopefully Teaneck Hoops and JShuttlesworth lol.

Enjoy the day and Happy New Year to everyone!

Wednesday December 29, 2011

2011-12-29T06:54:00.000-05:00

Basketball is going full steam ahead all over America. The HS season is up and running, the College season is going strong, and even the NBA is back. Here are a few tidbits based on my observations thus far.

The NBA

Is it me or does the NBA all of a sudden seem exciting and relevant again?

Is the NY KNicks for real at 1-1?

The Knicks vs Nets game should be a good one for temporary bragging rights in the NY Metro area!

Am I the only one who thought The NJ Nets would never really move to Brooklyn? I honestly thought they were kidding and/or bluffing to get a better NJ deal.

Is Miami on a mission?

Are the LA Clippers actually a better team than the LA Lakers?

Is it not odd that two NBA teams are in the same city using the same Arena?

Denver seems to have not missed Camelo Anthony

College Basketball

OK Seton Hall lost to Syracuse at Syracuse! Seton Hall lost to the number 1 team in America! Should they be embarrassed? Should they have their heads down? I say heck no! Its one game and one game only. As I have often said the good teams beat all the teams they are supposed to beat. With the exception of Northwestern I would say mission accomplished to date. With the Big Easy season now getting into full swing Seton Hall is capable of winning all the games they are favored to win as well as a few they will play who are considered better teams. Honestly I feel they can beat West Virginia and Villanova as well as many of the others who are considered the cream of the crop. Post season? I would say yes at this point. Seems Seton Hall is headed in the right direction.

Rutgers is steady and St. Johns won the last game played against Providence College. Good and expected win for St. Johns but I still feel despite the recruiting class being highly rated, this team is not ready for prime time even if Steve Lavin returns full time today. JMHO!

FDU Report

Is it true representative from the NJCAA were on campus discussing FDU moving to the JC ranks? Is it true the President actually now understands there is a D1 team at FDU? OK I was kidding about the NJCAA meeting but I sure hope the FDU President wakes up and provides funding to re-do the gym and put more into the sports program. Sad Sad Sad when I think of the potential FDU had years ago!

HS Report

I am telling everyone who will listen that The 4 games at Hackensack HS on Sunday could be the best set of games featuring NJ teams ever put together. I feel these games will sell out even Hackensack's very large gym.

Dwight Morrow vs Hackensack Beren County Rivals = Good game
St. Patricks vs Teaneck Great Game!
Plainfield vs Hudson Catholic Great Game!
St. Benedict's vs St. Anthony's True number 1 and 2 teams in the State of NJ meeting!

In total you really have the number 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 team playing on the same day at the same location at different times on the same court. If you a a true basketball junkie like I am this is a group of games you do not want to miss. Plenty of parking and easy routes to highways. I cannot wait!!!

My HS Team and Senior Player Rankings and College Tidbits

2011-12-23T09:29:00.000-05:00

December 23, 2011

It is 2 days prior to Christmas and many people are scrambling for great deals on presents. The malls are crowded and items are flying off the shelves. Before I enter the "Shopping Zone" I need to post a few items I feel necessary when it comes to Boys HS Basketball in NJ. Later I will again do New York City and even find time to do Northeast Pennsylvania.

I have watched over the years many of the people who call themselves excellent talent scouts and evaluators of players post top 10 teams and players. Some have great credibility while others, many of whom never played or coached basketball even on the CYO level, do not and thus do a horrible job. Interesting thing is people tend to listen to these guys who in many cases are great people but when your true experience was with your HS Chess Team what do you really know about evaluating basketball talent on any level.

It is for these reasons I tend to really enjoy guys like Jay Gomes, Ed Butler out of Essex County, and Tom Konchalski, the HS basketball GURU. even though he once rated Mike O'Koran a D3 player lol. .Even the young HS kid with a service seems to do a very good job! But most of the others? Well, enough of that. Today I am putting out my list of the top Programs and Sr. Players in New Jersey.

Lets start with teams. This will change back and forth as the season progresses with upsets etc. Yes upsets happen as we all saw on Sunday at West Orange HS, but at the end of the season I expect the rankings to look like this or close to it:

Top Teams

1. Guess? OK St. Anthony's with a great coach, great player, and outstanding supporting cast
2. St. Benedict's easily with a cast of great players and a superb coach
3, Plainfield who will face Teaneck in Sectional finals in a few months
4. Teaneck who rarely gets credit despite its record over past 15 years and multiple D1 recruits
5. Hudson Catholic who could wind up at number 2 or 3 when they jell and mature
6. Gil St. Bernards with a great Player and a few very good Ivy type players. A TEAM!
7. St. Josephs of Metuchen with a top 5 national freshmen and outstanding Senior
8. Seton Hall Prep with a few good players including Dallas Anglin
9. St. Patricks based on tradition and the unknown. Players? Coaching?
10. Trenton Catholic who looked like JV as most do against St. Anthony's but with at least 3 or
4 potential D1 players and a very good 1st year coach in Mel Weldon.

Lets look at the top seniors in the state of New Jersey as of today. Not last year or even the future. Right now! Lets put the politics away and pick the top guys not on potential but on performance, approach to the game, consistency, etc. Being 6 ft 11 or 7 ft does not matter if a player does not get it done and that includes kids being recruited by Duke and Kentucky.

Top Seniors or shall I say my super 10

1. Guess? OK Kyle Anderson, Nuff said! Ok I will say more. He makes everyone a star. Again I say
I would average 10 a game at my age playing with him. Might even get a scholarship to FDU!

2. Melvin Johnson from NYC Rice HS and Miami Recruit (ready for the 3000 fans a game lol).
Rice closing sure was a blessing to The Garden State.

3. Chris Jones - Teaneck. Playing with a purpose. Remember intelligence does not equal softness
This is the type of player that could sign with a North Carolina and contribute significantly by his
Junior Year. In the A10 or BE with certain teams he gets it done from day 1.

4. Quinton Decosey - St. Joseph's of Metuchen a tremendous slasher and overall player who will
be a star at Temple one day. He even looks like a star on the court and runs and plays with a purpose.
A true favorite of mine and many others!

5. Blaise Mbargorba - Peddie Runs and blocks shots and is tenacious on the court. A real big guy
who will be a very good college player

6. Dallas Anglin - SHP OK everyone continue sleeping this kid. He only is consistent with game!
Hofstra has a wonderful player in him and he will excel in the CAA

7. Brandon Taylor - Trenton Catholic Looks lazy as heck on the court but has played well enough to
get my 7th spot. The Locks he wears might be cute to the girls but to play on my team you would
have to play like Lebron or Mike Jordan. This is my one pick that I am not 100 percent comfortable
with based on his performance Sunday. But it was against St. Anthony's !!!

8. Jerome Finke - St. Anthony's Make sure he brings Kyle Anderson a Christmas present because
as good as he is, and he is good, Kyle makes him and everyone else better.

9. Don Hoffman - Gil St. Bernards A winner playing with a great player at GSB. Plays hard all the
time and gets it done on both ends of the floor

9. Justin Sears - Plainfield Ivy bound player who many will work for one day most likely. But
honestly this kid can play. Not often a kid attending a Charter School plays and stars at the 4th
best HS in the state, a school he does not even attend.

10. Charles Cook - Trenton Catholic and James Madison commit is a player who brings it all the time!
Along with the super freshmen and hopefully Brandon Taylor Trenton catholic under former
basketball great Mel Weldon, will become the team they are capable of being!

Honorable Mention? No such thing!!! Work hard and get on this real list!!!!

Local College Tid Bits

Iona is back

Hofstra is heading in the right direction

Siena College actually draws more people than many Big east Teams for home games

FDU ......... Is FDU!

Tom Green the former FDU coach is head coach of CCNY, a D3 CUNY conference school in NY. Maybe he will meet up with FDU in the near future when FDU goes D3. Right now CCNY has the better gym and program.

I would love to see a game between NJ Tech and FDU as the prelim to a game between Bergen Catholic and Paramus Catholic at Bergen Catholic, I guarantee the place would be full!

Coaches all over the country are sleeping very good and talented players in NE Pennsylvania

St. Johns continues to make me wonder if this whole thing is a dream?

Rutgers had the RAC re-done with sound system and seating? oops another dream!

Seton Hall is actually 10 and 1? Hey it is not a dream!

Is Monmouth doing better under a King?

Whats up with the new facility at Rider? Or did they forget?

St. Peters, oh St. Peters, I sure hope you do well. Seems you are on the right track!

Fordham , calling Fordham!!! Where is Fordham? Have not seen anything on them! Even heard they played a game at the Garden. Was it a secret? Do they have a SID over in the Bronx?

Is it only me or do many in North Jersey feel William Patterson and Ramapo are better programs than you know who? OK FDU again!

Did I tell you I think Tom Green was treated unfairly? Did I tell you I think he is a heck of a coach?

Honestly my feeling about FDU has nothing to do with the coaching staff including Greg Vetrone who played for me when he was in College during the summers. In fact I think he is doing super stuff considering he is at a school who couldn't care less. I heard the current president does not even know they are a D1 program and the AD feels it is better that way. I guess it is a safe job for him. For some reason I thought I heard the AD would be heading to a huge West Coast University by now. Ummmmmmmmmm! So Greg please do not take this stuff personal! We all know you are doing the best you can at a D1 school with a D4 budget.

Well, again I say if you are out and about please take time to get to a game and as always enjoy the hoops!

HS Stuff and a tid bit of College

2011-12-22T08:49:00.000-05:00

HS Recruiting

It's interesting how many of the kids being recruited know all about the various message boards on the Rival network. They seem to read those boards more than you can imagine. Some even become upset with a school based on what might be said by a poster with no idea of what they are talking about. Plus many fail to realize it is their thought and not reflective of the coaching staff at a particular school nor the majority of that schools fans.

However when a featured article fails to mention the players from one of the 6 best HS Program in New Jersey along with St. Anthony's, St, Benedict's, Hudson Catholic, Gil St. Bernard and Plainfield, somthing seems wrong. Not only is it a slap on a program that has won consistently for many years, it is a serious blunder based on players developing now and in the future. As I always say it is better to be safe than sorry. Also I love saying never burn bridges!

This is the case that recently happened when the Teaneck HS Players received no respect on a local NJ Universities fan page. What made things even more interesting is Teaneck beat a very good team with two high level recruits including 6 ft 9 frosh (he was at least 2 inches bigger than Neville Fincher when he stood straight up, something many young kids rarely do on or off the court) Karl Towns Jr. .and a smooth and explosive wing player in Quentin Decosey. I agree that both are special and Towns Jr. is potentially top 5 nationally in his class now as well as when he is a senior. But to not even discuss the Teaneck players after they won the game?

Teaneck has 3 legit D1 players and a possible 4th in Shaker Lindsey. If people do not think Chris Jones is a serious recruit they will miss out on a tremendous talent and even better person. He totally outplayed Decosey, who I love as a player), scoring 25 points and getting 10 boards. He will be a 6 ft 6 guard in college. In fact if the local A10 and BE Schools do not get all over him I am sure the good ACC and SEC, along with A10 programs will join the chase as his season progresses. This kid is the real deal! Neville Fincher is a 6 ft 8 or 6 ft 9 tough guy learning to play the game correctly. Everyone who watches understands he will be a better college player than HS player. Tough and extremely athletic! Lastly Juel Hernandez is a kid everyone continues to watch. I have received at least 6 calls over the last year from very large programs asking me my thoughts on him. Not sure of his level in D1 basketball but I do think with maturity this 16 year old kid in his CORRECT GRADE will be very good. He is as close to Ricardo Greer the former Pitt player as you will find. Again just a matter of confidence and maturity for him to play high level D1 basketball.

With a Coach like Jerome Smart, a person who has coached many great HS players as a HS Coach and as a top AAU Coach, you know these young men will be prepared for the college level. It also will not hurt them that he knows at least one coach from almost every college on the east coast.

Now back to Chris Jones. Based on him being an extremely intelligent kid with super supportive parents, just like Fincher and Hernandez, he might just decide to sign at a level below his ability in order to play huge minutes right away. Maybe Siena will steal him? Maybe Rhode Island? Could Hofstra snatch him up? Maybe so but again this kid is a high level talent who I have heard is the most improved HS player in the State of NJ and rated in the top 5 or so players in the state.

St. Benedict's

St. Benedict's is back and a formable opponent for St. Anthony's at the New Years Day Jump Off at Hackensack HS. I am excited about this game and all the others because I have not seen these type of match ups in NJ prior to the post season in many years.

St. Anthony's vs St. Benedict's
Teaneck vs St. Patricks
Plainfield vs Hudson Catholic
Englewood vs Hackensack

All I can say is this must be a fluke or something that happened by mistake. Or maybe I am dreaming? 6 of the top HS Programs in NJ the same day and another game that is a rivalry is more than you can ask for. Whats the cost $20? I doubt that much but if it was it sure would be worth it. On a side note I look forward to watching my guy Donald Osbourne, one of the top coaches in the entire tri-state area reshape a program that should be a top 15 program in the state yearly in Englewood HS. I am Also excited watching Aaron Taylor resurrect a once great and proud program at Hackensack HS. I still remember him as a humble but tough player with alot of class 15 or so years ago.

Back to St. Benedict's. The current coach at St. Benedict's is OUTSDTANDING! I have watched him do nothing but win with well coached teams with talent he developed. People forget he was the coach at St. Joes of Central Jersey, the team that now has the top rated Freshmen in the state. This team has at least 4 or 5 potential high major prospects including 2 from our neighbors in Canada.

I am so excited about watching the St. Anthony vs St. Benedict's game I might arrive at 7 AM that Sunday!

Lets talk Hudson Catholic

My first question to everyone is where was Hudson Catholic the past 8 or 10 years? In fact where were they the past 25 years? In fact where were they the past 40 years when it came to the boys basketball program? In the same breath let me ask where was Bloomfield Tech many years ago? Where Is Bloomfield Tech now? All I will say is the person who made Bloomfield Tech a PROGRAM and the person who has made HUDSON CATHOLIC a legit regional if not national name is the same person! His name is Nick Mariniello and he learned from some of the best! Still remember him as an Assistant at Marist HS when they were a NJ power under Mike Leonardo.

Now why am I writing about this program and coach after they were upset by a less talented team in Rutgers Prep? I write because upsets happen everyday in sports. Also I write to say Rutgers Prep is a very good TEAM. But to crucify Hudson Catholic for an upset loss is 100 percent wrong. These are young men not NBA players going against HS players. Hudson Catholic has underclassman as stars and as starters. Sleep on this team if you wish. I honestly think as they mature as a team they could be a hard out. I also feel this season is just a warm up for them because they or St. Benedict's will be the top team in NJ next season hands down. Yes, better than Gil St. Bernard, and better that St. Anthony's, although we all know Bob Hurley has the ability to mold an average team into a great team.

So all this fire the coach stuff needs to be laughed at! In fact the Coach at Hudson Catholic will never have a hard time getting a coaching job. After all, he has a great track record coaching and HELPING KIDS! Plus he could always be an Actor or model lololol. Had to throw that in (smile).

Seton Hall Wins Again

Folks can think what they wish but to win at Dayton is huge based on the tremendous support they receive year after year after year. This is a game that many teams would lose. In fact it is a game SHU might have lost in the past. Like I always say, winning can become a habit! Next up Longwood and I certainly hope SHU does not enter the contest over confident. A win would mean going into the Syracuse game SHU would be 11 and 1 with momentum! Just wish the game was in Newark!

Rutgers

NJ Tech is up next and that should be a win and warm-up for the Florida game and a homecoming for ex RU Standout Mike Rosario. It would be a great thing if Rutgers wins and recruits in the area can see that leaving the area is not a priority to be respected and successful. Well, I cannot wait to get feedback on this game including the reception Mike Rosario receives. I honestly hope and feel he gets a standing ovation. That would be classy and a good message to potential recruits.

St. Johns

St. Johns wins and its a great thing. But to beat Pan Am Airlines or is it Texas Pan American, is a building block but nothing to break out the champagne over. Providence is a huge game and luckily a home game for the Red Storm. Than it is UConn away! Should be interesting!

Until next time enjoy the hoops!

The Start of A new Season

2011-12-20T08:57:00.002-05:00

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

It is wonderful writing a Blog that again will be very expressive with my thoughts and insight about the state of basketball on the East Coast especially New York, New Jersey, and parts of Pennsylvania.

Those who know me understand I will not pull any punches but will be always be fair and honest in my posting. Do grimy stuff and I see it, I might just talk about it. Mistreat a signed recruit? I will talk about it! Not really coach your team? I might just say a thing or two. Under perform? That would be something to talk about.

I also will talk about the games and the potential of many of the players I watch. One thing I will not do much of is report a score of a recently played game. But I will talk about performances of the players and coaches as well as what happened in the gym before the game, during the game, and especially after the game. All the stuff folks rarely post about. Like who was talking to who, who came with who, who seemed to be upset, deals in the works, and much more.

Hopefully you will enjoy the blog more this time around than in the past. Again this is done based on my love of the game and not to get a contract with the NY Daily News or The Newark Star Ledger. So if there is a mistake or two or three, or a thousand please do not crucify me. Just sit back read and enjoy what I AM ATTEMPTING TO SAY! You might just enjoy it!

So lets get started right now!

College Basketball

We are off and running! During the pre season there was plenty of hype about the coaches and recruits at St. Johns and Rutgers. It was almost as if Seton Hall had down graded to the Patriot League based on the local media coverage given the Pirates. It was all about the great recruiting classes at both St. Johns and Rutgers. Before anyone comes at me I will say I was included in the behavior I described. I also thought St. Johns was ready to pack Madison Square Garden for home games played there. In fact I thought St. Johns was back and again a national program contending for a NCAA bid.

Well, it is December of year 2 of the current coaching staff and I do have to ask if they seem any better than the last year of Norm Roberts regime? Seriously! And I do understand Steve Lavin has been under the weather with post surgery illness etc. and for that they do get a pass. But I do remember everyone saying this Mike Dunlap is the greatest Assistant Coach on the planet! The staff was supposed to be hand picked and perfect for the resurrection of the St. Johns basketball program.

They are certainly running but to where? Players are transferring, recruits are de-committing, and many others are not expressing as much of an interest in St. Johns as they did a year ago. Could it be St. Johns is no longer the sexy choice among the HS elite? Well, time will tell what happens from this point on but are they are pleased thus far in year 2? Can turn it around and become a force with added recruits including one this week? Stay tuned!

Lets look at Rutgers! Ok lets start with the building they call The RAC. It is the same and so are the turnouts for games it seems. Again I need to ask does anyone other than the coaches there really care? Do they not notice the ragged chairs fans pay to sit in? Do they not even notice the building would be great as is if they just re-do the seating and sound system while adding a practice facility? Ok I have to admit I have not been to a Rutgers game in a very long time. But looking in from the outside I do feel they have a great coach in Mike Rice, have recruited well in NY, NJ, and even in Washington DC. Are they playing hard? I hear they are and really could be very good in the near future. Maybe Jim Carr (Thank God The Old Jim Carr is back!), one of the GREAT Guys again in college basketball will invite me to a game. By the way is there a discount for AARP members?

Now lets look at Seton Hall University. Thus far they are 9 and 1 heading into a difficult part of their season. Some would argue the teams they have beaten are not exactly title contenders. And that would be a very stupid statement because they have been consistent and have won most of the games they had to win. I always have thought that the very good teams do not lose to teams not on their level. So to be 9 and 1 is what I call holding serve and jump starting what could be a nice season with a post season birth at the end. I also feel the early wins are what seasons are built on. The Seton Hall team understands winning.

What makes all this come together is how both St. Johns and Rutgers, teams often compared to Seton Hall, are having down seasons thus far although there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel for both of them as well. No one was even putting SHU in the same category as SJU and RU in terms of being attractive programs. Silly them! Silly me! We all became caught up in the glamor and glitz of the recruiting classes of both RU and SJU. We got caught up in the new super coaches in Steve Lavin and Mike Rice and forgot that COACH WILLARD could actually coach and had learned from the best including his dad Ralph, and his mentor Slick Rick Pitino. Well, maybe slick is not the correct term because he sure has not done much slick stuff lately and really is a terrific coach and teacher who understands program building and winning.

So right now the best team in the entire NYC Tri-State area is The Pirates of Seton Hall University. The second best? Could easily be Iona which has assembled a great group of players. And with a coach who could be the best actual coach in the tri-state area when it comes to X and Os, they are destined to have a very good season.

Not far behind is Hofstra with what could be the best coaching staff in the area. I am watching and noticing how they are inn the homes of many recruits who would never even think Hofstra normally. But put 3 well respected ex D1 Assistants together who have Big East experience and you are looking at a great staff for a mid major program.

Tom Green Emerges

I saw Tom green at the Hoop Group Tipoff event at West Orange HS on Sunday. Interesting to find out he is the new coach at D3 City College of NY. I applaud CCNY for being smart enough to hire Tom Green. But at the same time I frown on all the local D1 schools who did not snatch him up as an Associate Head Coach etc. This guy is a GREAT PERSON who was treated very bad at FDU after putting them on the map. Well, what goes around comes around and FDU is nothing more than a glorified JC or D4 school playing a D1 schedule in a horrible building with an administration who couldn't care less. Sad!!! They even messed up what was a nice gym by removing end court bleachers that gave the gym a small arena feel.

If the right AD ever gets there and they do it the right way by re-doing the inside seating etc.? Watch out! I still feel they are a sleeping giant. Problem is they are sleeping like a bear in the winter. And we all know that bears hibernate for a long time. Make up your mind FDU. Is it to be respected D1 basketball or will it be D3 games against FDU Madison, and others because as it stands now I am not sure you could beat the Ramapo's, and William Paterson's.

Hoop Group Tipoff at West Orange HS

Drove down to the Hoop Group Tip-Off at West Orange HS on Sunday expecting to see some great games and even better talent. Honestly I was not disappointed! I would bet neither was Rick Pitino, Mike Rice, Steve Demeo of Hofstra, Ron Brown of Binghamton, Danny Hurley (My Grandsons future coach), Phil Martelli (sp) of St. Joes, and many others.

Let me start by saying Martelli had an Interesting personality to say the least. Maybe it's a Philly thing, but guy was brushing off folks all over the place like he was Pitino or Calipari, which he is not. I always spoke highly of this guy based on watching him recruit and even talking to him. But watching him Sunday made me realize he is full of himself in the worst way. How does he even get players? Wow!!! By the way all the other coaches I saw were engaging to kids and fans alike and that included Pitino who did not even sit where the other coaches sat. He sat in the area where the basketball fans were and chatted and waved at people looking to say hello or get an autograph.

The gym was nice but very dark. Maybe I am just use to the gyms in the Pocono Mountains. Huge gyms better than most colleges. All they need there are better teams although Pocono Mountain West and Pocono Mountain East, could compete with most public schools and are indeed HS Programs as opposed to HS Teams.

Back to the actual event. I missed the first game and honestly had no idea who even played. Funny thing is no one around me, even though they had watched, could tell me anything. So lets start with the second game which was won by Rutgers Prep. Yes, Rutgers Prep upset NJ HS Power Hudson Catholic despite being down close to 20 points in the first half. For a team with 4 D1 players Hudson Catholic sure did not look like a NJ Power. When you have players being recruited by The Big East, ACC, and A10, how do you lose to a school with maybe one player being looked at by an Ivy or Patriot school? Let me tell you how. By playing as a team to win games as opposed to playing for exposure and to be recruited to colleges and universities. Rutgers Prep was a true team and seemed to really get along. They were a unit and did not rest on past achievements and press clippings. Rutgers prep used the St. Anthony's TEAM PLAY MODEL! Hudson Catholic also lost because maybe Reggie Cameron and Mike Young did not make themselves available for the ball nor were the guards looking to get them involved. I am sure the Coach will get them back on track.

Watched a great game between Teaneck, a traditional but often overlooked power, against St. Josephs of Central Jersey. It was a pleasure watching one of the top freshmen in AMERICA play. I will be able to tell people many years from now that I watched Karl Towns Jr play his freshmen year (Thanks SPK). At 6 ft 9, this young man is special. Skilled, coordinated, can shoot the 3, and passes like a young Larry Bird. After watching him play, I am positive he has watched many games with his Dad and fully understands things most seniors do not. By seniors I am talking about College Seniors. Again what a pleasure! His team also had a tremendous wing player headed to Temple in 6 ft 5 Quinton Decosey. Smooth as silk, and oozing with potential. I honestly feel this kid will be an amazing College player in the A10.

Teaneck, which has a great feeder system run in the Richard Rodda Center with two state of the art courts and over 500 young participants, is good year after year after year. Not a community you would expect to have such good teams and potential D1 players, but they always have both going all the way back to the days of Tony Campbell. This year is no different with possibly 4 D 1 talented players in Chris Jones, Neville Flincher, Juel Hernandez, and Shakir Lindsey if he continues to develop leadership skills. Chris Jones is a star although he does not realize it. A hard worker and great performer to say the least. How this guy does not have RU and SHU all over him I will never understand, Well, after scoring 25 and getting 10 boards I am sure Mike Rice will be calling Coach Jerome Smart if he has not already done so. Neville Flincher, when using his head right, is pretty good. His future is bright when he brings his A game and has his thinking cap on. But when he and Karl Towns Jr. were jawing back and forth, with Karl Jr. never backing down, I was concerned that Neville would do something to open up a spot on the bench for him.

Teaneck won the game and the war. Chris Jones outplayed everyone including Quinton Decosey to get MVP. But it was a Juel Hernandez shot that was the game changer. Up to that point he did very little. But good players always come through in the end. Lastly Shakir Lindsey did a great job running the team and with more leadership skills to go along with his natural ability at 5 ft something, he could be very good. It also does not hurt to have a very good coaching staff including Jerome Smart who gets the best out of his players.

Next up was St. Anthony;s vs Trenton Catholic. I love the St. Anthony team first approach. They actually play great team basketball and work hard on defense. Do not believe me? Ask Trenton Catholic, a team that won big the game before this one with Bob Hurley in the gym scouting. Can you imagine that? A Hall of Famer driving to Trenton NJ to scout a future HS opponent. Who says he is not serious about his program and winning? I sure hope he stays for at least 20 more years. I really like Josh Brown Jr. a Jr. who has committed to Temple, Jimmy Hall, Jerome Fink, and Tyrek Carey. These kids could win it all again! But I LOVE Kyle Anderson Jr. who always plays team ball and makes all the others I have mentioned better!

On Trenton Catholic the highlight was Malachi Richardson, a 6 ft 4 Freshmen who is destined for greatness. I wonder if he will be at Trenton Catholic 3 years from now. Also standing out was Charles Cook, who has committed to James Madison University of the CAA. A slight disappointment was Penn State recruit Brandon Taylor. Brandon is a 6 ft 7 or 6 ft 8 forward with a body and lots of hair. If you ask me too much! I always say you have to play like Lebron or Mike to play on my team with long braids or Locks! Well, he sure was a non factor, but St. Anthony's does that to teams. Only way Trenton Catholic could have played better is if the Coach, Mel Weldon suited up and played. For those who do not remember him, he was a standout many years ago in Trenton and was National JC Player of the Year when Mercer Community College won the National Tournament under Howie Landa in Hutchinson Kansas.

Final game was a blowout from the start. St. Benedicts is back and better than ever with two Canadian imports in Tyler Innis, and Isaiah watkins, both D 1 talents, to go with Rice HS of NYC transfer Melvin Johnson who has committed to Miami of the ACC. Add to that Isaiah Brisco, a Nate Blue (Real Scout) protégée who could be on the same level as Karl Towns jr. as a top 5 or 10 national freshmen player, and a host of others and you have a bonafide HS power team. Roselle Catholic, who from what I understand, has the best basketball environment in North Jersey, was without several key players sitting out 30 days after transferring into the school.

Well, all this makes the Playez Basketball Club New Years Jump Off very interesting and exciting. The games taking place at Hackensack HS has a feature game of St. Anthony's vs St. Benedict's to go along with Teaneck vs St. Patricks, and Plainfield vs Hudson Catholic. Honestly this event is so good the games could have taken place at FDU. Oops, I forgot they made the gym smaller and not attractive. My bad!

Until next time, enjoy the games!!!!

Saturday Stuff!

2011-10-22T11:26:00.000-04:00

Saturday October22, 2011

NBA Lockout

No matter how hard I attempt to evaluate the current state on the NBA can I find reason to side with the players union. This is the most unreasonable and selfish thing I have ever seen any group associated with labor do. Np matter how many arena workers are taken to dinner, how many charity games take place, how many millionaire players donate to charity in the next few days, this is wrong, greedy, and selfish.

I wonder what type of money would these players earn if the NBA closes its doors forever. What would 80 percent do. Maybe go to Europe for $150,000 a season with a few players earning $5,000,000 a year. But that is a far cry from they $20,000,000 type contracts most receive. Could you even imagine Michael Jordan forfeiting his last mega contract and losing endorsement money to venture abroad to earn $10,000,000 as opposed to the $35,000,000 he often earned in a season?

Well, even those who could demand 5 to 10 million a season abroad is a very small percentage of the current players. In fact most would be looking at $1,000,000 type contracts with housing, meals, and cars thrown in. Maybe the bigger stars would receive Mercedes and the lessor stars would receive Honda's. And to be honest even the amount they could earn abroad is way above the national norm of what folks earn here in the greatest country in the world.

How in heavens name can they even expect to earn a higher percentage of the revenue? Regardless of whether NBA Commissioner David Stern, who I do agree is a true arrogant egotistical man behind the phony smile and calm type voice according to what I have heard, is lying or not about the many teams who actually lost money in the past few seasons. I would not care if every team has turned a serious profit. They are after all in business to make money or they would just be a AAU team. Oops I forgot AAU Guys are now making decent money as well. More on this another time!

What would these guys make if they could not play basketball? Or if they did not play in the NBA? Players with statistics such as 10 points and 7 rebounds a game are earning $10,000,000 per season! Guys averaging 7 points and 3 assists are millionaires! And they feel they are under paid?

Well, in this economy, one that we have seen national unemployment go up and down with people losing homes, families, careers, and health benefits, it is hard to be sympathetic to the NBA Players Union!

On another note Mr. David Stern. Have you forgotten you are from Teaneck, NJ and attended Teaneck HS? You must have since they cannot get you to even stop in every 5 years to encourage kids and faculty. Would not hurt if you even took some of your mega bucks and gave a few thousand to the HS yearly to help keep the freshmen sports programs up and running. Similar to what great guys like Mike Fratello does at Hackensack, NJ HS!

Big East Expansion

OK who is actually running the Big East? Daffy Duck with Elmer Fudd assisting? Are they dumb or just dumber? Looking at schools out of the area where the Big East has ties is just dumb and strange as evidenced by the TCU move without participating. Why not go after the University of Alaska? Maybe the Red Army National Team? Dumb stuff to say the least! The way they are going seems to be a quick fix and nothing else. They are considering weak teams for the football side and strange teams for the basketball side who really would be using the BE as a spring board to a better fit conference with natural rivalries and better travel options. Please see TCU as a reference. Missouri? Are you kidding me? Kansas? Why would they? The bottom line is the BE can remain strong based on Basketball and the current schools football programs. Here is my salutation.

For basketball bring in the following teams and only these teams. Xavier (strong Program and they will not jump in 3 years), Temple (natural choice and they have football), Dayton (Outstanding Fans and program), And Duquesne (Improving basketball programs in The Pitt market). These are the teams that are needed. For football they can hold serve just as things are. Even if they lose West Virginia. UConn's programs is getting better yearly. Rutgers is doing fine. I honestly do not even see the big loss in those who left if the BE gets the teams mentioned.

Lastly on this subject. Notre Dame is not really needed, especially since they maintain independence in Football. The days of having some teams in the BE and some in other conferences based on team sport is only an opportunity to fail in waiting. You do not see the Big 10, ACC, SEC, etc. doing such foolish stuff. All Teams in, or all teams out! I honestly would even ask Notre Dame to exit if the FB program does not become a part of the conference. Percentages could change but they need to be part of the BE in football. And honestly as bad as they have been in recent years they need to really think about this.

I know football brings in huge revenue but when mentioning the BE the next word out of 95% of people's mouths is basketball! Get those teams mentioned and forget about partial participants in football. Especially weak programs such as Army and Navy! If that's the case why not just add Manhattan or Monmouth for basketball? Same thing!

Four Big HS Events

Went to IS8 last week and the place was crowded and jumping. Nice to see so many old friends and fellow basketball lovers. Unfortunately it was the same old thing with folks yelling at Refs from the sidelines, and Parents coaching from the stands. Hey wait a minute that was me years ago (smile). Also saw Coaches on one knee thinking they would get discovered and offered jobs and little un-atheletic guys walking in with stud players and acting as advisors while they really are no more than exploiting adults looking for ego satisfaction or a payday. Sickening!!!!!! I often wonder how certain folks act as if they are so important that they can act a certain way. More on this at another time. Trust me it is coming!!!! Again it is coming!!! And it sure will not be popular!

Today is the semi finals at IS8. Might go depending on what I get done this AM. Later at Baruch I need to be at The Jim Couch Event. I LOVE JIM COUCH and SEAN COUCH and all the other wonderful volunteers with the Jim Couch Foundation. My son and I owe them so much. As I have told my son on a number of occasions. After his next big movie or TV job he needs to send them a CHECK! Also needs to send a check to TEANECK HS! The Jim Couch event gates place at Baruch College in Manhattan today and tomorrow.

Later tonight is an All Star Game between NJ and NYC at Bishop Loughlin HS in the Clinton Hills section of Brooklyn NY. Both a girls and boys game will take place to benefit a scholarship fund established by Kamani Young in honor of his Wife, who passed away a few years back. This game will be exceptional with the best players regardless of class playing. This means there will be stud players across the board. I guess that means the little un-atheletic advisors will be in attendance as well.

Sunday is a huge day at Baruch College with some of the best young players in the country flying in and playing in an undergraduate All-Star classic as part of the Jim Couch Foundation weekend at Baruch College. They have flown in players from all over the country and they will compete tomorrow in exciting games. You really do not want to miss this!

Well, thats about it for now. Watch out for my next post. It might just come sooner than you realize. And in the future I have some interesting observations to share with you. Even if I do not mention names you will know who I am referring to. Stay tuned!

Thank God For HS and College Basketball

2011-10-10T10:42:00.000-04:00

Good day to all my fellow basketball fans and the many basketball junkies who have followed basketball in NY, NJ, Pa., and Connecticut over the years. A special good day to our areas wonderful and rich in tradition HS and college basketball programs for always providing us with something to cheer for and in a few cases something to cheer against.

Well, I for one sure hope the NBA Players come to their senses over the contract issues that continues keeping the professional season from taking place. Come on players every one of you are making more money than 95 percent of the Americans who pay outrageous prices to watch you perform. Be real if you can and understand you could be working at The Community Center for $9.00 an Hour, or teaching School for $37,000 a year to start, or even practicing Law for around $130,000 a year if you have it going on. All three are good and needed careers but instead you are making millions yearly and more with endorsements. Even guys averaging 6 points a game and playing less than half a game, while playing a game you played at one time for the fun of the game are millionaires.

I often wonder what many of these players would do if there was no basketball? I honestly think at least half of the current professional players might just be playing in adult leagues and have careers we would not be saluting as we do the careers I mentioned above. I mean guys averaging 11 points and 6 rebounds are getting $35,000,000 contracts. Are you kidding me!

So please with the BS about the owners. These owners, many of whom might just be grimy, still put up and invested money in a product called NBA basketball and deserve to make money on their investment.

Eddie Griffin Challenge

Loved traveling the 90 miles from my home to The Haverford School which was right down the road from Villanova University. And what a wonderful area this is and it's no wonder they call it the Main-Line. It is right on the way to Philadelphia and if you travel Lancaster Avenue you are almost right at St. Josephs University.

Tree lined streets with beautiful homes sitting back, wonderful restaurants, and gas stations with the highest prices in 100 miles which also told me I was in the high rent district. I would bet any young kid playing in the game somehow noticed Villanova University as they drove by.

The Haverford School is one of those prestigious HS prep schools located in the Philadelphia Area. Located down the street from Haverford College, a great school and one that attracts a certain type of student, this campus was gorgeous. And the facilities were traditional prep school similar to the New England traditional schools such as Choate, Berkshire, and the others as well as NJ Prep schools such as Blair Academy, Pennington, Hun, etc. Not sure if they had dorms but the school itself was attractive. Oddly only one single player was listed on the rosters of any of the three games from The Haverford School. Did not get to watch EricAnderson play but hopefully he did a great job and represented well.

Great Job by Jim Salmon and his wonderful team. Always classy, always a great presentation, and always worth every dollar spent. I also want to thank Jim for stopping the guy coaching the NJ Juniors from continuously dribbling a basketball during the game like he was in the park waiting for next. Jim went over and took the ball only to have the guy now start making phone calls while coaching the team. Grass roots basketball at its best lol.

Also great to see Kyrie Irving, Wayne Ellington, and JR Smith coaching the teams. In fact Kyrie was really into it even debating the ref a bit over calls. One quick note was the fact all 3 PROFESSIONAL BASKETBALL PLAYERS did not look like the players of past who would look like a star when they came into the building. They looked and dressed just like young guys from all over America with the capri type pants (JT), jeans down on butt just a bit (Wayne), and erg Jeans (Kyrie). I guess I am just getting older!

The games very good with NJ winning the Junior Game while Philly won both the Sophomore and Senior games convincingly. Did not get to see much of the Sophomore game but what I did see was Quadri Moore, a 6 ft 9 true big man with a great feel for the game and skills from Linden HS. Also noticed Rashad Figures from Hackensack HS do his thing although he has never met a shot he did not like. He could be called never going to give it up Figures of even It Figures he was not giving it up! And he sure did not unless he could not get a shot off.

The Junior game was good and full of Talent as New Jersey showed it has a wonderful Jr. Class. Say what you wish about NYC and Pa. Yes, very good players but NJ HS basketball will be great in 2012-2013. Philly seemed to have a very weak Jr. Class but it just might have been NJ was just that much better. Reggie Cameron is a true big-time player and smooth as silk. Shoots, runs, competes, and wins! His teammate this season Mike "Where Did he Come From" Young could be a big-time stud player so good they might clone him to make an army. He really is a skilled big guy. I could have sworn prior to him being at St. Benedict's he was from Pittsburg. Fellow Hudson Catholic player Kavon Stewart is a very fast and quick point guard you will either love or hate depending on if your son is playing with him or not. He has talent and skills but seems to be on a mission to get his as the kids say and not see the court as well as he could if he tried harder. Also holds the ball far too long. He needs to look at tapes of Nate Archibald as Kyrie Irving did in his youth I am sure. But the kid has talent. His head will determine if he is a BE or A10 recruit of a MAAC or NEC recruit.

Of course Jaren Sina played in this game and was also outstanding. Kid can do more than shoot! Moves well and seems to be a tough as nails player who rarely backs down and when he shoots everyone including him expects the shot to go in. He is a huge recruit for people such as Seton Hall, and Rutgers, but I can see him at Syracuse as well if they recruit him, They can hide him on defense and they run an offense geared to him getting his shot off. Joel Hernandez of Teaneck was only player in the game without his name on his jersey. Jim Solmon, the games director and organizer, publicly apologized and Mr. Henandez went out and played in a way that made everyone watching know who he was when the game ended.

But here is my best player on the court award. It went to a kid many say has great grades, is a true good person and citizen, and can flat out play his butt off. I am referring to Daren Reed of Princeton Day School! This young man can do everything! Play defense, shoot, make Free Throws, pass, lead, dribble, create. jump, and work the concession stands at halftime before joining the band for the half-time show. He was so good I could not stop watching him. In fact here is a prediction. This kid will play in the NBA! He is that solid and the colleges in the area need to really step it up. He does EVERYTHING WELL, not good, WELL!

Lets talk about the Senior game. Nice to see the entire Anderson family show up with UCLA gear on. I am sure the bookstore at UCLA was happy they visited based on everyone having something on with UCLA on it. Kyle Anderson, who could be my best player of all-time, warmed up in his UCLA Basketball shirt. He seems happy and proud of his decision which is a great thing. Celebrate young Kyle because in September all clippings and rep start from scratch. But honestly this kids is and always will be the real deal in my eyes.

Let me point out something else about the great players such as Kyle Anderson. They play against the best and never ever run from basketball challenges. Last year I went to see Michael Gilchrist play in a number of showcase games since he was the number 1 player in America. He did not show for any of the games I attended. It was like he was hiding behind his rep and working hard to keep his rankings by not playing in games where ho might not look good due to a lack of team work etc. Well, Young Kyle seems like he would play on the moon if invited even if he had to play against two headed men with 4 arms. This kid has always competed from way back and played with the best against the best which is why he has developed so well.

Even with Kyle Anderson Philadelphia had a convincing win against NJ. NJ did have a nice team with Dallas Anglin playing like Seton Hall lost out on another Brevin Knight based on him being from Seton Hall Prep and not getting a sniff from SHU. He wisely chose Hofstra University of the tough CAA and boy did they get a solid player who has improved leaps and bounds from a year ago. Chris Jones of Teaneck was also solid. I honestly feel he would be a wonderful player for a program such as Dayton, St. Joes, Temple, Delaware, Hofstra, etc. if he gets a bit more of a swagger he could get noticed by even larger programs.

Melvin Johnson arrived late and announced he had committed to Miami. He went on to have a great 4th quarter. But I had to wonder why would any kid want to attend the University of Miami to play basketball? I understand its a great place to live, work, and be a student. But to play basketball? No one attends games, small arena, no one seems to care, etc. They seem to have the right guy coaching at Miami now. They have a guy who comes from George Mason, a team that went to the Final Four under him, yet rarely had a large crowd in that big arena on campus. He will understand playing ball in font of 2900 and your opponent is The University of North Carolina. This kid would have been great locally at SHU or Rutgers if they had the space. Even SJU or Temple. Miami? Crazy and to me poor advising!

Ok now here is the scoop on the best player in the building the entire day. And this kid is also a great student from what I hear and an even better person. If there are 50 better players in America than him I sure would love to see them. I am talking about Amile Jefferson a skinny and tough 6 ft 8 impact player who is a smaller version of Kevin Durant but maybe just as good as Kevin was as a HS senior based on what I saw yesterday of him and what I saw when I watched Kevin in HS. Kid goes with either hand and finishes at the rim. Shoots from long range, handles like a two guard, competes hard, passes to open man, and really defends. I understand he is a high level recruit but based on what I saw, he should be easily top 25 or 30. By the way his school, according to many, also is one of those ritzy prep schools.

So the two best players I saw yesterday (Kyle Anderson is really the best but had an off game and even with that I would still average 10 a game at my age playing with him) were traditional Prep School Guys with grades and personality! I love it and I love the fact the HS Season is coming up soon. It should be quite interesting.

Big East Split

I loved the joke one SHU Fan, who has often criticized me, put on the Pirate Crew Board a few weeks back. He said Rutgers has been accepted into the ACC with certain conditions. I and everyone else jumped to read what he had to say. He went on to say the conditions were a lump sum payment of $50,000,000 to the ACC to join and agreeing to play a JV schedule in basketball until the team gets better. Hilarious and as I told a SHU friend, I give credit where credit is due and that was funny as heck.

But really I think Rutgers remains a true sleeping giant in NCAA sports. It will only be a natter of time before Rutgers will be in a post season tournament in basketball and make one of the TRUE bowl games in football as opposed to such bowls as The White Castle Bowl, or The 7-11 Bowl. The football team at RU is one almost every kid in NJ considers when being recruited. It was not like that years ago. In basketball we can feel and see the momentum. I still say without some solid plans to improve and renovate the RAC, it will always be a serious up-hill battle. Kids want great facilities for the most part. The RU Football program has this but the basketball team, though it has a great coaching staff, needs to support facility wise to keep up with the competition. This has to be a road block for them being admitted to the ACC.

I am sure Seton Hall is watching all of the developments while quietly working and making in-roads with a number of wonderful young players. In fact they seem to be in touch with every good player within a 500 mile radius. Prudential center is quite Impressive and a kid still can have the best of many worlds. Nice and intimate college campus, huge basketball program playing in 20,000 seat arena, close to major cities, and maybe some of the best and most loyal fans in America.

Well, with Syracuse and Pitt headed out the door I see no reason why The BE does not peruse Xavier and Memphis. Both have great facilities and outstanding support. Memphis also has an up and coming football program. What is the wait? In fact this should be done now and Syracuse and Pittsburg should be allowed to leave at the end of the season. It would be embarrassing to see one of them win the BE Tournament at MSG.

Basketball wise it would be a strong conference with the addition of Memphis and Xavier. Even add Temple as a 3rd team in anticipation of Rutgers joining the ACC.

A Legend and Basketball Ambassador!!

2011-07-12T07:33:00.000-04:00

Good Morning:

I Hope you do not mind me sharing an experience I had Monday evening. This is not meant to be a downer as much as it is meant to highlight a real celebration of life. The life of a person we often referred to as A New York City Basketball Ambassador ! A guy who often put people involved in basketball together in the same room or gym. Amazing the number of people who knew him who collectively know every great HS player between Long Island and Pennsylvania.

Received some hard news that a wonderful person named Sid Jones passed a week ago. And when I say wonderful I mean it in every way possible. Personality, smile, demeanor, care about others even at his expense, ability to encourage others to do the best they can at all times, the ability to never give up on anyone, patience with everyone, intelligence, great family man and family man role model, great father, great grand father, outstanding organizer, outstanding coach, outstanding life coach, and much-much more.

Often when attending a funeral people talk about the deceased and highlight great stuff about him or her. Most of the time when this happens many people look at each other as if to ask "are we at the right funeral?" They do this because the person being laid to rest is not the person we knew. In the case of Sid Jones it was one of the few times where they did not even have to say much because no one, with the possible exception of President Barak Obama, has less package and controversy hidden in his closet. I honestly never saw Sid Jones raise his voice or get upset during a basketball game or in life. He oozed with goodness and understanding with almost Saint-Like Qualities. To know him is to appreciate him 100 percent.

Sid Jones was a friend of quite a few people I have the pleasure of knowing well. People who are great HS Coaches, Great College Coaches, and just wonderful people. Which is a reason why I wanted to share and highlight this going home service that brought out almost every NYC area basketball mover and shaker.

I honestly cannot believe Sid will not be a fixture at West 4th Street or the Nike Pro Am this summer physically. But spiritually we know he and guys like Bill Motley will not miss a game. In fact they will never have to worry about being late, or getting stuck in traffic. They will have season tickets to The Yankees, Nets, Mets, Knicks, HS Games, NCAA games and even find time to hit a movie or two if a good game is not taking place.

The funeral parlar, which was more like a funeral complex, was packed to the rafters with people from all over New York City, Long Island, and even New Jersey. But for the most part this was a Brooklyn USA event! And what an event it was! The turnout was a who's who of New York City area basketball. There were so many ex great players and coaches in attendance that at one time it would have equaled no less than 10 All City and All Area Basketball squads, 4 College All American Teams, and more than a dozen coach of the year candidates with the right opportunities. What a tribute, what a guy we had in Sid Jones, what a tremendous going home service.

Personally I expected to be real down after the service. But for one of the few times ever I left out feeling great based on this magnificent celebration of life. On a personal note sometimes I forget the many people I know through basketball, which is still such a part of my life. Based on the well wishers and folks walking up to me I felt as if I was an honorary Brooklyn resident. It is such a blessing to know so many people through a sport. It is also great because once again Sid Jones brought many of us together. I saw people I have not seen in 25 years. I saw people I forgot I knew. It was almost to the point there were so many of us there who were friends at one time the funeral almost turned into an actual networking events.

Well, the World has physically lost a great Man in Sid Jones. He surely will be missed but one thing for certain and one thing for sure, he will be with us spiritually and never forgotten physically for the rest of our lives. Rest in Peace Mr. Basketball Ambassador, SID JONES!!!

Monday Thoughts, July 11th, 2011

2011-07-11T07:28:00.001-04:00

Coaching Vacancies Etc.

Interesting to see how many ex NCAA Coaches who are let go find their way back so easily to both college and NBA positions. Often they become NBA Scouts, or even NBA Assistant Coaches. I guess it is who you really know more than the job you are capable of doing.

This practice is no different than what happens in corporate America, Govt. and Other industries people apply to for employment. If you know someone, you have a great chance of getting hired. If you are on the outs, or not on the scene, you are often forgotten. Looking at NCAA College Basketball makes me realize the more I look, the more I see so much the same from 20 years ago, as well as so much that needs to be changed.

I mentioned when I started this blog it would not be about the obvious. I am not interested in stats of the winning team, or who won the Championship Game. I want the behind the scene controversial stuff! And trust me, I get a lot of it via observing and emails sent to me, many of which I ignore based on the accusations being even too much for my blog. But today I need to touch base on a few things on my mind including the treatment of Coaches in College Basketball.

It is such a sad commentary watching all the very good coaches not receiving opportunities based on false reputations and folks being such fools they go out and hire unqualified people just to be safe. How does guys like Fran Frachillo, Al Skinner, and other not get positions? How does local guys who could help Big East and ACC schools not get hired while inexperienced guys are snatched up at great salaries based on knowing someone who knows someone. And lets not forget the big time coaches who influence people in who they hire by calling in favors owed them from years ago. ADs are not forgotten here. The deals many ADs make are ridiculous. I will not even talk about FDU firing Tom Green, getting rid of the end spectator stands, and really running a D3 program and calling it D1. Not the Head Coaches fault., it is the school administration! Still waiting for the announcement!

I look at schools such as Monmouth University and question the direction they are headed in. They finally had an opportunity to hire a great NJ?NYC based coach and they go out and hire a person with no NJ or NYC connections, and he does not even have a serious NJ or NYC influence on his staff. Here is where I really get controversial! It takes a lot of vision and understanding to hire a person who could make your program be noticed while creating a winning atmosphere. Fred Hill, Bobby Gonzalez, and Tom Green, all would have been ideal as would have been Al Skinner. Honestly Wayne Morgan, who is at Hofstra could have moved over there and got the job done in royal fashion as well. I know folks are going to go bananas over me including Bobby Gonzalez in this group. To that I say why not? Guy won wherever he has been. Guy might be a pain in the rear, but it works for him and it worked at both Manhattan and to an extent Seton Hall. I sure would have pulled the twigged on him or any of the others. At that level you take a chance to be great! OK update on Monmouth. I just learned that King Rice hired Brian reese and Derrick Phelps, both ex NYC HS Stars who most likely have not been in NYC for 15 years. Though it seems like a NYC connection, I am not convinced either of these guys have real NY connections that others might have had. But I remain hopeful for them because both were fine young men and great HS talents.

George Mason did just that hiring Paul Hewett, who was fired from Georgia Tech despite receiving millions in buy out money. I guess as long as you are a "Good" guy and non controversial you will always be OK. And you know Paul will win on that level because he will out think and out coach most of the guys he goes against in the CAA minus the folks at ODU and Virginia Commonwealth. But Paul is one of the real safe guys to hire and he will not be trouble or controversial. And just so folks do not get this twisted, Paul Hewett is a tremendous steal for a school like George Mason. I for one am shocked they got him!

Just hoping for a time when schools, head coaches, and ADs will hire the most qualified people and stop discriminating based on age, reputation, or who a candidate knows. So many super qualified guys walking around seeking employment and not being given even an interview. Sad!

High School Basketball

Had an interesting comment based on what I wrote about a few players I observed at the Reebok Event at Philadelphia University last week. I really was very disappointed in what I saw from the 2 players mentioned based on the potential each has. Well, one coach, and a coach I respect, from an CIAA D2 school mentioned how much he loved one of the players. And to that I said "And that's exactly the level he looked when I watched him exhibit zero footwork and around the basket offensive skills despite being a superb athlete. Heck kid could go to that CIAA school and become a Charles Oakley type NBA 1st Round Draft Choice! But right now he should be in the gym as I type this blog post.

Other kid has tremendous skills but has not developed the killer extinct needed to become a true high level D1 player at a place such as Syracuse, Georgetown, Villanova, North Carolina, etc. Maybe it is a result of him being so young he has not yet learned how to really compete day in and day out. Lots of guys with great skills in D2 programs and in the Entertainers League at Rucker Park in Harlem.

I hope someone shares this with both kids and they prove me wrong because there is no greater fan of Teaneck

St. Anthony's looks like the team to beat in New Jersey this upcoming season. Interesting how they adjusted from having most of the players from Jersey City years ago to now drawing from other parts of New Jersey and even New York. I am sure the kids went to them as opposed to them seeking these kids out! Bob Hurley is a legend and has done far too much for far too many people for me to think otherwise. I even think he was a catalyst for my son at one point. Honestly I am a St. Anthony's fan as well, though not as much as a Teaneck Fan. Guess soon I will be one of the older guys sitting behind the St. Anthony's bench with a Maroon jacket on cheering lol.

I sure would not sleep on St. Patricks despite them having a new coach. Seems as if there is a great possibility many of the main players will return after all. Now all the new coach has to do is be a good coach. Can anyone say pressure?

My Top 5 in New Jersey (excluding St. Benedict's based on them not being eligible)

St. Anthony's
St. Patrick's
Teaneck
Plainfield
Gil St. Bernard

NY Top 5 New York City (Excluding Rice based on the school closing)

Christ The King
Lincoln
St. Raymond's
Cardozo
Boys and Girls

Best Area Player

Kyle Anderson. I keep telling folks at my age I could average 10 points a game playing with him. I love his game, personality, demeanor, etc.

Most Underrated Area Player

Without a doubt Daniel Dingle at St. Raymond's. He will be special because of his approach to the game and attitude. Plus his brother will make sure he is prepared as will his HS Coach.

Honorable mention is Chris Jones at Teaneck HS. Great grades, great person, great player. As usual the great kid with respect for those around him gets taken for granted. Kid would be perfect role player at a high major program until his senior year when he would bust out and be a stud!

Best Coach

Bob Hurley

Honorable Mention (excluding Bob Commino at Mount vernon based on them not being in NYC)

Tiny Morton at Lincoln, Ron Naclerio at Cardozo, Morgan Sina at Gil St. Bernard, Ruth Lovelace and Elmer Anderson at Boys and Girls, John Mathis at Kennedy, Oliver Antiqua St. Raymond's, Jerome Smart Teaneck.

Reebok Philadelphia University Camp and More

2011-07-08T07:51:00.000-04:00

I seem to always come on here apologizing for being away so long. Today is no different but I promise to write a lot more in the coming months leading to what I hope will be an interesting college and HS basketball season.

Lets start with the state of recruiting and the closing of Rice HS. I cannot believe all the craziness with Rice HS closing down. Where are all the alumni and ex players? Where are the benefit games to pump money back into a fine school that has done its share to assist and educate young men for many years. I cannot believe the only thing positive from Rice HS is the Basketball team. But based on rumors, I now see why Moe Hicks ran, not walked, to the job he now has at St. Johns. Man has to do what he has to do!

Interesting seeing all the young kids in New York, New Jersey, Philly, and Maryland being swept away by the recruiting process. Who is advising these kids? Kids are committing and changing schools almost weekly. I really question this un-official visit stuff that is taking place. Kids should not be allowed to commit as a HS Sophomore or even as a Junior. Stuff happens, things change, and coaches leave. Again where is the guidance?

So now the St. Patricks of NJ kids, including a few from NYC, will be staying at St. Patricks to play for the new coach. Ummmmmmmm? Great for him! Is it great for them? Still remember that guy coaching at Marist of Bayonne after the ex coach left and the program being considered a NJ power. Hope he does better this time around or else they will become just as Marist is at the present time. I do wonder if St. Patricks is hiding some information on their financial existence based on Kevin Boyle running out of there similar to how Moe Hicks left Rice.

Seems to me that Lincoln HS in Brooklyn along with Cardozo in Queens have proven that with hard work and a rep for getting kids into quality colleges, they provide just as much if not more than the traditional private school powers. Heck Lincoln picks the best of the best similar to what Christ The King did in the past and Malloy did in the far distant past.

Reebok Camp

OK here it comes, controversy 101. What the heck is the purpose of this camp? What are these kids really getting besides a good run, some Reebok Slippers and Sneakers, and an opportunity to stay at a Division 2 school with only decent facilities. Are you kidding me? What the heck is that and what are they selling?

I want to see any of the kids in the camp, or any of their friends or family members under 35 go into a sneaker store and ask for the new Reebok Sneakers. John Wall himself, who wears those sneakers, dreams of putting on some comfortable Nikes.

Interesting how they had a separate players entrance as if some of those kids would be exploited by the D1, and D2 Coaches in attendance. Hell they should be careful and separate those kids from some of the Rec Coaches they are involved with.

Since I have been missing in action for some time I was able to be a fly on the wall in the hallway outside the gym. People are still making deals and selling as well as receiving. Crazy!

Watched 3 games and was hardly impressed with the exception of having an opportunity to sit with Todd Green, the son of ex FDU Coach Tom green who remains a favorite of mine. Todd is doing scouting for an NBA Team

Was very interested in seeing the 3 kids from Teaneck HS play. Everyone knows I am a true Teaneck fan and bleed blue. But on this day I was very disappointed in what 2 of the 3 Teaneck kids did on the court.

I read on ESPN that Neville Fincher really helped himself. Well, they must not have watched the game I saw where he looked as if he just started playing basketball that morning. In fact that would be giving him too much credit. He looked as if he just started playing a minute before he came on the court! No footwork, no shot, just tough kid and athletic but unable to demonstrate except in the warmup line where he was putting on a dunk exhibition. Maybe he has worked out with a blind coach this summer preparing him for next season. Because anyone with vision can clearly see this kid has potential but without putting in the work makes no difference. But he has that tough baller look and I guess that counts for something. Good thing he is 6 ft 9 and not 6 ft 3!

Watched Joel or is it Juel Hernandez as well. Now everyone seems intrigued by this Ricardo Greer clone. Coaches call me asking if I know him, he gets great props based on what I have not figured out yet. Now the problem with this kid is not a lack of skills and ability. This kid lacks the ability to compete every play and every minute he is on the court. In other words he goes through the motions. Watched as he was so stiff from doing half speed warm ups prior to the game that he barely got up and down the court. Looking too cool, and acting as if he was still warming up with a minute left in the 1st quarter, he looked lazy and not focused. Waste of talent who will still be a low D1 player who could have been a high D1 player with the right shoulders and above training. Maybe he will attend FDU? Uggggggggggggg! Sorry!

All this makes me question if AAU/Rec basketball is hurting kids who need skill development. Does Neville Finch, who should be working on his footwork and skills need games all over the country where all he does he mostly rebound or would he be better off staying around Teaneck and working on his game and body in the gym?

Kids like Karl Anderson can afford to travel the globe because they have game already. Others need to really think about this as should there AAU coaches. And where are the HS coaches?

Interesting also watching and reading about games going on all over America and finding out some kids who are rising juniors and seniors have grade point averages less than 1. 2 heading into the season. The way I see it either the Parents do not give a damn, or they feel kid will never qualify so why not allow him to have fun playing. To that I say shame on the parents and shame on a HS coach who allows this. No one should be allowed to play anywhere if they cannot read or write! Keep that kid home for the summer and educate him so that he will at the least be able to live a normal life. I cannot believe this is still happening! The NCAA needs to really look into who should be allowed to play at these camps during the summer months. And I am talking about multiple kids!!!!

Well, in the NY Metro area the colleges are doing all they can to attract good players. That again brings me to FDU. Sorry, but some things stay on my mind. And Coach Greg Vetrone this is not about you as much as about that tired administration in place there. If they provide you with decent, I did not say great, support you could do good things. As it is now FDU must be the worst job in D1 College Basketball. The administration messed up the gym by getting rid of seating and not replacing to the point it looks like a terrible and dingy HS gym and far from a college arena. Again I feel an announcement will come in the next few years changing the FDU basketball team to D3. I really feel bad for the coaching staff. I even watched as Marcus Tony El walked through Philadelphia University proudly displaying his FDU shirt. I cannot wait to see what they average in attendance this season.

Saw the LaSalle Coach in the Hallway. What a nice guy and very personable. I guess you can see why he has had success. Cannot see him at LaSalle much longer as larger schools seek out his services. Saw the new coach at Virginia State looking at players. First time I have ever seen a CIAA coach on this side of Baltimore Maryland. Next thing you know the CIAA schools will all be up north and even start hiring a few NY and NJ guys.

That's it for now. I will be back with more updates on a more consistent basis. Stay well and enjoy the day!

Todays Thoughts

2011-03-04T12:02:00.000-05:00

Friday March 4, 2011

Interesting basketball news all over America. Lets start with college basketball.

Seton Hall beats St. Johns at The Prudential Center!This is not an upset in my mind. This is how many people expected Seton Hall to play this season. Yes, again I understand the injuries that have happened in South Orange. But the SHU team has still under achieved all season long. I honestly expected a NCAA birth this season or at the least a high NIT seed! The talent is there, but the team just never seemed to jell. Those who disagree with me should only look at the performance against St. Johns last night. They beat the same St. Johns team that has beater some quality opponents and highly ranked teams. Name of the game is consistency, and Seton Hall showed very little consistency wise this season.

Now on the other hand, I would not want to play Seton Hall at Madison Square Garden in The Big East Tournament. The Rutgers vs Seton Hall game, if that is a matchup, will definitely be worth watching. The winner will be a hard out for the next opponent. And if the winner is Seton Hall, they just might go on a serious roll and surprise a lot of people. Remember this team really has good players.

St. Johns should recover well. St. Johns is back and how they do next season will provide a glimpse of future years to come. It will be the time to reclaim NYC and all the fans they had at one time when the Garden was sold out for St. Johns games. The new kids coming in are all highly rated and one or two will even be older freshmen from what I hear. But what they have in talent might not measure up to this years team experience wise. The Big East remains a Mans league and young players not named Carmelo Antony do not always come in and dominate.

All I will say about Rutgers is they are sneaking up on many people. Very good recruiting class but I am not convinced they are killers who can come in and dominate. Than again the coach seems like the type of guy that can make an average player into a household name! He gets his team to compete! He gets them to compete everyday, every week, and every month. Rutgers with Mike Rice is quite scary to many!

Monmouth job is on the lips of many. Like I have said to many, that job is one of the best mid major jobs in America based on program potential. Only thing that hurts the job is the lame conference they compete in with many schools who really do not even know they have D1 basketball programs. Teams like FDU (Saddest D1 program in America hands down), St. Francis Brooklyn, St. Francis Pa., are a Horrible group of schools. Tom Green must be sick to his stomach watching what has happened to a program he built. I am not pointing at one coach in the NEC. I am pointing at the ADs and Presidents because Coaches are committed much more than the schools. I often wonder why kids would turn down quality schools in the MEAC (Historically Black D1 Conference with Hampton, Florida A&M, Del State, etc.) to attend some of those schools that are like JV to the HS and AAU programs kids they are recruiting come from?

Back to Monmouth. This job could really be great if there was a plan, even a secrete plan, to change conferences. I honestly think the Patriot League with Lehigh, Bucknell, Lafayette, Holy Cross, etc. is a better conference. The Patriot is a conference that is competitive with fan and school support. This is such a great opportunity for Monmouth to get the right person as coach and not just do the good ole boy thing with a local golden boy or favorite son. But if they plan on just averaging 1000 people in that nice building, playing FDU tough at FDU in front of 185 real fans, and at home in front of 700, than just do the usual and hire the local HS coach, the one not names Hurley. I still feel they could have a long term plan for the MAC, The MAAC, The CAA, etc. Football or no football, it would not make a difference.

Looks like Manhattan will make a change. Again I am telling people the AD at Manhattan loves Tony Chiles, the current St. Johns Assistant. Columbia grad, connected in NYC, NJ, Pa, Delaware, DC, (which is why Steve Lavin hired him), kids love him, experienced, personable (No One Dislikes TONY), and hard working! Plus he is a NYC CHSAA guy who played at All Hollows, and coached at Manhattan for a few years before going to Iona. Thats a story to share after he is named coach at Manhattan. This is a real no brainer! Time for Manhattan to do the right thing! Manhattan would never be sorry.

Look at how this all falls into place. Tony goes to Manhattan and guess who takes his place? You got it, the current Manhattan Coach who is a 5 star Assistant Coach and Recruiter.

I hope Marist stays with Chucky Martin. Nuff said!

Ditto the coach at Siena. Good guy who has coached at Fairfield, and even Cleveland State. But Siena fired Rob Lanier after one losing season last time out.

Here are other things I have heard over the past few days. Jamie Dixon leaves Pitt for? You got it right if you said he will be the next coach at North Carolina State for $3,000,000 per season. Gary Williams is about done at Maryland. Maybe not after this season but in the very near future. Guess who replaces him? Again you are right. It is none other than Mike Brey! Remember Mike is from the area and attended Dematha and even was an Assistant there. Watch as the puzzle falls into place.

Back to Monmouth. This is a guess, but it could happen. If Bob Hurley wins the NJ Tournament of Champions, I feel he would have done all he could on the HS level. Hall of Fame, wins nationally, helping kids in Jersey City, and much more. This is the time when he could retire to his home on the shore and guess what job awaits him? You got it right if you say Monmouth. Only problem is his Son Danny is coach of Wagner in the same boring conference. But maybe Danny moves on after this year to a position on the North Carolina State Staff, and Bobby joins his dad at Monmouth. Ummmmmmmmm! Very interesting!

High School Basketball

I am really looking at all the schedules in the tri state area for games to attend. Now everyone knows I will be at Teaneck games before I go anywhere else. And if you have not seen Teaneck, you are missing out because they are very good with at least 3 mid major or higher talents on the team. And all are home grown and UNDERCLASSMEN! They also have some pretty good seniors who those NJAC teams should be knocking on the door for. Are they blind? How could they not be pushing up on those talented kids who really are good enough to start at Teaneck but are caught up in numbers.

If I was a tournament organizer I would be reaching out to this team for next season because they will be special regardless of how they end the year. They really should be the 3rd ranked team in New Jersey.

I am so excited about watching St. Anthony's vs St. Patrick's next week. WAIT! I am also excited about watching Gil St. Bernard's play St. Patricks. Gil St. Bernard's just might the best backcourt in New Jersey. Better than Seton Hall, Rutgers, and The Nets! OK that is a stretch but they are the best underclass backcourt in NJ hands down. This game could be an exciting one. The suburbs vs the city lol. Almost like Hoosiers the movie. Do not sleep Gil St. Bernard!

The St. Anthony;s vs Hudson Catholic game could be a good one as well. Only problem is how to get into that small rec. gym St. Anthony's plays games in. I am sure people are on line right now.

When the smoke clears, we could be in for the biggest HS basketball game in the history of NJ HS Sports. A game that should sell out. In fact I need to head over to buy my tickets right now because I do not want to miss this game.

Over in NYC they are in the quarter finals of the city PSAL championships. My prediction is Boys and Girls will win it all. But a Lincoln and Boys and Girls championship game at Madison Square Garden will be huge as well. When those two play, anything can happen.

I still look for a final of Christ the King vs Rice in the CHSAA championship game. Interesting how schools like Lincoln, Boys and Girls, Cardozo, Kennedy, Wings, and Jefferson has knocked the CHSAA out of the automatic best NYC league category. The teams mentioned have held serve and convinced kids who in years past would have ran to Rice, Christ the King,etc., that PSAL programs are on the rise and in most cases even better programs.

Well, now off to plan my schedule for the next 8 days. What an exciting time of the year!

It Has Been A long Time!

2011-03-01T06:13:00.001-05:00

Good Morning fellow basketball lovers. For those who are looking for the work of a person with an editor please do not read.

I guess like most others I am really caught up in the NY Knick hype with the addition of Carmelo Anthony and others. What is surprising to me is how long it took the Knicks to pull the trigger. Does anyone besides me feel Chauncy Billips is a true improvement over Raymond Felton? How soon folks forget Mr. Clutch or Mr. 4th Quarter as he was called in the past. A solid point guard is the glue that holds any team together from biddy basketball to the NBA. Chauncy Billips will do this and more for the NY Knicks. I also look for Carmello and Amare to be as good a one two punch scoring wise as the NBA has seen in recent years. The three of them together will make everyone else around them better. Plus it makes the Garden the place to be again just as it was during the Clyde/Reed/Earl the Pearl days.

Though I did not follow NBA basketball for a number of years, I now find myself watching more and more. I love the younger players in the league. Blake Griffin is something to watch. He is fearless and a true highlite film in the Dominique Wilkins category! Kevin Durant could be better than everyone else in the NBA very soon. Even in Oklahoma he cannot hide his greatness. Of course the big three in Miami are a sight to see even though in my eyes Chris Bosh is a tad overrated and not on the others level. Chris Paul is another star but will soon run from the South to a more glamor city to perform. NY just might be his destination.

The NY Nets are trying hard to keep up with the Joneses as best they can. But it seems to me they need some serious help in the front office. And as much money as the owner has, he is away in Russia way too much to really understand what is happening around the NBA. The trade they recently made for Deron Williams might be the biggest waste of time I have ever seen. Yes, he is great players! But being a midwestern guy will most likely mean he will sign with a midwestern team as soon as he can to get away from NJ or Brooklyn.

Speaking of Brooklyn, I eagerly await the move of the NJ Nets to Brooklyn. However, seeing to me is still believing because in the back of my mind I still do not see this happening. But the experts say the Arena is going up and the move is no schedule. I just feel that an announcement will come in the near future that the Russian Owner has decided to stay in NJ and build yet another Arena away from Downtown Newark for the team. Just a hunch on my part. I most likely am wrong but deep inside I think there will be a snafu soon regarding this move.

College Basketball

I have been watching area college basketball very closely. Seems to me that St. Johns is back! This is despite the fact they have won some big games. They were back just being average. But thus far they have gone beyond expectations winning wise. Oddly it is being done with the type of players that made St. Johns and Lou Carnesecca famous, the very good players not on top 50 lists. Hardy was a very good player in HS but far from being on any top 50 lists. Not sure he was even on top 100 lists. But he is a player that has skills in the mode of the past legends that came out of NYC to make St. Johns a college power for years.

Many people forget that St. Johns was always mentioned as one of the true basketball powers nationally along with North Carolina, Kansas, Kentucky, UCLA, etc. There was no Duke, Memphis, Kansas State, etc. St. Johns was one of the top programs and they had a way of keeping many of the good NY area HS players home. From Northern NJ to Long Island, if St. Johns wanted you, you listened. And trust me, Lou Carnessecca had the ability to close the deal. Heck Lou is such a good man he could sell ice in Alaska. St. Johns past teams were tough and skilled just as they are now.

Last thing on St. Johns. Steve Lavin still needs to send Norm Roberts a Thank You Card for all the players he recruited that Lavin now coaches. These guys are doing great and honestly I expected them to do good this year even if Norm was the coach. However I never expected what I am seeing. But both St. Johns and Notre Dame are showing what can happen when you recruit 4 year players as opposed to one and done guys other than Carmella Anthony or Labron James types.

Rutgers should keep its head up high because they have had a great season considering what has happened there over the past 4 years. It has been a zoo to say the least and it is not all because of Fred Hill or Gary Waters. Many players had a hand in the mess as did the AD who thought he was more important then the Rutgers President. Well, sometimes you have to tear down and re-build and that is exactly what is happening.

The way Coach Rice has Rutgers playing makes it easy for the current AD to get funds to renovate the RAC. I can see them gutting the entire inside and redoing all the seating, putting in new video scoreboards and sound system, installing a new floor, new locker rooms, and building a nice two court practice facility right next door. I see this happening in the very near future and when it does just imagine what would happen. As far as the current coaches? They all deserve a raise! In fact Mike Rice should get an extension ASAP to lock him in. He is the true face of Rutgers basketball!

Seton Hall has had what many would consider a very disappointing season. Here come the Seton Hall fans to debate me with butter knives against a sword. Look at the record against the talent on the team. OK I understand that Hazell was injured and others had issues that needed to be addressed. But what should have been a NCAA contending year seems to be out of the question at this time. I really wish Seton Hall was better if for no other reason than the many loyal and knowledgable Seton Hall fans who live and die with the Pirates.

Recruiting wise it looks like next year could be even worst than this year unless the returning players really step it up and compete as a team. But there seems to not be many reinforcements on the way! I sure hope the SHU staff is out looking at JC players and un-signed HS seniors with BE potential. Their first destination should be Hutchinson Kansas and the National JC Championships. Second would be every HS event they can attend in a 10 state radius. I still say Seton Hall is a great destination for players. A great learning environment, a great arena, very good fan support in an urban area with pro teams, and very good tradition.

I still have concerns over the current SHU Staff. Willard and Holloway are understandable. But again I say where is the killer recruiter who has ties to DC Assault, The LI Panthers, The Gauchos, Playez, or is it Playaz. Where is the guy who can open the door to HS programs nationally and has a track record of getting great players to campus for Willard to close the deal? Remember the assistant Coach sets the table and the head Coach cooks the meal, and makes the deal!

Looking at other area college teams I anticipated some openings. What these programs do now will determine what will happen for years to come. Monmouth is the first program that comes to my mind. If you have never been to that campus you might not fully understand what that program is capable of becoming. The campus, location, and facilities all make it possible to be one of the best mid major programs in the entire country! This is the type of job a big-time program Assistant would accept. It is the type of program that can pick and choose despite being is a very low D1 conference, the Northeast Conference. I can even see other area Head Coaches and EX HEAD COACHES attempting to get involved. Maybe Danny Hurley should have waited for this one? Kevin Boyle? Either of these guys could do a great job. So could Bob Hurley Sr. If he wins the NJ Tournament of Champions anything is possible. Why not go out a winner? What else is there to accomplish for him on the HS level? Does he not have a home on the Jersey Shore? UMMMMMMMMM!

But if not Coach Hurley, why not someone with great experience looking for a challenge. I would not be surprised if they looked at people like Ex Rutgers Coaches Bannon and Hill. I can also see them hiring a person with a great personality who will assist in putting butts in the seats at games. This is what Mike Brey did at The University of Delaware which at one time was the best mid major job on the East Coast. The hires after Brey have not done the PR job he did although all were very good coaches. But College basketball programs need coaches who can sell to recruits and fans alike.

Not sure what is happening at Rider. However for a program playing games in a JHS type gym they sure do OK. FDU, wait I need a separate paragraph to talk about that place. Lets discuss Marist. Another sleeping giant in need of a winning basketball program. Chucky Martin is a great guy, but will he get it done there? I sure hope so. But many folks are watching from the wings thinking this job will open after the season ends.

I hear a lot of kids are looking at Manhattan College. That is a wonderful but will the Head Coach, who everyone loves, ever get it done in Riverdale? I wonder if he is second guessing not taking the St. Johns Associate Head Coaching Job? I have heard this could be this wonderful mans last season. If so Seton Hall needs to be in the parking lot helping him with his bags and leading him to South Orange in a limo with a bucket of money! I hear a lot of big-time programs are positioning themselves to snatch him up if he departs Manhattan,

Now if there is a change at Manhattan I know the perfect person for the job. None other than Tony Chiles, the current St. Johns Assistant who worked at Manhattan under Fran and Iona under Jeff Ruland. Speaking of Ruland I would not be surprised to see him as a candidate at Monmouth. But Tony Chiles at Manhattan with the right staff would be great! And I would bet Tony would be great for folks to work for. Columbia grad with a lot of experience and knowhow. Also look for Tim Welsh to get involved at Monmouth!

Had an opportunity to attend the Bergen Jamboree at FDU last week. I cannot believe what I saw. They took a nice gym and turned it into a JHS gym. What was once 4500 seats is now around 2000 seats and they do not even match. Looks like a dump and thats exactly how the team plays. Not about the coaches at this time because what can they do with an administration not committed to a winning D1 program. This gym looks more and more like Pratt Institute looked years ago when it was unkept and dull. Where is the fund raising by the AD? Where is the President on this? Does the President know they have a team? This might just be the worst D1 program in the United States. No one cares, no one comes to games, and they seem to have no future. I will not be surprised if they announce that the school is moving to D2 or D3 status. Honestly what is the point if you are not giving your coach more support! How can he recruit against Monmouth and the new Arena and new Coach? I have always felt FDU needed a marketing team to get folks out. I now feel they can wait on that until they fix that terrible gym and bring back the seating or at least match the seating up to look decent. What a waste of a program! Tom Green must feel sick about this based on how hard he worked to make it a program and even getting to the NCAA's a few times. The current coach must feel helpless trying to recruit with those resources. I would not be surprised if they have the coaches using public transportation to get to games and recruit.

HS Basketball

Congratulations to Pocono Mountain West HS for a great season and beating Pocono Mountain East in the last game. I still think many low and mid major D1 programs are missing some good players at those schools. Villanova came up and found a hidden talent at Liberty HS this season. I have told numerous coaches about talent at those places and either they are just too lazy or too stupid to make the drive that is between 1 and 3 hours for most schools.

Looking forward to a great matchup between St. Anthony's and St. Patrick's at Rutgers. I might just drive down on Wednesday to purchase a few tickets. I have read that the game just might be moved to The Prudential Center in Newark if it happens. Either way I am in the building to witness the number 1 vs number 2 team in the nation compete.

After those two teams the rest of the State of NJ is almost even with any of a number of teams being the 3rd best. But if 6 Ft 9. Nevelle Fincher just learns to COMPETE by rebounding and playing solid defense, Teaneck just might be the 3rd best HS team in NJ. This team is young with the seniors, many worthy of a D2 or D3 look, coming off the bench. In fact tournament organizers should be looking at Teaneck and even Hackensack for tournaments next year and years to come based on the youth and ability of both teams players. Teaneck has at least 3 D1 players in the lineup with a slight possibility of 2 more joining them.

In NYC I am happy for Coach Dwaine Mitchell at Rice. No one should ever doubt his coaching because he has always been one of the best all the way back to his Biddy coaching days. Guy is a winner and developer of talent. I anticipate a Rice vs Christ The King Game soon!

Love the job Ruth Lovelace and Elmer Anderson along with my man Gene Carroll is doing at Boys and Girls. They are proving NYC toughness with skills and ability, and good coaching is hard to beat. Ditto Lincoln, Wings, Cardoza, Kennedy (Johnny Mathis is EXCEPTIONAL!!!!!) , These schools have closed the gap between the CHSAA and the PSAL. In fact I think Boys and Girls, Lincoln, Wings, Cardoza, etc. could beat most CHSAA teams.

Speaking of Wings Academy. Caught them in a showcase tournament in NJ sponsored by the GYM Rats AAU at Ramapo College. Great event and great job by Dwight Morrow (Englewood NJ) Girls Coach Donald Osbourne who was the master mind behind this event. Wings was exceptional and the coaching was outstanding! I had heard of the coach for years and never really Watched him coach. But boy could he coach! Now here is the down side and what separates him from many other very good coaches. What in heavens name made him wear a t-shirt and sneakers on the sideline? I mean not even a team t-shirt. I might as well had said Joe's Soul Food Kitchen, etc. Are you kidding me? He looked like he was coaching in July at Rucker Park? Why not a coaching shirt? Why not a nice warm-up suit? Despite his fine coaching many in attendance were shocked at his appearance. I am not looking to embarrass but just letting folks know that teachers and coaches need to have a professional look while at work. Because this Coach, and again he was OUTSTANDING, sure had the wrong image. And I am stunned that a guy who I consider the best Principal in the entire USA when it comes to understanding HS and College athletics has not mentored this future great coach better! I guess some will say would i take a great coach in a t-shirt over a poor coach in a suit and tie? I would say both need to change up (smile).

Well thats it and as I sign off I want to thank Donald Osbourne, Bobby Holford, and others for inviting me and Jim Couch to a great day of basketball recently at Ramapo College. We also thank you for the awards you presented to us and the love you shared. Also nice to see Bobby on the side lines assisting a HS Program with a kid who might just be the best young player in NYC! After Bobby is finished I am sure he will be better than he is now. After all Bobby Holford is and always will be one of the best teachers of the game and the best station 5 (is that the tough station at 5 Star Camp?) Instructors of all time. Still amazed at him not coaching on a higher level!

Friday January 21, 2011

2011-01-21T10:35:00.000-05:00

Friday, January 21, 2011

With bad weather outside and a lot to watch on television including Sundays football game involving the NY/NJ Jets, I have to communicate my thoughts on weekend events ranging from College Hoop games to a great HS event many might not be aware of in Northern NJ.

Lets start with College basketball and one of my favorite topics, Rutgers vs Seton Hall. This should be a very competitive game and one for bragging rights in NJ. In addition, this game will have a tremendous impact on recruiting based on environment and the competitive spirit that hopefully both teams will exhibit.

As I have said for many years this game should be standing room only regardless of the location being Piscataway or Newark. Lets look at my rationale for feeling this way. Rutgers averages at least 4000 fans per game with many more fans who have a serious interest in beating Seton Hall. Seton Hall averages around 6000 fans and has many more very interested in beating Rutgers. In addition, there are thousands of others hoping for this game to become a natural rivalry. So why does this game not sell out? Marketing, marketing, and marketing!

I continue to wonder why the Newark Star Ledger does not get more involved with this game which could develop into a huge event! The Star Ledger Cup! I said this years ago and I think they do give a trophy out or something similar. But where is the marketing assistance needed to make this game an event and a sell out? The Star Ledger should have been running free ads daily for a percentage of the gate to go to a charity. Maybe open up the top of the arena and sell the tickets for $10 or even give them away to CYO programs throughout NJ. But one way or another the attendance should be no less than 15,000 with proper marketing!

Game wise, if Rutgers fans can support their team by traveling the turnpike for 35 minutes, that would be an additional 3000 fans. Add the usual 7000 SHU fans and that would be 10,000. Now drum up interest via ads and marketing and give away 3000 $10 tickets for the upper level and any recruit in attendance will be super impressed. And that includes all the super recruits who love to attend local games to be wined and dined, but really have no interest in attending the school that is doing the wining and dinning. Trust me on this! Imagine every year 15,000 for the annual Rutgers vs SHU game? With partial proceeds going to charity!

Well, we can only hope for this atmosphere. But even without, this game should be a dandy one and a great start to an interesting day of college basketball with some games that should be very competitive.

Other great games for Saturday include: Villanova/Syracuse, Tennessee/UConn, Marquette/Notre Dame, Cincinnati/St. Johns, Texas/Kansas, Temple/Xavier, Ohio State/Illinois, Virginia Commonwealth/Old Dominion, New Mexico/UNLV, and Michigan State/Purdue. The interesting thing is all these games should be very good and extremely competitive and close. And we can even add The NJ Tech/Chicago State game to this as a competitive game.

What a great Saturday for those staying inside from the cold! The great thing about the games listed is most are on Television. Hope you enjoy all the action!

HS Basketball

Now for those of you who are not planning on staying in, and interested in some great HS basketball there is a great event taking place at Dwight Morrow HS in Englewood NJ on Saturday and Ramapo College In Mahwah NJ on Sunday. And what an event this will be! Sponsored by The NJ Gym Rats Organization and the Head Coach of The Dwight Morrow HS Girls Basketball program Donald Osbourne as a fundraiser for tuition assistance for players and entry fees for the Gym rats program, this event has everything true HS fans want to see. Great competitive games in a great atmosphere.

Well back to the event! On Saturday January 22 at Dwight Morrow HS in Englewood NJ some of the top HS programs from NY and NJ will be going against each other. Here is the Saturday Schedule:

Hackensack vs St. Anthony's Girls Game 2 PM
Dwight Morrow vs Bishop Kearney (NY) Girls Game 3:30 PM
John F, Kennedy vs Bishop Ford (NY) Girls Game 5 PM
Hackensack vs Bishop Ford (NY) Boys Game 6:30 PM
Paramus Catholic vs Sacred Heart (Westchester) Boys Game 8 PM
Tenafly vs Dwight Englewood Boys Game 9:30 PM

Great games to see and quite a few college prospects on display!

On Sunday the action shifts to Ramapo College in Mahwah NJ for some outstanding Boys contests with a number of very good division 1 prospects being on display. If you really wish to see teams that most people are not talking about yet have traditionally turned out good D1 players, with this year and next year being no different, you need to be here on Sunday! As many as 12 future division 1 players could be on display including a few good enough for the Big East, ACC, and The Big 10. Here is the Sunday Schedule:

Girls Game
Abraham Clark vs Marist Girls Game 12 Noon

Strong Boys Games
Newark Tech (NJ) vs Pathways College Prep (With the number 1 Sophomore in NYC) 1:30 PM
Newark Central vs John F. Kennedy (Great NYC Program with 2 City Championships) 3 PM
Paramus Catholic (State Ranked) vs Wings Academy (Great NYC Program) 4:30 PM

The Final Game and a GREAT GAME folks have wanted for years!
Teaneck (State ranked and possibly 3rd best team in State) vs Cardoza (Great NYC Program and multiple NYC Champions with numerous D1 players as alumni and many more on present team) 6 PM

This weekend is action packed with hoops to watch on TV or in person. Personally? I will be watching the HS games in NJ. I am so excited about the games, especially Sunday's Teaneck vs Cardoza game, I put off a business trip until Monday. Hope to see many of you at Dwight Morrow and Ramapo College.

Wednesday Thoughts

2011-01-12T11:44:00.001-05:00

It is Wednesday and I have watched a lot of basketball from the front row in my home. Much of what I have seen was expected, but some things were not.

Never expected to see Tennessee lose 2 in a row even without Bruce Pearl. Losing to Florida at home last night was very unexpected. Received text messages from a number of friends who follow the sport closely and they were equally surprised. What does all this backsliding do for the tenure of Bruce Pearl as Coach at Tennessee? Will it give the school reason to find “Cause” to terminate his contract?

Honestly for what he is being punished for, the NCAA needs to look in the mirror and realize they are making a huge thing over something minor while other schools are purchasing homes and cars for recruits families, as well as providing employment opportunities for relatives. But here they go making Bruce Pearl a villain while other folks are committing major infractions. Does the NCAA really care?

This is why it is so hard to get in touch with the NCAA regarding thoughts and feelings. I even knew two ex police investigators who attempted to get jobs but could never even make contact. They are like a secrete society, harder to get to than the CIA. They just continue to make money and act like dictators looking only at convenient infractions and often looking the other way when powerful programs commit violations.

I guess everyone can see I support Bruce Pearl and hope he comes back and gets his team together. And yes I do know he was a whistle blower years ago!

Locally St. Johns takes on a very good Syracuse team tonight in Madison Square Garden. After losing to Notre Dame on the road in their previous game, this is a very important game not only because winning is better than losing, but because it will establish St. Johns as actually being back or on the way back to where they were years ago. . This is a game that should have the Garden rocking like the days of Berry and Mullen. Like when Mel Davis and Billy Schaeffer were doing it big. Like when Matt Brust was diving through people. Like when Frankie Alagia was throwing passes around his neck to Beaver Smith cutting to the basket. I really am glad St. Johns is getting better despite what some might think. St. Johns has always been the college team of New York City and that is my hometown. Adding to that is my true respect for both Tony Chiles, and Mo Hicks. One thing I will also point out is Lavin hired the best staff he could regardless of anything but what they brought to the table. They have it covered recruiting wise from the east coast to the west coast, and have superb teachers and coaches on the bench.

Rutgers might have lost a game yesterday vs. UConn, but they are really on the right track. They continue to compete and get better! I also like the way Mike Rice coaches and encourages his players. Mike also was smart enough not to get caught up politically and hired two guys who could recruit NYC and The DC area regardless of background and ethnicity. He hired the best for the job! Funny on TV the RAC looks pretty state of the art for a college facility. Just imagine if they made real improvements!

Seton Hall played a pretty good game in the last outing against Syracuse. I really felt the toughness of Seton Hall finally showed up. I watched and yes Willard seems to be a good coach. Again I say with experience he will be even better. But until than they have a long hill to climb. And that is not an endorsement for him to hire Fred Hill Jr. Although that is far from a bad idea! Last I heard Fred Hill was really liked on the SHU campus. Could be a huge pick-up if it ever happened because we know Fred has connections he hopefully did not lose when his personality completely changed as a Head Coach.

With Hazell back in the line-up, Seton Hall becomes a much better team. A team others now fear and look at differently.

People are really watching Manhattan, Monmouth, Delaware, Marist, and a few others regarding possible openings after the season. Looks like Cincinnati has turned it around and baring a late season breakdown, the coaching situation should not change. Georgia Tech remains interesting. But can anyone win big there in a league with Carolina, Duke, and Maryland? Georgia Tech is a harder job than folks realize despite them being in the ACC. Regardless the line is forming in the rear with people very interested. Tennessee mess around with Bruce Pearl and he might go there if Hewitt ever leaves!

Boston College is doing pretty good but I expected them to do well this season. Not sure if they would not have same results with Al Skinner there but Steve Donohue is doing a great job. Steve is one of the very good guys despite not giving my guy Ramon minutes when he played at Cornell! Good thing Ramon studied hard because he is now a practicing Attorney doing quite well. Some say he will be the first Dominican American mayor in New York City years from now.

Best staff in NY Metro area (not counting Head Coaches) for recruiting is Hofstra! They have a Big East Staff who would do well anywhere. Problem is they are in the CAA and have to be able to evaluate a bit different than they did in the past. Easy to identify the top 200 kids but now you have to find the top 400 and kids who fit what you are attempting to do.

On the HS front I am really looking forward to the Teaneck vs. Cardozo game at Ramapo College in New Jersey on January 23, 2011. That game will have some great talent on both teams. I am going to this game even if there is a blizzard.

Good HS games in Springfield Mass coming up. Should I go or should I watch on TV? Well I will watch one way or another.

Lastly. Wagner College has it going on! Looks very attractive to me for kids looking for a good situation. The place is close and facilities not bad. My honest guess is Bobby Hurley will be coaching there soon because Danny will get another job if he wants one. Will Monmouth reach out to him?Manhattan? Or will he just wait for an A10 or Big East job. I know it is early but you can see they will get it done at Wagner College.

I Have Something To say!

2011-01-08T11:50:00.001-05:00

Good Morning:

We will have an opportunity to watch many College Basketball games on TV over the weekend so I will have a lot to say on Monday. I Really want to see how Seton Hall University bounces back from the loss to Louisville last week. Will they compete harder? Will they execute better? Will the end result be favorable? When many of you read this you will already have the answers.

Also anxiously waiting to see St. Johns play against Notre Dame. That game will be a huge test for St. Johns and if they win it will be a tremendous momentum builder and something that could provide confidence as they compete the rest of the season.

Now I need to address a few people who I will not call by name. Seems they are attempting to compare what I do with bloggers and writers who earn significant money for talking about hoops and recruiting. Well, on one hand that is a compliment for anyone to even think I should be considered in the same sentence or breath as those who do it professionally. On the other hand to put my writing style down because I misspelled coaches names on previous blog posts is their right but I hardly think it has anything to do with the message I am delivering.

One poster in particular gets on me every time I write something, making it it seem as if I am writing in ebonics or a style no one can understand. Now there could be errors due to me doing these blogs quick enough to have time to do the things that actually pay the bills. But my blog posts seem far from as bad as some make them seem. But I will never tell a person I cannot be criticized or evaluated. I put it out there, so I have to take what comes with the territory. I really am not offended as much as I am surprised because I read Dick Young articles and blogs where he has misspelled names, and on occasion provided wrong information. Does that mean I do not enjoy what he writes? NO! But I am also no Dick Young and could only achieve what he has in my dreams, if writing was something I ever wanted to pursue. I read all the basketball stories in papers and on the internet and if I pointed out all the errors I see over a 6 month period it would fill up the centerfold of the New York Daily News. However, despite the mistakes, I enjoy reading the blogs and articles from each and every person writing about the game I love.

As far as me? I am really not a writer as many of you (especially that nice person who continues to find fault in how I write) Realize. Than again I never knew that I had to be close to perfect to express my opinion about basketball stuff on the internet for free in a way very few others will. Not just the bad writing or grammar! I am talking about saying it as I see it and not being concerned about coaches liking what I say or expressing my opinion. Heck I have even lost friends based on me talking about their teams. At least one head coach in the ACC, and one ex head coach in the BE stopped speaking to me and one had me on a short list of people his staff could not communicate with. Well, the one in the ACC was sorta a very good friend and the ex Big East Coach was a friend who I really liked. But anyone who knows me will tell you I call it as I see it and from what I have seen there is a lot of things wrong in the world of college basketball.

So lets go back to Seton Hall University. Lets also look at Rutgers during the prior 4 years. What is the common denominator? They both have/had the wrong staff make-up. Rutgers should have hired a few guys I know who wanted to work there. Those guys would have got it done on the teaching, coaching, and recruiting fronts. Instead the Head Coach hires people he was very comfortable with. Unfortunately they were not the correct people for Rutgers to be successful. Thus we saw the further decline of Rutgers. After all the coach prior to the last coach understood he made a mistake by not hiring a local guy and that was why Fred Hill was hired at the right time for Fred Hill. But I will not even talk about that.!

Now we have Seton Hall who is attempting to win with a talented but very inexperienced coaching staff that has to go against seasoned big time college basketball experts. Remember it is not just about the X and Os of the game. It is also about building and maintaining relationships. It is also about not forgetting who you were prior to your current position. I always say what comes around goes around and you never know who knows who! A good example is the many parents I know who currently have division 1 talented sons and daughters. So yes I think the Seton Hall Staff is talented. I Just feel they are in need of that barracuda of an assistant coach with s reputation of getting it done. And trust me, it is not all about facilities and academic tradition in the year 2011. Seton Hall should have snatched Wayne Morgan before he went to Hofstra as an assistant coach. He would have really get it done for them. And this is for SPK who I did take to dinner years ago but he forgot. Guys like Julius Allen, and Robert Holford could save a program as assistant coaches. Trust me these guys are 100 times better and more qualified than 75% of the assistants currently working but cannot get an opportunity.

And speaking of Hofstra I again turn to the Seton Hall poster who gets on me for spelling the name of the ex Hofstra and current Fordham Head Coach wrong. I guess it is more important to him than the person in question because that coach, who I know well has read my blog and has never complained. I am sure he would whether have me say good things about him and spell his name wrong, than say bad things and spell his name right.

Lastly, I again say I am not a professional writer and have never claimed to be a professional writer. If I worked for one of the magazines, The Newark Star Ledger, a scouting service paying me, or just receiving financial benefits, I would have a proof reader and an editor to make sure my blog was correct with names spelled right etc. Unfortunately this is a hobby I love, enjoy, and do because I have something to say that others often will not. So if my grammar, misspelled words, or anything else associated with my blog turns you off I understand you not reading it. In the meantime, I promise again to try to do a better job of proof reading between working from New Jersey to the Carolinas on projects that actually pay the bills. Maybe I can get an editor to volunteer lol.

I sincerely hope you folks understand it is just a blog and I also hope you are enjoying what you read even if you disagree with me. And for the person who always puts me down. I have re-done my prior blog post (notice I never say article). Still not perfect but hopefully not as bad as you described. Please read below:

Seton Hall

So some Seton Hall fans were confused about my last post? Ok than please look at the video of the game vs. Louisville. Like I said, the coaches at Seton Hall are not experienced YET to handle the BE. Why would the Head Coach even smile and joke with the opposing coach after a blowout loss? I do not care that it was his Mentor, the guy he worships, his God Father, or his 2nd Dad. Get your butt into the locker room and teach your team about competing! He should not even be talking to the Louisville staff until after the season. What is Seton Hall the Louisville JV Team? Please!

I really am not surprised that SHU lost big on the road to a traditional power team. What does surprise me is their lack of competiveness or as many coaches often say: getting after it! Guys on the Big East level should be playing hard and building towards the future every time they take the court.

As far as me saying they are a long way from getting it done at SHU, and than saying look for them to make a run? All I am saying is they will make a run and win games when Hazell returns. They still are under achieving and not competing hard. When will it get better? Seton Hall has to get it together and this needs to happen soon. Now here goes where folks become confused again. I still feel Coach Willard will be a good coach at Seton Hall. He just needs a seasoned staff to assist him. If he does not do this, he will have a hard HILL to climb in more ways than I am hinting.

Rutgers

Rutgers looks like a great choice for kids compared to its sister school at this time. Like comparing Carolina/Duke and Clemson.

Went back and forth between games and it seems to me that Coach Rice has his kids competing! Just imagine how good they will be with the young talent coming in. I was very impressed at how the Rutgers team went after Marquette and played so hard.

Though they lost the game, they competed until the end. No moral victory, but continued improvement that everyone can see.

HS Basketball

No one in New Jersey will beat St. Patrick’s high school of Elizabeth this season. No one! They are way too good, well coached, and talented for teams to even be close. They also just happen to have some of the best players I ever saw, who just decided to attend a school miles from their homes for the sake of it lol.

St. Anthony's, always the people’s choice, is rated 2 in the state of NJ. I feel a lot of teams can beat them and some will. Again, Bob Hurley must be so grateful regarding Myles Mack and Kyle Anderson. Funny after writing my last post I thought about St. Anthony's minus Mack and Anderson. They would still be a top school because the system is such a good one and the defense is always tremendous. But having two highly recruited transfers sure helps them win a lot of games.

Good to see the new Teaneck High School Boys basketball Team. What a talented group of non-recruited players very worthy of a high state ranking.

Getting ready to attend the Prime Time Shootout. Hey what happened? It's not at the Trenton Arena? Did they spread out and grow too soon? Does anyone care? Where is Bobby Jacobs when you need him?

Still missing the old Doc Turner HS Classic in Harlem NYC. Great event and very competitive!

More Basketball

2011-01-06T11:48:00.000-05:00

Seton Hall

So Seton Hall fans are confused about my last post. Ok than please look at the video of the game vs Louisville. Like I said the coaches at Seton Hall are not experienced YET to handle the BE. Why would the Head Coach even smile and joke with the opposing coach after a blowout loss? I do not care that it was his Mentor, or the guy he worships, or his God Father, or his 2nd Dad. Get your butt into the locker room and talk and teach your team about competing. He should not even be talking to the Louisville staff until after the season. What is Seton Hall? The Louisville JV Team? Please!

I really am not surprised that SHU lost big on the road to a traditional power team. I am more surprised that they did not compete! Sad is the way to put it. Guys should be playing hard and building towards the future.

As far as me saying they are a long way from getting it done at SHU and than saying look for them to make a run? All I am saying is they will make a run and win games when Hazell returns. They still are under achieving and not competing hard. When will it get better? Seton Hall has to get it together. Now here goes where folks become confused again. I think Willard will be a good coach at Seton Hall. He just needs a seasoned staff to assist him. If he does not do this, he will have a hard HILL to climb in more ways than I am hinting.

Rutgers

All I will say is Rutgers looks like a great choice for kids compared to its sister school at this time. Like comparing Carolina/Duke or attending Clemson.

Went back and forth between games and it seems to me that Coach Rice has his kids competing! Just imagine how good they will be with the young talent coming in. I was very impressed at how the Rutgers team went after Marquette and played so hard.

Though they lost the game, they competed until the end. no moral victory but continuos improvement.

HS Basketball

No one in New jersey will beat St. Patricks this season. No One! They are way too good, well coached, and talented. They also just happen to have some of the best players I ever saw who just decided to attend a school miles from their homes for the sake of it lol.

St. Anthony's, always the peoples choice is rated 2 in the state of NJ. I feel a lot of teams can beat them and some will. Again Hurley must be so grateful regarding Myles Mack and Kyle Anderson. Funny after writing my last post I thought about St. Anthony's minus Mack and Anderson. They would still be a top school because the system is such a good one and the defense is always tremendous. But having two highly recruited transfers sure helps them win a lot of games.

There are a lot of teams capable of beating St. Anthony's but no one should beat St. Patricks. No One!

Good to see the new Teaneck. Again very talented and worthy of their state ranking.

Getting ready to attend the Prime Time Shootout. Hey what happened? It's not at the Trenton Arena? Did they spread out and grow too soon? Does anyone care? Where is Bobby Jacobs when you need him?

Still missing the old Doc Turner HS Classic in Harlem NYC. Great event and very competitive!

Basketball Stuff

2011-01-04T09:56:00.000-05:00

It is Tuesday and a lot of basketball stuff to talk about. Lets start with our local "Big Time Teams." Yes we will talk about Hofstra, Fordham, etc. because they are doing better than expected. Of course those teams are not really the elite programs in the area but worthy of praise.

Our elite programs continue to be St. Johns, Seton Hall, and Rutgers.

Interesting watching St. Johns play with the Head Coach easily wearing a red tie symbolic of the St. Johns school colors. What a nice and easy thing to do! How one former local coach could go out of his way not to do this is mind boggling to say the least.

Well St. Johns seems to be back and The Garden was rocking for the game yesterday vs Georgetown. Of course we all know by now that St. Johns won the game and seems to be again the elite team in the NY metro area. The interesting thing is despite inconsistent play this season, they are currently undefeated in the Big East and gaining great momentum. It seems as if St. Johns will be hard to go against on the court as well in recruiting battles in the next few years.

Personally I love seeing the Garden rock! Nothing like the Garden for great games. I just look forward to the day when Seton Hall and Rutgers will be huge Garden games similar to the NC/Duke/NC State rivalries in the ACC.

Seton Hall has got to get it together and fast. Not just the team, and coaches, but the university itself. This is a great time to get the entire program in check from facilities to marketing and promotions. Develop the fan base nowise you grow with a very young and very inexperienced coaching staff for the BE level.

Honestly I still feel the staff in place at SHU is not capable of getting it done on the BE level at this time. I am not even sure it is as good as last seasons Rutgers staff. Not saying The Head Coach has to go, but he sure needs to evaluate the personnel working with him. Please do not take this as me saying the coaches are not good. I am only saying they are not experienced enough YET to get it done on that level. All of the Seton Hall Coaches have tremendous upside! EVERY SINGLE ONE! But Seton Hall needs results now because if they do not get them soon, they could become the Providence to UConn that exists in New England.

Game and talent wise missing Hazell has to hurt. Take away 20 points from any team and it would be devastating. When and if he comes back it could become interesting. I look for SHU to make a serious run to end with a winning record.

Looking at Rutgers all signs point to positive results in the next few years. However they seem to be getting great recruits on paper but I wonder if they will develop into bonfire outstanding BE players. One thing for sure is they will play hard, and get better under Mike Rice. And if they get that RAC fan base back it could mean many great year in Piscataway.

Speaking of the RAC I have to say how great it will be to see that building re-done and possibly re-configured. 9000 seats is all they need and I love the fact it could be a hard ticket to get. Remember they can always play a game or two at the Medowlands and MSG.

Back to some others. Looks as if Tom Picora could make Fordham a serious contender despite the old gym they try to market as a Palestra Type building lol. Fordham needs to understand they really need a new building seating around 8000. Again maybe the Bronx Boro President and NYC Council can build something together that Fordham can play games at.

Surprised Hofstra has done as well as they have after losing Coach Picora. But than again when I look at the staff at Hofstra, the Assistants, Wayne Morgan and Steve Demeo, are better than 75 percent to the BE Assistants. And both have OUTSTANDING NY and NJ connections.

Iona? All I can say is I heard the guy can coach!!! He sure is proving it!

Manhattan? Many folks are watching that situation closely.

Monmouth? See Manhattan

Delaware? See Monmouth

High School Basketball has been on my mind a lot. Just read where St. Benedicts is getting a very good point guard to transfer in to help them win some games. What is wrong with that picture? It is like they are calling up a kid from the minors to help out! Recruiting? Did the kid just go through a book of schools and decide Newark NJ is the place for him?

Honestly they might need more than that. How does a team with a number of division 1 prospects and signees even lose to a team like Scotch Plains on Sunday in a game at Teaneck HS as part of the Playaz Basketball program New Years Jump Off? Are you kidding me or did Derrick Character and Lance Thomas play under assumed identities? I have always been a fan of the coach at St. Benedict's and I am sure he will get it together. But bringing in a hired gun midway through is hardly the answer. Maybe it should start with committing to defense! or passing to the open man! Or how about competing!

Watched Hackensack HS, a true sleeping giant in NJ based on area talent, play Hudson Catholic which has a number of high rated younger players. Still remember the Hackensack coach as a tough little point guard. I hope he realizes the potential of his program and makes basketball a priority for his players year round.

Hudson Catholic did win the game and I was very impressed with a number of players especially Reggie Cameron, a 6 ft 8 inch versatile player with great ball and passing skills. And by the way he is a tremendous perimeter shooter. Only a Sophomore, his potential is great! Loved how he played the game! Hudson Catholic also has a very tough Sophomore guard in Kavon Stewart, who according to many is the top rated sophomore point guard in New Jersey.

Hackensack has tremendous youth also. Watch out for their superb freshmen Rashad Flaures (sp) who could be very special and might be one of best ever from Hackensack.

Same day saw St. Anthony's beat a decent Plainfield team with some pretty good big players but lacking guard play. Just too much Kyle Anderson and Myles Mack! Have to wonder where St. Anthony's would be if Patterson catholic did not close. Yes Bob Hurley has done great things in Jersey City and helped many kids over his career. So his blessing in what would be a down year is getting 2 instate high major transfers. A huge joke at the game was folks saying Hurley is so powerful he had Paterson Catholic closed down to get the two best players lol.

Well this St. Anthony's team like others b4 them will compete hard and play to the final buzzer. But it is far from being one of the best teams until they get the traditional St. Anthony's defense in gear.

Lastly on St. Anthony's. I love Kyle Anderson because he is like a pony still developing. I honestly feel he will be the greatest college player ever to attend St. Anthony's and unlike many others play a long time in the NBA! Again I say I can get 10 points at my age playing with him lol.

Myles Mack is a very good HS player. Based on size, and PG skills I saw, I am eager to see what he does at Rutgers. Seems like a great kid and he competes hard. I did see him make more plays than usual this day and that was quite encouraging.

Last game had two traditional powers go head to head. Teaneck vs Seton Hall Prep led by tremendous senior Sterling Gibbs who signed with The University of Maryland in the ACC. Well Teaneck has been up and down inn past years based on many kids in the town deciding to attend local Catholic Schools for a short period. Well, it seems like the kids have decided to now start staying home and what a difference this makes.

Teaneck totally demolished Seton Hall Prep in a game that was over after the first 8 minutes. This was a different Teaneck team than the one I saw at Seton Hall during the Hoop Group Event. The main reason is the coaches have gone back to the drawing board to teach defense and push for players to compete harder, I really like the Teaneck Staff. Just hope they embrace the local feeder biddy league and keep the pipeline running strong.

Teaneck might just have 4 or 5 Division 1 caliber players on the roster. 6 ft 10 JR. Neville Finches will be a super high major college player. All he does is run, dunk, pass, block shots, play hard, and win! This guy could be a stud! Funny story about this kid who is the reason I went to the games. I had heard about this kid from Jon Cano, who contributes to this blog. Had no idea who he was or who his parents were. I walk into the gym and his dad calls me and says I need to meet his son who loved the workouts we did with his older brother years ago. I laughed and asked who his son was. Up comes a grinning Neville Finches who just might be 6 ft 11! He reminded me about sitting and watching us work with kids. Good thing about this kid is his mom, dad, and brother understand he needs to work on things. And trust me, when he does, he will be very very very special!

Also like a kid named Shakir Lindsey, who Jim Solmon nicknamed little dynamite. Kid is super skilled and can shoot the lights out. When I found out who his family is, including NYC Playground legend and CCNY graduate Mike Richardson, I knew where the toughness came from! Kid is very good and playing for the right guy in Jerome Smart as is all the other kids. These kids will excel under Coach Smart. By the way Shakir Lindsey is only a sophomore.

Add Chris Jones to the D1 list. Only a junior but already around 6 ft 4 with guard skills. Just needs to compete harder and play tougher. Kid looks like typical Teaneck kid. Well groomed and a bit passive but very very talented! Trust me I know the look lol. This talented jr. is a definite D1 prospect for at least a mid major CAA program. He could be 6 ft 7 when it is all done.

Add to this list the older son of ex Iona player Tony Hargraves who will grow and is an important part of the team. Guy can really play but is accepting a lessor role for the good of the team. The toughest kid on the team is Joel Hernandez who can do it all as well. Tough defender, passes, shoots, and competes. This is a guy who will become the eventual leader of this team. I would not be surprised to see this sophomore become a super player in the next few seasons.

Now looking at the box scores you will not be impressed. But trust me this is the most talented Teaneck HS team in many years and they all are mainly underclassman. This year will be inconsistent at times. But next season, they might be top 3 in the state and compete for a Tournament of Champions Title! Out if state tournaments better call quick!

Monday Morning

2010-12-27T04:20:00.000-05:00

What a weekend in local College basketball! lets start with Seton Hall University. Never thought they would get off to such a bad start despite losing Hazell for the first part if not the entire season. Thought they had a good enough and tough enough point guard in Theodore, good players on the front line in Pope and Robinson, and very good young talent. Honestly I am not surprised, I am stunned! This team should never lose to Richmond or other similar teams. What player on Richmond was even recruited by a Big East Team?

Well here goes folks rolling eyes at me again and people hurling insults. But I have to be honest with my thoughts and feelings. Seton Hall, The Seton Hall Community, The Seton Hall Alums, and the Subway Seton Hall Fans deserve much better than they are receiving.

Lets start with the talent. I still say the talent is above average and capable of a post season tournament. Will it happen? Well it sure does not seem it will at this point. But anything can happen.

How about the coaches? I feel they have to take some of the blame because they have not done the job YET! I say yet because they can still get it together. But what are they really capable of doing? Are they the right guys for this job? Honestly I love the loyalty Willard showed with his hires. He also wanted folks he felt he could trust and that is understandable. But to bring a mid level MAAC staff to a Big program in a major media market was shocking. At least Willard's Dad could have provided necessary stability and insight! But what is in place at SHU is a result of SHU not being committed to competing at the highest level basketball wise.

I and no one should be blaming Willard for anything except not putting together a better staff. Sorry, just my opinion! But SHU and the head folks are the ones who let this proud program down. Why play in a state of the art building that seats over 18,000 with no higher attendance expectations than 10,000 a game. They should be pissed at the number and looking for a marketing team to fill the arena up. Why settle for a coach at salary they offered when they needed a media darling with outstanding skills to take over this program. This SHU program had all the ingredients that a very good hire could have turned into a true NCAA contender. Good guard play, plus athletic and skilled front court guys, plus heart, could just be the correct formula once you add very good and experienced coaching and motivation.

So the staff is what it is, and the arena is where it is, and the talent level is what it is and I doubt it will be better after this season, so what is next? I will wait until halfway through the BE season before actually saying what I feel needs to happen although I know what will definitely happen one way or another!

Rutgers is doing a much better job than folks thought they would. Recruits are interested and committing although I am not convinced some are real program changers are good program maintainers if you know what I mean. From what I have seen it will still be about development at Rutgers and I feel Mike Rice and his Staff will develop those players and by the 2012 season we will see a totally different Rutgers program.

Now I still feel they are not getting it done administration wise. Where are the plans for the practice facility? Where are the REAL plans for the RAC renovation project? When will it actually start? Who do they have in place marketing wise to start getting fans out. This team has only lost 2 games and could actually be undefeated at this time, though the schedule thus far is far from a real competitive one.

Looking forward to the North Carolina game this week. I honestly feel Rice will have them playing hard enough to steal the game or at the least be very competitive. In fact I will be stunned to see this team, despite the lack of fire power, be blown out against anyone.

Looking at St. Johns I see they only have 3 losses. Not bad but I expected them to have zero loses at this time with a veteran team back. The losses are to St. Mary's, St. Bonaventure, and Fordham. All three were winnable games and the Red Storm should be undefeated at this point.

Well now it is almost time for the Big East Season to kick in. Games against the top teams should be competitive and they should be able to handle the local challenges. If this SJU team does not make it to a post season invite, it should be considered a bad season in Jamaica Estates.

Attendance wise, something I always look at, they seem to be where they were last season. Thought the on campus arena would average at least 5000 a game if not sell out for the season. At this point games at MSG might just be similar to past years. And boy do many of us hunger for the days when SJU packed the Garden and proved college basketball could sell in NBA cities.

Saw St. Patricks play on TV the other day and finally caught Michael Gilchrist in action. Well, I was really impressed with him and the entire roster of future scholarship athletes. I now see what everyone means by him not excelling in one on one all-star type games. In a team setting he is OUTSTANDING! Playing with others trying to gain reps, he might look a bit lost based on the selfish play of others.

Would love to see a charity double header at Rutgers, The Pru Center, or Medowlands involving St. Anthony's, St. Benedict's, St. Patrick's, another Private/Catholic School and 4 of the top Public Schools in NJ in a 3 day tournament for charity. The New Jersey Challenge! Wow.

Or maybe the 4 best from NYC and NJ in a tournament. Not a showcase, a tournament! Where is Bobby Jacobs when we need him? lol

Lastly on a sad note it is so unfortunate that Jeremy Hazel was shot in the arm while visiting home for the holidays. What are we doing about this violence and how can we prepare our youngsters to be aware of the hate and opportunistic folks looking to get to them. Person might have just been jealous of who hazel is and what he has accomplished thus far.

College Basketball.......Wow!

2010-12-23T09:21:00.000-05:00

Looking at box scores from last night shows either parity is really here or some teams are just under achieving. Lets look at some scores that stand out:

Siena over Georgia Tech

Citadel over University of South Carolina

Dayton over Seton Hall

Those 3 scores were not part of the plan when those games were scheduled. They were supposed to be easy wins and nothing else. Now those games become extremely hurtful in the eyes of fans and the NCAA if there was a post season option on the table.

At Georgia Tech everyone must be confused from the Administration and Coaches to the fans and players. Everyone knows Paul Hewitt is a very good coach, but what is going wrong down there with the close games and loses to teams they should be destroying? I for one think the one and done has done that program in. If Paul Hewitt can get some 4 star and even 3 star players and they stay for 4 years, watch out! he is at his best with players he has a chance to develop. These one and done or even guys already with advisors looking at the NBA are very hard to coach or jell as a team. heck even Kentucky with 5 first round NBA draft choices did not win an NCAA Championship. Hope Paul Hewitt gets another year to right this sinking ship that is in a major media market and very important to the status of the Atlantic Coast Conference.

The Citadel beats The University of South Carolina or was that South Carolina State? I would understand if it was South Carolina State. But from the box it says South Carolina! Maybe I need to check it again. However if it is South carolina there are a lot of folks very upset inColumbia South Carolina today. None of he South Carolina schools are supposed to be The major University except Clemson on occasion. What a Horrible loss! People are thinking about all the money spent on that great arena, practice facilities, fan support, etc.

Dayton comes to New Jersey and beats a Seton Hall Team that has TALENT! Come on what is going on here? They returned some very good players who should be able to hold it down until Hazell returns from his injury. I mean they have really good talent and it makes no sense losing at home to Dayton. At Dayton I could better understand because that is a great A10 Program with a cult like following. They sell out that arena and when folks pass, the tickets are willed to family members. Just a great program! Makes me wonder if I was a player rated 4 stars would I choose such a program over places like SHU, St. Johns, Rutgers, Providence, And South Florida? On another note when will SHU wake up and get a true marketing firm to see tickets to the games. How do you not have 8000 season tickets sold with all the businesses in the greater Newark area? Seton Hall needs major assistance! Coaching wise? Please do not start me. From recruiting on down there seems to be a serious void. Willard might be a premier coach one day soon, but he has a long climb to get there. Big question is what would be the case if Bobby Gonzales was still the coach? ummmmmm! Just wondering!

It is about that time where coaches at schools start looking at what jobs might just become available. And boy have I heard some interesting stuff including jobs in BE, ACC, A10, SEC, Colonial, MAAC, and even the Northeast Conference. Speaking of the Northeast Conference there is a lot of interest in Monmouth! Folks are eagerly watching that sleeping mid major giant. Ditto The University of Delaware! Maybe Mike Brey will say the heck with this and go back to the Blue hens! I doubt that but Delaware has all the tools to be a major mid major power! Just a great place! I do hope Monte Ross will get it together because he is qualified. But the way it is going he makes folks hungry for a return of David Henderson who believe it or not is an OUTSTANDING TEACHER and COACH. Just did not have the public relation skills needed to follow a great PR guy like Mike Brey.

I wonder along with many others what will happen in Atlanta. No not with the housewives, although I would like to know that as well. but with the basketball program at Georgia Tech. According to many friends down there, folks want change but those who know the game only want Paul Hewitt to recruit more 4 year players to give the program experience for the 1 or 2 early NBA entrees they tend to get often. And even Stevie Wonder knows Paul Hewitt can flat out coach! but again, they are getting very restless in Atlanta!

High School Basketball

Planning on getting around this season to see many HS basketball games. If you know of some good ones anywhere between NYC and Myrtle Beach SC please email me at LFBall@aol.com. In the meantime I will be in NY, NJ, and Pa. checking out games and players. I promise to kept real and tell it as I see it. After all, there are a lot of over hyped and over rated kids as well as many more under rated and under hyped players out there. My job? Find them!

Everyone please watch out for Trinity catholic in Connecticut. Just enrolled is a huge 7 ft 4 Freshmen from Africa with skills and the ability to run the court. I am sure UConn is already there. Kid lives in Portchester NY, which is close to Stanford Connecticut, with legal guardian. And guess what? his 13 year old brother is coming next year and he is already 7 ft 2!

Well over and out. See you at a game near you!

HS and College Basketball

2010-12-22T13:01:00.000-05:00

Greetings fellow basketball junkies! It is a pleasure to again be able to find time to give my thoughts on the sport we all love so much. But before getting into stuff that will again have coaches and fans rolling their eyes at me, let me do an official shout out to all those scouting services who consistently get out to games all over the country covering games.

People such as Jay Gomes of NJHoops, Chuck Meeger, Ed Butler (Saw you Ed but you were busy as usual) Robert "Rebel" Boyd who pisses folks off because he tells it like it is and loves helping all the kids, Steve who has helped hundreds of kids over he years, and all the others who are grinding all season getting information out to colleges and fans. We all know the Tom Konchalski (sp) and Bob Gibbons type guys and they too are very much appreciated, but the other group does it year in and year out with very few folks actually knowing them.

Now many who have followed my thoughts know I have been hard on certain services over the years based on them not actually understanding talent or ever playing or coaching the game. But after all these years they must know something by now and based on what I see, they really are doing a great job identifying talented players. So a special shout out to all of them!

Went to see the games at Seton Hall last Sunday and was somewhat but not overly impressed with what I saw. Interesting to see a video camera pointed at the court in the SHU basketball offices above the gym. Not sure if it was taping games or there for practices. But interesting nonetheless!

St Anthony's vs Gil St. Bernard's School

Legendary Coach Bob Hurley vs New Coach Mergin Sina! It was a pretty good game throughout but their was no answer for 6 ft 8 Jr. Kyle Anderson! He is so good he looks bored on the court. He was like a giant playing with ants. He could do a;most anything he wished to do. Inside or outside, he did it effortlessly. I still think if he was 6 ft 2 he would still be a top level player. He was joined by a very stretched 5 ft 10 Sr. Myles Mack who has a long way to go to become a good Big East Player! Sorry, it is just how I feel! He does not pressure the ball, does not seem like a pest on the court or a good on the ball defender which he needs to be at his height, and looks to score more than he looks to make plays. Remember this is based on the few times I have seen him play. Division 1? Yes!!! Not convinced he is a Big east Type yet!

Now the Guard that really impressed me was a stretched 6 ft. Soph. named Jaren Sina of Gil St. Bernards. Yes the coaches son! Remember the coach is every bit of 6 ft 6 or 6 ft 7 so this kid will have a growth spurt. But even if he does not, what a future he has in front of him. Kid smiled entire game and is way better than I ever imagined. He had Coach Mike Rice of Rutgers following his every move from a court side seat. You could tell he was very impressed. Also impressive was 5 ft 10 Alex Mitola who someone needs to recruit soon! He would be great in the Ivy, Colonial, MAAC. or Northeast conferences. Also keep an eye on 6 ft 7 Dominic Hoffman who is also a Jr. They also have a 6 ft 8 transfer who will be eligible in 30 days and I hear he is pretty good. They might just be the team to beat in 2011-2012.

Interesting watching Coach Hurley lead his team to victory. Not an impressive bunch as in years past and judging by how calm Coach Hurley was, he understands the makeup and how he has to be more patient than ever before. This did not seem like the demanding Hurley. More like a nurturing Hurley who understands this will take time. Big question is if Paterson Catholic had stayed open, would they have beat St. Anthony's based on the current 2 best players would be in Paterson.

Teaneck vs Linden

New Coach Jerome Smart vs Almost legendary Phil Colicchio

This is game I really wanted to see. The new Teaneck HS Program under 1st year coach Jerome Smart. The word was Teaneck had beaten a lot of great programs in fall league ball. They looked great in warmups and thats when it all stopped.

Despite very good coaching including ex Paterson Catholic Head Coach Damon Wright, this team looked like the softest Teaneck team in the past 30 years. They also seemed not to play hard until the 4th quarter. I had heard Teaneck had at least 3 D1 prospects. On this day I did not see 1 D2 prospect on the team. Yes the uniforms were nice, warmups great. and the kids looked impressive until the whistle blew to start the game. It was all down hill. One bright spot in the loss was Soph Shakir Lindsey who put on quite a show. Others do not deserve a mention.

For Linden it was all about Prigley Mallory and Rodney Sanders who controlled stuff along with the guards who all understood roles. Bad loss for Teaneck who went on and lost to a Hackensack Team on Tuesday with a new coach. Not a good day in the neighborhood for Teaneck!

St. Benedict's Prep vs St. Raymonds

Two good coaches and a lot of good talent. Some feel St. Raymonds might be the 2nd best team in NYC after Christ the King.

St. Benedicts had new coach Rashown McCleod who will do a great job at the Newark Based school. Talent galore in many of the players. Loved Vaughn Grey who might have chosen his college a bit too soon. He was clearly the best guard I saw at Seton Hall all day. In fact Rutgers and SHU will be upset about not recruiting him. I liked him much more than I like Myles Mack! I just wonder if he will stay with George Mason of the CAA over getting out and going to a big east type program? Ummmmmmmmmmm. Wherever he goes they will get a solid players and a solid citizen!

Glad to see St. Benedicts and Coach McCleod smart enough to embrace Brian Crawford as an Assistant Coach. Might be most important pickup for Coach McCleod for next 4 years based on Brian Crawfords expertise and connections. This will payoff huge! Loved Tyler Harris who will be a special player in college. His future is very bright and if you watch closely you will agree he will be better in college than in HS. And he is BIG! Got to be 6 ft 9 when it is all done. A great get for NC State!

For St. Raymonds it was a pleasure watching Jr. Daniel Dingle play. He is a Jr. who will choose the right school and be an impact college player. And yes he can play! Just another Dingle at St. Raymonds sent there by his Dad. This guy will be a high level recruit next year. Trust me on this! Joining him upfront was Nkereuwem Okoro who is as talented as Dingle. Another Jr. who will have The Parkchester section of the Bronx hopping with college coaches this and next year.

Did not watch the Seton Hall Prep vs Columbia game but was surprised to see Columbia won by a significant margin. Did meet the family of a player named Dallas Anglin and they were very impressive as a family. Nice to see that type of support on the HS level.

College Basketball

Nice to see John Morton at the games on sunday. What a classy guy who should be welcomed into every living room in America. I am stunned SHU did not attempt to get him back. He told me Fordham was doing well and said when they beat SJU grown men cried. Glad John is doing well and I am sure he will be a tremendous Head Coach in the near future.

St. Johns will be better next season just not sure if they will be the NCAA team everyone predicts they will be. Losing to teams they have lost to is not a good sign for this once powerful program. But folks must be patient. And so must the SJU coaching staff. I guess it is time to actually buy that home Coach Lavin because you might just be around for a while.

Also want everyone to know I am and always will be a fan of both Tony Chiles and Mo Hicks. I do not know other SJU coaches but those two guys are folks anyone would trust with their sons. Both are Class with a capital C.

Rutgers will steal some games this season. Bank on it! Coach Rice seemed very approachable at the games. Not sure he was sincere but nonetheless seemed like a nice person.

Kansas State suspends players? Wow! Does anyone believe hanky panicky takes place there? Come on not at Kansas State with boosters and clothes! Is has to be a misunderstanding!