Well it is almost time to say goodbye to the areas seniors who have performed for local teams. From Rider to Iona to Rutgers, Seton Hall, and St. Johns, this has been an interesting season to say the least.
Hopefully folks will have decent thoughts about the graduating players after they take their uniforms off for the last time. Remember these kids committed to your school when they had other options regardless of those offers being D1, D2, or D3.
Wonder what are the thoughts these players will leave with? Will they be lifetime supporters of the school they played for? Will they become recruitment ambassadors? Will they hate on the experience and let everyone know? What will they do after the last game? In recruitment the worst nightmare for a Head Coach is a dissatisfied group of ex players and advisors. And remember, what goes around comes around. So sooner or later paths will cross in a living room, over a telephone conversation, or in a discussion about good ole university.
Program wise each area school needs to be in a positive position to get future players who will make a difference. When Tommy Ameker mismanaged his players at SHU, it impacted his recruitment tremendously. And he had no transfers I can think of. Just a bunch of under achieving players who he treated well based on who each player was. He kissed up to his super incoming class and forgot the returning players. He never recovered and ran, not walked, to Michigan because he saw the writing on the wall. Needless to say he is now at Harvard.
At Rutgers I see similar things happening. No sense in repeating what has been said for a long time regarding player management, etc. In fact the Rutgers Record, though important, could be secondary to other happenings in Piscataway. See St. Johns and Fran Frachillo as a reference. If you see massive transfers, under performing players who have gone from good (not great) to bad over a period of time, and a look of fear on faces, it is something that needs to be examined. No the players do not get a pass for playing soft!!! Because they have done just this! But the Coaches need to check themselves as well and how they have managed the RU Program. Sorry, that is how I see it.
Transfers? If anyone actually believes Corey Chandler in not seriously considering transferring they are crazy. Even without the recent problem, he had to see the recruitment of a super JC PG as folks have written, as being a nail in his coffin as a starter at RU because Like I have said, Rosario will start at the two even if Steph Curry and Tyreke Evans transferred to RU. Plus the look over your shoulder situation had to be too much on him and has definitely impacted on how he performed! So yes Corey said nice things and apologized to his coaches and teammates, but the beat still goes on and I would bet a dollar to a nickel he has already had his REAL advisors make some calls to schools that would fit Corey's style. Use your imagination and you will come up with the same potential list I can see him contacting.
Is Corey the only one considering leaving Rutgers? I have heard rumors that other players are also considering leaving. And no I am not talking about Rosario and Enchenique. Why would they leave a place where they really have and get all they need regardless of output. But others are seriously thinking transfer. I have heard this for a long time. One might not be able to leave, but others I feel really will see what is out there before making a decision. And if Corey stays at RU, it will be good to keep a player like him, but I would be stunned.
Every school will have kids transfer. It is a popular thing to do when you feel your playing time will decrease or you are not being treated fairly. Happens all the time. But too many sends a serious message which is why coaches work so hard to keep even role players from leaving. It impacts recruiting and program stability.
Lastly I feel, and again I am not an expert, that teaching, bench coaching, and execution is very important in college and HS basketball, but program and player management is what separates basketball programs from basketball teams.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
St. Johns, Seton Hall, and Rutgers
St. Johns
What more can I say except they seem to be really on the right track even if they lose remaining games this season and in BE Tournament. They seem to be competing well and gaining alot of confidence.
With that said I say again to Lance Stephenson, STAY HOME and be part of something very special. Help SJU return to the glory years and sell out crowds at Madison Square Garden. I can hear them chanting your name already from the rafters. All your friends from Brooklyn, your Parents and family, HS teammates, and your fans who have watched and defended you for years will be there to provide the positive vibes necessary to take you to the next level. St. Johns needs you but more important you need St. Johns because they will provide you with a showcase and showplace no one else can. Plus, everyone wants to play NYC and Broadway. Why play in a B Market when you can stay home and play in an A market! Blair stayed home to attend Pitt! The Syracuse kids stayed home! And so did players like Mullins, Berry, Jackson, and others and the last time I looked all have done extremely well financially even after basketball.
Seton Hall
Was across the street from the SHU campus yesterday at a recording studio with some very well known recording artists working on a project. Could not help from driving on the campus when I left to re-acquaint myself to what the school has to offer facility wise. Honestly this is the perfect school for a great player not seeking to be caught up in large numbers like they have at mega universities. The campus was very nice and it looks larger than the last time I was there and took time to really look around. That was when PJ was there and I had a nice meeting with him concerning a player named Sally or Salley. Could someone please post the HS he attended. I know his dad lived in NE Pa. but the son played for the late great Doc Necelli and the Madison Square Bronco's.
Again I say that campus will be alive next season. Just hope folks are ready for alot of attention and publicity!
Rutgers
Rutgers loses to a very good Syracuse team. Now all I will say is the following:
Mike Rosario took 21 shots and made 6
Next highest shot total was 7 by Farmer
Chandler played 5 Minutes (Is a message being sent here?)
Enchenique scores 2 points and gets 4 boards (nice kid but why so many accolades?)
Rebounding totals were close to even
Turn Overs even
Assists were far apart. 8 for RU and 19 for Syracuse
I am sure the coaching staff at RU has looked at film all night after this loss. Not really interested in knocking the RU staff but I will again say this team was loss when the keys to the ship were turned over to two nice kids at the start of the season as the upperclassmen watched as hey were handled with kid gloves and they were forced to play a certain way or sit down. Those kids never recovered. I do think the RU Players have shown no heart or pride. But that to me is something I expect when kids are just not hungry. If folks really understood the backgrounds of Harris and Flynn, they would understand why they are so tough and dedicated to competing every game.
Next year at Rutgers could be similar at best! If folks think the new players will provide what is needed to get out of the cellar of the BE they are incorrect. What will do this is a GREAT IMPROVEMENT from Rosario, Enchenique (He needs much more than folks realize), a free to play Chandler, and other team members. They need a chemistry that I last saw at Providence under Rick Pitino when Billy Donovan went from a dough boy to a basketball player. But most of all they need FHJ and his coaches to really step it up with the players development wise, mentally, and during games. This can happen and if it does we will see a better RU. But trust me it is far from being about who will come in next season. Everyone in the BE will get new talent and alot of them are getting better players than Rutgers.
Well March Madness is here and it is my favorite time of the year. I still feel UConn will win the Big East but North Carolina will win the National Championship.
What more can I say except they seem to be really on the right track even if they lose remaining games this season and in BE Tournament. They seem to be competing well and gaining alot of confidence.
With that said I say again to Lance Stephenson, STAY HOME and be part of something very special. Help SJU return to the glory years and sell out crowds at Madison Square Garden. I can hear them chanting your name already from the rafters. All your friends from Brooklyn, your Parents and family, HS teammates, and your fans who have watched and defended you for years will be there to provide the positive vibes necessary to take you to the next level. St. Johns needs you but more important you need St. Johns because they will provide you with a showcase and showplace no one else can. Plus, everyone wants to play NYC and Broadway. Why play in a B Market when you can stay home and play in an A market! Blair stayed home to attend Pitt! The Syracuse kids stayed home! And so did players like Mullins, Berry, Jackson, and others and the last time I looked all have done extremely well financially even after basketball.
Seton Hall
Was across the street from the SHU campus yesterday at a recording studio with some very well known recording artists working on a project. Could not help from driving on the campus when I left to re-acquaint myself to what the school has to offer facility wise. Honestly this is the perfect school for a great player not seeking to be caught up in large numbers like they have at mega universities. The campus was very nice and it looks larger than the last time I was there and took time to really look around. That was when PJ was there and I had a nice meeting with him concerning a player named Sally or Salley. Could someone please post the HS he attended. I know his dad lived in NE Pa. but the son played for the late great Doc Necelli and the Madison Square Bronco's.
Again I say that campus will be alive next season. Just hope folks are ready for alot of attention and publicity!
Rutgers
Rutgers loses to a very good Syracuse team. Now all I will say is the following:
Mike Rosario took 21 shots and made 6
Next highest shot total was 7 by Farmer
Chandler played 5 Minutes (Is a message being sent here?)
Enchenique scores 2 points and gets 4 boards (nice kid but why so many accolades?)
Rebounding totals were close to even
Turn Overs even
Assists were far apart. 8 for RU and 19 for Syracuse
I am sure the coaching staff at RU has looked at film all night after this loss. Not really interested in knocking the RU staff but I will again say this team was loss when the keys to the ship were turned over to two nice kids at the start of the season as the upperclassmen watched as hey were handled with kid gloves and they were forced to play a certain way or sit down. Those kids never recovered. I do think the RU Players have shown no heart or pride. But that to me is something I expect when kids are just not hungry. If folks really understood the backgrounds of Harris and Flynn, they would understand why they are so tough and dedicated to competing every game.
Next year at Rutgers could be similar at best! If folks think the new players will provide what is needed to get out of the cellar of the BE they are incorrect. What will do this is a GREAT IMPROVEMENT from Rosario, Enchenique (He needs much more than folks realize), a free to play Chandler, and other team members. They need a chemistry that I last saw at Providence under Rick Pitino when Billy Donovan went from a dough boy to a basketball player. But most of all they need FHJ and his coaches to really step it up with the players development wise, mentally, and during games. This can happen and if it does we will see a better RU. But trust me it is far from being about who will come in next season. Everyone in the BE will get new talent and alot of them are getting better players than Rutgers.
Well March Madness is here and it is my favorite time of the year. I still feel UConn will win the Big East but North Carolina will win the National Championship.
Monday, March 2, 2009
I Am Back
Its been a while since I have put anything on this blog. Unfortunately I have had nothing to really say because area basketball has been a disappointment recently. Sure Seton Hall and St. Johns are doing some decent things but the Rutgers situation is so depressing to me. And again I am not smart enough to be a RU Alum so I am not a RU fan. But I am a fan of area basketball and a definite supporter of JR Inman, who if folks remember plays for Rutgers as the 9th man after being the leading scorer the past few seasons as a starter.
Lets start again by briefly talking about Rutgers. What a mess! What will happen to change it next season? Will it change? Well for this to happen Mike Rosario and Corey Chandler will have to be the true change agents. Unfortunately I am sorry to say the kids coming in and the present players are what you see is what you get type players. In other words just average. Greg Enchinique had one of the greatest games we have seen from a Rutgers freshmen against Providence. Maybe he could develop into a 12 point and 10 rebound guy next season. But the future is in the guards. And because if that, Corey Chandler needs to get to a true PG training facility because that is his future as long as Mike Hill-Rosario is on campus. Mike will be the starting 2 guard until he leaves Rutgers.
Sad again watching JR Inman playing and sitting this game. Such a nice kid who has just accepted his role of a 12 minute a game person. I guess Fred Hill showed him and all of us that believe in JR who is the real man!
I would like to spend a minute talking about Mike Rosario. After reading that great newspaper story on him I now know why he is and will always be successful. The kid has been in love with basketball most of his life. He looks at the game as a privilege to play and approaches each game thankful for the opportunity. I always say some kids have too much meat in the refrigerator and never are hungry enough to take their game to the next level. This kid understands this and is fighting his ass off to become better. I feel the same way about Corey Chandler and his approach. Once he gets his head right with the coaching staff and stop looking over his shoulder he will give Rutgers a serious 2nd BC option. Both could be special. Very Special. That is if Corey does not transfer to a MAAC or Patriot School........Just kidding! If he transfers it will be to the Big 10, ACC, or at the least A10. I know personally some coaches are eagerly watching this situation play out. A poster named NJ4Life can confirm the many schools who are drooling about this.
The new AD at Rutgers makes me think Men's basketball will be the 3rd team on the totem pole after Football, and Womens's Basketball. Guy seems like a football guy who will ask other's about basketball. Maybe he needs to speak with Stevie Wonder because even he can see the Men's basketball program needs more than band aids. Time will tell. Hopefully this new AD has some understanding about College Basketball.
Seton Hall still looks post season bound if you ask me. But again just think of where they could be next season. They might be so good even red sweaters will be visible at SHU home games and the opposing team will not be from NJ or NY.
Now I honestly feel this Jarid Famous kid everyone is now after will attend Seton Hall. Again I say if he does not, his folks have done the best con job in the history of college recruiting. Folks should send his folks a bill for the great treatment they have received. After all I am sure they would be able to handle it. Is he a program changer? Not sure but he can play and will be helpful to any program he signs with. I know Missouri is really going all out. UConn now wants him because they just love stockpiling good players for practice. St. Johns is a good option as well but I am not sure how hard they are going after him. Again I say go where you are loved and not where you are only wanted. Funny how I now hear HS stars saying the same exact thing.
To me the big thing for SHU to do in the off season is plan ways to increase season ticket holders to a point they can move the curtain up a notch to make the sell out number 12-13,000. This is possible, especially with the toughness, talent, and personalities of the players and coaches. If SHU starts getting 13,000 plus they will be in the mix for many top 30-50 players and a true household name on the summer circuit. It Can Be Done!
As I have mentioned in the past, St. Johns is improving and rapidly sneaking back into the picture as an area power regarding recruits. If Lance Stephenson signs with St. Johns, and I am sure SJU is all over this, SJU now improves its image and attracts great crowds at MSG. Also Alumni Hall again sells out every game on campus, NYC returns to the glory years, and the Garden again becomes the place to be for College basketball. Come on Lance make it happen! I know you read this blog on occasion and I am telling you that you belong on Broadway, well at least close to Broadway lol. Lance with the current SJU players and recruits would be dangerous!!
Lance we know Maryland wants you to follow in the footsteps of Albert King and be the next NYC superstar to attend school in College Park. Great place and I am sure they will treat you well. But there is nothing like home cooked meals, playing at the Garden, being able to eat a Nathan's hotdog when you wish, having your support network at games, having every NBA scout watch you perform, going to a school where you will be an impact guy from day 1, and lastly becoming a true home-town hero leading SJU back to the NCAA tournament. Watch out SHU, if Lance attends SJU the battle for area players and media coverage will be huge.
This brings me back to Rutgers. Where will they fit into this puzzle? The only State supported school of the 3, they should have a similar outlook. Hopefully Mike Rosario, Corey Chandler, Greg Enchique, and a recruited JC PG can help. But when you do a comparison, it looks like a hard hill to climb. The new AD has as much work to do as the coaching staff.
Hats off to my old town Teaneck. Coach March and his team made a grown man cry. Yes I cried when they won the Bergen County Jamboree. This was the first time My son has watched Teaneck since he played there years ago. He also felt great about the win.
Not sure if Coach March will retire, but if he does I HOPE THEY GIVE THE JOB TO YOUNG KELVIN REECE who did a great job coaching the team to the championship and is an outstanding young man! Great to see the men of Teaneck and Englewood out supporting the kids. Herman Snyder, Billy Gilbert, Jose Hernandez and his sons Christian and Giovanni, Jon Cano, Zach Husser, James Brown, Curtis Caveness, Kelvin's dad Mr. Reece, Coach Mac the ex Englewood Coach, and many others. These guys have done so much for area youth that it would take 10 pages to describe.
Until Next Time!!!!
Lets start again by briefly talking about Rutgers. What a mess! What will happen to change it next season? Will it change? Well for this to happen Mike Rosario and Corey Chandler will have to be the true change agents. Unfortunately I am sorry to say the kids coming in and the present players are what you see is what you get type players. In other words just average. Greg Enchinique had one of the greatest games we have seen from a Rutgers freshmen against Providence. Maybe he could develop into a 12 point and 10 rebound guy next season. But the future is in the guards. And because if that, Corey Chandler needs to get to a true PG training facility because that is his future as long as Mike Hill-Rosario is on campus. Mike will be the starting 2 guard until he leaves Rutgers.
Sad again watching JR Inman playing and sitting this game. Such a nice kid who has just accepted his role of a 12 minute a game person. I guess Fred Hill showed him and all of us that believe in JR who is the real man!
I would like to spend a minute talking about Mike Rosario. After reading that great newspaper story on him I now know why he is and will always be successful. The kid has been in love with basketball most of his life. He looks at the game as a privilege to play and approaches each game thankful for the opportunity. I always say some kids have too much meat in the refrigerator and never are hungry enough to take their game to the next level. This kid understands this and is fighting his ass off to become better. I feel the same way about Corey Chandler and his approach. Once he gets his head right with the coaching staff and stop looking over his shoulder he will give Rutgers a serious 2nd BC option. Both could be special. Very Special. That is if Corey does not transfer to a MAAC or Patriot School........Just kidding! If he transfers it will be to the Big 10, ACC, or at the least A10. I know personally some coaches are eagerly watching this situation play out. A poster named NJ4Life can confirm the many schools who are drooling about this.
The new AD at Rutgers makes me think Men's basketball will be the 3rd team on the totem pole after Football, and Womens's Basketball. Guy seems like a football guy who will ask other's about basketball. Maybe he needs to speak with Stevie Wonder because even he can see the Men's basketball program needs more than band aids. Time will tell. Hopefully this new AD has some understanding about College Basketball.
Seton Hall still looks post season bound if you ask me. But again just think of where they could be next season. They might be so good even red sweaters will be visible at SHU home games and the opposing team will not be from NJ or NY.
Now I honestly feel this Jarid Famous kid everyone is now after will attend Seton Hall. Again I say if he does not, his folks have done the best con job in the history of college recruiting. Folks should send his folks a bill for the great treatment they have received. After all I am sure they would be able to handle it. Is he a program changer? Not sure but he can play and will be helpful to any program he signs with. I know Missouri is really going all out. UConn now wants him because they just love stockpiling good players for practice. St. Johns is a good option as well but I am not sure how hard they are going after him. Again I say go where you are loved and not where you are only wanted. Funny how I now hear HS stars saying the same exact thing.
To me the big thing for SHU to do in the off season is plan ways to increase season ticket holders to a point they can move the curtain up a notch to make the sell out number 12-13,000. This is possible, especially with the toughness, talent, and personalities of the players and coaches. If SHU starts getting 13,000 plus they will be in the mix for many top 30-50 players and a true household name on the summer circuit. It Can Be Done!
As I have mentioned in the past, St. Johns is improving and rapidly sneaking back into the picture as an area power regarding recruits. If Lance Stephenson signs with St. Johns, and I am sure SJU is all over this, SJU now improves its image and attracts great crowds at MSG. Also Alumni Hall again sells out every game on campus, NYC returns to the glory years, and the Garden again becomes the place to be for College basketball. Come on Lance make it happen! I know you read this blog on occasion and I am telling you that you belong on Broadway, well at least close to Broadway lol. Lance with the current SJU players and recruits would be dangerous!!
Lance we know Maryland wants you to follow in the footsteps of Albert King and be the next NYC superstar to attend school in College Park. Great place and I am sure they will treat you well. But there is nothing like home cooked meals, playing at the Garden, being able to eat a Nathan's hotdog when you wish, having your support network at games, having every NBA scout watch you perform, going to a school where you will be an impact guy from day 1, and lastly becoming a true home-town hero leading SJU back to the NCAA tournament. Watch out SHU, if Lance attends SJU the battle for area players and media coverage will be huge.
This brings me back to Rutgers. Where will they fit into this puzzle? The only State supported school of the 3, they should have a similar outlook. Hopefully Mike Rosario, Corey Chandler, Greg Enchique, and a recruited JC PG can help. But when you do a comparison, it looks like a hard hill to climb. The new AD has as much work to do as the coaching staff.
Hats off to my old town Teaneck. Coach March and his team made a grown man cry. Yes I cried when they won the Bergen County Jamboree. This was the first time My son has watched Teaneck since he played there years ago. He also felt great about the win.
Not sure if Coach March will retire, but if he does I HOPE THEY GIVE THE JOB TO YOUNG KELVIN REECE who did a great job coaching the team to the championship and is an outstanding young man! Great to see the men of Teaneck and Englewood out supporting the kids. Herman Snyder, Billy Gilbert, Jose Hernandez and his sons Christian and Giovanni, Jon Cano, Zach Husser, James Brown, Curtis Caveness, Kelvin's dad Mr. Reece, Coach Mac the ex Englewood Coach, and many others. These guys have done so much for area youth that it would take 10 pages to describe.
Until Next Time!!!!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Monday Thoughts
Sunday was a very interesting day for me as I realized I need to back up from some of the things I try to do to help folks. Those who know me can testify I have never assisted any person as a way to earn money or future favors. Basketball wise I do what I do because I have always loved the amateur game in the same way folks grow up loving music, art, math, and even religion, which to me is a great thing.
I will not go into details but please allow me to say that when a kid is good he is good. Only thing that stops a good kid from reaching his potential is coaching, teaching, desire, and most importantly strength. The difference between the BE level guards and NEC guards is more strength than talent. The same thing with big guys.
One great option will always be Prep School. Especially if you have skills and already a true predictor based on the NCAA clearing house. Some kids without good grades and SAT scores will go the prep route to get grades and SAT scores right. Those kids, the ones who have lower grades cannot complete HS because doing that will freeze the core requirements and once they are frozen you cannot change them even if you go to prep school for a year and get all A's. A big thing in past years was kids flunking gym on purpose so they would not officially graduate.
Those who have good grades can graduate at their HS and enroll in prep school to strictly gain more visibility, work on skills, play against better competition,gain maturity, and most of all GET STRONGER. These kids, who are already qualified for college, now have an opportunity to gain a 2nd HS diploma from a prestigious prep school while learning new things that could help them when they enter college and as they go through life.
So if anyone is thinking prep school they need to understand the true benefits and the actual schools that award scholarships etc.
High School Basketball
JFK NY Classic
Had an opportunity to attend the annual JKK NY HS basketball classic in the Riverdale section of the Bronx. Good games and a true warm-up for the public school playoffs that start very soon.
Saw Campus Magnet (Formerly Andrew Jackson)coached by the legendary Chuck Granby beat Carnarsie coached by DJ, yes he is a real radio DJ on WBLS FM in NYC, Tommy Allen. Carnarsie is young and not as good as they have been in past years. Interesting to watch Rolando Blackman's son playing for Carnarsie where Rolando's mentor Ted Gustus is a parent advocate and very involved with the athletic program. By the way Ted is a definite future NYC Hall of Fame Coach. Young Mr. Blackman, whose Dad is now an executive with the Dallas Mavericks after a long NBA career, will be off to Prep School after he gets his HS diploma.
Watched Cardoza coached by Ron Neclerio come back from an 18 point loss to JFK in the Rucker HS challenge on Saturday to beat Samuel Gompers from the Bronx. Honestly it was nice to see Gompers look like a true program with great uniforms and a coach who seemed to genuinely care about the kids and program. Odd sight I witnessed was a Cardoza player got hurt and the Gompers Coach (with a cap C) went out and helped the player for at least 10 minutes. That's something that Rock Eisenburg from Tilden would do. Cardoza was just too much for the Gompers team who did have players and I would not be surprised to see one of them wind up at a big school in a few years. For Cardoza, the talent is very good. They have two big guys who are definite D1 prospects. Both are 6 ft 8 juniors who run the court and have bounce in their legs. The guards at Cardoza are pretty good as well. They have at least 9-10 players who compete every minute. having Bobby Holford on the bench only helps the cause more because of his years of head coaching and assistant coaching experience on all levels. They have a 3rd guy who is a NYC policeman who also seems to be very good. Greta staff at a school that will be even better next season.
last game was JFK against Martin Van Buren. JFK has a great coach in Johnny Mathis. Johnny is sort of like a HS version of Al Skinner. Firm but not a screamer. He suited up 16 players and before I left at half time had played at least 13. Oddly every kid could play which is why they are rated the 2nd best public school in New York City. This guy has a program! He also has at least 5 kids 6 ft 8 and taller, many sporting Mohawk hair cuts. This team should get to The Garden fir the City championship. Did I mention that the entire team comes back next season? Did I mention that the talent is so good he has future D1 guards on JV? Did I mention he might just have 6-8 kids who could play some level of D1 basketball?
This was a very nice way to spend my afternoon as I watched Nate "Tiny" Archiblad, voted one of the 50 greatest NBA players of all time and the only guard to lead the NBA in scoring and assists the same season, spend time counseling kids on how they played, parents on how to be mire supportive (wish I had spoken to him when my son played lol), and just being available to anyone needing advice. But Tiny Archibald has ALWAYS GIVEN BACK TO THE COMMUNITY!
Bergen Jamboree
Well my son will see his first Teaneck game since he graduated from the school years ago. I plan on arriving around 6 to meet him and watch Teaneck, where he was a 4 year Varsity player and I an awful parent lol, play St. Joe's of Montvalle in the championship game. Hopefully Curtis march will win this game and give Teaneck a much deserved championship. Go Teaneck!
Rutgers's loses
What can I say? Next year? Ummmmmmmmmmm!
SHU Loses to St. Johns
Norm Roberts stock is going up it seems. SJU beats a good SHU team at Alumni Hall or Little Louie Arena. I continue to hear the place is very nice! Big win for St. Johns as they attempt to nab Lance Stephenson for next season. If this happens the Garden might just be alive again.
For Seton hall I still say the future is very bright. Maybe I am wrong but I think next year will be a true break through year for the Pirates.
I will not go into details but please allow me to say that when a kid is good he is good. Only thing that stops a good kid from reaching his potential is coaching, teaching, desire, and most importantly strength. The difference between the BE level guards and NEC guards is more strength than talent. The same thing with big guys.
One great option will always be Prep School. Especially if you have skills and already a true predictor based on the NCAA clearing house. Some kids without good grades and SAT scores will go the prep route to get grades and SAT scores right. Those kids, the ones who have lower grades cannot complete HS because doing that will freeze the core requirements and once they are frozen you cannot change them even if you go to prep school for a year and get all A's. A big thing in past years was kids flunking gym on purpose so they would not officially graduate.
Those who have good grades can graduate at their HS and enroll in prep school to strictly gain more visibility, work on skills, play against better competition,gain maturity, and most of all GET STRONGER. These kids, who are already qualified for college, now have an opportunity to gain a 2nd HS diploma from a prestigious prep school while learning new things that could help them when they enter college and as they go through life.
So if anyone is thinking prep school they need to understand the true benefits and the actual schools that award scholarships etc.
High School Basketball
JFK NY Classic
Had an opportunity to attend the annual JKK NY HS basketball classic in the Riverdale section of the Bronx. Good games and a true warm-up for the public school playoffs that start very soon.
Saw Campus Magnet (Formerly Andrew Jackson)coached by the legendary Chuck Granby beat Carnarsie coached by DJ, yes he is a real radio DJ on WBLS FM in NYC, Tommy Allen. Carnarsie is young and not as good as they have been in past years. Interesting to watch Rolando Blackman's son playing for Carnarsie where Rolando's mentor Ted Gustus is a parent advocate and very involved with the athletic program. By the way Ted is a definite future NYC Hall of Fame Coach. Young Mr. Blackman, whose Dad is now an executive with the Dallas Mavericks after a long NBA career, will be off to Prep School after he gets his HS diploma.
Watched Cardoza coached by Ron Neclerio come back from an 18 point loss to JFK in the Rucker HS challenge on Saturday to beat Samuel Gompers from the Bronx. Honestly it was nice to see Gompers look like a true program with great uniforms and a coach who seemed to genuinely care about the kids and program. Odd sight I witnessed was a Cardoza player got hurt and the Gompers Coach (with a cap C) went out and helped the player for at least 10 minutes. That's something that Rock Eisenburg from Tilden would do. Cardoza was just too much for the Gompers team who did have players and I would not be surprised to see one of them wind up at a big school in a few years. For Cardoza, the talent is very good. They have two big guys who are definite D1 prospects. Both are 6 ft 8 juniors who run the court and have bounce in their legs. The guards at Cardoza are pretty good as well. They have at least 9-10 players who compete every minute. having Bobby Holford on the bench only helps the cause more because of his years of head coaching and assistant coaching experience on all levels. They have a 3rd guy who is a NYC policeman who also seems to be very good. Greta staff at a school that will be even better next season.
last game was JFK against Martin Van Buren. JFK has a great coach in Johnny Mathis. Johnny is sort of like a HS version of Al Skinner. Firm but not a screamer. He suited up 16 players and before I left at half time had played at least 13. Oddly every kid could play which is why they are rated the 2nd best public school in New York City. This guy has a program! He also has at least 5 kids 6 ft 8 and taller, many sporting Mohawk hair cuts. This team should get to The Garden fir the City championship. Did I mention that the entire team comes back next season? Did I mention that the talent is so good he has future D1 guards on JV? Did I mention he might just have 6-8 kids who could play some level of D1 basketball?
This was a very nice way to spend my afternoon as I watched Nate "Tiny" Archiblad, voted one of the 50 greatest NBA players of all time and the only guard to lead the NBA in scoring and assists the same season, spend time counseling kids on how they played, parents on how to be mire supportive (wish I had spoken to him when my son played lol), and just being available to anyone needing advice. But Tiny Archibald has ALWAYS GIVEN BACK TO THE COMMUNITY!
Bergen Jamboree
Well my son will see his first Teaneck game since he graduated from the school years ago. I plan on arriving around 6 to meet him and watch Teaneck, where he was a 4 year Varsity player and I an awful parent lol, play St. Joe's of Montvalle in the championship game. Hopefully Curtis march will win this game and give Teaneck a much deserved championship. Go Teaneck!
Rutgers's loses
What can I say? Next year? Ummmmmmmmmmm!
SHU Loses to St. Johns
Norm Roberts stock is going up it seems. SJU beats a good SHU team at Alumni Hall or Little Louie Arena. I continue to hear the place is very nice! Big win for St. Johns as they attempt to nab Lance Stephenson for next season. If this happens the Garden might just be alive again.
For Seton hall I still say the future is very bright. Maybe I am wrong but I think next year will be a true break through year for the Pirates.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Does Rutgers Want to have good basketball and more
Sitting here early Saturday morning thinking about how hard it is for some folks to live up to others expectations. This applies to learning, employment, and even athletics. It is so hard when people become so disappointed in you that you just seem to give up!
This seems to be the case with JR Inman at Rutgers University. It seems to me that his body language and bench behavior indicate that he has lost the love to play the game. This has been evident for a long time from my observations. It really looks like difficult work when I watch him play. The joy seems gone and he is just on the court to be on the court. No hunger, no desire, no role, just playing and praying not to make mistakes. This is one of the true sad eastern basketball stories not related to an actual tragedy. Coaches and fans alike from Pa. to Connecticut have commented on him this year. I will not say what they have relayed to many people including me. But what remains important is the fact JR Inman seems to have thrown in the towel. He walks up the court, shows little emotion, and is playing scared from the fear he has not pleased his coaches.
Speaking of coaches this is where experience would have played a huge part. I doubt Fred Hill Jr. is a bad coach. I also doubt he is a bad person. If anything he would be considered a players coach. But his lack of experience hurt in this case because he did not understand what it would take to get the most out of kids like JR Inman, Corey Chandler, Anthony Farmer, Hamady N'Diaye, and Jeron Griffin. If he is still the Rutgers Coach in a few years he will be able to handle kids much better. But these are cases that require more than basketball coaching experience. I guess it is why if you watch closely you will see Danny Nee whispering to players during the time-outs.
Now before folks start defending stuff on here at the urging of un-named sources lol, let me say JR and all the others share the blame. A quitter never wins and a winner never quits. And just being a good person and cheering for your teammates does not mean you are a team player or have not quit on them. I watch for the little things. And honestly any player who plays the game of basketball and is content to sit on the bench and be the first guy out when there is a time out after being the leading scorer the past two seasons is soft and too wimpy for me. It is not impressive!!!!
JR should be pissed! Pissed enough to go out there with fire in his eyes and determined to make stuff happen. He does not even look to shoot the ball. Now he might not be All BE 10th team, but he has game. It is just the fire and heart that remains missing. As I have said for 4 year to him, RUN THE DAMN COURT even after a made basket by the other team. Watching him ALWAYS jog up slowly trailing the play is downright sickening.
JR Inman needs to use these last few games to come out of this funk. A funk that could carry over to any career. Even one that is non sports related. You never know who is watching and what opportunities you are missing by just accepting your limited role and accepting bench time with a silly smile on your face. What the hell have you worked so hard for.
Trust me I will never give up on JR the person. Just wish JR would attempt to be all he can basketball wise.
Rutgers Basketball Program
Spoke via email with my guy JShuttlesworth yesterday and he gave me something to think about that I never considered. Has Rutgers given up on basketball? Are they interested in the Penn State Model for athletics? Football, more football, and a little spring football? Is this the reason they hired FHJ? Is this the reason they do not provide FHJ with the tools to become successful? Honestly they owe FHJ another 3 years based on the support they have given him which is very little!
Lets also look at C Vivian Stringer and the RU Women. How much longer will she coach? Her name now attracts players because the facilities sure are not what others have to work with. If she leaves watch out!
I say all this because the new AD needs to be a Basketball and Football person. In addition he or she must understand fund raising and capital projects because funding for new facilities should be on top of the list. The new AD needs to come with a plan to improve basketball through marketing, new facilities including a practice building and new arena. He or she must also understand what it will take to become a true player in the BE conference as opposed to playing just to seem competitive. Yes the Northwestern model is in affect at Rutgers and it is not all Fred Hills fault.
When looking at Rutgers basketball from the outside you must wonder if anyone high up really cares? I mean it is 2009 and no one is even discussing facility improvement. Next thing you might notice is they assign a Assistant AD to work with basketball while the AD does football.
I can go on and on but the bottom line is the resume of who ever is chosen as the new AD at Rutgers will tell the entire picture of the direction Rutgers wishes to go.
This seems to be the case with JR Inman at Rutgers University. It seems to me that his body language and bench behavior indicate that he has lost the love to play the game. This has been evident for a long time from my observations. It really looks like difficult work when I watch him play. The joy seems gone and he is just on the court to be on the court. No hunger, no desire, no role, just playing and praying not to make mistakes. This is one of the true sad eastern basketball stories not related to an actual tragedy. Coaches and fans alike from Pa. to Connecticut have commented on him this year. I will not say what they have relayed to many people including me. But what remains important is the fact JR Inman seems to have thrown in the towel. He walks up the court, shows little emotion, and is playing scared from the fear he has not pleased his coaches.
Speaking of coaches this is where experience would have played a huge part. I doubt Fred Hill Jr. is a bad coach. I also doubt he is a bad person. If anything he would be considered a players coach. But his lack of experience hurt in this case because he did not understand what it would take to get the most out of kids like JR Inman, Corey Chandler, Anthony Farmer, Hamady N'Diaye, and Jeron Griffin. If he is still the Rutgers Coach in a few years he will be able to handle kids much better. But these are cases that require more than basketball coaching experience. I guess it is why if you watch closely you will see Danny Nee whispering to players during the time-outs.
Now before folks start defending stuff on here at the urging of un-named sources lol, let me say JR and all the others share the blame. A quitter never wins and a winner never quits. And just being a good person and cheering for your teammates does not mean you are a team player or have not quit on them. I watch for the little things. And honestly any player who plays the game of basketball and is content to sit on the bench and be the first guy out when there is a time out after being the leading scorer the past two seasons is soft and too wimpy for me. It is not impressive!!!!
JR should be pissed! Pissed enough to go out there with fire in his eyes and determined to make stuff happen. He does not even look to shoot the ball. Now he might not be All BE 10th team, but he has game. It is just the fire and heart that remains missing. As I have said for 4 year to him, RUN THE DAMN COURT even after a made basket by the other team. Watching him ALWAYS jog up slowly trailing the play is downright sickening.
JR Inman needs to use these last few games to come out of this funk. A funk that could carry over to any career. Even one that is non sports related. You never know who is watching and what opportunities you are missing by just accepting your limited role and accepting bench time with a silly smile on your face. What the hell have you worked so hard for.
Trust me I will never give up on JR the person. Just wish JR would attempt to be all he can basketball wise.
Rutgers Basketball Program
Spoke via email with my guy JShuttlesworth yesterday and he gave me something to think about that I never considered. Has Rutgers given up on basketball? Are they interested in the Penn State Model for athletics? Football, more football, and a little spring football? Is this the reason they hired FHJ? Is this the reason they do not provide FHJ with the tools to become successful? Honestly they owe FHJ another 3 years based on the support they have given him which is very little!
Lets also look at C Vivian Stringer and the RU Women. How much longer will she coach? Her name now attracts players because the facilities sure are not what others have to work with. If she leaves watch out!
I say all this because the new AD needs to be a Basketball and Football person. In addition he or she must understand fund raising and capital projects because funding for new facilities should be on top of the list. The new AD needs to come with a plan to improve basketball through marketing, new facilities including a practice building and new arena. He or she must also understand what it will take to become a true player in the BE conference as opposed to playing just to seem competitive. Yes the Northwestern model is in affect at Rutgers and it is not all Fred Hills fault.
When looking at Rutgers basketball from the outside you must wonder if anyone high up really cares? I mean it is 2009 and no one is even discussing facility improvement. Next thing you might notice is they assign a Assistant AD to work with basketball while the AD does football.
I can go on and on but the bottom line is the resume of who ever is chosen as the new AD at Rutgers will tell the entire picture of the direction Rutgers wishes to go.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Thoughts
Funniest comparison in a long time on the internet
A fan on the Rutgers board asks why the big fella has not progressed like Dante Cunningham has. An RU fan responded: "Why hasn't White Castle progressed like Peter Luger's?" If you have ever eaten at Peter Lugar's you will understand lol.
Thoughts
Watched a few games this past week and came away with various thoughts. Loved the way St Johns competed against Duke. Would have been great if they won. Would have been even better if they played game at Alumni Hall. Duke plays in a gym much smaller although they squeeze in 3000 additional fans. It is the main reason the students stand lol.
Folks seem to be still mixed on Norm Roberts. I honestly think he will be back and have thought it all along. Way before the AD mentioned it. When they get in a few more recruits including Lance Stephenson they will be a different team. Anthony mason coming back will also help significantly. Just hope he does not have a JR Inma type of senior year.
Speaking of JR Inman I really feel for him as I would for any kid that goes from a important role on a team to playing 3 minutes. If anyone thinks this is a good look from the RU Coaching staff they are so wrong. It is one thing to sit him out the entire game after providing him 12 minutes to show he is ready. But to play 3 minutes and not return? He must be feeling terrible going from starter and leading scorer to Always PLAYING SCARED.
I wonder if Inman, Farmer, and Griffin could do it over would they attend RU based on treatment from coaching staff and fan reaction to how they have played. Wonder if Corey Chandler would have picked RU as well?
Talk of Rosario and Enchinique transferring from Rutgers after the season is total Bull. Not happening! Why would two kids who are looked upon as saviors and allowed to play without looking over their shoulders want to leave. Heck if anyone is pleased at RU it is those two. And by the way both seem like great kids who love their teammates and want to win.
Bergen Jamboree is at FDU this Saturday. If folks have never been they should try to attend. Although the talent is not that of St. Patrick's, Patterson Catholic, St. Benedict's etc., the games are great and environment even better.
I am a bit confused with the separate admissions for each game. The PSAL in NYC use to do similar stunts until people screamed about it. $6 per game and you have to leave and game back in for the 2nd game. Why not just charge $10 bucks for adults and allow folks to see both games.
By the way this event has been considered the best county tournament in NJ by many. Watch out for the Bosco vs Teaneck game. Both teams have very good players including my guy Javae Gilchrist who now has Central Florida, Temple, FDU, Hofstra, and others watching him. Honestly he would be a huge STEAL for any of the schools mentioned. Because he has good grades, he might just surface in prep school for a year to gain more viability. Watch him play and you will see one of the most un-selfish true 6 ft 2 and growing point guards you have ever seen. He makes everyone around him better. Also watch out for Don Bosco sophomore Vaughn Gray who has big-time written all over him. Smooth and effective is his game and he is a true baller from Patterson NJ.
Looks like with some serious focus Seton Hall might make a post season tournament. They really seem to like the style they play. John Garcia remains impressive despite playing somewhat injured. But again I say Eugene Harvey needs to return to the way he played as a freshmen. He is playing good but at this point I expected him to be great! Maybe I just had too high expectations. But I do feel he will get it together and eventually become what I and many others think he is capable of becoming.
Looking forward to watching Cardoza HS play on Sunday at JFK HS in the Riverdale section of the Bronx. Some folks say Cardoza, coached by NYC legend Ron Neclerio, could be the best public school team in NYC next season with two 6 ft 8 kids returning plus two very good perimeter players. In fact I have heard they might just have 4 D1 players returning.
I have been asked to write a few blogs for the GAME OVER Web Site. Please check my stuff out when I start posting and submitting actual interviews. I will get back to everyone with more details soon. Stay tuned because if nothing else the information will be controversial!
A fan on the Rutgers board asks why the big fella has not progressed like Dante Cunningham has. An RU fan responded: "Why hasn't White Castle progressed like Peter Luger's?" If you have ever eaten at Peter Lugar's you will understand lol.
Thoughts
Watched a few games this past week and came away with various thoughts. Loved the way St Johns competed against Duke. Would have been great if they won. Would have been even better if they played game at Alumni Hall. Duke plays in a gym much smaller although they squeeze in 3000 additional fans. It is the main reason the students stand lol.
Folks seem to be still mixed on Norm Roberts. I honestly think he will be back and have thought it all along. Way before the AD mentioned it. When they get in a few more recruits including Lance Stephenson they will be a different team. Anthony mason coming back will also help significantly. Just hope he does not have a JR Inma type of senior year.
Speaking of JR Inman I really feel for him as I would for any kid that goes from a important role on a team to playing 3 minutes. If anyone thinks this is a good look from the RU Coaching staff they are so wrong. It is one thing to sit him out the entire game after providing him 12 minutes to show he is ready. But to play 3 minutes and not return? He must be feeling terrible going from starter and leading scorer to Always PLAYING SCARED.
I wonder if Inman, Farmer, and Griffin could do it over would they attend RU based on treatment from coaching staff and fan reaction to how they have played. Wonder if Corey Chandler would have picked RU as well?
Talk of Rosario and Enchinique transferring from Rutgers after the season is total Bull. Not happening! Why would two kids who are looked upon as saviors and allowed to play without looking over their shoulders want to leave. Heck if anyone is pleased at RU it is those two. And by the way both seem like great kids who love their teammates and want to win.
Bergen Jamboree is at FDU this Saturday. If folks have never been they should try to attend. Although the talent is not that of St. Patrick's, Patterson Catholic, St. Benedict's etc., the games are great and environment even better.
I am a bit confused with the separate admissions for each game. The PSAL in NYC use to do similar stunts until people screamed about it. $6 per game and you have to leave and game back in for the 2nd game. Why not just charge $10 bucks for adults and allow folks to see both games.
By the way this event has been considered the best county tournament in NJ by many. Watch out for the Bosco vs Teaneck game. Both teams have very good players including my guy Javae Gilchrist who now has Central Florida, Temple, FDU, Hofstra, and others watching him. Honestly he would be a huge STEAL for any of the schools mentioned. Because he has good grades, he might just surface in prep school for a year to gain more viability. Watch him play and you will see one of the most un-selfish true 6 ft 2 and growing point guards you have ever seen. He makes everyone around him better. Also watch out for Don Bosco sophomore Vaughn Gray who has big-time written all over him. Smooth and effective is his game and he is a true baller from Patterson NJ.
Looks like with some serious focus Seton Hall might make a post season tournament. They really seem to like the style they play. John Garcia remains impressive despite playing somewhat injured. But again I say Eugene Harvey needs to return to the way he played as a freshmen. He is playing good but at this point I expected him to be great! Maybe I just had too high expectations. But I do feel he will get it together and eventually become what I and many others think he is capable of becoming.
Looking forward to watching Cardoza HS play on Sunday at JFK HS in the Riverdale section of the Bronx. Some folks say Cardoza, coached by NYC legend Ron Neclerio, could be the best public school team in NYC next season with two 6 ft 8 kids returning plus two very good perimeter players. In fact I have heard they might just have 4 D1 players returning.
I have been asked to write a few blogs for the GAME OVER Web Site. Please check my stuff out when I start posting and submitting actual interviews. I will get back to everyone with more details soon. Stay tuned because if nothing else the information will be controversial!
Monday, February 16, 2009
Tid Bits
According to a few friends the Prime Time Shootout was anything but that excluding the St. Patrick's game. What happened to the great match-ups this event was known for? Maybe they are scheduled but with kids changing schools during the summer a few games become watered down. But getting 5000 to a HS tourney is quite an achievement.
Heard the Nike Super Six was very good. Cannot believe Fordham charges $10 to park. That alone might be enough to keep some fans away. $10 for parking and $10 for tickets makes this game a true expense for an adult and 2 kids. Nike with all its money and advertising benefits from this game should bring the prices down and buy out the lot. After all the sneakers only cost $2.00 to make and they sell them for $70 to $120.00. Come on make this event affordable in this bad economy!
I honestly think someone needs to do one of these super HS events in North Jersey at FDU. North Jersey folks love HS sports! Because FDU is only 10 miles from NYC, the place would be jammed if the event is advertised. Maybe we can get a celebrity sponsor to do it as a write off with the money going to a charity. I am 100% positive if this happens during December the place will packed.
Bergen Jamboree is going strong. Down to final 4 at FDU and the games will be great. Watch out for that Teaneck vs Don Bosco re-match on this larger court.
For those who still do not get it, this is a great event! The fans pack the facility and games often sell out.
Talent in Bergen County is very good. A number of players with division 1 potential are spread out among the area schools. And I am talking about in all classes. Talent in Passaic county is similar and maybe even better.
Nice to see David West who played at Teaneck from age 9 to 16 compete in the 2009 NBA All Star Game. Great kid but sure wish he would loosen up a bit lol. But I guess when you earn $65,000,000 you can be serious and focused all the time. Still remember David being coached by Herman Snyder in Biddy ball and smiling as he played. Did the same thing at Teaneck HS under Curtis March. Maybe David could do something for the program where he started as well as the HS where he played. Ummmmm!
Well it seems folks feel Jonathan Mitchell will be a very good player at Rutgers next season. Well he was the NYS Player of the Year in HS. Odd that Florida graduated top 7-8 players and he was not given an opportunity. Just hope he is what people expect because they will turn on you quickly.
On that note I think Rosario and Enchinique need to stay in the gym during the off season because expectations for them will be super high next season. Remember past All BE Freshmen on the RU Roster have had difficult times this season for various reasons.
I have not heard any rumors but my older bones are telling me that we will see some player movement in the area this summer. I have an idea who might look around but this is only based on my thoughts and observations.
Wonder if SHU will get a bid to a post season tournament? They have to really stay focused and play hard each of the remaining games and the BE Tournament.
What is happening with the RU AD search? Who are the candidates? Hope they interview NJ native Gene Marshall from Army.
I wonder just how much impact local college players not performing or under performing has on area recruiting? Did receive one interesting e-mail lol.
I really laugh every time I read that Jerid Famous folks are at a Seton Hall game. I laughed even harder when I read the son had a game at Westchester CC but the dad and Mom came to a game at SHU. Are you kidding me? They must really enjoy the atmosphere at the Pru. Either that or the Hotdog's and Beer must be among the best in America. I honestly feel they are just enjoying the experience of having a son who is wanted.
If Jarid Famous does not attend SHU it will be the biggest waste of time and effort since RU went after Lance Thomas. I mean the Dad is almost a member of Pirate Blue lol. He is always around. If he goes anywhere else I will be stunned although I will tell find it borderline comical. I have given my personal thoughts to a few folks as we watch this play out.
Wonder if folks honestly feel St. Johns, Rutgers, and SHU will be able to compete in the BE next season?
Why are there so many schools in D1 college basketball? I continue to wonder about this. NJIT had 400 fans at a game over the weekend. 1000 at LIU. No post season chances for many teams and yet the money continues to go into budgets.
What is the deal with Fordham? They have the St. Anthony's connection and many other talented players but are deep in a slump. I honestly think the coaching staff is good enough to get it done. Just one of those bad years thus far. Next year will be better.
Heard the Nike Super Six was very good. Cannot believe Fordham charges $10 to park. That alone might be enough to keep some fans away. $10 for parking and $10 for tickets makes this game a true expense for an adult and 2 kids. Nike with all its money and advertising benefits from this game should bring the prices down and buy out the lot. After all the sneakers only cost $2.00 to make and they sell them for $70 to $120.00. Come on make this event affordable in this bad economy!
I honestly think someone needs to do one of these super HS events in North Jersey at FDU. North Jersey folks love HS sports! Because FDU is only 10 miles from NYC, the place would be jammed if the event is advertised. Maybe we can get a celebrity sponsor to do it as a write off with the money going to a charity. I am 100% positive if this happens during December the place will packed.
Bergen Jamboree is going strong. Down to final 4 at FDU and the games will be great. Watch out for that Teaneck vs Don Bosco re-match on this larger court.
For those who still do not get it, this is a great event! The fans pack the facility and games often sell out.
Talent in Bergen County is very good. A number of players with division 1 potential are spread out among the area schools. And I am talking about in all classes. Talent in Passaic county is similar and maybe even better.
Nice to see David West who played at Teaneck from age 9 to 16 compete in the 2009 NBA All Star Game. Great kid but sure wish he would loosen up a bit lol. But I guess when you earn $65,000,000 you can be serious and focused all the time. Still remember David being coached by Herman Snyder in Biddy ball and smiling as he played. Did the same thing at Teaneck HS under Curtis March. Maybe David could do something for the program where he started as well as the HS where he played. Ummmmm!
Well it seems folks feel Jonathan Mitchell will be a very good player at Rutgers next season. Well he was the NYS Player of the Year in HS. Odd that Florida graduated top 7-8 players and he was not given an opportunity. Just hope he is what people expect because they will turn on you quickly.
On that note I think Rosario and Enchinique need to stay in the gym during the off season because expectations for them will be super high next season. Remember past All BE Freshmen on the RU Roster have had difficult times this season for various reasons.
I have not heard any rumors but my older bones are telling me that we will see some player movement in the area this summer. I have an idea who might look around but this is only based on my thoughts and observations.
Wonder if SHU will get a bid to a post season tournament? They have to really stay focused and play hard each of the remaining games and the BE Tournament.
What is happening with the RU AD search? Who are the candidates? Hope they interview NJ native Gene Marshall from Army.
I wonder just how much impact local college players not performing or under performing has on area recruiting? Did receive one interesting e-mail lol.
I really laugh every time I read that Jerid Famous folks are at a Seton Hall game. I laughed even harder when I read the son had a game at Westchester CC but the dad and Mom came to a game at SHU. Are you kidding me? They must really enjoy the atmosphere at the Pru. Either that or the Hotdog's and Beer must be among the best in America. I honestly feel they are just enjoying the experience of having a son who is wanted.
If Jarid Famous does not attend SHU it will be the biggest waste of time and effort since RU went after Lance Thomas. I mean the Dad is almost a member of Pirate Blue lol. He is always around. If he goes anywhere else I will be stunned although I will tell find it borderline comical. I have given my personal thoughts to a few folks as we watch this play out.
Wonder if folks honestly feel St. Johns, Rutgers, and SHU will be able to compete in the BE next season?
Why are there so many schools in D1 college basketball? I continue to wonder about this. NJIT had 400 fans at a game over the weekend. 1000 at LIU. No post season chances for many teams and yet the money continues to go into budgets.
What is the deal with Fordham? They have the St. Anthony's connection and many other talented players but are deep in a slump. I honestly think the coaching staff is good enough to get it done. Just one of those bad years thus far. Next year will be better.
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