From Fox Sports. Obviously you should take these rankings with a grain of salt as recruiting classes have yet to shape up and players on these 25 teams may enter the draft or transfer.
1. Kansas
2. Michigan State
3. Villanova
4. Purdue
5. Duke
6. Clemson
7. Washington
8. North Carolina
9. Kentucky
10. Butler
11. Xavier
12. UCONN
13. West Virginia
14. Wake Forest
15. Minnesota
16. Louisville
17. Texas
18. Illinois
19. Ohio State
20. Tennessee
21. Gonzaga
22. Siena
23. Michigan
24. California
25. UCLA
6 teams from the Big 10 and only 4 from the Big East and ACC, this guy may be on crack......
Thursday, April 9, 2009
NBA Draft: Which Underclassmen Have Declared So Far
Granted more than half of these guys will probably return to their respective schools:
(* To preserve eligibility, player has not hired an agent.)
DeJuan Blair, PF, So., Pittsburgh
Chase Budinger, G/F, Jr., Arizona
Nick Calathes, G, Florida*
Patrick Christopher, SG, Jr., Cal*
Earl Clark, F, Jr., Louisville
Dwayne Collins, PF, Jr., Miami*
Brandon Costner, PF, NC State*
DeMar DeRozan, G/F, Fr., USC
Eric Devendorf, G, Jr., Syracuse*
Devan Downey, G, Jr., South Carolina*
Tyreke Evans, G, Fr., Memphis
Roderick Flemings, SG, Jr., Hawaii*
Jonny Flynn, PG, So., Syracuse
Blake Griffin, PF, So., Oklahoma
Daniel Hackett, PG, Jr., USC
James Harden, SG, So., Arizona State
Paul Harris, G/F, Jr., Syracuse*
Jordan Hill, PF, Jr., Arizona
Jrue Holiday, G, Fr., UCLA*
Brandon Jennings, PG, Italy
James Johnson, F, So., Wake Forest
Mac Koshwal, C, So., DePaul*
Jodie Meeks, SG, Jr., Kentucky*
Tasmin Mitchell, F, Jr., LSU*
B.J. Mullens, C, Fr., Ohio State
DaJuan Summers, F, Georgetown
Jeff Teague, G, So., Wake Forest*
Greivis Vasquez, G, Jr., Maryland*
Of the players that have hired agents do you see any that may surprise you? (i.e. coming out to early)
(* To preserve eligibility, player has not hired an agent.)
DeJuan Blair, PF, So., Pittsburgh
Chase Budinger, G/F, Jr., Arizona
Nick Calathes, G, Florida*
Patrick Christopher, SG, Jr., Cal*
Earl Clark, F, Jr., Louisville
Dwayne Collins, PF, Jr., Miami*
Brandon Costner, PF, NC State*
DeMar DeRozan, G/F, Fr., USC
Eric Devendorf, G, Jr., Syracuse*
Devan Downey, G, Jr., South Carolina*
Tyreke Evans, G, Fr., Memphis
Roderick Flemings, SG, Jr., Hawaii*
Jonny Flynn, PG, So., Syracuse
Blake Griffin, PF, So., Oklahoma
Daniel Hackett, PG, Jr., USC
James Harden, SG, So., Arizona State
Paul Harris, G/F, Jr., Syracuse*
Jordan Hill, PF, Jr., Arizona
Jrue Holiday, G, Fr., UCLA*
Brandon Jennings, PG, Italy
James Johnson, F, So., Wake Forest
Mac Koshwal, C, So., DePaul*
Jodie Meeks, SG, Jr., Kentucky*
Tasmin Mitchell, F, Jr., LSU*
B.J. Mullens, C, Fr., Ohio State
DaJuan Summers, F, Georgetown
Jeff Teague, G, So., Wake Forest*
Greivis Vasquez, G, Jr., Maryland*
Of the players that have hired agents do you see any that may surprise you? (i.e. coming out to early)
Snap Judgements on the Reds
Well we have had one series in the books of this 2009 season and it is WAY to early to make too many judgements on this team but lets at least point out a few tid bits.
* Lets not forget that the Mets are predicted to be one of the top teams in the NL. There were a lot of Reds fans who were quick to pass judgement on our offense after opening day but let us not forget we had the pleasure of facing Johan Santana that day, not an easy task. Since that outing the Reds have hit the ball well, so no need to panic yet.
* Jay Bruce looks like he is pressing a little right now. I think once he gets in stride he will be fine. Not All Star type numbers but he should be very productive.
* Joey Votto will more than likely be our All Star this year. His stroke is effortless and he absolutely smashes the ball. He can hit with as much power as Dunn and has way more intangibles than Dunn could ever dream of. Not ready to put Votto in the Hall of Fame yet like some Reds fans, but could easily see him pushing 40 Home Runs and 100 RBI's this season all while offering solid defense at first.
* Out of Harang, Volquez, and Arroyo Aaron Harang has given us the best outing thus far. Harang was the pitcher who a lot of Reds fans worry about. Volquez will need to work on lowering that pitch count, once again he threw a lot of pitches early in the game. Arroyo was just Arroyo, he is not a true #3 pitcher more like #5. He got the only W so far so hard to complain too much.
* Outside of a rough outing from Herrara and Lincoln the bullpen has been absolutely lights out. Cordero came out today and got three K's to get the save. Arthur Rhodes has pitched phenomenal thus far. The bullpen is stacked and will help us win some ball games this year.
* Left side of the infield has been less than impressive so far. Edwin is starting the season 1-7, we will need a lot more offense out of him to justify having him on the field cause he ain't winning any Gold Gloves anytime soon. Gonzalez is 0-6 starting the season, he is not expected to hit the ball but is also expected to do it with the glove and had a critical error on Wednesday night. Hopefully they can both get something going.
* Lets not forget that the Mets are predicted to be one of the top teams in the NL. There were a lot of Reds fans who were quick to pass judgement on our offense after opening day but let us not forget we had the pleasure of facing Johan Santana that day, not an easy task. Since that outing the Reds have hit the ball well, so no need to panic yet.
* Jay Bruce looks like he is pressing a little right now. I think once he gets in stride he will be fine. Not All Star type numbers but he should be very productive.
* Joey Votto will more than likely be our All Star this year. His stroke is effortless and he absolutely smashes the ball. He can hit with as much power as Dunn and has way more intangibles than Dunn could ever dream of. Not ready to put Votto in the Hall of Fame yet like some Reds fans, but could easily see him pushing 40 Home Runs and 100 RBI's this season all while offering solid defense at first.
* Out of Harang, Volquez, and Arroyo Aaron Harang has given us the best outing thus far. Harang was the pitcher who a lot of Reds fans worry about. Volquez will need to work on lowering that pitch count, once again he threw a lot of pitches early in the game. Arroyo was just Arroyo, he is not a true #3 pitcher more like #5. He got the only W so far so hard to complain too much.
* Outside of a rough outing from Herrara and Lincoln the bullpen has been absolutely lights out. Cordero came out today and got three K's to get the save. Arthur Rhodes has pitched phenomenal thus far. The bullpen is stacked and will help us win some ball games this year.
* Left side of the infield has been less than impressive so far. Edwin is starting the season 1-7, we will need a lot more offense out of him to justify having him on the field cause he ain't winning any Gold Gloves anytime soon. Gonzalez is 0-6 starting the season, he is not expected to hit the ball but is also expected to do it with the glove and had a critical error on Wednesday night. Hopefully they can both get something going.
John Wall Narrows List
Rivals.com #1 ranked recruit John Wall has narrowed his list to seven schools. N.C. State, Duke, Memphis, Baylor, Kansas, Miami and Kentucky are all in the running for the PG to join their team next year. Coach Calipari is out of the recruiting trail this week and I would imagine he will be paying a visit to Mr. Wall. Although Wall will more than likely start wherever he goes Kentucky is in desperate need of PG.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Holmes Bulldogs Basketball Recruits
Below are the ESPN.com scouting reports for four of Holmes High School players on the recruiting trail.
Ricardo Johnson, 6'4 JR. SG:
January, 2009: Johnson is a long armed wing with a great basketball body. He likes to attack the rim and shoot the pull up going to his left. He hangs in the air and draws fouls near the rim and can finish through contact. He can also slash between defenders. He is an excellent defensive rebounder that is a threat to take it coast to coast. Johnson is a good ball handler that can find the open man and remains calm when trapped. Johnson needs to extend his shooting range and improve his open court ball handling when being pressured. Great upside
March, 2009: This athletic wing attacks the rim in transition and in the half court. He is an excellent athlete that can score through contact. Johnson can finish above the rim with a clear path and constantly makes athletic plays on both ends of the floor. When in rhythm he can knock down the spot up three with time and space.
Scouts Grade: 85
Considering: Bradley, Xavier, Indiana
Jeremiah Johnson 6'4 JR. SG:
January, 2009: This athletic wing is strong and excels in transition and in the half court by attacking the rim. Johnson can knock down the open three when his feet are set. He is also an excellent rebounder that can gain possession of the ball in and out of his area as he sprints in from the perimeter. Johnson competes and flat out attacks defenders off the dribble. He can score through contact on a regular basis. Johnson is a good on ball defender and is capable of defending all three perimeter positions. He must continue to improve his ball handling and extend his shooting range to take game to next level. Johnson is a physical presence on the perimeter with good upside.
March, 2009: Johnson is a very aggressive high energy wing that can hit the open three off the catch with time and space. He is a terrific defensive rebounder for his size and is a good enough ball handler to immediately start the fast break. Johnson is another excellent Holmes athlete that is an above the rim finisher with a clear path. Johnson also excels in transition as he sprints the floor for easy baskets.
Scouts Grade: 82
Schools Considering: None listed
Elijah Pittman 6'7 JR SF
March, 2009: Pittman is a long athlete that has a body built for hoops. He is thin and must add strength but is athletic and has great length. Pittman can finish above the rim in traffic in transition as well as in the half court when motivated. He sprints the floor in transition and loves to spot up for three in the corner where he can make the defense pay with time and space. On the glass Pittman is an asset as well. He has the ability to rebound in and out of his area on both ends. He must improve his scoring moves off the dribble if he wants to be a small forward at the next level but he has excellent upside.
January, 2009: Pittman is a long athlete that runs the floor very well. He prefers to play on the perimeter where he spots up on the three point line. Pittman can knock down the open three with time and space. His jumper is more of a set shot with a low release but his follow through is excellent. He can also put the ball on the floor and take it to the basket. Pittman likes to attack along the baseline and from the high post area. He can score on floaters in between defenders with great touch and concentration on the rim. He is a terrific shot blocker on or away from the ball and has excellent timing. Pittman is skilled and as he adds strength most of the negative parts of his game will improve. He is an excellent looking prospect with great upside.
Scouts Grade: 87
Schools Considering: Kentucky
Kevon Rice 6'6 Soph. G/F
January, 2009: Rice has good size and is a good athlete. He is very aggressive and looks to make scoring plays from the wing and by running the floor in transition. This lefty is an excellent slasher especially with his strong hand. He can spilt defenders and elevate over taller opponents in the lane. He does a great job of drawing fouls as well. He is very confident and plays with swagger. Rice does a good job of hitting the offensive glass. He keeps the ball alive with his long arms and is good for a least one tip in. Rice needs to add strength and work on his right hand in addition to extending his shooting range but has terrific upside.
March 20009: Rice is a young wing that is silky smooth. This lefty is skilled with an excellent mid range pull up jumper. He is tough to stop going to his left because he can elevate and shoot over smaller defenders. Rice also does a great job at reading penetration and spotting up behind the arc where he can knock down the open three and stretch the defense to its breaking point. He is also a good passer with excellent touch on his passes where he gets teammates the ball while they are in scoring position. Rice needs to get stronger and continue to work on his ball handling and develop scoring moves going to his right but he plays with great confidence and a scorers mentality and has off the charts upside.
Scouts Grade: 88
Schools Considering: None at this time
Ricardo Johnson, 6'4 JR. SG:
January, 2009: Johnson is a long armed wing with a great basketball body. He likes to attack the rim and shoot the pull up going to his left. He hangs in the air and draws fouls near the rim and can finish through contact. He can also slash between defenders. He is an excellent defensive rebounder that is a threat to take it coast to coast. Johnson is a good ball handler that can find the open man and remains calm when trapped. Johnson needs to extend his shooting range and improve his open court ball handling when being pressured. Great upside
March, 2009: This athletic wing attacks the rim in transition and in the half court. He is an excellent athlete that can score through contact. Johnson can finish above the rim with a clear path and constantly makes athletic plays on both ends of the floor. When in rhythm he can knock down the spot up three with time and space.
Scouts Grade: 85
Considering: Bradley, Xavier, Indiana
Jeremiah Johnson 6'4 JR. SG:
January, 2009: This athletic wing is strong and excels in transition and in the half court by attacking the rim. Johnson can knock down the open three when his feet are set. He is also an excellent rebounder that can gain possession of the ball in and out of his area as he sprints in from the perimeter. Johnson competes and flat out attacks defenders off the dribble. He can score through contact on a regular basis. Johnson is a good on ball defender and is capable of defending all three perimeter positions. He must continue to improve his ball handling and extend his shooting range to take game to next level. Johnson is a physical presence on the perimeter with good upside.
March, 2009: Johnson is a very aggressive high energy wing that can hit the open three off the catch with time and space. He is a terrific defensive rebounder for his size and is a good enough ball handler to immediately start the fast break. Johnson is another excellent Holmes athlete that is an above the rim finisher with a clear path. Johnson also excels in transition as he sprints the floor for easy baskets.
Scouts Grade: 82
Schools Considering: None listed
Elijah Pittman 6'7 JR SF
March, 2009: Pittman is a long athlete that has a body built for hoops. He is thin and must add strength but is athletic and has great length. Pittman can finish above the rim in traffic in transition as well as in the half court when motivated. He sprints the floor in transition and loves to spot up for three in the corner where he can make the defense pay with time and space. On the glass Pittman is an asset as well. He has the ability to rebound in and out of his area on both ends. He must improve his scoring moves off the dribble if he wants to be a small forward at the next level but he has excellent upside.
January, 2009: Pittman is a long athlete that runs the floor very well. He prefers to play on the perimeter where he spots up on the three point line. Pittman can knock down the open three with time and space. His jumper is more of a set shot with a low release but his follow through is excellent. He can also put the ball on the floor and take it to the basket. Pittman likes to attack along the baseline and from the high post area. He can score on floaters in between defenders with great touch and concentration on the rim. He is a terrific shot blocker on or away from the ball and has excellent timing. Pittman is skilled and as he adds strength most of the negative parts of his game will improve. He is an excellent looking prospect with great upside.
Scouts Grade: 87
Schools Considering: Kentucky
Kevon Rice 6'6 Soph. G/F
January, 2009: Rice has good size and is a good athlete. He is very aggressive and looks to make scoring plays from the wing and by running the floor in transition. This lefty is an excellent slasher especially with his strong hand. He can spilt defenders and elevate over taller opponents in the lane. He does a great job of drawing fouls as well. He is very confident and plays with swagger. Rice does a good job of hitting the offensive glass. He keeps the ball alive with his long arms and is good for a least one tip in. Rice needs to add strength and work on his right hand in addition to extending his shooting range but has terrific upside.
March 20009: Rice is a young wing that is silky smooth. This lefty is skilled with an excellent mid range pull up jumper. He is tough to stop going to his left because he can elevate and shoot over smaller defenders. Rice also does a great job at reading penetration and spotting up behind the arc where he can knock down the open three and stretch the defense to its breaking point. He is also a good passer with excellent touch on his passes where he gets teammates the ball while they are in scoring position. Rice needs to get stronger and continue to work on his ball handling and develop scoring moves going to his right but he plays with great confidence and a scorers mentality and has off the charts upside.
Scouts Grade: 88
Schools Considering: None at this time
Leon Hall Latest Cincinnati Bengal Victim to be Arrested
Bengals cornerback Leon Hall is facing DUI charges after the Ohio State Patrol says he was driving under the influence of alcohol. A breath test showed Hall had a BAC of 0.149. The legal limit is 0.08.Add Leon Hall to this list of Bengals arrested since 2005, ranked from best to worst:
(Oh, and signing Frank the Tank Johnson helps this situation even more, he's not included in this list.)
1. Chris Henry (June 14th, ‘06) - providing alcohol to three underaged females, but did he score?
2. Chris Henry (Jan. 28th, ‘06) - possession of a concealed firearm, improper exhibition of firearm, aggravated assault with firearm, that’s a lot of firearm action
3. A.J. Nicholson (June 3rd, ‘06) - burglary, vandalism, grant theft, *bonus points for stealing electronics from a teammate, that’s not easy
4. Frostee Rucker (June 21st, ‘06) - vandalism, spousal battery, just don’t beat up that blackberry
5. Reggie McNeal (Dec. 3rd, ‘06) - resisting arrest and drug possession, always fun to catch the cops with an elbow to the chest
6. Eric Steinbach (Aug. 5th, ‘06) - boating under the influence, admit it, you didn’t even know that counted
7. A.J. Nicholson (May 18th, ‘06) - domestic violence, he restarted the streak after they had gone four months in between arrests
8. Chris Henry (June 3rd, ‘06) - DUI, 0.092, I’d blow that from a sip of Manischweitz
9. Odell Thurman (Sept. 25th, ‘06) - drunken driving, a 0.18, but he was more sober than Chris Henry or Reggie McNeal, so it’s all good
10. Deltha O’Neal (Dec. 9th, ‘06) - DWI, come on a 0.10 shouldn’t even count
11. Matthias Askew (July 22nd, ‘06) - disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, failure to comply with police officer’s order, obstructing justice, kinda boring
12. Chris Henry (Dec. 15 ‘05) - weed possession, just kids being kids
13. Quincy Wilson (June 17, ‘07) - disorderly conduct, kind of weak, but cool that the bride and groom were arrested too
Kentucky Wildcats News and Notes
* Perhaps a little fallout from the news of DeMarcus Cousins announcement Daniel Orton has re-opened his recruiting and decommitted from the University of Kentucky. Orton was ranked #22 on Rivals.com top 150. There were some concerns as to how Orton would fit into Calipari's dribble drive offense. Where this is a big loss for Kentucky with the signing of Cousins they essentially traded the #2 Rivals ranked player for the #22.
* Michael Porter has announced that we will not return to the University of Kentucky for his senior season. Porter, who played PG for the Cats in 2009, is leaving to pursue other options outside of basketball. Porter will graduate from Kentucky in May and is married with a baby due this summer. This will open up a scholarship spot for Kentucky.
* Xavier Henry has essentially narrowed his list down to Kentucky and Kansas. All early indications are that Henry would more than likely choose Kanasas. Henry's parents both played at Kansas and he has made an official visit to their campus. Henry had previously signed at Memphis to play for Calipari but was released from his letter from Memphis.
* #47 ranked player in Rivals.com SG Nolan Dennis has also been released from his LOI at Memphis. Dennis has been reported to be interested in joining Calipari at Kentucky.
* Michael Porter has announced that we will not return to the University of Kentucky for his senior season. Porter, who played PG for the Cats in 2009, is leaving to pursue other options outside of basketball. Porter will graduate from Kentucky in May and is married with a baby due this summer. This will open up a scholarship spot for Kentucky.
* Xavier Henry has essentially narrowed his list down to Kentucky and Kansas. All early indications are that Henry would more than likely choose Kanasas. Henry's parents both played at Kansas and he has made an official visit to their campus. Henry had previously signed at Memphis to play for Calipari but was released from his letter from Memphis.
* #47 ranked player in Rivals.com SG Nolan Dennis has also been released from his LOI at Memphis. Dennis has been reported to be interested in joining Calipari at Kentucky.
DeMarcus Cousins Commits to the Wildcats
According to Scout.com #6 ranked player in the Country DeMarcus Cousins has committed to the University of Kentucky and Coach John Calipari. Cousins had previously committed to the University of Memphis but had not signed a letter of intent.
Cousins, 6'9" 245lbs, is a big time scorer in the post. He is very strong and very physical player inside and will add depth at that position. Hard to say where the Cats will slot Cousins in their lineup. Most likely he would come in to help Patrick Patterson which will give us another strong physical option down low.
Cousins, 6'9" 245lbs, is a big time scorer in the post. He is very strong and very physical player inside and will add depth at that position. Hard to say where the Cats will slot Cousins in their lineup. Most likely he would come in to help Patrick Patterson which will give us another strong physical option down low.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
My Take on Sean Miller
Though my opinion doesnt matter a whole lot, I would like to go on record with my take regarding the recent departure of Xavier basketball coach Sean Miller. These opinions may ruffle some feathers, but Im not afraid of the criticism. Feel free to comment. By the way, remember that I was correct in saying Miller would leave Xavier for Arizona. Ill tell you why.
1) Xavier AD Mike Babinski screwed up. First, he stated that Xavier was willing to match any offer from Arizona. Miller returned from an Arizona visit on Sunday without a move in place. In fact, he had turned down the initial offer. He returned to Xavier hoping that Babinski would match the 2 million + offer, but Babinski instead sat on his hands. Xavier made no attempt to match and Miller later changed his mind and accepted to Arizona offer. Ive got new for you Babinski, if you want to keep a coach, especially a coach as coveted as Miller you need to pay the man. The offer from Arizona was reasonable and one Xavier very easily could have matched.
2) Jordan Crawford got screwed (and for that matter several other Xavier players). Some players came to Xavier specifically for Miller. In fact, Crawford even sat out a year to do it only to see Miller leave for another program. The NCAA needs to review this rule and change it in order to give some value to the players as well.
3) If you think Sean Miller went to Arizona simply because of their NCAA tournament appearances you are mistaken. Yes they have been to 25 straight. However, he had been going to the NCAA with Xavier. Outside of the money, Arizona gives Sean Miller the opportunity to play in a major conference and most importantly win a national championship (even though that wont be in the near future). At Xavier, the chance for an NCAA title was zero, unless a change of conference occurs.
4) I don't think Sean Miller is that good. He is good yes, but great or above average no. Yes he is young and yes he coached several teams to deep NCAA runs. However, I believe that was a product of a good program at Xavier and good players more so than a great coach. Maybe he was good behind the scenes in practice, that I do not know. I know he was good person, but that alone doesn't win games. To me, Miller showed a man that was a good recruiter but not a great one. He also displayed only average game coaching. Though this is only my opinion and may change with age, I saw him lose games coaching that Xavier should have won as well as a team that tended to play down to some competition at the same high rate that they played up to good teams.
5) John Groce should be the next Xavier coach. He is a former Xavier assistant who currently coaches at Ohio University. He knows the "Xavier Way" and is highly regarded as big time recruiter. He was the main recruiter for Thad Matta at OSU.
1) Xavier AD Mike Babinski screwed up. First, he stated that Xavier was willing to match any offer from Arizona. Miller returned from an Arizona visit on Sunday without a move in place. In fact, he had turned down the initial offer. He returned to Xavier hoping that Babinski would match the 2 million + offer, but Babinski instead sat on his hands. Xavier made no attempt to match and Miller later changed his mind and accepted to Arizona offer. Ive got new for you Babinski, if you want to keep a coach, especially a coach as coveted as Miller you need to pay the man. The offer from Arizona was reasonable and one Xavier very easily could have matched.
2) Jordan Crawford got screwed (and for that matter several other Xavier players). Some players came to Xavier specifically for Miller. In fact, Crawford even sat out a year to do it only to see Miller leave for another program. The NCAA needs to review this rule and change it in order to give some value to the players as well.
3) If you think Sean Miller went to Arizona simply because of their NCAA tournament appearances you are mistaken. Yes they have been to 25 straight. However, he had been going to the NCAA with Xavier. Outside of the money, Arizona gives Sean Miller the opportunity to play in a major conference and most importantly win a national championship (even though that wont be in the near future). At Xavier, the chance for an NCAA title was zero, unless a change of conference occurs.
4) I don't think Sean Miller is that good. He is good yes, but great or above average no. Yes he is young and yes he coached several teams to deep NCAA runs. However, I believe that was a product of a good program at Xavier and good players more so than a great coach. Maybe he was good behind the scenes in practice, that I do not know. I know he was good person, but that alone doesn't win games. To me, Miller showed a man that was a good recruiter but not a great one. He also displayed only average game coaching. Though this is only my opinion and may change with age, I saw him lose games coaching that Xavier should have won as well as a team that tended to play down to some competition at the same high rate that they played up to good teams.
5) John Groce should be the next Xavier coach. He is a former Xavier assistant who currently coaches at Ohio University. He knows the "Xavier Way" and is highly regarded as big time recruiter. He was the main recruiter for Thad Matta at OSU.
Bengals Sign Tank Johnson
Say it aint so! The Cincinnati Bengals reached a deal with Tank Johnson today. Terms of the deal have not been disclosed. Tank Johnson is a former Chicago Bear and Dallas Cowboy DT who feels he suits better in the Bengals 4-3. This move cries RIDICULOUS for the Bengals. Tank Johnson has been involved with multiple run ins with the law, including the arrests for gun possession, marijuana possession, resisting arrest, and assault. On another occasion, he was found with 6 firearms in his car and was questioned in the shooting death of his bodyguard. For a team that so bad wishes to escape the thugish and character flawed persona that they displayed on a national stage just a few years ago, they seem to continue to draft guys that still fit that persona. What makes matters worse is that Tank Johnson isnt that good. A mediocre defensive tackle at best.
I will go on record now saying this is a bad move. I will be glad to be proven wrong on the field.
What does this say? What the move does say is that the Bengals have options going into this months NFL draft. I still believe a trade back into the middle of the 1st rd would be the best move, however, options are open. If one of the big two tackles are available they can jump on it. A possible trade of Ocho Cinco may now signal a WR like Crabtree or Macklin at #6.
I will go on record now saying this is a bad move. I will be glad to be proven wrong on the field.
What does this say? What the move does say is that the Bengals have options going into this months NFL draft. I still believe a trade back into the middle of the 1st rd would be the best move, however, options are open. If one of the big two tackles are available they can jump on it. A possible trade of Ocho Cinco may now signal a WR like Crabtree or Macklin at #6.
Tarheels Show the Roadmap to the Championship
As much as I hate the North Carolina Tarheels and their program I do have a lot of respect for the seniors on their basketball team. They had all of the talent in the world last year and just fell short. Lawson, Green, Hansborough and crew could have all went to the NBA but instead they chose to stay in school and try to win that National Championship, and they succeeded in huge fashion. The Tar Heels won each of their tournament games by double digits and completely man handled Michigan State in what was essentially a home game for the Spartans. I think we could have seen this many times in College basketball. If these top notch recruiting classes would spend their time in the NCAA working on their skills and building a team. The Tar Heels figured it out, and this success may elevate their draft status. Most competitors will tell you its about the Championships, and they stayed and passed up millions of dollars just for that Championship. Congratulations to the Tar Heels.
Jodie Meeks Declare Eligible for the Draft
According to a source on Yahoo Sports, Kentucky Guard Jodie Meeks has decided to enter his name into the NBA draft. Meeks will not hire an agent which will make him eligible to return to the Wildcats if his is not happy with his draft position. Currently Meeks is projected as a second round pick.
Personally I think this is a good move for Jodie, you cannot blame him for at least testing the waters. If Meeks stays he will be playing for his third head coach in four years at Kentucky. I think in the end he will return to school for his Senior season. He knows that he can flourish under John Calipari and be part of a real special team for Kentucky. By participating in these workouts Jodie will be critiqued by NBA scouts which will help him elevate his game for next year.
Still no word on Patrick Patterson.
Personally I think this is a good move for Jodie, you cannot blame him for at least testing the waters. If Meeks stays he will be playing for his third head coach in four years at Kentucky. I think in the end he will return to school for his Senior season. He knows that he can flourish under John Calipari and be part of a real special team for Kentucky. By participating in these workouts Jodie will be critiqued by NBA scouts which will help him elevate his game for next year.
Still no word on Patrick Patterson.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Potential Xavier Coaching Options
Below is a list of potential Xavier head coaches that was developed by Dustin Dow of the Cincinnati Enquirer.
Chris Mack
Age: 39
Currently: Xavier assistant coach
Reasoning: Mack was Miller’s top assistant for five seasons and is a former Xavier player and graduate. He’s also a strong link of continuation whose hiring would make for an easy transition. Several players have spoken out in support of Mack, and he would be most equipped to retain recruiting commitments and current players, many of whom he was instrumental in recruiting. Miller said if Mack doesn’t get the Xavier job, then Mack would join Miller’s staff in Arizona.
Fran McCaffery
Age: 49
Currently: The head coach at Siena
Reasoning: McCaffery has taken three different teams to the NCAA Tournament, including Siena, which he led to a first-round upset of Ohio State this season. He is known for graduating his players, which is a key component at Xavier.
Brad Brownell
Age: 40
Currently: The head coach at Wright State
Reasoning: Brownell has taken both Wright State and UNC-Wilmington to the NCAA Tournament, and has won 20 or more games in five of seven seasons as a head coach. He’s never had a losing season and has finished worse than third place in his conference only once. Three times, he’s won a conference championship.
Brad Stevens
Age: 32
Currently: The head coach at Butler
Reasoning: He would be the youngest option certainly, but Stevens has proven himself to be an effective head coach, leading Butler to the NCAA Tournament in each of his two seasons in Indianapolis. He has Midwest recruiting connections and would fit the profile of Xavier’s most recent hires – Thad Matta and Sean Miller – who were young up-and-coming coaches whose success at Xavier benefited their career but also the XU program.
John Groce
Age: 37
Currently: The head coach at Ohio University
Reasoning: Groce was the recruiting architect under Thad Matta at Ohio State and a key assistant to Matta at Xavier. Now at OU, he’s establishing himself as a head coach, which may be a prerequisite for most candidates other than Mack.
Ken McDonald
Age: 39
Currently: The head coach at Western Kentucky
Reasoning: McDonald has been an assistant coach at Clemson, Georgia and Texas where he secured high-profile recruiting classes. After leaving Texas to take over at WKU a year ago, he led the Hilltoppers to a 25-9 season and a first-round NCAA Tournament victory.
Louis Orr
Age: 50
Currently: The head coach at Bowling Green
Reasoning: Orr has Xavier roots as a former XU assistant from 1991-94 and even deeper Cincinnati roots as a Withrow High School graduate. He was forced out of Seton Hall in 2006, but led Bowling Green to a Divisional title this season in the Mid-American Conference.
Jim Christian
Age: 44
Currently: The head coach at Texas Christian
Reasoning: Christian successfully led Kent State to six straight 20-win seasons from 2003-2008 before taking over at TCU this season. Bobinski noticed the job Christian did at Kent State with admiration. Christian, who has nationwide recruiting contacts, is reportedly well-compensated at TCU but would be in a more winnable position at Xavier.
Chris Mack
Age: 39
Currently: Xavier assistant coach
Reasoning: Mack was Miller’s top assistant for five seasons and is a former Xavier player and graduate. He’s also a strong link of continuation whose hiring would make for an easy transition. Several players have spoken out in support of Mack, and he would be most equipped to retain recruiting commitments and current players, many of whom he was instrumental in recruiting. Miller said if Mack doesn’t get the Xavier job, then Mack would join Miller’s staff in Arizona.
Fran McCaffery
Age: 49
Currently: The head coach at Siena
Reasoning: McCaffery has taken three different teams to the NCAA Tournament, including Siena, which he led to a first-round upset of Ohio State this season. He is known for graduating his players, which is a key component at Xavier.
Brad Brownell
Age: 40
Currently: The head coach at Wright State
Reasoning: Brownell has taken both Wright State and UNC-Wilmington to the NCAA Tournament, and has won 20 or more games in five of seven seasons as a head coach. He’s never had a losing season and has finished worse than third place in his conference only once. Three times, he’s won a conference championship.
Brad Stevens
Age: 32
Currently: The head coach at Butler
Reasoning: He would be the youngest option certainly, but Stevens has proven himself to be an effective head coach, leading Butler to the NCAA Tournament in each of his two seasons in Indianapolis. He has Midwest recruiting connections and would fit the profile of Xavier’s most recent hires – Thad Matta and Sean Miller – who were young up-and-coming coaches whose success at Xavier benefited their career but also the XU program.
John Groce
Age: 37
Currently: The head coach at Ohio University
Reasoning: Groce was the recruiting architect under Thad Matta at Ohio State and a key assistant to Matta at Xavier. Now at OU, he’s establishing himself as a head coach, which may be a prerequisite for most candidates other than Mack.
Ken McDonald
Age: 39
Currently: The head coach at Western Kentucky
Reasoning: McDonald has been an assistant coach at Clemson, Georgia and Texas where he secured high-profile recruiting classes. After leaving Texas to take over at WKU a year ago, he led the Hilltoppers to a 25-9 season and a first-round NCAA Tournament victory.
Louis Orr
Age: 50
Currently: The head coach at Bowling Green
Reasoning: Orr has Xavier roots as a former XU assistant from 1991-94 and even deeper Cincinnati roots as a Withrow High School graduate. He was forced out of Seton Hall in 2006, but led Bowling Green to a Divisional title this season in the Mid-American Conference.
Jim Christian
Age: 44
Currently: The head coach at Texas Christian
Reasoning: Christian successfully led Kent State to six straight 20-win seasons from 2003-2008 before taking over at TCU this season. Bobinski noticed the job Christian did at Kent State with admiration. Christian, who has nationwide recruiting contacts, is reportedly well-compensated at TCU but would be in a more winnable position at Xavier.
Is this the Greatest Week for Sports?
With all that has gone on in sports during this time of year I am curious and convinced that this is the greatest week of sports in any given year, please let me plead my case.
During the span of this week (or even past 8 days)
NCAA Final Four and National Championship
Major League Baseball Opening Day
NBA- teams making playoff push
The Masters starting on Thursday
WWE Wrestlemania this week
NCAA Hockey Frozen Four Tournament
Women's NCAA Final Four and Championship
NHL teams playing somewhere in colder climates
You could even make a case for NFL Draft conversation
With all of this activity I am convinced that this is the greatest week for sports. Your thoughts?
During the span of this week (or even past 8 days)
NCAA Final Four and National Championship
Major League Baseball Opening Day
NBA- teams making playoff push
The Masters starting on Thursday
WWE Wrestlemania this week
NCAA Hockey Frozen Four Tournament
Women's NCAA Final Four and Championship
NHL teams playing somewhere in colder climates
You could even make a case for NFL Draft conversation
With all of this activity I am convinced that this is the greatest week for sports. Your thoughts?
Chris Mack will be Xavier's Next Coach
The recent loss of Sean Miller takes a huge hit on Xavier men's basketball, but can you blame him fore leaving? Arizona is a good opportunity and overall I don't think he left for the money, he left so he could better himself and coach a prestigious program that has been to 25 consecutive NCAA tournaments. I wish Coach Miller all the best and won't sulk over his loss like many fans will. He put up a 120-47 record while at Xavier over a 5-year span. He's the only coach in Xavier history that can say he took the team to one elite eight and one sweet sixteen. Chris Mack in my opinion will be Xavier's next head coach and I said that before Miller even left. Xavier likes to hire from within and Mack has assisted Miller for his entire tenure as head coach at Xavier. Is this a good move.... I think so because Mack helped recruit the players on Xavier's current roster, a team that has been projected by many to be a possible preseason top-10 team next year. If Mack is named the head coach I believe the players on the current roster and coming in will stay and won't think twice about transferring. People need to remember Miller was an assistant as well under Thad Matta, like Mack was under Miller. Before assisting Miller, Mack was an assistant for three seasons under Skip Prosser. Click Here to learn more about Chris Mack, including his honors and history during his playing days at Xavier.
As fellow nkysportsworld blogger Adam mentioned in a previous post Xavier isn't considered to be a highly sought after coaching position but is a way for coaches to build their resumes and work their way up the coaching ranks in college basketball. Think of the coaches before Miller (Matta, Prosser, Gillen, etc.) all left for bigger programs and more money. One thing is to blame for this.... playing in what is considered to be a weak conference. If Xavier was in the Big 12, Big East, Big 10, etc. would Miller have left, no way. You can have the best facility in the world, the best fans, best administration and that all doesn't matter if you don't play in a big conference. Look how much trouble Memphis had trying to find a replacement for Calipari. They know they're a big name in college basketball but they were seeking top coaches from top conferences. They ended up going with one of their own Josh Pastner, just like Xavier will go from within with Mack.
Opening Day Thoughts
Today marks one of the best days in the City of Cincinnati. Opening day is like new years here in the Queen City (for more ways than one.) On this day Baseball is here, the King of Cincinnati has returned. Or at least that is what it used to be. The Reds are tied for first place in the Division and sniffing for a playoff spot. We don't know if we can say that in June, July, August or September but we know in April we are right near the top. Opening day brings a lot of excitement for the team, which unfortunately typically fizzles out by early June. But this year may be different. There is a young nucleus of talent on this roster that can really make some noise.
*Micah Owings was named the 5th starter in the Reds rotation rounding out making our Top 5: Aaron Harang, Edinson Volquez, Johnny Cueto, Bronson Arroyo, Micah Owings. Not bad at all, there is some real talent there. Arroyo is suffering from Carpal Tunnel and has been shelled his last few outings but there is always Homer Bailey waiting in the wings, who really turned it up and just missed making the team this season for opening day.
*One of the more questioned roster moves the Reds made was sending Jonny Gomes to AAA. Don't expect Gomes to stay there long, he should have made the Major league club in my opinion.
Opening day roster:
Jerry Hairston Jr. lf
Darnell McDonald cf
Joey Votto 1b
Brandon Phillips 2b
Jay Bruce rf
Edwin Encarnacion 3b
Ramon Hernandez c
Alex Gonzalez ss
Aaron Harang p
I am hopeful that this season will be the year that the Reds turn it around.
*Micah Owings was named the 5th starter in the Reds rotation rounding out making our Top 5: Aaron Harang, Edinson Volquez, Johnny Cueto, Bronson Arroyo, Micah Owings. Not bad at all, there is some real talent there. Arroyo is suffering from Carpal Tunnel and has been shelled his last few outings but there is always Homer Bailey waiting in the wings, who really turned it up and just missed making the team this season for opening day.
*One of the more questioned roster moves the Reds made was sending Jonny Gomes to AAA. Don't expect Gomes to stay there long, he should have made the Major league club in my opinion.
Opening day roster:
Jerry Hairston Jr. lf
Darnell McDonald cf
Joey Votto 1b
Brandon Phillips 2b
Jay Bruce rf
Edwin Encarnacion 3b
Ramon Hernandez c
Alex Gonzalez ss
Aaron Harang p
I am hopeful that this season will be the year that the Reds turn it around.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Sean Miller to talk with Arizona Athletic Director
Recent Rumor: Xavier coach Sean Miller is expected to meet Arizona athletic director Jim Livengood in Albuquerque, N.M., on Sunday to discuss the Wildcats' opening, according to a source. The source said Miller was scheduled to board a private plane Sunday morning en route to Albuquerque, where he was expected to meet with Livengood about the Wildcats' opening.
Miller is currently earning in the neighborhood of $800,000 per season. Arizona, according to sources, has a multi-year deal worth more than $2 million per season on the table.
However, Xavier athletic director Mike Bobinski told the Cincinnati Enquirer on Sunday that the Musketeers were prepared to make a counteroffer -- if necessary.
Kentucky coach John Calipari, a good friend of Miller's, said the coach is wrestling with the same things Calipari was in deciding whether to leave Memphis for the Bluegrass state.
___________________________________________________________________
Being a Xavier fan, I would have to be naive to think that Miller wouldn't leave the Muskies and the A-10 for Arizona and the PAC-10. I would like Miller to stay obviously as I think he's one of the best young coaches in the game today but I think he may leave for Arizona.... and would definitely leave if the Connecticut job opened up. Mike Bobinski better start looking for a replacement soon, I know that he's high on assistant Chris Mack but I still don't know if he's a long-term answer.
I know Miller will make the right decision but there's so many things you have to contemplate when deciding to switch schools. He's never really recruited out west and Arizona really doesn't have any big names set for the 2009 or 2010 class yet, plus they will probably lose several players from this years team to the draft.
If Miller leaves at least he will leave with the current team in a good situation, depending on whether his incoming class stays put if the move occurs. So many programs fall apart after coaching changes and have to start from scratch and although they'll run into some trouble I don't think it will have the same affect on them as other schools such as UK and UC have had after coaching changes.
Miller is currently earning in the neighborhood of $800,000 per season. Arizona, according to sources, has a multi-year deal worth more than $2 million per season on the table.
However, Xavier athletic director Mike Bobinski told the Cincinnati Enquirer on Sunday that the Musketeers were prepared to make a counteroffer -- if necessary.
Kentucky coach John Calipari, a good friend of Miller's, said the coach is wrestling with the same things Calipari was in deciding whether to leave Memphis for the Bluegrass state.
___________________________________________________________________
Being a Xavier fan, I would have to be naive to think that Miller wouldn't leave the Muskies and the A-10 for Arizona and the PAC-10. I would like Miller to stay obviously as I think he's one of the best young coaches in the game today but I think he may leave for Arizona.... and would definitely leave if the Connecticut job opened up. Mike Bobinski better start looking for a replacement soon, I know that he's high on assistant Chris Mack but I still don't know if he's a long-term answer.
I know Miller will make the right decision but there's so many things you have to contemplate when deciding to switch schools. He's never really recruited out west and Arizona really doesn't have any big names set for the 2009 or 2010 class yet, plus they will probably lose several players from this years team to the draft.
If Miller leaves at least he will leave with the current team in a good situation, depending on whether his incoming class stays put if the move occurs. So many programs fall apart after coaching changes and have to start from scratch and although they'll run into some trouble I don't think it will have the same affect on them as other schools such as UK and UC have had after coaching changes.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Sean Miller Rumors Continue
This week Xavier men's basketball coach Sean Miller has been linked to two high-profile openings, Arizona and Memphis:Arizona Rumor
Arizona has initiated conversations with Sean Miller in an attempt to see whether the rising star at Xavier will entertain an offer that could be worth more than $13 million spread over six years, a source close to the Arizona program told CBSSports.com on Friday.
Memphis Rumor
Unlike the Arizona rumor no financials have been discussed but many rumors have been floating around Sean Miller and Bruce Pearl. Miller seems to be the right choice here. He's at a non-BCS school and has been a very good coach at Xavier in his tenure there, going 120-47. His Musketeers actually beat the Tigers early in the 2008-09 season. He's been to the Sweet 16 and the Elite 8 the last two seasons and appears to be a young coaching star.
Personally I don't see either of these happening, if any Arizona would be more likely because they play in a power conference. Switching from Xavier to Memphis would be an odd move for Miller because like Xavier they're a mid-major (i.e. Conference USA). Memphis is almost just like Xavier as it also has nice facilities, is at the top of their conference on a consistent basis, and has had recent success in the big dance. This would be a step back for Miller.
Arizona would be the more likely of the two but I don't see it happening. It can't be about the money because he wouldn't be making much more at Arizona than he is right now if the financials rumored are true.
Now if Jamie Dixon were to leave Pittsburgh to go out west (i.e. Arizona) then I could see Miller leaving for his Alma mater but I don't see Dixon leaving a big name program from the toughest conference in college basketball.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
2009 MLB Predictions
Its time to embarass ourselves once again. Its always fun to go back and look at your predictions and wonder, what the hell was I thinking? So, never afraid to look like the fool, here are my 2009 MLB predictions.
AL Central
1. Red Sox
2. Rays 5 GB *
3. Yankees 7
4. Orioles 26
5. Blue Jays 28
AL Central
1. White Sox
2. Tigers 3
3. Twins 4
4. Indians 7
5. Royals 11
AL West
1. Athletics
2. Angels 2
3. Mariners 14
4. Rangers 16
NL East
1. Phillies
2. Mets 6
3. Marlins 10
4. Braves 10
5. Nationals 24
NL Central
1. Cubs
2. Cardinals 8
3. Reds 10
4. Brewers 13
5. Astros 19
6. Pirates 21
NL West
1. Dodgers
2. Giants 2 *
3. D-Backs 4
4. Rockies 16
5. Padres 25
*Wild Card Team
Boston Red Sox defeat the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series.
AL MVP - Miguel Cabrera (Tigers)
AL Cy Young - Jon Lester (Red Sox)
NL MVP - Manny Ramirez (Dodgers)
NL Cy Young - Tim Lincecum (Giants)
I think the Reds will be better and will compete through mid August but then fade. I think our season depends on what the guy up top can do for us, Wily Taveras. Some of these other divisions are wide open. You could have picked any one of those 5 teams in the AL Central to win the division. There are 4 contenders in the NL East and who knows who will be left out between the Yankees, Rays, and Red Sox. Tough call. Obviously my surprise picks are the A's and Giants making the playoffs.
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