🏀 KuBuckets Archive

The are we done thread is getting a little long so I figured I'd make another general thread.

2019 really looks like it could be special.

I saw an article about Cassius Stanley staying open where his dad talked about how they were taking a different approach to recruiting and that they want the school to be a "respectable institution". KU was mentioned along with USC, OU and UT as the schools on him hardest.

Then a fairly knowledgeable KU poster makes a thread and says that he heard from a colleague in the LA area that Stanley and his dad both like KU quite a bit.

For those unaware this kid is absolutely an NBA talent. Top 10 in a strong class. 6'5'' 180lb guard.

It's going to be tough to get Stanley out of LA, especially with the run USC has been on (probably not all above board.) I think for 19 we take four or five guys, since we'll need to replace Grimes, Vick/Langford, Dedric, and probably Udoka. Outside chance Dotson is a OAD too. So far, it looks like Zach Harvey (Topeka Hayden product) really likes KU. A good friend of mine who coaches in Hayden's league says he has a ways to go to put it all together, but he has a chance to be an absolute stud. Zach already plays a lot like a PG, but needs to become a better all-around player, especially as a shooter. Stanley may be an option, as well as RJ Hampton (5* 6-4 PG from Texas). He's 2020 now, but probably could reclassify if he keeps his nose to the grindstone academically. A lot of folks forget, but we also have Markese Jacobs committed. I think he also has a ways to go to become a true PG, but that's not unusual for a HS junior.

As far as bigs, Chandler Lawson and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl are really the only two names to keep an eye on. I'm sure the staff would love a Matt Hurt, but they won't tell Lawson or JRE no. Each of those guys could pop pretty early for KU. You know KJ and Dedric will keep recruiting little bro if things go well for them here.

Marcus Garrett will have the wing spot on lockdown for the next 3 years (like he does the rest of the Big 12) so don't look for a ton of action at the wing. Along with Stanley, I know KU likes Malik Hall out of Sunrise in Wichita and Samuell Williamson from TX for depth. Numbers will dictate whether KU takes either of them. 2019 is kind of a luxury class. The starters will be pretty much set (Dotson, Moore, Garrett, Silvio, McCormack) but we can upgrade at the 2 and 5. Wouldn't be surprised if we ended up with something like Dotson, Harvey, Garrett, JRE, De Sousa. That's another potential title team.

@FarmerJayhawk Agree strongly about USC.

RJ Hampton is an exciting player and I hope he ends up at KU. I think he makes more sense in the 2020 class though.

Overall very solid analysis. I think a class of Jacobs, Harvey, JRE, Lawson makes the most sense. Add another player for depth if needed depending on the scholarship situation.

BShark said:

RJ Hampton is an exciting player and I hope he ends up at KU. I think he makes more sense in the 2020 class though.

Overall very solid analysis. I think a class of Jacobs, Harvey, JRE, Lawson makes the most sense. Add another player for depth if needed depending on the scholarship situation.

I agree. I'm also not convinced he plays a minute in college. OAD may be toast for the class of 19, in which case, A LOT of guys that were KU locks may look elsewhere. You'll have Dook and UK calling up Lawson and JRE since the top 10 guys will be off to the NBA. It also could impact next year's guys on whether they're OAD or not. Do you go in the 19 draft where you also have to compete with the top HS guys in that class, or wait?

I hope Cal just hangs em up when OAD goes away. :joy:

Seriously though I would hope KU could hold on to JRE.

@BShark I could see him bolting for the NBA then. I still think he gives it one more shot, he's just waiting for the right opportunity. Not saying KU would lose JRE, but it would be tougher to hang onto him.

I don't see it with Harvey yet but if he's willing to develop for a few years then he should be a take.

Robinson-Earl is in a different league compared to him.

I would love to see us land a 6'10-7 foot type in the 19 class. I know we are after Wiseman but he's a longshot. Hopefully some other bigs pop up on the screen.

I don't think we get both Lawson & Robinson-Earl. Especially if we have Lightfoot, De Sousa and at least 1 Lawson still around. I would take Matthew Hurt's versatility over Lawson right now and I think Hurt is way more ready to contribute to a team as a freshman. Of course the Lawson connection is hard to turn down and I'm not going to complain if he's apart of the class. What position is Chandler going to play. He's got those extremely long arms and can shoot a little bit but needs to put on some weight if he's going to be a post

If we had the need Ashton Hagans would be the PG I would target in that class. Seems like Kentucky has put in work for him though.

KU is still recruiting Achiuwa & Christian Brown I believe. Longshots but both can play

Stanley is a stud, an absolute want if Grimes is a OAD.

Malik Hall should be a take no matter what. Size at the wing position is a great thing to have.

Realistically in 2019 we could have 8 guys back. We have Jacobs signed so far. That's 9.

So how do you fill the class up.

We will have two small guards (Moore & Jacobs). Dotson, Garrett, Cunliffe, KJ Lawson makes 6 potential Guard/Wings.

Lightfoot, De Sousa, McCormack in the post.

We could get away with a Robinson-Earl, Harvey, Hall trifecta if the 8 returning have developed. Otherwise I'm sure Self will be prioritizing guys ranked higher then Harvey & Hall to fill out the rest of the class. Unless those two continue to climb the charts.

@BeddieKU23 I've checked and it looks like Harvey is dropping in the rankings - -I think he has dropped to 34th now or lower possibly, being a Kansas kid would be cool if he could make it - -just not sure in the end run of Coach ends up making him a priority or like you say more then likely goes after the bigger fish, unless He steps it up a notch. - - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@jayballer54

Yeah I'm not surprised he's dropped some. I view him similarly to Lightfoot in that if he gets into the system and sticks around he could be good in the later part of his career. You need those guys in your system. There will be opportunities for playing time down the road for him especially after his freshman year. We are looking at Cunliffe & Lawson graduating & Garrett will be a Sr if he makes it all 4 seasons here. Of course this is down the road but if we are projecting what players might be joining in our 19 class its important to look at who's potentially going to be starting/leaving that year.

@BeddieKU23

If things go well with Dedric and KJ, I think Chandler is an automatic take. Where he plays is interesting. I think he is skilled enough to be a wing. Probably a mix of the 3 and 4.

I've really liked Malik Hall's game from when I first saw KU was recruiting but I'm not sure how he fits in. Someone will have to end up elsewhere. It's obvious there is interest both ways here, as he has visited multiple times.

Then you factor in Jalen Wilson who KU offered recently and is really good. Also you take him 100% if it gets you RJ Hampton.

Could KU add 3 versatile wings? That seems like a tough sell but who knows.

I don't think we add a true center type. Going to battle with SO (JR?) De Sousa and SO McCormack is probably fine though. Then a mix of JRE/KJ/SR Mitch at the 4.

I'm interested to see how this all shakes out, but it's pretty far off for now.

What's everyone's general opinion of the 19 class so far?

I think it lacks star power right now but has more post depth then the 18 class has. The Top 10-15 in the 2018 class are rock solid and I don't see that with this 19 class just yet. Of course we are talking kids that are just now becoming Jr's but usually by now there are a few standouts and I'm not sure really anyone has separated themselves at this moment.

@BShark

Yeah Chandler is someone that we have to give a long look based on the family. There isn't a ton of video out there on him but his early stuff looks like he has a while to go before becoming a finished product. He feels like one of those Kentucky athletes that has no clue what's he doing yet. But you take him because he's got a ton of potential and with what we should have back he won't be forced into a pressure situation.

Forgot about Wilson. Another good wing we have a chance with. I prefer Hall a little more from what I've seen of both to date.

Robinson-Earl if De Sousa's timeline is less then 4 years we are talking our Starting PF by Soph year.

Will be interesting to see how this class shapes up. A big positive is we are already looking ahead instead of being consumed with 18 kids still.

Yeah what a fun feeling.

I see JRE as immediately being the #3 post player in the rotation. Maybe even starts next to De Sousa depending on McCormack's development.

Harvey is in an interesting situation. He's a good player, but the HS he goes to doesn't do a great job of developing guards. The only hope is that his AAU team can help him develop more as a guard, because I don't think he will get much from his HS coaches.

As a result, it's hard to prioritize him if you're KU, even though he is a Kansas kid. He probably won't be as far along as some other players in different situations, so the choice is to take a kid that might need an additional year (a tough sell for a 6-4 player) of development, or take a kid that's a bit further along on the development curve. His HS doesn't run a lot of PnR or drive and kick type of action, and those are the two areas he needs the most development work on. Maybe that changes this season for him. I haven't seen any reports yet, but I think he's only played once so far this season.

@BShark

Agreed JRE is going to play as a freshman. He's going to be a good College Big

@BeddieKU23 I'm not really sure how others feel 100% BUT me myself , I really want Robinson Earl. - -To me from the high lights I've seen he looks pretty aggressive , I like that - -I want that - -aggressive guys. - just like his game.

So here I say that as of this moment , I'm now starting my campaign for Robinson earl like I did with Devon. - - I'm gonna say this even though SOME started giving me hell about calling Devon my boy ( we gotta squelch that ) - -But here again Robinson earl is my personal goal , for 2019 - - my boy. So as of today mark it down yes I'm sayin He for sure will land here. - -Yes the CB ha him 100% KU - -But it also had my other boy Devon -100% for KU for the longest time then came some drama - -but not to worry He will be here lol. - -

So let it be written - - So let it be done. - - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@justanotherfan I reckon since with me being right here in Topeka - -I ought to go Check him out. - -We used to have some real battles with them in football and Basketball - maybe I need to put that on my list of things to do lol. - - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@jayballer54 You have nothing to worry about with JRE. He could very well make it official this year.

He is a top priority. The KU staff will be over to watch his game on Friday.

@jayballer54

I'm pretty sure JRE is already a commit just going through the motions and enjoying being recruited by others like Iowa & UNC before making it official. I would be absolutely stunned if he wasn't apart of our class. I think he'll pop for KU well before next season's signing period

@BeddieKU23 It's the worst kept secret around local AAU ball.

There is also waiting to announce so that your team mates get looks. That's definitely a thing that happens sometimes.

JRE = Robinson-Earl?

KUSTEVE said:

JRE = Robinson-Earl?

yes sir

We should get acquainted with this kid's game. He likes KU a lot.

Has good size. Will be interesting to see if he's a priority

There is a chance both these players are Hawks. Williamson had 31 and 15 in this game. He will continue to climb the rankings imo.

Of note: Creighton and Missouri both had their head coach at Zach Harvey's last game, KU didn't have anyone there. I think Creighton might be a very legit option here.

11 in black was nice and 13 was okay, but the rest of the team were scrubs. It would be hard to evaluate top talent. It’s easy to see who is d1 talent on the court, they stick out. It’s figuring out how they stack up against each other while they are playing inferior talent. Kinda like KUs early schedule. Ranked 2 and blowing everyone out until the talent gap is less, then you get to see what you have.

BShark said:

Of note: Creighton and Missouri both had their head coach at Zach Harvey's last game, KU didn't have anyone there. I think Creighton might be a very legit option here.

I'm really beginning to wonder how much interest KU has in Harvey at this point, I used to think he was a lock, but I'm beginning to think maybe more interest on his part and not KU's part.

Maybe I'm not right but you know what - I wouldn't be just big time devastated if Zach ended up somewhere else. I mean ya a Kansas kid - -good talent - -even more a hometown kid, same city I'm in BUT I rally think we are going to be fine at that position in 2019 and like I stated when I noticed I believe - -it looks like he has slipped some in the rankings To me it just isn't the same type of scenario as if we wouldn't of ended up not landing Devon - -we hadn't landed him - -THEN I would of been crushed- -not the case with Zach.

Again I really believe KU might be backing off of Zach. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

BShark said:

Of note: Creighton and Missouri both had their head coach at Zach Harvey's last game, KU didn't have anyone there. I think Creighton might be a very legit option here.

On another note aside of Zach - - it's kind of like there are some other people from other KU sites about to wet all over themselves cause Vanderbilt & Indiana had Coach or assistants watching Romeo the other night at his game and KU wasn't represented by anyone. - -People crappin out little green nuggets thinking/saying - Oh you don't think Romeo see's that? - To which another poster said - -you don't think Romeo knows who is interested in him and who isn''t? - Doesn't mean they have to watch him EVERY single game - -he knows KU is interested - -very interested - just so happens they said KU had their ballgame on that particular night. - -As the great Aaron Rodgers says - -I'll repeat to people - - -R - -E - -L - - A - -X Romeo knows how interested we are, not being to ONE game isn't going to change the out come of his recruitment. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

dylans said:

11 in black was nice and 13 was okay, but the rest of the team were scrubs. It would be hard to evaluate top talent. It’s easy to see who is d1 talent on the court, they stick out. It’s figuring out how they stack up against each other while they are playing inferior talent. Kinda like KUs early schedule. Ranked 2 and blowing everyone out until the talent gap is less, then you get to see what you have.

Yeah, 11 is Sam Williamson, KU legacy. The kid can shoot it for sure. The white team has much more D1 talent. Devion Harmon is a top 50 recruit this year who is committed to OU. Of course Jalen Wilson, a top 50 talent next year that KU is recruiting. They also have a 2018 post player who is committed to Georgetown.

Sam really showed out this summer against better competition. He went from his offers being the likes of Incarnate Word, Abilene Christian, UTSA etc... to being offered by KU, TAMU, LSU, TCU, OU, Marquette.

@jayballer54 What Harvey has to weigh is likely starting immediately at somewhere like Creighton vs probably taking a development year in his first year at KU.

@BShark Ballock kid is doing great. Hi bb iq, more athletic than I knew, shoots well.

Crimsonorblue22 said:

@BShark Ballock kid is doing great. Hi bb iq, more athletic than I knew, shoots well.

I was hoping he'd pick KU. KU definitely wanted him, but he felt he would play more at Creighton early on!

Definitely wanted Ballock. Looks like he found a good situation though

Turned on and watched some High School ball tonight. - -Turned out it was Memphis East playing Webster Groves out of Missouri - -the kid Carte that signed to St louis - was playing BUT

Memphis East is ranked # 1 now and both of the younger Lawson's play on it Chandler and Johnathan . - - Plus James Wiseman also plays on Memphis East - -kid is a monster. - come to find out Penny Hardaway is the Coach of Memphis East - how cool is that?

By the way Memphis East won the game 80-45, but one of Webster Groves studs that's a commit to a D-1 school - - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@jayballer54 East Memphis PG Alex Lomax is signed to play at Wichita next year. James looked like a man playing against boys. Rebounded and dunked at will. 6' 11" and shoots a pretty good three. He would look real good playing with Dave and De Silvio. Probably a very long shot for that possibility with the Lawsons in play also.

@jayballer54 Travis Ford still at St. Louis?

@Crimsonorblue22 Yes he is.

@Big-Clyde52 saw them play last year once, huge step down!

@jayballer54 On second thought, if Dedric only stays one year, maybe Mr. Wiseman could come in and play with Dave and Silvio. Would we rather have Wiseman or Hurt? Either one would be fine with me.

@Big-Clyde52

Wiseman is being heavily pursued by Kentucky. KU should get a visit too hopefully if he makes it that far.

Big Clyde52 said:

@jayballer54 On second thought, if Dedric only stays one year, maybe Mr. Wiseman could come in and play with Dave and Silvio. Would we rather have Wiseman or Hurt? Either one would be fine with me.

Oh I think I would rather have Wiseman. - I just think he has a better physical presence, Don't think it will matter with Wiseman though as from what I am hearing good ol Kentucky is pretty heavy on him. East Memphis has a pretty loaded team. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

I'm going to summarize our chances with Wiseman in one word: SWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSH.

BShark said:

I'm going to summarize our chances with Wiseman in one word: SWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSH.

But maaaaaybeee we get one of his free visits???

BeddieKU23 said:

BShark said:

I'm going to summarize our chances with Wiseman in one word: SWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSH.

But maaaaaybeee we get one of his free visits???

Mercy kid can ball. - -really fluid. the kid that I was trying to think of that didn't play for Webster grove last night that is legit D-1 is named Remy I believe. He has a broke wrist? - -hand? - he plays with Carte on Webster Grove- -he might of made a little difference BUT Memphis East with Penny as Coach - -yea.- that team is loaded including the Lawson Brothers mercy. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@jayballer54

Wiseman has few challenges in HS. There's a good chance he ends up the #1 kid in his class.

BeddieKU23 said:

BShark said:

I'm going to summarize our chances with Wiseman in one word: SWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSH.

But maaaaaybeee we get one of his free visits???

Probably. Fortunately I don't think it really impacts anything. So not a situation where staying in with him would hurt with JRE or Chandler.

Wiseman is my #1 in 2019, and I’m not sure it’s that close. If he has to go to college, he’s going to Kentucky. We’ll still have Silvio, Dave, and probably JRE. Really good chance at Lawson too. I bet we make Wiseman’s final 5, maybe even 3, but I’d be stunned if he came to KU.

Latest 247 rankings:

Kansas bound recruits Quentin Grimes, Devon Dotson, Silvio De Sousa and David McCormack are once again considered to be among the top 50 player in the country in the newly updated 2018 Top 247 rankings. Evan Daniels, Josh Gershon, Brian Snow and Jerry Meyer are the four National Recruiting Analyst that put together the Top 247 rankings.

The highest ranked Kansas signee is G Quentin Grimes. Grimes did fall one spot at #13 overall and the #2 combo guard in the class. Devon Dotson climbed one spot to #19 and the #4 overall PG in the class. PF Silvio De Sousa fell a bit to #38 after previously being ranked #26 overall. De Sousa comes in as the #7 ranked PF in the class. C David McCormack also fell a bit in the rankings after previously being ranked #29 overall. McCormack is now ranked #47 overall and is the #6 ranked C in the class.

With the release of the updated Top 247 2018 rankings the Kansas Jayhawks once again jumped up to #1 in the 2018 team rankings. The Jayhawks currently have two five-star recruits and two four-star recruits in the class. Quentin Grimes and Devon Dotson make up the two five-star recruits with rankings of 13 and 19. Silvio De Sousa and David McCormack are the two four-star recruits in the class with rankings of 38 and 47.

Kansas is looking to add to its already top ranked class with either #3 ranked Zion Williamson or #5 ranked Romeo Langford. If the Jayhawks add either prospect to their class the Jayhawks will likely have the #1 ranked class in 2018 all locked up.

https://247sports.com/Bolt/Kansas-has-the-1-ranked-recruiting-class-in-the-country-112274647 ↗

Still not sure why people are considering Grimes a combo guard. He's a PG. Perhaps they just don't want to make him a PG because of his size.

@justanotherfan or because we already have Dotson and Moore. Don't need three point guards necessarily though it is nice to have a guy who can handle the rock and direct in an emergency

Grimes is more of a PG than Moore IMO.

@HawkChamp

The recruiting analysts shouldn't be considering where different guys sign to determine their position. Grimes plays on the ball for his HS team. He plays on the ball for his AAU team. Of course, because of his size, he can move off the ball, and he is a dynamic scorer off the ball. But he's effectively a big PG, and that's where his future (NBA) is.

https://247sports.com/Player/Jeremy-Roach-46035780 ↗

New 2020 name.

@BShark

Looks like an East Coast destination.

@justanotherfan Ok, so let's say we start Dotson at point, then Grimes as a 2, and let's say we'd have Garrett at the 3. Can you imagine how good our ball handling could be with 3 point guards on the floor? All 3 of those guys played point guard in high school. Then we'd have Cunliffe and Moore that have played point in the mix as well. We have the potential of having a potentially great ball handling team. The Lawson brothers are known for defense. Garrett is known for defense. Cunliffe is on the way to being very good defensively - next year's team could be the best defensive team we've had in a long time. It will have more depth than I can remember. It will be a very young team, but they should be absolute studs defensively.

JayHawkFanToo said:

@BShark

Looks like an East Coast destination.

Yeah, it doesn't seem likely that he ends up at KU.

Hadn't been too much attention due to the holidays. Apparently Ashton Hagans committed to Georgia. WOW.

https://247sports.com/Player/Ashton-Hagans-93920 ↗

@BShark Looks like a stud, but doesn’t seem like KU was ever in the game. Probably going to be hard to sign top ‘19 guards with Dotson and Moore on the roster. (I assume Grimes will be gone.) But a top wing should happen hopefully.

Romeo in ‘18 would be fantastic too. I just don’t know who is going to leave to open up that roster spot.

@dylans Oh yeah I never considered that he would go to KU. The squid was hot and heavy on him though (at one point, the cb predictions were all UK and UK was going to a fair number of his games), so now he will have to look elsewhere. I would guess Tyrese Maxey as it will be tough to pull Antoine away from Duke.

My heart is really breaking for Calipari. NOT.

@BShark

Don't understand that one. Wouldn't be surprised to see him end up at Kentucky before it's all said and done. I think he's by far the best pg in the 19 class

@BeddieKU23 I hope not, but I could see it too. Generally we don't see many decommits. This year was a big exception of course due to the FBI crap.

Also Cole Anthony is pretty good. It's a pretty big drop-off after Lamelo Ball and of course he shouldn't even really be considered because no one wants the mess of Lavar at this point.

I'll never count Calipari out for anyone but Anthony would be an extremely tough pull so if Hagans stays solid with UGA and he can't pull Maxey then Calipari might develop some back aches.

@BShark

It just seems like a out of the blue decision. Georgia could have a new coach by the time he gets there. I'm surprised he announced this early

KU made the final 5 for https://247sports.com/Player/Onyeka-Okongwu-88727 ↗

Probably gonna be a Bruin

Well read where our boy Quentin went off for 44 points & 9 rebounds the other night, the team lost but he had 44.

When he was asked what or how KU was wanting to use him he stated just said they wanted to use him both a lot on the ball & off the ball.. He said he feels like he can guard the 1 - -2 - -or 3.

When asked what excites him most about playing at KU? - -He stated just the chance to play for a Hall of Fame Coach Bill Self , wants to be able to pick his brain about work ethic - says KU has produced some really good guards and brought up Marion Chalmers name , can't wait ti see him on the floor. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

BShark said:

KU made the final 5 for https://247sports.com/Player/Onyeka-Okongwu-88727 ↗

Probably gonna be a Bruin

I hadn't or didn't realize we were recruiting him, but made the final 5. - -Your right though the CB shows him at 100% UCLA - or if not with the other Schools listed looks like he wants to stay close to the coast back West. - - Arizona St , UCLA ,USC , Washington, & KU - -all Pac 12 other then us. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

I was messing around with numbers this morning, and came up with what I think is the most likely scenario for the next two seasons. !alt text ↗

HMMM , I don't know looks pretty good just wonder though about Vick coming back for his SR yr. - - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@Jayballer54 he’ll be back unless he has a first round grade. Which he doesn’t have yet. That could change. If he does, I think we land Langford.

FarmerJayhawk said:

@Jayballer54 he’ll be back unless he has a first round grade. Which he doesn’t have yet. That could change. If he does, I think we land Langford.

I agree 100% about if vick goes. I think possibly it was you that some time back brought forth that this is what Langford was waiting on -- to see if Vick went pro or not, makes perfect sense. With Indiana or Vanderbilt no reason for him to wait, if he was going to sign with them why wouldn't he just go ahead and commit?

I just think the way it's going if he has a solid year and progress with any degree at all I just believe he will leave - - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

I did see Vick in the first round in one NBA mock ...
http://www.nbadraft.net/2018mock_draft ↗

@KUSTEVE the key to deep March runs is defense. Been a long time since Self has fielded a good defensive team. I'm looking forward to it.

Grimes expects to OAD. I hope he plays to that level at KU. Time will tell. I’d sure like to see high level play for more than one year out of a guy before he feels the need to get paid. The NBA drafting mostly on potiental makes it detrimental to stay in college too long for freak athletes.

@dylans Well that Grimes thing didn't start my day off well. I looked at 2019 mocks, didn't see him, but got to the ESPN mock and sure enough, they have him #8. Langford is there too, at #9.

https://247sports.com/Gallery/ESPN-releases-first-2019-NBA-Mock-Draft-108163016/GallerySlides/704606 ↗

@HighEliteMajor lol Don’t shoot the messenger. Grimes said he doesn’t expect to be in college to play with Markese in a recent interview. So I’m just reading between the lines.

I’m just trying to adjust my expectations. I still remember being peeved that Pierce left after his Jr. year.

@dylans Seems like you've got the right read. The expecting thing with the recruits is one thing -- but when a guy pops up at #8 in a mock, that sucks (selfishly). I guess I was a little clueless that Grimes was in the presumed OAD category. Hope he's a world beater.

Grimes is good enough to be OAD. We'll see if he's really the type I haven't been this excited for a guard signee in a long time

@BeddieKU23

@BShark

BMac with more aggressive nature to the hoop. So much more advanced then Ben was at this stage

UK going after him hard says a lot, thankfully we are KU with a HoF coach and not the likes of Arkansas or Missouri so Cal didn't swipe our legacy stud.

Zion deciding probably by the end of January. Clemson I guess? I could see him going there or UNC. Not sure we’re really in it.

@FarmerJayhawk

Makes sense, use a no name program to showcase yourself for a year

Always thought unc had a great chance because of style of play. Have to think little going there didn't help him though

@BeddieKU23 UNC would be loaded with Zion. Maye, Johnson, Woods, and a few others return. Then add Zion, Little, and Coby White. Ole Roy has something special there.

Sign me up for a KU UNC championship game next year. I'd like our odds. :grinning:

@BShark I could see that! I think KU, UNC, and UK are the best teams going into next season. Watch out for Oregon too.

Wow, read that Matthew hurt, the big man from Minnesota that we are in on for 2019. - -think je is # 4 player.

Went off for 51 points -- -17 rebounds - -5 assists - - 4 steals - - 4 blocks the other night -- The kid is averaging 40 points a game right now. = =some one asked if he jacked up a bunch of 3's - they said no just 2-4 from the 3

They ask if he was that good - -or the competition was that bad - -stated that Hurt is that good their school playing against bigger schools - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

He's a total stud and very interested in KU.

@BShark

according to Kentucky they never recruited him lol otherwise he would be a wildcat.

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

according to Kentucky they never recruited him lol otherwise he would be a wildcat.

Grimes? LOOOOOOOOOOOOL

@BShark

Just poking fun at what they usually say when they miss out on someone they really wanted. They certainly got 3 studs going their way despite Q going to KU but we arguably got the best of the bunch.

looks like Zion will announce soon, or so that's what he hinted at. - -Probably either UK or Clemson sounds like - -they think Uk is the favorite right now, although I had heard that playing close to home and family was pretty big for him. - -We will see. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

One time post target last year Schnider Herard is transferring from Miss St. Another Miss St that didn't do much while there is now on the move

Duke's Jordan Tucker is transferring as well after barely playing this season. I don't believe KU ever seriously went after him as he wanted Duke. How quickly things change.

BeddieKU23 said:

One time post target last year Schnider Herard is transferring from Miss St. Another Miss St that didn't do much while there is now on the move

Duke's Jordan Tucker is transferring as well after barely playing this season. I don't believe KU ever seriously went after him as he wanted Duke. How quickly things change.

I remember some posters, no one here, wanted to try and land him over pursuing Doke. Doke seems a liiiiittle bit better.

Weird to wait so long for an offer from the meat grinder and then transfer when you aren't getting minutes. I'm sure he is disappointed that Goldwire is playing more but Duke has a lot of similar players to Tucker this year.

I wonder where they will end up. I like Tucker long term but KU isn't looking like we will take any transfers this year.

@BShark

Wouldn't be surprised if he ended up at Syracuse. It's very weird that he's leaving so early after waiting out an offer. I think he was probably not happy Barrett & Reddish coming in next year and Joey Baker the following as well

@BeddieKU23 Fair point I wasn't thinking about incoming recruits. No way he would get any PT next year.

Ok guys, I have a question in our recruiting, and I think I already know the answer but curious to see if you think it's right or no not right. Kind of silly thought - -but still anyways my question is:

In our recruitment with Romeo , do you think how Indiana season plays out will have a pretty decent factor for Romeo? - -What I mean is - -right now as of tonight they are currently 8-6 on the season, if they continue and have a so so , do you think that would sway him in any way negative wise towards Indiana and be more of a plus for us?

If they were to just end up with an average year or underachieving year - -I feel that only helps us more, as we know its down to KU - -Indiana - -& Vanderbilt. - -If they just so and Garland not landing at Indiana - I just truly have to feel actually our biggest threat for Romeo is more Vanderbilt then Indiana right? - -Even though Indiana is that close to home school some people talking about - I just feel with Garland not committing and then if they have just that's so so season -got to help us.

I just think we could be in pretty good shape and on top of that if Vick should happen to leave I just think the combination of these things has to put us siting fairly nice wouldn't you think? - - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@Jayballer54 Looks like we could have a just so-so season ourselves. At least measured by KU standards. May be lucky to finish in the top four of the Big 12, unless the BIG help gets here fast. We are just totally outmanned and we will not hit 15 to 17 threes very often. One hope is for the balanced Big 12 to beat up on each other. But we can not lose at home again to have a chance at keeping the streak alive.

Big Clyde52 said:

@Jayballer54 Looks like we could have a just so-so season ourselves. At least measured by KU standards. May be lucky to finish in the top four of the Big 12, unless the BIG help gets here fast. We are just totally outmanned and we will not hit 15 to 17 threes very often. One hope is for the balanced Big 12 to beat up on each other. But we can not lose at home again to have a chance at keeping the streak alive.

I know exactly what your talking about and agree. - -I think at this point anyways we are probably the or about the 4th best team in the Big 12. I'm not THAT sure that even having another big last night would of helped us or not. - - Our defense is just soooooooooooooooooo pathetic , I know there will be people here that say oh well if we would of had another big we wouldn't haven't got beat on the boards like we did. - - -the last time I heard/check SEVENTEEN offensive rebounds by Tech - -SEVENTEEN. and it's not like these guys were bigger then us. The bottom line was - - -they wanted it more.

Zion Williamson to announce his decision on January 20.

http://www.thestate.com/sports/high-school/prep-basketball/article192868409.html#storylink=hpdigest ↗

Not really anything new in this article. A video not worth watching of a slo-mo dunk with talkover "Trust me. The best is yet to come" and "Jan 20" superimposed. Plus some info on his season so far (has not played since Nov 21 due to bruised foot).

Hope he picks Clemson.

@Kcmatt7 Clemson is at least ranked now, so it isn't as silly a move as people were calling it last summer. But they did lose in the FB semifinal, so the campus is not as afire as it has been the past two years. And who knows what these guys think is important?

@mayjay He looks real good going against pee-wees, not nearly as dominant against bigger and better athletes. IMO. I'll probably end up taking that statement back, but I guess all the hype has me wondering if he is as good as they say. I wonder what he would be like in a program like ours that emphasizes team first. Hmmm...

KUSTEVE said:

@mayjay He looks real good going against pee-wees, not nearly as dominant against bigger and better athletes. IMO. I'll probably end up taking that statement back, but I guess all the hype has me wondering if he is as good as they say. I wonder what he would be like in a program like ours that emphasizes team first. Hmmm...

He's dominated better competition as well. He was the best player at the Team USA camps in the fall which included Grimes and a bunch of other top ranked kids FYI. Watching his local HS competition isn't going to give you the answer you were seeking IMO.

I have long thought he'd fit here, he's not a selfish player. I think any team would be foolish not to run their offense through him because of his off the charts athleticism and physicality. We have all seen his crazy dunks but he's got a ton of skill that gets overlooked. He doesn't hunt bad shots, shoots a high % inside the arc, he knows his limits on the perimeter right now. Weight is a concern, you probably don't want him playing at 270 as he could probably be lethal at the 245-250 range. Clemson is lucky he lives in the state.

@BeddieKU23 If I am KU's recruiter, I am calling him a bunch after our TT rebounding debacle this week with lots of information about how we will be bigger next year with otherworldly point guards coming in who can feed him. We do not want Zion believing he will be forced into trying to be another undersized post player here. "Really! We have lots of size lined up! Really!"

@mayjay

I also thought signing Dotson would help us as well. That hasn't had the momentum it once had

@BeddieKU23 It could also hurt if anyone thinks Dotson could dupe Trae Young. Would OU have room this year for another OAD?

I’d be stunned if it wasn’t Clemson.

mayjay said:

@BeddieKU23 It could also hurt if anyone thinks Dotson could dupe Trae Young. Would OU have room this year for another OAD?

What?

@BShark Yeah, probably not clear.

Meant dupe=duplicate Trae's crazy year

I.e., would there be any fear on Zion's part that having Dotson would not allow Zion to reach his full potential.

@mayjay noy by me, maybe Grimes, but Zion isn’t a primary ball handler. They would play together nicely. I think Langford fits better yet. The team as a whole looks too loaded to put up Trae like numbers next season.

@mayjay

Dotson and Zion would actually complement each other nicely.

mayjay said:

@BShark Yeah, probably not clear.

Meant dupe=duplicate Trae's crazy year

I.e., would there be any fear on Zion's part that having Dotson would not allow Zion to reach his full potential.

Oh, in that case I don't think so. Dotson isn't perceived to be OAD and isn't in the same shooting stratosphere as Trae.

Dotson will be a very good player for KU though, no doubt.

https://247sports.com/player/ochai-agbaji-46042163 ↗

@BShark

He any good? As in better then his current rank?

first video i'm seeing good size and frame for a guard and a heck of an athlete. good form on his shot

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

He any good? As in better then his current rank?

Yes. Is he KU good remains to be seen, I will trust the staff's evaluation on that. He has been crushing the local scene but that's obviously a big fwiw. He's definitely a top candidate for the DiRenna (best KC area hooper).

When it's an area like KC an award like that the talent of the winner varies heavily year to year. Generally it's at least a D1 player, though I think the 2016 winner ended up at Central Missouri.

Edit: Some of the better recent past winners are Kevin Puryear, Semi Ojeleye, Alec Burks and Marcus Denmon.

@BShark

Thanks. So Norm watches to keep tabs on a localish player making some noise. I would assume an offer wouldn't seem likely until we know the fall out in the spring

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

Thanks. So Norm watches to keep tabs on a localish player making some noise. I would assume an offer wouldn't seem likely until we know the fall out in the spring

Yeah pretty much. I don't know the kid but being a late riser with his interest exploding it makes sense that he would wait now. His best offer is CSU at this point, so he can probably do better. He could definitely end up in the Big 12.

I certainly can't see him getting a committable offer from KU when Romeo is still on the table.

Always good to see back-up plans/kicking the tires. Even if the staff feels really confident about getting Romeo it's better to have players scouted that are decent options compared to totally scrambling late.

@BShark

That was my thinking in regards to Romeo. It seems any recruit brought in will be a guard(s).

@BeddieKU23 Correct. The staff definitely wants to add a guard. I can't see a big being added at all, too stacked. Even going back to the 3-2, 6 bigs (if Doke is back) is a lot.

Well for sure looks like Zion headed to Clemson - - -UK fans just you think is at the end of the world lol. - -Oh Cal has lost his touch - - these players finding out now they can go to other schools and still be lottery picks - -whats going on? - -why wouldn't these guys want to come to UK ? - -we better hope we have a lot of players returning next year - lmao - it is panic time in UK according to the fans lol.

On the serious side -- sure looks as if Zion is going to stay at home and go to Clemson. - must be a leak somewhere - -5 CB'S within the last 24 hours for him and Clemson including Meyer - - Daniels - -& Slater. -This doesn't really shock me, I mean we had that little burst -that little rant about the possibility - -BUT I think we have a lot better shot with Romeo then we ever had with Zion - -all depends on Vick like so many have mentioned.

You know the way things are shaping up we may have more back then what I/we thought next year, which could prove very interesting considering room on the roster. - I'm thinking now there is a better chance for Doke to return, - - - a some what better chance for Vick to return , & then even the possibility although still feel slim but a chance BILLY could return - unlikely but you never know with the lack of playing time this year. - -The one for sure I STILL say no way he comes back is Newman - -is he NBA? - -hell no, but I just think if anything he will go over sea's but not back here period. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

UK fans are stupid. Slater and others mentioned UK just wasn't well positioned in this class. UK fans didn't want to hear it. 2019 Cal will be back with an ultra stacked class though, then all will be right in Kentucky again.

Also it really must be something to be a Kentucky fan at this point. They have a legit NBA stud (Keldon Johnson) a probably NBA PG (Quickley) and another pretty good top 40 guard and the sky is falling.

BShark said:

UK fans are stupid. Slater and others mentioned UK just wasn't well positioned in this class. UK fans didn't want to hear it. 2019 Cal will be back with an ultra stacked class though, then all will be right in Kentucky again.

Ya I hear where your coming from about them. - It just tickles me to read from them - cause OMG how could any recruit EVER turn down UK if Cal recruited them.

They have a guy for them just like Scott off the shiver here, and they are all over his ass because now he has said he believes Zion will be going to Clemson lol - they said he just pumps them UK fans full of it all the time saying this recruit or that recruit is a lock for UK and then at the last minute he changes his pick lol.

They a screaming Cal has lost his touch - -his edge with losing out on so many big time recruits lately - -Williamson - - -Bol - - - can't remember they named 3-4 others from recent.

So tell me guy - -how you think our roster is going to shape out NEXT year. - with the way things are shaping up - the way some are playing - -Is Vick back? - -Is Doke Back ? - -Is Preston back ? - -and if they do return - how we gonna fit them into the roster? - -You want a Senior Vick back - -OR a very talented Langford? - - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@Jayballer54 I think Vick and Preston are gone, Doke could very well be back. I'd rather have a SR Vick than FR Langford.

@BShark

Preston is definitely gone. Losing basically half a season (maybe a whole one) due to the NCAA review sours guys on college hoops. You can look around college basketball. When guys aren't cleared relatively quickly, they leave, either via transfer, or straight to the pros.

I think Azuibuke is back next year. Right now, he's not ready to take on the role he would have in the NBA. Seven or eight years ago, he would absolutely be gone because he would be a lottery pick, but with the way the pro game is played now, he needs more refinement to be an effective two way player.

As for Vick, I think he has a chance to get drafted. He could certainly return, as he's not necessarily a lottery pick, but I think he would make a team next year, and could be a rotation player on a good team by his second or third year, meaning he could be in line for a nice contract before his 25th birthday, or even a big extension prior to year 4.

Preston has always been oad, imo.

I think with KU really wanting to add a guard/wing and even taking a look at local guys it says Vick is very likely gone.

@BShark I don't want any softness coming back. If you asked me a month ago, absolutely give me SR. Vick.

But not anymore. He is as soft as anyone. Svi has more steals per game than him. He is the most athletic player on the team and yet and average defender and a streaky offensive player that can't create his own shot.

Bring on a new group. I watched Creighton the other night, and Mitchell Ballock would be getting time on this team just because he plays so damn tough.

This team is soft, move on from everyone we possibly can.

@BShark Do you think the staff is confident about landing Romeo?

BShark said:

Preston has always been oad, imo.

I think with KU really wanting to add a guard/wing and even taking a look at local guys it says Vick is very likely gone.

  I for sure thought he was gone - and still think more of a chance he is then not, which in turn I feel leads us to a very legit chance with Romeo. - I try not to get ahead of myself as for as roster goes, wanting a really successful season this year - -BUT MAN - -and even more so if Doke comes back next year and then if we are fortunate enough to get Langford -  -that roster would just be insane.

KJ & Dedric Lawson - - McCormack - - De Sosua - - -Doke - - Lightfoot - - Cunliffe - - -then you would have - - Garrett - -- Moore - - Dotson - - -Grimes - - & Langford -I mean JUMPIN - -GEE - -HOSSA - - FATS man - -that is just nuts lol -- -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

dylans said:

@BShark Do you think the staff is confident about landing Romeo?

I myself think the staff feels very confident in Romeo. - think it is for sure either us or Vandy. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

Kcmatt7 said:

@BShark I don't want any softness coming back. If you asked me a month ago, absolutely give me SR. Vick.

But not anymore. He is as soft as anyone. Svi has more steals per game than him. He is the most athletic player on the team and yet and average defender and a streaky offensive player that can't create his own shot.

Bring on a new group. I watched Creighton the other night, and Mitchell Ballock would be getting time on this team just because he plays so damn tough.

This team is soft, move on from everyone we possibly can.

I think some SR leadership would help. Having guys around that know Self's system. He would definitely help next year's team. I think he is gone anyway so it doesn't matter.

Ballock was a tough miss. Kid wanted to play and just didn't see it happening at KU early. I'm not sure he'd be seeing minutes. I guess it depends on who KU wouldn't have added to the roster if Ballock was here instead.

Next year's team should be tougher. The Lawsons, Dotson and Garrett are all very tough players with "want to". McCormack is a battler too but I don't think he plays a ton next season.

@Jayballer54 Can Devonte’ take a redshirt now and play next year?!? That would put them over the top next season, (but would destroy this years team :( ).

Jayballer54 said:

BShark said:

Preston has always been oad, imo.

I think with KU really wanting to add a guard/wing and even taking a look at local guys it says Vick is very likely gone.

  I for sure thought he was gone - and still think more of a chance he is then not, which in turn I feel leads us to a very legit chance with Romeo. - I try not to get ahead of myself as for as roster goes, wanting a really successful season this year - -BUT MAN - -and even more so if Doke comes back next year and then if we are fortunate enough to get Langford -  -that roster would just be insane.

KJ & Dedric Lawson - - McCormack - - De Sosua - - -Doke - - Lightfoot - - Cunliffe - - -then you would have - - Garrett - -- Moore - - Dotson - - -Grimes - - & Langford -I mean JUMPIN - -GEE - -HOSSA - - FATS man - -that is just nuts lol -- -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

I'd put Cunliffe in with the guards but yeah, VERY GOOD roster.

@dylans Seems like the staff is currently feeling good about Romeo, though if we start seeing KU scouting a bunch more guards/wings you'd have to say probably not. Adding one more guard/wing makes a lot of sense especially if the staff believes Vick and Newman are gone, it would require a guard in addition to Romeo to fill the roster. What we saw with Dotson and Grimes was very high confidence. The staff just let legit very good D1 players like Ayo and Carey go w/o a fight and things never really got serious with lower tier guards like Noah Locke and Montez Mathis.

dylans said:

@Jayballer54 Can Devonte’ take a redshirt now and play next year?!? That would put them over the top next season, (but would destroy this years team :( ).

LOL, no don't think that can happen seeing as how Devonte is a Senior and we are way to deep into the season for that to be a possibility even if it could. Devonte finishing out his career, we are going to be a really strong team next year for sure even without Devonte. - -I think people going to really like Devon Dotson, the kid is really quick and he loves to drive the ball. - Now is that because his outside shot needs a little work? - - possibly but he does love to attack the rim - -kind of like Frank. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

Ok so here is a question and ya, It's probably some what of a question on my part mainly out of frustration on my part but yet probably some others might be thinking the same.

With the issues we have seem to have been running into these past couple of years , with a few players , Such as being able to get De -Sousa cleared for this reason , that reason - -With Billy and a some what questionable background or whatever - then what we ended up with Cliff - -the things that we went through with Diallo.

The question becomes guys , do we dare change our recruiting analogy ? - our recruiting tactics? - Do we start to trend away from questionable players - -Foreign players ? - -questionable background players? - -even thought these might be higher profile /ranked players ? - - Do we start to focus more on the maybe not quite as highly ranked but yet very solid off the court as well as on the court type player? - -OR do we continue to attack the higher elite the OAD'S and take our chances?

Do we feel less confident about the over all scheme of a season with a little lower player, do we feel like our season and our chances would be less if we took it a notch lower . - Seems like our chances would still be pretty good with maybe still very good very solid players. - -I mean I don't think your going t hear to many complain about maybe A LITTLE less ranked player the type of such as Grimes - -Dotson - - Mc Cormack and others - -haven't heard about any issues with these guys - -Look how things turned out with a un known Frank Mason - -Devonte Graham - -hell even Vick. - -Do we maybe focus MORE on players such as this, then the if it comes about say you have an option - a top 5 elite OAD with a questionable background for one reason or another - -OR a player a little lower but still very very good and highly recruited with no questions -one or the other. Which way do you go?

I don't know. just getting a little tiresome , just don't really see a lot of other schools having as many issues as what it seems like we have ran into these last couple of yeas. - Do we need to step back and re evaluate our approach - I'm not saying concrete one way or another just curious that's all. -- ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

I think Vick is back. Just don’t see him as a first rounder right now, but will be the go to guy on the perimeter as a senior. Also keep in mind he’s not an older guy, he’s not even 21 yet. Not like he’ll be a 24 year old rookie if he stays all 4 years. Same with Doke. He just turned 18 this fall. No rush to bolt now when he’s got very obvious weaknesses that will only get more exposed in the NBA (e.g. rebounding, shot blocking, shooting).

For my money, I’d rather take a transfer this offseason that an unknown. We don’t need anymore depth next season, and some experience would be nice in 19-20. Assuming a worthy candidate is on the market, of course.

@BShark I'm not sure I want Vick to be the leader of a team. That's what worries me the most.

Teams take on a personality. Vick doesn't have a winning personality.

Give me a guy in Langford who can get to, and finish, at the rim.

Kcmatt7 said:

@BShark I'm not sure I want Vick to be the leader of a team. That's what worries me the most.

Teams take on a personality. Vick doesn't have a winning personality.

Give me a guy in Langford who can get to, and finish, at the rim.

Well, you don't want Romeo's personality either. Though with him being a FR he wouldn't be a team leader, he could just be one of the guys which I think is best for him.

Dotson is definitely leader material, it will be interesting to see how next year's team shapes up from that perspective.

One bad game doesn't change Vick's stock. He's had six 20+ games already, he's rebounded and gotten teammates involved at a higher rate then he's ever. The Tech game was a really bad taste. He simply failed to impact the game in any category. He'll have to put that game well behind him.

So some mock's have Vick in the late 1st, worst case scenario is he's probably an early 2nd type? He's never going to be a lotto pick unless he took the Mason jump as a Sr so coming back is really about just solidifying 1st round status for him. Still a ton of ball left for him to figure out where he stands.

Doke should be back. But the thoughts roaming in my head keep saying he's going to leave regardless

@BeddieKU23 I don’t see Vick going before pick 40 this year. It’s a really strong draft. The 2019 draft is a lot weaker since the 2018 class is much weaker. As far as leadership, it’s going to be a little lacking next season no matter what. Langford would just be another guy. He’s an introverted, quiet kid.

Doke isn’t even on draft boards yet. Not sure he does anything but the D League if he leaves.

No way do i see Vick going pro this year. I don't think he thinks he's ready.

I'd rather have no leadership and let the role be up for grabs than I would want someone who is clearly not an Alpha take on the role just because he is a Senior.

@FarmerJayhawk

Maybe he is a 2nd round type this year. If that's the case I'm sure he'll return. I just think projecting him back right now is premature when there is over 20+ games left for him to figure it out. He's not as limited as Svi & Graham will be going into the draft who are clearly not 1st round caliber picks. Vick has upside because of his age, his athleticism, his improved shooting, rebounding, assists etc. What would probably separate him from coming back is taking on an Alpha role and not disappearing from games like he did this week. Overall I think he still has the best chance to be a 1st rounder on the roster at the moment.

Doke has his weaknesses, he should return. I just can't get away from what he said when he signed that he wanted to be a 2 year player. Whether that changed when he got injured is the big question. I think it was Self that said he wouldn't leave after this year unless he had a 1st round guarantee which seems very unlikely. We'll see, it would be great to hold onto him for another year and have that depth again

@BeddieKU23 Doke is emotionally young too! Maybe him and Silvio will hit it off. He seems a lil detached from the others.

Crimsonorblue22 said:

@BeddieKU23 Doke is emotionally young too! Maybe him and Silvio will hit it off. He seems a lil detached from the others.

Good point. Both from Africa, can see that maybe having some influence

🐦 View Tweet

:heart_eyes:

@BShark I didn't understand any of that...........

Self to see Langford tomorrow.

https://n.rivals.com/prospect_rankings/rivals150/2018 ↗

Grimes up to #10

@BShark

He's better then the two guys in front of him. Bazley does have a ton of long term potential though at his size. Jones still gettin that Duke/brother hype I see.

Nice to see Dotson at #17

Sam Williamson up to #87 on 247 composite. Still super low on 247 at #170. Someone from Rivals is high on him as he is #48 in their new rankings. He is definitely working his way up to be a player KU would be very happy to have.

Rivals actually has him ahead of Chandler Lawson and Malik Hall whoa.

@BShark

Not surprised he's ahead of the younger Lawson. Must be having a big season

@BShark

I have noticed that some of the ranking services tend to be way behind and don't upgrade often enough to reflect current play so ranking could be way different the next update.

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

Not surprised he's ahead of the younger Lawson. Must be having a big season

Has Chandler not been having a great season? I haven't been paying too much attention.

JayHawkFanToo said:

@BShark

I have noticed that some of the ranking services tend to be way behind and don't upgrade often enough to reflect current play so ranking could be way different the next update.

Yeah I don't think 247 has done a real major update in awhile. Rivals within the last month did major 2018 and 2019 revisions.

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

Not surprised he's ahead of the younger Lawson. Must be having a big season

Has Chandler not been having a great season? I haven't been paying too much attention.

Just observing both of them I can see why Williamson is getting some attention. He can really shoot it. I just think Chandler lacks the skill that his brothers have. Don't get me wrong there is plenty of potential with him but he just screams athlete at this stage. Williamson has one really good skill already.

One time target Jarius Hamilton ended up at BC along with his brother who's transferring in. 2 for 1 deal

@BeddieKU23 Yeah he can definitely shoot it. I'd love to see him end up at KU.

I wonder if that was always part of the equation with Jairus. If it was, then it really makes sense why he ended up at BC.

I wasn't sure where to put this but so many midseason transfers now. More than I can remember. Blake Harris has left Missouri for NC State.

@BShark Nebraska is losing a sophomore big man.

Kcmatt7 said:

@BShark Nebraska is losing a sophomore big man.

Glad we don't have to be in the market this year.

I just couldn't imagine being a coach in today's game. Not a lot of loyalty, from any party. And too many opportunities for players that they really do have the upper-hand.

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 Yeah he can definitely shoot it. I'd love to see him end up at KU.

I wonder if that was always part of the equation with Jairus. If it was, then it really makes sense why he ended up at BC.

Looks like that (brother) became more of a thing late in the game. Hamilton really didn't progress last summer in AAU and a lot of bigger schools backed off. Good spot for him IMO.

BShark said:

I wasn't sure where to put this but so many midseason transfers now. More than I can remember. Blake Harris has left Missouri for NC State.

I was going to get around to posting that. Still think he would have been nice to have backing up Devonte this season. However having Dotson and Grimes next season more then makes up for it

BShark said:

Kcmatt7 said:

@BShark Nebraska is losing a sophomore big man.

Glad we don't have to be in the market this year.

One of the best posts of the year!

Kcmatt7 said:

I just couldn't imagine being a coach in today's game. Not a lot of loyalty, from any party. And too many opportunities for players that they really do have the upper-hand.

Yeah. Even Self got into a tough spot with recruiting misses and players not working out.

With the way we have loaded up there could be a transfer after next season but I hope not.

Kcmatt7 said:

I just couldn't imagine being a coach in today's game. Not a lot of loyalty, from any party. And too many opportunities for players that they really do have the upper-hand.

Even less loyalty with coaches unless you are an elite coach at an elite school

BeddieKU23 said:

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 Yeah he can definitely shoot it. I'd love to see him end up at KU.

I wonder if that was always part of the equation with Jairus. If it was, then it really makes sense why he ended up at BC.

Looks like that (brother) became more of a thing late in the game. Hamilton really didn't progress last summer in AAU and a lot of bigger schools backed off. Good spot for him IMO.

Yeah even Maryland backed off, enough said.

@BShark

And every school in North Carolina. He wanted to stay in state and his last remaining good options were BC and Ben Howland. Yeah

BeddieKU23 said:

BShark said:

I wasn't sure where to put this but so many midseason transfers now. More than I can remember. Blake Harris has left Missouri for NC State.

I was going to get around to posting that. Still think he would have been nice to have backing up Devonte this season. However having Dotson and Grimes next season more then makes up for it

Harris, unlike Moore would potentially impact recruiting. And really I don't think our guards are an issue at all, though Newman has been mostly disappointing relative to what was expected, fair or not.

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

And every school in North Carolina. He wanted to stay in state and his last remaining good options were BC and Ben Howland. Yeah

I think KU definitely could have got him had the staff pushed for it, based on what I've read. Not really interested in a PF in a wing's body though. I think he is probably ranked too high at 64.

@BeddieKU23 Thats what I meant by all parties. The money is too good for coaches. There is always another program willing to take a player. It is just a nightmare.

Kcmatt7 said:

@BeddieKU23 Thats what I meant by all parties. The money is too good for coaches. There is always another program willing to take a player. It is just a nightmare.

Yes the money part is actually the problem.

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

BShark said:

I wasn't sure where to put this but so many midseason transfers now. More than I can remember. Blake Harris has left Missouri for NC State.

I was going to get around to posting that. Still think he would have been nice to have backing up Devonte this season. However having Dotson and Grimes next season more then makes up for it

Harris, unlike Moore would potentially impact recruiting. And really I don't think our guards are an issue at all, though Newman has been mostly disappointing relative to what was expected, fair or not.

I agree Harris could have impacted recruiting. Whatever the case Self whiffed hard on evaluating who'd be a point guard on this team with Graham. With his comments recently about Newman he almost sounds stunned how bad he's played after all that he flashed to the staff in his off-year. Whatever the case we will find out whether Newman is a new man or not real soon

Well the staff did recruit PGs, they just didn't land any.

Kentucky rekindling interest in Moses Brown. But but they didn't whiff on Bol they didn't want him and weren't going to take a big this class.

@BShark right? They probably won’t offer unless Richards and Washington leave. So we’ll see.

Moses just wants to be recruited. For a Top 20ish type player not a lot of teams seem to be that interested in dealing with him. Kid would be good in College if he stuck around for a while and developed which I doubt he'll do

OAD in his own mind.

BShark said:

OAD in his own mind.

Which is why I'm fortunate KU wasn't after him

@BeddieKU23 I think we got two better fits. Moses doesn’t have the kind of competitive fire you want in an elite prospect. He’s got all the ability in he world but wants to be a wing. I’ve never been a huge fan of his tbh.

FarmerJayhawk said:

@BeddieKU23 I think we got two better fits. Moses doesn’t have the kind of competitive fire you want in an elite prospect. He’s got all the ability in he world but wants to be a wing. I’ve never been a huge fan of his tbh.

Agree on all points.

If you have ESPN3 you can watch a replay of Oak Hill vs University School (lol at the name). Lots of future high level D1 players in this game including KU commit David McCormack.

Not sure if we are recruiting this kid or not, kid still young - -only a freshman they say - - some questioning asking he is 16 yrs old that is old for a freshman they say - -out of Kentucky - so you automatically think Kentucky lock but his stats are just crazy.

His name is Zion Harmon - -seems like that name rings a bell for some reason anyways his season stats are off the charts:

Averaging 34 ppg per game - - - 8 assists per game - 55.1 % fg per game - - -90.5 % from the free thow line - - -3.4 steals per game -- & 38.1 % from the 3 point line -crazy all around - -5'11 pg - -don't know why but man his name sounds familer ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

Everyone is keeping tabs on him. Everyone.

He visited UK and KU last year. Startin reaaal early on this one.

BShark said:

Everyone is keeping tabs on him. Everyone.

I Thought I had heard his name as someone we was keeping up with. The UK fans seem to be talking like there is some extra baggage that he brings with him - - - Three different schools in three years, and some other things going on - will be interesting to see what happens. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@BShark Watched that replay. Big Dave is going to be here for 3 years at a minimum.

Good Things:
- Decent post moves/coordination
- Great at anticipating rebounds.
- Gets decent position when he wants to.

Bad things:
- Weak hands for a guy his size
- Doesn't move well. Laterally or Vertically. Watching him next to Carey really puts it in perspective.

It's hard to get a gauge on him because Oak Hill doesn't feed him the ball. Most of his points come from put backs.

@Kcmatt7

Sounds like a good Summer project for Andrea.

All three Class of 2018 prep players who signed with KU in the early signing period were selected to play in the McDonald’s All-American game.

Kcmatt7 said:

@BShark Watched that replay. Big Dave is going to be here for 3 years at a minimum.

Good Things:
- Decent post moves/coordination
- Great at anticipating rebounds.
- Gets decent position when he wants to.

Bad things:
- Weak hands for a guy his size
- Doesn't move well. Laterally or Vertically. Watching him next to Carey really puts it in perspective.

It's hard to get a gauge on him because Oak Hill doesn't feed him the ball. Most of his points come from put backs.

Good news, he plans to graduate and should be a 4 year player. To me, he is like a much much better Landen Lucas.

Carey is a special prospect and a complete beast. I can't fault big Dave too much for struggling. I'm not sure McCormack is an NBA level player. KU is one of four schools right now that "stand out" to Carey in recruiting. Others are Duke, Michigan State and UNC.

Crimsonorblue22 said:

All three Class of 2018 prep players who signed with KU in the early signing period were selected to play in the McDonald’s All-American game.

This is a pretttty good class. Silvio probably would have made it too if he was still in HS.

If KU ends up getting Romeo or Zion it would make it 4 players..so much for embargo. Have we ever had 4 players in the All-Star? I am thinking that one of the classes leading to the '08 team had 3?

@JayHawkFanToo Almost seems like a coincidence how one of the best classes KU has had under Self comes immediately following the crackdown from the FBI...

@Kcmatt7

Prospects are choosing what they consider squeaky clean programs?

Zion W deciding Saturday. Supposedly between Clemson and UK, but SC may have become more of a factor by signing the Louisville bonus baby.

mayjay said:

Zion W deciding Saturday. Supposedly between Clemson and UK, but SC may have become more of a factor by signing the Louisville bonus baby.

Everyone is saying Clemson but I will never count Cal out until it is done.

I think UK is out. I think Clemson, SC, and UNC are the three left.

Fluff article on Agbaji's visit: https://kansas.247sports.com/Bolt/Ochai-Agbaji-unofficially-visiting-Kansas-for-the-Kansas-State-game--113830802 ↗

Best bit in it: "I talked to Coach Self. He was very interested in me and what I've been doing," said Agbaji. "He told me he's done recruiting kids just on rankings and all that. He wants tough guys that he can rely on and he thinks I can be that guy. He also said he'll get out to see me play soon," added Agbaji.

@mayjay

Doesn't the Louisville transfer have to sit one year like Cunliffe did?

I do think that SC has a decent chance although Clemson appears to be the favorite.

I listened to self on an ESPN interview today. Pretty good

@Crimsonorblue22

What did he say? Any news on you know who?

@JayHawkFanToo same

@JayHawkFanToo Since he never played and was booted, but cleared by the FBI, Frank is applying for a waiver.

After all, FBI ain't nothin compared to higher authorities like the En See Eh Eh.

BShark said:

Crimsonorblue22 said:

All three Class of 2018 prep players who signed with KU in the early signing period were selected to play in the McDonald’s All-American game.

This is a pretttty good class. Silvio probably would have made it too if he was still in HS.

Had Silvio stayed, I don't know if he would have made the game or not. If he had, it likely would've been at the expense of McCormack who I believe is the only 4 star player in the game.

KU could still end up with 4 depending on Langford, or has he cooled on KU? I haven't been able to following recruiting as close as I usually do this year so I don't know what the most up to date on Langford is.

Norm went to see Agbaji again last night.

:fire: :thermometer:

@BShark

Keeping pretty close tabs I'd say..

Certainly indicates at least 1 underclass guard is not coming back right? Of course I could be reading too much into that but you don't recruit multiple guards (Langford, Agbaji) for nothin'

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

Keeping pretty close tabs I'd say..

Certainly indicates at least 1 underclass guard is not coming back right? Of course I could be reading too much into that but you don't recruit multiple guards (Langford, Agbaji) for nothin'

In the article it mention Self wants to see him. If that happens soon as well, things could happen pretty fast I'd think. Agbaji is a real junkyard dog, not afraid to mix it up at all. We all know how Self values that. I think he'd be a pretty good 4-5 year program player/glue guy. Since he is local I'm planning to get out to a couple of games to make my own observations. It does look like he is more than a back-up plan for Romeo though.

@BShark

If no scholarships are available, would he be a candidate to walk on, get financial assistance and be on line for a scholarship when one becomes available?

@JayHawkFanToo unfortuanately no. Once you're recruited as a player, you can't walk on.

JayHawkFanToo said:

@BShark

If no scholarships are available, would he be a candidate to walk on, get financial assistance and be on line for a scholarship when one becomes available?

Not really, he has good solid D1 offers already. I think he would go to CSU or Oregon State over walking on here. That said I suspect there will be a scholarship available.

@FarmerJayhawk Can you find that rule? I've never heard of that before.

Wasn’t TJ Pugh recruited as a “preferred” walk on?

FarmerJayhawk said:

@JayHawkFanToo unfortuanately no. Once you're recruited as a player, you can't walk on.

Never heard of that. Many schools that don’t have schoolies available still recruit players and invite them to walk on with financial assistance packages that are very close to a full scholarship.

I was just asking if he would be willing to walk on at KU with the promise of a future scholarship over getting one at a smaller program.

dylans said:

Wasn’t TJ Pugh recruited as a “preferred” walk on?

There's really no such thing as a preferred walk on, other than they may not have to try out for the team. I think the rub comes in the NCAA's definition of recruited, since it's actually pretty narrow:

(a) Providing the prospective student-athlete with an official visit;
(b) Having an arranged, in-person, off-campus encounter with the prospective student-athlete or the prospective student-athlete’s parents, relatives or legal guardians; or
(c) Issuing a National Letter of Intent or the institution’s written o er of athletically related financial aid to the prospective student-athlete. Issuing a written offer of athletically related financial aid to a prospective student-athlete to attend a summer session prior to full-time enrollment does not cause the prospective student-athlete to become recruited.

As long as you don't do those things, a player can walk on because he wasn't "recruited." At least that's my understanding.

@FarmerJayhawk Seems like we haven't "recruited" him quite yet.

However, I don't think he would come to KU and walk-on.

I also could see everyone but Doke leaving and we would still have a scholarship available for both him and Langford. Not out of the realm of possibilities.

So when Coach Roberts went and seen him , said he seen enough to have him come to Lawrence last Saturday , came with his parents Coach talked to him a bit 6'5 - 6'5 1/2 - -SF - -SG .

Ha been drawing interest from: UMKC - - Colorado State - - -Air Force - - Fresno State. - -really coming on averaging 27 ppg & 9 rpg per game - -now drawing interest from Northern Iowa - -Bradley - -Oklahoma State - -& KU

Question is , wonder really how strong of interest we have? - -If we are now interested of any sort -does that mean they feel things not looking to good for Langford? - -We don't have room for both - would be over the limit for sure. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@Jayballer54 Going to see 2 games and having him come in for a visit in the span of two weeks probably indicates we are pretty interested. Definitely have room for him and Langford, these things work themselves out. That said there is almost no chance Langford comes if Vick stays.

The financial aid cannot come from or be arranged by the athletic program. Any student is eligible to apply for normal aid packages, including work/study, loans, grants, and academic scholarships, and then try to walk on if available. But the permissible benefits limitations, and other rules against receiving money from 3rd parties associated with the school, still apply to walkons.

@BShark

Unless someone else in addition to Graham and Svi leaves KU will be short one scholarship, right? At this point I think Vick and Doke are coming back, so the other candidates are Newman and Preston; if one leaves we are full, if both leave then there is one scholarship available.

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

Keeping pretty close tabs I'd say..

Certainly indicates at least 1 underclass guard is not coming back right? Of course I could be reading too much into that but you don't recruit multiple guards (Langford, Agbaji) for nothin'

In the article it mention Self wants to see him. If that happens soon as well, things could happen pretty fast I'd think. Agbaji is a real junkyard dog, not afraid to mix it up at all. We all know how Self values that. I think he'd be a pretty good 4-5 year program player/glue guy. Since he is local I'm planning to get out to a couple of games to make my own observations. It does look like he is more than a back-up plan for Romeo though.

Awesome I look forward to your observations.

Video's show he's certainly athletic enough to be at KU. Has solid form on his shot. I see some shades of Wayne Selden in him as far as body, athleticism.

Since his recruitment will likely go into the spring I see no reason why the staff shouldn't be aggressive getting a relationship with him started and seeing what happens. I imagine the kid must feel pretty excited that he went from a few offers to interest from KU. That's big time for any kid, especially local.

BShark said:

@Jayballer54 Going to see 2 games and having him come in for a visit in the span of two weeks probably indicates we are pretty interested. Definitely have room for him and Langford, these things work themselves out. That said there is almost no chance Langford comes if Vick stays.

Ya that's the big player I think , like you say - it's ALL going to depend on Vick. - -I know some people seem to say Vanderbilt has the edge - - maybe so , BUT like I read off another poster , if that was the case then why wouldn't of he already committed early to them - nothing to wait on with them and Indiana.

Just makes it look like he is waiting to see if Vick goes , I feel fairly good about him, cause I think Vick is gone, could be one of those cases where even if he were to come back his NBA stock might not go up enough for him to stick for another year - -If we get Romeo to go with what we got -- look out - just insane. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

Bill is checking in with Matt Hurt today. He might just be a top target.

@BShark I hope so. Looks coordinated as hell for a 6'9 HS player.

@Kcmatt7 He's very good, legit NBA talent. Bill has closed in Minnesota before as I recall...

Ochai Agbaji will be in AFH today for the Baylor game with his dad. Heaaating up.

@BShark I don’t think we offer until the roster is more clear. If nobody leaves, we don’t have a scholarship anyway.

I would be very surprised by no one leaving early (well besides Preston I guess since that is now official).

BShark said:

Ochai Agbaji will be in AFH today for the Baylor game with his dad. Heaaating up.

nice when there's a recruit close enough to visit. I'm sure

2nd visit this month is big

@BShark same here. I think Newman is the only one. Which if Langford goes to Vandy, I’d take this kid. He’s on a really nice development trajectory.

I think Langford goes to Vandy, if your a top 10 pick potentially your gonna get shots at Vandy over what KU has. Its a business decision as they stressed

Jermaine Couisnard, a kid that KU briefly looked at last spring before acquiring Moore took a prep year. He now has offers from South Carolina, Louisville, Virginia Tech and Illinois.

BeddieKU23 said:

I think Langford goes to Vandy, if your a top 10 pick potentially your gonna get shots at Vandy over what KU has. Its a business decision as they stressed

I think if Vick leaves, we get him. Self has a great record of putti wings in the NBA.

FarmerJayhawk said:

BeddieKU23 said:

I think Langford goes to Vandy, if your a top 10 pick potentially your gonna get shots at Vandy over what KU has. Its a business decision as they stressed

I think if Vick leaves, we get him. Self has a great record of putti wings in the NBA.

Yes we do have a great track record. I'm just seeing it being an easier path for him at vandy. If he wants to win and learn from a HOF coach then I hope his decision is easy. We will see how it goes.

Zion to Duke. WOW!

@BShark crap

They have the top 3 recruits....vomit

They are all wings too, wtf is K selling.

Ugh🤮

BShark said:

They are all wings too, wtf is K selling.

Money

Watch Carter and Bagley return

And trent

BeddieKU23 said:

Watch Carter and Bagley return

It won't happen but LOL.

If Duke doesn't win it all next year K should retire on the spot.

Still have bolden or Bolton? Sitting on the bench

Crimsonorblue22 said:

Still have bolden or Bolton? Sitting on the bench

They do, he plays 12 minutes a game. Bet he'd be playing more for us lol.

Baylor players impressive in postgame

Unbelievable. I literally can’t believe it. I don’t even know how recruiting makes sense anymore.

Has to be selling GSW type of scheme. 5 guards, and Zion will play like Draymond, only with more freedom

@Kcmatt7 They will be insane defensively if the kids buy in.

We’ll be better. Guessing Trent and Bolden now peace out.

@BShark just hope they all worry too much about “getting theirs” and the team chemistry never really gets where it needs to be

There are a lot of Duke alums with a lot of $$$. Just sayin.

FarmerJayhawk said:

We’ll be better. Guessing Trent and Bolden now peace out.

Wasn't Trent oad anyway?

We will definitely be good, but Duke might be better.

@BShark Zion was injured a lot this past year. Dukes known for having great guys that can't play! Franks teammate

Do we play Duke in the Classic or otherwise next year? That would be a titanic clash.

@BShark Mich State

Ah thanks.

mayjay said:

@BShark Mich State

Who will be down. We should get 3 in a row there. Which will be huge. @Bshark Trent wants to be, but Bagley has kind of eaten into his role some. He’ll declare and get feedback. With Zion there, my feeling is he goes knowing that he’ll be a bit player there. Ditto Bolden

Yeah this will certainly push him out the door, agree with that.

Where's bolden going? The adriatic league with Newman?

Could still transfer to TCU, he was strongly considering that last offseason.

BShark said:

Could still transfer to TCU, he was strongly considering that last offseason.

True, TCU has 1 spot open currently. Can see him staying though as he'd be the biggest guy left on Duke's roster after this year

ESPN rankings update

http://www.espn.com/college-sports/basketball/recruiting/playerrankings/_/order/true ↗

Grimes #8, Dotson #24 (lol k), McCormack #28 (also lol, but because I think this is too high).

@BShark

Grimes at #8 is solid.

Can live with the others. I think eventually Dave lives up to that #28. Devon will outplay #24.

If Dave continues sculpting his body, I see him as a potential Big XII POY under Self. He is like Self's wet dream lol.

He has great footwork and offensive skill. He has size that can't be taught and is perfect for sealing guys in the Hi-Low. He is just lacking on the conditioning and athleticism a little bit. Hudy will add 10" to that vertical, and help him with his hip flexibility so he can get lower and his agility gets better. Big Dave should end up being what we always wished Landon Lucas could be.

@BShark

Big Dave was selected to the McDonald All-American which selects the top 24 players so enough people in the know see something and believe he belongs there.

JayHawkFanToo said:

@BShark

Big Dave was selected to the McDonald All-American which selects the top 24 players so enough people in the know see something and believe he belongs there.

Down year for bigs, he's the highest rated big outside the Top 25.

There tends to be 1-2 guys outside the Top 20-25 that make it annually. Zach Collins #37 of Gonzaga was a recent one, Thomas Welsh #36 another.

Dave is a good player and he's played against the best HS competition for a few years now. He was on a winning AAU team as well. He might not be an impact freshman based on his current skill but I think he's deserving of his ranking in this class as well as his McDonald's All American status. His best basketball should be ahead of him once he gets to KU and continues to develop

Yeah, this is a terrible year for bigs. Bol Bol is near the top and there would be classes he wouldn't be top 25 overall imo, so it's all relative.

That said overall I am high on McCormack. He will need time though. I don't think he plays much at all his first year, then plays a reserve role year two before starting and being pretty great years 3-4.

@BShark

I'm okay with that trajectory given his ability right now. If Doke leaves after this year he'll play more as a freshman.

He's a big dude with some post skill to work with. He could surprise us if he buys in from the start. Has more offensive skill then Doke did coming in but other then their size they are not alike.

Moses Brown to UCLA. Oh the agony for Maryland fans

BeddieKU23 said:

Moses Brown to UCLA. Oh the agony for Maryland fans

They got punched in the balls this cycle. If @jaybate-1-0 is frustrated with KU recruiting, well, good thing he isn't a Maryland fan.

Also I wonder if Brown mushed UK/Cal for coming back in late. Doesn't seem like he would have but it would be hilarious.

UK/Cal also lingering with Jordan Brown. They haven't offered yet but he has kept them on his list and Cal might be getting desperate.

To expand on that...

Keldon Johnson long believed Maryland lean, his dad outright said he wanted him at MD. Ends up at UK.

Moses Brown, MD involved a long time here as well. He was allegedly very close to committing to MD a couple times but never pulled the trigger. It did feel like he was waiting for a blue blood offer. Ends up at UCLA.

Devon Dotson was their top PG target. Ends up at KU.

They do still have a very good class, all things considering, it just isn't completely insane like it could have been.

BShark said:

Yeah, this is a terrible year for bigs. Bol Bol is near the top and there would be classes he wouldn't be top 25 overall imo, so it's all relative.

That said overall I am high on McCormack. He will need time though. I don't think he plays much at all his first year, then plays a reserve role year two before starting and being pretty great years 3-4.

How long we thinking De Sosua stays? - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

BeddieKU23 said:

Moses Brown to UCLA. Oh the agony for Maryland fans

I know there was some talk , well for some time Moses was wanting a UK offer , Cal talked to him some late but not sure if they ever offered - -I think Uk fans in a panic on what they are going to do for a big man. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

Well maybe Maryland can take a little solace they have a big man. - - Schnider Herard 6' 10 transferring to Maryland from Mississippi State was ranked the # 47 recruit in the class of 2016. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

Jayballer54 said:

Well maybe Maryland can take a little solace they have a big man. - - Schnider Herard 6' 10 transferring to Maryland from Mississippi State was ranked the # 47 recruit in the class of 2016. - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

I remember when KU was looking at him out of HS. I was unimpressed, glad we went for Doke instead.

@BShark

VERY frustrated with KU recruiting of 5-stars (that actually play) at 1 and 5 positions especially.

Endlessly glad I'm not a Maryland fan. Imagine living so close to a swamp. But I do envy them their soft shell crabs from Chesapeake Bay.

Just looked up Shakur Juiston's stats. I wonder if he would have come here had Preston never committed.

Putting up a pretty efficient 15 points and 10 rebounds per game.

@Kcmatt7 😭

https://247sports.com/player/precious-achiuwa-86978 ↗

It will be a battle but it sounds like KU is right in there.

@BShark He looks good in crimson and blue!

@dylans Extremely athletic. Already 6'9'' too (and still growing) that page hasn't been updated. I think he is a top 10 talent. St. Benedict is an Adidas school so that doesn't hurt.

BShark said:

@dylans Extremely athletic. Already 6'9'' too (and still growing) that page hasn't been updated. I think he is a top 10 talent. St. Benedict is an Adidas school so that doesn't hurt.

He's a good one and KU has definitely kept in constant contact with him since last summer. Reminds me of Kevin Knox in terms of size and versatility. I believe his brother played for St Johns (God's Gift) was his name if I remember correctly. I can imagine him being a big priority at wing or in our 4/1 combo or whatever offense we run in the future. Hope we keep pursuit

He would be my absolute top wing target. I'm counting Hurt as a 4. Lewis is good but Nike + Team USA? No shot at Watford either. Moore isn't getting out of North Carolina, smells like Roy will close but I will never count Duke out these days. Who knows this kid might even get to 7' tall. He has just about no ceiling but needs a little more polish than a player like Lewis or Watford. Self applies good polish. :joy:

My dream class would be Jacobs, Harvey, Achiuwa, Hurt, JRE. Outside of Jacobs, that's a ton of length. Would be a defensive nightmare. Good multi-year program guards, a multi-year 4 that has a shot at the NBA, and two super studs. I think it's within reach too. Hurt, JRE and Harvey are top targets.

Of course, it's early and there are lots of players KU is keeping tabs on. I also wonder if Chandler is a take because of the now family connection. Achiuwa is better. It will be interesting to see how it all shakes out.

BShark said:

He would be my absolute top wing target. I'm counting Hurt as a 4. Lewis is good but Nike + Team USA? No shot at Watford either. Moore isn't getting out of North Carolina, smells like Roy will close but I will never count Duke out these days. Who knows this kid might even get to 7' tall. He has just about no ceiling but needs a little more polish than a player like Lewis or Watford. Self applies good polish. :joy:

My dream class would be Jacobs, Harvey, Achiuwa, Hurt, JRE. Outside of Jacobs, that's a ton of length. Would be a defensive nightmare. Good multi-year program guards, a multi-year 4 that has a shot at the NBA, and two super studs. I think it's within reach too. Hurt, JRE and Harvey are top targets.

Of course, it's early and there are lots of players KU is keeping tabs on. I also wonder if Chandler is a take because of the now family connection. Achiuwa is better. It will be interesting to see how it all shakes out.

Nice Dream Class.

My dream class would be Vernon Carey, Cole Anthony, Achiuwa, JRE, Josh Green. We can dream right?

In actuality JRE, Achiuwa, Harvey, Jaylen Wilson & Jacobs would be a killer 5 of guys we are recruiting/already have. Malik Hall, Williamson, Leech, Lawson, Hurt, Stanley could be other options as well we pursue but we'll see what the staff needs. It will be interesting to see which Top 10 kids we throw darts at as none of them seem like KU has a legit chance with right now (other then Hurt).

I assume after next year Grimes, Vick, Doke, D Lawson, KJ Lawson & De Sousa could all be gone. 4 of 6 at least. That means anywhere from 4 to 6 open spots as it looks. 19 will have to balance between immediate impact players with guys that can contribute early and develop over time. I see the major need(s) being in the post if a De Sousa were to leave or KJ follows Dedric after next season. Lot of time to be sorted out

If we are dreaming that hard definitely Carey.

BShark said:

If we are dreaming that hard definitely Carey.

It was a dreaming moment, a very unlikely one.

I think KJ sticks around fwiw.

I've got us penciled in for JRE, Jacobs, Harvey, and one of Hurt/Lawson/Achiuwa/Leech/Stanley. It's really too early to tell who Self and co. will really target on the wing. Also we could see an end to one and done as soon as the 2019 draft, so we'll see. Add in potential immediate transfer eligibility, and college hoops could be insane as far as roster movement over the next couple offseasons. If the class of 2019 can go pro right out of HS, it creates an interesting dilemma for next year's freshmen. Do you leave after a year in an absolutely loaded draft? Or do you stick around for 2 years and compete with the 2020 class. My feeling is a lot of marginal OAD types (including Grimes, Dotson, and Silvio) end up staying for at least a second year. It could even ripple down to this season. If it seems pretty likely that the 19 class can go pro, it'll push marginal underclassmen into this upcoming draft to avoid the stacked 2019 group.

Updated 247 2019 rankings.

Targets:

Wiseman/Carey 1-2

Hurt- #4

Achiuwa #5

Stanley #14

Jalen Wilson #15 (big rise for him and he likes KU)

Okongwu #20

JRE #28 (dropped from 5-star status)

Harvey #35

Josh Green #36

Chandler Lawson #49

Hall #66

Jacobs #99 (keeps dropping)

Williamson #208

@BeddieKU23 Hooooly :poop: Jalen Wilson. He is a kid I think we can close on too.

JRE receiving the pre-KU commitment drop. :coffee: I don't care where Markese is ranked, I like him long term for us. He has a lot of stuff you can't teach.

Okongwu will end up at UCLA.

Still sleeping on Williamson imo.

@BeddieKU23 - -not sure - -but I just looked and pulled up JRE profile - still on there shows him as a 5 star - -what am I missing?

Jayballer54 said:

@BeddieKU23 - -not sure - -but I just looked and pulled up JRE profile - still on there shows him as a 5 star - -what am I missing?

247 rankings not the composite.

247SPORTS 97
NATL. RK 28
PF RK 5
KS RK 1

4*

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 Hooooly :poop: Jalen Wilson. He is a kid I think we can close on too.

JRE receiving the pre-KU commitment drop. :coffee: I don't care where Markese is ranked, I like him long term for us. He has a lot of stuff you can't teach.

Okongwu will end up at UCLA.

Still sleeping on Williamson imo.

Absolutely. We’re going to need at least one, probably more, wings in the class. I could easily see Cunliffe gone by then. So it’s possible to add Achiwua and Wilson. Precious can play some 4 as well. Glad to see Zach make a move up. Ideally, he’d back up Grimes for a year before taking the reins. Agree on Jacobs. I could see him as a RS since he’ll be behind Dotson and Moore, and maybe Harvey.

I'd like to see Harvey and JRE make it official before next fall. OU worries me as a dark horse with Harvey.

BShark said:

Jayballer54 said:

@BeddieKU23 - -not sure - -but I just looked and pulled up JRE profile - still on there shows him as a 5 star - -what am I missing?

247 rankings not the composite.

247SPORTS 97
NATL. RK 28
PF RK 5
KS RK 1

4*

gotcha - - my bad

@BShark Hopefully this is Lonny's last hurrah and he hangs it up after TY leaves.

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 Hooooly :poop: Jalen Wilson. He is a kid I think we can close on too.

JRE receiving the pre-KU commitment drop. :coffee: I don't care where Markese is ranked, I like him long term for us. He has a lot of stuff you can't teach.

Okongwu will end up at UCLA.

Still sleeping on Williamson imo.

Yeah that's a big rise for Wilson who was in the 40's I believe before. Never hurts to be in on a kid that makes a rise like that before his senior year. I haven't dived into who else is after him but I saw that UNC is recruiting him. Oklahoma, A&M a few others as well. 247 says he unofficially visited for last weekend's game? Was that true?

Ugh, Emmitt Williams to LSU.

Red-Flag's put aside this was one of my favorite players in the entire class.

The reality was he was always going to a Nike school. LSU selling some goods reeling in 3 5 star recruits.. Wade ain't that good!

Lots of CB movement for one time interest Jermaine Couisnard to Frank Martin..

Ugh, Slater with a pick for Duke with EJ Montgomery. Are you freaking kidding me!

BeddieKU23 said:

Ugh, Emmitt Williams to LSU.

Red-Flag's put aside this was one of my favorite players in the entire class.

The reality was he was always going to a Nike school. LSU selling some goods reeling in 3 5 star recruits.. Wade ain't that good!

No high profile hoops school was going to take him after what happened. And yeah, SWOOSH.

BeddieKU23 said:

Ugh, Slater with a pick for Duke with EJ Montgomery. Are you freaking kidding me!

...

...

Please no.

EJ isn’t going to Duke unless one or both of Bolden and DeLaurier leave. At least that’s what my Duke contact told me.

FarmerJayhawk said:

EJ isn’t going to Duke unless one or both of Bolden and DeLaurier leave. At least that’s what my Duke contact told me.

Interesting. Them getting involved is just scary though, they have the ability to convince anyone to play there so I'm not exactly buying it's not gonna happen

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

Ugh, Emmitt Williams to LSU.

Red-Flag's put aside this was one of my favorite players in the entire class.

The reality was he was always going to a Nike school. LSU selling some goods reeling in 3 5 star recruits.. Wade ain't that good!

No high profile hoops school was going to take him after what happened. And yeah, SWOOSH.

Well LSU is going to be a completely different team with those 3, Days, and Watters and a few others they have. Your talking ncaa tourney good. I know Williams was most likely steered there but he is going to be a good piece for them. Sucks he has the obvious off the court concerns

@BeddieKU23 I agree. UK is getting involved too. I don’t have a good feel for it at all.

Texas A&M offered Agbaji. Stock rising.

BeddieKU23 said:

Ugh, Slater with a pick for Duke with EJ Montgomery. Are you freaking kidding me!

I hope we didn't think EJ would be considering us - -as he gave his TOP 11 - and we didn't even make that - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@Jayballer54 It's just commenting on how Duke is ridiculous. KU didn't really recruit Montgomery.

BeddieKU23 said:

Lots of CB movement for one time interest Jermaine Couisnard to Frank Martin..

Committed tonight.

BShark said:

Texas A&M offered Agbaji. Stock rising.

Offered by Wisconsin!!!

@wissox

I hope we offer soon.

BShark said:

BShark said:

Texas A&M offered Agbaji. Stock rising.

Offered by Wisconsin!!!

@wissox

They need some good news recruitingwise

BShark said:

I hope we offer soon.

its a catch 22 with him. romeo is the prize. but if other programs start giving him committal offers that will be tough for him to sit on KU

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

Lots of CB movement for one time interest Jermaine Couisnard to Frank Martin..

Committed tonight.

good level for him

@BeddieKU23 I think we could take both. I feel he is a RS candidate and would be doing so at Wiscy or A&M as well.

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 I think we could take both. I feel he is a RS candidate and would be doing so at Wiscy or A&M as well.

I wouldn't mind getting both. It looks as if all the attention KU has started to give Ogbaji has gotten other coaches looking in as well. I wouldn't be surprised to see his offer list continue to grow.

As for Romeo I've seen enough now, he's a MUST get.

His game is so smooth like Grimes. We can't let this one get away. We better not let him get away

BeddieKU23 said:

His game is so smooth like Grimes. We can't let this one get away. We better not let him get away

!alt text ↗

@bshark Are you saying it's on Howard?

dylans said:

@bshark Are you saying its on Howard?

Howard is kicking ass this year and is the lead on Romeo.

Howard has done a great job this year. You wonder how much an assistant is in play with a guy like Romeo who is going to be in school for less then a year. Langford looks improved from his earlier days. I don't know much about the competition but its hard not envisioning him and Grimes just tearing it up next season.

Bossi always likes to bring up local kids, “Finally, after seeing him play last week I’m really intrigued by Ochai Agbaji. His ball handling is a bit lacking at this point, but he’s strong, he can really shoot and he’s a nice athlete. Maybe he doesn’t make the instant impact some of the other guys do, but he’s a tremendous value at No. 45 on the shooting guard list and he’s got a chance to develop into a really good high major player.”

Agbaji is a solid player, but I don't know how he fits in at KU. He's not an elite level wing at this point, so he would sit behind Cunliffe, Grimes, Moore, Garrett, Dotson and KJ Lawson next year, whether Langford comes or not. That's a lot of people to be behind, particularly because Cunliffe, Moore, Garrett and Dotson would all definitely be returning the next season.

@justanotherfan I’m good with him redshirting next season. He’s not coming out early and has some holes in his game, so it could really benefit him.

Yeah I would assume a RS. He is much more of a "Bill Self player" than Cunliffe.

We’re so loaded at the perimeter next season (probably) that he wouldn’t get PT anyway. So might as well trade year 1 for year 5 as far as game production.

Oregon offered.

Sorry, no offense, but I'm holding out for Langford since Preston departed. I think KU just might have a chance at Langford. I don't understand why he doesn't just choose IU or Vandy already. However, he is close to a decision. He took officials to IU, KU, and Vandy. His dad said an official to IU, attend Vandy practice, and watch KU on tv to watch how Self plays his players.

I find this interesting because you take an official to one school. You simply attend the practice of another. You then, "Watch KU on tv..." I don't understand his hesitation. KU is televised way more often than the other schools. Billy Preston leaves, and you can play with Dotson, Grimes, DeSousa, and McCormack. IU and Vandy not ranked. I guess it comes down to playing time. Maybe he and his dad feels that he's not good enough to EARN pt at KU. Like Young, if he goes to IU and Vandy, he plays regardless. He's not waiting on Vick at this point if he's making a decision soon. They mention McDs AA or April like they originally planned.

I don't think it will be Vandy. IU or KU imo.

@truehawk93

If you have seen any recent Langford highlights, he'd start at every D-1 school in America next year.

Doubtful they are worried about being good enough to earn PT. But a Burger Boy that's potentially a Lottery pick in the 2019 draft isn't coming to KU to sit on the bench. You need to assure them he's coming here to start and have a role.

If it wasn't for the Louisville debacle KU wouldn't even have a legitimate chance of getting him.

Langford can play anywhere he wants. But that's the thing. He could draw any of the 351 D1 schools out of a hat, pick that school and he would be the starting 2 guard there next year. It's more about how pieces are going to fit around him. Langford is trying to make the best decision for himself, as every kid in the country does when they pick a place to go to college, athlete or not.

The biggest question you have to ask if you are Langford is who you want to be your PG. Since he's a SG, he wants to go play with a PG that will set him up well for shots. That would seem to give KU an advantage, but I don't know how well Romeo knows IU commit Robert Phinisee (another Indiana HS player). If Romeo knows (and likes playing with) Phinisee, that could tilt the scale in their favor. IU also has another Indiana kid (Damezi Anderson). If Romeo gets along with those guys and likes playing alongside them, he could very easily pick IU.

For Vandy, the PG will be Saben Lee. He's started every game this year as a freshman, so he will have experience in the system. I can't stress enough how important it is for a wing player to have a PG that can set them up. Having a guy with experience makes a huge difference in the impact they can have.

For KU, it will likely be Dotson and Grimes in the backcourt. That gives Langford the opportunity to really spread the floor with a couple of other nice slashers, but he won't have any experienced guys with him.

Situationally, I think there's a good chance he picks IU, particularly if he gets along with those other Indiana kids. He and Grimes are close, though, and he may want to play with another elite guy in his one year. Vandy has the experience thing going, and he would be the feature guy in that system, but that's an uphill battle unless he liked something he saw in practice with Saben Lee.

I think people are overvaluing Langford. He's much more Oubre than Wiggins as far as impact. He'll take some time to get it all figured out, at least above the neck. He'd be a wing here, he doesn't have the playmaking skills Self wants in a 2. And he definitely won't throw a freshman out there to be the single ball handler on the court. Don't forget Vandy signed Darius Garland as well, who's going to be a very, very good college guard. Vandy will have a much better backcourt than Indiana next season. I suppose if Romeo wants unlimited shots he can go to Indiana, but Vandy or KU is the better basketball fit. Still think KU if Vick goes pro. If Vick returns, I think it's Vandy. Playing with a really talented roster and having a clearly defined role. will be too much to pass up.

We'll take an Oubre type impact, we need it.

Vandy is out of scholarships currently. He wouldn't go to Vandy if it wasn't for Garland & Shittu.

Wonder how much Langford's relationship with Grimes will factor in.

At the McDonald's All-American game Garland is on the same team as Romeo. Dotson & Grimes are on the West squad with Shittu. Wonder how much guys will be in his ear..

@justanotherfan I think Vandy's biggest problem is having Shittu. He appears to be a really toxic recruit for w/e reason. Lots of scuttlebutt on that.

@FarmerJayhawk I think we would make room for Romeo. Jmo.

@BeddieKU23 Seems like he really did form a connection with Grimes. Could def play out in our favour.

Recruiting is about the personal relationships, but the thing we can't gauge as fans is what those relationships are like between the players themselves. Maybe Shittu sailed an elbow past the wrong guy at a camp three years ago. Maybe a couple of guys were trash talking and it got a little heated, and now they don't get along. These are things that the players may know amongst each other, but that won't necessarily get talked about otherwise.

Maybe Romeo is the type of guy that gets along with most people, so that stuff doesn't matter. Maybe he's the type of guy that, when he forms a friendship, that's really important to him. That's something you can't know without knowing Romeo personally, so it's hard to say.

From a basketball perspective, he's choosing between three freshmen PGs (Dotson, Garland, Phinisee) and a few sidekicks (Grimes, Lee, Anderson). Those are his choices because situationally, that sets up how things will go for him. I understand why Shittu wants to play with Garland. I don't know how Langford fits into that. We will have to see.

Supposedly Langford's dad doesn't want him playing with Shittu.

I think KU will be the best team of the three next year, mainly because of Dedric. I'm super high on Dedric.

BShark said:

@justanotherfan I think Vandy's biggest problem is having Shittu. He appears to be a really toxic recruit for w/e reason. Lots of scuttlebutt on that.

I wonder how much of that had to do with Barrett specifically. There seemed to be a rift not only with RJ & Simi but their parents.

My Brewster Academy friend is familiar with Shittu as they play VT Academy where Shittu plays and he hasn't heard anything negatively about Simi there. They crushed Simi's team by 30

BTW Brewster is absolutely stacked this year, 7 D-1 kids including Buddy Boeheim who's going to play for his dad next year. He's made it up for a few of his games.

@BeddieKU23 Interesting. Maybe it was AAU related.

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 Interesting. Maybe it was AAU related.

Manning has also been up to see his prized recruit who plays for Brewster. Despite the season Danny is having his recruit is confident he'll be back

@BShark

Could have been. VT Academy isn't very good this year I was told and he's in a situation where he's getting everything he wants (star player, no other ego's around)

@BeddieKU23 Danny has a legit class coming in, so I would assume that keeps him secure for next season. With Chaundee Brown returning, he'd better start accumulating some wins.

@BShark

Yeah Danny will return 7 of 9 from the rotation and Top 4 scorers.

Not sure why it took him so long to start playing Chaundee big minutes. There's a clear correlation between production and minutes from him. In the 7 games he's played 25 or more minutes he's averaging 16 a game (more then double his season average). Hoard & Mucius will help him tremendously

I wanted Chaundee at KU, he is good.

BShark said:

I wanted Chaundee at KU, he is good.

Me too that miss sucked. He'd be playing the Garrett role here as a freshman though. Next year should be a big year for him

He'd be here over Sam basically. Agree he wouldn't be playing much this year so I can see why he picked WF.

Self vs Bryce Drew & Miller. This should be a no-brainer.

It's obviously about more then that but we should expect Self's experience with recruiting these OAD's over the others to prevail..

@BeddieKU23

Manning is in the hot seat at WF. There was a lot of backlash when his contract was renewed and he needs to show significant progress next season or he will be gone.

JayHawkFanToo said:

@BeddieKU23

Manning is in the hot seat at WF. There was a lot of backlash when his contract was renewed and he needs to show significant progress next season or he will be gone.

I agree his seat is definitely getting warmer. 1-8 in conference play just won't get it done. They should have beaten UNC weeks back but had one of those classic meltdowns in the last minute. I figure this recruiting class might be the only reason he's retained honestly

https://247sports.com/Player/Will-Baker-46038385 ↗

https://247sports.com/Player/Greg-Brown-46035701 ↗

KU checking in today. KU is "making Baker a priority" per his coach.

BShark said:

Supposedly Langford's dad doesn't want him playing with Shittu.

I think KU will be the best team of the three next year, mainly because of Dedric. I'm super high on Dedric.

YOU and me both. - - I'm probably over hyped about Dedric but sorry I can't help it - -I think he will really help a lot our frontline issues next year. - - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

I don't think we have had a post player like Dedric in awhile. The combination of skill and length is tremendous.

BShark said:

https://247sports.com/Player/Will-Baker-46038385 ↗

https://247sports.com/Player/Greg-Brown-46035701 ↗

KU checking in today. KU is "making Baker a priority" per his coach.

If we make the effort, this should come down to us and ole Roy.

BShark said:

I don't think we have had a post player like Dedric in awhile. The combination of skill and length is tremendous.

I think his skill is really really good, our frontline is going to be so much better next year not the worries that we have this year. - - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

Got a question guys. - -So Silvio coming in at the start of the 2nd semester , so is he losing an entire Freshman year even though he didn't come till the start of the 2nd semester? - or will he have like 3 1/2 years eligible that he could play -- -? - - - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

!0_1517529745304_upload-a40df84c-bcb8-4ced-baaa-8e9f20789a46 ↗

!0_1517529796985_upload-ec8b73b1-78ff-426b-8219-945365ad3243 ↗

Jayballer54 said:

Got a question guys. - -So Silvio coming in at the start of the 2nd semester , so is he losing an entire Freshman year even though he didn't come till the start of the 2nd semester? - or will he have like 3 1/2 years eligible that he could play -- -? - - - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

His half semester is his freshman year. He'll have 3 years of eligibility left after the season.

Cunliffe is in a similar situation, he was a Soph this year and if he's still here next season will be a Jr

Self watched Agbaji tonight. Agbaji will be at the game tomorrow.

Oklahoma State offered him today.

!alt text ↗

@BShark Wow, he has a pretty good basketball mind sitting next to him.

KU offered.

🐦 View Tweet

For those with 247 VIP there are some good comments in the article about the offer.

I’d love to have him if there’s a spot available. Could be a RS candidate, but projects nicely as a 3 and D wing. And is a plus positional rebounder.

FarmerJayhawk said:

I’d love to have him if there’s a spot available. Could be a RS candidate, but projects nicely as a 3 and D wing. And is a plus positional rebounder.

I think so too but apparently that's not how he is being recruited. Then again, I guess you can't tell most kids "you will likely rs".

I mean if he’s good enough to play, play him. But I thought that was unusual too from Self. But I’d definitely RS him if he was like the 12th man.

@FarmerJayhawk Yeah I have a tough time seeing him break into the rotation next year but it's always possible.

@BShark for sure. As rapidly as he’s impoved, maybe he has a shot at passing Cunliffe. But he won’t play in front of Dotson, Grimes, Langford/Vick/Newman, or Garrett.

Maybe we offered because Sam won't be back. We've certainly brought this up before

BeddieKU23 said:

Maybe we offered because Sam won't be back. We've certainly brought this up before

Would take this swap in a heartbeat.

Agbaji really seems to be a Self player whereas Cunliffe is basically the opposite. Agbaji is a blue collar wearing, lunch pail carrying sunofagun.

@BeddieKU23 that very well could he. Self seems like he’s about done with Sam. Ogbaji seems like a better fit.

FarmerJayhawk said:

@BShark for sure. As rapidly as he’s impoved, maybe he has a shot at passing Cunliffe. But he won’t play in front of Dotson, Grimes, Langford/Vick/Newman, or Garrett.

He looks like more of a pure 3 to me. Could play small ball 4 in a pinch. So I don't think he is really competing with most of these guys for pt per se, but we are mostly on the same page anyway.

@BShark I agree. I see some Releford in him actually, but he’s a better shooter.

Let’s hope the guys coming in have a competitive nature and want to win games.

They definitely do. All are really good competitors.

I've heard nothing but good things about Dotson in that regard.

So reading more about the 6'5 SF -- Ochai Agbaji so, seriously - - how of a legit option is he? - -I know we offered yesterday, and how serious do we think he would be considering coming to KU and or committing to us. - -really good 3-4 year player obviously going to rise in the rankings some? - - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@Jayballer54 he’s legit pending Vick and Newman’s decisions. As of now, there technically isn’t a spot for him since we’re full. But we almost certainly will since at least one of those guys will leave, and Cunliffe may transfer again too. So he’s a really nice developmental prospect who I’d love to see RS year 1 if he’s like the 12th man. He won’t be in a hurry. He’ll take visits before making a choice, presumably after we know what some guys are doing. Also, he’ll have no impact on Langford whatsoever.

Glad we finally offered. Let's see how this plays out. The tea leaves on this one certainly feel as if we are going to see roster turnover on the perimeter and have a need for him. If he's as good a shooter as his video's look I definitely see why they are interested

If I were the kid's family, I'd look Self in the eye and ask, "If my kid comes to Kansas, works his tail off, and is a starter by his junior year. But you will still look to recruit over him, and you'll bump him out of the starting lineup, if the next OAD flavor of the month is available, correct?"

I’d reply, “We will continue to recruit the best players we can to fill out the roster giving us the best chance at a national championship. Competition makes us all better, therefore starting positions are earned not given. If you come in and earn a starting position it’s yours to lose on merit, not to a promise.”

FarmerJayhawk said:

@Jayballer54 he’s legit pending Vick and Newman’s decisions. As of now, there technically isn’t a spot for him since we’re full. But we almost certainly will since at least one of those guys will leave, and Cunliffe may transfer again too. So he’s a really nice developmental prospect who I’d love to see RS year 1 if he’s like the 12th man. He won’t be in a hurry. He’ll take visits before making a choice, presumably after we know what some guys are doing. Also, he’ll have no impact on Langford whatsoever.

OK , I understand what you saying , or at least I think I do , if Vick OR Newman leaves then we would have that opening for him right? - -However I'm not sure how him committing would not effect Romeo. - -I mean like you said If Vick or Newman leave there is the spot - -BUT if that's the case he would take the one spot that we would have available right? - Then no spots open for Romeo - -how would that then work out? - -I think with the way thing are going I really am starting to think unless he gets it turned around - -I would think Vick is coming back. - - At this point right now I think a lot more chance Newman leaves then Vick ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@Jayballer54 Point being, you don't worry about scholarship numbers. If one of Vick or Newman decide to stay, then Ogbaji commits, then Romeo calls up Self and wants to commit, then you make a spot. Scholarships aren't guaranteed year to year, so Self could pull someone like Sam aside and tell him, "hey, we feel like it would be best for both parties to go our separate ways. Also, you're getting exactly no PT next season with Romeo, Garrett, Grimes, and maybe Vick ahead of you on the depth chart." I do agree with you in that it's more likely Vick comes back than Newman, which at this point I hope Newman comes back over Vick. Could start Newman at PG pretty easily, with he and Grimes splitting time on the ball. Also would be nice to have a veteran presence back there. The possibility of starting 3 freshmen has me really nervous. Also having a lineup of Newman, Grimes, and Langford and all that firepower makes my spine tingle. Come to think of it, that probable starting five is absolutely insane.

@FarmerJayhawk

Did you forget Charlie Moore?

No, if we have all those guys then Moore won’t play much. Same reason I left Ogbaji out.

@FarmerJayhawk Dotson will be on the ball I would bet, not Grimes.

Forcing a guy to transfer is part of the deal. Self's pushed guys out before. But Cunliffe has already burned a redshirt year to come here. That would be pretty disappointing if he got pushed out.

@FarmerJayhawk

I respectfully disagree. I would not be surprised to see Moore start at PG until Dotson gets acclimated.

I'm in the camp that thinks Dotson will be too good to keep out of the starting lineup. His ball handling and driving ability will be the best on the team by far.

I will be completely shocked if Dotson isn't a starter from Day-1.

JayHawkFanToo said:

@FarmerJayhawk

I respectfully disagree. I would not be surprised to see Moore start at PG until Dotson gets acclimated.

Ya I was kind of thinking the same thing. - Would not surprise me at all if Moore at least starts the first few games then Dotson take over the spot a little later in the season.

I'd be MORE shocked if Grimes didn't start from day one then I would be shocked with Dotson - - - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@Jayballer54 I'm with @BeddieKU23 on this. While Moore could get the nod a few games early, I think the talent difference between he and Moore is more than Grimes perhaps Vick/Newman. But it sounds like we all are expecting a lot from the freshman.

Try this .. If Vick and Newman are gone, and no Langford, could Moore, Dotson and Grimes all start? Lots of ball handling there.

HighEliteMajor said:

@Jayballer54 I'm with @BeddieKU23 on this. While Moore could get the nod a few games early, I think the talent difference between he and Moore is more than Grimes perhaps Vick/Newman. But it sounds like we all are expecting a lot from the freshman.

If Dotson wasn't the starter at PG to start the season I think it would be Grimes that beats him out. Nothing against Charlie, I just don't think he's a point guard yet. He's an option if we need it and somehow Devon or Quentin was behind Self's learning curve or he wanted to send a message to them. I'm still kind of puzzled at the Moore signing with how we recruited over him. Charlie has some Frank scoring ability in him and hopefully can become more Nic Moore or Sr Mason later in his career for us.

I know the staff did an unbelievable job establishing relationships with Devon & Quentin but let's be real, Self doesn't land 2 McDonald's All American's without giving them some kind of promise of playing time. Both of those recruitment's were contentious and they could have gone somewhere else to play 30 minutes a game.

Try this .. If Vick and Newman are gone, and no Langford, could Moore, Dotson and Grimes all start? Lots of ball handling there.

Ouch, small lineup but certainly not out of the realm of possibility. I think Self would sign another guard in that situation because you can't see Self having no point guard depth again like he's dealing with this season.

HighEliteMajor said:

@Jayballer54 I'm with @BeddieKU23 on this. While Moore could get the nod a few games early, I think the talent difference between he and Moore is more than Grimes perhaps Vick/Newman. But it sounds like we all are expecting a lot from the freshman.

Try this .. If Vick and Newman are gone, and no Langford, could Moore, Dotson and Grimes all start? Lots of ball handling there.

Oh I agree for sure, and I also agree with what was said, what I was saying that for the 1st few games to start the season you will more likely then not see Moor get the start. I have no doubt it won't take long for Devon to take hi spot - -Been a big Dotson fan from the get go.

Ya your right I think there is a lot being expected - - I just hope not TO MUCH. pretty easy to expect to much too early.- -no mater the talent - -they are still Freshmen - gonna take a period to adjust no matter what. - -Look at the talent Kentucky has this year with their Freshmen - but still I agree with you 100%

Ya that would be some ball handling for sure - -yet I hope it doesn't out like that , hopefully Vick and or Langford will be here - -at least one or the other- - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

JayHawkFanToo said:

@FarmerJayhawk

I respectfully disagree. I would not be surprised to see Moore start at PG until Dotson gets acclimated.

Ah. I probably wasn’t clear. I was assuming in that case Newman would be back and start at PG, sharing duties with Grimes.

JayHawkFanToo said:

@FarmerJayhawk

I respectfully disagree. I would not be surprised to see Moore start at PG until Dotson gets acclimated.

Moore isn't quite Cunliffe but I don't think he is a guy that ever starts in an ideal world. He just isn't all that good.

HighEliteMajor said:

@Jayballer54 I'm with @BeddieKU23 on this. While Moore could get the nod a few games early, I think the talent difference between he and Moore is more than Grimes perhaps Vick/Newman. But it sounds like we all are expecting a lot from the freshman.

Try this .. If Vick and Newman are gone, and no Langford, could Moore, Dotson and Grimes all start? Lots of ball handling there.

I think Self would go with Dotson, Grimes and Garrett. I hope it doesn't come to this though.

@BShark it shouldn't. Heard today that Newman has at least expressed interest in coming back, as to tell the staff not to give away his spot. What a coup that would be!

BeddieKU23 said:

HighEliteMajor said:

@Jayballer54 I'm with @BeddieKU23 on this. While Moore could get the nod a few games early, I think the talent difference between he and Moore is more than Grimes perhaps Vick/Newman. But it sounds like we all are expecting a lot from the freshman.

If Dotson wasn't the starter at PG to start the season I think it would be Grimes that beats him out. Nothing against Charlie, I just don't think he's a point guard yet. He's an option if we need it and somehow Devon or Quentin was behind Self's learning curve or he wanted to send a message to them. I'm still kind of puzzled at the Moore signing with how we recruited over him. Charlie has some Frank scoring ability in him and hopefully can become more Nic Moore or Sr Mason later in his career for us.

I know the staff did an unbelievable job establishing relationships with Devon & Quentin but let's be real, Self doesn't land 2 McDonald's All American's without giving them some kind of promise of playing time. Both of those recruitment's were contentious and they could have gone somewhere else to play 30 minutes a game.

Try this .. If Vick and Newman are gone, and no Langford, could Moore, Dotson and Grimes all start? Lots of ball handling there.

Ouch, small lineup but certainly not out of the realm of possibility. I think Self would sign another guard in that situation because you can't see Self having no point guard depth again like he's dealing with this season.

Remember how Nic Moore didn't really work out at the university games? Admittedly in a small sample size. This is my worry with Charlie.

Everything I've read indicates Self promised pt and starting positions to Dotson and Grimes. Some people aren't going to believe that and I get it. Obviously if things don't work out, Self can change the line-up. Initially they will start though.

If no Langford, Vick and Newman I definitely see Self adding another guard (plus hopefully Agbaji). No idea who it would be at this point. Maybe a grad transfer but that could be a tough sell for a grad transfer to come somewhere to be depth. We saw how the stache flaked out in that situation.

FarmerJayhawk said:

@BShark it shouldn't. Heard today that Newman has at least expressed interest in coming back, as to tell the staff not to give away his spot. What a coup that would be!

!alt text ↗

!alt text ↗

The doge meme is the best non-KU meme and I'll fight anyone who says otherwise.

@FarmerJayhawk looks like my dog when he sees the prairie dogs out my car window, or if I crack the window he can hear them squeaking.

But yeah Newman coming back would be incredible. He has really turned a corner and I could only imagine him after another off season.

I'd be stoked. If we get Romeo, that's a great small rotation.

@BShark

Moore had a solid freshman year and has one year learning the system. I am not saying the he will be the starter all season but it would not surprise me if he starts a few games until Dotson is used to playing Division I.

@JayHawkFanToo I just don't think he is a good fit, but obviously I could be wrong.

Newman returning would be more important then Vick as it currently stands.

I'm impressed if Malik is actually telling the staff his interest in returning. He's definitely matured during his time here.

@BShark

I think Charlie will do some good things for KU in time. He's a scorer and that skill alone will probably have some value next season. His slight frame really scares you in situations but hopefully he's a competitor and plays hard to compensate for it.

Ryan Noel does not believe Vick will be back. Interesting

BShark said:

But yeah Newman coming back would be incredible. He has really turned a corner and I could only imagine him after another off season.

I just don't see him coming back. I just think at seasons end when it's all said and done , he is gone. -- I don't think he would relish the idea of backing up Grimes and YES Grimes would start over Newman Freshmen or not - like has been mentioned I think even by you yourself- I think Self has given these Freshman time and I think Grimes is just to much of a stud not to start, & I just don't feel Newman would be ready for that. - - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

@BeddieKU23 Is that based on NBA potential or is that opinion influenced by the latest developments with Vick?

Hawk8086 said:

@BeddieKU23 Is that based on NBA potential or is that opinion influenced by the latest developments with Vick?

He didn't elaborate on that line.

If I was to assume, I think he was told Vick wasn't returning when the season started. That would make sense in the fact that Romeo Langford is considering KU highly but seems to be waiting to make sure (Vick) leaves before announcing his decision. I'm connecting dots, however this could be wrong.

The latest developments certainly could be a factor as well. Jan 1st, Vick is a possible 1st round pick. Feb 1st, Vick has played himself out of both rounds. He's now been benched twice. I don't believe Vick's situation is like Carlton Bragg or Greene for instance where the door was opened for them...

BeddieKU23 said:

Ryan Noel does not believe Vick will be back. Interesting

Phog post? This move to go to Mitch feels like a long term benefit move and that Vick is done.

Jayballer54 said:

BShark said:

But yeah Newman coming back would be incredible. He has really turned a corner and I could only imagine him after another off season.

I just don't see him coming back. I just think at seasons end when it's all said and done , he is gone. -- I don't think he would relish the idea of backing up Grimes and YES Grimes would start over Newman Freshmen or not - like has been mentioned I think even by you yourself- I think Self has given these Freshman time and I think Grimes is just to much of a stud not to start, & I just don't feel Newman would be ready for that. - - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

If Newman stays, I don't think we get Romeo. I think the starting guards would be Dotson, Newman and Grimes.

Everything I see/read now indicates that Newman is really loving his time here. What a turnaround for this kid. Stay or go, he's a Jayhawk in my book now. :thumbsup:

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

Ryan Noel does not believe Vick will be back. Interesting

Phog post? This move to go to Mitch feels like a long term benefit move and that Vick is done.

Yeah it was a phog post.

I think as much as its a long term move, its rewarding those who do what Self wants. He clearly would play 4 guards if the 4 guards were all on the same page with their responsibilities. The 4 guard lineup with our roster is still the most effective lineup we can play. Making this move 23 games into the season is a huge risk. But clearly Self is pissed and sending a message

If this doesn't wake Vick up I don't know what will. Or maybe it's just too late and Vick is gone anyway.

@BeddieKU23 Quickly reminded of why I haven't been on the phog in months as soon as I open some threads. I really can't believe how many people think McCormack is going to start next year. Is it because he is a McDAA? I have no idea.

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 Quickly reminded of why I haven't been on the phog in months as soon as I open some threads. I really can't believe how many people think McCormack is going to start next year. Is it because he is a McDAA? I have no idea.

I Think McCormack is going to be a very solid player - - a very solid 4 year player. - I don't think there is any way in hell that he starts next year. - He is going to be a project player , again solid but the first couple of years is going to take time.

One big reason I don't think he will be is because more and more thinking really that Doke may just be back - -didn't think this in the beginning but man Doke still has work to do, which in turn makes McCormack a really good back up to Doke - -let De- Sosua possibly back up Lawson at the 4? - yes? - -no? - then allow Mitch to redshirt. - Just don't see McCormack in any way starting . - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 Quickly reminded of why I haven't been on the phog in months as soon as I open some threads. I really can't believe how many people think McCormack is going to start next year. Is it because he is a McDAA? I have no idea.

Yeah its hard to read stuff on there.

I hope McCormack finds a way to get some minutes next season. He's got some low post moves I'm excited to see the staff work with him on. People see Burger Boy, from Oak Hill and assume. Maybe he surprises. I don't know next years squad is going to have a lot of fresh slates to work with

@BeddieKU23 I don't see him getting much run if Doke is back.

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 I don't see him getting much run if Doke is back.

Agreed he would have a reserve role if Doke comes back. Anxiously awaiting intel on that one

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 Quickly reminded of why I haven't been on the phog in months as soon as I open some threads. I really can't believe how many people think McCormack is going to start next year. Is it because he is a McDAA? I have no idea.

The Phog is a total dumpster fire almost all the time. Not sure why I even go over there anymore. Anyway, I don't think Newman and Langford have much impact on each other. I think we slide Newman to PG and start Grimes and Langford with him. Grimes has enough PG skills to play on the ball, and Newman can in a pinch.

I haven't heard either way whether Vick is gone or not, only that he's almost certain to declare and get feedback. I could see him showing out at the combine and getting drafted mid-2nd, but the 1st round chatter is toast.

Agbaji is wing, that offer doesn't get made at this point without Self knowing either Newman or Vick are leaving. Newman could go to the NBA and Vick could possibly be getting squeezed out of the program. I would also say that offer is a pretty clear sign that Langford is headed elsewhere.

There's also minimal chance of McCormack starting or even playing relevant minutes next season. He's someone who the likely best case scenario is the 4th big overall and 3rd in the low post rotation, but the most likely scenario is he's the 6th big overall and 4th low post big. That doesn't equal big minutes.

Agbaji is wing, that offer doesn't get made at this point without Self knowing either Newman or Vick are leaving. Newman could go to the NBA and Vick could possibly be getting squeezed out of the program. I would also say that offer is a pretty clear sign that Langford is headed elsewhere.

There's also minimal chance of McCormack starting or even playing relevant minutes next season. He's someone who the likely best case scenario is the 4th big overall and 3rd in the low post rotation, but the most likely scenario is he's the 6th big overall and 4th low post big. That doesn't equal big minutes.

There is always a way of making room for players. If Langford comes, Vick is gone. And I think at this point, it is in that order.

Self should be telling the Langford family that he will start and to not worry about Vick.

If Langford commits, say goodbye to Vick.

I also think that if Newman wants to stay and Agbaji wants to come, Cunliffe will get forced out.

I'm not sure how Newman factors in to the Langford decision though. I would think Newman returning would mean no Langford. But if I'm Self, I'm basically begging Langford to come and telling him he is going to get 30 mpg.

In a perfect world where we keep Newman and land Langford:
- PG: Dotson - 28 mpg, Grimes 12 mpg
- SG: Grimes - 20 mpg, Newman 15 mpg, Garrett 5 mpg
- SF: Langford - 30 mpg, Newman 10 mpg
- PF: Lawson - 20 mpg, Lawson/Lightfoot/De Sousa - 20 mpg
- C: Doke - 25 mpg, Lawson, 10 mpg, De Sousa/Lightfoot/Dmac - 5 mpg

Of course someone would have to be ok coming off of the bench in that scenario. And we would really have to buy into the team concept.

Just a query .. given how DeSousa looks, might it be possible that McCormack is better, perhaps more ready to play next fall (at least we shouldn't assume the opposite)?

Also, @Kcmatt7, good stuff. A few non-astute observations - I see no situation where Newman returns and doesn't start; I imagine Moore will get back up PG minutes (why do you favor combo guard Grimes there? I'm not a Moore fan, but combo guard tells me ball handling ain't the priority); I'd be shocked if three freshmen start.

The Ogbaji offer is smart, he's a local'ish rising prospect at a position KU may need someone at if things go a certain way. It's always nice to have your hand in more then one pot in case the top prospect on the board goes somewhere else or there's more attrition at season's end then expected, or planned for. This is Self and his staff making sure they don't get caught empty handed if something happens

@HighEliteMajor Grimes thinks he is a PG but isn't. This could be a point of contention. I hope it isn't though and I like Grimes's game a lot.

BeddieKU23 said:

The Ogbaji offer is smart, he's a local'ish rising prospect at a position KU may need someone at if things go a certain way. It's always nice to have your hand in more then one pot in case the top prospect on the board goes somewhere else or there's more attrition at season's end then expected, or planned for. This is Self and his staff making sure they don't get caught empty handed if something happens

Local-ish is a good way to put it. Apparently he is from Milwaukee originally. Two of the crystal ball picks to KU are people from Wisconsin so maybe they know something. Probably just assuming though.

@HighEliteMajor I think, in my dream scenario, Moore wouldn't play for two reasons. One, Grimes is a PG at the NBA level and has the skillset to play the position. Two, I don't see a scenario where we have those 4 players, and they don't play basically all of the backcourt minutes available. No knocks on Moore. I think he will be a fine player and a great backup PG. But in my opinion, those 4 players are going to be so lights out that we can't afford to have more than 5 minutes a game without having 3 of them on the court at once.

Like I said at the end, someone would have to come off of the bench. I don't know if it would be Newman, Dotson, Grimes or Langford. But someone would have to.

I also think we will have a unfair bias against De Sousa from this season. He was put in a position to fail. HCBS doesn't trust Freshmen bigs as is. I don't know how he would've gained any trust in a month and a half. But, I think De Sousa will be ahead of Big Dave just from this semester experience. Learning to compete day in and day out is as hard as anything these guys have to learn. I've also watched David play against Vernon Carey. Big Dave is so far away from being able to play against P5 competition. He still has 20 lbs to lose and he needs to learn how to play D without fouling. He is a major project with major upside. But next year isn't going to be when we see him. At least from what I have seen.

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

The Ogbaji offer is smart, he's a local'ish rising prospect at a position KU may need someone at if things go a certain way. It's always nice to have your hand in more then one pot in case the top prospect on the board goes somewhere else or there's more attrition at season's end then expected, or planned for. This is Self and his staff making sure they don't get caught empty handed if something happens

Local-ish is a good way to put it. Apparently he is from Milwaukee originally. Two of the crystal ball picks to KU are people from Wisconsin so maybe they know something. Probably just assuming though.

In the last month Ogbaji has been to what 2-3 games, KU has sent assistants to watch his games and then Self went and saw him in person. I think its easy to assume that KU has legitimate interest in him and not just conditionally recruiting him. I'm not ready to connect the dots on what recruiting him means. It sounds as if KU really likes him despite his ranking etc (which I'm sure will go up) now that he's gotten a slew of Power 5 offers

He is going to go way up in the rankings for people that care about that kind of thing.

@HighEliteMajor

That's a good question actually in regards to McCormack. If Doke leaves who's the 5 next year? Lawson & De Sousa have the size to slide over to that position it looks but neither is your prototypical Center. McCormack is a true Center so in theory maybe he has a leg up there. He's played against top competition for years whether it was for Oak Hill or his AAU squad so at least we know he's been exposed to situations where he's up against some really good players. As @Kcmatt7 mentioned he recently played against Vernon Carey a top 2 2019 prospect and struggled to defend him for the most part. In his defense Carey is probably one of the Top 5-7 HS prospect overall right now. He'd be top 5 in 2018 in my opinion. Dave has come a long ways with his body, athleticism and overall skill level. Just seems like a guy that needs a year to adjust before his impact starts to be felt on a regular basis

@BeddieKU23 If Carey has to play in college, the team that gets him is in for a real treat. SPECIMEN. He would thrive under Self.

@Kcmatt7 I get what Grimes wants to be, as @BShark mentions. And I do not doubt for a minute the PG in the NBA thing you state (though at 6'5", that path is available too as a SG). But I think you will agree, when you see "combo guard", that at least means that ball handling is a work in progress. I recall this same discussion about Selden. I was a big naysayer when it came to Selden at the PG spot, mainly because of ball handling (D-1 ball handling is many steps above anything these guys have seen). But I just don't know Grimes' ball handling competence. I'm making some assumptions.

With Self's love for ball handling, I don't think it's far-fetched to think we could see Moore, Dotson, and Grimes together. If Newman/Vick leave, and we whiff on Langford, and grab a four year guy, this seems like a possibility.

@BShark

KU might have a good pitch to sell him depending on how the post situation shakes out between now and next season. I know we are not close to his favorite but we are in on him in some capacity. We will see what happens

HighEliteMajor said:

@Kcmatt7 I get what Grimes wants to be, as @BShark mentions. And I do not doubt for a minute the PG in the NBA thing you state (though at 6'5", that path is available too as a SG). But I think you will agree, when you see "combo guard", that at least means that ball handling is a work in progress. I recall this same discussion about Selden. I was a big naysayer when it came to Selden at the PG spot, mainly because of ball handling (D-1 ball handling is many steps above anything these guys have seen). But I just don't know Grimes' ball handling competence. I'm making some assumptions.

With Self's love for ball handling, I don't think it's far-fetched to think we could see Moore, Dotson, and Grimes together. If Newman/Vick leave, and we whiff on Langford, and grab a four year guy, this seems like a possibility.

Grimes is more of a point guard than Selden, but he still isn't really a point guard. Certainly I think he is capable of being a guard, whereas Selden was really a wing.

Selden kind of bullied his way to the rim in HS. Grimes is shifty with his body control and is willing to pass.

Ryan Noel said a couple scouts used Brandon Roy as a comp for Selden. Wouldn't be the worst tbh, of course injuries really derailed Roy.

BeddieKU23 said:

@HighEliteMajor

That's a good question actually in regards to McCormack. If Doke leaves who's the 5 next year? Lawson & De Sousa have the size to slide over to that position it looks but neither is your prototypical Center. McCormack is a true Center so in theory maybe he has a leg up there. He's played against top competition for years whether it was for Oak Hill or his AAU squad so at least we know he's been exposed to situations where he's up against some really good players. As @Kcmatt7 mentioned he recently played against Vernon Carey a top 2 2019 prospect and struggled to defend him for the most part. In his defense Carey is probably one of the Top 5-7 HS prospect overall right now. He'd be top 5 in 2018 in my opinion. Dave has come a long ways with his body, athleticism and overall skill level. Just seems like a guy that needs a year to adjust before his impact starts to be felt on a regular basis

When has Self ever cared if his low post players are 4's or 5's at the college level? KU has had plenty of years where they've had what we would consider to be two 4's starting in the low post. If Doke leaves, the low post will still be just fine with Dedric, DeSousa, and McCormack who are capable low post players.

@HighEliteMajor

I know you mentioned this kid a while back, Tyger Campbell. Committed to UCLA yesterday. A big get for them, 4 year PG who will leave his mark on the Bruins

BeddieKU23 said:

@HighEliteMajor

I know you mentioned this kid a while back, Tyger Campbell. Committed to UCLA yesterday. A big get for them, 4 year PG who will leave his mark on the Bruins

He was a kid I was thinking KU could try to get in on if we missed on Dotson or Grimes.

If Langford comes, he will be the most talented player on the roster.

If Langford doesn't come, either Grimes or D. Lawson will be the best player on the roster.

Building out the lineup from there, with Langford, the lineup is probably Dotson, Grimes, Langford, Lawson, Azubuike. Look at that lineup again. That is filthy. And that doesn't account for Moore, KJ, Mitch, maybe Vick and/or Newman, Cunliffe, McCormack, De Sousa, etc.

As shallow as this team is right now, next season could be equally deep. Even without Langford, we're still looking at a very deep team with experience, talent, and depth at every position. Azubuike and McCormack at the 5. D. Lawson and Lightfoot at the 4. KJ and Vick at the 3. Malik and Grimes at the 2. Dotson and Moore at the 1. And Sam Cunliffe is on the roster, too. So is Silvio De Sousa. This team is scary deep. Even if Vick, Malik and Azubuike all leave, you still have Dotson, Moore, Grimes, Cunliffe, KJ, Dedric, Mitch, De Sousa, and McCormack (and maybe Langford, too). That's deeper than this year's squad, with more talent, too.

It's shaping up to be a lot of paper talent.

I would absolutely love to see at least 1 starter return. That way you have someone who's been through the grind and knows what's expected. That helps the new guys because they have someone to follow. A returning Nucleus of Doke, Newman or Vick, Lightfoot & Garrett would be ideal.

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

@HighEliteMajor

I know you mentioned this kid a while back, Tyger Campbell. Committed to UCLA yesterday. A big get for them, 4 year PG who will leave his mark on the Bruins

He was a kid I was thinking KU could try to get in on if we missed on Dotson or Grimes.

I don't think we ever gave him a look. Not really sure he was a fit here with what Self likes to recruit at the position

Lawson will be our best player. Of course it helps that he will be 21 before he plays a game for KU and was already a badass at Memphis.

BeddieKU23 said:

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

@HighEliteMajor

I know you mentioned this kid a while back, Tyger Campbell. Committed to UCLA yesterday. A big get for them, 4 year PG who will leave his mark on the Bruins

He was a kid I was thinking KU could try to get in on if we missed on Dotson or Grimes.

I don't think we ever gave him a look. Not really sure he was a fit here with what Self likes to recruit at the position

Yeah idk. If you believe that KU pretty much had Dotson and Grimes done for awhile everything makes a lot of sense. I think KU had a lot of good options this cycle.

@BShark

Yeah I think we as fans might have sweated it out more then the staff. The more time that passes makes you think they were just babying the process until these kids wanted to decide on their own. Glad it was early this cycle. Makes recruiting Langford and Ogbaji easier because the staff has a much easier time recruiting a certain position of need or trying to get extra depth

justanotherfan said:

Building out the lineup from there, with Langford, the lineup is probably Dotson, Grimes, Langford, Lawson, Azubuike. Look at that lineup again. That is filthy. And that doesn't account for Moore, KJ, Mitch, maybe Vick and/or Newman, Cunliffe, McCormack, De Sousa, etc.

As shallow as this team is right now, next season could be equally deep. Even without Langford, we're still looking at a very deep team with experience, talent, and depth at every position. Azubuike and McCormack at the 5. D. Lawson and Lightfoot at the 4. KJ and Vick at the 3. Malik and Grimes at the 2. Dotson and Moore at the 1. And Sam Cunliffe is on the roster, too. So is Silvio De Sousa. This team is scary deep. Even if Vick, Malik and Azubuike all leave, you still have Dotson, Moore, Grimes, Cunliffe, KJ, Dedric, Mitch, De Sousa, and McCormack (and maybe Langford, too). That's deeper than this year's squad, with more talent, too.

It would be the most talent we have had in awhile.

I think Doke is back and KJ is more of a 4 but no matter how you slice it next year's team should have good depth.

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

Yeah I think we as fans might have sweated it out more then the staff. The more time that passes makes you think they were just babying the process until these kids wanted to decide on their own. Glad it was early this cycle. Makes recruiting Langford and Ogbaji easier because the staff has a much easier time recruiting a certain position of need or trying to get extra depth

Yeah I think if it was even kind of iffy KU would have kept in much better contact with Ayo and Carey.

Matt Scott just posted a cryptic thread weeee.

Oh, it's Agbaji. He is announcing tomorrow. That escalated QUICKLY.

@BShark So would that be for us then if he is announcing so quickly?

@BShark So where do you think he's going?

It's Kansas.

So which guard(s) is likely to leave early? Cunliffe, Vick, Newman, Moore? (Need another scholly or two if Romeo is interested)

Methinks Sam and Vick are not long for this roster. @BShark is right, Ogbaji will be a Jayhawk tomorrow.

@FarmerJayhawk Cunliffe getting the Self axe (I wonder if he sharpened it, it's been a minute) and Newman staying would be pretty ideal.

Agbaji is putting up good numbers with the caveat that it's KC area ball. He should win the player of the year award for the metro. I'll be interested to see where he ends up in the rankings. Not sure how much of it will be actually seeing him play vs his offers exploding and ending up at KU.

@BShark

In my haste to put that together, I forgot completely about including Garrett in those lineups. Even if Newman and Vick both leave, this team is in good shape next year regardless of whether Langford signs or not.

Langford just adds to the embarrassment of riches. If he doesn't come, maybe Agbaji joins up as a four year player. Dotson is here for two years at least. Moore is here for three more. Garrett is here for at least two more unless his shot really progresses. Cunliffe probably stays. I don't see how Azubuike leaves for the NBA this year. He isn't ready to play at that level yet on the defensive end, and his offense isn't far enough along.

KU has a bunch of really good college players that they can group together with potentially two superstar talents (Lawson and Grimes), maybe even three with Langford. Not many teams in the country will be able to match that.

justanotherfan said:

@BShark

In my haste to put that together, I forgot completely about including Garrett in those lineups. Even if Newman and Vick both leave, this team is in good shape next year regardless of whether Langford signs or not.

Langford just adds to the embarrassment of riches. If he doesn't come, maybe Agbaji joins up as a four year player. Dotson is here for two years at least. Moore is here for three more. Garrett is here for at least two more unless his shot really progresses. Cunliffe probably stays. I don't see how Azubuike leaves for the NBA this year. He isn't ready to play at that level yet on the defensive end, and his offense isn't far enough along.

KU has a bunch of really good college players that they can group together with potentially two superstar talents (Lawson and Grimes), maybe even three with Langford. Not many teams in the country will be able to match that.

Well regardless of what Langford does, Agbaji should be announcing for KU tomorrow. Too many reliable people have said this for me to think it could be any other pick.

Langford will continue to be recruited too, tifwiw.

Everyone is talking about Doke like he will be back. He is such a rough fit for the NBA and allegedly still young (this is debatable). I think he stays too.

I think Dedric is easily conference POTY good, maybe some national honors too. If the starting line-up is indeed Dedric and Doke, we are talking about not just playing in the post, but living in the post.

It will be KU

We’ve picked up a couple picks for 2019 top 5 guy Matt Hurt. Asked a Duke friend of mine and he told me they’re recruiting like Hurt is leaving the Midwest.

Can't imagine Ogbaji is announcing for anyone other then KU

When is the announcement? (what time?)

RockkChalkk said:

When is the announcement? (what time?)

2PM Kansas time.

247 just changed the interest level to favorite for KU. I don't think I've seen them do that and be wrong.

@BeddieKU23 https://247sports.com/Player/Tevian-Jones-91014 ↗

🐦 View Tweet

Something is brewing. Getting Agbaji AND going to check this kid out.

@BShark

Interesting..

I try not to jump to conclusions but things don't look good for Cunliffe. Or landing Romeo for that matter, though this could just be due diligence. Jones would be probably one of the best 2g/wings we could realistically get in on at this point if things don't work out with Romeo*. It certainly looks like we have two spots available.

*Looks like Simons is flirting with pro options, and I think he is getting paid regardless of where he ends up so I'm glad to see KU isn't in on him.

@BShark Wow. So Cunliffe has the writing on the wall. I don't think signing him impacts Langford still. At least in theory. I mean if Vick and Newman both leave, the path is till paved for him.

@BShark You're probably right on Cunliffe. There is a window though, I think. Vick and Newman leave. We don't get Langford or another ready to play wing. Our starters could be Dotson, Grimes, and Cunliffe. Why Cunliffe over Garrett? Shooting. We go from a shooting based team to team that really can't shoot. Who can shoot? Sam. The more Garrett makes shots, the more that window closes, of course.

But if Self is constructing a lineup, he'll be thinking about shooting. Still, I admit the window is small.

@BShark

Yeah it doesn't look good for Sam.

I still don't believe this has anything to do with Langford. Vick & Newman leave I can imagine he's still coming here. There's a starting spot with his name on it. Of course if 1/2 return that window doesn't look as good for him coming here.

If I'm seeing this correctly Illinois & Zona are on Jones at the moment?

Kcmatt7 said:

@BShark Wow. So Cunliffe has the writing on the wall. I don't think signing him impacts Langford still. At least in theory. I mean if Vick and Newman both leave, the path is till paved for him.

I would assume Langford will be recruited until the end, because that is what you do with elite talent you've been recruiting unless they are ordered to cut you like a player who shall remain nameless COUGHCOUGHS F$WKT$#WJayson TatumCOUGH COUGH.

I see Simmons going to the draft, looks like he's a first rounder.

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

Yeah it doesn't look good for Sam.

I still don't believe this has anything to do with Langford. Vick & Newman leave I can imagine he's still coming here. There's a starting spot with his name on it. Of course if 1/2 return that window doesn't look as good for him coming here.

If I'm seeing this correctly Illinois & Zona are on Jones at the moment?

Zona, Illinois and UCONN have all offered. I think this could just be getting in on a back-up plan that isn't close to committing in case Romeo doesn't work out.

@HighEliteMajor I think there is a good chance Self is just done with Sam. Just my speculation but he just never felt like he would be a good fit. Everything I've heard about Agbaji indicates he is the opposite of Cunliffe's I'm filming my practices crap.

@BeddieKU23 is right. Simons will go if he's a 1st rounder. The Jones thing is interesting. We haven't offered yet, so I'd bet we're just trying to build a relationship just in case Langford doesn't work out or we have a surprise departure like Sam. I like his game though. Good athlete, can defend multiple spots, and has a rapidly developing skillset on offense.

@FarmerJayhawk

I think you nailed it on Jones

http://www.810varsity.com/news_article/show/884741 ↗

You would think that getting Agbaji would be a very good get and maybe the beginning of the end of the recruitment of Langford. As the expression goes a bird in hand is worth two in the bush.

@BShark

Not getting suckered into another ceremony. Grimes & Dotson wasted many many hours of my life I can't get back.

Will see the good news posted when it goes official

Self was asked about Cunliffe at his presser today. Between what was said and his expressions, I am not sure Sam ever plays much here.

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

Not getting suckered into another ceremony. Grimes & Dotson wasted many many hours of my life I can't get back.

Will see the good news posted when it goes official

I'm sure it will be painful again. I'll take one for the team even though we already know.

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

Not getting suckered into another ceremony. Grimes & Dotson wasted many many hours of my life I can't get back.

Will see the good news posted when it goes official

I'm sure it will be painful again. I'll take one for the team even though we already know.

Please report the details haha

@BeddieKU23 Feed has been "live" for a few minutes now. Still no sound and appears to be a splash page. Professional as expected.

Thanking coaches and such...

It's Kansas. His dad was wearing a KU hat THE ENTIRE TIME. Lol.

Pretty sure on the hat, it was kinda hard to tell with the video quality.

“That’s always been a dream of mine. It’s a honor that they want me to play for them.”

WHAT AN UPSTANDING YOUNG MAN.

We'll see how quickly he zooms into the top 100. Might be lightning speed.

“I talked with my family after I had been offered and it was just like, 'What else are we really looking for,'” Agbaji told the Journal-World. “We didn't have a specific school in mind and we could easily see this being the right fit for me.”

“That's a strength for me,” Agbaji said of his versatility. “I can post up, I can drive, I can shoot. But something that I really want to work on is handling the ball better. I wouldn't say I'm bad but to get around elite defenders and stuff like that, I really need to work on that.”

This kind of self-awareness is good and is in line with everything I've heard about him being coachable.

“I just feel like I can come in and be tough and be a sit-down defender and just work hard to make the team better,” Agbaji said. “That's what they're really looking for and I can shoot the ball, too. Coach Self said when he watched me that my defense was one thing he saw, that I have a good stance, good slide and stuff like that. It's an honor, honestly, to receive that praise from the best of the best. It's just exciting.”

:heart_eyes:

Agbaji, whose father is from Nigeria and whose sister, Orie, plays volleyball at Texas, said he made up his mind on Sunday night — just over 24 hours after the offer came from Self and KU assistant Norm Roberts — and spent the next few days both looking forward to his commitment ceremony and preparing for Friday's rematch with North Kansas City, one of the two teams to beat Oak Park this season.

“That's the reason why I kind of cut it off short and said KU,” said Agbaji, whose name means “King of Children” in Nigerian. “I just wanted to get all that pressure off and focus on going as far as we can in the postseason.”

Whoever was wondering, his dad is from Africa.

@HighEliteMajor Kind of unreal going from no P5 offers to 7 in about a week.

!alt text ↗

Statement from his twitter. He is all over local radio right now. Will be on 1320 AM at 3pm.

Good nugget on him from Matt Scott

"AAU teams don't have the opportunity to practice together every day like a high school team can. AAU teams have a little time during the months of March, April, May and July. A lot of players go to various camps in June so there isn't much time to practice. When teams do get to practice together the practices are usually long, tough and demanding because there aren't a lot of opportunities to practice. Over the years I've seen a lot complaining. A lot of whining and a lot of excuses. I never once saw Ochai complain, whine or have an excuse. All I saw him do was go as hard as he possibly could every single minute he was on the court. Every drill, every play, every minute. He is easily one of the more impressive kids I've been around on the AAU circuit."

Really been loving our recruiting for 2018. Seems like we are getting guys that want to play for the name on the front of the jersey instead of the back. Big Dave clearly has his head on straight. Dotson and Grimes fell in love with KU. Ochai seems to be level-headed. It's fantastic.

Add that group plus Jacobs in 2019 and we have been, it seems at least, prioritized high character kids over talent. Of course some of these guys obviously have both. But I'm really liking this wave of future Jayhawks we have coming in.

Just a rumor, but I hear he has two or three transcript issues; a booster might have helped with some travel money a while back; he drives a late model car given to him by his cousin's, half-sister's, domestic partner; his mom may have borrowed some money from a "friend" within the last week; he enjoys shooting at passers-by with his airsoft rifle; and, of course, he partakes in a bong every so often.

Now, of course, I could just be confusing this kid with someone else.

BShark said:

“I just feel like I can come in and be tough and be a sit-down defender and just work hard to make the team better,” Agbaji said. >

We already have plenty of sit-down defenders, sitting down as the other team drives right past them. I think he meant "shut-down" defender which is hopefully what he will become because this team can badly use it.

Sounds like he might be a bit like Garrett?

Agbaji will probably end up reminding a lot of people around here of Travis Releford. He's a great HS scorer, but that will likely not be his role in college. I think he understands that and will make defense and versatility his calling card. He will be a four year guy that may well end up having a career not that dissimilar from other versatile, somewhat local wing guys like Steve Woodberry and Travis Releford.

I like his shooting ability, he should be someone that can make 3s etc. I like it!

I'd take another T-Rel!

Hawk8086 said:

Sounds like he might be a bit like Garrett?

MUCH better shooter. Not even in the same stratosphere. His ball handling is what he needs to work on which he seems to be rather aware of which is good. But in terms of work ethic, being coachable, junkyard dog and just a quality kid, definitely!

justanotherfan said:

Agbaji will probably end up reminding a lot of people around here of Travis Releford. He's a great HS scorer, but that will likely not be his role in college. I think he understands that and will make defense and versatility his calling card. He will be a four year guy that may well end up having a career not that dissimilar from other versatile, somewhat local wing guys like Steve Woodberry and Travis Releford.

Seen the Releford comp thrown around a lot with the caveat of "better shooter".

“It had gotten to the point where it was getting overwhelming,” said Olofu Agbaji, Ochai’s father. “He had said he wanted to wait until the end of the season, but once KU was interested, everyone started calling. “We said (that) we might have to considering committing sooner rather than letting the flood gates open. And he knew what he wanted after KU offered.

KU signs Ochai Agbaji (pronounced Och-eye Uh-bah-gee), currently unranked by Rivals.com and listed as a 3-star, No. 328-ranked player in the country by 247 Sports' composite rankings, picked KU just five days after receiving a scholarship offer from Bill Self and the Jayhawks. He hails from KC and prob will be a 4 year guy. Does this mean no Langford?

@BShark can't wait to hear Fran pronounce his name since he still can't say Mykhailiuk right- thank heavens for spell check since I can't spell it either🤪

Releford wasn't as good of a shooter out of HS, but by the time he left KU, he was a 40% three point guy. Agbaji is probably going to come in able to shoot close to that. If he can clean up his ball handling, I could certainly see him being an improved version of Releford by the end of his career. This is a good get for KU, that could end up being a great get.

@kjayhawks I don’t think this hurts our chances of landing Romeo because theres no way this kid starts over him. This does create an interesting scholarship situation though, especially if Romeo does commit because someone’s definitely getting the boot.

@BShark i love this kid, everything about him!

He has a certain old man style of play I enjoy. I like the mid-range jumpers, I like seeing him dunk off a lob. I think it's going to take him some time to be able to play at the college level, but I like getting a good potential 4 year guy who will develop as he goes along. He might be Sam's replacement.

Great get for KU. The kid sounds like the perfect system player that will produce for more than a couple of years and his statement shows a pretty level headed and thoughtful individual. Good athlete, good person, I like him.

!alt text ↗

Grimes won the Houston area POTY award. No surprise there.

@BShark

Hair game gonna fit in at KU lol

@BeddieKU23 The in dorm barber has to be a sick recruiting advantage.

🐦 View Tweet

:heart_eyes:

https://247sports.com/Player/LJ-Cryer-46043235 ↗

CB's for Markese's brother to Illinois. Wonder if he follows him when its all said and done

BeddieKU23 said:

CB's for Markese's brother to Illinois. Wonder if he follows him when its all said and done

If he does, I think it would be more of KU moving on. I'd rather not see that happen though, I like Markese long term.

KU has a lot of good options in 2019 and will probably have no seniors.

Interesting question, let's say Vick and Newman (or Cunliffe) leave so there is an open scholarship. We don't land Romeo in this scenario. Would you rather just leave the scholarship open? I would, unless it's a grad transfer which seems super unlikely given the stacked roster. 12 eligible players is more than enough and leaves room for 2019.

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

CB's for Markese's brother to Illinois. Wonder if he follows him when its all said and done

If he does, I think it would be more of KU moving on. I'd rather not see that happen though, I like Markese long term.

KU has a lot of good options in 2019 and will probably have no seniors.

Interesting question, let's say Vick and Newman (or Cunliffe) leave so there is an open scholarship. We don't land Romeo in this scenario. Would you rather just leave the scholarship open? I would, unless it's a grad transfer which seems super unlikely given the stacked roster. 12 eligible players is more than enough and leaves room for 2019.

I think you go after the best available perimeter player if All 3 leave and Romeo doesn't come. I would not let a scholarship go to waste without vetting what's available in the spring. I'd be looking for a shooter with athleticism and another ball handler. Of course if Doke leaves as well we better start calling EJ Montgomery today..

@BeddieKU23 Part of why I feel good about Doke staying is that we haven't heard anything about KU even kicking the tires around on available post players.

I guess it could be that Self is content with 2x Lawson, Mitch, Silvio and McCormack but I have a feeling Doke will be back.

EJ is already visiting UNC, Duke and UK. I doubt we bother.

I'm sure Self will look at guard options but if it isn't a one year player I'd like to have the slot open. Romeo is the best option by a lot.

@BeddieKU23 I remember you said you had a contact at Brewster. Could you ask him about https://247sports.com/Player/Walter-Ellis-46045199 ↗

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 Part of why I feel good about Doke staying is that we haven't heard anything about KU even kicking the tires around on available post players.

I guess it could be that Self is content with 2x Lawson, Mitch, Silvio and McCormack but I have a feeling Doke will be back.

EJ is already visiting UNC, Duke and UK. I doubt we bother.

I'm sure Self will look at guard options but if it isn't a one year player I'd like to have the slot open. Romeo is the best option by a lot.

I hope he returns, he'll finally have someone to play beside.

I agree Romeo is the best option by a mile. And if we miss on him its in the "Ayton, Young" category. I think missing on him if the guys leave that might get nudged out etc would be a gigantic miss. Romeo can help this team win games with how many guys could potentially leaving the program at season's end. Talent can overcome experience.

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 I remember you said you had a contact at Brewster. Could you ask him about https://247sports.com/Player/Walter-Ellis-46045199 ↗

He was mentioned as someone that would do better at a Mid-Major D-1 school. A few P5 teams have kicked the bucket on him but he has mostly outside P5 offers. My contact has always said KU should have pursued Isiah Mucius harder. He's mentioned that Manning's job might not be as safe as it was weeks ago..

@BeddieKU23 I don't think he is as much of a need as Ayton but of course we would be better with him. I also don't think he is Trae Young in terms of impact but of course I didn't think Trae Young was in HS either lol. The "worst case scenario" of Dotson, Grimes, Garrett, Moore, Cunliffe and Agbaji is pretty good.

If Danny get canned (good lord he is 9-16 this year and 52-65 overall at Wake so I could see it) I'd hope the staff takes a real look at Mucius if he becomes available.

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 I don't think he is as much of a need as Ayton but of course we would be better with him. I also don't think he is Trae Young in terms of impact but of course I didn't think Trae Young was in HS either lol. The "worst case scenario" of Dotson, Grimes, Garrett, Moore, Cunliffe and Agbaji is pretty good.

If Danny get canned (good lord he is 9-16 this year and 52-65 overall at Wake so I could see it) I'd hope the staff takes a real look at Mucius if he becomes available.

The more time that passes I see Langford having a big impact if he came to KU. And I don't necessary mean Romeo stands out individually like a Wiggins/Embiid/JJ did. I don't think he's that type of prospect, more in the mold of Oubre IMO. We are potentially losing so much on the perimeter that you want to replace those guys with the best available talent and we both agree he's that. I just love his size for the perimeter and he'd be another shooter on a squad that could struggle without him. At this moment I'm considering Romeo a must have signing.

@BShark

My contact said Mucius loves the academic portion of Wake as well which KU can't really compete with..Even if Manning is gone he's the type of kid that would be hard to sway away unless the new coach wasn't someone he got along with. We'll see what happens. Mucius is kind of in the mold of KJ but probably shoots better from the perimeter. We'll see I'm hoping KJ has put a ton of work into his shooting this year

@BeddieKU23 Okay interesting to know and yeah KU can't compete with WF academically. I wonder if Chaundee Brown would be a transfer candidate. We were obviously very interested in him out of HS. Of course, he couldn't help next year...

@BShark

I'd take Brown in a heartbeat if he was available.

Mucius was big on relationship and academics. Hoard would be someone we'd have a better chance with if he opened up.

Jaylen Hoard would be an incredible Self steal.

BShark said:

Jaylen Hoard would be an incredible Self steal.

Hoard really didn't visit many other schools either which is part of the reason I mentioned him. I think his father played overseas and Jaylen came to the states a few years ago. Had a KU offer as well

@BeddieKU23

Manning seat is getting very hot. The good thing he has going for him is that most of the remanint games are agains felllow bottom teams. WF is 2-11 with 5 games left; less than 3 wins in the last 5 games (not counting tournament) and his job is in serious jeopardy.

JayHawkFanToo said:

@BeddieKU23

Manning seat is getting very hot. The good thing he has going for him is that most of the remanint games are agains felllow bottom teams. WF is 2-11 with 5 games left; less than 3 wins in the last 5 games (not counting tournament) and his job is in serious jeopardy.

It's definitely getting hot with the losses piling up. I have a good friend who's connected with Brewster Academy in NH (T-Rob, Tharpe, Graham alum from the school) and Wake has a Top 100 kid signed from Brewster. Just a few weeks ago that recruit was pretty sure he was going to be back despite the struggles. That isn't what my friend is hearing now.

After reading the Wisconsin board a bit I kinda feel bad for them. Didn't realize how bad they were this season and how atrocious their recruiting has been lately. They really wanted Ochai but 99% of them knew it was over immediately if the KU offer was commit-able.

BShark said:

After reading the Wisconsin board a bit I kinda feel bad for them. Didn't realize how bad they were this season and how atrocious their recruiting has been lately. They really wanted Ochai but 99% of them knew it was over immediately if the KU offer was commit-able.

Losing Herro is probably going to haunt their fans for a long time..

@BShark

No question Wisconsin has fallen on hard times; short of winning the Big 10 tournament it will miss the Big Dance.

@BeddieKU23 The worst part has to be that it was fairly obvious even back in May/June. He was always interested in UK and then once it was apparent to UK that they weren't getting Grimes and Cal was kind of luke warm on Romeo they immediately pounced on a kid they knew they could get. Meanwhile it apparently blindsided the UW staff, but not their fanbase. They should have been still evaluating and keeping some fires warm for what was a very real possibility.

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 The worst part has to be that it was fairly obvious even back in May/June. He was always interested in UK and then once it was apparent to UK that they weren't getting Grimes and Cal was kind of luke warm on Romeo they immediately pounced on a kid they knew they could get. Meanwhile it apparently blindsided the UW staff, but not their fanbase. They should have been still evaluating and keeping some fires warm for what was a very real possibility.

Not sure their coach is going to survive much longer. I think Wisconsin has had some injury issues as well which haven't made things any easier

Latest 2019 NBA Mock Draft.

Grimes # 8

Vick #56

Langford #5

Zhaire Smith (Tech) #16

Konate (WVU) #40

@BeddieKU23 You're right. Kobe King, a talented freshman starter and Dimitric Trice a sophomore point guard both out for the season. They have no one that is a real point guard because of the injuries. They lost four times to decent teams in very close games early in the year. Lost to the aholes from Xavier who had the nerve to taunt the Wisconsin crowd at the end of the game, lost to UCLA on a last second shot, lost in the final seconds to Baylor, lost on road at tough Temple and really tough Virginia. Then the injuries hit and things really fell apart.

The jury is out on Gard. He keeps swinging and missing on recruits. His juniors this year other than Happ are complete flops. This years freshmen are good, but no one really to build a program around.

The 4th longest streak of making the dance, a 17 year streak of 4th or better in the big10, and back to the mid 90's streak of a winning record, plus longest streak to the sweet 16 are going to end this year. Been tough to watch. I feel worst for Ethan Happ, a wonderful talent.

But on the bright side, I've watched less basketball this year because I don't feel the urge to watch UW games as much.

BeddieKU23 said:

Latest 2019 NBA Mock Draft.

Grimes # 8

Vick #56

---

Langford #5

Zhaire Smith (Tech) #16

Konate (WVU) #40

Well if this holds up for Grimes he will have to go unless he has some kind of Miles Bridge moment.

@BShark

Yeah being that high already will be interesting to see what happens. I expect him to have a great year next season

I'm thinking around 10-11 ppg and 3-ish apg. Too hard to project rebounds because he likely won't have as many opportunities as our guards the last couple years since we should be returning to two post player line-ups. Though guys like Dedric and KJ are pretty flexible as 4s.

Jahvon Quinerly to announce Wednesday. Sounds like Villanova.. Big pick up for them, Quinerly is a stud.

Wonder what's going to happen with him and the FBI case. I know Jay wouldn't take him unless there wasn't going to be an issue

@wissox Well, at least you have had KU's exciting and consistently excellent season to keep your basketball juices flowing--uh, oops, never mind.....
:upside_down:

@wissox

That's a tough break, I heard King & Trice were supposed to be pretty good this year.

Self will be visiting Romeo today.

BShark said:

Self will be visiting Romeo today.

booom shaka laka

Quinerly to Nova as expected..

O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?
Deny thy Commadores and refuse thy game.
Or if thou wilt not, be but signed to a letter
And no longer be a Hoosier threat.
‘Tis but thy loaded 2018 roster that is thy enemy:
Thou art thyself, though not a Hawk.
What’s Hawk? It is nor handles nor jumper
Nor dunk nor steal nor any other move
Belonging to a OAD. O be some other game.
What’s in a game? That which we call a dunk
By any other name would sound as sweet;
So Romeo would, were he not Romeo call’d,
Retain that dear perfection which he owes
Without that title. Romeo, doff thy game,
And for that game, which is no part of thee,
Take Allen Fieldhouse.

BeddieKU23 said:

Quinerly to Nova as expected..

Probably would have been the pick in the first place if his recruitment had been totally clean.

BShark said:

BeddieKU23 said:

Quinerly to Nova as expected..

Probably would have been the pick in the first place if his recruitment had been totally clean.

Can't disagree there

Wonder if the SF signee for Vandy will have an impact on Langford's decision. Nesmith is set to rise in the rankings and plays the same position as Romeo

@BeddieKU23 Doubtful.

But I think we have this one in the bag imo. If there is PT, Langford is a Hawk. Just say the magic words Bill. "I guarantee you a starting position." And then uncross your fingers and mumble under your breath so you feel better "if you earn it."

Kcmatt7 said:

@BeddieKU23 Doubtful.

But I think we have this one in the bag imo. If there is PT, Langford is a Hawk. Just say the magic words Bill. "I guarantee you a starting position." And then uncross your fingers and mumble under your breath so you feel better "if you earn it."

Yeah I was just pointing out that another one of their signee's is having a great year and looks poised to jump into the 40-60 range in the final rankings. They also have a transfer from Notre Dame sitting out that plays the SF position as well. Vandy is just like KU- has to make or have guys leave to make room for his signature (neither which is a big concern).

To me I think Romeo will be a Hawk. We need him and I think he would impact our championship aspirations for next season

I'd love to get Romeo, but won't we have at least Vick, Garrett, Moore, Cunliffe, Grimes, Dotson, and Lawson filling the 1-3 spots? And we will have Doke, Lightfoot, Lawson, and McCormick for the 4-5 spots. Where's the room for Romeo? Who's our starting five, and who's off the bench?

@hawkmoon2020 I do not expect Vick, Cunliffe or Newman to return. I also believe that Bill will turn KJ into a stretch 4 instead of a Wing.

@hawkmoon2020

@Kcmatt7 just took the words out of my mouth

Add Ogbaji as well who just committed last week

Doke is a wildcard right now as well. Not on NBA radar's but might have a desire to seek a professional job anyway.

Kcmatt7 said:

@BeddieKU23 Doubtful.

But I think we have this one in the bag imo. If there is PT, Langford is a Hawk. Just say the magic words Bill. "I guarantee you a starting position." And then uncross your fingers and mumble under your breath so you feel better "if you earn it."

:laughing:

@hawkmoon2020 Also Silvio at the 5. If Romeo lives up to the hype he should have no problem beating out most or all of the players at the 3. I am in hopes that KJ will be a major surprise that no one is talking much about.

@Big-Clyde52 I kind of think that the 4th post spot will be between Silvio and KJ.

KJ rebounds the ball like a grown ass man. And he is a huge mismatch offensively as a stretch 4. Makes me think post rotation will be Doke, Dedric, Lightfoot and KJ.

@Kcmatt7

Reminds me of UNC's frontcourt last year. Talent, depth, size, scary

@Kcmatt7 Agreed. Not sure of his minutes at Memphis, but he had some good stats. With a year at KU under their belt, I would think the Lawson's would have a leg up on everyone else. If Doke returns, finding minutes for everyone will be a problem. Should be a good problem but you never know.

Does anyone have the usage and efficiency numbers on Dedric at Memphis?

@dylans Dedric had a 27 PER. Would be 2nd on the team this year. He had a 28.6% usage rate. Would be first on the team this year. So, on a crazy amount of touches he was crazy efficient.

Next season's post play may be the most efficient 1-2 punch to ever play next to each other under Bill Self. Between Doke and Dedric, we should get close to 35ppg and we should get it at a 50% fg percentage.

Dedric also had a Defensive rating of 95.5, which would be the best on this year's team.

Just purely looking at stats, Dedric would be the best player on our team by a mile. Of course the competition he played was not near the level he will face next season. But even in his games against good or P5 teams, he put up numbers. 35 on Iowa. 26 on Oklahoma. 21 on Cincinnati. 19 on South Carolina. 19 on Providence.

Basically, if Dedric is motivated he dominates.

Kcmatt7 said:

Just purely looking at stats, Dedric would be the best player on our team by a mile. Of course the competition he played was not near the level he will face next season. But even in his games against good or P5 teams, he put up numbers. 35 on Iowa. 26 on Oklahoma. 21 on Cincinnati. 19 on South Carolina. 19 on Providence.

Basically, if Dedric is motivated he dominates.

But also he wasnt surrounded by a ton of talent so defenses could key on him.

Dedric is going to be a complete badass from everything I've heard.

Also yes, KJ is going to play the 4 spot.

Coach Self seeing Romeo today - - Romeo visiting Vanderbilt Saturday for the Florida game. - - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

I assume Romeo's visit is an official?

Self doing the smart thing getting into his ear before that visit..

It is listed as an unofficial currently.

KU did this with Dotson and Grimes too (checking in before they took visits to other schools).

@BShark

Looks like they are bringing in Garland, Nesmith and two NBA players to recruit him as well. Smart move for Vandy. Wish they weren't making a big deal of it but what can ya do. Was thinking this was a long journey for the Langford's to make but google maps says only 3 hrs from Indiana to Vandy..

Langford is #4 on the All-Time Indiana Scoring Record right now. Friday is his senior night playing against a team who's assistant coach is the all-time leading scorer in Indiana history. If Langford plays the max number of games left he would have to average 39 pts a game to break the record. He's currently at 2,780. Recent games of 63, 53, 44 he's fast approaching close to the top

Didn't realize the hysteria Indiana fans are going to land Langford.. This recruitment certainly isn't easy

Speaking of NBA players I'd love to see Pierce brought on in some role if he'd be down for it.

@BeddieKU23 This recruitment is going to drag out for two more months at least. Vandy rolling out the red carpet in February doesn't worry me.

BeddieKU23 said:

Didn't realize the hysteria Indiana fans are going to land Langford.. This recruitment certainly isn't easy

This is a fun recruitment. Crazy that it never would have even taken place w/o the FBI scandal. Kid loves Louisville still, he just can't go there.

@BShark "Recruiting Liason" sounds nice. He can pick up star recruits in a Limo from the airport and then stop in KC for a nice dinner before they head to Lawrence. Face to face time with a HOFer would be amazing.

Are we still allowed to have DBOs? I feel like Pierce could be a fine, fine director of basketball ops. :joy:

His ESPN gig is going to be hard to top..

@BShark @Kcmatt7

I'm not worried either. There could be a chance he decides at Burger Game which wouldn't be great timing for KU I would think unless our season is over before then and guys have made their intentions known.

@BShark

I would love to see Collison join the program and coach the bigs. His last contract was basically to do just that for the Thunder and looks like he will retire at the end of the season.

JayHawkFanToo said:

@BShark

I would love to see Collison join the program and coach the bigs. His last contract was basically to do just that for the Thunder and looks like he will retire at the end of the season.

Ya that would be pretty sweet. - -I'd like that - what I'd really like would be to see Danny come back and Coach our big's but since he has gotten into head coaching that will never happen so Collison would be good for sure. - - -ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY

I'd like to see scot pollard

@JayHawkFanToo Nick had the best fundamentals on the block I can think of it would be great to have the son of coach back.

@Crimsonorblue22 I do not want Scott Pollard anywhere near the program in an official capacity.

@Kcmatt7 ha ha

@Crimsonorblue22

He has been available for a long time and if it has not happened by now it will likely not ever happen.

Dante from Sunrise in Wichita was great at Basketball Without Borders last weekend. 7'7 wingspan too. KU really ought to have him as their #1 target in 2020, even ahead of RJ Hampton.

FarmerJayhawk said:

Dante from Sunrise in Wichita was great at Basketball Without Borders last weekend. 7'7 wingspan too. KU really ought to have him as their #1 target in 2020, even ahead of RJ Hampton.

I would assume he is. Gonna be a battle to get him.

As long as the FBI probe doesn't reach KU, I fully expect Bill to start bringing in monster classes from here on out. Next seasons is just a taste imo. If the FBI probe doesn't reach us, it means we can recruit without both hands tied behind our backs finally and we can quit losing out on heavy KU leans.

This team with Sexton? a couple less losses. This team with Ayton? surefire top 3. This team with Ayton and Sexton? FUHGETABOUTIT.

But alas, it looks as if we didn't cheat and therefore are watching two players perform at high levels in different uniforms. This season, more than any other season I can remember, will be the "what could have been" season.

Anyways, I think Bill will keep Dante "in state." It'll be a fight, but I think Bill has too good of a resume with African bigs to miss on this fella. Get him on the phone with JoJo and I think we can seal the deal.

@Kcmatt7 All he has to do is look at Doke's development here. Doke had zero skills just about when he came in.

Not counting Dante KU could have the most Kansas/KC area players we have seen on the roster in a long time in the coming years.

Agbaji is already signed up. Harvey and JRE top 2019 targets and perceived heavy leans. 2020 Ty Berry and KT Raimey both look like KU level players to me.

@teebee10 knows what's up. Ty is a stud and I hope KU offers soon.

@BShark Wouldn't that be something special? A group of kids with love for KU... Man that would be amazing. If that group had any success they would probably go down as one of the most loved KU team of all-time. Love local guys.

@BShark What about Malik Hall?

Kcmatt7 said:

@BShark What about Malik Hall?

He's originally from Cali and also spent a ton of time in Illinois. This is his first year in KS. He would be a good get but not what I would call a KS kid.

@BShark Johnathan Jackson a guy?

Seems like a 4 year project with upside too.

@Kcmatt7 Gotta think he ends up at UNC if they want him.

@Kcmatt7 , if Sexton were at KU, what position? Isn’t he PG at Alabama?

@Gorilla72 Starting PG. Graham would be in the same role he was playing with Frank.

@BShark, that’s what I thought. However, isn’t Graham’s best shot at the pro level as a PG, not shooting guard?

Definitely. Graham isn't big enough to be a 2G in the league.

@Gorilla72 I think playing here would have been good for Sexton too. Allowing him to not only learn how to run an offense from a guy like graham, but playing next to Graham would also teach him how to play off of the ball better as well. I think those two would have helped each other a lot.

We’d be the best team out there by far if we had those two. Not sure if we’d go undefeated because that’s so difficult, but we wouldn’t have more than 1-2 losses.

@BeddieKU23 So much for "Big Jacobs" as Markese calls him to ILL. Committed to SLU about two hours ago. CB was almost 100% ILL of course...

BShark said:

@BeddieKU23 So much for "Big Jacobs" as Markese calls him to ILL. Committed to SLU about two hours ago. CB was almost 100% ILL of course...

Thanks! Good choice for the older Jacobs. I think Underwood has a short leash at Illinois and its just not a program you want to be apart of right now. He will likely have a nice career at SLU

Illinois has whiffed a lot in this class already.

BShark said:

Illinois has whiffed a lot in this class already.

Ayo was a big pickup but he was gifted to them. Underwood could be gone and Ayo could open back up?

Imagine if KU needed Ayo and pressed for him. THT wanted to go the Illinois but Chicago recruiting politics got in the way.

BShark said:

Imagine if KU needed Ayo and pressed for him. THT wanted to go the Illinois but Chicago recruiting politics got in the way.

I imagine Xavier might actually get him if he opened up. He seemed really interested in them first time around. Can't hurt to be aware of his situation if Underwood gets canned. I imagine if KU happens to have a scholarship and he's available we'd inquire

Ochai will be in the house again tonight.

Arizona just lost their last 2018 commitment PG Brandon Williams. He actually attended late night in 2016 but I doubt KU gets involved. Ainnnnn't no seats.

@BShark worth talking it through with the Dotson’s and Grimes’. We can always make room for great players.

@Kcmatt7 He might still end up at AZ. He was clearly keeping that option open in his announcement. Kid loves AZ, probably depends on how things shake out.

@Kcmatt7 I believe you are a big fan of Romeo Langford right? Doesn't mean a ton but a guy on the shiver (regular poster) posted that an Indiana guy told him that the word is Romeo is heavily favoring picking Kansas at this point.

@BShark I think Romeo is what this team is missing to win the N.C. next season... I think he’s favoring KU too. All depends on what Self has said about who is coming back and what not. If we land him, reminds me of the Duke team with Okafor, Jones and Winslow. But better.

@Kcmatt7 Who is the Winslow/JJ/MKG type that plays for KU next year? Langford would be a fantastic addition for sure though. We'd be looking at 3 very likely NBA players (Langford, Grimes, Dedric) and 3 fringe guys (Silvio, Dotson, Doke) as well that will for sure play elsewhere if they don't make the NBA. That's not even mentioning the depth of very solid college players on the roster as well. That's a lot for Self to work with, even if most of the top talent is young.

@JayHawkFanToo I think his job is to be a leader and mentor

People are sleeping on Marcus Garrett next season. Look for him to be the 6th man and designated stopper on any and all perimeter guys. Plus another summer with Hudy and the coaches on his shot. He’s going to be a beast.

@FarmerJayhawk You and I are in the same frame of mind, but I think he could start.

@mayjay absolutely. If Vick and Newman leave and we miss on Romeo, he’ll start at the 3. It actually wouldn’t surprise me to see him start initially even if we have Romeo, a la Svi over Oubre in 2014.

@BShark Langford would fill that role. I understand he is a 2 guard basically. But his athleticism would allow him to be a versatile Guard/Wint combo. He should be able to rebound at a high level and defend other wings just fine. At 6’6 he should be able to fill that role just fine.

@BShark could he Dedric. Doke is going to have a monster year, probably not unlike Okafor for Duke that year. Dedric’s skill level allows him to do a bunch of things, almost all of which get buckets. Adding Langford would just make us silly.

I expect Garrett to play a lot next year.

@Kcmatt7 @FarmerJayhawk I think Langford would be and Dedric will be excellent for us. I just don't think either is in that junkyard dog do it all mold of those three (JJ/MKG/Justise). I do suppose Garrett could be a version of that. He won't score as much as either of those three, but he won't have to either.

Mark Smith will transfer from Illinois. I remember being intrigued by him out of hs (power guard) but he had a putrid year.

BShark said:

Mark Smith will transfer from Illinois. I remember being intrigued by him out of hs (power guard) but he had a putrid year.

Coach about to be gonzo too, Id imagine

Lots of smoke for Haggans and UNC.. Wondering if he ends up with them after the Felton fiasco

@BeddieKU23 It's one year even ILL isn't that crazy.

Looks like Marquette and Georgetown got involved too. I'd assume UNC can win out if they want him.

@BShark

Still no official word whether he's reclassifying just yet. We'll see, UNC would be a great place for him as they lose their only PG and the style of play fits him perfectly

@BShark

Only issue is he'd convince him to stay 4 years

BeddieKU23 said:

@BShark

Only issue is he'd convince him to stay 4 years

:joy:

Too true.

Langford's team won their sectional title avenging their only loss of the year.

Sellout crowd of 8100 to see him play.

Had a quiet 17 points, 11 coming at the line.

Langford held their leading scorer in the first matchup to two 2 points. His coach challenged him to stop him, think the message hit home. That's a quality I like to see. Self would be a coach that can press his buttons and get what he needs from him.

Underwood should’ve stayed at OSU. Oh well.

dylans said:

Underwood should’ve stayed at OSU. Oh well.

+1 Illinois is a trap. Delusional fan base.

S/O to @FarmerJayhawk who shared this on 247.

!alt text ↗

Romeo is a freak gaht dammmm.

Lol at KJ being listed at 6'7 and Kentucky people thinking he can play the 4.

Grimes has a bigger wingspan than Svi. Poor Svi, he really is a trex.

If McCormack is really 6'10'' barefoot that's ideal.

Former OAD KU Comparisons:

Josh Jackson
- Height: 6'8
- Wingspan: 6'9 and 3/4
- Standing Reach: 8'9 and 3/4
- Weight: 203 lbs

B-Mac:
- Height: 6'3.5
- Weight: 189 lbs
- Wingspan: 6'7.75
- Reach: 8'4.5

Xavier Henry
- Height: 6'5.5
- Weight: 210 lbs
- Wingspan: 6'11.25
- Standing Reach: 8'9

Wiggins:
- Height: 6'7
- Weight: 197 lbs
- Wingspan: 7'0
- Standing Reach: 8'11

Oubre:

• Height: 6'5.75
• Weight: 203 lbs
• Wingspan: 7'2.25
• Standing Reach: 9'0

@Kcmatt7

He is a big guard but no way is he a 4 type. He's not JJ

@Kcmatt7

Good stuff. Forgot how crazy Oubre's wingspan was. Certainly has helped him in the NBA

Wasn't one of the comps for Grimes Gary Harris?

6,4 with a 6'7 wingspan doesn't hurt him. Those kind of measurable's would be killer if he was a full-time PG

@BShark

In the All-Star games Romeo just looks bigger then he is. Definitely has the measurable's the NBA covets

Oubre was a freak and should have played a lot of stretch 4.

BeddieKU23 said:

@Kcmatt7

He is a big guard but no way is he a 4 type. He's not JJ

Or MKG, or Justise.

Which I mean, to be fair and to his credit he is a better shooter than any of them.