Trae with 16 of Oklahoma's 27 points in the first half.
Translation, he will have 50 against KU
BeddieKU23
31745 posts
wrwlumpy said:
KU is an 11 point favorite.
that's crazy
BShark said:
Kentucky is trash. Wow.
Syracuse headed to OT with a crappy Georgetown team...
EVEN OUR WINS SUCK. ERMAGERD
Kentucky will win though
Cuse isn't supposed to be any good.
I get it, we don't have a really legitimate win through 9 games.
jaybate 1.0 said:
Terrific game day take in the face of two straight stink up the field house games.
Gotta think we will go get a W in corn town, but I understand your doubts
I hope so. Road woe's can make things worse. I think we are in a too close for comfort game. At AF I could see this an easy win in front of a friendly crowd. On the road we have no idea how these guys will respond
HighEliteMajor said:
I take it everyone saw that Gonzaga destroyed Washington.?
Don't worry it wasn't as close as the score indicates
Nice optimism. I hope this is a classic kick-in-the-butt week that has re-charged some of these guys. I can imagine Self has their attention after a home loss. Normally 1 loss gets that focus so I'm still guarding my optimism with our current roster issues. Newman banged up, Cunliffe expectedly will be rusty? Defensive issues that look more of a long range fix then a quick fix. I'm certainly not trying to be negative, just voicing an opinion as I see it currently. We'll see what happens
I think he'll primarily be a wing or fill that 4th guard role as long as we are rolling the 4-1 look.
Wiseman has few challenges in HS. There's a good chance he ends up the #1 kid in his class.
At 6'6 and athletic I'm sure Cunliffe will be forced to guard the "4" position when he's in the game if he's subbing for Vick.
It would be interesting to see him on the floor at the same time as Vick to see what that added athletic ability could do to the lineup. I'm sure our coach has a pretty good read of his current abilities but it will be very interesting to see if he's a bit different when he's actually out there. I can imagine Sam wants to please his coach and do well for himself having sat the past year. Now we just have to see him do it instead of talking about it
Blown said:
Maybe it was good fortune that Billy hit the curb. Just think if all these issues were somehow brought to light after a season; potentially resulted in vacated wins.
Agree with that. I'm sure that is the reason he's sat through the first 9 games. No one player is above the integrity of the program
BShark said:
I'm going to summarize our chances with Wiseman in one word: SWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSH.
But maaaaaybeee we get one of his free visits???
Another week of deciphering Self's comments in regards to Preston and Silvio will certainly leave your brain hurting. He can make paragraphs about saying absolutely nothing a work of art. Gotta hand it to him, he knows how to play the game.
Maybe we hear some good news regarding Silvio today. Let's hope he ate his Wheaties the morning of the test. We need to some good news.
So Self seems confident Newman plays. We have Cunliffe finally eligible to play.
Regarding Newman, does he start? How effective is he really going to be? 75, 85%? Will he miss a majority of his shot attempts? Or will he bounce right back like nothing happened. I don't know, Concussions in Basketball are certainly not a common injury it seems and of course every Concussion with each individual can be different. Hoping for the best I guess
Regarding Cunliffe, we have more guard depth to cut some of the minutes our starters have been playing. Self mentioned that this week that 5-10 minutes from Sam could be key in keeping guys fresh. Self downplayed any immediate impact Sam might have. Some of that could simply be on Bill as it seems his minutes will be in that 5-10 range unless he's playing well. I'm actually hoping Sam comes out swinging right off the bat. We could certainly use his athleticism out there and if he can make shots when open its more then we are currently getting from Marcus.
The team is in a funk, who knows exactly why but we've certainly been hit with hay-makers and this group needs to find a way to overcome them. Washington was a Self Era Top 10 bad loss. ASU while good should not have beaten KU at home. I tip my cap to them for making shots and exposing a porous defensive effort.
So we have our first road test in Nebraska. Nebraska already has upset Minnesota at home, its likely to be a full house given its KU and its a night game giving it that "Super Bowl" effect for them. Nebraska has also been blown out by similar caliber teams to KU in Michigan St by 29 recently and 10 by Creighton. Nebraska isn't very good but they don't need to be, they are at home and we are on the road.
We should "handle business" but I admit I'm not confident given what's happened recently. It's hard to think the defense will show up on the road so the key to the game for me is foul trouble. The almighty whistle on the road can be extremely aggravating. If Doke can make it to the 1st TV timeout without fouling that would be a miracle. I think every game recently that has been the case. I look for Devonte to assert himself more feeling the pressure of the last 2 games. This will be a close game, I certainly hope we prevail.
What's everyone thinking for this game?
Wiseman is being heavily pursued by Kentucky. KU should get a visit too hopefully if he makes it that far.
This far out 2020 looks very interesting. And from the looks of it KU might have some "in's" without having to do to much.
Definitely wanted Ballock. Looks like he found a good situation though
Has good size. Will be interesting to see if he's a priority
I mentioned that to someone that the constant switching made it seem like lazy defense. We got caught flat footed against quick guards who figured out how to attack the defense. Who knows if the alternative fighting through screens and sticking with their man would have made a difference but I would like to see something change because what we got isn't working.
Anyone else notice there are times Graham gets switched on the big in the lane? If a team starts recognizing that ridiculous switch we will pay for it. I really don't know what we are trying to accomplish with some of the switches
Crimsonorblue22 said:
@BeddieKU23 I read Young takes over 60% of OU's shots.
Crazy but given the rest of the team I bet Lon wants him taking shots over some of his other guys
Yeah this doesn't look like a situation where KU is at fault in any shape or form. We are the one's that raised the flags and then reported the info to the NCAA. Only if what they reported was tied to the program in some way would that become an issue. With everything out there this seems to be Billy's issue and nothing else
In the end Sexton like Trae Young choose to stay close to home and go to a school that allowed them all the freedom they wanted. The more time has passed the more Ben Simmons & Fultz seem to be situations these kids chose to follow. Both could have ended up at KU or other big time programs and instead choose places they knew would give them the ability to put up shots and control the ball the majority of the time. Both kids have seen their stock go up or stay the same so right now it looks like good decisions on their end
HighEliteMajor said:
Cunliffe had a 10.8 PER over his 10 games. Let that sink in. Small sample, a year ago.
Always exciting to see a new player in game action. Looking forward to it.
Think any of it was a product of being on a bad team? He had a lot of hype pressure coming in- being the highest rated recruit to sign with ASU since of all people James Harden. His numbers were not good, just looking for reason to be optimistic with the year off.
I actually like this idea. I wonder if its even a realistic option given we don't have another ball handler at this point. I thought Garrett would get some run at PG given his shooting struggles but he seems to be the wing sub right now. If Cunliffe can find a way into any role we need it badly
KUSTEVE said:
@BeddieKU23 He is so much more athletic than Svi, it's ridiculous. I'm not saying he is a better bb player, but when Svi's shot isn't falling, then I think he becomes a liability, at least on the defensive end.
Definitely, I think we could say the same thing about most of the team the past 2 games. If they are not making shots they have struggled to find other ways to help out. That seems to be part of the mentality that Self is trying to drive into his guys. They have to enjoy the dirty part of the game instead of being so focused on the finese, making 3's, having shots fuel momentum. This team has to find a common ground in stopping guys from what they want to do.
Maybe what we thought we had in team speed isn't good enough. Washington and ASU have certainly cast doubt in our guys quickness abilities. I do think some of it is attributed to guys playing too many minutes. Vick & Graham have sat a total of 5 minutes in the past 3 games. I suppose that could be beneficial to them later in the year but its clear we need more balancing of the minutes. Cunliffe hopefully helps that as long as Newman comes back relatively soon. Just adding 1 post player could have a huge affect on minutes and therefore guys energy in games etc. This two game slump (3 if we count Cuse) could all be the consequence of having 7 guys and tired legs
drgnslayr said:
Yeah... Young is having an excellent senior year!
Oh... uh... wait a minute... freshman year!
Man, that kid can play! I could see OU trashing us big if we don't get our snit together.
It's his only year as he's creeping up the NBA boards into the lottery discussion
:boom:
He definitely gives us an athletic element that has become apparent we are missing outside of Vick. Whatever he can do to help this team we'll take it. He's another guy that could be forced into the 4 spot as we continue to wait on the Billy & Silvio show
Yeah ASU was a completely different team last season when he played for them. He was the highest rated recruit to land at ASU since James Harden. His exit from ASU reportedly was good for both sides so take that for what its worth and that was after 10 games. A year later we'll see what Sam can provide to KU. Would be a heck of an intro if he made a good impression Saturday
http://www2.kusports.com/news/2017/dec/12/tom-keegan-sam-cunliffe-realizes-year-long-wait-ma/ ↗
What do we take from it?
Next to Vick he's the best athlete on the team that much is clear. Sounds confident in himself in his defense playing on the scout team for the past year. We'll see how that translates to games. His rebounding from ASU should translate, over 4 a game I believe. Can he be a 40% 3pt shooter in what will likely be limited attempts or is he volume type guy? Will he be someone who can get to the basket utilizing his athletic ability?
Given what we know about him I'm optimistic until proven otherwise he can help. Another guard/wing to take some of the burden off our starters who are playing way too many minutes. Looks like he's going to be needed right away this weekend with Newman's status unknown..
Season outlook? 5 pts 2 boards, 40% 3's.. Seems like level expectations right? We need bench production and if he can make some plays its going to help this team in the long run. Outside of a big man Sam could actually be the most important addition to the team
BShark said:
I think it's part of the plan for Malik to go. Would he be okay with coming off the bench? Might be really difficult for him. I expect him to go and not get drafted.
That's sad, I hope he reconsiders if his play continues as it is.
I thought Newman was a shoe-in to leave after the year. Things do change though. There was popular talk Svi & Graham were gone last season at this time. Unless something changes boy Malik would be making a mistake leaving.
A week and a half ago this should have been a easy road game. Nebraska is not a good team.
Then they beat Minnesota who was ranked, sandwiched between a 29pt drubbing to Michigan St & decent effort against Creighton in a 10 pt defeat.
Then KU had one of the worst losses in the Self era at the Sprint Center.
Then KU went and lost at home and just looked god awful other then the first 4 minutes.
So with this being an 8pm tip on the road this is Nebraska's one shining moment of the season.
We'll play like crap as we have been especially if Newman is out with the Concussion. Not looking good
JayHawkFanToo said:
I agree. If a 2-star prospect from a small school that still plays 8-man iron man football in the middle of nowhere doesn’t know all the rules, I could maybe understand, but a top prospect that went to an elite prep basketball school, Oak Hill Academy where the emphasis is getting top prospects to elite schools, just defies logic and by extension implies willingness by him and his family to ignore the rules; no other explanation makes sense. AAU coaches, agents and boosters know this is not allowed and could not do it without the individual and family tacit approval. Why anyone would risk so much for so little escapes me.
Bingo!
To some that paid attention to the Preston eligibility situation at Oak Hill- Billy even getting eligible without a ton of attention was defying logic in itself. It's ironic that he ended up Academically ok but is now ineligible from the school to play because of off-the-court issues
HighEliteMajor said:
They can shoe horn anyone in. How many players do you ever hear of anymore being academically ineligible? Getting in early sounds like it may be different.
The would be starter for West Virginia is one of those cases -Esa Ahmad but agree, we have seen less of the AI cases lately
I agree with your entire post.
What do we make of Self's comments about this situation saying it's unlike any he's dealt with in the past.
We've had some head scratchers in the past so that at least opens the possibility that this situation is unique and not clear-cut as we may seem?.
Is that all just deflection on Self's part?
Is there merit to what's he saying? Is there any possible reason Preston would be innocent here as some quote on quote "insiders" have posted? Did KU compliance in response to the FBI/NCAA situation take this a few too many steps in order to keep the wheel clean on the program? Would Preston have even sat if the FBI hadn't come knockin' on doors.
The time its taken to clear this situation just screams something is not right here.
If he's found innocent, robbed of playing games because of some cautionary tale do we get mad- or demand answers, demand change? I really haven't thought of that side of this.
Thoughts are welcome.
If any of the rumors are true I'm severely questioning the intellect of the Preston family
If Malik were to stick around another season there would be no doubt he starts right? 3rd year in the program and a bunch of upperclassmen leaving. Seems he'd be in line for a leadership role especially mentoring the young guys.
Of course much of what I stated is what I've seen so far of Malik. If he turns it around then we benefit and more importantly for him he likely benefits. We'll see how it plays out. So far I'm fairly disappointed and I had lower expectations of him to begin with.
JayHawkFanToo said:
If you read the article I cited, he went back to football because he was told it had a better future and not because he was not good at basketball. Basketball offers from 2 major programs would certainly validate that premise.
I am not saying that he will start at KU but he could certainly contribute valuable minutes.
I did read the article, we just disagree about his role here.
JayHawkFanToo said:
Didn't a couple of high profile recruits decommitted recently?
Yeah Jason did, he was a 5 star prospect according to rivals. Not nearly as high on other sites.
Their remaining top prospects are also getting serious attention from bigger schools
Nobody mentioning that Jason WR de-committing.. That was a long time coming
Has a concussion. Wonder if he plays Saturday.
Good thing Sam is eligible. It would be nice to have 8 guys to play going into Saturday nights game. It's Nebraska's Super Bowl
I'll be shocked if Lightfoot is in the rotation next season with what we should have at the 4 next season. The Lawson's are so much better then Mitch is currently. This would be the perfect scenario to redshirt him.
Just having the 5- Doke, Dave, D Lawson, KJ Lawson & De Sousa is a lot of mouths to feed. Some serious size and skill among those 5 guys.
JayHawkFanToo said:
He played JuCo basketball last season before transferring to KU to play football. While he was playing basketball he got offers from Washington State and Oregon State but thought his future was in football.
I understand he played JuCo ball. Then he went right back to Football. I'm glad he's here to help with practices and I hope that's the extent of his addition. If he's making his way onto the court in a situation other then an end of game blowout we have serious issues. That's the scenario I'm hoping is avoided.
With they way Newman has played to date I'm not sure you want him back. I think we want the fresh slate to play the young guys and not have someone standing in their way. Newman so far is either just overrated or not playing to his abilities. Right now that would seem to be a mix of both.
Vick is the more important player. He's taken a step forward in his role this season and if he's back next season we have that go-to guy.
I think Langford's decision is based more on Vick but maybe if Newman leaves he still see's the opportunity here with a guard leaving. We could certainly trot out some exciting lineup combo's if Langford joins a Vick, Grimes, Dotson, Moore, Garrett, Cunliffe perimeter
JayHawkFanToo said:
Sosinski is not that far removed from basketball and apparently he had offers from major programs ↗ before deciding to play football at KU.
I disagree to some extent. It doesn't seem like basketball has ever been his full time gig at any point in the past few years. Pick it up here and there. Great. If he's more then a practice body Self has said it perfectly.
"This is no disrespect to James," Self said Thursday during his regularly scheduled news conference. "But if he's a guy that we have to rely on to help us, that doesn't seem good"
You know things are bad when we are trying to rationalize the impact that a walk-on football player could have when -he hasn't played basketball in who knows how long- and is joining the team after 7 games into the season.
JayHawkFanToo said:
Arizona State also plays small ball with primarily a 6 player rotation and they do not have tired legs.
Your right ASU has had little depth to use as well. Doesn't mean KU isn't hitting a wall already. Vick & Graham are playing almost 35 minutes a game. Over the last 3 games those two have sat 5 minutes together. Hard to expect these guys to be machines for near 40 minutes and produce on both ends. We are bleeding everywhere for help
I was wondering if our defensive switching was actually playing against us yesterday. We tended to switch any screen around the perimeter. I was wondering if this group shouldn't be switching and should be fighting over screens instead. ASU made shots, some from Wichita but they were mostly all unguarded shots, no hands in the face, no hard close with a hand in the face. I've seen a lot of comments about ASU being lucky to make some shots. I would disagree and point to any of their prior wins. They shoot freely whenever.
jayballer54 said:
@BeddieKU23 But, as the leader of the team - -Who starts that offense we run - -your point guard. - -Who is our point guard? - -the one that is suppose to be leading the team? - He is the one who runs this - -or is suppose to run the offense - -if were running the offense away from him not sure it's the others - I've noticed many times Devonte Standing I dunno - The whole system is out of kilter right now. - - ROCK CHALK ALL DAY LONG BABY
I think your basically saying the same thing I mentioned. The offense is out of whack compared to our current level to perform it with what we have. Graham brings the ball down the court passes it and often doesn't get it back. The way we are running offense right now seems too dependent on someone making an individual play. I would like to see the offense tailored more to Graham initiating plays off ball screen action, that way our PG is more involved in the output of the play. Whether he's shooting or passing I think DG needs more usage to get the most out of this team. And that goes for him shooting the ball. We know he's not Frank, nobody is asking him to be him. I do however think that if we start running more plays through his hands, we could see more consistent results.
Kcmatt7 said:
@BeddieKU23 DG has to start being able to take it to the hole and finish though. Right now, nobody is collapsing on us and challenging us to finish layups 1 on 1. We aren't making opponents pay for doing that so we can't collapse a defense and reopen the 3 point game.
I agree it starts with him. He needs to understand that he sets the tone for this team. I thought we'd be seeing progression instead of regression in that department from him. Of course everyone is still learning how to play their role with this team. This is right around the time that Self gets more time to work on things.
How many times have we been in a situation where the shock clock is running low? I would say I haven't noticed that being a regular thing where Devonte needs to demand the ball. He certainly needs to do a much better job at taking control of things but it seems we are running a lot of offense away from him.
Where the issue I'm seeing is in the base offense we seem obsessed with running right now. That dribble drive weave action that is fooling nobody and is doing nothing other then wandering the perimeter. It's not making defenders turn their hips and foul someone, its not forcing a help defender off their man, at least from what I'm seeing. The ball is sticking and if the result isn't a made basket it just feels like unorganized chaos right now.
We'll see what the response is from this past week. Cunliffe is eligible so we finally have some more guard depth to go to.