🏀 KuBuckets Archive

Yeah, I predict a ten point win. I am interested in two things, esp.: Will Bill Self limit Bragg's minutes purposefully, as jaybate posed, so as not to risk early season injury to a slender learner? And will Mickelson rise to the occasion as a primary contributor?

@jaybate-1.0 Law and Order? Hell, strapped to Self's right hip is one of those deadly shotgun pistols labeled THE JUDGE!

@drgnslayr "Drew just can't seem to maximize the play out of...." Gentle wording! I can't seem to move beyond seeing that hapless guy as the embodiment of a goofball kid stomping up a dust storm on the sidelines.

Well, this game is in Chicago, Jamari's town. Barring pregame injury he will start. And he will glean major minutes until or unless he plays his way to the bench. In my humble opinion, Mickelson has not yet quite showed up in practices with the intensity and determination to snatch the brass ring. Ergo, Lucas getting so many minutes to prove himself. If Mickelson turns the corner, decides that he is tough enough to shove Traylor and Lucas and Self aside, he can be the guy to usher us into league play at the five position. He's just not yet determined or tough enough to stomp on Bill Self's toes.

@jaybate-1.0 The almighty dollar often treads on little cat's feet....

@Texas-Hawk-10 Maybe that is how it went down: a Partnership agreement that NCAA would not backtrack on KU's wins if Cliff was yanked from play when the story broke. Damned interesting to me that the eligibility question appeared never to have been publicly declared. And yeah, I think I hear you, Best for the program (and that 11th consecutive league title) if the entire brouhaha quietly just goes away. At this moment, at least, I pledge to shush.

@JayHawkFanToo Yep, a very interesting read. I have never quite flushed the Cliff Alexander situation from my memory bank. Who actually benched Cliff Alexander? And, if his legal representative chooses to pursue a big money courtroom suit in Cliff's behalf, whose nuts are in the fire? A preseason perceived lottery pick drops completely out of the first and second round of a high dollar NBA Draft, benched just at the juncture when his college coach reports that, in practices, Cliff is beginning to "get it."
Hard for me to imagine Cliff Alexander and Co. just quietly fading away from Jayhawk and Partnership NCAA Basketball.

@ajvan Thanks lots for your suggestions and details of how-to. I am a computer retard...and use an old dumb flip phone. But I do have access to fairly fast internet service. So I will challenge grandson to set up the free VPN so that wife and I are not left in the dark on a few game nights. Fortunately, the large majority of our games are televised on the big networks this season. We have been purchasing ESPN Full Court to view the creampuff games. However, discovered at 4 pm yesterday that Full Court has gone belly up and is not available this season. Thanks again.

@jaybate-1.0 Eighty odd hours out and cursing the Zinger for my not yet being allowed to recline with popcorn and beer to view this year's edition of Mighty Jayhawks, I'd settle for 40% pyrite vs. SuperRat and Co. The Committee of Five will no doubt be in for a bruising. Gotta play a 25 second clock vs. the Spartans, keep their elbows at 160 degree extension, tongues to toes. Bill worked some good combinations out of his 10 man lineup last night, even gave Vick a taste of AFH excitement. Will probably need every ounce of that experience and energy to earn a Big W Tuesday night. ROCK CHALK!

@drgnslayr And, of course, a sophomore Carlton Bragg most probably could have found playing time on that '08 squad. I hope it works out for that kid to stay for a second year. If we should reach the Championship game with Carlton playing vital minutes, we might not see him again after April.

@jaybate-1.0 I presume that you mean MIKE Anderson?

@jaybate-1.0 Man O Man, talk about a merciless downer! This thread deflated at least 1/3 of my 2015-16 Jayhawk Bubble. How the hell are you so capable so often of touching coup with such harsh realities????????

@jaybate-1.0 HA! Sad to say, I was born about 13 blocks from The Paige. Fates handed me a pre-adolescent escape, eventually to MO borders east and west, then to the Ozark backwoods. At the moment, I am kinda like Norm Stewart in reverse: don't care to spend any more time or dollars in Columbia, MO, than I might absolutely have to.

A very good thread. Yeah, Lumpy, step up again. Show us that campus with the splendid background.

@HighEliteMajor That recent Mizzou business is monumentally scary. University administrators, athletic directors and some coaches must be losing sleep over such potential public earthshakings. No surprise that a savvy anti-NCAA attorney appears to be latching on to the Threat of the Moment to further his causes. Ticket prices will probably escalate for the spring NCAA Tourney, to bolster funds for engagement in a bevy of oncoming lawsuits. As universities are in "partnership" with the governing body of university sports, when will such suits filter down to individual schools? For instance, it was never clear to me precisely what would have happened to KU if it had continued to play Cliff Alexander. In late winter I jumped to the assumption that legal proceedings for Cliff might be an ongoing concern. Would KU have been sued alongside the governing body? In the public forum, it appeared that Bill Self and KU chose not to chance adverse NCAA action/reaction.

@wrwlumpy Once again, Lumpy, fine work!

For some time now I have suspected a second level to this Diallo eligibility situation: subsequent judgment by the Big 12, which did not hesitate to rule against Ben Mac and Traylor a few years ago. I am assuming that KU is appealing the NCAA's unannounced ruling in order to change wording, in order better to present a "partial qualifier" case to the league. Diallo's spectacular play in high school spring games might probably pitch him into 2016 lottery status whether he plays a collegiate game or not.
So, if KU should lose his services for this entire season a scholarship would likely be blown to the wind, as Cheick could hardly afford or even care to gamble his millions away for a 2016-17 season of NCAA Division 1 Basketball, even at an institution which cherishes his talent and has stood by him through his hell of high waters. The attorney for his guardian talks a fine talk, and, indeed, might eventually win a substantial monetary judgment against the Powers That Be. I'm not holding my breath that Cheick will ever play a game of Big 12 Basketball. But then, again, I won't be surprised if legal posturing turns this circus into our favor before Friday night.... (How's that for a forked tongue?!)

Well, now late in the day, I am sticking with Frank. But I dearly hope to see Hunter Mickelson bag a double double atop his 5 or 6 blocks.

@HighEliteMajor You know, when I offered my rebuttal, at least after posting it, I thought to myself, "Aha! HEM's not thinking about Big 12 titles; he's talking about the Tournament." I suppose that each of us is sealed into our own bubbles regarding annual Jayhawk success. Though I will openly confess that I was disgusted with the two Tourney losses you mentioned, esp. the Stanford loss. WSU was easier for me to handle, what with a limited Perry and Greene, no Cliff. And I am really high on Baker and VanFleet. As a side note, I coached under a very successful high school a.d. who promoted the winning of league titles, and who preached that anything beyond, in post season, was mere gravy. I have never been able to step much beyond such guidelines. I do wish that Bill Self's post season record were a bit more consistently rewarding; but I absolutely cherish those 11 conference championships. After this Division 1 leading consecutive 12th one, perhaps I can manage to focus more on NCAA Tournament play.

@HighEliteMajor HEM, you have presented some great stuff on this thread, esp. the LINKAGE and FLEXIBILITY diagnosis. Two items which I contest: football comparison and Roy Williams doing a better job with last year's team. Football vs. Basketball offense/defense=apples/oranges. Two different units of players in football; basically, same players on the court in hoops. You really think Roy could have better held off Hoiberg, Kruger and Huggy last season, esp. considering key injuries to Ellis and Greene, with Selden playing all year on 85% legs?

@JRyman Mason

@nuleafjhawk Man, I really enjoyed reading your list! I am an old guy, too. Some of these names bring back fine memories. (Just off the cuff, the one name I might add to your list would be Sherron Collins, at least from fairly recent rosters.)

@jaybate-1.0 Well, Self's determined lean on the defensive game is keeping KU in the annual ballpark. That's not the best of lures to snag many of the look-at me superstars...but for those like Selby, Diallo, Ben Mac and a few others who deeply test NCAA guidelines. Hell of a twist for a coach who, given the right talent, is unparalleled among current collegiate peers, including Coach K (in my humble opinion). Gotta hope that Self and family, as well as his topnotch staff, can handle the Shoe Co. stresses in full stride; grin at the frustrations which handicapped Jayhawk Basketball extends yearly to Nike superprograms.

If Bill Self should depart for the NBA sooner than later, I would say it is this OAD recruiting nightmare which would drive him from the collegiate game. And not just the RECRUITING of top level talent, but the COACHING of such soon-to-be-gone athletes. Self has perfected a system designed for incremental longterm player development; but is forced to bend that system almost to the breaking point by time and effort spent in luring, then hastily transfiguring sows' ears into silk purses. I think the guy is overpaid...but maybe not by much. He is balanced on a mighty high tightrope.

@nuleafjhawk I detct no "bad guy" behind your summation. Sad state of current collegiate basketball. What a bind for wizardly developmental coaches like Bill Self.

What? Wizards have played some 240 minutes of which Kelly has played ONE? What else can an NBA millionaire do with his hands if not allowed to touch a basketball?

Statmachine, if you really have established a trusting insider relationship with KU squad members or student assistants, I would advise you to tread very cautiously in exposing inside info. To wit, I think you have said enough about any current recruiting info. You seem to have gleaned potent stuff in past and current threads. Please keep it cool, and in no way jerk processes in negative directions. Don't give opposing programs fodder for heading off or undercutting Jayhawk maneuverings. BIll Self is a guy who at one time took away or shut down use of the cell phones of his complete squad in his early days of ascension to the throne. A current member of his staff no doubt remembers that decision quite clearly.

Here is a hypothetical thought: Bill Self hopes and contests that if Diallo is eventually cleared by the NCAA, the clearance reads differently from that of Ben Mac and Jamari, both of whom were, as I recall, axed by the league.

Diallo eligible or not, if Mick and Bragg stay healthy we are in very good shape, inside 15 feet. Hunter looks hungry and Carlton possesses talent to win Big 12 Frosh of Year honors. A month ago I viewed this squad as Elite 8 w/o Diallo, Final 4 with him. Now I tend to envision a title run with or without him. Huge factor: team health, esp. current top 6 players. (Clearance by NCAA might go up in smoke if Big 12 takes a firmer stance.)

@Statmachine Yeah, yeah, I know that I am premature in "calling out an 8 man rotation" at this stage. And yeah, I concur with you that SVI possesses boundless upside which should soon kick into 3rd gear. I probably shot off my early Nov. predictions a bit too soon. There are substantial minutes to be earned by Svi, Greene, Vick, Lucas, esp. if Diallo does not clear. Those 4 had best zero in on determination and maximum practice effort these next few weeks. I'm already sold on Mickelson and Rabb. Ellis, Mason, Graham and Selden look to be the sealed deal. Traylor's energy and effort, coupled with 5th year experience, will get him playing time unless tendencies toward injury dictate otherwise. At this stage, I would say that of the 4 maybes, Svi and Vick stand a better chance at minutes than Greene and Lucas. Greene will glean intermittent opportunity to shoot some 3s; Lucas, to fetch rebounds. (So, I suppose that my premature predictions hardly have been put to sleep....)

Ellis-Bragg-Mickelson/Mason-Selden-Graham. Right now those are the 6 stalwarts. We know that Traylor will play; and, if cleared, Diallo most likely will earn major minutes. There are Self's eight players. Other aspirants had best step up sooner than later if they hope to earn court time. When Selden is healthy he appears to be a rock. When seriously "nicked up" his game turns to loose sand. His superior play in S. Korea was no fluke. To his own apparent detriment, Greene is a stubborn guy who chose the wrong program. Svi, a very real puzzle. Vick has the speed to emerge. Gotta be an unusual torment to Bill Self, spending administrative hours which disrupt his coaching on game day.

Either Greene beats out Svi for significant reserve minutes or he pops off the bench occasionally for a 7-12 minute junior outing.
Gotta hope he doesn't morph into a distracting discontent. That said, I still envision his saving a pair of close contests with his lethal long ball this season. But Bill Self has declared that 12 members of this squad will not play. Maybe not 10! Bound to be a tuff numbers crunch.

@DanR Greene can't redshirt now that he has played. Only freshmen can play in exhibition games, then opt for red shirt.

The score??????????

No one is picking Greene? Must be the new singlet, that rose tinted shirt....

@ralster "Suffice it to say, that Bill Self is a tremendous 'net positive' for KU." Man, no truer words could be spoken about the current state of KU Hoops. Very well written!

@JRyman Please keep in mind, these buckets postings are something in the way of a competitive game among posters...quite different, altho tangential to KU Basketball under the realm of Bill Self. Yeah, we sometimes type opinions which are a bit cheeky or downright overly critical. IMO, just human nature. Sometimes the most critical and dominantly opinionated of contributors also offer the most rational facts and food for thought. I enjoy the push and shove on this site. Would not want my son to read buckets commentary if he were playing for Bill Self. I feel that the site was designed for, and is supported by, an array of fans, some of whom are casual contributors, others who know a great deal about the collegiate game. I am well aware that I occasionally ruffle feathers on this site, often with intense but sometimes mirthful intention. Actually, this response to your posting here is designed just to present a serious and perhaps unique point of view. I do admire your grit and do concur with the spirit of your criticisms...at least, partially. The most critical of us probably needs an occasional kick in the groin to keep our commentary under control. Oops! Sorry, ladies. A kick in the fanny?

Well, if any coach in America knows how to employ non-OAD players, it is Bill Self. He might yet deserve skepticism regarding the use and development of OADers, but when it comes to dependable experienced talent he seems to maneuver that talent to squeeze forth maximum tallies in the W column. I've gotta think that Hunter Mick's head was just not into earnest determination to adjust to SelfBall until his stellar energy popped forth in the WUGS. Until or if fifth year senior JamTray plays himself off the court he is bound to receive serious minutes this season...with or without an eligible Cheick Diallo. From what I saw in viewing the South Korea showcase, Hunter deserves serious consideration. But as I recall, Jamari was playing injured. Each of them bears at least a potential touch of Kevin Young energy and hustle. If not "nicked up," both will see plenty of minutes this season, esp. before league play. Right now, Luke appears to be the odd man out unless the others fail to post rebounding numbers. AND THEN THERE IS BRAGG! How will Bill Self ever condense this squad into a March or April 8 or 9 man lineup, esp. if Diallo eventually becomes available (and if Greene does not opt for a red shirt)?

@jaybate-1.0 Asymmetric CONSPIRACIES at work?

@VailHawk Or perhaps KU Compliance is dragging its feet?

Cheick also, as any freshman, could really use a solid year of building his body with the help of Andrea Hudy and Co. Two years with her assistance could mold that fledgling bird into an NBA eagle. In retrospect, Joel Embiid might have escaped a pair of back and foot injuries if his body had spent a second year in the Hudy program (although, as he was eligible from the getgo, those injuries would probably have occurred anyway). For a body and appetite like Embiid's, sitting out with a red shirt for a season at KU might have paid huge personal dividends. He might not have reaped professional millions so quickly, but in the long run his career and bank account probably would have benefited significantly. My point is, Cheick, even if eventually cleared to play this season, might give serious thought to spending a second year in Lawrence. A damn shame that the lure of NBA millions might not allow for his development at the collegiate level. (HA! I overuse the word MIGHT.)

@jaybate-1.0 Regarding asymmetric legalities, Bill Self might just be on top of his game in the matter of Diallo's clearance. In essence, he has recruited a topflight recruit who might fit better into his 2016-17 squad than his current team. Why not hold off a spell in filing necessary NCAA paperwork until he watches Diallo adjust to the college game to determine if this is the best season to usher Cheick into the midst of experienced Ellis/Mickelson/Lucas/Traylor. We know that the Bill Self SYSTEM customarily leans upon 2 steady factors: experienced players + a rotation of 8 primary players, max. This current experienced squad portends a definite stretching of that rotation, even without Diallo. But a year from now, after departures of Ellis, Mickelson, Traylor...O MY! Of course, much depends upon the disposition of Cheick Diallo and his inclinations toward gaining valuable experience while showcasing development of his game. And, of course, the June NBA draft which might slam a meat cleaver into the overall procedure.

Just as in the Cliff Alexander situation, there is probably more to this Diallo dilemma than Bill Self or any other Powers What Be will ever reveal to the frantic fandom. Just another waiting game. In my not too humble opinion, Diallo himself might be better off sitting out this season (IF ALLOWED TO PRACTICE), then passing up the 2016 NBA draft to play as a Jayhawk superstar from the getgo in 2016-17. Even Tyler Self recently indicated that Cheick really has lots to learn about the game. Of course, if the NBA lures him into the 2016 June draft as a definite top 7 or 8 lottery pick, then we most likely would never see his Kansas scholarship pay collegiate dividends for the program or the hungry fan base. His late signing sounds more and more like a program gamble. At this stage I tend to reflect on the wisdom of HEM: THINK MICKELSON!

@jaybate-1.0 That Lexington bound line of dump trucks makes me wanna holler, too. With a bloody deep belch and a beller.

@drgnslayr "KC is Big 12 country." Right on, slayr! My home state university really messed its pants with Big 12 abandonment. A sour apples sellout for pride and the almighty dollar. Mizzou appears to have progressively killed its hoops program, and now is finding trouble in competing with the likes of Kentucky on the gridiron. Eastern Missouri might yet offer strong support, but I don't hear much Tiger hoopla on the western borders. All those splendid years of Kansas City/Big 8/Big 12 basketball and indoor track and field championships flushed down the drain by an indifferent willy-nilly Tiger sports administration and fan base.

@jaybate-1.0 Speaking of Madonna and your "street angel Fluevogs," word is that Sir Charles B. inherited a pair of "courtworthy Fluevogs" from another colorful former NBA all-star who was mentored by Madonna. Now Barkley can, without dropping pounds or ounces, dunk with the likes of Manute Bol. Winna winna, chicken dinna!

No 2/three ways about it, if Mason or Graham goes down to injury, Self will run Hunter Mick at the 2. Or, rather, make that 2/five ways about it. (Supra-overthinking, outside the box.)

Just imagine Hunter Mick in a pair of those shoes!

If Diallo eventually receives NCAA clearance as a "Partial Qualifier," then the Big 12 just might lay down the hammer, as happened with McLemore and Traylor. Or not. Perhaps some of this paperwork holdup at KU could be purposeful, all the while allowing Diallo to practice now, even though the forecast portends that he might have to sit out a semester or a full season? If he were declared ineligible today (or last week) he might not get to practice now or for a certain time period. Crafty program decision?

@jaybate-1.0 Surely not the Kochs....