UM loses a recruit (Paul Williams from Renaissance) to Dayton.
The Dayton team coached by former MSU assistant Brian Gregory.

From my understanding, UM hasn't had an interest in Williams in a long time, if ever. I'm not even positive they ever offered. Not saying they certainly would have gotten him had they offered, but it's not like he was a recruit I was geeked about that chose somewhere else.

Good, fuck UM.

quoted for posterity

By the way, according to my latest reading from a certain UM recruiting publication, the emerging targets UM is interested in for 2008 are:
Devoe Joseph - 4 star SG
Mike Shanahan - not listed by scout
Luke Fabrizius - 3 star SF
Matt Roth - 2 star SG
Ryne Smith - 1 star PG
Jordan Cyphers - 2 star SG
Jared Swopshire - 4 star SF
Stuart Douglass - not listed by scout

I'm sure that's a very inspiring list for UM fans. Yuck. Adding Joseph and Swopshire sounds like it would be ok, but that's hardly likely to happen. We'll probably end up with the two guys not yet listed.

From my understanding, UM hasn't had an interest in Williams in a long time, if ever. I'm not even positive they ever offered. Not saying they certainly would have gotten him had they offered, but it's not like he was a recruit I was geeked about that chose somewhere else.
Williams was offered by Cincinnati, Dayton and UM. The problem is UM came on too late and they suck.

According to scout, Dayton was the only one in that bunch that actually offered. Sounds like we have differing info. Here's my source:
http://michigan.scout.com/a.z?s=162&p=8&c=1&nid=1825899

Here's a quote from an article that is extremely non-specific and includes MSU in the same breath, and I'm sure State fans will quickly point out he never had an offer from them.

Paul Williams, a high-major, six-foot-three wing from Detroit Renaissance High School gave a verbal commitment to play for Brian Gregory at the University of Dayton. Williams chose the Dayton Flyers over offers and interest from a majority of college basketball teams including Michigan State, Michigan, Cincinnati, Illinois, Florida, Tennessee, and Syracuse.
http://dayton.scout.com/2/663839.html
Sounds like a quote designed to make a kid sound like he had offers, when in reality most of those programs just showed slight interest at some point.

From my understanding, UM hasn't had an interest in Williams in a long time, if ever. I'm not even positive they ever offered. Not saying they certainly would have gotten him had they offered, but it's not like he was a recruit I was geeked about that chose somewhere else.

I feel ya Jethro. He's no Ben Cronin;)

Kidding aside, if I was a M fan, I'd be getting increasingly worried about the 2008 class. The number of top 100 recruits that're left is decreasing by about 10 every two weeks. Beilein is a great coach, don't get me wrong...but he's not going to be able to win in the Big Ten with WAC level recruits.

Trust me, I'm not content by any means. I know the guy can coach the crap out of 3 star players, but when the school down the road is bring in the talent they are, this is troubling.

You'd think all of us Spartans and Wolverines would get along fantastically. Seems like we'd all be walking side by side. There to celebrate our great programs together and console each other when Spartan Football and Wolverine Basketball are currently on board.

Good, fuck UM.

Gayest post ever.

Gayest post ever.

I get Moodini riled up more with my two-three word posts than anything else. It was a half joking haha screw UM cuz I'm a State guy post. If I really meant something by it, I would've post more. The other half in the half joking was me being tired of some of the UMers ganging up on me lately so I posted it. Random post homeboy, chill.

If Coach B can win in the Big East with "wac" level recruits, he can win the in the Big 10. People who talk like Big Ten basketball is better than Big East basketball just needs to get out more and watch more games.

Not saying I do not want Coach B to get better recruits, because he cannot win NC with WAC level recruits, but to think he cannot compete in the Big 10 with them is nonsense.

The Big East is not better than the Big Ten Art and I couldn't watch more college basketball. I'm a freak when it comes to the amount I watch. However, I think they are pretty even. The Big Ten has one or two teams in the Top 5 in the nation year in and year out. They back that with one or two teams in the Final Four each year. I'm not saying the BT is better, just saying they are as good as the Big East.

The thing about the Big Ten though is that it is hands down the most physical conference in the country. You can play finesse ball in other conferences and win, but you can't do that in the BT. That is probably the biggest question with Beilein (other than his recruiting). Will his system work with tough physical teams?

I'm a Beilien fan for his inivative strategies. From a coaching standpoint, I'd like to see him have success and I think it is possible. However, he now coaches the hated rival so my rooting will probably curtail.

If Coach B can win in the Big East with "wac" level recruits, he can win the in the Big 10. People who talk like Big Ten basketball is better than Big East basketball just needs to get out more and watch more games.


He had ONE season in the Big East with an in-conference record better than 9-7..and he was over .500 in-conf in just 2 out of his 5 seasons at WV. He'll be able to "compete" in the Big Ten with WAC level reruits...but not even in a blue moon will he ever threaten to win the Big Ten and have legit Final Four aspirations with those kinds of players.

He lucked out with Manny Harris which is a nice start to his tenure with the mazenblue...he can thank Amaker for that one, but his own recruiting MUST improve if he intends to have consistent success at Michigan.

I think to be a successful basketball recruiter, you kindof need that cool swagger as a coach to lure kids in or you have to have crazy legendary status/reputation. I don't know that Beilein has either. It's going to be a tough hill to climb, although he has a golden opportunity with State locking up many out of state stars, many of the leftover stud talents in state will be there for persuation.

Much like Spartan fans have been pointing out in football, I think John needs a season to show his product on the hardwood before recruits really consider him. If he can do good things this year with the talent he has - far more talent than ANY team he has ever coached - then some kids will listen. Otherwise, they don't really care what he did with 3 star white kids at a different school.

Much like Spartan fans have been pointing out in football, I think John needs a season to show his product on the hardwood before recruits really consider him. If he can do good things this year with the talent he has - far more talent than ANY team he has ever coached - then some kids will listen. Otherwise, they don't really care what he did with 3 star white kids at a different school.

Not to put a damper on optimism but I think he is in for a painful year. I think Michigan is going to get man handled alot inside and lack of point guard play could be tough to watch. Damn it, there I go overselling M expectations again. ;) haha

I think the PG play will be better than it has been in years for UM. Reports are good about Jerrett Smith and Kelvin Grady.
I do think it will be tough inside, but Udoh is getting bigger and can disrupt a shot - even though a dozen flies in unison could still knock him over. Zach Gibson is a little beefy and can't possibly be as big a puss as Courtney Sims. DeShawn Sims will be interesting to watch as well. A year after the death that shook him, how is his game now?

I don't know about that pg play man, i remember jarrett smith getting shook as a crook at times last year when playing against good teams that pressured him. And I don't think Grady is all that good and being a freshman, that can be scary. I guess we'll see. Regardless, Beilein better get on that recruiting horse.

Grady is supposedly a stud defensively, has a good deep ball, and is quick as all get out. As for Jerrett - sure, he got shook. The whole freaking team got shook. Reports are that his conditioning has been strong this offseason. He's lighter but stronger. That certainly can't hurt. Experienced guys will still work him, but younger guys won't have a huge advantage.

Beilein is making some connections and taking his time. It's never a good thing when most of the best recruits are already committed, but the thing I'm saying is this guy has has success with less talented teams. If he can work his magic and have success WITH the talent, recruits in the 09 and 10 classes will have to notice. He'll have to make the most he can with teams until then, because the 08 well is pretty dry.

I've watched Grady. I'd say slightly better than average pg. Won't score much at all and might have problems with size.

I'll believe you if you've seen him play, but don't blame me for eating cornbread. I'm reading reports all the time about how much he and Manny are working out, shooting, running, etc. Apparently they're gym rats and I totally love that. If he's better than average and Coach can coach him up a bit, I'll take that. All he needs to be is the 4th best PG in the Big Ten to make me happy (and no, I don't expect that this year).

But again, Beilein has NEVER had a 4 star player. This year he has two, plus one that maybe would have been had it not been for an injury.

For a desperate fan, my only hope is that he can have success with that talent. I want him to have more success THIS YEAR than his predecessor had in ANY YEAR.

I hear that and I'd be optimistic just from the standpoint that you will actually have a X and O coach now. No more ridiculous 4 out one on one offense.

Deshawn Sims is a beast, but 1 wont beat five. He'll get swamped.

7' center from Battle Creek Central has verbaled to Utah. On the thin side but fairly mobile with touch he had been on the radar for U-M and MSU as well as Indiana. Not sure who among them came with definitive offers? Jim Boylan recruited him while assisting at MSU and when he got the head job in Mormonville he kept after Jason. Something tells me this, given his slight build, will be a better fit than the Big 10. He is in the class of '08.....Note that U-M and the Utes have just inked a home & home for hoop so that's kind of cool.

If I remember correctly, Grady`s dad is control freak and likes to stick his nose in where it doesn`t belong. I feel sorry for Bielein if he has to deal with an overly involved father for four years. I think Izzo got his fill with Marcus Taylor`s dad.

He certainly seemed pretty controlling when Tommy was fired and they were trying to decide whether Kelvin would honor his commit or not.

He certainly seemed pretty controlling when Tommy was fired and they were trying to decide whether Kelvin would honor his commit or not.
That is just the type of crap that can cause a lot of problems. If Senor Grady becomes a problem, Bielein should put his footdown and the university should back him up.

But again, Beilein has NEVER had a 4 star player. This year he has two, plus one that maybe would have been had it not been for an injury.

Kevin Pittsnoggle, Jabar Young, Tyler Relph and Da'Sean Butler were ALL 4 star players and were ALL coached by John Beilein.

http://scouthoops.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=9&c=8&toinid=387&yr=2002

http://westvirginia.rivals.com/commitlist.asp

I was basing my comment on rivals, which didn't give any of the players mentioned 4 stars, but did give Sims and Harris 4 stars.

By the way, if you go by scouts you have to call Jevohn Sheppard and Kendrick Price 4 stars - yikes!

scout is seriously terrible.

http://westvirginia.rivals.com/commitlist.asp

I was basing my comment on rivals, which didn't give any of the players mentioned 4 stars, but did give Sims and Harris 4 stars.

IMHO if you're going to throw a STAR-ranking-based statement out there for the class to divulge and potentially learn from (at least with regards to basketball)....use Scout. Ideally you should use RSCI when comparing recruits but they don't hand out "stars".

Rivals' basketball rankings have always been all over the place. There are just too many examples to give as proof. (**see Delvon Roe, see Noopy Crater) In most people's estimation (who closely follow the recruiting game) Rivals rankings are far more volatile, significantly more biased (based on whether a player has committed to a school or not) and in turn much less respected than Scout's version of things.

Now I don't know much about Price, but coming out of high school, Shepard was a highly regarded recruit. He played in the Hoops at the Summit game and was widely considered the top guard in the Canadian "high school" system in 2005. People just didn't take into consideration the fact that Canadian high school boys basketball is the equivalent of Class B GIRLS basketball here in the States.;)

Maurice Joseph was overranked for the same reason.

I don't know how accurate Scouts stars are, but I do know that they come with a lot of stories that are untrue. For example, they totally botched who they claimed State hired as a head coach, and I'm still mad about the article they put up claiming that Joe Crawford transfered to State.

I remember Tre ripping Scout because they had Noopy Crater as high as top 20 at one point, and he specifically said "I've seen him, he isn't that good, scout's ranking are consistantly horrible". Come to find out that after a few weeks go by Crater is falling down the rankings chart and into 3 star territory. Sure, Crater has started to come back with strong play in the summer, but I give Tre credit for calling out scout and Noopy early in the game.

I remember Tre ripping Scout because they had Noopy Crater as high as top 20 at one point, and he specifically said "I've seen him, he isn't that good, scout's ranking are consistantly horrible". Come to find out that after a few weeks go by Crater is falling down the rankings chart and into 3 star territory. Sure, Crater has started to come back with strong play in the summer, but I give Tre credit for calling out scout and Noopy early in the game.
Seems like I have seen on Rivals that Crater is now unranked. A slick pass here and there does not a great Point Guard make.

I remember Tre ripping Scout because they had Noopy Crater as high as top 20 at one point, and he specifically said "I've seen him, he isn't that good, scout's ranking are consistantly horrible". Come to find out that after a few weeks go by Crater is falling down the rankings chart and into 3 star territory. Sure, Crater has started to come back with strong play in the summer, but I give Tre credit for calling out scout and Noopy early in the game.

Thank ya, thank ya very much. I will say this though, Crater is much improved this summer. He's been putting in heavy work probably because of the slip in his ranking. Last time I saw him, he was MUCH better. I like his game more now, but he needs some serious weight added to his body.

He was waaaay overrated early and Scout was whack. But, after his improvement I'd have no problem bumping him back up. I'd take Kalin Lucas over him in a heartbeat though, and that's not bias speaking.

Is 2010 prospect Deshaun Thomas still commited to OSU. Scout says no Rivals says yes.

I think he is, but he'll change him mind 8 times until signing day. I think the next couple of years for the Spartans might seriously persuade him. Especially when he sees Allen and Summers high flying.

When is Strickland committing to State Jack? I'm ansy, hoping for it.

When is Strickland committing to State Jack? I'm ansy, hoping for it.

Don't know but I'm hearing that Dex will be attending Indy's Midnight Madness this year. That doesn't make me too happy, if true. From all reports though, I still like MSU's chances with the kid a lot. But who knows...these are afterall wishy washy keeds that we're dealing with.

Don't know but I'm hearing that Dex will be attending Indy's Midnight Madness this year. That doesn't make me too happy, if true. From all reports though, I still like MSU's chances with the kid a lot. But who knows...these are afterall wishy washy keeds that we're dealing with.

Freaking Indiana? Are you kidding me? That kids game does not match Indiana's style at all. I think he'll come to State.

He'd be crazy to go to Indiana, Kelvin Sampson recruits better than he coaches though.

Crater is going to prep school in VA. He says its not a grade issue. Bet he does a year of post-grad there as well.

Crater is going to prep school in VA. He says its not a grade issue. Bet he does a year of post-grad there as well.

I've actually got the inside scoop on that. Crater's class core requirements were not what they needed to be in order for him to get into Ohio State. Therefore, he's going to Virginia for prep school. It is 100% a school issue and he wouldn't have been eligible to play at OSU had he not made the switch. Got this info about a month ago when he was at the Shootout we played in.

I've actually got the inside scoop on that. Crater's class core requirements were not what they needed to be in order for him to get into Ohio State. Therefore, he's going to Virginia for prep school. It is 100% a school issue and he wouldn't have been eligible to play at OSU had he not made the switch. Got this info about a month ago when he was at the Shootout we played in.
Hope this kid doesn`t get lost in the shuffle. I just don`t trust Matta. Obviously, I am as Green as it gets, but I just don`t feel like you can trust Matta to do whats right like you could Izzo.

The school he's going to is just for his senior year, he'll be at OSU as a freshman. He won't get lost in the shuffle. Despite what I said earlier about him, he's too good now to get lost.

This will be a good year for MSU to chalk up visits and convince recruits that their run and gun style with lock down defense is THE shit. Once they see the fast play and high flyers well have one hell of a class. Strickland ISN'T going to Indiana. Once he officially visits state again (which he has to since he likes it there so much) then I'll expect him to commit and get the commitment train rollin for 09.

Sims and Kirk are supposed to be coming in for some unofficial action soon.

Prepspotlight said Howell is down to six. I assume that MSU is included.

Prepspotlight said Howell is down to six. I assume that MSU is included.

He stated that MSU is his current favorite. Rivals has it updated I believe.

Klay Thompson is in town this weekend with his mom.

Riley is supposed to be back at UM for the 2nd straight weekend.

Crisler locker rooms are finally getting something decent for the players in plasma tvs, pool table, video games, etc.

2 weeks in a row for Riley huh? Wow, if that is true I hope he doesn't start developing any sort of relationship that is too close to Michigan. I really want Riley in green. He'd be the perfect Center to fill in with the other players coming in at other positions. For whatever reason though, MSU has never had a relationship with DCD.

Donovan Kirk was offered by MSU and has them high on his list, Scout.com

2 weeks in a row for Riley huh? Wow, if that is true I hope he doesn't start developing any sort of relationship that is too close to Michigan. I really want Riley in green. He'd be the perfect Center to fill in with the other players coming in at other positions. For whatever reason though, MSU has never had a relationship with DCD.
Tre, I have said this a thousand times, if a kid looks at MSU and UM, and chooses UM, pack his bags for him and let him go.

True. I don't think Riley will be this way though. I talked to his Mom a month ago and she is very protective of him and his future. I think she'll want him making a good safe choice so that he has success and ends up in the NBA. Not saying he couldn't end up in the NBA going to Michigan, but MSU is safer in that regards. Izzo will get you there.

Lets see, over here we have a 2007 Bentley GT with Asanti ASF rims and over here we have a 1999 Grand Prix that just had a shiny new radio and floor mats installed. DeShonte, which car would you honestly prefer to spend the next 3 or 4 years of your life driving around the country? I don't think I need to tell you which car is Michigan and which car is Michigan State;)

Like someone said above, if he ultimately decides with Michigan (with the playing time and national stage that'll be available at MSU) then Izzo and Co. are better off without him. MSU doesn't need guys that want to be big fish in little ponds.

Fortunately I think Riley is a smart kid with a solid support group surrounding him and they will realize that he is tailor made for the big time and the Michigan State program. He'll eventually commit to the Green and White.

Lets see, over here we have a 2007 Bentley GT with Asanti ASF rims and over here we have a 1999 Grand Prix that just had a shiny new radio and floor mats installed. DeShonte, which car would you honestly prefer to spend the next 3 or 4 years of your life driving around the country? I don't think I need to tell you which car is Michigan and which car is Michigan State;)

Like someone said above, if he ultimately decides with Michigan (with the playing time and national stage that'll be available at MSU) then Izzo and Co. are better off without him. MSU doesn't need guys that want to be big fish in little ponds.

Fortunately I think Riley is a smart kid with a solid support group surrounding him and they will realize that he is tailor made for the big time and the Michigan State program. He'll eventually commit to the Green and White.

I agree!

Lets see, over here we have a 2007 Bentley GT with Asanti ASF rims and over here we have a 1999 Grand Prix that just had a shiny new radio and floor mats installed. DeShonte, which car would you honestly prefer to spend the next 3 or 4 years of your life driving around the country? I don't think I need to tell you which car is Michigan and which car is Michigan State;)

Like someone said above, if he ultimately decides with Michigan (with the playing time and national stage that'll be available at MSU) then Izzo and Co. are better off without him. MSU doesn't need guys that want to be big fish in little ponds.

Fortunately I think Riley is a smart kid with a solid support group surrounding him and they will realize that he is tailor made for the big time and the Michigan State program. He'll eventually commit to the Green and White.

I would think that with Izzo's up-tempo style there might only be room for a few bigs that are somewhat "stiff" and right now I think Herzog is driving that Bentley for 3 years of Riley's career........would you really wanna have to ride in the backseat or shotgun.............LOL.

That was the best analogy I could come up with. I haven't seen his game so I don't really know which school he fits more, but to each his own when it comes to making a decision right?

P.S. When I said "stiff" don't take that to mean that Herzog and Riley are statues, but I was simply referring to the fact that I'm assuming neither is throwing down windmill dunks from the elbow or putting their arm through the rim with their athleticisim.

While Izzo's guards and wings run the floor, he has always needed quality big men as part of his system. Probably the best center of Izzo's tenure was Andre Hudson and that's when they were on their biggest run. For those that forgot, he consistentlly provided 15 and 10 and then 18-20 and 10 his senior year. He was as consistent as they get. Very un-Davis like.

UM received its second verbal for 2008. Stuart Douglas from Carmel, Ind. Lets just say he is a "sharpshooter".

I'm really shaking my head at Beilein's recruiting early on. I mean, does he really think these guys can play D-1 ball in an Elite conference? I mean, look at this clown.

http://vmedia.rivals.com/IMAGES/PROSPECT/PHOTO/STUARTDOUGLASS7_17200.JPG

He averaged 12 points a game last year and chose Michigan over Evansville and Harvard. UGH! WTF?

I'm really shaking my head at Beilein's recruiting early on. I mean, does he really think these guys can play D-1 ball in an Elite conference? I mean, look at this clown.

http://vmedia.rivals.com/IMAGES/PROSPECT/PHOTO/STUARTDOUGLASS7_17200.JPG

He averaged 12 points a game last year and chose Michigan over Evansville and Harvard. UGH! WTF?

General Studies, motha fuckaaas!

Moodini I am disappointed in you.

First off, the fact is that most of the 2008 recruits have already decided where they want or got their list set up.

secondly, what has UM done in the last 10 years that makes you think anyone wants to come here especially a blue chip?

BTW Amaker had 4-5* players where did that get him?

Are you telling me that WVU would have been a bad team in the Big Ten? Lest we forget the Big East is as a good a BBall conference as the Big Ten in and he had some very good teams there.

It is not a like a MAC coach is trying to bring in MAC level players, but a coach from a conference on par with the Big Ten in Bball and bringing in guys that fit his system.

I will give him a few years before I start talking shit on him. Once he starts winning, which he will, things will be easier on the program and he can start getting some of the blue chips that fit his system to come play for him.

Rivals ranks him as a 3-star, if that means anything. However, I read that he is the 6th man on his high school team. Who knows? As a shooter he may fit Bielein`s system. One thing I can`t see kids like him doing is playing on the ball defense against quick, athletic players. He may make a lot of three`s, but I think he is going to get tied in knots on defense.

Would that be Don Knotts?
HAHAHAhhahahahah AHHAHA HArdy Hargy Her HAr har HAHAHAHAHHAh AAAHAHHAHAHHA HAHAH AHHAHHAHHAHH AHAHHAhhahahhhhACk COgH SWHEEzE Hack Cogent cough HAC A HAACK Coff coff...

Would that be Don Knotts?
HAHAHAhhahahahah AHHAHA HArdy Hargy Her HAr har HAHAHAHAHHAh AAAHAHHAHAHHA HAHAH AHHAHHAHHAHH AHAHHAhhahahhhhACk COgH SWHEEzE Hack Cogent cough HAC A HAACK Coff coff...
You are an idiot, plain and simple. I`m sure your shtick is a laugh riot on the short bus, but rest assured Zippy, you are an idiot.

I'm with Art in that you give him time. I'm not necessarily with him in completely believing that he will win. I am a big fan of him as a coach. The problem may be as mentioned above, the physical play and defense of the BT. I have to wait and see if his teams can handle the physical nature of the BT. His teams might get tore up inside with those skinny shooters. From a pure coaching standpoint, I hope he's successful. From a Spartan perspective, I've got questions. He's got to recruit.

For those that forgot, he consistentlly provided 15 and 10 and then 18-20 and 10 his senior year. He was as consistent as they get. Very un-Davis like.

Andre was consistent and his numbers were good...but they weren't that good. He was more 14 and 7 but he brought that same high intensity on both ends of the floor every game. That's what made him so good and so damn valuable to the team.

Word on the street is that the whitey was offered by West Virginia and got his scholarship pulled for playing so shitty during the summer.

http://media.scout.com/media/image/47/474186.jpg VS. http://www.risemag.com/images/FE/chain195siteType8/site161/client/Nov06_DET_fea.jpg

Word on the street is that the whitey was offered by West Virginia and got his scholarship pulled for playing so shitty during the summer.

http://media.scout.com/media/image/47/474186.jpg VS. http://www.risemag.com/images/FE/chain195siteType8/site161/client/Nov06_DET_fea.jpg

LMAO Bball! That is some funny shit. Damn Summers is lookin sick in that pic. Ummm....I think I'll go with the guy on the right. He looks okay. Still laughing.

Word on the street is that the whitey was offered by West Virginia and got his scholarship pulled for playing so shitty during the summer.

http://media.scout.com/media/image/47/474186.jpg VS. http://www.risemag.com/images/FE/chain195siteType8/site161/client/Nov06_DET_fea.jpg

That about sums it up. Mods on the Wolverine are questioning his recruiting and this commit as well. Sucks to be a Michigan fan.

I'd imagine that this commitment (and the Cronin commit) to the Maise and Blue really got the current players excited about the future of Michigan basketball.

Manny Harris upon hearing about Michigan's future shooting guard,

"Stuart WHO? You serious??? Shit man...Izzo just got D.Roe and we get Stewey Douglass? WTF."

I'd imagine that this commitment (and the Cronin commit) to the Maise and Blue really got the current players excited about the future of Michigan basketball.

Manny Harris upon hearing about Michigan's future shooting guard,

"Stuart WHO? You serious??? Shit man...Izzo just got D.Roe and we get Stewey Douglass? WTF."

I believe Glenn threw out the line, "A penny for Jake Long's thoughts" a week ago. I'll throw it out again, a penny for Manny's thoughts?

Word on the street is that the whitey was offered by West Virginia and got his scholarship pulled for playing so shitty during the summer.

http://media.scout.com/media/image/47/474186.jpg VS. http://www.risemag.com/images/FE/chain195siteType8/site161/client/Nov06_DET_fea.jpg
I had heard it was actually Western Michigan that pulled his offer after watching him play. Could be a mix up, but either way it doesn`t speak well of the kid`s game.

Those kids better make about 75% of their three-point shots or it is going to be a long downward spiral for blue and yellow basketball.

Those kids better make about 75% of their three-point shots or it is going to be a long downward spiral for blue and yellow basketball.

Down from WHAT and to WHERE exactly?
Yet another GENIUS prediction from our Basketball Wunderlichs in East Lansing.

Down from WHAT and to WHERE exactly?
Yet another GENIUS prediction from our Basketball Wunderlichs in East Lansing.
Down from NIT participation, to no participation.

Is John Beilein purposely trying to become the polar opposite of the John Thompson Sr coached Georgetown teams? Lets see, he accepted the walk-on of Eric Puhls (white), his first recruit was Ben Cronin (white), his second recruit was Stu Douglass (white) and he's trying his darndest to make his third recruit Kyle Kuric (who also happens to be of the caucasion persuasion). He also tried (and failed) to recruit: Luke Loucks, Tyler Zeller, Tanner Smith, Ryne Smith, Luke Fabrizius and Joe Trapagni.

Coincidence or is Beilein doing his best to make Michigan the anti-Georgetown?

Should we re-name the Wolverines...the Cracka Kings?

Friendly (but honest) ribbing aside, this trend is NOT going to sit well with the high school coaches in Detroit, Saginaw and Flint. And I'm not kidding on that one. You cannot tell me that there aren't any underrated three point shooting specialists in the above mentioned cities who aren't better all around players than Stuart freaking Douglass.

You got that right. And this goes back to my posting about the Delta Shootout this summer. EVERYBODY was represented there, every school but Michigan. Dantonio realized immediately that he needed to connect to the hotbeds in Michigan. It is VERY early, but it doesn't look like Beilein is taking the same approach...? That will be a MAJOR mistake. If you have Saginaw, Flint, and Detroit to work off of and you don't hit it up strong, you might as well resign now.

Paul Day
SpartanMag.com Staff Writer

Talk about it in The Underground Bunker
The past few weekends in East Lansing have been telling for Donovan Kirk , a junior forward prospect out of Detroit Country Day.

During that time span, the 6-foot-8, 205-pounder has been on the Michigan State campus unofficially visiting Tom Izzo's basketball program while taking in three MSU victories at Spartan Stadium.

Kirk's most recent visit – the Saturday of the Pitt game – had him taking part in the Spartans' annual basketball reunion. While on campus he took a crash course in hoops, running pick-up with and against current and former MSU players.

Although highly recruited, Kirk learned an important lesson running the floor at Breslin's auxiliary gym: He can't rest on his laurels, which include a four-star rating as Rivals.com's 19th-ranked power forward – No. 57 player overall - in the Class of 2009.

"It was great … But it lets you know where you need to be, and how to compete at that level," said Kirk, who mentioned playing alongside the likes of NBA players Shannon Brown and Jason Richardson. "Playing I realized I didn't think that I was there physically. So that's the kind of atmosphere I like. In the summer I play with some pretty good players, too, so that's one thing that really gives you a wake-up call."

Now, Kirk isn't saying that he needs to be NBA-ready immediately, but that's eventually the goal. Right now he's working on preparing for his first season at Country Day – a team looking to repeat as Class B state champions – and the successful college career he hopes follows.

He should be set there, though. Several of the nation's top programs are already giving him a look, and of the group, the Spartans seem to be in a good position at this point.

"I'd definitely say State. I like State a lot," Kirk said when asked to name the schools that are interested in him. "But also when I think about my college I'm thinking about a place where I can go and be a great four, where they produce great forwards, and also being able to play on a good team.

"I like Syracuse. I'm not sure if they produce good fours or anything. I'm not sure how that would be. I like Xavier, and Florida and Memphis, and Iowa and Michigan. OU (Oakland) is jumping in now. I'm not sure if I want to go there or not. I think if you can go to Florida or State then I don't see how you got to OU." Kirk later added Miami-FL and Villanova to the list.

Talking Spartans

Kirk said that when it comes to his recruitment he speaks with Izzo and assistant Dwayne Stephens, and occasionally top assistant Mark Montgomery. He credits the staff's personable approach as one of the top reasons he's impressed with the program.

"One thing I really admire about them is if there's an open gym Coach Izzo and his staff comes … ," Kirk said, adding that Izzo "popped in for a couple seconds" this past Tuesday. "And if you see Coach Izzo sitting over there watching you play, and I mean what are you going to do, even if you see an assistant, you know?"

The answer: Kirk keeps playing, despite being admittedly nervous when the staff visits. His nerves settle down when he's near MSU players, however, as he has an existing relationship with at least two of the guys, while he's building bonds with the rest of the roster.

"I definitely have a good comfort level up there. I went there on an unofficial and I already had friends up there. I knew Kalin (Lucas) and I knew Durrell (Summers)," Kirk said.

"But when I went up there I kind of hung out with Kalin. And then I spent the night over at Raymar's (Morgan) apartment and hung out with him. And I saw Travis (Walton) and Drew (Neitzel). They're all good dudes. Chris Allen, man, the boy can play. But for real."

Asked about what the Spartans staff has told him, Kirk shared the following: "They definitely explained to me that there are some bigs they're trying to get in. At this point I guess I can tell that I would be like a three, four there. They still have big Tom Herzog there. I'm pretty sure they're going to get some other forwards because it's State. But I think I would fit in well because of my work ethic, and how I know that Coach Izzo notices that."

In addition to Kirk, Michigan State is recruiting a handful of talented forwards. Five-star Marietta, Ga., forward Ari Stewart (6-7, 190) has the Spartans high on the list of schools he is looking at. Stewart, the No. 15 ranked player in the class of 2009, hails from the same Worldwide Renegades AAU program that sent Allen to Michigan State.

Minnesota forward Royce White is also being recruited by the Spartans. White, the No. 32 ranked player in the Class of 2009, is a product of the same Minneapolis DeLaSalle high school program that sent Alan Anderson to Michigan State.

Racine Horlick small forward Jamil Wilson is another outstanding small forward from Wisconsin that is on the Michigan State recruiting radar. Wilson has already received offers from Wisconsin, Marquette, and Purdue after a strong summer. Atlanta area standout Richard Howell is another talented forward being recruited by the Spartans.

Wilson is ranked the No. 33 player in the Class of 2009 by Rivals.com. Howell is ranked No. 66 in the same class.

Always improving

Kirk is known for playing around the basket and not stepping far from the blocks. There he likes to use his size and jumping ability to seal off defenders and, if the opportunity presents itself, leap over them for a jam.

He is working on his three skills too, which could make him more of a threat down the line. But as for now, Kirk would like to pattern his game after a recent NBA lottery pick.

"I want to be like (former Grand Ledge and Florida standout) Al Horford," he said. "I plan on playing a lot like him, I guess. That's what many people say. But I'm definitely working on my three skills, too, because it wouldn't hurt to be like LeBron (James), I guess. Well, actually he's a freak."

Kirk said his greatest strength might be his quick-trigger leaping ability.

"I guess I'd definitely say I get off the ground real quick …," Kirk said. "If I get down there then I'm really trying to dunk it. I'm good at catching the ball and then just going back up and dunking it quick. "

And that ability to get up allows him to develop a new weapon in his arsenal, which he put on display this past summer at the Nike Peach Jam tournament in North Augusta, S.C.

"I think I got a jump-hook. The right-handed jump-hook is my favorite move," Kirk said of his new shot.

But as with most high school players, Kirk's game has plenty of holes, which he is constantly working to patch up. He mentioned two areas of note: his strength and dribbling ability.

Strength is a given, as he will need to improve in that area with every step he takes on the basketball ladder. With ball-handling, Kirk has observed that he's beating defenders because of his ahead-of-the-curve athleticism, most notably his quickness.

"Right now I can get by somebody just with footwork," he said. At the next level, Kirk said he would like to not only take his man off the dribble, but have the ability to bully Division 1 defenders in the post.

As for a commitment, Kirk said that he would like to have his college decision out of the way before his senior season and possibly closely after the summer AUU season ends. He's only unofficially visited MSU and Michigan, so he still has plenty of fact-finding endeavors ahead of him.

The two Country Day boys sure would make an amazing frontcourt duo for the 2009 class. Add in Wilson and Strickland at the 3 and the 2 and you have yourself a bonafide #1 ranked class in the nation. That would be fucking fantastic and hopefully things pans out in a similar manner but these kids are going to be in high HIGH demand so you never know.

But with Izzo at the point and momentum on his side...I've grown to expect the best.

Tre, that was waaay too long of a post, must have been well over 700 words.

Tre, that was waaay too long of a post, must have been well over 700 words.

Moodini is correct: Tre loses 250 "Posting Points" for today.

Tre, that was waaay too long of a post, must have been well over 700 words.

haha, I know. Longest post ever. Spartan basketball is the one exception to the 700 word rule.

Royce White officially offered by MSU says Scout, personally i'm surprised that Wilson wasn't offered. WTF, Wilson is a baller and has connections with Lucious.

Some nice Lansing Summer League videos of Allen, Lucas and Summer.

A couple of sweet dunks by Chris and Durrell!

http://uk.youtube.com/user/Toolmanf91

Some nice Lansing Summer League videos of Allen, Lucas and Summer.

A couple of sweet dunks by Chris and Durrell!

http://uk.youtube.com/user/Toolmanf91
Wow, Lucious may not have the intellect or personality of Marques Slocum, but he sure looks like he is going to be a damn good Big Ten guard.

Dexter Strickland still favoring MSU


Heels Recruiting Jersey

So here it is September, and North Carolina coach Roy Williams has offered scholarships to not one, but two, junior guards in the Garden State: Dexter Strickland of St. Patrick (left) and Dominic Cheek of St. Anthony.
Strickland is ranked No. 9 in the Class of 2009 by Scout, while Cheek is right behind at No. 10.

Can the Heels take both? What are the odds they get either?

The 6-3 Strickland, who will take over for Corey Fisher as the lead guard at two-time Tournament of Champions winner St. Patrick, blew up this summer at the Steve Nash and LeBron James Nike Skills Academies.

"I love him," Don Showalter, chair of the USA Men's Basketball Junior Development Committee, said at LeBron in July. "I've seen him quite a bit. He was at our USA (Basketball Youth) Festival two weeks ago and I thought he was probably one of the better point guards there. He can go as far as he wants to go, and he's so coachable. He'll take what he gets here this week and get better at it."

Strickland listed Michigan State, North Carolina and Florida as his top three, and it looks like Michigan State is still the favorite at this point. Dexter's mom, Sheronne, told us in July that Tom Izzo's staff had developed a great rapport with the family.

Still, Strickland said North Carolina was a type of "dream school."
"That's everybody's dream school, North Carolina, Duke, that kind of thing," Strickland said last month at the Boost Mobile event in Manhattan.

Strickland is a high character kid who gets great family support. His mother and various uncles come to all of his events, and several family members even made the drive out to Akron, Ohio for the LeBron camp.

As for the 6-5 Cheek, legendary St. Anthony coach Bob Hurley called him the most highly recruited player at the school in a generation.

Cheek told ZAGSBLOG the other day that UNC was his dream school after Coach Williams came up on Monday to personally offer him a scholarship through Hurley.

"I was very excited," Cheek said. "I would never expect a school like North Carolina to offer me a scholarship. It's my dream school."

Wake Forest, Villanova and Ohio State are also in the mix.

Cheek plays for the same AAU outfit, the Paterson-based Playaz Basketball Club, as UNC guard Wayne Ellington, whom we featured last spring when the Heels played Georgetown in the NCAA Tournament in New Jersey.

Cheek may visit UNC on Oct. 12 when the Heels being their season with "Late Night with Roy," and we wouldn't be shocked if he committed not too long thereafter.

A year ago, five St. Anthony players committed as juniors, and Cheek could follow suit if Hurley gives his blessing.

In the meantime, Strickland and Cheek could go head-to-head this year if the teams meet up in the Non-Public Group B state playoffs. The two programs have combined to win 24 of the 28 state titles in that bracket since 1980.

Strickland's St. Pat's team is the two-time defending Tournament of Champions winner and he is shooting for a three-peat, while Cheek and the Friars are hoping to win the first state title for any of the current seniors.

I said it from the start. Strickland is my #1 choice. This kid is sick! He'd become one of my all time favorites at State, I truly believe that. He's so good and so young still.

Another Strickland tidbit from a Jersey dude.

"All I know is Dexter loves MSU. He has known about Lucas, Lucious, and Allen for a while now. He would have knocked MSU off his list long before if he was that concerned about it. No doubt you know Roy Williams, Billy Donovan, Thad Matta, and $amp$on will bring that up. I have heard from an insider I trust who talked to Jay Wright of Villinova at one of the summer tournys and Wright said he would be shocked if Strickland did not choose MSU. I have to say thats pretty good to hear when it's coming from a program that's recruiting strickland hard also."

From the Arizona Republic:

Oct. 15, 2007 12:00 AM
Indiana men's basketball coach Kelvin Sampson will not receive a $500,000 raise and his team will lose one scholarship for next season after violating NCAA-imposed sanctions on phone calls.

The action announced by the school Sunday was the second time in 17 months that Sampson has been penalized for improper phone calls.

The NCAA banned him from off-campus recruiting for one year in May 2006 when the infractions committee ruled that Sampson made 577 impermissible calls from 2000 to 2004 while at Oklahoma. As part of the penalty, Sampson also was banned from participating in three-way calls.

This guy amazes me and I hope he suffers for it. 577 improper calls. It's not like you barely went over. Then you top it off by doing it AGAIN! What a cheater. I hope this makes Dexter Strickland a lock for the Spartans.

Strickland favors the trio of MSU, UNC, an UF. So all those visits to Bloomington and Indiana rumors are done. I bet it was due to Sampson's calls, he just lost contention for the best Pg in 2009.

Evidently, Bielein took his band of chuckers down to Kent State for a private scrimmage and Kent State beat their ass three times. It is rumored Kent State beat the little blue and yellow pussies by double digits all three games.

Sampson's shenaniganz doesn't stop Ebanks from signing with IU apparently. He says he still intends to sign with them.

All-American Freshman Team


SF: Michael Beasley, Kansas State — Versatile forward who can score inside or out.
PF: Blake Griffin, Oklahoma — Strong, tough and plays hard all the time.
C: Kevin Love, UCLA — He'll be the top all-around center in college basketball before long.
PG: Derrick Rose, Memphis — Strong, quick and athletic, plus terrific court vision.
SG: Eric Gordon, Indiana — The ultimate scoring guard.

BENCH


G: O.J. Mayo, USC — Not much he isn't able to do on the court.
G: Jerryd Bayless, Arizona — Combo guard who can play either spot.
F: Kyle Singler, Duke — Versatile forward who can score, rebound and defend.
PF: Kosta Koufus, Ohio State — Extremely skilled and 7-foot-1.
PG: Jonny Flynn, Syracuse — He'll give this squad another pure point guard.
C: DeAndre Jordan, Texas A&M — A long and skilled 7-footer with a world of potential. PF/C: Patrick Patterson, Kentucky — He's consistent with his effort and a force in the paint.

Draymond Green (F, 6-7, 230, Saginaw, Mich./Saginaw) - Averaged 25 points, 13 rebounds, three assists and three steals as a junior ... Led Saginaw High School to the Michigan Class A State Championship and a 26-1 record ... 2007 Detroit Free Press and The Detroit News Dream Team Member, the lone junior on the team ... Shot 52 percent from the field and 73 percent from the foul line ... First-team all-area and all-conference selection ... Ranked the No. 98 player overall in the nation by Scout.com, including the No. 29 power forward ... Rated the No. 77 player in the ESPN 150, including the No. 21 power forward ... Averaged 12 points and 11 rebounds as a sophomore ... Plays AAU basketball for the The Family, having previously played for the Michigan Mustangs ... Plays for Coach Lou Dawkins at Saginaw High School.

Izzo On Green: "What attracted me to Draymond was that he has great hands and great skills. The other thing I like about him beside his versatility is that he played for a great high school coach in Lou Dawkins on a team that won a state championship. He has an understanding of how to win, and I think that is very, very important. I think he needs to get into the best shape of his life, and that will be taken care of. He was out for a period of time during the summer because of injury, which might have caused him to slip in the national rankings. We expect him, however, to be a very good player for us."


Korie Lucious (G, 5-10, 165, Milwaukee, Wis./St. Pius XI High School) - Averaged 24.2 points, 5.4 assists, 4.3 steals and 2.6 rebounds as a junior at St. Pius XI High School, leading his team to a 19-4 record ... Shot 48.3 percent from two-point range, 42.3 percent from 3-point range and 82.5 percent from the foul line ... Named the 2007 Classic Eight Conference Player of the Year ... First-team all-area selection ... Participated in the 2007 USA Basketball Men's Youth Development Festival, averaging 18.2 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.4 assists ... Ranked the No. 90 player overall in the nation by Scout.com, including the No. 11 point guard ... Rated the No. 85 player in the ESPN 150, including the No. 9 point guard ... Attended Rufus King High School as a sophomore, averaging 12.1 points, 6.5 assists and 2.3 steals ... Plays AAU basketball for DTA Wisconsin ... Plays for Coach Joel Classen at St. Pius XI High School.

Izzo On Lucious: "In Korie Lucious, we knew we were going to be losing Drew Neitzel, and he's a guard that can do more than one thing. Even though he's only 5-10 in stature, he's one of the quickest ball-handling guards. And I think sometime in the future we can play him and Kalin Lucas at the same time, giving us an extremely quick backcourt. Korie is a guy who can really shot the ball. An extra benefit is that he has played against good competition and he's a winner, playing for a very good coach in Joel Classen."


Delvon Roe (F, 6-8, 220, Lakewood, Ohio/St. Edward High School) - 2007-08 Sporting News First-Team All-American ... 2007 EA Sports National Junior of the Year ... 2007 EA Sports All-America second team and Parade Magazine All-America fourth team ... Averaged 22.5 points and 11.5 rebounds as a junior at St. Edward High School, leading his team to a 25-1 record, the Ohio Division 1 semifinals, a No. 23 final national ranking and a No. 5 Midwest Regional ranking by USA Today ... Led St. Edwards in blocks (60) and steals (69) and was second in assists ... Shot 40 percent from 3-point range as a junior ... Runner-up for 2007 Ohio Mr. Basketball honors ... Named 2007 Player of the Year in Ohio by the Cleveland Plain Dealer ... All-Ohio Division I honoree ... Participated in the 2007 USA Basketball Men's Youth Development Festival, averaging 30.3 points (tournament best) and 10.3 rebounds ... Ranked the No. 9 player overall in the nation by Scout.com, including the No. 2 power forward ... Rated the No. 7 player in the ESPN 150, including the No. 2 power forward ... Averaged 20.5 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.2 steals as a sophomore ... Named all-state honorable mention and all-district as a sophomore ... Averaged 16.3 points, 9.6 rebounds and 3.2 blocks as a freshman, earning all-conference accolades ... Plays AAU basketball for King James Shooting Stars ... Plays for Coach Eric Flannery at St. Edward High School.

Izzo on Roe: "I don't think there's any question that Delvon Roe is everybody's first team All-American. He took his team to the state semifinals last year, and he's a favorite to go back and win a state championship. He plays for another great high school coach in Eric Flannery, so he's been well-coached. He improved his three-point shooting a lot last year. He's kind of like a Raymar Morgan, but maybe more athletic in scoring around the basket. He's not quite as strong as Raymar is though, but he's similar. Delvon is a winner from the get-go, and he's really going to help us. On and off the court, he has the credentials to do great things."

What attracted him to Green was that he didnt want him to go to Michigan..:)

I'm not sure if I posted the picture the correct way, but THIS cat is who Coach B is now recruting and would you even believe me if I told you that he is from the same school as Courtney Sims? I'm starting to think this is a gay version of OLSM (an all boys school).

Beilein (fresh off getting worked by CMU - yuck) got a commit from U of D Jesuit 6'8" PF Jordan Morgan. Not a stud, but can help the team. Class of 2009.
Beilein may also soon add Laval Lucas-Perry as a transfer from Arizona. Possible he would be eligible to play Jan 2009.
I'm not sure if that would leave UM with 1 more schollie for 2009 or 2.

Huge bonus would be if UM football can reel in Terrell Pryor. Cronin and Douglass would join the team at the beginning of the season, with LLP and Pryor (#30 overall in hoops - 6'6" SF) joining the squad in January - ready for most of the big ten schedule, big ten tourney, and any other post-season opportunity.

D.Roe will miss the rest of the season after having microfracture surgery on his knee this past Monday. He's out of commission for the next 6-8 months. Bad break for the kid but he should be ready to go by mid/late-summer 2008.

Arthur Hill High School hosted their annual Pre-Holiday classic today with 5 games. Teams included Carrolton, Cedar Springs, Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills, Hartland, Nouvel Catholic Central, Detroit Community, Midland, Ypsilanti, Arthur Hill and Oak Park - a late replacement for Detroit Finney which flaked, allegedly to take more money for a game against Martin Luther King.

A number of decent players were featured, but I'll give my scouting report on two: James Still and Von Jones. Still is a 3 star PF considered by some to be one of the better players in the state in what looks to be a loaded 09 class. OVER-RATED!. He has size, at least height that is. But not much else. He showed some touch, hitting an 18 footer. the rest of his 10 points came inside when he was pretty much left alone. At 6'10" scout lists him at 200 lbs. Good luck. He's much closer to 180 and was easily boxed out by kids a foot shorter with average builds. His box score included 10 points, 8 boards, and 13 blocked shots. The blocks sound impressive, and his shot blocking instincts are solid, but every shot he blocked was taken by someone under 6'2". Two were even flat-footed blocks. He handled the ball a lot for a big man, but very rarely went down low. When he tried to post up it was 10' out and the team never went to him. He was clearly not their first option.
Von Jones, listed by scout as playing for Arthur Hill, is actually at Hartland. Trust me, a very good Arthur Hill team would be lucky to have him. He was intense. He scored 37, which included 5-7 threes. He was a good ballhawk defender and showed excellent court vision. He's 6'0", but may be growing still. I wouldn't be surprised to see him hit 6'2" or 6'3" and be a very solid PG for a low major, possibly even higher depending on his development. Easily the best player in the building today.

http://michiganstate.scout.com/a.z?s=175&p=8&c=1&nid=2411829

All of a sudden MSU vaults to no interest for Dexter Strickland.....FUCK. It looks to be a battle between UNC and FL.

http://michiganstate.scout.com/a.z?s=175&p=8&c=1&nid=2411829

All of a sudden MSU vaults to no interest for Dexter Strickland.....FUCK. It looks to be a battle between UNC and FL.

What happened for him to "cool off" on the Sparties? Was it something on his end or what? Michigan State basketball seems to be rolling along with it's normal ease so far so this seems to somewhat come out of leftfield.

I don't get it either. It sucks though.

Perhaps there is such a thing as being "too stacked".

Some kids just want to be "the man", Nikes or no Nikes.

When a player leaves a team, anyone know how soon that palyer's scholarship can be given to someone else?
Example, Jerrett Smith off the team at UM. Can Beilein use his schollie for someone in the class of 2008 during the late signing period?

When a player leaves a team, anyone know how soon that palyer's scholarship can be given to someone else?
Example, Jerrett Smith off the team at UM. Can Beilein use his schollie for someone in the class of 2008 during the late signing period?

2008 - yes. If released from scholarship, I think you could even pick up a 2007 kid(in a Bill Walker style mid year pickup).

Thanks.
Not sure how many other teams still have 08 spots available, but it would be nice if some of the better HS kids out there put UM on their list simply because they were running out of options. I'm still not sold on Beilein as a recruiter, so I'll take any help he can get.
Now, if the team can just start beating teams like Harvard and CMU instead of shooting themselves in the foot....

As a follow-up to post #851 scouting some of the top talent in the state, I've recently witnessed a couple Arthur Hill games worth talking about.

Last week was Arthur Hill - Saginaw High, the rematch. Saginaw High destroyed Arthur Hill. Won by 28. While Draymond Green had a nice game (I think 13 points, 17 rebs), Daniel West was the star in this one. West is a strong high school player, but isn't getting many big time offers because his game might not translate as well to the next level. He uses his 6'1" size to his advantage against most HS guards, but that advantage won't be there in college and he probably doesn't have the quickness to be a big game baller. Saginaw High moved the ball incredibly well and could never get caught in a trap, meanwhile their defense trapped a AH team that rarely showed any urgency.

Tonight, Arthur Hill faced Country Day and it was a completely different team. I fully expected DCD to win, and the first quarter looked like I might be right. DCD led 17-11 after the first quarter. Jordan Dumars was the main man tonight in a very balanced attack. All 5 starters hit double digits for Country Day, but Dumars 14 was tops. He was 4 of 6 from deep, including one that was easily 5 feet behind the line. Dad was in attendance and I told him he had to make a deal with Memphis - he said he would call them Monday, with a chuckle. Classy. DeShonte Riley, who many have said was soft, had back-to-back highlights in the 2nd quarter when he had a thundering two-hand dunk in traffic and drew the foul. He missed the free throw but immediately afterward swatted a would-be shot 5 rows deep on the other end of the court. He's much more advanced than James Still - not even close - but still has work to do. He and Donovan Kirk could stand to add 25-35 lbs of muscle. Their box scores were similar, about 10 points and 5 rebounds each, but Riley added 8 blocked shots. It's hard to judge them by the low offensive numbers because they never run the offense through them. It's a very perimeter driven offense. Neither player ever had the chance to really battle for position underneath, even though they had at least a 4 inch advantage at each position on the floor. Anyhow, Arthur Hill fought back and was only down one at the half. Lastreze Mushatt, scoreless in the first half, heated up in the 3rd quarter. Arthur Hill was the more aggressive team, but the teams played even in the 3rd and DCD still held a 1 point lead at 49-48. In the 4th quarter AH surged ahead and had a lead as high as 7. DCD fought back and fired up a 3 at the end that would have tied it, but it fell short and AH won 62-59. Outstanding game. The official scorer was talking to me during the 4th about Dumars. He showed me the stat book from a couple games ago. In that game, Dumars had 27 points - all coming on 3's. Yep, 9 threes. At 6'6", there were people once saying he was getting recruited because of his name. I'm not so sure. He would be the ideal player for Beilein's offense, and almost too good defensively for Beilein.

I hope some of you enjoy these scouting reports.

Jeth, great read.

Can you pick an appropriate time for a new thread so we can shelve this bohemeth and move on to something more navigatable?

How about the "Richard Simmons High School Basketball Thread"?

http://www.hollywoodrag.com/images/uploads/richard_simmons_bulging_thumb.jpg

bukdow middle school girls during gym class basketball thread.

There aren't many senses of humor on this board. That's why the threads have shit names, like MSU Vs PSU OGT. What the fuck does OGT mean? How about this: MSU PSU STEEL CAGE DEATH MATCH!!! Or "IZZO SAYS: WE WIN OR DIE TONIGHT THREAD!!!"

I'm listening to WTKA on "the intranet" right now, and they have Jamie Morris on. Since when did he become such a buffoon?
I hate Merril Hoge.

What the fuck does OGT mean?


I think they mean "cogent" but forget the C, E, and N.

Weird how that happens every time.

I see that the Sparties got a big man from Ohio. All I can see is a picture on spartanmag.com and he looks like Drew Naymick's dorky younger cousin (for real) but I'm guessing he is a legit baller. Someone with Sparty access give us the dish on the the guy who will own Ben Cronin for the next 4 years.

6'10, supposedly 230, but looks fairly built for that size. Offered by ND and Purdue, 'burst onto the scene' this year. Averaged 23/13/5. Prepspotlight considered him the top junior in Ohio. Link to some clips: http://www.wmfd.com/newsboard/single.asp?Story=30834

Supposed to be included in the new top150 on Rivals.

Also, Appling is supposed to like MSU, and that would be a nice pickup.

The BIG man, 6'9 275 pound Derrick Nix committed to the Spartans.

State lost their prize today as DeShonte Riley committed to Georgetown.

State lost their prize today as DeShonte Riley committed to Georgetown.
He was no longer being considered. Was outplayed by Nix numerous times on the AAU circuit. The kid is a mouthy little pussy. Kind of like you, Jethro.

On a side note, UM beat out USD for a German kid.

Once again considering a 3 star to be better than a 5 star. I've seen both play in person and Riley has much more upside. He's taller, more athletic, and moves better. All Nix did was bump lighter kids out of the paint to get Appling's rebounds and put them back.
Don't get me wrong - both are 25 times better than James Still, who even your grandmother could box out if she really wanted it, but save your jealous rants. Many Sparties were still hot after him and were more than a little pissed that he went to his childhood favorite team, all while wondering how an instate kid could possibly like any team not ruled by the Izzo.

Michigan signed 6'10" small forward/power forward Robin Benzig from Germany today. Sounds like he won't be able to play until '09 because he played a few games with some teammates that got paid so it is considered "professional" under NCAA rules, but he should be good to go then. People compare him to Dirk, but on a much smaller scale. He plays amazing man defense and has even won awards at h.s. camps for his play. He isn't a great shooter yet, but he has been shooting from the International 3 point line his whole life. Sounds like he needs to put on some weight (but prolly won't) and will be like a Dirk, Okur, Bargiana, wanna be Rasheed type player with a lower skill set.

He can't shoot and plays D and Dirk is the player they compare him to? He's white and German, why not compare him to Hitler.

Once again considering a 3 star to be better than a 5 star. I've seen both play in person and Riley has much more upside. He's taller, more athletic, and moves better. All Nix did was bump lighter kids out of the paint to get Appling's rebounds and put them back.
Don't get me wrong - both are 25 times better than James Still, who even your grandmother could box out if she really wanted it, but save your jealous rants. Many Sparties were still hot after him and were more than a little pissed that he went to his childhood favorite team, all while wondering how an instate kid could possibly like any team not ruled by the Izzo.
http://michigan.rivals.com/viewrank.asp?SID=883&Year=2009&ra_key=1642

Nix #108

Riley #111

You are a drippy douchebag, Jethro.

He can't shoot and plays D and Dirk is the player they compare him to? He's white and German, why not compare him to Hitler.

I lol'd

Once again considering a 3 star to be better than a 5 star. I've seen both play in person and Riley has much more upside. He's taller, more athletic, and moves better. All Nix did was bump lighter kids out of the paint to get Appling's rebounds and put them back.
Don't get me wrong - both are 25 times better than James Still, who even your grandmother could box out if she really wanted it, but save your jealous rants. Many Sparties were still hot after him and were more than a little pissed that he went to his childhood favorite team, all while wondering how an instate kid could possibly like any team not ruled by the Izzo.

http://michigan.rivals.com/viewrank....09&ra_key=1642

Nix #108

Riley #111

You are a drippy douchebag, Jethro.


Kind of feeling like an idiot again, aren`t you Jethro.

Did you seriously copy your own post?

I was wrong about the rankings, I'll give you that. A recently as a few weeks ago Riley was a 5 star. I stopped following his ranking because it was clear UM did not have a shot with him, and his interest was leaning heavily toward Georgetown. No more need to keep up with his ranking so closely.

Meanwhile, you're making it sound like Nix is owning him, yet the result is being higher ranked by a total of 3 players nationally? Oh yeah, that's just like Lebron being compared to Udonis Haslem, right? Oh wait, you probably know nothing about the NBA. My bad.

Oh, by the way, scout has Riley ranked higher still, even in spite of his dropping stock.

Did I also mention that many Spartan slappies became addicted to Donovan Kirk once Riley began looking elsewhere, as though Kirk was a savior (why would you need one when you've had the self-proclaimed best back-to-back recruiting classes of Izzo's career?). Then Kirk committed to Miami and now you're probably saying he sucks too, right?

I still stand by the fact that in person Riley was much better, and I guarantee he has the better career. He'll be recognized as one of the top players in the Big East and Nix will head to Europe to play professionally.

Did you seriously copy your own post?

I was wrong about the rankings, I'll give you that. A recently as a few weeks ago Riley was a 5 star. I stopped following his ranking because it was clear UM did not have a shot with him, and his interest was leaning heavily toward Georgetown. No more need to keep up with his ranking so closely.

Meanwhile, you're making it sound like Nix is owning him, yet the result is being higher ranked by a total of 3 players nationally? Oh yeah, that's just like Lebron being compared to Udonis Haslem, right? Oh wait, you probably know nothing about the NBA. My bad.

Oh, by the way, scout has Riley ranked higher still, even in spite of his dropping stock.

Did I also mention that many Spartan slappies became addicted to Donovan Kirk once Riley began looking elsewhere, as though Kirk was a savior (why would you need one when you've had the self-proclaimed best back-to-back recruiting classes of Izzo's career?). Then Kirk committed to Miami and now you're probably saying he sucks too, right?

I still stand by the fact that in person Riley was much better, and I guarantee he has the better career. He'll be recognized as one of the top players in the Big East and Nix will head to Europe to play professionally.

You are an idiot. And, by the way, what is a "slappie"? What are you, 13 years old?

How about calling a sports radio station and asking them what a slappy is and if it's a term limited to 13 year olds. Meanwhile, you're tossing around whitty rhetoric like "drippy douchebag". Clearly my intellectual superior, you are.

Michigan signed 6'10" small forward/power forward Robin Benzig from Germany today. Sounds like he won't be able to play until '09 because he played a few games with some teammates that got paid so it is considered "professional" under NCAA rules, but he should be good to go then. People compare him to Dirk, but on a much smaller scale. He plays amazing man defense and has even won awards at h.s. camps for his play. He isn't a great shooter yet, but he has been shooting from the International 3 point line his whole life. Sounds like he needs to put on some weight (but prolly won't) and will be like a Dirk, Okur, Bargiana, wanna be Rasheed type player with a lower skill set.

Sweet, another wierd white skinny guy. But this time he's foreign! What is Belein doing? Trying to create the anti-Fab Five? I hate Michigan basketball, but I'm a fan, if that makes sense.

http://sacandolavuelta.bitacoras.com/nerd.jpg
Who's next? I heard this cat can really stroke it.

I've seen pictures of this dude. He actually wears a jersey that looks Fab Five- about 12 sizes too big - and the global popularity of the Fab Five had a lot to do with his interest in UM.

Trust me, when Beilein gets these guys to play his system, it's not going to matter to you what color they are. Do the Vikings play a horrible brand of basketball because they're white? I don't think so. Duke typically attracts a white crowd. They just get the absolute best white kids and mix a McDonald's All-American or two with it. Beilein has to establish enough winning before Detroit kids will believe him. It just so happens right now that white kids are the only ones believing in him. Once a few kids from the state buy into what he's doing, hopefully he is able to recruit instate kids better. Adding a kid like Morris from California would be nice - and word is UM is his heavy favorite.

I've seen pictures of this dude. He actually wears a jersey that looks Fab Five- about 12 sizes too big - and the global popularity of the Fab Five had a lot to do with his interest in UM.

Trust me, when Beilein gets these guys to play his system, it's not going to matter to you what color they are. Do the Vikings play a horrible brand of basketball because they're white? I don't think so. Duke typically attracts a white crowd. They just get the absolute best white kids and mix a McDonald's All-American or two with it. Beilein has to establish enough winning before Detroit kids will believe him. It just so happens right now that white kids are the only ones believing in him. Once a few kids from the state buy into what he's doing, hopefully he is able to recruit instate kids better. Adding a kid like Morris from California would be nice - and word is UM is his heavy favorite.
OK, I think I know what a "slappy" is now.

I think we'll get Morris (at least based on what I've been reading)...

with a core of Cronin, DeShawn, Morris, Manny, Kelvin and Wright, we should be solid for Sims senior season...

I think we'll get Morris (at least based on what I've been reading)...

with a core of Cronin, DeShawn, Morris, Manny, Kelvin and Wright, we should be solid for Sims senior season...

Slippy...Slappy...Swanson?...Samsonite! You are way off!

Check out this picture of Benzing and you'll know EXACTLY why he chose Michigan..........ADIDAS! Sucks on that, Nike SLAPPIES!

http://info.detnews.com/pix/blogs/newsmakers/benzing_robin.jpg

Former NBA Star Joe Dumars' Son Verbally Commits To USF

By BRETT McMURPHY | The Tampa Tribune
Published: June 23, 2008

TAMPA - Jordan Dumars, the son of former NBA all-star Joe Dumars, verbally committed to the University of South Florida's men's basketball program Sunday.

A 6-foot-5, 230-pound shooting guard at Detroit's Country Day High School, Dumars said he chose USF over Duquesne, Dayton and Michigan. Duquesne was the only other school that offered him a scholarship, he said. A senior at Country Day this fall, Dumars will join the Bulls in the 2009-10 school year.

"I really liked South Florida, and I was comfortable with [Coach] Stan Heath," Dumars said. "Next to being comfortable with Coach Heath, I chose USF because it's in the Big East.

"They don't have the history of a Georgetown or Syracuse, but I wanted to go to a big-time conference like the Big East."

Both Dumars and his high school coach, Kurt Keener, said Dumars' strength is his shooting ability.

"He's a big, strong kid that's capable of playing the 2-guard or small forward," Keener said. "His greatest asset is his ability to shoot the ball. He's really a deep, long-range shooter."

As a junior last season, Dumars missed 10 games with a knee sprain but averaged 14 points a game. Keener set Dumars set a school record, making nine 3-pointers in a game. As a sophomore, Dumars was the sixth man on Country Day's state championship team.

"At about 6-6, 230, his body is very similar to his father's," Keener said. "I think his best basketball is still ahead of him. He's still developing athleticism with that big body. When he learns to attack the basket, he can be a really good player."

Being the son of Joe Dumars has been a big asset for the younger Dumars, Keener said.

"He's been around basketball all his life," Keener said. "He has a very high basketball IQ."

Added Dumars: "My dad taught me a lot."

Wow, USF huh? I've seen this kid in person and he's got legit range and solid defense. Not sure how he'll do against kids his size, but he can take over a game. Even with all the options Country Day had, he was often the one that dictated how they did. When I was working one of their games, someone opened up the scorebook of a previous game when he went 8-9 or something from 3 point range. He rarely cared where the line was, pulling up from whatever felt comfortable, often 2-3 feet behind the line.

Beilein must have scared him away.

Dayton could have used him, that's for sure...

We're looking at a best case scenario for UM's remaining 2009 scholarships that could land a pair of 4 stars.

Darius Morris is the best bet. He's been almost a UM lean and he'll be visiting soon. #10 PG in the country.
Next is Roger Franklin. #20 SF, but still a 4 star. It looks like Indiana has been the unspoken leader, but UM is getting a lot of attention there very recently.
Outside shot is Dion Sims. I'm thinking he's probably a done deal to State at this point, but UM is technically still in it, I suppose. I'm not sure what he's ranked as lately for hoops because everyone but him thinks football is a better bet.
Two other names that are 4 stars and have been mentioned are Glen Rice Jr and Jamil Wilson. I don't see either of those happening at all, but I thought I would throw it out there anyhow.

Darius Morris update

The Los Angeles area coach of 2009 UM hoops prospect Darius Morris believes the player will most likely commit to a school by Aug. 1, or possibly within the next two weeks. And Michigan, according to this coach, appears to remain in the lead for Morris' services. I spoke to Miguel Villegas, Morris' coach at Windward High School, and he told me late Wednesday that Michigan has made quite an impression on Morris, especially after his visit last weekend. "He said he loved what he saw out there," said Villegas of Morris' trip to Ann Arbor during coach John Beilein's team camp. "I think the coaching staff there has really done a great job with him." Morris is ranked as a 4-star prospect by Rivals.com and also earned the same ranking from Scout.com, which also ranks him the No.12 point guard nationwide. Some video of Morris can be found here and here. The recruitment of Morris should get very interesting in the next couple of weeks since July is the hardcore talent evaluation month for college coaches. Can Michigan stay in the lead and deliver one of the program's more highly recruited targets in recent memory? Only time will tell. Villegas told me that Morris is also being courted by Kentucky, Arizona, USC, Stanford, Washington State, South Florida and Marquette.

Sounds like Morris is set to announce tomorrow...... he'll be blue

What time is Morris announcing?

Nevermind. It's official anyhow. Does a 4 star basketball player committing to UM deserve its own thread?

Nevermind. It's official anyhow. Does a 4 star basketball player committing to UM deserve its own thread?

I think YOU are the best person to make that decision and nominate you to make that choice.

Tell me more.

Is this another gumpy 6'10" white kid that shoots threes?

Nevermind. It's official anyhow. Does a 4 star basketball player committing to UM deserve its own thread?
This kid is going to be the next Magic Johnson. Therefore, his own thread is in order.

Morris and Douglas filling it A squared style under the B-Line is going to be a thing to behold. NCAA buy more nets because Douglas and Morris are going to "tickle the twine" to oblivion. Hail!!!

This guy is a jerk. I hate him.

stedi

Post #59
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Re: Darius Morris to announce tommorow Reply
You know what? I agree. There are some pg's in LA that have not even been mentioned that are better than him. Really! when he plays with Belmont Shores he looks ok cause they usually have good players. His high school is in a very weak division and they are afraid to play real tough non-league schools where he would be exposed. No hate, just fact, check it out. You won't see Dominguez, Fairfax, Westchester etc. ever, if he is the ranked guy lets see him lead his school against the dogs in the city & cif.

Tell me more.

Is this another gumpy 6'10" white kid that shoots threes?

6'3" - 6'4". Last year averaged 27 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists.

Rivals ranks him as a 4 star, the #10 PG in the class of 2009 and #70 player overall. Scout recently dropped him to a 3 star, has him as the #13 PG.
Had a strong summer at some of the national camps, including a strong showing at the Steve Nash camp for the nation's top 20 PGs.

This gives UM now the #13 PG and #16 C for 2009, based on Scout rankings.
Again, Rivals has Morris as the #10 PG and they have Morgan, accurately, as a PF, unranked but 3 stars.
These two were also roommates, I believe, at the NBPA camp.

Here is some stuff from ESPN, who also has him as the #13 PG.

Evaluation

May, 2008: Morris has steadily improved over the years and is now considered a high-major prospect. His frame has filled out nicely and he has great size for the point guard position. He has a slick handle and he has gotten better off the bounce. His jump shot has improved as well, even though his release his point is still low. In the past Morris' downfall has been his decision-making (played with no purpose in mind) which led to turnovers and ill-advised shots. Although he has improved in that area, he does have a tendency to force the issue when the play isn't there. As his savvy improves Morris will be one of the top five point guards out west in the class of 2009.

January, 2008: Morris is one of the better combo-guard prospects in the west coast class of 2009. His length and skills are impressive, but playing for a small school and its respective competition has probably hurt Morris in his development. He can get away with forcing the issue against average competition, but when he has to match-up against players of his ability or better, he can become turnover prone. However, one area that has improved dramatically in the past year is his jump shot. He has raised his release point -- due to added strength -- and as a result his shot is much smoother. Overall, Morris is a gamer and hopefully his savvy will continue to evolve as he gains experience.

September, 2007: After an impressive performance (solid assist to turnover ratio) at the Reebok Summer Championships in Las Vegas during July, Morris reverted back to some old habits (poor decision making) at the Fullcourt Press Showcase. From a physical standpoint (lengthy frame), Morris has all the intangibles to be an elite point guard down the road. In addition, his jump shot has improved considerably over the past year as well. However, his decision making and shot selection were erratic at times. He looked to score and force the issue at this event rather than set up his teammates -- but then again, that generally happens in an all-star atmosphere.

That sounds pretty good.

Score one for the Master Motivator.

Plus Morris has turned his attention to recruiting, trying to get UM Camp fixture Nate Lubick (#30 overall in the class of 2010 - a 6'8" SF) to commit. Not sure what Lubick's time frame is, but he's a huge Beilein fan and got along very well with Morris at UM's Elite camp.

Plus Morris has turned his attention to recruiting, trying to get UM Camp fixture Nate Lubick (#30 overall in the class of 2010 - a 6'8" SF) to commit. Not sure what Lubick's time frame is, but he's a huge Beilein fan and got along very well with Morris at UM's Elite camp.

It seems like Lubick is feeling us a little bit, hopefully Morris works on him, but it's going to be tough to overcome that Duke offer.

Screw Duke.

Beilein has put them on notice, saying there is another program that is in the top 25 over the past 24 years who will take the nation's whitest shooters and allow them to flourish!

In fact, word is that JJ Reddick has decided to spent the offseason in Ann Arbor working out with Mike Barwis.
alsoicompletelymadethatlastpartup

Per si.com Darius Miles, the #10 rated pg committed to michigan.

Per si.com Darius Miles, the #10 rated pg committed to michigan.

Sweet.

http://slamonline.com/online/wp-content/uploads/2006/11/darius-miles.jpg

Dude has a lot of experience and should help 'us' out a great deal.

I knew he was having trouble finding a team, so I'm glad that Beilein could help him out.

Motivation has always been Miles' problem, so it's a good fit.

Wow, that's amazing. Not only do they have Darius Morris, the #10 PG in HIS class (as reported here long ago), but now they have Darius Miles, the #10 PG in HIS class?
They should be set in the Darius and PG categories for years to come.

This just in...Ron Paul's polling numbers are not very good.

Beilein will get a chance to motivate yet another goofy looking white kid
http://vmedia.rivals.com/IMAGES/PROSPECT/PHOTO/MATTVOGRICH7_23200.JPG
Matt Vogrich, SG out of Lake Forest, Ill
Rivals ranked 131 in his class
Actually sounds like a very nice player that will fit the system well

Beilein will get a chance to motivate yet another goofy looking white kid
http://vmedia.rivals.com/IMAGES/PROSPECT/PHOTO/MATTVOGRICH7_23200.JPG
Matt Vogrich, SG out of Lake Forest, Ill
Rivals ranked 131 in his class
Actually sounds like a very nice player that will fit the system well

How can you be the #131 player in your class and yet you are a 3 star? And can we ever get any "ballers" that look cool? Still sounds pretty solid though.

Red headed white kid. I like Michigan's image for the future.

We're the BYU of the midwest.

This pastey white kid just committed to MSU.

http://michiganstate.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?pr_key=71020&sport=2

I wonder how Belein missed out on him?

He must be able to actually play.

I wonder how Belein missed out on him?

He must be able to actually play.
Bielein tried but UM came in third behind MSU and Kentucky.

It's simple - Izzo takes the pasty white kids with red hair that have game.

Belein takes all the pasty white kids with brown hair.

It's simple - Izzo takes the pasty white kids with red hair that have game.

Belein takes all the pasty white kids with brown hair.
Seems to be a distinction.

Michigan received a commitment today from a very intriguing prospect. The kids name is Blake McLimas and he is a 3* that is attending Prep School in Massachusetts although he is a New Yorker. He is your typical dorky looking tall ass white kid, but he apparently is quite a long range shooter.

The reason he is intriguing is because he played 3 spots in h.s. (v-ball, b-ball and baseball) and never played AAU. Because he didn't play baksetball in the summer nobody ever knew about him and this is why he is ranked terribly. He had offers from Ga. Tech, Providence and was being looked at by BC. He has a 7-1 wingpsan (which is great for the 1-3-1 zone) and likes to both bang down low and chuck 3's. Still skinny, but just think about the dorks that Wisconsin gets that always kill Michigan..............now we've got our own tall white dork.

This pastey white kid just committed to MSU.

http://michiganstate.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?pr_key=71020&sport=2


And just when MSU fans thought they we're done having to look at the ugly as sin Drew Naymick, this guy commits...

I've heard there were 7-8 hoops recruits at the Duke game yesterday. Had to be the perfect recruiting atmosphere. Anyone have a list?

I've heard there were 7-8 hoops recruits at the Duke game yesterday. Had to be the perfect recruiting atmosphere. Anyone have a list?

The only one I know for sure was there was Tim Hardaway Jr. along with his dad.

I'll try and find a complete list...

I hope DeShonte Riley & Ziegler were there.

Big Will Campbell was in the middle of the court jumping up and down when the fans stormed after the win...

Will Gholston was in the house too.

Alex Gauna has picked MSU. That gives them Gauna, Byrd, and Appling for 2010 with one more commit likely.

Who will it be? Zeigler?

Meanwhile UM is hoping they can grab Zeigler, McCallum, or Morgan Moses to go along with this other prep school kid whose name can't be spelled or pronounced.

Moses is going to Indiana and his name is pronounced Smawk-trees

UM would have a better chance at getting Chris Webber to suit up again than getting Zeigler. Not to be a dick, but MSU's chances are even slim. Probably a Bruin.

Zeigler is a UM/MSU only battle right now. He has said he has no intentions of going back to the West Coast. If State wants him they get him, if they decide to sign the other kid (can't think of his name) then he will go to Michigan.

Zeigler is a UM/MSU only battle right now. He has said he has no intentions of going back to the West Coast. If State wants him they get him, if they decide to sign the other kid (can't think of his name) then he will go to Michigan.

Dexter Strickland also said he wasn't going to Carolina, yet he'll be wearing the baby blue next year. We'll see...if that's the case I hope I'm dead wrong and you're right. I also hope Zeigler goes to Michigan then because I want C.J. Leslie BAAAAAD. Watch the kid's youtube video calling him the next K.G., the kid is ridiculously good.

I see something on Rivals that suggests Zeigler being a strong Michigan lean. I should have known better, strong statements always end up being wrong. I think it is God's way of making fun of us. Well, it wouldn't be the first or last time I'm wrong.

This Zeigler recruitment is interesting for a number of reasons. Zeigler has said he would like to play in college with AAU teammate Ray McCallum, Jr. (McCallum has made similar comments). Considering who they are checking out, that would make it seem like UM and UCLA are the teams to beat for these two sons of college coaches. That could be huge for a number of reasons. First, not only is Zeigler a 4 star on his own, but RM is a 4-5 star (depending on the site) and the teammate of 2011 big man Amir Williams.

A commitment on Zeigler's part could possibly start a chain of dominoes that is very, very beneficial for UM. Amir is close with Brundidge and on and on.

Now, in no way am I saying that if Zeigler commits it's a lock that McCallum hops on board and then a lock that Brundidge and Williams follow suit. Who knows with any of these kids? How does any of their recruitments impact Kearney?

Here's the thing though: For the first time in a long time the possibility actually exists. It would shock people in an earth-shattering way to see some of these guys end up at UM. Yeah, advantage MSU still, but it's nice to legitimately be in the conversation for a change.

Tim Hardaway Jr. commited to Michigan this morning.

Tim Hardaway Jr. commited to Michigan this morning.

Think he knows the "UTEP 2 step"?

His dad must not have met the queer population on campus visits.

His dad must not have met the queer population on campus visits.

http://www.pinestreetartworks.com/images/jack_thurston_laughing.jpg

In all seriousness, this is a nice pickup. Reading about him it sounds like he has a ton of talent. He's in ESPN's top 100 and their bio says he has good ability as a ballhandler, passer, shooting from anywhere on the court, can create his own, good defender, very athletic, etc. The only knock is his strength.

The only thing I wonder is how this might impact the recruitment of some other guys. I would imagine whatever small chance UM had a McCallum is done unless they seriously hype Hardaway as a 2, and that would likely hurt their chances with Zeigler. Furthermore, looking down the line at guys like Kearney and so on.

I know Hardaway was at Beilein's elite camp all week and got his offer there after very strong play. Wonder if he forged any relationships he'll try to leverage in the recruiting process. I think he and Walter Pitchford were teammates most of the week.

Looks like Nate Lubick is a de-commit from Georgetown. He was a big Beilein fan and gave UM some serious love before choosing the Hoyas. Could he end up joining Smotrycz and Hardaway?

http://vmedia.rivals.com/IMAGES/PROSPECT/PHOTO/NATELUBICK9_2150.JPG

#47 player in his class, 4-star, 6'8". That would give them 2 four-star forwards in that class, along with Hardaway. Not sure how many scholarships they have for that class. Grady leaving the team should have given them an extra one, and you can likely bank on Manny leaving after this next season, opening another for that 2010 class.

Isiah got a verbal commitment from some kid named Dominique Ferguson. Those of you that follow hoops recruiting probably know who he is.

Isiah got a verbal commitment from some kid named Dominique Ferguson. Those of you that follow hoops recruiting probably know who he is.

Matt Bonner's step son?

Michigan got a verbal from 2011 SG Carlton Brundidge (Detroit kid I think) over the weekend (according to King Beaver of Scout).

Michigan got a verbal from 2011 SG Carlton Brundidge (Detroit kid I think) over the weekend (according to King Beaver of Scout).

6'1". #98 player in his class. Solid.