What a fun time to be a Hoo. Fresh off our unbelievable victory at Miami on the gridiron, I fired up the jalopy to head into Charlottesville for the home opening basketball contest. Still in a good mood from Saturday night, Sunday morning was excellent as well. Weather in Charlottesville was nice, I had a very cute waitress at "three" on the corner, and my steak and eggs and bloody mary really hit the spot. I was ready to witness my truest passion in sports, the University of Virginia basketball team.
Got to my seats about 10 mins. before tipoff. Looked very empty. No big deal I thought. Arena will look a lot more full a few minutes after tip. Well, that never really happened. But anyways, more on that later.
I liked the pregame. I really liked the new effect when Cavman is on the big screens, and he throws down the sword and the audio makes the "chink" sound and the blue and white flashes go on all of the ribbon boards. I know that is a horrible description, but trust me, it is a cool effect. I could not help but think how impressive the whole thing was compared to what I have seen at other ACC arena's. The crowd then cheered emphatically when the boards switched to the orange "fire" effect. Very cool. Glad they brought the lazer's back out as well. I hope those stay this time. (Yes Im a bit of a cheeseball. This stuff gets me going)
Now for what really mattered. The game.
I am going to start by saying that I have a really good feeling about this team. No, its not like yesterday's performance was flawless by any means, nor was it even good enough to beat most ACC teams, but there is something about this team that is very intriguing to me. For the first time in Leitao's era, I don't think this roster will have to be opportunistic and gutsy and just a tad bit lucky to be good. I think they are just good, period. And when you couple that, with a defensive desire and overall effort that they have been trained to produce the last couple years (really their only chance at winning), I think what you have could be something special. Before I break them down as a team, I will give my opinions on a couple individual performances that stood out.
Adrian Joseph was the star of the game. No doubt about it. You may say thats the easy way out. Pick the guy who was raining jumpers. But that is not why I am giving him the game ball. Not only was his jumpshot impressive, he was doing the things that finally make him a complete player. He was penetrating effectively. He was looking for his teammates. He was smart with the ball. (other than one bad pass, and I'll let it slide) He was giving good effort on defense and the boards. Adrian Joseph played the most complete game of his career, and with it coming on the season opener of his senior season, look for it to be a harbinger of things to come. Scroll down and read my roster breakdown on him if you have a moment. Tell me he didn't do EXACTLY what I was hoping for him in game one.
Sean was Sean. Yes he had six turnovers, but that little guy is a still a man among boys. I loved the leadership he was showing out there. Everytime one of the kids came in for the first time he spoke to them. He was the guy applauding and trying to pump up the crowd for a stop on defense. His whole attitude out there is contagious and he has more leadership skills than any player I can remember in C'ville. His senior season will be special, and he will continue to dazzle us with his quickness, his agility, his shooting, and above all, his heart. Nothing I saw against Vermont would lead me to believe anything less than 1st team all ACC for the third consecutive year.
Calvin Baker has a really odd looking shot that is ALL arms. Very strange. But he drilled a couple long jumpers and looked VERY comfortable out there. I feel so much safer with our depth at G after watching his debut performance. Yes, we have tons of G's on the roster, but they are all babies. Very inexperienced just recently able to vote babies. But seeing Calvin who played in a great league for his freshman year and had a full year of Dave Leitao tongue lashings under his belt before this season really made me realize he is the quality backup we have been waiting for. Not just a guy to give some others a breather, but a guy who can come in and have an impact on the game.
Mo Diane was solid. Disruptive on D. Aggresive enough on O. Like always, he played hard every second he was in there. I don't think you'll see the drastic improvement in Mo's game like you saw last off-season, but what you see is what you get. A kid that will give it his all on both sides of the court, and is more than capable on both sides as well.
Jeff Jones is the real deal. Did not look like a freshman out there to me. Good handling the ball, good enough passer, good finishing around the basket. Didnt really get to showcase his jumper or show me his range, but I pencil this as a good thing. From what I had heard about him not being shy to pull the trigger, he had ample opportunity to jack dumb shots yesterday and chose not too. Maybe after he saw what Dave did to Will Harris, he'll keep that in mind!
The 5's had their moments. With Pett and Lars out there, you will not lack for effort or tenacity. I liked that both got the ball in the post with their backs to the basket and were able to get good looks at the basket. I also LOVED the dish from Pet to Jones on the backdoor cut. I am very nervous about this duo when we play against talented, bigger, true centers. Both tend to foul too much and can be awfully jumpy against head fakes and post moves. We will have to see how this plays out as the talent we go up against improves. I think these guys will look good against the Howards' and the Hamptons', but the good teams will be a true test. Pet is such a liability from the free throw line, Lars has a good looking stroke from the stripe.
Positives:
Great shooting, over 50% our first night out. All though we did jack up some threes, most shots were open looks. Looked good in transition. Effort was there on defense, I thought. A lot of Vermont's buckets came off of broken plays and they got some lucky bounces. Trimboli is a good player and he is going to make some contested shots. I think the D did better than 72 points from Vermont shows. We won the rebounding battle convincingly despite having a smaller lineup out there most of the time. Substitution patterns were good and I thought the team showed decent chemistry no matter who was out there. Nice luxury to have the ability to get fresh legs out there like we did on Saturday. Again, I just think this team has a great balance of good talent, good desire, and good coaching. Im not sure if it can even mean greater things than last years team accomplished, but if we mix in a little good luck and timely play, it could be a special season. First time Ive thought Elite 8 at least is a real opportunity in a really long time.
Negatives:
Offensive passing got a little lackedaisecal at times. We would get in these little ruts on offense where we would just swing the ball around the perimeter between the guards and wait for something to happen. Inevitably someone would get an open three or one guy would take it upon himself to penetrate and create something. But Vermont obviously started to gamble a bit and step in front of those passes. We were just too "ho-hum" with our passing and awfully predictable at times. I was screaming from my seat to show them some sort of different look or atleast be a little more careful and crisp with the passing. Free throw shooting was sub-par. I think we were 67% for the night. After being one of the better teams in the ACC last year, and seeing how well we can shoot the rock from top to bottom, I can't understand how you dont knock these down. 3 point defense is still a concern for me. I thought it was our glaring weakness last year defensively, and while we were better last night, we still had trouble getting our hands in their faces on some occasions. Little guards got off some runners in the lane that had no business being that easy.
Will Harris better just be banged up. All I have to say about that.
Crowd was awful. On a Sunday afternoon with beautiful weather for the Home Opener for the defending ACC regular season champs and that was all that showed up?? I just dont get it. My expectations may be too high, but that type of turnout really chaps my ass. The players have worked their asses off all summer and fall, and after all that excitement they gave us last year THAT was the crowd that turned up for the opener? I remember at one point when Sean waved his arms and up and down trying to encourage a defensive stop, the volume probably increased 3 decibels. It was pathetic. Not because a lack of effort from those who were there, but because there were TONS of empty seats. An emabarrasing amount. Vermont was a good team with serious NCAA hopes and we had like 37 people in the stands for the opener. I could have parked a tank in the lot in front of JPJ. Ridiculous. If it was that bad for Vermont, I'm sure Ill be more dissapointed for the turnout on Wednesday.
Outcome: I'll take an 18 pt. win against a solid team. Positives far away the negatives. Our first W of many in 2007-08.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
The Big 4 - Where do we stand?
John Brandenburg:
I thought we had this guy in the bag. It made no sense to me that once he cut his list down to us and Stanford that he would commit to them. We are in the ACC, we have an up and coming team with state of the art facilities, and we have an immediate need for big men that should mean serious PT early for prospective 5's. They have like 47 big men on their roster right now. Then, he visited Stanford, and both of the reports I read direct from John made it sound like he had the time of his life. He discussed how much he liked the players, the school, and the coaches. He made direct comments about how "Virginia had its work cut out for them". Now, I wasn't all doomsday yet, because I felt we could turn things around when he came to visit us in C'ville. While the reports of Brandenburg's visit weren't bad, there wasn't anything that stood out for me from him or his father that made me feel super warm and fuzzy. No remarks that were made me think we had really flipped the script and turned the tides in our favor. Sure, he had a good time, he liked our guys and he likes the coaches, but I didn't sense that optimism that he left Stanford with. But, once again, I started thinking to myself , How in the world would this guy not choose us? Our situation would fit him so much better! I settled with the opinion that Dave would make him understand how bad we need him now, not later, and that would lead him to give us a commitment. Then the news broke that he decided to set another official visit to Stanford. My heart sunk. I do not like this situation one bit. Why? Because this young man already left Stanford once, giddy about the relationship he had formed with their players. Now he goes back, relationships already formed, with a chance to make himself even more comfortable with their coaches and players. In my opinion, this is a HUGE factor in recruiting. Leaving home and moving across the country away from your friends and family is a huge step for any 17 or 18 year old "kid", athlete or not. Feeling comfortable and acclimated to new surroundings and new people can sway a young man's decision BIG time. If you establish a bond with your potential team mates during the recruiting process it will overshadow alot of other factors you are considering.
Im not saying we have lost him for sure, I am merely saying that this official visit to Stanford hurts our chances, in my opinion. In the end, we still have a lot going for us. First of all, we have his father, who tried to attend grad school at UVA and has spent time in Charlottesville and really likes the school and surroundings. We have the immediate need for an impact big man. (John is not ready to contribute offensively much yet in the ACC, but has the talent and drive to play early) We also have our conference and facilities as selling points. We are a shade closer to home than Stanford is. I felt a little better when ACC recruiting analyst Bob Gibbons said he expected him to commit to us recently, because I know he knows more than I do, but Im not sold.
On a scale of 1 to 10, whats our chances? I say 4.9. I want to stay as close to 50/50 as I can, but I can't curb my feeling that this last visit really makes things easier for Stanford.
Sylven Landesburg:
I get a much better vibe about the situation with Sylven. I can't back that with tons of facts, but I just like the response he gave to his experience with us compared to his other two finalists, Georgia Tech and St. Johns. I am of firm belief that it is pretty much down to two, us and the hometown Red Storm. We should certainly be concerned about the hometown team, in any situation where they are included as a finalist. Especially one where we know Dad would rather have son close to home. (What Dad wouldn't?) But, I like that Sylven got to spend a lot of time with our guys and really seemed to form a bond with his host Will Harris. They had known eachother prior to the visit, so that helped make things a little more comfortable. Sylven is also good friends with former High School team mate Kevin Ogletree, and got to spend time with him hanging out while in town as well. He played a lot of ball with the team while he was here, and was very complimentary of the talent. Sylven has stated a few times that playing early is a definite factor in his decision. He also hints he may want to play some point. While it may seem we have a plethora of bodies on the wing, it bodes well that Dave likes to get his freshman minutes early and often, and I think he will have a shot at playing some 1.
I like this kid because I think he is intelligent, he has a good work ethic, and he's not scared to play defense (along with a solid offensive game). I think he fits in the Dave Leitao mold and would be a great addition. I hope fans don't sell him short because everyone wants Elliot Williams. This kid can really play as well.
On a scale of 1 to 10, whats our chances?: Im going to be a little bold here and say a solid 7. I don't think Ga. Tech is a serious contender at this point. (I know that may be hard for you to believe with what Hewitt does down there, but I really believe this) I think its down to UVA and St. Johns. We will know in only 2 days!!
Elliot Williams-
Here is the big name of the bunch. Potential McDonalds AA. The smooth lefty from Memphis who has already been dubbed E-Mail by the wahoo brethren. Final list inlcudes the hometown hero Memphis. The big state school Tennessee. A little school called Duke. And randomly in the mix, Virginia. Now, we have been trained as UVA fans to believe we realistically have no shot at this young man. I believe, we do. Based on the fact that we were the earliest of the remaining coaches to have a relationship with Elliot (hard to believe with Pearl and Calipari being right there, but true) and the fact that I think he really enjoyed his visit last Saturday, I am holding out a smidgen of hope that we can pull this off. I also know an AAU coach who heard down the grapevine from other AAU coaches that we are a serious contender not just a name. He refers to Coach Leitao as a "father figure" and has stated multiple times that they have a very close relationship. Look, I know this sounds A LOT like a certain kid named Davis who said similar things and chose the evil empire over the close relationship, but maybe, just maybe, Dave has done enough to win this kid over. Also, we are going to have an immediate opening for a superstar when a certain #44 exits stage left. I can not see for the life of me why some these kids dont look at the fact that at a juggernout like Duke and UNC they are just another big name, but at a school like ours they will enter as an icon and torchbearer for the program. Elliot has that opportunity if he chooses our school. His girlfriend is one of the top womens players in the land, and has commited to go win some national titles with Pat Summit. That means she is pushing for him to go to Tennessee. Will this be a factor? You never know with kids these days. She says she wants what is best for him, even if it means Duke or Virginia, but you know she is whispering Rocky Top in his ear whenever possible.
Our chances on a scale of 1 to 10? I am going to say, 4. I think the obvious leader is Duke. He liked what he saw there, he's tight with the VLF, and Dook is Dook. (insert gillen soundbite here). Memphis is still a serious option, based on the comfortability factor I have mentioned previously. Tennessee is on the outside looking in, even with girlie there. I think if he had to rank the 4 we would rank second. I think he is intrigued by the ACC and will wind up either for us, or against us twice a year. Keep your fingers crossed, pull out your lucky hat, and dust off the rabbits foot. Maybe, oh maybe we can get lucky.
Lance Goulbourne:
Im going to be brief on this one, I dont think this one is going to happen. Flat out dont like the remarks he made following the visit. You may say Im overreacting, and maybe I am, but when you specifically site that you were much tighter with the guys on your previous visit, and a couple different interviewers both get the vibe that he wasn't overly impressed or enthused by the whole situation, it typically doesn't bode well. It is too easy to say only complimentary things in this type of interview. You almost have to go out of your way to say anything with a negative conotation. I'm just not getting the best vibe and I think Lance will end up elsewhere, he is planning to set up more official visits to a couple other schools.
Our chances on a scale of 1-10- Im going to say 2. I could be COMPLETELY wrong on this one, and blowing a couple phrases way out of proportion, but I have been right more times than not on these types of hunches. (not that hard being a hoo fan, LOL!)
That is kind of where we are at, in my opinion. I want to be sure that it is stated that these are only opinion. I may follow recruiting a bit more than most, but 95% of my information comes from Rivals, Scout, The Sabre, and local newspapers of the recruits. I do have some friends invloved in the AAU circuit that feed me some info too, but thats about it. Little is factual in these kinds of speculations.
This is taxing time for us die hard Hoo hoops fans. Here we are, on the precipace of realling becoming a major player in the ACC. We only need a few talented signees to really help us turn the page. For now, we trust in Dave, and wait. Then wait some more.
I thought we had this guy in the bag. It made no sense to me that once he cut his list down to us and Stanford that he would commit to them. We are in the ACC, we have an up and coming team with state of the art facilities, and we have an immediate need for big men that should mean serious PT early for prospective 5's. They have like 47 big men on their roster right now. Then, he visited Stanford, and both of the reports I read direct from John made it sound like he had the time of his life. He discussed how much he liked the players, the school, and the coaches. He made direct comments about how "Virginia had its work cut out for them". Now, I wasn't all doomsday yet, because I felt we could turn things around when he came to visit us in C'ville. While the reports of Brandenburg's visit weren't bad, there wasn't anything that stood out for me from him or his father that made me feel super warm and fuzzy. No remarks that were made me think we had really flipped the script and turned the tides in our favor. Sure, he had a good time, he liked our guys and he likes the coaches, but I didn't sense that optimism that he left Stanford with. But, once again, I started thinking to myself , How in the world would this guy not choose us? Our situation would fit him so much better! I settled with the opinion that Dave would make him understand how bad we need him now, not later, and that would lead him to give us a commitment. Then the news broke that he decided to set another official visit to Stanford. My heart sunk. I do not like this situation one bit. Why? Because this young man already left Stanford once, giddy about the relationship he had formed with their players. Now he goes back, relationships already formed, with a chance to make himself even more comfortable with their coaches and players. In my opinion, this is a HUGE factor in recruiting. Leaving home and moving across the country away from your friends and family is a huge step for any 17 or 18 year old "kid", athlete or not. Feeling comfortable and acclimated to new surroundings and new people can sway a young man's decision BIG time. If you establish a bond with your potential team mates during the recruiting process it will overshadow alot of other factors you are considering.
Im not saying we have lost him for sure, I am merely saying that this official visit to Stanford hurts our chances, in my opinion. In the end, we still have a lot going for us. First of all, we have his father, who tried to attend grad school at UVA and has spent time in Charlottesville and really likes the school and surroundings. We have the immediate need for an impact big man. (John is not ready to contribute offensively much yet in the ACC, but has the talent and drive to play early) We also have our conference and facilities as selling points. We are a shade closer to home than Stanford is. I felt a little better when ACC recruiting analyst Bob Gibbons said he expected him to commit to us recently, because I know he knows more than I do, but Im not sold.
On a scale of 1 to 10, whats our chances? I say 4.9. I want to stay as close to 50/50 as I can, but I can't curb my feeling that this last visit really makes things easier for Stanford.
Sylven Landesburg:
I get a much better vibe about the situation with Sylven. I can't back that with tons of facts, but I just like the response he gave to his experience with us compared to his other two finalists, Georgia Tech and St. Johns. I am of firm belief that it is pretty much down to two, us and the hometown Red Storm. We should certainly be concerned about the hometown team, in any situation where they are included as a finalist. Especially one where we know Dad would rather have son close to home. (What Dad wouldn't?) But, I like that Sylven got to spend a lot of time with our guys and really seemed to form a bond with his host Will Harris. They had known eachother prior to the visit, so that helped make things a little more comfortable. Sylven is also good friends with former High School team mate Kevin Ogletree, and got to spend time with him hanging out while in town as well. He played a lot of ball with the team while he was here, and was very complimentary of the talent. Sylven has stated a few times that playing early is a definite factor in his decision. He also hints he may want to play some point. While it may seem we have a plethora of bodies on the wing, it bodes well that Dave likes to get his freshman minutes early and often, and I think he will have a shot at playing some 1.
I like this kid because I think he is intelligent, he has a good work ethic, and he's not scared to play defense (along with a solid offensive game). I think he fits in the Dave Leitao mold and would be a great addition. I hope fans don't sell him short because everyone wants Elliot Williams. This kid can really play as well.
On a scale of 1 to 10, whats our chances?: Im going to be a little bold here and say a solid 7. I don't think Ga. Tech is a serious contender at this point. (I know that may be hard for you to believe with what Hewitt does down there, but I really believe this) I think its down to UVA and St. Johns. We will know in only 2 days!!
Elliot Williams-
Here is the big name of the bunch. Potential McDonalds AA. The smooth lefty from Memphis who has already been dubbed E-Mail by the wahoo brethren. Final list inlcudes the hometown hero Memphis. The big state school Tennessee. A little school called Duke. And randomly in the mix, Virginia. Now, we have been trained as UVA fans to believe we realistically have no shot at this young man. I believe, we do. Based on the fact that we were the earliest of the remaining coaches to have a relationship with Elliot (hard to believe with Pearl and Calipari being right there, but true) and the fact that I think he really enjoyed his visit last Saturday, I am holding out a smidgen of hope that we can pull this off. I also know an AAU coach who heard down the grapevine from other AAU coaches that we are a serious contender not just a name. He refers to Coach Leitao as a "father figure" and has stated multiple times that they have a very close relationship. Look, I know this sounds A LOT like a certain kid named Davis who said similar things and chose the evil empire over the close relationship, but maybe, just maybe, Dave has done enough to win this kid over. Also, we are going to have an immediate opening for a superstar when a certain #44 exits stage left. I can not see for the life of me why some these kids dont look at the fact that at a juggernout like Duke and UNC they are just another big name, but at a school like ours they will enter as an icon and torchbearer for the program. Elliot has that opportunity if he chooses our school. His girlfriend is one of the top womens players in the land, and has commited to go win some national titles with Pat Summit. That means she is pushing for him to go to Tennessee. Will this be a factor? You never know with kids these days. She says she wants what is best for him, even if it means Duke or Virginia, but you know she is whispering Rocky Top in his ear whenever possible.
Our chances on a scale of 1 to 10? I am going to say, 4. I think the obvious leader is Duke. He liked what he saw there, he's tight with the VLF, and Dook is Dook. (insert gillen soundbite here). Memphis is still a serious option, based on the comfortability factor I have mentioned previously. Tennessee is on the outside looking in, even with girlie there. I think if he had to rank the 4 we would rank second. I think he is intrigued by the ACC and will wind up either for us, or against us twice a year. Keep your fingers crossed, pull out your lucky hat, and dust off the rabbits foot. Maybe, oh maybe we can get lucky.
Lance Goulbourne:
Im going to be brief on this one, I dont think this one is going to happen. Flat out dont like the remarks he made following the visit. You may say Im overreacting, and maybe I am, but when you specifically site that you were much tighter with the guys on your previous visit, and a couple different interviewers both get the vibe that he wasn't overly impressed or enthused by the whole situation, it typically doesn't bode well. It is too easy to say only complimentary things in this type of interview. You almost have to go out of your way to say anything with a negative conotation. I'm just not getting the best vibe and I think Lance will end up elsewhere, he is planning to set up more official visits to a couple other schools.
Our chances on a scale of 1-10- Im going to say 2. I could be COMPLETELY wrong on this one, and blowing a couple phrases way out of proportion, but I have been right more times than not on these types of hunches. (not that hard being a hoo fan, LOL!)
That is kind of where we are at, in my opinion. I want to be sure that it is stated that these are only opinion. I may follow recruiting a bit more than most, but 95% of my information comes from Rivals, Scout, The Sabre, and local newspapers of the recruits. I do have some friends invloved in the AAU circuit that feed me some info too, but thats about it. Little is factual in these kinds of speculations.
This is taxing time for us die hard Hoo hoops fans. Here we are, on the precipace of realling becoming a major player in the ACC. We only need a few talented signees to really help us turn the page. For now, we trust in Dave, and wait. Then wait some more.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Strength in Numbers...
Many things excite me about the upcoming hoops season, but as I flicked through the roster for the one millionth time, I found myself so excited about the simple fact that their are 15 quality players on this roster. That has happened, well, like never. I have looked through old rosters and have yet to find one that literally has 15 players that each have the possibility of significant playing time. The fact of the matter is, after the expected 7 or 8 guys, any of the rest of them could potentially step up and see real minutes. Hell, the two players we know for sure will be paying their own way should see plenty of minutes. One, Ryan Petinella, saw significant time last season as we all know and helped with much needed scrappyness in the paint. The other, Calvin Baker, was a prep state player of the year and made the all-CAA freshman team. Not bad for your walk ons. Not bad at all. Oh and number 16 has crazy red hair.
Depth has been an issue for this team for the better part of a decade, but having this many able bodies means a lot more than extra legs on game day. I am most excited about the fact that this group will have had more or less 7 months of pick up games against each other and practice time under Leitao to prepare for this year's season opener. There is no substitute for that. Not to mention the obvious help that competition brings. These kids will have to work extra hard to earn their playing time and those that put forth the effort will be rewarded. This is how you develop players.
Just for S&G, lets look at some random teams of five that could be happening at pickup games right now.
SS/JJ/AJ/LM/RP
CB/MD/WH/MS/TS
SZ/MF/ST/JT/JM
Thats crazy to me. What I did there was literally just pick a random player off the top my head and tried to fill 1 through 5 three times. And damn if the teams didn't come out pretty darn even. All three squads have a point, good shooters, and size inside.
Thats what excites me. Sure, other than Sean we may not have any guaranteed superstars on the roster, but what we have is a quality group of kids who will have to fight for everything they earn. While most of us are happy with Dave, there is still a few posters over on the sabre complaining about his inability to reel in the big time recruit. One look at our roster, and you should realize that we are in much better shape than we have been in years. Now, all we need is that big time player to pull us over the top. If our current momentum is any example, we'll be there before you know it.
Depth has been an issue for this team for the better part of a decade, but having this many able bodies means a lot more than extra legs on game day. I am most excited about the fact that this group will have had more or less 7 months of pick up games against each other and practice time under Leitao to prepare for this year's season opener. There is no substitute for that. Not to mention the obvious help that competition brings. These kids will have to work extra hard to earn their playing time and those that put forth the effort will be rewarded. This is how you develop players.
Just for S&G, lets look at some random teams of five that could be happening at pickup games right now.
SS/JJ/AJ/LM/RP
CB/MD/WH/MS/TS
SZ/MF/ST/JT/JM
Thats crazy to me. What I did there was literally just pick a random player off the top my head and tried to fill 1 through 5 three times. And damn if the teams didn't come out pretty darn even. All three squads have a point, good shooters, and size inside.
Thats what excites me. Sure, other than Sean we may not have any guaranteed superstars on the roster, but what we have is a quality group of kids who will have to fight for everything they earn. While most of us are happy with Dave, there is still a few posters over on the sabre complaining about his inability to reel in the big time recruit. One look at our roster, and you should realize that we are in much better shape than we have been in years. Now, all we need is that big time player to pull us over the top. If our current momentum is any example, we'll be there before you know it.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
ROSTER BREAKDOWN: Adrian Joseph
Up until this point, I have agreed one hundred percent with the way Adrian Joseph has been used by Dave Leitao. A spark off the bench, a player who can provide instant offense and is not scared to fire away with even a glimpse of an opening.
Now, I think things need to change. Adrian is a senior, and has played in many big time games and hit more than his share of big time shots. He has been in the system a long time, and he is past the point of letting his spotty defense hold him back. It is time for him to emerge as the contributor we all know he can be.
In my honest opinion, and many will disagree, Adrian is the purest shooter on our roster. The bottom line is, when he takes smart shots, with his feet set and shoulders square to the basket, he is flat out deadly. There is no shot on the floor I am more comfortable with than an Adrian jumper when is he is in the right position. Now, when you play in the ACC, you have to have more than just a jumper to contribute game in and game out. Scouting reports and defenses will adjust to you so quick your head will spin if you are one dimensional. I remembered reading about Adrian during his recruitment, and scouts were touting his "athleticism" and "ability to play above the basket." I am certain that most of you agree with me when I say, where the hell has that stuff been? But to be honest, at times last season, I saw this athletic ability he has been hiding the last few years. He showed an ability to get around defenders and even a leaping ability that I didn't know existed. Hopefully he spends time this summer and fall improving his ability to create his own shot and get to the tim. I really think he is capable of doing that if he becomes more aggressive off the dribble and doesn't just camp out behind the arc and look for soft spots. It is flat out unbelievable that despite the playing time that Joseph had a season ago, he shot 6 free throws. That is not a typo. 6 free throws. That shows an unbelievable lack in aggresion that must be altered. It should help that Adrian will have a full roster of capable players to play with in pick up games this off season. You can be sure those boys know his strengths and will force him to change his game if he is going to compete. Worse come to worse, we will have Adrian's jumper on board one more season. He is a dangerous shooter for two reasons: First of all, he is incredibly confident. He honestly believes that any time he pulls the trigger he is going to make it. Dave has talked about this many times in post game pressers, the advantages to having a guy like that who never doubts his shot for a second, no matter the situation. Secondly, his release is high and quick and very hard to defend. You may think you have him covered and he can burn you quickly if his feet are set. If he takes smart shots, he will score.
The big liability with him as always been his defense. The bottom line is, he is just a step slow on that side of the ball. You may be confused at how I just talked about his hidden athleticism, but now claim him to be a "step slow". In basketball, there are many players who fit in to this mold. We had one on my roster in high school. This kid could shoot lights and out and jump out of the gym, but for some reason had the lead foot disease on defense. Hell, I could get around him rather easily. I can't help but think that most ACC scouting reports say exactly that about Adrian when he is defending you on the wing. Just go around him. Simply stated, I just don't think he has the desire to play 25 plus minutes of hard gut wrenching defense. It seems to me he has no problem coming off the bench and being the loaded gun with the green light to shoot when he gets in. But I am here to say that we need more out of him! If he can commit the slightest bit more on the defensive end, it will open up the door for so many more minutes and more opportunities for him on offense. Someone light a fire under his ass this off season! If he played with more emotion and a came out there with something to prove I really believe he could have a special senior season.
I hope he finds a way to earn a starting spot at the 3, because I feel we are a more dangerous team with him on the floor. He has good size at 6' 7" and isn't terrible at rebounding on the rare occasion he gets in the mix and bangs.
It's the last hurrah, Adrian. Senior night will be here before you know it. What you do this year will be how we remember you.
Make us remember.
Now, I think things need to change. Adrian is a senior, and has played in many big time games and hit more than his share of big time shots. He has been in the system a long time, and he is past the point of letting his spotty defense hold him back. It is time for him to emerge as the contributor we all know he can be.
In my honest opinion, and many will disagree, Adrian is the purest shooter on our roster. The bottom line is, when he takes smart shots, with his feet set and shoulders square to the basket, he is flat out deadly. There is no shot on the floor I am more comfortable with than an Adrian jumper when is he is in the right position. Now, when you play in the ACC, you have to have more than just a jumper to contribute game in and game out. Scouting reports and defenses will adjust to you so quick your head will spin if you are one dimensional. I remembered reading about Adrian during his recruitment, and scouts were touting his "athleticism" and "ability to play above the basket." I am certain that most of you agree with me when I say, where the hell has that stuff been? But to be honest, at times last season, I saw this athletic ability he has been hiding the last few years. He showed an ability to get around defenders and even a leaping ability that I didn't know existed. Hopefully he spends time this summer and fall improving his ability to create his own shot and get to the tim. I really think he is capable of doing that if he becomes more aggressive off the dribble and doesn't just camp out behind the arc and look for soft spots. It is flat out unbelievable that despite the playing time that Joseph had a season ago, he shot 6 free throws. That is not a typo. 6 free throws. That shows an unbelievable lack in aggresion that must be altered. It should help that Adrian will have a full roster of capable players to play with in pick up games this off season. You can be sure those boys know his strengths and will force him to change his game if he is going to compete. Worse come to worse, we will have Adrian's jumper on board one more season. He is a dangerous shooter for two reasons: First of all, he is incredibly confident. He honestly believes that any time he pulls the trigger he is going to make it. Dave has talked about this many times in post game pressers, the advantages to having a guy like that who never doubts his shot for a second, no matter the situation. Secondly, his release is high and quick and very hard to defend. You may think you have him covered and he can burn you quickly if his feet are set. If he takes smart shots, he will score.
The big liability with him as always been his defense. The bottom line is, he is just a step slow on that side of the ball. You may be confused at how I just talked about his hidden athleticism, but now claim him to be a "step slow". In basketball, there are many players who fit in to this mold. We had one on my roster in high school. This kid could shoot lights and out and jump out of the gym, but for some reason had the lead foot disease on defense. Hell, I could get around him rather easily. I can't help but think that most ACC scouting reports say exactly that about Adrian when he is defending you on the wing. Just go around him. Simply stated, I just don't think he has the desire to play 25 plus minutes of hard gut wrenching defense. It seems to me he has no problem coming off the bench and being the loaded gun with the green light to shoot when he gets in. But I am here to say that we need more out of him! If he can commit the slightest bit more on the defensive end, it will open up the door for so many more minutes and more opportunities for him on offense. Someone light a fire under his ass this off season! If he played with more emotion and a came out there with something to prove I really believe he could have a special senior season.
I hope he finds a way to earn a starting spot at the 3, because I feel we are a more dangerous team with him on the floor. He has good size at 6' 7" and isn't terrible at rebounding on the rare occasion he gets in the mix and bangs.
It's the last hurrah, Adrian. Senior night will be here before you know it. What you do this year will be how we remember you.
Make us remember.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Ed Davis commits to UNC....
Yes folks, this one will hurt.
The un-deniable number one target of Dave Leitao and staff, for the better part of three and a half years, commited to ACC arch rival North Carolina yesterday afternoon. Ed Davis will be a Tarheel.
The news left a very sour taste in the mouths of sabreites and Wahoo faithful everywhere, for good reason. This was supposed to be the guy to bring a legitimate post presence back to the Hoos, something our squad has been missing for years. A homegrown kid that had consistently hinted that Virginia was in the forefront of his recruitment. What happened?
For the record, after following this recruitment closely, I don't think there is a single thing that Dave could of done differently to land this kid. I honestly believe that. He and his staff put in an inordinate amount of work to show Ed exactly how they felt about him. They attended more games, made more phone calls, and sent more texts than any other coaching staff after the prized recruit. He knew he was our number one target. He has known for years. It has been chronicled that Virginia Tech was the first school to contact Ed during his freshman year of high school, but ask him who wanted him the most. He will tell you undoubtedly it was Dave Leitao.
It shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone that his father, long time NBA vet Terry Davis, played a huge role in this decision. Word on the street is that long before UNC finally offered, Terry was in constant contact with folks in Chapel Hill pushing the offer. Is there something wrong with this? No, because I would probably be pushing for offers for my son at the top schools in his sport as well. This one just stings because we were the leader in the house, and UNC hadn't even offered until a few months ago.
There really isn't much to read into this. Ed Davis chose UNC because they are UNC and we are Virginia. I know that reality doesn't seem to exist to some fans, but it shouldn't shock you. They have national titles, league titles, final fours, crazy talent up and down the roster, nba credentials, incredibly loyal fanbase, crazy media airtime and constant attention. It really isn't that hard to figure out. A player that is ranked #2 in the country chose UNC over us. It shouldn't be surprising. It sucks, but it isn't surprising.
Now, undoubtedly the doomsday posters will be out in full force over on my homebase thesabre.com. But here is what the guys can not seem to understand. Rome was not built in a day. Our hoops program is coming off a horrible decade of subpar seasons, attrition, and overall bad play. We have a new man in place that is righting the ship, but do you really think that one NCAA tourney appearance and a new building is going to bring a string of commitments from McDonalds All-Americans? That kind of ignorance is what sets up a lot of our fans for their constant dissapointment. Check the facts. Guys that are top 5 players at their positions go to schools that have crazy tradition and past successes that include national titles and final four runs. Sure, every now and again a 5 star player will feel a special fit somewhere and break the mold. It can not be something we expect at this level in our programs development.
Dave has done an outstanding job. We have had our name in the hat with more top level players over the past two seasons than we have had in the previous six or seven. Im worried some fans will see the offers we have out to other big time players and feel Dave had a bad class if he doesn't land the big fish. Let the recruiting play out and judge his performance when the roster is set next season.
I was as dissapointed as any when the news broke, I legitimately thought that we had Ed's heart, and I was hoping it could push us through. I was not surprised to learn otherwise. Now, I just hope we bring something to the table that will entice Email, Sylvan, John, or JaMychael. If not, I still have my faith in Dave, because he has done nothing for me not to believe in him.
The un-deniable number one target of Dave Leitao and staff, for the better part of three and a half years, commited to ACC arch rival North Carolina yesterday afternoon. Ed Davis will be a Tarheel.
The news left a very sour taste in the mouths of sabreites and Wahoo faithful everywhere, for good reason. This was supposed to be the guy to bring a legitimate post presence back to the Hoos, something our squad has been missing for years. A homegrown kid that had consistently hinted that Virginia was in the forefront of his recruitment. What happened?
For the record, after following this recruitment closely, I don't think there is a single thing that Dave could of done differently to land this kid. I honestly believe that. He and his staff put in an inordinate amount of work to show Ed exactly how they felt about him. They attended more games, made more phone calls, and sent more texts than any other coaching staff after the prized recruit. He knew he was our number one target. He has known for years. It has been chronicled that Virginia Tech was the first school to contact Ed during his freshman year of high school, but ask him who wanted him the most. He will tell you undoubtedly it was Dave Leitao.
It shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone that his father, long time NBA vet Terry Davis, played a huge role in this decision. Word on the street is that long before UNC finally offered, Terry was in constant contact with folks in Chapel Hill pushing the offer. Is there something wrong with this? No, because I would probably be pushing for offers for my son at the top schools in his sport as well. This one just stings because we were the leader in the house, and UNC hadn't even offered until a few months ago.
There really isn't much to read into this. Ed Davis chose UNC because they are UNC and we are Virginia. I know that reality doesn't seem to exist to some fans, but it shouldn't shock you. They have national titles, league titles, final fours, crazy talent up and down the roster, nba credentials, incredibly loyal fanbase, crazy media airtime and constant attention. It really isn't that hard to figure out. A player that is ranked #2 in the country chose UNC over us. It shouldn't be surprising. It sucks, but it isn't surprising.
Now, undoubtedly the doomsday posters will be out in full force over on my homebase thesabre.com. But here is what the guys can not seem to understand. Rome was not built in a day. Our hoops program is coming off a horrible decade of subpar seasons, attrition, and overall bad play. We have a new man in place that is righting the ship, but do you really think that one NCAA tourney appearance and a new building is going to bring a string of commitments from McDonalds All-Americans? That kind of ignorance is what sets up a lot of our fans for their constant dissapointment. Check the facts. Guys that are top 5 players at their positions go to schools that have crazy tradition and past successes that include national titles and final four runs. Sure, every now and again a 5 star player will feel a special fit somewhere and break the mold. It can not be something we expect at this level in our programs development.
Dave has done an outstanding job. We have had our name in the hat with more top level players over the past two seasons than we have had in the previous six or seven. Im worried some fans will see the offers we have out to other big time players and feel Dave had a bad class if he doesn't land the big fish. Let the recruiting play out and judge his performance when the roster is set next season.
I was as dissapointed as any when the news broke, I legitimately thought that we had Ed's heart, and I was hoping it could push us through. I was not surprised to learn otherwise. Now, I just hope we bring something to the table that will entice Email, Sylvan, John, or JaMychael. If not, I still have my faith in Dave, because he has done nothing for me not to believe in him.
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