The Valparaiso Beacons Fan Zone Forum

Who better to kick this thread off with than Ryan Fazekas?
(http://media.247sports.com/Uploads/Assets/834/544/544834.jpg)
6'7, 185 lb wing from MC Marquette. 
Lost to Clay Yeo and Triton in the sectional championship.
Soph stats: 14.3 ppg, 7.7 rpg, and an Broekhoffesque 91% from the free throw line. 
Second team all-area to the NWI times, who had this to say:

QuoteHe produces inside and outside, but a feathery touch that extends to the arc and his ability to handle the ball like a guard has drawn the attention of several Big Ten schools.

Has interest from Michigan and IU, but in a (now year-old) interview with UMHoops had this to say:

QuoteFazekas listed Michigan, Michigan State, Indiana, Ohio State, Xavier, Northwestern, Oregon, New Mexico, Purdue along with "bunch of other small schools" when prompted for a school list but also mentioned his scholarship offer from Valparaiso.

"It felt good when they offered me. I was only 14 years old. I never expected to be offered that young," recalled Fazkekas. "This is only my fourth year playing and I'm still developing. I felt ecstatic when they offered me. But I'm still looking for options and I'm going to keep my options open for a while."

Fazekas has visited Valparaiso, Michigan, Michigan State and Indiana noting that he plans to attend camps at both Butler and Michigan this summer.

Freshman highlight reel:
Ryan Fazekas 6'6" 185 lbs. Class of 2015 G/F (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJ-Vk4e7s5E#)

Bottom line:  an amazing shooter.  Though he could easily end up 6'9, he has the skills/handle/range/general look of a 2 or 3 and so has the potential to be a nightmare mismatch there.  But could he be the next Rowdy if Alec Peters has a lock on the job?

The only other person who has the street cred to kick off this thread would be Matt Holba.
(http://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/nwitimes.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/60/c60b97d9-6ddc-51ef-a11b-bf94e1880bbf/50f76ea511677.preview-620.jpg)
6'6", 185 center from Chesterton; will suit up for Guerin Catholic next year.
Lost to VHS badly in the sectional semi. (10 points on 13 shots, only 2-8 from the line.)
Soph stats: 11.3 ppg, 7.4 rpg.
Also second-team all-area to the Times, who said

QuoteWhether it was scoring, rebounding, defending or ball handling, Holba did a little bit of everything, and did it well for the young Trojans. Effort was never a question.

Again, it's not a bad thing when you and the University of Michigan are trying to feed at the same trough.  Also from UMHoops:

QuoteHaving already attracted the attention of schools like Indiana, Michigan, and Michigan State during his freshman year of high school, Holba is a young player who is already very impressive physically. At 6-foot-6, he can play a variety of positions. He's also strong and his athleticism is above-average.

Because of his size, Holba was a center throughout his early playing days. His task this summer has been to expand his game — develop a comfort level with the ball in his hands on the perimeter, some handle, maybe even a jumpshot.

His AAU coach would add

Quote"He's always done all the blue-collar work—gets assists, defense, rebounds, blocks," Buggs confirmed.

Holba has been in consistent contact with Michigan for quite some time. Last fall, he took a visit during a football game and went to the cookout with the team and coaches, even saying hello to Zack Novak, whom he grew up watching in Chesterton.

Holba said he consistently talks with the Michigan coaching staff over the phone or through text massaging. It appears the interest level is high on both sides. On a possible future visit, Holba said, "If they're still looking, then yeah. It all depends on how I play, really."

Holba is hearing from a few Big Ten schools[...]

No one has made a decent highlight video of this kid because they're too busy putting up dunks.  Which, ok.  But after a while...gets old.

Bonus:  want to see a 7th grade Holba throwing down a dunk in an AAU game and getting T-ed up to boot?  I thought you would.
Indiana Thunder Matt Holba 13 year old dunking! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OaCQpFJ1ig#ws)

here's a much more impressive drive and finish:
Indiana Thunder Best 13U Dunk - class of 2015 Matt Holba (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eSE7Xs7V3I#ws)

Listing of Indiana HS class of 2015

http://indianarecruitingguide.com/prospect-rankings/class-of-2015/ (http://indianarecruitingguide.com/prospect-rankings/class-of-2015/)

Thanks for that!

Indiana Class of 2015 ranks:
8.  Ryan Fazekas:  6'7" Small Forward, Marquette Catholic H.S.

Offers:  Valparaiso, Illinois-Chicago

Interest:  Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Michigan State, Northwestern, Ohio State, Purdue, Xavier

Very good size for a kid who can play on the perimeter.  Ryan can really shoot the ball, and his size lets him get his shot off over just about anyone.  Over the course of the summer he continued to add other dimensions to his game including improving his ball handling and skills down low.  He also may not be done growing.


12.  Matt Holba:  6'6" Power Forward, Chesterton H.S.

Offers:  Valparaiso

Interest:  Indiana, Michigan, Michigan State, Purdue

Matt is a great athlete who can really jump.  Also has very good length.  I could see him growing some more still and becoming a big time threat on the low block.  Right now he is at his best when running the floor and using his athleticism and ball handling ability to get to the rim.  Nice athletic "4″ man prospect.

Also lists us with interest in Hyron Edwards...which...the #10 player in the country?

STAY HOME YOUNG MAN it'll make everyone happy :)

Why not add Chris Palambizio to that list?

6'5" wing player with three point range.

Here is another Chesterton product who is also leaving his high school for greener pastures, transfering to Traders Point Prep School.  Let's see, bring in Fazikous, Holba, and Palambizio to duplicate that great undefeated Chesterton Middle School team of a couple years ago.  Should be able to draw that north Porter County crowd and fill the ARC!

It's not clear to me whether there is any interest on either party's part yet.

(It's also not mine to add someone to someone else's top 50 list either :))

(I don't know if Dan Palombizio is the Drews' cup of tea anyway.)

At any rate, he may move to the class of 2016:
https://twitter.com/palombizio05/status/324680847984840704

...so stay tuned.

My question is, besides maybe improved non-basketball-related maturity, why are so many younger basketball recruits leaving the Chesterton program for private/prep schools? Am I missing something about the academics there, or maybe the attitudes of coaching staff associated with the program? Seems like they have some up-and-coming talent, but by a certain point, they jump ship for a private or prep school within Indiana or one of the basketball factories. Any reasons those of you in the NW Indiana area care to share with those of us that are outside of it?

Quote from: valporun on April 18, 2013, 10:41:36 AM
My question is, besides maybe improved non-basketball-related maturity, why are so many younger basketball recruits leaving the Chesterton program for private/prep schools? Am I missing something about the academics there, or maybe the attitudes of coaching staff associated with the program? Seems like they have some up-and-coming talent, but by a certain point, they jump ship for a private or prep school within Indiana or one of the basketball factories. Any reasons those of you in the NW Indiana area care to share with those of us that are outside of it?

Was just wondering the same thing myself.

Quote from: valporun on April 18, 2013, 10:41:36 AM
My question is, besides maybe improved non-basketball-related maturity, why are so many younger basketball recruits leaving the Chesterton program for private/prep schools? Am I missing something about the academics there, or maybe the attitudes of coaching staff associated with the program? Seems like they have some up-and-coming talent, but by a certain point, they jump ship for a private or prep school within Indiana or one of the basketball factories. Any reasons those of you in the NW Indiana area care to share with those of us that are outside of it?

I don't know anything official. I do know that Tom Peller, Chesterton's head coach, is a great guy. I've never questioned his coaching ability, but I'm not the parent of a D-1 recruit. Fazekas left for Marquette without even giving Chesterton a chance. Mitch McGarry was a totally different situation - his grades were literally as bad as they could possibly be and he needed a change of scenery.
I can say that Dan Palombizio was NOT happy with how the season ended. I saw him in the hallway at halftime of the Valpo game in the sectional. He and another very tall guy (don't know who it was, could have been Holba's dad) were basically screaming at each other about how bad the game was going. Chesterton had a lot more young talent than Valpo High, but Valpo just dominated them the whole game.
Not a lot of positive history at Chesterton. I'm pretty sure Chesterton has only ONE sectional title in school history. One. And that is when Matt Nover played.
I do feel for Tom Peller because he is such a nice guy. He has been there longer than any Chesterton boys coach in the last 20-plus years. But I'd have to say the natives are restless in Cheese-town with these last two defections.

There's definitely been some displeasure with the coaching.

Quote from: Valpo89 on April 18, 2013, 12:51:25 PMI'm pretty sure Chesterton has only ONE sectional title in school history. One. And that is when Matt Nover played.

Chesterton has 3 sectional titles.....1955, 1968 and 1987.  As a frame of reference Valpo has won 51 sectionals and Portage has 10.

Quote from: lowposter on April 18, 2013, 06:35:52 AM
Why not add Chris Palambizio to that list?

6'5" wing player with three point range.

Here is another Chesterton product who is also leaving his high school for greener pastures, transfering to Traders Point Prep School.  Let's see, bring in Fazikous, Holba, and Palambizio to duplicate that great undefeated Chesterton Middle School team of a couple years ago.  Should be able to draw that north Porter County crowd and fill the ARC!

Maybe things would be different by then, but it sounds like an awful lot of stage parents and personal agendas to deal with.  One player with helicopter parents can be a nuisance; 3 or 4 can undermine everything the coaching staff is trying to do and destroy team chemistry in the process.  We already had an isolated case of that with Brandon Wood and his dad. That was more than enough drama all by itself.

I can't ever imagine Dan meshing with the Drews...and if you get Chris you get Dan too.  I don't know if Dan's father is still around or not, but he was a bigger trip then Dan was.  I would imagine the other tall guy was Holba's father, who was very tall and seemed to live through his son back when I was in close contact with these guys.

Sounds like the type of fathers who don't like the Bobby Knight/Bo Ryan Control the Clock Motion Offense that sounds like what a Tom Peller likes to stick with? This kind of basketball parent really hinders youth sports in so many ways, not only in terms of the coaching, but the team chemistry, and confidence of the individual player.

http://www.nwitimes.com/high-school/chesterton/jim-peters-peller-critics-shouldn-t-go-connecting-the-dots/article_70316aa3-9346-5982-80b2-4663b4bd199e.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/high-school/chesterton/jim-peters-peller-critics-shouldn-t-go-connecting-the-dots/article_70316aa3-9346-5982-80b2-4663b4bd199e.html)

I was going to write something like this on the subject and then the NWI Times ran a column for me :)

That does open things up a little more. Thanks, LAA. I just wasn't sure what the details were going into it, being a real outsider to Chesterton High School basketball. It just seemed a bit odd that so many kids were leaving, and not many here were putting the details in the posts they would make here.

At first glance, it appears that Ryan Fazekas has a respectful, albeit lukewarm, interest in Valpo (at least as of the date of the interview) but is searching for higher-profile programs.  It will be interesting to see what develops.  He'd be a great fit at Valpo.  I'm sensing a Gonzaga-esque team if he were to join the incoming gang. 

It reminds me of the fact that Bobby Knight recruited Damon Bailey when Damon was the same age as Ryan, but there was no question as to where Damon would end up.  We'll see...   

Quote from: atkins on April 20, 2013, 11:49:18 AMAt first glance, it appears that Ryan Fazekas has a respectful, albeit lukewarm, interest in Valpo (at least as of the date of the interview) but is searching for higher-profile programs.

Actually I took away almost the opposite, for a couple reasons.  First of all, a lot of kids are always interested to see who the biggest name schools interested in them are, if not ALL kids.  That doesn't mean you'll go there, but it gives you an idea.  To return to bbtds' extended prom metaphor, you want to know what circles you're operating in.

Second of all, though, he took the time to talk a lot about Valpo to a UM reporter.  That says a lot.  I read many such interview/write-ups, and I don't see that happening a lot.  Most kids are careful to just talk about the school in question.  It's a little like talking about another girlfriend to a second girl's friend.

But again, you're right in that it is a year-old video.  Still, we have to be first on kids like this to have a great chance (like that hilarious video I posted on the Recruiting thread. reposted here because I screwed it up last time).
Mr. Show - Recruiters (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fy878f83Xa4#)

Valpo89....

Dan Palambizio also left the game with 3 minutes to go when his son was removed from the game.  My comment about VU recruiting his son was tongue in cheek.  Gotta disagree with your assessment of CHS having more talent than VHS as VHS won all three games this year.  The game in February was a 2 point game, but VHS had that in hand (8 point lead with 90 seconds before throwing the ball away). 

My assessment of the CHS situation isnt the kids on the floor, but the people watching the game, particularly a few parents, but that is just from what I hear and observe.  The talent at CHS was far over-rated.  Perhaps these four young men (including Teal) will be very good players by their senior years, but as of last year they ran hot and cold.  Sometimes parents should just sit back and enjoy the fact their kids are playing (it is called "playing").

lowposter

Quote from: lowposter on April 21, 2013, 07:40:04 AMGotta disagree with your assessment of CHS having more talent than VHS as VHS won all three games this year.

In his defense, he said "young talent", and though VHS was clearly superior, I don't know that he was wrong when two of those CHS sophomores will get D1 scholarships, at least, whereas it remains to be seen if anyone in the VHS rotation will.

Viking pride forever, still, though.

One VHS already has D1.

If you're talking about Conner TenHove, then maybe, but he's not part of the rotation yet, is he?

I'm pretty sure Mack Mercer was on campus today. I saw Coach Gore showing him the library... or at least a real tall white guy who I assume to be Mercer, could be wrong.

Anyways, somebody was on campus today which is a FACT. I think it was Mercer but don't quote me on that. Anyone know anything else though?

Didn't see who was on campus today, but will look into it. Apparently, PG Nick Rogers (2015) will be visiting Valpo on Wednesday. This is a good week for visits because it is the last full week of classes and coaches want recruits to see the atmosphere with students in attendance and players on campus.

Quote from: valpopal on April 29, 2013, 10:17:25 PM
Didn't see who was on campus today, but will look into it. Apparently, PG Nick Rogers (2015) will be visiting Valpo on Wednesday. This is a good week for visits because it is the last full week of classes and coaches want recruits to see the atmosphere with students in attendance and players on campus.

An amazing story about Nick Rogers:

Pike player almost all the way back after losing fingertips

http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/preps/basketball/story/2012-02-13/Pike-guard-recovers-from-mower-accident/53080548/1 (http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/preps/basketball/story/2012-02-13/Pike-guard-recovers-from-mower-accident/53080548/1)

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on April 17, 2013, 09:37:32 PM

Ryan Fazekas:  6'7" Small Forward, Marquette Catholic H.S.

Offers:  Valparaiso, Illinois-Chicago

Interest:  Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Michigan State, Northwestern, Ohio State, Purdue, Xavier

Very good size for a kid who can play on the perimeter.  Ryan can really shoot the ball, and his size lets him get his shot off over just about anyone.  Over the course of the summer he continued to add other dimensions to his game including improving his ball handling and skills down low.  He also may not be done growing.

Fazekas today has an added offer from Providence.

Quote from: wh on April 29, 2013, 10:45:41 PMAn amazing story about Nick Rogers

Um...I read that article at TVAS (Tanner Vavra Article Speed, ~= 100 words per second) but I got the gist or at least more than I wanted to.

Wow.

Quote from: valpopal on April 30, 2013, 01:38:39 AM

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on April 17, 2013, 09:37:32 PM

Ryan Fazekas:  6'7" Small Forward, Marquette Catholic H.S.

Offers:  Valparaiso, Illinois-Chicago

Interest:  Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Michigan State, Northwestern, Ohio State, Purdue, Xavier

Very good size for a kid who can play on the perimeter.  Ryan can really shoot the ball, and his size lets him get his shot off over just about anyone.  Over the course of the summer he continued to add other dimensions to his game including improving his ball handling and skills down low.  He also may not be done growing.

Fazekas today has an added offer from Providence.

Providence seems to be going after possible Valpo recruits. Apparently, Matt Holba also got an offer from Providence last night as well to go with his one from VU.

Matt Holba:  6'6" Power Forward, Chesterton H.S.

Offers:  Valparaiso

Interest:  Indiana, Michigan, Michigan State, Purdue

Matt is a great athlete who can really jump.  Also has very good length.  I could see him growing some more still and becoming a big time threat on the low block.  Right now he is at his best when running the floor and using his athleticism and ball handling ability to get to the rim.  Nice athletic "4″ man prospect.

From Twitter today:

Matt Holba's father, Tom, said that Valpo was at every game the last two weeks.

Word is that Coach Powell is working on recruiting Aaron Jordan of Plainfield East in Illinois. Jordan will be making an unofficial visit to campus.

It really surprises me that Powell is not being offered another job at a larger school this offseason.  I guess it is still early and can happen, but it seems that he and Bryce are good to go for next season. 

Quote from: valpotx on May 01, 2013, 12:30:56 PM
It really surprises me that Powell is not being offered another job at a larger school this offseason.  I guess it is still early and can happen, but it seems that he and Bryce are good to go for next season. 

Powell has been an asst coach for a total of two years.  I just think its a matter of experience before bigger programs would want to hire him away as an asst coach.

2 years or not, other programs must have seen some of the guys that Valpo is picking up from the Midwest.  Just as in the business world, years of experience don't always equate to knowledge :).

Quote from: valpotx on May 01, 2013, 12:30:56 PMIt really surprises me that Powell is not being offered another job at a larger school this offseason.  I guess it is still early and can happen, but it seems that he and Bryce are good to go for next season. 

YOU FOOL WE NEED TO REVERSE JINX THIS STATEMENT IMMEDIATELY

The Office- Season 4- Michael- Superstitious (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5r-TG8cCeE#ws)

From Kyle Neddenriep of the Indy Star:

Kyle Neddenriep ‏@KyleNeddenriep  34m 

Traders Point guard Nick Rogers (2015) picked up an offer from Valparaiso last night while on unofficial visit.

Impressive Nick Rogers highlight video:

Nicks Rogers Top 2015 PG Highlight Mixtape (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fd0sYi9HS0A#)

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on April 17, 2013, 08:52:54 PMHolba said he consistently talks with the Michigan coaching staff over the phone or through text massaging.

I just noticed this in reviewing my earlier post (to make sure that the upcoming one is consistent).

I did not change an iota.

Simply cut and pasted.

But I'm pretty sure that would not only be a violation of NCAA regulations, but possibly also state and federal law.

Also, ewwww.

Nick Rogers, ladies and gentlemen.
(http://storage1.ihigh.com/users/26234/photos/m3882373.jpg)
6'0", 165 PG from the Naptown (Bretton Woods). 
Plays for Traders Point Christian (Whitestown, IN); originally played at Indianapolis Pike. 
AAU:  Grassroots.

Wait that sounds familiar...how do I know Traders Point?  http://www.ihigh.com/centralindiana/article_153046.html (http://www.ihigh.com/centralindiana/article_153046.html)

QuoteAfter playing the first season with a roster supplemented by seventh- and eighth-graders, the Eagles are now a program that has won back-to-back Indiana Christian School State championships.

yeah, and...?
He played with Milos Kostic.  The dude who left Bishop Noll, transferred to Traders Point, committed to Northwestern, decommitted, lathered, rinsed, repeated...
OK, that's it.  Whatever happened to him, btw?  Look, we're talking about Nick Rogers.
Actually we were talking about Traders Point. 
Ah yes, as in "they were denied entry to the IHSAA because they were thought to be a basketball mill and were surprised about it".
That's where the Palombizio kid is playing next year, right?  noddingslowly.gif

Soph year:  10-2 from games I can track down (lost to LaLumiere).

Freshman year played for Pike JV.  Posts own stats (caveat lector): http://new.berecruited.com/athletes/906512 (http://new.berecruited.com/athletes/906512)
(http://i.usatoday.net/sports/_photos/2012/02/13/Pikes-Rogers-rebounds-from-mower-accident-LI105JLH-x-large.jpg)
Something you should know about him, although it doesn't define him (just his character!):
http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/preps/basketball/story/2012-02-13/Pike-guard-recovers-from-mower-accident/53080548/1 (http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/preps/basketball/story/2012-02-13/Pike-guard-recovers-from-mower-accident/53080548/1)
The conclusion:

QuoteNick would undo it if he could. He should have been paying closer attention that day instead of thinking about the new video game. But it's also part of who he is now.

And he is comfortable with that.

"When I watch ESPN Classic or other shows, these other players always have stories," he said. "This can be my story. If I work hard enough — and I will — I can still get to where I want to go."

It's stories like this that Coach Coffin used to scare us all to death with during Summer School Health and Safety class.  Kudos to the young man for rising above and becoming part of what he calls #teamambidextrous.

Highlights
Nick Rogers Highlight Mixtape (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rND4Y67vC-o#ws)
Clearly a talented kid, although the level of competition is a little suspect.  Makes nice dishes to European big man (cf. 2:54 but there are several), dunks with authority with his left hand (passim).  Interesting-looking shot, although given the above circumstance, no comment (except I'm piqued more by his jump than his hands).  At least it can be said from the looks of this (and every) highlight tape he never ever misses.  Call me old school, but even one "dunk in the layup lane" highlight is one too many for a highlight tape in my book.

I particularly like that he is not afraid to use the glass (cf. 1:48, but esp. the and-one circus at 2:07ff).  Splits defenders well (cf. 3:23), although level of competition caveat applies.  Particularly good at making defenders look stupid when they commit to going to the direction in which he is no longer going.  Block at 2:05 is world-class, and Trey Burke would like you to know that it is not a foul.  Clearly has range, and is good at just pulling up and shooting without telegraphing that he is, in fact, about to do so.

Entertaining to watch.

Somewhat dated stats (as in I'm sure they're even better now):
--36" vertical leap.
--78" wingspan
--195 bench
(http://s3.amazonaws.com/images.berecruited.com/photos/athletes/original/44613962.jpg)
Offers
Kent State; Mississippi; Northern Illinois; Kennesaw St; and now US

Interest per http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/recruiting/player-Nick-Rogers-120821 (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/recruiting/player-Nick-Rogers-120821) and others
Georgetown, IPFW, Lehigh, Loyola (elite camp 2x), Mercer, Mississippi St, Notre Dame, Western Illinois, Wright State

Twitterz:  https://twitter.com/iAm_nick10 (https://twitter.com/iAm_nick10)
Didn't tweet about VU visit, but retweeted someone else's tweet about his offer...although, did the same for Kennesaw St.

Quote from: valpopal on May 01, 2013, 11:50:49 AM
Word is that Coach Powell is working on recruiting Aaron Jordan of Plainfield East in Illinois. Jordan will be making an unofficial visit to campus.

Jordan will visit this weekend.

Quote from: valpopal on May 02, 2013, 11:51:45 AM

Quote from: valpopal on May 01, 2013, 11:50:49 AM
Word is that Coach Powell is working on recruiting Aaron Jordan of Plainfield East in Illinois. Jordan will be making an unofficial visit to campus.

Jordan will visit this weekend.

As valpopal just mentioned regarding a visit by Aaron Jordan, I ran across an article on Illinois Prep Bulls-eye that talks about Aaron Jordan, his upcoming visits, and who is also recruiting him as of now. Sort of ironic that Coach Powell is recruiting him for Valpo, and he is also being recruited as well by the University of Illinois, where Coach Powell played his college ball.

http://ilprepbullseye.com/Jordan_Player_Watch.html (http://ilprepbullseye.com/Jordan_Player_Watch.html)

Aaron Jordan Is Now On The Map After A Great Weekend At Derby City Classic

By Roy & Harv Schmidt
May 1, 2013
10:00 P.M. C.S.T.   

When one glances at the Illinois Celtics 16-Under roster one immediately realizes that the team is stacked with talent, as it sports at least four potential D1 recruits.  However, after watching them last weekend at the Derby City Classic in Louisville we have concluded that no player on the Celtics sports as much up side as 6'4 2015 2-guard Aaron Jordan from Plainfield East High School in Plainfield, IL.

While 6'5 2014 wing K.J. Santos from Geneva High School in Geneva, IL sat out the Derby City Classic with injured ribs and the rest of the team was plagued by inconsistency, Jordan was hands down the Celtics' most consistent player game in and game out.  And after turning in an outstanding weekend, we are completely sold on Jordan's ability.

Jordan is highly athletic and has a long wing span as well as a great motor.  And there is no question that he utilizes all of these attributes to his advantage.  Not only that, but he plays hard from start to finish.

Skill-wise, Jordan has the ability to get to the basket at will due to his considerable speed and strong upper body.  He also flourishes in the open court as the result of his excellent ball handling skills and the fact that he can repeatedly blow by defenders in one-on-one situations.  This greatly explains why Jordan is almost always in attack mode.

In addition to the aforementioned traits, Jordan also has tremendous scoring ability and is his mid-range game is especially effective.  Jordan is also quite capable of converting shots from beyond the 3-point arc although this is the one area where he still needs to show more consistency.

As far as Jordan's recruitment goes, he currently holds scholarship offers from Fairfield, Hampton and Illinois State with Redbirds head coach Dan Muller having offered after watching him in Louisville. Jordan is also planning upcoming campus visits to both Valparaiso and Illinois.  Crusaders assistant coach Roger Powell and Illini Associate Head Coach Dustin Ford both watched every game Jordan played at the Derby City Classic.

There is no question that Jordan has the makings of being a big-time college prospect.  And without meaning to scare those schools who have already offered, should Jordan continue to play the way he has over the course of the last month, we look for his stock to continue to go through the roof.

I sure hope we can get Rogers, not just because he looks like he might be something special... but for the flat top! Next Norris Cole? Wouldn't mind that!

Quote from: classof2014 on May 02, 2013, 12:54:52 PM
I sure hope we can get Rogers, not just because he looks like he might be something special... but for the flat top! Next Norris Cole? Wouldn't mind that!

Dammit you beat me to it.

I believe Nick Rogers is playing AAU with the Eric Gordon Central Stars this year.

Quote from: classof2014 on May 02, 2013, 12:54:52 PMthe flat top

technically a hi-top fade, and the fact that you think Norris Cole where I think "Kid n'Play"!! means that you are like half my age.
(http://www.kingsrowe.com/blog/sites/default/files/imagecache/blog_half_float_right/kid-n-play-fade.jpg)

Quote from: zvillehaze on May 02, 2013, 04:04:41 PMI believe Nick Rogers is playing AAU with the Eric Gordon Central Stars this year.

Although they have not yet updated their 2015 roster, based on his tweet history, it seems you're right--thanks.  One of the top AAU in the state, no?

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on May 02, 2013, 05:08:54 PM
Although they have not yet updated their 2015 roster, based on his tweet history, it seems you're right--thanks.  One of the top AAU in the state, no?

I think AAU rosters are still moving around a bit, but should firm up a bit in May.  The Eric Gordon program is very good, along with Indiana Elite and the Spiece teams (including the Grassroots teams).  I know AAU basketball gets a bad rap nationally, but there are a bunch of good clubs and coaches involved with Indiana-based programs that do a very good job, IMO.

In April, Nick was playing with Michael Benkert, Brennan Gillis, Ryan Welage and Max Kurkowski(2015).  Eron Gordon (2016) may play with them occasionally, but he's been playing up 2 years with the 2014 team early on.  I talked to someone today who's been to several events so far, but didn't ask about Rogers ... if I get any information, I'll pass it along.

Quote from: zvillehaze on May 02, 2013, 10:14:53 PMif I get any information, I'll pass it along.

thanks!  seems like a really great kid.

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on May 02, 2013, 05:08:54 PM

Quote from: classof2014 on May 02, 2013, 12:54:52 PMthe flat top

technically a hi-top fade, and the fact that you think Norris Cole where I think "Kid n'Play"!! means that you are like half my age. (http://www.kingsrowe.com/blog/sites/default/files/imagecache/blog_half_float_right/kid-n-play-fade.jpg)

Quote from: zvillehaze on May 02, 2013, 04:04:41 PMI believe Nick Rogers is playing AAU with the Eric Gordon Central Stars this year.

Although they have not yet updated their 2015 roster, based on his tweet history, it seems you're right--thanks.  One of the top AAU in the state, no?

Speaking of flat tops, what about Rocky's opponent, played by Dolph Lundgren.


(http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee136/suwarnaadi/hair/Dolph-Lundgren-militaryflattop.jpg)

Nick Rogers will be at Fort Wayne for the Spiece Run-N-Slam tournament this weekend.  Looks like a pretty good field.  http://blogs.indystar.com/recruitingcentral/archives/3513 (http://blogs.indystar.com/recruitingcentral/archives/3513)

We have another one on the table: Bryce apparently extended an offer to Aaron Jordan during his visit to campus this afternoon.

Elevated to varsity at the end of his freshman year (rode bench, but for a 27-2 team that lost in the sectional semi--which, remember Illinois:sectional::Indiana:regional). 

This year (helps that they graduated 9), as a sophomore--that's right, we're now recruiting/offering kids who may or may not be able to drive themselves to their visit these days--he led Plainfield E in scoring and more impressively, was named a team captain as a sophomore!  Was running the point at first, then moved to off guard.
Q&A (http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/sports/17232821-419/q-and-a-with-aaron-jordan-plainfield-east-basketball.html)  Team was only 11-15, though, losing to Batavia 61-52 in the regional quarterfinal.

Stats:  15.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.5 spg. 47% FG, area-best 49.6% 3 PT (59-of-119), 79.8% FTs (87-of-109).
Kid. Is. A. SHOOTER.

Awards:  All-Area Herald Times, Voyager Media All-Area 2nd team, All-Southwest Prairie, IBCA All-State special mention, all-St. Charles East Thanksgiving Tournament, all-Pekin Holiday Tournament, offensive and team MVP, captain as a sophomore


(http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/photos/galleries/18630103-417/herald-news-2012-13-all-area-boys-basketball-team.htmlherald-news-2012-13-all-area-boys-basketball-team%5B/url)
Coach's take (ibid):

QuoteBranden Adkins:  "Aaron is a fantastic scorer. Every night he had to face our opponents' best defender. Many times teams would adjust their strategies just to try to stop him. He is only reaching the beginning of his potential. His stock is rising. He is a great player."

Elsewhere:

Quote"Aaron did some tremendous things for us," East coach Branden Adkins said. "For only being a sophomore he played as a veteran. He stepped up to hit big and often game winning shots. He often saw opponents' best defender or a fury of double teams. He learned to play within his teammates and get them the ball as teams concentrated heavily on him. We are excited for the future for Aaron at not only Plainfield East but also beyond."

http://www.buglenewspapers.com/ (http://www.buglenewspapers.com/bolingbrook/sports/article_9b81148e-9599-11e2-af6d-001a4bcf6878.html)

Rival coach's take (Plainfield South), after he dropped 18 on them in a 66-49 playoff win:

Quote"That's the best I've seen Aaron play within their system, and it showed," South coach Tim Boe said. "He didn't try to force it, was aggressive when he needed to be and found his teammates when they were open."

last win of their season
(http://www.buglenewspapers.com/enterprise/sports/article_24628abc-7fa1-11e2-a78b-0019bb30f31a.html)

Scouts' takes (hot off the press, as above):

Quoteno player on the Celtics sports as much up side...Jordan was hands down the Celtics' most consistent player game in and game out.  And after turning in an outstanding weekend, we are completely sold on Jordan's ability.

Jordan is highly athletic and has a long wing span as well as a great motor.  And there is no question that he utilizes all of these attributes to his advantage.  Not only that, but he plays hard from start to finish.

Skill-wise, Jordan has the ability to get to the basket at will due to his considerable speed and strong upper body.  He also flourishes in the open court as the result of his excellent ball handling skills and the fact that he can repeatedly blow by defenders in one-on-one situations.  This greatly explains why Jordan is almost always in attack mode.

In addition to the aforementioned traits, Jordan also has tremendous scoring ability and is his mid-range game is especially effective.  Jordan is also quite capable of converting shots from beyond the 3-point arc although this is the one area where he still needs to show more consistency. [seriously people did you SEE HIS FREAKING STATS? also YOUR PROSE needs to show more consistency!!1!]... There is no question that Jordan has the makings of being a big-time college prospect.  And without meaning to scare those schools who have already offered, should Jordan continue to play the way he has over the course of the last month, we look for his stock to continue to go through the roof.

http://ilprepbullseye.com/ (http://ilprepbullseye.com/Jordan_Player_Watch.html) Luckily that last bit doesn't include us because WE JUST OFFERED nyah nyah.

Oh, Offers, you say?
Hampton, Fairfield, and two schools that don't sound like motels
(Illinois State and us, unless we become VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY BROUGHT TO YOU BY CARLTON LODGE).
FWIW, 247 lists his interest in all those as "cool", but not in the good way.
247 sportspage (http://247sports.com/Player/Aaron-Jordan-31582)

Other interest?
Cal Poly, DePaul, Northwestern and

Quote"I've been on visits or open gyms with the following schools: Cal Poly, Creighton, Northern Iowa, DePaul, Purdue, UIC, San Diego St, and now Hampton."

chicago hoopz (http://chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-06-30-23-44-03/136-aaron-jordan-nets-hampton-offer)

Updates on his team and recruiting ca. mid December 2012 in this video:
Aaron Jordan Updates Recruiting (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPBh8hbHJx8#ws)  What he's looking for in a school: "education and basketball...place that feels like home"


Highlights: First, check out this sweet and-one off a finger roll.  Of course, it's easier when the defense stands there like the 1919 White Sox.  Embed fail, but click through anyway for Defensive Fail Hilarity:
I WILL DRIVE TO THE HOOP BUT YOU ALL MUST STAND STILL AND WATCH (http://www.highschoolcube.com/highlight/aaron-jordan-picks-up-the-and--27233)

Distractingly edited montage starts out with comical high school jump-ball hijinx. EDIT:  middle school? makes more sense...
Aaron Jordan Montage (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMSR85gjmXY#)
Continues with pull-up 3s, penetrating and then scurrying back to the 3 point line, which is only ok because he makes it.  Then again, if I shot 50% on 3s, why would you take anything other than a point-blank layup?  GAME THEORY'd.  Actually, then there are a couple sweet drive and finishes.  Then he shoots alone at Illinois State.  Don't do that, young man.  Look around...no one's there!  And then the kid shows him shooting a FT in slo mo.  From the 37th row.  Hey, don't ask me.  I just put what I find.  It gets better--then we graduate to technical foul shots, then ones where there are actually people lined up (see the progression?  SCORSESE i tell you).

But the best is for last.  1:51ff appears to be some kind of buzzer beater, and it's made possible by some very bold and confident moves.  Pretty awesome.

Ironically his freshman year highlights are eerily similar, except no one in the seats at the JV games:  opening tip hilarity, 3 point shots, etc.: (EDIT:  this is because it's the same footage!  whoops :))
MaxPreps (http://www.maxpreps.com/local/team/videos.aspx?schoolid=c4d434ff-0d7d-418d-9aa4-d5d01b27904c&ssid=5a7da7fd-f045-44f8-b28d-41fb9004c7cf&videoid=c17e37e4-ccda-4afa-83ce-027c9b9f44d5)

After that...slim.  I got 2 7th grade highlights if you want them!  (Of course you do.) Uploaded by a parent or relative:
Aaron Jordan Basketball Clips (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MplojeP-MMg#ws)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6N8tRda_XA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6N8tRda_XA) (another embed fail!)
Hey, it's only 8 minutes of your life.  And at least the first highlight of the first one shows how persistent he is. :)


So...after us he's headed to Illinois.  Not the State either.  The real one.  Whose fans have no problem flaunting their ignorance in public: oh the horror that is scout message boards (http://mbd.scout.com/mb.aspx?S=169&F=2616&T=11512717&P=1)

Quoteillininutt1:  This may be that schools first "star" in hoops!!  Before this kid came along....98% of the kids at that school did not know if a basketball was filled with air or rags!

wizzie: That's not even remotely true. Just because you don't know much about a high school, doesn't mean nothing happened.

Again, I post the link so you don't think I'm making it up or adulterating it in any way.  Hey, what else do they have to do--talk about football?  :lol: Oh, pot-kettle you say?  TOO BAD ILLINI I'M A MICHIGAN MAN

Elsewhere an Illini fan gets nostalgic:
http://www.illinoisloyalty.com/ (http://www.illinoisloyalty.com/Forums/showthread.php?t=19830&page=126)

QuoteGlad I read that. I had no idea Roger Powell was an assistant for Valpo.

Man, I hope he does well there and eventually finds his way back to the Illini as an assistant.

HEY YOU YOU SHUT YOUR NO GOOD FILTHY PIE HOLE RIGHT NOW oh wait well i guess i agree with the protasis of that statement after all thank you

If things don't work out in BB: Once hit a golf ball 300 yards.  In 7th grade.
same Q&A article (http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/sports/17232821-419/q-and-a-with-aaron-jordan-plainfield-east-basketball.html)

Refreshing: Appears not to have the Twitterz. Aaron Jordan Twitter: OnMyGrind_22 (https://twitter.com/OnMyGrind_22)

BONUS:  OPPOSITE NAME IS OPPOSITE DAY
(http://i39.tinypic.com/2a9wu9e.png)(http://i44.tinypic.com/33ne29v.jpg)

Player A:  37.1% FG / 34.5% 3PT (OK, it's Aaron, Jordan)
Player Z:  47.1% FG / 49.6% 3PT (OK, it's Aaron Jordan)

Well, it's only fitting that since UMW's Jordan Aaron has the opposite name, that he also has the opposite shooting ability...

As always, great stuff from LaPorteAveApostle!  :thumbsup:


However, one correction on your final comment: "Refreshing: Appears not to have the Twitterz." Jordan's twitter handle seems to be "OnMyGrind_22"

Thank you, my friend!

As to the twitter handle...well, that's decidedly NOT refreshing :)

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on May 03, 2013, 08:57:37 PM
As to the twitter handle...well, that's decidedly NOT refreshing :)

Onmygrind_22... Clearly a devoted skateboarder.

Laporte....you didnt mention anything about Aaron's 4.71 GPA (yes 4) That's what I'm most proud of.

"Laporte....you didnt mention anything about Aaron's 4.71 GPA (yes 4) That's what I'm most proud of."

Yes, deserves 4 of these: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

"What he's looking for in a school: 'education and basketball...place that feels like home'"

I think he just described VU.  :)

Quote from: valpopal on May 03, 2013, 06:03:10 PM
We have another one on the table: Bryce apparently extended an offer to Aaron Jordan during his visit to campus this afternoon.

Ah - OK.  I wasn't sure just from the photo, but it seemed plausible.  I think he was with (presumably) his mom and dad having lunch in the union.  First with Roger, then Roger seemed to trade places with Jake and Bryce (and... David Albers dropped by too?).

His dad, in fact, was the most memorable of the group!  Seemed like they were having a good time.

I hope you enjoyed your time at Valpo, and that your son joins us for a longer stay!

Quote from: Aaronsdad on May 06, 2013, 11:35:31 AMLaporte....you didnt mention anything about Aaron's 4.71 GPA (yes 4) That's what I'm most proud of.

Wow!  That...that is amazing.

I would have definitely put that if I could have found it, but if I could have that would have said some sketchy things about me and hacking into public school networks :)

It also says a lot about YOU that that is what YOU are most proud of.  A lot of dads know their son's PPG more easily than their GPA.  So thanks!

Please let me know if there's anything else either incorrect or omitted!

Since you asked ;D  The footage in the montage begins with his middle school play in the 7th grade (not high school jump ball) up to the dunk before the ISU shooting clips.

You did a good job of searching. Profiles and Videos are on the team site illinoiscelticsbasketball

Top Three Performers At Bill Hensley Memorial Run 'n Slam From Amongst Illinois-Based PlayersBy Roy & Harv Schmidt

May 6, 2013

9:00 A.M. CST

The Bill Hensley Memorial Run 'n Slam in Fort Wayne, IN is always one of our favorite events to cover during the spring because it is one of the few places where virtually all of the top Illinois-based travel teams play under the same roof.  And because of that, there is no question that there was a wealth of individual talent on display.

When everything was over, there were three players from the Land Of Lincoln whose performances overshadowed everybody else.  Therefore without any further adieu, let's take a closer look at the top three performers from this past weekend.

1) Josh Cunningham          6'7   2014   WF   Chicago (Morgan Park)   Mac Irvin Fire 17-U

Cunningham is often the forgotten man when it comes to talking about the top wings in Illinois from the talented 2014 class.  But after watching him dominate throughout the weekend at Spiece that should no longer be the case.  With the Mac Irvin Fire 17-U squad playing without both Jahlil Okafor and Cliff Alexander and having a total of only eight players, Cunningham put the team on his back in every game.  His most outstanding effort came in a 2nd round gold division tournament matchup versus Team NLP.  In that game Cunningham was unstoppable, scoring 32 points and shooting a whopping 13-13 from the floor.

Cunningham has been projected by many as a 4 because he has spent the majority of his time playing on the interior for his high school team.  However, we have no doubt that Cunningham can be a dynamite 3 at the college level.  That is because he has proven that he can play away from the basket as he can face up and knock down shots from 3-point land in addition to consistently going to war inside.  Cunningham did exactly that at the Run 'N Slam.  At the present time Cunningham holds scholarship offers from DePaul, Oklahoma, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Bradley, Northern Illinois and UMass.  Make no mistake about it--Cunningham is a high major recruit all the way and we have a feeling that he could end up being one that has some college coaches ultimately asking, "why did we end up passing on this guy?"

2) Roosevelt Smart          6'3   2015   2G   Palatine (H.S.)   Illinois Wolves 16-U

We have said it before but it bears repeating--of all the talented guards on the Illinois Wolves 16-Under team, Smart is the one who sports the most upside.  This was plainly evident at Run 'n Slam.  Smart was nothing short of phenomenal in a pool play contest versus the West Michigan Lakers, winding up with 32 points in a 70-45 pasting.  He was instrumental in leading the Wolves to the championship game in the 16U silver division.  Smart has an extremely high motor which he utilizes every opportunity he gets.  As a result, he finishes on the break and scores at will in transition.  But that's not all--Smart has also shown that he can consistently hit pullup jumpers either set or off the dribble as he has a sweet looking shot and a smooth, quick release.  Defensively Smart covers considerable ground due to his long wing span.  There is undoubtedly a lot to like which is why we believe it is only inevitable that the high majors will ultimately come calling.

3) Aaron Jordan          6'4   2015   2G   Plainfield (East)   Illinois Celtics 16-U

Jordan picked up right where he left off after turning in an outstanding performance a week ago at the Derby City Classic in Louisville.  In fact he was spectacular when we watched him in a first round 16U gold division contest versus Playground Elite.  Jordan turned in a double-double in that contest, finishing with 21 points and 10 rebounds.  We have already sung Jordan's praises (ilprepbullseye.com/Jordan_Player_Watch) but actually there is even more that needs to be said.  That is because Jordan is an even better perimeter shooter than we previously gave him credit for.  He actually shoots at an extremely high percentage (over 50 percent 3-pointers this past high school season) and simply does not take bad shots.  Combine that with his terrific instincts around the basket and ability to make his teammates better and you have a player who we believe currently ranks among the top five in Illinois from the 2015 class.  In addition to the schools that we have previously mentioned being involved with Jordan recruiting-wise, DePaul and Northwestern are also now showing a high level of interest.

***********************************************************************************************

Young Mr. Jordan seems like a missing link to a major run in the NCAAs.  A stellar point/2 guard who can do it all.  Valpo is the perfect fit given his desire for a family like environment, talented teammates and a fantastic place to pursue high level academics.  I'd love to see another player with his personal and player characteristics.

Quote from: vu72 on May 06, 2013, 08:27:06 PM
Young Mr. Jordan seems like a missing link to a major run in the NCAAs.  A stellar point/2 guard who can do it all.  Valpo is the perfect fit given his desire for a family like environment, talented teammates and a fantastic place to pursue high level academics.  I'd love to see another player with his personal and player characteristics.

In addition, I can't imagine there are many better head coaches to work with to develop a guard's skills than Bryce Drew.

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on May 03, 2013, 08:28:49 PM
IllPrepBullsEye:  Jordan is also quite capable of converting shots from beyond the 3-point arc although this is the one area where he still needs to show more consistency.
[me:  seriously people did you SEE HIS FREAKING STATS? also YOUR PROSE needs to show more consistency!!1!]

Quote from: Aaronsdad on May 06, 2013, 07:53:38 PM
IllPrepBullsEye: Jordan is an even better perimeter shooter than we previously gave him credit for.  He actually shoots at an extremely high percentage (over 50 percent 3-pointers this past high school season)

theory A) they read my report
theory B) they saw the freaking stats (and still reported them wrong)
theory C) they simply WATCHED THE KID SHOOT (brilliant i know how hard was that?) !!!

To the Jordans, Happy Birthday!  I can't imagine too many better birthday presents than a college scholarship valued in the low six figures :)

Did you let him drive home? :D

Jordan talks about his visit to Illinois:

http://chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/1317-aaron-jordan-talks-illini-visit (http://chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/1317-aaron-jordan-talks-illini-visit)

Another update on Aaron Jordan from chicagohoops.com dated today, 5-9-13. No mention of Aaron's Valpo visit.

http://chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/insider2/1324-red-hot-aaron-jordan-adds-another-offer (http://chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/insider2/1324-red-hot-aaron-jordan-adds-another-offer)

Red-Hot Aaron Jordan Adds Another Offer
Published on Thursday, 09 May 2013 11:22 Written by Chicago Hoops

Class of 2015 Plainfield East star Aaron Jordan of the Illinois Celtics has now added a scholarship offer from Creighton.

Jordan, a 6'4 shooting guard, is one of the top prospects in the 2015 class.  He is coming off of a sophomore season which saw him average better than 15 points per game, and is a prospect who continues to see his recruiting stock skyrocket.

Jordan also holds offers from Fairfield, Hampton and Illinois State.  The University of Illinois is showing strong interest in Jordan, who took an unofficial visit to the Illinois campus earlier this week.

Seriously?  Hampton and Fairfield think they have a chance?  I know that sometimes you make an offer just to make an offer, but they have a 0% chance at getting this guy

Quote from: valpotx on May 09, 2013, 01:06:36 PMHampton and Fairfield think they have a chance?

you could say they think they have an inn with him...

Touche!

Quote from: valpotx on May 09, 2013, 01:06:36 PM
Seriously?  Hampton and Fairfield think they have a chance?  I know that sometimes you make an offer just to make an offer, but they have a 0% chance at getting this guy

They were, at least, inn first.  And we were inn relatively early.  I suppose you never _know_ if the big guys are going to jump in the pool.  And, even if they do, sometimes the kids do seem to value those who got behind them early.

There's motelling where you might take this next.

Agibson, you are correct .....Schools that were "INN" early get special consideration..and it certainly doesnt hurt to have a former NBA PLAYER and legacy as a Head Coach.

Quote from: Aaronsdad on May 10, 2013, 09:53:29 AMSchools that were "INN" early get special consideration

Stay three years, get the fourth free? :)

Sorry, I just thought that was Expediant.

Well, looks like Palombizio will be staying in Porter County after all:

http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/20422220-556/palombizio-staying-at-chesterton-after-all.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/20422220-556/palombizio-staying-at-chesterton-after-all.html)

his dad must be a piece of work.

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on May 29, 2013, 08:08:59 PM
Well, looks like Palombizio will be staying in Porter County after all:

http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/20422220-556/palombizio-staying-at-chesterton-after-all.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/20422220-556/palombizio-staying-at-chesterton-after-all.html)

his dad must be a piece of work.

To correct one item in the posttrib story, Traders Point is in Whitestown, just off the Zionsville exit on I-65 on the northwest side of Indy.  It may or may not matter, but Traders Point is also the home of the Champions Academy that offers individual skills development.  Champions founder and main instructor Ed Schilling is headed to UCLA to join Alford's staff, so that move may have had something to do with the change of heart.  Just speculation on my part.

sounds more like Traitor's Point ;)

wasn't Ed Schilling at Park Tudor, though?

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on May 29, 2013, 08:37:35 PMwasn't Ed Schilling at Park Tudor, though?

Yes he was:

http://www.uclabruins.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/ed_schilling_844829.html (http://www.uclabruins.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/ed_schilling_844829.html)

That's what I thought.

Not that they are mutually exclusive, necessarily.

Quote from: covufan on May 30, 2013, 06:27:00 PM

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on May 29, 2013, 08:37:35 PMwasn't Ed Schilling at Park Tudor, though?

Yes he was:

http://www.uclabruins.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/ed_schilling_844829.html (http://www.uclabruins.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/ed_schilling_844829.html)

http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20130410/SPORTS/304100021/Kyle%20Cox%20Park%20Tudor%20Basketball (http://www.thestarpress.com/article/20130410/SPORTS/304100021/Kyle%20Cox%20Park%20Tudor%20Basketball)

Park Tudor's new head basketball coach is Kyle Cox.

As I

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on May 29, 2013, 08:08:59 PM
Well, looks like Palombizio will be staying in Porter County after all:

http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/20422220-556/palombizio-staying-at-chesterton-after-all.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/20422220-556/palombizio-staying-at-chesterton-after-all.html)

his dad must be a piece of work.

As I recall, His Dad's Dad was also a piece of work.

Valpo has apparently expressed interest in Obediah Church of the Peoria Irish (same AAU squad that Alec Peters was on).

Quote2015 F 6'7 Obediah Church has heard from Bradley, UIC, Evansville, UWGB, & Valpo so far!

Peoria Irish Tweet (https://twitter.com/PeoriaIrish/status/345958438750273537)

That's pretty cool, but I bet he signs with Calvin or Grace :)

Per Scott Burgess of chicagohoops.com this morning, Valpo along with other schools have expressed interest in Palatine 2015 shooting guard Roosevelt Smart. Smart recently took unofficial visits to Creighton and Xavier as well. Several high major programs also made contact with Smart on the first day of direct contact with 2015 recruits.   

http://chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/1496-roosevelt-smart-talks-weekend-visits (http://chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/1496-roosevelt-smart-talks-weekend-visits)

Roosevelt Smart Talks Weekend Visits

Published on Monday, 17 June 2013
Written by Scott Burgess

Palatine 2015 shooting guard Roosevelt Smart is one of the more talented prospects in his class in Illinois.  He is an explosive track athlete that is starting to refine his game.  Smart is good attacking the hoop and is improving his jumper.  He efficiently changes the games on both ends of the floor.  The rising junior ranks as a top 10 prospect in the state in 2015.

Over the last week he took a pair of unofficial visits to Creighton and Xavier.  He first broke down the Creighton visit.

"Creighton was great!  I loved the campus.  Everything is right there so you don't have to go very far and I got a chance to meet with the team and all of them are cool especially Doug (McDermott)."

What did he like about their coaching staff?

"How they welcome you with open arms.  You can talk to each and every coach about anything whether it is about basketball, school, or life in general."

Smart also discussed what he did on his visit to Xavier on Saturday.

"The coaches were talking about how the games were always sold out no matter who Xavier was playing.  Also we talked about how Xavier is like the main school for sports and there are no professional teams.  We also talked about how it's a small school and a great learning environment for students because it's about 30 students in one class room instead of 200+ in some schools."

He told us what he liked about their program and staff.

"I like the history of their program from them making it to the NCAA tournament to how they produce a good amount of pro players.  With the coaches they are honest to you.  They'll tell you if you're doing a good or bad job and if you're doing a bad job they'll help you fix it to make you a better player."

Some of the other schools Smart heard from on the first day of direct contact with 2015 recruits included Kansas, Indiana, Valpo, West Virginia, Minnesota, Georgetown, Wisconsin, and Purdue.

Quote from: vufan75 on June 17, 2013, 11:24:57 AMSome of the other schools Smart heard from on the first day of direct contact with 2015 recruits included Kansas, Indiana, Valpo, West Virginia, Minnesota, Georgetown, Wisconsin, and Purdue.
 

This is quite a mix of schools, including Creighton and Xavier. It will be interesting to track his progress, and what schools get taken off this list over the next year and a half.

Quote from: valporun on June 19, 2013, 10:34:07 AM

Quote from: vufan75 on June 17, 2013, 11:24:57 AMSome of the other schools Smart heard from on the first day of direct contact with 2015 recruits included Kansas, Indiana, Valpo, West Virginia, Minnesota, Georgetown, Wisconsin, and Purdue.

This is quite a mix of schools, including Creighton and Xavier. It will be interesting to track his progress, and what schools get taken off this list over the next year and a half.

The quote makes it sound as if there were other schools he heard from...glad Valpo was mentioned in the IU-KU-GTOWN etc group and not the "others not mentioned" group.  I'll take that as a compliment for our program, whether it be from Smart's comments or the comment of the author.

A 6' 5" 200 lbs SF from the Bowman Academy in Gary, Davon Dillard has received an offer from Valpo yesterday. He also has offers from Northern Illinois and Purdue.

Quote from: classof2014 on June 30, 2013, 08:31:43 AM
A 6' 5" 200 lbs SF from the Bowman Academy in Gary, Davon Dillard has received an offer from Valpo yesterday. He also has offers from Northern Illinois and Purdue.

Nice article on Davon at the beginning of last season:

http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/high-school/boys-basketball/bowman-s-dillard-ready-to-take-next-step-to-state/article_8ed5f913-0e0f-5b4e-b428-c1ceff3e8204.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/sports/high-school/boys-basketball/bowman-s-dillard-ready-to-take-next-step-to-state/article_8ed5f913-0e0f-5b4e-b428-c1ceff3e8204.html)

Per a twitter post by Alex Kline of RecruitScoop, Valpo will have 2015 PF Myles Carter in for an unofficial visit. He plays his AAU ball for Chicago Meanstreets. I would guess this latest Illinois recruiting target is being worked on by Coach Powell based on his Illinois recruiting connections. Will look for info on this recruit and post what I can find.

http://247sports.com/Player/Myles-Carter-31588 (http://247sports.com/Player/Myles-Carter-31588)

http://chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/1019-6-8-myles-carter-talks-game-recruiting (http://chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/1019-6-8-myles-carter-talks-game-recruiting)

New articles on Fazekas:

http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/21402942-556/basketball-marquettes-ryan-fazekas-shows-perimeter-skills-at-underclassmen-showcase.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/21402942-556/basketball-marquettes-ryan-fazekas-shows-perimeter-skills-at-underclassmen-showcase.html)

http://blogs.indystar.com/recruitingcentral/archives/3923 (http://blogs.indystar.com/recruitingcentral/archives/3923)

Meh:  Chris Palombizio to Western Michigan
http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/21439254-556/boys-basketball-chris-palombizio-commits-to-wmu.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/21439254-556/boys-basketball-chris-palombizio-commits-to-wmu.html)

Money quote:  "I always wanted to play in the MAC."

I know you guys think I make up a lot of stuff to be funny, but I sure am not making THAT up.

#MACtion

Ryan Fazekas from Michigan City and the class of 2015 tweeted he received his first Big 10 offer from Northwestern. I remember Valpo was the first D1 scholarship offer for this young man going back I think at least a year ago. Not sure exactly when Valpo's offer was made. Hope Valpo's offer being first carries some weight with Ryan when he is making his college decision. Hopefully he will want to play his college ball near his hometown. Anyone know, is his recruiting blowing up beyond our reach?

Carlos Anderson, 6'4" 215 lb. shooting guard from Alton IL, has a visit to Valpo scheduled for Sept. 28.

Quote from: valpopal on August 17, 2013, 05:42:48 PM
Carlos Anderson, 6'4" 215 lb. shooting guard from Alton IL, has a visit to Valpo scheduled for Sept. 28.

Shoot, I'll be there before Carlos is.

I'm coming up to knock down the fence between Brown Field and the "old tennis courts" parking lot. If I tie a chain to my Ford F150 and pull how many times will it take before the whole fence comes down?

Who wants to help me dig out ground for the track. I figure once we start they can't help but finish.   ;)

Don't hold your breath on Aaron Jordan (2015), who has an offer from Valpo. He has now received an offer from Indiana to go with his offers from Illinois, Wisconsin, Butler, Xavier, and others.

Quote from: valpopal on August 17, 2013, 05:42:48 PM
Carlos Anderson, 6'4" 215 lb. shooting guard from Alton IL, has a visit to Valpo scheduled for Sept. 28.

Hey, Carlos Anderson will be in Valpo on Homecoming. I almost forgot about that.  ;)

Quote from: valpopal on September 19, 2013, 05:23:10 PM
Don't hold your breath on Aaron Jordan (2015), who has an offer from Valpo. He has now received an offer from Indiana to go with his offers from Illinois, Wisconsin, Butler, Xavier, and others.

Let us not forget about Chicago State as well.  :lol:

Quote from: bbtds on September 19, 2013, 06:52:19 PM

Quote from: valpopal on August 17, 2013, 05:42:48 PMCarlos Anderson, 6'4" 215 lb. shooting guard from Alton IL, has a visit to Valpo scheduled for Sept. 28.

Hey, Carlos Anderson will be in Valpo on Homecoming. I almost forgot about that.  ;)

As well as the weekend of Beerfest. Wait we're not an SEC football school.

Quote from: bbtds on September 19, 2013, 06:52:19 PM

Quote from: valpopal on August 17, 2013, 05:42:48 PM
Carlos Anderson, 6'4" 215 lb. shooting guard from Alton IL, has a visit to Valpo scheduled for Sept. 28.

Hey, Carlos Anderson will be in Valpo on Homecoming. I almost forgot about that.  ;)

I was wondering if the visit by Valpo recruit Carlos Anderson happened over Homecoming weekend, and if anyone (perhaps Valpopal?) had any feedback or news as to how the visit went?

According to Roy and Harv Schmidt of Illinois Prep Bulls-eye in an article from today, Valpo is hosting an unofficial visit from a class of 2015 recruit this weekend. Julian Torres, a 6-8 PF out of Bolingbrook High School is the recruit visiting.

http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html (http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html)

Quote from: vufan75 on October 18, 2013, 03:51:37 PM
According to Roy and Harv Schmidt of Illinois Prep Bulls-eye in an article from today, Valpo is hosting an unofficial visit from a class of 2015 recruit this weekend. Julian Torres, a 6-8 PF out of Bolingbrook High School is the recruit visiting.

http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html (http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html)

At 6-8 he must still be developing.  He doesn't have Valpo listed on verbal commits:

http://verbalcommits.com/players/julian-torres (http://verbalcommits.com/players/julian-torres)

but if he develops some skills over the next 12 months, this could be a diamond in the rough.

Quote from: vufan75 on October 18, 2013, 03:51:37 PM
According to Roy and Harv Schmidt of Illinois Prep Bulls-eye in an article from today, Valpo is hosting an unofficial visit from a class of 2015 recruit this weekend. Julian Torres, a 6-8 PF out of Bolingbrook High School is the recruit visiting.

http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html (http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html)

The article is not current.  ;)

Quote from: wh on October 18, 2013, 05:27:09 PM

Quote from: vufan75 on October 18, 2013, 03:51:37 PM
According to Roy and Harv Schmidt of Illinois Prep Bulls-eye in an article from today, Valpo is hosting an unofficial visit from a class of 2015 recruit this weekend. Julian Torres, a 6-8 PF out of Bolingbrook High School is the recruit visiting.

http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html (http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html)

The article is not current.  ;)

Not only not current, but clairvoyant!  ;)

Valpo offered center Seth Adelsperger today. He is currently listed as 6'11" and is from Peru IN.

I'm guessing he's still growing. Since I've seen him listed at 6'8, 6'9, 6'10, and 6'11. I can tell you from seeing him on campus he's definitely 6'11. Wouldn't shock me if he breaches the 7 foot mark since he is only a junior and might have some more growing left in him.

From a few videos I've seen he seems to move pretty well. He did look pretty short as if you consider 6' 8" being short but that was from his sophomore season and I would he has grown quite a bit since then. Nice to see an offer on the board to a center.

Would be good to replace some of the height we will be losing!

Quote from: vufan75 on October 18, 2013, 03:51:37 PM
According to Roy and Harv Schmidt of Illinois Prep Bulls-eye in an article from today, Valpo is hosting an unofficial visit from a class of 2015 recruit this weekend. Julian Torres, a 6-8 PF out of Bolingbrook High School is the recruit visiting.

http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html (http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html)

The article date (which was originally wrong) as posted on Illinois Prep Bulls-eye has been corrected, so thought I'd re-post the same article with the corrected date. Hopefully the visit this past weekend went well.

http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html (http://ilprepbullseye.com/Oct_18_Visitors.html)

Quote from: classof2014 on October 22, 2013, 12:30:41 AM
I'm guessing he's still growing. Since I've seen him listed at 6'8, 6'9, 6'10, and 6'11. I can tell you from seeing him on campus he's definitely 6'11. Wouldn't shock me if he breaches the 7 foot mark since he is only a junior and might have some more growing left in him.

From a few videos I've seen he seems to move pretty well. He did look pretty short as if you consider 6' 8" being short but that was from his sophomore season and I would he has grown quite a bit since then. Nice to see an offer on the board to a center.

Verbal Commits has him at 6'8" and 225 pounds.  Good size!

So far, we're only competing with Indiana State:

http://verbalcommits.com/players/seth-adelsperger (http://verbalcommits.com/players/seth-adelsperger)

Seth Adelsperger talks about what kind of school he is looking to attend:

Peru High School junior Seth Adelsperger (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aojw11ghn60#ws)

Devin Cannady, 6' 170 lbs guard from Mishawaka was on campus today receiving a visit. Has offers from Toledo, Central Michigan, Northern Illinois, and IUPUI so far.

Quote from: classof2014 on October 25, 2013, 12:44:18 PM
Devin Cannady, 6' 170 lbs guard from Mishawaka was on campus today receiving a visit. Has offers from Toledo, Central Michigan, Northern Illinois, and IUPUI so far.

Cannady received a scholarship offer while he was here.

Quote from: valpopal on October 25, 2013, 05:37:13 PM

Quote from: classof2014 on October 25, 2013, 12:44:18 PM
Devin Cannady, 6' 170 lbs guard from Mishawaka was on campus today receiving a visit. Has offers from Toledo, Central Michigan, Northern Illinois, and IUPUI so far.

Cannady received a scholarship offer while he was here.

Cannady's twitter comment:

Devin Cannady ‏@devin_cannady3 10h
Great visit today!
Thankful and Blessed for Coach Bryce Drew and the coaching staff for offering me a full ride scholarship.

A 2-sport star:

http://www.radiomichiana.com/wsbtam/wsbt-outstanding-studentathlete-devin-cannady-20130829,0,6736446.story (http://www.radiomichiana.com/wsbtam/wsbt-outstanding-studentathlete-devin-cannady-20130829,0,6736446.story)

Reports are that Ryan Fazekas (2015) of Michigan City Marquette has apparently committed to Providence. Valpo was the first to offer him a scholarship. Sorry to see him get away, and I'm surprised by such an early commitment, especially to Providence.

he just seems like a Catholic school kid (which I'm ultimately fine with).

Aren't they in the New Big East?

That is surprising that he chose Providence, except that he would be playing against some really good competition in the Big East, with some of the teams fairly close to home. 

Yep.  PC is in the heart of Providence, RI.  It is one of the most attractive little cities in New England.  PC plays all their games in the Dunk (Dunkin Donuts Center) that has 12,000 seats.  The campus is somewhat less than Valpo's (very crowded). Up the hill is Brwon University --gorgeous Ivy League.  Being in the NBE is definitely DEE ONE.

Just thought I'd note that I saw big man recruit Seth Adelsperger at the Murray State game. I am pleased he got to see a good game in which freshmen got plenty of playing time, the crowd was energized, especially the student section, and Valpo won.

Aaron Jordan has committed to Illinois.

This article suggests we can forget about Davon Dillard: http://www.indystar.com/story/recruiting-central/2014/01/07/davon-dillard-trey-lyles/4358241/ (http://www.indystar.com/story/recruiting-central/2014/01/07/davon-dillard-trey-lyles/4358241/)

Also suggesting we can forget about him:  EVERYONE WHO EVER HAD TO COACH A HEAD CASE

More about Dillard: "Bowman's standout basketball player Davon Dillard knocked a teammate unconscious in a bloody fight before the season started, according to a Gary police report obtained by the Post-Tribune...."

http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/24842898-556/police-report-dillard-struck-his-teammate.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/24842898-556/police-report-dillard-struck-his-teammate.html)

wow. were we even really recruiting this punk?

Verbal Commits now lists Valpo as one of the schools offering a scholarship to 2015 point guard LuWane Pipkins from Chicago. He recently shot 9-10 from 3-point range at the Derrick Coleman Challenge:

http://youtu.be/bY2p3NVoxr0 (http://youtu.be/bY2p3NVoxr0)

Read in Tribune that two big men from Chris Collins Northwestern program seeking transfers. http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/college/chi-chier-ajou-to-transfer-from-northwestern-basketball-20140107,0,6585175.story (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/college/chi-chier-ajou-to-transfer-from-northwestern-basketball-20140107,0,6585175.story)

Would be nice to have this player next year since we will be losing Bobby and Moussa.  Big men on the roster next year will be Vashil and Chadwick. 

Recruit Luwane Pipkins scored a school-record 40 points Saturday night after scoring 26 points on Thursday:


Bogan 76, T.F. South 48: The Rebels fell to 7-9 with the loss to the Bengals (15-2) in the Bob Hambric Shootout. Luwane Pipkins scored a school-record 40 points for Bogan.

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kdOI-Xiwk2k/URRgYxwqvUI/AAAAAAAAA58/--YP2jyqYAo/s1600/house-do-want.jpg)

Pipkins scored another 33 points tonight as his Bogan team beat Chicago's Simeon 59-51.

eh, just his average for the last couple games.  underachiever ;)

Apparently, Cortez Seales from Iowa is another 2015 point guard being seriously considered by Valpo.

http://youtu.be/lZEGHWfM46U (http://youtu.be/lZEGHWfM46U)

Valpo seems to be after a lot of PGs.  We seem to have a pretty good one in Lexus, Carter is getting there, and those Canadians are both PGs aren't they?  Hoping we can at least replace some of the height we are going to be losing with Gueye and Capo departing.

Quote from: HC on January 21, 2014, 11:17:15 AM
Valpo seems to be after a lot of PGs.  We seem to have a pretty good one in Lexus, Carter is getting there, and those Canadians are both PGs aren't they?  Hoping we can at least replace some of the height we are going to be losing with Gueye and Capo departing.

He's listed as 6-4 on one site and 6-5 on another, so it would appear that he's not necessarily limited by his height to play PG... Also, keep in mind this is 2015, so by the time he would get here, Carter and the Canadians (both appear more like combo guards) will be seniors, and Lexus will be a Junior. While there might be a bottleneck in the backcourt, it would be nice to groom a freshman to play point instead of throwing two new guys into the fire like we've done this year.

We do need some frontcourt help as immediate as next year. I would be shocked if Bryce didn't find a grad-school player or JUCO transfer in the next year to address this, as that seems to be the trend.

Are the Canadian guards in a prep program that won't count as NCAA eligible years, or is it like a JuCo?  I was under the impression that both would be FR as they entered Valpo. 

Quote from: valpotx on January 21, 2014, 03:58:29 PM
Are the Canadian guards in a prep program that won't count as NCAA eligible years, or is it like a JuCo?  I was under the impression that both would be FR as they entered Valpo.

Rivals.com had them listed as Sophomores, so that's what I based my information on... After looking at another thread, it looks like they'll have full eligibility.

Quote from: valpotx on January 21, 2014, 03:58:29 PMAre the Canadian guards in a prep program that won't count as NCAA eligible years, or is it like a JuCo?  I was under the impression that both would be FR as they entered Valpo.

The two Canadian guards are students at Vanier College.

http://www.vaniercollege.qc.ca/about/ (http://www.vaniercollege.qc.ca/about/)

Vanier College is a publicly-funded English language CEGEP located in Montreal. Named in honour of General Georges P. Vanier, Canada's second native-born Governor General, Vanier College opened its doors on September 8, 1970, welcoming close to 1,400 students in its first cohort. The Vanier College Crest is an adaption of the Vanier family Coat of Arms (http://www.vaniercollege.qc.ca/about/Vanier-Coat-of-Arms-Booklet.pdf).

As is typical in Canada Quebec runs their educational system differently than the other provinces in Canada. Vanier College is a CEGEP.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CEGEP (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CEGEP)

CEGEP (/ (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA_for_English)seɪˈʒɛp/ (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA_for_English) say-zhep or / (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA_for_English)ˈsiːdʒɛp/ (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA_for_English) see-jep; French (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_language): Cégep; also CÉGEP, Cegep or Cégep) is an acronym for Collège d'enseignement général et professionnel, known officially in English as a "General and Vocational College".[1] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CEGEP#cite_note-General_and_Vocational_Colleges_Act-1) It refers to the public post-secondary education (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Higher_education) collegiate (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/College_education_in_Quebec) institutions exclusive to the education system in the province of Quebec (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quebec) in Canada (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canada). It is a loanword from French (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_language).
Although all colleges in Quebec are colloquially referred to as CEGEPs, only public colleges are officially referred to by that name. Both public (CEGEPs) and private colleges have the same function in Quebec.[2] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CEGEP#cite_note-2) Although they may occasionally be compared to junior colleges (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Junior_college) or community colleges (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Community_college), CEGEPs differ in that a Diploma of College Studies (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diploma_of_College_Studies)[1] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CEGEP#cite_note-General_and_Vocational_Colleges_Act-1) (or Diplôme d'études collégiales, DEC) is required for university admission in Quebec unless a student enters as a mature student which typically means a minimum age of 21 with other requirements. Pre-university programs are typically two years in duration, which explains why secondary school and undergraduate degrees are both one year shorter in Quebec relative to elsewhere in Canada. A student in Quebec cannot enter university with a secondary diploma from Quebec alone.
The purpose of a separate collegiate education level is to make post-secondary education more accessible in Quebec, as well as to provide proper academic preparation for university (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University).[3] (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CEGEP#cite_note-Youth-3) There are both public subsidized (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subsidized) and private colleges, with the public CEGEPs having little or no tuition (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tuition) fee. The CEGEP system was started in 1967 by the Quebec provincial government (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Government_of_Quebec) and originally consisted of 12 CEGEPs. Today, 48 CEGEPs exist in Quebec, of which 5 are English language (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/English_language)-medium.

So if I have read this correctly the high schools are 3 years in Quebec and the undergraduate university programs are 3 years in Quebec. So the two Canadian guards are in a General and Vocational College (CEGEP)(2 years) which is a requirement in the Quebec system to go to university. So they are in a college prep school which was required of them if they had chosen to attend a Quebec university.


http://www.vaniercollege.qc.ca/about/cegep.php (http://www.vaniercollege.qc.ca/about/cegep.php)

In 1967, the Quebec government established a new level education which directly follows high school. The CEGEP system (collège d'enseignement general et professionnel) offers both two-year pre-university programs and three-year technical careeer programs. Vanier College is one of 48 public Cegeps in the province.


https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Vanier+College&ll=45.514027,-73.676213&spn=0.001182,0.002476&fb=1&gl=us&hq=Vanier+College+prep+Montreal&cid=14879632302064944939&t=h&z=19&layer=c&cbll=45.514182,-73.67648&panoid=iWSQPEqN4zinYqgMu1UeIQ&cbp=12,46.43,,1,5.06 (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Vanier+College&ll=45.514027,-73.676213&spn=0.001182,0.002476&fb=1&gl=us&hq=Vanier+College+prep+Montreal&cid=14879632302064944939&t=h&z=19&layer=c&cbll=45.514182,-73.67648&panoid=iWSQPEqN4zinYqgMu1UeIQ&cbp=12,46.43,,1,5.06)

Straight from the horse's mouth when the signings were announced:

QuoteValparaiso men's basketball head coach Bryce Drew announced Thursday that a pair of Canadian guards, Max Joseph and Tevonn Walker, have signed National Letters of Intent to join the Crusader program as freshmen for the 2014-15 season.

http://www.valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/news/2013-14/13148/crusaders-ink-pair-of-canadian-guards-to-nlis/ (http://www.valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/news/2013-14/13148/crusaders-ink-pair-of-canadian-guards-to-nlis/)

[quote author=a3uge link=topic=1419.msg40961#msg40961 date=1390340190
We do need some frontcourt help as immediate as next year. I would be shocked if Bryce didn't find a grad-school player or JUCO transfer in the next year to address this, as that seems to be the trend.


Speaking of JUCO transfers, Jared Drew is currently averaging more than 15 pts and 5 rebounds per game at Lakeland (Moussa's Junior College), and he is shooting 45% from the 3-pt line. He is not the big man to replace Moussa or Bobby, but at 6'6" he would be a nice replacement for Coleman. He'd also be a fine complement to his former teammate at St. Louis, Keith Carter, and I wouldn't be disappointed if an effort were made to bring the two together again.

Quote from: valpopal on January 21, 2014, 11:11:14 PM
Speaking of JUCO transfers, Jared Drew is currently averaging more than 15 pts and 5 rebounds per game at Lakeland (Moussa's Junior College), and he is shooting 45% from the 3-pt line. He is not the big man to replace Moussa or Bobby, but at 6'6" he would be a nice replacement for Coleman. He'd also be a fine complement to his former teammate at St. Louis, Keith Carter, and I wouldn't be disappointed if an effort were made to bring the two together again.

He'd play behind Alec or Jubril in the rotation and with the Canadians coming in to probably play behind Keith and Lexus, I think we need to focus all our efforts on getting a 6'10"+ player in.  Or at least a 6'9" 240+ guy. If they did bring him in then we could possibly run a really small lineup with a front court of Alec, Jubril and Drew, but holy crap would we be overmatched by bigger teams.

Your forgetting that we'll have Vashil for another year plus Nickerson and Chadwick. We should be fine.

Quote from: Kyle321n on January 22, 2014, 10:20:13 AM

Quote from: valpopal on January 21, 2014, 11:11:14 PM
Speaking of JUCO transfers, Jared Drew is currently averaging more than 15 pts and 5 rebounds per game at Lakeland (Moussa's Junior College), and he is shooting 45% from the 3-pt line. He is not the big man to replace Moussa or Bobby, but at 6'6" he would be a nice replacement for Coleman. He'd also be a fine complement to his former teammate at St. Louis, Keith Carter, and I wouldn't be disappointed if an effort were made to bring the two together again.

He'd play behind Alec or Jubril in the rotation and with the Canadians coming in to probably play behind Keith and Lexus, I think we need to focus all our efforts on getting a 6'10"+ player in.  Or at least a 6'9" 240+ guy. If they did bring him in then we could possibly run a really small lineup with a front court of Alec, Jubril and Drew, but holy crap would we be overmatched by bigger teams.

Drew will be eligible in 2014-2015 and Valpo would still have Fernandez and Chadwick as big men, plus we have Nickerson and another possible big man pick up for the remaining available slot. Assuming no transfers out and that Drew could play the 2 or 3 position, the roster would look like the following: 1: Carter, Williams, Joseph; 2: (Drew), Yeo, Davidson, Walker; 3: Peters, (Drew) 4: Adekoya, Nickerson; 5: Fernandez, Chadwick, JUCO Transfer?

A front line of Fernandez, Adekoya, Peters or Fernandez, Nickerson, Peters would do fine, especially with another year of experience for all—and who knows what big man Bryce might be able to add in that 12th roster spot?

Seth Adelsperger, 6'10" big man recruit for 2015, had a huge game this past weekend, scoring 14 points and pulling down 22 rebounds.

Quote from: vu72 on January 22, 2014, 10:37:46 AMplus Nickerson and Chadwick.

Quote from: valpopal on January 22, 2014, 10:47:02 AMstill have Fernandez and Chadwick as big men, plus we have Nickerson

what is it exactly about a) chadwick's game and b) the whole reason nickerson left Charlotte that makes people always cite them as "bigs" in spite of the evidence?

to be a "big" requires more than size.
http://www.nwitimes.com/e-victor-nickerson-becomes-latest-transfer-to-join-crusaders/article_d5f8506c-89d3-5d3d-8985-e179f7b3fe3a.html (http://www.nwitimes.com/e-victor-nickerson-becomes-latest-transfer-to-join-crusaders/article_d5f8506c-89d3-5d3d-8985-e179f7b3fe3a.html)

http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/21385320-556/e-victor-nickerson-transfers-to-valpo-alex-rossi-wont-return.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/21385320-556/e-victor-nickerson-transfers-to-valpo-alex-rossi-wont-return.html)

Chadwick is a bit like Bobby: he plays the 4 and 5 position and he can step out to shoot the three (4-7 58% thus far this year). With an extra year of experience and some strengthening, he could rebound well. His average of rebounds per 40 minutes is currenty just a bit behind Bobby: Chadwick 7.2, Bobby 8.8.

Nickerson is working on his outside shot, but he is not going to play the 1 or 2, and unless an emergency need arises, he is likely not going to play the 5. If you look at his past stats, he is definitely not an outside shooter yet, though one hopes he is improving that part of his game during this redshirt year.

That leaves him at 6'8" and playing the 3 and 4, pretty much like Peters. Nickerson will "play on the perimeter and drive to the basket," as Bryce says, the way Alec and Rowdy have at the 3 and 4 the past few years, both of whom were also able to rebound well.

I just can't see Chadwick playing the 5, unless he makes some major improvements on his inside game.  Any time he is in, he seems to go towards the 3 pt line vs. fighting down low.  It is obviously a limited sample size, but he seems more like a 3/4 than a 5.

I recently saw Bryce working with Nickerson on his jump shot.  They were the only 2 on the gym floor, other than someone to pass the ball and someone else to retrieve it. Bryce was focusing on a couple of things with EVN's shot - having him put more arc on his 3-pt. attempts and using the backboard on closer-in shots angled left and right. There was a lot of "hands on" teaching, with Bryce showing EVN where to hold the ball and even shooting the ball himself at times to demonstrate proper mechanics.  They never worked on anything inside of 10'.  I only saw them that one time, but I did get the sense that EVN is a perimeter player all the way.  By the way, he has a good looking jump shot and shoots with a lot of accuracy.     

Quote from: wh on January 22, 2014, 01:43:40 PMI did get the sense that EVN is a perimeter player all the way

thank you.  word from the charlotte board was that he was being asked to bulk up and play 4 but he's always seen himself as a 3.

we need 5s, but then so does the rest of the world.

Quote from: valpopal on January 21, 2014, 11:11:14 PMJared Drew is currently averaging more than 15 pts and 5 rebounds per game at Lakeland (Moussa's Junior College), and he is shooting 45% from the 3-pt line. He is not the big man to replace Moussa or Bobby, but at 6'6" he would be a nice replacement for Coleman.

Quote from: Kyle321n on January 22, 2014, 10:20:13 AMHe'd play behind Alec or Jubril in the rotation

Correct me if I am wrong but I think that part of the reason that Nickerson, and Peters and Adekoya came to Valpo was so they could get a chance to play the 3. On top of that Yeo is at the moment a better 3 than he is a 2. So since Drew does not appear to be a true 4 maybe we need to evaluate our returning 3's before we recruite any more.  In no particular order---

#1 Nickerson- At a roster listing of 195 lbs and 6' 7" might he be the frontrunner? 30lbs lighter than Jubril and Alec might mean a speed advantage but I have heard nobody mention his 3 point shot potential, or his defense or his rebounding ability. He has got to be the least talked about transfer that we have ever had sitting on the end of our bench. Do any of you have any kind of realistic feel for his place in next years pecking order? I want Chef to stay out of this one so that he doesn't get us all confused like he did with Carter.  ???
#2 Adekoya- He has played some 3 when needed but his body and skill set is more of a power forward 4. If his 3 point shooting, passing and dribbling continue to improve then maybe he can continue to play some 3. I think he can be become a good 4 even if his 3 point shooting never rises above 25%.
#3 Yeo - I think Clay can become a solid but smallish HL-style shooting forward. For certain matchups a 6'4" player can sometimes cover more ground than the guys who are much bigger.
#4 Peters- Sorry if I ruffle some feathers but at 6'8" and growing I view his future as more of a 4 also. Can he drive on or defend against a somewhat smaller but much quicker shooting forward?

I know that it sometimes is hard to tell who is the 3 and who is the 4 when Jubril and Alec are on the floor together and maybe that is one of the problems. I have taken to calling them 3 1/2's because with their freshman-level skills they do not do either position its full justice. At least we know what Coleman can do and who he can defend.

Is there any way that HC and the Valpo PPS system could break down past or future data that would only include the player performances at the 3 position?

I'll jump in and defend our good friend chef. He said Carter was a special talent and based on just his last game he certainly showed the skill level associated with the term "special". He can defend and steal like Buggs , pass as well as anyone and also shoots and drives better then anyone not named Dority. He has played what, five games? He will be a total stud by this time next year.

Quote from: justducky on January 22, 2014, 03:09:39 PM

Correct me if I am wrong but I think that part of the reason that Nickerson, and Peters and Adekoya came to Valpo was so they could get a chance to play the 3. On top of that Yeo is at the moment a better 3 than he is a 2. So since Drew does not appear to be a true 4 maybe we need to evaluate our returning 3's before we recruite any more.  In no particular order---

#1 Nickerson- At a roster listing of 195 lbs and 6' 7" might he be the frontrunner? 30lbs lighter than Jubril and Alec might mean a speed advantage but I have heard nobody mention his 3 point shot potential, or his defense or his rebounding ability. He has got to be the least talked about transfer that we have ever had sitting on the end of our bench. Do any of you have any kind of realistic feel for his place in next years pecking order?

I think realistically Nickerson should be a slashing 3 or a 4 rather than a perimeter shooter. His 3-point shooting in the past has not been good. At Charlotte his 3-point stats from 2011-2012: 3-19 (.158); 2012-2013: 11-47 (.234). If he can get those percentages to a good 35% or more, I will give great credit to Bryce as a teacher! In addition, I'd like his 6'7" body closer to the basket for rebounding. Also, standing next to him, I'd be shocked if he weighs only 195. I haven't worked at county fairs guessing people's weight, but he is easily over 200.

I can only calculate PPS if I have statistics to look at, usually all I have to look at are box scores at the end of halves, games, and season stats.

Chef seems like the perfect person to give you insight on Nickerson. I'm hoping he is a Jordan Fouse type player with a better jumper.

Quote from: HC on January 22, 2014, 04:07:13 PM
I can only calculate PPS if I have statistics to look at, usually all I have to look at are box scores at the end of halves, games, and season stats.

Chef seems like the perfect person to give you insight on Nickerson. I'm hoping he is a Jordan Fouse type player with a better jumper.

More likely a bigger version of Jordan Coleman

Quote from: vu72 on January 22, 2014, 04:34:40 PM

Quote from: HC on January 22, 2014, 04:07:13 PM
I can only calculate PPS if I have statistics to look at, usually all I have to look at are box scores at the end of halves, games, and season stats.

Chef seems like the perfect person to give you insight on Nickerson. I'm hoping he is a Jordan Fouse type player with a better jumper.

More likely a bigger version of Jordan Coleman

if he's a Fouse type player I will love having him on the team for 2 years and will gladly plug him at the 4 with Alec manning the 3.  If he's a bigger version of Coleman, then I'd love to see him play the 3 with Alec bulking up and taking over stretch 4 duties, so long as we have a 6'10" true 5. I think Alec projects better as a 3 personally, but I also thought Rowdy was a stretch 4 in a three guard system and both he and KVW would have benefited from playing with a true 5.

I would love to see us use a 2 PG system next season with Carter and Lexus starting and the Canadian Duo backing them up. From what I've seen all 4 of them can hit outside shots, handle the ball and when Carter and Lexus have played (very limited) minutes together they can defend either guard position. I don't know what the Canadians bring in terms of defense but even if we play a 2-3 zone with them in I feel they are quick and long enough to cover the top.

Quote from: justducky on January 22, 2014, 03:09:39 PMI want Chef to stay out of this one so that he doesn't get us all confused like he did with Carter.   

Quote from: HC on January 22, 2014, 04:07:13 PMChef seems like the perfect person to give you insight on Nickerson.

No, no, no, I'm sticking to my guns on this one. In fact whenever I see that he has logged in I stick my fingers in my ears and keep my eyes closed just so I don't pick up any misinformation. It's like listening to a presidential candidates debate where the closer you listen and the more details that you hear the dumber you then become.

Quote from: vu72 on January 22, 2014, 03:36:16 PM
I'll jump in and defend our good friend chef. He said Carter was a special talent and based on just his last game he certainly showed the skill level associated with the term "special". He can defend and steal like Buggs , pass as well as anyone and also shoots and drives better then anyone not named Dority. He has played what, five games? He will be a total stud by this time next year.

Yes, I incorrectly attributed a comment that 'KC is the best player on the team' to Chef instead of Paul Oren (by his own admission).  Either way I'm thankful that they're willing to share their insights, most of which prove to be very accurate and certainly better than mine. 

That said the thread I started about butler being in over their head in the Big East after an 0-3 start (even though they had a very good OOC record) is proving to be very insightful now that they're 1-6. Of course I take no delight in their misery because they've always been one of my all time favorite programs with the Butler Way and all that good stuff that they and only they have the insight to understand and intertwine with the game of basketball. It's an honor to think that we were once one of their stepping stones.

Quote from: justducky on January 22, 2014, 03:09:39 PMCorrect me if I am wrong but I think that part of the reason that Nickerson, and Peters and Adekoya came to Valpo was so they could get a chance to play the 3. On top of that Yeo is at the moment a better 3 than he is a 2. So since Drew does not appear to be a true 4 maybe we need to evaluate our returning 3's before we recruite any more.

Ok, can we conclude anything about the need or lack of need to recruit Jared Drew? It really all comes down to the coaches observations and evaluations. If they believe Nickerson will never be a good 3 point shooter, and that Peters' potential to develop into a very high quality very big 3 is limited then maybe we should take a closer look at this guy. Otherwise we might see a lot more of Yeo next year (at the 3) than any of us now think. If they do go after and land a highly recruited 3 (maybe Drew?) then it might speak volumes about what they think they have seen on the court during the course of the season.

I think Bryce is looking for bigs and said as much recently. That said if a "special" talent at another position shows up at our door step, anything is possible.

LuWane Pipkins broke the Bogan High School record he set a few weeks ago for most points in a game by scoring 46 against Harlan. He definitely sounds like a good one. For some reason though, I think bigger schools will soon show interest in Pipkins. Nonetheless, it would be nice to have him in two years, since he's setting these records as only a junior.

Did anyone know that Coach Cookie is a Bogan graduate?

A tweet I ran across on from Roy Schmidt from Illinois Prep Bullseye from a couple days ago.

"Valparaiso has been ALL OVER Chicago area when it comes to recruiting. ACs Matt Lottich & Luke Gore watched Morton's Weisnar Perez tonight."

Weisnar Perez listed schools he was interested in during a post-game interview and Valpo made the list. ...   However, he said much more about Hampton and Akron.

Weisner Perez Talks Improved Perimeter Game & Recruiting: (mobile video link)
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GLkGnh6kNGY&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DGLkGnh6kNGY

Quote from: Smj on February 13, 2014, 07:29:30 AM
Weisnar Perez listed schools he was interested in during a post-game interview and Valpo made the list. ...   However, he said much more about Hampton and Akron.

Weisner Perez Talks Improved Perimeter Game & Recruiting: (mobile video link)
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GLkGnh6kNGY&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DGLkGnh6kNGY (http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GLkGnh6kNGY&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DGLkGnh6kNGY)

You are correct. Also found this on twitter regarding Weisnar (not sure if Weisner or Weisnar, have seen it spelled both ways) Perez. It seems to me from this info if accurate that he is being targeted by Valpo. Will have to wait and see if the coaches are successful in his recruitment or not. But visiting campus gives us hope anyway....

Retweeted by Weisner Perez
Illinois Stars 17U‏@CoachILStarsAAU·Jan 18
Illinois Stars combo forward Weisner Perez taking an unofficial at Valpo today.  This is his 2nd visit to Valpo in 3 months.

Haha, You saw it spelled both ways. .... in my post.

Interesting that he mentions Hampton and Akron.  I also see that Loyola has picked up on their recruiting of him.  If we can't beat out Hampton or Loyola, there is something wrong.  Good to see that we are heavily recruiting Chicago again!

Quote from: valpotx on February 13, 2014, 10:57:00 AMIf we can't beat out Hampton or Loyola, there is something wrong.

franticnodding.gif

http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/2013/12/26/weisner-perezs-well-rounded-game-paying-off-for-morton-basketball/ai0d54e/ (http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/2013/12/26/weisner-perezs-well-rounded-game-paying-off-for-morton-basketball/ai0d54e/)
His brother is playing at the U of Chicago, so clearly an intelligent family.

6-6, 205 as a HS jr?  Yes please.

Also, surprisingly clean twitter feed.  (PRISTINE for a heavily recruited basketball player.)
http://www.verbalcommits.com/players/weisner-perez (http://www.verbalcommits.com/players/weisner-perez)

Another chicagohoops.com article written by Scott Burgess on 2015 recruit Weisner Perez. He and his parents visited Valpo recently for the Cleveland State game. It was his 3rd visit to Valpo. He looks to be a serious 2015 recruiting priority for Valpo based on this article. The coaching staff is following him closely.

http://www.chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/3082-weisner-perez-talks-valpo-visit (http://www.chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/3082-weisner-perez-talks-valpo-visit)

Weisner Perez Talks Valpo Visit

Category: Latest News Published on Friday, 07 March 2014 13:07 Written by Scott Burgess

Morton junior small forward Weisner Perez is primed for a breakout spring and summer after a productive high school season.  Perez is a strong and physical wing that is a dominant rebounder and plus defender.  He can score around the basket consistently and the biggest development this season has been in his perimeter game.  As a junior he has improved his lefty jump shot and can put multiple moves together to take his man off the bounce.

One of the programs that is starting to take a lot of interest in him is Valparaiso.  He recently took another visit to see them play.

"First my parents and I sat and watched them go head to head vs Cleveland State.  It was an impressive game and very tough basketball.  Then after got to go back in coach's office and talked to all the coaches.  The head coach sat my parents and I in his office and talked of the program and how he will see me soon.  He broke down how he likes what he has seen on film and assistant coaches have been out to see me several times and like me as well."

Perez spoke about what stands out with Valpo.

"What impressed me is the unity that the team showed and family like atmosphere all the coaches and team had after the game.  Also the energy the games have and the atmosphere really impressed me!"

After multiple trips to campus he has built a tight relationship with the staff.

"Coach Drew, with it being my third time there, they have really made a good feeling with me and a connection with my parents.  Also assistants Gore and Lottich have been out to see me a lot and I feel like I've connected with them nice."

It seems like Valpo is making a serious run for his services.

"Yes they have begun to recruit me hard and definitely said that they want me to make sure I consider them heavily in recruitment."

What have they told him they like about his game?

"They like my ability to be able to play inside and out.  They like guys that can guard multiple positions.  The fact that I can shoot and extend it to the three-point line and also be effective inside."

Based on the tone of the article sounds like Perez will be dressing in the brown & gold come late October of 2015. Still a ton of time and anything can happen in between now and then.

As I mentioned in the Cleveland State thread after the game, I noticed a few "recruits (a couple of them back for second and third visits) at the game who stuck around with their families to witness the ceremony and who also bowed their heads in prayer with Bryce at the close during the recognition for the seniors."

I recognized Perez because I'd seen him at Valpo games previously with his parents. Also, I noticed 6'11" Seth Adelsperger was another returning recruit whom I'd seen at a previous game. He was there once again with his parents as well.

I wish they'd seen Valpo play a much better game, but I think the post-game ceremony for seniors displayed to them the great relationship Valpo players have with Bryce and the rest of the coaching staff.

Perez is listed as a small forward graduating in 2015. Matt Holba doesn't get mentioned much, and I am not sure of his priority at this time. According to Verbal Commits, he is another 2015 small forward who does have two offers in hand, one from Valpo and another from Providence (which already recently received a commitment from Ryan Fazekas, another small forward Valpo recruit). However, here is a quick video of a shot Holba took in a recent game:

http://youtu.be/80gUnrJs-yU (http://youtu.be/80gUnrJs-yU)

Wish we would have played much better that game, as well!  Hopefully the big guy was fine with the loss, as we always like height!

I keep getting funky things and then an error on that video...I assume he makes the 3/4 court shot?

Also, Mr. Perez, coming to VU would be a Weis move.

And I don't me Frederic.

I had to look up Frederic Weis


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fr%C3%A9d%C3%A9ric_Weis (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fr%C3%A9d%C3%A9ric_Weis)

"Le dunk de la mort"

Weis is known for having been "posterized" by the United States' Vince Carter during a basketball game between the two teams at the 2000 Summer Olympics on September 25, 2000. After getting the ball off a steal, the 6'6" (1.98 m) Carter drove to the basket, leaped, spread his legs as he jumped over 7'2" (2.18 m) Weis, and ferociously dunked the ball. The French media dubbed the slam "le dunk de la mort": "the dunk of death." The US won the game 106-94.

He was drafted by the New York Knicks with the 15th pick in the first round of the 1999 NBA Draft, but he did not sign with them and never played in the NBA. The draft pick angered many Knicks fans because Ron Artest, who had grown up in Queens, New York and played for St. John's University, was still available. Artest was taken with the next pick by the Chicago Bulls.

The best dunk I've seen may be from Keifer Sykes.  They say he is 5'11", but I doubt it.  Anyway, take a look at this dunk in slow motion and you will see his hand at the top of the box on the backboard.  So that is about 11' off the floor.  If his standing reach is 7'6", that means his vertical is at least 42".  Amazing.

Keifer Sykes Slow Motion Alley Oop Dunk at UIC (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yaRAEkVIE4Y#ws)

Seth Adelsperger update:

http://ny2lasports.com/article_one.aspx?articleid=1988 (http://ny2lasports.com/article_one.aspx?articleid=1988)

Why is there a Sykes post in here?

A big guy would be great, I know he is probably raw but the coaches have done a nice job coaching up Vashil so far.

Apparently, Luwane Pipkins scored 45 points in a sectional final win tonight with 9 3-pt. shots and 14-14 from the free throw line. Unfortunately, he also had folks from West Virginia there to scout him.

Have we actually offered him yet? 

My guess is he'll go to a big name program. The only way he goes to Valpo is if he wants to stay close to home and Northwestern and DePaul are both awful and we're the best Chicagoland based school. That's the only way we land him, if he wants to stay close to home.

UIC -- Stinks
Loyola -- Stinks
Chicago State -- Stinks
DePaul -- Stinks
Northwestern -- Stinks
Northern Illinois -- Stinks
Valpo -- Successful!!!

I guess if he wanted to broaden it a bit schools like: Notre Dame, Wisconsin, Purdue, Illinois, Marquette, aren't too far from Chicago. You never know some kids just don't want a big school and some are home-bodies.

The Valpo coaches, including Bryce, were at Weisner Perez's sectional game Tuesday night. Perez scored 14 points in a triple overtime upset of the number 1 seed. One of his teammates, senior guard Greg Carter, scored 35.

Obediah Church, a 6' 7" small forward from Springfield, IL has shown interest in Valpo. No offer yet. Currently has offers from GB, UIC, SIUe, and Bradley.

Schools also have shown intersest in Church, is Wisconsin, Northern Iowa, Toledo, Missouri State, and Illinois State and UC Davis.

He also plays for the same AAU team, the Peoria Irish, that Alec Peters went to.

Quote from: classof2014 on April 10, 2014, 10:59:37 AMObediah Church, a 6' 7" small forward from Springfield, IL has shown interest in Valpo. No offer yet. Currently has offers from GB, UIC, SIUe, and Bradley. Schools also have shown intersest in Church, is Wisconsin, Northern Iowa, Toledo, Missouri State, and Illinois State and UC Davis. He also plays for the same AAU team, the Peoria Irish, that Alec Peters went to.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1Kn7oksNRY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1Kn7oksNRY)

video of Obediah Church on youtube. The AAU video was taken at Woodruff HS in Peoria.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdAGWu38Wh4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdAGWu38Wh4)

Here is an interview with Obediah Church just after an AAU game


Springfield HS is in the Central State Eight Conference with the always tough Springfield Sacred Heart-Griffin, Jacksonville, Lincoln, Rochester, Chatham-Glenwood, Taylorville and the other two public high schools in Springfield, Southeast and Lanphier. 

Quote from: historyman on April 10, 2014, 01:47:11 PMObediah Church

now THERE is a name.

http://www.chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/3262-osborne-transferring-from-loyola (http://www.chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/3262-osborne-transferring-from-loyola)

Osborne Transferring From Loyola
Category: Latest News Published on Saturday, 12 April 2014 21:57 Written by Brian Stinnette
Nick Osborne has decided to transfer out of the Loyola basketball program.

Osborne, a 6'8 sophomore power forward, averaged 5.4 points and 4.0 rebounds in 17.7 minutes of playing time per contest.

Osborne was considered a recruiting coup for Loyola out of Muncie Central (IN) High School.

Osborne joins 6'8 Matt O'Leary as Loyola's second transfer since the end of the season.


http://www.chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/3259-matt-o-leary-to-transfer-from-loyola (http://www.chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/3259-matt-o-leary-to-transfer-from-loyola)

Matt O'Leary To Transfer From Loyola

Category: Latest News Published on Saturday, 12 April 2014 11:12 Written by Chicago Hoops
Loyola sophomore Matt O'Leary has decided to transfer from the Missouri Valley Conference school.

O'Leary, a 6'8 forward, averaged 4.2 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.9 assists per contest as a sophomore. O'Leary saw his production dip over the second half of last season.

O'Leary starred as a prep at Terre Haute North Vigo (IN).

O'Leary will have two years of playing eligibility remaining after he transfers.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Transfers from Loyola-Chicago per articles in chicagohoops.com from yesterday, 4-12-14. I understand folks wondering since they are transferring from former HL conference member "Loyola"  ;) but I wonder if either of these young men from Indiana would fill a need as a "big" power forward type. Both seemed to have very good high school careers at their respective high schools. I would assume Valpo coaches would be somewhat familiar with both players. Since they would  both have to sit out a year, I thought I would put their availability in the Recruiting 2015 thread.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Also, can't recall where I read it, but Valpo 2015 recruiting target Weisner Perez received another scholarship offer. Penn recently offered him, as have Cornell, Brown, and Hampton. Perez has a lot of schools following him, including Valpo. From his twitter account the following. 

Weisner Perez‏@weezner_23·23 hrs
Blessed to have received another offer from UPenn >>>>>>> #blessed

Think he would be a "good get" for Valpo, academically and on the court! Lots of competition for him. Verbal Commits shows the following info on Weisner Perez and his recruiting.

http://www.verbalcommits.com/players/weisner-perez (http://www.verbalcommits.com/players/weisner-perez)

Now, since the Ivies don't give athletic scholarships...what sort of offer has he received?  Weird.

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on April 13, 2014, 07:10:23 PM
Now, since the Ivies don't give athletic scholarships...what sort of offer has he received?  Weird.

Not so weird.  Ivies can cover all costs, but through direct financial aid instead of an athletic scholarship.  It's similar to how we give financial aid to our FB players.  Much of it is discretionary.  The Ivies are experts at this -- plus, if the kid is reasonably smart, he/she will graduate into an alumni support system that will guarantee 6 figure salaries for the rest of their lives.

What's weird is doing the same thing but calling it another name. 

Perez got a full-ride offer from Ivy League schools.  Because he can play basketball.

...but it's not an athletic scholarship.  ...mmkay.

Spot-on question LAA.

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on April 13, 2014, 11:11:22 PM
What's weird is doing the same thing but calling it another name. 

Perez got a full-ride offer from Ivy League schools.  Because he can play basketball.

...but it's not an athletic scholarship.  ...mmkay.

It's not much different for a "run of the mill" non-athlete Ivy student. It not about paying for school. It's about getting excepted by an Ivy school. Although those who are fortunate enough to be able to afford an Ivy League education will end up paying for it. 

Quote from: vufan75 on April 13, 2014, 02:30:06 PMhttp://www.chicagohoops.hoops247.com/index.php/2011-08-04-18-06-26/3262-osborne-transferring-from-loyola

Osborne Transferring From Loyola
Category: Latest News Published on Saturday, 12 April 2014 21:57 Written by Brian Stinnette
Nick Osborne has decided to transfer out of the Loyola basketball program.

Osborne, a 6'8 sophomore power forward, averaged 5.4 points and 4.0 rebounds in 17.7 minutes of playing time per contest.

Osborne was considered a recruiting coup for Loyola out of Muncie Central (IN) High School.

I know Valpo was interested in Osborne when he decided to go with Loyola. If he doesn't choose to return to his hometown and play for Ball State, I could see Valpo as a possible location for him, though he would have to sit out a year.

Word this morning is that Nick Osborne has chosen IUPUI. I am more than surprised.

Quote from: valpopal on April 22, 2014, 07:38:14 AM
Word this morning is that Nick Osborne has chosen IUPUI. I am more than surprised.

Jason Gardner was an assistant at Loyola.  Was he originally invloved with Osborne, I do not know.  Gardner is a very well known name here in Indy. He should be able to have some recruiting successes. Plus they will be playing in the newly renovated State Fair Coliseum.

Valpo is scheduled to visit Dequon Miller tomorrow.

[tweet]458607088873508864[/tweet]

Quote from: IndyValpo on April 22, 2014, 08:44:52 AM

Quote from: valpopal on April 22, 2014, 07:38:14 AM
Word this morning is that Nick Osborne has chosen IUPUI. I am more than surprised.

Jason Gardner was an assistant at Loyola.  Was he originally invloved with Osborne, I do not know.  Gardner is a very well known name here in Indy. He should be able to have some recruiting successes. Plus they will be playing in the newly renovated State Fair Coliseum.

Current Coliseum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds halfway through the remodeling:

http://thestatehousefile.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/DSC_2158_edit.jpg (http://thestatehousefile.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/DSC_2158_edit.jpg)


Artist's rendering of what the remodeled Coliseum will look like:

http://thestatehousefile.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/End-Stage-set-up-FINAL.jpg (http://thestatehousefile.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/End-Stage-set-up-FINAL.jpg)


Video of remodel of Coliseum at the State Fairgrounds/Pepsi Coliseum (previous name):

Pepsi Coliseum renovation (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2s-3A_bAs8#ws)


Unfortunately it's will still be on 38th Street on the near northeast side of Indy.

Don't know much about Indy.  Is that location in a bad (high crime) area?

Quote from: wh on April 22, 2014, 05:14:34 PM
Don't know much about Indy.  Is that location in a bad (high crime) area?

Google maps shows it's 5+ miles across town and north from the campus.  I know that doesn't answer the question, but it's right inside the fair grounds surrounded by asphalt and other big buildings.  The satellite photos show a blue collar-ish, not-upscale surrounding neighborhood, but you can't tell how not upscale.

https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Indianapolis,+IN&hl=en&ll=39.825166,-86.142896&spn=0.000455,0.000618&sll=41.475425,-87.053415&sspn=0.080385,0.1581&oq=Indianapolis&t=h&hnear=Indianapolis,+Marion+County,+Indiana&z=21&layer=c&cbll=39.825166,-86.142896&panoid=N5U-osDL6Wwe_Nhq8V59Ng&cbp=12,20.75,,0,0 (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Indianapolis,+IN&hl=en&ll=39.825166,-86.142896&spn=0.000455,0.000618&sll=41.475425,-87.053415&sspn=0.080385,0.1581&oq=Indianapolis&t=h&hnear=Indianapolis,+Marion+County,+Indiana&z=21&layer=c&cbll=39.825166,-86.142896&panoid=N5U-osDL6Wwe_Nhq8V59Ng&cbp=12,20.75,,0,0)

824 E 38th St is boarded up with a vacant lot next door. 3 blocks away is the intersection of the Indiana State Fairgrounds and the Monon Trail (old railroad bed turned to hiking, biking, walking and running trail).

https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Indianapolis,+IN&hl=en&ll=39.825466,-86.139937&spn=0.000458,0.000618&sll=41.475425,-87.053415&sspn=0.080385,0.1581&oq=Indianapolis&t=h&hnear=Indianapolis,+Marion+County,+Indiana&z=21&layer=c&cbll=39.825466,-86.139937&panoid=8GkEbq3Ec_ZhkJ8icRgKqQ&cbp=12,10.45,,0,0 (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Indianapolis,+IN&hl=en&ll=39.825466,-86.139937&spn=0.000458,0.000618&sll=41.475425,-87.053415&sspn=0.080385,0.1581&oq=Indianapolis&t=h&hnear=Indianapolis,+Marion+County,+Indiana&z=21&layer=c&cbll=39.825466,-86.139937&panoid=8GkEbq3Ec_ZhkJ8icRgKqQ&cbp=12,10.45,,0,0)

The fairgrounds themselves are not bad once you are inside the fence. By the way the Monon Trail is extremely popular once you are north of Broad Ripple (approximately 64th Street).

http://www.wthr.com/story/19711496/rescuer-recounts-monon-trail-attack (http://www.wthr.com/story/19711496/rescuer-recounts-monon-trail-attack)  This is 35th Street near the Fairgrounds.

Here's some history of a neighborhood near the State Fairgrounds
http://www.discovereastvillageapts.com/p/apartments/neighborhood_7413/indianapolis-in-46205/east-village-at-avondale-meadows-7413 (http://www.discovereastvillageapts.com/p/apartments/neighborhood_7413/indianapolis-in-46205/east-village-at-avondale-meadows-7413)

Since that time, the Meadows has been one of Indianapolis' most challenged neighborhoods. The concentration of poverty in five
low-income apartment complexes, high crime and the flight of quality retail businesses tracked the path of urban decline that has
afflicted much of inner-city America over the past 40 years.

Another boarded up house on 38th Street near the fairgrounds

https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Indianapolis,+IN&hl=en&ll=39.825439,-86.125374&spn=0.000458,0.000618&sll=41.475425,-87.053415&sspn=0.080385,0.1581&oq=Indianapolis&t=h&hnear=Indianapolis,+Marion+County,+Indiana&layer=c&cbll=39.825439,-86.125374&panoid=7ZaT7naGz6B90MGTVKybIQ&cbp=12,179.94,,0,0&z=21 (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=Indianapolis,+IN&hl=en&ll=39.825439,-86.125374&spn=0.000458,0.000618&sll=41.475425,-87.053415&sspn=0.080385,0.1581&oq=Indianapolis&t=h&hnear=Indianapolis,+Marion+County,+Indiana&layer=c&cbll=39.825439,-86.125374&panoid=7ZaT7naGz6B90MGTVKybIQ&cbp=12,179.94,,0,0&z=21)


The Indiana State Fair is a great event and I would encourage anyone to visit. Plan for a full day and park inside the fence. Any other
events at the fairgrounds you can usually park inside the fence.

Quote from: VULB#62 on April 22, 2014, 06:26:58 PM

Quote from: wh on April 22, 2014, 05:14:34 PM
Don't know much about Indy.  Is that location in a bad (high crime) area?

Google maps shows it's 5+ miles across town and north from the campus.  I know that doesn't answer the question, but it's right inside the fair grounds surrounded by asphalt and other big buildings.  The satellite photos show a blue collar-ish, not-upscale surrounding neighborhood, but you can't tell how not upscale.

From the Neighborhood Scout report I found (below) it would appear that the Fairgrounds is in a relatively high crime neighborhood.  Interestingly (at least to me), the report shows that Indianapolis has a ranking of 3 on the city crime index, meaning it is less safe than 97% of cities across the country.  By comparison, Chicago (which is widely regarded as a murder capital) has a ranking of 8. Being totally Chicago-focused in "the Region" (media, time zone, proximity, economic engine, sports teams, etc.) most of us know little about the rest of our own state, even Indy.  I would never have guessed that Indianapolis is a dangerous place.  Whenever I drive through it, it seems to have a look of urban sprawl gone wild - nothing particularly positive or negative, just kind of there. 

http://www.neighborhoodscout.com/in/indianapolis/crime/ (http://www.neighborhoodscout.com/in/indianapolis/crime/)

Quote from: wh on April 22, 2014, 08:41:54 PM

Quote from: VULB#62 on April 22, 2014, 06:26:58 PM

Quote from: wh on April 22, 2014, 05:14:34 PM
Don't know much about Indy.  Is that location in a bad (high crime) area?

Google maps shows it's 5+ miles across town and north from the campus.  I know that doesn't answer the question, but it's right inside the fair grounds surrounded by asphalt and other big buildings.  The satellite photos show a blue collar-ish, not-upscale surrounding neighborhood, but you can't tell how not upscale.

From the Neighborhood Scout report I found (below) it would appear that the Fairgrounds is in a relatively high crime neighborhood.  Interestingly (at least to me), the report shows that Indianapolis has a ranking of 3 on the city crime index, meaning it is less safe than 97% of cities across the country.  By comparison, Chicago (which is widely regarded as a murder capital) has a ranking of 8. Being totally Chicago-focused in "the Region" (media, time zone, proximity, economic engine, sports teams, etc.) most of us know little about the rest of our own state, even Indy.  I would never have guessed that Indianapolis is a dangerous place.  Whenever I drive through it, it seems to have a look of urban sprawl gone wild - nothing particularly positive or negative, just kind of there. 

http://www.neighborhoodscout.com/in/indianapolis/crime/ (http://www.neighborhoodscout.com/in/indianapolis/crime/)

I could be completely wrong, but it seems like crime is higher in Midwestern cities like Indy, Milwaukee, St Louis, Cleveland, and Detroit because they have plenty of cheep land for suburbs to develop while still being a short drive to the city center for work. You can't live in a Chicago suburb and work downtown, at least not without wanting to smash in the car in front of you with a baseball bat because of the horrible traffic.

Still i'd feel a lot safer walking by Indy's east side than Chicago's south side. Seems like there's a Lot more gang problems in Chicago than Indy.

http://fox59.com/2013/12/23/puppy-shot-on-near-east-side-during-possible-gang-initiation-needs-help/#axzz2zhaohdiv (http://fox59.com/2013/12/23/puppy-shot-on-near-east-side-during-possible-gang-initiation-needs-help/#axzz2zhaohdiv)

http://www.indianapolisrecorder.com/news/features/article_b1a9e963-459b-5b5f-ae39-9b71d5aca755.html?mode=image (http://www.indianapolisrecorder.com/news/features/article_b1a9e963-459b-5b5f-ae39-9b71d5aca755.html?mode=image)

http://www.wthr.com/story/19583675/indianapolis-south-side-gang-members-charged (http://www.wthr.com/story/19583675/indianapolis-south-side-gang-members-charged)

http://www.indianabarrister.com/archives/2007/09/hail_hail_the_gangs_all_here.html (http://www.indianabarrister.com/archives/2007/09/hail_hail_the_gangs_all_here.html)

https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20110201173434AAOgXRA (https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20110201173434AAOgXRA)
Then avoid the east side.

And there are gangs all over Indianapolis, not just the west side. I've lived on the west side of Indy since 2005 and have never had a problem with gangs.

http://www.theindychannel.com/news/-pop-it-off-boys-gang-raids-net-15-arrests (http://www.theindychannel.com/news/-pop-it-off-boys-gang-raids-net-15-arrests)

http://www.indianapolismonthly.com/features/story.aspx?ID=1916059 (http://www.indianapolismonthly.com/features/story.aspx?ID=1916059)

Here's one from yesterday
http://fox59.com/2014/04/22/three-people-shot-on-near-northeast-side/#axzz2zhaohdiv (http://fox59.com/2014/04/22/three-people-shot-on-near-northeast-side/#axzz2zhaohdiv)


It always amazes me that some people think there is no gang violence outside of NYC, LA and Chicago. It may have started there but the gangs are very multi-city now.

To turn this back to recruiting, I think basketball, which was always important in Indy, has become more of a lifeline to kids to save them from gang activity.

Indianapolis is a really nice city. Like any city, there are areas you'll probably want to avoid, but those areas will become readily apparent on the crime maps. Overall, though, Indy is a great place.

I would like to echo this last statement's theme that Indy is a great place you just need to be careful and avoid problem areas.

Quote from: a3uge on April 23, 2014, 12:57:53 AMplenty of cheep land

(http://ak9.picdn.net/shutterstock/videos/2256319/preview/stock-footage-baby-yellow-black-and-white-chick-standing-on-lawn-week-backyard-free-range-egg-layer-will-grow.jpg)

Ball State offered scholarships to two of our 2015 recruits last night: Seth Adelsperger and Devin Cannady. I would hope Valpo is more appealing to them.

Matt Holba had an in-home visit from Valpo last night. Today, another visit will be with Dequon Miller.

Quote from: IndyValpo on April 22, 2014, 08:44:52 AM

Quote from: valpopal on April 22, 2014, 07:38:14 AM
Word this morning is that Nick Osborne has chosen IUPUI. I am more than surprised.

Jason Gardner was an assistant at Loyola.  Was he originally invloved with Osborne, I do not know.  Gardner is a very well known name here in Indy. He should be able to have some recruiting successes. Plus they will be playing in the newly renovated State Fair Coliseum.

You must be right, IndyValpo. Gardner also just picked up a commitment from Osborne's teammate and fellow transfer, Matt O'Leary.

Though it would have been good to get some height from those 2 transfers, I was not impressed with possibly getting Loyola transfers.  I believe that they ended up at the right place for their talents.

Sometime back Commissioner from the Detroit board did a mini-analysis on how transfers from Major conferences have performed in the HL.  A small percentage seemed to meet or exceed expectations.  The majority were pretty average or even mediocre performers.  The prospects of an unhappy, unfulfilled player from a bad mid major team suddenly sparkling on a mid major team with better players seems like a high risk/low reward proposition.

From Notre Dame Hoops @NDHoopsRecruits Twitter


MBB: INBasketballSource says ND watched 2015 6-7 SF Matt Holba (IN) Tues. 2* Scout, NR Rivals & ESPN. Providence & Valpo offers.
  08:26 AM - 23 Apr 14

Some news about us and others...

http://www.indystar.com/story/recruiting-central/2014/04/23/iupui-matt-oleary-jason-gardner-kendall-rollins/8058841/ (http://www.indystar.com/story/recruiting-central/2014/04/23/iupui-matt-oleary-jason-gardner-kendall-rollins/8058841/)

Quote from: IndyValpo on April 23, 2014, 03:12:11 PMSome news about us and others... http://www.indystar.com/story/recruiting-central/2014/04/23/iupui-matt-oleary-jason-gardner-kendall-rollins/8058841/ (http://www.indystar.com/story/recruiting-central/2014/04/23/iupui-matt-oleary-jason-gardner-kendall-rollins/8058841/)

I've overused my limited number of Indy Star stories. Can someone with access cut and paste the story for me?

Here you go historyman:

It's a hot time for recruiting news. A few more notes from today:

*IUPUI picked up another transfer on Wednesday, its fourth since coach Jason Gardner was hired as coach.

Matt O'Leary, a 6-8 forward, averaged 4.2 points and 3.0 rebounds as a sophomore at Loyola (Ill.) in 31 games. O'Leary committed to IUPUI a day after his Loyola teammate, Nick Osborne. Gardner was an assistant at Loyola before taking an assistant coaching position at Memphis.

"My relationship with coach Gardner was a huge part of it," said O'Leary, who played at Terre Haute North. "I feel like it's an awesome chance. I know he feels like we have a good chance to win the Summit League in the next couple years with the players he's bringing in."

In addition to O'Leary and Osborne, IUPUI is also adding Western Michigan transfer Leo Svete and Eastern Michigan transfer Darell Combs.

*Pike 6-7 senior Kendall Rollins committed to Western Illinois on Wednesday. Rollins 8.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, 2.8 blocked shots and 2.0 assists in 24 games for Pike as a senior.

Western Illinois is coached by Billy Wright, a former Pike coach and Ball State assistant.

*Peru 6-10 center Seth Adelsperger picked up an offer from Ball State on Tuesday night. Indiana State and Valparaiso have also offered Adelsperger, who averaged 14.7 points and 11.2 rebounds as a junior. ... Purdue was in this morning to get a look at Park Tudor freshman Jaren Jackson Jr. at an open gym. The 6-7 Jackson will be a player to watch over the next couple years. ... Howe junior guard Harris Brown has opened up his recruitment from Loyola (Ill.). ... Traders Point junior guard Nick Rogers picked up an offer from Ohio. ... Purdue transfer Ronnie Johnson is scheduled to visit Xavier on Thursday. ... Indiana and Indiana State were in Wednesday to see Lawrence Central sophomore guards Kyle Guy and Mekhi Biffle. ... Guerin Catholic junior Matt Holba had an in-home visit with Valparaiso on Tuesday.

Apparently, Valpo can take LuWane Pipkins off their list of offers. Word is that he has chosen U Mass.

Here are highlights of Holba from last weekend.  Not sure how to embed the video here (or if I even can), so I'll just link it.  someone can edit my post if needed.  Seems like a Valpo type player.

youtube.com/watch?v=2oMhtPj8JXY

I like guys who attempt to block shots!

(http://cdn.memegenerator.net/instances/500x/49644547.jpg)

Report by a sportswriter that Dequon Miller now has been offered a scholarship.

[tweet]466006681621520386[/tweet]

Who is Tequon Miller?  Does anyone have some info on him?

Quote from: valpo64 on May 13, 2014, 07:25:15 AM
Who is Tequon Miller?  Does anyone have some info on him?

http://stats.njcaa.org/sports/mbkb/2013-14/div1/players/dequonmiller8i7l (http://stats.njcaa.org/sports/mbkb/2013-14/div1/players/dequonmiller8i7l)

He looks like a juco guard with 3 years of eligibility remaining. He appears to be more of a scoring pg, one who shoots for a higher %. He shoots 2's in the high 40% range, 3-pointers in the mid-40% range, and has a very nice assist/turnover ratio as well, if I recall right something > 2.5. And his FT% is 84.1%. He averaged a little over 20ppg this past season at Motlow State Community College located in Lynchburg, TN. He started 25 of 26 games for Motlow. His height varies from one recruiting service to another, with him listed as 5-11 on scout.com. Oh, and his birthday is today, so Happy Birthday, DeQuon!!  :) 

I'm just not sure why we would be offering a scholarship to yet another guard who appears to be a pg. With Keith Carter and Lexus Williams returning and both being primarily pg's, with the other guards on the roster already plus the 2 Canadian recruits who are guards and will be freshman this year, the guard position seems pretty full? We need another BIG, more than another guard IMHO.

But, I'm sure the coaches know more than me (that is for sure) and maybe someone will be redshirting next season to space out the guards in terms of years of eligibility remaining a little more. And of course given the recruiting competition, schools like Tennessee, Missouri and Arizona State after DeQuon, we are at this point just one of the schools who have offered him a schollie with no guarantee he will choose Valpo. He does appear to be a very good player and you can never have enough of those! 

Thanks for the update, VuFan!

Quote from: bbtds on April 16, 2014, 01:58:07 AM

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on April 13, 2014, 11:11:22 PM
What's weird is doing the same thing but calling it another name. 

Perez got a full-ride offer from Ivy League schools.  Because he can play basketball.

...but it's not an athletic scholarship.  ...mmkay.

It's not much different for a "run of the mill" non-athlete Ivy student. It not about paying for school. It's about getting excepted by an Ivy school. Although those who are fortunate enough to be able to afford an Ivy League education will end up paying for it. 

Interesting article that made me think of our recent talking of Ivy League athletes.  Safe to say this hasn't happened in a while:

http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140513/SPORTS0203/305130098/Yale-basketball-player-leaves-team-school-cappella-group (http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140513/SPORTS0203/305130098/Yale-basketball-player-leaves-team-school-cappella-group)

It's a shame, Poor little lamb who has lost his way.....

Max Rothschild, a 6'7" SF from Chicago, is on campus today for an unofficial visit.

All the talk about recruiting this year and the year after next (ok, I started that one) got me thinking...where are we next year?

I combed this thread, braving the inevitable digressions into where and how Chadwick will play, which neighborhoods in Indy are bad news, etc. (surprising: no facilities discussions or Drew leaving rumors...just Powell actually : ) NOTE TO IMPRESSIONABLE RECRUITS:  NOBODY IS LEAVING THESE ARE JOKES EVERYONE IS HERE TO STAY FOREVER THANK YOU), as well as the rest of the Interwebz to track down the latest information available.

Which, this being the Innerweb, will be out of date by the time you read this.

Happy Trails

• Ryan Fazekas (Providence)
• Aaron Jordan (Illinois)
• LuWane Pipkins (UMass)

Assume recruits are 2-star on the composite rankings unless otherwise listed.  I thought about listing recruits alphabetically, then by how much we want them, then by size, and then I realized those last two were the same. So:

Group 3:  How interested are we?
(http://cdn2.sportngin.com/attachments/roster_player_info/3586/4975/31_-_Julian_Torres_medium.jpg)
Julian Torres: 6'8 PF from Bolingbrook
Offers from UIC, CSU, NIU, Bradley
http://verbalcommits.com/players/julian-torres (http://verbalcommits.com/players/julian-torres)

(http://stritahs.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/myles-carter.jpg)
Myles Carter:6'7 PF from St. Rita (IL) 3 star recruit!
Offers from VCU, Providence, Bradley, Xavier, DePaul, Memphis
http://verbalcommits.com/players/myles-carter (http://verbalcommits.com/players/myles-carter)

(http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/907/1256023.jpg)
Max Rothschild: 6'7, 205 SF from New Hampton Prep (Chicagoan going prep route next year)
Offers from Brown, CSU, UIC, Presby, NIU
http://verbalcommits.com/players/max-rothschild (http://verbalcommits.com/players/max-rothschild)

(http://cdn4.sportngin.com/attachments/text_block/3682/4615/carlos-anderson-alton-hs_large.jpg)
Carlos Anderson: 6'4, 215 SG from Alton, IL
Offers from ALL THE DIRECTIONAL ILLINOISE: UIC, SIU-E, SIU, WIU, Drake
http://verbalcommits.com/players/carlos-anderson (http://verbalcommits.com/players/carlos-anderson)

(http://media.247sports.com/Uploads/Assets/219/85/4_1085219.JPG)
Roosevelt Smart: 6'3, 170 SG from St. Viator (IL)
Offers from Creighton, WSU, NIU, LaSalle
http://verbalcommits.com/players/roosevelt-smart (http://verbalcommits.com/players/roosevelt-smart)

Group 2: Are we interested enough to offer?
(http://cdn3.sportngin.com/attachments/text_block/3540/2294/obi-church-springfield-hs_large.jpg)
Obediah Church: 6'7 SF from Springfield (IL)
Offers from N Dakota, Tenn St, Bradley, UIC, SIU-E, UWGB, FIU, Missouri St, S Dakota, Ohio
http://verbalcommits.com/players/obediah-church (http://verbalcommits.com/players/obediah-church)

(http://cdn4.sportngin.com/attachments/roster_player_info/3586/4952/23_-_Weisner_Perez_medium.jpg)
Weisner Perez: 6'6, 205 SF from Morton (IL)
Offers from ALL OF THE IVIES (and PATRIOTZ)
http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1419.msg43225#msg43225 (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1419.msg43225#msg43225)

(https://ct.yimg.com/mr/uploads/978/1326638.jpg)
Cortez Seales: 6'4, 180 PG from North Scott (IA)
Offers from LaSalle, Drake, WKU, N Dak, UNI
http://verbalcommits.com/players/cortez-seales (http://verbalcommits.com/players/cortez-seales)


Group 1: They have offers.  Will they sign them?
(http://d6673sr63mbv7.cloudfront.net/archive/x964898913/g0a00000000000000006c9c05aeeed1e29268a3f9fc9804a41d235cf356.jpg)
Seth Adelsperger: 6'11, 230 C from Peru (IN)
Visited for Murray St game; had in-home visit in April.
Analysis:  http://www.news-sentinel.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20140715/SPORTS/140719785/1013 (http://www.news-sentinel.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20140715/SPORTS/140719785/1013)
Offers from (besides us) BSU, Loyola, Ind St, Belmont
http://verbalcommits.com/players/seth-adelsperger (http://verbalcommits.com/players/seth-adelsperger)

(http://www.hcsportsdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/PhotoIndiana-from-Nichols1-282x300.jpg)
Matt Holba: 6'7, 200 SF from St. Theodora Guerin (IN) 2.5 star recruit!
Analysis:  http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1419.msg32277#msg32277 (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1419.msg32277#msg32277)
Offers from (besides us) Toledo, PSU, W&M, Ohio, Providence, Iowa (interest no offer)
http://verbalcommits.com/players/matt-holba (http://verbalcommits.com/players/matt-holba)

(http://posttrib.suntimes.com/csp/cms/sites/dt.common.streams.StreamServer.cls?STREAMOID=S5e1BVSnYf2RFvwEM5TCVM$daE2N3K4ZzOUsqbU5sYuDWZxAgv3DFU1nc1OhVFgm6FB40xiOfUoExWL3M40tfzssyZqpeG_J0TFo7ZhRaDiHC9oxmioMlYVJD0A$3RbIiibgT65kY_CSDiCiUzvHvODrHApbd6ry6YGl5GGOZrs-&CONTENTTYPE=image/jpeg)
Davon Dillard: 6'5, 205 SF from Bowman (IN)  3 star recruit; #125 in nation!
Analysis:  definitely talented; where's his head at, though?  He attacked a teammate this past season; his coach, not exactly the vice-principal of disciplinarians, sat him on multiple occasions...
Offers from (besides us) Iowa, Marquette, Bradley, NIU, PU, Creighton, Providence
http://verbalcommits.com/players/davon-dillard (http://verbalcommits.com/players/davon-dillard)

(http://media.247sports.com/Uploads/Assets/194/606/4_606194.jpg)
Nick Rogers: 6'1, 170 PG from Indy (some 'HS' called Elev8 Sports?)  2.3 star recruit!
Visited VU in April 2013.
Analysis:  http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1419.msg32884#msg32884 (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1419.msg32884#msg32884)
Offers from (besides us) WKU, OSU, USF, WIU, Ohio, Tennessee, Loyola, NIU, KSU, Ole Miss, Kennesaw St, Toledo, UWM, UIC, ISU, IUPUI, Nebraska, Indiana St, UNCW, LaSalle

(https://ct.yimg.com/mr/IMAGES/PROSPECT/PHOTO/ERICK-LOCKE_4_29_150.JPG)
Erick Locke: 6', 180 PG from Chicago now prepping at SPIRE Academy in OH
Analysis:  http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1421.msg32284#msg32284 (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1421.msg32284#msg32284)
Sound familiar?  Was 2014 (first post in that recruiting thread) but has reclassified.  http://www.highschoolcubenews.com/news_article/show/398714-oprf-graduate-erick-locke-will-enroll-in-prep-school (http://www.highschoolcubenews.com/news_article/show/398714-oprf-graduate-erick-locke-will-enroll-in-prep-school)
Offers from (besides us) Chicago St, UIC

(http://scout.imgix.net/130/1307843.jpg)
Devin Cannady: 6', 170 PG from Mishawaka Marian (IN)
Offers from (besides us) a ton of people; HE's most interested in Ohio, Akron, Toledo, IUPUI, and Cornell
http://verbalcommits.com/blog/cannady-plays-his-game (http://verbalcommits.com/blog/cannady-plays-his-game)

(http://media.247sports.com/Uploads/Assets/109/327/1327109.jpg)
Dequon Miller: 5'11, 165 PG from Motlow St. CC (juco)
In-home visit April '14
Offers from (besides us) UT-PanAm, N Az, Ole Miss, Kennesaw St, WKU, EMU, N Tex, Tenn St, EKU, Tenn, E Tenn St, Ark St
COLLECT ALL THE TENNESSEES!
http://verbalcommits.com/players/dequon-miller (http://verbalcommits.com/players/dequon-miller)

Don't all comment at once now.

Presented without comment:
http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/28753415-556/boys-basketball-bowman-standout-davon-dillard-leaving-bowman-for-la-lumiere.html#.U8svglagEkE (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/28753415-556/boys-basketball-bowman-standout-davon-dillard-leaving-bowman-for-la-lumiere.html#.U8svglagEkE)

...

OK can't resist.  She calls Hutton to break the story?  The guy that posted her son's police report on the web?
http://blogs.post-trib.com/hutton/2014/01/gary-police-report-on-bowmans-.html (http://blogs.post-trib.com/hutton/2014/01/gary-police-report-on-bowmans-.html)

w/e

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on July 19, 2014, 10:00:37 PM
Don't all comment at once now.

Presented without comment:
http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/28753415-556/boys-basketball-bowman-standout-davon-dillard-leaving-bowman-for-la-lumiere.html#.U8svglagEkE (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/28753415-556/boys-basketball-bowman-standout-davon-dillard-leaving-bowman-for-la-lumiere.html#.U8svglagEkE)

...

OK can't resist.  She calls Hutton to break the story?  The guy that posted her son's police report on the web?
http://blogs.post-trib.com/hutton/2014/01/gary-police-report-on-bowmans-.html (http://blogs.post-trib.com/hutton/2014/01/gary-police-report-on-bowmans-.html)

w/e

OK, what does have to do with Valpo??

...

seriously?

...
i just...

i don't even know, man.

like literally TWO posts ago. (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1419.msg45980#msg45980)

if you put things two places people are more likely to read them.  plus it makes the blog look nicer.

http://www.valpofanzone.com/2014/07/21/recruiting-a-look-at-the-2015-prospects/ (http://www.valpofanzone.com/2014/07/21/recruiting-a-look-at-the-2015-prospects/)

Here's the new content:
You may have noticed (on purpose) three of the recruits–one in each group–wearing the same jersey.  Julian Torres, Weisner Perez, and Davon Dillard all play for the same AAU team–the Mac Irvin Fire.  Based in Chicago, this is just the third year for a program that boasted #2 pick Jabari Parker, Duke's incoming mammoth Jahlil Okafor, and now stars the über-recruited Jalen Brunson.  (One-time target, now UMass commit Luwane Pipkins is also a teammate–so certainly this team is promising territory for all Chicagoland D1s.)

Looking at their just-concluded appearance at the 2014 {sponsor deleted} Peach Jam in Atlanta, Dillard started all 5 games; Julian Torres 3.  Perez did not start but appeared in 4 games, and actually played more than Torres, who only logged 29 minutes over 5 games.

Dillard averaged 17 mpg, 5th on the team and scored 35 pts, also 5th, with a high game of 18.  Perez scored 13 with a high of 8, and Torres managed 6 pts in 5 games.  While it may not seem like much, on a stacked team, it's still better to be 9th man in a 9-man rotation when there are 11 on the roster.

We'll want to keep an eye on the Fire both now and in the future.

Good points on the non-starters.  Our own Jubril Adekoya was a roll player of sorts on his AAU team which was loaded with high profile talent. 

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on July 16, 2014, 03:29:24 PM

Devin Cannady: 6', 170 PG from Mishawaka Marian (IN)
Offers from (besides us) a ton of people; HE's most interested in Ohio, Akron, Toledo, IUPUI, and Cornell
http://verbalcommits.com/blog/cannady-plays-his-game (http://verbalcommits.com/blog/cannady-plays-his-game)

Cannady To Play His Game
By Jamie Shaw - July 4, 2014 3:14 PM EDT   It has been a busy month of June for Marian High School guard Devin Cannady. The 6'1 Cannady logged in miles taking visits, "I visited Butler and all the regional schools that have offered me."

At this point the Spiece Indy guard has offers from UNCW, Valpo, Akron, Cornell, Ohio, Ball St, Florida Gulf Coast, Old Dominion, Northern Illinois, IUPUI, Bradley, Central Michigan, and Toledo. Cannady says that other schools will be keeping close tabs on him in July, "If I am playing my game (in July) I should get Butler, Princeton, and St Louis, maybe some B1G and ACC schools too."

Cannady has a good idea of visits and time frames, "I won't have any more visits until I schedule my officials in August." He also stats that some schools are sticking out above the others, "Ohio, Akron, Toledo, IUPUI, and Cornell are recruiting me the hardest right now." At the end of the day Cannady says he knows what he wants in a program, "I'm looking for coaching stability, academic prestige, playing time, and how they develop players."

-------

Cannady has recently picked up offers from St. Joe's and Rice.  Cannady is quoted "I'm looking for coaching stability, academic prestige, playing time, and how they develop players."  If so, I'd think that Valpo would fit that criteria, especially compared to four of the five Cannady mentions as recruiting him hard right now.  Although, with Williams, Walker and Joseph already on the VU roster, playing time might be limited, but the challenge would be superior to what most other programs could offer. 

Big man Seth Adelsperger has committed to Belmont. Sorry to lose out on him.

Double that here.  Ensmingers don't grow on trees :(

Still plenty of time to change your mind, Seth!

Quote from: valpopal on July 27, 2014, 08:48:36 PM
Big man Seth Adelsperger has committed to Belmont. Sorry to lose out on him.

We need to now start recruiting another big.  The Belmont staff must have really recruited him hard. 

Quote from: covufan on July 28, 2014, 12:50:16 PMThe Belmont staff must have really recruited him hard.

No doubt...especially considering we're just an hour and a half away.  Belmont?  ...hop a plane, parents.  Or enjoy the 12-hour round trip.

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on July 28, 2014, 04:00:00 PM

Quote from: covufan on July 28, 2014, 12:50:16 PMThe Belmont staff must have really recruited him hard.

No doubt...especially considering we're just an hour and a half away.  Belmont?  ...hop a plane, parents.  Or enjoy the 12-hour round trip.

We're going to Nashville for the Thanksgiving Challenge in Music City tournament. With the 12 hours driving round trip this doesn't seem like such a horrible trip. We may even stop at Hinkle Fieldhouse on the way to break up the trip.

Actually, I have a road trip to Washington DC planned for August and I'm thinking of some stops along the way. I'm hearing the Flight 93 Memorial in rural Pennsylvania is worth the slight detour. Anybody seen it?

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on July 28, 2014, 04:00:00 PM

Quote from: covufan on July 28, 2014, 12:50:16 PMThe Belmont staff must have really recruited him hard.

No doubt...especially considering we're just an hour and a half away.  Belmont?  ...hop a plane, parents.  Or enjoy the 12-hour round trip.

I think the loss of Mac Mercer? (2014 Plymouth HS) to Belmont was the greater loss, and might have influenced this kids decision towards that direction. At this point even a big man project type player might be a welcome addition.

Really?  Are they tight?  I know Mack and Clay Yeo were tight and I'm sorry that didn't have more effect on him; although that didn't end up working out either.

Quote from: justducky on July 30, 2014, 04:26:19 PM

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on July 28, 2014, 04:00:00 PM

Quote from: covufan on July 28, 2014, 12:50:16 PMThe Belmont staff must have really recruited him hard.

No doubt...especially considering we're just an hour and a half away.  Belmont?  ...hop a plane, parents.  Or enjoy the 12-hour round trip.

I think the loss of Mac Mercer? (2014 Plymouth HS) to Belmont was the greater loss, and might have influenced this kids decision towards that direction. At this point even a big man project type player might be a welcome addition.

Whomever on the Belmont staff that is in charge of recruiting Indiana is doing quite a job.  Keeping Adelsperger and Mercer from Valpo, among other Indiana instituitions, is quite the sales pitch, given the commute for family, etc.

[tweet]500251205017542656[/tweet]

About the 3d Off Set he showed that he should be good getting called for the HL moving pick, so he's got that going for him. Didn't see any mid-range jumpers. Lots of left hand around basket. Shoots FTs RH. Should be solid player and contributor. Didn't really see anything up and down the court. Seems to understand game. Small sample size.

Good post moves, rim rattling dunks:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSeuuOEm4m4#t=12 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSeuuOEm4m4#t=12)

wh, I've found that you can embed simply by taking the "s" out of "https", like so:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSeuuOEm4m4#t=12 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSeuuOEm4m4#t=12)

Great tip - thanks!

Really liked what I saw in the second video. Nice angles, decent footwork, good left hand and a soft shot.

I'm sure some of our former players think there is No(r)way he is good enough for VALPO and that he should Finnish his education in Scandinavia.  :-[  ;)

Quote from: vusupporter on August 19, 2014, 03:21:28 PM
Johannes Dolvan PF is currently travelling to Drake and Valaparaiso via........

He's not coming to Valpo. He's going to Valapo.

You know I could understand that mistake if the writer were No(r)waygian.

PG Devin Cannady, who had an offer from Valpo, has committed to Princeton. Though a very good player, I don't think that's much of a loss since the Crusaders will need big men as recruits next year.

Quote from: valpopal on August 19, 2014, 10:41:13 PMPG Devin Cannady, who had an offer from Valpo, has committed to Princeton. Though a very good player, I don't think that's much of a loss since the Crusaders will need big men as recruits next year.

And we have enough Cannadians on the team already, aaaaaaaahh?

Oh heck yes, let's get a Norwegian at Valpo!  I would love to have the Motherland representing on my college team :)

Quote from: historyman on August 19, 2014, 11:51:41 PM

Quote from: valpopal on August 19, 2014, 10:41:13 PMPG Devin Cannady, who had an offer from Valpo, has committed to Princeton. Though a very good player, I don't think that's much of a loss since the Crusaders will need big men as recruits next year.

And we have enough Cannadians on the team already, aaaaaaaahh?

Yes, we knew the Cannadian would be more likely to have loyalty to Princeton then a school related to krauts. Although the new Duchess of Cambridge is quite a looker. Does the Princess spend much time with her son, the third in line? 

Actually kind of have to give Hutton props for this one:

http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/29584632-556/hutton-wait-before-you-tweet.html#.VAKH2EugEkF (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/29584632-556/hutton-wait-before-you-tweet.html#.VAKH2EugEkF)

QuoteDavon Dillard. Dillard's mother, Kaliah Baker, broke the news to me that Dillard was going to La Lumiere. Dillard's mother wanted him to go to La Lumiere. I'm convinced of that. The coaches wanted him to go. Their assistant coach, Brad Johnstin, re-tweeted the story after we posted it.

A funny thing happened after the story went up online. I got a call from someone affiliated with the program asking us to soften the part of the story that described a fight that Dillard was involved in at Bowman. He was a good kid and he didn't deserve to have that hanging over him.

We agreed on the fact he was a good kid, but we left it (the incident) in. It was at the bottom, it was two lines and it essentially was for context as to why he might've been leaving.

I got another curious call later from someone else. Dillard's admission to La Lumiere could be in jeopardy because of that story, which for the most part just detailed the reasons for his move. Please reconsider removing the line.

We didn't.

Turns out, that while the La Lumiere coaches wanted him to go, there were reservations from other school personnel about his qualifications for admission.

He never admitted.

Do I feel badly for him? Yes, but I hold the coaches at La Lumiere responsible. They needed to be up front with him and his mother about potential complications with the process.

I wonder--does this mean he tucks tail and heads back to Bowman?  And is this really something/someone Bryce wants to get involved in?!?

A walk-on addition:

http://valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/news/2014-15/13848/levingston-simon-joins-crusader-mens-basketball-program/#.VAZPf_ldUTA (http://valpoathletics.com/mbasketball/news/2014-15/13848/levingston-simon-joins-crusader-mens-basketball-program/#.VAZPf_ldUTA)

LAA beat you to this in a separate thread back on August 22. But good to see the valpo Athletics story confirming it.

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 02, 2014, 06:27:44 PM
LAA beat you to this in a separate thread back on August 22. But good to see the valpo Atletics story confirming it.

Well, I hate losing to LAA, but he didn't scoop the official announcement did he??   ;)

While I appreciate the thought, it was actually vufan75, right?

hang on i'll check...

...

yep

http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1898.0 (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1898.0)

Yep. It was I with the original scoop. Though to be fair I did not use full last name. I used only  Levingston and not Levingston Simon. So 72 should get some credit for using what apparently is the "full" last name.  ;)

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on September 02, 2014, 07:36:48 PM
While I appreciate the thought, it was actually vufan75, right?

hang on i'll check...

...

I hate it when you make us wait like that to look up an answer. Could you have your answer ready before you hit the reply key? My time is money!


http://etribuneblogs.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/angry-senior-man-looking-and-pointing-at-his-watch-isolated-on-white-background-not-in-time-too.jpg?w=600 (http://etribuneblogs.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/angry-senior-man-looking-and-pointing-at-his-watch-isolated-on-white-background-not-in-time-too.jpg?w=600)

Sure; as soon as you learn to embed.

(http://etribuneblogs.files.wordpress.com/2013/12/angry-senior-man-looking-and-pointing-at-his-watch-isolated-on-white-background-not-in-time-too.jpg?w=600)

Oh, I know how to embed, if you know what I mean:





(http://t.fod4.com/t/70ca308603/c480x270_23.jpg)

Quote from: bbtds on September 03, 2014, 03:49:21 PMOh, I know how to embed, if you know what I mean:


  (http://t.fod4.com/t/70ca308603/c480x270_23.jpg)

bbtds really nailed that one, right between the eyes


or that's an interesting form of acupuncture.

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on September 03, 2014, 08:50:04 AM
Sure; as soon as you learn to embed.

(http://img.bleacherreport.net/img/images/photos/002/820/292/b8f0025be79168f3df48ad70de80aeb1_crop_north.jpg?w=630&h=420&q=75)

(http://cf.badassdigest.com/_uploads/images/15417/nooooooooooo__span.jpg)

Surprised to hear Matt Holba has committed to Lehigh.

The Crusaders have extended an offer to 6'11" Rokas Ulvydas, a Lithuanian attending Mt. Zion Prep. Also, Valpo was to visit and watch 7'0" Derrik Smits today.

Quote from: valpopal on September 16, 2014, 02:43:03 PM
The Crusaders have extended an offer to 6'11" Rokas Ulvydas, a Lithuanian attending Mt. Zion Prep. Also, Valpo was to visit and watch 7'0" Derrik Smits today.

Smits might be a tough get.  He is a 3 star wholding an IU offer.

Ulvydas is a 2 star with an offer from Towson.

Hey, I'd take the Lithuanian!  When you see the name, you wonder if the other kid is related to Rik Smits.  Then you Google, and look, his son!

http://247sports.com/Player/Derrik-Smits-20911 (http://247sports.com/Player/Derrik-Smits-20911)

Quote from: valpotx on September 16, 2014, 03:14:01 PM
Hey, I'd take the Lithuanian!  When you see the name, you wonder if the other kid is related to Rik Smits.  Then you Google, and look, his son!

http://247sports.com/Player/Derrik-Smits-20911 (http://247sports.com/Player/Derrik-Smits-20911)

Are you saying that Valpo is trying to get it's Smits together? About time! And the son of a former Pacer to boot.

He would be our first real German since Fumey never did play. Or am I forgetting someone?

Quote from: valpopal on September 16, 2014, 02:43:03 PM
The Crusaders have extended an offer to 6'11" Rokas Ulvydas, a Lithuanian attending Mt. Zion Prep. Also, Valpo was to visit and watch 7'0" Derrik Smits today.

Is Tony Vilcinskas the last (only?) Lithuanian to play for Valpo?  I see Tony's and Ulvydas' hometowns are only 60 miles apart.

Quote from: bbtds on September 16, 2014, 04:00:10 PM

Quote from: valpotx on September 16, 2014, 03:14:01 PM
Hey, I'd take the Lithuanian!  When you see the name, you wonder if the other kid is related to Rik Smits.  Then you Google, and look, his son!

http://247sports.com/Player/Derrik-Smits-20911 (http://247sports.com/Player/Derrik-Smits-20911)

Are you saying that Valpo is trying to get it's Smits together? About time! And the son of a former Pacer to boot.

He would be our first real German since Fumey never did play. Or am I forgetting someone?

His dad "the Flying Dutchman" might take offense to that.   ;)

Quote from: wh on September 16, 2014, 06:19:02 PM

Quote from: bbtds on September 16, 2014, 04:00:10 PM

Quote from: valpotx on September 16, 2014, 03:14:01 PM
Hey, I'd take the Lithuanian!  When you see the name, you wonder if the other kid is related to Rik Smits.  Then you Google, and look, his son!

http://247sports.com/Player/Derrik-Smits-20911 (http://247sports.com/Player/Derrik-Smits-20911)

Are you saying that Valpo is trying to get it's Smits together? About time! And the son of a former Pacer to boot.

He would be our first real German since Fumey never did play. Or am I forgetting someone?

His dad "the Flying Dutchman" might take offense to that.   ;)

Well, that's embarrassing. I really thought Smits was german. It's all grieken to me.

So do you think the Broekhoff/Van Wijk connection could help with this one or probably just Bryce and the pastor.

Actually Wiki says he was the "Dunkin' Dutchman" which makes a bit more sense (except if you look at his life after the NBA).
Rik Smits (born August 23, 1966) is a retired Dutch professional basketball player who spent his entire professional career with the Indiana Pacers of the National Basketball Association. The 7'4" (2.24 m) center was drafted by the Pacers out of Marist College with the second overall pick in the 1988 NBA Draft. The Dutch-born player was nicknamed "The Dunkin' Dutchman".

Can you believe this?
Life after the NBA
In his retirement, Smits is devoting his time to collecting and racing vintage motocross motorcycles. On November 30, 2011, the erstwhile Marist and Pacers center was featured in a www.LostLetterman.com (http://www.lostletterman.com) article, via Yahoo! Sports, about his formal participation in competitive motorcross racing.

I can't imagine a 7'4 guy on a motocross bike -- at least not a regulation size one.

We had KVW and a current Dutchmen!

Now that I've thought about it Derrik Smits is no different than many of us who were raised in Indiana most of our lives.

I remember Rik doing an episode of Parks and Rec.

I think the Smits still live here in Indy.

Derrik's citizenship is American, no?

(http://cdn.meme.li/instances/500x/54445521.jpg)

Quote from: vusupporter on August 19, 2014, 03:21:28 PM
[tweet]500251205017542656[/tweet]

Valpo lost out to Drake, as this player committed to Drake back late in August.  :(

Quote from: vufan75 on September 18, 2014, 06:41:48 AM

Quote from: vusupporter on August 19, 2014, 03:21:28 PM
[tweet]500251205017542656[/tweet]

Valpo lost out to Drake, as this player committed to Drake back late in August.  :(

I guess Drake looked like a better campus than Valaparaiso did?

Quote from: valporun on September 19, 2014, 12:04:13 AMI guess Drake looked like a better campus than Valaparaiso did?

(https://i.chzbgr.com/maxW500/2030562560/h280B3424/)

I'll see your 6'8" Norwegian, and raise you a 6'11" Lithuanian :)

Quote from: valporun on September 19, 2014, 12:04:13 AM

Quote from: vufan75 on September 18, 2014, 06:41:48 AM

Quote from: vusupporter on August 19, 2014, 03:21:28 PM
[tweet]500251205017542656[/tweet]

Valpo lost out to Drake, as this player committed to Drake back late in August.  :(

I guess Drake looked like a better campus than Valaparaiso did?

He started from the bottom, now he's there.

Gosh I've missed you guys.

Never change.

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on September 19, 2014, 11:35:37 AM
Gosh I've missed you guys.

Never change.

Irish some people wouldn't go looking for lucky charms. There's magically delicious things in America too.


(http://www.adweek.com/files/imagecache/node-blog/blogs/lucky_charms_auto-tune.jpg)

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on July 21, 2013, 07:39:13 PM
Meh:  Chris Palombizio to Western Michigan
http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/21439254-556/boys-basketball-chris-palombizio-commits-to-wmu.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/21439254-556/boys-basketball-chris-palombizio-commits-to-wmu.html)

Money quote:  "I always wanted to play in the MAC."

I know you guys think I make up a lot of stuff to be funny, but I sure am not making THAT up.

I see he just de-committed from WMU.  Don't know if Valpo would have any interest or not.  Doesn't seem like Bryce is too interested in recruiting Indiana kids, so I doubt anything happens here.

Quote from: EddieCabot on September 23, 2014, 09:49:19 PM

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on July 21, 2013, 07:39:13 PM
Meh:  Chris Palombizio to Western Michigan
http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/21439254-556/boys-basketball-chris-palombizio-commits-to-wmu.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/21439254-556/boys-basketball-chris-palombizio-commits-to-wmu.html)

Money quote:  "I always wanted to play in the MAC."

I know you guys think I make up a lot of stuff to be funny, but I sure am not making THAT up.

I see he just de-committed from WMU.  Don't know if Valpo would have any interest or not.  Doesn't seem like Bryce is too interested in recruiting Indiana kids, so I doubt anything happens here.

I guess Chris didn't want to play in Kalamazoo and the MAC that bad.   ;)

Quote from: EddieCabot on September 23, 2014, 09:49:19 PMsee he just de-committed from WMU.  Don't know if Valpo would have any interest or not.  Doesn't seem like Bryce is too interested in recruiting Indiana kids, so I doubt anything happens here.

Just for clarification there are always some Indiana kids who draw his interest and always some that well------------------------ maybe not. I think there is a good chance that Palombizio might fall into that second category, but that is just my speculation.

It appears that he de-committed after taking his official visit this past weekend:

https://twitter.com/INBBallSource/status/513057746061516801

His basketball life seems to have taken quite a few twists and turns.  He broke his foot at the end of his junior year and was out of commission for several weeks.  His AAU coach was quoted as saying that he had picked up some weight, needed to work on his quickness, needed to develop a mid-range jump shot off the dribble, etc.  Prior to his junior year he announced that he was leaving Chesterton to play for some prep school in Indy.  Then he changed his mind and decided to stay in Chesterton.  Then he committed to play for WMU and now de-commits. 

I'm not judging him for changing his mind.  It's not easy to figure out future plans when you're 17 or 18 years old (or much older than that for some).  If I were advising him, I would encourage him to play out his senior season and see what his options are then before making another decision.  I could be wrong, but at this point I think a lot of D-1 schools will be taking the same wait-and-see approach.

Quote from: EddieCabot on September 23, 2014, 09:49:19 PMDoesn't seem like Bryce is too interested in throwing away scholarships, so I doubt anything happens here.

fixed it for you

I have to agree with wh on this one. Wait to see what Palombizio does this season before getting caught up in recruiting him. Sure, give him a letter or two showing interest, but don't go betting the farm on this kid until he's played some games, and shown some senior in high school level basketball acumen. If his AAU coach says that he needs to develop a mid-range jumper, either it means he likes to play out on the perimeter, or only within 5 feet of the rim. If he can't get a shot from the wing extended, then he might not be the kind of player that we need because he might be afraid to get inside and be physical to draw fouls. wh, am I hitting on a fundamental problem of most of today's basketball players yet, in saying they are afraid of being fouled because they don't want to get hurt, or maybe aren't great free throw shooters?

I'd be shocked if Valparaiso started recruiting him. Shocked.

Derrik Smits visited campus today and was offered a scholarship. I have got my fingers crossed.  ;)

There are just so many great opportunities for the Zoo Cru, or The VU Crew, or whatever they're called this month, if he signs here.

When his dad comes to visit, t-shirts that read "Smits Happen".

...thinking...

...ok, just one great opportunity.

Dude could be another RAITIS.

The one big sell we have for him is that he would probably play immediately.  I am still surprised that someone with an IU offer, is still visiting VU

Quote from: valpopal on September 27, 2014, 08:03:45 PM
Derrik Smits visited campus today and was offered a scholarship. I have got my fingers crossed.  ;)

Quote from: valpotx on September 27, 2014, 08:49:29 PM
The one big sell we have for him is that he would probably play immediately.  I am still surprised that someone with an IU offer, is still visiting VU

This would be a great catch!  Was thinking the same as valpotx for playing time, and also recalling the IU offer.  According to Verbal Commits:

http://www.verbalcommits.com/players/derrik-smits (http://www.verbalcommits.com/players/derrik-smits)

maybe the IU offer was taken off the plate? 

DRAT I WASN'T EVEN FIRST ... TONIGHT

[tweet]516017894095065089[/tweet]

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on September 27, 2014, 09:37:36 PM
DRAT I WASN'T EVEN FIRST ... TONIGHT

[tweet]516017894095065089[/tweet]

It happened a lomg time ago when Rik was with the Pacers.


(http://a3.img.mobypicture.com/0bba17d17746f0ca9db60303323b6128_view.jpg)

Well at least I improved it slightly.

There's another thing that no one has brought up.   Rik Smitts played at Marist, a mid-major, and had a great collegiate career at a smallish private, D-I college, yet still made a name for himself.  Being a larger fish in a small pond sometimes works better than having to compete exposure-wise on the grander stage of the BIG 5 world.  Could be that  Dad could have a positive influence here -- if he chose to.  And playing immediately would be the frosting on the cake.

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 29, 2014, 01:17:27 PM
There's another thing that no one has brought up.   Rick Smitts played at Marist, a mid-major, and had a great collegiate career at a smallish private, D-I college, yet still made a name for himself.  Being a larger fish in a small pond sometimes works better than having to compete exposure-wise on the grander stage of the BIG 5 world.  Could be that  Dad could have a positive influence here -- if he chose to.  And playing immediately would be the frosting on the cake.

I have a feeling Rik's take might be opposite since so few of his teammates went to smaller schools.

I always remember that Scottie Pippen went to CENTRAL ARKANSAS.  GO BEARS!!!

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 29, 2014, 01:17:27 PMRik Smits played at Marist

SO you're SAYING we should THROW THE FOOTBALL GAME to get in GOOD with the DAD?

BRILLIANT i concur.

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on September 29, 2014, 05:19:26 PM

Quote from: VULB#62 on September 29, 2014, 01:17:27 PMRik Smits played at Marist

SO you're SAYING we should THROW THE FOOTBALL GAME to get in GOOD with the DAD?

BRILLIANT i concur.

Best thing to do is play under control, with sportsmanship and respect and OUTSMART the RED FOXES!!!!

How about just "THROW THE FOOTBALL?"

Perhaps a positive indication? Pacer great Rik Smits sighted attending Valpo Volleyball's win over Youngstown State this evening! Might be at football game tomorrow.

Quote from: valpopal on October 03, 2014, 09:54:59 PM
Perhaps a positive indication? Pacer great Rik Smits sighted attending Valpo Volleyball's win over Youngstown State this evening! Might be at football game tomorrow.

Is he the tall man I saw standing with members of the BB team early in the match?  He towered over all of them, including Luke Gore.

Well, if he looked 7'4", it was probably him ;-).

Maybe he has a daughter that is 6'6" and wants to play volleyball at VU?  Wouldn't that be fantastic lol. 

It would make sense for him to be at the football game tomorrow, with his undergrad team playing one of the schools that offered his son.

Quote from: valpotx on October 04, 2014, 02:21:18 AM
Well, if he looked 7'4", it was probably him ;-).

Maybe he has a daughter that is 6'6" and wants to play volleyball at VU?  Wouldn't that be fantastic lol. 

It would make sense for him to be at the football game tomorrow, with his undergrad team playing one of the schools that offered his son.

Better than that, maybe he has a 6-8 (and still growing) H.S. sophomore nephew Cassius Smits, who lives with the Smits and played on the Zionsville varsity last season as a Freshman. Imagine - 7' Derrik becomes a Crusader next year, 7' (by then) Cassius joins the team 2 years later, and the "twin towers" take us to to new "heights" of glory.

I DUB THEM DOUBLE DUTCH

Derrik Smits tweet:

Official to Valpo this weekend been fun

[tweet]514484514249535489[/tweet]

[tweet]515887024562511872[/tweet]

[tweet]516004016724402176[/tweet]

[tweet]518465643663069184[/tweet]

Just FTR, I'm not on Twitter...but if I were I would be retweeting or favoriting his Valpo tweets to show him some love.

I would not however be interacting with him because that would just be creepy (witness the one guy on the Valpo visit saying "when is gonzaga?").  Being a creepy stalker of teenage boys is just...well...creepy and actually backfires.

...come to think of it, I'm going to make a fake account pretending to be a fan of schools we're competing with and say creepy things to recruits.  REVERSE PSYCH'd

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on October 04, 2014, 02:04:44 PM
Just FTR, I'm not on Twitter...but if I were I would be retweeting or favoriting his Valpo tweets to show him some love.

I would not however be interacting with him because that would just be creepy (witness the one guy on the Valpo visit saying "when is gonzaga?").  Being a creepy stalker of teenage boys is just...well...creepy and actually backfires.

...come to think of it, I'm going to make a fake account pretending to be a fan of schools we're competing with and say creepy things to recruits.  REVERSE PSYCH'd

...come to think of it, I'm going to make a fake account pretending to be a fan of schools we're competing with and say creepy things to recruits.  REVERSE PSYCH'd  ;)

There, I fixed it for you.

Here is my photo of Rik Smits watching the football game today with Coaches Drew and Powell.

(http://i60.tinypic.com/j7bvvq.jpg)

Quote from: valpopal on October 04, 2014, 04:31:52 PM
Here is my photo of Rik Smits watching the football game today with Coaches Drew and Powell.

(http://i60.tinypic.com/j7bvvq.jpg)

Was the lady sitting down or maybe standing in a pothole?

Coach Rik Smits anyone? ;)  Come on, other colleges do it!

I walked by Rik at the FB game.  You just cannot comprehend what it is like to stand/walk by someone who is 7'4".

By all appearances, he was pleasant and engaging.  Very relaxed.  Added to his typical stuff with Bryce, Rik and family also walked around with Mark L who showed him some of the other facilities.

later, I wanted to see the inside of the new Welcome Center after the game and went over there for the first time -- beautiful and impressive inside.  It's actually the admissions center where all the admissions work is done.  The term "welcome center" doesn't really describe it's true function. Anyway, I bumped into Barbara Lieske, Director of Admissions.  I was impressed with the place and I asked her if the Smitts had seen to the Welcome Center.  She said not this weekend, but they were there last weekend for an "unofficial visit"  and within hours booked their official visit for the following weekend.   I think Valpo is in the running.

Wouldn't it be great to get both the 7'0" Smits, and the 6'10" Lithuanian?  We would also have 6'9" Peters, 6'8" Skara, and a few other folks.  Ah, the old days of when I was in school, when we threw the ball down your throat with big dudes :)

I dunno.  I think we need some more guards.














;)

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on October 06, 2014, 07:49:51 AM
I dunno.  I think we need some more guards.

(http://media-2.web.britannica.com/eb-media/33/94133-004-7C39F857.jpg)

OR

(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2012/7/12/1342100602906/revolutionary-guards-008.jpg)

Now we know why everyone was smiling.  :)

Quote from: valpopal on October 04, 2014, 04:31:52 PM

(http://i60.tinypic.com/j7bvvq.jpg)

Quote from: VULB#62 on October 05, 2014, 10:59:41 PM
I walked by Rik at the FB game.  You just cannot comprehend what it is like to stand/walk by someone who is 7'4".
they were there last weekend for an "unofficial visit"  and within hours booked their official visit for the following weekend.   I think Valpo is in the running.

Told ya so!

Hard to believe, but with Smits' commitment we are down to one scholarship in this class!

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AlQ2tPhus3WCdElfelJobS1BOXVfU09YU19UbENmdWc&pli=1#gid=0

Of course, that presumes no attrition, which, as has been mentioned, often seems to happen and when you least expect it.

Also added a position chart that helps visualize what positions are stocked when...kind of like Verbal Commits, but not including all the attrition, getting the Canadians right, etc.

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on October 07, 2014, 02:59:07 AMHard to believe, but with Smits' commitment we are down to one scholarship in this class!

So what do we most need for that last remaining scholarship? Would a Ritchie Edwards type (backup forward and center) JC transfer be the best way to fill the remaining gaps? How about another true center who is an acknowledged project? Perhaps we should just stick with the best available player regardless of position. In the 15-16 season can any of our current personnel fill in the 15 minutes (or more) when Smits is on the bench?

Looking at that spreadsheet, we have 3 of "each" at the 1 through the 4.

And obviously some 2s can 1, or 3s can 4, etc. 

One of the few that can't "or" is your 5, though, you're right.  (Some can "4" but look at Monroe and Drummond having trouble coexisting in Detroit.)

Maybe for those 10-15 minutes he's sitting down, though, we just go small?  With Peters, Adekoya, and 3 guards?

You're always looking for height, but I think Bryce and Co. would take the BPA, as the draft adage goes.

http://verbalcommits.com/players/daniel-relvao (http://verbalcommits.com/players/daniel-relvao)

Sounds like a good big body pickup. 2015 class has some size to it for sure.

Daniel Relvao 6'9 235lb Class of 2015- 2013-14 Jr Season Highlights Mountain Mission (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKnPlQawhU8#ws)

   

Quote from: Pgmado on October 14, 2014, 09:23:26 PM
http://verbalcommits.com/players/daniel-relvao (http://verbalcommits.com/players/daniel-relvao)

At first glance he appears to be a project power forward with enough skills at center that he might immediately be a viable backup center for Smits.

A 7 footer followed by 6-9/230.  LOVE the pick up!  Welcome to Valpo, Daniel!

Foreign big body with a high motor and a flat hook shot... Give this guy a scooter, some tattoos, and a physical therapist!

Description of 6'9 with 7'3" wing span appears to be accurate.  He is very long.  Stat line from Junior year not spectacular,  5 PPG   4 RPG   69% FT  and 44% from the floor.  Video showed some potential.

We will cover the globe with basketball alumni in the next 20 years :)

Quote from: justducky on October 14, 2014, 09:51:16 PM

Quote from: Pgmado on October 14, 2014, 09:23:26 PM
http://verbalcommits.com/players/daniel-relvao (http://verbalcommits.com/players/daniel-relvao)

At first glance he appears to be a project power forward with enough skills at center that he might immediately be a viable backup center for Smits.

Actually think he might be better than Derrik at this point.  He uses both hands and made some very nice passes.  I found a tweet that said he has only been playing basketball for 2 years and was a swimmer.  I think he may be a steal.

FIVE ppg for this guy?

Smits with 3-4 RPG?

Their height is impressive.  Stats, not so much. 

Paul

Quote from: 78crusader on October 15, 2014, 10:43:02 AM
FIVE ppg for this guy?

Smits with 3-4 RPG?

Their height is impressive.  Stats, not so much. 

Paul

I think we need to remeber that the stats you mentioned were from their JUNIOR year in high school.  Derrik in particular is still growing into his body.  This season will be a much better way to evaluate where they are at maturity wise.  I'm guessing both will add weight and much more as they matriculate to Valpo.  These are centers, not point guards.

All due respect, Paul, but if we reviewed your HS stats, would we have projected "successful lawyer" from them, even after you verbally committed to VU? ;)

I suppose this means the Lithuanian (Rokas Ulvydas) is off the table...did you think we'd have "too many forwards" a couple months ago?

...and just like that, 2015 class is full.*  Who'd'a thunk it just a couple weeks ago?

*barring of course decommitments and/or transfers.  you are always recruiting, surely.

The curve shaped by the CDC's available statistics, however, does allow one to estimate the number of American men between the ages of 20 and 40 who are 7 feet or taller: fewer than 70 in all. Which indicates, by further extrapolation, that while the probability of, say, an American between 6'6″ and 6'8″ being an NBA player today stands at a mere 0.07%, it's a staggering 17% for someone 7 feet or taller. - See more at: http://marginalrevolution.com/marginalrevolution/2012/05/what-percentage-of-7-footers-are-in-the-nba.html#sthash.Gm7agZ08.dpuf (http://marginalrevolution.com/marginalrevolution/2012/05/what-percentage-of-7-footers-are-in-the-nba.html#sthash.Gm7agZ08.dpuf)

If there are 70 7-footers in the US over a 20 year age range, that might suggest that there are only 14 between the ages of 18 and 22. The only reason 1 of them landed at a little school in NWI is because he is not yet fully developed as a basketball player. IF that were to occur in the next year or 2, he could well become one of the best players in Valpo basketball history. Even if he's just "good," he will be of great benefit. Last, but not least, he's a 4-year player. When was the last time we had a 4-year, 7-footer?  The potential benefit to The future of Valpo basketball should have every Valpo fan excited.

Antti Nikkila was the last 4 year player at that height, as far as what we listed him at.  He has been listed as 6'11" on his pro teams

Yes, at the moment I have too much time on my hands.  Having said that, I just went through the composite rankings for Derrik's class.  He is ranked 184 in the class.  Of 6'10, 6'11 or 7' and taller players, 6 are five star recruits.  Of players not rated a five star, 9 are rated higher than Derrik. So of the top 184 players, 15 players in his size group are rated higher, 9 at 6'10", 4 at 6'11" and 2 at 7' or taller.   ;D

Quote from: vu72 on October 15, 2014, 11:27:39 AMI think we need to remeber that the stats you mentioned were from their JUNIOR year in high school.  Derrik in particular is still growing into his body.  This season will be a much better way to evaluate where they are at maturity wise.  I'm guessing both will add weight and much more as they matriculate to Valpo.  These are centers, not point guards.

Hard to compare these guys to someone like Deshaun Thomas who was a 6'7" man-child in 9th grade and then never grew another inch.  Really tough to develop certain skills when your body is morphing so dramatically.

Quote from: vu72 on October 15, 2014, 11:27:39 AMI think we need to remeber that the stats you mentioned were from their JUNIOR year in high school.  Derrik in particular is still growing into his body.  This season will be a much better way to evaluate where they are at maturity wise.  I'm guessing both will add weight and much more as they matriculate to Valpo.  These are centers, not point guards.

Thinking backwards-- had Adelsperger committed in July to us instead of Belmont would any of us be talking about either of these two? I am optimistic that maybe someday we could actually owe Seth a word of gracious thanks.   :)

Another swimmer who started playing bball in HS and had a pretty decent college and pro career -- Tim Duncan, Mr Fundamental.

Quote from: justducky on October 15, 2014, 04:00:45 PM

Quote from: vu72 on October 15, 2014, 11:27:39 AMI think we need to remeber that the stats you mentioned were from their JUNIOR year in high school.  Derrik in particular is still growing into his body.  This season will be a much better way to evaluate where they are at maturity wise.  I'm guessing both will add weight and much more as they matriculate to Valpo.  These are centers, not point guards.

Thinking backwards-- had Adelsperger committed in July to us instead of Belmont would any of us be talking about either of these two? I am optimistic that maybe someday we could actually owe Seth a word of gracious thanks.   :)

I don't know a darn thing about the 2 big guys we just picked up.  However, I saw Adelsperger play a couple of times and I was not at all impressed with him.  Perhaps he is somebody who will make great strides at Belmont as he adjusts from his high school growth spurt, but based on what I saw, he will struggle against D1 competition.

It will be interesting to compare stats here in a few years to see how things worked out for us/Belmont.         

Quote from: 78crusader on October 15, 2014, 10:43:02 AM
FIVE ppg for this guy?

Smits with 3-4 RPG?

Their height is impressive.  Stats, not so much. 

Paul

I always remember former Utah Jazz coach Frank Layden when asked about impressive height: "Can't coach 7' 0"", or for that matter 6' 9"!

http://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2013/10/this-is-the-average-mans-body/280194/ (http://www.theatlantic.com/national/archive/2013/10/this-is-the-average-mans-body/280194/)

interesting except perhaps strikes too close to home.  posted here because we need to continue to recruit the DUTCH:

QuoteGeorge Maat, a professor emeritus of anthropology at Leiden University Medical Center in the Netherlands, has said that within another 50 years, the Dutch Todd could be six-foot-three. Several years ago the Netherlands was compelled to increase building code standards for door frames.

(Let's hire KVW to be our Vujic asst/recruiter when his playing days are done)

I did a little more digging on Daniel Relvao and found some encouraging numbers.  In the 2014 U-18 European Championships, he was a significant contributor to the Portugal team.  Over 9 games he averaged 21 minutes and shot 52.5% from the floor and 66.7% from the line.  He averaged 5.2 Rebounds, 3.3 blocks and 8.2 points while comitting 3 fouls on average.  Not too bad for a guy who has been playing basketball for only a couple of years.

He could be a real steal as could Smits.  It will be interesting to watch their stats as the year progresses.

From Mountain Mission's twitter page:

Mtn. Mission Hoops
‏@mmshoops1921
2015 Daniel Relvao with 15pts, 8rbs, 2as, 5blks in our 52:42 win over The Rock!
5:38 PM - 22 Nov 2014

I see Mountain Mission plays a prep school schedule against some very good schools including powerhouse Oak Hill Academy.  I think its also noteworthy that a guy with only 2 years of basketball experience can put up numbers like this at this stage of his development. It will be interesting to check in on Daniel from time to time. 

Twitter http://twitter.com/mmshoops1921 (http://twitter.com/mmshoops1921)

Facebook http://www.facebook.com/mmshoops1921 (http://www.facebook.com/mmshoops1921)

Don't think I had seen this posted.  Here is last years highlight video for Daniel. www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKnPlQawhU8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKnPlQawhU8#ws)
They also have someone who does video highlights of a number of their games.  Here is a recent outing. www.youtube.com/watch?v=PhGgE2wy3kE (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PhGgE2wy3kE#ws)

http://www.team1sports.com/index.php/videoPlayer/view?broadcast=93650 (http://www.team1sports.com/index.php/videoPlayer/view?broadcast=93650)

The Zionsville at Carmel game is on TV 40 WHMB tonight. Carmel is up by 7 points in the 2nd quarter. Sorry, I had missed it earlier.

Zionsville lost 51-37.  Derrik had 19 points, including 16 in the 2nd half.  A very good opening night performance by Derrik against the 3rd ranked team in the state.

A look at the 2015 Horizon League recruiting class: http://hoopniks.com/conference-catch-up-horizon/ (http://hoopniks.com/conference-catch-up-horizon/)

I know we are all keeping an eye on the high school games of Derrik Smits, but here is an update on our other recruit, 6' 9" 240 lb. Daniel Relvao. Relvao may be one of those "projects" who surprise with significant development following arrival at Valpo. From what I have seen on video, I like his footwork, his inside strength, and his medium range shot. After 16 games, Relvao's per game averages: 7 pts. 5 rebs. 50% FG 70% FT

If he can only turn out like another swimmer turned basketball player later in his teens, Tim Duncan :)

Here is a full game of Mountain Mission (Daniel Relvao's school).  I like what I see of him.  A soft touch to 15 feet, good screener, good free throw shooter, good, straight up shot blocker and very good hands.  What we need to remember is Daniel is NOT growing into his body as could be the case with Derrik.  Daniel is a legit 6'9" 240# with a 7'3" wingspan. He just needs some coaching and MUCH better guard play!

vs Hagrave Military (Toyota Classic) on Vimeo (http://vimeo.com/116186393)

Next year's group of "monster-sized" forwards and centers:

Derrik Smits             7-0, 230 lbs
Alec Peters               6-9, 225
Daniel Relvao           6-9, 240
David Skara             6-8, 215
E.V. Nickerson          6-8, 180
Jubril Adekoya          6-7, 230
Shane Hammink       6-7, 210
C. Livingston-Simon  6-7, 220

<jump cut to John Becher, shaking head in disbelief>

I noticed some things about that video of the full game with Daniel Relvao. Mountain Mission was playing this game in Georgetown, KY (Scott County HS) which is just north of Lexington, KY. It's a 200 mile drive from the mountains of Virginia to Georgetown, KY and takes well over 3 hours on those mountain highways. That is quite a drive and a major commitment to basketball by the school. The HS that Mountain Mission was playing in the Toyota Classic was Hargrave Military. The fact that Scott County was not playing in this game is why there are not many fans at the game. Actually Hargrave Military is in Virginia also.

That same Scott County HS of Georgetown, KY played Zionsville and Derrik Smits on Jan. 10th and the Eagles beat the Cardinals of SCHS in New Castle, IN 56-48. 

http://www.maxpreps.com/high-schools/scott-county-cardinals-%28georgetown,ky%29/basketball/schedule.htm (http://www.maxpreps.com/high-schools/scott-county-cardinals-%28georgetown,ky%29/basketball/schedule.htm)

http://indianahsbasketball.homestead.com/files/boyslogs381.htm (http://indianahsbasketball.homestead.com/files/boyslogs381.htm)

I believe that Hargrave is where Chadwick went, as well.

Quote from: wh on January 19, 2015, 07:52:26 PM
Next year's group of "monster-sized" forwards and centers:

Derrik Smits             7-0, 230 lbs
Alec Peters               6-9, 225
Daniel Relvao           6-9, 240
David Skara             6-8, 215
E.V. Nickerson          6-8, 180
Jubril Adekoya          6-7, 230
Shane Hammink       6-7, 210
C. Livingston-Simon  6-7, 220

It's noteworthy that 7 of these 8 will be returning for the 2016-17 season, along with Lexus, Tevonn, Nick and Max. As hard as it is to imagine, we should definitely perform at at a higher level next year and even higher the year following.  We have the potential to be a national mid-major power.

Does anyone have an idea on how good Derrik Smits is? Are there any highlights of him? I've seen short videos but that's it. Are we gonna be missing Vashil a lot next year?

short answer:  he will be better offensively than vashil but we will miss vashil on the other end a good deal, at least for a while.

There is a Smits-only thread that could be helpful as far as having some video.
http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1944.0 (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=1944.0)

Unfortunately there does not seem to be much video from this season of Derrik. There is a fair amount from last year on Hudl.  This year Zionsville is 17-4 and Derrik is a BIG reason for the improvement of Zionsville over the last 3 years.

Having talked to some coaches that have seen Derrik in AAU, they have been impressed with his offensive skills and decent athleticism for a 7'0" kid that just turned 18 on September 6th.  Some would say more of a European style player with good hands, nice shooting touch with range, and good passer with nice court vision.  It is said that he is working on being more aggressive and bringing more energy.  From what I have seen he has in the past lacked aggressiveness and needs to rebound better.  Tom Davis said that this is why he did not go to a major program.  I personally think he is a steal for Valpo and that Bryce is having success recruiting major talent to VU.  This will just help get more recruits of this caliber.

Here are some Hudl highlights from last year.
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2351241/highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2351241/highlights)

ButlerHoops recruiting thread has a lot more information on Derrik and followed him for more than 2 years.  Much more info than we have had on our site. Very interesting stuff.
http://butlerhoops.com/forum/archive/index.php/t-146.html (http://butlerhoops.com/forum/archive/index.php/t-146.html)

Was looking on Verbal Commits and ran across this player that will be heading to Drake in the fall:

http://verbalcommits.com/players/dominik-olejniczak (http://verbalcommits.com/players/dominik-olejniczak)

I wonder if our former Dean of Engineering could have helped recruit this young man.

Does he know that he has a namesake:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominic_Olejniczak (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominic_Olejniczak)

Apparently Jubril has an older brother at Chicago State?

http://verbalcommits.com/players/jawad-adekoya-il (http://verbalcommits.com/players/jawad-adekoya-il)

Brief story on Derrik.

http://www.currentzionsville.com/2015/02/24/father-son/ (http://www.currentzionsville.com/2015/02/24/father-son/)