Some thoughts from the PBC Roundball ...

[DT_PITT]

** Truly enjoyed the PBC Roundball at Montour this evening.

** The event was not quite "well-attended," but it may have been well enough attended to keep this event going into the future -- hope so. Maybe about 300 or so folks came through the doors at one time or another.

** The event itself was done well enough. Nice intros, uniforms, etc. Slam Dunk Contest was fun with former Panther Darren Morningstar as one of the judges.

** The undercard game with the WPIAL All Stars proved, unfortunately, that WPIAL Basketball is not really that great. But it was a close entertaining game that came down to the final shot.

** But the reason many such as myself came to the event was to get a look at our new Panthers, Justin Champagnie and Karim Coulibay.

** I'd love to tell you I came away quite impressed with both, but that wasn't really the case. They are decent enough players, and both should have the chance to contribute next year. But neither appear to be difference makers at this point.

** Justin had 14 points and was named the MVP for the PA team (who lost by 30). But he wasn't quite a standout either.

** My impression of Justin is that he has the game of a "dirty" power forward, but not quite yet the skills of one. He could probably be served well by getting stronger up top, and he's got the broad shoulders to do so. He's pretty good sized -- maybe a legit 6'7" -- 6'10" with the afro.

** What Justin isn't is a scorer, or at least not yet. He hit a three, and has decent form on his jumper, but he's doesn't look like "a shooter." He'll look to drive to the hole, but doesn't yet appear to be a top end finisher, although he had a tough strong finish on the break through contact.

** All in all, Justin was about what I expected. But I like him and we'll see how he develops.

** As for Karim, I was expecting a little more. Or perhaps I should say I was hoping for a little more.

** Karim's first shot was a three, and he hit it. He shot 4 more threes the rest of the way, but didn't hit those.

** He ended up with 13 points, but considering he was the tallest player in the game, his impact was disappointing.

** I know this was an All Star game, and maybe folks aren't giving it their best, and what I didn't see was Karim hunting any rebounds. He rarely got off his feet, didn't really box out, and many times let guards slip by him for offensive rebounds. He also doesn't appear to be very quick off of his feet. And if he's got a motor, he didn't turn it on tonight.

** I think there's a chance that Karim can contribute for the Panthers next year, but he's got some work to do. But if you've penciled in Karim to displace Terrell Brown as the Panther's primary player in the post next season, I suggest you get out your eraser.

** Oscar Tshiebwe was not in attendance as expected. I understand he was injured.

** Maceo Austin plays with plenty of energy, and he's exactly the kind of guy who will have a nice career at Duquesne.

** JaMier Flecher, who played at First Love and will go to Wagner, is a big boy and a big banger. He might have a nice career there.

** Quinn Slazinski who is going to Louisville, is going to be a player who we are going to hate for many years to come. He's cocky, and makes all kinds of hand gestures each time he makes a play and he made plenty of plays today. I thought he was the game's best player by far.

** Nonetheless, Ngonadi Olisa, who is going to Robert Morris, was named the USA All Starts MVP. Even if he might not have been as good as Slazinski in my opinion, he was fairly impressive, and was clearly the game's best "big." The Colonials may have really snagged themselves a good one.

** That's about all for tonight. But this event surely made me long for a return of the Summer League!

 

[Jeffburgh]

** Truly enjoyed the PBC Roundball at Montour this evening.

** The event was not quite "well-attended," but it may have been well enough attended to keep this event going into the future -- hope so. Maybe about 300 or so folks came through the doors at one time or another.

** The event itself was done well enough. Nice intros, uniforms, etc. Slam Dunk Contest was fun with former Panther Darren Morningstar as one of the judges.

** The undercard game with the WPIAL All Stars proved, unfortunately, that WPIAL Basketball is not really that great. But it was a close entertaining game that came down to the final shot.

** But the reason many such as myself came to the event was to get a look at our new Panthers, Justin Champagnie and Karim Coulibay.

** I'd love to tell you I came away impressed with both, but that wasn't really the case. They are decent players, and both should have the chance to contribute next year. But neither appear to be difference makers.

** Justin had 14 points and was named the MVP for the PA team (who lost by 30). But he wasn't quite a standout either.

** My impression of Justin is that he has the game of a "dirty" power forward, but not quite yet the skills of one. He could probably be served well by getting stronger up top, and he's got the broad shoulders to do so. He's pretty good sized -- maybe a legit 6'7" -- 6'10" with the afro.

** What Justin isn't is a scorer. Or at least not yet. He hit a three, and has decent form on his jumper, but he's not a shooter. He'll look to drive to the hole, but doesn't yet appear to be a top end finisher, although he had a tough strong finish on the break through contact.

** All in all, Justin was about what I expected.

** As for Karim, I was expecting a little more. Or perhaps I should say I was hoping for a little more.

** Karim's first shot was a three, and he hit it. He shot 4 more threes the rest of the way, but didn't hit those.

** He ended up with 13 points, but considering he was the tallest player in the game, his impact was disappointing.

** I know this was an All Star game, and maybe folks aren't giving it their best, and what I didn't see was Karim hunting any rebounds. He rarely got off his feet, didn't really box out, and many times let guards slip by him for offensive rebounds. He also doesn't appear to be very quick off of his feet. And if he's got a motor, he didn't turn it on tonight.

** I think there's a chance that Karim can contribute for the Panthers next year, but he's got some work to do. But if you've penciled in Karim to displace Terrell Brown as the Panther's primary player in the post next season, I suggest you get out your eraser.

** Oscar Tshiebwe was not in attendance as expected. I understand he was injured.

** Maceo Austin plays with plenty of energy, and he's exactly the kind of guy who will have a nice career at Duquesne.

** JaMier Flecher, who played at First Love and will go to Wagner, is a big boy and a big banger. He might have a nice career there.

** Quinn Slazinski who is going to Louisville, is going to be a player who we are going to hate for many years to come. He's cocky, and makes all kinds of hand gestures each time he makes a play and he made plenty of plays today. I thought he was the game's best player by far.

** Nonetheless, Ngonadi Olisa, who is going to Robert Morris, was named the USA All Starts MVP. Even if he might not have been as good as Slazinski in my opinion, he was fairly impressive, and was clearly the game's best "big." The Colonials may have really snagged themselves a good one.

** That's about all for tonight. But this event surely made me long for a return of the Summer League!

Thanks, DT. Your assessment seems to fit, though payside a member some posted soneone reporting that Justin had a strong circuit event recently.

Either way, probably best to have modest expectations for all three commits early on.

 

[DC_Area_Panther]

Thanks, DT. Your assessment seems to fit, though payside a member some posted soneone reporting that Justin had a strong circuit event recently.

Either way, probably best to have modest expectations for all three commits early on.

Seems like they are a couple of developmental players who likely will see some minutes coming off the bench as true freshmen but whose days to contribute significantly will be a year or two into the future.

It is good to hear that Justin Champagnie is taller than the 6-5 he was listed at on a couple of recruiting websites as we need taller wings.

Did you get a sense whether Karim Coulibaly is a legit 6-9? Or, do you think he is actually more like the 6-8 height he is listed at on some recruiting sites? I know this kind of thing is hard to tell by eyeball but perhaps you have an educated guess.

Hopefully Drumgoole is a more ready for prime time freshman and hopefully and that a few ready to contribute immediately transfers in (including grad transfers and JUCOs) will be added before next season.

IMHO, as I have posted in other threads before--we really need enough of a talent jump from last season to move the needle upward from last season's 14 win total in order to demonstrate continued progress and help with perception for the 2020 and 3021 recruiting efforts. It doesn't look like we have yet achieved that goal.

 

[Fsgolfdr]

I was hoping to hear glowing reviews of the future Panthers , DTs reviews of their play and potential enforces two thoughts I have about Pitt bb .The first is that rebuilding Pitt bb will be a multi year endeavor and until Pitt has a solid base of upperclassmen Pitt will struggle to win in the ACC . The second is that under current circumstances recruiting to Pitt is much more difficult than most want to admit . Hopefully once JC establishes relationships with players and coaches recruiting better players will become easier .

 

[Sean Miller Fan]

** Truly enjoyed the PBC Roundball at Montour this evening.

** The event was not quite "well-attended," but it may have been well enough attended to keep this event going into the future -- hope so. Maybe about 300 or so folks came through the doors at one time or another.

** The event itself was done well enough. Nice intros, uniforms, etc. Slam Dunk Contest was fun with former Panther Darren Morningstar as one of the judges.

** The undercard game with the WPIAL All Stars proved, unfortunately, that WPIAL Basketball is not really that great. But it was a close entertaining game that came down to the final shot.

** But the reason many such as myself came to the event was to get a look at our new Panthers, Justin Champagnie and Karim Coulibay.

** I'd love to tell you I came away impressed with both, but that wasn't really the case. They are decent players, and both should have the chance to contribute next year. But neither appear to be difference makers.

** Justin had 14 points and was named the MVP for the PA team (who lost by 30). But he wasn't quite a standout either.

** My impression of Justin is that he has the game of a "dirty" power forward, but not quite yet the skills of one. He could probably be served well by getting stronger up top, and he's got the broad shoulders to do so. He's pretty good sized -- maybe a legit 6'7" -- 6'10" with the afro.

** What Justin isn't is a scorer. Or at least not yet. He hit a three, and has decent form on his jumper, but he's not a shooter. He'll look to drive to the hole, but doesn't yet appear to be a top end finisher, although he had a tough strong finish on the break through contact.

** All in all, Justin was about what I expected.

** As for Karim, I was expecting a little more. Or perhaps I should say I was hoping for a little more.

** Karim's first shot was a three, and he hit it. He shot 4 more threes the rest of the way, but didn't hit those.

** He ended up with 13 points, but considering he was the tallest player in the game, his impact was disappointing.

** I know this was an All Star game, and maybe folks aren't giving it their best, and what I didn't see was Karim hunting any rebounds. He rarely got off his feet, didn't really box out, and many times let guards slip by him for offensive rebounds. He also doesn't appear to be very quick off of his feet. And if he's got a motor, he didn't turn it on tonight.

** I think there's a chance that Karim can contribute for the Panthers next year, but he's got some work to do. But if you've penciled in Karim to displace Terrell Brown as the Panther's primary player in the post next season, I suggest you get out your eraser.

** Oscar Tshiebwe was not in attendance as expected. I understand he was injured.

** Maceo Austin plays with plenty of energy, and he's exactly the kind of guy who will have a nice career at Duquesne.

** JaMier Flecher, who played at First Love and will go to Wagner, is a big boy and a big banger. He might have a nice career there.

** Quinn Slazinski who is going to Louisville, is going to be a player who we are going to hate for many years to come. He's cocky, and makes all kinds of hand gestures each time he makes a play and he made plenty of plays today. I thought he was the game's best player by far.

** Nonetheless, Ngonadi Olisa, who is going to Robert Morris, was named the USA All Starts MVP. Even if he might not have been as good as Slazinski in my opinion, he was fairly impressive, and was clearly the game's best "big." The Colonials may have really snagged themselves a good one.

** That's about all for tonight. But this event surely made me long for a return of the Summer League!

How does Toole find these guys? Is he better than Coulibaly?

 

[Jeffburgh]

Seems like they are a couple of developmental players who likely will see some minutes coming off the bench as true freshmen but whose days to contribute significantly will be a year or two into the future.

It is good to hear that Justin Champagnie is taller than the 6-5 he was listed at on a couple of recruiting websites as we need taller wings.

Did you get a sense whether Karim Coulibaly is a legit 6-9? Or, do you think he is actually more like the 6-8 height he is listed at on some recruiting sites? I know this kind of thing is hard to tell by eyeball but perhaps you have an educated guess.

Hopefully Drumgoole is a more ready for prime time freshman and hopefully and that a few ready to contribute immediately transfers in (including grad transfers and JUCOs) will be added before next season.

IMHO, as I have posted in other threads before--we really need enough of a talent jump from last season to move the needle upward from last season's 14 win total in order to demonstrate continued progress and help with perception for the 2020 and 3021 recruiting efforts. It doesn't look like we have yet achieved that goal.

Again, payside, there is someone who had the opportunity to get next to Justin who swears up and down he is actually 6-8 now, and apparently he is listed taller than 6-5 in recent events, too. Who knows, but there is enough info out to hold out hope he is taller than 6-5, cause he is NOT a perimeter guy.

I would side with you that Coulibaly is probably 6-8ish. I mean, every player is sized up an inch or more, so it is relative.

IMO - I do think he might HELP next year. As DT noted, he is not supplementing Brown, but he could give them decent minutes in limited time. Some of the stat crunchers have relayed that his rebounding numbers in the circuits were very high. VERY skeptical that he is going to be play 4 as some think - what DT relayed is what he looks like his recent videos, hard to see him keeping up with guys outside the paint defensively.

I like Drumgoole, and he is really fine player, but as with Coulibaly is not a plus athlete. He looks like a Lamar Patterson type, in a lot of ways, so he could be a guy who really helps them win games as a upper classman, but as someone who is limited athletically, again, I am expecting him to be guy who helps in limited moments, unless HCJC hand if forced to play him more.

I agree - as a BIG HCJC supporter, this class is not going to big a big help next year AT THIS POINT. Really hoping HCJC has more rabbits to pull out of his hat.

Hard to see him having a repeat of last year where he looked down the bench in ACC play and had absolutely on answers.

We will see ...

 

[Chescat]

* I'd love to tell you I came away impressed with both, but that wasn't really the case. They are decent players, and both should have the chance to contribute next year. But neither appear to be difference makers.

Thanks for the update. I feel you always are fairly objective in your reviews and also
somewhat optimistic. This latest review is not quite so optimistic, and I'm not really
surprised. These two guys are not going to get us the uptick that this program
needs. As a number of us have been saying all along on here, we need a Big
who can beat out Brown and Kene. If Brown is our Big this coming year and
with the addition of these two and even Drumgoole, we can't IMO get beyond 5 or 6
wins in the ACC.....if that!
I guess there's still time in the recruiting process. Here's hoping that Capel has
something going on in recruiting about which none of us on here know.

 

[MajorMajors]

** Truly enjoyed the PBC Roundball at Montour this evening.

** The event was not quite "well-attended," but it may have been well enough attended to keep this event going into the future -- hope so. Maybe about 300 or so folks came through the doors at one time or another.

** The event itself was done well enough. Nice intros, uniforms, etc. Slam Dunk Contest was fun with former Panther Darren Morningstar as one of the judges.

** The undercard game with the WPIAL All Stars proved, unfortunately, that WPIAL Basketball is not really that great. But it was a close entertaining game that came down to the final shot.

** But the reason many such as myself came to the event was to get a look at our new Panthers, Justin Champagnie and Karim Coulibay.

** I'd love to tell you I came away impressed with both, but that wasn't really the case. They are decent players, and both should have the chance to contribute next year. But neither appear to be difference makers.

** Justin had 14 points and was named the MVP for the PA team (who lost by 30). But he wasn't quite a standout either.

** My impression of Justin is that he has the game of a "dirty" power forward, but not quite yet the skills of one. He could probably be served well by getting stronger up top, and he's got the broad shoulders to do so. He's pretty good sized -- maybe a legit 6'7" -- 6'10" with the afro.

** What Justin isn't is a scorer. Or at least not yet. He hit a three, and has decent form on his jumper, but he's not a shooter. He'll look to drive to the hole, but doesn't yet appear to be a top end finisher, although he had a tough strong finish on the break through contact.

** All in all, Justin was about what I expected.

** As for Karim, I was expecting a little more. Or perhaps I should say I was hoping for a little more.

** Karim's first shot was a three, and he hit it. He shot 4 more threes the rest of the way, but didn't hit those.

** He ended up with 13 points, but considering he was the tallest player in the game, his impact was disappointing.

** I know this was an All Star game, and maybe folks aren't giving it their best, and what I didn't see was Karim hunting any rebounds. He rarely got off his feet, didn't really box out, and many times let guards slip by him for offensive rebounds. He also doesn't appear to be very quick off of his feet. And if he's got a motor, he didn't turn it on tonight.

** I think there's a chance that Karim can contribute for the Panthers next year, but he's got some work to do. But if you've penciled in Karim to displace Terrell Brown as the Panther's primary player in the post next season, I suggest you get out your eraser.

** Oscar Tshiebwe was not in attendance as expected. I understand he was injured.

** Maceo Austin plays with plenty of energy, and he's exactly the kind of guy who will have a nice career at Duquesne.

** JaMier Flecher, who played at First Love and will go to Wagner, is a big boy and a big banger. He might have a nice career there.

** Quinn Slazinski who is going to Louisville, is going to be a player who we are going to hate for many years to come. He's cocky, and makes all kinds of hand gestures each time he makes a play and he made plenty of plays today. I thought he was the game's best player by far.

** Nonetheless, Ngonadi Olisa, who is going to Robert Morris, was named the USA All Starts MVP. Even if he might not have been as good as Slazinski in my opinion, he was fairly impressive, and was clearly the game's best "big." The Colonials may have really snagged themselves a good one.

** That's about all for tonight. But this event surely made me long for a return of the Summer League!

DT— this is one of those times I wished you weren’t such an objective observer!

Go Pitt.

 

[R-M-U-h-o-o-p-s-f-a-n]

** Truly enjoyed the PBC Roundball at Montour this evening.

** The event was not quite "well-attended," but it may have been well enough attended to keep this event going into the future -- hope so. Maybe about 300 or so folks came through the doors at one time or another.

** The event itself was done well enough. Nice intros, uniforms, etc. Slam Dunk Contest was fun with former Panther Darren Morningstar as one of the judges.

** The undercard game with the WPIAL All Stars proved, unfortunately, that WPIAL Basketball is not really that great. But it was a close entertaining game that came down to the final shot.

** But the reason many such as myself came to the event was to get a look at our new Panthers, Justin Champagnie and Karim Coulibay.

** I'd love to tell you I came away impressed with both, but that wasn't really the case. They are decent players, and both should have the chance to contribute next year. But neither appear to be difference makers.

** Justin had 14 points and was named the MVP for the PA team (who lost by 30). But he wasn't quite a standout either.

** My impression of Justin is that he has the game of a "dirty" power forward, but not quite yet the skills of one. He could probably be served well by getting stronger up top, and he's got the broad shoulders to do so. He's pretty good sized -- maybe a legit 6'7" -- 6'10" with the afro.

** What Justin isn't is a scorer. Or at least not yet. He hit a three, and has decent form on his jumper, but he's not a shooter. He'll look to drive to the hole, but doesn't yet appear to be a top end finisher, although he had a tough strong finish on the break through contact.

** All in all, Justin was about what I expected.

** As for Karim, I was expecting a little more. Or perhaps I should say I was hoping for a little more.

** Karim's first shot was a three, and he hit it. He shot 4 more threes the rest of the way, but didn't hit those.

** He ended up with 13 points, but considering he was the tallest player in the game, his impact was disappointing.

** I know this was an All Star game, and maybe folks aren't giving it their best, and what I didn't see was Karim hunting any rebounds. He rarely got off his feet, didn't really box out, and many times let guards slip by him for offensive rebounds. He also doesn't appear to be very quick off of his feet. And if he's got a motor, he didn't turn it on tonight.

** I think there's a chance that Karim can contribute for the Panthers next year, but he's got some work to do. But if you've penciled in Karim to displace Terrell Brown as the Panther's primary player in the post next season, I suggest you get out your eraser.

** Oscar Tshiebwe was not in attendance as expected. I understand he was injured.

** Maceo Austin plays with plenty of energy, and he's exactly the kind of guy who will have a nice career at Duquesne.

** JaMier Flecher, who played at First Love and will go to Wagner, is a big boy and a big banger. He might have a nice career there.

** Quinn Slazinski who is going to Louisville, is going to be a player who we are going to hate for many years to come. He's cocky, and makes all kinds of hand gestures each time he makes a play and he made plenty of plays today. I thought he was the game's best player by far.

** Nonetheless, Ngonadi Olisa, who is going to Robert Morris, was named the USA All Starts MVP. Even if he might not have been as good as Slazinski in my opinion, he was fairly impressive, and was clearly the game's best "big." The Colonials may have really snagged themselves a good one.

** That's about all for tonight. But this event surely made me long for a return of the Summer League!

Great to hear about Olisa from RMU. A good big to replace talented JUCO (came from same team as JWF) player in Petteway is needed.

 

[sonofabit]

Thanks for the update. I feel you always are fairly objective in your reviews and also
somewhat optimistic. This latest review is not quite so optimistic, and I'm not really
surprised. These two guys are not going to get us the uptick that this program
needs. As a number of us have been saying all along on here, we need a Big
who can beat out Brown and Kene. If Brown is our Big this coming year and
with the addition of these two and even Drumgoole, we can't IMO get beyond 5 or 6
wins in the ACC.....if that!
I guess there's still time in the recruiting process. Here's hoping that Capel has
something going on in recruiting about which none of us on here know.

Cannot forget that these two young men have yet to be coached by an ACC staff. Skills, nutrition, the whole thing. They'll soon realize a gear they didn't know they possessed.

 

[DT_PITT]

Cannot forget that these two young men have yet to be coached by an ACC staff. Skills, nutrition, the whole thing. They'll soon realize a gear they didn't know they possessed.

No doubt. They will get better...even during this coming season. But it doesn’t appear they are the kind of players who can make an immediate significant impact.

But most freshmen don’t.

 

[Chescat]

Cannot forget that these two young men have yet to be coached by an ACC staff. Skills, nutrition, the whole thing. They'll soon realize a gear they didn't know they possessed.

I certainly agree with your point that these two will improve from their
present playing ability. However, my point remains about they not being
able to substantially lift the program. They're decent additions and I'm
glad we have them, but we need BIGS. We get a BIG or two that's better
than Brown and we can then talk about making a significant jump. IMO if
Brown remains the starter and we bring in similar recruits to these two
(talent and size), the jump we're looking for will not occur this coming season.

 

[recruitsreadtheseboards]

Thanks for your candor DT. I was maybe more hopeful for Coulabily

 

[DC_Area_Panther]

I certainly agree with your point that these two will improve from their
present playing ability. However, my point remains about they not being
able to substantially lift the program. They're decent additions and I'm
glad we have them, but we need BIGS. We get a BIG or two that's better
than Brown and we can then talk about making a significant jump. IMO if
Brown remains the starter and we bring in similar recruits to these two
(talent and size), the jump we're looking for will not occur this coming season.

How much jump do you think we are looking for?

Personally speaking, although I would love a jump to 19-21 wins and an NIT bid, I am only looking for a 2-3 game overall improvement over last year's 14 total wins. If we don't make that much of an improvement it will look like we are treading water or even that we are regressing. Must we have that better than Brown big or two to get 2-3 more total wins (OOC +ACC)? I am not convinced that will be needed for only 2-3 more total wins.

 

[FireballZ]

I’m always concerned when DT can’t find the positive spin in a situation...

 

[Chescat]

How much jump do you think we are looking for?

Personally speaking, I am only looking for a 2-3 game overall improvement over last year's 14 total wins. If we don't do that it will look like we are regressing. Must we have that better than Brown big or two to make that happen?

Ok, to answer your question: We get a legit BIG and I see us making a jump
to 6-7 wins in ACC play. If we keep Brown as a starter and add recruits like
the three we have so far, I see us with 4 or maybe wins in league.
The Big would get us to 500 or better overall IMO.

 

[Drew1208]

Ok, to answer your question: We get a legit BIG and I see us making a jump
to 6-7 wins in ACC play. If we keep Brown as a starter and add recruits like
the three we have so far, I see us with 4 or maybe wins in league.
The Big would get us to 500 or better overall IMO.

I definitely think the big is important, by I actually think Mcgowens, improvement is just as important.
If he finds confidence and takes a significant leap of consistency, then we will win a few more games as a result.

 

[Drew1208]

I definitely think the big is important, by I actually think Mcgowens, improvement is just as important.
If he finds confidence and takes a significant leap of consistency, then we will win a few more games as a result.

We pretty much only won games where he played well.

 

[Sean Miller Fan]

Cannot forget that these two young men have yet to be coached by an ACC staff. Skills, nutrition, the whole thing. They'll soon realize a gear they didn't know they possessed.

That goes for every single ACC incoming recruit. Pitt gains no advantage in this area.

 

[Sean Miller Fan]

I’m always concerned when DT can’t find the positive spin in a situation...

This is what frightens me. Just from DT's post, I have Coulibaly closer to Samson George level than Terrell Brown. And I have given up any hope of Champagnie being an important player next year. I now think he'll just be a rotation guy. I was hoping for you know, maybe he's underrated and becomes a 11-12 PPG guy but from DT's post, I'm thinking 4 PPG

 

[DT_PITT]

I’m always concerned when DT can’t find the positive spin in a situation...

I don't think I was trying to offer any positive or negative spin. Both of these guys might be pretty good players in time.

But like most freshman, they probably aren't going to be significant contributors.

I think we saw what happened with Xavier and Trey and Au'Diese (who were all ahead of the curve compared to most freshmen) and we all hope that all of our freshmen will be on the same kind of curve.

Other than the very top recruits, it's more rare that freshman are big time contributors.

For what it's worth, I have heard the Drumgoole is more ready to contribute as a freshman.

 

[DT_PITT]

I definitely think the big is important, by I actually think Mcgowens, improvement is just as important.
If he finds confidence and takes a significant leap of consistency, then we will win a few more games as a result.

If McGowens can be consistent, we can be an improved team. Brown needs to be more consistent too. He played decently at times last year, but not often enough.

 

[UptownPrivileges]

I hope Jeff has more than what we have, need a big and a 3 pt threat or it’s Deja Yu

 

[FireballZ]

I don't think I was trying to offer any positive or negative spin. Both of these guys might be pretty good players in time.

But like most freshman, they probably aren't going to be significant contributors.

I think we saw what happened with Xavier and Trey and Au'Diese (who were all ahead of the curve compared to most freshmen) and we all hope that all of our freshmen will be on the same kind of curve.

Other than the very top recruits, it's more rare that freshman are big time contributors.

For what it's worth, I have heard the Drumgoole is more ready to contribute as a freshman.

Totally agree. I have the patience, but sounds like another rough 2 years are ahead unless the 2020 recruiting shatters the mold.

 

[DT_PITT]

Totally agree. I have the patience, but sounds like another rough 2 years are ahead unless the 2020 recruiting shatters the mold.

Patience is tough, but the road back in long.

 

[Sean Miller Fan]

I don't think I was trying to offer any positive or negative spin. Both of these guys might be pretty good players in time.

But like most freshman, they probably aren't going to be significant contributors.

I think we saw what happened with Xavier and Trey and Au'Diese (who were all ahead of the curve compared to most freshmen) and we all hope that all of our freshmen will be on the same kind of curve.

Other than the very top recruits, it's more rare that freshman are big time contributors.

For what it's worth, I have heard the Drumgoole is more ready to contribute as a freshman.

But when you were 3-15 and building from scratch, that pretty much says that your team is not very good right now so if 2/3 of our incoming class aren't good enough to be difference makers on a bad team.......I mean isn't that like DePaul recruiting (well before Leitao knocked it out of the park this year). The fact that Champagnie and Coulibaly may not provide anything positive besides eating minutes is kinda depressing. We have arguably the worst team in the ACC and we can't get better if we can't bring in better players.

 

[DT_PITT]

But when you were 3-15 and building from scratch, that pretty much says that your team is not very good right now so if 2/3 of our incoming class aren't good enough to be difference makers on a bad team.......I mean isn't that like DePaul recruiting (well before Leitao knocked it out of the park this year). The fact that Champagnie and Coulibaly may not provide anything positive besides eating minutes is kinda depressing. We have arguably the worst team in the ACC and we can't get better if we can't bring in better players.

I agree that we need to bring in better players. But most freshman, even those going onto bad teams, don't play before more experienced players.

My guess on what I've been told is the Drumgoole will get into the rotation for 15-20 minutes.

From my first look, Champagnie could play about 10 minutes if he plays defense. How much Coulibay plays will likely depend upon how quickly Kene is ready to play.

 

[DT_PITT]

But when you were 3-15 and building from scratch, that pretty much says that your team is not very good right now so if 2/3 of our incoming class aren't good enough to be difference makers on a bad team.......I mean isn't that like DePaul recruiting (well before Leitao knocked it out of the park this year). The fact that Champagnie and Coulibaly may not provide anything positive besides eating minutes is kinda depressing. We have arguably the worst team in the ACC and we can't get better if we can't bring in better players.

One other thing. A role that Champangie could fill for next year is the role the Malik Ellison played this past year. Knowing the struggles Malik often had, I could see Justin matching his production.

 

[Gunga_Galunga]

And I have given up any hope of Champagnie being an important player next year. I now think he'll just be a rotation guy. I was hoping for you know, maybe he's underrated and becomes a 11-12 PPG guy but from DT's post, I'm thinking 4 PPG

So an upgrade over Peace, Kene, Davis, George, Stevenson, and likely similar to Ellison. Basically as good or better than half of last years scholarship roster, even with expectations you reduced without even watching him play.

 

[below0w]

This is what frightens me. Just from DT's post, I have Coulibaly closer to Samson George level than Terrell Brown. And I have given up any hope of Champagnie being an important player next year. I now think he'll just be a rotation guy. I was hoping for you know, maybe he's underrated and becomes a 11-12 PPG guy but from DT's post, I'm thinking 4 PPG

This is insane. I respect DT and trust his observations, but he's giving his impressions of a not at all serious tournament featuring mixed teams. Based on that, you've decided that Coulibaly is similar to Samson George and that Champagnie won't be an important player next year? You've come to these conclusions based on a tiny sample of games you didn't even see?

Real talk, what is wrong with you?

 

[recruitsreadtheseboards]

We still really need a banger, likely from the grad transfer level to come in for 10-15 minutes, hack some fouls, grab some bounds and putback or two. Be physical.

 

[Sean Miller Fan]

This is insane. I respect DT and trust his observations, but he's giving his impressions of a not at all serious tournament featuring mixed teams. Based on that, you've decided that Coulibaly is similar to Samson George and that Champagnie won't be an important player next year? You've come to these conclusions based on a tiny sample of games you didn't even see?

Real talk, what is wrong with you?

If you know basketball, like DT does, like I do, then you can tell something from even these types of games. Of course, you can't make a 100% accurate assessment but you can tell something. Champagnie, fine, we aren't in dire need of a 3 right now. I have seen Drumgoole play and I think he's pretty good. No, Drumgoole won't be a difference maker right away, but I have him slotted in at the 3 playing the JWF role. But we are in desperate need of a Big. The fact that Coulibaly apparently wasn't boarding like crazy in a game where there are a ton of rebound opportunities is a little worrisome.

 

[NCanton Panther]

I agree that we need to bring in better players. But most freshman, even those going onto bad teams, don't play before more experienced players.

My guess on what I've been told is the Drumgoole will get into the rotation for 15-20 minutes.

From my first look, Champagnie could play about 10 minutes if he plays defense. How much Coulibay plays will likely depend upon how quickly Kene is ready to play.

Regardless of how good or ready these 3 freshman are or aren’t, don’t a couple of them have to play the minutes you suggest just because, as of now, there isn’t anyone else to play those minutes? If I’m counting correctly, we currently only gave 6 returning scholarship players and that includes Kene and Samson. I guess Aiken could make it 7.

Doesn’t account for Sidy if he comes back but I don’t expect that, or any additional new recruits or grad transfers, but as of now, a couple of these guys will have to play those minutes regardless if they’re ready or not.

 

[DC_Area_Panther]

But when you were 3-15 and building from scratch, that pretty much says that your team is not very good right now so if 2/3 of our incoming class aren't good enough to be difference makers on a bad team.......I mean isn't that like DePaul recruiting (well before Leitao knocked it out of the park this year). The fact that Champagnie and Coulibaly may not provide anything positive besides eating minutes is kinda depressing. We have arguably the worst team in the ACC and we can't get better if we can't bring in better players.

I don't think we are "arguably the worst team in the ACC," but, we are certainly closer to the bottom than to the middle. Last season, we did finish ahead of Notre Dame regular season by virtue of our head to head win and we did beat B.C. in the ACCT first round. Also, we managed to do the aforementioned despite a very unfavorable ACC schedule in terms of which teams we got on the road vs at home.

Also, even setting ACC W-L record aside, we showed significant improvement in competitiveness with far fewer blow-out losses than the prior Stallings' year, stayed in games in the 2nd half and had an ACC games scoring margin deficit decrease from the previous season's roughly 19 points per game to around 9 points per game.

With a more favorable ACC home schedule this coming season I don't believe we will finish dead last even if we don't add the grad transfer help we should expect in the coming months.

In addition, still mindful of DT's all-star game assessment, I hold out hope for Justin Champagnie to be a better option if Capel uses him in the same role (take it to the hoop forward) that Toney was used in last season--if only because Justin is a bit taller.

As regards Coulibaly, he has to be better than George if for no other reason than that he is a couple of inches taller and has at least some level of jump shooting ability. If nothing else he will provide 5 more fouls to give on the inside making it less likely we will have both Brown and/or Chukwuka in foul trouble late in games.

 

[Sean Miller Fan]

I don't think we are "arguably the worst team in the ACC," but, we are certainly closer to the bottom than to the middle. Last season, we did finish ahead of Notre Dame regular season by virtue of our head to head win and we did beat B.C. in the ACCT first round. Also, we managed to do the aforementioned despite a very unfavorable ACC schedule in terms of which teams we got on the road vs at home.

Also, even setting ACC W-L record aside, we showed significant improvement in competitiveness with far fewer blow-out losses than the prior Stallings' year, stayed in games in the 2nd half and had an ACC games scoring margin deficit decrease from the previous season's roughly 19 points per game to around 9 points per game.

With a more favorable ACC home schedule this coming season I don't believe we will finish dead last even if we don't add the grad transfer help we should expect in the coming months.

In addition, still mindful of DT's all-star game assessment, I hold out hope for Justin Champagnie to be a better option if Capel uses him in the same role (take it to the hoop forward) that Toney was used in last season--if only because Justin is a bit taller.

As regards Coulibaly, he has to be better than George if for no other reason than that he is a couple of inches taller and has at least some level of jump shooting ability. If nothing else he will provide 5 more fouls to give on the inside making it less likely we will have Brown and/or Chukwuka in foul trouble late in games.

I said "arguably." There is a good chance Pitt is picked dead last preseason (if Ky Bowman comes back). I realize we finished tied with ND last year but they had injury issues and don't they add a good transfer or something? Brey isn't going to have 2 bad seasons in a row.

 

[ebonylover40]

Below beat me to the punch. Why are you all making assumptions from a lame allstar game? This was like everyone saying Ellison was so great because he played played good in those summer leagues games. At least wait to see these guys play real basketball. Before you all go off the deep end.

 

[Chescat]

I don't think we are "arguably the worst team in the ACC," but, we are certainly closer to the bottom than to the middle.

Yes, "closer to the bottom than to the middle." I do believe we can finish ahead
of BC and WF with what we have and the three new recruits. ND and VT are
questionable for next season, but if we get a "viable Big" we could pass them
in the standings. That would get us closer to the middle.
It's been posted pover and over...we desperately need a Big. It moves Brown into
a substitute role, and maybe Kene to a forward spot (he's not a Big despite his
size). If that were to occur, we'd have a much, much better inside presence.
On top of that, our guards wouldn't have to force their way to the hoop, and
defenses would actually have to guard our inside guys. Our guards and wings
have decent floor games (even Kene does). Our wings, Toney for example,
wouldn't have to make rebounding their top priority.
What I'm saying isn't rocket science. Capel is more than aware of all of this.
I still believe he is going to get a viable Big here for this coming season. Then
we won't have to worry as much about these three recruits we already have.
They can then be brought along slowly and develop over time. THAT also
is what a Big will do for us.
Sorry for sounding like a broken record.

 

[JS School]

If you know basketball, like DT does, like I do, then you can tell something from even these types of games. Of course, you can't make a 100% accurate assessment but you can tell something. Champagnie, fine, we aren't in dire need of a 3 right now. I have seen Drumgoole play and I think he's pretty good. No, Drumgoole won't be a difference maker right away, but I have him slotted in at the 3 playing the JWF role. But we are in desperate need of a Big. The fact that Coulibaly apparently wasn't boarding like crazy in a game where there are a ton of rebound opportunities is a little worrisome.

You and DT?

 

[DT_PITT]

Regardless of how good or ready these 3 freshman are or aren’t, don’t a couple of them have to play the minutes you suggest just because, as of now, there isn’t anyone else to play those minutes? If I’m counting correctly, we currently only gave 6 returning scholarship players and that includes Kene and Samson. I guess Aiken could make it 7.

Doesn’t account for Sidy if he comes back but I don’t expect that, or any additional new recruits or grad transfers, but as of now, a couple of these guys will have to play those minutes regardless if they’re ready or not.

Yes ... good point. My thoughts might be more along the lines of expectations when they do play.

 

[DT_PITT]

Below beat me to the punch. Why are you all making assumptions from a lame allstar game? This was like everyone saying Ellison was so great because he played played good in those summer leagues games. At least wait to see these guys play real basketball. Before you all go off the deep end.

Ellison never played in any summer league games.