Illinois Hoops Recruiting Thread

DaytonIllini · Jan 11, 2013, 03:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hugh Jorgen

Not sure what newspaper you read, but the ones I've read seldom contain anything that I would ever consider "fact". Most nowadays are filled with information that is thrown out as quickly as it can be received in order to qualify as 'breaking news', and it is so poorly researched that incorrect information is quite common...not to mention the grammatical errors and poor spelling that is rampant.

But, I guess that is what we must come to expect from future generations who are not taught how to write with a pen and paper, and who only know slang, shorthand, LOL's OMG's AFAIK's, IMHO's, ROTFLMAO's, etc.

Fair enough. I doubt the newspaper was ever a source of fact. Just threw it out there without a lot of thought.

OrangeandBlue4eva · Jan 11, 2013, 03:09 PM

I have a couple questions and please no one blast me I am a loyal fan that watches every game, goes on the boards, etc. So next year the class coming in is class of 2013 that we just signed with 6 people right? The class of 2014 currently there is only one spot at the moment but many believe one could open up? I believe the recruits I hear most about are Lyle, Okafor, and Alexander. But the class of 2015 is where a lot of spots open up and we could land an elite class? Thanks for anyone willing to clear this up for me.

Crazy Gringo · Jan 11, 2013, 03:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hugh Jorgen

Not sure what newspaper you read, but the ones I've read seldom contain anything that I would ever consider "fact". Most nowadays are filled with information that is thrown out as quickly as it can be received in order to qualify as 'breaking news', and it is so poorly researched that incorrect information is quite common...not to mention the grammatical errors and poor spelling that is rampant.

Don't forget to add propaganda and political agendas to that list.

illiniobserver22 · Jan 11, 2013, 03:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OrangeandBlue4eva

I have a couple questions and please no one blast me I am a loyal fan that watches every game, goes on the boards, etc. So next year the class coming in is class of 2013 that we just signed with 6 people right? The class of 2014 currently there is only one spot at the moment but many believe one could open up? I believe the recruits I hear most about are Lyle, Okafor, and Alexander. But the class of 2015 is where a lot of spots open up and we could land an elite class? Thanks for anyone willing to clear this up for me.

We enroll 5 this fall (2013)- PG Jaylon Tate, SG Kendrick Nunn, SF Malcolm Hill, PF Austin Colbert and C Maverick Morgan. That fills all open scholarships.

In 2014, there's currently only one scholarship coming available, that of Joe Bertrand. We have a commitment from PF Michael Finke for that spot. However, there is speculation one or more could open via transfers by that time.

In 2015, we graduate 6 players (Abrams, Henry, Shaw, Djimde, Rice, Egwu) assuming all those guys want to stay 4 years. So yes, we have the spots to take a big class, and early indications are positive with some of our top prospects.

OrangeandBlue4eva · Jan 11, 2013, 03:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by illiniobserver22

We enroll 5 this fall (2013)- PG Jaylon Tate, SG Kendrick Nunn, SF Malcolm Hill, PF Austin Colbert and C Maverick Morgan. That fills all open scholarships.

In 2014, there's currently only one scholarship coming available, that of Joe Bertrand. We have a commitment from PF Michael Finke for that spot. However, there is speculation one or more could open via transfers by that time.

In 2015, we graduate 6 players (Abrams, Henry, Shaw, Djimde, Rice, Egwu) assuming all those guys want to stay 4 years. So yes, we have the spots to take a big class, and early indications are positive with some of our top prospects.

Thank you so Finke would just be a Junior this year then? Maybe that's what was confusing me when I thought about this earlier.

illiniobserver22 · Jan 11, 2013, 03:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OrangeandBlue4eva

Thank you so Finke would just be a Junior this year then? Maybe that's what was confusing me when I thought about this earlier.

Yes.

WinOrElse · Jan 11, 2013, 05:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hugh Jorgen

Not sure what newspaper you read, but the ones I've read seldom contain anything that I would ever consider "fact". Most nowadays are filled with information that is thrown out as quickly as it can be received in order to qualify as 'breaking news', and it is so poorly researched that incorrect information is quite common...not to mention the grammatical errors and poor spelling that is rampant.

But, I guess that is what we must come to expect from future generations who are not taught how to write with a pen and paper, and who only know slang, shorthand, LOL's OMG's AFAIK's, IMHO's, ROTFLMAO's, etc.

Along those same lines, it took me awhile to get used to all the initials many folks use instead of just typing someone's actual name. I actually made a list at one point for quick reference. I can figure it out pretty easily when talking about the team, but it sure came in handy when reading the recruiting threads since I don't follow that area as closely as some.

rtbritt · Jan 11, 2013, 06:31 PM

I was wondering if anyone has a scoop on Connor Gross, a junior, from Bement, IL.

As a sophomore last season, he lead his area in scoring at like 20 points a game, while making 94 3's on the season. He also had around 60 3's as a freshman playing varsity.

He is continuing his scoring and 3 point shooting as a Junior.

I was wondering if Groce is looking at Gross, as we surely could use a great 3 point shooter in the future.

Anyone aware of him?

HsvIllini · Jan 11, 2013, 06:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rtbritt

I was wondering if anyone has a scoop on Connor Gross, a junior, from Bement, IL.

As a sophomore last season, he lead his area in scoring at like 20 points a game, while making 94 3's on the season. He also had around 60 3's as a freshman playing varsity.

He is continuing his scoring and 3 point shooting as a Junior.

I was wondering if Groce is looking at Gross, as we surely could use a great 3 point shooter in the future.

Anyone aware of him?

I highly doubt Groce is looking at him. He's in the 2014 class, which is already full scholarship wise. The only 14's he's probably looking at are Alexander and Lyle I would guess...

nichi · Jan 11, 2013, 07:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OrangeandBlue4eva

Thank you so Finke would just be a Junior this year then? Maybe that's what was confusing me when I thought about this earlier.

You may also have been thinking 6 for the class of 2013 since transfer Rayvonte Rice will be eligible next season.

2013 Class: Rivals #13 MaxPreps #15 Scout #18 ESPN #24

Kendrick Nunn # 51 rscihoops Sep 2012 | # 54 247comp 1/10/2013
Malcolm Hill # 66 rscihoops Sep 2012 | # 73 247comp 1/10/2013
Austin Colbert # 98 rscihoops Sep 2012 | #126 247comp 1/10/2013
Maverick Morgan #140 247comp 1/10/2013
Jaylon Tate NR

Illini34 · Jan 11, 2013, 08:11 PM

Just got back from the game. Here's the stats on Larry Austin that I had written down. Lincoln over Lanphier 49-39

Larry Austin Jr.
8 Points
1-4 3 point FG
1-2 FG
3-6 FT
4 Rebounds
1 Block
1 Assist

TCTORNADO · Jan 11, 2013, 08:52 PM

Maverick Morgan Friday night

27 pts. on 10 of 19 shooting
7-8 FT's
14 rebounds
5 blocks

Shooting 62% from field for the year.
Springboro 61 Lebanon 49

combes · Jan 11, 2013, 08:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rtbritt

I was wondering if anyone has a scoop on Connor Gross, a junior, from Bement, IL.

As a sophomore last season, he lead his area in scoring at like 20 points a game, while making 94 3's on the season. He also had around 60 3's as a freshman playing varsity.

He is continuing his scoring and 3 point shooting as a Junior.

I was wondering if Groce is looking at Gross, as we surely could use a great 3 point shooter in the future.

Anyone aware of him?

Bement doesn't play anyone. Doubtful that he would be a UI level recruit.

rtbritt · Jan 11, 2013, 09:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by combes

Bement doesn't play anyone. Doubtful that he would be a UI level recruit.

I did that for my own little humor. I was kidding. My bad. I teach at Bement which is a school of 100. He really is an awesome 1a player. But he's 5'11" and slow.

IlliniReb · Jan 11, 2013, 09:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rtbritt

I was wondering if anyone has a scoop on Connor Gross, a junior, from Bement, IL.

As a sophomore last season, he lead his area in scoring at like 20 points a game, while making 94 3's on the season. He also had around 60 3's as a freshman playing varsity.

He is continuing his scoring and 3 point shooting as a Junior.

I was wondering if Groce is looking at Gross, as we surely could use a great 3 point shooter in the future.

Anyone aware of him?

For the name alone, preferred walkon! :laugh:

PeoriaIllini1 · Jan 12, 2013, 12:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by combes

Bement doesn't play anyone. Doubtful that he would be a UI level recruit.

I am not saying we are interested or not but our lack of interests will not be because of where he is from. Seriously! How many farm town hoops players have come from po dunk towns throughout the Midwest. Where exactly is Robinson or French Lick! We will take a talented player no matter where he is from.

OrangeandBlue89 · Jan 12, 2013, 01:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PeoriaIllini1

I am not saying we are interested or not but our lack of interests will not be because of where he is from. Seriously! How many farm town hoops players have come from po dunk towns throughout the Midwest. Where exactly is Robinson or French Lick! We will take a talented player no matter where he is from.

Ever get out of the city buddy? :laugh:

Dan · Jan 12, 2013, 06:49 AM

Quote:

Highlights: All Michael Finke, all the time. He scored 13 in a win over Eisenhower. #Centennial #Illini http://bit.ly/VSg9E1

http://twitter.com/AaronB_WCIA

Quote:

Malcolm Hill with 22 tonight

http://twitter.com/swjetsbbclub

Quote:

Sophomore center Diamond Stone is productive already, but his upside is tremendous. Definitely an elite prospect in the 2015 class.

http://twitter.com/JeffRabjohns

mdonsbach · Jan 12, 2013, 06:55 AM

Okay early morning question turning in my head. After a player has commited to us would it be common for our coaching staff to go to our commit's coach and ask them to play a certain way or to focus on certain aspects of their game. You know to try and prepare them for what they would expect from them in college?

Is that allowed or frowned upon at all?

i11ini · Jan 12, 2013, 07:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdonsbach

Okay early morning question turning in my head. After a player has commited to us would it be common for our coaching staff to go to our commit's coach and ask them to play a certain way or to focus on certain aspects of their game. You know to try and prepare them for what they would expect from them in college?

Is that allowed or frowned upon at all?

Great question! I've wondered about this as well before, and I would also like to know. One example I can think of is that Robert Smith is now playing Jaylon Tate at the PG spot more.

fan17 · Jan 12, 2013, 07:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdonsbach

Okay early morning question turning in my head. After a player has commited to us would it be common for our coaching staff to go to our commit's coach and ask them to play a certain way or to focus on certain aspects of their game. You know to try and prepare them for what they would expect from them in college?

Is that allowed or frowned upon at all?

I can't see this happening. I could see it the other way, where the HS coach may ask what he can do to better prepare the player. i think that what you ask could be very bad for publicity. For instance if JG had gone to B East coach and asked for MH to play a certain way and it was not in the best interest for the B East team. i doubt that would be well accepted amongst the other players or the community.

Warriors1994 · Jan 12, 2013, 07:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by i11ini

Great question! I've wondered about this as well before, and I would also like to know. One example I can think of is that Robert Smith is now playing Jaylon Tate at the PG spot more.

Im pretty sure JT was just the next PG in line and was playing plenty of point before he committed.

And I highly doubt you do that as a coach. The High School coach has to do what he needs to do to win games. As a coach the college coach knows this and most likely respects this.

i11ini · Jan 12, 2013, 08:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fan17

I can't see this happening. I could see it the other way, where the HS coach may ask what he can do to better prepare the player. i think that what you ask could be very bad for publicity. For instance if JG had gone to B East coach and asked for MH to play a certain way and it was not in the best interest for the B East team. i doubt that would be well accepted amongst the other players or the community.

I think I disagree with some of this, I'm sure some ideas from a college coach would help player realize what he has to showcase or learn for the next year. And that way, the high school coach and the player can set aside a regimen that also benefits the team.

Think about it, isn't this very similar to college players who get feedback from NBA scouts, etc prior to the year they declare? They use those tips and strategies and incorporate those into the team dynamic with the head coach to hopefully improve the player's draft stock and team success.

This is just my two cents, tell me if I'm crazy.

Orange Hall · Jan 12, 2013, 08:25 AM

I think that what happens is that the Illinois coaches tell the player what he should work on as a matter of individual skill development. Smart players will listen and work on their game accordingly. You often hear signed recruits indicate what their future college coach told them to do to develop their game.

WinOrElse · Jan 12, 2013, 10:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mdonsbach

Okay early morning question turning in my head. After a player has commited to us would it be common for our coaching staff to go to our commit's coach and ask them to play a certain way or to focus on certain aspects of their game. You know to try and prepare them for what they would expect from them in college?

Is that allowed or frowned upon at all?

I've never coached so I could be wrong, but common sense tells me it would usually be frowned upon. While the good coaches prepare the more talented kids for the next level, and look out for ALL their kids best interests, their primary focus is still winning games. If that means using a kid in a completely different way than he will be used at the next level, then so be it. After all, it's still that coaches kid until he leaves the team.

If the next coach plans on using the kid in a different way, often at a different position, then it's up to that coach to develop the kid as he sees fit once he enters that program. As I said, I could be wrong, but I'd think that a college coach that goes around telling HS coaches how to coach their teams would have a harder time fostering long term relationships

Jan 11, 2013, 08:11 PM	#3886
Illini34 Location: Springfield, IL Posts: 136	Just got back from the game. Here's the stats on Larry Austin that I had written down. Lincoln over Lanphier 49-39 Larry Austin Jr. 8 Points 1-4 3 point FG 1-2 FG 3-6 FT 4 Rebounds 1 Block 1 Assist __________________

Jan 12, 2013, 06:55 AM	#3894
mdonsbach Location: Bethalto, IL Posts: 1,292	Okay early morning question turning in my head. After a player has commited to us would it be common for our coaching staff to go to our commit's coach and ask them to play a certain way or to focus on certain aspects of their game. You know to try and prepare them for what they would expect from them in college? Is that allowed or frowned upon at all? __________________ Twitter

Jan 11, 2013, 03:09 PM	#3877
OrangeandBlue4eva Location: Secretcity Posts: 589	I have a couple questions and please no one blast me I am a loyal fan that watches every game, goes on the boards, etc. So next year the class coming in is class of 2013 that we just signed with 6 people right? The class of 2014 currently there is only one spot at the moment but many believe one could open up? I believe the recruits I hear most about are Lyle, Okafor, and Alexander. But the class of 2015 is where a lot of spots open up and we could land an elite class? Thanks for anyone willing to clear this up for me.

Jan 11, 2013, 06:31 PM	#3883
rtbritt Posts: 282	I was wondering if anyone has a scoop on Connor Gross, a junior, from Bement, IL. As a sophomore last season, he lead his area in scoring at like 20 points a game, while making 94 3's on the season. He also had around 60 3's as a freshman playing varsity. He is continuing his scoring and 3 point shooting as a Junior. I was wondering if Groce is looking at Gross, as we surely could use a great 3 point shooter in the future. Anyone aware of him?

Jan 11, 2013, 08:52 PM	#3887
TCTORNADO Posts: 1,839	Maverick Morgan Friday night 27 pts. on 10 of 19 shooting 7-8 FT's 14 rebounds 5 blocks Shooting 62% from field for the year. Springboro 61 Lebanon 49

Jan 12, 2013, 08:25 AM	#3899
Orange Hall Posts: 100	I think that what happens is that the Illinois coaches tell the player what he should work on as a matter of individual skill development. Smart players will listen and work on their game accordingly. You often hear signed recruits indicate what their future college coach told them to do to develop their game.