Man sometimes if feels like a blessing and curse to have Chicago in our back yard. Some days I just want to see us go all in with kids up there and others I just want to not be involved in the politics of it all.
It's messy, and it is what it is. If you aren't willing to play that game, you're going to waste time and effort trying. I think that's part of where the distaste comes from --it's not just an area where there's a lot of influence to be navigated, it's a place where if you're not on the invite list, you will be played. Fact is, for the elite recruits, they and their influencers wield the power. You don't like that, stay home.
Your comment about being all-in is a lot easier said than done, I think. I'm not sure we have what it takes as a program to get a fair shake in those circles, let alone finish the job. Despite how tricky those situations are, a good coach will be able to pick his battles, cast a wide enough net, and get guys that fit. Hopefully he gets elite guys when he's lucky enough to have a winnable battle. Assistants are so key to recruiting --you really have to have guys who can set the table. I do expect BU has enough experience to manage recruiting here. And it's possible that he gets off to a hot start and gets some momentum once people see what he can do on the court.
Really hoping this is the start of a turn-around. We've had mediocrity for too long.