USA Assistant Coach and Georgia Tech Head Coach Paul Hewitt
What kind of guys are Kyrie Irving and Josh Hairston on and off the floor?
“They’ve both conducted themselves great here. They play very hard and I’ve been very impressed with both of them. Kyrie [Irving] has an unbelievably high level of talent, while Josh [Hairston] is a very smart player who is hard-nosed and does all the right things. Josh is a good glue guy and Kyrie is a difference maker. Off the floor, I’ve been very impressed with how they’ve conducted themselves.”
Are you looking forward to seeing them in the ACC next year?
“No, not at all [laughing], not for one second, but I don’t think I have a choice.”
How do you plan to replace inside after losing Derrick Favors and Gani Lawal to the draft and Zachary Peacock to graduation?
“Well we’ve got two kids who red-shirted this year, Kammeon Holsey and Daniel Miller. Certainly, I don’t think they will put up the same numbers as the guys from last year did inside, but we’ll be a little bit different. Our perimeter will be stronger this year given the experience they gained last year; in particular Brian Oliver and Glen Rice [Jr.] I expect to make a big jump. We hope to be very competitive in the league again.”
USA Head Coach and Oklahoma Head Coach Jeff Capel
What are your expectations for this team?
“I have high expectations. I want guys to come in and work hard and be very proud and honored to represent their country. They have each done a great job of that. We selected twelve guys and the next step was to make those twelve guys a team. We have had some really intense practices and some really long days, because of that, you see camaraderie with our guys. These guys have put their egos aside and have had one agenda: to win this championship for the USA.”
Does your career at Duke as player make coaching guys like Kyrie Irving and Josh Hairston a little more special?
“Well certainly, I’m very proud of my alma mater and I still have incredible relationships with just about everyone there and when those guys [Irving and Hairston] signed in the early period I reached out to them immediately and welcomed them to the family. It makes it very special and those are two guys that I will continue to follow and root for in the fall.”
What are some things you miss most about Duke University?
“The friendships and the relationships with all the folks there.”
Are you glad you don’t have to play them in conference next year?
“Oh yeah. They are going to be very good.”
Duke Commit Kyrie Irving
I know that the FIBA is smaller than a normal ball. Does that take a lot of adjusting for ball-handling and shooting?
“Yeah it really does. Yesterday, most of my shots were going in and out or staying right on the rim, but you just have to stay focused. You have to get used to the ball in practice and then when the big games start all that goes out the window and you just play.”
A lot has been made of your rapid improvement over the last year as you clearly took on a leadership role in your Senior season. How do you see that carrying over into your Freshman year at Duke?
“Yeah definitely. Coach K is expecting a lot from me, especially since he basically put the hype on me saying that he was going to change the whole offense. All that is great, but I’m going to go in there with my head on and take on the challenge.”
Basketball is a team sport, so obviously most of your goals will be team-oriented but what are some individual goals that you've set for yourself in this upcoming season?
“Aside from winning the National Championship and doing well in the NCAA tournament, I want to adjust to college basketball as quickly as possible. I don’t want to hit the freshman wall that most freshmen hit; I want to play great the whole year.”
Playing with Dexter Strickland at St. Patrick’s, you guys have developed a bond off the court. How do you plan on keeping that friendship alive while you guys are going to school 8 miles apart?
“Everybody talks about us hating each other on the court, but off the court we are really close friends. I’m also really close friends with Harrison [Barnes], Reggie [Bullock], and Kendall [Marshall], and it’s all love.”
What former Duke player do you think your game resembles the most?
“I don’t really like to make comparisons to any past Duke players. Everyone compares me to Jason [Williams] and Bobby [Hurley], but I want to go there and create my own legacy.”
The million dollar question for all the undergrad coeds at Duke, do you have a girlfriend? [Laughing] “No I don’t.”
Is it a goal of yours to go to the NBA after a year?
“No it’s not. It’s in the back of my mind, but it’s not a primary goal of mine at this point.”
Interviews Conducted and Written Up By: Big Pappa
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
FIBA Men's U-18 - USA vs. Mexico
U.S. vs. Mexico
San Antonio, Texas – 7:41 pm CST:
Mexico was overmatched and undersized the entire game, but after getting the jitters out in the first quarter (only scoring 6 points), they ended with a respectable 32 points in the last three quarters. It looked like Team USA had gotten used to the smaller FIBA ball (only 29” in circumference) after their shooting performance. Coach Capel was also able to spread out the minutes with a comfortable lead the whole game, only one Team USA player (Amir Williams) played under 10 minutes. Amir looked a step slow tonight with a large wrap around his knee, no word on an injury though. After allowing USVI to score 63 points, Coach Capel’s bunch locked down their defense, only allowing 38 points and holding Mexico’s leading scorer (Pereda Quintero) to only 7 points.
The United States sends starters of 5-Kyrie Irving (Duke commit), 6-Vander Blue (Marquette commit), 11-Austin Rivers (Duke, Florida, and UNC recruit), 12-Josh Hairston (Duke commit), and 15-Pat Young (Florida commit) to meet Mexico. Young gets the tip back to Kyrie who gives it off to Austin, then runs around a screen to the corner and knocks down a 3. Kyrie looks much more comfortable shooting the ball tonight as he steps into the shot, in rhythm, and knocks it down. After a 24 second violation (FIBA rules have a shot-clock of only 24 seconds unlike the NCAA whose is 35) by Mexico, Josh Hairston hits a fade-away jumper after a nice post move, 5-0 USA. Mexico commits 24 second violations on three straight possessions and a after a steal and dunk, followed by an and-one dunk from Josh, Team USA’s lead is 16-0. More of the same, as the Mexico team looks nervous in the opening minutes of the game, committing careless fouls and rarely even getting a shot off on the offensive end. The first quarter closes with back to back 3-pointers from Syracuse commit Trevor Cooney, Team USA leads 36-6.
Amir Williams starts the second quarter for Young, but is quickly replaced by Young who joins Kyrie, Austin, Quincy Miller, and LeBryan Nash on the floor. Two layups on straight possessions for Quincy after air balls, on fall away 3-point attempts, by Mexico; Team USA leads 44-8. Great chemistry between Kyrie and Austin as Kyrie finds Austin in opposite corners for two open threes. A third three in under 1:30 for Austin followed by a post-move and layup from Josh and the USA lead is now 59-13. At half, Team USA leads Mexico 61-13 with Duke commits and recruits represented very well. Kyrie, Austin, and Josh are each 4/5 from the field for a total of 30 points; Kyrie also with 3 assists and 3 rebounds.
The third quarter begins with a quick drive and layup by Kyrie. The Mexican team is overmatched in every aspect of the game: size, strength, speed, and ability. Austin takes the ball to the rack on two straight possessions, one for an easy layup and he draws a foul on the other. Austin has absolutely no wasted movement in his smooth game. He plays the game effortlessly, much like his NBA idol Dwyane Wade. Kyrie stretches Team USA’s lead to 72-17 after a pull-up three from the top of the key. Great effort by Duke commits Kyrie and Josh as they continue to dive for loose balls even though Team USA is up 55 points. Mexico sends a rotation to the floor that includes three players under 6’ tall, with one guarding 6’7” Lebryan Nash. Nash quickly thanks them with a turn-around dunk and smile toward Coach Santos. The lead is 61 at the end of the third: Team USA 84, Mexico 23.
No starters play for Team USA in the fourth quarter, but Quincy Miller, Cooney, and Nash are still dominant. After a flurry of deep threes from Mexico cuts the lead to 58, Quincy answers with two flushes off misses by Cooney and Jereme Richmond. A Quincy Miller 3 from the corner puts USA up 99-38 and Richmond follows on the next possession with a layup. The final is Team USA 114, Mexico 38. Team USA finishes with 7 players (Irving, Cooney, Miller, Richmond, Nash, Rivers, and Hairston) in double-figures led by Rivers and Cooney with 16 a piece. Team USA shoots a staggering 62% from the field and holds Mexico to 21%. Duke commits play very well with Kyrie Irving finishes with 14 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists, while Hairston finishes with 11 points and 4 rebounds. Between them the missed a total of 3 shots and neither played in the fourth quarter.
Interviews with Coach Jeff Capel, Coach Paul Hewitt, and Kyrie Irving coming soon.
Written By: Big Pappa
San Antonio, Texas – 7:41 pm CST:
Mexico was overmatched and undersized the entire game, but after getting the jitters out in the first quarter (only scoring 6 points), they ended with a respectable 32 points in the last three quarters. It looked like Team USA had gotten used to the smaller FIBA ball (only 29” in circumference) after their shooting performance. Coach Capel was also able to spread out the minutes with a comfortable lead the whole game, only one Team USA player (Amir Williams) played under 10 minutes. Amir looked a step slow tonight with a large wrap around his knee, no word on an injury though. After allowing USVI to score 63 points, Coach Capel’s bunch locked down their defense, only allowing 38 points and holding Mexico’s leading scorer (Pereda Quintero) to only 7 points.
The United States sends starters of 5-Kyrie Irving (Duke commit), 6-Vander Blue (Marquette commit), 11-Austin Rivers (Duke, Florida, and UNC recruit), 12-Josh Hairston (Duke commit), and 15-Pat Young (Florida commit) to meet Mexico. Young gets the tip back to Kyrie who gives it off to Austin, then runs around a screen to the corner and knocks down a 3. Kyrie looks much more comfortable shooting the ball tonight as he steps into the shot, in rhythm, and knocks it down. After a 24 second violation (FIBA rules have a shot-clock of only 24 seconds unlike the NCAA whose is 35) by Mexico, Josh Hairston hits a fade-away jumper after a nice post move, 5-0 USA. Mexico commits 24 second violations on three straight possessions and a after a steal and dunk, followed by an and-one dunk from Josh, Team USA’s lead is 16-0. More of the same, as the Mexico team looks nervous in the opening minutes of the game, committing careless fouls and rarely even getting a shot off on the offensive end. The first quarter closes with back to back 3-pointers from Syracuse commit Trevor Cooney, Team USA leads 36-6.
Amir Williams starts the second quarter for Young, but is quickly replaced by Young who joins Kyrie, Austin, Quincy Miller, and LeBryan Nash on the floor. Two layups on straight possessions for Quincy after air balls, on fall away 3-point attempts, by Mexico; Team USA leads 44-8. Great chemistry between Kyrie and Austin as Kyrie finds Austin in opposite corners for two open threes. A third three in under 1:30 for Austin followed by a post-move and layup from Josh and the USA lead is now 59-13. At half, Team USA leads Mexico 61-13 with Duke commits and recruits represented very well. Kyrie, Austin, and Josh are each 4/5 from the field for a total of 30 points; Kyrie also with 3 assists and 3 rebounds.
The third quarter begins with a quick drive and layup by Kyrie. The Mexican team is overmatched in every aspect of the game: size, strength, speed, and ability. Austin takes the ball to the rack on two straight possessions, one for an easy layup and he draws a foul on the other. Austin has absolutely no wasted movement in his smooth game. He plays the game effortlessly, much like his NBA idol Dwyane Wade. Kyrie stretches Team USA’s lead to 72-17 after a pull-up three from the top of the key. Great effort by Duke commits Kyrie and Josh as they continue to dive for loose balls even though Team USA is up 55 points. Mexico sends a rotation to the floor that includes three players under 6’ tall, with one guarding 6’7” Lebryan Nash. Nash quickly thanks them with a turn-around dunk and smile toward Coach Santos. The lead is 61 at the end of the third: Team USA 84, Mexico 23.
No starters play for Team USA in the fourth quarter, but Quincy Miller, Cooney, and Nash are still dominant. After a flurry of deep threes from Mexico cuts the lead to 58, Quincy answers with two flushes off misses by Cooney and Jereme Richmond. A Quincy Miller 3 from the corner puts USA up 99-38 and Richmond follows on the next possession with a layup. The final is Team USA 114, Mexico 38. Team USA finishes with 7 players (Irving, Cooney, Miller, Richmond, Nash, Rivers, and Hairston) in double-figures led by Rivers and Cooney with 16 a piece. Team USA shoots a staggering 62% from the field and holds Mexico to 21%. Duke commits play very well with Kyrie Irving finishes with 14 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists, while Hairston finishes with 11 points and 4 rebounds. Between them the missed a total of 3 shots and neither played in the fourth quarter.
Interviews with Coach Jeff Capel, Coach Paul Hewitt, and Kyrie Irving coming soon.
Written By: Big Pappa
Sunday, June 27, 2010
USA vs. US Virgin Islands - Post Game Interviews
POST GAME INTERVIEWS
Duke Commit Josh Hairston:
You've said many times in past interviews that Coach K wanted you to work on your perimeter and ball-handling skills during your Senior Year so you will be able to play multiple positions when you get to Duke. With the return of Kyle Singler, do you anticipate playing more of a Small Forward role or more in the paint next year?
"I see myself playing the role Kyle plays now. One thing Coach [Krzyzewski] has told me is that I'm going to be one of those guys who backs Kyle up, so when I get down there I want to get to know him, get to know the game with him, because Kyle is a contender for National Player of the Year next year and I just want to be able to do everything Kyle can do. He is a guy who can post guys up or take guys out on the perimeter and I want to be able to do the same thing."
He's obviously a great leader, but those around him know that Coach K has a great sense of humor. Was it easy to relate to him during the recruitment process because of this?
"Oh yeah, whenever I go down there or talk to him on the phone, he's a completely different guy than what people see on TV. People see him and they think he's mean because he's got this look on his face, but he just wants the best for his players. When I'm around him off the court he's a normal guy, he's funny, he jokes around with us and he's a great guy to be around."
What former Duke player do you think your game resembles the most?
"I've heard a lot of comparisons to Shane Battier and I can see that a lot, but there are so many great Duke players from the past and for me to even put my name up there with them is crazy for me to even think about. So I'm just trying to make a name for myself and play the best Josh Hairston can play."
The Cameron Crazies are notorious for coming up with nicknames for Duke players. Do you have a nickname now or is there something you want to be known as?
"I just got one from Kyrie [Irving]. He calls me 'Jiggy' when we are on the floor. If you pay attention tomorrow you will hear him call me 'Jiggy'. I think that may be the name, but as of right now that is the only one I have."
Playing with guys like Kyrie and Austin, are you excited about the chemistry and the possibility of playing with them at the next level?
"This is actually the most time I've spent with Kyrie and we have become like brothers. We talk all the time and we're always with each other and I can see the chemistry there. Even though he hasn't committed I'm still with Austin all day and I think Austin knows what's best for him. We would definitely love to have him at Duke"
The million dollar question for all the undergrad coeds at Duke, do you have a girlfriend?
Laughing - "No I do not"
How was the feel of tonights game? It looked like the refs were calling the game pretty tight, but what did you think?
"One thing playing with teams like the U.S., you have to be able to go outside yourself and not have to play the position you normally play. All of us on our high school teams were big time scorers, and that is one thing I kind of had to adjust to. I’m used to coming down the floor and touching the ball at least every play, but I don’t have to do that here. I’m just expected to play defense, rebound, you touch the ball score it. There are times when the game can get a little hectic and you can get down on yourself, and one thing you need to do is keep your head up with a team like this. You’re playing with a USA jersey on. That’s big time! I was sitting on the bench and thinking about it, and I looked down and saw everybody, and thought this is a big time thing. And looking at the score board, we just beat a team by 68 points…we are pretty good. You just gotta go outside yourself and know it’s bigger than the last name on the back of the jersey. It’s for all the people and this great country; that’s what we are out there playing for."
Duke Recruit Quincy Miller:
"Hola senor, chicas and chicos. I'm Quincy Miller."
How did you manage to pull down so many rebounds while you were playing on the perimeter tonight?
"I just went in harder than everyone else and made plays."
You grew so fast after your Freshman year, and have the height to play PF but the skills to play shooting guard, what position do you see yourself playing in college and the pros?
"I just play mis-matches, like if I got somebody small on me I'm gonna go to the post and if I got someone big on me I'm gonna go outside."
What kind of system do you see yourself playing in - a more uptempo style or a more halfcourt setting?
"Uptempo, but I play a little halfcourt too."
After being around guys like Kyrie, Josh, and Austin, have you been able to develop chemistry with them?
"Oh yeah, those three guys are some of the greatest guys I've ever been around. Off the court and on the court."
Is Kyrie good at getting you the ball in the right spots on the floor?
"Kyrie is definitely one of the best point guards I've ever played with. He and John Wall are the two best I've ever played with."
Could you see yourself playing with them in the future?
"Most definitely"
Duke Recruit Austin Rivers:
What are some things that have made Duke one of your top choices?
"Their success in winning and getting their players to the league and of course the coach, Coach K. I think it's only right to look at a school like that."
Who is the most influential person in your life regarding your decision of where to play college basketball?
"My older brother. I see him going through a tough college experience after picking the wrong school in Georgetown, nothing on Georgetown, it just wasn't the right fit for him. Now, he is having a tough time Indiana, so he has had a really tough time in college so I listen to him the most, because you only really get one chance to do it right."
Does your dad's decision to coach the Celtics next year play a role in your college decision?
"No, he has his own career so I let him do whatever he needs to do. Whatever he does has more to do with my little brother than me, because I'm almost out of high school anyway."
What are you looking for in a school?
"A school that plays fast-paced and a place that will let me flow a little bit; where I can get a rebound and push or catch it on the wing and drive. A school that gets up and down a lot and likes to shoot. I also really like guarding man to man press defense and playing defense full court."
What position do you see yourself playing in college?
"I see myself playing the 1 or 2. I've been playing mostly point in high school and tonight I played mostly 2, but I think I will get more time at the point tomorrow and the next few days. I want to be a combo guard, but I'm always a scorer."
Do you see yourself staying in college more than one year?
"No, that's not a goal of mine, but it's whatever is best for me. I'm not a guy that says 'I'll only be there a year' I could be there three if that's what's best. My goal is one and done and I think I can do that with my work ethic."
Do you have a leader right now?
"Not really, if I had to pick Duke would be the leader right now, there is nothing wrong with that school. Carolina is coming up and I just started getting a relationship with Coach Roy Williams, but it's kinda tough because whatever school I pick the other one is going to hate me."
Growing up around the NBA, who do you pattern your game after?
"I try to pattern my game after a little of Deron [Williams] and Dwyane [Wade]. Those are my two favorite players and I record all their games. I go on youtube all the time and watch D-Wade and try to copy him. I really like the way Deron is so smooth, so I try to be a combination of the two."
Interviews Conducted and Written Up By: Big Pappa
Duke Commit Josh Hairston:
You've said many times in past interviews that Coach K wanted you to work on your perimeter and ball-handling skills during your Senior Year so you will be able to play multiple positions when you get to Duke. With the return of Kyle Singler, do you anticipate playing more of a Small Forward role or more in the paint next year?
"I see myself playing the role Kyle plays now. One thing Coach [Krzyzewski] has told me is that I'm going to be one of those guys who backs Kyle up, so when I get down there I want to get to know him, get to know the game with him, because Kyle is a contender for National Player of the Year next year and I just want to be able to do everything Kyle can do. He is a guy who can post guys up or take guys out on the perimeter and I want to be able to do the same thing."
He's obviously a great leader, but those around him know that Coach K has a great sense of humor. Was it easy to relate to him during the recruitment process because of this?
"Oh yeah, whenever I go down there or talk to him on the phone, he's a completely different guy than what people see on TV. People see him and they think he's mean because he's got this look on his face, but he just wants the best for his players. When I'm around him off the court he's a normal guy, he's funny, he jokes around with us and he's a great guy to be around."
What former Duke player do you think your game resembles the most?
"I've heard a lot of comparisons to Shane Battier and I can see that a lot, but there are so many great Duke players from the past and for me to even put my name up there with them is crazy for me to even think about. So I'm just trying to make a name for myself and play the best Josh Hairston can play."
The Cameron Crazies are notorious for coming up with nicknames for Duke players. Do you have a nickname now or is there something you want to be known as?
"I just got one from Kyrie [Irving]. He calls me 'Jiggy' when we are on the floor. If you pay attention tomorrow you will hear him call me 'Jiggy'. I think that may be the name, but as of right now that is the only one I have."
Playing with guys like Kyrie and Austin, are you excited about the chemistry and the possibility of playing with them at the next level?
"This is actually the most time I've spent with Kyrie and we have become like brothers. We talk all the time and we're always with each other and I can see the chemistry there. Even though he hasn't committed I'm still with Austin all day and I think Austin knows what's best for him. We would definitely love to have him at Duke"
The million dollar question for all the undergrad coeds at Duke, do you have a girlfriend?
Laughing - "No I do not"
How was the feel of tonights game? It looked like the refs were calling the game pretty tight, but what did you think?
"One thing playing with teams like the U.S., you have to be able to go outside yourself and not have to play the position you normally play. All of us on our high school teams were big time scorers, and that is one thing I kind of had to adjust to. I’m used to coming down the floor and touching the ball at least every play, but I don’t have to do that here. I’m just expected to play defense, rebound, you touch the ball score it. There are times when the game can get a little hectic and you can get down on yourself, and one thing you need to do is keep your head up with a team like this. You’re playing with a USA jersey on. That’s big time! I was sitting on the bench and thinking about it, and I looked down and saw everybody, and thought this is a big time thing. And looking at the score board, we just beat a team by 68 points…we are pretty good. You just gotta go outside yourself and know it’s bigger than the last name on the back of the jersey. It’s for all the people and this great country; that’s what we are out there playing for."
Duke Recruit Quincy Miller:
"Hola senor, chicas and chicos. I'm Quincy Miller."
How did you manage to pull down so many rebounds while you were playing on the perimeter tonight?
"I just went in harder than everyone else and made plays."
You grew so fast after your Freshman year, and have the height to play PF but the skills to play shooting guard, what position do you see yourself playing in college and the pros?
"I just play mis-matches, like if I got somebody small on me I'm gonna go to the post and if I got someone big on me I'm gonna go outside."
What kind of system do you see yourself playing in - a more uptempo style or a more halfcourt setting?
"Uptempo, but I play a little halfcourt too."
After being around guys like Kyrie, Josh, and Austin, have you been able to develop chemistry with them?
"Oh yeah, those three guys are some of the greatest guys I've ever been around. Off the court and on the court."
Is Kyrie good at getting you the ball in the right spots on the floor?
"Kyrie is definitely one of the best point guards I've ever played with. He and John Wall are the two best I've ever played with."
Could you see yourself playing with them in the future?
"Most definitely"
Duke Recruit Austin Rivers:
What are some things that have made Duke one of your top choices?
"Their success in winning and getting their players to the league and of course the coach, Coach K. I think it's only right to look at a school like that."
Who is the most influential person in your life regarding your decision of where to play college basketball?
"My older brother. I see him going through a tough college experience after picking the wrong school in Georgetown, nothing on Georgetown, it just wasn't the right fit for him. Now, he is having a tough time Indiana, so he has had a really tough time in college so I listen to him the most, because you only really get one chance to do it right."
Does your dad's decision to coach the Celtics next year play a role in your college decision?
"No, he has his own career so I let him do whatever he needs to do. Whatever he does has more to do with my little brother than me, because I'm almost out of high school anyway."
What are you looking for in a school?
"A school that plays fast-paced and a place that will let me flow a little bit; where I can get a rebound and push or catch it on the wing and drive. A school that gets up and down a lot and likes to shoot. I also really like guarding man to man press defense and playing defense full court."
What position do you see yourself playing in college?
"I see myself playing the 1 or 2. I've been playing mostly point in high school and tonight I played mostly 2, but I think I will get more time at the point tomorrow and the next few days. I want to be a combo guard, but I'm always a scorer."
Do you see yourself staying in college more than one year?
"No, that's not a goal of mine, but it's whatever is best for me. I'm not a guy that says 'I'll only be there a year' I could be there three if that's what's best. My goal is one and done and I think I can do that with my work ethic."
Do you have a leader right now?
"Not really, if I had to pick Duke would be the leader right now, there is nothing wrong with that school. Carolina is coming up and I just started getting a relationship with Coach Roy Williams, but it's kinda tough because whatever school I pick the other one is going to hate me."
Growing up around the NBA, who do you pattern your game after?
"I try to pattern my game after a little of Deron [Williams] and Dwyane [Wade]. Those are my two favorite players and I record all their games. I go on youtube all the time and watch D-Wade and try to copy him. I really like the way Deron is so smooth, so I try to be a combination of the two."
Interviews Conducted and Written Up By: Big Pappa
FIBA USA U-18 Basketall - USA vs. U.S. Virgin Islands
Pre-game:
I was able to catch Doc Rivers in the stands for a quick pre-game interview. I didn't want to bother him with the same old, "Will you be coaching the Celtics next year?" questions, so I decided to inquire about Duke alum Shelden Williams:
How is coaching and being around Shelden Williams, on and off the court?
"He's terrific, he was great for us. Big Baby [Glen Davis] gets hurt early and he steps in for us. Then, Glen came back and he lost his minutes, but he kept doing his job everyday. He showed up, there were games where we put him in, but he always stayed ready and that's all you can hope for. I know he would have rather played more, but as far as being a professional, he's as good as I've had."
After a handshake and a short chat with his wife (Kristen), I went back to my seat on press row to begin watching the opening ceremonies. Each team was paraded out onto the floor led by their countries flag. The amusing part was that immediately after the ceremony ended, every team that wasn't playing (all except the USA and USVI) went to the stands to take pictures with Doc.
Game:
The starters take the floor for both teams with Duke well represented. Team USA starters were 5-Kyrie Irving (Duke), 6-Vander Blue (Marquette), 11-Austin Rivers (Duke, Florida, and UNC), 12-Josh Hairston (Duke), 15-Pat Young (Florida). The story of the first quarter is defense. USVI looks very nervous and it is easy to see that they haven't encountered a man to man press defense like Team USA plays. Great team defense from the USA - switches, helps, and backside blocks. USVI is undersized inside and is attempting to make up for it with quickness, but obviously didn’t count on the quicks of Kyrie, Austin, Washington's Gaddy, Blue, and others. Coach Capel is not content to sit back and watch his guys play though, as he is constantly out on the floor directing and instructing.
Big Pat Young is too much to handle inside for the USVI team, but after 4 quick points off two dunks, he has to sit with two fouls. Quincy Miller comes off the bench and plays very well, notching 7 points and 5 rebounds in the first quarter alone. After a deep 3 from Austin in the corner, Kyrie rips the USVI PG and sends a long pass to Mizzou commit Tony Mitchell who lobs up an alley-oop for LeBryan Nash. The USA lead now stretched to 24-6 with 2:25 remaining in the 1st. More of the same as the USA goes on another quick run to close the 1st quarter up 35-8.
The 2nd quarter begins with a flurry of threes from the USVI team and Coach Capel calls a quick timeout. Out of the TO, Capel sends the starters back. Austin answers the call with a 3 from the wing and the next possesion Pat Young overpowers his defender for an easy dunk. After going 0-4 from deep in the first quarter the USVI team shoots 4-6 in the 2nd. Team USA still with a big lead as the half closes 62-28. Quincy and Austin lead Team USA in the first half with 11 points each, while Quincy also pulled down 8 boards. Leading the USVI is Merwin Potter Jr. with 11 points.
After ending the first half with a strong drive and two free throws, Kyrie picks up right where he left off with a quick move by his defender and an uncontested layup, and follows it up with a jumper from the corner on the next possession. Pat Young is again relegated to the bench following his 4th foul, Capel doesn't look worried as he glances at the scoreboard to see his team up almost 40 points halfway through the 3rd quarter. After two more free throws from Kyrie, Quincy enters the game and immediately makes his presence felt with a bucket and a foul. A few minutes later, following two made free throws from Austin, Kyrie swats USVI's Jones' layup attempt and takes it coast to coast for a beautiful reverse layup. The 3rd quarter ends with Team USA up 95-48.
Pat Young back in the game to start the 4th quarter and delivers a no-look pass to
Richmond for a dunk to hit the 100 point mark for the USA. Syracuse commit Trevor Cooney coming alive in the 4th with back to back 3 pointers and shortly thereafter Rivers rips Jones for a quick layup followed by a deep 3 on a great look from Kyrie.
Josh Hairston makes a great move in the post with a power dribble and a dunk with two USVI defenders hanging on him; he then sinks the free throw. After yet another 3 from Austin, Team USA attempts to let up and finishes the game 131-63.
Austin ends the game as Team USA's leading scorer with 18 points followed by Quincy, Cooney, and Nash with 15. Kyrie finished with 11 points, 6 boards, and 3 dimes, while Quincy broke the USA Basketball record for rebounds with 17.
Written By: Big Pappa
I was able to catch Doc Rivers in the stands for a quick pre-game interview. I didn't want to bother him with the same old, "Will you be coaching the Celtics next year?" questions, so I decided to inquire about Duke alum Shelden Williams:
How is coaching and being around Shelden Williams, on and off the court?
"He's terrific, he was great for us. Big Baby [Glen Davis] gets hurt early and he steps in for us. Then, Glen came back and he lost his minutes, but he kept doing his job everyday. He showed up, there were games where we put him in, but he always stayed ready and that's all you can hope for. I know he would have rather played more, but as far as being a professional, he's as good as I've had."
After a handshake and a short chat with his wife (Kristen), I went back to my seat on press row to begin watching the opening ceremonies. Each team was paraded out onto the floor led by their countries flag. The amusing part was that immediately after the ceremony ended, every team that wasn't playing (all except the USA and USVI) went to the stands to take pictures with Doc.
Game:
The starters take the floor for both teams with Duke well represented. Team USA starters were 5-Kyrie Irving (Duke), 6-Vander Blue (Marquette), 11-Austin Rivers (Duke, Florida, and UNC), 12-Josh Hairston (Duke), 15-Pat Young (Florida). The story of the first quarter is defense. USVI looks very nervous and it is easy to see that they haven't encountered a man to man press defense like Team USA plays. Great team defense from the USA - switches, helps, and backside blocks. USVI is undersized inside and is attempting to make up for it with quickness, but obviously didn’t count on the quicks of Kyrie, Austin, Washington's Gaddy, Blue, and others. Coach Capel is not content to sit back and watch his guys play though, as he is constantly out on the floor directing and instructing.
Big Pat Young is too much to handle inside for the USVI team, but after 4 quick points off two dunks, he has to sit with two fouls. Quincy Miller comes off the bench and plays very well, notching 7 points and 5 rebounds in the first quarter alone. After a deep 3 from Austin in the corner, Kyrie rips the USVI PG and sends a long pass to Mizzou commit Tony Mitchell who lobs up an alley-oop for LeBryan Nash. The USA lead now stretched to 24-6 with 2:25 remaining in the 1st. More of the same as the USA goes on another quick run to close the 1st quarter up 35-8.
The 2nd quarter begins with a flurry of threes from the USVI team and Coach Capel calls a quick timeout. Out of the TO, Capel sends the starters back. Austin answers the call with a 3 from the wing and the next possesion Pat Young overpowers his defender for an easy dunk. After going 0-4 from deep in the first quarter the USVI team shoots 4-6 in the 2nd. Team USA still with a big lead as the half closes 62-28. Quincy and Austin lead Team USA in the first half with 11 points each, while Quincy also pulled down 8 boards. Leading the USVI is Merwin Potter Jr. with 11 points.
After ending the first half with a strong drive and two free throws, Kyrie picks up right where he left off with a quick move by his defender and an uncontested layup, and follows it up with a jumper from the corner on the next possession. Pat Young is again relegated to the bench following his 4th foul, Capel doesn't look worried as he glances at the scoreboard to see his team up almost 40 points halfway through the 3rd quarter. After two more free throws from Kyrie, Quincy enters the game and immediately makes his presence felt with a bucket and a foul. A few minutes later, following two made free throws from Austin, Kyrie swats USVI's Jones' layup attempt and takes it coast to coast for a beautiful reverse layup. The 3rd quarter ends with Team USA up 95-48.
Pat Young back in the game to start the 4th quarter and delivers a no-look pass to
Richmond for a dunk to hit the 100 point mark for the USA. Syracuse commit Trevor Cooney coming alive in the 4th with back to back 3 pointers and shortly thereafter Rivers rips Jones for a quick layup followed by a deep 3 on a great look from Kyrie.
Josh Hairston makes a great move in the post with a power dribble and a dunk with two USVI defenders hanging on him; he then sinks the free throw. After yet another 3 from Austin, Team USA attempts to let up and finishes the game 131-63.
Austin ends the game as Team USA's leading scorer with 18 points followed by Quincy, Cooney, and Nash with 15. Kyrie finished with 11 points, 6 boards, and 3 dimes, while Quincy broke the USA Basketball record for rebounds with 17.
Written By: Big Pappa
Monday, June 21, 2010
Shabazz Muhammad and Alex Murphy
These two 2012 wings are very coveted members of any recruiting class by themselves. After the Tournament of Champions Tournament in the Triangle, both received offers from the reigning National Champion Duke Blue Devils. Clearly, when looking at Duke's future, Coach Mike Krzyzewski and staff would love to see the two of them playing together for his squad.
While they both play small forward currently, it's really hard to slap a label on either player right now as they are both so young and versatile. Shabazz (called "Bazz" by his team mates) and his family see him as a Shooting Guard in college and professionally and at 6'5", he is the perfect size for that position on both levels. Alex stands 6'8" at this time, but seeing as his brother stands 6'10" and his Dad stood 6'9", many believe he will reach the same height. Alex is a bit more versatile than Erik who currently plays for the Florida Gators, can handle the ball well, and has a wonderful outside shot for a player his size.
There has been a recent flurry of activity regarding Alex Murphy on Twitter, starting with this @TheRecruitScoop tweet:
The piece he was referring to was a comment from a reader who reported having some talks with Alex's father, Jay Murphy and the talks were reportedly pro-Duke. I can't go into any other details regarding the post, as that information is property of the UCONN Premium Scout.com site. What we know here at Dukehoop is that Alex has always stood by the fact that he will commit when he it feels right. We do know that the visit went very well and that the Murphy family may not be as enthralled with Billy Donovan and staff as they are with Duke. A National Championship will do that.
As to the link between Murphy and Muhammad, the two are good friends, and both respect each other's games.
Alex even got Shabazz on Twitter recently: http://twitter.com/AlexMurphy5/status/16281261662
And calls him "my man": http://twitter.com/AlexMurphy5/status/16283826088
Duke is in very good shape with Murphy and will remain in the hunt for Shabazz as one of his leaders along with unc and Kansas. Landing Murphy would seemingly give them a leg up on the competition, and it may come before the Summer is over...
Here's some more reading on the two:
http://www.newenglandrecruitingreport.com/news/article/1444/Duke-Offers-Murphy.php
http://www.zagsblog.com/2010/06/01/duke-offers-2012-duo-of-murphy-muhammad/
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/may/27/shabazz-muhammad-052710/
While they both play small forward currently, it's really hard to slap a label on either player right now as they are both so young and versatile. Shabazz (called "Bazz" by his team mates) and his family see him as a Shooting Guard in college and professionally and at 6'5", he is the perfect size for that position on both levels. Alex stands 6'8" at this time, but seeing as his brother stands 6'10" and his Dad stood 6'9", many believe he will reach the same height. Alex is a bit more versatile than Erik who currently plays for the Florida Gators, can handle the ball well, and has a wonderful outside shot for a player his size.
There has been a recent flurry of activity regarding Alex Murphy on Twitter, starting with this @TheRecruitScoop tweet:
Check out this premium Scout.com piece which entails Coach K's pitch to Alex Murphy '12. It looks like a done deal at http://bit.ly/d8UYQ5
Alex Kline
TheRecruitScoop
The piece he was referring to was a comment from a reader who reported having some talks with Alex's father, Jay Murphy and the talks were reportedly pro-Duke. I can't go into any other details regarding the post, as that information is property of the UCONN Premium Scout.com site. What we know here at Dukehoop is that Alex has always stood by the fact that he will commit when he it feels right. We do know that the visit went very well and that the Murphy family may not be as enthralled with Billy Donovan and staff as they are with Duke. A National Championship will do that.
As to the link between Murphy and Muhammad, the two are good friends, and both respect each other's games.
Alex even got Shabazz on Twitter recently: http://twitter.com/AlexMurphy5/status/16281261662
And calls him "my man": http://twitter.com/AlexMurphy5/status/16283826088
Duke is in very good shape with Murphy and will remain in the hunt for Shabazz as one of his leaders along with unc and Kansas. Landing Murphy would seemingly give them a leg up on the competition, and it may come before the Summer is over...
Here's some more reading on the two:
http://www.newenglandrecruitingreport.com/news/article/1444/Duke-Offers-Murphy.php
http://www.zagsblog.com/2010/06/01/duke-offers-2012-duo-of-murphy-muhammad/
http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2010/may/27/shabazz-muhammad-052710/
Friday, June 18, 2010
The Face and The Beard in the NBA?
For all the talk of how these two would never catch on in the NBA, they sure are getting a lot of looks in the never ending cycle of NBA Pre-Draft camps. Depending on your mock draft site, you'll see Brian as the 13th pick in the 2nd round (43rd overall) at DraftExpress.com or Jon as the 22nd pick in the 2nd round to the Boston Celtics at nbadraft.net.
Their senior teammate, Lance Thomas worked out for his hometown Nets earlier this Summer, and we think he has a definite chance to either catch on to an NBA roster somewhere down the line or play for good money overseas. A player with Lance's tenacity on defense, leadership, and charisma will be a great addition to any collection of me-first athletes in the world.
Now, none of this matters until 5 days from now, when all it takes is for one team to fall in love with you. Here's some reading to tide you over until then:
Here's a realistic write-up on Jon's abilities and liabilities.
Is Brian Zoubek a sleeper?
Scheyer and Zoubek work out for the Nets.
Timberwolves work out Zoubek
The Jazz worked out Scheyer
Jon works out for the Blazers Friday, June 18th
Zoubs works out for the Blazers Thursday, June 17th
Thursday, June 17, 2010
2010-11 Schedule Update
Via Philly.com, the Temple Owls have scheduled a date with death to come into Cameron Indoor Stadium on February 23rd, 2011. Best known for John Chaney (my hero for his press conference tirade at Calimari) and Bill Cosby's Jello Pudding Pops, the Owls should have their hands full coming into Cameron. Duke carries a 77 game non conference home winning streak into the 2011 season, and as long as they can survive an early, tough test from the Michigan State Spartans, should have an even longer streak going.
See the rest of the schedule that we know so far here: http://dukehoop.blogspot.com/2010/06/2010-11-schedule-what-we-know.html
By that time, Coach K will have surpassed Deano for career wins and then some. February 23rd, 2009, Duke was at 23 wins. Hit that mark next year, and K will have twelve more wins than The Nose. Let's hope it happens on Coach K Court...
How Does Kyrie Irving Rank With Recent #1 Rated PG Recruits?
Kyrie Irving became the first #1 Rated PG commitment for Duke that actually will enroll at Duke since Chris Duhon in the Class of 2000 (Shaun Livingston was a Duke commit and #1 rated PG in 2004, but never made it to Durham.)
While the expectations for Kyrie are sky-high, is it that much of a stretch to predict he will perform at least as well as the last 5 #1 rated PGs to go to college? Let's take a look at their Freshman years:
2002
Ray Felton -- UNC
GM MIN PTS REB AST TO A/T
35 35.4 12.9 4.1 6.7 3.7 1.81
2003
Chris Paul -- Wake Forest
GM MIN PTS REB AST TO A/T
31 33.6 14.8 3.3 5.9 2.6 2.23
2006
Ty Lawson -- UNC
GM MIN PTS REB AST TO A/T
38 25.7 10.2 2.9 5.6 2.2 2.57
2007
Derrick Rose -- Memphis
GM MIN PTS REB AST TO A/T
40 29.2 14.9 4.5 4.7 2.7 1.8/
2009
John Wall -- Kentucky
GM MIN PTS REB AST TO A/T
37 34.8 16.6 4.3 6.5 4.0 1.62
Just by averaging these numbers out, we can extrapolate the following.
**I am not an idiot. I don't expect these to be the actual numbers...
2010
Kyrie Irving -- Duke
GM MIN PTS REB AST TO A/T
36 31.7 13.9 3.8 5.9 3.0 2.01
Compare this to our PG from last year, Jon Scheyer:
2010
Jon Scheyer
GM MIN PTS REB AST TO A/T
40 36.8 18.2 3.6 4.9 1.6 2.98
While Kyrie will obviously not play as many minutes as Jon did last year, he should play more than the 25.7 played by Ty Lawson in 2005. Kyrie will have the ball in his hands from Day 1 and will play in a fast-paced offense more similar to the other #1 PG recruits than to the Duke offense of last year so he will have many opportunities to score and pad the assist numbers. If he can control the turnovers and bring down some rebounds in that high-paced offense, you should see Kyrie's numbers fall more in line with the top tier of these five players than the bottom.
Is it Countdown to Craziness time yet?
*all stats from ESPN.com
*all recruit rankings from rscihoops.com
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Team USA U18 Team Update
Congrats to Josh Hairston, Kyrie Irving, and Quincy Miller, Amir Williams, and Austin Rivers for making the U18 USA Olympic team.
2 of the five will definitely represent not only Duke in the future, but also their country in the FIBA Americas tournament. We're still waiting on Quincy and Amir to choose the right blue uniform to put on...
Here's an article about Kyrie's performance down in San Antonio: http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/duke_signee_irving_has_star_potential_96444609.html?ua=m&c=y
For the full team roster, go here: http://www.zagsblog.com/2010/06/16/usa-under-18-team-finalized/
The following guys made the team:
Vander Blue, Trevor Cooney, Abdul Gaddy, Josh Hairston, Kyrie Irving, Quincy Miller, Tony Mitchell, LeBryan Nash, Jereme Richmond, Austin Rivers, Amir Williams and Patric Young.
If you read our earlier post on the Team USA tryouts here: http://dukehoop.blogspot.com/2010/06/duke-recruits-this-weekend.html, you would know that Team USA has the following schedule:
Following the June 16 announcement of the 2010 USA U18 National Team that will compete in the FIBA Americas U18 Championship, the squad will train that afternoon starting at 4:00 p.m. The team is scheduled to remain in San Antonio and train twice a day starting at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., with scrimmages scheduled against the 2010 USA Basketball Men’s U17 World Championship Team in the afternoons of June 21 and 22, and against the Brazil U18 National Team on June 23.
The FIBA Americas Men’s U18 Championship will feature eight national teams from North, South and Central America and the Caribbean. On March 5 the draw was held to determine the first round groups, and the USA was placed into Group A, along with Argentina, Mexico and the Virgin Islands. Group B includes Brazil, Canada, Puerto Rico and Uruguay. The U.S. will open preliminary play against the Virgin Islands on June 26 at 7:00 p.m. (all times listed are local, CDT). On June 27 the USA will face Mexico at 7:00 p.m. and will close preliminary play against South American rivals Argentina on June 28 at 7:00 p.m. The semifinals are slated for June 29, and the finals will be held June 30.
Congratulations again for all who made the team!
2 of the five will definitely represent not only Duke in the future, but also their country in the FIBA Americas tournament. We're still waiting on Quincy and Amir to choose the right blue uniform to put on...
Here's an article about Kyrie's performance down in San Antonio: http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/duke_signee_irving_has_star_potential_96444609.html?ua=m&c=y
For the full team roster, go here: http://www.zagsblog.com/2010/06/16/usa-under-18-team-finalized/
The following guys made the team:
Vander Blue, Trevor Cooney, Abdul Gaddy, Josh Hairston, Kyrie Irving, Quincy Miller, Tony Mitchell, LeBryan Nash, Jereme Richmond, Austin Rivers, Amir Williams and Patric Young.
If you read our earlier post on the Team USA tryouts here: http://dukehoop.blogspot.com/2010/06/duke-recruits-this-weekend.html, you would know that Team USA has the following schedule:
Following the June 16 announcement of the 2010 USA U18 National Team that will compete in the FIBA Americas U18 Championship, the squad will train that afternoon starting at 4:00 p.m. The team is scheduled to remain in San Antonio and train twice a day starting at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., with scrimmages scheduled against the 2010 USA Basketball Men’s U17 World Championship Team in the afternoons of June 21 and 22, and against the Brazil U18 National Team on June 23.
The FIBA Americas Men’s U18 Championship will feature eight national teams from North, South and Central America and the Caribbean. On March 5 the draw was held to determine the first round groups, and the USA was placed into Group A, along with Argentina, Mexico and the Virgin Islands. Group B includes Brazil, Canada, Puerto Rico and Uruguay. The U.S. will open preliminary play against the Virgin Islands on June 26 at 7:00 p.m. (all times listed are local, CDT). On June 27 the USA will face Mexico at 7:00 p.m. and will close preliminary play against South American rivals Argentina on June 28 at 7:00 p.m. The semifinals are slated for June 29, and the finals will be held June 30.
Congratulations again for all who made the team!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
2010-11 Schedule -- What We Know
November 22nd and 23rd CBE Basketball Tournament Semifinals and Finals in Kansas City, MO. This field is pretty loaded with Duke, Kansas State, Gonzaga, and Marquette all potentially matching up in KC.
November 29th Duke vs. Oregon Location TBA (Kyle's Homecoming Game with bonus of playing little brother EJ.)
December 1st Duke vs. Michigan State at Cameron Indoor Stadium.
December 4th vs. Butler in the IZOD Center E. Rutherford, NJ.
We'll also play Miami, NC State, and UVA twice as our home-and-home partners next year (in addition to the standard UNC-UMD pair). We'll play BC, GT, and Clemson only in Cameron, and FSU, VT, and WF only in their gyms.
Not a bad little schedule we've got on our hands next year. The early season stretch form November 22nd through December 4th should show the true measure of our team as Duke potentially plays two of Gonzaga, Marquette, and Kansas State, then goes home to eat Thanksgiving Dinner. The following Monday, we travel to Oregon to play the Ducks (maybe Kyle can stay out there) and with little rest, come back to play Michigan State in Cameron on December 1st. 3 days later we're in New Jersey for an encore of the National Title game against a tough Butler team.
So much for Duke not scheduling tough opponents...
November 29th Duke vs. Oregon Location TBA (Kyle's Homecoming Game with bonus of playing little brother EJ.)
December 1st Duke vs. Michigan State at Cameron Indoor Stadium.
December 4th vs. Butler in the IZOD Center E. Rutherford, NJ.
We'll also play Miami, NC State, and UVA twice as our home-and-home partners next year (in addition to the standard UNC-UMD pair). We'll play BC, GT, and Clemson only in Cameron, and FSU, VT, and WF only in their gyms.
Not a bad little schedule we've got on our hands next year. The early season stretch form November 22nd through December 4th should show the true measure of our team as Duke potentially plays two of Gonzaga, Marquette, and Kansas State, then goes home to eat Thanksgiving Dinner. The following Monday, we travel to Oregon to play the Ducks (maybe Kyle can stay out there) and with little rest, come back to play Michigan State in Cameron on December 1st. 3 days later we're in New Jersey for an encore of the National Title game against a tough Butler team.
So much for Duke not scheduling tough opponents...
Monday, June 14, 2010
Duke Recruits This Week
As you all know, Summer is the busy time for AAU basketball. Coming up this weekend, a lot of the high-major prospects will take time off from playing with their traveling teams and travel up to the NBAPA Camp in Charlottesville, VA. For a list of all the invitees, check Scout.com here.
For all the Duke targets attending, stay right here:
Tyler Adams, Isiah Austin, Anthony Davis, Amir Garrett, Amile Jefferson, Tyler Lewis, Marshall Plumlee, JP Tokoto, and Deuce Bello.
Duke has recently turned up the heat again on Marshall Plumlee, and it will be interesting to see how Anthony Davis responds after his injury last weekend. Tyler Lewis is always an exciting player to watch, and it will be fun to see how he competes with all the talent on the UVA campus.
If you noticed a couple of names missing, they are probably going to be in San Antonio, Texas for two days starting today trying out for the USA U18 team. There were only 19 players invited, so it should be an honor for all those attending. See the full list here.
Duke has quite a few incoming Freshman and recruits trying out for the opportunity to represent their country:
Quincy Miller, Austin Rivers, Amir Williams, Michael Gbinije, Josh Hairston, and Kyrie Irving have all been invited to participate this weekend. 6 out of 19 ain't bad... Not to mention, former Duke player Jeff Capel is the head coach and Jay Williams will be assisting in picking out the team.
Kyrie actually had a tough decision to make, as he was born in Australia while his father, Drederick Irving was playing professionally down under. He could have played for USA or Australia, but chose to represent his father's birth country and should get to spend valuable time with one of his best friend's and potential Duke backcourt mate, Austin Rivers.
Congrats to all those mentioned as their hard work is paying off in a big way!
A. Rowe
For all the Duke targets attending, stay right here:
Tyler Adams, Isiah Austin, Anthony Davis, Amir Garrett, Amile Jefferson, Tyler Lewis, Marshall Plumlee, JP Tokoto, and Deuce Bello.
Duke has recently turned up the heat again on Marshall Plumlee, and it will be interesting to see how Anthony Davis responds after his injury last weekend. Tyler Lewis is always an exciting player to watch, and it will be fun to see how he competes with all the talent on the UVA campus.
If you noticed a couple of names missing, they are probably going to be in San Antonio, Texas for two days starting today trying out for the USA U18 team. There were only 19 players invited, so it should be an honor for all those attending. See the full list here.
Duke has quite a few incoming Freshman and recruits trying out for the opportunity to represent their country:
Quincy Miller, Austin Rivers, Amir Williams, Michael Gbinije, Josh Hairston, and Kyrie Irving have all been invited to participate this weekend. 6 out of 19 ain't bad... Not to mention, former Duke player Jeff Capel is the head coach and Jay Williams will be assisting in picking out the team.
Kyrie actually had a tough decision to make, as he was born in Australia while his father, Drederick Irving was playing professionally down under. He could have played for USA or Australia, but chose to represent his father's birth country and should get to spend valuable time with one of his best friend's and potential Duke backcourt mate, Austin Rivers.
Congrats to all those mentioned as their hard work is paying off in a big way!
A. Rowe
Quinn Cook to Oak Hill Academy?
Heard from a couple of reliable sources that Quinn Cook will follow in his godbrother Nolan Smith's footsteps and play for Coach Steve Smith at Oak Hill Academy in Mouth of Wilson, VA.
Oak Hill has a wonderful basketball program and has a great history of taking talented DMV guards (Smith, Ty Lawson) and placing them on a path to success in the ACC and then the NBA. We can all hope that Quinn has a similar career...
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Chris Paul Skills Camp
CP3 puts on an invitation-only camp for the top high school and collegiate guards in the country. A couple of forwards joined the camp this year, with local interest. Harrison Barnes and Kyle Singler were two of the non-guards to play at the camp and by all accounts, stood out head and shoulders above the rest (relatively and figuratively.)
For full coverage, see Ryan Feldman from The Hoops Report on his various online mediums:
Twitter: http://twitter.com/TheHoopsReport
TheHoopsReport.com: http://www.thehoopsreport.com/article.aspx?id=509
Marcus Shockley from accbasketballrecruiting.com has some solid coverage from early in the tournament as well:
Twitter: http://twitter.com/silverbax
ACCBasketballRecruiting.com: http://accbasketballrecruiting.wordpress.com/2010/06/11/chris-paul-elite-camp-2010-day-one/
For full coverage, see Ryan Feldman from The Hoops Report on his various online mediums:
Twitter: http://twitter.com/TheHoopsReport
TheHoopsReport.com: http://www.thehoopsreport.com/article.aspx?id=509
Marcus Shockley from accbasketballrecruiting.com has some solid coverage from early in the tournament as well:
Twitter: http://twitter.com/silverbax
ACCBasketballRecruiting.com: http://accbasketballrecruiting.wordpress.com/2010/06/11/chris-paul-elite-camp-2010-day-one/
Saturday, June 12, 2010
K Academy
One thing that's definitely on my bucket list is a trip to the K Academy. Here's more on the fantasy camp:
For a more in-depth look at the camp, read Gene Wojciechowski's column on ESPN.com here.Now in its eighth year, K Academy will once again bring team-building techniques into an once-in-a-lifetime experience for the ultimate Duke or college basketball fan. Every camper will spend five days in America’s #1 college sports venue – Cameron Indoor Stadium – where they’ll go from opening day tryouts to Sunday’s championship tournament. Along the way campers will play numerous games on Coach K Court in Cameron and learn the inside scoop on Duke’s three-time national championship program.
A lively social program, including a charity auction benefiting Durham’s Emily Krzyzewski Center, completes the experience. All campers reside in the four-star and recently renovated Washington Duke Inn & Golf Course located on the Duke University campus. And by popular demand we have built in optional golf and an executive physical testing time into the program.
Tuition for the K Academy is $10,000. Enrollment is limited and participants must be 35 years or older.
Friday, June 11, 2010
2011 Recruiting
Duke already has two commitments for the 2011 class in Michael Gbinije and Tyler Adams.
Michael Gbinije
A 6'6" Small Forward Prospect from Benedictine High School in Richmond, VA, Gbinije is known as a smooth and talented baller. His effortless skills on the court have often been confused for a lack of intensity, but he's so under control with little to no wasted motion that it could be just that, confusion. Nevertheless, Mike G. made a wonderful college choice if this is his only knock as the Duke staff commands full effort at all times. Following a short courtship, Gbinije became Duke's first commitment for the 2011 class, and the first recruit targeted by Nate James to sign with Duke.
Tyler Adams
The 6'9" 260lb back to the basket center from Mississippi was Nate James' second commitment and followed Gbinije's path of a short recruitment followed by a commitment to Duke. While raw physically, Tyler is quite a specimen for reportedly (according to him) spending little time in the weight room. Tyler will serve a role at Duke that was crucial to the 2010 run in rebounding and defense, but does not play much above the rim. If you are willing to accept that as his role, you will be very pleased with the contributions of this young man.
Austin Rivers
The ultra-talented shooting guard from Winter Park, Florida has reopened his recruitment recently after committing to the Florida Gators as a high school freshman. Duke is by far the leader for Rivers, but has some competition in UCLA, North Carolina, Kansas, and Texas. All reliable reports have Austin announcing his commitment in August, and as long as the Devils are able to seal the deal, he will join them for at least the 2012 season.
Quincy Miller
Quincy is going to be a serious matchup problem for whoever plays against him in the future. Depending on who you ask, he's anywhere from 6'8"-6'10" but plays like a guard. Standing 5'11" his Freshman year, he hit a chia pet style growth spurt but still maintains his guard skills from when he was shorter. With a solid outside shot, decent handle, and enough size to get his shot up around the rim, he's hard to guard for a SF and too quick for most PFs. Early reports had Duke in a strong position following their Elite Camp last year, but he seems to favor Kentucky more these days. Duke fans should hope for sanctions or the lure of the NBA for Calipari if they want to land "Q".
Anthony Davis
Like Quincy, Anthony had a recent 8 inch growth spurt. His happened a year later though and allowed Davis to stay under the radar until a few solid performances at AAU events earlier this year. With the skills of a guard, but the height of a forward, Davis has been the buzz of the AAU circuit this Summer. The Duke coaching staff is in the evaluation stage with Davis and are very interested in watching his ability to adjust to his new body.
Amir Williams
As you can see from the last two players mentioned, Power Forward is a position of importance for the 2011 recruiting class. Amir is a very talented, 6'9", 210 lbs post player from Detroit Country Day High School (former school of Shane Battier.) The staff is high on Amir and he believes he has a committable offer from Duke to play basketball. My sources tell me he has not been officially offered, but they would not turn him down if he wanted to commit, so maybe he does...
Chasson Randle
Chasson is a 2011 guard that reminds us a little of Nolan Smith. He's been compared to a number of past Duke guards and we can see a little of all of them (Sean Dockery, Daniel Ewing, Chris Duhon.) His versatility is something the staff is looking for in a number of their new prospects as he would be able to play either guard position in college. In the AAU games we saw him play this Summer, he tended to defer to his teammates a little more than we would have liked, but he is very talented. Not to mention, he's #1 in his High School class academically. Sounds like a Duke kid to us...
Michael Gbinije
A 6'6" Small Forward Prospect from Benedictine High School in Richmond, VA, Gbinije is known as a smooth and talented baller. His effortless skills on the court have often been confused for a lack of intensity, but he's so under control with little to no wasted motion that it could be just that, confusion. Nevertheless, Mike G. made a wonderful college choice if this is his only knock as the Duke staff commands full effort at all times. Following a short courtship, Gbinije became Duke's first commitment for the 2011 class, and the first recruit targeted by Nate James to sign with Duke.
Tyler Adams
The 6'9" 260lb back to the basket center from Mississippi was Nate James' second commitment and followed Gbinije's path of a short recruitment followed by a commitment to Duke. While raw physically, Tyler is quite a specimen for reportedly (according to him) spending little time in the weight room. Tyler will serve a role at Duke that was crucial to the 2010 run in rebounding and defense, but does not play much above the rim. If you are willing to accept that as his role, you will be very pleased with the contributions of this young man.
Austin Rivers
The ultra-talented shooting guard from Winter Park, Florida has reopened his recruitment recently after committing to the Florida Gators as a high school freshman. Duke is by far the leader for Rivers, but has some competition in UCLA, North Carolina, Kansas, and Texas. All reliable reports have Austin announcing his commitment in August, and as long as the Devils are able to seal the deal, he will join them for at least the 2012 season.
Quincy Miller
Quincy is going to be a serious matchup problem for whoever plays against him in the future. Depending on who you ask, he's anywhere from 6'8"-6'10" but plays like a guard. Standing 5'11" his Freshman year, he hit a chia pet style growth spurt but still maintains his guard skills from when he was shorter. With a solid outside shot, decent handle, and enough size to get his shot up around the rim, he's hard to guard for a SF and too quick for most PFs. Early reports had Duke in a strong position following their Elite Camp last year, but he seems to favor Kentucky more these days. Duke fans should hope for sanctions or the lure of the NBA for Calipari if they want to land "Q".
Anthony Davis
Like Quincy, Anthony had a recent 8 inch growth spurt. His happened a year later though and allowed Davis to stay under the radar until a few solid performances at AAU events earlier this year. With the skills of a guard, but the height of a forward, Davis has been the buzz of the AAU circuit this Summer. The Duke coaching staff is in the evaluation stage with Davis and are very interested in watching his ability to adjust to his new body.
Amir Williams
As you can see from the last two players mentioned, Power Forward is a position of importance for the 2011 recruiting class. Amir is a very talented, 6'9", 210 lbs post player from Detroit Country Day High School (former school of Shane Battier.) The staff is high on Amir and he believes he has a committable offer from Duke to play basketball. My sources tell me he has not been officially offered, but they would not turn him down if he wanted to commit, so maybe he does...
Chasson Randle
Chasson is a 2011 guard that reminds us a little of Nolan Smith. He's been compared to a number of past Duke guards and we can see a little of all of them (Sean Dockery, Daniel Ewing, Chris Duhon.) His versatility is something the staff is looking for in a number of their new prospects as he would be able to play either guard position in college. In the AAU games we saw him play this Summer, he tended to defer to his teammates a little more than we would have liked, but he is very talented. Not to mention, he's #1 in his High School class academically. Sounds like a Duke kid to us...
2010 Summer
Coming off an unexpected title run and an elated feeling of satisfaction, I've decided to crank up a little blog to post my thoughts about Duke Basketball. I'm a longtime Duke fan who lives in Durham, has a few connections to the program, and is consumed by Duke Basketball and College Basketball in general in my free time. I decided to use that free time a little bit more productively and keeping my thoughts localized on the interwebs here for everyone to see. I'll update this as much as time will allow, most likely starting after my wedding and honeymoon, when I go to watch the Triangle's best ballers compete in the NC Pro-Am over on the NCCU campus.
Here's the link for the NC Pro-Am: http://www.ncproam.com/
Confirmed guests so far include CJ Leslie, Ryan Harrow, Tracy Smith, Lo Brown, Harrison Barnes, Reggie Bullock, Kendall Marshall, Kyrie Irving, Josh Hairston, Tyler Thornton, Mason Plumlee, Miles Plumlee, Ryan Kelly, Kyle Singler, Nolan Smith, Andre Dawkins, Seth Curry, Jerry Stackhouse, and many, many others...
A. Rowe
Here's the link for the NC Pro-Am: http://www.ncproam.com/
Confirmed guests so far include CJ Leslie, Ryan Harrow, Tracy Smith, Lo Brown, Harrison Barnes, Reggie Bullock, Kendall Marshall, Kyrie Irving, Josh Hairston, Tyler Thornton, Mason Plumlee, Miles Plumlee, Ryan Kelly, Kyle Singler, Nolan Smith, Andre Dawkins, Seth Curry, Jerry Stackhouse, and many, many others...
A. Rowe
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