Is Obekpa Next? No! He's staying!

[beast of the east]

Howland is a step backwards...Lav is our coach. Lets hope we can land some blue chippers for the future or nab a legit transfer or two. there is plenty still out there.

A step backwards from who? Lavin?? I have a hard time believing that. Howland has his faults, but he's levels above Lavin.

I know you are reasonable, and yes, Howland is a better strategist and maybe teacher also. Could you imagine Jordan staying here playing for a hardass? Or Harrison, who was treated strictly, but also compassionately by Lavin. I know Howland would bring his own kids in, but I think one thing Lavin has done extremely well is handle all the issues that came up over the past 2 seasons.

 

[redfazed]

Howland is a step backwards...Lav is our coach. Lets hope we can land some blue chippers for the future or nab a legit transfer or two. there is plenty still out there.

A step backwards from who? Lavin?? I have a hard time believing that. Howland has his faults, but he's levels above Lavin.

I know you are reasonable, and yes, Howland is a better strategist and maybe teacher also. Could you imagine Jordan staying here playing for a hardass? Or Harrison, who was treated strictly, but also compassionately by Lavin. I know Howland would bring his own kids in, but I think one thing Lavin has done extremely well is handle all the issues that came up over the past 2 seasons.

Why wouldn't Jordan play for a hardass? Maybe that's the kind of leadership some of these kids are looking for.

 

[1and1sju]

Howland is a step backwards...Lav is our coach. Lets hope we can land some blue chippers for the future or nab a legit transfer or two. there is plenty still out there.

A step backwards from who? Lavin?? I have a hard time believing that. Howland has his faults, but he's levels above Lavin.

I know you are reasonable, and yes, Howland is a better strategist and maybe teacher also. Could you imagine Jordan staying here playing for a hardass? Or Harrison, who was treated strictly, but also compassionately by Lavin. I know Howland would bring his own kids in, but I think one thing Lavin has done extremely well is handle all the issues that came up over the past 2 seasons.

I used to think the same thing. In fact I thought the best job Lavin did this year was getting the players to remain focused and committed even after the 5 game losing streak. Things could have really fell apart, but they didn't. But now I don't know if that was an accurate perception. I hate to give too much credence to rumors, but there certainly appears to be a string of players bailing on him.
To me, it now looks as if the winning streak was the aberration, and not the 5 game losing streak. We werent playing like a team for much of the year, and there were constant grumblings, rumors, and odd benchings (people supposedly al. We got hot against questionable competition for awhile, and then from Xavier to Providence to RM we were back to being flat and uninspired. And along with that came the transfers and refusals to go into the game etc. So again, to me, it looks as if February was an exception rather than some corner the team may have turned. But what do I know? Obviously I don't like Lavin much, but the truth is if the players are actually playing hard for him and he does have a transfer or two on the way in - then the program isn't in that bad of shape. I have my doubts about that though, but I admit its possible that things aren't as dark as some of us have made it seem.

 

[JackofVirginia]

Wojo rumors gaining speed

And why not? My pick all along. Coach K said he's staying another 5 years.

 

[Red.Fans]

I used to think the same thing. In fact I thought the best job Lavin did this year was getting the players to remain focused and committed even after the 5 game losing streak. Things could have really fell apart, but they didn't. But now I don't know if that was an accurate perception. I hate to give too much credence to rumors, but there certainly appears to be a string of players bailing on him.
To me, it now looks as if the winning streak was the aberration, and not the 5 game losing streak. We werent playing like a team for much of the year, and there were constant grumblings, rumors, and odd benchings (people supposedly al. We got hot against questionable competition for awhile, and then from Xavier to Providence to RM we were back to being flat and uninspired. And along with that came the transfers and refusals to go into the game etc. So again, to me, it looks as if February was an exception rather than some corner the team may have turned. But what do I know? Obviously I don't like Lavin much, but the truth is if the players are actually playing hard for him and he does have a transfer or two on the way in - then the program isn't in that bad of shape. I have my doubts about that though, but I admit its possible that things aren't as dark as some of us have made it seem.

If Antigua gets the USF job will you change your avatar?

 

[beast of the east]

Howland is a step backwards...Lav is our coach. Lets hope we can land some blue chippers for the future or nab a legit transfer or two. there is plenty still out there.

A step backwards from who? Lavin?? I have a hard time believing that. Howland has his faults, but he's levels above Lavin.

I know you are reasonable, and yes, Howland is a better strategist and maybe teacher also. Could you imagine Jordan staying here playing for a hardass? Or Harrison, who was treated strictly, but also compassionately by Lavin. I know Howland would bring his own kids in, but I think one thing Lavin has done extremely well is handle all the issues that came up over the past 2 seasons.

I used to think the same thing. In fact I thought the best job Lavin did this year was getting the players to remain focused and committed even after the 5 game losing streak. Things could have really fell apart, but they didn't. But now I don't know if that was an accurate perception. I hate to give too much credence to rumors, but there certainly appears to be a string of players bailing on him.
To me, it now looks as if the winning streak was the aberration, and not the 5 game losing streak. We werent playing like a team for much of the year, and there were constant grumblings, rumors, and odd benchings (people supposedly al. We got hot against questionable competition for awhile, and then from Xavier to Providence to RM we were back to being flat and uninspired. And along with that came the transfers and refusals to go into the game etc. So again, to me, it looks as if February was an exception rather than some corner the team may have turned. But what do I know? Obviously I don't like Lavin much, but the truth is if the players are actually playing hard for him and he does have a transfer or two on the way in - then the program isn't in that bad of shape. I have my doubts about that though, but I admit its possible that things aren't as dark as some of us have made it seem.

You are never as good as when you are playing really well, and never as bad as when you stink. The teams that are in the final 4 are generally peaking at the right time, but are of course better teams than SJU to begin with. We were a 10-8 conference team, which is what we deserved - after all was proven over 18 games. We didn't deserve any better, because we had multiple opportunities to salvage the season (Nova, Xavier, Providence), but failed. 10-8 isn't cause to revamp the whole project, and it appears with a key player bolting (Sampson), two big guys done w eligibility (Sanchez, GG), and the best shooter in college bball transferring (Hooper), LAvin has a lot of work to do. We were what we were - not good enough - but certainly not horrible.

 

[1and1sju]

If Antigua gets the USF job will you change your avatar?

I used to think the same thing. In fact I thought the best job Lavin did this year was getting the players to remain focused and committed even after the 5 game losing streak. Things could have really fell apart, but they didn't. But now I don't know if that was an accurate perception. I hate to give too much credence to rumors, but there certainly appears to be a string of players bailing on him.
To me, it now looks as if the winning streak was the aberration, and not the 5 game losing streak. We werent playing like a team for much of the year, and there were constant grumblings, rumors, and odd benchings (people supposedly al. We got hot against questionable competition for awhile, and then from Xavier to Providence to RM we were back to being flat and uninspired. And along with that came the transfers and refusals to go into the game etc. So again, to me, it looks as if February was an exception rather than some corner the team may have turned. But what do I know? Obviously I don't like Lavin much, but the truth is if the players are actually playing hard for him and he does have a transfer or two on the way in - then the program isn't in that bad of shape. I have my doubts about that though, but I admit its possible that things aren't as dark as some of us have made it seem.

Yea lol. I'll change it now Paul.
Truth is that's just my way of expressing my frustration with Lavin. And then we went on a winning streak so I kept it up for good luck.
Im not under any illusions that SJU would hire him at this time, even in the unlikely scenario where coach Lavin was let go.
A couple of years from now could be a different story though.

 

[redfazed]

Howland is a step backwards...Lav is our coach. Lets hope we can land some blue chippers for the future or nab a legit transfer or two. there is plenty still out there.

A step backwards from who? Lavin?? I have a hard time believing that. Howland has his faults, but he's levels above Lavin.

I know you are reasonable, and yes, Howland is a better strategist and maybe teacher also. Could you imagine Jordan staying here playing for a hardass? Or Harrison, who was treated strictly, but also compassionately by Lavin. I know Howland would bring his own kids in, but I think one thing Lavin has done extremely well is handle all the issues that came up over the past 2 seasons.

I used to think the same thing. In fact I thought the best job Lavin did this year was getting the players to remain focused and committed even after the 5 game losing streak. Things could have really fell apart, but they didn't. But now I don't know if that was an accurate perception. I hate to give too much credence to rumors, but there certainly appears to be a string of players bailing on him.
To me, it now looks as if the winning streak was the aberration, and not the 5 game losing streak. We werent playing like a team for much of the year, and there were constant grumblings, rumors, and odd benchings (people supposedly al. We got hot against questionable competition for awhile, and then from Xavier to Providence to RM we were back to being flat and uninspired. And along with that came the transfers and refusals to go into the game etc. So again, to me, it looks as if February was an exception rather than some corner the team may have turned. But what do I know? Obviously I don't like Lavin much, but the truth is if the players are actually playing hard for him and he does have a transfer or two on the way in - then the program isn't in that bad of shape. I have my doubts about that though, but I admit its possible that things aren't as dark as some of us have made it seem.

You are never as good as when you are playing really well, and never as bad as when you stink. The teams that are in the final 4 are generally peaking at the right time, but are of course better teams than SJU to begin with. We were a 10-8 conference team, which is what we deserved - after all was proven over 18 games. We didn't deserve any better, because we had multiple opportunities to salvage the season (Nova, Xavier, Providence), but failed. 10-8 isn't cause to revamp the whole project, and it appears with a key player bolting (Sampson), two big guys done w eligibility (Sanchez, GG), and the best shooter in college bball transferring (Hooper), LAvin has a lot of work to do. We were what we were - not good enough - but certainly not horrible.

Hooper is the "best shooter in college basketball??" Is that sarcasm?

 

[SJU85]

Sorry, I got on early yesterday but haven't gotten back on since. Can someone please recap the following for me:

1. Has the Obekpa transferring/leaving rumor been confirmed (tried going back a few pages but still not sure)?
2. Wojo to UCLA or somewhere else?
3. Jakar declared and Hooper is exploring transfer options. Anyone else?

Thanks in advance.

 

[beast of the east]

Howland is a step backwards...Lav is our coach. Lets hope we can land some blue chippers for the future or nab a legit transfer or two. there is plenty still out there.

A step backwards from who? Lavin?? I have a hard time believing that. Howland has his faults, but he's levels above Lavin.

I know you are reasonable, and yes, Howland is a better strategist and maybe teacher also. Could you imagine Jordan staying here playing for a hardass? Or Harrison, who was treated strictly, but also compassionately by Lavin. I know Howland would bring his own kids in, but I think one thing Lavin has done extremely well is handle all the issues that came up over the past 2 seasons.

I used to think the same thing. In fact I thought the best job Lavin did this year was getting the players to remain focused and committed even after the 5 game losing streak. Things could have really fell apart, but they didn't. But now I don't know if that was an accurate perception. I hate to give too much credence to rumors, but there certainly appears to be a string of players bailing on him.
To me, it now looks as if the winning streak was the aberration, and not the 5 game losing streak. We werent playing like a team for much of the year, and there were constant grumblings, rumors, and odd benchings (people supposedly al. We got hot against questionable competition for awhile, and then from Xavier to Providence to RM we were back to being flat and uninspired. And along with that came the transfers and refusals to go into the game etc. So again, to me, it looks as if February was an exception rather than some corner the team may have turned. But what do I know? Obviously I don't like Lavin much, but the truth is if the players are actually playing hard for him and he does have a transfer or two on the way in - then the program isn't in that bad of shape. I have my doubts about that though, but I admit its possible that things aren't as dark as some of us have made it seem.

You are never as good as when you are playing really well, and never as bad as when you stink. The teams that are in the final 4 are generally peaking at the right time, but are of course better teams than SJU to begin with. We were a 10-8 conference team, which is what we deserved - after all was proven over 18 games. We didn't deserve any better, because we had multiple opportunities to salvage the season (Nova, Xavier, Providence), but failed. 10-8 isn't cause to revamp the whole project, and it appears with a key player bolting (Sampson), two big guys done w eligibility (Sanchez, GG), and the best shooter in college bball transferring (Hooper), LAvin has a lot of work to do. We were what we were - not good enough - but certainly not horrible.

Hooper is the "best shooter in college basketball??" Is that sarcasm?

and ______ (fill in the blanks) from Redmen.com is the best poster on any college bb website

 

[Red.Fans]

its all about chemistry, this current team has NONE. Maybe losing Jakaar will somehow help. We can only hope

I agree with you that chemistry is a major factor. Fact is, JS showed up for about 20% of the season and even admitted that he was focused early on, on impressing scouts rather than playing team ball (false dichotomy for stupid people). And you can maybe give the coaching staff a pass on some things like selfish play and lack of hustle but Lavin recruited these guys. He also chose his assistants. And if the coaching staff is lazy and undisciplined and don't get along with players, that is going to reflect with the players and their attitudes. Lavin also had PGIV running the offense even when it was abundantly clear that there were better options. Nothing builds chemistry more than good passing. Even kids that don't like each other personally can play well together on a team that spaces and moves the ball well.

 

[paultzman]

its all about chemistry, this current team has NONE. Maybe losing Jakaar will somehow help. We can only hope

I agree with you that chemistry is a major factor. Fact is, JS showed up for about 20% of the season and even admitted that he was focused early on, on impressing scouts rather than playing team ball (false dichotomy for stupid people). And you can maybe give the coaching staff a pass on some things like selfish play and lack of hustle but Lavin recruited these guys. He also chose his assistants. And if the coaching staff is lazy and undisciplined and don't get along with players, that is going to reflect with the players and their attitudes. Lavin also had PGIV running the offense even when it was abundantly clear that there were better options. Nothing builds chemistry more than good passing. Even kids that don't like each other personally can play well together on a team that spaces and moves the ball well.

Excellent points.

 

[thakid]

Nothing builds chemistry more than good passing. Even kids that don't like each other personally can play well together on a team that spaces and moves the ball well.

Great points, #1 example showing this is probably Rajon Rondo and Ray Allen who we found out apparently hated each other. Did not seem to affect their play, however.

 

[Jack Williams]

Sorry, I got on early yesterday but haven't gotten back on since. Can someone please recap the following for me:

1. Has the Obekpa transferring/leaving rumor been confirmed (tried going back a few pages but still not sure)?
2. Wojo to UCLA or somewhere else?
3. Jakar declared and Hooper is exploring transfer options. Anyone else?

Thanks in advance.

1. Obekpa transferring is just pure speculation, although some people on twitter claim that he is leaning towards transferring. Nothing final and nothing confirmed.

2. Wojo has emerged as a candidate for the Marquette job, I believe I heard he is meeting with Marquette some time this week

3. Jakarr has declared, he's gone. Hooper will transfer, and he is gone.

 

[ras]

The reason I cant see CO transferring is because IMO he wants to be in the pros ASAP. Cant see him loosing a year by sitting out.

 

[usguard]

The reason I cant see CO transferring is because IMO he wants to be in the pros ASAP. Cant see him loosing a year by sitting out.

Before he moves to the next level he needs an offensive game Right now he is only A SHOT blocker He can not guard quick PFs Everyone at the next level block shots
Presently he is too much of a liability Needs 2 yrs to develop his game

 

[SJU85]

Sorry, I got on early yesterday but haven't gotten back on since. Can someone please recap the following for me:

1. Has the Obekpa transferring/leaving rumor been confirmed (tried going back a few pages but still not sure)?
2. Wojo to UCLA or somewhere else?
3. Jakar declared and Hooper is exploring transfer options. Anyone else?

Thanks in advance.

1. Obekpa transferring is just pure speculation, although some people on twitter claim that he is leaning towards transferring. Nothing final and nothing confirmed.

2. Wojo has emerged as a candidate for the Marquette job, I believe I heard he is meeting with Marquette some time this week

3. Jakarr has declared, he's gone. Hooper will transfer, and he is gone.

Thanks, Like a Soap Opera.

 

[ras]

The reason I cant see CO transferring is because IMO he wants to be in the pros ASAP. Cant see him loosing a year by sitting out.

Before he moves to the next level he needs an offensive game Right now he is only A SHOT blocker He can not guard quick PFs Everyone at the next level block shots
Presently he is too much of a liability Needs 2 yrs to develop his game

Im not saying your wrong, Im saying if he sits out a year it will take him that much longer to develop his game.

 

[usguard]

The reason I cant see CO transferring is because IMO he wants to be in the pros ASAP. Cant see him loosing a year by sitting out.

Before he moves to the next level he needs an offensive game Right now he is only A SHOT blocker He can not guard quick PFs Everyone at the next level block shots
Presently he is too much of a liability Needs 2 yrs to develop his game

Im not saying your wrong, Im saying if he sits out a year it will take him that much longer to develop his game.

That is a true statement, however , sitting out would only hurt him

 

[usguard]

The reason I cant see CO transferring is because IMO he wants to be in the pros ASAP. Cant see him loosing a year by sitting out.

Before he moves to the next level he needs an offensive game Right now he is only A SHOT blocker He can not guard quick PFs Everyone at the next level block shots
Presently he is too much of a liability Needs 2 yrs to develop his game

Im not saying your wrong, Im saying if he sits out a year it will take him that much longer to develop his game.