They have done a great job in the transfer/JUCO game, but the HS recruiting leaves a lot to be desired. They have struck out on all the big recruits and settle for diamonds in the rough (that are rough). The 4 star recruits haven't panned out and it makes me question their eye for raw talent. They seem to want upside over steadiness but that is a great way to strike out a lot
Recruiting to Date
- Thread starter redmannorth
- Start date
[quote="NCJohnnie" post=306369]Fordham96 wrote: Just answer one question and if your answer is yes then I will accept that. Honest question.
Are you confident the current recruiting strategy will get the type of kids that can consistently lift this program to the type of level we all thought it could be when Mullin was hired? Meaning consistent NCAA team and consistently at the level of the top BE teams including Villanova? If your honest answer is YES then fine. But if it is not then you can at least understand the skepticism some of us have. That is all.
Fordham96, to answer your question to MG, I am cautiously optimistic that after this year, staff will have gotten the program to a point where it can consistently be a top half of BE team vying for an NCAA berth which almost everyone on this board would consider success. If we have an excellent year this year, retain our current players other than Ponds & Heron (especially Simon) and bring at least one key HS recruit, I think program will have gotten a reputation and rhythm where it can be successful going forward. I am not ready to say that transfer U is going to be our only recruiting strategy as opposed to a key part of it, and hope it isn't. But as many have said since the end of last year, this year is key. If we are sitting here next year with only the recruits we have now and a couple of lower level three stars, I will have plenty of doubts. I do believe in giving staff and players the benefit of the doubt until they prove me wrong. It is not a Mullin thing, it is the way I root for all my favorite teams and I did the same when Lavin was here.[/quote]
I totally agree NCJohnnie. Last year it looked like we were on our way until Marcus Lovett got hurt. I believe that if we win this year year, we will put ourselves in a position to get commitments from the better high school players. Once the staff shows that they can coach talented players, more will come. Jack Williams mentioned UCONN. Players are not committing to UCONN, they are committing to Danny Hurley because he has shown that he can win.
As far as next year is concerned, so far we have Mack and Steere committed, with Caraher and Wright sitting out this season. If we win this year, there is a good chance that we get Precious.
Learned a long time ago, "yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, live for today". Since we are 7-0 this morning, I am going to enjoy today.
Are you confident the current recruiting strategy will get the type of kids that can consistently lift this program to the type of level we all thought it could be when Mullin was hired? Meaning consistent NCAA team and consistently at the level of the top BE teams including Villanova? If your honest answer is YES then fine. But if it is not then you can at least understand the skepticism some of us have. That is all.
Fordham96, to answer your question to MG, I am cautiously optimistic that after this year, staff will have gotten the program to a point where it can consistently be a top half of BE team vying for an NCAA berth which almost everyone on this board would consider success. If we have an excellent year this year, retain our current players other than Ponds & Heron (especially Simon) and bring at least one key HS recruit, I think program will have gotten a reputation and rhythm where it can be successful going forward. I am not ready to say that transfer U is going to be our only recruiting strategy as opposed to a key part of it, and hope it isn't. But as many have said since the end of last year, this year is key. If we are sitting here next year with only the recruits we have now and a couple of lower level three stars, I will have plenty of doubts. I do believe in giving staff and players the benefit of the doubt until they prove me wrong. It is not a Mullin thing, it is the way I root for all my favorite teams and I did the same when Lavin was here.[/quote]
I totally agree NCJohnnie. Last year it looked like we were on our way until Marcus Lovett got hurt. I believe that if we win this year year, we will put ourselves in a position to get commitments from the better high school players. Once the staff shows that they can coach talented players, more will come. Jack Williams mentioned UCONN. Players are not committing to UCONN, they are committing to Danny Hurley because he has shown that he can win.
As far as next year is concerned, so far we have Mack and Steere committed, with Caraher and Wright sitting out this season. If we win this year, there is a good chance that we get Precious.
Learned a long time ago, "yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, live for today". Since we are 7-0 this morning, I am going to enjoy today.
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[quote="panther2" post=306373][quote="NCJohnnie" post=306369]Fordham96 wrote: Just answer one question and if your answer is yes then I will accept that. Honest question.
Are you confident the current recruiting strategy will get the type of kids that can consistently lift this program to the type of level we all thought it could be when Mullin was hired? Meaning consistent NCAA team and consistently at the level of the top BE teams including Villanova? If your honest answer is YES then fine. But if it is not then you can at least understand the skepticism some of us have. That is all.
Fordham96, to answer your question to MG, I am cautiously optimistic that after this year, staff will have gotten the program to a point where it can consistently be a top half of BE team vying for an NCAA berth which almost everyone on this board would consider success. If we have an excellent year this year, retain our current players other than Ponds & Heron (especially Simon) and bring at least one key HS recruit, I think program will have gotten a reputation and rhythm where it can be successful going forward. I am not ready to say that transfer U is going to be our only recruiting strategy as opposed to a key part of it, and hope it isn't. But as many have said since the end of last year, this year is key. If we are sitting here next year with only the recruits we have now and a couple of lower level three stars, I will have plenty of doubts. I do believe in giving staff and players the benefit of the doubt until they prove me wrong. It is not a Mullin thing, it is the way I root for all my favorite teams and I did the same when Lavin was here.[/quote]
I totally agree NCJohnnie. Last year it looked like we were on our way until Marcus Lovett got hurt. I believe that if we win this year year, we will put ourselves in a position to get commitments from the better high school players. Once the staff shows that they can coach talented players, more will come. Jack Williams mentioned UCONN. Players are not committing to UCONN, they are committing to Danny Hurley because he has shown that he can win.
As far as next year is concerned, so far we have Mack and Steere committed, with Caraher and Wright sitting out this season. If we win this year, there is a good chance that we get Precious.
Learned a long time ago, "yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, live for today". Since we are 7-0 this morning, I am going to enjoy today.[/quote]
As I mellow, much later than suggested, I find this approach re Johnnies more appealing every day. Not heresy or disloyalty to criticize recent HS recruiting, but reasonable to hope that a positive season could be “Precious” in turning that around. Still suggest a second able recruiter will help on several levels. Enjoy the season.
Are you confident the current recruiting strategy will get the type of kids that can consistently lift this program to the type of level we all thought it could be when Mullin was hired? Meaning consistent NCAA team and consistently at the level of the top BE teams including Villanova? If your honest answer is YES then fine. But if it is not then you can at least understand the skepticism some of us have. That is all.
Fordham96, to answer your question to MG, I am cautiously optimistic that after this year, staff will have gotten the program to a point where it can consistently be a top half of BE team vying for an NCAA berth which almost everyone on this board would consider success. If we have an excellent year this year, retain our current players other than Ponds & Heron (especially Simon) and bring at least one key HS recruit, I think program will have gotten a reputation and rhythm where it can be successful going forward. I am not ready to say that transfer U is going to be our only recruiting strategy as opposed to a key part of it, and hope it isn't. But as many have said since the end of last year, this year is key. If we are sitting here next year with only the recruits we have now and a couple of lower level three stars, I will have plenty of doubts. I do believe in giving staff and players the benefit of the doubt until they prove me wrong. It is not a Mullin thing, it is the way I root for all my favorite teams and I did the same when Lavin was here.[/quote]
I totally agree NCJohnnie. Last year it looked like we were on our way until Marcus Lovett got hurt. I believe that if we win this year year, we will put ourselves in a position to get commitments from the better high school players. Once the staff shows that they can coach talented players, more will come. Jack Williams mentioned UCONN. Players are not committing to UCONN, they are committing to Danny Hurley because he has shown that he can win.
As far as next year is concerned, so far we have Mack and Steere committed, with Caraher and Wright sitting out this season. If we win this year, there is a good chance that we get Precious.
Learned a long time ago, "yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, live for today". Since we are 7-0 this morning, I am going to enjoy today.[/quote]
As I mellow, much later than suggested, I find this approach re Johnnies more appealing every day. Not heresy or disloyalty to criticize recent HS recruiting, but reasonable to hope that a positive season could be “Precious” in turning that around. Still suggest a second able recruiter will help on several levels. Enjoy the season.
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JohnnyFever
Active member
[quote="OhioFan" post=306320]Thanks North. But why let the facts get in the way of bitching and complaining?[/quote]
I'm happy to get Cam recently and LJ was a fantastic addition. Also a great transfer get from Steere. Matt A has been the 1 staff member that has really produced and it seems like Greg is totally committed and hungry as well. I'll credit Mullin for adding toughness to the team. But with all that being said, I think it's silly to be so dismissive of legitimate fan concerns and write them off as "bitching". Bitching implies it's totally unwarranted or menial. Despite the transfer and JUCO success, we have had close to zero success with 4 star HS recruits and to dismiss that is pretty astounding IMO. No I'm not saying the sky is falling, but any objective person would note this in the Mullin era. As I've said, Lavin's worst recruiting year is comparable to Mullin's best in terms of HS recruits. And I say that as someone who wanted Lavin gone. Personally, I don't think missing on every 4 star HS recruit is sustainable but so far Matt A has been able to get by getting impact transfers just as the clock strikes midnight. I hope we get some impact HS recruits to blend with our JUCOs and transfers. I could be wrong of course these are my opinions as to whether or not it will work. But it is plain fact that we have struck out completely getting 4 star HS recruits...3 years and counting since Ponds. I hope this current model continues to succeed without them.
I'm happy to get Cam recently and LJ was a fantastic addition. Also a great transfer get from Steere. Matt A has been the 1 staff member that has really produced and it seems like Greg is totally committed and hungry as well. I'll credit Mullin for adding toughness to the team. But with all that being said, I think it's silly to be so dismissive of legitimate fan concerns and write them off as "bitching". Bitching implies it's totally unwarranted or menial. Despite the transfer and JUCO success, we have had close to zero success with 4 star HS recruits and to dismiss that is pretty astounding IMO. No I'm not saying the sky is falling, but any objective person would note this in the Mullin era. As I've said, Lavin's worst recruiting year is comparable to Mullin's best in terms of HS recruits. And I say that as someone who wanted Lavin gone. Personally, I don't think missing on every 4 star HS recruit is sustainable but so far Matt A has been able to get by getting impact transfers just as the clock strikes midnight. I hope we get some impact HS recruits to blend with our JUCOs and transfers. I could be wrong of course these are my opinions as to whether or not it will work. But it is plain fact that we have struck out completely getting 4 star HS recruits...3 years and counting since Ponds. I hope this current model continues to succeed without them.
Many good points on all sides. There's not one valid perspective.
I think most would agree that (i) overall, the talent level is much, much better than it was a few years ago; (ii) Matt has been terrific doing yeoman's work and a second bona fide recruiter would be a big boost; (iii) high school recruiting must stabilize to re-establish a normal recruiting pattern, supplemented by transfers; and recruiting and retention of big men must improve.
I agree that a good season could help us land one or more good HS players (hopefully PA included), so let's all hope that in the BE season we don't under-perform, we make the tourney and show HS kids that Queens is a viable and attractive destination.
All told, I am pleased at the slow and steady progress. More needs to be done, but we're getting there.
I think most would agree that (i) overall, the talent level is much, much better than it was a few years ago; (ii) Matt has been terrific doing yeoman's work and a second bona fide recruiter would be a big boost; (iii) high school recruiting must stabilize to re-establish a normal recruiting pattern, supplemented by transfers; and recruiting and retention of big men must improve.
I agree that a good season could help us land one or more good HS players (hopefully PA included), so let's all hope that in the BE season we don't under-perform, we make the tourney and show HS kids that Queens is a viable and attractive destination.
All told, I am pleased at the slow and steady progress. More needs to be done, but we're getting there.
ManhattAn1
Active member
Do not be surprised if all 3 freshmen transfer after this year..
Dan V
Well-known member
At this point the "Transfer U" title should be embraced. At least it gives us a niche or identity that separates us from the pack. Otherwise we are the commuter school that used to be good back in the day and now has the worst facilities in the conference. A new arena is apparently impossible to even think about so that will always be a thing. As long as Matt is recruiting 95% of our players this is the formula. This is how he operates and its not a bad strategy all things considered. We need to get creative with recruiting because SJU will never consistently land 5 star guys. If we can get this thing clicking like Nevada or Hoibergs Iowa St than we would be set. Not going to get much better than that with the current makeup of this staff. Im not expecting us to land Precious, but even so im happy with Mack and Steere so far. Mack looks like a legit big PG and Steere is a legit big size wise. Hopefully they get Steere eligible at the beginning instead of december 2019. Just have to wait and see with this staff when it comes to recruiting, thats one thing ive learned since Mullin and Matt have been here.
[quote="redmanwest" post=306377]Many good points on all sides. There's not one valid perspective.
I think most would agree that (i) overall, the talent level is much, much better than it was a few years ago; (ii) Matt has been terrific doing yeoman's work and a second bona fide recruiter would be a big boost; (iii) high school recruiting must stabilize to re-establish a normal recruiting pattern, supplemented by transfers; and recruiting and retention of big men must improve.
I agree that a good season could help us land one or more good HS players (hopefully PA included), so let's all hope that in the BE season we don't under-perform, we make the tourney and show HS kids that Queens is a viable and attractive destination.
All told, I am pleased at the slow and steady progress. More needs to be done, but we're getting there.[/quote]
Very nice post RMW
A little balance in perspective helps
I think most would agree that (i) overall, the talent level is much, much better than it was a few years ago; (ii) Matt has been terrific doing yeoman's work and a second bona fide recruiter would be a big boost; (iii) high school recruiting must stabilize to re-establish a normal recruiting pattern, supplemented by transfers; and recruiting and retention of big men must improve.
I agree that a good season could help us land one or more good HS players (hopefully PA included), so let's all hope that in the BE season we don't under-perform, we make the tourney and show HS kids that Queens is a viable and attractive destination.
All told, I am pleased at the slow and steady progress. More needs to be done, but we're getting there.[/quote]
Very nice post RMW
A little balance in perspective helps
MarkRedman
Well-known member
I am very conflicted regarding this topic. I love our roster (although one more "big" would have been helpful) but I don't like the fact that Matt does too much of the heavy lifting in this department. He needs (and deserves to have) more help in this regard.
As far as transfers are concerned, I love most of the guys that have come to St John's under the CM regime but still believe that we have to have greater balance and recruit more quality high school players. Certainly, if we make the NCAA's this year (as we should), the hope is that we get Precious and open the pipeline to more of the "better" high school talent in the years to come.
There is a very interesting article in Sports Illustrated this week about college basketball transfers. The number of "up transfers" (transferring from a mid major to a major program) has risen from 9 players in 2010-11 to 84 this year. The number of "up grad transfers" (graduating from a mid major and moving to a major program) has risen from 5 players in 2010-11 to 33 this season. The total number of graduate transfers has risen from 25 in 2012-13 to 124 this year.
So, clearly, our recruiting has followed this national trend and has served us well thus far. I only hope that the success that we have this season on the court will enable us to become stronger players in the high school recruiting market in the future so that transfers become supplements rather than our primary targets.
In the meantime, let's enjoy this season. I want to have a rooting interest during March Madness for a change this year.
GO JOHNNIES!!!
As far as transfers are concerned, I love most of the guys that have come to St John's under the CM regime but still believe that we have to have greater balance and recruit more quality high school players. Certainly, if we make the NCAA's this year (as we should), the hope is that we get Precious and open the pipeline to more of the "better" high school talent in the years to come.
There is a very interesting article in Sports Illustrated this week about college basketball transfers. The number of "up transfers" (transferring from a mid major to a major program) has risen from 9 players in 2010-11 to 84 this year. The number of "up grad transfers" (graduating from a mid major and moving to a major program) has risen from 5 players in 2010-11 to 33 this season. The total number of graduate transfers has risen from 25 in 2012-13 to 124 this year.
So, clearly, our recruiting has followed this national trend and has served us well thus far. I only hope that the success that we have this season on the court will enable us to become stronger players in the high school recruiting market in the future so that transfers become supplements rather than our primary targets.
In the meantime, let's enjoy this season. I want to have a rooting interest during March Madness for a change this year.
GO JOHNNIES!!!
If all three freshmen transfer at end of year as Manhattan1 suggests, which I don't believe will happen, would be for the benefit of both players and SJU if they don't have the talent to play in the big east.
[quote="gman" post=306370]They have done a great job in the transfer/JUCO game, but the HS recruiting leaves a lot to be desired. They have struck out on all the big recruits and settle for diamonds in the rough (that are rough). The 4 star recruits haven't panned out and it makes me question their eye for raw talent. They seem to want upside over steadiness but that is a great way to strike out a lot[/quote]
Correct but the larger point is the idea of calling all of this a "success." Or labeling it as such regardless of what you personally think of the talent.
They haven't actually done anything substantial on the court yet in 3+ years. You want to make excuses for injuries, inheriting a tough situation that 's fine. All well and good. But a bad record is a bad record whether you have injuries or not. And before I label a recruiting strategy a success I like to see actual success on the court and then CONSISTENT success on the floor after that.
As someone put it the "pom pom" waving is a bit much for a guy who has finished last twice and 7th once and who has had to play on the Wednesday night of the BE Tourney (in other words the play-in bracket) all 3 years.
The recruiting strategy is so great that we have essentially five scholarship players on the roster who contribute little to nothing in the way of production in what is supposed to be SJU's "deepest team in year's."
That doesn't mean this year can't erase some of that bad stuff and it doesn't mean the recruiting won't pick up. But sorry call me old fashion but I don't see where other than listing recruit/transfer names where all the back slapping should be justified over the recruiting.
Correct but the larger point is the idea of calling all of this a "success." Or labeling it as such regardless of what you personally think of the talent.
They haven't actually done anything substantial on the court yet in 3+ years. You want to make excuses for injuries, inheriting a tough situation that 's fine. All well and good. But a bad record is a bad record whether you have injuries or not. And before I label a recruiting strategy a success I like to see actual success on the court and then CONSISTENT success on the floor after that.
As someone put it the "pom pom" waving is a bit much for a guy who has finished last twice and 7th once and who has had to play on the Wednesday night of the BE Tourney (in other words the play-in bracket) all 3 years.
The recruiting strategy is so great that we have essentially five scholarship players on the roster who contribute little to nothing in the way of production in what is supposed to be SJU's "deepest team in year's."
That doesn't mean this year can't erase some of that bad stuff and it doesn't mean the recruiting won't pick up. But sorry call me old fashion but I don't see where other than listing recruit/transfer names where all the back slapping should be justified over the recruiting.
MarkRedman
Well-known member
[quote="fordham96" post=306383][quote="gman" post=306370]They have done a great job in the transfer/JUCO game, but the HS recruiting leaves a lot to be desired. They have struck out on all the big recruits and settle for diamonds in the rough (that are rough). The 4 star recruits haven't panned out and it makes me question their eye for raw talent. They seem to want upside over steadiness but that is a great way to strike out a lot[/quote]
Correct but the larger point is the idea of calling all of this a "success." Or labeling it as such regardless of what you personally think of the talent.
They haven't actually done anything substantial on the court yet in 3+ years. You want to make excuses for injuries, inheriting a tough situation that 's fine. All well and good. But a bad record is a bad record whether you have injuries or not. And before I label a recruiting strategy a success I like to see actual success on the court and then CONSISTENT success on the floor after that.
As someone put it the "pom pom" waving is a bit much for a guy who has finished last twice and 7th once and who has had to play on the Wednesday night of the BE Tourney (in other words the play-in bracket) all 3 years.
The recruiting strategy is so great that we have essentially five scholarship players on the roster who contribute little to nothing in the way of production in what is supposed to be SJU's "deepest team in year's."
That doesn't mean this year can't erase some of that bad stuff and it doesn't mean the recruiting won't pick up. But sorry call me old fashion but I don't see where other than listing recruit/transfer names where all the back slapping should be justified over the recruiting.[/quote]
I can't argue with most of what you have stated. It is a fact that CM inherited a very tough situation. I also believe that we would have made the NCAA tournament last season had LoVett not been injured and left the program. Had that been the case, we would likely have had a better shot at getting one (some) of the top flight high school recruits that we whiffed on this fall.
As I stated before, I do agree that our system of recruiting is flawed and hope that a successful campaign will enable us to compete more successfully in the high school market in the future.
Correct but the larger point is the idea of calling all of this a "success." Or labeling it as such regardless of what you personally think of the talent.
They haven't actually done anything substantial on the court yet in 3+ years. You want to make excuses for injuries, inheriting a tough situation that 's fine. All well and good. But a bad record is a bad record whether you have injuries or not. And before I label a recruiting strategy a success I like to see actual success on the court and then CONSISTENT success on the floor after that.
As someone put it the "pom pom" waving is a bit much for a guy who has finished last twice and 7th once and who has had to play on the Wednesday night of the BE Tourney (in other words the play-in bracket) all 3 years.
The recruiting strategy is so great that we have essentially five scholarship players on the roster who contribute little to nothing in the way of production in what is supposed to be SJU's "deepest team in year's."
That doesn't mean this year can't erase some of that bad stuff and it doesn't mean the recruiting won't pick up. But sorry call me old fashion but I don't see where other than listing recruit/transfer names where all the back slapping should be justified over the recruiting.[/quote]
I can't argue with most of what you have stated. It is a fact that CM inherited a very tough situation. I also believe that we would have made the NCAA tournament last season had LoVett not been injured and left the program. Had that been the case, we would likely have had a better shot at getting one (some) of the top flight high school recruits that we whiffed on this fall.
As I stated before, I do agree that our system of recruiting is flawed and hope that a successful campaign will enable us to compete more successfully in the high school market in the future.
Dan V
Well-known member
[quote="Enright" post=306382]If all three freshmen transfer at end of year as Manhattan1 suggests, which I don't believe will happen, would be for the benefit of both players and SJU if they don't have the talent to play in the big east.[/quote]
I don't think Williams will transfer, it might not mean much but he looks engaged on the bench during games. Can't say the same about Roberts and Earlington, but that might just be their personalities. Anyway not worrying about this at 7-0 with so many games left this season. Trimble might be one to watch though, Clark is his boy and is graduating and his role probably won't increase from here on out. Figueroa, Simon, Dixon, Wright, Williams, and Mack will likely be ahead of him next year.
I don't think Williams will transfer, it might not mean much but he looks engaged on the bench during games. Can't say the same about Roberts and Earlington, but that might just be their personalities. Anyway not worrying about this at 7-0 with so many games left this season. Trimble might be one to watch though, Clark is his boy and is graduating and his role probably won't increase from here on out. Figueroa, Simon, Dixon, Wright, Williams, and Mack will likely be ahead of him next year.
Dan V
Well-known member
[quote="MarkRedman" post=306384][quote="fordham96" post=306383][quote="gman" post=306370]They have done a great job in the transfer/JUCO game, but the HS recruiting leaves a lot to be desired. They have struck out on all the big recruits and settle for diamonds in the rough (that are rough). The 4 star recruits haven't panned out and it makes me question their eye for raw talent. They seem to want upside over steadiness but that is a great way to strike out a lot[/quote]
Correct but the larger point is the idea of calling all of this a "success." Or labeling it as such regardless of what you personally think of the talent.
They haven't actually done anything substantial on the court yet in 3+ years. You want to make excuses for injuries, inheriting a tough situation that 's fine. All well and good. But a bad record is a bad record whether you have injuries or not. And before I label a recruiting strategy a success I like to see actual success on the court and then CONSISTENT success on the floor after that.
As someone put it the "pom pom" waving is a bit much for a guy who has finished last twice and 7th once and who has had to play on the Wednesday night of the BE Tourney (in other words the play-in bracket) all 3 years.
The recruiting strategy is so great that we have essentially five scholarship players on the roster who contribute little to nothing in the way of production in what is supposed to be SJU's "deepest team in year's."
That doesn't mean this year can't erase some of that bad stuff and it doesn't mean the recruiting won't pick up. But sorry call me old fashion but I don't see where other than listing recruit/transfer names where all the back slapping should be justified over the recruiting.[/quote]
I can't argue with most of what you have stated. It is a fact that CM inherited a very tough situation. I also believe that we would have made the NCAA tournament last season had LoVett not been injured and left the program. Had that been the case, we would likely have had a better shot at getting one (some) of the top flight high school recruits that we whiffed on this fall.
As I stated before, I do agree that our system of recruiting is flawed and hope that a successful campaign will enable us to compete more successfully in the high school market in the future.[/quote]
Fordham, Mark you both make good points I agree with both views.
Correct but the larger point is the idea of calling all of this a "success." Or labeling it as such regardless of what you personally think of the talent.
They haven't actually done anything substantial on the court yet in 3+ years. You want to make excuses for injuries, inheriting a tough situation that 's fine. All well and good. But a bad record is a bad record whether you have injuries or not. And before I label a recruiting strategy a success I like to see actual success on the court and then CONSISTENT success on the floor after that.
As someone put it the "pom pom" waving is a bit much for a guy who has finished last twice and 7th once and who has had to play on the Wednesday night of the BE Tourney (in other words the play-in bracket) all 3 years.
The recruiting strategy is so great that we have essentially five scholarship players on the roster who contribute little to nothing in the way of production in what is supposed to be SJU's "deepest team in year's."
That doesn't mean this year can't erase some of that bad stuff and it doesn't mean the recruiting won't pick up. But sorry call me old fashion but I don't see where other than listing recruit/transfer names where all the back slapping should be justified over the recruiting.[/quote]
I can't argue with most of what you have stated. It is a fact that CM inherited a very tough situation. I also believe that we would have made the NCAA tournament last season had LoVett not been injured and left the program. Had that been the case, we would likely have had a better shot at getting one (some) of the top flight high school recruits that we whiffed on this fall.
As I stated before, I do agree that our system of recruiting is flawed and hope that a successful campaign will enable us to compete more successfully in the high school market in the future.[/quote]
Fordham, Mark you both make good points I agree with both views.
I think sometimes fans lose site of the fact that our administration hired a coach who had no previous coaching experience, and especially no experience in any of the rigours of recruting and running a college program. On top of that, Mullin has seemed satisfied to run this program as a manager of sorts, delegating certain duties down to those who do the best. St Jean does X and Os, Matt takes the recruiting lead, etc.
It's possible that because Mullin was so far behind the learning curve from day one, the expectations here from the start we're too high? After all, he's competing in the Big Easy where many of the coaches have already established foundations of success.
Disclaimer: this is not to let anyone off the hook. I'm looking at this from a high level perspective based on decisions the administration made with their coaching hire. This post is not to say Mullin should be forgiven for losing, I personally feel the hire was Ill advised from the beginning.
It's possible that because Mullin was so far behind the learning curve from day one, the expectations here from the start we're too high? After all, he's competing in the Big Easy where many of the coaches have already established foundations of success.
Disclaimer: this is not to let anyone off the hook. I'm looking at this from a high level perspective based on decisions the administration made with their coaching hire. This post is not to say Mullin should be forgiven for losing, I personally feel the hire was Ill advised from the beginning.
L J S A
Well-known member
[quote="Dan V" post=306385][quote="Enright" post=306382]If all three freshmen transfer at end of year as Manhattan1 suggests, which I don't believe will happen, would be for the benefit of both players and SJU if they don't have the talent to play in the big east.[/quote]
I don't think Williams will transfer, it might not mean much but he looks engaged on the bench during games. Can't say the same about Roberts and Earlington, but that might just be their personalities. Anyway not worrying about this at 7-0 with so many games left this season. Trimble might be one to watch though, Clark is his boy and is graduating and his role probably won't increase from here on out. Figueroa, Simon, Dixon, Wright, Williams, and Mack will likely be ahead of him next year.[/quote]
I was thinking same thing about Trimble just yesterday. I think Earlington is gone as well, and if it happened in two weeks it wouldn't shock me. Roberts and Williams should stick it out.
I don't think Williams will transfer, it might not mean much but he looks engaged on the bench during games. Can't say the same about Roberts and Earlington, but that might just be their personalities. Anyway not worrying about this at 7-0 with so many games left this season. Trimble might be one to watch though, Clark is his boy and is graduating and his role probably won't increase from here on out. Figueroa, Simon, Dixon, Wright, Williams, and Mack will likely be ahead of him next year.[/quote]
I was thinking same thing about Trimble just yesterday. I think Earlington is gone as well, and if it happened in two weeks it wouldn't shock me. Roberts and Williams should stick it out.
[quote="fordham96" post=306341][quote="Class of 72" post=306337][quote="Marillac" post=306322]I am extremely happy with the recruiting. Our recruiting has gotten better each season...so much so that earlier recruits have left to find more playing time.
I love the transfer u designation. Even losing Ponds and Clark after the season, next year will mark the first of hopefully many seasons we have continuity. That's how good programs keep it rolling.[/quote]
Not sure where this pom pom moment is coming from but gushing over getting two 4 star players via the transfer route who have had spotty longevity records at prior schools does not spell continuity but rather our modus operandi when we fail to land or maintain our own 4 star recuits.
Good for you if you are extremely happy with our recruiting but the transfer U designation has a double edged sword attached to that reputation. It may put doubts in the minds of high school recruits who see the staff favoring transfer players rather than giving talented 4 star players key roles from day one. Mullin's recent comments seem to back that philosophy. Were you extremely happy with this past season's recruiting of prep players? One is a 4 star and the other two are 3 star. Other than garbage time, has any shown you anything to give you good vibes for the approaching Big East games? Do you see a Kris Monroe, Jimmy Nichols, A.J. Reeves or David Duke among our freshmen? Those are the Providence freshmen that played key roles in defeating B.C. tonight.
We fortunately have a talented FIVE in year FOUR but with a huge flaw on the front line. That's not continuity. When 5TH year Marvin Clark shows he has developed a turn around jumper around the key or does more than put up 3 point shots we may have a chance with the more talented teams coming up.
Not having signed one of our original top 100 targets makes you happy with our recruiting?
North points to a disturbing fact and that is that this is Matt's team and not Mullin's. None of the three amigos from California have credit for a top recruit to this date.
I think we will loose 4 to 5 players by April. Just bringing in 4 star transfers doesn't guarantee anything at St. John's as North indirectly points out since many have left the program and our record has been in the. 500 range with all the great recruiting you celebrate.
Just presenting the minority point of view here.[/quote]
Minority point of view? Not sure it is.
BTW-I remember being told repeatedly after the Williams, Roberts and Earlington signings that this was evidence the staff was recruiting well because these were solid back up plans to missing on Muhammad, Naz Reid, Moses Brown etc...How is that working out?
One last thing, y'all do realize that this "strategy" has yielded a 3 year record of 38-60/12-42. Last year alone this great recruiting produced a 4-14 league record with 3 losses combined to DePaul and Georgetown...in other words exactly where is the immense success that should be applauded? The 7-0 start is nice, but it is against a schedule softer than Charmin with a rotation of barely 7 guys even against the bad teams. And this is the fruit of all that "great recruiting." And if the counter argument to this is "he needed time to build a roster" then why can't the counter to that be maybe "he chose the wrong strategy and maybe that is why it is taking him so long." No, not reasonable?
Honest question for some of you, with those same "facts" do you honestly think you would be defending any other SJU coach as hard as you do if their name was NOT "Chris Mullin?"
Look if some on this board want to always keep things positive especially since the team is 7-0, then why do those same people insist on starting threads on something that has CLEARLY been a weakness of this program and in essence "poke the bear."[/quote]
No but no other person in the world would have been hired without any head coaching experience. That makes this situation different because St. Johns didnt think they were hiring a good coach the day they hired CM. They hired him because they thought he could become a good coach. That is why in my view mullin deserves more of a leash, not a life time pass, but time. And quite frankly, though there have been plenty of times where the team looked like dogshit, and mullin himself looked clueless, he has built a very strong roster and they are currently 7-0. Maybe just maybe he is getting better at coaching.
I love the transfer u designation. Even losing Ponds and Clark after the season, next year will mark the first of hopefully many seasons we have continuity. That's how good programs keep it rolling.[/quote]
Not sure where this pom pom moment is coming from but gushing over getting two 4 star players via the transfer route who have had spotty longevity records at prior schools does not spell continuity but rather our modus operandi when we fail to land or maintain our own 4 star recuits.
Good for you if you are extremely happy with our recruiting but the transfer U designation has a double edged sword attached to that reputation. It may put doubts in the minds of high school recruits who see the staff favoring transfer players rather than giving talented 4 star players key roles from day one. Mullin's recent comments seem to back that philosophy. Were you extremely happy with this past season's recruiting of prep players? One is a 4 star and the other two are 3 star. Other than garbage time, has any shown you anything to give you good vibes for the approaching Big East games? Do you see a Kris Monroe, Jimmy Nichols, A.J. Reeves or David Duke among our freshmen? Those are the Providence freshmen that played key roles in defeating B.C. tonight.
We fortunately have a talented FIVE in year FOUR but with a huge flaw on the front line. That's not continuity. When 5TH year Marvin Clark shows he has developed a turn around jumper around the key or does more than put up 3 point shots we may have a chance with the more talented teams coming up.
Not having signed one of our original top 100 targets makes you happy with our recruiting?
North points to a disturbing fact and that is that this is Matt's team and not Mullin's. None of the three amigos from California have credit for a top recruit to this date.
I think we will loose 4 to 5 players by April. Just bringing in 4 star transfers doesn't guarantee anything at St. John's as North indirectly points out since many have left the program and our record has been in the. 500 range with all the great recruiting you celebrate.
Just presenting the minority point of view here.
[/quote]Minority point of view? Not sure it is.
BTW-I remember being told repeatedly after the Williams, Roberts and Earlington signings that this was evidence the staff was recruiting well because these were solid back up plans to missing on Muhammad, Naz Reid, Moses Brown etc...How is that working out?
One last thing, y'all do realize that this "strategy" has yielded a 3 year record of 38-60/12-42. Last year alone this great recruiting produced a 4-14 league record with 3 losses combined to DePaul and Georgetown...in other words exactly where is the immense success that should be applauded? The 7-0 start is nice, but it is against a schedule softer than Charmin with a rotation of barely 7 guys even against the bad teams. And this is the fruit of all that "great recruiting." And if the counter argument to this is "he needed time to build a roster" then why can't the counter to that be maybe "he chose the wrong strategy and maybe that is why it is taking him so long." No, not reasonable?
Honest question for some of you, with those same "facts" do you honestly think you would be defending any other SJU coach as hard as you do if their name was NOT "Chris Mullin?"
Look if some on this board want to always keep things positive especially since the team is 7-0, then why do those same people insist on starting threads on something that has CLEARLY been a weakness of this program and in essence "poke the bear."[/quote]
No but no other person in the world would have been hired without any head coaching experience. That makes this situation different because St. Johns didnt think they were hiring a good coach the day they hired CM. They hired him because they thought he could become a good coach. That is why in my view mullin deserves more of a leash, not a life time pass, but time. And quite frankly, though there have been plenty of times where the team looked like dogshit, and mullin himself looked clueless, he has built a very strong roster and they are currently 7-0. Maybe just maybe he is getting better at coaching.
Mullin looks like a better coach this year because Ponds stayed and Heron and LJ came on board. The recruiting of high school recruits has not worked out but the effort is there. Perhaps a bid this year will result in some improvement in that area.
As long as the transfers work out does it matter if the team is transfer heavy? This year's Prov- SJU games will probably be nail bitters between a high school recruit roster vs a transfer heavy roster. You can have success either way. Providence have some talented freshmen but I'll take LJ over all of them.
As long as the transfers work out does it matter if the team is transfer heavy? This year's Prov- SJU games will probably be nail bitters between a high school recruit roster vs a transfer heavy roster. You can have success either way. Providence have some talented freshmen but I'll take LJ over all of them.
we are sju
Active member
[quote="Amaseinyourface" post=306397][quote="fordham96" post=306341][quote="Class of 72" post=306337][quote="Marillac" post=306322]I am extremely happy with the recruiting. Our recruiting has gotten better each season...so much so that earlier recruits have left to find more playing time.
I love the transfer u designation. Even losing Ponds and Clark after the season, next year will mark the first of hopefully many seasons we have continuity. That's how good programs keep it rolling.[/quote]
Not sure where this pom pom moment is coming from but gushing over getting two 4 star players via the transfer route who have had spotty longevity records at prior schools does not spell continuity but rather our modus operandi when we fail to land or maintain our own 4 star recuits.
Good for you if you are extremely happy with our recruiting but the transfer U designation has a double edged sword attached to that reputation. It may put doubts in the minds of high school recruits who see the staff favoring transfer players rather than giving talented 4 star players key roles from day one. Mullin's recent comments seem to back that philosophy. Were you extremely happy with this past season's recruiting of prep players? One is a 4 star and the other two are 3 star. Other than garbage time, has any shown you anything to give you good vibes for the approaching Big East games? Do you see a Kris Monroe, Jimmy Nichols, A.J. Reeves or David Duke among our freshmen? Those are the Providence freshmen that played key roles in defeating B.C. tonight.
We fortunately have a talented FIVE in year FOUR but with a huge flaw on the front line. That's not continuity. When 5TH year Marvin Clark shows he has developed a turn around jumper around the key or does more than put up 3 point shots we may have a chance with the more talented teams coming up.
Not having signed one of our original top 100 targets makes you happy with our recruiting?
North points to a disturbing fact and that is that this is Matt's team and not Mullin's. None of the three amigos from California have credit for a top recruit to this date.
I think we will loose 4 to 5 players by April. Just bringing in 4 star transfers doesn't guarantee anything at St. John's as North indirectly points out since many have left the program and our record has been in the. 500 range with all the great recruiting you celebrate.
Just presenting the minority point of view here.[/quote]
Minority point of view? Not sure it is.
BTW-I remember being told repeatedly after the Williams, Roberts and Earlington signings that this was evidence the staff was recruiting well because these were solid back up plans to missing on Muhammad, Naz Reid, Moses Brown etc...How is that working out?
One last thing, y'all do realize that this "strategy" has yielded a 3 year record of 38-60/12-42. Last year alone this great recruiting produced a 4-14 league record with 3 losses combined to DePaul and Georgetown...in other words exactly where is the immense success that should be applauded? The 7-0 start is nice, but it is against a schedule softer than Charmin with a rotation of barely 7 guys even against the bad teams. And this is the fruit of all that "great recruiting." And if the counter argument to this is "he needed time to build a roster" then why can't the counter to that be maybe "he chose the wrong strategy and maybe that is why it is taking him so long." No, not reasonable?
Honest question for some of you, with those same "facts" do you honestly think you would be defending any other SJU coach as hard as you do if their name was NOT "Chris Mullin?"
Look if some on this board want to always keep things positive especially since the team is 7-0, then why do those same people insist on starting threads on something that has CLEARLY been a weakness of this program and in essence "poke the bear."[/quote]
No but no other person in the world would have been hired without any head coaching experience. That makes this situation different because St. Johns didnt think they were hiring a good coach the day they hired CM. They hired him because they thought he could become a good coach. That is why in my view mullin deserves more of a leash, not a life time pass, but time. And quite frankly, though there have been plenty of times where the team looked like dogshit, and mullin himself looked clueless, he has built a very strong roster and they are currently 7-0. Maybe just maybe he is getting better at coaching.[/quote]
People on here defended Norm like he was their child.
And I agree Chris Mullin deserved more time than Joe Schmoe. 4 years was not asking a lot especially since the best player he inherited was Christian Jones.
I love the transfer u designation. Even losing Ponds and Clark after the season, next year will mark the first of hopefully many seasons we have continuity. That's how good programs keep it rolling.[/quote]
Not sure where this pom pom moment is coming from but gushing over getting two 4 star players via the transfer route who have had spotty longevity records at prior schools does not spell continuity but rather our modus operandi when we fail to land or maintain our own 4 star recuits.
Good for you if you are extremely happy with our recruiting but the transfer U designation has a double edged sword attached to that reputation. It may put doubts in the minds of high school recruits who see the staff favoring transfer players rather than giving talented 4 star players key roles from day one. Mullin's recent comments seem to back that philosophy. Were you extremely happy with this past season's recruiting of prep players? One is a 4 star and the other two are 3 star. Other than garbage time, has any shown you anything to give you good vibes for the approaching Big East games? Do you see a Kris Monroe, Jimmy Nichols, A.J. Reeves or David Duke among our freshmen? Those are the Providence freshmen that played key roles in defeating B.C. tonight.
We fortunately have a talented FIVE in year FOUR but with a huge flaw on the front line. That's not continuity. When 5TH year Marvin Clark shows he has developed a turn around jumper around the key or does more than put up 3 point shots we may have a chance with the more talented teams coming up.
Not having signed one of our original top 100 targets makes you happy with our recruiting?
North points to a disturbing fact and that is that this is Matt's team and not Mullin's. None of the three amigos from California have credit for a top recruit to this date.
I think we will loose 4 to 5 players by April. Just bringing in 4 star transfers doesn't guarantee anything at St. John's as North indirectly points out since many have left the program and our record has been in the. 500 range with all the great recruiting you celebrate.
Just presenting the minority point of view here.
[/quote]Minority point of view? Not sure it is.
BTW-I remember being told repeatedly after the Williams, Roberts and Earlington signings that this was evidence the staff was recruiting well because these were solid back up plans to missing on Muhammad, Naz Reid, Moses Brown etc...How is that working out?
One last thing, y'all do realize that this "strategy" has yielded a 3 year record of 38-60/12-42. Last year alone this great recruiting produced a 4-14 league record with 3 losses combined to DePaul and Georgetown...in other words exactly where is the immense success that should be applauded? The 7-0 start is nice, but it is against a schedule softer than Charmin with a rotation of barely 7 guys even against the bad teams. And this is the fruit of all that "great recruiting." And if the counter argument to this is "he needed time to build a roster" then why can't the counter to that be maybe "he chose the wrong strategy and maybe that is why it is taking him so long." No, not reasonable?
Honest question for some of you, with those same "facts" do you honestly think you would be defending any other SJU coach as hard as you do if their name was NOT "Chris Mullin?"
Look if some on this board want to always keep things positive especially since the team is 7-0, then why do those same people insist on starting threads on something that has CLEARLY been a weakness of this program and in essence "poke the bear."[/quote]
No but no other person in the world would have been hired without any head coaching experience. That makes this situation different because St. Johns didnt think they were hiring a good coach the day they hired CM. They hired him because they thought he could become a good coach. That is why in my view mullin deserves more of a leash, not a life time pass, but time. And quite frankly, though there have been plenty of times where the team looked like dogshit, and mullin himself looked clueless, he has built a very strong roster and they are currently 7-0. Maybe just maybe he is getting better at coaching.[/quote]
People on here defended Norm like he was their child.
And I agree Chris Mullin deserved more time than Joe Schmoe. 4 years was not asking a lot especially since the best player he inherited was Christian Jones.
ronm
Well-known member
[quote="Amaseinyourface" post=306397][quote="fordham96" post=306341][quote="Class of 72" post=306337][quote="Marillac" post=306322]I am extremely happy with the recruiting. Our recruiting has gotten better each season...so much so that earlier recruits have left to find more playing time.
I love the transfer u designation. Even losing Ponds and Clark after the season, next year will mark the first of hopefully many seasons we have continuity. That's how good programs keep it rolling.[/quote]
Not sure where this pom pom moment is coming from but gushing over getting two 4 star players via the transfer route who have had spotty longevity records at prior schools does not spell continuity but rather our modus operandi when we fail to land or maintain our own 4 star recuits.
Good for you if you are extremely happy with our recruiting but the transfer U designation has a double edged sword attached to that reputation. It may put doubts in the minds of high school recruits who see the staff favoring transfer players rather than giving talented 4 star players key roles from day one. Mullin's recent comments seem to back that philosophy. Were you extremely happy with this past season's recruiting of prep players? One is a 4 star and the other two are 3 star. Other than garbage time, has any shown you anything to give you good vibes for the approaching Big East games? Do you see a Kris Monroe, Jimmy Nichols, A.J. Reeves or David Duke among our freshmen? Those are the Providence freshmen that played key roles in defeating B.C. tonight.
We fortunately have a talented FIVE in year FOUR but with a huge flaw on the front line. That's not continuity. When 5TH year Marvin Clark shows he has developed a turn around jumper around the key or does more than put up 3 point shots we may have a chance with the more talented teams coming up.
Not having signed one of our original top 100 targets makes you happy with our recruiting?
North points to a disturbing fact and that is that this is Matt's team and not Mullin's. None of the three amigos from California have credit for a top recruit to this date.
I think we will loose 4 to 5 players by April. Just bringing in 4 star transfers doesn't guarantee anything at St. John's as North indirectly points out since many have left the program and our record has been in the. 500 range with all the great recruiting you celebrate.
Just presenting the minority point of view here.[/quote]
Minority point of view? Not sure it is.
BTW-I remember being told repeatedly after the Williams, Roberts and Earlington signings that this was evidence the staff was recruiting well because these were solid back up plans to missing on Muhammad, Naz Reid, Moses Brown etc...How is that working out?
One last thing, y'all do realize that this "strategy" has yielded a 3 year record of 38-60/12-42. Last year alone this great recruiting produced a 4-14 league record with 3 losses combined to DePaul and Georgetown...in other words exactly where is the immense success that should be applauded? The 7-0 start is nice, but it is against a schedule softer than Charmin with a rotation of barely 7 guys even against the bad teams. And this is the fruit of all that "great recruiting." And if the counter argument to this is "he needed time to build a roster" then why can't the counter to that be maybe "he chose the wrong strategy and maybe that is why it is taking him so long." No, not reasonable?
Honest question for some of you, with those same "facts" do you honestly think you would be defending any other SJU coach as hard as you do if their name was NOT "Chris Mullin?"
Look if some on this board want to always keep things positive especially since the team is 7-0, then why do those same people insist on starting threads on something that has CLEARLY been a weakness of this program and in essence "poke the bear."[/quote]
No but no other person in the world would have been hired without any head coaching experience. That makes this situation different because St. Johns didnt think they were hiring a good coach the day they hired CM. They hired him because they thought he could become a good coach. That is why in my view mullin deserves more of a leash, not a life time pass, but time. And quite frankly, though there have been plenty of times where the team looked like dogshit, and mullin himself looked clueless, he has built a very strong roster and they are currently 7-0. Maybe just maybe he is getting better at coaching.[/quote]
I believe they hired him because they thought recruits would flock here to play for a legend and Hall of Famer. I presume they thought he would hire someone who actually knew how to coach and had coaching experience and not his friend. Just my two cents!
I love the transfer u designation. Even losing Ponds and Clark after the season, next year will mark the first of hopefully many seasons we have continuity. That's how good programs keep it rolling.[/quote]
Not sure where this pom pom moment is coming from but gushing over getting two 4 star players via the transfer route who have had spotty longevity records at prior schools does not spell continuity but rather our modus operandi when we fail to land or maintain our own 4 star recuits.
Good for you if you are extremely happy with our recruiting but the transfer U designation has a double edged sword attached to that reputation. It may put doubts in the minds of high school recruits who see the staff favoring transfer players rather than giving talented 4 star players key roles from day one. Mullin's recent comments seem to back that philosophy. Were you extremely happy with this past season's recruiting of prep players? One is a 4 star and the other two are 3 star. Other than garbage time, has any shown you anything to give you good vibes for the approaching Big East games? Do you see a Kris Monroe, Jimmy Nichols, A.J. Reeves or David Duke among our freshmen? Those are the Providence freshmen that played key roles in defeating B.C. tonight.
We fortunately have a talented FIVE in year FOUR but with a huge flaw on the front line. That's not continuity. When 5TH year Marvin Clark shows he has developed a turn around jumper around the key or does more than put up 3 point shots we may have a chance with the more talented teams coming up.
Not having signed one of our original top 100 targets makes you happy with our recruiting?
North points to a disturbing fact and that is that this is Matt's team and not Mullin's. None of the three amigos from California have credit for a top recruit to this date.
I think we will loose 4 to 5 players by April. Just bringing in 4 star transfers doesn't guarantee anything at St. John's as North indirectly points out since many have left the program and our record has been in the. 500 range with all the great recruiting you celebrate.
Just presenting the minority point of view here.
[/quote]Minority point of view? Not sure it is.
BTW-I remember being told repeatedly after the Williams, Roberts and Earlington signings that this was evidence the staff was recruiting well because these were solid back up plans to missing on Muhammad, Naz Reid, Moses Brown etc...How is that working out?
One last thing, y'all do realize that this "strategy" has yielded a 3 year record of 38-60/12-42. Last year alone this great recruiting produced a 4-14 league record with 3 losses combined to DePaul and Georgetown...in other words exactly where is the immense success that should be applauded? The 7-0 start is nice, but it is against a schedule softer than Charmin with a rotation of barely 7 guys even against the bad teams. And this is the fruit of all that "great recruiting." And if the counter argument to this is "he needed time to build a roster" then why can't the counter to that be maybe "he chose the wrong strategy and maybe that is why it is taking him so long." No, not reasonable?
Honest question for some of you, with those same "facts" do you honestly think you would be defending any other SJU coach as hard as you do if their name was NOT "Chris Mullin?"
Look if some on this board want to always keep things positive especially since the team is 7-0, then why do those same people insist on starting threads on something that has CLEARLY been a weakness of this program and in essence "poke the bear."[/quote]
No but no other person in the world would have been hired without any head coaching experience. That makes this situation different because St. Johns didnt think they were hiring a good coach the day they hired CM. They hired him because they thought he could become a good coach. That is why in my view mullin deserves more of a leash, not a life time pass, but time. And quite frankly, though there have been plenty of times where the team looked like dogshit, and mullin himself looked clueless, he has built a very strong roster and they are currently 7-0. Maybe just maybe he is getting better at coaching.[/quote]
I believe they hired him because they thought recruits would flock here to play for a legend and Hall of Famer. I presume they thought he would hire someone who actually knew how to coach and had coaching experience and not his friend. Just my two cents!