What do we really have on this roster?

[Matt1982]

Guards - Vaughn, Dixon, Wright, Davis and what's the deal with Tyree? Is he or is he not on this team? I never heard a word about him.

Forwards - Gates. Bishop and Wilks

Centers - Mcclain and Toyloy.

Is Ibrahima a forward or a center? Mike Williams type of player or another Adam H or Mcclain?

So, if this is all correct, the only additions to this team as far as playing time will be Kilpatrick, Wright and Ibrahima?

Williams is likely gone, Mitchell is headed in the wrong direction...Tyree shown on the roster, but never heard of the kid. Branden is outta here,

So basically there are as many as 4 spots open or as few as 1 or 2 open depending on Mitchell and Williams.

This is what NEEDS to happen. Either Wright and/or Kilpatrick and Ibrahima need to come into this joint and throw some fun at the team. I envision Wright being a bit of an emotional guy, which could be great. Can anyone tell me the last time they saw a Bearcat get in the face of another Bearcat?? I can't even remember when. Ultimately, I haven't liked the direction this team has gone, as has anyone really. But I hope Mitchell and Williams just move on, as I also hope Bishop takes a leave because he's been just as much of a disappointment as Mitchell.

Since we're not taking a new direction coaching-wise, it'd be awfully nice to weed out some players who aren't cutting it, period.

[Thegreatone]

John Williamson was a hardass that would get in the face of his teammates.

Thomas is more like Williams, although taller and longer I cant imagine he is as good of a shooter.

[TmacGoCats]

Tyree will never play........he's strictly a practice player much like Miller was.

I don't want Bishop to leave. He brings some good things to the table.

[righthook]

Guards - Vaughn, Dixon, Wright, Davis and what's the deal with Tyree? Is he or is he not on this team? I never heard a word about him.

Forwards - Gates. Bishop and Wilks

Centers - Mcclain and Toyloy.

Is Ibrahima a forward or a center? Mike Williams type of player or another Adam H or Mcclain?

So, if this is all correct, the only additions to this team as far as playing time will be Kilpatrick, Wright and Ibrahima?

Williams is likely gone, Mitchell is headed in the wrong direction...Tyree shown on the roster, but never heard of the kid. Branden is outta here,

So basically there are as many as 4 spots open or as few as 1 or 2 open depending on Mitchell and Williams.

This is what NEEDS to happen. Either Wright and/or Kilpatrick and Ibrahima need to come into this joint and throw some fun at the team. I envision Wright being a bit of an emotional guy, which could be great. Can anyone tell me the last time they saw a Bearcat get in the face of another Bearcat?? I can't even remember when. Ultimately, I haven't liked the direction this team has gone, as has anyone really. But I hope Mitchell and Williams just move on, as I also hope Bishop takes a leave because he's been just as much of a disappointment as Mitchell.

Since we're not taking a new direction coaching-wise, it'd be awfully nice to weed out some players who aren't cutting it, period.

I remember hearing that one of the reasons Thomas left Okla St was that he was unhappy he had to play the post so much. He likes to float and play the perimeter a little. So I'm guessing he'll be used as more of a PF.

[Thegreatone]

Tyree will never play........he's strictly a practice player much like Miller was.

I don't want Bishop to leave. He brings some good things to the table.

Agreed and I have no reason to believe Rashad aka Rashard is going to leave. Only clowns on this boards have said he was thinking about it.

[righthook]

Tyree will never play........he's strictly a practice player much like Miller was.

I don't want Bishop to leave. He brings some good things to the table.

Agree about Bishop. I really don't see him as a disappointment. When he was recruited, he didn't have stats that blew anyone away or something he really excelled in. He was just one of those jack-of-all-trades utility type players. The problem may be that he has had to start most of the time when he'd probably do better as a steady multi-position player coming off the bench.

[Matt1982]

Alright, arguments on Bishop are fair enough, I don't think he's a BE caliber starter, I'm ok with him coming off the bench to give quality minutes.

[Thegreatone]

Alright, arguments on Bishop are fair enough, I don't think he's a BE caliber starter, I'm ok with him coming off the bench to give quality minutes.

I agree, he would be a very good bench player with a lot of experience.

[bcatwilly]

We MUST have somebody who gets the other guys fired up and in line on the court. I also have some hopes that Cash Wright could end up being this type of guy. While it would seem to fly completely in the face of his apparent personality, can you image what it would mean to the rest of the team if Yancy turned into a 100% BEAST during the offseason and played that way on every play. Not only would Yancy have a shot at being first team all Big East in that scenario, but it would pay off huge with the efforts of other players. Mick really ought to be selling Yancy on that big time. Heck while I don't want to see Yancy leave any sooner than necessary that is also his ticket to significant NBA draft status after next season too.

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

Guards - Vaughn, Dixon, Wright, Davis and what's the deal with Tyree? Is he or is he not on this team? I never heard a word about him.

Forwards - Gates. Bishop and Wilks

Centers - Mcclain and Toyloy.

Is Ibrahima a forward or a center? Mike Williams type of player or another Adam H or Mcclain?

So, if this is all correct, the only additions to this team as far as playing time will be Kilpatrick, Wright and Ibrahima?

Williams is likely gone, Mitchell is headed in the wrong direction...Tyree shown on the roster, but never heard of the kid. Branden is outta here,

So basically there are as many as 4 spots open or as few as 1 or 2 open depending on Mitchell and Williams.

This is what NEEDS to happen. Either Wright and/or Kilpatrick and Ibrahima need to come into this joint and throw some fun at the team. I envision Wright being a bit of an emotional guy, which could be great. Can anyone tell me the last time they saw a Bearcat get in the face of another Bearcat?? I can't even remember when. Ultimately, I haven't liked the direction this team has gone, as has anyone really. But I hope Mitchell and Williams just move on, as I also hope Bishop takes a leave because he's been just as much of a disappointment as Mitchell.

Since we're not taking a new direction coaching-wise, it'd be awfully nice to weed out some players who aren't cutting it, period.


Ibrihama Thomas is PF and a good one (per someone who coached gainst him in Big 12).

WF Bishop - Wilks - Mitchell or Kilpatrick
PF Williams or recruit - Thomas
C Gates - Toyloy - McClain
SG Vaughn - Davis - Dixon
PG Wright - PG recruit

Very solid roster. Many Srs and Jrs, few Sophs and Frosh.

[STKohls]

We MUST have somebody who gets the other guys fired up and in line on the court. I also have some hopes that Cash Wright could end up being this type of guy. While it would seem to fly completely in the face of his apparent personality, can you image what it would mean to the rest of the team if Yancy turned into a 100% BEAST during the offseason and played that way on every play. Not only would Yancy have a shot at being first team all Big East in that scenario, but it would pay off huge with the efforts of other players. Mick really ought to be selling Yancy on that big time. Heck while I don't want to see Yancy leave any sooner than necessary that is also his ticket to significant NBA draft status after next season too.

Wright seems to be a great teammate, witness the quiet encouragement he gave Steve Toyloy after the Foul Shooting debacle against West Virginia. Based on that, I'm not sure I see him getting in the face of his teammates. Of course, I don't know him personally so I could be completely wrong...

[Bearcat Jeff]

Wright seems to be a great teammate, witness the quiet encouragement he gave Steve Toyloy after the Foul Shooting debacle against West Virginia. Based on that, I'm not sure I see him getting in the face of his teammates. Of course, I don't know him personally so I could be completely wrong... He gave encouragement and that too shows leadership. You haven't seen any player to player interaction this season. That is a good sign.

[juckerrules]

Bishop might be a more impressive player if we had a true point guard - he had to worry about bringing the ball up court half the time - might have taken away from his game - might also make him a much better player as a Junior, playing with Wright as the point and Rashad playing as a forward instead of some quasi guard/forward hybrid

[Bearcat Jeff]

Bishop might be a more impressive player if we had a true point guard - he had to worry about bringing the ball up court half the time - might have taken away from his game - might also make him a much better player as a Junior, playing with Wright as the point and Rashad playing as a forward instead of some quasi guard/forward hybrid I'm sure playing out of position hurt him and his progress. However, that doesn't excuse his play when he was at forward. He had far too many 1-3 point games. He can't be invisible that often on the offensive end. There are far too many players on this team with no aggression. They have to find guys that attack. Over the past 20 years the NCAA Champ has had at least 2 pros on the team. The Cats have to get there.

[ralph1950]

UC has some decent basketball players on the team, if John Reik who was recruited by Duke and other big time schools could somehow get eligible, UC would be the favorite to win the 2010 NCAA Tourney.

[BasketBySteveLogan]

I like Rashad's defense and passing ability...

but he can't dunk. Not one dunk in two years.

I don't like having 6'5" guys who can't dunk- need better athletes than that to compete in the Big East.

[DOOGINS]

That's what I'm talking about. Norman Vincent Peale!!! Is there a chance, however slight that we get Reik in a uniform next year? If that day comes everthing changes. We would have a point guard. A great PF and a true center with depth. Happy St. Paddy's day!

[slimm]

Ibrihama Thomas is PF and a good one (per someone who coached gainst him in Big 12).

WF Bishop - Wilks - Mitchell or Kilpatrick
PF Williams or recruit - Thomas
C Gates - Toyloy - McClain
SG Vaughn - Davis - Dixon
PG Wright - PG recruit

Very solid roster. Many Srs and Jrs, few Sophs and Frosh.

this looks very nice. I think the fun & emotion might come back when/if some of the undisclosed issues are resolved in the off season
________
California Dispensaries (http://california.dispensaries.org/)

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

I always love ralph's optimism...it often times puts mine to shame, and I appreciate that.

I had posted on here before that Riek was a virtual lock to NOT ever play at UC, nor college at all. I had very good sources on that. when the thread was started I believe a week ago, I again publicly stated that Riek was 99% to not ever play for us.

It does appear that my sources were wrong, and I will admit that readily now, if only because I heard from perhaps the best source a person can hear from that he is back in play.

However, there is still some trepidation on my part. I am hopeful, but still taking a "seeing is believing" attitude.

Also, as far as ralph's post about Riek = favorite for the 2010 National Title, I have to respectfully disagree with that statement. Love the enthusiasm about Riek, but I just don't agree.

Now, perhaps having him puts us firmly in the top 4 or 5 of the Big East next year, but National Title favorite I just can't see.

Again, love the enthusiasm as always.

Go Cats!

[cincyboy24]

Why does no one like Alvin Mitchell? Have you guys forgotten what made the Cats good in the 90's? Its attittude and intimidation that teams use to fear whenever they had to play the Cats. I still remember the slogan they used about a decade ago, "Intimidate. Dominate. Celebrate." Alvin Mitchell may not be the best shooter, or dribbler, but honestly, not many players on the team right now can shoot or dribble. Alvin brings the attittude and swagger that the cats havent had since Kennedy was the interim. Watching the Big East Tourny game between Seton Hall and Syracuse when they got into the small confrontations you could see why Syracuse is good, they have attitude.

[Kindog202]

^ Globe, that would be awesome if Riek is back in play. Can you give us a % chance that he suits up and plays next year. Also, is he still committed to UC in that if he is cleared to play college ball, he is playing at UC or would there be a chance he would head to another school. As always, appreciate your insight.

[TheLivingLegend]

I like Rashad's defense and passing ability...

but he can't dunk. Not one dunk in two years.

I don't like having 6'5" guys who can't dunk- need better athletes than that to compete in the Big East.

I would bet rashad can dunk.

[Not Guilty]

I always love ralph's optimism...it often times puts mine to shame, and I appreciate that.

I had posted on here before that Riek was a virtual lock to NOT ever play at UC, nor college at all. I had very good sources on that. when the thread was started I believe a week ago, I again publicly stated that Riek was 99% to not ever play for us.

It does appear that my sources were wrong, and I will admit that readily now, if only because I heard from perhaps the best source a person can hear from that he is back in play.

However, there is still some trepidation on my part. I am hopeful, but still taking a "seeing is believing" attitude.

Also, as far as ralph's post about Riek = favorite for the 2010 National Title, I have to respectfully disagree with that statement. Love the enthusiasm about Riek, but I just don't agree.

Now, perhaps having him puts us firmly in the top 4 or 5 of the Big East next year, but National Title favorite I just can't see.

Again, love the enthusiasm as always.

Go Cats!

Interesting. I thought Ralph was only saying those things about Reik to get a rise out of some posters on here knowing he would never suit up. Now that there might be a chance of him suiting up kinda puts Ralph out there a little.

[Joe_Pong]

Ibrihama Thomas is PF and a good one (per someone who coached gainst him in Big 12).

WF Bishop - Wilks - Mitchell or Kilpatrick
PF Williams or recruit - Thomas
C Gates - Toyloy - McClain
SG Vaughn - Davis - Dixon
PG Wright - PG recruit

Very solid roster. Many Srs and Jrs, few Sophs and Frosh.

It's a very solid roster if you are satisfied with finishing in the bottom half of the conference and not quilifying for post-season play.

[ralph1950]

It's a very solid roster if you are satisfied with finishing in the bottom half of the conference and not quilifying for post-season play.

Yes, we are all very satisified with finishing in the bottom half of the conference and not getting in post season play. It is less stressful not to have to concern ourselves with seeding, etc. on selection Sunday, we do not have to be concerned about Joe Lunardi having us in or out. We save money by not having to buy tickets for the post season and by not having to pay for travel and hotel to out of town post season cities. We have no stress watching our team play in a close down to the buzzer NCAA tourney game. We all want Mick to keep the roster as is and to only recruit players who are just a small step above MAC players.

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

Interesting. I thought Ralph was only saying those things about Reik to get a rise out of some posters on here knowing he would never suit up. Now that there might be a chance of him suiting up kinda puts Ralph out there a little.

Well, like I said, I do love the enthusiasm about Riek, however I think the expectation he is throwing out there is just a little too much.

I had the chance to see Riek play before, and he is every bit as long as you could imagine. He is also deceptively strong, but he is also just learning the game offensively and about his only move is dunking the ball (and I know, some will say things like "we don't have anyone other than Yancy who does that so thats great!"), which if you don't truly know how to use your body to get position, makes you about as effective as SOME believe Biggie presently is.

IF he does get on campus, cleared by the NCAA AND medically, gets to play, his biggest attribute early on will be his defensive presence (which hopefully is all we shall need from him early on).

Again, I really hope that we end up with him on the team, but assuming we are the favorite for the title is just a little TOO much optimism for my optimistic blood.

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

Kingdog, I have heard that should he get back physically and should everything else work out, Riek is seriously in play, although no percentage was given.

I also want to "call out" (in a positive way) the_one_32. He is the one who originally started a thread stating that Riek was back in play. In that same thread, I continued to quote my sources who said he (Riek) would never be able to play college ball.

It was not until I got to NYC for the Big East tournament that I was able to confirm there that the_one_32 was indeed correct in the thread he started.

So, while I appreciate people asking me here my opinions on this matter, I just wish to say publicly to the_one_32, good job on your source and good "reporting". You "broke the story" so to speak. :)

Go Cats!

[Vaughn5]

Great news! Riek would be HUGE for this team!

[Matt1982]

Not to burst the bubble on the Riek party, but if you go to this site and read what it says about him... I'm not too enthused, do we really need Biggie Jr on this team?

http://www.nbadraft.net/players/john-riek

[Thegreatone]

Not to burst the bubble on the Riek party, but if you go to this site and read what it says about him... I'm not too enthused, do we really need Biggie Jr on this team?

http://www.nbadraft.net/players/john-riek

Your not enthused????????

Man, o well dump the idea then.

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

Matt1982, I understand your concerns.

That report is fairly accurate from what I have seen, and as stated a few posts back, his biggest attribute to the team would be defense early on.

He is (much like Thabeet) a major offensive project.

[beeman7467]

Yes, we are all very satisified with finishing in the bottom half of the conference and not getting in post season play. It is less stressful not to have to concern ourselves with seeding, etc. on selection Sunday, we do not have to be concerned about Joe Lunardi having us in or out. We save money by not having to buy tickets for the post season and by not having to pay for travel and hotel to out of town post season cities. We have no stress watching our team play in a close down to the buzzer NCAA tourney game. We all want Mick to keep the roster as is and to only recruit players who are just a small step above MAC players.

Now you're coming around :)............

[beeman7467]

Not to burst the bubble on the Riek party, but if you go to this site and read what it says about him... I'm not too enthused, do we really need Biggie Jr on this team?

http://www.nbadraft.net/players/john-riek

That throws a lot of cold water on the idea of him suiting up for the Cats. Until proven wrong, I don't believe he'll ever play a game for UC>

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

For me, I have said I am cautiously optimistic now.

I think he would be a great addition to the squad, but offensively, he is a big project.

The key would be his work ethic and attitude. From what I have been told about Riek's attitude, he basically wants to use basketball as a platform to take care of his family back home, which is fairly admirable, so I would HOPE that means IF he ever gets cleared medically/NCAA wise he would come in and bust his butt.

[gocats45]

I emailed Dan Hoard on the Reik subject. His quote was "I am under the impression that John Riek will never play college basketball."

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

I emailed Dan Hoard on the Reik subject. His quote was "I am under the impression that John Riek will never play college basketball."

Hoard is correct. Riek will not play NCAA hoops.

[Vaughn5]

How do you know riek will not play for uc? ^

[Thegreatone]

58' and Hoard = The Truth

I believe these guys more than un-named sources.

[Doss]

It is all the separates us from the NCAA Trophy.

Hoard is correct. Riek will not play NCAA hoops.

[all-about-the-Bearcats]

Rashad Bishop is never going to be a factor on the offense end because of the fire he does not play with!!! i have never seen the guy even throw down a dunk. I know that dunking doesnt matter as long as you put the ball in the basket but it would be nice to see some personality. He is pretty physically gifted and needs

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

The only reason I am even remotely optimistic that Riek COULD play is because the person who told me I trust implicitly in ALL things UC basketball. The exact words used were "he is back in play".

But again, even IF he comes, is eligible and healthy, he is still a big project.

I know I am repeating myself at this point, and for that I am sorry, but just reiterating.

[Kindog202]

^ IF he does come here, all I ask is that he guards and intimidates in the paint, any offense will be gravy. I think this team will improve offensively by leaps and bounds next year because of who is coming in and everyone will be at a more natural position than they played this year
**
Picture if you can - a lineup of Wright, Vaughn, Thomas, Gates and Riek with guys like Dixon, Kilpatrick, Wilks, Bishop, Williams coming off the bench plus maybe a Darius Smith or James Beatty or Terrell Vinson in the mix as well.

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

^I think those would be realistic expectations for Riek, again, IF he is ever here.

And I also agree that the teams offensive production will improve greatly next year.

I think we sometimes forget how important having a really good point can be to a teams entire scheme. Players like Fields, Price, Lawson etc all make their teams go, and we did lack that this year.

We still won 18 games, but if we had that component, how many more would we have won?

[long suffering UC fan]

Well, like I said, I do love the enthusiasm about Riek, however I think the expectation he is throwing out there is just a little too much.

I had the chance to see Riek play before, and he is every bit as long as you could imagine. He is also deceptively strong, but he is also just learning the game offensively and about his only move is dunking the ball (and I know, some will say things like "we don't have anyone other than Yancy who does that so thats great!"), which if you don't truly know how to use your body to get position, makes you about as effective as SOME believe Biggie presently is.

IF he does get on campus, cleared by the NCAA AND medically, gets to play, his biggest attribute early on will be his defensive presence (which hopefully is all we shall need from him early on).

Again, I really hope that we end up with him on the team, but assuming we are the favorite for the title is just a little TOO much optimism for my optimistic blood.


I'm sure I usually come off as much less than an optimist, so here is my chance to jump in with at least a little optimism. I've never even seen what Riek looks like, but if this guy plays next year, your description of him doesn't contrast with a description of Greg Oden and or Thabeet, who helped their teams a little. I'm sure that even the most optimistic on this forum (aside for maybe 1) wouldn't expect him to be anywhere near that caliber, but your worries of a lack of a rounded offensive game don't worry me much about a 7 footer. He would help this team tremendously (if he were ever to gain eligibility) if he could run the floor and rebound like an above average Big East Center. Biggie's problems aren't b/c he lacks polish - his problems are b/c he is way slower than everyone else in the league, and doesn't have any power to use to counter that. Still, if Riek somehow pans out or a different high caliber center were obtained somehow, Biggie can develop to be a fine backup center.

[ralph1950]

The only reason I am even remotely optimistic that Riek COULD play is because the person who told me I trust implicitly in ALL things UC basketball. The exact words used were "he is back in play".

But again, even IF he comes, is eligible and healthy, he is still a big project.

I know I am repeating myself at this point, and for that I am sorry, but just reiterating.

John Reik is not a project, he is a big time monster shot blocker who would make UC the favorite for the NCAA Title next season. Better than Roy Hibbert who carried Georgetown to the 2007 & 2008 Big East Titles and the 2007 Final 4. This year with Hibbert gone Georgetown finishes 12th in the Big East. One player can make a big difference.

[slimm]

John Reik is not a project, he is a big time monster shot blocker who would make UC the favorite for the NCAA Title next season. Better than Roy Hibbert who carried Georgetown to the 2007 & 2008 Big East Titles and the 2007 Final 4. This year with Hibbert gone Georgetown finishes 12th in the Big East. One player can make a big difference.

UC would not be the favorite for the NCAA Title next season
________
HOW TO ROLL BLUNTS (http://howtorollablunt.net/)

[Pie Hole]

John Reik is not a project, he is a big time monster shot blocker who would make UC the favorite for the NCAA Title next season. Better than Roy Hibbert who carried Georgetown to the 2007 & 2008 Big East Titles and the 2007 Final 4. This year with Hibbert gone Georgetown finishes 12th in the Big East. One player can make a big difference.

You're exactly right Ralph. UC will be the odds on favorite to win the NCAA nitle next year if Riek plays. They will also not lose 1 game next year. They're average margin of victory will be at least 50 points a game. Riek will easily score over 2000 points in his first year (nobody can doubt that).

With Riek in the mix, there is little doubt that the 2009-2010 Bearcats will go down as the greatest team in the history of the NCAA.

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

ralph, I will have to agree AND disagree with you on this one.

Riek IS an offensive project from everything I have watched, heard, been told etc. He has no post moves yet. He has no baby hook or ability to step out and hit a mid range jumper. About all he can do on the offense is dunk the ball. Now, he dunks the ball hard, and he dunks the ball often, but when he is not in position to do that, he travels allot, puts up some off balance shots etc.

Also, and I can not stress this point enough, he is coming off major surgery to his knee and from what I have heard he is not even back on the court yet. That will most likely mean that IF/when he is ready to go, it will take him a fairly long time to get back to game speed.

Now, defensively I have no concerns about Riek's game. He can block just about anything within his reach (which is long) and does a very good job coming to the ball and forcing guys out of the paint.

Now, please do not confuse my realistic outlook with pessimism. I would obviously prefer to have the guy on our squad than not. However, IMO, John Riek does not equal out to favorites for anything next year, and as I have stated before, the best having him would mean in my eyes would be a fairly secure spot in the top half or third of the Big East next year.

[dp3113]

ralph, I will have to agree AND disagree with you on this one.

Riek IS an offensive project from everything I have watched, heard, been told etc. He has no post moves yet. He has no baby hook or ability to step out and hit a mid range jumper. About all he can do on the offense is dunk the ball. Now, he dunks the ball hard, and he dunks the ball often, but when he is not in position to do that, he travels allot, puts up some off balance shots etc.

Also, and I can not stress this point enough, he is coming off major surgery to his knee and from what I have heard he is not even back on the court yet. That will most likely mean that IF/when he is ready to go, it will take him a fairly long time to get back to game speed.

Now, defensively I have no concerns about Riek's game. He can block just about anything within his reach (which is long) and does a very good job coming to the ball and forcing guys out of the paint.

Now, please do not confuse my realistic outlook with pessimism. I would obviously prefer to have the guy on our squad than not. However, IMO, John Riek does not equal out to favorites for anything next year, and as I have stated before, the best having him would mean in my eyes would be a fairly secure spot in the top half or third of the Big East next year.

I can't believe you are still arguing this with Ralph. Were you not around when Reik committed and or early last year when many thought he was going to be a Bearcat sometime in the 08-09 season? Ralph has been saying this "with Reik UC is the favorite for national champion" bs for over 6 months now. I thought everyone had just ignored this comment by him and not even dignified it with a response by now.

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

I can't believe you are still arguing this with Ralph. Were you not around when Reik committed and or early last year when many thought he was going to be a Bearcat sometime in the 08-09 season? Ralph has been saying this "with Reik UC is the favorite for national champion" bs for over 6 months now. I thought everyone had just ignored this comment by him and not even dignified it with a response by now.

Well, I just see it as friendly debate.

I have said before, I do appreciate the optimism. :)

Go Cats!

[shaunsimpson]

ralph, I will have to agree AND disagree with you on this one.

Riek IS an offensive project from everything I have watched, heard, been told etc. He has no post moves yet. He has no baby hook or ability to step out and hit a mid range jumper. About all he can do on the offense is dunk the ball. Now, he dunks the ball hard, and he dunks the ball often, but when he is not in position to do that, he travels allot, puts up some off balance shots etc.

Also, and I can not stress this point enough, he is coming off major surgery to his knee and from what I have heard he is not even back on the court yet. That will most likely mean that IF/when he is ready to go, it will take him a fairly long time to get back to game speed.

Now, defensively I have no concerns about Riek's game. He can block just about anything within his reach (which is long) and does a very good job coming to the ball and forcing guys out of the paint.

Now, please do not confuse my realistic outlook with pessimism. I would obviously prefer to have the guy on our squad than not. However, IMO, John Riek does not equal out to favorites for anything next year, and as I have stated before, the best having him would mean in my eyes would be a fairly secure spot in the top half or third of the Big East next year.

As much of a project he may be on offense if he is as athletic as some believe he is he will have more than a project on the offensive end. If he is able to square up and give the guards a big target to pass to in the correct position then it is tough to stop a big man with that kind of athletic ability. That and if he is strong enough he can put the ball back up strong off of offensive rebounds.

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

As much of a project he may be on offense if he is as athletic as some believe he is he will have more than a project on the offensive end. If he is able to square up and give the guards a big target to pass to in the correct position then it is tough to stop a big man with that kind of athletic ability. That and if he is strong enough he can put the ball back up strong off of offensive rebounds.

I agree with that statement shaunsimpson. He will absolutely be a HUGE target for Cash or whomever to get the ball to, IF he ends up playing.

But I also hope that people realize that it will take time is all. :)

[dp3113]

I agree with that statement shaunsimpson. He will absolutely be a HUGE target for Cash or whomever to get the ball to, IF he ends up playing.

But I also hope that people realize that it will take time is all. :)

Appreciate the the insight you offer here. Can you possibly tell us what exactly changed in the Reik situation?

[catscratchfever]

I'm not real familiar with the Riek situation, but I question why, after all of this time (healing presumably), that Riek wouldn't just go to the NBA. If he is as good as people say (ralph) he should have no trouble adjusting to the play in the league.

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

^catscratchfever, from what I have been told, the reason that he doesn't is because of what I and some others have stated: offensively he is a project.

As always, I love ralph's enthusiasm about all things UC, but IF he can get here, I think it is better for him to play college ball so he can develop at least one or two decent offensive moves.

[slimm]

^catscratchfever, from what I have been told, the reason that he doesn't is because of what I and some others have stated: offensively he is a project.

As always, I love ralph's enthusiasm about all things UC, but IF he can get here, I think it is better for him to play college ball so he can develop at least one or two decent offensive moves.

that being said, why waste time with a project player that needs do develop offensively when we are trying to rebuild?
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[Major ----de Coverley]

^catscratchfever, from what I have been told, the reason that he doesn't is because of what I and some others have stated: offensively he is a project.

As always, I love ralph's enthusiasm about all things UC, but IF he can get here, I think it is better for him to play college ball so he can develop at least one or two decent offensive moves.

If Riek should happen to be on the active roster this fall do you think that will enhance the chances of Biggie taking a red shirt year or is that not in the cards.

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

that being said, why waste time with a project player that needs do develop offensively when we are trying to rebuild?

That is a good question. In my mind slimm, and my answer is purely speculative so bear with me: Hasheem Thabeet.

When Thabeet came to visit UC before picking UCONN, you could see the world of potential under the raw exterior. You knew he was going to bring defense from the get go, but you also could see the determination for him to become a better player overall.

Also, and this again is speculative, but I have to believe that Riek is highly motivated since he is trying to use basketball as a jumping off point to provide for his family back home. This would lead me to believe that he would come in and work his butt off from moment one.

Again, all speculative guess work, but seems right in my mind...whatever good that is! ;)

[slimm]

That is a good question. In my mind slimm, and my answer is purely speculative so bear with me: Hasheem Thabeet.

When Thabeet came to visit UC before picking UCONN, you could see the world of potential under the raw exterior. You knew he was going to bring defense from the get go, but you also could see the determination for him to become a better player overall.

Also, and this again is speculative, but I have to believe that Riek is highly motivated since he is trying to use basketball as a jumping off point to provide for his family back home. This would lead me to believe that he would come in and work his butt off from moment one.

Again, all speculative guess work, but seems right in my mind...whatever good that is! ;)

I agree. just that UConn was just restocking where as we're rebuilding. just thinking we dont have the luxury to have a project player
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[Lobot]

I agree. just that UConn was just restocking where as we're rebuilding. just thinking we dont have the luxury to have a project player

I seem to remember this guy named Kenyon that was considered a project when we got him.

[slimm]

I seem to remember this guy named Kenyon that was considered a project when we got him.

yep, but we we were not rebuilding at the time. and comparing Thabeet to Martin as projects are night & day. Thabeet was a 5 star, and well ,you know the rankings compared to martin
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[PakMan]

I don't know much about Riek, except that he's fairly uncoordinated but VERY long.

But what I wanted to say is that Ibrahima Thomas is absolutely a starter on next year's squad. He's got a very nice mid-range jump shot, is very athletic, and has a good wingspan. I would like to see him as a 3, but he's not the best of ball handlers just yet.

He and Cashmere make this team SIGNIFICANTLY better. Add Kilpatrick (don't know anything about him) and we are an NCAA team (I predict a 8 seed in next year's tourney).

[ralph1950]

ralph, I will have to agree AND disagree with you on this one.

Riek IS an offensive project from everything I have watched, heard, been told etc. He has no post moves yet. He has no baby hook or ability to step out and hit a mid range jumper. About all he can do on the offense is dunk the ball. Now, he dunks the ball hard, and he dunks the ball often, but when he is not in position to do that, he travels allot, puts up some off balance shots etc.

Also, and I can not stress this point enough, he is coming off major surgery to his knee and from what I have heard he is not even back on the court yet. That will most likely mean that IF/when he is ready to go, it will take him a fairly long time to get back to game speed.

Now, defensively I have no concerns about Riek's game. He can block just about anything within his reach (which is long) and does a very good job coming to the ball and forcing guys out of the paint.

Now, please do not confuse my realistic outlook with pessimism. I would obviously prefer to have the guy on our squad than not. However, IMO, John Riek does not equal out to favorites for anything next year, and as I have stated before, the best having him would mean in my eyes would be a fairly secure spot in the top half or third of the Big East next year.

You have not seen him play in person, I have.

[slimm]

You have not seen him play in person, I have.

where have you seen him play in person? against what kind of competition? for him to make us the national title favorite if we land him, he would have to be thabeet/martinesque from the get go.
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[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

I again agree to disagree ralph.

By the way, I didn't know you were following me around knowing everything I do on a daily basis...nice! ;)

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

yep, but we we were not rebuilding at the time. and comparing Thabeet to Martin as projects are night & day. Thabeet was a 5 star, and well ,you know the rankings compared to martin

Martin was rated in the Top 25 by some (Gibbons, Clark Francis) and Top 50 to 75 range by most.

[levydl]

yep, but we we were not rebuilding at the time. and comparing Thabeet to Martin as projects are night & day. Thabeet was a 5 star, and well ,you know the rankings compared to martin

Thabeet wasn't even rated by several services - he was certainly not a 5 star. He sort of came out of no where. Mick was apparently one of the first guys to hear about him and he almost got him signed up before the word got out.

And Kenyon was a highly rated recruit. Not an all american, but still a highly rated prospect, as '58 said.

And why would we want Reik now? He's the best we can get this year or probably next.

[shaunsimpson]

Thabeet wasn't even rated by several services - he was certainly not a 5 star. He sort of came out of no where. Mick was apparently one of the first guys to hear about him and he almost got him signed up before the word got out.

Thabeet was the 8th highest rated Center by Scout and a 4 star by Rivals. He had offers from Louisville, Cincinnati, UConn, Auburn, Baylor, Miami, Miss St, Oklahoma and USC. He as a big ? on being eligible so that scared a few programs away.

[levydl]

Thabeet was the 8th highest rated Center by Scout and a 4 star by Rivals. He had offers from Louisville, Cincinnati, UConn, Auburn, Baylor, Miami, Miss St, Oklahoma and USC. He as a big ? on being eligible so that scared a few programs away.

Well, Rivals doesn't rank him in their top 150 for 2006 and Scout has him as a 4*. Either way, he wasn't a consensus 5* player in his class

[YouGuessedItFrankStallone]

Also, if I remember correctly, Rivals initially had Riek ranked in its top 5 of his class before dropping him down, presumably due to eligibility concerns.

[LongTimer]

I again agree to disagree ralph.

By the way, I didn't know you were following me around knowing everything I do on a daily basis...nice! ;)

Ralph has been following me also. He know which games I didn't attend this year. He has the times of my posts on here tracked daily. He even knows what my wife was wearing on a particular night. He is amazing and is a great Bearcat!