Riek to Mississippi State?

[Nerf]

Ok, what the ****?

http://community.foxsports.com/blogs/goodmanonfox

[Bearcat Jeff]

Wow, but did you catch the part about maybe receiving improper benefits and having to repay them before he could play? Maybe the Cats interest dropped.

[Bearcat Jeff]

Or maybe the kid simply changed his mind.

[anbuc88]

WTF??? Adding a healthy Riek would have made this a successful recruiting class, IMO. Without him, we only have Kilpatrick (along with Thomas and Cash Wright, of course) to add to next year roster. Paging Bcat, Ralph, the_one_32. I thought that Reik was a done deal and his paperwork was in.

[Thegreatone]

BCL reported he signed a LOI.... I will wait to see wht is happening. Wow, that would be devastating.

[catscratchfever]

If this is true then I don't know why anyone would ever give a dollar to bearcatlair. I guess it would explain why Biggie changed his mind and decided to stay at UC.

Get ready for Joe_Pong!!!! He should arrive in 3...2...1...

[Thegreatone]

Dont be too alarmed. BCL said Riek Paperwork in. On rivals it says LOI signed. He may or may not have recieved improper benefits but I dont believe for a second he just chose MIss St. over us and we just missed out.

The Saga continues

[catscratchfever]

Dont be too alarmed. BCL said Riek Paperwork in. On rivals it says LOI signed. He may or may not have recieved improper benefits but I dont believe for a second he just chose MIss St. over us and we just missed out.

The Saga continues
Unless i'm reading it wrong, isn't the signed LOI referred to by rivals the one that was signed in august of '08?

[Thegreatone]

Unless i'm reading it wrong, isn't the signed LOI referred to by rivals the one that was signed in august of '08?

He signed a finicial agreement. He signed his LOI 4/15, signing day, I believe. Now if he were to sign another LOI ours would take precendent I do believe.

[bcross]

If true, than Mississippi State will be the new favorite to win the National Championship.

[Thegreatone]

What the **** is Miss. St. doing recruiting him after he signed LOI??

[Lobot]

Is it possible that we released him from his paperwork after finding out about the improper benefits?

[slimm]

..........SURPRISE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!woohoo!!!!

[Doss]

Is this Mick's SURPRISE?

Ralph what does this do for our NC?

As my departed MIL would say "THIS IS A FINE KETTLE OF FISH!"

[Bcat]

I am working on finding something out now. I was told by several people that he signed his LOI on 4/15. UC has his signed letter. This is very strange and came out of nowhere as far as I am concerned.

IMG also posted on their official site that he chose to go to UC. This was at least a week ago. Maybe the day he signed the letter, 4/15. Not sure on the date they posted it. As mentioned before, Rivals also verified that he signed.

I do not know anything about the improper benefits. I was told a while ago that everything checked out ok. He has also been cleared to play by the NCAA and his knee is fine.

[bcross]

I don't remember seeing a release from the school that Riek sign a LOI, so maybe he never signed???

[slimm]

TA DA!!!!

http://sechoopsgoodbaddirty.wordpress.com/2009/05/03/mississippi-state-adds-john-riek/

[Bcat]

I don't remember seeing a release from the school that Riek sign a LOI, so maybe he never signed???

The school can only make one announcement per class. They normally do it when the class is complete. Obviously, Mick has been looking for a few other guys and has not considered the class completed. John Reik signed an LOI to come to UC. Now, if he asked out of it, then that would have happened over this weekend. I have not seen or heard that he has been released. I would have an idea right now.

[milfordcats]

Can you say buzz kill?

[Cats4Ever]

I guess this makes mick Biggie's new BFF!!!

:D :D :D

[Thegreatone]

Miss St. can say whatever they want. He signed with us. He has NO options. Maybe this kid is more of a headach than he is worth?

W/e tho I am not worried. He HAS NO OPTIONS. UC OR NOTHING. He signed with us according to multiple sources.

[bcatwilly]

Miss St. can say whatever they want. He signed with us. He has NO options. Maybe this kid is more of a headach than he is worth?

W/e tho I am not worried. He HAS NO OPTIONS. UC OR NOTHING. He signed with us according to multiple sources.

My guess is with a foreign guy like him that the biggest headache at this point is any "handlers", which is likely the source of this late game wackiness. So even if a little uncomfortable at first to clear it up I would think he would be fine once he gets to school and away from the recruiting guys.

[bcross]

Riek was on Mississippi State's campus this weekend. He's as good as gone.

[Thegreatone]

Then he shouldnt have signed a LOI. How is he as good as gone. Is he going to sit out ANOTHER year??? Doubt it. He doesnt have the choice is all I am sayin bcross.

[Thegreatone]

Also why isnt miss. st. rivals page reporting anything?? I would be shocked if John was in a Miss. St. Uniform next year. He may not be a bearcat but if he plays College hoops it will be for us.

[bcross]

I really doubt their is a LOI at this point. I am sure Mississippi State would have checked into this before hand, because it is a big no-no to recruit someone who signed a LOI. I am just being realistic.

[Lobot]

OK let's think about this for a sec. NCAA is investigating him for improper benefits which means we can't play him and MSU can't play him either until he settles that issue monetarily. Depending on the kind of benefit he received he may be suspended for X number of games. After one year he's gone to NBA probably. Did we just see the writing on the wall that we might have only had him for a partial season and let him leave?

For all we know Mick might be the one that caught the improper benefit issue.

[Bcat]

I really doubt their is a LOI at this point. I am sure Mississippi State would have checked into this before hand, because it is a big no-no to recruit someone who signed a LOI. I am just being realistic.

There is a LOI signed by Reik at UC. He signed!!

Now if he was on their campus, then it is a huge recruiting violation which would not surprise me but also would have been reported. There is nothing official form Miss St. about a signing and nobody is claiming he was at the school this weekend. Serious violation if he was or if he signed with them after he signed with UC on 4/15.

[nolte50uc]

Also why isnt miss. st. rivals page reporting anything?? I would be shocked if John was in a Miss. St. Uniform next year. He may not be a bearcat but if he plays College hoops it will be for us.

UC's rivals page doen't list him as having signed a loi either.

this is some lousy news to close out a weekend.

[bcross]

There is a LOI signed by Reik at UC. He signed!!

Now if he was on their campus, then it is a huge recruiting violation which would not surprise me but also would have been reported. There is nothing official form Miss St. about a signing and nobody is claiming he was at the school this weekend. Serious violation if he was or if he signed with them after he signed with UC on 4/15.

Or maybe he has been released from his LOI for the reasons Lobot mentioned.

I'm not saying he signed with MSU, but he was on their campus this weekend.

[CroninCrazy]

I thought that he was still training in Florida at IMG?

[Nasty Nati 513]

this makes absolutely no sense. BCL said his letter of intent was signed and turned into UC. I am very confused. What is going on?

[Lobot]

this makes absolutely no sense. BCL said his letter of intent was signed and turned into UC. I am very confused. What is going on?

I wonder if Riek doesn't realize that his LOI is a binding contract?

[Thegreatone]

UC's rivals page doen't list him as having signed a loi either.

this is some lousy news to close out a weekend.

Yes it does. Look at his profile. Rivals has it all over that he signed a LOI for UC on 4/15

[CroninCrazy]

It sounds like it is either:

A: Miss St. giving false info

B: Riek will be a Bearcat and play

C: Riek will be a Bearcat and will never play (ineligible)

-----------------

My vote is "B" and I'm not too worried right now about Mississippi State.

[nolte50uc]

Yes it does. Look at his profile. Rivals has it all over that he signed a LOI for UC on 4/15

ok, let me clarify what i saw. on their bball recruiting front page, only kilpatrick is listed as signing. when i go to the commitment page for 2009, again, only kilpatrick is listed.

riek is shown as signed for 2008. is that still legit for this year? i really don't know. my hunch is no, otherwise, why would he supposedly sign again on 4/15?

[Thewhiteboy]

WHO CARES, JUST FIND A BIG GUY TOO COME IN HERE TOO PLAY, ANY BIG GUY. A SCRUBB, A CRIMINAL ANYBODY..............................
sorry i yelled I'm kind of upset about this. Just hope and pray McClain comes ready too play next year.

[Bcat]

Or maybe he has been released from his LOI for the reasons Lobot mentioned.

I'm not saying he signed with MSU, but he was on their campus this weekend.

He has not been released at this point.

Also, the guy (Goodman) from Fox Sports has written in an email that he was told Reik never signed a LOI to UC and is going to sign with MSU. That LOI part is just not true, wherever he is getting it from is a bad or confused source.

So someone at MSU is under the impression Reik does not need to be released b/c he has not signed. Again, not true.

[bcatwilly]

He has not been released at this point.

Also, the guy (Goodman) from Fox Sports has written in an email that he was told Reik never signed a LOI to UC and is going to sign with MSU. That LOI part is just not true, wherever he is getting it from is a bad or confused source.

So someone at MSU is under the impression Reik does not need to be released b/c he has not signed. Again, not true.

He better not be freakin' released IF he actually did sign an official LOI, or we are complete idiots.

[CincyBeerCo]

So.....?!?!?!? Bearcat Digest (official monthly UCATS/Atheletics publication) in its most recent issue, explicitly stated that Riek had already SIGNED.
So based upon my knowledge and assuming that UC would not allow this to be written in their Bearcat Digest if it were not 100% accurate, there are only 3 options:
1) This report is wrong
2) Riek asked for and was granted a release from his signed LOI
3) There are very real improper benefit issues (or some other concern) that scared the UC staff, and they released Riek.

Hmmm... No idea, but I am very confused/skeptical/concerned/weirded out.

[Carin's Dad]

ok, let me clarify what i saw. on their bball recruiting front page, only kilpatrick is listed as signing. when i go to the commitment page for 2009, again, only kilpatrick is listed.

riek is shown as signed for 2008. is that still legit for this year? i really don't know. my hunch is no, otherwise, why would he supposedly sign again on 4/15?Riek did not sign a LOI last year - just a one-year scholarship agreement, which, since he never enrolled, has expired. He has been a free agent since. Let's hope Goodman ends up with egg on his face.

[YouGuessedItFrankStallone]

Looks like I picked the wrong day to quit sniffing glue.

[JohnFrancis]

Here are some explanations for this Riek mess....

1. Perhaps we have underestimated the allure and social & cultural amenities of Starkville, MS.

2. Riek has a doppelganger

3. The press reports meant Wall not Riek

[JasonS]

How many scholarships does Miss. St. have for this year? Haven't they already signed 6 for this year? (Not counting Riek if that is indeed true)

[BearcatAlum1]

This will be very interesting. If true, this will be a big blow. While not crippling, it would cause an uproar from UC fans.

There is something seriously wrong with what is going on......

Sidney doesn't sign his LOI to USC at the last minute and picks Miss St?

Riek was "reported" to have signed his LOI with UC, then he is "set to sign a LOI with Miss. St."

Forget Riek, someone needs to investigate MissSt and see what the he!! is going on down there....


BearcatAlum1

[cincycpaw]

This will be very interesting. If true, this will be a big blow. While not crippling, it would cause an uproar from UC fans.

There is something seriously wrong with what is going on......

Sidney doesn't sign his LOI to USC at the last minute and picks Miss St?

Riek was "reported" to have signed his LOI with UC, then he is "set to sign a LOI with Miss. St."

Forget Riek, someone needs to investigate MissSt and see what the he!! is going on down there....


BearcatAlum1

If true, Mick should investigate MSU...since they can seal the deal...or maybe for an assistant's position...I'm pissed.

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

This will be very interesting. If true, this will be a big blow. While not crippling, it would cause an uproar from UC fans.

There is something seriously wrong with what is going on......

Sidney doesn't sign his LOI to USC at the last minute and picks Miss St?

Riek was "reported" to have signed his LOI with UC, then he is "set to sign a LOI with Miss. St."

Forget Riek, someone needs to investigate MissSt and see what the he!! is going on down there....


BearcatAlum1

There is no proof that Riek signed LOI with UC this spring.

Sidney verballed to USC earlier in 2009 but changed his mind.

[Bearcat Jeff]

Well, nobody can be mad at Mick. It was everybody on this board that said Riek was here, not the school. I will be very upset if he doesn't sign a couple guys this spring though. If he whiffs than I will start leaning to the camp that says Mick may not be the guy.

[Not Guilty]

There is no proof that Riek signed LOI with UC this spring.

Bearcat Lair reported his papers were in. So there is false information out there somewhere.

[Bearcat Jeff]

Maybe from BCL?

[catscratchfever]

Bearcat Lair reported his papers were in. So there is false information out there somewhere.
This would be a huuuge hit to the credibility of bearcat lair if this is true.

[Not Guilty]

Maybe from BCL?

Yeah, possibly. I don't know at this point. It should sort itself out and we will find out what exactly happened.

[joe]

TA DA!!!!

http://sechoopsgoodbaddirty.wordpress.com/2009/05/03/mississippi-state-adds-john-riek/


<ahem> Bwaahahahahahahah <pause - sniff > Bwahahahahahah! At least UC doesn't have to find a space for that National Championship trophy huh Ralph? I don't have it in me to laugh anymore. Gotta love it.

gregg

[Doss]

vacation or suicide watch?

<ahem> Bwaahahahahahahah <pause - sniff > Bwahahahahahah! At least UC doesn't have to find a space for that National Championship trophy huh Ralph? I don't have it in me to laugh anymore. Gotta love it.

gregg

[Joe_Pong]

Sounds likethe most likely scenario is that UC committed some sort of recruiting violations so Riek will not be allowed to play at UC. Sort of like how Damon Flint had signed with Ohio State but could not play there due to recruiting violations so he ended up at UC.

[JasonS]

Sounds likethe most likely scenario is that UC committed some sort of recruiting violations so Riek will not be allowed to play at UC. Sort of like how Damon Flint had signed with Ohio State but could not play there due to recruiting violations so he ended up at UC.

Nothing like spreading unsubstantiated rumors :rolleyes:

Dude, if you are going to try to start rumors about UC recruiting violations, at least have some credible article that can back you up. All you do is bash UC. Not sure why you even post here.

[Eta Rho]

There seems to be a lot of confusion from Cincinnati fans - this is to clarify…Riek signed a Letter of Intent in 2008, but then attended prep school, which releases him from the contract. He is cleanly on the market, and seems to have committed to Mississippi State. He has been confirmed as having been on campus at MSU this past weekend.

http://sechoopsgoodbaddirty.wordpress.com/2009/05/03/mississippi-state-adds-john-riek/

[MDW79]

Nothing like spreading unsubstantiated rumors :rolleyes:

Dude, if you are going to try to start rumors about UC recruiting violations, at least have some credible article that can back you up. All you do is bash UC. Not sure why you even post here.

Agreed............................................ .....

[mboston67]

From what I understand, he never signed a LOI in 08, he signed a financial aid agreement. Might be splitting hairs here, but hopefully that helps debunk that story somewhat. BCL reports he signed a LOI april 15th. So if this all is indeed true, someone has some explaining to do.

[Joe_Pong]

Nothing like spreading unsubstantiated rumors :rolleyes:

Dude, if you are going to try to start rumors about UC recruiting violations, at least have some credible article that can back you up. All you do is bash UC. Not sure why you even post here.


I am not the one who started all the speculation about possible recruiting violations by various schools on this thread.

[Joe_Pong]

Is it possible that we released him from his paperwork after finding out about the improper benefits?

This is the guy that started the "unsubstantiated rumors" and speculation regarding violations.

It just seems to me that if and improper benefits were received, UC would be the most probable perpetrator, since we have been most connected to him. If that was the case, it makes sense why he would go to another school since he would not be allowed to play here.

[Scheids21]

I guess the surprise was...were not getting any players? Surprised me....

[Bcat]

There seems to be a lot of confusion from Cincinnati fans - this is to clarify…Riek signed a Letter of Intent in 2008, but then attended prep school, which releases him from the contract. He is cleanly on the market, and seems to have committed to Mississippi State. He has been confirmed as having been on campus at MSU this past weekend.

http://sechoopsgoodbaddirty.wordpress.com/2009/05/03/mississippi-state-adds-john-riek/

Chief,

Riek was at IMG before he first committed to UC. This has nothing to do with what he did last fall. This LOI was turned in on 4/15/09. There is now nothing clear about this. That is why NOBODY has a clue what is going on or why this change in events MIGHT have happened.

Yeah, I dropped a Chief on you.

[Jose_Jalapeno_on_a_Stick]

This is the guy that started the "unsubstantiated rumors" and speculation regarding violations.

It just seems to me that if and improper benefits were received, UC would be the most probable perpetrator, since we have been most connected to him. If that was the case, it makes sense why he would go to another school since he would not be allowed to play here.

That possibility has actually crossed my mind, as well.

[Major ----de Coverley]

Looks like I picked the wrong day to quit sniffing glue.


That made me laugh so hard that a tuscan truffle shot out of my nose. While I am slightly disheartened by the "news" on Riek, the deus ex machina he represented did have a fable like quality all along. During times like these it is best to take a few deep breaths, sip ones espresso and turn to the business section of the paper, oops maybe comics.

[London 'Cat]

Well, the only way I can think of to confirm whether UC has a signed LOI from Riek is to make a public records request under Ohio Revised Code section 149.43. If they have it, they must allow you to inspect it, at a minimum, and make a copy. Then we could put this to rest.

[slimm]

never mind

[DMoney_70]

It seems to me that if the Riek LOI was wrong all along, Mick could have gotten the word out somehow. Something happened between now and then.

[Bearcat Cafe]

The freaking Scout thread got locked with a note that it was just a bogus rumor.

[DMoney_70]

The freaking Scout thread got locked with a note that it was just a bogus rumor.

Forgive me if I'm ignorant. What thread are you talking about?

Also, if Riek had signed, Mick is free discuss him, correct? All this concern over how many press conferences is a side issue, right? We have heard nothing from Mick's end about confirmation of Riek signing. The silence is deafening.

[Bearcat Cafe]

Go to their board. You need to sign up for a free membership to access. Seems the guy from Fox may have been taking his cue from internet postings. The quest for scoop....posting rumors of other guys posting rumors.

[Bearcat Cafe]

Good Lord. Now zagsblog is posting Reik to MSU. Who the **** knows at this point.

[Not Guilty]

Good Lord. Now zagsblog is posting Reik to MSU. Who the **** knows at this point.

He is reporting what Goodman wrote and said someone at IMG was not available for comment.

[Bearcat Jeff]

Well this will be interesting. Especially with the questioning and bashing that has been going on. This just points out very clearly that none of us know what goes on out on the recruiting trail. We just over react to it one way or the other.

[catsfan32]

i'm not believing any of this. These supposed "sports reporters" are now reporting rumors as their news stories. I'll believe anything on Riek going to MSU when every legitimate scouting site has him going there and can confirm his LOI! I think he is a bearcat and i'm not worried!

[Bearcat Cafe]

As of right now, neither Scout nor Rivals has Reik listed anywhere....even as a prospect. That seems odd for something to be a "done deal" and not even have the player in the pay site databases as being on the radar. This is a strange one.

[Bearcat Cafe]

He is reporting what Goodman wrote and said someone at IMG was not available for comment.


I agree. Thought it read like a poor attempt to cover up plagarism in a high school class report.

[Thegreatone]

I agree catsfan32, I dont buy it. Why hasnt any major site reported this?? Miss. St. rivals page should have something right??

Something weird is happening obviously. I am still going with UC has a signed LOI because I have no reason to believe the crediable sources are lieing.

[Not Guilty]

Why hasnt any major site reported this?? Miss. St. rivals page should have something right??


The thing that makes this weird is that Goodman at Fox Sports is pretty major. I don't read him much, so maybe his reputation is really bad, but he has to be getting his information from somewhere and you would think it would be somewhere besides a message board. Who knows though at this point. Everything doesn't add up.

[Bearcat Jeff]

This sprung out of something. Who knows what though. I wouldn't mind holding one scholly for '10 but not 2.

[HeThun]

I picked what is proving to be a most interesting time to join the forums.

Just remember that at this point in time we have heard nothing from those actually involved in this process. No one at UC, no one at Miss St, no one from IMG and not from Riek.

Let the panic continue.

[Thegreatone]

Go to their board. You need to sign up for a free membership to access. Seems the guy from Fox may have been taking his cue from internet postings. The quest for scoop....posting rumors of other guys posting rumors.

I went to their recruiting page and see nothing on the headlines about it being a rumor?

[TmacGoCats]

http://sechoopsgoodbaddirty.wordpress.com/2009/05/04/john-riek-contraversy/

John Riek contraversy…

Posted by hoopsknowitall on May 4, 2009

Apparently, there is a great deal of confusion surrounding John Riek’s supposed commitment to MSU. Rivals reports that Riek signed a Letter of Intention, which is binding, on April 15 of this year. However, Scout reports that Riek has not signed with anyone, and the school never published any release regarding Riek.

The most likely scenario here is that a source close to Riek believed he had the intention of signing with Cincinnati, and thus leaked it to Rivals, who went with the story. I suspect there was simply no signature or papers, or Rick Stansbury wouldn’t have been recruiting Riek knowing the potential punishments and bad PR. In addition, every school publishes a release after a commitment signs - and no doubt when one as highly regarded as Riek does - and thus all signs seem to point to a fair and clean MSU commitment.

No official word has come from either department outside of Fox Sports, although many sources confirm Riek was on campus at MSU this weekend.

I’ll keep everyone updated as this situation unfolds.

[Not Guilty]

http://sechoopsgoodbaddirty.wordpress.com/2009/05/04/john-riek-contraversy/

John Riek contraversy…

Posted by hoopsknowitall on May 4, 2009

Apparently, there is a great deal of confusion surrounding John Riek’s supposed commitment to MSU. Rivals reports that Riek signed a Letter of Intention, which is binding, on April 15 of this year. However, Scout reports that Riek has not signed with anyone, and the school never published any release regarding Riek.

The most likely scenario here is that a source close to Riek believed he had the intention of signing with Cincinnati, and thus leaked it to Rivals, who went with the story. I suspect there was simply no signature or papers, or Rick Stansbury wouldn’t have been recruiting Riek knowing the potential punishments and bad PR. In addition, every school publishes a release after a commitment signs - and no doubt when one as highly regarded as Riek does - and thus all signs seem to point to a fair and clean MSU commitment.

No official word has come from either department outside of Fox Sports, although many sources confirm Riek was on campus at MSU this weekend.

I’ll keep everyone updated as this situation unfolds.

That guy is guessing and really doesn't know one way or the other.

[Not Guilty]

http://blog.imgacademies.com/2009/04/17/img-basketballs-john-riek-heading-to-u-of-cincinnati/

This is from IMG and was posted on April 17th. It doesn't say he signed, but this situation just doesn't make sense.

[Bearcat Jeff]

Seems like BCL would come out with some kind of public statement. They reported that the papers were in. I would think they would want to set the record straight publicly.

[DMoney_70]

Meanwhile, complete silence from the school. If he was signed, they would be allowed to say something.

[bearcatbret]

The school is only allowed to make one comment. They typically wait until their entire recruiting is completed. That is why you have not heard anything from UC or XU.

[Montrell]

LOL @ this news. No surprise. I figured Riek would never play for UC.

My problem is how can some site go so far to say a signed LOI has been received when in fact he never signed with anyone?

[DMoney_70]

The school is only allowed to make one comment. They typically wait until their entire recruiting is completed. That is why you have not heard anything from UC or XU.

Maybe one press conference but surely he is allowed to comment on radio interviews and such. I don't believe he has to stay silent about a recruit once he gets an LOI, otherwise coaches wouldn't say, "I can't comment until the player has signed a letter of intent"

You guys are riding that one press conference thing to death because the only other obvious reason for the silence is that NOTHING HAS HAPPENED.

[shaunsimpson]

Maybe one press conference but surely he is allowed to comment on radio interviews and such. I don't believe he has to stay silent about a recruit once he gets an LOI, otherwise coaches wouldn't say, "I can't comment until the player has signed a letter of intent"

You guys are riding that one press conference thing to death because the only other obvious reason for the silence is that NOTHING HAS HAPPENED.

I am not of the opinion that they should just have that press conference for damage control. I doubt that not having their own press conference would deter a kid from coming here this year.

[dutch_harry]

If this is the kind of Kid he is.... who needs him. If he's lying to the Bearcats, he'll be lying to MSU as well.

Good Ridance, get people that want to be here

[Spinal2008]

People keep saying that rivals has Riek listed as signing his LOI on 4/15/09 but all I'm seeing on their site is that he signed back on 8/2/08.

http://basketballrecruiting.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=2&pr_key=63042

[shaunsimpson]

If this is the kind of Kid he is.... who needs him. If he's lying to the Bearcats, he'll be lying to MSU as well.

Good Ridance, get people that want to be here

Don't underestimate that this kid may not know enough about the system and has a group of people around him that could be giving him very poor advice.

[Carin's Dad]

Did anyone stop to consider that this whole thing was started by MSU's version of the_one_32?

[RobPoppeil]

Don't underestimate that this kid may not know enough about the system and has a group of people around him that could be giving him very poor advice.

Of course if the rumors are true then he hasn't signed a LOI which means he isn't doing anything wrong at all.

[jkwuc89]

This whole Riek saga is yet another reason why I don't follow recruiting all that much. Too much "he said, she said" and way too many "anonymous sources close to the program". I bet that if I put up an official sounding/looking UC blog that stated that Riek signed with UC today, some supposed news organization would pick up on it and report it as fact.

[Eta Rho]

I'm pretty good friends with one of the guys who works for UC's rivals recruiting site and here is what he had to say on why there was never an official press release of Reik signing:

You only get one signing period press release and UC was holding out to see what they could add to the class. I have been told by people inside the UC program that they have the LOI, so that's all I can go on there...

As far as why the LOI signing date was never updated on Rivals...there was never an official press release, which is why the signing date still says 8/2/08 rather than 4/15/09.

[JasonS]

I have a strange feeling that Riek to Miss. St. is not going to happen. I don't know why I think this other than there is nothing official on any website that even remotely links Riek and Miss. St. Everything mentioned on any website is pure speculation and comes from the same rumor source, or so it appears.

With all the Renaldo Sydney articles out there, I would think someone would have mentioned Miss St. bringing Riek on as well. I think there is a higher probability that he plays for UC than Miss. St. Again, this is just my opinion based on my gut feeling at this point.

[DMoney_70]

Mick doesn't have to wait to comment if a guy is signed, right? He may only be allowed one press conference but Calipari has already commented on recruits and he's not done yet or held his press conference, either. The complete lack of comment from UC is worrisome.

[Lobot]

http://sechoopsgoodbaddirty.wordpress.com/2009/05/04/john-riek-contraversy/

John Riek contraversy…

Posted by hoopsknowitall on May 4, 2009

Apparently, there is a great deal of confusion surrounding John Riek’s supposed commitment to MSU. Rivals reports that Riek signed a Letter of Intention, which is binding, on April 15 of this year. However, Scout reports that Riek has not signed with anyone, and the school never published any release regarding Riek.

The most likely scenario here is that a source close to Riek believed he had the intention of signing with Cincinnati, and thus leaked it to Rivals, who went with the story. I suspect there was simply no signature or papers, or Rick Stansbury wouldn’t have been recruiting Riek knowing the potential punishments and bad PR. In addition, every school publishes a release after a commitment signs - and no doubt when one as highly regarded as Riek does - and thus all signs seem to point to a fair and clean MSU commitment.

No official word has come from either department outside of Fox Sports, although many sources confirm Riek was on campus at MSU this weekend.

I’ll keep everyone updated as this situation unfolds.

This is interesting because a "hoopsknowitall" joined our board last night while we were talking about this.

[Carin's Dad]

There is a story appearing this morning that USC rescinded their Sidney offer over some money issues, so he signed at MSU. Could Riek fall into the same situation? Mick rescinded his offer to Riek over money issues?

[Lobot]

If Riek is asking for money, he's not playing anywhere.

[Not Guilty]

Mick doesn't have to wait to comment if a guy is signed, right? He may only be allowed one press conference but Calipari has already commented on recruits and he's not done yet or held his press conference, either. The complete lack of comment from UC is worrisome.

They never comment on things though. Its not worrisome if its more of the same.

[Carin's Dad]

They never comment on things though. Its not worrisome if its more of the same.I think they announced Kilpatrick's signing. This was done before Mick was done recruiting wasn't it?

[catscratchfever]

They never comment on things though. Its not worrisome if its more of the same.

Bingo! While it may not be an NCAA regulation that is keeping UC silent, we all have to realize that this is nothing new for Mick and the university. Mick is well known for playing things extremely close to the vest, so it is no surprise that we are seeing more of the same.
I may be completely mistaking on this, but has Mick even said anything public about Kilpatrick?

[Lobot]

Courtesy of Bearcat Cafe in another thread. MSU's board locked the Riek thread stating it's an untrue rumor.

http://forums.bearcatnews.com/showthread.php?p=79301#post79301

[Ran513]

after spending pretty much all night trying to find some concrete evidence, i have yet to find anything supporting this "story". Miss St signed 5 players including Sidney, while only loosing 2 players. I went over their roster and i dont believe they have a scholly to even offer. The craziest part is that i went to the schools website and every website i could find associated with the school, not one mention of the kid. The last visit they had was Sidney. I can find nothing about violations for that matter . Miss St has made their anouncement about the incoming class, no Riek. Take it for what its worth, but untill i can find where they even mention him associated( could not find either) with Miss St. im not buying this story.

[Carin's Dad]

11/21/08: "Sean Kilpatrick, a native of White Plains, N.Y., signed a national letter of intent during the first week of the early signing period to play for the UC next year. Kilpatrick, a 6-foot-5 guard/forward was a three-time all-league and all-section selection at White Plains Senior High School and was the school's second-leading scorer. He averaged 25.6 ppg as a senior. He is is playing for Notre Dame Prep in Fitchburg, Mass., this season and is averaged 23.0 ppg in his first five games." - UC Press Release

[JordanW]

I hope that's the case Lobot. Why the heck did so many people say he was seen on campus down there?

[Kindog202]

I think they announced Kilpatrick's signing. This was done before Mick was done recruiting wasn't it?

Kilpatrick signed during the early signing period and it was announced during the early signing period. I believe a school can have only one official announcement per period.

[JasonS]

I think they announced Kilpatrick's signing. This was done before Mick was done recruiting wasn't it?

I believe, at the time, UC only had 1 scholarship to give so as soon as Kilpatrick signed, Mick and company were essentially done for that recruiting period. Mick wouldn't have been done with just Riek during this signing period. I believe that is the difference between the two.

[DMoney_70]

11/21/08: "Sean Kilpatrick, a native of White Plains, N.Y., signed a national letter of intent during the first week of the early signing period to play for the UC next year. Kilpatrick, a 6-foot-5 guard/forward was a three-time all-league and all-section selection at White Plains Senior High School and was the school's second-leading scorer. He averaged 25.6 ppg as a senior. He is is playing for Notre Dame Prep in Fitchburg, Mass., this season and is averaged 23.0 ppg in his first five games." - UC Press Release

EXACTLY. Why haven't we seen this for Riek? Something like this would kill that rumor dead in it's tracks. If it's a rumor.

[Carin's Dad]

Kilpatrick signed during the early signing period and it was announced during the early signing period. I believe a school can have only one official announcement per period.They can issue as many press releases as they want. They can have only one press conference.

[DMoney_70]

I believe, at the time, UC only had 1 scholarship to give so as soon as Kilpatrick signed, Mick and company were essentially done for that recruiting period. Mick wouldn't have been done with just Riek during this signing period. I believe that is the difference between the two.

OK. That's plausible. Thanks. I'm not trying to argue. I'm hoping the silence means nothing but with this latest rumor coming out, I wondered why we hadn't heard anything.

[JasonS]

OK. That's plausible. Thanks. I'm not trying to argue. I'm hoping the silence means nothing but with this latest rumor coming out, I wondered why we hadn't heard anything.

Like you, I wish UC would just come out and say he is signed if he indeed is. I hope that there is nothing to worry about but I guess we will find out at some point soon.

[Carin's Dad]

Mick issued multiple press releases last year. He announced recruits as they were signed. Is he playing it "close-to-the-vest" or does he just have nothing to announce?

[DelhiBearcat]

So we're waiting to hold a press conference for the chance Mick may add a JUCO back-up? LOL. We aren't adding anyone "press conference worthy" unless teams back off Wall after his recent problems and we make a push. Let's make the announcement now... unless there's nothing to announce.

[Bearcat_DF]

UC can't really comment if he didn't sign a LOI can they?

I bet if Ran513 did the same type of search of the official UC websites, he will find the same information about Riek.

[DMoney_70]

Mick issued multiple press releases last year. He announced recruits as they were signed. Is he playing it "close-to-the-vest" or does he just have nothing to announce?

That's the million dollar question. This all just came out of the blue.

[catscratchfever]

11/21/08: "Sean Kilpatrick, a native of White Plains, N.Y., signed a national letter of intent during the first week of the early signing period to play for the UC next year. Kilpatrick, a 6-foot-5 guard/forward was a three-time all-league and all-section selection at White Plains Senior High School and was the school's second-leading scorer. He averaged 25.6 ppg as a senior. He is is playing for Notre Dame Prep in Fitchburg, Mass., this season and is averaged 23.0 ppg in his first five games." - UC Press Release

Thanks for the correction! I didn't remember that...

[Ran513]

UC can't really comment if he didn't sign a LOI can they?

I bet if Ran513 did the same type of search of the official UC websites, he will find the same information about Riek.question my search all you want, hate it love it i could care less. i was just reporting what i found about the rumor, nothing.

[Thegreatone]

This rumor is starting to die. More and more is coming out and it looks more and more like he will not be at MSU.

[Lobot]

For starters if I'm MSU and I just pulled a rabbit out of my hat, I issue a press release unless he hasn't signed yet.

[ucfan1980]

Post from the source of the original "Riek Signed, 4/15/09" source.

Hoping to end everyones panic today, but please read...

I have removed the actual text from BCL, but just for those who havent read, the site admin at Bearcatlair, called someone at UC and confirmed that UC did indeed receive the LOI on April 15th. The source is also not aware of Riek being released in any way.

[waterhead]

Maybe the reason Mick isn't talking about Riek is because he hasn't officially been cleared on everything? You can't send a press release if you aren't sure of what to release. LOI is one thing but if that LOI doesn't mean squat in the end...what's the point? They did that last year.

[Thegreatone]

Multiple people thats job is to follow MSU recruiting have shot down this rumor. Not sure what to make of it because something is obviously going on. I believe he was there but I also believe he will be at UC.

[Carin's Dad]

Maybe the reason Mick isn't talking about Riek is because he hasn't officially been cleared on everything? You can't send a press release if you aren't sure of what to release. LOI is one thing but if that LOI doesn't mean squat in the end...what's the point? They did that last year.Last year they announced Riek's (scholarship) signing:

Aug. 12, 2008

CINCINNATI - University of Cincinnati head men's basketball coach Mick Cronin announced today John Riek, a 7-foot-1 center from the Sudan, has signed a financial aid agreement with the Bearcats and he intends to join the team for the 2008-09 season.

[Lobot]

Just a friendly reminder. Do not cut and paste info from BCL to this board. It is a copyright violation. That info belongs to BCL. Doing this gets us in hot water with BCL and also gets BCL account holders in hot water with BCL as well.

Cut and pasted info like this will be taken down at BCL's request.

So, discuss it while it's still posted.

[ralph1950]

Tyreke Evans transferring form Memphis to UC.

[Bearcat Cafe]

Release Riek if he wants, because I don't want anyone who doesn't want to be here....but I'd sure as **** stipulate that Stansbury is on the no dice list for tampering with a recruit who had signed a LOI.

[bearcatbret]

I found this link about the preseason analysis of UC basketball. I think that it is positive but says what we all learned.
http://www.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/6365452/11193436

This is the official press release from August about John Riek.
http://www.gobearcats.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/081208aaa.html
I am confused about the difference between fall signing and spring signing. However, I believe that since Riek was the only player that was signed in August for the 2008-2009 season that they had the official press release.

[waterhead]

Last year they announced Riek's (scholarship) signing:

Yes, but the point was that kind of back fired. Maybe Mick doesn't want to do that again.

[dp3113]

BCL reporting "UC walked away from Reik"

questions of eligibility, health, and ability to handle coursework

[jplog]

Hernol Hall all over again. Mick should stay away from these kids from overseas.

[Bearcat Cafe]

If a storm was brewing, better to cut bait now, I guess.

[CincyBeerCo]

Argh.....sorry Ralph :rolleyes:

[Eta Rho]

HERE IS THE OFFICIAL REPORT ON JOHN REIK:

UC walked away from Riek. Too much baggage, and that's what put him back on the market. If he ever gets past the NCAA he will be at MSU...

The above information came from one of UC's head recruiting coordinators, so consider it solid information..

[JasonS]

Last year they announced Riek's (scholarship) signing:

Aug. 12, 2008

CINCINNATI - University of Cincinnati head men's basketball coach Mick Cronin announced today John Riek, a 7-foot-1 center from the Sudan, has signed a financial aid agreement with the Bearcats and he intends to join the team for the 2008-09 season.

Mick has always waited to announce signings during a signing period until he has every LOI he expects for that period. You can't compare the Riek announcement last year because it happened in August and was not part of the signing period. Mick would not be waiting for anything more so he would announce the signing right away. If someone signs after May 20th this year, Mick will announce the signing through a press release like he did with Riek last year. Nothing new there.

[behrlezt]

UC is in big trouble....the lack of recruiting is killing us...

[bearcatbret]

UC is in big trouble....the lack of recruiting is killing us...

Or the lack of knowing our recruiting is killing you :)

[DelhiBearcat]

I think he had it right the first time.

[Eta Rho]

The official release is typically the one that has direct quotes from the coach about each player. There can be other much more simplified releases that don't go into any detail other than the player has signed, such as the release about Reik.

[HeThun]

We have a letter of intent but Riek will not come to UC.

[Eta Rho]

We have a letter of intent but Riek will not come to UC.

Wrong...UC walked away from Reik and released him because of the baggage that was going to come with him.

[Lobot]

Wrong...UC walked away from Reik and released him because of the baggage that was going to come with him.

So was I correct in guessing that his improper benefits issue would have only given us a partial year?

Better yet did anyone ever figure what the improper benefit was?

[Pie Hole]

I guess this explains why Biggie suddenly decided (or was convinced) to stay.

[dp3113]

PS- I don't believe this was over "health" or "ability to pass classes" as BCL put it....this definitely had to do with clearing house issues over benefits or his past few years in the states....otherwise, there is no reason UC would have signed him TWICE and not taken a waiver on a 7'2" guy for at least a year....there is no way this is over classes at UC and health

[JasonS]

So was I correct in guessing that his improper benefits issue would have only given us a partial year?

Better yet did anyone ever figure what the improper benefit was?

I wonder if we will ever really figure out what happened here. My guess is Riek doesn't play college basketball at all and thus we will never see what would have happened.

If I had to guess, I would think that some shady people got to the kid and may have jeapordized his amateur status. I bet it was a crap shoot as best as to whether the NCAA would ever let him play in a game. Add in the fact that he may not be 100% and Mick didn't want to wait around to find out. I think that is a smart move (the waiting around part) if it happens to be correct.

[JasonS]

PS- I don't believe this was over "health" or "ability to pass classes" as BCL put it....this definitely had to do with clearing house issues over benefits or his past few years in the states....otherwise, there is no reason UC would have signed him TWICE and not taken a waiver on a 7'2" guy for at least a year....there is no way this is over classes at UC and health

It could be partly over classes and health because if he doesn't pass classes, he isn't going to play anyway. Plus, it would hurt the APR score. You have to take calculated risks in college basketball nowadays, and maybe Mick felt the risk was way too high given the likelihood of the possible reward.

[ME80]

Tyreke Evans transferring form Memphis to UC.

Ralph, With all the back and forth sky is falling on this board I am starting to enjoy your humor!

[Montrell]

PS- I don't believe this was over "health" or "ability to pass classes" as BCL put it....this definitely had to do with clearing house issues over benefits or his past few years in the states....otherwise, there is no reason UC would have signed him TWICE and not taken a waiver on a 7'2" guy for at least a year....there is no way this is over classes at UC and health

I agree. That doesn't add up at all. Something wrong went on here. UC either committed recruiting violations or someone on this kid's side committed some serious violations. Either way, this basketball program is a mess and the future is rather bleak in my opinion.

[Doss]

Does anyone know Ralph?

If you do call him. We are worried about his well being since he has not posted since the Riek to MSU was made public.

I think we need an around the clock "suicide watch" on Ralph.

Ralph please post so we know you are OK. Remember your Tier1 seats still allow a great view of Biggie roaring down the floor, catching a lob pass and making a Thunder Dunk! as Dickie V. hollers "He's a PTP'er"

[ralph1950]

Does anyone know Ralph?

If you do call him. We are worried about his well being since he has not posted since the Riek to MSU was made public.

I think we need an around the clock "suicide watch" on Ralph.

Ralph please post so we know you are OK. Remember your Tier1 seats still allow a great view of Biggie roaring down the floor, catching a lob pass and making a Thunder Dunk! as Dickie V. hollers "He's a PTP'er"

You missed my post that Tyreke Evans is transferring from Memphis to UC.

[Richard_Head]

It would have been a good question to ask as long as he was on the phone if Riek had been released other than just saying he wasn't aware of Riek being released. He could have said that Riek has not been released from his LOI yet. Or even better..."was Riek asking to be released" would have been a real good question.

Bearcatlair is reporting that UC never turned in the LOI giving him the option to walk away looks like he is as good as gone.

[JasonS]

I agree. That doesn't add up at all. Something wrong went on here. UC either committed recruiting violations or someone on this kid's side committed some serious violations. Either way, this basketball program is a mess and the future is rather bleak in my opinion.

I have not heard anything suggesting recruiting violations on UC's part except by a couple posters on this site. I think that is a bit of a stretch at this point. Let's save "the sky is falling" posts for when there is really something to be upset about.

[Nerf]

You missed my post that Tyreke Evans is transferring from Memphis to UC.

You really know how to put a damper on his delightful trolling.

[Montrell]

I have not heard anything suggesting recruiting violations on UC's part except by a couple posters on this site. I think that is a bit of a stretch at this point. Let's save "the sky is falling" posts for when there is really something to be upset about.

I'm not even upset. Bad news like this has happened constantly over the last number of years inside the basketball program. It is to the point where this kind of stuff is expected and the real surprise is if a guy who signs with UC actually 1) ever takes the floor and if he does...he 2) is actually a Big East caliber player.

[Cats4Ever]

http://cincinnati.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=942587

free update -

[HeThun]

Wrong...UC walked away from Reik and released him because of the baggage that was going to come with him.

We sign the guy after a two year relationship and discover he has "baggage"?

Two years to figure things out?

My guess. The University refused to accept him, and the staff had to tear the LOI up.

Either way, we had better hope McClain has an awakening over the summer, better yet, a metamorphosis.

[dp3113]

It could be partly over classes and health because if he doesn't pass classes, he isn't going to play anyway. Plus, it would hurt the APR score. You have to take calculated risks in college basketball nowadays, and maybe Mick felt the risk was way too high given the likelihood of the possible reward.

this is major college basketball- they can get kids to pass classes if they need to. thats not an issue.

before the "muhammad and white" comparison is brought up- that was different because they altogether stopped going to school their final quarter because they were going to go play pro

[catscratchfever]

this is major college basketball- they can get kids to pass classes if they need to. thats not an issue.

before the "muhammad and white" comparison is brought up- that was different because they altogether stopped going to school their final quarter because they were going to go play pro
White..maybe...Jihad????? Did he really think he had a shot? And before that comparison is disregarded, that was all on Kennedy and his staff. Did they not know that two of their players decided to skip spring quarter?

[bearcatbret]

One thing that you have give MC credit for is keeping his players in class and out of trouble. Same way with the football team.

[CroninCrazy]

White..maybe...Jihad????? Did he really think he had a shot? And before that comparison is disregarded, that was all on Kennedy and his staff. Did they not know that two of their players decided to skip spring quarter?

James White and Jihad BOTH skipped their FINAL EXAMS!

They would have (most likely) passed the class if they took the final, but instead skipped out.

There is a difference between going to class all quarter and missing the most important grade of the class.

[Richard_Head]

So it seems like Riek is gone and we still don't have a backup point gaurd, what now?

[CroninCrazy]

One thing that you have give MC credit for is keeping his players in class and out of trouble. Same way with the football team.

There have been a couple incidents on both teams...

[bearcatbret]

We are no longer in "the Ralph's" conversation of being No1.

[CroninCrazy]

We are no longer in "the Ralph's" conversation of being No1.

Or winning the National Championship!

[Richard_Head]

Bearcatlair is on Lance talking about Riek right now if you want to listen

[Lobot]

For the third time today, DO NOT cut and paste BCL's articles here. It's copyrighted content (even if it's a free article). Paraphrasing or summarizing is fine but don't blatantly paste the article. I've already received 2 complaints from them today.

[catscratchfever]

Any idea who the guy from BCL was referring to when he said that the backup PG situation would be solved in the next week or two, and that UC fans will be pleasantly surprised?

[Richard_Head]

That is the second time I have heard something about a backup point gaurd the UC fans would be happy about and the guy wouldn't say the name. He said we should know in a week or two. After listening to Todd it sounds like UC decided it would be best if Riek go somewhere else not the other way around.

[ucfan1980]

The idea of keeping information on the internet "a secret" is the most ludicris idea in history...

Anybody know what was said? Is paraphrasing BCL on lance's show copyrighted?

[Richard_Head]

Todd basicly said that UC had a LOI but decided not to turn it in. The injury was a huge concern and he has no cartilage left in his knee and he doesn't look like the same player. He said that the UC staff went down and visited him a couple of weeks ago and Riek's people were concerned that UC Freshman standards would give Riek problems so they decided it would be best if he went somewhere else. He also said that UC in on a Point gaurd and it should be annouced ina week or two.

[Lobot]

The idea of keeping information on the internet "a secret" is the most ludicris idea in history...

Anybody know what was said? Is paraphrasing BCL on lance's show copyrighted?

Paraphrase away. And there's a separate thread running on Todd Cunningham being on Lance right now.

[Not Guilty]

Any idea who the guy from BCL was referring to when he said that the backup PG situation would be solved in the next week or two, and that UC fans will be pleasantly surprised?

I don't know the name, but it seems he is an off the radar type guy. That means many on this board will not be pleasantly surprised, at least until the guys prove it on the court.

But, from my perspective, its good to hear UC has a backup in place. With Cash and a backup, next years team should look a lot different.

[Richard_Head]

I don't know the name, but it seems he is an off the radar type guy. That means many on this board will not be pleasantly surprised, at least until the guys prove it on the court.

But, from my perspective, its good to hear UC has a backup in place. With Cash and a backup, next years team should look a lot different.

i'm not sure it is an off the radar guy he said UC fans would like the name. SO, until the name is leaked I guess we are just left to speculate.

[Doss]

Isn't it amazing how after 2 years of heavy recruiting we suddenly decide he has:

1. Medical problems
2. Academic concerns

We used to call that trying to CYA!

SURPRISE!

[Not Guilty]

i'm not sure it is an off the radar guy he said UC fans would like the name. SO, until the name is leaked I guess we are just left to speculate.

I think there is only one name out there that would really impress some Bearcat fans on here. Anyone else and those same people will still complain.

[Richard_Head]

I think there is only one name out there that would really impress some Bearcat fans on here. Anyone else and those same people will still complain.

Your right and I think there are people on here that would complain no matter who it is.

[cincycpaw]

Isn't it amazing how after 2 years of heavy recruiting we suddenly decide he has:

1. Medical problems
2. Academic concerns

We used to call that trying to CYA!

SURPRISE!

Certainly is very fishy...

Mick's used Riek 2 times now as a "great get"...so, other than Yancy, who's Mick's "great gets"? Vaughn for sure. Cashmere maybe. And who after that?

[milfordcats]

Certainly is very fishy...

Mick's used Riek 2 times now as a "great get"...so, other than Yancy, who's Mick's "great gets"? Vaughn for sure. Cashmere maybe. And who after that?

Chane Behnan is another great get.

[cincycpaw]

Chane Behnan is another great get.

Ahhh...true, he is.

All in all though, I'm very unimpressed with Mick's recruiting to this point. And by his own admission, he needs great talent to compete in the Big East.

Still, it's a make or break year for Mick and the 'Cats program.

[Richard_Head]

Ahhh...true, he is.

All in all though, I'm very unimpressed with Mick's recruiting to this point. And by his own admission, he needs great talent to compete in the Big East.

Still, it's a make or break year for Mick and the 'Cats program.

I will hold out judgement on this recruiting class until we hear a name other then Kilpatrick. I want to see who the mystery PG is and how the team plays this season. I do agree this is a make or break year for Mick and it hasn't been a good spring so far.

[bearcatbret]

The first two years of recruiting could be counted as desperation. I think we all need to give Mick a pass for those because he was behind in the game and just had to fill a team. Last year's class was pretty good including Gates, Cash, Dixon and Riek. Other teams are taking chances on Riek so there must be something with him to impress. I think you are all selling Cash and Kilpatrick short. Just the threat of them scoring is going to open up a lot for Gates and Thomas. We will finally have our zone busters.

[ucfan1980]

I will hold out judgement on this recruiting class until we hear a name other then Kilpatrick. I want to see who the mystery PG is and how the team plays this season. I do agree this is a make or break year for Mick and it hasn't been a good spring so far.


Mick will need to get more than 1 excellent recruit a year...we are a team full of off-the-radar type guys...or busted talent. If we want to win a national championship, we will have to recruit the same players that the NC teams do. We arent even going after those guys. Mick will be a 4th year head coach, so he has definately had his "3 years to get back on track" and this seems like it is going to be the worst recruiting class yet. UCATS better hope mick can get it done before May 15. Mick doesnt care what i think, but the university cares about my money.

Money Talks.

[Lobot]

My problem is not so much with Mick but with who's doing our background checks. This is 2 out of the last 3 years we've had a foreign recruit with clearinghouse or eligibility issues. Someone's not doing their homework here. That someone needs to be gone. If it's Mick himself, he dug his own hole.

[Richard_Head]

The first two years of recruiting could be counted as desperation. I think we all need to give Mick a pass for those because he was behind in the game and just had to fill a team. Last year's class was pretty good including Gates, Cash, Dixon and Riek. Other teams are taking chances on Riek so there must be something with him to impress. I think you are all selling Cash and Kilpatrick short. Just the threat of them scoring is going to open up a lot for Gates and Thomas. We will finally have our zone busters.

I'm not selling Cash or Kilpatrick short, I just don't want to see this team go into another year with 1 point gaurd.

[bearcatbret]

I'm not selling Cash or Kilpatrick short, I just don't want to see this team go into another year with 1 point gaurd.

They have another PG and he will be announced in the next week or two.

[JasonS]

My problem is not so much with Mick but with who's doing our background checks. This is 2 out of the last 3 years we've had a foreign recruit with clearinghouse or eligibility issues. Someone's not doing their homework here. That someone needs to be gone. If it's Mick himself, he dug his own hole.

When Mick was hired, I thought he was talking up one of the assistant coaches for being able to get UC the type of foreign player that they never had a chance with before. I don't blame them for Adam H or Hernol Hall because of the circumstance, but Riek is a different story. So far we are 0-for which doesn't do much for the confidence level in the staff.

[cincycpaw]

When Mick was hired, I thought he was talking up one of the assistant coaches for being able to get UC the type of foreign player that they never had a chance with before. I don't blame them for Adam H or Hernol Hall because of the circumstance, but Riek is a different story. So far we are 0-for which doesn't do much for the confidence level in the staff.

Agreed...just like the 'Cats record in March under Cronin. It's getting very old and I'm losing my patience with Mick.

[Richard_Head]

They have another PG and he will be announced in the next week or two.

Yeah I heard that, I'm interested in hearing who it is and if he is a Big East quality point gaurd.

[Carin's Dad]

Mick has always waited to announce signings during a signing period until he has every LOI he expects for that period. You can't compare the Riek announcement last year because it happened in August and was not part of the signing period. Mick would not be waiting for anything more so he would announce the signing right away. If someone signs after May 20th this year, Mick will announce the signing through a press release like he did with Riek last year. Nothing new there.Just to clarify. Riek did not sign an LOI last year. He signed a scholarship agreement. After May 20, there will be no more LOI signings by anybody (for the 2009/10 season). LOI's are not required. After May 20th the only "signings" will be scholarship agreements.

[jadam222]

Certainly is very fishy...

Mick's used Riek 2 times now as a "great get"...so, other than Yancy, who's Mick's "great gets"? Vaughn for sure. Cashmere maybe. And who after that?

Let me put a different spin on this. Say Riek being a top recruit or any top recruit tells you they are coming to your school. You know there are a few things you need to still check out. Do you wait until all your information is in during signing period or do you "lock" the recruit up? That still gives you time to validate everything but you have held off any other suitors. When you dig further into your concerns you then decide to let the recruit go. If you did this upfront, the "bird" would have never been in your hand. John Riek had issues before. Hence, his recruitment was ended before. However, I think you give it a look if it is possible to "seal the deal" with someone of his talents. If later you find it does not fit you let it go. However, if things work out you are golden. So, what is the problem? I think they did the right thing. One other thing. Think about where Riek decided to go next. Where are the other elite programs for this elite recruit? They know what UC knows that is where.

By the way, since I had been a member of this back in the Gooner days, when do I get elevated from Junior member?

[Carin's Dad]

Yeah I heard that, I'm interested in hearing who it is and if he is a Big East quality point gaurd.All the Big East quality point guards have been signed (or aren't interested in UC). So any guard signing will be a mid major quality player who Mick thinks he can coach up. It could happen, but the track record ain't so hot.

[JasonS]

All the Big East quality point guards have been signed (or aren't interested in UC). So any guard signing will be a mid major quality player who Mick thinks he can coach up. It could happen, but the track record ain't so hot.

Since we don't know who the recruit is, how can you possibly speculate the talent level of the player? You should wait until you at least have a name, though it would be better to wait until you actually see him play.

[Mick's Da Man]

UC is not signing anyone in the Rivals top 150 for 2009. That pretty much says it all. And we shouldn't even being talking about top 150 when it comes to the Big East type players you need. We should be talking about top 100 or top 80.

[JasonS]

UC is not signing anyone in the Rivals top 150 for 2009. That pretty much says it all. And we shouldn't even being talking about top 150 when it comes to the Big East type players you need. We should be talking about top 100 or top 80.

Do you know this for sure? I am not saying you are wrong, but I will reserve judgement until I see the final class and then see them play ball on the court.

[Carin's Dad]

Since we don't know who the recruit is, how can you possibly speculate the talent level of the player? You should wait until you at least have a name, though it would be better to wait until you actually see him play.That's a fair criticism. My point is that all the point guards who have been judged by the "professionals" to be worthy of a major conference are gone. It doesn't matter what his name is; he'll be a 3* at best.

Anything can happen once they hit the court, but the odds are that a lower ranked player won't be as good as a higher ranked player. There are always exceptions and, unfortunately, we'll have to hope that whoever Mick signs will be an exception, or will at least have the potential to be "good enough."

[Not Guilty]

UC is not signing anyone in the Rivals top 150 for 2009. That pretty much says it all. And we shouldn't even being talking about top 150 when it comes to the Big East type players you need. We should be talking about top 100 or top 80.

Just so we are clear: Weren't you the one on this website making fun of others for putting too much stock in recruiting rankings just a week or two ago?

And now you are acting like the guy you made fun of....

[JasonS]

That's a fair criticism. My point is that all the point guards who have been judged by the "professionals" to be worthy of a major conference are gone. It doesn't matter what his name is; he'll be a 3* at best.

Anything can happen once they hit the court, but the odds are that a lower ranked player won't be as good as a higher ranked player. There are always exceptions and, unfortunately, we'll have to hope that whoever Mick signs will be an exception, or will at least have the potential to be "good enough."

I think you are probably correct about 3* being the best we can hope for, but until Bledsoe signs or does not qualify, he is still a possibility (though extremely small). Same goes for Stephenson. There are still some big recruits out there so I think it is premature to say, as Mick's da man has said, that we are not going to land them. Strange things have and can happen in recruiting kids. Is it likely, no, but that is why I refuse to comment until all the dominoes have fallen and we see what the class consists of. I will be surprised if Mick lands any of the remaining 5* players out there and sure don't expect him to land them, but you never know.

[Carin's Dad]

I think you are probably correct about 3* being the best we can hope for, but until Bledsoe signs or does not qualify, he is still a possibility (though extremely small). Same goes for Stephenson. There are still some big recruits out there so I think it is premature to say, as Mick's da man has said, that we are not going to land them. Strange things have and can happen in recruiting kids. Is it likely, no, but that is why I refuse to comment until all the dominoes have fallen and we see what the class consists of. I will be surprised if Mick lands any of the remaining 5* players out there and sure don't expect him to land them, but you never know.I do hope Mick has something up his sleeves. Bledsoe could be the big surprise we're all hoping for and Stephenson seems to be running out of options.

I'm sure that Wall is being back-burnered by some schools, which doesn't help with either Bledsoe nor Stephenson.

[richard k.]

My problem is not so much with Mick but with who's doing our background checks. This is 2 out of the last 3 years we've had a foreign recruit with clearinghouse or eligibility issues. Someone's not doing their homework here. That someone needs to be gone. If it's Mick himself, he dug his own hole.

What is funny is that when he hired him Thomas made a point about Mick's "original" type plans to get UC basketball "back" quickly, which was centered around recruiting foreign big men. How's that worked out so far?

[bearcatbret]

Where did the "big surprise" come from? If I recall, Mick had said that he hopes to have some surprises in April.

[Bearcat Jeff]

Where did the "big surprise" come from? If I recall, Mick had said that he hopes to have some surprises in April.

That is what he said. People heard what they wanted to and let their imaginations run wild on them. This team doesn't need a major overhaul. It is returning nearly everyone from an 18 win season and 8 wins in the BEast!! They will address the pg position internally with Cash. Vaughn moves back to sg where he can come off screens and not have to create. Thomas will fill the spot vacated by Williams and look for Wilks to be much better, along with all the 3 year guys next season.

This is not a critical season to have a major pg recruit. The team needs a solid back up. They have multiple irons in the fire for good pg's in '10 and '11. People are missing the forest for the trees here.

[DMoney_70]

I think you are probably correct about 3* being the best we can hope for, but until Bledsoe signs or does not qualify, he is still a possibility (though extremely small). Same goes for Stephenson. There are still some big recruits out there so I think it is premature to say, as Mick's da man has said, that we are not going to land them. Strange things have and can happen in recruiting kids. Is it likely, no, but that is why I refuse to comment until all the dominoes have fallen and we see what the class consists of. I will be surprised if Mick lands any of the remaining 5* players out there and sure don't expect him to land them, but you never know.

I really don't think we should even consider Stephenson for discussion. He has not shown up in any recent articles with Cincinnati even mentioned. On top of that, here's a kid with through-the-roof ability that appears to be seeking out schools instead of the opposite. He's bad news with a bad reputation and a one and done. This is not the kind of recruit you seek to move the program forward.

[DMoney_70]

Where did the "big surprise" come from? If I recall, Mick had said that he hopes to have some surprises in April.

You're right. I got tired of sharing the link to the actual interview podcast because obviously nobody was using it. This is like playing telephone when we were little. He never said BIG SURPRISES. He said he was looking to have SOME surprises for fans on April 15th. That was probably Riek.

Now folks are all upset but I bet come midway through next season when MSU reports that John Riek will not be cleared to play that we will be grateful that Mick didn't waste a scholarship on him.

[Bearcat Jeff]

I said that a couple weeks ago DMoney. Give me a solid back up point and I can live with holding the last scholly if need be. Lytch is still in play as well.

[DMoney_70]

I said that a couple weeks ago DMoney. Give me a solid back up point and I can live with holding the last scholly if need be. Lytch is still in play as well.

I'm with you.

Also, to everyone, I'm not downplaying John Riek (as we assumed he would be) but apparently he is going to have many issues working against his eligibility so our visions of what he was going to do for UC were nothing more than hopefulness. Sometimes I think we're more mad that someone else got him than we are with letting him go. If Todd Cunningham is right, he may never play college ball and that would have done nothing for the program.

[ralph1950]

We are no longer in "the Ralph's" conversation of being No1.

Without Riek UC will not be in the top 25 next season, bummer. How quickly you can go from # 1 to # nothing.

[ralph1950]

I'm with you.

Also, to everyone, I'm not downplaying John Riek (as we assumed he would be) but apparently he is going to have many issues working against his eligibility so our visions of what he was going to do for UC were nothing more than hopefulness. Sometimes I think we're more mad that someone else got him than we are with letting him go. If Todd Cunningham is right, he may never play college ball and that would have done nothing for the program.

When was the last time Todd Cunningham was right about something?

[long suffering UC fan]

Chane Behnan is another great get.

He will be when/if he signs LOI (and apparently UC turns it in), and qualifies. The Riek saga is why great recruiters stand out - they "get" multiple talented players, so that when eventually some don't pan out, for whatever reasons, they still have other 4-5 star recruits that actually see the court. I don't know if UC could've seen the Riek thing turning out like it did, but having NO other highly desired recruits makes it sting much worse than it should have.

[DMoney_70]

When was the last time Todd Cunningham was right about something?

I wouldn't know.

[LongTimer]

That is what he said. People heard what they wanted to and let their imaginations run wild on them. This team doesn't need a major overhaul. It is returning nearly everyone from an 18 win season and 8 wins in the BEast!! They will address the pg position internally with Cash. Vaughn moves back to sg where he can come off screens and not have to create. Thomas will fill the spot vacated by Williams and look for Wilks to be much better, along with all the 3 year guys next season.

This is not a critical season to have a major pg recruit. The team needs a solid back up. They have multiple irons in the fire for good pg's in '10 and '11. People are missing the forest for the trees here.

With or without another PG, we should be fine this year. I expect 22-25 wins this year and hopefully the momentum will shift in our favor and Mick builds us into a powerhouse program. That's the optimistic side of me. I agree, there should be no panic this season. I'm more concerned about future years.

As far as a "big surprise", I think Mick delivered one to us. Losing Reik was certainly a "big surprise"!

[Globe Trotting Cat Fan]

I love the optimism ralph has. So refreshing and...uplifting...;)

[Lobot]

Eye on the ball. We supposedly have a PG/Combo G coming but I'm not saying anything else until we have the LOI in hand based on what happened this week.

[bearcatbret]

http://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?category=blog04&plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3ada6629a0-7bd0-4605-8869-25a20cb5adabPost%3acca12f12-bd45-4033-9709-5821f5887f8a&sid=sitelife.cincinnati.com

Bill Koch is really doing his homework on this one......:rolleyes:

[Bearcat Jeff]

With or without another PG, we should be fine this year. I expect 22-25 wins this year and hopefully the momentum will shift in our favor and Mick builds us into a powerhouse program. That's the optimistic side of me. I agree, there should be no panic this season. I'm more concerned about future years.

As far as a "big surprise", I think Mick delivered one to us. Losing Reik was certainly a "big surprise"!

LT, I can agree with those concerns. I think 09-10 will be fine, but if Mick is going to be around he has to hit a homerun with the recruits next season (for '10-'11). I'm not talking stars by their name. They have to all be good basketball players. Truth is that only time will tell how any recruit pans out.

[JasonS]

LT, I can agree with those concerns. I think 09-10 will be fine, but if Mick is going to be around he has to hit a homerun with the recruits next season (for '10-'11). I'm not talking stars by their name. They have to all be good basketball players. Truth is that only time will tell how any recruit pans out.

I think the reality is that next year's class is the first true class where Mick will have had the same amount of time to recruit as other coaches. I don't count this year because we only had 1 scholarship originally. Next year and the year after are make and break for this program. If Mick can land some top talent, the program will be back in really good shape. Ironically, the success of the team this year could make or break the recruiting of the next two years. Mick needs an NCAA berth and good showing in the tourney this year in a bad way.

[GoBearcats31]

http://www.zagsblog.com/2009/05/06/john-riek-the-next-thabeet-2/#more-16208

Lot of upside for Riek, but one thing stood out from this article:

“Mississippi State made the strongest push,” Barto said. “They kind of had the most minutes available. And it will give him another full year to recover.”

A full year to recover? I don't know that we'd want to have this guy on board to just "recover," then again what else do we have going for us? 2011 class is loaded, so would be nice to grab some talent there (including keeping C.B.), and 2010 is still kinda early so hopefully Mick has some good "surprises."

[bearcatbret]

I am curious who is footing Riek's bills not only for living and for school but for medical rehab. His family is dirt poor and he was brought over to the US by his "guardian". I think maybe UC saw something in this.

[RobPoppeil]

I am curious who is footing Riek's bills not only for living and for school but for medical rehab. His family is dirt poor and he was brought over to the US by his "guardian". I think maybe UC saw something in this.

All of that could be true but it was true last year and earlier when he signed his LOI.

[Lobot]

I am curious who is footing Riek's bills not only for living and for school but for medical rehab. His family is dirt poor and he was brought over to the US by his "guardian". I think maybe UC saw something in this.

I was thinking the same type of thing the other day when I posted that I don't think that Riek will ever play a game of college basketball. The improper benefits issue is going to catch up with him.

[bearcatbret]

I was thinking the same type of thing the other day when I posted that I don't think that Riek will ever play a game of college basketball. The improper benefits issue is going to catch up with him.

Also, wasn't there an issue of his English as a second language? I know that we were all excited about him being a Bearcat and were all upset when he wasn't but I think it may be for the better.

[MicksTheGuy]

This is just stupid. Why would you not send in the paper work? It was worth the chance to wait it out for such a talent. I'm going to be pissed if I have to watch that guy on TV knowing he should have been a Bearcat! What are we going to waste that scholarship on now???? If he doesn't make it through the clearing house then you have it for next season as many have suggested we should do with the scholarship anyway.

[qsilvr2531]

This is just stupid. Why would you not send in the paper work? It was worth the chance to wait it out for such a talent. I'm going to be pissed if I have to watch that guy on TV knowing he should have been a Bearcat! What are we going to waste that scholarship on now???? If he doesn't make it through the clearing house then you have it for next season as many have suggested we should do with the scholarship anyway.

Because if you send in the paperwork and he isn't cleared it a big negative hit on our APR.

[Carin's Dad]

Because if you send in the paperwork and he isn't cleared it a big negative hit on our APR.
I have no reason to question this other than a logical disconnect. How can a kid who never enrolls hurt your APR? It doesn't make sense, but, then again, much about the NCAA doesn't make sense.

[shaunsimpson]

I don't think that he counts against the APR until he enrolls in classes and doesn't finish that quarter or continue in class (1 pt for each).

[bearcatbret]

I don't think that he counts against the APR until he enrolls in classes and doesn't finish that quarter or continue in class (1 pt for each).

I think what you mean is that if he enrolls and attends classes assuming the clearinghouse will clear him only to find out that he has to sit out a year or what ever. That makes him leave school and go to the NBA. Then it counts against the APR. Or something like that.

[ZCat]

By the way, since I had been a member of this back in the Gooner days, when do I get elevated from Junior member?

HaHa I love that! I joined > gooner but long ago enough to know about Zuke, and read enough that I knew names s/a Keith, Richard K, Jon B (later came Mike "i'll dedicate my life to recruiting for a few years"), etc to have my status elevated too LOL! I later played ball with Zuke's brother for a few years. Does that count for a few hundred posts?
Anyone that can prove how much time they previously wasted blogging before there was such a word should be elevated to Super senior member LOL.
Later,
ZCat

[joe]

Looks like I picked the wrong day to quit sniffing glue.

That cracked me up :D

gregg