Anthony Buford on Yancy Gates

[Ding Chavez]

http://onegreatseason.com/home/2010/4/2/part-2-buford-weighs-in-on-final-four-wvu-cincinnati.html

Personally, I'd get rid of some guys. If Yancy Gates plays next year like he did in his first two years ... he should be punishing teams inside. I don't know if he has the motor or the desire to become a great player. And when you bring in new guys who look at his work ethic, what do you think they're going to do? So Yancy is first and (Rashad) Bishop is second. You either have to recruit over and get guys who would be able to send them to the bench, or just get rid of them.

Pretty stinging critique of Yancy, but I can't disagree. Also kind of calls out Bishop. After this and the suspension, it's looking more and more like he's not the "glue guy" he's been advertised.

[MDW79]

Pretty good read, thanks. Part 1 of this interview was really good too.

[DBSUC1982]

You didn't even quote the worst part. He called Gates a "coach killer". That's strong from someone close to the program

[Bearcat John 69]

You didn't even quote the worst part. He called Gates a "coach killer". That's strong from someone close to the program

exactly. get gates off the team mick. addition by subtraction, just like happened at tennessee this year.

overall a great interview with anthony. he didn't pull any punches.
would like to hear more about bishop though. i don't see the same lack of effort/intensity out of bishop as gates so clearly demonstrates.

[richard k.]

You didn't even quote the worst part. He called Gates a "coach killer". That's strong from someone close to the program

Was wondering, when I read that comment, what would Yates' approach to the game be after 2 years under Huggins? No, I don't want to start a Cronin vs. Huggins thread - just curious as to whether anyone believes Yancy would still have the same attitude, and if so, whether he would still be on the team?

[The HFD fan]

That was great reading! I completely agree. If Mick feels somewhat like Buford speaks, then we begin to understand why we are recruiting Ratliffe and Burton. Get rid of the lazy bums and recruit, recruit, recruit.

[Irishbearcat]

Gates a coach-killah?

What does that make Mitchell, Biggie, Davis, Bishop, or Dixon. Those guys may not have the same crappy 'tudes that Bishop/gates. But they all underperformed or seriously hurt the team. Cronin has half a team of coach killers. Got to step it up, or go elsewhere.

[Ding Chavez]

Was wondering, when I read that comment, what would Yates' approach to the game be after 2 years under Huggins? No, I don't want to start a Cronin vs. Huggins thread - just curious as to whether anyone believes Yancy would still have the same attitude, and if so, whether he would still be on the team?

Remember BJ Grove?

And I meant to quote the coach killer part, just didn't highlight far enough :)

[jplog]

Good call on BJ Grove but don't forget Robert Whaley. Some people you just can't reach. ;)

[DBSUC1982]

Was wondering, when I read that comment, what would Yates' approach to the game be after 2 years under Huggins? No, I don't want to start a Cronin vs. Huggins thread - just curious as to whether anyone believes Yancy would still have the same attitude, and if so, whether he would still be on the team?

Honestly,... he'd be a tall Jason Maxiell or at a C-USA school.

[Big B]

Was wondering, when I read that comment, what would Yates' approach to the game be after 2 years under Huggins? No, I don't want to start a Cronin vs. Huggins thread - just curious as to whether anyone believes Yancy would still have the same attitude, and if so, whether he would still be on the team?

Coaches that have played the game usually get more respect from the players. Plus the fact Huggs probably out weighs his butt by 50 lbs.

Perfect example, if Mick let some of the former players talk to these guys they would understand. It's going to mean more from a point guard that played in the final four then a guy that ran a video camera in the final four.

[JordanW]

Was wondering, when I read that comment, what would Yates' approach to the game be after 2 years under Huggins? No, I don't want to start a Cronin vs. Huggins thread - just curious as to whether anyone believes Yancy would still have the same attitude, and if so, whether he would still be on the team?

YANCY friggin' GATES

[ucat4]

I don't know about anyone else, but IMO, Buford would make a damn good assistant coach - he seems to really know his stuff.

That was a great read, and I'm glad that AB didn't pull ANY punches. It was interesting to read his take on the current basketball program.

[Lobot]

Coaches that have played the game usually get more respect from the players. Plus the fact Huggs probably out weighs his butt by 50 lbs.

Perfect example, if Mick let some of the former players talk to these guys they would understand. It's going to mean more from a point guard that played in the final four then a guy that ran a video camera in the final four.

Which is exactly why it will never happen. It would undermine Cronin's credibility and if you have Napoleon complex, you can't have that.

[JGood]

gates is a coach killer unless he figures it out because for success to happen next year gates has to live up to some hype.
he did say cronin is smart and works his a$$ off, maybe too smart for the guys he is coaching. interesting because i know a lot of you that say otherwise but i guess Buford doesnt know what he's talking about. right.
bottom line, cronin needs to change some things up and some players need to MAN the **** UP and play like they are capable.

[MST83]

Seems MC has some tough choices:

1. Continue with YG as is. BAD IDEA.
2. Sit YG ar$e on the bench until he gets it. If he gets tired of it he can work or leave and sit out after next year for a year with one year left.
3. Send him packing now.

We all heard he was lazy in HS. Many thought MC could change that. It hasn't happened after 2 year. Leave him die on the bench.

[nolte50uc]

wow - a lot of yancy-bashing. i don't disagree w/ some of the assesments here, but lets not forget the games where fans were begging MC to get yancy back into the game. he's a talent that needs some real competition to keep hs focus, IMO. i don't think getting rid of him is a good option - getting him someone to compete (legitimately) for playing time should really help keep his focus and his energy up.

[dp3113]

gates is a coach killer unless he figures it out because for success to happen next year gates has to live up to some hype.
he did say cronin is smart and works his a$$ off, maybe too smart for the guys he is coaching. interesting because i know a lot of you that say otherwise but i guess Buford doesnt know what he's talking about. right.
bottom line, cronin needs to change some things up and some players need to MAN the **** UP and play like they are capable.

code for: a lot of the players on the team are incredibly dumb.

[jadam222]

That was great reading! I completely agree. If Mick feels somewhat like Buford speaks, then we begin to understand why we are recruiting Ratliffe and Burton. Get rid of the lazy bums and recruit, recruit, recruit.

If I were a fly on the wall, it would be my guess that Mick expressed those same feeling to Anthony. Remember that interview when Mick made the comment "Yancey is what he is?" I am sure he and the coaches are pulling their remaining hair out. I remember I mentioned at about 1/4 into the season that the biggest disappointment was Gates not Vaughn. I stated the same thing Anthony did, "He should dominate INSIDE." Mick should tell him point blank, "If you want to play you will do it inside. You will not take those 15+ foot jumpers. 80% of your shots better be inside. Either by rebound or thrown to you. DUNK, DUNK, DUNK!!!"

It drives me crazy to see a 260lb 6'9" player putting up "patsy layups." I would sit his arse or cut him. It is a darn shame to have that potential but not seize the opportunity. That is on Yancey. He needs to develop heart and toughness.

[jadam222]

Coaches that have played the game usually get more respect from the players. Plus the fact Huggs probably out weighs his butt by 50 lbs.

Perfect example, if Mick let some of the former players talk to these guys they would understand. It's going to mean more from a point guard that played in the final four then a guy that ran a video camera in the final four.

First Huggs does not out weigh him nor is he as strong or tall. Second, do you mean coaches like Izzo, Krzyzewski or Boheim? Oh yeah, now we get it.

[BearcatAlum1]

Strong words.

I think this tells us more about the player than the coach.

We've all played with or been around kids just like Yancy.

Unfortunately, Buford is right regarding the program. If the kid doesn't buy in, recruit over him with kids that will buy in.

We've got a team that is willing to buy in, but a few of the "veterans" are acting like punks.

Mick's job is on the line, rightful or not doesn't matter. We need players that will produce now and help for next season. We're on a few good ones, but Mick better be able to sell ice to an eskimo.

[jadam222]

wow - a lot of yancy-bashing. i don't disagree w/ some of the assesments here, but lets not forget the games where fans were begging MC to get yancy back into the game. he's a talent that needs some real competition to keep hs focus, IMO. i don't think getting rid of him is a good option - getting him someone to compete (legitimately) for playing time should really help keep his focus and his energy up.

The only reason he is still here is the potential he has. I think Yancey is still used to getting his way. That is slowly changing. If he was seriously trying to get better, then he would be doing what everyone knows he should - playing inside. However, he was still too good a body not to play. He is just operating at about 55% of his capacity. Instead of being a lottery pick after next year, he will be lucky to be a high 2nd pick and again it would be based on potential not what he is actually doing. If he gets his act together this off season and comes motivated to play how he is capable, Gates could be a top 5 pick after his senior year - we used to think after his sophmore or junior year but no GM would take a chance on him in the top 20 even or 1st round if he keeps playing like he has.

Not sure why he is not bright enough to figure our he in no Dirk N. If he ever shot a three again he would not get in the rest of that half. Do it again and you sit the next game. That is the only way guys like Gates get it. Do as I say or be gone.o

[ucat4]

gates is a coach killer unless he figures it out because for success to happen next year gates has to live up to some hype.
he did say cronin is smart and works his a$$ off, maybe too smart for the guys he is coaching. interesting because i know a lot of you that say otherwise but i guess Buford doesnt know what he's talking about. right.
bottom line, cronin needs to change some things up and some players need to MAN the **** UP and play like they are capable.

I personally think Cronin knows a ton about basketball, he just doesn't know how to motivate his players and get them to do what he wants (a huge problem, IMO). Buford also said that the team underacheived - and that they had potential sweet 16 talent this year.

[ZCat]

Remember BJ Grove?

And I meant to quote the coach killer part, just didn't highlight far enough :)

He said Bob H couldn't reach BJ and now BJ regrets it, etc. and compared it to Yancey (that Mick shouldn't get all the heat, same has happened with previous coach- I know Bob won A LOT more, etc of course) Was an aweseome segment about 2 mo ago.

[ucat4]

Seems MC has some tough choices:

1. Continue with YG as is. BAD IDEA.
2. Sit YG ar$e on the bench until he gets it. If he gets tired of it he can work or leave and sit out after next year for a year with one year left.
3. Send him packing now.

We all heard he was lazy in HS. Many thought MC could change that. It hasn't happened after 2 year. Leave him die on the bench.

I think sending him packing is a bad idea, he just has too much potential to be good. MC needs to find a way, any way, to motivate the guy!

[ZCat]

Which is exactly why it will never happen. It would undermine Cronin's credibility and if you have Napoleon complex, you can't have that.

Just asking.

I would get every good player and asst coach I could get.

[bearcated]

Bob Trumpy years ago said this about a former Bengals 1st round pick, Pete Koch, "Looks like Tarzan, plays like Jane". Thats Yancy Gates. A 6'9" big man who shoots weak fade aways, doesn't rebound, and only occasionally defends. Watch how he acts on the court. He often does not act interested.

[dp3113]

Bob Trumpy years ago said this about a former Bengals 1st round pick, Pete Koch, "Looks like Tarzan, plays like Jane". Thats Yancy Gates. A 6'9" big man who shoots weak fade aways, doesn't rebound, and only occasionally defends. Watch how he acts on the court. He often does not act interested.

he has played in an apathetic manner since high school. some things never change with people.

[Lobot]

he has played in an apathetic manner since high school. some things never change with people.

At the risk of inflaming things is there possibility that Yancy is an undiagnosed clinically depressed individual? Or on the other hand is he already on medication that is slowing him down?

I think anyone that actually knows the answer to either of those questions should not post it unless the answer is none of the above.

[Jmac84]

Honestly, this whole thread gets me pretty heated. I like Anthony Buford as mush as any Bearcat fan, but I think he is way off-base with these comments. I realize he is a fan like all of us and wants to win, but he needs to be realistic. Kenyon played 28 minutes a game his sophomore year and average 9.9 points and 8.9 rebounds a game. Yancy played 25 minutes a game last year and averaged 10.4 points a game (about 10.5 over his first two years as opposed to Kenyon's about 5.5 ppg) and 5.9 rebounds. Could he display more effort? Certainly. Did he make clear improvements to his body between his freshman and sophomore years? Yes. Give the guy some time to develop. He's certainly not our biggest problem and it is absurd to act like he is replaceable right now.

[loshow22]

Honestly, this whole thread gets me pretty heated. I like Anthony Buford as mush as any Bearcat fan, but I think he is way off-base with these comments. I realize he is a fan like all of us and wants to win, but he needs to be realistic. Kenyon played 28 minutes a game his sophomore year and average 9.9 points and 8.9 rebounds a game. Yancy played 25 minutes a game last year and averaged 10.4 points a game (about 10.5 over his first two years as opposed to Kenyon's about 5.5 ppg) and 5.9 rebounds. Could he display more effort? Certainly. Did he make clear improvements to his body between his freshman and sophomore years? Yes. Give the guy some time to develop. He's certainly not our biggest problem and it is absurd to act like he is replaceable right now.

K-Mart also had Brannen banging down low to help him (14 ppg), Mel Levett and D'Juan Baker doing there thing from the outside (14, 13 ppg) and Ruben Patterson (16 ppg). Kenyon had a terrific sophomore year especially considering all the other players on the team filling their role. See, we had scoring. K-Mart didn't have to. However, when the time came for Kenyon to be the man, he certainly rose to that occasion. Yancy doesn't have all the extra support. So...is that hindering his ability? Or should he take that as a sign that it is his time to rise?

[Jmac84]

I think he will impress next year.... something like 14 and 8.

[icehole3]

I think Mick is handling Yates correctly, you recruit in his position, thats what you do, you dont invest all this time in him and give him all these Big East minutes to run him off, just cut his minutes if he doesnt get back on defense, he couldnt go to his bench last year, he can now hopefully, if that doesnt work then cut him, remember the Big East is a war, you need big bodies.

[cmm27]

The only thing in this thread that has actually bothered me has been all the references to this "Yates" guy that doesn't seem to be on the team.

[ThreeRiversKing]

I was in the 2nd row @ the Dayton NIT game and could not believe what I saw in pregame warmups. Sitting on the Flyer bench were Gates and Toyloy. As their teammates shot around and did layups these 2 were sitting on the bench with blank stares launching "shots". I guess these were game type shots as that is where they both belong-on the bench. Bottom line.. Gates had better figure out that time is running out to establish a resume for the NBA. It all begins with an attitude adjustment.

[icehole3]

The only thing in this thread that has actually bothered me has been all the references to this "Yates" guy that doesn't seem to be on the team.

sorry for the mistake, Im guilty

[BearcatAlum1]

I was in the 2nd row @ the Dayton NIT game and could not believe what I saw in pregame warmups. Sitting on the Flyer bench were Gates and Toyloy. As their teammates shot around and did layups these 2 were sitting on the bench with blank stares launching "shots". I guess these were game type shots as that is where they both belong-on the bench. Bottom line.. Gates had better figure out that time is running out to establish a resume for the NBA. It all begins with an attitude adjustment.

And that's why I absolutely despised Toyloy's attitude.

There were/are a few players that severely impede the development of Gates.

I'd like to see every player dismissed.

[cmm27]

sorry for the mistake, Im guilty

It wasn't just you, there are a few other posts that have done the same thing.

To throw out an actual opinion on the whole Gates thing. If he is not willing to play to his full capacity then he is a wasted scholarship and should be dismissed. It is as simple as that. The coaching staff should know now, after having him fow two years, if Gates is capable of listening and learning. Perhaps they feel that if they remove some of the negative influences on his work ethic (Bishop and Toyloy) and have quality players pushing him from behind them perhaps he will be better motivated. That is all speculation. I hope he figures it out in time for his junior season as a Bearcat because that would add a solid dimension to this team that it has been lacking for more years than Cronin has been the coach. The only issue I have with hope is that its usually the first step to disappointment.

[ucat4]

Honestly, this whole thread gets me pretty heated. I like Anthony Buford as mush as any Bearcat fan, but I think he is way off-base with these comments. I realize he is a fan like all of us and wants to win, but he needs to be realistic. Kenyon played 28 minutes a game his sophomore year and average 9.9 points and 8.9 rebounds a game. Yancy played 25 minutes a game last year and averaged 10.4 points a game (about 10.5 over his first two years as opposed to Kenyon's about 5.5 ppg) and 5.9 rebounds. Could he display more effort? Certainly. Did he make clear improvements to his body between his freshman and sophomore years? Yes. Give the guy some time to develop. He's certainly not our biggest problem and it is absurd to act like he is replaceable right now.

Good Kenyon analogy - I definitely do not think he should be sent packing.....that's just plain crazy. Buford's opinion of Gates being a "coach killer" (I believe that's what he said), is also a little over-dramatic.

[nachoman91]

From ESPN Page 2 writer Bill Simmons article regarding college kids and their pro potential. This describes Yancy and several other UC players perfectly.

These are young kids. They are easily influenced. They have no experience handling adversity or prosperity. Heck, on my podcast this week, Ohio State's Mark Titus discussed how much Evan Turner changed since his freshman year, when he played with a chip on his shoulder and clashed with teammates and coaches. Now he doesn't. What happened? He got older. He matured. He learned how to deal with other people.

What's the difference between being a fixable head case and an unfixable head case? It's simple, actually. You can't become un-lazy. You can't go from being clueless to having a clue. You can't go from crazy to sane. You can't go from selfish to selfless. You can't go from soft to tough. You can't go from being a knucklehead to being savvy. You can't go from ADD to totally zoned in. You can't go from being a DEFCON 1 hothead to a soothing presence. But you can absolutely mature from "being an a-hole" to "not being an a-hole."


If a guy like Yancy hasn't figured it out by now its likely he never will. Don Little never did, BJ Grove never did, Rob Whaley never did. Some guys are just hard wired to be stupid or lazy or both.

[Carin's Dad]

I suspect that Mr Gates under Huggins would be getting ready to sit out his transfer year by now.

[DBSUC1982]

Good Kenyon analogy - I definitely do not think he should be sent packing.....that's just plain crazy. Buford's opinion of Gates being a "coach killer" (I believe that's what he said), is also a little over-dramatic.

Disagree with "overdramatic" call. He is exactly right. The kid you recruit to be your centerpiece who underachieves, doesn't put forth 100% effort, and thinks he's a lock for the league & winds up affecting the whole attitude of the entire team with his apathy. The result---- the coach soon loses his job if he can't change him. BUFORD is RIGHT.

[Joe C.]

What is AB alluding to when he made the comment that he doesn't watch the final 4 b/c of the way his UC team was treated there?

[DBSUC1982]

What is AB alluding to when he made the comment that he doesn't watch the final 4 b/c of the way his UC team was treated there?

They were basically shunned by the media because they had all those JC's and transfers & bluebloods Indiana, Duke & Michigan were there , at least in AB's view.

[MDW79]

What is AB alluding to when he made the comment that he doesn't watch the final 4 b/c of the way his UC team was treated there?

He goes into a little detail in the first part of the interview, says he threw his final four ring off the team bus too. This one was done a few days earlier and I debated whether to put it up here b/c there's a lot about Huggs and of course the 92 team but here ya go:

http://onegreatseason.com/home/2010/3/31/ex-bearcat-anthony-buford-doesnt-miss-final-four.html

[Big B]

First Huggs does not out weigh him nor is he as strong or tall. Second, do you mean coaches like Izzo, Krzyzewski or Boheim? Oh yeah, now we get it.

Ok, 1st off your comparing little Mickie C to Hall of Fame coaches, who all incidentally played college basketball, which was my point. All Mickie did was run a video camera in college, no offense if thats all you did.

Also Huggy goes 6' 7" and it looks like he my have lost a few since he left so i'll say 310 lbs.

[BearcatAlum1]

Ok, 1st off your comparing little Mickie C to Hall of Fame coaches, who all incidentally played college basketball, which was my point. All Mickie did was run a video camera in college, no offense if thats all you did.

Also Huggy goes 6' 7" and it looks like he my have lost a few since he left so i'll say 310 lbs.

If Huggins is 6'7", I'm 7'6".

FWIW, I'll buy the 310.

[ucmba2002]

Honestly, this whole thread gets me pretty heated. I like Anthony Buford as mush as any Bearcat fan, but I think he is way off-base with these comments. I realize he is a fan like all of us and wants to win, but he needs to be realistic. Kenyon played 28 minutes a game his sophomore year and average 9.9 points and 8.9 rebounds a game. Yancy played 25 minutes a game last year and averaged 10.4 points a game (about 10.5 over his first two years as opposed to Kenyon's about 5.5 ppg) and 5.9 rebounds. Could he display more effort? Certainly. Did he make clear improvements to his body between his freshman and sophomore years? Yes. Give the guy some time to develop. He's certainly not our biggest problem and it is absurd to act like he is replaceable right now.

I am with you Jmac, for people to think Yancy is our biggest problem is absurd. Someone even comparing him to BJ Grove, are you out of your mind? I miss the days when people on this forum actually watched all the games. Let me spell it out for you - our BIGGEST PROBLEM IS SHOOTING!!!

[dp3113]

I am with you Jmac, for people to think Yancy is our biggest problem is absurd. Someone even comparing him to BJ Grove, are you out of your mind? I miss the days when people on this forum actually watched all the games. Let me spell it out for you - our BIGGEST PROBLEM IS SHOOTING!!!

i think the "problem" reference was more to attitude, work ethic, chemistry, etc---off court issues- and not the on court product.

i agree though, i don't think he is the biggest problem, but i wouldn't go so far as to say he isn't a problem. hopefully with some trimming of the fat, and some of the problem guys being sent packing this summer, an overall team improvement in attitude could help yancy improve and actually try. i'm not going to hold my breathe on that, but here's to hoping.

[ucmba2002]

Gates a coach-killah?

What does that make Mitchell, Biggie, Davis, Bishop, or Dixon. Those guys may not have the same crappy 'tudes that Bishop/gates. But they all underperformed or seriously hurt the team. Cronin has half a team of coach killers. Got to step it up, or go elsewhere.

right on....I respect buford and he probably knows a ton more about Basketball than I ever will, but give me a Lazy A$s Yancy over a Biggie at 100% energy any day. This is one of top 5 talented players we have EVER landed and people are ready to kick him off the team??

[Lobot]

On the subject of Gates. I wonder if not that he doesn't care but can't. I've never met him personally but his court play most of the time strikes me as someone with depression. I'm probably really reaching on this but I wonder if he's ever been profiled for it.

[Brian H.]

I think he will impress next year.... something like 14 and 8.

I would not be impressed with someone of his size averaging 8 rebounds a game.

What is a clear lack of effort sign is the less than 1 Block per game he averages. Go to Statsheet.com and compare his per 40 minutes stats, almost every one of them especially defensively and rebounding are worse than last year.

if you run the comparison between their sophomore seasons it is not even close, every stat except points per game, of course Yancy took almost 100 more shots this season than Martin did that year. 30% more shots. Kenyon also blocked nearly 3 shots per game.

[Brian H.]

right on....I respect buford and he probably knows a ton more about Basketball than I ever will, but give me a Lazy A$s Yancy over a Biggie at 100% energy any day. This is one of top 5 talented players we have EVER landed and people are ready to kick him off the team??

Top 5 raw potential, maybe, of course I would even question that in the recent past I would say James White, Kirkland, and DeMarr to have just as much or more raw potential, some developed it more than others.

What exactly has Yancy accomplished in his basketball career going back to high school that would make him top 5 all time? Until Mayo and Walker left he wasn't even the best player in the city.

[ou_bearcat]

Top 5 raw potential, maybe, of course I would even question that in the recent past I would say James White, Kirkland, and DeMarr to have just as much or more raw potential, some developed it more than others.

What exactly has Yancy accomplished in his basketball career going back to high school that would make him top 5 all time? Until Mayo and Walker left he wasn't even the best player in the city.

In terms of raw talent out of high school, I think it's fair to say he is one of the top 10 or so players to come to UC.

Too bad he doesn't develop.

I think he brings it next year.

[JGood]

mick always has said that yancy was and is a project. he pointed to yancy only grabbing 7 boards a game in high school being 6-9 260. in high school nobody could body him up and only got 7 boards. that was his knock, no effort, no intensity. and so far thats what he has delivered. yancy has glimpses of how dominant he can be, i think mick is doing everything he possibly can. at some point it boils down to how bad the player wants it.

[MDW79]

mick always has said that yancy was and is a project. he pointed to yancy only grabbing 7 boards a game in high school being 6-9 260. in high school nobody could body him up and only got 7 boards. that was his knock, no effort, no intensity. and so far thats what he has delivered. yancy has glimpses of how dominant he can be, i think mick is doing everything he possibly can. at some point it boils down to how bad the player wants it.

That stat is incorrect. Cronin just threw that number out there. Yancy averaged 10.5 rb's a game through his So to Sr year. His freshman year I believe he split time between JV and Varsity. The point on his intensity is valid but Cronin's use of that stat is really bogus. If he did use his freshman numbers, it will still round up to 8 or so. If you take a 4 year average for any HS player only at the varsity their numbers will drop dramatically. I thought it seemed desperate for Cronin to use it, should have been just been honest. He comes across as so defensive IMO.

[rayscott425]

I am with you Jmac, for people to think Yancy is our biggest problem is absurd. Someone even comparing him to BJ Grove, are you out of your mind? I miss the days when people on this forum actually watched all the games. Let me spell it out for you - our BIGGEST PROBLEM IS SHOOTING!!!

Shooting is a lot of Gates problem too!! When your 6'9" 260 lbs, you should have lots of layups and dunks, not fade away jumpers!!! How hard is it to get a defender on your hip, and get yourself in position for a dunk or layup!!! If Danny Fortson would have gates height he would have been dominating in the NBA!!

[ucmba2002]

Shooting is a lot of Gates problem too!! When your 6'9" 260 lbs, you should have lots of layups and dunks, not fade away jumpers!!! How hard is it to get a defender on your hip, and get yourself in position for a dunk or layup!!! If Danny Fortson would have gates height he would have been dominating in the NBA!!

I think Yancy has a much softer shot than Fortson and K-Mart. He also seems to have better hands. That is what frustrates me so much, it seems no one is helping him with his post game. Yancy has the potential to be as good if not better than Danny or Kenyon.

[ucmba2002]

Top 5 raw potential, maybe, of course I would even question that in the recent past I would say James White, Kirkland, and DeMarr to have just as much or more raw potential, some developed it more than others.

What exactly has Yancy accomplished in his basketball career going back to high school that would make him top 5 all time? Until Mayo and Walker left he wasn't even the best player in the city.

Are you kidding me? Yancy averaged a double-double his senior season, dominated the adidas Derby Classic, and finished as a 5 star recruit.

Yeah he was just another average recruit.

[MDW79]

I think Yancy has a much softer shot than Fortson and K-Mart. He also seems to have better hands. That is what frustrates me so much, it seems no one is helping him with his post game. Yancy has the potential to be as good if not better than Danny or Kenyon.

Yancy could have an entourage of the best low post coaches around him and he would never come close to Fortson's ability to use his body or K-mart's heart and athleticism. You can't teach what those kids had IMO.

[bearcatjoey]

I personally think Cronin knows a ton about basketball, he just doesn't know how to motivate his players and get them to do what he wants (a huge problem, IMO). Buford also said that the team underacheived - and that they had potential sweet 16 talent this year.

Of course they had sweet 16 talent this year. But you can't get here when that talent is marred by attitude problems, low basketball IQs, and poor coaching. This year was the text book definition of underachieving.

[bearcatjoey]

The only reason he is still here is the potential he has. I think Yancey is still used to getting his way. That is slowly changing. If he was seriously trying to get better, then he would be doing what everyone knows he should - playing inside. However, he was still too good a body not to play. He is just operating at about 55% of his capacity. Instead of being a lottery pick after next year, he will be lucky to be a high 2nd pick and again it would be based on potential not what he is actually doing. If he gets his act together this off season and comes motivated to play how he is capable, Gates could be a top 5 pick after his senior year - we used to think after his sophmore or junior year but no GM would take a chance on him in the top 20 even or 1st round if he keeps playing like he has.

Not sure why he is not bright enough to figure our he in no Dirk N. If he ever shot a three again he would not get in the rest of that half. Do it again and you sit the next game. That is the only way guys like Gates get it. Do as I say or be gone.o

If Yancy doesn't remove his head from his rear, he'll be playing in Europe for a few years at most. Too many players out there who, although they have less talent than Gates, play harder, smarter, and competitively.

[bearcatjoey]

And that's why I absolutely despised Toyloy's attitude.

There were/are a few players that severely impede the development of Gates.

I'd like to see every player dismissed.

Problem is that Toyloy came in with the reputation of an aggressive maniac. Why did it die when Mick started coaching him?

[bearcatjoey]

On the subject of Gates. I wonder if not that he doesn't care but can't. I've never met him personally but his court play most of the time strikes me as someone with depression. I'm probably really reaching on this but I wonder if he's ever been profiled for it.

Dude, you might be over-stepping just a bit. Starting to sound like an advertisement for Prozac.

[DBSUC1982]

If Yancy doesn't remove his head from his rear, he'll be playing in Europe for a few years at most. Too many players out there who, although they have less talent than Gates, play harder, smarter, and competitively.

No chance he plays in the NBA unless he does a complete turnaround in his footwork, condition, strength around the hoop,attitude & motor. Right now he'd be an average to good player overseas. If he came out this year, he would not be drafted.

[JGood]

Of course they had sweet 16 talent this year. But you can't get here when that talent is marred by attitude problems, low basketball IQs, and poor coaching. This year was the text book definition of underachieving.

they have the potential to be that good. problem is when your best players are freshman and sophmores there is going to be obstacles unless your kentucky with crazy good freshman. the good teams that can win games you need to win have seniors that contribute, uc had vaughn and toyloy. think about it. unfortunatley next years seniors havent been good enough so far, uc needs some players to blossom quick.
uc needs some players down low with the hicks type mentality. with the gaurds this squad has will benefit with some big men that can cause chaos down low. yancy hasnt done that even though he could, maybe these 2 freshman can bring that. they have the rep as being rebounders/shot blockers that are athletic and long. thats what this team needs.

[Brian H.]

No chance he plays in the NBA unless he does a complete turnaround in his footwork, condition, strength around the hoop,attitude & motor. Right now he'd be an average to good player overseas. If he came out this year, he would not be drafted.

I agree, considering Hicks had trouble catching on with a top tier European league I can't see Yancy even getting a team unless he goes to a bottom of the barrel one. Does anyone doubt that Hicks would crush Yancy 1 on 1?

[MDW79]

I agree, considering Hicks had trouble catching on with a top tier European league I can't see Yancy even getting a team unless he goes to a bottom of the barrel one. Does anyone doubt that Hicks would crush Yancy 1 on 1?

He's a lot closer than you would think. I'm not saying this is accurate but it just shows how much talent he has, and he we all know how the NBA drafts. Pick #20 in the 2nd round, THIS YEAR. This is only a couple days old too.

http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-mock-draft/2010/

[BearcatAlum1]

He's a lot closer than you would think. I'm not saying this is accurate but it just shows how much talent he has, and he we all know how the NBA drafts. Pick #20 in the 2nd round, THIS YEAR. This is only a couple days old too.

http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-mock-draft/2010/

This emphasizes that some hardwork and a motor will make him a surefire First Round pick.

It's plain as day. I wish it would "click."

Next year could be Yancy's last year in college if he APPLIED himself!

[bearcat1518]

Yancy is one of the most talented and gifted players in UC history, however, he has not nearly lived up to his potential.

Yancy lacks proper footwork for a post player.

Yancy lacks post moves for a post player.

Yancy is not in any type of fluid offense.

Yancy generally doesn't play with heart...although he did play with heart in the Big East tourney bc Lance's enthusiasm was contagious...so we know he CAN be motivated.

This is really quite simple...coaching needs to be able to get Yancy to do these things. Thus far, they haven't.

A kid with raw talent goes to college to get coaching and improve.

[dp3113]

Yancy is one of the most talented and gifted players in UC history, however, he has not nearly lived up to his potential.

Yancy lacks proper footwork for a post player.

Yancy lacks post moves for a post player.

Yancy is not in any type of fluid offense.

Yancy generally doesn't play with heart...although he did play with heart in the Big East tourney bc Lance's enthusiasm was contagious...so we know he CAN be motivated.

This is really quite simple...coaching needs to be able to get Yancy to do these things. Thus far, they haven't.

A kid with raw talent goes to college to get coaching and improve.

the kid has to want to improve himself. development is a two way street.

[vince8290]

I'd get rid of Gates too. While at the Dayton game, coming out after halftime, Gates let out a yawn that looked like he would have much rather been asleep rather than playing in that game. UC is too worried he may transfer. Let him go Mick. I'd either run him out of town or get rid of him. He's a cancer on the team that simply does not care. It's time to move on. It's the coaches responsibility to get these kids to play. If they don't play or produce the effort to the coaches satisifaction, the coach and the player need to move on . One or the other needs to go or maybe both!!!

[MDW79]

It could be that maybe he just doesn't care, which is different than lazy. He could just be another kid who was encouraged to play b/c of his size and talent and ended up doing exceptional up until this point just on those gifts. The fact he didn't even really consider moving to attend another program and the fact he's wasting a golden opportunity leads me to believe that he just doesn't care as much as a lot of other kids in his situation. I'm not saying b/c he went to UC means he didn't want to get better but it could be telling. I'm not sure you can fix this, hopefully he decides he wants to be better. The coaching staff really can't help him any more unless he truly wants it.

[DBSUC1982]

He's a lot closer than you would think. I'm not saying this is accurate but it just shows how much talent he has, and he we all know how the NBA drafts. Pick #20 in the 2nd round, THIS YEAR. This is only a couple days old too.

http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-mock-draft/2010/

I saw that but those mock drafts at this time of the year are pretty meaningless especially when you're talking late 2nd round.

[Grimdogg]

Which is exactly why it will never happen. It would undermine Cronin's credibility and if you have Napoleon complex, you can't have that.

Prime example of the bias of the moderators on this board that I've been talking about.

[milfordcats]

Prime example of the bias of the moderators on this board that I've been talking about.

Calling out the mods probably won't help your case.

This is their house after all...there are plenty of other Bearcat boards if you don't like the management here

[ucat4]

Prime example of the bias of the moderators on this board that I've been talking about.

Refering to a napoleon complex isn't "necessarily" (note the quotes) a bad thing. Napoleon was a very effective leader.

When Mic was first hired I said to my wife, I sure hope Mic's a hardass and she replied "maybe he'll have a napoleon complex or something". I thought this honestly might be a good thing. :D

[JGood]

Calling out the mods probably won't help your case.

This is their house after all...there are plenty of other Bearcat boards if you don't like the management here

i have to ask what your point of posting that is? talking about "their house" when its the internet, its an opinion based site, the mods have opinions too. yet you still proved no opinion at all with your post. well played.

I agree, considering Hicks had trouble catching on with a top tier European league I can't see Yancy even getting a team unless he goes to a bottom of the barrel one. Does anyone doubt that Hicks would crush Yancy 1 on 1?

no and i would pay to see it. hicks was a gift. yancy only dreams of playing like hicks.

Yancy is one of the most talented and gifted players in UC history, however, he has not nearly lived up to his potential.

Yancy lacks proper footwork for a post player.

Yancy lacks post moves for a post player.

Yancy is not in any type of fluid offense.

Yancy generally doesn't play with heart...although he did play with heart in the Big East tourney bc Lance's enthusiasm was contagious...so we know he CAN be motivated.

This is really quite simple...coaching needs to be able to get Yancy to do these things. Thus far, they haven't.

A kid with raw talent goes to college to get coaching and improve.

i agree with it all untill you blame coaching. do you really think the coaching staff isnt using every tool, rescource, inspiration, etc etc etc to influence this kid in his 2 years here?> if you say they arent you are fuk'n crazy. period.
you recruit a kid because of talent, you expect to build on it. at some point with some kids, it doesnt work. would it work in another system, i dont know. but so far yancy hasnt applied himself at all. conner barwin played harder than yancy, match yancy's skills with conners will and he would be an all fuk'n american. since that isnt the case, and since yancy isnt deaf he hears the faults on himself, he just doesnt care to apply himself yet. will he ever? i dont know but i do know next years squad needs him. so like i said THOUSANDS of times here, at some point the player has to MAN THE **** UP.

[MDW79]

i have to ask what your point of posting that is? talking about "their house" when its the internet, its an opinion based site, the mods have opinions too. yet you still proved no opinion at all with your post. well played.








It is their house. They moderate this forum for free. You shouldn't bash anyone on here. It's not that hard for the poster in question to simply disagree but he doesn't do that, almost every post is an attack and/or b!tching. He acts like a 10yr old, who has no class and really never offers an actual opinion either. Bashing some of the people that help provide this site to all us is pretty stupid.

It's almost as if he thinks there's some Bearcatnews conspiracy. Like it comes from the top on down. :D

[Lobot]

It's almost as if he thinks there's some Bearcatnews conspiracy. Like it comes from the top on down. :D

Oh that's the last thing we need.

[milfordcats]

i have to ask what your point of posting that is? talking about "their house" when its the internet, its an opinion based site, the mods have opinions too. yet you still proved no opinion at all with your post. well played.

They created the site. They pay to maintain it. They moderate it.

I classify that as making it 'their house.' I don't agree with everything they do, but my choices are either to accept it or leave...and I choose to accept it

And I don't really see how I didn't express my opinion. I said exactly what I think.

[coach]

the gates situation is one that will likely take care of itself. as i've said here before and i stand by it, i don't believe he really enjoys bball. at his age, he will either wake up and realize it's his meal ticket(ie clock ticking), or he will see less and less playing time. they have two recruits coming in who are inside players, and jackson is a 4 who will likely play next year. from all indications, he's a scrapper so don't be surprised if this plays out, gates minutes go down if you do not see his intensity pickup. we really haven't had that luxury his first two years.

[bearcated]

the gates situation is one that will likely take care of itself. as i've said here before and i stand by it, i don't believe he really enjoys bball. at his age, he will either wake up and realize it's his meal ticket(ie clock ticking), or he will see less and less playing time. they have two recruits coming in who are inside players, and jackson is a 4 who will likely play next year. from all indications, he's a scrapper so don't be surprised if this plays out, gates minutes go down if you do not see his intensity pickup. we really haven't had that luxury his first two years.I don't think Gates is a bad kid, or even lazy. He is just immature. I don't get the sense watching him, that he realizes the opportunity he has before him.

My preference is that UC keeps him, and Mick just recruits other guys that will take his PT. If he grows up, you suddenly have one heck of a player.

[Namrag]

I think you continue to play the guy who performs the best at the 4. The last two years, an immature, unmotivated Yancy was our best option.

If MC continues to recruit that position and someone comes in who is an equal or better option, then go with him.

Bottom line, intensity, motivation, scrappy, ect, etc, doesn't matter. Production is all that matters.

For the record, I think Yancy is capable of much more than he has produced so far. Btu you have to admit that even at that he has been far and away the best option, the most productive option, that this team has had for the past 2 years.

[ucat4]

I don't think Gates is a bad kid, or even lazy. He is just immature. I don't get the sense watching him, that he realizes the opportunity he has before him.

My preference is that UC keeps him, and Mick just recruits other guys that will take his PT. If he grows up, you suddenly have one heck of a player.

I agree - afterall, competition for PT might be exactly what he needs to light his fire a little bit.