2/20-2/26 Game Thread Discussion

[Amoo316]

Re: 2/20-2/26 Game Thread Discussion

I'm kind of surprised Donovan hasn't recruited some quality big guys the past few years. He knew Maclin and Tyus weren't going to be there forever. Young is solid but Murphy, Yuegette (sp?), Larson etc. are role players IMO. I believe Kenny Kadji was originally a Gator before transferring to Miami and, of course, Eloy Vargas played one year at UF. Neither played much if my memory serves me correctly.

But yes, Stansbury has never been a great coach. I think he's a great recruiter but his teams fizz out every year around the same time.

Donovan has lost out on a few bigs he thought he was going to get and had a few fizz out. He tends to stay away from the One and Done players (not knocking it because your a UK fan just stating it) and it's IMO a little harder to find a big who in 2-4 years will be a solid college big, but still want to stay in college. The fact that basketball is just something to do in the "winter" in Florida when kids can't play football doesn't help matters.

The Noah/Hortford combo was one of those perfect storm scenarios, I just don't think the local talent is there. Most of UF's in state guys are exactly the kinds of players UF has now. I give Donovan credit, he at least trys to adapt his offense to the talent he has. Florida was respectable for a long time before winning those NCs, but never were and never will be a CBB powerhouse. I'd be content with an Elite 8 appearance this year. Sure I would love to see them win it all, but their style of play could lead to an early exit.

[wildcatchild]

Re: 2/20-2/26 Game Thread Discussion

Donovan has lost out on a few bigs he thought he was going to get and had a few fizz out. He tends to stay away from the One and Done players (not knocking it because your a UK fan just stating it) and it's IMO a little harder to find a big who in 2-4 years will be a solid college big, but still want to stay in college. The fact that basketball is just something to do in the "winter" in Florida when kids can't play football doesn't help matters.

The Noah/Hortford combo was one of those perfect storm scenarios, I just don't think the local talent is there. Most of UF's in state guys are exactly the kinds of players UF has now. I give Donovan credit, he at least trys to adapt his offense to the talent he has. Florida was respectable for a long time before winning those NCs, but never were and never will be a CBB powerhouse. I'd be content with an Elite 8 appearance this year. Sure I would love to see them win it all, but their style of play could lead to an early exit.

Oh, no offense to the one-and-done comment, I know UK has become the poster child for the one-and-done. Not saying I like it but the rule is what it is. Well, until the NBA comes to its senses and adopts MLB's draft rules.

That's an interesting take on the lack of local talent. Never thought of it in those terms. And yes, the Horford/Noah combo was lights out and "the perfect storm" as you said. I remember watching Horford play at the 2004 Derby Festival Classic in Louisville. He was a nice player but not someone I looked at as a future lottery pick.

I kind of feel bad for Donovan because he can obviously develop talent. I've heard the argument that he "caught lightning in a bottle" with his two title teams. However, it takes a good coach to develop players who aren't surefire lottery picks. For example, I know David Lee was a highly recruited player but I wasn't impressed with him early on in his Florida career. However, he was someone who got better each year and then worked his butt off when he got to the NBA.

[sportznut02]

Re: 2/20-2/26 Game Thread Discussion

Northwestern with another close loss tonight. They made a great run at the end of the game to tie it up. But then went down 2 with 3 seconds left after a Sullinger bucket. Shurna had a shot from inside halfcourt go off the front of the rim. The refs were garbage in this game . OSU got lucky that Sullinger didnt get a technical for throwing the ball back over his after a a jump ball. Kid has to be one of the biggest whiners/cry babies in college hoops.