Preps to Pros: NBA 2K26 Storyline from 1983 to future with help from NBA 2K14

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From Ljubljana to Chapel Hill: Dario Zagorac Adds Depth to Slovenia’s Basketball Pipeline


By Alexander Wolff | ESPN Classic Feature

Slovenia’s basketball pipeline has always emphasized fundamentals and skill, but now it’s getting a dose of American elite competition thanks to Dario Zagorac.

Zagorac, a 6’7” small forward born in Slovenia, is currently starring for the North Carolina Tar Heels, one of the nation’s premier college programs. Competing in the ACC, he faces some of the toughest collegiate talent in the country, honing his scoring, defense, and basketball IQ at the highest amateur level.


As the 1984 Olympic tryouts approach, college stars across the country are showing off their skills before a record number of scouts, coaches, and international observers. The competition at the guard position has never been fiercer.


Key Contenders at Point Guard

• Gregor Irving (DePaul) – Known for his quick first step and court vision, Irving has been running point for the Blue Demons with poise beyond his years. Scouts note his ability to break pressure defenses and make teammates better.
• George Hilt (Iowa) – A crafty floor general, Hilt mixes high-IQ play with defensive tenacity. His midrange game has developed rapidly, making him a dual-threat at both ends. NBA teams are quietly impressed.
• Hugh Jackson (Michigan State) – Jackson brings physicality and speed. While less polished than Hilt or Irving, his athleticism and ability to create fast-break opportunities make him an exciting prospect for international play.

The Scout Invasion


Tryouts and college showcase games have turned into scouting meccas. One recent session in Chicago reportedly had:

• Over 25 NBA scouts
• 6 European team representatives (Spain, France, Italy)
• 3 FIBA observers documenting potential Olympic talent

Scout chatter suggests the U.S. program is evaluating not just skill, but adaptability under pressure, as these guards are often playing in arenas packed with talent vying for limited Olympic slots.

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Top U.S. High School Prospects


Power Forwards & Bigs

• Greg Armstrong (Eau Claire HS, SC) – The nation’s top power forward, commanding attention from Ohio State, Duke, and North Carolina, as well as NBA scouts eyeing his long-term potential.
• Leonard Madison (Montverde Academy, FL) – A physically imposing forward who transferred from Dutch Fork, drawing interest from European clubs in Spain and France.

Small Forwards & Wings

• Ricardo Edwards (Homestead HS, FL) – A versatile wing with scoring and defensive ability; NBA scouts and Spanish teams have reportedly sent representatives to his games.
• Clifford Reece (Glenbard West, IL) – A junior climbing the rankings rapidly due to his athleticism and shooting.
• Sammy Copeland (Dutch Fork, SC) – Small forward committed to Indiana, impressing with versatility and scoring.

Point Guards & Guards

• Drew Kirkland (Hartsville HS, SC) – A smart, explosive floor general; drawing attention from UNC, Indiana, Georgia Tech, and NBA scouts.
• Thomas Gordon (Mater Dei, CA) – Sophomore shooting guard with elite athleticism; comparisons to Kirkland are common among scouts.
• Ernest Cameron (Whitney Young, IL) – Point guard signed with Iowa, also attracting overseas interest including Australia’s NBL.
• Adrian Sharpe (Glenbard West, IL) – Point guard signed with Cincinnati, excelling in playmaking.

Centers & Big Men

• David Karl (Simeon, IL) – Center drawing NBA, Duke, UNC, Oklahoma, and Rutgers attention; his height and skill are turning heads nationwide.
• Walter Anthony (Whitney Young, IL) – Center committed to Arizona; also scouted by Youngstown State.
• Artie Vernie (Rancho Christian, Australia) – Born Australian center, key to the Boomers’ Olympic future.

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Small-Market Teams: Development and Opportunity


Utah Jazz

• The Jazz, still solidifying their fan base in Salt Lake City, are focused on drafting high-upside young talent.
• They’re scouting top high school prospects and NCAA standouts, emphasizing players who can develop quickly and help establish a winning culture in a smaller market.

Milwaukee Bucks

• Milwaukee continues to balance market expectations with draft strategy.
• Scouts are looking at versatile forwards and high-IQ guards, aiming for long-term development rather than immediate superstar signings.
• European scouting is also a consideration, with teams like Real Madrid and France showing interest in top U.S. talent.

Large-Market Teams: Exposure and Immediate Impact



Atlanta Hawks

• Hawks scouts are evaluating a combination of college and international prospects, looking to attract a fast-paced, exciting style of play to energize the Southeast market.

Houston Rockets

• The Rockets are balancing draft needs with long-term franchise development, focusing on big men and athletic wings to complement their existing roster in a booming Texas market.

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Julius Erving: Still the Face of the League


At 33 years old, Dr. J remained the league’s most recognizable star, a combination of elegance, creativity, and leadership. Though his athleticism wasn’t quite the same as in his ABA days, Erving continued to electrify crowds with acrobatic layups, midrange shooting, and the swagger of a champion.

“Dr. J is still the guy you pay to see,” said one scout. “Even when he’s not scoring 30, he’s dictating the game.”

Erving averaged over 20 points per game in the first half of the season, showing no signs of slowing down as he balanced scoring with mentoring a younger core.

The Legacy Question

For Julius Erving, the 1983–84 season carries more than just wins and losses. It was about cementing his legacy as not only a Sixers legend but one of the greatest ambassadors in basketball history.

“Julius brings style to the game,” said a fellow All-Star. “But he also brought dignity. Every young player, from college kids to high schoolers dreaming of the NBA, wanted to be like him.”

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On International Talent


The 1984 draft pool also includes a growing wave of international stars. Erving, who has long championed the globalization of the game, spoke about their importance.

• Cristiano Conti (Brazil/France) – “I watched tape of Conti. He’s fearless, takes on grown men in Europe. That confidence will translate.”
• Carlos Jimenez (Spain) – “Sharp shooter, great footwork. Reminds me of some of the best European guards I faced in exhibitions. He can stretch the game.”
• Andre Lyles (Arizona/Italy) – “Big man with European polish. He’s patient, doesn’t force shots. That’s rare at his age.”

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Bucks: Milwaukee’s Balanced Attack


The Milwaukee Bucks (26–12) sit 10 games back, but their defensive depth and teamwork make them the most likely challengers to Boston. Coach Don Nelson has built a unit that frustrates opponents with relentless switching and physical play.

Sidney Moncrief, their All-Star guard, has emerged as a lockdown defender while carrying the scoring load. Terry Cummings and Paul Pressey round out a lineup that doesn’t have a Bird or Erving, but thrives on balance and chemistry.


Sixers: Champions in the Chase

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The defending champion Philadelphia 76ers (25–13) remain in the hunt despite a slower start. Julius Erving is still dazzling, averaging over 20 points per game, while Moses Malone continues to dominate the paint. Injuries and fatigue, however, have tested Philly’s depth.

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Maurice Cheeks has been steady, and Andrew Toney’s scoring gives the Sixers another punch, but the defending champs know that to repeat, they’ll need to regain their killer instinct.

“The crown is still in Philly,” said one veteran player. “But the Celtics are coming hard, and the Sixers need to match that fire.”

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• Chicago Bulls (11–25): With trade rumors swirling and a lack of star power, Chicago’s struggles are evident. The Bulls are already looking to the 1984 NBA Draft, where a potential franchise savior could be waiting. Scouts have linked Chicago to Michael Jordan, should the Tar Heel declare.
• Washington Bullets (11–28): The Bullets, just four years removed from an NBA title, are mired in transition. Aging stars and inconsistency have left them near the bottom, with fans wondering how quickly they can rebuild. The front office is expected to explore international scouting as a way to accelerate their turnaround.

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The Chicago Stadium crowd came for a show on Saturday night — and Bernard King delivered a masterpiece. The New York Knicks’ star forward lit up the Bulls for 57 points, slicing through defenders, raining jumpers, and silencing a raucous Chicago crowd in one of the season’s most electrifying performances.

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The Performance


From the opening tip, King was unstoppable. His first-half barrage — hitting 12 of 15 shots — left the Bulls scrambling for answers. By the third quarter, even double-teams couldn’t slow him down.

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Each basket drew gasps, groans, and finally admiration from Bulls fans, who rose to their feet as King continued his onslaught.

Final line: 57 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists, putting his name alongside the greatest single-game performances in NBA history.

The Bulls’ Woes Continue


The Bulls (now 17–21) could only watch as King dismantled their defense. Orlando Woolridge and Quintin Dailey tried to answer on the offensive end, but Chicago never found a way to contain King’s midrange brilliance.

The loss underscored Chicago’s ongoing struggles. With little defensive cohesion and no true franchise anchor, the Bulls are languishing in the standings — fueling speculation about their intentions in the 1984 NBA Draft, where names like Hakeem Olajuwon, Michael Jordan, and Sam Bowie loom large.

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A Star in His Prime


For King, the game was more than a box-score stunner — it was a statement to the league. Once considered too injury-prone to build around, King has proven he’s one of the NBA’s most lethal scorers.

“He was hitting everything,” said Knicks coach Hubie Brown. “When Bernard gets into a rhythm like that, it doesn’t matter who’s guarding him — he’s scoring.”

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The Bigger Picture


The Knicks, fighting to stay afloat in a brutal Eastern Conference led by Boston, Milwaukee, and Philadelphia, desperately needed this type of spark. While their playoff hopes remain uncertain, King’s brilliance shows that New York has the kind of player who can steal games and change series.

At Chicago Stadium, in front of a stunned Bulls crowd, Bernard King reminded the league why he’s one of basketball’s most feared offensive weapons.

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High school basketball in 1984 continues to deliver headline matchups, and last night’s Sunrise Christian Academy vs. Rancho Christian showdown proved no different. Packed bleachers, college scouts, and raw star power filled the gym as two of the nation’s rising programs squared off in a game that swung wildly before settling into a nail-biter.

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The Stars Shine Bright


Rancho Christian looked dead in the water early, falling into a double-digit hole after a slow start. That’s when Ian Allen, the 6’4” shooting guard, put the team on his back. Allen poured in tough buckets, showcased his smooth jumper, and got downhill in transition to rally Rancho Christian back into the game.

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Allen finished as the clear standout, impressing scouts with both his leadership and shot-making.

On the other end, Jones Live, Sunrise Christian’s fearless wing scorer, led all players in points. His ability to get hot from mid-range and slash past defenders kept Sunrise afloat as Rancho clawed its way back.

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Scouts in the Building


The matchup drew heavy attention from colleges. Illinois State has been circling both Allen and Live, while Delawarehas focused in on Live’s potential to be a program-changer. Texas A&M and DePaul both had coaches in attendance, making the gym feel like an unofficial recruiting summit.

“Both kids have next-level ability,” one Big Ten scout said after the game. “Allen has that killer scoring instinct, and Live has the toughness you want in a foundational piece.”

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The Game


Played in front of a lively crowd at Reunion Arena in Dallas, the Mavs squeezed out a 112–108 victory over the Jazz in a game defined by tempo swings.

• Mark Aguirre powered Dallas with 28 points and 7 rebounds, bullying his way into the paint and hitting timely mid-range shots.
• Rolando Blackman chipped in 22 points, his perimeter shooting proving crucial in keeping the Jazz defense spread out.
• For Utah, Adrian Dantley was sensational as usual, posting 34 points on a mix of bruising drives and free throws, carrying the Jazz offensively.

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The backcourt battle was also pivotal, with Dallas’ young guard Derek Harper holding his own against Utah’s Rickey Green, both pushing the pace and setting the tone.


Jazz Searching for Consistency

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The Jazz, despite Dantley’s brilliance, continue to be plagued by depth issues. Darrell Griffith added 18 points, but Utah struggled to get much else beyond its stars. Their defense broke down late, allowing Dallas to secure the win with clutch baskets.

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For coach Frank Layden, it’s about finding balance:

“We can’t just expect Adrian to carry us every night. We’ve got to tighten defensively and get production from the bench.”

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Suns Fall Short to Sonics at Home, But Eyes Already on the 1984 NBA Draft

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By David Aldridge | ESPN NBA Insider

The Phoenix Suns welcomed the Seattle SuperSonics to the Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum and fought wire to wire before falling, 114–110, in front of a restless home crowd.

While Walter Davis (31 points) and Larry Nance (20 points, 9 rebounds) kept the Suns competitive, the difference came in the fourth quarter, where Seattle’s Jack Sikma (24 points, 12 rebounds) and Gus Williams (19 points, 8 assists) steadied the Sonics’ attack to close out the victory.

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Despite the sting of another close home loss, talk in the Suns’ front office has already shifted toward June’s NBA Draft. With Phoenix hovering in the middle of the Western Conference standings, scouts are openly debating whether the franchise needs to move up to secure a true difference-maker.

• Big men are the priority. With Olajuwon at Houston and international prospect Cristiano Conti turning heads in France, the Suns are said to be targeting a frontcourt anchor to pair with Nance.
• One Western Conference scout: “Walter Davis is a star, but he’s not the answer inside. If Phoenix wants to leap into contention, they need a dominant presence in the paint.”

Seattle’s Angle


For the Sonics, the focus is different. With Sikma entrenched as the franchise cornerstone, Seattle is looking at the backcourt of the future. Rumors have them heavily scouting Michael Jordan (UNC) and even daring to keep tabs on Darnell Kirkland (Chester HS) should the prep phenom flirt with the unthinkable jump to the NBA.

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• A Sonics scout after the win: “We’ve got our big man. What we need is a guard who can take us to the next level.”

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High School Horizons: Malcolm Lyons and Clifford Reece Emerge as 1985 Superstars

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By Chris Broussard

The class of 1985 is already shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, and two names are turning heads nationally: Malcolm Lyons, a junior small forward at Montverde Academy, and Clifford Reece, a junior small forward at Glenbard West High School in Illinois. Both have earned five-star recruit status from multiple scouting services and are being tracked by top programs across the country.

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The National Picture


With Lyons and Reece leading the class of 1985, the next generation of elite recruits is already capturing national attention. Both players are seen as potential cornerstone talents for programs looking to make deep NCAA Tournament runs in the coming years.

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Scouts have predicted that by the end of their senior seasons, college coaches will be lining up to secure commitments from both players, and whispers of NBA potential are already circulating.

“They’re both going to be household names before long,” said one recruiting analyst. “Everyone’s watching them, and the pressure is only going to get higher.”

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Shaun Peters – UCLA

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Peters, a versatile wing from Simeon High School in Chicago, has been making his mark in Westwood this season. Despite UCLA’s struggles in returning to championship form, Peters has excelled in scoring, rebounding, and creating opportunities for teammates, showcasing the kind of all-around skill that NBA executives covet.

• Stats: Averaging over 18 points per game with 6 rebounds and 4 assists.
• Strengths: Strong mid-range shooting, high basketball IQ, and the ability to finish in traffic. Peters’ versatility allows him to play both guard and small forward at the next level.
• Draft Buzz: Scouts note that Peters’ combination of size, athleticism, and maturity makes him a prime candidate to rise up first-round boards. Teams looking for immediate impact wings are watching closely.

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“Shaun’s shown that he can carry a team and handle pressure,” said one NBA scout. “He’s a late riser, but he could be a very high pick if he keeps this pace.”

Cristiano Conti – Brazil / France

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Across the Atlantic, Cristiano Conti, a Brazilian shooting guard who recently starred in France, has caught the eye of NBA teams thanks to his scoring efficiency, versatility, and international experience. Conti has demonstrated the ability to compete against grown men in professional European leagues, which has piqued curiosity among GMs looking for mature, ready-to-play talent.

• Stats: Averaging 22 points per game in France’s top league, with efficient shooting splits and strong defensive awareness.
• Strengths: Explosive scoring ability, deep shooting range, and poise under pressure. Conti has a knack for hitting clutch shots and has experience playing in international competitions.
• Draft Buzz: Teams are weighing Conti’s readiness versus the traditional American pipeline. With European contracts often including NBA buyout clauses, some GMs are hesitant, but the upside is undeniable.

“He’s a different kind of talent,” said a Western Conference executive. “Cristiano’s already professional; he’s not a project. If you draft him, you’re getting someone who can contribute immediately.”

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Cavaliers Challenge 76ers at Home; World B. Free Leads the Charge

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By Jack McCallum | ESPN NBA Insider |

The Cleveland Cavaliers hosted the defending champion Philadelphia 76ers at Richfield Coliseum, delivering an exciting contest that saw the home team hang tough before ultimately falling to Philly in a tightly contested game.

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Game Recap

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Cleveland’s star guard World B. Free put on a scoring clinic, finishing with 25 points, attacking the rim aggressively and hitting several mid-range jumpers over the Sixers’ defense. Free also added 4 assists and a rebound, keeping Cleveland in the fight throughout the night.

For Philadelphia, Julius Erving and Moses Malone were steady as always, combining for 52 points and dominating the paint. Maurice Cheeks provided additional support in the backcourt, controlling tempo and creating opportunities for his teammates.

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Cleveland Takeaways

• World B. Free continues to prove he can take over games against elite competition. His quickness and fearless attacking style make him a constant threat.
• The Cavaliers, currently hovering near the middle of the Eastern Conference, showed they can compete with top-tier teams if Free gets hot.
• Coach Lenny Wilkens emphasized defensive adjustments for future matchups, noting the importance of containing stars like Erving and Malone.

“World B. Free gave us a chance,” Wilkens said postgame. “We just need more consistent contributions from the rest of the roster to finish games like this.”

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As the NBA barrels toward the 1984 All-Star Weekend, the Eastern Conference is taking shape with a blend of familiar powers and surprising storylines.

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Cleveland Cavaliers: Flash of Style, Struggles in the Standings


The Cavaliers, sporting their sharp new orange uniforms this season, have had more style than substance on the hardwood. At 13–25, they sit near the bottom of the conference, though guard World B. Free continues to shine as their offensive centerpiece.

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Free’s 25-point outing against the Sixers this past week showed that Cleveland can play spoiler against top-tier teams. But inconsistency and lack of depth have kept them out of the playoff picture.

Coach Lenny Wilkens has urged patience with the young roster, noting that the Cavaliers’ rebuild will likely require a couple more draft classes.


The Nets Climbing the Ladder


Meanwhile, the New Jersey Nets (23–17) have emerged as one of the East’s most improved teams. Behind the steady play of Otis Birdsong and Buck Williams, the Nets have looked like a legitimate playoff team. Their physical defense and balance on offense make them a tough out for both contenders and pretenders alike.

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Cowboys at the Crossroads: Oklahoma State Basketball in 1983–84


By Dick Weiss | ESPN College Basketball | February 1984

The Oklahoma State Cowboys may not be among the bluest of the blue bloods, but the 1983–84 campaign has given them a roster of gritty veterans and transfers eager to prove themselves on the national stage.

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Frank Johns: The Chicago Product Making Noise


At the center of attention is Frank Johns, a 6’7” small forward from Chicago’s Simeon High School, where he was part of the legendary pipeline that produced some of Illinois’ toughest basketball players.

Johns originally committed to Georgetown, but after limited opportunity early, he transferred to Oklahoma State, bringing with him a reputation as a high-level scorer and defender. Scouts remember him best from the 1982 NCAA Final, when as a freshman Hoya he faced off against Michael Jordan’s North Carolina Tar Heels. Jordan hit the iconic shot, but Johns’ relentless defense and rebounding earned him quiet praise from pro scouts.

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Jesse Hoffman: The Workhorse Forward

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Standing at 6’10”, junior forward Jesse Hoffman has been a stabilizing force in the frontcourt. Averaging 6.1 points per game and just over 7 rebounds, Hoffman isn’t flashy, but his size and ability to bang inside have given the Cowboys toughness in the paint.
Though Hoffman currently isn’t appearing on NBA Draft boards, his consistency has been noticed by overseas scouts who value versatile big men who can rebound and defend multiple positions.

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Cowboys Outlook

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With Johns drawing attention from NBA scouts and Hoffman providing steady interior play, Oklahoma State is building toward a potential NCAA Tournament berth. Coach Paul Hansen has leaned on Johns’ Chicago toughness and Hoffman’s blue-collar mentality to keep the Cowboys competitive in the rugged Big Eight.

[JAY_D1]

Florida Basketball: Building Toward Tomorrow in 1983–84

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By Len Shapiro | ESPN College Basketball | February 1984

The Florida Gators may not yet sit alongside the powers of the SEC like Kentucky or LSU, but in Gainesville, optimism is quietly growing. The 1983–84 season has been about laying the foundation — and if the recruiting trail is any indication, the Gators are ready to turn heads in the coming years


On the Court in ’83–84

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Florida has relied heavily on a scrappy roster this season, leaning on athletic forwards and streaky perimeter play. While they haven’t threatened the SEC’s elite, coach Norm Sloan insists the program is moving in the right direction:

“We know we aren’t Kentucky yet,” Sloan said. “But give this group two years — the culture is shifting, and we’ve got kids coming in who can change the program.”

Looking Ahead

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Florida’s staff has recently been spotted at high school gyms across the Southeast. Two names to watch:

• Clifford Reece (SF, Glenbard West, class of ’85) – Already a rising junior and a 5-star prospect, Florida has quietly joined Illinois and DePaul in pursuit.
• Greg Armstrong (PF, Eau Claire HS) – Widely considered the top player in his class, Armstrong’s recruitment is national, but Florida has reportedly pushed hard to get into the conversation.