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(08-24-2020 03:24 PM)monarx Wrote:  

(08-24-2020 11:38 AM)Gilesfan Wrote:  Why are we comparing BT to JJ in recruiting big men?

Because he was the previous coach, recruited high quality bigs and therefore proved it can be done. Alex, Dahi, Valdus, Gerald. Even Sam would probably start on this squad. I wouldnt just compare JJ to BT, but to Capel, Young, Purnell etc. And 8 years ago isnt that long. Sober BT was a better coach and recruiter than JJ. I don't even think its close. But, sober BT went away, replaced by drunk BT and we let him go. Rightfully so. Then our first choice new coach who was basically hired got on a lucky streak in the NCAA and backed out of his commitment to come here and we got stuck with JJ as a replacement. JJs done fine. In some ways, better than I feared. In most ways, he's pretty much what I expected. Top third CUSA, OK recruiting, and an occasional post-season appearance. Regardless, JJ has a hard time getting quality interior players. Ezipke is probably the best one he's had. BTs success in that area shows it can be done here.

Sam Harris would not start here lol.

BT obviously had a better track record here but the gap is nowhere near as wide as people make it seem. Im guessing its due to the 2 years that everyone remembers over the remaining body of his work. JJ actually has a higher win percentage. BT also had some advantages at the time and hopefully the practice facility helps recruiting (most recruits are saying it does help, FWIW).

In terms of comparing JJ to Capel, JJ comes out way ahead. Capel was not good outside of the gift wrapped squad.


FWIW, we've been way better than "top third CUSA."

I don't think Ezikpe is the best center we've had but I do hope he rises to that level (and I believe he has the talent to do so). He has a ways until he reaches Stith, Porter, or Arledge status. JJ certainly has not had the big men that BT had, but he's had some pretty solid ones. If we went down the list, JJ certainly has had way better point guards. Wing players....I'd have to do some research as off the top of my head I have no idea.

But that doesn't get the infactuation with big players (or freshman big players for that matter). If people constantly compared wing players that JJ recruits to BTs wing players, would it mean anything?