Anyone want to Set StateFans Nation straight
about Duke's ability to develop big men?
StateFans Nation has posters saying that Duke doesn't do a good job with big men, challenging anyone to show a good recent big man. I'd do it, but I'm not registered there and being a loyal DBR man, don't want to do so. So if you're registered, feel free to accept their challenge.
But the answer to their challenge includes: Carlos Boozer, Elton Brand, Shelden Williams, Josh McRoberts and even Brian Zoubek. Zoubek's development took time, but it was really impressive when the light went on. And, I'd include Miles Plumlee, though I admit the jury is still out. Even so, the MP1 who arrived on campus four years ago is nowhere to be seen in the MP1 of today.
And let's hope Amile Jefferson chooses royal blue over red and white.
Good Guards Make Good Big Men
Quote:
Originally Posted by
FerryFor50
Plus we have Plumlee 3, who some have said is the most skilled of the Plumlees.
So we'll see... but Mason did screen and roll a lot without any pay off. And I saw him post up and the guards look the other way a lot this season.
I blame it on the guards more than Duke, though.
People list McRoberts as a failure. But he left after 2 solid years and got drafted into the NBA. Is that a failure?
Shav? Left early and played in the NBA.
How many other schools have had big men fail to meet potential? Didn't UNC have Eric Montross, Serge Zwikker, Neil Fingleton, Brian Bersticker, Kris Lang, Deon Thompson... lots of bigs that were fairly high in regard that didn't pan out.
And I suppose they all forget what a bust Todd Fuller ended up being in the NBA. One of the biggest in NBA draft history.
First, I think McRoberts was a flop - he did fine, but did not live up to his potential. I think a good number of people, when thinking of his Duke years, will have better memories of his Mom.
Second, I'm not sure we can claim credit for "developing" Elton - he was born that way.
Finally, I agree that the guards have a lot to do with it. My ageing memory seems to recall in Kyrie's limited games that he was able to involve Mason & bring out the best in him. And this year, I can bring up many mental images of both Miles & Mason, seemingly in good position, not getting the ball over & over again.
But then what do I know?