2010 recruits' senior seasons

[ChicagoCrazy84]

With Tyler's, Josh's, and Kyrie's senior season starting up here pretty soon, I thought it might be a good idea to keep track of how they're doing. I don't know if we did anything for Mason and Ryan, but I think it would be nice. It's always hard to track down stats from high school games, so this would make it easier if anyone comes across anything and people are interested in seeing how well they're doing. I was originally just thinking about Josh Hairston, now playing for Montrose, but I think all 3 should be mentioned. I have an old high school friend/teammate Kevin Nelson who I found on facebook not long ago who is a history teacher and assistant for St. Mary's Ryken, who play both Montrose Christian and Gonzaga. He doesn't know much about Josh other than he is now playing for Montrose so he "wants to become the next Kevin Durant", but he knows Tyler fairly well and thinks very highly of him. I don't knw who starts their season first, but let's wish them all good luck and if you come across a news headline or stats, let us know!

[Indoor66]

I plan to concentrate my time and bandwidth on this year's team. Next year's recruits will be my concern sometime in mid-April. Until then I hope they have very good senior years, improve, make good grades and enjoy life.

[whereinthehellami]

Good idea. I was really looking forward to watching Josh this year, as he plays in my area and there isn't usually any good hoop players around. So i would definately like to follow Josh as he plays against better competition. Of course it would good to follow the other signees also. Might get to see them on TV also as all 3 play on nationally recognized teams.

[ChicagoCrazy84]

I plan to concentrate my time and bandwidth on this year's team. Next year's recruits will be my concern sometime in mid-April. Until then I hope they have very good senior years, improve, make good grades and enjoy life.

It doesn't mean you have to be concerned with them, but I am sure some are curious. And you mean to tell me that when Duke has a week off in January or something, you won't be a tid curious to see how they're ballin it in their senior year?

[Mr Blue Devil]

I will definitely be keeping close tabs on Josh through my brother.

They play a tourney in FL this year so I'll be excited to see him play in person.

As I hear things through the season through my bro, I'll let ya'll know anything of interest.

[whereinthehellami]

I will definitely be keeping close tabs on Josh through my brother.

They play a tourney in FL this year so I'll be excited to see him play in person.

As I hear things through the season through my bro, I'll let ya'll know anything of interest.

I look forward to your info, that is a nice connection that you're brother has.

[brevity]

I agree. This is a good idea.

We should have something in between "OMG this guy is going to change our program!!!" and "As we all knew, this guy is going to need a while to adjust."

More educated fans = less annoying fans.

[airowe]

Tyler Thornton and Josh Hairston on the cover of ESPNRise Magazine:

http://s3.amazonaws.com/twitpic/photos/large/46411579.jpg?AWSAccessKeyId=0ZRYP5X5F6FSMBCCSE82&Expires=1259624625&Signature=EIFLfJqGVNvMVhT44hwECXA4fpU%3D

[RainingThrees]

I kept track of Ryan and Masons seasons last year and my expectations for Ryan were too high. I guess that happens when you see a guy average 26 points per game and score in the 30's regularly.

[airowe]

I'm not going to copy and paste the whole thing, but there is a thread on TDD Free board with the schedules of all our recruits/commits:

http://mbd.scout.com/mb.aspx?s=167&f=1386&t=5157597&p=1

[airowe]

Tyler Thornton/Gonzaga High School Basketball Preview Video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zy6NuEK9ZVI

[ChicagoCrazy84]

Thanks for the link.

I wouldn't be surprised if Ty's stock goes up this year, similar to Eric Bledsoe's last year. Maybe not AS much, but he'll be better than his current ranking. Gonzaga will be a good team.

[airowe]

Thanks for the link.

I wouldn't be surprised if Ty's stock goes up this year, similar to Eric Bledsoe's last year. Maybe not AS much, but he'll be better than his current ranking. Gonzaga will be a good team.

I'd look for Hairston's to go up considerably higher than Thornton.

Mainly due to the switch to Montrose, but I think he's starting to fill into his body a little more too (reports of him putting on 15-20 lbs. over the Summer have been confirmed numerous times) and should feel more comfortable asserting his will on the inside with the added bulk.

Thornton skills should be refined a little more, especially on the defensive end.

[G man]

Tyler Thornton/Gonzaga High School Basketball Preview Video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zy6NuEK9ZVI

Great video looks like Duke is getting a guy that has recieved very good coaching. Looks like a good program.

[airowe]

Josh Hairston leads his team to a season opening victory:

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/hss/scores/boys-basketball/theodore-roosevelt/montrose-christian/2009/12/09/

[airowe]

Tyler Thornton with 20 points in Gonzaga's opener:

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/hss/scores/boys-basketball/st-stephensst-agnes/gonzaga/2009/12/01/

[airowe]

Thornton with 20 and draws a charge to seal the victory!

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/hss/scores/boys-basketball/gonzaga/carroll-high/2009/12/07/

[flyingdutchdevil]

Thornton with 20 and draws a charge to seal the victory!

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/hss/scores/boys-basketball/gonzaga/carroll-high/2009/12/07/

Coach K will be proud

[mr. synellinden]

Josh Hairston leads his team to a season opening victory:

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/hss/scores/boys-basketball/theodore-roosevelt/montrose-christian/2009/12/09/

Is Hairston really a legit 6'9", 220 as he is listed in the Wash. Post stats?

[airowe]

Is Hairston really a legit 6'9", 220 as he is listed in the Wash. Post stats?

Yep. I've heard reports from various (and reputable) sources that Josh has put on anywhere from 15 - 25 lbs of muscle since arriving at Montrose. He's really been hitting the weightroom hard under Stu Vetter. The extra inch is debatable, but you have to take any measurement with a grain of salt.

That being said, I think we are going to be pleasantly surprised with Hairston's ability to compete when he arrives next year.

Scout.com put out an article a while back ranking the position recruits for next season by conference (The Big 6 only)

The ACC was the highest ranked conference, with Kyrie as the best point guard coming into the conference and Josh as the best PF.

[HaveFunExpectToWin]

Josh Hairston leads his team to a season opening victory:

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/hss/scores/boys-basketball/theodore-roosevelt/montrose-christian/2009/12/09/

Coach K was in attendance last night per NBC4 news. They had a snippet of video showing K talking to Hairston before the game sometime.

[airowe]

Thornton with 15pts, 5ast, 5reb. 1 3 pointer made.

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/hss/scores/boys-basketball/gonzaga/calvert-hall/2009/12/11/

During first half, HoopGroup tweeted:

Against Calvert Hall, @tythornton1 had a great 1st quarter. He's playing at a very high level right now.

Tyler's tweet after game:

good win tonight. couldnt get it going like i really wanted in the second half. but big game tomorrow.

They're playing Mater Dei tonight in the Finals of the DC Classic: http://www.gonzagadcclassic.org/

[ChicagoCrazy84]

Thornton with 15pts, 5ast, 5reb. 1 3 pointer made.

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/hss/scores/boys-basketball/gonzaga/calvert-hall/2009/12/11/

During first half, HoopGroup tweeted:

Against Calvert Hall, @tythornton1 had a great 1st quarter. He's playing at a very high level right now.

Tyler's tweet after game:

good win tonight. couldnt get it going like i really wanted in the second half. but big game tomorrow.

They're playing Mater Dei tonight in the Finals of the DC Classic: http://www.gonzagadcclassic.org/


Thanks airowe. I remember my senior year any time I scored under 20, I would be pissed the rest of the week. :D

He'll tear it up today!

[airowe]

Thanks airowe. I remember my senior year any time I scored under 20, I would be pissed the rest of the week. :D

He'll tear it up today!

And he did. Tyler Thornton won the Tournament MVP while leading his team to a huge victory over Nationally Ranked Mater Dei. Looks like he again clinched the victory with a heady play, garnering a steal up 2 points and pushing the lead to 4.

Diamond in the rough?

http://www.gonzagadcclassic.org/files/press/2009DCCLassicDay3.pdf

http://dcsportsfan.com/article.aspx?aid=3193

[ChicagoCrazy84]

Congrats Ty!

Also, noticed that Keala King was held to 5 pts. I don't know if Tyler was guarding him or Franklin, bu that would be impressive as well.

[airowe]

Josh and Tyler have both been playing solid ball this year for two nationally ranked teams. Looks like they square off in Honolulu for a tourney this weekend.

http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recruiting/tracker/school?schoolId=150&page=briefingroom&season=2010&id=6244&action=login&appRedirect=http%3A%2F%2Finsider.espn.go.com%2Fncb %2Frecruiting%2Ftracker%2Fschool%3FschoolId%3D150% 26page%3Dbriefingroom%26season%3D2010%26id%3D6244

[airowe]

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/recruiting/basketball/mens/news/story?id=4740916


Josh Hairston PF (6-8, 215)
2010, Spotsylvania, Va./Montrose Christian, signed with Duke
Hairston is one of the most consistent players in the Class of 2010; he always plays with great energy and effort on both ends of the floor, and this event was no different. Hairston has improved his skill since I last saw him. He was confident in shooting and knocking down the midrange jumper and even a 3 with needed time and space. His stroke was smooth, and he shot without hesitation. Hairston drove from the high post and spun off defenders in the lane and made plays along the baseline, where he seems to be very comfortable. Hairston runs the floor and is a lob-catcher when he is ahead of the pack. He attacks the glass and rebounds with authority. He works to defend the low post by denying the entry pass, and he can also step out and guard on the perimeter in a switch situation. Although he is not an off-the-charts athlete, he plays very strong and is productive in a number of areas. Hairston will be a good fit in the intense Duke man-to-man defense and will take advantage of scoring opportunities within the offense.

[Kedsy]

Is Hairston really a legit 6'9", 220 as he is listed in the Wash. Post stats?


http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/recruiting/basketball/mens/news/story?id=4740916

It's amazing how much better 6'9", 220 sounds than 6'8", 215, isn't it?

Either way, I'm getting a little excited about Mr. Hairston. In part because he signed so early and in part because of all the hoopla surrounding Kyrie and HB, Josh seems to be flying under the radar a bit around here. Although I suppose that's probably a good thing in the long run.

[SupaDave]

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/recruiting/basketball/mens/news/story?id=4740916

That's sounding REALLY good (and fwiw, this write-up sounds almost exactly like some stuff I read on Barnes)...

[ChicagoCrazy84]

Josh is going to be a stud. This kid was ranked in the top 20 not long ago and then they dropped him down because he struggled in the LeBron James Camp or something. I firmly believe that before this season is over, his stock will rise enormously again and he will be a McDonald's All American finalist. Everyone points to his work ethic on and off the court as being impeccable and that will translate into great things for him down the road.

[airowe]

Dec. 18

Joshua Hairston, PF

Spotsylvania, VA
Montrose Christian School (MD)

Scouts Grade: ESPNU 100
ESPN100 Rank: 27
Position Rank: 8
Josh Hairston, Montrose roll in Honolulu

ESPNU 100 forward Josh Hairston led all scorers with 20 points as Montrose Christian rolled in its opener at the 'Iolani Prep Classic in Honolulu,

The Mustangs crushed Kahuku 82-37 on Thursday.

[airowe]

Another writeup on Day One in Hawaii:

http://www.hawaiiprepworld.com/1/‘iolani-classic-first-day-roundup/

[airowe]

Tyler Thornton leads his team to victory again.

http://www.starbulletin.com/sports/20091219_Gonzaga_stomps_Moanalua.html

[airowe]

Hairston leads Montrose Christian to a win while Tyler Thornton score 18 but his team loses on a last-second shot.

Link (http://hawaiipreps.honoluluadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20091220/SPORTS03/912200384/1042/PREPSPORTS20&template=PrepSports)

[soccerstud2210]

im getting excited for JH. and i love the fact that he is kinda flying under the radar like Kedsy mentioned as well. the future is bright!

Go DUKE!

[airowe]

Hairston drops 22 in another win for Montrose in Hawaii.

http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recruiting/tracker/school?schoolId=150&page=briefingroom&season=2010&id=6333&action=login&appRedirect=http%3A%2F%2Finsider.espn.go.com%2Fncb %2Frecruiting%2Ftracker%2Fschool%3FschoolId%3D150% 26page%3Dbriefingroom%26season%3D2010%26id%3D6333

[RainingThrees]

Hairston drops 22 in another win for Montrose in Hawaii.

http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recruiting/tracker/school?schoolId=150&page=briefingroom&season=2010&id=6333&action=login&appRedirect=http%3A%2F%2Finsider.espn.go.com%2Fncb %2Frecruiting%2Ftracker%2Fschool%3FschoolId%3D150% 26page%3Dbriefingroom%26season%3D2010%26id%3D6333

Its good that he's playing for Montrose because we know that he is scoring those 22 points against quality competition and is being pushed in practice every day.

[airowe]

Kyrie drops 31 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists in opener for the #1 ranked team in the nation:

http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recruiting/tracker/school?schoolId=150&page=briefingroom&season=2010&id=6358&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fncb %2frecruiting%2ftracker%2fschool%3fschoolId%3d150% 26page%3dbriefingroom%26season%3d2010%26id%3d6358



ESPNU 100 point guard Kyrie Irving scored a game-high 31 points as St. Patrick opened its season with a 77-56 win over Life Center (Burlington, N.J.) on Monday night. Irving added eight rebounds and five assists.

Tyler Thornton drops 16 points:



Duke-bound point guard Tyler Thornton scored 16 points and Gonzaga College H.S. beat Lutheran (Calif.) 68-66 on Monday in the consolation bracket of the 'Iolani Prep Classic.

[InSpades]

Here's some more on Kyrie's 1st game. Seems pretty impressive.

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/5176293102633805/st-patrick-77-life-center-56-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

[RainingThrees]

Kyrie scored 34 points to go along with 3 assists and 4 steals in a blowout win over Newark Tech. The article says he should have had more assists if not for some dropped passes. This dude is a beast, no one else on the team scored in double digits.

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/5170293106633858/st-patrick-72-newark-tech-41-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

[cwaugh]

Kyrie scored 34 points to go along with 3 assists and 4 steals in a blowout win over Newark Tech. The article says he should have had more assists if not for some dropped passes. This dude is a beast, no one else on the team scored in double digits.

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/5170293106633858/st-patrick-72-newark-tech-41-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

In that article it also says that Michael Gilchrist was being watched by Coach K. I wonder if this means he might start following him closer.

[InSpades]

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/school/elizabeth-st-patrick/boysbasketball/

The above link should always contain the most recent results for St. Patrick's. Apparently they are in a tournament out in California this week. Kyrie continues his impressive play.

[thewiseben]

In that article it also says that Michael Gilchrist was being watched by Coach K. I wonder if this means he might start following him closer.

Its not that Coach K is unaware of Gilchrist, I've heard that he's been called 'the best player in HS hoops regardless of year'; I think its just that Gilchrist has never shown any interest in Duke. I hear he's a UK lean. He plays on the same team as Irving I believe.

[airowe]

Kyrie dropped 28 to lead his team to the finals of the MaxPreps Invitational:

http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recruiting/tracker/school?schoolId=150&page=briefingroom&season=2010&id=6436&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3A%2F%2Finsider.espn.go.com%2Fncb %2Frecruiting%2Ftracker%2Fschool%3FschoolId%3D150% 26page%3Dbriefingroom%26season%3D2010%26id%3D6436

[roywhite]

Kyrie dropped 28 to lead his team to the finals of the MaxPreps Invitational:

http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recruiting/tracker/school?schoolId=150&page=briefingroom&season=2010&id=6436&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3A%2F%2Finsider.espn.go.com%2Fncb %2Frecruiting%2Ftracker%2Fschool%3FschoolId%3D150% 26page%3Dbriefingroom%26season%3D2010%26id%3D6436

Another nice writeup on the game, and Kyrie.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/recruiting/basketball/mens/news/story?id=4781550


Irving will be the best point guard prospect heading to Duke since Jason Williams laced them up for the Blue Devils. He has great size for the 1 and all the intangibles you could ask for regarding that position. His handle is outstanding; he had a number of dribbling exhibitions in the open court that were simply remarkable. His ball control, tight handle, and precision passing alone will make the Cameron Crazies lose their minds. He can explode to the rim with the best of them, and he can knock down the 3-point jump shot with regularity. He manages the game very well and knows how to get his teammates involved. It will be shocking if he isn't an all-conference performer and possible All-American his freshman season.

[airowe]

And a video for your viewing pleasure:

http://www.ballislife.com/video/torrey-pinesmaxpreps-holiday-1

[Indoor66]

And a video for your viewing pleasure:

http://www.ballislife.com/video/torrey-pinesmaxpreps-holiday-1

How refreshing. A video showing basketball skills rather than a mere assimilation of dunks. Thanks for the video.

[SupaDave]

How refreshing. A video showing basketball skills rather than a mere assimilation of dunks. Thanks for the video.

Did you happen to take a look at the other team? It was like the A team vs the D team. It looked like practice for those guys...

[Indoor66]

Did you happen to take a look at the other team? It was like the A team vs the D team. It looked like practice for those guys...

I was referring to the video - compared to the usual fare of dunk after dunk and the usual description of nasty.

[roywhite]

http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/2009/dec/31/st-patrick-rules-maxpreps/

St. Patrick concluded a dominating MaxPreps tournament with a win in the finals. Kyrie had 20 points and was named MVP.

[SupaDave]

I was referring to the video - compared to the usual fare of dunk after dunk and the usual description of nasty.

Oh I get what you're saying but I'm adding that part of the reason it looked like that is because the other team seemed to have absolutely no answer for Gilchrist or Irving. I would love to have known what that final score was.

They do appear to be an extremely well coached team who decided to respect the other team by continuing to play basketball instead of putting on a dunk contest.

It looks like they were working on a number of things in that game - especially pushing the ball to Gilchrist. I can see Kyrie pushing the ball to the Plumlees in the same manner.

[whereinthehellami]

Thanks for all the updates. I totally agree that its huge for Josh to be playing with Montrose this year. I think that moves his impact at Duke up at least a year.

[airowe]

Tyler Thornton with a dinged up ankle:

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/prepspost-dc/2010/01/thornton_sits_primus-devonish.html#more

Still firmly planted on the Second Team of the All-Met Watch List with UNC recruit Kendall Marshall. Josh is on the 1st team...

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/hssports/longterm/basketball/2009/allmetboyshoops1.html

[soccerstud2210]

Tyler Thornton with a dinged up ankle:

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/prepspost-dc/2010/01/thornton_sits_primus-devonish.html#more

Still firmly planted on the Second Team of the All-Met Watch List with UNC recruit Kendall Marshall. Josh is on the 1st team...

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/hssports/longterm/basketball/2009/allmetboyshoops1.html

noticed that terrance ross is also on the second team with thorton

[airowe]

noticed that terrance ross is also on the second team with thorton

Yep, hopefully that's not the last time they're on the same team together...

A little off topic, (and I'm trying to find a link) but here's a little tidbit about Kendall Marshall:

BY THE NUMBERS:

7:53 ...Amount of time O'Connell H.S. (Kendall Marshall ) held the ball for the final shot of the first half Thursday versus St. Edwards H.S. ( Ohio ). The Knights (O'Connell) led 15 - 14 at the break but went on to lose, 35 - 29.

[Kedsy]

noticed that terrance ross is also on the second team with thorton

I also noticed they list Ross as 6'4" rather than the 6'6" I've seen elsewhere. Does anyone here know which is right?

[yancem]

I also noticed they list Ross as 6'4" rather than the 6'6" I've seen elsewhere. Does anyone here know which is right?

My understanding from other sources is that he's a legit 6'6". That being said, I am always skeptical of listed player heights. I think that there is too much old information as well as too much fudged numbers (note Nelson was listed at 6'4" when he was closer to 6'1").

[BD80]

...here's a little tidbit about Kendall Marshall:

7:53 ...Amount of time O'Connell H.S. (Kendall Marshall ) held the ball for the final shot of the first half Thursday versus St. Edwards H.S. ( Ohio ). The Knights (O'Connell) led 15 - 14 at the break but went on to lose, 35 - 29.

After his team stalled for most of the period, did Marshall panic in the corner and shoot an A-I-I-I-R-R-R-R-R B-A-A-A-L-L-L-L-L-L ?

Sounds like he'll be an old-fashioned kind of heel. Tre Chick.

[Dev11]

I also noticed they list Ross as 6'4" rather than the 6'6" I've seen elsewhere. Does anyone here know which is right?

I was at the Montrose game last night (see my review on the Terrence Ross thread!), and he couldn't have been more than 2 or 3 inches shorter than Hairston (listed 6-8 or 6-9), so I believe he's closer to 6-6. See the Montrose team photo (Hairston is 21, Ross is 32, and 2012 Duke prospect Justin Anderson is 23), he doesn't look much smaller than Hairston:

http://www.montrosebasketball.com/players/DSC_6802.JPG

[ChicagoCrazy84]

Rivals has him listed at 6'5

Good enough for me!

[airowe]

After his team stalled for most of the period, did Marshall panic in the corner and shoot an A-I-I-I-R-R-R-R-R B-A-A-A-L-L-L-L-L-L ?

Sounds like he'll be an old-fashioned kind of heel. Tre Chick.


Seriously. Bishop O'Connell lost that game just like the Holes did in that 4 corners game.

He held the ball for almost 8 mins with his team on a four game losing streak!?!

[Kedsy]

Rivals has him listed at 6'5

Good enough for me!

Well, it depends on how strong and muscular he is. A skinny 6'5" is kind of short for a guy who is supposed to guard forwards like Kyle Singler and Harrison Barnes. It's hardly bigger than Andre Dawkins, who we'll already have. If he's a Nate James 6'5", that's another matter.

And I know it's only an inch between 6'5" and 6'6", but if we're recruiting someone to be the "big wing," then ideally he'd be noticeably bigger than Andre and Nolan, and I would think every inch matters.

[BD80]

Well, it depends on how strong and muscular he is. A skinny 6'5" is kind of short for a guy who is supposed to guard forwards like Kyle Singler and Harrison Barnes. It's hardly bigger than Andre Dawkins, who we'll already have. If he's a Nate James 6'5", that's another matter.

And I know it's only an inch between 6'5" and 6'6", but if we're recruiting someone to be the "big wing," then ideally he'd be noticeably bigger than Andre and Nolan, and I would think every inch matters.

The truly relevant measurement is height at the shoulder, combined with wing span. Ask Elton.

[airowe]

Thornton in action:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orWSwxQa-RI

He's #1 in White.

[roywhite]

After his team stalled for most of the period, did Marshall panic in the corner and shoot an A-I-I-I-R-R-R-R-R B-A-A-A-L-L-L-L-L-L ?

Sounds like he'll be an old-fashioned kind of heel. Tre Chick.

Did you just throw in a Rich "Chick" Yonaker reference?

Excellent. :D

[Dukeface88]

noticed that terrance ross is also on the second team with thorton

And Quinn Cook, one of the players we're looking at for the 2011 class, is on the first team with Hairston.

[roywhite]

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/3005296293773634838/st-patrick-64-linden-44-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

Another good performance by Kyrie Irving; his team was in a tight game and playing without injured star Michael Gilchrist.


But St. Patrick still had Kyrie Irving and, for this night at least, that proved to be enough.

The Duke-bound senior turned in another exquisite performance, leading top-ranked St. Patrick with 31 points, six rebounds, six assists and six steals in a 64-44 victory over No. 11 Linden last night at Kean University in Union.

[DeBlueDevil]

I read about his play in that game without Gilchrist as well...I must say everytime I read about him I get chills thinking about what it will be like to have a great PG again at Duke. Not a knock on anyone we have now or have had but this kid is going to be amazing! He truly is a "Duke kid". Unlike when I read up on Roscoe Smith...I just don't get the same feeling. Has anyone else heard him speak or anything? Just doesn't give you that "Duke kid" kind of feeling...atleast not like HB if I may even mention him. Does anyone else know what I mean?

[CDu]

I read about his play in that game without Gilchrist as well...I must say everytime I read about him I get chills thinking about what it will be like to have a great PG again at Duke. Not a knock on anyone we have now or have had but this kid is going to be amazing! He truly is a "Duke kid". Unlike when I read up on Roscoe Smith...I just don't get the same feeling. Has anyone else heard him speak or anything? Just doesn't give you that "Duke kid" kind of feeling...atleast not like HB if I may even mention him. Does anyone else know what I mean?

I think I know what you mean, but technically our current PG is doing really great things...

[DeBlueDevil]

CDU...I agree totally which is why I said I wasn't knocking on anyone we have now (Scheyer)...but you must agree although he has proven very capable of being a PG, John isn't a pure PG. I'm sure we will all see the difference in ball handling skills once Kyrie steps onto the court next year, if you can't see it now....however I am more then satisfied with Scheyer at the point

[airowe]

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/3005296293773634838/st-patrick-64-linden-44-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

Another good performance by Kyrie Irving; his team was in a tight game and playing without injured star Michael Gilchrist.

Video from last night's game about halfway down the page:

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/

[soccerstud2210]

"when you're in the zone, the basket becomes like water"

haha. love it!

[roywhite]

CDU...I agree totally which is why I said I wasn't knocking on anyone we have now (Scheyer)...but you must agree although he has proven very capable of being a PG, John isn't a pure PG. I'm sure we will all see the difference in ball handling skills once Kyrie steps onto the court next year, if you can't see it now....however I am more then satisfied with Scheyer at the point

How much better does Jon have to play at this position to be considered a very good PG?

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/mensbasketball/acc/2010-01-07-duke-scheyer_N.htm

This USA Today piece compres Jon's stats to the most prominent Point Guards in college basketball today.


Duke's Jon Scheyer has gaudy statistics that rival this season's expected standard-bearers for point guards — John Wall of Kentucky and Sherron Collins of Kansas. How they stack up:

Player Min. Pts. Assists FG 3FG FT Turnovers

Collins 30.5 15.1 4.1 48.40% 41.80% 83.70% 1.9

Scheyer 35.3 19.7 6.2 46.20% 43.20% 91.50% 1.4

Wall 33.5 17.2 7.3 51.90% 39.40% 78.60% 4.1


Welcome to the board, and I share your enthusiasm for Kyrie Irving, but I'd like to see Jon suitably recognized. His numbers should speak for themselves.

[soccerstud2210]

so a couple pages back in this thread someone mentioned coach k at KI game and "watching" gilchrist... are we actively "watching" or recruiting him? anyone know?

[airowe]

so a couple pages back in this thread someone mentioned coach k at KI game and "watching" gilchrist... are we actively "watching" or recruiting him? anyone know?

If Gilchrist wanted to come to Duke, I don't think the staff would have a big problem with it. He is believed to be a strong UK lean, while entertaining Villanova as well. It remains to be seen how serious his injury is though. MRI results were supposed to come back last night, but no reports have surfaced yet how serious it was...

[DeBlueDevil]

RW....totally agreed. I am not taking anything away from Jon...my opinion is he has done a phenomenal job and I admire his ability to take on such a task and you don't have to show me stats for me to understand this, trust me I'm with you on that. My only point was that he isn't a pure PG. I don't believe he was recruited as a PG and for his phenomenal ballhandling skills and in now way am I trying to say KI could do a better job. Just saying, if not for this particular situation we are in with guard shortage I don't believe he would be the PG. Like I've heard he and K say, you really can't designate him as a PG he's just a guard and he makes plays.

Anyways, I'm not trying to turn this thread into a debate about Jon as PG and I thank you for the input but I'll leave you with this last point. If Jon and Kyrie were on the team together who do you believe would be pegged as the PG? My guess is KI.

[soccerstud2210]

If Gilchrist wanted to come to Duke, I don't think the staff would have a big problem with it. He is believed to be a strong UK lean, while entertaining Villanova as well. It remains to be seen how serious his injury is though. MRI results were supposed to come back last night, but no reports have surfaced yet how serious it was...

that's disappointing. UK lean.

you gotta hope and wonder if KI is getting in his ear at all!!! :)

[roywhite]

RW....totally agreed. I am not taking anything away from Jon...my opinion is he has done a phenomenal job and I admire his ability to take on such a task and you don't have to show me stats for me to understand this, trust me I'm with you on that. My only point was that he isn't a pure PG. I don't believe he was recruited as a PG and for his phenomenal ballhandling skills and in now way am I trying to say KI could do a better job. Just saying, if not for this particular situation we are in with guard shortage I don't believe he would be the PG. Like I've heard he and K say, you really can't designate him as a PG he's just a guard and he makes plays.

Anyways, I'm not trying to turn this thread into a debate about Jon as PG and I thank you for the input but I'll leave you with this last point. If Jon and Kyrie were on the team together who do you believe would be pegged as the PG? My guess is KI.

That's a good question, and I really don't know. I suspect it would be two "combo" guards rather than one "point guard" and one "shooting guard".

Next year's backcourt with Kyrie, Nolan, Seth Curry, Andre Dawkins, and Tyler Thornton should be terrific.

[soccerstud2210]

That's a good question, and I really don't know. I suspect it would be two "combo" guards rather than one "point guard" and one "shooting guard".

Next year's backcourt with Kyrie, Nolan, Seth Curry, Andre Dawkins, and Tyler Thornton should be terrific.

just imagined if elliot had stayed!!! man. i miss that kid!

[BD80]

If Gilchrist wanted to come to Duke, I don't think the staff would have a big problem with it. He is believed to be a strong UK lean, while entertaining Villanova as well. It remains to be seen how serious his injury is though. MRI results were supposed to come back last night, but no reports have surfaced yet how serious it was...

Isn't Gilchrist such a strong UK "lean" that other schools are bothering to recruit him at all? I recall a parent (I believe Gilchrist's) complaining that no schools were giving any love to the son because of the impression that he was set on Ky, and the parent claimed that the son was actually "wide open" in his decision. No one took it seriously. World Wide Wes has this one wrapped up and ready to go.

It is interesting that St Patrick's is supposed to be Gilchrist's team this year, last year they had Dexter Strickland as a senior. However, the point guard seems to be winning all of the MOP awards.

Strange to think that we are losing an All American point guard, and yet we'll be a more dynamic (aren't you glad I didn't say athletic?) team next year.



Roywhite: Thanks for acknowledging my tongue in Chick reference.

Wait, that just doesn't sound right ...

[Saratoga2]

RW....totally agreed. I am not taking anything away from Jon...my opinion is he has done a phenomenal job and I admire his ability to take on such a task and you don't have to show me stats for me to understand this, trust me I'm with you on that. My only point was that he isn't a pure PG. I don't believe he was recruited as a PG and for his phenomenal ballhandling skills and in now way am I trying to say KI could do a better job. Just saying, if not for this particular situation we are in with guard shortage I don't believe he would be the PG. Like I've heard he and K say, you really can't designate him as a PG he's just a guard and he makes plays.

Anyways, I'm not trying to turn this thread into a debate about Jon as PG and I thank you for the input but I'll leave you with this last point. If Jon and Kyrie were on the team together who do you believe would be pegged as the PG? My guess is KI.

I would suggest any incoming freshman point guard, no matter how gifted, will have to adapt to college ball and is likely to have problems with ball security. John Wall is a good example. While a terrific talent, he still has issues with turnovers. Jon Scheyer on the other hand has had multiple years of play in college ball and has worked on his skills. My view is that Jon now is superior to what Erving will be in his freshman year and I will reserve judgment on Irving as I hope he will develop into a terrific college point guard.

[roywhite]

http://capitolhoops.org/mtb-mid-season-tournament-2010.htm

Nice article, and video, on Josh Hairston and his Montrose Christian teammates, who include Terrence Ross.

From the article:

Josh Hairston went off against KIMA HS last night in the finale of the MTB Mid-Season Showcase , scoring a tournament high 30pts in the 70-57 win.

700+ crowded the Riverdale Baptist gym , to see the future Duke Blue Devil go on a scoring rampage , missing only four shots on the night , while uncommitted five star recruit Terrence Ross added 22pts.

The transition to Montrose Christian proved to be a smart one for the Virginia native , who's jump shot has improved with leaps and bounds.



In the video, Montrose is in the dark uniforms---Josh is #21, Ross is #32, and sophomore top prospect Justin Anderson is #23.

[InSpades]

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-6994847706817365952/st-patrick-78-trenton-catholic-52-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

Kyrie drops 30 in leading St. Patrick's without Gilchrist.

He appears to be the real deal, not that anyone was doubting it.

[soccerstud2210]

http://capitolhoops.org/mtb-mid-season-tournament-2010.htm

Nice article, and video, on Josh Hairston and his Montrose Christian teammates, who include Terrence Ross.

From the article:


In the video, Montrose is in the dark uniforms---Josh is #21, Ross is #32, and sophomore top prospect Justin Anderson is #23.

hairston is going to be sick. super excited for this kid coming in.

[flyingdutchdevil]

hairston is going to be sick. super excited for this kid coming in.

Can't you visualize Kyrie driving to the hole, jumping for a lay-up, dishing to Hairston at the last second, who then shoots a short jumper for an easy 2?.....

Okay...back to this season!!!

[airowe]

Not sure if this link is any different than the one roywhite posted but:

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-6994846706820365930/st-patrick-78-trenton-catholic-52-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

I agree with soccerstud too, Hairston is going to be a big pickup for us next year. Seems he can play inside and out and can play both the 3 and the 4 if needed.

[roywhite]

Not sure if this link is any different than the one roywhite posted but:
http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-6994846706820365930/st-patrick-78-trenton-catholic-52-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

I agree with soccerstud too, Hairston is going to be a big pickup for us next year. Seems he can play inside and out and can play both the 3 and the 4 if needed.

That's a new one. So many 30-point games to keep track of. :)

Just my guess, but I wouldn't be surprised to see Kyrie Irving climb to the top of the ratings of the 2010 class, or at least past a certain prospect from Ames, Iowa.

Kyrie is playing at a really high level against good competition.

[soccerstud2210]

KI is another one to be excited about. i know there are a lot of mixed feeling about follow recruits or players on twitter, but i do. and KI just seems like a hungry and humble kid (just like his signature on twitter) he rarely is ever cocky or boastful or anything like that. which now a days, is rare for a top talent in high school.

i love quincy miller, but there is a big difference in those two. dont get me wrong i really really want quincy to come to duke! but there is a big difference between the two individuals!

again, this is all just through comment of the TWIT world :) never met either in person

[soccerstud2210]

Can't you visualize Kyrie driving to the hole, jumping for a lay-up, dishing to Hairston at the last second, who then shoots a short jumper for an easy 2?.....

Okay...back to this season!!!

that is what i was thinking about when i was watching that video of the game. and he had all those oops!

i think we will hear, "Irving to Hairston for the monster dunk!" a lot

[airowe]

Tyler Thornton's Gonzaga team took it to Kendall Marshall's (UNC) Bishop O'Connell team tonight. Tyler outscored Kendall 19 - 12.

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/hss/scores/boys-basketball/oconnell/gonzaga/2010/01/11/#score

[airowe]

Interviews with Josh Hairston, Terrence Ross, and Tyler Thonrton among others...

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/hssports/longterm/allmets/winter09/basketballboys/index.html

[airowe]

Happy Birthday Josh!

AlanStein I want to wish a very Happy 18th Birthday to Montrose senior (and Duke bound) Josh Hairston.

[InSpades]

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-3437641574699020163/st-patrick-82-hun-48-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

Ho-hum. Kyrie scores another 30 points. He really needs to step up his game. 30 points just isn't as exciting when you do it every game.

[RainingThrees]

Or at least add to that 30 points with around 10 assists, 7 steals, 5 rebounds, and a couple blocks. We can't be a one-dimensional team you know :D

[rotogod00]

Thornton had 25 pts and 3 dimes last nite

[rotogod00]

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-3437641574699020163/st-patrick-82-hun-48-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

Ho-hum. Kyrie scores another 30 points. He really needs to step up his game. 30 points just isn't as exciting when you do it every game.

i like that he's an equal opportunity scorer: 5 from 2, 4 from 3, and 8 from the stripe

[roywhite]

Kyrie and St. Patrick are on TV this coming Monday 1/18 (MLK Birthday), I believe. ESPN-U (or one of the Worldwide Leader channels, I believe it's ESPN-U) is carrying 4 top high school games. Don't have the listing handy, but I believe St. Patrick plays at 2:00 PM Eastern.

Certainly looking forward to seeing him play.

[jimrowe0]

It will be on ESPNU. I have it recording, it should be a great game.

Also Thorton's team will be playing Austin Rivers team tommorow on

Packnetwork.tv. at 5:30 pm Eastern time.

Make sure you check out both games.

[airowe]

Kyrie and St. Patrick are on TV this coming Monday 1/18 (MLK Birthday), I believe. ESPN-U (or one of the Worldwide Leader channels, I believe it's ESPN-U) is carrying 4 top high school games. Don't have the listing handy, but I believe St. Patrick plays at 2:00 PM Eastern.

Certainly looking forward to seeing him play.

St. Patrick's plays a great Findlay Prep team at 3 EST.

If you want to get a glimpse of UNC's new point guard see Bishop O' Connell at 11:00AM.

[roywhite]

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-8437786575367020995/st-patrick-70-christian-brothers-50-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

Kyrie Irving had 24 points to lead St. Patrick to 10-0 record; junior Michael Gilchrist is returning to form after an injury. Look forward to the game Monday on ESPNU.

[jimrowe0]

http://coachesaid.com/Blog/Ben-Larsen/2010/1/16/Hoophall-Day-2-Winter-Park-loses-Rivers-but-hangs-on-to-slide-by-Gonzaga

Austin River's Winterpark team edges Thorton's Gonzaga team in the hoophall classic 73-69.

Thorton had 18 points but didn't shoot well going 8-21
Rivers had 21 on 7-14 shooting, but went down with an ankle injury with about 6 minutes left.

[jimsumner]

For the record, it's Tyler Thornton.

[gotham devil]

If you want to get a glimpse of UNC's new point guard see Bishop O' Connell at 11:00AM.
To get more specific, he'll be the kid getting blazed by Myck Kabongo.

[rotogod00]

Gonzaga rolled by Bishop Ireton 74-50 on Friday night behind 26 points from Duke recruit Tyler Thornton. The 6-foot-2 point guard added four rebounds and four assists.

[AlaskanAssassin]

ugh

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-921194040519815861/nj-boys-basketball-st-benedicts-beats-gilchrist-less-st-patrick-65-64/

[AlaskanAssassin]

``Now I want to know who the best guard in New Jersey is?’’ Kabongo said after scoring 10 of his 14 points in the fourth quarter and spending the entire evening covering St. Patrick star guard Kyrie Irving.

``Everybody says it’s him and I got a case for it.’’


``I took it personal,’’ Kabongo said. ``He’s (Irving) going to Duke. I felt I had to represent my school and my country of Canada.’’

(sorry, I wanted to add this, but couldn't edit my last post, anyone know why?)

[oldnavy]

``Now I want to know who the best guard in New Jersey is?’’ Kabongo said after scoring 10 of his 14 points in the fourth quarter and spending the entire evening covering St. Patrick star guard Kyrie Irving.

``Everybody says it’s him and I got a case for it.’’

Sounds more like he has a case OF it.

[ChicagoCrazy84]

``Now I want to know who the best guard in New Jersey is?’’ Kabongo said after scoring 10 of his 14 points in the fourth quarter and spending the entire evening covering St. Patrick star guard Kyrie Irving.

``Everybody says it’s him and I got a case for it.’’

Sounds more like he has a case OF it.


Well said oldnavy.

Sorry Myck, well done on the game, but like the article said, I don't think he is going to lose many supporters with a 26pt effort. I am pretty positive that St. Pats would've won if Gilchrist played and Myck wouldn't have said a word about this.

[ChicagoCrazy84]

Gonzaga rolled by Bishop Ireton 74-50 on Friday night behind 26 points from Duke recruit Tyler Thornton. The 6-foot-2 point guard added four rebounds and four assists.

That a boy Ty! Way to bounce back after a tough loss.

[airowe]

Montrose Christian rides 25 points from Josh Hairston including 3 three-pointers to a 76-70 overtime win.

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/hss/scores/boys-basketball/montrose-christian/kecoughtan/2010/01/23/

[rotogod00]

Montrose Christian rides 25 points from Josh Hairston including 3 three-pointers to a 76-70 overtime win.

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/hss/scores/boys-basketball/montrose-christian/kecoughtan/2010/01/23/

solid game. averaging almost 22 a game.

[airowe]

Kyrie Video:

http://video.msg.com/Videos/MSG-Local-Sports/HS-Weekly-Part-2-1-12

He's #11 in white...

[Starter]

Longtime fan/friend of the site, generally lurk and enjoy reading the discussions but feel like getting involved lately. (I had a name I used to post with but can't remember it, so starting fresh) Looking forward to whetting my appetite for intelligent talk about Duke, which I don't often get up north.

I live in New Jersey and got back into writing this year, so I have been going to some of Kyrie Irving's games, writing them up and taking some pictures -- I thought you guys might enjoy my writeup of yesterday's game. I think Irving's going to be a terrific player for Duke and I'm ecstatic to see the Irving-Smith-Curry backcourt next season. Feedback is more than welcome. :cool:

http://bit.ly/60GIhP

Also -- if you live in New Jersey and have IO/Cablevision, the game is airing Tuesday at 8 p.m. on MSG Varsity (Channels 14/614)

[Aditya]

ESPN updated their rankings today

Kyrie Irving is #4
Joshua Hairston jumped up to #18
Terrence Ross is #26
Trey Zeigler is #30

http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recruiting/tracker/espnu100?&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fncb %2frecruiting%2ftracker%2fespnu100

[SupaDave]

Well said oldnavy.

Sorry Myck, well done on the game, but like the article said, I don't think he is going to lose many supporters with a 26pt effort. I am pretty positive that St. Pats would've won if Gilchrist played and Myck wouldn't have said a word about this.

I know they won and all but who talks trash after getting 26 dropped on him?

[airowe]

Kyrie dropped 10 dimes in an 83-30 win last night. (http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/7322826283394909513/st-patrick-83-scotch-plains-30-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/)

[Mr Blue Devil]

Man tough loss for Montrose. 59-57, they missed a last second shot to tie.

Josh tweaked his ankle a few days ago and had to play a lot more last night for the win then they wanted so he wasn't up to speed this game. He still played all 32 minutes. He still played very well in the second half.

Anderson is awesome. Explosive, strong, just needs to work on his right hand. He had a monster dunk from under the basket and got could for a big 3 point play near the end.

Ross is very quick and can create his own shot. He shot very well from the 3 tonight. 50% if I had to guess.

They'll play for third tomorrow against Arlington Country Day from Jax.

Solomon Alabi was there tonight too.

[whereinthehellami]

Man tough loss for Montrose. 59-57, they missed a last second shot to tie.

Josh tweaked his ankle a few days ago and had to play a lot more last night for the win then they wanted so he wasn't up to speed this game. He still played all 32 minutes. He still played very well in the second half.

Anderson is awesome. Explosive, strong, just needs to work on his right hand. He had a monster dunk from under the basket and got could for a big 3 point play near the end.

Ross is very quick and can create his own shot. He shot very well from the 3 tonight. 50% if I had to guess.

They'll play for third tomorrow against Arlington Country Day from Jax.

Solomon Alabi was there tonight too.

What is Montrose's record now?

[jimrowe0]

Not sure, but I know they lost that third place game as well.

[jimrowe0]

Looks like 13-3 from what I saw on Max Preps.

[jimrowe0]

Kyrie's last game...looks like the whole team played he had 12 points
http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-3677209716581090323/st-patrick-69-lawrenceville-49-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

[soccerstud2210]

Kyrie's last game...looks like the whole team played he had 12 points
http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-3677209716581090323/st-patrick-69-lawrenceville-49-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

mediocre game from our guy. :)

i really hope he's getting in gilchrist's ear. would love him to show some interest in duke!

[DeBlueDevil]

Seems like Kyrie's team is under a little heat for possibly having practices before they were allowed (see the link):

http://www.dukebasketballreport.com/articles/?p=31650

Don't believe this will affect Kyrie other than have to give up some wins in his senior year. Tough break.

[jimrowe0]

Game alert...Friday. Kyrie Irving and St. Patrick take on Doron Lamb and Roscoe Smith's Oak Hill Academy. Details below:

Old Spice High School Showcase presented by Gatorade - Oak Hill Academy (VA) vs. St. Patrick (NJ) on ESPN U Friday Feb. 14th at 9pm.

[jimrowe0]

Game alert...Friday. Kyrie Irving and St. Patrick take on Doron Lamb and Roscoe Smith's Oak Hill Academy. Details below:

Old Spice High School Showcase presented by Gatorade - Oak Hill Academy (VA) vs. St. Patrick (NJ) on ESPN U Friday Feb. 14th at 9pm.

Reminder...set the DVR for ESPNU tonight at 9pm

[airowe]

LIB:

http://www.youtube.com/shooterstouch1

[DeBlueDevil]

Nice link....as selfish as this sounds...I'm almost somewhat happy his team can't play in the state tournament...less chance for him to get hurt ;)

[soccerstud2210]

hahahaha i just watched this video like 5 times. even got my finance to watch it and she had a great laugh too! :)

[RainingThrees]

hahahaha i just watched this video like 5 times. even got my finance to watch it and she had a great laugh too! :)

I actually feel bad for the player that got crossed. That is just embarrassing and he will hear that from his teammates for a long time.

[Starter]

The whole place was buzzing for literally five minutes after that. That "OOOHHHHH" you hear was repeated when they replayed it on the big screen.

[G man]

Man that ankle looked like it took a beating in that cross!

[flyingdutchdevil]

From ESPN:

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/recruiting/basketball/mens/news/story?id=4915959

My favorite quote: "His talent is simply overwhelming as he literally has no weakness on the offensive end."

Can you imagine all the teams that are going to be so pissed off with a Irving and Nolan backcourt? That thought just made my day.

[airowe]

Kyrie goes out with a bang:

http://highschoolsports.nj.com/news/article/-4563057453533400391/st-patrick-82-plainfield-45-high-school-boys-basketball-scores-and-results/

13 -15 from the field, 30 points.

Hopefully, he gets to play some more games. We'll find out Monday...

[RainingThrees]

Despite his 16 points Tyler Thornton's team lost to Dematha in the WCAC finals. Although he would have liked to win congrats to him and we''ll see you at Duke next year.

[roywhite]

Despite his 16 points Tyler Thornton's team lost to Dematha in the WCAC finals. Although he would have liked to win congrats to him and we''ll see you at Duke next year.

Here's a link to an account of that game.

http://dcsportsfan.com/article.aspx?aid=3408

Don't have a link, but I've read that Thornton was selected to the WCAC All-Conference 1st team ahead of Kendall Marshall. To be fair, Marshall's team was not as good overall, finishing at .500 in the very difficult Washington Area Catholic league; they did win a VA state championship in a small school division.

High school all-star games like the McDonald's game are often sloppy, but I'm curious to see Kyrie Irving, Thornton, and Marshall perform and get some idea of their relative talent. Thornton won't be in the Mc-D game, but I believe is in a DC-based all-star game.

[MChambers]

High school all-star games like the McDonald's game are often sloppy, but I'm curious to see Kyrie Irving, Thornton, and Marshall perform and get some idea of their relative talent. Thornton won't be in the Mc-D game, but I believe is in a DC-based all-star game.

The DC game is not what it once was, when players like Ralph Sampson and Grant Hill were in it. Two years ago, the MVP was Olek Czyz.

[roywhite]

http://www.afro.com/sections/sports/story.htm?storyid=322

Nice end to Tyler Thornton's high school season, as his Gonzaga team nipped DeMatha in tournament play.


But even DeMatha’s dynamic duo had to take a backseat to Lindsay, who finished with 14 points, and fellow senior Tyler Thornton, who had 13 points. The Duke-bound Thornton closed his Gonzaga career in fine fashion, collecting five rebounds, three assists, two blocks and four steals to go along with his steady poise and leadership throughout the game.

“Not a lot of people get to say they’ve won one of these tournaments so to get to win three I feel honored and I feel blessed to have the teammates and the coaches that we have,” Thornton said. “To have it against DeMatha, that’s our biggest rival and the last game of my career, [it’s] no better way to go out.”

[-bdbd]

As many of you will recall, several years back Duke had a commitment from a 6'7" PG by the name of Shaun Livingston, who wound up going straight to the NBA (lottery pick). It is hard to imagine the difference he could have made overlapping the Paulus PG years. But I thought I'd share a taste (see link). It is great to see him coming back from that horrific knee injury while playing for the Clippers (mith Corey and Elton, and for Coach Dunleavy) a couple years ago...


http://voices.washingtonpost.com/wizardsinsider/2010/03/shaun-livingstons-sick-baselin.html?wpisrc=nl_sports

[rotogod00]

As many of you will recall, several years back Duke had a commitment from a 6'7" PG by the name of Shaun Livingston, who wound up going straight to the NBA (lottery pick). It is hard to imagine the difference he could have made overlapping the Paulus PG years. But I thought I'd share a taste (see link). It is great to see him coming back from that horrific knee injury while playing for the Clippers (mith Corey and Elton, and for Coach Dunleavy) a couple years ago...


http://voices.washingtonpost.com/wizardsinsider/2010/03/shaun-livingstons-sick-baselin.html?wpisrc=nl_sports

amazing that he's still only 24 years old

[JohnGalt]

It is great to see him coming back from that horrific knee injury while playing for the Clippers [/url]

Worse than McGahee's knee, worse than Theisman's leg, the absolute worst injury I've ever seen. How on earth can that happen without any contact? Moreover, how on earth could anyone come back?

Kudos to him for battling the way he must have...

[airowe]

Tyler Thornton's Gatorade D.C. Player of the Year Award:

http://cdn.cloudfiles.mosso.com/c54102/x2_f91d6b

[Kedsy]

Tyler Thornton's Gatorade D.C. Player of the Year Award:


A lot of people don't think he'll play much next year. Are we selling him short as a recruit and contributor?

[airowe]

A lot of people don't think he'll play much next year. Are we selling him short as a recruit and contributor?

I think he would play a lot on other teams, but he is coming into a crowded backcourt, with a Top 5 player directly in front of him in the same class. He knew all of that when he was being recruited though so it's not as if he was duped into coming here.

I think Tyler will be a valuable contributor off the bench for a few mpg next season, and depending on what happens after next year, will continue to get more and more minutes. He is built like a tank and is a very strong defender. He plays a lot better in the half court than he does in an open-court type game.

We are very lucky to have him.

[CDu]

A lot of people don't think he'll play much next year. Are we selling him short as a recruit and contributor?

I don't think people are selling him short. I think that given the fact that we'll likely be competing with the following:

1. a senior All-ACC lead guard
2. a potential scoring machine transfer who has had a year of practice with the team
3. a top-5 PG recruit who is considered by some to be the top PG recruit in the country
4. a sharpshooter who has a year of practice and ACC play under his belt (albeit in limited minutes).

It's simply a matter of the amount of competition for minutes. I will say that if Thornton can earn minutes in that group, that's potentially a really great sign about where the team will be next year (assuming no injuries, of course).

[BD80]

There were a couple of years when the most competition that Duke faced throughout the year was in practice. We could easily be headed that way next year, particularly if Kyle returns.

[DeBlueDevil]

IMO...I think Ty will get some minutes here and there in games. I'm interested to see how K uses our depth next year. Since we will have a lot of depth at the guard position I think we will definitely get back to pressuring the ball more and a more up tempo style of play.....with that said....I think we platoon a lot of the time with our guards....obviously Nolan and Kyrie get the green light as starters but i think we let them play all out as hard as they can for as long as they can and keep subing in and out....I don't think opponents will be able to keep up with that at all...constant harrassment

[proelitedota]

With these many talented guards, I don't see why we will ever start a small-foward. I hope we don't get too reliant on our back court like Villanova was these past few years.

[airowe]

With these many talented guards, I don't see why we will ever start a small-foward. I hope we don't get too reliant on our back court like Villanova was these past few years.

You don't think Kyle will start next year? ;)

[proelitedota]

You don't think Kyle will start next year? ;)
He'll be playing the 4 if he starts.

[chrisheery]

He'll be playing the 4 if he starts.

Maybe. Or maybe not. Depends on matchups I would bet.

[cwaugh]

He'll be playing the 4 if he starts.

if he starts? I don't think there is a question about whether he starts or not ;)

[licc85]

I think we are starting Miles & Mason both, with kyle reprising his role as a perimeter player (if he comes back). It would be too much to ask of him to return to his former role as a 4 when he's finally learned to thrive at the 3. Honestly, the only reason he would even come back is to improve his draft stock, and playing at the 4 will only hurt his chances at the next level, where he will clearly be a 3. Mason is clearly our most talented returning big man and miles has improved greatly thus far, and I believe he will improve even more this summer. I see no reason to start 3 guards with the experience and athleticism we have up front. seth, dre, and tyler will be valuable contributors off the bench for our backcourt and ryan, carrick, and josh will back up our guys up front. I can really see us going 10 or 11 deep next year, with a serviceable backup at every position. If Kyle returns, we will be the team to beat not just in the ACC, but in the nation.

here's what i think our depth chart will look like:

C: Mason Plumlee, Ryan Kelly
PF: Miles Plumlee, Josh Hairston
SF: Kyle Singler, Carrick Felix
SG: Nolan Smith, Seth Curry/Andre Dawkins
PG: Kyrie Irving, Tyler Thornton

our second unit with kyle on the bench would obviously be a 3 guard lineup

[bluedevil2012]

here's what i think our depth chart will look like:

C: Mason Plumlee, Ryan Kelly
PF: Miles Plumlee, Josh Hairston
SF: Kyle Singler, Carrick Felix
SG: Nolan Smith, Seth Curry/Andre Dawkins
PG: Kyrie Irving, Tyler Thornton

our second unit with kyle on the bench would obviously be a 3 guard lineup

That is way too much talent coming off the bench in the backcourt. I think our team is much better served with Seth starting than Miles, even if it means Kyle has to play the 4. In addition, I don't think we want to use Andre as the number 3 option at SG. I'd like to see us start with 3 guards, and then sub in Miles for a guard as needed, and of course rotate in Andre, Hairston, Kelly, Felix and Thornton in that order. Of course that order is just my speculation, and would change as the guys get to campus and show us what they can do. Either way, I hope Coach K uses his bench like we haven't seen in years.

But if it turns out that we need more size in our starting lineup, I wouldn't be surprised if Coach K resorts to the traditional 2 guard lineup that you laid out above.

On a related note, I don't know if any of you guys saw this in the N&O, but it's a good summary of what we should hope to see next year:


It would qualify as a shock at this point if Singler, whose lack of quickness was exposed in his transition to the "3," left for the NBA. With Singler back, Duke surrounds him with outstanding freshman point guard Kyrie Irving, shooting guards Nolan Smith and Seth Curry and either Plumlee Brother No. 1 or No. 2.
The other Plumlee Brother, Andre Dawkins and Ryan Kelly will provide relief (and mostly size) off the bench.
If Irving is half as good as the previous Duke point guards from New Jersey (Bobby Hurley and Jason Williams), you can book your Final Four tickets in Houston now, Duke fans.
The real beauty of Duke's lineup is Curry gets to be Curry. Certainly, Mike Krzyzewski will implore the Liberty transfer to play defense, but when a player of that caliber (20.2 points per game as a freshman) can just shoot and not worry about anything else (see Wayne Ellington), that's the difference between a good team and a great team.

http://blogs.newsobserver.com/accnow/early-2011-hoop-thoughts-the-good-bad-and-maybe

[Indoor66]

That is way too much talent coming off the bench in the backcourt. I think our team is much better served with Seth starting than Miles, even if it means Kyle has to play the 4. In addition, I don't think we want to use Andre as the number 3 option at SG. I'd like to see us start with 3 guards, and then sub in Miles for a guard as needed, and of course rotate in Andre, Hairston, Kelly, Felix and Thornton in that order. Of course that order is just my speculation, and would change as the guys get to campus and show us what they can do. Either way, I hope Coach K uses his bench like we haven't seen in years.

But if it turns out that we need more size in our starting lineup, I wouldn't be surprised if Coach K resorts to the traditional 2 guard lineup that you laid out above.

On a related note, I don't know if any of you guys saw this in the N&O, but it's a good summary of what we should hope to see next year:



http://blogs.newsobserver.com/accnow/early-2011-hoop-thoughts-the-good-bad-and-maybe

Nobody plays for Coach K without playing strong defense, NOBODY.

[JohnGalt]

Nobody plays for Coach K without playing strong defense, NOBODY.

Agreed. This gentleman is familiar with the personnel that will be in Durham next year, but not the system. Those who refuse to play D will ride the P.

[Newton_14]

here's what i think our depth chart will look like:

C: Mason Plumlee, Ryan Kelly
PF: Miles Plumlee, Josh Hairston
SF: Kyle Singler, Carrick Felix
SG: Nolan Smith, Seth Curry/Andre Dawkins
PG: Kyrie Irving, Tyler Thornton

our second unit with kyle on the bench would obviously be a 3 guard lineup

Miles is not a 4 and will never play the 4 next year. Miles will be the only true 5 on the roster. We will see Miles either start at the 5 with Mason being his only back up there or Mason starting at the 5 with Miles backing him up.

Mason will see time at both the 4 and 5 with most of his minutes likely coming at the 4. Kelly will also play the 4 and is too small to play the 5. At least next year anyway. If Kelly can add weight year over year, he may see spot duty at the 5 his Jr and Sr years, but most likely will always be a 4.

The thing is, K will have many many options next year. With the backcourt loaded with a mixture of quick/fast/strong guards K will go back to pressuring the heck out of the ball coast to coast. I can't wait to see it personally.

Because of that, I could see Thornton getting a few more minutes than maybe we expect. Especially late in games if we need to pressure hard.

It is just an exciting future! I really hope Kyle comes back and I think he will since the current projections do not have him going high enough to warrant giving up what he will be giving up..

One other thing, I know at times we will see 3 guards on the floor, but I think K is loving having interior defense and rebounding be a strength this year and I imagine that may lead to him wanting 2 bigs on the floor in most cases next year. We will certainly have enough talented bigs to do that as well.

[Acymetric]

I think we are starting Miles & Mason both, with kyle reprising his role as a perimeter player (if he comes back). It would be too much to ask of him to return to his former role as a 4 when he's finally learned to thrive at the 3. Honestly, the only reason he would even come back is to improve his draft stock, and playing at the 4 will only hurt his chances at the next level, where he will clearly be a 3. Mason is clearly our most talented returning big man and miles has improved greatly thus far, and I believe he will improve even more this summer. I see no reason to start 3 guards with the experience and athleticism we have up front. seth, dre, and tyler will be valuable contributors off the bench for our backcourt and ryan, carrick, and josh will back up our guys up front. I can really see us going 10 or 11 deep next year, with a serviceable backup at every position. If Kyle returns, we will be the team to beat not just in the ACC, but in the nation.

here's what i think our depth chart will look like:

C: Mason Plumlee, Ryan Kelly
PF: Miles Plumlee, Josh Hairston
SF: Kyle Singler, Carrick Felix
SG: Nolan Smith, Seth Curry/Andre Dawkins
PG: Kyrie Irving, Tyler Thornton

our second unit with kyle on the bench would obviously be a 3 guard lineup

Well I can tell you Seth will be at least occasionally running the point. I would also say a lot of this depends on a) Kyle coming back and b) the Plumlees both making big strides in the off season. Even with both of those I think it'll be hard to keep Seth on the bench.

[tallguy]

I think next year's team would be uniquely suited for running Calipari's dribble drive system. A three guard line up with Singler and Mason at the 4 and 5 would the perfect lineup for the DD offense, because all 5 players would able to easily take their man off the dribble.

Cal really hasn't run a true version of it in awhile due to the types of players he's had (you don't run it with two legit bigs like Cousins and Patterson)...but K could next year, at least with a line up at the 4, and we all know that K is open to adjusting the offense to the personnel on hand. Plus it doesn't force Singler into playing like a traditional 4 in the offense.

Just some food for thought.

[CDu]

I think we'll see a 3-man rotation involving three of Smith/Curry/Irving/Thornton, with the fourth getting very limited minutes next year. I don't think we'll see much of the three small guard lineup on the court though, especially if Singler returns. I think Singler and Dawkins will see the majority of the time at the 3.

I think the 4 spot will be manned by Mason, Kelly, Hairston, and occasionally Singler, and the 5 will be manned by the Plumlee brothers.

I can't really see us going super small with three guards 6'3" or shorter on the floor together. In any case, I don't think depth will be a problem at any spot on the floor.

That said, obviously we have no idea what will happen until (a) we know who all will be playing and (b) we see how those guys play together.

[roywhite]

The idea of Nolan Smith and Kyrie Irving playing together brings thoughts of Dawkins and Amaker....multi-skilled guys with great quickness.

Johnny and Tommy were deadly in forcing turnovers with two-man traps. And they were such smart players that Coach K let them free-lance a lot.

We should be able to pressure the ball on defense and push tempo on offense. Could be a high-scoring team.

[proelitedota]

I think we'll see a 3-man rotation involving three of Smith/Curry/Irving/Thornton, with the fourth getting very limited minutes next year. I don't think we'll see much of the three small guard lineup on the court though, especially if Singler returns. I think Singler and Dawkins will see the majority of the time at the 3.

I think the 4 spot will be manned by Mason, Kelly, Hairston, and occasionally Singler, and the 5 will be manned by the Plumlee brothers.

I can't really see us going super small with three guards 6'3" or shorter on the floor together. In any case, I don't think depth will be a problem at any spot on the floor.

That said, obviously we have no idea what will happen until (a) we know who all will be playing and (b) we see how those guys play together.

Exactly what I was trying to get at, we're sacrificing a lot of size by having 3 6-1" players on the court. With the recent success brought about by rebounding, I doubt we want to return to 06-09 form. All our championship teams featured only 2 starting guards, here's to hoping that this year's team is the same case.

[licc85]

The idea of Nolan Smith and Kyrie Irving playing together brings thoughts of Dawkins and Amaker....multi-skilled guys with great quickness.

Johnny and Tommy were deadly in forcing turnovers with two-man traps. And they were such smart players that Coach K let them free-lance a lot.

We should be able to pressure the ball on defense and push tempo on offense. Could be a high-scoring team.

I agree with this.

On the plumlees, I just think they have such great chemistry together when they are both on the floor, it would be a shame for them to only spell each other while one is on the bench. When i put seth/andre as the backup 2 guards, I'd still consider them higher up on the rotation than carrick obviously, dre will play the 3 while singler is on the bench.

regarding singler: If he's just going to move back to the 4, I think he'd rather just go pro, I honestly think it would be detrimental to his game to have to play inside and bang with other ACC bigs all season long again. Ryan will hopefully put on a few pounds in the offseason (a la Horvath), which will allow him to really get in the rotation as a 4, and keep singler in his natural position.

As far as the rotation goes, I see kyle, kyrie and nolan all playing 30+ minutes, which really only leaves around 60-70 available minutes for bench players, assuming the other 2 starters play around 20 minutes. Whoever steps up on defense will earn a spot, and someone is going to be sitting on the bench more than they are accustomed to.

[dukelifer]

Exactly what I was trying to get at, we're sacrificing a lot of size by having 3 6-1" players on the court. With the recent success brought about by rebounding, I doubt we want to return to 06-09 form. All our championship teams featured only 2 starting guards, here's to hoping that this year's team is the same case.

A Blue and a white team - K will play 10 guys, each team 20 minutes, and no one on DBR will gripe again. :)

[-bdbd]

I agree with this.

On the plumlees, I just think they have such great chemistry together when they are both on the floor, it would be a shame for them to only spell each other while one is on the bench. When i put seth/andre as the backup 2 guards, I'd still consider them higher up on the rotation than carrick obviously, dre will play the 3 while singler is on the bench.

regarding singler: If he's just going to move back to the 4, I think he'd rather just go pro, I honestly think it would be detrimental to his game to have to play inside and bang with other ACC bigs all season long again. Ryan will hopefully put on a few pounds in the offseason (a la Horvath), which will allow him to really get in the rotation as a 4, and keep singler in his natural position.

As far as the rotation goes, I see kyle, kyrie and nolan all playing 30+ minutes, which really only leaves around 60-70 available minutes for bench players, assuming the other 2 starters play around 20 minutes. Whoever steps up on defense will earn a spot, and someone is going to be sitting on the bench more than they are accustomed to.

Good thoughts licc85. I sure hope Ryan can add the weight, muscle and develop an attitude for banging. If not, AND Kyle goes pro (I hope not!) then we are dangerously thin with interior players. If Kyle has any more games like the Baylor one, the whole "is he going pro" discussion will be moot. He is such a special player, I really hope that we get to see him around here for another year, and playing with a stud PG - Irving. Could be really fun...

As for the minutes discussion next year, remember that K will generally play the five best players, regardless of position. So don't be surprised to see us start and play many/most minutes with, essentially, three guards on the floor. My gut says we see a starting three guards of Irving, Smith, and Curry. (Can Curry guard 6' 6" swings?) With Dawkins quick off the bench. Then up front the two Plumlees start -- or Kyle and one of the MP's -- with the other and Ryan obviously in the rotation. It'll be great to see how Felix and Hairston fit in for minutes. Hmmm.

[COYS]

A Blue and a white team - K will play 10 guys, each team 20 minutes, and no one on DBR will gripe again. :)

I think we can be absolutely certain that the blue/white game next year will be absolutely nuts.

[airowe]

I think next year's team would be uniquely suited for running Calipari's dribble drive system. A three guard line up with Singler and Mason at the 4 and 5 would the perfect lineup for the DD offense, because all 5 players would able to easily take their man off the dribble.


Calipari didn't invent the Dribble Drive Offense anymore than Dean Smith invented the Four Corners. K has been running that system for years when he has the correct personnel, Calipari just claims to have created it.

You are correct though that we will have the horses to run it next year and it should make for some very entertaining and high scoring games.

[licc85]

My gut says we see a starting three guards of Irving, Smith, and Curry. (Can Curry guard 6' 6" swings?) With Dawkins quick off the bench.

I love curry, he's a pure scorer, but he's only 6'1", and if we went with that lineup, it would be 6'1", 6'1", 6'2" in our backcourt, and with kyle as an undersized 4, that would be the smallest starting lineup in the ACC. Curry will get major minutes, no doubt, but he's going to have to come off the bench because of size issues.

[airowe]

I love curry, he's a pure scorer, but he's only 6'1", and if we went with that lineup, it would be 6'1", 6'1", 6'2" in our backcourt, and with kyle as an undersized 4, that would be the smallest starting lineup in the ACC. Curry will get major minutes, no doubt, but he's going to have to come off the bench because of size issues.

Irving would be the tallest of the three at 6'3" or 6'4" depending on who you ask.

[JohnGalt]

Irving would be the tallest of the three at 6'3" or 6'4" depending on who you ask.

Has he grown? Scout and Rivals have him listed shorter than that meaning he's probably closer to the 6' range. Anyhow, rumor has it that Hairston's grown in size and bulk so if Kyrie has grown a few too, all the better.

[CDu]

Irving would be the tallest of the three at 6'3" or 6'4" depending on who you ask.

Or 6'1" or 6'2". Again, depending upon whom you ask:
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/recruiting/player-Kyrie-Irving-85480
http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recruiting/tracker/player?recruitId=55821&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fncb %2frecruiting%2ftracker%2fplayer%3frecruitId%3d558 21
http://scouthoops.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=8&c=1&nid=3827088

[Saratoga2]

Has he grown? Scout and Rivals have him listed shorter than that meaning he's probably closer to the 6' range. Anyhow, rumor has it that Hairston's grown in size and bulk so if Kyrie has grown a few too, all the better.

The McDonalds site list Irving at 6'3" for what it is worth. I think we will see Irving and Smith be the starters, but we will have the luxury to rest them while Curry and Thornton can spell them. We also will have the luxury of bringing in a solid shooter in Curry, when we need points. That is not to mention in case of foul trouble or injury. We should be in a position to run and up tempo game and also press.

At the 3, I think it will be Singler, with Dawkins getting solid minutes and growing into the position. Carrick is there but may also be used inside to give us an extremely quick team in a press situation.

The Plumlees have shown growth as the season has worn on and should be much improved next year. Hairston is an unknown but has size and should be good and Kelly is likely to put on weight to go with his savy play.

There is no hole on the team, although it might be tough to find PT. I expect coach K to use his bench a lot and move to the up tempo/pressing concept and wear out the less complete teams.

[CDu]

regarding singler: If he's just going to move back to the 4, I think he'd rather just go pro, I honestly think it would be detrimental to his game to have to play inside and bang with other ACC bigs all season long again. Ryan will hopefully put on a few pounds in the offseason (a la Horvath), which will allow him to really get in the rotation as a 4, and keep singler in his natural position.

Note that playing the 4 doesn't mean Singler would just go back to banging. He'd play the same game he's played this year. He'd just be guarded by bigger players. And in fact, I'd argue that Singler's natural position in college is the 4 (as a face-up 4). I think people are getting hung up on what he had to do as a freshman and sophomore. In those years, he actually defended the 5 a lot (because Thomas struggled with the bigger, more physical 5s).

What I think will happen is that we'll see Singler mostly at the 3. However, I would anticipate seeing him some at the floor as we exploit a smaller, quicker lineup with Dawkins or Felix (at the 3).

This is, of course, contingent upon Singler returning, which is certainly not a given.

[theAlaskanBear]

How certain are we that Singler will be back next year? This team will be good either way, but it makes a huge difference. Unless he still has wrist/shooting issues for the rest of the tourney, I have a hard time seeing him back.

I have never seen seth curry play, but I imagine that Dawkins (dont underestimate what a summer at Duke will do) Curry and Irving will all see significant floor time, with Curry getting the lions share. You have Scheyers 35 minutes to divvy up.

If this team wants to play to its strengths, and Singler returns, I cant see how Coach K avoids playing Singler at the 4. We lost two senior big men. The Plumlees will have to back each other up at the C, so they cant be on the court at the same time very much. Thornton is the odd man out at this point.

The alternative is that Duke plays two rotations, one big, one small throughout the game. I have a hard time seeing that tho. With the amount of guards that become available next year, you almost have to play a guard dominated team.

Irving, Curry, Smith, Dawkins, and Singler will all get time at 1-3, additionally, SIngler will see time at the 4, in not-insignificant minutes, I would think.

But enough about next year. GOOOOOO DUKE!!!!

[Welcome2DaSlopes]

It's Tyler Thorton's birthday today. I think he turned 18

[airowe]

Tyler's last game:

http://www.dcsportsfan.com/article.aspx?aid=3482


"Tyler made my life easy," Turner added. "He is such a good leader and an extension of me on the court. Tyler does a great job of getting guys the ball and making plays when he needs to. Playing in the Capital Classic is a nice way to finish his high school career."

[COYS]

Tyler's last game:

http://www.dcsportsfan.com/article.aspx?aid=3482

While Tyler will probably need a year or two to see a lot of court time at Duke, he seems like an absolutely great player and a great kid. Lost among the big names coming to Duke next year, he will be someone we will all be very sad to see leave campus four years from now.

[flyingdutchdevil]

While Tyler will probably need a year or two to see a lot of court time at Duke, he seems like an absolutely great player and a great kid. Lost among the big names coming to Duke next year, he will be someone we will all be very sad to see leave campus four years from now.

If you sub in Tyler with Sean in that paragraph, it makes complete sense too. I view the players quite similarly (at least Sean Duke and Tyler HS and not Sean HS, a scoring machine, and Tyler HS) - great defense, needs MEGA improvement on offense, will get under the skin of any PG, similar size, etc.

I too think Tyler will slowly become a fan favorite, much like Sean.

[CDu]

If you sub in Tyler with Sean in that paragraph, it makes complete sense too. I view the players quite similarly (at least Sean Duke and Tyler HS and not Sean HS, a scoring machine, and Tyler HS) - great defense, needs MEGA improvement on offense, will get under the skin of any PG, similar size, etc.

I too think Tyler will slowly become a fan favorite, much like Sean.

Yeah, Thornton sounds to be (at least in coming into the program) somewhat similar to what Dockery became at Duke. The expectations for Dockery coming in were obviously much higher. But if Thornton could contribute in a Dockery-like defensive role, that certainly wouldn't be a bad thing at all.

[airowe]

I think Tyler's most important role next year will be making life hell for Kyrie and Seth in practice. Not saying he'll only play in practice (I think there will be quite a few blowouts next year ;)) but this will be his biggest role on the team next year.

Nolan had some impressive things to say about how much better he was playing against Seth in practice all year and I can guarantee you that a good portion of Z's and Miles' improvements this year had to do with the defense they faced during practice.

[whereinthehellami]

Here is the boxscore for the Capital Classic (http://www.thecapitalclassic.com/Assets/capital_classics/10CapUS.htm)All-Star game in DC. Hairston and Thornton were in it. Hairston was the only player with a double-double (14 pts, 10 boards). Thornton only had 4 pts. He also had 4 TOs.

[MCFinARL]

I think Tyler's most important role next year will be making life hell for Kyrie and Seth in practice. Not saying he'll only play in practice (I think there will be quite a few blowouts next year ;)) but this will be his biggest role on the team next year.

Nolan had some impressive things to say about how much better he was playing against Seth in practice all year and I can guarantee you that a good portion of Z's and Miles' improvements this year had to do with the defense they faced during practice.
Agree completely. Something that has really helped this Duke team compared to the last few years, I think, is the greater depth on the bench, leading to higher overall quality in practice.

[roywhite]

http://www.thecapitalclassic.com/Assets/capital_classics/10CapUS.htm

Josh Hairston and Tyler Thornton played in the Capital Classic last night, featuring a team from the DC area vs a national team.

Josh had a good game with 14 pts and 10 rebounds in 19 minutes, was named to the "all-tournament" team.

Edit: I have no idea what triggered the language filter in the link.

[flyingdutchdevil]

http://www.thecapitalclassic.com/Assets/capital_classics/10CapUS.htm

Josh Hairston and Tyler Thornton played in the Capital Classic last night, featuring a team from the DC area vs a national team.

Josh had a good game with 14 pts and 10 rebounds in 19 minutes, was named to the "all-tournament" team.

lol. check out the hyperlink - apparently the @ss in classic is forbidden on this forum...

[-jk]

Odd. It was the word "Assets" in the middle of the URL, which should have been fine - as it is here.

Weird. And the link still works, which is even weirder.

-jk