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View Full Version : Welcome to Duke, Rasheed Sulaimon!



_TheFakeJWill_
02-10-2011, 08:59 PM
He has gave a verbal to Duke per Twitter 7minutes ago (ny2lasports)

jimrowe0
02-10-2011, 09:05 PM
Big pick up...welcome to duke sheed

_TheFakeJWill_
02-10-2011, 09:07 PM
What a week for Duke basketball and an outstanding future ahead :)

Dukeface88
02-10-2011, 09:09 PM
Must have liked he saw yesterday :)

And welcome to Duke!

OZZIE4DUKE
02-10-2011, 09:12 PM
Welcome to Duke Rasheed! :cool:

-bdbd
02-10-2011, 09:17 PM
He has gave a verbal to Duke per Twitter 7minutes ago (ny2lasports)

Wow! That is awesome! The future really looks bight for the Duke program.... first a top-10-talent 6'8" WF/BF in Murphy, and then a top-25 caliber stud gunner SG in Rasheed Sulaimon. Add to that the 2011 incoming class of FOUR McD AA caliber studs (yes, I know MG didn't get in on a technicality - but he's clearly of the McD level players) - including a 4-year super "pied piper" PG in Cook, and the top player/2G in the class in Rivers. Only thing missing is an inside impact power guy to join the parade to Durham.... Paging Mr. Parker, Mr. Tony Parker??


:D :) :cool:

Spy
02-10-2011, 09:17 PM
Sweet, I mean really how can you not pick Duke after seeing Cameron at its best?

Bluedevil114
02-10-2011, 09:17 PM
I love this kid Sheed. His mid range jumper is sick and he is a very personable kid with character. He will fit in well with the Dukies!!

Welcome to Duke SHEED!!

In 2012 when we play UNC we can now chant our Rasheed is better!!

Lord Ash
02-10-2011, 09:18 PM
Awesome.

moonpie23
02-10-2011, 09:21 PM
awesomer...

delfrio
02-10-2011, 09:22 PM
I guess this Rasheed can read...

the writing on the wall about the state of the bball program.

Leck
02-10-2011, 09:38 PM
S s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s
h h h h h h h h h h h h h h h
e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e
e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e
e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e
e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e
e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e
e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e
e e e e e e e e e e e e e e e
d d d d d d d d d d d d d d d
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

cbnaylor
02-10-2011, 09:41 PM
Welcome to the Duke family Rasheed! Let's keep them rolling!

GODUKEGO
02-10-2011, 09:53 PM
Ranked #18 in the junior class.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/recruiting/player/_/id/67405/rasheed-sulaimon

TampaDukie
02-10-2011, 09:54 PM
So excited about this news. What a great week.

Welcome to Duke, Rasheed!

DukieinSoCal
02-10-2011, 09:55 PM
ESPN's write-up is here: http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recruiting/player?id=67405&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fncb %2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d67405


Sounds like Nolan Smith 2.0. The future looks bright!

Spam Filter
02-10-2011, 09:58 PM
He sounds like a more athletic Jon Scheyer.

BD80
02-10-2011, 10:04 PM
This news has got to move last night's game into the top 5 best Duke/unc games ever!

WELCOME!

Jderf
02-10-2011, 10:05 PM
Sounds like Nolan Smith 2.0. The future looks bright!


He sounds like a more athletic Jon Scheyer.

Sounds to me like Boozer -- only shorter, faster, and with guard skills instead of forward skills. ;)

Welcome to Duke Rasheed! Get ready for unreasonable expectations.

OldPhiKap
02-10-2011, 10:14 PM
Sounds to me like Boozer -- only shorter, faster, and with guard skills instead of forward skills. ;)

Welcome to Duke Rasheed! Get ready for unreasonable expectations.

Sounds like a shorter, faster Laettner.

Nah, sounds like the best Rasheed to play in the ACC. WELCOME!!!!!!!!!!!!

DukeBlueDevils47
02-10-2011, 10:22 PM
What a week!! welcome Rasheed!

BleedsP287
02-10-2011, 10:33 PM
Welcome to Duke Rasheed. Very glad to have you here with us!

mr. synellinden
02-10-2011, 10:49 PM
ESPN's write-up is here: http://insider.espn.go.com/ncb/recru...r%3fid%3d67405

Sounds like Nolan Smith 2.0. The future looks bright!

I'm getting an Elliot Williams vibe. Or Daniel Ewing.

Greg_Newton
02-10-2011, 10:51 PM
I posted this in the 2012 thread before, but he really reminds me of Randolph Childress. A couple inches taller and not quite as blazing quick, but really similar game and style:

Rasheed: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOdHWRZn8rY

Childress: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i3YT21obnQ0

ncexnyc
02-10-2011, 10:59 PM
I believe it was Mike who said this would be a special week for Duke fans, two prize recruits and a win over the heels, that fits the bill to a T.

FireOgilvie
02-11-2011, 12:02 AM
Here is a Sulaimon quote from November:

What do you look for in a coach/team?
"In a coach I look for a great man, and a person who looks out for my best interest both on and off the court. Someone who can develop me both in life and on the basketball court and someone who loves winning as much as I do lol. My perfect team would be a team that runs and gets up and down the floor. They play pressure defense and spreads the court out offensively."

It looks like he made the right choice!

http://boxofmess.com/2010/11/03/rasheed-sulaimon-everything-is-big-in-texas/

SmartDevil
02-11-2011, 12:41 AM
Another wonderful addition.

Things are pretty much on a roll all around for K and our Devils.

I hope that also proves to be true regarding the health prognosis of a certain someone's toe!!

Mike Corey
02-11-2011, 12:44 AM
What a wonderful way to end a wonderful week.

Two 5* talents, great progress on Kyrie's toe, and outdoing our archrivals in a classic performance? Holy moly.

ChicagoCrazy84
02-11-2011, 01:31 AM
Another Daniel Ewing...or Nolan Smith. Either way, I like it!!

Welcome to Duke Rasheeeeeeeeed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On fire!!!!!!!!

ChicagoCrazy84
02-11-2011, 01:37 AM
It had to've helped that Nolan Smith went off for 34 :D

Dev11
02-11-2011, 02:31 AM
Another Daniel Ewing...or Nolan Smith. Either way, I like it!!

Welcome to Duke Rasheeeeeeeeed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

On fire!!!!!!!!

One of my friends commented to me earlier, "We are replacing Kyle Singler and Nolan Smith in 2012 with Kyle Singler and Nolan Smith."

Let the unreasonable comparisons begin.

wsb3
02-11-2011, 04:42 AM
Great week for the Devils. It is possible to wake early and be excited at 4:30 a.m.;)

wilko
02-11-2011, 05:12 AM
Welcome to the party RS...
Glad to have you.

Hey dude, since you and AM are already grooving on the Duke vibe .... ring up Bazz and TP. Give them some encouragement and an invite to the party.

Smitty1911
02-11-2011, 06:46 AM
What a way to start the day on what has turned out to be a perfect week! Welcome to Duke, Rasheed! Thrilled to have you as part of the Duke family. And to keep the positive momentum going, I'm headed off to a nice Caribbean vacation tomorrow. Life is good... :cool:

flyingdutchdevil
02-11-2011, 06:59 AM
So, according to this thread, Sheed is the following:

46% Nolan Smith
34% Daniel Ewing
23% Jon Scheyer
15% Christian Laettner
14% Carlos Boozer
0.5% Rasheed Wallace

That's a hell of a player! Looking forward to watching him play (and yes, I know the math doesn't add up :D)

But, in all seriousness, I have a feeling that I'm going to love his energy and defense more than anything. Sounds like a shorter Lance Thomas with more advanced offensive skills ;)

Turtleboy
02-11-2011, 07:16 AM
Wow! That is awesome! The future really looks bight for the Duke program.... first a top-10-talent 6'8" WF/BF in Murphy, and then a top-25 caliber stud gunner SG in Rasheed Sulaimon. Add to that the 2011 incoming class of FOUR McD AA caliber studs (yes, I know MG didn't get in on a technicality - but he's clearly of the McD level players) - including a 4-year super "pied piper" PG in Cook, and the top player/2G in the class in Rivers. Only thing missing is an inside impact power guy to join the parade to Durham.... Paging Mr. Parker, Mr. Tony Parker??


:D :) :cool:Who is MG? What was the technicality?

CLW
02-11-2011, 07:19 AM
and the good news keeps coming in on a daily basis. I look for a Parker commitment by Saturday and a Shabazz commitment on Sunday.

devildeac
02-11-2011, 08:02 AM
So, according to this thread, Sheed is the following:

46% Nolan Smith
34% Daniel Ewing
23% Jon Scheyer
15% Christian Laettner
14% Carlos Boozer
0.5% Rasheed Wallace

That's a hell of a player! Looking forward to watching him play (and yes, I know the math doesn't add up :D)

But, in all seriousness, I have a feeling that I'm going to love his energy and defense more than anything. Sounds like a shorter Lance Thomas with more advanced offensive skills ;)

You left out 5% Elliott Williams:rolleyes:.

moonpie23
02-11-2011, 08:03 AM
and the good news keeps coming in on a daily basis. I look for a Parker commitment by Saturday and a Shabazz commitment on Sunday.

"Ooooooooo.....That's a Bingo!!!!!!"

devildeac
02-11-2011, 08:04 AM
Who is MG? What was the technicality?

Michael Gbinije, a 6'6" wing guard/forward, who sounds like he is a 5th year HS senior and those players are not eligible for McD AA teams. Hope I got that right.

Reilly
02-11-2011, 08:17 AM
I'm getting an Elliot Williams vibe. Or Daniel Ewing.

Some consider him a very rich man's Joe Cook, as well.

flyingdutchdevil
02-11-2011, 08:17 AM
You left out 5% Elliott Williams:rolleyes:.

I'd say more 7.3% Elliott Williams. He's definitely long!

BD80
02-11-2011, 08:20 AM
... Sheed is the following:

46% Nolan Smith
34% Daniel Ewing
23% Jon Scheyer
15% Christian Laettner
14% Carlos Boozer
0.5% Rasheed Wallace

... (and yes, I know the math doesn't add up :D) ...

The math skills were the 0.5% contribution of Rasheed Wallace

Reddevil
02-11-2011, 10:09 AM
He sounds like a more athletic Jon Scheyer.

Thank you for that! Seriously, this is fantastic news. I have looked around, but have not found the pronunciation for Sulaimon. Which syllable is stressed? Thanks in advance.

Troublemaker
02-11-2011, 11:17 AM
The following link and the photo inside are awesome. I promise.

Click on me: http://www.westburychristian.org/topstories0607/duke-tip.html

Dreams do come true, match made in heaven, yada yada

Bluedog
02-11-2011, 11:24 AM
The following link and the photo inside are awesome. I promise.

Click on me: http://www.westburychristian.org/topstories0607/duke-tip.html

Dreams do come true, match made in heaven, yada yada

Wow, that is awesome! haha, funny stuff. I knew Rasheed was a smart kid. Clearly, Duke academics didn't hurt in his decision. Glad to have him on board!

flyingdutchdevil
02-11-2011, 11:25 AM
The following link and the photo inside are awesome. I promise.

Click on me: http://www.westburychristian.org/topstories0607/duke-tip.html

Dreams do come true, match made in heaven, yada yada

That is awesome! Great find

gam7
02-11-2011, 11:29 AM
The following link and the photo inside are awesome. I promise.

Click on me: http://www.westburychristian.org/topstories0607/duke-tip.html

Dreams do come true, match made in heaven, yada yada

Is that John Henson on the far right?

Devil07
02-11-2011, 11:31 AM
The following link and the photo inside are awesome. I promise.

Click on me: http://www.westburychristian.org/topstories0607/duke-tip.html

Dreams do come true, match made in heaven, yada yada

Wow that's awesome! It got me wondering, is Rasheed the first former TIP participant to play for Duke? I can't think of any off the top of my head, but it's an interesting question. Also, I'm just glad that spending part of the summer in non air-conditioned dorms didn't scare him away!

Troublemaker
02-11-2011, 12:27 PM
It's always nice to see lifelong Duke fans like Rasheed and Andre make it to Durham. I root just a little extra hard for them to succeed, which I'm sure they will.

moonpie23
02-11-2011, 12:28 PM
i believe that it is " soo-li-mon"

Lord Ash
02-11-2011, 12:30 PM
The following link and the photo inside are awesome. I promise.

Click on me: http://www.westburychristian.org/topstories0607/duke-tip.html

Dreams do come true, match made in heaven, yada yada

Great stuff. Can't help but wonder if the super tall kid in glasses all the way on the right happens to play the post...?

flyingdutchdevil
02-11-2011, 12:41 PM
Is that John Henson on the far right?

Can't be. Kid in the picture has too much muscle

Troublemaker
02-11-2011, 12:44 PM
Great stuff. Can't help but wonder if the super tall kid in glasses all the way on the right happens to play the post...?

I thought the same thing when I saw the pic. Relative to Rasheed, that kid must be 6'8" by now. I have a feeling he has Casey Sanders like hands, though.

ETA: Maybe not. This could be him and he's 5'9" and pre-med: http://profiles.berecruited.com/athletes/738174 . Okay I can't believe I even spent a minute searching for that. That picture with Rasheed just makes me giddy.

DukeUsul
02-11-2011, 01:10 PM
Am I the only one who can't get this song out of my head now?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJ73Dc0pC8M

CameronBlue
02-11-2011, 01:48 PM
Great to hear that Rasheed has verbaled to Duke. Great news to cap off a great week for Duke Basketball, the greatness index is dog nuts off the charts!

(And let's all agree that the non-verbal recruits may be better off attending other schools, one in particular whose student-athletes are less likely to be camping out for sporting events and more likely to be camping out in front of the honor court. You're quite correct Doc Thorp academiks iz serius bidness).

thenameisbond
02-11-2011, 02:00 PM
This week just keeps getting better for Duke fans.:cool:

NSDukeFan
02-11-2011, 02:05 PM
Fabulous news and a great end to a great week!! I'm excited to see you at Duke Rasheed.

gam7
02-11-2011, 02:30 PM
Fabulous news and a great end to a great week!! I'm excited to see you at Duke Rasheed.

This was a great week for Sulaimon too. First, he commits to Duke. Then, Mubarak relinquishes control of Egypt to him.

DUKIE V(A)
02-11-2011, 05:55 PM
Outstanding news. Seems like a very well-rounded person and a terrific, versatile player. Huge get!

Mike Corey
02-11-2011, 06:03 PM
The Chronicle reported earlier that as a 7th grader, Sulaimon participated in Duke's prestigious TIP.

SuperTurkey
02-11-2011, 06:05 PM
The Chronicle reported earlier that as a 7th grader, Sulaimon participated in Duke's prestigious TIP.

So did this thread (http://www.dukebasketballreport.com/forums/showthread.php?24289-Welcome-to-Duke-Rasheed-Sulaimon!&p=474251#post474251). :)

hq2
02-11-2011, 07:04 PM
"Sul, Sulaimon, Sulay, Sulay, Sulaimon...." - Neil Diamond.

Maybe we'll like this Rasheed more than one we remember in the mid 90s!

Mike Corey
02-11-2011, 07:24 PM
So did this thread (http://www.dukebasketballreport.com/forums/showthread.php?24289-Welcome-to-Duke-Rasheed-Sulaimon!&p=474251#post474251). :)

Mea culpa, SuperTurkey, mea culpa.

GODUKEGO
02-11-2011, 09:42 PM
This appeared in the Raleigh News & Observer:

http://blogs.newsobserver.com/accnow/duke-reels-in-another-big-2012-commitment

GODUKEGO
02-12-2011, 07:26 AM
Another article in the Raleigh News & Observer. Duke invited just one recruit – Sulaimon – to the game against North Carolina on Wednesday at Cameron Indoor Stadium.


http://www.newsobserver.com/2011/02/12/984629/recruit-got-dukes-best.html

gumbomoop
04-03-2011, 08:42 PM
Telep seems impressed:

http://twitter.com/DaveTelep/status/54672164351250432

bdevil4life
04-03-2011, 11:51 PM
I think what impressed me the most about him in that game was how comfortable he looked pushing the ball up the court. Everyone has talked about his range, but his handle looks pretty good too for someone that is slated to play the two.

Bluedevil114
04-26-2011, 11:19 AM
I know we still have the 2011-12 season and I am counting the days until then. I am so excited to see Rasheed Sulaimon in a Duke uniform. This guy is so smooth and very quick. His range is ridiculous and he does not miss many inside the arch. Rasheed has an incredible attitude and he is infectious. He will be the next Nolan Smith not only on the court but off of it. He is the one that will be after practices and games signing autographs and staying the latest in the gym to get better. Everything I have seen or read on this kid is exciting.

I watched him play live once in Washington D.C. but have also seen him play in other events on T.V. This kid is truly going to be one of the more beloved players at Duke. He also is out recruiting hard for us with Shabazz and Parker.

gwlaw99
04-26-2011, 03:11 PM
All we need is a nickname other than 'Sheed.

BD80
04-26-2011, 04:20 PM
All we need is a nickname other than 'Sheed.

Could he be "Good 'Sheed?"


Of course the double entendre would only refer to medicinal substances properly obtained with a valid prescription.

Devilsfan
04-26-2011, 04:58 PM
If I remember correctly the "sheed" NEVER committed a foul. I know because I believe he said so.

theAlaskanBear
04-26-2011, 07:45 PM
All we need is a nickname other than 'Sheed.

I like the earlier post: Suleiman the Magnificent. We could call him Sultan or Pasha, sor simply "Rash" (pronounced Rosh) or "Sully".

Bluedevil114
04-26-2011, 08:21 PM
All we need is a nickname other than 'Sheed.

RAS-TA-MON
SUSHI (Susheed)
Chop Sushi

Who Sheed (song by Baby Boy da Prince)

Remember "To the windows to Loul (Lu-Wall)"

darjum
04-27-2011, 01:18 AM
All we need is a nickname other than 'Sheed.

Scholastic Sheed (Duke) vs Slapdash Sheed (Heels)

watzone
04-27-2011, 12:09 PM
5 questions for Rasheed Sulaimon - http://bluedevilnation.net/2011/04/5-questions-for-future-dukie-rasheed-sulaimon/

lotusland
04-27-2011, 03:43 PM
I like the earlier post: Suleiman the Magnificent. We could call him Sultan or Pasha, sor simply "Rash" (pronounced Rosh) or "Sully".

Look - in the sky! It's a bird. It's a plane. No it's Sulaimon!

wilko
04-28-2011, 07:33 AM
All we need is a nickname other than 'Sheed.

So after a fab play could we (or maybe just me) go with "Holy Sheed!" as in the expletive use.

Its not like I'm not gonna say something similar anyway... however, I don't want to blatantly disrespect the young man.

rotogod00
05-01-2011, 08:09 AM
Dave Telep's comparison of Sulaimon to Nolan Smith:

"Rasheed Sulaimon (Houston, Texas/Strake Jesuit) is the highest-rated and only committed guard of the trio. He's going to Duke where he'll undoubtedly draw comparisons with Nolan Smith. A much better shooter than Smith at the same stage, Sulaimon isn't as accomplished a driver as Smith but both are good passers. Sulaimon is more naturally wired to score than his predecessor."

Faison1
05-01-2011, 08:17 AM
That kid has success written all over him.....

NSDukeFan
05-01-2011, 12:06 PM
That kid has success written all over him.....

That doesn't Impress me. I'm not a fan of tattoos.(;

COYS
05-03-2011, 10:07 AM
Dave Telep's comparison of Sulaimon to Nolan Smith:

"Rasheed Sulaimon (Houston, Texas/Strake Jesuit) is the highest-rated and only committed guard of the trio. He's going to Duke where he'll undoubtedly draw comparisons with Nolan Smith. A much better shooter than Smith at the same stage, Sulaimon isn't as accomplished a driver as Smith but both are good passers. Sulaimon is more naturally wired to score than his predecessor."

I wonder how his on-ball defense will stack up with Nolan. As impressive as Nolan's scoring exploits were his final two seasons at Duke, his apply constant pressure to the ball for close to 40 minutes a night while staying out of foul trouble was equally impressive and instrumental to the success of the 2009-2011 Duke teams. It was literally Nolan or no one guarding the ball in 2009-2010. At any rate, if Sulaimon has as successful a Duke career as Nolan Smith, Duke fans will be very, very happy campers!

HCheek37
05-03-2011, 11:46 AM
Rasheed commented on twitter today about bringing Tony Parker and Rodney Purvis/Shabazz with him next year. Quote below:


JayJayESPNRise Jason Jordan
My man @sheed_01 tells me that: "Next summer @tonyparker32 & either @rpurvis_44 or @phenom15balla will be w/ me @ Duke." #toprecruiter

watzone
06-23-2011, 09:40 AM
http://bluedevilnation.net/2011/06/rasheed-sulaimon-diary-entry-one/ First entry of Rasheed Sulaimon diary here. It'll get better as he goes along.

MCFinARL
06-23-2011, 01:12 PM
http://bluedevilnation.net/2011/06/rasheed-sulaimon-diary-entry-one/ First entry of Rasheed Sulaimon diary here. It'll get better as he goes along.

Thanks, Watzone. If it's going to get better, I'm excited. This first entry is short, but it's clear and fairly interesting--especially given it was written by a teenage boy.

devildeac
06-26-2011, 10:11 AM
All we need is a nickname other than 'Sheed.


Could he be "Good 'Sheed?"


Of course the double entendre would only refer to medicinal substances properly obtained with a valid prescription.


I like the earlier post: Suleiman the Magnificent. We could call him Sultan or Pasha, sor simply "Rash" (pronounced Rosh) or "Sully".


RAS-TA-MON
SUSHI (Susheed)
Chop Sushi

Who Sheed (song by Baby Boy da Prince)

Remember "To the windows to Loul (Lu-Wall)"


Scholastic Sheed (Duke) vs Slapdash Sheed (Heels)


Look - in the sky! It's a bird. It's a plane. No it's Sulaimon!


So after a fab play could we (or maybe just me) go with "Holy Sheed!" as in the expletive use.

Its not like I'm not gonna say something similar anyway... however, I don't want to blatantly disrespect the young man.

I realize this is a fan forum/discussion board and we are in the "off season" but as much as we complain about "the black falcon" down the road, perhaps we should temper or cease our desires/discussions for nicknames for our recruits...

devildeac
06-26-2011, 10:15 AM
Thanks, Watzone. If it's going to get better, I'm excited. This first entry is short, but it's clear and fairly interesting--especially given it was written by a teenage boy.

Just remember, that teenage boy was an attendee of the Duke TIP program several years ago;).

magjayran
06-26-2011, 12:12 PM
I realize this is a fan forum/discussion board and we are in the "off season" but as much as we complain about "the black falcon" down the road, perhaps we should temper or cease our desires/discussions for nicknames for our recruits...

No. We all agree that it's ok for us to give players nicknames. Just not ok for them to give nicknames to themselves.

BD80
06-26-2011, 01:54 PM
I realize this is a fan forum/discussion board and we are in the "off season" but as much as we complain about "the black falcon" down the road, perhaps we should temper or cease our desires/discussions for nicknames for our recruits...

Each member of this board could proffer 100 suggestions and STILL we could not come up with a proposal as lame or derivative as "The Black Falcon."

HB deserves every lick of criticism for mugging that moniker.

devildeac
06-26-2011, 02:12 PM
Each member of this board could proffer 100 suggestions and STILL we could not come up with a proposal as lame or derivative as "The Black Falcon."

HB deserves every lick of criticism for mugging that moniker.

My point was in no way meant to construe a defense of that nickname (Shoot, I actually prefer The Black Pigeon that, IIRC, was originated by moonpie:D.) that I likewise despise, along with his theatrics recounted (discounted?) in the SI/Austin thread. It was merely intended as a caution to our fanbase/readers about appearances of hypocritical behavior with this particular issue.

Duke of Nashville
06-27-2011, 02:35 PM
I wonder how his on-ball defense will stack up with Nolan. As impressive as Nolan's scoring exploits were his final two seasons at Duke, his apply constant pressure to the ball for close to 40 minutes a night while staying out of foul trouble was equally impressive and instrumental to the success of the 2009-2011 Duke teams. It was literally Nolan or no one guarding the ball in 2009-2010. At any rate, if Sulaimon has as successful a Duke career as Nolan Smith, Duke fans will be very, very happy campers!

Here is a little write up (bottom of the page) Rasheed was one of the best defenders at the Deron Williams camp.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/recruiting/basketball/mens/news/story?id=6708421

superdave
06-27-2011, 02:44 PM
Here's a possibility (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suleiman_the_Magnificent) for a nickname.

BigWil06
06-27-2011, 02:47 PM
Rasheed is on the front page of mens basketball recruiting

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/recruiting/

Same story as above but it's nice to get front page billing

juise
06-27-2011, 08:01 PM
Rasheed is on the front page of mens basketball recruiting

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/recruiting/

Same story as above but it's nice to get front page billing

Right now that link leads to a front page with Julius Randle. I'd take him too. ;)

Dukeface88
06-27-2011, 10:29 PM
I like "Sultan of sWing", but only if we're in dire straits.

mph
06-27-2011, 10:48 PM
I like "Sultan of sWing", but only if we're in dire straits.

It's a good thing he's not interested in money for nothing. He would have ended up at Kentucky.

Dukeface88
06-27-2011, 11:10 PM
It's a good thing he's not interested in money for nothing. He would have ended up at Kentucky.

But now he can have K teach him tricks for free.

devildeac
06-27-2011, 11:11 PM
I like "Sultan of sWing", but only if we're in dire straits.


It's a good thing he's not interested in money for nothing. He would have ended up at Kentucky.

And if this leads to the anticipated pun-fest, I might get a blister on my little finger, maybe get a blister on my thumb.

lotusland
06-28-2011, 12:34 PM
And if this leads to the anticipated pun-fest, I might get a blister on my little finger, maybe get a blister on my thumb.

I'll beed 6 hamburgers, scotch all night and nicotine for breakfast just to put me right.

CameronBornAndBred
11-09-2011, 05:46 PM
He signed his LOI today :)

http://www.goduke.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_LANG=C&ATCLID=205330555&DB_OEM_ID=4200

dukedoc
11-09-2011, 05:49 PM
Man, I already love this guy. He looks like a young Nolan on the court and seems to have a Nolan-esque personality to match it. I don't want to set too high a bar, but this kid will be pretty darn special. I hope he stays 4 years.

passportplayas
12-06-2011, 06:51 PM
Here is a clip from a game at the 35th Father Berry Christmas Classic.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJ1LMfgF01c

Indoor66
12-06-2011, 08:15 PM
Here is a clip from a game at the 35th Father Berry Christmas Classic.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJ1LMfgF01c (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJ1LMfgF01c)

Looked like a charge to me.

duke09hms
12-06-2011, 09:26 PM
Looked like a charge to me.

That was a charge just like this was a charge. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0upQDkY-pg
Sorry Greg.

Defender started falling before any contact was made.

A sweet shooter with a good handle and ups, lovin this guy already! He gets up as high as his SAT scores, NICE!

Bob Green
12-06-2011, 09:26 PM
Looked like a charge to me.

Sulaimon would've been whistled for a charge, except the play took place after he committed to Duke. :cool:

Greg_Newton
12-07-2011, 01:36 AM
Here is a clip from a game at the 35th Father Berry Christmas Classic.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJ1LMfgF01c

WOW. That's already three big dunks that have surfaced from his senior season. He looks so much more explosive and confident in the air to me.

BTW, no way that's a charge. Pause it when he took off, dude was sliding sideways and leaning all over the place. Not to mention in the restricted area. :p

COYS
12-07-2011, 10:22 AM
WOW. That's already three big dunks that have surfaced from his senior season. He looks so much more explosive and confident in the air to me.

BTW, no way that's a charge. Pause it when he took off, dude was sliding sideways and leaning all over the place. Not to mention in the restricted area. :p

If I'm not mistaken, Airowe mentioned that Duke backed off Purvis (who was originally one of the top guards in the class of 2012) in large part because Rasheed has really taken off from both a skills and physical standpoint. Given the physical specimen that Purvis is, this is really high praise for Rasheed.

passportplayas
12-13-2011, 09:56 PM
He played extremely hard all tournament earning him on All Tourney team. He can get up and down the court with ease. I look forward in seeing him battle next season!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c7pUOEagwL0

ScreechTDX1847
12-14-2011, 12:59 PM
Not that it is very uncommon but he is MUCH stronger driving to the right and needs to work on finishing with his left hand.

Devilsfan
12-14-2011, 01:12 PM
Hope he's not a one man class and he will be complimented by other talented Freshmen.

1 24 90
02-09-2012, 05:19 PM
Saw on ESPNU that Sulaimon was just named to the Mcdonald's All American team. Congrats.

roywhite
03-06-2012, 10:26 PM
From goduke.com (http://www.goduke.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_LANG=C&ATCLID=205392819&DB_OEM_ID=4200)


DURHAM, N.C. – Rasheed Sulaimon, a 2012 Duke signee, is among the 10 elite high school seniors named by USA Basketball today to the roster for the 2012 USA Junior National Select Team, which will take on the World Select Team in the 2012 Nike Hoop Summit on Saturday, April 7 at the Rose Garden in Portland, Ore. The 15th annual Nike Hoop Summit will be broadcast nationally by Fox Sports Net and its regional affiliates with the game tipping off at 10pm (EST).



This is the best of the high school all-star games IMO, since there is more team basketball played in an effort to win.

Shabazz Muhammad is also on the team.

dukedoc
04-13-2012, 11:56 AM
A nice article about Rasheed LINK (http://www.heraldsun.com/view/full_story/18226000/article-Sulaimon-realizes-the-challenges-ahead-at-Duke)


“In Sulaimon, you are talking about one of the top students at one of the best schools in Texas,” Telep said. “I’ve always found him to be very inquisitive. I’ve always found him to be a fast learner.”

roywhite
04-13-2012, 12:11 PM
A nice article about Rasheed LINK (http://www.heraldsun.com/view/full_story/18226000/article-Sulaimon-realizes-the-challenges-ahead-at-Duke)


“In Sulaimon, you are talking about one of the top students at one of the best schools in Texas,” Telep said. “I’ve always found him to be very inquisitive. I’ve always found him to be a fast learner.”

Thanks for the link.

For those with a strong stomach that can withstand the sloppy nature of all-star games, you can catch Rasheed play again in the Jordan Brand Classic, broadcast from Charlotte Saturday 4/14 at 7:00 PM on ESPN.

2012 Jordan Brand rosters (http://www.jordanbrandclassic.com/featured-news/2012-jordan-brand-classic-team-announced.html)

Son of Jarhead
04-13-2012, 02:05 PM
Thanks for the link.

For those with a strong stomach that can withstand the sloppy nature of all-star games, you can catch Rasheed play again in the Jordan Brand Classic, broadcast from Charlotte Saturday 4/14 at 7:00 PM on ESPN.

2012 Jordan Brand rosters (http://www.jordanbrandclassic.com/featured-news/2012-jordan-brand-classic-team-announced.html)

That falls during the basketball banquet. I gotto go catch Miles' senior video, so I'll have to set my DVR.... "Throw it down, big fella!"

tbyers11
04-13-2012, 08:35 PM
Rasheed hasn't played a game for Duke yet, but this video (http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/57932/video-jordan-brand-stars-sing-like-mike) from the Jordan Brand all-star game (watch til the end) is a good start at putting him on my favorite Dukies list. :D

roywhite
04-13-2012, 08:40 PM
Rasheed hasn't played a game for Duke yet, but this video (http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/57932/video-jordan-brand-stars-sing-like-mike) from the Jordan Brand all-star game (watch til the end) is a good start at putting him on my favorite Dukies list. :D

Thanks for the link, and gotta agree with you!

DukeFanSince1990
04-13-2012, 09:09 PM
Thanks for the link, and gotta agree with you!

I guess this means Parker is tainted now......

MCFinARL
04-15-2012, 03:03 PM
An interesting note from the Sulaimon article linked on the front page today--he says that the Duke coaches have talked to him about playing some at the point at Duke, so he is working on his point guard skills. Obviously, it can't be a bad thing for a guard to be able to play a bit at the point if need be, but I was a bit surprised to hear the coaches project this for Sulaimon given Duke has, presumably, 2 more years of Thornton and 3 years of Cook in that position.

Anybody have insight into this?

Kedsy
04-15-2012, 03:14 PM
An interesting note from the Sulaimon article linked on the front page today--he says that the Duke coaches have talked to him about playing some at the point at Duke, so he is working on his point guard skills. Obviously, it can't be a bad thing for a guard to be able to play a bit at the point if need be, but I was a bit surprised to hear the coaches project this for Sulaimon given Duke has, presumably, 2 more years of Thornton and 3 years of Cook in that position.

Anybody have insight into this?

I'm guessing, but if Rasheed is really the defensive dynamo people say he is and can lock down the opposing PG, then he needs minutes, and a lineup with him and Seth together in the backcourt might be worth trying every now and again. Also, with 7 guys competing for minutes at the three perimeter positions, having the flexibility of either Seth or Rasheed at the point gives Coach K more options.

Put another way, if Quinn and Tyler combine for 40 or more minutes (and assuming Seth is locked in for 30+ minutes at SG), that means two of Rasheed, Andre, Michael, or Alex won't play very much at all. If Rasheed can get some minutes at PG (and Alex can get some minutes at PF) then Coach K has options to play everybody, depending on who is hot and/or who practiced well that week.

JNort
04-15-2012, 03:20 PM
I'm guessing, but if Rasheed is really the defensive dynamo people say he is and can lock down the opposing PG, then he needs minutes, and a lineup with him and Seth together in the backcourt might be worth trying every now and again. Also, with 7 guys competing for minutes at the three perimeter positions, having the flexibility of either Seth or Rasheed at the point gives Coach K more options.

Put another way, if Quinn and Tyler combine for 40 or more minutes (and assuming Seth is locked in for 30+ minutes at SG), that means two of Rasheed, Andre, Michael, or Alex won't play very much at all. If Rasheed can get some minutes at PG (and Alex can get some minutes at PF) then Coach K has options to play everybody, depending on who is hot and/or who practiced well that week.

Exactly! K loves the versatile guys who can play more than one position. It gives flexibility on offense and in turn makes it harder to play us. Also it does not hurt to have your sg handle the ball if he needs to. Just think how beneficial it is to have a PG on the floor as well as a SG who can help him out if he needs it.

MCFinARL
04-15-2012, 04:22 PM
I'm guessing, but if Rasheed is really the defensive dynamo people say he is and can lock down the opposing PG, then he needs minutes, and a lineup with him and Seth together in the backcourt might be worth trying every now and again. Also, with 7 guys competing for minutes at the three perimeter positions, having the flexibility of either Seth or Rasheed at the point gives Coach K more options.

Put another way, if Quinn and Tyler combine for 40 or more minutes (and assuming Seth is locked in for 30+ minutes at SG), that means two of Rasheed, Andre, Michael, or Alex won't play very much at all. If Rasheed can get some minutes at PG (and Alex can get some minutes at PF) then Coach K has options to play everybody, depending on who is hot and/or who practiced well that week.

Thanks--that is a logical answer. Hopefully the players will be adaptable enough to work well together in a variety of configurations.

CameronCrazy06
04-16-2012, 10:49 AM
Rasheed Sulaimon is expected to contribute at both guard positions for the Blue Devils.

“They told me I’m going to be playing a lot of both (guard) positions next year,” said Sulaimon, a 6-foot-3 guard out of Houston’s Strake Jesuit College Prep School. “I’ve been working on my point guard skills. Coming here, it kind of helped me get a chance to play the point against great competition.”

Wayne Jones, Sulaimon’s head coach at Strake Jesuit, said Sulaimon had a 5-to-1 assist to turnover ratio.

“I think that’s something he’s really comfortable doing,” Jones said. “It wears him out a little bit and I think, because of his legs, he didn’t get a lot of his shots early. But when we needed him, he was able to knock the shots down. I don’t think he’ll have any trouble transitioning over to full-time point guard.”
Via Durham Herald-Sun

Read more: http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/220514/Duke_Signee_Rasheed_Sulaimon_Will_See_Time_At_Both _Guard_Spots#ixzz1sDO81KD6

Saw this on RealGM and thought I'd share it with y'all. I really like everything I've seen/heard of this kid so far, and if he also has the ability to play PG he gives us a lot of flexibility next year.

CDu
04-16-2012, 10:53 AM
I think the best-case scenario next year is that Cook improves his defense and quickness (hopefully a natural result of being healthy) and Sulaimon shows enough skill to play backup PG and SG to allow us to go with a 3-man rotation of Cook, Curry, and Sulaimon at the PG and SG spots, with Thornton providing fill-in minutes for defensive energy. I think that rotation provides our most dynamic combination offensively - the main question will be Cook's defense. But If Cook can go 20-25 mpg and play solid defense, Curry 30 mpg, Sulaimon 15-20 mpg, and Thornton 5-10 mpg, I think that's a good situation.

roywhite
04-16-2012, 11:04 AM
Saw this on RealGM and thought I'd share it with y'all. I really like everything I've seen/heard of this kid so far, and if he also has the ability to play PG he gives us a lot of flexibility next year.

Just my opinion from watching Rasheed in all-star games, and reading about him....I don't think he's a Point Guard, or at least not at this time.

He's a combination guard who can handle and pass reasonably well, but is not likely ready to be a primary Point Guard. There are players like Jon Scheyer, who might have been described similarly, but turned out to be effective at the Point Guard position. However, that usually takes plenty of work and development within the Duke program.

As Coach K might say, Rasheed is a basketball player. He's a versatile guy who can add to both our offense and defense.

flyingdutchdevil
04-16-2012, 11:20 AM
As Coach K might say, Rasheed is a basketball player. He's a versatile guy who can add to both our offense and defense.

Massive emphasis on this. There is a strong possibility that Rasheed could be our best on-the-ball defender from Day 1. That is how he'll see floor time this year.

CDu
04-16-2012, 11:22 AM
Just my opinion from watching Rasheed in all-star games, and reading about him....I don't think he's a Point Guard, or at least not at this time.

He's a combination guard who can handle and pass reasonably well, but is not likely ready to be a primary Point Guard. There are players like Jon Scheyer, who might have been described similarly, but turned out to be effective at the Point Guard position. However, that usually takes plenty of work and development within the Duke program.

As Coach K might say, Rasheed is a basketball player. He's a versatile guy who can add to both our offense and defense.

Yes, I'd agree with this. Sulaimon is most definitely a SG first and foremost. He is an okay ballhandler but not a pure PG and not a true distributor. I'd see him more as a capable ballhandler when sharing the court with Curry, but I'd say he's not in Cook's playmaking category by any means.

I really hope that Cook improves his defense and Curry improves his ballhandling and playmaking skills. It would be great if he and Sulaimon could share the playmaking responsibilities for most of the time when Cook is out then we have a dynamic offensive pairing with still solid defense (because Sulaimon will likely be our best on-ball defender).

UrinalCake
04-16-2012, 02:31 PM
If Cook can go 20-25 mpg and play solid defense, Curry 30 mpg, Sulaimon 15-20 mpg, and Thornton 5-10 mpg, I think that's a good situation.

That sounds about right to me. Thornton can go back to being our "energy" guy off the bench who we bring in to change things up. Cook would be our primary point but his minutes would be kept low enough that we don't have to worry about fatigue. Curry is going to play big minutes at either guard spot, and hopefully he can maintain some consistency on his shooting and also attack the lane as we saw him do in spots.

bounce840
04-16-2012, 02:33 PM
Did Sulaimon grow an inch or two?? It says on different sites that he is six four now. Could he play point or is he just a two guard?? Any info on him?? Thanks.

bounce840
04-16-2012, 02:34 PM
They talked about it during the McDonald's game. Talking about him possibly creating shots for others and being more of a playmaker. So, how good is he and how is he different from Rivers.

CDu
04-16-2012, 03:54 PM
They talked about it during the McDonald's game. Talking about him possibly creating shots for others and being more of a playmaker. So, how good is he and how is he different from Rivers.

He is pretty good. Sort of like a sophomore version of Nolan Smith, in my opinion. But he's taller than Smith. He's not nearly as good a ballhandler as Rivers is and thus not as good as Rivers going to the basket, but he's better in many other facets of the game (quickness, shooting, defense, playing without the ball, passing). He won't dominate the ball like Rivers did (for good and for bad). His game is quite different, more similar to Smith and Ewing.

CameronCrazy06
04-16-2012, 06:01 PM
Did Sulaimon grow an inch or two?? It says on different sites that he is six four now. Could he play point or is he just a two guard?? Any info on him?? Thanks.

He was measured at 6'4.5" in shoes at the Nike Hoop Summit last week. As the article from Real GM says, we could potentially see him at PG, but SG is his natural position.

Greg_Newton
04-16-2012, 07:41 PM
He was measured at 6'4.5" in shoes at the Nike Hoop Summit last week. As the article from Real GM says, we could potentially see him at PG, but SG is his natural position.

He's actually pretty much the exact same size as Rivers; he's 1/2" shorter, but has 1" longer arms, which means they probably have very similar reaches. He's several inches longer than Nolan in all of his measurables, despite their similar style of play.

jv001
04-16-2012, 07:54 PM
I think the best-case scenario next year is that Cook improves his defense and(hopefully a natural result of being healthy) and Sulaimon shows enough skill to play backup PG and SG to allow us to go with a 3-man rotation of Cook, Curry, and Sulaimon at the PG and SG spots, with Thornton providing fill-in minutes for defensive energy. I think that rotation provides our most dynamic combination offensively - the main question will be Cook's defense. But If Cook can go 20-25 mpg and play solid defense, Curry 30 mpg, Sulaimon 15-20 mpg, and Thornton 5-10 mpg, I think that's a good situation.

I agree with this^ and it begins with a healthy Quinn Cook. It looked like he played injured for the better part of the season and therefore did not play good on the ball defense. Plus it took away from his ability to drive the ball to the basket. Quinn must improve his defense and improve his outside shot to play many minutes. To me he is the key or X-Factor for 2013. GoDuke!

bounce840
04-17-2012, 01:24 AM
Think he will be a good one. Though he is so smooth and graceful. Also he is pretty bright and seems to me a winner just like Nolan. Hey if we got ten points a game out of him we should jump for joy.

Big Pappa
04-18-2012, 11:14 AM
After great outings at the McDonald's All-American game and the Jordan Brand All-American game, Sheed has moved up again in the final 2012 recruit rankings on three major recruiting websites:

#12 on Scout http://scouthoops.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=9&c=4&cfg=bb&pid=88&yr=2012
#12 on ESPN http://espn.go.com/college-sports//basketball/recruiting/playerrankings/_/view/espnu100/sort/rank/class/2012
#13 on CBS http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/recruiting/player-rankings/2012

I continue to think that many posters on this board are underrating and under-appreciating this stud recruit we landed for the 2012 class. Jon Pence of SCACCHOOPS.com wrote a great article (http://www.scacchoops.com/tt_NewsBreaker_External.asp?NB=7167&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter) this morning on that very thing. He says, "Admittedly lost in all the hoopla over transfers (coming and going), as of yet unsigned recruits, the Mason Plumlee decision, and the general malaise of Duke's unceremonious exit from the NCAA Tournament, is the arrival of Rasheed Sulaimon."

Be excited Duke fans. We got a stud.

mkline09
04-18-2012, 11:50 AM
After great outings at the McDonald's All-American game and the Jordan Brand All-American game, Sheed has moved up again in the final 2012 recruit rankings on three major recruiting websites:

#12 on Scout http://scouthoops.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=9&c=4&cfg=bb&pid=88&yr=2012
#12 on ESPN http://espn.go.com/college-sports//basketball/recruiting/playerrankings/_/view/espnu100/sort/rank/class/2012
#13 on CBS http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/recruiting/player-rankings/2012

I continue to think that many posters on this board are underrating and under-appreciating this stud recruit we landed for the 2012 class. Jon Pence of SCACCHOOPS.com wrote a great article (http://www.scacchoops.com/tt_NewsBreaker_External.asp?NB=7167&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter) this morning on that very thing. He says, "Admittedly lost in all the hoopla over transfers (coming and going), as of yet unsigned recruits, the Mason Plumlee decision, and the general malaise of Duke's unceremonious exit from the NCAA Tournament, is the arrival of Rasheed Sulaimon."

Be excited Duke fans. We got a stud.

I actually wrote it for my site but Jon picked it up :p

CDu
04-18-2012, 11:54 AM
I actually wrote it for my site but Jon picked it up :p

Nice article. The only thing I'd change is that I'd say he's closer to a sophomore year Nolan Smith than either a freshman year Smith than an upperclassman Smith.

mkline09
04-18-2012, 12:09 PM
Nice article. The only thing I'd change is that I'd say he's closer to a sophomore year Nolan Smith than either a freshman year Smith than an upperclassman Smith.

I'd say that is fair but I think he will likely contribute more than Nolan did his sophomore year. I think he'll have to, especially if he is as strong as I hope he is defensively.

riverside6
04-18-2012, 12:54 PM
I actually wrote it for my site but Jon picked it up :p

Yep, that was an article that DukeSportsBlog shared with my site. Credit should go there!

Bojangles4Eva
04-18-2012, 01:11 PM
Based on his defensive intensity I would say he stands a good chance to make an impact next year, regardless of how well his offensive playmaking abilities translate to the next level. Even with Austin gone, this team is pretty dangerous offensively, but is in immediate need of someone who can guard a quick 1-2. Sheed's combo of acceleration, length, and apparent desire to play D gives him an advantage over anyone in our current backcourt IMO. K has shown repeatedly in the past that as long as you can play good D (and play it within our system) that you will get minutes, in spite of your offensive deficiencies (Tyler, Lance, McClure being some of the more recent examples).

However, Sheed has way more offensive potential than a lot of our players that have historically fit that role. I think him and Alex will make significant impacts next year as new guys, with Sheeds main contribution being his defense.

mkline09
04-18-2012, 01:17 PM
Yep, that was an article that DukeSportsBlog shared with my site. Credit should go there!

But special thanks to you Jon for picking it up and disseminating it to the masses.

Big Pappa
04-18-2012, 02:31 PM
I actually wrote it for my site but Jon picked it up :p


Yep, that was an article that DukeSportsBlog shared with my site. Credit should go there!

My fault Mike. Great article and credit should go where credit is due. Great job!

sagegrouse
04-18-2012, 02:35 PM
But special thanks to you Jon for picking it up and disseminating it to the masses.


My fault Mike. Great article and credit should go where credit is due. Great job!


Yep, that was an article that DukeSportsBlog shared with my site. Credit should go there!


I actually wrote it for my site but Jon picked it up :p

Having a scorecard is not enough at DBR. You can't tell the participants with knowing the noms de plume, the noms de guerre, or the noms de troll.

sage

Big Pappa
04-18-2012, 02:42 PM
Having a scorecard is not enough at DBR. You can't tell the participants with knowing the noms de plume, the noms de guerre, or the noms de troll.

sage

We are just a classy group of individuals.

mr. synellinden
04-18-2012, 02:58 PM
This is from a Scout chat today on their new top 100:

Brad : ]
Rasheed Sulaimon- is he a big impact player out of the gate? Who would you compare his game to and what are his weaknesses (aside from strength given his frame)? Thanks
Wednesday April 18, 2012 1:41 Brad
1:42
Brian Snow: With Austin Rivers moving on and Gbinije transferring, I think Sulaimon gets real minutes from day one. He is a big time shooter and an elite defender. That combination will get him on the court very early at Duke.

MCFinARL
04-18-2012, 04:32 PM
Rasheed Sulaimon named second team ESPNHS All-America. http://espn.go.com/high-school/boys-basketball/story/_/id/7811369/2011-12-espnhs-boys-basketball-all-americans Weirdly this link says it was originally published in May of last year, but it is this year's team and I think it is new today.

Duke targets Tony Parker (3rd team) and Amile Jefferson (4th team) also on the list.

Big Pappa
04-18-2012, 04:33 PM
Rasheed Sulaimon named second team ESPNHS All-America. http://espn.go.com/high-school/boys-basketball/story/_/id/7811369/2011-12-espnhs-boys-basketball-all-americans Weirdly this link says it was originally published in May of last year, but it is this year's team and I think it is new today.

Duke targets Tony Parker (3rd team) and Amile Jefferson (4th team) also on the list.

Other Duke targets Jabari Parker (1st team) and Julius Randle (2nd team).

MCFinARL
04-18-2012, 04:35 PM
Other Duke targets Jabari Parker (1st team) and Julius Randle (2nd team).

Good point! I was focused on 2012 and didn't look for the 2013 names.

gwlaw99
04-18-2012, 05:57 PM
Other Duke targets Jabari Parker (1st team) and Julius Randle (2nd team).

Any info yet as to whether we have a really good shot at either?

gwlaw99
05-21-2012, 10:33 AM
Not sure if this has been posted, but here is a great video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=c7pUOEagwL0) of Rasheed's ability to penetrate. He is definitely more than a shooter.

NM Duke Fan
05-21-2012, 11:06 AM
A very impressive video! There is little doubt in my mind he will be a key element in Duke's rotation early on, and he looks vastly quicker and more explosive than most of the current guards. If his D is near what is spoken of and as he catches on to Duke's system, wouldn't at all surprise me if he is a starter rather sooner than later. And if Cook is also up to speed with lateral quickness and has improved his D, we could be looking at a very dynamic guard duo.

mr. synellinden
05-21-2012, 11:08 AM
Not sure if this has been posted, but here is a great video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=c7pUOEagwL0) of Rasheed's ability to penetrate. He is definitely more than a shooter.

Boy, in that video he really reminds me of Nolan.

UrinalCake
05-21-2012, 11:16 AM
Boy, in that video he really reminds me of Nolan.

I know this is just a highlight video but I don't think Nolan had that kind of handle as a freshman. Really looking forward to seeing Rasheed next year.

gwlaw99
05-21-2012, 11:35 AM
A very impressive video! There is little doubt in my mind he will be a key element in Duke's rotation early on, and he looks vastly quicker and more explosive than most of the current guards. If his D is near what is spoken of and as he catches on to Duke's system, wouldn't at all surprise me if he is a starter rather sooner than later. And if Cook is also up to speed with lateral quickness and has improved his D, we could be looking at a very dynamic guard duo.

You may be right and it would be odd to see Curry coming off the bench, but it may happen.

gumbomoop
05-21-2012, 12:16 PM
You may be right and it would be odd to see Curry coming off the bench, but it may happen.

Several promising newcomers, 4 to be exact. We think/almost know that Alex will start and Marshall will back up his brother at the 5. We know Alex won't play 35 mpg, so there are 15 or so mpg at wing/SF. If Amile, a 4-who-looks-like-a-3, can play wing/SF D, that eliminates much worry about having to go with a 3-guard lineup for very long.

But if Amile comes along a little more slowly, and if - as some combo of guru-talk, eye-test, EK poster-enthusiasm, and sheer rumor seem to imply - Rasheed is an immediate contributor, we might see more 3-guard than last season's concerns might make us prefer.

We know that Rasheed begins as Seth's backup, say, 10 mpg. Is Amile the main backup for Alex? Or is that Rasheed, too? Or do Amile and Rasheed share time as Alex's backup at the wing/SF?

TBD, maybe 7-8 months from now. We'll all be mad at each other by then. But we'll still love our guys, new, returning, redshirts, NBA, Europe, even some transfers.

Jderf
05-21-2012, 12:20 PM
We'll all be mad at each other by then.

Wait, we're not mad at each other yet?

Steven43
05-21-2012, 12:44 PM
You may be right and it would be odd to see Curry coming off the bench, but it may happen.

I think Curry coming off the bench would signal an improvement in the team, as I think he (and Tyler) should be backups at Duke.

tommy
05-21-2012, 01:01 PM
I think Curry coming off the bench would signal an improvement in the team, as I think he (and Tyler) should be backups at Duke.

I mentioned this is another thread a few months ago, but I agree. If a healthy Quinn Cook makes the
type of improvements we all are looking for, particularly defensively, then pairing him with a dynamic 2-way guard like Sulaimon, if he's as good and as ready as many seem to anticipate, I think that would be a very solid backcourt. Adding Sulaimon's size and defense, as opposed to Curry's strengths, would help in a number of areas.

Seth brings a lot, but I think having him off the bench as an instant offense scorer, still playing plenty of minutes, but without the responsibilities and pressure of being the starting 2-guard, would strengthen the team. I know many have said "no way. He's a senior starter no matter what." So I probably won't get to see what I'm envisioning here, but I do think the team might be better with that Cook-Sulaimon starting backcourt.

dukelifer
05-21-2012, 01:26 PM
I mentioned this is another thread a few months ago, but I agree. If a healthy Quinn Cook makes the
type of improvements we all are looking for, particularly defensively, then pairing him with a dynamic 2-way guard like Sulaimon, if he's as good and as ready as many seem to anticipate, I think that would be a very solid backcourt. Adding Sulaimon's size and defense, as opposed to Curry's strengths, would help in a number of areas.

Seth brings a lot, but I think having him off the bench as an instant offense scorer, still playing plenty of minutes, but without the responsibilities and pressure of being the starting 2-guard, would strengthen the team. I know many have said "no way. He's a senior starter no matter what." So I probably won't get to see what I'm envisioning here, but I do think the team might be better with that Cook-Sulaimon starting backcourt.

Maybe it is me - but he certainly does not look 6'4" on the court or he is playing against some really big players. At 15 seconds he gets announced and comes up to a teammate. If he is 6'4" then that kid must be 6'10 or taller- but they have no one on his team listed at over 6'6". Don't get me wrong- this kid is going to be great- but he is only adding size because he is taller than Seth, Quinn and Tyler which is really not saying too much.

fgb
05-21-2012, 01:30 PM
[QUOTE=tommy;578333] I know many have said "no way. He's a senior starter no matter what."

not sure who has said that, but coach k is not a part of that group.

gumbomoop
05-21-2012, 01:50 PM
[QUOTE=tommy;578333] I know many have said "no way. He's a senior starter no matter what."

not sure who has said that, but coach k is not a part of that group.

I, too, doubt that K's standard position is that seniors who have proven themselves are assured of starting as seniors.

But I don't doubt that Seth has some advantages coming into next fall: experience, quick hands on D, 3-bomber, a pull-up 2, and knowing K's systems. Further, although he's certainly nothing close to a classic PG, neither is Rasheed. Seth's handle is good, not excellent. Rasheed's handle is good, not yet excellent.

I assume Seth will start out starting, and, ok, could conceivably become something like a co-6th man with Tyler. That will depend on how quickly Rasheed gets up to speed on several things, and possibly how moving Seth out of the starting lineup, absent an obvious superiority by the new guy, would affect team chemistry-vibes.

In any case, unless we are over-gushing about Rasheed - possibly the intoxicating anticipation of summer vegetables out there growing as we speak - he might pick up something loosely like starter minutes. Duke's top 7 should each get 20-30 mpg, yes?

Ichabod Drain
05-21-2012, 01:55 PM
Maybe it is me - but he certainly does not look 6'4" on the court or he is playing against some really big players. At 15 seconds he gets announced and comes up to a teammate. If he is 6'4" then that kid must be 6'10 or taller- but they have no one on his team listed at over 6'6". Don't get me wrong- this kid is going to be great- but he is only adding size because he is taller than Seth, Quinn and Tyler which is really not saying too much.

His official measurements for the Nike Hoops Summit were 6' 4.25" in shoes with a 6'8" wingspan. I believe he was directly comparing Rasheed to Seth here. So height would be added, even if it's just a small amount, if he replaced Seth.

elvis14
05-21-2012, 02:33 PM
I think Curry coming off the bench would signal an improvement in the team, as I think he (and Tyler) should be backups at Duke.


I mentioned this is another thread a few months ago, but I agree. If a healthy Quinn Cook makes the
type of improvements we all are looking for, particularly defensively, then pairing him with a dynamic 2-way guard like Sulaimon, if he's as good and as ready as many seem to anticipate, I think that would be a very solid backcourt. Adding Sulaimon's size and defense, as opposed to Curry's strengths, would help in a number of areas.

Seth brings a lot, but I think having him off the bench as an instant offense scorer, still playing plenty of minutes, but without the responsibilities and pressure of being the starting 2-guard, would strengthen the team. I know many have said "no way. He's a senior starter no matter what." So I probably won't get to see what I'm envisioning here, but I do think the team might be better with that Cook-Sulaimon starting backcourt.

Stephen43 and tommy I agree with you guys on this. I've said that I really hope that Rasheed is good enough for this to happen and I agree that I think Seth has the game of a great 6th man. I try not to say it around here too often, I don't want to seem down on Tyler and Seth but I just think we need others to step up to take us to the next level (meaning for us to continue and progress and get better all the way through the season and tournaments to the point were we have a real shot at the end).

dukelifer
05-21-2012, 03:10 PM
His official measurements for the Nike Hoops Summit were 6' 4.25" in shoes with a 6'8" wingspan. I believe he was directly comparing Rasheed to Seth here. So height would be added, even if it's just a small amount, if he replaced Seth.

Looking forward to standing next to him. If he is taller than me in sneakers- I will know. Henderson (6' 5" in shoes) and Reddick (6' 4.75" in shoes) were taller- Seth, Quinn, Nolan, Tyler are/were not

roywhite
05-21-2012, 03:15 PM
Looking forward to standing next to him. If he is taller than me in sneakers- I will know. Henderson (6' 5" in shoes) and Reddick (6' 4.75" in shoes) were taller- Seth, Quinn, Nolan, Tyler are/were not

Great...lol...a new unit of measure for hoops talk?

taller than dukelifer, not as tall as dukelifer, not within 2 inches of dukelifer, etc.
could be right there with "cinder blocks" for board jargon

dukelifer
05-21-2012, 03:50 PM
Great...lol...a new unit of measure for hoops talk?

taller than dukelifer, not as tall as dukelifer, not within 2 inches of dukelifer, etc.
could be right there with "cinder blocks" for board jargon

absolutely. I am happy to serve this role.

TruBlu
05-21-2012, 04:16 PM
I know this is just a highlight video but I don't think Nolan had that kind of handle as a freshman. Really looking forward to seeing Rasheed next year.

I counted only 3 (three) opposing uniforms in that highlight video. If the kid can have that many highlights in only three games . . .

Yep, I'm really looking forward also.

Kedsy
05-21-2012, 04:26 PM
We know that Rasheed begins as Seth's backup, say, 10 mpg.


Duke's top 7 should each get 20-30 mpg, yes?

I agree with your second statement quoted above and not your first. I believe Rasheed will get at least 20 mpg from the get-go.

On the other hand, I don't think there's any legitimate chance that Seth doesn't start. I think those of you calling for him to be the 6th man are selling him way short. He was our second leading scorer, and 3rd team All-ACC last year, and assuming Andre takes the year off, Seth is our best outside shooter (though Ryan actually had a slightly higher 3-point percentage in many fewer attempts).

Personally, I believe there would be a greater chance of a Rasheed/Seth starting backcourt than a Quinn/Rasheed starting backcourt, although I don't really think either of those are particularly likely. Assuming Andre redshirts, I don't think it matters so much, though, because all four guards should get 20+ minutes. I hope nobody is disappointed if Seth gets 30+, though, because I'll be pretty surprised if he doesn't. I'm not saying that because he's a senior, I'm saying it because he's our best perimeter player.

dukelifer
05-21-2012, 05:13 PM
I agree with your second statement quoted above and not your first. I believe Rasheed will get at least 20 mpg from the get-go.

On the other hand, I don't think there's any legitimate chance that Seth doesn't start. I think those of you calling for him to be the 6th man are selling him way short. He was our second leading scorer, and 3rd team All-ACC last year, and assuming Andre takes the year off, Seth is our best outside shooter (though Ryan actually had a slightly higher 3-point percentage in many fewer attempts).

Personally, I believe there would be a greater chance of a Rasheed/Seth starting backcourt than a Quinn/Rasheed starting backcourt, although I don't really think either of those are particularly likely. Assuming Andre redshirts, I don't think it matters so much, though, because all four guards should get 20+ minutes. I hope nobody is disappointed if Seth gets 30+, though, because I'll be pretty surprised if he doesn't. I'm not saying that because he's a senior, I'm saying it because he's our best perimeter player.

Another point about Seth is that he could get better this year. We have a tendency to think these guys have reached their peaks. He showed some improvement last year- but was not consistent. If he works on his handle and passing- he could get to another level.

tommy
05-21-2012, 05:17 PM
I hope nobody is disappointed if Seth gets 30+, though, because I'll be pretty surprised if he doesn't. I'm not saying that because he's a senior, I'm saying it because he's our best perimeter player.

All of this presumes a certain set of high level skills by Rasheed, of course, which few of us are in a position to presume, given our limited ability to see him play in real practices and games.

But with that caveat, do you really think Seth is our best perimeter player, or would it be more accurate to say you think he's our best perimeter shooter?

When I think about all the components to a perimeter player's game, I think primarily about shooting, driving ability, ballhandling, passing/distributing, and defense. Seth is an excellent shooter, and he improved his driving ability last year. His ballhandling is OK for a guy his size, nothing special really. And he didn't overwhelm anybody (or at least I don't think so) last year with his passing or his defense -- the latter somewhat a function of his size.

I think Quinn's handle, his driving ability, and his passing are, or will be, superior to Seth's this year. I expect Rasheed's driving ability, defense, and perhaps ballhandling and passing to be at or above Seth's level. I could be wrong about that. Tyler's defense is better than Seth's, most would agree. Taking all the factors into consideration, I don't know, I'm not sure I agree that Seth is going to be our best perimeter player. I hope he improves on a number of areas over the summer so that the statements I've made in this paragraph are wrong. We'll have to wait and see.

If the guys play at the level I am envisioning, I think that if Seth didn't start, we could still have Rasheed and Ryan Kelly as very good outside shooters, with Murphy and Quinn able to knock down jumpshots as well. Those are four guys that can hit it. Quinn and Rasheed could handle the ball, and Murphy sounds like he'll be able to help out with that as needed from the 3 position as well. With that lineup, plus Seth as instant offense off the bench, I kinda like the balance of that team.

roywhite
05-21-2012, 07:19 PM
If the guys play at the level I am envisioning, I think that if Seth didn't start, we could still have Rasheed and Ryan Kelly as very good outside shooters, with Murphy and Quinn able to knock down jumpshots as well. Those are four guys that can hit it. Quinn and Rasheed could handle the ball, and Murphy sounds like he'll be able to help out with that as needed from the 3 position as well. With that lineup, plus Seth as instant offense off the bench, I kinda like the balance of that team.

Seems plausible enough, though it may take a while to shake out.

In some ways, it could be a tough adjustment for Seth if he were asked to come off the bench as a senior, but it could work because of Seth's solid character and Coach K's ability to shape the narrative, then get everybody aboard and liking it.

Newton_14
05-21-2012, 08:29 PM
absolutely. I am happy to serve this role.

Ok so we will be needing a picture of you in front of a cinderblock wall, so we will have your official measurements. Be sure to spread your arms as we might as well get your wingspan at the same time. :)

UrinalCake
05-21-2012, 10:24 PM
I think Curry coming off the bench would signal an improvement in the team, as I think he (and Tyler) should be backups at Duke.

In theory that makes sense but I don't think that's how it would happen as the season progresses. Seth will start over Rasheed at the beginning of the season. I think we all pretty much agree on that. As long as we keep winning, I think he'll continue to start, regardless of how well Rasheed plays. The only way he would lose his starting job is if we lose (think OSU, yikes!) or if he's just playing awfully even though the team is winning. And I don't see that situation being an improvement for the team.

Kedsy
05-21-2012, 10:53 PM
But with that caveat, do you really think Seth is our best perimeter player, or would it be more accurate to say you think he's our best perimeter shooter?

I don't think Seth's just a shooter. I think he's a scorer. He's too small and not quite quick enough to be an outstanding defensive player, I'll grant you, but he has very quick hands. If Rasheed (or Quinn, being a year beyond his injury, or Tyler, if he learns to stay in front of his man) can bottle up the opposing PG, then I think Seth's off-ball defense becomes valuable too. Plus his experience, which perhaps is not sufficient on its own to merit a starting job but certainly can be a factor, no? Seth wasn't All ACC just because of his shooting.

I am not posturing when I say I'll be very surprised if Seth plays fewer than 30 minutes a game. My crystal ball is a bit foggy looking at Rasheed's minutes or Quinn's or Tyler's (although absent Andre I'm assuming they'll all play between 20 and 30 mpg), but I feel pretty confident about Seth's.

gumbomoop
05-21-2012, 11:12 PM
I agree with your second statement quoted above and not your first. I believe Rasheed will get at least 20 mpg from the get-go.

....all four guards should get 20+ minutes. I hope nobody is disappointed if Seth gets 30+, though, because I'll be pretty surprised if he doesn't. I'm not saying that because he's a senior, I'm saying it because he's our best perimeter player.

I wasn't clear enough in my post. When I said Rasheed would get 10 mpg as Seth's backup, I didn't mean that's all he would get. Rather, I mean Seth will start, Rasheed will be his backup, but also get maybe another 10 at the other wing (SF). Hence my reference to Rasheed possibly getting "something loosely like starter minutes." That's why you agree with the second statement, because you [and I and many others] see Rasheed as one of Duke's top 7.

Thus, it's likely that you actually agree with both those tag quotes of mine. None of this is very controversial, but because - as I posted somewhere - Duke has only 2 players who are single-position guys [Quinn and Marshall], once we start talking about various players and their mpg, we almost have to re-invent the wheel, and list/predict every player's minutes at multiple positions.

Just wanted to try to clear that up. After our posts above, there have been other informative posts.

tommy
05-21-2012, 11:41 PM
I don't think Seth's just a shooter. I think he's a scorer. He's too small and not quite quick enough to be an outstanding defensive player, I'll grant you, but he has very quick hands. If Rasheed (or Quinn, being a year beyond his injury, or Tyler, if he learns to stay in front of his man) can bottle up the opposing PG, then I think Seth's off-ball defense becomes valuable too. Plus his experience, which perhaps is not sufficient on its own to merit a starting job but certainly can be a factor, no? Seth wasn't All ACC just because of his shooting.

I am not posturing when I say I'll be very surprised if Seth plays fewer than 30 minutes a game. My crystal ball is a bit foggy looking at Rasheed's minutes or Quinn's or Tyler's (although absent Andre I'm assuming they'll all play between 20 and 30 mpg), but I feel pretty confident about Seth's.

I agree with you that Seth has quick hands and actually he was decent at staying in front of his man -- better than Tyler and Quinn were. But I think most would agree that one of the main problems with Seth defensively is his size. Bigger shooting guards (and almost all of them are) outphysicaled him and shot over him on more than a few occasions. Our perimeter D was just too small. Playing Seth with Austin and Tyler, or with Austin and Quinn, didn't work for that reason. (it also often didn't work with the bigger Andre, for different reasons, but don't get me started.) I am not an insider, but I have to believe that being bigger and getting more physical on the perimeter is a priority for the staff heading into this year, and Rasheed would be a major component of that plan.

Yes, experience matters. It matters to you and I, and more importantly it matters to K. And it should. I think Seth should and will play a lot -- all I'm saying is that I think he might be more effective in a different role than the one he played last year, and the different (and I think better) construction of this year's roster might make it more feasible for him to assume that different role.

bob blue devil
05-22-2012, 08:07 AM
most of the talk here seems to be that Rasheed's minutes come at the expense of Seth, Alex and Andre (depending on whatever happens there, of course). is there any chance they come at the expense of tyler and quinn. seth at PG didn't work out great last year, but is it possible that he and rasheed fill that role for 15-25 minutes a game? people are putting a lot of stock in a dramatic improvement by quinn - it's certainly possible given natural development (hard work) and continued recovery from serious injury, but i worry it's more likely he'll be closer to the player we saw last year than the player we are hoping he can become.

CDu
05-22-2012, 08:52 AM
most of the talk here seems to be that Rasheed's minutes come at the expense of Seth, Alex and Andre (depending on whatever happens there, of course). is there any chance they come at the expense of tyler and quinn. seth at PG didn't work out great last year, but is it possible that he and rasheed fill that role for 15-25 minutes a game? people are putting a lot of stock in a dramatic improvement by quinn - it's certainly possible given natural development (hard work) and continued recovery from serious injury, but i worry it's more likely he'll be closer to the player we saw last year than the player we are hoping he can become.

I wouldn't be at all surprised to see Curry and Sulaimon sharing the court for large stretches of time. Curry played a fair amount of PG last year, too. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if that's our eventual starting backcourt next year.

If Dawkins redshirts and Jefferson plays exclusively at the PF spot then we'll have 5 guys for 3 spots. In that scenario we'll have enough minutes to go around for everyone (though it would mean a tiny SF for 15+ mpg). If either Jefferson or Dawkins plays at SF next year then we'll have a minutes crunch and someone will get squeezed.

Saratoga2
05-22-2012, 09:19 AM
Our roster still includes 3 guys who are around 6'1" and of average quickness and length. When two of our smaller guards are on the floor together, we have some serious defensive issues. Those include stopping penetration and being shot over by taller opponents. It appears the coaches have moved away from recruiting that kind of player with Rasheed and the 2013 players offered to date. Having quick point guards who can penetrate and guard other points is a good thing, even if they are smallish. Having two of that type of player on the roster gives you a starter and a backup. Having 3 on the roster creates and issue agaiinst the bigger teams.

CDu
05-22-2012, 09:35 AM
Our roster still includes 3 guys who are around 6'1" and of average quickness and length. When two of our smaller guards are on the floor together, we have some serious defensive issues. Those include stopping penetration and being shot over by taller opponents. It appears the coaches have moved away from recruiting that kind of player with Rasheed and the 2013 players offered to date. Having quick point guards who can penetrate and guard other points is a good thing, even if they are smallish. Having two of that type of player on the roster gives you a starter and a backup. Having 3 on the roster creates and issue agaiinst the bigger teams.

I don't think the height of our 3 small guards is a problem. It's the fact that we have 3 small guards who aren't quick and have trouble against quicker players. Plenty of teams (including really good ones) start 2 guards under 6'3". Butler even started 3 guards under 6'3" during much of their two great Tourney runs. The difference was that those teams had guys were really quick and good defensively. Curry and Cook were not very quick or very good defensively last year, and Thornton was not a great on-ball defender against quicker players (he actually did better against bigger, slower players).

I'm hopeful that a healthier Cook is quicker and better defensively than he was last year. We'll see, though.

roywhite
05-22-2012, 09:43 AM
Our roster still includes 3 guys who are around 6'1" and of average quickness and length. When two of our smaller guards are on the floor together, we have some serious defensive issues. Those include stopping penetration and being shot over by taller opponents. It appears the coaches have moved away from recruiting that kind of player with Rasheed and the 2013 players offered to date. Having quick point guards who can penetrate and guard other points is a good thing, even if they are smallish. Having two of that type of player on the roster gives you a starter and a backup. Having 3 on the roster creates and issue agaiinst the bigger teams.

Last year's problems? perhaps, but a healthier Quinn Cook and the addition of potentially a fine defender in Sulaimon could be big plusses.

I'll also wager that Coach K will be on a crusade to improve the defense of this team vs last year's.

CDu
05-22-2012, 09:50 AM
Last year's problems? perhaps, but a healthier Quinn Cook and the addition of potentially a fine defender in Sulaimon could be big plusses.

I'll also wager that Coach K will be on a crusade to improve the defense of this team vs last year's.

Yeah, Sulaimon, Murphy, Jefferson, and a healthy Cook could go a long way toward addressing some of the following problems of last year's team:
- slow PG unable to create for others (perhaps a healthier Cook will help here)
- poor defense at the guard spots (Sulaimon and perhaps a healthier Cook will help here)
- undersized and poor rebounding from the SF spot (Murphy and perhaps Jefferson will help here)
- lack of quickness and versatility at PF (Jefferson will help here)

There's a lot to make up for with the losses of Miles and Rivers and the possible redshirt of Dawkins. But Sulaimon, Murphy, Jefferson, Marshall, and a healthier Cook should more than offset those losses.

BlueDevilCorvette!
05-22-2012, 10:08 AM
I don't think the height of our 3 small guards is a problem. It's the fact that we have 3 small guards who aren't quick and have trouble against quicker players. Plenty of teams (including really good ones) start 2 guards under 6'3". Butler even started 3 guards under 6'3" during much of their two great Tourney runs. The difference was that those teams had guys were really quick and good defensively. Curry and Cook were not very quick or very good defensively last year, and Thornton was not a great on-ball defender against quicker players (he actually did better against bigger, slower players).

I'm hopeful that a healthier Cook is quicker and better defensively than he was last year. We'll see, though.

Can anyone recall what exactly Notre Dame did to defeat Syracuse last year (outside of hitting their shots)? Perhaps the blueprint to defeating a team that's bigger, quicker and more athletic than you can be dulplicated from time to time with success. However, I would truly like to see Duke play more of a true zone (sometimes).

CDu
05-22-2012, 11:52 AM
Can anyone recall what exactly Notre Dame did to defeat Syracuse last year (outside of hitting their shots)? Perhaps the blueprint to defeating a team that's bigger, quicker and more athletic than you can be dulplicated from time to time with success. However, I would truly like to see Duke play more of a true zone (sometimes).

Syracuse played that game without Fab Melo, which made the Orange a much weaker team. Notre Dame also packed it in defensively and forced Syracuse to shoot (and miss) longer shots. But the biggest difference was the lack of Fab Melo.

greybeard
05-23-2012, 09:03 AM
Yeah, Sulaimon, Murphy, Jefferson, and a healthy Cook could go a long way toward addressing some of the following problems of last year's team:
- slow PG unable to create for others (perhaps a healthier Cook will help here)
- poor defense at the guard spots (Sulaimon and perhaps a healthier Cook will help here)
- undersized and poor rebounding from the SF spot (Murphy and perhaps Jefferson will help here)
- lack of quickness and versatility at PF (Jefferson will help here)

There's a lot to make up for with the losses of Miles and Rivers and the possible redshirt of Dawkins. But Sulaimon, Murphy, Jefferson, Marshall, and a healthier Cook should more than offset those losses.

I think that Duke improves dramatically and immediately right out of the box. Sulaimon can play the one or the two, and, while dangerous as a shooter and scorer inside the defense, you will notice neither as his distinguishing feature on the court. The guy can play and loves the game, that is, the five on five, both ends of the court, five on five game. He is real good at all of it. No, he won't win you games you would otherwise lose the way Rivers could, but he also won't put you in the position that he has to as Rivers could. The kid could well be the type of player you guys have gotten spoiled on, someone with a bit of Nolan Smith in him and perhaps more than a bit of Grant Hill in him. without the extraordnary package of height that all but defied imagination for the whole of who he was and what he did on the court in addition to the amazing snatches, throwdowns, and defense against talented guys with size. Sulaimon, I think, could well be the smart, athletic, skilled, and lover-of-synchronicity that can make Duke/Duke again.

Duke has needed a guy like Jefferson since Kyle left and perhaps before. Myle's best ball might well be in front of him; it seemed like it was ever m,ore so each game he played down the final stretch of his career. He had swag those final games that seemed to be of a piece with an ability to present and deliver as dangerous on the offensive end, a Man to be contended with on the other end, and a freakish athletic big when running the court. All that began really coming together on the court late in his days at Duke, too late for the real Miles to have been what he could be at Duke.

From what little I've read about Jefferson, he'll be and do whatever is needed to make people worry about him all the time that he is on the court. Will he be great? Who knows. But, he will hurt people in every way imaginable. Perhaps the player who will get the most benefit from Jefferson's presence is Kelly, whom I think will have to decide who he wants to be and be all he can be doing that. I'm not exactly sure what that last little turn of phrase means, but I think it captures where the upside of Kelly resides. As the teacher in the Karate Kid put it, "you ride on the left side of the road, okay, you ride on the right side, okay, you ride in the middle, squish." Ryan, I am not saying cannot have diverse ways of playing--diversity is nice. But, I think that he needs to decide if he is a big who can play little or a little who can play big. I think that there is a bit of ambiguity in his mind as to which it is, and that that ambiguity allows Ryan to hide when he should rise and prevail. Jefferson, I think, makes Ryan chose. I think I know what choice he will make, and that it will turn out great for Ryan and for Duke. I doubt that he will play "squish" any longer, and that will be of tremendous value.

The array of talent this year's team presents I think will permit much more movement of interior players to shake them free for catches with great position, for catches where their poise and skills will leave defenders with little chance. I have to think that Marshall Plumlee would surprise the heck about of people if we see some organized-movement, interior screens, etc, built in as first or second options in offensive sets/plays. If the kid catches it in the spots that Zeller routinely did, if he catches it even sometimes on the move with the space that Zeller did, he will be more than a handful to contend with, much more. That will take pressure off Mason and allow him to play with a sense of freedom that we have not seen. Jefferson, why Jefferson will be the wild card that no one will be able to account for, not with the kind of resources his game will demand. And, if he has some rookie games, so what. He'll be fighting for playing time with Harrison anyway.

We haven't yet begun to talk about where Murphy fits into all of this, how he can be utilized to change how the offense and defense for that matter presents. He will push Ryan as much as Jefferson to make up his mind and to be good at what he choses. He might also be on the court at the small forward or big guard when Duke is at its best, or will he Ryan? I think Murphy and Sulaimon will push Kevin to be more, how shall I say it, proactive on offense--that Duke will need less of the steadiness that he brought and was desperately needed last year. That doesn't necessarily mean more shooting or scoring, but rather more movement, movement that is more-fitting for a well rounded and good-decision making team.

Curry and Cook will be wild cards. I think that you will see Curry more as a two to Sulaimon at the one. Whatever Curry might give away in guarding a bigger 2, hey, the two is going to have fits trying to stop Curry's three and have no chance in the world staying with him if Curry goes when the three is overplayed. Besides, the inside help can now come from a variety of places in a variety of ways. I'm just guessing now, but defending the exterior for a guy like Curry might, in such contexts as Duke will present, require that Curry take away certain preferred options from the guy he is guarding and force the guy to go where he doesn't want to, where there will be danger both because that is the offensive guy's weakest option and because there is the strong potential of help. So, Curry's defense will, I am guessing, be far less of an issue than in the past.

Cook. Really, i couldn'tguess. Coming in I thought that he would be sensational, and he still might be. If he is, how Duke will look is beyond my vision. It will, however, will be a beautiful thing to see. If the guy regains his ability to have his feet under him and his body ready to deliver from the foul lane extended to the three line and beyond, his ability to bust defenses wide open could be alarming.

So, do I think that this year's team has reason to worry about what it lost? I don't think that that is the right question. Miles was contributing at an increasing rate that portended a possible dominating force as a power forward who could literally do it all. He seemed to be playing with a smile of a guy who discovered chocolate. Sure he'll be missed. And, Rivers, well the guy was lightening in a bottle and, if you needed one guy to carry you, he was as good as it gets this side of Kyrie. But, it was time for both to move on. As the kid said to his old man in the movie Sounder (before most of your times but it is a must see) as his father was driving him in a mule-pulled cart toward the train that would take him to college, "I'm sure gonna miss this place, but I ain't gonna worry about it." I wouldn't worry about Duke next year either.

Kedsy
05-23-2012, 10:43 AM
I think Murphy and Sulaimon will push Kevin to be more, how shall I say it, proactive on offense--that Duke will need less of the steadiness that he brought and was desperately needed last year.

This is a good post, and I agree with you that if things fall into place Duke could be very, very good next year despite the personnel losses. But who the heck is Kevin?

MChambers
05-23-2012, 11:22 AM
This is a good post, and I agree with you that if things fall into place Duke could be very, very good next year despite the personnel losses. But who the heck is Kevin?

I fear that Greybeard just disclosed our secret weapon.

Just guessing, but I think Kevin is either Alex or Ryan. Kevin goes well with Murphy and Kelly.

CDu
05-23-2012, 01:30 PM
[Sulaimon] could well be the type of player you guys have gotten spoiled on, someone with a bit of Nolan Smith in him and perhaps more than a bit of Grant Hill in him.

I definitely agree on the Nolan Smith comparison. I don't see the Grant Hill comparison at all. I think Smith is as perfect a comp as one can get for what Sulaimon can do, though.


From what little I've read about Jefferson, he'll be and do whatever is needed to make people worry about him all the time that he is on the court. Will he be great? Who knows. But, he will hurt people in every way imaginable. Perhaps the player who will get the most benefit from Jefferson's presence is Kelly. I think that [Kelly] needs to decide if he is a big who can play little or a little who can play big.

I don't think Kelly has much lack of clarity to his game. He's a perimeter-oriented PF (or stretch-4, for short). He's not a post player offensively. He's not a perimeter player defensively. He's like a poor man's Dirk Nowitzki: he plays his offense from the outside in, with the perimeter shot being the staple of his game. I don't think that's going to change next year regardless of who backs him up at PF.


The array of talent this year's team presents I think will permit much more movement of interior players to shake them free for catches with great position, for catches where their poise and skills will leave defenders with little chance. I have to think that Marshall Plumlee would surprise the heck about of people if we see some organized-movement, interior screens, etc, built in as first or second options in offensive sets/plays. If the kid catches it in the spots that Zeller routinely did, if he catches it even sometimes on the move with the space that Zeller did, he will be more than a handful to contend with, much more. That will take pressure off Mason and allow him to play with a sense of freedom that we have not seen. Jefferson, why Jefferson will be the wild card that no one will be able to account for, not with the kind of resources his game will demand. And, if he has some rookie games, so what. He'll be fighting for playing time with Harrison anyway.

I doubt that Marshall and Mason will share the floor together, so I don't think Marshall will allow Mason to play more freely. Remember, Marshall, Jefferson, and Hairston (not Harrison) will likely be competing for the backup minutes to Mason and Kelly. That's about 20-25 minutes per game unless Jefferson also backs up Murphy at SF (which would mean about 30-35 minutes total for those 3 assuming we'll play 3 guards some of the time). So I don't think any of the 3 backup bigs are going to be huge impact players next year. Certainly not more than one of them. They'll be quality backups, but I don't see any of them starring next year.


We haven't yet begun to talk about where Murphy fits into all of this, how he can be utilized to change how the offense and defense for that matter presents. He will push Ryan as much as Jefferson to make up his mind and to be good at what he choses. He might also be on the court at the small forward or big guard when Duke is at its best, or will he Ryan? I think Murphy and Sulaimon will push Kevin to be more, how shall I say it, proactive on offense--that Duke will need less of the steadiness that he brought and was desperately needed last year. That doesn't necessarily mean more shooting or scoring, but rather more movement, movement that is more-fitting for a well rounded and good-decision making team.

Murphy will be the SF next year. Given the depth we have at SG and PF, he's not going to play either of those spots. He'll almost certainly be the starter at SF unless Dawkins decides not to redshirt. In that scenario, it's probably a toss-up.


Curry and Cook will be wild cards. I think that you will see Curry more as a two to Sulaimon at the one. Whatever Curry might give away in guarding a bigger 2, hey, the two is going to have fits trying to stop Curry's three and have no chance in the world staying with him if Curry goes when the three is overplayed. Besides, the inside help can now come from a variety of places in a variety of ways.

I think you're perhaps guilty of a bit of hyperbole here; Curry isn't quick for a PG or a SG. He's played most of his career at SG and hasn't been a blow-by scorer (even when we had Smith and Irving occupying attention at PG). Beyond that, I'm not sure that playing Sulaimon at PG is a great idea. I think it creates the same problems for him that it created for Nolan Smith early in Smith's career. It wasn't until Smith's senior year that he really became comfortable at PG. I don't know that it'll take Sulaimon quite as long to figure things out, but I do think he'll struggle in the PG role if he has to play it as a freshman. As such, I think the PG will be one of Cook, Curry, or Thornton (and more likely one of the first two).

DukieinSoCal
05-23-2012, 02:20 PM
One thing that I find interesting is that a few of our guys will likely be playing different positions on offense vs defense, depending on matchups.

Rasheed will likely play mostly SG on offense, maybe occasionally PG or SF, but on defense he may just draw the toughest perimeter player on the other team every night, whether it's a PG, SG, or SF. It seems likely he'll be our best one-on-one perimeter defender from all the reports and analysis so far. Curry just isn't quick or long enough to guard superior athletes. It remains to be seen how much Cook will improve as a defender as he returns to full health and gains experience/coaching. I do love Tyler's toughness and competitiveness but he fouls too much for my taste and I'm not sure how much playing time he'll be getting. I'm actually hoping that Quinn makes a leap and can handle most of the PG duties next year. I see so much potential in him.

With our bigs, I see Ryan defending the PF most of the time with Alex and Amile splitting time at the SF spot. But when we're on offense, Ryan will likely be somewhere out by the 3-point line most of the time. I'm not sure how comfortable Alex will be shooting the 3, but I suspect that he and Amile will be playing closer to the basket, either slashing to the basket or looking for offensive rebounds a lot. It sounds like Amile needs time to work on his shot but that he's very savvy around the paint area. In effect, Ryan will be the SF on offense while Alex and Amile will be more like PFs.

I'm not really sure if this all really matters but it may end up presenting matchup problems for other teams if we play things right. I'm sure the coaching staff is excited about the versatility of these guys and is already figuring out ways to exploit it. Can't wait to see how it all unfolds.

Ichabod Drain
06-08-2012, 08:56 AM
The USA u18 team roster has been cut from 23 to 14 with with Rasheed making the cut. The final roster will have 12 so he's not there yet but it would be great for him to make the team.

http://www.usabasketball.com/mens/u18/roster.html

gw67
06-08-2012, 12:33 PM
The USA u18 team roster has been cut from 23 to 14 with with Rasheed making the cut. The final roster will have 12 so he's not there yet but it would be great for him to make the team.

http://www.usabasketball.com/mens/u18/roster.html

Five of the fourteen will be playing in the ACC next year and a sixth will be playing for Pittsburgh.

gw67

moonpie23
09-13-2012, 12:24 PM
My son sam, meeting Rasheed at the Duke Eye clinic........Rasheed signed Sam's cap right next to Nolan, Kyle, Jon and Dr. Terry Kim !! lol

This guy is already coming across as one of the nicest duke players we've ever met.....totally approachable and extremely nice...

dukelifer
09-13-2012, 08:29 PM
My son sam, meeting Rasheed at the Duke Eye clinic........Rasheed signed Sam's cap right next to Nolan, Kyle, Jon and Dr. Terry Kim !! lol

This guy is already coming across as one of the nicest duke players we've ever met.....totally approachable and extremely nice...

The front page story on Amile (video link) shows we have another nice player. Coach K knows how to pick them.

MCFinARL
09-15-2012, 12:15 PM
My son sam, meeting Rasheed at the Duke Eye clinic........Rasheed signed Sam's cap right next to Nolan, Kyle, Jon and Dr. Terry Kim !! lol

This guy is already coming across as one of the nicest duke players we've ever met.....totally approachable and extremely nice...

Great pic! Thanks for sharing.