2013 MSU Basketball Recruiting Hotlist
by intrpdtrvlr on Jun 6, 2011 1:32 PM CDT
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PrintWith some new offers possibly around the corner and commitments to follow, it’s time to take a look at this year’s 2013 MSU Basketball Recruiting Hotlist. The dynamic in this class could not be more different than 2012. When talking about recruiting last summer, there was only a handful of likely Spartans in the mix for three to four spots. Though pressure was tight for room, it was tight amongst a small number of players. For 2013, there is a wealth of players to talk about; at least a dozen names are viable MSU targets receiving interest and potentially in line for offers. Available at MSU are anywhere from the one to three likely openings, making the importance of getting the right players even more intense. Reading through this list, predicting who will end up wearing the G&W is much harder than it has been in the past. That, for me, is part of the intrigue.
After the jump, there’s some commentary about the class by me, then the list of potential recruits with information on each individual player. It's a deep list but all of these players have MSU interest and can't be ruled out to join the Michigan State Spartans' future squad.
As a reminder, here’s how the roster for 2013-2014 shapes up right now:
PGs (2)
Appling (Sr), Trice (Jr.)
Wings (5)
Byrd (Rs Jr.), Dawson (Jr.), Kearney (Jr.), Anderson (Jr.), Valentine (Soph.)
Bigs (4)
Payne (Sr.), Gauna (Rs. Jr), Costello (So.), Kaminski (So.)
As I started thinking about this class (long enough ago as to be embarrassed), the need for a point guard seemed pretty clear. Keith Appling will have one year left and it makes sense to groom a player for a year to replace him and back-up Travis Trice. Recently, I’ve had a bit of a change of heart. MSU has recruited a very versatile set of players and the need for a true point in 2013 may not be what it once appeared. Part of this will depend on Denzel Valentine. Many have speculated that he could be a legitimate option to run the offense and handle the ball. In combination with Trice and Appling, that may be all you need for 2013-2014. The decision could also depend on whether the staff sees Trice as a starting, 30mpg player by his senior year.
The point guard class is rich enough on its own merit to tempt in-state coaches to take a long look. You have at least four players – Derrick Walton, Monte Morris, Denzel Watts, and Charles "Cha Cha" Tucker – viewed as D1 targets with opinions varying on who of the four is the superior player. Add to that list two wings, E.C. Matthews and Dontel Highsmith, who could be combo-type players for the right program. So, on top of the "to PG or not to PG" question is the determination of who to pursue and in what fashion. Does Izzo wait to extend offers as the top dogs continue to distinguish themselves through the summer and into next season (I’m thinking an Alex Gauna/Jon Horford recruitment here)? Does he identify a favorite and focus all his attention? Or does he offer multiple players at the position knowing the program is assurded to get a good one on first-come basis?
Another question for the class is how does Izzo handle Jabari Parker. Up to now, Michigan State has been actively and sincerely pursuing Jabari despite the infrequency with which Izzo goes after top five recruits. Parker and his family have stated their intention to wait until his senior year to make a decision and Duke and Washington are viewed as leaders. Does Izzo hold a spot open and risk losing out on other players, or does he move on earlier and select someone to fill Parker’s needed role as a forward?
In addition, coaches are also always looking ahead. With a potential five-star wing in Drake Harris (2014) playing on the state's west coast, does MSU hold off an taking a pure wing in 2013 to entice Drake Harris to join a backcourt already full of upperclassmen?
All these uncertainties and scenarios are the intriguing aspect of recruiting that hooks me. This should definitely be a fun summer for fans who enjoy following basketball recruiting, including more competition between Tom Izzo and John Beilein. I don’t think it’ll be as easy for MSU going forward as it was to snatch Denzel Valentine and Matt Costello. Does JB win his first head-to-head recruiting matchup against the dean of the Big Ten by getting someone like Derrick Walton or Demetrius Jackson to wear maize and blue? Regardless, there's enough talent for not only MSU and UM to haul good to great classes but probably Oakland, Detroit, and some others as well.
I’ll be bold and make a few long-range predictions:
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James Young will end up a Spartan eventually. It may happen after Gary Harris goes elsewhere but I think his size, athleticism, and talent will be enough to earn him an offer. Though adding a wing isn’t a true need, Izzo is clearly willing to do it with Harris in 2012 and he may take the same opportunity with Young in the next class instead. If I’m surprised and Gary Harris goes for MSU, I will humbly revoke this prediction.
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MSU will continue to recruit after filling their two scholarship spots for 2013, leading to Trey Zeigler/Gary Harris-style speculation all over again about where a spot might come from. Dawson/ Payne to the NBA or a transferring wing will be the most likely explanations. This will happen one of two ways - either Izzo fills his backcourt spots and continue to pursue Jabari Parker into Parker's senior year, or Izzo will take a wing and post player then roll the dice on still being able to get a quality PG late in the deep class.
On to the list:
Point Guards
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Dontel Highsmith Highsmith may not be the hottest name in Michigan prep hoops but credit ESPN for noticing him and sneaking Dontel into the lower rungs of the Top 100. Highsmith (like Denzel Valentine) has been fighting through injuries for much of the time around his sophomore season. This has prevented him from showing off his quickness and athleticism. I think predicating a Valentine-esque take-off in offers and attention might be ambitious but if this young player can get healthy and display his skill at 100%, he may complicate the discussion of who are the best guards in Michigan. At 6’2", Highsmith possesses the size to offer one advantage over some of his shorter peers. Still, I wouldn’t call it unanimous that Highsmith is a PG at the next level though he may be able to play a combo role instead of being stuck as a small wing.
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Demetrius Jackson
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Jalen James (Illinois Verbal) Despite the wealth of point guards already out there for Michigan State, it was recently reported by Jalen's coach that MSU has started to inquire about this Illinois product. In one interview that should excite MSU fans, James starts off by stating his love of defense and his ability to convert defensive pressure into points. According to InsideTheHall, his current offers are Baylor and Cleveland State but the Big Ten has coming calling with looks from Illinois, Wisconsin, Northwestern, and Michigan. UM Hoops has recent video from Spiece. |
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Monte "Man Man" Morris Morris’ lack of national rankings are deceiving. I think most observers would put him close to the top of the Michigan point guard food chain right next to Derrick Walton. Whereas Walton is known for what he helps others to do with superb court vision, Morris is acclaimed for some serious "with the ball" ability such as an impeccable handle moving around the court. Morris also carries a solid frame and should mature into a quick player strong enough to bang with bigger guards. A recruiting angle to watch is definitely how MSU and UM play Morris along with Walton. Who does each coach respectively prefer? If Walton chooses UM, Morris could be your next MSU point guard.
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Charles "Cha Cha" Tucker
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Derrick Walton (U-M Verbal) Walton is considered one of the top point guards in the state of Michigan for his class, if not the undisputed 1A man. Walton has made his name for distribution ability and exceptional court vision grabbing the attention of everyone from Evan Daniels, Steve Bell, Sam Webb, and beyond. Averaging over 20 points as a freshman and sophomore, he can score efficiently but Walton is shaping up to fit more as a traditional point guard than a lead guard meant to be the offense himself. In taking with UM Hoops recently, he mentioned his schools of interest as Michigan, Michigan State, Connecticut, Xavier, Northwestern, Western Michigan, Central Michigan and Stanford. With Walton's national profile, this list will almost definitely grow as more offers are rolled out.
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via media.mlive.com |
Denzel Watts As the lack of national rankings suggest, Watts is often considered on the second tier of Michigan point guards behind Walton and Morris. However, his fans would tell you that their respective abiliities are all close enough for Watts to move into that space with a solid AAU season and junior year. He’s got one fan in The Only Colors’ Patrick Hayes who included him in a feature on Flint PGs earlier this year. As Patrick notes, Watts is the "big guard" of the group with a solid, muscular frame more reminiscent of someone like Mateen Cleaves than Drew Neitzel. His recruitment is still developing with the in-state schools in the mix waiting for their classes to shake out. He recently stated a preference to bring his type of physical game to the Big Ten or Big East.
Here's a link to casual interview conducted recently by Eric Woodyard of the Flint Journal where he talks to Denzel about where he sees himself in the legacy of great Flint guards.
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Wings
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via blogs.heraldtimesonline.com |
V.J. Beachem (Notre Dame Verbal) V.J. visited the weekend of the June 3rd on his second unofficial trip to Michigan State so it’s clear he’s interested in the university. Whether Michigan State likes him enough to offer a scholarship is yet to be revealed. Beachem is a highly effective offensive player with a range of skills to score. Standing close to 6’7", he’ll need to add mass to compete at the Big Ten level. According to ESPN, his defensive work requires a large amount of improvement and that could be one barrier to an MSU offer. His only current offer is from Purdue but he reports a long list of interest from Butler, Indiana, Purdue, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Cincinnati, Xavier, Michigan, Michigan State, Georgetown, Tennessee and Florida
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Tony Farmer Tony is a difficult player to position right now and he is best described as a combo forward. Unlike some of the players MSU is looking at who stand around 6’6" but are well shy of 200lbs, Farmer is a player with a strong frame and build. Most of his game is based near the paint and he’s not known as a big-time perimeter scorer. Probably shy of 6’7", Farmer doesn’t have ideal size for a true post player. Though it was passed around on twitter that Tony possesses an MSU offer, he is not listed as holding one by most recruiting services. Recently, Eric Stovall of ESPN offered this take, "He is a versatile offensive player who has really improved in the past year. He still does not give a consistent effort, but when he is engaged he can impact the game with scoring and rebounding. Farmer is a streaky shooter with range to 20 feet and can put the ball on the floor, especially going right. He is a solid rebounder when crashing in from the wing and is especially good on the offensive glass. He still struggles some in space defensively, but that may be the final piece to the puzzle." |
via greatlakeshoops |
Steve Haney, Jr. Haney is another local to MSU player, playing alongside Charles Tucker at Lansing Eastern. Entering high school at nearly 6’4", Haney has been on the radar as a prospect for many years. A very good shooter, Haney should have more opportunities to score as a junior for a high-profile team that has been making deep tournament runs. Like an MSU recruit such as Brandan Kearney, Haney Jr. needs to spend time demonstrating that he is both physical and driven enough to play for a school like Michigan State. He has interest from Notre Dame, Tennessee, Boston College, Michigan, and Michigan State. |
via 4.bp.blogspot |
Zak Irvin (U-M Verbal) Zak Irvin plays high school basketball alongside another MSU recruit you may have heard of, Gary Harris. This means MSU has seen Irvin in action in a lot and there is reported mutual interest that may be heating up instead of cooling off. Irvin has impressive regional offers from Purdue, Xavier, Illinois, and Indiana, as well as looks from places like Baylor and Miami (Fl.). |
via media.scout.com |
E.C. Matthews Evan Daniels of Scout hit me with a tweet and previewed how highly he thinks of Matthews as a point guard. That remains to be seen and Matthews-as-PG doesn’t appear to be the unanimous scouting report. Matthews has been playing off the bench for an upperclassmen-heavy Romulus squad but his elevation to junior status plus the departure of Ray Lee for prep school should allow him to feature his skills during the upcoming season. Already one of the state's top junior guards by reputation, he's a player whose stock improve could move as more schools and scouts watch him play.
Live4BallDotCom has recent Spiece footage showing some of Matthews highlights.
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Jabari Parker Parker hardly needs any introduction or paragraph. He is a consensus top five player and ranked by many as the best player in the 2013 class. This recruitment should be an extended one and the Parkers recently re-stated their commitment to exploring every avenue of the recruiting process, including a senior year decision timeline following five official and in-home visits. Right now, MSU is in the thick it off it, joining Kansas, Duke, Washington, and Illinois as Parker’s top five. One storyline to watch is what role Jabari takes on at the next level. MSU’s need for a post player in 2013 is apparent. Could Parker fill that need as a quick, athletic versatile power forward or he is better positioned as big, attacking wing player? I'm sure MSU will take him either way. |
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James Young Check out this nice article/photoshoot/video feature from miprepzone for more information on Young, including his hope to reach 6'9." |
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Byron Zeigler Zeigler is another in the long list of big wings MSU has been targeting recently. He’s a prime example of the lack of consensus in recruit rankings at this stage. From the buzz I’d heard, he wasn’t someone I expected to be ranked by Rivals as top 75 prospect. On that beat, I am hesitant when I see Zeigler’s offer sheet including the name Michigan State amongst Indiana, Iowa State, and CMU. Could Bryon really call up Tom Izzo tomorrow and become a Spartan by accepting a full scholarship offer? Hard to say. Still, there’s a lot to recommend him and he was recently cited as a standout at the Spiece Run-and-Slam by both national and local analysts. |
Bigs
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Mark Donnal (U-M Verbal) Mark is a greatly improved player who is still a work in progress and he displays a game similar to players MSU has been bringing in with recent classes (Gauna, Kaminski, Costello). Donnal currently does not have big-time back to the basket game but he’s a solid mid-range shooter and is effective when facing up. Already possessing good size, he’s one to watch and could be an option if Coach Izzo decides to get a post player before hearing from Jabari Parker. |
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Leo Edwards Big men naturally take more time to develop, hence the comparatively fewer number of players on our list who you might consider a true post. The 2013 Michigan class (currently) lacks a player with the renown of recent names like DeShonte Riley, Amir Williams, and Matt Costello. One player with the potential to take a shot at that spot is the 6’8" Edwards who will be joining Romulus next season. Nine months ago over at BankHoops, Steve Bell called him the #1 2013 player in the state. I don’t know if he’d hold to that today but perhaps he might if you asked him. Like most young bigs, Edwards is the sort of player who still has a lot to prove and I wouldn’t put him in the frontlines to receive an offer from MSU soon. Down the road? Perhaps. |
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via media.scout.com |
Alex Foster It’s not clear how aggressively MSU is looking at Alex Foster but his name comes up as an MSU player of interest. With a solid offer sheet of Illinois, DuPaul, Northwestern, and Purdue, he makes sense as a player to watch. Foster also plays for the Chicago area power De La Salle. Not only is Izzo and staff spending more time recruiting that region, but Izzo has already seen Foster play while recruiting Mike Shaw for 2013. He’s some sophomore year video of Alex on the court. |
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Thomas Hamilton, Jr. If Thomas Hamilton were to become a Spartan, there’d be no ambiguity about whether he would fit the role of a post player. Hamilton is a big load of a true center. Hamilton is an incredibly intriguing player with a great set of versatile skills to match his impressive stature. You may recall his father Thomas Hamilton who was a giant 7’2", 330lb NBA center so there’s no telling how young "Tommy" will continue to grow. Though it’s always hard to confirm these things so early, he is rumored to be one of the 2013 Michigan State recruits already holding an offer. On this one in particular, I’m not skeptical. You can see a mixtape of his sophomore season here. |
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Maverick Morgan
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via media.scout.com |
Jonathan Williams (added 6/11/11) Thanks to MSUinMD for bringing this name to my attention! According to Rivals, Williams lists MSU as a program heavily recruiting him along with list of schools including Kentucky, Texas, North Carolina, Memphis and Florida. Williams started turning heads when he showed up as a high school student already standing close to 6’8". He suffered injuries which slowed his development and recognition but Jonathan has come back strong as his consensus five-star rating suggests. This is another interesting recruitment with Izzo again demonstrating that he’s willing to mix it up with heavy hitters, this time for a player farther out of the typical MSU recruitng radius. Here’s a video from last winter of a player PM Hoops compares to Lamar Odom.
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Mark Williams It was MSU’s 24/7 site that broke the news of the mutual interest between Mark Williams and Michigan State. Mark told Dan Kilbridge that MSU coaches have been in to watch him multiple times and he’s receiving interest from the entire Big Ten. However, Williams has already announced that he’ll be making a decision on August 12th as gift to his mother. At the time, Indiana was reported as his only offer. My guess is that he will not be a Spartan by mid-August. Just in a case, here’s a CityLeagueHoops video from this spring.
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Dominic Woodson Woodson was one of the major winners coming out of July 2011 and AAU. He was the Player of the Week for NBE Basketball and received attention on twitter as one of the players who did the most to help his rankings and recruiting profile. He may be hard to get out of Texas with offers from UTEP, Tulsa, Texas Tech, and serious interest from UT. Schools like Vanderbilt, UConn, and Maryland have offered in an attempt to broaden Woodson’s options. Though still considered "raw" by Scouts, Dominic has shown the early ability to do everything you’d want out of a post – rebound, move the ball, run the floor, block shots, and score. Though this is far outside of MSU’s normal recruiting, solid sources say that Dane Fife is leading the charge for Woodson’s services and is serious about this player. Two things to watch – how seriously and by what means does MSU continue to recruit a Texan and precisely how high do scout’s evaluations of Woodson place him in the updated rankings? Don't let the "Unranked's" fool you.
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Comments
AAAAAAAAAHHHH
Opinions will be posted later. First Im expressing happiness. Looks like Im gonna be late to work today, the hotlist is too important.
Haven’t read it, but I’m sure it will lead to me doing nothing for the next hour.
by SpartanBoiler on Jun 6, 2011 5:06 PM CDT up reply actions
OK
My preferred class is (assuming we have two slots):
Jabari Parker
Derrick Walton
I really hope that if we lose out on Walton it wont be to UM. I think he is the best PG in state, never was a huge Cha Cha fan and Morris seems too small. I do think that Jalen James is intriguing and I wouldnt mind signing him.
Parker, Im willing to wait on. I want him. I want him bad.
If Parkers a no go, Im rooting Young or Farmer. I am interested what makes you so sure Young is going to be wearing the Green and White?
I won’t be suprised if Izzo bides his time. I think one of the reasons he locked up the past two classes so quickly was because he knew who he wanted and he also knew he needed to examine all the PGs closely to make the best decision as well as dedicating as much time to Parker as possible.
re: Young
Well, it’s a friendly prediction as much as some declaration of wisdom but I base it on two primary factors. In my mind, we’re recruiting three spots, even if only two are on the books. Gary Harris is one; that’s a wing. Now, what’s to say Izzo won’t take another guy in that role, especially if Harris goes elsewhere? Seems likely to me. If that is the case, I think Young is the man. He’s a big, athletic scoring wing, 6’5" and probably gaining inches. You’ve got an in-state, top-50 wing player with those credentials? I bet Izzo goes after him and gets him before 2013 recruiting is over.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
But
I still think that Jabari Parker and PGs are priorities first. Would you agree that it takes us either not getting Parker, Harris or a PG to take Young?
And which PG do u prefer?
It's a tricky play by Izzo
I definitely think that Harris and Young are an either/or scenario. I can’t see taking two more guards who aren’t likely to give you any post minutes. That’s why I say, I don’t think Izzo offers Young unless he doesn’t get or think he’s getting Harris or if he decides Young is just as good.
Parker is a tough call. Izzo only has a few spots and an elite player who wants to decide during his senior year. I don’t think Izzo has truly “held” a spot open for someone in that manner since Delvon Roe.
I defer to Izzo on the PGs, Really, they’re so close by most observers’ take and I haven’t seen a lot of all of them. Early on, I’d say Walton or Matthews (if one really believes he’s a full-time PG).
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
One nice thing
Is how deep and highly ranked this talent pool is. When I think about the fact that I have 4 stars as third choices at their position, thats a good problem.
Right, I can't imagine a scenario where MSU doesn't end up with very good class.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
and jwarsenal9 at tRCMB reminded me of this quote I've referenced before:
http://theoaklandpress.com/articles/2010/12/19/sports/local/doc4d0ec59f9472f322701750.txt
“I’m a big fan of Michigan State," he said. "I really like the way they play. It would be an honor to play there in the future, if things turned out that way."
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Another summer holiday-The Hotlist release date
I was wondering what we’d do this summer with 2012 being all filled, then Sherm transferred and the Harris Hunt continues making 2013 quite a mystery with so many variables. I was convinced that 2013 would be a PG year but I’m not so sure now. Especially if Harris signs up. I don’t think that one open scholarship can go to a point. Even if there’s an early departure I don’t see how you can add a point unless it’s somehow Trice.
It’s almost like Coach Izzo is changing the direction of his teams and emphasizing scoring over defense and rebounding with these prospects. I mean who cares if your lineup has Harris and Parker in it but what if you have neither?
Beyond this season only Keith, Dawson and Payne figure to be adequate defenders IMO and maybe Denzel. What happens when 2 or 3 of those guys are gone?
I really think there has to be a big in the mix, preferably one of the Chicago kids but that’s been tough sledding for Coach Izzo. I assume there’s no Izzo Shootout this year to get some Chicago schools to East Lansing.
Anyway, since I’m probably wrong, when they do opt for a PG my money’s on the shortest of the bunch. I’m convinced Coach Izzo prefers PG’s he can look in the eye without straining his neck.
"the game is out there, and it's play or get played. That simple" - Omar
Defense
I would agree it doesn’t sound like many of these kids are coming in with the “these guys were great defenders in high school” rep that guys like Walton or Raymar had coming out of HS. But, I think there are potentially some very good defenders already coming in.
Defense is much more complicated than effort and athleticism but those are still two of the main ingredients. Dwaun Anderson I think could be a very, very good wing defender. Gary Harris if we are fortunate enough to get him could be a very good defender. Trice doesn’t have a rep as an overwhelming athlete, but most reports are that he has very good court awareness, which can translate into defense as well as offense. I would agree there are some question marks for some of our bigs, but those are mostly “will these guys get strong enough”.
What I love about having these deep wing classes is there is going to be a lot of competition amongthese guys. That can give Izzo some leverage to say “If you aren’t going to play D, I’ve got a couple guys right behind you who will”
by trivialstuff16 on Jun 6, 2011 8:58 PM CDT up reply actions
Izzo and the lineup
I think you’re on the right track, Spartyball, though I’m not sure Izzo is ready to de-emphasize defense yet. I think part of what we’re seeing is Izzo adjusting to the trend in hoops of getting away from players with set positions based on size – one 6’ point guard, two 6’2-6’6" wings, one 6’8 PF, and a 6’11" center. Instead, you have a bunch of guys, 6’4-6’8", who have versatile skills and the ability to handle the ball. I could absolutely see a line-up of Valentine, Harris, Dawson, Parker, and Payne. I’d take that in a heartbeart. Am i going to complain because Parker isn’t an old-school protypical 4 or because Valentine isn’t a pure point? No way.
I’d sell Jabari Parker on being a fast, ball-handling college four in the model of Kevin Durant or someone like that.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
I can buy all of that
I’m sure somebody’s going to be able to guard. I even think BK can be a good defender with those long arms. He did a good job on Costello. Time will tell if this is the way. I just know UCONN won the chip with big man depth rebounding and defense.
"the game is out there, and it's play or get played. That simple" - Omar
by spartyball on Jun 7, 2011 9:08 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
For sure
Also, concerning defense, I think Izzo has said that the only guy who has come in really able to check people on the perimeter was Travis Walton. Appling may have entered the conversation too. Guys who ended up being called our best perimeter defender, Torbert, Allen, etc., were people who grew into that role. As you suggest, MSU can take long, athletic guys and make them into good defenders if the players have the “want to.”
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
I know that it's speculation and we'd have to be extremely lucky
But if we could get that lineup you mentioned of Valentine, Harris, Dawson, Parker and Payne, we would be unstoppable. That is UNC-2005-2009-we’re-definitely-winning-a-championship-esque. Not a guy under 6’4" and 4 definite NBA-ers, possibly first rounders, plus Izzo coaching them. Take away Harris or Parker and it still looks pretty damn good, depending on Valentine’s actual college skill set.
I highly doubt
That Valentine would start in front of Appling. But I do agree, that if Harris and Parker commit, and hopefully Walton (my personal fave along with James) then we will have two or three years which I would find reminiscent of the 1999-2001 run in that the team would be so deep that we could lose a couple and still compete for a title.
Think about the players who (according to me) could and should be major contributors, with a double digit scoring average at some point in their careers:
Appling, Payne, Kaminski, Byrd, Costello, Parker, Dawson, Harris. All those guys have the tools to average 10 ppg or more. I think maybe Costello waits a bit since he’d play behind Payne, and probably Gauna who I think also has that potential, although the odds are stacked against him if Parker commits. Parker maybe as a freshman would average more like 8, seeing as its an Izzo team, but he’d definitely have some breakout games I think. Point is, Izzo is setting up the most offensively versatile team we’ve seen in a while. I even think that Trice and Kearney/Dawson can become major contributors. If Kearney works on his shot and his defense progresses like it should with that wingspan, then he should be NBA Caliber. Anderson’s athleticism could be a difference maker for him. Trice, god he might get lost in the fold, but if he proves himself early then I see him still getting pretty good minutes and being a leader.
Usually with MSU classes we can look at players and kind of tell how things will end up, i.e. we knew Lucas would be the defacto leader, Allen would specialize in 3s and Summers would just be explosive (I dont think we saw the laziness coming). I also though Herzog would be a 7 ppg, 8 rpg center by his junior year though…
Either way, my point is that these are some of the most talent fueled and undefined, versatile classes Izzo’s ever had, and thats a good thing, it opens up the competition for minutes, so that say Kaminski is earning minutes in practice but he still isn’t as good as Byrd, Dawson and Harris (god willing he comes), well he’s big enough that we could throw him in at the 5 as easily as the 3. Im sooo pumped lol.
Just to clarify, Loney
I didn’t intend that line-up to be the starters, just a possible set of players Izzo could hypothetically send out if he gets his Plan A’s.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Ah
Although I think he interpreted that as a starting lineup. I agree we’d see it at some point, once again god willing lol. It’s hard to remember many plan A’s that Izzo has missed out on, so that’s why Im so confident on Harris. Plus, I think that the longer the recruitment goes on the better chance we have with him. I personally think that he’s probably waiting to see how UI does next year before agreeing to play there, which is a smart choice. I also would be SHOCKED if Purdue got him. Excepting one class, Painter is just a bad recruiter and him beating Izzo would just be a slap in the face.
According to the twitter-verse
Derrick Walton will be visiting MSU tomorrow before the UM camp this weekend. Pretty sure his own twitter is the original source.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Two, technically
But Izzo could recruit three planning for attrition. He did that with 2010 and 2012.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Harris
Josh-are you hearing something on Harris or is this just your general feeling? Not that I want you to be wrong, but, I kind of do.
Naw, no inside info
I just think the tea leaves are saying Indiana. We’ll know a lot more during the summer. If Izzo hawks Harris the way he did Branden Dawson than you know Izzo believes he has a strong chance.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Also
If James Young is a Plan B to Harris, I think he’ll end up being a very good Plan B. Is he “special” the way some people think Harris is? Maybe not, but he may have fans pretty excited as next season gets rolling. We’ll have to wait and see.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Well, well done Josh.
One thing I want to see for humor’s sake — every athlete on this list attempt to commit to Indiana at the same time. Oh, the ruckus that would cause.
Haha
It took a lot to avoid snarkily mentioning how many of these guys have Indiana interest or offers. Tom Crean likes to offer and offer early.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Izzo infrequently going after top 5 recruits
Now that is a story that y’all should look into. The general sentiment is that Izzo doesn’t like the possibility of these top players being one and dones and the resulting program instabilty that occurs. Other programs, however, have consistently signed top 10 talent and have had minimal instability. Many just recruit a new class the following year.
It would be nice to have a published story done by the lsj or freep on this topic.
Considering is mostly speculation
It would take an interview with Izzo himself on that topic to make it worthwhile. Otherwise I think you’ll basically just be reading an opinion piece you find anywhere. I don’t think he’s against one-and-dones, he’s just more concerned with finding team players who want to win for MSU and don’t already have their head in the NBA draft.
by StickyGreen on Jun 7, 2011 8:35 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
my speculative theory
Is that top 5 kids have too many “agents” around them that want promises about playing time and style of play to showcase the kid. There are exceptions like Parker who has only his parents and HS coach fielding calls. I’m sure that’s who Coach Izzo prefers to deal with, families that he can sell the university, the BTN, proximity and FF trips to.
I mean, he can’t make the same lottery pick promises that Calipari and Roy Williams can. He’s never coached the olympic team or changed his offense for a fresman like Coach K and he can’t have a Vince Howard situation where one player is bigger than the team. So there’s nothing to say to those “agents”.
Just my reckless speculation on the matter.
"the game is out there, and it's play or get played. That simple" - Omar
by spartyball on Jun 7, 2011 1:17 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Love the Vince Howard reference,
though you have to admit the kid has talent.
I think Izzo really didn’t like what happened with Z-Bo, back in ‘01 but I don’t think he shies away from the top players as much as he treats them reasonably, whereas somehow I imagine Calipari does some very shady things.
I have no data for this, just my opinion
Yes, Vince does have a cannon for an arm
I don’t think Calipari has to do anything shady.
Whether he does or not is a different story but when you can show a kid how many of your guys were picked in the lottery, won rookie of the year, etc I think that does the job for him.
There’s no way to trump that.
"the game is out there, and it's play or get played. That simple" - Omar
Awesome piece
Perfect example of why I LOVE this site. You do such a consistent job putting out quality recruiting info with nice insight to boot!
I think there will be more bigs in the mix. I’m no expert, but it seems that it would be more difficult to judge them at a younger age simply based on the qualities you’re looking for and physicality.
by StickyGreen on Jun 7, 2011 8:42 AM CDT via mobile reply actions
Thanks, Sticky
Yeah, I think you’re absolutely right about Bigs. Not only might more names come up but we’ll know things like whether Leo Edwards is a MSU offer worthy guy or not.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Dont Worry
If I recall, and not to put on any undue pressure guys, they usually update the hotlist 1 or 2 times as things progress.
Bonus Steve Haney article
Focuses on his interest in Notre Dame
http://www.irishsportsdaily.com/recruiting/notre-dame-basketball-recruiting/4880-haney-puts-trust-in-dad
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Harris
Great report.
Maybe he wants to go out of state to avoid the bs from PU and IU.
In this case, he would wait until the end to verbal
As a fan,
I hope Gary Harris announces before the early signing day. Honestly, if Harris waits until April, I wouldn’t be shocked to see Izzo move on, but who knows. I’ve heard speculation that he could announce during the late period, especially if it’s to wait on Crean finding a spot.
Still, I think we’ll know by November.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Josh
I just read on twitter that MSU is starting to recruit D’Vauntes Smith-Riveria according to Indyhshoops. Have you heard anymore about this? I wonder if that means we are losing ground with Gary or are trying to push him to commit.
I saw that too and that's a solid source quoting DSR
He’s highly regarded player on the court and (just speculating here) I think he backed out of his commitment to Xavier in part because he can go bigger.
It seems like Izzo rarely stops recruiting a position because of one guy, even Gary Harris. It wouldn’t shock me that he’s looking at other 2012 options or that over the summer he’ll consider some 2013 options as well. I’m not convinced it’s a bad sign on Harris or a power play. Izzo might just dig DSR on his merits. My guess is that nothing is going to rush Harris.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Not quite on the level of Harris
I saw the HS playoff matchup between them and DSR was a dominant scorer on that night.
He’s a bit short though, don’t know if he can score that effectively at this level.
I’d be confused if he was a backup plan to Harris and with that scorers mentality I’m not sure he can play PG.
I think that scholarship should go to Harris or move over to ‘13 if he’s not coming.
BTW, I think Dawson is trying to nudge Harris to MSU on twitter at least. It’d be a horrible mismatch though if the IU guys are doing the same.
"the game is out there, and it's play or get played. That simple" - Omar
Josh-
What does the Bade thing mean regarding Harris? Bunch of Purdue people think they’ve got him now.
It doesn’t open up a four-year spot. They’re still one scholarship over for 2013-14.
by SpartanBoiler on Jun 9, 2011 8:40 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm not familiar, rook. What's up?
I’m not going to lie – I think part of my James Young enthusiasm is fueled by Gary Harris fatigue.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Bade left the team and is now playing football.
This has led some Purdue folks to think they’ve got the scholly necessary to get Harris. Something tells me they’d find room somehow-I don’t think the scholly is going to be a big issue wherever he goes.
Right, you're precisely right
Anyone is watching scholarships as some sign of where Harris is going is already off the scent. It’s pretty clear that will not be the issue. Who really thinks an available scholarship is the thing standing between Harris and Purdue? Indiana, maybe. MAAAAAAAAAAYbe.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
Another 2013 Target?
Johnathan Williams PF out of Memphis is another guy MSU might be after. I just saw it on the rivals page. No offer yet.
Thanks for the tip!
This must be the Rivals article. It’s free:
http://stjohns.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1230483
I’ll add him to the list and give you a HT!
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
So
Is this a sign about Jabari Parker? Obviously we were already recruiting some top players (Hamilton, Young, Farmer) but this is the first one who is comparable to Jabari in his extremely high amount of national attention from power schools.
Could this be pressure on Parker, saying “Hey Jabari if you dont want to commit we’ve got someone just as good ready to take ur spot and win a championship” hoping that it convinces him we’re the school to go to? Does Izzo just want Williams all of a sudden? Who would he prefer?
Like I said in the other thread, Loney
I think all that’s premature. There’s no offer on the table, sounds like a preliminary outreach, and I don’t think it’d change Parker’s status one way or another. The Parkers are adamant on their timetable. I don’t think anything Izzo does would effect that.
"And how much are intangibles worth? 10%? 20%?" - kj@theonlycolors
MSU Contacted
It looks like Michigan State talked to Derrick Walton, EC Matthews, Tommy Hamilton and Jalen James yesterday. Jalen James is visiting on June 23 so that is something to keep an eye on. There are so many good players in this class, I wish they had a few more scholarships.
Not to recruit outside of 5 6 hours is a mistake!
For a Top Ten Team to lose recruits from all over the nation is crazy!! How can a team not recruit players like Marcus Smart is beyond me!
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