As has been discussed, the previous thread was getting kind of OUT OF CONTROL. Here is what is left in 2014 for the recruiting process as it stands now:
Buzz Williams has four commitments in this class so far.
They are:
Current Signed NLI Recruits
Jalen Hudson, Shooting Guard, 6'5", 185 LBS, St Vincent-St Marys
Ranked Nationally: 192
Ranked Position: 46
Ranked State(OH): 4
ESPN ****
247Sports ****
Rivals ***
Youtube
from Lebron James old high school, led his team to a district title and they won seven playoff games before falling in the state semifinals. He appears to have averaged 17 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds a game this season.
Justin Bibbs Shooting Guard, 6'5", 180 LBS, Montverde Academy, FL
Ranked Nationally: 118
Ranked Position: 29
Ranked State(FL): 10
ESPN ****
247Sports ****
Rivals ***
Youtube
The last two seasons Bibbs helped Montverde win the Dicks Sporting Goods High School National Tournament. Last season Bibbs helped Montverde achieve the #1 ranking in every high school poll in the US. This season it appears they will finish either #1 or #2 in the nation and are currently 29-0. Bibbs averaged 16.5 points, 4.5 assists and 5.4 rebounds a game this season. Comparisons have been made between Bibbs and James Harden of the Rockets for their style of play.
Ahmed Hill: 6'4" 185 lbs, Shooting Guard, Augusta, GA
Ranked Nationally: 62
Ranked Position: 16
Ranked State (GA): 2
247Sports
ESPN
Rivals
Background Article
YouTube
He would be the star of the class, a pure fluid shooter, that needs to improve his on ball defense to really take the next step. He scored over 3000 points in his high school career and has the potential to challenge scoring records at Virginia Tech if he follows Buzz and Chew. He will instantly draw attention though from all the top programs so we have to hope that the rapport he has with our new coaches is enough to get him in.
Satchel Paige: 6'10" 250 lbs, Center, Saltsburg, PA
Ranked Nationally: 242
Ranked Position: 23
Ranked State (PA): 7
247Sports
ESPN
Rivals
YouTube
YouTube2
I think Paige could be the one player that would benefit us the most from this class. He would go a long ways towards replacing Thompson if he actually does transfer. I think that Marquette benefited from Paige coming on late in the process with a growth spurt and increased offensive capability. Pair him up with JVZ and Barksdale and Tech could have a dominating front court.
Buzz has two open scholarships with which to work with for the remaining targets.
Those that have been identified are:
JUCO Transfers
Shane Henry: 6'8, 215 lbs, Power Forward
JUCO Stats SOPH
JUCO Stats FRESH
Success Story
Henry averaged 13.2 points and 12.5 rebounds per game this season at Georgia Perimeter Junior College. We are reported to be in Henry's final three with Arkansas being one of the others and a visit is supposed to be scheduled. I do not have a date for it at this point. For the immediate impact, Henry is more college ready in terms of body and height. He is used to going up against talent with the size and ability he has every game, so there is less transition.
Deshawn Freeman, 6'7, 225 Lbs, 3/4 Hybrid, Hutchinson CC
JUCO Stats FRESH
16.4 points and 6.1 rebounds per game
An Amar'e Stoudemire clone, Freeman built his reputation around the violent manner in which he throws down dunks and the ferocity he uses to swat shots and rebound." --ESPN.com.
Sounds like Deron Washington clone for us. He should have three years of eligibility remaining as he only was at Hutchinson this year. Would fill the 3/4 roles nicely as a solid backup this season. Cincinnati, Arizona State and Nebraska are all thought to also have offers in.
Transfer D-1 - (Required to sit out a year)
Roddy Peters 6'3, 195 Lbs, Point Guard, District Heights, MD
MARYLAND STATS
He was a 5* PG out of high school, #1 recruit in MD, #4 PG recruit and #20th overall recruit in 2013 according to 247. He is rumored to be down to Tech, Georgetown and St Josephs. I have seen no mention of an official visit yet at this point. He would have three years of eligibility left barring other issues after he sits out a season.
John Egbunu 6'10, 245 lbs, Center/PF
USF Stats
We are thought to be in Egbunu's top 2 destinations because of his relationship with Coach Roccaforte at USF. I have seen mention of him taking an official visit to Georgetown but not to use by now. My thoughts on Egbunu are that he was a highly rated four star in the class of 2013. ESPN had him as the 7th ranked center in the class. He went to South Florida and delivered exactly what you would want from a center, giving them 7.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game in only 24 minutes per game. He would have to sit out a year if he came to Tech unless his family moved for medical reasons, since he is listed as being from Georgia/Florida. That being the case, he would have three years remaining once he was eligible in 2015-2016, which would work out well by giving Pierce a year to play predominantly as JVZ's backup, then they would have a year where they would have three big men down low, and then two years where it would be Pierce and Egbunu. Could all this blow up if Williams is able to convince Thon Maker to come to Tech? Sure, but I would rather deal with that situation when it comes and have a guy of this talent and size in the fold when it comes to ACC play. We already talked about how rare it is to have a center/forward that shoots better than 50% from the field and Egbunu shot 58.9% this last season. Get him if he wants to come since too little has been heard from the other potential candidates over the last couple weeks.
Class of 2014 HS Talent
Malek Harris 6'7" 170 lbs, Small/Power Forward
Ranked Nationally: 105
Ranked Position: 23
Ranked State: 8
ESPN ***
Rivals ****
247Sports ****
YouTube
We are rumored to be one of Harris final two with Kansas State. He is expected to announce his decision on Mother's Day. The talent is there but so are the issues. He has had several disciplinary issues in high school that played major parts of two seasons. He was suspended for 11 games his Junior year and ended up being suspended his entire Senior season after additional disciplinary issues. I would be concerned with his potential to get himself into trouble at Tech as well as possibly other players if they go out together.
Richard Lee Shooting Guard, 6'2, 190 LBS, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Ranked Nationally: 172
Ranked Position: 44
Ranked State: 17
ESPN ***
Rivals ***
247Sports ***
I am seeing a couple reports that he verbally committed to UT-Martin, which seems a big step down from several of his offers. I am not sure how solid the commitment is but its also been a while since I have seen him mentioned with Tech after the offer was made. I have to think Buzz likes him for his bulk, lock down defensive skills and apparent ability to take an open shot from anywhere on the court with confidence. Blanche Ely uses a pressure defense to force their opponents to bring the ball all the way up the court contested which is similar to what Buzz is looking for.
Philip Cofer 6'8, 205 Lbs, Power Forward
Ranked Nationally: 147
Ranked Position: 36
Ranked State (GA): 7
Cofer is almost the prototypical 4 for what Buzz Williams likes to run. Tall, rangy kid with surprising defensive length. He has the ability to shoot from outside as well as with his back to the basket in the paint.
These are all the kids officially linked to Tech right now for the Class of 2014. I did not include Gant from Missou or the other Tennessee decommits because they have no direct link yet. Lets keep the discussion here strictly to the Class of 2014 for clarity and ease of use.
Comments
What's left? To win lots and lots of games!
Think this should be unwieldy...
Words cannot explain how bad I want Roddy Peters. Him and Ahmed could form the most athletic backcourt in the country in 2015-16 if he commits to Tech.
I agree Peters could really be a big add on for the future of the program dont know how strong Buzz is recruiting him though would be interested to find out though.
dear god, please let this happen. if not for basketball purposes, for the nickname "Rowdy" Roddy Peters only.
Peters has committed to South Florida since the exodus that their program saw after the head coach was fired.
this is probably one of the most disappointing moments of my adult sports life.
I dont know if we stand a shot at him but Shelton Mitchell just got a release from wake forest and is a PG from Oak Hill(VA).
247 Stats
Seems like we would have a pretty good shot unless there were other big programs contacting him before release letting him know they would offer. I thought he would have been a good fit with Danny Manning so this is surprising.
Hmmmmm, I would be surprised if WFU didn't block him from transferring in conference.
hes a class of 2014 recruit so he has just opened his recruitment up hes a top 100 recruit so not a bad one to chase since graham cut tech from his list if Buzz still wants to get a PG
My apologies. I thought you meant released so that he could transfer. I'm sure Buzz will go after him then.
My apologies for not carlifying I had just seen the tweet so I was reiterating what it said without thinking but seems like we could have a shot I dont know UNC's schollie situation but it appears that UNC recruited him hard before he went with Wake.
It is very uncommon for schools to block decommits from going to other ACC schools if they had previously been recruited by them. If he was a transfer that had been on the team last year then this would be a more common practice, but there will be no limitations to where he can go next year. VT was originally a team that offered him, and Buzz has really made it a point he is looking for a PG. Good fit, I guess we will wait and see. This young man has done it exactly the right way too (just like Ahmed Hill did). He stated that he still has Wake Forest really high on his list and could easily see himself ending back at Wake, but he wants to make sure that this is the right fit....because he committed to another coach, and just wants to make sure he is going to spend his time for the next 4 yrs where he fits and is comfortable. Good for this kid...wish him well no matter what he does.
Shane Henry has VT in his top three and is planning to visit. But, does he have a tech offer yet?
Yes he is included in the OP and was one of the first that Buzz offered.
Malek Harris is going to KSU.
Until I see that announced or retweeted by Harris the conflicting reports on KSU are being taken with a big grain of salt. He has retweeted reports that he will commit on Mothers Day
Egbunu did take his visit this weekend to Georgetown and left without signing. That's a good sign if we are his other favorite. Might just to be able to visit both places though. Hopefully if we don't get some of the other studs, Roccaforte can convince this kid to sign with us.
Looked like on Twitter he is taking his visit this week. Are you sure his visit already took place?
Not true he has yet to visit. I believe he is visiting them this weekend.
Looks like Peters could decide in the next couple weeks. His mother said that they were still mulling options.
Really hoping we can grab him hope he will give a date soon or visit and commit earlier maybe he would be a big get.
Quick question, if Peters or Egbunu come to Tech, they would essentially be in the same class as the '14 guys right? As in they would sit out while the '14 guys are freshman and then everyone would have 3years after that?
yes because both of them are transferring from D1 schools not as a JUCO they would have to sit out this upcoming season and then would have 3 years of eligibility left after they sat out a year.
Anyoen speak up if im wrong but im pretty sure thats how it works.
you're right
Thanks. That's what I figured.
5 guys in the same class would be pretty big, but with how much talent we've struggled to even get here in the past, I guess I can't complain having this problem now. I suppose you could redshirt a guy like Hudson to at least get a year difference between him and Bibbs and Hill. Idk, just a thought.
I'm sure Buzz has a plan though.
After how we struggled again this season with depth and injuries I dont think Buzz can afford to handout a redshirt at this point still not enough deep talent to do that in my eyes.
I know that 5 guys in a class could seem like a lot...but let me throw out this idea for thought (which this concept has been foreign to VT basketball forever...so it may not be something we can comprehend)...but what if one of these guys ends up leaving early for the draft? Satchel has the body of an NBA early draft pick already...if he shows some real strides, I could see him being a NBA player one day...and that day could be sooner than expected if he really progresses. I don't see him as one and done, but with his athleticism..he, Hill and Bibbs could be possible guys to consider for the big jump.
I don't think that Buzz cares what year the talent is in school now, he just knows he needs more talent, he needs it asap, and I don't think he cares what position it is or what year in school they are....the more talent the better.
I know that Malek Harris hasn't made his final decision yet....but I think that ship has sailed. Buzz has all but written him off as signing, he did NOT make his trip as planned---these signs just don't point to hope. Time to move on and hope for Henry or get a UT transfer.
I think the one thing I hope that the football coaches take note of in watching Buzz and Co recruit is that you have to go big and go hard if you want to get the best talent. Hopefully some of this mentality rubs off. I know we have seen some improvement on that front with Loefler, Searles, Moorehead, and the departed Grimes along with Little Beamer but Buzz takes it one step further. I hope to see it become a Virginia Tech attitude for every coach in every sport. Go get the best.
This. 1000 times this.
Damn. The fact that the concept of a player leaving early to go pro didn't even cross my mind is pretty telling of the state of the program over the years.
That's definitely a possibility like you mentioned with Pierce having an NBA body and just needing to develop skills. Centers are kind of like QB's in that their stock gets inflated come draft time too. Also like you mentioned it's not crazy to think that 4 star guys like Hill and Bibbs are ready to declare after their junior or even sophomore year if projected to be drafted.
4-5 guys in one class was pretty much the Greenberg model. Recruit 5 guys you can build around then pick up the pieces the next couple years then start over again.
Wood is rumored to be leaving on TSL. If that's the case, Henry and/or Harris is really critical, no?
Saw Thon maker got an offer from duke, and memphis last night looks like we are going to be in tough competition.
Thon Maker will get offers from every top program in the country. There is no doubt that if we are going to compete, we have to be ready to face down all the blue bloods to get him. He is the #1 player in the country for his class. The only reason we might have a chance is proximity and Buzz' relationship with Boo Williams AAU.
I hadnt realized he was a top player in the class but hopefully buzz can get his foot in the door and grab him there seem to be plenty of other big names on boo williams squad too. I dont know much about Buzz's past recruiting relationships but has Buzz been in good terms with Boo before he came to tech?
Kansas seems to be the early leader with Thon. Hope we can get him badly but he is likely going OOS. One and done type player.
Apparently Malik Mueller also just had surgery to remove a bone spur in his foot. This may be another reason for Buzz big push to get another PG in here.
I hadnt realized he was gonna have surgery hope he has a quick recovery we're gonna need him
By far my favorite part of Tech landing Ahmed Hill was going on the Sabre right after he got released from Marquette and some of them thinking they had a shot of getting him. Talk about delusional, some of them consider themselves locks to land Maker and they did consider themselves locks to land Graham. I look forward to Buzz breaking their hearts in recruiting and on the court in the coming years.
They are certainly a delusional bunch. They are absolutely convinced that Buzz will never get VT playing well, and they are absolutely convinced that Tony will have them in multiple Final Fours in the coming years.
Here's the thing, though.... If Syracuse and Duke don't piss all over themselves down the stretch in the last month of their respective ACC seasons, does UVa even have a season worth pinning their hats on?
As much as I hate to say it, I don't think it matters what Syracuse and Duke did. UVA's season stands on its own merits. 30-7 and 16-2 in the ACC?
It's hard to turkey leg a comment defending UVA. Had to do it with my eyes clothes and then go wash my hands afterwards.
I understand...I cut my own hands off after I typed that post about UVA. I am typing this message with my feet right now...
@KipTJam: Phil Cofer still not ruling out returning to Tenn even though he secured release from school.His 2 visits scheduled thus far are Fla St & VT
Yeah The Rev and I have had quite a few recent back and forths discussing where he thinks we are at. He is pretty high on the JUCO kid, Deshawn Freeman. He tried to get Tech to recruit him before he went JUCO.
I saw that. I was stalking your conversation of tweets. #noshame
Wait, did I just hash tag in a TKP thread? #doesnothing
We've offered freeman right? he seems like he would be a solid recruit.
Yes we have offered Freeman. If they are in the OP than there has been information put out that they hold an offer from Tech.
Seeing notes that Roddy Peters is going to visit WVU this coming weekend so obviously there are some other players for his services.
Link here. Hopefully when he visits he will realize how bad the cousins really are.
I hear they do have a great court to mockingly dance on. Pretty tempting.
Beating WVU was one of the few highlights of last season.
We should also know this afternoon one more game on our schedule for next year with the announcement of the ACC/B1G Challenge schedule at 4 PM.
With the news out of Kansas today I have to think that they move to the head of the Devonte Graham sweepstakes.
http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/10867638/naadir-th...
Didnt even know we were pursuing him. Nobody has much on him but from what I see he is a 2 star PG mostly just a local guy maybe Buzz is gonna get him to walk on? Is that even possible? Its hard to see buzz adding someone whos maybe a 2 star and spending a scholarship on him?
Verbal Commits Highlight Film
Senior Year Stats
Stat Line as a Senior: 15.3 PPG, 8.3 APG, 3 RPG, 1.7 SPG
Definitely seems to be a distributor. Makes me think Buzz is really concerned about Mueller not being ready to start the season from his surgery since this kid doesnt even have a 247Sports, ESPN or Rivals profile because he was so lowly rated.
He is supposedly from Alexandria, VA originally before going to two prep schools in Benedict Prep in NJ and then finishing at 22FT Academy.
Yeah when I tried to look him up I couldnt find anything accept what verbal had so it kind of suprised me I'm not sure how the rules work but could it be that buzz tries to get him to walk on so he doesnt use a scholarship on him or could he use a scholarship for a year then buzz take it to get someone else next year?
Don't forget...star ratings aren't always accurate, just like football. Maybe Buzz has seen him play and likes what he see's?
Look at Devin Wilson. He was unrated as a basketball player by 247. He was a 3 star football recruit however, with an offer from NC State. He was a record setting WR in HS. Yet, he chose the Hokies as an unrated player to play basketball.
Interestingly enough, he was 6'4" when he played basketball and only 6'3" when he played football, according to 247.
Buzz getting together with Coach Moorehead and Keion Carpenter today at an O&M event.
Awesome. Keion is one of my all-time favorites. I was in the Orange Bowl when he took that INT back 100 yards for a TD.
Didn't he have an amazing strip play (stripped the ball from behind just as the other player was about to score a TD) in a game back in the day? That was one of my favorite plays.....
Not that I recall. I am racking my brain trying to remember the play you describe but I'm coming up empty.
@jeffborzello: Becomes top-five guy available. RT @EvanDaniels: PG Ahmaad Rorie says he was granted a release from his Letter of Intent to California.
Was teammates with Bibbs in HS. Think this could get interesting...
hmmm itll be interesting to see if we can get involved with him.
Ahmaad Rorie, 6'1, 180 Lbs, Point Guard (from Tacoma, Washington)
Nationally Ranked: 91
Position Ranked: 19
State Ranked (FL): 6
Twitter
247Sports
ESPN
Rivals
YouTube
Video shows he has the mid range jumper and the step back ability that Devin hasn't developed yet. Has the ability to drive to the rim and has range from outside. Defense seems a little suspect as if he hasn't been pushed hard to develop it better. I think that his signing with Cal was an indication that he wanted to be on the Left Coast, maybe to be close enough for family to come watch on a semi regular basis.
+1 on the usage of Left Coast.
If we could get 2 Montverde kids to Tech that may make Ben Simmons rethink his verbal to LSU
That's good news. Didn't want him going to the dark side.
I saw somewhere behind a paywall that Malek Harris had trimmed his list and we were out. Not too surprising with the supposed silent commit to KSU.
Not surprised to hear this, never seemed like Buzz made a big push to get him once he came here. Not sure which of the coaches did his initial recruiting. If it was Autry, then that may have had something to do with it. With the problems he had in high school, this could turn out to be a positive thing for our program.
I tend to agree. You are doing God's work by the way Rob. Thanks!
Welcome to TKP!
@TheRecruitScoop: 2014 Ransom Everglades (FL) PF Trey Mourning - son of Allonzo Mourning - has committed to Georgetown, a source says.
Boom. Hope this helps with some of the targets we are up against with Gtown. Mostly Egbunu.
That is really solid news. Could have a big impact on Egbunu and/or Peters depending on how many open spots they have.
Devonte Graham signs with Kansas
ESPN: Devonte Graham commits to Kansas
I thought that might be what would happen when that other guard announced he was transferring. That opens the door for Graham to fight for playing time immediately next year.
I wonder if Frank Mason whom we recruited might not enjoy his expected loss of minutes.
I'm sure Frank Mason would much rather compete for minutes with an incoming freshman than with Naadir Tharpe, who would have been the returning starting point guard and a senior.
Update on Brandon Chauca
For a 2 star PG he sure is getting alot of attention must be something about him attracting all the attention
this kid would be so fun to root for...shorter than everyone but also quicker than everyone
DANG! Sweet stroke, ultra quick.
He reminds me of Isaiah Thomas who played at Washington a few years back. Short lefty with speed and a smooth stroke.
Not really "new" info but I'll post it anyway.
http://hssouthcarolina.scout.com/2/1400895.html
Any updates on how Ebungu's visit to geaorgetown went this weekend? I havent seen anything bout if he committed on twitter.
he hasn't committed but he also visited MSU. Zona and FL also showing interest. those are 4 really big programs so not sure where that leaves us
https://twitter.com/JamieShaw5
From: https://twitter.com/Ben_Fred
Have to say it again - it is very nice seeing that we're competing for prospects with other major conference programs, not the low/mid-majors. Buzz & Co, aren't taking it easy, for sure!
Well, CJ Thurman, former Tennessee Power Forward commit is off the board with a surprising commit to Florida Atlantic University today. Seems kind of odd unless he wanted to be close enough to home for family to come watch since he is from Georgia. It may have been that the FAU coach is a legend from where Thurman grew up and probably was able to talk about home like it was one in the same since it basically was. Not sure.
This recent film from Shane Henry makes me want him all the more.
Watch the lane move he makes at the 28 second mark if you watch nothing else. Hits shots from three all the way into the dunk in just this one tournaments highlight clips. Great ball control and ability to elevate his shot above the defender.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLa9rkrRtGQ#t=35
Not sure how to embed tweets. However, according to Mark Berman, Marshall Wood has left the basketball team. This means we have another scholarship to work with for this recruiting class or next.
I wish Marshall the best where ever he ends up. Always liked his flat top.
This makes landing a big wing like Henry or another post like Egbunu all the more important/likely
we're now down to 10 scholarship players - including 4 incoming freshmen and Mueller who didn't play last year. this is a thin team right now - one with little experience. I trust Buzz to get his guys but I'm starting to get a little worried about depth next year
Depth has been thin for several years now. Don't be surprised if at least one more player drops before January. Buzz's boot camps will make or break them. All that being said, I'm not at all 'worried' about how next season goes, because next season is about laying the blocks, building the foundation of a REAL basketball program. Not just one that is in the ACC, but one that belongs in the ACC. We could have 8 walkons playing next season and I'd be cool with that, because Buzz is the coach we need right now.
man do we need help inside now. we've got barksdale, joey, and then pierce coming in. that's it. unless you count beyer
Kid 'no play. Sunshine and rain.
A degree from VT is no joke. Best of luck Marshall!
In case anyone was curious.
This is not true. The actual penalty usually is loss of a year of eligibility, so in the case of Peters, he would have had two years remaining after sitting out one season but this doesn't apply because of the change in conference. NCAA rules prevail here because all of these athletes met their NLI one year requirement and received a mutual release, so unless Maryland puts a school on a list preventing transfer to said school its only a one year sit out. Below is the ACC policy pertaining to intraconference transfer.
@KipTJam: Looks like Philip Cofer focusing on Fla St and Ga Tech according to his coach
Dang, I really wanted Cofer. Shane Henry just became and even more important target.
that report is false. cofer and his dad both clarified today after that report came out that FSU, VT, and UT are finalists and that he will visit all three. http://www.govolsxtra.com/news/2014/may/07/former-signee-philip-cofer-sa...
That report is not false. His coach simply did not mention VT at all.
He and his dad may have said VT is in his top 3 but the fact that his own coach failed to even mention VT is a red flag IMO. We will see if he visits. If that happens then there is a chance. I don't believe there is one unless that happens.
I hope I am wrong. I also hate typing on this phone. Work blocks EVERYTHING.
They were two separate people making two separate statements. The coaches statement was made much earlier than the latest statement from Cofer and his father so at this point I am going to go with his plan is to visit FSU and VT as I doubt he needs to do another visit to Tenn in making his decision. I will say that I expect FSU has a huge advantage in that it is only about a three hour drive from his house (south of Atlanta) to Tallahassee, which would allow his family to watch him play quite often if they wanted to. You have to hope that Buzz and Coach Chew can show him how successful they have been in putting guys of his caliber in the league and how he could have an instant impact on this team.
He would have to sit behind Jarquez Smith and Montay Brandon at FSU. Brandon though is more of a hybrid so if Hamilton is looking for a conventional four, Cofer would be the top backup to Smith at this point. FSU does have two Centers though that both probably need significant minutes. Both are over 7 feet, with Michael Ojo from Nigeria and Boris Bojanovsky from Slovakia expected to get 30 minutes a game, it will likely bump a four's time down some. The news about Marshall Wood stepping away from basketball will make it easier for our coaches to sell Cofer on playing time.
I hope you're right. I do agree that VT is not his favorite at this point. Let's see that OV scheduled!
Cofer has committed to Florida State
Now the smoke is clearing and I'm seeing why Buzz is offering so many 2015 recruits as he knew he would have a few more scholarships open than just one.
@jeffborzello: South Florida transfer John Egbunu is adding Virginia Tech to his list, plans to visit Blacksburg soon. Zona, UF, Mich St, Gtown in mix.
Hope coach Roc can persuade him.
great news!
Competing with the big boys. each one of those teams has a National Championship
Would there be any interest in Andrew White? Former KU player just said he was transferring today, from VA I believe.
think it depends on whether Roddy Peters chooses to transfer to VT. if he does we really don't need 2 PGs that have to sit out a year before they can play
White is a small forward, at 6'6 195 lbs. I could see Buzz taking a look at the kid as he was Top 50 in his class as a highly rated four star. There is of course the potential that he could file for a hardship waiver if he has any kind of thing going on with family since he is from Chester, VA which is between Richmond and Petersburg. I could see us having to compete with LOLUVA, Wake Forest, and VCU for this kid. I am pretty sure that Danny Manning was his primary recruiter that got him to go to Kansas, so being that he is now head coach at Wake Forest, that could be a more logical landing spot for him.
woops. thanks for the correction!
Also appears that we are taking a look at Seth Allen, who is also leaving Maryland.
Jeff Goodman @GoodmanESPN
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Maryland transfer Seth Allen told ESPN that Virginia, Virginia Tech and N.C. State are among those who have expressed interest thus far.
Would love for us to land him.
Any idea if hes a PG or just a overall G? If hes more of a SG then Buzz might not work to hard but gotta think he might be a good grab to help the PG need.
He was Maryland's starting PG last season. Averaged 13.4 PPG and 3 APG.
Taft Coghill Jr. @tcoghilljr 16m
A source close to Seth Allen says Virginia, Virginia Tech and N.C. State are his top three choices and he will visit two this weekend.
Not sure which two he is visiting this weekend so students keep an eye out for a visit.
LOLUVA is claiming this...
@insidemdsports: Per @JamieOakes247, Maryland transfer Seth Allen visited Virginia yesterday. http://virginia.247sports.com/Board/16/Contents/UVa-Hoop-SCOOP-28550161#... (VIP)
This makes me think VT will be this weekend as well. Just factoring in distance...
Distances aren't that different between them. About one extra hour of driving would take them to NC State versus Tech. All depends on where the kids point of view is at.
He is in Blacksburg ATM.
Hopefully Buzz can stop him on his way to NC state if hes going there after LOLUVA and make a good impression on him.
Is Seth Allen expected to get a hardship waiver and be eligible this coming season? Do any of the other transfer prospects Buzzyfresh is targeting have a chance at playing next season?
i've heard Allen might but otherwise only the 2 JUCO transfers would be able to play starting immediately who are Henry and Freeman.
Any ideas which way Malek Harris is leaning since he's supposed to make his decision on Sunday if im not mistaken?
popular opinion is K-State. i'm not even sure he ever made it here to visit. there were a lot of rumors but no confirmation
I think Harris is out of the picture. More than likely he will land at KSU.
Well its a shame that we probably wont get him so hopefully as been said many times so far is that Henry becomes a bigger need.
WVU also is losing a second guard to transfer as of today.
Terry Henderson, rising junior, 11.7 PPG, more a 2 Guard is leaving the Moutaineers. No reason or list of potential destinations have been announced.
Seth Allen is currently on an official visit in Blacksburg per @TheRecruitScoop on twitter huge news!!!
Heck yeah!
Some very great news regarding Egbunu...
@JonRothstein: USF's John Egbunu will not visit Arizona this wknd as expected, source told @CBSSports. Visits Va Tech next wknd. MSU,Florida, Gtown in mix.
Phil Cofer has committed to Florida State per @TheRecruitScoop on twitter.
It surely is a great day to be a HOKIEEEEE!!!!
Any idea if he could be eligible to play this upcoming season?
Been fun, Terps, enjoy the B1G!
For those who need an uplift after Cofer news...
@EvanDaniels: Seth Allen will transfer to Virginia Tech, per a source. Quality pick up for Buzz Williams.
BOOM!
Seems like Egbunu is also coming in this week for a visit as well...
@JonRothstein: USF transfer John Egbunu wraps up his visits Tuesday at Virginia Tech. Has already been to Florida, Georgetown, and Michigan State.
Let's see what Buzz and Roc can do!
I am not sure I am a fan of taking two transfers in for this year that have to sit a season. We are already limited at what we are able to do talent wise and to have two scholarships sitting out means we roll into next season at 10 maybe 11 depending how many more commits Buzz takes this year. We really need to get one of the two JUCO kids at this point to bolster the play down low for next season. If Allen is eligible for a waiver than that changes the game but it doesnt seem likely considering he is from Woodbridge so UMD is actually closer to home. ESPN is saying he will sit out a season at this point.
I'm okay with it if the transfers are Egbunu and of course Allen. The 2015-16 team has a chance to be really good if Egbunu commits. I think we land Henry too honestly.
Definitely agree about needing to get players that can contribute immediately but I also think it wouldnt hurt to have 2 that have to sit out as they could help fill holes if anyone transfers out at the end of next season for any reason you wouldnt have to find yourself scrambling last second for a big recruit instead youd have allen or egubunu to step up and provide experienced talent. But again I think landing henry is a big need at the moment to help give us another big body.
I think that with the work that Buzz is doing recruiting wise for the 2015 class, he wouldn't have any issues filling needs even if kids asked to transfer late in the process. I also think that he will weed out the players leaving early rather than late with his high expectations for his players. Any player leaving will probably be replaced with a higher talented player coming in.
My concern with taking multiple transfers is the effect on the available scholarships for the huge 2016 class. I was hoping Buzz would have at least five scholarships to put out in that class because of the apparent level of talent different that year seems to have over the others right now. I also know Buzz plays a high tempo three quarter court defensive scheme that really requires being able to sub pretty frequently. I dont want to see players hit full burnout in the middle of the ACC slate.
Seems we will need to add Texas Tech to the potential destinations for Shane Henry based on a few posts I have seen recently. He stated he will not make his decision until he visits all the schools on his list. No news though on when he plans to conduct those visits.
Arkansas has been eliminated as well.
Oh and not that its a big shock or anything but Malek Harris did announce Kansas State as his destination yesterday over Tech and Gonzaga.
I don't know if you guys have seen it yet but Ahmed Hill was invited to the "Ballislife" All American Weekend. There are some highlights on Youtube which I attached below. He has the highlight reel from 0:52-1:12. He is quickly becoming my favorite player and he isn't even on the roster yet!
Thanks for sharing! He seems to have the "it" factor, man what a beast and I can't wait to see him in a Hokie uniform!
Wow.
@TheRecruitScoop: 2015 New York Lightning (NY) center Jessie Govan has committed to Georgetown.
@EvanDaniels: Georgetown picked up two top 50 bigs in five days. Dickerson on Friday. Govan today. Most schools would be happy with one.
This can only help with Egbunu as Georgetown was the team to beat IMO.
Hopefully our coaches take note of this and bring it up today while he is visiting.
Any word on how the Egbunu visit went today? Just curious how we stand, especially with the news of additional bigs going to Georgetown. Didnt see any tweets of him on campus, which I thought would have happened.
Wondering the same. Buzz has had good luck taking them to breakfast at West End and getting the commitment. Maybe tomorrow morning?
Weird that no word has come out. A couple people have recalled seeing Allen, Hill, and Pierce in west end during their OVs but they didn't see Egbunu there today.
keep in mind campus is starting to empty out and the people that are still here are wrapping up finals
Agreed. Egbunu also had us as his last visit which shows he wanted to check out all of his options and decide later. I hope to hear a report, but I won't be devastated if he doesn't pull the trigger tomorrow for VT.
It does feel good to have VT be the last taste in his mouth so to speak. Let's hope coach Rocc and Buzz did some magic!
@coreyevans_10: 2014 South Florida transfer Johm Egbunu wraps up his visit today to Virginia Tech
So we at least know his visit is still going on.
@sethadams_: @coreyevans_10 hearing anything on a decision?
@coreyevans_10: @sethadams_ I have not probably won't make one til after returning
Will he commit to VT at the end of the day? That would be great.
Havent seen it confirmed from a reliable source yet but am seeing information the Egbunu has decided to commit to Michigan State University.
Some random guy on twitter said that.
Yea I saw something on Twitter too but it was some bitter USF student. I live in Tampa. Plenty of bitter fans since their best player left.
More like their best five or six players after the coach was fired down there.
Well USF gave us Seth Greenberg, so shouldn't we be the ones that are bitter?
Welp, these are more reliable sources and not in our favor. Losing a recruit/player to Florida again is a kick in the teeth.
As Joe would say....BUTTS
Welp. Good luck to him.
Make it Stop!
I hate the F-ing Gators!
Do we have any possibilities left for next season? Or do you see us standing pat with what we have?
Shane Henry, I believe.
We need another post guy desperately. It's worth even taking a flyer on an international.
Or is Buzz just thinking long play at this point. To reach at this point and waste a spot down the road may not be in the teams best interest.
We lost Kirby and Thompson, right? And Wood? That just leaves us with JVZ down low?
JVZ, Satchel Pierce (6-10, 250) and CJ Barksdale are the lone 4-5 guys. That's 3 guys to fill 80 minute/ game of PT. They better be in shape and be able to play w/o foul trouble. Though it could be real interesting to watch Buzz go 4 guys 6-4 to 6-5 with one big.
That'd be an interesting, and at this point likely lineup. Everybody on the floor but the big man will be at that 6'4"-6"5" height.
You won't have to worry about them being in shape, Buzz and staff are already whipping them into shape right now. Still it would be nice to get one of the JUCO kids in for the depth.
HokieJoe- When is Buzz Boot Camp?
I know they are already getting worked out, but right now they get a break for about a week or so (Mueller was headed back to Germany yesterday). So I'd imagine once they get back for summer session I it will commence. They are going to be here for both sessions so looks like it is going to be a long summer for the boys.
Shane Henry or Deshawn Freeman are the two JUCO prospects that have yet to commit that we have offers out to. Henry is supposed to visit but I haven't seen a confirmed date. Freeman I haven't seen any confirmation on a visit. Henry is a 4 and Freeman a 3/4 Hybrid type.
Any updates with Freeman now that Barksdale is out?
I have seen nothing from his camp at this point. Been keeping an eye on him in the news ever since Emelogu announced he was leaving. He was only a freshmen this year at JUCO so he may have decided not to come out until next season.
Well Shane Henry will be going to Tech next year....
he narrowed his list to Virginia Tech, Texas Tech and Louisiana Tech.
All they do at Texas Tech is pass so I don't see him going there. TIC
Tubby Smith is the head coach at Texas Tech though so its not his first rodeo recruiting.
I had no idea Tubby was at TT.
He just went this offseason, IIRC. I guess this is sort of like a reboot of the Bobby Knight reclamation era. Tubby goes there to bide his time and pad his resume until he can retire.
Last I saw he was listed at 6-8 180- that's Carlos Dixon range... sounds more like a 3 than a 4
The Battle of the Tech. Hopefully he picks the right Tech.
I like our odds against those schools. Not a big time program to compete against and VT is clearly in the best conference. Add in the potential for immediate playing time and I really like our chances.
@JucoRecruiting: Shane Henry (6'8/F/2014) of Georgia Perimeter is currently on an official visit at Texas Tech. Will take an official to Virginia Tech June 6
I don't see what's appealing to La Tech. My guess is its a 2 horse race. They are both on treadmills so it's hard to say who is out front right now.
Hopefully he leaves TTU without signing.
The appealing part of Louisiana Tech is the head coach. Mike White is one of the better young coaches in college basketball right now. La Tech went 29-8 this year, including a 13-3 record in Conference USA. They won the regular season CUSA title but lost to Tulsa in the Conference Championship game so they were on the outside looking in to the NCAA tournament. In the NIT, they gave Florida State all they could handle before losing by three. White also led LA Tech to the WAC Conference title in 2012-2013 prior to their move to CUSA. White comes from an athletic management pedigree as his dad is the Athletic Director at Duke right now. The guy does well in recruiting with two Top 100 classes in three seasons. Those don't include three top 50 JUCO recruits during that time as well.
Thanks Rob for pwning me. Sounds like La Tech would be appealing. But here's to hoping he wants to play in the premier conference.
I'd say Michael White has the best potential of any young coach in the nation. He is on the fast track to being tomorrow's Gregg Marshall in terms of reputation. FTR, I don't consider Buzz a 'young coach', although he is young. My thought is of guys in their 30's. As for White, his teams also play a very high tempo game with full court pressure defense. Very aggressive style of play. I'd bet that in short order he will end up at a very high profile program. Probably not his next stop, though that will be a high major team, but the stop after that, he'll be at an elite program somewhere.
Glad to finally see an actual visit date. Wonder why so long though?
Are there any other PF options for us? Maybe a Euro player we have not heard of? I'm assuming if we don't get Henry then Buzz's priority for next years recruiting will be for a PF. We could definitely offer some serious PT so maybe we land a stud.
As of right now the only other option that I know of is Deshawn Freeman, but as Rob already stated he is more of a hybrid 3-4. Henry would be huge since he is a true 4. Buzz may go international if options run out.
One option out there is Obie Oleka if he can qualify. He was released from his LOI at Texas. Not sure what the issues were that ended his recruitment with Texas, as it sounds there were problems which is why he was let go. He is a DC kid. Played AAU ball for DC Assault
6'8, 220 Lbs, Averaged 10.9 PPG, 6.2 RPG as a freshmen this last year.
http://www.scfmanatees.com/sports/mbkb/2012-13/bios/obinnaoleka
I have not seen any mention of us in on recruiting him but if Henry falls through he might be someone Buzz looks at.
Here are his highlights from the past year.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMq5T7DqU6c
38.0% from the 3-point line as 6'9" guy is pretty impressive...10 points a game and 5 rebounds as well.
It will help stretch the floor for sure.
Reduced the list to Wake Forest, Miami, Drexel and Virginia Tech
http://www.fayobserver.com/blogs/sports/acc_basketball/article_7bc16828-...
Leonard is a 6'9" senior forward who has already gotten his degree, so he will be eligible immediately.
Did he not play his freshman season? I only see stats for his Sophomore and Junior seasons.
He was at Kent State his freshmen year.
EDIT:
He averaged 6.2 MPG, 1.9 PPG, 1.5 RPG as a freshmen at Kent State.
Newcomer to site,guys. I have enjoyed reading for last few months and appreciate the hard work of everyone here. Looking forward to new season coming and Buzz has me stoked!
Darius Leonard
I had to look up what was going on with his ear. Found this from Chris Lang of New Advance:
The over exaggerated "hold my earrings" fights between women on Jerry Springer make so much more sense now.
Darius Leonard has decided to attend WF according to several sources. I would prefer Shane Henry over Leonard but am not too optimistic.
I didn't want him anyway, i watched him play last year against Radford and didn't think he was that good.
Yeah...I didn't need to be looking at that ear either....
I think he has already had the ear corrected. Regardless, we will get to see when we play against him now.
Downvote because I don't want to look at his ear? Such a wuss downvote...weak.
Charles Mitchell just got his release from Maryland
That makes 6 players who have left the program via transfer since the end of the season
Josh Fortune has announced he is transferring from Providence College after two years. He would likely have to sit out a season unless there is a medical hardship that brings him back to a school in Virginia since he is from Hampton. 6'5 Combo Guard. Guess we will see how it plays out.
http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/61805/josh-fortune
http://www.providencejournal.com/sports/content/20140523-pcs-josh-fortun...
Looks like Buzz and co. are going after one of last year's leading scores...
@GoodmanESPN: Niagara transfer @antoine_mason has his release, has been bombarded by schools. Cincy, Okl St, Seton Hall, St. John's, Prov, Auburn (cont'd)
@GoodmanESPN: .@Antoine_Mason also heard from Wake, Maryland, Mizzou, Texas A&M, Memphis, LSU, Tenn, Oregon, Va Tech, BC, UCLA, Nevada, Fordham.
Go big or go to UVA...
Go Tech or go home
Any Shane Henry sightings? :-)
he was supposedly on campus and scrimmaged with the team
Any updates on Shane Henry's visit this past weekend?
I haven't seen anything on Twitter or from Jucorecruiting so it seems he is playing it close to the vest.
Great news!!
So this is it for next year right? Anything comprehensive one what the team will look like next season?
Yes, this is for next year and the year after as he has two years of eligibility remaining.
Starting Five (Backup)(Walk On Playing Time)
One note, I think that Will Johnston, while possibly not on scholarship will play a much more pronounced role than Beyer and Donlon in terms of Walk Ons.
Point Guard: Malik Mueller (Devin Wilson)
Shooting Guard/Small Forward: Adam Smith/Ben Emelogu (Will Johnston/Ahmed Hill/Justin Bibbs)(Christian Beyer)
Post Playing Forward/Center: Shane Henry/JVZ (C.J. Barksdale, Satchel Paige)(Greg Donlon)
Potential Redshirt: Jalen Hudson (All depends on how Buzz views the roster and whether he wants to break up the wing player eligibility window with Hill and Bibbs) especially now with Seth Allen also in the guard mix after this season.
Sitting Out Transfer: Seth Allen, Zach Leday
This is how I see the season starting out, with Hill and possibly Bibbs earning additional playing time/starts as the season progresses.
Mueller starts over Wilson? Wilson had decent year for a freshman and Mueller is coming off of an injury.
At this point, there is not one position on the roster that is NOT up for grabs. Mueller is a guy that Buzz recruited to both Marquette and VT and got him to come here. Wilson was part of a team that finished dead last in ACC play with only 2 wins in conference play. Not saying by any standard that it was Wilson's fault, but do not be surprised if we see most of the new guys getting starter minutes this upcoming season. Its not like Buzz inherited a strong team that didn't need to be shaken up....
Mueller was never recruited by Buzz, he was recruited by Kanaskie and was on the team last year. While he probably would have started for JJ over Wilson last year, I don't necessarily think that is the case this year. I'd say whoever is the starter could be subject to each game depending on who did well in practice. With the progress Wilson made last year, I'd say they are about neck and neck.
Oh fudge. My mind is not having a good day. I got him and Malik Harris mixed up.
Your mind needs a rest as Malik Harris has now gone to Kansas State. Long day today though and I thoroughly understand. I went to a meeting today that had absolutely nothing to do with me where only one person I knew was in the meeting, not having the light bulb come on until the organizer for the meeting I was supposed to be at stopped by my desk to apologize for cancelling his meeting last minute and he hoped it didn't inconvenience me in any way.
lol shhhhhhh... I don't need to feel even more dumb.
Yeah, I have a ton of vacation time coming up over the next few weeks and I'm trying hard right now to not mentally check out from work... but apparently its more difficult than I thought.
Its my opinion from all the different sources I get little pieces of information from that Mueller would have started last year if he hadn't been ruled ineligible and from what I have gathered he still brings more of what Buzz is looking for to the court than Devin does necessarily. I don't envision this as a 30-10 mpg split between them. They could be close to even amount of time on the floor especially early on with the defensive intensity that Buzz requires. Expect the playing time to be more like a hockey game than your normal basketball game, where everyone sees a shift so they can go full throttle for a shorter period, take a break while the next group goes all out. Buzz is well known for making full five men switches in his time at Marquette, so I would not be surprised at all to see something similar happen here at Tech.
It's been a long time since I have been this fired up about basketball program. Can't wait!
GREENSBORO, N.C. Wooden Award finalists Jabari Parker of Duke and Tyler Ennis of Syracuse are unanimous choices and headline the five-member 2013-14 All-ACC Freshman Team announced Monday by the Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association (ACSMA).
The pair is joined by Virginia guard London Perrantes, North Carolina forward Kennedy Meeks and Virginia Tech guard Devin Wilson.
Virginia Techs Wilson ranks third in the conference with 4.8 assists per game. The McKees Rocks, Pa., native ranks fourth on his team in scoring, averaging 9.2 points, and is the only Hokie to start all 30 games this season.
Sorry, I think this is Devin Wilson's job to lose. Mueller is injured and hasn't played in the ACC. He will have to outplay Wilson big time to win this job initially.
We can just agree to disagree. I am drawing from information from people watching practices and scrimmages last season that said Mueller was obviously a step above Devin and my understanding is that Mueller is already fully healed from his surgery and has been back in the gym for the last couple of weeks.
Devin had a great freshmen season considering the role he was expected to play and how things turned out but looking at the way Buzz runs his offense and some of the things Mueller brings to the court I think he is likely to get the starting nod. A controlled tempo on offense to start the game is usually something Buzz is big on and I think Mueller creates open opportunities slightly better than Devin does to allow the team to get into an early offensive rhythm. I also did say to expect that they will likely spend about an equal amount of time on the floor in most games because of how Buzz substitutes and how he usually uses the PG position specifically.
Could we possibly see Devin at the 2? His ability to penetrate and draw fouls was probably one of the lone bright spots on offense, but I don't recall him shooting a lot although when he did it wasn't really pretty.
With Hill, Bibbs, Emelogu, and Adam Smith (assuming he can't play point...which he can't). There is not very much room to move someone from another position to the 2 regardless.
I agree. It gets even more of an issue if Hudson doesn't redshirt. It really shouldn't be an issue though as Devin will likely still see 20 mpg roughly at the PG position.
Lets let Wilson and Mueller settle our dispute on the court....Sound good?