Talk with Illinois men's basketball beat writer Paul Klee
Paul Klee (moderator) — 12:31 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Good afternoon everyone. Thanks for coming by for another Illinois basketball chat. I'll be here for about an hour. Fire away.
Klee
Eric from Chicago, IL — 12:32 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Klee,
Do the Mikes look any stronger this year? How big of a problem do you anticipate that rebounding will be?
Thanks for the chat.
Paul Klee (moderator) — 12:33 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Eric- Mike and Mike don
Tracy from Honolulu, HI — 12:36 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Who is the best dancer on the basketball team? In other words, who would be the best candidate to perform in "So you think you can dance" show?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 12:37 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Tracy- Good question. Let me turn this around just a bit. I asked Mike Davis which teammate should appear on
Kenny from Saint Joseph, Illinois — 12:38 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
What are your thoughts of the Orange and Blue scrimmage? I know it's just a scrimmage, but what is your take on this year's team? I was really impressed with Alex Legion and the Freshmen.
Paul Klee (moderator) — 12:41 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Kenny- My thoughts were in the N-G and on HQ the day after the scrimmage. The most noticeable change is the backcourt. Last season you had a backcourt that was strong on the defensive end. This season you have a backcourt that is stronger on the offensive end. The frontcourt is pretty much the same unit you saw last season.
Klee
Al from Carbondale, IL — 12:42 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Would you say Griffey and Cole are competing for the same minutes and if so, who is ahead in that battle?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 12:47 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Al- Not really. Billy Cole is more of a 3. Tyler is more of a 4 and - yes - a 5. At least on this team. When I asked Wayne McClain about Tyler Griffey, he said the freshman could give them minutes as Tisdale's backup as well. Bruce Weber said the same thing.
"I'm not sure he's a center, but in this day and age how many centers do you really have," Weber said.
I think that's a sign they'd like to find a way to have Tyler on the court if continues to improve and provide solid minutes.
Klee
Wilson from Cisne, IL — 12:47 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
I was at a practice last week, and I thought Bubba Chisholm held his own very nicely and he was tougher and more athletic than I had envisioned. He is obviously well-liked and respected by his teammates. Am I way off in saying that he could play some MINOR minutes and the level of play would not fall completely off the map?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 12:51 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Wilson- Don't look for minutes for Bubba except in the last few minutes when the result is decided. He does a great job in practice, works his tail off and he enjoys the experience. He's also looking for a job in the financial world, if anyone has an opening. Somewhere on his resume, I'm hoping Bubba includes the fact he once was a News-Gazette Delivery Person of the Month. He won a Nintendo 64 and a trip to Disney World, or something like that.
Klee
James from Miami, Florida — 12:52 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
What's the latest on Mike Davis' ballhandling? In my opinion, this was clearly one of the biggest deficiencies in his game last season. If his handles improved to the point where it would even be considered average, this added dimension would make his catch-and-shoot game even more devastating.
Paul Klee (moderator) — 12:54 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
James- Improving his ballhandling was Mike Davis' No. 1B priority this offseason. (No. 1A was recovering from a broken ankle.) He and Bill Cole worked with the guards and wings on Monday. He knows that's his ticket to a basketball paycheck. Klee
Dean Hinton from Champaign, Illinois — 12:55 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Paul - Can you tell me what date Jerreance Howard was hired as Assistant Coach for the Illini and was he the primary recruiter for any of the 2010 class that will sign in November?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 12:59 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Dean- Jerrance was introduced as Tracy Webster's replacement on Sept. 19, 2007. I remember getting the text message that read, "(Howard is) Going to meet with Ron G" at about 9:15 a.m. that day. He was critical in keeping 2010 star Jereme Richmond in the fold. And it would have been much, much tougher to land Crandall Head without Jerrance Howard.
Klee
Kyle from Champaign, IL — 01:00 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Paul,
What do you expect to see at the exhibition game on Friday? Who will we hear announced in the starting lineup?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:03 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Kyle- Bruce Weber said he'd like to experiment with more fullcourt pressure and a zone. I think you'll see the former, but I'm hesitant to commit to the latter. The starting lineup probably will be McCamey, Richardson, Legion, Davis and Tisdale. That is, unless there's some sort of minor punishment for Legion's suspended-license incident in the spring. It was minor, so I don't think you will.
Klee
mike from joliet, il — 01:03 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
I have read that simpson is a good rebounder , good shot blocker
and good on defence any chance he will get some of tisdales minuets who is a good shooter but dos'nt rebound or guard?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:04 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Mike- No. I don't see it happening. Stan the Man still has a long way to go - on and off the court - before he's taking minutes from Mike Tisdale, an All-Big Ten honorable selection last season. Klee
Derek from St. Louis, MO — 01:05 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
How much playing time can we expect to see from the freshman?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:06 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Derek- DJ Richardson, Brandon Paul and Tyler Griffey are among the top seven players right now. So if the season started today they would see considerable minutes, especially the two guards. But Bruce Weber said the other day "it could take until Christmas" before they have a firm rotation. "I hope that doesn't happen," he said. The rotation, I suspect, will be a continuous work in progress.
Klee
Jack from Clinton, Illinois — 01:07 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Paul,What have you heard about Crandall Head and do you think he will play this year? If so,who for? How do you think Joseph Bertrand is doing? Do you see him getting a lot of playing time this season? Can he be a back-up at point guard on this team? I had heard he had some natural skills at the point? And of course, the latest on recruits? By the way, are you invited to attend practice?Thanks
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:12 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Jack- Crandall Head told me last week he's "not going to push it" as he rehabs from knee surgery. It was a serious injury. I don't think he will play for Rich South this season. But you can't really predict how quickly a guy will recover. He wants to be healthy for when he arrives on the UI campus in June.
Joseph Bertrand said the other day he's about "80 percent" after a minor knee surgery Sept. 11. He's not all the way back, but he's close. He doesn't figure into the PG rotation at this point. More of a 3-man. Love his passing vision, though. Yes, I attend almost all of the practices at Ubben.
Klee
AK from Crystal Lake, IL — 01:12 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Paul,
With the way the Illini finished the 08-09 season, they must first prove their worth before I will put them in top 25. Having said that, they are talented and I would not mind having them in top 40. Do you agree?
Also, congratulations to coach McClain. He deserves it and it proves that loyalty still matters.
Go Illini!!
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:14 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
AK- We'll publish our first AP Top 25 ballot on Friday on HQ. I have Illinois in the Top 25. It was close. I think they're a borderline Top 25 at this point. But I've seen enough in fall workouts and through 11 practices to think they are worthy of a national ranking. There is a cluster of teams from Nos. 15-35 that could make a case, though.
Klee
Peter from Champaign, IL — 01:18 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
In sports, numbers don't lie (although they occasionally tell a little fib). So, looking forward to what can be expected of Alex Legion and Dominique Keller, I'm wondering what their stats were when they played in China this summer? I'd also like to know their playing time, so we can guestimate their productivity based on how many minutes they log per game this season. Finally, what do YOU think we can reasonable expect from them this season?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:23 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Peter- Send me an email and I'll get you those stats from China. Having computer issues and can't open the file. Both players had solid offseasons. Alex Legion's confidence is higher than it's been since he arrived at Illinois from Kentucky. But it's going to be a wait-and-see thing with Legion, until he does it in a game. Dominique Keller is the first or second big man off the bench. He's been hitting shots in practice, but his priority is rebounding. If it matters, he had the most "wins" in offseason sprints among the big men. So he's in fine physical condition. Those are role guys. They don't have to be stars for Illinois to be successful.
Klee
Wizard of Oz from Milwaukee, Wisconsin — 01:23 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
What will Jeff Jordan's role be on this year's team?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:24 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Wizard- I expect it will be limited, particularly early in the season. He's behind the other guards at this point.
Klee
Justin from St. Joseph, IL — 01:25 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Can fans buy tickets to the exhibition games at the hall before the game?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:26 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Justin- Yes, there are plenty of tickets available and they will be available at the door. They are $22 apiece. Klee
Jake from Shelbyville, Il — 01:28 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Paul,
Don't you think it might be a wise move on your part to be less optomistic about the upcoming b-ball season after what your football counterparts predicted and what has actually happened? You might save yourself a lot of grief down the road.
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:33 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Jake- I'm objective in my coverage. When I'm criticized, it's usually for being too critical of Illinois and not homer-y enough.
I have six Big Ten teams on my preseason AP Top 25 ballot. Illinois is the fifth. I've written since the spring that Demetri McCamey is a changed man and was the brightest development this offseason. He's the key. The freshmen are gifted, but each has a hole in his game. I do think D.J. Richardson could play for all but maybe two teams in the country as a freshman. He's ready for the big time. But fans are expecting too much from the freshmen. This is the juniors' team.
Klee
neil from elizabeth, co — 01:37 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
When are the Illini going to play in the Denver area? We have CU,CSU,AF or Wyoming available for a nonconference game.It was great when Lou brought the team to town for the old Mile Hi Invitational in the late 80s.
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:38 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Neil- My high school team in Denver used to open our season against Elizabeth. We were really good. If I remember correctly, Elizabeth was always a strong defensive team. One or two big bodies in the paint. Strong guards. Red gymnasium.
Your best bet for a Denver-area game is an NCAA tournament game in 2011. The Pepsi Center is scheduled to host first- and second-round games. We'll both be crossing our fingers.
Klee
Todd from Decatur, IL — 01:40 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Who are some up and coming Central Illinois prospects (Springfield, Peoria, Decatur, Champaign) that Illinois may be keeping an eye on in as possible recruits? Specifically freshmen and sophomores?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:41 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Todd- Keep an eye on Jay Simpson, a 6-foot-7 sophomore from Champaign Central. Purdue's Matt Painter was in to see him recently, and he's a regular at Illinois events. One college assistant said he's "absolutely" Big Ten good. Jay is playing with Mike Mullins' Illinois Wolves.
Klee
Scott from Lebanon, IN — 01:42 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Klee, Been seeing alot about Devin Langford being talked about in chat forums lately. Is he coming to Champaign for a visit soon? Howard had a tweet the other day with a trivia question regarding number of Illinois recruits from Alabama. (1)
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:44 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Scott- Right now there isn't a visit scheduled for Devin Langford. I don't think you'll see any movement from Illinois until the Brad Beal recruitment is resolved. Klee
Jim from Ballwin, MO — 01:44 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Great chats, Klee. Thanks so much for doing them.
I have two questions. 1. What's the biggest hole in DJ's game, and 2. How well do the freshman shoot FT's?
Thanks again!
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:48 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Jim- Thanks. I've been trying to find a hole in D.J.'s game since June. It's not easy. He turns the ball over too often. There's one. And it's a minor one, because much of that is due to his trying to learn the point guard position. He hasn't truly played the point the last few seasons, and it's a big adjustment. But D.J.'s ability to play the point - when they want to move Demetri McCamey off the ball for more scoring - is a crucial process for Illinois. He has the make-up for it. Tough, smart, doesn't get rattled. But over the last few practices, coaches have really stressed to him the importance of protecting the ball.
The freshmen are exceptional free throw shooters - all four of them. Nerves and otherwise could cause them to miss a few during the 2009-10 season, but over time they should prove to be very valuable at the line.
Klee
W. Spearman from Yuma, Arizona — 01:49 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
There has been alot of effort by coaches and incoming players such as Meyers Leonard to influence players such as B. Beal and Q. Miller to come to Illinois. Is this realistic, and any timetable for them to choose? Or should the staff be more realistic and go after players such as J. Siakam. Also any other players on the radar.
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:55 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
W- Yes, Illinois is in the mix for both Brad Beal and Quincy Miller. Right now I think it's a Kansas, Illinois and Florida battle for Bradley Beal. Some coaches are expecting a decision in the next two to three weeks - though obviously that could change. I think the long drive to Alabama (for his brother's football game) may have shown the family he'd like to stay closer to home. The Illinois staff was in touch with the family last Thursday. So they're still in the mix.
Klee
Jeremy from Benton, Ill — 01:56 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Hey paul, I seen were Sam Thompson took another visit this time to florida. Are we still in the mix, and if so when do you exspect him to come for an offical visit.thanks
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:57 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Jeremy- Yes, Illinois in the mix. That's another one that would move either way with Bradley Beal's decision. Illinois probably isn't getting both. I'm told Sam Thompson was planning a visit to Oregon State this coming weekend.
Klee
Kevin from Liberty, Illinois — 01:58 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Hi Klee,
Any games of note on tonight, say, at 9:30 on ESPN?
I know you'll disagree, but GO JAZZ!
Paul Klee (moderator) — 01:59 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Kevin- I like how you think. Takeoff in 7 hours, 32 minutes. The Birdman flies tonight. Klee
Ben from Naperville, Illinois — 02:00 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
I thought that they were banned from tweeting? How can Howard have a tweet about recruits from Alabama?
Paul Klee (moderator) — 02:00 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
Ben- The Twitter ban was for the players. Jerrance can tweet to his heart's content.
Klee
joe from chicago, il — 02:00 PM on Wed, 10/28/2009
first regular season game...do you see legion starting?
Good afternoon everyone. Thanks for coming by for another Illinois basketball chat. I'll be here for about an hour. Fire away.
Klee
Klee,
Do the Mikes look any stronger this year? How big of a problem do you anticipate that rebounding will be?
Thanks for the chat.
Eric- Mike and Mike don
Who is the best dancer on the basketball team? In other words, who would be the best candidate to perform in "So you think you can dance" show?
Tracy- Good question. Let me turn this around just a bit. I asked Mike Davis which teammate should appear on
What are your thoughts of the Orange and Blue scrimmage? I know it's just a scrimmage, but what is your take on this year's team? I was really impressed with Alex Legion and the Freshmen.
Kenny- My thoughts were in the N-G and on HQ the day after the scrimmage. The most noticeable change is the backcourt. Last season you had a backcourt that was strong on the defensive end. This season you have a backcourt that is stronger on the offensive end. The frontcourt is pretty much the same unit you saw last season.
Klee
Would you say Griffey and Cole are competing for the same minutes and if so, who is ahead in that battle?
Al- Not really. Billy Cole is more of a 3. Tyler is more of a 4 and - yes - a 5. At least on this team. When I asked Wayne McClain about Tyler Griffey, he said the freshman could give them minutes as Tisdale's backup as well. Bruce Weber said the same thing.
"I'm not sure he's a center, but in this day and age how many centers do you really have," Weber said.
I think that's a sign they'd like to find a way to have Tyler on the court if continues to improve and provide solid minutes.
Klee
I was at a practice last week, and I thought Bubba Chisholm held his own very nicely and he was tougher and more athletic than I had envisioned. He is obviously well-liked and respected by his teammates. Am I way off in saying that he could play some MINOR minutes and the level of play would not fall completely off the map?
Wilson- Don't look for minutes for Bubba except in the last few minutes when the result is decided. He does a great job in practice, works his tail off and he enjoys the experience. He's also looking for a job in the financial world, if anyone has an opening. Somewhere on his resume, I'm hoping Bubba includes the fact he once was a News-Gazette Delivery Person of the Month. He won a Nintendo 64 and a trip to Disney World, or something like that.
Klee
What's the latest on Mike Davis' ballhandling? In my opinion, this was clearly one of the biggest deficiencies in his game last season. If his handles improved to the point where it would even be considered average, this added dimension would make his catch-and-shoot game even more devastating.
James- Improving his ballhandling was Mike Davis' No. 1B priority this offseason. (No. 1A was recovering from a broken ankle.) He and Bill Cole worked with the guards and wings on Monday. He knows that's his ticket to a basketball paycheck. Klee
Paul - Can you tell me what date Jerreance Howard was hired as Assistant Coach for the Illini and was he the primary recruiter for any of the 2010 class that will sign in November?
Dean- Jerrance was introduced as Tracy Webster's replacement on Sept. 19, 2007. I remember getting the text message that read, "(Howard is) Going to meet with Ron G" at about 9:15 a.m. that day. He was critical in keeping 2010 star Jereme Richmond in the fold. And it would have been much, much tougher to land Crandall Head without Jerrance Howard.
Klee
Paul,
What do you expect to see at the exhibition game on Friday? Who will we hear announced in the starting lineup?
Kyle- Bruce Weber said he'd like to experiment with more fullcourt pressure and a zone. I think you'll see the former, but I'm hesitant to commit to the latter. The starting lineup probably will be McCamey, Richardson, Legion, Davis and Tisdale. That is, unless there's some sort of minor punishment for Legion's suspended-license incident in the spring. It was minor, so I don't think you will.
Klee
I have read that simpson is a good rebounder , good shot blocker
and good on defence any chance he will get some of tisdales minuets who is a good shooter but dos'nt rebound or guard?
Mike- No. I don't see it happening. Stan the Man still has a long way to go - on and off the court - before he's taking minutes from Mike Tisdale, an All-Big Ten honorable selection last season. Klee
How much playing time can we expect to see from the freshman?
Derek- DJ Richardson, Brandon Paul and Tyler Griffey are among the top seven players right now. So if the season started today they would see considerable minutes, especially the two guards. But Bruce Weber said the other day "it could take until Christmas" before they have a firm rotation. "I hope that doesn't happen," he said. The rotation, I suspect, will be a continuous work in progress.
Klee
Paul,What have you heard about Crandall Head and do you think he will play this year? If so,who for? How do you think Joseph Bertrand is doing? Do you see him getting a lot of playing time this season? Can he be a back-up at point guard on this team? I had heard he had some natural skills at the point? And of course, the latest on recruits? By the way, are you invited to attend practice?Thanks
Jack- Crandall Head told me last week he's "not going to push it" as he rehabs from knee surgery. It was a serious injury. I don't think he will play for Rich South this season. But you can't really predict how quickly a guy will recover. He wants to be healthy for when he arrives on the UI campus in June.
Joseph Bertrand said the other day he's about "80 percent" after a minor knee surgery Sept. 11. He's not all the way back, but he's close. He doesn't figure into the PG rotation at this point. More of a 3-man. Love his passing vision, though. Yes, I attend almost all of the practices at Ubben.
Klee
Paul,
With the way the Illini finished the 08-09 season, they must first prove their worth before I will put them in top 25. Having said that, they are talented and I would not mind having them in top 40. Do you agree?
Also, congratulations to coach McClain. He deserves it and it proves that loyalty still matters.
Go Illini!!
AK- We'll publish our first AP Top 25 ballot on Friday on HQ. I have Illinois in the Top 25. It was close. I think they're a borderline Top 25 at this point. But I've seen enough in fall workouts and through 11 practices to think they are worthy of a national ranking. There is a cluster of teams from Nos. 15-35 that could make a case, though.
Klee
In sports, numbers don't lie (although they occasionally tell a little fib). So, looking forward to what can be expected of Alex Legion and Dominique Keller, I'm wondering what their stats were when they played in China this summer? I'd also like to know their playing time, so we can guestimate their productivity based on how many minutes they log per game this season. Finally, what do YOU think we can reasonable expect from them this season?
Peter- Send me an email and I'll get you those stats from China. Having computer issues and can't open the file. Both players had solid offseasons. Alex Legion's confidence is higher than it's been since he arrived at Illinois from Kentucky. But it's going to be a wait-and-see thing with Legion, until he does it in a game. Dominique Keller is the first or second big man off the bench. He's been hitting shots in practice, but his priority is rebounding. If it matters, he had the most "wins" in offseason sprints among the big men. So he's in fine physical condition. Those are role guys. They don't have to be stars for Illinois to be successful.
Klee
What will Jeff Jordan's role be on this year's team?
Wizard- I expect it will be limited, particularly early in the season. He's behind the other guards at this point.
Klee
Can fans buy tickets to the exhibition games at the hall before the game?
Justin- Yes, there are plenty of tickets available and they will be available at the door. They are $22 apiece. Klee
Paul,
Don't you think it might be a wise move on your part to be less optomistic about the upcoming b-ball season after what your football counterparts predicted and what has actually happened? You might save yourself a lot of grief down the road.
Jake- I'm objective in my coverage. When I'm criticized, it's usually for being too critical of Illinois and not homer-y enough.
I have six Big Ten teams on my preseason AP Top 25 ballot. Illinois is the fifth. I've written since the spring that Demetri McCamey is a changed man and was the brightest development this offseason. He's the key. The freshmen are gifted, but each has a hole in his game. I do think D.J. Richardson could play for all but maybe two teams in the country as a freshman. He's ready for the big time. But fans are expecting too much from the freshmen. This is the juniors' team.
Klee
When are the Illini going to play in the Denver area? We have CU,CSU,AF or Wyoming available for a nonconference game.It was great when Lou brought the team to town for the old Mile Hi Invitational in the late 80s.
Neil- My high school team in Denver used to open our season against Elizabeth. We were really good. If I remember correctly, Elizabeth was always a strong defensive team. One or two big bodies in the paint. Strong guards. Red gymnasium.
Your best bet for a Denver-area game is an NCAA tournament game in 2011. The Pepsi Center is scheduled to host first- and second-round games. We'll both be crossing our fingers.
Klee
Who are some up and coming Central Illinois prospects (Springfield, Peoria, Decatur, Champaign) that Illinois may be keeping an eye on in as possible recruits? Specifically freshmen and sophomores?
Todd- Keep an eye on Jay Simpson, a 6-foot-7 sophomore from Champaign Central. Purdue's Matt Painter was in to see him recently, and he's a regular at Illinois events. One college assistant said he's "absolutely" Big Ten good. Jay is playing with Mike Mullins' Illinois Wolves.
Klee
Klee, Been seeing alot about Devin Langford being talked about in chat forums lately. Is he coming to Champaign for a visit soon? Howard had a tweet the other day with a trivia question regarding number of Illinois recruits from Alabama. (1)
Scott- Right now there isn't a visit scheduled for Devin Langford. I don't think you'll see any movement from Illinois until the Brad Beal recruitment is resolved. Klee
Great chats, Klee. Thanks so much for doing them.
I have two questions. 1. What's the biggest hole in DJ's game, and 2. How well do the freshman shoot FT's?
Thanks again!
Jim- Thanks. I've been trying to find a hole in D.J.'s game since June. It's not easy. He turns the ball over too often. There's one. And it's a minor one, because much of that is due to his trying to learn the point guard position. He hasn't truly played the point the last few seasons, and it's a big adjustment. But D.J.'s ability to play the point - when they want to move Demetri McCamey off the ball for more scoring - is a crucial process for Illinois. He has the make-up for it. Tough, smart, doesn't get rattled. But over the last few practices, coaches have really stressed to him the importance of protecting the ball.
The freshmen are exceptional free throw shooters - all four of them. Nerves and otherwise could cause them to miss a few during the 2009-10 season, but over time they should prove to be very valuable at the line.
Klee
There has been alot of effort by coaches and incoming players such as Meyers Leonard to influence players such as B. Beal and Q. Miller to come to Illinois. Is this realistic, and any timetable for them to choose? Or should the staff be more realistic and go after players such as J. Siakam. Also any other players on the radar.
W- Yes, Illinois is in the mix for both Brad Beal and Quincy Miller. Right now I think it's a Kansas, Illinois and Florida battle for Bradley Beal. Some coaches are expecting a decision in the next two to three weeks - though obviously that could change. I think the long drive to Alabama (for his brother's football game) may have shown the family he'd like to stay closer to home. The Illinois staff was in touch with the family last Thursday. So they're still in the mix.
Klee
Hey paul, I seen were Sam Thompson took another visit this time to florida. Are we still in the mix, and if so when do you exspect him to come for an offical visit.thanks
Jeremy- Yes, Illinois in the mix. That's another one that would move either way with Bradley Beal's decision. Illinois probably isn't getting both. I'm told Sam Thompson was planning a visit to Oregon State this coming weekend.
Klee
Hi Klee,
Any games of note on tonight, say, at 9:30 on ESPN?
I know you'll disagree, but GO JAZZ!
Kevin- I like how you think. Takeoff in 7 hours, 32 minutes. The Birdman flies tonight. Klee
I thought that they were banned from tweeting? How can Howard have a tweet about recruits from Alabama?
Ben- The Twitter ban was for the players. Jerrance can tweet to his heart's content.
Klee
first regular season game...do you see legion starting?