Create a New Forum Admin Login Member Login Contribute to Voyager Search VoyForums Help Desk VoyForums Exchange VoyForums Directory/Categories VoyForums Homepage VoyForums News FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

[ Show ]

Support VoyForums

[ Shrink ]

VoyForums Announcement: Programming and providing support for this service has been a labor of love since 1997. We are one of the few services online who values our users' privacy, and have never sold your information. We have even fought hard to defend your privacy in legal cases; however, we've done it with almost no financial support -- paying out of pocket to continue providing the service. Due to the issues imposed on us by advertisers, we also stopped hosting most ads on the forums many years ago. We hope you appreciate our efforts.

Show your support by donating any amount. (Note: We are still technically a for-profit company, so your contribution is not tax-deductible.) PayPal Acct: Feedback:

Donate to VoyForums (PayPal):

a, January 24 2025

[ Login ] [ Main index ] [ Post a new message ] [ Search | Check update time | Archives: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, [9], 10 ]

• The Pirates's Dilemma -- Bilgy, Tuesday, August 10, 08:37:24am
  The Pirates would have to go 43-8 the rest of the season to break their streak of losing seasons. This was supposed to be the year that this futility was to end. It is worse than ever and I don't understand it. Cleveland was recently named the second worst city to live in by the Princeton Review, mainly due to rough winter weather and very bad sports teams. Pittsburgh has good teams except for the Pirates. Thank goodness Duquesne has come up and appears to be still on the rise. On another note, Boston has very good teams. Boston has had a champion in some sport for the past 5 years (BC is NCAA Ice Hockey Champion). Maybe the rise of Duquesne can rub off on the Pirates, but it may take that buffoon of a commissioner to kick the Pirate owners in the behind to make a difference.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • This was expected to be the worst season for the pirates, they had no one to start the season other than Cutch. Now at least, they have Cutch, Tabata, Walker and Alvarez. Maybe 2-3 decent pitchers. If management has any desire to win, they sign 3-4 players this offseason that arent over the hill or other teams cast offs. But we know they wont, so expect another 90+ loss season. Every team needs more than 5 good players to win in baseball. (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Tuesday, August 10, 09:10:32am
    • New owners are a must. They Have to sign these top two draft picks in the next few days. With our luck, they'll both have Tommy John surgery in the next two years. (NT) -- Somerset24, Tuesday, August 10, 09:33:17am
      • I hear ya, they wanted those players, now sign them, face track them to majors and get them up here before the core 4 are traded or free agents. Nutting is a waste of time. (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Tuesday, August 10, 09:57:38am
      • New owners are a must. They Have to sign these top two draft picks in the next few days. With our luck, they'll both have Tommy John surgery in the next two years. -- Stevie, Wednesday, August 11, 02:11:39am
  • I predict that the Nuttings only pay one of the two top draft picks and then claim that the unsigned player wouldn't sign. (NT) -- Apluski, Tuesday, August 10, 02:20:47pm
  • Puleez! Apparently some of the Duquesne stench did rub off on the Pirates the last 17 years.....don't wish that upon either team. (NT) -- StevieDuke, Tuesday, August 10, 02:51:32pm
    • Same old troll, spiffy new name. -- El Duque, Tuesday, August 10, 04:45:29pm
      • how dare you, sir? Dont you know Pitt has 3 football players that are on preseason award lists? Its 1980 all over again according to the Pitt Post Gazette. Wonder what excuses they will use when Utah smacks them down week 1? Time change? Thinner air? Crowd noise? Gooo UTES!!!! (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Tuesday, August 10, 04:58:32pm
        • There are some closet Pitt football lovers on this board (clearly, I'm not in this category), so you have to be a little careful. On the other hand, it's good that an iconic movie such as "My Cousin Vinny" can inspire a nickname for a college football team. (NT) -- El Duque, Tuesday, August 10, 05:33:07pm
          • should mention that Greg Romeus was held out of practice, again. The PITT Post gazette considers this "headline news", since afterall, the #1 pick in next years draft has a sprained ankle or toe or something meaningless. (NT) -- I just threw up in my mouth, Tuesday, August 10, 09:43:27pm
          • I would rather sit in a room for 3 hours and watch paint dry than watch ANY football game where one of the paticipants is our good friends from Oakland. (NT) -- kenOTR73, Tuesday, August 10, 10:14:11pm
            • I'd rather watch the grass grow in AJ Rooney Field. (NT) -- svenLing, Wednesday, August 11, 06:54:27am
              • It wasn't that long ago (Gattusso was the coach here) that I would have bet that DU could beat Pitt in football. Before anyone laughs, there have been numerous upsets in which FCS teams have knocked off BCS programs. I could have easily envisioned Leigh Bodden making a pick in an open field and breaking a 0-0 game open. PS, one of the all time great upsets in college football was 7-0 DU over ESP on a rain-soaked field in the 1930s. Elmer Layden was the coach, Bilgy would remember better. He had season's tickets. (NT) -- El Duque, Wednesday, August 11, 07:50:50am
                • C'mon ED. No way could we have beaten any 1A team. We were barely competitive with weak Patriot League teams. Villanova or Richmond would have smashed us, let alone a mid level 1A team like Pitt. DU was a major in the 1930's, not now. (NT) -- duq81, Wednesday, August 11, 03:07:19pm
                  • At that time, Pitt, Rutgers and Temple, to name a few, hand their hands full with 1AAs. No way to prove it either way, now, but I won't budge off this one. Pitt stunk in those days. -- El Duque, Wednesday, August 11, 03:13:26pm
                    • Pitt has never come close to losing to a 1AA, and let's be honest, the Dukes at their best weren't close to the level of teams like Villanova and UMass. There is a huge gap between 1AA scholarship, and non scholarship programs, let alone 1A. When the Dukes were at their peak, Pitt was going to bowl games under Walt Harris. (NT) -- duq81, Wednesday, August 11, 05:15:42pm
                      • Furman was close iirc. I agree tho, we never would have had a shot at Pitt (or even a team like Temple). (NT) -- Rogabee, Wednesday, August 11, 11:44:52pm
                        • Not now. A couple years ago, you, me and nine of our best friends could have beaten Temple and given Pitt a game, IMHO. (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, August 12, 04:29:12pm
  • Romeus and the other thug defensive end for armpitt U hav made a name for themselves beating up on the weak opponents on the armpitt schedule; they both disappear against decent teams; I seem to recall the WVU O-line handling them nicely last year! (NT) -- Jules, Wednesday, August 11, 12:16:30pm
    • they, like the entire team, will be tested early at Utah, v Miami and at ND before the conference schedule starts. (NT) -- See, Wednesday, August 11, 12:44:31pm
    • i find it absolutely hilarious that on a duquesne discussion board, you all talk more about pitt than you do duquesne. pretty pathetic actually. (NT) -- me, Wednesday, August 11, 01:30:08pm
      • Do you know if Pitt plays a 4/3 or a 3/4 defense? I wonder how good Sunseri will do this year, lots of pressure on him. (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Wednesday, August 11, 02:44:25pm
        • Not sure what defense they play? Guess would be 4-3 because they have a great D-line. Sunseri is a 3rd year soph has excellent receivers and one of the top RB's in the country so he should be fine. Pitt is going to have a good year....could be a great year if they get past Utah on the road right out of the gate. Will enjoy watching that one! (NT) -- Greg, Thursday, August 12, 11:55:07am
  • Tonight is the deadline for signing draft choices. If the Washington Nationals do not sigh Bryce Harper, he goes back into next year's draft, which the Pirates will probably win first choice. So there is a chance Harper could wind up a Pirate. Harper has amazing power. He can hit the ball out of any park, including Yellowstone. (NT) -- Bilgy, Sunday, August 15, 10:07:06am

  ---

• Wright -- Bummer3341, Friday, August 13, 09:09:39pm
  P.G. just reported Joel Wright just signed with the Dukes!!
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • The good news is, Thuggy Bear is probably still drying out somewhere and couldn't undercut us this time. Yes, that's some sour grapes on my part, but I needed to say it. (NT) -- El Duque, Saturday, August 14, 10:06:00am
    • Poor, poor, pitiful Thuggy Bear... (NT) -- kenOTR73, Saturday, August 14, 03:20:14pm

  ---

• Nellie King passed away... -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Wednesday, August 11, 09:24:10am
  http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10223/1079190-135.stm
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I was lucky to have had several conversations with Nellie when he served Duquesne University. I can sum it up in a few words, "He was a nice guy, and a Good Man " (NT) -- PHILLDOGG, Wednesday, August 11, 10:34:54am
  • My condolences to his family. (NT) -- CLK, Wednesday, August 11, 11:57:57am
  • Nellie was a friend and mentor to me. Duquesne has lost a great treasure today. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. -- El Duque, Wednesday, August 11, 12:23:01pm
  • I knew Nellie very well. Always a gentlemen and a wonderful ambassador to Duquesne. He will be missed. My prayers go out to his family! (NT) -- Motor, Wednesday, August 11, 01:53:46pm
    • Perfect description my friend. When Nellie retired, the college basketball reporter for the Newark Star-Ledger devoted half a column to him. Basically said he was the classiest SID the reporter had ever met, and told nice stories about Nellie as a person. I'd love to find an archive of that some time and share it with everyone. (NT) -- El Duque, Wednesday, August 11, 02:29:08pm
  • Rest in Peace. Nellie was a quiet, decent man. (NT) -- Alan, Wednesday, August 11, 08:54:21pm
  • Nellie was one of my all time favorites. I'll never forget when that idiot Edward Wallace, fired him and Bob Prince, but it was a break for Duquesne, because Nellie fell into our lap. It's a shame the hoops team had so little success when he was the color man. (NT) -- duq81, Wednesday, August 11, 09:29:42pm
  • My family's prayers go out to Nellie and his family. At the picnic, Ray mentioned that he wasn't doing very well but he (Ray) continued to visit him regularly. God bless you Nellie, rest in peace. (NT) -- kenOTR73, Wednesday, August 11, 09:35:09pm
  • Keith Olbermann closed his show tonight with a great tribute to Nellie. They were close friends. (NT) -- RayR, Wednesday, August 11, 09:50:21pm
  • Heaven became an even better place today. -- VBC, Wednesday, August 11, 10:48:09pm
    • I can picture Nellie and Roberto Clemente talking baseball ... (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, August 12, 11:30:56am
      • As I walked into the funeral home today the first picture by the front door was of Nellie and Roberto talking. (NT) -- VBC, Friday, August 13, 06:59:12pm
  • Nice tribute to Nellie King on Keith Olbermann's Show tonight...everytime I've had a chance to observe, meet or talk to Nellie he was always a class act and always treated everyone with respect and kindness. Duquesne University should be proud of it's association to this fine gentleman.....we will all miss him. (NT) -- TKE/81, Thursday, August 12, 01:40:01am
  • Everybody I knew only had nice things to say about him, a fine tribute to a man. (NT) -- DuHope, Thursday, August 12, 09:16:34am
  • Game Called -- VBC, Friday, August 13, 05:17:19pm
    • Thanks for representing. You're a good man. Opening game at Palumbo needs to be Nellie King night. (NT) -- El Duque, Saturday, August 14, 10:10:20am

  ---

• Rush The Court Article On A10 -- CLK, Friday, August 06, 04:28:57pm
  Saw this on the A10 Board... Click Here
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I am surprised that Duquesne's write up does not mention C.J. McConnell (NT) -- Bilgy, Saturday, August 07, 11:18:48am
    • Or even his better-known cousin, TJ (NT) -- Rednbluz, Saturday, August 07, 03:53:00pm
      • Ernie Evans deserves some ink. (NT) -- El Duque, Saturday, August 07, 06:58:48pm
        • Too bad Dorian Saunders and Phil Clark didn't get the experience playing in Europe that the article talks about. (NT) -- Coffee, Sunday, August 08, 12:19:44pm
          • Think I read something about Coach Everbright not letting them go. (NT) -- Purduke, Friday, August 13, 01:44:46pm

  ---

• Pittsburgh Sports Trivia Question -- CLK, Tuesday, August 03, 08:45:03pm
  Who played for both the Pirates & Steelers in 1960?
  
  Answer Inside
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Answer -- CLK, Tuesday, August 03, 08:46:37pm
    • That's Bilgy with the Pirates banner! (NT) -- El Duque, Tuesday, August 03, 08:49:26pm
  • I know Vince LaScheide played for the Penguins and Steelers. Not sure if Vince ever played for the Pirates. (NT) -- Bilgy, Wednesday, August 04, 10:04:16am
    • Yes, Vince played for the Bucs. There used to be a big banner in 3 Rivers during the 80s. "VINCE LaSCHEIDE; PIRATE PRIDE." (NT) -- Tejas Duke, Friday, August 13, 11:06:37am
      • The Pirates are who most would think of when Vince is mentioned. (NT) -- duq81, Friday, August 13, 12:51:54pm

  ---

• Congratualations Duquesne on being ranked #373 out of 610 colleges evaluated by forbes.com. Pitt is ranked # 201 and Penn State is 192. Even the Moutaineers of WVU ranked higher at #343!!! (Link inside) -- Xyber1, Thursday, August 12, 10:24:57am
  Accept it, live with it, deal with it.
  
  http://www.forbes.com/lists/2010/94/best-colleges-10_Duquesne-University_950148.html
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Are you a DU grad? -- El Duque, Thursday, August 12, 10:39:05am
    • Yes, I graduated in 1994, and Duquesne has done nothing for me. I've been successful and made it completely on my OWN, fortunately (NT) -- Xyber1, Thursday, August 12, 11:40:16am
      • What exactly did you expect Duquesne to do for you? (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, August 12, 12:51:54pm
    • Ugh! It may be me ED. I think I'm skewing the average. I'm sorry man, I'll try to pick up the slack. (NT) -- Stevie, Thursday, August 12, 01:37:53pm
      • Got news for you ... everyone on this board is dumber JUST because I'm here. Me and my "no grade point average ... all classes incomplete." (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, August 12, 04:30:29pm
        • You're like D-Day in Animal House....."Daniel Simpson Day has no grade point average. All courses incomplete." (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Thursday, August 12, 04:38:48pm
          • this is how I started my DU career, "Mr. Kroger, two C's, two D's and an F—that's a 1.2 grade average". Good thing it ended with a couple 4.0s (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Thursday, August 12, 04:40:18pm
            • At least you were at the top of the pledge class! (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, August 12, 05:08:54pm
              • they needed the dues. Actuallu never got into the whole frat thing. Had a good group of friends, we hung together all 4 years. Good times. (NT) -- Seen on Mitlenberger St, Thursday, August 12, 11:05:17pm
                • Probably before your time, but for me it was the Playboys. Great, great bunch of guys. (NT) -- El Duque, Friday, August 13, 08:58:57am
                  • Cant say I remember them, I was there in the first half of the 90s. (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Friday, August 13, 12:49:38pm
  • I read the Forbes article. The rankings are determined from the student's point of view. Student satisfaction, success after graduation, debt, grad rate and competitive awards are considered. To be part of the 610 schools is an achievement since 6600 schools were evaluated. The schools you cited are all state supported schools(Pitt, PSU and WVU)--taxpayer money is used to keep these schools running. See how Pitt would do withtout tuition subsidies or state money for facilities. Think Pitt in the early 60's. I think DU well. It ranked ahead of Georgtown and Dayton. (NT) -- Econ69, Thursday, August 12, 02:16:42pm
    • Well said, Econ. A higher rating than GT is especially nice to see. (NT) -- MFE08, Thursday, August 12, 06:35:38pm
      • Actually, it was Georgetown College in KY, as a colleague of mine so astutely pointed out to me...Nonetheless, 5.6% of all accredited universities is a great place to be (NT) -- MFE08, Thursday, August 12, 11:10:05pm
  • Your delight in Duquesne's middle ranking by a very questionable criteria tells me that you must be very bitter about your experience at Duquesne. I'm not quite sure how your discovery of this ranking relates to the Dukes' basketball program. Your unsubstantiated claim of success arrived at completely on your own is an obvious exaggeration or distortion of what appears to be an inflated ego. Read the book Outliners by Malcomb Gladwell for reasons why very sucessful people are successful. Rarely is anyone self-made with no help from anyone else. More inside ... -- Always a Duke, Thursday, August 12, 04:24:30pm

  ---

• Duquesne beer is coming to a store near you(hopefully)... -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Tuesday, July 27, 08:40:15am
  http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/business/s_692103.html
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • That beer "Have a Duke" brings back memories of drinking the smooth one as a teenager, listening to the Dukes with Ray Goss and John Signa on'WJAS' (NT) -- PHILLDOGG, Tuesday, July 27, 09:18:38am
    • I remember looking out my dorm room window in St. Martins when I was a freshman and seeing the Have A Duke clock on the South side an realizing I was late for class. I loved the beer, but the clock had bad memories. (NT) -- CLK, Tuesday, July 27, 09:26:53am
      • I lived by that clock. I've only been back once in 35 years; the clock is not there anymore, is it? (NT) -- Shushurara, Tuesday, July 27, 10:58:25am
        • History of The Clock Click here (NT) -- CLK, Tuesday, July 27, 11:25:13am
  • Nellie King used to do beer commercials between innings of Pirate games. These commercials were for Iron City Beer. Nellie got carried away during one commercial when he said "You can have an Iron City anytime, while watching TV, while barbecueing in your back yard, or in your car." We all had a good laugh because we knew he didn't mean the last one. (NT) -- Bilgy, Tuesday, July 27, 09:57:34am
    • Until just a few years ago drinking while driving was completely acceptable in some western states such as Texas and Wyoming. In fact in Wyoming in the 1990s you could buy cups of draft beer at drive through windows at convenience stores. (NT) -- Paddy, Tuesday, July 27, 10:23:35am
      • there's a place in Key West where you can get a quart of draft beer in a milk carton. They put a staple in the spout so it's considered "sealed". (NT) -- Irish STH, Tuesday, July 27, 02:51:15pm
    • Did you ever drive to intramural football on the southside without a brown bag in the car? At LaSalle was always a case of beer in the back seat of Fresca's camaro, the NIT's meant two cases. (NT) -- Shushurara, Tuesday, July 27, 11:02:02am
    • and I believe in New Orleans (Gommorah on the Mississippi) there are still drive-through margarita and daquri stands) (NT) -- Tejas Duke, Friday, August 13, 10:58:51am
  • how many of you guys remember prohibition? Its cool seeing many generations covered on this board, from students to what appears to be folks in their....90s? :-) (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Tuesday, July 27, 04:04:09pm
    • Prohibition did a number on many of the bars out West. For instance, the bar at the Crystal Palace in Tombstone (where the Earps and Doc Holliday gahtered before the OK Corral) is not original. The original was torn out during prohibition. The original was shipped from New York to San Francisco because the Panama Canal was not yet built. I think the same may be true for the bar at the Bidcage Theater just down the street from the Crystal Palace. (NT) -- Bilgy, Tuesday, July 27, 04:37:30pm
    • Was that a shot? I think most of the folks on this thread are of my era, we remember Mickey Davis playing on a freshman team and 20 cent drafts at Frank and Wallys. Happy 60th birthday to each of us, none of whom remember prohibition. (NT) -- Shushurara, Tuesday, July 27, 04:38:09pm
      • lighten up Francis. (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Tuesday, July 27, 09:29:07pm
    • The real trick was getting beer into the arena... -- Mike Ignelsi, Tuesday, July 27, 04:40:46pm
    • My Father is 88, so he was 11 when the Volstead Act was repealed. He recalls his dad making home brew beer in Sharpsburg, also they never had a shortage of corn liquor up in Cambria County where Grandpap was from originally. People forget about Prohibition that it was only illegal to transport or sell it. You couuld still (HA HA) make your own for your own use. (NT) -- Tejas Duke, Friday, August 13, 11:01:41am
  • Stopped by local beer dist. last night and owner said he is getting Duquesne Beer in around the 16th or Aug. Said it will be $16.99/case. Bottles. Not bad price. (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Thursday, July 29, 04:33:00pm
    • Finally, a price that a Duquesne graduate can afford. (NT) -- Pgh Pete, Friday, July 30, 06:50:14am
      • Hey Pete, what's a quart of Colt 45 (the offcial drink of the Pitt Panthers) going for these days, including the requisite paper bag so you can walk around drinking it? How's your job with Howard Stern going? -- El Duque, Sunday, August 01, 04:40:59pm
    • What did it taste like? Any comparisons? Might taste different this time as they're pulling from a different water source. (NT) -- Alan, Saturday, July 31, 07:08:34pm
  • My girlfriend lives with Dudash's daughter (she is my friend) so there is a stash of Duquesne beer in the fridge downstairs! Very good stuff! (NT) -- Simms, Friday, July 30, 12:02:33am
    • Have a Duke! (NT) -- Bob, Friday, July 30, 10:06:53pm
      • I just had my first Duke (I'm only 39 so it was gone before I was able to try the original). It is a very smooth summer beer. However, I don't know how it compares to the original. I payed $16.99 at Duffy's. Great price for a good beer! (NT) -- SKIDDYBALL, Wednesday, August 04, 05:58:12pm
        • The logo is WAAAYY too feminine. Not sure a non-cosmopolitan male will like to drink face to face with a cherubish chap. Turn around now and change the logo. It's not too late. (NT) -- Alan, Wednesday, August 04, 08:03:35pm
          • Logo reminds me of a 1920's fake elixir for gout. (NT) -- Alan, Wednesday, August 04, 08:04:52pm
            • ....SO here's where the prince has been for all these years... link inside -- Alan, amusing myself, Wednesday, August 04, 08:07:38pm

  ---

• 2011 Recruit visiting today -- CLK, Thursday, August 12, 12:17:06pm
  According to Rivals, Aaron Thomas, a top 100 player is visiting DU today. Looks like Ohio State is making a strong push for this kid.
  
  "Aaron is visiting Duquesne unofficially on Thursday," said Thomas' AAU coach Ozie Davis. "He has a UTEP official set for August 27, an Ohio State unofficial visit for August 17, and potentially a Detroit unofficial visit for August 16."
  
  Clich Here For Rivals Article
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Other offers on this kid -- CLK, Thursday, August 12, 12:27:14pm

  ---

• Had a really nice time at the Avonworth rib cook-out. Coach Ron did bring up Bill and Damian's aborted trip. Just said our compliance officer advised against it. No one pushed it. Martin has still not made it through the NCAA clearinghouse. That's all he would comment. I asked if he were counting on Rodrigo and Andre to hold down the 5 and he said yes. I also advised Coach that he should just keep his calm when T.J. launches the occasional 24-footer. He responded "there is a time and place for everything" to much laughter. -- kenOTR73, Thursday, August 05, 09:46:11pm
  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:
  • Coach did say that he probably should have given Andre and Rodrigo more minutes in the beginning of last year but he is pleased with their off-season work. (NT) -- kenOTR73, Thursday, August 05, 09:54:04pm
  • The Duquesne beer was pretty decent. Very hoppy but very little CO2 which I absolutely detest in a beer. (NT) -- kenOTR73, Thursday, August 05, 09:56:17pm
  • Coach also mentioned that Jarrett Durham is really impressed with JerryJones. (NT) -- kenOTR73, Thursday, August 05, 10:01:05pm
  • Ken, thanks for the report. Sure hope Martin makes it. Was Crawford there? (NT) -- CLK, Friday, August 06, 11:01:09am
    • If Crawford is the new coach you wouldn't know it by R.E.'s remarks. Crawford wasn't there and Ron made it sound as if no announcement was imminent. (NT) -- Bummer3341, Friday, August 06, 12:34:19pm
      • I wonder how Ron feels about things being "preannounced" in the media? I'm not trying to stir up the "media wars" again, so please, no responses in that regard. I'm asking from Ron's POV and I know there are some folks close enough to the program who can answer this. (NT) -- El Duque, Friday, August 06, 12:50:28pm
        • Isnt that kind of stuff expected these days? Coaches have to go thru that at all schools I would guess. If he understands that, then it wont be a big deal. (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Friday, August 06, 01:08:47pm
          • I wasn't at the barbecue, but based on the comments above, I got the sense he might not be happy about such situations. -- El Duque, Friday, August 06, 01:44:27pm
            • Crawford was in the news elsewhere before this happened. It wasn't a leak. Here's the article: -- MFE08 (URL inside), Sunday, August 08, 10:38:54pm
              • I saw all those stories. Didn't matter. One of the papers was reporting the "news" (still unconfirmed, BTW) and commenting on the fact that DU had made no announcement. My point regarding that is personnel announcements are made according to a certain timing for a reason. They affect more than just the final candidate. DU has a right to be irked about "leaks" (if accurate) and speculation. I certainly would be irked about the stories. -- El Duque, Monday, August 09, 11:07:05am
                • Because we don't have a football beat writer that I'm aware of? (NT) -- MFE08, Wednesday, August 11, 11:42:12pm
        • The original announcement was buried in an article about Mountain State's closing that I dug up... if they'd announce things when they happen they wouldn't have this problem. Clearly it was enough of a done deal for Crawford to talk about it and for it to be in this article. What are they waiting for? (NT) -- MFE08, Sunday, August 08, 10:36:32pm
          • Ask the Trib and Russ Grimm. It may not be a done deal from Duquesne's perspective vs. Crawford's perspective. It may be as simple as the hiring process which probably includes a pretty extensive background check has not been completely wrapped up. Would you rather the Dukes announce the hire and then rescind it because of some issue they found in his background or resume? You seem to want it both ways. (NT) -- Phoenix Rising, Monday, August 09, 09:18:38am
          • Could be other candidates weren't informed yet. Could be a new candidate emerged. Could be Ron doesn't have "board approval" (whatever that is in academia). Could be a lot of things. Personnel decisions should be announced when all the t's are dotted and i's are crossed. Beyond embarrassment and hurt feelings, legal issues are always a possibility. But ... I'm just the 800 pound PR guy in the room. (NT) -- El Duque, Monday, August 09, 11:11:56am
            • It's clear you don't like the way that the profession is... people get and keep jobs by their ability to get the stories. Perhaps that's why you got out of papers (just guessing based on what you've said)? Regardless, DU's media prowess reeks of a school that is still in the doldrums and they need to catch up. They have shown zero ability to control a story. DU needs better PR to show how things are improved, not to languish while other cities' papers and other schools reveal info about DU before anyone in Pittsburgh knows it. (NT) -- MFE08, Monday, August 09, 02:24:00pm
              • But that's not what I've been saying. I've been critical of our sports information folks many times in the past because they take so long to get information out when things become pretty well known otherwise. I'm saying there are more considerations in the case of a personnel matter. (NT) -- El Duque, Monday, August 09, 05:21:06pm
                • PS ... -- El Duque, Tuesday, August 10, 11:44:37am
                  • Wow, man, I have no idea why you took that as disrespect except that you seem to want to view my comments in that way. I was merely speculating as to your desire for a voluntary change in career, not that you were bad at it, but that you didn't find the way the profession was moving to be what you wanted. (NT) -- MFE08, Tuesday, August 10, 10:41:32pm
                    • In re-reading, I can see where the way that I phrased it may have been unclear. The comment about getting/keeping jobs and your desire for a change were completely unrelated. (NT) -- MFE08, Tuesday, August 10, 10:42:36pm
                      • Thanks for clarifying. I don't want to be or seem to be thin-skinned. No problems on my end and I hope you feel the same way. (NT) -- El Duque, Wednesday, August 11, 07:45:00am
                        • Not a problem. (NT) -- MFE08, Wednesday, August 11, 08:27:29am
  • I'm sorry, but Andre Marhold is not just under-height to be a quality 5, but also under-weight. The prospect of him playing any minutes there would not bode well. I'm all for giving the kid more time, if he has earned it, but at the 5? I just don't see it. (NT) -- Slim, Friday, August 06, 02:58:40pm

  ---

• Prospective students ... -- Abdul Rahman, Monday, August 09, 12:40:00pm
  On the off chance that any large, highly skilled basketball players are trolling and looking for a place to attend school and enjoy the college experience may I suggest that you investigate the following link :
  
  http://collegeprowler.com/rankings/girls/
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • You need to e-mail this to Ron to put in his recruiting brochure. (NT) -- CLK, Monday, August 09, 03:33:32pm

  ---

• 2012 class -- Coacht, Sunday, August 08, 11:37:10pm
  I agree. I think players like anthony dallier, Micah mason, sheldon jeter , Tyler Scott, Nolan cressler, ben mickens, and Lincoln Davis will represent the area for the 2012 class very well
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • What do you think our chances are of landing some of these kids? Are there any you like more than the others? (NT) -- El Duque, Monday, August 09, 11:13:35am
    • What do you think our chances are of landing some of these kids? Are there any you like more than the others? -- Stevie, Wednesday, August 11, 03:18:42am
  • I believe we have offers on the table to Anthony Dallier & Tyler Scott. (NT) -- CLK, Monday, August 09, 12:15:57pm
    • CLK, is Sheldon Jeter related to Lance Jeter? (NT) -- El Duque, Monday, August 09, 01:21:26pm
      • Cousin... Click Here (NT) -- CLK, Monday, August 09, 03:31:09pm

  ---

• Did I miss something? -- El Duque, Friday, August 06, 09:26:50am
  Has anyone ever heard of this John Janovsky guy? Click here.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Yes, helped ease the burden of Jason Byrd. U of Armpitt grad. Oh no !! Hey El Duque, was that Dwight Gooden of 1985 pitching for the Buccos last night ? (NT) -- Somerset24, Friday, August 06, 09:32:41am
    • Hey man, while it's ok to refer to a certain school as ArmPit, never refer to it as "U of Armpit", as that insults my city. Us Appalachian types are thin skinned, and insults cast at the great city of Pittsburgh tend to be met with death threats and such. (ask the guy who does the comic strip, "Get Fuzzy") (NT) -- duq81 (Protector of all things Pittsburgh, and thin skinned urban hillbilly), Friday, August 06, 10:23:23am
  • John is a guy trying to work his way up the basketball ladder. His job with the Dukes was one of those very low pay / no pay positions. It looks like he impressed Bill Barton enough to get offered a little better position at Marshall. Good luck to John. (NT) -- Phoenix Rising, Friday, August 06, 09:41:17am
    • The entry level coaching positions are not glamourous or pretty; it's hard to break into the D-1 ranks. The article that Abdul Rahman surfaced in another post (regarding a new recruiting rule) outlines the struggles of another young coach trying to get established - Josh Daeche. It's a good read. Click here for Article (NT) -- Phoenix Rising, Friday, August 06, 09:48:54am
      • Thanks guys; I had not seen or heard his name before. With so many guys padding their resumes these days (remember the guy who spent one day as ND's football coach and I think Kevin Kennedy trying to become manager somewhere once), I would have found it amusing for someone to claim a tie to DU that didn't exist. Might have worked in a previous era, but not now. (NT) -- El Duque, Friday, August 06, 01:47:37pm

  ---

• Bad news for Damian and Bill... -- El Duque, Wednesday, August 04, 12:39:40pm
  This sucks, IMHO. We couldn't have figured this out sooner? What about the players from the other schools? Now neither player had an opportunity to get summer work in. Click here.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • As I understand the NCAA rule for non-sanctioned events, trips of this type are solely funded by the player & their family. No school & certainly no booster support is permitted. A good compliance dept. should ask the players the question - "Where's the money coming from for the trip?" If compliance doesn't receive a satisfactory answer, then they advise all that there may be an issue. Sounds like what has happened here (vs. USC where no one asked where Reggie Bush and his parents got their cars/house etc. - head in sand ignorance is no defense). Better this than being ruled ineligible in Dec. (NT) -- Phoenix Rising, Wednesday, August 04, 01:02:49pm
    • Exactly, the NCAA preys upon the smaller to mid-sized programs, easier targets. I'm with you on eligibility issues. Ironic that it is an NCAA issue involving Bill. He would have been the difference in the URI game last season. (NT) -- Stevie, Wednesday, August 04, 01:57:52pm
  • Agree with Phoenix here...better now than later. The school made the previous announcement so it seems logical to me that they were working with Damian, Bill, and the sponsors of the tournament but just didn't get the assurances on compliance that they felt were necessary. We probably will never know the complete story unless a reporter asks the questions. But would rather have it this way than having them ruled ineligible at a more innopportune time. (NT) -- Slim, Wednesday, August 04, 01:49:38pm
  • Did they go on the trip to Canada a couple of years ago? Maybe you can't go twice.. (NT) -- DuHope, Wednesday, August 04, 02:55:34pm
    • DuHope, as a D-1 team, I think the "team" can play internationally every 4 years. This is sanctioned by the NCAA with specific rules. In the case of a touring team such as the East Coast All Stars, the NCAA has minimal jurisdiction. But they do have full juridiction over a player and his eligibility, such as accepting benefits from outsiders. The key pertinent rule that I know of is that the trip must be paid for by the player or his family. BTW, I'm guessing that a trip like this would cost $2,000 to $2,500 per player. (NT) -- Phoenix Rising, Wednesday, August 04, 04:58:48pm
  • Assuming that the guys have pay for trip, GA, RE and the department screwed up. They should have determined months earlier whether Damien and Bill could afford to go on this trip. Hopefully Colin or someone at the cookout tomorrow will ask a few questions otherwise the speculation, which has already started, will go on and on. (NT) -- Econ69, Wednesday, August 04, 03:09:18pm
    • I was probably a little irresponsible to use the word "we." I am sure our compliance director (this isn't Greg's job and this isn't Ron's job to figure out) has been in touch with the NCAA for a while trying to figure it out. I'm reading between the lines, but my perception is that the NCAA hasn't clarified anything (surprise, surprise!) and we got cold feet, fearing these kids could lose eligibility. -- El Duque, Wednesday, August 04, 03:53:51pm
  • I'd rather them get 0 time in the summer and not miss even one game Nov-March. NCAA is weird. DU might have avoided a disaster. (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Wednesday, August 04, 03:58:30pm
  • Maybe Duquesne is turning the corner in having a winning program. In the past, the players would have gone, the NCAA would rule against it, and the season would be shot to hell. Never underestimate the old Black Cloud that has been a curse for years. I think a real problem was dodged, but I feel bad for the players. (NT) -- P of P, Thursday, August 05, 08:13:04am
  • Damian and Bill have done nothing to distinguish themselves to merit this trip. Let them stay home and work on their academic and training rituals rather than partying in Europe. (NT) -- Jason2012, Thursday, August 05, 08:51:36am
    • Are you serious? Damian Saunders has not distinguished himself? These are two great guys who work extremely hard at what they do. They absolutely deserved this trip. (NT) -- UncivilDKizzle, Thursday, August 05, 09:50:11am
      • Mr. Scoop! Welcome back! Got anything for us? (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, August 05, 11:34:23am
        • Not at the moment. I actually posted that Bill and Damian wouldn't be going overseas on the other forum prior to the official announcement. I try and alternate my information back and forth between the two places, haha. (NT) -- UncivilDKizzle, Thursday, August 05, 12:36:00pm
        • El Duque, I think he better stick with his rather cool handle of UncivilDKizzle vs. Mr. Scoop (although he has provided some great scoops, info and comments on a regular basis). Here's a link to the real Mr. Scoop (Click Here) (NT) -- Phoenix Rising, Thursday, August 05, 01:23:20pm
          • UncivilDKizzle is the ROOKIE OF THE YEAR! He brings content and context. If you wonder who the media follows for leads, it is UncivilDKizzle. (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, August 05, 09:29:39pm
    • And umm...in regard to academics, didn't I just read that Bill has graduated. (NT) -- ztown, Thursday, August 05, 10:04:55am
    • And regardless of which name you use for your posts, you have done nothing to indicate that you are anything but a troll. I presume that folks like you do stuff like this because you know you don't bring anything to the table. You would be better liked and more appreciated if, well, if you would simply stay away. (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, August 05, 11:31:53am
    • Jason2012, it seems that many of your contributions to this B-ball forum are generally antagonistic and often ill-informed. I suppose this approach, while a bit juvenile, may attempt to stir things up from time to time and provide you some self amusement. Hopefully as you mature, your comments will become more productive. (NT) -- Always a Duke, Thursday, August 05, 11:34:25am
  • Is there any possibility that we need to read between the lines in this case? I don't know, but often there is a hidden agenda. Why would all of the other schools fall victim to potential penalties; or, are we just being more diligent? (NT) -- Jules, Thursday, August 05, 11:24:41am
    • You can certainly read between the lines. I don't know any of these other players' circumstances. If their families are well off financially, then it's just like Mom and Dad funding their kid's Europe summer vacation. Also, these types of trips are usually set up on a payment deadline basis - a deposit was due probably early in the summer, and then 2 or 3 other payments were required until the full amount was paid before the trip commenced. It could be as simple as our players paid their deposit but couldn't come up with the money for the full payment. (NT) -- Phoenix Rising, Thursday, August 05, 11:42:50am

  ---

• Rodney Crawford -- WashpaRick, Thursday, August 05, 11:39:18am
  Colin is saying on his blog that it looks like Rodney will be filling the open coaching position.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • If it is true he sounds like a good choice. He will help recruit in the hot Ohio market. I wonder if any of these guys are still available from Mountain State... Click Here (NT) -- CLK, Thursday, August 05, 12:13:59pm
    • Mountain State Academy is closing. The players with remaining eligibility have dispersed. I believe NCAA rules would prohibit any of his former players from going to DU within 1 year of him joining the DU staff. Old time "Package deals" are now not permissable. His other connections are fair game. (NT) -- Abdul Rahman, Thursday, August 05, 12:42:08pm
      • AR, I thought the package deals rule only applied to going from one D1 College team to another. Not to HS or prep coaches. (NT) -- CLK, Thursday, August 05, 01:30:37pm
        • CLK, please see this link. It is not super clear but it is the most recent info on the subeject that I could find - http://www.cbssports.com/colle8/new-recruiting-rule-costs-hustlers-but-hurts-hustle-too (NT) -- Abdul Rahman, Thursday, August 05, 02:18:21pm
          • Thanks AR. Interesting article. (NT) -- CLK, Thursday, August 05, 03:11:06pm
    • He seems to have pretty good international connections. (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, August 05, 06:12:18pm
  • WV article -- DuHope, Thursday, August 05, 03:22:09pm
  • ESPN April 2010 -- DuHope, Thursday, August 05, 03:37:03pm

  ---

• REPORT FROM THE PALUMBO: Yesterday I was at the Palumbo to get a view of the progress on the building's renovations and speak to a few folks at the Athletic Dept. Here's a brief account of what I observed and discussed: 1.The steel framework for the the new seats in sections B-6 through B-9 was being installed. Sections A-6 through A-9 were folded up, thwarting my plans to actually sit in my new seats in A-8. Even though I didn't get to sit in any of the new premium seats, I was told they were quite comfortable. More... -- Always a Duke, Friday, July 30, 04:01:49pm
  Note that I brought my camera to take a few photos for posting here only to realize that the camera's memory card was full so unfortunately I have no pics to share at this time.
  
  2. Some had suggested that the premium seats should have had built in beverage holders in the arm rests. I was told that this was considered during the planning stages but was rejected because seats equipped to accommodate the beverages would be a bit wider than the seats sans beverage holders; and, thus, this would have reduced the number of seats in each row.
  
  3. Ticket office folks told me that the invoices for season tickets will probably not be sent out until mid-August because of delays in completing the schedule. No one knew for certain how many games would be at the Consol. The Dukes' non-conference schedule is still not complete. I was told that AD Amodio was still in conversation with Pitt over the venue for the Dukes' game against the Panthers. (In my opinion it seems that the length of discussions with Pitt over this matter is significantly impacted by Pitt's overwhelming self-interest and desire for total control. If Pitt has any sense of the Pittsburgh sporting community, one would think that playing the very first college game in a brand new sports arena against its traditional cross-town opponent would have some historic relevance that would outweigh its own vested interest.)
  
  4. There will be at least three cameras used to provide video coverage of replays and fan antics on the new overhead video board and the smaller video boards in the four corners. Several members of the Athletic Dept. have met with the Cleveland Cavaliers & Pgh. Pens to get details on how those organizations run their video boards. Discussions are underway between the Athletics Dept. and the Journalism Dept., I believe, to involve faculty and students in some aspects of the video coverage.
  
  5. Apparently there will be a new director of basketball operations for the women's B-ball team announced shortly.
  
  6. I had a nice conversation with Bill Clark while I was in the Athletic Dept. offices. He was happy and proud to announce that after successfully completing 19 credits this summer (wow), he had finished all his course work for his degree - all in three years. He will be the only Duquesne men's B-ball player in graduate school this season. I believe he said that his likely grad program would be for a Master of Science in Leadership with a Concentration in Sports Leadership. He said that his graduate course load will not be as demanding of his time as if he were taking the regular undergrad workload, and this will allow him to devote far more time to conditioning and practice.
  
  He was also excited about playing with the college all-star team along with Damian Saunders in Europe in August. When asked about his minimal participation in the Pro Am Summer B-ball League, he said that he wanted to give his injured knee a rest while he was getting therapy. Additionally the demands of his class work prevented full participation. Surprisingly he said that he found the league to be boring at times. He did say that his knee is feeling a bit better but is still not at 100% yet.
  
  7. Both Coach McConnell and Coach Everhart were out of the office - hot on the recruiting trail I was told. Let's hope they were lining up some great prospects.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Great report Always. Well done to Bill Clark! You make us proud! (NT) -- Stevie, Friday, July 30, 04:42:04pm
    • Great report Always. Well done to Bill Clark! You make us proud! -- Stevie, Monday, August 02, 02:54:14am
  • It would be a shame if the first college basketball game played in the new arena is not Duquesne-Pitt. Jamie made some type of comment last season about how DU did the right thing by giving up its home game to play the last game at the old Civic A. Now it is time to see if Pitt will do the right thing. (NT) -- CLK, Friday, July 30, 06:05:00pm
    • You are asking a lot of Pitt to do the right thing. Jamie D's best interest is not to give Duq what we want. We're not a puff team anymore and the game has become much more risky for him. We don't improve their RPI and the game means much more to us than them. (NT) -- Alan, Saturday, July 31, 07:07:08pm
  • I am amazed that GA had no agreement to play the Pitt game at Consol in the future when he decided to move the game last year to the arena. (NT) -- Mulder, Saturday, July 31, 08:24:19pm
    • To PLAY AT the CONSOL or NOT to PLAY at the CONSOL. That is the question. While this issue is near and dear to us as Duquesne fans, it's disappointing that the announcement of the historic first college game at the CEC between the Dukes and Pitt has yet to be made without any or practically unnoticeable attention in the media. As I recall, the media lobbied to a degree to make the "City Game" the last college game played at the Mellon (now Civic [as I believe God intended it to be named]) Arena prior to Duquesne's official announcement on September 1, 2009, ... (more) -- Always a Duke, Saturday, July 31, 08:41:47pm
      • It sems as though the hitoric event significance only applies to the last game in Pitt's view. Maybe DU needs to ask the Consol management help to apply some historic selling to the first game in the new arena. (NT) -- CLK, Sunday, August 01, 03:15:34pm
      • "Historic Importance", "Historic Event Significance"...why according to AlwaysADuke and CLK, the Duquesne Duke student body must be marching in the streets of the Bluff over this. Oh wait, what? All I hear are the crickets chirping? Never mind. (NT) -- Jason2012, Monday, August 02, 07:45:24am
        • "Historic significance" was the tem used by Jamie Dixon in describing last year's game, and was IMHO the public pressure Pitt applied in getting DU to move its home game. (NT) -- CLK, Monday, August 02, 08:14:13am
      • It's quite obvious, that Pitt is Greg Amodio's Daddy! Pitt is pulling all the strings on the Amodio puppet, and will hold out until Pitt is guarnteed at least 60-65% of the gate and concessions before they sign a deal to play at CEC. (NT) -- Jason2012, Tuesday, August 03, 08:33:27am
        • It's their home game , I would have no issue with giving them 65% of the revenue or more. 20-30% of something on a neutral court is better than 0% of nothing in Oakland. We need the exposure and the atmosphere much more than a higher share of revenue. (NT) -- DuHope, Tuesday, August 03, 09:49:41am
        • That is a bit harsh. I do think that Pitt did a good job of pressuring DU to give ups its home game last year, with the "do the right thing" approach. Regrettably, there appears to be no pressure on Pitt to do the right thing this year. I also do not think this is about money. I do not think Pitt wants to share the spotlight with DU on the first game played at the new arena. (NT) -- CLK, Tuesday, August 03, 10:34:30am
          • You're way too sensitive. Pitt doesn't spend much time thinking about Duquesne. (NT) -- Jason2012, Tuesday, August 03, 02:09:07pm
            • Just enough to keep Dukes from getting any spotlight. What's under YOUR arm ? (NT) -- Somerset24, Tuesday, August 03, 03:09:51pm
              • Why, do you have an armpit fetish? The Dukes will get a spotlight when there is something to shine on. (NT) -- Jason2012, Tuesday, August 03, 06:45:01pm
                • Tell him, Jason! -- El Duque, Tuesday, August 03, 08:50:32pm
                  • And sir, do you have a $#!+ fetish? Class, thy name is Duquesne. (NT) -- Jason2012, Tuesday, August 03, 10:42:21pm
                    • Schizophrenia, thy name is Pitt... for there's no way you aren't PghPete as well as Jason2012. (NT) -- MFE08, Wednesday, August 04, 09:31:17am
                    • I ain't here on "business" baby; I'm only here for fun. (NT) -- El Duque, Wednesday, August 04, 12:27:13pm
    • Then again I don't know that I am amazed at anything the great GA does or doesn't do anymore (NT) -- Mulder, Monday, August 02, 09:03:03pm
      • And based on the comments made above, was wondering if this is something Colin Dunlap or Dave Mackall might investigate? (NT) -- Mulder, Monday, August 02, 09:06:34pm
  • Always A Duke, you're mistaking the Pittsburgh news media with the Pitt media...Oh, I'm sorry, I forgot, they're the same. (NT) -- Apluski, Sunday, August 01, 02:12:50pm
    • Best thing that could happen is for us to beat them by double digits. I don't blame Dixon for any of this ... it has to be the AD or higher pulling these strings. Makes me think of Dean Wormer in action. -- El Duque, Sunday, August 01, 11:08:55pm
      • This is totally on the AD. Relax everyone, I'm sure the AD of Armpitt U, Pederson, "will do the right thing." What was that you said, El Duque ? (NT) -- Somerset24, Monday, August 02, 04:18:57pm
        • It was, ahm, well, uh ... -- El Duque, Monday, August 02, 05:30:26pm
    • The media coverage of the Pitt Ireland trip is getting rediculous. I am glad my tax dollars are paying for Gary McGhee to rub a stone, but I guess it is a lot cheaper than buying them an arena. It is unbelievable to me that they will not move the game to Consol. As Pitt fans would say, after all... it's only Duquesne. (NT) -- DCDuke, Wednesday, August 04, 09:46:45am

  ---

• My Wish List For Ron Everhart -- TMH, Sunday, August 01, 09:56:40pm
  Recently, I posted my summer wish lists of skills to be developed over the summer for Damian Saunders, BJ Montiero and Eric Evans.I nearly certain that none of them have read them but I found it to be therapeutic for myself. Tonight I have a few suggestions for Ron, although I am so far out of the loop that many may be ongoing already.
  
  I want to preface my remarks by saying that Ron has done an extraordinary job bringing Duquesne basketball back to life in a short period of time under extraordinary circumstances. I credit a great deal of it to tireless recruiting. I won't question his work ethic but like all of us there is always improvements to be made.
  
  1.) Develop your players. Perhaps it is an epidemic in college basketball today but if a freshman doesn't earn substantial playing time as a freshman, they are either relegated to basketball purgatory for the remainder of their career (Theis) or simply released to be replaced by another 18 yr old kid. With the exception of Aaron Jackson, our players have not seen substantial growth. Even Damian Saunder's statistical growth seems to be more of a function of increased minutes and lack of a complimentary presence than basketball improvement. Note that his outside shooting has gotten worse FT shooting is still anemic and assists to minutes have gone down.
  a.) Formally appoint captains..Let them know and understand the both the privilege and responsibility that goes along with it. They need to be the coaches on the court and during the offseason. Senior leadership was sorely lacking last year.
  b.) Coaching is just like teaching. Each player may need different means of motivation. Positive reinforcement works too. You need to be a father figure as well as a coach to many of these kids. I would far prefer to read about offensive strategies rather than doghouses this year.
  c.) Define everyone's role and be specific in what they need to do to master that role and then to expand it. Chemistry is everything in basketball. They all need to feel like a part of the winning formula.
  2.)You become far too predictable. You are at your best when the opposition is not ready for you. Initially, everyone knew you loved a fast paced offense and a man defense and they got it game after game and coached against it. You switched to a helter-skelter 1040 substitution pattern. Nobody was ready and it worked until it became predictably the norm. In 08-09, you caved in to playing some zone and nobody was prepared. In the playoffs you coupled it with slowing down the tempo and no one was prepared but then that too became the norm. This team needs to be multi-faceted.
  3.)Consider the match up zone. It may already be in your repetroire but I haven't spotted it. It is the great equalizer when the other team is bigger and stronger. Ask Temple or Richmond.
  4.)Motion..motion..motion. This team works best when it is in motion. I believe this was brought up by Face. That is motion on the inbounds..motion in the half court..motion in transition.
  5.)Consider moving BJ to the SF and Bill to the SF. I mentioned this earlier, BJ's skill set is best closer to the basket and it keeps his head in the game. Bill is best in space and it may keep him out of foul trouble.
  6.)TJ McConnell....find ways to get him involved early and often. I'm convinced that he makes everyone around him better.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • A bit preachy, but you make some good points. (NT) -- El Duque, Sunday, August 01, 11:06:14pm
  • 7. Stop recruiting players who do not fit your system.... (NT) -- Irish STH, Monday, August 02, 09:05:21am
    • In fairness, players like Wood, Mitchell, Bolding, Robinson all fit nicely with the system on paper, and I understand taking a flyer on a 7-footer (NT) -- El Duque, Monday, August 02, 10:08:43am
  • I agree that Ron has done an extraordinary job bringing Duquesne basketball back to life in a short period of time under extraordinary circumstances. I think the biggest challenge Ron had last season (without getting in to why), was not having enough good players. Ron's game is fast and quick, and because of the mix and quality of the bench he was forced to play some guys too much, and the extended minutes really took it toll in the second half. He tried to counter this by going back to the two platoon but was forced to play guys Newton & Marhold. -- CLK, Monday, August 02, 12:54:43pm
  • BTW, I share your opinion about TJ based on his performance this summer, and the comments from the Pitt players. He is going to be fun to watch. (NT) -- CLK, Monday, August 02, 02:28:44pm
  • #5. I prefernece this by saying I hate putting guys into a position. Good players are multi-dimensional who just ball. That being said, neither Bill or BJ are 4's. Bill is better at the 4 with his body and tenacity, which gets him into foul trouble often but is a better 3. BJ is a slasher, shooter, good without the ball and can create his own shot. He's a 3/2 if you want to put a position on him. Bill needs to play the 3, Damien the 4 and Rodrigo the 5. BJ should be first off the bench with his versatility, regardless of who needs the rest or is foul trouble. (NT) -- DU4Life, Monday, August 02, 09:28:43pm
    • On a normal college basketball team, BJ would likely be an ideal SF. I'm not sure he ever played SG in HS. -- TMH, Monday, August 02, 11:36:03pm
      • He's not a great shooter, but a decent shooter, a gunner so to speak. Don’t get so caught up in numbers. -- DU4Life, Tuesday, August 03, 12:24:47pm

  ---

• Pitino Extortion Trial -- CLK, Wednesday, July 28, 04:27:31pm
  I wonder how the Louisville fans will react to this?
  
  Click Here
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • "Very Briefly" -- lol....! He's a 30 second man (NT) -- Alan, Wednesday, July 28, 05:59:55pm
  • Fatal Attraction: Part Deux (NT) -- Stevie, Thursday, July 29, 04:43:56pm
  • What a buzz saw! Used to be the jocks got all the women and you were envious. Now you can say better them than me. It scares me how many wackos are out there, and it seems the skirt wearing ones are in a league of their own. (NT) -- P of P, Sunday, August 01, 04:07:53am

  ---

• "May God Almighty Bless Duquesne Beer..." -- Alan, Saturday, July 31, 07:12:29pm
  http://www.thepittsburghchannel.com/money/24197188/detail.html
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  

  ---

• Mike Williams has transferred to the Citadel -- CLK, Thursday, July 29, 04:24:33pm
  Colin Dunlap has posted a story on his blog that Mike Williams is going to play for The Citadel. How strange is that?
  
  Click Here
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Trib Article.... Click Here (NT) -- CLK, Thursday, July 29, 04:31:01pm
  • I wonder if grad students have to join the corps of cadets? (NT) -- Stevie, Thursday, July 29, 04:31:27pm
    • Stevie, good question. I don't get it. I think he has to sit out a year, unless being a grad student gives him immdeiate eligibility (NT) -- CLK, Thursday, July 29, 04:34:37pm
      • I was under the impression that if the college to which a player transferred had a unique graduate program degree not available at the previous college, then the transferring player would not have sit out a year before playing B-ball. On the other hand, I may be completely wrong about this. (NT) -- Always a Duke, Thursday, July 29, 09:25:33pm
        • I think you may be right. I remember two years ago there was a guy from St. Francis, probably their best player, that transferred and did not have to sit out because UMBC had a unique graduate program degree (marine biology). I thought, however he had to still get NCAA approval. (NT) -- CLK, Friday, July 30, 08:26:28am
  • Hope he is ready for the hazing, it's no joke (NT) -- TDFDC, Thursday, July 29, 11:13:27pm
  • not sure this is strange at all. Figured when he transferred it was not to go back to England; that was a smoke screen excuse. Either he was told by RE he did not fit the system or he got caught up in the cancer being spread by MB and figured he did not like RE's style. I fully expected him to resurface somewhere in college and Cidital is about the right level where he belongs. No surprises here. (NT) -- Greg, Friday, July 30, 02:25:49pm
    • My guess is that the latter is correct from the scuttlebutt I've heard. (NT) -- Padraig, Friday, July 30, 02:45:18pm
      • My guess is that he was slow with weak knees and one jump away from another season ending injury. Buh bye. (NT) -- Alan, Saturday, July 31, 07:05:01pm

  ---

• Bob Huggins - Off topic -- Abdul Rahman, Saturday, July 24, 09:25:15am
  Bob fell into a coffee table in his Las Vegas hotel room last evening and suffered 4 broken ribs. Information is that it was not related to the heart problems he had in the past.
  
  Not saying ... just saying ....
  
  Maybe karma for "Pirating" Kevin Noreen away at the end of his recruitment.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Just saying... -- VBC, Saturday, July 24, 09:36:57am
    • Hey Kevin Noreen's Dad ... your boy can go spend four years with this fine citizen, or, you can change your mind and he can spend four years with TJ McConnell. He'll earn a real college degree, date women with teeth, and be exposed to something other than moonshine and cowtipping along the way. (NT) -- El Duque, Saturday, July 24, 01:11:55pm
    • Not to mention, he'll leave our campus with his couch intact. (NT) -- kenOTR73, Saturday, July 24, 07:51:01pm
      • hahahaha. Why isn't there a "Like" button on this site? lol (NT) -- Reg's Boi, Friday, July 30, 09:28:22pm
  • Thuggy was kept an extra day ... perhaps a little time to dry out? (NT) -- El Duque, Monday, July 26, 09:06:17am
  • Reports say he broke 7 ribs now, not just the 4 originally reported. Still in hospital. I wonder if he owed the Rio some money and Rocco and Petey paid him a visit? :-) (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Wednesday, July 28, 09:03:50am
    • LOL, but he has to be hurting very bad with 7 broken ribs. (NT) -- CLK, Wednesday, July 28, 10:50:19am
      • no doubt. I wonder how he fell, or how far, 7 ribs from falling off your feet seems like a lot. We'll never know the whole story. (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Wednesday, July 28, 11:39:35am
    • If Moe Greene was still around, he'd have ordered it. There's still not a statue of him in Vegas !!! (NT) -- Somerset24, Wednesday, July 28, 12:06:27pm
      • would it be of him laying on his stomach with a bullet hole thru his eye? (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Wednesday, July 28, 03:52:38pm
  • TMH -- West Virginia Response, Friday, July 30, 02:34:09pm
    • Senility setting in..I reversed the topic and the sender...Sorry (NT) -- TMH, Friday, July 30, 02:35:13pm
    • As most Irishmen know, such things are not uncommon if/when whiskey is the medication. (NT) -- Padraig Muldoon, Friday, July 30, 02:48:28pm

  ---

• Does anyone know the following? When the men's basketball schedule will be out. Last year it was tentatively posted by August 1. When our season tickets will come? Why the AD doesn't have his e-mail on-line like everyone else? -- Thanks, Sunday, July 25, 07:05:15pm
  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:
  • No. No. No. (NT) -- FAM, Sunday, July 25, 07:31:56pm
    • ...I don't drink it no more. I'm tired of getting up off the floor. No thank you please, it only makes me sneeze. Then it makes it had to find the door. (NT) -- Ringo (El Duque), Monday, July 26, 09:10:15am
  • For DU to go from Div. II to Div. I, those questions should be answered (NT) -- Steve, Tuesday, July 27, 07:56:34pm
  • I just called about season tickets, ordered 2. Invoices will come out in a couple weeks when schedule and # of home games are finalized. I went with 2nd level new chairbacks, center court. Sales person said sales have been very good so far. (NT) -- Seen on Miltenberger St, Friday, July 30, 11:40:20am

  ---

• Derrick Martin-- Does anyone know the status for Derrick? I know he was in summer school and did not play the Pro Am league. I think he is a bigger version of Damian Saunders with the potential to really help us down low this year. I think his athleticism will fit right into our style of play. Just hope he has cleared the clearing house. Thanks in advance for any info! -- Motor, Friday, July 30, 07:49:50am
  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:
  • Hey Motor, I don't know about his eligibility status, but agree from what little I know about him that he looks to be a better fit for Ron's style of play than Williams or Lewinson. (NT) -- CLK, Friday, July 30, 08:32:03am

  ---

• Summer league MVP Gibbs praises McConnell's play -- CLK, Wednesday, July 28, 04:35:14pm
  Wanted to repost this story that was accidently deleted.
  
  
  Click Here For Trib Article
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Gibbs could have just kept his mouth shut. But, he chose to say some nice things about TJ. I know it will make some of you want to puke (ED), but I'll say it again: Pretty classy act from a Pitt Panther. (NT) -- Stevie, Thursday, July 29, 04:27:14pm

  ---

• Does size really matter? -- TMH, Thursday, July 22, 11:01:30pm
  Th real off-season now begins. This has nothing to do with the Bhullar twins (I would take them in a heartbeat) and I agree with duq81 that losing Saunders to injury would be devastating and I also agre that another big man would be a nice luxury. I'm just not sure its a necessity this year in a Ron Everhart system. Here are some stats.
  
  2007-2008
  Duquesne Opponents
  Rebounds 38.2 37.7
  Internal shooting 54.2% 45.3%
  3 Pt shooting 31.6% 36.0%
  
  In 2007-2008 we were very tall with James, Achara & Saunders.It resulted in an insignificant rebounding advantage. Our internal defense was much better than our opponents. 3 point shooting was bad and we had 17 wins.
  
  2008-2009
  Rebounds 33.4 35.8
  Interior shooting 55% 52.1%
  3 Pt shooting 35.9% 34.8%
  
  This version of Duquesne basketball was quite a bit shorter. It resulted in a deficit of 1 rebound per half. Internal defense slumped but still better than our opponents. We shot the basketball very well from the outside . The result was 21 wins and an NIT appearance
  
  2009-2010
  Rebounds 37.3 41.3
  Internal shooting 51.3% 45.4%
  3 Point shooting 26.1% 34.8%
  
  We added a 7 foter although his minutes were somewhat limited. Our rebounds went although the gap spread. Internal defense was as good as '07-'08. The biggest problem by far was pathetic outside shooting, which contributed to the opponents rebounding total.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • TMH, nice post. I agree to a point. Had we made our foul shots last year I think we might have won 20-games. However, to get to the next level we need a bonafide big man. (NT) -- CLK, Friday, July 23, 08:24:09pm
    • Thank you CLK. There were several points to this point. -- TMH, Friday, July 23, 10:01:09pm
  • At the end of the day, this proves what any basketball person will say, shooting and defense win games, not 7 footers that lumber around in the paint. In RE's system, you need guys that can run the floor and that will translate to some wins automatically. If these same guys can shoot the ball, then that translates into a bunch of wins. Ron got 4 frosh that can run the floor in this class and 2 of them that can really shoot it - TJ and JJ. It has been and always will be the guard play that determines the better teams in the non-BCS conferences and I feel good about our guards in the future. (NT) -- A Friend of the LT, Saturday, July 24, 08:22:14am
    • Would you take the Bonnie's center? I would. (NT) -- Irish STH, Monday, July 26, 03:30:01pm
      • Just to add in my two cents - a Ron Everhart center is really sort of a PF/Center hybrid. Shawn James really played more like a PF from the 5, he just had the size and hops to be called a center. Not saying yes or no to Nicholson, just sayin'. (NT) -- MFE08, Monday, July 26, 11:12:39pm
        • Good point although I would take Nicholson. From the game I attended, he can run the floor. (NT) -- TMH, Tuesday, July 27, 10:22:02am
      • Sure. But he is athletic and can run, tough to find big men that can do what he does. James was pretty close. But there are not many Nicholson's and we would have signed him if it wasn't for Big Mike on the roster. Little did Nicholson know that Mike would not have been much competition. (NT) -- A Friend of the LT, Thursday, July 29, 03:49:26pm
  • In conference play, we were a -99 in points from beyond the paint and a - 15 in FTs even though we shot more FTs than our opponent. Our overall scoring differential was a -3.5 pts. We were also a -103 in rebounds. Zero those out and we hit 20 wins. (NT) -- Irish STH, Monday, July 26, 03:28:50pm
  • There are situations when the lack of height can really hurt you; 1) you can't shoot from the outside; 2) opposition has a big man that we can't handle one on one and you are forced to double team, esp. if opponent has decent outside shooters; 3) opponent has 2 or more quality big men. Examples: we saw #1 all last year; #2 was seen in the Bonas games where inside Nicholson / outside Matthews; and #3 with Temple with Allen/Eric or Richmond with Geriot/Harper. You're probably looking at 6 to 8 games where #2 or #3 come into play; shoot better and you can win 20+ games without added height. (NT) -- Phoenix Rising, Tuesday, July 27, 12:09:47pm
  • Also, I can't believe that there is any discussion regarding whether RE would take Nicholson on the Dukes roster. Nah, RE wouldn't take a first team A-10 player on his squad (who also is a good student and outwardly a solid citizen). Geez. (NT) -- Phoenix Rising, Tuesday, July 27, 03:52:18pm
    • I was thinking the same thing. If we had Nicholson, we'd be debating what our seed will be in the NCAA's. (NT) -- duq81, Thursday, July 29, 11:19:20am
      • Ron had mentioned that he was close in getting Nicholson. I don't know the real story but remember hearing that one of his now former assistants did not think he was good enough which is kind of hard to imagin. (NT) -- CLK, Thursday, July 29, 12:05:03pm
        • I had heard we were close to getting Nicholson as well. It may have been JD that told me that. (NT) -- VBC, Thursday, July 29, 12:07:19pm

  ---

• GoDuquesne.com INTRODUCES NEW MULTIMEDIA PLAYER -- CLK, Wednesday, July 28, 09:01:27pm
  GoDuquesne.com is excited to introduce the new Duquesne All-Access multimedia player, your online channel for the most audio and video coverage of Duquesne Athletics.
  
  New features include expanded video navigation controls, such as video jogging for fast forwarding and rewinding, and advanced search functions to help you get the content you crave. The new on-page video player interface is at a 16:9 aspect ratio offering a full-screen mode and is compatible with Adobe Flash-enabled web browsers.
  
  Menus are now in a tab format and contain preview thumbnails of video items for easy navigation of content. Viewers can sort videos by most recent, by sport, by featured channels or by live events only. Each tab offers additional filtering options to help viewers find their content quickly.
  
  More advanced search features allow users to search by keyword or within a date range. Users can further narrow their advanced searches by sport, channel and category.
  
  Duquesne All-Access now makes it easier for fans to share their favorite videos with their friends and family. Unique public video links allow for easy link sharing while "Share" options within the video player allow users to send links directly to social networking sites. Fans can also send video links directly to friends with the "Email to a Friend" function.
  
  Duquesne All-Access is an online subscription streaming multimedia service that offers live and on-demand streaming audio and video of Duquesne Athletics and other features highlighting Dukes teams, coaches and student-athletes.
  
  Dukes fans wishing to get the most online video coverage of Duquesne Athletics can purchase a monthly subscription at $9.95, or upgrade to an annual subscription for $79.95. Your purchase helps support Duquesne Athletics.
  
  Duquesne All-Access is offering a free trial period to all fans and alumni until August 9. On August 9, premium content will be available only to subscribers.
  
  Current subscribers can log in on August 9 and start accessing premium content immediately
  
  
  Click Here
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  

  ---

• Duquesne v. Iowa - 2009 Nov. 17 - Last 6 Minutes -- CLK, Tuesday, July 27, 12:49:40pm
  Here is a summer fix to get us ready for next season
  
  

  Click Here
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  

  ---

• Seton Hall ex-coach (and El Duque's Godfather) Gonzalez pleads not guilty -- CLK, Sunday, July 25, 06:34:46pm
  Click Here
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Soon as he clears bail, he'll be a good fit on Thuggins' staff. Another good law-abiding citizen. (NT) -- El Duque, Monday, July 26, 09:07:05am

  ---

• My heart goes out to Coach Cowher and his family ... -- El Duque, Saturday, July 24, 01:17:40pm
  His dear wife died after a bout with skin cancer.
  
  Been through the cancer struggle with my own wife - four times in eight years - so I can understand what he's been through. Fortunately for my own family, she's doing OK right now.
  
  Appreciate what you've got while you have it guys. God bless!
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  

  ---

• Story on Orsi Szecsi from DU Official Site -- CLK, Friday, July 23, 07:10:49pm
  KAVADARCI, Macedonia - Orsi Szecsi recorded a team-high 11 points and game-highs of 13 rebounds and four steals, but it was Slovakia who escaped with a 49-46 overtime victory over Hungary in the quarterfinal rounds of the 2010 FIBA Europe U20 Championship for Women on Friday afternoon.
  
  This was the second double-double for Szecsi of the tournament. She scored 21 points and pulled down 19 rebounds in Hungary's 77-65 win over Belgium in the preliminary round played last weekend.
  
  Hungary will play Greece Saturday afternoon for the right to play for the fifth place against the Israel/Portugal winner.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • I particulary like her rebounding numbers in this tourney; although I have seen her listed as a guard; she will need to compete on the boards for the Lady Dukes; I saw her for Oak Hill in a tournament and she is a very mature player; good court awareness; good shooter, good passer; gets up and down the court well. I am looking forward to seeing her impact on the Dukes. (NT) -- Jules, Saturday, July 24, 11:55:10am

  ---

• Behemoth Sim Bhullar a 7-4 showstopper at FIBA tourney -- CLK, Thursday, July 22, 07:44:28am
  
  
  Click Here For SI Article
  
  Pitt has now offered as well as WVU. I have to believe Ron is also recruiting this kid given the DU connection.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • An earlier article the brothers stated they were looking for a school to play at together. (NT) -- Bummer3341, Thursday, July 22, 12:23:35pm
  • I still would love to see them here, but Pitt freed up some cap space and I'm sure Thuggins would go to any length (no pun intended) to get them. (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, July 22, 01:52:03pm
  • With all the hype suddenly surrounding the two giants; I doubt that Duquesne is on their list; not sure how Daryn feels about the Duquesne program anyway; might not be as helpful as one might think. In general I would still prefer smaller but quicker big men; these types tend to require a much slower style of play. (NT) -- Jules, Thursday, July 22, 04:52:45pm
    • C'mon Jules. We aren't in a position to be turning away twin towers. (NT) -- Alan, Thursday, July 22, 06:18:25pm
      • Gonna need an answer for Kevin Noreen, if nothing else. (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, July 22, 06:45:35pm
      • okay Alan, I'm open to hearing how these two fit in with TJ McConnell. (NT) -- Slim, Thursday, July 22, 09:58:59pm
        • OK. Rebound. Outlet to TJ. TJ pushes. #-pt shot at line in transition, or TJ drives to bucket, scores and gets fouled. Traditional 3 pt. Scenarion B: Blocked shot. OutlTJ pushes. #-pt shot at line in transition, or TJ drives to bucket, scores and gets fouled. Traditional 3 pt. basket. Remember Majic, Norm and wilkes pressing the ball; Rambis mid-dourt to Follow a miss and KAJ watching from the other end? (NT) -- Purduke, Thursday, July 22, 10:26:32pm
          • yeah...cause that's exactly the way it happened with Mike Williams... (NT) -- Slim, Friday, July 23, 06:12:20am
          • By the time either of these two would be ready to contribute, TJ will be playing in Europe. (NT) -- duq81, Friday, July 23, 06:28:24am
        • In transition, they would be a liability although I'm not sure you need 5 guys in transition. In the half court, TJ would certainly find a way to get the ball to them inside. (NT) -- TMH, Thursday, July 22, 10:42:33pm
        • you're right. let's pass on these chaps and let an ACC school scoop up our dregs. Again, i don't think we're anywhere near being picky about which 7 footers we don't want. (NT) -- Alan, Friday, July 23, 01:22:43am
          • These guys are projects. Bigger schools with bigger recruiting pools can afford to eat a couple of projects that don't pan out. My feeling all along on these two is to watch and see how they develop, but don't fall in love with their size; there are plenty of 7-foot stiffs. (NT) -- Slim, Friday, July 23, 06:15:49am
            • Sometimes I think: If you can just teach the guy where to be in the paint, with his arms in the air, he will alter a lot of shots and at least make a difference defensively. Of course, there is an answer to this too… jump over the guy (Click here). (NT) -- El Duque, Friday, July 23, 01:42:49pm
              • NICE, ED. (NT) -- Alan, Friday, July 23, 05:30:18pm
            • I dunno, when I was little, it sure was hard to shoot a basket on the right side of the playground due an overgrown and unpruned tree. No matter the angle, the shot just wouldn't go in. Just saying... (NT) -- P of P, Friday, July 23, 03:38:22pm
              • P.S Wonder how good these two guys would be at wrestling bears? (NT) -- P Of P, Friday, July 23, 03:42:35pm
            • Slim, I doubt we have any chance to get him, way too many BCS schools all over him. To your point about waiting on offering prospect, we are not at a point as a program yet where we can wait and offer at the last minute. Someone posted, and I agree, being able to offer early while it is risky is a way to get jump on a prospect before they see the lights on broadway. (NT) -- CLK, Friday, July 23, 08:36:01pm
              • I get that...with these two though I think it would be wiser to express "interest" but not offer at this point...too much risk. (NT) -- Slim, Saturday, July 24, 04:01:04am
  • I wonder what Rolf Mayr is doing these days? (NT) -- VBC, Friday, July 23, 03:12:45pm
  • Right! I think Rolf was studying to be a minister (NT) -- Jules, Friday, July 23, 04:54:00pm
  • I hear the Buccos are trying to sign the brothers as pitching prospects! (NT) -- Jules, Friday, July 23, 04:55:56pm
    • Yes, Huntington said they had a high ceiling !!!!! (NT) -- Somerset24, Friday, July 23, 07:53:03pm
      • now that is funny. (NT) -- Slim, Saturday, July 24, 04:02:13am

  ---

• Comment by a Pitt Fan on thier Rivals Board - By Sean Miller Fan -- CLK, Friday, July 23, 06:49:13am
  TJ McConnell - He was the other pleasant surprise this summer. I had never seen McConnell play before this summer and I heard everything from "he's the second coming" to "he'll never get off the Duquesne bench" so I was very excited to see what this kid could really do. I think the question though is what CAN'T he do. I am going to throw out some hyperbole because this is what I think of TJ McConnell. I think he's the best guard to come out the WPIAL since Sean Miller. I think he is a Top 50 (yes Top 50) incoming freshman. There isn't any way possible there are 50 better players than this guy. TJ McConnell is everything some of us "recruit to shoot" fans have dreamed about. First of all, he doesnt miss a 3. I dont know if they kept 3 point percentages in this league, but had to shoot about 50%. He wont dazzle you with his ballhandling like the white Jason Williams but he has a very solid handle and was never stripped the entire summer that I can remember. Here are the amazing this to me: He is pretty quick! He gets into the lane and slithers his way to finish at the rim. He BLOCKS shots. He had a few blocks that I just couldnt believe what I saw. He plays GREAT defense. It is easy to stereotype small white guards and if you watch McConnell warm up, he would seem to fit those stereotypes but after watching him play about 5 minutes against major D1 competition, you can see that this kid is legit. I would have LOVED to see him in a Pitt uniform. Surely, Jamie questioned his defensive ability and physicality and the problem with TJ is that the competition he played in HS was so bad and I dont think he played in major AAU tournaments. Therefore, Jamie and others could not guage what he could really do. We've all seen guards like him light up the WPIAL then either flame out in D1 (Yuri Demetris) or end up in D2 or D3. That wont be McConnell. I think he'll average 10 a game for Duquesne and could be the A10 freshman of the year. McConnell is not your stereotypical "white shooter." As I said, he plays lock-down (yes, lock-down) defense. In the championship game, he picked up Ashton Gibbs FULL COURT and while McConnell didnt cause any turnovers and even though Gibbs isnt exactly Allen Iverson in his prime, the fact that McConnell was right there with Gibbs for 94 feet impressed the heck out of me. Gibbs was able to have a nice game against McConnell but he worked for everything he got. I think the question some Pitt fans will be asking for the next few years is why Jamie didnt offer McConnell instead of Cam Wright.
  

  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:

  • Incredible just incredible to see the Pitt Fans raving about TJ. I cant wait to see him in a Dukes Uniform and never have I seen one of our recruits get such publicity before coming in locally. But hes not a shooter hes a scorer. Oh I forgot he shot 50% from 3 and did it against top notch Div1 players summer league or not. WOW! Thanks for the info CLK (NT) -- Motor, Friday, July 23, 07:36:53am
    • Agree Motor. Nice to see you back. He is both a shooter and a scorer and to think or say otherwise is insane. He will have ups and downs as a frosh and I sure we will hear the "I told you he wasnt a shooter or I told you he wasnt very good". But when we look back on his 4 years, all of those getting their early "kicks" this year will definitely have egg on their faces, if they dont already. We have 4 nice options to play the #1 and #2. Young, but most depth in RE era. (NT) -- A Friend of the LT, Friday, July 23, 09:11:59am
      • "Young" really only means something until January. I think we are destined to make a big run this year in the A-10. (NT) -- El Duque, Friday, July 23, 09:56:51am
    • That really is incredible. I have to say, however, most of the comments I have read by the Pitt fans have been very complimentary of not only TJ but Talley & Jones as well. It will be fun watching these guys play together and develop. (NT) -- CLK, Friday, July 23, 11:46:54am
    • Motor, publicity-wise, I know BB Flenory had a big build-up upon arrival. Pipkins and Kevin Price, too. But the Internet really has kicked things up a notch, hasn't it? Welcome back - great to be talking B A S K E T B A L L again! (NT) -- El Duque, Friday, July 23, 12:32:25pm
      • Thanks for the welcome El D and I will throw out another big hype ATKINS and ARNOLD but your right the Web has kicked it up intensely. I love our freshmen and this class if it stays together has the potential to be one of the all time best! We can only hope! (NT) -- Motor, Friday, July 23, 12:58:58pm
        • Who could forget the A-trains (no disrespect to Don Vito L-Train)? Their arrival coincided with the hiring of Mike Rice and had the city quite pumped. I think this year's frosh class will indeed pump some new life into the program. It's nice that we already have some good talent already here, for a change. (NT) -- El Duque, Friday, July 23, 01:36:49pm
          • The Atkins & Arnold hype was the biggest I can recall. And for someone who left town, how about Lloyd Moore's recruitment? A big factor in him leaving town was he was tired of all the publicity. (NT) -- VBC, Friday, July 23, 03:09:54pm
            • Wow, Lloyd Moore. He was John's "little" brother, right? He and Billy Varner (BB's cousin) were guys in the pre-Internet days who were thought to be "locks" for us. Lloyd had a world of potential but an injury at Marquette and the inability to control his weight at Rutgers cost him. Varner was decent at Notre Dame. I heard he wanted to be a "big PG" but Rice had him pegged for the frontcourt. Bet someone has the real scoop on both ... (NT) -- El Duque, Friday, July 23, 04:00:14pm
          • "You think too much of me kid." V. Sollozzo (circa 1948) (NT) -- Somerset24, Friday, July 23, 03:43:05pm
  • Also some very nice comments about Talley further down that same thread over on the Pitt Board. I know it's a tall order but, boy, would it be nice to take them down this year. (NT) -- ztown, Friday, July 23, 09:36:23am
  • Great to hear these comments on TJ from the Pitt board; but with all due respect to Sean Miller; TJ is a different kind of player than Sean. Sean was a great ballhandler and passer, and could hit the open three; but didn't get to the hoop or play an athletic game like TJ. He also played with Smith, Gore and Lane which didn't hurt. (NT) -- Jules, Friday, July 23, 02:58:58pm

  ---

• It looks like this board will have its one millionth visitor sometime during preseason practice this year. -- P. Muldoon, Tuesday, July 20, 04:56:59pm
  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:
  • congrats clk (NT) -- ironduke81, Wednesday, July 21, 11:39:55pm
    • Actually, my friend duq81 is the pioneer that started this board. (NT) -- CLK, Thursday, July 22, 06:09:51am
      • congrats as well duq81 (NT) -- ironduke81, Thursday, July 22, 06:50:46am
        • That was when Inside the web went bye-bye. I don't know who set up the ITW board that preceded this one. (NT) -- duq81, Thursday, July 22, 07:33:41am
          • Nananananana -- STATMAN! I believe Statman launched one of the early boards. Did Motor also have a board? Or was he "only" a frequent poster. I miss those guys along with some of the other "oldtimers" who don't post any more. (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, July 22, 01:56:50pm
            • ED, Motor was a frequent poster. He still attends home games religously, but has not posted here for years. (NT) -- Abdul Rahman, Thursday, July 22, 02:12:11pm
              • I am here! -- Motor, Thursday, July 22, 03:21:05pm
                • Good to hear from you Motor! Didn't we all talk on an A10 themed board before we went to these team boards? I think I remember that board in hte 98/98 timeframe. Good to mention DuDen, he worked this board pretty hard as well and, of course, Statman. I think Wings was an early participant as well, he may have had a couple noms-de-plume. (NT) -- Stevie, Thursday, July 22, 03:47:28pm
                  • I found some other old board a long tome ago that had two other posters: JoeyGee (my Beta friend) and a guy who I think went by the name "Lionel" (no, I don't think it was that one ...). JoeyGee tipped me off to something that had a couple more fans and it's been fun to watch it all grow along the way. I've had the good pleasure to meet many of the posters, e.g., L-Train, G-Hog, Padraig, Statman, Motor, Den, JoeyGee, etc., at some games. (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, July 22, 04:02:46pm
                    • El D, i remember Lionel and i think DU Hope was on that board wasn't he? I believe that was an AOL board. Thats a lot of years ago now. (NT) -- JPG-DU81, Friday, July 23, 10:26:25am
                • Hey buddy -- CLK, Thursday, July 22, 05:53:22pm
  • Congrats CLK and Duke81! What are you giving away to the 1,000,000 post? (NT) -- Coffee, Thursday, July 22, 10:04:45pm
    • One night at Motel 6 with Rosie O'Donnell. I know you guys just can't wait. (NT) -- duq81, Friday, July 23, 06:32:33am
      • We'll leave the light on ... (NT) -- El Duque, Friday, July 23, 01:32:10pm

  ---

• Greentree...All Div1 Team includes TJ McConnell and Eric Evans. All rookie team has Jerry Jones and Mike Talley. TJ McConnell is best Newcomer. The MVP will be announced tonight. -- TMH, Wednesday, July 21, 03:53:33pm
  [ Edit | View ]
  
  Replies:
  • Full All League Teams -- CLK, Wednesday, July 21, 06:01:52pm
    • If this is any indicator for thr upcoming season, guard play should be the least of our worries. Conversely, we are a Saunders injury away from a return to Nee-ville (at least temporarily). Please don't let him get hurt over in Europe. (NT) -- duq81, Wednesday, July 21, 09:33:42pm
      • Nee-ville? While I understand you point about the need to keep Saunders healthy, there is way more talent on this team than any of the Nee teams. If there is a knock on Ron's recruiting it is his inability to sercure a servicable big man to play with Saunders. Peggau may improve, and Martin may surprise us, however it looks like we are a big man short of doing major damage this year. (NT) -- CLK, Thursday, July 22, 10:39:54am
  • Ashton Gibbs team won the championship, and he was named the MVP. Gibbs, TJ, and Gil Brown were clearly the three best players this summer. TJ going up against Gibbs multiple times, and holding his own is only going to make him better. (NT) -- duq81, Wednesday, July 21, 11:16:48pm
    • Looks like the final score was 104-93. "In the loss, McConnell and Brown came back to have strong second halves. McConnell finished with 23 points, as well as a team-high five rebounds and four assists. Brown, who finished as the league’s leading scorer (23.6 points/game)," It sounds like Lance Jeter had a big game. (NT) -- CLK, Thursday, July 22, 06:22:28am
      • Always liked Jeter. Was sorry we didn't land him. But I'm pretty happy with TJ. (NT) -- El Duque, Thursday, July 22, 01:46:30pm

  ---