UA competing with Pitt again for recruit
Ironic isn’t it that three of Arizona’s first four recruiting challenges this spring have included new Wildcat coach Sean Miller going against his alma mater Pittsburgh?
Kevin Parrom became the most recent recruit to be courted by the Wildcats and Panthers, among others, when he told Rivals.com Friday that he has narrowed his choices to four schools: Arizona, Pitt, Virginia Tech and Xavier.
The other recruits:
- Kyryl Natyazhko, a 6-10 center from Bradenton (Fla.) by way of the Ukraine. Result: Natyazhko signed with Arizona.
- Jarrid Famous, 6-9 center from Westchester (N.Y.) Community College. Result: Famous signed with South Florida.
It seems ever since Miller was paired against Pitt — his hometown school which he attended with his wife — in the Sweet 16, he has been bucking heads with Jamie Dixon ever since.
Parrom is an aggressive 6-6 wing player from South Kent (Conn.) Prep who has the athleticism to go strong to the basket. He also has a long-range shooting touch. How does he fit into the plans of the Final Four that he listed to Rivals.com? Let’s take a look:
PLAYING TIME?
- Arizona: He would join a guard-oriented unit with five returners in the backcourt, including Nic Wise if the senior-to-be returns instead of playing professionally overseas or in the NBA. But other than Wise, Kyle Fogg and Zane Johnson, playing time was sparse or non-existent for Brendon Lavender and Garland Judkins. Top-flight recruit Solomon Hill, also at 6-6, should share time at guard and on the wing. Anlaysis: Parrom can fit right into the rotation. His aggressive style of play will earn him plenty of minutes and push all the returning players to play better in practice. Miller became known at Xavier for having a roster full of 6-4 to 6-6 combo players. Xavier’s roster this season had six like that, including senior B.J. Raymond who has similar height but is a little bigger than Parrom at 6-6 and 226.
- Pitt: The Panthers have four guards returning who averaged at least 10 minutes a game, including three (Jermaine Dixon, Gilbert Brown and Brad Wanamaker) who tallied more than 19 a game. Other than Wise, the UA had only two other guards with significant minutes returning in Fogg (24.1) and Johnson (19.1). Pitt has already signed 6-5 Lamar Patterson, rated the No. 124 prospect by Rivals.com. Analysis: The competition for playing time for Parrom will be a bit more at Pitt than Arizona. Parrom indicated to Rivals.com that he will visit Pitt on Sunday.
- Virginia Tech: The Hokies have a couple of players at Parrom’s position returning in Dorenzo Hudson (20.6 minutes) and Terrell Bell (12.4), but their minutes do not compare to the amount of time played by Fogg and Johnson this season. In terms of immediate playing time, Virginia Tech could be the best fit for Parrom. Analysis: Parrom can come into the Hokies’ program and average more than 20 minutes a game, but what will those minutes amount to? Virginia Tech traditionally underachieves under Seth Greenberg whereas Miller has an Elite Eight and Sweet 16 appearance on his resume. Parrom has not indicated that he will officially visit Virginia Tech.
- Xavier: Parrom has already backed out of his letter of intent with the Musketeers so it is difficult to believe he will re-sign with them. The main reason why he signed with Xavier initially was the presence of his former AAU coach Emanuel “Book” Richardson, who is now an assistant at Arizona. He has left Xavier on his list out of respect for Xavier coach Chris Mack. Parrom reportedly has indicated to Mack that Xavier is still an option; he just wants to see what else is out there.
In the end: The recruitment of Parrom should boil down to Arizona and Pitt. Richardson was successful in recruiting Parrom to Xavier; chances are he will have the same success at Arizona with a more renowned program than the Musketeers. Arizona at times next season could have its three freshmen on the court at the same time — Hill, Natyazhko and Parrom — for extended minutes and they can be the nucleus for the future.
The fresh direction of the program under a new coach and the youngest staff in the Pac-10 can only be exciting for Parrom. How about this lineup at times?: Wise at point guard, Parrom at the off-guard, Hill at wing forward, Horne at power forward and Natyazhko at the post. That’s an athletic lineup that can run and play defense. Add to it the hustle of Fogg, shooting of Johnson and likely improvement from Judkins, Lavender and Jacobson, and it has the makings of a decent team in Miller’s first year. It just might be good enough to entice Wise to return instead of going to Europe.
UCLA recruit reportedly interested in UA. As has been discussed on this blog, Coast2Coast Recruiting is reporting a rumor that Tyler Lamb is reconsidering his verbal commitment to UCLA and might be interested in Arizona.
As with any rumor, you have to be careful about its validity. Lamb, a 6-3 shooting guard rated by Rivals.com as the No. 99 player of the Class of 2010, was offered a scholarship by Lute Olson and his staff before the start of this season. He committed to UCLA last September.
The Bruins did not recruit a shooting guard for the Class of 2009, so if Lamb is reconsidering his verbal commitment, it has nothing to do with the Bruins and his potential playing time. It would only be because other Mater Dei (Calif.) prospects have thrived at Arizona and the Wildcats now have an accomplished young coach in Miller.
But a rumor is a rumor until proven otherwise.
Tags: Arizona, Natyazhko, Parrom, Pitt, Sean Miller, Solomon Hill, Virginia Tech, Xavier
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April 25th, 2009 at 10:05 AM
Arizona Wildcat fandom should get use to Javier M’s insightful take, that Arizona will be battling Pittsburgh and the rest of the behemouths in the nasty Big East for elite-level H.S. ballers.
For the the future influx of hopeful Wildcat’s won’t be exclusively limited to west of the Rockies but will, now, reach way, way, way back beyond the Montana’s to the eastern seaboard megatropolis’, i.e, The Big Apple, Jersey, Philly, MoTown, Chicago, etc.
April 25th, 2009 at 10:48 AM
Should the ‘Cats land Tyler it would be sweet victory.
Floyd and Howland beaten at their own game by what was once their own players, and by a much younger Coach, our Coach.
It doesn’t get any better than that.
Miller with Parrom an imminent signee and with a rich tradition of attracting greyhound wing players knows exactly what he’s doing.
Quickness on the wings allows his team to play pressure D he likes, and now he’ll find a luxury maybe he didn’t have at Xavier: “Bigs” like Kyryl and Jacobson (give it time and coaching) to pound it into on offense and to board and start the break on D.
Ever notice Coach “Mills” smiling a lot lately?
Kinda reminds me of Luther Legend: The Eaerly Days – and Nights.
You remember, when he was turning out, yes, PGs, but also “bigs” “Ace” Cook, Ben Davis, “Wookie” Rooks, “B-Dub” Williams, Joe “JT” Turner, Jud “Buech” Buecheler, AJ Bramlett, Bennett Davison, Michael Wright, Channing Frye, etc, etc, etc.
The question is: Does Coach Miller make a play for Parrom, Tyler and Stephenson?
Or, is it Parrom, Tyler and a mystery F-C?
April 25th, 2009 at 11:01 AM
How could I forget “JB” Blair and “Easy” Ed Stokes?
PG U, Hot Wings in the City and Big Man Bay working in unison – the Coach “O” and Coach “Mills” way.
Dang, I’d be smiling too.
Hell, I am!
April 25th, 2009 at 11:31 AM
Let’s think about this…
Lamb finds out that UCLA is now in the picture for Stephenson and so he decides to go to UA to prove Howland wrong.
And so now we have S. Hill and T. Lamb playing for the young buck Miller with chips on their shoulders the size of, well, California.
Wow!
That can only be good.
BTW, Pitino wanted Lamb pretty badly too way back when.
If Stephenson is good for one year, then I say Miller opts for Lamb – together with Parrom, or as a fall back should Parrom pull a Famous.
This whole thing’s a chess match, and you gotta love the young kid’s spunkiness, his astute way of making moves with the big boys of coaching.
This I don’t believe O’Neill or Pennell could’ve accomplished.
Don’t you guys remember when O’Neill on his own was lining up all those no-name, unknown, non-descript HS and JC (?) players when he thought he would be following Lute?
Thank God we didn’t go that route.
BTW, anyone have that list of recruits O’Neill was amassing?
Anybody know where they might’ve landed?
It may be interesting to find that out just for the heck of it.
April 25th, 2009 at 11:35 AM
lamb would be part of next years class. he is similar to hill, liked the U backed off when lute retired and now has interest again. parrom would be a huge get, i believe, add some depth and plus he is a warrior. stephenson can take his ball hog style somewhere eles. IMO.
hill , kryrl and parrom make for a nice 1st recruiting class for miller.
April 25th, 2009 at 11:56 AM
Update on Weatherspoon (2010 Xavier verbal that jumped)
After Columbus, Ohio power forward J.D. Weatherspoon withdrew his commitment from Xavier, Maryland was one of the first schools to offer the 6-foot-6, 200-pound junior a scholarship. According to the Columbus Dispatch, the hometown Buckeyes are now involved as well.
[Cameron] Wright’s spot in the 2010 recruiting class could be filled by 6-7 J.D. Weatherspoon of Northland, who rescinded his commitment to Xavier two weeks ago and is again being recruited by Ohio State. Coach Thad Matta was at Northland yesterday to talk to Weatherspoon’s counselors and get a copy of his academic transcript, Northland coach Satch Sullinger said — typically a precursor to a scholarship offer.
I believe we will be in the running…
April 25th, 2009 at 11:59 AM
Anybody else concerned that we might be overloading at the 2-spot (Fogg – Johnson – Lavender – Parrom – maybe Lamb)? I’m not saying we shouldn’t recruit Parrom because he looks to be a good player. I’m just wondering having too many shooting guards and wings will hurt our inside depth the next couple years. Hopefully the 2010 class will bring us at least one or two big men.
April 25th, 2009 at 12:42 PM
Javier, Thanks for the video post! Now we can all pronounce Kyryl’s name properly. He’s definitely going to be a force next year.
April 25th, 2009 at 1:17 PM
JAsonC
No i dont think that we are overloading at all. if you think about it we dont have very much depth at it because fogg starts and zane was his only true sub last year. LAvender is more of a back up point guard and parrom will most likely back up small forward behind solomon hill.
April 25th, 2009 at 3:05 PM
Hello all, and once again thank you for dedicating your time Javier for this wonderfull site.
I was just wondering if anybody here has access to the paid site “Rivals.com” which has a article on a 2010 Forward named Daniel Alexander, who has Arizona very high on his list and i was just wondring if we was going to commit soon
Thanks!
Bear down
April 25th, 2009 at 3:11 PM
BayAreaCat –
Here’s a quote from that article:
“The four-star prospect says that he will not make a decision soon and that there will be a lot of key factors in what school he will choose.
“I’m looking for the right fit,” explained Alexander. “A great coaching staff, style of play, good teammates to interact with and distance won’t really be a factor.”
__________________________________________
It appears he won’t be making a decision anytime soon. But Arizona has a very good shot if they’re interested (so it sounds like). Not to mention he use to play with Judkins, and the two of them keep in constant contact.
April 25th, 2009 at 3:15 PM
the way it looks right now, i think Alexander will hopefully be Coach Millers first recruit for the class of 2010
April 25th, 2009 at 3:27 PM
I read that Alexander and Judkins exchanged texts from time to time…not constant contact…I dunno, maybe I read it wrong. Either way, out of complete speculation, Lamb and Alexander would be a great start to the ’10 class. (Josh Smith! Josh Smith!)
April 25th, 2009 at 3:34 PM
CaliCat and DenverCat: I’ve seen pics of Alexander’s AAU coach at McKale Center wearing a UA shirt beaming next to Lute Olson. Pennell was also pictured with this coach (sorry don’t have his name right now) at the team’s Texas gymnasium. Olson and Pennell have laid the groundwork for Miller and his staff in terms of Alexander. I’d be very, very surprised if Miller does not follow through with Alexander strongly and gets a commitment, possibly before the July evaluation period. Alexander is rated high enough by Rivals.com for that to happen, even if Miller and his assistants have yet to see him play.
And one more add about Pitt and Parrom: I read an East Coast basketball blog today (I will get the link to you later) that mentions the Panthers have only one more scholarship to offer and Dixon is aggressively pursuing a 6-7 JC power forward out of Midland (Texas). So Pitt is running out of options while the UA can single out Parrom and make him know how much he is needed to add talent and depth to the Wildcats’ roster.
April 25th, 2009 at 3:36 PM
CaliCat –
I think Alexander could be a good addition, but given our lack of depth at the 5 spot, I’m hoping he goes after a center. In my opinion he should go after Adreian Payne. He’s a 5 Star Center/PF,who was recruited and offered scholarships by both Xavier and Ohio St. Archie was his recruiter at OSU, so it appears he already has a relationship with at least two of our coaches. I’m not sure who recruited him at Xavier.
I also think we should go strong after Joshua Smith. He’s a huge dominating Center, (6’10″, 270). We already offered the #1 rated Center in the 2010 class (#2 overall) a scholarship, and he is undecided.
Could you imagine if Miller & Co, were able to sign Payne, Smith, Doran Lamb/Will Barton (combo guards), and Dominque Ferguson/Anthony Brown (5 Star SFs). That would be a hell of a recruiting class to go with Hill and Natyazko (perhaps Parrom) this year. And the current roster, minus Wise. I don’t know, but that would be an amazing team. But whoever Miller goes after and gets, will be good, so I’m not too concerned. I just feel his number one focus for 2010 is adding depth at the 5 spot.
April 25th, 2009 at 4:12 PM
That link Javier is referring to is:
bebballreportpitt.blogspot.com
April 25th, 2009 at 4:49 PM
Hmmm…. Intresting development about Natyazhko that i found on a Pitt Blog.
http://bebballreportpitt.blogspot.com/2009/04/natyazhko-to-arizona.html
April 25th, 2009 at 5:03 PM
Look at the date CaliCat. Those sour grapes are over two weeks old. They might even be classified as a fine wine at this point.
April 25th, 2009 at 5:06 PM
Hmmm…. Intresting development about Natyazhko that i found on a Pitt Blog.
________________________________________________________
My guess is that Miller and staff new about this and didn’t think that it would be that much of a problem. Kyryl will be tearing it up on Lute & Bobbi Olsen court come Nov. No Worries!
On a side note, it sounds like we’ve got a really good chance at landing Parrom with Pitt running out of scholarships and playing time (something that we have plenty of). Hope he has a great time during his official visit next weekend and that the additions of Kyryl and Solomon only add to his desire to play for the Cats. Things are shaping up nicely fellas!
April 25th, 2009 at 5:07 PM
calicat-i’m pretty sure thats a dead issue, the post was two weeks ago. haven’t heard anything since that first came up,it was discussed on this blog. i’m going to say coach miller has addressed this, he doesn’t seem like a guy that misses too many details.
April 25th, 2009 at 7:01 PM
Kyryl appears to be not only big but thick and mobile with good hands and feet.
Miller & Co will be working with him on a hook, under and over (using rim as best friend) and short, turnaround jumper to go with the rim rattler he already has.
He and Jacobson should be good for each other in practice.
Listening to what he said about Miller & Co offering him instant playing time, it looks like he’ll split time at the post with “Jake”, which is good with the D the squad will be playing.
With Miller saying last week that he’ll only sign players this season that can be here and help over the next few years it looks like it’s Kyryl, S. Hill and Parrom for ’09-’10.
This talent haul combined with the returning players I believe allows the ‘Cats to compete and win.
And maybe Dance come March 2010.
The main thing to keep in mind is that talent begets talent.
As good as ’09-’10 promises to be, ’10-’11 will be that much better.
April 25th, 2009 at 7:07 PM
DenverCat – Let’s not get carried away here. Of course it would be great if we got all those guys, but here on planet earth it’s just not very likely. Not that stranger things haven’t happened.
April 25th, 2009 at 8:37 PM
Debbie Downer –
You truly are a downer. It’s called wishful thinking and speculation. And I’ll admit the line up I suggested was extremely far-fetched, but it’s fun to imagine. I’m sorry that’s the only thing you took away from that post. I would have thought (since I made mention to it twice) perhaps you would have agreed or disagreed with my belief that we should try and focus on nailing down a “big”, and add some depth to our 5 spot. I’m sure we will, but I think that needs to be one of our first two positions we should target. The other is point guard (in my opinion).
April 25th, 2009 at 9:08 PM
Aside from hoops, nice to see Dirk Koetter and the Jaguars have faith in pickng up Eben Britton with Eugene Moore on the O-Line. I can see Britton having a long career like John Fina and Glenn Parker.
Bear Down
April 25th, 2009 at 9:56 PM
Denver – I agree with your assessment on our needs. Actually, I’m surprised that the current coaching staff hasn’t made a harder push to fill a PG and C spot (esp. since famous turned us down), but admittedly, it’s slim pickings out there. My guess is that the staff is going to finish off the ’09 class with Parrom (which will be nice for overall depth, but not exactly what we need) and try to get the most out of what we have with Lavender/Fogg at backup PG while running a small and athletic lineup with Jacobson backing up Nasty Natyazhko. 2010 will be the make or break class and the one we really build the program’s foundation on. I truly hope your prognostication for that year proves to be correct, and I honestly don’t want to be a wet blanket, but we should all try to keep our expectations in check.
**trombone sound**
http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance/search/debbie+downer/video/x906pi_saturday-night-live-debbie-downer_fun
April 25th, 2009 at 10:23 PM
Javier, with Pitt, Kentucky and I believe Louisville and Indiana going the JC route for a quick fix at certain positions, one has to wonder why Miller’s not doing the same a second time, post Famous, at F, C and/or G.
Maybe Coach will still as he evaluates team talent over the next couple of weeks, huh?
But obviously, the cupboard isn’t completely bare, either, is it?
PG – Wise, Fogg, Lavender, Judkins, Z. Johnson, S. Hill, Parrom (?), *C. Adams (?) SG – Fogg, Judkins, Z. Johnson, S. Hill, Parrom (?), Shumpert (?), C. Adams (?)
SF – Horne, Z. Johnson, S. Hill, Parrom, Shumpert (?)
PF – Kyryl, Horne, S. Hill, *R. Gronk (?)
C – Jacobson, Kyryl, Horne, S. Hill, R. Gronk (?)
*Non-scholarship walk-ons getting spot relief minutes.
Which in Chase’s case (6’3″ 185 lbs, regularly dropped 20 on opponents, leading city in scoring ’07-’08) may lead to a schollie, maybe, depending…
But the more I read about this guy from Salpointe with the first and last names of recent fairly successful ‘Cat guards, the more he strikes me as the prototypical UA diamond in the rough find, polish and advance type player.
With most if not all of the PAC-10 in rebuild if not reload mode, and with the guys Arizona stands to go to battle with next winter, I say the prospects of being right there in the thick of things come March are pretty good, still.
April 25th, 2009 at 10:25 PM
Javier, with Pitt, Kentucky and I believe Louisville and Indiana going the JC route for a quick fix at certain positions, one has to wonder why Miller’s not doing the same a second time, post Famous, at F, C and/or G.
Maybe Coach will still as he evaluates team talent over the next couple of weeks, huh?
But obviously, the cupboard isn’t completely bare, either, is it?
PG – Wise, Fogg, Lavender, Judkins, Z. Johnson, S. Hill, Parrom (?),
*C. Adams (?)
SG – Fogg, Judkins, Z. Johnson, S. Hill, Parrom (?), Shumpert (?), C. Adams (?)
SF – Horne, Z. Johnson, S. Hill, Parrom, Shumpert (?)
PF – Kyryl, Horne, S. Hill, *R. Gronk (?)
C – Jacobson, Kyryl, Horne, S. Hill, R. Gronk (?)
*Non-scholarship walk-ons getting spot relief minutes.
Which in Chase’s case (6′3″ 185 lbs, regularly dropped 20 on opponents, leading city in scoring ‘07-’08) may lead to a schollie, maybe, depending…
But the more I read about this guy from Salpointe with the first and last names of recent fairly successful ‘Cat guards, the more he strikes me as the prototypical UA diamond in the rough find, polish and advance type player.
With most if not all of the PAC-10 in rebuild if not reload mode, and with the guys Arizona stands to go to battle with next winter, I say the prospects of being right there in the thick of things come March are pretty good, still.
April 26th, 2009 at 2:26 AM
Also,
Great Kerr video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDBh96Vv5Q4
April 26th, 2009 at 2:31 AM
Sorry,
I know this is thumbs down, but:
Iggie on Yao:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUNks91tlQc&feature=PlayList&p=F6D5EB9E4190A5EA&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=24
Iggie on Dampier:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUNks91tlQc&feature=PlayList&p=F6D5EB9E4190A5EA&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=24
Iggie, slam dunk contest:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6z9-l4hnMM
April 26th, 2009 at 3:25 AM
My bad,
Here is the Dampeir dunk as promised, sorry:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aC43N7U5A1g&feature=PlayList&p=F6D5EB9E4190A5EA&index=25&playnext=2&playnext_from=PL
April 26th, 2009 at 7:37 AM
Javier,
We need a UofA football site. I hate the Star and the bloggers there. With uahoopscoach.com, you have a quality Wildcat fans who appreciate our program.
Please take in consideration.
BEAR DOWN
April 26th, 2009 at 7:53 AM
According to zagsblog:
Parrom will take an official visit to Va-Tech the weekend after his UA visit. He will also take two unofficial visits, to Providence and Rhode Island.
Looks like the competition for Parrom just got a little tougher.
April 26th, 2009 at 8:47 AM
It’s fun to speculate on potential lineups and rotations for the upcoming season. Given our current roster, and potential roster (hopefully) going into next season, this is who I think will end up starting for us on opening night.
PG – Wise, Lavender, Judkins
SG – Fogg, Johnson, Parrom
SF – Hill, Parrom, Horne
PF – Horn, Hill
C – Natyazhko
This would put us at a 9 man rotation. I don’t really expect Alex Jacobsen to make his way into the regular playing rotation. Any contribution from him at the 5 spot would be nice, but I don’t think it can be counted on. Any ideas? I’d like to see what other lineups people are thinking about.
April 26th, 2009 at 8:58 AM
Dirk Koetter picked up another Wildcat- “Money” Mike Thomas is now a Jaguar along with Britton.
April 26th, 2009 at 9:07 AM
CJM, you have to stop with the Gronkowski playing hoops crap. I can’t take it anymore. The guy is going to be a top 20 pick next April and will have the March NFL combine to train for during January and February.
On top of that, why would he risk injury on the basketball court when he will be a couple months away from becoming a multi millionaire.
April 26th, 2009 at 9:20 AM
http://www.zagsblog.com/2009/04/26/parrom-to-visit-five-schools/
Parrom to Visit 5 Schools; RU Waiting on Beatty
Posted on Apr 26, 2009 11:45 am
Kevin Parrom has set his list of visits and he will be busy the next several weekends.
“I am at [the] airport on my way to Pitt,” Parrom wrote Sunday morning in a text. “Next weekend I go to Arizona. And the weekend after that I go to Va. Tech.”
He will also take unofficial visits from his South Kent (Conn.) school to Providence and Rhode Island later this week.
“Sometime this week, most likely on Thursday,” he wrote.
A 6-foot-6, 200-pound small forward ranked No. 25 at his position in the Class of 2009, Parrom recently got his release from Xavier.
He is also considering Xavier but will not take another official visit there.
Former Xavier head coach Sean Miller and assistant Book Richardson are now at Arizona, which could draw Parrom to the West Coast.
April 26th, 2009 at 9:44 AM
Javy,
What is the latest on Nic?
As more time passes with the NBA work outs, people will begin the Europe move.
Nic to Europe.
Some draft guys are saying Nic can make six digits, in Europe.
And NIC and family finds six digits as attractive.
With the economy, this money figure does look more attractive.
Nic relationship with Lucas, can also help him with Europe.
If Nic’s true dream is to play in the NBA;then, he will return to UofA.
What is your assessment?
Secondly, if Nic does leave. (and Miller have a few practices with the current roster)
Worst case situation for Miller- Nic is GONE.
What should Miller be doing RIGHT NOW?
Which PG can Arizona get?
Nic has a good relationship with Lucas.
April 26th, 2009 at 11:30 AM
http://www.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/6271764/14713260
interesting….
April 26th, 2009 at 11:38 AM
wow, folks are jumping off the sc ship like rats. just a few weeks ago they were talking final four next year, what’s floyd doing over there? ever since the UA thing, it’s been down hill, i guess if your players don’t feel any loyalty….. thank all that is good we avoided that sinking ship. BEAR DOWN!! because it’s MILLER TIME!!!
April 26th, 2009 at 11:40 AM
^Yes! do it Renardo do it ^
I would love to see that slimeball, “im to good for arizona” Floyd get another slap in the face.
April 26th, 2009 at 11:42 AM
That is quite interesting. Sidney’s potential departure would leave an enormous hole in the post for USC. It really makes me question what’s going on at SC, and what Floyd is doing. Seems like all of his players and recruits want to jump ship, with or with a life preserver.
April 26th, 2009 at 11:43 AM
-1 Vote -1 Vote +1Cool Breeze Says:
April 26th, 2009 at 7:37 am
Javier,
We need a UofA football site. I hate the Star and the bloggers there. With uahoopscoach.com, you have a quality Wildcat fans who appreciate our program.
Please take in consideration.
BEAR DOWN
______________
i’m with cool breeze, i love to follow ALL UA sports!
i’m excited for football season as well, be interested to know if there are any sites -that are well done like this one- talking about the U and the gridiron guys. it’s a good time to be a ‘CAT fan!
April 26th, 2009 at 11:44 AM
Meant with or without a life preserver
sorry
April 26th, 2009 at 12:12 PM
http://www.zagsblog.com/2009/04/26/lance-stephenson-to-the-pac-10/
This looks new. Sorry if it’s a repeat. Lance Stephenson rumor updated.
April 26th, 2009 at 12:17 PM
thx portland, i have seen that. very interesting news, i’m not sure about that guy, very talented no doubt. if coach is truly recruiting him he feels lance is a UA type guy. we shall see.
April 26th, 2009 at 12:17 PM
And the Lance Stephenson saga continues. Earlier this week we hadn’t expressed interest, today we have expressed interest. Gotta love the media, or “sources close to the situation”.
Javier – Is there any light you can shed to Portland Catfan’s post?
April 26th, 2009 at 12:23 PM
meant haven’t seen that ^
April 26th, 2009 at 12:47 PM
http://www.wildcatsportsreport.com/news/story.php?article=1504
Stephenson & Arizona a possibility?
By Erik Thompson, Basketball Editor
Posted Apr 26, 2009
Copyright © 2007 WildcatSportsReport.com
Lance Stephenson
As reported by WSR a few weeks ago, there were indications that Arizona was looking into the possibility of Lance Stephenson as an Arizona Wildcat. Now, there is a report that there could indeed be interest from both sides.
A report at Adam Zagoria’s site, Zagsblog.com, claims that a source has told him that Arizona has expressed interest in Stephenson.
When WSR looked more into this report, indications are that there is definitely a substantial amount of interest from Arizona in Stephenson – as well as there being mutual interest from Stephenson and his camp.
Stephenson is one of the top rated players remaining for the 2009 class, and has continued to put off making a decision despite numerous reports that a decision was imminent.
According to the report, Stephenson is ‘not completely happy with his current choices’ which most consider to be Kansas, St. John’s, and Maryland.
Late last week, Kansas landed Xavier Henry, another top recruit for the 2009 class, which could factor into whether Stephenson decides to no longer pursue the opportunity of becoming a Jayhawk.
Arizona figures to be a good shape with Stephenson because of Assistant Coach Emanuel ‘Book’ Richardson and his connections on the east coast – as well as Coach Richardson having coached Stephenson at the 2007 USA Basketball Men’s Youth Development Festival.
Stay tuned to WSR for more coverage on this developing story.
April 26th, 2009 at 12:48 PM
we’ll make it the stephenson hour
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_coa9WjvcYU&feature=related
April 26th, 2009 at 1:03 PM
He has such a dangerous first step, a quick release, and range for days. His highlight reel is fun to watch, and gets you excited. I know he’s been critiqued as a ball hog, but if that were truly the case, I highly doubt Miller & Co would want him, nor think he is “UA good”. Plus you can teach a kid to pass and become a more complete player. I also like how tall he is for a shooting guard, makes for tough match ups, both on the defensive and offensive ends.
April 26th, 2009 at 1:05 PM
if stephenson comes to UA, I think that will make Wise pull his name out of the draft because now he sees he has another playmaker to play with.
April 26th, 2009 at 1:08 PM
I agree ThatOneGuy. Though, I think he will continue to go through some pre-draft workouts in order to get some constructive feedback.
April 26th, 2009 at 1:11 PM
A report at Adam Zagoria’s site, Zagsblog.com, claims that a source has told him that Arizona has expressed interest in Stephenson.
When ESPN affiliate WSR looked more into this report, indications are that there is definitely a substantial amount of interest from Arizona in Stephenson – as well as there being mutual interest from Stephenson and his camp.
\
April 26th, 2009 at 1:15 PM
if the interest is truly mutual, this is would be a shocker. wonder if it would affect the parrom recruiting. miller likes those 6″4″ to 6’6” guards, but p.t. at the 2-3 would be tight. depth is great come practice time, we shall see.
April 26th, 2009 at 1:21 PM
CJM: Although Rob Gronkowski’s size would be welcome on the frontline, he is a football player, not a basketball player. Mike Stoops will never allow him to play basketball as long as he has a football scholarship. And it would not be wise for him to jeopardize a high draft spot because of a basketball injury. Tony Gonzalez attended Cal with the arrangement that he would play both sports. Gronkowski has never had that arrangement at UA. And from all indications, it appears that the UA’s center position for 2009 is set with Natyazhko and Jacobson. The UA will be fast and athletic with a smaller lineup, which is what Miller was accustomed to at Xavier anyway.
Cool Breeze: I am currently getting a feeler from a potential contributor for an all-encompassing UA site, or perhaps Pac-10 site, but it’s in the infancy stages. I will try to keep you updated. I agree that something more should be done in terms of a web site than what is currently available, including this one.
Jessie: Nic is in no rush to make a decision. After reading all the NBA draft projections, many of them, I can’t see how he could make himself available for the draft. He is projected as a late second rounder if he’s to be picked at all. So the only professional avenue he can take is Europe. He will get instant money there as you pointed out, but what will that do for his future? Will it improve it? Not necessarily. Two things can happen positively for Wise if he stays at the UA: He gets closer to earning his degree and has more opportunities to play in front of NBA scouts. His primary concern is the prospects of playing for a mediocre Arizona team, thereby affecting his output. But with the kind of energy Sean Miller has put back into the program, you can just sense that Arizona will win games next season it’s not supposed to win and Wise will have a lot to do with that. If Parrom signs with UA to join the potent Solomon Hill, that will give Wise more offensive options. Wise has told people close to the program that he is also keeping an eye on what Miller’s team will look like before making a final decison.
DenverCat: The possibility of Stephenson being interested in Arizona has always been there because of his experience with Book Richardson. Adam Zagoria does an excellent job and has a network of high school and youth league contacts around New York. I’m sure one of them has spoken to Richardson, who likely has said that Arizona is interested. How can any school not be interested in a player of his caliber (five-star player)? The question is does Arizona want him for potentially one season instead of building its way back up with Parrom?
Stephenson and Parrom are about the same size at 6-6 and 195. It would be difficult to believe that both will sign with Hill (also 6-6 and 195) already in the fold. That’s an overload at one position on the wing. The signing period lasts until May 20. Parrom has now indicated that he will visit Virginia Tech a week after visiting the UA and will also make unofficial trips to Providence and Rhode Island. If he decides to go elsewhere before May 20 and Stephenson has not signed, then I can see the UA making a serious push for Stephenson.
It all goes back to Miller’s comment Thursday: He wants players who will still be at the UA a year from now, two years now, and will play a part in what he and his staff want to do at Arizona. Which player fits that description more? Stephenson or Parrom? The only way getting Stephenson, Hill and Parrom would work is if Hill was more of a ballhandler with Stephenson on the wing.
April 26th, 2009 at 1:39 PM
Looks like the house of cards is crumbling for Tim Floyd at USC.
http://www.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/6271764/14713260
April 26th, 2009 at 1:45 PM
Javier, Stephenson is a Guard who is just big for his position (6-6)
Parrom is a wing player and I think we should defiantly try and sign him to add more depth to our frontcourt.
What im getting at here is I dont necessarily think that signing both Stephenson and Parrom would be a bad thing and we wouldn’t be overcrowding at one spot. I think they be two excellent Pickups. (although I am kinda worried about Stephenson reportedly having attitude problems)
April 26th, 2009 at 1:48 PM
If there is any chance we could land Stephenson we would have to jump on it. There is a reason teams like Kansas, Kentucky and other big name schools want him. He would drastically improve our team next year.
April 26th, 2009 at 1:52 PM
Ill wont believe stephenson has intrest in us until a major site says it
.
April 26th, 2009 at 2:20 PM
If you guys want to read a good article, read this one:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/02/sports/playmagazine/112sidney.html?_r=3&ref=playmagazine&pagewanted=all&oref=slogin
It’s a link within Parrish’s blog. In the Times article, it gives you an idea how warped the Sidneys (father and son) seem to be. Clark Francis had some telling quotes about Sidney’s attitude. The Times article also describes an Arizona Daily Wildcat story that said Sidney’s type of character would not be welcome at Arizona. Sidney read that while playing in the Cactus Classic. What does Sidney do? He shaves off his mohawk, saying that’s the reason why he was whistled for a series of technical fouls at the Cactus Classic, including many rants that were laced with profanity.
If he does indeed go to Mississippi State instead of USC he might be actually doing Floyd a favor.
April 26th, 2009 at 2:22 PM
the stephenson recruiting is primed for rumors. 5 star recruit looking for a program he fits into, enter 5 star program looking for recruits that are ‘ARIZONA good’. player doesn’t like his options, ‘zona presents itself as new option, coach book has nyc ties.
whether this means anything or not we’ll just have to wait and see, but for now a ‘feeling out’ period makes sense.
April 26th, 2009 at 3:30 PM
If Lance is showing ANY type of interest – GO AFTER HIM! I think that we could still sign Stephenson and Parrom and would be in EXCELLENT position for next year. I’m not worried in the least about p.t. for these guys. Miller’s system seems to spread the minutes pretty evenly and we could always use quality players to add depth to the team. This could also open the East Coast pipeline much quicker than we thought. Even if we sign only 1 of the 2 guys (Parrom/Stephenson) it’s still a great recruiting class, but both of them would make the class incredible!
April 26th, 2009 at 4:23 PM
if we somehow miraculously got lance, i think our team would compete for the pac-10 title next yr.
April 26th, 2009 at 5:47 PM
I think this whole Lance thing could swing both ways. (no pun intended)
The fact that Stephenson seems to be a “one-and-done” would be interesting for UA next year. He’s rated the #1 SF in 2009 for a reason. He’s a stud. Rumors(key word), have said this kid has an attitude. Whether this is true, I don’t know. …So if UA got him to somehow commit for a year that would be huge. UA would still be able to use his scholarship if he indeed did decide to enter the draft after his freshman season. Also, the Pac-10 will be pretty weak, which would benefit Stephenson ever more because of his talent. BUT Miller said himself that he wants recruits who will be around for a couple years. I guess by me rambling on, I still am undecided on the kid. Yes, it would look good for UA to pull in this caliber player in Millers first recruiting class, and will also help lure kids from the East coast…BUT if his attitude is going to be a thorn in THE TEAM, Miller and Co…then I say we stay hard on Parrom, hope that next week he will commit, and hit the ’10 class running…
April 26th, 2009 at 5:57 PM
If I had a choice between Parrom for 3 or 4 years or Stephenson for 1, I take a player like Parrom. Is he a small forward or a shooting guard? Some sites have it both ways.
If Miller and company sign him then I have full confidence that they did the right thing and they believe they can make it work line up and chemistry wise. Still do not undersatnd the infatuation with “one and dones”, and who cares what the national media would think, what do they know, if they were so smart why aren’t they earning a seven figure income with a top program or in the NBA?
April 26th, 2009 at 6:06 PM
Poppa I agree with you but what I was saying is I think Parrom will commit to UA. Just from the fact he had Mack as his next coach who recruited him all along, and still he wanted out. Last tuesday Miller and Book meant with Parrom, and then in Millers press conference he hinted about signing one more player. (hint, hint) BUT IF…!…UA were able to sign Lance also, and IF he is as good as they say he is, then why not use up another scholly if he is going to be a one-and-done?
April 26th, 2009 at 6:20 PM
i agree with tom’s assertion that a one-and-done this season might not be a bad idea. typically, i would say let them go elsewhere, but if he can be a bridge from rebuilding to the future and not tie up a schollie for more than a season, then it may turn out to be worth it. i belive in “the system” and am absolutely supportive of whatever way coach goes with guys like this, but the more i think about it the more i am thinking it would be harmless until we get completely back on our feet.
anyone see a glaring hole in that logic (i’m not utterly convinced)?
April 26th, 2009 at 6:29 PM
Tom – I understand your point and it is very valid. Unfortunately I think we are weak at the shooting guard position if this is where he can play, at 6-5 could he play that position at SF as a pro or would he be more valuable as a SG?
Miller and company may use this as a one time exception becuase of the circumstances. Is Parrom ready to step in and start? I really wouldn’t know becuase these guys know how to asses talent we’re just reading press clippings and assuming.
April 26th, 2009 at 6:43 PM
We need players…go for both and take whomever signs first. Hopefully the Cats can somehow get both.
April 26th, 2009 at 6:44 PM
Javier,
What schools do you think it is down to for Parrom and Lance?
April 26th, 2009 at 7:06 PM
Javy,
I gave you my comments about Lance-A-Lot, yesterday or the day before.
Know it is all over the east and spreaading west.
It will be national tomorrow.
Check it out.
You had the FIRST comments and indications of Lance-A-Lot.
Congradulations.
The First forum post was at wildcatsports
http://www.wildcatsportsreport.com/forums/showthread.php?t=6411
.
April 26th, 2009 at 7:07 PM
And this news will get BIG realy quick.
It is about USC and MoMo.
WHAT is going on with USC?
I knew USC did NOT have scholarship to offer.
But, still got MoMo.
(I do not know how…but, he decide to come to LA land.)
Does MoMo really have a scholarship ?
Because MoMo is East coast, he does not know the inside NEWS.
Things are getting strange at USC- let me tell you.
Red Flag for the NY boyz:
S.Hill was a 09 recruit which left USC about one month ago.
Yesterday, Sid is leaving also.
That is two 09 recruits leaving USC within 3 weeks.
What is going on?
The internal news from USC is NCAA sanction related?
Someone has INTERNAL news on USC and the big recruits are LEAVING – LEAVING fast.
Is MoMo the third STRIKE to leave?
http://www.wildcatsportsreport.com/forums/showthread.php?t=6306&page=4
April 26th, 2009 at 7:15 PM
any chance of pasting some of the info from these links?
Does MoMo reconsider AZ if he is out as SC?
On the Stephenson/Parrom debate, remember that Johnson is out…
April 26th, 2009 at 7:22 PM
AZ Cat:…the forum is free. You may want to just sign up.
(go to free forum Hoops 101)
On USC:
Both of the top recruits for USC which left – S.Hill and Sid- never sign LOI.
MoMo mother has signed the LOI. The signature is hard to read.
Maybe MaMa of MoMo did not sign it properly?
But, folks in the East are not happy with what is happening at USC.
East coast folks are thinking that something is really wrong.
So, they are attempting to get out of the USC commit for MoMo.
Does signing under distress /misleading info. invalidate the LOI?
Oak Hill coach, Smith, is seeing what he can do for MoMo.
.
April 26th, 2009 at 7:23 PM
Jessie – MoMo signed a LOI already. USC would have to release MoMo from the LOI before he considers another school, and like Gaddy/Washington, I’m sure Floyd will NOT let MoMo out of the LOI to come to AZ… especially not Floyd!
April 26th, 2009 at 7:25 PM
… A signature hard to read is still binding. And there is no proof of distress. Misleading info might be a different story…
But you were not right on Famous or MoMo in the past, so I don’t know if you have any credible sources, or if you are just guessing a best case scenario for the Cats.
April 26th, 2009 at 7:47 PM
+2 jake Says:
April 26th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
…”you were not right on Famous or MoMo in the past, so I don’t know if you have any credible sources”
———————————————————————————————-
jessie is just reposting rumors and garbage from other forums…he speaks like he has inside sources, but actually knows nothing.
i’m all for optimism, but not running with all of these bogus “stories” is why this site is different and better.
jessie, please back up your “info” with something more than rumors from other booger-eaters making crap up in their mother’s basements
April 26th, 2009 at 8:21 PM
Bmac: The biggest disadvantage UA has in the Parrom sweepstakes is its distance from his Bronx home. But in this day and age a young man should welcome the opportunity to mature away from home. Stoglin at Santa Rita is taking on that approach by leaving Tucson for Maryland, for example. I believe Richardson gives the UA the edge over Pitt and Virginia Tech. It will come down to those three schools. As I posted yesterday, if Parrom wants playing time he should go to Va. Tech. If he wants to blossom in a born-again program like Arizona, with Richardson by his side, than he should pick the Cats. Pitt’s Elite Eight appearance and Dixon entices Parrom. I believe Miller has as much to offer in coaching and producing talent as Dixon, if you look at their overall career (both have been to the Elite Eight, for example).
April 26th, 2009 at 8:24 PM
Hello,
uahoopscoach.com – da best. Keep it going!
April 26th, 2009 at 8:32 PM
Jessie: Haven’t heard anything about Jones wanting out of his LOI. Nothing changed as far as his story with USC. He still looks at playing time as the best situation for choosing the Trojans, regardless if Renardo Sidney attends Mississippi State instead. If he does want out of his LOI, how comfortable would UA be getting him? That would mean he would back out of two verbal commitments (Louisville and Va. Tech) and an LOI with USC. That’s not a good trend at all.
April 26th, 2009 at 8:44 PM
Thankyou Javier!
April 26th, 2009 at 8:50 PM
I say forget momo, renardo, tim floyd, and usc–who cares! focus on parrom and lance (if that has potential), and then, move on to 2010/11 recruits.
April 26th, 2009 at 9:07 PM
Thank you GlenStef. We intend to. Keep posting.