JacobPadilla wrote:It's not like Mason is a 5-star one-and-done prospect. Isn't everyone on this board freaking out about having to be so young next year and begging for transfers? What's the problem with bringing in a grad transfer at that position to give Mason the time to develop at his own pace? He'll still get a chance to play a quality role if he's ready for it.
Speaking for myself, I have no problem bringing in another 4. We do have 4 scholarships open and much rather we give them to guys that could actually contribute in meaningful games than the walkons.
I'm just a little perplexed, though, since we've got Mason and Modestas, plus AoC and Antwann could probably do alright in a pinch. For me, the bigger need is at the wing, hence I postulated that we might see him as a 2/3 in addition to maybe backing up Mason if Modestas isn't ready.
I'm also of the opinion that Mason could be good enough to come in and not just contribute immediately, but start immediately. I'm not sure we've ever had anyone like him on our team (no, I won't say Doug because Mason is longer and more athletic, no disrespect to Doug, of course).
Mac's job is to put together the best team he can. He can't not take a good player who wants to come to Creighton because Modestas Kancleris is on the roster, and that would be the case even without him coming off a torn ACL.
Well, yes.
Don't underestimate Division II players, especially ones at a program like NWMSU. The best D-IIs would likely be able to beat a lot of low-major or low-end mid0major schools. Northwest Missouri State played two exhibition games against Duke during Hawkins' career.
As a freshman, they got blown out, but he scored 14 points on 5-7 FG (4-6 3FG) with 3 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 turnover and 1 steal in 14 minutes off the bench.
As a junior, the Bearcats gave the Blue Devils a scare, losing 69-63. Ryan had a tough shooting game (6-18 FG, 4-12 3FG) but was still second on the team with 16 points and added 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 turnovers and 1 steal while playing all 40 minutes.
FWIW, O'Connell was a combined 1-8 from the field for 2 points in 26 minutes in those two games.
I don't think anyone is underestimating him, but our D-II transfer history recently is limited to one Manny Suarez. Could Ryan be as good as Max Strus? Absolutely! I hope he is (especially if he commits)