Dekker announces he is leaving - Per ESPN

[BallBoy]

SAM DEKKER ENTERING NBA DRAFT
The junior is being tabbed as a potential lottery pick after a strong NCAA tournament. He said: "I love the school and am so grateful for everything, but I think this is the right decision for me as a player and as a person."

[Wojo Era]

How long until Bo says he isn't allowed to leave until he talks to him, and has no idea how this works? 

[Mu2323]

How long until Bo says he isn't allowed to leave until he talks to him, and has no idea how this works? 

Seems to be some butt hurt on this board.

[NotAnAlum]

FINALLY Bo loses a guy early.  (last one was Devin H I believe) I was sure Bo would find some way to avoid what happens at every other D-1 program and get Dekker to stay for his senior year.  Badgers will still be go next year but this certainly brings them back to earth.

[Frenns Liquor Depot]

How is this not just awesome for UW -- especially if he is successful -- wouldn't that just help recruiting?

Talk about the worst of the worst.  Stay 5 years, don't make the NBA & don't get a degree.

[Windyplayer]

From afar, Dekker's trajectory at UW seems pretty similar to Blue's...Failed to live up to expectations (perhaps unrealistic) coming out of high school for the first couple of years at the college level, start to show that you figured out a few things your junior year, and then explode in the NCAA Tourney that same year, and then bolt for the draft thereafter.

[WarriorInNYC]

From afar, Dekker's trajectory at UW seems pretty similar to Blue's...Failed to live up to expectations (perhaps unrealistic) coming out of high school for the first couple of years at the college level, start to show that you figured out a few things your junior year, and then explode in the NCAA Tourney that same year, and then bolt for the draft thereafter.

True, the trajectory is the same, but I'm sure the draft results will be widely different

[JakeBarnes]

From afar, Dekker's trajectory at UW seems pretty similar to Blue's...Failed to live up to expectations (perhaps unrealistic) coming out of high school for the first couple of years at the college level, start to show that you figured out a few things your junior year, and then explode in the NCAA Tourney that same year, and then bolt for the draft thereafter.

The difference being that Dekker was on the 20-30 range on most boards before the tourney and now moved into the top 20. Vander wasn't on anyone's boards for the year he came out...only on the one after that as mid-2nd rounder.

[CTWarrior]

From afar, Dekker's trajectory at UW seems pretty similar to Blue's...Failed to live up to expectations (perhaps unrealistic) coming out of high school for the first couple of years at the college level, start to show that you figured out a few things your junior year, and then explode in the NCAA Tourney that same year, and then bolt for the draft thereafter.

Big difference is that Dekker will be a first round pick.  He was a standup guy after the championship game and is a heckuva player.  If he gets that jump shot to be consistent (no reason to think he won't) he should have a nice career in the NBA.

As much as you may not like Wisconsin or their coach or fans, I personally don't find much to dislike about Kaminsky, Dekker or Hayes.  All good players.

[BM1090]

Big difference is that Dekker will be a first round pick.  He was a standup guy after the championship game and is a heckuva player.  If he gets that jump shot to be consistent (no reason to think he won't) he should have a nice career in the NBA.

As much as you may not like Wisconsin or their coach or fans, I personally don't find much to dislike about Kaminsky, Dekker or Hayes.  All good players.

I think there is everything to dislike about Kaminsky. Don't have an issue with Dekker or Hayes.

[NickelDimer]

I think there is everything to dislike about Kaminsky. Don't have an issue with Dekker or Hayes.

Agreed on all three. Kaminsky is incredibly unlikable. I thought watching Dekker was like watching Keith Van Horn on his tourney run with Utah. He has a very fun skill set to watch

[chapman]

How long until Bo says he isn't allowed to leave until he talks to him, and has no idea how this works? 

FINALLY Bo loses a guy early.  (last one was Devin H I believe) I was sure Bo would find some way to avoid what happens at every other D-1 program and get Dekker to stay for his senior year.  Badgers will still be go next year but this certainly brings them back to earth.

Maybe only a couple illogical stays in his time, but I'm glad I'm not the only conspiracy theorist who thinks it possible Bo casts players off on their own if they're considering leaving him early.

[Coleman]

I think there is everything to dislike about Kaminsky. Don't have an issue with Dekker or Hayes.

+1

Dekker and Hayes seem like good dudes.

Kaminisky is as bad as Koenig in likeability.

[wadesworld]

Agreed on all three. Kaminsky is incredibly unlikable. I thought watching Dekker was like watching Keith Van Horn on his tourney run with Utah. He has a very fun skill set to watch

Good player, but thinks he's tougher than he is.  The stair downs he tries make him look ridiculous.  The pointing at his muscles when there's really nothing there, especially compared to most division 1 college basketball players, was absolutely hysterical.

I like Hayes's game, especially if he stops taking notes from Kaminsky and keeps his a$$ in the paint rather than floating around on the perimeter like he did in the NCAAs.

[NickelDimer]

Good player, but thinks he's tougher than he is.  The stair downs he tries make him look ridiculous.  The pointing at his muscles when there's really nothing there, especially compared to most division 1 college basketball players, was absolutely hysterical.

I like Hayes's game, especially if he stops taking notes from Kaminsky and keeps his a$$ in the paint rather than floating around on the perimeter like he did in the NCAAs.

I did laugh at the pointing of what was supposed to be a bicep. As for Hayes I think if they had run more offense through him in the second half they'd be Nat Champs

[BM1090]

Good player, but thinks he's tougher than he is.  The stair downs he tries make him look ridiculous.  The pointing at his muscles when there's really nothing there, especially compared to most division 1 college basketball players, was absolutely hysterical.

I like Hayes's game, especially if he stops taking notes from Kaminsky and keeps his a$$ in the paint rather than floating around on the perimeter like he did in the NCAAs.

He's most effective in the wide post but he's a 38% 3P shooter. It's not like he is ineffective out there.

[wadesworld]

He's most effective in the wide post but he's a 38% 3P shooter. It's not like he is ineffective out there.

I don't mind him taking the 3 point shot at all.  But throughout the regular season he took that shot in rhythm just as a catch and shoot, good shot within the offense, kind of like Lazar used to at MU.  Come NCAA Tourney time, he'd take a few dribbles, pick the ball up, think about it, and then throw up a brick.

[Tugg Speedman]

How long until Bo says he isn't allowed to leave until he talks to him, and has no idea how this works? 

Does this make Dekker a rent-a-player?

Also, has Hayes announced what his plans are for next year?

[Groin_pull]

Smart move. Stock will never be higher than it is now. Hope he does well. Seems like a good guy.

On the flip side, wouldn't mind seeing Kaminsky sink.

[PuertoRicanNightmare]

I think there is everything to dislike about Kaminsky. Don't have an issue with Dekker or Hayes.

I disagree whole heartedly. There is something about Dekker that rubs me the wrong way. I don't know if it's an attitude thing or if he's kind of a selfish player or what. There's no doubt he's a very good player and I liked this Badger team, but I wouldn't be happy if the Bulls drafted him.

[avid1010]

my gut tells me he won't stick in the nba unless he can develop into a lights-out 3 point shooter.  i know there was a lot of talk that he handled himself well against labron, but looking at the kid, i don't see the nba body needed to be a slasher/finisher.

that said, if you're a first rounder you should leave...and i don't think he was too happy with how bo was handling and/or helping him. 

[PBRme]

How long until Bo says he isn't allowed to leave until he talks to him, and has no idea how this works? 

Bo announced he cannot play for any of the teams in the NBA Western division and plans on going on ESPN tomorrow to complain about how hard he works and the effort it takes to be Madison Coach

[jsglow]

Brace yourself guys.  My bet is that either Frank or Sam will be sportin' the Bucks logo.  Then I'll really have to go all in for the Bulls.  But that's a problem too because I like Jabari and can't stand Rose.  Oh the agony.   

[AlumKCof93]

My sources indicate Dekker is not turning Pro.  He is lulling Bo to sleep and transferring to Iowa.

I am surprised to see the dislike for Kaminsky.  Yes, he whined to the officials and had obvious flops, but thats not unique to him and he really made himself into a heck of a player despite not great athleticism.

Dekker won me when he told Kaminsky during the AZ game to stop complaining to the officials when he didn't get a call.  It was great.

[Galway Eagle]

Brace yourself guys.  My bet is that either Frank or Sam will be sportin' the Bucks logo.  Then I'll really have to go all in for the Bulls.  But that's a problem too because I like Jabari and can't stand Rose.  Oh the agony.   

Then what are your feelings toward Simeon? Especially with STJ transferring

[OnWisconsin]

Good player, but thinks he's tougher than he is.  The stair downs he tries make him look ridiculous.  The pointing at his muscles when there's really nothing there, especially compared to most division 1 college basketball players, was absolutely hysterical.

Yeah, this definitely makes him one of the true bad guys in college hoops. Wooden Award winners should never show any emotion.

[Silkk the Shaka]

I think there is everything to dislike about Kaminsky. Don't have an issue with Dekker or Hayes.

I was neutral on the guy 'til the Oregon game when he flexed at the crowd following a garbage time putback layup over a guy a foot and a half shorter than him. Looked like a COMPLETE loser.

[Groin_pull]

I was neutral on the guy 'til the Oregon game when he flexed at the crowd following a garbage time putback layup over a guy a foot and a half shorter than him. Looked like a COMPLETE loser.

He better be careful about pulling that garbage in the NBA. 

[brandx]

People here supported Mayo, but have a problem with Dekker or Kaminsky's attitude?

That's pretty funny.

Personally, I hate guys who always play hard and make it known that they want to win.

[BM1090]

People here supported Mayo, but have a problem with Dekker or Kaminsky's attitude?

That's pretty funny.

Personally, I hate guys who always play hard and make it known that they want to win.

Everyone here knew Todd had issues. We cheered for him because he was on our team. That's it.

[swoopem]

People here supported Mayo, but have a problem with Dekker or Kaminsky's attitude?

That's pretty funny.

Personally, I hate guys who always play hard and make it known that they want to win.

Dekker always plays hard? News to me. It seemed like he disappeared all the time before the tournament run.

[ChicosBailBonds]

SAM DEKKER ENTERING NBA DRAFT
The junior is being tabbed as a potential lottery pick after a strong NCAA tournament. He said: "I love the school and am so grateful for everything, but I think this is the right decision for me as a player and as a person."

The exploitation of the NCAA tournament moved him up in the draft considerably.  He should have to pay that increased amount of money to someone....anyone....for the exploitation.

[Groin_pull]

The exploitation of the NCAA tournament moved him up in the draft considerably.  He should have to pay that increased amount of money to someone....anyone....for the exploitation.

Wow. You really enjoy beating a dead horse, huh?

[Avenue Commons]

Dekker will be a better pro than Kaminsky. And I like Kaminsky a lot. But I think Dekker can create more matchup problems than Kaminsky can.

[Juan Anderson's Mixtape]

The exploitation of the NCAA tournament moved him up in the draft considerably.  He should have to pay that increased amount of money to someone....anyone....for the exploitation.

Please tell us what declaring for the NBA can tell us about Dekker's penis size.

[BrewCity83]

Also, has Hayes announced what his plans are for next year?

Hayes said in Monday's postgame locker room that's he's staying.  In response to a question about his plans for next year, he said something like "you saw the game...I'm not anywhere near ready for the next level."

[wadesworld]

Yeah, this definitely makes him one of the true bad guys in college hoops. Wooden Award winners should never show any emotion.

Might want to reread and see who is being talked about.

But again, another of our little brothers.  Congrats on your back to back Final Fours.  You had a great 2 year run here.  Please go and celebrate it.  You have the approval of your big brother Marquette.  Stop wasting your time worrying about what we think, and go enjoy what you just saw the last 2 years.

[brandx]

Wow. You really enjoy beating a dead horse, huh?

I think that horse decomposed a long, long time ago

[CTWarrior]

+1

Dekker and Hayes seem like good dudes.

Kaminisky is as bad as Koenig in likeability.

I don't blame Kaminsky for in-game moaning.  As Mr. Miyagi said, "...only bad teacher. Teacher say, student do."  Kaminsky seems like a regular goofy college kid in interviews, etc. and has improved a lot through hard work.  I have no problem with the kid.

[wadesworld]

Yeah, this definitely makes him one of the true bad guys in college hoops. Wooden Award winners should never show any emotion.

By the way, since you brought up the Wooden Award winner, will this one actually graduate after spending 4 years in college?  And will he be able to find any balls to rub in the pros while wearing a camera on his chest like he did in college?

[ChicosBailBonds]

Everyone here knew Todd had issues. We cheered for him because he was on our team. That's it.

Honestly, tough to cheer for him because of the issues even though he was on the team.  Just calling it like it is

[Silkk the Shaka]

Honestly, tough to cheer for him because of the issues even though he was on the team.  Just calling it like it is

Hot take. So brave.

[Spotcheck Billy]

surprising that so many Badger fans posted negative comments towards Dekker in the JSonline article of this story


well maybe not so surprising...

[brewcity77]

surprising that so many Badger fans posted negative comments towards Dekker in the JSonline article of this story


well maybe not so surprising...

What surprises me is they are acting like it's a shock. Dekker leaving has been a foregone conclusion for months. I can understand some optimistic fans hoping against hope, but that was like those of us hoping Wade would come back for his senior year.

[wadesworld]

It'd be quite ironic if Dekker had graduated in 3 years.

[brewcity77]

It'd be quite ironic if Dekker had graduated in 3 years.

Considering Bo can't graduate most guys in 5 years, that would have been a remarkable accomplishment!

[larrym]

I think one of the articles from Anonymous Eagle mentioned that Dekker's major is still "Undecided" on the official web site.  If that's accurate, he probably won't graduate in 3 years.

Considering Bo can't graduate most guys in 5 years, that would have been a remarkable accomplishment!

[chapman]

They should build out Clap for Credit as a full major.  Golf clap, single hand clap, clap on/clap off light management.

[Silkk the Shaka]

They should build out Clap for Credit as a full major.  Golf clap, single hand clap, clap on/clap off light management.

Crean to UW?

[MU82]

Hayes said in Monday's postgame locker room that's he's staying.  In response to a question about his plans for next year, he said something like "you saw the game...I'm not anywhere near ready for the next level."

Jason Richardson said the exact same thing after Michigan State lost to Arizona in the 2001 Final Four. Within days, he changed his mind. Then again, Richardson was a sure lottery pick where Hayes is not. And I have no reason to doubt Hayes was telling the truth. Just stating the obvious: Sometimes what these guys say in the heat of the moment isn't necessarily what ends up being true.

[ChicosBailBonds]

Please tell us what declaring for the NBA can tell us about Dekker's penis size.

That's Sultan's area, he likes talking about penis size.   Brandx can then do the diagnosis on the  penis.

[ChicosBailBonds]

They should build out Clap for Credit as a full major.  Golf clap, single hand clap, clap on/clap off light management.

How about just The Clap?

[ecompt]

Honestly, tough to cheer for him because of the issues even though he was on the team.  Just calling it like it is

I think I cheered for Mayo only once while he was MU, when he hit a bomb of a 3-pointer in a BE game. I didn't like him from the moment he stepped ion to campus; I don't know why, I just did. I was VERY glad he left last summer..

[ChicosBailBonds]

I think I cheered for Mayo only once while he was MU, when he hit a bomb of a 3-pointer in a BE game. I didn't like him from the moment he stepped ion to campus; I don't know why, I just did. I was VERY glad he left last summer..

I wasn't happy when I heard we were recruiting him.....I'll leave it at that.

[🏀]

Dekker is the only Badger I've liked since they turned into the heel for me in 2004.

He will be a much better player than Frank and probably drafted before him. I'll even say I'd rather have Dekker than Doug McBuckets on the Bulls.

Dekker clearly was being hindered by the Swing. I've heard Dekker and Bo did not get along after the Association began sniffing around last year.  After that his utilization dropped big time and Frank was the focal point. Once the tournament started, they knew Frank wasn't couldn't win the tournament, so Sam took over.

[Stronghold]

My favorite quote from the comments of the article.

"Sam--I doubt you'll get a chance to read this, but since what I have to say takes than 140 characters to say, I'm going to try anyway. First, as a fellow UW-alum, thank you for staying at home and staying at home as long as you did. Second: a request. As Jay Bilas and many others observed, the closest thing to NBA basketball was played by the Wisconsin Badgers in the semi-final against Kentucky. Henry Ellenson, Kevin Looney, JP Totoko, Diamond Stone; they all should be Badgers today. Please use the example of your experience to convince more of our boys (I'm over 50) to stay home!"

He got 2 of the 4 names spelled correctly.  Surprising to think about the great talent in those 4 players coming out of Wisconsin.

[ChitownSpaceForRent]

Now that he's gone I'll say that I did like Dekker. He just shut his mouth and played unlike a lot of his teammates. He's going to be a much better pro than college player. Bo's system hurt him. If he went to a team like Arizona, no way he stays 3 years.

[77ncaachamps]

An aside...

Let's look at that "rich" Wisconsin history that may change when Kaminsky and possibly Dekker get drafted.

http://www.uwbadgers.com/sports/m-baskbl/Badgers-in-the-NBA.html

[boyonthedock]

Devin Harris as the most accomplished alum is not a particularly tough bar to overcome.