Not sure he brings anything to the table, teams have taken away is 3, which means he brings nothing to the table. And some of you want him to start at the center next year? He can go back to Australia with Harry Froling!
Quote from: BCHoopster on January 10, 2024, 10:25:11 PM
Not sure he brings anything to the table, teams have taken away is 3, which means he brings nothing to the table. And some of you want him to start at the center next year? He can go back to Australia with Harry Froling!
Can someone go "back to" a place they potentially have never been? And are definitely not from?
You might need a world map
Quote from: BCHoopster on January 10, 2024, 10:25:11 PM
Not sure he brings anything to the table, teams have taken away is 3, which means he brings nothing to the table. And some of you want him to start at the center next year? He can go back to Australia with Harry Froling!
Um, he is a Kiwi....
Quote from: BCHoopster on January 10, 2024, 10:25:11 PM
Not sure he brings anything to the table, teams have taken away is 3, which means he brings nothing to the table. And some of you want him to start at the center next year? He can go back to Australia with Harry Froling!
dumb topic.. the guards are playing like crap
Quote from: jfp61 on January 10, 2024, 10:28:23 PM
dumb topic.. the guards are playing like crap
Very dumb topic. Gold is okay. Not many 6'11" guys can guard 5 positions and we've been spoiled with Oso in that sense and our defensive scheme requires Gold to have to frequently defend 1's and 2's. Kid has a lot of talent, but like pretty much everyone on the team at the moment, he is also struggling some with his shooting..and defense.
BC has decided Gold is a whipping boy and that is fine. I wish Ben Gold was the biggest problem at the moment. Stupid post thread after this performance. At least he did not mention how bad they will be next year with Gold playing the 5 and freshmen that have shown him nothing.
Definitely not a Gold fan but we're going to need him to pick it up.
Whatever he can give us offensively would be a gift, I just hope he doesn't dig us too big a hole on D.
He just looks way too slow, way too one dimensional on offense, so when he can't shoot he's effectively a negative on the court.
Not sure why, because we've seen him blow by guys on a head fake drive and make some super athletic plays at the rim in the past.
I was hoping that with everyone else struggling he would provide some spark but I've gotta admit there were plenty of times tonight when I thought he looked like he didn't belong.
Hopefully we didn't completely over value him.
Good thing is he loves to shoot, so he can microwave give this team a lift out of nowhere in some games if they start to drop because he always seems to find himself open enough to shoot the 3.
Doctor
Do you really think Ben Gold is why they lost tonight? Plenty of things, players to bash but this is a foolish thread, imo.
Quote from: Goose on January 10, 2024, 10:44:47 PM
Doctor
Do you really think Ben Gold is why they lost tonight? Plenty of things, players to bash but this is a foolish thread, imo.
No, it starts with the 2 guards, need something from the bench, Zaide gave you 7 points tonight, looked like he belongs, needed more PT time, like Ben to give MU something on the offensive end that's it
Picking on Ben Gold right now is really missing the mark. There are a few key pieces that drive this team. If the team is underperforming, they should be the ones taking criticism, not Ben Gold.
Imagine thinking Ben Gold is the problem and not the All-American playing like complete garbage.
Gold was great on the boards tonight and I thought was fine defensively. He missed his threes (though he had one erased by a soft foul off the pass).
Gold missed most of the offseason with injury. I think with a full offseason and a year of Caedin Hamilton pounding on him, he could end up being a serviceable starting center.
I do wish he would head fake more and drive. I feel like he has the opportunity at least once a game but rarely takes advantage.
Funny some say he's the best nba prospect on the team
Quote from: Goose on January 10, 2024, 10:44:47 PM
Doctor
Do you really think Ben Gold is why they lost tonight? Plenty of things, players to bash but this is a foolish thread, imo.
Nah, he pretty much had little to do with the loss but that's part of the problem...
If he's on the court 20 minutes and everyone is playing like manure you'd hope he would take some more initiative on the offensive end, that's the end he's mainly on the court for.
All I'm saying is that many of us, myself included, have had high hopes for his MU career but lately he's seemed more likely to not fit in at the BE level than he has to be a significant BE contributor.
I'm pretty concerned with his lack of speed or appearance of lack of speed, especially for a kid that's shown he's got sneaky burst to him in the past
You disagree?
Good news is that he will get more minutes so he has a chance to quickly turn it around, like almost everyone else on the team.
Johnny B
I have said countless times that I thought Ben Gold was the best NBA prospect on the team. Never have I said he was the best player, would be the best player or be the important player on the team. Similarly, I stated Omax was a future NBA player 6-7 games into his career at MU. Big difference between being a NBA prospect and best player or most important player on a college team.
They will play their way out of this shooting slump and overall malaise. Bigger concern should be how long will Chase Ross and Aaron Jones be out.
Quote from: Dickthedribbler on January 10, 2024, 11:48:34 PM
how long will Chase Ross and Aaron Jones be out.
Aaron is back! For now...
Hope Aaron Jones is healthy for Sundays game!
Quote from: Goose on January 10, 2024, 11:12:32 PM
Johnny B
I have said countless times that I thought Ben Gold was the best NBA prospect on the team. Never have I said he was the best player, would be the best player or be the important player on the team. Similarly, I stated Omax was a future NBA player 6-7 games into his career at MU. Big difference between being a NBA prospect and best player or most important player on a college team.
Understood what you said just don't agree. Hope I'm wrong
Quote from: Johnny B on January 10, 2024, 11:00:59 PM
Funny some say he's the best nba prospect on the team
Nobody is an NBA prospect
Quote from: Elonsmusk on January 10, 2024, 10:32:41 PM
Very dumb topic. Gold is okay. Not many 6'11" guys can guard 5 positions and we've been spoiled with Oso in that sense and our defensive scheme requires Gold to have to frequently defend 1's and 2's. Kid has a lot of talent, but like pretty much everyone on the team at the moment, he is also struggling some with his shooting..and defense.
I guess I don't see the talent. If Ben is 6'6" he's not a D-1 player. Too slow. Easily pushed around. To this point, I feel like Shaka missed on Gold, and over projected on Jop as a starter. Maybe it all turns for the good starting on Monday afternoon.
Quote from: Dickthedribbler on January 10, 2024, 11:48:34 PM
They will play their way out of this shooting slump and overall malaise. Bigger concern should be how long will Chase Ross and Aaron Jones be out.
My expectation today is that Sean is likely out for the season and a question mark for the start of next season. When the immediate prognosis is "serious knee injury" it almost always is confirmed as a torn ACL by MRI.
With Ross I read the report as meaning that they they will be deciding in a few weeks if he can gut out the rest of the season or undergo season ending shoulder surgery.
The bottom line is that Lowery and Norman are going to be forced into action and how well they perform is going to determine if MU makes the NCAA tournament.
Quote from: wisblue on January 11, 2024, 06:05:50 AM
My expectation today is that Sean is likely out for the season and a question mark for the start of next season. When the immediate prognosis is "serious knee injury" it almost always is confirmed as a torn ACL by MRI.
With Ross I read the report as meaning that they they will be deciding in a few weeks if he can gut out the rest of the season or undergo season ending shoulder surgery.
The bottom line is that Lowery and Norman are going to be forced into action and how well they perform is going to determine if MU makes the NCAA tournament.
I would say Tyko and Kam's performances will determine our fate.
Gold can guard five positions? Which five positions are those?
Quote from: franklinjerry on January 11, 2024, 07:02:30 AM
Gold can guard five positions? Which five positions are those?
You misread what Elon said. He said we are spoiled with Oso's ability to guard five positions.
That being said, Ben's defense...no bueno.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on January 10, 2024, 10:32:41 PM
Very dumb topic. Gold is okay. Not many 6'11" guys can guard 5 positions...
But usually, they can guard somebody at some position!
Bens fist shot was a hesitant fadeaway three pointer that clanked off the front rim. I think when he does that (fadeaway), Shaka needs to send a gentle reminder from the sidelines or the next time he rotates out that if he does it again he will be taken out.
Shoot with confidence Ben! Don't fadeaway! Don't double clutch on open shots! Your skill set is needed!
Quote from: Newsdreams on January 12, 2024, 12:16:21 PM
Willard don't know ball
He doesn't even hang his Warriors pennant in his living room
Quote from: Uncle Rico on January 12, 2024, 01:08:47 PM
He doesn't even hang his Warriors pennant in his living room
SAD
Ben Gold has been a disappointment so far this season.
His disappointing season has little to do with the team's recent underachieving ways.
Are both of those not true?
The OP saying Gold should go back to Australia was precious, though. Next: "If Kolek doesn't turn things around, he should go back to Zimbabwe!"
Ben Gold is the only player on the team shooting a higher percentage from three this season than last season.
Quote from: brewcity77 on January 12, 2024, 04:45:13 PM
Ben Gold is the only player on the team shooting a higher percentage from three this season than last season.
Gold's last three made was on 12/22/23 against a dog crap Georgetown team.
He's played three games since and is 0 for 7, but of course he is not the only player missing. Not as much as the core starters, but going to need him do alot better in upcoming games.
Quote from: nyg on January 12, 2024, 05:07:11 PM
Gold's last three made was on 12/22/23 against a dog crap Georgetown team.
He's played three games since and is 0 for 7, but of course he is not the only player missing. Not as much as the core starters, but going to need him do alot better in upcoming games.
Quite a few posters here were singing his praises in the offseason, deeming him as MU's most likely prospect to make the NBA.
Quote from: Markusquette on January 12, 2024, 05:35:50 PM
Quite a few posters here were singing his praises in the offseason, deeming him as MU's most likely prospect to make the NBA.
Some where hoping and dreaming, he still has a chance in maybe 3 years!
Think we have to use Ben in different ways .... Not just tagged as our big, launching threes. We need to see him drive and stuff, look for inside passes, back door cuts etc. Which might net him some rebounds too.
Chase and Ben had the most hype of "the others" coming into the season.
Saying that either has met expectations according to that hype would be wild.
Maybe the expectations were too hopeful?
Maybe the will get closer to them in the 2H of the season, now that both will be needed even more.
Considering what Gold has shown to this point, why not give Amadou more than a minute in garbage time for a dunk? Not redshirting, but doesn't offer enough to play 5-8 minutes of high energy defense/harassment? Maybe grab a board or two? Cut-n-slash to the rim? Doesn't really take talent to do any of that. He seemingly has the athleticism. Oso, Jop, Gold and a few minutes from Al. All hands on deck!!
Quote from: Viper on January 12, 2024, 08:08:37 PM
Considering what Gold has shown to this point, why not give Amadou more than a minute in garbage time for a dunk? Not redshirting, but doesn't offer enough to play 5-8 minutes of high energy defense/harassment? Maybe grab a board or two? Cut-n-slash to the rim? Doesn't really take talent to do any of that. He seemingly has the athleticism. Oso, Jop, Gold and a few minutes from Al. All hands on deck!!
Al was sick last game and didn't even dress.
Quote from: DoctorV on January 12, 2024, 07:30:12 PM
Chase and Ben had the most hype of "the others" coming into the season.
Saying that either has met expectations according to that hype would be wild.
Maybe the expectations were too hopeful?
Maybe the will get closer to them in the 2H of the season, now that both will be needed even more.
For Ben, I feel like he really worked on his rebounding and it paid off. He has been much better on that end with securing the ball and using his body to clear out. But we haven't seen jumps in offense or defense along with it.
For Chase, I do think he took major jumps on the defensive end. He also improved his touch around the rim as he's pulled off some of those Kam-type layups, but overall he didn't jump the way that other freshmen>sophomores did in this system.
I definitely expected and predicted more overall growth from them both. Of course, the injuries will only further slow improvement. But a big part of this team's ceiling was the belief that they had a solid 3-man bench that would provide little dropoff from the starters for about 50-60 minutes per night. Not only has that not been the case, but 2/3 of that bench is out for an extended time.
Quote from: brewcity77 on January 13, 2024, 07:56:38 AM
For Ben, I feel like he really worked on his rebounding and it paid off. He has been much better on that end with securing the ball and using his body to clear out. But we haven't seen jumps in offense or defense along with it.
For Chase, I do think he took major jumps on the defensive end. He also improved his touch around the rim as he's pulled off some of those Kam-type layups, but overall he didn't jump the way that other freshmen>sophomores did in this system.
I definitely expected and predicted more overall growth from them both. Of course, the injuries will only further slow improvement. But a big part of this team's ceiling was the belief that they had a solid 3-man bench that would provide little dropoff from the starters for about 50-60 minutes per night. Not only has that not been the case, but 2/3 of that bench is out for an extended time.
Yep. I admit that I, for one, had an outlook of "Kolek, Oso and the others improved so much from their first season under this coaching staff to Year 2, so just wait until they are joined by the vastly improved Ross, Gold and SJones!" So far, that hasn't happen and, given the injuries, now won't happen. Not this season anyway.
Quote from: Viper on January 12, 2024, 08:08:37 PM
Considering what Gold has shown to this point, why not give Amadou more than a minute in garbage time for a dunk? Not redshirting, but doesn't offer enough to play 5-8 minutes of high energy defense/harassment? Maybe grab a board or two? Cut-n-slash to the rim? Doesn't really take talent to do any of that. He seemingly has the athleticism. Oso, Jop, Gold and a few minutes from Al. All hands on deck!!
Maybe Shaka Smart and their assistants, who (unlike you and me and other MU fans) see Amadou for multiple hours every day, don't think the kid is ready to play meaningful minutes in games?
The injuries could force Shaka's hand to play Amadou for a few minutes in some games, although the main depth problem is now at guard/wing.
Quote from: Dr. Blackheart on January 12, 2024, 08:49:02 PM
Al was sick last game and didn't even dress.
ok, one game. What is your point here...was he sick for all the other games? Shaka has 3 freshmen that get chump change playing time. Odd, it seems.
Quote from: Viper on January 13, 2024, 10:07:55 AM
ok, one game. What is your point here...was he sick for all the other games? Shaka has 3 freshmen that get chump change playing time. Odd, it seems.
My point is it is hard to play him when he isn't even on the bench. 90% of the comments here referred to the Butler game where Scoop didn't even know the dude wasn't even on the bench (or that Ben is a Kiwi).
Note: Just because I quote you doesn't mean I disagree with you. Just maybe adding context sometimes.
Quote from: MU82 on January 13, 2024, 08:52:57 AM
Yep. I admit that I, for one, had an outlook of "Kolek, Oso and the others improved so much from their first season under this coaching staff to Year 2, so just wait until they are joined by the vastly improved Ross, Gold and SJones!" So far, that hasn't happen and, given the injuries, now won't happen. Not this season anyway.
Kolek, Oso, Kam, and O-Max all improving that much in one offseason is an extreme outlier. Getting that kind of progress from one or two players is a huge bonus. Four is practically unheard of.
The pendulum swung the other way this year. No one made a major leap. The sophomores all showed steady progress, but no one leveled up.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on January 13, 2024, 10:22:03 AM
Kolek, Oso, Kam, and O-Max all improving that much in one offseason is an extreme outlier. Getting that kind of progress from one or two players is a huge bonus. Four is practically unheard of.
The pendulum swung the other way this year. No one made a major leap. The sophomores all showed steady progress, but no one leveled up.
Agree, good points.
And really add Stevie and Joplin to the list of those who improved markedly from Year 1 to 2 under Shaka, even if not as sensationally as the other 4 did.
But I now realize it was unrealistic to expect that level, as you say. And also, though I'm not writing them off by any means, maybe the sophomores just don't have as high ceilings as their predecessors.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on January 12, 2024, 01:08:47 PM
He doesn't even hang his Warriors pennant in his living room
You have never been in my living room. It is in my bar. But it always makes my day when I see that I still live rent free in your clouded brain.
Quote from: willie warrior on January 13, 2024, 11:19:56 AM
You have never been in my living room. It is in my bar. But it always makes my day when I see that I still live rent free in your clouded brain.
You have your Warriors pennant in a bar? Disgraceful
Quote from: franklinjerry on January 11, 2024, 07:02:30 AM
Gold can guard five positions? Which five positions are those?
I not a fan of big men playing all over the floor.
Against Purdue Oso got a useless foul reaching in far away from basket. This foul may have been what caused us to lose to Purdue, since Oso ended up in foul trouble.
Otule hurt his knee and was lost for the season, when in slipped on logo way out on the floor trying to play defense. MU was undefeated when the injury happened.
The problem wasn't Oso guarding out on the floor, the problem was that Oso reached.
Quote from: The Sultan of Semantics on January 13, 2024, 11:43:16 AM
The problem wasn't Oso guarding out on the floor, the problem was that Oso reached.
True, but it would not of happened if our defense was not designed to pressure all over the floor. UW plays better defense than us, because they play solid position defense. Position defense also allows you to screen out on rebounds.
Quote from: bilsu on January 13, 2024, 11:54:43 AM
True, but it would not of happened if our defense was not designed to pressure all over the floor. UW plays better defense than us, because they play solid position defense. Position defense also allows you to screen out on rebounds.
Marquette's giving up less ppp than Wisconsin.
Quote from: MU82 on January 13, 2024, 08:52:57 AM
Yep. I admit that I, for one, had an outlook of "Kolek, Oso and the others improved so much from their first season under this coaching staff to Year 2, so just wait until they are joined by the vastly improved Ross, Gold and SJones!" So far, that hasn't happen and, given the injuries, now won't happen. Not this season anyway.
Maybe Shaka Smart and their assistants, who (unlike you and me and other MU fans) see Amadou for multiple hours every day, don't think the kid is ready to play meaningful minutes in games?
The injuries could force Shaka's hand to play Amadou for a few minutes in some games, although the main depth problem is now at guard/wing.
...We aren't at practice. Thx! But really, 5 minutes of high energy harassment and not ready? If true, not good. I'm sure there will be huge improvement in year 2. (said with sarcasm) Depth? Since Gold offers little and Amadou apparently isn't 'ready', Shaka has no depth on the front line. Should Kolek and Jones return to form and Mitchell maintains health, MU might be ok if even one of Norman or Lowrey steps it up. Just one guy could be huge...and as you say, maybe a forced hand to play all three freshmen will be fortuitous. And btw, and back to Gold, considering the potential compromised depth off the bench, if he has even an ounce of competitiveness and aggression, what an opportunity to get big minutes and make an impact.
Quote from: The Sultan of Semantics on January 13, 2024, 12:03:03 PM
Marquette's giving up less ppp than Wisconsin.
+1
Marquette is a significantly better defensive team than Wisconsin. Our issues are not on the defensive end. Our problem is offense. Largely because we are taking a greater percentage of shots from three this year while connecting on them at a much lower rate. We have the #49 offense in the country per kenpom currently; Wisconsin is #6. Defensively, they are at #32 and we are at #10.
Quote from: brewcity77 on January 13, 2024, 09:58:48 PM
+1
Marquette is a significantly better defensive team than Wisconsin. Our issues are not on the defensive end. Our problem is offense. Largely because we are taking a greater percentage of shots from three this year while connecting on them at a much lower rate. We have the #49 offense in the country per kenpom currently; Wisconsin is #6. Defensively, they are at #32 and we are at #10.
We need to get our head out of ass Brew. Excuse my language. I really don't care about Kenpom, our star players have to step up.
Quote from: MuggsyB on January 14, 2024, 08:39:24 AM
We need to get our head out of ass Brew. Excuse my language. I really don't care about Kenpom, our star players have to step up.
At this point in the season, it's about MANalytics not analytics.
Quote from: panda on January 14, 2024, 08:58:47 AM
At this point in the season, it's about MANalytics not analytics.
Agree 100%. No excuses, figure it out and get back to balling at an elite level.
panda
I'm with you. Time to step it up. There is so much time left in the season and a lot can happen.
Quote from: MuggsyB on January 14, 2024, 08:39:24 AM
We need to get our head out of ass Brew. Excuse my language. I really don't care about Kenpom, our star players have to step up.
That has nothing to do with the discussion at hand. And saying you don't care about stats is about as educated as saying you don't care about the score.
Quote from: brewcity77 on January 14, 2024, 01:51:15 PM
That has nothing to do with the discussion at hand. And saying you don't care about stats is about as educated as saying you don't care about the score.
The score doesn't matter as long as all the players on both teams give their all for their universities, their families and their deities.
Quote from: MuggsyB on January 14, 2024, 09:17:20 AM
Agree 100%. No excuses, figure it out and get back to balling at an elite level.
Would be nice, but this team has been fat from an elite level for a month or more
Quote from: willie warrior on January 14, 2024, 03:25:56 PM
Would be nice, but this team has been fat from an elite level for a month or more
How fat?
phat?
Quote from: MU82 on January 14, 2024, 03:28:11 PM
phat?
I know what's not phat. Having your Warriors pennant hanging in your bar instead of your living room
Another very good defensive game from Ben. His D keyed the run with Zaide's 3s.
Quote from: LloydsLegs on January 15, 2024, 11:05:24 PM
Another very good defensive game from Ben. His D keyed the run with Zaide's 3s.
Bingo's on Center!!!
Like the way I melded the two? :)
And, yes, I have decided that Ben's D will be my Scoop Hill death.
Bump
Block.
This thread has not aged well.
Comedy Gold.
Some fun takes in here, starting right with Eeyore's opening post.
I think we are just starting to see the tools that Ben has in his game. He has made some nifty passes over the past month, has brought the ball upcourt easily and is extremely active when given a chance. The more I see him the more excited I get about him. Not to harp on the NBA prospect theme, but I am expecting to enjoy watching Ben for one more season at MU and then he is off to bigger things.
Sky is the limit for Ben.
Great effort and hussle against Providence.
BeeGee improves with every game.. He has been able to bang with each team we have played and his defense has stepped up the last few games while his three point shooting showed up last night. Can't wait 'til he starts posterizing some people.
Right now, Bee Gee is Stayin Alive on defense, which is not a Tragedy.
Quote from: tower912 on February 29, 2024, 03:19:53 PM
Right now, Bee Gee is Stayin Alive on defense, which is not a Tragedy.
That ain't no jive talking.
Quote from: Goose on February 29, 2024, 09:49:24 AM
I think we are just starting to see the tools that Ben has in his game. He has made some nifty passes over the past month, has brought the ball upcourt easily and is extremely active when given a chance. The more I see him the more excited I get about him. Not to harp on the NBA prospect theme, but I am expecting to enjoy watching Ben for one more season at MU and then he is off to bigger things.
Disagree. Ben is developing nicely and has enjoyed the coaching, nurturing by Shaka. He will continue to grow and excel like Oso as a 4 year Warrior.
First domino award for Ben
https://x.com/coachshakasmart/status/1763321298992742710?s=61&t=6XPB8f4sAKmJIzxgMcsCjw
Quote from: MuMark on February 29, 2024, 03:57:47 PM
First domino award for Ben
https://x.com/coachshakasmart/status/1763321298992742710?s=61&t=6XPB8f4sAKmJIzxgMcsCjw
Dung Willie in Shambles
You can tell by the way he walks, aina?
Quote from: Stretchdeltsig on February 29, 2024, 03:24:19 PM
Disagree. Ben is developing nicely and has enjoyed the coaching, nurturing by Shaka. He will continue to grow and excel like Oso as a 4 year Warrior.
Im curious Stretch. Why are about 50% of your posts poo pooing on players leaving early for the NBA?
Apparently he's of the opinion that college coaches prepare players layers better for the NBA.
Quote from: TAMU, Knower of Ball on March 01, 2024, 07:42:16 AM
Im curious Stretch. Why are about 50% of your posts poo pooing on players leaving early for the NBA?
It has to be a bit
Quote from: The Sultan of Semantics on March 01, 2024, 07:49:23 AM
Apparently he's of the opinion that college coaches prepare players layers better for the NBA.
Some college coaches are very good at it. Shaka is probably one of many. It really is a tight rope of development of the physical and mental tools at the same time. I don't dismiss completely, as some do, that college might be as good or better in some cases for development for the next level, rather than turning pro immediately and toiling in the g league or Europe to prepare for the NBA.
Now, the conversation gets more weighted for a player to turn pro if a player is deemed ready for the NBA. I think a player of that level needs to go right away unless their physical tools are way ahead of their mental tools and then gaining confidence in college might be a better option for one more year.
I think there is some more nuance to this conversation than ever before, especially now that players can be paid.
Gold's defense was singled out by both Shaka and English after Wednesday's game.
Quote from: tower912 on March 01, 2024, 09:17:20 AM
Gold's defense was singled out by both Shaka and English after Wednesday's game.
Dung Willie in shambles again
Quote from: Goose on February 29, 2024, 09:49:24 AM
I think we are just starting to see the tools that Ben has in his game. He has made some nifty passes over the past month, has brought the ball upcourt easily and is extremely active when given a chance. The more I see him the more excited I get about him. Not to harp on the NBA prospect theme, but I am expecting to enjoy watching Ben for one more season at MU and then he is off to bigger things.
...dinner at Eddie Martini's or Mr. B's on me if your boy BG is on a nba roster in '25.
Viper
Done deal.
Quote from: Goose on March 01, 2024, 10:07:25 AM
Viper
Done deal.
Given Viper's analysis versus yours, go ahead and plan on ordering the most expensive bottle of wine
Quote from: tower912 on March 01, 2024, 09:17:20 AM
Gold's defense was singled out by both Shaka and English after Wednesday's game.
Shaka & English don't know ball
Ron will travel, Ben is Ponce Gold
.425
That's Ben Gold's 3-point percentage over the last 13 games if the 1-8 game vs. Creighton is removed.
Obviously, we can't really "remove" that 1-8 - he shot it, and Marquette coulda used a couple more makes from him in that game.
So if we include that game, he was at .375 over that stretch.
A 6-10 guy shooting .375 from 3, playing good defense, and improving as the season has progressed.
aka ... Brick City.
I have really enjoyed watching Ben improve over the course of the season. He works hard on defense, is becoming a better rebounder, and is showing some passing skills in addition to his shooting. We are going to be really glad we have him next year.
.793
Ben's 2FG%
29
The number of 2FGA. Less than one per game.
Quote from: Dr. Blackheart on March 11, 2024, 09:29:49 AM
.793
Ben's 2FG%
29
The number of 2FGA. Less than one per game.
That's the next step. Cut with authority and finish through contact. The opportunities are there, he just prefers drifting to the arc.
Quote from: MUfan12 on March 11, 2024, 09:37:01 AM
That's the next step. Cut with authority and finish through contact. The opportunities are there, he just prefers drifting to the arc.
He does seem to prefer what you say, but I do also believe Gold is doing what Shaka wants him to do.
If Shaka insisted that Ben pass up 3s and drive more, he'd do it. But Gold's 3-point shooting gives us a dimension that this particular team needs. Next season, Ben will be asked to do more, and hopefully he'll deliver.
If Ben Gold was incoming portal addition, there would be a lot of excitement on scoop, imo. Said the same thing two years ago when Shaka retained Oso, TK and Omax. Sometimes it is hard to appreciate the players you have because you watch them often and closely. I am pretty certain there would be a lot of fanbases excited if they got Gold via the portal.
Quote from: MU82 on March 11, 2024, 09:39:23 AM
He does seem to prefer what you say, but I do also believe Gold is doing what Shaka wants him to do.
If Shaka insisted that Ben pass up 3s and drive more, he'd do it. But Gold's 3-point shooting gives us a dimension that this particular team needs. Next season, Ben will be asked to do more, and hopefully he'll deliver.
Here's another crazy Scoop take by me. Make him a Karaban and grab a graduate transfer center, say a Dixon. Let's face it, Ben is three in a five body.
MU needs to be able to play physical teams (and rebound). I'd go here in the portal, not PG.
He's shown some nice drives to the basket.
Quote from: Dr. Blackheart on March 11, 2024, 10:00:15 AM
Here's another crazy Scoop take by me. Make him a Karaban and grab a graduate transfer center, say a Dixon. Let's face it, Ben is three in a five body.
MU needs to be able to play physical teams (and rebound). I'd go here in the portal, not PG.
If that's really something Shaka would consider doing, and if we really could get a rim protector and low-post scorer who would be better than Gold, I'd endorse your plan as not crazy at all ... although I'd be concerned about Ben having to play too much perimeter D again.
Quote from: MU82 on March 11, 2024, 10:09:39 AM
If that's really something Shaka would consider doing, and if we really could get a rim protector and low-post scorer who would be better than Gold, I'd endorse your plan as not crazy at all ... although I'd be concerned about Ben having to play too much perimeter D again.
I'd have Dixon guard the perimeter and Ben the post in that theoretical.
Quote from: Goose on March 11, 2024, 09:56:07 AM
If Ben Gold was incoming portal addition, there would be a lot of excitement on scoop, imo. Said the same thing hetwo years ago when Shaka retained Oso, TK and Omax. Sometimes it is hard to appreciate the players you have because you watch them often and closely. I am pretty certain there would be a lot of fanbases excited if they got Gold via the portal.
Agree with this 100%. Ben is a good one. It will be Kam and his team next year. With the glue guy's leadership thrown in there as well.
Quote from: Dr. Blackheart on March 11, 2024, 10:12:09 AM
I'd have Dixon guard the perimeter and Ben the post in that theoretical.
We'd have 2 bigs firing 3s all the time! And I'm not sure Dixon would be any better defending on the perimeter than Gold has been. Dixon's also only an OK rebounder.
I know he was the name you used in your hypothetical ... but if Shaka wanted to make Gold a taller Karaban, I'd prefer a true rim-protector/rebounder to Dixon. How about bringing over Clingan to go with Karaban! 8-)
Quote from: Dr. Blackheart on March 11, 2024, 10:00:15 AM
Here's another crazy Scoop take by me. Make him a Karaban and grab a graduate transfer center, say a Dixon. Let's face it, Ben is three in a five body.
MU needs to be able to play physical teams (and rebound). I'd go here in the portal, not PG.
And in your scenario, which one of Gold or Joplin transfers? Because I wouldn't expect both to stay if Shaka added a starting caliber 4/5.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 11, 2024, 10:18:31 AM
And in your scenario, which one of Gold or Joplin transfers? Because I wouldn't expect both to stay if Shaka added a starting caliber 4/5.
Joplin would still be the 4 and Ben the 3. Stevie and Kam as the guards (or Chase if Kam goes pro). Dixon the 5 in a similar role as he plays at Nova (5 out offense).
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 11, 2024, 10:18:31 AM
And in your scenario, which one of Gold or Joplin transfers? Because I wouldn't expect both to stay if Shaka added a starting caliber 4/5.
If they transfer cause of some competition cya.
Quote from: WolfganghisKhan on March 11, 2024, 10:38:22 AM
If they transfer cause of some competition cya.
They're not transferring. They'll be starters next year
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 11, 2024, 11:12:46 AM
They're not transferring. They'll be starters next year
Id hope gold is starting. He has zero competition
Quote from: WolfganghisKhan on March 11, 2024, 12:13:36 PM
Id hope gold is starting. He has zero competition
Yeah, that's not correct. Based on how Shaka has built his roster, Al and Caedin will see increased roles next year.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 11, 2024, 12:17:09 PM
Yeah, that's not correct. Based on how Shaka has built his roster, Al and Caedin will see increased roles next year.
two project guys who've played zero meaningful college minutes aren't legit competition
Quote from: WolfganghisKhan on March 11, 2024, 12:21:57 PM
two project guys who've played zero meaningful college minutes aren't legit competition
I can trust a poster on Scoop or the coaching staff
Guys like Oso, OMax, Shead, Brust and Kaminsky proved definitively that if you get just about no meaningful college minutes as a freshman, you will NEVER be any good.
Quote from: Dr. Blackheart on March 11, 2024, 10:30:50 AM
Joplin would still be the 4 and Ben the 3. Stevie and Kam as the guards (or Chase if Kam goes pro). Dixon the 5 in a similar role as he plays at Nova (5 out offense).
Ben is much closer to a 5 than a 3. A stretch big, if you will.
Quote from: WolfganghisKhan on March 11, 2024, 10:38:22 AM
If they transfer cause of some competition cya.
You're entitled to your opinion, but I think Shaka values loyalty and development of his guys more than you do.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 11, 2024, 12:25:49 PM
I can trust a poster on Scoop or the coaching staff
Posters on Scoop rule
I assume you added Brust as a joke?
Quote from: MU82 on March 11, 2024, 12:36:26 PM
Guys like Oso, OMax, Shead, Brust and Kaminsky proved definitively that if you get just about no meaningful college minutes as a freshman, you will NEVER be any good.
Quote from: PointWarrior on March 12, 2024, 12:55:06 AM
I assume you added Brust as a joke?
Ben Brust offensive rating as a sophomore was 107.2, as a senior it was 122.2 while playing 86% of available minutes. Basically, he was one of the most efficient players in the nation as a senior while playing a load of minutes.
Not bad for a 3*
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 12, 2024, 06:38:32 AM
Ben Brust offensive rating as a sophomore was 107.2, as a senior it was 122.2 while playing 86% of available minutes. Basically, he was one of the most efficient players in the nation as a senior while playing a load of minutes.
Not bad for a 3*
Never forget Bo fought to get him out of his LOI from Iowa, and then pulled the Uthoff nonsense a few years later.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 11, 2024, 12:57:59 PM
Ben is much closer to a 5 than a 3. A stretch big, if you will.
You're entitled to your opinion, but I think Shaka values loyalty and development of his guys more than you do.
Fair. Only time will tell how well it works. I hope he's right.
Quote from: PointWarrior on March 12, 2024, 12:55:06 AM
I assume you added Brust as a joke?
You can laugh if you want, but he became a good college player and a valuable part of two Final Four teams.
CHEEBS Utoff was a couple years before Brust, not after.
Brust was a freshman at Wisconsin in 2010-11.
Uthoff redshirted at Wisconsin in 2011-12, sat out as a transfer at Iowa in 2012-13.
Thought Ben was banging pretty good with Clingan Then I remembered he is a rugby player. The next year(s) with some muscle he could be a presence under the hoop with that mindset
Clingan makes Ben look small.
Shaka: Ben needs to believe he is as good as we all think he is.
I loved the pump fake dunk. Too little, too late.
Quote from: MU82 on March 17, 2024, 08:13:28 AM
Gold has made 9 of his last 10 from behind the arc and is now at .361.
In 16 games since Jan. 24 - that's basically half a season - he's at .426.
Not sure what some people expect from him as a 3-point shooter, but good luck finding a big who can do that in the portal.
And his fake/drive/dunk was the best play of the entire game.
I'm not ready to say he'll be an NBA player ... but I'm not ready to say he won't be, either. I AM ready to say that he'll have a nice season in 2024-25, and that we'll have one of the best (if not the best) bigs in the conference.