Second 2027 commitment. Congrats!
Awesome news. Welcome!
Quote from: wadesworld on September 04, 2026, 08:09:56 AMSecond 2027 commitment. Congrats!
Willie said we weren't recruiting. Thought he'd have more insight with his massive donations
little willie will be disappointed to hear we got a big Ndong
JB on the other hand...
Quote from: Hards Alumni on September 04, 2026, 08:16:44 AMlittle willie will be disappointed to hear we got a big Ndong
JB on the other hand...
Middle school humor is a great way to start the day! :D
Quote from: Hards Alumni on September 04, 2026, 08:16:44 AMlittle willie will be disappointed to hear we got a big Ndong
JB on the other hand...
Obviously I can provide a comprehensive scouting report.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on September 04, 2026, 08:20:38 AMMiddle school humor is a great way to start the day! :D
You can always count on me, buddy.
Ben Steele's tweet... I hope he was very intentional with his words!!
"Philipe Ndong has seen rapid growth in his game over the last year."
So, a little research. Depending on where you look, he is a 6'7-8-9 shooting guard-wing-PF. I saw one picture of him where he looks like Oso's younger brother. 4 star. Riser. Son of an NBA player and coach.
Another 'do a little of everything' 6'8 guy?
It appears he is a project. Sure seems like Shaka will be hitting the portal end of 2026-27 season for more big men.
https://x.com/AdamFinkelstein/status/2095858651101597698
His dad is 7'. He may have some vertical growth left, as well as filling out and other metaphorical growth.
He's ranked 93 in 247's composite, 92 at Rivals.
Nigel James was ranked 89 in 247's composite just as a reference.
But predictable the people who come out and claim this kid should be going to a mid major without having seen more than 2 minutes of highlight video on him. Same people are probably complaining we're wasting time chasing the number 5 player in the country.
Quote from: MUbiz on September 04, 2026, 08:32:12 AMIt appears he is a project. Sure seems like Shaka will be hitting the portal end of 2026-27 season for more big men.
https://x.com/AdamFinkelstein/status/2095858651101597698
Think this will be a regular plan moving forward.
I don't think the plan if for him to be a big man, but the scouting report made him sound like a Royce type of player at PF.
Projects aren't as valuable a proposition as they once were, but his path to immediate SF/PF playing time is practically nonexistent with (all hypothetical, due to the portal) Royce + Damarius being at MU next season and Alex, MPIII, Ethan Johnston being there for 2-3 years.
I'd love for Alex Egbuonu to put on another inch or two, but he's beefy enough to be a true PF in college. I'm expecting him to end up as Royce's long-term replacement. Maybe Phillipe Ndong will be a solid understudy to him
I just hope that by the time he arrives our summer league exhibition games are streamed live in high definition.
Welcome to MU!
Having a 7' father makes the possibility of getting taller very real. The coaches compared his feel for the game to Oso. I don't view it as a bad thing to have an abundance of 6'7/6'9 switchables.
And, I disagree with Brew's take about sending a top 100 prospect to a mid major for a couple of seasons and then grabbing him from the portal. I understand the bitter ex vibe from Sheek leaving. I just reject it.
I am excited about the potential.
Quote from: SchnitzelBoy on September 04, 2026, 08:52:40 AMI don't think the plan if for him to be a big man, but the scouting report made him sound like a Royce type of player at PF.
Projects aren't as valuable a proposition as they once were, but his path to immediate SF/PF playing time is practically nonexistent with (all hypothetical, due to the portal) Royce + Damarius being at MU next season and Alex, MPIII, Ethan Johnston being there for 2-3 years.
I'd love for Alex Egbuonu to put on another inch or two, but he's beefy enough to be a true PF in college. I'm expecting him to end up as Royce's long-term replacement. Maybe Phillipe Ndong will be a solid understudy to him
A guy who already looks like a grown ass man probably isn't adding much more height.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on September 04, 2026, 08:48:04 AMThink this will be a regular plan moving forward.
Yeah I think Shaka's best-case-scenario is only losing 1-2 players each season to the portal and adding 1-2 players. But if he gets to sit out a portal cycle every few years that probably means things are going well!
If Fru is allowed to stay on for the 2027-28 season, there's a world where we don't touch the portal, but that seems highly unlikely for many reasons
I hope for the best with Ndong and would love to see him thrive here and outperform the expectations Adam Finkelstein and myself have for him.
That said, I just don't get this. Recruiting is changing. Taking a project when you could redshirt them and transfers had to sit out, making the move less appealing, made sense in 2017. But now it's 2027.
Every assessment of this guy indicates he's a project. As good as Jaxson Hayes was for Shaka at Texas and as good as Oso turned out to be after barely playing his freshmen year, we've seen 5 project bigs (Keeyan, Amadou, Gold, Hamilton, Clark) and the only one to develop to even the rotation player level was Gold.
High major programs are moving away from high school players. If you can get a top-50 kid, great. But otherwise, it makes more sense to dedicate roster spots to players with a proof of concept. Everyone always asks "oh yeah, who would willingly take a bench role?" How about Fred King at Creighton, Wilson Jacques at DePaul, NJ Benson at Georgetown, Samson Aletan at Providence, and Nikolaus Chitikoudis at Xavier? All of them are more proven big bodies that are D1 ready.
Some services have Ndong top-100. That's fine for him, but I'm of the opinion that the lowest level of high school players we should target are in the Egbuonu range. This just feels like we're trying to build rosters the same way we always did. It garnered mixed results before and seems likely to only push is further back if we stick with it going forward.
^^^ We have 15 roster spots. Having some guys who sit and hopefully grow actually makes a lot of sense to me.
Quote from: Jay Bee on September 04, 2026, 09:48:25 AM^^^ We have 15 roster spots. Having some guys who sit and hopefully grow actually makes a lot of sense to me.
Especially one who has a dad who turned into a strong professional player..after not getting recruited much because he was skinny.
Build your team with recruits and fill in the gaps with NIL.
MU will find a roster spot if it needs to.
I am far less concerned about cutting a player than I used to be. With NIL and instant transfers, players have more options.
Building and developing are part of the coach's DNA and traditional recruiting will remain his focus.
Quote from: Jay Bee on September 04, 2026, 09:48:25 AM^^^ We have 15 roster spots. Having some guys who sit and hopefully grow actually makes a lot of sense to me.
2-3? Sure. But this year alone we have 7 for which my expectations are zero or barely above that.
Crowdis, Miletic, and Walker all sound like guys that probably shouldn't be playing much.
Hamilton and Clark are guys who we've watched and would generally prefer they not play much without seismic leaps.
Johnston and Egbuonu are unknowns but I'm not expecting much out of them either.
And all 7 are eligible to return in 2027-28. We don't need more projects.
Is it really a safer bet to go the Yaxel route over the Oso route?
And, just because other programs do it, is it the right choice for MU?
The Dodgers, Brewers analogy seems to fit here. How many years did the Dodgers have the highest payroll and not win? How about those Yankees and Mets? How many teams went all in on the portal and didn't win the title or even get better? Growing and developing your own can still lead to success. Going after every free agent is no guarantee.
I think Shaka stays in his niche while at MU. I think he will continue to recruit high schoolers and develop them, only hitting the portal when he has to, while continuing to develop his recruits. And I think that approach will continue to resonate.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 09:58:06 AM2-3? Sure. But this year alone we have 7 for which my expectations are zero or barely above that.
Crowdis, Miletic, and Walker all sound like guys that probably shouldn't be playing much.
Hamilton and Clark are guys who we've watched and would generally prefer they not play much without seismic leaps.
Johnston and Egbuonu are unknowns but I'm not expecting much out of them either.
And all 7 are eligible to return in 2027-28. We don't need more projects.
I'd suspect Crowdis (practice player), Fru (pro), and Hamilton (graduates) won't be back next year (just speculating here) based on the idea that many here are holding to that MU is still targeting a PG and Center.
Quote from: tower912 on September 04, 2026, 09:58:29 AMI think Shaka stays in his niche while at MU. I think he will continue to recruit high schoolers and develop them, only hitting the portal when he has to, while continuing to develop his recruits. And I think that approach will continue to resonate.
I see what you have written as RGV 2.0.
I get both Brew's take and this one. As long as Shaka is our coach, it will be an academic discussion.
I don't disagree.
Quote from: tower912 on September 04, 2026, 09:58:29 AMI think Shaka stays in his niche while at MU. I think he will continue to recruit high schoolers and develop them, only hitting the portal when he has to, while continuing to develop his recruits. And I think that approach will continue to resonate.
As long as it works, that's fine. But it feels like he's been operating behind the curve for a couple of years now, and last year it bit him.
Quote from: The Sultan on September 04, 2026, 10:13:23 AMAs long as it works, that's fine. But it feels like he's been operating behind the curve for a couple of years now, and last year it bit him.
Yeah the seat is certainly warm. All that matters are W's.
Hitting the portal will be a yearly thing from now on
Quote from: JakeBarnes on September 04, 2026, 09:53:39 AMEspecially on who has a dad who turned into a strong professional player..after not getting recruited much because he was skinny.
Scoopers thought we should have recruited Marcus Jordan too.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on September 04, 2026, 08:20:38 AMMiddle school humor is a great way to start the day! :D
My Ndong is getting excited too. Some say he is a project. Well Hamilton and Clark were also projects and look how well they are turning out. Shaka once again proving that he is a savant on the recruiting trail, when he tries real hard....Look, here comes Reeker with some snarky comment...proving once again that I live rent free in his gourd. The guy literally lurks out there waiting for my posts.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on September 04, 2026, 10:17:14 AMYeah the seat is certainly warm. All that matters are W's.
If Shaka was worried about his seat being warm, he wouldn't be signing HS players.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on September 04, 2026, 08:20:38 AMMiddle school humor is a great way to start the day! :D
My Ndong is getting excited too. Some say he is a project. Well Hamilton and Clark were also projects and look how well they are turning out. Shaka once again proving that he is a savant on the recruiting trail, when he tries real hard....Look, here comes Reeker with some snarky comment...proving once again that I live rent free in his gourd. The guy literally lurks out there waiting for my posts.
Quote from: tower912 on September 04, 2026, 09:58:29 AMIs it really a safer bet to go the Yaxel route over the Oso route?
Who's talking about Yaxel? If we're dedicating a spot to a reserve big, there are plenty of bench bigs that transferred to Big East programs and didn't cost a fortune.
King at Creighton, Jacques at DePaul, Aletan at Providence, Chitikoudis at Xavier, all came in to be bench contributors. NJ Benson is going to Georgetown for that kind of role showing that there are still 5/5 guys (like Porter) that could help.
And next year the options will be far, far greater. Because of 5/5 going fully into effect, the only 2026-27 players that won't be eligible to return for 2027-28 are the fifth year players currently challenging the NCAA ruling in court and a few older Euro players like Quinn Ellis.
If there was ever a year to not remotely consider a project, 2027 is it.
Quote from: willie warrior on September 04, 2026, 10:24:30 AMMy Ndong is getting excited too. Some say he is a project. Well Hamilton and Clark were also projects and look how well they are turning out. Shaka once again proving that he is a savant on the recruiting trail, when he tries real hard....Look, here comes Reeker with some snarky comment...proving once again that I live rent free in his gourd. The guy literally lurks out there waiting for my posts.
I'm just waiting for you to share your yearly donations to the program so I can match. If you're too modest to share, send a DM and I'll keep it confidential.
Quote from: tower912 on September 04, 2026, 10:24:15 AMIf Shaka was worried about his seat being warm, he wouldn't be signing HS players.
He brought in transfers last year, and by all indications, will continue to do so. I know he is in Kimo's good graces, but that only lasts until the money shuts off.
KA-FRICKING-BOOM!!!!
LFG!!!
Quote from: The Sultan on September 04, 2026, 10:27:22 AMHe brought in transfers last year, and by all indications, will continue to do so. I know he is in Kimo's good graces, but that only lasts until the money shuts off.
It also assumes that the seats over his head aren't also getting warm.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Dc3b5R3EYcI/?igsi=MXd2ZnU3Z3hsbGtrcQ==
Quote from: The Sultan on September 04, 2026, 10:27:22 AMHe brought in transfers last year, and by all indications, will continue to do so. I know he is in Kimo's good graces, but that only lasts until the money shuts off.
The two things we said are not contradictory. He is going to be Shaka. If it doesn't work and he and MU part, life will continue.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on September 04, 2026, 08:20:38 AMMiddle school humor is a great way to start the day! :D
Will his nickname be the Donger?
Quote from: wadesworld on September 04, 2026, 08:46:39 AMHe's ranked 93 in 247's composite, 92 at Rivals.
Nigel James was ranked 89 in 247's composite just as a reference.
But predictable the people who come out and claim this kid should be going to a mid major without having seen more than 2 minutes of highlight video on him. Same people are probably complaining we're wasting time chasing the number 5 player in the country.
Tre Norman was ranked 98 in composite symir Torrence was 75. I'm not hyped or down on the guy but I think history has shown that after the top 50ish players rankings aren't exactly always the most accurate indicator for success.
I'm wary about the lack of other big name teams offering him but think if we trim some of the other roster fat next year he's worth while taking on as a project for a few years.
Quote from: tower912 on September 04, 2026, 10:24:15 AMIf Shaka was worried about his seat being warm, he wouldn't be signing HS players.
Consider that he is a very stubborn man.
Quote from: tower912 on September 04, 2026, 10:33:39 AMThe two things we said are not contradictory. He is going to be Shaka. If it doesn't work and he and MU part, life will continue.
You were using as evidence that bringing in a high schooler means his seat isn't warm. I think using this recruitment as evidence for a cold seat doesn't make a lot of sense considering that he brought in transfers last year.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 09:58:06 AM2-3? Sure. But this year alone we have 7 for which my expectations are zero or barely above that.
Crowdis, Miletic, and Walker all sound like guys that probably shouldn't be playing much.
Hamilton and Clark are guys who we've watched and would generally prefer they not play much without seismic leaps.
Johnston and Egbuonu are unknowns but I'm not expecting much out of them either.
And all 7 are eligible to return in 2027-28. We don't need more projects.
Completely different discussion. We have multiple questionable roster decisions embedded in our 2026-27 bench. I'm speaking to Ndong specifically. This year's "projects" or "likely not helpful" are far too plentiful. But a guy like Ndong, viewing only him and not the rest of the roster, I'm quite agreeable to.
Do we need to churn after this year? Hell yes.
Quote from: The Sultan on September 04, 2026, 10:41:30 AMYou were using as evidence that bringing in a high schooler means his seat isn't warm. I think using this recruitment as evidence for a cold seat doesn't make a lot of sense considering that he brought in transfers last year.
Stunningly, we disagree. Also, stunningly, yawn.
Quote from: Jay Bee on September 04, 2026, 10:41:36 AMBut a guy like Ndong, viewing only him and not the rest of the roster, I'm quite agreeable to.
At this point, my expectation of NEPSAC players is that they're probably going to disappoint whatever my expectations are. What makes 3-star Ndong more promising than Itejere or Amadou were?
With Fru eligible to return (by age) that means we're one over for next year. And while the staff won't say this, they absolutely are trying to add at least two more freshmen for next year.
If that comes to pass, we're running off 3 to start with. So why bring in another project at a position we've had a 20% hit rate at so far (Gold the one success)? If you're running someone off, at least do it for a contributor, which Ndong seems 3 years away from being if it all goes well.
Quote from: tower912 on September 04, 2026, 10:46:04 AMStunningly, we disagree.
OK, well disagree all you want, the evidence supports my point.
Quote from: tower912 on September 04, 2026, 10:46:04 AMAlso, stunningly, yawn.
I mean, you brought it up. Sorry that challenging your narrative makes you sleepy.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 10:50:28 AMAt this point, my expectation of NEPSAC players is that they're probably going to disappoint whatever my expectations are. What makes 3-star Ndong more promising than Itejere or Amadou were?
With Fru eligible to return (by age) that means we're one over for next year. And while the staff won't say this, they absolutely are trying to add at least two more freshmen for next year.
If that comes to pass, we're running off 3 to start with. So why bring in another project at a position we've had a 20% hit rate at so far (Gold the one success)? If you're running someone off, at least do it for a contributor, which Ndong seems 3 years away from being if it all goes well.
This reads beyond pessimistic at this juncture. You cannot make a correlation of past MU players to current MU players based on star rankings or any other metrics. We can easily cite those who have overachieved or underachieved based on expectations or "rankings". Perhaps it would be prudent to give the young man a chance before he steps onto the court and in a MU uni?
From Finkelstein
The Fit at Marquette
It is no secret that player development and player retention are two of the focal points of Marquette's program. They are also interconnected variables. When players get better, and see an increased opportunity with each passing year, they're more likely to return. Similarly, when retention is the norm, it's easier for coaches to invest in the players who are already in their program, instead of recruiting over them out of the transfer portal.
That's why they are one of the few high-major programs that make sense for Ndong. He undeniably needs to be somewhere that will invest in his long-term development, and not just look at this as a one-year proposition. The reality is, he may not be able to help them next season. But if they can put real weight on him, get him adjusted to playing Big East caliber competition on a daily basis, acclimate him to their culture, and prepare him for minutes in the 2028-29 season, there's merit in that plan.
Long-term, he's not just someone with clear potential, but someone who fits what Marquette looks for in the frontcourt. Royce Parham, David Joplin, and Oso Ighodaro are all skilled frontcourt players that have found success under Smart, and the hope is that Ndong could be the latest to exceed external expectations along that same path
Comes from a great AAU program too
Quote from: MuggsyB on September 04, 2026, 11:03:53 AMThis reads beyond pessimistic at this juncture. You cannot make a correlation of past MU players to current MU players based on star rankings or any other metrics. We can easily cite those who have overachieved or underachieved based on expectations or "rankings". Perhaps it would be prudent to give the young man a chance before he steps onto the court and in an MU uni?
Have you often found that ignoring past trends and precedents is a good way to predict future expectations?
Like I said off the bat, I hope he succeeds, but I'm not going to play ostrich and pretend there's no reason for skepticism. And knowing we're one over for 2027-28 and planning on at least two freshman additions, while probably needing to add 1-2 transfers on top of that, I just don't get bringing in another project on a team full of them.
Rivals Jamie Shaw report from July 10
4-star F Philipe Ndong (2027) had perhaps the performance of the day in his second game of the Under Armour Next Live period. The 6-foot-10 forward is thin, but he is a fluid mover. He knocked down multiple threes, both off movement and off the bounce. He also attacked the basket from the wing. The Rivals four-star will need strength and to continue to streamline his game, but the upside here is massive. Marquette's Shaka Smart was in to watch as he finished with a game-high 16 points on three threes in the Middlesex Magic win. He is Rivals' No. 95 overall player in 2027 :D :D
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 11:08:25 AMHave you often found that ignoring past trends and precedents is a good way to predict future expectations?
Like I said off the bat, I hope he succeeds, but I'm not going to play ostrich and pretend there's no reason for skepticism. And knowing we're one over for 2027-28 and planning on at least two freshman additions, while probably needing to add 1-2 transfers on top of that, I just don't get bringing in another project on a team full of them.
Again, "past precedents" and "trends" aren't black and white nor clearly illustrate your point. That doesn't mean you can't be skeptical, but I believe judgement should be reserved until after the kid has some playing time for us.
Brew's eeyore scenario certainly sets up what is to me a very interesting question.
After NMD in February, a poster reached out and recounted a conversation he had with high ranking MU officials.
Shaka's seat was ice cold.
MU would be active in the portal
Two were leaving. (Sheek shocked us all)
No GM.
MU would spend to keep the young stars.
The thing the high ranking official said that will be sorely tested in Brew's scenario is that MU doesn't run off players. They constantly communicate, they discuss roles and other recruits.
But the decision to stay or go is the player's.
The information turned out to be pretty good. Will that part of Shaka's/MU's philosophy change?
Quote from: MuggsyB on September 04, 2026, 11:03:53 AMThis reads beyond pessimistic at this juncture. You cannot make a correlation of past MU players to current MU players based on star rankings or any other metrics. We can easily cite those who have overachieved or underachieved based on expectations or "rankings". Perhaps it would be prudent to give the young man a chance before he steps onto the court and in a MU uni?
The current admin messed with brew's happy, and he's kinda been like this for a year or so now.
Welcome Philipe!
Quote from: tower912 on September 04, 2026, 11:34:13 AMBrew's eeyore scenario certainly sets up what is to me a very interesting question.
After NMD in February, a poster reached out and recounted a conversation he had with high ranking MU officials.
Shaka's seat was ice cold.
MU would be active in the portal
Two were leaving. (Sheek shocked us all)
No GM.
MU would spend to keep the young stars.
The thing the high ranking official said that will be sorely tested in Brew's scenario is that MU doesn't run off players. They constantly communicate, they discuss roles and other recruits.
But the decision to stay or go is the player's.
The information turned out to be pretty good. Will that part of Shaka's/MU's philosophy change?
I do think that Shaka's smart enough to strongly encourage a guy to leave without "running him off" so that he can keep his hands technically clean but still encourage transfers.
Like you can say "we've fielded calls from XYZ that are looking to offer you $$ and we're only going to pay $ given what you've shown and the MPG you're expected to play are dropping considering this other guy just leaped you. You know you're welcome back but this is the reality and I encourage you to make the best choice for your love of playing basketball and financial situation"
Does anyone know how he'd fit into Brian Wardle's offensive system?
Quote from: Galway Eagle on September 04, 2026, 11:44:56 AMI do think that Shaka's smart enough to strongly encourage a guy to leave without "running him off" so that he can keep his hands technically clean but still encourage transfers.
Like you can say "we've fielded calls from XYZ that are looking to offer you $$ and we're only going to pay $ given what you've shown and the MPG you're expected to play are dropping considering this other guy just leaped you. You know you're welcome back but this is the reality and I encourage you to make the best choice for your love of playing basketball and financial situation"
I think this is 100% accurate.
Quote from: MuggsyB on September 04, 2026, 11:19:41 AMAgain, "past precedents" and "trends" aren't black and white nor clearly illustrate your point. That doesn't mean you can't be skeptical, but I believe judgement should be reserved until after the kid has some playing time for us.
I reserved judgment for Hamilton twice when the staff said he'd have a major impact. I reserved judgment when the staff said that Josh Clark was either an amazing find and everyone would regret letting him come here or they'd look stupid. I reserved judgment for Keeyan and Amadou and Gold. The only one to pan out was Ben, who basically developed into a replacement level player but never took that final step.
Once bitten, twice shy. Four times bitten, maybe it's your fault for sticking your hand in the shark's mouth so many times.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 11:55:48 AMI reserved judgment for Hamilton twice when the staff said he'd have a major impact. I reserved judgment when the staff said that Josh Clark was either an amazing find and everyone would regret letting him come here or they'd look stupid. I reserved judgment for Keeyan and Amadou and Gold. The only one to pan out was Ben, who basically developed into a replacement level player but never took that final step.
Once bitten, twice shy. Four times bitten, maybe it's your fault for sticking your hand in the shark's mouth so many times.
I respectfully disagree with your analogy Brew. Let me explain why:
You're 1000% correct about these colossal whiffs by Shaka. There's no sugarcoating it and we all saw the utter futility of these players on the floor. I will even take it a step further and reiterate that if "26-27 is another disaster for MU hoops, a contingent of Scoopers should show Shaka the door.
Here's my retort: You must take into account the really great/good decisions Shaka has made roster wise during his tenure at MU. You cannot discuss this in a two year window vacuum, or from player to player comps, that seemingly validate a particular narrative. The success or failure of the new players on our roster have absolutely nothing to do with Caedin, Josh, Al, Tyko, OMax, Nigel, or anyone else we've had in past seasons.
Quote from: MuggsyB on September 04, 2026, 12:35:29 PMI will even take it a step further and reiterate that if "26-27 is another disaster for MU hoops, a contingent of Scoopers should show Shaka the door.
;D ;D ;D
Hamilton and Amadou didn't work out, therefore the guy who was right about Kolek, Oso, Kam, OMax, Parham and James should never be trusted again.
(https://media.tenor.com/h0pmoG-PWswAAAAM/16-candles.gif)
Every coach recruits guys who don't pan out.......and others who exceed projections.
It happened with Buzz, Crean, Bo Ryan, Hurley......and yes it's happened with Shaka.
Many thought Tyler was a bust after year 1.........some thought we needed to go to the portal when Kur graduated......Shaka said Oso would be fine.
He was wrong on Keeyan, Amadou and probably Hamilton.......not ready to right off Clark yet.
This kid seems to have an offensive skill set that is intriguing........just needs strength.....time will tell but let's give him a chance before trashing the commitment.
Ndong also had an offer from Creighton .........Clark and Hamilton were spring recruits without any high major offers.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on September 04, 2026, 11:37:11 AMThe current admin messed with brew's happy, and he's kinda been like this for a year or so now.
I'd love to be more optimistic. As soon as the admin and staff gives me reason to be, I will. But when they move into a field of rakes and challenge each other to see who can step on the most, I'm going to call a spade a spade.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 01:05:48 PMI'd love to be more optimistic. As soon as the admin and staff gives me reason to be, I will. But when they move into a field of rakes and challenge each other to see who can step on the most, I'm going to call a spade a spade.
Are rakes part of the spade family?
Quote from: Uncle Rico on September 04, 2026, 01:06:22 PMAre rakes part of the spade family?
I do not dig this conversation, you best leaf it alone.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on September 04, 2026, 01:08:39 PMI do not dig this conversation, you best leaf it alone.
Metal rakes can dig, but bamboo and plastic? Not so much. Spades can't really rake, so I don't think they're necessarily in the same family.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 09:31:35 AMI hope for the best with Ndong and would love to see him thrive here and outperform the expectations Adam Finkelstein and myself have for him.
That said, I just don't get this. Recruiting is changing. Taking a project when you could redshirt them and transfers had to sit out, making the move less appealing, made sense in 2017. But now it's 2027.
Every assessment of this guy indicates he's a project. As good as Jaxson Hayes was for Shaka at Texas and as good as Oso turned out to be after barely playing his freshmen year, we've seen 5 project bigs (Keeyan, Amadou, Gold, Hamilton, Clark) and the only one to develop to even the rotation player level was Gold.
High major programs are moving away from high school players. If you can get a top-50 kid, great. But otherwise, it makes more sense to dedicate roster spots to players with a proof of concept. Everyone always asks "oh yeah, who would willingly take a bench role?" How about Fred King at Creighton, Wilson Jacques at DePaul, NJ Benson at Georgetown, Samson Aletan at Providence, and Nikolaus Chitikoudis at Xavier? All of them are more proven big bodies that are D1 ready.
Some services have Ndong top-100. That's fine for him, but I'm of the opinion that the lowest level of high school players we should target are in the Egbuonu range. This just feels like we're trying to build rosters the same way we always did. It garnered mixed results before and seems likely to only push is further back if we stick with it going forward.
It's possible (but maybe unlikely) that 7 of our top 8 are all back next year. So with 15 roster spots I don't really get the concern in this particular instance.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on September 04, 2026, 01:09:56 PMMetal rakes can dig, but bamboo and plastic? Not so much. Spades can't really rake, so I don't think they're necessarily in the same family.
If you get a diesel powered jet blower it could probably do both jobs.
Subscribe to my podcast for more fun facts.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on September 04, 2026, 01:12:33 PMIf you get a diesel powered jet blower it could probably do both jobs.
Subscribe to my podcast for more fun facts.
Have you seen diesel prices? No, thanks.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on September 04, 2026, 10:17:14 AMYeah the seat is certainly warm. All that matters are W's.
I don't think the seat is remotely warm as of today.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on September 04, 2026, 01:15:26 PMI don't think the seat is remotely warm as of today.
If this season tanks (it won't) they will absolutely let him go.
Missing the post season in back to back years will drive ticket sales down so far they'll be forced to make a move.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on September 04, 2026, 01:11:45 PMIt's possible (but maybe unlikely) that 7 of our top 8 are all back next year. So with 15 roster spots I don't really get the concern in this particular instance.
I agree. Presuming one or two current players will leave based on limited playing time.
Ndong is a viable candidate to redshirt, put on some substantial weight and hone his skills.
Quote from: nyg on September 04, 2026, 01:59:04 PMI agree. Presuming one or two current players will leave based on limited playing time.
Ndong is a viable candidate to redshirt, put on some substantial weight and hone his skills.
There are no redshirts anymore
Quote from: MuMark on September 04, 2026, 02:00:35 PMThere are no redshirts anymore
OK, thanks.
He then is #15 at end of bench and does the things I mentioned. Hope it works out better than Shaka's previous projects, one will eventually shine.
Quote from: MuMark on September 04, 2026, 02:00:35 PMThere are no redshirts anymore
Time to pay a prep school to be where we stash our projects for a year.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 09:58:06 AMCrowdis, Miletic, and Walker all sound like guys that probably shouldn't be playing much.
Hmmm, anti-traditional bias, Brew?
Seriously, I'm basically with you on the projects. Let's hope the development happens.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 10:50:28 AMAt this point, my expectation of NEPSAC players is that they're probably going to disappoint whatever my expectations are. What makes 3-star Ndong more promising than Itejere or Amadou were?
With Fru eligible to return (by age) that means we're one over for next year. And while the staff won't say this, they absolutely are trying to add at least two more freshmen for next year.
If that comes to pass, we're running off 3 to start with. So why bring in another project at a position we've had a 20% hit rate at so far (Gold the one success)? If you're running someone off, at least do it for a contributor, which Ndong seems 3 years away from being if it all goes well.
I feel like we should have gotten in on more Middlesex Magic players from the NEPSAC. Like JP Estrella. Or Tyler Kolek.
No highlight web links?
Quote from: Hards Alumni on September 04, 2026, 11:37:11 AMThe current admin messed with brew's happy, and he's kinda been like this for a year or so now.
I am with Brew here and also been "like this" for well over a year. Mubb has been basically a .500 team since Jan 1 2025. 23 wins and 20 losses if I counted correctly.
That is not acceptable. Full stop. Especially with the cash we spend.
Quote from: MUbiz on September 04, 2026, 03:53:13 PMI am with Brew here and also been "like this" for well over a year. Mubb has been basically a .500 team since Jan 1 2025. 23 wins and 20 losses if I counted correctly.
That is not acceptable. Full stop. Especially with the cash we spend.
Yeah we all know. None of us like it. But you can at least agree that meaningful steps have been made to right the ship. Probably.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on September 04, 2026, 03:55:14 PMYeah we all know. None of us like it. But you can at least agree that meaningful steps have been made to right the ship. Probably.
Have they? I don't have a hot dog because the marketing department stole all of them and it's physically impossible to buy anything MU related without the letters RGV on them, as you can tell from the new Championship collection. Jop just got yelled at for dribbling again, and O-Max fell down while failing to get a block. Things haven't been this bad since we were playing Derrick in front of Magic Dawson.
Keep the threes ringin'
Ring Nding Ndong! Ring a Nding Nding Nding Ndong!
Keep the threes ringin'
Ring Nding Ndong! Ring a Nding Nding Nding Ndong!
Uh yeah
Quote from: Its DJOver on September 04, 2026, 04:17:46 PMHave they? I don't have a hot dog because the marketing department stole all of them and it's physically impossible to buy anything MU related without the letters RGV on them, as you can tell from the new Championship collection. Jop just got yelled at for dribbling again, and O-Max fell down while failing to get a block. Things haven't been this bad since we were playing Derrick in front of Magic Dawson.
(https://c.tenor.com/yiqn86OJtfYAAAAC/tenor.gif)
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 09:31:35 AMI hope for the best with Ndong and would love to see him thrive here and outperform the expectations Adam Finkelstein and myself have for him.
That said, I just don't get this. Recruiting is changing. Taking a project when you could redshirt them and transfers had to sit out, making the move less appealing, made sense in 2017. But now it's 2027.
Every assessment of this guy indicates he's a project. As good as Jaxson Hayes was for Shaka at Texas and as good as Oso turned out to be after barely playing his freshmen year, we've seen 5 project bigs (Keeyan, Amadou, Gold, Hamilton, Clark) and the only one to develop to even the rotation player level was Gold.
High major programs are moving away from high school players. If you can get a top-50 kid, great. But otherwise, it makes more sense to dedicate roster spots to players with a proof of concept. Everyone always asks "oh yeah, who would willingly take a bench role?" How about Fred King at Creighton, Wilson Jacques at DePaul, NJ Benson at Georgetown, Samson Aletan at Providence, and Nikolaus Chitikoudis at Xavier? All of them are more proven big bodies that are D1 ready.
Some services have Ndong top-100. That's fine for him, but I'm of the opinion that the lowest level of high school players we should target are in the Egbuonu range. This just feels like we're trying to build rosters the same way we always did. It garnered mixed results before and seems likely to only push is further back if we stick with it going forward.
The fact you're comparing him to Oso, Hayes, Clark, Hamilton, Keeyan, and Amadou tells me you watched even less than the 2 minute highlight film I figured you watched. He's not a 5. He's a wing whose biggest strength is his shooting. He plays like Michael Philips played.
Finkelstien also had great things to say about Tre Norman. Not super concerned with what he has to say about someone he's seen maybe a game of.
And if we're out on guys ranked in the 90s, Nigel James isn't good enough to join our program until a couple years at Iona.
I'm not saying I think this kid is a sure fire star in the making. But with 15 roster spots, not every player you bring in is going to be a rotational player year one in the program.
Most of the team is back next year, there really is not much playing time unless Fru leaves, add a center Porter leaves, Pemberton would play. Both those recruits will not play much.
Quote from: wadesworld on September 04, 2026, 04:43:10 PMThe fact you're comparing him to Oso, Hayes, Clark, Hamilton, Keeyan, and Amadou tells me you watched even less than the 2 minute highlight film I figured you watched. He's not a 5. He's a wing whose biggest strength is his shooting. He plays like Michael Philips played.
Finkelstien also had great things to say about Tre Norman. Not super concerned with what he has to say about someone he's seen maybe a game of.
And if we're out on guys ranked in the 90s, Nigel James isn't good enough to join our program until a couple years at Iona.
I'm not saying I think this kid is a sure fire star in the making. But with 15 roster spots, not every player you bring in is going to be a rotational player year one in the program.
I'm old enough to remember the revelation that was Juan Anderson's mix tape and I'm old enough to remember people telling me earlier this summer that Crowdis was going to play based on his highlights.
The problem is twofold. First, we already have 6-7 players on the roster that likely won't be rotation players this year. We don't need more of that.
Second, the only 2026-27 players that won't be coming back in 2027-28 are ones that go to the Draft, fifth years whose eligibility is still in doubt, and a few Euros born before August 1, 2003. 99% of next year's players can come back, so I think it's a poor use of resources to dedicate spots when, if things go according to plan, we need to make 3 cuts next year before looking at the portal (+1 now, looking to add PG & Nyok).
If we're comfortable running 6 players off so we can make the additions we still need and have room to work what will likely be the best portal class ever, then this is fine. But this program clearly isn't comfortable running guys off even when it's clear they aren't HM players. I've seen enough of how Shaka operates to know that we shouldn't be taking anyone who doesn't have a clear, defined role going forward.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 08:11:38 PMI'm old enough to remember the revelation that was Juan Anderson's mix tape and I'm old enough to remember people telling me earlier this summer that Crowdis was going to play based on his highlights.
The problem is twofold. First, we already have 6-7 players on the roster that likely won't be rotation players this year. We don't need more of that.
Second, the only 2026-27 players that won't be coming back in 2027-28 are ones that go to the Draft, fifth years whose eligibility is still in doubt, and a few Euros born before August 1, 2003. 99% of next year's players can come back, so I think it's a poor use of resources to dedicate spots when, if things go according to plan, we need to make 3 cuts next year before looking at the portal (+1 now, looking to add PG & Nyok).
If we're comfortable running 6 players off so we can make the additions we still need and have room to work what will likely be the best portal class ever, then this is fine. But this program clearly isn't comfortable running guys off even when it's clear they aren't HM players. I've seen enough of how Shaka operates to know that we shouldn't be taking anyone who doesn't have a clear, defined role going forward.
With 15 roster spots, every single player brought in should have a "clear, defined role?!" So, just have an 8-9 player roster?
Shaka should not ditch recruiting high school players. That'd be awful. He also should continue hitting the portal. Which means most of the freshman he recruits will not be coming in with a spot in the rotation. Players retained and added in the portal will make up a large majority of the rotation. Freshman should hopefully develop into those retained players who fit into the rotation in future years.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 10:50:28 AMAt this point, my expectation of NEPSAC players is that they're probably going to disappoint whatever my expectations are. What makes 3-star Ndong more promising than Itejere or Amadou were?
With Fru eligible to return (by age) that means we're one over for next year. And while the staff won't say this, they absolutely are trying to add at least two more freshmen for next year.
If that comes to pass, we're running off 3 to start with. So why bring in another project at a position we've had a 20% hit rate at so far (Gold the one success)? If you're running someone off, at least do it for a contributor, which Ndong seems 3 years away from being if it all goes well.
Three years away you say. Lord I hope that is not the case.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 08:11:38 PMI'm old enough to remember the revelation that was Juan Anderson's mix tape and I'm old enough to remember people telling me earlier this summer that Crowdis was going to play based on his highlights.
The problem is twofold. First, we already have 6-7 players on the roster that likely won't be rotation players this year. We don't need more of that.
Second, the only 2026-27 players that won't be coming back in 2027-28 are ones that go to the Draft, fifth years whose eligibility is still in doubt, and a few Euros born before August 1, 2003. 99% of next year's players can come back, so I think it's a poor use of resources to dedicate spots when, if things go according to plan, we need to make 3 cuts next year before looking at the portal (+1 now, looking to add PG & Nyok).
If we're comfortable running 6 players off so we can make the additions we still need and have room to work what will likely be the best portal class ever, then this is fine. But this program clearly isn't comfortable running guys off even when it's clear they aren't HM players. I've seen enough of how Shaka operates to know that we shouldn't be taking anyone who doesn't have a clear, defined role going forward.
So if our starting 5 plus Phillips and Owens and maybe Egbuonu and Johnston all decide to come back after this season, why would there be any need to run 6 players off?
There's a good chance that's a top10-15 team right there. I'm not seeing the need to open up roster spots for a big portal haul in this scenario.
Quote from: wadesworld on September 04, 2026, 08:20:43 PMWith 15 roster spots, every single player brought in should have a "clear, defined role?!" So, just have an 8-9 player roster?
Yes, when roster spots 11-15 are already essentially dead spots.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on September 04, 2026, 09:16:38 PMSo if our starting 5 plus Phillips and Owens and maybe Egbuonu and Johnston all decide to come back after this season, why would there be any need to run 6 players off?
There's a good chance that's a top10-15 team right there. I'm not seeing the need to open up roster spots for a big portal haul in this scenario.
Every program in the country can bring everyone back. Retention is far less a superpower when virtually no one will have to leave through graduation.
Quote from: Bo Ryan's Massage Therapist on September 04, 2026, 10:38:45 AMWill his nickname be the Donger?
Maybe. And we all know that he will always be taking it to the hole with a massive jam exploding to the rack.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on September 04, 2026, 09:16:38 PMThere's a good chance that's a top10-15 team right there. I'm not seeing the need to open up roster spots for a big portal haul in this scenario.
Only if our players improve more than everyone else in the top 10-15 this year. There's no 2027 graduating class. Pretty much everyone can come back at every program across the country, and because of that the transfer portal will be deeper and better than it's ever been. If we aren't adding to improve in April, we'll be falling behind everyone else who is.
Quote from: wadesworld on September 04, 2026, 08:20:43 PMWith 15 roster spots, every single player brought in should have a "clear, defined role?!" So, just have an 8-9 player roster?
Shaka should not ditch recruiting high school players. That'd be awful. He also should continue hitting the portal. Which means most of the freshman he recruits will not be coming in with a spot in the rotation. Players retained and added in the portal will make up a large majority of the rotation. Freshman should hopefully develop into those retained players who fit into the rotation in future years.
He obviously should not ditch recruiting high school students. But offering a project in September when you have 12 more months to put together next year's team, feels like a relic in this era of roster building.
Obviously would love to be proven wrong.
I guess it depends on how a "project" is defined. He pretty clearly isn't going to come in and start day 1. Again, not every guy you bring into the program is going to with a 15 man roster.
He clearly needs to add weight. Most 17 year olds will need to to be ready for Big East basketball.
But just because Adam Finklestein made one comment about it doesn't mean he should be compared to Josh Clark and Caedin Hamilton, or even Amadou or Keeyan.
First, the games are not remotely similar. Second, yes one site has him ranked 144. But composite scores put him in the low 90s. Nigel James was 89. That "project" has worked out okay.
Quote from: MuMark on September 04, 2026, 11:16:23 AMRivals Jamie Shaw report from July 10
4-star F Philipe Ndong (2027) had perhaps the performance of the day in his second game of the Under Armour Next Live period. The 6-foot-10 forward is thin, but he is a fluid mover. He knocked down multiple threes, both off movement and off the bounce. He also attacked the basket from the wing. The Rivals four-star will need strength and to continue to streamline his game, but the upside here is massive. Marquette's Shaka Smart was in to watch as he finished with a game-high 16 points on three threes in the Middlesex Magic win. He is Rivals' No. 95 overall player in 2027 :D :D
Is he 6'8" or 6'10"?
My mark reported 6'10".
Probably 6' 7"
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 08:11:38 PMBut this program clearly isn't comfortable running guys off even when it's clear they aren't HM players.
brew: Didn't this program "run off" Lowery, Norman and Jones earlier this year and replace them on the roster with better players from the transfer portal?
Don't you think some of the likely-not-good-enough players you mentioned could be similarly run off next year to accommodate better players from the portal?
Quote from: MU82 on September 05, 2026, 05:03:56 PMbrew: Didn't this program "run off" Lowery, Norman and Jones earlier this year and replace them on the roster with better players from the transfer portal?
Don't you think some of the likely-not-good-enough players you mentioned could be similarly run off next year to accommodate better players from the portal?
Sean Jones and Tre were told they didnt have spots anymore back in like February. Im not worried about the staff not doing the same to some bench guys who dont develop this year and going forward.
Quote from: JTJ3 on September 05, 2026, 05:12:25 PMSean Jones and Tre were told they didnt have spots anymore back in like February. Im not worried about the staff not doing the same to some bench guys who dont develop this year and going forward.
Yup. I'm not certain Shaka will do it again because who knows ... but the precedent certainly seemed to have been set this past season.
Quote from: MU82 on September 05, 2026, 05:03:56 PMbrew: Didn't this program "run off" Lowery, Norman and Jones earlier this year and replace them on the roster with better players from the transfer portal?
Don't you think some of the likely-not-good-enough players you mentioned could be similarly run off next year to accommodate better players from the portal?
Lowery left on his own. Norman & Jones, yes. But it was the bare minimum they had to do. They didn't have the stomach to tell either big to move on and weren't willing to pivot to add another big when Sheek left.
They picked at the bandaid, but when it started to sting, they refused to pull it all the way off.
Quote from: Stretchdeltsig on September 05, 2026, 01:34:22 PMMy mark reported 6'10".
Your mark is wrong. My mark said he is 6'2".
Maybe we could wait for the season to play out before deciding we need to fire the coach if he doesn't run off a 3rd of the roster?............I'm sure there will be turnover................my goodness one recruit that some people don't like and it's over.......blow it up!
Last season was tough but this is all just a little bit much for me.
Quote from: MuMark on September 05, 2026, 07:22:46 PMMaybe we could wait for the season to play out before deciding we need to fire the coach if he doesn't run off a 3rd of the roster?............I'm sure there will be turnover................my goodness one recruit that some people don't like and it's over.......blow it up!
Last season was tough but this is all just a little bit much for me.
Yup. And for some reason some posters seem to think Ndong is a center. They're clearly just complaining to complain, because if they think he's a center then they know nothing about him.
Quote from: MuMark on September 05, 2026, 07:22:46 PMMaybe we could wait for the season to play out before deciding we need to fire the coach if he doesn't run off a 3rd of the roster?
We're +1 for next year and trying to add two more freshmen. That's 20% of the roster being run off. I'm not asking for much more than the staff is already planning for.
We've seen what happens when we don't have transfers. This is just the reality of roster building.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 05, 2026, 06:01:50 PMLowery left on his own. Norman & Jones, yes. But it was the bare minimum they had to do. They didn't have the stomach to tell either big to move on and weren't willing to pivot to add another big when Sheek left.
They picked at the bandaid, but when it started to sting, they refused to pull it all the way off.
Hmm.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 04, 2026, 10:12:48 PMYes, when roster spots 11-15 are already essentially dead spots.
Every program in the country can bring everyone back. Retention is far less a superpower when virtually no one will have to leave through graduation.
Everyone can bring everyone back but that doesn't mean that will happen. Are you assuming no programs will lose players they don't want to lose?
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 05, 2026, 08:56:25 AMOnly if our players improve more than everyone else in the top 10-15 this year. There's no 2027 graduating class. Pretty much everyone can come back at every program across the country, and because of that the transfer portal will be deeper and better than it's ever been. If we aren't adding to improve in April, we'll be falling behind everyone else who is.
Oh, I see...I guess you know none of the other top 10-15 teams this season will lose anyone to professional basketball. How often does that happen again?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on September 06, 2026, 07:42:22 PMEveryone can bring everyone back but that doesn't mean that will happen. Are you assuming no programs will lose players they don't want to lose?
They will, but that will open up the opportunity to add players in the strongest ever transfer portal.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on September 06, 2026, 07:42:22 PMOh, I see...I guess you know none of the other top 10-15 teams this season will lose anyone to professional basketball. How often does that happen again?
Sure. But you're acting like it's 2021, when 353 players declared for the draft. It's not. 61 players declared last year and 35 of them pulled their names out. Only 26 underclassmen stayed in the draft.
If you aren't a certain NBA pick, you aren't going. You'll look at the next most lucrative option, which is clearly college basketball. And in some cases, you'll get guys back in college who are certain NBA picks. NIL has ended the college to NBA exodus. Yes, the tip-top will continue to move on, but college retention is better than ever and will never be better than it is next year.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 07, 2026, 10:00:05 AMIf you aren't a certain NBA pick, you aren't going.
Bryson Tucker disagrees.
Rivals just updated 2027 rankings
Ndong at 71
https://x.com/rivals/status/2097339179201974739?s=61
Who cares? Shaka shouldn't be recruiting anyone outside of the top 70.
And if Ndong gets moved up to #52 during or after his senior season, Shaka shouldn't be recruiting anyone outside of the top 50.
And if Ndong gets moved up to #28 ...
Shaka should only be recruiting elite upperclassmen transfers originally from Cadott. Since he isn't doing anything at all.
Quote from: tower912 on September 08, 2026, 11:44:54 AMShaka should only be recruiting elite upperclassmen transfers originally from Cadott. Since he isn't doing anything at all.
Cadott is halfway between the North and South Pole.
It's also the land god forgot.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on September 08, 2026, 11:46:54 AMCadott is halfway between the North and South Pole.
It's also the land god forgot.
Waiting for Cadott. Sounds like a great name for a theater production.
Quote from: MuMark on September 08, 2026, 10:31:22 AMRivals just updated 2027 rankings
Ndong at 71
https://x.com/rivals/status/2097339179201974739?s=61
The Maquette effect.
Quote from: MuMark on September 08, 2026, 10:31:22 AMRivals just updated 2027 rankings
Ndong at 71
https://x.com/rivals/status/2097339179201974739?s=61
We don't want any top-75 projects around here!!!
By the way, congratulations, young man, on the ranking. Your hard work and improvement was noted. Well done and keep it going.
Quote from: MuMark on September 08, 2026, 10:31:22 AMRivals just updated 2027 rankings
Ndong at 71
https://x.com/rivals/status/2097339179201974739?s=61
Admittedly, I don't follow recruiting that closely, and I know there are more recruiting services than can easily be counted, but is it normal to only have 6 five star recruits in a class?
MuMark says the kid is 6'10" and ranks 71, so he's gotta be good.
Quote from: Stretchdeltsig on September 08, 2026, 06:32:22 PMMuMark says the kid is 6'10" and ranks 71, so he's gotta be good.
He's 6'9"
I'm pretty sure this dude is going to play PF and some SF. If his Rivals ranking at 71 is any indication, this is a good long-term signing if he stays because he'll be able to fill out and develop while Royce, DO, and MPIII use up their eligibility. If he can slot in alongside Alex Egbuonu and Ethan Johnston, that's a nice trio of lengthy switchables.
The scholarship table on Anonymous Eagle is a mess right now because we're slated to be completely full. If Fru is able to return then we're over. I also really don't like the idea of rolling with just Clark/Hamilton at center even if they improve.
I think we're going to have to drop a few players at some point. Best case scenario is Caedin transfers down to grab some more minutes. I'm perplexed by Colton Crowdis because no one can tell us if he's a walk-on or not. I think Ian Miletic might benefit from going to the A10 (Loyola Chicago would be happy to have him if he wants to head home). Nash Walker is also a mystery.
It amazes me how quickly new signees and freshmen who have not yet even stepped into a live game are written-off and pegged as transfer-bait by some on this board.
Quote from: RubyWiscy on September 09, 2026, 12:45:19 PMIt amazes me how quickly new signees and freshmen who have not yet even stepped into a live game are written-off and pegged as transfer-bait by some on this board.
Well, when the first thing 247's recruiting guru basically says is "he's a project," it makes people queasy.
Quote from: RubyWiscy on September 09, 2026, 12:45:19 PMIt amazes me how quickly new signees and freshmen who have not yet even stepped into a live game are written-off and pegged as transfer-bait by some on this board.
Im ready to cut em all, given that all of them are averaging 0 pts per game over the past 2 weeks
Quote from: The Sultan on September 09, 2026, 12:48:14 PMWell, when the first thing 247's recruiting guru basically says is "he's a project," it makes people queasy.
If it makes you feel any better that same guy said Tre Norman would be ready to contribute as a freshman.
Everybody has misses.........especially recruiting guru's who try to rank 100s of players.....some of whom they've seen play only a few times.
I just try to be pragmatic about it.......expect some misses and some studs.....and many in between.
Just don't know who's who until they get here and start competing.........and sometimes not even then........ie Oso.
Quote from: The Sultan on September 09, 2026, 12:48:14 PMWell, when the first thing 247's recruiting guru basically says is "he's a project," it makes people queasy.
But is that an Al Amadou type project or an O-Max Prosper type project?
None of us know.
Quote from: MuMark on September 09, 2026, 01:16:50 PMIf it makes you feel any better that same guy said Tre Norman would be ready to contribute as a freshman.
Everybody has misses.........especially recruiting guru's who try to rank 100s of players.....some of whom they've seen play only a few times.
I just try to be pragmatic about it.......expect some misses and some studs.....and many in between.
Just don't know who's who until they get here and start competing.........and sometimes not even then........ie Oso.
Exactly, but some people are extremely black pilled doomers who feel like the sky has already fallen all the way out past 2027.
Quote from: SchnitzelBoy on September 09, 2026, 12:14:34 PMI'm perplexed by Colton Crowdis because no one can tell us if he's a walk-on or not. Nash Walker is also a mystery.
Crowdis is on scholarship. Going forward, no more walk-ons.
Walker had shoulder surgery in the spring. His recovery has not been rapid and he is behind from a developmental standpoint. Even when fully cleared for contact, defensive rotations and nuances take time.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on September 09, 2026, 01:35:00 PMBut is that an Al Amadou type project or an O-Max Prosper type project?
None of us know.
I can't copy from Twitter from this computer, but to get a good idea of Ndong's skillset and current body type, go to Ndong's twitter and he has a junior highlight him from March that will give you a good gauge at where he was at 6 months ago. Ndong is not the same as Oso or Brendan Bailey, but you will see similarities of each when watching that video, with the body and how he moves
I recently watched 2 of his Middlesex Magic games from July. He came off the bench and probably played 16-18 minutes of the 32 minute games and scored double figure both games. He hit something like 6-11 three pointers and added a couple runners and mid range pullups. His body needs building, but he has an above average skillset of shooting and handling at 6-8/6-9. The guy filming both games was from one of the summer filming groups and he was really impressed in both games with his shooting and ability to get his shot off. A guy sitting next to the guy filming at one game said that if he was a college coach he would be all over Ndong and get him in the weight room. All arms and legs right now, but the skillset is what stands out.
Just watched some clips and his shooting stroke looks pure. Would love to have an efficient stretch 4, especially if he can come off the as bench as a frosh/soph like Joplin
Quote from: tower912 on September 09, 2026, 01:55:15 PMCrowdis is on scholarship. Going forward, no more walk-ons.
But also, Crowdis is a "practice player" according to Shaka.
My guess is that if there's a spot for him to return, he will be welcome to. But if Shaka needs the spot for a better player, then Crowdis moves on.
There will be cuts after the 2026-27 season, just as there were after the 2025-26 season. All part of Shaka's evolution in basketball's new world. I'm really not sure why anybody thinks otherwise.
Quote from: MU82 on September 09, 2026, 04:43:39 PMThere will be cuts after the 2026-27 season, just as there were after the 2025-26 season. All part of Shaka's evolution in basketball's new world. I'm really not sure why anybody thinks otherwise.
It is reality now. Have to be able to stay competitive just like in the NFL and NBA and MLB.
Quote from: tower912 on September 09, 2026, 01:55:15 PMCrowdis is on scholarship. Going forward, no more walk-ons.
Crowdis is a roster spot. Unless there's new information I haven't seen anything from Marquette indicating he's on scholarship.
Quote from: brewcity77 on September 09, 2026, 05:18:09 PMCrowdis is a roster spot. Unless there's new information I haven't seen anything from Marquette indicating he's on scholarship.
WTF, why would there be? This is insane.
You think MU is going to use one of their roster slots and be like... 'yeah dude.. you can be on the roster, but you gotta pay your own way. Hey guys, everyone else has their education paid for.. and gets direct payments from us in addition to that.. but, eff this guy you're practicing with every day. Theology 101 ain't free, mfr!!!'
Come on.
Quote from: TedBaxter on September 09, 2026, 02:01:37 PMI can't copy from Twitter from this computer, but to get a good idea of Ndong's skillset and current body type, go to Ndong's twitter and he has a junior highlight him from March that will give you a good gauge at where he was at 6 months ago. Ndong is not the same as Oso or Brendan Bailey, but you will see similarities of each when watching that video, with the body and how he moves
I recently watched 2 of his Middlesex Magic games from July. He came off the bench and probably played 16-18 minutes of the 32 minute games and scored double figure both games. He hit something like 6-11 three pointers and added a couple runners and mid range pullups. His body needs building, but he has an above average skillset of shooting and handling at 6-8/6-9. The guy filming both games was from one of the summer filming groups and he was really impressed in both games with his shooting and ability to get his shot off. A guy sitting next to the guy filming at one game said that if he was a college coach he would be all over Ndong and get him in the weight room. All arms and legs right now, but the skillset is what stands out.
Ah. The high school videotape which is famously never wrong.
MU can only have 15 players on there team, so how it looks for next year, I see Crowdis leaving. I can also see Hamilton who should graduate next year gone as well, the little point will be gone as well. Then I can see one of forwards leaving which will leave 4 openings, Fru might be 5.
But if he leaves I see a portal player getting his money.
Quote from: BCHoopster on September 09, 2026, 08:59:19 PMMU can only have 15 players on there team, so how it looks for next year, I see Crowdis leaving. I can also see Hamilton who should graduate next year gone as well, the little point will be gone as well. Then I can see one of forwards leaving which will leave 4 openings, Fru might be 5.
But if he leaves I see a portal player getting his money.
Their/there/they're.
Maybe just stop using commas altogether. You clearly have no idea when they should be used.
You think I care about that, nope
Quote from: BCHoopster on September 09, 2026, 10:01:02 PMYou think I care about that, nope
You don't know enough about the language to care.
Quote from: Jay Bee on September 09, 2026, 07:58:55 PMWTF, why would there be? This is insane.
You think MU is going to use one of their roster slots and be like... 'yeah dude.. you can be on the roster, but you gotta pay your own way. Hey guys, everyone else has their education paid for.. and gets direct payments from us in addition to that.. but, eff this guy you're practicing with every day. Theology 101 ain't free, mfr!!!'
Come on.
So then Braeden Brenn must also be getting paid for just because?
Quote from: The Sultan on September 09, 2026, 08:50:22 PMAh. The high school videotape which is famously never wrong.
Sorry for posting the info about what I've seen from Ndong. Thought someone might be interested in a description of what Ndong's current capabilities are. I didn't paint the picture of someone who was going to come in and join the playing rotation right away next year or any other year for that matter, and it was just so people might want to investigate some of the video's online to see what he looks like in a highlight video in high school games and then in an AAU setting.
Again, sorry for the inconvenience and this is the highlight video that shows some of his skills from last prep season.
.
https://x.com/philipe_ndong/status/2034356924922093603
Thanks, Ted.
Quote from: TedBaxter on September 10, 2026, 06:55:27 AMSorry for posting the info about what I've seen from Ndong. Thought someone might be interested in a description of what Ndong's current capabilities are. I didn't paint the picture of someone who was going to come in and join the playing rotation right away next year or any other year for that matter, and it was just so people might want to investigate some of the video's online to see what he looks like in a highlight video in high school games and then in an AAU setting.
Again, sorry for the inconvenience and this is the highlight video that shows some of his skills from last prep season.
.
https://x.com/philipe_ndong/status/2034356924922093603
What are you apologizing for? The videotape highlights, along with Scooper evaluations of those highlights, are always 100% spot on.
Quote from: TedBaxter on September 10, 2026, 06:55:27 AMSorry for posting the info about what I've seen from Ndong. Thought someone might be interested in a description of what Ndong's current capabilities are. I didn't paint the picture of someone who was going to come in and join the playing rotation right away next year or any other year for that matter, and it was just so people might want to investigate some of the video's online to see what he looks like in a highlight video in high school games and then in an AAU setting.
Again, sorry for the inconvenience and this is the highlight video that shows some of his skills from last prep season.
.
https://x.com/philipe_ndong/status/2034356924922093603
Your insights are always appreciated
Quote from: TedBaxter on September 10, 2026, 06:55:27 AMSorry for posting the info about what I've seen from Ndong. Thought someone might be interested in a description of what Ndong's current capabilities are. I didn't paint the picture of someone who was going to come in and join the playing rotation right away next year or any other year for that matter, and it was just so people might want to investigate some of the video's online to see what he looks like in a highlight video in high school games and then in an AAU setting.
Again, sorry for the inconvenience and this is the highlight video that shows some of his skills from last prep season.
.
https://x.com/philipe_ndong/status/2034356924922093603
You did more than just post videos. You actually watched him play entire games and provided your impressions of what you saw, and you certainly weren't over the top with praise. Most here appreciated it. Don't let the Scoop Police get you down.
Thank you, Ted.
Quote from: The Sultan on September 10, 2026, 07:02:45 AMWhat are you apologizing for? The videotape highlights, along with Scooper evaluations of those highlights, are always 100% spot on.
Scooper evaluations aren't the only ones who are wrong ... Many here are in good company with this guy:
https://x.com/MikeYagmin/status/1567303891187863554
Quote from: MUbiz on September 10, 2026, 04:23:26 PMScooper evaluations aren't the only ones who are wrong ... Many here are in good company with this guy:
https://x.com/MikeYagmin/status/1567303891187863554
I would be more than happy to be wrong. But posting highlight videos and thinking they mean something is lol-worthy.
Players exceed expectations and fail to live up to expectations every season in every sport.
Y'all have to stop treating it as a personal insult.
BTW, Juan Toscano-Anderson, sometimes cited as the poster child of not living up to their hype video, ended up playing in the NBA. Not every journey is linear.
Quote from: tower912 on September 10, 2026, 04:45:05 PMPlayers exceed expectations and fail to live up to expectations every season in every sport.
Y'all have to stop treating it as a personal insult.
BTW, Juan Toscano-Anderson, sometimes cited as the poster child of not living up to their hype video, ended up playing in the NBA. Not every journey is linear.
And was a complete disappointment at Marquette.
As I said, not every journey is linear.
Disappointing is failing to take the lessons of MU out into the world. Instead falling prey to bitterness and negativity that supercedes logic and empathy.
Quote from: tower912 on September 10, 2026, 05:02:19 PMAs I said, not every journey is linear.
Disappointing is failing to take the lessons of MU out into the world. Instead falling prey to bitterness and negativity that supercedes logic and empathy.
I am certainly not bitter. At all. Juan worked his ass off here. But we are talking about Marquette recruiting on a Marquette message board. And he was a disappointment all things considered.
So I'm not the one who is failing at logic here.
I think we should ban highlights. And maybe dancing as well
Juan Anderson's mixtape is legendary.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on September 10, 2026, 07:18:45 PMJuan Anderson's mixtape is legendary.
Right. And a certain dipsh*t thinks I'm "bitter" because he didn't live up to it.
But of course he doesn't understand the point.
Quote from: JakeBarnes on September 10, 2026, 06:16:37 PMI think we should ban highlights. And maybe dancing as well
Jake,
That made me laugh.
Quote from: The Sultan on September 10, 2026, 07:24:09 PMRight. And a certain dipsh*t thinks I'm "bitter" because he didn't live up to it.
But of course he doesn't understand the point.
To be fair, you started this nonsense with a douchey response to an innocuous post that simply shared some thoughts on some video without making any predictions or grand proclamations.
Quote from: tower912 on September 10, 2026, 05:02:19 PMAs I said, not every journey is linear.
Disappointing is failing to take the lessons of MU out into the world. Instead falling prey to bitterness and negativity that supercedes logic and empathy.
Annnnnnddd Towers brings the velvet hammer
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on September 10, 2026, 07:56:47 PMTo be fair, you started this nonsense with a douchey response to an innocuous post that simply shared some thoughts on some video without making any predictions or grand proclamations.
To be fair, I don't give a sh*t.
Quote from: TSmith34, Inc. on September 10, 2026, 08:14:52 PMAnnnnnnddd Towers brings the velvet hammer
??? I was specifically talking about performance at Marquette. Bringing up what a random player did after isn't relevant to the discussion.
Quote from: The Sultan on September 10, 2026, 08:42:07 PMTo be fair, I don't give a sh*t.
Clearly.
Plenty of instances where your snark is well-deserved. This wasn't one of them.
Snark should be reserved for games that actually matter for seeding, like exhibitions.
Nm