2009 Season Ticket Packages are on sale at GoDuke.com
When you are talking about the Duke defense in 2009, you can start with Vinnie Rey. The senior linebacker is ready to bring it to the field this season and will be counted on to ease the loss of All ACC teammate Michael Tauiliili. Rey was a defensive star last season for the Blue Devils and at times is a tackling machine. Blue Devil Nation took in spring practice and was able to talk with Rey and get his thoughts on the linebacking unit and more -
Coach Cutcliffe just said that he sees you stepping up on this team and being a leader. What are your thoughts on that?
In terms of being a vocal leader, that just comes with confidence. It means watching film and listening to what Coach wants and carry that to the field. We have other linebackers that are leaders like Damian Thornton, Abraham Kromah and Adam Banks. We watch a lot of film and we are working a lot and that brings confidence that allows us to play fast and be vocal on the field. That's from Coach Mac [Macintyre], he teaches us to do these things. Personally, I feel a lot more confident on the field.
This is your second year or spring under Coach Cut.
I feel that the difference from last year is there is another step we have to take. coaches are demanding a lot from us be it conditioning, playing fast, mental toughness on the field. Even if you might be tired or hurt not to show that which is something I have to work on. Just to be able to take the extra step and get better and better.
Some of the pundits are already saying the line backers could be a weak spot on defense. What do you think of the guys you have been working with this spring?
Well, to tell you the truth, we feel we can be one of the best units in the ACC. Our goal is to be the best bar none and it's all about bringing it every day which we continue to try and do. Every day we bring the intensity to the field - we make some mistakes, but as long as the intensity is there you can build off that. I don't see any reason why we can't be one of the best units on this team if not the best.
In the back of your mind are you already thinking about Richmond (home opener)?
(smiling) I do sometimes! One of our quotes is we prepare for Saturday today ... Saturday in 2009. We are thinking about them a little bit, but we are also thinking about stopping the guys on our offensive side in practice. We have to think about going up against the offensive line and beating them every play. How are we going to beat Richmond if we don't practice winning in practice?
Speaking of the offensive line, there were some major losses there. What has it been like going up against those guys so far this spring?
We have had some battles with them. I don't know that much about the trenches but toughness is a big issue. They've knocked us on the ground sometimes getting pancakes on us, but we've knocked them back sometimes. There has been some battles. All this stuff about linebackers or the offensive line being a weakness - we don't even care, we just go out and work hard every day. We'll see what happens when all is said and done.
Talk a little bit about your coaches ...
Coach Cu [Cutcliffe] t gives us several fundamental quotes and statements and we just go about it. Coach [Mike] Macintyre? He preaches hawking the ball. We have a board in our meeting room which shows how many times you hawked the ball and if your numbers are bad on the board it's kind of embarrassing, so you want to get those numbers high. That's an incentive to go out and hawk the ball every day.
And the bottom line is ...
We know how to work better. We know how to bring it. So, we bring it every day. One thing Coach Cut always says is you are either going to get better or you are going to get worse and I feel that we are getting better every day.
Duke Football is entering the stretch run of spring practice as they prepare for the 2009 season. David Cutcliffe is in his second year as coach of the Blue Devils and he hopes that last season's strides will help in building a solid football program at Duke University. Despite the shortage of bodies this spring, the atmosphere around practice prompted Cutciliffe to state, "We look like a football team."
The Duke staff returns intact, so the Blue Devils are showing the habits they learned last season early on this go round. The Blue Devils' senior leader, Thaddeus Lewis, took the time to discuss how practices were going with the Blue Devil Nation.
Thad, you are in your second year of spring drills under Coach Cutcliffe. Are there any differences this year?
We have a year of experience under our belt. We know what Coach expects out of us and he will continue to pound that into us day in and day out.
What have you worked on in the off season?
I got together with the offensive team and went through the plays which helps us to get better. We were young last year, so we did a lot of things in the off season so we would be prepared for spring and wouldn't look like a deer in the headlights.
There has been a lot of talk about the offensive line where Duke suffered some big losses and looks to rebuild. What can you tell me about them as a unit?
The offensive line doesn't get a lot of the credit they deserve. Those guys are working hard and getting a lot of little things corrected which helps them get better every day. A lot of people don't know about them, but I work with those guys and they are very talented and very good.
Duke will have more depth at the tight end position this season. What will that mean to you as a quarterback this season?
The tight end is the key to the offense. They are the guys who can mix it up out there. All those guys can block and catch.
What have Coach Roper and Cutcliffe talked to you about as practice has progressed? What has their message been to you?
That I am a senior and they are looking for leadership out of me. The biggest thing they want me to do is go out there and be consistent every day - not making the mistakes an experienced guy should make. They want me to watch a lot of film and come back with questions in order to lead this offense and put us in the right position this year.
As a team, Duke suffered some huge losses. Has there been anybody who has shown signs of stepping up and replacing a player like Michael Tauliliili?
We have guys like Vinnie Rey coming back and he will serve as a catalyst on the defense. And [Vince] Oghobasse on the front line - they challenge the other guys who have a chance to play this year to work hard. It's kind of tough to run the ball against those guys and that's what you like to see.
Are you already starting to think about Richmond [home opener]?
Definitely! That's always in the back of your mind, but our main focus is on spring ball. But I do remember my freshman year when they came in here and beat us 13-0. So when you see them on the schedule, of course you think about it. We will concentrate more on them in the summer. Right now? We are just working on getting our system down on both offense in defense.
Coach Cutcliffe mentioned earlier that the lack of bodies available for spring will make it difficult to do certain things ...
Well, with less players it's a lot easier for guys to cop out, but you see those guys try to go about it hard. We get more depth with reps, so that can be an advantage.
From a quarterback's standpoint, what players have impressed you the most on the offensive end this spring?
The tight ends with guys like Danny Parker, Brett Huffman and Brandon King coming back have looked good. All of the running backs have contributed, each and every one. And the young wide receivers with Johnny [Williams], Austin [Kelly] ... we have a lot of guys stepping up every time out. I've been excited with how they are coming along. I expected them to grasp it pretty fast, but they are doing a lot of things you wouldn't have expected right now. We have improved as a football team this spring.[/private]
One of the hottest names on the North Carolina high school Bbsketball scene is Deuce Bello. You are sure to hear about this rising star for he is making a name for himself with his athletic ability. Bello still has a ways to go before making his collegiate choice, for he is only a rising junior at [private] Westchester Academy in Rocky Mount, N.C.
He stands around 6'-2" or 6-'3" and still has a ways to go in developing his strength, but that is the standard need for improvement with a kid his age. BDN Premium caught up with Bello during the Carolina Challenge and got his thoughts on the recruiting process, where he already holds three offers.
"Schools are sending a lot of letters and I have three offers from Wake Forest, Oklahoma State and Baylor," said Bello. He continued, saying, "I have interest from Duke, Memphis, Maryland and USC."
Earlier this year, Duke Assistant Coach Nate James was able to see him play in Greensboro, and might have come away impressed enough to get Bello on the Blue Devils' watch list.
Bello then stated that he had no dream school growing up, but that he did prefer to play in a system where the players could get up and down the court. "I like to get out and run and drive and pick."
When asked what kind of defense he liked to play, Bello didn't hesitate when saying, "I like man to man."
He can also play either guard position, "Right now I am playing the point a lot, but I see myself as a shooting guard in college." With continued work Bello could become one of the highest rated wings in his class, but the upside is easy to see with this young man.
Bello has yet to plan any unofficial visits this summer and the rules prevent that from happening in AAU events which are played on or near schools during dead periods in recruiting. Like Wall, Bello will turn to Brian Clifton for advice when it comes time to get more serious with the process.
"I just like to hang out and work on my game and take care of school work," said Bello when asked about his off the court activities. In this day and time, prospects like Bello start playing basketball in the spring right up until high school practice starts. Bello will play with D-One Sports, the same AAU team that produced Ryan Kelly and John Wall.
It's a bit too early to gauge the Blue Devils' interest in Bello, but he is a kid worth keeping an eye on. During the Carolina Challenge, Bello dunked with ease, showed a nice mid-range game, and drained a three to help his team take a one point lead. I have now seen Bello play in just two games, so a full scouting report will come down the road. The one thing I can tell you is that Bello is a really good athlete who is already playing toe-to-toe with older kids. [/private]
There has been quite a bit of buzz on various message boards about John Wall contacting North Carolina Coach Roy Williams, or was it the other way around? The news traveled through the Duke, UNC and Kentucky forums at warp speed, each poster giving it more of a spin until the rumor mill was spinning like a tornado.
Wow! First, it was John Calapari's leaving Memphis for Kentucky, many of their fans claiming Wall was a package deal. Today, it was UNC's turn, despite the fact they are on the verge of a semi-final game in the Final Four. I made a few calls and got a different take from each person, almost as if they were making it up as they go.
I finally opened the Blue Devil Nation Premium Message Board and the sky was falling. I then saw that the News and Observer had talked to Wall's AAU Coach, Brian Clifton, about the situation, but he hadn't talked to Wall. What was left to do in order to figure this whirlwind out? Of course, talk to John himself, and that's what I did. So, here is the latest from the horse's mouth. And as always, BDN Premium just deals in the facts. That said, here they are -[private]
Wall had just finished a day at school where he is trying to close out the academic year in a strong way. Other than that, he is preparing for the Nike and the Jordan Brand Classic All Star Games.
It sounds like a lot has been going on today. The message boards at Duke, Kentucky and UNC are buzzing. I have heard that either you contacted UNC Coach Roy Williams or that he contacted you.
Did I contact him?
Yes ...
No, he contacted me.
When did that call take place?
Last night.
Can you talk of what he had to say? Was he getting involved in your recruitment or showing interest?
He really didn't say too much. He just said he wanted to call and keep in contact, but it's nothing major right now. We were just talking, he hasn't said he was interested yet. He is just getting ready for the Final Four and all that.
So, is there any truth that you contacted anyone at UNC to have him call you?
No sir.
Okay, just trying to get the facts straight. Will you likely talk to Roy Williams after the Final Four?.
Uh, that's what I am hop ... (cut short) that's what I think we are looking to do. But like I said, I don't really put too much into what's going on. He just called and that's basically it.
Has UNC been a school you had been interested in? Did you grow up a UNC fan?
I liked them like any other school that's around like Duke and N.C. State. I liked all those schools.
Do you feel as if UNC is getting in late at this point, or is this good timing?
I don't really know (obviously thinking about the question). I don't know if they are really in it or not, they just call and that's it.
Duke has made inroads and Kentucky is on the verge of making a push, is it odd to you in any way that Williams calls after these developments?
I don't know. I think he (Roy) just called to see how I was doing. If he calls back and we talk, I can let you know more about it, but all we had was a quick conversation. He asked how I was doing and that was basically it.
Have you had a chance to talk with John Calipari yet?
Naw, he called me the other night but I was asleep, so I will call him back today.
But you have been staying in touch with his assistant coaches that will likely follow him to Lexington?
Yes sir.
When is the last time you talked to Duke?
It was the day of the McDonald Game. I talked with Coach K.
How did that go?
We were just getting to know each other better?
What are your overall feelings about Duke at this point?
I think it's a great school, you know.
And N.C. State? Have you talked with them?
Um, they're still in there.
Have you been able to talk with Brian Clifton or anybody else since all these happenings?
No, not really. I'm just get ready for the Nike Hoops and Jordan game.
Are you still targeting the Jordan Brand game for a decision?
No. That's not going to be when I announce my decision anymore.
What's on your agenda next in regards to recruiting?
Probably taking a trip to Miami. I will make my decision shortly after that.
How many official visits have you actually been on?
Three.
You have one more visit besides Miami that you can still take. Is it fair to say that might be used for Kentucky?
I don't know yet, it could be reserved for anybody. I really don't know, you know.
But UNC would be like Duke in that you wouldn't necessarily have to take an official visit?
Yes sir.
Was it exciting that Roy called you and would you be willing to let them in?
I really don't know yet, we just have to talk about it. It's really like any other coach calling you. Carolina is a great school and he's a good coach, but I didn't really get all that excited, they are just like any other school.
I remember talking to your AAU and Word of God coach and they seem perturbed that UNC never really looked at you in a serious way early on. Is it fair to say that UNC never really came around until now?
They didn't really recruit me really hard , so ..,
Which school has been recruiting you the longest?
N.C. State.
Where to from here?
Just trying to finish school strong before the break and that's about it.
Thanks, for helping me get the facts straight and good luck in the coming all star games.
We've been really busy with hoops recruiting of late and missed getting a bit of news out there. Here are some releases from Duke Sports Information -
Abby Waner To Participate In The State Farm Three-Point Championship
DURHAM, N.C.
Duke University senior Abby Waner has been selected one of eight senior student-athletes to participate in the 21st Annual State Farm College Slam Dunk and Three-Point Championships at the Palace of Auburn Hills on Thursday, April 2 in conjunction with the NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four.
The contest will take place at 7:30 p.m., and then will air on ESPN from 9:00-11:00 p.m.
Waner, who is a product of Highlands Ranch, Colo., concluded her collegiate career as one of the top three-point shooters in Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) history. A 5-11 guard, Waner registered 222 career treys over four years to rank 12th on the ACC charts and first in the Blue Devil history books. She became the first Duke player and eighth ACC player to register 45 or more three-pointers in four consecutive years. Her 691 career three-pointers attempted ranks seventh in ACC history and first at Duke. Not only did Waner hit three-pointers, but she was a great all-around student-athlete as she became the fifth player in ACC history to notch over 1,400 points, 400 rebounds, 400 assists and 300 steals. Waner was also a two-time ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District selection. A two-time Naismith National Player of the Year candidate, Waner received the 2009 Robin Roberts/WBCA Broadcasting Scholarship and was a finalist for the Lowe’s Senior Class Award in 2009. She is a three-time All-ACC Tournament first team selection. As a senior, Waner averaged 9.7 points, 3.5 assists, 3.1 rebounds and 2.7 steals, while registering 55 three-pointers made.
Season tickets are available by calling the Duke Athletic Ticket Office at 1-877-375-DUKE or by logging on to GoDuke.com.
Duke Athletics Tour Schedule Set
DURHAM, N.C. -- The second annual Duke Athletics Tour featuring head football coach David Cutcliffe has secured eight stops between April 18 and May 21. The 2009 tour includes events in Charlotte (April 28), Asheville (April 29), Greenville (May 5), Richmond, Va. (May 6), Atlanta, Ga. (May 14), Sanford/Pinehurst (May 18), Greenville, S.C. (May 20) and Greensboro/High Point/Winston-Salem (May 21). All events are open to the public and will feature an autograph and photo opportunity with Cutcliffe, food and beverages and door prizes.
Dates for events in both Durham and Raleigh will be announced at a later time. "Last year's inaugural Duke Athletics Tour was a huge success," said Cutcliffe. "We're looking forward to spending time with our alumni and fans once again this spring."
For more information, please visit www.IronDukes.net or call Samantha Kozub (919-613-7554) or Whitney Dunlap (919-613-7557).
2009 DUKE ATHLETICS TOUR
CHARLOTTE, NC April 28
5:30-7:00 pm
Blackfinn American Saloon
210 East Trade (Epicentre)
Charlotte, NC 28202
ASHEVILLE, NC April 29
5:30-7:00 pm
Pack Place - The Forum
2 South Pack Square
Asheville, NC 28801
GREENVILLE, NC May 5
5:30-7:00 pm
Ronald C. Michels Center
2335 Hemby Lane
Greenville, NC 27834
RICHMOND, VA May 6
5:30-7:00 pm
Roslyn Conference Center
8727 River Road
Richmond, VA 23229
ATLANTA, GA May 14
6:00-7:30 pm
Fox Sports Grill
261 19th Street
Atlanta, GA 30363
SANFORD/PINEHURST, NC May 18
5:30-7:00 pm
The Barn
305 Rothney Avenue
Southern Pines, NC 28387
GREENVILLE, SC May 20
5:30-7:00 pm
Wild Wing Cafe
15 West Washington Street
Greenville, SC 29601
GREENSBORO/HIGH POINT/WINSTON-SALEM, NC May 21
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Henderson named All American
Wednesday, April 1
Henderson Named To 2009 Wooden All-American Team
LOS ANGELES - Junior Gerald Henderson was one of 11 players named to the 2009 John R. Wooden Award All-American Team as announced by the John R. Wooden Award Committee on Wednesday. Henderson picks up his third All-America honor of the season as he was also a second team selection by Foxsports.com and an Associated Press third team pick.
Henderson led the Blue Devils to a 30-7 record, the program's 11th ACC Championship and a trip to the NCAA Tournament Sweet Sixteen. He was tied for the team lead in scoring at 16.5 points per game, while also ranking second in rebounding (4.9 rpg.) and assists (91) and third in blocked shots (28) and steals (46). Henderson scored in double figures 31 times in 2008-09, including 11 games with 20 or more points scored.
A panel of more than 1,000 voters, comprised of sports media members and college basketball experts from around the nation, had until Monday to cast their votes, a long voting period that allowed voters to evaluate players up through games of the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament. Voters selected 10 players from the 24 student athletes listed on the ballot, and ranked them from 1 to 10. Wooden Award Voters were asked to take into account performance during the regular season and postseason through games last Sunday, as well as a player's character and academic performance, essential components of an outstanding player in the eyes of Coach John Wooden.
Because of a tie for 10th place in the voting, this year the Wooden All American Team consists of 11 players. The team in alphabetical order is DeJuan Blair (Pittsburgh), Stephen Curry (Davidson), Blake Griffin (Oklahoma), Tyler Hansbrough (North Carolina), Luke Harangody (Notre Dame), James Harden (Arizona State), Gerald Henderson (Duke), Ty Lawson (North Carolina), Hasheem Thabeet (Connecticut), Terrence Williams (Louisville) and Sam Young (Pittsburgh).
North Carolina and Pittsburgh both had two players selected to the team. The 2009 All American team features three seniors (Hansbrough, Williams and Young) five juniors, and three sophomores. The Big East tops the list with five Wooden All Americans, followed by the ACC with three. The Pac-10, Southern and Big 12 each have one representative.
Additionally, the top vote-getters and finalists for the Wooden Award, are invited to Los Angeles for the Wooden Award gala. The top finalists will be announced on Monday, April 6. The 2009 Award ceremony, which will include the presentation of the Men's and Women's Wooden Award winners, the Wooden Award All American Teams, and the Legends of Coaching Award to Rick Barnes of the University of Texas, will take place at The Los Angeles Athletic Club in Downtown Los Angeles on Friday, April 10th. The winners will receive a contribution from The Los Angeles Athletic Club for their university's general scholarship fund.
Men's 2009 Wooden Award All-American Team DeJuan Blair Pittsburgh
Stephen Curry # Davidson
Blake Griffin Oklahoma
Tyler Hansbrough ! North Carolina
Luke Harangody # Notre Dame
James Harden Arizona State
Gerald Henderson Duke
Ty Lawson North Carolina
Hasheem Thabeet Connecticut
Terrence Williams Louisville
Sam Young Pittsburgh
! - 2008 Wooden Award Winner
# - 2008 Wooden All American Team
04/01/2009 - Associated Press
McDonald's All American Game
CORAL GABLES, Fla. – Duke commitments Ryan Kelly and Mason Plumlee showcased their talent at the 32nd annual McDonald’s High School All-American game on Wednesday at the Bank United Center in Coral Gables, Fla.
Kelly, who won the three point shootout on Monday, started for the East squad and helped lead them to a 113-110 victory over Plumlee’s West team. The 6’10” Raleigh native, who attends Ravenscroft School, finished the game with six points and two rebounds.
Plumlee, a 6’11 forward from Warsaw, Ind. currently attends the Christ School in Arden, N.C. He tallied six points, four rebounds, two assists, two blocked shots and one steal for the West squad. Plumlee’s three-point attempt at the buzzer that would have tied the game hit off the rim.
All proceeds from the game will go to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Florida. Millions of dollars have been raised since the first Game was played in 1978. Every athlete who participated in the McDonald’s All American Game visited a local Ronald McDonald House in Miami earlier this week to experience first-hand how the games impact the local community.
During last season's Carolina Classic, Marshall Plumlee had a couple of breakout games where he showed his potential. Plumlee, of course, is the younger brother of Miles and Mason, both of whom are Duke Blue Devils. This coming season Marshall has a chance to start for Christ School. He plans on continuing to refine his game and build his strength during his last two years of high school. The talented Greenies lost all but four lettermen, but Coach David Gaines is already reloading and plans to make a run at their fourth consecutive North Carolina Private School State Championship.
While at this past weekend's Carolina Challenge, Marshall showed off some new moves against the state's best players. Plumlee showed a spin move in the lane which was quick and hard to stop for opposing players. When he goes to that move he takes up a lot of the lane with his length and 6'-10" frame.
The key for Marshall will be to forge his own identity in the coming season. This will be the first time Plumlee will be playing without his brothers at Christ School. Marshall sat down with BDN Premium for an exclusive one-on-one interview. He talked about making his own destiny, his brother's game in tonight's McDonald's All American game, and much more in a lengthy interview. We hope you enjoy his insights about having two brothers at Duke and what he expects to accomplish in the coming years.
Where did that spin move come from?
Oh from the top of the key? (smiling) I've been working on my ball handling and still have a long ways to go, but I'm going to keep working on it. I'm trying to add to my game whatever I can.
What goes into that work? What is your routine?
Basically, little bits and pieces of what I get at these kinds of camps. I listen to what coaches tell me. I go swimming in the morning so I can really run the floor well and have good conditioning. I always try every practice, even though I have a post mindset, to do all my ball handling with two basketballs. I need to do more, but it's a work in progress.
Have you been working out with your brother Mason?
[private] We've always worked out together a little bit, but this past year Mason and I have really spent some time together. Whether it is playing one-on-one, or the days when I don't feel like going to the gym, he gets me up and motivated.
I bet you have to get him up at times too ...
(paused to think) Uh, no not really. He's a workhorse so I'm trying to learn from him.
He has the McDonald's game. Is he already down there?
Yes, he left this morning (Saturday). I wish I could be there, but I'll be watching him on TV. It should be a lot of fun.
Yeah, it should be a lot of fun. Being in Miami this year, well, it's a long ways. Have you ever been on the beaches in Miami?
(shaking his head and smiling as if to know he was being set up) No sir.
Well, that might be a good thing. What has Coach Gaines told you to work on in the off season? You obviously have a situation this year where you will be building on your game. You have two years left and Christ School suffered some key losses.
Well this year, and I have agreed with him, my role has been the little stuff like running the floor, playing defense, stopping people. These next two years he really wants me to work on being stronger and an offensive threat. So I'm trying to work on a lot of my shots - my jump shot especially. Just try to add all the weapons I can to my offensive game.
What is the team prospectus for next season?
Well, there's a little bit of doubt whether we will be as good as we were this past season, but next year I hope we will be able to naysay the naysayers. I know of two new kids coming in that are very talented. A PG from Knoxville, Tennessee named Brandon Lopez. I'm excited to have a PG to work with. He seems like a good leader.
So, all of a sudden you are thrust into a leadership role ...
Yeah, all of a sudden! (smiling) Buts it's going to be easy because we have had a lot of good leaders to learn from in the past. Of course, Mason is a big brother, but we also had people like Lakeem Jackson. He helped me out.
You are looking forward to your chance to shine, right?
Yeah, I am looking forward to it, but regardless I am just worried about winning or a team contest.
Do you think Coach will go with twin towers next season?
(Laughed at the question) Twin Towers? One thing that's been nice in the past is with Miles and Mason at the school is that they've been able to go in together and we were even bigger off the bench. We won't have as many "tall towers" as you said, and Troutman and I will probably be playing together, which I like. We don't have as much, well, I don't want to say post depth, but height off the bench, so we will have to be in good condition.
Who will you room with next year?
I don't know yet. I like to switch it up each year. One year I roomed with P.H. Broyhill of Broyhill furniture fame.
Okay. So he could hook you up with the Lazy Boy couch and such ... a long one ...
(laughing) Last year I roomed with the the headmaster's son, a great kid, Jeff Kruger. Next year, I will room with a kid from Greensboro. So, not necessarily basketball players, but they're just a little ways down the hall. So, I will spend plenty of time with them.
How are your Mom and Dad doing these days? Are they going to the McDonald's game?
Yes. They're excited for Mason and I'm excited for Mason. Miles? I'm excited for him. I hope things go well for him next year at Duke after this year's rough ending.
It sounds as if you wished he'd played a little more this season ...
Miles Plumlee watched his younger brother play this past weekend
Yeah, there is always some frustration, but he continues to work on his game. I think if he keeps working .. it's a frustrating process, because we as a family know what he is capable of. He's a superstar. We think the world of him and I hope he gets the chance to show the world what we already know he can do next season.
Well, I think he might next season for I have head that the coaches are expecting a big improvement and for him to take on a bigger role. With Duke being a taller team next season, with just three players in the back court at this point, they will draw up schemes for their personnel.
They will definitely put him to work, so I'm excited for him. There has been a little frustration, but he's been positive and kept his head up. From a team aspect, he works hard in practice helping other guys to get better and he takes advantage when he is able to get in the game.
Well, he got a cheerleader girlfriend out of the deal ... (smiling as they had come to see him play in his last game).
(laughing) Yeah ... I don't know, I don't know if you necessarily need that in your first year ...
Miles took a big load upon himself when he first came to Duke with his major ...
Yeah, he's always dreamed of being an engineer. It's tough when you are up until 2:00 in the morning doing homework and the next day you have a game. He's definitely keeping his academics up despite switch out. Academics are big for him.
Tell me about your self as a person ... I guess you don't have a lot of time with school and all.
School work is pretty tough at Christ School. I learned that the hard way during the basketball season and my parents gave me a little bit of a slap on the wrist. (smiling) In my free time? It's beautiful here in North Carolina and I've been taking advantage. I've been kayaking even though I have a hard time fitting in the kayak. (continuing to smile). I go caving. I went with Mason and that's been a lot of fun doing things outside and taking advantage of that.
Not so much like Indiana?
Indiana is just flat.
Now your Mom! I hear she is a little bit tougher than what she shows on the exterior ...
(smiling) I never watched her play college basketball but I hear she was the nicest person off the court, but quite the opposite when it is game time.
I hear she could give the hard foul when necessary ...
I wouldn't know about that. She was a low post player and it got rough some times.
It's safe to say she was happy when the Purdue women (she played center for Purdue) whooped up on Carolina in the NCAA's ...
(smiling) I bet she was.
Okay, I am going to let you out of the hot seat before I get you in trouble. Thanks for your time and good luck with your development.
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