Kyrie Irving is not disappointing the fans in attendance at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Irving has 28 points with 11:51 left in the second half and his team has a 45-30 lead. Check out BlueDevilNation's Twitter page for updates throughout the weekend. We expect to have live audio blogs up before the day is out, which is a first for any Duke site. This will be free throughout the TOC, but will be premium in the future. BDN has secured interviews and scouting reports with a bevy of Duke targets. It's a great time to join!
UPDATE: Click "Play" on the icon below to hear Mark's latest live podcast!
Here are the Pools for all age groups in the 2009 Bob Gibbons Tournament of Champions. Schedule to follow.
16 pool winners advance to Bob Gibbons 17-under national playoffs. 16 second place teams in each pool advance to Bob Gibbons 17-under select playoffs.
Josh Hairston will be at the TOC with his D.C. Assault team
2009 17-Under National Tournament - 64 Teams
17 and Under Pools Pool A
A-1 CP3 All-Stars, NC
A-2 Team Philly
A-3 Illinois Wolves
A-4 Colorado Chaos
Pool B
B-1 Team Final, PA
B-2 Ohio Basketball
B-3 Hoop Planet, GA
B-4 Michigan Hurricanes
Pool C
C-1 Grassroots Canada
C-2 Squires Richmond
C-3 Carolina Raptors, SC
C-4 Team Truth, GA
Pool D
D-1 DC Assault
D-2 So. CA All-Stars
D-3 NC Gaters Blue
D-4 Dallas Seawolves
Pool E
E-1 New England Playaz
E-2 Hollis Price Elite, LA
E-3 Eric Gordon Central
E-4 Bball Stars of America
Pool F
F-1 Playaz Basketball Club
F-2 Florida Elite
F-3 Westchester Hawks
F-4 Team UBA, NC
Pool G
G-1 Nike Team Florida
G-2 Petersburg Elite
G-3 World Wide Renegades
G-4 Los Angeles Rage
Pool H
H-1 Team Detroit
H-2 Jackson MBA Elite
H-3 Carolina Cobras
H-4 Mike Miller M33M, TN
Pool I
I-1 New Heights, NY
I-2 Dallas Heroes
I-3 Team Breakdown, FL
I-4 Rising Stars JG. IL
Pool J
J-1 Team United, NC
J-2 WI Playground Warriors
J-3 NJ Roadrunners
J-4 Net Gain Sports, MN
Pool K
K-1 Memphis Magic Elite
K-2 Jackson Tigers, MS
K-3 Georgia Hawks
K-4 Team Takeover Canada
Pool L
L-1 Jacksonville Lee Bulls
L-2 Houston Select
L-3 Carolina Flight, NC
L-4 New York Panthers
Pool M
M-1 Atlanta Celtics
M-2 Memphis Stallions
M-3 Mid State Magic, NC
M-4 Baltimore Stars
Pool N
N-1 Brandon Bass Elite, TX
N-2 Michigan Mustangs
N-3 Florida Rams
N-4 Garner Road
Pool O
O-1 Team Odom West, CA
O-2 Team T.M.P., SC
O-3 Juice All-Stars, NY
O-4 Carolina Crusaders, NC
Pool P
P-1 Nashville Celtics
P-2 NC Force
P-3 SYF Players, IN
P-4 Houston Clippers
2009 16-Under National Tournament - 32 Teams
Eight pool winners advance to Bob Gibbons 16-Under National Quarterfinals. Eight second place finishers advance to Bob Gibbons 16-Under Select Quarterfinals.
16 and Under Pools Pool A
A-1 Playaz Bball Club
A-2 New Heights, NY
A-3 SYF Players, IN
A-4 Team Detroit
Pool B
B-1 Team Final, PA
B-2 Atlanta Celtics
B-3 Takeover Canada
B-4 WV Wildcats
Pool C
C-1 DC Assault
C-2 Boo Williams All-Stars, VA
C-3 Long Island Lightning, NY
C-4 Rising Stars JG, IL
Pool D
D-1 Carolina Flight, NC
D-2 Team Philly
D-3 Squires Richmond
D-4 Dallas Heroes
Pool E
E-1 Indiana Elite/Team IN
E-2 Westchester Hawks, NY
E-3 WI Playground Warriors
E-4 NJ Roadrunners
Pool F
F-1 Syracuse Select
F-2 Carolina Raptors
F-3 Texas Athletes
F-4 Team Phenom, PA
Pool G
G-1 Grassroots Canada
G-2 Ohio Bball Club
G-3 Showtime Ballers, FL
G-4 Rich Soil, NY
Pool H
H-1 Team United, NC
H-2 Indiana Elite One
H-3 Nashville Celtics
H-4 Team Kobe, PA
2009 15-Under National Tournament - 32 Teams
Eight pool winners advance to Bob Gibbons 15-Under National Quarterfinals. Eight second place finishers advance to Bob Gibbons 15-Under Select Quarterfinals.
15 and under Pools Pool A
A-1 DC Assault
A-2 WI Playground Warriors
A-3 LI Lightning, NY
A-4 WV Wildcats
Pool B
B-1 Atlanta Celtics
B-2 Grassroots Canada
B-3 Carolina Hoyas
B-4 Charlotte Nets
Pool C
C-1 Team Philly
C-2 Garner Road, NC
C-3 Boo Williams All-Stars
C-4 NLP, IL
Pool D
D-1 Dream Vision, CA
D-2 Petersburg Elite, VA
D-3 Carolina Raptors, NC
D-4 Team Melo, MD
Pool E
E-1 New Orleans Elite
E-2 PA Playaz
E-3 Nashville Celtics
E-4 KC Cowboy Players
Pool F
F-1 Memphis YOMCA
F-2 Indiana Elite/Team Indiana
F-3 Syracuse Select
F-4 NC Gaters 2012
Pool G
G-1 New York Gauchos
G-2 CP3 All-Stars
G-3 Eric Gordon Central
G-4 Squires Richmond
Pool H
H-1 Playaz Bball Club
H-2 Heart & Hustle, FL
H-3 Team Detroit
H-4 Team United, NC
Here is the complete schedule for the 2009 Bob Gibbons Tournament of Champions.
Note: HOME TEAM is listed FIRST. Home Team must wear white or light colored jerseys. Visitors will wear dark jerseys. Failure to wear correct uniforms will result in forfeit of game. Reversible jerseys are suggested. Bring your own practice balls.
FRIDAY, MAY 22, 2009
Time: UNC - DEAN E. SMITH CENTER
COURT #1
6:30 p.m. 17--D-2 So. Cal All-Stars vs. D-3 NC Gaters Blue
8:00 p.m. 17--A-1 Chris Paul CP3 All-Stars, NC vs. A-4 Colorado Chaos
9:30 p.m. 17--B-1 Team Final, PA vs. B-4 Michigan Hurricanes
COURT #2 (CENTER)
6:30 p.m. 17--G-1 Nike Team Florida vs. G-4 Los Angeles Rage
8:00 p.m. 17--P-1 Nashville Celtics vs. P-4 Houston Clippers
9:30 p.m. 17--C-1 Grassroots Canada vs. C-4 Team Truth, GA
COURT #3
6:30 p.m. 17--J-2 WI Playground Warriors vs. J-3 New Jersey Roadrunners
8:00 p.m. 17--H-2 Jackson MBA, MS vs. H-3 Carolina Cobras, NC
9:30 p.m. 17--O-2 Team T.M.P., SC vs. O-3 Juice All-Stars, NY
COURT #4 - UNC PRACTICE FACILITY
6:30 p.m. 17-- F-2 Florida Elite vs. F-3 Westchester Hawks, NY
8:00 p.m. 17-- O-1 Team Odom West, CA vs. O-4 Carolina Crusaders, NC
9:30 p.m. 16-- H-2 Indiana Elite One vs. H-3 Nashville Celtics
DUKE UNIVERSITY - CAMERON INDOOR STADIUM
COURT #5
6:30 p.m. 17--A-2 Team Philly vs. A-3 Illinois Wolves
8:00 p.m. 17--D-1 DC Assault vs. D-4 Dallas Seawolves
9:30 p.m. 17--E-1 New England Playaz, vs. E-4 Bball Stars of America, PA
DUKE UNIVERSITY - CARD GYM
COURT #6
6:30 p.m. 17--L-2 Houston Select vs. L-3 Carolina Flight, NC
8:00 p.m. 16--F-1 Syracuse Select, NY vs. F-4 Team Phenom, PA
9:30 p.m. 17--E-2 Hollis Price Elite, LA vs. E-3 Eric Gordon All-Stars, IN
DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON RECREATION CENTER - COURT #1
COURT #7
6:30 p.m. 17-- I-1 New Heights, NY vs. I-4 Rising Stars JG, IL
8:00 p.m. 17--J-1 Team United, NC vs. J-4 Net Gain Sports, MN
9:30 p.m. 17--F-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. F-4 Team UBA, NC
DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON RECREATION CENTER - COURT #2
COURT #8
6:30 p.m. 16--A-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. A-4 Team Detroit
8:00 p.m. 17-- L-1 Jacksonville Lee Bulls, FL vs. L-4 New York Panthers
9:30 p.m. 17--M-1 Atlanta Celtics vs. M-4 Baltimore Stars
N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - REYNOLDS COLISEUM #1 - COURT #9
6:30 p.m. 17--P-2 NC Force vs. P-3 SYF Players, IN
8:00 p.m. 17--H-1 Team Detroit vs. H-4 Mike Miller M33M, TN
9:30 p.m. 17--G-2 Petersburg Elite, VA vs. G-3 Worldwide Renegades, GA
N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - REYNOLDS COLISEUM #2 - COURT #10
6:30 p.m. 17--N-1 Brandon Bass Elite, TX vs. N-4 Garner Road, NC
8:00 p.m. 17--K-1 Memphis Magic vs. K-4 Team Takeover Canada
9:30 p.m. 17--B-2 Ohio Bball Club vs. B-3 Hoop Planet, GA
N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - DAIL CENTER COURT #11
6:30 p.m. 17--K-2 Jackson Tigers, MS vs. K-3 Georgia Hawks
8:00 p.m. 17--C-2 Squires Richmond, VA vs. C-3 Carolina Raptors, NC
9:30 p.m. 17--I-2 Dallas Heroes vs. I-3 Team Breakdown, FL
EAST CHAPEL HILL HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #12
6:30 p.m. 16--E-2 Westchester Hawks, NY vs. E-3 WI Playground Warriors
8:00 p.m. 16--B-1 Team Final, PA vs. B-4 WV WIldcats
9:30 p.m. 16--G-1 Grassroots Canada vs. G-4 Rich Soil, NY
CARRBORO HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #13
8:00 p.m. 16--D-2 Team Philly vs. D-3 Squires Richmond, VA
9:30 p.m. 16--E-1 Indiana Elite/ Team Indiana vs. E-4 NJ Roadrunners
HILLSIDE HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #14
8:00 P.M. 16--A-2 NEW HEIGHTS, NY VS. A-3 SYF PLAYERS, IN
9:30 P.M. 16--C-1 DC ASSAULT VS. C-4 RISING STARS JG, IL
RALEIGH CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #15
8:00 p.m. 17--M-2 Memphis Stallions vs. M-3 Mid State Magic, NC
9:30 p.m. 16--C-2 Boo Williams All-Stars, VA vs. C-3 Long Island Lightning, NY
RAVENSCROFT HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #16
8:00 p.m. 16--D-1 Carolina Flight, NC vs. D-4 Dallas Heroes
9:30 p.m. 16--H-1 Team United vs. H-4 Team KOBE, PA
SHAW UNIVERSITY -SPAULDING GYMNASIUM - COURT #17
00 p.m. 16--G-2 Ohio Bball Club vs. G-3 Showtime Ballers, FL
9:30 p.m. 16--B-2 Atlanta Celtics vs. B-3 Team Takeover Canada
ST. AUGUSTINE COLLEGE - EMERY GYNASIUM - COURT #18
8:00 p.m. 16--F-2 Carolina Raptors, NC vs. F-3 Texas Athletes
9:30 p.m. 17--N-2 Michigan Mustangs vs. N-3 Florida Rams
Important Note - Please call the tournament hotline at 919-843-3856 to report travel delays or any other problems.
SCHEDULE - SATURDAY, MAY 23, 2009
UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER - COURT #1
8:30 a.m. 15--A-1 DC Assault vs. A-4 WV Wildcats
9:45 a.m. 16--A-3 SYF Players, IN vs. A-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ
11:00 a.m. 17--K-3 Georgia Hawks vs. K-1 Memphis Magic
12:15 p.m. 17--F-3 Westchester Hawks, NY vs. F-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ
2:15 p.m. 16--F-1 Syracuse Select, NY vs. F-2 Carolina Raptors, NC
3:30 p.m. 17-- E-1 New England Playaz vs. E-2 Hollis Price Elite, LA
4:45 p.m. 15--B-1 Atlanta Celtics vs. B-2 Grassroots Canada
6:00 p.m. 17--C-1 Grassroots Canada vs. C-2 Squires Richmond, VA
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #1- 16-Under National- Winners Pool A vs. Pool H
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool A vs. Pool P
UNC-DEAN SMITH CENTER - COURT #2 (Center court)
8:30 a.m. 15--C-1 Team Philly vs. C-4 NLP, IL
9:45 a.m. 16--D-3 Squires Richmond, VA vs. D-1 Carolina Flight, NC
11:00 a.m. 17--H-3 Carolina Cobras vs. H-1 Team Detroit
12:15 p.m. 17--D-3 NC Gaters Blue vs. D-1 DC Assault
2:15 p.m. 16--H-1 Team United, NC vs. H-2 Indiana Elite One
3:30 p.m. 17--I-1 New Heights, NY vs. I-2 Dallas Heroes
4:45 p.m. 15--F-1 Memphis YOMCA vs. F-2 Indiana Elite / Team Indiana
6:00 p.m. 17--L-3 Carolina Flight, NC vs. L-4 New York Panthers
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #4 -16-Under National- Winners Pool D vs. Pool E
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool D vs. Pool M
UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER- COURT #3
8:30 a.m. 15--D-1 Dream Vision, CA vs. D-4 Team Melo, MD
9:45 a.m. 16--B-3 Team Takeover Canada vs. B-1 Team Final
11:00 a.m. 17--N-3 Florida Rams vs. N-1 Brandon Bass Elite, TX
12:15 p.m. 17--K-4 Team Takeover Canada vs. K-2 Jackson Tigers, MS
2:15 p.m. 16--G-1 Grassroots Canada vs. G-2 Ohio Basketball Club
3:30 p.m. 17--A-1 CP3 All-Stars, NC vs. A-2 Team Philly
4:45 p.m. 15--A-1 DC Assault vs. A-2 WI Playground Warriors
6:00 p.m. 17--G-1 Nike Team Florida vs. G-2 Petersburg Elite, VA
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #3 -16-Under National- Winners Pool C vs. Pool F
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool C vs. Pool N
COURT #4 - UNC PRACTICE FACILITY
8:30 a.m. 15--B-1 Atlanta Celtics vs. B-4 Charlotte Nets, NC
9:45 a.m. 16--F-3 Texas Athletes vs. F-1 Syracuse Select, NY
11:00 a.m. 17--L-3 Carolina Flight, NC vs. L-1 Jacksonville Lee Bulls, FL
12:15 p.m. 17--N-4 Garner Road, NC vs. N-2 Michigan Mustangs
2:15 p.m. 16--G-3 Showtime Ballers, FL vs. G-4 Rich Soil, NY
3:30 p.m. 17--M-1 Atlanta Celtics vs. M-2 Memphis Stallions
4:45 p.m. 15--G-1 New York Gauchos vs. G-2 CP3 All-Stars, NC
6:45 p.m. 17--G-3 Worldwide Renegades, GA vs. G-4 Los Angeles Rage
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #1 -16-Under Select- Second Place Pool A vs. Pool H
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool E vs. Pool L
DUKE UNIVERSITY - CAMERON INDOOR STADIUM- COURT #5
8:30 a.m. 15--A-2 WI Playground Warriors vs. A-3 Long Island Lightning, NY
9:45 a.m. 16--H-4 Team KOBE, PA vs. H-2 Indiana Elite One
11:00 a.m. 17--J-3 NJ Roadrunners vs. J-1 Team United, NC
12:15 p.m. 17--P-3 SYF Players, IN vs. P-1 Nashville Celtics, TN
1:30 p.m. 16--E-1 Indiana Elite / Team Indiana vs. E-2 Westchester Hawks, NY
2:45 p.m. 16--C-1 DC Assault vs. C-2 Boo Williams All-Stars, VA
4:00 p.m. 17--B-1 Team Final, PA vs. B-2 Ohio Bball Club
5:15 p.m. 15--D-1 Dream Vision, CA vs. D-2 Petersburg Elite, VA
6:30 p.m. 17--H-1 Team Detroit vs. H-2 Jackson MBA, MS
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #2 -16-Under National- Winners Pool B vs. Pool G
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool B vs. Pool O
DUKE UNIVERSITY - CARD GYM- COURT #6
8:30 a.m. 15--E-1 New Orleans Elite vs. E-4 KC Cowboy Players
9:45 a.m. 16--D-4 Dallas Heroes vs. D-2 Team Philly
11:00 a.m. 17--O-4 Carolina Crusaders, NC vs. O-2 Team T.M.P., SC
12:15 p.m. 17--A-4 Colorado Chaos vs. A-2 Team Philly
2:15 p.m. 15--H-3 Team Detroit vs. H-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ
3:30 p.m. 16--B-3 Team Takeover Canada vs. B-4 WV Wildcats
4:45 p.m. 15--D-3 Carolina Raptors vs. D-4 Team Melo, MD
6:00 p.m. 17--N-3 Florida Rams vs. N-4 Garner Road, NC
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinals #4 -16-Under Select- Second Place Pool D vs. Pool E
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool B vs. Pool O
DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON RECREATION CENTER - COURT #1
COURT #7
8:30 a.m. 15--F-1 Memphis YOMCA, TN vs. F-4 NC Gaters 2012
9:45 a.m. 16--B-4 WV Wildcats vs. B-2 Atlanta Celtics
11:00 a.m. 17--O-3 Juice All-Stars, NY vs. O-1 Team Odom West, CA
12:15 p.m. 17--H-4 Mike Miller M33M, TN vs. H-2 Jackson MBA, MS
2:15 p.m. 15--G-3 Eric Gordon Central S, IN vs. G-1 New York Gauchos
3:30 p.m. 16--C-3 Long Island Lightning, NY vs. C-4 Rising Stars JG, IL
4:45 p.m. 15--E-1 New Orleans Elite vs. E-2 Pennsylvania Playaz
6:00 p.m. 17--N-1 Brandon Bass Elite, TX vs. N-2 Michigan Mustangs
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinals #2 -16-Under Select- Second Place Pool B vs. Pool G
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool H vs. Pool I
DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON RECREATION CENTER - COURT #2
COURT #8
8:30 a.m. 15--H-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. H-4 Team United, NC
9:45 a.m. 16--G-3 Showtime Ballers, FL vs. G-1 Grassroots Canada
11:00 a.m. 17--E-3 Eric Gordon Central S, IN vs. E-1 New England Playaz
12:15 p.m. 17--G-4 Los Angeles Rage vs. G-2 Petersburg Elite, VA
2:15 p.m. 15--G-4 Squires Richmond, VA vs. G-2 CP3 All-Stars, NC
3:30 p.m. 16--E-3 WI Playground Warriors vs. E-4 NJ Roadrunners
4:45 p.m. 15--C-1 Team Philly vs. C-2 Garner Road, NC
6:00 p.m. 17--I-3 Team Breakdown, FL vs. I-4 Rising Stars JG, IL
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinals #3 -16-Under Select- Second Place Pool C vs. Pool F
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool A vs. Pool P
N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - REYNOLDS COLISEUM #1 - COURT #9
8:30 a.m. 15--F-2 Indiana Elite / Team Indiana vs. F-3 Syracuse Select, NY
9:45 a.m. 16--E-3 WI Playground Warriors vs. E-1 Indiana Elite / Team Indiana
11:00 a.m. 17--A-3 Illinois Wolves vs. A-1 CP3 All-Stars, NC
12:15 p.m. 17--M-3 mid State Magic, NC vs. M-1 Atlanta Celtics
1:30 p.m. 16--B-1 Team Final, PA vs. B-2 Atlanta Celtics
2:45 p.m. 16--A-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. A-2 New Heights, NY
4:00 p.m. 17--F-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. F-2 Florida Elite
5:15 p.m. 15--H-1 Playaz Bball Club, NJ vs. H-2 Heart and Hustle, FL
6:30 p.m. 17--J-3 NJ Roadrunners vs. J-4 Net Gain Sports, MN
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinals #1 -15-Under National-Winners Pool A vs. Pool H
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool F vs. Pool K
N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - REYNOLDS COLISEUM #2 - COURT #10
8:30 a.m. 15--B-2 Grassroots Canada vs. B-3 Carolina Hoyas, NC
9:45 a.m. 16--A-4 Team Detroit vs. A-2 New Heights, NY
11:00 a.m. 17--E-4 Bball Stars of America, PA vs. E-2 Hollis Price Elite, LA.
12:15 p.m. 15--A-4 WV Wildcats vs. A-2 WI Playground Warriors
2:15 p.m. 16--D-1 Carolina Flight, NC vs. D-2 Team Philly
3:30 p.m. 17--O-3 Juice All-Stars, NY vs. O-4 Carolina Crusaders, NC
4:45 p.m. 15--C-3 Boo Williams A-S, VA vs. C-4 NLP, IL
6:00 p.m. 17--J-1 Team United, NC vs. J-2 WI Playground Warriors
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #2 -15-Under National- Winners Pool B vs. Pool G
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool C vs. Pool N
N.C. STATE UNIVERSITY - DAIL CENTER COURT #11
8:30 a.m. 15--G-1 New York Gauchos vs. G-4 Squires Richmond, VA
9:45 a.m. 16--H-3 Nashville Celtics vs. H-1 Team United, NC
11:00 a.m. 17--B-3 Hoop Planet, GA vs. B-1 Team Final, PA
12:15 p.m. 17--D-4 Dallas Seawolves vs. D-2 So. Cal All-Stars
2:15 p.m. 16--D-3 Squires Richmond, VA vs. D-4 Dallas Heroes
3:30 p.m. 17--L-1 Jacksonville Lee Bulls, Fl vs. L-2 Houston Select
4:45 p.m. 15--E-3 Nashville Celtics vs. E-4 KC Cowboy Players, MO
6:00 p.m. 17--O-1 Team Odom West, CA vs. O-2 Team T.M.P., SC
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #3 -15-Under National- Winners Pool C vs. Pool F
10:00 p.m. 17-Under National Playoffs- Winners Pool G vs. Pool J
EAST CHAPEL HILL HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #12
8:30 a.m. 15--G-2 CP3 All-Stars, NC vs. G-3 Eric Gordon Central S, IN
9:45 a.m. 16--F-4 Team Phenom, PA vs. F-2 Carolina Raptors, NC
11:00 a.m. 17--L-4 New York Panthers vs. L-2 Houston Select
12:15 p.m. 15--A-3 Long Island Lightning, NY vs. A-1 DC Assault
2:15 p.m. 15--H-4 Team United, NC vs. H-2 Heart and Hustle, FL
3:30 p.m. 16--A-3 SYF Players, IN vs. A-4 Team Detroit
4:45 p.m. 15--F-3 Syracuse Select, NY vs. F-4 NC Gaters 2012
6:00 p.m. 17--K-1 Memphis Magic vs. K-2 Jackson Tigers, MS
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #4 -15-Under National- Winners Pool D vs. Pool E
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool D vs. Pool M
CARRBORO HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #13
8:30 a.m. 15--H-2 Heart and Hustle, FL vs. H-3 Team Detroit
9:45 a.m. 16--C-4 Rising Stars JG, IL vs. C-2 Boo Williams A-S, VA
11:00 a.m. 17--C-3 Carolina Raptors, NC vs. C-1 Grassroots Canada
12:15 p.m. 15--B-3 Carolina Hoyas, NC vs. B-1 Atlanta Celtics
2:15 p.m. 15--E-4 KC Cowboy Players, MO vs. E-2 Pennsylvania Playaz
3:30 p.m. 17--H-3 Carolina Cobras, NC vs. H-4 Mike Miller M33M, TN
4:45 p.m. 15--A-3 Long Island Lightning, NY vs. A-4 WV Wildcats
6:00 p.m. 17--P-1 Nashville Celtics vs. P-2 NC Force
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #1 -15-Under Select- Second Place Pool A vs. Pool H
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool E vs. Pool L
HILLSIDE HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #14
8:30 a.m. NO GAME SCHEDULED
9:45 a.m. 16--E-4 NJ Roadrunners vs. E-2 Westchester Hawks, NY
11:00 a.m. 17--C-4 Team Truth, GA vs. C-2 Squires Richmond, VA
12:15 p.m. 15--C-3 Boo Williams A-S, VA vs. C-1 Team Philly
2 :15 p.m. 15--D-4 Team Melo, MD vs. D-2 Petersburg Elite, VA
3 :30 p.m. 16--F-3 Texas Athletes vs. F-4 Team Phenom, PA
4:45 p.m. 15--B-3 Carolina Hoyas, NC vs. B-4 Charlotte Nets, NC
6:00 p.m. 17--B-3 Hoop Planet, GA vs. B-4 Michigan Hurricanes
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #4 -15-Under Select- Second Place Pool D vs. Pool E
RALEIGH CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #15
8:30 a.m. 15--E-2 Pennsylvania Playaz vs. E-3 Nashville Celtics
9:45 a.m. 16--G-4 Rich Soil, NY vs. G-2 Ohio Bball Club
11:00 a.m. 17--I-4 Rising Stars JG, IL vs. I-2 Dallas Heroes
12:15 p.m. 15--D-3 Carolina Raptors, NC vs. D-1 Dream Vision, CA
2:15 p.m. 15--B-4 Charlotte Nets, NC vs. B-2 Grassroots Canada
3:30 p.m. 16--H-3 Nashville Celtics vs. H-4 Team KOBE, PA
4:45 p.m. 15--G-3 Eric Gordon Central S. vs. G-4 Squires Richmond, VA
6:00 p.m. 17--P-3 SYF Players, IN vs. P-4 Houston Clippers
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #2 -15-Under Select- Second Place Pool B vs. Pool G
RAVENSCROFT HIGH SCHOOL - COURT #16
8:30 a.m. NO GAME SCHEDULED
9:45 a.m. 16--C-3 Long Island Lightning, NY vs. C-1 DC Assault
11:00 a.m. 17--G-3 Worldwide Renegades, GA vs. G-1 Nike Team Florida
12:15 p.m. 15--E-3 Nashville Celtics vs. E-1 New Orleans Elite
2:15 p.m. 15--F-3 Syracuse Select, NY vs. F-1 Memphis YOMCA, TN
3:30 p.m. 17--K-3 Georgia Hawks vs. K-4 Team Takeover Canada
4:45 p.m. 15--H-3 Team Detroit vs. H-4 Team United, NC
6:00 p.m. 17--M-3 Mid State Magic, NC vs. M-4 Baltimore Stars
8:00 p.m. Quarterfinal #3 -15-Under Select- Second Place Pool C vs. Pool F
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool F vs. Pool K
SHAW UNIVERSITY -SPAULDING GYMNASIUM - COURT #17
8:30 a.m. 15--D-2 Petersburg Elite, VA vs. D-3 Carolina Raptors, NC
9:45 a.m. 17--P-4 Houston Clippers vs. P-2 NC Force
11:00 a.m. 17--M-4 Baltimore Stars, MD vs. M-2 Memphis Stallions, TN
12:15 p.m. 17--I-3 Team Breakdown, FL vs. I-1 New Heights, NY
2:15 p.m. 15--C-4 NLP, IL vs. C-2 Garner Road, NC
3:30 p.m. 17--F-3 Westchester Hawks, NY vs. F-4 Team UBA, NC
4:45 p.m 17--D-1 DC Assault vs. D-2 So. Cal All-Stars
6:00 p.m. 17--A-3 Illinois Wolves vs. A-4 Colorado Chaos
8:00 p.m. NO GAME SCHEDULED
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool G vs. Pool J
ORANGE HIGH SCHOOL, HILLSBOROUGH, NC - COURT #18
8:30 a.m. 15--C-2 Garner Road, NC vs. C-3 Boo Williams A-S, VA
9:45 a.m. 17--F-4 Team UBA, NC vs. F-2 Florida Elite
11:00 a.m. 17--B-4 Michigan Hurricanes vs. B-2 Ohio Bball Club
12:15 p.m. 17--J-4 Net Gain Sports, MN vs. J-2 WI Playground Warriors
2:15 p.m. 15--F-4 NC Gaters 2012 vs. F-2 Indiana Elite / Team Indiana
3:30 p.m. 17--E-3 Eric Gordon Central S., IN vs. E-4 Bball Stars of America, PA
4:45 p.m. 17--D-3 NC Gaters Blue vs. D-4 Dallas Seawolves
6:00 p.m. 17--C-3 Carolina Raptors, NC vs. C4 Team Truth, GA
8:00 p.m. NO GAME SCHEDULED
10:00 p.m. 17-Under Select Playoffs- Second Place Pool H vs. Pool I
SCHEDULE - SUNDAY, MAY 24, 2009
TOURNAMENT PLAYOFFS and CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES
UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER - COURT #1
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #1- 17-Under National Playoff Winner A/P vs. Winner H/I
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 16-Under National -Winners Quarterfinal #1 vs. #4
12:00 p.m. Semifinal 17-Under National- Winners Quarterfinal #1 vs. #4
2:30 p.m. Championship 15-Under National Tournament
4:00 p.m. Championship 17-Under national Tournament
5:30 p.m. Awards Presentation and All-Tournament Selections
UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER- COURT #2 (CENTER)
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #4-17-Under National Playoff Winner D/M vs. Winner E/L
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 16-Under Select - Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3
12:00 p.m. Semifinal 17-Under Select - Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3
2:30 p.m. Championship 15-Under Select Tournment
4:00 p.m. Championship 16-Under National Tournament
UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER- COURT #3
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #3-17-Under National- Playoff Winner C/N vs. Winner F/K
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 16-Under Select - Winners Quarterfinal #1 vs. #4
12:00 p.m. Semifinal 17- Under Select- Winners Quarterfinal #1 vs. #4
2:30 p.m. Championship 16-Under Select Tournament
4:00 p.m. Championship 17-Under Select Tournament
UNC-DEAN E. SMITH CENTER- COURT #4 - UNC PRACTICE FACILITY
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #1-17-Under Select Playoff Winners A/P vs. H/I
10:30 a.m Semifinal 15-Under National- Winners Quarterfinal #1 vs. #4
DUKE UNIVERSITY - CAMERON INDOOR STADIUM- COURT #5
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #2-17-Under National- Playoff Winners B/O vs. G/J
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 16-Under National-Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3
12:00 p.m. Semifinal 17-Under National- Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3
DUKE UNIVERSITY - CARD GYM -COURT #6
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal #4- 17-Under Select- Winner D/M vs. E/L
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 15-Under Select- Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3
DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON REC CENTER #1-COURT #7
9:00 a.m Quarterfinal #2- 17-Under Select- Winner Pool B/O vs.G/J
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 15-Under National- Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3
DUKE UNIVERSITY - WILSON REC CENTER #2-COURT #8
9:00 a.m. Quarterfinal # 3 -17-Under Select- Playoff Winner C/N vs. Winner F/K
10:30 a.m. Semifinal 15-Under Select- Winners Quarterfinal #2 vs. #3
Don't look for Wall to trim his list today, but [private] Friday and Monday are possibilities, as is any other day in the future. There are many complexities which make up the battle for Wall. And it remains to be seen if World Wide Wes can swoop in at the last minute and work his magic. Make no mistake, he will likely make a play on the Wall Camp during the midnight hour.
On the other hand, Wall's Mom continues to side with the Blue Devils and some feel Brian Clifton wants him to stick close to home as well. But before anything can happen, John needs to pass his SAT's. He will make his first attempt on Saturday, but there are many who feel it may take another try before it's done, according to sources I have within the school. If Wall does not pass his SAT, he would forgo college and the options available are many. Keep in mind that he has three opportunities to pass before the school year begins.
Still, if Wall can pass, Duke will remain in the race with Kentucky and a school or two which will likely make his final list. I told you long ago that it would come down to Duke and Kentucky and while that could change, I have no reason to think it will. As for a timeline on a decision, I will stick with what I told you a few weeks back in that this one could drag out until May 20th at the latest. IOW, I am certain it will go into May.
As for Wall's meeting with Krzyzewski, nothing is etched in stone as I type, but that could change within hours. Duke still wants a face to face where Coach K will get to chat with Wall one more time before a decision is made.
Eric Bledsoe
I told you on the message board that Bledsoe had passed his ACT and that he would visit Memphis and Kentucky on Saturday. There is nothing set up with Duke at this time, but Bledsoe remains interested and the staff is following this situation with Nate James as the lead recruiter. I have said for the past few weeks that Bledsoe is a long shot, and I stick by that.
Harrison Barnes
I told you a while back that UNC got in the Harrison Barnes sweepstakes and that they have an unofficial visit scheduled with him in June after the NBA Player Developmental Camp. That seemed like bad news at the time, but the Heels have a lot of catching up to do. Barnes is telling everyone his recruitment is wide open, but if we allow some patience, this could be a similar situation to Kyle Singler's. Singler was thought to favor Duke all along, but he waited until the end for the decision, which put a lot of Duke fans on pins and needles. I don't look for Barnes to verbal anytime soon. Oh yeah! The good news is that, not to be outdone, Coach K and the Duke staff "may" get an unofficial visit the same weekend Harrison heads to Chapel Hill for the first time. This would make the third visit to Duke for Barnes.
There are no other unofficial visits set up at this time. (I had to edit this for the nature is sensitive)
A busy July ahead for the staff
Duke will not be able to hit the road until July which gives them a much smaller window than in years past due to NCAA rules changes. Until then, they will study what they hear and by August, we will have a good idea as to who is really on the radar.
Event coverage
We will be mapping out the rest of our spring and summer schedule shortly, but rest assured we'll be represented at the tournaments that count. There will be no drop-off in our coverage of the nation's best prospects.
One last note. There are some things involving the John Wall recruitment where I am sworn to silence. I must respect the wishes of my sources on this, but promise to keep you more than just a little aware of what is going on. Thanks for being a member of the Blue Devil Nation. The best is yet to come. [/private]
This photo is courtesy and property of the NJ Star
Here is the second part of BDN's coverage of the Pitt Jam Fest and Duke prospect Kyrie Irving by Andrew Slater. Sandy Pyonin is the energetic head of the New Jersey Roadrunners, has taught and coached at the high school level, and trained thirty-one former and current NBA players. Some of his former players include Randy Foye and Al Harrington, as well as two former Duke players that have had their jerseys retired, Bobby Hurley and Jason Williams. One of Coach Pyonin’s current players is Kyrie Irving, the 6’2” St. Patrick’s guard and Duke recruit. He spoke with Blue Devil Nation about his star pupil and how Kyrie Irving compares to some of his former greats.
Clark Francis began publishing Hoop Scoop magazine in 1983. He has watched his scouting service grow and morph into one of the largest and most well-known in the country. Francis also chimed in with his thoughts on Duke recruit Kyrie Irving.
Blue Devil Nation: Can you talk briefly about Kyrie Irving as player and as a person?
Sandy Pyonin: First of all, he’s a great person. He comes from a great family. His family is super nice…a very bright family. His father went to BU...Boston University. He played basketball there. His father taught him most everything that he has learned. He’s played for me for the last two summers. I’ve had thirty-one NBA players. Kyrie has a great work ethic. It would be on par with an Al Harrington, who I trained. He couldn’t make lay-ups as a sophomore, but went from high school directly to the NBA. Kyrie loves to play basketball. He works at the game continuously to get better at different facets of the game. He’s going to Saint Patrick’s and so he’s getting ongoing training from Kevin Boyle. He’s still growing and so he’s 6’2” now and he could very well wind up at 6’4” or 6’5.” [private]
BDN: His father is 6’4”
SP: Yes, his father is 6’4” and Kyrie is only sixteen. Oh, wait, he just turned seventeen
Blue Devil Nation: Can you compare him to some of the great players you’ve ever had?
Sandy Pyonin: I mean I’ve had 31 NBA players. I had Randy Foye. He’s probably the best guard I ever had. I’ve had Bobby Hurley. I had David Rivers if you want to go back. I had Brevin Knight. Just trying to think of other point guards. I had Shaheen Holloway.
BDN: Now at Iona
SP: I don’t want to leave anyone else out. Each of those players brought something to different to the table. He still has to improve on leadership and improve on defense. Well, improve on every aspect of his game, but.. the sky is the limit for him. The sky is his limit. He could be as good as any of them…at least as good.
Blue Devil Nation: Do you view him as a point guard or a combo guard?
Sandy Pyonin: I think he’ll be a great point guard, but because he can shoot the ball so well he can play combo…so he can do both. I want him to play point guard for us and work on his leadership ability because I think that’s where his future is for us…at point…specially if he has the intention of going into the NBA someday.
Blue Devil Nation: From when he last played for you, how has he improved and changed in the current school year?
Sandy Pyonin: At first, I think he was really just trying to find his way. He was at a new school and with a new situation and he came on strong at the end of the season, but, to be honest with you, he was at that level last summer towards the end and he will pick up from there now and probably be three times better now that he’s been through that. He’s back with us and you see he has more of a role with us. He takes much more of a leadership role with us. There he had those guys that were in place. Now he will have that role for them next year at St. Pat’s, but he has that role for us right now.
Blue Devil Nation: As a professional trainer, what are some things that you’d like Kyrie to work on physically over the coming months?
Sandy Pyonin: Obviously, he’s got great agility, as you will see tonight, when he plays. I think his jumping will improve and he can really jump. He’s dunking more consistently than he did last summer. That’s for sure. As far as other improvements, yeah, he’s got to get stronger. He’s got to consistently hit the weight room. We’ve already discussed that, when I spoke with his father the other day.
BDN: Where would he work on his strength specifically?
SP: Locally. I mean we have great people around that can work with him on that aspect.
Blue Devil Nation: I wasn’t sure if you’d work with him on that aspect.
Sandy Pyonin: No, I don’t really work with him on that. My thing…I mean I lift myself, but I don’t. I’m aware of the importance of lifting and strength, but I pretty much restrict myself to the other aspects. I try to lift the kids to a higher level in terms of skill wise as a basketball player and talent, but I try to work with them on the mental aspect game as well. Get them to concentrate on the mental aspect of the game. I’m really big on that, where other…well, most other coaches don’t emphasize that enough.
Blue Devil Nation: You mentioned before that you really wanted him to work on his leadership ability.
Sandy Pyonin: Yes, all through this summer. You know just guys like Randy Foye will spend some time with him…and Al Harrington will be around the program. Although Al isn’t a guard, he has guard skills. He also has great knowledge.
BDN: He’s also the sponsor of the team.
SP: Yes, Al helps sponsor the team for the most part and he‘s around the team, which is great. Now that he’s with the Knicks, he’ll be around our program even more. He may even sit in on the bench. Al’s just been great.
Blue Devil Nation: Can you talk about Kyrie Irving, including his potential as well, as his strengths and weaknesses?
Clark Francis: Kyrie Irving has unbelievable potential. I don’t think he’s a pure point guard at this point. He scores so well and he can be a top five player in this class. I don’t know that he’s a top ten or fifteen or even twenty player at this point. I think he’s really more of a two than a one right now because he has such a scorer’s mentality and again, when I saw him, it may not be fair to judge him. When I saw him, he had only just come back for a couple of weeks. When he was playing for St. Pat’s in early February…when he was playing on the thirteenth and fourteenth of February in those two tournaments...so, you know, that’s why we’re here.
You know… to see what happens. I hear he plays better playing with Sandy, but, you know, we’ll see. I mean talent wise, athleticism-wise, etc. his potential is off the hook. I mean if he grows another inch or two then that’s scary too. I mean he could very well wind up being 6’4” to 6’5” and maybe not be a pure point guard, but a scoring point guard, where he could make a lot of money in the NBA. I mean he could step right in and run my team. I mean let’s say if I have four super players at somebody like Kentucky and I can get him, he’d be great at point guard. If I’ve got a couple of weaknesses or height problems and I need him to do a few things in order to make the people around him better, than he may not be the answer, but we’ll see.
He’s got to be careful to pick the right spot. To be the best player that he can be…to highlight what he does…to get drafted as high as possible… his college decision on who he plays for…I mean being in a wide-open system where he has other great players around him, that’s going to be most important for him. If he goes to some place where they play half-court and just throw the ball down and not utilize what he does best, well, they’re going to have problems. I mean he still will be one of the better players the country in college basketball, but will he be as…um
Blue Devil Nation: Able to maximize his potential?
Clark Francis: Yes, and that’s a good question. I mean you watch a guy play one, two, maybe three or four games and you can make a mistake. If you see a guy thirty or forty times, as I hope to see him over the next year or so, well than I’ll probably have a lot better feel for him. Right now, I’ve only seen him maybe a couple of times at the Bob Gibbons tournament and a couple of times in January and February. Optimally, it’ll be a lot more than that, but well see
Blue Devil Nation: How do you feel about his defense, as an on-the-ball defender?
Clark Francis: Okay, not great, but could be a great defender if he wants to be. I mean, with his athleticism and good core attitude, he can be great at as well.
Talk about this article on the Blue Devil Nation Premium message board. There you will find much more information on John Wall and the latest recruiting happenings which cannot be found on the main board. Having trouble getting on the message board? Contact Mark at watzonebdp@gmail.com[/private]
During the past year, Kyrie Irving has become one of the most coveted recruits in the country through his play at Saint Patrick’s of Elizabeth, New Jersey. Irving cut down his list of suitors from over thirty-five programs to a more workable ten, including the Duke Blue Devils. Over the weekend, the 6’2” guard played in his first major AAU tournament since winning the state title and did nothing but enhance his stock through his deft shooting, improved athleticism, and the opportunity to take the reins as a point guard in leading his New Jersey Roadrunners to a 3-1 mark, while averaging nearly 26 points per game. During the tournament, Blue Devil Nation caught up with Kyrie again to cover a variety of topics.
Blue Devil Nation: You made first team all-state and the Celtics won the state title. Was it about as smooth a transition as you could have hoped for?
Kyrie Irving: The transition to St. Patrick’s?
BDN: Yes
KI: It was a learning experience, you know, as a player and as a person. Looking up to Dexter (Strickland) and Paris (Bennett) everyday. Going out there in practice and just working very hard.
BDN: Well, you went 19-1 with you out there. It couldn’t have gone much better on the court.
KI: I definitely went through some ups and downs during this season, but it was a learning experience. I love it.
Blue Devil Nation: You cut your suitors down to ten programs. How did you come to the decision and what’s your current timeline? To read the rest of this in depth interview, join Blue Devil Nation Premium -[private]
Kyrie Irving: I just sat there and thought about the coaching staffs and how I felt about them and whether or not I could see myself playing there…and if I felt I wanted to visit there and stuff like that.
BDN: You felt you needed to cut it down to something more manageable.
KI: I definitely needed to cut it down.
BDN: So you thought thirty-five was a little too much..
KI: (laughing) Yeah, I just needed to think about the coaching staffs and handle it from there.
Blue Devil Nation: What aspects of your game can you work on during the AAU season that you cannot work on at St. Patrick’s? How does it differ? You seemed a lot more aggressive tonight than you have during the high school season, but they needed you to be tonight.
Kyrie Irving: Well, I mean the rumor is that I’m more of a combo guard, which people list me as, but my primary position is as a one. I’m a point guard first.
BDN: I was trying to track it amongst other things, but you brought up the ball roughly seventy percent of the time you were on the court (this would increase significantly as the tournament went along).
KI: Yeah, exactly, I mean Sandy just lets me get ball and start the offense. He lets me work on my game…different aspects that I want to keep working on…like refining my mid-range game.
Blue Devil Nation: Well, since you brought up shooting, how do you assess your shooting right now in all aspects? Long-range, pull-ups, floaters, driving the lane, and the one you just touched on, your mid-range game… You were hitting your threes consistently tonight.
Kyrie Irving: Well, I shot very well tonight. I’m also trying to work on finishing inside against the best near the basket. I think my range is pretty decent right now, but I mean just my in-between game right now.
BDN: You’re trying to work on it now amidst game situations.
KI: Yeah, the fact is I work on it all the time, but, in the game, it’s just different.
Blue Devil Nation: How did you decide on the Roadrunners and what’s your relationship like with Sandy Pyonin?
Kyrie Irving: Well, like before I started getting recruited and before people started to know me…I was with Sandy since my freshman summer...playing with guys like Corey and Keon Lawrence
BDN: I saw you with Justin Crosgile.
KI: Yeah, that’s like my right-hand man right there so I was just playing with him since the sixteen and under and then it just exploded basically.
BDN: Do you think it was just a matter of exposure combined with some improved play? Or do you feel you were always this good? You don’t have to be humble this time if you feel you were always around this level (laughs).
KI: (laughs) Yeah, I was around this level basically.
Blue Devil Nation: Which camps do you plan on attending this year?
Kyrie Irving: I’m going to the NBA camp. Then, I’m going to the Deron Williams Camp and the LeBron James camp…and there are a couple of other ones, but I’m not sure just yet.
BDN: What about tournaments?
KI: We’re going to Bob Gibbons and to Vegas that I know of.
BDN: Has Coach Boyle talked to you about how he plans on utilizing you next season? Will you be playing more off the ball next year or on? KI: I’m going to be doing both. I’ll be a scoring point guard.
Blue Devil Nation: Despite the exposure that playing at a national power like St. Patrick’s, before you arrived, did you ever have any concerns over being overshadowed or overlooked by playing with other quality players, as opposed to staying at MKA, where you would continue to be the main guy and put up massive numbers? Not necessarily intimidation, but apprehension perhaps?
Kyrie Irving: (pause) At first, I did. I did feel it at first. I looked up to Dexter Strickland before I got there. I was always like wow, but the transition went cool so I mean just playing against the best and
BDN: By the way, I didn’t mean to offend you in any way by the question.
KI: Nah, nah, it’s all right. I can honestly say I was like a fan of Dexter’s and I admired everything about him. Everybody was always taking about ‘Dexter this and Dexter that’ and all of the camps that he was going to that never considered me. After I got to know everybody, everything was fine.
BDN: What was the highlight of the season for you? The title game? Your coming out party against St. Benedict’s? KI: Winning the state title definitely… That was the best, particularly as a junior
Blue Devil Nation: Winning the state title. Can you talk about that game?
Kyrie Irving: That game…that game I put on a show also. I had twenty-six points and fun out there. The seniors…it was their last game. To top it all off, it was my birthday.
You turned seventeen that day.
Yes.
BDN: In your view, what are some of the benefits of playing AAU basketball?
KI: Playing against the best and the travel. I love to travel.
Blue Devil Nation: Let me ask a few questions that the posters were wondering about. Are you leaning towards any school at this point, specifically Indiana?
Kyrie Irving: No, not at all.
BDN: Another poster was wondering what position you would play in college? Would a “scoring point” be a more apt description than a “combo guard” at this point?
KI: I would say that, yeah, definitely.
Blue Devil Nation: Can you talk about your relationship with Rod Strickland? People have written that he’s a “cousin,” a family friend, and even an “uncle.”
Kyrie Irving: He’s a close friend of my family.
BDN: Can you assess your play so far in the tournament.?
KI: It’s been good. Our team is playing well and we’re just getting our chemistry together.
Blue Devil Nation: I wrote down your ten schools. Can you just briefly go through each of your ten finalists? If you could just briefly go over why you chose the specific program, that’d be helpful.
Kyrie Irving: Oh, okay. Yeah, sure
BDN: Indiana?
KI: Coach Crean and Coach McLeod. I have a great relationship with both of them. Notre Dame is because I have a great relationship with Coach Brey and Coach Solomon, er, Thomas.
BDN: Solomon
KI: Solomon and Coach Brey wants me to visit out there.
BDN: Texas A&M?
KI: They were the first to offer me. It was in the summer of my ninth grade year.
Blue Devil Nation: Florida?
Kyrie Irving: I went down there for Nationals and it was just great and they came to every game. Seton Hall is because their a local school. You know close to home. And Duke. (pause) You know, I…I mean Duke to me is really big. I mean especially where I’m coming from, which was nowhere. They’re great.
BDN: How about Georgia Tech?
KI: Coach Hewitt… he’s been great. He relates…he relates to my dad a lot. They have a good relationship.
Blue Devil Nation: What about Pitt, the home school for this tournament?
Kyrie Irving: I’m really just getting to know them, but I mean Ashton (Gibbs) is one of my boys.
BDN: Do you view this as an unofficial visit to Pitt?
KI: No, no I can’t.
BDN: Maryland? KI: Maryland was because Coach Williams and Coach Eisen (Ehsen) came to see me during my sophomore summer, but it was brief.
BDN: And Marquette?
KI: I’ve watched them since Tom Crean was there and Coach Williams then. Coach Williams, right?
BDN: Yeah
KI: He became the coach and than I just related from there.
Blue Devil Nation: You talked in the past about making trips to Memphis and Indiana, do you have any unofficial trips planned for the spring or some that you’re hoping to make but haven‘t yet scheduled?
Kyrie Irving: Oh, yeah. On the 28th and 29th, I’m going to Texas A&M on an unofficial and in the future I’m going to Indiana and Notre Dame.
BDN: Okay, and that’s it for the schedule at this time.
Before we get to the latest recruiting information, let me tell you what's coming to Blue Devil Nation Premium this week. We'll have an informative interview with Harrison Barnes and comments from one of his AAU coaches. BDN's Andrew Slater was on the scene at the Pittsburgh Jam Fest. Slater will have the latest, including interviews with Kyrie Irving, Ray McCallum and more. Both of us will offer scouting reports on prospects we see firsthand this week as well. Then there is some hot information on visits, but you have to be a member to see that.
Here is the latest on the recruiting trail from BDN, a source you can trust. [private] Duke is very high on Kyrie Irving and that's why Andrew was scoping him out this weekend. Irving is moving up the ratings as I type and he has already listed the Blue Devils on his list of ten schools. Duke Assistant Coach Chris Collins will visit Irving this week and there may be an unofficial visit in the future - we'll keep you posted on that.
Another guard prospect Slater interviewed this weekend is Ray McCallum. This youngster has a lot of schools on him and if you have read our past update you have a good idea of his capabilities. It's no secret that Duke is now going after athletic guards and the staff is determined to get one or two in the fold in the class of 2010. Coach Collins will also take time to visit McCallum this week, so make no mistake in that Duke is very active on the recruiting trail.
BDN's best wishes for a speedy recovery go out to Steve Wojciechowski who recently tore his ACL. The injury will cause Wojo to be on the mend and off the recruiting road show for a good while. This means that head of basketball operations, Chris Spatola will take his place. Spatola will be looking at some of the states younger players and will check out some action in Virginia as well.
Don't freak out that Chris Carrawell wasn't the choice, for he is a notch behind Spatola in the chain of command. Both will one day be assistant coaches. CWell will once again participate in the James-Carawell, where donations from Duke fans helped me send three underprivileged kids that I work with to the camp last season.
Everybody keeps asking on the message board whether Duke still has interest in Eric Bledsoe. Well, the answer is yes, despite the fact that another site says he has a final four which does not include Duke. In fact, Duke Assistant Coach, Nate James will be heading south to visit Bledsoe this week as well as some young prospects. Either James or Spatola will visit Luke Cothron, likely James.
Duke is trying to get a feel for some of the youngsters in the 2011 class so they will know who to track come July when they are allowed to go to camps. Yes, the camp availability is a bit more stringent this year, see the link from the NCAA on the message board if you are curious.
Then there is the continuing recruitment of the talented John Wall. I am going to give you my speculation on what I feel is happening at "the moment." I feel N.C. State is out despite being listed and that Miami is on the outside looking in as well. I would in no way be shocked if Wall cancels his Miami visit. His visit to Miami is set for this Friday and may last until Sunday. Baylor seems the long shot as well, but of course I am pretty much repeating myself with all of the above. Of late, Wall has added Oregon back.
Kansas has made a push but with their PG returning and the distance, I feel Wall will not be a Jayhawk. Then there is "Dart gun," Billy Donovan who crept into the Wall home only to fly to Portland to meet with Wall in a motel room. That meeting was set up by Clifton who continues to listen to overtures. Well, Billy has already used that dart gun trick with Kenny Boynton, so he'll have to reach deeper into the bag of tricks this time. Wait a minute! Kenny Boynton and John Wall in the same back court? One basketball is simply not enough for these two players and neither of them is going to take a backseat. Could this mean that Wall stays in state like Boynton?
I also find it a bit interesting that rivals are doing their best to sway Wall away. Florida comes rolling in when Kentucky becomes a player and North Carolina and Roy Williams would do anything to push Wall anywhere but Durham. Both Florida and North Carolina have got into this race late - too late in my opinion. If you put a gun to my head asking which one of these teams could weasel their way closer, I would go with UNC for the location. Still , no secret that Roy and UNC dissed Wall for the longest time and his camp is not too happy about that.
That brings us to the two real players, this of course being my opinion. Duke is trying to set up a visit with Wall before the contact period is over. The Blue Devils made some major in roads and there are plenty of positives for both Wall and Duke should he end up in Durham. The Duke staff hopes staying close to home and honesty wins out. Of all the Wall suitors, Duke has pretty much backed up what they said and stayed straight up.
Duke could also start quite a pipeline for D-One Sports and Brian Clifton, but then again so could Kentucky. Make no mistake there are some deep pockets in the deep south and they tend to let it be known in one way or another that there are "opportunities," to be had. That's as nice as I could put it. Like Duke, Kentucky needs a point guard and Calipari will try to sell Wall that he is a one and done specialist.
If Jodie Meeks comes back, Wall better hope he gets some shots, but UK can sell him better should he remain in the draft. Personally, I don't see Meeks as a first rounder. I told you a good bit back Patrick Patterson would cast his name and I feel he stays in. I could go into all the prospects who are trying to sell John at various schools but that really isn't going to make that big of a difference.
Duke has put points in the pro's in Hurley, Williams and Duhon all first round picks. And Coach K has been straight with Wall in saying he hasn't really had a point in four or more years. Anyhow, enough rambling opinion, for this recruitment will take a few more twists and turns before Wall decides and you can count on a live announcement on ESPNU or some other network.
Still, at this time Duke is in as good a shape as possible but they will have to fight off Kentucky. Keep in mind, I could be wrong and admittedly, my opinion changes a bit as the wind blows on this one. Lastly, anyone who reads too much into comments in the coming days on Wall is wasting their time. Wall is changing some of his answers from one interview to the next and is obviously enjoying his day in the limelight. Please read our policies on sharing information on the message board. Sharing of information from our premium site is strictly prohibited. [/private]
Kyrie Irving is not disappointing the fans in attendance at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Irving has 28 points with 11:51 left in the second half and his team has a 45-30 lead. Check out BlueDevilNation's Twitter page for updates throughout the weekend. We expect to have live audio blogs up before the day is out, which is a first for any Duke site. This will be free throughout the TOC, but will be premium in the future. BDN has secured interviews and scouting reports with a bevy of Duke targets. It's a great time to join!
Before we get to the latest recruiting information, let me tell you what's coming to Blue Devil Nation Premium this week. We'll have an informative interview with Harrison Barnes and comments from one of his AAU coaches. BDN's Andrew Slater was on the scene at the Pittsburgh Jam Fest. Slater will have the latest, including interviews with Kyrie Irving, Ray McCallum and more. Both of us will offer scouting reports on prospects we see firsthand this week as well. Then there is some hot information on visits, but you have to be a member to see that.
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