Ray McCallum, Jr. is a listed 6’1” point guard from Detroit Country Day in Beverly Hills, Michigan. His father is the head coach at Detroit Mercy and was formerly an assistant under Kelvin Sampson at Indiana and Oklahoma. After his father took the head coaching job in Detroit, McCallum moved from Bloomington, Indiana to suburban Detroit. The diminutive and cerebral point led his new team to a 24-2 record and has developed into one of the more coveted point guards in the country. During the recent LeBron James Skills Academy, McCallum sat down with Blue Devil Nation to talk about a variety of topics.
(Blue Devil Nation Premiums summer AAU coverage is unmatched. Andrew Slater reported live from LeBron James Skills Academy this past week and the interviews are now rolling in. Mark Watson is headed to the Peach Jam, so the in person coverage continues. In fact, BDN will cover the rest of the major AAU events this season with our dedicated staff. Join now to see what you are missing. In a recednt survey our members overwhelmingly agreed that BDNP is the best subscription site around. You'll be glad you did.)
Blue Devil Nation
How is your recruiting going right now?
Ray McCallum:
It’s been good so far. I’m having fun with it, you know. Just trying to enjoy it because you only go through it once in your life. I’m just trying to enjoy it.
Blue Devil Nation:
Do you have a time frame for when you’d like to decide by?
Ray McCallum:
No, I’m just trying to enjoy the rest of the summer and again the last time I’m playing AAU ball. Have fun…see where I end up at the end of the summer and which schools are still interested in me.
BDN:
I'd really, what are some things that you’ll find in the school that you ultimately decide upon?
RM:
I want to go somewhere where there’s a good coach, a good team, a good history, a place where I can play, play my game, win, you know, academics. Everything really, you know.
Blue Devil Nation:
How important is immediate playing time for you?
Ray McCallum:
That’s my main goal. I mean I’ve been playing since I was little and I’ve always wanted to do that. I’ve been starting since I was a freshman. I’m going to leave it up to that and try to go somewhere where [private] I can come in and start.
Blue Devil Nation:
What are your strengths and what are some things you’d like to improve upon?
Ray McCallum:
I think my strengths are running a team, finding an open guy, you know, and I think can really score. I think all of those things and my shot. My shot has gotten a lot better. I’ve been working on that. I’ve gotten a lot better, but I really don’t think you can ever shoot it perfectly.
BDN:
How do you feel you’ve performed in the recent point guard camp, the NBAPA camp, and during the spring in general?
RM:
I feel I played real well. I mean the NBA camp was good. It was a good experience playing with the top one hundred players in the country and then coming here.
BDN:
Was this your first major sneaker camp?
RM:
Yeah, this was my first one. Then the Deron Williams was exciting, you know, getting to go against the top 20 pgs in the country.
Blue Devil Nation
:Well, let’s talk about that. Who were some of the toughest guys you faced there?
Ray McCallum:
Let’s see. Brandon Knight, Joe Jackson, Kyrie Irving, and Kendall Marshall…I mean everyone who was there was very talented. So, it was good and I felt like I learned a lot.
BDN:
Who’s been the most aggressive program recruiting you?
RM:
Well, pretty much everyone is showing me the same amount of love…right now.
BDN:
You get the one phone call per…
RM:
Yeah, the one phone call per week, er, month. I get a lot more e-mails and stuff like that.
Blue Devil Nation
How do you think that having a father who’s been a lifer in this business has differentiated from many other kids?
Ray McCallum:
I think I’ve got an advantage in the recruiting process. Going through what my dad’s been through, you know, being at a big time program. Seeing all the big-time players come through and how all of their recruiting goes.
Blue Devil Nation;
As his son, you’ve also seen firsthand and dealt with the recruiting losses that he had. The sometimes devastating nature of a coach having put in a lot of work on trying to secure a player… for the player to only decide at the last minute for another program.
Ray McCallum:
Yeah, it can be, but you’ve got to always think that if you miss out on one great player, that there is another out there to go get.
Blue Devil Nation
What schools have you visited so far?
Ray McCallum:
I went to Midnight Madness at Kansas. I went to a game at Notre Dame. I went to an unofficial at Arizona. Michigan for an unofficial. I went to a game last year at UCLA.
BDN:
What’s your current height and weight?
RM:
6’1” and 179.
BDN:
Who will you seek guidance from, whenever you do decide upon a college?
RM:
My parents really. They’ve taught me everything and I really rely on their advice.
Blue Devil Nation
Can you talk about the transition from Bloomington to Detroit Country Day?
Ray McCallum:
It’s been great. It’s an excellent school and a great mix with athletics. I’ve really improved as a ballplayer since I’ve moved there. I’m very fortunate to have wound up there.
BDN:
What’s it like at Detroit Country Day? I know they’re a great academic school and they’ve produced many great players like Webber and Shane Battier.
RM:
First of all, they compete for state championships in all sports and, you know, the Sporting News ranked it like fifth in the country in best high school sports programs…and, academically, it’s great and you have to wear a blazer.
Blue Devil Nation
You played with DaShonte Riley, Jordan Dumars, and Donnavan Kirk at Detroit Country Day. Have any of them encouraged you to go to college with them?
Ray McCallum:
They’ve all brought up their schools, but they’re mostly joking about me joining them.
Blue Devil Nation
The year before you arrived I remember Donnavan was somewhat frustrated that your predecessor wasn’t getting the big men the ball enough. As the point guard on that team, how did you try to placate all of those guys?
Ray McCallum:
Yeah, I averaged six assists. I tried to get everyone touches. I try to feed the bigs, you know. They told me the year before they didn’t really have a point guard. So, they didn’t get the ball. My main goal is to dominate this year.
BDN:
How’d you guys do?
RM:
Oh, man, we went 24-2 and we lost terribly in the Elite 8.
BDN:
Wow.
RM:
Yeah, the two teams we lost to were Bloomington
BDN:
I heard about that game and it must’ve been an emotional one for you.
RM:
Yeah, it was and Flint Power in the Elite 8.
BDN:
Who’d they have?
RM:
Nobody. They had nobody we should’ve had a problem.
BDN:
You know the year before, Kirk was saying he couldn’t believe they lost to a team with no starter taller than 6’3” and DCD had five D-I athletes and four guys 6’8” or bigger.
Blue Devil Nation
:Speaking of Dumars, did it take any time for you to get used to seeing Joe Dumars consistently at your home games?
Ray McCallum:
No, I’m real close with Joe and their family. Me and Jordan are best friends and I’m always over at their house. He’s at our practices.
BDN:
But it’s still an odd thing, compared to the average kid in America, to have the Pistons’ GM observing your high school games.
RM:
Oh, no, it’s definitely unique, but he’s real cool and you wouldn’t even know he was there. He’s got a real laid back and cool office too.
BDN:
How much will your role differ in the upcoming season?
RM:
Oh, it’s going to be real different. We only have one big kid left. He’s about 6’9”
BDN:
Amir Williams?
RM:
Yeah, he’s good and so we have me and a whole bunch of guards.
BDN:
Which players do you try to model your game after?
RM:
Let’s Chris Paul and D.J. Augustin actually.
BDN:
From a size perspective, Augustine is a good player for you to emulate. I know you had an injury last year. Has that completely healed?
RM:
Oh, yeah, I’m all good.
BDN:
Fairly or not, there was a perception that you were a Kansas lean for a little while. Is that accurate?
RM:
No, no, right now, everyone’s equal.
Blue Devil Nation
Do you view yourself as a scoring point guard?
Ray McCallum:
You know, when I play with great players, I pass first, you know, score, when I need to score. When you’re at camps like this…with such talented players, you’ve got to get everyone involved. However, when I’m with my high school team, I feel like I’m more of a scorer. I mean I think I’m a combination of both.
BDN:
What style of play do you feel best suits you?
RM:
I honestly think I can play either up-tempo or the half-court game.
BDN:
Now, you’ve moved around, but will distance be a factor at all?
RM:
No, not at all. I’ve been everywhere.
Blue Devil Nation
:Do you workout often?
Ray McCallum:
Oh, I workout everyday. I’m in the gym. I work on strength and conditioning.
BDN:
At Detroit Country Day or at your dad’s university?
RM:
Both, but Country Day has very good facilities for a high school.
BDN:
How closely do you follow college basketball?
RM:
All the time. Whenever there’s a game on, I’m watching it.
Blue Devil Nation
I’m sure you’ve vicariously felt the successes and the pains that your father has experienced on the recruiting front. How does it feel to be the one coveted? To be the prize.
Ray McCallum:
It’s crazy. It came so fast, you know. This was my last one. I can’t believe I’m in this situation and I’m very grateful for it.
Blue Devil Nation
Were you always highly recruited or did it change when your dad left Indiana?
Ray McCallum:
Well, yeah, but you’re right it really picked up when my dad left Indiana because before the other programs thought I’d go there because of him.
Blue Devil Nation
Do you know Mason Plumlee fairly well?
Ray McCallum:
Oh, yeah, Mason… That’s my boy. He’s like one of my best friends.
BDN:
Which Duke coaches have you communicated with?
RM:
Coach Collins. He-mails me quite often. Nate James will call me and tell me things.
Blue Devil Nation
What’s your feeling about Duke, both as a program and as a university as well?
Ray McCallum:
They have so much great history. It’s a great school and a great team. I mean they’re always guaranteed to get into the NCAA Tournament. And Coach K…he’s everything. In terms of the university, I mean it’s Duke. It’s amazing.
BDN:
What’s your opinion, from afar, of Coach Krzyzewski?
RM:
I mean he’s a Hall of Fame coach, he’s won three national titles, and just won a gold medal for the country. He’s very likely going to have the most wins of all-time.
Blue Devil Nation
Does your father have a relationship with him?
Ray McCallum:
I don’t think they’re too close, but they definitely know each other.
BDN:
What would you like the audience to know about you as a person?
RM:
I’d like them to think of me as a good person with a good character…likes to have fun, but is a good student. Just an overall good kid.
Blue Devil Nation
I think that’ll come across in this interview. Thanks for answering all of my questions.
Ray McCallum:
Oh, no problem. Thank you for asking me them. [/private]
Harrison Barnes goes airborne during his first game at the NBAPA Top 100 Camp, BDN will be throwing out timely updates all weekend long. Photo c/r BDN Photo
The NBAPA Top 100 Camp is underway and you can listen to BDN's audio updates from the event throughout the weekend. For the full effect join Blue Devil Nation Premum where we have already secured interviews with Brandon Knight, Andre Dawkins, Harrison Barnes and well, many others. Check back for the Harrison Barnes interview which we'll put up for free to give you an idea of the interviews our subscribers get on a regular basis.
BDN takes a look at the how the recruiting class of 2010 is shaping up. First of all we know that Josh Hairston, Andre Dawkins and Tyler Thornton are in the fold, but who are they really after to fill that class out? Duke is happy to have all three of these kids but they are still seeking an [private] athletic wing, a point guard and a physical presence down low.
What this mean is that Duke is looking to bring in six players next year and seven counting red shirt Curry. Duke is confident that current bigs in the program will all blossom. Mason and Miles Plumlee alongside Ryan Kelly and Olek Czyz give the Devils a lot to work with. Three of the four are very versatile players while one is an athletic project.
Harrison Barnes remains Duke's biggest target but he is followed closely by Kyrie Irving. Okay, you're asking where is Brandon Knight, right? Knight is very much on his radar, so he is still listing Duke but Brandon is hard to read and takes a low key approach to recruiting. He is well aware that there is a spot here if he wants to come, but Duke cannot sit by waiting on his decision. That's why they have turned it up with Kyrie Irving. Duke loves his athleticism and his demeanor. Duke very much feels that they have a good shot at landing Irving.
Duke will on the recruting trail in July and Irving and Barnes will get a lot of attention at that time. Duke is in desperate need of a point guard and Thornton is well aware that he'll likely be a backup at Duke and/or a program kid and is accepting of that role. The Blue Devils like Ray McCallum as well and they have been told that he is no hurry in his recruiting by those close to the situation. The bottom line is that Duke will look his way if and when there comes a time when they feel less confident with Irving.
Despite reports that Irving is leaning towards Indiana, recent statements to BDN indicated that he was in the early stages of the process. Irving will visit Duke in the near future. Duke feels as if his athleticism is just too enticing and again, they feel good about the situation. Should that change on his visit and different vibes are felt, then they'll turn their attention to Ray McCallum and offer him.
Harrison Barnes' recruitment will go on for a while yet, but Duke feels good about their positioning and their relationship with the key prospect. Again, he will visit Duke after he does UNC and this will be for the third time late this month. The feeling is that this one may go down very much like Kyle Singler's recruitment, meaning they felt confident but had to let it play out.
Ideally, Duke wants to bring in a wide body athletic type and don't sleep on a kid like DeMarco Cox for he is very much what they are looking for physically. While he needs work on his grades, there is time to turn that situation around. Duke is interested in Tarik Black, but they'll need to get some more views of him in order to get a good feel for his game. We'll keep you posted on any developments with concerns to unofficial visits and such.[/private]
Hear Ray McCallums words for yourself at BDN Premium
The Duke Men's Basketball team has broadened their search for a point guard. In fact, they have cast a wider net in the future with recruiting in general. We'll talk more about the new approach later, but for now, we'll concentrate on Ray McCallum.
With a glaring opening at the point guard spot, Duke has narrowed it down to three kids in the class of 2010. McCallum is one of those three, and he possesses pure point guard skills. He is a very good passer and loves to have the ball in his hands. The young man loves to win and had some nice things to say about Duke in an interview conducted shortly after his Team Detroit's game in Cameron.
BDN will now bring you the audio from that interview. We lead the way with opening questions but others join in as the session goes on. We want you to hear this interview as it really went down and, around here, we do not use answers to others' questions with a made up question that was never asked. [private] Audio will allow you, the fan, to hear the truth. Much more coming your way today and throughout the weekend.
Click 'play' on the icon below to hear the interview:
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
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]
Ray McCallum, Jr. is a listed 6’1” point guard from Detroit Country Day in Beverly Hills, Michigan. His father is the head coach at Detroit Mercy and was formerly an assistant under Kelvin Sampson at Indiana and Oklahoma. After his father took the head coaching job in Detroit, McCallum moved from Bloomington, Indiana to suburban Detroit. The diminutive and cerebral point led his new team to a 24-2 record and has developed into one of the more coveted point guards in the country. During the recent LeBron James Skills Academy, McCallum sat down with Blue Devil Nation to talk about a variety of topics. 
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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