Illinitalk

What more could any great coach ask for on his 80th birthday? Former Illini coach Lou Henson got to see many former players, his name and picture raised to the top of Assembly Hall, a birthday serenade from Illini nation, and the upset of a top 5 team on his birthday. Sounds like a great day!

The upset win came despite Ohio State having more rebounds and significantly fewer turnovers (11, compared to 18 for the generous Illini). The current Illini starters did their part in giving Coach Henson a gift/game to remember:

• Brandon Paul... there aren't words to adequately describe his career performance. 43 points. 8 of 10 from 3, including that ridiculous shot at the end of the shot clock with Aaron Craft's hand in his face. 4 blocks - highlight material. 2 steals. 8 rebounds. And 7 turnovers, just so he has some room for improvement. Paul was determined to win, and his demeanor on the floor showed it.
• Meyers Leonard didn't achieve another double-double, but his 14 points and constant fighting with player-of-the-year candidate Jared Sullinger were critical to the win. Although he didn't have any blocks, he played solid defense, altered shots, and proved that he can play against the best. Leonard should have gotten the ball a bit more often, but game tape will show the Illini how to improve here.
• Joe Bertrand drove, pulled up and shot his floater with continued accuracy. He did miss a couple shots, but his game adds a valuable element to the Illini offense that opponents haven't clamped down on yet. Plus, he added 7 rebounds. He has earned his starting spot, and we are finally seeing why he, Paul and D.J. Richardson made up such a strong recruiting class.
• D.J. Richardson played all 40 minutes, even with his recently banged-up wrist. That's impressive in a game characterized by fast-paced runs alternating with long, grind-it-out half-court sets. Although his scoring was down, his defense, assists and tenacity were critical in the upset.
• Back-up point guard Tracy Abrams has lots to learn, but he earned plenty of experience in this game. And that will pay off as he develops.
  

Even with a big win, the Illinio gave Coach Henson plenty of reason to be glad he is retired. And reason for Coach Weber to keep them working during their 8-day break. Unforced turnovers. Not getting the ball to an open, hungry Leonard. No free throws for Leonard. A scoreless bench, even though Tyler Griffey added a couple key steals, and Myke Henry had another. Giving up 15 offensive rebounds.

Bruce Weber's Illini currently define the phrase "playing to the competition." Against Nebraska, a team struggling as they get to know their new conference, the Illini allowed them to hang around the entire game. But against #5 Ohio State, they stepped up with tough defense and great shooting. In fact, with the exceptions of the losses to UNLV and Purdue and a couple cupcake wins, the Illini have played everyone close. This will be another thing for the Illini to work on during their break in the conference schedule.

But all said, there was plenty to be excited about in Champaign, especially after that less-than-impressive home performance against the Cornhuskers last weekend. Go Illini!

Labels: Brandon Paul, Bruce Weber, D.J. Richardson, Illini basketball, Joseph Bertrand, Lou Henson, Myers Leonard, Tracy Abrams

The Illini men's golf team wrapped up a strong season, and looks to stay intact for next season. The Big Ten Champions led the nation with 7 tournament victories as a team and advanced to the NCAA Championship tournament for the second year in a row.

On top of that, the Illini had outstanding individual performances from players all season, and coach Mike Small was honored with the 2009 Big Ten and Midwest Regional Coach of the Year awards.

In other Illini news:

• Bruce Weber did a very nice job with the 7th inning stretch at Wrigley, and signed a 3-year contract extension.
• Regis Benn was tabbed as a pre-season All-American by Athlon Sports, and Athlon's 2009 Big Ten College Football magazine will feature Juice on the cover.
• Illinois freshman outfielder/DH Willie Argo was named a Louisville Slugger Freshman All-American after an outstanding rookie season.
• Based on the first two months of the Cubs' season, I'm really looking forward to college football...

Enjoy the summer!

Labels: Bruce Weber, Illini golf, Regis Benn

Dear Rick,

Normally I enjoy reading your columns in the Chicago Tribune. However, every once in a while you decide to write something that is just completely, off the charts ridiculous. That would be the case today in your column entitled:

Illinois fans can consider Bob Knight
Orange you glad that former nemesis Bob Knight might be available to coach in Illini colors? Or is that just a nightmare?

Now I know that at least part of your job is to write things that get people talking in order to sell more newspapers. And I know that I may be helping you out by highlighting this article in Illinitalk and drawing more attention to it.

For that Rick, you are welcome. But come on, are you kidding me? While you seem to realize what you are writing, you end by saying "You'd be silly if you didn't consider it." I take that to mean you are at least partially serious.

I have to tell you, of all the things that crossed my mind when Bob Knight resigned as coach of Texas Tech, consideration of him as a possible coach of the Illini never crossed my mind. It will/would not happen for so many reasons I could not list them all here.

However, please allow me to explain the most important reason why it will not happen. Unlike some Illini fans, I strongly disagree with those who are calling for Bruce Weber's job right now. Like you, I believe he is a kind, decent man and a very good basketball coach. And like others, Illinitalk has been critical of some of his recruiting failures in the past. As we all know this has been a very difficult season for Coach Weber and the Illini.

But for those with a long term view, it appears to me that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Next year, Alex Legion and Jamar Smith will presumably be able to play while promising freshman Demetri McCamey and Mike Tinsdale will have a season under their belts. In 2009, Coach Weber has verbal commitments from four very good to great recruits. In 2010, he already has verbal commitments from two more very good to great recruits.

After the Gordon situtation, Illini fans won't take anything for granted until the commitment letters are signed but the future looks very promising right now for the Illini. Making a coaching change now would jeopardize all of these verbal commitments and potentially put the Illini back to square one. If that coaching change was to Bob Knight, I guarantee that not all of those recruits are coming to Illinois. In addition, Knight is not a long term solution for anyone, including Illinois.

Enough said. Please Rick, no more columns about Bob Knight as a possible coach for the Illini. Thanks for your consideration of this request.

Best regards,

Good Hope Orange

Labels: Bob Knight, Bruce Weber, Coaching, Illini basketball, Recruiting, Rick Morrissey

I was talking to a good friend of mine yesterday who is an Indiana fan. He told me he felt like we deserved to win the game Thursday night. I told him actually I didn't think so.

Pruitt's poor free throw shooting aside (a senior not icing the game from the line is reason enough for me to say we didn't deserve to win) our team, coaching staff and perhaps most of all our fans acted in a pretty classless way. That should not be Illinois basketball. Win or lose.

I didn't watch the entire game Thursday night but from what I watched and if even half of what Mariotti says is true, our folks need to grow up. Can we at least lose with dignity?

At least Guenther and Weber issued an apology. But waiting until the day after? Does it take that long for them to realize things were a little out of control? Did Weber not see Chester's chest bump? If so, does he approve of what he did? I don't because I don't want our players to have the reputation of a bunch of thugs.

And as for the fans, I'm fine with screaming at Gordon and Sampson. They deserve it. And that passion is what a rivalry is all about. But please leave the profanity out of it. I'd like to be able to take my kids to the games someday.

Finally, a word to Indiana fans: You guys aren't much better. I'm all for a good rivarly and the arguing that goes with it. And if you want to come over here and talk smack in our comment section, that's fine. But leave the classless profanity out of it or your posts will be deleted.

Incidentally, my friend (who graduated from IU) said he was also ashamed of their fan behavior. He said he's sick of hearing the F bomb dropped at their place. After getting up this morning and reading the comments from the IU fans here, I believe it.

It's time to grow up, people.

Labels: Bruce Weber, Eric Gordon, Jay Mariotti, Kelvin Sampson, Ron Guenther

Sun-Times' Michael O'Brien reports that Joseph Bertrand committed to Illinois last night.

This is very good news. O'Brien points out that the Richardson, Paul, Bertrand haul comes about a year after the guy Deron Williams affectionately referred to as "I don't know who that is" threw Weber under the bus by stringing him along. All you have to do is take a look at Illinois' '07 and '08 recruiting classes to see the impact that had.

Now, is the well still poisoned? Has Weber exorcised the demons?

Only time will tell but this is a very good start. Usually all it takes is one player to get the ball rolling and now we have three. Sorta reminds me of the roll Thad Matta got on about a year or two ago when guys started committing to him in droves.

Now I'm not saying Weber is Matta, or even Ron Zook for that matter, but if he can consistently recruit like this and turn it into a pattern, we should be in very good shape. BTW, this should also solidify Jereme Richmond in the '10 class.

Welcome to Guard U. fellas.

Labels: Brandon Paul, Bruce Weber, D.J. Richardson, Deron Williams, I don't know who that is, Joseph Bertrand, Michael O'Brien

After all the not-so-subtle leaks that came out of the UI SID office, it wasn't hard to figure out that Jerrance Howard was going to be the new assistant coach for men's hoops.

What remains to be seen is if this will give the program the boost it needs in the recruiting department.

Although I like Jerrance and know he's loyal, I wonder if he's old enough to have the recruiting connections he needs. And of course there is still the question of Weber's ability to close the deal.

We'll see.

Labels: Bruce Weber, Jerrance Howard

This should not surprise anyone. I think it's important to note what Miller said, though:

"Yeah Coach Webster was a big part of it. He recruited me the most at Illinois and when he decided to come to Kentucky that really helped. He is a great guy and I like him a lot."

As I've said before, the assistant opening for the Illinois hoops program is a great opportunity to bring in a powerhouse recruiter. I just wish Webster didn't leave since it's pretty obvious he was the best recruiter on staff.

Again, it goes without saying that this is a pivotal time for the hoops program. I hope a top-notch recruiter can right the ship but Weber has to land him first.

And even if he does, I don't think my biggest fear is unreasonable: Webster was getting recruits interested in Illinois and Weber couldn't close the deal. Therefore Webster left for greener pastures to avoid a meltdown.

If true, Illinois needs a recruiter who can close. Otherwise, mail it in...we're done.

Labels: Bruce Weber, Darius Miller, Tracy Webster

I asked for an assistant shake-up on the Illini hoops staff. We have one.

Tracy Webster is joining Billy Clyde at Kentucky. Great get for UK. Webster has awesome ties to Chicago, is close with Darius Miller (who I would assume is now going to UK) and was the lead recruiter for Jereme Richmond .

Now it's time for Weber to go out and get a big-time recruiter. I would suggest taking into account relationship to the Chicago Public League coaches.

I will go as far as to say this decision could make or break Weber's tenure at Illinois. He makes a slam dunk hire, we are back in business. He whiffs and the program will not survive. Not with Self, Gillispie and Sampson choking off our talent pool.

Labels: Bill Self, Billy Gillispie, Bruce Weber, Darius Miller, Jereme Richmond, Kelvin Sampson, Tracy Webster

I’ve been wanting to post this for some time and with the recent news regarding recruiting, Jamar Smith and Quinton Watkins, now is the perfect time. Please note these are my personal opinions, not those of Good Hope Orange or Alma Mater. Below is my opinion on the current state of play for the Illinois hoops program and what needs to be done to right the ship.

Bruce Weber is a fantastic basketball coach. You don’t lead a team to the national championship game without being good at the x’s and o’s. Nor can you get there without great players. Weber had both. Hence his success.

However, since the title game against North Carolina, if there is anything else conceivable that could have gone wrong, I’m not sure what it is. Even though much of what has happened can’t be pinned completely on Weber, it’s time for Ron Guenther to step in and stop the bleeding. This program can still be successful with Weber at the helm but there needs to be a few course corrections in order to get there.

The biggest issue is recruiting. Many of the misses aren’t Weber’s fault. But that doesn’t change the reality that Illinois is two years removed from an appearance in the national championship game, an event that should have propelled the program’s recruiting ability into the upper echelon of programs nationwide.

Therefore it’s not unreasonable, in the wake of the magical 04-05 season, for fans and the university administration (of which Ron Guenther is a part) to expect Illinois to be in competition for the Big Ten title most every year and within striking distance of the Final Four every few years.

However, this is not the case.

It’s important to give a coach the benefit of the doubt. So I’ll use the premise that Weber did all he could with the Eric Gordon situation. However, that doesn’t change the fact that it’s consequences are extremely damaging.

Therefore, recruiting for the ‘08 class is a true measure of Weber’s capability in this area and so far the results are borderline disastrous as almost all of Illinois’ top targets, even those from within the state, have decided to play elsewhere. Two of them (one a legacy) are even headed out to Oregon.

Illinois’ current and future rosters consist of a hodgepodge of three-star recruits and JUCO players. Some of these players may turn out to do pretty well for Illinois but they are not the top flight players who don’t need insurance policies that Illinois should be getting.

Therefore, it’s not unreasonable, especially given the talent other Big Ten programs like Michigan State and Ohio State are bringing in, to expect Illinois to finish somewhere near the middle of the Big Ten pack the next few years. At a bare minimum we cannot expect Big Ten title runs year in and year out and the occasional Final Four, which, in this fan’s opinion, should be expected given the recent title run.

So what to do? It is time for Ron Guenther to step in and hire a Jimmy Collins-type recruiting assistant for the basketball program. This is the only way to stop the current bleeding.

It doesn’t matter if the current situation isn’t completely Weber’s fault. It doesn’t even matter if it was mostly out of his control. There is no more room for error. Without a course correction and a drastic improvement in recruiting the Illinois basketball program is going to be fighting to stay in the middle of the Big Ten standings year in and year out.

This should not be acceptable to anyone. Not to the fans. Not to the coaches. Not to the university administration. No one. Especially given the recent success of the program.

And, the ultimate success of the program should be laid at the feet of Guenther, who should have been aware of Weber’s recruiting contacts and prowess when he was hired. If he wasn’t, there is a problem with the athletic director.

Speculation time: Will this happen? I doubt it. My impression could be wrong and I would be happy if it is but both men don’t exactly seem to be open to change. Again, I hope I’m wrong.

Which leads me to the next situation: Jamar Smith.

Jamar Smith was convicted of a felony. I realize he has apologized for what he did but that doesn’t change the fact that Weber and Guenther were the ones fighting to have someone convicted of a felony stay on the team, even if he does have to redshirt a year. Therefore, what makes Illinois any different than the Miami Hurricane football teams of the 80’s or Bob Huggins’ Cincinnati basketball teams?

Nothing.

If this kind of publicity doesn’t make them wince, they must not care about the image of the university. I’d be awfully surprised if fans aren’t getting tired of seeing national headlines like this.

I realize all situations are different and sometimes folks deserve a second chance but this is a poor precedent to set for the university and the students, not only because of the DUI but because Jamar Smith is underage. I cannot think of an absolutely worse standard to set for a state university where it’s already difficult to control the booze flow, especially among those who are underage, than to let a high-profile athlete who is under 21 stay on the team after he commits a DUI.

The message this sends to students and student athletes is there are no consequences for their actions and as an alum I’m disgusted by it. Unfortunately this is the latest in a long string of problems our players have had with the law and until a tougher standard is employed, I’m afraid it won’t be the last.

In conclusion, it’s time for Ron Guenther to make a very serious mid-course correction in the Illinois basketball program and hire a recruiter who will close the Illinois border and bring the state’s best players to Champaign.

Guenther and Weber should also rethink their policy for Jamar Smith or at least toughen their policies in the future.

The ultimate success of Illinois basketball hinges on these two issues.

Labels: Bruce Weber, Illinois basketball, Jamar Smith, Quinton Watkins, Ron Guenther

Mark Tupper has all the latest here on Ron Zook and Bruce Weber's whistlestop tour after they stopped in Decatur. Looks like Zook is hitting the recruiting trail hard while Weber enjoyed a colonoscopy that he said was "a pain in the butt." At least he didn't pull a Katie Couric and do it live on WCIA.

Labels: Bruce Weber, colonoscopy, Katie Couric, Ron Zook

This new blog entry from the News-Gazette's Paul Klee has some good info on Quinton Watkins' recruitment. I particularly enjoyed this quote from Coach Weber:

"He committed (to USC) pretty early," Weber said. "I remember him at (a summer) camp, looking at the list and saying, 'He's a good player, that guy's a good player.' But you ask where he's going, and they say, 'Well, he's already committed.' So you don't move forward.

Begin debate on whether this is Weber just being honest or taking a shot at our friends from that school to the east.

Labels: Bruce Weber, Paul Klee, Quinton Watkins

Some may argue with me because they hate the media and/or don't trust them but I believe maintaining a good relationship with them is an important part of any coach's job. I realize this doesn't apply in every single case (see Bobby Knight) but much more often than not, it's in the coach's best interest to treat the media with respect and dignity, no matter how much the coach disagrees with them. I even would go as far as to argue that his/her success or failure to some extent hinges on his or her skills with the media.

The reason I believe this? Perception=reality and in this day of 24-hour news cycles, blogs, YouTube, e-mail, message boards, etc., news travels fast. Especially bad news. Therefore, it is very easy to get a negative perception very quickly that is very hard to turn around. If the media doesn't like a coach, they are less likely to write about his/her successes and more likely to write about his/her failures.

In fact, there is nothing the media likes to cover more than a rising or falling star.

To that end, Bruce Weber fed into the falling star perception at his press availability yesterday. Take a look:



This is not at all helpful to an Illinois basketball program that is already struggling both on the court and in the court of public perception. I understand Weber is stressed but he's paid not to lose his cool, especially with the press. It doesn't help the confidence of the fans, alumni or recruits.

Speaking of recruits, it sounds like some Pac-10 school like Arizona may be after Quinton Watkins. That is a good sign. It must mean he's good. But it also means Weber needs to hold on to him. If he doesn't, he might as well quite recruiting. Eric Gordon was stolen and if Eric Gordon's replacement gets stolen then every coach is in the country is gonna know they can take whatever recruits they want from Weber.

Can you see the handwriting on the wall yet? He'll get even more upset. Have another meltdown...vicious cycle. He needs to break it. Now.

Labels: Bruce Weber, Eric Gordon, Quinton Watkins

This is not good.

My fellow contributors at Illinitalk may disagree with me but even though Jamar may plead for lesser charges, I still believe Weber needs to come down hard on him. I lean toward not playing at U of I again.

My reasoning is thus: tough punishment deters crime. This is the second DUI by an Illinois basketball player this year. That is unacceptable. It creates a perception problem for the program and the university.

Interestingly enough, the university has a large chunk of it's student code devoted to alcohol but no guidelines on punishment that I could find.

Labels: Bruce Weber, Jamar Smith

• You can follow all the signing day action LIVE on the Fighting Illini Athletic Department's blog here. NOTE: Martez and Brent are in the house baby!
• Apparently some folks are really bitter about Zook's haul today. NY Times has a huge story with a couple folks insinuating that we're dirty. One of them is former MSU coach John L. Smith. You know...the guy who slapped himself after we beat them this year and then later was fired. What a bitter man. NOTE: Whoever planted this story needs to buy a clue. If we're dirty, Bruce Weber sure is a terrible cheater.
• I somewhat disagree with Alma Mater. Although injuries make is difficult to gauge where this team should really be and all programs go through down years for one reason or another, after our championship run two years ago, the basketball program should be expected to be a constant in the Top 25 and consistently challenge for the Big Ten title and make a Final Four run every three to four years or so. When the norm becomes the middle of the pack, then we are in trouble because we aren't improving. Maybe my expectations are too high. Discuss.
  

Labels: Bruce Weber, John L. Smith, Josh Brent, Martez Wilson, Ron Zook