Donkey

This will only help us if we want him to stay. I spoke with my source tonight. Pitchford leaving caught everyone by surprise. They fully expected him to remain with the team next season. Nothing new on TP. I do want to dispel any notion that Pitchford had a questionable work ethic. Pitchford worked hard on his game last summer, albeit with less fan fare than TP. I have NO truth to this statement, but did your source mention this maybe being a "mutual" agreement with the staff and Walt P? Just curious if there is more to this story than we know. A "mutual agreement" was not part of the discussion I had earlier tonight. However, based upon the tenor of the conversation, it seems like Pitchford's announcement really caught everyone off guard. As far as Haymarket Husker's assertion about Pitchford's work ethic, I have been told something different. The person I talk to never sugarcoats the info that is shared with me. I have been told some very interesting stuff, some of it very negative. However, I have chosen not to share most of what I am told. I'm not trying to discredit your source and appreciate the information you bring, but unless the staff and players are completely out of touch there's no way Walt's departure would come as a surprise to them. I'm going to leave it at that out of respect for all parties. Thanks for your candor. I really do not mind people challenging the information. As I have said before, if the information turns out to be incorrect, I will own up to it. I only share information on this board because I respect many of the regular posters. As for your remark about players and staff being "completely out of touch", I can only offer what I have been told. Evidently, Pitchford was at Hendricks Sunday acting like business as usual only to show up Monday to announce he was moving on. Further, based upon multiple conversations I have had in the past, TP and Tai were the only players identified to me who could potentially leave this spring. Finally, it has been reported that Miles contacted Edwards sometime on Monday and stated Edwards now had an open scholarship available (I guess Edwards' offer was contingent upon someone leaving). If Miles knew Pitchford was leaving, Edwards would have had a firm offer before Pitchford's announcement. Those facts are enough to convince me.

This will only help us if we want him to stay. I spoke with my source tonight. Pitchford leaving caught everyone by surprise. They fully expected him to remain with the team next season. Nothing new on TP. I do want to dispel any notion that Pitchford had a questionable work ethic. Pitchford worked hard on his game last summer, albeit with less fan fare than TP. I have NO truth to this statement, but did your source mention this maybe being a "mutual" agreement with the staff and Walt P? Just curious if there is more to this story than we know. A "mutual agreement" was not part of the discussion I had earlier tonight. However, based upon the tenor of the conversation, it seems like Pitchford's announcement really caught everyone off guard. As far as Haymarket Husker's assertion about Pitchford's work ethic, I have been told something different. The person I talk to never sugarcoats the info that is shared with me. I have been told some very interesting stuff, some of it very negative. However, I have chosen not to share most of what I am told.

This will only help us if we want him to stay. I spoke with my source tonight. Pitchford leaving caught everyone by surprise. They fully expected him to remain with the team next season. Nothing new on TP. I do want to dispel any notion that Pitchford had a questionable work ethic. Pitchford worked hard on his game last summer, albeit with less fan fare than TP.

Everything I have been told is that Terran would be welcome back if he wants to return.

I thought I read "graduate transfers" would still be immediately eligible. But guys transferring to get "closer to home" would no longer be eligible for exemptions that would allow them to play right away. I could be wrong. I think we need some more clarification but I think the Russell Wilson rule is still in effect. The way it has been explained to me by someone intimately familiar with the NCAA guidelines is that once a student signs the scholarship paperwork, the student is not allowed to participate in team activities with another school until the student has received a release. This rule also applies to graduate transfers such as Russell Wilson who had to be released from NC State in order to play for Wisconsin.

As I have said before, for TP to transfer, there is an issue which needs to be resolved that is outside of TP and Nebraska's control. It would not surprise me if that is the reason why TP told Lee B. a transfer is out of the question. I will keep sharing whatever info I am allowed. Every time I talk to my source, I always ask if I can specifically post on this board. Most of the time, I am told "no" and the few times I am permitted, I have to vet the wording before I can post anything. One exception though, I am allowed to confirm or controvert information already posted.

Yes and since that time, I have been told something else. Interesting... Not saying you are wrong because I could totally see that changing. That tweet was right after our last loss so I could see emotions playing into why he said that. I do not mind being called out. I am just posting what I am allowed to share. If I am wrong, then I received bad information. I did not know this rumor was share elsewhere and you do have my word this board is the only one I have posted any basketball inside information. Further, I am not resharing information I read on another board. My contact has been spot on all season but things always change. I wish I could share more but am not allowed.

Yes and since that time, I have been told something else.

I read the average salary in the D-league for an entire season is 12K-24K. Yeah, that's not going to get him very far. If it's about money, he would be better off using his degree to get a normal job. Assuming Europe is not in the equation.Ok but let's forget about the money (or lack thereof) for a second and think about which is the best forum for TP to showcase his skills. What is the best proving ground? Is the quickest potential path for TP to the nba to come back to Nebraska and play another full season in an ideally (for Nebraska) more efficient and less load-bearing role against college kids or is it best to prove himself against other pros who are trying to make it? This would also be without the restriction of a full season college commitment where he could be picked up and signed to an NBA team, 10-day contracts and such, if he has proven himself worthy of such and get a foot in the door with a team, work his way in that way. In no way is Nebraska a viable option if he's thinking in terms of how quickly he could potentially get to the league. I don't think money he would be making as a D-leaguer has any sway on his decision whatsoever. This line of thinking does not go along with what I have been told. TP has two main focuses (1) proximity to his mother and (2) play in the NBA. By "NBA", I mean the National Basketball Association and not the D-League. If TP receives assurances (which from what I have been told he has not at this time) that he will be drafted, TP will declare for the NBA. If he receives no assurances that he will be drafted, TP's next preference is to play his last year closer to his mother. If he is unable to do that (the potential for a problem exists), TP will stay at Nebraska. TP already said he won't use the 5th year senior thing. Its NBA or Nebraska. Just sharing what I have been told. If I am wrong, I will admit it.

I read the average salary in the D-league for an entire season is 12K-24K. Yeah, that's not going to get him very far. If it's about money, he would be better off using his degree to get a normal job. Assuming Europe is not in the equation.Ok but let's forget about the money (or lack thereof) for a second and think about which is the best forum for TP to showcase his skills. What is the best proving ground? Is the quickest potential path for TP to the nba to come back to Nebraska and play another full season in an ideally (for Nebraska) more efficient and less load-bearing role against college kids or is it best to prove himself against other pros who are trying to make it? This would also be without the restriction of a full season college commitment where he could be picked up and signed to an NBA team, 10-day contracts and such, if he has proven himself worthy of such and get a foot in the door with a team, work his way in that way. In no way is Nebraska a viable option if he's thinking in terms of how quickly he could potentially get to the league. I don't think money he would be making as a D-leaguer has any sway on his decision whatsoever. This line of thinking does not go along with what I have been told. TP has two main focuses (1) proximity to his mother and (2) play in the NBA. By "NBA", I mean the National Basketball Association and not the D-League. If TP receives assurances (which from what I have been told he has not at this time) that he will be drafted, TP will declare for the NBA. If he receives no assurances that he will be drafted, TP's next preference is to play his last year closer to his mother. If he is unable to do that (the potential for a problem exists), TP will stay at Nebraska.

Thanks for the info. In regards to Petteway he said he would not play for any other college besides Nebraska. So if he wants to be closer to his mom, and NBA is not an option. What other option is there besides Nebraska? Based upon what I was told today, Petteway would move on as a graduate transfer.

I spoke with my friend this morning and was authorized to share the following. 1. Petteway wants to be closer to his mother next year (which the Nebraska completely understands and sympathizes with the situation). However, due to stuff outside of both Petteway and Nebraska's control, Petteway will return to Nebraska if he is unable to play next season closer to his mother. The NBA is not a consideration at this point (of course that could always change). 2. It still sounds like Tai could possibly leave as well. I would be surprised if any other players left. 3. If Petteway and/or Tai leave, expect the staff to target graduate transfers, specifically big men, instead of high school or JUCO kids. Please understand I am limited with what I can share. As things unfold (or if I am given permission), I will share more details.

I think there are a lot of good points on both sides on the discussion of Miles having an open scholarship. However, throughout this entire conversation, I have not read one person naming a particular player who could have filled the open scholarship. It is extremely easy to claim Miles should have signed a post player, a point guard, a shooter, etc. Any one can play that game. Unless a specific player is named who clearly wanted to sign with Nebraska and eventually signed with another P5 school, I think any criticism over unused scholarships is unmerited. From what I have seen and been told, Miles will not sign players simply to fill out his bench. Instead, Miles will give the scholarship to a deserving walkon. That strategy makes sense. Instead of reaching for a guy to sit on your bench, give it to a local kid and thus develop goodwill within the community. Then, you can use the open scholarship to bring in a graduate transfer, JUCO kid, or a transfer from another school. The walkon will not raise a fuss because he is happy to have been on scholarship for a year, and Miles will not be viewed as a Nick Saban type coach who pulls scholarships from recruits who do not pan out. Additionally, I do not think anyone can claim Miles is not working hard on the recruiting front. If Miles was able to bring a guy who worked in his system, the open scholarship would have been filled.

It is understandable to be frustrated. I have been told many of the players themselves are taking this losing streak seriously and are frustrated as well. However, bagging on each other really does not help board morale. Admittedly, I have made a few cutting remarks in the past, but they have not really served any value. As for my remark about running the table, it is not unheard of. I frequently am reminded of the 2011/2012 Western Kentucky team which ran the Sun Belt Conference Tournament to qualify for the NCAA. At least one school, North Texas (I believe), was good enough to be an at large bubble. WKU had a losing record but it was mostly due to lackadaisical play (WKU had some of the top talent in the conference). However, they caught fire right at the end of the season. I also remember the 1998/1999 Illinois, 1995/1996 Duke, 2005-2006 Syracuse, and 2008/2009 Baylor teams which nearly ran though conference tournament play to qualify for the NCAAs. All five schools fought through adversity to at least get to their respective conference championship games. Every year, at least one conference has one of those teams. The BIG, outside of Wisconsin, is not as dominant as it was last year. Heck, look at the 2012-2013 Nebraska squad which advanced to the quarterfinals and played Ohio State tough. Had Nebraska advanced to the semi-finals, a loss to Michigan State was not a given. While it is more likely Nebraska will lose in the first round than advance to the finals, the season is not over until Nebraska is beaten in the BIG tourney. If this team finally comes together, they have the talent to advance.

At this point I don't think I would feel safe unless I was Petteway, Shields and White. And maybe Tarin. Outside of that, I think the rest could potentially be on the chopping block. With Fuller getting more and more playing time, I assume he's one of the guys who the coaching staff is reaching. As of Thursday, Tai is the only name potential transfer name I have heard. However, I have not spoken with anyone since the Maryland game.

Unfortunately this is fodder for non-Husker message boards to demonstrate our fan base is delusional. Many weeks ago I would have posted something similar. But with the current losing streak and the beat-down yesterday, I think it is time we preserve our sanity and write off the season for once and for all. Fine, I am delusional. Thanks for the riveting analysis.

I understand why Miles is doing taking action. He must do something as it appears he is on the verge of losing the team. However, this type of action may be extreme enough to completely lose the team. On the flip side, it could refocus and bring them all together. I really hope it works. The last thing Nebraska needs is to replace Miles. After watching the team live at Maryland, I feel this team could beat any BIG team on a neutral court except for Wisconsin. Fuller gained confidence as the game wore on. Once he becomes involved in the offense, I think his PT will skyrocket. Pitchford looked really good when he got looks at the top of the key. The defense is tournament worthy. I have personally witnessed less talented teams advance in the NCAA's. A part of me is really hoping the light will come on within the next week or so and the team will make a magical run through the BIG tourney and into the NCAA. Yes, that sounds crazy, but I really think the talent is there to do it.

There are a number of people on this board who know far more about basketball than I from an X&O's or pure assessment of talent perspective. However, I do have an extremely strong grasp of organizational development, leadership, and other areas which translates alike between different areas of industry as well as sports. That being said, I like this team and trust Miles. It has been almost a few decades since Nebrasketball was anywhere near an offensive juggernaut. One does not simply come in, waive pixy dust over the players and suddenly have an offensive system. I remember announcers comparing Doc's offensive players making their way back and forth around the three point akin to wipers on a windshield. That was painful to watch. Miles' offense has been good enough to win but never dominant. Miles' offense is a blend of perimeter shooters and guys driving to the hoop. Last season, Rey was a legitimate commodity. On any given game he had the propensity to lite it up from beyond the 3pt line. While as a senior Rey did not really have an in conference blow up game, Rey's junior year was another story. Rey was a weapon simply being on the floor. Walter also gave teams fits with his perimeter scoring as well. As a result, driving lanes were opened up for Terran and Shavon. This season, Rey graduated, Walter tried more of a post game, Hawkins (who was supposed to add that shooting element) transferred, and Fuller has not fully physically developed. Despite improvement, Tai should not be viewed as a sniper like Rey. Tarin is only a freshman. So that leaves us with . . . whom? Further, despite attempts to develop Walter, Nebraska does not really have a post up game. That leaves Nebraska with a one dimensional offense. Teams can crowd up the middle and try to prevent fast break points. To blame Mollinari is too simplistic. The guy came in as a defensive specialist. Last I checked, Nebraska is playing good, maybe even great at times, defense. I would look further down the bench if you want to address the offense.

I have barely been able to watch any games this season. How does the upcoming schedule measure up? What needs to improve to run the table?

Are some of the under-coaching issues on the offensive or defensive side? A very old friend of mine, who is a life-long Louisville fan, adamantly maintains that Ric Pitino is a poor in-game offensive strategist. Specifically that Pitino struggles devising plays in close games where Louisville is behind. He claims Pitino wins because of (a) superb pre-game preparation and ( b ) better athletes. Once Pitino has a manageable lead, Pitino's defenses can close out the games. However, Ric Pitino led teams struggle when the other side has adjusted to the offensive game plan. From what I have seen of Richard Pitino, it would not surprise me if he has that issue as well.

Based upon what Miles has done in the past and what he is doing now, Miles' recruiting seems to fall into three categories: 1. 6'5" and below players: focuses on focus on ball handling and passing. Shooting skills are a bonus. 2. 6'6"-6'8" players: focus on scoring ability. 3. 6'9" and above players: Rebounding and blocking shots emphasis. Please note that that players recruited by Miles must be good defenders. Assuming the above strategy is the case, most of the 6'9" and above guys targeted by Miles are great athletes who are not great (maybe not even good) offensively but are committed to rebounding and defense. This focus would allow Miles to recruit a wider range of big guys. As long as Miles offensive philosophy works, I am good with that type of focus. Its similar to what Duke has done in the past.

Thing is most people think about players in term of their NBA potential. Happens in every sport that people value you them based on where they think they will get drafted. Petteway is not on any major mock draft right now which will lead people to not include him on their lists. We obviously have a more vested interest in him because he is our star player so we may value him more than someone that doesn't have a dog in the fight when it comes to ranking. I'm just happy to have a guy on the list and know that our team will be just fine. Most of the early season draft lists focus on player potential. Petteway is already an "old" man by NBA draft standards. Once a player hits 22 years old, most NBA teams believe the player's potential is close to maxed out and will draft based upon skill set and need. That being the case, I am not sure if Petteway would lose much as far a draft positioning if he came back another year. I am curious though whether Petteway has considered graduate school and would play another year at Nebraska. What is his major?

Admittedly, I was surprised to see McDermott cheering for Northwestern last night and have no idea why it occurred. My best guess . . . I think McDermott sees Creighton at a cross roads of sorts. For decades, Creighton was a mid-major that regularly made the tournament and would advance 1-2 times in a 10 year period. For a mid-major, that is a big deal. Mid-majors recruit sleepers, late bloomers, etc, and field senior laden teams all while developing their system. Creighton is no longer a mid-major and is good enough to challenge for a major conference title. However, it has lost the best player in its history. Does Creighton stay with its mid-major strategy or does it embrace it's now major college position by targeting higher profile players, engage in recruiting battles with other major programs, and create a national brand? I think McDermott's action clearly sends the message it wants to run with the big dogs. To do that, Creighton needs its own identity. It can no longer be Nebraska's little brother. By openly cheering against Nebraska during a football game, Creighton is clearly braking away from Nebraska's shadow, creating a stronger rivalry, and sending the message to all the Jayskers to choose a loyalty. In truth, Tim Miles coming to Nebraska will only help Creighton's exposure. A bitter rivalry will get both schools more national exposure (think Kentucky/Louisville, Duke/UNC, heck at one time Xavier/Cincinnati was incredibly interesting).

I walked around Chicago for two days with Nebraska gear on. People constantly were asking me who Nebraska was playing this weekend. Not one of them knew Nebraska was playing Northwestern. I did notice Northwestern having a huge campaign claiming to be "Chicago's University". Having McDermott lead that cheer was probably an extension of that campaign. As for the Jaysker thing, people are certainly welcome to cheer for whomever they want. But do not get upset when one of your teams actively promotes against your other team. How many people do you know cheer for both Kentucky and Lousville? What about Duke and UNC? Creighton wants create a national brand. It does that by having strong rivalries. Creighton is in a new conference without any clear rivalries. Going after Nebraska not only helps its national exposure as well as sending a message Creighton no longer wants to share the Omaha market with Nebraska. To all Jayskers, either accept that one of your teams doesn't like the other, or reevaluate your allegiances.

I am very ready for the season to begin.