I am trying to think about next year now. Even though I am still gloomy over the state of our football program and our early exit in the tourney, our immediate future (at least in basketball) is indeed bright.
I am 100% confident that Jared Sullinger returns next year, however, I think Buford bolts for the NBA.
We are lucky to have a guy like Aaron Craft, who I believe is a four year player who will develop into one of the best players in the country by his junior and season seasons. Another guy, Deshaun Thomas, will benefit most from this upcoming off season in my opinion. I think his first full off season will turn him into a more complete offensive threat. Thomas is another guy who I believe will stay at least until his junior year.
Then we have a trio of players: Jordan Sibert, Lenzelle Smith Jr., and J.D. Weatherspoon who will be sophomores next year looking to contribute more than they did this year. I think at least one or two of these guys (Sibert for sure) will be a significant contributor off of the bench. And who knows, maybe Sibert starts at shooting guard next year if Buford leaves.
I also can't forget the underrated recruiting class that Thad has put together. Shannon Scott (PG), Amir Williams (C), Sam Thompson (SF), and LaQuinton Ross (SF) are all four star players according to ESPN. A three star, Trey McDonald (C) rounds out the class. Although I think McDonald and Thompson will have to wait a year or two for their turn, I think Scott, Williams, and Ross could all contribute. Especially Scott and Williams.
Here's my opinion on next years depth chart to finish off this comment.
Starters:
Aaron Craft (Point Guard)
Jordan Sibert (Shooting Guard)
Deshaun Thomas (Small Forward)
Jared Sullinger (Power Forward)
Amir Williams (Center)
Bench (6th, 7th, 8th players):
Shannon Scott (Point guard)
LaQuinton Ross (Small Forward)
Lenzelle Smith, Jr. (Shooting Guard)
Bench (Bench Warmers):
J.D. Weatherspoon (Small Forward)
Sam Thompson (Small Forward)
Trey McDonald (Center)
Any walk on's
Comments
You forgot Evan Ravenel, the BC transfer. He'll be a 4th year junior next season.
Will be be the new Nicola Kecmen or can he be a regular contributer? His experience, and time already put into the program will certainly give him a probable edge over his seemingly only competition for minutes off the bench in Trey McDonald when it comes to filling in the 4 or 5 spot off the bench.
Class of 2010
We should definitely see a 8 to 9 man rotation next year, especially if Weatherspoon stays eligible.
Wow, this is a roster without Buford and Ravenel listed. Finally Thad will have a full alotment of scholarships being used, no team managers of walk-ons as bodies just so they can practice.
I mentioned that I thought Buford would leave, if you read. And Ravenel I completely forgot about.
October 20th: National Kenneth Guiton Day
I could Sam Thompson battling for that 7th spot and staying on the court for nice stretches. He is very athletic, has a nice smooth, outside stroke and most importantly willing to play defense (when inspired). He also has Weatherspoon type ups so he should be involved in a lot of rebounds and tips. Thompson has the versatility (6'6" n agile) and has the potential to be a very good defender. And with Matta great defense gets you the most PT with a few exceptions.
Buford is coming back !
Starters:
Aaron Craft (PG)
William Buford (G)
Jordan Sibert (G)
Deshaun Thomas (F)
Jared Sullinger (F)