Tigers Training Camp Report
October 18, 2006
Niles recovering
University of Memphis coach John Calipari said Tuesday that freshman forward Pierre Niles was doing well following arthroscopic surgery on his right knee Monday to clean up some cartilage that had been causing soreness.
"It went well," Calipari said. "Everything should be good. How quickly he can come back all depends on his pain tolerance. He's a little bit heavier, I can't imagine it would be earlier than three weeks." Niles, who played at Ridgeway before transferring to a prep school in North Carolina last season, is currently listed on the team's roster at 6-8, 285 pounds.
His goal had been to get down to 275 before the Nov. 16 season opener against Jackson State. Though the surgery could set Niles back a little bit with his weight loss, he had shown good mobility in early drills.
In other injury news, freshman guard Tre'Von Willis suffered a mild concussion toward the end of Monday's practice. He tried to practice Tuesday but only participated in a couple of drills.
Willis' availability will be day-to-day, but team officials anticipate he'll be ready to return by Friday at the latest.
Freshman guard Willie Kemp, who turned an ankle in the final minutes of Monday's practice, returned Tuesday and appeared to be at full speed.
Coach's corner
Calipari used much of Tuesday's practice to install the full-court press, which is something of a departure from the first three days of practice in which offense was the focus.
Coming into the season without last year's top three scorers -- Shawne Williams, Rodney Carney and Darius Washington -- Calipari has talked about the need to force turnovers and create easy offensive opportunities.
"The biggest thing for me is, we really want to be aggressive," Calipari said. "We really want to go after balls. We really want to do some stuff, but we don't want to give up layups. We want to be back and making sure that if someone's scoring, it's a tough shot against a set defense."
Etc.
CSTV will be broadcasting live Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. on the plaza outside the FedExForum in conjunction with Conference USA men's basketball media day. Fans are encouraged to attend the broadcast, on which coaches and players will be interviewed.
-- Dan Wolken, Memphis Commercial Appeal
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Article on Doneal Mack
In freshman Mack, Tigers have a go-to shooter
Gators' loss turns out to be Calipari's gain
By Dan Wolken
October 16, 2006
University of Memphis freshman Doneal Mack stood in the 3-point corner, firing off one jumper after another Sunday during a drill at the Finch Center. He made eight in a row. Then he missed one. Then he made another five straight. Then he missed two. And on it went like this for three minutes, by the end of which Mack had made 52 shots.
And just like that, it was obvious why Mack's surprise arrival in August was one of the most pleasant developments of coach John Calipari's summer. On a Tigers team that doesn't have a proven three-point sharpshooter, Mack is a logical choice to be the outside threat that, as Calipari put it, "can just go make 12 in a row." "That's probably one of the reasons he wanted me here," Mack said. "Somebody to hit open jumpers."
His job sounds simple.
Mack's path to Memphis, however, wasn't simple at all.
A top-50 recruit coming out of Statesville (N.C.) Christian, the 6-5 Mack initially signed with national champion Florida.
But then things got murky.
In July, Florida officials released a statement saying that Mack "did not meet enrollment requirements."
That wasn't entirely true. The Daytona Beach News Journal reported that Mack received a good qualifying score on his ACT test but was asked to take it again. When he scored lower -- but still well above NCAA requirements -- he was released from his scholarship. There were whispers around college basketball that Florida simply used the academic issue to open a scholarship and fill other needs.
Said Mack: "I was qualified for any other school, but I had to cancel out some scores and if I did that, I couldn't get through admissions (at Florida). There were no hard feelings."
So when Mack re-opened his recruitment, Kentucky called. Illinois called. And then Calipari called.
"He was just way different from any other coach I talked to," Mack said. "I was on the phone with him for like two hours. I came down to visit, I liked it and started summer school."
Despite Memphis already possessing a group of talented shooting guards, including Antonio Anderson, Chris Douglas-Roberts and fellow freshman Tre'Von Willis, Mack's late addition -- along with the reinstatement of Jeremy Hunt -- in some ways transformed the roster.
Why? Because, as Calipari said, "We don't have any bad shooters ... but at some point, we've got to have a guy that can make five straight."
Asked who he thought was the best shooter on the team, Douglas-Roberts responded: "In my opinion, Jeremy or Doneal."
Mack also has some other unique attributes: When he shoots, Mack seemingly uses every bit of his 41-inch vertical leap, ensuring he can get off a shot whenever he needs to.
He's also the kind of penetrating guard that makes Calipari's offense go. When he drives, however, Mack's natural tendency is to go left because he's left-handed. In high school, Mack was so much better than his competition most nights that he never needed to do anything else.
At Memphis, Calipari is imploring him to start going to his right most of the time. And once Mack gets the hang of it, he'll be twice as dangerous.
"It's something I have to get used to," Mack said. "I can dribble with my right but I've just got to work on finishing with my right. It's just way different from high school when you've got 6-11 and 6-10 guys in there."
Gators' loss turns out to be Calipari's gain
By Dan Wolken
October 16, 2006
University of Memphis freshman Doneal Mack stood in the 3-point corner, firing off one jumper after another Sunday during a drill at the Finch Center. He made eight in a row. Then he missed one. Then he made another five straight. Then he missed two. And on it went like this for three minutes, by the end of which Mack had made 52 shots.
And just like that, it was obvious why Mack's surprise arrival in August was one of the most pleasant developments of coach John Calipari's summer. On a Tigers team that doesn't have a proven three-point sharpshooter, Mack is a logical choice to be the outside threat that, as Calipari put it, "can just go make 12 in a row." "That's probably one of the reasons he wanted me here," Mack said. "Somebody to hit open jumpers."
His job sounds simple.
Mack's path to Memphis, however, wasn't simple at all.
A top-50 recruit coming out of Statesville (N.C.) Christian, the 6-5 Mack initially signed with national champion Florida.
But then things got murky.
In July, Florida officials released a statement saying that Mack "did not meet enrollment requirements."
That wasn't entirely true. The Daytona Beach News Journal reported that Mack received a good qualifying score on his ACT test but was asked to take it again. When he scored lower -- but still well above NCAA requirements -- he was released from his scholarship. There were whispers around college basketball that Florida simply used the academic issue to open a scholarship and fill other needs.
Said Mack: "I was qualified for any other school, but I had to cancel out some scores and if I did that, I couldn't get through admissions (at Florida). There were no hard feelings."
So when Mack re-opened his recruitment, Kentucky called. Illinois called. And then Calipari called.
"He was just way different from any other coach I talked to," Mack said. "I was on the phone with him for like two hours. I came down to visit, I liked it and started summer school."
Despite Memphis already possessing a group of talented shooting guards, including Antonio Anderson, Chris Douglas-Roberts and fellow freshman Tre'Von Willis, Mack's late addition -- along with the reinstatement of Jeremy Hunt -- in some ways transformed the roster.
Why? Because, as Calipari said, "We don't have any bad shooters ... but at some point, we've got to have a guy that can make five straight."
Asked who he thought was the best shooter on the team, Douglas-Roberts responded: "In my opinion, Jeremy or Doneal."
Mack also has some other unique attributes: When he shoots, Mack seemingly uses every bit of his 41-inch vertical leap, ensuring he can get off a shot whenever he needs to.
He's also the kind of penetrating guard that makes Calipari's offense go. When he drives, however, Mack's natural tendency is to go left because he's left-handed. In high school, Mack was so much better than his competition most nights that he never needed to do anything else.
At Memphis, Calipari is imploring him to start going to his right most of the time. And once Mack gets the hang of it, he'll be twice as dangerous.
"It's something I have to get used to," Mack said. "I can dribble with my right but I've just got to work on finishing with my right. It's just way different from high school when you've got 6-11 and 6-10 guys in there."
CBS Sportsline Summary for Memphis Tigers
CBS Sportsline Summary on the Tigers
Team News Tigers report: Getting inside
Three primary stars from last season's roster left for the NBA.
Tigers report: Notes, quotes STRENGTHS
While the Tigers lost senior F Rodney Carney, freshman F Shawne Williams and sophomore PG Darius Washington to the NBA draft, they return a strong nucleus of players that includes junior G Andre Allen, fellow backcourt mates Chris Douglas-Roberts and Antonio Anderson and big men Joey Dorsey, Robert Dozier and Kareem Cooper. All of those players saw significant playing time last season and understand and accept their roles within the team. The Tigers also add another strong recruiting class, including one possible starter, PG Willie Kemp. The group as a whole is quick and fast, knows how to play defense, run the floor and create pressure on opponents on both ends of the floor.
Tigers report: Strategy and personnel SCOUTING THE NEWCOMERS
The Tigers signed five players during the 2005-06 recruiting period and all five players enrolled in summer school to get an early start on academics and conditioning as they prepare for their freshman season. PG Willie Kemp is expected to make the biggest and most immediate impact as a legitimate contender for a starting role and significant playing time. The Tigers are also looking for immediate reserve help from Gs Doneal Mack and Tre'Von Willis, C Hashim Bailey and F Pierre Niles. The players who best prepare themselves to defend, rebound and fit in to the overall scheme will be the players who see the most playing time.
Team News Tigers report: Getting inside
Three primary stars from last season's roster left for the NBA.
Tigers report: Notes, quotes STRENGTHS
While the Tigers lost senior F Rodney Carney, freshman F Shawne Williams and sophomore PG Darius Washington to the NBA draft, they return a strong nucleus of players that includes junior G Andre Allen, fellow backcourt mates Chris Douglas-Roberts and Antonio Anderson and big men Joey Dorsey, Robert Dozier and Kareem Cooper. All of those players saw significant playing time last season and understand and accept their roles within the team. The Tigers also add another strong recruiting class, including one possible starter, PG Willie Kemp. The group as a whole is quick and fast, knows how to play defense, run the floor and create pressure on opponents on both ends of the floor.
Tigers report: Strategy and personnel SCOUTING THE NEWCOMERS
The Tigers signed five players during the 2005-06 recruiting period and all five players enrolled in summer school to get an early start on academics and conditioning as they prepare for their freshman season. PG Willie Kemp is expected to make the biggest and most immediate impact as a legitimate contender for a starting role and significant playing time. The Tigers are also looking for immediate reserve help from Gs Doneal Mack and Tre'Von Willis, C Hashim Bailey and F Pierre Niles. The players who best prepare themselves to defend, rebound and fit in to the overall scheme will be the players who see the most playing time.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Tiger Camp Report / Recruiting Update
Tiger basketball camp report
October 15, 2006
Injury sidelines Niles Freshman forward Pierre Niles will miss the next three weeks of practice after undergoing an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee scheduled for early this week.
The decision was made to scope the knee after soreness forced Niles to miss practice Saturday. Though Niles participated in Memphis Madness on Friday and looked good in the scrimmage, he had been bothered by soreness for several days. "In a way, (it's good) it happens early," coach John Calipari said. "Second thing is, you know now this isn't a dude that's trying to get out of practice. He was hurt.
"When you're playing this sport, those things happen."
Recruiting update
At least heralded point guard recruit Derrick Rose liked the University of Memphis enough to stick around and watch both practices Saturday.
That, however, is about the extent of the information that has come out of Rose's official visit to campus so far since Rose on Saturday did not want to talk to reporters about his impressions of the Memphis program or whether he's any closer to choosing his college destination.
That's not entirely surprising. Rose, rated the No. 1 point guard in the nation and No. 3 player overall by Rivals.com, hasn't said much publicly throughout the recruiting process.
Though the 6-foot-2 Rose said earlier this summer he was also considering Indiana, Kansas and DePaul, Memphis has been perceived nationally as the leader, an opinion that certainly wasn't discredited when the Chicago native chose to make his official visit for Friday night's Memphis Madness celebration.
Per NCAA rules, members of the Tigers' coaching staff are not allowed to comment on unsigned recruits.
Coach's corner
Everything about freshman Willie Kemp's game is lightning-quick, which ultimately will make him a valuable point guard in the Tigers' up-tempo motion offense.
But Calipari is trying to get Kemp's brain operating at a slower speed.
"This is what's hard about how we play -- your feet have to move really, really fast, and your mind has to move slow," Calipari said. "Normally, when your feet are moving fast, your mind's moving the same way. It's like the great baseball players would see the seams on the baseball. It all slows down. ... Andre (Allen) does a pretty good job of it; he's more of a bulldog kind of player and will bring it right up your throat, which is what we need at times. Willie is a little bit different. He can do that, but what I'm trying to get him to do is be able to play really fast, but don't have your mind moving that fast."
Kemp said he's beginning to get the hang of it.
"There's so many situations that we can run out of these plays, I have to think out there," Kemp said. "I feel I'm getting better day by day."
-- Dan Wolken
October 15, 2006
Injury sidelines Niles Freshman forward Pierre Niles will miss the next three weeks of practice after undergoing an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee scheduled for early this week.
The decision was made to scope the knee after soreness forced Niles to miss practice Saturday. Though Niles participated in Memphis Madness on Friday and looked good in the scrimmage, he had been bothered by soreness for several days. "In a way, (it's good) it happens early," coach John Calipari said. "Second thing is, you know now this isn't a dude that's trying to get out of practice. He was hurt.
"When you're playing this sport, those things happen."
Recruiting update
At least heralded point guard recruit Derrick Rose liked the University of Memphis enough to stick around and watch both practices Saturday.
That, however, is about the extent of the information that has come out of Rose's official visit to campus so far since Rose on Saturday did not want to talk to reporters about his impressions of the Memphis program or whether he's any closer to choosing his college destination.
That's not entirely surprising. Rose, rated the No. 1 point guard in the nation and No. 3 player overall by Rivals.com, hasn't said much publicly throughout the recruiting process.
Though the 6-foot-2 Rose said earlier this summer he was also considering Indiana, Kansas and DePaul, Memphis has been perceived nationally as the leader, an opinion that certainly wasn't discredited when the Chicago native chose to make his official visit for Friday night's Memphis Madness celebration.
Per NCAA rules, members of the Tigers' coaching staff are not allowed to comment on unsigned recruits.
Coach's corner
Everything about freshman Willie Kemp's game is lightning-quick, which ultimately will make him a valuable point guard in the Tigers' up-tempo motion offense.
But Calipari is trying to get Kemp's brain operating at a slower speed.
"This is what's hard about how we play -- your feet have to move really, really fast, and your mind has to move slow," Calipari said. "Normally, when your feet are moving fast, your mind's moving the same way. It's like the great baseball players would see the seams on the baseball. It all slows down. ... Andre (Allen) does a pretty good job of it; he's more of a bulldog kind of player and will bring it right up your throat, which is what we need at times. Willie is a little bit different. He can do that, but what I'm trying to get him to do is be able to play really fast, but don't have your mind moving that fast."
Kemp said he's beginning to get the hang of it.
"There's so many situations that we can run out of these plays, I have to think out there," Kemp said. "I feel I'm getting better day by day."
-- Dan Wolken
Joey Dorsey Arrested for Driving on a Suspended License
Tigers' Dorsey arrested after traffic violation
By Dan Wolken
October 15, 2006
Joey Dorsey, a junior forward on the University of Memphis basketball team, was arrested early Saturday morning after a police officer pulled him over for running a red light and discovered he was driving on a suspended license. Bob Winn, the UofM's associate athletic director for external affairs, said Saturday night Dorsey was only arrested because his license "fell into a category of either revoked or suspended" and that he had already been issued a warning for a previous traffic violation. Dorsey was released on bond and was at practice Saturday morning. Winn said Dorsey wouldn't face any sanctions from the university. "There was no speeding, reckless driving or any other charges other than the fact he disregarded a red light," Winn said. "It's a traffic violation, and that's the extent of it. He'll have to go to court and handle his court case and any fines. It is a traffic violation. That doesn't fall into any of the categories involving suspensions or anything. He got a traffic ticket. He'll have to take care of his own business. He'll have to pay it."
By Dan Wolken
October 15, 2006
Joey Dorsey, a junior forward on the University of Memphis basketball team, was arrested early Saturday morning after a police officer pulled him over for running a red light and discovered he was driving on a suspended license. Bob Winn, the UofM's associate athletic director for external affairs, said Saturday night Dorsey was only arrested because his license "fell into a category of either revoked or suspended" and that he had already been issued a warning for a previous traffic violation. Dorsey was released on bond and was at practice Saturday morning. Winn said Dorsey wouldn't face any sanctions from the university. "There was no speeding, reckless driving or any other charges other than the fact he disregarded a red light," Winn said. "It's a traffic violation, and that's the extent of it. He'll have to go to court and handle his court case and any fines. It is a traffic violation. That doesn't fall into any of the categories involving suspensions or anything. He got a traffic ticket. He'll have to take care of his own business. He'll have to pay it."
Article on Jeremy Hunt
Tigers' tough guy
By Dan Wolken, Memphis Commercial Appeal
October 15, 2006
Jeremy Hunt emerged from the concourse of FedExForum on Friday night, and on his walk from the top of the lower bowl to the floor, the University of Memphis senior guard was afraid he might injure himself. "My jaw was hurting," Hunt said, "because I was smiling so much."
Hunt's season of redemption began at Memphis Madness on Friday when the estimated crowd of 10,000 gave him arguably the loudest ovation of any Tigers player. There was no guarantee that would happen, even in Hunt's own mind.
Last October, Hunt was "permanently dismissed" from the basketball program after two off-court incidents in a nine-month span. In August, however, the university reinstated Hunt, and even Hunt said he wasn't sure what kind of reception he'd get from the Tigers' fan base.
As it turns out, the reception couldn't have been kinder.
"After all that I went through, they still stuck behind me 100 percent," Hunt said. "It meant a lot to me. I couldn't do nothing but smile."
It has been a long road back for Hunt, a road, he said, that none of his teammates should want to go down.
In 2004, Hunt was charged with misdemeanor assault after an incident with his ex-girlfriend, former Lady Tiger basketball player Tamika Rogers. That charge is on track to be dismissed next year if he meets the requirements of a pretrial diversion program.
Nine months after that incident, Hunt was involved in a physical altercation on Beale Street and dismissed from the program last Oct. 4.
But Hunt, who averaged 9.5 points per game during his first three years at Memphis, stayed close to the team, graduated, showed contrition and maturity, and made his case for reinstatement this past summer.
Though Memphis has plenty of talent, especially at the guard positions, Tigers coach John Calipari said having a player with Hunt's toughness and experience and willingness to play any role will be important on a team relying heavily on freshmen and sophomores.
"What I'm happy about is, a kid has a chance to play and prove himself, to redeem himself," Calipari said. "Our president and athletic director felt he should have that opportunity, which I feel good about.
"He's been great. He knows. He's humbled. He talks to the guys and is trying to show leadership."
Hunt, a 23-year old playing a team of mostly 19- and 20-year olds, said part of his role is offering guidance.
"I learned from my mistakes, and if I see one of my teammates looking like they're about to do something, I'm going to step in and be like, 'No, you don't want to do that because you don't want to go down the same road.' We haven't had that problem, but I'm just here to tell them. They can use me as an example."
Hunt could also be an important contributor on the court. Though there's a logjam at shooting guard with Chris Douglas-Roberts, Antonio Anderson and talented newcomers like Tre'Von Willis and Doneal Mack, Calipari said a player with Hunt's "senior toughness" would have come in handy last year -- especially in the Tigers' season-ending loss to UCLA in the Elite Eight.
"We didn't have a guy that could just say, that's it, I've had enough," Calipari said. "The young kids weren't ready to do that, Rodney (Carney) isn't that kind of player, Darius (Washington) had a guy that was guarding him pretty darn good and he couldn't do it. Joey (Dorsey), he just isn't skilled to do that. We needed just a tough guy."
A tough guy who again has reason to smile.
-- Dan Wolken: 901-529-2365
By Dan Wolken, Memphis Commercial Appeal
October 15, 2006
Jeremy Hunt emerged from the concourse of FedExForum on Friday night, and on his walk from the top of the lower bowl to the floor, the University of Memphis senior guard was afraid he might injure himself. "My jaw was hurting," Hunt said, "because I was smiling so much."
Hunt's season of redemption began at Memphis Madness on Friday when the estimated crowd of 10,000 gave him arguably the loudest ovation of any Tigers player. There was no guarantee that would happen, even in Hunt's own mind.
Last October, Hunt was "permanently dismissed" from the basketball program after two off-court incidents in a nine-month span. In August, however, the university reinstated Hunt, and even Hunt said he wasn't sure what kind of reception he'd get from the Tigers' fan base.
As it turns out, the reception couldn't have been kinder.
"After all that I went through, they still stuck behind me 100 percent," Hunt said. "It meant a lot to me. I couldn't do nothing but smile."
It has been a long road back for Hunt, a road, he said, that none of his teammates should want to go down.
In 2004, Hunt was charged with misdemeanor assault after an incident with his ex-girlfriend, former Lady Tiger basketball player Tamika Rogers. That charge is on track to be dismissed next year if he meets the requirements of a pretrial diversion program.
Nine months after that incident, Hunt was involved in a physical altercation on Beale Street and dismissed from the program last Oct. 4.
But Hunt, who averaged 9.5 points per game during his first three years at Memphis, stayed close to the team, graduated, showed contrition and maturity, and made his case for reinstatement this past summer.
Though Memphis has plenty of talent, especially at the guard positions, Tigers coach John Calipari said having a player with Hunt's toughness and experience and willingness to play any role will be important on a team relying heavily on freshmen and sophomores.
"What I'm happy about is, a kid has a chance to play and prove himself, to redeem himself," Calipari said. "Our president and athletic director felt he should have that opportunity, which I feel good about.
"He's been great. He knows. He's humbled. He talks to the guys and is trying to show leadership."
Hunt, a 23-year old playing a team of mostly 19- and 20-year olds, said part of his role is offering guidance.
"I learned from my mistakes, and if I see one of my teammates looking like they're about to do something, I'm going to step in and be like, 'No, you don't want to do that because you don't want to go down the same road.' We haven't had that problem, but I'm just here to tell them. They can use me as an example."
Hunt could also be an important contributor on the court. Though there's a logjam at shooting guard with Chris Douglas-Roberts, Antonio Anderson and talented newcomers like Tre'Von Willis and Doneal Mack, Calipari said a player with Hunt's "senior toughness" would have come in handy last year -- especially in the Tigers' season-ending loss to UCLA in the Elite Eight.
"We didn't have a guy that could just say, that's it, I've had enough," Calipari said. "The young kids weren't ready to do that, Rodney (Carney) isn't that kind of player, Darius (Washington) had a guy that was guarding him pretty darn good and he couldn't do it. Joey (Dorsey), he just isn't skilled to do that. We needed just a tough guy."
A tough guy who again has reason to smile.
-- Dan Wolken: 901-529-2365
Anyone Attending Memphis Madness
Unfortunately, I was unable to attend Memphis Madness on Friday night as I was out of town. I'd welcome anyone's comments who might have attended.
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Cal's Mission for Pre-Season: Find Replacement Talent
Calipari's mission for preseason drills: Find replacement talent
By Dan Wolken, Memphis Commercial Appeal
October 14, 2006
This is what John Calipari hears: That the University of Memphis, despite losing Shawne Williams, Rodney Carney and Darius Washington, could actually be better this season than last. But this is what Calipari sees: A program coming off an Elite Eight appearance that must replace 56 percent of its scoring, doesn't have a proven go-to star and will rely heavily on freshmen and sophomores.
"People are trying to tell me we're better than a year ago," the seventh-year Tigers coach said. "You've got to be drug tested. We were really good. ... We have a pretty deep team, a young team again and it's one of those, 'Boy, I hope we're good.' It's one of those kinds of teams." The journey from hope to reality officially began at FedExForum on Friday night at Memphis Madness, which was more of a showcase than a legitimate practice session.
The real work will begin at the Finch Center today and continue in earnest leading up to the Tigers' first exhibition game Nov. 2 against LeMoyne-Owen. In that time, the Tigers will have to deal with as many unknowns as knowns on a roster that appears deep and talented but has just one senior and two juniors.
"We lost (56) percent of our offense, and people are counting us out," junior guard Andre Allen said. "But they don't know what kind of team we've got. We've got a great team."
Fans got their first look at exactly what Memphis has during Friday's events, which included player introductions, a dunk contest (won by junior forward Joey Dorsey), and a short scrimmage.
In some ways, they were asking the same questions that Calipari is asking: Who's going to make the clutch plays late in games the way Washington, Williams and Carney did?
"Those three guys could get their own shot at any time and change the complexion of a game," Calipari said. "They took some bad shots, but man did they make big shots. They may have taken bad shots, but they made half of them. We're going to miss those.
"We may have to play a little different, may have to press a little more, may have to take one more drive or two more drives before we shoot the ball. We may have to be the best offensive rebounding team in the country. There's things we may have to do to be as good as we were last year, and it's hard. You just don't win 30 games many times."
Though the Tigers acknowledge they aren't the same team, they say they have at least carried over the chemistry from last season. Sophomore guard Antonio Anderson said the team has spent so much time together off the court -- eating lunch on campus together, for instance -- that other students have asked: What's up with the basketball team?
"But there's nothing wrong with that," Anderson said. "We're trying to win a championship so that's all it is."
By Dan Wolken, Memphis Commercial Appeal
October 14, 2006
This is what John Calipari hears: That the University of Memphis, despite losing Shawne Williams, Rodney Carney and Darius Washington, could actually be better this season than last. But this is what Calipari sees: A program coming off an Elite Eight appearance that must replace 56 percent of its scoring, doesn't have a proven go-to star and will rely heavily on freshmen and sophomores.
"People are trying to tell me we're better than a year ago," the seventh-year Tigers coach said. "You've got to be drug tested. We were really good. ... We have a pretty deep team, a young team again and it's one of those, 'Boy, I hope we're good.' It's one of those kinds of teams." The journey from hope to reality officially began at FedExForum on Friday night at Memphis Madness, which was more of a showcase than a legitimate practice session.
The real work will begin at the Finch Center today and continue in earnest leading up to the Tigers' first exhibition game Nov. 2 against LeMoyne-Owen. In that time, the Tigers will have to deal with as many unknowns as knowns on a roster that appears deep and talented but has just one senior and two juniors.
"We lost (56) percent of our offense, and people are counting us out," junior guard Andre Allen said. "But they don't know what kind of team we've got. We've got a great team."
Fans got their first look at exactly what Memphis has during Friday's events, which included player introductions, a dunk contest (won by junior forward Joey Dorsey), and a short scrimmage.
In some ways, they were asking the same questions that Calipari is asking: Who's going to make the clutch plays late in games the way Washington, Williams and Carney did?
"Those three guys could get their own shot at any time and change the complexion of a game," Calipari said. "They took some bad shots, but man did they make big shots. They may have taken bad shots, but they made half of them. We're going to miss those.
"We may have to play a little different, may have to press a little more, may have to take one more drive or two more drives before we shoot the ball. We may have to be the best offensive rebounding team in the country. There's things we may have to do to be as good as we were last year, and it's hard. You just don't win 30 games many times."
Though the Tigers acknowledge they aren't the same team, they say they have at least carried over the chemistry from last season. Sophomore guard Antonio Anderson said the team has spent so much time together off the court -- eating lunch on campus together, for instance -- that other students have asked: What's up with the basketball team?
"But there's nothing wrong with that," Anderson said. "We're trying to win a championship so that's all it is."
Notes From Friday's Memphis Madness; Top Recruit Derrick Rose and NBA's Larry Brown in Attendance
Top recruit Derrick Rose, a point guard rated the No. 3 player in the country by Rivals, attended Friday's Memphis Madness. He is taking his official visit to Memphis this weekend. ... After player introductions, a highlight video from last season played on the scoreboard. The soundtrack? "One Shining Moment," the song played annually at the conclusion of the Final Four. ... Players helped raise the 2006 NCAA Elite Eight banner to the rafters Friday, but it didn't stay there long. It was taken down for the Grizzlies' game tonight. ... Calipari introduced friend and longtime NBA coach Larry Brown, who was sitting courtside. Brown received a standing ovation.
Memphis Madness Review
Dorsey does bang-up job in dunk contest
By Dan Wolken
October 14, 2006
In the least surprising development of Memphis Madness, junior Joey Dorsey won the dunk contest. But afterward, Dorsey said he was actually hoping Chris Douglas-Roberts or freshman Doneal Mack would win. "I wanted to see them go at it," Dorsey said. "I think I did all right tonight."
"This was really just to give a chance for people in Memphis to see us in action and see the pieces we've got in our puzzle now. I think we're going to be a really good team this year."
Showing up
There wasn't the crowd of 18,000 coach John Calipari was hoping for, but the lower bowl and club level of FedExForum were completely full. There were even a few people sitting in the upper deck.
"I can't believe it," Dorsey said. "Coach said there were 10,000 people out to see us, and that was pretty good."
Line of the night
There wasn't exactly much defense being played Friday during the Tigers' 20-minute scrimmage.
It was so lax that, at one point, Calipari grabbed the public address microphone and said: "I can promise you, we'll be playing more defense when the stuff is real."
By Dan Wolken
October 14, 2006
In the least surprising development of Memphis Madness, junior Joey Dorsey won the dunk contest. But afterward, Dorsey said he was actually hoping Chris Douglas-Roberts or freshman Doneal Mack would win. "I wanted to see them go at it," Dorsey said. "I think I did all right tonight."
"This was really just to give a chance for people in Memphis to see us in action and see the pieces we've got in our puzzle now. I think we're going to be a really good team this year."
Showing up
There wasn't the crowd of 18,000 coach John Calipari was hoping for, but the lower bowl and club level of FedExForum were completely full. There were even a few people sitting in the upper deck.
"I can't believe it," Dorsey said. "Coach said there were 10,000 people out to see us, and that was pretty good."
Line of the night
There wasn't exactly much defense being played Friday during the Tigers' 20-minute scrimmage.
It was so lax that, at one point, Calipari grabbed the public address microphone and said: "I can promise you, we'll be playing more defense when the stuff is real."
Jared Sandridge's Journal, 1st Entry
Jared's Journal/2006-07 First Entry
Oct. 12, 2006
Hello Tiger Fans:
It has been a while since I have written and I wanted to update everyone on how the summer and pre-season workouts have been going and to get the season tipped off right.
First and foremost, everyone has been working hard. We have had guys lose weight that have needed to lose weight (up to as much as 30-40 pounds), and we have had guys put on weight that have needed to put on weight. The running and conditioning went really well, even though no one likes to run a lot. Some of the big men learned that they can keep up with the guards (during the runs) even though they were unsure if they could even finish them. Overall, the workouts have been great, and the team has gotten off on the right foot heading into practice.
Just as a reminder for everyone. Memphis Madness is on Friday night and autographs will be signed from 7:30-8:30 followed by the player introductions and scrimmage starting at 9. I hope everyone is looking forward to the upcoming season as much as we are and we hope you all come out and show your support for us. It will be an exciting season, so let's get this started out right on Friday night.
And remember to vote for me in the dunk contest!! (just kidding)
GO TIGERS GO,
Jared
Oct. 12, 2006
Hello Tiger Fans:
It has been a while since I have written and I wanted to update everyone on how the summer and pre-season workouts have been going and to get the season tipped off right.
First and foremost, everyone has been working hard. We have had guys lose weight that have needed to lose weight (up to as much as 30-40 pounds), and we have had guys put on weight that have needed to put on weight. The running and conditioning went really well, even though no one likes to run a lot. Some of the big men learned that they can keep up with the guards (during the runs) even though they were unsure if they could even finish them. Overall, the workouts have been great, and the team has gotten off on the right foot heading into practice.
Just as a reminder for everyone. Memphis Madness is on Friday night and autographs will be signed from 7:30-8:30 followed by the player introductions and scrimmage starting at 9. I hope everyone is looking forward to the upcoming season as much as we are and we hope you all come out and show your support for us. It will be an exciting season, so let's get this started out right on Friday night.
And remember to vote for me in the dunk contest!! (just kidding)
GO TIGERS GO,
Jared
Friday, October 13, 2006
Memphis Madness Schedule - Tonight
Memphis Madness
When, where: Tonight at FedExForum, doors open at 7:30 p.m.
Admission: Free; fans are encouraged to bring canned food donations
Memphis madness schedule
6:30 p.m.: Cheerleaders and band on plaza
7:30 p.m.: Doors open/Men's and women's autograph session
8:45 p.m.: Lady Tiger introductions
9 p.m.: Tiger introductions
9:17 p.m.: Special video/presentation
9:25 p.m.: Half-court shot/Book Scholarship Give-A-Way
9:35 p.m.: Celebrity-judged dunk contest
9:45 p.m.: Team warmups
9:50 p.m.: Tiger scrimmage starts
10:15 p.m.: First 200 kids to Memphis Madness come to court to shoot free throws
When, where: Tonight at FedExForum, doors open at 7:30 p.m.
Admission: Free; fans are encouraged to bring canned food donations
Memphis madness schedule
6:30 p.m.: Cheerleaders and band on plaza
7:30 p.m.: Doors open/Men's and women's autograph session
8:45 p.m.: Lady Tiger introductions
9 p.m.: Tiger introductions
9:17 p.m.: Special video/presentation
9:25 p.m.: Half-court shot/Book Scholarship Give-A-Way
9:35 p.m.: Celebrity-judged dunk contest
9:45 p.m.: Team warmups
9:50 p.m.: Tiger scrimmage starts
10:15 p.m.: First 200 kids to Memphis Madness come to court to shoot free throws
500 to 600 Fans Attended Open Practice on Thursday
An estimated 500-600 fans showed up at the Finch Center on Thursday to watch the open practice, which was the last of five two-hour sessions allowed by NCAA rules before tonight's official start of practice. ... Among those at the practice was longtime NBA coach Larry Brown, who doesn't currently have a job. "We're friends, so he's getting to go to practices and see teams, and it's good for him," Calipari said.
Memphis Has a Good Problem - Two Talented Point Guards
U of M enters preseason with talented point guards
By Dan Wolken, Memphis Commercial Appeal
October 13, 2006
Before Thursday's practice at the Finch Center, a group of reporters asked University of Memphis freshman Willie Kemp who should be the Tigers' starting point guard, and Kemp said it didn't matter. Then, the same group asked the same question of junior Andre Allen, and Allen said it didn't matter.
After the two-hour practice was over, Allen explained the lack of campaigning in what has been perceived as a battle between the two: With Allen and Kemp, the Tigers appear to have different point guards for different situations. "With my game, it's getting up and down the court," Allen said. "But if we have to go to a set offense, he's a better point guard than me. In certain situations we'll be in the game at different times. Maybe we'll be in at the same time."
The reality, heading into the official start of preseason practice tonight at FedExForum, is that Allen is clearly the more polished of the two based on his showing in early season workouts and his breakout performance in last year's NCAA Tournament.
After backing up the now-departed Darius Washington last season, Allen played his best basketball in the postseason and finished with 26 assists, 10 steals and just seven turnovers in seven games spanning the Conference USA and NCAA tournaments.
But Kemp, the Bolivar Central product who chose Memphis last year after a nasty recruiting battle with Tennessee, comes with impressive credentials. Rivals scouting service rated him the 53rd-best player in the country, and Scout.com said he was "one of the biggest winners in the class of 2006."
Tigers coach John Calipari, however, said Kemp's high school resume didn't guarantee he would be first in line for point guard minutes.
"Andre is probably more experienced and more seasoned right now, but Willie's really good," Calipari said. "I'll start young guys. I'll start whoever deserves to start, but I don't really care who starts. It's who finishes.
"Willie has to be aggressive with the ball. He's got to look to score points. He can't look to just be a passer, and he's getting better."
Kemp admitted this week he's still adjusting, and it showed a few times on the court Thursday. At one point, it appeared Kemp had injured himself when he drove to the lane slightly out of control and ran into the stanchion under the backboard.
But there were also moments when Kemp looked brilliant, threading passes down the middle of the court to Joey Dorsey and Robert Dozier breaking to the rim for easy baskets.
"I'm still learning," Kemp said. "Andre's a great player, and no matter who starts, it doesn't matter. If it's him starting and me coming off the bench, I'll do that to help my team win. I know Andre will do the same thing. It's not all about starting."
Perhaps the biggest difference between Kemp and Allen right now is Allen's ability to finish off dribble penetration, a testament both to his experience and his 205 pounds of bulk on a 5-10 frame.
But Allen, a Booker T. Washington product, said Kemp's game already stacks up well.
"Willie's a real good player," Allen said. "He's got to get stronger and learn to play every play. He's got to go hard. There's no letting up on a play -- you can't do that at Division 1."
So is he ready?
"Of course he's ready," Allen said. "He's playing against me all summer. He has no choice but to be ready."
-- Dan Wolken: 901-529-2365
By Dan Wolken, Memphis Commercial Appeal
October 13, 2006
Before Thursday's practice at the Finch Center, a group of reporters asked University of Memphis freshman Willie Kemp who should be the Tigers' starting point guard, and Kemp said it didn't matter. Then, the same group asked the same question of junior Andre Allen, and Allen said it didn't matter.
After the two-hour practice was over, Allen explained the lack of campaigning in what has been perceived as a battle between the two: With Allen and Kemp, the Tigers appear to have different point guards for different situations. "With my game, it's getting up and down the court," Allen said. "But if we have to go to a set offense, he's a better point guard than me. In certain situations we'll be in the game at different times. Maybe we'll be in at the same time."
The reality, heading into the official start of preseason practice tonight at FedExForum, is that Allen is clearly the more polished of the two based on his showing in early season workouts and his breakout performance in last year's NCAA Tournament.
After backing up the now-departed Darius Washington last season, Allen played his best basketball in the postseason and finished with 26 assists, 10 steals and just seven turnovers in seven games spanning the Conference USA and NCAA tournaments.
But Kemp, the Bolivar Central product who chose Memphis last year after a nasty recruiting battle with Tennessee, comes with impressive credentials. Rivals scouting service rated him the 53rd-best player in the country, and Scout.com said he was "one of the biggest winners in the class of 2006."
Tigers coach John Calipari, however, said Kemp's high school resume didn't guarantee he would be first in line for point guard minutes.
"Andre is probably more experienced and more seasoned right now, but Willie's really good," Calipari said. "I'll start young guys. I'll start whoever deserves to start, but I don't really care who starts. It's who finishes.
"Willie has to be aggressive with the ball. He's got to look to score points. He can't look to just be a passer, and he's getting better."
Kemp admitted this week he's still adjusting, and it showed a few times on the court Thursday. At one point, it appeared Kemp had injured himself when he drove to the lane slightly out of control and ran into the stanchion under the backboard.
But there were also moments when Kemp looked brilliant, threading passes down the middle of the court to Joey Dorsey and Robert Dozier breaking to the rim for easy baskets.
"I'm still learning," Kemp said. "Andre's a great player, and no matter who starts, it doesn't matter. If it's him starting and me coming off the bench, I'll do that to help my team win. I know Andre will do the same thing. It's not all about starting."
Perhaps the biggest difference between Kemp and Allen right now is Allen's ability to finish off dribble penetration, a testament both to his experience and his 205 pounds of bulk on a 5-10 frame.
But Allen, a Booker T. Washington product, said Kemp's game already stacks up well.
"Willie's a real good player," Allen said. "He's got to get stronger and learn to play every play. He's got to go hard. There's no letting up on a play -- you can't do that at Division 1."
So is he ready?
"Of course he's ready," Allen said. "He's playing against me all summer. He has no choice but to be ready."
-- Dan Wolken: 901-529-2365
Cal Plans to Share the Wealth, May Go 12 Deep
Calipari plans to share the wealth
By Dan Wolken, Memphis Commercial Appeal
October 12, 2006
He had two forwards who would leave the University of Memphis and become the 16th and 17th picks in the NBA Draft. He had a point guard with his own Web site. And he had a freshman guard who started 25 games and made Conference USA's all-rookie team. So it was both a validation of coach John Calipari's offensive system and a testament to the Tigers' depth last season that none of those players led Memphis in minutes played. Rather, it was then-freshman Antonio Anderson who edged Rodney Carney -- 1,030 minutes to 1,027 -- despite starting just more than half the games.
This season, it's possible nobody will reach Anderson's freshman average of 27.8 minutes per game. That's because, as the Tigers gear up for the official start of practice Friday at Memphis Madness, it appears that as many as 12 players could conceivably lay claim to significant playing time. "It's just like last year's team," sophomore guard Chris Douglas-Roberts said. "I ain't gonna say we're gonna be better this early, but we've got the potential to be better than last year because everybody can play. About twelve guys can come in and play big minutes."
While that kind of logjam could potentially be a recipe for discontent and jealousy, it wasn't last season.
Part of the reason was the Tigers' 33-4 record. But just as significant was Calipari installing a new up-tempo offensive system that requires so much energy, being on the floor for more minutes per game than Anderson or Carney were last season would be nearly impossible.
"If, say, two or three of my best players can play 30 minutes or more at the pace we play, they'll play that," Calipari said. "I just haven't found anybody that can.
"The NBA is not looking at rebounding, scoring. They're looking at that per minute. So they looked at Shawne Williams' 23 minutes a game ... but what he did in those 23 minutes got him drafted 17th after one season. Our guys now understand and trust the fact, the NBA isn't saying, 'OK, who's got the most minutes?' They don't care who's got minutes. They want to know if you can play. And the pace and the level of our game and the way we're playing and who we play against kind of, it shakes it out."
Though Calipari said he doesn't think this team on the surface will be as talented or as deep as last year -- "We lost four of our top 10 guys," Calipari said -- Memphis enters this season seemingly with a lot of interchangeable parts.
In addition to the six returning players who ate up significant minutes last year, there are five newcomers who could play their way into the mix. Plus, senior Jeremy Hunt will factor in after returning from last season's suspension.
"It's real competitive," Anderson said. "It's always going to be competitive when you've got guys your size who can do the same thing you can do.
"The funny thing is, none of us was even mad (last year) we didn't start. None of us was selfish. That's what made things better. It was just like that. Hopefully, with these guys coming in, coach will get that same feeling he had last year with us, knowing he won't lose the beat if he subs somebody in or doesn't start somebody. Hopefully we can get that same thing going."
By Dan Wolken, Memphis Commercial Appeal
October 12, 2006
He had two forwards who would leave the University of Memphis and become the 16th and 17th picks in the NBA Draft. He had a point guard with his own Web site. And he had a freshman guard who started 25 games and made Conference USA's all-rookie team. So it was both a validation of coach John Calipari's offensive system and a testament to the Tigers' depth last season that none of those players led Memphis in minutes played. Rather, it was then-freshman Antonio Anderson who edged Rodney Carney -- 1,030 minutes to 1,027 -- despite starting just more than half the games.
This season, it's possible nobody will reach Anderson's freshman average of 27.8 minutes per game. That's because, as the Tigers gear up for the official start of practice Friday at Memphis Madness, it appears that as many as 12 players could conceivably lay claim to significant playing time. "It's just like last year's team," sophomore guard Chris Douglas-Roberts said. "I ain't gonna say we're gonna be better this early, but we've got the potential to be better than last year because everybody can play. About twelve guys can come in and play big minutes."
While that kind of logjam could potentially be a recipe for discontent and jealousy, it wasn't last season.
Part of the reason was the Tigers' 33-4 record. But just as significant was Calipari installing a new up-tempo offensive system that requires so much energy, being on the floor for more minutes per game than Anderson or Carney were last season would be nearly impossible.
"If, say, two or three of my best players can play 30 minutes or more at the pace we play, they'll play that," Calipari said. "I just haven't found anybody that can.
"The NBA is not looking at rebounding, scoring. They're looking at that per minute. So they looked at Shawne Williams' 23 minutes a game ... but what he did in those 23 minutes got him drafted 17th after one season. Our guys now understand and trust the fact, the NBA isn't saying, 'OK, who's got the most minutes?' They don't care who's got minutes. They want to know if you can play. And the pace and the level of our game and the way we're playing and who we play against kind of, it shakes it out."
Though Calipari said he doesn't think this team on the surface will be as talented or as deep as last year -- "We lost four of our top 10 guys," Calipari said -- Memphis enters this season seemingly with a lot of interchangeable parts.
In addition to the six returning players who ate up significant minutes last year, there are five newcomers who could play their way into the mix. Plus, senior Jeremy Hunt will factor in after returning from last season's suspension.
"It's real competitive," Anderson said. "It's always going to be competitive when you've got guys your size who can do the same thing you can do.
"The funny thing is, none of us was even mad (last year) we didn't start. None of us was selfish. That's what made things better. It was just like that. Hopefully, with these guys coming in, coach will get that same feeling he had last year with us, knowing he won't lose the beat if he subs somebody in or doesn't start somebody. Hopefully we can get that same thing going."
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Seven Former Tigers on Current Pre-Season NBA Rosters
Earl Barron, Miami Heat
Rodney Carney, Philadelphia 76ers
Jimmie Hunter, Indiana Pacers
Dajuan Wagner, Golden State Warriors
Darius Washington, Jr., Dallas Mavericks
Shawne Williams, Indiana Pacers
Lorenzen Wright, Atlanta Hawks
Rodney Carney, Philadelphia 76ers
Jimmie Hunter, Indiana Pacers
Dajuan Wagner, Golden State Warriors
Darius Washington, Jr., Dallas Mavericks
Shawne Williams, Indiana Pacers
Lorenzen Wright, Atlanta Hawks
Team Practice Open to Public Today, Memphis Madness Starts at FedEx Forum Friday Night
U of M Open Basketball Practice
Thursday, 2:30 p.m., Finch Center, University of Memphis campus.
Memphis Madness
What: The tip-off celebration for the 2006-07 Tiger basketball season
Where: FedExForum
When: Friday, doors open at 7:30 p.m.; autograph session from 7:30-8:30; scrimmage and dunk contest, 9-10 p.m.
Admission: Free; fans are encouraged to bring canned food donations.
Thursday, 2:30 p.m., Finch Center, University of Memphis campus.
Memphis Madness
What: The tip-off celebration for the 2006-07 Tiger basketball season
Where: FedExForum
When: Friday, doors open at 7:30 p.m.; autograph session from 7:30-8:30; scrimmage and dunk contest, 9-10 p.m.
Admission: Free; fans are encouraged to bring canned food donations.
Tiger Recruits Reportedly to Attend Memphis Madness Friday Night
Calipari's Recruits to Watch FedEx Forum Fest
October 11, 2006
John Calipari isn't concerned about how his University of Memphis basketball team looks Friday night at Memphis Madness, the season's first official basketball practice. But Calipari is worried about how the city of Memphis looks. How the program looks. How FedExForum looks.
Specifically, how all those things look to the handful of top-level recruits Memphis will be hosting this weekend, including highly rated Chicago point guard Derrick Rose. Though NCAA rules prohibit Calipari from commenting on unsigned recruits, a source with knowledge of the situation told The Commercial Appeal that Rose, the No. 3-ranked high school senior in the country by Rivals scouting service, is scheduled to attend Memphis Madness.
Also expected to attend are St. George's junior Elliot Williams, a 6-4 guard ranked by Rivals as the No. 63 player nationally in the class of 2008 and a slew of other local players Memphis is recruiting for 2008 and 2009.
According to Rivals.com, Xavier Henry, a 6-6 guard from Oklahoma City ranked No. 9 among sophomores, will also be at the event.
In other words, there's more at stake Friday than one practice out of many before the Tigers' Nov. 2 exhibition game against LeMoyne-Owen.
"Our city, everybody talks about this being a college basketball town," Calipari said. "Well, in Lexington it's sold out. At Connecticut it's sold out. You talk about Arizona, there's 19,000 there. I believe this is a college town, but on events like this when you're holding it at 7:30 (p.m.), you need to have people swamping the place, especially when we all bring in recruits for this.
"Whether it's seniors, juniors or sophomores, we're going to have probably seven or eight kids here that are the best in their class."
Though Calipari said it was "a little unrealistic" to fill up FedExForum, he believes it's a worthy goal -- especially when admission is free and the festivities will begin at 7:30 p.m., unlike years past in which practice wasn't allowed to begin until midnight.
Having a big turnout would also, in Calipari's estimation, help recruiting.
"One of the kids coming in, somebody said it's (between) Kansas, North Carolina and us," Calipari said. "That's where we should be. Now, when they walk into their buildings for these kinds of things, what does it look like? What does it look like in our building?"
The atmosphere Friday should be festive, with an autograph session and dunk contest that will be judged by three celebrities with Memphis ties: Craig Brewer, director of "Hustle & Flow," wrestling legend Jerry Lawler and Grizzlies forward Mike Miller.
A more serious practice will take place Thursday beginning at 2:30 p.m. at Finch Center, and it's open to the public.
The NCAA allows coaches to work with their teams for 10 hours before the official start of practice, which Calipari has broken up into five two-hour sessions.
The last of those sessions will be Thursday.
Contact Dan Wolken, Memphis Commercial Appeal at 901-529-2365
October 11, 2006
John Calipari isn't concerned about how his University of Memphis basketball team looks Friday night at Memphis Madness, the season's first official basketball practice. But Calipari is worried about how the city of Memphis looks. How the program looks. How FedExForum looks.
Specifically, how all those things look to the handful of top-level recruits Memphis will be hosting this weekend, including highly rated Chicago point guard Derrick Rose. Though NCAA rules prohibit Calipari from commenting on unsigned recruits, a source with knowledge of the situation told The Commercial Appeal that Rose, the No. 3-ranked high school senior in the country by Rivals scouting service, is scheduled to attend Memphis Madness.
Also expected to attend are St. George's junior Elliot Williams, a 6-4 guard ranked by Rivals as the No. 63 player nationally in the class of 2008 and a slew of other local players Memphis is recruiting for 2008 and 2009.
According to Rivals.com, Xavier Henry, a 6-6 guard from Oklahoma City ranked No. 9 among sophomores, will also be at the event.
In other words, there's more at stake Friday than one practice out of many before the Tigers' Nov. 2 exhibition game against LeMoyne-Owen.
"Our city, everybody talks about this being a college basketball town," Calipari said. "Well, in Lexington it's sold out. At Connecticut it's sold out. You talk about Arizona, there's 19,000 there. I believe this is a college town, but on events like this when you're holding it at 7:30 (p.m.), you need to have people swamping the place, especially when we all bring in recruits for this.
"Whether it's seniors, juniors or sophomores, we're going to have probably seven or eight kids here that are the best in their class."
Though Calipari said it was "a little unrealistic" to fill up FedExForum, he believes it's a worthy goal -- especially when admission is free and the festivities will begin at 7:30 p.m., unlike years past in which practice wasn't allowed to begin until midnight.
Having a big turnout would also, in Calipari's estimation, help recruiting.
"One of the kids coming in, somebody said it's (between) Kansas, North Carolina and us," Calipari said. "That's where we should be. Now, when they walk into their buildings for these kinds of things, what does it look like? What does it look like in our building?"
The atmosphere Friday should be festive, with an autograph session and dunk contest that will be judged by three celebrities with Memphis ties: Craig Brewer, director of "Hustle & Flow," wrestling legend Jerry Lawler and Grizzlies forward Mike Miller.
A more serious practice will take place Thursday beginning at 2:30 p.m. at Finch Center, and it's open to the public.
The NCAA allows coaches to work with their teams for 10 hours before the official start of practice, which Calipari has broken up into five two-hour sessions.
The last of those sessions will be Thursday.
Contact Dan Wolken, Memphis Commercial Appeal at 901-529-2365
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Conference USA Media Day Set for October 19th in Memphis
CONFERENCE USA BASKETBALL MEDIA DAY
Thursday, October 19 - Hilton East - Memphis, Tennessee
Schedule of Events
11:00 a.m. Registration
11:30-12:30 p.m. Lunch
12:30-3:30 p.m. Media Availability
Head Coaches (Print)
Select Student-Athletes (Electronic)
Coaches (Electronic)
Select Student-Athletes (Print)
5:00-7:00 p.m. Live CSTV Men’s Basketball Full Court Press
(From FedExForum, 191 Beale Street, Memphis, Tennessee)
Thursday, October 19 - Hilton East - Memphis, Tennessee
Schedule of Events
11:00 a.m. Registration
11:30-12:30 p.m. Lunch
12:30-3:30 p.m. Media Availability
Head Coaches (Print)
Select Student-Athletes (Electronic)
Coaches (Electronic)
Select Student-Athletes (Print)
5:00-7:00 p.m. Live CSTV Men’s Basketball Full Court Press
(From FedExForum, 191 Beale Street, Memphis, Tennessee)
Former Tigers Elliot Perry and Hank McDowell to Join Memphis Grizzlies Radio Broadcasts
Memphis, Tennessee, October 10, 2006
The Memphis Grizzlies announced today that Elliot Perry and Hank McDowell have joined the radio broadcast team as color commentators for the 2006-07 season. Perry and McDowell are both NBA veterans, who also starred at the University of Memphis and Treadwell High School.
Perry, who joined the Grizzlies’ local ownership group on Oct. 8, 2005, brings 10 years and 547 games of NBA experience to the broadcast team. He averaged 6.3 points and 3.1 assists per game while playing for seven teams, including a two-game stint with the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2001-02 season. Since his retirement Perry has served as a player representative with the NBA Players Association and has also filled in on Grizzlies radio broadcasts.
McDowell spent six seasons in the NBA, from 1981-87, playing in 206 games while averaging 2.9 points and 2.3 rebounds. Following his playing career, McDowell launched Memphis-based McDowell Marketing, a local business specializing in corporate apparel and promotional products. He has also worked as an analyst on both radio and television broadcasts for the University of Memphis.
“We are extremely happy to add both Elliot and Hank to our radio broadcasts,” said Memphis Grizzlies Senior Vice President of Broadcast Randy Stephens. “They will each provide a unique perspective on the game and both are a part of the proud tradition of Memphis basketball, not to mention fixtures in the local community.”
Perry will provide color commentary for Grizzlies home games this season while he and McDowell will split the away games. All eight of the Grizzlies’ preseason games and 82 regular season games will again be broadcast on the team’s flagship station, Soul Classics 103.5 FM.
The Memphis Grizzlies announced today that Elliot Perry and Hank McDowell have joined the radio broadcast team as color commentators for the 2006-07 season. Perry and McDowell are both NBA veterans, who also starred at the University of Memphis and Treadwell High School.
Perry, who joined the Grizzlies’ local ownership group on Oct. 8, 2005, brings 10 years and 547 games of NBA experience to the broadcast team. He averaged 6.3 points and 3.1 assists per game while playing for seven teams, including a two-game stint with the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2001-02 season. Since his retirement Perry has served as a player representative with the NBA Players Association and has also filled in on Grizzlies radio broadcasts.
McDowell spent six seasons in the NBA, from 1981-87, playing in 206 games while averaging 2.9 points and 2.3 rebounds. Following his playing career, McDowell launched Memphis-based McDowell Marketing, a local business specializing in corporate apparel and promotional products. He has also worked as an analyst on both radio and television broadcasts for the University of Memphis.
“We are extremely happy to add both Elliot and Hank to our radio broadcasts,” said Memphis Grizzlies Senior Vice President of Broadcast Randy Stephens. “They will each provide a unique perspective on the game and both are a part of the proud tradition of Memphis basketball, not to mention fixtures in the local community.”
Perry will provide color commentary for Grizzlies home games this season while he and McDowell will split the away games. All eight of the Grizzlies’ preseason games and 82 regular season games will again be broadcast on the team’s flagship station, Soul Classics 103.5 FM.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)