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twitterUNLV BASKETBALL:
Former Southern Cal commit Johnson to visit UNLV this weekend
6-foot-7 forward said he’s followed Rebels, looking for chance to play right away
Tuesday, June 2, 2009 | 3:56 p.m.
Fayette County (Ga.) High forward Noel Johnson
The Rebel Room
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Ryan Greene and Rob Miech get you up to speed on all the recent developments in the world of UNLV hoops, including takes on Quintrell Thomas's commitment, the potential addition of Noel Johnson into the fold and the future of the Mountain West Conference tournament in Las Vegas.
Fayette County (Ga.) High forward Noel Johnson
Sun Archives
UNLV coach Lon Kruger indicated a couple weeks back after landing a commitment from Kansas transfer Quintrell Thomas that, unless something popped up, he didn't anticipate adding any other players to the 2009-10 fold.
Well, something popped up.
Noel Johnson, a 6-foot-7 small forward from Fayetteville, Ga., who Rivals.com ranks as the No. 53 overall prospect in the 2009 class, will visit UNLV this weekend. He confirmed as much when reached on Tuesday afternoon.
"I like the coaching staff and the tradition with the run-and-gun style," he said. "I definitely have (followed them) even though they weren't one of my top choices the first time I was being recruited."
Johnson was originally part of a spectacular recruiting class put together by Tim Floyd at Southern Cal, which included fellow top prospects Solomon Hill and Renardo Sidney. But with the impending fallout from Floyd's alleged cash payment of $1,000 to a handler of former guard O.J. Mayo, all three have since either de-committed or been granted releases from signed letters of intent.
"It was hard," Johnson said of breaking it off with the Trojans. "But you've got to do what's best for you."
Rivals also ranks him as the No. 11 small forward in the class, and he's currently the second-ranked unsigned prospect in the class, behind only Brooklyn point guard Lance Stephenson (No. 11 overall).
The connection to UNLV for Johnson is between his father -- Lynbert "Cheese" Johnson -- and Rebels assistant Lew Hill. The elder Johnson and Hill are longtime friends who both went to Wichita State. Johnson played for the Shockers from 1976-79, while Hill played from 1985-88.
Johnson also set up a visit with Charlotte, and said there are still other schools he's considering, too. Either way, Johnson said he hopes to have a decision made within the next three weeks.
At 6-foot-7, Johnson checks in at under 200 pounds -- a frame which will remind Rebels fans of current sophomore wing and UCLA transfer Chace Stanback.
He averaged 21 points and 8 rebounds and 3 assists last year for Fayette County High, which went 21-8, including a 14-game win streak before having its season ended by Miller Grove.
Johnson said he enjoys playing on the perimeter, as he's proven to be an effective 3-point shooter. He connected on 58 of 177 attempts a year ago (32.8 percent). He hit 82 3-point attempts as a junior while averaging 23.8 points and 8.4 boards.
"I like to play on the perimeter," he said. "I'm trying to play a lot of minutes right away, go somewhere where I can contribute."
The addition of Thomas left the Rebels with one open scholarship for the upcoming season. They also got a verbal pledge from Houston center Henry Buckley, who will attend prep school in North Carolina next season before coming to UNLV in time for the 2010-11 campaign, putting his name with the lone scholarship the Rebels had to give for that class.
If UNLV does not land a commitment from Johnson, their open scholarship for this season will roll over towards the 2010 class. If they do get Johnson, however, the only way to add players in the 2010 class would be with a current player leaving.
Discussion: 86 comments so far…
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If Johnson commits, who's the next to go-go-go? Santee? Shaw? Squirrel?
Looks like things are improving.
From what I have read and watched about Noel Johnson the kid is MONEY...I hope we land him and in the process pipe down the recruitment pessimists...
Who knows...he could be the next Beas Hamga!!!
Let's hope he's not the next Beas Hamga!
And if we get Johnson, Sinatra711 don't ever comment on Lon Kruger's recruiting again (at least until the end of next year, lol).
Getting this guy could open us up as a destination for top recruits. Of course, this will only continue if we do something next year. A sweet sixteen type season next year could set us on a collision path with a final four caliber roster.
Come join us Johnson, you'll get some big time minutes at a big time program. UNLV is on it's way back to the top!
Possible starting lineup 2009 -
JASPER
WILLIS
JOHNSON
STANBACK
LOPEZ
And a killer bench -
BELLFIELD
MARSHALL
HAWKINS
WALLACE
SHAW
SANTEE
MASSAMBA
Let's go Kruger!!! Land us a STUD!!!!
Mee, where are you my son?
Ok, now this is what I'm talking about. Let's get this guy or how about that unsigned Brooklyn point guard, Lance Stephenson?
But before you guys go giving Kruger all of the credit.....let me remind you what the story says in the 1st paragraph.........
"UNLV coach Lon Kruger indicated a couple weeks back after landing a commitment from Kansas transfer Quintrell Thomas that, unless something popped up, he didn't anticipate adding any other players to the 2009-10 fold."
That doesn't sound like Kruger did anything. This kid landed in our lap. That bothers me. Kruger should have been working him all along. Also, with an unsigned, number 11 overall player out there (Stephenson) and the 3 from USC that de-committed, why isn't Kruger actively recruiting? Doesn't that bother anybody out there besides me? Seriously?
I hope we get this kid.
S711
sinatra at least you are making an effort, good to see you are a unlv fan to some extent.
next time research your topic before you post bud.
Kruger did recruit him and johnson had no intrest in the first go around. the only reason noel is considering UNLV is because of his fathers relationship with Lew Hill.
the reason for kruger saying "unless something popped up, he didn't anticipate adding any other players to the 2009-10 fold." is because we only have 1 schollie available for next year, being that cory has put us as his top choice for now. they are waiting for this stud to commit over the summer.
you cant recruit people that have no intrest. the NY point guard has no intrest.... waste of time and money. cory does have intrest.
Did I miss something sportsguy? Who is cory?
Do agree with your post though as far as Kruger goes. Kruger may not have personally had a hand in getting Noel interested but....he did hire Lew Hill, which indirectly helps in giving him credit for the process.
cory joseph cam...... 2010 class 95 grade findlay prep pg rated #5 PG 2010 class
Sweet... I'm loving all of this UNLV hoops coverage in late spring and all of the comments. You guys are true rebel fans!! GO REBS
Look, for all of you guys that think kruger hasn't recruited well lets think about a couple of things.
Lets remember back about 3 or 4 years ago when we were dying to get the caliber of recruits that we have now. We have a fully LOADED roster now, there are no really starting positions. Each and every one of these guys are perfectly capable of being starters. Lopez is a potential freshman all-american according to espn,we now have guys who played on UK, UCLA, and Memphis. we have a 4 star local guy who is gonna be special, we have plenty of height now where as before we were dying for someone over 6'6". We now have a 6'10" center that is a shot blocker like joel was. We now have a Kansas guy that will be special in '10. And we now have an opportunity, a REALLY GOOD opp at getting a guy from USC!!! OLY COW this is like a dream team!!!! For all of those that think like that just remember this.
Sinatra, what do you know about what the Kruger and his staff are or are not doing on the recruiting front???
Seriously, why do blowhards like you think you know what you're talking about? Trust me, there isn't a college basketball D1 staff that isn't recruiting all the time.....
Why is Noel Johnson visiting this weekend? Because of Kruger and his staff. People can say that its all about Lew Hill, but come on, didn't Kruger hire Hill to recruit, and pays him six figures annually to do it? The answer is yes, and its not like the guy doesn't help recruit players. Ask the area coaches how many times they saw Bayno or Spoonhour....Kruger is a constant at LV area HS games, and I guarantee it was pivotal in landing the Anthony Johnson (he had offer from UCLA).
Know before you type.....just throwing out comments like you really know makes you look stupid by some and misleads the rest.
oops, mean to write, "Anthony Marshall" not "Johnson" in the above post
Sinatra- the last thing we need is a prima donna like Stephenson. The guy is trouble- with a capital T. He is a punk- there is a reason he is rated #11 and still does not have a team. NO THANK YOU.
WE DO NOT NEED LANCE STEPHENSON! That guy would blow up our chemistry. Come on think about it, this kid is a one and done and will be expecting/demanding to start. Hmmmmm... well we have Jasper, Willis & Bellfield as potential starting point guards and you cant tell me that Willis is and his personality is willing to lay down to Stephenson and his personality. I can see Kruger having to break up fights in practice.
jimmy, I think the Sun has made it to where the days of college basketball blackout throughout the summer are over. Of course, late recruiting certainly helps too. I love this talk as well, wish the same could be said for football. GO REBS!!!
We would be happy to have you Noel!
Kruger will get you ready for the NBA.
BE A REBEL!!!
Sinatra - once again you are at it, posting retarded comments like you actually know what your talking about. like unlvrebelx said, quit throwing out comments like you know something because it will mislead people. Are you serious about going after Stephenson??? Ya you really know how to build a program. do you really think we need 4 point guards??? so please quit posting uneducated retarded comments. just because someone is "rated" 11th overall doesnt mean he'll be a fit in the Rebel program. as for the 3 that de-commited... if you would do your homework you would realize that one of those is Johnson, the one visiting UNLV and the other 2 have already signed commitments. Sinatra please quit posting uneducated comments, if your going to post at least get some facts instead of commenting out of your rear end, you make real rebel fans look bad.
Sinatra, you better get a new screen name. You have zero credibility.
REBELS are gonna blow up. Locking down NOEL JOHNSON gives us mad depth.
COREY JOSEPH (Findlay Prep) will end up being a TOP 10 over-all recruit in the nation by the end of next season. If we get him we'll have one of the best front courts in the nation.
Like I said....all you guys can do is name call. We will see how this all pans out and see who is willing to say they were right or they were wrong.
I never said I was an expert recruiter, I am only commenting as a Rebel fan. I give credit where credit is due and in this case, from what I read on this article......it wasn't Kruger's doing. I think it is YOU who believe that you are experts.
I really don't care if I have zero credibility from any of you guys/gals on this site because you don't matter to me......the team does and I am here to post comments about how I feel about the team, not win a popularity contest.
Get a new screen name? That's hilarious.....that's what you do when people disagree with you and you can't handle criticism. I can handle it.
S711
Hey S711,
Who hire Lew Hill? Kruger. I guess Kruger did have something to do with it.
Sinatra: you obviously know nothing about recruiting. Most often it is the TOP ASSISTANT who does the majority of the recruiting. When John calipiari was at UMASS, who do you think recruited Camby and Roe? It was Billy Bayno. Who do you thinkg recruited Michael Beasley to K State? Frank Martin- not Bob Huggins. This is the NORM at all major powers. Get a clue.
Ok, you're right, Kruger gets the credit if he signs......happy now?
Will you also knock him if he doesn't sign?
It's a 2 way street you know.....if you are willing to give him the credit if he signs, you should be willing to bash him if he doesn't.
I'm willing to bet you don't call him out if he doesn't sign.....right?
LOL
S711
i will call him out when he has a crappy recruiting CLASS. you will never get EVERY recruit you want. if one guy doesnt sign that is not neccessarily considered worthy of "bashing", however, if he does not have a good class..... i would want to hold him accountable yes. but that will not happen so we have nothing to worry about.
Kruger gets credit because its his previous experience and the fact that he is a good coach. One of the only reasons this guy is coming is because of Krugers previous NBA experience and the kids father trusts him. No credit needs to be given to Kruger if the guy does or does not sign. Its a choice the kid will make. Just because kids are available at this stage doesnt automatically mean we get a look, UNLV isnt exactly the top destination for any colllege hoopster.
PS we have no shot at Joseph
Maybe you don't know this rule Sinatra but a coach cannot recruit a player that has signed a letter of intent. Johnson had sign with USC and Kruger was not allowed to talk to him until he was released. So UNLV was not able to recruit him until recently.
"who cares" - how do you come to the conclusion that we have no shot at joseph?
Logic leads me to that conclusion..the same reason we had no shot at Avery Bradly...UNLV is not a top destination for top recruits, yet. That kid can go anywhere in teh world, no reason for him to play in the MWC in front of Versus TV crowds. That kid elite, UNLV is not worthy enough of him. I am not trashing UNLV either, think objectivly. Just because a kid is in our backyard doeesnt mean he even gives us a look, it happens everday to all level of recruits.
who ... Avery Bradley was already committed to Texas when he got to Findlay Prep. Not the case with Joseph.
he IS giving UNLV a look. he has us listed as one of his top choices. i agree that we are not an elite powerhouse program YET, but that could be a reason why a stud would want to come. to know that he was a centerpiece in building a program.... rather than having to play like an all star just to be accepted. some kids probably look at UNLV the way you just described, others look at it as a way to prove themselves to everyone. not to mention kruger is very good at getting people to the NBA. if he turns walk ons like rene and kids like luis amundson and joel anthony into the kind of players they are..... imagine if he got a stud to start with...... how good could he make him?
Who cares? Who cares about your posts, you're FOS. UNLV is at the top of Corey Joseph's list and if we have a big year on the court next year, we'll get him.
Florida Gators won two championships without 5-star players in startng lineup. Al Horford, Joakim Noah, Corey Brewer are 4-star players. Taurean Green and Lee Humphrey are 3-star players. These are the starters for that Florida Gators in 2006 and 2007. UNLV don't need some 5-star players to be on top to win it all. When Lon Kruger benched Darris Santee for the last 10 games, they struggled so bad just won 4 out of 6 on that stretch.
I keep seeing everybody happy with the kansas, ucla, memphis and arizona state cast offs. remember some of our best transfers were g. anthony from portland state, and elmore spencer from georgia. l.j was basically only recruited by smu. GO REBS from here in nebraska.
UNLV tried to get Rick Pitino and Bobby Knight back in year 2000 when he resigned with the Celtics. Bill Bayno was fired in 2000 by UNLV. Rick Pitino can get top high players without recruiting some of them. Most top high school players just chooses their favorite coaches, not the school.
The fact that we are on the "top" of Cj's list is a shame. Its a pity vote for us. If i were a big time recruit what would i want? 1. A team that hasnt been relevant for almost 20 years where i can come in and POTENTIALLY change the face of teh program OR come into a top tier program and be the next big star, actually play against NBA level talent every night and get a good look from NBA GMS? HMMM, tough choice for me.
Dont get me wrong guys, i love UNLV as much as the next guy, but the relaity is we do not get the guys that UNC, DUKE, and others get because we have not been good. I agree with the talent we have coming in is a MAJOR upgrade over the last years, but that said alot of teams get a great recruiting class every year and still cant win a championship.
Oh lord, here we go again.
Go read posts from the last two weeks who cares, you're a few steps behind with your thinking.
Odds are you're lazy so I'll break it down so ya don't have to read: This program has NEVER gotten Duke or UNC kinds of kids. Period. We didn't even win our NC with those kinds of guys.
"This program has NEVER gotten Duke or UNC kinds of kids. Period. We didn't even win our NC with those kinds of guys.".............
So I guess that means we should never try to get those kinds of recruits? With that kind of thinking it will be a self fulfilling prophecy. It makes me sad to be a UNLV alum/fan when I read stuff like that.
S711
"The fact that we are on the top of CJ's list is a shame."
Really? With a statement like that you shouldn't be allowed to call yourself a Rebel fan.
Oh, and you're not a big-time recruit buddy. Did you even play high-school basketball? And you're not Cory Joseph, so where do you get this assumption that you somehow know exactly how he feels about UNLV?
I mean, I'm not gonna lie, I think we have about 15% chance of landing Joseph. And yes, some Rebel fans are getting their hopes up by thinking he is a lock.
Just look at where the program is headed in the last few weeks alone. We landed QT and have an excellent shot at landing Noel Johnson. So who's to say we can't land Joseph in the fall?
711, your ignorance is profound. I noticed the questions you posted for Tark in the comment section of his last article and let me tell you, if I were him I'd tell you to shove it.
All of the answers to your questions can be found in Tark's book "Runnin' Rebel." But see, you don't need to pick up books and read because you think you know it all.
5th graders usually need to be told things 20 times before they begin to comprehend a concept and by my assesment you are in that mold so let me say it again (I suggest you say it slow and repeat to yourself often):
The Runnin' Rebels do not need the kind of recruits YOU think this program has to have to win.
Ready schoolboy?
1990 National Champion Runnin' Rebel starting five:
Butler - JC transfer
Augmon - Mid-level high school recruit
Johnson - JC transfer
Anthony - 4-yr transfer
Hunt - Prop 48 high school recruit
2007 Sweet Sixteen qualifier Runnin' Rebel starting five:
Essengue - JC transfer
White - JC transfer
Umeh - Mid-level h.s.recruit (via Spoonhour)
Adams - top 30 h.s. recruit
Kruger - 4-year transfer
Two of the program's most successful teams the last 20 years (less the 90-91 squad) had one top 30 guy straight from high school.
That concludes today's lesson son; go play in your sandbox.
LOL @ Grayback4Life......you are satisfied with a Sweet Sixteen Qualifier? Seriously? You are comparing that team to a National Championship team from 19 years ago?
You know what's funny? The Sun Staff commended me on my questions for Tark......That's right, commended.
What's even funnier is that none....and I repeat NONE of you name callers and so called "experts" had any questions for him. That shows a lot about character.
So you can continue your name calling and put downs of anybody who disagrees with you. You don't matter to me anyways. I've come to the conclusion that you guys will never get it.....which is fine. I guess I overestimated my fellow Alum and Rebel Fans and thought there would be an appetite to change the attitude and expectations of the program. You can take a guy out of the hood, but you can't take the hood out of the guy.....it's never more evident than right now.
I will stop my call for action by Rebel Fans, but I won't stop my criticism of the staff until I see some results. If I see good results, I will eat crow.....if I don't, I will continue. One thing will NEVER change......My love of the Rebels & my heightened expectations for what I believe is an Elite, D1 program.....despite what everyone else thinks.
S711
SINATRA....you can't read son. Nobody commended your f*cking questions, you retard.
Here is what Rob said: "Sinatra, first and foremost, great i.d.!!! Am a big Sinatra fan. Thanks for the questions."
He said he liked your username, you douche. He said thanks for asking the questions. You weren't commended.
I am so annoyed with this friggin guy. Reading comments from other readers used to be enjoyable. Thanks for the disservice to the readers, sinatra. Your the best.
"That's right, commended."
LOL at Sinatra711.
"Rob likes my screen name. YIPEE!!!!!!!!!!"
Seriously. How pathetic is it that? Not only does he get his jollies from a compliment about his internet screen name. He tries to spin and misconstrue what Rob said in order to try to gain credibility.
Says he's a Rebel fan and trivializes the Sweet 16 run in the same breath. No wonder he's grasping at straws for an ounce of credibility.
You guys forgot this line from Rob...." I'll run those by him." He obviously thought enough of the comments to run them by Tark......more than what you can say about you name calling guys......
Is there anything else you guys can say besides putdowns and name calling? Seriously? Did you guys get anything out of whatever education you got? Do you have anything to add to the conversation? Or are you going to continue with the adolescent banter?
It really is getting tiring......I can handle name calling, so you can dish it out all you want......but at least add to the conversation......oh wait....that's right, you can't.
S711
What have you added to this conversation about Noel Johnson. Every single one of your posts from the last 2 weeks are filled with redundancy and ignorance.
The point is its not name calling that we are doing. It is obvious to everyone here that you are a moron. If everybody who you have come in contact with on this message board has testified repeatedly that you are a moron, well guess what? You are a moron.
Man I can't believe how giddy and psyched you are because Rob liked your questions. You sound like a 5 year old.
But hey maybe you should ask questions more often, instead of just pretending you know everything. They were the most meaningful thing you have ever posted.
You can infer what you want from, "I'll run those by him," but that definitely is not commending you. To make that leap is a stretch and pretty arrogant.
It's obvious that he only commended you on your screen name and you took that compliment and applied it to the content of your post.
You keep stating you're a Rebel fan, but your only agenda in posting here is to bash Kruger. You attempt to minimize the role he played in NJ's recruitment and trivialize what he's accomplished at UNLV. You trivialize the Sweet 16 run when UNLV hadn't won a tournament game in nearly two decades.
You tell people to stop calling you names and "add to the conversation." But all you "add" is anti-Kruger rhetoric. You haven't posted in this forum for very long, but everything in your short time here is the same.
Your agenda is lame. Fans can see right through it, and that's why they call you names.
Is there any updates on Noel Johnson's visit yet? I hope we made his visit worth his (and our) while.
runninrebelsfan ... we'll get an update up tomorrow afternoon, hopefully ...
Noel Johnson seems like a big time player. I'm sorta concerned with him saying he likes to play out on the perimeter. I would like to see someone at 6'7" have more of an inside game, to go with his outside game. And shooting only 32.8% isn't a great 3 point percentage. But he looks very athletic and would be a solid addition to the rebel team.
Now in regards to Sinatra711:
I see your frustration with us not being able to get the top tier recruits. And I think everyone would eventually like to get those recruits. The problem is, we just haven't been a good enough program over the past 16 years or so to land those type of recruits. And I think the only reason why some people have questioned Kruger's recruiting ability lately is because of what happened last season. There were alot of big expectations from this year's group, and unfortunatly we underachived alot this year. I dont think I've seen a team have so many quality wins and so many bad losses all in one year. And it wasn't just the new guys that sturggled on the team this year either. Wink Adams had his worst year out of his 4 years here. Joe Darger didnt shoot the ball as well as he had in the past. So we've had some guys that were good for us in the past struggle this year. But be patient, lets see what happens this year. I'm willing to give Kruger this season to see what he can do. This is his first year with all of his recruits too by the way, so that will be interesting to see how he does. But like you said, if he has another year like he did this year, then I think we start to put the pressure on kruger. It shouldn't take 5 or 6 years to get a program into the top 25 on a consistent basis.
reb45-
check out his videos on youtube and you will be more than content with him staying outside. he is a HUGE outside threat.... legit 6'7. he has the inside game but his JR year had a busted ankle so obviously he is gonna stay outside as much as possible without hurting the team..... good news is he likes to get his teamates involved, and his coach says he doesnt need to have the ball the whole game to make an impact. perfect player to play along chase, d jazz, and willis
rebelfanforever45 - "I'm willing to give Kruger this season to see what he can do. This is his first year with all of his recruits too by the way, so that will be interesting to see how he does. But like you said, if he has another year like he did this year, then I think we start to put the pressure on kruger. It shouldn't take 5 or 6 years to get a program into the top 25 on a consistent basis.".............
FINALLY! Someone who gets it and is willing to admit that we need to put pressure on Kruger. I wholeheartedly agree with you! This is exactly what I've been trying to say the past few weeks. Hmm......I wonder why they don't call you a moron, idiot, negative, etc?
Your comments are well stated.....I was beginning to think I was the only person out there with that point of view. At least there is some sign of life for setting a high expectation for our program and a willingness to hold our coach accountable for his actions.
S711
"All UNLV gets are throwaways from other schools"
"I'm embarrassed by our team"
"we acquired a bunch of scrubs"
"our team sucks"
"we are going to suffer through one mediocre season after another"
"What I see are 2 blown scholarships for this year and a bunch of scraps for the following year"
"3 losses total to SDSU. San Diego State! Seriously? This alone should get him (Kruger) fired."
So you don't like the team. You've already written them off for this year. You don't like the coach. You think he should be fired. What exactly about UNLV Basketball are you a fan of?
You mentioned you go to u$c? Why don't you just root for them? They buy top recruits like you want UNLV to. Look how well that's worked out for Tim Floyd. I suppose he'd be better than Kruger for UNLV, right? I mean he got top recruits didn't he?
Never mind he cheated and flushed the program down the toilet in order to do so.
You focus only on the negative. You won't even acknowledge what Kruger has done for UNLV Basketball. It's all just hate. The only reason you'll even mention his success in the ncaa tournament is to trivialize it.
"I'm willing to give Kruger this season to see what he can do." YOU....ARE willing.....what a laugh.
It is almost as though you think that the program is awaiting your approval.
Look, we figured you out, you are not a Rebel fan. Just another hater who is desperately trying to will our program to fail.
I bet you are a UNR fan.
Wouldn't surprise me, those fools are always coming over to our boards.
Go REBELS!!
First of all, I'm going to be enrolled at UNLV this coming fall. So dont make assumptions about me that you dont even know are true.
Secondly, I'm not asking for UNLV to have my approval. I'm just saying how much longer can we wait? I have been patient with Kruger since he has been here. And I think this next year's team will be just fine. But if he so happens to have another year where he goes to the NIT and loses in the first round, then I start to question him a little bit. Its not that I dont think he is an excellent coach because I have already seen that. But if it doesnt produce results, then the necessary changes need to be made. I'm just like everyone else. I want to see UNLV do well. I'm also not looking to cause an argument with anybody either.
And also, somebody mentioned to me to watch the youtube video. And I have to say that he did look impressive. He has a smooth stroke and will provide another threat on the offensive end. Hopefully he can put on a little more weight, so he can bang around with the big guys a bit.
rebelfanforever45 - I see your point of view and I too would like to see a change if we have another disappointing season.
S711
true_fan - I was expressing the true way I feel about our team.....that is what a message board is for isn't it? I'm sorry if you disagree with that.
And regarding your comment about supporting USC....I will always support UNLV no matter what.....I don't know how I will feel after attending USC for the next 2 years. I'm sure I will have some loyalty to them as time goes on.....but my fist love is UNLV. If I wanted to jump ship, I would have done so a long time ago. I chose USC because they are going to give me the best education I can get at this point....if UNLV had better academics I would have went there......I have to do what is best for me and my family and that means USC over UNLV.
S711
I don't buy your BS.
You claim to be a supporter, but all you do is denegrate the players and coach. All of your comments are negative and you ridicule those who try to counter with anything positive, labeling them "supporters of mediocrity."
Again, the only reason you'll even mention any of Kruger's successes is to trivialize them.
I think you claiming to have some attachment to UNLV is just a ruse in order to try to gain credibility and further your obvious agenda.
I'm glad to see the majority of real fans see through your BS.
A prediction for this season:
Sinatra will be MIA after every win, and calling for Kruger's head if we drop one or have a bad game. Just like Rebel Robert/Sufferin Succotash/rebfan4evr/homer. By the way, does it tell you anything that homer is your biggest fan? LOL
My only point was this true fan. Yes Kruger has had some good seasons here at UNLV (sweet sixteen and second round), but we should have build on that and made it again to the NCAA tournament. Yes we had some unfortuante things happen during the season. Like not having a big man for the second year in a row. Which makes me question Lon Kruger's recruiting in that department! The most successful big men to come out of UNLV over the past 5 years were Joel Anthony and Louis Amundson, BOTH OF WHICH WERE NOT KRUGER"S RECRUITS! He inherited them. And the only one's that he has recruited have barely even seen time on the floor, (Beas Hamga-transfered, Darris Santee-benched because he can't make a lay-up or rebound, Brice Massamba-can barely jump over a credit card and falls over if the AC kicks on, Emanuel Aldife-transfered, Lamar Roberson-transfered), so am i really being that out of line? But besides all of that, we have still managed to win alot of games, which still gives me hope that Kruger can pull something off. But if we have another year like this past year and struggle to have a dominating big man down low, then I feel Kruger should be on the hot seat. He needs to start putting this program in the top 25 every year.
True_Fan - For your information, I am a UNLV graduate....Class of '96. And you? What year did you graduate from UNLV? Or what year are you scheduled to graduate?
I don't need to make up some attachment to UNLV. I can easily prove my degree....I can scan my diploma, and post it on a site for you to see if necessary. Is that what you want?
I make no apologies for my opinions....which are obviously not popular on this site. You may disagree with me on the team direction, coach, etc and I don't care....but when you personally attack my background, where I come from, and what I've accomplished.....I take offense to that.
I won't disappear after a win....just watch. You know what will happen? You guys will all disappear if we start losing.....I am not afraid to stand up for what I believe in and if I'm wrong, I will stand up like a man and admit it.
Have a good day sir. I'm done dealing with you.
Next.
S711
Spent a lot time on the concept of proof during your "time at UNLV," did you?
It took me about 3 seconds to find a dozen scanned images of UNLV degrees on the internet.
http://tinypic.com/r/r2nt07/5
Anyone who knows how to use photoshop can make it look like mickey mouse got one.
That's some real solid logic there. But I guess it's not any more unintelligent than anything else you post.
And it's not that your opinions are not popular on this site. Your agenda is not popular amoung actual Rebel fans. You're very popular with homer.
You see, if your a fan of a team, you celebrate that team's successes. You take pride in a Sweet 16/30 win season, especially after 16 years without an ncaa tournament win. You don't trivialize it.
And to 45,
When did I write anything to you? I haven't addressed you at all. rebfan4evr is another poster who does nothing but hate, like sinatra. Read a little more carefully.
Do you remember how Louis Amundson played when he got to UNLV? Do you remember what Joel looked like on the court before his redshirt year?
The DEVELOPMENT (see I can use all caps to make a point too) of those two is what got them to the nba. Not who recruited them.
Pretty low of you to throw Massamba under the bus with that "credit card" insult when he was playing through an achilles injury the whole season.
As the other posters have mentioned earlier, you have no credibility 711 and you won't earn it either. We have been here since this site's inception, and you suddenly annoint yourself within the last two weeks as some kind of A-1 supporter of the program? Mularkey.
That's what Finfrock and Maxson called themselves too (supporters) and we all know what they are. Do you even know who I'm referring to Mr. UNLV?
45 -- are you enrolling as a traditional or non-traditional student? Don't get sucked into thinking that way...you take a look at the facts and history before making an assumption. I suggest you read Tark & Lon's books as well for a solid understanding of this program and college basketball as a whole. Then, you won't be so quick to criticize the coach no matter the results.
You guys dont understand being a fan...just because your criticize the team and some moves, doesnt make you any less of a fan. I hated Kendall Wallace last year because he cant play defense and is very one dimensional, but did i cheer any less when he actually made some shots? NOpe
Just because you dont blindly believe everything that Lon and staff says or does, doesnt make you any better or any worse of a fan.
Most of you are too blind to see the forrest thru the trees, and i assume every year you think you will win the National Title. Well news flash it aint happening this year. Does that make me a bad fan? On this board yes, but No it doesnt. We have come a long way over the last few years and i love what Lon has done, including all the transfers in and out, but we are still a ways off from being relevant on a national scene
Grayback4Life - I can care less if you believe me or not.....you can't take away what I've earned. Are you UNLV grad? It doesn't matter....even if you were it wouldn't change anything in my eyes. Guess what? I'm not going anywhere. I don't care if you've been around since the site's inception....and you never accept me. Your acceptance does not matter......however, your insults will not be tolerated.
I am still going to speak my mind and if that means it is unpopular....so what? And if that means more flame attacks by you and all of the other people on this site who are afraid of people with a different opinion....so what?
What is so funny is that instead of staying on topic....UNLV basketball/sports.....you have to attack a person. Not once did I attack you or anyone else on this board......I've had to defend myself. Sure, I've said things about coaches, players, and staff.....but that's what this board is for.
You guys are so proud of the fact that you are defending the UNLV program as so called Fans.....yet in the process you've become aggressive dictators who are unwilling to allow opposing opinions on the matter. All fans cannot agree on everything.
I will agree to disagree with you and all of the other oppressors on this site.......can you handle that? or is that too much for you?
Now, can we get back on topic? Next.
S711
who cares - I agree with most of what you said. I don't love what Lon has done with the team.....hence, the source of my criticism.
If I loved what he has done, then I wouldn't be so vocal. If we would have made the NCAA tournament and won a couple of games in the tourney, I wouldn't have been so vocal.
I don't think most of the guys on this site can handle criticism of the program or opposing views......I'm learning that the hard way. But don't let that stop you from posting. Whether or not I agree with you, I would still enjoy your take on the topic at hand.....UNLV sports.
S711
"Not once did I attack you or anyone else on this board......I've had to defend myself. Sure, I've said things about coaches, players, and staff.....but that's what this board is for."
More BS. You have a very short memory.
When Thomas committed and Rebel fans were celebrating and excited, you called them crack heads or said they were smoking crack, something like that.
How is that not an attack?
You announced yourself to this forum by belittling knowledgable UNLV fans who've been around a lot longer than you have and by maligning UNLV Student Athletes.
What did you expect?
"aggresive dictators" LOL. Puh-leeeeeease.
Quite the persecution complex you've got there.
Very nice True_Fan, couldn't have said it better myself!
711 is playing the victim. Never once have I attacked the poster personally or uttered a defamatory phrase -- only spoke about the person's lack of intellect on the subject of Runnin' Rebel basketball, college basketball in general, and brought to light this person's poor reasoning and debating skills.
I think it is reasonable to say if we go to the NIT next year, then Kruger will be on the hot seat.
But if he follows that by an NCAA tourney birth with maybe a win or two, then he will be off the hot seat.
Yes, last season was a disappointment. And, yes, the (lack of)production of our big men last year was really disappointing.
That being said, if you look at the steps the Rebels are taking in the offseason and the incoming recruiting class- plus the addition of Quintrell Thomas and the possible addition of Noel Johnson- then you have to realize that the program is heading in the right direction.
I think some people are angered by the constant criticism and negativity, even in the face of good news such as signing Noel Johnson. Also, undeserved negativity was shown in response to
the QThomas signing as well. This is good news people, act accordingly.
45 -- are you enrolling as a traditional or non-traditional student? Don't get sucked into thinking that way...you take a look at the facts and history before making an assumption. I suggest you read Tark & Lon's books as well for a solid understanding of this program and college basketball as a whole. Then, you won't be so quick to criticize the coach no matter the results.
Dude dont give me a history lesson about UNLV. I have lived near vegas my whole life! I'm transfering over from CSN by the way. I have read Tark's book "Runnin Rebel". If you look at my post under Tark's last article, I mentioned about "the power of the pen" that he had when he was here coaching. he would use that when he brought in new recruits when they came to vegas. I know how he recruited Larry Johnson, Stacey Augmon, Anderson Hunt, and all of those guys. So dont give me that crap!
Secondly True_fan: Yes I did watch both Louis Amundson and Joel Anthony. And you are right, they both improved once Lon Kruger got there and are now both having a good career in the NBA. BUT, he still didn't recruit those guys. I've said that Kruger is a good coach! He is a very good X's and O's guys. But I'm just concerned why we hasn't been able to recruit a big man as dominate as both Louis Amundson and Joel Anthony? And there is no comeback to that because he hasn't yet. I sure hope Carlos Lopez and QT, and hopefully Massamba can get it together.
I am having a hard time reading this crap. If your a true fan or a fan at all how can you complain about a 21 win season. I never thought we could ever beat Louisville and yet loose to CSU in the same season, but I am not ready to through the towel in on Kruger. Wink Adams Lost his shot in the gym, Matt Shaw got injured, Beas Hamga was over rated sell out, Santee flopped.. I don't care who you are, this happens in college sports, and even with all that he produced a winning season with some great wins. We are on the brink of doing great things again In Las Vegas.. Go UNLV.
Whoa 45, easy there son you're about to blow a gasket. Sounds like you're a traditional student and that's cool. You've also read Runnin' Rebel and I commend you for that -- not a lot of people have the discipline to read. And, FYI, I was born & raised in friendly North Las Vegas...
That being said, why would you hold Lon to the fire especially after reading Tark's book? Many of Jerry's recruits "landed" in his lap, so does that make him any less of a coach? Of course not.
Now, go alittle further and read Kruger's book "The X's & O's of Success" and you'll understand exactly what he is doing. I'm almost certain you will lighten up about the so-called "big man recruiting crisis."
..................#1RebFan, you're right on the money my friend!
No I'm not about to blow a gasket. I just want people to know that I know UNLV basketball. Even though I am 22 years old, thats the only team I've ever cared about. I want this team to be the greatest program in College Basketball. And yes Lon Kruger's style of coaching and how he develops players is pretty impressive. My only complaint with him, which I've mentioned, is his recruiting ability. He hasnt been able to land us a big man to even help contribute on the team. Our big men were so bad last year, that he was forced to go back to small ball. We couldn't even have those guys in as a decoy. To me that is so frustrating and hard to believe that we can't get just ONE guy in the past 2 seasons, to step up and be average for us. Thats why I'm so hoping that Lopez and Massamba and Santee can get it together this year. It would be such a boost for our club!
Where were you when we landed Beas Hamga? Probably lining up to see this "one and done" 5 star recruit. We landed a huge big man prospect, he didnt work out, do not confuse development with lack of ability to recruit. Nobody could have known that Hamga was worthless, even you
I was up in the stands watching the game wondering, man Beas Hamga is absolutely terrible! I've been to some of there practices earlier that season, and you could see that he wasn't that great. Thats why they started Darris Santee over him at the beginning of the season. And everyone wondered, why isn't Beas Hamga playing? Its because he wasn't any good. And it shocked me how everyone one of those coaches couldn't see it! They simply recruited potential. He was 7ft tall, he had good high school numbers, (which was due to being 7ft tall), and UNLV thought they could turn him into a stud. BUT YOU CAN NEVER PLAY POTENTIAL. You only play the guys that can produce! So yes he was a 5 star recruit, but if anybody had watched him play, they shouldn't have even bothered recruiting him!
True_Fan & Grayback4Life - There is a difference between using the phrase "you are smoking crack" to make a point, which I did......and the suggestion that I'm not a real UNLV fan or that I didn't really earn a degree from UNLV, which is what Grayback4life and others have suggested.
I'm not claiming to be the victim, all I'm saying is that you guys can't handle opposing views.....which is true. And who says fans of the same team can't have opposing views? It's ludicrous to believe that fans of the same team have to all think alike.
That's besides the point. It's funny how you guys haven't commented on Tark's latest blog.....you know, the one where he agreed with me on the 1 and Done recruiting tactic. Do I sound so silly now? or are you going to start flaming me for being excited that Tark actually agrees with my point of view on that subject? Oh yeah, that's right.......I don't know what I'm talking about because I'm an idiot and a moron.
Ha!
S711
Never said you didn't graduate 711. There you go again making things up.
Yeah, he agreed with you. Think I'll take a page out of your book though and trivialize it by saying:
SO WHAT?
Grayback4Life - Did you not say this?
"As the other posters have mentioned earlier, you have no credibility 711 and you won't earn it either. We have been here since this site's inception, and you suddenly annoint yourself within the last two weeks as some kind of A-1 supporter of the program? Mularkey."
I believe that's you calling into question my being a fan of UNLV. The others were questioning my degree.
Regarding Tark agreeing with my point of view....so what? Well, since you've read his book and respect the man so much, you couldn't even give me credit when he agreed with me.....but of course I didn't expect that you would. That makes me smile even more.
S711
Ya just proved my point 711, thanks. That makes me smile even more.
I should just ignore you but I won't. It's too much fun. You really think you're a Rebel hoops genius. Reality is, your debating skills are horrible and your fandom IS a farce.
You're "that guy."
GB4L (LMFAO)
Grayback4Life - Great to hear from you. Do you have anything to add to the conversation besides trying to make me look bad? Seriously, do you?
Is it pissing you off that Tark agreed with me? It must really be eating away at you. Because I added some worthwhile commentary to this board.
Now you have to go and make fun of my signature? Funny, got anything else there old wise one?
I never said I was a Rebel hoops genius and I never said I was a debater, you did.....so who gives a **** if I'm not good at either one. I don't care.
When are you going to add something to this conversation? or are we going to go back and forth with this elementary school nonsense? I can do that if you want.....because you're "that guy".
Remember, this all started because you disagreed with my comments on the team & staff....you made it personal.
Next.
S711
S711 - Nobody cares that Tark agreed with you. You will ride that like a crutch because you have nothing else to contribute.
But wait, did you know the Rebels already have a one-and-done caliber guy in Jasper? Uh-oh! Now your great question to Tark seems trite because you didn't do your homework. But it's cool, just continue to take pop shots at our kids and our coach from section 221. I'll be here to take shots at YOU from Gucci Row.
This is not personal, this is a message board. It is a game...a game of words and I enjoy beating you at it :)
S711 - Oh, and I don't have to try to make you look bad, you do a pretty good job of that all by yourself. LOL
I HEART S711
I dont know if I would consider Jasper a 1 and done player just yet. He has had alot of injuries that has prohibited him from becoming a really explosive player. Hopefully he gets fully recovered this year, we definitely need his leadership and scoring ability.
Hey 45...word in the inner camp is he has what it takes. And, that's coming from his former Rebel teammates.
But honestly it's really speculation, until - like you said - a kid actually produces those results.
That being said, it begs the questions: What kind of qualities project a kid to label him a "one-and-done" guy? And, does that tag make him better than a kid who takes more time to develop but ends up producing the same or better results?
Noel is not coming to UNLV. HE is deciding between between the Tigers and LSU.