
After a couple days of this, the routine gets repetitive. Many of the coaches have already left town, and the ones that are in the stands seem to have the glazed-over look. It’s just too much basketball, really.
- I started off watching John Wall for a third time. He’s really, really special. He’ll definitely have to work on improving his defense, but he does a lot of the same stuff Derrick Rose did. I never saw Rose play at the AAU level, but it would be interesting to compare them at this point.
- I watched Nolan Dennis’ team play against the Kenny Boynton team. Dennis does a lot of good stuff and has a quick first step, especially along the baseline. He made some great moves to the rim in the second half of that game but was playing with some foul trouble. He’s a good court leader, always communicating with teammates and is very active on the bench. Boynton has a strange-looking shot, but it goes in most of the time. He hit a couple big buckets down the stretch to pull out the victory. John Calipari and Billy Donovan were both there watching him.
- I then went over to watch the Memphis Magic team play. Though they won the afternoon game, they lost in the quarterfinals at night (I didn’t see it). It’s a talented team, but they don’t play together particularly well. Joe Jackson had a pretty good game and looked much better than last week at the Battle of the Bluff in Memphis. He’s so small out there, but he can really pop off a bunch of points in a row.
- Christian Watford had a very poor first half, but picked it up in the second half. He played much better after Calipari walked in the gym. Wonder if that’s a coincidence? Watford has had a tough week - a lot of people are down on him after this performance. Calipari, Derek Kellogg and Randy Bennett of St. Mary’s were the only three head coaches watching that game.
- Mardracus Wade has a chance to be pretty good. He’s only a rising junior, but Clyde Wade’s cousin is really active defensively and is athletic enough to get the job done. He shoots it pretty well too. He’s worth keeping an eye on at Mitchell this year. If he keeps getting better, he’ll have a shot to play at Memphis.
Responses to “Wrapping up from Vegas”
July 26th, 2008 at 6:04 pm
It is good to hear that Coach Cal is still there and watching, although other coaches have gone home. Although it may become routine and mundain, the players are still on the court and this is an important time for them. Dan, I’m really glad you are there and able to provide this information. You are the ambassador for the fans of Memphis Tigers!
July 26th, 2008 at 9:45 pm
Dan,
Nice way to close out this tournament on your part and thanks for the update. You know, all of us are not able to bounce around the country like you and Coach Cal. lol
I think when Joe Jackson hit the weights, he is going to be a very formidable player by next year. Well, I see the John Wall and Abdul Gaddy scenario will just have to just play itself out.
Dan, as usual, Job… Well Done!!!
RB
July 27th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
Dan, your “Success” article in the CA this morning was delicious! Thanks for a great read which confirms the enthusiasm over the Memphis Tiger BB program is based on fact and track record rather than hype.
Any word on Garcia’s academic progress? Is there cause to be concerned? I can’t find anything current on how he’s coming along.
July 29th, 2008 at 2:44 pm
Dan,
As an out of town Tiger fan you always make my day when I can keep up with what is going on. Any news on Simpkins and Garcia?
Keep up the good work.

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