2007 BU commitment- Rashad Austin

[tornado]

Rashad Austin is a 6-9 F/C from Northeastern Junior College (Sterling, CO) that BU has been pursuing, and Rashad was at a Bradley game earlier this season.

Here's an update...
NJC is 26-1, and the new junior college rankings will be out tomorrow, but last week they were ranked 4th in the nation (Division I juco) right behind Chipola (presently 3rd), Redlands (2nd), and Indian Hills (#1).
Their only loss was early in the season (11/24/06) to Dodge City CC), and now they have won 18 games in a row since then.

Austin is averaging 13ppg, 63%FG shooting, 7.5rpg.

[BradleyBrave]

Rashad Austin is a 6-9 F/C from Northeastern Junior College (Sterling, CO) that BU has been pursuing, and Rashad was at a Bradley game earlier this season.

Here's an update...
NJC is 26-1, and the new junior college rankings will be out tomorrow, but last week they were ranked 4th in the nation (Division I juco) right behind Chipola (presently 3rd), Redlands (2nd), and Indian Hills (#1).
Their only loss was early in the season (11/24/06) to Dodge City CC), and now they have won 18 games in a row since then.

Austin is averaging 13ppg, 63%FG shooting, 7.5rpg.

I have from a VERY good source ;) that Austin is only 6'7". Honestly, I would like a guy a little bigger, but he sounds like a good one nonetheless.

[PeoriaLou]

I'm looking at a ruler right now and 2 inches is nothing. So, it doesn't matter to me if he's 6'7 or 6'9, we need a guy who can take over Zach's place in the paint and this guy can do it.

JL wants this guy here and we'll know more in a few months if it's possible.

[bravesonly]

is he a skinny 6-7 or heavy 6-7...that could make a big difference too. i wouldnt mind having an eric coleman type fat*** clogging up the middle for us :D

[Big Mike]

I saw him on his visit here.....and he is big......he was a little taller than Ray Brown so 6'7 is a real height....but has some beef....he would weigh in around 240 to 250 IMO! 8)

[MacabreMob]

He was closer to 6'7" (than 6'9") when I saw him. He is NOT skinny. With a little time to adjust to DI and under BU's weight/training program - he would be a VERY strong 6'7"+ addition in the paint. (IMO)

[bravesonly]

good news!!! i will sleep a little better tonight knowing this... 8)

[TheHeemyMonster]

according to Northeastern's website he is listed at 6'7 240.... so Matt Salley's height plus 20 lbs or so which is a BIG difference IMO

[tornado]

Here is a long bio on Rashad Austin, it says he is a strong 6' 8", 230lb,
but that was before the 2005-2006 season started.
You decide...
http://gonjc.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/092605aab.html



http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/892801.jpeghttp://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/genrel/auto_headshot/666296.jpeghttp://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/285346.jpeghttp://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/285356.jpeg

[BradleyBrave]

Here is a long bio on Rashad Austin, it says he is a strong 6' 8", 230lb,
but that was before the 2005-2006 season started.
You decide...
http://gonjc.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/092605aab.html



http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/892801.jpeghttp://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/genrel/auto_headshot/666296.jpeghttp://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/285346.jpeghttp://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/285356.jpeg

No complaints...the guy looks like a monster. I trust the staff's judgement.

[mexicobufan]

The kid reminds me somewhat of Mike Williams as far as build???

[OrangeandBlack74]

He's not listed among the top 125 on Juco Junction, so I wonder just how good this kid really is?

http://jucojunction.rivals.com/viewrank.asp?ra_key=1690

Not questioning the staff's judgement, but there are others on the top 125 list (Charlie Coley, Wade Knapp) that have BU listed among those interested. Should they be a higher priority?

I do believe that a quality JC big is required for next year, to ease the transition for Thompson/Egolf.

[tornado]

He's not listed among the top 125 on Juco Junction, so I wonder just how good this kid really is?

http://jucojunction.rivals.com/viewrank.asp?ra_key=1690
.

Recall that Boogie, Zach, Will....none were ranked by anyone.
Rashad is a diamond in the rough...a hidden gem, I'd trust JL on this one.

[ER3]

http://louisville.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=2&pr_key=22287

On his rivals.com page, he is listed as a 3-star recruit...and he had a ton of BCS programs listed in his 'college choices' section (Arizona, UCLA, Washington, USC, Notre Dame, Washington State, etc.)

It looks like this page may be a little out of date, but at least at one point in time he was pretty highly thought of...so it's not as if he is a completely unknown prospect that is 'coming out of nowhere' or anything like that...

No idea why he doesn't show up in the Juco rankings...but if BU is, in fact, in on this guy...I will give the staff the benefit of the doubt until proven otherwise...

[Dubl R 1]

According the article posted here, this guy sounds too good to be true. A big time talent, now at a Juco where the coach is known for keeping his kids on the correct academic path. How good are our chances of getting this guy? He sounds exactly like what we need next year.

[MacabreMob]

Here is a long bio on Rashad Austin, it says he is a strong 6' 8", 230lb,
but that was before the 2005-2006 season started.
You decide...
http://gonjc.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/092605aab.html



http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/892801.jpeghttp://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/genrel/auto_headshot/666296.jpeghttp://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/285346.jpeghttp://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/285356.jpeg

Sorry T - I wasn't trying to question you. I was only trying to share my personal observation.

And now that I think about it... wasn't he wearing a baggy coat/jacket with baggy pants? How the heck was I able to tell how built he was (or how much he weighed)?

:wink:

[tornado]

Rashad was very highly recruited out of high school, thus the names of those big schools.
But read above in his bio, and it'll explain things more.
In high school Rashad was a Top 100 prospect, but things changed.
There were some issues that caused Rashad to transfer high schools--- once after his freshman season at Alta Loma, then again between his junior and senior years from Mater Dei to Etiwanda, and at that time he was stated to be
"a 6'7 Street and Smith pre-season All America honoree"

One listing had him as the #77 best senior in the NATION in 2005 and RIVALS had him at #42 IN THE NATION!

Rashad still holds the all time record for Los Angeles Mater Dei HS (a perennial HS power) of 20 rebounds in one game set in his junior year there.
But as a senior, he didn't make a passing test score, plans to go to prep school fell through, and the calls stopped coming.
But the kid has talent.
http://gonjc.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/092605aab.html

[tornado]

I keep getting more updates on Rashad Austin from people who have seen him play every one of this games.

Some if this info is similar to what I have supplied privately to some of you, but here is the latest I received just this morning from yet a different source whose views on Rashad echo the kid's talent and consistency.

Rashad is improving every game, and is the picture of consistentcy. He never seems to have an off night.

Here is the exact text of an e mail I just received from a friend who has been supplying me with some first hand info on Rashad Austin:

>>>>>
The team is playing very well at 26-1. They play an up-tempo style, but their ability to adapt to the half-court style has helped them win some games that looked questionable. First-year coach Eddie Trenkle is doing a great job, but he’ll never tell you that. He said he puts a lot of trust in guys like Rashad because they are here for a reason.

Rashad is averaging 13 points and 7 rebounds, and he’s Mr. Consistent. He’s a double-double almost every night. He scored 22 down at Lamar Community college for his season high. He’s a big body at 6-7, 245. He’s a quiet, confident guy who is very approachable…good-natured kid but he’s not afraid to turn up the intensity for games. He always covers the other team’s biggest player and does a good job.

From my perspective, Rashad is the key to this team because he’s so consistent. You’re not going to watch him one night and go “wow”, but if you watch him night in and night out, you realize this guy does the little things necessary to get wins.

.....

[patrick_o'brian]

This dude is a man. He could possibly step in and dominate. A Top 100 prospect in high school means he has to have a bigger B-ball IQ than Zach. Zach is a ton when he is out of fould trouble, but he could play smarter and foul less and score and rebound alot more. I just hope he is as good a person and athlete as Zach and then we could possibly be getting an animal. GO GET EM COACH!

[Lakeview Brave]

This dude is a man. He could possibly step in and dominate. A Top 100 prospect in high school means he has to have a bigger B-ball IQ than Zach. Zach is a ton when he is out of fould trouble, but he could play smarter and foul less and score and rebound alot more. I just hope he is as good a person and athlete as Zach and then we could possibly be getting an animal. GO GET EM COACH!

I dont know about "step in and dominate" as even POB didnt do that...However if he can step in and give us 13 and 7 every single night plus guard the other teams bigs well then, that may be all we need for the TEAM to dominate. Two things I like is that he plays in an "uptempo" system and he can score with his back to the basket. One thing i am worried about is that he doesnt seem to be a shot blocker which is something we sorely miss this year and probably wont have next year. I have a feeling next years team will do allot more pressing and trapping to create turnovers so maybe a shot blocker wont be as important, still I would like one.

[Braves4Life]

This dude is a man. He could possibly step in and dominate. A Top 100 prospect in high school means he has to have a bigger B-ball IQ than Zach. Zach is a ton when he is out of fould trouble, but he could play smarter and foul less and score and rebound alot more. I just hope he is as good a person and athlete as Zach and then we could possibly be getting an animal. GO GET EM COACH!

I dont know about "step in and dominate" as even POB didnt do that...However if he can step in and give us 13 and 7 every single night plus guard the other teams bigs well then, that may be all we need for the TEAM to dominate. Two things I like is that he plays in an "uptempo" system and he can score with his back to the basket. One thing i am worried about is that he doesnt seem to be a shot blocker which is something we sorely miss this year and probably wont have next year. I have a feeling next years team will do allot more pressing and trapping to create turnovers so maybe a shot blocker wont be as important, still I would like one.

Great points. However, I believe next year's big guards will lead the team in blocks and steals. I'm confident that the overall 6'4"-6'7" size and athleticism of the other four starters (besides Ruff) will be sufficient for the college game and, more importantly, give us an overall size advantage in the MVC.

[tornado]

I have more info on Rashad and will be letting you know.
Rashad Austin had a monster game in NJC's semi regional win,
29 points!! as NJC beat Northwest Wyoming 79-72.

In the quarter finals NJC beat McCook 77-51.
Rashad had 13 pts, 10 rebs.

In the prelims, NJC beat Miles CC 74-48, Rashad scoring 11.

Northeastern then went on to win their Regional. (Region IX)
last night...stats are pending.

[Da Coach]

29 points and 7 rebounds. Great game by Rashad Austin.
Rashad proved he can score if needed. The Northwest Junior College Plainsmen now become one of 16 teams to advance to the NJCAA National Tournament in Hutchinson, Kansas, March 20-24.
They play the winner of Region 15 (Mississippi & Louisiana) in a 1st round game at 6:30 on Tuesday, March 20.

[PeoriaLou]

I have more info on Rashad and will be letting you know.


I hope it's good news....Tornado, you da man!

[georgethedog]

The kid reminds me somewhat of Mike Williams as far as build???

Your memory must not be very good. Mike was much bigger, taller and his shoulders were significantly broader. The only resemblance between the two would be that they both have arms, legs, a head and a torso. I'm not trying to take anything away from a kid that looks to be a perfect fit for our team, but Mike Williams? Thanks for the early morning laugh and have some more Kool-Aide! :wink:

[Da Coach]

I have seen Rashad and he is not quite as big as Mike williams.
His physique is a lot more like Anthony Tolliver of Creighton (http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaab/players/34069), or Randall Falker of SIU. (http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaab/players/34849)

[Da Coach]

In the Regional Final last night, Rashad Austin had 14 points and 11 rebounds. Here is the box score from last night--
http://www.wncc.net/orgs/sports/2007regionaltournament/game15--final.htm

Also, here is the box score for the semifinal game Tuesday night when Austin had his 29 point/7 rebound game--
http://www.wncc.net/orgs/sports/2007regionaltournament/game14--njcnw.htm

[it's boogie time]

Thanks for the updates on this recruit.

If the guy can rebound consistantly, I want him in a BU uniform. I think there will be plenty of scorers in the mix next year.

[BradleyBrave]

Is anyone else ready for 'Stone Cold' Rashad Austin? I want 'Austin 3:16' shirts and chants of 'Austin, Austin, Austin' ringing throughout Carver next year!

[romar]

Is anyone else ready for 'Stone Cold' Rashad Austin? I want 'Austin 3:16' shirts and chants of 'Austin, Austin, Austin' ringing throughout Carver next year!

Or Rashad "Steve" Austin - the $6 million dollar man - LOL!! I can almost hear the student section making that special effect noise they would make every time he zoomed in with his bionic eye!!

[mexicobufan]

mexicobufan wrote:
The kid reminds me somewhat of Mike Williams as far as build???


"Your memory must not be very good. Mike was much bigger, taller and his shoulders were significantly broader. The only resemblance between the two would be that they both have arms, legs, a head and a torso. I'm not trying to take anything away from a kid that looks to be a perfect fit for our team, but Mike Williams? Thanks for the early morning laugh and have some more Kool-Aide!"

If you will notice I put two question marks after my statement because when Mike played at BU I was young enough that everyone looked big to me. I dont know if its the waiting on the NCAA bid or what but some folks seem a little tense. I am glad I made you laugh but next time try to understand what a question mark means and maybe it will help you understand its a question!!!

[Braveman]

Is anyone else ready for 'Stone Cold' Rashad Austin? I want 'Austin 3:16' shirts and chants of 'Austin, Austin, Austin' ringing throughout Carver next year!

Don't give the pa guy any ideas?? Zach attack makes me puke every time i hear it...

[BradleyBrave]

Is anyone else ready for 'Stone Cold' Rashad Austin? I want 'Austin 3:16' shirts and chants of 'Austin, Austin, Austin' ringing throughout Carver next year!

Don't give the pa guy any ideas?? Zach attack makes me puke every time i hear it...

Hopefully you'll never have to hear it again. :)

[Mikovio]

Is anyone else ready for 'Stone Cold' Rashad Austin? I want 'Austin 3:16' shirts and chants of 'Austin, Austin, Austin' ringing throughout Carver next year!

Don't give the pa guy any ideas?? Zach attack makes me puke every time i hear it...
Bayside is a school that's cool and you know that it's true! (know that it's true!) :lol:

[georgethedog]

mexicobufan wrote:
The kid reminds me somewhat of Mike Williams as far as build???


"Your memory must not be very good. Mike was much bigger, taller and his shoulders were significantly broader. The only resemblance between the two would be that they both have arms, legs, a head and a torso. I'm not trying to take anything away from a kid that looks to be a perfect fit for our team, but Mike Williams? Thanks for the early morning laugh and have some more Kool-Aide!"

If you will notice I put two question marks after my statement because when Mike played at BU I was young enough that everyone looked big to me. I dont know if its the waiting on the NCAA bid or what but some folks seem a little tense. I am glad I made you laugh but next time try to understand what a question mark means and maybe it will help you understand its a question!!!

I put a "wink" after my comments. Next time try to understand what a "wink" means before you get upset at a response. Since we cannot see each other, some posts can seem to be too harsh or out of context. I got mad at a response Tornado gave to one of my posts the other day and I should not have because he did not mean it to be mean-spirited. To make it known that I was just having some fun I put the "wink" icon there so you would know it was all in fun. Sorry if I offended you. I'll take someone like Tolliver as I believe DaCoach mentioned he was built like. (Bad sentence structure, huh?)

[tornado]

I stood right next to Rashad Austin when he visited here for a Bradley game, and I talked very briefly with him.
He had a baggy sweatshirt/hoodie so I obviously couldn't see his muscle development, but here is my description....and I think it'll match Da Coach's.

I thought Rashad could very well be a body-double for Jason Faulknor, but maybe a smidgen bigger.
I judged him to be 6'8 and fairly strong, not an ounce of fat on him.


Here are a couple recent pics of Rashad
He is listed several places as 240 lb, and nobody on BU's roster currently (except Sam Singh) is over 225 lb.

http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/955221.jpeg http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/892801.jpeg http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/285346.jpeg http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/m-baskbl/auto_action/285356.jpeg http://graphics.fansonly.com/photos/schools/nejc/sports/genrel/auto_headshot/666296.jpeg http://6news.kusports.com/art/apps/pennynews/1084185581_invite.jpg

[real fan]

He sounds like the type of player we need; a good rebounder and has the ability to score; we don"t need a center that is a big scorer but one that is a threat so it opens up our guards a lot more when you have a good post player.

[tornado]

Here is an interesting comment from Rashad Austin's head coach...
That the guy keeping stats at that last game failed to credit Rashad with numerous rebounds...

When he viewed the game film, Rashad really had 28 points/17 rebounds.

http://www.journal-advocate.com/articles/2007/03/09/news/sports/sports1.txt

“Rashad carried us through the tournament,” Trenkle said. ...if you watch the film...
he actually had a 28-point, 17 rebound performance."

[real fan]

what are our chances with him as everyone thought Sikes was coming here and then ended up at Cincy.

[Da Coach]

Right now, there is not an available scholarship. But every year 1 or 2 open up unexpectedly, so I would expect the liklihood to be high that Bradley will continue to recruit and offer a scholarship to a juco player like Austin. But they are recruiting other kids, too.

[dogsrus]

what are our chances with him as everyone thought Sikes was coming here and then ended up at Cincy.

We knew Sikes was being courted by Cincy also......BU was on em hard...reeeeeaallll hard but I don't think anyuone thought it was a lock.

Wonder if he wishes he would have came here? At least we are still going to be playing. Didn't see him but a few times. Not sure how good he was.

[Da Coach]

Sikes was a true power forward-type. He was bigger and stronger than Salley. Cincinnati had some games where he was their best player, but he was not always consistent. But he could have helped Brdley a lot this year, IMO.

[bert notorius]

LINK (http://www.pjstar.com/php/index.php?/news/bradley_basketball_signs_big_jc_player/)

[Big Mike]

Does that make this the "OFFICIAL GOOD NEWS THREAD?" :-o :lol:

[Big Mike]

This is the guy I wanted....good #'s and good size! :D YES! :mrgreen:

[Da Coach]

That didn't take long! It was known since this afternoon that Rashad had committed. He reconsidering his and his father's desire to play in California and ecided he would be happiest at Bradley.

This is a great signing!

Rashad Austin was Jim Les' first choice among the junior college kids he targeted. And though he later focused more on Wade Knapp and Charlie Coley, I am sure he is much happier with Austin than with either of those others.

Austin gives Bradley what they need most, a skilled power forward type who is good defensively and who has a very good scoring touch. Rashad had some games of 20-30 points in the juco tournament last month. Among the juco players Bradley was pursuing, Rashad is the best kid for defending players like Randall Falker, and Eric Coleman, along with the big guys Michigan and other opponents will throw at us.

We all remember Marcus Sikes, who was JL's #1 recruiting target last year. Well, Rashad is similar and as good at Marcus Sikes. This is a great signing, and a perfect compliment to this recruiting class.

Rashad Austin was a 3-star recruit out of high school who had most of the Pac 10 after him--
http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=2&pr_key=22287

More from an earlier thread on Rashad Austin--
http://www.bradleyfans.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=6217

[newBUfan]

he was the one it all started out with. complete full circle. great job by the staff.

[Garland 22]

This is the guy I wanted....good #'s and good size! :D YES! :mrgreen:

I think this is a very good pickup this late in the game.

[Da Coach]

More links

Bio from his juco site--
http://gonjc.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/austin_rashad00.html

High school sites--
http://www.maxpreps.com/FanPages/Player.mxp/AthleteID- (http://www.maxpreps.com/FanPages/Player.mxp/AthleteID-4b2beb2f-4d73-4bf5-af4b-2967ade39525/SchoolID-c459af5a-4705-4543-9d86-e66bb29831c2/Boys_Varsity_Basketball_Winter_04-05/California/AreaID-8e11e7d4-d3fa-4e6f-827f-652c29439d27
)

http://www.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/stories/092605aaa.html

http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=2&pr_key=22287

Some rankings had Rashad as a Top 100 player out of high school. Here is an old HoopscoopOnline listing of 2005 high school players. This ranking has Rashad Austin at #130 nationally.--
http://www.hoopscooponline.com/members/classof2005-february2004-hstp.html

[ER3]

This is great news!
Congrats to JL and the staff for their work to get Rashad!
So now we have a 6'8" JUCO, a 6'9" Freshman, a 6'10" Freshman, and a 7'0" JUCO in the incoming recruiting class...to go along with the return of 6'7" Ray Brown...
I think it is safe to say that we should not be seeing any of those games where we get destroyed on the boards in the next couple years...I think the 4 guard offense is likely on the back burner as well...

[bravesonly]

wow, great news...i have to admit i totally forgot about this guy with all the recent "happenings" at BU but this is a great get, is it next season yet???

[MacabreMob]

Welcome Rashad!

Good luck on the Hilltop!

[houstonbrave]

Add on 6-7 Matt Salley and 6-9 Sam Singh and we have a strong inside presence to go along with some great perimeter players.... a great success for JL and the staff. Maybe we were all getting a bit too worried too quickly. Congrats and welcome to Rashad. We now have OUR 2007-8 team....just under 6 months until practice starts (geez that sounds like a long time).

[Braves4Life]

Amen! Our prayers have been answered! I agree with Da Coach; Austin is a much better fit for this team than Coley and some of the other "athletics" we were recruiting. They may have had slightly more raw athletic ability, but Austin is the kind of animal we really needed. Wow! 240 lbs!!!

I said a while back we need to find a 250 lb. animal and we did! Welcome Rashad! :D :D :D :D :D 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)

[Braves4Life]

This is the guy I wanted....good #'s and good size! :D YES! :mrgreen:

I think this is a very good pickup this late in the game.


This would have been a good pick up if he was the first to commit (which he could have been had he made his mind up to leave CA earlier)

[Big Mike]

as rumors go :-o ........RA seemed to mesh with the players during his visit.....at least better than cc or wk.........so it all worked out for the better! :D

[bravesonly]

Amen! Our prayers have been answered! I agree with Da Coach; Austin is a much better fit for this team than Coley and some of the other "athletics" we were recruiting. They may have had slightly more raw athletic ability, but Austin is the kind of animal we really needed. Wow! 240 lbs!!!

I said a while back we need to find a 250 lb. animal and we did! Welcome Rashad! :D :D :D :D :D 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)

i would love to see this kid in the weight room. i bet he throws some serious weights around. he's gonna be a monster under the boards for us next year.

[amckillip]

LINK (http://www.pjstar.com/php/index.php?/news/bradley_basketball_signs_big_jc_player/)

I didn't realize he chose of NMSU, I'd say that says something...

[Braves4Life]

LINK (http://www.pjstar.com/php/index.php?/news/bradley_basketball_signs_big_jc_player/)

I didn't realize he chose of NMSU, I'd say that says something...

What? What does it say? I don't follow :?

[MacabreMob]

LINK (http://www.pjstar.com/php/index.php?/news/bradley_basketball_signs_big_jc_player/)

I didn't realize he chose of NMSU, I'd say that says something...

What? What does it say? I don't follow :?

From the article:

"Austin chose BU over New Mexico State."

[Beninator]

I like this signing. Welcome to the Hilltop Rashad!

[Braves4Life]

LINK (http://www.pjstar.com/php/index.php?/news/bradley_basketball_signs_big_jc_player/)

I didn't realize he chose of NMSU, I'd say that says something...

What? What does it say? I don't follow :?

From the article:

"Austin chose BU over New Mexico State."

Yea, I know. But is that supposed to mean something? I consider BU a much stronger program than NMSU :o

[shaunguth]

wow, great news...i have to admit i totally forgot about this guy with all the recent "happenings" at BU but this is a great get, is it next season yet???
On the same spreadsheet I've been keeping my scholarship grid, I have a list of possibles....after deleting Coley and Knapp, this is what it looked like.

Theron Wilson 6-5, 190 SF Liberal, KS (Seward County Community College)

Andre Gilbert 6-7 G/F Mt. San Jacinto, CA (Mt. San Jacinto Junior College)

Rashad Austin 6-7, 230 F Northeastern Junior College

Sean Smith 6-6, 215 SF Vincennes, IN (Vincennes University)

By the way, I had three of them highlighted...Coley, Knapp, and Austin. Great get with this kid!

[BuBraves55]

so this officially wraps up the 2007 recruiting class right?

[shaunguth]

Yeah.....now what are we supposed to do?

[Big Mike]

as far as we know? :-o :lol: By the way.....where is dogs......I thought this is what he wanted...a signed big boy? :? He must be in bed after all the negative post wore him down......... :-o :mrgreen:

[Big Mike]

You guys seem to forget :oops: .......now we concentrate on a new asst coach....who can asst on the recruiting! :D 8)

[MacabreMob]

LINK (http://www.pjstar.com/php/index.php?/news/bradley_basketball_signs_big_jc_player/)

I didn't realize he chose of NMSU, I'd say that says something...

What? What does it say? I don't follow :?

From the article:

"Austin chose BU over New Mexico State."

Yea, I know. But is that supposed to mean something? I consider BU a much stronger program than NMSU :o

Sorry B4L. I thought maybe you couldn't get the link. After re-reading our posts, I really sound like a wiseguy. Please don't bully me around.

But in regards to amckillip comment of it meaning something... maybe amckillip means Rashad is not all 'that' since we only beat out NMSU.

IMO, I think Rashad is a great addition to this team and look forward to him playing for Bradley.

[dogsrus]

as far as we know? :-o :lol: By the way.....where is dogs......I thought this is what he wanted...a signed big boy? :? He must be in bed after all the negative post wore him down......... :-o :mrgreen:

I'm an *****...but a happy one :lol: . Go JL...NICE job. Welcome Rashad.

[BUBraves06]

This is great news, looks like we got who JL wanted all along. On the other hand, what are we going to do now. The search for a new assistant can only go so far ...

[Stryker]

wow, now that recruiting is done, at least we think so, it feels like the draft is over and we have entered the dull drums of summer, with nothing to watch but golf and NBA "superstars" duking it out.

I really can not wait until next season. I really think we are going to be good, and I am praying the DW gets it together and makes it to Bradley.

[OrangeandBlack74]

I really can not wait until next season. I really think we are going to be good, and I am praying the DW gets it together and makes it to Bradley.

I believe we will see DW in a BU uniform next year.

Not a BOOK IT just yet.....but a good feeling nonetheless! :)

I believe DW will make us all forget about CC and the others who chose to go a different path.

And welcome to the hilltop Rashad!!! :D

[Da Coach]

It's been posted elsewhere, but those who haven't seen these, here are Rashad Austin's stats this season at Northeastern Junior College, of Sterling, Colorado.--

http://njcaa.org/schmain.cfm?sid=4&divid=1&gender=m&slid=2&menu=11&cid=1655&seasonselect=347&schmenu=4&teamid=56296

13.1 points per game
7.9 rebounds per game (lead team)
1.4 assists per game
1.0 steal per game
59.0% field goal percentage
50% on 3-pointers (he was just 1 for 2 for the year)
67.5% free throw percentage

The Plainsmen of NJC were a deep team, and Austin did not play a lot of minutes. They also had several other Division prospects who avaerged between 11 and 13 points, so Rashad's duties were not necessariloy to score a lot, though he had some games in the high 20's.

[Da Coach]

Hoopmasters has the story--
http://hoopmasters.com/


This is a clip of what is said--
Jim Les and his Bradley staff have added a quality junior college inside talent in 6-foot 7 Rashad Austin...

"Rashad has good size and really good athleticism,” Bradley head coach Jim Les told Hoopmasters. “He's really skilled and is very versatile. He's a winner who we are really excited to have joining our program.”

Rashad Austin averaged 13.1 points and 7.9 rebounds. He led the Colorado juco to a 34-2 record and a trip to the NJCAA Nationals.

He is a skilled face up type power player who can score on blocks or pop jumper to 17-feet. He can create shot off dribble and finishes in traffic. He is efficient, hitting 59% from the field this past season.

He chose Bradley over his other finalist New Maxico State.

[BradleyBrave]

Welcome Rashad! Now I don't have to give all of my red "Austin 3:16" shirts to the Salvation Army.

Seriously...some were getting hung up on us losing recruiting battles. We just won one with this kid. Some may balk at New Mexico St until they realize that Jim Les outrecruited fellow former NBA player Reggie Theus for Austin. Theus turned around a team that lost 24 games just 3 years ago and took them to the tournament this year. He landed a top 150 guy last year. He is a very strong recruiting adversary, and BU fans should feel proud that we won that recruiting battle.

Raise the bar right now...it's time to start targeting an MVC title in the next 1-2 years. I want it this year, I demand it in the next 2. We've got the guards and now the size to play with anyone in America. Yes...America. Now it's just a matter of getting it to mesh. It may take the non-con, but I think we'll be as strong as anyone by the time St. Louis rolls around. Coach...it's time for the countdown....

[CABUFan]

He sounds like he could be a great get.

Here's a 2004 article that listed schools recruiting Rashad Austin as including Kansas, Arizona, USC and Louisville:

http://6news.kusports.com/news/mens_hoop_recruiting/story/110532

[Big Mike]

http://www.pjstar.com/stories/042407/BRA_BD18ED6B.080.php

[dogsrus]

Welcome Rashad! Now I don't have to give all of my red "Austin 3:16" shirts to the Salvation Army.

Seriously...some were getting hung up on us losing recruiting battles. We just won one with this kid. Some may balk at New Mexico St until they realize that Jim Les outrecruited fellow former NBA player Reggie Theus for Austin. Theus turned around a team that lost 24 games just 3 years ago and took them to the tournament this year. He landed a top 150 guy last year. He is a very strong recruiting adversary, and BU fans should feel proud that we won that recruiting battle.

Raise the bar right now...it's time to start targeting an MVC title in the next 1-2 years. I want it this year, I demand it in the next 2. We've got the guards and now the size to play with anyone in America. Yes...America. Now it's just a matter of getting it to mesh. It may take the non-con, but I think we'll be as strong as anyone by the time St. Louis rolls around. Coach...it's time for the countdown....


I agree....great job JL. I REALLY wish we had a Canada trip for these guys to jell. Don't look for a Midnite madness as JL will want all the practice time he can get...just a guess.

Whats impressive about Rashads signing is getting him to travel that far for his playing days AGAINST dads wishes. Maybe JL can get a game against a Pac ten or Theus's boys so dad can watch...or perhaps when we are a 3 seed and sent out west he can catch a game :lol:

[romar]

http://www.pjstar.com/stories/042407/BRA_BD18ED6B.080.php

Two things caught my eye in this article - 1) Another recruit says he's coming to BU because they were on him the longest. Say's alot about the coaching staff's eye for talent and continuity.

2) "we're probably done..." ??? - Wasn't sure what to make of that except maybe saying, we're done unless DW doesn't qualify.

[tornado]

Here are my comments on Rashad Austin.

When every aspect of his game is taken into account, I think he was AND is the best player BU could have gotten with this scholarship, and I am convinced (and those of you who have been getting my e mails know this from private communication) that he is better than Coley or Knapp, and every bit as good as any recruit that any Valley team has this year.
He may not be as "athletic" or as experienced in the "5" position as some of the others, but he is solid and can play the game.
Da Coach noted Rashad had some 30 point outings, but he also had many ,many double digit rebound outings, too.
He still has the Mater Dei High Schhol record for rebounds in one game!
http://www.bradleyfans.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=6846
http://www.bradleyfans.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=6217

That 2nd link notes that Rashad was a Top 100 recruit in HS and rated as high as #42 in the nation.


If you guys are interested, here are numerous older articles on Rashad Austin going all the way back to 2003.
Some are premium, but I can get them all, so let me know if you want to see any.
http://search.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=4&cfg=null&c=1&search=1&sskey=%22Rashad+Austin%22&sssiteid=-1
http://search.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=4&cfg=null&c=2&search=1&sskey=%22Rashad+Austin%22&sssiteid=-1

I'd still love to see Demetrius Young here...

[shaunguth]

http://www.pjstar.com/stories/042407/BRA_BD18ED6B.080.php

Two things caught my eye in this article - 1) Another recruit says he's coming to BU because they were on him the longest. Say's alot about the coaching staff's eye for talent and continuity.

2) "we're probably done..." ??? - Wasn't sure what to make of that except maybe saying, we're done unless DW doesn't qualify.
1) I took a couple of the other quotes to show this kid will fit in here......."He's a very unselfish kid, which is probably his biggest fault"......."at his size those are conferences he can walk right in and play (the post). He was smart to make that decision"......."He's a very loyal kid".

2) I think at the point we would know for sure if DW doesn't qualify, I would rather pocket that scholarship for 2008. Personally, I'd rather not think about him not qualifying anymore and look forward to seeing him on the CA floor in front of sold-out crowds. :D

[thefish7]

Yeah, I'm also no longer interested in speculating on DW's status. He's a player I'm really excited about and I hope he makes it. If he doesn't let's just roll that scholarship over to 08. I want all 13 players on the roster, but if 12 is all we have, I think we'll be fine.

[Big Mike]

Chicago Hoops........http://www.chicagohoops.com/articles1/rashadaustin.html

[bdrocr]

does anyone know if DW is gpoing to make grades or is JL still recruiting just in case?

[Big Mike]

As of what we hear....the staff is planning on DW doing what it takes in summer school (ICC) to join the others on the hilltop! :wink:

[bdrocr]

does he fit this class? will he be able to take the discipline handed out byb the staff?

[Big Mike]

I cannot answer any of those questions......only time will tell....and I for one will be hoping for the best! :wink:

[Da Coach]

ChicagoHoops.com has an article about Bradley signing Rashad Austin--
Head Coach Jim Les, And The Bradley Braves Add 6-7 Juco Stud Rashad Austin To Their 2007 Recruiting Haul
http://www.chicagohoops.com/articles1/rashadaustin.html

The article refers to Rashad--
Head coach Jim Les, and the Bradley University Braves have landed Rashad Austin of Northeast (CO) Community College. Austin, who ranks among the top junior college prospects in the country, led a Northeast team that finished off the season with a record of 34-2.

Austin, who stands 6-7, is a highly versatile post who gets things done both inside and outside. Austin is a strong finisher, and rebounder inside who also has the ability to put the ball on the floor.