2008 BU committment- Darian Norris - 5'11

[UrbanLegend07]

The recruit in town today is Darian Norris, a 5'11 180lb point guard from Las Vegas. Previously, Norris had signed a LOI with South Carolina State. He received his release this winter.

[Big Mike]

http://scouthoops.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=8&c=1&nid=2667097

I find this interesting...while most hope for a Big or scorer.....we bring in another p/g? I wonder if someone is not coming back...no way the last and only ride would go to another p/g.....right?

[OrangeandBlack74]

http://scouthoops.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=8&c=1&nid=2667097

I find this interesting...while most hope for a Big or scorer.....we bring in another p/g? I wonder if someone is not coming back...no way the last and only ride would go to another p/g.....right?

Not just a p/g, but a frosh p/g at that...

Not sure why the staff would want two frosh p/g's to come in with the same class, unless one is going to r/s.

[lake Camelot]

I would think the possiblities are a player could leave or new recruit doesn't qualify? Even if a player were to leave I would think SM,DD and Mccain would be enough to handle the point guard position. Last time I was this confused was when we got TCS and it soon turned out there was no Daniel West or Jeremy Fears or Dwight Buycks.

[pfunk880]

hmmmm....

[MacabreMob]

Hey - maybe he is a package deal. Get him, find him a schollie for cross country, and then land a big friend of his.

I have no idea - but the ship isn't taking on water. So we can all relax.

;)

[BradleyBrave]

Welcome to Peoria and Bradley, I hope you enjoy your time here. :-D

[BU Firsty]

Great kid....very nice and personable. We would all love this guy.

Why think "point" guard? What if we had three guards that were all capable of handling the ball, distributing the ball, shooting, and playing on-the-ball defense? I think teams might have to match up with us - and few could - if we had SM, EM, and DN all on the floor.

Regardless, I trust our coaching staff.

[Da Coach]

Regardless, I trust our coaching staff.


Ditto.

[Big Mike]

http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=2&pr_key=54190

http://nevadaprepreport.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=776158

http://lvsportsmagazine.com/content/view/615/488/

http://www.lvrj.com/sports/11735476.html

http://scstate.blogspot.com/2007/08/scsu-hoops-nabs-norris.html

http://www.lvrj.com/sports/15626532.html

http://www.fullctpress.net/page/page/4472816.htm

http://thetandd.com/blogs/?p=508

http://lasvegashoopreport.com/

http://www.drawingboard.simplysmartwebs.com/page/page/4209095.htm

[BradleyBrave]

Darian Norris is a 2009 recruit, not 2008. It says in this article that he will be attending a prep school next year and will be forming a new list of schools.

http://nevadaprepreport.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=776158

[Big Mike]

http://www.goupstate.com/article/20080410/PSPORTS02/790089174/-1/psports

BB....he would still be a 2008 recruit if he signs with a D1 team while still attending h/s as a Sr.!

[Da Coach]

I have confirmed that Darian Norris is visiting Bradley. After searching for info about him, the bottom line is that this kid is really good. I am not sure why he is still uncommitted. But any time you can get a kid of this quality, you go for it.

http://www.lvrj.com/sports/17456149.html
Darian Norris almost had his flight set, his bags packed and his foot out the door.
Then he realized one important fact -- South Carolina is just a bit too far from home.
The Mojave guard and Sunset Region boys basketball Most Valuable Player was recently released from his letter of intent to South Carolina State, reopening his recruiting status.
"Different things started happening there on the educational and athletic side," said Norris, who wouldn't discuss specifics. "I didn't want to go down there so far from home into that situation."
Instead, he might be heading to Peoria, Ill.
Norris will visit Bradley this weekend for an official visit, as the Braves have joined Wright State, George Mason and UC Riverside in recruiting Norris


Here are a few more links--

3-star recruit on Rivals--
http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=2&pr_key=54190

http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=910&CID=550798

In this article he says he is a full qualifier--
http://nevadaprepreport.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=776158

http://www.lvrj.com/sports/15626532.html

http://scstate.blogspot.com/2007/07/here-is-article-on-our-newest-bulldog.html

http://bracketbattles.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=1161&CID=549701

Hoopscoop rankings of 2008 recruits- Darian Norris is #220.
Note Wes Witherspoon is #212; SIU's top recruit Torres Rountree is #312, and Mr. Basketball in Illinois, Kevin Dillard is #447--
http://www.hoopscooponline.com/members/classof2008-topjuniors-fall2006.asp

[shaunguth]

I have confirmed that Darian Norris is visiting Bradley. After searching for info about him, the bottom line is that this kid is really good. I am not sure why he is still uncommitted. But any time you can get a kid of this quality, you go for it.


I couldn't agree more Coach! I've come to the conclusion, after reading the above articles on DN, that his game is scary close to that of a certain point guard that did rather well here for the past four years!

Would love to get a verbal this weekend.

[Big Mike]

DN sounds like a very special player to me....and if interested a must get player IMO! :wink:

[oilerpimp]

Hoopscoop (http://Hoopscoop) rankings of 2008 recruits- Darian Norris is #220.
Note Wes Witherspoon is #212; SIU's top recruit Torres Rountree is #312, and Mr. Basketball in Illinois, Kevin Dillard is #447--
http://www.hoopscooponline.com/members/classof2008-topjuniors-fall2006.asp


#129 and #220 in the same backcourt?....Umm...Yeah, I'll take it!!!:-D

[mexicobufan]

Who was 129?

[Da Coach]

Eddren McCain was #129.

[tornado]

In the latest rankings after McCain led his team to the state title
McCain is now #97 ranked




Not sure why the staff would want two frosh p/g's to come in with the same class, unless one is going to r/s.

Hmmm...does anyone remember what our record was when our starting PG was out?
Can it hurt to have depth at this position?

[dogsrus]

[QUOTE=tornado;78623]In the latest rankings after McCain led his team to the state title
McCain is now #97 ranked





Someone ought to tell hoopscoop that..they still have him at 129......

[tornado]

Their new premium report eliminates the 5th year prep seniors (and lists them separately), so Eddren moves up

[BuBraves55]

this would be EPIC

[dogsrus]

[QUOTE=tornado;78623]In the latest rankings after McCain led his team to the state title
McCain is now #97 ranked





Someone ought to tell hoopscoop that..they still have him at 129......


http://www.hoopscooponline.com/membe...s-fall2006.asp

[dogsrus]

this would be EPIC


explain please....

[thefish7]

Well, welcome to Peoria. Wish the weather was a bit better! :)

[lake Camelot]

I can't imagine a much worse weather weekend to try to impress a kid who is from Vegas.

[BUconnorD]

Hmmm...does anyone remember what our record was when our starting PG was out?
Can it hurt to have depth at this position?

well said T,

ok...then what does are starting lineup look like?

i would LOOOVE to have depth in the PG position, but I also want to have a well rounded team...

[VeveJones007]

I think Will Franklin and Tony Bennett showed that you can have success playing the 2 guard at only around 6 feet tall, so we can rotate players between the two spots with all our point guards.

[Rusty 54]

I think Will Franklin and Tony Bennett showed that you can have success playing the 2 guard at only around 6 feet tall, so we can rotate players between the two spots with all our point guards.

You have to have size to go along with your point guards if they are about 6 feet

[georgethedog]

I still think that Coach Les would fill a roster with PGs if he could get away with it. Everything else being equal (talent, game knowledge, etc.) Coach Les would choose to play a guard over a big. You may not like it (and I am may be the only one who thinks this) but that is my opinion.

[mrcoachdude]

Two thoughts:

1. Get the best player you can. Every time.
2. JL must know something we do not.

[georgethedog]

Two thoughts:

1. Get the best player you can. Every time.
2. JL must know something we do not.


#1 is wrong based upon needs. #2 I hope is right. (I am not trying to start an argument)

[Beninator]

Two thoughts:

1. Get the best player you can. Every time.
2. JL must know something we do not.

Strongly believe point 2 is correct here.... it would explain a lot of things....

[mrcoachdude]

#1 is wrong based upon needs. #2 I hope is right. (I am not trying to start an argument)

George...needs figure in the decision...but if you are getting the best available...needs will be filled......

[BradleyBrave]

George...needs figure in the decision...but if you are getting the best available...needs will be filled......

I disagree. If you have no bigs, and the best players available are 5'10" guards, you're not really helping your situation that much. But, I don't think our needs are that great with this last ride, so I am of the mindset of the best available 4 year player.

[Fetz86]

Key being 4 year player, imo

[mrcoachdude]

I disagree. If you have no bigs, and the best players available are 5'10" guards, you're not really helping your situation that much. But, I don't think our needs are that great with this last ride, so I am of the mindset of the best available 4 year player.

Making it to complicated here...I was trying to say in simple terms...get the best you can...if we had no bigs...would we be looking at smalls? I doubt it....I know its not that simple...but right now lets get the best player we can.....

[TheHeemyMonster]

i personally will be extremely disappointed if we use our last scholie on a 6'0 guard.

If we do, I wonder what Jim Les sees in our big men that gives him the confidence to use the last one on a guard. It didnt seem like he had any confidence in them all season considering:

Austin- didnt play at all the first half of the year, played decent in the middle of the season, then didnt play at all again at the end of the season. No confidence by Jim there it doesnt seem like

Singh- Dont have the stats with me but I dont think Sam even played in about 1/4 of the games this year. I know the kid has been hurt but I dont think he can dunk and he is 6'9. Pretty smart player, nice kid, however if I had the power to take his scholie away I would

Egolf- played early in the year and didnt show much. Spends way to much time behind the 3 point line considering he didnt make one all year. I know he got hurt as well but when he came back Jim didnt show much confidence in playing him any major minutes. Still another year away IMO

Collins- I dont think anyone know what Jim acually thinks of Collins. Played pretty well in the begininig of the year, a little slow on D and a little weak on O but still played well enough to get some time IMO. Then JL sits him for a 1/2 a season. Then JL decides to play him towards the end of the season and he looks the best he has all year. It seems like finally Jim has confidence in Collins but then again I though he did early in the year before he didnt play again for 10 games straight.

Thompson- I havent been to practice to watch this kid play but I would think JL has to believe that this kid will be an impact player next year with Collins if he uses the last scholie on another guard. If that is the case we can use the 4-guard lineup again with either Collins/Thompson starting at the 5, Wilson at the 4, and Warren Maniscalco and either one of the new JUCO transfers.

[BUconnorD]

George...needs figure in the decision...but if you are getting the best available...needs will be filled......

Don't think that's true.

USC got OJ Mayo (one of the best players out there) didn't really help them out in the tournament because they were not as well rounded.

IMO...a well rounded team beats a superstar any day of the week.

[Da Coach]

I still think that Coach Les would fill a roster with PGs if he could get away with it. Everything else being equal (talent, game knowledge, etc.) Coach Les would choose to play a guard over a big. You may not like it (and I am may be the only one who thinks this) but that is my opinion.

I understand your point, but this is a bit overstated. Jim Les could play all guards any time, but he never does it. He knows there has to be some size and inside players on the floor. But if he feels he has a better team on the floor with 3 guards, then that's his job to do it.

[houstonbrave]

Yeah, I hear the best available player argument and I would agree that Darian sounds like a very good player...but my concern is that without some size joining the team this year we will be left with two scholarship players over 6-5 returning in 2009-10. Those two would be AT and WE. (We would lose SS, RA, DC, TW (only sort of a big and 6-5)). So, it would leave us in a position where we would need to recruit a bunch of bigs and probably at least a couple of JUCO bigs next year. Why ? It is hard to find players that can contribute as Freshman but it is really hard to find kids who are physically developed enough to contribute at the 4/5 as a Freshman-it happens but not often.

[dogsrus]

Two thoughts:

1. Get the best player you can. Every time.
2. JL must know something we do not.


#2 is obvious...but what do you think he know SPECIFICALLY that we do not in this case....

[Beninator]

#2 is obvious...but what do you think he know SPECIFICALLY that we do not in this case....

all we have to do is look back at the past couple of years for that answer.

[mrcoachdude]

Don't think that's true.

USC got OJ Mayo (one of the best players out there) didn't really help them out in the tournament because they were not as well rounded.

IMO...a well rounded team beats a superstar any day of the week.

Next time out I will give a dissertation on what I was trying to say......I am not a man of many words ;)

simply put.....input all information into the equation (size,handles,shot,needs,athleticism etc...) and get the best player available

[MacabreMob]

IMO...a well rounded team beats a superstar any day of the week.

Larry Bird's Sycs went 33-1.

Billy Packer kept saying NO WAY Indy St makes it. Bill Hodges told Billy Packer on national tv he owed him and Indy St an apology when they made it to the Championship.

[bu fan 9]

You can get a good guard or a big that is a stiff which do you want?I want a good guard that can play. A good big man is really hard to find.

[BUconnorD]

Larry Bird's Sycs went 33-1.

Billy Packer kept saying NO WAY Indy St makes it. Bill Hodges told Billy Packer on national tv he owed him and Indy St an apology when they made it to the Championship.

a big man (like Larry Legend) is harder to contain. A guard is much easier to contain.

when Bradley played UofI last year...JC tore it up for the first half
then, Zack Andrews fouled out allowing Shaun Pruitt to cover JC and use his 4 inch advantage to shut down JC. I watched that game and it was heartbreaking to see a guard get shut down like that.

the problem was...the depth last year in the big man was VERY shallow. we went...Zack Andrews (good...big force and solid player)...Last year's Matt Salley (similar to this year...only much less experience)...Sam Singh (fresh off of an injury).

Well rounded teams win

2 years ago...
VERY well rounded team...result...Sweet 16

[dogsrus]

IF he's going the prep school route as ONE report stated WHY would he be visiting and WHY would we be looking at him?

Not questioning him OR BU just don't know what the "norm" is for guys going THAT route....again IF thats what he is doing.

[real fan]

You have to trust the coaching staff in recruiting as there are things that happen after the season that we do not know about; I always like to read what coach Les has to say about our returning players after our recruiting is over and we have a full roster for 2008-2009.

[BradleyBrave]

You can get a good guard or a big that is a stiff which do you want?I want a good guard that can play. A good big man is really hard to find.

Does that mean we should just give up looking for one?

But, as DC and others have said, I trust the staff.

[Dallas Brave]

I trust the coaching staff to make the right decision on to whom to make an offer. Some big guys have show up some time though or we will have limited success outside the Valley IMO. I think we in OK shape for next year in terms of big guys, but I'd love to see another one come in with the last scholie and red shirt him next year.

[VeveJones007]

IMO...a well rounded team beats a superstar any day of the week.

While that proved true in the NBA finals last year, it definitely wasn't the case in the Eastern Conference finals. What did Lebron have at the end to win that one game, 20+ straight points? If you don't like comparing the NBA to college hoops, then did you see Stephen Curry in the NCAA tournament this year?

[VeveJones007]

You have to have size to go along with your point guards if they are about 6 feet

I think Coach Les is banking on the fact that he also has a 6'11" AT as a freshman to go along with any possible freshman PG's we have next year.

[dogsrus]

I think Coach Les is banking on the fact that he also has a 6'11" AT as a freshman to go along with any possible freshman PG's we have next year.

Thats alot of eggs in ONE basket though......

[SFP]

I see both sides with this subject.

Villanova had a pretty good team a few years ago playing a 4 guard O. We will just have to be able to score and not count on 2 players to take the load. Next year we'll have the depth at the big position to weather foul problems unlike when ZA's senior year when he was IT!

Now if we want to be a an elite team it was apparent in the NCAA BIG athletic men are needed as well as it's nice to have a tall quick 2-3 players and with this line up our 2 will be 6'3" (DD) our 3 6'5" (AW). OUr 4 will br under sized again.

[georgethedog]

I understand your point, but this is a bit overstated. Jim Les could play all guards any time, but he never does it. He knows there has to be some size and inside players on the floor. But if he feels he has a better team on the floor with 3 guards, then that's his job to do it.

Yes, Coach, my first sentence is a overstatement I agree. I made it more of an attention getter than anything... But, I do think he favors guard play.

[mexicobufan]

Does anyone else get the feeiling that when W.E. hits one three he is going to take off? I still believe this guy will be all conference by the time he is done. If he could take off next year BU will be very good....

[lake Camelot]

I like the playing of multiple guards. I also realize we may not get the exact size makeup we want and have to take the good players we can get. I would love to play 3-4 guards that are in the 6-4 to 6-6 range. That is why I was hopeful (And still am hopeful) that Larry Anderson, Twany Beckham, Mike Burwell, Isiah Nunn, or Ryan Hare would end up here. I could see SM and AW playing with a couple other 6-5 kids. Also I am really still very hopeful of the talent we have
in Anthony Thompson, and Will E but they are both so thin that I have a hard time seeing them getting a bunch of boards. I still would rather have a 6-7 to 6-9 strong rebounder also.

[ER3]

Hoopscoop rankings of 2008 recruits- Darian Norris is #220.
Note Wes Witherspoon is #212; SIU's top recruit Torres Rountree is #312, and Mr. Basketball in Illinois, Kevin Dillard is #447--
http://www.hoopscooponline.com/members/classof2008-topjuniors-fall2006.asp

Few things here...

1. These rankings are almost two years old...The fact that Darian Norris was highly thought of in the fall of 2006 is nice, but where is he in any of the rankings for 2008?

2. Torres Roundtree is NOT SIU's top incoming recruit...Anthony Booker is.

3. Regardless of what some recruiting ranking website from September of 2006 might say, Darian Norris is not a higher rated recruit than Kevin Dillard...not a chance.

[ER3]

Does anyone else get the feeiling that when W.E. hits one three he is going to take off? I still believe this guy will be all conference by the time he is done. If he could take off next year BU will be very good....
Ummm...no.

[mexicobufan]

Be baffled all you want...I said I believe, I did not say its a fact or book it. I BELIEVE he has the ability to be very good. I could be wrong, have been many times.

[Dallas Brave]

Be baffled all you want...I said I believe, I did not say its a fact or book it. I BELIEVE he has the ability to be very good. I could be wrong, have been many times.

There is nothing wrong with being a "fan" on a "fan board" ... the elements of fan optimism combined with a positive outlook on the future seem to baffle a few regular posters.

[houstontxbrave]

I am sure Norris is a fine player whether he is ranked inside or outside of the top 100.

I though am seriously tired of watching us night in night out get out rebounded and give away multipule possessions.

If a 5 11 guard is being considered for a replacement of someone thats one thing but if a 5 11 guard is being considered for our last ride for this season I personally am not in any favor of seeing another guard added to this roster. Unless JL and staff are going to make a serious commitment this offseason and into next to do something about our lack of rebounding addressing it with the players we currently have.

[mexicobufan]

Are we recruiting anyone with size, I dont think so? That would tell you that we are going to fill the last slot with a gaurd. Anyone know of recruit that we know of that is over 6 feet 5 inches?

[Da Coach]

I am pretty certain BU will sign at least one big man (bigger than 6'6").

[ER3]

Be baffled all you want...I said I believe, I did not say its a fact or book it. I BELIEVE he has the ability to be very good. I could be wrong, have been many times.
That's fine...Everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. I just haven't seen anything in his play that would lead me to believe he is going to be as good as you believe him to be.
We'll see what adjustments he makes next year.

[CABUFan]

I am pretty certain BU will sign at least one big man (bigger than 6'6").

Since we are obviously still looking at guards, I take this to mean you think another scholarship will be opening up... Do you know something we don't?

[ER3]

There is nothing wrong with being a "fan" on a "fan board" ... the elements of fan optimism combined with a positive outlook on the future seem to baffle a few regular posters.
You can be as optimistic as you want...Simply because I don't necessarily agree with some of these optimistic assessments doesn't mean they are wrong....or that being optimistic is wrong.

[mexicobufan]

No problem here ER3, as I said I have been wrong more than right. As a Bradley fan I am sure you are pulling for me to be right?

[ER3]

No problem here ER3, as I said I have been wrong more than right. As a Bradley fan I am sure you are pulling for me to be right?
Absolutely.

[Beninator]

Be baffled all you want...I said I believe, I did not say its a fact or book it. I BELIEVE he has the ability to be very good. I could be wrong, have been many times.

fwiw, I agree with you. Will has a lot of raw talent and I hope he can use the summer to improve on things for next year.

[BUBrave28]

Remember, he had to make a lot of off-the-court adjustments this year. He came all the way from Alaska and probably has only been back once, if at all. Not to mention the other adjustments all college freshmen have to make. I think he will be more comfortable next year and be able to put all of his energy into basketball.

[brocks]

No problem here ER3, as I said I have been wrong more than right. As a Bradley fan I am sure you are pulling for me to be right?

Don't worry mexico . . . next time I see ER3, I'm gonna pin him down and force kool-aid jello shots down his throat. He'll come around.

[ER3]

Don't worry mexico . . . next time I see ER3, I'm gonna pin him down and force kool-aid jello shots down his throat. He'll come around.
Sweet, brocks...
Count me in...I'll take the jello shots willingly...:-D

[Da Coach]

Rivals has a new article up withjin the last couple minutes--
Norris set to sign--
http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?pr_key=54190&sport=2

It is a premium article. Here are a couple key clips--
Fresh off an official visit to Bradley, three-star point guard Darian Norris (http://chicagosports.rivals.com/viewprospect.asp?Sport=2&pr_key=54190) of Las Vegas (Nev.) Mojave High School is set to sign with the Braves on Wednesday.
"We were going to visit some other schools but after what Darian saw this weekend, he knows that Bradley is a perfect fit," said Norris' father Walter Norris. "The academics are impressive with small classes and top notch instruction. They also have a great coaching staff, and we're very impressed with Coach Les. He was a point guard and has NBA experience. The coaching at Bradley is great, and it's a good system for Darian."


Welcome the newest Bradley Brave, Darian Norris.
Can anyone recall if Bradley has had any previous players from Las Vegas?

[bugregshu]

Welcome to BU Darian!!!

[Da Coach]

It sounds like he was blown away with his visit to Bradley this past weekend. Very similar to the things that Chris Roberts said after he visited. Good job by the coaching staff!

[MacabreMob]

Welcome Darian!

Good luck on the Hilltop!

[Dubl R 1]

Welcome to BU and Peoria Darian!

[Dubl R 1]

Hey DC, is he going to be class of 2008 or is he going to a prep school like some have stated.

[Da Coach]

No prep school. He will sign a LOI Wednesday. That means he is committed to BU for 2008.

[Dubl R 1]

Sooooo, barring anyone leaving from this year's current team, we are out of scholarships right?

[MacabreMob]

Can anyone recall if Bradley has had any previous players from Las Vegas?


Didn't we have a player commit from Nevada that was like 6'9" but then he de-committed for some reason - a few years ago?

[tornado]

Lee Biddlecome committed then never showed at BU and ended up at juco in Wyoming.

[ER3]

Are we leaving the Valley and joining a newly-formed 6' and under conference?:p
Norris sounds like he's a good athlete...hopefully he'll be a good one for the Braves. It will be interesting to see how Les is able to get minutes for all of these small guards we now have on our roster.

[tornado]

This gives Bradley TWO incoming kids ranked inside the Top 250 by well known recruiting gurus.

but if you eliminate the ones ahead of Eddren who are prep schoolers and already graduated (like Beas Hamga) then
everyone moves up 20 or so places....as the rest are true freshmen.

[thefish7]

Welcome, Darian!

[J Money]

Someone's gotta redshirt right? Norris, McCain, Roberts, Maniscalco, TCS, Dunson....we'd be in good shape if they lengthened the games to 30 minute halves.

[dogsrus]

Are we leaving the Valley and joining a newly-formed 6' and under conference?:p
Norris sounds like he's a good athlete...hopefully he'll be a good one for the Braves. It will be interesting to see how Les is able to get minutes for all of these small guards we now have on our roster.


Roberts is 6'4...DD is 6'3..... Sam, Norris and McCain are under 6'. Odd man out (hopefully not if he can make strides) is our TCS. I STILL think the kid will be OK though.

JL will have an option to RS someone if needed.

[Beninator]

Are we leaving the Valley and joining a newly-formed 6' and under conference?:p
Norris sounds like he's a good athlete...hopefully he'll be a good one for the Braves. It will be interesting to see how Les is able to get minutes for all of these small guards we now have on our roster.

good one er3... we need the flubber recipe asap.:p have to figure there is somthing more going on....

welcome to BU Darian.

[Da Coach]

Didn't we have a player commit from Nevada that was like 6'9" but then he de-committed for some reason - a few years ago?

Yes, there was a 6'9" kid, but he was from Reno, Nevada.
His name will come to me soon. He spent the summer on campus and worked Coach Mo's camps. Then he got homesick and went home. He ended up at Cheyenne Junior College for 2 years, then disappeared.

[BradleyBrave]

Yes, there was a 6'9" kid, but he was from Reno, Nevada.
His name will come to me soon. He spent the summer on campus and worked Coach Mo's camps. Then he got homesick and went home. He ended up at Cheyenne Junior College for 2 years, then disappeared.

Lee Biddlecome

[Da Coach]

Sooooo, barring anyone leaving from this year's current team, we are out of scholarships right?

That is correct. No more available scolarships.

[Da Coach]

Lee Biddlecome

That's it. Good memory, BB.

I recall he was rated the 5th best center in the West by one recruiting service. We'll never know. But the fact that he never played D1 ball, that I can find, suggests that he wouldn't have been a major factor if he had stayed at Bradley.

[mike radigan]

Yes, there was a 6'9" kid, but he was from Reno, Nevada.
His name will come to me soon. He spent the summer on campus and worked Coach Mo's camps. Then he got homesick and went home. He ended up at Cheyenne Junior College for 2 years, then disappeared.

Already answered except I THINK Biddlecome was from Carson City.

Lee Biddlecome committed then never showed at BU and ended up at juco in Wyoming.

[BUBrave28]

Welcome Darian!!! Looks to me like we snagged a top PG from out west. I have heard that he is a pretty good defender, which is nice.

I think that this points to someone (a guard) leaving to open a place for a big. If that does not happen I fully expect SOMEONE to redshirt. Which brings me to a question, do JUCO tranfers ever redshirt? We are 5 or 6 deep at guard and that is a good problem to have, and we have a lot of options on what exactly we do.

I'm still worried that we need at least one additional big man. But, this move might go to show how confident the staff is that AT will have an immediate impact.

[MacabreMob]

Hmmmm.... so we could wind up playing in the LV Trny or a home-n-home with UNLV in the future?

[dogsrus]

Already answered except I THINK Biddlecome was from Carson City.


There was another kid though wasn't there...he actually played in the R/W or some game at the FH. Wasn't he from out west...got homesick and transfered, I thought, to a southern school.

Maybe it WAS Biddlecome but I thought there was another kid....

[mike radigan]

There was another kid though wasn't there...he actually played in the R/W or some game at the FH. Wasn't he from out west...got homesick and transfered, I thought, to a southern school.

Maybe it WAS Biddlecome but I thought there was another kid....


Biddlecome never showed for whatever reason.

[Da Coach]

Already answered except I THINK Biddlecome was from Carson City.

It's all coming back to me now....you are correct. It was carson City, not Reno.

But was there no others from Las Vegas?

The only Valley player in recent memory from Las Vegas is P'Allen Stinnett. I am sure Norris must be quite familiar with Stinnett, though they attended different high schools.

[BradleyBrave]

Welcome to BU Darian!

[ER3]

This gives Bradley TWO incoming kids ranked inside the Top 250 by well known recruiting gurus.

but if you eliminate the ones ahead of Eddren who are prep schoolers and already graduated (like Beas Hamga) then
everyone moves up 20 or so places....as the rest are true freshmen.
What is this top 250 list that Eddren and Darian are both on? I know there was an outdated top 250 from the fall of 2006 that had them both on it (hoopscoop, I think)...Just wondered what this current list was...

[Dallas Brave]

Can't win without good guard play :)

If I was an unsigned big guy, I would get to BU as quickly as possible in order to be the guy on the receiving end of playing with outstanding guards! ;)

[mexicobufan]

Is this not exactly last springs signing period all over again, who is coming, who is staying, who is going? The spring signing period at BU has become interesting to say the least!!!!! Lets forget the post about starting lineups for next year for a while, who knows who to pick from!!!

Hey, its interesting at least!!!!!!!!

[lake Camelot]

Yea well I had Rashad Austin in the starting lineup last year. I think I'll skip that thread this year. I need to avoid future embarassment.

[Beninator]

Is this not exactly last springs signing period all over again, who is coming, who is staying, who is going? The spring signing period at BU has become interesting to say the least!!!!! Lets forget the post about starting lineups for next year for a while, who knows who to pick from!!!

Hey, its interesting at least!!!!!!!!

yeah we need to break out the song from the Clash...

should I stay or should I go....:confused:

[Braves4Life]

With all of these small, quick and talented 6'6" and under players this Bradley team is shaping up to be one of the most exciting teams to watch in America! Bradley season ticket holders should LOVE watching this team for the next several years! :)

[georgethedog]

So, we have 3 quality point guards now (no sacarsm intended)?

[Chico]

Have to agree with ER3. Looks like we have talented guards coming in, but they will all want playing time. If not, will they stick around.

[PeoriaLou]

Is that a joke?

I assume he is trying to be optimistic. I have no doubt that Norris and the others are very talented ball players, but this team needs some depth at the 4/5 position.

[squirrel]

With all of these small, quick and talented 6'6" and under players this Bradley team is shaping up to be one of the most exciting teams to watch in America! Bradley season ticket holders should LOVE watching this team for the next several years! :)

I think the expanded arc next year is going to force teams to have a good inside-out game. I wouldn't want to be a team caught without a good inside game. You can never have enough true PGs or bigs.

[georgethedog]

I think the expanded arc next year is going to force teams to have a good inside-out game. I wouldn't want to be a team caught without a good inside game. You can never have enough true PGs or bigs.

I think the 12-15 foot jump shot will be wide open.

[shaunguth]

Welcome Darian!

I'll say it again.....after reading the writeups on DN, I felt like I was reading about DR! Looking forward to seeing Darian in action!

[ER3]

So, we have 3 quality point guards now (no sacarsm intended)?
4, I think? Isn't Dunson more of a point guard? If so, that technically gives us 4 PGs in SM, DD, EM, and DN...
Although with Les' 3 or 4 guard offense that he runs, I think there really isn't much of a distinction made between point guards and shooting guards...

[Scouter]

DN sounds like a good get, but this signing worries me unless one of the guards currently on the roster leaves to free up a scholarship for a big. I'm not excited with the bigs rotation we're currently bringing back. SS and RA are serviceable but not game-changing guys, and DC, AT and WE are all unproven. The latter three guys all have potential, but that's an enormous question mark heading into next season.

[georgethedog]

4, I think? Isn't Dunson more of a point guard? If so, that technically gives us 4 PGs in SM, DD, EM, and DN...
Although with Les' 3 or 4 guard offense that he runs, I think there really isn't much of a distinction made between point guards and shooting guards...

I will continue your sentence... "Although with Les' 3 or 4 guard offense that he runs, I think there really isn't much of a distinction made between point guards and shooting guards... and the other guards on the floor."

[Big Mike]

Hey...I am excited to get Darian Norris on the hilltop for 4 years:mrgreen:.....this kid has a future and its very cool that he will become a Brave....Welcome Darian! :D

[Out of Balance]

I agree! :)

Its not funny when your sitting a CR or in front of the TV and its really happening! This can't be happening again!

[bugregshu]

I am perfectly happy with this commitment. I think there might be a chance that one of the freshman guards may redshirt, and in the case, we would have DD, a jr pg, SM, a soph pg, and then either McCain or Norris as a frosh pg, and a redshirt frosh pg.

[dogsrus]

DN sounds like a good get, but this signing worries me unless one of the guards currently on the roster leaves to free up a scholarship for a big. I'm not excited with the bigs rotation we're currently bringing back. SS and RA are serviceable but not game-changing guys, and DC, AT and WE are all unproven. The latter three guys all have potential, but that's an enormous question mark heading into next season.


I think Collins will be the surprise of the new year, me thinks it will be "Rabey-esqe" like.....I think JL is going to do what many wished he would have done THIS year. Just keep throwing him out there.

If we go with a 4 headed monster of DC, SS, RA and AT and can get 20 and 10 thats good production from the 5 spot.

[mportsch]

Sounds like a great commit for the Braves! Welcome, Darian!

[ER3]

Chill out my friend, as I was only agreeing with you! It was a funny thread.
As for next year, I hope you are right, but as book it, I don't think so!
I was only putting that reply out there as a tongue-in-cheek reference to the fact that my original attempt at humor on the topic was deleted, for some reason.
I wasn't directing it toward you...it's all good.

[ph]

So, we have 3 quality point guards now (no sacarsm intended)?

Certainly could of used 3 quality points this year.

Welcome Norris!

I just heard from a friend that the whole team was at Johnny's this weekend.
I wondered what might be up, because Jim once mentioned that Johnny's was his favorite "closing" place (the deal).

I log on, and found out it worked!

[Chico]

Dogs, let's hope not. Rabey scored a whopping 257 points in his BU career.

[Da Coach]

PJ Star article
http://www.pjstar.com/php/index.php?/sports/bradley_gets_commitment_from_guard/

[BUFAN]

Elected not to thumb through the whole thread, what is South Carolina State?

[Da Coach]

http://www.scsuathletics.com/index.asp?path=mbball&tab=mens

[BradleyBrave]

Elected not to thumb through the whole thread, what is South Carolina State?

One of the worst schools in Division I. They're in the same conference as Maryland-Eastern Shore.

[Big Mike]

http://www.chicagohoops.com/articles1/dariannorris.html

[BUFAN]

Thanks coach, how stupid of me, dah. Shoulda known, they're in the same conference as Hampton. One of Merf's finds. Thanks again.

[Big Mike]

Did anyone give credit to UrbanLegend 07 for breaking news on the recruit on campus with a name on his 1st and only post? :cool:

[Braves4Life]

Did anyone give credit to UrbanLegend 07 for breaking news on the recruit on campus with a name on his 1st and only post? :cool:


Good call Big Mike! Props UrbanLegand! We're all anxiously waiting for your next big scoop. :) :) :)

[georgethedog]

I think Collins will be the surprise of the new year, me thinks it will be "Rabey-esqe" like.....I think JL is going to do what many wished he would have done THIS year. Just keep throwing him out there.

If we go with a 4 headed monster of DC, SS, RA and AT and can get 20 and 10 thats good production from the 5 spot.

And the 4 spot will do what with who? Oh, sorry... what am I thinking? 4 guards and a 5 spot. Sounds great to me as I enjoy finishing 4-6 in the league because our team is always undersized. I need to make it a point to have lowered expectations. A friend of mine told me that lowered expectations is the key to happiness. If something good happens, you are excited; and if it does not, you already expected it, and are therefore not dissappointed. Yes, lowered expectations is the key. Just ask my wife!!! I'm just a slow learner with a steep learning curve.

[MDCowboy]

Probably Wilson and Egolf......

[georgethedog]

Probably Wilson and Egolf......

Wilson is better suited as a 2 guard, really and ideally that is what he would be on a real good team. I have talked with other coaches and that is there feeling. Egolf better light a fire under his ____ because he plays with the intensity of an old lady at a Sunday picnic. There is no place for a 4 man who plays so soft and just seems to watch things happen. Man, I'm like the message board bully tonight. Sorry...

[Braves4Life]

Norris sounds like a winner..............

http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=910&CID=550798

From 2006..............."Rarely in an individual camp do you find a point guard with scoring ability focus on running his team like Darian Norris ran his at the Pangos All American Camp.
A compact and strong physical guard, Norris controlled the ball on the defensive side. He did a nice job of pressuring the ball but not giving up penetration.

Offensively, he knocked down shots when open, yet spent most of his energy on creating shots for his teammates instead of forcing the action for himself. He played in pace with his teammates and rarely turned the ball over.

A couple high-majors are on Norris' school list, but more schools should be tracking him in July."

[georgethedog]

Time to wrap up the evening. Good night all...

[BradleyBrave]

Norris sounds like a winner..............

http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=910&CID=550798

From 2006..............."Rarely in an individual camp do you find a point guard with scoring ability focus on running his team like Darian Norris ran his at the Pangos All American Camp.
A compact and strong physical guard, Norris controlled the ball on the defensive side. He did a nice job of pressuring the ball but not giving up penetration.

Offensively, he knocked down shots when open, yet spent most of his energy on creating shots for his teammates instead of forcing the action for himself. He played in pace with his teammates and rarely turned the ball over.

A couple high-majors are on Norris' school list, but more schools should be tracking him in July."

I really want to know why this kid ended up signing a LOI with one of the nation's worst schools in one of the nation's worst conferences. Something just doesn't make sense.

[MacabreMob]

I really want to know why this kid ended up signing a LOI with one of the nation's worst schools in one of the nation's worst conferences. Something just doesn't make sense.

Did he "explode"?

[BradleyBrave]

Did he "explode"?

No. The articles where he seemed to be gaining interest from decent programs were BEFORE he committed to So Car St. It makes absolutely NO SENSE.

[MacabreMob]

No. The articles where he seemed to be gaining interest from decent programs were BEFORE he committed to So Car St. It makes absolutely NO SENSE.

Then I suppose we all have to put our trust in Coach Les and his staff.

[SFP]

We really do not have to much depth with a physical big! So that means we will need to run, run and run some more in order to score and take the other teams big out of the game. With so many guards I do hope we press from end line to end line. We did not really have that much depth at the 1-2 (DR, SM, JC, TCS) and by the end of the game the team was tired. Next year should be different. This could be fun if our guys can learn to play helter skelter D and really condition themselves this off season to take the punishment.

[dogsrus]

No. The articles where he seemed to be gaining interest from decent programs were BEFORE he committed to So Car St. It makes absolutely NO SENSE.

Bbrave....he played AAU ball with one of SCS assit. coaches. It only makes sense...he developed a relationship...then realized he made a mistake. Corrected it after some reflection and now is at BU.

BTW...did you watch Maryland ES play BU and other teams......there was 1 for sure maybe 2 guys I would have taken on BU's team in a heart beat...period. Just like Michigan State would have loved to have JC or DR......the good players don't always go to the better schools.

[BradleyBrave]

Bbrave....he played AAU ball with one of SCS assit. coaches. It only makes sense...he developed a relationship...then realized he made a mistake. Corrected it after some reflection and now is at BU.

BTW...did you watch Maryland ES play BU and other teams......there was 1 for sure maybe 2 guys I would have taken on BU's team in a heart beat...period. Just like Michigan State would have loved to have JC or DR......the good players don't always go to the better schools.

I watched M-ES play, and they were the worst DI team I have ever seen. IMO, there wasn't one guy on that roster I would have rather have on our team. SC St was in their league. The fact that DN played for an SC St assistant coach makes me think even more that something fishy was going on, especially since I didn't think college coaches were allowed to have anything to do with the AAU circuit.

[thefish7]

I thoght FGCU had a couple of players I might like, but agree with BB, didn't see anything on UMES.

[Chico]

Who cares why DN signed with someone else in a bad conference? He is committed to BU now, and that's ok with me. Welcome aboard Darian.

[thefish7]

Right on, Chico. Welcome to BU, Darian.

[ph]

We really do not have to much depth with a physical big! So that means we will need to run, run and run some more in order to score and take the other teams big out of the game. With so many guards I do hope we press from end line to end line. We did not really have that much depth at the 1-2 (DR, SM, JC, TCS) and by the end of the game the team was tired. Next year should be different. This could be fun if our guys can learn to play helter skelter D and really condition themselves this off season to take the punishment.

I would agree that lack of guard depth did limit the effectivness of this system.
You could probably say that most missed defensive plays could of been better run with more fresh guards.

[VeveJones007]

Who cares why DN signed with someone else in a bad conference? He is committed to BU now, and that's ok with me. Welcome aboard Darian.

Exactly. How many of our posters wouldn't have minded at all if we had signed Beckham...who had signed with that powerhouse of a team with the fear-evoking name of IUPUI!

For all the people who were aching for a 4 year big man with this scholarship, all I have to ask is did you really think a freshman big would make a bigger difference than what we have on the roster already? IMO it would take at least a year before we could see significant results from that type of player, so next year's team wouldn't be affected. No matter who this scholarship went to, I think next year's team was pretty much set. It's up to the coaching staff and the players to make adjustments and improve so that we can finish in the top 3 in the Valley next year.

[Beninator]

Exactly. How many of our posters wouldn't have minded at all if we had signed Beckham...who had signed with that powerhouse of a team with the fear-evoking name of IUPUI!

For all the people who were aching for a 4 year big man with this scholarship, all I have to ask is did you really think a freshman big would make a bigger difference than what we have on the roster already? IMO it would take at least a year before we could see significant results from that type of player, so next year's team wouldn't be affected. No matter who this scholarship went to, I think next year's team was pretty much set. It's up to the coaching staff and the players to make adjustments and improve so that we can finish in the top 3 in the Valley next year.

No but by not getting a big this year, it puts even more of an emphasis on getting a forward or center with next year's class. I would like to see a more diversified recruiting class than 4 guards.

[Da Coach]

Dave Reynolds has a great article about Darian Norris in today's PJ Star. But for some reason, it is not available online. Hopefully, for those outside Peoria, we can link to it soon. He confirms that Darian is an academic qualifier. His father is a Las Vegas police officer, and Darian says he doesn't mind being in a city (Peoria) that "isn't so busy".
Dave interviewed Darian and his father, and they tell what they liked about Bradley and their style of play, and why they wanted to get out of the committment to South Carolina State. The "icing on the cake" was that Peoria has a direct flight to Las Vegas, and his father said he can get here faster than he can drive to southern California.

[BradleyBrave]

Article is up online now.

http://www.pjstar.com/stories/041508/BRA_BGBK5HB1.W02.php

[BUBraves06]

Sounds like he's really excited to come to BU, I can't wait to see him in the red 'n white!

[BradleyBrave]

Scout.com now has Norris's profile and commitment updated on their site (thanks to a late night email from a 'contributor' to the site). :)

[tornado]

Scout.com now has Norris's profile and commitment updated on their site (thanks to a late night email from a 'contributor' to the site). :)


Here's the scout article............
http://scouthoops.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=9&c=2&cid=746497&nid=2667097&fhn=1&RequestedURL=http%3a%2f%2fscouthoops.scout.com%2fa .z%3fs%3d75%26p%3d9%26c%3d2%26cid%3d746497%26nid%3 d2667097%26fhn%3d1

"Will Sign With Bradley"
April 15, 2008 at 8:27am ET


"Jim Les' Bradley Braves reached the scholarship limit this week. The addition of point guard Darian Norris gives Les 13 players for next season.
"Darian took an official visit to Bradley University this weekend," Walter Norris, Darian's father said. "Darian and I were very impressed with the university, basketball program, and coaching staff (especially Coach Les). So much so, that Darain gave his verbal and will be signing his letter of intent Wednesday."

For Las Vegas (Nev.) Mojave, Norris averaged 18.7 points per game to go along with 7 assists and 5 rebounds.
************************************************** ******************************************



By the way....as for whether the kid blew up in his senior season....here are a couple articles.........

"Posted: 8/4/2007 10:28 AM
Summer Classic
Two players saw their stock go through the roof ...The 42 point performance by Darian Norris in the Dogcatchers' loss to Salt Lake Metro Prospects in the Summer Classic semifinals had coaches from Utah and BYU (there to watch the SL team) asking the table who Norris was and what school he attended (his name didn't appear on the roster in the media guide or coaches book).
There aren't many teams anywhere that ever have 50+ coaches watching them play."


"From Nevada Prep Sports...
Heres a list of the top players from each class.
Seniors
1. Darian Norris
2. Raveon Samuel
3. Juron Criner..."



Lastly-- one more article from April, 2007
http://scouthoops.scout.com/2/632819.html

Here's some of what the article says.........

"2008 Introduction: Darian Norris
Apr 4, 2007

Las Vegas has started to turn out some quality basketball prospects and point guard Darian Norris is one of the better Vegas prospects in the 2008 class. We caught up with him recently and got an update on his recruitment...

Darian Norris, 5-10 JR PG Las Vegas (Nev.) Mojave, is a quick and talented young prospect. While he’s on the small side, Norris has a good stroke to the stripe and the ability to break down a defense.
We spoke with Norris recently and he gave us a list of schools that have been in contact with him.

“Gonzaga, Nevada, Oregon, USC, UNLV, Tulsa, Idaho and Virginia Tech,” said Norris. “Also, Kansas came to a practice while they were out here playing against Florida. I don’t really have a leader right now – I’m pretty wide open.”
We asked Norris what he is looking for in a school.
“The tempo, how they play and how the coaches interact,” said Norris. “Location is not really that important. It could be close and that would be good, but if the situation is good elsewhere then I’ll go there.”
We asked Norris about the importance of early playing time.

“Early playing time is a consideration,” said Norris. “Not necessarily to get a lot of time right away, but just to be able to get some time early.”

“USC, Gonzaga and Nevada came to games.”

Norris said a Big 12 program was his dream school growing up.
“Texas was my dream school – I was born right around the corner from the arena,” said Norris. “I came to Vegas early, but thought about going back there.”

Norris told us he has a 3.6 GPA."

[BUFAN]

“Texas was my dream school – I was born right around the corner from the arena,” said Norris. “I came to Vegas early, but thought about going back there.”
Was't Eddren originally from Houston.

[tornado]

yes, Eddren was in high school in Houston until his sophomore year.
Just due to the AAU circuit, it is possible the two may know each other already.

[BUFAN]

yes, Eddren was in high school in Houston until his sophomore year.
Just due to the AAU circuit, it is possible the two may know each other already.

Thankx coach, then it is possible that Coach Brooks was involved in recruiting Darian. After seeing all that has been written about Darian, I think he will be a nice fit and a good player for us.

[SaintLouBrave22]

Am I the only one that feels really comfortable knowing the kid has a 3.6 GPA...?


I mean we certainly shouldn't have to worry about this being another Buycks or DW

[Stryker]

Am I the only one that feels really comfortable knowing the kid has a 3.6 GPA...?


I mean we certainly shouldn't have to worry about this being another Buycks or DW

Yeah that is very nice. Good players are hard to come by, but good players with good grades are even more rare. Can't wait to see him play. Maybe he will get some scholar athlete of the week awards like JC did while he is at BU.

[VeveJones007]

No but by not getting a big this year, it puts even more of an emphasis on getting a forward or center with next year's class. I would like to see a more diversified recruiting class than 4 guards.

I'm pretty sure that with the large recruiting class we're going to have to bring in next year, we'll probably add one or two Juco bigs. I think it'll work out about the same. It just depends on who we could have gotten this year and who we can get next year to make a judgment on it.

[Stryker]

I think that Les has done a good job with recruiting in this class. We have 3 great guards coming in Dodson, McCain, and Norris. With Sam M. as well, we will be very solid for the next three-four years at guard. Hopefully Thompson and Egolf will turn into great players as well. The potential is here to do great things. This class also shows a commitment from Les to stay with the guard heavy offense, and will allow him to recruit mostly bigs next year.

[BU Firsty]

Yeah that is very nice. Good players are hard to come by, but good players with good grades are even more rare. Can't wait to see him play. Maybe he will get some scholar athlete of the week awards like JC did while he is at BU.

I really think we will all love this kid as a person. I also believe he is a talented player, but he has a very engaging and polite personality and is obviously bright. He will be a fans' favorite for sure.

[mike radigan]

On the subject of our new recruits being great kids and a great GPA, remember:

I talked with Chris Roberts at the tailgate party. Seems like a great kid. And now a 3.8 GPA in biology. Welcome Chris, you da man!

[SFP]

Welcome Darian to the BU family! You can achieve all your dreams at BU and it sounds like we are a perfect fit!

One thing about this class they sound very athletic, they all seem to have a high basketball IQ and best of all represent our community with high standards. I like when we get players that take their studies serious. It just makes our school look much better.

[VeveJones007]

Welcome Darian to the BU family! You can achieve all your dreams at BU and it sounds like we are a perfect fit!

I think one of his dreams was to play in the Big 12...do you know something we don't? :p

[pfunk880]

I think one of his dreams was to play in the Big 12...do you know something we don't? :p

I'd rather move to the Big 12 than the Horizon. (http://www.bradleyfans.com/vb/showthread.php?t=6203&highlight=horizon)

[Da Coach]

I think one of his dreams was to play in the Big 12...do you know something we don't? :p

He never dreamed he had a chance to play in the MVC, so in his dreams he had settled for the Big 12.:D