Anthony Davis Jr Helps Form The College Version Of The Miami Heat's Trio

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Photo Credits to ESPN.com

Well all know for sure that Anthony Davis Jr will be attending Kentucky. There was speculation that his decision was going to happen as early as Tuesday. Today was the day if you asked his father. He decided to let the press know that his son was committing to play for the Kentucky Wildcats.

It is not surprising to many, but it certainly did surprise me. I thought he would stay in his hometown and play basketball with Oliver Purnell.

My notion was inaccurate, and Davis Jr decided Kentucky was better suited for him.

Davis Jr impressed a lot this summer with his impressive length and upside. He can play just about every position on the floor, except point guard because his ball-handling is still a work in progress.

Either way, his commitment to Kentucky has arisen one of the best freshman  classes I've seen. Note that I also witnessed John Wall, Eric Bledsoe, DeMarcus Cousin and Daniel Orton.

What separates this class from the preceding class is the star power. They have arguably the top three players in the class. To make it seem even better, the No. 1 point guard, small forward and arguably the best power forward.

In his 'John Calipari' ways, I expect more talented players to attend the University of Kentucky in '11-12.

Now, if you follow CoHoops, you know that I explained how much Kentucky needed Davis Jr. I said, if he committed to the program, I believe they will be able to compete on a national level.

Davis Jr, Marquis Teague, and Michael Gilchrist sound like the best trio in College Basketball. Three well in-depth scorers, leaders and athletes with tremendous upside.

It almost reminds me of the Miami Heat trio . Davis Jr and Gilchrist are almost the same players. Each can be a double-double guy on a given night, a leader, scorer or just anything you ask for.

Davis Jr will be the post threat, while Gilchrist creates havoc on the wing. Teague will lead the offense and make sure things go as planned. 

Similiar to the team that went to the National Championship with Calipari at Memphis, these three inherit essential qualities and Kentucky will have fire power in the post, on the wing and in the backcourt.

That all sounds like the winning formula to me. I expect  to see Kentucky run deep in the 2011-12 NCAA Tournament. They are ill-suited for the long run and will make it.

Do not assume the recruiting stops here, it has only just begun.


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Anthony Davis Jr. Decision Coming as Early as Tuesday?

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Photo Credits to Scout.com

College Basketball recruiting induces incremented anxiety to the game. The high school players now-a-days are mind-boggling and so talented that every college in the country wants them playing for their program.

That's how it unfolded for Anthony Davis Jr. He made one of the biggest growth spurts that made him 6-foot-10 and drew comparisons of Kevin Durant as well as being drowned by college mail from almost every college in the country.

We all understand he made his top three known; DePaul, Kentucky and Ohio. He also acknowledged that he had a school in place but wasn't ready to confirm the winner of the Davis Jr. sweepstakes.

On August 9th, 2010 we watched or at least heard for the most part, Isaiah Austin determine Baylor was his college choice. I'm sure Davis Jr. took notes on how to announce it and a few sources say he could announce his college decision to the world this upcoming Tuesday (August 17, 2010).

However, with no official word it's just speculation. That also doesn't mean you completely ignore the fact that he could make his decision.

Each of his college choices is even and according to Davis Sr., for those who consider him a lock at Kentucky "keep guessing."

As the days pass by the speculation rises and most of us are greatly anticipating his college decision. If he chooses Kentucky, they'll contend for a title. If he chooses DePaul they'll have one of the biggest turnarounds and if he chooses Ohio State he'll improve the most as a player mentally and physically.


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Examining The Three Possibly Destinations For Anthony Davis Jr.

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

I'm certain everyone tuned in to LeBron James "Decision" to go to the Miami Heat. It was fun to speculate and once he made his decision everyone tuned in. Well since that happened in the NBA, CoHoops didn't cover it. However, with the Anthony Davis saga, I'm going to have fun with this.

I'm addressing it like a mini-decision. It sure feels like one and Anthony Davis Sr. jokingly labeled it a "decision" as well.

Indeed, Davis Jr. requires a lot of eyes or ears witnessing his decision. He is the closest athlete to a Kevin Durant clone. He has a 6-foot-10 frame that comes with ball-handling, shooting range as well as an inside game. His ball-handling and shooting range is still a work in progress but you can't be displeased at the progression he has made this summer.

He has jumped from unknown to potentially the best player in a class that features Quincy Miller, Austin Rivers let alone Michael Gilchrist.

Once Davis Jr. gained fame, colleges from across the nation intended to recruit him. However, only three had been fortunate enough to be considered for his services--Kentucky, DePaul and Ohio State University.

Everyone with knowledge of the situation seems to peg Davis Jr. with Kentucky. However, after long speculation and personal opinion, I think each of the three schools have an equal shot at landing him.

Nonetheless, here is how each of the teams will commend the 6-foot-10 forward

Ohio State University

The Buckeyes have continuously been a commendable recruiting service. They acquired Greg Oden, Michael Conley, Jared Sullinger, Deshaun Thomas and more.  Next year, the Buckeyes' will have four scholarship seniors leaving as well as Sullinger and Thomas who are one-and-done talent.

That will leave Ohio State at least six scholarships to work around Davis Jr. That will also mean he can be the main contributor for a program on a national stage.

The Buckeyes' have already received a verbal commitment from one of the top guards in the class, adding Davis Jr. will only attract more recruits.

Ohio State has a great chance at landing him. It's not that far from home, he could be "the guy" on a national stage as well as improving--i.e. Evan Turner.

Ohio State would be a great for Davis Jr. I understand how he could see himself on the campus. Having Davis Jr. around will remind a lot of Turner's magical year as a Buckeye.

DePaul University

From my personal opinion, DePaul is the best possible choice for Davis Jr. Now before you get defensive here is why. The Blue Demons jumped into his top three to everyone's surprise. DePaul is the closest school to home and that's where I could honestly see him.

He could stay home, play in one of the toughest conferences in America while still improving. Not to mention, he could improve his leadership ability and become that all-around player he is shooting for.

The Blue Demons will have some flexibility with scholarships to help surround Davis Jr. with a few more All-American type players. With Oliver Purnell and Davis Jr. DePaul will certainly start acquiring a winning streak in the Big East versus the losing streak their accustom too.  

Purnell has a long track record of turning programs around, and I know he will do just that with Davis Jr. wearing a Blue Demons jersey in 2011-12.

Kentucky Wildcats

The Kentucky Wildcats and Davis Jr. match perfectly well. The Wildcats can offer him winning, talent, improvement and a shot to be a one-and-done player.

With Marquis Teague and Michael Gilchrist poised to be Kentucky players in 2011-12, Davis Jr. could join and form one of the greatest trio's College Basketball possibly will ever witness.

Two versatile players on the wing with Gilchrist and Davis Jr. while Teague makes sure the offense runs smoothly. My last time seeing a big three form was Joakim Noah, Al Horford and Corey Brewer. However, Teague, Gilchrist and Davis Jr. will come out of high school in a better arrangement.

They can compete with other programs as a National powerhouse during their freshman year. However, for this to occur he will need to commit first.

Overall, I believe each of the three programs suit Davis Jr. well. Ohio State offers a great coach that is familiar with Mr. Versatile and improving players. DePaul offers him the chance to compete at high levels in a tough Big East conference as well as being the teams’ No. 1 option. Lastly, Kentucky offers winning and a chance to be one-and-done.

Who has the edge? I don't know its all speculation right now. Until his mouth forms the words Kentucky, DePaul or Ohio State we'll never know for sure.

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Anthony Davis Could Throw The First 2011 Recruiting Curve Ball

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Photo Credits to Scout.com

A few days ago, stories circulated that Anthony Davis has made his decision. However, he isn't prepared to pledge his elected college, just yet.

One source says that he just doesn't know how to tell people. They've thought of on TV or in person. They want to tell the media but are you puzzled at how to go about it. Jokingly, Davis Sr. labels it a mini-decision.

Foregoing the Nike Peach Jam Tournament, many never knew who Davis was. He was a very good prep star but still unknown.

After showcasing his skill-set in the tournament against the other elite talent, scouts took notice. Since acquiring media attention, Davis has garnered offers or looks from almost every college in the country. That didn't indicate they contained an opportunity to acquire the forward either.

DePaul, Ohio State and Kentucky all rest inside his top three college choices. Plenty of fan and media outlets seem to steer Davis towards Coach Calipari and the Kentucky Wildcats. Although I do believe Kentucky has the best chance to bag the forward, I wouldn't be overwhelmed if he went with DePaul or Ohio State.

It has happened before. The coach at Baylor seemed to make all the right moves to lure-in the McDonald's All-American Perry Jones. It could be the same situation with DePaul and Oliver Purnell. In fact, the Blue Demons must possess something that Davis likes because they're competing against two powerful recruiting services.

As for Ohio State, he did turn down future visits with the Buckeyes but he has also been present on the campus plenty of times. Not to mention, Ohio State has done a great job of recruiting Davis. They sent three coaches to his last game while Kentucky wasn't present. They also, have made sure to be there when Davis is playing.

Nonetheless, the more we guess, the more this looks like another decision featuring Anthony Davis. I actually think that's where it's headed. It's not surprising, especially since we're in the aftermath of LeBron James "decision."

Now, here comes the fun part—waiting. If there is one thing you can do Kentucky, DePaul and Ohio State fans, it's not get your hopes up.


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Anthony Davis' Secret: I'm Thinking Kentucky

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Photo Credits to BuckeyPlanet.com

Anthony Davis has made great contributions this summer to become one of the Nation's top recruits. His ability to play up to four positions has scouts over the world drooling over his potential.

A player of his caliber usually likes the attention and waits to the last minute before making their college decision. Similar to his unorthodox game on the court, Davis brings that off the court as well.

After finishing up his visits to the schools he is considering the 6-foot-10 big man decided to make an announcement. 

According to Scout.com, Illinois native Anthony Davis has made his college decision. However, his discretion is his own secret. The 6-foot-10 forward decided he would wait before releasing his decision.

Before, if you didn't read my last post on Anthony Davis, I said that he could contend for a National Championship if he committed to John Calipari and the Kentucky Wildcats.

He has a lot of reported interest in the program and I think that's where he could be headed.

Nonetheless, Davis is still considering DePaul, Syracuse and Ohio State. DePaul recently jumped into the picture and I believe they embrace a chance to court Davis as much as Kentucky does—same for Ohio State and Syracuse.

On July 31st, Ohio State sent three coaches; Syracuse sent Rob Murphy while Kentucky and DePaul was a no-show.

He could end up anywhere. In the words of Dave Telep of Scout.com "wait a few weeks."

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If Anthony Davis Commits To Kentucky The Wildcats Are National Contenders

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

Since John Calipari began his coaching career with the Kentucky Wildcats, they have been well-known for attracting elite talent.

They acquired one of the best freshman recruiting classes a year ago that produced five NBA draft picks.

This upcoming season, Coach Calipari intends to make it six. He acquired Brandon Knight, Terrence Jones, Enes Kanter, Doron Lamb, Stacey Poole, Jarrod Polson and Eloy Vargas.

No question, Kentucky has the best recruiting class this year, as well. John Calipari continues to bring in talent, and nothing is modifying his recruiting endeavors.
Thus far in the 2011 recruiting class, he has received two verbal commitments. Michael Gilchrist and Marquis Teague help Calipari maintain the recruiting trend.

Now with the No. 1 overall prospect along with the best guard in the 2011 class, it is time for a post presence.

With the emergence of Anthony Davis, the Wildcats were one of the first teams to take notice.
Davis loves the fact that Kentucky produces NBA lottery talent, and that is one reason he is considering the program.

When Davis shortened his list Kentucky was amongst the leaders. If the Wildcats can receive a verbal commitment from Davis as well, I declare them national contenders.

Just think about a lineup that features Davis, Gilchrist and Teague.

The Wildcats will have the flexibility of going big or small and still contributing at a high level.

Teague will always play at the one, but with Gilchrist, you can slide him at the two or three and expect contributions as long as Gilchrist is on the wing he is productive.

Davis can be courted in three spots—the small or power forward along with the center position. He was a guard about a year ago, and his frame allows him to be versatile on the basketball court.

This trio will be able to contend for a National title. A talented point guard, wing threat, and post presence is particularly useful when you are building a successful team.
However, Calipari will need to bring in LeBryan Nash, Tony Wroten Jr. and Trevor Lacey as well as retaining DeAndre Liggins, Darius Miller, and Stacey Poole.

Nevertheless, trying to win a National Championship is hard--especially if you are a freshman. With the talent and leadership ability of Gilchrist, the Wildcats are Anthony Davis away from being National Contenders.


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Scramble at The Top: Who Is The Best Athlete In The 2011 Recruiting Class?

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Photo Credits to MaxPreps.com

This summer, College Basketball fans have become more interested in recruiting than ever. You have three athletes that could be the No. 1 overall player.

One athlete jumped into the picture this summer. In fact, Anthony Davis is considered to be the No. 1 overall player to a lot of scouts. He was once a guard but his seven-inch growth spurt has him playing forward. I assume you can guess what kind of player he is.

You also have Quincy Miller. Miller has opened a lot of eyes this summer with his play on the Olympic team. He hit the game winning shot to seal the victory. The U.S went on to receive gold medals and Miller is considered to be the No. 1 player.

Lastly, you have Michael Gilchrist. Gilchrist has always been considered to be the No. 1 overall recruit. He has about everything you would want in a wing threat. He has great offense that commends his defensive intensity. I mean, Gilchrist is one of the most complete forward I've seen in a while.

So, is there really a top ranked player? Let's find out.

F Anthony Davis 6'10''

When every recruiting site updates their rankings a familiar name will rest at the top of the board. Anthony Davis will potentially be the name. Davis was 6-foot-3 about a year ago. He played the guard position and didn't lure the attention of many college coaches.

However, this off-season, he showcased his new 6-foot-10 frame in a Nike Skills Camp and ESPN along with scouts all over the world fell in love. He was immediately thrown Kevin Durant comparisons.

He still has great handle, a jump-shot and post moves. If you incorporate that all into a 6-foot-10 frame it only spells mix-match.

He is definitely tough to guard now. With a player his height being able to handle the ball it'll be tough guarding him one-on-one. If you try to put small forwards on him, he'll use his strength to score; and power forwards are too slow.

F Michael Gilchrist 6'7''

Do you want a mature player that is ready to contribute right away? Well that's too bad because Kentucky already has him. Gilchrist, no question, is one of the best scorers in his class. He can score the ball in almost any way. It doesn't come with flash either. It's whatever gets the job done.

With the play of Gilchrist the US team was able to stay competitive.

But as soon as the US won the gold medal, Gilchrist went off and played in the Nike Peach Jam the following day. Yes, it's the same tournament were Anthony Davis gained his fame.

According to ESPN, Gilchrist went to sleep at 5 A.M and woke up at 9 A.M. to play in the Peach Jam. He was still successful and came away with 26 points. Oh yeah, Anthony Davis had the duties of holding Gilchrist that day.

F Quincy Miller 6'10''

In my opinion, Miller is the best all-around forward this class has to offer. Miller for his size has great ball-handling skills. He has the ability to get anywhere on the court he wants. With that comes a great shooting touch and explosiveness.

If anybody has the ability to be the next Kevin Durant it's Miller. He has great length but is equipped with a smaller frame. But that doesn't stop him from scoring the basketball at will.

If you remember what I said above, Miller hit the game winning shot on the biggest stage. That alone shows you his maturity as a basketball player. He wants to be the go-to-guy and has the mentality you need to succeed as a basketball player.

But overall, no matter what the rankings say, these three players are the best in the class. Like in College Basketball, the No. 1, 2 and 3-teams are always the best. But does that mean No. 1 is any better?

One thing is apparent with these three players and that’s a bright College Basketball future.

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College Basketball Rumors: Can Coach Calipari Get Davis and Miller?

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Coach John Calipari has had success luring in five-star recruits over the years. Not just getting them to the program, but also helping them get to the next level.

He has been successful at UMass, Memphis and Kentucky with recruiting and improving his players. He has done a great job at both. During his first year of coaching at Kentucky, Calipari pulled in one of the most electrifying recruiting classes college basketball has ever seen.

However, with such a lineup—that featured John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins, Patrick Patterson, Eric Bledsoe and Daniel Orton—the Wildcats were still unable to win a National Title.

But they did bring the Kentucky program back into the national picture.

That same season, every starter on their team was drafted in the first round of the 2010 NBA draft. That should be hard to replace right? Not if your name is John Calipari.

He has done more than reloaded. He has pulled in recruits that are going to keep the winning tradition alive in white and blue.

But after this year, I can foresee a lot of players going to the 2011 draft. So once again, Calipari will reload and continue his success.

In the 2011 recruiting class, showcases Quincy Miller, who I believe is the No. 1 overall player. Then you have Anthony Davis, who has made a late spurt and is categorized as a sure top-five prospect.

You can understand how Coach Calipari would want both of these players, but I think he can only have one.

The case of Miller and Davis is really tricky. Both seem to have the same style of play and will require major playing time wherever they decided to go.

But with both players, Kentucky happens to be at the top of their list. They’re both tall forwards that can play guard if they needed to. But also bang inside and make plays.

So how could Coach Calipari land both of these recruits? To me it’s not possible.

With Miller he wants to be in the limelight. He is a superstar type player that should be the No. 1 option on the team. Not to mention, he is a great leader on the court. If you didn’t hear, he was mature enough to step up for his US team and hit the game winning shot to win the gold medal.

Now does that sound second-option caliber?

Talk about a guy that dribbles the ball at 6-foot-9 better than your typical guard. Or the fact that he creates match-up problems at both the three-and-four position.

Everything you want in a basketball prospect Miller has. He has heart, determination, dedication, willingness and a great head on his shoulder.

Now with Davis, he is still up-and-coming, but the attention he is getting for his play only makes him hungrier to improve. He is a guard-forward that is at his best with the ball in his hands.

He can dribble outside the painted area, attack power forwards and create mix-match problems all day. 

Because of his seven-inch growth spurt he has acquired the ability to dominant the inside-out game.

With just one summer of hard work he has already been thrown Kevin Durant comparisons.

Not to mention, every college in the country took notice and is throwing offers his way left-to-right.

But overall, both of these players are similar but very different. Davis has yet to do achieve the fates, Miller has overcome.

However, with the recent improvement in Davis’ game he will be host to many scouts his senior season.

Coach Calipari has the chance to get one of the two players. However, I don’t believe he will be able to get both.

The decision of Davis will come before Miller decides where he wants to go. I think Davis’ decision will have a huge impact on Miller. If he does decide to go to Kentucky, I think Miller will weigh his options and go somewhere else where he can play up to his full potential.

But don’t count out the idea. Just last year, Coach Calipari was able to acquire both John Wall and Eric Bledsoe—two very quick and explosive point guards. So this is not out of mind.

Coach Calipari could snag both of them and use them as he did with Wall and Bledsoe.