Texas Trio Enters 2011 NBA Draft

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Jordan Hamilton, along with Cory Joseph and Tristan Thompson have all entered their name in the 2011 NBA draft.

Hamilton is reportedly signing with an agent, while teammates Joseph and Thompson elect against signing to preserve eligibility.

Hamilton has been on NBA scouts radar due to his versatility and physical body.

Hamilton paced the Longhorns this season with 18.6 points, and 7.7 rebounds per game. Hamilton was selected on the All-Big 12 conference team along with a USBWA Second Team selection.

Teammate Thompson wasn't far off averaging 13.4 points, 7.8 rebonds, and 2.4 blocks per game. Thompson was selected as Big 12 Newcomer of the Year, All-Big 12 Second Team, and the All-Big 12 Defensive Team.

Thompson has a massive 7'2'' wingspan to make up for his height in the post. He certainly has the ability to dictate the tempo on the defensive end and the offensive side of the ball as well.

Joseph finished his season averaging 10.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and three assist per game. The 6'3'' lead guard from Canada had an impressive season at the point for Texas. He's a great leader, doesn't force the action (1.5 TO's) and has the ability to run the point at the next level.

Joseph was an All-Big 12 conference honorable mention as well as being selected on the All-Big 12 Rookie Team.

His defense is solid, his offense will be a question at the next level.

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Jordan Hamilton and Texas Quieting Critics

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

They say the non-conference games are beneficial to the preparation of a team headed into conference play. Obviously, coach Rick Barnes got the memo, and his players have responded well.

After playing the toughest non-conference schedule in the Big 12, the Texas Longhorns (19-3, 7-0) have jumped out to a perfect 7-0 conference record, which is their best start in school history.

Before the season, no coaches thought the Longhorns were going to capture the Big 12 title after losing Damion James, Dexter Pittman, and Avery Bradley to the NBA draft.

Especially, witnessing the Longhorns meltdown mid-season, a year before, after being placed in the National Championship talks.

No question, this year's Texas squad has been more impressive than the 17-0 Longhorns from a year ago.

"We were four games in, and I told the team, we're just getting started," said coach Barnes. "I talked all year long about the rhythm of our team, our routine, and not only what we do in practice, it's everything we do, and I really give my guys credit for that."

The Longhorns have been very impressive on both ends of the floor. Four Longhorns average double figure scoring led by Jordan Hamilton, who scores 19 points per game. As a team, Texas scores 76.5 points per game, while shooting 37 percent from deep.

Things only get better on the defensive side of the ball. Coach Barnes has done a great job of utilizing his team's athletic ability on the defensive end.

The Longhorns have held teams to an average of 60 points per game.

Texas is one of the most disciplined teams on the glass. When a shot goes up, all players are crashing the boards.

Hamilton and freshman Tristian Thompson both average a team high 7.5 rebounds per game.

As a team, the Longhorns are snatching down 41.4 a game, 27.9 coming on the defensive glass. Texas is able to track down so many rebounds, due to its terrific defense.

The Longhorns smother you on defense, not allowing you to get a clean look at the basket. The Longhorns are holding teams to 36 percent from the field and 27 percent from downtown.

Texas has shown flashes of brilliance in many ways this season. Their play has them as the latest contender to make the Final Four and compete for the National Championship.

"I've been doing this 24 years as an assistant coach and head coach, and I haven't seen many teams as good as Texas" said Texas A&M's head coach Mark Turgeon. "Playing at that level they're playing at, I thought they were fantastic."

Texas understands who their stars are and utilizes their abilities. Hamilton, their sophomore leader, has exceeded expectations and has become the Longhorns No. 1 threat on offense.

Hamilton shoots 47 percent from the field, and 42 percent from the three-point line, while taking around 14 shots per game.

His improvement, and continuous progression is one reason Texas can be labeled contenders. Hamilton current stat line looks something like this: 19 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assist per game.

Running mate, and possibly the x-factor for Texas, Thompson has continued to impress and his name dips in-and-out NBA draft conversations.

Thompson has shot an impressive 53 percent from the field during conference play, and is certainly the gas that fueled the Longhorns over previous Big 12 champ Kansas.

Thompson averages 12.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks. His intensity in the frontcourt has helped Texas stay atop of the College Basketball polls. The Longhorns are currently listed as the No. 3 ranked team in the nation after starting the season out No. 25.

Freshman guard Cory Joseph has been a great contributor, as is, senior Gary Johnson, J'Covan Brown, and Dogus Balbay.

The pressure is certainly on Texas now as the conference race starts to speed up, and teams are starting to really take notice. The Longhorns have the chance to finish undefeated in the Big 12 after winning against Mizzou, Texas A&M, and Kansas.

They've proven they can win on the road, and protect their home court. The Longhorns are for real this year, and could pose a huge threat come March.

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Texas Poised to Steal Big 12 Title

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

The Texas Longhorns (10-2) were selected to finish third in the Big 12 conference by the coaches before the season.

Texas returned four key players in Gary Johnson, J'Covan Brown, Dogus Balbay, and most importantly Jordan Hamilton. Hamilton was looked to fill the void of departed senior Damion James, and has done just that.

Freshman Tristian Thompson, and Cory Joseph only added to the star power and the Longhorns are looking great headed into conference play.

Last year, after an undefeated non-conference slate of games, and No. 1 ranking, Texas lack of a true point guard came back to hunt them.

Heading into Big 12 play this time around, Texas has enough star power to finish atop of the tough Big 12 conference.

Head Coach Rick Barnes has key wins over ranked teams such as Illinois, North Carolina and a huge win on the road against Michigan State.

Frosh Joseph has shown maturity by stepping up and making key plays down the stretch. With the game on the line against North Carolina, Josephs nailed what would be a game winner over Dexter Strickland with 1.4 seconds left.

Coach Barnes has always wanted freshman Josephs to be assertive in the offense, and since stepping up against the Tar Heels, he has become a totally different player.

He averages 11.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.9 assist per game. He is also a great on-ball defender, and can make garbage plays on both ends of the floor.

His counterpart Thompson hasn't been short from magnificent either. Thompson currently leads the Longhorns in rebounding with eight per game, while chipping in 11.2 points.

Thompson's 17 points, and 15 rebounds helped Texas come up with a huge win on the road against the Spartans. Texas managed to finally hand Michigan State its first loss in 53 tries.

Once James graduated and took his talents to the NBA, coach Barnes immediately turned to his sophomore Hamilton to fill the void. Hamilton has been magnificent for Texas this season, and has shown signs of departed James.

Hamilton has been the biggest success story after being sidelined with injury for most of last year. Hamilton leads Texas in scoring with 19.5 points, while also adding 7.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assist per game.

In the past two games against worthy opponents, Hamilton has chipped in a total of 45 points, and 18 rebounds.

The x-factor this season is 6-foot-6 senior Johnson. All season, Johnson has come alive on the glass grabbing 7.3 boards per outing. He isn't shy in the scoring column either chipping in 11.8 points per game as well.

Texas latest win over Michigan State helped solidify its dominance as a basketball power. The Longhorns understand who their superstars are and the ball always seems to find them in late game situations.

The Longhorns are currently on a 4-game winning streak that highlights wins over North Carolina, and Michigan State.

Before the Longhorns can even think about a Big 12 title, they'll have a to win it through Kansas and Kansas State. Both of the two are very impressive Big 12 opponents, and could end up with the title when its all said and done.

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No. 22 Texas Longhorns Upset No. 16 Illinois in OT

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

The No. 16 Illinois Fighting Illini (3-1) came into the game with a huge advantage of having depth over the No. 22 Texas Longhorns (3-0).

Texas also had the advantage in the frontcourt averaging almost 50 rebounds per game.

The game was better than advertised. The see-saw affair needed more than 40-minutes to decide which team would play the No. 4 Pittsburgh Panthers in the championship game.

 Two freshman, Jereme Richmond and Corey Joseph both nailed shots to tie things up before the buzzer.

In overtime, Texas came out the gates with an 8-0 run that virtually put the Longhorns in the driver seat.

Despite two big three-point field goals by Illinois Bill Cole that pulled the game within three, the Longhorns hit two free throws in the final minute to pull away in the final seconds 90-84.

Tristian Thompson led all scorers with 20 points, seven rebounds, five blocks, and four assist. Jordan Hamilton continues to lead to the Longhorns in scoring with 25-points, with seven rebounds and three steals.

Gary Johnson (16), and Corey Joseph (10) were the other Longhorns in double-figures on the night. Despite their blemish at the free-throw line, shot 25-44 from the line, the Longhorns made key turnovers on defense to help pull away from the Illini.

Illinois picked up their first loss on the season, and that could have been a result to frontier force Mike Tisdale fouling out only picking up seven points and rebounds apiece.

Richmond also picked up his fifth foul in overtime, and that didn't help the Illini out either. Not to mention, the Illinois shot a daunting 37 percent from the line.

However, what doesn't show up in the stat book is Dougus Balbay's defense on McCamey. Balbay on finished with five points, eight rebounds, and three assist, but his defense is what sent the Longhorns to the winners circle.

Balbay played tough defense on one of the top guards in the nation, and did not let him touch the ball in key situations.

This is one of the reason why Texas could overcome a 22 point, eight assist, five rebound and two steal performance by the talented guard McCamey.

The Illini did not get much of a lift from their bench in the second half, although two reserves were in double-figures on the night; both Richmond with 11, and Brandon Paul with 12.

D.J. Richardson also checked in with 15, but the defense of Texas was too tough to overcome in overtime for the Illini. Texas moves on to face No. 4 Pitt in the championship, while Illinois will play Maryland in a third place game.

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Peyton Siva Among Athletes Poised to Emerge Out The Shadows

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

It's not un-common to see a coach reserve a player that he does not believe is ready for the challenges of College Basketball. In fact, it occurred on many occasions last season.

There have been many cases were a highly-touted recruit arrives and understands that he will have a learning season.

Then you have the players that are acquired to back up a current superstar. After the player graduates, or leaves, the acquired player will finally get the chance to come out his shadow.

This is what occurred last season with a lot of highly-touted recruits in the 2009 class, and backups during the 09-10' season.

With the upcoming season right around the corner, the notable players are starting to come to light.

There are many players that are poised to breakout for their respective squads. But here is my selection of the most notable players that are poised to break out of the shadows.

Wally Judge - Kansas State Wildcats
Wally Judge came out of high school as a McDonald's All-American. Judge drew the attention of many NBA scouts and was conceived to possible fulfill his NBA dreams after one year at Kansas State. However, that wasn't the case. Due to Luis Colon, Curtis Kelly, Jamar Samuels, and the Wildcats stacked frontcourt, Judge was only used for defensive purposes. This season, with more minutes opening up Judge will embrace the chance to "wow" and become one of the premier threat in the Big 12.

Corey Fisher - Villanova Wildcats
Playing beside a talented player like Scottie Reynolds wasn't easy for Corey Fisher. Reynolds got all the recognition for the success at Villanova. Now, with Reynolds gone, Fisher will grasp the chance to embrace success. His scoring ability will be critical for the 'Cats.

Peyton Siva - Louisville Cardinals
Last season, Rick Pitino acquired McDonald's All-American point guard Peyton Siva to back up Edgar Sosa. With Sosa, and Siva, Pitino had a duo of guards that could play at a high-level. With Sosa gone, Siva gets his crack at leading the offense for the Cardinals. I assume he will be one of the most improved players in the Big East.

Jordan Hamilton - Texas Longhorns
Jordan Hamilton's college career has been plagued with injuries thus far. Despite playing beside a player like Damion James, Hamilton was looked to contribute a lot to the Longhorns. However, the lack of staying healthy hurt the rotation of Texas. This season, with a healthy Hamilton the Longhorns key threat may be on the wing.

Kevin Jones - West Virginia Mountaineers
Despite playing beside De'Sean Butler, and Devin E'banks, Kevin Jones was able to accumulate 13.5 points, and 7.2 rebounds. With both of those players in the NBA, the buzz will now surround Jones. He will be able to get the recognition and produce at a consistent rate with more touches.

Korie Lucious - Michigan State Spartans
Last season, Lucious ended the season on a strong note. Despite losing to Butler, Lucious lead the Spartans to the Final Four and hit key shots as well. This year, with Kalin Lucas returning from injury Lucious could become the next threat for the Spartans. If he stays consistent for the Spartans he could start at point, and Tom Izzo may slide Lucas to the two.

Morris Twins - Kansas Jayhawks
The Morris Twins collectively were overshadowed by the contributions of Cole Aldrich day-in and day-out. However, with his NBA career in-sight the twin brothers will have the chance to take over the Jayhawks frontcourt. With a new guard, these two could become the favorite target.

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It's Time To Step Up: Players That Need To Come Through Next Season

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

For some players, their freshman year of college basketball is a breeze. Others can't say the same.

There are a ton of sophomore players heading into next year with a vengeance. 

Some were used lightly and some weren't used at all. 

However, once the 2010-11 season gets started, these are the guys that will need to be big for their respective squads.

John Henson, North Carolina, Forward

Henson came out of high school as a sure-fire top-ten player in the 2009 recruiting class. He could do so many things right in the post.

However, once arrived in Chapel Hill for his freshman season, he wasn't able to play big minutes.

He was playing behind Ed Davis and Deon Thompson for the first part of the season.

But once Davis broke his hand, his minutes picked up and we started seeing a little of what we could expect from Henson.

With a depleted frontcourt the Tar Heels are going to rely on Henson a lot to make plays.

He needs to step up and give the 'Heels the edge in the post.

Jordan Hamilton, Texas, Guard

Hamilton ended his high school career as the best small forward in the Class of 2009. He is very long, explosive and athletic.

He has the ability to be a great wing player. However, since Texas had Damion James, and his injury early in the season, you weren't able to witness a lot of what Hamilton could do.

Next season, Texas will need a spark off the wing. Hamilton can be what James was. He is a consistent jump shooter and an absolute monster in transition.

Hamilton thrives in fast paced offenses and Texas will need that kind of player next season.

Wally Judge, Kansas State, Forward

Judge came out of high school as a McDonald's All-American. He was blessed with explosive leaping ability and the skills to be a dominant post player.

The Wildcats' frontcourt was not loaded with talent but K-State head coach Frank Martin still only pulled Judge out the bag for defensive reasons. But when he did, Judge also showed he could play offense.

Reviewing game tape, you will see what a great job he did against Kansas. Not only did he contain Cole Aldrich, but he ran in transition an made plays on offense. 

Not to mention, he can be a great low post option on offense.

Judge needs to cut down on his turnovers ho wever. The Wildcats could use his presence in the post. He is a big-time athlete that needs time to improve. This season is the perfect time for him to play a ton of minutes and get to where he needs to be.

Peyton Siva, Louisville, Point Guard

Siva is a 5-foot-11 point guard that came out of high school as a McDonald's All-American.

He is a very explosive athlete with the ability to score on every possession. But that doesn't mean he will not check it down and get his teammates involved.

Siva played behind guards Edgar Sosa and Jerry Smith for most of his freshmen year. 

With the point guard position open, Siva will have a chance to show off his skills.

His explosiveness adds another dimension to this backcourt. Not to mention, his thievery on defense is also a plus. 

Louisville will need all his contributions in their depleted backcourt next season.

Mason Plumlee, Duke, Center

The 6-foot-10 center Plumlee came out of high school as one of the best in his class.

He is extremely long, coordinated and agile. I remember watching Plumlee participate in the high schools dunk contest.

He threw down dunks that you would not expect from a 6-foot-10 center.

Last season, he had to play behind Brian Zoubek and Lance Thomas.

Now that both have graduated, I expect Plumlee to emerge as the leader of Duke's frontcourt.

Abdul Gaddy, Washington, Point Guard 

Coming out of high school, Gaddy was tabbed as one of the best point guards in the recruiting class. 

He was considered to be the best point guard not named John Wall; who went No. 1 overall in the draft. 

Gaddy is a point guard in every sense. He is young and developing, but his game has surpassed so many of his peers.

He has a great jump shot that he uses off-the-dribble and when setting up.

After a slow start to his college career, I expect an improved Gaddy that is ready to show why he was the No. 2 point guard in the 2009 recruiting class.

Elijah Johnson, Kansas, Point Guard

Johnson came out of high school tabbed as one of the better point guards in his class.

However, he doesn't have the feel to play point guard for a college program and that is probably why he chose to redshirt.

Johnson is a great player with the ability to score all day.

With Collins, I do not think minutes would have opened if he decided he wanted to play.

Johnson is a great player in transition and once the break starts he wants to show off his athleticism.

Head coach Bill Self will need all his contributions, since most of their guards are gone from last year’s squad.