Selby Deserves Some POY Hype

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Before December 18, many fans in Lawrence, Kansas, screamed "Free Selby" referring to the NCAA suspension that sidelined their combo guard for nine games.

When asked about his freshman, Head Coach Bill Self would always sound enthused about Josh Selby making his debut as a Kansas Jayhawk.

Many pegged Selby as the best guard in the 2010 class, and possibly best overall. However, nobody expected him to have such a breakout performance in his season debut.

The Kansas Jayhawks (9-0) figured out the wait for their prized freshman was well worth it, as Selby turned in a 21-point effort that led them to victory.

Selby nailed 5-of-8 three pointers, as well as grabbing five boards in the win. Not to mention, the 6-foot-2 Baltimore native showed maturity nailing, what would be, the game-winning three against the USC Trojans.

Selby played terrific all game, and granted it was one game but his ability to shoot the ball, and as Coach Self before, bail them out on offense is beneficial.

The Jayhawks had a tough time fighting off the pesky Trojans, but Selby made it possible.

Sure, Selby will have to prove he can consistently put up Player of the Year type numbers on the nations third ranked team. He will also have to display leadership, and lead Kansas to an impressive finish in the Big 12 conference.

The 6-foot-2 combo guard will most likely be inserted in the starting lineup once Kansas faces off against the (6-4) Cal Bears.

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Enosch Wolf and Josh Selby Set to Debut

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

When both the Kansas Jayhawks (9-0) and UConn Huskies (8-0) strapped up for the first time this season, both respective teams were missing a crucial piece to their roster.

Josh Selby, the No. 1 regarded athlete according to Rivals, could certainly commend the Morris twins talents down low.

Not to mention, giving the Jayhawks a slashing guard that can attack the basket, and finish games down the stretch.

Selby is set to debut December 18, 2010 at 12 PM ET when Kansas takes on the USC Trojans (6-4).

The Jayhawks need someone to take charge of their offense that struggles without a natural point guard. If Selby can be that guy, Kansas could be in contention for another title this year.

Head coach Bill Self has seen steady progression from junior Tyshawn Taylor, so I wouldn't expect to see Selby in the starting lineup right away, although it wouldn't be surprising if he was given the nod.

Right now, the Jayhawks miss Sherron Collins. Despite being the best passing team in the nation, dishing out 20 assist per game, Kansas has trouble taking care of the ball.

During their last game against Colorado State, the Jayhawks turned the ball over 17 times, 11 coming from the guards.

The Memphis Tigers also forced Kansas' guards into 11 turnovers, and 20 overall. Selby isn't know for being a complete point guard, which scares most, but he is a sure ball handler.

Selby can act carelessly with the ball, as does the active Kansas guards, but that can be curbed with more experience.

UConn is also looking forward to welcoming in a talented big man. Last year, Enosch Wolf, a 7-foot-1 center from Germany committed to UConn leaving fans happy about the what he could bring to the team.

After a long wait, Wolf is set to join the team at the end of semester, which is December 18th. Meaning, the German native could suit up for the Huskies December 20th when UConn takes on Coppin State at 7 PM ET.

Despite being one of the better rebounding teams in the nation, Wolf will definitely add a lot of length to UConn's frontline, as well as a defensive presence.

Head coach Jim Calhoun has the luxury of embracing one of the best players in the country in Kemba Walker, but Wolf will certainly help him out on offense.

The Huskies rely so much on their guards without much help from their frontcourt players. Alex Oriahki has been an consistent player for the Huskies and with Wolf alongside, UConn could create a dynamic duo down low.

Not to mention, Wolf is a player that can create offense outside of the paint with his ability to pull up and hit the mid range jumper.

He also has the ability to pass out the post if the double-team comes, and extra bulk helps him continue his dominance on the glass.

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Josh Selby Ruled Eligible After Nine Game Suspension

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

The Kansas Jayhawks Head Coach Bill Self patiently waited for the verdict on his 6-foot-3 guard Josh Selby out of Baltimore, Maryland.

On a night where Coach Self witnessed his Jayhawks tie a team record for home wins, Kansas got other good news as well.

Freshman guard Selby was granted eligibility but would have to serve a nine-game suspension for accepting illegal benefits, and pay back $5,757.58 according to the NCAA.

Selby, the No. 1 rated recruit according to Yahoo Rivals could come in and elevate the Jayhawks.

His debut is set for December 18, when the Jayhawks face off against the USC Trojans.

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Perry Jones Among The Talented Big 12 Newcomers

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

The Big 12 conference is consistently one of the best conferences in College Basketball. You can credit the coaches, and players for playing hard year-in and out.

You can also credit some of the efforts to recruiting. The Big 12 is notorious for bringing in elite talent. The Kansas Jayhawks are usually the program to bring in the most talented recruiting class.

However, this year that goes to the Baylor Bears. Freshman Perry Jones is ready to show people in Waco that he is the real deal.

But, Jones isn't the only talented newcomer. Josh Selby from Kansas is also among the talented newcomers.

Cameron Clark will have a big year as a Sooner. Not to mention, Missouri's Ricardo Ratliffe was selected by Big 12 coaches as the top newcomer this season.

Here is an complete list of the top newcomers in the Big 12 this season.

Corey Joseph (UT) - Corey Joseph reminds me a lot of former Longhorn Avery Bradley. Joseph isn't a true point guard but can lead the Longhorn attack. Not to mention, his scoring ability brings another dimension to the backcourt. Joseph's weak point is defense, but I see that improving with more minutes on the court. With the ball, Joseph is one of the most entertaining guards.

Perry Jones (BU) - Perry Jones, was the highest rated recruit to sign with the Baylor Bears. He has a 6-foot-10 frame, with the ability to play on the wing. He has the ability to handle the ball at 6-foot-10, which allows him to create mix-matches outside the paint. Every time the ball is in Jones hands Coach Scott Drew can expect production. With Jones at Baylor, the Bears are among the favorable teams with a chance to win the Big 12.

Josh Selby (KU) - Selby's scoring ability is favorable and creates problems for any opposition. His passing is improving, and playing with an experienced frontcourt will take pressure off the freshman. Selby is battling for eligibility but he is still one of the top newcomers. If eligible, Selby will have the chance to navigate a No. 7 ranked team in the nation. That would be too much pressure for most freshman, but not Selby.

Ricardo Ratliffe (MU) - Ricardo Ratliffe made Mizzou's recruiting class significant. With Ratliffe, and Tony Mitchell, the Tigers would have had one of the best frontcourts in the Big 12. With Mitchell not eligible expect even more contributions from Ratliffe. His ability to score the ball puts pressure on the opposition. Not to mention, his versatility always present problems. Ratliffe was selected by the coaches as the top newcomer, and could overtake Jones if Mizzou can get him a lot of touches.

Tristian Thompson (UT) - Thompson is one of the best frontier freshmen this season. Thompson can face up, or score with his back to the basket. Thompson attacks the rim, and finishes strong. He is a big-time threat down low. The lefty is a mix-match waiting to happen. With the ball in his hands, Coach Barnes can expect Thompson to make the right play.

Cameron Clark (OU) - Cameron Clark is one of those freshman that has the ability to take over the game with a blink of an eye. With Clark the sky is the limit. He is one of the most talented players the Sooner will embrace since Blake Griffin. His athletic ability is off the charts, and will benefit Jeff Cappel when the season starts. He is listed as a forward, but I could see him play the two-guard as well for Coach Capel.

Freddy Asprilla (KSU) - Freddy Asprilla, the transfer from Florida International, made his way to Kansas State with Frank Martin. Asprilla has made key strides to get in tip-top shape. K-State Head Coach Frank Martin loves his scoring ability on offense. But, his biggest improvement needs to come from the defensive end. The 6-foot-10 center has lost up to 60-pounds and is mobile as ever. With Asprilla, K-State's frontcourt is arguably the best in the Big 12.

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Kansas Jayhawks: A Freshman Changes Everything

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

The Kansas Jayhawks have consistently dominated College Basketball. Head Coach Bill Self always surrounds himself with elite talent to reload every year.

The Jayhawks lost three starters from last years squad but also had reserves and a highly-touted freshman to commend their efforts.

Josh Selby was considered the best player, and point guard overall by Rivals.com. Not to mention, he did a lot to back up the notion. Selby is one of the best scoring freshman this year.

However, Selby is still fighting for eligibility to play for the Jayhawks this season. Selby was considered to fill the shoes of former-Jayhawk Sherron Collins. Collins was the main distributor, scorer and leader of the team with 30-plus wins last season.

Selby was looked on to at least share the role of filling his huge shoes. Nonetheless, until he is granted eligibility, the Jayhawks aren't the same team that was selected to finish second overall in the Big 12 conference.

Without Selby leading the way, the Jayhawks lack the pure scoring, and presence of a marquee guard to run their offense. They still have Tyshawn Taylor, Elijah Johnson, and Travis Releford but none of these players can run the point at the college level.

They are all off-guards that commend the point guards efforts. However, with Selby the Jayhawks are among the best teams in the country.

Right now, Coach Self is still waiting for an official nod on the eligibility of his freshman guard. However, until then a freshman changes everything.

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It's Safe To Say That The Border Showdown Belongs To Two Freshmen

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Courier Journal Photo

The Border Showdown has been one of the most interesting rivalries in the Big 12. With Missouri and Kansas, it dates back to 1907.

Every since then, these two schools remained competitive with one another.

In 1972, Kansas had one of those seasons they wanted to forget. However, once they met Missouri, they seemed energized.

Kansas great, Bud Stallworth gave Allen Field house a reason to relive the season. He scored 50 points on Missouri in a 13-point victory.

In 2009, Kansas came out firing on Missouri. The game seemed to be over at the half. It was 30-16.

However, Missouri came out the half and gave it to the Jayhawks. With about a second left on the clock; Zaire Taylor hit a game-winner to sink the Jayhawks at the buzzer.

Now last season, the Border Showdown wasn’t competitive at all. The Jayhawks collectively, took it to the Tigers in both games. The Jayhawks acquired (84-65) and (77-56) victories.

But heading into next season, the Jayhawks and Tigers rivalry will intensify.

With Cole Aldrich, Sherron Collins and Xavier Henry, all off to their NBA careers, the Jayhawks are left without their top three contributors.

However, Missouri is in a similar situation. JT Tiller, Keith Ramsey and Zaire Taylor all graduated.

Meaning the Tigers and Jayhawks will have to flex their muscles with the talented freshman they acquired this off-season.

The Jayhawks pulled in two blue-chip recruits. Josh Selby was considered to be the best point guard in the 2010 class. To some, he is considered the best scorer. Nevertheless, Selby is an explosive guard that will enlighten the Jayhawks roster.

The Missouri Tiger pulled in the best recruiting class in the Big 12. There freshman Tony Mitchell will be a big-time player in the post. Not to mention, small Phil Pressey will be huge for the Tigers.

This all set up a great battle among the top teams in the Big 12. With their freshman leading the pack, the Tigers are looking to beat the Jayhawks for the first time since their Elite Eight run in 2008.

On the other hand, Woolridge and Selby are looking to maintain the success over the Tigers.

The Jayhawks leads the series with a (169-94) advantage. During the last decade, nothing changed. The Jayhawks came away with a (24-6) record over Missouri.

So, the Tigers are definitely the team with so much to prove. The Tigers haven’t defeated the Jayhawks at home since 08’ and in Lawrence since 99’.

Despite the numbers, I presume the Border Showdown will be interesting, regardless. 

(This is all assuming that Tony Mitchell will be eligible)

The Short Stint: Reviewing The Possible One-and-Done Players

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

Believe it or not, the one-and-done rule has gotten under a lot of people's skin.

The one-and-done players are usually the players that do not belong in the college game at all. These are the players that could have gone straight from high school to the NBA.

However, since the rule has incorporated, we have bad student-athletes, speculations, recruiting violations and more.

If you ask me, I think the one-and-done rule should be dead-and-gone. Forcing players to the college game is doing more bad than good. You have players that only pass their first semester classes then throw away the second semester.

That takes a toll on academics as well as the school’s reputation.

The Loss Of Collins, Aldrich, and Henry Not a Huge Blow For Kansas

Posted by CoHoops DeAnte Mitchell

The Kansas Jayhawks were equipped with one of the most talented and experienced groups in college basketball.

They had Cole Aldrich in the paint to block and rebound the ball. He was also used a lot in the pick-and-roll game, where he would slash to the basket for an alley-oop slam.

Xavier Henry was the aggressive slasher. He mostly set up for the three-balls on the wing but that didn't stop him from taking it to the basket on occasions. 

Then you had super bad Sherron Collins. He only stood 5-foot-11 but his heart made up for the lack of size. 

College Basketball: Kansas Recruit Josh Selby Breaks Hand

Over the past few hours, havoc and disparity have rushed through the city of Lawrence concerning the Big-10 and Pac-10 extensions. It almost looks as if the Big 12 will break up and teams will form the "Pac-16" although some teams might jump to the Big Ten.

The Kansas Jayhawks are not in the mix and in fact, neither the Big Ten nor Pac-10 is interested in them. This spells bad news for the Jayhawks because they are on the outside looking in.

To make things more difficult in Lawrence, their top recruit -which happens to be the number one overall player in this year's recruiting class- reportedly broke his hand during a pickup game. Okay, I’ll let you catch your breath.

Josh Selby was going to be "Mr. Do It All" for the Jayhawks back court. With Sherron Collins gone and no other leader to lean on, the Jayhawks need Selby to heal quickly and get ready for the College Basketball season fast.

Kansas Head Coach Bill Self doesn't think it's a big deal, in fact, he said that the injury shouldn't "set Selby back at all."

Well the broken hand will most likely sideline Selby for 4-6 weeks. This is more than enough time to heal and still get ready for the college basketball season. He has overcome an injury like this before- a slash in his hand that he had to get stitches for. That still didn't stop his production; he played right through it.

When asked about his injury Selby said, “I was once told that if you’re hurt, you can still play,” Selby said. “The only way you really can’t play is when you’re dead.”

Written by DeAnte Mitchell, edits by Rachel Cox