NCAA

Is Jamie Newman the Best SEC QB Next Year?

| wesleyuga1

A lot of buzzing coming from the University of Georgia mainly because of transfer Jamie Newman.

Newman transferred from Wake Forrest back in January. During his time at Wake Forrest, Newman put up 2868 yards and 26 TDS last year with a team that finished 7-5 and went 46th overall in recruiting. Newman will now have an explosive RB group and monster wideouts like George Pickens.

This will be the first time since 2005 (Dj Shockley) that Georgia has had a dual-threat QB. With Newman running the offense and a brand new OC, it will be fun to see how different the Bulldogs’ offense will look.

Georgetown Basketball Season Preview and Predictions

| HoopsPlace

Courtesy of @GeorgetownHoops Twitter

The Georgetown Hoyas went 19-14 last season while qualifying for the NIT. This was the first time Georgetown has qualified for postseason play since the 2014-2015 season. Georgetown returns 4 of 5 starters from last season and have newcomers that can fill the hole left by outgoing seniors Jessie Govan, Greg Malinowski, Kaleb Johnson, and Trey Mourning. Georgetown has the talent to finally break through and make the NCAA tournament, however youth, and inexperience could hurt their chances.

Omer Yurtseven will be named the to All Big-East 1st Team

Jessie Govan Georgetown’s leading scorer from last season has graduated and Patrick Ewing has to find a way to replace him. Yurtseven is the main candidate to fill in for Govan as the N.C. State transfer averaged 13.5 PPG and 6.7 RPG while shooting 57% from the field and 50% from three in the 2017-2018 season.

Josh LeBlanc will average 12 PPG

LeBlanc started last season coming off the bench but his hustle, heart, rebounding, and defense quickly forced Ewing to make a change in the starting lineup. LeBlanc’s tenacity and work on the offensive boards should help his scoring numbers jump.

James Akinjo will be a finalist for the Bob Cousy award

Akinjo was the Big East Freshman of the Year last season. Georgetown has lacked a true point guard ever since Markel Starks left and now they have one in Akinjo. Akinjo averaged 13.4 PPG while leading the Big East with 5.2 APG; he did all of this while playing hard physical defense. He was only a freshman last season so expect a huge breakout season where James Akinjo becomes a household name.

Myron Gardner becomes a starter

This prediction is bolder than the previous three however it may not be impossible. Gardner is an incoming freshman that was overlooked by many and is only a 3 star that’s ranked in the 200s does that remind you of anyone? *cough Mac McClung cough* It is no secret that the likely starter Jamorko Pickett had a rough sophomore slump in a season where he was benched multiple times. If Pickett continues to struggle coach Ewing may look elsewhere to fill a spot in the starting lineup. Ewing showed last year that he’s not scared to play freshman early and often so Gardener may jump Mosley and Alexander as the next man up if Pickett was to be benched.

Georgetown finish their non-conference schedule at 10-3

They finish 11-7 in the Big East.

In the end, the Hoyas finish at 21-10 and sneak into the NCAA tournament.

For More Georgetown Hoyas content check out our Q&A with Malcolm Wilson

https://thetalksportsmedia.com/2019/06/26/qa-with-georgetowns-malcolm-wilson/

Florida vs Miami Preview and Predictions

| HoopsPlace

The Florida Gators and Miami Hurricanes open up the college football season on ESPN this Saturday at 7:00 pm ET at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.

Florida is coming off a 10 win season in Dan Mullen’s first season in charge. Miami is entering their first season under Manny Diaz after Mark Richt announced his retirement following a disappointing 7-6 season. Both teams are expected to rely heavily on their strong defense, as both have question marks along the offensive line.

What to expect from Florida:

Expect Florida to try to set up the run early and often allowing Lamical Perrine, Dameon Pierce, and even Malik Davis to get a solid amount of carries. If the Gators are successful on the ground this will open up the deep play-action shots Mullen loves to take. Look for Felipe Franks to get the ball deep downfield to Trevon Grimes, Van Jefferson, and Tyrie Cleveland. If the offense struggles or is stagnant expect Mullen to find creative ways to get the ball to explosive play-maker Kadarius Toney. On defense, the gameplan will be simple stack the box, blitz and make redshirt freshman Jarren Williams beat them.

What to expect from Miami:

Miami will probably try to keep it simple in Jarren Williams’ first collegiate start so expect DeeJay Dallas and Cam’Ron Harris to get a ton of carries. K.J. Osborn and Jeff Thomas will have to deal with CJ Henderson and Marco Wilson, so expect Miami to try to attack the slot meaning Mike Harley may get a lot of targets. Miami has tons of talent on defense so expect Manny Diaz to get creative in hopes of disrupting Franks. Miami has the talent to pull off the upset the key will be is if they have the execution to take this week 0 match-up.

Score Prediction:

Gators win 21-17

For more Gators content check out our Florida Gators season preview and predictions.

https://twitter.com/TTalkWeb/status/1151134984368824323

Georgetown lands 4-Star Forward Terrance Williams

| HoopsPlace

Gonzaga forward Terrance Williams was first-team All-Met as a junior last season. (Jonathan Newton/The Washington Post)

https://twitter.com/_flyyt/status/1155992329896878088

Terrance Williams a Washington, DC native is currently a rising senior that plays for Gonzaga College High School, and Team Takeover on the AAU circuit. Williams is currently ranked as the 82nd player in the nation. Williams is a versatile forward that will most likely play the 3 and the 4 at the next level for Patrick Ewing. Williams can score inside but he also has a reliable shot from the outside. Williams figures to be another piece to add to Georgetown’s already young core. Georgetown only has one scholarship available for 2020-2021.

2019 Florida Football Season Preview and Predictions

| HoopsPlace

The Florida Gators in 2018 won 10 games while winning a New Year’s Six bowl in Dan Mullen’s first season in charge. Many play-makers on the offensive end return which could lead to an explosive offense led by Mullen. The Gators have the potential to win a lot of games and reach the college football playoffs but their weaknesses could easy derail their hopes.

Felipe Franks WILL throw for over 3000 yards.

Mullen tended get a little trigger happy and looked to constantly hit big plays. Franks has improved a lot since when he first arrived in Gainesville expect him to take another jump and hit on more big plays this season.

CJ Henderson is named a first-team All-American.

Henderson was often times the Gators best player last season; and he will continue his dominance next season and be recognized as one of the best corners in college football.

Kadarius Toney will have over 65 touches.

Toney only had 25 receptions and 21 rushing attempts last year which add up to only 46 touches all season. Toney earned the honor of wearing number one on offense so Mullen trusts him, so his touches will reflect Mullen’s increased trust.

Jonathon Greenard will finish with double digit sacks.

With the losses of Jachai Polite and Cece Jefferson the Gators need a new edge rusher to step up. Greenard had 7 sacks in 2017 for Lousiville, as one of the lead pass rushers for the Gators he gets at least 10 in 2019.

Week 0 vs Miami- Gators win 21-17

In this renewed rivalry emotions run high allowing Miami to stay in the game but in the end the Gators prove too much.

Week 1 Bye

Week 2 vs TN-Martin- Gators win 52-10

This game shouldn’t be competitive as the Gators cruise to an easy win.

Week 3 at Kentucky- Gators win 28-17

Kentucky broke the Gators historic win streak last season but the Gators get revenge, and start up a new winning streak.

Week 4 vs Tennessee- Gators win 35-14

Tennessee has struggled the last few seasons and their struggles continue against this Gators team.

Week 5 vs Towson- Gators win 63-7

The little FCS school from Maryland comes to “The Swamp” and gets completely outclassed.

Week 6 vs Auburn- Tigers win 24-16

The Gators start 5-0 but their weak offensive line can’t handle Auburn’s defensive line as they drop a SEC home game.

Week 7 at LSU- Gators win 24-21

Gators get a bounce-back win at home in another highly competitive game over rivals LSU.

Week 8 at South Carolina- Gators win 33-20

The Gators needed a huge come back to beat South Carolina last season but no such comeback is needed this season.

Week 9 Bye

Week 10 vs Georgia- Bulldogs win 34-20

Georgia has more talent and depth and at this point in the season it proves too much for the Gators to handle.

Week 11 vs Vandy- Gators win 17-14

Pesky Vandy always seems to give Florida problems and that remains true as the Gators barely squeak out a win.

Week 12 at Missouri- Gators win 28-14

Missouri is another team that seems to give Florida fits but Florida’s superior talent helps them pull out a tough road win.

Week 13 Bye

Week 14 vs FSU- Gators win a lot to a little

Gators beat the most irrelevant team in the nation.

New Orleans Pelicans, Duke Graduate Team?

| HoopsPlace

How It Started

The date was May 14th, 2019. That night in Chicago, the NBA Draft Lottery took place. The Pelicans had a 6% chance at winning the number one pick and the Lakers had a 2% chance of winning the number one pick. Although these teams didn’t have great odds at landing a top pick, they both ended up with a top pick. The first shock of the lottery was when the Cleveland Cavaliers and Phoenix Suns both didn’t land a top-three pick. It was a shock that the Cavs and Suns didn’t land in the top three picks because both teams had the highest chances (14%, along with the Knicks) to land the number one pick. After news of the Cavs and Suns falling out of the top 3, the Lakers then gained the fourth overall pick. After the Lakers won the number four pick, three teams had a shot at the number one pick, the New York Knicks (14%), Memphis Grizzlies (6%), and New Orleans Pelicans (6%). The Knicks then lost out on the first overall pick by gaining the third overall pick. The Pelicans then won the lottery after the Grizzlies were announced to have the second pick.

The Anthony Davis Trade

On June 15th, 2019, the Lakers and Pelicans agreed to a blockbuster trade. The Lakers received Anthony Davis while the Pelicans received Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, the 2019 fourth overall draft pick, 2021 first-round pick (top-eight protected), unprotected 2024 first-round pick, and the right to swap 2023 and 2025 first-round picks. This trade was a great trade for the Lakers because they now have a star to pair with LeBron James and are a more attractive free agent landing spot. This was a great package for the Pelicans because they will have a dominant young core for years to come.

The New Orleans Blue Devils

Before the Anthony Davis trade, the Pelicans already had Jahlil Okafor (2015 Duke player) and Frank Jackson (2016 Duke player). After winning the draft lottery, the Pelicans are 100% expected to take Zion Williamson. The Anthony Davis trade gives the Pelicans another Duke product in Brandon Ingram (2016 Duke player). If the Pelicans do keep the fourth overall pick or obtain another 2019 first-round pick, they could have the chance at another Blue Devil. If RJ Barrett falls past the third pick and the Pelicans keep the pick, expect RJ to be a Pelican. Even if RJ is taken in the top three and the Pelicans keep their pick, they could draft Cam Reddish. If the Pelicans trade a few spots back, they could still potentially have the chance at drafting Cam Reddish. If the Pelicans are able to draft RJ or Cam, 33% of their roster would have played at Duke.

Thanks for reading everybody! If you enjoyed, check out my instagram @dukembb.report for more!

Checking In On Duke Basketball Draft Prospects

| HoopsPlace

Author: Justin Girshon

Zion Williamson

Photo: Courant.com

Getting to know Zion:

Zion Williamson is the consensus number one overall pick in this years NBA Draft. Williamson was the second ranked recruit in the class of 2018 and a McDonald’s All American. Williamson is a 6 foot 7 inch forward who weighs 285 pounds who attended Spartanburg Day School for his High School education. Although Williamson is 285 pounds, he is faster than most guards and is an insane athlete. Williamson averaged 22.6 ppg, 8.9 rpg, 2.1 apg, 2.1 spg, and 1.8 bpg. As shown from his stats, Williamson can do it all.

Draft news and prediction:

Although Zion didn’t seem too thrilled about the Pelicans winning the NBA Draft Lottery, Zion quickly shot down rumors that he wouldn’t play for them. Zion hasn’t had any pre-draft workout news but has been offered to practice with USA Basketball over the summer. I predict Zion Williamson to be the number one overall pick in this years draft.

RJ Barrett

Photo: Lastwordonprobasketball.com

Getting to know RJ:

RJ Barrett was the top overall recruit of the 2018 class (yes, ranked ahead of Zion) and a McDonald’s All American. Barrett is a 6 foot 7 inch guard/forward who weighs roughly 200 pounds. Barrett attended Montverde Academy (Ben Simmons also went there) for his High School education. Barrett averaged 22.6 ppg, 7.6 rpg, 4.3 apg, while being the one constant starter throughout the season (Zion Williamson, Cam Reddish, Tre Jones, and Marques Bolden all got hurt). Barrett has a killer mindset and was given the nickname Maple Mamba because of it (Maple because he’s from Canada). Barrett has been learning about basketball throughout his whole life from his godfather Steve Nash (NBA Hall Of Fame Point Guard).

Draft news and prediction:

RJ Barrett has been hoping to be drafted by the Knicks. A couple of weeks ago, RJ denied working out for the Grizzlies (who hold the number two pick) in hopes of being drafted by the Knicks with the third pick. RJ recently worked out with the Knicks and later emphasized how much he wanted to be drafted by the organization. After his workout with the Knicks, RJ stated, “This is the place I want to be, I hope they draft me.” I think RJ’s wish will come true and the Knicks will draft him with the third overall pick.

Cam Reddish

Photo: Heavy.com

Getting to know Cam:

Cam Reddish was the number three overall recruit in the 2018 class (behind his teammates RJ and Zion) and a McDonald’s All American. Reddish is 6 foot 8 inch guard/forward who weighs about 210 pounds. Reddish was inconstant for the Blue Devils averaging 13.5 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 1.9 apg, shooting 35.6% from the field. Although Reddish’s numbers are subpar, he is still considered a top NBA draft prospect (see next paragraph for why he’s still a top prospect). Reddish attended the Westtown School for his High School education. In his Senior Year of High School, Reddish was named Mr. Pennsylvania Basketball for being the best player in the state.

Draft news and prediction:

Cam Reddish is the most difficult prospect in this class. Despite a disappointing Freshman season, Reddish is still a top prospect in this class. Basketball evaluators love Reddish’s measurements and think they will greatly benefit him for his NBA career. Reddish’s 7 foot 1 inch wingspan will help in on defense and his quick foot work will help create shots and get to the rim. Reddish had offseason core surgery, but is expected to be 100% by the start of the NBA season. Reddish is projected to be a top 10 pick in this draft. I think Reddish will fall somewhere in the 5-8 range and end up with Cavs (fifth pick) or Bulls (eight pick).

Marques Bolden

Photo: Bleacherreport.com

Getting to know Marques:

Marques Bolden was a five star recruit in the class of 2016 and a McDonald’s All American. Bolden is a 6 foot 11 inch center who weighs 250 pounds. Although he was a five star recruit, Bolden never lived up to the hype. Over his three year Duke career, Bolden averaged 3.8 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 1.1 bpg, while shooting 57.3% from the field. Bolden attended DeSoto for his High School education. In his senior, Bolden won Texas Mr. Basketball for being the best basketball player in the state.

Draft news and prediction:

Although Bolden was expected to stay at Duke or transfer, he decided to keep his name in the NBA Draft. Bolden has been very popular throughout the pre-draft process having workouts with the Knicks, Wizards, Lakers Celtics, Spurs, Thunder, and Kings. Although Bolden is getting lots of looks, I don’t think he will be in an NBA rotation next year. I predict Bolden to not be drafted or being drafted in the 50-60 range. Regardless of what happens to him in the draft, I believe Bolden will be plying in the Summer League and spend most of the season in the G-League.

Thanks for reading everybody! If you enjoyed, check out my instagram @dukembb.report for more! https://www.instagram.com/dukembb.report/

Ja Morant to Sign Multi-Year Deal with Nike

| HoopsPlace

On Monday, May 27th, it was announced that college phenom and potential top 3 pick in the coming NBA draft, Ja Morant, has signed a multi-year deal with Nike.

https://twitter.com/TTalkSports/status/1133033966653661185

Ja Morant has been consistently rising up NBA draft boards since the very beginning of his one season at Murray State. The Memphis Grizzlies(#2 pick) have expressed interest in taking the high-flying guard at the second overall pick over Dukes’ RJ Barrett. Regardless of where Ja may fall in the 2019 NBA Draft, he is still VERY much so worthy of this multi-year deal with Nike. If you have yet to see Ja play, I highly recommend watching this:

Not only is this a big deal for Nike, but for general NBA fans as well. Given that consensus #1 pick, Zion Williamson has yet to sign a deal, this may play a large factor to whom he chooses to join. It has been rumored that Zion will be receiving the largest deal in history regardless of who he signs with, so money is obviously not the biggest worry for the Duke star. It is mainly a deal of interest and who can offer the most potential for the Zion brand. Being former AAU teammates and childhood friends, both Ja and Zion do seem to have a close connection. Could Ja Morants’ deal with Nike effect where Zion will sign? Only time will tell…

Halftime Review: Virginia vs Texas Tech

| HoopsPlace
Image via Tom Pennington/Getty

After a SLOW start for both Virginia(1) and Texas Tech(3) scoring just 5 points combined in the first 5 minutes, the squads finally got it going.

Virginia: 32

Texas Tech: 29

https://twitter.com/TTalkSports/status/1115426948757504001

Scoring Leaders:

Kyle Guy: 10 PTS    4/7 FG

Brandone Francis: 8 PTS    3/4 FG

FULL BOX SCORE:


What looked to be a very low scoring affair is slowly turning into a fun game to watch. It was apparent that both teams came out with nerves, but once they got settled, both teams seemed to hit their stride. With the Texas Tech bench firing on all cylinders and Virginia’s Kyle Guy beginning to heat up, this is looking to be a more entertaining game than some expected!

Prediction:

Virginia: 68       Texas Tech: 62

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