6th Man of St. John's Basketball
St. John's Red Storm => Recruiting Archives => Recruiting => 2011 Class => Topic started by: jumpinjohnny on July 07, 2010, 08:56:42 PM
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http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/How-junior-college-star-God-s-Gift-Achiuwa-got-h?urn=ncaab,253762 (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/How-junior-college-star-God-s-Gift-Achiuwa-got-h?urn=ncaab,253762)
http://www.zagsblog.com/2010/07/04/gods-gift-to-basketball/ (http://www.zagsblog.com/2010/07/04/gods-gift-to-basketball/)
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http://purdue.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1106072 (http://purdue.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1106072)
LAS VEGAS- There's never been a shortage of high school talent each July in Vegas, this year Justin Phelps organized the first All-American Juco Showcase at Liberty High School. With many of the country's top junior college recruits in attendance we decided to spend a day checking out the action.
God's Gift Achiuwa, PF, Erie College- Recently profiled on yahoo sports, Achiuwa is a powerfully built 6-foot-8 insider who plays very hard. He's most comfortable operating around the rim, runs the floor and can step out to make some medium range jumpers though he has to be careful not to float out there too much. A spot on a high major roster is assuredly in his future.
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http://www.lvrj.com/sports/nigerian-forward-slams-junior-college-stereotype-99190694.html?ref=694 (http://www.lvrj.com/sports/nigerian-forward-slams-junior-college-stereotype-99190694.html?ref=694)
FWIW, Tristan told me this kid said St. John's was at the top of his list.
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http://purdue.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1106072 (http://purdue.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1106072)
God’s Gift Achiuwa, PF, Erie College- Recently profiled on yahoo sports, Achiuwa is a powerfully built 6-foot-8 insider who plays very hard. He’s most comfortable operating around the rim, runs the floor and can step out to make some medium range jumpers though he has to be careful not to float out there too much. A spot on a high major roster is assuredly in his future.
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http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/How-junior-college-star-God-s-Gift-Achiuwa-got-h?urn=ncaab-253762 (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/How-junior-college-star-God-s-Gift-Achiuwa-got-h?urn=ncaab-253762)
In the nine months since Nwora discovered Achiuwa at an annual camp the coach runs in Nigeria and brought him back to Erie, the bruising power forward has tried to make sure he's known for more than just his name. He averaged 13.1 points, 13.5 rebounds and two blocks per game as a freshman, earning third-team all-American honors and helping lead Erie to a 27-2 record.
Achiuwa has also excelled in the classroom at Erie, earning a 4.0 GPA in the fall semester and a 3.8 in the spring.
http://www.lvrj.com/sports/nigerian-forward-slams-junior-college-stereotype-99190694.html (http://www.lvrj.com/sports/nigerian-forward-slams-junior-college-stereotype-99190694.html)
The 6-foot-9-inch power forward from Erie Community College (N.Y.) was one of the brightest stars of the inaugural All-American Junior College Showcase at Liberty High School.
He earned a starting spot in Saturday's Top 20 All-Star Finale, which showcased the top 20 prospects out of the 104 players from around the country invited to the event.
I'm liking the sound of this kid more.- Has he been on campus ?
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God I hope we land this kid! He would also come in as a Junior I believe which would help with the schoolie distribution.
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I really can't believe this kids name is gods gift...what do people call him for short...God...cmon...
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Next year we could have God in Queens, and Jesus in the Bronx.
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I really can't believe this kids name is gods gift...what do people call him for short...God...cmon...
His nickname is Holy Spirit :)
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I really can't believe this kids name is gods gift...what do people call him for short...God...cmon...
I can't believe I'm wasting any memory power on this, but the author, who is a friend, told me that some of his teammates call him "GG" or "G" for short on the court. He's a devoted Catholic.
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http://www.zagsblog.com/2010/10/06/gods-gift-will-sign-in-april/ (http://www.zagsblog.com/2010/10/06/gods-gift-will-sign-in-april/)
Highlights: GG will sign in April; Chiles and Lavin went to see him last week; is being looked at by Ohio State, Cincinnati, St. John’s, N.C. State, Marquette, Hawaii and Niagara; and for what it's worth, his Erie CC coach says:
“I think he’s one of the best power forwards in the country right now,” Nwora said. “I’ve been in junior college for 12 years. This is my 22nd year in the U.S. Out of all the kids I’ve come across, he’s the one that has a very good chance of getting drafted.
“If he keeps doing what he’s doing, he’s got a good chance of getting looked at by a scout.”
Nwora didn’t rule out that the possibility that Achiuwa could go pro after this year instead of attending college.
“He’s that good,” he said. “The kid doesn’t stop working. Somebody could come after him to get into the draft.”
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God's Gift is the next player I would like to see us lock up.
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God's Gift is the next player I would like to see us lock up.
I guess you're not looking for another commitment 'til the spring. His coach mentioned, God's Gift will be a spring commitment.
I know things can change, but it seems he'll announce in the spring.
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His name is God's Gift and he's a devoted Catholic....how can SAINT John's lose? LOL
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^ true story lol
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First 2 games for God's Gift averaging 17.5PPG 11 REB 3.5 BL....surprised to see him attempting a few 3s in the last game.
God’s Gift Achiuwa (Nigeria/Sure Foundation) had 16 points, 11 rebounds and three blocked shots.
ACHIUWA, God's Gift 6-13 4-6 16; 0-1 from 3 point line.
God’s Gift Achiuwa (Nigeria/Sure Foundation), who finished with 19 points, 11 rebounds and four blocked shots on his way to all-tournament honors, sank one of two foul shots with 59 seconds remaining.
God's Gift 6-14 5-8 19; 2-3 from 3 point line.
http://www.ecc.edu/about/newsEvents/newsDetails.aspx?Channel=%2fChannels%2fCampus+Wide&WorkflowItemID=5f2873af-1697-4137-b7f5-d0b439608a7b (http://www.ecc.edu/about/newsEvents/newsDetails.aspx?Channel=%2fChannels%2fCampus+Wide&WorkflowItemID=5f2873af-1697-4137-b7f5-d0b439608a7b)
http://www.ecc.edu/about/newsEvents/newsDetails.aspx?Channel=%2fChannels%2fCampus+Wide&WorkflowItemID=b9188071-9fd0-489c-8ab6-c7991d55f854 (http://www.ecc.edu/about/newsEvents/newsDetails.aspx?Channel=%2fChannels%2fCampus+Wide&WorkflowItemID=b9188071-9fd0-489c-8ab6-c7991d55f854)
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First 2 games for God's Gift averaging 17.5PPG 11 REB 3.5 BL....surprised to see him attempting a few 3s in the last game.
God’s Gift Achiuwa (Nigeria/Sure Foundation) had 16 points, 11 rebounds and three blocked shots.
ACHIUWA, God's Gift 6-13 4-6 16; 0-1 from 3 point line.
God’s Gift Achiuwa (Nigeria/Sure Foundation), who finished with 19 points, 11 rebounds and four blocked shots on his way to all-tournament honors, sank one of two foul shots with 59 seconds remaining.
God's Gift 6-14 5-8 19; 2-3 from 3 point line.
http://www.ecc.edu/about/newsEvents/newsDetails.aspx?Channel=%2fChannels%2fCampus+Wide&WorkflowItemID=5f2873af-1697-4137-b7f5-d0b439608a7b (http://www.ecc.edu/about/newsEvents/newsDetails.aspx?Channel=%2fChannels%2fCampus+Wide&WorkflowItemID=5f2873af-1697-4137-b7f5-d0b439608a7b)
http://www.ecc.edu/about/newsEvents/newsDetails.aspx?Channel=%2fChannels%2fCampus+Wide&WorkflowItemID=b9188071-9fd0-489c-8ab6-c7991d55f854 (http://www.ecc.edu/about/newsEvents/newsDetails.aspx?Channel=%2fChannels%2fCampus+Wide&WorkflowItemID=b9188071-9fd0-489c-8ab6-c7991d55f854)
I like the rebound totals. I'm going to try to get to at least one of his games this season and see what kind of talent he has.
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Through 5 games now:
http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_player.cfm?sid=5&collegeid=1662&category=Roster&slid=2&teamid=106519&athleteid=283962 (http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_player.cfm?sid=5&collegeid=1662&category=Roster&slid=2&teamid=106519&athleteid=283962)
Averaging 18 ppg, 13.6 reb, 26 blocks! (5/game) and taken 26 f/t (62%)
very good stats, but with Meikle on board...... ?
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Through 5 games now:
http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_player.cfm?sid=5&collegeid=1662&category=Roster&slid=2&teamid=106519&athleteid=283962 (http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_player.cfm?sid=5&collegeid=1662&category=Roster&slid=2&teamid=106519&athleteid=283962)
Averaging 18 ppg, 13.6 reb, 26 blocks! (5/game) and taken 26 f/t (62%)
very good stats, but with Meikle on board...... ?
There is room for him I think if we don't land Chandler. We need another big body still and why not a JUCO to even out the scholarships.
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http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_home.cfm?collegeId=1662 (http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_home.cfm?collegeId=1662)
BUFFALO, N.Y. - (Jan. 18) - Erie Community College men's basketball player God's Gift Achiuwa
has been named the Region III male co-Athlete of the Week today by the league office.
Achuiwa, a sophomore forward from Port Harcourt, River States, Nigeria, recorded his ninth and
10th double-doubles of the season as the Kats improved to 12-1 with wins over Niagara County
Community College and Jamestown Community College-Cattaraugus Campus.
He scored a total of 50 points and snared 29 rebounds in the two wins.
But we've really heard no mention of SJU & visits ?
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i just want to see what the kid looks like. we need some beef
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i just want to see what the kid looks like. we need some beef
He has good size. But he's raw.
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We need size, and bulk. We have zero bulk.
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This kid rebounds and blocks shots. We will have lenght as a team but no bulk and these kids will get pushed around next year in BE play. I hope we land this kid.
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St. John’s coach Steve Lavin has already received nine gifts for next season.
Will God’s Gift be next?
http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/01/20/st-johns-still-trying-to-land-gods-gift/ (http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/01/20/st-johns-still-trying-to-land-gods-gift/)
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Wow, he's putting up some monster numbers on one of the best Juco teams in the country. We still need a big desperately and getting him vs some guy who just has size should make a big difference, especially in year two when the young recruits arent inexperienced in the big east.
It's good to see we are in good shape with him. Kentucky calling is a concern though.
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Erie is D2 JC. What is the dropoff from D1 (Redlands) to D2 Erie? For instance Erie's only loss (a whooping) was to D1 Monroe College.
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Erie is D2 JC. What is the dropoff from D1 (Redlands) to D2 Erie? For instance Erie's only loss (a whooping) was to D1 Monroe College.
Did not know that, certainly makes a difference. Thanks for the clarification.
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Erie is D2 JC. What is the dropoff from D1 (Redlands) to D2 Erie? For instance Erie's only loss (a whooping) was to D1 Monroe College.
It really depends on the program. Sullivan CC is NCJAA D3 and they regularly beatup on both NJCAA D1's and D2's. Sullivan actually went out to Idaho this season and lost by 10 in a close game to #8 ranked of D1 College of Southern Idaho at their place. Erie is not particularly strong and its comp is pretty weak. Most of the kids in the region are NCAA D2 players at best.
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Achiuwa averaging 23.4 points, 12.3 rebounds and 2.3 blocks with .619 field goal percentage and .592 free throw percentage.
http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_stats.cfm?sid=5&collegeid=1662&slid=2&category=Stats (http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_stats.cfm?sid=5&collegeid=1662&slid=2&category=Stats)
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Achiuwa Scores 39 to Power Kats Past Monroe CC
February 8, 2011
BUFFALO - Feb. 8 - Erie Community College sophomore forward God's Gift Achiuwa (Port Harcourt, River States, Nigeria) recorded his 18th double-double of the season with a season-high 39 points and 15 rebounds to carry the Kats past Monroe Community College 95-69 Tuesday night at the Flickinger Center. ECC improves to 21-2 overall and 10-1 in Western New York Athletic Conference play while Monroe CC is now 15-8 and 7-2.
http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_home.cfm?collegeId=1662 (http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_home.cfm?collegeId=1662)
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This guy would fit in awesome with this class. The only thing we are lacking is a big man with some beef down low who can rebound and God's Gift looks like he could be that guy.
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Here's the box score...15-16 from the line
http://www.monroecc.edu/depts/athletics/basketball-m/ecc-mcc2_000.htm (http://www.monroecc.edu/depts/athletics/basketball-m/ecc-mcc2_000.htm)
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http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/columns/bob-dicesare/article338430.ece (http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/columns/bob-dicesare/article338430.ece)
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Does anyone else think that where God goes his current coach will go also?
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Does anyone else think that where God goes his current coach will go also?
Coach can't go unless he goes in as one of a team's top-4 coaches - no one's likely to offer that to him.
Actually, I think the loophole - used by Scott Drew, I think? No, Tim Floyd. I get my shady middle-aged men confused - is to hire the guy after the recruit has signed. I think that's still allowed by the NCAA bylaws.
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Does anyone else think that where God goes his current coach will go also?
Coach can't go unless he goes in as one of a team's top-4 coaches - no one's likely to offer that to him.
Actually, I think the loophole - used by Scott Drew, I think? No, Tim Floyd. I get my shady middle-aged men confused - is to hire the guy after the recruit has signed. I think that's still allowed by the NCAA bylaws.
Can't hire him 2 years before or after the recruit arrives.
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Does anyone else think that where God goes his current coach will go also?
Coach can't go unless he goes in as one of a team's top-4 coaches - no one's likely to offer that to him.
Actually, I think the loophole - used by Scott Drew, I think? No, Tim Floyd. I get my shady middle-aged men confused - is to hire the guy after the recruit has signed. I think that's still allowed by the NCAA bylaws.
Can't hire him 2 years before or after the recruit arrives.
Maybe Floyd did that before the rule was in effect? And it doesn't apply if the coach brought in is one of the top-4 coaches - I believe. I'll look it up later.
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Does anyone else think that where God goes his current coach will go also?
Coach can't go unless he goes in as one of a team's top-4 coaches - no one's likely to offer that to him.
Actually, I think the loophole - used by Scott Drew, I think? No, Tim Floyd. I get my shady middle-aged men confused - is to hire the guy after the recruit has signed. I think that's still allowed by the NCAA bylaws.
Can't hire him 2 years before or after the recruit arrives.
Maybe Floyd did that before the rule was in effect? And it doesn't apply if the coach brought in is one of the top-4 coaches - I believe. I'll look it up later.
You're right only basketball of operations or one of the 10 make believe admin positions Calipari created at Memphis would cause a problem. But the rule was written to prevent that loophole of hiring the coach after the player signs.
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ECC's Achiuwa Chosen Region III Player of the Year
February 26, 2011
BUFFALO, N.Y. – Feb. 26 – Erie Community College sophomore forward God's Gift Achiuwa (Port Harcourt, River States, Nigeria/Sure Foundation) was named 2011 NJCAA Division II Region III Player of the Year Saturday. Achiuwa, who was also the 2010 Region III Player of the Year, averaged 23.7 points and 12 rebounds per game. He was named the Region II Player of the Week three times this season.
http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_home.cfm?collegeId=1662 (http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_home.cfm?collegeId=1662)
Achiuwa's team advanced to the to NJCAA National Championships.... He didn't shoot it well from the field (this particular game), but he was still named the tournament's MVP.
The All-Region III Tournament team consisted of: Lorenzo Joseph, Niagara County CC; Kevin Nascimento, Genesee CC; Aaron Williams, Monroe CC; Jones, Emmitt and Achiuwa. Achiuwa was named the tournament’s most valuable player.
http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_home.cfm?collegeId=1662 (http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_home.cfm?collegeId=1662)
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He will be playing on Wednesday March 16 at 11AM in the D-2 junior college tournament.
http://www.ecc.edu/about/newsEvents/newsDetails.aspx?Channel=%2fChannels%2fCampus+Wide&WorkflowItemID=64c3ddc5-0705-44d4-b2ed-11d409dbef26 (http://www.ecc.edu/about/newsEvents/newsDetails.aspx?Channel=%2fChannels%2fCampus+Wide&WorkflowItemID=64c3ddc5-0705-44d4-b2ed-11d409dbef26)
He has averaged 22.3 points 12.0 rebounds 2.3 blocks.
He is 10-27 from 3 point line 37% clip which isn't bad at all.
60% overall FG% and 63% FT
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Why hasn't he made a decision yet? What's the hold up?
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Why hasn't he made a decision yet? What's the hold up?
He and his coach have said all year they wouldnt start visiting till the Spring.
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That coach has limited his options
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That coach has limited his options
That might be a good thing for us. At this point, we aren't in a big hurry to fill that last scholly, so we can afford to wait for him to decide.
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http://www.ihigh.com/jcbca/broadcast_154766.html?silverlight=1 (http://www.ihigh.com/jcbca/broadcast_154766.html?silverlight=1)
Here's a stream of his game today. They won 85-78.
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He ended up with 15 and 11 but was only 5-15 from the field.
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He plays at 8:30 tonight
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St. John's needs this kid badly, strictly for size
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Hit the game winner with 9 seconds left and went for 14 and 11 in a 1 point win. Only went 4-14 though. He plays tomorrow at 8:30 in the semifinals. Video hasn't been archived yet.
"God’s Gift Achiuwa followed up with strong finish to cut Luisburg’s lead
to 75-73 with just under 2 minutes to play. With 33 seconds left, Achiuwa made 1 of 2 free
throws to close Louisburg’s lead to 75-74. Louisburg missed a lay-up on the ensuing possession
and Erie got the rebound. Immediately after, Erie missed a quick shot from the elbow but
God’s Gift Achiuwa got the rebound and banked it in to take a 76-75 lead with 9 seconds left."
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They lost 90-72. He had 7 points and 3 rebounds. I believe they have 1 more game for 3rd place tomorrow.
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Reached by phone, Nwora said God’s Gift was not close to making a college decision.
“He hasn’t even taken his visits,” Nwora said. We’re gonna finish up. We’re here to win a national championship. We’re not worried about anybody now.
“After we’re done we’re going to sit down ad see which schools he’s going to be visiting.”
Nwora said Cincinnati, St. John’s, West Virginia, Washington, Rhode Island and Niagara were in the hunt.
“Those are the ones that have really serious interest,” he said.
Kentucky has also shown interest.
“They’re still playing so they haven’t been out to see him,” Nwora said, “but they’re still interested.”
http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/03/18/gods-gift-still-mulling-decision/#more-48990 (http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/03/18/gods-gift-still-mulling-decision/#more-48990)
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He was mentioned as unsigned but he was mentioned as a St.John's recruit in the NY Post.
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I do hope he can hang and bang in the Big East. Those shooting percentages aren't encouraging.
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We need him to come in, play defense and rebound.
And we'll need more than one big man. I love the hype that our class is getting, but without any size what's the BE gonna do to us?
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We need him to come in, play defense and rebound.
And we'll need more than one big man. I love the hype that our class is getting, but without any size what's the BE gonna do to us?
The same thing GOnzaga did to us
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They lost 102-98 in the consolation game. He went for 25 and 14 but on only 6 of 18 shooting(12 of 14 from the FT though)
http://www.njcaa.org/newsArticle.cfm?articleId=14105 (http://www.njcaa.org/newsArticle.cfm?articleId=14105)
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Exactly Baldi, they ate us alive, and we were so nice about.
Let's this the last year that the NCAAs are the goal.
You make that the goal, and it's as far you'll get.
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I still don't want this kid. Too raw and too late in his career for us to take a chance on. Let's get Ashoulo from La Tech for his last season and then use the 'ship in 2012 to go after a top 20 big man.
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I still don't want this kid. Too raw and too late in his career for us to take a chance on. Let's get Ashoulo from La Tech for his last season and then use the 'ship in 2012 to go after a top 20 big man.
Not sure how in tuned Alex Kline is into the situation, but it seems you may not get your wish.
St. John's is looking to make scholarships available for 2012 stars Kyle Anderson & Ricardo Gathers, as well as God's Gift '11.
[tweet]http://twitter.com/TheRecruitScoop/status/50965963130159104[/tweet]
I've thought for the last month or so that God's Gift is ours to lose. Going forward (towards the 2012 class), I'd definitely love to nab Anderson and Gathers. A 2012 class of Anderson, Gathers and Thomas would be incredible. Adding those guys to the 2011 class coud put us in a position to do some serious damage in 2012-2013.
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I'm not that impressed with him either but we definitely need some kind of beef next year. As far as schollies go even if Stith goes we still would not have room for all 3. Unless the staff thinks Thomas will need another year
11 man class in 2011 + 3 man class in 2012 puts us one over the limit and thats assuming Stith goes. Maybe they are real confident we have some one and dones? I don't see that one stud that could jump to the NBA though.
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I still don't want this kid. Too raw and too late in his career for us to take a chance on. Let's get Ashoulo from La Tech for his last season and then use the 'ship in 2012 to go after a top 20 big man.
Not sure how in tuned Alex Kline is into the situation, but it seems you may not get your wish.
St. John's is looking to make scholarships available for 2012 stars Kyle Anderson & Ricardo Gathers, as well as God's Gift '11.
[tweet]http://twitter.com/TheRecruitScoop/status/50965963130159104[/tweet]
I've thought for the last month or so that God's Gift is ours to lose. Going forward (towards the 2012 class), I'd definitely love to nab Anderson and Gathers. A 2012 class of Anderson, Gathers and Thomas would be incredible. Adding those guys to the 2011 class coud put us in a position to do some serious damage in 2012-2013.
I still don't want this kid. Too raw and too late in his career for us to take a chance on. Let's get Ashoulo from La Tech for his last season and then use the 'ship in 2012 to go after a top 20 big man.
Not sure how in tuned Alex Kline is into the situation, but it seems you may not get your wish.
St. John's is looking to make scholarships available for 2012 stars Kyle Anderson & Ricardo Gathers, as well as God's Gift '11.
[tweet]http://twitter.com/TheRecruitScoop/status/50965963130159104[/tweet]
I've thought for the last month or so that God's Gift is ours to lose. Going forward (towards the 2012 class), I'd definitely love to nab Anderson and Gathers. A 2012 class of Anderson, Gathers and Thomas would be incredible. Adding those guys to the 2011 class coud put us in a position to do some serious damage in 2012-2013.
Based on the current class coming in, I don't see how this is possible. Is there something that I'm missing?
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http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_player.cfm?category=stats&sid=5&divid=2&slid=2&collegeId=1662&teamid=106519&athleteid=283962&seasonselect=503 (http://www.njcaa.org/colleges_college_player.cfm?category=stats&sid=5&divid=2&slid=2&collegeId=1662&teamid=106519&athleteid=283962&seasonselect=503)
god's gifts game by game stats
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http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/03/28/gods-gift-planning-visits/ (http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/03/28/gods-gift-planning-visits/)
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http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/04/13/gods-gift-sets-two-more-visits/#more-50636 (http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/04/13/gods-gift-sets-two-more-visits/#more-50636)
GG will be visiting Washington this weekend and St. John's Easter weekend.
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http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/04/13/gods-gift-sets-two-more-visits/#more-50636 (http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/04/13/gods-gift-sets-two-more-visits/#more-50636)
GG will be visiting Washington this weekend and St. John's Easter weekend.
Sounds good! Hopefully, we're his last visit and he decides to commit soon afterwards.
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As per Zags tweet,
"Cheikh Mbodj, a 6-10 big man from Grayson County JC, has verbally committed to Cincinnatti."
I wonder if this takes them out of the GG chase?
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As per Zags tweet,
"Cheikh Mbodj, a 6-10 big man from Grayson County JC, has verbally committed to Cincinnatti."
I wonder if this takes them out of the GG chase?
GG is SJU's if they want him is what I hear. He has been an SJU lean for months.
BTW-God visiting a Roman Catholic school on the weekend that we celebrate the death and resurrection of our savior. Kinda has a nice synergy to it, no???!!! LOL!!!
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GG is SJU's if they want him is what I hear. He has been an SJU lean for months.
BTW-God visiting a Roman Catholic school on the weekend that we celebrate the death and resurrection of our savior. Kinda has a nice synergy to it, no???!!! LOL!!!
Fordham do you think there is a possibility that SJU doesn't want GG? Does it have anything to do with what they think their chances are with Gathers and Anderson next year?
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GG is SJU's if they want him is what I hear. He has been an SJU lean for months.
BTW-God visiting a Roman Catholic school on the weekend that we celebrate the death and resurrection of our savior. Kinda has a nice synergy to it, no???!!! LOL!!!
Fordham do you think there is a possibility that SJU doesn't want GG? Does it have anything to do with what they think their chances are with Gathers and Anderson next year?
Yes it is possible. I don't want to use the phrase "don't want" but rather they have decided to pursue other options even as you indicate 2012.
I still think more than likely he or Jamari are added as late signees.
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Who is Jamari?
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Who is Jamari?
Jamari Traylor
http://johnnyjungle.com/forum/index.php?topic=5110.0 (http://johnnyjungle.com/forum/index.php?topic=5110.0)
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Not sure if this posted yet but GG was named an All American in NJCAA Division II
http://www.njcaa.org/sports_awards.cfm?category=Award%20Winners&sid=5&divid=2&slid=2 (http://www.njcaa.org/sports_awards.cfm?category=Award%20Winners&sid=5&divid=2&slid=2)
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Any word on how his Washington trip went last weekend?
Seems to be us or them.
Obviously a major problem last season was rebounding and hopefully he at least could/would be a major part of the solution.
Steve seems to juggle the lineup but for an all-rebounding mix how about maybe once in a while ...Pelle/Gods gift/Sampson/Garrett/Harrison?
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Update on Rivals.com on his upcoming visit this weekend to SJU. Maurice Wingate really does not add anything new to hwat we already know:
http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1213681 (http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1213681)
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Update on Rivals.com on his upcoming visit this weekend to SJU. Maurice Wingate really does not add anything new to hwat we already know:
http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1213681 (http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1213681)
Just maybe that URI and Charlotte are pining for a visit but no indications as to whether or not there are any more scheduled after STJ.
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If you think Steve Lavin's decision to announce he was going to begin treatment for prostate cancer was going to slow down the 46-year-old coach, think again.
Lavin is giving up his Easter weekend in the hopes of getting highly rated big man God's Gift Achiuwa to sign with St. John's. Achiuwa, a 6-foot-8 power forward from Eric Community College, already has visited Cincinnati. He will visit Washington this weekend and St. John's the following week.
The Red Storm also are very interested in 6-8 post man Jamari Traylor of Chicago who is enrolled at IMG Academy in Florida. Traylor has Indiana, Kansas and Mississippi State high on his list.
Read more: http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/college/basketball/st_john_geared_up_for_possible_gift_P7S35w0mXO8eJqrjKTmu4O#ixzz1K0rZd0Av (http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/college/basketball/st_john_geared_up_for_possible_gift_P7S35w0mXO8eJqrjKTmu4O#ixzz1K0rZd0Av)
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Idealy they would like to add both God's Gift and Traylor? I never thought of that possibility and im not sure if i believe it. I dont think steve would risk taking a chance on losing out on Gathers, now that kidis an absolute big east ready big.
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I get the feeling Lavin wanted Traylor more, but since it seems like he's now enthralled with Oklahoma State GGA is now back on top for SJU.
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Traylor is coming in officially at about 6'6.5" per the Under Armor combine he was measured at this year. I'm just not sure that another 6'6" kid is what we need at this point. If it was in lieu of Meikle, then I'd say fantastic, but we really need a post guy with some reasonable amount of height. God's Gift is more in the range of 6'8"-6'9" and more of a PF/C. He also spreads our ships out a bit. If we didn't get a commit from Meikle, then Traylor sounds like a great fit. As it stands though, we don't need another sub-6'8" player IMO.
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I get the feeling Lavin wanted Traylor more, but since it seems like he's now enthralled with Oklahoma State GGA is now back on top for SJU.
Where was it said that Traylor was enthralled with OK State?
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He did an interview with the Okie St scout.com site after his visit and gave it a 10.
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if gods gift arrives on friday will he be at the knicks playoff game?
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Here is the Seattle Times blog from yesterday on his visit to UW.
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskymensbasketballblog/2014813005_gods_gift_achiu_1.html?syndication=rss (http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskymensbasketballblog/2014813005_gods_gift_achiu_1.html?syndication=rss)
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Alex Schwartz of Rivals.com has a story today on GG. He basically said he is considering SJU, Cincy and Washington:
http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1214039 (http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1214039)
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Alex Schwartz of Rivals.com has a story today on GG. He basically said he is considering SJU, Cincy and Washington:
http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1214039 (http://rivalshoops.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1214039)
Uhhhh
"A combo forward who sees himself as "more of a three,"
I watched him play and he is no three. And I don't like how he is thinking that.
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Yep, he's the perfect 4 to complete the Ark. It has to be destiny to have 5 "pairs" of recruits to 10... God's Gift will improve so much in practice with all the guys practicing and playing so hard. That is where players improve the most, so it makes sense to go with the staff that will develop him the quickest and best for the NBA/Europe. SJ staff excels at that, that's why the floodgates opened...get the Ark ready! We need it after all this rain!
Uhhhh
"A combo forward who sees himself as "more of a three,"
I watched him play and he is no three. And I don't like how he is thinking that.
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From ESPN.com Rumors section-
http://insider.espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/features/rumors (http://insider.espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/features/rumors)
A fourth team in the mix for God's Gift?
Kentucky may be entering the picture for God's Gift Achiuwa (Erie Community College).
The Wildcats reportedly contacted Achiuwa in early April and today's New York Post mentions that the JUCO power forward "could get involved with Kentucky."
If coach John Calipari gets involved, his history as a recruits tells us that this could mean bad news for the other three finalists -- Washington, Cincinnati and St. John's.
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From ESPN.com Rumors section-
http://insider.espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/features/rumors (http://insider.espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/features/rumors)
A fourth team in the mix for God's Gift?
Kentucky may be entering the picture for God's Gift Achiuwa (Erie Community College).
The Wildcats reportedly contacted Achiuwa in early April and today's New York Post mentions that the JUCO power forward "could get involved with Kentucky."
If coach John Calipari gets involved, his history as a recruits tells us that this could mean bad news for the other three finalists -- Washington, Cincinnati and St. John's.
In the past I would be worried, but not now. This kid seems to be involved with the teams that have been on him for a while. He doesn't seem to be jumping for new squads. I still think he get him.
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Nurideen Lindsey was also involved with Kentucky ;)
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The site Juco Recruiting says that Rhode Island and Charlotte could get involved. And that there's no chance he'd be a 3.
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Nurideen Lindsey was also involved with Kentucky ;)
Not according to UK fans. Getting looked at is very different that beating UK out. I hope they do take GG, because I don't want him in Queens. Give me Taylor or Ashoulu or save it for next season.
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I hope they do take GG, because I don't want him in Queens. Give me Taylor or Ashoulu or save it for next season.
LOL I'm laughing at your comment about GG. I'd have no problem about taking Traylor. But I have a hunch he's gonna end up in either Kansas or Oklahoma State.
Honestly, it wouldn't bother me if we didn't end up with God's Gift, but it surely wouldn't bother me to garner his services.
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Can someone explain why GG's scout grade at ESPN is only 40? Also, I noticed that ESPN dropped SJU's 2011 class down to 3 after Meikle was released (any correlation, or did Duke sign somebody else?).
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Nurideen Lindsey was also involved with Kentucky ;)
Not according to UK fans. Getting looked at is very different that beating UK out. I hope they do take GG, because I don't want him in Queens. Give me Taylor or Ashoulu or save it for next season.
Marillac why don't you want GG? I'm guessing you haven't seen him play live and he doesn't have a highlight video so what are you basing your claims on? Just wondering because he is a JUCO all american and would seem to fit our needs and help with the scholarship distribution.
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Can someone explain why GG's scout grade at ESPN is only 40? Also, I noticed that ESPN dropped SJU's 2011 class down to 3 after Meikle was released (any correlation, or did Duke sign somebody else?).
ESPN doesn't or rarely rate JUCO players. So, I wouldn't sweat his grade on their site. St. John's class probably dropped due to Alex Murphy being part of Duke's 2011 class.
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Anyone know if GG is at the Knicks game tonight with Lavin?
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Anyone know if GG is at the Knicks game tonight with Lavin?
Judging by the score I hope not :)
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We need size. GG is the best available player at the big man position and would be a great addition to our team. Let's show the kid some love.
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It figures that it was sunny in Washington (rain capital of the country) when GG visited their campus, and it's going to rain all weekend in NYC. I hope Lavin has some good indoor activities planned for the weekend wooing of GG. We need this guy.
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It figures that it was sunny in Washington (rain capital of the country) when GG visited their campus, and it's going to rain all weekend in NYC. I hope Lavin has some good indoor activities planned for the weekend wooing of GG. We need this guy.
I'm not worried at all. I don't think it's a coincidence that a devout Christian kid named God's Gift is visiting a Catholic school over Easter weekend. I think he purposely set it up that way, and I'll be shocked if he doesn't commit Sunday.
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Hopefully LJSA, it's from your mouth to God's hears... ;)
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Huskies wooing another big man
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskymensbasketballblog/2014855890_huskies_wooing.html (http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskymensbasketballblog/2014855890_huskies_wooing.html)
Several publications are reporting Washington is hosting Jamaican big man Vashil Fernandez on an official visit this weekend.
The 6-foot-11, 225-pound center played last season at Princeton Day Academy in Maryland. He was being recruited by Florida State, Penn State, East Carolina and TCU.
Fernandez is said to be a standout on the defensive end with a limited offensive skill set at this stage of his career.
Last week Washington hosted God's Gift Achiuwa, a 6-9 forward at Erie (N.Y.) Community College.
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It figures that it was sunny in Washington (rain capital of the country) when GG visited their campus, and it's going to rain all weekend in NYC. I hope Lavin has some good indoor activities planned for the weekend wooing of GG. We need this guy.
I'm not worried at all. I don't think it's a coincidence that a devout Christian kid named God's Gift is visiting a Catholic school over Easter weekend. I think he purposely set it up that way, and I'll be shocked if he doesn't commit Sunday.
Good one
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Hopefully LJSA, it's from your mouth to God's hears... ;)
Better one :)
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We need size. GG is the best available player at the big man position and would be a great addition to our team. Let's show the kid some love.
Not sure if this was posted. He looks like a mack truck. Don't think he gets pushed around!
ECC 83, NCCC 74: God's Gift Achiuwa postgame (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwRmEhw36vg#)
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seems like a good kid. hope he commits. He can keep these little frosh in line if they step out of place.
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Not sure if this posted yet but GG was named an All American in NJCAA Division II
http://www.njcaa.org/sports_awards.cfm?category=Award%20Winners&sid=5&divid=2&slid=2 (http://www.njcaa.org/sports_awards.cfm?category=Award%20Winners&sid=5&divid=2&slid=2)
Was looking at the link and noticed the other big on the First Team list. Figured it had to be Mel Turpin's son and sure enough it is.
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Had a nice talk with God's Gift's Coach. Some insight on G and his recruitment
http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gifts-interest-in-st-johns-rises-on-easter/ (http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gifts-interest-in-st-johns-rises-on-easter/)
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Had a nice talk with God's Gift's Coach. Some insight on G and his recruitment
http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gifts-interest-in-st-johns-rises-on-easter/ (http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gifts-interest-in-st-johns-rises-on-easter/)
2 things I liked:
1.) “He’s a good leader who leads by example. The first one in the gym and the last one out,”
- This is important, GG would be a junior and having already played at the college level knows what it takes. With such a young team another leader and role model would be great.
2.)He is expected to announce his decision within the week.
-Looks like we won't have to wait long for an answer.
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This is a very important week for us. This could be the final piece to the puzzle. If he shocks us and goes elsewhere where do we turn for a big?
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If he shocks us and goes elsewhere where do we turn for a big?
I believe the staff will keep the scholarship towards 2012, if that happens. I don't think it'll be a problem, as I feel he's gonna make the call for the Johnnies.
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If he shocks us and goes elsewhere where do we turn for a big?
I believe the staff will keep the scholarship towards 2012, if that happens. I don't think it'll be a problem, as I feel he's gonna make the call for the Johnnies.
Agree with MJ here. I think we either land God's Gift or we keep it for 2012 and play with what we have which is plenty.
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I think the option is God's Gift or God's Gift
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I think the option is God's Gift or God's Gift
I'm sensing maybe a subtle hint there... ;)
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just posted on Zags:
Following his weekend visit to St. John’s, God’s Gift Achiuwa plans on announcing his college choice this week.
The 6-foot-8 power forward from Erie (N.Y.) Community College is down to the Johnnies, Cincinnati and Washington.
“He’s gonna do it this week,” Erie coach Alex Nwora said Monday by phone.
“He said, ‘I don’t want any more visits. I visited enough schools and I’m going to make my decision. I’m getting fed up with all the traveling and all the phone calls.’ He wants to sit down and make a decision.”
Nwora said all three schools have a shot at Gift, who averaged 22.3 points and 11.7 rebounds.
“The kid is tough to read,” he said. “I know he likes the coaches from Washington. He likes the coaches from Cincinnati. He likes the coaches from St. John’s. St. John’s did a good job recruiting him.
“Whichever way he’s swinging I’m going to support him.”
Good to see Calipari got stoned on this one.
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Nurideen Lindsey was also involved with Kentucky ;)
Not according to UK fans. Getting looked at is very different that beating UK out. I hope they do take GG, because I don't want him in Queens. Give me Taylor or Ashoulu or save it for next season.
Marillac why don't you want GG? I'm guessing you haven't seen him play live and he doesn't have a highlight video so what are you basing your claims on? Just wondering because he is a JUCO all american and would seem to fit our needs and help with the scholarship distribution.
Fact: Norm Roberts once cut a kid that went on to become a JUCO All-American. That means nothing. I used to coach JUCO in NY and believe me when I tell you that Erie and all of D-II in NY is a joke.
D-II JUCO's in NY start talent that you would see as the third scorers on a team like Newburgh or Peekskill. Some of those teams only have nine players total.
I've heard the kid is R-A-W. He's got an NBA body for sure, but he's raw. I think this team will be firing on all cylinders right as GG is graduating. I'd rather use the ship on Ashoulu for one year and get a stud like Gathers next season.
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Fact: Norm Roberts once cut a kid that went on to become a JUCO All-American. That means nothing. I used to coach JUCO in NY and believe me when I tell you that Erie and all of D-II in NY is a joke.
D-II JUCO's in NY start talent that you would see as the third scorers on a team like Newburgh or Peekskill. Some of those teams only have nine players total.
I've heard the kid is R-A-W. He's got an NBA body for sure, but he's raw. I think this team will be firing on all cylinders right as GG is graduating. I'd rather use the ship on Ashoulu for one year and get a stud like Gathers next season.
There could be an exception to the rule, in this situation. No one is denying what you're saying, but it's obvious GG can bring something to the table. I believe Moose and another poster on here has witnessed GG in action. I'd like for him to come in here with some energy, along with being a bruiser, snagging caroms and getting putbacks. If, he does that then he's done fine in my book.
I still believe we can and will get Gathers, even with the addition of GG.
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Nurideen Lindsey was also involved with Kentucky ;)
Not according to UK fans. Getting looked at is very different that beating UK out. I hope they do take GG, because I don't want him in Queens. Give me Taylor or Ashoulu or save it for next season.
Marillac why don't you want GG? I'm guessing you haven't seen him play live and he doesn't have a highlight video so what are you basing your claims on? Just wondering because he is a JUCO all american and would seem to fit our needs and help with the scholarship distribution.
Fact: Norm Roberts once cut a kid that went on to become a JUCO All-American. That means nothing. I used to coach JUCO in NY and believe me when I tell you that Erie and all of D-II in NY is a joke.
D-II JUCO's in NY start talent that you would see as the third scorers on a team like Newburgh or Peekskill. Some of those teams only have nine players total.
I've heard the kid is R-A-W. He's got an NBA body for sure, but he's raw. I think this team will be firing on all cylinders right as GG is graduating. I'd rather use the ship on Ashoulu for one year and get a stud like Gathers next season.
Who did Norm cut?
Ashoulu isn't coming here. Staff has zero interest in him. Never was a target. We have been on GG for awhile. If he was a freshman I would have reservations. Its a 2 yr scholarship. I saw him play a very good D1 team in Monroe and no question his team didnt have much help but he still more than held his own. He is better than Coker and honestly he does many things better than Evans or JB24 that you 'expect' big men to do. If Redmen was still up you would be able to look back on my detailed report from that game. No question he has room to grow, but Calipari doesn't sniff around someone who can't contribute in some way.
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I'm 100% with Moose. He makes sense in a number of ways due to his style of play and helps scholarship balance from the start. If he gave 7 rebounds and 2 blks a game to this team I'm cool with that.
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If Kentucky was interested, Im cool with it also. He fits a need, a wide body rebounding , shoot altering player. Pelle is a different kind of player.
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It is hard to get a true handle on Gods Gift. The JC D-2 competition isn"t the greatest. ESPN doesn"t rate him and scout and rivals don't say much. That being said, with his great work ethic and our coaching staff I believe he will really improve. He is a good complimant to our young,thin,incoming class. He is a very hard worker and has a 3.9 GPA making him an excellent role model as well.
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It is hard to get a true handle on Gods Gift. The JC D-2 competition isn"t the greatest. ESPN doesn"t rate him and scout and rivals don't say much. That being said, with his great work ethic and our coaching staff I believe he will really improve. He is a good complimant to our young,thin,incoming class. He is a very hard worker and has a 3.9 GPA making him an excellent role model as well.
If they don't have a rating the only thing you can look at is who recruited him. Washington, Cincinnati, St. John's (and reportedly contacted by Kentucky). Not too shabby. I don't think he is a world beater based on the streaming video I saw but at least he will add some beef.
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I'm 100% with Moose. He makes sense in a number of ways due to his style of play and helps scholarship balance from the start. If he gave 7 rebounds and 2 blks a game to this team I'm cool with that.
cool with that? sounds like a dream come true to me
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Fact: Norm Roberts once cut a kid that went on to become a JUCO All-American. That means nothing. I used to coach JUCO in NY and believe me when I tell you that Erie and all of D-II in NY is a joke.
D-II JUCO's in NY start talent that you would see as the third scorers on a team like Newburgh or Peekskill. Some of those teams only have nine players total.
I've heard the kid is R-A-W. He's got an NBA body for sure, but he's raw. I think this team will be firing on all cylinders right as GG is graduating. I'd rather use the ship on Ashoulu for one year and get a stud like Gathers next season.
So if Lebron James theoretically played D2 Juco NY ball that would mean he could not play? I can understand that is competition was below par but even if like you say it was a joke that does not mean he cannot be a contibutor to next years St J team-it just means do not expect anything close to 22 and 13. I would be happy with taking up space in the paint, throw weight and muscle around-get a few rebs, block a few shots, maybe a few putbacks. At worst with 3 open schollies next yr anyway he could only be a potential detriment for one yr and lord knows we have had plenty of 4 yr players of that type over the past 10 yrs.
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Fact: Norm Roberts once cut a kid that went on to become a JUCO All-American. That means nothing. I used to coach JUCO in NY and believe me when I tell you that Erie and all of D-II in NY is a joke.
D-II JUCO's in NY start talent that you would see as the third scorers on a team like Newburgh or Peekskill. Some of those teams only have nine players total.
I've heard the kid is R-A-W. He's got an NBA body for sure, but he's raw. I think this team will be firing on all cylinders right as GG is graduating. I'd rather use the ship on Ashoulu for one year and get a stud like Gathers next season.
So if Lebron James theoretically played D2 Juco NY ball that would mean he could not play? I can understand that is competition was below par but even if like you say it was a joke that does not mean he cannot be a contibutor to next years St J team-it just means do not expect anything close to 22 and 13. I would be happy with taking up space in the paint, throw weight and muscle around-get a few rebs, block a few shots, maybe a few putbacks. At worst with 3 open schollies next yr anyway he could only be a potential detriment for one yr and lord knows we have had plenty of 4 yr players of that type over the past 10 yrs.
We had two kids that were 6'9 and we played D-1, D-II, and D-III teams. They went low, low NCAA D-1. These kids both averaged over 4 blocks a game against better comp than Erie played this season. His stats worry me. I saw a 6'4 wing from Boys and Girls average nearly 5 blocks a game against that comp and he went to a D-II school.
He won't be averaging two blocks for us. That I'm sure of.
I like GG because he is a big body and we need that. I also like him because of the GPA, atittude, and work ethic. You can't quantify those things.
Norm cut BJ McDowell. BJ went on to become the D-3 national player of the year and first team all-american for a team that went undefeated against D-1 and D-2 opponents with BJ at the point. Wet shot....a little slow but decent athlete....two sport star in high school. He had a crappy try out, no doubt, but Norm's eye for talent was awful and this was in the dark years when we could have used anyone. Great form on his jumper and got into his shot very well.
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Until reading the article that just popped up on Bill Koch's UC blog (see link below), I didn't realize UC used up all of their 13 schollarships when they signed Mbodj two weeks ago. So it's really down to us and UW (although many posters believe it's down to us and us).
http://cincinnati.com/blogs/uc/2011/04/26/uc-unlikely-destination-for-gods-gift/ (http://cincinnati.com/blogs/uc/2011/04/26/uc-unlikely-destination-for-gods-gift/)
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From Rivals.com/Wingate yesterday. And from Seattle Times blog from Monday. All saying the same thing. He likes all 3 schools will make a call this week:
http://basketballrecruiting.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1215892 (http://basketballrecruiting.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1215892)
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskymensbasketballblog/2014871205_gods_gift_achiu_2.html (http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskymensbasketballblog/2014871205_gods_gift_achiu_2.html)
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According to Zags twitter, he is announcing tomorrow at 1:00pm.
http://twitter.com/# (http://twitter.com/#)!/AdamZagoria
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Just noticed Zagota's comment think we are the winner But just what we won is still a question.
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If St. John's "wins", they get a body who can bang with the bigs of the Big East. He's a junior college player - few JUCOs come up to the Big East and set the world on fire. Marquette got some that did, the Johnnies got Dwight Hardy, and to a lesser extent, Justin Brownlee. But sometimes you get guys like Dwight Buycks and James Beatty, players who fill a role and start, but aren't propelling the team to the next level.
But having a guy who can bang for 15-20 minutes is an improvement over the collection of Kate Moss, Twiggy, and the singer from the Black Crowes twigs who will be suiting up for the Red Storm next year. The incoming guys are skinny.
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According to Zags twitter, he is announcing tomorrow at 1:00pm.
I have a good feeling that he will announce St. John's but if he doesn't I wouldn't be broken up about it.
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Peter,
He has never had to bang with the Big Boys. And from JC div 2 to BEC is a hell of jump particularly when projecting 15 - 20 minutes playing time. Aren't the JC transfers you are listing Div 1?
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This would be a good pickup for numerous reasons.
He provides some frontcourt depth that is badly needed. He has a leg up on high school players having played at the JUCO level.
And most importantly he provides scholarship flexability because he is not a 4 year freshman but rather a 2 year JUCO recruit.
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Without him we have only 10 scholarship players and with eligibility question marks, academics and injuries-we can definitely use him if for numbers only.
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I don't know why St. John's fans are so confident. I would love to see GG come here, but from what I read in that article that was posted above, it sounds like Washington has the inside track. He liked all 3 schools, but really liked UW's head coach. No comment about STJ's or Cincy's head coaches. I say he is going to Washington, Hope I'm wrong, but that is what I get from that article.
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You mean the Seattle Times article?
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Peter,
He has never had to bang with the Big Boys. And from JC div 2 to BEC is a hell of jump particularly when projecting 15 - 20 minutes playing time. Aren't the JC transfers you are listing Div 1?
While this is true, somewhat, God's Gift has a solid looking frame and he is wanted by some solid programs - St. John's isn't competing with Niagara and Cal State Fullerton here! It's a hell of a jump, but he'll be pressed into action. And if he can't do something positive on the court (defensively), there are others who will step in.
He might end up just being a body; he might end up being the big forward who allows guys like Jakarr Sampson to play more than 5 feet from the basket.
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]While this is true, somewhat, God's Gift has a solid looking frame and he is wanted by some solid programs - St. John's isn't competing with Niagara and Cal State Fullerton here! It's a hell of a jump, but he'll be pressed into action. And if he can't do something positive on the court (defensively), there are others who will step in.
He might end up just being a body; he might end up being the big forward who allows guys like Jakarr Sampson to play more than 5 feet from the basket.
Exactly Peter. No one is claiming GG is going to come in here and be the next Patrick Ewing. We don't even need him to be a starter, we need an athletic big with size that can play on the defensive end and rebound.
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]While this is true, somewhat, God's Gift has a solid looking frame and he is wanted by some solid programs - St. John's isn't competing with Niagara and Cal State Fullerton here! It's a hell of a jump, but he'll be pressed into action. And if he can't do something positive on the court (defensively), there are others who will step in.
He might end up just being a body; he might end up being the big forward who allows guys like Jakarr Sampson to play more than 5 feet from the basket.
Exactly Peter. No one is claiming GG is going to come in here and be the next Patrick Ewing. We don't even need him to be a starter, we need an athletic big with size that can play on the defensive end and rebound.
I think it was Marillac who expressed worry about his shooting numbers. I would too, to be honest. But he was also taking quite a few shots. If he's a 5-shot/ game guy who can hang on defense for 15, or 20, or even 30 minutes, there's enough scoring pop around to make up for that with Nuri, D'Angelo, Harkless, Sampson... it helps to have a role player on the floor when others are looking for their shot. Provides balance.
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I don't know why St. John's fans are so confident. I would love to see GG come here, but from what I read in that article that was posted above, it sounds like Washington has the inside track. He liked all 3 schools, but really liked UW's head coach. No comment about STJ's or Cincy's head coaches. I say he is going to Washington, Hope I'm wrong, but that is what I get from that article.
He said similar things about SJU to Zags and other reporters as well. I can't believe you are reading too much into these quotes when a beat writer for one school calls a recruit or coach of a recruit to ask him a few questions. I mean are you surprised he did not say, "He liked all 3 coaches but he really loved Lavin" to a Seattle Times writer????
Trust me they were probably lead in questions that you don't see and the quotes come off of those questions let alone the fact that Nwora knows who his audience is in this instance.
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I don't know why St. John's fans are so confident. I would love to see GG come here, but from what I read in that article that was posted above, it sounds like Washington has the inside track. He liked all 3 schools, but really liked UW's head coach. No comment about STJ's or Cincy's head coaches. I say he is going to Washington, Hope I'm wrong, but that is what I get from that article.
He said similar things about SJU to Zags and other reporters as well. I can't believe you are reading too much into these quotes when a beat writer for one school calls a recruit or coach of a recruit to ask him a few questions. I mean are you surprised he did not say, "He liked all 3 coaches but he really loved Lavin" to a Seattle Times writer????
Trust me they were probably lead in questions that you don't see and the quotes come off of those questions let alone the fact that Nwora knows who his audience is in this instance.
He told me he "really connected" with St. John's coaches.
http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gifts-interest-in-st-johns-rises-on-easter/ (http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gifts-interest-in-st-johns-rises-on-easter/)
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]While this is true, somewhat, God's Gift has a solid looking frame and he is wanted by some solid programs - St. John's isn't competing with Niagara and Cal State Fullerton here! It's a hell of a jump, but he'll be pressed into action. And if he can't do something positive on the court (defensively), there are others who will step in.
He might end up just being a body; he might end up being the big forward who allows guys like Jakarr Sampson to play more than 5 feet from the basket.
Exactly Peter. No one is claiming GG is going to come in here and be the next Patrick Ewing. We don't even need him to be a starter, we need an athletic big with size that can play on the defensive end and rebound.
I think it was Marillac who expressed worry about his shooting numbers. I would too, to be honest. But he was also taking quite a few shots. If he's a 5-shot/ game guy who can hang on defense for 15, or 20, or even 30 minutes, there's enough scoring pop around to make up for that with Nuri, D'Angelo, Harkless, Sampson... it helps to have a role player on the floor when others are looking for their shot. Provides balance.
How many shots did Burrell/Coker get in this offense? I wouldn't be so hung up on his shooting ability.
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[tweet]http://twitter.com/LennRobbins/status/63352782765301760[/tweet]
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YES!!! Adding some meat to the bones of the 2011 class! God I hope Lenn Robbins' tweet is accurate (pun intended).
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This was fully expected but not confirmed to be official yet. However I'd have 99% optimism to say Lenn is correct in his report.
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How many shots did Burrell/Coker get in this offense? I wouldn't be so hung up on his shooting ability.
Coker barely played! And by shooting ability, I also mean his ability to score on put backs...
Let's hope Lenny Robbins is correct.
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Has anyone seen this kid play in person? Besides Moose who I know saw him play during the winter.
Hard to know what exactly we are getting here, besides the obvious muscle and strength he'll provide to a relatively thin front line.
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He doesn't need to score that much to be very valuable. Remember Donald Emanuel as a freshman? He was raw, but just pulling down boards and boxing out made him valuable. Right now, we have one guy who plays both the 4/5 positions, and that one guy is a twig. He needs to eat meat and potatoes all summer just fatten up to the size of a stick.
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How many shots did Burrell/Coker get in this offense? I wouldn't be so hung up on his shooting ability.
Coker barely played! And by shooting ability, I also mean his ability to score on put backs...
Let's hope Lenny Robbins is correct.
I should have threw Evans in there too. More or less I was saying that role next to Brownlee (Sampson/Polee) opposed to Burrell/Coker/Evans (Pelle/GG)
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Another good get by Lavs. A big to play the 5 along with Pelle next year and it staggers the ships. Even if GG only offers modest ppg and boards, I can't see how this is a bad thing.
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People are mentioning minutes and how long can he hack it on the court. I will put it this way. The game I saw him play against Monroe (Chiles was also there) he played the entire game. Never coming out. He had 2 fouls. 1 of which was offensive. So we aren't dealing with a hacker who can't play consecutive minutes without making mistakes. Now yes JUCO is different than BE D1 ball but I've seen other raw players we've gotten (Coker, Diakite, Keita, CUJO, etc) and he is by far my advanced with more of a feel for the game. He has a role. Remember we won't be expecting many points from our 4/5. They are there for putbacks, cleaning up the miss. 2 or 3 baskets a game from GG, 2 FT's, 7 boards and 1-2 blocks and we are getting everything we can out of the scholarship for 2 yrs.
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Moose where did you see this guy play?
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Moose where did you see this guy play?
Erie played Monroe this season at Mt. St Michael. I had a detailed writeup about his game but unfortunately I only posted it on Redmen.
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Just got a text from a reliable source that this is the case. Also heard it was on a Len Robbins tweet which I don't have access to.
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:up: Great news...He looks like a tank and we could desperately use a big presence down low...I know it's only JUCO but he has some college experience and experience with that type of schedule and fits well with the scholarship situation in only having 2 years left
It's just seems appropriate that God's Gift ends up at St. John's
Lavin the closer does a great job again...He had to be impressed with Coach Dunlap, Hines, Hicks and Chiles as well
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Thanks for the heads up QCRed. Welcome aboard God!
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Thank God!!! Welcome aboard!!!
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If true this is probably the best commit we could possibly get at this point in time.
Welcome aboard GG. http://johnnyjungle.com/forum/Smileys/alive/cheesy.gif (http://johnnyjungle.com/forum/Smileys/alive/cheesy.gif)
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It's a done deal. He was an SJU lean for months.
Others are now tweeting it including JUCO Recruiting as well.
9 man class. Class dismissed on to 2012 and 2013.
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Welcome GG! Fills a need and helps with scholarship distribution this signing is a thumbs up in my book
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Let's ownnnn
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Well, looks like I was wrong! Recent posts on a Washington forum, have their fans assuming he'd go to St. John's
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Welcome aboard, GG. Hope to see you on campus in a few weeks to start putting in work!
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Great Get God's Gift Is!
Thanks Coach Lavin and staff for another reason to be pumped-up about the Redmen.
Can't wait for midnight madness!
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[tweet]http://twitter.com/LennRobbins/status/63352782765301760[/tweet]
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I'm so torn everytime I see these kinds of posts. I love hearing he is ours, but I would be pissed as a kid if I set a press conference and it gets leaked on twitter the night before. Guess that is the current environment.
Welcome aboard.
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Will update with quotes tomorrow...
http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gift-achiuwa-chooses-to-join-st-johns-and-steve-lavin/ (http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gift-achiuwa-chooses-to-join-st-johns-and-steve-lavin/)
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http://www.wivb.com/dpp/sports/hs_and_college/ecc-standout-headed-to-st-johns (http://www.wivb.com/dpp/sports/hs_and_college/ecc-standout-headed-to-st-johns)
Two time JUCO All American God's Gift Achiuwa has made his decision, on where to continue his college basketball career. He'll announce it Thursday, at an afternoon news conference at ECC.
News 4 Sports has learned that Achiuwa will announce that he'll attend St John's University in New York next year. He had narrowed his choices down to St John's, Cincinnati, and the University of Washington.
Achiuwa is expected to make it official at a 2pm news conference. The Nigerian native is a 6-8 forward who averaged 23 points and 12 rebounds per game for the ECC Kats last year.
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I am really happy we landed GG. He really is the final piece and will be a very important part of out team next year. It is my opinion that GG will be our starting C next year and play a key role.
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I am really happy we landed GG. He really is the final piece and will be a very important part of out team next year. It is my opinion that GG will be our starting C next year and play a key role.
He probably will start at center and share half the time with Pelle. Perfect situation for both God's Gift and Pelle. Now we have a 6'9" 240lb center who can board and run the court as well as a 6'10" gazelle of a shotblocker. Two things we didn't have last year. Will be nice to have two real post players.
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Here's Robbins article in the post if it hasn't peen posted yet. It sounds like the press conference is going to be at the school.
http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/college/basketball/storm_to_land_god_gift_FA3EMzv1nvpqeF5XgOsgAO (http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/college/basketball/storm_to_land_god_gift_FA3EMzv1nvpqeF5XgOsgAO)
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Actually after looikng at it again I believe he meant the press conference would be at Erie.
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I guess I will have to learn to navigate JJ better so I can keep up. I have been waiting for RM.com to come up and my dad actually beat me on recruiting information. Great job staff pulling a much needed big man. GG welcome. It will be nice seeing a big man with some skills working the paint for us.
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@recruitscoop on twitter is saying GG not a done deal. has not committed.
FWIW: //RT @TheRecruitScoop: 2011 PF God's Gift has not committed to #stjbb yet, per a source. Cincinnati no longer in the race.
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That could mean multiple things: he technically hasn't committed, or that he's still open. (Hence the FWIW.)
And we don't know the source. And it could be the coach trying to still generate interest in the press conference - other players have refuted reports that state where they end up going in order to keep their drama high for their presser.
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Well of course he hasn't technically committed yet. Duh!
Lenn Robbins said it was down to Cincy and St. John's
Alex Kline says Cincinnati is out
Does anyone need more logic?
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how far in advance does the staff find out? it can't be during the press conference.... i imagined if it leaked yesterday, via lenn, that it was someone from sju as the source. and that gg had "committed".
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Well of course he hasn't technically committed yet. Duh!
Lenn Robbins said it was down to Cincy and St. John's
Alex Kline says Cincinnati is out
Does anyone need more logic?
Exactly. Technically he is right, he has not formally announced for anyone yet.
What everyone is doing is saying when he announces at 1 PM it will be for SJU.
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Is the press conference on ESPN U or online or something?
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Zags tweeted that it is a done deal to SJU.
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so it's past 1pm...is there gonna be shown anywhere or we just waiting?
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Alex Kline just said on twitter GG has committed to St. John's
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Announcement coming at 2 PM now
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Oh yes...more muscle down low - great spiritual kid - leads by example - just what we need... :angel:
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Mike DeCourcy of Sporting News
http://aol.sportingnews.com/ncaa-basketball/story/2011-04-28/gods-gift-achiuwa-heading-to-st-johns-next-season (http://aol.sportingnews.com/ncaa-basketball/story/2011-04-28/gods-gift-achiuwa-heading-to-st-johns-next-season)
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Alex Kline just said on twitter GG has committed to St. John's
Wouldn't cite him as a source of anything but he's a great news gatherer.
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Adam Zagoria just said GG going to make it official at 2:45pm via telephone
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I just pelted Kline with "who told you? presser not happening yet?" on Twitter...well "scoop" can be defined as "Current information or details" in its broad sense - just he's taking the "current info and details" from other people while he sits in a HS classroom! lmao
Alex Kline just said on twitter GG has committed to St. John's
Wouldn't cite him as a source of anything but he's a great news gatherer.
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In case you missed it...
http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gift-achiuwa-chooses-to-join-st-johns-and-steve-lavin/ (http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gift-achiuwa-chooses-to-join-st-johns-and-steve-lavin/)
Welcome aboard!
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1pm, then 2pm, then 2:45pm. Maybe he will announce at the NFL draft by cutting in front of Cam Newton as he approaches Roger Goodell at the podium at Radio City Music Hall! :) :) :) :) :)
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It's official! The SJU press release is out!
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Updated with quotes from God's Gift and Lavin
http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gift-achiuwa-chooses-to-join-st-johns-and-steve-lavin/ (http://johnnyjungle.com/recruiting/gods-gift-achiuwa-chooses-to-join-st-johns-and-steve-lavin/)
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How is his last name pronounced?
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http://www.redstormsports.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/042811aac.html (http://www.redstormsports.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/042811aac.html)
Official press release.
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http://www.redstormsports.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/042811aac.html (http://www.redstormsports.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/042811aac.html)
April 28, 2011
QUEENS, N.Y. - St. John's head men's basketball coach Steve Lavin announced that coveted Nigerian big man God's Gift Achiuwa (Port Harcourt, River States, Nigeria/Sure Foundation/Erie C.C. (N.Y.) became the Red Storm's second signee of the spring period on Thursday. Achiuwa, a 2011 junior college first team All-American, joins what is now a nine-man group of heralded student-athletes that have signed National Letters of Intent (NLI) to join St. John's for the 2011-12 season - a class currently rated No. 2 in the nation by both ESPN and Rivals.com.
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God's Gift Achiuwa • F • 6-9 • 240 • Jr.-J.C. • Port Harcourt, River States, Nigeria (Sure Foundation/Erie C.C. (N.Y.)
Thursday, April 28, 2011 - 2:05 p.m.
"Gift is a talented frontline player who possesses tremendous size, strength, speed and skill. He is an ideal fit for our baseline-to-baseline attacking style of play," said Lavin. "The maturity Gift gained from two years of junior college basketball with a combined 55-6 record will make him a nice complement to what will be the youngest team in the country next season. He is fundamentally sound, and comes from a program with a tradition of winning, where a strong work ethic, playing hard and discipline is demanded on a daily basis."
Achiuwa, a 2011 first team NJCAA All-America selection, is a bruising post presence who led Erie Community College to a 28-4 record in 2010-11 and a fourth place finish in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Tournament. The NJCAA Region III Player of the Year and Region III Tournament Most Valuable Player ranked ninth in the NJCAA in scoring at 22.3 points per game, 10th in rebounding with 11.7 boards and 17th in blocks with 2.2 rejections per contest. As a sophomore, he shot 56.0 percent from the field and 36.7 percent from 3-point range, scored 32 or more points in four outings and netted 39 points against Monroe C.C. on Feb. 8, 2011. As a freshman in 2009-10, he helped lead Erie to a 27-2 record and averaged 13.1 points, 13.5 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game en route to earning 2010 NJCAA third team All-American and Region III Co-Player of the Year honors.
God's Gift (20) is the third of six children born to Eunice and Donatus Achiuwa of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. He has one older brother, Promise, and two younger brothers, God's Will and Precious. He also has one older sister, Grace, and one younger sister, Peace.
"I am excited to come to St. John's and New York City. I really like the coaching staff and the way St. John's plays. They are a running team and that's what I like, fast paced basketball," said Achiuwa. "I also like the winning tradition of the new coaching staff. They came into the St. John's program and turned things around in less than a year. I think that's a good indication that the program is on its way back. I like the city and have been to New York a number of times, it is a great place to play and live. Madison Square Garden is the biggest stage in the world and it is a great opportunity to have The Garden as my home court."
"When I first saw Gift, I could tell he had the potential but he was raw," said Alex Nwora, Achiuwa's coach at Erie. "His work ethic, both in the weight room and during practice, and playing a lot the past two years, have allowed him to develop to become one of the nation's best players at any level. St. John's has been recruiting Gift since Coach Lavin started there. They knew of his abilities from 'Basketball without Borders'. St. John's has a very good coaching staff, including three staff members who have coached in the NBA and that's where he wants to end up."
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Washington Boards are really disappointed. They thought Lorenzo Romar had locked him up last week.
History keeps repeating itself for the '95 National Championship Assistant Coaches. Romar's very first recruit at Washington was stolen by Steve Lavin - a "sleeper" frontcourt prospect named Ryan Hollins. Romar actually signed Hollins to play for him at St. Louis University. When Romar got the Washington job before Hollins frosh year, Hollins got his release, to accompany Romar to Washington. Then steve stepped in. :)
Washingtonf fans also thought they were going to get Pelle. They're just not real happy with Steve OR Lorenzo right now!
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Do any of you guys who follow WFAN know anything about this guy Casey Keefe? His profile says he is a producer there. I just thought this was a very strange comment to post immediately after the announcement today.
CaseyKeefeWFAN: "Gods Gift commits to St. Johns... I don't know if I'll ever be rooting harder for someone to fail."
[tweet]http://twitter.com/#!/CaseyKeefeWFAN/status/63681437051781120[/tweet]
http://twitter.com/# (http://twitter.com/#)!/CaseyKeefeWFAN/status/63681437051781120
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Do any of you guys who follow WFAN know anything about this guy Casey Keefe? His profile says he is a producer there. I just thought this was a very strange comment to post immediately after the announcement today.
CaseyKeefeWFAN: "Gods Gift commits to St. Johns... I don't know if I'll ever be rooting harder for someone to fail."
Probably just some jerkoff who is rooting against the kid because of his name.
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Now if we could start making UCLA unhappy......................
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Now if we could start making UCLA unhappy......................
Oh, I think we're going to make them very unhappy when they visit NYC next year!
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UCLA has put together a fine class as well and are still in the mix for Daniels
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FWIW Darcy's story on the signing is on the front page of ESPN.com in the top news section right now. Mostly because they find his name so unique no doubt but any PR is good PR.
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FWIW Darcy's story on the signing is on the front page of ESPN.com in the top news section right now. Mostly because they find his name so unique no doubt but any PR is good PR.
1. ESPN New York has increased St. John's exposure tremendously
2. Lavin has increased ESPN's awareness of St. John's 10 fold
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:2funny: Some of the comments you read on ESPN.com & CBS.com, and other sites by fans of other teams, after this story about St. John's latest recruit, are hysterical. Some are implying that Lavin and STJ are up to shady and unfair practices. Their coaches can't land a class of 9 great recruits, so Lavin is up to something. ;D :2funny:
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Now there's also a story on Deadspin, again brought about by the name. They want to know who's name is better, God's Gift or recent Wake Forest football commit Godspower Offor.
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FWIW Darcy's story on the signing is on the front page of ESPN.com in the top news section right now. Mostly because they find his name so unique no doubt but any PR is good PR.
Does Darcy's story talk of WHY he has the name?
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FWIW Darcy's story on the signing is on the front page of ESPN.com in the top news section right now. Mostly because they find his name so unique no doubt but any PR is good PR.
Does Darcy's story talk of WHY he has the name?
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/How-junior-college-star-God-s-Gift-Achiuwa-got-h?urn=ncaab-253762 (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/How-junior-college-star-God-s-Gift-Achiuwa-got-h?urn=ncaab-253762)
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Now if we could start making UCLA unhappy......................
Cuse is on the top of my list for making unhappy. With Lav & co., it's time we reclaim the distinction as THE NY college bball team and shut up those annoyingly arrogant orange fans.
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FWIW Darcy's story on the signing is on the front page of ESPN.com in the top news section right now. Mostly because they find his name so unique no doubt but any PR is good PR.
Does Darcy's story talk of WHY he has the name?
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/How-junior-college-star-God-s-Gift-Achiuwa-got-h?urn=ncaab-253762 (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/How-junior-college-star-God-s-Gift-Achiuwa-got-h?urn=ncaab-253762)
I knew why all along :)
I'm wondering if his story is helping the public understand instead of jumping to conclusions.
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What a great Class, thank god I found this site on time thanks Johnny.
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Remember some old song as a kid that had lyrics kinda like this: "Something tells me I'm (substitute Lav's) into something good."
Pure denial...Some cannot believe that having a vision, and having yourself and staff that can implement it, in the best city in the country, isn't enough to draw in some terrific young men to come on board the Ark...I guess they're not wide eyed dreamers like we've become ;)
:2funny: Some of the comments you read on ESPN.com & CBS.com, and other sites by fans of other teams, after this story about St. John's latest recruit, are hysterical. Some are implying that Lavin and STJ are up to shady and unfair practices. Their coaches can't land a class of 9 great recruits, so Lavin is up to something. ;D :2funny:
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Moose - funniest thing I saw on the boards was: "I thought God's Gift is playing in Miami?" :2funny: lmao - That is a good zing...
FWIW Darcy's story on the signing is on the front page of ESPN.com in the top news section right now. Mostly because they find his name so unique no doubt but any PR is good PR.
Does Darcy's story talk of WHY he has the name?
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St. John's coach Steve Lavin has to hope his newest recruit is as impressive on the basketball court as his name.
God's Gift Achiuwa -- a 6-foot-9 power forward and first-team juco All-American from Erie (N.Y.) Community College -- is the ninth player to commit to the Red Storm for next season. St. John's has the No. 3-ranked recruiting class, according to ESPN Insider's top 25.
The Nigerian native, whose father is a minister, chose St. John's over Washington and Cincinnati.
Read More:
http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/ncb/news/story?id=6443546 (http://sports.espn.go.com/new-york/ncb/news/story?id=6443546)
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How is his last name pronounced?
I believe the announcer for the JUCO game I saw pronounced it Ah-choo-wah
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http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/colleges/other-local-colleges/article406838.ece (http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/colleges/other-local-colleges/article406838.ece)
Opportunity brought God's Gift Achiuwa from his home in Port Harcourt, River States, Nigeria, to Buffalo to play junior college basketball. And that's what will take him to New York City next year to continue his education and athletic career with St. John's.
Achiuwa made his announcement Thursday at the Flickinger Athletic Center, where he spent the last two years starring for the Erie Community College Kats.
The 6-foot-9 forward wanted to compete in the Big East on one of the biggest stages in college basketball.
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"He doesn't want to be a big fish in a small pond," Nwora said. "He wants to be a big fish with the other big fish and then dog it out to find a way to stand out."
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"He put in a lot of work in the offseason and got his body where it is now. He has a pro body," Nwora said. "I think he outworked everybody. That's one thing with him — he's going to be a workhorse. They're going to really value his work ethic. Win or lose, he's going to stand out.
"He wants to be the first on the court. He wants to be the fastest. As big as he is, he wins most of our sprints in practice. A guy his size, he can defend one through five. "
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http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/colleges/other-local-colleges/article406838.ece (http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/colleges/other-local-colleges/article406838.ece)
Opportunity brought God's Gift Achiuwa from his home in Port Harcourt, River States, Nigeria, to Buffalo to play junior college basketball. And that's what will take him to New York City next year to continue his education and athletic career with St. John's.
Achiuwa made his announcement Thursday at the Flickinger Athletic Center, where he spent the last two years starring for the Erie Community College Kats.
The 6-foot-9 forward wanted to compete in the Big East on one of the biggest stages in college basketball.
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"He doesn't want to be a big fish in a small pond," Nwora said. "He wants to be a big fish with the other big fish and then dog it out to find a way to stand out."
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"He put in a lot of work in the offseason and got his body where it is now. He has a pro body," Nwora said. "I think he outworked everybody. That's one thing with him — he's going to be a workhorse. They're going to really value his work ethic. Win or lose, he's going to stand out.
"He wants to be the first on the court. He wants to be the fastest. As big as he is, he wins most of our sprints in practice. A guy his size, he can defend one through five. "
His coach has a 2nd career in PR
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A guy his size, "he can defend one through five. "
(http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/colleges/other-local-colleges/article406838.ece)
Have to love the Coach's enthusiasm but come on he isn't going to be able to guard a point guard in the Big East lol
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A guy his size, "he can defend one through five. "
(http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/colleges/other-local-colleges/article406838.ece)
Have to love the Coach's enthusiasm but come on he isn't going to be able to guard a point guard in the Big East lol
No he can't guard a quick PG, but he is a lot quicker than I first suspected. Doesn't move like a PF.
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Remember some old song as a kid that had lyrics kinda like this: "Something tells me I'm (substitute Lav's) into something good."
Pure denial...Some cannot believe that having a vision, and having yourself and staff that can implement it, in the best city in the country, isn't enough to draw in some terrific young men to come on board the Ark...I guess they're not wide eyed dreamers like we've become ;)
:2funny: Some of the comments you read on ESPN.com & CBS.com, and other sites by fans of other teams, after this story about St. John's latest recruit, are hysterical. Some are implying that Lavin and STJ are up to shady and unfair practices. Their coaches can't land a class of 9 great recruits, so Lavin is up to something. ;D :2funny:
It's all about expectations and past history. Just goes to show how far we'd fallen in the eyes of the college ball cognescenti that we couldn't possibly have risen from the dead so soon and with such impact. To the rest of the doubters - bite me.
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Very nice 1/2 page write up in todays print edition of Newsday.
Content rehashed what we've read already-
but just the fact that's a big article not a small blurb
http://www.newsday.com/sports/st-john-s-signs-juco-star-god-s-gift-achiuwa-1.2844943 (http://www.newsday.com/sports/st-john-s-signs-juco-star-god-s-gift-achiuwa-1.2844943)
St. John's signs JUCO star God's Gift Achiuwa
Published: April 28, 2011 3:13 PM
By The Associated Press
NEW YORK - (AP) -- St. John's has signed JUCO All-America God's Gift Achiuwa, adding the Nigerian to a class that includes six players rated in the top 100 prospects by many recruiting services.
Red Storm coach Steve Lavin announced Thursday that the 6-foot-9, 240-pound Achiuwa had signed a letter of intent to become the ninth member of the 2011-12 recruiting class.
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http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/colleges/other-local-colleges/article406838.ece (http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/colleges/other-local-colleges/article406838.ece)
Opportunity brought God's Gift Achiuwa from his home in Port Harcourt, River States, Nigeria, to Buffalo to play junior college basketball. And that's what will take him to New York City next year to continue his education and athletic career with St. John's.
Achiuwa made his announcement Thursday at the Flickinger Athletic Center, where he spent the last two years starring for the Erie Community College Kats.
The 6-foot-9 forward wanted to compete in the Big East on one of the biggest stages in college basketball.
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"He doesn't want to be a big fish in a small pond," Nwora said. "He wants to be a big fish with the other big fish and then dog it out to find a way to stand out."
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"He put in a lot of work in the offseason and got his body where it is now. He has a pro body," Nwora said. "I think he outworked everybody. That's one thing with him — he's going to be a workhorse. They're going to really value his work ethic. Win or lose, he's going to stand out.
"He wants to be the first on the court. He wants to be the fastest. As big as he is, he wins most of our sprints in practice. A guy his size, he can defend one through five. "
Even if you take GG's coach's praise with a grain of salt, GG sounds like he could really be a special player for us. While physically, GG is bigger, the description of GG above reminds me of one of my favorite Redmen, Charles Minlend, the PF from Camaroon, who had a terrific work ethic, lead by example and carried a high 3.0 GPA in the Pharmacy school. I think GG will be a solid influence for our freshman players both on and off the court.
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Even if you take GG's coach's praise with a grain of salt, GG sounds like he could really be a special player for us. While physically, GG is bigger, the description of GG above reminds me of one of my favorite Redmen, Charles Minlend, the PF from Camaroon, who had a terrific work ethic, lead by example and carried a high 3.0 GPA in the Pharmacy school. I think GG will be a solid influence for our freshman players both on and off the court.
Included in the off the court - possible Spiritual Leader too?
*Fixed your quote KJD
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Even if you take GG's coach's praise with a grain of salt, GG sounds like he could really be a special player for us. While physically, GG is bigger, the description of GG above reminds me of one of my favorite Redmen, Charles Minlend, the PF from Camaroon, who had a terrific work ethic, lead by example and carried a high 3.0 GPA in the Pharmacy school. I think GG will be a solid influence for our freshman players both on and off the court.
Included in the off the court - possible Spiritual Leader too?
[/quote]
Perhaps (he certainly has the name for the job), but I'd be happy if his influence just kept the other players out of trouble.
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Welcome, God´s Gift.
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Honestly we don't know exactly what to expect from this kid because he is still raw and hasn't played against top competition but he sounds like an awesome kid. He has the size and from what everyone says a great work ethic and personality so I would be surprised if he didn't make himself into a solid big man for us over the next two years. His size and rebounding are needed and if he can add to his game and become more of a scoring threat watch out.
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God's Gift to appear on @ESPN 2's First Take on Monday at approx. 11:40 a.m.
Seems like St. John's is getting a lot of publicity because of this kid's interesting name. Hopefully they get just as much publicity with what he does on the court over the next 2 seasons.
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Gods gift might be the missing piece, in my opinion for us to be good next year he has to contribute. 2013 final 4.
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http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskymensbasketballblog/2014898926_gods_gift_achiu_5.html (http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/huskymensbasketballblog/2014898926_gods_gift_achiu_5.html)
Husky Men's Basketball Blog
Seattle Times staff reporter Percy Allen provides a running commentary on the Huskies.
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April 28, 2011 at 1:03 PM
Comments (109) E-mail article Print Share
God's Gift Achiuwa on Washington: "They were very close"
Posted by Percy Allen
Had a chance to speak with God's Gift Achiuwa on a teleconference call and the Erie (NY) Community College basketball star explained why he chose St. John's over Washington and Cincinnati.
His decision was based primarily on familiarity. He's known St. John's coach Steve Lavin longer than any of the other coaches from the major schools recruiting him.
Achiuwa said he developed a relationship with UW assistant Raphael Chillious through ECC coach Alex Nwora. Chillious made at least two trips across the country to watch Achiuwa play and was able to get the two-time JUCO all-American to make an official visit to Washington.
The 6-foot-8 forward said he liked UW's campus and referred to coach Lorenzo Romar as "a great man," but the Huskies were unable to close the deal.
Achiuwa also noted he was impressed with St. John's because the Red Storm has two assistants (Mike Dunlap and Rico Hines) who coached in the NBA. Dunlap, a former assistant at Arizona and Oregon, is considered a recruiting wizard.
Here's most of the interview with Achiuwa.
(Why did you pick St. John's?) "I like the coaching staff. They're great people. They've got a great and experienced coaching staff. They have two guys that coached in the NBA that are part of the coaching staff. Also they bring in great kids. Very athletic kids. I like the way they play. They play a very high-tempo basketball, which is what we do here at Erie. That was what I was looking for. Besides that they play at Madison Square Garden, the biggest stage in the world. It's a great place to be. St. John's is a really great school. ... That's a very good fit for me and my family. Those are the main reasons."
(How did Steve Lavin build a good relationship with you?) "Steve Lavin started recruiting me right from the day he got his job. That was my first day at Erie. I've been talking to him for a long time. That really made me feel like he really wanted me."
(He has a lot of coaches with NBA experience. How important is that to you?) "That was very important to me because my dream is to play in the NBA. Having those guys around me is like a plus for me on getting to where I want to get to in this game of basketball."
(Which pro player do you resemble or who do you model your game after?) "For me I don't really model myself after guys in the NBA or anybody. I just try to do something new. I just try to play the way I can. I play hard. There's no person that I can point to or say this is the way I play my basketball. I can't model myself to anybody. All I can do is play hard and do what I have to do on the basketball court."
(Which schools were on your final list?) "Finally I decided to narrow it down to Cincinnati, Washington and St. John's. Those are the three schools I came and visited. Those are the three schools I narrowed it down to."
(How close was Washington to being your choice?) "They were very close. I took just three visits and those three schools were very close. ... Finally I had to pick a school. I couldn't go to three schools and I decided to go to St. John's."
(If the Huskies had recruited you earlier would they have had a better chance?) "The weren't here from the beginning, but they came and they showed great interest. I decided to consider them and give them a visit. I liked what I saw. I liked the coach. He's a great man. ... They've been coming to my games. So they showed a lot of interest. I really considered them when I made my decision."
(Were you hesitant about going so far away from New York?) "No. That wasn't a reason at all. The reason I visited them was because I was interested in their program. Distance wasn't a problem for me."
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St. John's coach Steve Lavin received a late Easter "Gift" yesterday.
As reported exclusively Wednesday night on nypost.com, God's Gift Achiuwa, a 6-foot-9, 240-pound JUCO All-American, has signed with the Red Storm, giving Lavin the power-post player he needs to complement one of the nation's top recruiting classes.
Now the Red Storm are seeking additional depth in the frontcourt. Lavin and his staff this weekend will play host to power forward Daouda Soumaoru, a 6-foot-9, 215-pound forward from Our Savior New American School.
Read more: http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/college/basketball/true_god_gift_drops_in_the_johnnies_6jhpzU6dRClyHVZnpoRbRM#ixzz1KxV6Oakf (http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/college/basketball/true_god_gift_drops_in_the_johnnies_6jhpzU6dRClyHVZnpoRbRM#ixzz1KxV6Oakf)
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St. John's picked up another significant commitment Thursday when Erie Community College sophomore God's Gift Achiuwa announced he would join the Red Storm next season.
The 6-9 forward/center opted for the Johnnies over Washington and Cincinnati.
Achiuwa, from Nigeria, averaged 22.3 points and 11.7 rebounds this past season for 28-4 ECC, located in Buffalo, and was named to the Junior College All-America team. That's up from 13.1 and 13.5 a year ago.
Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/college/2011/04/28/2011-04-28_gods_gift_achiuwa_commits_to_st_johns_picks_steve_lavins_red_storm_over_washingt.html#ixzz1KxVCslJP (http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/college/2011/04/28/2011-04-28_gods_gift_achiuwa_commits_to_st_johns_picks_steve_lavins_red_storm_over_washingt.html#ixzz1KxVCslJP)
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Good to have some beef. I think he will be a 15 minute guy. Huge jump from ny juco to big east...Garrett, Sampson,and Greene all faced better comp this past year...Pointer as well. We actually have a very seasoned high school groupcoming in.
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Good to have some beef. I think he will be a 15 minute guy. Huge jump from ny juco to big east...Garrett, Sampson,and Greene all faced better comp this past year...Pointer as well. We actually have a very seasoned high school groupcoming in.
Yes, it is huge jump from D2 JUCO hoops to the Big East, but that doesn't mean he won't be able to hold his own. It's also a big jump from small hoops ball to the NBA, but some guys have been able to make the leap.
You say those guys faced better comp than GG, huh? I guess you're trying to make the point that he'll see less minutes than the kids you've mentioned due to his comp, right? If, someone can play then they can play.
Yes, we will have a well-seasoned group of kids coming in. You can add Harkless to that bunch, as well.
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Good to have some beef. I think he will be a 15 minute guy. Huge jump from ny juco to big east...Garrett, Sampson,and Greene all faced better comp this past year...Pointer as well. We actually have a very seasoned high school groupcoming in.
Harkless played in the same league as sampson so add him to the list. Can not wait for these kids to touch the court next year
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I would be happy if he is able to play 15 strong minutes. Maybe more against the bigger teams.
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Good to have some beef. I think he will be a 15 minute guy. Huge jump from ny juco to big east...Garrett, Sampson,and Greene all faced better comp this past year...Pointer as well. We actually have a very seasoned high school groupcoming in.
Yes, it is huge jump from D2 JUCO hoops to the Big East, but that doesn't mean he won't be able to hold his own. It's also a big jump from small hoops ball to the NBA, but some guys have been able to make the leap.
You say those guys faced better comp than GG, huh? I guess you're trying to make the point that he'll see less minutes than the kids you've mentioned due to his comp, right? If, someone can play then they can play.
Yes, we will have a well-seasoned group of kids coming in. You can add Harkless to that bunch, as well.
Youlove trying to put words in my mouth, Huh? GG will not get mins bc he is probably not on the same planet as the rest of the class in terms of skill. Bringing up thelevel of comp only addresses those that think he will be ready to play simply bc he was a juco. Erie is not chipola. The one advantage playing juco over an elite hs league gives him is that he was playing against men,albeit less skilled and talented but still men.
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Youlove trying to put words in my mouth, Huh? GG will not get mins bc he is probably not on the same planet as the rest of the class in terms of skill. Bringing up thelevel of comp only addresses those that think he will be ready to play simply bc he was a juco. Erie is not chipola. The one advantage playing juco over an elite hs league gives him is that he was playing against men,albeit less skilled and talented but still men.
I don't like putting words in your mouth. You do a good job of doing that yourself. I just reiterate what you say. Maybe, not verbatim but it comes out to the same thing. Not to mention, you just proved my point. You've practically said the same thing I asked what you said.
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God's Gift ranked 24th by JucoRecruiting.com out of top 100.
http://www.jucorecruiting.com/?page_id=434 (http://www.jucorecruiting.com/?page_id=434)
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Not sure if this ESPN interview with GG was posted yet, but regardless, here it is:
http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/30444/video-a-conversation-with-gods-gift (http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/30444/video-a-conversation-with-gods-gift)
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Not sure if this ESPN interview with GG was posted yet, but regardless, here it is:
http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/30444/video-a-conversation-with-gods-gift (http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/30444/video-a-conversation-with-gods-gift)
I wonder if Dana still likes to throw some back. All the drinking hasn't taken a toll on her yet. She's holding up good for 40. GG is now GJG - God and Johnnies Gift - I'm glad he's on board, if only to deliver 4 hard fouls a game and 4-5 rebs
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Just to let you new guys know...all you have to do to post a video is post the actual link and the forum will embed it...
God's Gift To St. John's - ESPN Video - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=6465712)
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I'm a little surprised he didn't have a St. John's hat or shirt on.
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I'm a little surprised he didn't have a St. John's hat or shirt on.
I thought the same thing Dave. I guess he's showing Erie CC some love for being the first school and BB program that he has experienced in the U.S.
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I was really impressed with the interview. He sounds like such a nice young man.
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I think his Traps weigh more than me. Holy Christ.
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I think his Traps weigh more than me. Holy Christ.
GG is built you have to give him that. He also looked fairly athletic and seemed to possess a decent touch from the few clips they showed. I have a feeling GG is going to be a good player for us and will not be out-worked in the weight room and practice.
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I'm a little surprised he didn't have a St. John's hat or shirt on.
Does the campus store have any?
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Was told on Friday by most reliable sources that he is now on campus and that the kid is big and his size alone will help for next season.
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This week on the Fan, Boomer mentioned that his son Gunner is taking a summer class at SJU and that GG was in his class. His son told him that GG was smart and actively contributed to class discussions.
FWIW
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God's Gift is in fact on campus and working out. I saw him in Taffner Field house the other day running with Stith. He is a big kid, not sure how tall he is but he's built like a mack truck. He seems to be in great shape and I like that he is here early and already working on his game. He has an NBA body and we are going to need his bulk inside.
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God's Gift is in fact on campus and working out. I saw him in Taffner Field house the other day running with Stith. He is a big kid, not sure how tall he is but he's built like a mack truck. He seems to be in great shape and I like that he is here early and already working on his game. He has an NBA body and we are going to need his bulk inside.
Great to hear Wods! What about Stith? Howd he look?
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They were doing more running and drills than actual playing when I was there but Stith is in very good shape also he was running these tough drills with the strength and conditioning coach with relative ease. He looks to have added some muscle to his frame which is good, I hope he is working on his shot. I will be around campus on and off and I will see how the guys are looking in these summer workouts.
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God's Gift is in fact on campus and working out. I saw him in Taffner Field house the other day running with Stith. He is a big kid, not sure how tall he is but he's built like a mack truck. He seems to be in great shape and I like that he is here early and already working on his game. He has an NBA body and we are going to need his bulk inside.
Great to hear Wods! What about Stith? Howd he look?
Lonely?
:)
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They were doing more running and drills than actual playing when I was there but Stith is in very good shape also he was running these tough drills with the strength and conditioning coach with relative ease. He looks to have added some muscle to his frame which is good, I hope he is working on his shot. I will be around campus on and off and I will see how the guys are looking in these summer workouts.
Nice! I think I remember Lavin pointing out how hard Stith trained. He'll make a good captain
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They were doing more running and drills than actual playing when I was there but Stith is in very good shape also he was running these tough drills with the strength and conditioning coach with relative ease. He looks to have added some muscle to his frame which is good, I hope he is working on his shot. I will be around campus on and off and I will see how the guys are looking in these summer workouts.
Nice! I think I remember Lavin pointing out how hard Stith trained. He'll make a good captain
Agreed. Hopefully Stith sets a good example, but GG and Nuri are about the same age, hopefully they roll in with some maturity/ leadership.
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Apparently, everyone has been spelling his name wrong. It's actually spelled God'sgift Achiuwa.
DID YOU KNOW?: God'sgift Achiuwa just corrected us and all of America on the spelling of his first name! #stjbb
http://twitter.com/#!/STJ_Basketball/status/80711672758673408 (http://twitter.com/#!/STJ_Basketball/status/80711672758673408)
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I keep forgetting that GG is an incoming junior. I believe his two years of JC ball will work out well, not just at his position, but for the poise of the freshmen.
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I keep forgetting that GG is an incoming junior. I believe his two years of JC ball will work out well, not just at his position, but for the poise of the freshmen.
One good aspect is that his body is physically mature. He's built like a monster. This summer he's on campus and can work on the skills he needs instead of just working on weights, which he can pretty much leave alone. I think he'll be used to enforce the post, especially on defense, and hopefully he's good for some reasonable amount of offense.
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Ask God'sgift Achiuwa what he prefers to be called, and his answer is as simple as it is obvious. "God'sgift," he says.
After all, it is his given name, and he wears it with pride. That's not to say he minds if friends shorten it to "Gift," as a nickname, and he understands the curiosity his name provokes in strangers. When the 6-9, 240-pound junior-college transfer takes the basketball court...
Read More: (Newsday Subscription required)
http://www.newsday.com/sports/college/college-basketball/god-sgift-happy-to-be-at-st-john-s-1.3047018 (http://www.newsday.com/sports/college/college-basketball/god-sgift-happy-to-be-at-st-john-s-1.3047018)
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Ask God'sgift Achiuwa what he prefers to be called, and his answer is as simple as it is obvious. "God'sgift," he says.
After all, it is his given name, and he wears it with pride. That's not to say he minds if friends shorten it to "Gift," as a nickname, and he understands the curiosity his name provokes in strangers. When the 6-9, 240-pound junior-college transfer takes the basketball court...
Read More: (Newsday Subscription required)
http://www.newsday.com/sports/college/college-basketball/god-sgift-happy-to-be-at-st-john-s-1.3047018 (http://www.newsday.com/sports/college/college-basketball/god-sgift-happy-to-be-at-st-john-s-1.3047018)
http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;JSESSIONID=F059BCCF9A0015C5D28A.3133?site=newsday&view=sports_college_item&feed:a=newsday_5min&feed:c=sports_college&feed:i=1.3047018 (http://mobile.newsday.com/inf/infomo;JSESSIONID=F059BCCF9A0015C5D28A.3133?site=newsday&view=sports_college_item&feed:a=newsday_5min&feed:c=sports_college&feed:i=1.3047018)
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Yet another perpetual media story to keep St. John's fresh in the minds of sports fans :) I bet SportsCenter goes out of its way to show highlights of God'sgift just so they can say the name!
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this kid is a beast
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2019276770420&set=a.1560663745381.72583.1498924405&type=1&theater (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2019276770420&set=a.1560663745381.72583.1498924405&type=1&theater)
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2058445749620&set=a.1560663745381.72583.1498924405&type=1&theater (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=2058445749620&set=a.1560663745381.72583.1498924405&type=1&theater)
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I can take him in a fight.
Seriously though that is a Big East ready body. You are not backing that guy up at all. that block is his.
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I saw him walking on Utopia Parkway with Mike Dunlap. He is a physical specimen.
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I saw him walking on Utopia Parkway with Mike Dunlap. He is a physical specimen.
Pardon the sarcasm, but I remember thinking the same thing about Dele Coker.
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I saw him walking on Utopia Parkway with Mike Dunlap. He is a physical specimen.
Pardon the sarcasm, but I remember thinking the same thing about Dele Coker.
Coker with more than 1 year of Lavin/Dunlap/Hines/etc. might have been interesting...
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Pardon the sarcasm, but I remember thinking the same thing about Dele Coker.
[/quote]
Coker with more than 1 year of Lavin/Dunlap/Hines/etc. might have been interesting...
[/quote]
I agree the game just needed to slow down for Coker. He had the tools.
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I saw him walking on Utopia Parkway with Mike Dunlap. He is a physical specimen.
Pardon the sarcasm, but I remember thinking the same thing about Dele Coker.
Just because GodsGift and Coker are from the same continent doesn't mean they have the same game. GodsGift looks like quite a different player.
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I saw him walking on Utopia Parkway with Mike Dunlap. He is a physical specimen.
Pardon the sarcasm, but I remember thinking the same thing about Dele Coker.
Just because GodsGift and Coker are from the same continent doesn't mean they have the same game. GodsGift looks like quite a different player.
How much have you seen him play?
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I saw him walking on Utopia Parkway with Mike Dunlap. He is a physical specimen.
Pardon the sarcasm, but I remember thinking the same thing about Dele Coker.
Just because GodsGift and Coker are from the same continent doesn't mean they have the same game. GodsGift looks like quite a different player.
UCLA reference - I'd more than settle for another Alfred Aboya (backup center/PF on 3 final four teams, starting center as a senior on a team that made the 2nd round of the dance despite losing Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook and Luc Mbah a Moute from the previous year's team)...
(http://www.interbasket.net/news/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/alfredaboya.jpg)
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I saw him walking on Utopia Parkway with Mike Dunlap. He is a physical specimen.
Pardon the sarcasm, but I remember thinking the same thing about Dele Coker.
Coker with more than 1 year of Lavin/Dunlap/Hines/etc. might have been interesting...
I said the same thing before last season and thought Coker should have been redshirted. 1 year with this staff would have done Dele and the team some good. Worst case scenario, they have another big to go up against in practice, and in games-he could possibly spell GG for 3 minutes per half before he fouls out
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I saw him walking on Utopia Parkway with Mike Dunlap. He is a physical specimen.
Pardon the sarcasm, but I remember thinking the same thing about Dele Coker.
Coker with more than 1 year of Lavin/Dunlap/Hines/etc. might have been interesting...
I said the same thing before last season and thought Coker should have been redshirted. 1 year with this staff would have done Dele and the team some good. Worst case scenario, they have another big to go up against in practice, and in games-he could possibly spell GG for 3 minutes per half before he fouls out
Coker was useless for us last year after an entire season with the staff. Give it up, guys. I liked his shot-blocking potential, but the staff saw NOTHING in him. He wouldn't see any pt with the talent we have. He doesnt fit into this style at all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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I saw him walking on Utopia Parkway with Mike Dunlap. He is a physical specimen.
Pardon the sarcasm, but I remember thinking the same thing about Dele Coker.
Coker with more than 1 year of Lavin/Dunlap/Hines/etc. might have been interesting...
I said the same thing before last season and thought Coker should have been redshirted. 1 year with this staff would have done Dele and the team some good. Worst case scenario, they have another big to go up against in practice, and in games-he could possibly spell GG for 3 minutes per half before he fouls out
Only saw GG once in a full game but I'll say it again. He is much different than Coker when it comes to defense. Coker was a walking foul machine. GG is very much under control. The game I saw he played the whole 40 minutes picked up 3 fouls and 1 was offensive. I don't think he will be anything like Coker on the defensive end.
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Coker had zero instincts for the game. Four years of the same old mistakes over and over again. And I don't think even this coaching staff would have made much difference. He was as bad last year as he was in his previous three.
I'm looking forward to seeing what GG can give us this year, but, without stereotyping him (well, maybe I am) he's following in some pretty questionable footsteps: Mohamed Diakite, Abe Keita, and Dele Coker.
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he may be following some questionable footsteps, but he was evaluated by a much better staff. Lavin would not have signed any of those mentioned. In Lavin I trust
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I think GG is a bandaid with his size and experience, but a Lavin bandaid is better than what a lot of schools bring in as their top recruit. He is intelligent, a good kid off the court, God-fearing, and is 30 lbs heavier and a world stronger than anyone else we have right now. He seems to have some fire too...Coker didn't.
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I think GG is a bandaid with his size and experience, but a Lavin bandaid is better than what a lot of schools bring in as their top recruit. He is intelligent, a good kid off the court, God-fearing, and is 30 lbs heavier and a world stronger than anyone else we have right now. He seems to have some fire too...Coker didn't.
I agree Coker was awful. But who backsup GG, Phil Greene?
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I think GG is a bandaid with his size and experience, but a Lavin bandaid is better than what a lot of schools bring in as their top recruit. He is intelligent, a good kid off the court, God-fearing, and is 30 lbs heavier and a world stronger than anyone else we have right now. He seems to have some fire too...Coker didn't.
I agree Coker was awful. But who backsup GG, Phil Greene?
Just a guess, but maybe the rivals #1 ranked center Norvel Pelle? :idiot2:
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I think GG is a bandaid with his size and experience, but a Lavin bandaid is better than what a lot of schools bring in as their top recruit. He is intelligent, a good kid off the court, God-fearing, and is 30 lbs heavier and a world stronger than anyone else we have right now. He seems to have some fire too...Coker didn't.
I agree Coker was awful. But who backsup GG, Phil Greene?
Just a guess, but maybe the rivals #1 ranked center Norvel Pelle? :idiot2:
I was thinking both would be on the court at same time, but you might be right
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Jakkar Sampson is a top 40 forward...do you want him to just sit?
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I think GG is a bandaid with his size and experience, but a Lavin bandaid is better than what a lot of schools bring in as their top recruit. He is intelligent, a good kid off the court, God-fearing, and is 30 lbs heavier and a world stronger than anyone else we have right now. He seems to have some fire too...Coker didn't.
I agree Coker was awful. But who backsup GG, Phil Greene?
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Just a guess, but maybe the rivals #1 ranked center Norvel Pelle? :idiot2:
I was thinking both would be on the court at same time, but you might be right
I don't think we'll see both on the court all that much. We will at times against big teams, but often we'll go "small" and see a guy like Jakarr or Harkless in there at PF with our other wings at the same time. I think Pelle and GG will most often alternate at center
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I think GG is a bandaid with his size and experience ... He is intelligent, a good kid off the court, God-fearing, and is 30 lbs heavier and a world stronger than anyone else we have right now ...
Sounds like Mike Huckabee.
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I think GG is a bandaid with his size and experience ... He is intelligent, a good kid off the court, God-fearing, and is 30 lbs heavier and a world stronger than anyone else we have right now ...
Sounds like Mike Huckabee.
GG isn't a self-loathing closet homosexual.
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FWIW - Steve's championship experience is that 1995 UCLA natinal championship team. Folks probably remember that 7'0 255 George Zidek was the big presensce inside for the Bruins. What many DON'T remember is that big George was asthmatic and played only 23 minutes a game for the Bruins. Even with a 6'8 200 power forward in Ed O'Bannon, when Zidek was out, the backup (despite two near 7 footers on the bench) was JR Henderson - a 6'8 205 lb FRESHMAN combo forward.
That was a 7 man rotation for the title run - C: Zidek, PF: Ed Obannon, SF: Charles O'Bannon, PG: Tyus Edney and SF: Toby Bailey, with Cameron Dollar and JR as the backups. Ed, Charles, Zidek and Edney played their respective positions exclusively. But Dollar filled in at both Guard Spots, Bailey played both guard and backup SF, and JR played C, PF and even some SF. In the title game vs Arkansas, it was a 6 man rotation, as Tyus tried to play with a broken wrist, but only got the 90 seconds at the start before he had to sit.
This is Steve Lavin. Don't be surprised to see anyone from GG to Norvel to Jakarr to Mo playing minutes at the 5. In fact, don't be surprised to see any player playing any position (well, Stith anywhere but the backcourt WOULD be a shock - but any of the other guards playing on the wing, or any of the wings playing in the backcourt or one of the Posts is certainly a possibility)...
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In fact, don't be surprised to see any player playing any position (well, Stith anywhere but the backcourt WOULD be a shock - but any of the other guards playing on the wing, or any of the wings playing in the backcourt or one of the Posts is certainly a possibility)...
I definitely predict a Greene/Lindsey/Harrison/Pointer/Harkless sighting against one of our weaker opponents.
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I think GG is a bandaid with his size and experience ... He is intelligent, a good kid off the court, God-fearing, and is 30 lbs heavier and a world stronger than anyone else we have right now ...
Sounds like Mike Huckabee.
GG isn't a self-loathing closet homosexual.
i am at my computer dying with laughter right now. you guys are hilarious.
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I think GG is a bandaid with his size and experience, but a Lavin bandaid is better than what a lot of schools bring in as their top recruit. He is intelligent, a good kid off the court, God-fearing, and is 30 lbs heavier and a world stronger than anyone else we have right now. He seems to have some fire too...Coker didn't.
I agree Coker was awful. But who backsup GG, Phil Greene?
.
Just a guess, but maybe the rivals #1 ranked center Norvel Pelle? :idiot2:
I was thinking both would be on the court at same time, but you might be right
I don't think we'll see both on the court all that much. We will at times against big teams, but often we'll go "small" and see a guy like Jakarr or Harkless in there at PF with our other wings at the same time. I think Pelle and GG will most often alternate at center
Pelle better pan out, cause I just heard GG is a beast but not good. Also Harkless and Sampson are taller than GG
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Interview with God'sgift....
http://www.redstormsports.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/090611aaa.html (http://www.redstormsports.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/090611aaa.html)
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I am just happy that Gift is not another Dele Coker or Abe Keita.. that was my fear before seeing him in person.. just watching him during their round robin, I could tell that he is more athletic than Coker and hopefully that could translate to less useless fouls and better offensive putbacks.. he actually did the eastbay funk dunk (ball between the legs in midair)
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Per Rumble in the Garden....
http://www.rumbleinthegarden.com/2011/10/14/2489755/baselines-what-can-we-expect-from-godsgift-achiuwa (http://www.rumbleinthegarden.com/2011/10/14/2489755/baselines-what-can-we-expect-from-godsgift-achiuwa)
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I am just happy that Gift is not another Dele Coker or Abe Keita.. that was my fear before seeing him in person.. just watching him during their round robin, I could tell that he is more athletic than Coker and hopefully that could translate to less useless fouls and better offensive putbacks.. he actually did the eastbay funk dunk (ball between the legs in midair)
He is a nice athletic big man, probably would be better suited for the 4. I was impressed with his quickness at the tip off
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I am just happy that Gift is not another Dele Coker or Abe Keita.. that was my fear before seeing him in person.. just watching him during their round robin, I could tell that he is more athletic than Coker and hopefully that could translate to less useless fouls and better offensive putbacks.. he actually did the eastbay funk dunk (ball between the legs in midair)
He is a nice athletic big man, probably would be better suited for the 4. I was impressed with his quickness at the tip off
Let's hope we can get Norvel cleared for December. It would help both guys.
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I am just happy that Gift is not another Dele Coker or Abe Keita.. that was my fear before seeing him in person.. just watching him during their round robin, I could tell that he is more athletic than Coker and hopefully that could translate to less useless fouls and better offensive putbacks.. he actually did the eastbay funk dunk (ball between the legs in midair)
He is a nice athletic big man, probably would be better suited for the 4. I was impressed with his quickness at the tip off
Let's hope we can get Norvel cleared for December. It would help both guys.
Let's hope that Norvel can get Norvel cleared.
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I am just happy that Gift is not another Dele Coker or Abe Keita.. that was my fear before seeing him in person.. just watching him during their round robin, I could tell that he is more athletic than Coker and hopefully that could translate to less useless fouls and better offensive putbacks.. he actually did the eastbay funk dunk (ball between the legs in midair)
He is a nice athletic big man, probably would be better suited for the 4. I was impressed with his quickness at the tip off
Let's hope we can get Norvel cleared for December. It would help both guys.
Let's hope that Norvel can get Norvel cleared.
With the NCAA handing out the decisions haphazardly, its not always just in the kid's hands. Yes, if all the kids aced all their tests through their career they wouldn't be in that position. Norvel seems to be getting A's at Phelps now. I don't know what he needs to make it on board in December though, so I can't say.
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I am just happy that Gift is not another Dele Coker or Abe Keita.. that was my fear before seeing him in person.. just watching him during their round robin, I could tell that he is more athletic than Coker and hopefully that could translate to less useless fouls and better offensive putbacks.. he actually did the eastbay funk dunk (ball between the legs in midair)
He is a nice athletic big man, probably would be better suited for the 4. I was impressed with his quickness at the tip off
Can't resist another opportunity... Quick off the floor, then lays down The Hammer...
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I am just happy that Gift is not another Dele Coker or Abe Keita.. that was my fear before seeing him in person.. just watching him during their round robin, I could tell that he is more athletic than Coker and hopefully that could translate to less useless fouls and better offensive putbacks.. he actually did the eastbay funk dunk (ball between the legs in midair)
He is a nice athletic big man, probably would be better suited for the 4. I was impressed with his quickness at the tip off
Let's hope we can get Norvel cleared for December. It would help both guys.
Let's hope that Norvel can get Norvel cleared.
With the NCAA handing out the decisions haphazardly, its not always just in the kid's hands. Yes, if all the kids aced all their tests through their career they wouldn't be in that position. Norvel seems to be getting A's at Phelps now. I don't know what he needs to make it on board in December though, so I can't say.
Actually, the 2A is not haphazard - they are nailing everyone this year. Blackshear's gonna fall next, then Alex Len at Maryland. The key will be the followup appeals and how good the paperwork is. The 2A is trying to discourage schools from taking on borderline players. It won't stop schools, but the 2A's hypocrisy lies out in front for all to see. No active education program given to HSers and their admins. Many admins try, but they're not getting through enough to the guys who need it most.
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I am just happy that Gift is not another Dele Coker or Abe Keita.. that was my fear before seeing him in person.. just watching him during their round robin, I could tell that he is more athletic than Coker and hopefully that could translate to less useless fouls and better offensive putbacks.. he actually did the eastbay funk dunk (ball between the legs in midair)
He is a nice athletic big man, probably would be better suited for the 4. I was impressed with his quickness at the tip off
Let's hope we can get Norvel cleared for December. It would help both guys.
Let's hope that Norvel can get Norvel cleared.
With the NCAA handing out the decisions haphazardly, its not always just in the kid's hands. Yes, if all the kids aced all their tests through their career they wouldn't be in that position. Norvel seems to be getting A's at Phelps now. I don't know what he needs to make it on board in December though, so I can't say.
Actually, the 2A is not haphazard - they are nailing everyone this year. Blackshear's gonna fall next, then Alex Len at Maryland. The key will be the followup appeals and how good the paperwork is. The 2A is trying to discourage schools from taking on borderline players. It won't stop schools, but the 2A's hypocrisy lies out in front for all to see. No active education program given to HSers and their admins. Many admins try, but they're not getting through enough to the guys who need it most.
Blackshear is supposed to get cleared according to some 'experts'.
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They declared 3 of our guys ineligible just because they didn't believe their grades from a previously NCAA approved school. If they weren't going to accept grades from Rise academy, then they should have said so prior. Making a decision like that at the last minute when the kids had requisite grades is indeed haphazard. The staff nor the kids had any way of knowing and they did take the classes they needed to.
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A dunk line is a dunk line but to dispel the Coker comparisons Gift was throwing down between the legs windmill dunks on Friday. I don't think Coker could have ever even attempted anything like that.
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A dunk line is a dunk line but to dispel the Coker comparisons Gift was throwing down between the legs windmill dunks on Friday. I don't think Coker could have ever even attempted anything like that.
From what I had heard from multiple people on this site Coker was the greatest warmup player of all time. Unfortunately during games he turned into Sean Muto.
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A dunk line is a dunk line but to dispel the Coker comparisons Gift was throwing down between the legs windmill dunks on Friday. I don't think Coker could have ever even attempted anything like that.
From what I had heard from multiple people on this site Coker was the greatest warmup player of all time. Unfortunately during games he turned into Sean Muto.
Coker couldnt jump over a phone book.
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yup.. that's why I said... he looks to be more athletic than Coker and I hope that translates to less useless fouls and more putbacks
A dunk line is a dunk line but to dispel the Coker comparisons Gift was throwing down between the legs windmill dunks on Friday. I don't think Coker could have ever even attempted anything like that.
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I am just happy that Gift is not another Dele Coker or Abe Keita.. that was my fear before seeing him in person.. just watching him during their round robin, I could tell that he is more athletic than Coker and hopefully that could translate to less useless fouls and better offensive putbacks.. he actually did the eastbay funk dunk (ball between the legs in midair)
He is a nice athletic big man, probably would be better suited for the 4. I was impressed with his quickness at the tip off
Let's hope we can get Norvel cleared for December. It would help both guys.
Let's hope that Norvel can get Norvel cleared.
With the NCAA handing out the decisions haphazardly, its not always just in the kid's hands. Yes, if all the kids aced all their tests through their career they wouldn't be in that position. Norvel seems to be getting A's at Phelps now. I don't know what he needs to make it on board in December though, so I can't say.
Uh oh-all A's? That scares me. Mix in a few C's and B's will you Norvelle. ;) :)
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I am just happy that Gift is not another Dele Coker or Abe Keita.. that was my fear before seeing him in person.. just watching him during their round robin, I could tell that he is more athletic than Coker and hopefully that could translate to less useless fouls and better offensive putbacks.. he actually did the eastbay funk dunk (ball between the legs in midair)
He is a nice athletic big man, probably would be better suited for the 4. I was impressed with his quickness at the tip off
Let's hope we can get Norvel cleared for December. It would help both guys.
Let's hope that Norvel can get Norvel cleared.
With the NCAA handing out the decisions haphazardly, its not always just in the kid's hands. Yes, if all the kids aced all their tests through their career they wouldn't be in that position. Norvel seems to be getting A's at Phelps now. I don't know what he needs to make it on board in December though, so I can't say.
Uh oh-all A's? That scares me. Mix in a few C's and B's will you Norvelle. ;) :)
If he keeps taking trips to the West Coast, he might mix in a few D's and F's.
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What a pick-up this guy is. WOW. He is a beast. Very excited to see him progress over the course of this season. God's on our side!
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Coach glad to see you contributing to the board. Now that Gift is on the team we can talk about him in the "In the Jungle" board. This is all about the recruiting process and is now archived.