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Chat Transcript: Talk Notre Dame basketball with Tom Noie

3:21 pm, April 11, 2012

Tom Noie is answering readers' Notre Dame basketball questions in a live chat. Join him.

 Live Chat: Talk Notre Dame basketball with Tom Noie(04/11/2012) 
11:56
sbtnoie: 
Greetings. One last item on the agenda remains before the book officially closes on the 2011-12 Notre Dame men's basketball season. Tonight is the annual Notre Dame basketball banquet - sort of.

The format has been changed (and not a moment too soon). Instead of a sit-down, drawn-out dinner where the outgoing seniors seemingly recite the same speech thanking the same support staff, tonight's get-together is far more fan-friendly and, hopefully, far less stuffy.

The usual banquets have run nearly three hours.....tonight's may be over by 8:30 which would be a school record.

It's called the Notre Dame men's basketball awards show, complete with guided tours of the Irish basketball facilities. Sure would be nice to show off a new hoops-only practice facility, but that's a story for another day.

Even though it's the offseason, plenty of questions remain for the Irish. When will the NCAA rule on the potential sixth seasons for Tim Abromaitis and Scott Martin? Where might transfer Alex Dragicevich land? How's Eric Katenda progressing and can he eventually help?

Have a question or comment, be sure to include your name and hometown. Spring football? Baseball season? Ha! Around here it's all hoops all the time - back after a week of vacation.......who's ready?

Let's go.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 11:56 sbtnoie
11:59
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Tom, any idea when the Abro and Martin questions will be answered? Seems odd that guys like Mbawkwe have already had rulings and we're still waiting
Wednesday April 11, 2012 11:59 Mike C.
12:03
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Good to hear from you. When it comes to waiting on a ruling from the NCAA.....it's anyone's guess. It could be in the next hour, the next day, the next week or the next month.

I don't know what the timetable was with Trevor Mbakwe at Minnesota but Scott Martin filed his initial request for a sixth season in December.....and Tim Abromaitis was about six, seven weeks behind him in getting all the necessary paperwork in.

That may not matter in the timetable of hearing a decision, but the feeling around the program has remained the same - they feel good about Martin's chances given his family situation (his father underwent treatment for eye cancer during Martin's sit-out season at Notre Dame).

Abromaitis is a long-shot, but if' you're looking at someone who personifies what "student-athlete" is all about, it's Abromaitis, so why not reward him for maxing out his college experience?

Still, it wouldn't surprise me if something was announced regarding Martin is announced at tonight's awards show. Stay tuned to the SBT.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:03 sbtnoie
12:03
[Comment From Jon (South Bend)Jon (South Bend): ] 
I wouldn't mind answers to your first two questions.. When will the NCAA rule and where might Drago head?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:03 Jon (South Bend)
12:05
sbtnoie: 
Jon:

Don't know and don't know....how's that for hard-hitting answers? Still too early to tell with both.

If Alex Dragicevich attends tonight's awards show, I'll see if he has any more concrete plans on where he might transfer. It was still too early in the process when news of his exit arrived two weeks ago.

But I'd be shocked if he goes to a power-six conference. If the guy sticks to his reasons about leaving - he wants to start and play major minutes - it's best for him to land somewhere in the Horizon League, the Mid-American Conference or Missouri Valley.

Northwestern would seem logical since he's a suburban Chicago kid, but I don't know if he can take the chance of picking a school where he might be a main player for one year, then a bit player the next. If that's the case, he should have stayed at Notre Dame.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:05 sbtnoie
12:05
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
You've mentioned before that a practice facility isn't going to happen overnight. Any sense from the higher-ups that it's at least a priority (which would be an improvement over the previous regime, at least)?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:05 Mike C.
12:08
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Everyone over at Notre Dame talks about how a stand-alone practice facility is a "priority" but that's also what they said about the arena. We've been down this road before - yes, they want to get something done, but you know what becoems the main issue - money.

Notre Dame could go out tomorrow and break ground on a state-of-the-art facility and have more than enough money to pay for everything involved. But nearly all the funds for a building need to be in hand before the shovel goes into the dirt.

What are we talking? If you're going to do it right, it could run $20-30 million, which is about how much the arena renovation cost.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:08 sbtnoie
12:08
[Comment From Gary DGary D: ] 
I can't understand the empty seats at the games, the student section should be rocking all the time like it was for Syr. I know that winter break feeds into it, but with the fantastic showing of the team, the games should always be sold out.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:08 Gary D
12:10
sbtnoie: 
Gary:

I've beat that dead horse for years - time for me to move on. I get the same old tired excuses - quality of competition, cost of tickets, too many academic commitments, blah, blah, blah.

A team that has gone 31-9 since floundering along at 6-8 when Luke Harangody went down with his injury two-plus years ago deserves far better support than it receives.

It's sad that Notre Dame seemingly gets more respect outside of South Bend than inside.

Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:10 sbtnoie
12:10
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
Tom, we do not read a lot about Burgett. Where does he fit into the rotation long term? Is he a power forward or a small forward and what skill sets does he bring to the table?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:10 Rob
12:13
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

Who knows how any f the three incoming freshmen - Zach Auguste, Cameron Biedscheid and Austin Burgett - fit into the plans? I don't think the coaches know, and likely won't be able to move forward, until figuring out if Abromaitis and Martin are going to return.

I'll have a better idea of each once they get up here for summer school and run pickup games during basketball camp week. It's hard to draw any concrete conclusions, but at least you get to see how they play and interact with the returning guys.

Burgett is 6-8, 6-9 guy who reminds many of a combination of a young Tim Abromaitis or Rob Kurz. With the possible logjam up front of Martin, maybe, Abromaitis, maybe, Jack Cooley, Garrick Sherman and Tom Knight, minutes might be scarce to secure early, but that's OK.

He's going to be a good one.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:13 sbtnoie
12:13
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
I think the best chance for more butts in the seats is a stronger NC schedule. Any chance we'll see quality NC games at Purcell instead of at neutral sites?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:13 Mike C.
12:15
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Nope. The reason? There's so much power within the Big East schedule. That's hard to argue, given that the league schedule basically helped Notre Dame earn an NCAA tournament bid this season.

When people start talking about a better non-league game at home, I always go back to the Gonzaga game of 2010 - the Bulldogs were in the Top 25. Notre Dame had one loss and on the cusp of taking off to a 27-7 season. It was a Saturday night in early December - and the place still didn't sell out.

If that can't get people out, nothing will.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:15 sbtnoie
12:18
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Any thoughts on potential redshirts next year? With Abro/Martin possibly being available and the seeming logjam at the 3 position, could someone sit? I would have thought Drago was a candidate, but....
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:18 Mike C.
12:20
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Again, too early to tell until the sixth-year situations are determined. This will be the deepest, most talented team that Mike Brey may have ever had at Notre Dame. But don't expect him to suddenly play nine, 10, 11 guys heavy minutes. He is who he is - a coach comfortable with a limited rotation.

The core guys will continue to get the majority of the minutes, but there will be better depth at the back end of the rotation that will help balance out playing guys too many minutes.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:20 sbtnoie
12:21
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Jackson seems to be taking his time on his decision. With PG being so critical, what are the chances we'd see a new face transfer in?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:21 Mike C.
12:23
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

If the right situation presents itself (and it hasn't yet), Mike Brey has proven he's not adverse to adding a transfer.

Brey and his staff have made it crystal clear to Jackson how much they want him to be part of the program. If they feel they can be better with someone else, while still waiting for Jackson to make a decision, that might be a tough call they'll have to make.

Notre Dame can't sit still waiting for someone to make a decision. That's not fair to the progress of the program.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:23 sbtnoie
12:23
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
How does the roster look to you for next year in regards to being a dynamic rebounding team. It looks really good to me. Am I looking at it with rose colored glasses. I keep thinking we have the best roster that we have had in the last decade in that regard.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:23 Rob
12:26
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

This team will be able to rebound with anyone in the league next season with jack Cooley returning, with Scott Martin possibly returning and with Garrick Sherman becoming eligible.

Don't forget about the possibility of Eric Katenda offering something. Tom Knight will have to get better - quickly - otherwise he might scramble for minutes. He was pretty solid down the stretch. Another year for Jerian Grant will help him understand that he can get in there, get up and get a rebound, then get out on the break.

If the freshmen - Auguste, Biedscheid and Burgett - are strong enough to hold their own, there are many options. That means many more chances to do something this team struggled to do at times this season - get out in transition and run their way into some easy buckets.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:26 sbtnoie
12:27
[Comment From Old GoldOld Gold: ] 
How is Katenda progressing?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:27 Old Gold
12:29
sbtnoie: 
Old Gold:

I'll find out more tonight when Mike Brey meets the media following the awards show. Brey liked his simple skill set late in the year, but Katenda likely has yet to cut it loose in 5-on-5 scrimmage situations, and may not until fall. That's when the coaches will get a better idea how and maybe if he can help.

Just watching him shoot around before workouts late in the year, Katenda has some skills. But what happens once the game quickens and he has to battle for a loose ball in the lane? Is he timid??Can he properly see and catch and entry pass? Those are questions that likely still do not have any answers.

It's going to be a process with him and because of the depth of the roster, it can be a slow one.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:29 sbtnoie
12:30
[Comment From Gary DGary D: ] 
I really like what I hear about the new format tonight. My 2 young Grandsons were very excited to hear about the changes, the tours,etc. will keep their attention much more than speechs. Also, why are the ads on line here in Spanish?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:30 Gary D
12:31
sbtnoie: 
Gary:

Tonight's format will be very fan-friendly. You can can see the behind-the-scenes places like the locker room, the player lounge, the Pit - that you normally don't get to see. If you're a fan, it's a great way to get up close and personal with some of the guys.

Ads here in Spanish? Hmm....that's a new one. I can't answer that one.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:31 sbtnoie
12:32
[Comment From NJ IrishNJ Irish: ] 
Any chance with the higher caliber of talent arriving next season and the possible return of Martin/Ambro that Brey will go deeper into his bench and not begin post season with exhausted guards?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:32 NJ Irish
12:34
sbtnoie: 
Jersey:

We talked about depth a few questions ago, but Notre Dame is far from the only team in the country with exhausted guys. Every team is tired to a degree in the postseason.

Xavier's guards - Tu Holloway and Mark Lyons - played nearly the same amount of minutes this season as Notre Dame guards Eric Atkins and Jerian Grant. Difference was that when the game was there for the taking in the NCAA tournament, Holloway and Lyons simply were better.

That may not be the case next year.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:34 sbtnoie
12:34
[Comment From JakeJake: ] 
What is the timeframe for the Big East announcing the conference schedule and what are the definites on the NC schedule for '12-'13 season?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:34 Jake
12:38
sbtnoie: 
Jake:

The Big East will piece-mail the men's basketball schedules in the coming weeks. Usually the repeat opponents are announced in May, then the home and away onlys. The entire schedule usually is not finalized until late August. There have been times when the schedule has not been released until after Labor Day.

The definite non-league games for 2012-13 are two games at the Coaches vs. Cancer tournament at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., with Brigham Young, Florida State and St. Joseph's (Pa.). That's the same weekend as the home football game against Wake Forest.

Notre Dame also will play George Washington at home and Purdue in Indianapolis to close out the initial two-year Crossroads Classic. That's it in terms of "marquee" non-league games.The rest will be the "buy" games where Notre Dame plays a Delaware State or Maine or Dartmouth - those types of schools.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:38 sbtnoie
12:39
sbtnoie: 
Question of the Day time - Who do you think should earn Most Valuable Player honors tonight from this team? Why?

I'll offer my thoughts at the end of the chat.......fire away.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:39 sbtnoie
12:39
[Comment From Josh H.Josh H.: ] 
Has Coach Breys recruiting focus changed now that the landscape of the Big East has canged. Will he recruit more Indiana/midwestern kids?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:39 Josh H.
12:42
sbtnoie: 
Josh:

Not really.

Notre Dame continues to center its recruiting efforts on the Midwest - Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio and along the East Coast's I-95 corridor from New England to D.C. There are exceptions - Notre Dame went to St. Louis to sign Cameron Biedscheid because, a) he was really good and b) he had a high interest in the program.

Notre Dame has to do it differently than any other school in the Big East when it comes to finding the right "fit" in terms of academics and athletics. Wherever those "fits" are from, Notre Dame will recruit them. It's more important to find that fit than for Mike Brey to say, we've got to get an Indiana kid or a local kid or a New York kid.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:42 sbtnoie
12:42
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Any chance if fans see what the Pit actually looks like, they'll see better the need for a practice facility?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:42 Mike C.
12:44
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Absolutely fans will be able to see The Pit, which has undergone some serious upgrades in the last dozen years or so. There was a time during the John MacLeod years where pole vault cushion mats would be stacked in one corner and the boxing team would be training behind one curtain during hoops practice. It's come a long way since, but the team really needs something more. Something better. Something modern.

Something that tells everyone that the school is serious about hoops.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:44 sbtnoie
12:44
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Speaking of schedule, what's the current timeline for Big East departures and arrivals? I believe WVU is gone now. Will we see Pitt and Syracuse next year or any of the planned new teams?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:44 Mike C.
12:47
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

West Virginia is now a member of the Big 12. Pittsburgh and Syracuse technically have two years remaining in the Big East, but the league has said it is willing to negotiate this summer an agreement that the 2012-13 season will be the last for each in the Big East.

That likely means one final trip to the Carrier Dome and Petersen Events Center for Notre Dame next season. The incoming schools - Temple, Memphis, etc. - start arriving for the 2013-14 season.

Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:47 sbtnoie
12:47
[Comment From Ted S.Ted S.: ] 
Big East play... So 40 and 38 minutes (Atkins and Grant) are now the same as 36 and 32 minutes (Holloway and Lyons)? To quote GW, that's some fuzzy math.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:47 Ted S.
12:48
sbtnoie: 
Ted:

All played heavy minutes, right? Would you have rather had Joey Brooks and Alex Dragicevich on the floor for those 4 and 6 minute differences or Atkins and Grant?

Thought so.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:48 sbtnoie
12:48
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
I'd give it to Scott Martin. As his play improved, the cohesiveness and quality of the team's play did likewise
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:48 Mike C.
12:49
[Comment From NJ IrishNJ Irish: ] 
Re: MVP, it has to be Cooley. Not only for his improvement and stepping up with the departure of last years post players but without his presence on the blocks ND is maybe a .500 team.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:49 NJ Irish
12:49
[Comment From JakeJake: ] 
Have to go with Jack Cooley for MVP. The team went only as far as he could take them.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:49 Jake
12:49
[Comment From TJ from VTTJ from VT: ] 
Tom, thank you for the coverage over the past year....I thought it was excellent...in-depth and an honest assessment....my question(s)...since there is no answer on Abro and Martin, do they still practice with the team? The other question: Is the team practicing now or is this really the off-season....or rather, what is the team doing now and into the summer? Thank you.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:49 TJ from VT
12:51
sbtnoie: 
TJ:

Thanks for the kind words. College teams can workout in groups of four for two hours each week in the offseason. They guys will get together for pickup. Abromaitis and Martin remain a part of the program until the NCAA rules otherwise.

That's usually not the case - seniors who plan on making a run at pro basketball are busy in that arena but both want to come back and won't move on until the NCAA makes its ruling.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:51 sbtnoie
12:51
[Comment From Joe - NW South BendJoe - NW South Bend: ] 
Getting a commitment from Demtrius Jackson would be the biggest recruiting catch since????
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:51 Joe - NW South Bend
12:54
sbtnoie: 
Joe:

Trick question. It's hard to say that Demetrius Jackson will be a bigger get than Chris Thomas, who was Indiana Mr. Basketball and a McDonald's All-American.

From a public relations standpoint, it can be argued that it would be the biggest get in program history - a local kid who will make a run at Mr. Basketball staying home to play college basketball?

That's a story that would be tough to beat anywhere.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:54 sbtnoie
12:54
[Comment From Gary DGary D: ] 
Being a "Longtime" season ticket holder for both football and basketball, I looked at football as a way of life, basketball as a way to make the winter shorter. No longer, very excited about seeing this years basketball team. Just hope others feel the same way. Jack Cooley as MVP. His hustle and energy brought out the best in his teammates. With a special award to Abro, what the term student-athlete is all about
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:54 Gary D
12:54
[Comment From JimJim: ] 
Any chance (realistic) ever of scheduling a MWC team like New Mexico?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:54 Jim
12:59
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

No chance. Why? Nothing against New Mexico, but throw any Mountain West team in there and they would want a home-and-home at the very least. And that's where the problem arrives.

When do you schedule the return trip? Mike Brey wants early November games at home to see what he has, mid- to late-November games for an early-season tournament trip (New York, Maui, etc.) and December games at home to limit travel and prepare for the Big East, which starts in late December.

Brey vowed in 2009 that he would never, ever, ever schedule a non-league game in the middle of the league schedule like some teams do. That's when Notre Dame, in the midst of a six-game league losing streak, headed west and was waxed by 26 by UCLA.

Even before the bus left that day for LAX, Brey said never again will Notre Dame step out of the Big East to play a marquee non-league game.

Doesn't mean I agree. I would love to cover a game at the real Pit in Albuquerque. It's just not going to happen.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:59 sbtnoie
12:59
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
MVP. Cooley or Atkins. I go with Atkins since he played the most minutes. There had to be a reason for that. Plus, I am guard biased in college basketball.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:59 Rob
12:59
[Comment From TJ from VTTJ from VT: ] 
Have they figured out how the Big East tournament would be played next year with UConn on probation & WVU out of the conference?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:59 TJ from VT
1:01
sbtnoie: 
TJ:

Nope. Probably going to be one of the issues discussed at the league meetings next month. Shouldn't take too long to come up with a Plan B, or in this league's case, Plan X, Y, Z. The league tournament has changed so many times during my time on the beat that by the time you get used to it, everything again goes up for grabs.

I do know that there is talk that when the league expands to 20 hoops schools they will play as many as five games in a day at MSG. They now play four at 12 p.m., 2, 7 and 9.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:01 sbtnoie
1:02
[Comment From Kurt in NYCKurt in NYC: ] 
WRT to your MVP question, I'm going with Scott Martin. While Cooley & Grant had better overall stats, Martin did so much over the course of the year to get the team playing at the highest level they could through defense, on court coaching & leadership & overall effort - and accomplished all of that against the backdrop of losing Abro & being in a terrible offensive slump for the first 2 months of the season.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:02 Kurt in NYC
1:05
sbtnoie: 
On the subject of awards, how about Top Playmaker? Atkins or Grant? Atkins was the glue that kept it all together but Grant led the team in assists?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:05 sbtnoie
1:05
[Comment From Ted STed S: ] 
Yes, I would have liked to see Pat, Alex and Tom get some of those minutes. Yes, a few minutes rest would have greatly benefited Atkins and Grant during the long season. But let's not get off track. You made a statement that wasn't close to being true, and supplied it as evidence to support your reasoning.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:05 Ted S
1:09
sbtnoie: 
Ted:

Did we sidestep over to a court of law? Man, relax counselor. The bottom line is that when Xavier's guards needed to be good - and go and win the game - they did. Notre Dame's didn't.

Atkins and Grant were really good all year playing major minutes. They weren't when the season was on the line. Grant hit one of the season's biggest shots - a 3 - with 60 seconds remaining. Did his legs suddenly go dead afterward?

And sit Atkins and Grant for Connaughton, Dragicevich and Knight? Seriously?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:09 sbtnoie
1:09
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Atkins. Too many times Grant would make a move and get up in the air and realize he didn't know what to do with the ball
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:09 Mike C.
1:13
[Comment From WillyWilly: ] 
If Martin is granted a 6th year , what do you think about the Irish going with a big starting 5 next year of Atkins, Grant, Martin, Cooley and Sherman?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:13 Willy
1:15
sbtnoie: 
Willy:

That may work - eventually. If Martin is granted his sixth year, it's likely Notre Dame heads into the start of the season with the same starting five it ended with - Atkins, Grant, Connaughton, Martin and Cooley.

Sherman's going to be in the mix for major minutes (maybe as many as Holloway and Lyons, Ted). He may start a few games, and we'll have to see how Cameron Biedscheid fits - if he's really good, maybe he starts.

There are many options.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:15 sbtnoie
1:15
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
Cooley, and I don't think it's close... 13th in the Big East in scoring, 2nd in rebounding, 1st in offensive rebounding, 1st in field goal percentage, 4th in blocks. Also, he had no bad stats and even had a very nice 2.6 assist/turnover ratio. Others were very good, but Cooley's conference season was stellar.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:15 Kevin
1:16
sbtnoie: 
For MVP, right?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:16 sbtnoie
1:16
[Comment From NJ IrishNJ Irish: ] 
Not knowing anything about what kind of player he is, I'm pretty excited about Biedscheid. ESPN top 100 caliber talent is rare in South Bend. Can you tell me more about him? I’m hoping he’s the athletic, slasher, easy points type a talent the Irish need. Watching ND burn and labor for hoops vs., say Louisville effortlessly manufacturing points is an indicator of the talent gap.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:16 NJ Irish
1:18
sbtnoie: 
NJ:

Safe to say that with Biedscheid coming aboard, Sherman becoming eligible, a returning core and a possible bench boost, the burn gets stuffed in moth balls.

Biedscheid, at least on paper, gives Notre Dame something it didn't have this season - someone who can get to the basket and get a basket. At worst, he can get fouled and get to the foul line. The Irish struggled in that area this season.

Biedscheid has a chance to be special, but you have to see how he fits in at the college level - is he strong enough to take the pounding? Confident enough in his game? Going from prep standout to the Big East is a tough adjustment.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:18 sbtnoie
1:19
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
Another Biedscheid question... How is his surname pronounced?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:19 Kevin
1:19
sbtnoie: 
BEED-Shyed
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:19 sbtnoie
1:19
[Comment From AaronAaron: ] 
I have given up on Demtruis Jackson signing with ND, and have turned my attention to Kyle Washington. Where are we at with Mr. Washington?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:19 Aaron
1:20
sbtnoie: 
Aaron:

Probably the same place Notre Dame is at with Jackson, and Abromaitis and Martin. Waiting for the NCAA to rule so the staff can go ahead with offseason roster management.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:20 sbtnoie
1:22
[Comment From RogerRoger: ] 
Do you see a future Notre Dame / Duke match up? I think the Dukies in town would get the JACC rockin!!!
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:22 Roger
1:24
sbtnoie: 
Roger:

I'd sign up for it in a second, but unless Notre Dame decides to join the Atlantic Coast Conference, it isn't going to happen. Mike Brey not all interested in the whole teacher vs. pupil angle with Mike Krrzyzewski around.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:24 sbtnoie
1:24
[Comment From RobertRobert: ] 
Does Harvey Grant ever attend ND home games?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:24 Robert
1:26
sbtnoie: 
Robert:

Former NBA power forward Harvey Grant is the father of Irish sophomore guard Jerian Grant. Harvey was at a handful of home games this year, but not many. I talked with him during the two games at Verizon Center - Maryland and Georgetown - where he stood in the same spot (the runway that leads to the locker room) both times. I also saw him at the Seton Hall game at Prudential Center.

A solid nice guy but someone I get the impression likes to remain in the shadows when it comes to tracking Jerian's progress.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:26 sbtnoie
1:27
[Comment From SmittySmitty: ] 
I think college basketball in Indiana next year will be fantastic. Please give us your top 7 ranking between , ND, IU, Purdue, Butler, Ball St. Valpo, Indiana State
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:27 Smitty
1:30
sbtnoie: 
Smitty:

Great question.

Don't hold me to these - I finished last in our Tribune NCAA pool because I put exactly zero thought into the picks (little too busy with the Irish duties to become the resident Bracketologist). Here you go:

1. Indiana (Think a national No. 1 spot a bit of a reach).
2. Notre Dame (closer to No. 1 in the state than many may think if Abromaitis and Martin return).
3. Valparaiso (Bryce Drew a hot up-and-comer in the business).
4. Butler (Expect a bounce-back year)
5. Purdue (Robbie Hummel was the heart and soul of that program).
6. Ball State (Billy Taylor as solid a guy as there is in this racket).
7. Indiana State (That Bird guy still have any eligibility left?)
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:30 sbtnoie
1:31
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
Moving in on Tom's turf with an answer to a question... I was walking out of the JACC after a game and recognized a man standing in the tunnel with his wife, but I couldn't place him. I said hello thinking he'll engage me If we've met before, but he simply smiled and returned the hello. Once outside, I realized how I knew the face... It was the same face I'd seen for years watching the Bulls - Harvey's identical twin brother Horace.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:31 Kevin
1:31
sbtnoie: 
Solid family all around.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:31 sbtnoie
1:31
[Comment From Paul, South BendPaul, South Bend: ] 
Can't really argue with Cooley for MVP, but just to be contrary, I'll go with Grant. He was really the only guy on the team that could go get his own shot at any time, and without him they could have been awfully easy to guard, which would have dramatically affected Cooley's production.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:31 Paul, South Bend
1:32
sbtnoie: 
Hard to argue there.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:32 sbtnoie
1:32
[Comment From GuestGuest: ] 
good morning i just jumped on. sorry if you have answered this already but is there any chance tha tbaylor would have to forfeit their win in the girls game making nd national champs? thanks jack syracuse ny
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:32 Guest
1:33
sbtnoie: 
Jack:

Wrong board, but that's OK. There's always a chance Baylor would have to vacate its women's NCAA championship, but the title would remain vacated for the 2011-12 season.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:33 sbtnoie
1:36
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
On the MVP, I have gone with just about every starter at some point in the season except for PC. Maybe Brey is the MVP.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:36 Rob
1:37
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

Good call, but I doubt many would agree with you. Brey did do one heck of a job bringing this team back from oblivion when Tim Abromaitis went down.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:37 sbtnoie
1:37
[Comment From GuestGuest: ] 
What are odds of Martin and Abro 6th year at this point??
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:37 Guest
1:38
sbtnoie: 
Guest:

Martin's odds are solid, maybe better than 50-50. Abromaitis is a longshot, maybe 30-70 only because there is no concrete reason (injury, illness, family situation) why he sat out his sophomore season other than there weren't enough minutes to go around.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:38 sbtnoie
1:38
[Comment From TomTom: ] 
I have a questions that kind of plays off your state rankings. What are the most teams the state of Indiana placed into the NCAA tournament in the same season? In 1989 we had ND, IU, Purdue and Ball St. Would 4 teams be the record?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:38 Tom
1:39
sbtnoie: 
Tom:

Without having an NCAA tournament record book at my disposal, I'd say four would be highest - didn't Butler, Notre Dame, Purdue and Indiana State make it last season? Previous year?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:39 sbtnoie
1:43
sbtnoie: 
On the subject of awards for tonight's show, it would be nice to see Mike Broghammer recognized. Broghammer will not play next season because of the chronic tendinitis in his knees. He will remain with the team and is on track to graduate.

There were plenty of times when Broghammer had trouble running up and down the floor late in the year because of his knees. But because of the Irish low numbers - he was needed so the Irish could scrimmage 5-on-5 - Broghammer fought through the pain so the Irish could scrimmage.

No one ever knew how much his knees hurt, but Broghammer seldom complained and rarely declined to give it a go. Class guy. Team guy.

Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:43 sbtnoie
1:43
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
Who is more deserving to get their number retired next. John Paxson or David Rivers?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:43 Mike
1:46
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

One of the questions that has no right or wrong answers.

I'm going with David Rivers, who is sixth on the school's all-time scoring list and third in assists, fourth in steals and in games started. He was the can't-miss recruit who delivered. He also nearly died in Elkhart County in a car accident and returned to play at a high level.

That said, John Paxson also has a high, high, high place reserved in the Ring of Honor.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:46 sbtnoie
1:46
[Comment From Paul, South BendPaul, South Bend: ] 
Have you heard anything about Atkins physical conditioning? He can run all day but it seems to me he can't get to the rim hard and I've noticed his physique seems a little waifish. Do you agree he needs to add some muscle?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:46 Paul, South Bend
1:47
sbtnoie: 
Paul:

He could drive it a little more, though he did get to the foul line 136 times, which was third-best on the team. It's hard to hang that on him when he has shown a penchant for hitting a big outside shot at a big time (Louisville, South Florida).
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:47 sbtnoie
1:48
[Comment From Jim TalJim Tal: ] 
Tom, just for the sake of discussion and setting aside his accomplishments during the regular season, what letter grade would you give Coach Brey for his efforts in the Big East Tourney and the NCAAs during his entire tenure at ND. I don't see how anyone could give him anything more than a C- at best.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:48 Jim Tal
1:51
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

I don't think you can give him that high of a grade - incomplete is more like it because the success Notre Dame has had in the regular season has yet to translate.

It's going to have to the next two, three, four seasons. The NCAA tournament was almost a bonus the last three years - no one expected the Irish to make the late run two years ago or even this year. The 2010-11 season was record-setting in so many ways that many figured they could stomach an early tourney exit to a Florida State team that was just better regardless of the No. 10.

That all ends next year. This team has the makings of being able to springboard what it does in the regular season into the post-season. Question is, can they make that move?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:51 sbtnoie
1:51
[Comment From IrishWay96IrishWay96: ] 
Cooley definitely takes home the MVP hardware. Weren't we told he'd be lucky to get 25 mins a game before the season because of a health condition? Cooley was a man child during most games and brought that toughness that lifted everyone up. Martin and Abro are obviously the biggest recruits to be had right now. Besides Jackson, who are some targets Brey is after for the Class of 2013 as we head into the summer recruiting cycle?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:51 IrishWay96
1:52
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
Ring of Honor - Let's get Tommy Hawkins in there next... while he's still alive. Very deserving, one of ND's all-time greats.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:52 Kevin
1:53
sbtnoie: 
Kevin:

Agree. Hawkins' efforts often go overlooked when discussing the program's all-time greats. The guy's rebounding record (1,318) has stood since 1959. Think about that for a second. He set a record that has held up for over 50 years. Impressive.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:53 sbtnoie
1:56
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
any sign of a new practice facility in the next few years?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:56 Mike
1:57
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Define few......two or three? Probably not. Five or six? Maybe. When it's come to taking care of the basketball program at Notre Dame, slow and steady often has been the operating procedure. Hope that changes.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:57 sbtnoie
1:58
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
We did not seem to have the 3 point sharp shooters this year as in years past. Do you think we have them on this roster but that they just need another year of growth?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:58 Rob
2:01
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

You've got guys who can hit the 3 in Jerian Grant and Pat Connaughton and then Eric Atkins in given situations. But that's a tricky proposition - the same Irish fans who insist Notre Dame shoots too many 3s are the same ones who worry there aren't enough shooters.

The way this roster is shaping up, Notre Dame doesn't need a spot-up guy from 3. Kick it into Cooley or Sherman and if nothing's there, kick it out to Atkins or Grant to create or shoot or find Connaughton.

It's only a matter of time until Connaughton bottles his effort of seven 3s against Villanova. Watch.

That's what made Dragicevich's decision to leave a little dubious - you had a guy who was told to shoot it, shoot it, and keep shooting it by the coaching staff. He had the green light to look for his shot at every opportunity, and likely would have the same role next season.

Instead, he says, nah, I'd like to play more and maybe start. Uh, OK.......
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:01 sbtnoie
2:01
[Comment From Brian (chicago)Brian (chicago): ] 
Any HC interviews for any of Brey's assistants? Who do you believe will come out of nowhere to have an impact next year ala Cooley this year. Thanks Tom.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:01 Brian (chicago)
2:04
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

All three of Notre Dame's assistants (Rod Balanis, Martin Ingelsby, Anthony Solomon) have aspirations of becoming a head coach, but each will leave only for the "right" situation. They're not going to take a job just to take one.

Let's go with Garrick Sherman as next year's surprise. Transfers have a way of falling off the colelge basketbal radar when they switch schools (see Hansbrough, Ben) and Sherman could be in line to have a solid season.

I'd also go with Cameron Biedscheid, but he's coming to town with a whole bunch of expectations that he can be a really good player.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:04 sbtnoie
2:04
[Comment From JimJim: ] 
would nd be interested in sterling gibbs as a possible transfer from texas
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:04 Jim
2:06
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

Probably not. Sterling Gibbs left Texas one year and I read today from SNY's Adam Zagoria, who's as plugged in as anyone to the hoops scene in the NYC area, that Gibbs' reason for leaving Texas was that he missed home.

I'd expect Gibbs to stay closer to the East Coast and his New Jersey home than look hard at Notre Dame.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:06 sbtnoie
2:06
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
You seem to have confidence that Sherman will be ready to really contribute next year (is that right?). Have you heard anything about how he has progressed and fit in in practices this last year? Has he bulked up any?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:06 Rob
2:09
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

Sherman has bulked up. I don't know how many pounds he's put on, but he just looks bigger than when I saw him in summer, when he was rail-thin. He's had two years of college basketball experience which he can put to good use. He's crafty around the basket and he and Cooley could have a lot of fun tag-teaming around the basket.

Transfers know that when they switch schools it's their last chance to take their career to a place where they feared it might not go. Notre Dame has had a solid track record (minus one, see Latimore, Dennis) when it comes to transfers. They play a lot and do a lot when eligible at Notre Dame.

I'd expect the same of Sherman.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:09 sbtnoie
2:09
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
Coaches have to be hard-wired to do their best to ignore fan criticisms. That said, a recurring theme over the past few trips to the NCAAs has been some subpar performances (or losses to lower, but underseeded, teams). Have the coaches ever addressed this perception, or is it unfair and perhaps just a fluky streak that is more indicative of regular season excellence/overachievement?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:09 Mike
2:15
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Mike Brey is aware that fans want more - anything they want from the postseason he wants and he expects his teams to do.

What Notre Dame has done under Brey in the regular season, really for the last three years, is nothing short of incredible, and any coach in the Big East, let alone the country, will tell you that.

But at some point, it has to extend into the postseason. I've been able to rationalize the NCAA tournament losses, and will continue to do so when discussing Winthrop, Washington State, Old Dominion and Florida State. For that one day - remember, it's not a seven-game series - those teams were just better and deserved to move on.

If you don't understand that, you might be wound a little too tightly with expectations about Notre Dame basketball.

Regardless of how Notre Dame came from nowhere this season to earn a bid, you cannot say the same about Xavier. Up by 10 with under 12 minutes to play, you've got to continue to play loose and go for it.

Notre Dame didn't. That has to change.

Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:15 sbtnoie
2:17
[Comment From IrishWay96IrishWay96: ] 
Cooley definitely takes home the MVP hardware. Weren't we told he'd be lucky to get 25 mins a game before the season because of a health condition? Cooley was a man child during most games and brought that toughness that lifted everyone up. Martin and Abro are obviously the biggest recruits to be had right now. Besides Jackson, who are some targets Brey is after for the Class of 2013 as we head into the summer recruiting cycle?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:17 IrishWay96
2:20
sbtnoie: 
Irish:

Now to part II of your question.

The number of prospects Notre Dame is involved with in the current junior class is minimal - other than Demetrius Jackson (Mishawaka), the Irish likely are in a wait-and-see mode until the sixth-year situation is cleared up.

Remember, Notre Dame already has commitments from two prep juniors - V.J. Beachem (Fort Wayne) and Steve Vasturia (Philadelphia).

Other than adding a big, or possible college transfer, there aren't many needs to address if the Irish add Jackson.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:20 sbtnoie
2:20
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
Do you thik Brey will emphasize more defense? The roster just seems to give him those horses, moreso than in years past. We did well last year but that seemed to be in part a product of the burn. Next year we will be more up tempo. Can we continue with our improved defensive perfromance?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:20 Rob
2:22
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

More defense? Really? Irish opponents averaged only 61.4 ppg and shot 31.4 percent from 3. That's pretty good.

Notre Dame will be more athletic next year, but that shouldn't take away from what it can do defensively, especially with the additions of Biedscheid, Sherman and possibly Katenda.

This team will be able to score it better, but also be able to continue to get the necessary stops at key times.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:22 sbtnoie
2:22
[Comment From NDHoopsRecruitsNDHoopsRecruits: ] 
Nice job as always. Last season the NCAA implemented the foul/charge arc. Any new things we'll see this season?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:22 NDHoopsRecruits
2:24
sbtnoie: 
ND:

Only one major one - they've talked about widening the lane, not to the trapezoid shape of international play but just a bigger rectangle. That's been discussed as something to use in the early-season tournaments, but not in the regular season. Probably more than a year away from that.

Mike Brey was one of the strongest proponents for the block-charge arc, but he rotates off the rules committee this offseason.


Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:24 sbtnoie
2:24
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
Hopefully, a change where they call lane violations consistently for all 40 minutes
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:24 Mike
2:27
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

This one's going to be a sore spot for Notre Dame fans for a while. But if you're Jerian Grant and your buddy is on the foul line with two shots to tie the game late in regulation, you're nowhere near sailing in for your Michael Jordan moment.

You really should be back near halfcourt telling everyone, my man EA is knocking these in and we're going to win in overtime.

But that didn't happen - so let's move on. Mike Stuart's lane violation call certainly didn't wipe out the double-digit lead in the second half, or cause Atkins to air-mail his pass to Pat Connaughton into the seats.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:27 sbtnoie
2:28
sbtnoie: 
A quick note on Cameron Biedscheid - he's ranked No. 28 in Rivals' final Top 150. Means nothing but still intrigued to see what skill set he can offer in the fall.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:28 sbtnoie
2:31
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
The block/charge arc is too small. It's close enough to the basket that a guy standing underneath it doesn't have to move much to become legal. Worse, many refs use the arc as a crutch, calling charges if the defender's feet are outside the arc even if he's still moving. That would be more obvious if the arc were the same as or closer to the NBA's.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:31 Kevin
2:31
sbtnoie: 
Kevin:

NCAA chief of officials John Adams would like a word with you on Line One.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:31 sbtnoie
2:33
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
who is the last recruit ND got that ranked that high? Chris Thomas? Luke Zeller?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:33 Mike
2:34
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Luke Zeller was Top 20 if memory serves me correct. Again, they mean nothing, especially when you get past the Top 10.....what is the criteria for determining No. 11 is better than 13 or 16 better than 22?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:34 sbtnoie
2:34
[Comment From Jim TalJim Tal: ] 
Tom, as an observer from the outside, it just seems to me that whenever the Irish stumble in the Big Dance, it doesn't pain and sting Brey as much as it should. In my opinion, he should be gut-shot but he seems all too ready to move on instead of really feeling the hurt of a disappointing loss. Since you're in the know, how much frustration does Brey actually experience when the Irish falter so badly? Do these type of painful losses disturb him like I feel they should? He just seems to easily inclined to brush them off like it's not that big of a deal.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:34 Jim Tal
2:40
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

I've been around Mike Brey and his staff for every NCAA tournament loss and trust me, they hurt. And it hurts deep. He's just better than maybe any other college coach in masking it.

He'll tell a joke, keep the mood loose, and talk of moving on because, well, what can you do but move on? Inside, though, those losses sting more than anyone else knows. He still thinks about Washington State and Old Dominion and if pumped with truth serum tonight likely will admit he'll think about Xavier for most if not all the summer given that a Sweet 16 trip was there for the taking.

Mike Brey can find all the right words in front of the tape recorders and television cameras, but when the media spotlight fades, those losses cut him deep. He just knows it's counter-productive to dwell on it publicly. He dwells on the Old Dominion loss publicly, maybe the 2010-11 team doesn't go 27-7.

Brey won't ever admit it, but he knows he's ultimately going to be judged by what this program does in the NCAA tournament the next three or four years.

It's never been OK just to get there. Ever.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:40 sbtnoie
2:40
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
I'm guessing that Mr. Adams will have heard more words than he cares to have heard after about two minutes.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:40 Kevin
2:42
sbtnoie: 
Kevin:

Funny, but he probably got an earful from Mike Brey. The day after Notre Dame returned home from Greensboro, Brey flew to Atlanta to be a part of the NCAA tournament studio show. And John Adams was there at the same time.

I guarantee that when the TV cameras went off, Brey and Adams huddled in the green room and and Brey started in with...."John, what is the #$@%%&$*(# world is Mike Stuart thinking in making a call like that at that time? Are you #$$%$@@ serious??"

Guaranteed.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:42 sbtnoie
2:47
sbtnoie: 
Time's running out to submit your vote for team MVP this season........
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:47 sbtnoie
2:49
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
I think we will have 5 players average double digits next year offensively. I think we have that much offensive talent but not one guy who seems to need to score 20 points a game. Do you think we will have that good of ball distribution next year to do that?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:49 Rob
2:50
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

Having five guys average double figures is a realistic expectation. Having this same core group together for another year will make the ball movement even better. The passing will be crisper with a lot less indecision from Atkins and Grant.

I'll sign up for five averaging double figures.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:50 sbtnoie
2:51
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
How has Mike Brey changed in his tenure at ND? It's been quite a while now. He's had chances to learn (Dennis Lattimore!), and has adapted his style of play to fit his personnel (sometimes mid-season!). I appreciate the latter observation above because it seems rare in coaches that are successful enough to get to that level. Curious to hear your observations.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:51 Mike
2:54
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Way too much to digest and too little time to do it here.

Mike Brey has learned what it takes to win at a place like Notre Dame, which is different from any school in the Big East in terms of expectations academically and athletically. He's learned what it takes to win the league and the success you have to have in the league to get to the NCAA tournament.

I don't know how much he's really changed. He understands the basketball program's place in the big scheme of everything on campus. He didn't arrive believing he'd be the big man on campus and that one day hoops would matter more than football.

He's a teacher first, and that's important within the fabric of the university. He didn't go to South Bend looking for the next big job opportunity or pay day, and that's not something a lot of coaches can say.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:54 sbtnoie
2:55
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
That lane violation ought to be a warning on a made free throw similar to delay of game. Obviously, it has to be called if an advantages is gained trying to rebound a missed free throw, but there is no impact on a made shot. If, after a warning, it happens again, the ref would be well within his rights to call the violation on a made free throw regardless of the game situation.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:55 Kevin
2:56
sbtnoie: 
Kevin:

True, but I'd also bet that if a lane violation wasn't called the previous day in the Syracuse second-round game it wouldn't have been called in the closing seconds of the Notre Dame game.

It was almost as if officials were reminded when it happened in the Syracuse game - hey, remember guys, we've got to watch for that. It's happening all the time. Then it happens again, and we all know how that turned out.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:56 sbtnoie
3:02
sbtnoie: 
Solid effort from all involved today. Never thought this one would have run over three hours - in April. Nice to see so much interest. Now stop back next week.

If you have a question or comment that cannot wait, drop me a note at tnoie@schurz.com" target="_blank" >tnoie@schurz.com.

My vote for team MVP? Jack Cooley, and it's not that close. Mike Brey believed Notre Dame would be lucky to get 25 minutes a game from him this season.

Cooley averaged 28.7 minutes a game. He also averaged 12.5 points and 8.9 rebounds. He shot a Big East-best 62.5 percent from the field and 67.6 percent from the foul line (that's gotta be better, big man). He grabbed 295 total rebounds - 107 more than the next Irish.

Cooley also had a team-high 130 offensive rebounds. The next closest Irish was Pat Connaughton with 33.

Cooley led the Irish with 13 double-doubles for points and rebounds - 12 of those came in the Big East. No one saw this type of production coming. N-O-B-O-D-Y. Everyone figured Jerian Grant was talented to make a big splash, but Cooley shifted all the water out of the pool with his effort.



Wednesday April 11, 2012 3:02 sbtnoie
3:03
 

 
 
 



Tom Noie answered readers' Notre Dame basketball questions in a live chat. Read the transcript.


Tom Noie is answering readers' Notre Dame basketball questions in a live chat. Join him.

 Live Chat: Talk Notre Dame basketball with Tom Noie(04/11/2012) 
11:56
sbtnoie: 
Greetings. One last item on the agenda remains before the book officially closes on the 2011-12 Notre Dame men's basketball season. Tonight is the annual Notre Dame basketball banquet - sort of.

The format has been changed (and not a moment too soon). Instead of a sit-down, drawn-out dinner where the outgoing seniors seemingly recite the same speech thanking the same support staff, tonight's get-together is far more fan-friendly and, hopefully, far less stuffy.

The usual banquets have run nearly three hours.....tonight's may be over by 8:30 which would be a school record.

It's called the Notre Dame men's basketball awards show, complete with guided tours of the Irish basketball facilities. Sure would be nice to show off a new hoops-only practice facility, but that's a story for another day.

Even though it's the offseason, plenty of questions remain for the Irish. When will the NCAA rule on the potential sixth seasons for Tim Abromaitis and Scott Martin? Where might transfer Alex Dragicevich land? How's Eric Katenda progressing and can he eventually help?

Have a question or comment, be sure to include your name and hometown. Spring football? Baseball season? Ha! Around here it's all hoops all the time - back after a week of vacation.......who's ready?

Let's go.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 11:56 sbtnoie
11:59
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Tom, any idea when the Abro and Martin questions will be answered? Seems odd that guys like Mbawkwe have already had rulings and we're still waiting
Wednesday April 11, 2012 11:59 Mike C.
12:03
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Good to hear from you. When it comes to waiting on a ruling from the NCAA.....it's anyone's guess. It could be in the next hour, the next day, the next week or the next month.

I don't know what the timetable was with Trevor Mbakwe at Minnesota but Scott Martin filed his initial request for a sixth season in December.....and Tim Abromaitis was about six, seven weeks behind him in getting all the necessary paperwork in.

That may not matter in the timetable of hearing a decision, but the feeling around the program has remained the same - they feel good about Martin's chances given his family situation (his father underwent treatment for eye cancer during Martin's sit-out season at Notre Dame).

Abromaitis is a long-shot, but if' you're looking at someone who personifies what "student-athlete" is all about, it's Abromaitis, so why not reward him for maxing out his college experience?

Still, it wouldn't surprise me if something was announced regarding Martin is announced at tonight's awards show. Stay tuned to the SBT.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:03 sbtnoie
12:03
[Comment From Jon (South Bend)Jon (South Bend): ] 
I wouldn't mind answers to your first two questions.. When will the NCAA rule and where might Drago head?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:03 Jon (South Bend)
12:05
sbtnoie: 
Jon:

Don't know and don't know....how's that for hard-hitting answers? Still too early to tell with both.

If Alex Dragicevich attends tonight's awards show, I'll see if he has any more concrete plans on where he might transfer. It was still too early in the process when news of his exit arrived two weeks ago.

But I'd be shocked if he goes to a power-six conference. If the guy sticks to his reasons about leaving - he wants to start and play major minutes - it's best for him to land somewhere in the Horizon League, the Mid-American Conference or Missouri Valley.

Northwestern would seem logical since he's a suburban Chicago kid, but I don't know if he can take the chance of picking a school where he might be a main player for one year, then a bit player the next. If that's the case, he should have stayed at Notre Dame.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:05 sbtnoie
12:05
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
You've mentioned before that a practice facility isn't going to happen overnight. Any sense from the higher-ups that it's at least a priority (which would be an improvement over the previous regime, at least)?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:05 Mike C.
12:08
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Everyone over at Notre Dame talks about how a stand-alone practice facility is a "priority" but that's also what they said about the arena. We've been down this road before - yes, they want to get something done, but you know what becoems the main issue - money.

Notre Dame could go out tomorrow and break ground on a state-of-the-art facility and have more than enough money to pay for everything involved. But nearly all the funds for a building need to be in hand before the shovel goes into the dirt.

What are we talking? If you're going to do it right, it could run $20-30 million, which is about how much the arena renovation cost.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:08 sbtnoie
12:08
[Comment From Gary DGary D: ] 
I can't understand the empty seats at the games, the student section should be rocking all the time like it was for Syr. I know that winter break feeds into it, but with the fantastic showing of the team, the games should always be sold out.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:08 Gary D
12:10
sbtnoie: 
Gary:

I've beat that dead horse for years - time for me to move on. I get the same old tired excuses - quality of competition, cost of tickets, too many academic commitments, blah, blah, blah.

A team that has gone 31-9 since floundering along at 6-8 when Luke Harangody went down with his injury two-plus years ago deserves far better support than it receives.

It's sad that Notre Dame seemingly gets more respect outside of South Bend than inside.

Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:10 sbtnoie
12:10
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
Tom, we do not read a lot about Burgett. Where does he fit into the rotation long term? Is he a power forward or a small forward and what skill sets does he bring to the table?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:10 Rob
12:13
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

Who knows how any f the three incoming freshmen - Zach Auguste, Cameron Biedscheid and Austin Burgett - fit into the plans? I don't think the coaches know, and likely won't be able to move forward, until figuring out if Abromaitis and Martin are going to return.

I'll have a better idea of each once they get up here for summer school and run pickup games during basketball camp week. It's hard to draw any concrete conclusions, but at least you get to see how they play and interact with the returning guys.

Burgett is 6-8, 6-9 guy who reminds many of a combination of a young Tim Abromaitis or Rob Kurz. With the possible logjam up front of Martin, maybe, Abromaitis, maybe, Jack Cooley, Garrick Sherman and Tom Knight, minutes might be scarce to secure early, but that's OK.

He's going to be a good one.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:13 sbtnoie
12:13
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
I think the best chance for more butts in the seats is a stronger NC schedule. Any chance we'll see quality NC games at Purcell instead of at neutral sites?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:13 Mike C.
12:15
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Nope. The reason? There's so much power within the Big East schedule. That's hard to argue, given that the league schedule basically helped Notre Dame earn an NCAA tournament bid this season.

When people start talking about a better non-league game at home, I always go back to the Gonzaga game of 2010 - the Bulldogs were in the Top 25. Notre Dame had one loss and on the cusp of taking off to a 27-7 season. It was a Saturday night in early December - and the place still didn't sell out.

If that can't get people out, nothing will.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:15 sbtnoie
12:18
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Any thoughts on potential redshirts next year? With Abro/Martin possibly being available and the seeming logjam at the 3 position, could someone sit? I would have thought Drago was a candidate, but....
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:18 Mike C.
12:20
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Again, too early to tell until the sixth-year situations are determined. This will be the deepest, most talented team that Mike Brey may have ever had at Notre Dame. But don't expect him to suddenly play nine, 10, 11 guys heavy minutes. He is who he is - a coach comfortable with a limited rotation.

The core guys will continue to get the majority of the minutes, but there will be better depth at the back end of the rotation that will help balance out playing guys too many minutes.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:20 sbtnoie
12:21
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Jackson seems to be taking his time on his decision. With PG being so critical, what are the chances we'd see a new face transfer in?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:21 Mike C.
12:23
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

If the right situation presents itself (and it hasn't yet), Mike Brey has proven he's not adverse to adding a transfer.

Brey and his staff have made it crystal clear to Jackson how much they want him to be part of the program. If they feel they can be better with someone else, while still waiting for Jackson to make a decision, that might be a tough call they'll have to make.

Notre Dame can't sit still waiting for someone to make a decision. That's not fair to the progress of the program.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:23 sbtnoie
12:23
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
How does the roster look to you for next year in regards to being a dynamic rebounding team. It looks really good to me. Am I looking at it with rose colored glasses. I keep thinking we have the best roster that we have had in the last decade in that regard.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:23 Rob
12:26
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

This team will be able to rebound with anyone in the league next season with jack Cooley returning, with Scott Martin possibly returning and with Garrick Sherman becoming eligible.

Don't forget about the possibility of Eric Katenda offering something. Tom Knight will have to get better - quickly - otherwise he might scramble for minutes. He was pretty solid down the stretch. Another year for Jerian Grant will help him understand that he can get in there, get up and get a rebound, then get out on the break.

If the freshmen - Auguste, Biedscheid and Burgett - are strong enough to hold their own, there are many options. That means many more chances to do something this team struggled to do at times this season - get out in transition and run their way into some easy buckets.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:26 sbtnoie
12:27
[Comment From Old GoldOld Gold: ] 
How is Katenda progressing?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:27 Old Gold
12:29
sbtnoie: 
Old Gold:

I'll find out more tonight when Mike Brey meets the media following the awards show. Brey liked his simple skill set late in the year, but Katenda likely has yet to cut it loose in 5-on-5 scrimmage situations, and may not until fall. That's when the coaches will get a better idea how and maybe if he can help.

Just watching him shoot around before workouts late in the year, Katenda has some skills. But what happens once the game quickens and he has to battle for a loose ball in the lane? Is he timid??Can he properly see and catch and entry pass? Those are questions that likely still do not have any answers.

It's going to be a process with him and because of the depth of the roster, it can be a slow one.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:29 sbtnoie
12:30
[Comment From Gary DGary D: ] 
I really like what I hear about the new format tonight. My 2 young Grandsons were very excited to hear about the changes, the tours,etc. will keep their attention much more than speechs. Also, why are the ads on line here in Spanish?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:30 Gary D
12:31
sbtnoie: 
Gary:

Tonight's format will be very fan-friendly. You can can see the behind-the-scenes places like the locker room, the player lounge, the Pit - that you normally don't get to see. If you're a fan, it's a great way to get up close and personal with some of the guys.

Ads here in Spanish? Hmm....that's a new one. I can't answer that one.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:31 sbtnoie
12:32
[Comment From NJ IrishNJ Irish: ] 
Any chance with the higher caliber of talent arriving next season and the possible return of Martin/Ambro that Brey will go deeper into his bench and not begin post season with exhausted guards?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:32 NJ Irish
12:34
sbtnoie: 
Jersey:

We talked about depth a few questions ago, but Notre Dame is far from the only team in the country with exhausted guys. Every team is tired to a degree in the postseason.

Xavier's guards - Tu Holloway and Mark Lyons - played nearly the same amount of minutes this season as Notre Dame guards Eric Atkins and Jerian Grant. Difference was that when the game was there for the taking in the NCAA tournament, Holloway and Lyons simply were better.

That may not be the case next year.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:34 sbtnoie
12:34
[Comment From JakeJake: ] 
What is the timeframe for the Big East announcing the conference schedule and what are the definites on the NC schedule for '12-'13 season?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:34 Jake
12:38
sbtnoie: 
Jake:

The Big East will piece-mail the men's basketball schedules in the coming weeks. Usually the repeat opponents are announced in May, then the home and away onlys. The entire schedule usually is not finalized until late August. There have been times when the schedule has not been released until after Labor Day.

The definite non-league games for 2012-13 are two games at the Coaches vs. Cancer tournament at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y., with Brigham Young, Florida State and St. Joseph's (Pa.). That's the same weekend as the home football game against Wake Forest.

Notre Dame also will play George Washington at home and Purdue in Indianapolis to close out the initial two-year Crossroads Classic. That's it in terms of "marquee" non-league games.The rest will be the "buy" games where Notre Dame plays a Delaware State or Maine or Dartmouth - those types of schools.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:38 sbtnoie
12:39
sbtnoie: 
Question of the Day time - Who do you think should earn Most Valuable Player honors tonight from this team? Why?

I'll offer my thoughts at the end of the chat.......fire away.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:39 sbtnoie
12:39
[Comment From Josh H.Josh H.: ] 
Has Coach Breys recruiting focus changed now that the landscape of the Big East has canged. Will he recruit more Indiana/midwestern kids?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:39 Josh H.
12:42
sbtnoie: 
Josh:

Not really.

Notre Dame continues to center its recruiting efforts on the Midwest - Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio and along the East Coast's I-95 corridor from New England to D.C. There are exceptions - Notre Dame went to St. Louis to sign Cameron Biedscheid because, a) he was really good and b) he had a high interest in the program.

Notre Dame has to do it differently than any other school in the Big East when it comes to finding the right "fit" in terms of academics and athletics. Wherever those "fits" are from, Notre Dame will recruit them. It's more important to find that fit than for Mike Brey to say, we've got to get an Indiana kid or a local kid or a New York kid.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:42 sbtnoie
12:42
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Any chance if fans see what the Pit actually looks like, they'll see better the need for a practice facility?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:42 Mike C.
12:44
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Absolutely fans will be able to see The Pit, which has undergone some serious upgrades in the last dozen years or so. There was a time during the John MacLeod years where pole vault cushion mats would be stacked in one corner and the boxing team would be training behind one curtain during hoops practice. It's come a long way since, but the team really needs something more. Something better. Something modern.

Something that tells everyone that the school is serious about hoops.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:44 sbtnoie
12:44
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Speaking of schedule, what's the current timeline for Big East departures and arrivals? I believe WVU is gone now. Will we see Pitt and Syracuse next year or any of the planned new teams?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:44 Mike C.
12:47
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

West Virginia is now a member of the Big 12. Pittsburgh and Syracuse technically have two years remaining in the Big East, but the league has said it is willing to negotiate this summer an agreement that the 2012-13 season will be the last for each in the Big East.

That likely means one final trip to the Carrier Dome and Petersen Events Center for Notre Dame next season. The incoming schools - Temple, Memphis, etc. - start arriving for the 2013-14 season.

Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:47 sbtnoie
12:47
[Comment From Ted S.Ted S.: ] 
Big East play... So 40 and 38 minutes (Atkins and Grant) are now the same as 36 and 32 minutes (Holloway and Lyons)? To quote GW, that's some fuzzy math.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:47 Ted S.
12:48
sbtnoie: 
Ted:

All played heavy minutes, right? Would you have rather had Joey Brooks and Alex Dragicevich on the floor for those 4 and 6 minute differences or Atkins and Grant?

Thought so.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:48 sbtnoie
12:48
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
I'd give it to Scott Martin. As his play improved, the cohesiveness and quality of the team's play did likewise
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:48 Mike C.
12:49
[Comment From NJ IrishNJ Irish: ] 
Re: MVP, it has to be Cooley. Not only for his improvement and stepping up with the departure of last years post players but without his presence on the blocks ND is maybe a .500 team.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:49 NJ Irish
12:49
[Comment From JakeJake: ] 
Have to go with Jack Cooley for MVP. The team went only as far as he could take them.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:49 Jake
12:49
[Comment From TJ from VTTJ from VT: ] 
Tom, thank you for the coverage over the past year....I thought it was excellent...in-depth and an honest assessment....my question(s)...since there is no answer on Abro and Martin, do they still practice with the team? The other question: Is the team practicing now or is this really the off-season....or rather, what is the team doing now and into the summer? Thank you.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:49 TJ from VT
12:51
sbtnoie: 
TJ:

Thanks for the kind words. College teams can workout in groups of four for two hours each week in the offseason. They guys will get together for pickup. Abromaitis and Martin remain a part of the program until the NCAA rules otherwise.

That's usually not the case - seniors who plan on making a run at pro basketball are busy in that arena but both want to come back and won't move on until the NCAA makes its ruling.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:51 sbtnoie
12:51
[Comment From Joe - NW South BendJoe - NW South Bend: ] 
Getting a commitment from Demtrius Jackson would be the biggest recruiting catch since????
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:51 Joe - NW South Bend
12:54
sbtnoie: 
Joe:

Trick question. It's hard to say that Demetrius Jackson will be a bigger get than Chris Thomas, who was Indiana Mr. Basketball and a McDonald's All-American.

From a public relations standpoint, it can be argued that it would be the biggest get in program history - a local kid who will make a run at Mr. Basketball staying home to play college basketball?

That's a story that would be tough to beat anywhere.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:54 sbtnoie
12:54
[Comment From Gary DGary D: ] 
Being a "Longtime" season ticket holder for both football and basketball, I looked at football as a way of life, basketball as a way to make the winter shorter. No longer, very excited about seeing this years basketball team. Just hope others feel the same way. Jack Cooley as MVP. His hustle and energy brought out the best in his teammates. With a special award to Abro, what the term student-athlete is all about
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:54 Gary D
12:54
[Comment From JimJim: ] 
Any chance (realistic) ever of scheduling a MWC team like New Mexico?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:54 Jim
12:59
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

No chance. Why? Nothing against New Mexico, but throw any Mountain West team in there and they would want a home-and-home at the very least. And that's where the problem arrives.

When do you schedule the return trip? Mike Brey wants early November games at home to see what he has, mid- to late-November games for an early-season tournament trip (New York, Maui, etc.) and December games at home to limit travel and prepare for the Big East, which starts in late December.

Brey vowed in 2009 that he would never, ever, ever schedule a non-league game in the middle of the league schedule like some teams do. That's when Notre Dame, in the midst of a six-game league losing streak, headed west and was waxed by 26 by UCLA.

Even before the bus left that day for LAX, Brey said never again will Notre Dame step out of the Big East to play a marquee non-league game.

Doesn't mean I agree. I would love to cover a game at the real Pit in Albuquerque. It's just not going to happen.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:59 sbtnoie
12:59
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
MVP. Cooley or Atkins. I go with Atkins since he played the most minutes. There had to be a reason for that. Plus, I am guard biased in college basketball.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:59 Rob
12:59
[Comment From TJ from VTTJ from VT: ] 
Have they figured out how the Big East tournament would be played next year with UConn on probation & WVU out of the conference?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 12:59 TJ from VT
1:01
sbtnoie: 
TJ:

Nope. Probably going to be one of the issues discussed at the league meetings next month. Shouldn't take too long to come up with a Plan B, or in this league's case, Plan X, Y, Z. The league tournament has changed so many times during my time on the beat that by the time you get used to it, everything again goes up for grabs.

I do know that there is talk that when the league expands to 20 hoops schools they will play as many as five games in a day at MSG. They now play four at 12 p.m., 2, 7 and 9.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:01 sbtnoie
1:02
[Comment From Kurt in NYCKurt in NYC: ] 
WRT to your MVP question, I'm going with Scott Martin. While Cooley & Grant had better overall stats, Martin did so much over the course of the year to get the team playing at the highest level they could through defense, on court coaching & leadership & overall effort - and accomplished all of that against the backdrop of losing Abro & being in a terrible offensive slump for the first 2 months of the season.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:02 Kurt in NYC
1:05
sbtnoie: 
On the subject of awards, how about Top Playmaker? Atkins or Grant? Atkins was the glue that kept it all together but Grant led the team in assists?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:05 sbtnoie
1:05
[Comment From Ted STed S: ] 
Yes, I would have liked to see Pat, Alex and Tom get some of those minutes. Yes, a few minutes rest would have greatly benefited Atkins and Grant during the long season. But let's not get off track. You made a statement that wasn't close to being true, and supplied it as evidence to support your reasoning.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:05 Ted S
1:09
sbtnoie: 
Ted:

Did we sidestep over to a court of law? Man, relax counselor. The bottom line is that when Xavier's guards needed to be good - and go and win the game - they did. Notre Dame's didn't.

Atkins and Grant were really good all year playing major minutes. They weren't when the season was on the line. Grant hit one of the season's biggest shots - a 3 - with 60 seconds remaining. Did his legs suddenly go dead afterward?

And sit Atkins and Grant for Connaughton, Dragicevich and Knight? Seriously?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:09 sbtnoie
1:09
[Comment From Mike C.Mike C.: ] 
Atkins. Too many times Grant would make a move and get up in the air and realize he didn't know what to do with the ball
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:09 Mike C.
1:13
[Comment From WillyWilly: ] 
If Martin is granted a 6th year , what do you think about the Irish going with a big starting 5 next year of Atkins, Grant, Martin, Cooley and Sherman?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:13 Willy
1:15
sbtnoie: 
Willy:

That may work - eventually. If Martin is granted his sixth year, it's likely Notre Dame heads into the start of the season with the same starting five it ended with - Atkins, Grant, Connaughton, Martin and Cooley.

Sherman's going to be in the mix for major minutes (maybe as many as Holloway and Lyons, Ted). He may start a few games, and we'll have to see how Cameron Biedscheid fits - if he's really good, maybe he starts.

There are many options.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:15 sbtnoie
1:15
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
Cooley, and I don't think it's close... 13th in the Big East in scoring, 2nd in rebounding, 1st in offensive rebounding, 1st in field goal percentage, 4th in blocks. Also, he had no bad stats and even had a very nice 2.6 assist/turnover ratio. Others were very good, but Cooley's conference season was stellar.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:15 Kevin
1:16
sbtnoie: 
For MVP, right?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:16 sbtnoie
1:16
[Comment From NJ IrishNJ Irish: ] 
Not knowing anything about what kind of player he is, I'm pretty excited about Biedscheid. ESPN top 100 caliber talent is rare in South Bend. Can you tell me more about him? I’m hoping he’s the athletic, slasher, easy points type a talent the Irish need. Watching ND burn and labor for hoops vs., say Louisville effortlessly manufacturing points is an indicator of the talent gap.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:16 NJ Irish
1:18
sbtnoie: 
NJ:

Safe to say that with Biedscheid coming aboard, Sherman becoming eligible, a returning core and a possible bench boost, the burn gets stuffed in moth balls.

Biedscheid, at least on paper, gives Notre Dame something it didn't have this season - someone who can get to the basket and get a basket. At worst, he can get fouled and get to the foul line. The Irish struggled in that area this season.

Biedscheid has a chance to be special, but you have to see how he fits in at the college level - is he strong enough to take the pounding? Confident enough in his game? Going from prep standout to the Big East is a tough adjustment.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:18 sbtnoie
1:19
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
Another Biedscheid question... How is his surname pronounced?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:19 Kevin
1:19
sbtnoie: 
BEED-Shyed
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:19 sbtnoie
1:19
[Comment From AaronAaron: ] 
I have given up on Demtruis Jackson signing with ND, and have turned my attention to Kyle Washington. Where are we at with Mr. Washington?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:19 Aaron
1:20
sbtnoie: 
Aaron:

Probably the same place Notre Dame is at with Jackson, and Abromaitis and Martin. Waiting for the NCAA to rule so the staff can go ahead with offseason roster management.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:20 sbtnoie
1:22
[Comment From RogerRoger: ] 
Do you see a future Notre Dame / Duke match up? I think the Dukies in town would get the JACC rockin!!!
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:22 Roger
1:24
sbtnoie: 
Roger:

I'd sign up for it in a second, but unless Notre Dame decides to join the Atlantic Coast Conference, it isn't going to happen. Mike Brey not all interested in the whole teacher vs. pupil angle with Mike Krrzyzewski around.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:24 sbtnoie
1:24
[Comment From RobertRobert: ] 
Does Harvey Grant ever attend ND home games?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:24 Robert
1:26
sbtnoie: 
Robert:

Former NBA power forward Harvey Grant is the father of Irish sophomore guard Jerian Grant. Harvey was at a handful of home games this year, but not many. I talked with him during the two games at Verizon Center - Maryland and Georgetown - where he stood in the same spot (the runway that leads to the locker room) both times. I also saw him at the Seton Hall game at Prudential Center.

A solid nice guy but someone I get the impression likes to remain in the shadows when it comes to tracking Jerian's progress.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:26 sbtnoie
1:27
[Comment From SmittySmitty: ] 
I think college basketball in Indiana next year will be fantastic. Please give us your top 7 ranking between , ND, IU, Purdue, Butler, Ball St. Valpo, Indiana State
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:27 Smitty
1:30
sbtnoie: 
Smitty:

Great question.

Don't hold me to these - I finished last in our Tribune NCAA pool because I put exactly zero thought into the picks (little too busy with the Irish duties to become the resident Bracketologist). Here you go:

1. Indiana (Think a national No. 1 spot a bit of a reach).
2. Notre Dame (closer to No. 1 in the state than many may think if Abromaitis and Martin return).
3. Valparaiso (Bryce Drew a hot up-and-comer in the business).
4. Butler (Expect a bounce-back year)
5. Purdue (Robbie Hummel was the heart and soul of that program).
6. Ball State (Billy Taylor as solid a guy as there is in this racket).
7. Indiana State (That Bird guy still have any eligibility left?)
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:30 sbtnoie
1:31
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
Moving in on Tom's turf with an answer to a question... I was walking out of the JACC after a game and recognized a man standing in the tunnel with his wife, but I couldn't place him. I said hello thinking he'll engage me If we've met before, but he simply smiled and returned the hello. Once outside, I realized how I knew the face... It was the same face I'd seen for years watching the Bulls - Harvey's identical twin brother Horace.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:31 Kevin
1:31
sbtnoie: 
Solid family all around.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:31 sbtnoie
1:31
[Comment From Paul, South BendPaul, South Bend: ] 
Can't really argue with Cooley for MVP, but just to be contrary, I'll go with Grant. He was really the only guy on the team that could go get his own shot at any time, and without him they could have been awfully easy to guard, which would have dramatically affected Cooley's production.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:31 Paul, South Bend
1:32
sbtnoie: 
Hard to argue there.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:32 sbtnoie
1:32
[Comment From GuestGuest: ] 
good morning i just jumped on. sorry if you have answered this already but is there any chance tha tbaylor would have to forfeit their win in the girls game making nd national champs? thanks jack syracuse ny
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:32 Guest
1:33
sbtnoie: 
Jack:

Wrong board, but that's OK. There's always a chance Baylor would have to vacate its women's NCAA championship, but the title would remain vacated for the 2011-12 season.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:33 sbtnoie
1:36
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
On the MVP, I have gone with just about every starter at some point in the season except for PC. Maybe Brey is the MVP.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:36 Rob
1:37
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

Good call, but I doubt many would agree with you. Brey did do one heck of a job bringing this team back from oblivion when Tim Abromaitis went down.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:37 sbtnoie
1:37
[Comment From GuestGuest: ] 
What are odds of Martin and Abro 6th year at this point??
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:37 Guest
1:38
sbtnoie: 
Guest:

Martin's odds are solid, maybe better than 50-50. Abromaitis is a longshot, maybe 30-70 only because there is no concrete reason (injury, illness, family situation) why he sat out his sophomore season other than there weren't enough minutes to go around.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:38 sbtnoie
1:38
[Comment From TomTom: ] 
I have a questions that kind of plays off your state rankings. What are the most teams the state of Indiana placed into the NCAA tournament in the same season? In 1989 we had ND, IU, Purdue and Ball St. Would 4 teams be the record?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:38 Tom
1:39
sbtnoie: 
Tom:

Without having an NCAA tournament record book at my disposal, I'd say four would be highest - didn't Butler, Notre Dame, Purdue and Indiana State make it last season? Previous year?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:39 sbtnoie
1:43
sbtnoie: 
On the subject of awards for tonight's show, it would be nice to see Mike Broghammer recognized. Broghammer will not play next season because of the chronic tendinitis in his knees. He will remain with the team and is on track to graduate.

There were plenty of times when Broghammer had trouble running up and down the floor late in the year because of his knees. But because of the Irish low numbers - he was needed so the Irish could scrimmage 5-on-5 - Broghammer fought through the pain so the Irish could scrimmage.

No one ever knew how much his knees hurt, but Broghammer seldom complained and rarely declined to give it a go. Class guy. Team guy.

Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:43 sbtnoie
1:43
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
Who is more deserving to get their number retired next. John Paxson or David Rivers?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:43 Mike
1:46
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

One of the questions that has no right or wrong answers.

I'm going with David Rivers, who is sixth on the school's all-time scoring list and third in assists, fourth in steals and in games started. He was the can't-miss recruit who delivered. He also nearly died in Elkhart County in a car accident and returned to play at a high level.

That said, John Paxson also has a high, high, high place reserved in the Ring of Honor.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:46 sbtnoie
1:46
[Comment From Paul, South BendPaul, South Bend: ] 
Have you heard anything about Atkins physical conditioning? He can run all day but it seems to me he can't get to the rim hard and I've noticed his physique seems a little waifish. Do you agree he needs to add some muscle?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:46 Paul, South Bend
1:47
sbtnoie: 
Paul:

He could drive it a little more, though he did get to the foul line 136 times, which was third-best on the team. It's hard to hang that on him when he has shown a penchant for hitting a big outside shot at a big time (Louisville, South Florida).
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:47 sbtnoie
1:48
[Comment From Jim TalJim Tal: ] 
Tom, just for the sake of discussion and setting aside his accomplishments during the regular season, what letter grade would you give Coach Brey for his efforts in the Big East Tourney and the NCAAs during his entire tenure at ND. I don't see how anyone could give him anything more than a C- at best.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:48 Jim Tal
1:51
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

I don't think you can give him that high of a grade - incomplete is more like it because the success Notre Dame has had in the regular season has yet to translate.

It's going to have to the next two, three, four seasons. The NCAA tournament was almost a bonus the last three years - no one expected the Irish to make the late run two years ago or even this year. The 2010-11 season was record-setting in so many ways that many figured they could stomach an early tourney exit to a Florida State team that was just better regardless of the No. 10.

That all ends next year. This team has the makings of being able to springboard what it does in the regular season into the post-season. Question is, can they make that move?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:51 sbtnoie
1:51
[Comment From IrishWay96IrishWay96: ] 
Cooley definitely takes home the MVP hardware. Weren't we told he'd be lucky to get 25 mins a game before the season because of a health condition? Cooley was a man child during most games and brought that toughness that lifted everyone up. Martin and Abro are obviously the biggest recruits to be had right now. Besides Jackson, who are some targets Brey is after for the Class of 2013 as we head into the summer recruiting cycle?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:51 IrishWay96
1:52
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
Ring of Honor - Let's get Tommy Hawkins in there next... while he's still alive. Very deserving, one of ND's all-time greats.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:52 Kevin
1:53
sbtnoie: 
Kevin:

Agree. Hawkins' efforts often go overlooked when discussing the program's all-time greats. The guy's rebounding record (1,318) has stood since 1959. Think about that for a second. He set a record that has held up for over 50 years. Impressive.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:53 sbtnoie
1:56
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
any sign of a new practice facility in the next few years?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:56 Mike
1:57
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Define few......two or three? Probably not. Five or six? Maybe. When it's come to taking care of the basketball program at Notre Dame, slow and steady often has been the operating procedure. Hope that changes.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:57 sbtnoie
1:58
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
We did not seem to have the 3 point sharp shooters this year as in years past. Do you think we have them on this roster but that they just need another year of growth?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 1:58 Rob
2:01
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

You've got guys who can hit the 3 in Jerian Grant and Pat Connaughton and then Eric Atkins in given situations. But that's a tricky proposition - the same Irish fans who insist Notre Dame shoots too many 3s are the same ones who worry there aren't enough shooters.

The way this roster is shaping up, Notre Dame doesn't need a spot-up guy from 3. Kick it into Cooley or Sherman and if nothing's there, kick it out to Atkins or Grant to create or shoot or find Connaughton.

It's only a matter of time until Connaughton bottles his effort of seven 3s against Villanova. Watch.

That's what made Dragicevich's decision to leave a little dubious - you had a guy who was told to shoot it, shoot it, and keep shooting it by the coaching staff. He had the green light to look for his shot at every opportunity, and likely would have the same role next season.

Instead, he says, nah, I'd like to play more and maybe start. Uh, OK.......
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:01 sbtnoie
2:01
[Comment From Brian (chicago)Brian (chicago): ] 
Any HC interviews for any of Brey's assistants? Who do you believe will come out of nowhere to have an impact next year ala Cooley this year. Thanks Tom.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:01 Brian (chicago)
2:04
sbtnoie: 
Brian:

All three of Notre Dame's assistants (Rod Balanis, Martin Ingelsby, Anthony Solomon) have aspirations of becoming a head coach, but each will leave only for the "right" situation. They're not going to take a job just to take one.

Let's go with Garrick Sherman as next year's surprise. Transfers have a way of falling off the colelge basketbal radar when they switch schools (see Hansbrough, Ben) and Sherman could be in line to have a solid season.

I'd also go with Cameron Biedscheid, but he's coming to town with a whole bunch of expectations that he can be a really good player.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:04 sbtnoie
2:04
[Comment From JimJim: ] 
would nd be interested in sterling gibbs as a possible transfer from texas
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:04 Jim
2:06
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

Probably not. Sterling Gibbs left Texas one year and I read today from SNY's Adam Zagoria, who's as plugged in as anyone to the hoops scene in the NYC area, that Gibbs' reason for leaving Texas was that he missed home.

I'd expect Gibbs to stay closer to the East Coast and his New Jersey home than look hard at Notre Dame.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:06 sbtnoie
2:06
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
You seem to have confidence that Sherman will be ready to really contribute next year (is that right?). Have you heard anything about how he has progressed and fit in in practices this last year? Has he bulked up any?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:06 Rob
2:09
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

Sherman has bulked up. I don't know how many pounds he's put on, but he just looks bigger than when I saw him in summer, when he was rail-thin. He's had two years of college basketball experience which he can put to good use. He's crafty around the basket and he and Cooley could have a lot of fun tag-teaming around the basket.

Transfers know that when they switch schools it's their last chance to take their career to a place where they feared it might not go. Notre Dame has had a solid track record (minus one, see Latimore, Dennis) when it comes to transfers. They play a lot and do a lot when eligible at Notre Dame.

I'd expect the same of Sherman.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:09 sbtnoie
2:09
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
Coaches have to be hard-wired to do their best to ignore fan criticisms. That said, a recurring theme over the past few trips to the NCAAs has been some subpar performances (or losses to lower, but underseeded, teams). Have the coaches ever addressed this perception, or is it unfair and perhaps just a fluky streak that is more indicative of regular season excellence/overachievement?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:09 Mike
2:15
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Mike Brey is aware that fans want more - anything they want from the postseason he wants and he expects his teams to do.

What Notre Dame has done under Brey in the regular season, really for the last three years, is nothing short of incredible, and any coach in the Big East, let alone the country, will tell you that.

But at some point, it has to extend into the postseason. I've been able to rationalize the NCAA tournament losses, and will continue to do so when discussing Winthrop, Washington State, Old Dominion and Florida State. For that one day - remember, it's not a seven-game series - those teams were just better and deserved to move on.

If you don't understand that, you might be wound a little too tightly with expectations about Notre Dame basketball.

Regardless of how Notre Dame came from nowhere this season to earn a bid, you cannot say the same about Xavier. Up by 10 with under 12 minutes to play, you've got to continue to play loose and go for it.

Notre Dame didn't. That has to change.

Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:15 sbtnoie
2:17
[Comment From IrishWay96IrishWay96: ] 
Cooley definitely takes home the MVP hardware. Weren't we told he'd be lucky to get 25 mins a game before the season because of a health condition? Cooley was a man child during most games and brought that toughness that lifted everyone up. Martin and Abro are obviously the biggest recruits to be had right now. Besides Jackson, who are some targets Brey is after for the Class of 2013 as we head into the summer recruiting cycle?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:17 IrishWay96
2:20
sbtnoie: 
Irish:

Now to part II of your question.

The number of prospects Notre Dame is involved with in the current junior class is minimal - other than Demetrius Jackson (Mishawaka), the Irish likely are in a wait-and-see mode until the sixth-year situation is cleared up.

Remember, Notre Dame already has commitments from two prep juniors - V.J. Beachem (Fort Wayne) and Steve Vasturia (Philadelphia).

Other than adding a big, or possible college transfer, there aren't many needs to address if the Irish add Jackson.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:20 sbtnoie
2:20
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
Do you thik Brey will emphasize more defense? The roster just seems to give him those horses, moreso than in years past. We did well last year but that seemed to be in part a product of the burn. Next year we will be more up tempo. Can we continue with our improved defensive perfromance?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:20 Rob
2:22
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

More defense? Really? Irish opponents averaged only 61.4 ppg and shot 31.4 percent from 3. That's pretty good.

Notre Dame will be more athletic next year, but that shouldn't take away from what it can do defensively, especially with the additions of Biedscheid, Sherman and possibly Katenda.

This team will be able to score it better, but also be able to continue to get the necessary stops at key times.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:22 sbtnoie
2:22
[Comment From NDHoopsRecruitsNDHoopsRecruits: ] 
Nice job as always. Last season the NCAA implemented the foul/charge arc. Any new things we'll see this season?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:22 NDHoopsRecruits
2:24
sbtnoie: 
ND:

Only one major one - they've talked about widening the lane, not to the trapezoid shape of international play but just a bigger rectangle. That's been discussed as something to use in the early-season tournaments, but not in the regular season. Probably more than a year away from that.

Mike Brey was one of the strongest proponents for the block-charge arc, but he rotates off the rules committee this offseason.


Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:24 sbtnoie
2:24
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
Hopefully, a change where they call lane violations consistently for all 40 minutes
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:24 Mike
2:27
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

This one's going to be a sore spot for Notre Dame fans for a while. But if you're Jerian Grant and your buddy is on the foul line with two shots to tie the game late in regulation, you're nowhere near sailing in for your Michael Jordan moment.

You really should be back near halfcourt telling everyone, my man EA is knocking these in and we're going to win in overtime.

But that didn't happen - so let's move on. Mike Stuart's lane violation call certainly didn't wipe out the double-digit lead in the second half, or cause Atkins to air-mail his pass to Pat Connaughton into the seats.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:27 sbtnoie
2:28
sbtnoie: 
A quick note on Cameron Biedscheid - he's ranked No. 28 in Rivals' final Top 150. Means nothing but still intrigued to see what skill set he can offer in the fall.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:28 sbtnoie
2:31
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
The block/charge arc is too small. It's close enough to the basket that a guy standing underneath it doesn't have to move much to become legal. Worse, many refs use the arc as a crutch, calling charges if the defender's feet are outside the arc even if he's still moving. That would be more obvious if the arc were the same as or closer to the NBA's.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:31 Kevin
2:31
sbtnoie: 
Kevin:

NCAA chief of officials John Adams would like a word with you on Line One.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:31 sbtnoie
2:33
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
who is the last recruit ND got that ranked that high? Chris Thomas? Luke Zeller?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:33 Mike
2:34
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Luke Zeller was Top 20 if memory serves me correct. Again, they mean nothing, especially when you get past the Top 10.....what is the criteria for determining No. 11 is better than 13 or 16 better than 22?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:34 sbtnoie
2:34
[Comment From Jim TalJim Tal: ] 
Tom, as an observer from the outside, it just seems to me that whenever the Irish stumble in the Big Dance, it doesn't pain and sting Brey as much as it should. In my opinion, he should be gut-shot but he seems all too ready to move on instead of really feeling the hurt of a disappointing loss. Since you're in the know, how much frustration does Brey actually experience when the Irish falter so badly? Do these type of painful losses disturb him like I feel they should? He just seems to easily inclined to brush them off like it's not that big of a deal.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:34 Jim Tal
2:40
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

I've been around Mike Brey and his staff for every NCAA tournament loss and trust me, they hurt. And it hurts deep. He's just better than maybe any other college coach in masking it.

He'll tell a joke, keep the mood loose, and talk of moving on because, well, what can you do but move on? Inside, though, those losses sting more than anyone else knows. He still thinks about Washington State and Old Dominion and if pumped with truth serum tonight likely will admit he'll think about Xavier for most if not all the summer given that a Sweet 16 trip was there for the taking.

Mike Brey can find all the right words in front of the tape recorders and television cameras, but when the media spotlight fades, those losses cut him deep. He just knows it's counter-productive to dwell on it publicly. He dwells on the Old Dominion loss publicly, maybe the 2010-11 team doesn't go 27-7.

Brey won't ever admit it, but he knows he's ultimately going to be judged by what this program does in the NCAA tournament the next three or four years.

It's never been OK just to get there. Ever.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:40 sbtnoie
2:40
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
I'm guessing that Mr. Adams will have heard more words than he cares to have heard after about two minutes.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:40 Kevin
2:42
sbtnoie: 
Kevin:

Funny, but he probably got an earful from Mike Brey. The day after Notre Dame returned home from Greensboro, Brey flew to Atlanta to be a part of the NCAA tournament studio show. And John Adams was there at the same time.

I guarantee that when the TV cameras went off, Brey and Adams huddled in the green room and and Brey started in with...."John, what is the #$@%%&$*(# world is Mike Stuart thinking in making a call like that at that time? Are you #$$%$@@ serious??"

Guaranteed.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:42 sbtnoie
2:47
sbtnoie: 
Time's running out to submit your vote for team MVP this season........
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:47 sbtnoie
2:49
[Comment From RobRob: ] 
I think we will have 5 players average double digits next year offensively. I think we have that much offensive talent but not one guy who seems to need to score 20 points a game. Do you think we will have that good of ball distribution next year to do that?
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:49 Rob
2:50
sbtnoie: 
Rob:

Having five guys average double figures is a realistic expectation. Having this same core group together for another year will make the ball movement even better. The passing will be crisper with a lot less indecision from Atkins and Grant.

I'll sign up for five averaging double figures.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:50 sbtnoie
2:51
[Comment From MikeMike: ] 
How has Mike Brey changed in his tenure at ND? It's been quite a while now. He's had chances to learn (Dennis Lattimore!), and has adapted his style of play to fit his personnel (sometimes mid-season!). I appreciate the latter observation above because it seems rare in coaches that are successful enough to get to that level. Curious to hear your observations.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:51 Mike
2:54
sbtnoie: 
Mike:

Way too much to digest and too little time to do it here.

Mike Brey has learned what it takes to win at a place like Notre Dame, which is different from any school in the Big East in terms of expectations academically and athletically. He's learned what it takes to win the league and the success you have to have in the league to get to the NCAA tournament.

I don't know how much he's really changed. He understands the basketball program's place in the big scheme of everything on campus. He didn't arrive believing he'd be the big man on campus and that one day hoops would matter more than football.

He's a teacher first, and that's important within the fabric of the university. He didn't go to South Bend looking for the next big job opportunity or pay day, and that's not something a lot of coaches can say.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:54 sbtnoie
2:55
[Comment From KevinKevin: ] 
That lane violation ought to be a warning on a made free throw similar to delay of game. Obviously, it has to be called if an advantages is gained trying to rebound a missed free throw, but there is no impact on a made shot. If, after a warning, it happens again, the ref would be well within his rights to call the violation on a made free throw regardless of the game situation.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:55 Kevin
2:56
sbtnoie: 
Kevin:

True, but I'd also bet that if a lane violation wasn't called the previous day in the Syracuse second-round game it wouldn't have been called in the closing seconds of the Notre Dame game.

It was almost as if officials were reminded when it happened in the Syracuse game - hey, remember guys, we've got to watch for that. It's happening all the time. Then it happens again, and we all know how that turned out.
Wednesday April 11, 2012 2:56 sbtnoie
3:02
sbtnoie: 
Solid effort from all involved today. Never thought this one would have run over three hours - in April. Nice to see so much interest. Now stop back next week.

If you have a question or comment that cannot wait, drop me a note at tnoie@schurz.com" target="_blank" >tnoie@schurz.com.

My vote for team MVP? Jack Cooley, and it's not that close. Mike Brey believed Notre Dame would be lucky to get 25 minutes a game from him this season.

Cooley averaged 28.7 minutes a game. He also averaged 12.5 points and 8.9 rebounds. He shot a Big East-best 62.5 percent from the field and 67.6 percent from the foul line (that's gotta be better, big man). He grabbed 295 total rebounds - 107 more than the next Irish.

Cooley also had a team-high 130 offensive rebounds. The next closest Irish was Pat Connaughton with 33.

Cooley led the Irish with 13 double-doubles for points and rebounds - 12 of those came in the Big East. No one saw this type of production coming. N-O-B-O-D-Y. Everyone figured Jerian Grant was talented to make a big splash, but Cooley shifted all the water out of the pool with his effort.



Wednesday April 11, 2012 3:02 sbtnoie
3:03
 

 
 
 





Tom Lemming

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