Please understand that I am not quoting Coach Pearl. I did not record his presentation or comments. I am paraphasing certain points from his presentation. At other times I am interpreting and speculating and may very well be dead wrong. So with the aforementioned disclaimer here is what I got from hearing Coach Pearl speak on Tuesday:
Speaking on incoming recruits:
Philip Jurick - BP referred to him as a big tough kid with a large wing span who is a good shot blocker. He also used the term "work in progress" in reference to Jurick.
Renaldo Woolridge - BP says he is a very good shooter with lots of upside. Says the team needs him to continue to improve to support JP and help make up for the loss of Duke Crews.
Scotty Hopson: Outstanding player who will should make an immediate impact. Should provide a formidable dribble penetration threat from the two guard.
Daniel West - Plans were for him backup Ramar Smith and develop his skills. I did not get the feeling that BP thinks he is ready to play a major role.
Bobby Maze - BP really seems high on this "pass first shoot second" kid. He did not come out and say it but I think Maze will be the starting point guard.
Speaking on next year:
The Vols lost 4 guards: (Lofton, J. Smith, R, Smith, J. Howell). Yet BP thinks that overall the team could be stronger at guard next season. I'm not quoting but that is the impression I got.
He fully expects to compete for the East Title. He think Florida will pose a major challenge. He thinks Billy Gillispie is a great basketball coach who must replace two outstanding guards. He likes Vandy's big Aussie center. However he thinks Foster will be hard to replace. He thinks Auburn (Yes Auburn) will challenge for the West. He says Lebo is a good coach who is returning everyone from a year ago. He also sees Ole Miss being much improved.
My Speculation
Based on what I heard I think next years depth chart may look something like this:
PG - Bobby Maze - Daniel West
2G - Scotty Hopson - Cameron Tatum
3G - JP Prince - Renaldo Woolridge
F - Wayne Chism - Brian Williams
F - Tyler Smith - Ryan Childress
I look for Phillip Jurick and Josh Tabb to get playing time as defensive stoppers depending on game situations. Tatum may see some time at the 3G so that he and Hopson are on th floor at the same time. Hopson's penetration should generate some good looks from 3 and Tatum is a good outside shooter. I also expect to see Woolride get some time at forward backing up Tyler Smith's spot.
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