Smith & Elvis Injury Reports…?

[T-Bone 84]

Any news yet?
Posted via Mobile Device

[podcast411]

Mali was carried off the court by the trainers, Elvis kind of limped off on his own with a little help from one trainer. At the end of the game I saw a UD person pushing a wheel chair back toward the player area. So assuming it is not good news for Mali. Most likely Mike is our PG for the new few games. Hopefully Elvia and Mali come back before A-10 play. But I tend to be overly optimistic when it comes to the flyers.

[TXFlyerFan]

I'd be surprised if Mali played again this season, tbh. It's likely an 8 week recovery at best, followed by conditioning. Maybe he's back by A10 tournament, but at that point, depending on how we're playing, why bother. Rest it until next year.

[steverino015]

yep, hate to even guess before we know the medical condition,
but me too. just rest it until next year for Mali...
Kobe, still waiting...

so we think what, Mike at point guard and Brea (if healthy)
at shooting guard... I guess

[cobra8u]

I hate to say but we better be recruiting over Mali, he is a liability that we can't afford. His style of play leads to the injuries he incurs so we can't count on him.

[Marysville Flyer]

Isn’t it possible for a guard to transfer mid season without sitting out if they hadn’t played up to this point ? Not saying that’s a good strategy but if possible might need to occur if there is an D1 talent.

I’m thinking of someone like Kaleb that could transfer at semester break and play immediately since he hasn’t seen the court yet?
Posted via Mobile Device

[pmcmullen]

I'm finding myself wondering if Mali will wind up in the Chase Johnson court. Good players and all, but the fact of the matter is D1 sports are strenuous and physical, and plenty of people can't hang. Obviously pulling for him, but it isn't looking good. And as a young man, he has a lot of walking to do outside of basketball in his life still.

[San Diego Flyer]

Originally Posted by TXFlyerFan I'd be surprised if Mali played again this season, tbh. It's likely an 8 week recovery at best, followed by conditioning. Maybe he's back by A10 tournament, but at that point, depending on how we're playing, why bother. Rest it until next year.

Pile on top of all the above is the challenge of achieving game-speed at an all -A10 level.
His numbers were off before the latest injury. No slam on Mali, but we are a mid-pack team without him at his 100% speed for us to finish high in the A10.

[NJFlyr71]

Re-injuries of any ligament on any joint is not good, he said with an obvious note to his voice.

You can only stretch a tendon or ligament so many times before it loses it elasticity. Only long term rest and very possibly surgery can allow the ankle to heal. AND that doesn't guarantee 100% recovery.

But we could wait and find out what the extent is (that is if AG even presents that info). We may find out only with MS absence in a uni.

[steverino015]

yep.. I know it is not the exact same thing, but
look how long it has taken Richard...
just wait and see what if any details come out
also waiting for any details on Kobe

[steverino015]

Originally Posted by Marysville Flyer Isn’t it possible for a guard to transfer mid season without sitting out if they hadn’t played up to this point ? Not saying that’s a good strategy but if possible might need to occur if there is an D1 talent. I’m thinking of someone like Kaleb that could transfer at semester break and play immediately since he hasn’t seen the court yet? Posted via Mobile Device

don't we have a scholarship left I think?
have no idea how this would work,
someone on this board can help us I'm sure..

is this even possible

[m21eagle45]

Originally Posted by Marysville Flyer Isn’t it possible for a guard to transfer mid season without sitting out if they hadn’t played up to this point ? Not saying that’s a good strategy but if possible might need to occur if there is an D1 talent. I’m thinking of someone like Kaleb that could transfer at semester break and play immediately since he hasn’t seen the court yet? Posted via Mobile Device

No, once the season starts, you are ineligible to play for another team that season. It is not the same as a redshirt. But we could look at a 5th year guy in a prep school and try and have them come in like Zimi and Amzil.

[podcast411]

Originally Posted by m21eagle45 No, once the season starts, you are ineligible to play for another team that season. It is not the same as a redshirt. But we could look at a 5th year guy in a prep school and try and have them come in like Zimi and Amzil.

I thought Greer played in the same season when he transferred?

[Lifelong Flyer Fan]

Greer played at Dayton. He could transfer mid-season, but he could not play at St Joe for the rest of that season because he had played at Dayton.

	St Joseph's ST. JOSEPH'S Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1851, Saint Joseph's University advances the professional and personal ambitions of men and women by providing a demanding, yet supportive educational experience. One of only 139 schools nationwide with a Phi Beta Kappa chapter and AACSB business school accreditation, Saint Joseph's is home to 4,200 full-time undergraduates and 3,100 graduate, part-time and doctoral candidates. Located in urban Philadelphia, SJU is a fellow member of the A10 Conference. Nickname is the Hawks. Athletic claim to fame is is the Hawk mascot, a university student on full scholarship who wears a Hawk uniform and flaps his wings continuously for an entire athletic event. School spirit slogan is "The Hawk Will Never Die."

[steverino015]

durn.....
are they many/any 5th year guys at prep schools at
this point in time...

[longtimefan67]

Yep, the only choices you have now are players that may have walked away from the game for whatever reason last year and want to play now and could maybe enroll 2nd semester or find someone similar to Uhl that is already at UD and could play Div I as a pg and now sees this as an immediate opportunity to play as a walk on (like someone on the baseball/football team etc..). Seems like Antwon Randle El did this for Bob Knight at IU back in the day.

[Sea Bass]

Originally Posted by podcast411 I thought Greer played in the same season when he transferred?

He had to sit out last season

[pmcmullen]

Now as more time plays out, I'm assuming no news is not good news. Usually "it's minor" is reported, like Holmes and Camara a couple games back. The silence on both is at very best a scouting report thing, but that seems unlikely to me - obviously with absolutely no inside scoop.

Someone mentioned earlier about tendons and ligaments, and I agree 100%. I was sad to see Chase Johnson drop out, but I also understood. You're very young in college, and you (should) have a lot of life left with only one body to live with. I would absolutely HATE to see Mali not be able to return and I'm certainly rooting him on to return as a Flyer, but I would never ask that at the expense of his long-term health. Closing your freshman year with an ankle injury, then having another before starting the next year, only to re-injure it in November is not a sign I'd be happy to see regarding my own body.

In terms of sitting on a 'ship this season, I hated to see it. I voiced that through the off-season, and this is exactly why. I just don't understand not filling the roster, and I definitely question the staff on that decision with so many known questionable players and situations last season. In the words of a Navy Seal, "Two is one, and one is none" on anything critical, and a PG in D1 hoops is pretty **** critical! And we knew Elvis wasn't one very early last year.

[steverino015]

yep.... Mali has to think about his future health... I normally
don't listen to the pregame on the radio, but will this time and
see if Larry or Brooks (or whoever, I like Brooks Hall's takes)
have any info... on both Mali and Kobe

I can't help not thinking about Richard during this, and what
he has gone through for his tendon and ligament damages..
prayers for Mali hoping for the best, prepared to hear anything
really... we'll see

	Brooks Hall BROOKS HALL 6-6 205lb Troy HS | Troy (OH) Cool, calm, cerebral wing player who finished among the Top-25 scorers in Flyer history. Deadly three-point shot and excellent passing skills. Helped Dayton reach two NCAA tournaments under Oliver Purnell. Consensus Top-125 recruit out of Troy HS in 1999 where he was D-I First Team All-Ohio and the media's choice for Ohio Mr. Basketball. CAREER STATS 1999-00 10.4ppg 5.8rpg 2000-01 9.20ppg 4.6rpg 2001-02 13.2ppg 5.0rpg 2002-03 12.8ppg 6.9rpg TOTALS 1404pts 686rbs 275asts

[MrFlyerFanatic]

I'm concerned about Elvis.
He was helped off, tried to walk by himself, and stopped in the tunnel and was helped from there. I haven't seen any of the replays, so I can't comment on the movement that caused the injury, but from his reaction, I'm concerned.
I've had friends tear ACLs. They could walk with pain after doing it. I have no knowledge of his actual injury, but that's my worst-case guess based on actions.

I did hear someone say that they saw players on crutches after the game. i thought they said 3 players, but I don't know who the 3rd would be. No mention of a wheelchair, but I did see someone wheeling a chair and carrying multiple crutches toward the locker room area.
Larry Hansgen posted a picture of Holmes, Amzil, Mike, and Uhl in the water park on Saturday morning.

	Larry Hansgen LARRY HANSGEN The long-time voice of the Flyers on NewsTalk Radio WHIO, Larry Hansgen provides play-by-play for all University of Dayton men's basketball and football games. Hansgen also serves as News Director for WHIO 1290 AM and 95.7 FM.

[Lifelong Flyer Fan]

Just heard on coach's show, don't expect to see Kobe and Malachi for a while, on crutches and outt for the foreseeable future. Hoping Koby will be able to practice tomorrow, and go from there if there are no set backs.

https://twitter.com/DavidPJablonski/...HPtCjLkc5TY1lw

[Monster Man]

Originally Posted by Lifelong Flyer Fan Just heard on coach's show, don't expect to see Kobe and Malachi for a while, on crutches and outt for the foreseeable future. Hoping Koby will be able to practice tomorrow, and go from there if there are no set backs. https://twitter.com/DavidPJablonski/...HPtCjLkc5TY1lw

If both are out for the season, I’m guessing they would be eligible for a medical red-shirt? Just an absolute kick in the nads for a season that seemed so full of promise a few weeks ago.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Sea Bass]

I guess I live too much in the moment to be worried about the future. Hopefully they will shoot better and I expect to see a lot of zone defensively.

[FlyerinChicago]

I wouldn’t expect much from either player for a long time. If Elvis’ injury is an ACL tear he’s done. Mali won’t be the same player until next year. And there’s no guarantee there. Let’s hope Mike stays healthy and plays lights out from here on out. No guard depth. But plenty of bigs on the bench or redshirting though, so that’s good. We need to recruit the best possible PG this off-season, priority #1. God, I miss Crutcher.
Posted via Mobile Device

[podcast411]

Originally Posted by FlyerinChicago I wouldn’t expect much from either player for a long time. If Elvis’ injury is an ACL tear he’s done. Mali won’t be the same player until next year. And there’s no guarantee there. Let’s hope Mike stays healthy and plays lights out from here on out. No guard depth. But plenty of bigs on the bench or redshirting though, so that’s good. We need to recruit the best possible PG this off-season, priority #1. God, I miss Crutcher. Posted via Mobile Device

The way Elvis's leg planted when he hurt it - It looked more like an hyper extension of the knee - then what would happen when you tear the ACL. My thoughts and prayers are with him and Mali for a full recovery.

[Flyerferd]

This blows. That’s all there is to it. Balls in your hands now Mike.
Posted via Mobile Device

[hawkoooo]

Originally Posted by Sea Bass I guess I live too much in the moment to be worried about the future. Hopefully they will shoot better and I expect to see a lot of zone defensively.

The optimism on this board should be bottled up and sold in stores. What moment are you living in chief? The moment has passed.

[Marysville Flyer]

Originally Posted by hawkoooo The optimism on this board should be bottled up and sold in stores. What moment are you living in chief? The moment has passed.

You said the same things last year 4 games in and were flat out wrong. There are plenty of opportunities for this team to get on the right side of the bubble yet this season as well as getting healthy and winning the conference tourney.

Will it happen? Who knows? Is it unlikely? Probably. Am I gonna wallow in self pity because AG isn’t my guy like some? Nope. The healthy players deserve the support of the fans as long as they are not disgracing the university regardless of what anyone thinks of the coach. How about sharing your rays of sunshine somewhere else?
Posted via Mobile Device

[Radar]

Originally Posted by hawkoooo The optimism on this board should be bottled up and sold in stores. What moment are you living in chief? The moment has passed.

Why not take your pessimism elsewhere…chief?
Posted via Mobile Device

[TXFlyerFan]

Originally Posted by Radar Why not take your pessimism elsewhere…chief? Posted via Mobile Device

Because if's a message board for Flyer fans, who are free to share their positive and negative opinions whenever they want. If you want an echo chamber, go start your own board.

[longtimefan67]

Let the season play out. Nobody knows what's in store. They could spend the next 2-3 games figuring it out in time for conference play, they could possibly get 1 of the guys back by conference tourney time; or they could do as some wish on this board and pack it up. If you're a fan, you want them to succeed no matter what happens. But since they're not professionals, you allow for the mistakes that are going to happen as well as the injuries.

[Smitty10]

Originally Posted by Radar Why not take your pessimism elsewhere…chief? Posted via Mobile Device

Yes, having your preseason top 25 team sitting at 3-4 and then receiving this kind of news should only be looked at with optimism. By SLU Billiken fans.

	Saint Louis SAINT LOUIS Saint Louis University is a Jesuit, Catholic university ranked among the top research institutions in the nation. The University fosters the intellectual and character development of more than 12,700 students. Founded in 1818, it is the oldest university west of the Mississippi and the second oldest Jesuit university in the United States. Located in St. Louis, MO, and just five minutes from the Gateway Arch, SLU offers 85 undergraduate programs and over 50 graduate study tracks. Over 99% of the SLU faculty hold the highest degree in their respective fields. Fellow member of the A10 Conference. Nickname is the Billikens, but also commonly known as "Sloo", the phonetic pronunciation of the school's initials. Athletic claims to fame include multiple national titles in men's soccer and men's basketball star Larry Hughes.

[UD62]

Interesting which posters dominate the conversations after a bad stretch.

[Lifelong Flyer Fan]

Jablonski twitter 10 pm last evening

Anthony Grant on Malachi Smith and Kobe Elvis: "Hopefully, at some point, we get both of those guys back during the course of the season." Neither need surgery, he said. No timetable, of course.

[podcast411]

Originally Posted by Lifelong Flyer Fan Jablonski twitter 10 pm last evening Anthony Grant on Malachi Smith and Kobe Elvis: "Hopefully, at some point, we get both of those guys back during the course of the season." Neither need surgery, he said. No timetable, of course.

Which is great news. Especially on Elvis - which does confirm it was not the ACL.

MMike can handle the reins for now and he will get a lot of valuable PT. He had two really sweet highlight passes last night. This team is going to prove the Nay Sayers wrong. (not a difficult task given who those nay sayers are).

Go Flyers.

[Radar]

Originally Posted by podcast411 Which is great news. Especially on Elvis - which does confirm it was not the ACL. MMike can handle the reins for now and he will get a lot of valuable PT. He had two really sweet highlight passes last night. This team is going to prove the Nay Sayers wrong. (not a difficult task given who those nay sayers are). Go Flyers.

Grant also added that Mali did not have a fracture and he also implied that, while both have a long road of rehab, that Kobe's road may be a little shorter.

[pmcmullen]

Originally Posted by podcast411 Which is great news. Especially on Elvis - which does confirm it was not the ACL. MMike can handle the reins for now and he will get a lot of valuable PT. He had two really sweet highlight passes last night. This team is going to prove the Nay Sayers wrong. (not a difficult task given who those nay sayers are). Go Flyers.

There certainly seems to be no shortage of talent or athleticism. It seems to me that the missing piece isn't personnel (aside from the fact that we started the season thin in the back-court, even before injuries plagued us), but rather we lack an identity that works. They have not appeared to gel in a game yet, even in the ones where we've won. Who knows when or if they will, but my guess is they can be dangerous if they do.

[OSU Flyer]

https://twitter.com/jbedellwhio

Mali Smith (ankle) and Kobe Elvis (knee) on the floor with @DaytonMBB for warmups. First time we’ve seen them at UD Arena without crutches since their injuries in The Bahamas. Mali still in that walking boot on his left foot.
Posted via Mobile Device

[hawkoooo]

Sounds like Mali is much closer than Elvis and we might see him back as soon as conference play.

[The Gem]

Originally Posted by hawkoooo Sounds like Mali is much closer than Elvis and we might see him back as soon as conference play.

That would be fantastic. I no longer have any social media accounts. Was there some sort of twittergramtiksnapbook post to that effect?

[The Fly]

Anybody see if Mali was still in a boot tonight?

[Swampy Meadows]

Originally Posted by The Fly Anybody see if Mali was still in a boot tonight?

Read that he was not there

[podcast411]

During the game broadcast Gillen mentioned that Mali could be back in a couple of weeks. Not sure why he would say that unless he had been told so by the coaches or players. No mention of Elvis status.

[Fudd]

Originally Posted by podcast411 During the game broadcast Gillen mentioned that Mali could be back in a couple of weeks. Not sure why he would say that unless he had been told so by the coaches or players. No mention of Elvis status.

Earlier in the broadcast Gillen said that both look to be back in the "near future". He made it sound like they were both on a similar timeline.

[CT Flyer]

Did not see Mali at the game yesterday.

[Flyers98]

Originally Posted by podcast411 During the game broadcast Gillen mentioned that Mali could be back in a couple of weeks. Not sure why he would say that unless he had been told so by the coaches or players. No mention of Elvis status.

Just remember that you are talking about a 75 year old man, when you say "not sure why he would say that," and then think about our president, (or your own father for that matter, at least my father). I'm guessing the staff isn't stonewalling Jablo but then having in depth discussions with Pete Gillen about injury timeframes. I always assume when an announcer says: "I talked to so and so before the game..." that they are lying or exaggerating.

[MrFlyerFanatic]

Elvis was moving well. Walking normally from what I could see. Doing some casual dribbling. He was wearing sweatpants, but you took tell that he was wearing a brace.

[maddog07]

Originally Posted by Flyers98 Just remember that you are talking about a 75 year old man, when you say "not sure why he would say that," and then think about our president, (or your own father for that matter, at least my father). I'm guessing the staff isn't stonewalling Jablo but then having in depth discussions with Pete Gillen about injury timeframes. I always assume when an announcer says: "I talked to so and so before the game..." that they are lying or exaggerating.

He probably got it from Jablonski. He really knows!

Maybe Gillian could ask Jabo why Grant let Mali come back slow and out of shape last time.
Posted via Mobile Device

[hawkoooo]

Also very possible that Gillen, despite his age, has twitter or has someone working for him that updates him with information from Twitter. All of the info in this thread could be found prior to the broadcast.

Also, doesn't anyone listen to Talking out Lowd?

[Flyers98]

Originally Posted by hawkoooo Also very possible that Gillen, despite his age, has twitter or has someone working for him that updates him with information from Twitter. All of the info in this thread could be found prior to the broadcast. Also, doesn't anyone listen to Talking out Lowd?

I thought the whole point was that he had info (supposedly) that people on this board were not aware of, (i.e. the time frame for Mali's return), thus the suggestion that he must have gotten it from the coaches or players. So the theory that he is aware of publicly available information doesn't seem to follow.

Original Post:

During the game broadcast Gillen mentioned that Mali could be back in a couple of weeks. Not sure why he would say that unless he had been told so by the coaches or players. No mention of Elvis status.

[hawkoooo]

It sounded to me like he was repeating the information Sully put out in the Wyoming preview: IIRC that Mali is no longer in the boot, could maybe be back prior to conference play, and seems to be on a faster timeline than Elvis.

[Smitty10]

Originally Posted by Flyers98 I thought the whole point was that he had info (supposedly) that people on this board were not aware of, (i.e. the time frame for Mali's return), thus the suggestion that he must have gotten it from the coaches or players. So the theory that he is aware of publicly available information doesn't seem to follow. Original Post: During the game broadcast Gillen mentioned that Mali could be back in a couple of weeks. Not sure why he would say that unless he had been told so by the coaches or players. No mention of Elvis status.

I don't think it was that at all. What I remember him saying something to the effect that "This Flyers team can be dominant in the A10 as they improve and hopefully get Mali Smith back in a couple weeks.". It was a general comment that you and I could make without really knowing Mali's status. Of course, if we were told Mali's done for 2 months, we wouldn't say it but the lack of info allows for hope and speculation.

[N2663R]

Originally Posted by Smitty10 I don't think it was that at all. What I remember him saying something to the effect that "This Flyers team can be dominant in the A10 as they improve and hopefully get Mali Smith back in a couple weeks.". It was a general comment that you and I could make without really knowing Mali's status. Of course, if we were told Mali's done for 2 months, we wouldn't say it but the lack of info allows for hope and speculation.

IMHO I think he was making a general statement just to have something to say and to avoid dead air during the broadcast. I seriously doubt Pete Gillen or his handlers get that deep in the weeds for a one off game, and I would further doubt that AG or UD would tip their hand to Pete Gillen. Just my $0.02.

[UD62]

One thing I like about this board, we don't over analyze topics.

[soccergod]

Malichi not on bench again tonight any word ?
Posted via Mobile Device

[Marysville Flyer]

Originally Posted by soccergod Malichi not on bench again tonight any word ? Posted via Mobile Device

We figured he went home for the holidays when he wasn’t in Chicago
Posted via Mobile Device

[Smitty10]

Originally Posted by Marysville Flyer We figured he went home for the holidays when he wasn’t in Chicago Posted via Mobile Device

Seems benign. Is this normal protocol that players that are injured pick the times they are on the bench supporting their team based on the convenience? Really not trying to insinuate anything, but it seems against the grain that an injured player would be on the bench then not because it's the holidays.

[Monster Man]

According to Jablonski, Mali is sick.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Smitty10]

Originally Posted by Monster Man According to Jablonski, Mali is sick. Posted via Mobile Device

Makes more sense.

[rollo]

Elvis was going thru all the pre-game warm up (shuffling, defense, shooting, FTs etc...) dills last night without a glitch. His moves were smooth, extension was long and wide...he looked 100% - definitely more graceful and athletic than Brea and Uhl who he was grouped with - and I expect him to play soon.

[Marysville Flyer]

Originally Posted by rollo Elvis was going thru all the pre-game warm up (shuffling, defense, shooting, FTs etc...) dills last night without a glitch. His moves were smooth, extension was long and wide...he looked 100% - definitely more graceful and athletic than Brea and Uhl who he was grouped with - and I expect him to play soon.

He clearly had a brace on his knee in Chicago. Last night if he had one on, it was a much less bulky one as it didn't appear like he was wearing one at all from a distance.

[steverino015]

Originally Posted by rollo Elvis was going thru all the pre-game warm up (shuffling, defense, shooting, FTs etc...) dills last night without a glitch. His moves were smooth, extension was long and wide...he looked 100% - definitely more graceful and athletic than Brea and Uhl who he was grouped with - and I expect him to play soon.

welcome back, Rollo!
any news on Mali, he was sick I think?
wonder how he is looking as far as the injury..

[rollo]

Originally Posted by Marysville Flyer He clearly had a brace on his knee in Chicago. Last night if he had one on, it was a much less bulky one as it didn't appear like he was wearing one at all from a distance.

He was in shorts for pregame warmups...wore No brace...not even one of those stretchy tommy-copper kind.

Regardless, he's not the cure at PG (neither is Brea) but he's a warm body that will allow Grant to limit Zimi's minutes, which can only help the team.

[Hyde Park Flyer]

Man, it would be great to get E back! He is our only guard with a mid range jumper. He can also beat guys off the bounce. With Brea back, AG can have a shorter leash with E and can sit him more on his bad nights. As much as it has sucked to play without E and Mali, it has put Mike’s development on the fast track. Brea has had to handle the ball more. Can’t wait til E is in the house!
Posted via Mobile Device

[CT Flyer]

I think the biggest reason to get either Elvis and/or Mali back is to get Mike some time at the 2 so he can score again. While his move to PG may have accelerated his growth there, it has stifled his scoring ability.

[Hyde Park Flyer]

It gives us another 3 point threat if he gets time at the 2 or 3.
Posted via Mobile Device

[CoffeeCan]

We need to play Alcorn St five more time to allow time for everyone to heal. That was awesome yesterday, just what the doctor ordered (see what I did there)

[jack72]

Originally Posted by CT Flyer I think the biggest reason to get either Elvis and/or Mali back is to get Mike some time at the 2 so he can score again. While his move to PG may have accelerated his growth there, it has stifled his scoring ability.

I agree Mike may score more at two, but he will play the point. He does a great job keeping the offense flowing. His work against the press yesterday was almost flawless.

[CT Flyer]

Originally Posted by jack72 I agree Mike may score more at two, but he will play the point. He does a great job keeping the offense flowing. His work against the press yesterday was almost flawless.

I agree he'll still see time at point, but once especially Mali is back, Mike will see more time on the wing which should help his scoring.

[Flyers98]

Originally Posted by podcast411 During the game broadcast Gillen mentioned that Mali could be back in a couple of weeks. Not sure why he would say that unless he had been told so by the coaches or players. No mention of Elvis status.

This is what I was responding to. If the facts are different, then my opinion might be as well.

[Flyers98]

Originally Posted by Smitty10 Seems benign. Is this normal protocol that players that are injured pick the times they are on the bench supporting their team based on the convenience? Really not trying to insinuate anything, but it seems against the grain that an injured player would be on the bench then not because it's the holidays.

Love "not insinuating anything" in the context of the rest of the post.

[Hyde Park Flyer]

Any of the ear to the ground folks around here have any kind of update?
Posted via Mobile Device

[Fudd]

Originally Posted by Hyde Park Flyer Any of the ear to the ground folks around here have any kind of update? Posted via Mobile Device

They were both out of boots and off crutches at the last game. Not sure what that means as far as timing, but it is better than before.

[Hyde Park Flyer]

I suppose that should give us some hope!
Posted via Mobile Device

[TA111]

FWIW, I heard Rex Gardecki mention on the postgame radio show that both were now participating in some team drills and looked pretty good. His guess was somewhere around the VCU game.

[Fudd]

Originally Posted by TA111 FWIW, I heard Rex Gardecki mention on the postgame radio show that both were now participating in some team drills and looked pretty good. His guess was somewhere around the VCU game.

I believe that when they come back, it's going to be another team-wide adjustment that has some difficulty. The team is in a groove right now, and those guys coming back is going to take some "figuring out" on adjusted roles. Ultimately, I see it as raising our ceiling, but in the short term, we may struggle to find a new groove.

I have a very hard time telling just how good we are due to bad competition now, and likely for the rest of the year. Would we fare better today against all of the teams that beat us up in the early season? Would those losses be wins with today's improved team? I'm not sure. I am quite confident that we are better now, but I don't know how we stack up to the top 25 teams. How good are we? I am vexed by that question.

[Hyde Park Flyer]

I don’t think it’s realistic to expect E and Mali to play 30+ minutes per game upon their return. They may start out in the 15-20 minutes range while they work back into a groove. Also, it’s not like they don’t see what’s going on. They are watching the games and film. They see the player and ball movement. It’s not like they’ll just show up and play and not practice either. They’ll get feedback from coaches. I would expect that they’ll be more capable and contribute more than Zimi and Uhl. My biggest concern is just about ego management. E and Mali are elite athletes. When healthy, they will want to be on the court. That will be a very real challenge for AG.

I am curious about how Mike is used as Mali and E work back into bigger roles. I hope that he can get more minutes at the 2 and 3 without too much learning time. It would be great if AG could get him more open looks from the perimeter.
Posted via Mobile Device

[The Gem]

I think they will have to fight for their staring jobs and minutes. Mali in particular hasn't played or practiced much at all this season. I think they will win them back, but it may take a few weeks. I kind of feel like the coaches have had conversations with everyone about how things will be once those guys are cleared to play. I don't think they are making it up on the fly. This is a good problem to have, and in the end will make the team much better.

[Hyde Park Flyer]

^this
Posted via Mobile Device

[SLUFLYER]

We'll be a faster team, and allow us to go more up tempo and push the ball up the floor when we want to (I'm not sure that's a focal point or strategy with this coaching staff). I'm not overly concerned with a chemistry or mojo issue upon their return to the rotation. Will be nice to finally have that depth we were expecting this season. Also, if it's even possible, we could even improve defensively as Mali has proven to be an elite defender, particularly on the ball, when healthy. Certainly not one of Mike's strong suits.

[TA111]

Originally Posted by Fudd I believe that when they come back, it's going to be another team-wide adjustment that has some difficulty. The team is in a groove right now, and those guys coming back is going to take some "figuring out" on adjusted roles. Ultimately, I see it as raising our ceiling, but in the short term, we may struggle to find a new groove. I have a very hard time telling just how good we are due to bad competition now, and likely for the rest of the year. Would we fare better today against all of the teams that beat us up in the early season? Would those losses be wins with today's improved team? I'm not sure. I am quite confident that we are better now, but I don't know how we stack up to the top 25 teams. How good are we? I am vexed by that question.

For the most part we have been excellent on the defensive end. The real difference as I see it, we are now making open threes, which is now giving our inside game more options. If we had shot like the last few games against Wisconsin and BYU there is no doubt those would be wins.

[steverino015]

having them back is a good situation to have,
even knowing the adjustments that will have to occur...
it will take time to get their minutes and play
back up to where it was....

but, it is good hear they are getting closer...
we will be deeper, which will bode well for us
in the A10 season and tournament...

the minutes others have had to play will also
help to the quality of depth.... looking so forward
to how the team develops. We have really done
very well losing our backcourt, all things considered.

[Radar]

I don't think Kobe or Mali need to drop a "he's back" social media video upon their return either.

[San Diego Flyer]

Originally Posted by Fudd I believe that when they come back, it's going to be another team-wide adjustment that has some difficulty. The team is in a groove right now, and those guys coming back is going to take some "figuring out" on adjusted roles. Ultimately, I see it as raising our ceiling, but in the short term, we may struggle to find a new groove. I have a very hard time telling just how good we are due to bad competition now, and likely for the rest of the year. Would we fare better today against all of the teams that beat us up in the early season? Would those losses be wins with today's improved team? I'm not sure. I am quite confident that we are better now, but I don't know how we stack up to the top 25 teams. How good are we? I am vexed by that question.

I think the nervousness about the excessive time off is legit, but it will be offset by two good players watching the execution of our offense and defense when it goes as planned. We can expect about the same transition that Koby had. ie legs and wind. And likely with measured minutes.

[Lifelong Flyer Fan]

If I heard correctly (sound was very low) Grant said in the post game that Kobe was and would be in a brace.

[TXFlyerFan]

Originally Posted by Lifelong Flyer Fan If I heard correctly (sound was very low) Grant said in the post game that Kobe was and would be in a brace.

He also said neither one is practicing yet, so best guess is weeks away from really participating.

[John C.]

I guess the real question is who sits. With Blakeney gaining new life and Amzil having a good year, they can't both be benched. I would understand Mike but the other two not so much.

[NJFlyr71]

Mali was injured IIRC during BOTH the summer and pre-season.

Played sparingly in the beginning and then got hurt AGAIN.

I doubt he plays much at first and could take a month of Sundays to get back in playing shape.

One thing you do NOT want to do with multiple injuries to the same body is give that body fatigue. Sure as shootin (No pun intended ) you set the man up for another bout of injury.


As for Elvis maybe all he needs is that brace and a little time to re-acclimate to the games' speed.

One of the first rules of engineering:

If at first you don't succeed ..... No wait!

If it ain't broke no way in heLL ya gonna need to fix it!

[frisco flyer]

Originally Posted by TA111 For the most part we have been excellent on the defensive end. The real difference as I see it, we are now making open threes, which is now giving our inside game more options. If we had shot like the last few games against Wisconsin and BYU there is no doubt those would be wins.

I actually think it’s the other way around. We are more determined and focused on getting the ball inside that it is causing the defense to collapse leaving the perimeter wide open. Inside out threes are almost always made at a higher percentage than other perimeter shots.

[Fudd]

I see it as Holmes has been steadily elevating his game so that other teams are forced to game-plan their defense around him. Previously, he was not pass out of that double team quickly, and defenses were able to rotate and cover the open shot before they paid the price.

Now, Holmes is passing crisply out of the anticipated double and his teammates know it's going to happen and are positioned on the weak side, ready to shoot when the ball arrives.

It is execution, IMO. Timing made all the difference.

[Hyde Park Flyer]

Player and ball movement have improved dramatically. Against SJU, it seemed that a lot of turnovers tended to be a result of the ball and players not moving. I can handle a couple/few turnovers because of an aggressive pass. It’s tough to deal with the ball stops, lazy pass turnover.
Posted via Mobile Device

	St Joseph's ST. JOSEPH'S Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1851, Saint Joseph's University advances the professional and personal ambitions of men and women by providing a demanding, yet supportive educational experience. One of only 139 schools nationwide with a Phi Beta Kappa chapter and AACSB business school accreditation, Saint Joseph's is home to 4,200 full-time undergraduates and 3,100 graduate, part-time and doctoral candidates. Located in urban Philadelphia, SJU is a fellow member of the A10 Conference. Nickname is the Hawks. Athletic claim to fame is is the Hawk mascot, a university student on full scholarship who wears a Hawk uniform and flaps his wings continuously for an entire athletic event. School spirit slogan is "The Hawk Will Never Die."

[TA111]

Originally Posted by frisco flyer I actually think it’s the other way around. We are more determined and focused on getting the ball inside that it is causing the defense to collapse leaving the perimeter wide open. Inside out threes are almost always made at a higher percentage than other perimeter shots.

I agree that inside outside is what you want, but if you look back at the first part of the season, teams were collapsing and daring us to shoot outside. We were missing wide open looks. We couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn from the three in the first month of the season.

[Jeff]

Originally Posted by The Gem I think they will have to fight for their staring jobs and minutes. Mali in particular hasn't played or practiced much at all this season. I think they will win them back, but it may take a few weeks. I kind of feel like the coaches have had conversations with everyone about how things will be once those guys are cleared to play. I don't think they are making it up on the fly. This is a good problem to have, and in the end will make the team much better.

I wouldn't return to the original formula. The injuries have forced the coaches to adjust, to the benefit of the team. Using Camara to assist bringing the ball up the court is a good example. The total focus of feeding Holmes and to a lessor extent Camara is an improvement. It's opened up looks for Amzil, Brea, and Mike. AG has gotten Mike to slow down, which has reduced his turnovers and fouls. Amzil is more willing to take the ball to the hoop now. Some of these things are individual growth, but there's clearly been adjustments and they have improved the results. Although, the schedule has been in our favor.

Don't get me wrong, we need these guys back. But Elvis taking 10 shots a game (Mali averaged 8) is going to reduce opportunities for the big guys.....and the inside/out strategy is working. The support guys, Amzil, Brea, & Mike were 9 for 19 last night. (I'll exclude RJ's insane 7-9 for this argument).

To me, it's just as important that when Mali & Elvis return, they play within the system that has evolved while they have been out.

It's going to be a very delicate balance to manage through during league play.

[Marysville Flyer]

I think Mike will play freer once Mali is able to play 20+ and even possibly with Elvis back.

He seems way too gun shy to take it to the hoop even when it’s right there in front of him and even more in transition. I’m sure this has been coached given his propensity for the charge.
Posted via Mobile Device

[Smitty10]

Originally Posted by TA111 For the most part we have been excellent on the defensive end. The real difference as I see it, we are now making open threes, which is now giving our inside game more options. If we had shot like the last few games against Wisconsin and BYU there is no doubt those would be wins.

If we had beaten Wisconsin, there wouldn't have been a game against BYU. We would've played Kansas and if we lost played USC or a win would've brought us Tennessee.

[shocka43]

Originally Posted by Fudd I believe that when they come back, it's going to be another team-wide adjustment that has some difficulty. The team is in a groove right now, and those guys coming back is going to take some "figuring out" on adjusted roles. Ultimately, I see it as raising our ceiling, but in the short term, we may struggle to find a new groove. I have a very hard time telling just how good we are due to bad competition now, and likely for the rest of the year. Would we fare better today against all of the teams that beat us up in the early season? Would those losses be wins with today's improved team? I'm not sure. I am quite confident that we are better now, but I don't know how we stack up to the top 25 teams. How good are we? I am vexed by that question.

They need to be eased back in for sure. The last thing this team needs right now are guys coming back trying to make up for lost time...

[steverino015]

agreed, think they will be able to give quality minutes
starting out off the bench and more as the games and
weeks progress..
really looking forward to the rest of the season and
tournament.. Once they are back to full speed, we
will be deep. I like where we are at and headed.

[Buckeye]

Other than being a great defender, the biggest thing we get with Mali coming back is someone that can drive the basket. When Holmes is being triple teamed and we aren't making 3s, it gives us one more way to score and hopefully avoid those long scoring droughts that lose leads.

[frisco flyer]

Originally Posted by Buckeye Other than being a great defender, the biggest thing we get with Mali coming back is someone that can drive the basket. When Holmes is being triple teamed and we aren't making 3s, it gives us one more way to score and hopefully avoid those long scoring droughts that lose leads.

Quite frankly, this phase of Mali’s game needs to improve. He is aggressive but predictable when he drives to the basket and more often than not, his shots get rejected. He is effective on the fast break, but in the half court offense, he needs to become more crafty and develop beyond his current one dimensional game under the basket.

He is definitely an asset to the team when he is healthy. His boundless energy and aggression elevate the level of play by the entire team. He is a disruptor on defense who can wreak havoc with the other team. And he commands the offense far better than anyone else we have. When he returns, I think our offensive metrics will go up appreciably, and with the elite defense we already have, we will be an impossibly tough out in the A10.

If he comes back fully healthy, I really think we have a realistic shot at getting into the tournament and making a deep run.

[CvilleFlyer]

Originally Posted by frisco flyer Quite frankly, this phase of Mali’s game needs to improve. He is aggressive but predictable when he drives to the basket and more often than not, his shots get rejected. He is effective on the fast break, but in the half court offense, he needs to become more crafty and develop beyond his current one dimensional game under the basket. He is definitely an asset to the team when he is healthy. His boundless energy and aggression elevate the level of play by the entire team. He is a disruptor on defense who can wreak havoc with the other team. And he commands the offense far better than anyone else we have. When he returns, I think our offensive metrics will go up appreciably, and with the elite defense we already have, we will be an impossibly tough out in the A10. If he comes back fully healthy, I really think we have a realistic shot at getting into the tournament and making a deep run.

I especially agree with the first paragraph above! Mali needs to take a different path to the basket and develop a 3 to 5 foot runner like Scoochie had. Before his latest injury he was always going to the basket from left to right around the free throw line or the top of the key and this would put too much stress on his right ankle when he planted it and turned east to north going to the basket.

I agree with everything else frisco flyer said about Mali. He is definitely an asset to the team when he is healthy. His defense is impeccable and I hope his injuries are all behind him.