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Chat Transcript: Talk Notre Dame basketball with Tom Noie

3:00 pm, May 16, 2012

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

 Live Chat: Talk Notre Dame basketball with Tom Noie(05/16/2012) 
11:52
sbtnoie: 
Sunday may have been a big day for mom's around the world - bless them all - but the start of the new week also marked a big day for the Notre Dame men's basketball team.

For the first time this offseason, Irish coach Mike Brey had a clear idea of what his roster will look like in 2012-13.

Tim Abromaitis will not be back.....sophomore guard Alex Dragicevich finalized plans Saturday to transfer to Boston College and the NCAA finally ruled that Scott Martin can return for a rare sixth season.

All the starters return from the 2011-12 team that finished 22-12, 13-5 in the Big East. And all the pieces are in place for the Irish to embrace expectations and dream big dreams for 2012-13.

But dreaming those big dreams may not be enough. It's time for the program to start living them - and that means, at the least, getting to the second weekend of the NCAA tournament.

Agree? Disagree? What needs to happen for the Irish to max out this coming season as they did the previous three? What do you like about the pieces in place? What are the concerns?

Be sure to include your name and hometown in your question or comment. Time to talk some hoops. Who's with me? Let's do it.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 11:52 sbtnoie
11:59
[Comment From George (Bloomington, IN)George (Bloomington, IN): ] 
Any big non conference home games this year? Or big non conference games in general? Would love to see the Hoosiers and the Irish rekindle their old rivalry.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 11:59 George (Bloomington, IN)
12:02
sbtnoie: 
George:

Notre Dame is still awaiting word on what home game it will get as part of the Big East/SEC Challenge - likely Tennessee or Vanderbilt. The Irish also play a home game against George Washington, and that's it as far as non-league "marquee" home games go for this season.

As for rekindling the rivalry with Indiana, don't hold your breath for the traditional home-and-home series. Notre Dame has a tough enough time drawing fans for its home games - marquee or otherwise. Bring Indiana to Purcell Pavilion and those Notre Dame fans who don't bother to show up for the Seton Halls and South Floridas suddenly resurface wearing red sweaters and cheering for the Hoosiers.

The Notre Dame-Indiana series is best left to be played at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:02 sbtnoie
12:02
[Comment From Smitty, TempeSmitty, Tempe: ] 
do you see Dragicevich getting big minutes/points at BC? i liked the kid, but just can't imagine he'll be a major player in the ACC. looking back, i think a redshirt year would have really benefited him, agree?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:02 Smitty, Tempe
12:06
sbtnoie: 
Smitty:

Getting big minutes at Boston College? Probably, because if that wasn't the case, then the transfer would be a mistake. Dragicevich averaged 20 minutes a game last season, and he felt he could play more. When you transfer, not only are you doing so to start fresh, but you're going after the "sure thing." If it doesn't work out, you can't pack up and leave again, so whatever school you choose, you better be completely sure it's going to meet your needs.

Dragicevich is a good fit for coach Steve Donahue's system. Boston College may not be very good the next couple years, but Dragicevich can be a competent third guard. He wants to use his transfer year to get stronger, quicker and become a better rebounder.

Dragicevich toyed with the option of sitting out a season at Notre Dame, and might have benefited from it. But it still wasn't going to do much about the log-jam at the wing spot.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:06 sbtnoie
12:09
[Comment From Joe (MD)Joe (MD): ] 
Any chance that Nic Moore (Warsaw HS) is going to end up transferring to ND?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:09 Joe (MD)
12:12
sbtnoie: 
Joe:

There's always a chance it works out, but Marian High School guard Demetrius Jackson has a better chance of playing for Notre Dame right now than does Nic Moore.

It would make a good story - area kid comes back and steps into a big role for Notre Dame. But for now, it's a non-story, and that may not change. There's interest from both sides, but on a scale of 1 to 10, you might put it at a 4.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:12 sbtnoie
12:14
[Comment From PhilPhil: ] 
I know basketball means very little in the conference decisions at ND, but would b-ball be better off in the ACC should Notre Dame decide to go that route?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:14 Phil
12:17
sbtnoie: 
Phil:

Yes, yes and yes. Anything other than the Atlantic Coast Conference - should the Big East no longer be an option - and the Irish would be starting over from scratch.

If Notre Dame lands in the Big Ten or the Big 12, Mike Brey will be sitting on the beach back at his summer home in Rehoboth than planning to coach the Irish. I can't see him wanting to start over at his age. Notre Dame's footprint is buried along the East Coast. To jump anywhere away from that would gut the program.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:17 sbtnoie
12:17
[Comment From Jack From GrangerJack From Granger: ] 
Can ND win 30 games next year? All five starters are coming back.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:17 Jack From Granger
12:20
sbtnoie: 
Jack:

Thirty wins seems awfully optimistic given that the Irish will have to do something it hasn't been able to do in past seasons - play with and thrive under heavy expectations.

I'd rather the Irish win 25 games if it meant going deeper in the NCAA tournament. It's hard to put a number on how many wins would classify a successful season. It's easier to do in terms of the NCAA tournament.

Want next season to be a success? Win two games in March when it really matters. That will mean a heck of a lot more than chasing the all-time school record for wins.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:20 sbtnoie
12:20
[Comment From RonnieRonnie: ] 
I saw some videos of Steve Vasturia on utube and some of the comments posted were, "range of days" or "the next Jimmer" Is Vasturia on the level of Jimmer or are those comments probably posted by friends or family members?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:20 Ronnie
12:22
sbtnoie: 
Ronnie:

Probably a little of both - and remember, he's doing it in high school. I tend to take the cautious approach when evaluating any kid that's going to wear a Notre Dame uniform.

Remember, the expectations were enormous for former Irish power forward Luke Zeller - and minimal for former Irish power forward Luke Harangody. Who had the better collegiate career? Nobody would have guessed that when both were coming out of high school.

Vasturia is a talent, but let's see what he can do against Big East-caliber competition before firing up the Jimmer comparisons.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:22 sbtnoie
12:23
[Comment From WillWill: ] 
I would love to see more Hoosiers on the Notre Dame roster. Does Brey have any interest in Devin Cannady (Marian HS) , Mack Mercer (Plymouth) , Aaron Brenann (Noblesville) or Tyler Wideman (St. John) . Also, why is it so hard for Brey to connect with Indiana kids?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:23 Will
12:25
sbtnoie: 
Will:

What about Luke Harangody? Luke Zeller? Scott Martin? Chris Thomas? Austin Burgett coming in this fall? Mike Brey's not going to solely recruit Indiana kids, and Indiana kids aren't always exactly thrilled with the possibility of playing in the Big East if they can play in the Big Ten and stay close to home.

Notre Dame has recruiting its share of Indiana kids, and for the most part has signed the kids they've targeted. Irish coaches have scouted the Cannadys and the Mercers of northern Indiana. If they decide those kids are fits, then they'll turn up the intensity of the recruiting.

But get an Indiana kid just because he's an Indiana kid? That wouldn't work out well.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:25 sbtnoie
12:26
[Comment From RobbRobb: ] 
Tom, Do you think the longer and longer he waits, that Demetrius Jackson is going to go somewhere else other than Notre Dame? Do you think Brey can seal the deal with young Mr. Jackson?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:26 Robb
12:30
sbtnoie: 
Robb:

Recruiting is such a wacky racket. Think about it - people sometimes get more caught up in what's going on in the head of a high school junior than how the current guys on their favorite team are faring. It's really a bizzare world, and one I'm glad I don't have to visit too often. You have people two and three times the ages of these kids waiting breathlessly for them to make a decision.

Demetrius Jackson has always held his recruiting cards close to his recruiting vest. He never came out when he was a freshman or sophomore and declared that it was his lifelong dream to attend Notre Dame. Or any other school.

The fact that he's prolonged this process likely doesn't harm or hurt Notre Dame and any other school on his final wish list. You get the impression that he enjoys it - that he wants to be wanted.

Notre Dame has done all it could to make Jackson feel wanted. If at the end of the recruiting day Jackson seeks something else, so be it.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:30 sbtnoie
12:31
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
TN, I hope you're well. Who is "Nic Moore" and where does he currently play?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:31 Slide_Piece
12:33
sbtnoie: 
Slide:

All is well and good to hear from you. Nic Moore is a 58, 5-9 guard who played at Warsaw High School, about 90 minutes from Notre Dame. He signed with Illinois State and played well this past year - as a freshman - in the Missouri Valley.

When Tim Jankovich left ISU to become the coach in waiting at Southern Methodist, Moore announced plans to transfer. He'll look at Notre Dame, but I don't know how realistic it is that he ultimately sign with the Irish.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:33 sbtnoie
12:34
[Comment From PaulPaul: ] 
Boston Celtic coach Doc Rivers has a point guard playing son (class of 2014) named Spencer. Have you heard anything about his game? Since Doc's 2 older sons played D1 ball, maybe he has a third in Spencer. SInce the Irish need a point guard, do you think he is on Breys radar?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:34 Paul
12:35
sbtnoie: 
Paul:

Maybe somehwere down the line, but the day I start tracking kids who are sophomores and might be potential fits is the day I turn in my laptop and take a desk job somewhere.

Way, way too early to start wondering about prep sophomores. He could be a good one, like his older brother, Austin, or he could be like his other older brother in Jeremiah.

Let's revisit the topic in say, a year and a half or so. Deal?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:35 sbtnoie
12:35
[Comment From DiggerDigger: ] 
It seems that you are getting tired and irritated from all the Demetrius Jackson questions.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:35 Digger
12:37
sbtnoie: 
Digger:

Not at all. Get them every week. People want to know the latest - but there really is no latest. Teenagers will change their minds five, six times a day on the most mundane topics. I suspect Jackson goes back and forth as well - Michigan State....then Notre Dame......maybe Florida State......boy, would it be nice if Kentucky called.....wonder if I can play at Duke.

It's just the way of the recruiting world. They're talents, but they're also kids.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:37 sbtnoie
12:38
[Comment From RodneyRodney: ] 
I have been hearing all of the Nic Moore hype the last couple of days. Could you please talk a little about the difference in talent between the Big East and the Missouri Valley. Scoring 20 against Evansville will not prepare you for Syracuse, Gtown or Louisville. Do you agree?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:38 Rodney
12:40
sbtnoie: 
Rodney:

Let's slow the down the Nic Moore express train to South Bend. It's likely not going to happen for the reasons you mentioned above. Nic Moore getting 20 in a Valley game is a whole lot different than going for 20 against Louisville or Connecticut.

He's a 5-9 guard (likely closer to 5-8) who seems to be a scorer first, a point guard second. Don't know if he fits the profile of what Mike Brey wants in his guards.

If the hype quickens over Nic Moore's supposed interest in the Irish, it means one thing - it's a slow news day.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:40 sbtnoie
12:43
[Comment From SteveSteve: ] 
Do you think Demetrius Jackson can play at a high level in the SEC, Big Ten, ACC, or Big East? After seeing him on the front page of ESPN.com's High School page a few days ago, some are thinking he's the real deal. What's your take?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:43 Steve
12:44
sbtnoie: 
Steve:

He can play at any level, be it the Big East, the Big Ten.....he's good. Really good. Plays with a good pace, doesn't seem to ever be in a hurry.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:44 sbtnoie
12:44
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
Rodney, I am with you my friend. 5'8" / 5'9" guard from Warsaw!?!?! The greatest guard that ever came out of Warsaw (Kevin Ault) was a serviceable guard in the MVC. I was skeptical the minute I heard someone fawning on the myth of Warsaw basketball, specifically a 5'8" guard! Great call out.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:44 Slide_Piece
12:44
sbtnoie: 
There you go. Nic Moore is a solid player, but maybe just not in the Big East.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:44 sbtnoie
12:45
[Comment From BenBen: ] 
Tom, I remember back in the 80's when Kansas was recruiting Danny Manning, to seal the deal they offered his HS coach (his father) an assistant coach position. Michigan also did the same in the 90's with Jalen Rose. Maybe Brey should offer the Marian Coach, Robb Berger a job in order to secure Jackson and Devin Cannady. What do you think? I'm trying to think outside the box here!!!
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:45 Ben
12:47
sbtnoie: 
Ben:

Yeah, probably not. If Mike Brey is guilty of anything in terms of his recruiting it's that he refuses to do the dance you have to dance to get kids. That was one of the big drawbacks of why he didn't push for the Maryland job last year - he knows well the AAU scene back in the Washington area and he's simply not going to get involved in those handshakes and winks and back-room agreements just for the chance to talk to kids.

Robb Berger's not coming to Notre Dame anytime soon. Stay inside the box.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:47 sbtnoie
12:50
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
Gentleman Ben ... before there was Robb Berger .... there was BOB BERGER. Bob Berger is a certified HOF member of the table of wiseman from the SBCSC high school basketball coaching FRATERNITY (picture "The Wisemen" from the movie "Training Day"). Bob Berger has forgotten more basketball than you or I will ever grow to know.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:50 Slide_Piece
12:50
sbtnoie: 
Slide:

Good to see you've brought your 'A' game today.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:50 sbtnoie
12:51
[Comment From Ed,GreensboroEd,Greensboro: ] 
BBQ for lunch,beer at Natty's-so naturally I thought of you.I can't help but feel this season will be a defining one for Mike Brey and his program.Make a run in the N.C.A.A's and the mometum will be incredible. If not, it will be the "same old irish."Thoughts? Thanks for all you do.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:51 Ed,Greensboro
12:54
sbtnoie: 
Ed:

Good to hear from you - get some takeout from Stamey's for me, would you?

This coming season isn't a make-or-break out the For Sale sign on Mike Brey's home, but eventually, Notre Dame needs to go deeper into March. Winning at least 10 games in the Big East and challenging for the double-bye in the Big East Championship have solidified Notre Dame as one of the most stable, repsected, consistent programs in what many will argue has been the nation's premier basketball conferences.

But at some point, you have to take it from Point A to Point B and then to Point C. Brey has gone from A to B during his days in South Bend, but has been to C only once - 2003.

If not next year, or the following year for certain, than when? Ever?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:54 sbtnoie
12:58
[Comment From Ed,GreensboroEd,Greensboro: ] 
I'll look into the BBQ for you.Hush puppies too-right?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:58 Ed,Greensboro
12:58
sbtnoie: 
Hush puppies I'll pass on? But plenty of sauce and white bread to go!
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:58 sbtnoie
12:59
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
TN, I am very proud and delighted to see your tone shift to (paraphrasing) - It's high time we make a run we can all be proud of in March (starting with the B.E. tourney). These kids PLAY BASKEBTALL, being tired and worn down in the B.E. tournament is not an excuse. MAKE IT HAPPEN. EXCEED EXPECTATIONS. PLAY TO WIN! (Somehwere Richmond's coach lurks and bides his time). Go Irish. Expectations are high so get in great shape now!
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:59 Slide_Piece
1:02
sbtnoie: 
Slide:

Tone's never really changed. Other than two years ago, with the Hansbrough team that ran into the buzzsaw that was Florida State, Notre Dame has had teams that weren't really ready to make runs in the NCAA tournaments.

That year's team was built for a deep run. I even traded words with Hansbrough after the loss to Florida State for questioning that, at the LEAST, why this team didn't get to the Sweet 16.

You couldn't always say that about past Notre Dame teams. They've run into teams in the NCAA tournament that have just been better, regardless of conference affiliation.

It's time for Notre Dame to be the better team into the second weekend the next couple years.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:02 sbtnoie
1:08
sbtnoie: 
The NCAA ruled last week that Scott Martin can return for a sixth season in 2012-13. What would you like to see Martin do better to help the Irish be better next season?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:08 sbtnoie
1:10
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
TN, the memory of the F$U abomination still causes me to sleepwalk at night and bash my head into dry wall. We will have to agree to disagree on that particular game. I saw a coach that day who was worse off than a deer in headlights. There were ZERO in-game adjustments once the trusty-dusty three pointers weren't falling. F$U was playing for blood that day and Brey was deciding which Chicago sandwich shop to order take out from midway through the 2nd half. That was an UGLY loss and one that I am still not over. My wife tells me that I still scream "MAKE an ADJUSTMENT!" in my sleep some nights.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:10 Slide_Piece
1:15
sbtnoie: 
Slide:

True, but remember what happened in the first few minutes of that game - Scott Martin suffered a serious back injury, Florida State did something it wasn't expected to do (hit 3-pointes) and it all threw everything out of whack.

Instead of leaning on Martin for 34 minutes for defense and rebounding, Notre Dame had to mix and match its rotation with guys like Joey Brooks.

Florida State was just better - long, athletic, physical. The Irish train that had chugged along to 27 wins and a 14-4 league mark ran out of steam.

I still contend that the 2011 NCAA tournament was lost not in the United Center that night against Florida State but back at Madison Square Garden during the Big East Championship semifinal loss to Louisville. Notre Dame was 20 minutes from playing for a league title for the first time in school history.

When the Cardinals roared back in overtime, they did more than take the game. They took the Irish heart. Notre Dame never was the same after that night. I remember walking out onto Seventh Avenue at around 1 a.m. after that game thinking, Man, it's going to be a short stay in the NCAA tournament.

Notre Dame was done.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:15 sbtnoie
1:18
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
Correction TN: Joey Brooks did not play in that game until mop up time. Losing Martin was a setback but F$U was "like a FATHER CHASTISING HIS SON" that day. It was embarassing.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:18 Slide_Piece
1:19
sbtnoie: 
True, but once the Seminoles hit those two 3s, one of which was banked in from the corner, I remember thinking , uh-oh, this one's going to get ugly.

It was over before halftime.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:19 sbtnoie
1:34
[Comment From KenKen: ] 
I watched the press conference with Coach Brey and Scott Martin and it seemed like Brey is very excited for the upcoming season. Did you get the sense that he has a hunger to do much more this season and do you think that will change the intensity with which he coaches? He seems to be a pretty laid back guy. Do you think he now feels an urgency that will translate in to how he coaches the team?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:34 Ken
1:38
sbtnoie: 
Ken:

I think he knows he's entering a two- to three-year stretch where Notre Dame could really do something in the Big East and in the NCAA tournament. Especially with the league a little down and Pittsburgh and Syracuse on their way out.

It's as close to a perfect storm as he's had here in South Bend in terms of the roster having depth and talent and a mix of young and old all at the same time.

He's also excited because it's May, when it's easy to get excited for hoops because the past season is far enough in the past and the grind of the next season has yet to begin with summer school and the evaluation period, etc.

He's fresh and focused now. Let's see if he's still that way in September and October when reality arrives and the expectations underscore that big things are expected of Notre Dame this year.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:38 sbtnoie
1:39
[Comment From BenBen: ] 
I take it your either very good friends with Bob Berger or your related to him. I don't know why else you won't share his career coaching stats with Slide Piece.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:39 Ben
1:40
sbtnoie: 
Ben:

Huh? I' ve been with the Tribune for 20 years and have had maybe two conversations with Bob Berger. Don't quite know what you're saying.

If you have his coaching stats, let's have them, though I don't know why that would be relevant to Notre Dame hoops talk.

And now, back to Irish hoops.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:40 sbtnoie
1:45
sbtnoie: 
Eric:

Pat Garrity definitely deserves to be among the next group of guys inducted to Notre Dame's Ring of Honor. He didn't play on many successful Irish teams, but nobody played harder every single night than Pat Garrity.

What he was able to do often with little or no help is nothing short of amazing. Guy was a gamer.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:45 sbtnoie
1:48
[Comment From SteveSteve: ] 
Is there a good possibility that Nic Moore from Illinois State lands at ND?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:48 Steve
1:49
sbtnoie: 
Steve:

No. For a more complete answer, look above. That topic was covered earlier. I just don't see it working out for all involved. There may be initial interest, but after that, he's a 5-9 guard who's score first and second, pass a distant third.

Don't think he fits what the Irish need.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:49 sbtnoie
1:51
[Comment From Scott (Mishawaka)Scott (Mishawaka): ] 
Do you expect Brey to get an extension this summer?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:51 Scott (Mishawaka)
1:52
sbtnoie: 
Scott:

The extension is there and waiting to be signed. It would be nice if it were finalized, but he does have a few years left on his current deal. It's not like he's entering the option year of his contract and has to win to save his job.

It will get done. It's just a matter of when - kind of like the Scott Martin situation. There is no hurry, so no worry.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:52 sbtnoie
1:59
[Comment From Jim Tal, Valley CenterJim Tal, Valley Center: ] 
Tom, Always look forward to these chats. Great info always dispensed. My question concerns the the incoming freshman. If you had to guess right now and given the depth of the current roster, how many of the frosh do you think will seek to preserve a year of eligibility and red-shirt in 2012-13?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:59 Jim Tal, Valley Center
2:02
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

Good to hear from you. Mike Brey said this week that he expects two of the three freshmen (he didn't name them, but didn't have to - Zach Auguste and Cameron Biedscheid) jump immediately into the mix for playing time. Both will get that chance.

The third, Austin Burgett, may sit out the season to preserve a year of eligibility if it's clear that it will be difficult to get minutes. But if he arrives on campus next month and proves he can make the adjustment, the rotation really gets interesting.

Stay tuned.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:02 sbtnoie
2:02
[Comment From Irish fan from Irish landIrish fan from Irish land: ] 
Greetings Tom! Thanks for the great article this past week in the paper: “where are they now?” I couldn’t help thinking after reviewing the article that there was very little success at the next level when it comes to former top players. Then I thought how great of a coach M. Brey must be considering how low of a talent level he has had to work with. Any chance we start landing some top talent? Ex. Muffet McGraw just landed the no. 4 player overall. I have been a huge fan of M. Brey; I feel he always over achieves with the talent that he has to work with. When and/or will top talent ever recognize that? Or is the reality of it- top talent will never come to a school that focuses on an education first? Last comment I’m slightly concerned that some of the quotes I have heard have sounded more like putting a limit on next year. Such as: “we should make the sweet 16 next year”- why not saying things like I don’t see any reason why we can’t be one of the last 4 teams competing for the title? Thanks Tom keep up the great coverage.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:02 Irish fan from Irish land
2:05
sbtnoie: 
Irish:

Thanks for the note - Mike Brey has never said, and will never say, boy if we can just get to the Sweet 16......he's always talked of dreaming big dreams - that means chasing the Big East championship and making a deep run through the NCAA.

No coach ever, ever, ever should be a ceiling on what his team is capable of doing. Privately, Brey may wonder if his team will have the horses to go this far or that far, but he's never going to verbalize that publicly.

As for the first part of your question, the top-tier talent is very rarely going to look at Notre Dame in men's hoops. Too many other options out there where they don't have to concentrate on academics. Not the case in the women's game, where Notre Dame is one of only a handful of "elite" programs that can challenge for the Final Four.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:05 sbtnoie
2:06
[Comment From Dan, Fremont, INDan, Fremont, IN: ] 
Do you think Garrick Sherman's performance in practice was part of the writing on the wall for Alex.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:06 Dan, Fremont, IN
2:08
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Not really, but it would have been a factor. Given what Garrick Sherman can offer next season, Mike Brey is anxious to play him at the same time as Jack Cooley, which cuts into the minutes of others in the rotation.

Alex Dragicevich saw that Eric Atkins and Jerian Grant were locked in at the starting guard spots where they will play 34-38 minutes a game. Pat Connaughton wrestled his starting spot away from him this year and Cameron Biedscheid is coming quickly. Dragicevich feared this year would be as good as it would get.

He may have been right.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:08 sbtnoie
2:35
sbtnoie: 
Thanks for all who participated in this week's chat. Stop back around same day (Wednesday) and same time (noon) next week for more Notre Dame hoops chatter. if you have a question or comment that cannot wait, drop me an e-mail at tnoie@schurz.com" target="_blank" >tnoie@schurz.com.

Take care and have a great rest of the week.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:35 sbtnoie
2:35
 

 
 
 



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


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

 Live Chat: Talk Notre Dame basketball with Tom Noie(05/16/2012) 
11:52
sbtnoie: 
Sunday may have been a big day for mom's around the world - bless them all - but the start of the new week also marked a big day for the Notre Dame men's basketball team.

For the first time this offseason, Irish coach Mike Brey had a clear idea of what his roster will look like in 2012-13.

Tim Abromaitis will not be back.....sophomore guard Alex Dragicevich finalized plans Saturday to transfer to Boston College and the NCAA finally ruled that Scott Martin can return for a rare sixth season.

All the starters return from the 2011-12 team that finished 22-12, 13-5 in the Big East. And all the pieces are in place for the Irish to embrace expectations and dream big dreams for 2012-13.

But dreaming those big dreams may not be enough. It's time for the program to start living them - and that means, at the least, getting to the second weekend of the NCAA tournament.

Agree? Disagree? What needs to happen for the Irish to max out this coming season as they did the previous three? What do you like about the pieces in place? What are the concerns?

Be sure to include your name and hometown in your question or comment. Time to talk some hoops. Who's with me? Let's do it.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 11:52 sbtnoie
11:59
[Comment From George (Bloomington, IN)George (Bloomington, IN): ] 
Any big non conference home games this year? Or big non conference games in general? Would love to see the Hoosiers and the Irish rekindle their old rivalry.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 11:59 George (Bloomington, IN)
12:02
sbtnoie: 
George:

Notre Dame is still awaiting word on what home game it will get as part of the Big East/SEC Challenge - likely Tennessee or Vanderbilt. The Irish also play a home game against George Washington, and that's it as far as non-league "marquee" home games go for this season.

As for rekindling the rivalry with Indiana, don't hold your breath for the traditional home-and-home series. Notre Dame has a tough enough time drawing fans for its home games - marquee or otherwise. Bring Indiana to Purcell Pavilion and those Notre Dame fans who don't bother to show up for the Seton Halls and South Floridas suddenly resurface wearing red sweaters and cheering for the Hoosiers.

The Notre Dame-Indiana series is best left to be played at Bankers Life Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:02 sbtnoie
12:02
[Comment From Smitty, TempeSmitty, Tempe: ] 
do you see Dragicevich getting big minutes/points at BC? i liked the kid, but just can't imagine he'll be a major player in the ACC. looking back, i think a redshirt year would have really benefited him, agree?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:02 Smitty, Tempe
12:06
sbtnoie: 
Smitty:

Getting big minutes at Boston College? Probably, because if that wasn't the case, then the transfer would be a mistake. Dragicevich averaged 20 minutes a game last season, and he felt he could play more. When you transfer, not only are you doing so to start fresh, but you're going after the "sure thing." If it doesn't work out, you can't pack up and leave again, so whatever school you choose, you better be completely sure it's going to meet your needs.

Dragicevich is a good fit for coach Steve Donahue's system. Boston College may not be very good the next couple years, but Dragicevich can be a competent third guard. He wants to use his transfer year to get stronger, quicker and become a better rebounder.

Dragicevich toyed with the option of sitting out a season at Notre Dame, and might have benefited from it. But it still wasn't going to do much about the log-jam at the wing spot.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:06 sbtnoie
12:09
[Comment From Joe (MD)Joe (MD): ] 
Any chance that Nic Moore (Warsaw HS) is going to end up transferring to ND?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:09 Joe (MD)
12:12
sbtnoie: 
Joe:

There's always a chance it works out, but Marian High School guard Demetrius Jackson has a better chance of playing for Notre Dame right now than does Nic Moore.

It would make a good story - area kid comes back and steps into a big role for Notre Dame. But for now, it's a non-story, and that may not change. There's interest from both sides, but on a scale of 1 to 10, you might put it at a 4.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:12 sbtnoie
12:14
[Comment From PhilPhil: ] 
I know basketball means very little in the conference decisions at ND, but would b-ball be better off in the ACC should Notre Dame decide to go that route?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:14 Phil
12:17
sbtnoie: 
Phil:

Yes, yes and yes. Anything other than the Atlantic Coast Conference - should the Big East no longer be an option - and the Irish would be starting over from scratch.

If Notre Dame lands in the Big Ten or the Big 12, Mike Brey will be sitting on the beach back at his summer home in Rehoboth than planning to coach the Irish. I can't see him wanting to start over at his age. Notre Dame's footprint is buried along the East Coast. To jump anywhere away from that would gut the program.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:17 sbtnoie
12:17
[Comment From Jack From GrangerJack From Granger: ] 
Can ND win 30 games next year? All five starters are coming back.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:17 Jack From Granger
12:20
sbtnoie: 
Jack:

Thirty wins seems awfully optimistic given that the Irish will have to do something it hasn't been able to do in past seasons - play with and thrive under heavy expectations.

I'd rather the Irish win 25 games if it meant going deeper in the NCAA tournament. It's hard to put a number on how many wins would classify a successful season. It's easier to do in terms of the NCAA tournament.

Want next season to be a success? Win two games in March when it really matters. That will mean a heck of a lot more than chasing the all-time school record for wins.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:20 sbtnoie
12:20
[Comment From RonnieRonnie: ] 
I saw some videos of Steve Vasturia on utube and some of the comments posted were, "range of days" or "the next Jimmer" Is Vasturia on the level of Jimmer or are those comments probably posted by friends or family members?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:20 Ronnie
12:22
sbtnoie: 
Ronnie:

Probably a little of both - and remember, he's doing it in high school. I tend to take the cautious approach when evaluating any kid that's going to wear a Notre Dame uniform.

Remember, the expectations were enormous for former Irish power forward Luke Zeller - and minimal for former Irish power forward Luke Harangody. Who had the better collegiate career? Nobody would have guessed that when both were coming out of high school.

Vasturia is a talent, but let's see what he can do against Big East-caliber competition before firing up the Jimmer comparisons.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:22 sbtnoie
12:23
[Comment From WillWill: ] 
I would love to see more Hoosiers on the Notre Dame roster. Does Brey have any interest in Devin Cannady (Marian HS) , Mack Mercer (Plymouth) , Aaron Brenann (Noblesville) or Tyler Wideman (St. John) . Also, why is it so hard for Brey to connect with Indiana kids?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:23 Will
12:25
sbtnoie: 
Will:

What about Luke Harangody? Luke Zeller? Scott Martin? Chris Thomas? Austin Burgett coming in this fall? Mike Brey's not going to solely recruit Indiana kids, and Indiana kids aren't always exactly thrilled with the possibility of playing in the Big East if they can play in the Big Ten and stay close to home.

Notre Dame has recruiting its share of Indiana kids, and for the most part has signed the kids they've targeted. Irish coaches have scouted the Cannadys and the Mercers of northern Indiana. If they decide those kids are fits, then they'll turn up the intensity of the recruiting.

But get an Indiana kid just because he's an Indiana kid? That wouldn't work out well.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:25 sbtnoie
12:26
[Comment From RobbRobb: ] 
Tom, Do you think the longer and longer he waits, that Demetrius Jackson is going to go somewhere else other than Notre Dame? Do you think Brey can seal the deal with young Mr. Jackson?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:26 Robb
12:30
sbtnoie: 
Robb:

Recruiting is such a wacky racket. Think about it - people sometimes get more caught up in what's going on in the head of a high school junior than how the current guys on their favorite team are faring. It's really a bizzare world, and one I'm glad I don't have to visit too often. You have people two and three times the ages of these kids waiting breathlessly for them to make a decision.

Demetrius Jackson has always held his recruiting cards close to his recruiting vest. He never came out when he was a freshman or sophomore and declared that it was his lifelong dream to attend Notre Dame. Or any other school.

The fact that he's prolonged this process likely doesn't harm or hurt Notre Dame and any other school on his final wish list. You get the impression that he enjoys it - that he wants to be wanted.

Notre Dame has done all it could to make Jackson feel wanted. If at the end of the recruiting day Jackson seeks something else, so be it.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:30 sbtnoie
12:31
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
TN, I hope you're well. Who is "Nic Moore" and where does he currently play?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:31 Slide_Piece
12:33
sbtnoie: 
Slide:

All is well and good to hear from you. Nic Moore is a 58, 5-9 guard who played at Warsaw High School, about 90 minutes from Notre Dame. He signed with Illinois State and played well this past year - as a freshman - in the Missouri Valley.

When Tim Jankovich left ISU to become the coach in waiting at Southern Methodist, Moore announced plans to transfer. He'll look at Notre Dame, but I don't know how realistic it is that he ultimately sign with the Irish.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:33 sbtnoie
12:34
[Comment From PaulPaul: ] 
Boston Celtic coach Doc Rivers has a point guard playing son (class of 2014) named Spencer. Have you heard anything about his game? Since Doc's 2 older sons played D1 ball, maybe he has a third in Spencer. SInce the Irish need a point guard, do you think he is on Breys radar?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:34 Paul
12:35
sbtnoie: 
Paul:

Maybe somehwere down the line, but the day I start tracking kids who are sophomores and might be potential fits is the day I turn in my laptop and take a desk job somewhere.

Way, way too early to start wondering about prep sophomores. He could be a good one, like his older brother, Austin, or he could be like his other older brother in Jeremiah.

Let's revisit the topic in say, a year and a half or so. Deal?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:35 sbtnoie
12:35
[Comment From DiggerDigger: ] 
It seems that you are getting tired and irritated from all the Demetrius Jackson questions.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:35 Digger
12:37
sbtnoie: 
Digger:

Not at all. Get them every week. People want to know the latest - but there really is no latest. Teenagers will change their minds five, six times a day on the most mundane topics. I suspect Jackson goes back and forth as well - Michigan State....then Notre Dame......maybe Florida State......boy, would it be nice if Kentucky called.....wonder if I can play at Duke.

It's just the way of the recruiting world. They're talents, but they're also kids.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:37 sbtnoie
12:38
[Comment From RodneyRodney: ] 
I have been hearing all of the Nic Moore hype the last couple of days. Could you please talk a little about the difference in talent between the Big East and the Missouri Valley. Scoring 20 against Evansville will not prepare you for Syracuse, Gtown or Louisville. Do you agree?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:38 Rodney
12:40
sbtnoie: 
Rodney:

Let's slow the down the Nic Moore express train to South Bend. It's likely not going to happen for the reasons you mentioned above. Nic Moore getting 20 in a Valley game is a whole lot different than going for 20 against Louisville or Connecticut.

He's a 5-9 guard (likely closer to 5-8) who seems to be a scorer first, a point guard second. Don't know if he fits the profile of what Mike Brey wants in his guards.

If the hype quickens over Nic Moore's supposed interest in the Irish, it means one thing - it's a slow news day.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:40 sbtnoie
12:43
[Comment From SteveSteve: ] 
Do you think Demetrius Jackson can play at a high level in the SEC, Big Ten, ACC, or Big East? After seeing him on the front page of ESPN.com's High School page a few days ago, some are thinking he's the real deal. What's your take?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:43 Steve
12:44
sbtnoie: 
Steve:

He can play at any level, be it the Big East, the Big Ten.....he's good. Really good. Plays with a good pace, doesn't seem to ever be in a hurry.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:44 sbtnoie
12:44
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
Rodney, I am with you my friend. 5'8" / 5'9" guard from Warsaw!?!?! The greatest guard that ever came out of Warsaw (Kevin Ault) was a serviceable guard in the MVC. I was skeptical the minute I heard someone fawning on the myth of Warsaw basketball, specifically a 5'8" guard! Great call out.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:44 Slide_Piece
12:44
sbtnoie: 
There you go. Nic Moore is a solid player, but maybe just not in the Big East.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:44 sbtnoie
12:45
[Comment From BenBen: ] 
Tom, I remember back in the 80's when Kansas was recruiting Danny Manning, to seal the deal they offered his HS coach (his father) an assistant coach position. Michigan also did the same in the 90's with Jalen Rose. Maybe Brey should offer the Marian Coach, Robb Berger a job in order to secure Jackson and Devin Cannady. What do you think? I'm trying to think outside the box here!!!
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:45 Ben
12:47
sbtnoie: 
Ben:

Yeah, probably not. If Mike Brey is guilty of anything in terms of his recruiting it's that he refuses to do the dance you have to dance to get kids. That was one of the big drawbacks of why he didn't push for the Maryland job last year - he knows well the AAU scene back in the Washington area and he's simply not going to get involved in those handshakes and winks and back-room agreements just for the chance to talk to kids.

Robb Berger's not coming to Notre Dame anytime soon. Stay inside the box.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:47 sbtnoie
12:50
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
Gentleman Ben ... before there was Robb Berger .... there was BOB BERGER. Bob Berger is a certified HOF member of the table of wiseman from the SBCSC high school basketball coaching FRATERNITY (picture "The Wisemen" from the movie "Training Day"). Bob Berger has forgotten more basketball than you or I will ever grow to know.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:50 Slide_Piece
12:50
sbtnoie: 
Slide:

Good to see you've brought your 'A' game today.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:50 sbtnoie
12:51
[Comment From Ed,GreensboroEd,Greensboro: ] 
BBQ for lunch,beer at Natty's-so naturally I thought of you.I can't help but feel this season will be a defining one for Mike Brey and his program.Make a run in the N.C.A.A's and the mometum will be incredible. If not, it will be the "same old irish."Thoughts? Thanks for all you do.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:51 Ed,Greensboro
12:54
sbtnoie: 
Ed:

Good to hear from you - get some takeout from Stamey's for me, would you?

This coming season isn't a make-or-break out the For Sale sign on Mike Brey's home, but eventually, Notre Dame needs to go deeper into March. Winning at least 10 games in the Big East and challenging for the double-bye in the Big East Championship have solidified Notre Dame as one of the most stable, repsected, consistent programs in what many will argue has been the nation's premier basketball conferences.

But at some point, you have to take it from Point A to Point B and then to Point C. Brey has gone from A to B during his days in South Bend, but has been to C only once - 2003.

If not next year, or the following year for certain, than when? Ever?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:54 sbtnoie
12:58
[Comment From Ed,GreensboroEd,Greensboro: ] 
I'll look into the BBQ for you.Hush puppies too-right?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:58 Ed,Greensboro
12:58
sbtnoie: 
Hush puppies I'll pass on? But plenty of sauce and white bread to go!
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:58 sbtnoie
12:59
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
TN, I am very proud and delighted to see your tone shift to (paraphrasing) - It's high time we make a run we can all be proud of in March (starting with the B.E. tourney). These kids PLAY BASKEBTALL, being tired and worn down in the B.E. tournament is not an excuse. MAKE IT HAPPEN. EXCEED EXPECTATIONS. PLAY TO WIN! (Somehwere Richmond's coach lurks and bides his time). Go Irish. Expectations are high so get in great shape now!
Wednesday May 16, 2012 12:59 Slide_Piece
1:02
sbtnoie: 
Slide:

Tone's never really changed. Other than two years ago, with the Hansbrough team that ran into the buzzsaw that was Florida State, Notre Dame has had teams that weren't really ready to make runs in the NCAA tournaments.

That year's team was built for a deep run. I even traded words with Hansbrough after the loss to Florida State for questioning that, at the LEAST, why this team didn't get to the Sweet 16.

You couldn't always say that about past Notre Dame teams. They've run into teams in the NCAA tournament that have just been better, regardless of conference affiliation.

It's time for Notre Dame to be the better team into the second weekend the next couple years.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:02 sbtnoie
1:08
sbtnoie: 
The NCAA ruled last week that Scott Martin can return for a sixth season in 2012-13. What would you like to see Martin do better to help the Irish be better next season?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:08 sbtnoie
1:10
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
TN, the memory of the F$U abomination still causes me to sleepwalk at night and bash my head into dry wall. We will have to agree to disagree on that particular game. I saw a coach that day who was worse off than a deer in headlights. There were ZERO in-game adjustments once the trusty-dusty three pointers weren't falling. F$U was playing for blood that day and Brey was deciding which Chicago sandwich shop to order take out from midway through the 2nd half. That was an UGLY loss and one that I am still not over. My wife tells me that I still scream "MAKE an ADJUSTMENT!" in my sleep some nights.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:10 Slide_Piece
1:15
sbtnoie: 
Slide:

True, but remember what happened in the first few minutes of that game - Scott Martin suffered a serious back injury, Florida State did something it wasn't expected to do (hit 3-pointes) and it all threw everything out of whack.

Instead of leaning on Martin for 34 minutes for defense and rebounding, Notre Dame had to mix and match its rotation with guys like Joey Brooks.

Florida State was just better - long, athletic, physical. The Irish train that had chugged along to 27 wins and a 14-4 league mark ran out of steam.

I still contend that the 2011 NCAA tournament was lost not in the United Center that night against Florida State but back at Madison Square Garden during the Big East Championship semifinal loss to Louisville. Notre Dame was 20 minutes from playing for a league title for the first time in school history.

When the Cardinals roared back in overtime, they did more than take the game. They took the Irish heart. Notre Dame never was the same after that night. I remember walking out onto Seventh Avenue at around 1 a.m. after that game thinking, Man, it's going to be a short stay in the NCAA tournament.

Notre Dame was done.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:15 sbtnoie
1:18
[Comment From Slide_PieceSlide_Piece: ] 
Correction TN: Joey Brooks did not play in that game until mop up time. Losing Martin was a setback but F$U was "like a FATHER CHASTISING HIS SON" that day. It was embarassing.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:18 Slide_Piece
1:19
sbtnoie: 
True, but once the Seminoles hit those two 3s, one of which was banked in from the corner, I remember thinking , uh-oh, this one's going to get ugly.

It was over before halftime.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:19 sbtnoie
1:34
[Comment From KenKen: ] 
I watched the press conference with Coach Brey and Scott Martin and it seemed like Brey is very excited for the upcoming season. Did you get the sense that he has a hunger to do much more this season and do you think that will change the intensity with which he coaches? He seems to be a pretty laid back guy. Do you think he now feels an urgency that will translate in to how he coaches the team?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:34 Ken
1:38
sbtnoie: 
Ken:

I think he knows he's entering a two- to three-year stretch where Notre Dame could really do something in the Big East and in the NCAA tournament. Especially with the league a little down and Pittsburgh and Syracuse on their way out.

It's as close to a perfect storm as he's had here in South Bend in terms of the roster having depth and talent and a mix of young and old all at the same time.

He's also excited because it's May, when it's easy to get excited for hoops because the past season is far enough in the past and the grind of the next season has yet to begin with summer school and the evaluation period, etc.

He's fresh and focused now. Let's see if he's still that way in September and October when reality arrives and the expectations underscore that big things are expected of Notre Dame this year.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:38 sbtnoie
1:39
[Comment From BenBen: ] 
I take it your either very good friends with Bob Berger or your related to him. I don't know why else you won't share his career coaching stats with Slide Piece.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:39 Ben
1:40
sbtnoie: 
Ben:

Huh? I' ve been with the Tribune for 20 years and have had maybe two conversations with Bob Berger. Don't quite know what you're saying.

If you have his coaching stats, let's have them, though I don't know why that would be relevant to Notre Dame hoops talk.

And now, back to Irish hoops.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:40 sbtnoie
1:45
sbtnoie: 
Eric:

Pat Garrity definitely deserves to be among the next group of guys inducted to Notre Dame's Ring of Honor. He didn't play on many successful Irish teams, but nobody played harder every single night than Pat Garrity.

What he was able to do often with little or no help is nothing short of amazing. Guy was a gamer.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:45 sbtnoie
1:48
[Comment From SteveSteve: ] 
Is there a good possibility that Nic Moore from Illinois State lands at ND?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:48 Steve
1:49
sbtnoie: 
Steve:

No. For a more complete answer, look above. That topic was covered earlier. I just don't see it working out for all involved. There may be initial interest, but after that, he's a 5-9 guard who's score first and second, pass a distant third.

Don't think he fits what the Irish need.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:49 sbtnoie
1:51
[Comment From Scott (Mishawaka)Scott (Mishawaka): ] 
Do you expect Brey to get an extension this summer?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:51 Scott (Mishawaka)
1:52
sbtnoie: 
Scott:

The extension is there and waiting to be signed. It would be nice if it were finalized, but he does have a few years left on his current deal. It's not like he's entering the option year of his contract and has to win to save his job.

It will get done. It's just a matter of when - kind of like the Scott Martin situation. There is no hurry, so no worry.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:52 sbtnoie
1:59
[Comment From Jim Tal, Valley CenterJim Tal, Valley Center: ] 
Tom, Always look forward to these chats. Great info always dispensed. My question concerns the the incoming freshman. If you had to guess right now and given the depth of the current roster, how many of the frosh do you think will seek to preserve a year of eligibility and red-shirt in 2012-13?
Wednesday May 16, 2012 1:59 Jim Tal, Valley Center
2:02
sbtnoie: 
Jim:

Good to hear from you. Mike Brey said this week that he expects two of the three freshmen (he didn't name them, but didn't have to - Zach Auguste and Cameron Biedscheid) jump immediately into the mix for playing time. Both will get that chance.

The third, Austin Burgett, may sit out the season to preserve a year of eligibility if it's clear that it will be difficult to get minutes. But if he arrives on campus next month and proves he can make the adjustment, the rotation really gets interesting.

Stay tuned.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:02 sbtnoie
2:02
[Comment From Irish fan from Irish landIrish fan from Irish land: ] 
Greetings Tom! Thanks for the great article this past week in the paper: “where are they now?” I couldn’t help thinking after reviewing the article that there was very little success at the next level when it comes to former top players. Then I thought how great of a coach M. Brey must be considering how low of a talent level he has had to work with. Any chance we start landing some top talent? Ex. Muffet McGraw just landed the no. 4 player overall. I have been a huge fan of M. Brey; I feel he always over achieves with the talent that he has to work with. When and/or will top talent ever recognize that? Or is the reality of it- top talent will never come to a school that focuses on an education first? Last comment I’m slightly concerned that some of the quotes I have heard have sounded more like putting a limit on next year. Such as: “we should make the sweet 16 next year”- why not saying things like I don’t see any reason why we can’t be one of the last 4 teams competing for the title? Thanks Tom keep up the great coverage.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:02 Irish fan from Irish land
2:05
sbtnoie: 
Irish:

Thanks for the note - Mike Brey has never said, and will never say, boy if we can just get to the Sweet 16......he's always talked of dreaming big dreams - that means chasing the Big East championship and making a deep run through the NCAA.

No coach ever, ever, ever should be a ceiling on what his team is capable of doing. Privately, Brey may wonder if his team will have the horses to go this far or that far, but he's never going to verbalize that publicly.

As for the first part of your question, the top-tier talent is very rarely going to look at Notre Dame in men's hoops. Too many other options out there where they don't have to concentrate on academics. Not the case in the women's game, where Notre Dame is one of only a handful of "elite" programs that can challenge for the Final Four.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:05 sbtnoie
2:06
[Comment From Dan, Fremont, INDan, Fremont, IN: ] 
Do you think Garrick Sherman's performance in practice was part of the writing on the wall for Alex.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:06 Dan, Fremont, IN
2:08
sbtnoie: 
Dan:

Not really, but it would have been a factor. Given what Garrick Sherman can offer next season, Mike Brey is anxious to play him at the same time as Jack Cooley, which cuts into the minutes of others in the rotation.

Alex Dragicevich saw that Eric Atkins and Jerian Grant were locked in at the starting guard spots where they will play 34-38 minutes a game. Pat Connaughton wrestled his starting spot away from him this year and Cameron Biedscheid is coming quickly. Dragicevich feared this year would be as good as it would get.

He may have been right.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:08 sbtnoie
2:35
sbtnoie: 
Thanks for all who participated in this week's chat. Stop back around same day (Wednesday) and same time (noon) next week for more Notre Dame hoops chatter. if you have a question or comment that cannot wait, drop me an e-mail at tnoie@schurz.com" target="_blank" >tnoie@schurz.com.

Take care and have a great rest of the week.
Wednesday May 16, 2012 2:35 sbtnoie
2:35
 

 
 
 





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