Self appears to be a no nonsense recruiter. He does not sweet talk the kids and tell them everything they want to hear. They are going to have to play defense, they are not guaranteed to start, etc. I think this possibly turns off some prima donna OADs. The kids that know they are going league after one year, don't see the value in improving their skills, and want to be rock stars may not warm to Self.
However, we are going to get some OADs that are more grounded and see the value of development and teamwork. I think Wiggins and Oubre are good examples. The biggest challenge becomes our situation this year, the elite OADs tend to drag out the process and by the time the all star games are over the plan B's and plan C's are already committed elsewhere.
We may see things change where we are going to take a player or two in the early signing period regardless, get the best we can at that time and only carry one or two spots late for the elite players. As the elite players become locks to leave after one year, their value is diminished regardless of how good they are for that one year. The Alexander situation may impact how we view things moving forward.
The recruiting game is tough on coaches, but I think the OAD game for the elite programs is that much more aggravating. Losing two one-year players a year means you are constantly having to reload with little room for error.
However, we are going to get some OADs that are more grounded and see the value of development and teamwork. I think Wiggins and Oubre are good examples. The biggest challenge becomes our situation this year, the elite OADs tend to drag out the process and by the time the all star games are over the plan B's and plan C's are already committed elsewhere.
We may see things change where we are going to take a player or two in the early signing period regardless, get the best we can at that time and only carry one or two spots late for the elite players. As the elite players become locks to leave after one year, their value is diminished regardless of how good they are for that one year. The Alexander situation may impact how we view things moving forward.
The recruiting game is tough on coaches, but I think the OAD game for the elite programs is that much more aggravating. Losing two one-year players a year means you are constantly having to reload with little room for error.
