Spoke to Jerry after he attended the practice Thursday. Jerry got a lot of stuff, much that he will incorporate into his USA Today article coming out mid Oct. And some that cannot be shared pending future events. But here are some of his thoughts that did not make in the article from his twitter page yesterday....
1. Powell is on another level. Jerry could not have been more impressed with his overall play. As good as the roster is, and he believes it's very good, Powell is just on another level.
2. Staying with that thought, Jerry is convinced that Powell's comments about team first even if it (to a degree) hinders his NBA prospects was more than just lip service.
3. Was really impressed with Obiagu and Samuel. Their athleticism is off the charts. Consistency will be the key and understanding what KW wants from them in a team concept. Noted that Obiagu blocked 3 shots in halfcourt drills that actually were hammered off the walls of the gym.
4. Was disappointed that Rhoden did not play through contact because he was told that Rhoden is playing as well as anyone on the team not named Myles Powell.
5. This I was told by both Jerry and someone else who has access to the program last week. The staff believes they are going to be REALLY good, but if Rhoden and Nelson play as they have been playing to date then they could surpass preseason expectations.
6. Jerry raved about Molson. Had no idea what to expect and came away very impressed. Called him a junk yard dog and a perfect Kevin Willard player.
7. There were a few negatives as there always are as I don't want you to minimize Jerry's comments above by thinking they are Rothstein like, but that will remain between he and I.
Overall, Jerry came away very impressed with the overall talent of the team and the demeanor in which Kevin Willard displayed in practice. No nonsense. He was tough on the players which isn't always the case when Willard has visitors in practice.
1. Powell is on another level. Jerry could not have been more impressed with his overall play. As good as the roster is, and he believes it's very good, Powell is just on another level.
2. Staying with that thought, Jerry is convinced that Powell's comments about team first even if it (to a degree) hinders his NBA prospects was more than just lip service.
3. Was really impressed with Obiagu and Samuel. Their athleticism is off the charts. Consistency will be the key and understanding what KW wants from them in a team concept. Noted that Obiagu blocked 3 shots in halfcourt drills that actually were hammered off the walls of the gym.
4. Was disappointed that Rhoden did not play through contact because he was told that Rhoden is playing as well as anyone on the team not named Myles Powell.
5. This I was told by both Jerry and someone else who has access to the program last week. The staff believes they are going to be REALLY good, but if Rhoden and Nelson play as they have been playing to date then they could surpass preseason expectations.
6. Jerry raved about Molson. Had no idea what to expect and came away very impressed. Called him a junk yard dog and a perfect Kevin Willard player.
7. There were a few negatives as there always are as I don't want you to minimize Jerry's comments above by thinking they are Rothstein like, but that will remain between he and I.
Overall, Jerry came away very impressed with the overall talent of the team and the demeanor in which Kevin Willard displayed in practice. No nonsense. He was tough on the players which isn't always the case when Willard has visitors in practice.
