Some tidbits…
Firstly, after investigating the Lance Thomas jewelry situation, “The NCAA has found no evidence of a rules violation in this situation based on the information available, and both the NCAA and Duke consider the matter closed.” A settlement was reached in the case between Thomas and the jeweler details of which are not being made public so surely the conspiracy theorists will be out and about as usual but, well, nothing to see here folks. Sorry to disappoint.
Regarding next years schedule, it was announced that Duke will play in next season’s NIT Season Tip-Off at Madison Square Garden during Thanksgiving weekend, we know Arizona, Alabama and Rutgers will be involved and more will be announced shortly. Also Duke will play Kansas Nov. 12 at the United Center in Chicago in the third annual Champions Classic.
Most have heard but officially Jon Scheyer has joined the Duke staff as a special assistant replacing the promoted Nate James, who is replacing the departed Chris Collins (NW).
Duke & Nolan Smith fans alike are excited to see where Nolan Smith will end up. Nolan is a free agent and with guard play always at a premium he should have no problem landing in a much more ideal spot. Here is an article by Laura Keeley on Smith and his excitement at a brand new start.
Good news for the Devils Simeon Career Academy senior Jabari Parker officially signed his national letter of intent to play basketball at Duke University, the Duke coaching staff announced: “We’re excited for Jabari and his family to join our family here at Duke,” Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski said. “We are confident he will have a great career, and we are glad to have him in our program.”
Because Parkers decision came after the conclusion of the fall signing period he had to wait until spring signing period to officially sign.
Very interesting reflections on the season from Coach K and a little on next years team.
Duke fans will get a treat once Rodney Hood suits up for Duke next season. DukeBluePlanet has a Hoods own words on the difficulties of waiting his turn and what to expect next year. Andy Katz also caught up with Hood for a phone interview.
One the horizon…
Expect decision from transfer F/C Tarik Black (Memphis). Duke and Ohio State are in the running but Oregon has made a late push and some consider them the leader although no announcements or interviews have occurred or been scheduled.
