He is good. Needs his own thread like Bryce, Ryan, and Alec have.
Quote from: tiny707 on February 06, 2019, 07:14:53 PM
He is good. Needs his own thread like Bryce, Ryan, and Alec have.
[emoji106][emoji459][emoji91]
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G920A using Tapatalk
:lol: pump the brakes
Little doubt he gets there, but these guys are all timers who got their own threads when they went pro.
This kid is talented and i'm thinking we will see him in the top ten lists for a few different statistics.
Go V.U. !!!
Quote from: M on February 06, 2019, 08:20:54 PM
:lol: pump the brakes
Little doubt he gets there, but these guys are all timers who got their own threads when they went pro.
I don't recall if Alec had his own thread as a freshman, but he definitely had an "Alec Peters Sophomore Edition" thread (and Junior, Senior editions).
You are correct, my apologies
I wonder how Javon's freshmen stats compare so far to Bryce's and Alec's freshmen stats
Alec was just under 13ppg playing 29 mpg. I didn't look for Bryce's numbers.
Quote from: valpolaw on February 06, 2019, 09:32:55 PM
I wonder how Javon's freshmen stats compare so far to Bryce's and Alec's freshmen stats
Javon Freeman: https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/javon-freeman-1.html
Alec Peters: https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/alec-peters-1.html
Ryan Broekhoff: https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/ryan-broekhoff-1.html
Bryce Drew: https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/bryce-drew-1.html
https://twitter.com/AlBillets/status/1091809954359582720
It is extremely interesting how you guys are willing to quibble over whether a player should be "honored" enough to get his own thread but at the same time can't be bothered enough to "honor" the same player by spelling his name correctly.
Quote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 05:35:55 AM
It is extremely interesting how you guys are willing to quibble over whether a player should be "honored" enough to get his own thread but at the same time can't be bothered enough to "honor" the same player by spelling his name correctly.
False premise A false premise is an incorrect proposition that forms the basis of an argument or syllogism. Since the premise is not correct, the conclusion drawn may be in error.
Quote from: wh on February 07, 2019, 11:58:25 AM
Quote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 05:35:55 AM
It is extremely interesting how you guys are willing to quibble over whether a player should be "honored" enough to get his own thread but at the same time can't be bothered enough to "honor" the same player by spelling his name correctly.
False premise
A false premise is an incorrect proposition that forms the basis of an argument or syllogism. Since the premise is not correct, the conclusion drawn may be in error.
I am in total agreement with bdtbs.
Quote from: justducky on February 07, 2019, 12:15:33 PM
Quote from: wh on February 07, 2019, 11:58:25 AM
Quote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 05:35:55 AM
It is extremely interesting how you guys are willing to quibble over whether a player should be "honored" enough to get his own thread but at the same time can't be bothered enough to "honor" the same player by spelling his name correctly.
False premise
A false premise is an incorrect proposition that forms the basis of an argument or syllogism. Since the premise is not correct, the conclusion drawn may be in error.
I am in total agreement with bdtbs.
:rotfl:
At this point Javon, playing about 4.5 minutes more per game, has slightly better stats than Tevonn had his freshman year. https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/tevonn-walker-1.html (https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/tevonn-walker-1.html)
Quote from: FWalum on February 07, 2019, 01:46:02 PM
At this point Javon, playing about 4.5 minutes more per game, has slightly better stats than Tevonn had his freshman year. https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/tevonn-walker-1.html (https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/tevonn-walker-1.html)
I think Tevonn is a better comp for Javon, because of positions. Javon has well exceeded expectations for me personally. He's only going to get better
Far and away, the 3 best Freshmen in the MVC statistically are Javon, Green from N. Iowa, and Wilkins from Drake (hope I'm not forgetting anyone). Right now, Javon is the clear statistical leader over either of the other 2 and would be the shoe-in Freshman-of-the-Year if conference play ended today (assuming an honest process and voters with integrity, of course).
Javon is ranked 1st (best) in 6 of 10 statistical categories: Rebounds, FG%, Blocks, Steals, Fouls, TO's
Green is ranked 1st (best) in 2 of 10 statistical categories: Points and FT%
Wilkins is ranked 1st (best) in 2 of 10 statistical categories: Assists, 3FG%
By the way, Javon is 2nd in PPG with 11.0. Green is averaging 15.0 and Wilkins 10.8. I note that because it's about as deep as some people think (not on this board) when comparing players.
Quote from: wh on February 07, 2019, 03:26:41 PM
Far and away, the 3 best Freshmen in the MVC statistically are Javon, Green from N. Iowa, and Wilkins from Drake (hope I'm not forgetting anyone). Right now, Javon is the clear statistical leader over either of the other 2 and would be the shoe-in Freshman-of-the-Year if conference play ended today (assuming an honest process and voters with integrity, of course).
Javon is ranked 1st (best) in 6 of 10 statistical categories: Rebounds, FG%, Blocks, Steals, Fouls, TO's
Green is ranked 1st (best) in 2 of 10 statistical categories: Points and FT%
Wilkins is ranked 1st (best) in 2 of 10 statistical categories: Assists, 3FG%
By the way, Javon is 2nd in PPG with 11.0. Green is averaging 15.0 and Wilkins 10.8. I note that because it's about as deep as some people think (not on this board) when comparing players.
Good points made. Javon is a game changer with his defense, especially with steals that often lead to easy baskets for him or others. Also, number of fouls committed is often overlooked in these types of comparisons.
More details from the MVC statistical leader board.
Freeman leads the conference in steals with 42 and is pulling away from the competition. Green with 13.
He is 20'th in rebounds at 4.5 per game. Green 45'th at 3 per.
FG% Green 40% Freeman 47.4% 3 point% Green 33.8 Freeman 30.4%
A/T Freeman 53-37 for 1.432. Green 50-67 for 0.746 :o That is a BAD number for any guard, anywhere! For context Lavender is still 3'rd in the league at 2.12. Bakari has been sloppy but still shows a 1.239 and Krutwig has an astonishing 1.318. :bowdown: Our bigs are likely both below 0.50. >:(
So 29 more steals---30 fewer turn overs with 3 more assists--- and 1.5 more rebounds per game. Wow!!!!! That is a lot of extra possessions.
Quote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 05:35:55 AM
It is extremely interesting how you guys are willing to quibble over whether a player should be "honored" enough to get his own thread but at the same time can't be bothered enough to "honor" the same player by spelling his name correctly.
Have you ever considered tabulating the number of hours and or calories you've wasted by correcting grammar or spelling in your life? That being said, I'm looking forward to you correcting me for years to come 🍻🍻🍻
Here's another category I should have included that clearly shows that Javon is far more versatile offensively than the other 2 guards:
2-pt. FG Pct.
78 of 140 .557 Javon
74 of 161 .460 Green
34 of 90 .378 Wilkins
•Green has 4 fewer baskets in 21 more attempts.
•Wilkins 2-pt. percentage is really bad. At .378, it would take 206 shots to match what Javon did in 140 attempts. Essentially, Wilkins is a 3-point specialist.
•Javon's 2-pt. pct. is so good that he may be the most proficient guard in the league inside the 3-pt. line.
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on February 07, 2019, 07:11:54 PM
Quote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 05:35:55 AM
It is extremely interesting how you guys are willing to quibble over whether a player should be "honored" enough to get his own thread but at the same time can't be bothered enough to "honor" the same player by spelling his name correctly.
Have you ever considered tabulating the number of hours and or calories you've wasted by correcting grammar or spelling in your life? That being said, I'm looking forward to you correcting me for years to come 🍻🍻🍻
It's become obvious that spelling our players names and people's names in general correctly on this board is not popular and it does no good to provoke the angry mob. I will no longer speak to the spelling on this board.
Quote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 08:02:54 PMQuote from: FieldGoodie05 on February 07, 2019, 07:11:54 PMQuote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 05:35:55 AMIt is extremely interesting how you guys are willing to quibble over whether a player should be "honored" enough to get his own thread but at the same time can't be bothered enough to "honor" the same player by spelling his name correctly.
Have you ever considered tabulating the number of hours and or calories you've wasted by correcting grammar or spelling in your life? That being said, I'm looking forward to you correcting me for years to come 🍻🍻🍻
It's become obvious that spelling our players names and people's names in general correctly on this board is not popular and it does no good to provoke the angry mob. I will no longer speak to the spelling on this board.
Is there a board where grammatical and spelling corrections are popular? If so, I need to take a look at it because that is most assuredly a "fun" crowd.
Quote from: JD24 on February 07, 2019, 10:36:48 PM
Quote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 08:02:54 PMQuote from: FieldGoodie05 on February 07, 2019, 07:11:54 PMQuote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 05:35:55 AMIt is extremely interesting how you guys are willing to quibble over whether a player should be "honored" enough to get his own thread but at the same time can't be bothered enough to "honor" the same player by spelling his name correctly.
Have you ever considered tabulating the number of hours and or calories you've wasted by correcting grammar or spelling in your life? That being said, I'm looking forward to you correcting me for years to come 🍻🍻🍻
It's become obvious that spelling our players names and people's names in general correctly on this board is not popular and it does no good to provoke the angry mob. I will no longer speak to the spelling on this board.
Is there a board where grammatical and spelling corrections are popular? If so, I need to take a look at it because that is most assuredly a "fun" crowd.
Private School Teachers Chatboard – Teachers.Nethttps://teachers.net/mentors/private/
Private School resources, Private School chat, Private School lesson plans, Private School jobs. Bookmark Teachers.Net and tell a friend!
Quote from: bbtds on February 08, 2019, 12:21:50 AM
Quote from: JD24 on February 07, 2019, 10:36:48 PM
Quote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 08:02:54 PMQuote from: FieldGoodie05 on February 07, 2019, 07:11:54 PMQuote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 05:35:55 AMIt is extremely interesting how you guys are willing to quibble over whether a player should be "honored" enough to get his own thread but at the same time can't be bothered enough to "honor" the same player by spelling his name correctly.
Have you ever considered tabulating the number of hours and or calories you've wasted by correcting grammar or spelling in your life? That being said, I'm looking forward to you correcting me for years to come 🍻🍻🍻
It's become obvious that spelling our players names and people's names in general correctly on this board is not popular and it does no good to provoke the angry mob. I will no longer speak to the spelling on this board.
Is there a board where grammatical and spelling corrections are popular? If so, I need to take a look at it because that is most assuredly a "fun" crowd.
Private School Teachers Chatboard – Teachers.Net
https://teachers.net/mentors/private/
Private School resources, Private School chat, Private School lesson plans, Private School jobs. Bookmark Teachers.Net and tell a friend!
Absolutely priceless. :rotfl:
Quote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 08:02:54 PM
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on February 07, 2019, 07:11:54 PM
Quote from: bbtds on February 07, 2019, 05:35:55 AM
It is extremely interesting how you guys are willing to quibble over whether a player should be "honored" enough to get his own thread but at the same time can't be bothered enough to "honor" the same player by spelling his name correctly.
Have you ever considered tabulating the number of hours and or calories you've wasted by correcting grammar or spelling in your life? That being said, I'm looking forward to you correcting me for years to come 🍻🍻🍻
It's become obvious that spelling our players names and people's names in general correctly on this board is not popular and it does no good to provoke the angry mob. I will no longer speak to the spelling on this board.
By the way bbtds, it's players' names, not players names. It could have been "spelling player names." But once it became the possessive with "our," it required the apostrophe. Sorry couldn't resist. 8-)
Quote from: bbtds on February 08, 2019, 12:21:50 AMQuote from: JD24 on February 07, 2019, 10:36:48 PMIs there a board where grammatical and spelling corrections are popular? If so, I need to take a look at it because that is most assuredly a "fun" crowd.
Private School Teachers Chatboard – Teachers.Net https://teachers.net/mentors/private/ Private School resources, Private School chat, Private School lesson plans, Private School jobs. Bookmark Teachers.Net and tell a friend!
LOL!
aka The Fun Bunch!
Impressive debates of grammar and spelling among the posters. That should not surprise our alumni .
As John Lithgow said at the Valpo event in 2009, "Harvard considers itself the Valparaiso of the northeast." :) :thumbsup:
[tweet]1095068219663179776[/tweet]
Ever notice how Javon has a likeness to a pretty good player from the past?
(https://media.gettyimages.com/photos/kobe-bryant-during-3rd-annual-runway-for-life-benefiting-st-jude-picture-id107296252)
http://cdn.streamlinetechnologies.com/valpoathletics/746AD519-68D9-4777-8ADD-AEA7EF47246E/20768L.jpg
You're not trying to say that Liberty and Bryant had more than just an NBA court in common, are you?
Quote from: bbtds on February 12, 2019, 04:56:43 AM
You're not trying to say that Liberty and Bryant had more than just an NBA court in common, are you?
Certainly not! Just both good looking dudes!
Ok, now we're getting this rivalry thing started.
https://twitter.com/PortersJacket/status/1095315610567880705
Really like the last line of that video "Valparaiso back on top"!
Quote from: FWalum on February 12, 2019, 09:56:48 AM
Really like the last line of that video "Valparaiso back on top"!
Agreed. Let's make that a conference wide sentiment and even spread that throughout the NCAA. Javon is the right man to take us there. I love his game.
What's everyone's thoughts about a freshmen wall? Our two young guns have been leaned on quite a bit.
It's been a concern of mine for awhile and I fear we may have seen it on Wednesday night.
No freshman wall. Don't buy it. Excuse.
They're both going to be fine. Both good players.
I think Javon will be fine. I think it was just a off game. I think we'll see him comeback strong tomorrow. Sackey was actually pretty good in stretches on Wednesday, beside missing some big free throws.
Javon may have been taught a lesson in the last game that could help him in the future. That is to adjust his play to the way the game is being called. Clearly whatever he was doing in previous games on defense was getting called as fouls in this one. Unless these refs were just out to lunch on their calls, and I defer to the basketball minds on that, he is too important to the team not to adjust his defense so that he stays in the game. I would hope we know referee tendencies and can prepare for the type of game they call, but I don't know. And whining about the calls after the fact like some players do gets you nothing. Getting on the refs is the coaches job, not the players.
Quote from: VU2010 on February 15, 2019, 08:50:55 PM
No freshman wall. Don't buy it. Excuse.
They're both going to be fine. Both good players.
It's real if you played high level sports. The level of workout and rest is more finally tuned at their level. I'm not certain that there is much time for workouts in the heart of the season so their "base" from the pre-season is important. If you're a freshman, that base/core is hard to establish in 8-weeks.
But more than anything, very few high school seniors are mentally prepared for the grind of a 30+ game season with extensive travel combined with hitting the books for the first time in their lives (many).
It's real, both mental and physical.
I don't think Javonn hits a wall as much as he had a Loyola hangover. He poured himself into that game and then they lost in the last 5 minutes. He probably physically and emotionally exhausted himself a bit and that led to some sloppy play. It's a good lesson on bouncing back and how to manage in the future when he's the focal point of the team.
I was more curious if people thought this existed. With year round AAU kids are playing way more then ever before. I suppose the physicality of college level ball could wear them down a bit.
He has definitely been our cornerstone in terms of minutes played. The physical wear and tear from bigger college players is likely a real factor.
But it's hard for me to believe that a slim 18-year old kid who moves so smoothly would wear out in terms of endurance. He is a huge catalyst on offense whether he is taking the shot or not.
Quote from: crusadermoe on February 16, 2019, 09:41:48 AM
He has definitely been our cornerstone in terms of minutes played. The physical wear and tear from bigger college players is likely a real factor.
But it's hard for me to believe that a slim 18-year old kid who moves so smoothly would wear out in terms of endurance. He is a huge catalyst on offense whether he is taking the shot or not.
From experience it's as much or more mental. The crunch of travel and academics combined with 4-hour practices/lifting took a toll on many student athletes during our time. But he sure does make it look easy!!!
I'd also imagine coming from a team that won a lot it's hard to go from top of the game to middle of the pack. Struggling takes different kind of mental toughness and competitiveness than winning does.
Do not be fooled, Div 1 MBB is MUCH tougher both mentally and physically than one's senior year in HS. The way it shows as the season progresses is through inconsistent play. Every game at this level is a grind...no easy games, much more physical play and the competition is tough every night. You can not relax on offense or defense. There is no question that our frosh guards are starting to show as little fatigue. You can see in the lapses in their games whether it be ball handling, shooting, rebounding, defense orand even sometimes hustle. That's the way it is when you are freshman getting in that many minutes. This is not a criticism but reality as I love our guys and look forward to seeing them improve each year forward.
I would like to invoke my phrase that I used before Javon arrived on campus. He is not the only guy who can save this program and is only an important cog in a wheel that will allow the team to be more successful and possibly win an NCAA tournament bid this year AND/OR next or more in the future.
LET JAVON BE JAVON!
He's looking a bit beat up and wore down the last few games. He draws a lot of contact and plays a ton of minutes. I think a full offseason of weight training is going to do him wonders moving forward.
He certainly drew a lot of contact on the flagrant foul!
Quote from: VUSL98 on February 20, 2019, 09:55:13 PM
He certainly drew a lot of contact on the flagrant foul!
He looked like a speed bump in front of a snow plow.
Grind out the next 2 games for W's and then rest the freshman and anybody else that needs a mental/physical refresher against Evansville. If we win the next 2 the last one won't matter. Just a thought... I mean, that would require 2 road wins in a row.... I mean, it is possible...
Hopefully we will find out...but I don't think they're going to sit anybody. These guys haven't played together enough. I would hope his minutes might come down a bit as the team gets healthier, but I don't know if they are actually going to get healthy until the season is over.
Quote from: SanityLost17 on February 21, 2019, 07:25:50 AM
Grind out the next 2 games for W's and then rest the freshman and anybody else that needs a mental/physical refresher against Evansville. If we win the next 2 the last one won't matter. Just a thought... I mean, that would require 2 road wins in a row.... I mean, it is possible...
We've been screwing with lineups from game-1 right up through and including last night. Injuries, recovery from injuries, attitude adjustments, older players starting then newer players starting, Mileek starting to Mileek not starting to Mileek not playing, Kiser not playing to Kiser playing to Kiser starting (rinse, repeat), players getting sick, more injuries, recovering injured/sick players less than 100%, injured players progressing, progressing nicely, losing streak line-up adjustments.
The freaking season is almost over and we're still trying to find a line-up that works! I can just see it now. We rest Javon and Daniel for the Evansville game, then lose our first tournament game, followed by postgame Matt saying "Apparently resting Javon and Daniel against Evansville had a carryover effect to tonight's game and threw us out of sync for the first 10 minutes or so, and that's probably the biggest reason why we were down 17 at that point. But I'm proud the way our guys fought back and even got the lead down to 3 at one point there." PLEASE, no line-up changes that we don't have to make, PLEASE!
2018-2019 MVC All Defensive Team and All Freshman Team.
Well deserved.
Quote from: wh on February 07, 2019, 03:26:41 PM
Far and away, the 3 best Freshmen in the MVC statistically are Javon, Green from N. Iowa, and Wilkins from Drake (hope I'm not forgetting anyone). Right now, Javon is the clear statistical leader over either of the other 2 and would be the shoe-in Freshman-of-the-Year if conference play ended today (assuming an honest process and voters with integrity, of course).
Javon is ranked 1st (best) in 6 of 10 statistical categories: Rebounds, FG%, Blocks, Steals, Fouls, TO's
Green is ranked 1st (best) in 2 of 10 statistical categories: Points and FT%
Wilkins is ranked 1st (best) in 2 of 10 statistical categories: Assists, 3FG%
By the way, Javon is 2nd in PPG with 11.0. Green is averaging 15.0 and Wilkins 10.8. I note that because it's about as deep as some people think (not on this board) when comparing players.
Green wins Freshman of the Year. I wonder if Valpo is still suffering from "new kid on the block syndrome" ... missing out on post-season awards because the old-school MVC voters aren't that familiar with Valpo?
Quote from: EddieCabot on March 05, 2019, 02:52:26 PM
Quote from: wh on February 07, 2019, 03:26:41 PM
Far and away, the 3 best Freshmen in the MVC statistically are Javon, Green from N. Iowa, and Wilkins from Drake (hope I'm not forgetting anyone). Right now, Javon is the clear statistical leader over either of the other 2 and would be the shoe-in Freshman-of-the-Year if conference play ended today (assuming an honest process and voters with integrity, of course).
Javon is ranked 1st (best) in 6 of 10 statistical categories: Rebounds, FG%, Blocks, Steals, Fouls, TO's
Green is ranked 1st (best) in 2 of 10 statistical categories: Points and FT%
Wilkins is ranked 1st (best) in 2 of 10 statistical categories: Assists, 3FG%
By the way, Javon is 2nd in PPG with 11.0. Green is averaging 15.0 and Wilkins 10.8. I note that because it's about as deep as some people think (not on this board) when comparing players.
Green wins Freshman of the Year. I wonder if Valpo is still suffering from "new kid on the block syndrome" ... missing out on post-season awards because the old-school MVC voters aren't that familiar with Valpo?
A month ago I would have been upset but Javon didn't finish strong and without checking I'd guess that the case for Green looks much better today than then. If somebody wants to update all the numbers I'll take a second look but Green had a good case even before our team collapse.
I don't think there's any "new kid on the block syndrome". Javon got the award he deserved. Beyond that, the season has been a huge disappointment and we didn't deserve any other awards.
First Team All Conference 2020, All Defensive Team 2020, and one vote shy of DPOY 2020.
Javon cleared for the tourney but Nick is out.
https://www.nwitimes.com/sports/basketball/college/valparaiso-s-javon-freeman-liberty-cleared-for-mvc-tourney-named/article_d7d89338-f9d2-575b-9482-2ed8a7ed0f98.html#utm_source=nwitimes.com&utm_campaign=%2Fnewsletter-templates%2Fnews-alert&utm_medium=PostUp&utm_content=e0f70624f98c80330fdc36f64f3768b2ae53c8f2
I'm confused why we are announcing who is available and who is not 48 hours in advance at tourney time. Dont give the other teams any extra time to prepare for who is actually going to be playing for us.
In the article it reads as if Lottich was being more cagey and Javon himself was like "yeah i'm playing" so a bit either of a miscommunication or the player not thinking it through before he said something
Quote from: elephtheria47 on March 04, 2020, 07:54:07 AM
I'm confused why we are announcing who is available and who is not 48 hours in advance at tourney time. Dont give the other teams any extra time to prepare for who is actually going to be playing for us.
I agree with Crusader05, I think Javon was honest and Lottich probably didn't want to announce but then had to (as per usual, don't give away game plan etc). Though consider that this is the conference tournament, may be different set of expectations for marketing reasons. Having a Top 3 MVP be a game-time decision could hurt attendance? Doubtful, but marketing is nothing if not over analytical.
Should (SHOULD) be able to beat Evansville giving them 48 days of notice if he's in the line up let alone 48 hours.
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 04, 2020, 09:40:17 AMI agree with Crusader05, I think Javon was honest and Lottich probably didn't want to announce but then had to (as per usual, don't give away game plan etc). Though consider that this is the conference tournament, may be different set of expectations for marketing reasons. Having a Top 3 MVP be a game-time decision could hurt attendance? Doubtful, but marketing is nothing if not over analytical.
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 04, 2020, 09:40:17 AMI agree with Crusader05, I think Javon was honest and Lottich probably didn't want to announce but then had to (as per usual, don't give away game plan etc). Though consider that this is the conference tournament, may be different set of expectations for marketing reasons. Having a Top 3 MVP be a game-time decision could hurt attendance? Doubtful, but marketing is nothing if not over analytical.
We normally don't make players who have been out with an injury (or in this case, illness) available to the media until after they return, but in this case Matt and I wanted to allow Javon to get as much well-deserved media attention as possible for the all-conference honors he received this week, so we didn't want to decline those requests. It also didn't seem fair to the fans or media members to not allow them to hear from the first-team All-MVC honoree, a big achievement for him and the program. It wasn't a case of Javon saying something he wasn't supposed to or a miscommunication; we weren't going to ask Javon not to be truthful about his status, so both Matt and myself knew he may let reporters know he was playing if that was asked. In this instance, we knew Evansville was going to be prepared for the possibility of playing against Javon regardless of whether or not it was announced/confirmed that he would play.
On a different note, so great to see Javon, Mileek, Kiser and Donovan get well-deserved league honors this week. Very positive vibe around the team and program right now heading into the tournament.
WHY MUST YOU BREAK UP OUR HAND WRINGING AND CONSPIRACY THEORIES WITH A CALM AND RATIONAL RESPONSE???!!!!
Thanks Brandon. Makes sense. And congrats to JFL on the big accomplishment, definitely deserving!! Glad to hear it being confirmed he will play (although we had all assumed) and agree that we should beat Evansville with 48 days notice, but, madness happens in March and that's why the games are played. Any advantage we can have should be utilized :-)
Quote from: Brandon on March 04, 2020, 12:36:59 PM
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 04, 2020, 09:40:17 AMI agree with Crusader05, I think Javon was honest and Lottich probably didn't want to announce but then had to (as per usual, don't give away game plan etc). Though consider that this is the conference tournament, may be different set of expectations for marketing reasons. Having a Top 3 MVP be a game-time decision could hurt attendance? Doubtful, but marketing is nothing if not over analytical.
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 04, 2020, 09:40:17 AMI agree with Crusader05, I think Javon was honest and Lottich probably didn't want to announce but then had to (as per usual, don't give away game plan etc). Though consider that this is the conference tournament, may be different set of expectations for marketing reasons. Having a Top 3 MVP be a game-time decision could hurt attendance? Doubtful, but marketing is nothing if not over analytical.
We normally don't make players who have been out with an injury (or in this case, illness) available to the media until after they return, but in this case Matt and I wanted to allow Javon to get as much well-deserved media attention as possible for the all-conference honors he received this week, so we didn't want to decline those requests. It also didn't seem fair to the fans or media members to not allow them to hear from the first-team All-MVC honoree, a big achievement for him and the program. It wasn't a case of Javon saying something he wasn't supposed to or a miscommunication; we weren't going to ask Javon not to be truthful about his status, so both Matt and myself knew he may let reporters know he was playing if that was asked. In this instance, we knew Evansville was going to be prepared for the possibility of playing against Javon regardless of whether or not it was announced/confirmed that he would play.
On a different note, so great to see Javon, Mileek, Kiser and Donovan get well-deserved league honors this week. Very positive vibe around the team and program right now heading into the tournament.
Thanks for taking time to inform the fans. It's greatly appreciated and a nice personal touch that many programs might not have taken the time to do. Please keep us engaged as much as you can!
In a day where "distance" and "privacy" are overly acted on it's refreshing having yourself, Todd Ickow, Paul Oren and other athletics department contributors being active on this forum where the alumni/fans live during the week.
Its admirable and intelligent to keep us enthused about the program and feeling "ownership level" excitement by having interactions. Sometimes I think that corporations (Universities) lose touch and expect the worse every time they engage fans in this manner.
P.S. During rebuilding years its importance is ratcheted up. Keep us sidetracked, fat and happy with updates and interactions!!!
And when they least expect it suddenly have a guy playing his first season after red shirting last season announce his back is better and sit on the bench in uniform but not play. Always keep the fans wondering about something so there is some kind of drama at the AMadness. ;)
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 04, 2020, 02:22:13 PM
Quote from: Brandon on March 04, 2020, 12:36:59 PM
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 04, 2020, 09:40:17 AMI agree with Crusader05, I think Javon was honest and Lottich probably didn't want to announce but then had to (as per usual, don't give away game plan etc). Though consider that this is the conference tournament, may be different set of expectations for marketing reasons. Having a Top 3 MVP be a game-time decision could hurt attendance? Doubtful, but marketing is nothing if not over analytical.
Quote from: FieldGoodie05 on March 04, 2020, 09:40:17 AMI agree with Crusader05, I think Javon was honest and Lottich probably didn't want to announce but then had to (as per usual, don't give away game plan etc). Though consider that this is the conference tournament, may be different set of expectations for marketing reasons. Having a Top 3 MVP be a game-time decision could hurt attendance? Doubtful, but marketing is nothing if not over analytical.
We normally don't make players who have been out with an injury (or in this case, illness) available to the media until after they return, but in this case Matt and I wanted to allow Javon to get as much well-deserved media attention as possible for the all-conference honors he received this week, so we didn't want to decline those requests. It also didn't seem fair to the fans or media members to not allow them to hear from the first-team All-MVC honoree, a big achievement for him and the program. It wasn't a case of Javon saying something he wasn't supposed to or a miscommunication; we weren't going to ask Javon not to be truthful about his status, so both Matt and myself knew he may let reporters know he was playing if that was asked. In this instance, we knew Evansville was going to be prepared for the possibility of playing against Javon regardless of whether or not it was announced/confirmed that he would play.
On a different note, so great to see Javon, Mileek, Kiser and Donovan get well-deserved league honors this week. Very positive vibe around the team and program right now heading into the tournament.
Thanks for taking time to inform the fans. It's greatly appreciated and a nice personal touch that many programs might not have taken the time to do. Please keep us engaged as much as you can!
In a day where "distance" and "privacy" are overly acted on it's refreshing having yourself, Todd Ickow, Paul Oren and other athletics department contributors being active on this forum where the alumni/fans live during the week.
Its admirable and intelligent to keep us enthused about the program and feeling "ownership level" excitement by having interactions. Sometimes I think that corporations (Universities) lose touch and expect the worse every time they engage fans in this manner.
P.S. During rebuilding years its importance is ratcheted up. Keep us sidetracked, fat and happy with updates and interactions!!!
Looks like he will test the NBA waters...my guess is they will want to see him get stronger physically, play on the ball more, and develop a better outside shot. Hope he gets good advice and comes back even hungrier!
Quote from: M on April 01, 2020, 05:29:17 PM
Looks like he will test the NBA waters...my guess is they will want to see him get stronger physically, play on the ball more, and develop a better outside shot. Hope he gets good advice and comes back even hungrier!
28.7% 3 point shooting isn't going to cut it in the NBA. That number doesn't even cut it in the MVC. Some of that decline may have been mono related but still his percentage was only around 32 when we know he was healthy.
You forgot to mention his runner needing work. It is trash and he needs to forget everything he thinks he knows about it and start all over using glass and backspin and being more situationally selective. I can't put a number on his success with this shot but he seems to have the majority clank over or dribble off the rim. Very frustrating thing for all of us. Some good instruction from a real pro might be extremely helpful. :thumbsup:
Quote from: justducky on April 01, 2020, 06:56:02 PMYou forgot to mention his runner needing work. It is trash and he needs to forget everything he thinks he knows about it and start all over using glass and backspin and being more situationally selective. I can't put a number on his success with this shot but he seems to have the majority clank over or dribble off the rim. Very frustrating thing for all of us. Some good instruction from a real pro might be extremely helpful.
Javon really has fallen in love with the "floater" and quite frankly if I don't see him shoot another one I wouldn't miss it one bit. Take the :censored: ball strong all the way to the hole.
I have no issues with Javon testing the waters this year. Get some advice on what improvements to make, skills to work on, and what physical/mental aspects of himself to work on in 2020-21. It will already be a POY battle between Javon, Krutweg, and Green next season. Will be fun watching those three making the MVC a league to be fearing.
Quote from: justducky on April 01, 2020, 06:56:02 PMSome good instruction from a real pro might be extremely helpful.
I thought his uncle, Marcus Liberty, already filled that role for him.
I don't mind his floaters, as it gives him another shot that defenses have to guard. We all know that he can take it to the hole, but if he continues his outside shot progress, and nails that floater on a more regular basis, he becomes even more dangerous.
The single best and most important thing he could do for his game right now would be to develop his outside shot. The floater is extra gravy. The outside shot is necessary both for his sake as a college player and for his professional future. I wouldn't be surprised if that is what most NBA decisionmakers tell him as he tests the draft waters this year.
I'm glad JFL is getting the NBA feedback. Hopefully it's a great experience. It can't hurt in the very least.
?
https://twitter.com/aintujavon/status/1247034506453954560?s=21
I can fully understand JFL wanting to get feedback from the NBA. But is he really going to get any feedback if things are locked down until a few weeks before the NBA Draft in June?
Just found out. Steve Hudson is a leader in the CPL and Chicago AAU community passed away on Friday. Sounds like he may have been close. Sad news.
https://twitter.com/ssuburbanhoops/status/1247066667861135362?s=21
This award probably would have gone differently if JFL chose to stay.
https://twitter.com/valpoathletics/status/1263137688279973888?s=21
Quote from: VU2014 on May 20, 2020, 06:13:14 PM
This award probably would have gone differently if JFL chose to stay.
https://twitter.com/valpoathletics/status/1263137688279973888?s=21
Possibly, but it ended up going to the right person. Bruno was both a scholar (very important at a place like Valpo) who was named MVC Track Scholar-Athlete of the Year) and Valpo's first Valley Champion in The Valley by winning the mile at the indoor championships. Two things JFL couldn't measure up to. Bruno is carrying a 3.7 gpa in a Master's program studying Analytics and Modeling. :o
Interesting. I didn't even notice when I first saw the picture...
https://twitter.com/thereal_mg3/status/1268277755545706497?s=21
Quote from: VU2014 on June 03, 2020, 04:48:07 PM
Interesting. I didn't even notice when I first saw the picture...
https://twitter.com/thereal_mg3/status/1268277755545706497?s=21
To include a picture of a former employee who now works for a direct competitor to promote a current company cause would place the business in legal jeopardy. I can't think of a reason why the circumstance at hand would be any different. JFL represents and is represented by DePaul University, not Valparaiso University.
Whatever, man. Markus talking about loyalty is like Trump talking about adultery.
Who is Markus Golder?
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on June 03, 2020, 10:11:01 PM
Whatever, man. Markus talking about loyalty is like Trump talking about adultery.
I'm sure there are a lot of fans of North Idaho College that were upset when Markus left after his redshirt freshman (academically a sophomore) season. He could have played another year there.
https://nicathletics.com/teams/mens-basketball/roster/2015-2016/markus-golder.html
What's not to like about Coeur d'Alene, Idaho?
Javon doesn't seem to be in a good spot...
I think when decided to transfer he'd get instant eligibility but maybe the NCAA isn't granting it. They've granting waivers like candy so maybe idk what's up with his eligibility status
https://twitter.com/aintujavon/status/1316771123196035076?s=21
If he does not get to play this season he gets now sympathy from me. This transfer thing is getting way out-of-hand IMO. It seems like anything these "kids" want they expect to get and sorry to say that is often what happens. There may be some very good causes for a few exceptions, but in general these transfers are getting ridiculous. They know the rules before they file...so what is their beef? Deal with it , "kids"!
Quote from: valpo64 on October 15, 2020, 01:23:41 PM
If he does not get to play this season he gets now sympathy from me. This transfer thing is getting way out-of-hand IMO. It seems like anything these "kids" want they expect to get and sorry to say that is often what happens. There may be some very good causes for a few exceptions, but in general these transfers are getting ridiculous. They know the rules before they file...so what is their beef? Deal with it , "kids"!
It's pretty clear he wanted to play one more season season of CBB and then potentially go pro. He took a gamble he'd get instant eligibility to play but doesn't sound like they've granted it so far.
Javon listened to his Uncle on this one from my understanding and it's back firing. This all in the past now and I don't want to beat a deadhorse but he was THE guy at Valpo and the offense was surrounded around him and he gave it up to play for DePaul... and a chance to likely only play there one season. Questionable advise...
Sucks for JFL but he still has bright future but definitely throws a wrench into his plans to go pro early
Is the holdup on Valpo's end? I hope not. That tends not to reflect very well on future recruiting.
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on October 15, 2020, 05:07:31 PM
Is the holdup on Valpo's end? I hope not. That tends not to reflect very well on future recruiting.
I don't think so. Could be they don't believe in the cause. I remember hearing he wanted to be closer to his grandma
So the grass might not actually be greener on the other side huh.....strange how that works
I highly doubt that we would be the one holding up anything. It has to be that the NCAA isn't buying the family reason, especially with how close our school is to Chicago.
JFL going pro in a year? What pro league are we talking about? Be aware that he went to DePaul in a more competitive conference, but DePaul has been a consistent cellar dweller in the Big East for at least a decade. DePaul basketball has sucked for awhile and has been an administrative mess.
I don't recall any of our transfers going on to greater things than they would have had they stayed. Yes Brandon Wood did, I think, start at Michigan State and play in the NCAA tournament. But I don't think you could say he was a star there, and I don't think his pro career was any better than it would have been had he stayed. Likewise I think David Skara ended up starting at Clemson but I doubt it really enhanced his pro career much. The twin towers never got more than a few minutes per game at their transfer schools. I know the young can be eternally optimistic but the track record of the kids that transferred does have lessons it could teach if they would only listen.
Quote from: usc4valpo on October 17, 2020, 08:29:02 AMJFL going pro in a year? What pro league are we talking about? Be aware that he went to DePaul in a more competitive conference, but DePaul has been a consistent cellar dweller in the Big East for at least a decade. DePaul basketball has sucked for awhile and has been an administrative mess.
Yeah but they really showed some signs of life last year (at least in the nonconference) and isn't their corrupt incompetent AD gone? I think things will be looking up for DePaul in short order.
Pro? As in NBA pro or overseas? If it's NBA it is a deep fantasy right now.
1314 - I agree with your comment, but it will be a process to clean up the DePaul swamp. DePaul still thinks of themselves as Chicago's major college basketball team, and their credibility has tanked over decades. That program requires an enema starting with the coaching staff and better engagement in recruiting the talent rich Chicagoland area. They have a beautiful arena, a nice campus in a great neighborhood - they should be able to succeed.
As for JFL - good luck, but he led Valpo hanging. Time to move on.
Being a DePaul alum and PROUD Valpo dad I can say DePaul basketball is rising. They have a top 10 class (based on verbals) for next season and added some nice transfers. DeWayne Peevey is now the AD (who was Kentucky's assistant AD) who replaces to ultimately incompetent Jean Lenti Ponsetto.
That being said, actions like this are great but only bear fruit on the court. To 2014's point...his uncle has CLOSE TIES TO ILLINOIS AND CHICAGO. While Illinois liked him to be a bench player, with their roster for this year he wasn't going to be in the starting line up and on the fringe of the rotation. Marcus and his sister wanted him featured to expand his exposure. DePaul offered them that and Tim Anderson and Marcus go WAAAAAAAY BACK in their high school days. He was sold. My understanding is Freeman is staying at DePaul for at least a year and playing one even if he's not eligible this season. Now they were told he was certain to get a year but the NCAA ain't stupid. Your're playing 60 miles west for "hardship"...C'mon man!!!!????
https://twitter.com/kreyme8/status/1329096625751515142?s=21
https://twitter.com/goodmanhoops/status/1329154825817387010?s=21
No word on a waiver, but Depaul had to cancel their first 3 games:
https://depaulbluedemons.com/news/2020/11/19/depaul-to-pause-all-mens-basketball-team-activities.aspx
I don't know how I feel about this. On one hand I'm happy for Javon but on another this is just a slippery slope for mid-major transfers.
I don't know all the details but it's a suspect hardship waiver process. We're in a weird year but I just don't know if I buy the hard waivers the NCAA has been passing out like candy the last few weeks. Maybe it's COVID relate that they are doing this but the NCAA just continually loosen it's rules that end up hurting mid-majors.
https://twitter.com/nwioren/status/1331648712842616834?s=21
Agreed, happy for Javon, as I hold no ill will towards him, but this was a sketchy case of using the hardship waiver.
Quote from: valpotx on November 26, 2020, 02:32:29 AM
Agreed, happy for Javon, as I hold no ill will towards him, but this was a sketchy case of using the hardship waiver.
The NCAA way of doing things would be to make sure Valpo got punished for Javon asking for a waiver.
Quote from: bbtds on November 26, 2020, 05:26:28 AM
Quote from: valpotx on November 26, 2020, 02:32:29 AM
Agreed, happy for Javon, as I hold no ill will towards him, but this was a sketchy case of using the hardship waiver.
The NCAA way of doing things would be to make sure Valpo got punished for Javon asking for a waiver.
I hope that Javon does well at DePaul. I really don't believe that this move was a legitimate use of the waiver, but I am sure he is just following the advise of his advisors and hopefully has no ill will towards Valpo. I really don't feel that many of these transfers, done to improve a players prospects, has really worked out in the majority of cases. It would be interesting for someone to do an analysis of this strategy.
Yeah, it is debatable whether Brandon Wood and David Skara increased their pro possibilities by upgrading to Michigan State and Clemson, versus having a more significant role at Valpo. Those are really the only two cases that might have done such a thing.
Based on the way things are going in the US with Covid, I would believe, since the NCAA blanketed the eligibility situation for this year, giving EVERYONE an additional year, they are tossing out any transfers this year, and just giving those players immediate eligibility too. We will see what happens for JFL this season at DePaul.
First De Paul game today for JFL...
EspnU 5pm central
Who?
This game has also been cancelled.
Still waiting for that first game. :'( Basically their entire OOC schedule has been cancelled.
Quote from: vu72 on December 06, 2020, 04:55:39 PM
Who?
Jamal Freedom Liberate, right? Wasn't that his name?
Yup... they open their season ... on the road at Seton Hall at 3:30pm Friday (CT)... maybe...
JFL with a solid Depaul debut against WIU:
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/boxscore?gameId=401271122
Quote from: valpotx on December 24, 2020, 12:32:42 AM
JFL with a solid Depaul debut against WIU:
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/boxscore?gameId=401271122
Jamal was the leading scorer with 19 points on 8 of 12 FG.
Quote from: bbtds on December 24, 2020, 05:11:59 AM
Quote from: valpotx on December 24, 2020, 12:32:42 AM
JFL with a solid Depaul debut against WIU:
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/boxscore?gameId=401271122
Jamal was the leading scorer with 19 points on 8 of 12 FG.
While it looks like he had a very solid first game, Charlie Moore was their leading scorer with 22 points.
I watched the De Paul vs WIU game. JFL has definitely bulked up in the weight room. Looked great playing with other good players(Charlie Moore, etc.).
Watching JFL last night really brought to light how we miss having a good point guard who can also score. His absence from our lineup is the most glaring weakness for this year's team IMO.
Quote from: valpo64 on December 24, 2020, 11:55:49 AM
Watching JFL last night really brought to light how we miss having a good point guard who can also score. His absence from our lineup is the most glaring weakness for this year's team IMO.
I have no particular ill-will toward JFL, yet his late transfer illustrates the catch 22 for a mid-major coach trying to recruit a team. Recruiting is the lifeblood of college basketball, and it is hard enough to get top recruits. If you were a top recruit playing the same position as JFL, imagine how the conversation goes: "Come to Valpo, and you can sit on the bench for two or three years behind JFL. If he gets injured, or after he graduates, you can step right in." That's why we don't have a one for one replacement.
It's good to see him playing at a level that really tests his ability. After two years in the MVC, he showed that he could have gone High major fresh out of Whitney Young. He's now at a point where the challenges to his growth are going to bring more rewards at DePaul than they would at Valpo, and he would have left after this season anyway. Now he has 3 years to show what he can do to help his draft status with better competition.
Quote from: valporun on December 26, 2020, 01:48:28 PMIt's good to see him playing at a level that really tests his ability.
Umm, he was playing against Western Illinois.
Quote from: vu72 on December 28, 2020, 08:14:10 AM
Quote from: valporun on December 26, 2020, 01:48:28 PMIt's good to see him playing at a level that really tests his ability.
Umm, he was playing against Western Illinois. Against Providence is scored 13, shot 5 of 16 from the floor and 1 of 4 from the 3.
I hope the novelty of reporting JFL game results wears off quickly.
Quote from: wh on December 28, 2020, 10:40:11 AM
I hope the novelty of reporting JFL game results wears off quickly.
I don't even know who this Jubril Frohman-Lafferty guy is.
Quote from: PlumStreetBum on December 28, 2020, 06:17:58 PM
Quote from: wh on December 28, 2020, 10:40:11 AM
I hope the novelty of reporting JFL game results wears off quickly.
I don't even know who this Jubril Frohman-Lafferty guy is.
Didn't he transfer to Northwestern before last season? Jamal Freedom Libertas?
Abe Froman? The sausage king of Chicago?
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on December 29, 2020, 09:17:58 AM
Abe Froman? The sausage king of Chicago?
(https://i.etsystatic.com/6750054/r/il/f04078/501533760/il_794xN.501533760_701y.jpg)
DePaul's season ends in a big loss to UConn. JFL was really the main contributor for the team in most games, except against us, and he did miss a few games due to concussion protocols. Hopefully they get him some support, otherwise they have another last place finish coming next season:
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/boxscore?gameId=401308856
Another big factor for JFL is DePaul will undoubted be transitioning to a new coaching staff. I think you will see a complete overhaul of the DePaul program after decades of ineptitude under Ponsetto and poor coaching staffs. For Chicagoland college basketball in general, this will be good.
Quote from: valpotx on March 12, 2021, 12:59:48 AM
DePaul's season ends in a big loss to UConn. JFL was really the main contributor for the team in most games, except against us, and he did miss a few games due to concussion protocols. Hopefully they get him some support, otherwise they have another last place finish coming next season:
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/boxscore?gameId=401308856
The stats would say he performed at about the same level as his last year at Valpo. At Valpo he shot 43.6% overall, 28.7% from the 3 and 75.0% from the line. At DePaul he shot 42.7 % overall, 29.3% from the 3 and 74.0% from the line. Those in virtually the same amount of time on the court. Overall his scoring dropped from 19.0 to 14.4 ppg as he had to share the ball a little more.
Quote from: vu72 on March 12, 2021, 08:26:20 AMQuote from: valpotx on March 12, 2021, 12:59:48 AMDePaul's season ends in a big loss to UConn. JFL was really the main contributor for the team in most games, except against us, and he did miss a few games due to concussion protocols. Hopefully they get him some support, otherwise they have another last place finish coming next season: https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/boxscore?gameId=401308856
The stats would say he performed at about the same level as his last year at Valpo. At Valpo he shot 43.6% overall, 28.7% from the 3 and 75.0% from the line. At DePaul he shot 42.7 % overall, 29.3% from the 3 and 74.0% from the line. Those in virtually the same amount of time on the court. Overall his scoring dropped from 19.0 to 14.4 ppg as he had to share the ball a little more.
Performed the same with tougher competition. He would have put up over 20 ppg with us.
I'm not sure how much we can glean from this year's stats. Between COVID and injuries, he only played in 12 regular season games, plus 2 tournament games. He only played 10 Big East conference games in the regular season. He didn't play against top seed Villanova and only 1 game against 2 seed Creighton. How that all would have played out had he played a 33-game schedule instead of 14 and 20 conference games instead of 10 is anyone's guess. He might actually have done better, had he been given more opportunities to adjust to the higher level of play. Conversely, an argument could be made that playing 33 games instead of 14 against high level competition would have worn him down and impacted his stats. We really don't know.
Javon won 5 games this year.....not fun. One of the 5 was against us though......
If he came back, I would welcome him like the prodical son. (One can dream) He is an amazing baller. We were lucky to have had him for two years. He just chose the wrong Big East school. I was so bitter at first, but when you see him play, he is so fun to watch.
Plenty of schollies available. At least JFL constantly worked to improve his game and burned to win. Can't say I feel the same about some of the departures.
Quote from: bb33 on March 12, 2021, 11:24:03 AM
If he came back, I would welcome him like the prodical son. (One can dream) He is an amazing baller. We were lucky to have had him for two years. He just chose the wrong Big East school. I was so bitter at first, but when you see him play, he is so fun to watch.
I agree 100% with everything you just said. He still has 2 years of eligibility left. Can you imagine!?
(https://www.sports-reference.com/req/202103311/cbb/images/players/javon-freeman-1.jpg)
Sunday, November 21
Joseph Girard Jordan Wright Javon Freeman-Liberty Mark Freeman Sasha Stefanovic
Nov 20, 2021 Top 5 Performers
......................................Pts.....Reb..Ast
3. Javon Freeman-Liberty
DePaul vs. Western Ill....... 33... 11... 4
Quote from: Just Sayin on November 21, 2021, 08:53:46 AM
(https://www.sports-reference.com/req/202103311/cbb/images/players/javon-freeman-1.jpg)
Sunday, November 21
Joseph Girard Jordan Wright Javon Freeman-Liberty Mark Freeman Sasha Stefanovic
Nov 20, 2021 Top 5 Performers
......................................Pts.....Reb..Ast
3. Javon Freeman-Liberty
DePaul vs. Western Ill....... 33... 11... 4
How come we can't keep players like JFL ???
Why would Javon attend our first exhibition game? Why would he talk to the coaching staff prior to the game and he and Matt exchange waves across the court after the game? What would this team look like next year with a starting 5 of Javon, Kobe, Sheldon, Ben, and Thomas? Why would Javon be interested? I could make a legitimate case for it being a very smart move.
The team would look better if we had better coaching. The excuses are over
Quote from: usc4valpo on November 22, 2021, 01:19:04 PM
The team would look better if we had better coaching. The excuses are over
I don't have the foggiest notion what your comment has to do with JFL being at a Valpo exhibition game, but please don't explain. I'll just assume it has some cryptic connection to Steven Austin or the conference of champions.
From what I understand JFL still has a positive relationship and view of Valpo. There was even talk of him potentially transferring back but DePaul's new coach I think won him over. There were rumours he texted current players last year saying he wished he hadn't transferred. Unlike other transfers there never seemed to be bad blood or a dislike of valpo just a belief he could get more eyes on him in a different team/league.
I caught the beginning of DePaul vs. Eastern Michigan game today. JFL line so far this year is 24 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. He has been named Big East player of the week twice already! Good for him! They beat Eastern Michigan by 38. It will be interesting how do against Eastern Michigan in a few weeks.
Oh if we only could have kept him here. I remember the doubters of JFL on this board.
https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/1475946972926390278
Quote from: Just Sayin on December 28, 2021, 06:18:19 PM
Oh if we only could have kept him here. I remember the doubters of JFL on this board.
https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/1475946972926390278
Who doubted JFL's ability? There were a lot of folks disappointed, but I don't remember anyone thinking that he wouldn't personally be successful. There was a lot of debate on whether Depaul can win, that is true.
Just go back to the comments section right after JFL decided to transfer. VU72 was one, there were others. I thought he was a stud, they did not. Then JFL decided to come back. Ha!
Javon is not performing nearly as well as his 20 PPG average and DePaul's 9-2 record would suggest.
• 8 of DePaul's 9 wins are against mid-majors.
• They are 3-2 in their last 5 games, with losses to Butler and Loyola.
• Over those 5 games, Javon is averaging 16 PPG which sounds pretty good, but he's 27-80 FG (35%) and 6-30 3FG (20%). Those are Daniel Sackey numbers, only worse because he's taking 16 shots/game, most on the team.
• In contrast, Kobe King is averaging 16 PPG on 53% FG, 44% 3FG. Kobe is averaging his 16 in only 27 minutes. Javon plays 36.
• If Javon (or anyone else) were allowed to shoot basically at will like this with those horrific shooting percentages as a Beacon, the usual suspects would be calling for Matt Lottich's head.
• On the positive side, he has great rebounding and assist numbers.
• Unless something changes, I see another BE losing record in DePaul's future.
It appears that reality has set in for Javon and DePaul. After starting 9-1 they are 0-5 in conference so far.
Javon's stats are excellent:
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/team/stats/_/id/305
I saw Javon play in person on Tuesday. He drew Marquette's top defender (last year's Big 10 defensive player of the year) and still had a good offensive game. What strikes me, beyond his obvious skill on both ends of the court, is his court maturity. He understands the right balance between being aggressive and patient.
The rest of DePaul's team just seems to lack cohesion (not sure that their talent is up to par with the Big East as well). Their team defense was horrid and the ball does not move with purpose on offense.
My guess is that he will transfer again after this year and will transfer to a highly prominent program. He has a legitimate shot at playing in the NBA, but a year at a top program would help build his credentials. He could be a really good fit at a place like Kansas or Michigan State.
I watched him play against Villanova and he had 22 the first half. Villanova denied him the ball the second half and took the game. I believed he still managed to get 30. He is the real deal in all phases of the game. With Big East player of the year discussion in the works I believe his choice to transfer worked out to be the best move.
Quote from: Old Timer on January 13, 2022, 12:00:10 PM
I watched him play against Villanova and he had 22 the first half. Villanova denied him the ball the second half and took the game. I believed he still managed to get 30. He is the real deal in all phases of the game. With Big East player of the year discussion in the works I believe his choice to transfer worked out to be the best move.
I can see Javon making first team All Big East, but if DePaul finishes in the bottom two or three and Villanova finishes in the top two then Gillespie will be Big East player of the year.
JFL had 12 before injury. With just over 2 minutes to go, #20 Seton Hall down 83-72 to DePaul.
DePaul poorly-coached team. Might lose.
DePaul 96, Seton Hall 92 Final
https://twitter.com/JavonFreemanLib/status/1481813461051006978
https://twitter.com/CBBonFOX/status/1481018574797885440
https://twitter.com/DePaulHoops/status/1494513041282641920
JFL announced he is leaving DePaul. Didn't even wait for the Big East Tournament to be over. If I was his coach I wouldn't play him.
Leaving DePaul to transfer? pro?
To clarify "will not be back at DePaul"
More interesting "guidance" from his "team".
Quote from: vu72 on March 03, 2022, 08:12:51 AMMore interesting "guidance" from his "team".
Not sure I blame him. He's having an unbelievable year at DePaul, but DePaul is not a good team. My guess is he tries for Pro this summer, if it doesn't happen he will get plenty of big names calling for him to transfer to next year (and I assume he can be a grad transfer). I'm sure he would leave the door open for a return to DePaul if a better situation doesn't arise (we've seen that from him before haven't we).
He has pro aspirations, as he should. Whatever the best move to accomplish that is, he should make it.
That being said, yeah he probably should have waited till after the tournament to announce.
He almost transferred back to Valpo last year from rumors that were flying around but decided to try the new coach out.
Doubt Valpo's on his radar this time but I don't think he was ever fully happy there. You have to wonder if COVID hadn't happened right after the MVC tournament run what the Valpo team looks like now.
I feel he is going to make a full effort to make it pro this off-season. Maybe he'll come back to Valpo and be the Ja Morant of college bball! I'm guessing if he does return to cbb, he slides a little south and ends up at U of I.
I find this "news" neither a big deal or surprise. I'm going to guess the DePaul program finds it even less so.
The pro game beckons and it's time for him. It isn't as if he's an 18 year old freshman.
Agree with the prior post. I have seen quite a bit of Big East basketball this year and JFL is definitely one of the five best players in the conference. He has nothing to prove by going to another college team (even if it is much better than DePaul), so it is pretty clear that he will go pro.
I can confirm that JFL is not going back to Valpo, but will likely turn pro even if that means going overseas. I get the impression he's done waiting for that money.
I got to the bottom of this all.
Sounds like it was an overzealous high school kid in the press conference who misinterpreted something Javon said about it being the last game of the year at WinTrust. He never directly said he was leaving and the question was never directly asked. I've talked to two people who were in the press conference. For Javon's part, he tweeted that he was keeping his options open.
Coming back home Friday night with the Raptors...
Home isn't Valpo for him. Who cares.
True statement. Chicago is home not Valpo. United Center is in Chicago not Valpo. I care. Top four Valpo player of all time. Brought us to finals. Times have changed with transfers. If you don't care keep scrolling.
Quote from: tiny707 on October 26, 2023, 07:27:29 PM
True statement. Chicago is home not Valpo. United Center is in Chicago not Valpo. I care. Top four Valpo player of all time. Brought us to finals. Times have changed with transfers. If you don't care keep scrolling.
You're certainly entitled to your opinion about embracing JFL, just as Chairback is entitled to his without it being summarily dismissed. I could easily use your point about how times have changed with transfers as a good reason not to care. As you may recall, he announced he was leaving after his freshman year, then changed his mind. Not much of a relationship there from the get-go.
Quote from: wh on October 26, 2023, 07:48:15 PM
Quote from: tiny707 on October 26, 2023, 07:27:29 PM
True statement. Chicago is home not Valpo. United Center is in Chicago not Valpo. I care. Top four Valpo player of all time. Brought us to finals. Times have changed with transfers. If you don't care keep scrolling.
You're certainly entitled to your opinion about embracing JFL, just as Chairback is entitled to his without it being summarily dismissed. I could easily use your point about how times have changed with transfers as a good reason not to care. As you may recall, he announced he was leaving after his freshman year, then changed his mind. Not much of a relationship there from the get-go.
Not to mention that mention that he assured fans that he was staying in Valpo shortly before entering the transfer portal.
I, for one, would like to see another former Valpo player in the NBA....even if he transferred out and, when doing so, gave mixed messages.
Quote from: vu84v2 on October 27, 2023, 08:38:39 AMI, for one, would like to see another former Valpo player in the NBA....even if he transferred out and, when doing so, gave mixed messages.
One who'll be identified as a DePaul grad.
If I remember correctly, Javon still had a relationship with the former coaching staff and was welcomed back occasionally. If we can use that to our advantage in any way, I have no problem with supporting him.
His Raptors jersey should be hung at Hilltop next to Bryce, Alec and Ryan's.
Then we should hang up Donovan Clay's euro jersey too once he signs.
If Donovan makes NBA hang his jersey too at Hilltop.
JFL's transfer taught us a painful lesson about the influence of the transfer portal and the status of VU's MBB program. Alt sports histories are concededly fueled by fantasy, but if he stays, a veteran Valpo squad led by him, Krikke, and Clay is pretty cool to imagine.
Quote from: tiny707 on October 27, 2023, 04:23:03 PM
If Donovan makes NBA hang his jersey too at Hilltop.
Jacob Ognacevic has been far more successful at Lipscomb than has been Donovan Clay at Missouri State. I'm thinking statue adjacent to the Victory Bell if he makes the NBA. ;)
Quote from: wh on November 01, 2023, 10:50:47 AM
Quote from: tiny707 on October 27, 2023, 04:23:03 PM
If Donovan makes NBA hang his jersey too at Hilltop.
Jacob Ognacevic has been far more successful at Lipscomb than has been Donovan Clay at Missouri State. I'm thinking statue adjacent to the Victory Bell if he makes the NBA. ;)
Add JO to that mix....esp for outside shooting.
I know, coulda, woulda, shoulda.
But I think JFL's departure was the statement that it was OK to regard VU as a developmental stop along the way.
Javon gave us two great years. He had ambitions to play professionally, and made the choice that his best bet to get there was by moving to a larger school/conference. Looking back on it, with Lottich as the coach and the constant turmoil the team was in, he probably made the right choice. I don't consider him leaving on bad terms. I imagine if Valpo were in a stronger position at the time he would have stayed, at least longer than he did. He did what was best for him.
Clearly different than Clay or JO who didn't do a ton here and moved laterally or down because they didn't want to be here, regardless of the reason.
I for one am happy to consider JFL as a Valpo product even if he isn't listed as such. Maybe not to the same degree as I do Bryce, or Peters or even Krikke (who would have Iowa after his name if he goes pro). But I am not going to hate on him or be all bitter because he moved on from us.
Agree 98. Clay wanted to be closer to home too. All three probably stay with current coaching staff.
I know I've talked about this on the pod, but here are my thoughts on JFL.
If COVID never happens, JFL is back at Valpo. Here is my thinking. The team makes the Valley title game and comes up short. Players go home for spring break and are back on campus a week later. Offseason workouts begin with a focus on taking the next step. With Sackey and JFL as the experienced leaders, and Clay/Krikke as emerging talents along with Gordon and Robinson, the team has a real core of players. JFL sees that the team can grow together. Then you throw in Sheldon Edwards in the summer and here comes a freshman that will challenge JFL every day in practice. JFL is Preseason Valley First Team and is likely Player of the Year after AJ Green's injury.
What happens instead is everyone scatters after Valley title loss because of COVID. Players are stuck at home where JFL is around people who keep telling him to leave Valpo. He's not in the gym with his teammates. He's not meeting with the coaches. Instead, he decides to stay in the city and he transfers to DePaul. It's an up-and-down year and when the season ends, his coach gets fired. This has been alluded many times, but JFL was thisclose to coming back to Valpo. Conversations were had and I even went so far as to write a draft of a story that he was transferring back to Valpo. I had alerted my sports editor that such a story was coming "any day now." He wanted to come back, but was essentially (and incorrectly) blocked by DePaul. DePaul hires Stubblefield from Oregon and it becomes a moot point.
Point of all of it is, JFL maintained (and still has) a great relationship with Valpo and that coaching staff. He wanted to come back. If COVID never happens, I don't believe he ever leaves. It's just my opinion and it means nothing at the end of the day. JFL is a very private and quiet person, so I'm not sure that we'll ever get a public declaration of just how close he was to coming back. I'm thrilled that he's on the cusp of his NBA dream and I think the Bulls made a major error in letting him go.
Thanks for your take PO. Bulls
could use him now. Game changer.
DePaul wouldn't release him? Valpo always took the higher ground and didn't impede such movement to other programs.
hmmmm....id ask some of the players under Bryce about that when he left
If it was folks that wanted to follow Bryce to Vanderbilt, I support Valpo's decision in those cases
Quote from: valpotx on November 05, 2023, 03:20:10 PM
If it was folks that wanted to follow Bryce to Vanderbilt, I support Valpo's decision in those cases
David Skara comes to mind.
26 points for JFL debut with Toronto Raptors.
He has an NBA style to him, with his slashing approach and streaky shooting
He had 26 with the G League Raptors 905. Still a nice debut but not for Toronto.
Quote from: tiny707 on November 11, 2023, 08:07:52 AM
26 points for JFL debut with Toronto Raptors.
If Javon had scored 26 for the Raptors in the NBA there would have been a bunch of Raptor fans talking about it on the NBA channel and Mr. Kim would have been talking to Mr. Chin about it in Kim's Convenience Store off Sherbourne on Queen St. East.
269 Queen St E - Google Maps (https://www.google.com/maps/@43.6548511,-79.3680066,3a,75y,270h,90t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s_AtWddL4-rI1m6EpcyA9SA!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?entry=ttu)
As of last night, Javon Freeman-Liberty has officially played in the NBA. In last nights blowout win for the Raptors, he played two minutes and scored two points.
He is the fourth former Valpo player in its D1 era to play in the NBA.
Congrats to JFL! Never had an ill feelings towards him leaving, since it seemed to be driven by those around him.