This is a post I made at a Jayhawk board, but I'll repost here since the topic came up:
There's been some discussion about the freshman in general and the twins in particular about their competitive abilities. Some going so far as to call them "frauds" or that "they suck". So, I thought I would go through the life of Arizona's, Jordan Hill.
Rivals ranked him No. 86 out of high school, the No. 11 power forward.
Year GP-GS Min/Avg FG-FGA Pct FG-FGA Pct FT-FTA Pct Off-Def Tot
Avg PF-FO Ast TO Blk Stl Pts/
Avg
2006-07 29-12 409/14.1 58-89 .652 0-0 .000 21-47 .447 46-72 118
4.1 51-0 3 21 26 6 137/
4.7
Freshman
2007-08 34-33 1001/29.4 184-297 .620 0-0 .000 82-120 .683 84-186 270
7.9 105-2 27 72 56 17 450/
13.2
Sophmore
So far this season, Hill is averaging 12 rpg and 17.8 ppg
Junior
Look at the difference in body composition to go along with the experience of playing his third year of college ball. I wish people would quit coming down so hard on freshman. I think part of the problem has been the run of super talented freshman that have introduced themselves in the Big 12 with Durant and Beasley. Griffin might have been in that same category if not for injuries, and is proving it as a sophmore. But, please, try and remember, there's so much more to being a freshman than just the basketball side of things. Its a huge adjustment from which most teams try to bring along in doses, but due to early defections, we don't have said luxury. I predict, that in the coming years, people are going to be quite pleased that this group formed the nucleus of support that last year's seniors provided for some of their more talented underclassman.
We we're not going to win a national title this year folks. Instead of this constant assessment, just enjoy the experience of the learning curve. It will be frustrating at times, but the payoff could be huge. Self and his staff know how to develop players, know how to teach the game. Every student, no matter what subject, has a different learning curve, don't try and cookie cut these guys into your expectations for living vicariously through your sports teams. Its just not that important. If you can't enjoy the process, you are a fair weather fan. Remember when Russ Rob didn't want to get into a game as a freshman? Remember when DJ wanted to quit? Remember when people thought Sasha wouldn't be a productive post player because of his footwork? Don't rush the process, the payoff is not this year. Its fine to point out areas that need improvement, but let's try and avoid personal attacks that really don't say much about the players but more about your own frustration. Every player has their demon to conquer their freshman year, some demons linger longer, but Jayhawks don't quit. Don't quit too early on our young Hawks.