Quote:
Originally Posted by ArrowheadHawk
Next year Self''s team may look like a Cal team.
|
It might, but I don't think so. In college, the biggest asset a program can have are its "program players". Whether they are starters or not, these players help freshman get acclimated to college life quicker. The better leaders these program players are, the easier it is for freshman to acclimate to college life, and in turn, have fewer pressing concerns that affect their play on the court.
UK was woefully short on that for this year's class. I could be wrong, but I never saw Wiltjer as that kind of leader. The best thing that happened this year for the Jayhawks as it relates to next year's team is that Tharpe found his game and his confidence. He's a dynamic type of person that will set the tone for the program next year, even if he doesn't start. Having three coach's sons on the practice squawd will help a bunch as well.
Even talented freshman have a lot to adapt to when moving away from home for the first time, no matter how big and powerful they might look. Obviously, a program needs elite talent to compete at the highest level, but, the more overlooked aspect for the long term health of a program, are the upper classman leaders who show the new kids the ropes and can relate what the expectations are.