The Pass-First Big Man

Duke's recent lack of success in recruiting has been obvious to college basketball fans. Whatever has occurred, it hasn't been due to the lack of McDonald's All-Americans. In 2005 Duke hauled in Josh McRoberts, Greg Paulus, and Eric Boateng, although Boateng left after his freshman season for Arizona State. In 2006 Duke landed Gerald Henderson, Lance Thomas and John Scheyer. 2007 saw Duke get Kyle Singler, Nolan Smith, and Taylor King, who also transferred. In 2008 Duke signed Elliot Williams. Despite landing numerous All-Americans over the last four years, excluding the success of Gerald Henderson, none have been game-changing college players. Don't get me wrong, Duke has had success with these guys. But it's obvious that they have underachieved considering the influx of talent each year.

Captain Montana likely hit on the problem in his piece covering Duke's lack of a post presence the past few years in his piece that touched UK fans in a seductive manner. I know I enjoyed it. My only qualm was the lack of respect paid to Brian Zoubek. Maybe beginning with Shavlick Randolph, Duke post players have had trouble turning high school hype into college success. Josh McRoberts, ranked the number two prospect out of high school, did not live up to the hype in his two seasons at Duke.

However, I think the Duke fans can breathe a collective sigh of relief after the inking of two big-time recruits in the 09 class. Coach K has pulled in a "pass-first big man" known as Mason Plumlee. Personally, I've never heard a high school McDonald's All-American described as a pass-first big man coming out of high school, but I can't imagine it being a good thing when you are a McD's AA whose scoring in the post will be heavily relied upon for the next four years. Plumlee was described as a pass-first big man by a rivals scouting report of the post players in the class of 09. The best part, however, is that Plumlee is ranked as the fifth best post passer in the class of 09.

If that isn't enough for Duke fans to get excited about, Plumlee will have some help. The only problem is the help is this guy. Kelly has been described as an ugly-first dead-eye shooter. The future of Duke looks bright.