Chris Thomas (Commit Other)

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Xavier Offer(According to Scout free site)

Position: SG
High School: Princeton Day Academy
Class: 2013 (High School)
Position Rank: #2 (5 Star) Scout; #4 National Rivals(5 Star, 98 ESPN(#4 national, #1 position Rank)
6'4 175 pounds

http://scouthoops.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=8&c=1&nid=5020045
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/recruiting/player-Chris-Thomas-111893
http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/recruiting/player/_/id/103398/chris-thomas


Interest: Arizona, Colorado, Ohio State, Xavier, Kentucky, Tennessee, Kansas

Scored 50 points last friday in Memphis at the Ridgeway Classic. Also had 45 points recently in the IS8 Tourney

"10. Give us your the first five college schools that pop in your head.

Arizona, Kentucky, Tennessee, Kansas, Xavier, and Colorado are the first ones I can think of. There are a lot of colleges out there looking at me and I really haven’t narrowed it down to five or even 10. I’m a sophomore so right now I’m just trying to make the grades I need to get into any college……..lol"
http://www.premierball.com/questions-answers-w-2013-chris-thomas/


Video Highlights
http://memphisroar.com/2010/11/video-chris-thomas-highlights/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32IgFNOo-MU
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9wv5MTpcfo

[Smooth]

Needs to work on his math before I get real excited about him.

[xtremefan13]

He is visiting tomorrow!

[xtremefan13]

via a manager if you all wanted a source

[BandAid]

I like his bit on grades. He obviously acknowledges their importance, but isn't afraid to throw in a joke.

[SixFig]

This would be a huge get, obviously. This is a Rasheen Davis kid. Stay tuned.

[XUFAN 51795]

Does anyone know how his visit went

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Does anyone know how his visit went

I haven't heard a thing.

[danaandvictory]

Does anyone know how his visit went

Snow's old line about every visit being a good one comes to mind. Unless the kid contracts malaria or witnesses a shooting I suspect any official visit is going to go well. School puts best foot forward, kid gets feted, sits on floor, talks to coach, etc.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Snow's old line about every visit being a good one comes to mind. Unless the kid contracts malaria or witnesses a shooting I suspect any official visit is going to go well. School puts best foot forward, kid gets feted, sits on floor, talks to coach, etc.

Exactly. On musketeerscoop (The free front page), it says he enjoyed his visit.

[MrLookout9]

On ESPN, he lists us as well as 4 other schools, including the teams of our 2 former coaches. He must really like the system?

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/recruiting/player/conversations/_/id/103398/chris-thomas

[TheHoopSide1]

Got a chance to see and talk to Chris and his father tonite at the Nike EYBL Qualifier in Fishers, IN. This kid is going to be a good one. Every facet of his game is positive except for what I'll list below.

-He has an inconsistent shooting stroke; so if he misses it, it isn't because he misjudged the length: its because his form changed slightly from shot to shot
-He doesn't move nearly as well as you would assume laterally on defense, also, his major "knock" was reconfirmed tonite as he did not exert much energy on the defensive end; not necessarily to his fault, he was almost "cherry picking" just so he could get the highlight dunk (the game was never in question, either, so it isn't like he really needed to try hard on D).
-He needs the ball in his hands. Not to say he is ineffective moving without the ball, he just gravitated toward it so it was difficult to see an off-ball skill set (no real screens were set for him either).

Other notes:

He got a delay of game violation of which he argued with the ref a little (just a few sentences back at the ref about the call, nothing major) and asked for calls whenever he got knocked down...Don't get me wrong, it wasn't whiny. The kid has a TON of charisma, and after the game he talked to the refs and all of them (He and the refs) were laughing and shaking hands. I got to talk to him and his dad (His dad was taller than me--I'm 6'7"-6'8" in shoes). It really made me think that this kid has an astoundingly high ceiling. And his father is really involved, but doesn't "Coach" from the sideline, as you would expect some "superstars" parents to be. Kids got a bright future.

[TheHoopSide1]

Highlight I shot for www.fivestarbasketball.com of Chris Thomas.

http://www.fivestarbasketball.com/videos/05-01-2011-play-of-the-day-chris-thomas

[MarvAlbert]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1asayNDMMs

He says Arizona has the lead in his recruitment, but the only other school he mentions is Xavier. He could end up being a huge get.

[SixFig]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1asayNDMMs

He says Arizona has the lead in his recruitment, but the only other school he mentions is Xavier. He could end up being a huge get.

Would be nice, but not likely, to swipe him out of Arizona's clutches. I would LOL

[Juice]

INDIANAPOLIS – It’s not often a five-star recruit is scared of going against someone – and then admits it.

In Chris Thomas’ case, though, the big-time scorer from Colorado wanted no part of Kaleb Tarczewski and the rest of the New England Playaz big men.

“They were too big,” Thomas said. “I played against the big guy (Tarczewski) in Adidas Nations, and he had some mean blocks. Every time I went up, I thought I was going to get blocked or get hurt.”

Thomas, a 6-foot-5 shooting guard who will attend La Jolla Prep (Calif.) next year, is still one of the most unstoppable scorers in the country. He is long and athletic, and his first step and explosiveness are on another level. Thomas has deep range on his jumper, and is a very good passer when he gets others involved.

At the Adidas Invitational, Thomas was fairly inconsistent, scoring 35 in one game and then disappearing for stretches.

“I’ve been off and on,” Thomas said. “One game I play good, next one is bad.”

Thomas is not far along in the recruiting process, but he listed Kentucky, Memphis, Colorado, Arizona, Tennessee, Xavier and Texas.

Three schools are standing out for the No. 7 prospect in 2013: Kentucky, Arizona and Xavier.

“For Arizona, they have good people there, good coaches,” Thomas said. “Xavier, I like the talent they have. And Kentucky, I like [John] Calipari and their style of play.”

Thomas said he plans on making a decision at the end of his junior year in high school.

“I want to go to a place where I can have fun,” he said. “I want to get my degree and go to the NBA.”

http://eye-on-college-basketball-recruiting.blogs.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/29884776/30520389

[GoMuskies]

“I want to go to a place where I can have fun,” he said. “I want to get my degree and go to the NBA.”


2 for 3 isn't bad for us.

[xu95]

I can't wait to see this board explode if he chooses Arizona.

xu95

[xu15]

Not sure if getting his degree before going to the NBA is the Calipari system. Maybe we have a shot at this kid.

[GoMuskies]

I can't wait to see this board explode if he chooses Arizona.

xu95

Yeah, I'm super excited about the prospect of losing out on a five-star guard as well. Can't wait!

[xu95]

Yeah, I'm super excited about the prospect of losing out on a five-star guard as well. Can't wait!

I didn't say I wanted him to go to Arizona, I said I can't wait to see the board explode if he did. You know money under the table, secret phone calls, etc

[GoMuskies]

So by "this board", you mean MOR.

[xu95]

So by "this board", you mean MOR.

Yes

[SixFig]

I prefer to think positive, and how this board will explode when he picks XU over Kentucky and Arizona.

[paulxu]

I prefer to think positive, and how this board will explode when he picks XU over Kentucky and Arizona.

Maybe Jordan Crawford could call him and tell him fun, degree (if you stay) and NBA are all at X.

[SixFig]

Link (http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/11/21/chris-thomas-likes-three-schools/)

South Kent star Chris Thomas says he likes three schools as of right now.

“I’m only interested in a couple of schools right now,” Thomas told Fivestarbasketball.com this past weekend at the National Prep Showcase. “Kentucky, Xavier and really Florida a little bit. That’s it now.”

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Link (http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/11/21/chris-thomas-likes-three-schools/)

South Kent star Chris Thomas says he likes three schools as of right now.

“I’m only interested in a couple of schools right now,” Thomas told Fivestarbasketball.com this past weekend at the National Prep Showcase. “Kentucky, Xavier and really Florida a little bit. That’s it now.”

Wonder what happened to AZ? Arizona fans were saying he was a done deal

[SixFig]

Wonder what happened to AZ? Arizona fans were saying he was a done deal

Don't worry I'm sure AZ will fly a private jet in the last minute and sweep him up.

In all seriousness this would be a huge get (understatement). A consensus top 5-10 player, perhaps one and done...who would step in day 1 at SG, paired with Semaj, Wells, D and M Davis, Martin...WOW

[UnCaged]

As I refuse to be sucked in to the recruiting what ifs again...I will refrain from being intensely excited about the possibility of this kid stepping foot on campus in a Xavier jersey.

However, just so you know, I am now on Nic Cage's Valley Girl Level of Excitement 1.5

[bobbiemcgee]

Well, Mack was there all weekend @ the NPS and we had 4 guys kicking butt. May help with his decision.

[MarvAlbert]

http://www.therecruitscoop.com/chris-thomas-is-wide-open

Gotta love the coach speaking for a kid that just spoke for himself. At least, a "source" says Xavier has made one of the best impressions.

[XUFan09]

http://www.therecruitscoop.com/chris-thomas-is-wide-open

Gotta love the coach speaking for a kid that just spoke for himself. At least, a "source" says Xavier has made one of the best impressions.

I imagine it was one of those: "Shit, he said that? I have to tell the media that's not true, and then convince him that the very short list was a bad idea."

[XUmeat]

http://www.therecruitscoop.com/chris-thomas-is-wide-open

Gotta love the coach speaking for a kid that just spoke for himself. At least, a "source" says Xavier has made one of the best impressions.

Is this article correct that he is now 2014??

[PMI]

It's interesting that we're still so high on Thomas' list. I thought that ship sailed long ago, just reading between the lines. He would probably be our highest ranked recruit ever, but I've always been concerned about his maturity and attitude. I hope he's turned a corner in that regard, because with our depth for the future, we're going to need only guys who buy into the team concept and system. That said, he's extremely talented and has elite potential. If Mack wants him and can get him, I'll be very excited.

[boozehound]

I'm not holding my breath. It is very difficult to get kids that highly rated. They have so many handlers in their ears trying to steer them toward a Kentucky, UNC, etc.

We may get in their final 2-3 schools, but ultimately somebody like a Kentucky is going to give a kick back to the kid's AAU coach or something and he is going to end up going elsewhere.

[Pete Delkus]

I'm sorry, I know it's the wrong forum. However, it's so funny to think of Xavier vs. Dayton in this regard.

Xavier, UK(ickback) and Florida...love that these battles off the court are becoming commonplace.

[MarvAlbert]

Is this article correct that he is now 2014??


I believe it was a typo. In the tweet about the story, the recruit scoop said he was 2013 and I've seen nothing to indicate he's reclassified.

[MarvAlbert]

Chris Thomas 'Really Likes Xavier'

http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/11/25/chris-thomas-really-likes-xavier/#more-61969

[MaurerHigh]

http://www.therecruitscoop.com/chris-thomas-is-wide-open

Gotta love the coach speaking for a kid that just spoke for himself. At least, a "source" says Xavier has made one of the best impressions.

I like that his grandmother is showing Xavier some love, and ESPN says X is in his final 3

http://www.zagsblog.com/2011/11/25/chris-thomas-really-likes-xavier/

[Juice]

Three schools are working the hardest on Chris Thomas, the Rivals No. 1 shooting guard in the Class of 2013.

“Xavier, Missouri and Iowa State,” Latonia Smith, Thomas’ grandmother, told SNY.tv Thursday by text.

Asked if Kentucky or Seton Hall were involved, Smith added, “I haven’t spoken to a coach from those universities in months.”

One source close to the recruitment described Thomas as a “high-risk, high reward” type of player who could be a “pro if he handles his business off the court.”

Smith emphasized that the 6-foot-5 Thomas was focused on getting his grades in order at South Kent (Conn.) and on graduating this spring as his first priority.

He will then spend another year in prep school.

Xavier assistant Rasheen Davis was recently at South Kent to watch Thomas, and Smith previously said Davis and Thomas enjoyed a strong relationship.

“With Chris, he really likes Xavier because the assistant coach, Rasheen Davis,” Smith said in Novermber. “He really likes the way Rasheen communicates with him and encourages him and is always in his corner, so he really likes that about him.”

http://www.zagsblog.com/2012/01/12/three-working-hardest-on-chris-thomas/#more-65130

[ArizonaXUGrad]

If he qualifies all those Pitinos of the world will suddenly be breathing down his neck again. My guess is that he doesn't qualify or partially qualifies and someone gets him in 2014.

[paulxu]

Pitinos of the world will suddenly be breathing down his neck again.

This does not present a good visual.

[waggy]

Wonder if X could be instrumental in getting in him at Hargrave?

[UCGRAD4X]

If he qualifies all those Pitinos of the world will suddenly be breathing down his neck again.

Is that what they're calling it these days?

[xufan02]

This guy has Crawford level scoring ability with big time athleticsm.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

If he qualifies all those Pitinos of the world will suddenly be breathing down his neck again. My guess is that he doesn't qualify or partially qualifies and someone gets him in 2014.

This is how I see it too. He may love X and the coaches, but the A10 is probably a dealbreaker - especially when the Kansas's/Kentucky's/UNC's come calling

[More Cowbell]

If he is a partial qualifier, I imagine X would have a good shot. That is one of the few advantages the A10 has over some BCS leagues.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

If he is a partial qualifier, I imagine X would have a good shot. That is one of the few advantages the A10 has over some BCS leagues.

That's a very good point. But it looks like Chris Thomas is transferring again...Highly doubt he'll be ready by 2013

[xu15]

DaveTelep Dave Telep
If Chris Thomas left South Kent he's put himself in a position where most of elite schools won't recruit him. Issues must outweigh talent



He's an amazing talent, but is he worth it?

[ArizonaXUGrad]

If it's just academic holding him back then yes. If it's behavioral or worse financial (him getting benefits) then no it's not worth it.

Some kids just need to get out of their town and refocus with a clean slate and they do fine.

[xu15]

DaveTelep Dave Telep
Chris Thomas has enrolled at Chipola Junior College.
about 7 hours ago

[Juice]

DaveTelep Dave Telep
Chris Thomas has enrolled at Chipola Junior College.
about 7 hours ago

Some of the national writers are on twitter calling this guy the next Willie Warren. Yikes.

[THRILLHOUSE]

RT @EvanDanielscout: JUCO scoring sensation Chris Thomas has verbally pledged to Xavier, per his assistant high school. Story on the way

[Muskiefornia]

#5 National Rivals, 5 stars on Scout and ESPN. How many years of eligibility will he have?

[smileyy]

A 6'4" SG. Interesting. And yeah, its not clear to me when he'd start at Xavier. I'm assuming this isn't for next year, or is it?

[BMoreX]

Jeff Goodman ‏ @GoodmanCBS
Xavier just landed junior college guard Chris Thomas. So, so talented -- but it'll be interesting to see how coachable he becomes.

[smileyy]

but it'll be interesting to see how coachable he becomes.

I don't think XU would pick up anyone they didn't think they could coach.

[jcubspoe]

Unbelievable pickup:

From everything I can tell, he's a 2013 (maybe even 2014). He's gonna have to qualify somehow out of JUCO, where he's only taken one year after getting his GED. I assume if he qualifies after next school year (that would be 2 years of JUCO) then he's ready to go for you guys in 2013...if not qualified, you guys probably pull the scholly at that point. Terribly high risk, but unlimited reward also.

[X-ceptional]

A 6'4" SG. Interesting. And yeah, its not clear to me when he'd start at Xavier. I'm assuming this isn't for next year, or is it?

From Zagoria (http://www.zagsblog.com/2012/01/24/chris-thomas-now-at-chipola-college/) earlier this year:



Smith (his grandmother) said the plan was for the 6-foot-5 Thomas to obtain his GED at Chipola and then begin taking courses there. Ideally, he would be ready to enroll in a Division 1 school for the 2013-14 season.

She said Xavier, Missouri, Iowa State and Seton Hall were still his leading suitors, and that Seton Hall had reached out to Headrick.

Xavier appears to remain the leader.

“He’s going to get out in 2013 so he could start the D-1 college in 2013-14,” Smith said.

[smileyy]

So that'd be 2 years at Xavier starting in '13/'14? If so, that's...interesting...because those would be Wells and Martin's last two years as well.

Here's DX on him: http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Chris-Thomas-6297/

[BMoreX]

#5 National Rivals, 5 stars on Scout and ESPN. How many years of eligibility will he have?


A 6'4" SG. Interesting. And yeah, its not clear to me when he'd start at Xavier. I'm assuming this isn't for next year, or is it?

Just tweeted at Goodman to see if he knows when he'll start playing here.

[JTG]

Sounds like J Crawford ot me. I think people thought he was uncoachable, and a head case, but Mack got him to buy in, even sitting for a year. If he's that good , Whoa Nellie, are we in for a treat.

[jcubspoe]

So that'd be 2 years at Xavier starting in '13/'14? If so, that's...interesting...because those would be Wells and Martin's last two years as well.

Here's DX on him: http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Chris-Thomas-6297/

If he's a legit Top 5 player, then you'll have him for one year, not two...lol...if you know what I mean.

[smileyy]

Also, given his eligibility and academic issues, I'll believe he'll play for Xavier the day he actually enrolls. I'll be optimistic, but I'm not gonna bank on it.

[PM Thor]

Also, given his eligibility and academic issues, I'll believe he'll play for Xavier the day he actually enrolls. I'll be optimistic, but I'm not gonna bank on it.

X2. Im optimistic, but not banking on it just yet. Plus, have we ever had a player who didn't have a diploma but instead had a GED?

I HATE dayton.

[pimpinthebox]

Don't get too excited about his senior year. Good chance he's one and one after 2013.

[aceylone7777]

We landed him.

[BMoreX]

Time to land Nerlens.

[bobbiemcgee]

Also, given his eligibility and academic issues, I'll believe he'll play for Xavier the day he actually enrolls. I'll be optimistic, but I'm not gonna bank on it.

Can't hurt that other recruits see him going to X.

[X-ceptional]

Umm... yeah...

Video 1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEg5t3rA1DQ)

Video 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sklAmzTTrxY)

[smileyy]

Don't get too excited about his senior year. Good chance he's one and one after 2013.

We'll see. Lots of highly rated prospects turn out to...well...not have as high of NBA prospects as people thought they did coming out of high school.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Discussing How many years he will be eligible is of no concern...

He had the option of getting his GED from JUCO and going straight to the NBA. He chose Xavier...

He's a one and done player. This is an incredible verbal for Xavier if he gets eligible and stay with the verbal. WOW

[XULucho27]

Umm... yeah...

Video 1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEg5t3rA1DQ)

Video 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sklAmzTTrxY)

Oh sweet Jesus. I'm tumescent.

[JAX 3758]

If his first year of eligibility is 2013, then do you guys know when his early signing day would be? Would it just be this fall like the rest of the would be seniors in high school?

[NY44]

Must read on him:
http://www.zagsblog.com/2012/04/05/chris-thomas-to-xavier/#more-70862

Only 3 years of eligibility. Very raw, maybe unstable, I'll take it at 5 in the country. Semaj a fellow 5 star+Dez+Chris Thomas= Final Four

[bobbiemcgee]

Chipola has some kind of dual enrollment deal thru the state. He could just graduate hs in '13.

[doug204]

I don't think XU would pick up anyone they didn't think they could coach.

A lot of coaches backed off Thomas a while ago for a reason, due to off the court issues.

[XUXC2009]

Here is what I found in regards to GED and NCAA eligibility, seems like you still need all the requirements of a regular HS student. Considering the issues there have been with quite a few guys in our recent past that graduated high school it doesn't seem very promising to get Thomas eligible right away:
The NCAA criteria you are looking for can be found at: http://www.ncaa.org/library/membership/division_ii_manual/2007-08/2007-08_d2_manual.pdf. Go to page 110 for Freshman Academic Requirements.


Basically, in order to be considered a "Qualifier" (i.e. eligible to practice, compete, and receive financial aid as a freshman) one must achieve a minimum 2.0 high school GPA in 14 "core courses". You must also achieve a minimum 820 SAT or 68 ACT.

There is some additional info regarding GED specifics on page 113. According to that section there is not a waiver of the core courses or SAT/ACT standards. There is a small waiver in that someone with a GED is eligible for financial aid and can practice with a college team if he/she has achieved a 45 (or 450 depending on the year taken) on the GED exam and satisfies either of the core course or SAT/ACT standards. It also appears that there is also a waiver of the need to sit out freshman year for someone with a GED who has earned at least 24 AP credits.

[RealDeal]

Is this why Myles was mad?

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Is this why Myles was mad?

He was never mad. His teammates pranked him and people on here overreacted.

[nkymuskie]

Umm... yeah...

Video 1 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEg5t3rA1DQ)

Video 2 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sklAmzTTrxY)

The first highlight video showed him making a free throw. I'm not so sure I've ever seen that in a guards mix tape before.

But I'm very, very excited. People dog on him as not being very coachable, but I just don't see Mack as someone who would accept a commitment from someone who he doesn't think he can coach. The kid is a stud and has all the physical tools. He just needs to keep his temper under control and listen to his coaches.

[Xavier]

Wow. Great pick up- really looking forward to having two five stars run the back court with Dez at the wing.

[XULucho27]

The first highlight video showed him making a free throw. I'm not so sure I've ever seen that in a guards mix tape before.

But I'm very, very excited. People dog on him as not being very coachable, but I just don't see Mack as someone who would accept a commitment from someone who he doesn't think he can coach. The kid is a stud and has all the physical tools. He just needs to keep his temper under control and listen to his coaches.

Has he even shown temper or attitude problems? As of now, all I've read or seen is that he's had academic issues. I know sometimes these can go hand-in-hand, but I've seen no mention of it. I defer to those who have been following his recruitment more closely.

[PMI]

Wow. Ridiculous talent. Can't wait.

[ammtd34]

A lot of coaches backed off Thomas a while ago for a reason, due to off the court issues.

Links?

[XUXC2009]

Has he even shown temper or attitude problems? As of now, all I've read or seen is that he's had academic issues. I know sometimes these can go hand-in-hand, but I've seen no mention of it. I defer to those who have been following his recruitment more closely.

SLAM Online has this (http://www.slamonline.com/online/news-rumors/other-news/2012/01/top-10-2013-recruit-leaves-hs-for-junior-college/) about him:


Thomas may have led last summer’s circuit in technical fouls and verbal outbursts during games, if such statistics were ever kept.

Although most of the article is rather positive about him.

[PMI]

Links?

I don't have any links other than to password-protected sites, but from what I understand there have been maturity issues that have since seemed to have gotten better. Xavier recruited him the whole time and never backed off which went a long way obviously. Of course there are causes for concern but I'm more excited than concerned. We could be a ridiculously talented team in two years if everything goes according to plan.

[bobbiemcgee]

http://www.zagsblog.com/2012/04/05/chris-thomas-to-xavier/

http://collegebasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/04/05/xaviers-chris-mack-scores-verbal-commitment-from-chipola-guard-chris-thomas/

[GIMMFD]

HUGE! So let's get our 2013 class started out with a 5 star prospect? This is amazing news, he has some downside, but the guy can attack and get to the rim, good way to start building the class.

[XULucho27]

SLAM Online has this (http://www.slamonline.com/online/news-rumors/other-news/2012/01/top-10-2013-recruit-leaves-hs-for-junior-college/) about him:

Although most of the article is rather positive about him.

Good stuff. Seems to be a bit of a maturity issue but I'm not seeing lots of red flags like actual off-court trouble, fights, confrontations with coaches, etc.

Thanks for the link.

[paulxu]

The kid is a stud and has all the physical tools. He just needs to keep his temper under control and listen to his coaches.

Son of Cheekz.

[xudash]

Good lord! What does his vertical leap measure!?

[Norman Dale]

Excited at the possibilities but very reluctant to get over excited due to so many possible pitfalls between now and the time he actually steps on campus and suits up for X. A lot of what I see with Thomas reminds me of our Nate Miles recruitment.

[X-ceptional]

Rivals 150 list for 2013 (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/recruiting/rankings/rank-2752)

Currently, XAVIER is the highest school on the list... yes, four more will eventually slide in front (or more, with rankings likely to change), but DAMN! It's nice to see it, and it's nice to see this program keep on climbing to the mountaintop...

[crazydave]

Interesting that he was at Montbello High School for a time out here in CO. That's one of the rougher high schools in town. To be an admin, you essentially had to be an MMA fighter (One of their asst. principals actually was for a time). Can't blame him for wanting to move out.

We just keep reloading.

[XULucho27]

I'm only mildly excited.

http://forgifs.com/gallery/d/27703-4/Excited-kid-birthday-party.gif

[MCXU]

Also, given his eligibility and academic issues, I'll believe he'll play for Xavier the day he actually enrolls. I'll be optimistic, but I'm not gonna bank on it.

Did someone say "academic issues"?

Problem solved.

[GIMMFD]

Change it to Commited <3

[bobbiemcgee]

Sr Rose will need to get on steroids.

[An X Fan]

Cue the Dayton righteousness in losing in 5.. 4.. 3.. 2..

[Chermy23]

Let's hope his upside is worth the potential risk.

[MCXU]

Cue the Dayton righteousness in losing in 5.. 4.. 3.. 2..

Dayton is still miffed that he chose not to play JUCO ball there.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

UC fans are already calling him a "Thug" and Xavier "Thug U"...

Because Yancy and MBoji were angels...And Lance Stephenson accidentally threw his pregnant girlfriend down the steps and slammed her head on a step 3 times

[X-ceptional]

Dayton is still miffed that he chose not to play JUCO ball there.

Post of the year.

[An X Fan]

I'm only mildly excited.

http://forgifs.com/gallery/d/27703-4/Excited-kid-birthday-party.gif

This makes me so happy.

[PattyMac1021]

I keep hearing high risk, high reward. Serious question... what exactly are we risking with him? That he causes problems among the team or that things fall through and he never actually plays a minute for Xavier?

[PM Thor]

Is anyone else following X sources on Twitter? Very cryptic sweets about something else in the works...

I HATE dayton.

[More Cowbell]

Is anyone else following X sources on Twitter? Very cryptic tweets about something else in the works...

I HATE dayton.

Can you post any? or paraphrase?

[Retire FiftyTu]

Wow, that highlight video was insane. With Semaj at the 1, Chris at the 2, and Dez at the 3, that will be a SCARY backcourt.

[More Cowbell]

Some of the national writers are on twitter calling this guy the next Willie Warren. Yikes.

Willie Warren was pretty decent in college. He plays more like Jordan Crawford(but with more of a neck).

[DC Muskie]

WAIT....WAIT...

Does this kid shake hands? I swear to God he'd better shake hands.

[BandAid]

WAIT....WAIT...

Does this kid shake hands? I swear to God he'd better shake hands.

Deal breaker.

But seriously, welcome to the family Chris.

[BandAid]

Is anyone else following X sources on Twitter? Very cryptic sweets about something else in the works...

I HATE dayton.

Ski mask on?

[Muskiefornia]

Is anyone else following X sources on Twitter? Very cryptic sweets about something else in the works...

I HATE dayton.

Nothing from Rick or Shannon that is different or cryptic.

[boozehound]

Very interesting. I'm in the camp that will be very excited when (if) he qualifies and is eligible. Definitely a crazy talent, but hopefully not another Michael Chandler situation.

[ammtd34]

What are these tweets about? It's blocked at work.

[ammtd34]

From UD Pride:


unreal, X continues to find ways to fill spots. ridiculous



Sounds like he'll fit right in at x - this from last summer after being upset by a team with no D1 prospects:

It was another unexpected turn for Hawk star Chris Thomas, a 6-foot-5 rising junior combo guard with superstar talent and a growing reputation for volatility.

"This is bad, man," said Thomas, who was slapped with a pair of technical fouls at the Super 64 and ejected from a game in Indianapolis earlier this month. "Especially to a team that we are better than."

Upset by a team with no D1 prospects? You mean like how Northland lost to Reynoldsburg? They're also suggesting a lack of institutional control. I'm not sure how they arrived at that one.

[PMI]

All I can say is, if Thomas helps lead us to the promised land, I just hope all of the Xavier fans who hate the one-and-done idea remember where they stood. Not saying I'm a fan of it necessarily, but all those who are hating the player and not the game may want to think about it if the shoe is ever on the other foot.

[xsteve1]

Per a highly regarded source. Thomas would be the most talented player to ever put on a Xavier uniform. One year is fine with me.

[Juice]

Willie Warren was pretty decent in college. He plays more like Jordan Crawford(but with more of a neck).

The statement wasn't based on talent, because Willie had it. It was based on attitude, ability to be coached, etc. Willie was a huge problem at Oklahoma.

Chad Ford said this about Warren:


Oklahoma's Willie Warren continues to free-fall down the Big Board. He's currently struggling with a case of mono, though that's not why he continues to slide. As more details emerge about Warren and how difficult he's been this year, the more NBA teams are running away. It's one thing to have a bad season. But Warren's season has been catastrophic.

Still, given his poor relationship with coach Jeff Capel, NBA scouts expect him to declare for this year's draft. When he does, teams are likely to warm up to him a bit. In a draft that's very weak on talent at the 1, Warren is one of the few players capable of playing that position in the pros.


I think and am hoping that Thomas will be different.

[ballyhoohoo]

Very interesting. I'm in the camp that will be very excited when (if) he qualifies and is eligible. Definitely a crazy talent, but hopefully not another Michael Chandler situation.

I would say this will take a different course. While Chandler had "Uncles" handling his recruitment and speaking for him, Chris has had his grandmother. Just get a different feel from that.

[West is Best]

I love his game. Congrats to him and to Coach Davis.

[PMI]

The statement wasn't based on talent, because Willie had it. It was based on attitude, ability to be coached, etc. Willie was a huge problem at Oklahoma.

Chad Ford said this about Warren:



I think and am hoping that Thomas will be different.

His current coach seems to believe Thomas is very different. I know all coaches would say something similar, for the most part, but he says Thomas is a great kid and has really grown as a person. He calls him humble and well-liked by everyone. I think with our support system at Xavier, he will do fine. Just has to stay focused in the classroom until then, because once he gets here, they will make sure that happens. I'm very excited for his potential, which is limitless.

[xufan02]

Very interesting. I'm in the camp that will be very excited when (if) he qualifies and is eligible. Definitely a crazy talent, but hopefully not another Michael Chandler situation.

It is not a Chandler situation. His uncle isn't asking for money to sign a LOI. Chris has had some on the court issues with getting T's and complaining to the refs.

[PMI]

It is not a Chandler situation. His uncle isn't asking for money to sign a LOI. Chris has had some on the court issues with getting T's and complaining to the refs.

So not only is this the biggest recruiting accomplishment ever at Xavier, but it's ALSO a nice big F YOU to the supposed donors who hate Lyons for complaining. That's what I call one nice double whammy!

[blueblob06]

So not only is this the biggest recruiting accomplishment ever at Xavier, but it's ALSO a nice big F YOU to the supposed donors who hate Lyons for complaining. That's what I call one nice double whammy!

Haha

"What's that...you don't like Lyons? Oh, welp, here's Lyons Version 2.0 for you!"

[PM Thor]

And then nothing...gah.

I HATE dayton.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

If I am reading into this right he was at Chipola CC this past year and earned his GED. He will play for said CC this upcoming year and be in CC academically. He will then transfer to XU for the 2013-14 year with 3 years of eligibility left.

He basically replaces the scholarship of Mark Lyons when he graduates. XU still has an open schollarship for the 2012-13 basketball year.

[xavierj]

If I am reading into this right he was at Chipola CC this past year and earned his GED. He will play for said CC this upcoming year and be in CC academically. He will then transfer to XU for the 2013-14 year with 3 years of eligibility left.

He basically replaces the scholarship of Mark Lyons when he graduates. XU still has an open schollarship for the 2012-13 basketball year.

But he will not play at Xavier for 3 years. He's that good. Hell he won't play 2 years at Xavier.

[Juice]

If I am reading into this right he was at Chipola CC this past year and earned his GED. He will play for said CC this upcoming year and be in CC academically. He will then transfer to XU for the 2013-14 year with 3 years of eligibility left.

He basically replaces the scholarship of Mark Lyons when he graduates. XU still has an open schollarship for the 2012-13 basketball year.

He got to Chipola sometime in the last few months.

[GoMuskies]

But he will not play at Xavier for 3 years. He's that good. Hell he won't play 2 years at Xavier.

We can only hope. If he's REALLY that good, he won't play at Xavier at all.

[Xavier]

We can only hope. If he's REALLY that good, he won't play at Xavier at all.

I kind of agree with this. If he was a sure fire one-and-done player I would be shocked if he ended up at Xavier. Regardless, it looks good and can be a good recruiting tool as well. Maybe we can use him to get other big recruits interested which would keep him on board.

[NY44]

From what I can tell about his play and situation he is literally the second coming of Jordan Crawford.

[XULucho27]

From what I can tell about his play and situation he is literally the second coming of Jordan Crawford.

x100

At least rankings-wise.

[A10fan]

I kind of agree with this. If he was a sure fire one-and-done player I would be shocked if he ended up at Xavier. Regardless, it looks good and can be a good recruiting tool as well. Maybe we can use him to get other big recruits interested which would keep him on board.

It doesn't work out well if a kid like Davon Reed was seriously thinking about coming but now backs off. Mack better get at least one year out of him or they will be seriously thin at the 2 for awhile.

[Charlesbt4]

It doesn't work out well if a kid like Davon Reed was seriously thinking about coming but now backs off. Mack better get at least one year out of him or they will be seriously thin at the 2 for awhile.

You don't turn down commitments from players that have the ability to literally change your program simply because it complicates recruiting a little.

[bobbiemcgee]

X is on the radar for every 4-5 star is the country right now. Not too worried about filling spots to tell you the truth. More like, who do WE want who can help us the most.

[Xaviertutu52]

Not sure if this has been posted, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32IgFNOo-MU looks like a true stud

[muskienick]

Not sure if this has been posted, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32IgFNOo-MU looks like a true stud

He might be great at basketball, but what if he actually says "Zip it up"!?

On another topic --- What are the Mack haters over at MM going to say now?

[nkymuskie]

SLAM Online has this (http://www.slamonline.com/online/news-rumors/other-news/2012/01/top-10-2013-recruit-leaves-hs-for-junior-college/) about him:



Although most of the article is rather positive about him.

Thank you for that. I had seen the part about leading the summer league record in T's and that is what I was basing my temper issue belief on. One of the Rivals or Scout guys had retweeted that line a few weeks ago.

[Masterofreality]

Wanna know why Xavier, and why he'll probably be "coachable"?

This from Adam Zagoria's Blog:

Chris Thomas, the Rivals No. 1 shooting guard in the Class of 2013, has committed to Xavier.

He will have three years of eligibility beginning in 2013.

“I think it came down to his relationship with Coach [Rasheen] Davis the past few years,” Chipola (Fla) College assistant Pat Blake told SNY.tv . “With all the moving around that Chris has done, I think Coach Davis had been the consistent presence and consistent coach in his life.

“To me, there wasn’t really ever another school in the picture.”

Thomas is currently at Chipola but he sat out this season after making previous stops in his home state of Colorado, Bowie (Md.) Princeton Day, Phoenix (Ariz.) Westwind Prep and South Kent (Conn.). He will suit up next season.
“With Chris, he really likes Xavier because the assistant coach, Rasheen Davis,” Latonia Smith, Chris’s grandmother, told SNY.tv, last fall. “He really likes the way Rasheen communicates with him and encourages him and is always in his corner, so he really likes that about him.”


Nuff said.

[whitesox]

But he will not play at Xavier for 3 years. He's that good. Hell he won't play 2 years at Xavier.

That's an exaggeration. He might not play 2 or 3 years at Xavier, but there are a lot of guys as good as him who do stay that long.

Look at guys in that 5-10ish range on rivals:

2011: Teague, LeBryan Nash, Quincy Miller, James McAdoo, DeAndre Daniels, Josiah Turner, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, PJ Hairston

2010: Sullinger, Brandon Knight, Tobias Harris, Cory Joseph, Perry Jones, Reggie Bullock, Will Barton, Tony Mitchell

2009: John Henson, Jordan Hamilton, Michael Snaer, Xavier Henry, Keith Gallon, Muphtaou Yarou, Lance Stephenson, Kenny Boynton, Abdul Gaddy

The point is: anyone who gets ranked that highly is very, very talented, but a ton of those talented guys stay 2, 3, even 4 years. The ones that leave after just a year are actually the minority.

[NotYourOrdinaryXFan]

Wanna know why Xavier, and why he'll probably be "coachable"?

This from Adam Zagoria's Blog:

Chris Thomas, the Rivals No. 1 shooting guard in the Class of 2013, has committed to Xavier.

He will have three years of eligibility beginning in 2013.

“I think it came down to his relationship with Coach [Rasheen] Davis the past few years,” Chipola (Fla) College assistant Pat Blake told SNY.tv . “With all the moving around that Chris has done, I think Coach Davis had been the consistent presence and consistent coach in his life.

“To me, there wasn’t really ever another school in the picture.”

Thomas is currently at Chipola but he sat out this season after making previous stops in his home state of Colorado, Bowie (Md.) Princeton Day, Phoenix (Ariz.) Westwind Prep and South Kent (Conn.). He will suit up next season.
“With Chris, he really likes Xavier because the assistant coach, Rasheen Davis,” Latonia Smith, Chris’s grandmother, told SNY.tv, last fall. “He really likes the way Rasheen communicates with him and encourages him and is always in his corner, so he really likes that about him.”


Nuff said.

So basically Coach Davis has a pretty sizable to chip that he can cash in between now and signing day?

[ReturnOfTheMack]

I love this commit but until he signs a LOI it's pretty much a DSR type of verbal. The dirty italians (pitino, cal, calhoun) will start chirping soon enough. God I hate italians.

[Retire FiftyTu]

Not sure if this has been posted, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32IgFNOo-MU looks like a true stud

I was watching this, and literally started smiling to myself. This kid is something special, no doubt. If he can get to X and be eligible by the 2013-2014 season, we will be special that year, no doubt.

[MuskiePimp23]

Is this why Myles was mad?

Myles was never mad, but he will be here next year when Thomas won't be a Muskie until the following year. I can almost guarantee you that Thomas will be a one and done player at Xavier, meaning Myles should be man to start at SG his Junior year. I think Myles will be just fine and provide and upgrade in the role Redford has played in the past in that Myles can do more than Brad can athletically, defensively, and with more of an ability to drive to the basket than Brad can.

[MuskiePimp23]

That's an exaggeration. He might not play 2 or 3 years at Xavier, but there are a lot of guys as good as him who do stay that long.

Look at guys in that 5-10ish range on rivals:

2011: Teague, LeBryan Nash, Quincy Miller, James McAdoo, DeAndre Daniels, Josiah Turner, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, PJ Hairston

2010: Sullinger, Brandon Knight, Tobias Harris, Cory Joseph, Perry Jones, Reggie Bullock, Will Barton, Tony Mitchell

2009: John Henson, Jordan Hamilton, Michael Snaer, Xavier Henry, Keith Gallon, Muphtaou Yarou, Lance Stephenson, Kenny Boynton, Abdul Gaddy

The point is: anyone who gets ranked that highly is very, very talented, but a ton of those talented guys stay 2, 3, even 4 years. The ones that leave after just a year are actually the minority.

Yes some choose to leave after 1, 2, or 3 years, but just about anyone on this leave could certainly go to the NBA after 1 year for the most part. Out of all of these players listed...Chris Thomas is probably the best pure scorer of all these guys. Plus you are not listing SG's so the positions are different. Thomas is a lottery pick type of talent, possibly top 10 talent after 1 year at Xavier. He is that good.

[Xavier]

Yes some choose to leave after 1, 2, or 3 years, but just about anyone on this leave could certainly go to the NBA after 1 year for the most part. Out of all of these players listed...Chris Thomas is probably the best pure scorer of all these guys. Plus you are not listing SG's so the positions are different. Thomas is a lottery pick type of talent, possibly top 10 talent after 1 year at Xavier. He is that good.

Come on now. He hasn't set foot on a college court and you are going to make that claim?

[ReturnOfTheMack]

Come on now. He hasn't set foot on a college court and you are going to make that claim?

I hate the chatboard speculation as you... but... Thomas is a one and done and that's about as sure a thing as JCraw was a one and done and X. I'll take him regardless. Let's just hope his commitment holds.

[kyxu]

I'm pretty giddy about this pledge, but trying to temper any excitement until he signs an LOI, or is declared eligible, for that matter.

[MuskiePimp23]

Come on now. He hasn't set foot on a college court and you are going to make that claim?

All of the talent scouts on ESPN/Rivals/Scout, etc. say he is one of the best pure scorers they have ever seen and he seems to be the consensus best scoring player in the entire 2013 class. Every site that I have read seems to indicate that he could play in the NBA probably right now. This guy is that good.

[Xavier]

Wait, I am sure I am missing something here- but if this is a sure fire one and done player, why doesn't he just declare after his JUCO season?

[Snipe]

It is exciting to read all of this stuff. I can never tell until I see a player and we have all been burned in the past, but you got to love those ratings. If our recruiting classes pan out (a big if), this team could have some exceptional talent.

I am guessing he is easily the highest rated player that we have ever brought in. Where does Semaj rank on that list? It seems like Mack and staff are killing it.

Also, make a mental note to buy Coach Davis a beer. Killin it.

I love dreaming in the offseason...

[Juice]

It is exciting to read all of this stuff. I can never tell until I see a player and we have all been burned in the past, but you got to love those ratings. If our recruiting classes pan out (a big if), this team could have some exceptional talent.

I am guessing he is easily the highest rated player that we have ever brought in. Where does Semaj rank on that list? It seems like Mack and staff are killing it.

Also, make a mental note to buy Coach Davis a beer. Killin it.

I love dreaming in the offseason...

Semaj has a huge difference in his rankings between Scout and Rivals. He is #24 on Scout and #72 on Rivals.

Thomas is top 10 on both sites.

I am hoping this verbal from Thomas helps sway other recruits in that class like Devin Williams.

[DezDispenser]

All I can say is, if Thomas helps lead us to the promised land, I just hope all of the Xavier fans who hate the one-and-done idea remember where they stood. Not saying I'm a fan of it necessarily, but all those who are hating the player and not the game may want to think about it if the shoe is ever on the other foot.


The irony of this post is too much. The fact that recruiting kids like him is what it takes to win nowadays just emphasizes the insanity of the 1 and done rule.

[DezDispenser]

Yes some choose to leave after 1, 2, or 3 years, but just about anyone on this leave could certainly go to the NBA after 1 year for the most part. Out of all of these players listed...Chris Thomas is probably the best pure scorer of all these guys. Plus you are not listing SG's so the positions are different. Thomas is a lottery pick type of talent, possibly top 10 talent after 1 year at Xavier. He is that good.



Oh boy. Just stop, please, stop. Let's wait until the kid A) puts on a Xavier uniform and B) plays in a game before we make comments about his draft potential.

I understand excitement, but let's all take a deep breath for a second here.

[X-man]

Semaj has a huge difference in his rankings between Scout and Rivals. He is #24 on Scout and #72 on Rivals.

Thomas is top 10 on both sites.

I am hoping this verbal from Thomas helps sway other recruits in that class like Devin Williams.

Rivals hasn't updated their rankings since last November. My guess is that when they do, Semaj will move up big-time.

[bleedXblue]

Oh boy. Just stop, please, stop. Let's wait until the kid A) puts on a Xavier uniform and B) plays in a game before we make comments about his draft potential.

I understand excitement, but let's all take a deep breath for a second here.

Exactly.

Better yet, lets wait until he signs before we get overly excited.

[xu15]

Rivals hasn't updated their rankings since last November. My guess is that when they do, Semaj will move up big-time.

Bingo

[MuskiePimp23]

Oh boy. Just stop, please, stop. Let's wait until the kid A) puts on a Xavier uniform and B) plays in a game before we make comments about his draft potential.

I understand excitement, but let's all take a deep breath for a second here.

Don't tell me to stop. I am just stating what the talent evaluators and scouts have already commented on this kid. This is the type of one and done talent that usually ends up at Kentucky, but we finally landed one here at Xavier. Now there is still a lot of time to go before he puts on a Xavier uniform so I am cautiously optimistic, but the kid could go directly from JUCO to the NBA. His talent is undeniable.

[bobbiemcgee]

"I don't see anything changing with regard to our ability to get on there (sp) level. Not in my lifetime." - UDPrider

[jcubspoe]

Rivals hasn't updated their rankings since last November. My guess is that when they do, Semaj will move up big-time.

I might be wrong on this, but I don't think I am: Rivals is not going to move Semaj up at all because Rivals doesn't rerank 5th year players. Semaj wasn't considered a HIGH SCHOOL player last year. It's a prep school. Oak Hill is still considered a high school. Scout is the only service I know of that reranks players and STILL includes kids that should be already in college, technically. Thus the big discrepancy between the Scout and Rivals ranking for Semaj. Semaj didn't make that jump in Scout's rankings until he was at Brewster....he wasn't a 5 star when he was in high school.

[More Cowbell]

I might be wrong on this, but I don't think I am: Rivals is not going to move Semaj up at all because Rivals doesn't rerank 5th year players. Semaj wasn't considered a HIGH SCHOOL player last year. It's a prep school. Oak Hill is still considered a high school. Scout is the only service I know of that reranks players and STILL includes kids that should be already in college, technically. Thus the big discrepancy between the Scout and Rivals ranking for Semaj. Semaj didn't make that jump in Scout's rankings until he was at Brewster....he wasn't a 5 star when he was in high school.

Are you sure about that, I thought that was just espn.

[xudash]

"I don't see anything changing with regard to our ability to get on there (sp) level. Not in my lifetime." - UDPrider

Those poor bastards.

Their heads must have exploded when this news broke the wire.

Whether he actually gets here or not, the idea that we can recruit at this level and UD can't has to be hard for the douchiest among them to swallow.

[Cheesehead]

It really sucks to be a UD fan.

I LOVE it!

[LA Muskie]

Don't tell me to stop. I am just stating what the talent evaluators and scouts have already commented on this kid. This is the type of one and done talent that usually ends up at Kentucky, but we finally landed one here at Xavier. Now there is still a lot of time to go before he puts on a Xavier uniform so I am cautiously optimistic, but the kid could go directly from JUCO to the NBA. His talent is undeniable.

If he truly can go from JUCO to the NBA then we'll never see him in a Xavier uniform. Especially if you believe he'd be a 1-and-done anyway.

[Chermy23]

Even if for some reason Thomas does not make it to XU, at least the fact that someone of his talent level has pleged and given the UD Fanbase a collective conniption is just freaking great.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Even if for some reason Thomas does not make it to XU, at least the fact that someone of his talent level has pleged and given the UD Fanbase a collective conniption is just freaking great.
I was thinking of the same thing.

[xudash]

To be fair, some of the Priders are snapping back at their own for their lame comments about Thomas and Xavier's seeming willingness to soil its reputation by recruiting such "questionable" kids.

Those of them who can think clearly cite our graduation rate and streak for seniors, and otherwise point out that Xavier puts effort and resources into helping these young men properly navigate their student-athlete duties.

Then you have assholes like the following:

Check out this commentary on C. Thomas. http://hoopdreamsmag.com/?p=2641

It calls to mind the recent discussions on this list about X taking chances on high-risk (high-reward) players where UD has not. Those high-risk kids have become significantly evident the past few years with their team's on- and off-court behavior, especially under the (lack of) control of Chris Mack. This recruit appears to be the epitome of that high-wire act by X. Another incident like the one with UC this season will really put a tarnish on their image.

I wonder where the University stands on these recruiting decisions by Mack? A lack of "institutional control"? or is it a matter of "whatever it takes to maintain (or elevate) a top 25 program"?

If you lie down with dogs, you get up with fleas.


P.S. Judging by the list on this website, with Xavier having 4 of their top 28 listed recruits, this site must be run by an X grad.

[XULucho27]

It's rationalization -- a neurotic defense mechanism -- plain and simple. It's like the DSM was written about ud fans:


"when the individual deals with emotional conflict or internal or external stressors by concealing the true motivations for his or her own thoughts, actions, or feelings through the elaboration of reassuring or self serving but incorrect explanations."

I knew my Psych degree wasn't completely useless.

[PMI]

The irony of this post is too much. The fact that recruiting kids like him is what it takes to win nowadays just emphasizes the insanity of the 1 and done rule.

Explain to me what's ironic about my post. The only irony will be what will hopefully happen in two years when many of the same people who hate and disrespect Kentucky for winning with one and dones are going to be giddy over our own one and done.

[West is Best]

I don't think this has gotten enough attention. 10 Star Backcourt!! I'm filing for a trademark.

[MuskiePimp23]

Are you sure about that, I thought that was just espn.

You are correct, this is just ESPN, I believe Dave Telep does their rankings for the most part.

Eric Bossi and Jerry Meyer have already said on rivals that Semaj is poised to make the second biggest jump of all the ranked players. They have hinted that he will be borderline 5 star or may even make the jump to 5 star status on Rivals. I don't believe they are going to update their rankings for another month or so however.

[MuskiePimp23]

If he truly can go from JUCO to the NBA then we'll never see him in a Xavier uniform. Especially if you believe he'd be a 1-and-done anyway.

He truly has the talent to do that, but having another year in college at a Division I school playing big time basketball will also give Thomas a lot more life experience and maturity to deal with having basketball being your job and having all kinds of money and other temptations thrown out at him. I believe his family wants him to go to a D-I school for at least a year to experience a bigger level of basketball before jumping straight to the NBA.

[PMI]

He truly has the talent to do that, but having another year in college at a Division I school playing big time basketball will also give Thomas a lot more life experience and maturity to deal with having basketball being your job and having all kinds of money and other temptations thrown out at him. I believe his family wants him to go to a D-I school for at least a year to experience a bigger level of basketball before jumping straight to the NBA.

I'm nervous that if he's clearly that good, he may jump before he gets here. However, I think there is something to the idea that playing at the D1 level and particularly in the NCAA tournament versus just playing in JUCO would be both attractive to him and valuable for him. It really just depends on what people tell him in terms of how highly he would likely be drafted after his JUCO year. We shall see. If nothing else, hopefully this gives us momentum with some other 2013 recruits.

[UCGRAD4X]

There's a whole lot that can happen between now and the time Thomas puts the X on.

The Snipes comment on a season being a lifetime seem appropriate. So, how long must a season AND two off-seasons be.

....long time....

It is ok to speculate - and somewhat entertaining and interesting - but to give any of it any real weight at all is pure folly.

[ItsAllAboutTheX]

It is nice to see a big time recruit commit, but when a bigger name comes calling (i.e. Kentucky) it will really test his decision. I won't believe he will play at Xavier until he actually is on the court. I have seen too many recruits jump else where in my short stint of following recruiting. A lot can happen in a young man's mind, just have to wait and see.

[Xavier]

From what I saw big name schools (Kentucky etc.) came calling then backed off. But, if this guy is close to as good as some posters are saying he will go to the NBA after his 1 JUCO year.

[GIMMFD]

From what I saw big name schools (Kentucky etc.) came calling then backed off. But, if this guy is close to as good as some posters are saying he will go to the NBA after his 1 JUCO year.

I just don't know why he would commit if he could go pro and wanted to after his JUCO year, it doesn't make sense to me.. call me crazy.

[xudash]

I just don't know why he would commit if he could go pro and wanted to after his JUCO year, it doesn't make sense to me.. call me crazy.

+1.

Also, the power players can come after him all they want, but, in his specific case, it appears as though relationships are key and important to him, especially given the lack of historical stability in his life.

If his overriding idea is to get to The League, he already knows he can get there easily through Xavier. If he chooses to enjoy the collegiate experience, why not do that with people who've been behind you without ever giving up on you.

[Muskied]

I just don't know why he would commit if he could go pro and wanted to after his JUCO year, it doesn't make sense to me.. call me crazy.

Maybe he likes Midwest College Girls, Maybe he wants to go to an NCAA Final 4.

I'm an educated man, but I don't know the commitment habits of Chris Thomas.

What I do know is that he is set to attend Xavier University in 2013.

Are these really the questions I was called here to Answer? NBA and JUCOS'S?

[PMI]

All that is well and good, but if he is going to be, say, a consensus lottery pick after his one JUCO year, he'll probably go. Why commit if there's a chance you may go? To cover your bases. I really hope he comes to Xavier and think playing in D1 and in he tournament is a great incentive for an aspiring player, but if everyone is telling him he's a sure-fire lottery pick, I would imagine he'll go. You rarely see guys get drafted high right out of JUCO so I'm not saying I think that will happen, just saying IF it happens...

[XUFan09]

Maybe he likes Midwest College Girls, Maybe he wants to go to an NCAA Final 4.

I'm an educated man, but I don't know the commitment habits of Chris Thomas.

What I do know is that he is set to attend Xavier University in 2013.

Are these really the questions I was called here to Answer? NBA and JUCOS'S?

Awesome adaptation of a great movie. I laughed out loud.

[X-ceptional]

I don't really follow the NBA much, so some of my thoughts are probably based on ignorance of the league and its operations, but Thomas wanting to spend some time at a D-I school makes sense mainly for the following reason:

-Showing he can follow through on something.

If I were an NBA team, I think it would be difficult for me to commit serious money and resources to a kid who, although it sounds like he is getting things on track, seems to have issues finishing what he started. Now, I don't know what part, if any, of NBA contracts are guaranteed, but even if nothing was guaranteed, what if a team picks him, he doesn't work out, and they just threw away a lottery pick--that's much more expensive in the long run than just a few hundred thousand, or even a couple million bucks in salary--they just wasted a lottery pick that could have led to a franchise building block had they not hypothetically "wasted" it. The NBA has been struggling in recent years, correct? Some teams are not making a profit? So, I would think teams are being much more careful regarding how they spend their money.

Xavier is in the perfect position to make a gamble like this. Even if he comes to classes for one year on scholly, but never plays a minute for X, what are the consequences? X plans to have all athletic scholarships filled, so any costs going toward Chris Thomas are already accounted for and would be going toward someone else if he weren't here, but now we've got a chance to put the top SG in the class on the floor. You take that shot every time. Heck, like others have said: even if he doesn't end up here, I still think the fact that the current highest-rated commit for 2013 has XAVIER next to his name is HUGE... other top recruits see something like that, and I think it works to X's advantage.

[blueblob06]

I don't really follow the NBA much, so some of my thoughts are probably based on ignorance of the league and its operations, but Thomas wanting to spend some time at a D-I school makes sense mainly for the following reason:

-Showing he can follow through on something.

If I were an NBA team, I think it would be difficult for me to commit serious money and resources to a kid who, although it sounds like he is getting things on track, seems to have issues finishing what he started. Now, I don't know what part, if any, of NBA contracts are guaranteed, but even if nothing was guaranteed, what if a team picks him, he doesn't work out, and they just threw away a lottery pick--that's much more expensive in the long run than just a few hundred thousand, or even a couple million bucks in salary--they just wasted a lottery pick that could have led to a franchise building block had they not hypothetically "wasted" it. The NBA has been struggling in recent years, correct? Some teams are not making a profit? So, I would think teams are being much more careful regarding how they spend their money.

Xavier is in the perfect position to make a gamble like this. Even if he comes to classes for one year on scholly, but never plays a minute for X, what are the consequences? X plans to have all athletic scholarships filled, so any costs going toward Chris Thomas are already accounted for and would be going toward someone else if he weren't here, but now we've got a chance to put the top SG in the class on the floor. You take that shot every time. Heck, like others have said: even if he doesn't end up here, I still think the fact that the current highest-rated commit for 2013 has XAVIER next to his name is HUGE... other top recruits see something like that, and I think it works to X's advantage.

I agree 100%

[Muskiefornia]

Can someone name the last successful American player (notwithstanding Brandon Jennings) since the new rule of 1 year of college went into effect? JUCO does not help draft stock.

[smileyy]

Am I the only one not hugely impressed by the videos posted?

[Muskiefornia]

Am I the only one not hugely impressed by the videos posted?

They aren't instructive? The best vid of any Xavier player I have seen was Brad Redford's.

[X Factor]

Am I the only one not hugely impressed by the videos posted?

Yes. What aren't you impressed with? His crazy athletic ability? His vision dropping dimes? His really good handles as a 6'5 guard? His ability to hit tough contested shots? Yep, sounds like your average HS player.l

[Muskied]

Yes. What aren't you impressed with? His crazy athletic ability? His vision dropping dimes? His really good handles as a 6'5 guard? His ability to hit tough contested shots? Yep, sounds like your average HS player.l

I don't know, every time I watch a mix tape video, it reminds me of when Dave Chappell did a spoof of mix tape videos. I can't concentrate on the quality at that point regardless...

http://www.comedycentral.com/video-clips/essstz/chappelle-s-show-and-1-mixtape

[Smails]

Am I the only one not hugely impressed by the videos posted?

I would say yes. What I saw looked like Jordan Crawford's skills with Dez's frame. I don't drool over recruiting tapes, but that kid looks like a program changer.

[Strange Brew]

I don't know, every time I watch a mix tape video, it reminds me of when Dave Chappell did a spoof of mix tape videos.

http://www.comedycentral.com/video-clips/essstz/chappelle-s-show-and-1-mixtape

Good.
Good.
Good.

Game....blouses. Would you like to come to my house for some pancakes?

Edit......Sorry, I thought you were referencing the Chappell show when Charlie Murphy and co played Prince w/entourage in hoops. THAT is what his mix tape looks like to me.

[PMI]

Am I the only one not hugely impressed by the videos posted?

I'm curious as to what you find unimpressive. He looks pretty nasty to me.

[xsteve1]

Am I the only one not hugely impressed by the videos posted?

I would hope. Are you drunk?

[Cincypunk.org]

Am I the only one not hugely impressed by the videos posted?

I wasn't that impressed either. I'm sure he is amazing. I'm just skeptical about recruits these days.

[X Factor]

We're you impressed with Dez's highlight tapes? John Wall? Austin Rivers?

[GoMuskies]

I couldn't get much out of the videos, either. Looked like he was playing in a league with very bad competition and no size. Maybe it's just that he's so good he made everyone else look bad. Or maybe everyone else was just bad.

[X-ceptional]

I couldn't get much out of the videos, either. Looked like he was playing in a league with very bad competition and no size. Maybe it's just that he's so good he made everyone else look bad. Or maybe everyone else was just bad.

yeah, there is a bit of a question on the level of competition, but of the two videos i posted earlier, the one was his AAU team the Colorado Hawks... hard to tell the quality of play you're getting when it comes to AAU

But, the second video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sklAmzTTrxY) is from is time at South Kent. While it doesn't seem to be a GREAT team, they play in the same prep league (or at least a lot of the same teams) as Brewster (losing to them once this season). You can see a few plays from their 10-pt win against Tilton School, featuring Nerlens Noel. From what I've seen several places, the New England Prep leagues are loaded with talent, and are a pretty decent place to hone your skills, as far as what is available before college...

[X-ceptional]

I'm trying to temper my excitement, but... DAMN, it's the first week of the 2012 off season--no college bball for half a year! If he doesn't ever play for X, oh well... for now, I'm going to enjoy the commitment

http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lsihalPHMM1qgh54x.gif

[PMI]

I couldn't get much out of the videos, either. Looked like he was playing in a league with very bad competition and no size. Maybe it's just that he's so good he made everyone else look bad. Or maybe everyone else was just bad.

Which videos are you guys watching? The last one I watched showed him cross up Nerlins Noel, the number one center in the country. It was sick. I'm astonished that people are not impressed by his talent. Competition aside, just look at his raw abilities. His shot, his handle, his leaping, his finishing on the fast break. I'm no scout, but this one is a no-brainer to me.

[MHettel]

First of all, there is absolutely NO downside to this, today.

It could play out many ways, but the the way I see it at a MINIMUM, we got our name at the top of the board for commitments as we speak. Other recruits will see that, and we could get dividends JUST from that.

Ways it could play out: From best to worst
- He stays through his eligibility and we win a few NCs. Not likely.
- He stays and we win ONE NC. Still not likely, but I'll take my chances
- He plays one or more years, stays in good standing, and takes us deep.
- He Changes his mind over the next say 6 months, giving us time to recruit a replacement.
-He keeps his comitment to us, but never arrives on campus after deciding to go the the NBA after Juco. It results in an open scholarship, with no decent players to take it.


Bottom line is the kid looks like a sure fire talent, but the story is all about his head. Many kids fit this mold, some guys make it, some guys dont. Just that simple.

Either way, TODAY, it's great news. Lets see how it plays out.

[smileyy]

Yes. What aren't you impressed with? His crazy athletic ability? His vision dropping dimes? His really good handles as a 6'5 guard? His ability to hit tough contested shots? Yep, sounds like your average HS player.l

He looks like the average really good college recruit, I guess. I don't see surefire "NBA player" in those videos I guess is what I'm trying to say.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

They don't rank him #1 SG in the class of 2013 for nothing. The scouts obvious saw enough of him to justify that ranking. Even if he only play one year at X, it is still better than not having him. Getting 5-star recruits to commit is good to get the attention of other high profile recruits. X is now in the same league as the big boys. I am all excited about it.

[Charlesbt4]

He looks like the average really good college recruit, I guess. I don't see surefire "NBA player" in those videos I guess is what I'm trying to say.

I'll keep this simple - you're an idiot.

[smileyy]

I'll keep this simple - you're an idiot.

Enlighten me. Show me something in those videos that show that he should be a first round NBA draft pick.

I mean, I don't think its him -- its the level of competition I'm seeing. I'll believe the scouts that he's a great player and a ***** recruit, but I'm not seeing an NBA level of play there, not even the Washington Wizards.

[waggy]

I agree Smiley.

People lose themselves over what someone like Brian Snow thinks. Snow is whiter than Chris Mack. And much shorter and much fatter. He's a glorified wanabee. Sorry.

[Charlesbt4]

Enlighten me. Show me something in those videos that show that he should be a first round NBA draft pick.

I mean, I don't think its him -- its the level of competition I'm seeing. I'll believe the scouts that he's a great player and a ***** recruit, but I'm not seeing an NBA level of play there, not even the Washington Wizards.

If you can't see how gifted he obviously is, there's nothing I can say that will convince you. Your viewpoint is equivalent to watching Cam Newton run past opposing defensive players while he was quarterback at AU, and concluding that those players must be slow when, in fact, Newton was just that fast.

[X Factor]

Enlighten me. Show me something in those videos that show that he should be a first round NBA draft pick.

I mean, I don't think its him -- its the level of competition I'm seeing. I'll believe the scouts that he's a great player and a ***** recruit, but I'm not seeing an NBA level of play there, not even the Washington Wizards.

He's only 17 years old right now. If you think he looks like every other good college prospect, you're crazy.

I don't personally think he's a sure fire one and done kid. He is one of the elite players in the entire country though. He can score in more ways than anyone on our roster currently. He is more advanced than Jordan Crawford was at the same age, and it's not that close.

This is the type of kid that UNC, UK, KU, and all the other "big" schools go after and land.

[smileyy]

If Thomas were doing that in a video against D-I competition, I'd be more persuaded.

So maybe you're not understanding me -- he looks like a great player. He'll probably be have NBA potential at some point. But nothing in those videos tells me that he's guaranteed to play in the NBA, either now, or after a year of D-I. He could, yes, after a year at Xavier. But would I bet my house on it? Hell no.


Edit: which is possible -- I suck at communicating my point a lot of the time

[smileyy]

I don't personally think he's a sure fire one and done kid.


That's basically what I'm saying. Thanks for being more succinct :) By all means, I wasn't trying to damn with faint praise -- I'll be glad to have him at X.

[Charlesbt4]

If Thomas were doing that in a video against D-I competition, I'd be more persuaded.

So maybe you're not understanding me -- he looks like a great player. He'll probably be have NBA potential at some point. But nothing in those videos tells me that he's guaranteed to play in the NBA, either now, or after a year of D-I. He could, yes, after a year at Xavier. But would I bet my house on it? Hell no.

Again, you're an idiot. The vast majority of shooting guards currently playing college basketball could not do what he does in those videos against the same level of competition.

[waggy]

I don't why being a 5 star recruit, #1 at his position, isn't enough? Oh no no no, he's surefire one and done. Lakers want him now. Commitment to X is a publicity stunt. Favor to his buddy Rasheen. And Smiley's an idiot.

[smileyy]

Again, you're an idiot. The vast majority of shooting guards currently playing college basketball could not do what he does in those videos against the same level of competition.

Ok, some of the body control he's showing near the rim -- doing things Jordan Crawford did at 20 when he's only 17 -- is impressive, and shows a lot of potential.

On the other hand, the guys who have gone to college as "Surefire One and Done's" and still been in college a year or two later...their numbers are legion.

[bobbiemcgee]

He is Rivals National #5. Anthony Davis was a #2. I'd say he's decent.

[X Factor]

If Thomas were doing that in a video against D-I competition, I'd be more persuaded.

So maybe you're not understanding me -- he looks like a great player. He'll probably be have NBA potential at some point. But nothing in those videos tells me that he's guaranteed to play in the NBA, either now, or after a year of D-I. He could, yes, after a year at Xavier. But would I bet my house on it? Hell no.


Edit: which is possible -- I suck at communicating my point a lot of the time

I do think he's got NBA written all over him. He is an amazing talent. I would love to see him at X for 2 years. That would be a beast of a team, if Dez is around for his senior year.

Semaj, Thomas, Dez, Reynolds, etc. Whoa.

Here is John Wall's HS mixtape. He was the #1 overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft. Chris Thomas can shoot better than Wall, about an inch taller, just as athletic, etc. I'm not saying Thomas is going to be the #1 pick, but a 1st round pick is easily imaginable in a couple of years.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4CbQGBbUOw

[Charlesbt4]

Ok, some of the body control he's showing near the rim -- doing things Jordan Crawford did at 20 when he's only 17 -- is impressive, and shows a lot of potential.

On the other hand, the guys who have gone to college as "Surefire One and Done's" and still been in college a year or two later...their numbers are legion.

The top five players in the Rivals Top 150 from 2007 to 2011:

2007: Michael Beasley; Eric Gordon; Derrick Rose; O.J. Mayo; Kyle Singler.
2008: B.J. Mullens; Jrue Holiday; Demar DeRozan; Brandon Jennings; Scotty Hopson.
2009: John Wall; DeMarcus Cousins; Derrick Favors; Avery Bradley; John Henson.
2010: Josh Selby; Harrison Barnes; Enes Kanter; Kyrie Irving; Jared Sullinger.
2011: Austin Rivers; Anthony Davis; Mike Gilchrist; Brad Beal; Marquis Teague.

Let me provide you some numbers.

Of those players in the classes from 2007 to 2010, 19 of 20 are or will be playing in the NBA. Of those 19, all were or will be first round draft picks. Of those 19, 15 played one year of basketball between high school and the NBA, while 4 played multiple years. The only exception to all of this is Scotty Hopson, who played for Tennessee for three years and went undrafted.

Of those players in the 2011 class, all will be first round draft picks and could be one-and-done, if they choose to be.

I guess what I'm trying to say is - it's a fairly good bet that Thomas has NBA talent and, potentially, could be a one-and-done player.

Knowledge dropped.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Honestly, I don't know how anyone can complain about getting a verbal pledge from a 1 and done(and granted not many X fans are)... Its mostly the UC/UD fans dragging his name through the mud

How many schools not in a BCS conference gets these caliber players? Hell, most schools in BCS conferences don't get these caliber players.

Even if he doesn't play one minute at Xavier, its a gamechanger for this program perception wise. Semaj being our first 5 star and now Chris Thomas being our first top 10 recruit. Big time recruits from all over are now taking notice.

It is incredible the level of success X has gotten, and if Mack and company keep this up, the rewards could get even higher...

[XUFan09]

Again, you're an idiot. The vast majority of shooting guards currently playing college basketball could not do what he does in those videos against the same level of competition.

Although I agree that regardless of competition, what he's able to do is NBA-level ridiculous, there's no need to be an #$%^&* to someone who just has some measured skepticism. It's not that hard to disagree with a fellow Xavier fan in a non-disparaging way.

[Charlesbt4]

Although I agree that regardless of competition, what he's able to do is NBA-level ridiculous, there's no need to be an #$%^&* to someone who just has some measured skepticism. It's not that hard to disagree with a fellow Xavier fan in a non-disparaging way.

Your calling me an "#$%^&*" in the first sentence certainly calls into question the validity of your claim in the second sentence

[smileyy]

The Wall mixtape was a good contrast. I mean, the two aren't directly comparable -- Wall is a PG, Thomas is a SG, and they have different skillsets.

What I'm not seeing out of Thomas that I do see in good NBA players (and Wall, in his video) is explosiveness to the rim, and length/reach. That's mostly what I was looking for when I said that I wasn't all that impressed _by his videos_. I am impressed by Thomas's shooting, though. Of course, we only see makes, and nothing else with respect to his shot selection.

I'm not doubting that Rivals has him rated #5 for a reason. On the other hand, if you saw those videos, and didn't already know he was #5 in the country, would everyone still be popping boners? What if he were ranked #75 instead? Would you know that he was massively underrated by the videos?

[xudash]

It's a landmark event for Xavier.

It's not the kind of news with which most people are going to go looking for negative implications upon learning about it.

Concerns, skepticism, whatever. People are free to go down those roads if they like, but what does it accomplish at this point?

IT IS FACT that the news alone elevates Xavier's status in the world of college hoops. That alone is worth celebrating. Among other things, the coaching staff has proven they can execute at this level and they've proven the program is far enough along where the 5-Star recruit finds the program as attractive as the idea of playing for the coaches.

Otherwise, questioning his ability seems odd at this point. He's rated what he's rated. He's received the press he's received for good reasons.

Enjoy this news.

Then we'll come to see if he continues to mature as a young man, setting himself up better for handling life and the academic rigors that come with being a student-athlete.

We'll eventually see whether he makes it to campus or not and, if he does, whether he continues a tradition carried forward by elite players like David West, Jordan Crawford and a few others - a tradition of committing to excellence while at Xavier; a commitment to pleasing both Sister Rose's empire and Chris Mack's empire.

[Charlesbt4]

The Wall mixtape was a good contrast. I mean, the two aren't directly comparable -- Wall is a PG, Thomas is a SG, and they have different skillsets.

What I'm not seeing out of Thomas that I do see in good NBA players (and Wall, in his video) is explosiveness to the rim, and length/reach. That's mostly what I was looking for when I said that I wasn't all that impressed _by his videos_. I am impressed by Thomas's shooting, though. Of course, we only see makes, and nothing else with respect to his shot selection.

I'm not doubting that Rivals has him rated #5 for a reason. On the other hand, if you saw those videos, and didn't already know he was #5 in the country, would everyone still be popping boners? What if he were ranked #75 instead? Would you know that he was massively underrated by the videos?

I'll leave it at this - I'm happy you don't evaluate talent for Chris Mack.

[XUFan09]

Your calling me an "#$%^&*" in the first sentence certainly calls into question the validity of your claim in the second sentence

Not really. If you're being an #$%^&*, you exclude yourself from respectful treatment, since you've already opting out in your own posts.

[KabeX]

It's a landmark event for Xavier.

It's not the kind of news with which most people are going to go looking for negative implications upon learning about it.

Concerns, skepticism, whatever. People are free to go down those roads if they like, but what does it accomplish at this point?

IT IS FACT that the news alone elevates Xavier's status in the world of college hoops. That alone is worth celebrating. Among other things, the coaching staff has proven they can execute at this level and they've proven the program is far enough along where the 5-Star recruit finds the program as attractive as the idea of playing for the coaches.

Otherwise, questioning his ability seems odd at this point. He's rated what he's rated. He's received the press he's received for good reasons.


Enjoy this news.

Then we'll come to see if he continues to mature as a young man, setting himself up better for handling life and the academic rigors that come with being a student-athlete.

We'll eventually see whether he makes it to campus or not and, if he does, whether he continues a tradition carried forward by elite players like David West, Jordan Crawford and a few others - a tradition of committing to excellence while at Xavier; a commitment to pleasing both Sister Rose's empire and Chris Mack's empire.

+1

Guys this is pretty much it. If CT never steps foot in the 'Tas we're still elevated. Why? Because kids and their "mentors" are smart. They know that X + sustained success + high level talent usually = NBA. Now Thomas appears to be far above what we're used to getting but ... maybe not. There is a reason .. sorry REASONS we're getting looks from these kids. You could argue the family atmosphere, the academics (and Sr. Rose of course) but lets face it - these kids have an avenue to the show. It's been established over the course of 20 - 25 years, maybe more. Our recent success feeds the fire. If CT is a 1 and done then so be it and hot damn. How many "non BCS" players not named Crawford or Rose over the last ten years that's done that. Enjoy this. We have MORE THAN ARRIVED. NOW KICK DOWN THE F***IN FINAL 4 DOOR.

[TUclutch]

Not really. If you're being an #$%^&*, you exclude yourself from respectful treatment, since you've already opting out in your own posts.

I have to agree. If you're an #$%^&*, you're an #$%^&*. Doesnt matter what you say next

[Titanxman04]

I have to agree. If you're an asshole, you're an #$%^&*. Doesnt matter what you say next

I'm on your side. Sorry bro, but smiley has more than backed up his claim and explained himself without really attacking you. Then you continue to call him an idiot? People disagree with me all the time on here, and just because they're wrong, doesnt mean they're idiots. Perhaps less educated. Maybe even just unwise to the ways the world works. Bt with the exception of one poster, I still respect and listen to what they say. That's how good discussion happens.

Chris Thomas = nasty good

You = #$%^&*.

Beards = awesome.

[Cincypunk.org]

yeah, there is a bit of a question on the level of competition, but of the two videos i posted earlier, the one was his AAU team the Colorado Hawks... hard to tell the quality of play you're getting when it comes to AAU

But, the second video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sklAmzTTrxY) is from is time at South Kent. While it doesn't seem to be a GREAT team, they play in the same prep league (or at least a lot of the same teams) as Brewster (losing to them once this season). You can see a few plays from their 10-pt win against Tilton School, featuring Nerlens Noel. From what I've seen several places, the New England Prep leagues are loaded with talent, and are a pretty decent place to hone your skills, as far as what is available before college...

The second video does seem a lot more impressive than the first.

[bleedXblue]

Remember when the Redford videos first came out and he was shooting 3's from practically half court ? He was making everything and looked unstoppable.

This board was giddy I tell you.....giddy.

Lets just keep this kids verbal in perspective. Lets not put him in the NBA after 1 year. A little premature to say the least.

It's ok to get excited and I'm right there with everyone else. He looks damn good.

[Cincypunk.org]

Remember when the Redford videos first came out and he was shooting 3's from practically half court ? He was making everything and looked unstoppable.

This board was giddy I tell you.....giddy.

Lets just keep this kids verbal in perspective. Lets not put him in the NBA after 1 year. A little premature to say the least.

It's ok to get excited and I'm right there with everyone else. He looks damn good.

Haha, I watched that YouTube video almost daily dreaming of 10-12 3 pointers a game @X.

[West is Best]

Remember when the Redford videos first came out and he was shooting 3's from practically half court ? He was making everything and looked unstoppable.

This board was giddy I tell you.....giddy.

Lets just keep this kids verbal in perspective. Lets not put him in the NBA after 1 year. A little premature to say the least.

It's ok to get excited and I'm right there with everyone else. He looks damn good.

A Redford comparison??? Did not expect to see that on this thread.

When a 5'11" player looks unstoppable, its completely different than when 6'5" a guard is unstoppable. Height translates well for players moving on the next level... much more so than a quick release. Thomas's is a complete package on offense, and it will translate to college hoops, end of story. If he becomes a better defender, there's no reason why an NBA team won't draft him. Fans should be giddy.

[X Factor]

Remember when the Redford videos first came out and he was shooting 3's from practically half court ? He was making everything and looked unstoppable.

This board was giddy I tell you.....giddy.

Lets just keep this kids verbal in perspective. Lets not put him in the NBA after 1 year. A little premature to say the least.

It's ok to get excited and I'm right there with everyone else. He looks damn good.

I was one of the ones who fell for the Redford highlight video. It was amazing. Still is. The difference is Redford was a 6 ft white kid with a 20 inch vertical leap. He also played against other 6 ft white kids.

Now Redford has still been an excellent shooter at the college level although the knee injury really affected him this year, imo. He has been a one dimensional player for three years.

Everything you see Chris Thomas do in those videos, he will be able to do in college. It might not be quite as easy, but he will still be able to it.

[ballyhoohoo]

Can he jump off of one foot

[Backyard Champ]

Remember when the Redford videos first came out and he was shooting 3's from practically half court ? He was making everything and looked unstoppable.

This board was giddy I tell you.....giddy.

Lets just keep this kids verbal in perspective. Lets not put him in the NBA after 1 year. A little premature to say the least.


Not a good comparison IMO. First, I don't think anyone who is smart thought Redford would dominate college basketball like he was dominating high school. Secondly, I actually thought he performed really well in his first few years before his injury. He actually came in and did exactly what I thought he would do, hit open three's. I don't think anyone thought he was more than that.

His highlight video wasn't him playing any defense, or him driving to the bucket all the time, it was shooting three's all the time from everywhere. When I think back to Redford before the injury, I remember him draining three's from deep, all around the court.

[PMI]

I agree Smiley.

People lose themselves over what someone like Brian Snow thinks. Snow is whiter than Chris Mack. And much shorter and much fatter. He's a glorified wanabee. Sorry.

I think you need to give some of us a little more credit than that. When I watch Chris Thomas' highlight videos, what I see has absolutely nothing to do with what Brian Snow or anyone else thinks. You guys may not see something special, but I do, and I think you guys are really missing it. Someone said they don't see the explosiveness and reach/length. I question that person's ability to evaluate talent. Rankings are one thing. What I have seen in the 8 or 10 videos I've watched of this kid are another. I'm actually amazed that there are multiple people who are underwhelmed with his highlight videos. What kind of high school basketball have you guys been watching?

[X-ceptional]

Yes, yes, in reality, we should all temper our X-pectations... but, again... it's the off-season, and I'm a dreamer. Agree though that the comparisons to Redford are off base... his videos were awesome, but they didn't include any plays like this :

Block:
http://gifsoup.com/view4/3591078/chris-thomas-block-o.gif

Dunk:
http://gifsoup.com/view2/3591045/chris-thomas-dunk-o.gif

In fact, while I do agree on questioning the level of competition in the vids, has Xavier ever had a shooting guard that made those plays at any level? I'm still pretty new compared with the long history of Xavier basketball, but I would be surprised... JCraw probably capable, don't remember seeing too many bursts like that. While I am still glad that Redford chose Xavier (and think that his time before injury lived up to what a lot of people thought) the things we're seeing from Thomas transfer a little better than the skills of a spot-up shooter.

A couple more videos that I didn't see posted here yet from HoopMixtape...

6'4 Chris Thomas Has GAME; Top Guard In 2013? (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_UVA-JjA7U)

6'4 Chris Thomas Official Summer Hoopmixtape! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pC6siGILeOE&feature=relmfu)

[PMI]

That kid's moves are freaking dirty. Who are you guys watching?

[Retire FiftyTu]

I think the difference between the Redford highlight videos and Thomas' is the level of competition, and the athleticism. Redford, as much as I love him, was playing against 6'3" centers. Thomas is playing in probably the best high school basketball league in the country. The other difference is the athleticism. We didn't see Brad throwing down windmills on the break. Oh well, I'm still happy to have both.

[bleedXblue]

Folks, I'm not comparing Redford to Thomas?

Please show me where I did that?

I was simply trying to illustrate that highlight videos of high school kids can be misleading. These same kids miss shots, make bad passes, play lousy D etc. You dont know the level of competition etc

Let the kid develop and play some D1 basketball before we don him an NBA lottery pick.

[Backyard Champ]

Folks, I'm not comparing Redford to Thomas?

Please show me where I did that?

I was simply trying to illustrate that highlight videos of high school kids can be misleading. These same kids miss shots, make bad passes, play lousy D etc. You dont know the level of competition etc

Let the kid develop and play some D1 basketball before we don him an NBA lottery pick.

I just don't think Redfords was misleading. I think he came in and did what he did on the highlight videos, make deep three's, and make them pretty consistently. No one was expecting him to put up the same numbers he did in high school, if they were, they were nuts.

[GIMMFD]

I didn't realize how tight of a handle he has too, the kid can drive and has pretty good vision too.. definitely a 5 star talent..

[jhelmes37]

I'm not sure why there's all this bickering and complaining. We just nabbed a consensus top 5 player. We should be fighting over what size biscuit to use.

[smileyy]

He looked good in those last two videos posted -- much more impressive than the videos from earlier in the thread. It occurs to me that those might be from when he was younger, as well. I'm seeing his quickness in the lane now.

[Art Vandelay]

Let the kid develop and play some D1 basketball before we don him an NBA lottery pick.

seriously? what difference does it make to you what some other fans expectations might be for a kid? If somebody wants to say he's Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant all rolled into one, how does that affect you? why do you care?

[Charlesbt4]

Not really. If you're being an asshole, you exclude yourself from respectful treatment, since you've already opting out in your own posts.

Well, thank you for explaining how my being a douchebag is categorically different from your being a douchebag. I simply hope that smileyy lets you come up for air every once and a while, considering how often it would appear that you're sucking on his balls.

[Xman95]

seriously? what difference does it make to you what some other fans expectations might be for a kid? If somebody wants to say he's Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant all rolled into one, how does that affect you? why do you care?

And, if you aren't concerned with what others think, why do you care what bleedxblue says?

[X-ceptional]

hmm... this got out of hand quickly...

I think we can all agree if the argument we're having is about whether or not our newest recruit is a lottery pick, that's a pretty damn nice argument to have.... so CAN'T WE ALL GET ALONG!!!

If you can't behave, I'm going to send Chris Thomas after you to break your ankles:
http://gifsoup.com/view4/3592046/chris-thomas-crossover-o.gif

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

It's a landmark event for Xavier.

It's not the kind of news with which most people are going to go looking for negative implications upon learning about it.

Concerns, skepticism, whatever. People are free to go down those roads if they like, but what does it accomplish at this point?

IT IS FACT that the news alone elevates Xavier's status in the world of college hoops. That alone is worth celebrating. Among other things, the coaching staff has proven they can execute at this level and they've proven the program is far enough along where the 5-Star recruit finds the program as attractive as the idea of playing for the coaches.

Otherwise, questioning his ability seems odd at this point. He's rated what he's rated. He's received the press he's received for good reasons.

Enjoy this news.

Then we'll come to see if he continues to mature as a young man, setting himself up better for handling life and the academic rigors that come with being a student-athlete.

We'll eventually see whether he makes it to campus or not and, if he does, whether he continues a tradition carried forward by elite players like David West, Jordan Crawford and a few others - a tradition of committing to excellence while at Xavier; a commitment to pleasing both Sister Rose's empire and Chris Mack's empire.

I'm with you. I don't know why people are complaining...

Exceptional, that GIF is sick. Just plain sick

[waggy]

I'm excited to get the guy of course. I only watched the first vid, and still haven't watched any of the others. Maybe the later ones are more impressive. Either way I don't see how it benefits anyone to have the forum set expectations for the kid as a sure one and done. Just let the kid come in and play ball.

[LA Muskie]

I don't understand the arguments or the debate on this one. I understand those that don't want to get too worked up about a 2013 recruit who may or may not ever set foot on the court for us. But every player starts with a recruitment and a commitment before he sets foot on the court. We're now 2/3 of the way there. This is very good news. You only get so much in the off-season. Let's enjoy what we've got.

[SixFig]

BTW the people who were on the "rankings don't matter" side of the argument aren't allowed to get excited. He's just another prospect right? Right? Didn't think so...