Ari Stewart (Offer)

[Muskie]

Position: SF
High School: Wheeler High School
Home Town: Marietta, Georgia
Number: TBD
Height: 6'7
Weight: 190

Offers:
Xavier, Kansas St., UAB, Georgia Tech, Wake Forest, Auburn, Tennessee, Virginia, Georgia

Others Interested:
Florida, Georgetown, Kentucky, Michigan St., Oregon, North Carolina, Miami-Fl, Florida St., Clemson,

[XU 87]

I've read on the Rivals board that 1) this guy is very good and 2) Xavier has a very good shot at getting him.

I think he even went to the Auburn game to see X play.

[Muskie]

Just looking at things. I think it will be tough to lure a Georgia kid to Ohio, if the state schools (in the ACC and SEC) come calling. Hopefully, I'm wrong.

[XU 87]

I think the big southern schools are recruiting him. And he may go to one of those. But I've read that X is in very good shape with this kid.

[xeus]

I think he even went to the Auburn game to see X play.

And he got to see Auburn, another school who has offered him, suck on the court. And he got a glimpse of their lousy faciltities.

[Lamont Sanford]

However, he did realize that he would more than likely start from Day 1 at Auburn.

I would love to land Ari Stewart and James Still for '09.

[pimpinthebox]

I heard from someone last night that he was down to the two Georgia schools and X. Can anyone confirm that?

Your Friendly Neighborhood Pimp

[DC Muskie]

I'm telling you if we land this kid that could open up a whole national recruiting tour.

COME TO XAVIER!
COME TO XAVIER!
COME TO XAVIER!

[Lamont Sanford]

I heard from someone last night that he was down to the two Georgia schools and X. Can anyone confirm that?

Your Friendly Neighborhood Pimp

I like our odds at landing Ari if we are going up against UGa and GT for his signature. Georgia has a lousy team and is a football school. GT plays in the ACC and is no threat to win the conference any time soon.

Come to Xavier, Ari!

[PM Thor]

As far as I can tell, X is very much in the mix on this kid. He specifically went to the X vs. Auburn game based on X, but on Auburns dime.

We might not get him, it is always hard to draw north out of deep south territory, but I definitely like our chances.

[muskienick]

I'd give my left testicle if we could land Ari Stewart. (But for a guy my age, that's like saying I'll give up my goal of playing for the Yankees for an extra piece of chocolate cream pie with graham cracker crust!)

[jaxalum]

The feeling I get (Muskscoop) is X definitely has a chance. CArolina is no longer in the running, but I also hear it will be VERY difficult to get him out of Georgia. Ari's a top 15 recruit so it will always be an uphill battle...although not totally paralell circumstances it was thought the Brain Walsh recruitment (08 recruit signeee) was down between MAryland and X with UM holding the lead for almost the entire recruitment...but Walsh eventually picked X, even to the suprise of Scoop Snow. At the SF 09 spot we are in a win win position if we can grab Tevin Baskin or Ari Stewart.

[jdm2000]

Any idea when we can expect a decision from Ari?

[kyxu]

Any idea when we can expect a decision from Ari?

Probably not until the summer, I've heard.

[ford]

I'm sure Ari will be watching us take on the dawgs....would be nice to put on a show.

Also will be nice to make the purdue recruits rethink their choices

[Arnold Horshack]

I saw that Virginia is getting in the battle now.

[MADXSTER]

There are alot of schools involved with Ari at the moment. ACC, SEC, Big East,and Big 12 schools and Xavier. He does like the small campus situation and his parents are very big on academics. Small campus is not a major major factor and most schools are there when it comes to academics.

I would say that his parents would be a big factor in his decision making. Which in my opinion, that's the way it should be. 17, 18 year old kids can be too easily swayed by coach talk and may not see through some of the crap that they dish out. I think that would work in Xavier's favor simply because Miller doesn't throw out crap. He tells it like it is.

[MADXSTER]

I'd give my left testicle if we could land Ari Stewart. (But for a guy my age, that's like saying I'll give up my goal of playing for the Yankees for an extra piece of chocolate cream pie with graham cracker crust!)


I'd give your left testicle too.

[kyxu]

I saw that Virginia is getting in the battle now.

I thought that too, but according to Snow, UVA is not as much of a realistic contender as Xavier and probably Georgia Tech. All I've heard for the past several weeks on Stewart is that he's far from a decision, but Xavier is in his top two or three.

[Xman95]

Anybody hearing that Michigan State is becoming more of a factor with Stewart? Izzo worries me a little because he's one of those charismatic guys and has a proven history, two benefits when trying to sell a program. Miller's getting there, but he doesn't have the national title or big conference as ammunition. Hopefully Stewart comes to X to help change that part about the title!

[Araceli]

From far away, I become very enthused about XU recruitment and the program . Its been a long climb from from my youth in the old Schmidt , through the Gardens and into Cintas. Lots of people and a line of great coaches have contributed, but Coach Miller andhis Staff have put the iceing on the cake. It seems to me that a serious kid like Ari and his family should feel attracted to X FOR ALL OF THE RIGHT REASONS and, above all, for the sensation of coaching stability. The fact that Coach is not running after the almighty dollar is a good reason to put your son under his discipline. I ´m sure that the current recruiting class would verify this. X has lots of added value for the serious recruit.

[xu95]

I haven't heard anything about MSU, but I'm not the closest to the situation either.

xu95

[Muskie]

updated to list more offers.

[Xman95]

Assuming Indiana doesn't have any major penalties dropped on it by the NCAA, do you think it's possible they could wind up being a sleeper in the Stewart/Udofia recruitment? They don't seem to be in on those guys at this point, but IU has plenty of 'ships available and Stewart has repeatedly said he would like to play with Udofia in college. IU could easily offer both and tell both that they'll be the starters in '09. Crean just might be able to sell the program, along with the fact that he coached D.Wade at Marquette.

I don't necessarily think this will play out, but it's something that I don't think should be totally counted out.

[Cincy Muskie]

It seems more and more likely Ari and Mfon are a package deal which doesn't bold well for us IMO. I think GA Tech could be the likely destination. I think the coaches who promise kids guaranteed spots in the starting lineup are asking for trouble personally.

[boozehound]

I agree with that 100%. If we have to promise Udofia a starting spot I am less interested in Stewart. Particularly if we can land Baskin.

Personally I'm not a big fan of recruits demanding things like that from a program. I could be misinterpreting Ari's stance, however.

[Juice]

Altough it is a different sport, didn't a situation like this happen to Arkansas with Mitch Mustain and some of his WR's? Nutt promised them things and allowed players to come along with Mustain and by the seasons end, the parents were meeting with the AD about Nutt. The fact that the parents got into any of that is actually quite funny, in a pathetic way.

[kyxu]

Udofia and Stewart have said they'd like to play together, but they're by no means a package deal. A lot of recruits say things like this, but it's rarely rock solid. If either finds the place that's right for them, they're going to go regardless of what the other decides.

[boozehound]

Altough it is a different sport, didn't a situation like this happen to Arkansas with Mitch Mustain and some of his WR's? Nutt promised them things and allowed players to come along with Mustain and by the seasons end, the parents were meeting with the AD about Nutt. The fact that the parents got into any of that is actually quite funny, in a pathetic way.

I agree Juice. The Mustain-Arkansas thing was hilarious. Who gets their mommy involved in a dispute with their coach???

I hope that Mustain doesn't play a single snap at USC, or in the NFL.

[xuab]

According to Dow's Blog (http://beta.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?category=blog05&plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3afdda4dab-ab39-43a7-8ba8-36da2f75a889Post%3a36880301-785e-4bdf-99df-77c4c0f84a9a&plckCommentSortOrder=TimeStampAscending&sid=sitelife.cincinnati.com) Ari is trying out for the US under 18 team. 25 players were invited by Coach Boeheim to try out for the 12 person squad.

[xu95]

I still very confident that we are in his top 3.

xu95

[Muskie]

According to Dow's Blog (http://beta.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?category=blog05&plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3afdda4dab-ab39-43a7-8ba8-36da2f75a889Post%3a36880301-785e-4bdf-99df-77c4c0f84a9a&plckCommentSortOrder=TimeStampAscending&sid=sitelife.cincinnati.com) Ari is trying out for the US under 18 team. 25 players were invited by Coach Boeheim to try out for the 12 person squad.

Doesn't that job (Boeheim's) require travel? I wasn't aware Boeheim went anywhere outside New York State to play basketball except during the Big East Season :D

[MADXSTER]

Bump

I'm just keeping my fingers crossed.

Would love to get Ari and Parrom.

[KC4X]

According to Dow's Blog (http://beta.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?category=blog05&plckController=Blog&plckScript=blogScript&plckElementId=blogDest&plckBlogPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3afdda4dab-ab39-43a7-8ba8-36da2f75a889Post%3a36880301-785e-4bdf-99df-77c4c0f84a9a&plckCommentSortOrder=TimeStampAscending&sid=sitelife.cincinnati.com) Ari is trying out for the US under 18 team. 25 players were invited by Coach Boeheim to try out for the 12 person squad.


Unfortunately, rumor has it that Ari was released along with Hollis Thompson (Georgetown commit) and Kenny Hall (Tennessee commit).

[xufan02]

Time to make the verbal Ari, Xavier only has one scholarship to give in the 2009 class now that Jordan Crawford is on board.....

[MADXSTER]

Just taking a look at the possibilites of schools that Ari is interested in...

Georgia Tech 09' recruits include SF Holsey and SF Oliver.

Georgia 08' recruit SF Leslie. Haven't signed anyone for 09'.

Wake has 5 star 08' recruit SF Aminu. Has not sign an 09' recruit.

Miami has 5 star 08' recruit SF Jones.

Oregon has 08' recruits SF Wiley, and SG's 6'5" Humphrey, 6'4" Williams

Virginia has 08' 6'6" SG Landesberg. Has not signed anyone for 09'.


GT has signed 2 09' SF's. I would think they are off the list.
Wake and Miami each have a 5 Star recruit that will be playing in front of Ari.
Georgia and Oregon both signed 08' SF's.

I think it will come down to Xavier and Virginia. Georgia may sneak if he wishes to play near home. I'm guessing that he would rather play for a contender though. If he waits till the spring signing period Wake and Miami may come back into the picture alot stronger.

[Runningman]

Nice work Mad, looks like Xavier is in the serious hunt for Stewart. He would be the ideal signing for the '09 class with CJ Anderson, BJ Raymond, and Derrick Brown all graduating (as Brown is still eligible but he may forego it). With this, conditions are in his favor as well in that he will be thrown into the mix right away. I really hope we get this kid.

[xu95]

Xavier has made it quite known to him that he is their #1 choice. I think they will reap the benefits of that as well.

xu95

[XU05and07]

we got spoiled last year with the early commits...i'm waiting to hear every day of someone committing...i do like hearing about Crawford and Halloway coming, but I want to know what's coming in the long term future

That being said...I will be patient if it means that we land Ari

[xavier513]

Scout.com has updated Ari's page saying that Ari has high interest in Oregon, Wake Forest, and Xavier, and all 3 teams have offered to him.

http://xavier.scout.com/a.z?s=442&p=8&c=1&nid=3139829

[LutherRackleyRulez]

Per Jody Demling's Recruiting blog...

Louisville Courier Journal.......



Two names to cross off the UK list of potential recruits - Mfon Udofia and Ari Stewart, who both play for Worldwide Renegades Orange.

Udofia had 20 in the loss to Wall and the D-One Sports team and then committed to Georgia Tech.

Stewart has a final five list of Miami (Fla.), Xavier, Wake Forest, Oregon and South Florida and expects to make a decision in the next few weeks. He had 22 points.





http://www.courier-journal.com/blogs/demling/blog.html

[LutherRackleyRulez]

Per Jody Demling's Recruiting blog...

Louisville Courier Journal.......



Two names to cross off the UK list of potential recruits - Mfon Udofia and Ari Stewart, who both play for Worldwide Renegades Orange.

Udofia had 20 in the loss to Wall and the D-One Sports team and then committed to Georgia Tech.

Stewart has a final five list of Miami (Fla.), Xavier, Wake Forest, Oregon and South Florida and expects to make a decision in the next few weeks. He had 22 points.





http://www.courier-journal.com/blogs/demling/blog.html

[Arnold Horshack]

I would love to land Ari. He's exactly what we need.

[Juice]

Wake is the only team that should be able to compete with us for Ari. The rest are a bunch of chumps.

[kyxu]

I'm really surprised Virginia didn't make that list. I thought for sure they would be our prime competition.

I think Oregon could be a threat, as well.

[xufan02]

I'm worried about Oregon and Wake.

[sirthought]

Don't count out South Florida. They are in big league, he could start right away (probably), and... they're in Tampa!

But I hope he see's the potential that's here for a championship and commits to XU.

[boozehound]

Xavier would be a great situation for the kid. He could come into a team with a lot of talent, that happens to be a bit thin at his position. He would have a great chance for early minutes, but would still have a lot of talented guys around him.

[Juice]

So correct me if I am wrong but after this season we will have 1 scholarship available? We will lose our two SF's in Cj Anderson and BJ Raymond. This kid is a SF and talented as hell. This is our prize/main target then correct?

This may sound sarcastic but I am just trying to straighten all of this out in my feeble brain.

[xu95]

Look for it to be a three horse race between Xavier, Wake, and Oregon, with Xavier having the slight advantage right now.

xu95

[boozehound]

We very well may lose Derrick Brown to the NBA next year. Also we will probably have someone transfer out.

We don't have a ton of scholarships left though. We need a PF and a SF. Hopefully Xavier's success at developing forwards will allow us to snag good recruits at each position.

[xu95]

Xavier is assuming they have two scholorships to give. Whether that be Andrew Taylor's or someone leaves, they are recruiting as if they have two.

Ari will go to either Xavier, Wake, or Oregon. I would put the top two at Xavier and Wake right now with us having a slight edge.

xu95

[MADXSTER]

Look for it to be a three horse race between Xavier, Wake, and Oregon, with Xavier having the slight advantage right now.

xu95

I agree. I think that Oregon would be the dark horse. I also thought that Virginia would be more of a player. That Ass kickin we gave them last year may have been too much for them to overcome.

I believe that Pat Kelsey is the main recruiter for Wake and if he is, he's doing a hell of a job.

[MADXSTER]

I know that this won't help but I would still think that the Xavier staff would bring it to Ari's attention whether directly or indirectly.

17. XAVIER MUSKETEERS, Atlantic 10
Positives: 21 conference titles (12 regular-season, 9 tourney); 19 20-win seasons; 17 NCAA berths; win over 4th-seeded Missouri in 1987, win over 3rd-seeded Nebraska in 1991
Negatives: 1 losing season; 3 All-Americans and 2 NBA top-10 picks; 15 NCAA tourney wins, the fewest of any team in the Top 25
Total points: 187
Did you know? Xavier is the highest-ranked school without a Final Four appearance. The Musketeers have made the postseason in 20 of 24 seasons, including two Elite Eight appearances. They had the best record in their conference 12 times, which certainly helped their profile.


38. WAKE FOREST DEMON DEACONS, ACC
Positives: 17 postseason berths (12 NCAA, 5 NIT); 7 All-Americans; 3 NBA top-10 picks
Negatives: 6 losing seasons; never reached the Final Four; 2 ACC regular-season titles
Total points: 98
Did you know? Wake Forest is held back a little because of the heavy hitters in the ACC who often deny it conference glory. The Tim Duncan- and Randolph Childress-led teams from the mid-'90s reached high levels of success. Recent teams have been upset by lower-seeded teams in the NCAA tournament in four of the past six trips

[Runningman]

Removed as the article quotes are subscription material from Rivals.

Here's the link instead (http://xavier.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=833351).

[DC Muskie]

I'm a moron when it comes to reading into things like this...but my gut tells me he really likes Oregon.

Whatever he decides we'll be fine here.

[XU05and07]

From that...it does sound like it's Oregon over X...but since he hasn't committed yet, Miller & Co. have some time to work their magic

[DoubleD86]

I am gonna have to third the opinion that it sounds like he is leaning towards Oregon. However, I am not giving up hope on Coach Miller and his staff!

Whatever he decides, I wish he and/or Parrom would just decide...I am starving for recruiting news!

[xufan02]

I want Xavier to get either Parrom or Ari but if it does not happen we will move on. Maybe D-Brown stays for his senior year plays the SF position, and Xavier locks a top 100 PF in the class of 2009. The one thing that we do not need to worry about is Miller and company's effort. They are going to see this thing to the end, and get us the best talent available.

Ari and Parrom are going to make the best choice for themselves and Xavier might be their choice, but if not we will get guys who want to be here, hell we already have more than we can give scholarships to.

[xu95]

I would still be surprised if he doesn't choose Xavier. Justin Young (who is one of the national writers for rivals) agrees.

xu95

[Xman95]

I would still be surprised if he doesn't choose Xavier. Justin Young (who is one of the national writers for rivals) agrees.

xu95


Based only on things I have read, I think you're going to be surprised. My guess is Xavier is still on his list as a courtesy for the hard work Miller and staff have put in. Same for a couple other schools. Stewart will wind up at Oregon.

[XUfaninJAX]

Xman-
I'd have to say that I agree with you on that point. But some other things strike me as well.... Xavier for the most has always been there, and at the top of his list when he names schools.

Ari insists he doesn't care about which conference he plays in, plus I think it is known, (especially with our schedule this year) that he will be on the main stage a couple times. I don't think this is the case with Parrom, where it looks as if he is looking for a "bigger" conference to play in.


Glad to see the article removed and thank you

[MHettel]

I though academics were a priority?

UO is a football school, and Sean should also point out their academic record.

We'll get him

[waggy]

My reaction is there are basically five teams in the running, with X and Oregon at the top. No way to know if Snow prompted Ari to talk about Oregon. I really think Ari is going to be a Muskie though.

[xufan02]

Here is some live action of Ari and his AAU team.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mYUvifVMtU

[Juice]

From Dustin Dow's blog but reported by Mike Dyer:

"Wheeler High School senior power forward Ari Stewart will make his first official visit to Xavier this weekend. Stewart, who is 6 feet 7 inches and 190 pounds, averaged about 15 points and seven rebounds as a junior at the Marietta, Ga., high school.

Stewart, who is rated the No. 12 best power forward in the 2009 class by Scout.com, is expected to arrive on Xavier's campus Friday afternoon.

He is also considering the likes of Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Michigan State, North Carolina, Oregon, Texas, UConn and Wake Forest, according to Scout.com."


Hopefully the visit goes well and he is impressed by the program.

[MADXSTER]

I hope the students show him some love.

He is actually a small forward and that is the one position IMO Xavier needs to fill.

[XU05and07]

That's a perfect time to come...that's freshman move-in day

[Juice]

Hopefully the freshman girls will have some talent to persuade him (only looking, no touching), but compared to some of those other schools he is considering I doubt it would even be close.

[xufan02]

Ari's list of schools are down to five: Xavier, Oregon, Wake Forest, South Florida, and Miami (FL). Lets hope this is the only official visit he will need to take.

[wkrq59]

Ari's list of schools are down to five: Xavier, Oregon, Wake Forest, South Florida, and Miami (FL). Lets hope this is the only official visit he will need to take.

AMEN! Brother halalujah

[XULouie]

Don't be misled, the grapevine has it that Ari is really down to 2 schools, Xavier and Oregon. He might not say it publicly but that's the deal from a lot of people that follow recruiting.

[xufan02]

I know he is only down to two but that was info given by Brian Snow in his All for One report so I posted the info that is not premium.
http://www.courier-journal.com/blogs/demling/labels/Shawn%20Kemp%20Jr..html

[Juice]

It is encouraging to know that we are competing with UK in receruiting for the last couple years. I base this off of Frease and Stewart crossing UK off of his list.

[DC Muskie]

We need to get this kid to verbal before he leaves.

COME TO XAVIER!
COME TO XAVIER!
COME TO XAVIER!

[X Factor]

Rivals just updated their 2009 Top 150 yesterday and Ari came in at #53.

Ari would be the perfect player to come in at the small forward spot. He is SUPER athletic and can stroke it from deep.

Come to Xavier Ari!!

[X Factor]

Ari should be on campus this weekend! To all of you students, make him feel at home this weekend!

He NEEDS to be a Musketeer. Come to Xavier Ari!

[MADXSTER]

Ari should be on campus this weekend! To all of you students, make him feel at home this weekend!

He NEEDS to be a Musketeer. Come to Xavier Ari!

Exactly!

COME TO XAVIER ARI !!!

[xeus]

I know he is only down to two but that was info given by Brian Snow in his All for One report so I posted the info that is not premium.
http://www.courier-journal.com/blogs/demling/labels/Shawn%20Kemp%20Jr..html

Ari being down to two schools is not "premium news" that is exclusive to Brian Snow and Rivals. And if you "know" he is down to 2 schools, don't post that he's down to 5 schools. That's misinformation.

[xufan02]

Xeus, find me a link on the internet that is not from a premium website that people pay for that shows Ari is down to two schools. You will not find one. If anything you should be telling XULouie not to rip this info off. Bush League.

I will be waiting for you to post that link.

[BlueGuy]

The whole debate of whether or not info is "premium" is tired. What if I go to work, and someone tells me they heard Ari was down to two schools, and I come on here and post it. Am I going to be accused of stealing "premium" information? Most of the stuff that is put on those sites becomes pretty common info shortly afterwords. Stop acting like rivals information is top secret sh!t.

[xufan02]

Regardless Blueguy to say that Ari is down to Xavier and Oregon at this point is untrue. There are schools who are trying to secure visits with him and I would be suprised if Ari only visits Xavier and Oregon. Then again he could visit Xavier and end his recruitment.

[MADXSTER]

Back to the topic at hand.

Ari is taking a second visit to Xavier this weekend.

We have two small forwards leaving after this season and there is plenty of opportunity for playing time if he chooses to come to Xavier. The way I look at it is that Miller has set a stage to contend for a FINAL FOUR when you look at all of the guards...Crawford(considered 1st Team Big 10 if he stayed at Indiana), Holloway(top 100), Lyons(top 150), Redford(Mr. Basketball, Michigan), Walsh(Gatorade POY Penn)....the big men in Brown (NBA bound), Love (2nd best rebounder/min NCAA)and the Big Frease(7'er top 50).

The only area to fill the final piece of the proverbial puzzle is ARI STEWART at small forward. He would fill a significant role his freshman year and have loads of experience around him to help the team contend for a Final Four.

COME TO XAVIER ARI !!!!

[BlueGuy]

Regardless Blueguy to say that Ari is down to Xavier and Oregon at this point is untrue. There are schools who are trying to secure visits with him and I would be suprised if Ari only visits Xavier and Oregon. Then again he could visit Xavier and end his recruitment.

I agree. However, I think he decides not to visit anymore schools sometime on Saturday afternoon.

[xeus]

Xeus, find me a link on the internet that is not from a premium website that people pay for that shows Ari is down to two schools. You will not find one. If anything you should be telling XULouie not to rip this info off. Bush League.

I will be waiting for you to post that link.

Don't bother waiting, I won't be searching the internet for you. If someone wants to post something they heard through the grapevine, I don't see a problem with that.

Furthermore, my point stands about intentionally posting misinformation.

Moving on ... I sincerely hope Ari has a great visit and realizes Xavier is his home and ends his recruitment.

[xufan02]

Ari has been Xavier's #1 targeted recruit from the get go. Much like Frease, Xavier has shown Ari as much love as is possible in recruiting. I have no doubt Xavier is going to put on a great visit for Ari and his mother. We have a lot to offer him both on and off the court. He also has genuine love for Mack and Miller. Come to Xavier Ari!!!!

[Xman95]

This visit is HUGE. As many have pointed out, Stewart could be the missing piece for a team that could be a national power in a couple years. If Ari comes to Xavier, we'll be looking at a team absolutely loaded with talent.

Of course, if that happens, don't get upset when the schedule gets a little weaker...because nobody will want to play us!

[MHettel]

Lets predict when Ari Commits...

1. To XU right when he gets to campus
2. To XU at the end of his trip.
3. Sunday night during his follow up phone call with Miller.

BIG commitment coming from Ari. I can feel it.

[Giddyup37]

Lets predict when Ari Commits...

1. To XU right when he gets to campus
2. To XU at the end of his trip.
3. Sunday night during his follow up phone call with Miller.

BIG commitment coming from Ari. I can feel it.

uh oh...this is a textbook definition of a jinx

[Billy]

Lets predict when Ari Commits...

1. To XU right when he gets to campus
2. To XU at the end of his trip.
3. Sunday night during his follow up phone call with Miller.

BIG commitment coming from Ari. I can feel it.

I'm not the recruiting junkie that some of you are, which is why I ask. Is this good feeling of yours based on anything Stewart has said recently...or is this just a hunch on your part?

Hope you're right!

[ChicagoX]

Of course, if that happens, don't get upset when the schedule gets a little weaker...because nobody will want to play us!

Don't be so sure about this. Xavier is no longer considered a bad loss, and on the flip side, we're now considered a good win. I can see more home and homes with BCS schools and neutral site deals like this year's Duke game in our future.

Regardless, Ari would be a great pick-up and a key piece of the puzzle in our quest for the Final Four and becoming a perennial national power.

[Juice]

I bet he visits Oregon after this, then waits a little bit, realizes that he will get big PT for a really good Xavier team, and then commits with a signed national LOI to Sean.

[MHettel]

Depends what he wants.

If he want's a smaller atmosphere, relatively close to home, playing as a campus rockstar on a top program with winning tradition, excellent coaching, and player development, he will come to XU. Oh, and he'll graudate too.

If he want's to move across the world and play for Corporation of Oregon, be surrounded by hippies, play for the # 2 program on campus (Football is #1), for a coach that is going nowhere (and I don't mean that in a good way), and a mediocre program in a good conference....then he'll go to Oregon (maybe even for 4 years, with an outside shot of getting a degree).

This is simple.

You can't help but be impresses by Oregon's facilities, and it's a great part of the country this time of year....but that new car smell goes away real quick. He's an XU type of guy and will be an XU verbal commitment by Sunday night.

[BBC 08]

I'll take #2, Alex, for a $1000.

[xufan02]

I agree with ChicagoX. Xavier is close if not on par with Memphis and Gonzaga when it comes to national preception. I think the more successfull we are the more BCS teams will want to play us. You do not see Memphis or Gonzaga struggling to schedule. If anything they are the ones saying no to some BCS teams.

[MADXSTER]

Oregon has a really good team too. They also have a need for a Small Forward. Both Xavier and Oregon are very comparable. Wake is also trying to weasel back into the picture.

As posted elsewhere:

Oregon's been to the Elite 8 twice in the past 7 years.
NCAA's 4 times in the last 7 years
2 Pac-10 Tourney titles in 7 years
1 Regular Season Pac 10 title in 7 years
3 lotto picks in the last 7 years
4 overall 1st rounders with 2 more in the 2nd round in 7 years
Building a 250 Mil Arena which will open when he gets to Oregon.
Phil Knight and Nike's backing
Storied student section
The chance to play right away
Play in the toughest conference as of now in nation.
Chance to play against many future NBA pros year in and year out in Pac-10.

Oregon's 2008 recruits*

220 6-8 PF Josh*Crittle Chicago, IL 3 star
235 6-9 C Michael*Dunigan Chicago, IL 4 star
175 6-5 SG Matthew*Humphrey Chicago, IL 4 star
165 6-1 PG Garrett*Sim Portland, OR 3 star
190 6-7 SF Drew*Wiley Springfield, OR 3 star
185 6-4 SG Teondre*Williams Lawrenceville, GA 3 star

Oregon has not received any commits for 09'.

The fact that Ari will be taking a second visit, this one being official, speaks volumes.

The biggest difference I see is that his parents will have opportunities to see him play in person if he goes to Xavier since we're in the A-10. If he goes to Oregon I would think his parents would only be able to see him play on tv when available.

[xufan02]

I will go with 4. Ari takes all his official visits including one to Wake Forest before making his decision.

[MADXSTER]

Xavier is no longer considered a bad loss

This statement is a non-factor and I don't understand why it was even mentioned. Xavier hasn't been considered a bad loss for a long long time.

Also, on a national perspective my impression is that Xavier has surpassed the Zags and only sits behind Memphis for non BCS schools. Schools don't mind playing Xavier, they just don't want to play Xavier at the Cintas Center because of our win/loss record. They don't want to play a team where they only have a 10% chance of winning on the return trip.

[MADXSTER]

This is why Ari is so important to our Final Four asperations IMO.

We will have IMO

C Frease (top 50) with 1 year experience, Love (rebounding machine, rbds/min) with much experience 5th year senior

PF Derek Brown NBA 1st rounder and 5th year senior, McLean 4th year junior

PG Crawford - considered 1st team All Big 10 if he stayed at Indiana and 3rd year sophomore, Holloway (top 100) with 1 year experience

SG - Jackson(top 100), Lyons(top 100), Redford(Mr. BB Michigan and mentioned on a national board that he may have the best outside shot of all recruits in the nation), Walsh(Gatorade POY in Penn) a stolen recruit from Maryland and had offers from Pitt, Memphis, WVU.

SF - The only area empty - Now some of the SG can be moved if need be but if we could put Ari Stewart's (top 50) name in there we would have a very wicked good team.

[DC Muskie]

I like how MH has set this up. There is no room for him not to commit. I like the positive spin.

I think the fact his Mom is coming on the trip helps us. Everyone loves their mother. And if you don't, then shame on you. Ari's Mom wants him to COME TO XAVIER. You tell just by her appearance. Ari needs to understand that when you COME TO XAVIER, great things happen. Like getting praised from DC Muskie. I saw that in the brochure they hand recruits. Ari will come to the point when he decides that he needs to COME TO XAVIER, based solely on the fact that this is the best place for him and Mother Ari Stewart.

I'll throw this out here, I will praise Ari's Mom on a regular basis if the kid comes here. Now that's a pretty awesome deal.

Make it happen Ari.

COME TO XAVIER!
COME TO XAVIER!
COME TO XAVIER!

[nuts4xu]

It is about time DC Muskie fired up his Muskiemobile and got to town with a dead hooker in his trunk!!

We haven't had a dead hooker in anyone's trunk lately, and I think it is time to re-visit this strategy.

COME TO XAVIER!!

COME TO XAVIER!!

COME TO XAVIER!!

[X Factor]

This is why Ari is so important to our Final Four asperations IMO.

We will have IMO

C Frease (top 50) with 1 year experience, Love (rebounding machine, rbds/min) with much experience 5th year senior

PF Derek Brown NBA 1st rounder and 5th year senior, McLean 4th year junior

PG Crawford - considered 1st team All Big 10 if he stayed at Indiana and 3rd year sophomore, Holloway (top 100) with 1 year experience

SG - Jackson(top 100), Lyons(top 100), Redford(Mr. BB Michigan and mentioned on a national board that he may have the best outside shot of all recruits in the nation), Walsh(Gatorade POY in Penn) a stolen recruit from Maryland and had offers from Pitt, Memphis, WVU.

SF - The only area empty - Now some of the SG can be moved if need be but if we could put Ari Stewart's (top 50) name in there we would have a very wicked good team.

Couple things, Love will be a senior in '09, but he won't be a 5th year senior.

Also, I have a feeling Derrick won't be around next year. I've seen him projected as a lottery pick in '09 and even if that doesn't happen, but he is still a guaranteed 1st rd pick, I have a hard time seeing him coming back. Remember, he will most likely graduate this year. He will be a senior academically, but only a junior in basketball.

Having said that, if Derrick does leave, Ari would probably walk right in and be our starting SF from day 1.

Either way, Ari would see plenty of minutes as a freshman.

COME TO XAVIER, ARI!!!!

[Smails]

I say a group of us gets together on Saturday morning and re-route all of the Hyde Park jogging hotties to the center of XU's campus when Ari is taking his tour. We'll tell them that XU is giving away Starbucks and Obama might make an appearance. They'll come in droves and Ari will be surrounded by the 85 hot women in Cincinnati.

It just might work

[DC Muskie]

There's only 85 hot women in Cincinnati? No way there has to be more then that. It used to be Catholic school girls soccer teams were a hot bed for hotness. Did that change, or am I way off?

[PMI]

Nope, it's 85 now.

[Jumpy]

The title of this thread was a big letdown. On the main page, it reads "Ari Stewart commitment." I opened it in haste expecting some great news. Oh well.

As far as the poll goes, I can't say. I was a lot more certain a few months ago, but all the recent Oregon talk has me concerned. I would hope that he is more than impressed enough to commit by the end of the weekend. I think Smails' idea would help tremendously.

[sylvester]

85 would be tough, the ladies just aren't that great. We could get them all if we try really hard though. Possibly the Blue Blob could drive around Hyde Park in a big van and just kidnap all the jogging hotties for an hour or so and then release them, hypnotized to the point of everyone just gushing about the greatness of Xavier, at the greenspace. That might work.

[Firehose]

Dear Mrs. Cine Stewart Dixon.

My name's Firehose and I would just personally like to welcome you and your son to campus. According to some profiles I've read, Ari would like to study business management during undergrad. Well, as it happens, Xavier's Williams College of Business is not only the #2 Undergraduate Business School in the Region, but its growth and development is one of the key points of the Great Wonders Campaign. Furthermore, academics are an unflinching priority at Xavier and I'm sure that someone as driven as Ari with his 3.3 GPA will have no trouble joining the proud tradition of student athletes that graduate in four years.

As far as the basketball court goes, Ari will be welcomed with open arms. Our starting Small Forward, CJ Anderson, will be graduating and that position will be one of particular need in the year to come. I'm sure that you're already aware of that, however, let me tell you something that you may not know. At Xavier, we want our student-athletes to succeed not only in games, but also in life. I cannot tell you how personally proud I was to sit next to Stanley Burrell at graduation and realize that his future did not hinge on basketball, and while I wish him all the luck in the world playing professionally, I also know that a Xavier degree will serve him as well as tenacious defense. Certainly, many years from now, Ari will look back on his Xavier degree with as much if not more pride than his accomplishments on the court.

Also, I would encourage you to look at basketball alumni. Byron Larkin, Xavier's all-time leading scorer, is a beloved commentator for Xavier basketball and an active member of the immediate Xavier community. Gary Massa, another basketball Hall-of-Famer, is now the Vice President for University Relations and received both his BA and MBA at Xavier. Tyrone Hill, member of the 2000 point club, all-time leading rebounder, and former first round pick, is now coaching the Atlanta Hawks. Xavier graduates are successful on and off of the basketball court. They have the skills and poise to execute both a crucial defensive stop in the closing seconds of a game and a major corporate merger. Xavier grads know that they were surrounded by people who cared about them, not only as community figures, but also as young men and women like any other student.

Mrs. Stewart Dixon, I hope that my little proclamation has helped you, and Ari, I hope that it helps you as well. We want you to come to Xavier and help us win a national championship, but we also want you to graduate in 4 years with a degree that you can be proud of. The tides have changed in the national basketball landscape and new powers emerge while across town, the robber baron fades to nothingness. You are coming to Xavier at a very exciting time and we are very, very excited to have you.

All for one and one for all!

Firehose

[MADXSTER]

Firehose,

Magnificent letter. I will drink a beer to you tonight.

[MADXSTER]

Do you think they've taken him into the locker room yet?

http://blogs.smh.com.au/lifestyle/allmenareliars/Missbondigroupshot.jpg

[XUfaninJAX]

Firehose,
Great letter, if I had been good enough to receive an offer years ago, I would have signed up after reading that letter.

Hopefully Ari makes the best decision for him, which obviously I think would be Xavier.

Just a couple signatures on the dotted lines and we will be set.

Come to X Ari, you won't regret it!

[MADXSTER]

No word yet from anyone on campus....calling all muskies, please be on the lookout for a 6'7" small forward stud and report back here.

[MADXSTER]

It sure is a beautiful day to commit, isn't it. If I were a recruit taking a visit on a beautiful day like today, I think I'd commit just because. I'm just sayin....

[MADXSTER]

Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!
Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!
Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!

[MADXSTER]

Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!
Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!
Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!

[MADXSTER]

Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!
Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!
Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!

[MADXSTER]

Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!
Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!
Come To Xavier, Ari!!!!

[DoubleD86]

Any news? Anyone know how his visit went or anything like that?

[Frambo]

any word on how the visit went?

[xufan02]

He is going to take all his visits and then make a decision. He still has visits to Wake Forest and Oregon. I would imagine that he will make up his mind after his Oregon visit the weekend of Sept 19th. Ari is going to take his sweet time and enjoy the process. Hopefully from now until then Xavier will continue to show him the love.

[wkrq59]

Has anyone heard anything about the visit of Ari Stewart to campus last weekend to ?
Everything has been strangely quiet since Sunday. Anyone at the AFO Outing hear anything? I know Sean can't say anything or even hint, but surely somebody was talking about it.:confused:

[Man Behind The Curtain]

Sounds like it is down to XU and Oregon and a decision should be forthcoming sooner than later. If the parents have their way he'll be suiting up in Cintas next year.

[kyxu]

Has anyone heard anything about the visit of Ari Stewart to campus last weekend to ?
Everything has been strangely quiet since Sunday. Anyone at the AFO Outing hear anything? I know Sean can't say anything or even hint, but surely somebody was talking about it.:confused:

All that's been written about it is that it went very well. He visits Oregon soon, so you'd imagine that a decision would come shortly thereafter.

[Xman95]

I don't think there's any doubting my loyalties and, honestly, I think he's gonna be a Duck. I'll be SHOCKED if Ari comes to Xavier. I think it would be the better choice for him based on what I have read (that's not to say X is always the better choice), but I don't think it's going to happen. I think that's part of why Oregon is his last visit. He's enjoying the process and getting trips in, but he'll commit at that last stop. Hopefully I'm wrong, but that's the way I see it.

FYI -- I have no idea if Arnold is a Dayton fan or not!

[X Factor]

I don't think there's any doubting my loyalties and, honestly, I think he's gonna be a Duck. I'll be SHOCKED if Ari comes to Xavier. I think it would be the better choice for him based on what I have read (that's not to say X is always the better choice), but I don't think it's going to happen. I think that's part of why Oregon is his last visit. He's enjoying the process and getting trips in, but he'll commit at that last stop. Hopefully I'm wrong, but that's the way I see it.

FYI -- I have no idea if Arnold is a Dayton fan or not!

Just wondering, why do you think Oregon would be the better choice for him? What have you read that would lead you to believe that? I'm pretty sure Sean Miller thinks Xavier would be the better choice for Ari.

If Brown leaves next year, the SF position would pretty much be Ari's from day one. He would be the perfect guy to step in and take over. He's got great size, is long and super athletic, pretty much just like Derrick.

I really hope Ari chooses Xavier.

Come to Xavier Ari!!!!

[Xman95]

I guess I wasn't clear. I actually meant that I think Xavier is the better choice for Stewart. I think it would be a better fit. XU isn't always the best choice for a kid, but I think it is in this case. Unfortunately I just don't see that being Stewart's ultimate choice. Oh well, I guess he can watch with Ernie Kent when the Muskies play during the NCAA Tournament's 3rd weekend in a couple years!

[wkrq59]

I'm curious. Is Ari's mother going with him to Oregon? Is that visit still a certainty? And didn't Oregon just sign a couple of players who play Ari's position? I wonder what his Mom's opinion was of Xavier?:D

[xufan02]

Oregon does not have any verbals for the 2009 class, also do not discount Wake Forest they are going to get a visit too. It appears Xavier is out of the picture.

[BlueGuy]

I don't like when they leave, without committing. Xavier is pretty darn bad ass and all. I don't know how we look when you compare it to a major D1 football school on gameday though. I'm afraid he's going to visit Oregon on a game day. I think it's impossible to not get caught up in that whole scene.

Miller and his crew have their work cut out for them.

[X-man]

I think there is a good chance that we will hear one way or the other by the end of this week. If so, that hopefully bodes well for the Muskies.

[jdm2000]

Oregon does not have any verbals for the 2009 class, also do not discount Wake Forest they are going to get a visit too. It appears Xavier is out of the picture.

Just curious, why do you think XU is out of the picture?

[X Factor]

What happened that now Xavier is out of the picture for Ari?

He made an official visit, and now X is out without Ari visiting any other schools.

I thought X was in his top 2 or 3. What changed so quickly?

Very disappointed if true.

[xufan02]

Just curious, why do you think XU is out of the picture?

There is a GT poster on rivals who knows his stuff and he posted on the Oregon board that Air Stewart is Oregon's to lose. It is a non premium messageboard here is the link.

http://oregon.rivals.com/showmsg.asp?fid=2448&tid=114630470&mid=114630470&sid=1065&style=2

[Juice]

There is a GT poster on rivals who knows his stuff and he posted on the Oregon board that Air Stewart is Oregon's to lose. It is a non premium messageboard here is the link.

http://oregon.rivals.com/showmsg.asp?fid=2448&tid=114630470&mid=114630470&sid=1065&style=2

I saw the link and I am not trying to make fun of you, but what does that GT guy know? Obviously he is from Georgia but other than that, what is his connection?

I, myself, knowing nothing about Ari than what I read on this site, think that he is still undecided and honestly wants to see each school before he makes his decision. Xavier and Oregon are so different that I believe that he needs to visit each school and weigh the pros and cons of each one (big/small school, catholic/public school, etc.). I think that Ari is totally undecided and will make the decision after he visits Oregon and WF (he is visiting there correct?).

So the point of my rambling is that I don't think Ari is Oregon's or Xavier's to lose, but simply is out there to win by any school who can offer him what he is looking for.

[xufan02]

Juice, lets just say that GTland03's post echoes the same sentiment as those in the know.

[X-man]

Juice, lets just say that GTland03's post echoes the same sentiment as those in the know.

xufan02, I have had conversations with "those in the know" and they certainly do not share the sentiment of GTland03's post. You and I obviously have different "inside" sources. Unless you can be more specific regarding your "in the know" sources, I'll stick with mine. Mine say Ari is definitely not Oregon's to lose.

[xufan02]

X-man, feel free to stick with your sources, I'm not changing my position, but I'm going to stand back and let this one play out.

[PM Thor]

02 is not so subtly refferring to the rivals pay site, where it is being stated almost emphatically that Ari will not be coming to X.

Sadly, I tend to agree. But things might change, who knows with these wacky kids nowadays.

[_LH]

No offense to B. Snow be he has been wrong before (not that he is for sure wrong in this case) and I am sure he will be wrong again in the future.

[Xman95]

We're willing to take any news that says we're in the running for a top prospect, but not as willing to accept reports that we're out. Here's the way I see it: X was the perfect place for Stewart if he wanted to come here. It seems he doesn't so he can go watch us play after his school gets bounced. At least at Oregon he'll have easy access to a pair of Nike shoes.

[xufan02]

I could get a good look at a T-bone by sticking my head up a bulls a@@ but I'll take the butcher's word for it. I'll take my chances with the people who get paid to follow recruiting for a living. I was looking forward to seeing Ari in Xavier blue, but I'm hearing otherwise.

[xeus]

I could get a good look at a T-bone by sticking my head up a bulls a@@

That's not true, but go ahead and give it a shot.

[MADXSTER]

He's waiting.....

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/139/377889440_601923a965.jpg?v=0

[AviatorX]

He's waiting.....

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/139/377889440_601923a965.jpg?v=0

Haha. From time to time I actually laugh while reading posts, this was one of them.

[PM Thor]

He's waiting.....

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/139/377889440_601923a965.jpg?v=0

Not to nitpick, but shouldn't it be....

"He's waiting....
http://www.cupsuptic.org/images/Disney03Cow.jpg

[xufan02]

Obviously you guys need to see the movie Tommy Boy, but funny none the less.

[Xman95]

02, I knew exactly what you were talking about. "What have I done? I killed my sale."

[GoMuskies]

I now predict that Ari Stewart will be a big bust...but I am just a bitter old man who holds grudges against 17 year-olds.

[waggy]

So much of recruiting discussion is a lot of hot air.

Of course, internet forum discussion on the whole is pretty much the same. But something about recruiting that leaves me with the impression that I should take everything I read with a healthy amount of skepticism.

[XU Dozer]

Me likey wingies!!!!

[X-man]

According to Scout, Stewart now has official visits scheduled at both Wake and Oregon in September. If true, this doesn't bode well for the Muskies IMHO. However that same site doesn't show that Ari officially visited Xavier so it may be wrong on all counts.

[XU 87]

Per Rivals, there is virtually no chance that Ari is coming to Xavier.

[Xman95]

It seems safe to say that the coaching staff has hopefully moved on and is putting a big push on the next couple of guys on their list. Ari's going to the NW.

[MHettel]

Ok, so what's the deal with Ari stewart?

We're basically on this kid from Day 1. made him our #1 priority. He turns down a whole list of top programs that showed interest. XU stays at #1. Wake has been on the list, then SUDDENLY OREGON?

Not a great school. Decent team and coach. No history, no future. Football and the Pacific Northwest....a kid from Georgia.

So, we finally get him on campus, after being our top priority, and he leaves campus not only without a commitment, but pretty much drops us over the next few days without even having made any other official visits?

Can someone explain that?

The only thing I can think of is that maybe the staff told him that he's essentially gotta "guarantee" that he'll get a diploma. Are we at that point? Do we tell him that 2-and-done is not the way we do it here?

If thats what we're doing, then I'm totally fine with that. We've had phenominal program continuity over the last 20 years, and part of that is due to the fact that we always have veteran seniors that essentially coach the newbies. Guys leaving early erodes that.

Thats my theory. Anyone got anything better?

[kyxu]

I remember very early in Xavier's recruiting process of Ari Stewart, Brian Snow saying that Ari was not a "one and done" player; that getting an education was very important to both Ari and his parents. So I'm not sure that the "we're not a two-and-done program" is an accurate theory.

I don't know if you have a rivals subscription, and I'll respect Snow's premium content, but there doesn't seem a whole lot to report on what happened with Stewart. No one really knows the reason, but it doesn't sound like both are on the same terms they were a few weeks ago.

From my own personal opinion, whenever Ari would speak about Xavier in an interview, his words always seemed overly conciliatory, like Xavier was the really nice, really sweet girl he was about to dump. He would talk about how much he loved Xavier and how much he always would, but that was it.

Don't really know what's drawn him to Wake or Oregon and away from Xavier, but he's a kid. It could be one of many reasons. Sure, Oregon might not be Final Four-bound each year, but they are in the Pac-10, probably have pretty attractive co-eds and are Phil Knight U.

[PM Thor]

No, I do not think in any way that the program was looking for a "guarantee" that he would stick around until he graduates. X never did that before, and I believe will never do that in the future.

What I would think happened here is that the coaches simply cannot wait around any further for this young man to make up his mind.

X can't be on the hook for one player to decide where he is going, while other players are still in the mix. It's a hard thing to swallow, but in my estimation, if he hadn't committed after the visits that he has made, then there is nothing else that the program and coaches could do to sway him, so, they move on to other possible commitments.

It happens, but the future isn't bleak in the least for this class. If it were, then X would have been willing to wait as long as possible for Stewart. Since X isn't waiting around, I am pretty certain that they feel confident in our chances with other highly touted recruits for this class.

[Muskie73]

Should Ari not come to XU, I would find it both ironic and amusing that he would go to another school, find out that we were the school for him and then try to transfer back to us. Probably not realistic but an interesting thought.

[MHettel]

That would never happen. Just ask Jordan Crawford.

[MHettel]

So I'm just throwing a longshot scenario out there, but it doesn't sound any worse than any of the other explanations I've heard.

I would say that at this point, since he's the highest rated kid that we still have interest in, and he's been a #1 target from the beginning....that we wouldn't just cut bait cause he left campus without a commitment. Makes no sense.

I have no reason to beleive we soured on the kid.

What the facts are vs. the current state of his recruitment just don't make sense. I'm kind of looking for a reason why there is suddenly an elimination of XU, and subsequently common knowledge of this, but no reason...all before his final visits? Why not just keep it quiet, and not pick XU on the day he declares a final decision?

Strange

[kyxu]

I think Thor's explanation seems closest to the truth.

[MADXSTER]

I'm just throwing this out there and do not have any inside info.

Maybe XU has knowledge that that they are able to wrap up two commitments but were holding out on Ari. Maybe they needed to really know where he stood so they wouldn't loose out on the other two. Maybe a discussion took place as a matter of respect for each other so that both parties truly knew where they stood. Maybe they didn't wish to wait for Ari to annouce his final decision because one of the other recruits would be gone to another school by then.

All speculation.

Who knows, if all was handled properly, Ari may be in Crawford's shoes before too long and looking to see if we have any openings available.

[DC Muskie]

I don't understand why people think Oregon is a horrible school. People do go there to play basketball. They do go there to take classes. We can't act on one hand from getting guys to come to Xavier despite offers from other known schools that somehow the kid was wise, then turn around a slam a kid because Xavier is on the other end.

He's an 18 year old kid. It's his life. Best of luck to him.

[DoubleD86]

Am I missing something? I have not heard of a disenfranchisement between Ari and Xavier?

I thought the latest info was he was just keeping quiet. Why is it assumed Xavier is out of the running?

If so, I would have to imagine Thor's theory is the closest. With players like Braswell and Parrom in the mix, Xavier can not wait and see on Stewart and then miss, only to see Braswell and Parrom choose somewhere else not wanting to wait on XU.

If Stewart does choose Oregon, and Xavier gets Braswell or Parrom, I still think it is a great class!

[xudash]

Am I missing something? I have not heard of a disenfranchisement between Ari and Xavier?

I thought the latest info was he was just keeping quiet. Why is it assumed Xavier is out of the running?

If so, I would have to imagine Thor's theory is the closest. With players like Braswell and Parrom in the mix, Xavier can not wait and see on Stewart and then miss, only to see Braswell and Parrom choose somewhere else not wanting to wait on XU.

If Stewart does choose Oregon, and Xavier gets Braswell or Parrom, I still think it is a great class!

I'm asking the same question: did he announce that Xavier is officially out of the running?

So he comes to campus, but leaves without committing. I'm sorry, but as much as I enjoy the stories of certain kids coming to campus and committing on the spot, I would imagine that kids at this level - this very high level - are going to be careful and evaluate all their options. All kids will be careful doing that, but it is relative: the more talented the player, the more options they obviously have before them.

Oregon? I hear Oregon and I think PAC 10 and Phil Knight, which has been mentioned. But I also see the Pacific Northwest and relatively remote media coverage. I see ducks playing football before basketball, though I understand that they want it all. I don't see enough umphh in the Oregon name for them to pull Ari away from us, but I see him wanting to go up there and look at it so that he confirms in his own mind that he made the right decision to come to Xavier.

[PMI]

I just can't see any realistic advantage that Oregon has over Xavier when it comes to offering an 18 year old a place to spend his four years.

http://api.ning.com/files/v8dtJqwDxMyzHbdz4KHwtYxlAryq3WMXJg3HIwFHtsE_/18290389.jpeg

I mean, Xavier clearly appears to be the program in the better shape between the two, we have a great coach while they have one who may be on the hot seat, and we have a need at his position. Wouldn't we be the obvious choice?

http://www.humorpass.com/media/Pictures/hot-oregon-cheerleaders.jpg

Perhaps I'm just missing something here because sometimes things fly right over my head, but what can Oregon offer that Ari can't get in Cincinnati? Rain? No, Ohio gets plenty of that too. Plus, we have state of the art facilities for the basketball team just like they do.

http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd155/isaacand/Oregon-1.jpg

And academically, I'm very confident that Xavier can offer Ari as good an education as Oregon. Plus, he would have Sr. Flemming guiding him properly. What am I missing?

http://api.ning.com/files/JbnLqLBUaXltA5lTVzVlYTYQqtVnVstnN1SOcPR1TLU_/oregoncheerleader2.jpg

[PMI]

He'd be closer to home in Ohio than in Oregon.

http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2007/sioncampus/10/04/cheer.week/p1_kelsi.jpg

Cincinnati has better chili and Graeter's ice cream.

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/04PueFa7jx7If/340x.jpg

There are pro football and baseball teams in town, and while they may not combine for as many wins as XU hoops will rack up, at least he will have the option of checking out some games.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2160/2242557385_ac0369348d.jpg?v=0

I guess I'll just never understand why he doesn't just commit to Xavier right off the bat after visiting our campus. It's a total mystery to me.

http://heinrichtailgater.com/images/duck_cheerleader.jpg

Alright, too far.

[Smooth]

That close to a rep.

[xudash]

PMI,

You sh!t the bed on the way to greatness. Damn.

[PMI]

Story of my life. I'm rolling the whole way home and then BAM! Blew it. Oh well, must be the Skins fan in me because it sure isn't a Muskie thing.

[pain train]

PMI, funny stuff.

[xudash]

FYI.

From (http://ducksattack.com/?p=204)

According to Scout.com’s bio of Ari Stewart the Ducks are hosting Stewart for an official visit on September 20th, which happens to fall on the same date the Oregon Football, program plays host to Boise State.

Ari Stewart is a 6′7 185 pound Small Forward out of Wheeler High School in Marietta, GA. Stewart has offers from Oregon, Arizona, Clemson, UConn, Florida, Michigan State, Georgia, North Caroline State, Texas, UAB, Xavier, and Wake Forest.

He recently took a visit to Xavier and outside of his visit to Oregon Stewart will visit Wake Forest on the 6th of September.

It’s been rumored that Stewart has narrowed his selection down to Oregon, Wake Forest, and Xavier and now seeing the latest school interest update on Scout.com it is safe to say that rumor is true.

Getting Stewart to take his last visit to Oregon will be key in the attempts the Ducks sign Stewart. With his visit to Oregon fresh in his mind the Ducks look poised to be a key player due to the awesome Eugene fall weather, Oregon football game atmosphere, and the most important aspect, Ernie Kent and his canny ability to recruit top talent.

So I respect the PAC 10 and I respect Boise State, but a kid who grew up in SEC country MAY not think too highly of Ducks, remarkably ugly uniforms, and that team which plays on a blue carpet, going at it in Eugene.

[Xman95]

Do yourself a favor and don't worry about Ari at this point. (Of course I'm reading this thread so...)

[wkrq59]

PMI, that goes down as one of the best understated posts in the history of blogs or any other offerings. WOW.

[xu95]

Ari is gone. It is time to move on to King Kev.

xu95

[Juice]

Ari committed somewhere else or thats your thinking?

[xu95]

It's not my thinking. It is a lot of people's thinking. Something has happened between Xavier and Ari that no one but those two parties know about, but he is not coming to Xavier.

xu95

[Juice]

Ok, I just didnt know if he made it official or not over the weekend and I had not heard.

[sash19]

Ari does not seem to know what to do at this point. However, the Xavier option is not one of them.....

[MHettel]

CAN I GET A FREAKIN ANSWER?

I said in a different post that maybe Miller told Stewart that "he's gotta commit to staying 4 years to earn a degree". Maybe Ari didn't like that and said he can't commit tto it.

Hell, I have no idea whether that happened or not, but at least it's a THEORY!

Ari was #1 on our list, and he had us in his top 3. We finally get him to campus, and he basically leaves and everyone around here seems to "understand" that he won't be coming to XU. Based on what? Who said what to whom? Where did the sales pitch go wrong? Did HE show up with a bad attitude?


Whats the reason? I refuse to just accept that some people "know". THERE IS A REASON.

[xufan02]

Based on every single Rivals.com employee who has talked to Ari. Xavier is no longer in the mix. Xavier and Ari decided to go in different directions. Xavier was not willing to wait any more and Ari wanted to continue his recruitment. Xavier said either shit or get off the pot, and Ari said I'll get off the pot.

[_LH]

I wish I could help you out but I don't know more than what I read on here. Those that subscribe to B. Snow's board or know him personally are the ones writing that Ari is not coming to XU. I am sure if you subsribe to Snow's site you will learn what they seem to know and refuse to share.

[xufan02]

If you need even more proof Stewart is not coming to Xavier read this. You will need to scroll down a bit.

http://ducksattack.com/?paged=2

[BBC 08]

After reading that bit on Ducks Attack, it looks like the 'Shit or Get off the pot' theory is correct. Oh well, can't get them all. I will say though that once Ari does declare which school he is going to, I have an interesting story to share about him and his unofficial visit to X last year.

[X-man]

Based on every single Rivals.com employee who has talked to Ari. Xavier is no longer in the mix. Xavier and Ari decided to go in different directions. Xavier was not willing to wait any more and Ari wanted to continue his recruitment. Xavier said either shit or get off the pot, and Ari said I'll get off the pot.

I had precisely that story early in the week following his visit. My understanding is that Xavier felt that if Ari wasn't able to pull the trigger by the end of the week following his visit, then Xavier was going to focus elsewhere.

[XURunner85]

well it is obvious he doesn't want to play for a team that makes the NCAA tourney more, a team that is always at the top of their conference year after year, oh and a team that beats UD at home since Jimmy Carter...oh well lets see how well he does....

[kyxu]

well it is obvious he doesn't want to play for a team that makes the NCAA tourney more

Just an FYI, Oregon has made two Elite Eights in the past 8 years (have been to the Elite Eight four times total) and has a better record (.571) in the NCAA Tournament than we do (.441). Ernie Kent (Oregon's coach) has also produced three NBA lottery picks. They also play in the Pac-10, a better conference from top to bottom than the Atlantic 10. Yes, playing for Xavier has its perks, but Oregon isn't exactly basketball purgatory.

[wkrq59]

I've posted my say long before this, and I haven't seen any breason to change my opinion.
Ari Stewart played the system for all it's worth. And I still think when it's all over, he'll come up with a "surprise school" where he felt more comfortable with the coaches, the players and the campus atmosphere. His recruitment is precisely what's wrong with the present system.
I'm quite sure that once Stewart gets to Oregon and talks with Churchill Odia, if Xavier wasn't out of the picture it surely will be by then. Normally I don't begrudge any kid a chance to have fun at the what is it, five schools expense? If I were a talented kid I might even schedule a trip to Hawaii, at the rainbow warriors expense of course.

[LA Muskie]

We're gonna win some, and we're gonna lose some. In fact, much like dating, we're going to lose a hell of a lot more than we're going to win. I don't begrudge Ari, whatever he chooses. This year's class, and the fact that we were in the hunt at this stage of his recruitment, all speaks volumes about the progress this program has made. We'll be absolutely fine with or without Ari (as will, frankly, his other two "finalists").

Now whoever claimed to have a good story about his unofficial visit (the post appears to have disappeared), let's hear it...

[xufan02]

wkrq59, what can Odia tell Ari? I was a highly overrated recruit that never lived up to my potential both at Xavier and here at Oregon. Odia is a fixture on the Oregon bench and will be even for his senior year.

Look, not everyone wants to go to Xavier. Ari wanted a bigger campus, has a great relationship with Ernie Kent, and his assistant, Yasir Rosemond, who by the way is from Georgia and has been landing kids year after year from Georgia. Our staff did a great job going into a new recruiting market, but was not able to close the deal.

Oregon has a pipeline in Georgia and Illinois, and recruits are very familiar with thier staff and program. Xavier is strong in OH, IN, KY, MI, and PA. With Book joining the staff we have gotten into homes in NY, NJ, CT, MD, and VA. Ari is just one recruit who got away be patient I have a good feeling that this weekend we will get a SF.

[JoeMuskie]

Lets predict when Ari Commits...

1. To XU right when he gets to campus
2. To XU at the end of his trip.
3. Sunday night during his follow up phone call with Miller.

BIG commitment coming from Ari. I can feel it.

4. Ari doesn't commit to XU or Oregon...Let's focus on Parrom.

[wkrq59]

wkrq59, what can Odia tell Ari? I was a highly overrated recruit that never lived up to my potential both at Xavier and here at Oregon. Odia is a fixture on the Oregon bench and will be even for his senior year. xufan02


Fan,
After reading some Odia's comments when he arrived in Oregon, at Oregon, I'd say he could be plenty negative. Actually, I was making a passing observation. I'm not the least bit upset over Xavier not landing Ari, as it appears X won't. All I'm saying about recruiting is if a kid wants to, and I have no way of knowing this is the case with Ari, he can play the system for big bucks. I don't know if Atlanta as the main Delta base has the same stranglehold on fares as they do at CVG, but the air fare to Oregon must be quite expensive.
I just find it interesting that a kid says these are my schools of high interest and the next day tells a different recruiting expert six or seven or more different schools.
And the recruiting gamers take everything the kid says as gospel and analyze it down to the last i-dot or t-cross to say for sure where he's going.
For those and many other reasons, I always hated recruiting stories when I was in the business, because you have to have degrees in social work, psychology, psychiatry (MD), DVM, DDS and abnormal teenage behavior to even have a chance at understanding the process completely.

[PMI]

No question, Odia could have had a lot of negative things to say about Xavier and its program considering how he felt about it when he was there. I doubt that had anything to do with it, of course.

[Juice]

Odia should actually be happy with Xavier, we found him a beautiful bride.

[wkrq59]

so now x is a yenta?

[The Artist]

so now x is a yenta?

I had a friend who in middle school made it so far in the spelling bee that he was on espn. He got knocked out on the word yenta.

[XU05and07]

I had a friend who in middle school made it so far in the spelling bee that he was on espn. He got knocked out on the word yenta.

can you use "yenta" in a sentence, please?

[Xman95]

I had a friend who in middle school made it so far in the spelling bee that he was on espn. He got knocked out on the word yenta.

I think the spelling bee gives an unfair advantage to kids who grow up spelling names like Jugdulish Babanuchtar. How could anyone beat a kid with a name like that?!?

[X-man]

can you use "yenta" in a sentence, please?

I have yenta see a cryer fan realistic about cryer competitveness with the Muskies.

[DAllen15]

<<can you use "yenta" in a sentence, please?>>

Spelling bee contestant, please spell "atney" backwards.

[vee4xu]

The South American country, already in disarray, was placed into unmitigated chaos due to a military yenta.

How's that?

[DAllen15]

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a winner!

[Jumpy]

The South American country, already in disarray, was placed into unmitigated chaos due to a military yenta.

How's that?

Plagarism isn't allowed. You're disqualified.

[MADXSTER]

Ari Stewart Prediction Thread to Spelling Bee plagarism.

Where have you gone Mrs. Robinson.

[PMI]

This has been a great thread for the ADD-plagued posters like myself.

[vee4xu]

Plagarism isn't allowed. You're disqualified.

Sorry, did you write something similar. I didn't read all of the posts before adding mine. It just popped into my head. If you did write something similar, then maybe "Great minds think alike" is more relevant?
:)

[PM Thor]

I think Thor's explanation seems closest to the truth.

I am, in fact, BRILLIANT.

Just ask my Mom. She says I am the smartest young boy on the planet.

To quote from Dows blog....

"He said he'd known for a couple weeks that it would be XU and had communicated as much to the XU staff but wanted to wait until he was on campus to make a more secure commitment."

Thus, this is why X was secure enough to stop recruiting Ari. It happens more often than not that Miller and crew know what they are doing.

Did I say I was BRILLIANT? Hah! Well I am. Except for tangible stuff that affects me from day to day.

[xu95]

I am, in fact, BRILLIANT.

Just ask my Mom. She says I am the smartest young boy on the planet.

To quote from Dows blog....

"He said he'd known for a couple weeks that it would be XU and had communicated as much to the XU staff but wanted to wait until he was on campus to make a more secure commitment."

Thus, this is why X was secure enough to stop recruiting Ari. It happens more often than not that Miller and crew know what they are doing.

Did I say I was BRILLIANT? Hah! Well I am. Except for tangible stuff that affects me from day to day.

Thor, it seems like great minds think alike.

xu95

[xu95]

For the record, (not that I am bragging or anything) I mentioned on Snow's board that Xavier knew Parrom was committing and Thor said something along the lines of "that makes sense".

Now you all can rep me if you would like.

xu95

[xufan02]

Ari to Wake Forest per scout. I guess in the end he wanted to stay close to home. Look forward to seeing Xavier crush him in the Skip Prosser Memorial.

[MHettel]

That actually makes sense. moreso than Oregon.

[Giddyup37]

uh oh...this is a textbook definition of a jinx

I called it...The Jinx...

jk