1. True freshman over time have rarely been counted on for big contributions, and when they have they are elite level recruits.

(see stats history here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1q8d4ZieVgFIhQ5zT0M8sggpB3-yLU1-ObQkumbM5Z7Q/edit#gid=2)

I do my best to keep it positive about individual players, as these kids work hard and deserve our support. I'll just encourage you to look up their offer lists, high school film, historical production from freshman, and set expectations accordingly.

2. Again, we're referring to paper depth versus reality. Paper depth, or if this was an NCAA video game, says 4 talented guys is plenty and you'll be good. Reality says Rose has had 2 season ending injuries in 2 years, played 27 minutes last season, and currently isn't dressing with the team. Even if he gets game eligible by Nov 14th, he won't be in shape or in rhythm. See Hill, Taysom for proof of what season ending injuries can do.

Eli Bryant has been nursing an injury for a month or so. I feel more confident he'll be rolling by December or so, but it's no guarantee. Haws is a fresh RM with a light frame, so his longevity through the season is a wildcard. Emery plays recklessly (in a good way), but has a style of play more prone to bumps and bruises versus a spot up shooter type that doesn't get after it on D.

Look, I'm as nutty of a bball fan as anyone. Obviously I want to be wrong here, and I want our most talented core of guards in decades to gel and be healthy.

We've had a handful of top 100 recruits in two decades, and we have SIX on one roster. It's crazy.

I just think the casual basketball fans have expectations too high based on paper talent, and may not be fully considering the injury/conditioning ramifications and we're poised for a November/December fan meltdown.