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Here is the complete text for the chat's first half hour.....
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Welcome to the BradleyFans.com chat room. Coach Jim Les will be here today, 9/23/09, at 7:00 pm for a chatroom session with fans. Plan to join us!
If anyone needs help signing up for this chatroom, log onto Bradleyfans.com and send me a Private Message.
da coach from x.x.x.130 left this message 109 minutes ago:
I am heading over to Haussler Hall to meet up with the Coach. Looks like everything is OK for tonight's chat.
I am hoping we don't lose too much of our audience to Dancing With The Stars results show. :-)
Big Mike from x.x.x.173 joined the chat 97 minutes ago
Jenny from x.x.x.58 joined the chat 88 minutes ago
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 83 minutes ago
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 80 minutes ago
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 78 minutes ago
t: Here are questions that some have already offered via the message board
t: Would JL consider playing a big line up sometime this year....with three of his six "bigs" (TB, MK, JP, WE, SS, AT) on the floor at the same time?
t: Anthony Thompson was once compared by you favorably to Patrick O'Bryant, yet we have seen very little of him on the court. What development and improvement, if any, has he made since last year? And, what role do you see him playing on this team this year and in the future?
t: How do you intend to use our new players (freshmen)? And who do you expect will make the biggest impact this season? Why?
t: Every team seems to have a "go to" player night in and night out. Who do you expect that to be this year?
t: Scheduling? Who is in charge? What would we have to do to play some of the traditional top 10 teams? How is the new facility going to help us recruit?
t: When the team gets off to a fast start with a decent lead, why take players out after 4-5 minutes? I would like to see 5 players play longer minutes together.
Normal Paul from x.x.x.57 joined the chat 72 minutes ago
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 65 minutes ago
da coach from x.x.x.130 joined the chat 65 minutes ago
da coach: Hi everyone! Coach Les and Bobby Parker are en route to Haussler Hall from another event. They should be here and get started at about 7:00.
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 62 minutes ago
t: Almost 80 people online at BradleyFans suggest that the chat is generating a lot of interest!
ph from x.x.x.124 joined the chat 59 minutes ago
romar from x.x.x.189 joined the chat 57 minutes ago
Jenny from x.x.x.58 joined the chat 57 minutes ago
jeffsu from x.x.x.137 joined the chat 52 minutes ago
KABOOM from x.x.x.35 joined the chat 49 minutes ago
jeffsu: I may have to take off, so I'll toss one out there if someone can ask it: We've heard a fair amount about the local newcomers, but which players in recent years would you compare Milos to? What about Jake Eastman?
jeffsu: Also, does the team have one distinct leader with some support or are there multiple leaders on this team already?
da coach: Coach Les isn't here yet, but Bobby Parker is here. The coaches have had very little time to actually observe the new guys yet, so we'll have to wait to see.
Coach Jim Les from x.x.x.42 joined the chat 45 minutes ago
Coach Jim Les: FYI, this is Bobby Parker. Coach Les is not here yet, so don't get too excited. I'd be happy to answer some generic questions until Coach gets here.
jeffsu: Thanks for doing this Bobby Parker!!
Coach Jim Les: You're welcome. The answers will come a little faster with me typing.
Coach Jim Les: LOL
da coach from x.x.x.98 joined the chat 43 minutes ago
jeffsu: Haha, after all of the blogging and results from Brazil, I'm not surprised... I'm just amazed you got to see anything in Brazil with as many updates as you got for us!
Coach Jim Les: Fortunately, I got to see everything during the day. Unfortunately, it resulted in a lot of late nights pecking away at the keyboard. But overall, it was an amazing trip and I was happy to have the opportunity.
Fetz86 from x.x.x.82 joined the chat 42 minutes ago
jeffsu: Sounds like the players really got a chance to gel down there and get to know one another?
t: Yes...thanks, jeff, for bringing up the Brazil trip. I, too, would like to publicly thank BP for his efforts and such a great job getting game info to the fans!
BU FAMILY from x.x.x.22 joined the chat 41 minutes ago
MacabreMob from x.x.x.117 joined the chat 40 minutes ago
da coach: For those just logging in- Bobby Parker is answering for Coach Les, who is not here yet.
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 40 minutes ago
Coach Jim Les: It was certainly a great bonding experience. It was really neat to just watch the guys and see them take everything in. And when you are in a foreign country where very few people speak your language, you are really forced to rely on one another. From my observations, we have a very close-knit team, and really have for several years now, but I think the experience brought everyone even closer together.
Coach Jim Les: In addition to the games, practices and sight-seeing, the guys also had some bonding exercises.
t: Can Sam Singh do the Samba?
Braves4Life from x.x.x.226 joined the chat 38 minutes ago
Coach Jim Les: Yes, but I don't think you will see him on Dancing with the Stars anytime soon. Taylor Brown is the Samba king.
Coach Jim Les: Coach is here, so I will turn the answers over to him.
Bill from x.x.x.12 joined the chat 37 minutes ago
jeffsu: Thanks Bobby!
da coach: Coach Les just got here. Go ahead and ask questions- so here is Coach Les....
jeffsu: Hey Coach! Thanks for doing this. I know you haven't seen much of the newcomers, but... We've heard a fair amount about the local newcomers, but which players in recent years would you compare Milos to? What about Jake Eastman?
Big Mike: What was the biggest bonus from the Brazil trip?
t: Hi Coach, thanks for being available for this chat!
BU FAMILY: Coach - Hate to put you on the spot early, but which new player do you think will impact the program most this year?
da coach: Here is a question from the board- Coach, will you be playing more of a "big lineup" this year?
Normal Paul: Will there be a greater emphasis on rebounding?
ser_solace from x.x.x.5 joined the chat 35 minutes ago
Coach Jim Les: I've been very impressed with all four freshmen and as of yet, one does not stand out as being head and shoulders above the rest in terms of potential production. But it is a great sign that after three weeks of workouts, we believe that we have four cornerstones of our program for years to come that all bring a little different skill to the table.
Bill from x.x.x.12 joined the chat 34 minutes ago
beninator from x.x.x.45 joined the chat 34 minutes ago
Fansince69 from x.x.x.70 joined the chat 33 minutes ago
BU FAMILY: Coach - what impact do you think the new facilities will have on the success of the program in future years?
beninator: How has Anthony Thompson progressed over the summer?
Big Mike: Is this the year for AT to see the floor?
Coach Jim Les: First of all, as a coach your goal is to put the best players on the floor and what size they are become secondary to which players will best help you win a game. Using our 10 practices to get ready for Brazil, we had a tremendous focus on rebounding...not just from our "bigs" but from our big athletic guards also. It was nice to have the rebounding production in Brazil and we will continue that emphasis into this season, because this is a very important component of "finishing" of our defense.
Mike Radigan from x.x.x.111 joined the chat 31 minutes ago
SFP from x.x.x.252 joined the chat 31 minutes ago
t: Welcome, Mike
Braves4Life: Anthony Thompson was once compared by you favorably to Patrick O'Bryant, yet we have seen very little of him on the court. What development and improvement, if any, has he made since last year? And, what role do you see him playing on this team this year and in the future?
t: Welcome, Pete
Coach Jim Les: We have definitely seen progression from AT, first physically he is stronger and has added much-needed weight (214). And we really like his length and skill and he will have every opportunity in the preseaon to compete for minutes.
Big Mike: Is Will Egolf ready to go 100% when practice starts?
SFP: thanks t hello to all
ron moore from x.x.x.29 joined the chat 30 minutes ago
beninator: What impressions do recruits have of our new facilities on campus?
Braves4Life: How do you intend to use our new players (freshmen)? And who do you expect will make the biggest impact this season? Why?
Coach Jim Les: Both Will and Andrew are on course to be cleared to play without restriction within the next week to 10 days. We will conservatively still monitor the amount of time, but in terms of any types of drills or scrimmaging, they are chomping at the bit to play.
Big Mike: Will the team be practicing in the rec center until the practice facility gets done?
its boogie time from x.x.x.15 joined the chat 29 minutes ago
t: Welcome, Boogie!
Coach Jim Les: The best response continues to come from the video that walks them through the finished facility. I think the staff and players are more excited as we see the continued progression of the construction site. I can tell you from all the plans and all the other facilities around the country I have witnessed, this will be one of the best practice facilities in the country and we expect it to be a tremendous drawing card for future recruits.
da coach: Will there be one more game scheduled this year?
beninator: What type of player do we have in Milos? Is he a 4 or a 5?
romar: I know you can't talk about your recruiting, but can you say if Tyler is getting many D-1 offers?
SFP: What is our overall goal when it comes to creating our schedule and what's the chance we start having a non-conference schedule like Gonzaga?
Coach Jim Les: Any "starting" or "minutes" questions will all be determined over the next month to six weeks. I'm a big believer, as most coaches, that you allow everyone to compete fairly for playing time every day in practice. We film our practices, we stat our practices, so we leave nothing to chance in terms of the most-deserving players on the floor.
Big Mike: Will this be the year to add another juco if the right one becomes available?
Braves4Life: Are you still the best 3-point shooter in BU history or will any current player replace you? Who's better. you or Tyler?
Coach Jim Les: As far as the schedule, it is not likely we will add another game, but we have let numerous teams around the country know the dates that we have available and we would not be opposed, for the right opponent and the right opportunity, to add a game. To date, there have not been many takers.
SFP: Why is that?
ron moore from x.x.x.29 left the chat 25 minutes ago
beninator: What job tasks do you delegate to your assistant coaches?
Coach Jim Les: First of all, to show my age, we did not have the 3-point line when I played. Otherwise, I'm sure I would have averaged 37 a game, and beat the Hawk's average. LOL. Tyler is definitely more skilled at this age than I ever was.
dogsrus from x.x.x.96 joined the chat 24 minutes ago
t: Welcome, dogs
Braves4Life: Every team seems to have a "go to" player night in and night out. Who do you expect that to be this year?
dogsrus: Coach...I saw AW at the driving range the other day. Hows his game?
t: Did they still have laces on the ball...nevermind
beninator: that was in the short shors era.. lol
SFP: and the Farah Fawcet hair
Coach Jim Les: Recruiting. We exhaust avenues, high school, prep school and junior college to find the best fit. This year in particular, we are being very selective, because we love the young talent on our team and we want to make sure there is a good fit with any newcomers in this class.
Big Mike: When the new arena gets completed can we expect the red/white games to come back?
t: Question for the Coach: Have you heard at all from Matt Salley? Is he playing pro ball?
da coach: Fans- the Coach is trying to answer as many ?s as he can- if he doesn't get to your question- please ask again. Thanks.
afan from x.x.x.80 joined the chat 21 minutes ago
BUAlum from x.x.x.199 left this message 21 minutes ago:
Blue Ribbon just released its MVC rankings and picked BU in the bottom half!!!! What are you thoughts on the Valley teams this year?
Coach Jim Les: Go To Player. Based on last year, Sammy took a lot of big shots for us, so he will certainly be an option. We will also do a number of situations in practice and see if there are others capable of handling end-of-game production. It's a physical, as well as mental, attribute to be a go-to player.
da coach: BUAlum-please click the Join Chat button in the bottom right
Coach Jim Les: Red-White Games; Yes.
Braves4Life: With all of our quick guards have you ever considered "turning the dogs loose" with a full court press for the entire game, ala Nolan Richardson, Jerry Tarkanian, Rick Pitino?
afan: coach, we have heard very little about how the new freshmen are doing. Can you give us a breaqkdown by player?
SFP: Mizzo also B4L
beninator: Is there any way we can schedule some upper Mid-Major teams such as Xavier etc...
t: None of the preseason guides has been real kind to BU yet.
Braves4Life: and marquette beni
patrick_obrian from x.x.x.82 joined the chat 19 minutes ago
shaunguth from x.x.x.166 joined the chat 19 minutes ago
romar: Were the 4 frosh allowed to practice during the Brazil prep?
t: Welcome, Patrick
Big Mike: Can you see Tyler in BU red?
beninator: agree braves4life
Coach Jim Les: First of all, I blame all the preseason predictions on Bobby Parker. He must not have pubbed us up enough all summer. Predictions, I think are great, talking points for chat lines. We don't put much stock in them. I do know last year, we were picked fifth in our league and lost two key players and finished fourth, a game out of third, so there.
patrick_obrian: Thanks T
patrick_obrian: Coach, I saw you at my restaurant at McDonald's on University. How was your visit?
SFP: Are we going to press a bit more this year with all the talent we have?
afan: can you comment on how wilkins is doing?
da coach: No-the coach said the freshmen were not allowed to practice in those early practices
SFP: afan - no he cannot
Coach Jim Les: As far as an all-out assault and pressing for 40 minutes, that will probably not happen. But I would like to extend our pressure in certain instances throughout the game.
my8yu from x.x.x.228 joined the chat 18 minutes ago
t: and the coach cannot comment on unsigned recruits such as Wilkins
da coach: He cannot comment on Wilkins- only recruits who have signed LOIs
jeffsu: When the team gets off to a fast start with a decent lead, why take players out after 4-5 minutes? I would like to see 5 players play longer minutes together.
BUAlum from x.x.x.199 joined the chat 17 minutes ago
afan: how are the new freshmen looking
Coach Jim Les: I was picking up a Happy Meal to deliver to my daughter for her birthday at school. If I would have known you were there, I would have asked for a freebie. LOL.
BUAlum: Blue Ribbon just released its MVC rankings and picked BU in the bottom half!!!! What are you thoughts on the Valley teams this year?
SFP: Any good recruiting stories past or present you can talk about.
Big Mike: Would you classify JP as a 4 or 5 in college?
patrick_obrian: You would have got it Coach. I was gonna come say hello, but too busy. Stop by again!
da coach: BUAlum- Coach Les answered regarding preseason predictions above
AEfor3 from x.x.x.103 joined the chat 16 minutes ago
afan: we don't know much about Milos, can you fill us in?
jeffsu: Coach Les: Does the team have one distinct leader (maybe Sammy?) with some support or are there multiple leaders on this team already?
Big Mike: I noticed on Sunday that SM was as lean as ever since arriving on the Hilltop...have you changed his weight-trainging?
patrick_obrian: Is Sam Man's confidence in his 3 point shot improved. I feel that he is a great shooter, but passed up on some really open looks.
beninator: What player(s) do you think have the best chance for a break out season this year?
Coach Jim Les: We don't use a numbering system with our players. We're more about putting them in positions to succeed within our system. I will say both MK and JP have shown very good versatility, and as a coach, that gives you a lot of flexibility and it gives a player more opportunity to get more minutes.
t: patrick_obrian, is that freebie offer open to BradleyFans members?? ;0
da coach: jeffsu- the coach answered an earlier question about a team leader and "go to guy"- and he said probably Sam M. would be that guy
patrick_obrian: Sure stop by and see me. If I am available sure.
AEfor3 from x.x.x.103 changed name to AEBravesFan 14 minutes ago
SFP: Do you expect EM to take a bit more shots this year. It seemed he passed up a bunch of wide open opportunities from the top of the key.
Coach Jim Les: Sammy shot the ball great in Brazil, in excess of 45 percent, and that's a result of working really hard on his shot this summer. What we will work on with him in this preseason is more of the scorer's mentality. He passes up shots, not because of lack of confidence, but because of unselfishness.
Braves4Life: Does Massive Mike Williams have a son? Can we expect to see BU sign another man-child like him in the near future?
SFP: got question
SFP: good
beninator: Do you think that there is a possibility for us to utilize two bigs on the floor at the same time this year?
jeffsu: I guess I was considering more of the aspect of who is in the huddle barking at the team and boosting some adrenaline, moreso than the on-court finisher.
t: what is the definition of a "man-child" ?
Coach Jim Les: Eddren also worked very hard this summer on shooting the basketball and has shown marked improvement in our skill workouts. We will expect him to take, and make, those shots as he progresses from a freshman to a sophomore.
Braves4Life: 6'8", 250
t: gotcha
SFP: Mike Williams
Coach Jim Les: Massive Mike has a daughter who is good size. I'll have to tell Paula.
SFP: defintion in webster has his pic
beninator: you beat me to it sfp
Coach Jim Les: We're always looking for a man-child
patrick_obrian: I was thinking that with his point guard mentality that could have been the other end of the spectrum. He can fill that "gunner" spot well ala JC. 45% is EXCELLENT NEWS!
t: There's a big kid at Woodruff...6-9 andout 280...but who knows where the Woodruff kids will be next year
Braves4Life: he's probably too short pob
Big Mike: Was you surprised by TB play in Brazil as far as scoring?
Coach Jim Les: Sammy is the vocal team leader.
afan: Coach, do you recruit in all states or deo you have certain areas that you focus on?
Braves4Life: but eastman might fill that role pob?
SFP: Are we going to prepare a game plan differently for that game in Utah with the altitude?
beninator: I like and appreciate what Sam Singh has overcome during his tenure here. Any chance Sam Singh will be a captain this year?
BUAlum: First year for the MVC/MWC challenge - what are your thoughts? It seems like BYU is a great opponent to have in the non-conference
Coach Jim Les: Milos is an excellent shooter, is a skilled passer and ball-handler and has a Euro-type offensive game. His intangibles are his toughness, competitiveness and work ethic.
SFP: When are you going to schedule a game out in CA?
patrick_obrian: True B4L
beninator: as close to San Francisco as possible righ SFP
SFP: Absolutely
Coach Jim Les: The MVC/MWC challenge is something all of us coaches pushed for. This is a "like" league that will help all of us improve our scheduling ability. We're very excited about the challenge of facing a very good BYU team and we will know right away how good we are.
t: Maybe wait 'til Yuba gets another 7-footer
SFP: USF, CAL, Stanford, Santa Clara there's a bunch
rocksolid from x.x.x.42 joined the chat 8 minutes ago
SFP: St. Mary's
Coach Jim Les: Captains will be up to a players vote, but we are very excited to have Big Sam back. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and we expect production from him.
Braves4Life: I'd like to see BU play Wake Forest
Big Mike: Are we outgrowing the BracketBuster?
Normal Paul: I like the conference challenges, would you like a challenge with another conference, also I think the bracketbuster gets you one good game the next season.
Coach Jim Les: SFP, do you have any CA connections? We have Dec. 22 and 23 open. You can facilitate all you want.
t: Question for Coach Les: Tell us how it feels to play against a friend and former assistant like Lennox
SFP: Does it?
da coach: Coach has said they have contacted just about every D1 school and given them available dates.
Braves4Life: go get stanford sfp
SFP: I'll make a call or two!
rocksolid: How is Andrew progressing? Any worries about him being healthy for game one and staying healthy?
MacabreMob: Get right on that SFP!
shaunguth: Just curious Coach......do you prefer red-outs or white-outs and do those nights get the players/staff especially pumped up?
Coach Jim Les: I surprisingly became a little more sentimental prior to that game with SIU-E than I though I would. I have tremendous respect and appreciation for Lennox and it became more of a distraction prior to the game than I anticipated.
da coach: The question about Andrew was answered above- he will be cleared for full practice, and is very close to 100%
jeffsu: At least we know we cant complain about not getting an extra game... he's even letting us try to schedule. Guess thats one of those "you see how tough this is... try it!" things... Love it!
rocksolid: thanks coach. sorry I joined late
Coach Jim Les: I think the staff and players prefer the White Out. The Red Out should be an every game occassion.
t: amen
shaunguth: Agreed! Perfect answer on the red-outs!
Big Mike: Have you ever coached a nicer person tha Dodie?
t: what's with these Bradley people who wear purple or green to a Bradley game??
da coach: What qualities do you like in Dyricus Simms-Edwards
Coach Jim Les: Dodie is the best
Fansince69: Has AT praticed at the 4 position or only the 5 positon ?
Fetz86: Have the players asked again recently about the possibilites of black jerseys?
patrick_obrian: T- that really irritates me
SFP: Coach thanks for recruiting great citizens as well as basketball players. Are there any ball players you looked the other way because they looked like trouble?
Big Mike: Did you anticipate Chris Roberts having the impact he has?
Coach Jim Les: I like DSE's strength and athleticism, his ability to get to the basket. He has a good feel for the game and he is a really good on-the-ball defender.
patrick_obrian: Coach what kind of pull do you have to get some game shorts and jerseys out on the shelves?
shaunguth: Me too.....I work evenings just across the street from the PCC and bring my Bradley sweatshirt/hoodie to change into for the game!
Coach Jim Les: There is no question the last few years, we have passed on some very talented players because they did not fit the "complete" mold of a Bradley student-athlete that we look for.
romar: Coach - we have seen pics of the new uniforms - I expect home & away uni's but are there going to be an alternates this year? heard a rumor.
Braves4Life: Good point SFP. I'm really proud to be a BU alum every time I hear our players speak in public. No time moreso than the players sent to the podium during our Sweet 16 run.
Coach Jim Les: Chris Roberts: Yes, I have a lot of respect for Chris' abilities. He is also a hard worker who wants to be good, and that's a great combination for such a talented young man. My expectation is that he will have a big year.
beninator: Do you have an opinion on the recruiting rankings from Scout or Rivals? pro or con...
jeffsu: While we know you cant speak on specific recruits, is it frustrating to have your eyes on a top recruit (say out of Kentucky...) who visits and then commits elsewhere shortly thereafter?
SFP: LOL
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Welcome to the BradleyFans.com chat room. Coach Jim Les will be here today, 9/23/09, at 7:00 pm for a chatroom session with fans. Plan to join us!
If anyone needs help signing up for this chatroom, log onto Bradleyfans.com and send me a Private Message.
da coach from x.x.x.130 left this message 109 minutes ago:
I am heading over to Haussler Hall to meet up with the Coach. Looks like everything is OK for tonight's chat.
I am hoping we don't lose too much of our audience to Dancing With The Stars results show. :-)
Big Mike from x.x.x.173 joined the chat 97 minutes ago
Jenny from x.x.x.58 joined the chat 88 minutes ago
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 83 minutes ago
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 80 minutes ago
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 78 minutes ago
t: Here are questions that some have already offered via the message board
t: Would JL consider playing a big line up sometime this year....with three of his six "bigs" (TB, MK, JP, WE, SS, AT) on the floor at the same time?
t: Anthony Thompson was once compared by you favorably to Patrick O'Bryant, yet we have seen very little of him on the court. What development and improvement, if any, has he made since last year? And, what role do you see him playing on this team this year and in the future?
t: How do you intend to use our new players (freshmen)? And who do you expect will make the biggest impact this season? Why?
t: Every team seems to have a "go to" player night in and night out. Who do you expect that to be this year?
t: Scheduling? Who is in charge? What would we have to do to play some of the traditional top 10 teams? How is the new facility going to help us recruit?
t: When the team gets off to a fast start with a decent lead, why take players out after 4-5 minutes? I would like to see 5 players play longer minutes together.
Normal Paul from x.x.x.57 joined the chat 72 minutes ago
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 65 minutes ago
da coach from x.x.x.130 joined the chat 65 minutes ago
da coach: Hi everyone! Coach Les and Bobby Parker are en route to Haussler Hall from another event. They should be here and get started at about 7:00.
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 62 minutes ago
t: Almost 80 people online at BradleyFans suggest that the chat is generating a lot of interest!
ph from x.x.x.124 joined the chat 59 minutes ago
romar from x.x.x.189 joined the chat 57 minutes ago
Jenny from x.x.x.58 joined the chat 57 minutes ago
jeffsu from x.x.x.137 joined the chat 52 minutes ago
KABOOM from x.x.x.35 joined the chat 49 minutes ago
jeffsu: I may have to take off, so I'll toss one out there if someone can ask it: We've heard a fair amount about the local newcomers, but which players in recent years would you compare Milos to? What about Jake Eastman?
jeffsu: Also, does the team have one distinct leader with some support or are there multiple leaders on this team already?
da coach: Coach Les isn't here yet, but Bobby Parker is here. The coaches have had very little time to actually observe the new guys yet, so we'll have to wait to see.
Coach Jim Les from x.x.x.42 joined the chat 45 minutes ago
Coach Jim Les: FYI, this is Bobby Parker. Coach Les is not here yet, so don't get too excited. I'd be happy to answer some generic questions until Coach gets here.
jeffsu: Thanks for doing this Bobby Parker!!
Coach Jim Les: You're welcome. The answers will come a little faster with me typing.
Coach Jim Les: LOL
da coach from x.x.x.98 joined the chat 43 minutes ago
jeffsu: Haha, after all of the blogging and results from Brazil, I'm not surprised... I'm just amazed you got to see anything in Brazil with as many updates as you got for us!
Coach Jim Les: Fortunately, I got to see everything during the day. Unfortunately, it resulted in a lot of late nights pecking away at the keyboard. But overall, it was an amazing trip and I was happy to have the opportunity.
Fetz86 from x.x.x.82 joined the chat 42 minutes ago
jeffsu: Sounds like the players really got a chance to gel down there and get to know one another?
t: Yes...thanks, jeff, for bringing up the Brazil trip. I, too, would like to publicly thank BP for his efforts and such a great job getting game info to the fans!
BU FAMILY from x.x.x.22 joined the chat 41 minutes ago
MacabreMob from x.x.x.117 joined the chat 40 minutes ago
da coach: For those just logging in- Bobby Parker is answering for Coach Les, who is not here yet.
t from x.x.x.231 joined the chat 40 minutes ago
Coach Jim Les: It was certainly a great bonding experience. It was really neat to just watch the guys and see them take everything in. And when you are in a foreign country where very few people speak your language, you are really forced to rely on one another. From my observations, we have a very close-knit team, and really have for several years now, but I think the experience brought everyone even closer together.
Coach Jim Les: In addition to the games, practices and sight-seeing, the guys also had some bonding exercises.
t: Can Sam Singh do the Samba?
Braves4Life from x.x.x.226 joined the chat 38 minutes ago
Coach Jim Les: Yes, but I don't think you will see him on Dancing with the Stars anytime soon. Taylor Brown is the Samba king.
Coach Jim Les: Coach is here, so I will turn the answers over to him.
Bill from x.x.x.12 joined the chat 37 minutes ago
jeffsu: Thanks Bobby!
da coach: Coach Les just got here. Go ahead and ask questions- so here is Coach Les....
jeffsu: Hey Coach! Thanks for doing this. I know you haven't seen much of the newcomers, but... We've heard a fair amount about the local newcomers, but which players in recent years would you compare Milos to? What about Jake Eastman?
Big Mike: What was the biggest bonus from the Brazil trip?
t: Hi Coach, thanks for being available for this chat!
BU FAMILY: Coach - Hate to put you on the spot early, but which new player do you think will impact the program most this year?
da coach: Here is a question from the board- Coach, will you be playing more of a "big lineup" this year?
Normal Paul: Will there be a greater emphasis on rebounding?
ser_solace from x.x.x.5 joined the chat 35 minutes ago
Coach Jim Les: I've been very impressed with all four freshmen and as of yet, one does not stand out as being head and shoulders above the rest in terms of potential production. But it is a great sign that after three weeks of workouts, we believe that we have four cornerstones of our program for years to come that all bring a little different skill to the table.
Bill from x.x.x.12 joined the chat 34 minutes ago
beninator from x.x.x.45 joined the chat 34 minutes ago
Fansince69 from x.x.x.70 joined the chat 33 minutes ago
BU FAMILY: Coach - what impact do you think the new facilities will have on the success of the program in future years?
beninator: How has Anthony Thompson progressed over the summer?
Big Mike: Is this the year for AT to see the floor?
Coach Jim Les: First of all, as a coach your goal is to put the best players on the floor and what size they are become secondary to which players will best help you win a game. Using our 10 practices to get ready for Brazil, we had a tremendous focus on rebounding...not just from our "bigs" but from our big athletic guards also. It was nice to have the rebounding production in Brazil and we will continue that emphasis into this season, because this is a very important component of "finishing" of our defense.
Mike Radigan from x.x.x.111 joined the chat 31 minutes ago
SFP from x.x.x.252 joined the chat 31 minutes ago
t: Welcome, Mike
Braves4Life: Anthony Thompson was once compared by you favorably to Patrick O'Bryant, yet we have seen very little of him on the court. What development and improvement, if any, has he made since last year? And, what role do you see him playing on this team this year and in the future?
t: Welcome, Pete
Coach Jim Les: We have definitely seen progression from AT, first physically he is stronger and has added much-needed weight (214). And we really like his length and skill and he will have every opportunity in the preseaon to compete for minutes.
Big Mike: Is Will Egolf ready to go 100% when practice starts?
SFP: thanks t hello to all
ron moore from x.x.x.29 joined the chat 30 minutes ago
beninator: What impressions do recruits have of our new facilities on campus?
Braves4Life: How do you intend to use our new players (freshmen)? And who do you expect will make the biggest impact this season? Why?
Coach Jim Les: Both Will and Andrew are on course to be cleared to play without restriction within the next week to 10 days. We will conservatively still monitor the amount of time, but in terms of any types of drills or scrimmaging, they are chomping at the bit to play.
Big Mike: Will the team be practicing in the rec center until the practice facility gets done?
its boogie time from x.x.x.15 joined the chat 29 minutes ago
t: Welcome, Boogie!
Coach Jim Les: The best response continues to come from the video that walks them through the finished facility. I think the staff and players are more excited as we see the continued progression of the construction site. I can tell you from all the plans and all the other facilities around the country I have witnessed, this will be one of the best practice facilities in the country and we expect it to be a tremendous drawing card for future recruits.
da coach: Will there be one more game scheduled this year?
beninator: What type of player do we have in Milos? Is he a 4 or a 5?
romar: I know you can't talk about your recruiting, but can you say if Tyler is getting many D-1 offers?
SFP: What is our overall goal when it comes to creating our schedule and what's the chance we start having a non-conference schedule like Gonzaga?
Coach Jim Les: Any "starting" or "minutes" questions will all be determined over the next month to six weeks. I'm a big believer, as most coaches, that you allow everyone to compete fairly for playing time every day in practice. We film our practices, we stat our practices, so we leave nothing to chance in terms of the most-deserving players on the floor.
Big Mike: Will this be the year to add another juco if the right one becomes available?
Braves4Life: Are you still the best 3-point shooter in BU history or will any current player replace you? Who's better. you or Tyler?
Coach Jim Les: As far as the schedule, it is not likely we will add another game, but we have let numerous teams around the country know the dates that we have available and we would not be opposed, for the right opponent and the right opportunity, to add a game. To date, there have not been many takers.
SFP: Why is that?
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beninator: What job tasks do you delegate to your assistant coaches?
Coach Jim Les: First of all, to show my age, we did not have the 3-point line when I played. Otherwise, I'm sure I would have averaged 37 a game, and beat the Hawk's average. LOL. Tyler is definitely more skilled at this age than I ever was.
dogsrus from x.x.x.96 joined the chat 24 minutes ago
t: Welcome, dogs
Braves4Life: Every team seems to have a "go to" player night in and night out. Who do you expect that to be this year?
dogsrus: Coach...I saw AW at the driving range the other day. Hows his game?
t: Did they still have laces on the ball...nevermind
beninator: that was in the short shors era.. lol
SFP: and the Farah Fawcet hair
Coach Jim Les: Recruiting. We exhaust avenues, high school, prep school and junior college to find the best fit. This year in particular, we are being very selective, because we love the young talent on our team and we want to make sure there is a good fit with any newcomers in this class.
Big Mike: When the new arena gets completed can we expect the red/white games to come back?
t: Question for the Coach: Have you heard at all from Matt Salley? Is he playing pro ball?
da coach: Fans- the Coach is trying to answer as many ?s as he can- if he doesn't get to your question- please ask again. Thanks.
afan from x.x.x.80 joined the chat 21 minutes ago
BUAlum from x.x.x.199 left this message 21 minutes ago:
Blue Ribbon just released its MVC rankings and picked BU in the bottom half!!!! What are you thoughts on the Valley teams this year?
Coach Jim Les: Go To Player. Based on last year, Sammy took a lot of big shots for us, so he will certainly be an option. We will also do a number of situations in practice and see if there are others capable of handling end-of-game production. It's a physical, as well as mental, attribute to be a go-to player.
da coach: BUAlum-please click the Join Chat button in the bottom right
Coach Jim Les: Red-White Games; Yes.
Braves4Life: With all of our quick guards have you ever considered "turning the dogs loose" with a full court press for the entire game, ala Nolan Richardson, Jerry Tarkanian, Rick Pitino?
afan: coach, we have heard very little about how the new freshmen are doing. Can you give us a breaqkdown by player?
SFP: Mizzo also B4L
beninator: Is there any way we can schedule some upper Mid-Major teams such as Xavier etc...
t: None of the preseason guides has been real kind to BU yet.
Braves4Life: and marquette beni
patrick_obrian from x.x.x.82 joined the chat 19 minutes ago
shaunguth from x.x.x.166 joined the chat 19 minutes ago
romar: Were the 4 frosh allowed to practice during the Brazil prep?
t: Welcome, Patrick
Big Mike: Can you see Tyler in BU red?
beninator: agree braves4life
Coach Jim Les: First of all, I blame all the preseason predictions on Bobby Parker. He must not have pubbed us up enough all summer. Predictions, I think are great, talking points for chat lines. We don't put much stock in them. I do know last year, we were picked fifth in our league and lost two key players and finished fourth, a game out of third, so there.
patrick_obrian: Thanks T
patrick_obrian: Coach, I saw you at my restaurant at McDonald's on University. How was your visit?
SFP: Are we going to press a bit more this year with all the talent we have?
afan: can you comment on how wilkins is doing?
da coach: No-the coach said the freshmen were not allowed to practice in those early practices
SFP: afan - no he cannot
Coach Jim Les: As far as an all-out assault and pressing for 40 minutes, that will probably not happen. But I would like to extend our pressure in certain instances throughout the game.
my8yu from x.x.x.228 joined the chat 18 minutes ago
t: and the coach cannot comment on unsigned recruits such as Wilkins
da coach: He cannot comment on Wilkins- only recruits who have signed LOIs
jeffsu: When the team gets off to a fast start with a decent lead, why take players out after 4-5 minutes? I would like to see 5 players play longer minutes together.
BUAlum from x.x.x.199 joined the chat 17 minutes ago
afan: how are the new freshmen looking
Coach Jim Les: I was picking up a Happy Meal to deliver to my daughter for her birthday at school. If I would have known you were there, I would have asked for a freebie. LOL.
BUAlum: Blue Ribbon just released its MVC rankings and picked BU in the bottom half!!!! What are you thoughts on the Valley teams this year?
SFP: Any good recruiting stories past or present you can talk about.
Big Mike: Would you classify JP as a 4 or 5 in college?
patrick_obrian: You would have got it Coach. I was gonna come say hello, but too busy. Stop by again!
da coach: BUAlum- Coach Les answered regarding preseason predictions above
AEfor3 from x.x.x.103 joined the chat 16 minutes ago
afan: we don't know much about Milos, can you fill us in?
jeffsu: Coach Les: Does the team have one distinct leader (maybe Sammy?) with some support or are there multiple leaders on this team already?
Big Mike: I noticed on Sunday that SM was as lean as ever since arriving on the Hilltop...have you changed his weight-trainging?
patrick_obrian: Is Sam Man's confidence in his 3 point shot improved. I feel that he is a great shooter, but passed up on some really open looks.
beninator: What player(s) do you think have the best chance for a break out season this year?
Coach Jim Les: We don't use a numbering system with our players. We're more about putting them in positions to succeed within our system. I will say both MK and JP have shown very good versatility, and as a coach, that gives you a lot of flexibility and it gives a player more opportunity to get more minutes.
t: patrick_obrian, is that freebie offer open to BradleyFans members?? ;0
da coach: jeffsu- the coach answered an earlier question about a team leader and "go to guy"- and he said probably Sam M. would be that guy
patrick_obrian: Sure stop by and see me. If I am available sure.
AEfor3 from x.x.x.103 changed name to AEBravesFan 14 minutes ago
SFP: Do you expect EM to take a bit more shots this year. It seemed he passed up a bunch of wide open opportunities from the top of the key.
Coach Jim Les: Sammy shot the ball great in Brazil, in excess of 45 percent, and that's a result of working really hard on his shot this summer. What we will work on with him in this preseason is more of the scorer's mentality. He passes up shots, not because of lack of confidence, but because of unselfishness.
Braves4Life: Does Massive Mike Williams have a son? Can we expect to see BU sign another man-child like him in the near future?
SFP: got question
SFP: good
beninator: Do you think that there is a possibility for us to utilize two bigs on the floor at the same time this year?
jeffsu: I guess I was considering more of the aspect of who is in the huddle barking at the team and boosting some adrenaline, moreso than the on-court finisher.
t: what is the definition of a "man-child" ?
Coach Jim Les: Eddren also worked very hard this summer on shooting the basketball and has shown marked improvement in our skill workouts. We will expect him to take, and make, those shots as he progresses from a freshman to a sophomore.
Braves4Life: 6'8", 250
t: gotcha
SFP: Mike Williams
Coach Jim Les: Massive Mike has a daughter who is good size. I'll have to tell Paula.
SFP: defintion in webster has his pic
beninator: you beat me to it sfp
Coach Jim Les: We're always looking for a man-child
patrick_obrian: I was thinking that with his point guard mentality that could have been the other end of the spectrum. He can fill that "gunner" spot well ala JC. 45% is EXCELLENT NEWS!
t: There's a big kid at Woodruff...6-9 andout 280...but who knows where the Woodruff kids will be next year
Braves4Life: he's probably too short pob
Big Mike: Was you surprised by TB play in Brazil as far as scoring?
Coach Jim Les: Sammy is the vocal team leader.
afan: Coach, do you recruit in all states or deo you have certain areas that you focus on?
Braves4Life: but eastman might fill that role pob?
SFP: Are we going to prepare a game plan differently for that game in Utah with the altitude?
beninator: I like and appreciate what Sam Singh has overcome during his tenure here. Any chance Sam Singh will be a captain this year?
BUAlum: First year for the MVC/MWC challenge - what are your thoughts? It seems like BYU is a great opponent to have in the non-conference
Coach Jim Les: Milos is an excellent shooter, is a skilled passer and ball-handler and has a Euro-type offensive game. His intangibles are his toughness, competitiveness and work ethic.
SFP: When are you going to schedule a game out in CA?
patrick_obrian: True B4L
beninator: as close to San Francisco as possible righ SFP
SFP: Absolutely
Coach Jim Les: The MVC/MWC challenge is something all of us coaches pushed for. This is a "like" league that will help all of us improve our scheduling ability. We're very excited about the challenge of facing a very good BYU team and we will know right away how good we are.
t: Maybe wait 'til Yuba gets another 7-footer
SFP: USF, CAL, Stanford, Santa Clara there's a bunch
rocksolid from x.x.x.42 joined the chat 8 minutes ago
SFP: St. Mary's
Coach Jim Les: Captains will be up to a players vote, but we are very excited to have Big Sam back. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and we expect production from him.
Braves4Life: I'd like to see BU play Wake Forest
Big Mike: Are we outgrowing the BracketBuster?
Normal Paul: I like the conference challenges, would you like a challenge with another conference, also I think the bracketbuster gets you one good game the next season.
Coach Jim Les: SFP, do you have any CA connections? We have Dec. 22 and 23 open. You can facilitate all you want.
t: Question for Coach Les: Tell us how it feels to play against a friend and former assistant like Lennox
SFP: Does it?
da coach: Coach has said they have contacted just about every D1 school and given them available dates.
Braves4Life: go get stanford sfp
SFP: I'll make a call or two!
rocksolid: How is Andrew progressing? Any worries about him being healthy for game one and staying healthy?
MacabreMob: Get right on that SFP!
shaunguth: Just curious Coach......do you prefer red-outs or white-outs and do those nights get the players/staff especially pumped up?
Coach Jim Les: I surprisingly became a little more sentimental prior to that game with SIU-E than I though I would. I have tremendous respect and appreciation for Lennox and it became more of a distraction prior to the game than I anticipated.
da coach: The question about Andrew was answered above- he will be cleared for full practice, and is very close to 100%
jeffsu: At least we know we cant complain about not getting an extra game... he's even letting us try to schedule. Guess thats one of those "you see how tough this is... try it!" things...
Love it!rocksolid: thanks coach. sorry I joined late
Coach Jim Les: I think the staff and players prefer the White Out. The Red Out should be an every game occassion.
t: amen
shaunguth: Agreed! Perfect answer on the red-outs!
Big Mike: Have you ever coached a nicer person tha Dodie?
t: what's with these Bradley people who wear purple or green to a Bradley game??
da coach: What qualities do you like in Dyricus Simms-Edwards
Coach Jim Les: Dodie is the best
Fansince69: Has AT praticed at the 4 position or only the 5 positon ?
Fetz86: Have the players asked again recently about the possibilites of black jerseys?
patrick_obrian: T- that really irritates me
SFP: Coach thanks for recruiting great citizens as well as basketball players. Are there any ball players you looked the other way because they looked like trouble?
Big Mike: Did you anticipate Chris Roberts having the impact he has?
Coach Jim Les: I like DSE's strength and athleticism, his ability to get to the basket. He has a good feel for the game and he is a really good on-the-ball defender.
patrick_obrian: Coach what kind of pull do you have to get some game shorts and jerseys out on the shelves?
shaunguth: Me too.....I work evenings just across the street from the PCC and bring my Bradley sweatshirt/hoodie to change into for the game!
Coach Jim Les: There is no question the last few years, we have passed on some very talented players because they did not fit the "complete" mold of a Bradley student-athlete that we look for.
romar: Coach - we have seen pics of the new uniforms - I expect home & away uni's but are there going to be an alternates this year? heard a rumor.
Braves4Life: Good point SFP. I'm really proud to be a BU alum every time I hear our players speak in public. No time moreso than the players sent to the podium during our Sweet 16 run.
Coach Jim Les: Chris Roberts: Yes, I have a lot of respect for Chris' abilities. He is also a hard worker who wants to be good, and that's a great combination for such a talented young man. My expectation is that he will have a big year.
beninator: Do you have an opinion on the recruiting rankings from Scout or Rivals? pro or con...
jeffsu: While we know you cant speak on specific recruits, is it frustrating to have your eyes on a top recruit (say out of Kentucky...) who visits and then commits elsewhere shortly thereafter?
SFP: LOL
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