Transfers Eager To Rule Inside

[Mark]

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Transfers Eager To Rule Inside
http://www.abqjournal.com/sports/597610sports09-27-07.htm
By Mark Smith (http://www.abqjournal.com/cgi-bin/email_reporter.pl)
Journal Staff Writer
They are a long way from their roots— geographically and culturally— but Johnnie Harris and Monquel Pegues say they're feeling right at home in Albuquerque.
And both are looking forward to what they say will be a memorable season for the University of New Mexico men's basketball team.
"We're going to surprise everybody," said Pegues, a 6-foot-10 junior college transfer from Wilson, N.C.
"A lot of stuff happened last year, and their record wasn't good. But this year, we're going to be up there. It gets me more motivated, as newcomers, new coaches, that we've got to get this program turned back around."
Harris, a 6-8 JC transfer from Chicago, said "we're going to be nice. We're going to make some noise."
Harris was all-conference at Chipola (Fla.) College, averaging 7.3 points and 4.6 rebounds a game for the 33-3 Indians.
Pegues averaged 17.7 points and 7.1 rebounds a game last season at Cape Fear (N.C.) Community college and was honorable mention All-American in NJCAA Division I.
Both played in a juco all-star game last spring in Atlanta, and newly hired Lobo coach Steve Alford and assistant Craig Neal were there.
"Those two guys were a priority when we got the job," Neal said. "... We needed size, and sold (Pegues) on the opportunity to play right away.
"... We recruited Johnnie out of high school, and kept a pulse on him. ... When we got this job, it opened an opportunity for him and us."
Pegues is expected to battle 6-9 junior Daniel Faris as starting post, but "there's been a couple of times, playing pick-up or practicing or something, coach will put us in the game together and see how well we work together. ... We're like a powerhouse down there."
Harris said he'll play whatever role is necessary, and can make an impact whenever he's on the floor.
"I can contribute points, rebounds, whatever," he said. "... My strength is scoring in the paint. I score every time I touch it in the paint."
Pegues and Harris said it has taken a little while to get adjusted here, particularly with the altitude. But it's helped get them in shape, especially Pegues. He has dropped 21 pounds since coming to New Mexico at a hefty 285.
Then again, he has yet to try the local cuisine.
"I ate Mexican food a couple of times back home, but I haven't tried it yet here," he said with a smile. "I'm taking my time. I'm a barbecue guy."
New Mexican-style cooking, of course, is just one of the many differences between the Land of Enchantment and both North Carolina and Chicago. It's been an eye-opener.
"There was culture shock, ... but they've both done a great job and worked their butts off," Neal said. "They are both going to be successful."
They say the people of New Mexico and the Lobo veterans have helped them adjust.
"The returners really took us under their wings," Harris said. "It's not really like we're new. It's like we're just one family now."
"I'm loving it out here," said Pegues, who then chuckled. "Especially the people. ... A lot of people, who I don't know, they know me. They're excited. They're even more excited than I am."
OFFICIAL VISITS: They've already given verbal commitments to the Lobos, but this weekend men's basketball recruits Nate Garth, Will Brown and Isaiah Rusher make their official visits to Albuquerque.

[Roob]

"Especially the people. ... A lot of people, who I don't know, they know me. They're excited. They're even more excited than I am."

When I saw this quote, I thought about RPS offering words of encouragement and thanks to the young man after the first scrimmage.

[Hoser]

I really think if the Lobos had some more big men last season they would have finished top 3. We won't know now and it is behind us but this seasons team is basically last years team with some big men. I think the Lobos finish top 3 and challenge for the crown.

I have to say though, that if JR is not on board and playing up to his potential a top 3 would be tough to get. So far it seems as if the vets and the newcomers are mixing well. I am anxious to see all the newcomers.

How has Dairese Gary looked in the scrimages? I am looking forward to seeing him play.

[Roob]

I really think if the Lobos had some more big men last season they would have finished top 3. We won't know now and it is behind us but this seasons team is basically last years team with some big men. I think the Lobos finish top 3 and challenge for the crown.

I have to say though, that if JR is not on board and playing up to his potential a top 3 would be tough to get. So far it seems as if the vets and the newcomers are mixing well. I am anxious to see all the newcomers.

How has Dairese Gary looked in the scrimages? I am looking forward to seeing him play.

Dairese has been a pleasant surprise. He's holding his own and then some when he matches up against Prentice. He's physically stronger than our other guards, plays tough D, and has a very good 3 pt shot. More importantly he's not afraid to mix it up with the vets. For as young as he is, he's showing some strong leadership skills.

[loborick]

I really think if the Lobos had some more big men last season they would have finished top 3. We won't know now and it is behind us but this seasons team is basically last years team with some big men. I think the Lobos finish top 3 and challenge for the crown.

I have to say though, that if JR is not on board and playing up to his potential a top 3 would be tough to get. So far it seems as if the vets and the newcomers are mixing well. I am anxious to see all the newcomers.

How has Dairese Gary looked in the scrimages? I am looking forward to seeing him play.

What has JR done this year that has so many people doubting him? From reports I've heard from insiders, he has bought into SA's program and is a leader. But people continue to crap on him. Unsubstantiated rumors and and comments have popped up everywhere. Give the kid a chance. He hasn't done anything this year to deserve it. If he does, then get on him. Until then, leave him alone everyone! This isn't personal, Hoser. There have been so many that have made comments about him that I wanted to say something.

Gary has looked really good. He has a Mark Walters-type body (not there yet, but he's only a freshman) and has a much better 3-pt. shot than was advertised. He's going to have an impact this year.

[badger77]

I agree with you Rick. Most of the comments I’ve seen are unwarranted at this point.

Besides, I don’t believe JR’s troubles last season were entirely his doing anyway.

[loborick]

I also am very excited about Pegues. He has shown extreme dedication to this team by getting the large number of hours needed to qualify, then coming in and losing 21 pounds. I would never bet against him being a big force on this team this year.

[Duke]

The general rule of thumb (until proven otherwise....):
Freshmen and JC transfers take time to adjust and aren't usually impact players, unless they're McD AA or JC AA. Even then, a player has to prove himself on the court -- we have one of each from last year. Remember last year? But hope springs eternal.

And here's hoping that one or two of the new guys can make a consistent contribution. Doesn't have to be all-MWC (and probably won't.....), just solid and reliable. That should be enough for marked improvement. Anything beyond that from a newcomer is gravy. Throw in some defense, and we might even be pretty good.

(Heck...a comprehensible substitution pattern will be a MAJOR improvement!)

[Lobodawg92]

Rick,

I don't see what Hoser said slamming JR. I am a big JR fan, and hope for him to make some real noise this year. However, many of us are wondering what it will be like, based on last year. I know it is a new coach, a new system, but none the less, we have some doubt in our minds. You know what, JR plays team ball, I will be on the bandwagon all the way with him. If not, I too think we will struggle. I don't see this as a slam on JR, but as a valid concern for this year. Why, maybe because I was so on board for him last year, and came away with some burnt fingers. :-)

Go Lobos, Go JR!

[LoboMike]

I like our newcomers a lot. I think once this team gels, it will be very dangerous. I'm not going to predict anything too lofty at this point, but we will make some noise in the conference.

[loborick]

Rick,

I don't see what Hoser said slamming JR. I am a big JR fan, and hope for him to make some real noise this year. However, many of us are wondering what it will be like, based on last year. I know it is a new coach, a new system, but none the less, we have some doubt in our minds. You know what, JR plays team ball, I will be on the bandwagon all the way with him. If not, I too think we will struggle. I don't see this as a slam on JR, but as a valid concern for this year. Why, maybe because I was so on board for him last year, and came away with some burnt fingers. :-)

Go Lobos, Go JR!

It is a new year, a new coach, a new start. Why can't we give JR a new start also? Until he does something, everyone should leave him alone. I wasn't slamming Hoser. If you read my post, my response was directed at him. Do you want to be judged on what mistakes you've made in the past or on what you are doing now and what you can do?

If JR screws up, I'll be the first one on him.

[Mark]

In Ricks defense I think he was talking about some other people not Hoser. JR has a lot to prove to everyone including himself. I think he's seen the errors in his ways and has grown a lot over the summer. He has to prove to us (fans)the team and scouts that he's ready to be the geat player he's been dubed since 8th grade. That includes much more than scoring the ball. I'm 110 % behind him!!

[Lobodawg92]

I know you were not slamming Hoser. I also know you were responding to Hoser. As one who has expressed some doubts about JR this year, I spoke up.

Are we judged on our past? Every year I get an annual review. Just because I get a new one each year, all of my previous years are not tossed out. For sure, the most recent is the most important and my opportunity to correct mistakes, issues, attitudes, whatever. Also get kudos for good things. My boss and perhaps my co-workers are looking for me to correct certain areas. That is based on my past performance. When I got a new boss, he read through my past reviews, had different priorities, and a new slate to some extent. I see it as no different for JR. He has a history. One before he came here, and one last year. Am I hopefull this will be his year? For sure. Like I said, I am rooting for the guy big time. He could be one of the greatest players to ever put on a Lobo uni. If he does not buy in, I see us as competitive, but not a great team yet. If that puts me in the "gettin down on JR crowd", I guess that is where I am. However, I was only trying to make a point that there are some of us, I think a lot of us, who truly want to see JR succeed, but have somewhat of a wait and see how he does attitude, yes, because of his past. :-)

Peace and Go Lobos! GO JR!

[geezer]

I would encourage anyone who has not attended a shirts and skins event to go and see for yourselves.
I already see a difference in the TEAM, not just JR. More team ball and balance is what I have observed and these are just scrimmages. Wait until full fledged practice starts and watch this team come together even more.

[Loboexpat]

I would encourage anyone who has not attended a shirts and skins event to go and see for yourselves.
I already see a difference in the TEAM, not just JR. More team ball and balance is what I have observed and these are just scrimmages. Wait until full fledged practice starts and watch this team come together even more.

Love to hear that.

And concerning the impact of newcomers. It's true that it often takes them some time to get adjusted. It doesn't matter what high school hype was attached to them. But it's not unheard of for newcomers to make an impact and I don't think it's unreasonable to anticipate that some of this years newcomers can and will make an impact.

[LIDOakaLJT]

When I got a new boss, he read through my past reviews, had different priorities, and a new slate to some extent.


I wish my new boss had read my Supervisor's evaluation from THIS YEAR AND THE PAST --- maybe he would have realized that giving me a 0% increase was not expected nor warranted....ARGH!!!! Hence, my propensity to be a "slacker" lately.....okay, that and the fact that I'm totally excited about Lobo Sports and all the new coaches this year!!! WOOHOO!!!! :D


GO LOBOS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Mark]

Its funny reading the Iowa board. They are already saying that Lick cant recruit and the players there picking up were in the running with Wash ST, Santa Barbra etc.

[Dr.M]

JR, as anyone who has ever seen him on a court will attest, has God-given talents that are unreal. If I remember the story correctly, coming out of high school he was considered by many scouts to be the second most athletic senior in the country behind Lebron James ( I wonder what ever became of him). Granted, his work ethic and attitude have not always been ideal, but he has one last chance to show us and the NBA scouts what he is all about. I don't think he'll blow it. He has to temper his considerable (and well deserved) self-confidence and become more team oriented. I see signs in the scrimmages that he is doing that. I also noticed that after the last scrimmage in the Pit, he ran around in the stands seeking out spectators to shake their hands and thank them for supporting the team. I think he'll be fine.

[Garishwolf]

Great aticle report RPS as usual. hehe. Loved hearing from the two bigmen, both exited and looking forward to turned around program. gets me exited. Bout Gary too.

[Dirtman]

New year, new coach, new system and new players that can play..JR will be fine
remember if you live in the past you will die in the past....
http://aolsearch.aol.com/aol/redir?src=image&clickedItemURN=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cartoonresearch.co m%2Flobo2.jpg&moduleId=image_details.jsp.M&clickedItemDescription=Image Details

[Roob]

JR, as anyone who has ever seen him on a court will attest, has God-given talents that are unreal. If I remember the story correctly, coming out of high school he was considered by many scouts to be the second most athletic senior in the country behind Lebron James ( I wonder what ever became of him). Granted, his work ethic and attitude have not always been ideal, but he has one last chance to show us and the NBA scouts what he is all about. I don't think he'll blow it. He has to temper his considerable (and well deserved) self-confidence and become more team oriented. I see signs in the scrimmages that he is doing that. I also noticed that after the last scrimmage in the Pit, he ran around in the stands seeking out spectators to shake their hands and thank them for supporting the team. I think he'll be fine.

Nice post Dr. M. I didn't hang around to the end of the scrimmage as I had a commitment to be at another tailgate party, but I'm glad to hear about JR's actions. The young man has so much potential, he just needs to stay out of his own way (if that makes sense). Thanks for sharing the positives aspects of his behavior. From what I read on all these boards, everyone wants him to do well this year, even if they don't agree on the likelihood of that happening.

[Garishwolf]

I would encourage anyone who has not attended a shirts and skins event to go and see for yourselves.
I already see a difference in the TEAM, not just JR. More team ball and balance is what I have observed and these are just scrimmages. Wait until full fledged practice starts and watch this team come together even more.

I agree GEEZER, sounds like they're coming together, with other repots, and I'm behind them all including JR. He's growing up and owning up.:D:nerdy

[loborick]

Nice post Dr. M. I didn't hang around to the end of the scrimmage as I had a commitment to be at another tailgate party, but I'm glad to hear about JR's actions. The young man has so much potential, he just needs to stay out of his own way (if that makes sense). Thanks for sharing the positives aspects of his behavior. From what I read on all these boards, everyone wants him to do well this year, even if they don't agree about the likelihood of that happening.

Another commitment...what's that about? Have a beer with your Lobo friends, then go hand out with yuor refined, wine-drinking friends? If I need to bring a bottle of win, I got some Thunderbird, vintage June!

[Roob]

Another commitment...what's that about? Have a beer with your Lobo friends, then go hand out with yuor refined, wine-drinking friends? If I need to bring a bottle of win, I got some Thunderbird, vintage June!

:Afun):Afun) Actually we were shooting beers over at the other "commitment". That's my idea of refinement. I don't touch wine. I'll be sure to check the Expiration date on that bottle of wine you bring Rick - if it's gotten old we can always use it as salad dressing.

[Bloo]

When I saw this quote, I thought about RPS offering words of encouragement and thanks to the young man after the first scrimmage.

Hey! What about when they were being greeted and such during the scrimmage, as they sat out under the south basket?

[Roob]

Hey! What about when they were being greeted and such during the scrimmage, as they sat out under the south basket?

Making contact with players during a scrimmage is probably a violation of an NCAA rule. I didn't want to call you out on that infraction, Bloo. I hope you understand that I'm merely concerned for your well being. I've got your back, buddy. :>

[Remus Lupin]

I don't touch wine. I'll be sure to check the Expiration date on that bottle of wine you bring Rick - if it's gotten old we can always use it as salad dressing.

Expiration date on wine? Are you kidding? You really must not touch the stuff, or at least, not the good stuff .. ;-)

[Roob]

Expiration date on wine? Are you kidding? You really must not touch the stuff, or at least, not the good stuff .. ;-)

The stuff Rick is talking about comes without a cork - only a twist top. That should tell you all you need to know about the quality of his wine (rotgut).

[Garishwolf]

It's crazy, even the 40 buck good wines are going to twist tops, treehugers strike again.

What's a rich Santa Fe girls favorite wine?????? Daddy I wanted a Mercedes. lol

[Dr.M]

It's crazy, even the 40 buck good wines are going to twist tops, treehugers strike again.

What's a rich Santa Fe girls favorite wine?????? Daddy I wanted a Mercedes. lol

Very good, Garishwolf. Loborick's wine also comes with a straw taped to the bottle.

[loborick]

Very good, Garishwolf. Loborick's wine also comes with a straw taped to the bottle.


Yeah, and there's no smoking within 50 feet of the bottle.

[Garishwolf]

Yeah, and there's no smoking within 50 feet of the bottle.

AY AY AY RICK.:Afun):nerdy:Afun)