Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Big East Roster Notes -- Updated

According to Jerry Carino's Hoops Haven Blog, Seton Hall transfer Herb Pope's request for a waiver from the transfer rule was denied as of Monday October 13.

Pope transferred in from New Mexico State on the hope he could play for the Pirates this season. While Seton Hall will appeal the initial decision, the prospects appear (even) bleak(er). The best indication Coach Bobby Gonzalez holds little hope for success on Pope's appeal comes via his intent to apply for Keon Lawrence's waiver immediately. The Hall did not want both appeals before the committee at the same time. Consensus held that Lawrence's waiver had a better chance than Pope's.

Carino speculates that Pope may pass on the Hall and investigate professional opportunities in Europe next. Right now it appears that the Pirate's will go into the 2008-09 season with very few options available in the front court. If Lawrence is cleared to play this season he will help the back court.

Cincinnati recruit John Riek, a 7-2 center out of the IMG Academy in Florida has not achieved the necessary SAT(?) scores to enter Cincinnati this semester. According to Jeff Goodman's Good 'n Plenty Blog posting of 10/13 (Monday), Riek will remain in Florida as he continues to attempt to qualify. Plans are to have him up in Cincinnati by the end of the fall semester.

The Bearcats are loaded up front with sophomore Anthony McClain expected to split time with transfer Steven Toyloy, and bfs senior transfer Mike Williams, sophomore Kenny Belton and freshmen Yancy Gates. Head Coach Mick Cronan has a good many options in the paint even as Riek works to get himself ready academically and physically.

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