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Sunday, June 22
Duke Football hosts juniors and gets a local commitment
by
Mark Watson
on Sun 22 Jun 2008 12:00 AM EDT
Charles Westfall covered the Duke Football Camp on Saturday. Here are his thoughts -
Familiarity can be a comforting thing. That thought struck me as I lumbered down the steps of Wallace Wade for the second edition of Duke's Junior Day. Because as I approached the field, you could hear chants of "do not round your cuts, son", "nice catch, #35", and "finish, finish, finish....I don't care if you're going to win that drill, you will complete it". These were the types of things that I heard the Saturday before.
Duke's Junior Day is considered an evaluation type of camp, but there were subtle teaching points going on. If you walked over to the practice field, then you could spot Mike MacIntyre telling his offensive line proteges to "always have your hands open and making a small target. Your hands have to be your camera. Remember what the guy said in the movie The Patriot: Aim small, miss small". Receivers were instructed to keep their cuts sharp and not cross their hands when catching a ball. Simple, but important stuff.
Though the names of the 270 attendees weren't provided, the effort by the players and coaches to do the right thing was always visible. Coaches and players from Hillside, Southern Durham, Myers Park (Charlotte), R J Reynolds (Winston-Salem), and players who ventured outside the state from places like Pittsburgh eagerly lined the field.
Not surprisingly, there was an abundance of talent making a mark. A tall receiver from the Midwest surprised campers and coaches alike with his separation. A local product, Kendrick Williams, prevented a receiver from getting off the line by utilizing good leverage. In fact, I spoke with one local coach who said that 10 skill players showed up to the camp. He calmly told me that "we've got several guys at this camp who can run and hit, and are quick as lightning". After witnessing these kids, I looked up and half jokingly said, "Coach, do you have any players that don't run a 4.4". He said, with a big grin, "Yeah, they're just not here today".
Drills ranged from defensive lineman hitting obstacles and taking precise cuts to cornerbacks alternating between press and zone coverage on wide receivers. Offensive linemen diligently used "step slide" techniques instead of "hopping" from one foot to the next. Defensive linemen speared tackling dummies with purpose. At the end of the day, sprints between the linebackers, tight ends, quarterbacks, linemen, cornerbacks/wideouts really punctuated the day. The kids were straining to finish in the top 3 of each race for nothing other than pride.
Some things to note:
Danny Parker, Colin Jones, Thad Lewis, Alfred Williams, and Kinney Rucker were on hand to assist the "campers". All looked to be in fine shape. Colin even took some time to speak to this reporter's nephew who was attending the camp, and offered a lot of encouragement and some good advice. Coach Cutcliffe made a special point to recognize these individuals.
Hillside product Corey Gattis verballed an offer to Duke after the event, and this is particularly significant. The last very talented recruit to matriculate to Duke (and someone can feel free to correct me) was Emmitt Tilley. Tilley starred at Duke, and later became a standout linebacker for the Miami Dolphins.
Saturday, June 21
Boynton lighting up the NBA Top 100
by
Mark Watson
on Sat 21 Jun 2008 09:34 AM EDT
Duke has long been after Kenny Boynton who is one of the nation's premier prospects. BDN Premium is covering the NBAPA Top 100 Camp and I can tell you first hand that he has not disappointed. His scoring numbers going into today are 16, 17, 15, 13, 12 and 16. Keep in mind that he is on a star studded team, which includes Brandon Knight, Daniel Orton, Deron Lamb, Damon Powell ... you get the picture. He plays for just one half of the games total minutes. His team is 3-0 going into today's playoff. Members of BDN Premium will get complete coverage and a bevy of interviews starting next week. Of course, we already have a chat with Travis McKie and Jamil Wilson up.
Kenny Boynton poses with his teammate and friend Brandon Knight during a break at the NBAPA Top 100 Camp
Friday, June 20
BDN Premium talks recruiting with McKie
by
Mark Watson
on Fri 20 Jun 2008 03:00 PM EDT
BDN Premium talked to 2010 prospect Travis McKie about his recruitment. To read the entire article you must be a subscriber. We will have lots of coverage having already secured multiple interviews. Paypal links are in the menu to your left.
Have a lot of schools been in contact?
Yeah. Wake Forest, Oklahoma, VCU ... I keep forgetting, everytime I have an interview I leave some schools out. North Carolina called Monday.
How many letters have you gotten of late?
A lot. I will look at them when I get home. I got a letter from Duke recently.
So, you would be open to Duke if they came in?
Duke is a great school. I mean Coach K, one of the top five college coaches ever. We can't say that around here (as a UNC family member of another player turned around while both laughed)
To read the entire interview and more, subscribe to Blue Devil Nation Premium!
Quarterback prospect has interest from Duke, Missouri and NC State
by
Mark Watson
on Fri 20 Jun 2008 12:42 AM EDT
Charles Westphal caught up with a quarterback prospect who visited during the Duke Football Camp.
Josh Byrum (2009) QB - Victory Christian, Charlotte, N.C.
1) How did the Duke camp go, Josh? How did you feel about the guys that you were "repping" against?
Josh: I really liked it. Coach Roper worked with me. The other QB's were really good, but the thing that surprised me the most about the camp was the speed (ie of the receivers and defensive backs).
2) As you self evaluate, what were some of the things that you needed to work on?
Josh: I'm always working on my technique--specifically my drops.
3) How about your footwork?
Josh: I'm always working on that. (Josh politely indicated that improving footwork is something that is habitual).
4) How do your classify yourself as a QB? Are you pro-style or a dual guy?
Josh: Pro style.
5) Where else have you camped?
Josh: I camped at Missouri a few weeks. ago. The camp went very well. I received good coaching there, also.
6) So what are the schools that have confirmed interest?
Josh: NC State, Duke, and Missouri
7)What are your goals going into the season?
Josh: Just getting it all together. Last year, I threw for 12 or 13 TD's and for 1300 passing yards. We run a lot of our offense out of the I formation. We were 6-4 last season, and I feel confident that we'll be in the playoffs.
8) So, I'm assuming that with that formation that it naturally gives you time to set up play action?
Josh: Absolutely. Also, we have a good set of running backs as well.
9) Did you get to visit with Coach Cut?
Josh: Not really, he was overseeing everything. Coach Roper was very solid, though.
Thanks, Josh
Josh: Thank you, sir.
Thursday, June 19
Blue Devil Nation Premium is on the scene! Jamil Wilson interview is up!
by
Mark Watson
on Thu 19 Jun 2008 04:51 PM EDT
If you have been sitting on the sidelines thinking about joining Blue Devil Nation Premium, now might be the time to try us out. We just put up a Jamil Wilson interview fresh from the NBAPA Top 100 Camp where some of the nation's top high school stars are playing in an invite only tournament. Wilson is on the Duke recruiting radar and we get down business with our coverage to give you the scoop.
Mark Watson - Do you have a dream school?
Jamil Wilson - Grant Hill was my favorite player and obviously he went to Duke, so I mean, Duke was always a dream school of mine. It's not like a guarantee I am going there, but it's definitely an option. Duke was probably my dream school.
Read the entire interview and more by becoming a member of our premium section. He had some good things to say about Coach K and the Blue Devils!
Jamil Wilson defends his man during a game which just concluded.
This was but the first of many interviews. In fact, Kenny Boynton, Nate Lubick, Brandon Knight, Travis McKie, Josh Hairston, Terrell Vinson and a few names we'll keep to ourselves will soon follow. We will be dropping camp notes along the way as well. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to sign up by going to one of the three paypal links in the menu to your left.
Blue Devil Nation Premium Subscriber Rates -
3 months - 36.00 6 months - 60.00 or a full year for 100.00
Our member retention rate is as good as it gets and we work hard to bring you up close and personal with all things Duke Athletics. Once you join, we will send a user ID and another one for our Premium Only Message Board, where you can discuss recruiting and the latest happenings with other Duke fans.
   
Here is Kenny Boynton, Josh Hairston, Brandon Knight and Terrell Vinson from today's event. BDNP will always bring you pictures to go with our coverage.
Al Featherston on 2008 Olympic Games
by
Bob Green
on Thu 19 Jun 2008 07:09 AM EDT
Al Featherston has written another great article over at Go Duke. This one focuses on Coach K and the 2008 Olympic Games. The Olympic Team will be announced on Monday and their first game is on August 10th against host China.
Various links
by
Bob Green
on Thu 19 Jun 2008 05:27 AM EDT
The NBPA Top 100 Camp is being held in Charlottesville, VA. Duke recruiting targets Kenny Boynton and Brandon Knight are both in attendance as are Jamil Wilson and Terrell Vinson. ESPN has a nice preview of this event which features more than 100 of the nation's best prep basketball players.
In more news out of Charlottesville, Virginia forward Mamadi Diane will be out for a couple of months following foot surgery. Meanwhile, Sammy Zeglinski is healthy and ready to take on a larger role for the Cavaliers.
Davidson's Jason Richards worked out for the New York Knicks and hopes to be drafted or picked up as a free agent. Richards led the nation in assists with 8.1 per game.
Clemson and Oliver Purnell have finalized a contract extension. Coach Purnell has the Tigers program moving in the right direction and keeping him happily employed is a good move by the University.
Georgia Tech Coach Paul Hewitt would like to see the basketball season shortened so players can play less and study more.
Tuesday, June 17
NBA early entry links
by
Bob Green
on Tue 17 Jun 2008 07:52 AM EDT
The deadline for withdrawing from the NBA draft has passed and the college basketball world is a buzz with who is in and who will return to school so enjoy these dozen links, from newspapers, around the country, starting in Chapel Hill. Other notable players that have opted to stay in school include A.J. Abrams at Texas, Chase Budinger at Arizona, and Robert Dozier at Memphis.
Notable names staying in the draft include Mario Chalmers at Kansas, Luc Richard Mbah a Moute at UCLA, J.J. Hickson at N.C. State, and Ryan Anderson at California.
Mike DeCourcy says, "In one afternoon, with one press release, the entire nature of the 2008-09 season changed." Luke Winn weighs in with "Winners and Losers," while Adam Zagoria says, "Size Carolina up for rings." While Adam is stating that tongue-in-cheek, I will remind readers that every team is still going to lace up their Chuck Taylor's...uh...I mean their Air Jordan's next season.
Dawkins announces staff at Stanford
by
Bob Green
on Tue 17 Jun 2008 04:35 AM EDT
Dick Davey has joined Johnny Dawkin's staff at Stanford. Davey was previously the head coach at Santa Clara for 15 years and was honored four times as the West Coast Conference coach of the year. Also joining the staff is former Loyola Marymount head coach Rodney Tention. Prior to being a head coach, Tention served as an assistant at Arizona for eight seasons. One challenge Dawkins faced with his move to Stanford was a lack of west coast experience having spent his entire coaching career as an assistant at Duke. With the hiring of Davey and Tention, Dawkins has secured two assistants with extensive west coast experience. Mike Schrage, who followed J.D. to Palo Alto from Durham, was also named as an assistant coach on the staff. Schrage was previously the director of basketball operations at Duke.
Duke Football Camp was a success
by
Mark Watson
on Tue 17 Jun 2008 01:25 AM EDT
The Duke Football coaches held the first session of their annual camp this past Saturday. Participants came from all over the country and there were some obvious changes in the way the new Blue Devil coaching staff ran the ship. Pardon the pun, ran the ship, for these kids truly ran on a typically hot day in June.
Much like the team's spring football drills, work ethic and hustle were the keywords. There was no loafing tolerated between stations and if a participant did drag butt, a coach would give him a scream to insure them that this was not accepted. In short, it was a test of endurance where the Duke Football staff could see how players performed with little time to think of the last play they made.
He's cramping ... out of gas or pushing came out of the mouths of concerned parents as the final drills were performed. Their concern was that Duke would remember their son as they tired during this audition of sorts. Some of these kids will take a lesson home with them, one being to get into better shape to make it to the highest level of college football.
Careful attention surrounded each drill. Unlike last season, a participant would often run the drill until he got it right or would be instructed on his faults and lauded for their attentiveness and or proper execution. Linebackers were taught to keep their hips open, offensive lineman how to drive their opponent, quarterbacks how to square up and look off wide outs, etc.
Before the session began you could hear a bellowing yell come from the tunnel saying, "Are you ready for some football?" Coach Cutcliffe would then scour the turf at Wallace Wade Stadium and the practice field watching over his talented staff like a CEO would a corporation. Much like practices, there was a sense of organization, direction and a clear plan on what was expected.
One clear sign of Cutcliffe's shadow were the numbers attending the camp. That number doubled from last season and keep in mind that there is one session left this coming Saturday. "We built a relationship with Coach Cutcliffe when he was at Tennessee," said one coach who had four players there. He continued, "Some of my guys are being recruited by the nation's heavyweights, but they all like Duke."
Almost every prospect that I talked to mentioned the opportunity for a great education. While schools like Michigan and Auburn might talk a good game, they cannot necessarily offer the opportunity to play and they will often recruit over a player more than one time. Some of these kids will learn that the hard way, while others will be made aware of this by coaches, mentors or family.
Duke took the opportunity to make them aware that this is now a football school as well as a basketball school. They were made aware of the changes in store and those who attended last year saw the obvious changes first hand. The participants toured a bit of campus after their lunch, one saying, "You can feel the urgency and know that they will compete right away under Coach Cutt."
"We are going to sign five lineman, but they're going to be special," said Coach Luke to the participants. Coach Middleton said it in a more intimidating way. Ex Duke football star and NFL player, Scottie Montgomery was certainly active too, not afraid to tell a prospect that he was messing up his field. The fact is that in a few brief conversations with parents, every coach was mentioned for their relationship in the recruiting process.
One of the most mentioned topics by the attendees was the opportunity for a top notch education at Duke. Not all of these kids will make it to the NFL, many realizing or entertaining the thought of what a Duke education means. They were also encouraged by Coach Cutcliffe to apply themselves in the classroom or that his program couldn't touch them.
As the day ended, several prospects talked to the Duke staff. Many came away impressed. "I can tell you right now, that I came away a better player after attending this camp," said an unidentified youngster. When asked if Duke had interest he stated, "They've been talking to me but haven't offered yet, but hopefully they will," His Dad then mentioned that Wake Forest and Virginia were in the mix, but that if the Blue Devils offered they would be the leader.
Sidebar - Coach Cutcliffe recently sold 20 plus season tickets in Knoxville, Tennessee. The owners of the tickets will bus down for the opener and when they can't make it, their tickets will go to local kids. The field was as bad as I have ever seen it. While no attendees mentioned it, I couldn't help but wonder why the University doesn't step up to the plate and fix the situation. If there is a commitment to football and you want to have a shot at big time recruits, you sure as heck have to present a field that looks as if it's cared for. Hopefully, this problem will be resolved sooner rather than later. Season ticket sales are way ahead of last year. It is bound to be an interesting and exciting year in Wallace Wade. I know I'll be there and hope you are too. Lastly, check back in for the Blue Devil Nation will amp up our football recruiting coverage. We are working on the interviews and they will be presented in our free section for the foreseeable future. Our mission is to cast the light on an up and coming program. I heard not one complaint other than a little whining about how hard the staff worked the players. As Coach David Cutcliffe said, "Are you ready for some football?" Get your season tickets here.
Monday, June 16
Duke Football plays host to campers and prospects
by
Mark Watson
on Mon 16 Jun 2008 03:15 AM EDT
Duke Football hosted round 1 of their annual camp this past Saturday. The Blue Devil Nation will have coverage from this event where we talked to some prospects and their parents which have interest in Duke. That said, please check back! Until that time, here is a photo gallery from the event. (View as slideshow)
Sunday, June 15
JMU no pushover for Devils
by
Bob Green
on Sun 15 Jun 2008 03:39 AM EDT
Frank Dascenzo states the home opener against James Madison University will be difficult and is advising Coach David Cutcliffe to give Coach George Welsh a call. Welsh coached the Virginia Cavaliers to 134 victories over 19 seasons, but he lost his home opener, back in 1982, 21 -17, to James Madison University.
Father's Day Article
by
Bob Green
on Sun 15 Jun 2008 02:18 AM EDT
This article from The Fayetteville Observer is a very nice read on the Capel Family. This coming season will be year three for Jeff Capel III at the helm of the Oklahoma Sooners program. His father, Jeff Capel, Jr. was the head coach at Old Dominion University for seven seasons.
Saturday, June 14
Gallery #3 from the Coach K Academy
by
Mark Watson
on Sat 14 Jun 2008 01:03 AM EDT
Here (View as slideshow) is the third gallery from the Coach K Academy. The majority of the pictures are shown with half of their original resolution.
Greg Paulus and Jason Williams entertained the crowd with some one on one.
Check out this read on new Duke Athletic Director Kevin White
by
Mark Watson
on Sat 14 Jun 2008 12:51 AM EDT
Blue Devil Weekly editor John Roth has an article up on new Duke Athletic Director Kevin White at Go Duke.
Thursday, June 12
Pagliuca enjoying Celtic's success
by
Mark Watson
on Thu 12 Jun 2008 02:59 PM EDT
He moved furniture to pay his way into Duke. Steve Pagliuca is now one of the owners of the Boston Celtics. He sent his son to Duke where he became a walk on.
Wednesday, June 11
Hill took piano lessons from Laettner
by
Mark Watson
on Wed 11 Jun 2008 02:11 AM EDT
Christian Laettner taught Grant Hill how play the keyboard! This article was originally done in April, but I missed it.
Tuesday, June 10
Coach K Academy Teaches Family, Relationships and More
by
Mark Watson
on Tue 10 Jun 2008 01:39 PM EDT
Once gain the Coach K Academy raised a substantial amount of money for charitable causes. The event took place this past week and was deemed a glowing success.
Some actually scoff at the notion that campers will pay $10,000 to attend the Coach K Academy, a fantasy camp which provides the ultimate Duke Basketball experience. What they fail to realize is that the money goes to the Emily K Center. In short the proceeds go back into the local community and it takes little research to see the tremendous benefits reaped during a special week.
Ask any attendee and they will be quick to tell you that they had a wonderful time and built relationships and learned lessons that will last a lifetime. Many of them have already made their mark on our culture. On one team is the head of ITunes. His opponent on a given day could be the gentleman who designed the new state of the art Duke Basketball Practice Facility adjacent to Cameron.
Do you think the attendees are pampered? Well, they are certainly treated with respect and are given full access to the Duke Family. However, when they hit the court it's all business. There you will see coaches like Chris Collins or Steve Wojciechowski get in their grills after a mistake. The reason? This camp is very realistic and the players are treated just as our scholarship players are in real life when the buzzer sounds for tip off.
You will often hear the aforementioned word, relationships in regards to Duke Basketball. It's an important component of K's philosophy and it's served Duke well. For some campers, relationships are built quickly in that it might be there first year. Others have attended multiple times, some actually having their names retired and hanging in Cameron during the event. Relationships are a Duke cornerstone and the players are taught to work as a cohesive unit both on and off the hardwood.
Another keyword when talking Duke Basketball is family. Each attendee is made to feel a part of that just as our players are. You will often see our alumni return, be it for a workout in the new practice facility or to rehab an injury. K always leaves the door open for ex players and I feel certain that he stays in touch with a lot of these men throughout the year.
A quick trip into Cameron Indoor Stadium during one of these games will attest even more to family. Every single member of the Duke Staff is committed to the experience, be it coaches, managers, SID workers, medical staff members and those in charge of the unique Legacy Fund . The mention of the Legacy Fund allows me the opportunity to bring up K's real family. His daughter works with Mike Cragg in this department and she shares in the duties of making all campers comfortable. It doesn't stop there! In the bleachers, flanking his eldest daughter Debbie will be her sisters, their husbands and a bushel of kids, some adoringly hanging off K's arm as he sits with his wife Mickie. In short, all of them are completely on the same page which is more a testament to love than the military precision of K's behemoth Duke Basketball machine.
Yep, these men get an experience that most call a bargain and others call a dream. On day one they play for all the coaches in order to be evaluated for an NBA style draft with no expense spared. The same trainers Duke has will attend to the ills from spills. Participants walk by a tent city and their sneakers create the same squeaks on Coach K Court as has any past player you can name in recent memory.
The lessons they learn help them in their businesses or perhaps their personal lives. The experience is both ways in that the former players take home lessons from campers and fellow alumni alike. There are lots of hugs and exchanges of pleasantries.
I was simply a fly on the wall at the event, but I came away having gained knowledge and perspective. Duke Basketball and Coach K ( Team USA Coach) reached participants from all across the Nation and they all came together and raised money for some great causes.
Sidebar - The event raised and additional 500 K during their annual auction. New Assistant Coach Nate James made a big splash in leading his team to the championship. His team had a key hard fought win in OT over Collins team and they rode the momentum to the title game. Matt Hancock was again the Academy's leading scorer. Other stat stuffers are as follows, Duke Football SID, Art Chase, Fred Perpell who designed the new practice facility, Scott Walker, Rick Schaull, Ted Virtue, Jeff Klein, Steve Cronin, Rich Grodin, Jeff Feinberg and others as well. In the end, James team showed balance with a roster consisting of Rick Schaull, Brian Grodin, Chuck Goldfarb, Tim Dunstan, Bob Porcelli, Eddy Cue, Clifton Knight, Tom Gardner and Ty Miller. The Blue Devil Nation captured the spirit of the event in our photo galleries which will be updated shortly. So, please check them out.
Leslie McDonald picks UNC
by
Mark Watson
on Tue 10 Jun 2008 02:15 AM EDT
Leslie McDonald committed to North Carolina, picking them over Duke, Tennessee, Memphis and Georgetown. The announcement was made late last evening and came shortly after he had done four interviews with various sites saying he had not decided.
McDonald told the Blue Devil Nation that he works out with Duke commitment Elliot Williams and that he had not made a decision in a detailed interview. His reasons for picking UNC was his comfort level with Roy Williams. He actually had dinner at center court in the Dean Dome over the weekend.
Members of the Blue Devil Nation can read his lengthy interview where he certainly seemed to be inclined to wait a bit on his decision. Nothing should surprise anyone in recruiting, but this one kind of stunned me for he suddenly made a choice just two hours after the interview.
While Duke coveted his services, they have several others who may get his offer in the wings. One recruit will not derail the Blue Devils and they will move on quickly.
Monday, June 9
Team USA back in Vogue - Kenny Boynton eyes a spot
by
Mark Watson
on Mon 09 Jun 2008 02:01 PM EDT
Mike DeCourcy has another solid article up at the Sporting News where he talks of the popularity surrounding Team USA Basketball. In this article he mentions the fact that Duke target Kenny Boynton Jr. will compete for the U-18/19 team.
 Kenny Boynton dunks in Cameron
"Next month, as the Olympians are preparing for their assault on Beijing, the United States will field a team in the U-18 FIBA Americas Championship, a qualifier for the U-19 World Championship scheduled in 2009. Many elite high school prospects, including scoring machine Kenny Boynton of Miami and burgeoning New York legend Lance Stephenson, have committed to trying out for the 12-man squad that will travel to Argentina. Those making the team will miss out on most of the big shoe camps and tournaments on the July recruiting circuit." - DeCourcy
Sunday, June 8
Picture of the Day
by
Mark Watson
on Sun 08 Jun 2008 01:21 AM EDT
They called him "Tinkerbell," but his real name is Gene Banks. He is one of the most cherished players in Duke Basketball history having helped get his team to the National Championship game as a freshman. He threw roses to the Cameron Crazies after beating UNC on senior day. All he did was put the game into overtime with a shot (that would be a three pointer now) over the outstretched arm of Sam Perkins. We'll break it down for you later, until then enjoy this picture of the Banks family.
Elton Brand in Philly?
by
Mark Watson
on Sun 08 Jun 2008 12:42 AM EDT
Former Duke All American Elton Brand is considering leaving the Clippers. The Sixers are said to be interested. Elton is coming off the dreaded Achilles tendon injury. I can relate for I am rehabbing the same misfortune. Anyhow, wherever Elton ends up, I will pull for him and watch his progress with interest.
Thursday, June 5
Coach K Academy Links
by
Mark Watson
on Thu 05 Jun 2008 12:44 AM EDT
Tuesday, June 3
Duke sets kickoff times for the first three home games
by
Mark Watson
on Tue 03 Jun 2008 02:11 PM EDT
DURHAM, N.C. -- Kickoff times for Duke's first three football games have been set as Atlantic Coast Conference Commissioner John D. Swofford announced the league's early-season television schedule on Tuesday afternoon.
Duke opens the year with a pair of 7 p.m. tilts against James Madison on August 30 and Northwestern on September 6. On September 13, the Blue Devils ... more »
Monday, June 2
Questions and Answers on Blue Devil Nation Premium
by
Mark Watson
on Mon 02 Jun 2008 01:31 PM EDT
If you are looking for the answers to burning questions pertaining to Duke's top basketball prospects, you may want to join Blue Devil Nation Premium. Here is a list of some of our latest offerings.
Kenny Boynton recently visited Cameron and we have his thoughts in a true one on one interview!
John Wall - the super guard prospect allowed us to get to know him and we will let you know where he stands in the recruiting process. This interview went up late last evening.
Kenny Boynton Jr. - He has been Duke's #1 target for the 2009 class since last summer. BDNP has an exclusive and genuine one on one with Kenny where we also talk to his Father about the process. Find out when he will likely come back to Duke and what's on his mind. When you are done with that, there is another interview with him during the recent TOC and another to come!
Mason Plumlee - No site has covered the Plumlee family better than the Blue Devil Nation. We talked with Mason overt he weekend and will soon add a feature about his budding rivalry with Ryan Kelly.
Derrick Favors - After talking with the Derrick three times in the past week, we have a better feel about the consensus #1 rated prospect. Come on in and find out the answers about this talented prospect.
Travis McKie - The BDN covered this rising 2010 star in a big way at Boo Williams, but we really got to know him recently and have an in depth analysis on his game and of course his comments. This offering will be up this week.
Nick Russell - We still haven't posted his final interview! I was able to check his game out for the first time and I will share the true buzz with you. Find out about how he grew up a sold Duke fan and hear about this prospect in his own words.
Josh Hairston - This talented 2010 prospect has caught the Blue Devils attention. I talked recently and the results from that chat go up tomorrow.
BDNP covers more than recruiting. You will get tips on what is going on around Duke Athletics. You will also receive the best illustration available on the subject matter that can be found on the web. You can catch up with the past happenings in our archive and read about many things some sites are just know finding out. You can count on our information and always know that this site will work hard to bring you good coverage. There is a reason we are termed the most "Dukecentric" site around, just as there is our retention of members. Having years of experience around the programs you and I both love makes it easy to give trustworthy analogies. So, go to the paypal links and join us! Memberships are 36.00 for three months, 60.00 for six and a bargain at 100.00 for an entire year. Once you have joined, we will send you a user ID and instruction on how to join the Premium Only Message Board where you can talk the latest happenings over with fans.
 John Wall talks to the Blue Devil Nation
   
Left to Right, Plumlee, Favors, Russell and Hairston
Nate James talks about his camp and being an assistant coach
by
Mark Watson
on Mon 02 Jun 2008 02:01 AM EDT
Former Duke players Nate James and Chris Carrawell run an annual basketball camp in Durham, N.C. The Blue Devil Nation talked with Nate about the camp . Nate wants to share the Nate James-Chris Carrawell Basketball Camp information with both fans and parents. Nate was also kind enough to allow me an interview with him. He talks about his new responsibilities and an assistant coach, including what he brings to the table. You are sure to enjoy his answers. The interview follows the camp information. Please take the time to read the camp information and consider donating to a worthy foundation. Then read on and enjoy the interview. It is sure to make you want the season to start tomorrow!
Session Dates - July 14-18, 21-25, 28-(8)-1 Hours 9 A.M. to 4 P.M. Monday-Thursday and Friday's 9 A.M. to 3 P.M.
Location - Durham Academy
Details - This is a day camp, meaning you kids will be dropped off an picked up daily. Cost $200.00 per week. There is a special. If you sign up for two weeks of camp, you get the third week for free.
Help Nate and Chris send a deserving kid to camp - There is a scholarship program set up which is a non profit foundation. Nate and Chris will accept donations be it five dollars, two hundred for a full scholarship or 2000 dollars. The kids chosen have good academics or have served in some way in the community. A coach, teacher or someone in the community are among those who will put a kid up for a scholarship.
What can parents, a mentor or someone donating funds for a scholarship expect a kid to learn and take from the Nate James-Chris Carrawell Basketball Camp?
What we try to do is provide a Duke experience. We structure the camp from a morning session through the afternoon. We will work on drills and teach them the fundamentals of the game. Throughout the course of the day, we have 3 on 3 and 5 on 5 play because it's important not only to learn the skill, but to apply it. We will teach them some of the same drills we have here at Duke and try to instill confidence through hands on teaching. By teaching them about the game, we are also teaching them about life. You know, like working hard each day, in a team concept with other people you may not know. Our goal is to teach them how to be successful. When freshman come into to Duke you don't know all the players, so you have to learn to adjust and become part of a team. We will try to instill that same introduction into the camp participants.
Elaborate a little bit more on what a normal day might be for a camper.
Our camp is divided by age. We have the NIT (6, 7, 8) , NCAA (9, 10, 11) and the NBA (12-17). We will break them down and work on certain drills whether it be shooting, rebounding, defense, agility drills ... every aspects of the game. We will have breaks where we discuss fundamentals, divide teams up to play some 3 on 3. We then break for lunch and come back and play some 5 on 5, but we always end the camp on fundamentals. In order to be a better basketball player, you have to learn the fundamentals.
So, Chris and yourself will be there. How about other players?
Nate James - Yes. Chris and myself will almost always be there, unlike some camps where the sponsor or the person it's named after will make one or two appearances leaving the hands on teaching to others. We will bring Duke Basketball players in, both men's and women's and will have them speak to the campers and give lectures. For instance, we will have Greg Paulus come in and show some ball handling drills and there will be many others. We want to show them that Duke Athletes are players just like them and that they work hard, hoping to give them something to aspire to.
So, the kids are assured a great experience ..
Nate James - Oh, definitely, definitely, It's to learn the game and have fun. Those are the two things. If they go out and give 100% and throw themselves into it, they will learn and have a great week of camp regardless of their current level of play. We get a lot of the kids coming back who have been attending the camp since the first year. We now have good experience running this event. I think we are doing a lot of great things and this summer we will continue to do so.
This camp is for boy's and girls?
Nate James - Yes, it is coed. It's a great camp, especially for the money. I really try to give them everything they may have at the Duke Camp, but a lot of people can't afford a Duke or a UNC Camp, so we try to offer a similar experience. We will give kids an opportunity they may have missed at the more expensive camps which includes bringing men's and women's players in. There will definitely be a Duke feel to our camp and they are sure to get some autographs as well. It's a good time!
A note to readers - There are a lot of deserving kids who cannot afford to go. I have two in my area which come from difficult situations which makes it impossible for them to afford the clinic. They make good grades, stay out of gangs and trouble and love to play basketball and more importantly show the character their community is in need of. If you would like to help send these two kids to the camp, I will personally make sure they get there daily and can guarantee you it will help them tell others of their experience. I work with youth groups and I am currently stretched a little thin. If you would like to help, you can contact me watzonebdp@gmail.com or when making a donation to Nate's Foundation, mention Mark's kids.
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Nate James Interview -
Congratulations on being named the new assistant basketball coach at Duke University. I am very happy for you and think you will do an excellent job in your new position.
I'm really excited about it. It's an honor to be a part of the staff here at Duke. I'm looking forward to bringing the same things as I brought when I was a player and hopefully the experiences I had will help the guys who are already here.
Have you been able to get to know some of the players and will you work with them?
Yes, definitely. I recently retired from playing ball in Europe. Since that time I came in around November eventually being added to the staff.. Every summer I come back and I got to know the guys playing against them. Once I joined the staff in February as the Strength and Conditioning Coach, I was able to be around them even more, establishing even better relationships. I got a much better idea of who they guys are and what the coaches do on a daily basis during that time.
You played for Coach K, but what is it like now that you work with him?
I was fortunate enough to already be a part of the staff and get in on some of the meetings and kind of got in behind the scenes already. I'm just in awe of how disciplined and how hard he works. He's the most driven person I think I have ever met. I mean, each day, whether it is after a big game or a tough loss, he prepares the same way. When you have someone who shows you how to be successful and what he takes to do so is a tremendous opportunity.
Chemistry is obviously really important within the staff ...
It's very important! ( with emphasis) We're a team! The staff is a team. The same thing we try to instill in our players to go out there and be one unit and play as a fist, we do the same as a staff. We work together, everyone know their roles. We do everything possible in order for communicating the message of what we expect from the team. We want to make it easy to deliver a message to the guys, so they can do the same things on the court.
What are your short term and long term goals in coaching?
I just want to enjoy the process. Right now I am just excited to learn from Coach K, Wojo and Chris and just learn as much as I can everyday to be the best coach I can be right now. There is a lot I obviously don't know this being my first opportunity. I'm just a little bit awed and want to learn and do my best to help the current Duke Basketball team. Years down the line if I am prepared I will seek an opportunity. Coach told me from day one that he's not preparing me to be an assistant coach and that he one day expects me to be a head coach. That gave me a lot of confidence and showed how much confidence he had in me. I just want to be the best coach I can be for the players here at Duke.
I know that the rest of the staff has responsibilities later this summer with Team USA and their quest to win a gold medal. Will you hit the AAU trail this season or do some recruiting?
I will be able to get out the road on July the 6th. I will get started and will try and learn and play catch up on all the young prospects we are looking at. I will be getting familiar with these guys, trying to get to know their coaches. So, once I do hit the road for evenual in homes I will have some idea of the information needed. It's going to be something new for me, but I am excited to get out there and learn. After studying the prospects, I am amazed that there is so much great talent out there and I look forward to getting some of them signed up here.
What does Nate James bring to the Duke staff?
I bring a new set of eyes and ears. I believe I will bring more toughness. I'm an extra person on the bench that knows what coach wants since I played for him. I know what he is trying to get out of all the players. That's one of the reasons coach hires former players for we understand what he wants from us. In my situation I can relate to almost everything a player can go through. Coming in as a McDonald's All American and having to vie for playing time was something I had to adjust to. Having injuries which I eventually overcame and just the obstacles that as a player I had to face ... just overcoming so many things will help me. Just having that experience will help me give advice to help a young player and give him advice which might help him succeed.
What can Duke fans expect from the 2008-09 basketball team?
I think we are going to be an exciting team! We have more experience now. We only lose one player, who was a heck of a player for us in DeMarcus Nelson. With all the guys returning and all the young talent we have coming in ... we're going to be extremely athletic ... Olek, Elliot, Plumlee ... all those guys are extremely athletic and will go well with the guys we have here. The guys returning are very hungry to go out and get one of those championships we missed out on. I think we will have a great year.
Sunday, June 1
Sunday Morning Links
by
Mark Watson
on Sun 01 Jun 2008 09:59 AM EDT
Let's start off the morning with a must read on Johnny Dawkins. Johnny is profiled in this link by the S.F. Gate and they come up with some facts that even Blue Devil fans likely didn't know.
Duke has selected Notre Dame's Kevin White as it's new Athletic Director and in this link he is discussed from the Chicago Tribunes perspective. Here ia another link from the Chicago Sun Times and one from the South Bend Tribune. And here is Bryan Strickland from the Durham Herald Sun.
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