2012 Recruit Profile: Skylar Spencer

Skylar Spencer
PF 6-8 210
Los Angeles, CA (Price)
Follow Skylar Spencer on Twitter

Current List(Offers in Bold): USC, Gonzaga, Florida St., Marquette, UNLV, Colorado, Iowa, UCLA, UW, Utah


Ratings:
-Rivals.com 2012 #18 PF, #80 Overall (4*)
-ESPN.com 2012 #27 PF, UR Overall (3*)
-Scout.com 2012 UR PF, UR Overall (3*)
-2010 State Div. 4 Champion (as Sophomore)


Scouting Info:
ESPN.com,, "He has a terrific frame and his game has continued to evolve since his sophomore campaign. Spencer plays with great energy and possesses a blue-collar mentality despite having a wiry frame. His offensive game needs attention, both from a skill and fundamental standpoint, but he's an intriguing talent because he runs hard and fills the lane, usually finishing with a dunk. Defensively, he is an elite shot-blocker and his ability to rebound in traffic is improving."
also from ESPN.com,"Spencer has great length with long arms and his frame suggests that he isn't done growing. He is an exceptional athlete that can run all day. His rebounding prowess is impressive and he does a great job filling the lane after out-letting the ball. He has developed a solid half-hook shot over his right shoulder and he can elevate in traffic to dunk it. Defensively, he slides his feet well for a big and he's a top-tier shot blocker with excellent timing - it's not unusual for him to get multiple blocks during a half-court sequence."


We all know who is picking up the tab on this recruiting job. Donny Daniels has dramatically opened the doors on recruits from Southern California since his arrival on the bench. Skylar is very excited about Gonzaga and plans on taking a visit to Spokane soon. I wouldn't be surprised with an early commitment locked up if all goes well. Skylar looks and feels like a replacement for Elias Harris, they have similar athletic games, the biggest difference right now is on offense with Skylar still needing a lot of work. I'm sure Coach Few and Co. will be able to tap into his offensive potential and i expect if Skylar does commit that Sam Dower will be able to give him a few pointers on some offensive moves. Not much footage is available on Skylar yet, but i did find a nice long interview.

Its not Easy

The recent article on ESPN.com regarding the sexual orientation of former Villanova standout, Will Sheridan, got me thinking about how players cope with the mental stress of life while juggling their everyday role as a Gonzaga Mens Basketball player.

You can read the article on Will Sheridan HERE

Most players come into the program as teenagers, still learning what it is to be a man and what they ultimately will strive to achieve. Like the infamous NCAA commercial says, there are over 400,000 student-athletes, and almost all of them will be going pro in something other than sports. Basketball may not ultimately be their career, but while at Gonzaga they will become the man that eventually starts a business or maybe even a family. We as fans should examine our favorite players with a grain of salt. Sure that last three pointer missed badly, but what was on the players mind? We analyze that shot or their play with a microscope looking for some flaw or issue that needs their attention. Worse yet we curse at the television and blame the player or coaching staff for poor decision making, when at the end of the day there could be so much more than basketball on their mind.

Think about guys like Steven Gray who so epitomized the role of the student athlete with his forays into acting and his trip to Africa. He began his career in 2007 full of so much potential. His hair no more than an 1/8 of an inch long. No tattoos, nothing but a clean cut face that didn't look a day over 16. By the end of his freshman season we watched as he went toe to toe with Stephen Curry, matching the future NBA star shot for shot and looking like a future pro in his own right. Then he became a sophomore, and I'm sure many of us wondered what happened, he didn't look interested at times, almost disappeared on the court, his inconsistent play would continue throughout his career. We all screamed when he would miss shots that we just knew he could make. We all watched with glee as he dominated games with his defensive prowess in the passing lanes. Time after time i would shake my head, as he always seemed to have an uncanny ability to find the ball. At the end of the day, NBA scouts would leave the Kennel with the same feeling, shaking their head. I read a quote recently from an NBA scout who said Gray used to be considered a sure fire lottery pick, but has since become something of a pariah and as such his stock has noticeably fallen. He now sits somewhere near the back end of the second round as a fringe NBA player.

But, how does Steven feel about this? With his dread-locked hair and tribal tattoos, Steven was always more interested in Life than with Basketball. He went to Gonzaga to shoot the ball, and left ready to experience life. I wouldn't be surprised if he made an NBA team and found a niche, or even if he decided to take his talents to Europe for a few years. But at the end of the day, Steven will find his way, he will rise above Basketball and live life to the fullest. I am inspired by his take on life, I see Steven and i think about how much potential he has in Life. He will become something special, no matter what the NBA scouts say. I think Steven said it best when he said, "I've really enjoyed being a part of this program, They've taught me a lot, not just on the court, but in being a man." Next time we are watching a game, lets think about the players not just how they play, but who they will become.

Past Zags Update

While most of us stop following the players once they leave the program, I find myself wondering where they are, and what they have made themselves into. I will be doing a three Part look at some of the more famous Players of the last 15 years. Starting with Ronny Turiaf, Adam Morrison, Blake Stepp and Nathan Doudney.


Ronny Turiaf
Ronny Turiaf Twitter
Official Website

As one of the most memorable Zags and fan favorites, Ronny's success surely hasnt escaped the most seasoned Zag fans, but for those of you who havent been keeping up, heres a summary of his career.
Ronny has been playing in the NBA since he left the Zags in 2005. He was drafted in the second round at #37 overall by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2005 NBA Draft. 4 Weeks after the draft, the team signed Ronny to a 2 Year $1 Million deal, and as part of the deal he was required to have a routine Physical. What sounded easy and routine ended up showing that Ronny had an enlarged Aortic Root in his heart, ultimately requiring surgery. Ronny's contract was voided, but the Lakers retained his rights. Less than 6 months later after a short stint in the CBA with the Yamika Sun Kings, Ronny was resigned by the Lakers and was able to restart his NBA career.
Ronny has gone on to play for the Golden State Warriors and this past season was traded to the New York Knicks. He has averaged 5.8 Points and 3.8 Boards per game, He is also considered a tough veteran and has spent time as team captain with the Warriors and Knicks.


Adam Morrison
Adam Morrison Rumors

We all remember "Stachio" and his quirky personality, we also remember his clutch shooting and unmatched confidence. He would ultimately win Co-National Player of the Year with J.J. Redick and lead the Zags to the Sweet 16. Not a day goes by that i dont wonder what would have been had that fateful game in 2006 had finished differently, but alas back to reality.
Instead of moving on and having the career of the oft compared Larry Bird, Adam has settled for more of a career of mediocrity. Adam's NBA fortunes began with a bang, being selected #3 by the Charlotte Bobcats in the 2006 NBA Draft. He also had the distinction of being Michael Jordans first selection since joining the Bobcats front office earlier that year.
His rookie season was marred by inconsistent offensive and horrible defensive play. After the 06-07 season, Adam took on a rigorous offseason workout regimen and began to show signs of stardom, so much so that during the 2007 Preseaon, MJ began to hint at building the team around Adam.
On October 21, 2007, the Charlotte Bobcats announced that Morrison had sustained a severe injury to his left knee in a pre-season exhibition game against the Lakers. An MRI scan performed after the game indicated a torn ACL. I wouldnt be surprised if this is considered a career ending knee injury as Adam has not regained a regular role with any team since.
Adam was traded to the Lakers at the 2009 Trade Deadline and would go on to infamously cheer on the Lakers bench during their back to back national championships. Following the 2010 Season the Lakers unsurprisingly decided not to bring Adam back and he would later sign with the Washington Wizards, however he was waived at the end of Training Camp. Some have speculated that Adam may decide to retire following the 2011 Season as he has stated his desire not to play in Europe. Adam has averaged 8.6 Points and 2.2 Boards per game for his career.


Blake Stepp
Blake Stepp Poker Page

After leaving Gonzaga in 2004 with career averages of 13 Points, 5 Assists, and 3.9 Boards per game, Blake was drafted #58 overal by the Minnesota Timberwolves. He was later waived by the Wolves prior to the regular season, he would go on to have a 2 year career in the Euroleague Playing for the Serbian Club Partizan in 2004-05 finishing with averages of 13.1 Points, 2.5 Assists, and 2.2 Boards per game.
While this former Zag may not have had a long NBA Career, he has been playing Professional Poker of late and is actually pretty good. He has 1 top 10 finish in 2006 and has cashed in 6 times throughout his career for total winnings of $37,555.


Nathan Doudney
Nathan Doudney Poker Page

Many may not remember this former zag, he only played 1 official season, spending another as a redshirt with a torn ACL. ESPN actually had an interesting article on him in July of 2010 about his transformation into a Professional Poker player here.
During his time on the professional Poker circuit, he has done rather nicely for himself with 15 total cashouts for career winnings of $691,252. He has finished in the Top ten 4 times and the top 5 twice. Doudney may just be the best Poker Player to ever come out of Gonzaga.

Next up:
Austin Daye
Matt Bouldin
Dan Dickau
Josh Heytvelt

and...
Derek Raivio
J.P. Batista
Richie Frahm
Matt Santangelo

Recruit Profile: Chris Sarbaugh

Chris Sarbaugh
PG 6-3 180
Spokane, WA (Gonzaga Prep)
*Committed to Gonzaga on 11/6/2010


Accomplishments:
-2011 4A State Champion
-2011 4A State tourney MVP
-2011 Seattle Times POY


Scouting Info:
From his coach Matty McIntyre,, "He’s a playmaker, a creator, He knows we’re about team basketball, but he can pick and shoot his shots. He gets to the rim. He can play above the rim. We’re going to need him creating in the paint. He’s got a knack at finishing, He can finish with both hands, but he can finish with his left hand in traffic better than most kids at the high school level. He anticipates so well, He sees the game a few steps ahead of everybody."


Chris comes to the Zags without the need for a Scholarship, as his father taught there and will receive a tuition waiver. Chris is not just some walk-on, he actually comes as one of the top 3 vote getters for Player of the Year in the state. He can drive to the hole surprisingly quickly and has been known to knock down the big shot. He actually is pretty athletic and comes to the Zags with a 32 inch vertical leap. I would not be surprised to see Chris get solid minutes in the next couple years.

Recruit Profile: Guy Landry

Guy Landry
SF 6-5 210
Paris, France (Midland College JUCO)
*Committed to Gonzaga on 4/23/2011
Follow Guy Landry on


Accomplishments:
-2010-11 NJCAA National Champion
-2011 Parade All-American 4th Team
-Named to 2010 Ivory Coast FIBA team (Averaged 10.2 PPG, 2.6 RPG for tourney)


Scouting Info:
scout.com, "Physically mature and very strong, Landry is originally from France. He's a bit older than kids in his class -- turns (22 in December of 2010) -- and he takes advantage of that maturity on the court. He plays with great energy and he has the potential to be a very good defender. Shot and overall ball skills are just fair. A likely high major prospect."


Landry was heavily recruited by Missouri, Wichita State, and Minnesota, but in the end chose Gonzaga. Super Athletic, one of best high flyers in the entire country. Expect great defense, high energy minutes and lots of thunderous dunks.

Recruit Profile: Ryan Spangler

Ryan Spangler
PF 6-8 230
Blanchard, OK (Bridge Creek)
*Committed to Gonzaga on 9/27/2010


Accomplishments:
-2011 Oklahoma Gatorade POY
-2011 Parade All-American 4th Team


Scouting Info:
ESPN.com, "Spangler was one of the better surprises of the spring. The versatile 5/4 can impact a game in multiple ways. He has a solid (well-built) frame with fairly broad shoulders, good hands, and long arms. He has a blue-collar mentality at both ends of the floor and his fundamentals for the game are quite good. He is always around the basketball and he consistently makes plays in the paint area. He can finish with either hand and his timing is excellent while going for offensive rebounds and put-backs. His back-to-the-basket game is solid as well as he turns over his left shoulder very well and footwork is quite good. While facing the basket he is an excellent passer who understands angles demonstrating his feel for the game."

Recruit Profile: Kyle Dranginis

Kyle Dranginis
PG 6-4 180
Nampa, ID (Skyview)
*Committed to Gonzaga on 12/29/2009


Accomplishments:
-3 Time Idaho Press-Tribune POY
-2 Time SIC POY
-2 Time Idaho Gatorade POY


Scouting Info:
ESPN.com, "Dranginis is a multi-skilled guard for the next level. He has great size for both guard positions due to his length and skill. He has a feathery touch out to 23-feet and his stroke is smooth. His basketball IQ is tremendous-usually resulting in a number of nifty passes. He sees the floor very well, both in transition and the half court set. In addition, he can pass over the top of the defense to open shooters in the corners."


Dranginis continues a long line of great passing guards at Gonzaga. He comes in as one of the most accomplished players in Idaho history. Plays like a Point, but with his size may be able to play 2 guard at the College level. Expect comparisons to Matt Bouldin, not for his size, but for his court vision.

Recruit Profile: Gary Bell Jr.

Gary Bell Jr.
SG 6-2 200
Kent, WA (Kentridge)
*Committed to Gonzaga on 4/26/2010


Accomplishments:
-AP State (WA) Player of the Year, 2011
-Mr. Basketball 2011, WA
-Gatorade Player of Year 2011, WA
-Rivals #19 SG, #75 Player in 2011 Recruiting Class
-ESPN #18 SG, #67 Player in 2011 Recruiting Class


Scouting Info:
Scout.com, "Bell is clearly at his best playing off the ball where he can catch and shoot or attack going to the rim. He is slightly undersized to be a wing, and that limits him some on the defensive end, and his shot off the dribble can get a bit inconsistent. Still he is a good scorer off the drive or from deep and has the natural athleticism to be a factor on both ends of the floor."
ESPN.com, "Bell has a strong frame with nice length that can take contact while driving in the paint area and he's a good athlete. The strength of his game is shooting. He has a very smooth release and his shot is especially deadly in a catch and shoot situation. In addition to his shooting prowess he has improved as a passer and rebounder. He isn't afraid to bang inside for rebounds and igniting the fast break."


Gary Bell Jr. is the centerpiece to one of the Zags deepest recruiting classes in school history. Bell was ranked the 2nd highest player in the state after future UW Guard, Tony Wroten Jr., and also happened to be teammates on the same AAU squad, Seattle Rotary. His stock skyrocketed during the summer of 2010 while playing AAU ball, and he continues to impress with his great shooting and athletic ability.

Recruit Profile: Kevin Pangos

Kevin Pangos
PG 6-1 165
Newmarket, Ontario
Follow Kevin on
*Committed to Gonzaga on 10/5/2010


Accomplishments:
-In August 2010, Kevin became the youngest member to ever play for the Canadian Senior National Team at the age of 16.
-Named Top Point Guard at 2010 FIBA U17 Championships
-Named to 2011 Nike Hoops Summit World Team


Scouting Info:
Former Arizona Point Guard, Miles Simon, "He's smart, deceptively quick, is a great shooter, and can finish with both hands -- an excellent player."


NBADraft.net "His strengths are tailor-made for the college game. He can shoot and handle the ball; he's a great playmaker and a hard-worker defensively."


Part of the Canadian Basketball Renaissance, Pangos is considered the countries best Point Guard prospect since Steve Nash, who you may remember as a 2 Time NBA MVP (not to mention former player at WCC Rival Santa Clara). This "Best of" List includes the Rivals.com #7 player overall from the 2010 Class, Cory Joseph, formerly of the University of Texas and projected 2nd Round pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. All High Praise for such a young kid, but according to his National Team Coach, Leo Rautins (Father of former Syracuse, and current New York Knicks Guard Andy Rautins), Kevin will be a Special Player.

IM BACK!

OK...I know its shocking, but I'm back. I got tired of seeing some of the whining on message boards and decided it was time to jump back into the fray. Its time to reclaim the Blogosphere with my witty commentary and spry POV on all things Zags...(insert hysterical laughter here)...

I'm sure most of you barely remember, but at one time this Blog was happening! Well its back, and with a vengeance. This time around we're tougher, meaner, and nastier. Im not gonna keep censoring for the faint of heart, You've been put on notice!

Let me start with the recent Bulldog Buzz around the net: Apparently Demetri Goodson decided his basketball future was far less bright than his Football future and is transferring to some Lone Star State school who hasnt been relevant in football in years. Whatever, its his choice, I'm sure he will fizzle out with the Pigskin just like he never lived up to expectations in Bulldog Blue...Manny Arop is also out as a Zag, but its not like he really earned many minutes did he? Sure he hit a few big threes in his time, but he never really could handle the competition in D-1 College Basketball. It will be interesting to see if he can get on anywhere else in the states...Now there's rumors that Kelly Olynyk will be soon to follow, and now we got a bunch of whiny B!@#hes calling for Mark Few's head, i question their fanhood, their manhood, and their all around Patriotism with comments like that. Name one transfer who would have made the All-WCC team this year, let alone all-Big Sky. This opens minutes for far superior players.

I'm ready for the 2011-12 Season to start, the worst part about April-November is no college basketball, and I'm gonna do my best to keep some form of commentary alive during the dull-drums. LETS GO ZAGS!