Mason Faulkner has been released from NKU

[gametime]

Wow. That is a lot more transfers than I ever would have guessed. With that many transfers happening Is there really a problem with the transfer rule?

 

The primary problem is allowing every team 13 scholarships. Many coaches feel the need to fill at least 12, and the reality is once you get to 8 or 9 you are going to have everyone below them wanting a bigger role. Those bottom of the roster spots are often filled in the spring, and used on players that are typically a step below at each level just to keep numbers up...

[98NCCalum]

Williams was not a good fit at NKU from the start. He works hard and is a good rebounder, but he is a 6'5" post player. He hasn't developed any kind of perimeter game and is guarded accordingly by opponents. He is good driving and slashing to the basket but that disappears when the defense sags so much on him.

 

I like Carson but, in my opinion, he's going to be a role player at this level.

 

I think Mason would have been successful but his role wasn't what he wanted it to be. As noted above, he comes from a small program where he took 40 shots a game and was a prolific scorer. That's not what NKU needs from him.

 

If the players are not happy with their role, it can be a problem having them around. I think they'll miss Mason and it leaves them short at PG, but I don't think either leaving will create a problem they won't overcome with the incoming players.

This is the best post i've read about any of this. The guys who have left were asked what they wanted their role to be. Winning wasn't a part of either of their answers. I hope they find what they're looking for at wherever they end up.

[Jack of all Trades]

So what is the "real" story behind the transfers and are these two the only ones that will be leaving? Curious to know if there are any irons in the fire as to possible transfers to the program.

[sportsfan41]

Having attended every home game, and watched most others, I can assure you that neither showed much, if any, improvements this season from their freshman season.

 

Where they're from should be irrelevant. You go after and get the best players you can and the ones that fit your system and style best. If that means recruiting over guys, then so be it.

 

Both of these guys were set to be juniors. If juniors are worried about freshman coming in and taking their spots, well, that's not a good sign.

 

Agree on everything you said especially the last part. Better now than mid season.

[98NCCalum]

So what is the "real" story behind the transfers and are these two the only ones that will be leaving? Curious to know if there are any irons in the fire as to possible transfers to the program.

The transfers are not done.

[TAC]

So how does Faulkner and Williams find another team? It’s not like they go back to the AAU circuit. Do coaches just constantly review verbal commits or do the players have to start sending resumes?

[TAC]

The transfers are not done.

 

Who else has not had their scholarship renewed?

[MJAlltheWay24]

This is the best post i've read about any of this. The guys who have left were asked what they wanted their role to be. Winning wasn't a part of either of their answers.

 

Who else has not had their scholarship renewed?

 

So are we implying that it wasn't the players choice to transfer but they were forced out? That question is especially for @TAC.

[HoopJunkie]

So how does Faulkner and Williams find another team? It’s not like they go back to the AAU circuit. Do coaches just constantly review verbal commits or do the players have to start sending resumes?

 

 

2 years of D1 college basketball. Coaches know who they are.

[mcpapa]

Lots of times these guys land at a high NAIA-type program where they can really shine. Georgetown College comes to mind.

[TAC]

So are we implying that it wasn't the players choice to transfer but they were forced out? That question is especially for @TAC.

 

 

Absolutely no idea on the situation for either kid. @Bench may have some inside scoop. I’d be shocked that a kid who has a full ride and has been on the team for 2 years would want to just leave for more playing time. Not like the NBA is in the future for either one. A degree should be a top priority and they are halfway home.

[outofbounds]

Having attended every home game, and watched most others, I can assure you that neither showed much, if any, improvements this season from their freshman season.

 

Shouldn't some of the responsiblity for that be on Brannen and his staff? He and his staff knew what they were getting when they recruited them (or should have known). Jay Wright is receiving all kinds of praise right now for the development of his players. Faulkner and Williams stats don't show any significant decline from their freshman seasons. So I don't buy the argument their attitudes were the problem. Think the blame for them leaving goes both ways. It is part of Brannen's job to develop his players.

[MJAlltheWay24]

Think the blame for them leaving goes both ways. It is part of Brannen's job to develop his players.

 

I don't think there should be blame placed any anyone.

[UKMustangFan]

I don't think there should be blame placed any anyone.

 

This. I don't know why we're trying to place blame on anyone. It didn't work out. They're moving on to situations that are better for them and NKU is putting together a roster that better suits their style and system.

[4 Quarters]

So how does Faulkner and Williams find another team? It’s not like they go back to the AAU circuit. Do coaches just constantly review verbal commits or do the players have to start sending resumes?

The coaches read BGP.