Monthly Archives: January 2008

David Hoskins

Jan. 26, 20084:58 p.m.

He wants to come back next season. His surgery is scheduled for Feb. 1. He said the normal rehab time is six-to-eight months, but he said Saturday – with a smile – that he’d do it in four. He wasn’t sure about what the steps were he had to take to gain another year, if he’d meet the specific criteria (I told him he would, based on my dealings with the Big 12).

And then I asked him the important question:

“If you come back, could you convince the two young fellas to come back, too?”

He paused, thought about it, and said, “Well, maybe one of them.”

Interpret that as you will…

By J-Mart | Filed under Basketball | Comments (8)

My take, Iowa State (01/26)

Jan. 26, 20089:15 a.m.

I’m a big fan Wesley Johnson fan. And I think Craig Brackins is going to be a player. And Jiri Hubalek has played well against K-State in the past. And Rahshon Clark isn’t a bad fourth option.

OK, I’m done pumping up the Cyclones.

Clent Stewart hinted that we’ll see a lot of pressure and trapping from the Wildcats today, which makes sense since all of the guys I just mentioned are 6-foot-7 or taller and Iowa State’s primary ballhandler is a former walk-on. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but let me put it this way – if the roles were reversed, would you want James Franklin – a great kid, by the way – bringing the ball up the court? Didn’t think so.

Anyway, I like Kansas State. Not too big, but comfortably big. I like that Frank Martin seems to be pushing all of the right buttons so far, and these players genuinely like each other. I didn’t get that vibe at times last year. I’m also going to go out on a limb and say Mike Beasley “plays” two halves today, and he might post – and I’m borrowing this from Darius Miles when I covered him in the McDonald’s All-American Game in Boston – “PowerBall” numbers today. You know, big numbers across the board.

Undefeated going into Wednesday’s game against KU… I can’t wait.

PREDICTION: K-State 84, Iowa State 67

By J-Mart | Filed under Basketball | Comments (7)

Simi Kuli

Jan. 25, 20085:01 p.m.

Spoke Friday to El Camino (Calif.) Community College coach John Featherstone – great guy, by the way – about his star defensive end Simi (SEE-me) Kuli (KOO-lee).

Kuli decided to take his fifth visit, after all. As of Friday, he was either in or headed to Arizona, where several El Camino alums currently play. It’s the same story at Oregon State, another of the schools Simi is considering besides Kansas State.

The 6-foot-4, 270-pound Kuli is rated as the No. 1 junior college prospect in the country. He was named Mission Conference co-defensive player of the year. According to Featherstone, who has implored the defensive end to make a decision as soon as possible, a decision could be forthcoming Tuesday, once Kuli returns from Arizona and sits down with his parents for consultation.

“We know K-State is going after players to fill where they have holes and needs,” Featherstone said. “… But a big part of this is familiarity. A lot of times, this is the first time these guys are leaving home.”

Featherstone also said Bo Pelini has tried to get Nebraska back involved. Kuli originally committed to the Corn, but after Bill Callahan was dismissed, he re-opened his recruitment. But when Kuli took an official to LSU on Oct. 5, Pelini was the defensive coordinator and the two apparently got along well. The new NU coach has been in touch and Featherstone said “there is still a slim chance” Kuli could end up there.

The coach also said Kuli had a great time on his official visit last weekend to Manhattan, his fourth such trip. He was hosted by Moses Manu, an El Camino alum who “has enjoyed the experience,” according to Featherstone.

Two of Kuli’s El Camino teammates, defensive end Josh Berard and defensive lineman John Finau, are headed to K-State. Here’s what Featherstone had to say about them:

“Josh isn’t a big guy (6-foot-2, 220 pounds) but he has a good motor. He turned down Colorado to go to K-State. And Finau is a tough nut inside.”

By J-Mart | Filed under Football, Uncategorized | Comments (19)

Sean Kilpatrick

Jan. 25, 20084:28 p.m.

Spoke Friday with the 6-foot-5 shooting guard’s coach at White Plains (N.Y.) High, Spencer Mayfield.

He said a “couple” of Kansas State coaches have been in to see Kilpatrick, who is averaging 27 points. According to Rivals.com, K-State has offered Kilpatrick a scholarship.

“He’s a slasher,” Mayfield said. “He’s great in the open court. He can shoot it from deep. He can get up and down the floor.”

Mayfield mentioned St. John’s, Cincinnati, Virginia and Seton Hall in connection with Kilpatrick, who apparently is a big Red Storm fan.

“He’s a New Yorker, but he’s wide open,” Mayfield said. “He’s not opposed to going away for school.”

The coach said Kilpatrick still has work left to do to reach the required core grade-point average and necessary ACT score, although Kilpatrick is taking the latter test again Saturday.

So, here’s my theory:

I think Frank and Co. have to pursue kids who are going to sign late simply because they have no idea what their roster is going to look like next year. For certain, Blake Young and Clent Stewart are gone. That’s two available scholarships, but we also know that Jamar Samuels is getting one. So, that leaves one open for sure. We have to wait and see on David Hoskins, but it seems plausible he’ll try to come back. It’s a business decision for Mike Beasley, so there’s two scholarships. If Bill leaves, there’s three.That’s it, and that’s not even definite. Due to the uncertain nature of the roster, maybe the staff feels better chasing kids who plan to decide late anyway. They can afford to wait on kids who might be questionable in the classroom (like Ocala, Fla., guard Freddie Riley). Expect a junior college commitment or two as well. But it’s probably not going to be an expansive class.

By J-Mart | Filed under Basketball | Comments (6)

Housekeeping, 01/25

Jan. 25, 200812:13 p.m.

A couple of little things:

1. I’m going to be doing another live chat with the Lawrence Journal-World on Tuesday, some time in the afternoon in advance of Wednesday’s big game. Hopefully all of you will clear some time and make your presence felt.

2. My efforts to glean precious 2008 basketball recruiting info are coming up dry. More phone calls have been made, and I’m waiting for responses.

3. “I Got Five On It” is coming back strong – hopefully. I’m going to try to get Tim Weiser – keep your fingers crossed on that one – and yes, Curtis Malone. Thing is, I need questions for both. I’ve talked to both men, and I don’t have anything urgent – at least not until signing day in Weiser’s case – to ask. So, if you want these done, come with the questions.

4. The good folks at nfldraftscout.com have provided a little information about Jordy Nelson down at the Senior Bowl. He is currently listed as a rising third- or fourth-rounder, and this was yesterday’s update: “Eventually teams are going to run out of excuses not to like this guy. He’s not quick in and out of breaks but his big body and solid hands are hard to ignore. Nelson also beat corners deep this week, as he did occasionally at KSU, despite not having elite speed. That was an eye opener for scouts and team execs who had not seen him much this season. One of the key guys to watch at Indy next month.” I’ve said it before, but I’ll repeat it now – if Jordy runs a sub-4.5 at the Combine, he’s a second-round selection at worst.

By J-Mart | Filed under Uncategorized | Comments (12)

Mama Sayz (01/24)

Jan. 24, 20089:54 a.m.

She’s back, and she’s calling out her readers – kind of. Mrs. Smith is complicated. Anyway, read for yourself in this week’s edition:

HELLOOOO?

Is anybody out there? I mean, seriously, does anybody really read this besides my sister? The reason I ask is because I’ve talked to quite a few people lately, most recently a reporter, Bill, from the Kansas City Star, and some of the stuff that was asked of me would have clearly been “self-answered” if “Mama Sayz” was really being read — not that I mind talking at all because of this “gift for gab” that I possess. I really enjoy conversing with others that don’t live under the same roof as me. Hey J-Mart, can I make a suggestion? (J-MART NOTE: Of course.) What about adding a page counter? That way you could keep track of what makes for interesting reading (or not).  Remember it’s just a suggestion…  (J-MART NOTE: Duly noted, but just so everyone knows, “Mama Sayz” is routinely one of the top three read blog entries every day at Kansas.com.)

Anyway, how about that Texas A&M game? Bramlage was so LOUD that I could hardly hear Malik and Tiffany asking for popcorn/pretzel money. It was so amazing to see the excitement from everyone there. The marching band was just as fun to watch as the girls from GTM. My co-worker, Lucy, told me they would be fantastic, and from now on, the top thing on Tiffany’s to- do list is to learn how to do a no-handed somersault, play the drums and own a shiny green suit like the little boy she keeps talking about.

Over the last couple of weeks, many different articles have come out regarding Lil’ Mike that show his “playful” side. Although they are VERY entertaining and somewhat enlightening on how or what he thinks while off the court, I think some people (very few, I hope) might get the idea that he doesn’t take life seriously. Well, first let’s not forget that he just turned 19 and the majority of his “pranks” were done during his very youthful years.  Don’t get me wrong, I’m not making excuses for him and/or his behavior, but fair is fair, right? And really, looking back on most of his pranks, I just shake my head and sort of chuckle to myself… he’s like a modern day Dennis the Menace! (J-MART NOTE: I think he’s a better rebounder, though.)

But on a serious note, I would like to touch on one of the comments left this week.

FROM: Will
WHEN: Jan. 22, 2008

Brian Gates at GoPowercat.com posted this story. He said to pass it along to anyone and I thought we should pass it on to Mama.

“I wish there was a way to share this story with more people. This will get it out to a lot of K-State people, I realize, but feel free to pass this along to anyone you want to.

Blade Winter, an 11-year old boy from Clifton, is battling leukemia. He was at the women’s game on Saturday night and had made his way down by his cousin and was sitting on the aisle beside his cousin so he could see the Marching Cobras a little better.

One of the Bramlage ushers made their way down to him and told him he would not be able to stay sitting on the aisle like that.

That is when Michael Beasley told the usher that Blade was with him. He had Blade come sit down by him in the chairs on the floor. So, Blade sat there with Michael, and his friends (Jamar Samuels, Dominique Sutton and James Franklin).

His mother told me that Blade has battled chemotherapy for nearly six of the last eight years of his life. That fact (and probably the existing leukemia) wasn’t known by Michael when he invited Blade down to the seats with them.

Michael also gave Blade an autographed t-shirt while he was sitting there with them.

I know we all watch them on the court and are thrilled with their play out there, but these guys are truly great representatives of Kansas State University.”

First, as a mother I always wonder how my perfect little angels behave when they are not in my presence so this story warms my heart two times over. Here’s why… Sometimes when I want Lil’ Mike, or any of my kids, to do something out of the kindness of their hearts it doesn’t always go over so well – it’s as if I’m giving them another chore or something. So to actually take the time out and be a part of the women’s game by signing autographs for the various fans without being told to shows me that he not only listens to me but he actually hears me as well. He actually loves to see the smiles on little kids’ faces (young and old) when they meet him. Anything to bring a genuine smile to someone’s face is a satisfying feeling. Because he didn’t know the condition of the young man Blade makes me even more proud. You see, my sister Mona lost her only son, Stevon, to a very rare form of cancer almost three years ago. He was just as much one of my children as my children are to Mona. Our kids were inseparable up until this very sad event in our lives. When she and I read this comment we couldn’t help but think of him. I really pray for strength for this young man and his family.

OK, I know I promised to have this done by Tuesday but for some reason I have been extremely busy. (J-MART NOTE: Deadlines are a pain in the butt.) So here it is, 11:30  p.m. after the Colorado game and I’m trying to wrap this up. That game was good to watch and I was at home cheering the guys on at the top of my lungs. I was so worried the change in altitude was going to affect some or all of them but we pulled through again.

Go Cats!

More questions and more answers…

FROM: Schitz
WHEN: Jan. 19, 2008

Hey Mama,
Just wanted to tell you that you looked good tonight. That might be the coolest jersey I have ever seen.

Hey Schitz,

Thanks for the compliment. For those who didn’t see my jersey, it has all of the players’ numbers on it to represent the whole team. (J-MART NOTE: A picture would be nice.) I have said from the beginning that this is not a one-man show and I really believe that the boys are showing that in the way they have been playing.

FROM: Steve Dave
WHEN: Jan. 19, 2008

Hey Mom, any chance you make the road game in Lincoln? I have to live in Nebraska and I need a date for the game! If you are heading this way anyway, let me know and I will take you out for a Juice Stop and game!

Steve Dave,

When I travel, I travel deep! Me, Calvin and my roommates usually load up the SUV and and hit the road together. If you have any recommendations on kid-friendly restaurants, that is always helpful.

FROM: VirginiaKid
WHEN: Jan. 19, 2008

Hey Mama,
Thanks for sharing your time and thoughts with us. Will you continue to do so when Lil’ Mike goes to the NBA? As part of the K-State family, I’m sure we would love to continue to follow his progress as a person and not just what we see on ESPN. Also, y’all are from D.C. — what area of D.C.? Did Lil’ Mike ever play in the Tidewater area of Virginia? B-Cool.

Hey V-Kid,


Whenever the time comes for us to move, I would like to stay in touch with the Wildcat fans in one way or another. K-State will always be a part of our family for as long as we live. So I guess I will be here as long as I am wanted. Oh, and we are from P.G. County, Md., and that is right outside of D.C.

FROM: PowerCatScott
WHEN: Jan. 20, 2008

Thanks again for another great blog. Just a cautionary word, “ChickenHawk” is a derogatory term used for fans of that OTHER team in Lawrence, so you might want to be careful calling yourself one of those, someone might get the wrong idea.

In all seriousness, I love this blog and I love that you’ve taken such an active role in the K-State community. A lot of time families of players, especially elite players, exist for no other reason than to promote themselves and their children, but your level-headedness and genuine passion for K-State is refreshing. Now, about next year…

Scott,

I apologize for the slip of the tongue. I’ll try to choose my words a little more carefully.

I have a very big day ahead of me and I must go for now. Before I leave, I would like to say: Way to go, Bill, for another Rookie of the Week performance!

By J-Mart | Filed under Mama Sayz | Comments (22)

Post-mortem: CU (01/23)

Jan. 24, 20089:26 a.m.

This was the type of game Kansas State might have lost in the past. That, to me, was the best thing gained from the victory in Boulder. We keep seeing Frank Martin sprinkle in new things, i.e. hard traps on the sideline, and everything seems to be working. I think the notion that he can’t coach can be dispelled. As for personnel, this Beasley kid isn’t bad. Same for Bill Walker, who seems to be providing the mental edge for this team. Darren Kent played well. Andre Gilbert was active in the first half. And Blake Young continues to play hard. The growing pains continue for Jake Pullen, who is brilliant one moment and frustrating the next. Still waiting for more from Dominique Sutton, but Wednesday wasn’t the kind of game where he’d shine. Still, it was a great win, and I liked Martin’s reaction afterwards. He’s not satisfied. The ultimate goal isn’t to win three Big 12 games. There is much more work left to do. Final thought: one Colorado reporter wished Martin “good luck” in March after the questions had ended. Wish you could have seen the bemused look on his face. His point? K-State hasn’t done anything yet. But this is an encouraging start.

By J-Mart | Filed under Basketball | Comments (3)

My take, Colorado (1/23)

Jan. 23, 20082:18 p.m.

I usually shy away from giving predictions, but hey, it’s a blog. You have to take some chances. So, from now until the end of the season, I’m going to give a quick piece of analysis – nothing less than 25 words but nothing more than 50 – that will sum up my thoughts of the upcoming game. I will also provide a score, which I hope won’t be used against me down the road (yeah, right).

But before I get to that, I have a quick story to pass on. When I was in Boston last week, I went to the Sports Depot, a decent sports bar in nearby Allston, to watch KU against Missouri. Sure, it’s a rivalry and all, but I wasn’t prepared for at least 50 Jayhawk fans in attendance, sporting their “Muck Fizzou” shirts. Predictably, the non-KU folks at the bar began cheering for the Tigers, if only in spite. Anyway, I asked the organizer of the event, some woman in her 30s, if this was normal. No, she said, but they had gotten together earlier for the game against BC and there were a few more scheduled for the rest of the season.

“K-State, Jan. 30?” I asked.

“No, I don’t think so,” she responded.

Maybe it’s me, but I took that to mean she didn’t think it would be much of a game, so why bother. Personally, I disagree – although I thought differently less than two weeks ago.

But I digress. The morale is, this K-State team still isn’t getting the respect it should. Maybe that changes next week.

As for tonight, I like K-State. Not big – maybe by 10 points. The Wildcats probably won’t score a whole lot, maybe 70 points, but the Buffaloes are somewhat offensively-challenged so it shouldn’t matter. Then again, CU uses a four-guard lineup, and that may put more pressure on the Wildcats. But I doubt it. Expect a big game from Mike Beasley – way to go out on a limb, I know – but also Jake Pullen, who continues to come on.

PREDICTION: K-State 72, CU 63

Your thoughts?

By J-Mart | Filed under Uncategorized | Comments (20)

Mama Sayz

Jan. 19, 20081:31 p.m.

This is my bad for posting this so late. I was away all week without Internet access, believe it or not. Anyway, here it is, the latest from our beloved Mrs. Smith.

Driving to Norman was well worth it after watching the game against the Sooners. The guys on both teams played with real confidence and for once I was silent throughout the whole game. The lead switched so many times that I lost track, and neither of the teams could get a strong lead. But that’s what made the game both good and bad. If I had the fingernails that I used to have, I would have bitten them off by the end of the game. It was as if I was in a coma — I could not muster any emotions until the last 2.3 seconds of the game and we all know the outcome… so I really don’t have to go any further. What a relief that last basket was. On the other hand, Blake Griffin is a very good player and I’m sure he will have a great career. I wish him the speediest recovery for his injury in Monday’s game.

Well, since our last meeting, the Sports Illustrated article came out and I was surprisingly pleased by the outcome. It basically touched on Lil’ Mike’s basketball road which landed him at Kansas State University. I was told that if it weren’t for the BCS national championship game, he would have been on the cover. But after finding out about the “SI Jinx,” I’m glad that LSU made front and center because we don’t need anything but positive energy coming our way, right?

Lil’ Mike made his “live” debut on ESPN this week and I must say he looked and sounded very poised. I’ve already told him that if he pulls any pranks on me like he indicated in the interview that I would make him regret it — one way or the other!

After all of the holiday travels and my countless runs to and from the Kansas City Airport, I finally have all of my roommates back at home. To be honest, even though they occupy the majority of my waken moments and drive me absolutely bonkers with their many demands and although I say that I need a break and can’t wait for them to leave, I really do miss them being in the house. It’s just not the same when it’s empty. Now I feel complete again…

Well, since there were no real noteworthy events going on in the house this would be a great opportunity to tackle some of the questions that were asked, so here goes:

FROM: ksu777
WHEN: Jan. 11, 2008

If Lil’ Mike, Billy W., J-Mart, Frank, Dalonte, Stan Weber, that hot classy cat, Mama Beas, and Hoskins are all back at KSU next year…I will literally crap in my pants with excitement… Three craps if I can get all the KSU games on TV in KC. Four craps if that ‘2 Unlimited’ song from 1995 is still played at Bramlage. I almost crapped right then just thinking about (it).

KSU777,
My sister, Mona, has a very strange since of humor and after reading your comment she called me while laughing so hard that I could hardly recognize who was on the other end of the phone. So thumbs up for you all the way from the East Coast!

FROM: Tim Archer
WHEN: Jan. 11, 2008

Momma,
Great blog as usual. I felt bad after the game when I asked you if Mike didn’t get anything for Christmas. I re-read the interview and it said that he didn’t ask for anything but got a Mac Book. I didn’t want to get him in trouble. Thanks for being so friendly at the games. I enjoy talking with you and your family as well. Thank Mike and the rest of the guys for signing all the autographs. My kids, and the kids I bring them back for, love them. I gave some to our Boys and Girls Club this week. Have a safe trip to OK and hope to see you guys again at a game (if I can get more tickets.)

Tim,
Don’t worry about it. After reading the article myself, I figured as much. He’s really enjoying his new toy and he had a great birthday. It’s always good to talk to you after the games and I hope you make it to more games during conference play.

FROM: superksufan
WHEN: Jan. 11, 2008

Thanks Momma,
I really enjoy your blogs.

Since you have the inside scoop, I would like to pick your brain….

We all pretty much know that (David) Hoskins is out this year. Have you heard how he is doing with all of this and if he can, will he come back next year? How do Mike and the rest of the team feel about Hoskins not being able to play with them this year?

SuperK,
Believe it or not, we don’t talk basketball all day everyday. To be honest, whenever the kids come over it’s usually to get away from all of that. They don’t ask me what goes on at the office and I don’t ask questions about what goes on in the locker room. It’s pretty much family time therefore I know about as much as you do when it comes to David.

FROM: ksu777
WHEN: January 11, 2008

Mama Beas,
What is your favorite restaurant in Manhattan? Have you tried the delicious and nutritious Pizza Shuttle?

KSU777,
Is this your 2nd question? I’m going to answer it because it’s been asked quite a few times. I like to go places that are entertaining for the kids as well and we are “chicken hawks.” Although, we have frequented many restaurants here in Manhattan, my absolute favorite is BWW in Aggieville! I get to watch sports and defeat the kids (and a few other patrons) in trivia while eating my favorite food. Although I have eaten the “Blazin’ Wings,” my absolute favorite is “Mango Habanera.”

FROM: OlatheCat
WHEN: January 11, 2008

What’s the fascination with Sponge Bob? My kids love it, too. I’ve tried to watch it but I usually get bored after a couple of minutes!

O-Cat,
Sponge Bob is either on or off, hot or cold. In other words, either you love him or you hate him. If only all of life’s problems could be so simple. When my younger brother was coming up, it was Bart Simpson, and he and Lil’ Mike have the same type of playful personalities.

FROM: AuditCat
WHEN: January 11, 2008

Mama,
Thank you for taking the time and effort to give all of us a little peek into your day-to-day life of your family and of the team. I really like how you include so many of the guys in your comments and not just your amazing son. Thanks to J-Mart as well. J-Mart does such a wonderful job of covering K-State sports for us!

My family will be reading and watching from Rio Rancho, N.M. Go K-State!

AuditCat,
I include the other guys because they are a part of this whole thing. This is a TEAM! They are just as important to me and to the success of this program as my “amazing son,” as you put it. Thanks so much for even wanting to know what goes on behind the scenes of that crazy son of mine.

FROM: Bookie Pimp
WHEN: Jan. 14, 2008

Hey Mama!!

Your blog is truly appreciated and after driving up from Dallas to Norman for the OU game, we really enjoyed watching how much fun you and your kids were having after the game interacting with the fans.

What are the chances of you helping one of the administrators from KSUfans.com get a couple of courtside seats with the rest of the K-State “VIP’s” at the Baylor game in Waco?

Keep up the good work. We love your blog!!

Hey Bookie,
Interacting with the fans after the game is almost as much fun being at the game. One thing I’ve noticed is that when Wildcat fans come out, they come DEEP! I’ve never seen such a love for a program before and this is a group of people that I will NEVER forget.

Well, gang, I’m going to call it quits for now and I promise to be back on track next week by having this ready by Tuesday…scout’s honor!

By J-Mart | Filed under Mama Sayz | Comments (12)

Spoke with Chris Harper…

Jan. 12, 20086:31 p.m.

At one point, Northwest quarterback Chris Harper entertained thoughts of playing basketball in addition to football in college. He couldn’t be bothered with the Wildcats’ game against the Sooners – he was watching Brett Favre dice up the Seattle Seahawks in the snow Saturday (say that three times quickly). Anyway, the one-time K-State commit is still up in the air. He said he hasn’t heard from any of the coaches in Manhattan – it is the dead period, after all. But that hasn’t stopped Oregon from scheduling a visit to Wichita on the first day the dead period is lifted, nor has it deterred Illinois from making plans for Tuesday. “They’re still writing letters,” Harper said. Aside from the Ducks, Illini and the Wildcats, Harper is still keen on Missouri. He’s still adamant about playing quarterback – and most of the coaches recruiting him are as excited about the possibility as he is, he says. “They said some of the other prospects are what they are, but with me, this is more potential, more room for growth,” Harper said. When he makes his decision this time, though, he probably won’t make a public declaration until or close to Signing Day. (J-Mart note: This also appears in tomorrow’s Eagle)

By J-Mart | Filed under Football | Comments (15)