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Not saying Nojel can be Dennis Rodman as a player, but ....

This is the second time I've seen this comparison to Dennis Rodman. Its ridiculous. Dennis Rodman led the NBA in rebounding 7 times and one year averaged almost 19 rebounds a game. He was 2 time NBA defensive player of the year.

Last year Nojel was 16th among Big Ten guards (46th overall) in rebounding. Pat Spencer form Northwestern (ex Lacrosse Player) and Xavior Simpson averaged more rebounds than Nojel. Nojel has never been selected as Big Ten defensive player of the year let alone been considered for a national award. Nojel averaged 4.9 points a game and 4 rebounds last year.

I'm going to start a thread that says:
Not saying Luce can be John Stockton as a player, but ....
and then we can all discuss its merits.

I’m not sure which I enjoy more, your literalism or hyperbole. Thank you for sharing both, it made me smile on a Friday afternoon.
 
And now we have the biggest over reaction yet. Some of you really seem to hate Nojel and I don't get it. I mean you are treating him like he was an IU player. Let that sink in for a while.
His post was filled with facts. Yours was just an emotional rant because you didn't like what he said. Maybe instead of throwing out baseless accusations like so many here do, you could respond with facts to show him why the Rodman comparison was actually a good one? Because frankly I think it's a horrible comparison as well.
 
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And now we have the biggest over reaction yet. Some of you really seem to hate Nojel and I don't get it. I mean you are treating him like he was an IU player. Let that sink in for a while.
Don’t assume that everyone that posts on here all the time is a Boilermaker. With a free board and even the pay site people will hide behind a keyboard. I and many have been hard on Nojel on here at times, but still will cheer and support him. He’s a Boilermaker and we all should. We all know he needs to fix his shooting mechanics. If this is done he will have the confidence that he has never had in college. Based on what his mom has said on here he is getting with a shooting coach. A player can change their shooting motion , baseball swing , or Throwing motion in an offseason. Getting with the right person is number 1. Number 2 is continually working that different motion for thousands of reps. His mom has said he has worked as much as possible now and plans to do it all this offseason. I believe it. I for one am looking forward to seeing his transformation next year. I think he can be the leader. Players always follow the guys that worked the hardest on the team and lead by example.

Good Ole C Martin became a good shooter in one offseason back in 1993. Nojel can do it. Have faith and support the guys. Some of you that rip Nojel constantly I feel were nicer to Haarms on his way out the door. You know the kid who quit on the Boilermakers.
 
[QUOTE="SCBoiler1, post: 2588290, member: 13857.Nojel averaged 4.9 points a game and 4 rebounds last year.[/QUOTE]


Wow; a couple of years ago at IU James Blackmon Jr. and Rob Johnson averaged 4.8 and 4.4 rebounds per game respectively.

Not say either of those guys could potentially be the next Dennis Rodman either, but I’m reading this thread and starting to see the potential! ;)
 
The next time Blackmon plays good defense will be the first. Although that’s kind of a running theme down there isn’t it?
 
The next time Blackmon plays good defense will be the first. Although that’s kind of a running theme down there isn’t it?
It's been said by a famous IU alum that James Blackmon "can't guard a chair." But he could rebound, apparently! lol
 
His post was filled with facts. Yours was just an emotional rant because you didn't like what he said. Maybe instead of throwing out baseless accusations like so many here do, you could respond with facts to show him why the Rodman comparison was actually a good one? Because frankly I think it's a horrible comparison as well.

I’ll admit that the comparison requires looking beyond what is to what could be. If one chooses to compare a 20 year old college student to a 5x NBA champion base on accomplishments the comparison would fail to resonate.

I’ll also say that the comparison did not state or imply that Nojel can be as good as Rodman, only that if he followed his lead in terms of playing style, intensity and doing all the dirty work that a team needs, he could have a long professional career (whether that’s in the NBA or elsewhere).

As far as the direct comparison, they are very similar physically. Both are 6’7”, long, lean and muscular. Nojel reminds me of Dennis on defense the in the way that he not only locks down the other player but can be a constant pest and really get in their head.

Nojel is not in the same world as Dennis as a rebounder, I’m not sure that anyone is, but it’s interesting to hear Dennis talk about how he taught himself to be a great rebounder. If you haven’t seen the episode I highly recommend it.
 
I’ll admit that the comparison requires looking beyond what is to what could be. If one chooses to compare a 20 year old college student to a 5x NBA champion base on accomplishments the comparison would fail to resonate.

I’ll also say that the comparison did not state or imply that Nojel can be as good as Rodman, only that if he followed his lead in terms of playing style, intensity and doing all the dirty work that a team needs, he could have a long professional career (whether that’s in the NBA or elsewhere).

As far as the direct comparison, they are very similar physically. Both are 6’7”, long, lean and muscular. Nojel reminds me of Dennis on defense the in the way that he not only locks down the other player but can be a constant pest and really get in their head.

Nojel is not in the same world as Dennis as a rebounder, I’m not sure that anyone is, but it’s interesting to hear Dennis talk about how he taught himself to be a great rebounder. If you haven’t seen the episode I highly recommend it.
I don’t think IMO that my son compares to Rodman but what I would say what nojel does is do the little things not much scoring that can help a team win games. He hustles defend rebound bring energy motor great bench teammate no off the court issues has winning ways that also can score those things is what Rodman did. He was an elite rebounder and nojel could become that kinda player that can put his ego aside and do what it takes on both ends to help a team win games. Can’t get enough of those types players willing to do the dirty work and that’s what Rodman did and he was cool with that and it got Rodman championships. The past is the past nojel now looking at his future bcuz nothing is promised tomorrow
 
I don’t think IMO that my son compares to Rodman but what I would say what nojel does is do the little things not much scoring that can help a team win games. He hustles defend rebound bring energy motor great bench teammate no off the court issues has winning ways that also can score those things is what Rodman did. He was an elite rebounder and nojel could become that kinda player that can put his ego aside and do what it takes on both ends to help a team win games. Can’t get enough of those types players willing to do the dirty work and that’s what Rodman did and he was cool with that and it got Rodman championships. The past is the past nojel now looking at his future bcuz nothing is promised tomorrow

Yup, my point exactly.
 
Nojel biggest problem has been confidence lack there of especially offensively. When he’s home he shoots the ball just fine 3 pointers and all it’s all mental. He scored last season had a few games this season he scored he shot the ball albeit midrange shots but he did shoot the ball more this season. Offensively he’s not challenged he worked all summer on his shooting played in a few Pro AM games in Chicago was scoring on all levels I cannot tell u why when he get to school playing in games it suddenly changes. Could be he he didn’t keep up with the same work ethic he did at home as he should of did at school can’t explain it. But I it’s this time off and no basketball to play he realizes that he cannot waist opportunities so he has been totally focused on getting his mind body and game right. He has a guy who will be working specifically on connecting with others him mentally and he will help him why he help prepare Tyler herro during his predraft workouts to get him ready. Shooting specialists and he’s been knowing my son since a kid so he getting to help he needs to help him gain back his confidence in himself and helping him fix the mechanics on his shot like starting over in a sense but getting his muscle memory back to doing what it was did b4. He will work grind non stop till he get it right.
You keep saying confidence Treed but again I'll tell you this I think it's anxiety!!! For people that's never had it you have NO idea how tough it is to deal with!Read the article about Kyle Guy he had it 2 years ago and he needed a lot of help and therapy.Worked out pretty good for him the next year didn't it?I think you need to try that!I'm obviously not a doctor but have battled anxiety in certain parts of my life all my life if that makes sense!
 
I watched the last dance and that episode with Rodman I thought of my son and if any of you watched last years draft a Lot of guys were drafted bcuz of their shooting and defense. Marcus smart pay Beverly PJ tucker and some others got contracts bcuz of their defense. Yes they all can knock down 3s and score but their defense is what got them paid including draymond green. Character matters no off the court issues matters he has the ability to help a team if given an opportunity and if u look at those players all of them except green are smaller than him and they getting older. 2 rookie players come to mind if u watched them this season from Boston and 76ers both plays that role why both got drafted yes both can hit an open 3 but both got drafted bcuz of there character traits and ability to defend and rebound. Nojel 6”7 at 230 pounds with a 6”9 wingspan quick athletic quick hands with lateral quickness at that size that can guard 1/4 position bcuz he has the size and strength to so so. He can handle and pass the ball great vision smart great locker room guy he brings a lot to a team that does translate to the NBA. More spacing will be good for him can facilitate more in more spacing. Game is faster in the nba he plays better when he can play faster. His shot and offense with more confidence will come back but it’s not out the realm of possibilities that my son if given an opportunity he could be an asset to a team a few minutes a game. He works hard plays hard has the work ethic to get better and he will put in the work to fix a part of his game if he does that he has a chance.
Treed, as a coach, if I'm honest with you as I've always been, this is a weird year for someone trying to move to the next level unless they're the absolute cream of the crop. GM's aren't going to be taking flyers, no risks, no projects. There is No real evaluation, no face to face meetings, lots of unknowns which if it's a regular year, can be determined by tryout's, by talking to the prospect in person. While I love what Nojel brings to the court, I really think he needs for this year to be his best to reach his ultimate goal. Nice young man, polite, getting his grades...never a problem are all great attributes the pro's look for, and he has that.

I'm hoping he stays this year, and has a great final season before moving on up. Leaving this year, in my opinion, would be a mistake.
 
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Everything he has done at Purdue obviously was nothing his impact meant nothing I sure hope the new players and returning players give u everything he could not. It’s amazing the criticism my son gets like he was a failure like he lost all the games by himself but hey can not dispute the numbers but life will go on And nojel will be ok. His future is bright he home he happy nothing else matters but he preparing for his future.

So you sound like he's done with Purdue and is moving on regardless. I hope that's not the case.
 
I think Gillis, Nojel, and Tre Williams are going to form a terrific scoring core inside the 3-pt line this next year. All three are good passers and will befuddle other teams once the ball goes inside. I think we will see some incredible passing in the paint. With some improved shooting from the outside by Hunter, IT, and Sasha, the inside game is going to be electrifying. Nojel will showcase his real skills as a passer and play maker.
 
Treed, as a coach, if I'm honest with you as I've always been, this is a weird year for someone trying to move to the next level unless they're the absolute cream of the crop. GM's aren't going to be taking flyers, no risks, no projects. There is No real evaluation, no face to face meetings, lots of unknowns which if it's a regular year, can be determined by tryout's, by talking to the prospect in person. While I love what Nojel brings to the court, I really think he needs for this year to be his best to reach his ultimate goal. Nice young man, polite, getting his grades...never a problem are all great attributes the pro's look for, and he has that.

I'm hoping he stays this year, and has a great final season before moving on up. Leaving this year, in my opinion, would be a mistake.
I respect your honest opinion I’m aware of what’s going on he just going thru the process.
 
I get what u saying and what u saying was definitely something he was dealing with that ultimately hammered him offensively for the 1st half of the season. I sought help for him from someone who went thru it to and he was of much help too and helping him with other help to get thru this. It’s not a joke it’s something as a parent that could leave u helpless as a parent when ur child going thru something like that and u don’t no what to do to help him. He felt responsible for how this season went but he at the time didn’t no what he was going thru until he started to open up and taking about what he was going thru. He was embarrassed ashamed yet confused and I assured him we all go thru life ups and downs Hard times and it effects us all differently. Being home he found himself agin he’s happy having fun kicked in grinding hard on his mind body and game. He not taking nothing for granted life is to short he now living his life to the fullest. As a parent my job is to uplift encourage support love tru all I can to help him thru crises he may go thru and he went thru it and he got thru it and today seeing him happy is my only concern. I love my son he’s my everything my only child his happiness is all I care about today.
Yep Treed same for me I was embarrassed too.Hard for me to admit because I was always a hard nosed guy like I'm sure Nojel is.Stay with the therapy and I hope Nojel can work through it a have a helluva career where ever!!
 
Yep Treed same for me I was embarrassed too.Hard for me to admit because I was always a hard nosed guy like I'm sure Nojel is.Stay with the therapy and I hope Nojel can work through it a have a helluva career where ever!!
I'm very glad you worked though everything.

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You keep saying confidence Treed but again I'll tell you this I think it's anxiety!!! For people that's never had it you have NO idea how tough it is to deal with!Read the article about Kyle Guy he had it 2 years ago and he needed a lot of help and therapy.Worked out pretty good for him the next year didn't it?I think you need to try that!I'm obviously not a doctor but have battled anxiety in certain parts of my life all my life if that makes sense!
Anxiety is a crazy thing. The Cubs pitcher that can throw a 95 mph fastball across the plate, but can’t toss it to first base? Weird!
 
He got away he found new faith he has all the right people around him even more so to continually motivate encourage support him to try to make sure this don’t return. With this time off tho has definitely helped him no distractions nothing but time to find inner peach while working on his game he love. I truly believe in time we can heal this time off has been a great healing for him.
I hope his team mates and his coach have been a strong supporter for him. These kids have played together and rooted for each other for three years now. I suspect they will be a good support system.
 
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I don’t get it. Some not happy with his play this season imagine how he feels with himself. He felt he let his teammates down this season not able to perform yet no one understands he had stuff going on in his head with off the court stuff going on and it most certainly effected his offensive play. A blind person could see he wasn’t mentally there he tried to play thru the anxieties he was dealing with by masquerading everything he was going thru. But as it stands now season is over yet some continue to complain unreal. I tell u this his happiness is only thing that matters to me nothing else he’s a human being he not perfect yet reading some of this stuff he deserves more and he’ll get what he needs moving forward. Now he’s concentrating on getting ready for whatever this draft process brings. I no it’s not the majority but the minority really showing their true feelings and it’s unfortunate bcuz he really is a good person great teammate and good player that gave his all every time he stepped in the court.

i would be embarrassed if my mom was on a message board discussing my personal mental issues.
 
i would be embarrassed if my mom was on a message board discussing my personal mental issues.
She has gone on record saying she doesn't tell him anything she posts here. I'm pretty sure there's a good reason for that. What college kid would want their parent telling strangers about their personal problems? Especially a visible kid like as D1 basketball player. The whole thing is strange. I'll stay away from anything else, or this thread will get locked too.
 
Sir having anxiety issues like all of us have maybe one time in our lives was quite evident what my son was dealing with. I’ve been on record sense freshman and sophomore year saying he had confidence issues I just didn’t have a name for it until I did some research on it. They have been stories about players at all level of kids and adults dealing with issues like this. Kid from Ohio state talked about it Kevin love talked about it and quite frankly my son was talking about it in some interviews he had about his confidence issues he just didn’t have a name for it. Many players and athletes have dealt with the pressures of trying to be the best at what they do and my son had his pressures too. You may be right it’s wrong but I’ve been on record talking about this long ago.
It sounds like his teammates and the coaching staff have been supportive toward him. I think if your friends and teammates help you, you can get through these problems a little easier.
 
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She has gone on record saying she doesn't tell him anything she posts here. I'm pretty sure there's a good reason for that. What college kid would want their parent telling strangers about their personal problems? Especially a visible kid like as D1 basketball player. The whole thing is strange. I'll stay away from anything else, or this thread will get locked too.

Agreed, but it's still a public forum that anyone may read.

I've always been of the personal belief that a message board like this exists for people to talk about all sorts of things - and they are critical at times and positive at times - and considering it's anonymous, has little accountability for what can be said. Personally, if I were a parent I wouldn't need (or want) to expose myself to what can be a toxic environment particularly in difficult seasons, let alone get involved in it, on a daily basis. There's no reason to try and defend your children one-on-one which it often devolves into -- and now it's getting uncomfortable in talking about mental issues. I'm not sure what the positive outcomes are, aside from the people who wish to try to extract info out...which is also not really appropriate on either side.

Just my personal opinion though, doesn't make it right or wrong.
 
Agreed, but it's still a public forum that anyone may read.

I've always been of the personal belief that a message board like this exists for people to talk about all sorts of things - and they are critical at times and positive at times - and considering it's anonymous, has little accountability for what can be said. Personally, if I were a parent I wouldn't need (or want) to expose myself to what can be a toxic environment particularly in difficult seasons, let alone get involved in it, on a daily basis. There's no reason to try and defend your children one-on-one which it often devolves into -- and now it's getting uncomfortable in talking about mental issues. I'm not sure what the positive outcomes are, aside from the people who wish to try to extract info out...which is also not really appropriate on either side.

Just my personal opinion though, doesn't make it right or wrong.
Point well taken sir and I respect this opinion and more than likely adhere to it bcuz you are right
 
Treed, as a coach, if I'm honest with you as I've always been, this is a weird year for someone trying to move to the next level unless they're the absolute cream of the crop. GM's aren't going to be taking flyers, no risks, no projects. There is No real evaluation, no face to face meetings, lots of unknowns which if it's a regular year, can be determined by tryout's, by talking to the prospect in person. While I love what Nojel brings to the court, I really think he needs for this year to be his best to reach his ultimate goal. Nice young man, polite, getting his grades...never a problem are all great attributes the pro's look for, and he has that.

I'm hoping he stays this year, and has a great final season before moving on up. Leaving this year, in my opinion, would be a mistake.
If he goes he goes, it's his life, let Nojel do what he wants, he doesn't owe any of us anything. I hope he comes back, however, him staying another yr isn't going to make him a first round or probably second round draft pick. He'll get an invite to NBA camp, with his athleticism he might stick. People get angry when kids leave, kids don't owe any of us anything. It's not like Purdue is the only school losing kids, they all are, if Nojel doesn't come back I wish him the best, Purdue will be fine either way.
 
If he goes he goes, it's his life, let Nojel do what he wants, he doesn't owe any of us anything. I hope he comes back, however, him staying another yr isn't going to make him a first round or probably second round draft pick. He'll get an invite to NBA camp, with his athleticism he might stick. People get angry when kids leave, kids don't owe any of us anything. It's not like Purdue is the only school losing kids, they all are, if Nojel doesn't come back I wish him the best, Purdue will be fine either way.
While I agree that he should feel entirely free to make whatever decision that he feels is best for him, I'm afraid that I disagree when people suggest that scholarship athletes don't owe the school or fans anything. As near as I recall they're receiving an education, their food, their lodging and so forth leading to a pretty good lifestyle. No, it's not easy but it's not easy for all of the students working to pay their own freight either. I understand it's a two way street but to suggest they should feel they owe no one anything is pretty shallow.
 
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