The No. 1 Kansas Jayhawks just suffered one of the most shocking losses of the young <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> season. For the first time in a century, they dropped a game to Creighton.



It wasn’t just that they lost but how they lost. The best team in the nation trailed by as many as 17 points, and they were never in the lead in the game. Eventually, they fell 76-63.



The Jayhawks shot just 36% from the floor, while the home side shot well over 47%. When asked about the loss, coach Bill Self had a rather answer: The other team made shots. 



<h2>Bill Self has an odd excuse after loss to Creighton</h2>



“Have you ever played ball before?” the coach asked. “Sometimes it’s hard to keep that type of intensity up for the whole time because other team make shots. There are things that happen to disrupt that intensity. But if I’m not mistaken, we cut it to three, and I think we may have missed a shot to cut it to one or tie it. And then they made a couple of shots when we actually defended them decent. And then I thought Zeke got fouled on the one play, and that turned out to be a seven-point swing, which was a pretty big play.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241205_BUS_287052_Bill-Self1-1024x576_a1b972fb.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-287060" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05150918/Bill-Self1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05150918/Bill-Self1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05150918/Bill-Self1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05150918/Bill-Self1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05150918/Bill-Self1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05150918/Bill-Self1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05150918/Bill-Self1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05150918/Bill-Self1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kansas Jayhawks head coach Bill Self during the first half against the Michigan State Spartans in the NCAA, College League, USA Basketball matchup at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, GA</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The defense collapsed in this second half, says Self</h2>



The coach did admit that his team’s defense wasn’t particularly good in the second half. However, he kept giving the other team credit for making timely shots:



“I don’t think it was because we didn’t try. I think it was more, we probably weren’t as turned up as we need to be turned up. I thought our ball screen defense in the first half was pretty good. We just couldn’t guard the ball. The second half wasn’t as good. But I thought that when you don’t make shots, and you don’t run good offense, and the other team is able to shoot the ball and be as good as they were offensively, it doesn’t take much to be off, just a little bit. And that was obviously the case. We were off a little bit, and they were really on, and they’re plenty good enough to beat us if we’re both good and we weren’t good tonight,” the coach concluded.


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At the end of the day, the Jayhawks are much better than they showed in this game, so Self is right in not being too worried about his team. Then again, it’s a short season, and they can’t allow this to snowball.

NCAAB News: Kansas coach has head-scratching excuse after losing to Creighton

NCAAB News: Kansas coach has head-scratching excuse after losing to Creighton - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The No. 9 Duke Blue Devils will look to make a statement on Wednesday night. Cooper Flagg and company will host the No. 2 Auburn Tigers in a high-flying matchup.



At the time of writing, the home team is favored by 3.5 points. The Blue Devils have gone 4-0 all-time vs. Auburn, but the Tigers figure to be in the best form right now, as they have yet to lose a game this season.



It’s never easy to predict the winner of a matchup between two top-10 teams. With that in mind, NCAA expert Brenden Marks of The Athletic dug deep into this exciting contest, sharing his thoughts on who might win the game and why.



<h2>Duke and Auburn: A clash of styles</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“This is strength vs. strength. Duke leads the nation in adjusted defensive efficiency, per KenPom, while Auburn is No. 1 in adjusted offensive efficiency,” wrote Marks. “Duke, which is one of the nation’s tallest teams and doesn’t have a rotation player under 6-foot-5, only allows 58.6 points per game, good for the ninth-fewest nationally. Auburn, meanwhile, averages 86.7 points per game, which ranks 21st nationally, and dropped 74 and 83 against the two other top-15 defenses it has faced so far.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241204_BUS_286186_Johni-Broome-1024x576_7e59c9f0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Johni Broome" class="wp-image-285798" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Johni-Broome-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Johni-Broome-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Johni-Broome-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Johni-Broome-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Johni-Broome-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Johni-Broome-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Johni-Broome-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Johni-Broome.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>November 10, 2024, Cypress, Texas, USA: Auburn forward JOHNI BROOME (4) reacts after dunking the ball during Saturday s game, at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. Cypress USA</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Expert predicts Auburn to beat Duke</h2>



While he believes there’s a case to be made for Duke to protect their homecourt, he ultimately believes Auburn will take care of business. The game, however, will go down to the wire: 



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“The parallels are wild… so what will be the difference-maker in this big matchup? Could it be home-court advantage? Duke is playing inside Cameron Indoor Stadium with its favorable rims. Could be Auburn’s defense? The Tigers rank No. 1 in defensive assist rate and No. 5 in allowed 3-point rate. I lean the latter, but it’s close,” wrote Marks.</blockquote>


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Of course, this game looks like a toss-up, and it’s never wise to go against elite talents. Whatever the case, one thing is for sure: This will be a must-watch matchup.

NCAAB News: Experts have bold prediction about Auburn vs. Duke matchup

NCAAB News: Experts have bold prediction about Auburn vs. Duke matchup - Bolavip US

We’re still months away from the 2025 NBA Draft, but with a month of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>season in the books, the picture is starting to shape. Of course, Duke star Cooper Flagg still looks like the first-overall pick, but it all can change.



Notably, Rutgers freshman PG Dylan Harper is making big strides. He’s averaging almost 24 points and 4.5 assists per game, climbing the ladder as a potential challenger for the top spot.



With that in mind, former NBA champion Ron Harper — Dylan’s father — made it loud and clear that he doesn’t want his son to play for the Utah Jazz, who currently has one of the worst records in the NBA.



<h2>Ron Harper doesn’t want his son in Utah</h2>



Harper claimed that “a trade would happen” if his son were to land in Utah. He reportedly turned down a trade to the Jazz when he was a player as well. Shortly after, after a social media frenzy, the former champion backpedaled and claimed that he was just joking:



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241204_BUS_285861_Dylan-Harper-1024x576_f8d00974.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Dylan Harper" class="wp-image-285819" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Dylan-Harper.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dylan Harper #2 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights celebrates defeating Notre Dame Fighting Irish 85-84 in overtime of their game during the Players Era Festival basketball tournament at MGM Grand Garden Arena on November 26, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.</figcaption></figure>



“Stop believe (sic) what I said about my son playing in Utah Jazz. if me and a friend have a tweet about what team want him it’s all about fun…. I don’t control my son or a NBA team draft board… lol I see pictures of a few teams that I wouldn’t want him on but it’s not my career,” Harper tweeted. 



<h2>Harper is climbing the big boards</h2>



Harper is currently penciled in as the No. 3 pick in the NBA Draft, but ESPN expert Jonathan Givony believes that he could be a serious challenger to end the season as the first one off the board:



“Dylan Harper has been the best freshman in college basketball one month into the season,” Givony wrote on X. “Making a strong case to challenge Cooper Flagg as a No. 1 pick candidate.”


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It’s still early, but he does come from an NBA lineage. And with the way he’s playing and Flagg’s recent struggles with Duke, he could give him a run for his money.

NCAAB News: NBA legend threatens Utah Jazz about drafting Rutgers star

NCAAB News: NBA legend threatens Utah Jazz about drafting Rutgers star - Bolavip US

The Kentucky Wildcats are undefeated no more. The team some consider to be the best in the nation couldn’t handle the Clemson Tigers, taking their record to 7-1.



Mark Pope’s team led by more than 15 minutes, yet they couldn’t hold onto get the win. Clemson escaped with a 70-66 decision, leaving a bittersweet taste in their mouths.



The Wildcats won the battle on the interior, slightly outscoring their opponents in the restricted area. Nevertheless, Clemson’s grit and grind were too much to handle for Kentucky, according to coach Pope.



<h2>Clemson’s physicality made a difference</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“It was a really physical game. It’s a credit to them,” Pope said after the loss. “It’s how they play. Their bigs are relentless with their physicality toward working it into the post.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241204_BUS_285846_Mark-Pope1-1024x576_10a443d4.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope" class="wp-image-285801" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption> Kentucky basketball coach Mark Pope didn t produce an NBA draft pick during his nine combined seasons as the head coach at Utah Valley and BYU. (Ryan C. Hermens Lexington Herald-Leader TNS</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Turnovers hurt the Wildcats, says Pope</h2>



It was an uncharacteristically sloppy outing for Kentucky overall. They handed out eleven assists and had twelve turnovers, and you’re not going to win many games with that formula:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“We tried to — out of the goodness of our hearts and the care for our team — fix a lot of things by ourselves. It’s just not how we play. We’re not a minus assist-to-turnover ratio team,“ said Pope. “That’s not who we are, and all the credit goes to Clemson for creating that environment.”</blockquote>


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The Wildcats won’t have much time to get back on their feet, as they have an even tougher matchup on deck. They will battle No. 8 Gonzaga in a neutral site on Saturday night, and they will need to clean their act up for that high-flying contest.

NCAAB News: Frustrated Mark Pope knows why Kentucky lost to Clemson

NCAAB News: Frustrated Mark Pope knows why Kentucky lost to Clemson - Bolavip US

For years, Duke star Cooper Flagg was penciled in as the first-overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft class. He went viral online since his days at Montverde Academy, and showed flashes of greatness in his scrimmages with Team USA last offseason.



One month into the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> season, that continues to be the case. Even despite some late-game miscues and his struggles from beyond the arc, Flagg is still atop most big boards.



Nevertheless, ESPN NBA Draft expert Jonathan Givony believes someone can finally give him a run for his money, making a case for Rutgers star Dylan Harper to take his spot.



<h2>NBA Draft experts think Dylan Harper can go No. 1.</h2>



“Dylan Harper has been the best freshman in college basketball one month into the season,” Givony wrote on X. “Making a strong case to challenge Cooper Flagg as a No. 1 pick candidate.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241204_BUS_285818_Cooper-Flagg-1024x576_a8cb8ae6.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-278552" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils looks on during the first half against the Arizona Wildcats at McKale Center on November 22, 2024 in Tucson, Arizona. </figcaption></figure>



Notably, he’s not the only one who feels that way. Cameron Salerno of CBS Sports chose Harper as their Freshman of the Week, talking about his ascending NBA Draft stock:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Harper put up some historic numbers in wins over Notre Dame and Alabama to hold on to his No. 2 ranking. Harper is averaging 23.8 points, 4.6 assists and 4.5 rebounds on the season. If he keeps up this level of play, there’s a strong possibility he’ll be the second player to come off the board in the 2025 NBA Draft behind,” Salerno wrote.</blockquote>


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Harper also comes from NBA lineage. He’s the son of former NBA champion Ron Harper, and his older brother, Ron Harper Jr., is deemed as the greatest player in Rutgers history. There’s still a long way to go, but if he keeps this up, things could get interesting come Draft day.

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper officially challenges Cooper Flagg for top NBA draft spot

NCAAB News: ESPN expert explains why Cooper Flagg will be an NBA star

NCAAB News: Dylan Harper officially challenges Cooper Flagg for top NBA draft spot - Bolavip US

To say that this has been a disappointing season for the UConn Huskies would be a bit of an understatement. The defending <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> champions have fallen to the No. 25 spot in the AP rankings, and things won’t get much easier for them down the road.



Dan Hurley’s team will square up against the No. 15 Baylor Bears. They haven’t looked particularly sharp lately, ending their 17-game winning streak with three losses to free-fall 23 spots in the AP Top 25 rankings.



Needless to say, their statement win over Maryland Eastern Shore on Saturday was quite necessary, but it didn’t do much to shift the sentiment back in their favor. 



<h2>Dan Hurley urges his players to step up</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“If we want to win this game tomorrow, some people are gonna have to announce themselves in college basketball,” Coach Hurley said when asked about his team’s upcoming matchup with Baylor. “We also know we’re playing a top-level team, so it’s a big game for us and it’s a big game for them.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="631" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241204_BUS_285797_danhurleyjpg_242310155-1024x631_7b59b4ed.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=631" alt="" class="wp-image-217995" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/danhurleyjpg_242310155-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/danhurleyjpg_242310155-300x185.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/danhurleyjpg_242310155-768x474.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/danhurleyjpg_242310155.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dan Hurley head coach of the UConn Huskies</figcaption></figure>



Following that crucial clash, the Huskies will also square up vs. the likes of Gonzaga and Xavier, and coach Hurley knows his team could be a victim of their own expectations:


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<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“The psyche from the monster we’ve created as a staff and team is jarring,” Hurley said.</blockquote>



Of course, there’s still plenty of time to turn things around, and one should know better than to count the Huskies out. Then again, for now, it’ll take a lot for people to believe in them again.

NCAAB News: Dan Hurley calls out UConn players ahead of Baylor matchup

NCAAB News: Dan Hurley calls out UConn players ahead of Baylor matchup - Bolavip US

There were high hopes and expectations for the Duke Blue Devils entering this season. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cooper-flagg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cooper Flagg</a>, the undisputed No. 1 prospect in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>, had all eyes on him long before he announced his commitment.



Then again, things haven’t been as smooth in Durham so far. Duke is 5-2 to start the season, including tough losses to No. 4 Kentucky and No. 1 Kansas. Moreover, Flagg had some miscues in crucial times in both of the losses.



Then again, the 17-year-old, who’s projected to be the first-overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, isn’t too bothered because of that. If anything, he knows it’s all a part of the learning process.



<h2>Cooper Flagg talks about Duke’s issues</h2>



“I think for us, it’s just about experience,” Flagg said. “We have some people, me included, that haven’t been in these types of situations before. So we’re just going to keep learning, keep doing our best. We trust each other, we trust the plays coach is calling. It just comes down to us executing and getting the shots that we want. And just comes with experience.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241203_BUS_285150_Cooper-Flagg-1024x576_fff1cc84.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-284788" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Cooper-Flagg-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Cooper-Flagg-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Cooper-Flagg-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Cooper-Flagg-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Cooper-Flagg-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Cooper-Flagg-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Cooper-Flagg-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Cooper-Flagg.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>NCAA, College League, USA Basketball 2024: Seattle vs Duke NOV 29 November 29, 2024: Duke Blue Devils guard Cooper Flagg (2) catches a lob during the NCAA Basketball game between the Seattle Redhawks and the Duke Blue Devils at Cameron Indoor Stadium in Durham, North Carolina. Greg Atkins CSM </figcaption></figure>



Duke veteran guard Tyrese Proctor had similar thoughts about this issue. As much as people will point the finger at the star, it takes a team effort to get the job done:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Everyone keeps talking about the turnovers and Cooper turning it over,” Proctor said. “I mean, it’s a sum of the whole game. We’re missing rebounds. We’re not getting back in D transition. That leads to turnovers that result in points. But, end of the game, we trust them to have the ball in their hands. We know they can make a play.”</blockquote>



<h2>Jon Scheyer wants Duke to play with toughness</h2>



The Blue Devils rallied late to get a 22-point win over Seattle on Friday night. Nevertheless, coach Jon Scheyer believes the game should’ve never been close to begin with:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I just thought we were really soft in the first half,” Scheyer said after the win. “They were more physical with us. That’s two games in a row. They came out more physical than us on defense. We were softer. I thought we were rushing shots. We had too many turnovers. We need to finish stronger, drive stronger, make extra passes.”</blockquote>


 

 


Duke will now square off with No. 2 Auburn on Wednesday night. The Tigers are undefeated after seven games, and with a physical specimen like Johni Broome anchoring the paint, the Blue Devils will need to be a little more physical than usual to make a statement.

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NCAAB News: Duke stars get real on Cooper Flagg's turnover issues - Bolavip US

Duke stars address Cooper Flagg's issues

Rick Pitino is one of the greatest and most prominent figures in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> history. A two-time NCAA Champion — although one of his titles was vacated — and a long-standing figure in the scene, he’s seen and done it all.



That’s why he’s one of the most authorized voices to talk about recruiting, the transfer portal, and this NIL era and frenzy that the NCAA is going through right now. 



In a recent appearance on WFAN with Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/rick-pitino">Pitino</a> shared his honest thoughts on the current state of affairs. Contrary to most of his colleagues, he’s actually all for the players making money.



<h2>Rick Pitino supports NIL, not so sure about transfer portal</h2>



“I’m not anti-NIL. Tom Izzo is anti-NIL, Jay Wright was, Tony Bennett was anti-portal. I’m not anti that at all. I felt that we’ve been making millions of dollars all those years. The players should make money, so I’m for that,“ Pitino said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241203_BUS_285142_Rick-Pitino1-1024x576_5bf6e3ee.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-285146" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>January 24, 2020, Madrid, MADRID, SPAIN: Rick Pitino of Panathinaikos gestures during the EuroLeague basketball match played between Real Madrid Baloncesto and Panathinaikos OPAP Athens at Wizink Center pavilion on January 24, 2020 in Madrid, Spain. Basket: EuroLeague – Real Madrid v Panathinaikos</figcaption></figure>



However, in regards to the players being able to move between programs left and right with the new transfer portal rules, he’s not 100% sold on the idea just yet:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Now I’m not crazy about the transfer portal, because guys, I have a center, backup center from USC [Vince Iwuchukwu] that I think is going to be a very good player someday, but it’s going to take time and effort. Well, he’s going to say, ‘Well, look, if I’m only playing 10 minutes a game. I’m going to go transfer; they’re promising me 30 minutes a game.’ So that part I don’t like. But as far as the players being paid, I don’t have a problem with that,” he added.</blockquote>


 

 


College basketball is transitioning into a new era, and as such, everybody will have an opinion on what’s going on. And as much as not fighting through adversity and chasing an easier path to the court somewhere else might be detrimental to a player’s character, it was only right that they were financially compensated for their efforts.

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NCAAB News: Rick Pitino gets brutally honest on NIL, transfer portal - Bolavip US

Rick Pitino gets real on NIL and the transfer portal

Now that the UConn Huskies are back on track, coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dan-hurley">Dan Hurley</a> wants to make one thing loud and clear: He’s done with MTEs, not only for now but for years to come as well.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/uconn">UConn</a> endured a tough trip to Maui last week, sustaining three shocking defeats in the Maui Invitational Tournament. Following his program’s 99-45 route of Maryland Eastern Shore, the renowned coach revealed his team wouldn’t play in multi-team events anymore:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I’m not doing another 3-game MTE again,” Hurley said. “Moving forward, we will only play home-and-homes or single-game events — I don’t think I’ll ever do a 3-game MTE again. There’s zero chance I ever do that again.”</blockquote>



<h2>Dan Hurley explains the decision not to play MTEs again</h2>



According to multiple reports, coach Hurley, who calls all the shots for the basketball program, was already considering this move even before his team’s winless run in Maui:



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="631" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241203_BUS_285127_danhurleyjpg_242310155-1024x631_384dba81.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=631" alt="" class="wp-image-217995" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/danhurleyjpg_242310155-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/danhurleyjpg_242310155-300x185.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/danhurleyjpg_242310155-768x474.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/danhurleyjpg_242310155.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dan Hurley head coach of the UConn Huskies</figcaption></figure>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“With the non-conference, rather than a third party, when you’re in a revenue-sharing situation like we’re heading into now, you’ve got to maximize the non-conference slate,” Hurley said. “We still want to play neutral-site games, particularly like MSG and places that make sense. But, we’ve got to play a schedule that’s going to have more home-and-homes on it than anything else right now.”</blockquote>



When asked about this bold statement, UConn Director of Athletics David Benedict had his coach’s side, stating that they also needed to take financials into consideration:


 

 


<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“What does it cost us to travel to events?,” Benedict asked. “How much revenue do we derive? What are we giving up by not playing a home game? Those are all things that we’re factoring into that equation. And so, we’re working with lots of different promoters and media companies right now to evaluate creating the best path forward, so we manage the schedule the way that Coach Hurley wants, but is also the best for us financially.”</blockquote>



This is a disappointing turn of events for the fans, and this decision will be met with some skepticism. Even so, this is a new era in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>, and as such, everybody will have to adapt.

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UConn's Dan Hurley makes shocking statement after 0-3 MTE run - Bolavip US

Dan Hurley makes shocking statement after 0-3 MTE run

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> scene is rallying behind fifth-year forward Kasean Pryor, who’s now expected to miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season. The Louisville Cardinals star tore the ACL in his left knee in the loss to Oklahoma in the Bad Boy Mowers Battle 4 Atlantis championship game.



The program announced that Pryor would make a full recovery, with him later sharing a heartfelt message on his Instagram account shortly after the news broke:



“Not the way I expected my senior year of basketball to end!” Pryor wrote, “God’s timing is always perfect, and I know things happen for a reason! A minor setback for a major comeback! I could never quit! Card Nation, I appreciate the love and support throughout this journey; it’s definitely felt! And to everyone who’s reached out to send their prayers and (well) wishes, thank you! They mean a lot to me! The work doesn’t stop here! I’ll be cheering my guys on all season!”



<h2>Kasean Pryor could still return for another season</h2>



Even though Pryor has already played for five years, he could still apply for a medical redshirt. That would allow him to play for an additional sixth season, although there’s no word about whether he intends to do so or not.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241203_BUS_285120_Kasean-Pryor1-1024x576_8b0a62ef.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-285122" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Kasean-Pryor1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Kasean-Pryor1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Kasean-Pryor1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Kasean-Pryor1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Kasean-Pryor1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Kasean-Pryor1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Kasean-Pryor1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Kasean-Pryor1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>NCAA, College League, USA Basketball 2024: Louisville Cardinals vs Tennessee Vols NOV 9TH November 9, 2024: Louisville Cardinals Kasean Pryor 7 blocks a shot during the NCAA basketball game action between the Louisville Cardinals vs Tennessee Vols at KFC Yum Center in Louisville Kentucky. Cory Eads Cal Media </figcaption></figure>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Kasean’s going to continue to make an impact on this team, even though he’s not (going to be) on the floor,” coach Pat Kelsey said. “His locker room presence, his energy, his personality are infectious. He’s a terrific leader on our team, so we expect him to contribute in that regard moving forward.”</blockquote>



Pryor’s injury occurred in the least fortunate way, as he was clipped by his own teammate, PG Chucky Hepburn, less than a minute into the second half after trying to defend a drive. 


 

 


The South Florida transfer had recently earned a spot in the starting lineup, averaging 12 points per game on 37% from beyond the arc to go along with 6.1 rebounds, 1.6 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game.

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For years, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> fans and scouts alike have kept a close eye on Cooper Flagg. The Duke forward went viral during his days at Montverde Academy because of his rare combination of size, shooting, and handles.



Deemed as the best player in his class, he was expected to dominate the<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow"> </a><a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> scene right out of the gate. However, while he has been good, his numbers haven’t popped out in the way some people expected.



With that in mind, ESPN expert Seth Greenberg explained why there’s nothing to be worried about when it comes to him because his game is better suited for the pros than for college:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“He’s gonna be the number one pick in the NBA Draft,” started Greenberg. “In the NBA, there’s spacing and the 24-second clock. He’s playing with no space right now, but when he gets to an NBA roster, there will be tremendous space. The spacing Duke is playing with is hurting him because people are game-planning to get the ball out of his hands. You can’t do that in the NBA.”</blockquote>



<h2>NBA Teams Will Win By Losing</h2>



Flagg stands at 6-foot-9, and he’s going to keep getting better. He can play both forward spots and even at the five, and his ability to stretch the floor and create for others makes him a unique prospect.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241202_BUS_284783_Cooper-Flagg-1024x576_9f7367d5.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Cooper Flagg" class="wp-image-278552" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/Cooper-Flagg.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Cooper Flagg #2 of the Duke Blue Devils looks on during the first half against the Arizona Wildcats at McKale Center on November 22, 2024 in Tucson, Arizona. </figcaption></figure>



Through seven games, he’s averaging 15.9 points, 8.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.4 steals. and 1.4 blocks per game. On the downside, he’s shooting just 27% from three-point range, but again, he should benefit from the NBA’s spacing.


 

 


As of now, the 2-16 Washington Wizards look poised to be in the mix to get him all season long, and so will the 4-17 New Orleans Pelicans, 4-16 Utah Jazz, and 4-14 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/philadelphia-76ers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philadelphia 76ers</a>.



The fans never want to lose, but when the light at the end of the tunnel is a potential generational superstar like Flagg, it might be worth enduring a tough season just to get him.

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NCAAB News: ESPN expert explains why Cooper Flagg will be an NBA star - Bolavip US

ESPN expert explains why Cooper Flagg will be an NBA star

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