Leaderboard

We were in those games in large part because Riak was the leader and anchor of a top 25 defense. He's also as I understand it set to be a senior with Reece and Sayles both being juniors. You're right that bigs take some time to develop that's why we need at least one this class that way they have a year to develop behind Reece and Sayles.

I think we all agree here more than not. The challenge is landing these bigs. And even though I don't believe Groce will ever stop searching for bigs that fit the system, the truth of the matter is there are at least twice as many quality guards and wings out there than there are bigs. So even though the importance of Riak's presence is undeniable and there is an urgency to find our next Riak, we also need to get this collection of quality guards and wings playing at an extremely high level, ASAP. I believe this is a huge off-season for the growth of the program and you will see a much improved and expansive offense next season. Also we have all the pieces in the locker room now to win the MAC. It just comes down to how fast they mature and gel. And of course, staying healthy. And if Akron hits this level of success, landing quality bigs that fit our system will become much, much easier.

Side note: How hilarious would it be for the MAC to add Duquesne in basketball, bringing KD back to the MAC?

When the MAC extends an offer to Duquesne to join the MAC it will be one of the seven signs of the apocalypse. According to last season's-ending Kenpom ratings they would be a bottom feeder in MAC basketball and based on last season's-ending Sagarin football ratings they would probably be ranked 17th in the 13 team MAC.

Academics: https://gozips.com/news/2019/6/28/akron-football-makes-strides-in-the-classroom.aspx

"Bigs" do tend to take more time to develop typically, so maybe grabbing a player with 2-4 years of experience already is the better move? Here's what I do know. We were in nearly every single game last year with only one guy above 6'9" (Sayles was hurt most of the season). Our losses came from not being able to score/make jump shots at a consistent rate. If there's a concerted effort to fix that, I'll be very happy and will worry about the "bigs" later on.

Current status.