Chat with Paul Biancardi

Welcome to SportsNation! On Friday, Scouts Inc.'s basketball recruiting expert Paul Biancardi will stop by to talk about college basketball's future stars.
Biancardi, who spent 2007-08 as an assistant coach on Rick Majerus' staff at Saint Louis University, is the national recruiting director for ESPN Scouts Inc. He has 18 years of coaching experience at the Division I level. He was an assistant at Boston University, Boston College and Ohio State before becoming the head coach at Wright State, where he earned Horizon League Coach of the Year honors in the 2003-04 season.
Send your questions now and join Biancardi Friday at 11 a.m. ET!
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Moderator (10:55 AM)
Hello everyone, thanks for all your questions. I am just about to get Paul on the phone.
Paul Biancardi (11:00 AM)
Today is the first official start of the contact period. Some coaches went out at 12:01 ET last night and some started out this morning, so lets get started.
Zach (Los Angeles)
Hearing that Seton Hall is now the clubhouse leader for Kyle Anderson. Thoughts? Chances he still ends up at UCLA?
Paul Biancardi (11:02 AM)
Hey Zach, not sure where you're getting your information from but the race seems equal at this point. He will begin home visits next week. Many theories where Anderson will go. The hot rumor is St. John's or UCLA.
TL77 (Washington DC)
With Cleare and Layman verbally committing to University of Maryland how do you see there recruiting class rounding out. Amile Jefferson, Mitch McGary and Elijah Macon are all names which have been linked to MD and all three have visited or are visiting (Macon on campus this weekend). Another name who is a dark horse but UMD fans love is Robert Carter.Do you see UMD locking up any of these players or are they all long shots?
Paul Biancardi (11:04 AM)
Dear no name, Mark Turgeon, Scott Spinelli and staff are hitting home runs right now with Cleare and Layman. If they can get two of the three, they will have a stellar class. And keep an eye on Robert Carter, who just put Maryland on his list. Those football unis could be the difference.
Craig (Braintree/MA)
Will Minnesota's incoming class meet their need for guards and help them get to the NCAA tournament this year?
Paul Biancardi (11:06 AM)
Dear Mr. South Shore, Tubby SMith really has a solid class coming in for 2011 and Andre Hollins and Joe Coleman are pair of guards who will give the Gopheres an immediate boost in the backcourt. Hollins could be special because he has an old-school approach to the game. Gophers are in good hands with Hollins. this is a really good recruit, but you have to give Smith time to develop the class.
Rob (Charlottesville)
What's the latest on Syracuse recruiting for the class of 2012? Where do you think Dajuan Coleman ends up? Is there any chance we land Jerami Grant?
Paul Biancardi (11:09 AM)
Rob, I got the latest on Syracuse. They will be in Jerami Grant's home tonight and they expect a campus visit from him next week. They also have a home visit and campus visit set up with DaJuan Coleman. And keep your eye on Tyler Cavanaugh. Competition for Grant is Rutgers and ND. Wagner is Kentucky and Ohio State.
Rusty (Indian Trail, NC)
What are the Tar Heels hoping for this recruiting season after getting Marcus and J.P?
Paul Biancardi (11:11 AM)
Rusty, down the road from me. Easy. Size, size and more size. They want Mitch McGary badly who will be on campus this weekend, they are in the mix for Kaleb Tarczewski, they are going out to see Adam Woodbury to do a home visit and today they are visiting with Brice Johnson.
Chris Fiegler (Latham,NY)
Which High School Basketball Players are going to play at Syracuse for the 2011-2012 Season?
Paul Biancardi (11:13 AM)
Chris, we are looking at three studs to step on the floor. Rakeem Christmas is a shot-blocker, Trevor Cooney is a shooter who can stretch the defense and Michael Carter-Williams who is a big 2-guard who can get his own shot and put points on the board.
bob (ky.)
What players do feel UNC has the best chance of signing from the 2012 class?
Paul Biancardi (11:16 AM)
Hey Bob, signing is a relative term. They are going after all the good post players in the class. They have established McGary, Tarczewski and Woodbury as their main targets in the ESPNU 100. And possibly Joell James. Plus, ESPNU 60 SF Troy Williams will be visiting this weekend.
Brett, louisville [via mobile]
Hey Paul, What are the chances louisville offers pg Terry Rozier, and are the cards still after reclassified Ryan Taylor? Thanks
Paul Biancardi (11:18 AM)
Brett, you're on top of the Cardinals' recruiting. Rozier loves Louisville and his game as a pure combo guard is ideal for Rick Pitino in the backcourt. He can score at a fast tempo and the Cardinals are giving him a hard look. As far as Taylor, yes they are going to keep him on their radar.
John (Short Hills, NJ)
Good morning coach, thanks for taking my question. Is Ed Cooley and his staff's securing of Kris Dunn & Ricardo Ledo the biggest news of the early recruiting season? With the backcourt now filled is there any chance for a PF or C to join the fray? Lastly, is there any way Nerlens Noel reclassifies to 2012 and winds up in Friartown? If not then how about in 2013?
Paul Biancardi (11:20 AM)
John, Go Friars. Without coaching a game, Ed Cooley has made the biggest splash in all of recruiting. To being in two top-30 talents in your first year on the job is outstanding. Dunn has NBA potential. There are whispers of Noel going into the Class of 2012, if that happens the Friars will be in the mix for the nation's best shot-blocker
alan (la)
do Shabazz Muhammad n Kyle Anderson both go ucla?
Paul Biancardi (11:21 AM)
Alan, That's been a hot rumor. They have been there together unofficially. At the end of the day each are going to make the decision that's best for them. Anderson is going to decide on Sept. 20 and Muhammad is still going to take visits.
Brock (Chatham, NC)
What basketball player, college or pros, does TJ Warren most resemble? Also, where do you think the stud SF ends up?
Paul Biancardi (11:23 AM)
Off the top of my head, he reminds me of Antoine Walker. Strength, versatility and skill. I don't know what school he will end up at but I don't think he's leaving the state of North Carolina.
Brian (NYC)
What do you take of the work Jim Engles has done over at NJIT? 0 wins to 15 in 3 years!
Paul Biancardi (11:25 AM)
Dear Brian, love the mid-major question. He's performed a minor miracle there. You are talking about one of the latest schools to go Division I. With very little resources and not much tradition, he needs to grind it out and find guys schools don't want or can't get in. But Engles knows how to build programs.
Michael (Houston, Texas)
Where do you see Duke being at the end of the season and is Quinn Cook the starting point guard we he comes back from injury?
Paul Biancardi (11:27 AM)
Michael, we have had a chance to see Duke play against China. It's obvious the PG position will be integral to the their success. Quinn Cook has the ability but has to learn the mental part of the game and understand what Coach K wants and the team needs. But yes, he can work his way into the starting lineup but until then it will be by committee with Curry, Rivers and Thornton.
sleezoid (new york)
where wud u rank drummond in the 2011 class, i say top 3
Paul Biancardi (11:28 AM)
I'd say I agree with you. You should be a recruiting analyst.
Eazy (Bronx NY)
I'm a huge Syracuse Orange fan, do you think we still lead for Coleman, because I don't think we are getting him, and do you think Dion can be an all american before his college career is done, because I think he will be a STUD before its all said and done?
Paul Biancardi (11:30 AM)
Dear Eazy, why don't you think you're gettign Coleman? I think they are the favorite to land him. He has a tremendous relationship with associate head coach Mike Hopkins since the sixth grade. In regards to Waiters, I watched him over the years and he has matured on the floor. When the Orange need to make a play, he will be the guy but he has to make sure not to rush the process.
Keegan (SF)
I know UNC has some solid commitments for the coming years but its still seems that they are not be seriously considered by countries top recruits in 2012 & 2013. Why is that? Is it style of play?
Paul Biancardi (11:33 AM)
Keegan, have to disagree with you on this one. UNC have been landing elite prospects who have blossomed into excellent ACC players. They got the No. 1 player in Barnes in 2010, Kendall Marshall has completely changed the complexion. You are going to love McAdoo this year and Paige in the 2012 class. Roy Williams is on a tear right now. Not only are they brining in great talent, but they are great people too.
Jared (Austin, Texas)
What player in the class of 2012 will your guess be the #1 player in the nation once it comes time for highschool graduation?
Paul Biancardi (11:37 AM)
Jared, this is a great question. With Drummond out of the mix, we have Muhammad at No. 1 and its his to lose. If he continues at his pace of production and work ethic, it's going to be hard to knock him down. Some dark horses include Kyle Anderson, Mitch McGary, Anthony Bennett.
Katerina (Weddington, NC)
I have seen you on tv Coach, and I really enjoy watching the Recruiting insider! So my question is what will I expect from the class of 2012 for the University of Texas? Will they have a chance to shine in the spotlight?
Paul Biancardi (11:40 AM)
Kat, someone in your family must be a Longhorn graduate? The two-man class of Ridley and Felix will bring instant production. Ridley knows his role inside and Felix looks to score but knows how to set up his teammates. When you blend these two with UT's six-man class from last year and you have the makings of something special.
Ray (DC)
Why isn't Gtown nabbing any top flight recruits for 12-13? Maryland is stealing all of the thunder and the Hoyas haven't made any quality attempts at grabbing anyone. Pls enlightned me?
Paul Biancardi (11:43 AM)
Are you ready to be enlightened about Georgetown? First, their 2011 class with Porer, Hopkins and Trawick was outstanding. As they go forward in 2012 and 2013, they are in the mix for Kyle Anderson and D'Vauntes Smith Rivera and in 2013 they are on Nate Britt hard. JTIII has a plan in his recruiting and its to get size with skill.
Riley (Tucson AZ)
everybody seems to be saying that with the addition of Ashley, our chances with tarczewski dwindle. Don't you think he will want to play with the the #1 recruiting class over whatever Kansas has managed to piece together?
Paul Biancardi (11:45 AM)
Riley, getting Ashley doesn't affect Tarczewski. Ashley is a PF/SF and Tarczewski is a C. Tarc has a big decision with Kansas and UNC breathing down his neck. If he picks Zona, there is good chance to hang onto the top class.
Jordan (Tampa)
Do you think Duke will get any big men in this years class? I think McGary or Parker would be a good pick up to compliment Rasheed.
Paul Biancardi (11:46 AM)
McGary and Parker would be GREAT pickups and be prepared for Rasheed Sulaimon who is one of the most complete guards in the country. You will love his game and character.
Mark (Indiana)
If IU nabs Gary Harris, are they back on top of the class rankings?
Paul Biancardi (11:47 AM)
If they nab Harris, it will be close. But more importantly that would be an unbelievable group of freshman incoming. Can't remember one that good for IU.
Josh (Bloomington)
Its been speculated that the PG position has been weak in the 2012 class, but there seems to be a lot of top talent with Paige, Dunn, Ferrell, etc. Is PG a thin position in this class?
Paul Biancardi (11:49 AM)
The reason the PG position is considered weak is because there isn't a Knight, Wall or Irving in this class, which is rare. Paige, Dunn, Ferrell, Robinson and Ogbueze are the elite PGs in this class that anyone would love. And then there are some very good ones beyond that.
Sean (Clinton Maryland)
With James Robinson alread committing to Pitt where do you think Jerami Grant & Arnaud Moto his Team Takeover Teammates will end up as well.
Paul Biancardi (11:51 AM)
Dear Sean, I bet your hoping Grant or Moto become a Terp. Grant will make his decision between Rutgers, ND and Syracuse soon. Moto is taking his time with the process and will most likely decide late. But they won't end up together.
Martin (New York)
Witch school is the favorite to land Kyle Anderson?
Paul Biancardi (11:52 AM)
I would have to say St. John's. Local school with tremendous success last year with Steve Lavin. Anderson has a close family and they all want to see him play, which could make proximity a factor.
Pat (Pittsburgh)
Hey, Paul. My first question is will PITT recruits James Robinson and Steven Adams bring in any more top talent in 2012? Secondly, on a scale from 1-10 what are PITT's chances of landing Anthony Bennett or Elijah Macon? Thanks.
Paul Biancardi (11:53 AM)
Pat, Jamie Dixon is crushing it in the recruiting world. Lat year with Birch and this year with Robinson and Adams. Pitt's chances on Bennett are 5 and for Macon I give it an 8.
Mitch (Bloomington)
Hey Paul... Love your work. What are you thoughts on Duke's most likely 2012 grabs? Seems to me their odds are fading a little with some of the big games and the 2013 class has more potential for the Devils.
Paul Biancardi (11:55 AM)
Thanks Mitch. Tony Parker, Alex Poythress, Shabazz Muhammad and Mitch McGary are their main targets. As far as 2013 goes, Duke will be looking for an elite PG.
Jordan (Kentucky)
Where do you thing Shabazz Muhammad will end up?
Paul Biancardi (11:56 AM)
I don't know where he will end up but I know he's going to KY for Midnight Madness. If you're a Wildcats fan, you're in a great position.
Cory (GR MI)
Who do you think Kentucky will land first(2012)?
Paul Biancardi (11:57 AM)
McGary is visiting soon and the bulk of KY's recruits -- Muhammad, Poythress and Goodwin -- are scheduled for Midnight Madness. So right after Midnight Madness, expect some popping.
Jeremy (Tucson)
Who do you think Arizona targets if Tarcsewski choses kansas with there forth offer? Landon lucas or Robert Upshaw
Paul Biancardi (11:58 AM)
Yes, look for Robert Upshaw who has them in his top five and don't be surprised if Anthony Bennett -- who is teammates with Brandon Ashley -- decides to give them a hard look.
adam (durahm)
could you mitch mcgary and tj warren being a package deal to unc?
Paul Biancardi (11:59 AM)
McGary is going to do his own thing, as is Warren. If UNC gets both of them what a tremendous stock pile of talent that would be.
Bob (Ann Arbor, MI)
Where does D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera end up. Georgetown, MSU, and Xavier seem to be the top three.
Paul Biancardi (12:00 PM)
Bob, I'll say Louisville or Georgetown.
John (North Carolina)
Mark Gottfried has been putting in work recruiting for NC State, what is the likely hood they wrap up both TJ Warren and Rodney Purvis?
Paul Biancardi (12:04 PM)
Coach Gottfried is bringing the excitement back to NC State. He was in charlotte this morning to see 2014 Sheldon Mitchell and Allerik Freeman.
Paul Biancardi (12:04 PM)
I wish we had more time to answer all these questions. I love your passion. Keep up to date with ESPN Recruiting and basketball signing day is only a couple of months away. Thanks for all your questions.
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