Moderator

  (2:59 PM)

Thanks for all your questions. I am about to get on a conference call with the scouts.

Dave Telep

  (3:03 PM)

Thanks for all your questions. WE are excited about the two big announcements tonight and there is news breaking about Ricardo Gathers -- One piece of news coming out Baylor land is regarding Ricardo Gathers. I spoke with his brother this afternoon and he indicated Ricardo would not sign this week. They remain committed to the Bears but would like to see what happens with potential sanctions. With the LSU job open, I asked if they'd look at the Tigers but the timing isn't right and their preference is to wait and see what happens. As long as there are no post-season sanctions, Baylor has an excellent chance to retain his commitment. Now lets get to the questions.

Chris (St. Louis)

I know Bennett won't sign today, will Parker sign?

Dave Telep

  (3:05 PM)

I spopke with Parker's HS coach last night and he is not signing today. Tony, we have no idea what you're going to do.

Chris (St. Louis)

Which prospect means the most to the program they are going too?

Reggie Rankin

  (3:07 PM)

I would say that would be Kyle Anderson to UCLA with his playmaking ability, versatilty, immediate impact and the fact that other players want to play with him. He could be the guy who could bring in more big recruits.

Chris (St. Louis)

Besides the Adams kid going to Pitt, is there another international prospect that could make an impact next year?

Mike LaPlante

  (3:08 PM)

Of course, let's not forget about Anthony Bennett who is from Canada but another player who could have a big impact is 6-10 Patson Siame who is from Zambia who is going to have big impact for Max Good at Loyola Marymount.

Chris (St. Louis)

Is there a player outside the top 50 that you can see coming out of nowhere and making some serious noise next year?

Dave Telep

  (3:10 PM)

Codi Miller-McIntyre will start at the point for Jeff Bzdelik. He is a confident shooter and if he can manage the team, he will have a big impact in the ACC at Wake Forest.

Mike LaPlante

  (3:11 PM)

I think two other players are Maurice Watson at Boston University and Fred Van Vleet at Wichita State. Both players have the potential to be first-team all-conference players.

Reggie Rankin

  (3:12 PM)

I think No. 53 Winston Shepard could have a big impact at San Diego State. His defense will get him on the floor early and his athleticism in transition is scary. He's gotten better every time we evaluate him.

Trevor Boehm Wilmette Illinois [via mobile]

Will amil jefferson be a force in college?

Reggie Rankin

  (3:13 PM)

I say yes. He plays to his strengths. He's a live-body rebounder and slasher. He has the ability to do a lot of the positive things on both ends of floor.

Sean (Ohio)

As a Xavier fan, what do you think of their recruiting class?

Mike LaPlante

  (3:17 PM)

Xavier's coaches are tremendous at evaluating talent. This year's class includes a heavy does of prep schoolers and players like reynolds and davis will have a big impact on the program.

Allen (New York)

How will Xavier do this year with the loss of Tu Holloway?

Reggie Rankin

  (3:19 PM)

Semaj Christon will also fit right in for Tu Holloway. He can score and distribute and the Musketeers shouldn't miss a beat at the point. He has good size and experience as a postgraduate.

Jacob (independence ky)

John Calipari is the worst thing to happen to college basketball in the last 20yrs. do you agree?

Mike LaPlante

  (3:20 PM)

Jacob, why all the hate? You must be a Cardinals fan. Calipari has done a tremendous job at rebuilding KY and been successful at every stop.

Trevor Boehm Wilmette Illinois [via mobile]

Will aquille Carr be hard to stop at seton hall?

Reggie Rankin

  (3:22 PM)

Yes, he pushes the pace with his speed and quickness. He's crafty and an excellent finisher. He creates havoc on both sides of the ball and excells in transition.

John (Hawaii)

What kind of class do you think UNC can have for 2013 and how do you think their 2012 class will fare in college basketball.

Mike LaPlante

  (3:23 PM)

UNC year in and year out has a chance to have a top-5 class and 2013 should be no different. UNC's 2012 class, although it doesn't have an elite top-10 player, it is solid throughout.

Chris (St. Louis)

Between now and the start of the season, which prospect will develop their skill the most?

Reggie Rankin

  (3:25 PM)

Nerlens Noel is a great defensive player, but his offensive skill package is on the fast track and he's really starting to develop is back to the basket game, as well as facing to 12 feet.

Mike (NC)

Class of 2013 is loaded in perimeter play. Could UK end up with Jabari Parker, Aaron Harrison, and Andrew Harrison, or would they likely go to different schools due to position similarity

Mike LaPlante

  (3:26 PM)

Because of the one-and-done rule, KY always has numbers but they will likely have to rebuild again in 2013. They will always be involved with the elite players.

Thomas (Chicago,IL)

If the Bruins do end up getting Shabazz and Parker (assuming that Josh Smith loses 30-40 lbs) do you think they'll win the Pac-12 and go far in the tournament?

Reggie Rankin

  (3:27 PM)

I think they have a legit shot if they get Muhammad and Parker and would make a splash in the tournament.

Dave Telep

  (3:28 PM)

I spoke minutes ago with Greg Gathers, Ricardo's brother. He just learned of the news that the NCAA is accepting Baylor's self-imposed sanctions. That was his brother's biggest concern. Since there is no postseason ban expect Gathers to eventually sign with Baylor. We don't know when but I'm comfortable in saying that what will happen this period based on the new news.

Phil (Toronto )

Where do you think the best fit for Anthony Bennett is? He seems like he could follow in the foot steps of Terrence Jones and Florida seems so guard oriented.

Mike LaPlante

  (3:30 PM)

Bennett will be a great fit no matter where he goes. He's a hybrid 4 who can play the power game in the paint but is skilled and agile enough to play in the paint. KY and Fla. along with Wash. Oregon and UNLV all present great opportunities. I predict Florida, but I've been wrong before.

Kevin (Arizona)

TELEP!! Why did Ashley drop so much after he dominated the HS championship game?

Dave Telep

  (3:31 PM)

The reason why Ashley "dropped" was because of our season long evaluation. We had him too high inside the Top 10 but was pleasantly surprised -- OK, excited -- to see what he did in the final game of the NHSI. The reason for the drop was simple: we need to see more consistent, high-level efforts. At the level he's ranked to much is given, much is expected. We made the adjustment based on a season-long eval not one single game.

Robbie B (Trumbull, CT)

What is the latest news on the Harrison twins in the class of 2013? Do they positively have to be a package deal, and what schools look to be in the thick of things for their services?

Reggie Rankin

  (3:33 PM)

They are definitely going together based on conversations I've had with them and their father. They mentioned Kentucky, Maryland, Villanova, Arizona, Texas and Baylor.

Roger (Memphis) [via mobile]

If Cal and UK strike out on Noel and Bazz, where does Cal go next to fill the cupboards that are going to be bare?

Dave Telep

  (3:35 PM)

They would then try to revisit Tony Parker with a stronger pitch. they are also knee deep with Amile Jefferson and I think they would have to make Robert Upshaw a priority, as well as Anthony Bennett, but that would set up a huge clash with Fla. The questions is will kids be interested or offended in the uptick in interest.

Jeremy (Memphis)

What are the chances that Memphis will land another great recruiting class?

Mike LaPlante

  (3:38 PM)

I think Memphis already has a very strong class with Shaq Goodwin, Damien Wilson along with juco player Geron Johnson and if they are able to land one or two more like Phillip Nolan. They will have the No. 1 class in C-USA.

Kevin (Syracuse, NY)

What is your gut feeling on where Noel is headed?

Reggie Rankin

  (3:40 PM)

My gut is Kentucky due to the recent success of Anthony Davis and him possibly being the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft. It will be too much for Noel to turn down in the end.

Chris (St. Louis)

Did Noel make the right decision by reclassifying for 2012?

Paul Biancardi

  (3:41 PM)

Yes, because he's the nation's best player and it's time for him to move on. He needs to be challenged and it's time for him to be playing against better players.

Kyle (Murray, Ky)

How would you compare the overall strength of this years class compared to last years class and who could make the biggest difference immediately in this class besides shabazz and Nerlens.

Mike LaPlante

  (3:43 PM)

I think every year is different because strengths always change. This is the year of the big man and the biggest difference maker could be Kyle Anderson because he will improve UCLA's position in college bball immediately.

eric (clarksville tn)

Chance of TParker signing with UGA?

Paul Biancardi

  (3:45 PM)

I think that option of staying home is gaining some traction. I think he's waiting to see where Nerlens and Shabazz go and the longer it goes, I think the local school has a greater chance.

Chris (St. Louis)

Do you see any late bloomers in this class or a prospect that everyone is sleeping on?

Reggie Rankin

  (3:46 PM)

I think my sleeper is Denzel Valentine going to Mich. St. He is a a skilled point forward, very similar to Draymond Green. I think he will be an impact player for Tom Izzo because he can be moved around on offense and he can guard both wings on defense.

Steven (brooklyn, ny) [via mobile]

What are the chances for duke to land either jefferson, parker, and/or muhammad

Paul Biancardi

  (3:49 PM)

I think Duke is in the strongest position with Jefferson. He is not a force but a great complementary player. If they were going to get Parker, I would have thought it would happen by now. As far as Muhammad, we are all going to have to wait until tonight when he announces live on ESPNU at 7:30 ET.

Rasheed Sulaimon (en route to Durham, NC)

I am so lonely. What are the chances that Shabazz, Tony and/or Amile join my one man recruiting class?

Paul Biancardi

  (3:51 PM)

If any one of those guys commit, your class will be elevated. Either way there are a lot of good pieces at Duke and you will be a big reason why it succeeds.

roy williams (chapil hill nc)

How is providence have a better class when they have 2 top 100 while we have 4

Mike LaPlante

  (3:54 PM)

Who has a better class will be determined in the next two to three years. As of right now, we look at quality over quantity and Friars guards Ricardo Ledo and Kris Dunn give Providence one of the best incoming backcourts in the country.

Ian (Columbus, Ohio)

Does Ohio State have a legit chance of getting Tony Parker?

Mike LaPlante

  (3:55 PM)

PArker has been a hot topic today. He's put off his decision but with the departure of Sullinger to the NBA Draft it creates a definite opportunity for Parker. But your guess is a good as mine in terms of where Parker ends up.

Chris (St. Louis)

How good is the Adams kid going to Pitt? I've never seen him play.

Reggie Rankin

  (3:56 PM)

Adams is a tremendous player. His defense is ahead of his offense at this time and he has a great motor. Will be a rim-protector and allow Pitt's pressure man defense to thrive with him protecting the rim. Expect him to improve under Jamie Dixon.

Cam (New Hampshire)

Any update on Tebbutt and BC?

Mike LaPlante

  (3:59 PM)

Although the West Coaster has been receiving most of his recruitment from the Pac-12, BC made a hard push late, but after taking an official visit there is no word if the Eagles extended an offer. I think he will end up back on the West Coast, closer to home.

Chris (St. Louis)

If you had to give this class as a whole a letter grade, what would it be?

Reggie Rankin

  (4:00 PM)

I would give it a B. It has good versatility and there are a lot of good big men but there is a lack of point guards.

Joe (Rhode Island)

Are you hearing anything about URI's recruiting? Do you think Kaza Keane will commit to Rhode Island?

Mike LaPlante

  (4:02 PM)

Danny Hurley and his staff have hit the ground running and have been able to get involved with high quality players who are still available. Kaza Keane would be a great pickup for the Rams as he would give RI its PG of the future. Stay tuned.

Chris (St. Louis)

Of the prospects already committed, who surprised you the most with where they decided to commit?

Reggie Rankin

  (4:05 PM)

I am a little surprised, from a geographic standpint. Kyle Anderson to UCLA. Kaleb Tarczewski to Arizona. Glen Robinson (son of Purdue great Glen Big Dog Robinson) to Michigan. There are a lot of things that could influence a decision but these surprised me.

Joe (Arizona)

How confident are you that this year's Arizona recruiting class won't be a bust like last year's was?

Mike LaPlante

  (4:07 PM)

Joe, you don't pull any punches. Tell us how you really feel. I'm really confident the 2012 class will have a major impact on Arizona bball. Not only are they bringing in tremendous frontline players in Tarczewski, Jerrett and Ashley, but Gabe York is tremendous scoring guard. You can take it to the bank.

Will (Ocean Isle Beach, NC )

Any truth to the rumors of s 4th school being involved with Noel?

Reggie Rankin

  (4:09 PM)

We haven't confirmed those rumors to be true. It's a three-horse race between KY, Cuse and Georgetown. My pick is still Kentucky. But who can't use a 6-10 blocker, rebounder, finisher?

Keith (Florida)

D'vauntes Smith-Rivera was the leading scorer on the #1 ranked high school team in the nation. His Oak Hill coach has said that he was the best guard that he ever coached. How is he not a McDonald's All American and why does his ranking keep dropping on ESPN. He is now ranked # 58.

Mike LaPlante

  (4:11 PM)

SMith-Rivera has a great reputation as a tough, hard-noesd competitor who will do whatever it takes to help his team win. He should transition to the college ranks at Georgetown very well. As far as his ranking, it has more to do with other players who continue to excel and less than he did. I'd like nothing more than for him to be the next Derrick Williams from Zona.

john (denver )

any chance shabazz and noel will go to UK

Reggie Rankin

  (4:13 PM)

Yea. Great chance stepping in for Davis and Gilchrist. The Wildcats wouldn't miss a beat, but we will see is they both go to KY.

Austin (Colorado)

Who is the bigger need for Kentucky: Nerlens Noel or Shabazz Muhammad?

Mike LaPlante

  (4:15 PM)

Although Shabazz Muhammad would provide instant offense, Nerlens Noel would help more replacing Anthony Davis.

Jimmy (Hamilton)

Who is better? Jabari Parker or Shabazz Muhammad?

Reggie Rankin

  (4:17 PM)

Both have unbelievable strengths and impact the game in differnet ways. But I would take Jabari Parjer because his skill level is more evolved and Parker is three inches taller. Shabazz can only play the 3 and Parker can play 2, 3 or 4. But as a coach, I would be excited to have either.

Ron (Houston)

Has there ever been a defending national champion not get at least one Top 10 player the following year?

Mike LaPlante

  (4:21 PM)

Without going back too far. UNC got Henson, Duke got Irving, UConn got Drummond and Kentucky might continue the trend tonight with Nerlens or Shabazz.

Jeff (Cincinnati)

Should Ohio State fans be concerned if they end up with a class with zero commitments?

Reggie Rankin

  (4:22 PM)

I don't think that will happen. I think OSU will finish strong now that Sullinger has declared. But if they don't sign a 2012 player, expect them to explode in 2013 with a few elite prospects.

Jimmy (Hamilton)

Would Andrew Wiggins be #1 rated prospect if he came out now?

Mike LaPlante

  (4:23 PM)

Jimmy, that's a great question. Don't know if he'd be No. 1 but he's in the conversation. He's an outstanding perimeter athlete who continues to improve every time we see him.

Greg Brann (Covington KY)

Do you feel Kentucky will repeat if they lose Davis and Kidd Gillchrist. With the addition of Noel or Muhammad?

Reggie Rankin

  (4:26 PM)

I think it will be much more difficult to repeat but they would make a deep run in the tournament.

Mike LaPlante

  (4:26 PM)

They will have the talent level to repeat.

Reggie Rankin

  (4:27 PM)

Noel is behind Davis offensively. Both are great game-changing defenders. As far as Shabazz and MKG, Gilchrist is a winning playmaker and Shabazz is a better scorer.

Moderator

  (4:30 PM)

Thanks for all your questions, tune in tonight at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPNU to see where Nerlens Noel and Shabazz Muhammad decide to go. Keep checking RecruitingNation for all your HS basketball recruiting needs.