Joe Dumars' son to join Bulls

Jordan Dumars, son of basketball legend and current Detroit Pistons executive Joe Dumars, orally committed to USF on Sunday night. He is the second player to join the Bulls' Class of 2009.

Dumars is a 6-foot-6, 230-pound wing who attends Detroit Country Day , alma mater of former stars such as Chris Webber and Shane Battier. Dumars told the Times Monday morning he's a Michigan kid, but felt most comfortable in the recruiting process with USF coach Stan Heath.

"I'm  a Michigan kid, so it's not like I grew up rooting for USF,'' he said. "But coach Heath knows my dad pretty well and he knows a lot of the Pistons people. He came and saw me at the beginning of the fall and he really liked me. We have stayed in contact since then. And me being so comfortable with him, that's what really helped me make the decision.''

Dumars said throughout the recruiting process, Heath, a Detroit native, was always honest, which is important to him in a coach.

"I know he's a straight shooter,'' Dumars said. "He's not going to just tell me anything. He'll develop me into a really good player and he's a great coach. . . . I knew I was comfortable with him, so there was no sense waiting. I can get it off my mind and focus on working my game.''

Comments

[The Champ]

So I'm Bill O'Reilly huh? Spinning things, Bahhahahahahahah!!!!!!!!

BTW there were some changes but I'm not telling.

[Reality]

Champ, tell Dad no hard feelings. I didnt mean for you to have to be the bad guy and bad mouth the assistants, because Stan couldn't keep the crew together.

You can spin this however you want, but tell Dad he better start winning. Aris Williams deserves just like every player does to have his commitment honored. Even though the scholarships are year to year, you need to short of a felony renew these kids. They committed to your school and doing what Stan did to Zaronn Cann will come back to haunt you.

[The Champ]

When I was writing about Hansen and Samuels messing up and possibly about to be replace it was accurate at the time.The Simmons mess up by Hansen was true and Samuels not making the coaches on the road aware of how much time they had left to spend out there was also true.

Stan Heath taking more recruiting responsiblities because of things he was not satisfied with was correct at the time.Those are things that I was made aware of by a source that has been on the money just about every time for 2 years.This person said it would be OK to post some of the things about the basketball program that wasn't available to the regular fan.All this source asked was it be put on this blog run by G.A. and the name of the source be protected.

Now things change and at this point the coaching staff and their responsiblities will remain intact for this upcoming season and it should with so many newcomers on the roster.

I will tap into this well again when the time is right, but posters such as AGW, DJ, Dave W, Bull, G.A. have done a great job on this blog the last couple of months.Frankly I haven't found a need to ask for anything new lately.

[G.A.]

I have no reason to think Heath is changing his staff for next season.

[Bull Hooper]

count me as one who still believes that Aris could be a good player. He is a great guy, he's got great size, and he looked promising when he played in the fall of 2006. He has worked hard to overcome his injuries. I hope he comes back and proves himself his senior year. He would certainly not be the first USF Hoops big man to develop late in his college career.

also, for what it's worth. I was at a recent USF Athletics function. Reggie Hanson was also there, and after speaking with him, I got the impression he's not leaving USF. Not saying "Champ" is wrong when he assures us Hanson and Samuels are leaving, just wondering if it's possible he's mistaken just this once.

[G.A.]

Barring an unexpected turn for the worse, I have every reason to believe Aris Williams will be part of the '08-09 Bulls.

I think he has considerably more invested in USF basketball than any of the posters here, however passionate they may be as fans. I don't think anyone at USF has seen Aris play healthy, so I don't know that it's entirely fair to judge him based on what he's been able to do up to this point.

When I've talked to him, he's been optimistic about his senior year, excited about getting himself healthy and aware of the confidence that will come with that. To want to see him step away from the sport he's worked hard to return to, just to free up a 13th scholarship in June, seems a bit shortsighted.

[The Champ]

Well it was early in the morning as I just got off work, so I misspelled Chris's last name.It should be Chris Grier not Chris Greer, sorry about that.

Now Chris Grier is HC of the Michigan Mustamgs/Hurricanes summer team at last check.Normally one of the more talented teams in the summer.He coached Olu, Anthony Roberson, and Jason Richardson respectively.

Olu originally from Canada moved to Flint,Michigan and stayed with Grier.There are some that believe Grier(powerful AAU coach)done this just to add Olu to the Mustangs/Hurricanes roster.I don't know if that was the case or not but things like that go on more then people think.

Don't know him personally but have seen a couple times at an AAU event.Spoke and kept going.

[DJ]

He is not an AAU coach either.

[DJ]

The Champ, Chris Greer is not shady. He's just doing is job. Do you know him? I do.

[The Champ]

Dave W wrote:
Champ- could Stan be trying to establish a pipeline to Country Day for the future? They always have some prospects. And it shouldn't be hard to convince people from Detroit to move to Tampa...

The answer is yes, but not just that part of Michigan.As we have found out Stan is well connected in Michigan and bringing Dumars aboard will without question aid USF in the recruitment of prospects from that area.Stan worked very hard to build up relationships with people associated with HS basketball starting with his days as an assistant at Hillsdale College and continuing at Michigan St.

Stan knows how to deal with people and how close to get to some of these AAU coaches such as Chris Greer, a somewhat shady individual.That relationship while it was still good allowed Stan to get Olu Famutimi to attend a terrible Razorbacks program over Duke, Memphis, and Missouri.

Think about this, if you take these regions Midwest, West, East, and South where basketball talent is found the Midwest(Michigan, Illinios, Missouri, Ohio)kids seem to be more willing to go far away from home.The Big Ten is suffering because of this.With weather being warmer here and a HC that is respected in that part of the nation, we can be very attractive to future prospects.

If we get to the point where we can pull players out states and areas such as Georgia, Michigan, NY, and DC our program will be in fantastic shape and these past years of suffering will be a thing of the past imo.

If Heath ever decides to leave USF for whatever reason the program will be very attractive and won't be viewed as the worse job in college athletics.

[Dave W]

5:40,

Your passionate defense of Aris is greatly appreciated. However, it's not an issue of "hate," but rather, of basketball. Aris past performance has indicated that he isn't a Big East level performer. Not only do his statistics bear that out, but anyone who watched him when healthy realized he just wasn't explosive or strong enough to bang in the Big East. After a knee injury, it is unreasonable to expect him to be a better player.

On the issue of adversity, it is folly to assume that those criticizing Aris haven't encountered adverse situations in their own lives. Aris parlayed his basketball skill into two scholarships (Valpo before USF). It may not be fair that he would lose his scholarship, but then again, it isn't fair that I was never offered one. Except 5'6" baseball players generally aren't offered basketball scholarships. The reason? It wouldn't be good for the program. Stan Heath never offered Aris a scholarship. When a new coach takes over, it is up to his discretion whether or not to leave players on scholarship. Zaronn Cann was only player forcibly removed by Heath, but Heath encouraged other (lesser) players to seek other opportunities. It is no different with Aris. While I extolled Aris' virtues above, I would have no problem if his scholarship was not renewed.

As far as "paying his dues," he hasn't paid crap. USF was giving him a free education (for which many on here have paid an extremely high price). On top of that free education, he was given the opportunity to pursue a sport at a level most of can only dream about. And as far as a fair opportunity, he intially went to a lower-level school. He was one of the few that transferred "up" in the hierarchy of basketball (whereas Curry, Bozemen, Saaka et. al. went "down"). That right there is more than a fair opportunity. When he entered the game, he was, to put it nicely, overmatched by Big East centers.

Don't cry for Aris. His determination to recover from several serious injuries is admirable. But that doesn't mean he deserves a scholarship. The scholarship indicates that he is useful to the team. If Teeng Akol qualifies, he simply isn't going to ever see any minutes, even if healthy. Plus, he's had his entire college education to this point for free. To his credit, he takes advantage of that by performing well in class and though I never had a class with him, we shared a major and several classmates thought highly of him. But again, that alone does not make him worthy of a scholarship.

I am now firmly in support of Heath should he decide to terminate Aris' scholarship. While it would be an unfortunate end to a disappointing career, the nature of athletic scholarships is such that it allows for unproductive players to be removed at the coach's discretion. From a basketball standpoint, Aris is not a viable player, and that is the argument that should carry the day.

____

Does anyone think I won't enjoy law school?

Enough.

Some of the comments being posted about Aris Williams are shameful.

Anyone who has played the game knows how much it takes to recover from an injury. There's the physical recovery. Then, there's the mental recovery. Aris Williams has battled back on both fronts and is now ready to contibute to the success of the team. He is healthy, and can play. See for yourself before you pass judgement.

I salute Aris Williams for his courage in the face of such adversity; and I hope he's given a fair chance to play.

Further,I think he deserves a "FAIR" chance to play and prove what he can do on the court. He has earned at least a "fair" chance because Aris has paid some pretty hefty dues. He has had to battle not only the injury, but the hate that has been heaped on him.

Everyone says it's not personal. But place yourself in his shoes and see if it's not personal. See how you would feel if you had to endure all the nasty, insidiously evil, and hurtful remarks being made about him. See how it feels to be treated so poorly. Then, see if you can keep your wits about you in such a negative atmosphere and hold your head up and have confidence in yourself.

By the way, has any of you detractors seen him play lately?

Enough is enough

You talk about taking things away from Aris and think that it's OK. You make all kinds of conveient excuses like: he got a free education, he's smart, "he can afford it", and so on. Shame on you all. You really need to know that his education was not free. He paid for it with blood, sweat and tears.

You all need to wake up and realize that this is about more than basketball.

It's about life. It's about teaching and motivationg young men to be positive, constructive, and creative citizens in the world at large after basketball. Fairness should be a main component. Respect should be another. And, last but not least, we should never be so quick to judge another person; or speak ill of another person.

In conclusion, let me state what I know for fact. All that Aris has gotten out of the current situation is: in certain places, situations, environments, and atmospheres, life sucks; and that he has to use all his power to overcome adversity. He knows that there are more sincere people in other places and parts of the world. He knows that he has been mistreated and slandered. He knows that he must remain positive and endure in the same manner that the great Joe Lewis and others like Jackie Robinson did. He knows the sting of humility. He knows that he will become a better person for having survived.

He has suffered the slings and arrows long enough. I say, let him play. Give him the chance to prove what he can do. What is everybody afraid of? Is it that all the haters would be proven wrong?

Signed,

Enough is enough

[Aris' Biggest Fan]

So Aris should walk away from his scholarship because he is a 5th year grad. Hmmm...I wonder how the NCAA would feel about that. Or better yet because he is smart or maybe because he can afford it he should pay for his education. Why...Is it Aris' fault that he got injured? Is it Aris' fault that fifty percent of the players sought another approach. Better yet perhaps you would like to be let go from your job so that someone younger could replace you...nothing personal just thinking about the companies future. And by the way what exactly are the coaches plans for the future...looks to me that several players will play dual roles. Your reasoning is circular at best. Trust me I don't take it personal, I have been reading this commentary for quite a while. Ya'll have been exposed as the haters that you are and when you try to make sense of it, it becomes even more revealing.

[AGW]

We are also in the running for Indiana guard Jordan Crawford. He has USF in his top 6 along with Oklahoma, Baylor, VA Tech, Cincinnati and Xavier. He would be a nice addition as well. He is a 6'4 195LBS. guard that averaged 10PPG, 2.5APG and 3.5RPG as a freshman at Indiana last year. This just shows Coach Heath's connections in the Michigan area. He was a 3 star player out of high school.

[Dave W]

Ari, you should tell the players that there is nothing to do in Tampa besides studying and practicing!

Champ- could Stan be trying to establish a pipeline to Country Day for the future? They always have some prospects. And it shouldn't be hard to convince people from Detroit to move to Tampa...

[Dave W]

My opinion on Aris is dependent on Akol's test score. Aris sets a really good example for the younger guys, and if he can work his way back from an injury to be able to play at all, the younger players could learn from his toughness. Plus, he'll help keep them in line during road trips (we can't be sold on Mercer's maturity level). Without Akol, Williams offers that leadership plus 5 fouls for Thabeet and Blair. With Akol, though, I think that we'll have enough big bodies. And as great as leadership is, it isn't worth a scholarship. He has to be close to graduating, so maybe he can afford it and stay as a walk-on, OR maybe Stan can find a way to add him to the staff for some money. If Pena would join the team to replace Aris, then that's a bonus.

I'm not sold on the ethics of the situation, but if Aris is agreeable to any arrangement, then it isn't a problem.

[AGW]

This season is one where we just would like to win more conference games than last year. Hopefully gel by the end of the season (when Mercer and probably Gilchrist come aboard) and people find their roles. This is also a year to develop players and work on their skill sets. That's what this season is all about. Next season is where you will hopefully see the results.

[AGW]

I don't think we are hating on Aris because of his skill level. The fact of the matter is he is an upcoming senior that has not contributed up to this point due to injury. He may or may not have the talent to play a significant role this season, but even if he is capable he should not play. He is a SENIOR! We need to play our freshman if we want to be competitive next season. Because next season is where we might be able to make a dent in the BE. Aris has graduated from USF. He does not figure into Coach Heath's long-term plans, its that simple. Its not that he can't play, its that he should be moved to make way for the rebuilding process. If USF has the opportunity to land a Dago Pena, he should be removed from his scholarship. He is very smart, he could get placed on an academic scholarship or ask for a medical scholly. USF has to think about the program's future success. That's all! Nothing personal.

[Paul Wall]

^ And people like ari

[Ari Hinkelberger]

Hey Dumars,
Welcome to the Harvard of the Hillsborough. We have a decent selection of women, some good places to go chase skirt, and couple nice bars.

Do me a favor though... Stay away from rat holes like Peabody's.

[Ari's biggest fan's biggest fan]

Yeah....yeah.

[Aris' biggest fan]

You people crack me up with the hate you have for Aris. USF doesn't owe him anything...right. The Bias that has been shown towards Aris is unbelievable. What it says loud and clear to any recruit or recruits parents is don't get injured because recovery is not possible if you are not one of the chosen ones. All you haters need to go to open gym if you really want to see who needs to go or stay. Stop being so damned judgmental about a kid you have rarely even seen play. Until you have walked in the shoes that Aris has walked in these past few years you have no right to judge him or even make suggestions as to what path his future should take. All you are is an anonymous blogger,don't get it twisted. It takes the heart of a lion to deal with such hatred and still remain positive and rise!

[The Champ]

A few more things.Dumars plays on the same team as Donovan Kirk, remember him? He visited USF and was a prime target but he gave a verbal to Miami recently.

It is good to have friends in high places where there are a lot of resources for USF to possibly tap into sometimes in the future.Pretty sure old Joe will want to help out his good buddy Stan in the future with his son being taken care of down here in the beautiful south.Happens all the time in college recruiting.

[The Champ]

WE should definitely give a serious look to trying to sign Pena.USF offered him a scholarship earlier so maybe there is still that same kind of interest on USF's part.A lot has changed in recruiting since Pena originally committed to FAU, but once again you can never have to many shooters and Pena can get going from outside and when he was hot he became nearly impossible to guard, at least in HS.

Freddie Riley, Ramon Galloway, and Keith Clanton are the only other guys that are currently on the USF recruiting rader that interest me.I always wanted Riley and Clanton and Galloway are big time as well.

BTW I think Williams needs to go and likely will at this point.I mean USF has been good to him.He got a free education so the school doesn't owe him anything now.

[The Champ]

Well you can never have enough shooters especially with the 3pt line moving back.We have two '09 commitments and both can stroke the 3.From what I understand Jordan Dumars has to drop about 20lbs if he is going to be a high major player that he obviously was recruited to be by Heath.That should be obtainable with some added conditioning by him in his senior season and when he arrives on campus here.

Our slashers and post player should love the additions we are making to the team.With the floor spread as teams have to respect our shooting ability, there will be that much more room for our players with 1-on-1 capabilities to operate.Without question it makes us better offensively.

[Growler Bull]

With all the football & basketball recruiting news, Greg picked a bad time to take a vacation :)

[Kurt Rambis]

Hey Coach Heath...

Why didn't you sign my son?!?!

[AGW]

Now, that we have another recruit for 09'we can look at another 08' prospect that just came back on the market. Dago Pena has asked for his release from FAU. It should be granted by Tuesday and he is looking to attend a school in a bigger conference. I know we are out of scholly's, but I'm not sold thta Aris Williams wil be playing next season or for that matter Akol. Pena is a smooth shooting small forward. Small forward is a position of need for USF. Hopefully, he will re-consider USF and take a visit to Tampa. At that time Stan Heath can evaluate him and discuss what options are available to him and Williams or Akol. I hope he makes it to Tampa and Williams is granted a medical release or waiver. Pena would be another great addition to our incoming class.

[Ari Hinkelberger]

Have to give credit to Stan Heath on the recruiting front. Guy seems like he is signing the entire AAU nation.

[Ari Hinkelberger]

Have to give credit to Stan Heath on the recruiting front. Guy seems like he is signing the entire AAU nation.

[Dave W]

That's pretty cool. Maybe this'll be similar to the Dell/Stephen Curry connection. How tall was Joe? I vaguely remember him, and I think he was signficantly shorter than 6'6". Plus, I like the meaning behind the name!