#1 - This isn't the Big South.
#2 - We play and expect to win against quality OOC opponents. Feel free to check our track record over the last 5 years. We are something like 7-1 against the SEC during that time. And what I'm about to say I hope it doesn't come across as rude, but in order to continue building our program and winning at a level we are accustomed to, it's going to require a talent-level that McDevitt did not consistently sign at UNCA. Of the 4 transfers to P5 programs, weren't 2 of them signed by the previous head coach before he took over?
I hope he can pull some rabbits out of a hat. Maintaining this recruiting class was crucial not only because it was the best class ever, but because we lost SO much this year. We basically lost our "Big 3" in Potts, Walters, and King.
Fagan, Buffen, and Curry were literally the replacements for those 3. A guard, a forward, and a center. Just what we lost, and all mega talented as well. It was literally a perfect signing class not only from a talent standpoint, but from a needs standpoint as well. That's why our fan-base was literally going ape-$hit about the importance of keeping these kids.
There's no way on earth McDevitt even comes close to replacing Fagan & Buffen (Unless they re-sign).
I'm calling it now. Next 2-3 years are going to suck @$$.
When you stated your first point that C-USA isn't the BigSouth then there was no point in comparing what CNM did in the BigSouth- right?
But obviously you're not going to get a high number of these types of players in the Big South- but somehow UNCA has had a disproportionate share compared to other BigSouth programs over the years so you should think good thoughts in that regard. CNM and Sean Dixon have direct recruiting signatures on 3 of those 4 kids and 5 of 6 if you want to count current studs MaCio Teague and John Baehre. With Nick's departure I'm guessing both those guys will transfer now and both will have P5 interest..
Let me set the record straight on the 4 transfers as I know their details..
1. Hornsby had NC State in his ear when Eddie Biedenbach left for UNC Wilmington and while CNM was an Associate HC. Hornsby (Oak Hill) was recruited by Brett Carey also an Oak Hill alum and he was heavily recruited by CAA/A10 programs. NC State wanted Hornsby but they offered Trevor Lacey (Alabama) first.. once it became public in CNMs first week as the HC at Avl this was written in the local paper here 'Bruce Hornsby said he wanted to keep the option open of his son returning to Asheville, but McDevitt said that isn’t possible. “That wouldn’t be in the best interest of Keith and it wouldn’t be in the best interest of UNC Asheville,” said McDevitt.' So it was the right and tough choice to not allow Hornsby to shop around and keep the UNCA program as a back-up..
2. Rowsey- guy was the 2nd leading scorer in Virginia HS history when he graduated. 5'10" guard overlooked by everyone.. in 2 seasons at Avl scored 1244 points. Overbearing father would chide him after games CNM & staff would console him- P5 programs started talking to dad and then he transferred to Marquette. Would have easily been a 2500 point scorer but he did that in HS so he moved for a bigger challenge. Scored 1087 points in 2 years at Marquette.. 2331 pts in his college career.
3. Dylan Smith- 6'5" guard- late signee who by the way filled Rowsey's vacated scholly.. Made league all-fresh team, instrumental in win at Georgetown and in league play.. after the NCAA tourney appearance was basically full of excuses for transferring.. originally said he was leaving to be closer to home (Alabama kid) due to an ill family member.. Clemson, VA Tech, and Arizona were notably in the mix and he ended up in the desert..
4. Dwayne Sutton- Kentucky Mr. Basketball finalist out of HS, Big South tourney MVP.. 2nd leading scorer & top rebounder his freshman year.. mom works for U of Louisville.. had desire to play for the hometown team and his Dad and others convinced him to come home- Mom was irate and tried to get him to stay at Avl.. ended up walking-on at UoL but since mom is employed it's still a free ride..
UNCA is a tough sale for kids with limitations abound.. It's a cool town but it's tough to attract athletes for a school that only values athletics when it's convenient... MTSU doesn't have those problems and has a financial commitment to athletics that makes UNCA look like the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse in comparison..
You keep Curry yet lose the guards.. it is far easier to find guards late than it is quality big men... CNM found Dylan Smith late to replace Rowsey so it can be done..