How do you think KU is set up for next year, btw? I didn't put them on my list (though they could be added, my main point was there's a huge group in the middle after the top few teams imo), but it seems like other than Peterson ya'll didn't add that much.
I agree with you though with your take. I would much rather have a Yaxel than the bigs we signed (though JQ could be that tier if he's healthy).
A lot of KU fans are in panic mode, but it's mostly the usual chicken littles who think the sky's falling because they haven't been a top 2 seed in a couple years.
KU's b-ball budget is limited right now for several reasons, including that they're building an expensive new football stadium, investing much more in football, and paying two coaches huge salaries. After the stadium's built, I think they'll be up there with Duke, Kentucky, etc in NIL, but right now they're just not. Probably not even close. Also, I think they were caught off guard by players' asking prices this year. They weren't expecting every good player to be looking for 3-4 mil.
The staff is doing what they can with the budget constraints, but it's caused them to miss out on players like Williams and Sarr, and it's kept them from even getting in the door with others. They've had to spend carefully, but I like what they've done so far. If they'd landed Williams or Sarr, I'd be feeling really good about the roster. As is, it feels like they need one more impact player.
But even with an unfinished roster and some question marks, Odds Shark has KU top 10 in odds to win the title, just behind teams like Florida and BYU (Kentucky's #6). I think a lot of fans are underselling what they have. The entire roster is athletic (far more than the last few years), and the majority can pass and create.
Tiller and Elmarko Jackson are major question marks. Both are former 5 stars and Tiller was considered one of the top players in his class before getting injured. Hard to predict how they'll bounce back from their injuries. The staff seems to expect more from them than most fans do.
Melvin Council is basically a Tyshawn Taylor clone. Really like what I've seen from him. I think he and Dawson are underrated. Most sites have Tre White ranked highest out of the transfers, but he's the one I'm least excited for. Should be a solid role player though.
A lot will depend on just how good Peterson is. The ball's going to be in his hands a ton. Self thinks he's the most talented and NBA-ready player he's ever had and I think that's probably true. I expect him to have a much bigger impact than Wiggins, Josh Jackson, etc.
They could use another shooter. I'm hoping they have enough to land Avdalas from Greece. Hell of a prospect, and he can probably be had for cheaper than what Williams/Sarr were offered. Not sure where they stand though.
