In doing some research behind those players declaring early for the NBA draft, I have come upon the following theory:
EVERYONE IS SCARED OF THE RISING BYU PROGRAM!
Just taking a closer look at the players who have declared, reveals an underlying theme. Take for instance,
Khalid El-Amin: Reported to be concerned about being "schooled" by Cougar star PG Montague. Says El-Amin, "I can handle guys like Scoonie Penn and Mateen Cleaves, but I'm petrified that this Montague dude would drop 30+ on me if we ever meet. I'll take my chances on the NBA."
Erick Barkley: Apparently his problems with the NCAA are not what have forced him into the NBA. According to sources close to the St. John's program (Big $$ boosters), Barkley was concerned that his draft position would plummet next year because of Mr. Lyday at BYU.
Marcus Fizer: The Iowa State star has reportedly chosen to sign with an agent and declare out of fear that his draft position would also drop with the stellar BYU seniors (Lyday/Wesley/Cooper) that will be eligible after next year. He also mentions that he does not want to risk an early end to his career from a chance meeting with Wesley's elbows.
Although Chris Mihm has not yet decided whether to return to school, he is being heavily persuaded by all close associates to turn pro now. Even his coach, Rick Barnes has stressed to him the importance to enter the draft as the best big man in the country. He has been told that there is no guarantee that he will be on top next year, with Eric Nielsen improving and that stellar recruiting class at the Y (Dawes/Pinegar). Mihm is seriously considering signing with an agent.
Also, the UCLA tandem of Moiso and Rush are contemplating early entry claiming that they would not have a chance to be the western power most believe, since the Cougars will get all the publicity.
Rumour also has it that the biggest reason for the mass exodus from the New Mexico Lobo program is not due to Coach Fran, but a feeling amongst the players that everyone will be playing for 2nd place next year, due to the rise of the Cougars. Even Kaspars Kambala is thinking of going pro in Europe to avoid the Cougar juggernaut.
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