-I think Paolo-to-Duke is less an indictment of Cal's use of bigs and more the reality that K's current Duke staff is just absolutely killing it. I never pegged Jon Scheyer as an ace recruiter, but he's being given most of the credit for their recent hauls. Nate James is growing a reputation of being a terrific bigs coach. Nolan Smith is active in social justice matters. There's something to be said for surrounding yourself with former players who are still young enough to connect with kids. I'd love for Cal to do the same, but he just doesn't have any Kentucky kids to choose from yet. Ulis would be a great start.
-Something seemed off with that Huntley-Hatfield kid once he left IMG (an unbelievable prep experience) for some no-name "academy" in Pennsylvania. Never passed the smell test. Kinda feels like Chris Walker 2.0
-Two "political" takes that aren't really political takes:
1. Andy Barr's commercial about losing his wife is really well-done. But it also aired four times in the 45 minutes I was watching TV with my folks last night. And his opponent has a very powerful ad, too. Barr just needs to change up the messaging, and sooner rather than later.
2. As stupid as political conventions are (and I'm only switching over during NBA breaks), the way both parties have done them this year is still miles better than the usual "show old people dancing to Fleetwood Mac while balloons get smacked around" gamut. Would much prefer candidates presenting TEDTalk-style speeches on certain topics (economy, foreign policy, etc.), then be asked follow-up questions by a panel of journalists (yeah, I know). They'll go back to the old way ASAP because having thousands of people there is much better for the local economy (counterpoint: PROTESTS), but still....ideally, this is the way to go.
-You all know that my mom has been battling a form of Alzheimer's for a number of years now. Her form of it was always more related to vision than dementia, essentially rendering her blind. But last night was the first time it reared its head as straight-up dementia. She was really confused about my dad, almost like she didn't know him. It must come and go, because a few minutes later she was okay again. But still....DIAF, Alzheimers.