--According to Lawrence Journal-World, stud basketball recruit Darrell Arthur will announce his college pick at noon on Monday. Arthur is the highest rated high school senior who has yet to pick a school. Kansas and Texas were thought to be the favorites a few months ago. Arizona tried to make a push but Arthur never visited Tucson. He did visit LSU this past weekend. The Tigers are now thought to be the favorites. But the guys over at Phog Blog are still hoping the Jayhawks are in the running. If Arthur joins Julian Wright, Brandon Rush, and Mario Chalmers next season the Jayhawks along with Florida and North Carolina will be national title favorites. There are even internet rumors that Baylor is still a possibility. Arthur has the talent to contribute next year no matter where he lands.
--Coach Barnes is heading to the Persian Gulf. This sounds pretty cool. Regardless of your personal thoughts on the war, we can all rally around supporting our troops. Barnes and a dozen others will participate in "Operation Hardwood II." They will coach the best military basketball teams in a tournament. The event was started last year to "bring morale, welfare and recreational services to the United States military personnel and their families." Also attending are coaches Kelvin Samson, Tom Izzo, and Gary Williams among others and Fox Sports broadcaster and model Leann Tweeden.
--Still no word from former OU signee and uber recruit Damion James. James is said to be deciding between Arizona, A&M, and Texas. As shocking as this sounds, the Aggies are the favorites according to Rivals.com. I've said this before but, with PJ Tucker's most likely departure for the NBA, we need another frontcourt player like Arthur or James. BON will keep you updated.
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