Vaught: Pope's recruiting strategy ESPN recruiting director/basketball analyst Paul Biancardi likes what he’s seen from new Kentucky coach Mark Pope’s recruiting strategy. “Every coach recruits to their personal liking. Not every coach goes after one-and-done players.
Some are comfortable recruiting, coaching and developing talent,” Biancardi said. “Others want highly recruited players to mix with a returning group and transfers. “Every coach loves retaining players but that’s just not the way it is any more.
You don’t know if a player is unhappy with his role or if it is NIL but there is no guarantee of retention. That’s why the transfer portal and high school recruiting is so important. Pope is different from (John) Calipari who is different from (Tom) Izzo.
Everybody is different.” Biancardi knows the “market price” for players is escalating due to NIL. “Players and families can ask for more if they feel they deserve it and it is up to universities to decide how much money to give out.
You can lose a player due to NIL or maybe get a player you would not normally get because of NIL,” Biancardi said. “NIL has leveled the playing field to some degree. Blue bloods still recruit off tradition but you still have to be competitive in the NIL world.
“This is a business. Guys who do not show promise and work may not have NIL for a second season. It’s a lot for parents to comprehend when people are offering so much money.
That’s why it is importan.
