Podcast Title: Eye On College Basketball
Hosts: Gary Parrish and Matt Norlander
Episode Title: UConn keeps Karaban, cements top-10 status; Coward picks Duke; Alijah Arenas update; Illinois’ Euro roster invasion; Shaq is GM at Sacramento St.
Release Date: April 30, 2025
Summary
In this episode of Eye On College Basketball, hosts Gary Parrish and Matt Norlander dissect several major developments in the college basketball landscape as teams prepare for the upcoming season. From strategic roster decisions at powerhouse programs like UConn and Duke to heartfelt updates at USC and innovative maneuvers by Illinois, the podcast delivers a comprehensive analysis of the current state of college hoops.
UConn Retains Alex Carabin, Strengthening Top-10 Prospects
The episode opens with significant news that UConn has officially decided to retain star player Alex Carabin for his senior season. Gary Parish emphasizes the importance of this decision, stating, “[03:00] Gary Parish: [...] So here's my first question for you. Matt Norlander with a possible starting lineup of Silas Demery, Solo Ball, Jalen Stewart, Alex Caribbean and Terrace Reed. And a five-star freshman coming off the bench. How good can UConn be next season? And do you feel better about UConn heading into next season than you actually felt about UConn heading into this past season?”
Matt responds enthusiastically, “[08:15] Matt Norlander: [...] I feel much better about this roster than I felt about last season's roster even heading into last season.”
The hosts delve into UConn's revamped lineup, projecting a strong performance next season with key players returning and new talent bolstering the squad. Gary notes, “[05:48] Gary Parish: [...] Because of this now you've got and we touched a little bit on this on last week's show. But now that we know Caravan for sure is back in, you got a really good thing here for the Big East and for college hoops because I do think UConn is going to have a preseason top 10 standing.”
They also discuss the potential impact of Solo Ball and Terrace Reed stepping into more prominent roles, which could elevate the team’s overall performance and national standing.
Cedric Coward Chooses Duke, Enhancing Blue Devils’ Depth
Switching focus to Duke, the podcast covers the transfer of Cedric Coward, a six guard known for his shooting prowess, to the Blue Devils. Matt introduces Coward’s journey: “[21:16] Matt Norlander: [...] But this edition checks the box for me. Obviously, John Shire prioritized length at every position last offseason. He appears to be doing it again.”
Gary assesses the strategic advantage Duke gains from this acquisition, stating, “[25:02] Gary Parish: [...] So with that in mind, like, who becomes Duke's, like, prominent leader from a vocal standpoint on court standpoint, Will it be Caleb Foster? They're probably going to ask him to do that.”
The discussion highlights how Coward’s addition could bolster Duke’s preseason rankings, potentially placing them within the top five teams nationally. They also speculate on the development of returning players like Caleb Foster and Isaiah Evans, suggesting that Duke’s roster is poised for significant improvement.
Heartfelt Update on Elijah Arenas at USC
A poignant segment addresses the near-fatal accident involving USC’s Alijah Arenas. Gary recounts the harrowing events: “[33:29] Gary Parish: [...] Thankfully this isn't as bad as we had first initially seen there and then GP just. I'll toss it back to you, but let's USCL in one bucket here.”
Matt shares a personal reflection, connecting on an emotional level: “[37:42] Matt Norlander: [...] I remember thinking in that moment I would. I never understood people saying I would trade places with my kid right now. [...] it's just, I don't know this young man. I just.”
The hosts express relief over Arenas’ condition and hope for his full recovery, emphasizing the emotional challenges faced by athletes and their families.
Illinois’ Euro Roster Invasion: Building a $10 Million Team
Illinois makes headlines with its unconventional strategy of recruiting heavily from the Balkans. Gary highlights the diversity and potential impact: “[41:45] Gary Parish: [...] And this really is the first team to bring aboard five players with direct ties and to the greater Balkan region.”
Matt evaluates the implications of this approach, noting the enhanced skill set and strategic advantages: “[44:43] Matt Norlander: [...] So we don't need to try and make this happen. But I fear that this has become such a thing that's taken over the Internet, that someone's looking around and saying, I can make a whole lot of money off of this thing. Let's try and make this happen.”
The hosts discuss how Illinois’ international recruits, including brothers Zavon Amir and Andre Stojakovic, could elevate the team’s performance in the Big Ten, making them a formidable force in the upcoming season.
Shaquille O’Neal Takes on GM Role at Sacramento State
In a surprising move, Shaquille O’Neal has been announced as the General Manager at Sacramento State. Gary introduces the topic: “[48:09] Gary Parish: [...] Shaq is going to do anything with that now his son plays at Sacramento State.”
Matt humorously speculates on Shaq’s potential influence, suggesting he might leverage his wealth and connections to acquire top talent: “[48:46] Matt Norlander: [...] Like, he's not just a former basketball player. Like, this guy owns a million Papa John's and 70,000 other things. I mean, he is extremely wealthy.”
While details are sparse, the discussion underscores the intriguing possibilities of having a sports legend like Shaq in a managerial role within a college program.
Additional Highlights and Offbeat Discussions
The episode also touches on lighter topics, including the introduction of a new prospect named Chandler Bing at Vanderbilt, sparking humorous dialogues about the legacy of the "Friends" character. Additionally, the hosts share personal anecdotes about attending Kendrick Lamar’s concerts, reflecting on the cultural impact of his music and performances.
Gary and Matt conclude with a playful debate over the viral question, “100 men versus one gorilla,” showcasing their camaraderie and ability to engage with trending internet topics.
Notable Quotes
- Gary Parish [03:10]: “You were right, I was wrong. You kind of say that again.”
- Matt Norlander [08:47]: “I feel much better about this roster than I felt about last season's roster even heading into last season.”
- Gary Parish [05:48]: “Because of this now you've got and we touched a little bit on this on last week's show. But now that we know Caravan for sure is back in, you got a really good thing here for the Big East and for college hoops because I do think UConn is going to have a preseason top 10 standing.”
- Matt Norlander [21:16]: “Ain't many men in the history of this world started at the Division 3 level and then ended up a Duke Blue Devil.”
Conclusion
This episode of Eye On College Basketball offers listeners an in-depth exploration of key roster changes and strategic moves by leading college programs. Gary Parrish and Matt Norlander provide insightful analysis, backed by notable quotes and thoughtful discussions, ensuring fans are well-informed about the dynamics shaping the future of college basketball.