Last year was a forgotten year for Freshman big man Deniz Kilicli. Forced to sit for two thirds of the season, he never really hit his stride. This summer he's getting work with the Turkish National Team, and garnering lots of local attention in his home country. Check out this video (it's in Turkish, for the most part, with subtitles). Some are staying he's being forced to stay and play, and Huggs gives this quote, though it's hardly bursting with enthusiasm.
↵↵↵"Our coaching staff spoke to representatives of the Turkish National Team, and we are fully aware of his participation for Turkey this summer." says Huggins. "Deniz was not forced to stay and play for the national team. Deniz and the Turkish National Team have always had and will to continue to have our full support. Deniz will be back in Morgantown later this summer.”
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Hey, I'm all for the Turk working out and competing against international competition. It helped Butler last summer, and the Turk definitely needs as much experience as he can get. He may not face the raw athleticism he sees in the Big East, but my guess is that he'll be matched up against cagey experienced players who will try to make him pay for even the smallest mistake. I'm counting on this guy to be an impact player from day one next season, so here's hoping this is a step in the right direction.
↵Besides, he's got to work off that seven pound meatball sub from Mario's FishBowl, right?