So there is good news and there is bad news. Let’s get the bad news out of the way. A press conference advisory email that was sent out from UofL on Tuesday says that Gorgui Dieng will in fact participate in the Senior Day ceremony on Saturday.
Rick Pitino said on Monday night in his post game press conference that he has been encouraging Gorgui to participate in Senior Day because he will be putting his name in the NBA Draft following his junior season. Pitino also said that Dieng will not sign with an agent and will return if he’s not being projected as a first round pick.
So, here is the good news. Among the three players were listed as being a part of the Senior Day ceremony, center Stephan Van Treese was not one of them. SVT is listed as a senior on the roster and is in his fourth year with the school, but missed all but two games last season. Before the season started, Pitino stated that this would likely be Van Treese’s last year with the program.
Because he appeared in just two games for Louisville in 2011-12, Van Treese qualifies for a medical redshirt. Per the NCAA, a medical redshirt may be granted an athlete who appears in fewer than 30% of his or her team’s competitions (with none coming after the midway point of the season).
If Gorgui Dieng does end up going pro, having a guy like Van Treese back in 2013-14 would be huge for Louisville.
March 5, 2013 at 9:43 pm
Siva, Gorgui…..who’s the 3rd player?
March 5, 2013 at 9:44 pm
Mike Marra
March 5, 2013 at 11:18 pm
This is the most depressing thing iv heard in a while. I can only imagine the heights we could have achieved with him next season.
March 5, 2013 at 11:37 pm
Lifelong Cards fan… SVT will be a difference maker next year… We run into a team like Michigan St or Gonzaga in the tournament he might be that difference maker this year… His physical presence and rebounding is dominant… One of my favorite guys on the team!
March 6, 2013 at 4:15 am
I really hate the thought of Gorgui leaving but love the thought of SVT staying. Not only is he Big Hustle, but he knows Pitino’s system and that alone is huge. Mango, Akoy, Montrezl and even Zach Price can learn a lot from SVT. I look at this like CRP is using him more as a teaching tool to our younger, less experienced players.
March 6, 2013 at 8:19 am
I hope we can keep him for one more, I never see mention of his quick outlet passing, he is obviously very aware of who is where to be able to send it out that fast. He has been one of my favorites for some time, we are lucky that he came back to us this year.
March 6, 2013 at 9:33 am
Gorgui will most likely NOT be a first round draft pick so expect him being back next year.
March 6, 2013 at 10:43 am
Final 4 or better I GURANTEE Gorgui goes 1st round. Without question! Are you not watching the same player I have been over the 5 games? Absolutely dominant in the post and improving every game. Monster on the glass, shot blocking. To think Gorgui wouldn’t go 1st round after a deep run is retardation!
March 6, 2013 at 5:38 pm
I hope that they both return!!!!! Both players are definitely what defines the attitude of this team with their hustle and dedication on and off the court. I wish both the very best in life and give my upmost appreciation if they choose to leave early. My only question would be why if you win it all!!!!!