[Jim Vanderhoof]

Man what great memories. Jerry Chambers was a 6’4 center that averaged close to 40 a game in the NCAA tournament. Merv Jackson had a great ABA career. Einar Nelson field house days. One team not mentioned was Mike Newlin and the late Kenny Gardner team. Jim Mahler was the center. That team opened the Huntsman center around 1969.

1998 team was special. Vranes Chambers era was fun to watch. The NIT with Sougerner,Burden, Menatti. Andrew Bogut, Jackson tournament run. Judkins and Metheny along with Jeff Jonas.

I was fortunate to see all these teams play and since my dad had played for Jim Williams at CSU we got to go in the Colorado State locker room after the game. I hope AJ can bring back the once proud and sold out Huntsman center.

[Jim Vanderhoof]

With the honor code they should be good at trimming bushes (hair) and only deal with 1 kind of grass. Not to mention popcorn popping on the apricot tree at football games.

[Jim Vanderhoof]

Unfortunately I have to give up my tickets. I’ve had season tickets since the early 70’s. Just can’t justify the cost being retired on a fixed income. If anyone wants them I can work something out otherwise I will lose them for good. W13 row 48 4 seats together one being on the isle. Nice to get in and out for bathroom or food run.

[Jim Vanderhoof]

Dawes would be #1 on my list to retain. Potential 20pt 10reb guy. Reminds me of Shawn Marion. AJ will fine tune his game.
#2 Wahlin: hard to find a 6’9 player that can move and run the court. He can develop a corner 3 and an occasional drive to the basketball. He is a the ultimate role player and local kid.
#3 Mike S: many might disagree but he has ball handling skills as a 2 or 3 and can break down the defense if the offense stalls. He has a nice 3 pt and mid range game. Add a little strength and learn to finish at the rim he could find a role on this team.
#4 Asur: If he was 3 or 4 inches taller he would be my #1. Struggled a little against bigger players. A good low post scorer and threat. Improved his foul shooting and can get to the line. Can’t over pay for him.

Point guard, shooting guard and a rim protector that can rebound along with more depth is our portal needs.

[Jim Vanderhoof]

We need depth at Qb. Dampier will get beat up running the ball. Ficklin has similar skills to Dampier. A much different offense than we’ve seen in the Ludwig era. A less complicated offense should make it easier for the young QBs to grasp and get ready to play sooner. The spark has been lit on offense. If the Oline buys in it could be a fun year. Instead of trying to over power everyone use our speed and athleticism to spread the field.

We’ll soon find out if Ludwig’s offense was holding us back or we just don’t have the talent to compete.

[Jim Vanderhoof]

Thanks Ute dub. Great interview. What parent wouldn’t want Alex to coach their son.

[Jim Vanderhoof]

Omaha I don’t know what others charge and in my case it doesn’t matter. If I had the money I would renew and support the program. It’s not a matter of what’s fair but can you afford the tickets or not. In my financial situation it’s not worth it. We used to go to 8-10 concerts a year now 1 or 2. I don’t think I’m alone. At some point the price out weighs the enjoyment gained and best use of that money. I’m not bitter or mad because I understand the economics of having a strong program. I’m still an avid Ute fan and will always support the program.

[Jim Vanderhoof]

My tickets went from 99 a seat per season to 1500 per seat per season. My 4 seats went from 400 to 6000. I get its supply and demand. I’ve had a fabulous run. I’ve been able to go with my daughter for over 20 years and now my grandson for 10 years. I’ve seen the lows of the early 70’s and the highs of Alex Smith and Cam Rising era. Many bowl games including Fiesta and Sugar. My two regrets: not going to either Rose Bowls (cost) and not going to the 1998 final 4 in basketball (cost). I’ll still be following and cheering but will miss the excitement of being there in person. I hope Whitt can right the ship and we can have a fun winning season again.

[Jim Vanderhoof]

Utegator this was once a competitive basketball program. The Huntsman center was packed and the teams played hard and smart. The portal and NIL has become a money grab. If you don’t like your pay check or role leave. Can’t blame the players for going after a bigger pay day and playing time.

It’s sad college sports has now become professional. If you think the fans have it bad. Look at the donors who pay the players millions of dollars on a year to year basis with little or no return on their investment. Constant pressure to give more so we can get an 18 year old entitled athlete to play one year.

[Jim Vanderhoof]

I agree he’s done. He can’t score or shoot foul shots. We need a more athletic center. He would be a great backup for 10 minutes a game.

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