Wojnarowski might be great at what he does in the NBA, but that article read like sour grapes. For the first several years of Coach K's involvement with Team USA, it was widely thought that it was hurting Duke, not helping. They started to get some one-and-dones with Irving, but in reality, they've had 3 one-and-done players (not counting anyone from this year) since Coach K took over Team USA: Irving, Rivers, and Parker. Okafor and Jones might do it this year, but other programs have had many, many more.
He also talked about how Duke has practically "buried" Carolina in this time. Again, it wasn't very long ago when Carolina looked like they were burying Duke. National titles in 2005 and 2009. Harrison Barnes choosing UNC over Duke seemed huge at the time. It was one more big recruiting loss for Duke. It turned out that Duke won the title that same season, and looked poised for another run if not for the Irving injury the next year, but up until then, Carolina had the clear advantage on the court and in recruiting.
Yes, Duke has had some recent successes, including this year's great class. It's not K's first great class, but it is certainly his best since he's been with Team USA. Conversely, he's had many years where he's had maybe one decent prospect in a class. He has one great recruiting haul and now Team USA is a decided advantage? Really?
Finally, OK, he made a trip out to speak to the U-19 team. Talked to the players for a few minutes. Who coached that team? Who coached all the other U-19 teams? Do those coaches have an unfair advantage?
There were more points in that article that can be debunked, but my rant is long enoguh already. Woj, you do good work, but your article this time read quite hollow.
