Bruce Pearl’s had better weeks. But his recruits are sticking with him.
Guards Kevin Ware and Chris Jones told the Knoxville News-Sentinel they haven’t even considered changing their minds. Despite Pearl’s NCAA woes, the Top 50 recruits like him and the Volunteer program.
“I’m still with Tennessee, and it doesn’t affect me in any way,’' Jones said."My relationship with the coaching staff is strong.’'
In fact, Friday’s news wasn’t even enough to keep one of 2011’s prize recruits off campus.
Forward Adonis Thomas - the No. 15 overall recruit - took his official visit to Tennessee during the weekend. It’s a good thing Pearl made such an impression with these recruits given he and his staff will be dealing with recruiting limitations during the next year as part of the school’s self-imposed penalties.
But again, Ware and Jones don’t seem to mind.
“I know Tennessee is the best fit for me, and hopefully it will be a good fit for him,’' said the 6-3 Ware."As for what happened with Coach Pearl, I appreciate it that he came out and was honest about the whole thing. He did the right thing in my eyes, and I’m proud to be a Vol.’'
Mike Miller’s also on Twitter @BeyndArcMMiller, usually talkin’ hoops. Click here for more.