Preseason ranking represents a new day for a program that has proven to be a force in College Basketball. This is a new feeling for Saluki fans who are used to getting the Rodney Dangerfield treatment... no respect. Let's take a trip down memory lane to October 2003 when the Salukis were picked to finish 5th IN THE MVC! We know how the story ended that year. Matt Painter and Co. destroyed the Valley with a 17-1 record en route to becoming ranked #15 in the nation.
Speaking of Matt Painter his contract has been extended by Purdue through the 2012-2013 season. Painter led his Alma Mater to a 22-12 mark last season and won a first round game in the Big Dance. No salary number has been released yet but it's safe to say Coach Painter has done pretty well for himself. Painter's contract extension will help him on the recruiting trail because he can go into the living room of high school kids and assure them that he will be their head coach for all four years of their college experience.
Jamaal Tatum update- JT played 6 minutes in his first game with the New Jersey Nets summer league squad. He went 1 for 2 with a free throw for 3 points. Its a start. In other news Vince Carter has opened his home to the Nets summer league players so hopefully JT can find a few minutes to kick it poolside in his time time off.
