Luka Talk

[Hawkimus]

This is from a recent Rivals article. I'm not sure what source(s) he has but thought I'd share.



1. The NBA Draft is set for Oct. 15. Whose decision to stay or go will have the biggest impact on the 2020-21 season?
https://MichiganState.rivals.com/commitments/basketball/2017

Bossi: Whether Xavier Tillman
stays in the draft or makes a return should play a pretty big role in how good Michigan State can be next season. At the end of the day, the Spartans will still have Tom Izzo and that counts for a lot, but with
Cassius Winston
gone to graduation Tillman’s return would be just as important for the leadership and maturity he could provide. He’s married with kids, so it’s understandable why he could remain in the draft. But the Spartans would be even more formidable than they already figure to be if he returns.


Evans: I am not sure anyone would have as greater impact on the college game if he returns than
Luka Garza
. Not only does he transform Iowa into arguably the best offensive team in the country, but should be the hands down favorite to win the national player of the year award. It seemed that Garza was a likely withdrawal just a few weeks ago, but now it appears as if he is legitimately pondering the move to the professional ranks. In doing so, Iowa’s ceiling for success is lowered and the Big Ten potentially loses a true Final Four contender.


McDonald: I’d go with MaCio Teague
for Baylor. The Bears had a real shot at making a run this year before the tournament was canceled and they could do it all over again if he decides to come back. There would be a lot of firepower on Scott Drew’s roster if he’s back on campus, and it could be a tough hole to replace if he’s not.

 

[N8dogg99]

Mannnnn, I hope this Luka comes back. He's such a hared worker, he may work himself right into a decent draft spot.

 

[Kurt Warner]

He gone

 

[TheTruthTheWholeTruth]

A team would really, really, really have to fall in love with Luka for him not to come back to Iowa. I don’t see that happening.

 

[Ballhawk1221]

Looks more and more like we’ll have a college basketball season, so at least that helps Iowa’s chances of getting Luka back. I doubt that Luka has changed his position that he needs a guaranteed roster spot to make the jump. So the question is, are any NBA teams willing to offer him that?

 

[Hawk_4shur]

I'm wrong a lot on these predictions, but I still think he comes back. He's likely not a 1st rounder, is he? Plus as hard as he works he can only improve his draft status for next year.

PLEASE LUKA! One more year!

 

[anon_i8nzeu2gbf0ba]

I've been shocked before, but I would be shocked if Luka turns his back on his Hawkeye teammates for a problematic NBA opportunity that would be even better next year.

Luka didn't get to play in the Big Ten tournament last year. He didn't get to lead the Hawkeyes to a Big Ten regular season title. He didn't get a shot at the NCAA Tourney and the Final Four. He didn't get to play a full season with JBo. He didn't get a chance to show off his sky hook or his defensive improvements....

I see dozens of excellent reasons for Luka to take advantage of his senior year but only one mediocre reason not to.

If Luka comes back, he'll not only be the center of attention in Iowa City but around the country. If he made an NBA roster, he'd be a nobody. Well paid, perhaps, but still a nobody.

I understand and fully support considering your options. It's the wise thing to do. But when the analysis ends and it's time to make the decision, from here it looks like all Iowa. I hope--and expect--Luka will see it the same way.

 

[mazda1]

The longer he waits the less I like Iowa’s chances. Originally I thought he’d be back, but now I’m in doubt. I only hope that he gets honest feedback. It only takes a couple of guys to say you’re our guy and then not draft him for this to turnout badly for Luka.

If someone who they like better drops and is still available near the end of the first round then Luka is out of a guaranteed contract and can’t live a memorable senior season. As an old man it’s easy to say money isn’t everything, but when you look back those memories could be priceless.

 

[JEDN]

The reason he is waiting later is because the deadline has been extended. He still hopes to have some on site workouts for teams.

 

[SCHawkFan]

The longer he waits the less I like Iowa’s chances. Originally I thought he’d be back, but now I’m in doubt. I only hope that he gets honest feedback. It only takes a couple of guys to say you’re our guy and then not draft him for this to turnout badly for Luka.

If someone who they like better drops and is still available near the end of the first round then Luka is out of a guaranteed contract and can’t live a memorable senior season. As an old man it’s easy to say money isn’t everything, but when you look back those memories could be priceless.

Why? He is hoping to get in person workouts with teams for honest feedback. That is the reason guys declare for the draft. He has until August to withdraw from the draft. Give him the time.

 

[Kurt Warner]

He gone

I was actually kidding, I think he comes back and iowa goes to the final 4

 

[KuwaitHawk]

If he comes back, I’ll go to the closest casino and drop some $$$ on Iowa to win the B1G and the National title.

 

[IowaHawkeyeFBnBB4Life]

It’ll be a major kick in the balls if he doesn’t come back.

 

[NevadaHawk]

He returns.

 

[michael.nelson311]

The reason he is waiting later is because the deadline has been extended. He still hopes to have some on site workouts for teams.

Hope you are right

 

[Knothole Hawk]

Hope you are right

I think he stays, but I really believe he's going to be a solid NBA player if he were to leave. Hoping he stays.

 

[r448chlpo]

I guess it comes down to money on the one hand and having a heck of a lot of fun and some great memories on the other. (The fun and memories I refer to, are for both him and us!) He would be a Hawkeye legend if he stays... but maybe, he already is.

 

[anon_qczsdwtnv6esw]

Obviously he has a lot of options to consider but one that he also has to think about is 'I return to Iowa for one more year and what is the chance that THAT basketball season is canceled?' But if there is a chance the college season is canceled, than that means the pro seasons wouldnt be looking too good either so that would impact him being paid even if he is on a G league team. 4th year at school means probably a degree.....so theres that!

 

[Legend12]

I doubt that Luka has changed his position that he needs a guaranteed roster spot to make the jump.

He and his group have been open to discussions about the G League or a 2-way deal and he is no longer telling teams he needs to be guaranteed a roster spot. I have zero idea which way he is leaning or what exactly it would take, but they have changed that initial stance as talks with teams have progressed.

 

[MarkRules]

He and his group have been open to discussions about the G League or a 2-way deal and he is no longer telling teams he needs to be guaranteed a roster spot. I have zero idea which way he is leaning or what exactly it would take, but they have changed that initial stance as talks with teams have progressed.

Yikes. That is what I feared. I still would put the odds on him coming back over 50%, but I would have been almost 100% 2 months ago. I don'y blame him one bit for looking at options and doing what is best for him, but every day that passes is a day he did not finalize a decision to come back.

 

[TheTruthTheWholeTruth]

Luka should do what’s right for Luka BUT would you rather play in the G league or possibly become the all time leading scorer/rebounder at Iowa with the possibility of leading the team deep into the tourney.

 

[DodgerHawki]

Luka should do what’s right for Luka BUT would you rather play in the G league or possibly become the all time leading scorer/rebounder at Iowa with the possibility of leading the team deep into the tourney.

I get what you are saying. But Garza did not grow up an Iowa fan. And while being the all-time scorer/rebounder is nice, it's not money. If team(s) are saying right now you can start earning money playing basketball, either on a 2-way deal or even more overseas, that is tough to turn down. You have a finite period of time to earn money playing a sport, and returning to Iowa lessens that time by one year.

It's why you almost never see college baseball players return for senior years if they are drafted. Not never, but close. They are ready to proceed with the ultimate goal of getting to MLB.

 

[TheTruthTheWholeTruth]

I get what you are saying. But Garza did not grow up an Iowa fan. And while being the all-time scorer/rebounder is nice, it's not money. If team(s) are saying right now you can start earning money playing basketball, either on a 2-way deal or even more overseas, that is tough to turn down. You have a finite period of time to earn money playing a sport, and returning to Iowa lessens that time by one year.

It's why you almost never see college baseball players return for senior years if they are drafted. Not never, but close. They are ready to proceed with the ultimate goal of getting to MLB.

Understood. My world view has changed significantly in the last 20 years. The money is nice but achieving legendary status in on another level imo. He has a much higher chance of achieving that at the collegiate level than he does in the NBA. Regardless, I’ll always be a huge Luka fan.

 

[Legend12]

Understood. My world view has changed significantly in the last 20 years. The money is nice but achieving legendary status in on another level imo. He has a much higher chance of achieving that at the collegiate level than he does in the NBA. Regardless, I’ll always be a huge Luka fan.

Being a Legend in Iowa might not mean that much to someone who isn’t likely to reside in Iowa.

 

[TheTruthTheWholeTruth]

Being a Legend in Iowa might not mean that much to someone who isn’t likely to reside in Iowa.

i was thinking more collegiate legend than just Iowa legend but your point is solid.

 

[LUC8]

Luka certainly has an opportunity to become a legend in college basketball not just Iowa basketball history.

 

[CleteyColgate]

Luka should do what’s right for Luka BUT would you rather play in the G league or possibly become the all time leading scorer/rebounder at Iowa with the possibility of leading the team deep into the tourney.

Luka seems to be very motivated to play in the NBA next year. And he should be focused on that. Still yet to be determined what happens. Wishing him all the best.

 

[Mohawkeye]

Being a Legend in Iowa might not mean that much to someone who isn’t likely to reside in Iowa.

You'd be surprised. There are a lot of us expatriates and beyond that Big fans. In professional life (outside of sports) legendary status would be a huge boost to whatever career you choose.

 

[BlackNGoldBleeder]

He and his group have been open to discussions about the G League or a 2-way deal and he is no longer telling teams he needs to be guaranteed a roster spot. I have zero idea which way he is leaning or what exactly it would take, but they have changed that initial stance as talks with teams have progressed.

Do you believe the upcoming college basketball season is in doubt? Would that explain his change in thinking?

 

[2432Hawk]

If 2020 holds to form, I'm not expecting to see Luka back in Iowa City his Fall.

Latest kick in the nuts. Picked up new car in Chicagoland on Tuesday, proceeded to hit deer near Galena on way home with less than 150 miles on the new car

 

[WorldSeriesChamps2015]

 

[SSG T]

Luka should do what’s right for Luka BUT would you rather play in the G league or possibly become the all time leading scorer/rebounder at Iowa with the possibility of leading the team deep into the tourney.

If my goal was pro basketball and I have the chance to go play pro basketball, I'd choose the pro basketball.

 

[DewHawk]

If 2020 holds to form, I'm not expecting to see Luka back in Iowa City his Fall.

Latest kick in the nuts. Picked up new car in Chicagoland on Tuesday, proceeded to hit deer near Galena on way home with less than 150 miles on the new car

I agree about 2020 Garza decision and car accident really sucks

 

[hawk-i bob]

I have no idea what Luka ends up deciding either (on or prior to Aug 3rd)....my source says there has not been a change, G-League is not an option.

 

[Obviously Oblivious]

If 2020 holds to form, I'm not expecting to see Luka back in Iowa City his Fall.

Latest kick in the nuts. Picked up new car in Chicagoland on Tuesday, proceeded to hit deer near Galena on way home with less than 150 miles on the new car

Oh dude! Sorry to hear about that. Makes a grown man want to cry.

I’m still leaning that Luka returns. He seems to really enjoy his team and the college experience at Iowa. Now make it happen please!

 

[Legend12]

I have no idea what Luka ends up deciding either (on or prior to Aug 3rd)....my source says there has not been a change, G-League is not an option.

Then Frank has lied to at least 3 NBA teams.

 

[hawk-i bob]

Then Frank has lied to at least 3 NBA teams.

OH Chad...you blew the Bohannon transfer thing out there for a long time..how did that work out? You see people say many things (players included) that one (meaning you) can decipher how you deem (and/or your groupy friends)… did JBo (with the help of others) think about a transfer??...'sh*t' not many players don't...and it really become news when kin' speak for you (you fell into it).

So let me ask you ..did Luka turn down a pretty lucrative deal from Europe?
Did Frank tell at least 3 NBA teams Luka would go thru the G-League?..

and the big question...did Frank directly tell you this?....or maybe one of your 'staff' groupies?

 

[BlackNGoldBleeder]

OH Chad...you blew the Bohannon transfer thing out there for a long time..how did that work out? You see people say many things (players included) that one (meaning you) can decipher how you deem (and/or your groupy friends)… did JBo (with the help of others) think about a transfer??...'sh*t' not many players don't...and it really become news when kin' speak for you (you fell into it).

So let me ask you ..did Luka turn down a pretty lucrative deal from Europe?
Did Frank tell at least 3 NBA teams Luka would go thru the G-League?..

and the big question...did Frank directly tell you this?....or maybe one of your 'staff' groupies?

I hope you're right, Bob.

Luka has got to do what's best for him, and I'm sure he will, but I guess I would be surprised if he passed up his senior year for a G-League stint. I took JBO and Weiskamp coming back to mean they were gearing up for a special season that would include Luka, after he went through the formal process of testing the NBA waters. Unless Luka is concerned with how COVID affects the upcoming season, I have a hard time believing he leaves unless an NBA team makes him an offer he can't refuse.

 

[hawk-i bob]

I hope you're right, Bob.

Luka has got to do what's best for him, and I'm sure he will, but I guess I would be surprised if he passed up his senior year for a G-League stint. I took JBO and Weiskamp coming back to mean they were gearing up for a special season that would include Luka, after he went through the formal process of testing the NBA waters. Unless Luka is concerned with how COVID affects the upcoming season, I have a hard time believing he leaves unless an NBA team makes him an offer he can't refuse.

I don't 'know' anything as to what Luka will end up doing..
You are correct G-league is not an option...he can get that anytime (like next year).
and if he wanted to turn Pro..he could have signed a pretty nice $$$ contract in Europe.

Lots of unknowns that I'm sure the family is exploring...I don't think the basic Luka statement has changed..

"I'm not going to go in without 100 percent confidence of being able to make a roster," Garza told reporters after declaring for the draft. "I don't see any interest in ending up in the G-League without any deal or anything like that. That's something I'll be able to get after my senior year.

"I want to hear, also, if it’s not the time to make that move, I want to hear the improvements I need to make, to be ready for that next step after my senior year," Garza said. "So, I’m looking for a lot out of this process, and I’m looking forward to it. It would have to be a real opportunity."

The last time I looked Luka projects somewhere in the 90's for an October NBA draft.

 

[TreyVega]

Luka certainly has an opportunity to become a legend in college basketball not just Iowa basketball history.

To your point I remember watching Danny Manning while growing up and how he carried his team so far