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SportsLine.com Report
April 4, 2000

A Glance at 2001

As expected, point guard Erick Barkley will turn pro this summer after his problems with the NCAA.

It might be the best move for both the Storm and Barkley. Even if he was to stay, the Red Storm would lose almost 30 points and a little more than 12 rebounds with the departure of seniors Lavor Postell and Bootsie Thornton.

This way, coach Mike Jarvis starts nearly from scratch -- hardly a bad thing with the recruiting class he has coming in.

Point guard Omar Cook of nearby Christ the King High School could fill Barkley's shoes, while forward Darius Miles (6-9, 195) of Lincoln High in East St. Louis could play in the frontcourt right away. Also, having center Jack Wolfinger eligible will give the Red Storm some sorely needed size.

The Coach

In two seasons, Jarvis turned what had been an up-and-down program since Lou Carnesseca left into one of the country's elite. And in the next couple of seasons, he could have the Red Storm contending for a national title if all of his recruits stay put ... although his name is heating up on the NBA rumor mill.

Who'll Be Back

St. John's will return two starters in Reggie Jessie and Anthony Glover. Donald Emanuel is also back and could see more time up front. We'll see if freshman guard Heath Orvis could be more than the bit contributor he was this season.

Who's Gone

Postell and Thornton are huge parts of this team, almost irreplaceable. Chudney Gray could play three positions and became a sixth starter. Barkley was a brilliant floor leader and a solid defender, but he was also a bit of a distraction.

Key Newcomers

• PG Omar Cook (6-1, 190): A McDonald's All-American, this product of nearby Christ the King will bring a solid all-around game to campus next season. He can shoot from the outside, play tough defense and make highlight-reel passes. He is considered one of the Top 10 prospects in the country -- and the best of a deep New York City point guard crop.
• PF Darius Miles (6-9, 195): Another McDonald's All-American rated among the country's Top 10 prospects, there has been talk of him turning pro. For now, the native of East St. Louis, Ill., is being touted as a terrific rebounder and shot-blocker. Of course, he will need to hit the weights before becoming a big-time factor in the Big East.