ZS: How do you describe the around the clock labor that goes into recruiting?
JG: Recruiting is the lifeblood of any good program. It is a 24/7/365 day job that has a lot of components to it.
But, at the end of the day, it's about finding the right guys who fit your program and culture and then working as hard as possible to build that relationship and make them see that you care about them as people first, players second.
ZS: Is there any particular method to gaining the upper hand in area as heavily-recruited as New York/New Jersey?
JG: It's all about relationships--need to build a network of recruiting contacts and connections who are comfortable sending players to your program because they know their players will be pushed to get better in the classroom and on the court.
The second is being able to evaluate what type of players can be successful at Iona College. We have been able to find a niche of players who fit into our culture and style of play.
Because of our success in both winning championships and developing pros, there has been a buzz around our program. We have tried to build on that and continue to try and attract players who can be successful in our system and have the work ethic to fit into our high expectations culture.
ZS: How would you describe and assess the improvement of Rickey McGill from his freshman year to his sophomore year and what niche do you envision for him moving forward?
JG: He is really starting to learn decision making from the point guard position and has improved as a shooter. I think he has a chance to take another huge step forward this off-season as we will rely on him to become one of our leaders as an upperclassmen.