On Keegan

When the DD heard the surprising news about the KB defection, our initial worry was that his coach-hat-wearing father pioneered the decision. Yesterday's report in the Tennessean and today's continued stories served as confirmation.

The DD would be shocked if Mr. Bell has not orchestrated this entire hoopla. We don't mean to throw him under the bus, but it just doesn't pass the smell test. Keegan seemed to love playing here, and now all the quotes about his transfer come from his father, the mouthpiece. We wish Keegan the best in the future and hope he can fulfill the NBA prophecy that his father has set out.

The DD will miss Keegan's entertaining style of play.

Two quick ancillaries:

1) Keegan and AJ had a special rapport. They were roommates, AJ spent his Christmas holidays with the Bell family, and they had a clear connection on the court. The DD does not fear another defection--AJO is in prime position for continued stardom and sitting out a year would be foolish--but we hope that Keegan's absence does not have an adverse effect on the Frozzie.

2) From an optimistic standpoint, perhaps the Dores are set to land Tinsley and/or Taylor. The DD hopes the writing was on the wall that Keegan would play behind $ Beale for two more years and develop in the shadow of one of these future stars.