Pope at practice

I caught up with Herb Pope after his first practice with the Aggies on Friday morning. The story will run on Sunday because we have to get some photos of the man in action at practice Saturday, but I took a couple things from our conversation that I thought were interesting.
As you know, Pope was cleared to practice earlier in the week with a waiver. NMSU believes he will be cleared entirely so he can play in games before the season starts. He just talked about the frustration shared with Jahmar Young and Wendell McKines, who have also yet to practice. The three were limited in their individual work as well, forcing them to get in the gym by themselves while their teammates prepare for the season without them.

At the end of our conversation, I asked him where he was in his recovery from his incident last spring. He said he was 90-95 percent back and the only reason he wouldn't say 100 percent was because he hasn't played in a game yet.

Overall I was very impressed with the young fella. I had heard how articulate and smart he was, but he was quiet on the few occassions I spoke with him on the phone, but after talking with and seeing him in person, I can see why the rest of the country was after him. I look forward to seeing him on the court, as I know all Aggie fans do.

JG