Texas committing “recruiting suicide” with Ron Holland situation

In the latest episode of The Hawg Talk Podcast, Bart Reid joined as a guest. The crew would discuss the results of the NBA Draft Combine, Razorbacks recruiting situation and some of the 2024 prospects breaking through instate.

One of the more interesting takes is the Ron Holland and Texas situation. There is no doubt that Arkansas is trying to pursue the Duncanville, Texas native but cannot until he is released from his letter of intent.

What is the holdup? Why hold a player against his and his families interest? Reid said that the Longhorns basketball program is committing “recruiting suicide.”

This situation won’t be resolved until Texas decides to be the big boys that they claim to be. The situation will affect their recruiting from now on because they’re holding Holland hostage.

”You cannot hold a players letter of intent to transfer in this type of environment,” said Reid.

An environment where things have been cancelled and not allowed to recover. Or, seeing these types of instances being held over their head.

Why not let the number one player in the country go if he so desires? It’s not due to the fact that you’ll have face Holland if he decides to commit to Arkansas. Unless the Razorbacks and Longhorns meet in the postseason that’s the only time they could potentially face off.

It does impact their recruiting and an ability to build trust between the coaching staff and player.

”They’ll never live this down,” says Reid. “When they walk into a living room they have to answer to mom’s and dad’s from now on as to why you held up a player after a coach leaves?”

Even if Holland did sign to Beard and his staff it doesn’t make it right. Things change and feelings change and this doesn’t seem like a good ending for Texas.

”That’s common practice to release a player after a coach leaves. Players sign for coaches not universities,” said Reid.

So, if Texas does let him out of his LOI what’s next? Where would he fit if he decides to commit to the Razorbacks?

“He’s a great fit for Arkansas….he fits in the system well. At 6’9 210 pounds once he adds to his frame he is dangerous and a NBA type talent,” said Reid.

If you would like to catch more to the interview with Bart Reid, click this link.