It's about 10:30 and most of Assembly Hall's seats are filled, except for the balcony. Eric Gordon Jr. strolled onto Branch McCracken Court a bit after 9:30 and sat down in the first couple rows behind the visiting bench around center court. Moments later, the "Er-ic Gor-don" chants went wild and he stood up and gave a wave to the crowd.
Some fans were sporting some Gordon-themed signs. One had a "welcome to the real Assembly Hall, Eric" while another had a checklist with Eric Gordon checked off and Derrick Rose - another potential IU recruit - still waiting for a checkmark.
Coach Sampson addressed the media and talked a little bit about his hopes for the season. The most interesting tidbit might have been how he distinguishes between "Most Valuable Player" and the team's best player.
"Don't ever confuse your most valuable player for your best player," said Sampson. "I don't want D.J. White to be our most valuable player. I want Earl Calloway to be our most valuable player."
More to come as the night rolls on.
