I imagine the 2010-11 season kicked off today, which is interesting because the 2009-10 season hasn’t yet ended.

What I mean is that the first two interviews for next season’s Blue Ribbon Yearbook were conducted today–VCUs Shaka Smart and UNCWs Buzz Peterson. It kinda gets me re-fired up to start into the background work. (For the unwashed, Blue Ribbon is by far the most comprehensive preseason guide. You get 1,500 words on every CAA team.)

A few quick hitters, and I’ll do likewise when I catch up with everyone. Of note: you’ll get a handful of interesting notes and quotes, but you must wait until the guide comes out (and buy it!) to get the whole enchilada.

Peterson, on Keith Rendleman:

“He’s one of the kids that’s oozing with potential. We have to work with him on his skills inside–give him a consistent shot inside that he can count on and be comfortable with, but I think as long as he has confidence he could have a big year for us.”

Peterson, on Trevor Deloach:

“We need him to be more of an offensive producer for us. He can be a warrior on the boards. That three spot is kind of a bandit—he’s the guy that has to give us the oomph at the three spot. I always say your position is who you can guard. That kid can guard a two, three, or four.”

Peterson, on freshman Tanner Milson:

“I love coaches kids and his dad is one of the most successful coaches in Texas. His desire to want to be something is incredible. I’m looking forward to the days coaching him.

Smart, on his first season:

“I like that we got better as a group, and most of our players got better individually. If you go strictly by numbers, we had a terrific year. Every CAA game we won was by double digits, and every loss except Northeastern was by three points, five points, they were all close. We were right there.”

Smart, on Brad Burgess:

“He’s the number one guy that can benefit from consistency. He has a good understanding and his body is better–he’s actually grown to 6-6 in shoes. Even (Brad) admits he needs to be more assertive and get his shots, or at least opportunities.”

Smart, on Ed Nixon:

“He was our best player in ball screen situations. We want him to work on handling the ball so he can have it in his hands (more often).”