This OP did make me think of what factors would affect Noel. It has made me feel better about SU's chances.
First, the whole proximity and exposure thing is in SU's favor. Over half the games at the dome. A lot more coverage in the Northeast. Plus MSG would be a nice place for family and freinds to visit. I don't think family and freinds would be going anywhere for Kentucky.
Second, quality of life for his year. He would know someone at SU. I know I would like that if it were me. It would seem to be a bigger factor than for most in that he is probably just coming in for a year.
Then, what wasn't brought up, is the family affect. The big one and done at SU, Carmelo is rock star like. BBall players come back to very warm receptions. You see former players all around the program. Even when JB leaves, SU is cultivating the continuation of this atmosphere. Everyone now knows Hop and he will continue bringing back the old players. As Orangeeyes described it, that would seem to make an impression on a lot of people. I don't know how Kentucky would compete with that. Cal's time may be limited, and lets face it, his track record suggests he doesn't care what happens after he is gone. Their stars have been so many one and doners that it seems like they couldn't establish the same feel.
And another consideration that wasn't presented is the outlook of the team for his year. SU would seem to be in better position than Kentucky. Kentucky is going to lose a ton and be an unknown. SU is going to have MCW running the show, and Noel knows he is good. SU is positioned to be good without Noel, but with him he could have his one year on a contender for the title.
Now as I look at it, I think SU has a lot more to offer. But the above analysis did not factor in the money Kentucky can throw at recruits.
