Chris Mack needs to rethink his rotation

[TUXU2011]

Mack is not playing his starters nearly enough. First off, Walker shouldn't even be a starter. The lineup should be Holloway, Lyons, Dez, JRobinson, Frease. These starters should be playing most of the game only coming out for a breather for a few minutes. I think Redford and Martin should be the next players to be on the floor along with Walker. Taylor, Dee Davis, and McKenzie should be the last ones in, but for some reason Davis is playing a ton of minutes. We have the best PG in the nation. It is frustrating to see.:logo::sword::shield:

[waggy]

You're wrong. Davis needs to play.

[xuinmd]

I guess you have observed more practice than Mac

[boozehound]

Not even sure what to say about this. What has Robinson done that makes you think he should start over Walker and Taylor? If anything I think Taylor is the starter with Walker as the first off the bench, or vice versa. Taylor brings athleticism while Walker brings experience, defense, and relatively mistake free play. Robinson looks like the number 3 option at PF at this point to me.

[nkymuskie]

Mack is not playing his starters nearly enough. First off, Walker shouldn't even be a starter. The lineup should be Holloway, Lyons, Dez, JRobinson, Frease. These starters should be playing most of the game only coming out for a breather for a few minutes. I think Redford and Martin should be the next players to be on the floor along with Walker. Taylor, Dee Davis, and McKenzie should be the last ones in, but for some reason Davis is playing a ton of minutes. We have the best PG in the nation. It is frustrating to see.:logo::sword::shield:

Huh? Really? Wow...

[HuskyMuskie]

http://i42.tinypic.com/xculhx.jpg

Chris Mack is an experienced, highly-qualified Division I basketball coach. You are a fan on a message board. I not only view this thread as ignorant, but disrespectful towards the coaching staff that dedicates their entire professional careers to perfecting the recipe that gives our team the best chance to win.

[Muskie]

I said this in chat, but I love what Walker brings to the table. He does the little things and reminds me of Justin Cage. That can't be a bad thing.

Sent from my DROID X2 using Tapatalk

[gladdenguy]

When you say Jeff Robinson over anybody at this point other than Griffin McKenzie......much less Walker or Taylor I know you are smoking some good stuff tonight.

[MaurerHigh]

I actually think our starters are playing too much. For these early games, we should be testing out the new guys and giving them playing time. The playing time Davis gets now and the lessons he learns will be very valuable if there is ever a game when Tu and Lyons are in foul trouble... I'd much rather have them make mistakes in easily winnable games early on rather than in a big game down the road.

On a side note, this feels like (to me, at least) the exact opposite of the "whiners" thread. My favorite response in that thread is just as applicable here - we're 3-0. In Mack, I trust.

[Fred Garvin 2.0]

Mack is not playing his starters nearly enough. First off, Walker shouldn't even be a starter. The lineup should be Holloway, Lyons, Dez, JRobinson, Frease. These starters should be playing most of the game only coming out for a breather for a few minutes. I think Redford and Martin should be the next players to be on the floor along with Walker. Taylor, Dee Davis, and McKenzie should be the last ones in, but for some reason Davis is playing a ton of minutes. We have the best PG in the nation. It is frustrating to see.:logo::sword::shield:

Yes, have a short bench. Especially at the start of the season. We should really be hitting on all cylinders come tourney time. I say we win one tourney game in 7 years with this strategy.

[MHettel]

Maybe.....just maybe, the coach has a plan.

Is it completely out of the question that maybe the coach is wanting to see these guys in action to see what he's got?

Taylor put up great numbers as a featured guy at Monmouth, and hasn't played in 20 months. This aint Monmouth, and he wont be featured. He hasnt looked great yet but the coach gets to see what he's got in a game situation.

Robinson looks a bit lost. Coach was probably hoping to see more from him, I'm sure he's a little concerned.

But Walker looks like a glue guy. Justin Cage like in the way he contributes in little ways throughout the game. And versatile.

Tu is a lock at the PG, but we now know that Lyons can run it if needed, and Dee Davis has been pretty darn good. I usually notice freshmen PGs when they turn the ball over or take bad shots. I havent noticed Dee yet.

Martin looks like he has good size and might end up like a BJ Raymond who could end up as a shooting 3. Could he take the extra minutes at the 2?

Redford is easy to root for and will hit some daggers this year. But, he's been off. And if redford aint hitting, then Redford aint contributing. And, i suspect that knee might have played a part in his limited minutes after 3 games in 7 days.

What can you say about Wells? He's a monster.

The bottom line is that the coach is interested in one thing. Winning games. Players are earning their future minutes by what they get done in the game.

What we know.

1. We have deep talent and depth at the PG.

2. We have 2 shooters off the bench. One of which is a situational guy.

3. We have good size, and depth there too. 4 guys can play up front at the 4/5.

4. We dont even know what we have at the 3. At a minimum its an exciting freshman shows shown he's aggressive and can finish. This isnt the type of player that goes on a long slump. But, can you even IMAGINE the upside?

My guess on minutes by midseason.


Starters
Frease- 24
Taylor- 25
Wells- 25
Lyons- 30
Tu- 33

Bench
Walker- 25
Robinson- 14
Davis- 9
Martin- 9
Reford- 6

Walker covers the 3/4.
Martin plays mostly 3 a small bit of 2.
Davis gets minutes with Tu.
Redford is limited by situations. He's a zone buster, and shooter out of timeouts. He's a guy to stretch the court if the offense isn't finding ways to slash. He's a guy that some in when we need a long comeback, but NOT a guy thats in when we have a lead to protect down the stretch.

[Backyard Champ]

Personally, I'm never a fan of questioning the rotation the coach puts out there. I have no business saying what the coach should or should not do. I don't watch practice, and I don't know the players nearly enough to make that judgement.

At times, I may not understand why a person is out there, and another person is on the bench, but I'm not going to say the coach is wrong, he knows best. I've never really understood the fan that thinks they know more than the coach when it comes to playing time, and pretty much any game situation.

[rhyno2110]

I couldn't help but say how hilariously uninformed the poster who made this thread is. Its not like mack doesn't see his team everyday and knows all the behind the scenes things that take place or anything. Im quite satisfied with how things are going right now.

[xubball1993]

You're wrong. Davis needs to play.

I agree. Great opportunities for Davis to develop his basketball and leadership skills by playing behind a guy like Tu.

[xuwin]

Not even sure what to say about this. What has Robinson done that makes you think he should start over Walker and Taylor? If anything I think Taylor is the starter with Walker as the first off the bench, or vice versa. Taylor brings athleticism while Walker brings experience, defense, and relatively mistake free play. Robinson looks like the number 3 option at PF at this point to me.

Obviously a poster that only looks at offense and doesn't recognize all of the other things that Walker contributes to the game.

[smileyy]

-1

[danaandvictory]

I want an Oompa-Loompa Daddy! And I want it NOW!

[Masterofreality]

Yes, have a short bench. Especially at the start of the season. We should really be hitting on all cylinders come tourney time. I say we win one tourney game in 7 years with this strategy.

I tried to rep Freddy on this one, but the thumb of oppression is crushing my spirit.

[Masterofreality]

Andre Walker should play as much as CMack feels he should play. Does all the little things that add up to big wins. He defended both Edwards and Mavaunga well, he passes out of the post very well, he handles the ball and can start a break himself, and boxes out. If he does all that, and scores 6 to 8 per game, he is way doing his job.

As to Dee Davis, how can you forget the huge 3 that Dee confidently took and made to tie the score vs Miami? The kid is a pure point guard and may not be a big scorer, but more in the Drew Lavender mode. I know one thing, though, he gets after it on D.

[TUXU2011]

You are all retarded if you can't see this. Only one of you agrees with me and that's ok, but all these minutes to our less talented players is limiting this team's ability to win games convincingly. If you can't see this problem, then I can't help you. Because it is a huge problem

[X-band '01]

I tried to rep Freddy on this one, but the thumb of oppression is crushing my spirit.

When one poster is oppressed, another one steps forward to take his place. I'll rep Garvin for ya.

[bleedXblue]

You are all fucking retarded if you can't see this. Only one of you agrees with me and that's ok, but all these minutes to our less talented players is limiting this team's ability to win games convincingly. If you can't see this problem, then I can't help you. Because it is a huge problem

and this guy is going to be banned in 3, 2, 1.....

[waggy]

Only one of you agrees with me..

No one agrees with you.

[TUXU2011]

No one agrees with you.

Proving my point that you don't know anything......

[jhelmes37]

What? You guys don't want to take the deepest team in Xavier history and turn it into a 6-man rotation?

You guys are all idiots.

[waggy]

Proving my point that you don't know anything......

Quote who agrees with you..

[TUXU2011]

Quote who agrees with you..

The person was actually being sarcastic but I dont care who agrees or doesn't. I know I'm right I've been to every game and this team is really being limited right now. We have the talent to be the best in the nation.

[MuskieMark]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uSeuYyPDBQ What an idiot!

[Masterofreality]

You are all retarded if you can't see this. Only one of you agrees with me and that's ok, but all these minutes to our less talented players is limiting this team's ability to win games convincingly. If you can't see this problem, then I can't help you. Because it is a huge problem

Dude, we're 3-0. How do you know what guys can do unless you throw them into the fire? A All of these guys have earned Division 1 schollys so they all have some talent. Unless you play them early you have no idea how they might perform in a tougher game later. Chill the F out!

[danaandvictory]

MOR, you clearly don't understand a thing about coaching. The ultimate goal is to win every single game by as many points as possible. Also, please forward that Oompa-Loompa to me at once.

[Cheesehead]

You are all retarded if you can't see this. Only one of you agrees with me and that's ok, but all these minutes to our less talented players is limiting this team's ability to win games convincingly. If you can't see this problem, then I can't help you. Because it is a huge problem

That should tell you something. You are wrong.

I am glad your vast knowledge of 3 games is fueling your extremely weak argument.

Is this is a joke?

[Westside_D]

Mack is not playing his starters nearly enough. First off, Walker shouldn't even be a starter. The lineup should be Holloway, Lyons, Dez, JRobinson, Frease. These starters should be playing most of the game only coming out for a breather for a few minutes. I think Redford and Martin should be the next players to be on the floor along with Walker. Taylor, Dee Davis, and McKenzie should be the last ones in, but for some reason Davis is playing a ton of minutes. We have the best PG in the nation. It is frustrating to see.:logo::sword::shield:

This has to be a joke.

[PMI]

You are all retarded if you can't see this. Only one of you agrees with me and that's ok, but all these minutes to our less talented players is limiting this team's ability to win games convincingly. If you can't see this problem, then I can't help you. Because it is a huge problem

Wow.

I mean, wow. You REALLY don't have a firm understanding of the game of basketball if you think Robinson has been even close to as valuable as Walker so far this year. I'm not sure what team you're watching, but surely it can't be Xavier basketball, right? Defensively, it's not even close to being close. Offensively, Walker is savvy and does a lot of little things to help the team, and passes well. He also gets to the middle of the lane and open things up for shooters. Walker does so many things well that don't show up on a stat sheet, whereas the times Robinson has contributed, it's been on very noticeable plays like put-back dunks.

Either you must be so simple-minded and raw to the game of basketball that you see an occasional dunk by Jeff (and miss all the defensive lapses and falling asleep during plays) and miss the countless things Walker does to help this team, and come to the conclusion that you do. Or we're just all retarded.

[PMI]

Today I give thanks to the sane Xavier basketball fans, because Lord knows there are some at the other end of the spectrum too.

[Emp]

gee, second guessing a proven coach after three games. Someone must have given the 15 points vs Miami and is being petulant. In context, the lead post of this thread is more out there than the Fire Miller ranting in his first season.

Getting fired up because Xavier isnt winning "more convincingly" is the height of hubris. Enjoy the games why dont you.......

[Westside_D]

Starting someone doesn't magically make the player rebound and play better defense. He has to earn it both in practice and in the game when he gets his minutes. I hope Robinson will because he is an extremely gifted athlete and he would help the team if he improves.

Chris Mack is one of the best basketball coaches in the country. Trust that his decisions are the right ones and enjoy the ride. I think we are all pulling for Robinson to play well enough to start but he has to earn it.

Yeah TUXU2011, everyone but you is "retarded".
Knowledge for ya: If everywhere you go it smells like crap, you should check your shoes.

[X-band '01]

The person was actually being sarcastic but I dont care who agrees or doesn't. I know I'm right I've been to every game and this team is really being limited right now. We have the talent to be the best in the nation.

With all your scouting and coaching acumen, why are you just on a messageboard? You should have a resume ready for an assistant's position someplace. There's a certain school across town that could use all the help in the world right now.

[X-band '01]

I guess you have observed more practice than Mac

Coach Mack? Andy Mac? Both?

[bobbiemcgee]

Anybody with a dvr can see Walker's value to this team. He's rarely out of position, fights for the ball, makes plays to save balls out of bounds and on the baseline, makes good passes, finds guys in transition, sets good picks, plays very good defense, etc.,etc. Savvy veteran any coach would love to have. Played 30 min last time out with 1 TO. Does exactly what is asked of him. Happy to have this guy.

[madness31]

I have no issues with questioning an individual's strategy regardless of title and experience but this post is very much off base. Those that blindly believe a person is right because of their title are at risk of becoming fools and being taken advantage of.

I'm not a huge fan of the line-up and minute distribution but it has nothing to do with Robinson not starting. Robinson has a lot to learn and needs to find a way to rebound and defend. It is definitely wise to develop the bench at this point. It is also beneficial to find the line-up with the best chemistry and those with abilities that complement one another.

Wells is a monster but I would love to see him come off the bench and start Martin to spread the floor more. There may be a reason Martin is not getting minutes and it could just be a coaching style preference thing. Wells also needs to get big minutes because he is a huge talent. Lyons is getting it done too so he needs court time as well. The question is going to be how consistent Tu, Lyons and Wells shoot from deep. If they are hitting at a high percentage then starting Martin isn't as important but if Martin is a shooter and the others are not consistent then he improves the floor spacing and makes the other two on the court better.

More minutes for the starters is not a wise decision. Look at last season and you will notice Tu struggling in big games as exhaustion set in. His TOs increased and shot selection became questionable. Anything more than 32 minutes becomes a concern. This is not a problem occassionally and especially when the team is sharing the scoring load but this is not a recipe to advance deep in the tourney.

I agree with PMI that your understanding of the game is limited. I like that you are thinking and considering that the current line-up, etc may not be optimal but can't agree with any portion of your conclusion.

[Titanxman04]

The person was actually being sarcastic but I dont care who agrees or doesn't. I know I'm right I've been to every game and this team is really being
limited right now. We have the talent to be the best in the nation.

I remember a couple of times when Xavier struggled at the beginning of the year, only to turn shit around and DOMINATE when it mattered. Seeing as we're 3-0, and not going into OT with IPFW...Yea, we're ahead of the game. When you have to state that "I know I'm right and you're all retarded", then chances are you're way off base.

Please keep in mind, and this may be difficult for you, but an argument that is of any value should be able to hold it's own merits, without having the author feeling the need to debase the 99.9% who disagree.

By both of my own points, it's clear that you're an idiot. Congrats, Jack.


With all your scouting and coaching acumen, why are you just on a messageboard? You should have a resume ready for an assistant's position someplace. There's a certain school across town that could use all the help in the world right now.

My thoughts exactly.

Now, it is my obligation to inform that once again, I tried to negative rep this asshat, and alas, I forgot to click the "neg" button. So his red dots went away. Someone help me out here and punish this moron for thinking.

Sincerely,
Titan.

[Cincypunk.org]

Anybody with a dvr can see Walker's value to this team. He's rarely out of position, fights for the ball, makes plays to save balls out of bounds and on the baseline, makes good passes, finds guys in transition, sets good picks, plays very good defense, etc.,etc. Savvy veteran any coach would love to have. Played 30 min last time out with 1 TO. Does exactly what is asked of him. Happy to have this guy.

Reps. Love watching this guy play.

[TUXU2011]

I know I'm right and my point will be proved tonight and throughout the course of this season. This team has a great starting lineup, and we should use the starters more.

[TUXU2011]

He has the ability to be as good as anyone. We have the depth to give him the minutes he needs. I think he should be given the opportunity to start, who agrees?

[More Cowbell]

Why? We have enough scoring from the other four positions. We need solid defense and rebounding from the 4. Robinson has the athleticism, but he disappears for long stretches of the game.

[stophorseabuse]

Did you not realize from your last thread that this is not going to gain a lot of support. It was clearly indicated the majority of fans 1.) Don't think he should start, or even be our 2nd 4 man,
2.) Agree with Mack's decision since we don't see 95% of the basketball these guys play.

Still think Jeff should get 6-10 minutes a game, but he needs to develop a more diverse skill set. Taylor is our back to the basket 4, and Walker is the perfect compliment to our scorers all over the court. Jeff is our #4 big man.

When Kenny is on the court it is tough to also have Robinson. Kenny is limited defensively outside of the lane. Robinson may be worse than Kenny there though. If you are picking between Kenny and Robinson it is an easy choice.

He's certainly not a bad player. Hell, he would be the feature player for 50-100d1programs. This team is stacked though.

What needs to happen is Jeff embrace his role as an all out energy guy for 8 minutes or so a game. Players embracing their roles is what will get this team to a Final 4.

I'm sure we are all feeling B.S. about this poster. Stirring crap up while off work (or out of school) for the Holidays.

[PMI]

He has the ability to be as good as anyone. We have the depth to give him the minutes he needs. I think he should be given the opportunity to start, who agrees?

He's already been given the opportunity to start, and quite frankly, he's not been as productive or consistent as Walker or even Taylor. You can't have your starting 4 disappearing during long stretches on a team with so much depth at his position. I think everyone agrees that he has the ability to be as good as any of our other PFs, but potential only gets you so far. I don't know what "we have the depth to give him the minutes he needs" means. What you should say is that we have the depth to not have to give him many minutes if he's not producing, unlike last year.

Look, I know you're much smarter than our coaching staff and every other poster here, but you should maybe just consider that there's more to it than having the ability to be great based on athleticism. Keith Jackson had similar ability for us and never panned out to anything. If Jeff wants to reach his potential, he has to earn it, and so far, he's looked exactly the same as last year: flashes of extraordinary athleticism and explosiveness between long stretches of being lost on both ends and committing silly fouls. We all hope he turns the corner, and I believe at some point this year he will, but Chris Mack doesn't just award starting spots to players who should be the best at their position.

[PMI]

I know I'm right and my point will be proved tonight and throughout the course of this season. This team has a great starting lineup, and we should use the starters more.

Alright _LH.

Of course the starters (and this doesn't include Jeff Robinson) will play more as the season goes on. You explore the depth on your bench early in the year against weaker opponents. You don't seem to understand that, but I suspect you have a lot of maturing and learning to do yet. But since you know you're right and we're all wrong, I suppose we'll all just have to take your word for it.

[xnatic03]

Why aren't you a coach then? The season's long, and you need to keep all your players fresh. You don't need hockey substitution patters, but you need a bench. Walker's the type of player could have greatly used last year....someone who could grab the ball at the foul line (in a zone) and pass out to the open man outside the 3 point line. He does all the little things (i.e. glue guy) that we need. Martin and Redford stretch the defense. When Robinson's on, he's great to have in there, but his head's not in the game on defense all the time, so why start someone who can tend to be a liability on half the court?
I am pretty sure Coach Mack has forgotten 99% more basketball than you've ever known TUXU. But if you are so sure of yourself, why don't you offer your services as a temporary assistant coach for him while Coach Richardson is healing. I'm sure Mack would welcome your obvious genius....

[xnatic03]

So can we start the official TUXU2011 is the Xavierhoops genius thread?
Or the "Let's give TUXU2011 the Big Boy coaching scout badge thread"?

[Bylarkin Rulz]

Mack should keep on doing what he does; we'll be fine (better than fine).

[Titanxman04]

I know I'm right and my point will be proved tonight and throughout the course of this season. This team has a great starting lineup, and we should use the starters more.

When you start getting paid to be a coach (when any of us actually are), I'll start actually listen to you.

However, you still responded to criticism by calling us all "retarded" which thus still means you're a immature douche. sweet16 is drooling somewhere.

[XU 87]

Andre Walker should play as much as CMack feels he should play. Does all the little things that add up to big wins. He defended both Edwards and Mavaunga well, he passes out of the post very well, he handles the ball and can start a break himself, and boxes out. If he does all that, and scores 6 to 8 per game, he is way doing his job.

As to Dee Davis, how can you forget the huge 3 that Dee confidently took and made to tie the score vs Miami? The kid is a pure point guard and may not be a big scorer, but more in the Drew Lavender mode. I know one thing, though, he gets after it on D.

Good stuff. Walker does the little things that while they may not show up in the scorebook they help the team win. I think Walker has also started at the 2, 3 and 4 this year. There are probably a handful of D1 players who can play the 2 and the 4.

Dee Davis is FAST on defense. The guy probably isn't going to score a lot right now. But he contributes.

[Roach]

I know I'm right and my point will be proved tonight and throughout the course of this season. This team has a great starting lineup, and we should use the starters more.

Translation from Moron into English:

"I don't have any evidence, but I never rely on objective information in forming opinions. I rely solely on knee-jerk emotionalism. Consequently, I am free to believe that the starters should be playing more even if counter-factual information demonstrates that I'm patently wrong."

[Titanxman04]

Translation from Moron into English:

"I don't have any evidence, but I never rely on objective information in forming opinions. I rely solely on knee-jerk emotionalism. Consequently, I am free to believe that the starters should be playing more even if counter-factual information demonstrates that I'm patently wrong."

If I could rep I would, but I've been spreading it around too much...kind of like what BBC does to less than average women only minus the plethora of diseases.

[principal]

Mack is not playing his starters nearly enough. First off, Walker shouldn't even be a starter. The lineup should be Holloway, Lyons, Dez, JRobinson, Frease. These starters should be playing most of the game only coming out for a breather for a few minutes. I think Redford and Martin should be the next players to be on the floor along with Walker. Taylor, Dee Davis, and McKenzie should be the last ones in, but for some reason Davis is playing a ton of minutes. We have the best PG in the nation. It is frustrating to see.:logo::sword::shield:

TUXU2011: Back in July you didn't think Jeff should be in the starting rotation. You said:

"Who will be the starting five for X next season? Here is what I think the starting lineup should be:
PG-Holloway
SG-Lyons
SF-Justin Martin
PF-Andre Walker/Trav Taylor
C-Frease"

What changed your mind?

[TUXU2011]

TUXU2011: Back in July you didn't think Jeff should be in the starting rotation. You said:

"Who will be the starting five for X next season? Here is what I think the starting lineup should be:
PG-Holloway
SG-Lyons
SF-Justin Martin
PF-Andre Walker/Trav Taylor
C-Frease"

What changed your mind?

Good question. I think the athleticism of Jeff Robinson is too much to leave on the bench. This mixed with witnessing the play of Walker and Trav Taylor has led me to believe that we will be a much better team with Jeff Robinson manning the 4 spot. Walker just doesn't seem to make plays in my opinion and Trav is looking like a good bench guy. I also think Robinson is a great player to put opposite Frease on the post. We all have our own opinions. Take mine or leave it. I guaruntee you my side of the argument will emerge as the correct one as the season rolls along. GO MUSKIES! BEAT GEORGIA!:logo::shield::sword:

[TUXU2011]

Right now I can see that people are disagreeing with my views on this basketball team. However, after being a lifelong fan and watching almost every game, I think I know this team well. Trust me when I say that I don't just state something lightly. I have thought my opinions over thoroughly. GO MUSKIES!:logo::shield::sword:

[TUXU2011]

He's already been given the opportunity to start, and quite frankly, he's not been as productive or consistent as Walker or even Taylor. You can't have your starting 4 disappearing during long stretches on a team with so much depth at his position. I think everyone agrees that he has the ability to be as good as any of our other PFs, but potential only gets you so far. I don't know what "we have the depth to give him the minutes he needs" means. What you should say is that we have the depth to not have to give him many minutes if he's not producing, unlike last year.

Look, I know you're much smarter than our coaching staff and every other poster here, but you should maybe just consider that there's more to it than having the ability to be great based on athleticism. Keith Jackson had similar ability for us and never panned out to anything. If Jeff wants to reach his potential, he has to earn it, and so far, he's looked exactly the same as last year: flashes of extraordinary athleticism and explosiveness between long stretches of being lost on both ends and committing silly fouls. We all hope he turns the corner, and I believe at some point this year he will, but Chris Mack doesn't just award starting spots to players who should be the best at their position.

Not saying I'm smarter than Mack, but I do have a different view of how the minutes should be dispersed. Robinson isn't the only player who should be playing more, Redford should be as well. How can you just assume that Mack is always right? If he was, he would have two championships by now. I'm not dissing him. He is a good coach. But I have the right as a fan to question. GO MUSKIES! :logo::shield::sword:

[XUFAN 51795]

IMO I think Walker should start atleast until Robinson or Taylor figures things out. but Andre is such a calming presence out on the court and that is so important with how many new guys we have this year.

[ThrowDownDBrown]

No

[Titanxman04]

Good question. I think the athleticism of Jeff Robinson is too much to leave on the bench. This mixed with witnessing the play of Walker and Trav Taylor has led me to believe that we will be a much better team with Jeff Robinson manning the 4 spot. Walker just doesn't seem to make plays in my opinion and Trav is looking like a good bench guy. I also think Robinson is a great player to put opposite Frease on the post. We all have our own opinions. Take mine or leave it. I guaruntee you my side of the argument will emerge as the correct one as the season rolls along. GO MUSKIES! BEAT GEORGIA!:logo::shield::sword:


I'm still waiting for you to even take back calling us all "retards".

Stating your opinion and then saying, "I'm right" and calling us all names, is not only childish, it's a little sad. Do us all a favor...stop posting.

Your douchery isn't over-shadowed by the fact you throw on "GO MUSKIES" at the end.

[PMI]

Good question. I think the athleticism of Jeff Robinson is too much to leave on the bench. This mixed with witnessing the play of Walker and Trav Taylor has led me to believe that we will be a much better team with Jeff Robinson manning the 4 spot. Walker just doesn't seem to make plays in my opinion and Trav is looking like a good bench guy. I also think Robinson is a great player to put opposite Frease on the post. We all have our own opinions. Take mine or leave it. I guaruntee you my side of the argument will emerge as the correct one as the season rolls along. GO MUSKIES! BEAT GEORGIA!:logo::shield::sword:

Glad you're so confident, but you still are failing to understand that Jeff Robinson has to earn his role and minutes, not just inherit them because he's the most athletic. Sure, we're all entitled to our opinions, but given that you think Walker has not been good and Taylor hasn't been playing harder and with a higher motor than Robinson, my opinion is that you aren't comprehending the games at a very high level.

You may be right that Jeff Robinson will emerge as the starter, and if you just said that, you would not have drawn many arguments, but as of now, he has clearly played like our third best power forward. I will say one thing, if there's an argument for putting Robinson in the starting lineup so far, it's that he should be taking the jump balls. That is one area where he's clearly in front of the others, but right now, he's trailing in the far more important aspects of the game. I hope he gets there because I agree that he has the most upside. But as I'm sure the coach would tell you, he's got a lot of improvement to make before he's a deserving starter.

[Emp]

"I...........I........... I............ " Briefest of pauses. "And furthermore, I'm going to start another thread JUST about ME"

One megalomaniac per board, please. Where is that iggie function when I need it.

[Muskie]

Do you really need three threads saying the exact same thing?

Sent from my DROID X2 using Tapatalk

[More Cowbell]

How quickly will TUXU2011 get banned?

[TUXU2011]

I'm still waiting for you to even take back calling us all "retards".

Stating your opinion and then saying, "I'm right" and calling us all names, is not only childish, it's a little sad. Do us all a favor...stop posting.

Your douchery isn't over-shadowed by the fact you throw on "GO MUSKIES" at the end.

I am sorry that you took offense to that. I didn't mean to anger people on here, I just was frustrated that people were criticizing my opinions. GO MUSKIES!:logo::shield::sword:

[RealDeal]

How quickly will TUXU2011 get banned?

If I knew how to set up a poll that would be a good one.

[Titanxman04]

Right now I can see that people are disagreeing with my views on this basketball team. However, after being a lifelong fan and watching almost every game, I think I know this team well. Trust me when I say that I don't just state something lightly. I have thought my opinions over thoroughly. GO MUSKIES!:logo::shield::sword:

1) Stop starting a new thread based off a pre existing thread.

2) Please stop thinking. Your mind is faulted. The board agrees. Thanks.

3) I am a lifelong football and basketball fan, but never played on a competitive level of any note. Thus, despite having my own opinions, I tend not to call out an individual (Mack) who is being paid a HELL OF A LOT OF MONEY to coach a team thats way above my understanding of the game. If your biased, delusional opinion actually had any merit, I have a strong feeling you would be coaching instead. However, your limited opinion of Walker and inability to actually see the value he brings to the team, is what lessens your opinion.

4) I recognize that there is little to no chance to sway your opinion, and to be perfectly honest, thats fine with me. I don't claim to be more intelligent, comprehensive, and enlightened than others very often... This is the exception. Titan > You.

[TUXU2011]

1) Stop starting a new thread based off a pre existing thread.

2) Please stop thinking. Your mind is faulted. The board agrees. Thanks.

3) I am a lifelong football and basketball fan, but never played on a competitive level of any note. Thus, despite having my own opinions, I tend not to call out an individual (Mack) who is being paid a HELL OF A LOT OF MONEY to coach a team thats way above my understanding of the game. If your biased, delusional opinion actually had any merit, I have a strong feeling you would be coaching instead. However, your limited opinion of Walker and inability to actually see the value he brings to the team, is what lessens your opinion.

4) I recognize that there is little to no chance to sway your opinion, and to be perfectly honest, thats fine with me. I don't claim to be more intelligent, comprehensive, and enlightened than others very often... This is the exception. Titan > You.

Try swaying my opinion with actual facts, not just that Walker is a leader, rebounder, blah blah blah....I would be glad to consider your opinion if you actually presented some facts to consider.

[BMoreX]

Try swaying my opinion with actual facts, not just that Walker is a leader, rebounder, blah blah blah....I would be glad to consider your opinion if you actually presented some facts to consider.

We'd love that from you too.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

Right now I can see that people are disagreeing with my views on this basketball team. However, after being a lifelong fan and watching almost every game, I think I know this team well. Trust me when I say that I don't just state something lightly. I have thought my opinions over thoroughly. GO MUSKIES!:logo::shield::sword:

http://theuniblog.evilspacerobot.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/nick-cage-fuck-youuu_o_GIFSoup.com_1.gif

[muskienick]

Try swaying my opinion with actual facts, not just that Walker is a leader, rebounder, blah blah blah....I would be glad to consider your opinion if you actually presented some facts to consider.

There are three games worth of Walker "facts" and you haven't seen any of them. Why should anyone believe that you would see (or understand) any other fact(s) that are equally clear to 10,249 fans (+ a top-flight D-1 coaching staff) but seemingly not to you?

[TUXU2011]

We'd love that from you too.

Ok sure....
RBS. PTS.
Fri 11/19 vsIOWA W 86-73 25 6-7 .857 0-0 .000 3-3 1.000 2 0 1 0 5 0 15
Tue 11/16 vsIPFW W 76-66 27 4-7 .571 0-0 .000 3-4 .750 6 1 1 0 4 1 11
Wed 1/19 @ST. BONAVENTURE W 79-65 23 6-7 .857 0-0 .000 0-0 .000 4 0 0 1 4 1 12
Tue 2/22 vsLA SALLE W 100-62 27 8-10 .800 0-1 .000 6-7 .857 1 0 1 2 3 1 22

[Snipe]

I think we need more threads about me.

[Titanxman04]

Try swaying my opinion with actual facts, not just that Walker is a leader, rebounder, blah blah blah....I would be glad to consider your opinion if you actually presented some facts to consider.

Walker doesn't have the big numbers. It's pretty well established that he's the "Glue Guy" of the team. Considering that everyone's response to your TWO other threads on the same subject said the same thing, that's fact enough.

In my experience as a coach, the difference between our good teams and great teams, have always been said "glue guys" who do the little things, allow the stars to shine, and bring up the other role players to the caliber expected of them. Walker is that exact player. The boxing out, screens, bringing the ball up the court... Those things don't show up with stats. I don't expect every one of my starters to score 3 goals a game and average a bunch of assists. The guys that I put on to start, a lot of them do everything right.

However, this shouldn't be news to you, if you actually READ the other 60+ posts in your OTHER TWO THREADS.

Plus, I've already said that I don't really care if I sway your opinion. I won't lose any sleep over you or any other asshat on this board (well, maybe BBC...the son-bitch haunts my dreams).


We'd love that from you too.

If I could rep you, I could. Then again, I guess we're all just retarded and don't understand his "logic".

Those who do not accept logic, cannot be conquered by it.

[Titanxman04]

Ok sure....
RBS. PTS.
Fri 11/19 vsIOWA W 86-73 25 6-7 .857 0-0 .000 3-3 1.000 2 0 1 0 5 0 15
Tue 11/16 vsIPFW W 76-66 27 4-7 .571 0-0 .000 3-4 .750 6 1 1 0 4 1 11
Wed 1/19 @ST. BONAVENTURE W 79-65 23 6-7 .857 0-0 .000 0-0 .000 4 0 0 1 4 1 12
Tue 2/22 vsLA SALLE W 100-62 27 8-10 .800 0-1 .000 6-7 .857 1 0 1 2 3 1 22

You've picked FOUR games over the course of FOUR months as to prove your theory? You know there's over 30 games in a season, right?

For Robinson to get his minutes, he has to be consistent...if only more people said something in those other two freaking threads.

I could put stats up for four games in a season where Caudle looked good too, but that doesn't mean he'll be one of the greatest centers of all time.

[TUXU2011]

Walker doesn't have the big numbers. It's pretty well established that he's the "Glue Guy" of the team. Considering that everyone's response to your TWO other threads on the same subject said the same thing, that's fact enough.

In my experience as a coach, the difference between our good teams and great teams, have always been said "glue guys" who do the little things, allow the stars to shine, and bring up the other role players to the caliber expected of them. Walker is that exact player. The boxing out, screens, bringing the ball up the court... Those things don't show up with stats. I don't expect every one of my starters to score 3 goals a game and average a bunch of assists. The guys that I put on to start, a lot of them do everything right.

However, this shouldn't be news to you, if you actually READ the other 60+ posts in your OTHER TWO THREADS.

Plus, I've already said that I don't really care if I sway your opinion. I won't lose any sleep over you or any other asshat on this board (well, maybe BBC...the son-bitch haunts my dreams).



If I could rep you, I could. Then again, I guess we're all just retarded and don't understand his "logic".

Those who do not accept logic, cannot be conquered by it.

Right, a "glue guy". Shouldn't the best five be starting though? Andrew Taylor was a glue guy, and a good one coming off the bench. Same with Josh Duncan. Why can't Walker do that same thing this year?

[Titanxman04]

Right, a "glue guy". Shouldn't the best five be starting though? Andrew Taylor was a glue guy, and a good one coming off the bench. Same with Josh Duncan. Why can't Walker do that same thing this year?

Didn't Duncan stop starting due to lack of effort in Miller's view..and then Duncan stepped in and started dominating? Duncan carried us against West Virginia down low, matching Joe Alexander step for step and then some.

Walker is the best guy. Re-read your other freaking threads, dude. People other than yourself actually posted some excellent responses that would have me only repeating what they've said. I don't want to get banned for plagiarizing PMI and others.

I'm done with you, bro. Someone arguing with an idiot makes them only one thing (and no, it's not a retard, you dumbass). I'm above you (which is really sad). I'm moving on.

Thanks a lot. Nice try. Next question.

[Titanxman04]

I think we need more threads about me.

Haha, we already have enough threads about you. Come check out my map of Ohio, by the way. I cut out Columbus and half of Cleveland, but it still counts, right?

[whiteyxu]

You know how to reveal yourself as an egotistical tool?

1. Make baseless comments and accusations towards the team and any poster who disagrees with you
2. Start threads to get people riled up about it
3. Create a poll about yourself

Seriously, dude? C'mon man...

[bobbiemcgee]

There are three games worth of Walker "facts" and you haven't seen any of them. Why should anyone believe that you would see (or understand) any other fact(s) that are equally clear to 10,249 fans (+ a top-flight D-1 coaching staff) but seemingly not to you?

This.

[PMI]

Ok sure....
RBS. PTS.
Fri 11/19 vsIOWA W 86-73 25 6-7 .857 0-0 .000 3-3 1.000 2 0 1 0 5 0 15
Tue 11/16 vsIPFW W 76-66 27 4-7 .571 0-0 .000 3-4 .750 6 1 1 0 4 1 11
Wed 1/19 @ST. BONAVENTURE W 79-65 23 6-7 .857 0-0 .000 0-0 .000 4 0 0 1 4 1 12
Tue 2/22 vsLA SALLE W 100-62 27 8-10 .800 0-1 .000 6-7 .857 1 0 1 2 3 1 22

It shouldn't surprise me by now, but I actually can't believe you just used the stats from Robinson's best four games of last year to try and support your argument. Four games. By your logic, Jeff Robinson is a BEAST for 13.33% of the season. Come on man. I could probably take 4 games from even Jimmy Binnie's career and call him a beast if that's the way we're measuring. Are you not frustrated by Robinson's inconsistency, yet you are so frustrated with letting Mack experiment with his lineups in the first three games of the year?

[whiteyxu]

Oh and by the way, your poll question is not only egotistical, it's also illogical. If you do get banned, it's not because your opinions aren't valid - it's because you are being a complete douche about how you present those opinions.

[Titanxman04]

oh and by the way, your poll question is not only egotistical, it's also illogical. If you do get banned, it's not because your opinions aren't valid - it's because you are being a complete douche about how you present those opinions.

boom roasted!

[X-band '01]

It shouldn't surprise me by now, but I actually can't believe you just used the stats from Robinson's best four games of last year to try and support your argument. Four games. By your logic, Jeff Robinson is a BEAST for 13.33% of the season. Come on man. I could probably take 4 games from even Jimmy Binnie's career and call him a beast if that's the way we're measuring. Are you not frustrated by Robinson's inconsistency, yet you are so frustrated with letting Mack experiment with his lineups in the first three games of the year?

You can take any box score you want for those purposes - the only stats that Traffic Cone could ever hope to accumulate would be blocks.

Snap.

[boozehound]

Right, a "glue guy". Shouldn't the best five be starting though? Andrew Taylor was a glue guy, and a good one coming off the bench. Same with Josh Duncan. Why can't Walker do that same thing this year?

What the hell has Robinson done to prove he is one of the 'best five'?

[waggy]

Will I get banned from this messageboard?

Magic 8 ball says: Outlook Good.

[PMI]

TUXU, you could not have picked a worse time to start three threads vouching for more minutes from Jeff Robinson, because he looks absolutely lost right now and Walker and Taylor are looking good. I'm not going to rush to judgement, but right now, Walker, Taylor and even Martin are leading the race ahead of Robinson. It's frustrating because I really want to see him play well, but man, I don't know if we can really give him anymore relevant minutes tonight with the way he looked on both ends.

[Titanxman04]

Love me some Jeff Robinson, but Walker is a PLAYA!

Remember that time that someone on this board said something along the line of Walker shouldn't be starting?

Oh..yea...

Everyone > TUXU2011

[MADXSTER]

And let it be said that everyone on this board likes Jeff Robinson.

We're not dissing Robinson in saying that Walker should be starting over Robinson at this point.

[Titanxman04]

And let it be said that everyone on this board likes Jeff Robinson.

We're not dissing Robinson in saying that Walker should be starting over Robinson at this point.

this

[TUXU2011]

Who the hell changed the title of my thread!!!!!!!!

[Cheesehead]

I am sorry that you took offense to that. I didn't mean to anger people on here, I just was frustrated that people were criticizing my opinions. GO MUSKIES!:logo::shield::sword:

Well, it's because you are so off base, it's actually funny.

See tonight's boxscore and hopefully you will see what we will all see. Jeff's not getting the minutes and I am sure Coach Mack and staff have their reasons.

[Cheesehead]

oh and by the way, your poll question is not only egotistical, it's also illogical. If you do get banned, it's not because your opinions aren't valid - it's because you are being a complete douche about how you present those opinions.

this

[Cheesehead]

I don't know how many times i have to say this. Being a good athlete does not necessarily mean being a a good basketball player or a complete basketball player. If being athletic was the sole requirement, then Melvin Leviitt and Keith Jackson would be in the NBA. Walker is a complete player, Ronbinson at this point, is not.

[Xman95]

I could put stats up for four games in a season where Caudle looked good too, but that doesn't mean he'll be one of the greatest centers of all time.

Watch it! You might deserve a ban just for even coming close to saying something negative about Big Will. That fella is a true Xavier legend. Maybe not in a David West or Tyrone Hill kind of way, but still a legend.

[Titanxman04]

Watch it! You might deserve a ban just for even coming close to saying something negative about Big Will. That fella is a true Xavier legend. Maybe not in a David West or Tyrone Hill kind of way, but still a legend.

I'm not scared. Caudle cracked me up, but great basketball big man he was not.

[CinciX12]

This thread is just filled with stupid.

I picture you as the moron father that yells at me when I ref 6th grade girls basketball games.

[CinciX12]

:logo::shield::sword:

[bobbiemcgee]

Walker just doesn't seem to make plays in my opinion and Trav is looking like a good bench guy.

Hope you you were able to catch the game.:eek:

[FIGHTING MUSKETEER]

TUXU2011 you are none of the above. You are just an egocentric wearing a *&^% suit (actually a prick TUXUdo) And for the record, I dont mind you providing your opinions. I just dislike when you force others to listen to you and/or follow you. Diversity is good what you are doing is not.

[boozehound]

I got a gray-dot rep from TUXU2011 with the comment "Robinson is a boss". I actually laughed about loud when I saw that.

I'm pretty sure that this guy is just messing with us.

[XUFan09]

I got a gray-dot rep from TUXU2011 with the comment "Robinson is a boss". I actually laughed about loud when I saw that.

I'm pretty sure that this guy is just messing with us.

Lol. Where do you see your rep comments anyway? Either I've just never been neg-repped or I just don't know where to look.

[Xavier]

I'm pretty sure that this guy is just messing with us.

He is, and he is doing good job of it. Great troll

[X-band '01]

Lol. Where do you see your rep comments anyway? Either I've just never been neg-repped or I just don't know where to look.

Click on User CP and you should see all your recent reps. Become a Supporting Member and you can also see who's been repping you, good and bad.

(ADVERTISEMENT)
Only $12.50 per year!
(END ADVERTISEMENT)

[TUXU2011]

Here we are one year later, and Chris Mack is as inept as ever. Look at him crumble this program with his bare hands and bald head. Mack has made it really tough for us to get back into the nation's elite. He plays two untalented walk ons in Landen Amos and Stenger. Xavier should have thrown millions at Sean Miller while they had the chance. They could have replaced Miller with a qualified coach but instead we are stuck with Mack for the rest of his career. Let's face the facts. Dee Davis is still below average. Jeff Robinson doesn't know how to play basketball. Brad Redford is lost without the coach who recruited him. Justin Martin might as well shoot with his eyes closed because he cannot make a jump shot. I am very worried about this program and it starts with the coaching! :logo::shield::sword:

[Muskie]

Here we are one year later, and Chris Mack is as inept as ever. Look at him crumble this program with his bare hands and bald head. Mack has made it really tough for us to get back into the nation's elite. He plays two untalented walk ons in Landen Amos and Stenger. Xavier should have thrown millions at Sean Miller while they had the chance. They could have replaced Miller with a qualified coach but instead we are stuck with Mack for the rest of his career. Let's face the facts. Dee Davis is still below average. Jeff Robinson doesn't know how to play basketball. Brad Redford is lost without the coach who recruited him. Justin Martin might as well shoot with his eyes closed because he cannot make a jump shot. I am very worried about this program and it starts with the coaching! :logo::shield::sword:

So who should he play instead of Stenger or Amos?

Sent from my DROID X2 using Tapatalk 2

[xsteve1]

Here we are one year later, and Chris Mack is as inept as ever. Look at him crumble this program with his bare hands and bald head. Mack has made it really tough for us to get back into the nation's elite. He plays two untalented walk ons in Landen Amos and Stenger. Xavier should have thrown millions at Sean Miller while they had the chance. They could have replaced Miller with a qualified coach but instead we are stuck with Mack for the rest of his career. Let's face the facts. Dee Davis is still below average. Jeff Robinson doesn't know how to play basketball. Brad Redford is lost without the coach who recruited him. Justin Martin might as well shoot with his eyes closed because he cannot make a jump shot. I am very worried about this program and it starts with the coaching! :logo::shield::sword:

Hopefully we don't lose any assistants this offseason. That takes its toll. If we struggle next year I'll be worried. We have been in every game this year and have always struggled under Mack in December. Its to early to panic.

[Masterofreality]

Yep. Inept coaches reach two Sweet 16s in their first 3 years....and 3 NCAA 's.

Yep.

[Masterofreality]

Hopefully we don't lose any assistants this offseason. That takes its toll. If we struggle next year I'll be worried. We have been in every game this year and have always struggled under Mack in December. Its to early to panic.

This, except we still will be very young next year. I expect to have some early struggles next year too, although Dee and Semaj are a year older and the Stain Train arrives.

Thanks NCAA.

[TUXU2011]

Yep. Inept coaches reach two Sweet 16s in their first 3 years....and 3 NCAA 's.

Yep.

That wasn't because of Mack. They won in spite of their coach. The team was made up of all Sean Miller's players with the exception of a couple. We relied on those players and that style of play to have success. Now, it's all Mack's team and look what is going on. I also thought it was inexcusable to allow Lyons to transfer. You have to do a better job convincing him to stay. Obviously Mark didn't want to play for Mack.

[TUXU2011]

So who should he play instead of Stenger or Amos?

Sent from my DROID X2 using Tapatalk 2

I would continue to play Stenger because he can at least hold his own at times. However, it is beyond me that James Farr doesn't play. He was recruited by Mack and it was a waste of a recruitment if he can't play. Give Farr more minutes if you trusted him enough to offer a scholarship. Mack relies on transfers and walk-ons to bridge the gap for his lack of recruiting skills.

[Masterofreality]

That wasn't because of Mack. They won in spite of their coach. The team was made up of all Sean Miller's players with the exception of a couple. We relied on those players and that style of play to have success. Now, it's all Mack's team and look what is going on. I also thought it was inexcusable to allow Lyons to transfer. You have to do a better job convincing him to stay. Obviously Mark didn't want to play for Mack.

Teams don't win in spite of their coach. They lose in spite of them, with the exception of horriffic coaches like Steve Lappas and Kevin O'Nuckelehad who couldn't win with the 1927 Yankees.

Ad Nauseum. Mark Lyons was going to have to play the two guard here because Dee Davis and Semaj had to play the one to continue to develop the program. Lyons demanded to play the one because that was his opinioned ticket to the NBA. He chose to go elsewhere to do so because that could not be his role here. He certainly did not hate Mack because after the last game last year he vehemently said that he'd be back. He played for Mack for 3 years, would not accept his 2 guard role here for another year, graduated and moved on to another place to play point. Period.

[paulxu]

Mack is not playing his starters nearly enough. First off, Walker shouldn't even be a starter. The lineup should be Holloway, Lyons, Dez, JRobinson, Frease.


Here we are one year later, and Chris Mack is as inept as ever. Jeff Robinson doesn't know how to play basketball.

Let me know when you get this sorted out.

[Xman95]

Teams don't win in spite of their coach. They lose in spite of them, with the exception of horriffic coaches like Steve Lappas and Kevin O'Nuckelehad who couldn't win with the 1927 Yankees.

Two words: Brian Gregory

[Muskie]

I would continue to play Stenger because he can at least hold his own at times. However, it is beyond me that James Farr doesn't play. He was recruited by Mack and it was a waste of a recruitment if he can't play. Give Farr more minutes if you trusted him enough to offer a scholarship. Mack relies on transfers and walk-ons to bridge the gap for his lack of recruiting skills.

How many Freshman Big Men play around college basketball? I too would like to see more of Farr, but he's apparently not ready yet. I'll hold off calling him a waste of recruiting until he actually has some minutes during game time.

[boozehound]

I would continue to play Stenger because he can at least hold his own at times. However, it is beyond me that James Farr doesn't play. He was recruited by Mack and it was a waste of a recruitment if he can't play. Give Farr more minutes if you trusted him enough to offer a scholarship. Mack relies on transfers and walk-ons to bridge the gap for his lack of recruiting skills.

This shows an astonishing lack of basketball knowledge. That is all.

[FIGHTING MUSKETEER]

When I read some of the comments in this and other threads (last year something similar occurred), you can only conclude that we, as fans, are fu@$*(g spoiled and need to learn how to go thru adversity and stick behind our team in those less desirable moments/off-seasons/seasons. So far this has been a very erratic and inconsistent team. GRANTED. So far it looks like we are not going to reach the NCAA Tournament. GRANTED. Maybe this team is not even NIT bound. GRANTED.

Now, there is no need to recount the past 12 months so lets just say that this team has suffered major personnel blows in that time period. So the question is, how is it that some here are still "discovering" something that we already knew, or at least suspected? Come on. Of course this might end up being a freaking "down" year BUT if we as fans stop supporting our program it might end up being a "down" couple of years or even a decade. The fan base needs to continue going to the games and make our home rock, spend money at the Cintas, donating $$$ or whatever your level of resources allow you to do in support of the program.

Finally, if you look at the so called powerhouses in basketball, many of them, if not most of them, had "down" years where they did not make the NCAA. You don't need to go 40 years back. Take the last 10 - 20 seasons, and you will see that Connecticut, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Memphis, UCLA, Louisville, Ohio State, Villanova, Georgetown and Duke, to name a few, failed to make the NCAA (some of them more than once). Sooner or later, most of those teams got back in track and chances are that the fan support played an important factor in their recovery. So, I have made plans to travel to Cintas next season with my 3 kids. Complaining is an integral part of human beings but don't stop there. GO X.

[GetUp5]

This shows an astonishing lack of basketball knowledge. That is all.

This.

Ban TuXu2011, imo.

[xudash]

When I read some of the comments in this and other threads (last year something similar occurred), you can only conclude that we, as fans, are fu@$*(g spoiled and need to learn how to go thru adversity and stick behind our team in those less desirable moments/off-seasons/seasons. So far this has been a very erratic and inconsistent team. GRANTED. So far it looks like we are not going to reach the NCAA Tournament. GRANTED. Maybe this team is not even NIT bound. GRANTED.

Now, there is no need to recount the past 12 months so lets just say that this team has suffered major personnel blows in that time period. So the question is, how is it that some here are still "discovering" something that we already knew, or at least suspected? Come on. Of course this might end up being a freaking "down" year BUT if we as fans stop supporting our program it might end up being a "down" couple of years or even a decade. The fan base needs to continue going to the games and make our home rock, spend money at the Cintas, donating $$$ or whatever your level of resources allow you to do in support of the program.

Finally, if you look at the so called powerhouses in basketball, many of them, if not most of them, had "down" years where they did not make the NCAA. You don't need to go 40 years back. Take the last 10 - 20 seasons, and you will see that Connecticut, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Memphis, UCLA, Louisville, Ohio State, Villanova, Georgetown and Duke, to name a few, failed to make the NCAA (some of them more than once). Sooner or later, most of those teams got back in track and chances are that the fan support played an important factor in their recovery. So, I have made plans to travel to Cintas next season with my 3 kids. Complaining is an integral part of human beings but don't stop there. GO X.

Excellent post.

If this wasn't expected to be a down year on paper then I don't know what "down" means.

Sometime in this first quarter and possibly as soon as sometime this month, I expect the announcement for Xavier's transition to the BE7 conference. I believe Xavier's program is headed for even better positioning as a result of that pending move. Chris Mack will continue to drive the program towards more and greater success.

Let's see what he's able to do with this season from here on in.

BTW, I'm set to come up for the UMass game on March 2. I'm coming either way. I haven't given up on this season yet.

[Cheesehead]

This.

Ban TuXu2011, imo.

Agreed.

[Kahns Krazy]

I just don't get why anyone who is so down on the team would then choose to dwell on it more by spending time writing about how horrible they are. I can imagine about a bozillion ways to spend time better than that.

Rant on, if you want, but I think you'd be much happier with a hobby or a girlfriend or something.

[FIGHTING MUSKETEER]

I just don't get why anyone who is so down on the team would then choose to dwell on it more by spending time writing about how horrible they are. I can imagine about a bozillion ways to spend time better than that.

Rant on, if you want, but I think you'd be much happier with a hobby or a girlfriend or something.

Can't rep you. 2 thumbs up.

[paulxu]

Rant on, if you want, but I think you'd be much happier with a hobby or a girlfriend or something.

This certainly explains the shortage of DC's posts recently. I believe for him those are one in the same.

[PM Thor]

I think people were surprised with the early season success of this team, and when teams figured out how to play us, and we came up against adversity, fans freaked out. As if the early wins would equate to mid and late season wins. This team hasn't changed people. We knew what we had, and to act as if we were shocked just shows ignorance, at least to me. We are thin. Simple enough. Oh and don't freaking blame Mack. Asinine.

I HATE dayton.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

That wasn't because of Mack. They won in spite of their coach. The team was made up of all Sean Miller's players with the exception of a couple. We relied on those players and that style of play to have success. Now, it's all Mack's team and look what is going on. I also thought it was inexcusable to allow Lyons to transfer. You have to do a better job convincing him to stay. Obviously Mark didn't want to play for Mack.

So when Jordan Crawford was shooting Xavier out of games early in the 2009/2010 season, particularly against Marquette, and Mack reigned him in(including benching him against UC) while instituting an entirely new offense to take advantage of Jordan's offensive skills, that wasn't coaching?

[Backyard Champ]

I figured it would be a long season when the success of the team relied on Jeff Robinson's play. When he is on, and hitting that 19 foot jumper, Xavier is a tough team to beat. It helps our offense flow, without that mid range jump shot, our offense doesn't flow at all. In fact, it can be pretty embarrassing at times. At the start of the year, it appeared that something may have clicked with Jeff, however that simply wasn't the case.

Dee Davis was also playing much better basketball than he is now, at least it seems that way. He was running the offense, passing well and not making mistakes. At the start of the year, this team was doing a tremendous job passing the ball and spreading out the court. I'm not sure if it's because defenses have adjusted, but it looks as if we come to a stand still on a lot of trips up the court. We aren't passing nearly as well as we did to start the year.

I think I remember that Mack stated when he was hired that he wanted to run a similar style of basketball as Miller, but he was going to do it at a more up tempo pace. While that can be very effective in transition, I feel like it has hurt us a bit in the half court. At times, it looks like no one is doing anything in the half court offense, everyone is just standing around until 15 seconds left on the shot clock. It's a different style, but it doesn't mean Mack can't coach. Xavier seems to get a lot of easy buckets out of time outs, and that is a direct result of coaching.

We knew it would be a long season before the season started, however expectations changed after the big Butler win. If we wipe out the Butler win, this team is what most of us expected. It is a long season though, and I'm still holding out for the A10 tournament. I will always believe Xavier can make a run in the tournament, we've done it before and we will do it again. The only reason A10 regular season play matters now is for seeding in the A10 tournament.

[JimmyTwoTimes37]

I'm not sure if it's because defenses have adjusted, but it looks as if we come to a stand still on a lot of trips up the court. We aren't passing nearly as well as we did to start the year.



I think its a combination of:
A) Defenses adjusting
B) Our guys not adjusting
C) Youth(consistency/letting the offensive struggles effect them defensively)

I don't think its a direct result of:
A) Effort
B) Coaching(Sure some plays here and there but not in general terms)

[sgarcia]

I got to watch the 2nd half of the game on my phone last night. That was a painful hour. The game pretty much ended when we were down about 50-49 (don't remember the exact score). Wake missed a 1 and 1, got the rebound and was fouled on the shot. Then they miss both free throws, got 2 offensive rebounds and made a layup to go up 3. We then get fouled, miss 2 free throws, Wake comes down and scores again. The game was over at that point eventhough there was still a lot of time left. We play the last 2 minutes with the backcourt of Amos and Redford because we have nobody else after Semaj and Dee. It's just painful to watch. I knew going into the season like most people that we wouldn't have a great record so I don't understand why people on this board are shocked at what they are watching. I'm sure everyone is trying their hardest and Coach Mack is hopefully trying some different things. Maybe we'll get it together, maybe we won't. It's conference season now so we're 0-0.

[PMI]

I think I remember that Mack stated when he was hired that he wanted to run a similar style of basketball as Miller, but he was going to do it at a more up tempo pace. While that can be very effective in transition, I feel like it has hurt us a bit in the half court. At times, it looks like no one is doing anything in the half court offense, everyone is just standing around until 15 seconds left on the shot clock. It's a different style, but it doesn't mean Mack can't coach. Xavier seems to get a lot of easy buckets out of time outs, and that is a direct result of coaching.



Virtually everything you said in this paragraph are the EXACT same criticisms people had of Miller's offenses for years. Try and remember back. Even in our Elite 8 year, we had some tremendously long stretches of offensive ineptitude. We would go several minutes without a field goal, the ball would stop, movement would cease, etc. Until this year, so far, Mack's offenses have been every bit as good as Miller's. Look at the numbers. Every year, there have been points of futility. This year, we lack our usual offensive talent and are below where we normally are. His first three seasons, the offensive averages over 74 ppg, which is pretty much the same as what Miller's teams did. Yet now that Miller's gone, everyone forgets that they used to have the exact same complaints with his offenses during stretches of the season, just usually with better rosters. I'm not saying Mack has been perfect this year. He, like everyone else in the locker room, are accountable. But people don't seem to remember well or see clearly when the rocky times hit.