Bowling Green vs. Xavier (December 7, 2013)

[paulxu]

http://www.madtownbadgers.com/images/Opposition_Pics/bgsu_mascot.JPGVS.http://cache.lego.com/upload/contentTemplating/MinifiguresBios/images/pic773F455B41A27FB44B60F2397BAA49D7.jpg


Bowling Green Falcons (3-4) vs. Xavier University Musketeers (5-3)
Saturday, December 7, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. ET
Cintas Center, Cincinnati, Ohio

Live Chat (http://www.chatzy.com/32573582761803)

Television: Fox Sports 1
Radio: 55KRC-AM Joe Sunderman (`79) and Byron Larkin (`88)
Kegs-N-Eggs, Dana Gardens 10:00 AM

[paulxu]

Things to note about this game:
- The streak returns
- We are available to 90 million homes on FoxSports1 on Saturday (quite an upgrade from last year)
- Their mascots are Freddy and Frieda (really?)
- Dana Gardens is opening early (will there actually be eggs?)
- Time to forget the islands and get on with the season

[Titanxman04]

Hailing from the great city of Bowling Green, Ohio, I must say that I wish I was at this game. Of course I always have pulled for X when they meet up, it's always nice seeing folks from my hometown.

Freddy and Frieda are awesome. Respect them. What other school uses the mascot of the Falcon?

The likes of Rob Blake. Oral Hershiser. Scott Hamilton. Ken Morrow and Mark Wells (1980 US Olympic Hockey Team).

BG was also home to the World Record for most pizza shops per square mile (it was awesome).

I loved growing up there and despite wanting to venture out into the world, there's always that soft spot for home.

With that said, I hope we win by 50.

[toledodan]

Hailing from the great city of Bowling Green, Ohio, I must say that I wish I was at this game. Of course I always have pulled for X when they meet up, it's always nice seeing folks from my hometown.

Freddy and Frieda are awesome. Respect them. What other school uses the mascot of the Falcon?

The likes of Rob Blake. Oral Hershiser. Scott Hamilton. Ken Morrow and Mark Wells (1980 US Olympic Hockey Team).

BG was also home to the World Record for most pizza shops per square mile (it was awesome).

I loved growing up there and despite wanting to venture out into the world, there's always that soft spot for home.

With that said, I hope we win by 50.

i lived in toledo for 6 years. i didn't venture much to BG but when i did it was a nice little college town. it had a skyline chilli for a bit :)

[Titanxman04]

i lived in toledo for 6 years. i didn't venture much to BG but when i did it was a nice little college town. it had a skyline chilli for a bit :)

There's some great little bars and restaurants there. Growing up there, it was kind of lame. Looking back though, great place to grow up. Venture there sometime!

[Milhouse]

Sounds similar to my feelings of South Bend Indiana, not a great place to grow up but nice going back/have more appreciation for it now.

[BandAid]

Freddy and Frieda are awesome. Respect them. What other school uses the mascot of the Falcon?


Air Force

Unrelated note: They have a falconry program on campus. They'd bring to the football games and do a halftime show. It was really cool. Although I heard a rumor they had to stop because a wild hawk intercepted one of the peregrines once during the show.

[Titanxman04]

Air Force

Unrelated note: They have a falconry program on campus. They'd bring to the football games and do a halftime show. It was really cool. Although I heard a rumor they had to stop because a wild hawk intercepted one of the peregrines once during the show.

Damnit, forgot about that branch of our military. Well done.

[blobfan]

...

BG was also home to the World Record for most pizza shops per square mile (it was awesome).

...

That's because BG puts ALL it's restaurants into the same square mile. I think there's some sort of law in that town that only fast food restaurants can set up shop outside of that mile.

[Emp]

Hailing from the great city of Bowling Green, Ohio, I must say that I wish I was at this game. Of course I always have pulled for X when they meet up, it's always nice seeing folks from my hometown.

Freddy and Frieda are awesome. Respect them. What other school uses the mascot of the Falcon?

The likes of Rob Blake. Oral Hershiser. Scott Hamilton. Ken Morrow and Mark Wells (1980 US Olympic Hockey Team).

BG was also home to the World Record for most pizza shops per square mile (it was awesome).

I loved growing up there and despite wanting to venture out into the world, there's always that soft spot for home.

With that said, I hope we win by 50.

Dave Wottle, Oly 800 gold medal, famous for his golf cap?


Xavier 75
BG 63

[paulxu]

I am very confused about this year's team. Had originally thought we would compete well in the BE. After the island debacle, not so sure.
Hard to imagine we came out of there with not one win. There seems to be a lot of talent on this team, but it's not gelling right now.
Perhaps today will be the start of a new look for the team. Hard to change stripes, but not impossible. This could still be a great year.

Time to wake up, man up, and play up.

[GoMuskies]

Xavier -15.5 this afternoon. That line seems a bit hard to understand, but I'm glad we're likely to win today.

[coasterville95]

I missed Kegs and Eggs at Dana's. But I did get to campus around 12:45 and stopped at Currito. Good burritos, like a chipotle, and they have $2 PBR. Beats the $7 inside the arena.

I'm about to head over to Cintas.

On a side note: after drinking craft beer, cheap beer really tastes bad. You know that face you had when you first good craft of "what is this sh*t". Well after being beer snobbified it works the other way to.

[Cheesehead]

So are their mascots like Ernie and Bert?

[Nigel Tufnel]

i lived in toledo for 6 years. i didn't venture much to BG but when i did it was a nice little college town. it had a skyline chilli for a bit :)

I lived in Toledo for 3 years and visited Bowling Green several times while living there. I don't want to bang on Toledo and insult people who like it there...so I'll follow my mother's advice when she used to tell me, "if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." My most vivid memory of living up in Northwest Ohio? The cold....my God, the windy bitter cold. Been to Cleveland tons of times....and it gets cold there....but nothing like Toledo and/or BG in my opinion. The wind would be so bad at times, it felt like I was getting stabbed in the face with an ice pick. Only time I've ever had to literally walk backwards to class because I couldn't take the wind hitting my face.

[Muskie]

Plenty of good seats open here at Cintas. This will be a sell out in name only.

[GoMuskies]

This game is lacking something in the energy department.

[casualfan]

This game is lacking something in the energy department.

Extremely disappointing given the way they played in the Bahamas and the long layoff.

I hoped we'd see a team hungry to come out and put that performance behind them.

[Jesuit4Life]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4F4qzPbcFiA

[Charlesbt4]

The rule changes and officiating are making college basketball unwatchable.

[coasterville95]

Agree the new foul rules are ruining the game!

[coasterville95]

It is on the books a sell out - I doubt there are 6,000 here.

[paulxu]

If you are standing in the lane with your hands up...foul?

Davis does not have the Lavender tear drop.

[GoMuskies]

FT defense has been pretty good.

[The_Mack_Pack]

I cringe when someone other than Myles or Farr shoot threes.

[GoMuskies]

Farr is the man.

[paulxu]

Other than Farr, not much to be impressed with at this point.

[DC Muskie]

I have to say I'm tired of Justin Martin.

[The_Mack_Pack]

The turnovers are absolutely ridiculous and they're all from our "experienced " players.

[paulxu]

God that was an ugly half. And most of them don't seem like they care.

[RealDeal]

Wow we suck.

[coasterville95]

Paul.- yeah the lack of energy or anything that seems like care is very disturbing.

Anybody thinking they would come out like a rocket trying to atone for that disaster in Atlantis is sorely mistaken.

[THRILLHOUSE]

Never thought I'd say X really misses a former walk on/nku transfer, but they really miss Stenger right now.

[bjf123]

How the hell do we let them go on a 12-0 run to end the half? Mack better light a fire under their asses at half time. This is ridiculous.


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[xufan02]

Why didn't Mack use his use it or lose it time out at the 1 minute mark when BG made a run? We then turned in over twice and BG scored on back to back possessions.

It's almost like Mack wants these guys to figure it out themselves. The lockeroom is going to be on fire at halftime. Semaj and Stainbrook need to show leadership and take this team under thier wing in the second half.

[RealDeal]

Is semaj hurt? More cramps?

[DC Muskie]

Why didn't Mack use his use it or lose it time out at the 1 minute mark when BG made a run? We then turned in over twice and BG scored on back to back possessions.

I thought the same thing. My answer, "I have NO EARTHLY IDEA!"

[bjf123]

Is semaj hurt? More cramps?

Two fouls early in the half.


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[THRILLHOUSE]

Is semaj hurt? More cramps?

No, 2 early fouls landed him on the bench

[MHettel]

I have to say I'm tired of Justin Martin.

Wish I was just now coming to that same conclusion. He's so lazy on the court.

[ervinsm84]

Eeesh. This would be a really embarrassing loss.

[mohr5150]

What an absolute joke of a performance that was. There were nine total points from starters. More missed foul shots, 11 turnovers in one half against a horrible team that is even worse than horrible because their best player is out for the year. Just pitiful.

[oddblob]

looking so, so bad. what is going on with this team??

[X Factor]

Folks, our offense has to run through James Farr!! Yes, I said it. He is now our most valuable offensive player behind Semaj. Farr needs to play 30 minutes a game and average about 12 shot attempts per game.

[bjf123]

There were nine total points from starters.
Most were on the bench in foul trouble for a good chunk of the half.



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[sirthought]

They have statistically done better in every area except fouls, turnovers, and points off turnovers.

If they can just hold on to the ball better, I think they can pull it out.

[Strange Brew]

Let's go x!

[paulxu]

I can't figure Martin out. He looks like he wants to be anywhere but on the floor...then he gets a perfect assist pass to Farr, and runs down a loose ball to knock it off their guy to keep possession.
Just a damn enigma.

[sirthought]

I am listening online and using GameTracker.

Can't find a video link. Anyone else find one for this game? Front Row Sports is surprisingly absent.

[Muskie]

Is Randolph better than Davis if he doesn't score ?

[fellahmuskie]

I couldn't find a link, either. Frustrating. I though this would be easier with the games on fox sports 1.

[xuinmd]

Is it me or do we shoot foul shots quicker than any other team?

[mohr5150]

I'd like to know what Martin said to get T'd up. I'm sure it had something to do with that guy's horrible ref job today.

[GoMuskies]

Idiotic technical, but the intensity seems to be back.

[X Factor]

Feed Farr!

[mohr5150]

Our point guard can't even dribble in the open court. Just classic.

[Strange Brew]

Glad someone on our sideline spoke up. Our coach is just sitting there. I'd appreciate it Mack would act like he cares. No emotion, no fire.

[paulxu]

50% FT shooting and more TO''s than assists is not a good recipe for winning basketball.

Come on guys. Play some better ball. You're killing me here.

[The_Mack_Pack]

I will say, I like Dee diving to the floor a lot in this one.

[X Factor]

Why is Philmore playing over Farr???

[mohr5150]

I love watching our offense of Christon driving to the basket. Let's continue to try that because you haven't turned it over enough yet.

[X Factor]

Feed Farr!

Again, why isn't Farr playing 30 min a night?

[OTRMUSKIE]

I think people have figured Semaj out. Crowd the inside when he has the ball and just let him shoot from outside. Right now FARR is a better prospect than Semaj. He is just feeling it. I think its time to get this rotation down to 7 people. Martin and Philmore shouldn't see more than 10 mins a game.

[Muskie]

This is the first time I've seen a hack the pg defense. Guaranteed 1 point instead of 2

[GoMuskies]

Damn, Semaj is a dunk machine all of a sudden!

[mohr5150]

Wow...Randolph misses a layup. I don't even know what to say about that.

[whiteyxu]

Can someone please explain to me what value Randolph adds at this point? He is an ok ballhandler but has next to no scoring potential. His missed layup has helped get BG right back in the game.

[mohr5150]

I really don't care what any supposed expert says about Christon's game, he is not very good. Just horrible decision-making on a much-too regular basis. Why would you take a 15-foot jumper with only a few seconds off the shot clock?

[X Factor]

I really don't care what any supposed expert says about Christon's game, he is not very good. Just horrible decision-making on a much-too regular basis. Why would you take a 15-foot jumper with only a few seconds off the shot clock?

Yeah ok, you have lost all credibility with that post.

[Muskie]

The guy doing the PNC challenge sure was brilliant and handsome.

[mohr5150]

Yeah ok, you have lost all credibility with that post.

How so? What are the qualities of a solid guard?

Ball-handling: Good, but not great
First step: Excellent
Finishing: Very good
Shooting: God-awful
Foul Shooting: God awful
Decision-making: Poor
Defense: Average

That doesn't sound like an NBA-type player to me. To me he is an average guard who has a quick first step. Good teams with solid defense will shut his driving game down and there will be nothing left for him to do because he can't shoot

[mohr5150]

And there was another horrible decision by him. one on four with a lead and he drives to the basket and puts up some circus shit that leads to a three-pointer for BG.

[GoMuskies]

Wow, this is bad.

[The_Mack_Pack]

God that was pathetic. I just don't understand this team.

[paulxu]

Get up 10. Then stupid, stupid play to let them score 10 unanswered.

[GoMuskies]

Just realized we might actually lose. To Bowling Green.

I'm glad all the LOIs have already been signed for next year's class.

[Charlesbt4]

I'm going to go ahead and say it - Semaj Christon is overrated.

[coasterville95]

Tie game with 2:48 left.

[Strange Brew]

Time to question Mack's employment.

[GuyFawkes38]

Wow. Is Farr our best player?

[GoMuskies]

Time to question Mack's employment.

Not yet. That's a ways down the road still.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Why even try that pass?

[mohr5150]

Time to question Mack's employment.
I hope you are just joking.

[oddblob]

our ball handling is just absolutely awful.

[Strange Brew]

How so? He did not have control of the Tu/Lyons team and the last two years have been unimpressive.

[GuyFawkes38]

Not yet. That's a ways down the road still.

Agreed. You don't question a college basketball coaches employment in December.

[Muskie]

I think the teams aggression had passport problems and is still at Atlantis.

[coasterville95]

Is this booing the Muskies or the officials?

[paulxu]

It's a good thing we weren't favored in this game.

[Strange Brew]

Agreed. You don't question a college basketball coaches employment in December.

Still sure about that. 3 straight losses now this. Pathetic.

[GoMuskies]

How so? He did not have control of the Tu/Lyons team and the last two years have been unimpressive.

He's going to have to screw up the 2014 class before he's in any danger.

[GuyFawkes38]

This performance is definitely "boo" worthy.

[Charlesbt4]

Tu Holloway over Semaj Christon all day, every day.

[mohr5150]

Just absolutely horrible decision-making from the entire team. What Stainbrook thought he was doing with that wild shot is beyond my comprehension. We are being out-athleticized by a MAC team.

[coasterville95]

The boards mood could be 45 seconds away from getting even uglier.

[Strange Brew]

He's going to have to screw up the 2014 class before he's in any danger.

Not going to the tourney two years in a row is unacceptable.

[X Factor]

Wow, Philmore with a 2 inch vertical tries to score on a guy with a 40 inch vertical

[oddblob]

horrible. disgusting performance.

[mohr5150]

Philmore has to be the weakest 4 I have ever seen. That rebound came straight to him and he allowed the BG guy out muscle him.

[GoMuskies]

The boards mood could be 45 seconds away from getting even uglier.

The boards should be ugly if we lose. The least of anyone's worries.

[DC Muskie]

Philmore didn't want that rebound. Much like how this team doesn't want to win.

[sirthought]

This game is certainly not looking good on our coaching staff. Why isn't Mack directing more of the play?

[paulxu]

Nice announcing: "3 pt shooting is not Xavier's strength." You think?

[XU3232]

The rebounding has been atrocious for X

[GoMuskies]

Uh oh.

[oddblob]

ok im impressed. (and thats sad).

[GoMuskies]

Balls of Steel (lite)!

[Charlesbt4]

Balls of Steel (lite)!

Bullshit. Give me a different guard. The kid is overrated.

[GuyFawkes38]

Semaj>Tu

[paulxu]

Free basketball!

[GoMuskies]

Bullshit. Give me a different guard. The kid is overrated.

Careful what you wish for. Next year you'll likely get it.

[Charlesbt4]

Semaj>Tu

Yeah. Because Christon's actual accomplishments even compare to Holloway's.

[mohr5150]

Semaj>Tu

Comparing both of their sophomore years? Probably.

[GoMuskies]

Semaj has no supporting cast. When Tu was a soph, he had Jordan Crawford.

[SlimKibbles]

Question Mack's employment on Dec. 7? Give me a friggin break. This season has barely gotten started. Regardless of the outcome of this game, can we wait and see how things play out before we write off the season and fire the head coach?

[Charlesbt4]

He has no supporting cast? You're joking, right?

[paulxu]

Oh...nice start. Sh$t.

[aramis]

I hope all the fans leaving at the end of regulation are going to church.......how lame

[Strange Brew]

Question Mack's employment on Dec. 7? Give me a friggin break. This season has barely gotten started. Regardless of the outcome of this game, can we wait and see how things play out before we write off the season and fire the head coach?

The brawl, the aftermath, last year's lackluster performance and if we lose this game no tourney. Yes, it is time to question Mack's employment.

[GoMuskies]

He has no supporting cast? You're joking, right?

You think he has a good supporting cast?!? Did you not see us go to isaiah fcking Philmore five or six times in a row in a tight game? That kind of says it all.

[mohr5150]

The brawl, the aftermath, last year's lackluster performance and if we lose this game no tourney. Yes, it is time to question Mack's employment.

Fire Urban Meyer for allowing his players to fight last week.

[Charlesbt4]

You think he has a good supporting cast?!? Did you not see us go to isaiah fcking Philmore five or six times in a row in a tight game? That kind of says it all.

Was Kenny Frease a much better post option for Holloway?

[GoMuskies]

FT defense keeping us in good shape.

[X4LIFE]

Depth? Maybe if you consider 1 player on X would be a starter anywhere else (maybe). And the others are D1 bench players at best. This team is pathetic.

[GuyFawkes38]

Some good free throw defense in this game.

[DC Muskie]

I hope all the fans leaving at the end of regulation are going to church.......how lame

Where do they all have to at 4 on a Saturday other than church?

[Strange Brew]

Fire Urban Meyer for allowing his players to fight last week.

Yeah, I'd probably give Mack a pass if we were undefeated with a chance to play for the NC. We're not, we're in danger of losing at home to BG. Pathetic effort.

[mohr5150]

How's your offense looking, Semaj? It's easy to stop a one-dimensional player when you have shot-blockers.

[GoMuskies]

Was Kenny Frease a much better post option for Holloway?

Yeah, compared to Philmore. There's sure as hell no Mark Lyons out there to give him a break.

[Muskie]

Semaj must have read this board before OT. He's on fire now.

[paulxu]

Our pep band does not look to peppy. Step it up guys.

[Muskie]

The atmosphere here today is bad. I can't imagine it presents well on tv.

[Charlesbt4]

Yeah, compared to Philmore. There's sure as hell no Mark Lyons out there to give him a break.

This team has as many, if not more, highly rated players as that one.

[DC Muskie]

If we make the tournament this year can we all stop talking about a fight that happened two years ago?

[GoMuskies]

The atmosphere here today is bad. I can't imagine it presents well on tv.

It looks as good on TV as 99 percent of all other December college basketball games.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Myles and Farr need to play more..

[Strange Brew]

If we make the tournament this year can we all stop talking about a fight that happened two years ago?

Never :)

James Farr for President!!!

[GoMuskies]

This team has as many, if not more, highly rated players as that one.

It may have as many highly rated players, but it certainly doesn't have as many good players.

[oddblob]

great to get the W but what an ugly game. shoddy performance in all respects.

[Charlesbt4]

It may have as many highly rated players, but it certainly doesn't have as many good players.

You may be right, but only because Christon isn't that good.

[X Factor]

Farr is amazing this year. Who saw this coming? I love me some James Farr!

[sirthought]

I wasn't questioning Mack's employment. I want him to get off his ass and coach more when his team is struggling to execute. If they are making poor decisions on the court, you need to step in and say what you want to happen.

That's his job. Not to sit and act stoic, like he's not going to show any passion during a game. I get it, you don't want your team to get too high or low, but the team will show fire when you show fire.

[GoMuskies]

Just another ho hum double digit win.

[paulxu]

Myles 3's saved us today...and Semaj discovering correct FT mechanics in the last 6 minutes.

[X Factor]

You may be right, but only because Christon isn't that good.

Shut up. You're ignorant.

[Strange Brew]

I wasn't questioning Mack's employment. I want him to get off his ass and coach more when his team is struggling to execute. If they are making poor decisions on the court, you need to step in and say what you want to happen. That's his job.

I am because he sits on his ass and looks disinterested while his talented team flounders.

[paulxu]

Actually...this game was in the bag when Blobfan returned to her streak. (Please keep it up!)

They switched to FGC vs. FIU...that is the weirdest court I've ever seen. Palm trees and a beach...on a basketball court.

[mohr5150]

Glad we won. Although it was an absolutely horrible performance, it would have been far worse with an L after this one. I say burn the tape and move on.

[Charlesbt4]

Shut up. You're ignorant.

Thank you for clarifying your position. He is far, far too limited a basketball player

[XU3232]

This might be a win on paper, but as far as I'm concerned it's a loss. No way BG should have taken this game to OT. If we continue to play like this next Saturday is going to be very ugly.

[The_Mack_Pack]

A win is a win. A close win like that after blowing a double digit lead can be a good teaching moment.

[mohr5150]

This might be a win on paper, but as far as I'm concerned it's a loss. No way BG should have taken this game to OT. If we continue to play like this next Saturday is going to be very ugly.

Oh, it will be very difficult for X to make Saturday respectable whatsoever. When you give up offensive rebounds like you are handing out Halloween candy, your ball-handlers treat the ball like they are playing a game of hot potato, and you have one guy who can hit a three consistently, there isn't much of a reason to think otherwise.

[Charlesbt4]

As it stands today, Christon very likely will be a high first round draft pick, while being a very mediocre college basketball player, and having even less impressive results from a team standpoint.

[Muskie]

This might be a win on paper, but as far as I'm concerned it's a loss. No way BG should have taken this game to OT. If we continue to play like this next Saturday is going to be very ugly.

Fortunately the only thing that counts for the post season is what's on paper.

[vee4xu]

I can't put a finger on it, but something just isn't clicking over the last year and a half. This team on paper has more talent than others that have played at X, but there just hasn't been the same growth in the teams both the second half of the 2011-12 season and the entire 2012-13 season. This year, start off 5-0, looking good, then the last four games. I've alluded to it recently and keep going back to it. Leadership. Over the time I've noted, leaders have not really emerged. I am not talking about the best players being leaders because that isn't always the case. But, when I look at teams over the past 15 years, the past couple of years have not resulted in leaders coming forward. The last really effective leader in my mind was Dante. Tu and Lyons were leaders, but not really positive leaders. Oh well, I'm rambling now so I'll just quit yapping.

[Charlesbt4]

I can't put a finger on it, but something just isn't clicking over the last year and a half. This team on paper has more talent than others that have played at X, but there just hasn't been the same growth in the teams both the second half of the 2011-12 season and the entire 2012-13 season. This year, start off 5-0, looking good, then the last four games. I've alluded to it recently and keep going back to it. Leadership. Over the time I've noted, leaders have not really emerged. I am not talking about the best players being leaders because that isn't always the case. But, when I look at teams over the past 15 years, the past couple of years have not resulted in leaders coming forward. The last really effective leader in my mind was Dante. Tu and Lyons were leaders, but not really positive leaders. Oh well, I'm rambling now so I'll just quit yapping.

No. I agree with what you're saying.

[coasterville95]

I'm post gaming at Listerman's. They have Chickow on tap.

[vee4xu]

Stainbrook only 16 minutes today? Hmmm!

[XU3232]

Fortunately the only thing that counts for the post season is what's on paper.

Very true. Hopefully they turn things around and we can laugh about this game when March rolls around.

[fellahmuskie]

I agree about the leadership. I'd say it's been a factor since the brawl. I just hope it's not because of coach mack. Personally, optimistic this team will click and a leader will emerge

[vee4xu]

Stain and Philmore both fouled out and Farr had four fouls. Bigs have to be careful out there. Back to the leadership thing, Farr seems to be developing in that regard. He plays with energy and passion, which can become infectious. Though the leadership situation is in flux, I do like the fact that the team emits positive energy and not the negative punk stuff that came with Tu, Lyons and Kenny.

[coasterville95]

The crowd cheering about forcing overtime was somewhat humbling. Glad to see it come together during the overtime.

Not to say the team doesn't have issues, bit a win is a win.

[mistabeecee41]

Philmore had a great stretch during the 2nd half - but this team actually benefited in OT with both of them being fouled out.

During their run at the end of regulation, our offense consisted of throwing one of them the ball. Misses, getting blocked and Philmore's turnover were what allowed BG back into the game. Maybe Mack liked the matchups in the post - Semaj was barely involved. In OT, it was Semaj's world. Floor was spread with Martin + Farr as opposed to our natural bigs clogging the paint.

Hopfully we see a lot more of that OT lineup in the near future.

[The_Mack_Pack]

At this rate Farr could end up being an absolute matchup nightmare the next couple of years. His length, size, athleticism, and amazing shot for a big guy could turn him into a pro prospect. I really hope he keeps it up. He did wear the golden jersey this past week so I think he will.

[Juice]

I was reading through some of this thread before X pulled out the win. Looks like it was an absolute dumpster fire in here. I had to stop.

[Strange Brew]

At this rate Farr could end up being an absolute matchup nightmare the next couple of years. His length, size, athleticism, and amazing shot for a big guy could turn him into a pro prospect. I really hope he keeps it up. He did wear the golden jersey this past week so I think he will.

Love me some James Farr. The kid deserves a start and 30 minutes a game.

[Strange Brew]

I was reading through some of this thread before X pulled out the win. Looks like it was an absolute dumpster fire in here. I had to stop.

The team's effort was a dumpster fire. Glad they won but Mack and the team must improve.

[bleedXblue]

Well we got a W but it wasn't pretty. Not even sure where to start b/ c this team just makes things difficult on themselves. The turnovers and inability to stop teams have got to be right up there.

[Masterofreality]

The most effective lineup that Xavier had in the game...the WHOLE game...was either Dee or Brandon or Myles (2 of the 3, but mostly Dee & Myles), Semaj on the wing, Jimmy Farr and Isaiah. I'm going back and "check the tape" for a future post, but a lot of good things happened with that group on the floor.

What name is missing?

[xu82]

if Semaj can learn to shoot FT's like he supposedly does in practice and Farr can stay out of foul trouble and get these kind of minutes and Myles can get more minutes to stretch the floor a bit then I am willing to say something positive may have come out of this. Other than that, this game was one ugly sight! The free throw thing may be partially his mechanics, but I have to believe most of it is between his ears.

[xu82]

And how on earth does Dee Davis get 5 rebounds more than Philmore???

[Masterofreality]

if Semaj can learn to shoot FT's like he supposedly does in practice and Farr can stay out of foul trouble and get these kind of minutes and Myles can get more minutes to stretch the floor a bit then I am willing to say something positive may have come out of this. Other than that, this game was one ugly sight! The free throw thing may be partially his mechanics, but I have to believe most of it is between his ears.

I noticed that Semaj widened his stance a bit on his frees. Still the one foot behind the other, but definitely a few inches wider than earlier.

[OTRMUSKIE]

He took his time! He didn't just rush when he got to the line. These guys get up there and they don't relax. There is no reason to rush, just take your time and focus.

[xudash]

Someone please provide some good perspective on losing an 11 point lead.

I recall us losing it in a snap.

I recall a BG player who averages 17% from behind the arc sinking a 3. I recall a traffic congested breakaway leading to a missed layup by Randolph that then led to a BG breakaway with an "and one" result - 3 more points. I remember Dee dribbling into two defenders and turning it over. Overall, that lead was gone in a snap.

Beyond that, I like that they gutted it out and found a way to win, especially partially through two of the most famous FT's ever from Semaj.

These kids care, and they're certainly trying hard to win. I believe this win strengthened the team's mettle.

Hopefully, focus, game management and leadership improve, and things come together, as they normally come together for Xavier.

[XUFan09]

Was Kenny Frease a much better post option for Holloway?

Kenny Frease was a backup Holloway's sophomore year. Jason Love was the starting center. He was okay.

So Holloway's fellow starters consisted of Jordan Crawford, Dante Jackson (shooting around 40% from 3 that year), Jason Love, and Jamel McLean. Mark Lyons was also the 6th man.

(Had just gone through and read this whole thread)

[XU2011]

Though the leadership situation is in flux, I do like the fact that the team emits positive energy and not the negative punk stuff that came with Tu, Lyons and Kenny.

I disagree Tu was negative and a punk... Lyons on the other hand you are right.

But I'd rather have their, in your mind, negative and punk attitudes and win at the high level, win conference championships every year and go to the Sweet 16 every year...... than what we have now of no post-season, losing 3 straight and the might BG Falcons (a bad MAC teams) taking us to overtime.

Part of the problem is THIS team is not positive. Have you watched Justin Martin play? What about our captains Philmore and Stainbrook? Both playing shitty, Stainbrook whining all throughout the Bahamas, Philmore walking off the floor. No emotion on the bench from either.

[XU2011]

And how on earth does Dee Davis get 5 rebounds more than Philmore???

Philmore is an absolute waste. No offensive threat- AT ALL. Way too slow to play any defense. Can't elevate at all to get a rebound. Not sure why Mack insists on having him out there.

[bigdiggins]

And how on earth does Dee Davis get 5 rebounds more than Philmore???

Philmore was given credit for a rebound Davis actually corralled. Watch the tape, Philmore did not get a rebound.

[XU2011]

The most effective lineup that Xavier had in the game...the WHOLE game...was either Dee or Brandon or Myles (2 of the 3, but mostly Dee & Myles), Semaj on the wing, Jimmy Farr and Isaiah. I'm going back and "check the tape" for a future post, but a lot of good things happened with that group on the floor.

What name is missing?

It was that lineup with Brandon at PG and Reynolds instead of Philmore. That was the lineup that led us to the 12 or 13 point lead in the first half.... before our meltdown right before half.

Philmore had 15 points. Great. Many of those were nice passes from our guards that all Philmore had to do was make a lay-up. He has no offensive moves. He can't create anything for himself offensively. When he tries, he gets rejected by guys shorter than he is like he did at the end of regulation because he can't jump. And a combined 6 (SIX) rebounds from our starting 4 and 5 men? Nice. Oh, and he's a total liability on defense he's so slow. We all saw that pretty clearly in the Bahamas.

[xu82]

Philmore was given credit for a rebound Davis actually corralled. Watch the tape, Philmore did not get a rebound.

Ha! I didn't realize that! How can you be a big on the floor for 23 minutes +/- and not have a single ball bounce your way? Not trying to be harsh, but a positive view is we need some of the young guys to curb their enthusiasm so the can keep the fouls down and get more minutes.

[Juice]

Philmore is an absolute waste. No offensive threat- AT ALL. Way too slow to play any defense. Can't elevate at all to get a rebound. Not sure why Mack insists on having him out there.

He was big in the 2nd half of today's game. He's not the greatest, but I think "waste" is a bit of an overstatement.

[XU2011]

Not sure what you mean by "big"? Made 3 layups the guards set up for him? Got blocked and had a turnover in the last 2 mins when game was on the line when he tried to make an actual move? Had NO rebounds? Not ONE? Too slow for any decent defense?

[Charlesbt4]

I disagree Tu was negative and a punk... Lyons on the other hand you are right.

But I'd rather have their, in your mind, negative and punk attitudes and win at the high level, win conference championships every year and go to the Sweet 16 every year...... than what we have now of no post-season, losing 3 straight and the might BG Falcons (a bad MAC teams) taking us to overtime.

Part of the problem is THIS team is not positive. Have you watched Justin Martin play? What about our captains Philmore and Stainbrook? Both playing shitty, Stainbrook whining all throughout the Bahamas, Philmore walking off the floor. No emotion on the bench from either.

Amen. Plus, as you said, I do not believe Holloway had an even remotely negative attitude.

Also, for those that are saying they would take Christon over Holloway, there's another point to consider - Christon played 4 years in high school and 1 additional year at a prep school, while Holloway played 4 years in high school. That means that developmentally, if you're comparing the two, Christon's season (this year) should be compared to Holloway's junior season. For those that might have forgotten, that year Holloway averaged 19.7 points, 5 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, while shooting 42.4% from the field, 34.5% from the three point line, and 87% from the free throw line. Additionally, he was selected conference basketball player of the year; led the team to a regular-season championship; helped the team qualify for the NCAA tournament; and recorded two triple-doubles. Finally, he was named third-team All-American by the Associated Press, Fox Sports, and Sporting News magazine.

I said it once and I'll say it again, Christon is overrated. He is a great athlete, and possesses incredible size, speed, and agility, etc. However, he is an average basketball player, at best, for reasons that are so many they shall go nameless.

[RealDeal]

Tu was not a punk, Tu was a champion.

[GoMuskies]

I said it once and I'll say it again, Christon is overrated. He is a great athlete, and possesses incredible size, speed, and agility, etc. However, he is an average basketball player, at best, for reasons that are so many they shall go nameless.

You are smoking some strong stuff.

[XUFan09]

Also, for those that are saying they would take Christon over Holloway, there's another point to consider - Christon played 4 years in high school and 1 additional year at a prep school, while Holloway played 4 years in high school. That means that developmentally, if you're comparing the two, Christon's season (this year) should be compared to Holloway's junior season.

For this to be a worthwhile comparison, one must agree with this premise: One year of prep school is just the same as one year of high-D1 ball in terms of experience/development. No one is seriously going to accept that premise, therefore the overall comparison is weak.

That doesn't even take into account that Tu was physically more mature and more built as an 18-year-old starting college ball than Semaj was as a 19-year-old starting college ball, which is normal when you consider that people mature at different rates.