Justin Martin

[xavierj]

Fire away....

And is Dallas Latos pregnant? Or is she normally a little thick?

[gladdenguy]

Ha I saw her at Holy Grail and she looks like a blimp.

As for JMart. He looks like a different player with tons more confidence. Unbelievable turn around. Good for him.

[Juice]

Fire away....

And is Dallas Latos pregnant? Or is she normally a little thick?
I think she has gained some weight.

1330

She no longer looks like this.

[nuts4xu]

I was standing next to Xavierj when we saw the thick broad. She is not ugly....not skinny either.

[xavierj]

I was standing next to Xavierj when we saw the thick broad. She is not ugly....not skinny either.

No doubt nuts.

[Snipe]

Justin Martin reminds me that we remember these kids as seniors. We don't tend to remember the rough parts along the way.

Justin Martin is an upperclassman for the first time this year. He is starting to come into his own, and really be comfortable in the space. I have seen this before. Good things are happening. I am proud of him.

Looks like he could have a great Big East Campaign.

[sirthought]

he was a warrior tonight

[Strange Brew]

Justin Martin reminds me that we remember these kids as seniors. We don't tend to remember the rough parts along the way.

Justin Martin is an upperclassman for the first time this year. He is starting to come into his own, and really be comfortable in the space. I have seen this before. Good things are happening. I am proud of him.

Looks like he could have a great Big East Campaign.

So true, Tyrone Hill as a freshman could barely catch a basketball and he turned out to have an ok career (James Farr could see similar development). I admit, Justin frustrated me because I'm spoiled by X's terrific trajectory over the past decade. He's a solid player with skills that could earn him great money. We'll just have to see in what league HE decides he'll play.

[XU-PA]

Justin is such a unique individual. so even keeled, and so talented. Just looks like the Joe Lunchbox guy, does his job day in and day out without really making a big stink out of it, the kind of guy who you'd like as your best friend, always there.
Now inject a huge dose of confidence in his shot and wow, the guy is lighting it up, diving on the floor, mixing it up for boards, really making his mark in the conference!

Also, nice to have the Latos family as Xavier fans, hope the reds players and families make a habit of it.

[UnCaged]

I think a lot of people tend to forget how well he was playing before the concussion last year and from what I've seen in other sports, some of these really mess you up. I remember watching Justin in one of his games in HS (at the Vermont academy he played at I believe) and he was just uber confidant and athletic.

Last night, and honestly for the past 4-5 games, he's been a completely different player. That dribble along the baseline and pull up for the long jumper was something NBA players would have applauded. I'm hoping this is the guy he is, a constant contributor and with his defensive willingness and rebounding ability, an absolutely huge cog in this machine.

Big East, please Smell the Glove.

[Smails]

Had the opportunity to sit next to her in the diamond seats during a game last season that Matt was pitching. First things first...shes a big lady...thick. She's also one rough broad, straight out of the trailer. Oh and she only refers to Matt as "BABY!" She wasn't a snot or anything like that, just a rough, loud, party girl who happened to get her hooks into a MLB player at an early age.

On topic- I love it when Xavier players make the "jump to extremes, lack of perspective, naysaying, not understanding the player deveopment process" Xavier fans look silly.

See: Davis, Dee Martin, Justin Farr, James

[MD Muskie]

Last night when Marquette made their run to get the game close and tie it, and Martin was on the bench, I found myself saying for the first time in his career here "man we really need to get J-Mart back in the game and quick." I then immediately thought wow that's the first time I have said that about him. What a change he has made over the past couple years, and his improved play only helps Christon that much more.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

He did play a great game and got jobbed on that late elbow.

[bleedXblue]

I was worng about Martin and have no problem admitting it. He's a big reason why we're winning.

I do have one concern. He seems rack up the T's. Two last night I think. He's got to learn to walk away.

[MD Muskie]

I thought Reynolds picked up the first T for blocking the shot and trash talking after the whistle.

[XUFan09]

I was worng about Martin and have no problem admitting it. He's a big reason why we're winning.

I do have one concern. He seems rack up the T's. Two last night I think. He's got to learn to walk away.

He couldn't have had two. He would have been ejected. Jalen got one earlier in the game, so maybe you're thinking of that. Not that I entirely disagree with your point; Martin probably has more Flagrant 1s than anyone else on the team. That one was really ticky-tack though.

[ammtd34]

That flagrant was dumb. He was actually leaning away from the guy. The double technical was stupid, too. That's a nothing play. There was honestly more contact and intent when Gardner and Semaj got tangled up.

[kyxu]

I don't think the call was as bad as the rule itself. I think the rule is if it's an elbow to the face, regardless of intent, it's an automatic flagrant 1, hence the call. The official was just enforcing the dumb rule, though I could be mistaken.

[RoseyMuskie]

I was worng about Martin and have no problem admitting it. He's a big reason why we're winning.

I do have one concern. He seems rack up the T's. Two last night I think. He's got to learn to walk away.

If he had two, he would've been ejected...

I believe he has two for the season, one for jawing against BG if memory serves correct.

I think his technical last night was complete garbage. I was at the game so I didn't see a replay, but the elbow swing seemed pretty innocuous. I think the case can be made that by definition that is a T or Flagrant I, but by definition, shouldn't MU have been called for an intentional foul? Oh Jim Burr...

Justin still has his head scratching moments, but his confidence is now palpable, and his performance shows this. He's rebounding well, playing good defense, and just showing a great sense of hustle.

[mistabeecee41]

big ups to j-mart, philmore and dee. All 3have been blasted on both boards (myself included) over the last year and both have turned it around at the same time.

Speaking of turning it around. We're playing our best ball of the year and our sharpshooter hasn't hit a 3 in 4 games. If Dee, J-Mart and Philmore can stay consistent AND myles gets his shot back? watch out.

[paulxu]

Just don't take your elbow swing above the shoulders. Solves all the problems.

[ammtd34]

Just don't take your elbow swing above the shoulders. Solves all the problems.

Easier said than done when you grab a rebound in traffic. You're taught to protect the ball in the very way guys are getting called for flagrant fouls.

[MHettel]

JMart has definately been playing better.

What we need him to do is really play within himself. He's a shooter, whose shot was previously not falling. Now that the shot is falling (and improving his confidence), he's starting to do a bit more ballhanding, and trying to finish on the break and those types of things. he simply doesnt have the handles or agility / dexterity necessary to do those things, and it still often results in something bad happening (case in point late in second half he ballhandled in the halfcourt and turned it over which led to a fast break lapup while Dee and Semaj both were on the court and should have handled the ball).

Martin needs to keep his confidence HIGH with his shot, and focus on playing within himself. This team has alot of guys that can do alot of stuff offensively, and if they each stay within their games we can limit mistakes and win alot of ballgames.

Also, his FT shooting has been really good lately.

[smileyy]

Easier said than done when you grab a rebound in traffic. You're taught to protect the ball in the very way guys are getting called for flagrant fouls.

It'll probably get easier once players have spent their whole lives being taught not to swing their elbows above their shoulders, lest they get called for a flagrant foul. Most of these guys have only been playing under these rules for a season or two.

[Masterofreality]

I have never been so happy to be so wrong. .

After the BAH-hamas:

"-Justin Martin: Uh, no remaining upside. But when he plays well, like against Iowa for a while, this team flourishes. Just goes to show how important the 3 is to your offense. Cannot EVER make a big 3 when you need one and cannot stay focused. Was schooled by Roy Marble of Iowa. Maybe the most frustrating player I have ever seen at X. His Role: Sub 3 but would rather see Semaj in there mostly."

JMart is playing solid basketball in all respects, scoring, rebounding and defense. Superb.

By the way. I'm also very happy to be so wrong about Dee Davis who I said whose role going forward was to be "backup point guard".

I love being made to look like an ass when Xavier wins. I ain't proud.

[XU-PA]

He did play a great game and got jobbed on that late elbow.

Officials hands are really tied. make contact with that elbow above the shoulders, flagrant 1. no allowance for intent or even in last night case when the "fouled" players leaned in and intiated the contact.

It's something that every player has to unlearn, taught for years to "chin" that ball with elbows out to keep hands from latching on, if there's any coach out there still teaching it that way, someone please tell them to stop!

[SkyWalker]

I don't think the call was as bad as the rule itself. I think the rule is if it's an elbow to the face, regardless of intent, it's an automatic flagrant 1, hence the call. The official was just enforcing the dumb rule, though I could be mistaken.

I absolutely agree with this. In last night's situation, the defender is basically doing everything possible to aggressively rip the ball from Martin and does not care if a foul is called. Justin is just trying to protect the ball albeit aggressively. I think the two aggressive plays should just offset and no Flagrant foul should be called. But that is the rule for now (a dumb rule) that the officials needed to enforce.

[Thor in 204]

JMart has definately been playing better.

What we need him to do is really play within himself. He's a shooter, whose shot was previously not falling. Now that the shot is falling (and improving his confidence), he's starting to do a bit more ballhanding, and trying to finish on the break and those types of things. he simply doesnt have the handles or agility / dexterity necessary to do those things, and it still often results in something bad happening (case in point late in second half he ballhandled in the halfcourt and turned it over which led to a fast break lapup while Dee and Semaj both were on the court and should have handled the ball).

Martin needs to keep his confidence HIGH with his shot, and focus on playing within himself. This team has alot of guys that can do alot of stuff offensively, and if they each stay within their games we can limit mistakes and win alot of ballgames.

Also, his FT shooting has been really good lately.



I disagree about his ballhandling in that although he's not a sure thing bringing the ball upcourt, he has finished several breaks nicely and can also get into the lane and to the rim. He has a knack for driving down the right side of the lane and finishing from about the low block. He knows how to vary speed as he gets into the lane and uses his length to get past or around defenders. If he gets into tight defense he's pretty good at getting fouled, and as you have noted, is making his free throws. I hope he gets more confident and asserts himself more on offense by taking the ball into the paint and running a lane on fast breaks and finishing.

[gladdenguy]

Being wrong about a Xavier player when he surprises me for the better may be one of my favorite things in life.

[bobbiemcgee]

Being wrong about a Xavier player when he surprises me for the better may be one of my favorite things in life.

Yeah, I like the all new JMart thread a lot better.

[vee4xu]

Little help here. Justin Martin started the second half, but it seems to be that Mack have him to hook before the 16:00 timeout. Then, we didn't see him again in the second half until Semaj got his fourth foul with about 4:00 left to play. Am I correct? If so, wonder if Mack would have even put Martin back in had Semaj not committed his fourth foul? When Martin did go in for Semaj, he turned the ball over in the lane by traveling. Then, he missed that bunny by almost air balling that layup in front of the rim. At that point, X was down four and that bunny would have cut it to two. Instead, Stenger gets the rebound, gets fouled, missed two foul shots and Seton Hall goes the other way and buries a three. Thus, what could have been a two point game is now down 7. Game, set, match.

Martin just seemed totally out of it yesterday and I believe Mack thought likewise, which is why he got spend time with Mr. Pine, as MOR likes to say. Deservedly so!

[XMuskieFTW]

bump.

I mean how much has his improvement over the past year meant to this team? We'd be nowhere near a tournament this year without that improvement. Huge game to add to his already impressive Big East campaign. We will dance!

[American X]

Justin martin is a baller.

[mistabeecee41]

LOVE IT. absolutely love it. and to think at some points, people around here were actively campaigning for the guy to seek a graduate program elsewhere for his 5th year.

[xavierj]

LOVE IT. absolutely love it. and to think at some points, people around here were actively campaigning for the guy to seek a graduate program elsewhere for his 5th year.

Justin has a ton of talent and the coaches knew that. He just Had to figure it out. He played like a pro today. If he plays like that Xavier will be hard to beat.

[American X]

One player on the floor today looked like a Wooden Award candidate and his name was Justin Martin*.


*Semaj Christon was awesomely worthy also.

[RealDeal]

Wow, just wow.

[SemajParlor]

Thank you based Justin.

[xsteve1]

LOVE IT. absolutely love it. and to think at some points, people around here were actively campaigning for the guy to seek a graduate program elsewhere for his 5th year.

Because a lot of people are idiots. The people who bash Dee are clueless as well.

[Snipe]

What an amazing game from that talented young man. He just keeps getting better. Justin Martin has a high ceiling.

[xu95]

I hope he doesn't go somewhere else for his 4th year

[xu82]

Amazing game for Martin! That ever-so-brief hesitation he seemed to have early in the season is gone. No need to think, just PLAY. Play confidently because you've got what it takes! It's great to see other players stepping up and taking over a game to show we can beat good teams in a lot of different ways.

[The_Mack_Pack]

He's showing that classic Xavier upperclassmen improvement. Good for Jmart and especially good for Xavier!

[XUBBall644]

JMart is becoming my favorite player. I love his dry sense of humor evidenced in post game interviews. Seems like a good guy and fine representative of the program.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

I hope he doesn't go somewhere else for his 4th year

There is no reason that JMart would play elsewhere next year. He is becoming a favorite here and he looks and acts happy this year. He has become a big contributor to this team and he knows it. I am sure he is enjoying the respect and praises that he so rightfully deserves. CM surely would not want to lose him.

[SixFig]

Looking forward to seeing Justin take Trevon Bluiett under his wing. Should be a dynamic combo next year at the 3 spot

[Art Vandelay]

He's showing that classic Xavier upperclassmen improvement. Good for Jmart and especially good for Xavier!

this ^^

I know we've had some awfully good Sr's come through this program through the years, but I have a feeling JMart is gonna be one of the best we've seen next year.

[xu95]

There is no reason that JMart would play elsewhere next year. He is becoming a favorite here and he looks and acts happy this year. He has become a big contributor to this team and he knows it. I am sure he is enjoying the respect and praises that he so rightfully deserves. CM surely would not want to lose him.

I agree. I just hope he doesn't see Remy and Trevon as a threat and decide some place else would be better. I am in no way implying that I think he will.

[RoseyMuskie]

I agree. I just hope he doesn't see Remy and Trevon as a threat and decide some place else would be better. I am in no way implying that I think he will.

With Remy playing the two, and the possibility of Martin sliding to the four in addition to the three, I think that's a non-issue.

[xu95]

Remy will be playing some 3 next year if Semaj stays. I would love to see Martin play some 4 though.

[TUclutch]

Remy will be playing some 3 next year if Semaj stays. I would love to see Martin play some 4 though.

Think of this starting lineup. Semaj, Remy, JMart, Reynolds, Stain. Davis Davis Bluiett Randolph, Farr, Macura off the bench

[GoMuskies]

At least one of those guys has to leave. Not enough scholarships. And it's only one if you assume that Richards is leaving. If Richards stays, two of those you listed have to go.

[xu95]

Think of this starting lineup. Semaj, Remy, JMart, Reynolds, Stain. Davis Davis Bluiett Randolph, Farr, Macura off the bench

Davis is second in the league in assists and he doesn't even start on your team? I would be VERY surprised if Davis doesn't start next year.

[xu82]

Well, in terms of problems, this is a nice one to have. I'll trust our coach to manage things just fine. (I'm always in such a good and generous mood after a nice win)

[BandAid]

Semaj is the belle of the ball. He would start no matter what if he stays. I think Abell will be better at the two than Dee will be at the one. Plus, that allows Semaj to play his natural position.

But it doesn't matter because Semaj will go pro.

My way-too-early predicted lineup: Dee, Abell, Martin, Reynolds, Stainbrook

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Semaj is the belle of the ball. He would start no matter what if he stays. I think Abell will be better at the two than Dee will be at the one. Plus, that allows Semaj to play his natural position.

But it doesn't matter because Semaj will go pro.

My way-too-early predicted lineup: Dee, Abell, Martin, Reynolds, Stainbrook

I agree.

[vee4xu]

My sources tell me (you know who you are) that if Semaj is not a lottery pick that he will return to Xavier. I ain't not talent evaluator or NBA front office exec, but as good as Semaj is (an make no mistake, he is good), I don't think that he is currently a 2014 NBA lottery pick. If someone else does believe this, please enlighten me.

[Masterofreality]

My sources tell me (you know who you are) that if Semaj is not a lottery pick that he will return to Xavier. I ain't not talent evaluator or NBA front office exec, but as good as Semaj is (an make no mistake, he is good), I don't think that he is currently a 2014 NBA lottery pick. If someone else does believe this, please enlighten me.

"Lottery", or First Round pick, Vee? If you're a first rounder, you get a guaranteed contract for 2 years with a 3rd year club option.. "Lottery" means that you're picked in the first 14 picks. Big difference.

[waggy]

He's not going to leave he's not a lottery pick? Don't get me wrong, but good luck with that..

If you're a 1st rounder you should go. That's my belief.

[SemajParlor]

This draft class is loaded, so much depth. If this was last year's class Semaj would have had a decent chance at being a lottery pick.

[LA Muskie]

My sources tell me (you know who you are) that if Semaj is not a lottery pick that he will return to Xavier. I ain't not talent evaluator or NBA front office exec, but as good as Semaj is (an make no mistake, he is good), I don't think that he is currently a 2014 NBA lottery pick. If someone else does believe this, please enlighten me.

I heard somewhat similar things this weekend as well, although I think it's more like projected top 20-24 than just lottery. I don't think he wants to risk falling into the 2nd round.

I'm torn on where he might go. Not so much because of his performance but more so that of others. For example, I think Embiid and Ennis are two guys who probably leap-frogged him (although I don't really know what the preseason stuff said so maybe they were already up there).

[The_Mack_Pack]

A lot of mock drafts have him as a late first rounder and I've seen a couple that place him in the second round. A big tournament performance would do a lot for his draft stock but if his stock stays the same then I think it'd be too risky to go.

[vee4xu]

"Lottery", or First Round pick, Vee? If you're a first rounder, you get a guaranteed contract for 2 years with a 3rd year club option.. "Lottery" means that you're picked in the first 14 picks. Big difference.

Lottery.

[bleedXblue]

The draft this year is somewhat weak at PG. If he waits another year, there's always the chance that he won't go as high as he's projected this year. First round picks get an auto 3 year deal that will make him millions. As much as I want him to stay and knowing what we know about his families financial situation, I would be shocked if he doesn't leave.

[vee4xu]

It is all conjecture at this point, but fun to discuss and speculate. Semaj is a good player and he seems to be getting better as the season goes on. Only he knows what he'll end up doing and surely he will get good counsel and do what is right for him and his family. No doubt there are things he could get better at if he stays one more year. But, basketball is a business so he has to strike while the iron is hot. It could be he will put his name into the draft, but not hire an agent. This way if things don't look like they are swinging in his favor, he can retract his name.

It's going to be what it is going to be. He seems like a good kid, so whatever he decides, I wish him all the best.

[MADXSTER]

Isn't this the Justin Martin thread??

[vee4xu]

Meh, not the first time at thread has meandered off topic into another direction.

[xu82]

Isn't this the Justin Martin thread??

That name sounds familiar. Who does he play for? Please forgive our short attention span - and Justin is a STUD! This is how Tourney rolls happen... things just gel and the team get hot at the right time. Let's hope this is just the beginning!

[XU 87]

What an amazing game from that talented young man. He just keeps getting better. Justin Martin has a high ceiling.

Good things happen when you work hard and start playing with some confidence.

Next up- Brandon Randolph - at least in the playing with confidence part.

As for Martin, until about 10 games into this season, I figured he was a step slow, below average shooter with limited offensive and defensive ability. Now I keep watching a guy who's rebounding, shooting the ball well, and taking the ball to the hoop.

[xu82]

Next up- Brandon Randolph - at least in the playing with confidence part.


All in good time. The message has been shared on various threads about how we develop players and remember them for how they finish as seniors. Brandon started strong then looked a bit like a freshman. Freshman will do that. I trust our staff to bring him along like the others. I am happy to be reminded about his spot on the roster. He will get his chance and he will develop as the others have. We have a lot of freshmen next year. Great prospects, but freshmen.

[xuwin]

Isn't this the Justin Martin thread??

Justin who?

[XU-PA]

For Semaj, if this is accurate
http://www.cbssports.com/nba/draft/prospect-rankings/point-guards
Then he's probably jumping.

For Justin, WOW! What a season so far!!!!!

[xu82]

For Semaj, if this is accurate
http://www.cbssports.com/nba/draft/prospect-rankings/point-guards
Then he's probably jumping.

For Justin, WOW! What a season so far!!!!!
Are you supposed to be talking about Justin Martin on this thread? Tread carefully...

[Juice]

For Semaj, if this is accurate
http://www.cbssports.com/nba/draft/prospect-rankings/point-guards
Then he's probably jumping.

For Justin, WOW! What a season so far!!!!!

Parrish didn't include Dante Exum who will be the #1 point guard taken.

[bigdiggins]

Parrish didn't include Dante Exum who will be the #1 point guard taken.

Exum is listed as the #1 sg

[LA Muskie]

Parrish didn't include Dante Exum who will be the #1 point guard taken.

That's because he had him listed as a SG (at #1).

Regardless those rankings are about 3 months old now. Semaj is probably still a Top 6 PG, but that could still mean borderline 1st Round depending on team needs and strategies with international players.

[brownlavender]

Guess to get back on track here justin martin is pretty bad ass

[LA Muskie]

Guess to get back on track here justin martin is pretty bad ass

Yes. Yes he sure as hell is.

[GoMuskies]

Guy's like a much (MUCH) better version of Jeff Robinson. Just teases you with what he COULD be one day and then makes you scratch your head the next.

Hopefully only "good Justin" shows up the rest of the way.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Anybody know why Martin was disciplined yesterday and not allowed to start?

[bleedXblue]

Guy's like a much (MUCH) better version of Jeff Robinson. Just teases you with what he COULD be one day and then makes you scratch your head the next.

Hopefully only "good Justin" shows up the rest of the way.

I don't see him ever being a consistent 10-15 ppg, 7-8 RPG contributor......

For whatever reason he shows up and/or doesnt show up...............

[Milhouse]

Dude is averaging 14 points and like 5 boards in BE play.

He has bad games every once in a while but he shows up way more often than not. I bet he's been in double figures in every BE game but 3/4

[The_Mack_Pack]

We'll see how he bounces back against Nova. We need a big game out of him and probably a lot of minutes out of him from the 4 spot.

[casualfan]

We'll see how he bounces back against Nova. We need a big game out of him and probably a lot of minutes out of him from the 4 spot.

I'm already having nightmares about what Jayvaughn Pinkston is going to do to whoever we have playing the four.

[The_Mack_Pack]

I'm already having nightmares about what Jayvaughn Pinkston is going to do to whoever we have playing the four.

I'm more concerned about James Bell who absolutely killed us last time. We have no one who can matchup with him.

[xufan2434]

I'm already having nightmares about what Jayvaughn Pinkston is going to do to whoever we have playing the four.

Haha, now this is actually laughable because I too have nightmares about this. Pinkston gets every board it seems like and able to finish. I'm hoping he is a perfect example of what Jalen Reynolds can be and more.

JMart has to be the one to guard Bell like he did McBuckets. He's the only one with the size and ability to stay with him when he really wants to. Just for the love of God don't leave him open from the corner. It's the only place he loves to shoot.

[XUFan09]

Guy's like a much (MUCH) better version of Jeff Robinson. Just teases you with what he COULD be one day and then makes you scratch your head the next.

Hopefully only "good Justin" shows up the rest of the way.

Even with the caveat of "(MUCH) better," I just don't see this. Martin has been one of the most consistent players on the team in Big East play. He simply had a bad game.

[casualfan]

Haha, now this is actually laughable because I too have nightmares about this. Pinkston gets every board it seems like and able to finish. I'm hoping he is a perfect example of what Jalen Reynolds can be and more.

JMart has to be the one to guard Bell like he did McBuckets. He's the only one with the size and ability to stay with him when he really wants to. Just for the love of God don't leave him open from the corner. It's the only place he loves to shoot.

I've watched Pinkston for a few years now and I'm not sure I've seen many guys as skilled as he is at his size.

I think Jalen is going to be a really nice player at X and he may even turn out to be much better then Pinkston (I think he has a higher ceiling), but they are totally different types of players IMHO.

[GoMuskies]

Even with the caveat of "(MUCH) better," I just don't see this. Martin has been one of the most consistent players on the team in Big East play. He simply had a bad game.

It's the discipline issue more than anything. He obviously did something stupid at a really bad time. Reminds me of something stupid Robinson might have done (foul on purpose at the end of a tie game).

[XUFan09]

It's the discipline issue more than anything. He obviously did something stupid at a really bad time. Reminds me of something stupid Robinson might have done (foul on purpose at the end of a tie game).

Ah ok, but those are different, as one is an on-court issue and the other an off-court issue.

[GoMuskies]

Ah ok, but those are different, as one is an on-court issue and the other an off-court issue.

The 35 footer he chucked up in the middle of a terrible shooting night didn't help either.

[The_Mack_Pack]

The 35 footer he chucked up in the middle of a terrible shooting night didn't help either.

At least he realized they needed quick scores near the end while everyone else was waiting for the shot clock to wind down before doing anything..

[GoMuskies]

There were 9 minutes left in the game.

[XUFan09]

At least he realized they needed quick scores near the end while everyone else was waiting for the shot clock to wind down before doing anything..

That drove me crazy, but Go is right, there was plenty of time when he chucked that up. Lol I do the same thing when I play NBA2K12 and the game isn't going well, and at those much lower stakes, it's clearly 80% frustration and 20% desperate hope.

[The_Mack_Pack]

There were 9 minutes left in the game.

My bad, thought there was 4-5 minutes left when he took that one.

[LA Muskie]

It's the discipline issue more than anything. He obviously did something stupid at a really bad time. Reminds me of something stupid Robinson might have done (foul on purpose at the end of a tie game).
He had the game of his life in our biggest win of the season. My guess (just a guess) is that he enjoyed it too much. If that's the case, it's not good but far worse things have happened.

[XU-PA]

This young man needs kudos from us this morning.
19 points 4 boards, no turnovers only 2 fouls and 38 minutes on the floor.
JMart came to NYC to play!!!!!

[Juice]

This young man needs kudos from us this morning.
19 points 4 boards, no turnovers only 2 fouls and 38 minutes on the floor.
JMart came to NYC to play!!!!!

He has become one of the more consistent players on the team, which is something even the biggest of JMart fans didn't expect.

[XUGRAD80]

He's had himself a very fine BE season, and had a nice game last night. Hard to believe that he didn't make at least HM Big East, based on the numbers he has put up in BE play. Certainly hit some big shots last night. Been a pleasure to watch him develop into a key member of the team.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

JMart is going to be our #1 star next year, assuming that SC will be gone. What a big change in attitude and performance he exhibited this year. X would not be dancing without him that's for sure.

[xuwin]

This young man needs kudos from us this morning.
19 points 4 boards, no turnovers only 2 fouls and 38 minutes on the floor.
JMart came to NYC to play!!!!!

Zero turnovers from Martin and Dee Davis was the key to the win. They were both focused for the full 40 minutes with no mental lapses.

[GoMuskies]

Martin was awesome last night. One or two shots I didn't like (one of which led to a breakout dunk), but that's going to happen when you're shooting as well as he is right now. Almost all of his good looks are going down right now. The only time he seems to miss is when he takes a bad shot (which I guess plays into the old adage is that the only bad shot is one that you miss!).

Let's hope he brings it back to back nights in NYC.

[X-man]

JMart is going to be our #1 star next year, assuming that SC will be gone. What a big change in attitude and performance he exhibited this year. X would not be dancing without him that's for sure.

Bad assumption...SC will be back.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Bad assumption...SC will be back.

I am sure SC would much rather be making the big $ next year than playing college basketball. I hope he gets what he deserves.

[XUFan09]

I am sure SC would much rather be making the big $ next year than playing college basketball. I hope he gets what he deserves.

Semaj now gets his chance to Dance. If he has a big tournament, he'll be projected solidly in the first round, at which point I bet he takes the opportunity. It's a win-win for Xavier fans: Semaj leads us on a tournament run or we're LOADED next year.

[Masterofreality]

I have never been so happy to be so wrong about an anlysis I made after the Bahamas.

I have my Lenten Sackcloth on and wearing ashes. Use me as a Voo-Doo pin cushion. I don't care.

Pain is right next to pleasure.

[Caveat]

Bad assumption...SC will be back.

Tough to tell, at this point. Most NBA mocks I've seen have him being taken somewhere in the mid 20s. The 2014-2015 NBA rookie pay scale for a pick in that range is $1.3M (120% of base $1.09M at pick #23) to $756,000 (80% of base $946,000 at pick #27).

That's great money, but it's not "blow you away" money -- and it's also far enough down the board that there would be SOME worry about falling out of the first round entirely (and remember, only 1st round picks get guaranteed contracts in the NBA). If Semaj comes back, works on his outside shooting in the offseason, and can improve himself into the 15-18 pick range, he'll be looking at lock-down guaranteed contract at over $1M per year.

Assuming Maj's draft status remains unchanged between now and the end of the tourney, he's going to have a difficult decision to make IMO.

[TUclutch]

Tough to tell, at this point. Most NBA mocks I've seen have him being taken somewhere in the mid 20s. The 2014-2015 NBA rookie pay scale for a pick in that range is $1.3M (120% of base $1.09M at pick #23) to $756,000 (80% of base $946,000 at pick #27).

That's great money, but it's not "blow you away" money -- and it's also far enough down the board that there would be SOME worry about falling out of the first round entirely (and remember, only 1st round picks get guaranteed contracts in the NBA). If Semaj comes back, works on his outside shooting in the offseason, and can improve himself into the 15-18 pick range, he'll be looking at lock-down guaranteed contract at over $1M per year.

Assuming Maj's draft status remains unchanged between now and the end of the tourney, he's going to have a difficult decision to make IMO.

I think its probably 60/40 he goes, and no one could fault him for leaving. With that said, IF he stays, XU has the potential to be a top 15 team. Semaj, Remy, JMart, Reynolds, and Stain starting. Bluiett, Davis, Davis, Randolph, Farr, Macura as the bench. That team is stacked.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Just having a couple of guys who you can count on coming off the bench would make this team so much better. The starting 5 right now is really good, the bench right now is a different story.

[Milhouse]

yeah i think we're all counting our chickens before they hatch here. I dont think we will be nearly as deep as we think next year. Can't really count of freshmen to contribute too much (look at this year) and our will be sophomore issues as well (sans reynolds of course)....

[Juice]

Tough to tell, at this point. Most NBA mocks I've seen have him being taken somewhere in the mid 20s. The 2014-2015 NBA rookie pay scale for a pick in that range is $1.3M (120% of base $1.09M at pick #23) to $756,000 (80% of base $946,000 at pick #27).

That's great money, but it's not "blow you away" money -- and it's also far enough down the board that there would be SOME worry about falling out of the first round entirely (and remember, only 1st round picks get guaranteed contracts in the NBA). If Semaj comes back, works on his outside shooting in the offseason, and can improve himself into the 15-18 pick range, he'll be looking at lock-down guaranteed contract at over $1M per year.

Assuming Maj's draft status remains unchanged between now and the end of the tourney, he's going to have a difficult decision to make IMO.

No rookie is making "blow you away" money. And no matter how long he stays, Semaj will never climb enough to be a top 10 pick. If I was him I would definitely leave. If he likes college/Xavier/Cincinnati, then by all means, stay. But his draft situation isn't necessarily going to change much if he stays another year or two. Players are just as likely to improve in the NBA that they are in college, might as well get paid for it.

[XUFan09]

yeah i think we're all counting our chickens before they hatch here. I dont think we will be nearly as deep as we think next year. Can't really count of freshmen to contribute too much (look at this year) and our will be sophomore issues as well (sans reynolds of course)....

This year, our bench consists of freshmen and a sophomore who had played 42 total minutes the previous season. Next year, our bench will consist of sophomores, freshmen, and possibly an upperclassman, depending on how the starting lineup shakes out.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[crolfes12]

Obviously a little bias, but I think it would be smart for him to stay another year. This years draft class is probably the best draft class since Lebron in '03. He can play on a terrific team and continue to improve his weaknesses. I wonder if Mack has thought about what would happen if he were to stay. That would make the squad 2 scholarships over. I think we can assume Richards is transferring, but not sure about the other spot.

[xsteve1]

No rookie is making "blow you away" money. And no matter how long he stays, Semaj will never climb enough to be a top 10 pick. If I was him I would definitely leave. If he likes college/Xavier/Cincinnati, then by all means, stay. But his draft situation isn't necessarily going to change much if he stays another year or two. Players are just as likely to improve in the NBA that they are in college, might as well get paid for it.

I agree that he probably isn't going to improve his stock by staying unless he goes Kemba Walker in the Big East tourney next year and leads X to a National Championship. For selfish reasons I'd love for him to stay because X could be real special next year if he does.

[TUclutch]

If Farr wasn't going to be our 3rd big by default next season, Id still be ok with him leaving

[xsteve1]

Back to the thread on JMart. I bet he gets 10 plus boards tonight.

[The_Mack_Pack]

If Farr wasn't going to be our 3rd big by default next season, Id still be ok with him leaving

I'm still not sold on him being the 3rd big. I can see Martin, Reynolds, and Stainbrook eating most of the minutes at the 4 or 5 unless we see a drastic improvement from Farr on defense. Who knows, maybe O'Mara or London can play some effective minutes next year too.

[TUclutch]

I'm still not sold on him being the 3rd big. I can see Martin, Reynolds, and Stainbrook eating most of the minutes at the 4 or 5 unless we see a drastic improvement from Farr on defense. Who knows, maybe O'Mara or London can play some effective minutes next year too.

This. I would take a lineup with JMart Remy and Bluiett all in with Stain and Semaj/Dee before any lineup with Farr. Both incoming bigs are more athletic thats for sure. Farr is way to stiff and doesn't jump overly well. Gonna be interested to see who doesnt come/leaves especially if Semaj stays. I think its probably a lock that Richards is done due to his injury and attitude prior to the injury. Dont see Myles or Randolph going anywhere. Maybe one of the three between Sumner, O'Mara, and London goes prep for a year?

[waggy]

Farr pushed out? NFW.

[TUclutch]

Farr pushed out? NFW.

I dont think it will happen because he is the 3rd big on the depth chart. With that said, unless he gets loads better, mostly on defense and a post game, he will not gain much PT.