Stainbrook

[markchal]

Had to turn off the game, was there any update about Stainbrook? It's pretty clear that this team is not very good without him, so basically any chance we have of being competitive in the next couple weeks depends on his knee, so I'm hoping it wasn't as bad as it probably was.

[LadyMuskie]

Joe and Byron have nothing yet.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Really hope it's not serious and he's not out for the season.

[LA Muskie]

Joe and Byron have nothing yet.
I very much doubt we'll hear anything until tomorrow at the earliest. He almost certainly will need an MRI, which likely wouldn't happen until they return to Cincy.

The good news: The worst knee injuries are not necessarily those that are most painful immediately.
The bad news: We've got very little wiggle room here. Even a sprain could have him out beyond the BE tournament.

We pretty much have to hope -- nay, pray -- that it is a bone or muscle bruise that can heal in a week to 10 days.

[xumuskies08]

I'm no doctor, but to me it looked like the knee bent inwards, which is MCL territory. I really hope that's not what it is, but I have a bad feeling.

[Xavgrad08]

I hope for Matt's sake is isn't serious. He has worked so hard, and I wanted him to experience the NCAA tournament.

[BandAid]

http://www.bringthenoiseuk.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Brian-Fantana.jpg

[Strange Brew]

I'm no doctor, but to me it looked like the knee bent inwards, which is MCL territory. I really hope that's not what it is, but I have a bad feeling.

It's also hyper-extension territory (fingers crossed). Hurts like hell but is only a couple of days off and a lot of Advil, at least that was the diagnosis when my knee went the wrong way a couple of times as a high schooler.

[XUGRAD80]

They did show him sitting in the seats behind the bench, drinking some red sports drink. He didn't appear to be in pain, but that doesn't mean anything.

I really hpe for his sake that he is Ok. He has worked to hard to have his season end like this.

[THRILLHOUSE]

Mack says they hope it's just an MCL sprain, but don't know anything yet.

[Emp]

He gets steady points, but it how he compliments the rest of the offense that will be missed most if he's out. His presence gives our 3pfg shooters more open looks, and he passes so well. All karma and good vibes it's something minimal.

[markchal]

Best case with him is still not having him until the NCAA tournament...which means, barring a miracle, we're looking at an 11 or 12 seed. I just hope it's not a tear because that would affect next year.

[casualfan]

Shannon Russell ‏@slrussell 4m
Chris Mack on Matt Stainbrook: "I won’t know for sure until he sees our doctor. We’re hopeful that it’s maybe just an MCL strain." #Xavier

Michael DeCourcy ‏@tsnmike 1m
MT “@slrussell: Chris Mack on Matt Stainbrook: "Won't know until he sees doctor. Hopeful maybe just MCL strain." If worse usually know.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Xavier cannot lose the next two without Stainbrook. Have to prove to the committee that this team can win without him.

[Xavier]

When Offense is best it ran through stain, really tough. Hope it's just a tear and can find a way back this year.

[SixFig]

Situation reminds me of when Brian Thornton went down. Thought season was over until team rallied to win A-10 tourney. Here's hoping to catch some of that

[XUFan09]

Shannon Russell ‏@slrussell 4m
Chris Mack on Matt Stainbrook: "I won’t know for sure until he sees our doctor. We’re hopeful that it’s maybe just an MCL strain." #Xavier

Michael DeCourcy ‏@tsnmike 1m
MT “@slrussell: Chris Mack on Matt Stainbrook: "Won't know until he sees doctor. Hopeful maybe just MCL strain." If worse usually know.

MCL strain? Did he mean "sprain"? Because when I Googled "MCL strain," I only got results for sprains.

[XUFan09]

Xavier cannot lose the next two without Stainbrook. Have to prove to the committee that this team can win without him.

Yup, and losing this game didn't help their case.

[SixFig]

Don't know if this website is crap of not but here goes...

http://www.rushortho.com/answer_md.cfm?quid=59

n most cases, a torn MCL will not require surgery. MCL injuries are graded 1, 2 and 3.

Grade 1 tears are considered mild sprains. Treatment consists of icing, physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications. Most patients can get back to pre-injury level of activity without difficulty.

Grade 2 tears are moderate to partial tears of the MCL. A brace is usually recommended to provide stability to the knee. You may or may not require crutches. The remainder of treatment is the same as a Grade 1 injury. Recovery may take four to six weeks.

Grade 3 tears are considered complete tears of the MCL. A consultation with an orthopaedic physician is usually recommended. If the injury is isolated to an MCL tear, patients may need to use crutches for a week or two. A brace would be used to provide stability to the knee during the healing process. The remainder of the treatment plan would be the same as Grade 1 or 2. Generally speaking, the recovery time may take two to four months of treatment.

[Porkopolis]

MCL strain? Did he mean "sprain"? Because when I Googled "MCL strain," I only got results for sprains.

A strain is an injury to a muscle/tendon, a sprain is an injury to a ligament. So, yes, he meant sprain.

[xu82]

They won't SAY anything, but they have a pretty good idea. My son tore his ACL and MCL. I got a call from the trainer. He told me what it was. I said "but of course we need the MRI to really know for sure". He said "the MRI will just confirm this". He was right. You don't KNOW for sure, but they have a pretty good idea. Let's just hope for the best. (And there are always surprises which is why they won't say anything)

[PM Thor]

There's a very easy test that they can do in terms of ACL/MCL injury right away. Now, preface this with I'm no doctor, but I'm an EMT but I've seen the test out in the field a couple of times and I've seen it done to my wife who had a major ACL injury. Basically, the trainers just support the lower leg above and below the knee line, then let it drop, if there is a visible knee "pop", as in, it misses a space and just falls, then there is a case of no support there. Try it yourself, have someone hold your leg, try to extend it while they stop supporting it. It won't just pop down, there is a progression. That's a good knee. In the video they showed tonight, which was limited I grant you, there was a visible pop in Matts knee. Go back and watch, and compare to this vid. It's later in the vid, 2:25 mark. Gawd I hope I'm wrong.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEQw-G1Vr18

[Cheesehead]

Stain tweeted he will be good

[Masterofreality]

This was just a horrible night.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Hopefully it's best case scenario and he can return by tourney time. The committee may give us the benefit of the doubt if he can come back at some point. Should probably just go ahead and beat Nova to remove all doubt though.

[Masterofreality]

@mstainbrook40: Thanks for all of the well wishes #XavierNation I'll be all good. Need to bounce back and be ready for Thursday. No hanging heads.

[LadyMuskie]

That has the ring of promise to it. . .

[xu82]

Gawd I hope I'm wrong.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEQw-G1Vr18

I certainly hope you're wrong, too. And I passed on the video, but thank you (that was a tough time for us - complete ACL and MCL tears). I drove my son the rehab before and after surgery several times a week and it is a test of character. Fortunately, Matt has proven to have that character with all the work he's done to get in shape since coming to X. Let's just hope and pray for the best. Modern medicine is amazing, though. My son was back on the court in a game situation 5 months after surgery. Far from 100%, but cleared to play. Just amazing!

[vee4xu]

This was just a horrible night.

Well, if there's any good news, the weather saved you from seeing it live. So, there's that.

[xu82]

@mstainbrook40: Thanks for all of the well wishes #XavierNation I'll be all good. Need to bounce back and be ready for Thursday. No hanging heads.

Encouraging indeed, but who's bouncing back? All the other guys? They certainly do need to bounce back! Does that include Matt? I suspect he's in cheerleader mode, but I hope not!

[Masterofreality]

Well, if there's any good news, the weather saved you from seeing it live. So, there's that.

Yeah, I guess, but I'm thinking the polar vortex that cancelled my flights also cancelled any long range shooting by Xavier too.

[Xcited]

@mstainbrook40: Thanks for all of the well wishes #XavierNation I'll be all good. Need to bounce back and be ready for Thursday. No hanging heads.

Great attitude! Wish it were the same on this board. You can't control what's already happened but keep your head up and prepare for the next round. If you keep looking to the past or have a negative outlook you're already defeated. There's definitely been up's and down's this season but this team has demonstrated an ability to hang together and not get down on themselves. After the Georgetown game it would have been easy for things to head south. Instead they hung together, bounced back and got ready for the next game. IMHO that's the least they deserve from the fans. Stain is the heart of this team and I wish him nothing but the best!

[XUFan09]

@mstainbrook40: Thanks for all of the well wishes #XavierNation I'll be all good. Need to bounce back and be ready for Thursday. No hanging heads.

!

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[Filthy Conservative]

So many knee specialists on this thread. Dr. Andrews and Dr.Job yield to your expertise.

Sent from my M886 using Tapatalk 2

[OTRMUSKIE]

I have to believe that if it was very serious he wouldn't be back on the bench smiling. Matt seems to have an competitive attitude and if his knee was really bad I just don't see him being out there smiling. Then again I don't know the kid and maybe he just always smiles. My gut tells me he will be back in a limited roll Thurs and at the very least he will be back for BET and at the super worse he will be back when we are in the NC game and at the very very worse he will be back next year. Oh Dear Lord please let Matt be okay!:chainedup:

[Strange Brew]

@mstainbrook40: Thanks for all of the well wishes #XavierNation I'll be all good. Need to bounce back and be ready for Thursday. No hanging heads.

Excellent.......Let's RIDE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Masterofreality]

Easy now.

Saw another tweet from someone who said that A) He was on crutches and couldn't put any weight on the leg, B) That he was sitting in front of someone with his leg elevated and ice on it, but saying "I'm fine".

[Xavier]

I have to believe that if it was very serious he wouldn't be back on the bench smiling. Matt seems to have an competitive attitude and if his knee was really bad I just don't see him being out there smiling.

Anytime you have to get an MRI to determine how serious the injury, it's serious enough. I'd be overjoyed if he can be in warm ups on Thursday

[markchal]

Even with a sprain he will miss Nova and the Big East tournament. What a crushing blow, right as we were getting momentum.

[Pete Delkus]

The largest issue is how Mack can take Stain, and the defensive center out of the lane, thus giving Semaj a lane to drive. Matt does an awesome job of swinging the ball across court and keeping the D honest.

This would be a big loss - but it's all about match-ups at the end of the day. It all depends on the teams we play and their D scheme.

[xuwin]

The largest issue is how Mack can take Stain, and the defensive center out of the lane, thus giving Semaj a lane to drive. Matt does an awesome job of swinging the ball across court and keeping the D honest.

This would be a big loss - but it's all about match-ups at the end of the day. It all depends on the teams we play and their D scheme.

Semaj gives defenses fits when we feed him in the middle. I'd like to see more of that in other games. He draws a lot of fouls.

[bleedXblue]

Even with a sprain he will miss Nova and the Big East tournament. What a crushing blow, right as we were getting momentum.

You dont know that

Lets see what comes out today from Xavier

[Fireball]

....and if Semaj had any help last night, we win that game.

Dee and JMart were both off last night. The bigs other than Philmore didn't give us much. That being said, I can only imagine how seeing your teammate and friend laying on the floor clutching his knee and screaming would screw you up for the rest of the game.

[xsteve1]

Definitely have to wonder how the Stainbrook injury (if serious) will play on Semaj's decision to come back.

[boozehound]

Having Stainbrook out is going to be tough.

Reynolds is going to have to play his best basketball without fouling excessively. I'm not sure it is fair to expect much out of Farr at this point. I don't think he defensive issues are a lack of effort or focus, but more a lack of foot speed and recognition. I'm not sure I see him improving dramatically in the next week or two. Martin is going to need to bring it.

[KabeX]

Gonna be tough. Can't really zone Nova since they can knock it down and they'd prob get 15 offensive rebounds anyway. JFR needs to really step up and JMart/Dee et all better be hitting some. 13% from 3 and we lose by 15 - 20.

[Emp]

Definitely have to wonder how the Stainbrook injury (if serious) will play on Semaj's decision to come back.

I dont understand this logic. He wont stay if Stainbrook is out for next season? His projected status in a draft seems to be (the consensus here) for the governing factor. Dont see Stain's status affecting that.

[ammtd34]

I dont understand this logic. He wont stay if Stainbrook is out for next season? His projected status in a draft seems to be (the consensus here) for the governing factor. Dont see Stain's status affecting that.

Maybe he was talking about Semaj realizing that he could hurt himself next year, jeopardizing his NBA chances.

[xsteve1]

I dont understand this logic. He wont stay if Stainbrook is out for next season? His projected status in a draft seems to be (the consensus here) for the governing factor. Dont see Stain's status affecting that.

Your missing my point. I'm thinking he may see Stain's injury and think what if that would happen to him? Unless he has a large insurance policy.

[nuts4xu]

I have to believe that if it was very serious he wouldn't be back on the bench smiling.

I have seen people blow their ACL's and walk on the leg. I have seen them shortly after, and once the shock of the "snap" wears off, the pain can be tolerable (I said "can" because it can also be excruciating).

If he blew his patella tendon as Coach Mack did in the past few seasons, and I have done twice, I can assure you he wouldn't have been sitting there with a smile on his face. That shit hurts like you can't imagine.

[XU 87]

I have seen people blow their ACL's and walk on the leg. I have seen them shortly after, and once the shock of the "snap" wears off, the pain can be tolerable (I said "can" because it can also be excruciating).

If he blew his patella tendon as Coach Mack did in the past few seasons, and I have done twice, I can assure you he wouldn't have been sitting there with a smile on his face. That shit hurts like you can't imagine.

He probably has a higher threshold of pain than you do, sissy.

[profson]

Your missing my point. I'm thinking he may see Stain's injury and think what if that would happen to him? Unless he has a large insurance policy.

There are three basic factors in the decision whether to return:

- Most important, informed estimate of when he is likely to be taken this year, and the likely $$ at that position, vs next year
- Risk of injury
- Desire to be part of something special at XU next year, and calculus of how likely that is

What happened to Stainbrook, and the extent of the injury, impact the second and third of these.

[SemajParlor]

There are three basic factors in the decision whether to return:

- Most important, informed estimate of when he is likely to be taken this year, and the likely $$ at that position, vs next year
- Risk of injury
- Desire to be part of something special at XU next year, and calculus of how likely that is


What happened to Stainbrook, and the extent of the injury, impact the second and third of these.


Money be green, yo.

[xsteve1]

Hopefully Matt's result is the same as Philmore's who went down in a heap and was in a lot of pain against Georgetown but ended up fine.

[nuts4xu]

He probably has a higher threshold of pain than you do, sissy.

Have you seen how tough I am? You have, and you are probably right. His pain tolerance can't be measured by anyone but him, which is why I won't allow the fact he looked comfortable affect my opinion on how he felt. He could have severed all his ligaments, for all I know.

When I lost my patella tendon, I couldn't physically bend my leg. That tendon allows you to pull your leg into a 90 degree position, as it is when you sit at your posh office desk in downtown Cincinnati. Not having this tendon connected caused considerable pain before it was put into an immobilizer.

[PM Thor]

I've seen grown men cry after blowing out their knee. Then there is my wife, ACL blown and patella torn to shreds and somehow walked 4 blocks home on her own. Some people just react differently. I will say those pain meds they gave her were goooooood.

[LA Muskie]

In my (very) personal experience, most of the "pain" associated with these types of injuries is the abject fear that your hopes and dreams have just shattered. And that's not to discount the physical pain by any stretch, as it's a lot by itself.

[Masterofreality]

Shannon 10 minutes ago:

"@slrussell: No update yet on Matt Stainbrook. Will let you know when I have one. #Xavier"

[BTR MUSKIE]

Hope Stainbrook is able to go Thursday but if not other guys have to step up.Clearly that didn't happen last night.We're going to have to shoot better than 13% from behind the arc.

[Mel Cooley XU'81]

I've seen grown men cry after blowing out their knee. Then there is my wife, ACL blown and patella torn to shreds and somehow walked 4 blocks home on her own.

Girls are tougher than boys are.

#childbirth

[XU3232]

Hope Stainbrook is able to go Thursday but if not other guys have to step up.Clearly that didn't happen last night.We're going to have to shoot better than 13% from behind the arc.

I don't think there is a chance in hell he will be available for Thursday unfortunately. Definitely agree about the 3 pt % though... that was horrendous. They had a lot of great looks too.

[muskiefan82]

X needs one of those "the team lost one of their best players and still beat a very good team" types of outings that generally happen against X.

[mistabeecee41]

X needs one of those "the team lost one of their best players and still beat a very good team" types of outings that generally happen against X.

This team needs to show they can bounce back from adversity. Semaj went out against Iowa with cramps and they team crapped it's way through 9 halves before finally getting it together (1 vs Iowa, 2 vs Tennessee, 2 vs USC and 4 against the sucktastic MAC schools).

[xufan2434]

My GOD.. I will speak for myself when I say I was so spoiled from 2008-2012. Knowing X would be in the tournament every year and just expecting Sweet 16 appearances. This feeling blows and I'm ready for it to end.

When it comes to Matt, other teams' fans do complain about how much he overreacts, but that's fouls not injuries. He might be able to go by the dance, if we make it, but I don't see more than 10-15 minutes from him. James might not be there defensively but I think if he finally comes back out playing physical down low and has intensity, he'll actually give some quality minutes. He has the talent. Just needs to make it click.

[X-Fan]

Think they'll keep Matt's status "under wraps" until after the Nova game? Not sure how much it would affect Nova's prep, but it probably does not help X to share the information right away. Just a thought.

[casualfan]

Think they'll keep Matt's status "under wraps" until after the Nova game? Not sure how much it would affect Nova's prep, but it probably does not help X to share the information right away. Just a thought.

Meh. I think anyone who saw the game yesterday knows there is no chance he plays Thursday.

[Masterofreality]

Think they'll keep Matt's status "under wraps" until after the Nova game? Not sure how much it would affect Nova's prep, but it probably does not help X to share the information right away. Just a thought.

Might be hard to do. Isn't there a Chris Mack Radio show tonight?

[casualfan]

Might be hard to do. Isn't there a Chris Mack Radio show tonight?

What would be hard about saying "we're not going to give up a competitive advantage by discussing any injury situations"?

I don't think they'll keep it a secret for the reason I stated above, but I'm not sure why Mack having a radio show would preclude them from doing so if they were so inclined.

[GoMuskies]

Mack could say they don't know yet whether they know or not. He wouldn't have to go as cloak and dagger as claiming it has anything to do with competitive advantage.

[casualfan]

Mack could say they don't know yet whether they know or not. He wouldn't have to go as cloak and dagger as claiming it has anything to do with competitive advantage.

Also true.

[LA Muskie]

Mack could say they don't know yet whether they know or not. He wouldn't have to go as cloak and dagger as claiming it has anything to do with competitive advantage.
This is true. Although Mack is also that type who would own up to the fact that he's not going to reveal that kind of information for competitive reasons. In fact I'm pretty sure he's done exactly that before.

[coasterville95]

He has, he even pointed out "this isn't the NFL, I don't have to tell
Anybody" or words to that effect.

[mistabeecee41]

The worst part about the Stain injury is the Polar Vortex (a nickname I've just coined, seconds ago, for Myles and Jimmy) will see increases in Minutes with Stain out. If they keep throwing up bricks, it could be a depressing Senior Night for Zeke, Stenger, Amos and Whelan.

I'll spare you all the details of going through their game logs, but these 2 (combined) over the last 4.

2/19 from the field. 0/13 from 3.

[bleedXblue]

The worst part about the Stain injury is the Polar Vortex (a nickname I've just coined, seconds ago, for Myles and Jimmy) will see increases in Minutes with Stain out. If they keep throwing up bricks, it could be a depressing Senior Night for Zeke, Stenger, Amos and Whelan.

I'll spare you all the details of going through their game logs, but these 2 (combined) over the last 4.


2/19 from the field. 0/13 from 3.


I said it 2-3 weeks ago, Farr was not gonna keep up the pace he established earlier in the year....and for sure he hasnt. Im not gonna say he has a nice stroke and Im not gonna say its a bad one...it is what it is, one that should make about 25-30% of his threes. Myles is another story. He usually looks like his form is really good. It seems like he's had several shots almost go down, only to rim out. I think he's gonna make some big shots before the year is over yet.

[Masterofreality]

I said it 2-3 weeks ago, Farr was not gonna keep up the pace he established earlier in the year....and for sure he hasnt. Im not gonna say he has a nice stroke and Im not gonna say its a bad one...it is what it is, one that should make about 25-30% of his threes. Myles is another story. He usually looks like his form is really good. It seems like he's had several shots almost go down, only to rim out. I think he's gonna make some big shots before the year is over yet.

I'd be fine with it if Myles has saved up about 8 threes for Thursday night. Yep, just roping 'em in.

[THRILLHOUSE]

The latest from Shannon Russell:

"The earliest we'll probably hear about Matt Stainbrook's injury is tomorrow."

[GoMuskies]

Farr's stroke is fine. If he wasn't capable of hitting a decent percentage of his 3s on a regular basis, Mack wouldn't let him shoot them.

If there's any silver lining in Matt's injury, it's that it could take some of the pressure off Farr, and he might play better. He will know that Mack cannot pull him if he takes one bad shot or has one bad possession on defense. So he'll be able to relax and do his thing out there. Granted, that will probably make all of us watching really nervous, but I do think it gives him his best opportunity to break out of his current slump.

[xu82]

The worst part about the Stain injury is the Polar Vortex (a nickname I've just coined, seconds ago, for Myles and Jimmy) will see increases in Minutes with Stain out. If they keep throwing up bricks, it could be a depressing Senior Night for Zeke, Stenger, Amos and Whelan.

I'll spare you all the details of going through their game logs, but these 2 (combined) over the last 4.

2/19 from the field. 0/13 from 3.

Ouch! That is a bitter cold!

[mistabeecee41]

Strained MCL. No go Thursday. Day to Day after that.

PRAISE JEEBUS.

[XMuskieFTW]

Per Shannon

Shannon Russell ‏@slrussell 57s

From #Xavier: Matt Stainbrook strained the MCL in his left knee last night and is out for the Villanova game. He's day-to-day after that.


Best we could hope for right there. Hope and pray he's back for the BET

[XUGRAD80]

Very happy for Matt. Looks like his season isn't over. This has to be a mental lift for everyone.

[xu82]

Awesome news!

[The_Mack_Pack]

That's awesome!

[PM Thor]

So glad for the kid.

In conspiracy theorist news, a UC fan on Twitter said that it's a cover up because if Stainbrook was out, it would hurt our NCAA bid chances. ugh.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Not good, but great relief that it's not worst.

[SemajParlor]

All happy thoughts here but that conspiracy theorist may not be too off.. day to day can mean a lot of things.

But for now I won't be a buzz kill and worry about this.

[waggy]

Strained means strained though.

[xsteve1]

So glad for the kid.

In conspiracy theorist news, a UC fan on Twitter said that it's a cover up because if Stainbrook was out, it would hurt our NCAA bid chances. ugh.

I watched the play again closely and it was obvious it was not a tear. He bumped knees with Edwin but did not come down awkwardly on it or plant it and twist it. He'll be fine with proper treatment which he'll get from the X medical staff. Never believe a UC or UD fan.

[The_Mack_Pack]

I actually think that guy tweeting is a St John's fan.

[casualfan]

Really happy it is not a tear as that would have put next year in jeopardy potentially as well.

I'm still not sure how optimistic I am that he returns this year. Everything I have seen states a grade one or two sprain (not a tear) takes anywhere from 3-8 weeks of non-sporting activity.

Hopefully he is able to make it back for games this year, but I'm not real optimistic that will happen.

[GoMuskies]

I'm still not sure how optimistic I am that he returns this year. Everything I have seen states a grade one or two sprain (not a tear) takes anywhere from 3-8 weeks of non-sporting activity.


It's a strain and not a sprain.

[MuskieFN]

Really happy it is not a tear as that would have out next year in jeopardy potentially as well.

I'm still not sure how optimistic I am that he returns this year. Everything I have seen states a grade one or two sprain (not a tear) takes anywhere from 3-8 weeks of non-sporting activity.

Hopefully he is able to make it back for games this year, but I'm not real optimistic that will happen.


I think Mack stressed (paraphrasing) that everyone recovers at their own pace. But having the possibility of returning this season has to be better than having no chance. So, today > yesterday.

[casualfan]

It's a strain and not a sprain.

Try googling 'MCL Strain'. There is no such thing.

They can call it whatever they want. The medical term for an injury to the MCL, regardless of the severity, is a sprain (At least as far as I can tell. I'm not a Dr. haha)

[casualfan]

I think Mack stressed (paraphrasing) that everyone recovers at their own pace. But having the possibility of returning this season has to be better than having no chance. So, today > yesterday.

Oh I totally agree which is why I said I'm happy for Matt because it eliminates the possibility that he would be rehabbing into the beginning of next year.

I'm just saying that I'm not banking on him coming back this year.

[GoMuskies]

Stainbrook clearly has a new and groundbreaking injury.

[casualfan]

Stainbrook clearly has a new and groundbreaking injury.

Well in that case couldn't we just call it a 'stain'?

[paulxu]

And Go stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

[xsteve1]

Really happy it is not a tear as that would have put next year in jeopardy potentially as well.

I'm still not sure how optimistic I am that he returns this year. Everything I have seen states a grade one or two sprain (not a tear) takes anywhere from 3-8 weeks of non-sporting activity.

Hopefully he is able to make it back for games this year, but I'm not real optimistic that will happen.

A strain is treated and healed quickly when proper procedures are performed.

Read more: http://www.ehow.com/how_5923522_heal-mcl-strain.html#ixzz2v2opKOkT

[GIMMFD]

A strain is treated and healed quickly when proper procedures are performed.

Read more: http://www.ehow.com/how_5923522_heal-mcl-strain.html#ixzz2v2opKOkT

Was just going to say this, being a strain is very beneficial, I wouldn't be surprised to see him in the Big East tournament guys..

[waggy]

I think I would find someone more qualified than Constance Barker.


Constance Barker, located in the hills of southern Ohio, is the owner and writer of several financial credit report and travel websites. She started writing in 1999 for private clients and began creating website content in 2004. She gained expertise in home improvement after she and her husband built their home themselves.

[casualfan]

I think I would find someone more qualified than Constance Barker.

You know you're in trouble when you have to google the term you're looking for in " "s to get the results you're looking for haha.

[XUGRAD80]

Per WebMD.....( but also what I learned in my physical therapy class at XU many years ago )

A strain is a stretch or a tear in a muscle or tendon

A sprain is a stretch or tear in a ligament

However...they did say their is NO tear, so it is a stretched ligament

Treatment would consist of RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) combined with anti-inflammatory drugs

The healing process will depend on the severity of the stretch, the amount of swelling, how fast the swelling goes down, and the patients tolerance for pain. Expect that when he comes back, he will be wearing a knee brace.

Fortunately, Matt is not someone that relys on quick movements, but more on positioning, so it might not effect him as much offensively. The problem may be more of a defensive lack of moment and loss of conditioning.

[waggy]

I bet Constance doesn't even know the difference between a hip truss and a belt truss.

[waggy]

http://makingtheworldcuter.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/drseussquote.jpeg

[OTRMUSKIE]

This is great news although without him Thursday I just don't see how they will win and they need that win badly

[XUFan09]

Need early season James Farr to show up in place of Stainbrook. Early season Myles Davis wouldn't hurt either.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[LA Muskie]

Technically strains and strains are different (as someone else said, strain = muscle/tendon and sprain = ligament). But colloquially the term "strain" is often used to also describe a low-grade (non-tear) ligament sprain.

Anecdotally, I don't think we'll see him in the BET (9-11 days from injury) and I think there's only an outside chance we see him in the 1st weekend of the NCAA's (16-19 days from injury). But it wouldn't necessarily be unheard of.

[xavier513]

There's hope that Xavier can beat Villanova without Stainbrook... Xavier was 11-0 before the @Seton Hall game when Stainbrook scored in single digits. That goes to show Xavier can win without a big scoring night from Stainbrook. Those 11 wins include our two biggest of the season (UC and Creighton). However, it will be hard to replace Stain's rebounding numbers, but with the way Martin and Reynolds have rebounded in the last few games they might be able to make up the slack. Also, FWIW Big East home teams are 4-0 so far on senior night.

[xubball1993]

When's the last time X lost on senior night? It seems like it's been quite awhile. Let's not start tomorrow night. Go X!

[XUGRAD80]

When's the last time X lost on senior night? It seems like it's been quite awhile. Let's not start tomorrow night. Go X!


2006, against St. Joe's. Lost the last game on the road as well. Then they won 4 straight in the A-10 tourney, including beating St. Joe's in the finals.

[casualfan]

There's hope that Xavier can beat Villanova without Stainbrook... Xavier was 11-0 before the @Seton Hall game when Stainbrook scored in single digits. That goes to show Xavier can win without a big scoring night from Stainbrook. Those 11 wins include our two biggest of the season (UC and Creighton). However, it will be hard to replace Stain's rebounding numbers, but with the way Martin and Reynolds have rebounded in the last few games they might be able to make up the slack. Also, FWIW Big East home teams are 4-0 so far on senior night.

Scoring numbers aren't everything. A ton of our offense runs directly through him in the post as he is a great distributor, especially when the double team comes.

He's a massive loss IMHO.

[XUFan09]

Scoring numbers aren't everything. A ton of our offense runs directly through him in the post as he is a great distributor, especially when the double team comes.

He's a massive loss IMHO.

Yep, he contributed a lot either directly through assists or indirectly through the proverbial pass to the assist. He was reason #1 why Xavier might have had the best frontcourt in the Big East.

[xufan2434]

Definitely going to miss his post presence and his passing.. But Nova still isn't Matt's best match up. I still think winning a game like this just depends what X team shows up. The one from the Creighton game or the team that got swept by Seton Hall. I honestly think it's gonna be a pretty good game with the final score being decided by less than 5 pts.

[xuwin]

If Reynolds can stay out of foul trouble and give us 25-30 minutes Xavier can win this game. I like James Farr, but, he cannot defend the Nova athletes under the basket.

[bjf123]

If Reynolds can stay out of foul trouble and give us 25-30 minutes Xavier can win this game. I like James Farr, but, he cannot defend the Nova athletes under the basket.

That's a BIG if.


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[Milhouse]

They rallied when Semaj was out with foul trouble against UC and against Georgetown.

Absolutely need a huge game from Dee Davis.

Without that it won't even be close.

[Backyard Champ]

Dee and Martin need to have big games. I wouldn't be surprised to see Stegner have a great night.

[casualfan]

I wouldn't be surprised to see Stegner have a great night.

Um, what?

In the last ten games he has scored 3 points and has 6 rebounds total.

He has 28 points on the season.

I don't see how you could look at what he has done to this point and think he's somehow due for a great performance. Maybe we just have differing opinions on what qualifies as "great".

[GoMuskies]

Maybe he has inside info on Stenger's girlfriend.

[casualfan]

Maybe he has inside info on Stenger's girlfriend.

I mean, i love the kid as much as the next guy for what he brings in terms of energy and effort, but there's a reason he began his career as a walk-on.

[bigdiggins]

Um, what?

In the last ten games he has scored 3 points and has 6 rebounds total.

He has 28 points on the season.

I don't see how you could look at what he has done to this point and think he's somehow due for a great performance. Maybe we just have differing opinions on what qualifies as "great".

For Stenger, make a free throw and don't airball or break the backboard on any others.

[casualfan]

Shannon just posted a story about him making an appearance in the media room today. (http://cincinnati.com/blogs/xavier/2014/03/05/stainbrook-hopes-to-return-for-be-tourney/)

The article mentions he is on crutches and includes some quotes from Matt. It again mentions the goal for him to be back by the conference, tourney, but after reading this quote I'm not real optimistic about that:

“That’s what I’m hoping. That’s something I’m very optimistic about. I’m never pessimistic in anything. They said it depends basically on – it’s all different for different people. The severity and everything, you never know. It’s hard to tell,”

That was in response to a question about him being back next week for the conference tourney.

Maybe I'm crazy, but in reading these quotes I can't help but think him being back for the conference tourney would be a bit of a miracle.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Well I hope that his teammates stepping up was for nova game bc they sure didn't step up against Hall. When they beat Nova there will be no reason to play matt in the BET. Lock it up tomorrow boys!

[Emp]

Matt has many more games to play as a Muskie. Pushing it for a BE tourney return seems foolish unless he is 100% and not at risk.

Silver lining: time for Jalen to learn how to play smart, forget the histrionics after a dunk or a block, and be a complete player. There is nothing about his game that maturity can't fix.

[Muskie]

Matt has many more games to play as a Muskie. Pushing it for a BE tourney return seems foolish unless he is 100% and not at risk.

Silver lining: time for Jalen to learn how to play smart, forget the histrionics after a dunk or a block, and be a complete player. There is nothing about his game that maturity can't fix.

Time for both Farr and Reynolds to worn on being complete/competent players on both ends of the floor.

[ammtd34]

Matt has many more games to play as a Muskie. Pushing it for a BE tourney return seems foolish unless he is 100% and not at risk.

Silver lining: time for Jalen to learn how to play smart, forget the histrionics after a dunk or a block, and be a complete player. There is nothing about his game that maturity can't fix.

I take Jalen's chest smacking and fist pumping as more of a self motivation tactic than showing off. I also understand that others don't like it.

[X-Fan]

I take Jalen's chest smacking and fist pumping as more of a self motivation tactic than showing off. I also understand that others don't like it.
I don't like it...I LOVE IT! Dude flashes that "X" every chance he can. Nothing wrong with showing some passion and intensity.

[Milhouse]

I agree. I absolutely love his energy and enthusiasm. Can't ever remember an X player that brought it like him. If you're at the game just look at the bench he is always standing and clapping for his teammates after big plays. He is a special dude.

[Masterofreality]

It's Matt's birthday today.

If you're on Twitter, wish him a Happy one at @mstainbrook40 . He also tweeted this about his attire tomorrow night..

"I’ve already got my bowtie picked out. And it’s going to be a special one." #Xavier

[XUFan09]

For Stenger, make a free throw and don't airball or break the backboard on any others.

Oh come on, at least add in a wide-open dunk/layup off a defensive breakdown where he's just in the right place at the right time. If he gets more than one rebound too, that would be a stellar performance!

[mid major]

Oh, and Myles and Jimmy finding the bottom of the net would also be a welcome sight.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Happy Birthday Matt :drinks:. Get well soon.........we need you.

[xu82]

Oh, and Myles and Jimmy finding the bottom of the net would also be a welcome sight.

I believe they have found the bottom of the net a few times.... they need to find the bottom of the inside of the bottom of the net for a change. It's all about these little details.

[OH.X.MI]

http://wxix.videodownload.worldnow.com/WXIX_0503201423154887425AC.mp4

Love how Matt's handling this. Hoping he gets back in action soon.

[LA Muskie]

I like the PR campaign. Couldn't hurt. But the odds of him playing in the BET are very low and the odds of him playing the first weekend of the NCAA's are only somewhat better.

[XUFan09]

Shannon just posted a story about him making an appearance in the media room today. (http://cincinnati.com/blogs/xavier/2014/03/05/stainbrook-hopes-to-return-for-be-tourney/)

The article mentions he is on crutches and includes some quotes from Matt. It again mentions the goal for him to be back by the conference, tourney, but after reading this quote I'm not real optimistic about that:

“That’s what I’m hoping. That’s something I’m very optimistic about. I’m never pessimistic in anything. They said it depends basically on – it’s all different for different people. The severity and everything, you never know. It’s hard to tell,”

That was in response to a question about him being back next week for the conference tourney.

Maybe I'm crazy, but in reading these quotes I can't help but think him being back for the conference tourney would be a bit of a miracle.

I wouldn't call it a miracle. It sounds like Matt was told the best case scenario (which would make it one of the less probable ones) and because of his optimism, he is clinging to that. Not a miracle, just less likely. I would be grateful for any kind of in-game appearance from him next week. Five minutes subbing in for the other bigs? Great. Twelves minutes as a legitimate reserve? That would be fantastic (and highly unlikely).

[XU-PA]

the bowtie. Could be the highlight of the game tonight, but I hope the highlight is him congratulating his teammates, especially Zeke, Jalen and James on huge games taking his spot in the post.

The bowtie should be huge, with a pix of d'artagnan and the blob having a wildcat for lunch

[Xtemporaneous]

Reynolds was putting in a ton of extra work yesterday prior to practice. I hope it pays off.

[X-Fan]

http://wxix.videodownload.worldnow.com/WXIX_0503201423154887425AC.mp4

Love how Matt's handling this. Hoping he gets back in action soon.
Hey, I'll take no pain peddling on a bike. That's better than the alternative. Hope we see Matt walking around without pain (if prudent) at tonight's game.

Go X!!!!

[XUGRAD80]

Besides working on the bike, I would bet that he is, or will start soon, walking in the pool. The key is to do very low impact work so as to not aggravate the injury, followed by ice, rest, and elevation. Probably doing quite a vit of muscle stimulation as well. With this type of injury reducing swelling and inflammation is the first step, followed by strengthing the area around the injury. Everyone's body reacts differently, but the fact that he was already in good condition from a season of basketball will almost certainly speed up the recovery. I've seen players/athletes return to action within 10 days of having a knee scoped, but we've also seen how much of a problem Amos has had with his injury. Keep in mind that Matt had knee surgery on his other knee this past year, so he is already familiar with rehab on knees. A big part of the recovery is getting over the fear of reinjury. Matt has already experienced this, which should help him to recover more quickly. I do expect to see him on the court next week.

[LA Muskie]

Besides working on the bike, I would bet that he is, or will start soon, walking in the pool. The key is to do very low impact work so as to not aggravate the injury, followed by ice, rest, and elevation. Probably doing quite a vit of muscle stimulation as well. With this type of injury reducing swelling and inflammation is the first step, followed by strengthing the area around the injury. Everyone's body reacts differently, but the fact that he was already in good condition from a season of basketball will almost certainly speed up the recovery. I've seen players/athletes return to action within 10 days of having a knee scoped, but we've also seen how much of a problem Amos has had with his injury. Keep in mind that Matt had knee surgery on his other knee this past year, so he is already familiar with rehab on knees. A big part of the recovery is getting over the fear of reinjury. Matt has already experienced this, which should help him to recover more quickly. I do expect to see him on the court next week.
I like your optimism. I think you are smoking the happy stuff, but I like your optimism. Personally I think the only way we see him on the court next week is in street clothes, and that the absolute best case scenario is for him to play in the 1st round of the NCAA's. And I think that's a stretch. But I'm not losing hope. Stranger things have happened.

[waggy]

It really didn't look like that bad an injury. Except for him screaming and pounding the floor that is.

[X-Fan]

It really didn't look like that bad an injury. Except for him screaming and pounding the floor that is.
It's hard to say. He went down like a ton of bricks. I was hoping the screaming and pounding were an "overreaction" to the injury compounded by emotions toward playing any more this season.

Like others, I'm hoping for the best.

[LA Muskie]

It's hard to say. He went down like a ton of bricks. I was hoping the screaming and pounding were an "overreaction" to the injury compounded by emotions toward playing any more this season.

Like others, I'm hoping for the best.
I'm sure the emotions played a large part in his reaction (they almost always do). But injuries like these still take time to heal. And while he's in good shape, he's also a very big guy. And for obvious reasons, the bigger you are, the harder it is to recover from knee injuries.

[casualfan]

I like your optimism. I think you are smoking the happy stuff, but I like your optimism. Personally I think the only way we see him on the court next week is in street clothes, and that the absolute best case scenario is for him to play in the 1st round of the NCAA's. And I think that's a stretch. But I'm not losing hope. Stranger things have happened.

I'm with you. I haven't seen a single timeline for any degree of MCL sprain that would allow him to be back for next week.

Everything I have seen says at an absolute minimum you are talking three weeks.

We shall see.

[The_Mack_Pack]

Stainbrook is a college age kid with a personal trainer who will help him back. He'll bounce back quicker than most regular people.

[Xavier]

I'm sure that helps, but I imagine being 6'8 would make it more difficult on the knee.

[casualfan]

Ok, here is a Q & A with a doctor on the MCL from ESPN. (http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:IUGur40Y2vwJ:espn.go.com/trainingroom/s/1999/1004/97166.html+&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=us)

To parts I found to be particularly interesting:

What are the categories of the injury?

Dr. Selesnick: As with other sprains, MCL injuries are classified into three grades:

Grade I
Ligaments are stretched and some fibers torn
Minor pain and stiffness
Grade II
Considerable tearing of ligament fibers but not a complete tear
Major pain and tenderness at the inside of the knee
Swelling in some cases
Some joint instability
Grade III
Complete tear of ligament
Considerable pain and tenderness at the inside of the knee
Some swelling


and....


What is the prognosis for MCL injuries?

Dr. Selesnick: The more minor sprains, like Grade I injuries, may only keep an athlete out of action for a few days to a week or two. Grade II sprains may take from two to four weeks to heal fully. In Grade III injuries, the athlete should expect to be sidelined from four to eight weeks. Usually, once these injuries heal fully, they do very well with a minimum of long-term effects.

[casualfan]

IMHO Matt probably has a level two sprain.

[XUGRAD80]

I think his is a grade 1 because of what Mack said......no tear, just a strain. Sitting out today's game, then day to day after this. Unless he is just trying to spin things to fool other cosch's, why wouldn't he have said there is a tear, if there actually was? But if he was trying to fool another coach, why would he have not said there was a chance he would play tonight? No, I think he's going to be OK...I've seen to many young men and women comeback from injuries much faster than most people can to be anything but optimistic at this point.

[Kahns Krazy]

I'm sure that helps, but I imagine being 6'8 would make it more difficult on the knee.

And his years as a fat tub of goo couldn't have helped any.

[casualfan]

I think his is a grade 1 because of what Mack said......no tear, just a strain. Sitting out today's game, then day to day after this. Unless he is just trying to spin things to fool other cosch's, why wouldn't he have said there is a tear, if there actually was? But if he was trying to fool another coach, why would he have not said there was a chance he would play tonight? No, I think he's going to be OK...I've seen to many young men and women comeback from injuries much faster than most people can to be anything but optimistic at this point.

In that article it describes a grade one strain as taking a few days to two weeks to heal.

The reason I don't think it's a grade one sprain is because if it was I believe they wouldn't have immediately ruled him out for the Villanova game.

[Kahns Krazy]

Maybe it's a grade one and a half.

[XUFan09]

In that article it describes a grade one strain as taking a few days to two weeks to heal.

The reason I don't think it's a grade one sprain is because if it was I believe they wouldn't have immediately ruled him out for the Villanova game.

It's only a three-day turnaround, and they didn't rule him out until the next day. "A few days" is a really vague term, but usually the absolute minimum understood number is three days. Considering the maximum is about 14 days, the minimum is probably a little higher, closer to a week.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[casualfan]

Some interesting comments regarding Matt by Mack on the postgame radio segment.

Said Matt is working hard and they are hopeful he returns. He kept saying if he gets to the point where there is no chance for further damage they'll allow him to come back, but only if he gets to that point.

[Masterofreality]

It was very encouraging to see him walking around without crutches yesterday.

[X-Fan]

It was very encouraging to see him walking around without crutches yesterday.
I thought the same thing. I would think that the docs wouldn't have let him put weight on it if was in a fragile state. I don't know. Something to feel encouraged about at least.

[xsteve1]

I actually saw him jumping around a little when Philmore made a bucket late in the game. I think his injury is a very mild injury and he'll be ready to go next week.

[XUFan09]

Some interesting comments regarding Matt by Mack on the postgame radio segment.

Said Matt is working hard and they are hopeful he returns. He kept saying if he gets to the point where there is no chance for further damage they'll allow him to come back, but only if he gets to that point.

That's not really surprising. That would be true for any injury, as the worse one can do when he gets hurt is come back too early.

[LA Muskie]

Problem is that an MCL sprain is something that CAN suffer further damage (as the knee is weakened) if he returns too early. Some injuries may be painful to play through but can't be hurt more. This is not one of them.

[profson]

Problem is that an MCL sprain is something that CAN suffer further damage (as the knee is weakened) if he returns too early. Some injuries may be painful to play through but can't be hurt more. This is not one of them.

For those of you in the know, is he likely to wear a brace for a while to minimize the chance of recurring injury? And is it feasible to do so in the BB context?

[casualfan]

Problem is that an MCL sprain is something that CAN suffer further damage (as the knee is weakened) if he returns too early. Some injuries may be painful to play through but can't be hurt more. This is not one of them.

Exactly. My biggest fear is that as this team gets more and more desperate he is rushed back and injures it further.

[XUFan09]

Problem is that an MCL sprain is something that CAN suffer further damage (as the knee is weakened) if he returns too early. Some injuries may be painful to play through but can't be hurt more. This is not one of them.

That's what I'm saying. Any injury has a time period in which one can re-damage it, even if one has been recovering nicely, and I wouldn't expect an MCL sprain to be any different.

[XUGRAD80]

In the after the game radio comments, Mack alluded to the thought that he would only be playing if there was no chance of injuring e knee further. This is always something that the medical staff has complete control of....even to a point where the player may feel ready, but the doctor doesn't clear him, so he doesn't play. The doctors have the final word.

Yes, he will probably wear a brace when he comes back, but for sure a compression sleeve of some type at the very least.

[xu82]

Didn't he have a compression sleeve on when he went down? I would expect a light brace, or he'll be fine by next season. Let's hope it's the former.

[XUGRAD80]

I don't think so...just a tight fitting knee pad. The compression sleeve is not designed to give support. It is designed to help reduce swelling. They won't want any additional swelling because that causes pressure, stiffness, and pain.

[THRILLHOUSE]

Bad (but not surprising) news:

"@KevinMcNamara33: Matt Stainbrook out for Xavier for Big East quarterfinals and likely semifinals. Big loss."

[drudy23]

Bad (but not surprising) news:

"@KevinMcNamara33: Matt Stainbrook out for Xavier for Big East quarterfinals and likely semifinals. Big loss."

At this point, if he's out for the Quarters and the Semis, he's out for the Finals too.

[XU-XHI]

How in the heck does a Providence hack writer have this info before anyone else? Not saying he's wrong, but I'm taking it with a grain of salt till I hear it from X, officially from Shannon or a more reputable source. Now, that would be a great leak and then have Stain actually play if you think X plays those games.

[THRILLHOUSE]

How in the heck does a Providence hack writer have this info before anyone else? Not saying he's wrong, but I'm taking it with a grain of salt till I hear it from X, officially from Shannon or a more reputable source. Now, that would be a great leak and then have Stain actually play if you think X plays those games.

Here:

"@slrussell: Stainbrook won't be back until Saturday at the earliest, a definite blow to #Xavier entering the conference tournament."

[GoMuskies]

Get it healed up and ready for two big games next week.

[xsteve1]

At this point, if he's out for the Quarters and the Semis, he's out for the Finals too.

I'm starting to think he may be done for the year.

[Gines]

"@slrussell: Stainbrook won't be back until Saturday at the earliest, a definite blow to #Xavier entering the conference tournament."

Hope we can find a way to get Gardner into foul trouble. He's a load to handle without Stain.

[xeus]

At this point, if he's out for the Quarters and the Semis, he's out for the Finals too.

Thanks Dr. Drudy.

[drudy23]

Best case scenario:

We make the Finals, and our ticket is punched win or lose. He sits the Finals and takes the extra 5 days to get as close as possibel to 100% for The Big Show.

[drudy23]

Thanks Dr. Drudy.

Has nothing to do with being a Dr...if we make the Finals, our ticket will be punched at that point....absolutely no reason to play him and risk losing him for the following week....unless he's 100%. And if you're doubtful on Friday, I find it hard to believe you're 100% on Saturday.

[casualfan]

This really shouldn't be much of a surprise.

Reading between the lines of the quotes that had been put out after he was hurt it was pretty apparent that it would be a longshot for Matt to be back in time for the Big East tourney.

The question now becomes if/how this affects us in the eyes of the committee.

[OTRMUSKIE]

I think it gets X n. X already is probably in but in case they're not I believe the committe will look at stains injury and see X has lost three n a row due to that. I don't buy for one second that they would keep a team out if the dance due to an injury

[Cheesehead]

Well, this sucks. Maybe we should move this to the F-thread.

[gladdenguy]

They will get a chance to prove they can do something without him on Thursday.....Part 2. First one was a 7 point loss. Hope the next one is a win.
Philmore really wanted a tourney berth this year. Lets see if he plays like it on Thursday.

[ThrowDownDBrown]

I don't buy for one second that they would keep a team out if the dance due to an injury

The committee has already shown in the past they do exactly that. Case in point: Patty Mills

[Cheesehead]

They will get a chance to prove they can do something without him on Thursday.....Part 2. First one was a 7 point loss. Hope the next one is a win.
Philmore really wanted a tourney berth this year. Lets see if he plays like it on Thursday.

Yep, I agree. We will need production from him, Reynolds AND Farr to have have a chance. That and Dee has to show up. Semaj is Semaj but this team goes how Dee Davis goes.

[gladdenguy]

Here is what they are saying on the Marquette board. A couple fans said they won't mind if Xavier wins because it would help get us into the dance. Ha. Hope the basketball team thinks the same thing.

http://www.muscoop.com/index.php?topic=42486.0

[danaandvictory]

I think it gets X n. X already is probably in but in case they're not I believe the committe will look at stains injury and see X has lost three n a row due to that. I don't buy for one second that they would keep a team out if the dance due to an injury

Ask Randy Bennett how he feels about that.

[casualfan]

I think it gets X n. X already is probably in but in case they're not I believe the committe will look at stains injury and see X has lost three n a row due to that. I don't buy for one second that they would keep a team out if the dance due to an injury

You can believe whatever you want, but I can assure you they take injuries into account.

[XU-XHI]

They also take into account if the player will be back for the tounament, so it can work in your favor if you take losses with the player out but still play like a tournament team.

[mistabeecee41]

They also take into account if the player will be back for the tounament, so it can work in your favor if you take losses with the player out but still play like a tournament team.

that's where the problem lies. If he played Thursday and we lost, the committee would be 100% sure our team would be at full strength the following week. At this point, they could take a look at our 2 previous losses and cut us some slack.

Problem is he's not playing Thursday. If we lose, we'll be a team who is 0-3 since losing a key player. We can claim that he will be available the following week, but would the committee take our word for it? Doubtful.

Easy solution. Don't lose Thursday.

[nuts4xu]

Easily solution. Don't lose Thursday.

http://24.media.tumblr.com/66fa5a738a3f24e39985084eafe7b203/tumblr_mpcrsy3KnT1swb8m1o1_500.gif

[Masterofreality]

The committee has already shown in the past they do exactly that. Case in point: Patty Mills

Different deal. St. Mary's was 58 in Pomeroy rankings in 2009. X is 44. RPi is the same at 48.RPI is little used now vs Pomeroy as I understand it.

[XUFan09]

I think this makes the Marquette game a must-win, unless Xavier can convince the Committee that Stainbrook will be back and 100%.

[OTRMUSKIE]

A win seals the bid a loss will makes a sweat a little. If everybody wins that is supposed to win then I think X is still in. Let's just win and erase all doubt.

[casualfan]

I think this makes the Marquette game a must-win, unless Xavier can convince the Committee that Stainbrook will be back and 100%.

I agree and furthermore I highly doubt anyone from X could convince the committee that Matt will be back whether he will be or not.

I would imagine in a situation like this the committee assumes the player won't be back unless they show otherwise.

[XUFan09]

A win seals the bid a loss will makes a sweat a little. If everybody wins that is supposed to win then I think X is still in. Let's just win and erase all doubt.

If the Committee decides that Stainbrook wouldn't be much of a factor in the tournament, they are going to judge Xavier as a team without him. Xavier hasn't put together an impressive enough resume to survive that scrutiny.

How much of a contributor they decide that he will be matters so much more than how other teams do (not that that is a complete non-factor).

On the flip side, if they decide that he will be 100%, they'll attribute losses partly to his absence. With him not making even a cameo appearance in the first round, that is unlikely. If Xavier makes the finals (which would secure a bid easily) and he makes an appearance there, then this benefit of the doubt could come into play for seeding purposes.

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[casualfan]

If the Committee decides that Stainbrook wouldn't be much of a factor in the tournament, they are going to judge Xavier as a team without him. Xavier hasn't put together an impressive enough resume to survive that scrutiny.

How much of a contributor they decide that he will be matters so much more than how other teams do (not that that is a complete non-factor).

On the flip side, if they decide that he will be 100%, they'll attribute losses partly to his absence. With him not making even a cameo appearance in the first round, that is unlikely. If Xavier makes the finals (which would secure a bid easily) and he makes an appearance there, then this benefit of the doubt could come into play for seeding purposes.

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As someone who seems to have some knowledge of how the committee operates would you agree that it's safe to say they will assume he is out until they SEE otherwise?

In other words, regardless of what X may be telling them about his availability for the tournament, they will likely consider him to be out unless he plays at some point during the Big East tourney?

[XUFan09]

I have no idea on that score, honestly. There isn't enough of a sample size to confidently predict the Committee on this type of situation. I'll just split the difference and assume that they are going to tab Stainbrook for a backup role in the tournament, which makes me not feel very confident about Xavier's chances if they lose Thursday. If he had made an appearance Thursday, I would have felt much better. Maybe Xavier will be good at campaigning for his health, though.

If Xavier wins Thursday without him, though, they are a virtual lock. It's strange to see an at-large bid be so dependent on one game. People get very dramatic about big wins and losses, but generally, there isn't that strong of a dichotomy for Bubble teams.

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[casualfan]

I have no idea on that score, honestly. There isn't enough of a sample size to confidently predict the Committee on this type of situation. I'll just split the difference and assume that they are going to tab Stainbrook for a backup role in the tournament, which makes me not feel very confident about Xavier's chances if they lose Thursday. If he had made an appearance Thursday, I would have felt much better. Maybe Xavier will be good at campaigning for his health, though.

If Xavier wins Thursday without him, though, they are a virtual lock. It's strange to see an at-large bid be so dependent on one game. People get very dramatic about big wins and losses, but generally, there isn't that strong of a dichotomy for Bubble teams.

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Yeah, I guess the way I've been looking at it is that anytime you're taking the schools word for it on an injury it opens pandora's box in terms of teams trying to hide injuries and make it seem like their guys are coming back.

The issue becomes where you draw the line if the committee starts taking schools word for it.

Arizona isn't a bubble team, but if they were and the committee takes the school's word on it what would stop them from telling everyone Brandon Ashley will be back even though there is no chance in hell he will.

It's sad to have to approach things that way, but it's not a stretch to think schools would abuse it if the NCAA set the precedent of believing a player will be back for the tourney without him coming back for any of the team's conference tourney.

[XUFan09]

I don't think this happens often enough for it to be a serious issue for the NCAA.

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[LA Muskie]

I very much doubt the committee would ever take the word of a school on matters like this. They may bungle things from time to time but they are not abject idiots.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Anychance BoBo is telling Xavier what to do is this situation?

[UCGRAD4X]

Anychance BoBo is telling Xavier what to do is this situation?

I doubt it. He might tell them what NOT to do...which might amount to the same thing…but I still doubt it.

...that is assuming there is something 'to tell' and assuming that the 'something' would matter anyway.

…and if ifs and buts were fruits and nuts...

[casualfan]

Bill Self just announced Joel Embiid is out for the Big 12 tournament and likely the first weekend of the tournament.

Not the same scenario as us with Matt, but I'm sure we'll hear plenty about how the committee handles injuries over the next few days.

[MuskieFN]

This is from the NCAA.com site:

How do the committees handle key injuries, unavailable players or unique circumstances that occur during the regular season?
Committee members evaluate teams based on outcomes of games played with and without missing player(s) or under any unique circumstances. Ultimately, if the committees as a whole feel the impacted teams merit inclusion, the teams are selected, seeded and placed in the brackets.


I remembered hearing that the committee does rely on information from schools about players coming back from injury. The first story in a google of that topic came back with a 2009 piece which confirmed it.

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/campusrivalry/post/2011/03/ncaa-selection-committee-keeps-close-eye-on-injuries-conference-tourneys/1#.Ux6AbD9dW8A

The article from 5 years ago indicated that injuries are taken into account, along with everything else under the sun. That fits with a question I tweeted to Jerry Palm in January about how the committee would view the loss to Iowa. The lead evaporated more or less when Christon left cramping. Palm's reply was that the committee does consider those situations, but a loss is still a loss.

What does all that mean? I have no idea.

[OTRMUSKIE]

If you deserve to get in then you deserve to get in. Doesn't seem fair to be left out because a player got hurt

[XUFan09]

If you deserve to get in then you deserve to get in. Doesn't seem fair to be left out because a player got hurt

The Selection Committee is working to pick the best teams, not the best resumes. It's understandably debatable whether Xavier is one of those teams without Stainbrook, though since a win versus Marquette will make them a virtual lock, they are at least giving some benefit of the doubt to what the team has accomplished with him.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Well I don't like the rule :sign-wtf: Okay so let's say Xavier was the number 1 team in the country and all 5 starters got hurt and couldn't play anymore. Do they keep Xavier out then? I believe you guys it just doesn't seem fair to me.

[XUGRAD80]

They probably would not keep them out...unless there was 0 chance of the players returning.....but it would effect their seed.

Inclusion in the NCAA tournament is NOT viewed by committee members as a REWARD for hard work and regular season success. The objective is to crown a Nationsl championship team. Ask yourself this....how many times in the past has the team that has not had the best regular season, won the championship? It's happened plenty of times for sure. When it comes to the at-large teams, they are trying to pick the teams that have the most likely chance of winning games....as they CURRENTLY are, and not as they may have been at another time pre-tournament.

[Steve A]

Well I don't like the rule :sign-wtf: Okay so let's say Xavier was the number 1 team in the country and all 5 starters got hurt and couldn't play anymore. Do they keep Xavier out then? I believe you guys it just doesn't seem fair to me.

It wouldn't keep them out of the tournament, but I guarantee it would hurt their seed. UC the year Kenyon Martin got hurt falling to a 2 seed is a perfect example of that.

[UCGRAD4X]

The point is, there is so much that goes into making these selections, injuries and player availability is just one more consideration. Fortunately, Xavier seems to be in a position where the committee will, at least say, "Lat's take a close look." If they had a crappy season, they would not even get to the point of considering the player availability issue. I think it is positive that they will take that into consideration.

How much more will it tell them when the Muskies win without the Stain Train?

The team is so close to the 'bubble' - getting in as an at-large will still put them in the 8 to 12 seed anyway. So, if they make it and the committee thinks Stain will be back, as it appears, they will be at the higher end (lower seed). I don't think there is a huge difference here.

The obvious caveat here is what they do Thursday (and beyond).

JUST WIN BABY!

[casualfan]

Here's Shannon's update.
(http://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/2014/03/10/xavier-matt-stainbrook-ruled-out-marquette/6259557/)
This quote from Mack left me a little puzzled:

He's really diligent. He's been in our training room twice a day since the injury. But we were told from the beginning to not even think about Matt returning until 10 days, and at 10 days they would re-evaluate. That would put us at Saturday," Mack said Monday on the Big East coaches' conference call.

Not that it is a big deal, but if they were originally told to not even think about him being back until this Saturday why did they state the beginning of the Big East tourney was the goal?

[blobfan]

[URL="http://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/2014/03/10/xavier-matt-stainbrook-ruled-out-marquette/6259557/"]...
Not that it is a big deal, but if they were originally told to not even think about him being back until this Saturday why did they state the beginning of the Big East tourney was the goal?
The power of positive thinking? Hoping the team would still be playing on Saturday when he returns?

[UCGRAD4X]

Here's Shannon's update.
(http://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/2014/03/10/xavier-matt-stainbrook-ruled-out-marquette/6259557/)
This quote from Mack left me a little puzzled:

He's really diligent. He's been in our training room twice a day since the injury. But we were told from the beginning to not even think about Matt returning until 10 days, and at 10 days they would re-evaluate. That would put us at Saturday," Mack said Monday on the Big East coaches' conference call.

Not that it is a big deal, but if they were originally told to not even think about him being back until this Saturday why did they state the beginning of the Big East tourney was the goal?

Sounds like it is time for Jaylen to become King of the Garden (much better than Gnome).

[OH.X.MI]

Joe Danneman ‏@FOX19Joe "Chris Mack says he may have jumped the gun ruling Stainbrook out for Thur. Says Stainbrook wants to play, but it's up to doctors."

Joe Danneman ‏@FOX19Joe "Still seems unlikely Stainbrook plays. Mack: "He's been upgraded from out to probably out."

Seems like Mack is trying to keep everyone guessing as to Stainbrook's status. All the same, it sounds like the injury is progressing nicely.

[XUFan09]

Sounds like he's just trolling Buzz now.

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[X-Fan]

Sounds like he's just trolling Buzz now.

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I'm ok with this. In fact, I endorse this tactic.

Go X!!!!

[Xavier]

I wonder if the Stainrook wants to play part is true. I mean, I'm sure he wants to but if he feels like he can that would be great news in and of itself.

[casualfan]

Joe Danneman ‏@FOX19Joe "Chris Mack says he may have jumped the gun ruling Stainbrook out for Thur. Says Stainbrook wants to play, but it's up to doctors."

Joe Danneman ‏@FOX19Joe "Still seems unlikely Stainbrook plays. Mack: "He's been upgraded from out to probably out."

Seems like Mack is trying to keep everyone guessing as to Stainbrook's status. All the same, it sounds like the injury is progressing nicely.

So first they ruled him out for the Nova game, but not the big east tourney.

Then they ruled him out for the game Thursday and potential game Friday saying "the doctors told us originally there was no way he comes back until Saturday".

Now they're saying that not only has he not been ruled out until Saturday he may be able to play as early as Thursday.


I mean, ultimately none of this matters, but some of these updates make 0 sense.

[X-ROX]

It's all about the opponents preparation for the game. Stainbrook is a totally different player to prep for than the others. Leave a chance that he'll play and they'll have to use some practice time to prep for him.

If he was going to play, it would be better to keep silent about it.

[mistabeecee41]

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/10590328/selection-committee-monitor-injury-joel-embiid-kansas-jayhawks

"Do you reward teams for what they have done in the season, or do you project what they are going to do?" Wellman said. "If you are projecting what they are going to do, then that injury of course takes on more importance. If you are rewarding them for what they have done in the season, then you just base your decisions, whether it be selection or seeding, upon what they have shown thus far in the season and their accomplishments this season. I think that is a discussion that we will have in the committee room."

[waggy]

Bet you all wish you had said nice things about Wellman now, huh?

[GoMuskies]

Bet you all wish you had said nice things about Wellman now, huh?

Not really. He's probably not smart enough to find this board anyway.

[American X]

http://i.ytimg.com/vi/4Fttt3fFTxk/mqdefault.jpg

PATCH HIM UP!

[casualfan]

Was told today to not expect to see him in the Big East tourney at all, regardless of how far we make it...

[nuts4xu]

Was told today to not expect to see him in the Big East tourney at all, regardless of how far we make it...

I don't doubt this, and would be surprised to see him back in the Big East tourney. I know he wants to play, but I don't see Coach Mack rushing him back before he is cleared by the doctors and 100% ready to play.

[Xavier]

Was told today to not expect to see him in the Big East tourney at all, regardless of how far we make it...

Did who ever tell you this say or hint he could be back for NCAA tournament.? I am starting to get the feel we won't see him rest of year.

[casualfan]

Did who ever tell you this say or hint he could be back for NCAA tournament.? I am starting to get the feel we won't see him rest of year.

Nope, but the person who told me this would absolutely know.

I don't have direct access to them or else I would ask.

[Retire33]

If you watch the pre-travel press conference the Musketeer's Youtube channel, Mack says Matt wants to play and believes he can play. I said he might have spoke too soon and maybe he needs to upgrade Matt from "out to probably out". Said its all up to the doctors releasing him when they they think he will no further injury himself.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Fyf_T5GxAY

[casualfan]

If you watch the pre-travel press conference the Musketeer's Youtube channel, Mack says Matt wants to play and believes he can play. I said he might have spoke too soon and maybe he needs to upgrade Matt from "out to probably out". Said its all up to the doctors releasing him when they they think he will no further injury himself.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Fyf_T5GxAY

He also said this today...

"Marquette presents different challenges," Mack said. "They're bigger than Villanova and so not having Matt's size, we're going to have to figure out a way to keep our post players in the game and defend without fouling and keep guys like (Davante) Gardner and (Chris) Otule from having career nights against us." (http://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/2014/03/12/xavier-mack-marquette-challenges/6332085/)

[Steve A]

According to FS1, Stainbrook "will be available tonight." Not sure how much he can go, but anything will help!

[Retire33]

Per Erin Andrews:

Stainbrook available. Not sure on mins gonna play

[bjf123]

Tweet from Shannon: #Xavier fans: HUGE NEWS. Matt Stainbrook WILL be available tonight. I just asked to double-check and found his status has been upgraded.


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[LA Muskie]

I have a feeling this is much more about showing that he should be good to go for the NCAA's than for productivity today. But it's very good news nevertheless.

[The_Mack_Pack]

I have a feeling this is much more about showing that he should be good to go for the NCAA's than for productivity today. But it's very good news nevertheless.

Perhaps. Or he's been fine for a few days and Mack didn't want Buzz to know until the last minute. Either way I'm glad he can play again!

[LA Muskie]

Perhaps. Or he's been fine for a few days and Mack didn't want Buzz to know until the last minute. Either way I'm glad he can play again!
That's possible but I tend to doubt it. He hasn't practiced all week.

[OTRMUSKIE]

I think he goes out there and at the first sight of any pain Mack pulls him out

[BMoreX]

I have a feeling this is much more about showing that he should be good to go for the NCAA's than for productivity today. But it's very good news nevertheless.

Great point.

[Masterofreality]

I have a feeling this is much more about showing that he should be good to go for the NCAA's than for productivity today. But it's very good news nevertheless.

Yep.

[casualfan]

Well I got some bad info. Very surprised. Happy for Matt.

[flagship]

1400



alllll aboard the stain train!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[bjf123]

I think he goes out there and at the first sight of any pain Mack pulls him out

Yep.


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[SkyWalker]

I'm thinking Double-Double for the Big Stain tonight.

[xu82]

I'm thinking cameo.... sadly

[9822]

Our offense is so much more effective with a credible post threat.


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[Emp]

Nope, but the person who told me this would absolutely know.

I don't have direct access to them or else I would ask.

We ALL got punked, cf. There goes my pick the score prediction.

[OH.X.MI]

We ALL got punked, cf. There goes my pick the score prediction.

As someone suggested earlier in this thread, looks Mack was just trolling the sh** out of Buzz all week. So happy the big fella got to play and contribute!

[blueblob06]

As someone suggested earlier in this thread, looks Mack was just trolling the sh** out of Buzz all week. So happy the big fella got to play and contribute!
Haha, I love it. The Bellichek approach? Maybe Mack will list everyone as "questionable" for Friday's game.

[xu82]

Boy was I wrong, and I'm happy for that! Matt gave far more than I expected tonight. Well done!

[PM Thor]

That's possible but I tend to doubt it. He hasn't practiced all week.

You definitely could tell. In that short time Stainbrook lost much of his wind. But it was absolutely great to see him out there. He's the heart of this team, no one can deny that.

[Porkopolis]

That charge that Stain took is one of my favorite moments of the season.

[Masterofreality]

You definitely could tell. In that short time Stainbrook lost much of his wind. But it was absolutely great to see him out there. He's the heart of this team, no one can deny that.

This! Reps, P!

[xu82]

That charge that Stain took is one of my favorite moments of the season.

Agreed 100%!