Semaj to the NBA

[BMoreX]

@GoodmanESPN: Xavier sophomore guard Semaj Christon told ESPN he is heading to the NBA. Story coming.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

That takes care of the missing scholly for next year.

[STL_XUfan]

Hopefully just testing the waters. I just don't believe he is a lock for a first round pick.

[XMuskieFTW]

I get that money is enticing, but I think it would really benefit him to stay. Both skill-wise and financially. He'll make more money over the long run staying another year

[Masterofreality]

Good luck to him but, in my analysis, I do not think that he is anywhere near ready.

If Vander Blue from Marquette is stuck in the D League, I can't see Semaj being a 1st Round pick. Sorry, just can't.

"Xavier PG Semaj Christon projected at No. 43 in the Draft per @DraftExpress. Going pro per @GoodmanESPN"

[OH.X.MI]

ugh :(

[Juice]

I get that money is enticing, but I think it would really benefit him to stay. Both skill-wise and financially. He'll make more money over the long run staying another year

That's not true at all. You're operating under the assumption that everyone improves with another year in college. Why can't he improve as he sits the bench/is a backup in the NBA? Was Lance Stephenson "ready" when he came out? Now he starts for a title contender. Plus, trying turning down a couple hundred thousand to millions a year.

[THRILLHOUSE]

It's really not a surprise. Right now I don't think he is a 1st rounder but hope he can turn some heads when he works out for teams. Either way, best of luck to him and I enjoyed watching him during his 2 years at X.

[crolfes12]

Is he allowed to see what the scouts say and go through any type of workout and then withdraw?

[casualfan]

Hopefully just testing the waters. I just don't believe he is a lock for a first round pick.

I don't think there is an ability to really test the waters anymore.

[Juice]

Is he allowed to see what the scouts say and go through any type of workout and then withdraw?

Yeah but the NCAA's date is so early that you really don't get much feedback. You can thank Coach K and other dickhead coaches who asked for that rule because they get butthurt when a guy doesn't stay all 4 years.

[LA Muskie]

Is he allowed to see what the scouts say and go through any type of workout and then withdraw?
Yes (he allowed to see what the scouts say) and No (he cannot go through any type of workout). With the new rules we are going to see very few pull their names out. The deadline is before any camps/showcases/workouts and they already have all the info from the advisory board that they are going to get. He's gone.

[XMuskieFTW]

That's not true at all. You're operating under the assumption that everyone improves with another year in college. Why can't he improve as he sits the bench/is a backup in the NBA? Was Lance Stephenson "ready" when he came out? Now he starts for a title contender. Plus, trying turning down a couple hundred thousand to millions a year.

I don't know. In my opinion, I think it would be very difficult for him to make a roster next year. I think if he came back, improved, and with all he would have around him his stock would only go up and he could land a guaranteed deal. Obviously that's not for sure, but I think that's his best chance at making the most money.

[crolfes12]

Poor decision in my opinion. He's going for the money. If anyone follows him on twitter he constantly tweets "N.B.A. (never broke again)"

[casualfan]

I had heard a couple weeks ago that Mack and co aren't done recruiting for 2014. It's starting to make more sense why.

[Juice]

The NCAA Early Entry “Withdrawal” Deadline is April 15 and the NBA’s Early Entry eligibility deadline is April 27.

Why the NCAA has an earlier deadline date than the NBA blows my mind. God forbid a kid makes an informed decision.

[Juice]

Poor decision in my opinion. He's going for the money. If anyone follows him on twitter he constantly tweets "N.B.A. (never broke again)"

Why do you have your job? Is it because you love working or is it because of the money?


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hIz9ZCHKFFY

[waggy]

#f*ckthiswhiteclub

[X Factor]

Semaj is going to be fine. He has all the talent in the world and will play in the NBA.

It's probably a good decision.

Derrick Brown left early and is making around 2-3 million a year in Europe.

Semaj has skills the NBA covets. He's 6'3 point guard with speed. He can finish at the rim over taller players. He has good vision. He average all most 5 assists on a team with 1 or 2 outside threats.

It sucks for us as Xavier fans though. Could've been top 20 preseason with Semaj.

[crolfes12]

Link on ESPN quote from Maj...

http://espn.go.com/nba/draft2014/story/_/id/10690896/xavier-musketeers-sophomore-semaj-christon-enter-nba-draft

[LA Muskie]

I like Semaj. A lot. So I don't want this to come across as bashing him. But I don't think he has NBA game right now, I think his deficiencies will be exposed at that level, and I worry that he will end up sitting on the bench of an above average team with a non-guaranteed contract at constant risk of being cut.

But I honestly have no idea whether he made a mistake or not. I don't know that his draft stock would have increased materially if he stuck around, he would have been at risk of injury, and I understand he's from a poor family. So this may well be the best -- and least risky --decision for him to make.

In any event, best of luck Semaj. You represented Xavier well, and I hope you enjoyed your time here as much as we enjoyed watching you.

[XUGRAD80]

Wish him well. Appreciate what he did for X over the last two years. Not unexpected.

However...there were times last year when X seemed to play better when he wasn't on the floor. Better as in, more like a true team. I thought that many times he was relayed on to much and the offense got stagnet. Possible that the other players were waiting on him to make a play. Still, would much rather that he was returning and X was a more talented team with him, than without him.

Team will be OK if other players step up and take advantage of the opportunity this gives them.

[crolfes12]

If I were in that situation I would stay in college until I know 100% it's the right decision or until I graduate. There may be some information we aren't aware of, but i doubt that. Say goodbye to Semaj going to class for the rest of the year as well

[The_Mack_Pack]

Good luck to Semaj, I hope he kills it in the Association. I would've loved to see him stick around for another year but if he wants to pursue his dream then I have no complaints.

[Xavier]

It stinks because I think X would have been top 20 throughout the season with Maj next year. Regardless, I still think Xavier will have a better season than this year.

[XU3232]

I really hope some of our freshmen coming in next year can produce early on. We absolutely need it now.

[SM#24]

All I can say, is good luck Maj and thanks for two great years!!

[casualfan]

Shannon Russell ‏@slrussell 12s
Said Mack: "He's very, very committed to becoming an NBA player and feels like this is the right time." #Xavier

Not exactly a ringing endorsement from Chris Mack.

[XU2011]

Regardless, I still think Xavier will have a better season than this year.

Uh, I sure hope so. This program can't afford yet another mediocre year.

[nasdadjr]

So he is gonna go to Draft and make more his first year than probably the entire senior graduating senior class this year but he shouldn't do it? Get a life people it is a no brainer. Good luck semaj impress the hell out of them and get up into the lottery. Never fault a guy for getting his when he can cause injury can always happen

[OH.X.MI]

Shannon Russell ‏- "I'm really excited about our team," Mack said. #Xavier

Not going to read too much into it, but still...

[The_Mack_Pack]

I had heard a couple weeks ago that Mack and co aren't done recruiting for 2014. It's starting to make more sense why.

I heard this too. Makes you wonder if someone else if planning to transfer out.

[Blue Blobs Bro]

Now we have to hope Martin stays

[xsteve1]

Congrats Semaj. Hopefully he ends up in round 1. Regardless he'll be able to take care of his family which is more important than the needs of some X fans.

[OH.X.MI]

Congrats Semaj. Hopefully he ends up in round 1. Regardless he'll be able to take care of his family which is more important than the needs of some X fans.

Exactly. Selfishly wish he had stayed as a fan, but family and his future come first. Hard for anyone to pass up potential money.

[LA Muskie]

So he is gonna go to Draft and make more his first year than probably the entire senior graduating senior class this year but he shouldn't do it? Get a life people it is a no brainer. Good luck semaj impress the hell out of them and get up into the lottery. Never fault a guy for getting his when he can cause injury can always happen

That's actually not the way to look at it at all. He will have a finite playing career. It's about maximizing his earnings over the life of the career not starting it earliest. That said I have no idea if it's the right decision or not. Nor can anyone else. Too many unknowns (and unknowables).

[Masterofreality]

So he is gonna go to Draft and make more his first year than probably the entire senior graduating senior class this year but he shouldn't do it? Get a life people it is a no brainer. Good luck semaj impress the hell out of them and get up into the lottery. Never fault a guy for getting his when he can cause injury can always happen

Hmmm. The NC State game would make this something less than a "no brainer".

But I do hope that he gets a First Round guaranteed contract.

[Lloyd Braun]

For selfish reasons we want him to stay, but it's the right decision to go. His stock is not going up next year. The only debate is that the draft will not be as strong next year but the NBA drafts on potential. Don't forget Semaj is already 21 years old. Best of luck to him. I think he sneaks into the first round.

[GoMuskies]

We're going to suck next year. And Semaj will be in the D-League. Oh, well.

[Masterofreality]

DraftExpress.com projects the 6-foot-3 Christon — who averaged 17.0 points and 4.2 assists this season — as the No. 43 pick in the draft.

“That is his range,” one veteran NBA scout told SNY.tv.

“Nice college guard with good size for a point. Not a shooter but can score and get to the basket. He could become a good on-ball defender. Probably going to spend sometime in the D-League. His decision-making also needs to improve. He currently is more of a scoring guard than a point guard.”

[XUFan09]

If I were in that situation I would stay in college until I know 100% it's the right decision or until I graduate. There may be some information we aren't aware of, but i doubt that. Say goodbye to Semaj going to class for the rest of the year as well

That is a serious risk in itself. His stock could actually drop rather than rise.

Think about it. So much of what makes Semaj an appealing prospect he already has: height, athleticism, court vision, defensive ability. What he lacks (outside shooting, a left hand, etc.), he in part makes up for in potential. What if he doesn't chip away at that potential enough over the next year? He'll look less desirable and might fall in the draft.

This is partly why Derrick Brown left. This is why in retrospect it would have been better for Dayton's Chris Wright to leave after his sophomore year. This is why in retrospect it would have been better for Tu to leave after his junior year. Semaj's draft stock might be at his peak. It might not. But "cautiously" waiting for 100% guarantees is very risky, regardless.

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[GreatWhiteNorth]

Good luck Semaj. I am sure you are doing what's best for yourself and your family. Thank you for your service at Xavier. I enjoyed watching you a lot.

[94GRAD]

Next man up. We'll be fine. Good luck Semaj.

[LA Muskie]

I think the notion that the league drafts on potential is exaggerated. Does it happen? Sure. Especially with freak bodies and athletes. But most are drafted on performance. Tyler Ennis will be a lottery pick because of performance. Not because of perceived potential. Same with McDermott (wherever he goes). Embiid is a hybrid. He was going to get drafted on potential but may be the #1 pick because of performance. NBA teams barely have time to practice. So if you can't find your way into the court come game day it's very difficult to develop.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Damn, this stinks. I still think Xavier will have a heck of a team next year but I think it could have been really special with Semaj. Hopefully it still will.

[Xu Red Dogg]

Next man up. We'll be fine. Good luck Semaj.

I second this perspective.

Looking at the game of college basketball, so many people have different needs and expectations. Coaches, administrators, players...fans. Oftentimes the needs and expectations are not the same for each group. Although Semaj returning would have been great for the fans, his coaches and teammates; ultimately the decision is his and his needs come first.

Best of luck to #0.

[XUFan09]

I think the notion that the league drafts on potential is exaggerated. Does it happen? Sure. Especially with freak bodies and athletes. But most are drafted on performance. Tyler Ennis will be a lottery pick because of performance. Not because of perceived potential. Same with McDermott (wherever he goes). Embiid is a hybrid. He was going to get drafted on potential but may be the #1 pick because of performance. NBA teams barely have time to practice. So if you can't find your way into the court come game day it's very difficult to develop.

I'm with you on how much they draft on potential, but Semaj does have performance to go with that potential. It's questionable though whether he would have improved that performance enough in his junior year to account for the lost year of "potential." Even being BE player of the year might not be enough.

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[American X]

http://i.imgur.com/vwzwWbj.jpg

[Xu Red Dogg]

We're going to suck next year. And Semaj will be in the D-League. Oh, well.

"Suck" is probably extreme. Will we be a well oiled machine in November? Probably not. Assuming that reports of Abell's ability are accurate, coupled with the reputation of the incoming class, I think we have a lot to be excited about.

I'm more of a glass half full guy. I think the last 2 years - 2 years with teams of middle of the road talent - show that we have a healthy program from an execution / coaching / preparation standpoint. Once more pieces get put in place on the talent end, the degree of success we have only grows.

[X Factor]

^^^^ hahaha!

[xsteve1]

I really hope some of our freshmen coming in next year can produce early on. We absolutely need it now.

That and Mack actually gives them a chance even when mistakes are made.

[LA Muskie]

I'm with you on how much they draft on potential, but Semaj does have performance to go with that potential. It's questionable though whether he would have improved that performance enough in his junior year to account for the lost year of "potential." Even being BE player of the year might not be enough.

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Good points. I didn't mean it with regard to Semaj in particular (because he has performed). But some people tend to throw around "the NBA drafts on potential" like it's bible.

Want an example of someone who will be drafted on potential if he's drafted? Zach LaVine.

[XUFan09]

I'm not entirely sure how most NBA teams structure their rosters, but I'm under the understanding that most teams try to have at least three players that can run the point (whether that's a pure point guard or a combo guard is a different story). The logic here would be that in the case of injury, teams have less flexibility at the point guard position than at other positions.

IF that is true, then Semaj might have a little bit better chance at getting a contract in the second round than, say, a small forward, simply due to need. Obviously, that isn't factoring in the make-up of the team that drafts him if he ends up in the second round.

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[XUFan09]

Good points. I didn't mean it with regard to Semaj in particular (because he has performed). But some people tend to throw around "the NBA drafts on potential" like it's bible.

Want an example of someone who will be drafted on potential if he's drafted? Zach LaVine.

Agreed. If they drafted so much on potential, then Semaj would have been gone after his freshman year. I think that phrase is thrown out there so much partly because so many people are under the misconception that players need to "polish" their games in order to maximize their chances of getting drafted. Usually these guys are operating from the desire to have talented players stay through their senior years, but the perception still holds.

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[nuts4xu]

Best wishes to Semaj, I'll be following his career with great interest.

It's a shame his last shot in a Xavier uniform was an air ball.

[Lloyd Braun]

I will gladly throw around that the NBA drafts on potential because they do. Just look at the top picks in previous drafts. You can almost always find someone who outperformed someone drafted higher at the same position. Does performance matter? Absolutely. No team drafts solely on potential but you don't draft solely based on performance. They draft based on how their performance projects to the nba, which I think by definition is potential. McDermott performed great but his potential is not limited. He has potential to be a 20ppg scorer.

Lastly they changed the age requirements of the draft because teams could not stay away from the potential of the HS kids coming out.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I will gladly throw around that the NBA drafts on potential because they do. Just look at the top picks in previous drafts. You can almost always find someone who outperformed someone drafted higher at the same position. Does performance matter? Absolutely. No team drafts solely on potential but you don't draft solely based on performance. They draft based on how their performance projects to the nba, which I think by definition is potential. McDermott performed great but his potential is not limited. He has potential to be a 20ppg scorer.

Lastly they changed the age requirements of the draft because teams could not stay away from the potential of the HS kids coming out.

Yeah I'm more on your side. I think the NBA drafts a large part on potential. Obviously performance is a big factor but in my mind potential is just as big. That is why guys like Thabeet are top 3 picks. Thats why high school kids were number 1 picks. Thats why McDermott will not be the number 1 pick. It is why not a lot of seniors are taken in the first round, especially the lottery. Upper classmen have a stigma around them in the NBA draft typically, that they have shown all the have to show.

[Nigel Tufnel]

http://i.imgur.com/vwzwWbj.jpg

First time I've smiled since hearing the news. Thank you. I understand why he's going....just think X could have been a top 10-15 team with him next year. I'm being selfish as a fan...doesn't make it suck any less. Good luck, Semaj. Thank you, American X.

[West is Best]

Semaj is one of my all-time favorites. We don't get to see many players with his physical ability, and his unselfishness really set the tone for the team.

Getting drafted in the 2nd round isn't the catastrophe it used to be. While the success rate isn't great, teams that hit big (Houston, Indiana) get a big boost from getting so much production at a low cost. He should have a good chance to make a name for himself. If he can speed up his release on his outside shot, he can have an impact. I just hope he lands in a decent situation.

[X Factor]

One name that sticks out to me who was drafted solely on potential was Tyus Thomas out of LSU.

He had a great tournament as a redshirt freshman and left for the NBA right away while his stock was high. He was a lottery pick. I don't think he's in the NBA now.

[Thor in 204]

Semaj was special and we were lucky to have had him play for X. I think he'll do better in the NBA than he did in college because of his ability to pass along with his speed and undoubtedly improving handle. He will have multiple shooters to pass to in the NBA.

[Thor in 204]

Mack et al still recruiting? What does that mean? I hope we won't be hearing that Brandon Randolph is transferring. I think he will be a difference maker next year with a guard corps of Dee and Remy and freshmen.

[markchal]

Anyone who thinks he isn't ready for the NBA doesn't watch the NBA. His ability to get to the rim and his speed will get him on a roster and his shot wasn't making any dramatic improvements in one more offseason. This draft is so loaded, he probably would've been better leaving last year. I think he's definitely a 2nd round pick but will have a fine career as a reserve. I wish he would've stayed but that's not always the right move (look at Marcus Smart).

[Caveat]

He had to go now. He's a "potential" pick right now -- if he came back and still didn't show an outside game next year, he'd have a harder time selling "potential" to scouts.

[Cincypunk.org]

Best of luck Semaj and thanks for your time at X!

[Milhouse]

This thread has made it abundantly clear the difference between those that actually watch the NBA and those that think they know NBA talent. Hint: First round second round....Maj will be on a roster next fall.

[LA Muskie]

I will gladly throw around that the NBA drafts on potential because they do. Just look at the top picks in previous drafts. You can almost always find someone who outperformed someone drafted higher at the same position. Does performance matter? Absolutely. No team drafts solely on potential but you don't draft solely based on performance. They draft based on how their performance projects to the nba, which I think by definition is potential. McDermott performed great but his potential is not limited. He has potential to be a 20ppg scorer.

Lastly they changed the age requirements of the draft because teams could not stay away from the potential of the HS kids coming out.
Of course they draft on potential, of which performance is a leading indicator. The problem I have is that people throw it around as if the NBA is in the business of drafting diamonds in the rough. That happens, but far less frequently than posters here think. (And regardless it would not apply to Semaj.)

[LA Muskie]

He had to go now. He's a "potential" pick right now -- if he came back and still didn't show an outside game next year, he'd have a harder time selling "potential" to scouts.
I disagree that he's a "potential" pick right now. Any team that recruits him is going to get exactly what they think they are going to get. He's not all of a sudden going to become a 3 pt shooter. And nobody was going to expect that of him if he played next year.

Was it the right decision for him? Like I said before, who the hell knows. Not me, that's for sure. Too many factors at play, many of which none of us know. I don't think the decision was automatic in either direction, and I certainly don't blame him. I wish him well. Very well.

[LA Muskie]

Anyone who thinks he isn't ready for the NBA doesn't watch the NBA. His ability to get to the rim and his speed will get him on a roster and his shot wasn't making any dramatic improvements in one more offseason. This draft is so loaded, he probably would've been better leaving last year. I think he's definitely a 2nd round pick but will have a fine career as a reserve. I wish he would've stayed but that's not always the right move (look at Marcus Smart).

Not the best of examples. Marcus Smart's biggest problem was Marcus Smart -- not his game. But you're certainly right that staying a year can sometimes cost you. (Although it can also benefit you...)

[casualfan]

I don't agree with the notion he can't shoot. He shot is at 39% from deep this year and often looked very comfortable knocking them down.

I doubt he'll ever be a guy that scores the majority of his points behind the line, but he doesn't have to be. If guys sag off him he's more than capable of knocking it down to make them tighten up.

I mentioned a couple times throughout the season that I wasn't sure why he didn't shoot more, but that's a different conversation for a different day.

[bleedXblue]

I predict a short lived NBA career. 4-5 years max. Just don't think he has what it takes. With that said, go ahead and get your money now. Wait a year and get hurt, or continue to prove you have limitations.......tough call for a 19-20 year old young man. I don't fault him.

[MADXSTER]

For the most part I think he'll be able to do the same in the NBA as he did at Xavier except that he will have more assists due to guys beiing able to make outside shots. He will drive and make high banking layups or dish to open guys who make threes. His biggest draw back may be getting his pocket picked a little more but I think he'll adjust his game to prevent that after a while.

[GuyFawkes38]

IMHO, definitely the right decision. Good luck to Semaj!

[wkrq59]

i have said on both sites more than once that Semaj was not ready . I think I know the reason why he is leaving and Derrick Brown also left. They were-are both tired of school. Some young men are not students. They try and they often can end up receiving their degrees. There are very few David Wests. Even if he has to go to the D League for a year or two, he'll still end up with a contract and there is still Europe. Numerous Xavier grads are making good money ovverseas. He's 21 and apparently ready to begin his pro career. Best of luck to him. And I mean that. He seems like a good kid and some people aren't destined for the classroom.

[XUFan09]

i have said on both sites more than once that Semaj was not ready . I think I know the reason why he is leaving and Derrick Brown also left. They were-are both tired of school. Some young men are not students. They try and they often can end up receiving their degrees. There are very few David West. Even if he has to go to the D League for a year or two, he'll still end up with a contract and there is still Europe. Numeroud Xavier grads are making good money ovverseas. He's 21 and apparently ready to begin his pro career. Best of luck to him.And I mean that. He seems like a good kid and some people aren't destined for the clasroom.

That's pretty reductionist, breaking it down solely to their academic interest. Actually, Derrick Brown was a pretty serious student, from the casual relationship I had with him. With all these guys, though, there's the big question as to whether or not the extra year will actually help their draft stock and the related question as to whether or not it will actually hurt them.

It was far from a guarantee that another year would actually help Semaj and there was a decent chance that it would hurt him. With that context, leaving now made sense.

[xubball1993]

i have said on both sites more than once that Semaj was not ready . I think I know the reason why he is leaving and Derrick Brown also left. They were-are both tired of school. Some young men are not students. They try and they often can end up receiving their degrees. There are very few David Wests. Even if he has to go to the D League for a year or two, he'll still end up with a contract and there is still Europe. Numerous Xavier grads are making good money ovverseas. He's 21 and apparently ready to begin his pro career. Best of luck to him. And I mean that. He seems like a good kid and some people aren't destined for the classroom.

At least Derrick left with a degree. I'm disappointed to lose Semaj yet I will follow him if he makes it in the Association. And you are so right: David West is a special guy. I remember the "experts" saying he was too small for the NBA and look at him now. I really want to see Dave get his ring this year!

[XfansinKy]

Hopefully he doesn't get stuck in the D-League or overseas that way our coach can tell recruits he has recruited and coached players that are in the NBA.

[markchal]

Hopefully he doesn't get stuck in the D-League or overseas that way our coach can tell recruits he has recruited and coached players that are in the NBA.

You know he recruited Chris Paul to Wake, right?

[kyxu]

It was far from a guarantee that another year would actually help Semaj and there was a decent chance that it would hurt him. With that context, leaving now made sense.

Let's also not forget Semaj is 21 years old. He would be 22 at the tip-off of next college basketball season. Hardly a spring chicken by draft standards, even leaving now.

[nasdadjr]

I really can't believe some of you people. Do you really think a college player his better off staying in college where he has to worry about school work and NCAA restrictions on practice time as opposed to having no restrictions and going to either the d league or an nba roster? The only part of his game that isn't nba ready is his jump shot and that will come around. He had a lightning fast first step can stay in front of and defend any guard and can put any pass o a frozen rope at the right time. Mark it down now next year he will be on an nba roster not a d league one. Guess what not every Draft pick has the entire package and plenty of people much worse and with not as much upside as semaj have gone high first round. He will be fine and anyone who really thinks he should a stayed another year doesn't know squat about the nba.

[nasdadjr]

And to the guy who said it's about maximizing your earning potential I got two things to say...
1. He will be making money now and he will develop more on and nba bench or even the d league ad opposed to staying in college and that goes for any player not just semaj.

2. If he tears an acl by staying in college and never gets to the league it's kinda hard to maximize anything.

[nasdadjr]

Oh and leaving with a degree doesn't mean squat in today's world. Come on people get some freaking perspective.

[BlueGuy]

Hopefully he doesn't get stuck in the D-League or overseas that way our coach can tell recruits he has recruited and coached players that are in the NBA.

Getting "stuck" in Europe wouldn't be so bad... Sato, Chalmers, and Brown have all played under contracts over there paying $1mil or more. If the NBA doesn't work out, that's not such a bad plan B.


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[xu82]

Poor decision in my opinion. He's going for the money. If anyone follows him on twitter he constantly tweets "N.B.A. (never broke again)"

Unfortunately, a high percentage of retired NBA players are S.B.A. (soon broke again).

[bleedXblue]

I really can't believe some of you people. Do you really think a college player his better off staying in college where he has to worry about school work and NCAA restrictions on practice time as opposed to having no restrictions and going to either the d league or an nba roster? The only part of his game that isn't nba ready is his jump shot and that will come around. He had a lightning fast first step can stay in front of and defend any guard and can put any pass o a frozen rope at the right time. Mark it down now next year he will be on an nba roster not a d league one. Guess what not every Draft pick has the entire package and plenty of people much worse and with not as much upside as semaj have gone high first round. He will be fine and anyone who really thinks he should a stayed another year doesn't know squat about the nba.

This is funny. The only thing he has to work on is his ability to shoot the ball. Well, that's pretty damn important at the next level where everyone is big, quick, physical etc.

[markchal]

Unfortunately, a high percentage of retired NBA players are S.B.A. (soon broke again).

I think this is true of most pro athletes.

[Muskeagle]

I'm surprised at how surprised everyone is. I also don't think a lot of people around here watch a lot of NBA games. I don't either, but if shooters as bad as John Wall and Rondo can get to the level they are at with speed, quickness, and passing ability.....well then I think Semaj has a pretty good shot. I understand the whole "well Bill Gates dropped out of college....so it's a good idea" warning.....but I keep seeing "he can't shoot...he'll never make it." PGs in the NBA don't HAVE to be great shooters to be successful.

And I admit I don't know SHIT, but I feel he will be successful in the NBA. I think the game actually fits his style even better than the college game. Semaj in the open court, with no (or little zones) to fight through will work out well for him. He will beat his man an awful lot off the dribble and he is not only a scorer, but a good passer. He'll be fine. I wish he would stay, but I felt he was gone since before the season.

[HuskyMuskie]

Only one question:

Why do some users put "IMO" after posts? Have never understood that. Aren't message boards a free-flowing forum of individual thoughts and opinions...?

Best of luck to Semaj. Thank you for your time at X.

[Xman95]

So he is gonna go to Draft and make more his first year than probably the entire senior graduating senior class this year

No, not if he's a 2nd Rd pick with a non-guaranteed contract. Won't make a killing in the D-League and there's a good possibility that's where he could land.

[GuyFawkes38]

Only one question:

Why do some users put "IMO" after posts? Have never understood that. Aren't message boards a free-flowing forum of individual thoughts and opinions...?

Best of luck to Semaj. Thank you for your time at X.

IMO, there is nothing wrong with this practice.

[LA Muskie]

I watch a lot of NBA games. Semaj has a lot of work to do to get to that level. The fact that he could get to the rim against Big Easy competition [typo unintended but remarkably apropos] is about as relevant as expecting a new recruit to replicate what he did against HS competition. Which is to say not much. Just imagine this: he somehow gets past Lance Stephenson and runs into David West. How does it turn out?

PS: Nothing against Semaj. He's great. But he's not there yet. And comparisons to Rondo and Westbrook are outlandish right now.

[Juice]

I don't agree with the notion he can't shoot. He shot is at 39% from deep this year and often looked very comfortable knocking them down.

I doubt he'll ever be a guy that scores the majority of his points behind the line, but he doesn't have to be. If guys sag off him he's more than capable of knocking it down to make them tighten up.

I mentioned a couple times throughout the season that I wasn't sure why he didn't shoot more, but that's a different conversation for a different day.

His three point shot is atrocious. It's hesitant and has poor form. It's nowhere near what is required for the NBA. He shot just over one 3 a game and they were usually wide open shots. That doesn't change my thinking though. I'm glad he will be beginning his career in the NBA.

[LA Muskie]

Deleted.

[SemajParlor]

Unfortunately, a high percentage of retired NBA players are S.B.A. (soon broke again).


I think this is true of most pro athletes.

....and many college graduates.

[SemajParlor]

Welp. Time for a new name- it's been real SemajParlor.

[Muskeagle]

A comparison to Rondo is outlandish if I were to say he is as good as Rondo. A comparison to Rondo in saying they have a similar skill set is not. Of course he is no Rondo....the Rondo of NOW. Let's look at Rondo's college stats:

Year G Min Pct 3 pt. Pct FT Pct Off Def Tot Ast TO Stl Blk PF PPG
2004-05 34 25.1 51.0 30.3 58.3 0.6 2.3 2.9 3.5 2.0 2.6 0.2 1.9 8.1
2005-06 34 31.0 48.2 27.3 57.1 1.1 5.1 6.1 4.9 2.3 2.0 0.1 2.1 11.2




SEASON TEAM MIN FGM-FGA FG% 3PM-3PA 3P% FTM-FTA FT% REB AST BLK STL PF TO PTS
2013-14 XAV 35.3 5.9-12.4 .479 0.6-1.4 .388 4.6-6.9 .668 2.7 4.2 0.2 1.3 2.1 2.6 17.0
2012-13 XAV 34.3 5.4-12.2 .444 0.2-0.9 .250 4.2-6.2 .672 2.9 4.6 0.1 1.5 2.7 3.6 15.2

Sorry for the slightly different stat lines. It doesn't seem to me to be a stretch to compare their level at this point in their career.

Hell, I'll even throw in John Wall.

Season GP MPG PPG FG% 3FG% FT% APG RPG BPG SPG
2009-10 37 34.8 16.6 46.1 32.5 75.4 6.5 4.3 0.5 1.8

Again, not seeing the craziness of the comparisons. It took some time for both Wall and Rondo to develop into the NBA players they are now, but with both you had bad shooting fast point guards. You can't even say that they competition they played against in college was much better as the SEC is always a bit of a weak conference.

I'm not guaranteeing success....no one can. One never knows. I know Snipe had a huge post about D. Brown. Who knows if that extra year in college helps or hurts. The openness of the NBA game makes me think Semaj will do just fine. I understand about getting around one Stephenson and coming against D. F. West....but in the NBA a LOT of times you get around your guy.....and there's no one there to help....not like in the college game where they can put five guys in the lane and dare your team to shoot (which ours couldn't this year).

[LA Muskie]

Muskeagle, I think you are missing my point. I've said repeatedly that Semaj is good and that I don't have a problem with him leaving if that is his informed decision. I wouldn't presume to know any better. But I've watched a lot of basketball for a lot of years. I watched Rondo and Westbrook and Wall in college and in the pros. Semaj is not where they were at the same point in their careers. Comparing stat-lines presents only half the story. For the last 2 years we have depended almost exclusively on Semaj to make offense happen. That wasn't the case for either Rondo or Wall. And yes, they did play tougher competition overall.

I hope things turn out well for Semaj. But I think he's going to struggle early in his professional career (at least domestically), and I hope he can survive those rough years. Many can't.

[Juice]

A comparison to Rondo is outlandish if I were to say he is as good as Rondo. A comparison to Rondo in saying they have a similar skill set is not. Of course he is no Rondo....the Rondo of NOW. Let's look at Rondo's college stats:

Year G Min Pct 3 pt. Pct FT Pct Off Def Tot Ast TO Stl Blk PF PPG
2004-05 34 25.1 51.0 30.3 58.3 0.6 2.3 2.9 3.5 2.0 2.6 0.2 1.9 8.1
2005-06 34 31.0 48.2 27.3 57.1 1.1 5.1 6.1 4.9 2.3 2.0 0.1 2.1 11.2




SEASON TEAM MIN FGM-FGA FG% 3PM-3PA 3P% FTM-FTA FT% REB AST BLK STL PF TO PTS
2013-14 XAV 35.3 5.9-12.4 .479 0.6-1.4 .388 4.6-6.9 .668 2.7 4.2 0.2 1.3 2.1 2.6 17.0
2012-13 XAV 34.3 5.4-12.2 .444 0.2-0.9 .250 4.2-6.2 .672 2.9 4.6 0.1 1.5 2.7 3.6 15.2

Sorry for the slightly different stat lines. It doesn't seem to me to be a stretch to compare their level at this point in their career.

Hell, I'll even throw in John Wall.

Season GP MPG PPG FG% 3FG% FT% APG RPG BPG SPG
2009-10 37 34.8 16.6 46.1 32.5 75.4 6.5 4.3 0.5 1.8

Again, not seeing the craziness of the comparisons. It took some time for both Wall and Rondo to develop into the NBA players they are now, but with both you had bad shooting fast point guards. You can't even say that they competition they played against in college was much better as the SEC is always a bit of a weak conference.

I'm not guaranteeing success....no one can. One never knows. I know Snipe had a huge post about D. Brown. Who knows if that extra year in college helps or hurts. The openness of the NBA game makes me think Semaj will do just fine. I understand about getting around one Stephenson and coming against D. F. West....but in the NBA a LOT of times you get around your guy.....and there's no one there to help....not like in the college game where they can put five guys in the lane and dare your team to shoot (which ours couldn't this year).

I get your overall point but the SEC had two teams in the final four in 2006 (Rondo's last season at UK) and Florida won it all. The SEC got 6 teams in which tied the Big Ten and was only second to the Big East.

[mistabeecee41]

"Derrick called and is going to keep his name in the NBA Draft. No surprise. We're hearing great things for him. Keep it up DB #5!!"

"I want to thank Jordan for his efforts these last two years," said Xavier head coach Chris Mack. "I've seen firsthand the ability, skill and drive from Jordan I believe it takes to have a lengthy NBA career. While it is a bittersweet moment for Xavier Basketball, I'm confident Jordan Crawford is making a wise decision. There is no doubt in my mind he is NBA ready. Jordan and his family will always be a part of Xavier. Our program, coaches and players wish JC nothing but the best."

"He's very, very committed to becoming an NBA player and feels like this is the right time," Mack said. "Everybody's going to have their opinions, from the draft boards to people in the media. Ultimately it's one person's decision: Semaj's. And he feels like this is the right time for him to make this next step."

Yeah. Chris didn't make it very obvious he probably doesn't think he's ready.

[American X]

Welp. Time for a new name- it's been real SemajParlor.

What will it be for you?

Red, White, & Bluiett?
A Kind of Bluiett?
Bluiett Skies?

[Muskie]

I think next season that every time Myles Davis hits a three they should play a snip of something off Miles Davis' album.

[94GRAD]

I think next season that every time Myles Davis hits a three they should play a snip of something off Miles Davis' album.

Will we hear a Miles Davis snip more than 5 times next year? (too soon?)

[XMuskieFTW]

Will we hear a Miles Davis snip more than 5 times next year? (too soon?)

I'm just hoping if they do that that we can at least get through one song before the end of the season

[IM4X]

He had to go now. He's a "potential" pick right now -- if he came back and still didn't show an outside game next year, he'd have a harder time selling "potential" to scouts.

This might be the best argument for Semaj to leave now.

No question he has the potential to play Pro. We all know he has some special skills. Yet, his mid range shooting right now is hardly NBA caliber. His free throw shooting has gotten better, but it's still not what you'd expect from a potential first round guard.

For me, it's not so much about wanting him to stay to help the team, as much as it is about wanting him to succeed at the next level. I see a team that really needs to find some leadership. Semaj was often frustrated and even impatient with his teammates and their mistakes and often lashed out at them instead of building their confidence or bringing them all together and becoming that much needed leader X needed this year. But maybe his lack of leadership this year is more an indictment of Mack's inability to teach teamwork and chemistry. Maybe much of Semaj's frustration is with Mack and he questions Mack's ability to help him improve any more or help next year's team fix some of this year's glaring issues. Or maybe Semaj just does simply feel like it's the right time.

In any event, Semaj was fun to watch at X. I thank him for coming to X, I hope he finds his mid range shot and proves to be a great player for years to come in the NBA.

[Snipe]

"Derrick called and is going to keep his name in the NBA Draft. No surprise. We're hearing great things for him. Keep it up DB #5!!"

"I want to thank Jordan for his efforts these last two years," said Xavier head coach Chris Mack. "I've seen firsthand the ability, skill and drive from Jordan I believe it takes to have a lengthy NBA career. While it is a bittersweet moment for Xavier Basketball, I'm confident Jordan Crawford is making a wise decision. There is no doubt in my mind he is NBA ready. Jordan and his family will always be a part of Xavier. Our program, coaches and players wish JC nothing but the best."

"He's very, very committed to becoming an NBA player and feels like this is the right time," Mack said. "Everybody's going to have their opinions, from the draft boards to people in the media. Ultimately it's one person's decision: Semaj's. And he feels like this is the right time for him to make this next step."

Yeah. Chris didn't make it very obvious he probably doesn't think he's ready.

Talk about a Tell.

No shyt!

I think Semaj is the only one who thinks he is ready.

[Snipe]

Unfortunately, a high percentage of retired NBA players are S.B.A. (soon broke again).


I think this is true of most pro athletes.

Your demographics may vary.

[Cheesehead]

"Derrick called and is going to keep his name in the NBA Draft. No surprise. We're hearing great things for him. Keep it up DB #5!!"

"I want to thank Jordan for his efforts these last two years," said Xavier head coach Chris Mack. "I've seen firsthand the ability, skill and drive from Jordan I believe it takes to have a lengthy NBA career. While it is a bittersweet moment for Xavier Basketball, I'm confident Jordan Crawford is making a wise decision. There is no doubt in my mind he is NBA ready. Jordan and his family will always be a part of Xavier. Our program, coaches and players wish JC nothing but the best."

"He's very, very committed to becoming an NBA player and feels like this is the right time," Mack said. "Everybody's going to have their opinions, from the draft boards to people in the media. Ultimately it's one person's decision: Semaj's. And he feels like this is the right time for him to make this next step."

Yeah. Chris didn't make it very obvious he probably doesn't think he's ready.

I came away with that too. One can read between the lines. It was not exactly a ringing endorsement by Mack for Semaj's readiness.

[bobbiemcgee]

I think Maj has a great future. Probably not in the NBA, but he can certainly make a lot of money playing BB somewhere overseas. He has like 8 brothers and sisters, so I'm sure he's eager to earn some dough. I'm really excited about the guys coming in and Remy. I think JMart will be back. Reynolds needs to continue to improve. Bluiett looks like a hoss and I think he will get minutes right away. Need a couple of shooters for sure, but that may be covered too.
Anyway, Thx Maj. Great kid.

[xu82]

Thank you Semaj for all you have done for Xavier. You will forever be part of our history. Tremendous talent and I hope you make a very good living wherever it may be. Tons of talent. Take care of your family to the point that you allow them to take care of themselves. I know it seems harsh, but they have to swim or sink on their own. Don't be one of the guys who loses it all because he thinks he's going to take care of everyone forever.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Was looking at some Mock Drafts to see if any had Semaj in the first round or if they had second round picks too, where they had him there. I looked at about 6 mock drafts all updated in the last week and two have him in the first round:

Gary Parrish has him 28th.
http://www.cbssports.com/nba/draft/mock-draft

Hoops Hype has him 28th as well.
http://hoopshype.com/draft.htm

Only one draft I looked at had a second round and they had him 13th in the second rd (43rd overall).
http://www.draftexpress.com/nba-mock-draft/2014/

Who really knows though?

[D-West & PO-Z]

This from Chad Ford on ESPN:

Semaj Christon, PG, So., Xavier
Christon is quick and athletic, but is he a point guard? That's the question NBA scouts are debating. If he is, he's going to get a lot of looks in the second half of the first round based on his athletic profile. If he's more of a 2-guard, he's undersized and an inconsistent shooter who falls into the second round. Workouts will be key.

Interesting thought comments. If teams are convinced he can play the point he has a good chance at first round. Hopefully he shows well in the workouts.

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://walterfootball.com/nbadraft2014mock_2.php

Another one. No sure exactly what the website is, but has him #38 overall.

[XUFan09]

The problem Semaj encountered this year was that the team looked distinctly better with Dee at point than with him at point.

Sent from my DROID RAZR HD using Tapatalk

[SemajParlor]

What will it be for you?

Red, White, & Bluiett?
A Kind of Bluiett?
Bluiett Skies?

Good suggestions. I think DoTheMacurena is #1 in the depth chart at the moment, but there is still time for another name to make a run.

[waggy]

Do Wa Ditty, Bluiett That Thing.

[drudy23]

http://walterfootball.com/nbadraft2014mock_2.php

Another one. No sure exactly what the website is, but has him #38 overall.

NBA mock draft from a football blog...hmmmm

[murray87]

Forgive me if this has been addressed already but does anyone know if he has hired an agent?

[Muskie]

Forgive me if this has been addressed already but does anyone know if he has hired an agent?
It doesn't really matter. With the deadline now moved up, there's literally (unless the calendar I looked at is wrong) no evaluation to be done by scouts before the deadline (like their used to be). He's gone.

[Xman95]

What will it be for you?

Red, White, & Bluiett?
A Kind of Bluiett?
Bluiett Skies?

How about "Just Bluiett" (and you know that's gonna wind up on t-shirts too)?

[Xman95]

It doesn't really matter. With the deadline now moved up, there's literally (unless the calendar I looked at is wrong) no evaluation to be done by scouts before the deadline (like their used to be). He's gone.

And I believe Mack (or someone with the program) said he's going to be hiring an agent in the next couple weeks. Semaj leaving is a done deal. And, quite honestly, I think the team will be fine next year as long as no other key pieces leave.

[boozehound]

Oh and leaving with a degree doesn't mean squat in today's world. Come on people get some freaking perspective.

Huh?

[PMI]

Blueitt To It, Lars.

[nuts4xu]

Forgive me if this has been addressed already but does anyone know if he has hired an agent?

He hasn't yet, but will be hiring one soon. This according to Coach Mack.

[X-Fan]

And I believe Mack (or someone with the program) said he's going to be hiring an agent in the next couple weeks. Semaj leaving is a done deal. And, quite honestly, I think the team will be fine next year as long as no other key pieces leave.
I completely agree with this. While I'd love to have Semaj next year, we will still have a really good team. Solid returning pieces, with a good mix of returning potential, and a ton of young talent. Semaj's departure means someone else can step-up and shine. Also, I think X has a good chance for better offensive flow next year. It was well known Semaj wasn't likely to shoot, so that clogged the middle even more. I see a team similar to the 2008 team next year. Less experience, but lots of guys who can score and defend.

[The_Mack_Pack]

With the way the Harrison twins from UK are performing in the tournament they may be more highly valued than Semaj now, which was not the case two weeks ago. I'm hoping he gets drafted in the first round but there will be some tough competition at PG.

[Xman95]

With the way the Harrison twins from UK are performing in the tournament they may be more highly valued than Semaj now, which was not the case two weeks ago. I'm hoping he gets drafted in the first round but there will be some tough competition at PG.

Yep, seems like a lot of kids are throwing their names in the draft. One of the most baffling is Jakarr Sampson, as I don't think anyone feels he's ready. Hell, I don't know that Jakarr thinks he's ready. My guess is that he's just done with school and is ready for whatever comes next. He seems to be viewed as a late-2nd, at best, and as more kids enter the draft he'll continue to be pushed down the list.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Yep, seems like a lot of kids are throwing their names in the draft. One of the most baffling is Jakarr Sampson, as I don't think anyone feels he's ready. Hell, I don't know that Jakarr thinks he's ready. My guess is that he's just done with school and is ready for whatever comes next. He seems to be viewed as a late-2nd, at best, and as more kids enter the draft he'll continue to be pushed down the list.

Yeah I was thinking the same thing that it had to be academics. Maybe he is perfectly fine with going overseas and wants to see if in workouts he can move up and if not so be it. Who knows?

[West is Best]

Yeah I was thinking the same thing that it had to be academics. Maybe he is perfectly fine with going overseas and wants to see if in workouts he can move up and if not so be it. Who knows?

I've seen Jakarr as a 2nd round pick on some boards, but never as a 1st. Do college players have a different perception of the d-league now? The salaries are so terrible that seems like a big risk.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I've seen Jakarr as a 2nd round pick on some boards, but never as a 1st. Do college players have a different perception of the d-league now? The salaries are so terrible that seems like a big risk.

Off of no knowledge other than my own guess, I would bet players are more comfortable going overseas than they used to be and are thinking about that as opposed to D league. Average players can make a great living playing ball overseas, a lot of times a lot better living than if they were average players in the NBA, and almost certainly more than as a last bench guy in the NBA.

[Muskeagle]

How about "Just Bluiett" (and you know that's gonna wind up on t-shirts too)?

Fairly obvious ones, but.....

The Silver Bluiett or

The Magic Bluiett

[xufan2434]

No one thinks Semaj is ready, and that's probably right. But you have to look at it from his point of view. He saw what happened to Tu when he didn't leave when his draft status was at it's highest.

He knows that Remy is going to take attention away from him next year, and not to mention all of the guys coming in. I think he would definitely get his still, but with all those factors and coming from a poor and very large family, he feels that he needs the money.

Semaj has an awesome work ethic and attitude. The summer camps in the past have shown he isn't afraid of the other competition across the country. I have no doubt that even if he gets taken in the 2nd round, he'll make a roster and play at least some years in the NBA. Hell that's more than a lot of really good X players have accomplished in the past.

[kyxu]

No one thinks Semaj is ready, and that's probably right. But you have to look at it from his point of view. He saw what happened to Tu when he didn't leave when his draft status was at it's highest.

Not that I disagree with you about Semaj, but Tu's draft stock was not going to be any higher than it was when he left after his senior year.

[Xman95]

No one thinks Semaj is ready, and that's probably right. But you have to look at it from his point of view. He saw what happened to Tu when he didn't leave when his draft status was at it's highest.

He knows that Remy is going to take attention away from him next year, and not to mention all of the guys coming in. I think he would definitely get his still, but with all those factors and coming from a poor and very large family, he feels that he needs the money.

Tu was essentially the same player from his junior to season season. That's why his draft stock never rose. If Semaj developed a consistent long-range jumper, his stock would have gone way up. In addition, I tend to disagree with the bolded part. One of the questions about Christon is his ability to play PG. Teams have really only seen him as a scoring guard, something he probably won't be in the NBA if he gets there. However, if he came back and showed he could run an offense as the PG, it would have been a benefit to him. Having guys like Remy, Justin, Bluiett, a more experienced Jalen, Macura, etc. would have given him an opportunity to showcase his ability to distribute and run the show.

But, as you pointed out, he has shown he's not afraid of a challenge and hopefully he can rise to the occasion. He seems like a good kid and I hope we see him playing in the NBA next year.

[Milhouse]

Marcus Smart came back and couldn't develop that jumper and hurt his stock this year. Potentially falling out of the lottery.

[Xman95]

Marcus Smart came back and couldn't develop that jumper and hurt his stock this year. Potentially falling out of the lottery.

What hurt Marcus Smart was the attitude and his decisions (such as going after a fan in the stands). The little dip the team took didn't help, but they pulled out of that and made the tourney. Smart is still going to go very, very high. And his overall game, as well as his NBA-ready body, are viewed differently than Christon's. He'll still land solidly in the lottery.

By the way, I'm someone that would have encouraged Smart to leave after last year. (Same went for Sullinger at OSU.) His stock was already very, very high. Really, the only thing Smart could do was stay the same or hurt his value. In the case of Semaj, it's not. If Christon came back and had a bad season, perhaps it lowers a mid-2nd Rd value. But if he came back and showed improvement, including a jumper and better decisions, he's a lock somewhere in Rd. 1. One had nowhere to go but down. The other has a lot of room to climb.

Here's a question: if there's no guarantee of improving if he returns, there's risk of injury if he comes back and whether he's projected highly or not doesn't matter, why should Semaj have not come out after his freshman year? (Yes, I'm just playing devil's advocate on this one...there's no way he should have come out, but I also don't think he's ready now.)

[LA Muskie]

Marcus Smart came back and couldn't control his temper and hurt his stock this year. Potentially falling out of the lottery.

Fixed that for you.

[casualfan]

Fixed that for you.

You can't possibly think that incident hurt his draft stock?

[danaandvictory]

I love it when people arrogantly pull the "fixed it for you" card while being completely wrong. No NBA team gives even an eighth of a shit about the Lubbock incident. Smart's inability to make a jump shot is a far more significant issue.

[kyxu]

I love it when people love me senseless.

Fixed it for you.

[danaandvictory]

I'm only happy when it rains.

[More Cowbell]

I love it when people arrogantly pull the "fixed it for you" card while being completely wrong. No NBA team gives even an eighth of a shit about the Lubbock incident. Smart's inability to make a jump shot is a far more significant issue.

Maybe it's just me, but I don't get all the love for Marcus Smart. He is not very efficient and after this season, he cannot claim to be the consummate winner.

[LA Muskie]

I love it when people arrogantly pull the "fixed it for you" card while being completely wrong. No NBA team gives even an eighth of a shit about the Lubbock incident. Smart's inability to make a jump shot is a far more significant issue.

Except that it wasn't just that incident. In fact that wasn't even the one I was thinking of. He had some game and post-game issues with his team as well. He came across as emotionally immature this year and I do think it will affect his draft stock.

[D-West & PO-Z]

What hurt Marcus Smart was the attitude and his decisions (such as going after a fan in the stands). The little dip the team took didn't help, but they pulled out of that and made the tourney. Smart is still going to go very, very high. And his overall game, as well as his NBA-ready body, are viewed differently than Christon's. He'll still land solidly in the lottery.

By the way, I'm someone that would have encouraged Smart to leave after last year. (Same went for Sullinger at OSU.) His stock was already very, very high. Really, the only thing Smart could do was stay the same or hurt his value. In the case of Semaj, it's not. If Christon came back and had a bad season, perhaps it lowers a mid-2nd Rd value. But if he came back and showed improvement, including a jumper and better decisions, he's a lock somewhere in Rd. 1. One had nowhere to go but down. The other has a lot of room to climb.

Here's a question: if there's no guarantee of improving if he returns, there's risk of injury if he comes back and whether he's projected highly or not doesn't matter, why should Semaj have not come out after his freshman year? (Yes, I'm just playing devil's advocate on this one...there's no way he should have come out, but I also don't think he's ready now.)

You're assuming his value is mid second round. Why? That's the absolute worst I've seen him drafted, 13th in the second round. I posted a couple mocks that have him first round. Semaj obviously has more information on his perceived status than any of us.

[XUFan09]

Except that it wasn't just that incident. In fact that wasn't even the one I was thinking of. He had some game and post-game issues with his team as well. He came across as emotionally immature this year and I do think it will affect his draft stock.

Sort of like Demarcus Cousins. He fell a few spots in the draft (when he probably would have been right behind John Wall) because of emotional immaturity.

EDIT: Still think the lack of development on his shot is hurting him more, though.

[Milhouse]

I love it when people arrogantly pull the "fixed it for you" card while being completely wrong. No NBA team gives even an eighth of a shit about the Lubbock incident. Smart's inability to make a jump shot is a far more significant issue.

This exactly. All NBA scouts and GMs agreed that the incident was blown completely out of proportion by ESPN. It was not Malace in the Palace part II.

His inability to develop as a player and leader is what has led to his downfall of sorts.

Semaj's jumpshot really didn't look incredibly better this year compared to last year. We know he'll be drafted this year. If he/the team has a bad year next year it could be less likely.

[LA Muskie]

Sort of like Demarcus Cousins. He fell a few spots in the draft (when he probably would have been right behind John Wall) because of emotional immaturity.

EDIT: Still think the lack of development on his shot is hurting him more, though.
I don't disagree with that at all. I also think he failed to demonstrate that he could be a leader -- although I think that also points to his immaturity issues.

[mistabeecee41]

Define "hurt draft stock". By all accounts, the kid is still a top 10 pick.

[XfansinKy]

I would think after Semaj is drafted with basketball as his profession and career, he will shoot a ton of long range jumpers daily with a shooting coach. His speed is elite. His leaping ability is elite. His quickness is elite. He's 6'3 with a frame that looks capable of putting on 20 lbs of muscle if he choses. He is to me exactly the type of point guard the NBA is using nowadays. Also Mack can finally tell recruits and their family members that he has recruited, coached, and sent a player to the NBA. I just think he is an NBA prototype PG.

[xufan2434]

This exactly. All NBA scouts and GMs agreed that the incident was blown completely out of proportion by ESPN. It was not Malace in the Palace part II.

His inability to develop as a player and leader is what has led to his downfall of sorts.

Semaj's jumpshot really didn't look incredibly better this year compared to last year. We know he'll be drafted this year. If he/the team has a bad year next year it could be less likely.

I was just about to bring this up.. Yeah his shooting % got better this year, but that's because the only time he really shot 3's were when he was wide open. The only big time 3 I remember him hitting this year was against UC. His shot may get better by staying a year at X but I think NBA GM's know they can develop his shot just as much. There are plenty of guys that become pretty good outside shooters in the association that weren't that good in college. They do actually teach up there.

[Milhouse]

I was just about to bring this up.. Yeah his shooting % got better this year, but that's because the only time he really shot 3's were when he was wide open. The only big time 3 I remember him hitting this year was against UC. His shot may get better by staying a year at X but I think NBA GM's know they can develop his shot just as much. There are plenty of guys that become pretty good outside shooters in the association that weren't that good in college. They do actually teach up there.

Westbrook is a pretty good example of that.

His 10-12 foot jumpshot was alright but inconsistent in college, but the Thunder really helped him develop it.

Would love to see Maj go to Thunder or Pacers or portland where they are so dedicated to developing young talent. Also could see him going to the heat as I believe Norris Cole's contract will be up and I don't know that he'll be renewed...probably depends on whats going on with the big 3.

[Masterofreality]

I heard Jim Boeheim on John Feinstein's radio show this morning. Feinstein asks Boeheim about Tyler Ennis' decision to declare for the Draft. Boeheim, who has had many guys go early, had a very interesting answer.

He said that he was against it. The reason not being because Ennis didn't potentially have NBA talent. It was because Ennis wasn't NBA ready physically. Boehein went on to say that Dion Waiters was actually less accomplished skill wise than Ennis, but that his body was physically ready to withstand going against grown men on an every day basis. He did not feel that Ennis was there and one more year would have given him that. He wrapped up by saying that guys who come out too early wind up being drafted...if they are at all, later in the rounds by the better teams who don't necessarily need them, then sit them on the bench, they never fully develop and they're out of the league in 2-3 years. Guys who come out at the proper time get drafted by teams who really need them so they play and grow quickly.

This is one of my fears about Semaj. He was still dealing with leg cramps, for Gawds' sake early this year. Can anyone say, looking at him, that his body is NBA ready....That he shouldn't take a year to get stronger? Not me.

Linked to this, The following article below about Ennis basically sums up my feelings as to why I think Semaj is making a huge mistake- along with Boeheim's observations above.

http://www.rantsports.com/nba/2014/04/01/2014-nba-draft-5-reasons-tyler-ennis-made-the-wrong-choice-declaring/#slide10

Maybe Semaj will prove me wrong in all of these workouts that NBA teams will put this through pre-draft. If so, that would move him up the charts.

I hope for his sake that he does.

[GoMuskies]

Tyler Ennis can't handle Dayton, but he's going to handle the Heat? Ok.

He'll probably fare just fine against the Sixers, who might be worse than Dayton at this point.

[Xavier]

Did you think Matthew Dellavedova was physically ready for the NBA? Still shocked he plays for the CAVS

[Xman95]

Did you think Matthew Dellavedova was physically ready for the NBA? Still shocked he plays for the CAVS

Maybe not, but he had no choice and couldn't go back to school. He'll be 24 this year so he may still fill out a little more, but he's listed at 200 lbs. right now. He also wasn't drafted despite being St. Mary's all time leader in points, assists, 3-pointers made and FT %. This is a player that does the little things.

My guess is that you're a Cavs fan that hates Dellavedova and wishes the Cavs would cut him, as there are several with that thought process. I'll tell you this: he's probably in line for a career as an NBA journeyman. But as of now - in just his rookie year - his shooting (38% on 771 career 3's, 86% career FT %) and decision-making (senior yr: 223 assists, 99 TO; compare to Christon's 142/89 last season) are beyond that of Semaj. Is he great? Absolutely not. That's why he's essentially the 3rd PG, further down the depth chart if want to count Waiters in the mix at PG.

Is Semaj really leaving for a chance to be a 3rd PG? I doubt it, but it's a very real possibility. It's also possible he lands in the D-League. Most NBA teams are looking for back-up PG's that make good decisions, don't turn the ball over, and generally don't hurt the team while the starter is out. At this point, I'm not sure Semaj is going to fit that bill.

Like MOR, I hope I'm completely wrong on this and he tears it up in pre-draft camps. I would be thrilled to see him in the NBA next year. But, personally, I don't think it was a wise decision...from a basketball standpoint. (Figured I should point that out before anybody starts with the $ crap and even if he plays overseas, blah, blah, blah. Kid says he wants to play in the NBA.)

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://nbadraft.net/2014mock_draft
NBA draft net updated their mock today and they have Semaj as #1 pick in the second round, #31 overall.

http://www.nbadraftroom.com/p/2014-2-round-nba-mock.html
This one has him #7 in the 2nd round, #38 overall.

http://www.basketballinsiders.com/full-2014-nba-mock-draft-33114/
Same here #7 in second round, #38 overall

http://www.nbadraftinsider.com/2014-nba-draft-prospects/2014-nba-mock-draft/
Again here #7 2nd, #38 overall

Obviously a lot will deopend on the workouts. Semaj will probably have to show the scouts in whatever workouts he competes in that he can run the point, because that is where his value lies. He would be a big PG with great quickness, needs to show he can handle the PG role.

[Xavier]

Xman95--I am a big NBA fan but don't really have a favorite team. I have hardly watched the CAVS at all, my point was if he can take the physicality of the NBA I think semaj can. I also think if you told a lot of college guards they would be the 3rd PG on a team and become an NBA journeyman they would take that over another year of college.

[Lloyd Braun]

This could be debated forever but let's say he decided to stay another year. He would then be 23 years old at the start of his NBA career. That extra year makes a big difference- not from a career earnings perspective but where you are drafted. Take a look at where 22 year olds are drafted routinely. There are not a lot of first rounders (3 last year in the weakest draft in 10 years). He would have to have a MONSTER year next year at X to improve his stock because the difference in a 21 and 22 year old is big to those drafting these players. They are intrigued by the untapped potential. I think it's obvious he needs to improve his game to contribute on an NBA level but that's the case for most of the players outside the lottery.

[Snipe]

Then he really should have left last year.

[Milhouse]

Rick or Dan pointed out on the podcast that if he came back there's a very good chance the team does a lot better than this year...but not a great chance that Maj averages more than 17 ppg on a loaded team.

I do watch a lot of NBA and follow it regularly. By a lot of people's analysis it really seems like they only watch college and maybe the NBA playoffs. I honestly think he'll be on a roster next year. He may be a late bloomer ala Stephenson but I think he'll stick around the league.

[smileyy]

Then he really should have left last year.

Quite possible. He was being projected as a lottery pick then, in this year's draft.

[smileyy]

I do watch a lot of NBA and follow it regularly. By a lot of people's analysis it really seems like they only watch college and maybe the NBA playoffs. I honestly think he'll be on a roster next year. He may be a late bloomer ala Stephenson but I think he'll stick around the league.

If he has the talent and work ethic, he'll stay in the league. If he doesn't have the talent, another year isn't going to change anything. If he doesn't have the work ethic another year in school won't help him develop. If you can't motivate yourself to play for a paycheck, for your livelihood, I don't know what you can motivate yourself for.

[mistabeecee41]

All it takes is 1 team to like him. As we all saw this year - he has the abilities to absolutely dominate at some points. If a team is looking for a point late in the first round and brings in some fringe PG guys for a group workout (Payton, Burton, Carson, Napier, Semaj), we all know if he's on his A-game, he could absolutely dominate these guys. Plus, I think his game lends itself to playing well in 2 on 2 and 3 on 3 situations, which are how a lot of these NBA team workouts are setup.

Speaking of that group of guys, obviously I'm biased but I have no idea WHY the draft "Experts" all have boners over this Elfrid Payton guy but are doubting Semaj. Maybe it's kind of a obscure pick that could make them look down down the road if he pans out. Payton is 6'3 point guard, explosive quickness, nice athleticism. Has problems shooting the 3 and FT's. More of a combo guard, not a true point. Sound familiar? Difference is - Semaj's is a better shooter and put his numbers up against much better competition.

[LA Muskie]

All it takes is 1 team to like him. As we all saw this year - he has the abilities to absolutely dominate at some points. If a team is looking for a point late in the first round and brings in some fringe PG guys for a group workout (Payton, Burton, Carson, Napier, Semaj), we all know if he's on his A-game, he could absolutely dominate these guys. Plus, I think his game lends itself to playing well in 2 on 2 and 3 on 3 situations, which are how a lot of these NBA team workouts are setup.

Speaking of that group of guys, obviously I'm biased but I have no idea WHY the draft "Experts" all have boners over this Elfrid Payton guy but are doubting Semaj. Maybe it's kind of a obscure pick that could make them look down down the road if he pans out. Payton is 6'3 point guard, explosive quickness, nice athleticism. Has problems shooting the 3 and FT's. More of a combo guard, not a true point. Sound familiar? Difference is - Semaj's is a better shooter and put his numbers up against much better competition.

Actually, it takes 1 team to like him more than anyone else left on the board. I disagree with anyone who thinks he won't get drafted. He will. The question is by whom, and what situation that puts him in. I agree with Boeheim -- languishing on an NBA bench can be career suicide. As for the mock drafts, it seems to me those are meaningless until the season ends and the lottery has been resolved. A lot of teams have to draft for specific needs, and those needs will dictate a lot of the picks.

[james notsirhc 0]

If he has the talent and work ethic, he'll stay in the league. If he doesn't have the talent, another year isn't going to change anything. If he doesn't have the work ethic another year in school won't help him develop. If you can't motivate yourself to play for a paycheck, for your livelihood, I don't know what you can motivate yourself for.

First off, Semaj will play professional ball somewhere. In my eyes the argument for him staying and leaving are fairly even. On one hand, NBA scouts could potentially lose faith in a "talent" pick who has had awhile to develop his game. This could definitely occur if he didn't improve his weak spots, such as shooting and turnovers(he'd still get drafted though). The argument for him staying is that he could improve his stock and get a guaranteed contract in 2015. Without a guaranteed contract, unless he squeaks into the first round this year, a multitude of things could go wrong to prevent him from making a team;be it a coaching disagreement or struggling to find his role. If that were to occur he'd probably go to the DLeague or Europe. Unfortunately, few players make a successful jump back to the NBA after this. I think he has the up & down type game for the NBA, but it truly comes down to opportunity. He'll also change his role to distributor and floor general, which he could've done next year. It seemed like his play style wasn't suited to carry the scoring burden we put on him these past 2 years.

On a side note, I can't remember a time where a single position in the NBA was as insanely stacked as PG is right now... Doesn't exactly help.

It was a financially safe move, from a kid who apparently needed it. Wish him the best and think he has a chance at being better than JCraw given the right situation. Maybe even a fringe all-star player if he can start throwing dimes left and right.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Actually, it takes 1 team to like him more than anyone else left on the board. I disagree with anyone who thinks he won't get drafted. He will. The question is by whom, and what situation that puts him in. I agree with Boeheim -- languishing on an NBA bench can be career suicide. As for the mock drafts, it seems to me those are meaningless until the season ends and the lottery has been resolved. A lot of teams have to draft for specific needs, and those needs will dictate a lot of the picks.

Not really, what does it matter how the lottery gets resolved. Semaj wont go in the lottery and any of the top 15-20 players are going to go in those top 15-20 spots regardless of order. Teams will take a more talented player even if he doesnt necessarily fit a need, as opposed to reach for someone just because of position.

What will affect it more is seeing which players are in and which are out. I guess there is serious talk about Parker going back to Duke. That right there automatically opens up another spot in the first round.

[Juice]

Not really, what does it matter how the lottery gets resolved. Semaj wont go in the lottery and any of the top 15-20 players are going to go in those top 15-20 spots regardless of order. Teams will take a more talented player even if he doesnt necessarily fit a need, as opposed to reach for someone just because of position.

What will affect it more is seeing which players are in and which are out. I guess there is serious talk about Parker going back to Duke. That right there automatically opens up another spot in the first round.

Jabari has been poisoned by the mormons if he stays.

[waggy]

You meant to say poisoned by Benjamin's, right?

[LA Muskie]

Not really, what does it matter how the lottery gets resolved. Semaj wont go in the lottery and any of the top 15-20 players are going to go in those top 15-20 spots regardless of order. Teams will take a more talented player even if he doesnt necessarily fit a need, as opposed to reach for someone just because of position.

What will affect it more is seeing which players are in and which are out. I guess there is serious talk about Parker going back to Duke. That right there automatically opens up another spot in the first round.
I shouldn't have said anything about the lottery -- you're right, for the most part the top 15-20 will go in the top 15-20 even if "need" advances or drops them a spot or two. On the other hand, teams drafting outside that first 15-20 are much more likely to draft on need (or to draft international players who may not yet be ready or eligible for the NBA). That's why the range gets wide where Semaj is (together with the fact that the talent level in that range is heavily compressed).

[XfansinKy]

I believe he has an opportunity to go late in the 1st round and wind up being a backup to an all-star type PG. That would be ideal.

[wkrq59]

Simply put, the day he signed his letter of intent with Xavier, he was 2-and-done at the maximum, one-and-done at the optimum. I truly believe Semaj let Xavier and Chris Mack know when he came to Xavier that 2 years was maximum he would be at the school. I lament for about a few minutes the fact that a college degree may not be in his future, and that is his loss. But I also can not posit the many other "what if..." theorems that have flourished here and elsewhere.
Since the die has been cast, the numbers Semaj planned for have come up, I wish him well and thank him for what he gave to Xavier in return for what Xavier gave to him. It's a waste and not really fair to have any other feelings for Semaj but good ones. That is not to say it's wrong to think about "What might have been." Given the pre-existing circumstances and Semaj's apparent thinking and planning, it's just whistful dreaming and little else. Bon Voyage Semaj, may your shots always fall, you defense be strong and tall, your passes be converted to scores and you be given a guaranteed contract and happily enjoy the career you've chosen. More than that, we can't and maybe shouldn't offer.

[casualfan]

Just checked in on 'Maj and he had a rough night last night going 1-16 from the field for a total of three points.

The good news is he had 11 assists to only 5 turnovers.

[crolfes12]

@MySportsLegion
"Thunder point guard Reggie Jackson has formally requested to be traded before tomorrow's deadline. (via Y!)"

If this happens, Semaj may be called up. Mack mentioned on his radio show the Thunder's plan was to give Semaj some time in the d league and when Jackson leaves, he would then be called up

[Milhouse]

Would be a pressure situation for Maj as Thunder are still 1 game out of 8th place. But at the same time having Russ and KD as two guys to pass too is pretty nice.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

They will trade for a guard if he goes. The odds that Maj will get the call are low but not out of the realm of possibility. They do need frontline help though.

[Chalmers0]

I would be STUNNED if Semaj is called up this season, whether Jackson is traded or not. I think next year is a legitimate possibility though.

[mistabeecee41]

I would be STUNNED if Semaj is called up this season, whether Jackson is traded or not. I think next year is a legitimate possibility though.

yep. even if they trade Jackson for frontline help, the odds they call up an unproven rookie as opposed to signing a FA veteran PG while they're trying to chase the playoffs are very low.

[BMoreX]

Looks like Reggie Jackson is going to Brooklyn. Semaj might get his chance

[Xavier_Musketeers]

They will trade for a guard if he goes.

As of right now they are looking for a center.

[Juice]

Looks like Reggie Jackson is going to Brooklyn. Semaj might get his chance

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA 1h1 hour ago
If OKC completes the Brook Lopez-Reggie Jackson deal, Thunder could make a move for Miami's Norris Cole, league sources tell Yahoo Sports.

[ammtd34]

Adrian Wojnarowski ‏@WojYahooNBA 1h1 hour ago
If OKC completes the Brook Lopez-Reggie Jackson deal, Thunder could make a move for Miami's Norris Cole, league sources tell Yahoo Sports.

Woj has been on fire today.

[BandAid]

If the Thunder pull off getting Cole and Lopez for Reggie Jackson and not much else - wow

[THRILLHOUSE]

David Aldridge ‏@daldridgetnt 3m3 minutes ago
In Utah-OKC-Detroit deal, Thunder get guard D.J. Augustin and Kyle Singler from Pistons, Steve Novak from Jazz.

[XU Cowbell Kid]

Interesting article on ESPN about kids that wind up in the NBA D-League. The basic point of the story - hanging out in the D-League is rarely a way to get to the NBA. A lot of people leave college early and end up there instead of staying in school or playing in Europe.

Then they use Semaj as an example of when it actually works out for a player to go to the D-League. While he is having a great year, I'm surprised they are already claiming this as a success before Semaj sees NBA action.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/12342809/going-college-basketball-nbdl-easy

[D-West & PO-Z]

Interesting article on ESPN about kids that wind up in the NBA D-League. The basic point of the story - hanging out in the D-League is rarely a way to get to the NBA. A lot of people leave college early and end up there instead of staying in school or playing in Europe.

Then they use Semaj as an example of when it actually works out for a player to go to the D-League. While he is having a great year, I'm surprised they are already claiming this as a success before Semaj sees NBA action.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/12342809/going-college-basketball-nbdl-easy

I saw this too, I think when they said it pays off for some they may have been more referring to guys who are actually sent there by NBA teams and doing well, as he was selected as a D League All Star. The article mentioned so many of those guys who arent sent by NBA teams and barely make any money and have no real shot at making an NBA team. Semaj is associated with an actual team, making better than most money, and has a legit chance to make a roster.

[XUFan09]

I imagine they also know how OKC is ahead of the curve in terms of D-League management, treating it as a true farm system.

[Masterofreality]

Pretty good prognosis:

http://kfor.com/2015/02/23/okc-blue-guard-semaj-christon-shining/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

[nuts4xu]

Pretty good prognosis:

http://kfor.com/2015/02/23/okc-blue-guard-semaj-christon-shining/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Mix in some "" so we know when the heck it is a quote. Very odd writing style.

[Masterofreality]

Mix in some "" so we know when the heck it is a quote. Very odd writing style.

Very true.

[THRILLHOUSE]

Mix in some "" so we know when the heck it is a quote. Very odd writing style.

Since it was originally a video segment, they probably just copied and pasted what was in the voiceover script for the online copy.

[ammtd34]

I read that article this morning. It seemed like it was written by someone whose second language was English. Thrillhouse's suggestion seems more likely.

[Bulldawg]

Noticed you guys were talking about the D-League. If you guys remember, Shelvin Mack went in the second round of the draft a few years back and ended up in the D-League pretty quickly. Well, he led the D-League in scoring pretty much every time he got send down there and now he's ended up on the Hawks these past 2 seasons. He had a really good year as a backup PG last year, and this year he's gotten less playtime, but the Hawks are really good. With the numbers Semaj is putting up its likely he'll find a good backup spot like Shelvin did.

[Xavier]

I follow the Hawks a bit and to his credit, Mack is a decent enough player. Don't know his contract but can't imagine the Hawks want to keep him on as a third string PG though

[Milhouse]

I follow the Hawks a bit and to his credit, Mack is a decent enough player. Don't know his contract but can't imagine the Hawks want to keep him on as a third string PG though

http://www.peachtreehoops.com/2014/7/25/5937831/shelvin-mack-signs-contract-atlanta-hawks

3 year 7 Million contract this summer. Not huge money by NBA standards but very very good. He's turned into a good role player over there

[Xavier]

I don't really think he has much of a role to be honest. He has played in 33 of the Hawks 57 games this year. 7 in the last two months (Hawks played 26 games). Unless he had an injury which I didn't hear about (very possible) the Hawks are not using him much at all and he is hardly in the rotation these days.

[bobbiemcgee]

Wonder what our record would be with Semaj and Dez on the team this yr.?

[GoMuskies]

Wonder what our record would be with Semaj and Dez on the team this yr.?

103-0

[D-West & PO-Z]

103-0

Don't short change them Go.

At least double that. 206-0 for sure.

[Bulldawg]

I don't really think he has much of a role to be honest. He has played in 33 of the Hawks 57 games this year. 7 in the last two months (Hawks played 26 games). Unless he had an injury which I didn't hear about (very possible) the Hawks are not using him much at all and he is hardly in the rotation these days.

While his role is diminishing, he's got a contract where he will be around for a while. He has had some knee problems from what I've heard this season.

[LA Muskie]

He's making well more than the veteran's minimum while playing end-of-bench minutes. I like Sheldon but I don't see that lasting for long -- with the cap a contending team just can't "waste" that space for 3 years.

The article says Year 3 is a team option. If that's the case I suspect he'll be expiring contract trade bait next year. Either way, barring a rebound year next year, I don't see ATL or anyone else picking up Year 3.

[paulxu]

Sorry if posted elsewhere and I missed it.
Nice recap on his season in the D league. I really hope someone gives him a shot.
(trying not to dwell on what our season might have been).
Good luck Semaj!

http://www.cincinnati.com/story/xaviersports/2015/04/09/former-xu-guard-semaj-christon-shines-in-d-league/25514189/

[LA Muskie]

I tried watching an OKC v Santa Clara playoff game Friday night. It was fugly.

[X-band '01]

It couldn't be uglier than the Knicks-Magic last night.

[NY44]

1 year in and I think Maj made the right choice. He has a great D League season under his belt and some money in his pocket. At 22, it's hard to guarantee his NBA prospects would have been better with another year at X.

[Masterofreality]

Not so sure about the "money in the pocket". At $15,000 that may or may not even cover his living expenses that would have been covered at Xavier.

Basketball wise, probably the right decision for him and Xavier was fine. Financially for this year alone, not so good. Obviously if it enhances his NBA prospects going forward, the equation changes, but time will tell.

[Milhouse]

Not so sure about the "money in the pocket". At $15,000 that may or may not even cover his living expenses that would have been covered at Xavier.

Basketball wise, probably the right decision for him and Xavier was fine. Financially for this year alone, not so good. Obviously if it enhances his NBA prospects going forward, the equation changes, but time will tell.

NBA D League covers pretty much everything though. Food Stipends, Housing, etc....I believe it goes down to Cell Phone and transportation even.


I am positive he would've been called up this year if his rights were not exclusive. Hopefully it only ends up helping him with the OKC organizaiton.

[JTG]

OKC is Westbrook and 10 stiffs this year, without Durant. If he's any good at all how did he not get called up ?

[Juice]

OKC is Westbrook and 10 stiffs this year, without Durant. If he's any good at all how did he not get called up ?

You think he's better than Waiters, Morrow, and Augustin?

[mistabeecee41]

You think he's better than Waiters, Morrow, and Augustin?

Nope, I bet if they had fallen out of playoff contention Maj would have gotten a call up.

Also, Dion Waiters is Jordan Crawford 2.0. Except he was taken 4th instead of like 28th.

[X Factor]

OKC is Westbrook and 10 stiffs this year, without Durant. If he's any good at all how did he not get called up ?

It's not always that easy. Kris Bryant is probably the best prospect in all of baseball. He killed it for the Cubs in spring training this year, after making mince meat out of double and triple A pitching last year. The Cubs sent him back down to Triple A to start the year. He is definitely good enough to be in the major leagues, but it was a financial decision to start him off in the minors.

Not saying that's what OKC is doing with Semaj, but maybe there was some financial reasons involved.

[LA Muskie]

Bryant got sent to the minors so the Cubs could squeeze another pre-FA year of service out of him. He will be in the majors the moment they can do so without prejudicing that right.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Not so sure about the "money in the pocket". At $15,000 that may or may not even cover his living expenses that would have been covered at Xavier.

Basketball wise, probably the right decision for him and Xavier was fine. Financially for this year alone, not so good. Obviously if it enhances his NBA prospects going forward, the equation changes, but time will tell.

Has that number been published somewhere? I was under the impression that guys in the D-league that were drafted and sent there get compensated a lot better than the guys who just try out for and make a D-league team. I cant find a whole lot of info on that though.

I do think though that him having an all star season in the d-league probably helps him out more than coming back to XU and having a good season. We will never know though.

[JTG]

You think he's better than Waiters, Morrow, and Augustin?

They played the Pacers last night. It was 4 guys standing around waiting for Westbrook to do something.

[X-band '01]

OKC better find a way to win tonight without Westbrook; he's suspended for a game after picking up his 16th T last night against the Pacers.

Kind of amazing that the Pacers are still alive for a possible postseason bid even without Paul George for most of the season.

[D-West & PO-Z]

OKC better find a way to win tonight without Westbrook; he's suspended for a game after picking up his 16th T last night against the Pacers.

Kind of amazing that the Pacers are still alive for a possible postseason bid even without Paul George for most of the season.

Might be better for OKC if they dont. They arent going anywhere this year, might have Durant for only one more year. Getting into the lottery might help them.

[Juice]

They played the Pacers last night. It was 4 guys standing around waiting for Westbrook to do something.

Well for one, when someone stops Russell Westbrook, let me know. And two, Waiters, Morrow, and Augustin may not be awesome NBA players but I guarantee that they're all better NBA players than Semaj at this point.

[X-band '01]

Might be better for OKC if they dont. They arent going anywhere this year, might have Durant for only one more year. Getting into the lottery might help them.

They would have the lowest odds of winning the lottery. Conspiracy theorists are already debating between the 76ers, Knicks and Lakers for the top pick anyhow.

Speaking of the lottery, I wonder how the Boston front office feels. They were probably hoping to be a lottery pick this year, but now they're sitting in the 7 hole with a potential 1st-round matchup against the Cavs. I know they beat up on the Cavs reserves for the past 2 games, but who knows how they'll do once Cleveland gets the A-team ready for the playoffs.

[XUFan09]

Well for one, when someone stops Russell Westbrook, let me know. And two, Waiters, Morrow, and Augustin may not be awesome NBA players but I guarantee that they're all better NBA players than Semaj at this point.
Exactly. They don't have to be good players. They just have to be better than an unproven rookie. Heck, they could be marginally worse and still OKC wouldn't want to hamper his development by bringing him up.

[LA Muskie]

OKC better find a way to win tonight without Westbrook; he's suspended for a game after picking up his 16th T last night against the Pacers.

Kind of amazing that the Pacers are still alive for a possible postseason bid even without Paul George for most of the season.
Not any more. The NBA "rescinded" the Technical call. How the league office reverses an on-the-court, unsportsmanlike conduct judgment call is beyond me. Except, well, they want him to play...

[LA Muskie]

I tried watching an OKC v Santa Clara playoff game Friday night. It was fugly.
I probably should have been more descriptive. I now see how some guys (including Semaj) put up absurd offensive numbers in that league. They play less defense than an AAU game. Total run-and-chuck. I can only imagine the NBA teams take D-League statistics with a tiny grain of salt.

[xavierj]

They played the Pacers last night. It was 4 guys standing around waiting for Westbrook to do something.

Well that is the coaches and Westbrooks fault. He took 43 shots. Maybe if he passed the ball the other guys would not have been perceived to be standing around. 43 shots, is Kelly Leak esque albeit a different sport.

[smileyy]

Well for one, when someone stops Russell Westbrook, let me know. And two, Waiters, Morrow, and Augustin may not be awesome NBA players but I guarantee that they're all better NBA players than Semaj at this point.

Dion Waiters, I'm not so sure about.

[Juice]

Well that is the coaches and Westbrooks fault. He took 43 shots. Maybe if he passed the ball the other guys would not have been perceived to be standing around. 43 shots, is Kelly Leak esque albeit a different sport.

He made 49% of his shots! He also added 9 rebounds, 8 assists, and only 2 turnovers. What the hell do you want from the guy?

[xavierj]

He made 49% of his shots! He also added 9 rebounds, 8 assists, and only 2 turnovers. What the hell do you want from the guy?

I don't know. As a guy who coaches a little I'm just not sure one guy taking 43 shots is a good thing for team basketball, which actually wins games. When one guy takes all of the shots it becomes really easy to beat your team.

[Masterofreality]

Has that number been published somewhere? I was under the impression that guys in the D-league that were drafted and sent there get compensated a lot better than the guys who just try out for and make a D-league team. I cant find a whole lot of info on that though.

I do think though that him having an all star season in the d-league probably helps him out more than coming back to XU and having a good season. We will never know though.

Unless he was signed to an NBA Standard Players' Contract- which teams just don't give out like candy due to Salary Cap considerations, he'd get D-League scale. Scale for rookies is about $13,000. JCraw is probably making $25,000. Joe Harris of the Cavs was drafted, has played most of the year for the Canton Charge of the D-League, but he signed a Standard NBA contract.

Semaj may only be making $13,000. The per diem is only $40 per day. Not champagne money. He may have gotten this deal, but I doubt it because, to my knowledge, OKC has retained all of Semaj' rights.:

"NBA teams have funneled extra cash to D-League players by signing them to partially guaranteed contracts for training camp, waiving them and then assigning them to their D-League affiliate. But not every player gets that deal, and there’s only so much in it for the NBA squads, who don’t keep the exclusive NBA rights of those players. It’s a teetering workaround for now."

http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/2014/11/14/d-league-salaries-remain-low/

[X-band '01]

Not any more. The NBA "rescinded" the Technical call. How the league office reverses an on-the-court, unsportsmanlike conduct judgment call is beyond me. Except, well, they want him to play...

Now that I think about it, is it really life or death that he play tonight? They're playing at home against a Portland team that's locked into the #4 seed and will start on the road no matter what. They have nothing to play for and can also rest some of their regulars tonight.

[XfansinKy]

Semaj stayed a fifth year in high school to play ball right? Add two years of college and another year or two in the D League and this kid has definitely paid his dues. Gotta figure if he makes it he will understand a little bit about managing a dollar as it didn't come easy.

[LA Muskie]

Now that I think about it, is it really life or death that he play tonight? They're playing at home against a Portland team that's locked into the #4 seed and will start on the road no matter what. They have nothing to play for and can also rest some of their regulars tonight.
It's about as close to life-or-death as they come for OKC. They are tied with New Orleans for the final playoff spot with 1 game to go, and NO has the tie-breaker. So OKC needs to win and NO need to lose.

Admittedly it's not remotely as big a deal for Portland. But if the worst teams in the league can win about 25% of their games, an uninspired Portland team -- even resting some of its players -- easily could steal the game.

Probable? Maybe not with Westbrook on the floor. But it would have been an interesting bet in Vegas if he couldn't play.

[Snipe]

I think Semaj made a bad choice. We could have been ranked all year with him. It would have been one heck of a deep squad, and he would have been on the national stage. I bet he had some regrets watching us go to the Sweet 16. Somebody should have pointed out what a bone headed decision it was to leave early. If only someone here had that prescience.....

[waggy]

Semaj is playing PG in D league, correct?

[XUFan09]

I think Semaj made a bad choice. We could have been ranked all year with him. It would have been one heck of a deep squad, and he would have been on the national stage. I bet he had some regrets watching us go to the Sweet 16. Somebody should have pointed out what a bone headed decision it was to leave early. If only someone here had that prescience.....
And he still would have been drafted in the second round.

[ammtd34]

And he still would have been drafted in the second round.

While being another year older.

[Backyard Champ]

I think Semaj made a bad choice. We could have been ranked all year with him. It would have been one heck of a deep squad, and he would have been on the national stage. I bet he had some regrets watching us go to the Sweet 16. Somebody should have pointed out what a bone headed decision it was to leave early. If only someone here had that prescience.....

I highly doubt he has had any regrets. I think it's comical you think he would regret leaving because he saw us get to a sweet 16. He made the right decision, I'd say almost everyone who knows the NBA agrees with that.

[waggy]

I highly doubt he has had any regrets. I think it's comical you think he would regret leaving because he saw us get to a sweet 16. He made the right decision, I'd say almost everyone who knows the NBA agrees with that.


It comes down to what round he'd be drafted in this year. Is there any chance he would've been a 1st rounder? Very very slim chance? Decent chance with an Elite 8?

I tend to agree he'd still be a 2nd rounder, but I also don't think he would have zero chance of going in the first. I don't follow NBA draft prospects though.

[D-West & PO-Z]

It would probably be tough for him to be a first rd pick this year if he stayed. He wouldnt have played PG primarily. Also 7 1st rd slots may go to players from one freaking school.

[muethibp]

I don't know. As a guy who coaches a little I'm just not sure one guy taking 43 shots is a good thing for team basketball, which actually wins games. When one guy takes all of the shots it becomes really easy to beat your team.

A coach's job should be to try to put the ball in the basket as often as possible. If Russell is far and away the best player on the team - and he definitely is - then they maximize their chances with him shooting that often if he can make half of them. They might well have needed him to shoot more.

[Juice]

It comes down to what round he'd be drafted in this year. Is there any chance he would've been a 1st rounder? Very very slim chance? Decent chance with an Elite 8?

I tend to agree he'd still be a 2nd rounder, but I also don't think he would have zero chance of going in the first. I don't follow NBA draft prospects though.

XU making an elite 8 would have done little to nothing with Semaj moving up a draft board. Jahlil Okafor won a national championship and Karl Anthony Towns will still be taken before him. Dangelo Russell played for an absolutely mediocre OSU team and will be a top 5 pick for sure.

[waggy]

XU making an elite 8 would have done little to nothing with Semaj moving up a draft board. Jahlil Okafor won a national championship and Karl Anthony Towns will still be taken before him. Dangelo Russell played for an absolutely mediocre OSU team and will be a top 5 pick for sure.

It's an interesting thing to think about with X and Semaj. How they might've played. X played inside out. Dee was patient. I have a hard time imaging Semaj passing the ball into the post more than once. Not saying he was selfish just maybe not patient. And I didn't even stay at a holiday inn last night.

[LA Muskie]

A coach's job should be to try to put the ball in the basket as often as possible. If Russell is far and away the best player on the team - and he definitely is - then they maximize their chances with him shooting that often if he can make half of them. They might well have needed him to shoot more.
On its face, 54 pts on 49% shooting sounds pretty good. But according to ESPN (http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/12676732/russell-westbrook-oklahoma-city-thunder-scores-54-sit-next-game-16th-technical-foul), of the 187 50+ pt games in the last 30 years only 4 have been less efficient.

[XU Cowbell Kid]

I have no idea if this guy was being honest, but I was wearing my X shirt around town and someone who claimed to be Semaj's agent's cousin struck up a conversation with me. (Apparently Semaj and Jason Love have the same agent, we talked about him too.) According to this guy, Semaj's contract specifically outlined a deal where he would play in the D-League for one year and then would be moved up to the NBA roster for his second year. This guy seemed pretty confident that Semaj would be part of the Thunder next season.

Does anyone know if there could be some truth in this? The guy used the word "guaranteed" multiple times, though I can't be sure if he knew the weight that that term can hold in contracts. I doubt an NBA team would give a guaranteed contract to a guy to go play on a D-League team. But is there precedence for teams to sign contracts with players where it calls out a specific amount of time for them to spend in the D-League and then moving them up? I don't really know how D-League contracts work.

Whether there is any truth to it or not, I had three different people come up to me and start talking Xavier basketball with me throughout the day. It's always fun when random people give X some love!

[paulxu]

I have no idea if this guy was being honest, but I was wearing my X shirt around town and someone who claimed to be Semaj's agent's cousin struck up a conversation with me.

You met Drudy in person?

[LA Muskie]

If Semaj was on a "guaranteed" contract relating to the Thunder in any way, it would have to comply with the NBA CBA and he would have counted against the Thunder's cap. So I'm nearly certain it's not a contractual guarantee. That said there is some precedent for teams promise-not promising things of this sort.

There's even some precedent for drafting players on the condition they won't actually get signed to an NBA contract initially. I can't remember all the details but it happened last year and the players' association was none too happy. So expect to see that loophole closed in the next CBA.

[Masterofreality]

Whether there is any truth to it or not, I had three different people come up to me and start talking Xavier basketball with me throughout the day. It's always fun when random people give X some love!

Although we've owned the 513 for years, I love the way we've sneaked (snuck) up on the Borecats with the average, not necessarily connected fan in Southwest Ohio. Xavier is becoming the school of choice to follow.

How anyone who loves basketball can become a fan of the ugly, brick laying, pastry cart scheduling on-court activity that SucKS puts out there, I have no idea. The self-serving yellow toothed jaundiced Leprechaun doesn't help that either.

[XUPhilly04]

Although we've owned the 513 for years, I love the way we've sneaked (snuck) up on the Borecats with the average, not necessarily connected fan in Southwest Ohio. Xavier is becoming the school of choice to follow.

How anyone who loves basketball can become a fan of the ugly, brick laying, pastry cart scheduling on-court activity that SucKS puts out there, I have no idea. The self-serving yellow toothed jaundiced Leprechaun doesn't help that either.

I agree. While most Cincinnati transplants will likely already have a team to root for, I believe that more people than ever are picking XU as the local team they prefer to cheer for. Also, take note of the professional athletes going to X games, Latos, Pac man, etc.For UC, only alumni and/or those born inside the 275loop pick UC.

[X-band '01]

Will Mat Latos still be coming to Xavier next year (now that he's with the Marlins)?

[LA Muskie]

If Semaj was on a "guaranteed" contract relating to the Thunder in any way, it would have to comply with the NBA CBA and he would have counted against the Thunder's cap. So I'm nearly certain it's not a contractual guarantee. That said there is some precedent for teams promise-not promising things of this sort.

There's even some precedent for drafting players on the condition they won't actually get signed to an NBA contract initially. I can't remember all the details but it happened last year and the players' association was none too happy. So expect to see that loophole closed in the next CBA.

According to ESPN, OKC has 13 players under guaranteed contract next year (none of which are Semaj). Plus, they are obviously in build-a-championship-team mode to try to keep Durant around after next season. The salary cap and luxury tax will not be impediments. They also have plenty of youth on their roster already. I just don't see room for Semaj on that bench, much less the floor. Hopefully he can latch on somewhere else.

[Masterofreality]

According to ESPN, OKC has 13 players under guaranteed contract next year (none of which are Semaj). Plus, they are obviously in build-a-championship-team mode to try to keep Durant around after next season. The salary cap and luxury tax will not be impediments. They also have plenty of youth on their roster already. I just don't see room for Semaj on that bench, much less the floor. Hopefully he can latch on somewhere else.

Semaj made 3rd Team DLeague All Rookie Team. Not 1st or 2nd Team. That means that he was not among the Top 10 rookies in the DLeague.

Hmmmmm.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

I saw what he was doing on the court. He will get his chance, but probably not for OKC. That is unless what new coach they get really likes something in him.

[Juice]

I saw what he was doing on the court. He will get his chance, but probably not for OKC. That is unless what new coach they get really likes something in him.

I see it as more likely that they blow that thing up in a year or two rather than reloading.

[LA Muskie]

They didn't give up 2 first round picks to blow it up. They are going all-in for next year to keep Durant (figuring a championship--and the prospect of going back-to-back--would do so). But it's probably all-or-nothing.

[XUFan09]

I can't really blame them. This is going to be their best chance in a long time if KD leaves, which is significantly more likely if they don't win next year.