Season Officially Underway

[xsteve1]

MSU refuses to foul up 3. Just stupid coaching from Izzo.

[Xavgrad08]

OSU had no big wins in it's non conference schedule. They better hope they can take care of business in the Big 10.

[BMoreX]

Dez with a killer three to send the game into OT

[X-band '01]

Ohio State's RPI right now is 93. Beaknose has always scheduled weak, but this year takes the cake. It's going to come back to bite him in his Toucan ass.

What's ironic is that Ohio State's strength of schedule during the Andy Geiger regime was higher than the Gene Smith era. And Gene Smith was the Selection Committee chairman back in 2012 (before Mike Bobinski).

[Masterofreality]

This SMU/ Borecats game is fuggin' ugly. 22-19 at the half.

[muskienick]

And Justin Martin might as well be a team manager for the amount of minutes he gets and any other impact he is having on the Mustangs. He's averaging 4 ppg in 8.5 mpg through today's game. OUCH!!!

[GoMuskies]

Murray State won their 10th straight game tonight to get to 12-4. They're 2-0 in the OVC, and I'd be surprised if they finish worse than 14-2. That would give Xavier a win over a 24-6 team. Great scheduling.

Also, Mizzou pulled a DePaul tonight and beat previously 11-2 LSU. They're currently tied with Kentucky atop the SEC standings.

[Masterofreality]

And Justin Martin might as well be a team manager for the amount of minutes he gets and any other impact he is having on the Mustangs. He's averaging 4 ppg in 8.5 mpg through today's game. OUCH!!!

Addition by subtraction.

[Masterofreality]

Gotta say something about my other daughter's school- Your Loyola Chicago Ramblers- now in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Won a close one at Evansville to go to 12-3 and 2-1 in the Valley. Porter Moser is recruiting like a mother and almost grabbed Sean O'Mara away from Xavier. They have a soph, Milton Doyle who can score like Alfrederick Hughes.

I'd like to see Loyola appear on our schedule at Cintas next year.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Gotta say something about my other daughter's school- Your Loyola Chicago Ramblers- now in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Won a close one at Evansville to go to 12-3 and 2-1 in the Valley. Porter Moser is recruiting like a mother and almost grabbed Sean O'Mara away from Xavier. They have a soph, Milton Doyle who can score like Alfrederick Hughes.

I'd like to see Loyola appear on our schedule at Cintas next year.

I remember him being an assistant under Majerus at SLU. Heard good things about him.

[GoMuskies]

The Ramblers host the Shockers on Sunday. Huge game for them.

[bleedXblue]

Addition by subtraction.

He was hurt for 3-4 games, but yes......glad he moved on.

[Xville]

Murray State won their 10th straight game tonight to get to 12-4. They're 2-0 in the OVC, and I'd be surprised if they finish worse than 14-2. That would give Xavier a win over a 24-6 team. Great scheduling.

Also, Mizzou pulled a DePaul tonight and beat previously 11-2 LSU. They're currently tied with Kentucky atop the SEC standings.

Mizzou is going to be a very good team by the end of the year, and I believe a tournament team next year. Unlike Oliver Purnell, Kim Anderson can coach his behind off. Not sure if you watched the game at all last night or not, but that team looks drastically different than the team we played just a few weeks ago. I will say I am a little biased as I am also a Mizzou fan, but I am liking what I am seeing from that team....tons of young talent.

[xubrew]

Murray State won their 10th straight game tonight to get to 12-4. They're 2-0 in the OVC, and I'd be surprised if they finish worse than 14-2. That would give Xavier a win over a 24-6 team. Great scheduling.

Also, Mizzou pulled a DePaul tonight and beat previously 11-2 LSU. They're currently tied with Kentucky atop the SEC standings.

Murray State might win out, and if they do they'll still be one of the most underachieving four loss teams in history. I really like the Racers, but they fail to play up to their ceiling more than any other program I can think of.


Gotta say something about my other daughter's school- Your Loyola Chicago Ramblers- now in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Won a close one at Evansville to go to 12-3 and 2-1 in the Valley. Porter Moser is recruiting like a mother and almost grabbed Sean O'Mara away from Xavier. They have a soph, Milton Doyle who can score like Alfrederick Hughes.

I'd like to see Loyola appear on our schedule at Cintas next year.

Nice shoutout MOR!! Allow me to echo it....

That was a great game, and a tough road win for Loyola. I've seen them play a couple of times, and they are pretty good. So is Evansville. If they win on Sunday you'd have to think they'd be on track to make the NCAA Tournament.

[MADXSTER]

Kentucky down by 1 with 27 secs left, Texas A&M with the ball

[MADXSTER]

UK and A&M going into 2OT

[xu82]

UK and A&M going into 2OT

channel?

[MADXSTER]

Cbs

[MADXSTER]

27 sec left in 2OT

[xu82]

Cbs

Thx, shows as storm stories here due to OT

[Xville]

Bama won again this time at tennessee

[xu82]

Bama won again this time at tennessee

Roll Tide!

(That's a first for me.)

[Masterofreality]

Right now on ESPNU..

At Halftime, your Loyola Chicago Ramblers are leading Wichita State 28-23.

Noise on the North Shore.

[X-band '01]

Alas, Wichita's reign of terror in the Valley continues.

Elsewhere, NC State knocks Duke from the ranks of the unbeaten in Raleigh today.

[mohr5150]

Fire Coach K and fire Coach Ryan for losing to Rutgers. I mean, UC beat NCState. What a bunch of underachieving coaches.

[xsteve1]

Fire Coach K and fire Coach Ryan for losing to Rutgers. I mean, UC beat NCState. What a bunch of underachieving coaches.

I doubt Ryan and K are 8-18 over their last 26 road games. Obviously road losses (and bad road losses happen to all teams) happen but the problem here at X is the same things continue to happen over and over again. Until X can get some road wins the critics will be out in full force. I just hope X competes and shows toughness on Wednesday. Is that too much to ask?

[Masterofreality]

The Desert Raccoon and his hand picked elites go down to Oregon State.

Road games in conference are, errr, difficult.

[Masterofreality]

By the way,

Everyone does know that Oregon State was 130 in the RPI, right? No way that loss should have happened, right experts?

Oh, and Oh-ho-ho State coached by legendary Beaknose is 55 in the RPI- over 15 spots lower than Xavier right now.

Fire Toucan!!! He barely made an appearance in the Tournament last year, only played one game, and, horror of all horrors LOST TO UDUMP!!!!. His program is obviously falling down the rathole. Time for a change!!!!!

[X-band '01]

Who knows - maybe Oregon State fans will also be complaining about their inability to win road games. At least they have reason to gripe - they haven't sniffed the NCAA Tournament since Gary Payton Sr. was their big man on campus. Now Gary Payton Jr. is trying to lead the Beavers back to the promised land.

[Xville]

By the way,

Everyone does know that Oregon State was 130 in the RPI, right? No way that loss should have happened, right experts?

Oh, and Oh-ho-ho State coached by legendary Beaknose is 55 in the RPI- over 15 spots lower than Xavier right now.

Fire Toucan!!! He barely made an appearance in the Tournament last year, only played one game, and, horror of all horrors LOST TO UDUMP!!!!. His program is obviously falling down the rathole. Time for a change!!!!!

Ok fine I'll bite. I don't think anyone would have a problem with a road loss here and there..heck even half of the time would be acceptable. Sure there would be some angst and people would lash out right after the game. However, most people would realize that these things happen. The issue that I, and some others have right now is the almost habitual losing away from Cintas that has happened over the past year and a half...5-18. I'm not naive enough to believe that this can't be turned around, it could turn around on Wednesday, but right now our road record is a problem.

[LadyMuskie]

By the way,

Everyone does know that Oregon State was 130 in the RPI, right? No way that loss should have happened, right experts?

Oh, and Oh-ho-ho State coached by legendary Beaknose is 55 in the RPI- over 15 spots lower than Xavier right now.

Fire Toucan!!! He barely made an appearance in the Tournament last year, only played one game, and, horror of all horrors LOST TO UDUMP!!!!. His program is obviously falling down the rathole. Time for a change!!!!!
I know of OSU fans who are grumbling that Matta has worn out his welcome. Let's not be naive and pretend our fan base is the only one where people question an under-achieving team. It's just silly.

[GoMuskies]

I know of OSU fans who are grumbling that Matta has worn out his welcome.

Well, if Matta gets canned at Ohio State, that would answer vee's question of what better option is out there if Xavier decided to make a change.

[Xville]

we have 8 away games left before the big east tourney...we have to find a way to win 3 of them somehow, some way. We cant count on going undefeated at home, though of course it could happen..even then though we would probably need to win 2 of them. I don't see us making the tourney with anything less than 20 wins, even with how tough this league is.

[LadyMuskie]

Well, if Matta gets canned at Ohio State, that would answer vee's question of what better option is out there if Xavier decided to make a change.

As the heads of Xavier fans everywhere explode.

[LadyMuskie]

we have 8 away games left before the big east tourney...we have to find a way to win 3 of them somehow, some way. We cant count on going undefeated at home, though of course it could happen..even then though we would probably need to win 2 of them. I don't see us making the tourney with anything less than 20 wins, even with how tough this league is.

We play lIke a completely different team at home. I could see us going undefeated at home and also just winning one on the road before the season ends. It's like the team gets Space Jammed when traveling.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I know of OSU fans who are grumbling that Matta has worn out his welcome. Let's not be naive and pretend our fan base is the only one where people question an under-achieving team. It's just silly.

I've heard some sports talk people in Columbus predict that Matta has to retire due to his health concerns, he is in pain on a daily basis and they say you can see it on his face during games.

They also then debated what an OSU bball program without Matta would look like and they were very fearful that without Matta OSU basketball would fade into obscurity some.

[GoMuskies]

Gonzaga is up to #3 in the AP Poll this week. They really are fantastic this year, but I just wish they had finished the job in Tucson. It will be interesting to see how they manage to spit the bit this time in March.

[xubrew]

I personally thought Gonzaga was worthy of the #1 seed of a few years back, even though they lost in the round of 32 and everyone said it was proof they didn't deserve it. The team that beat them made the Final Four and came closer to beating Louisville than anyone else.

[GoMuskies]

Kentucky just got by Mizzou, 86-37.

Interesting sidenote: Jakeenan Gant had by far his best game of the season against Xavier with 13 points in 15 minutes. He hasn't scored more than 7 points in any other game this year.

[GoMuskies]

Eastern Kentucky won at Miami by 28, and Miami won at Duke by 16, so just think how bad Eastern Kentucky would rough up Duke in Durham.

[LA Muskie]

Kentucky just got by Mizzou, 86-37.

Interesting sidenote: Jakeenan Gant had by far his best game of the season against Xavier with 13 points in 15 minutes. He hasn't scored more than 7 points in any other game this year.
Don't we seem to fairly routinely make a player's season (or career)?

[paulxu]

The more things change...the more they remain the same.

http://espn.go.com/dallas/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/12180575/college-sports-informs-smu-mustangs-basketball-program-allegations-academic-improprieties

[Masterofreality]

The hero up north, whose team just got ranked after playing an A10 rogues gallery, got schooled at Davidson last night by 17. Their best win during their run was a win at Olean Welding Academy.

Raccoon Jr. Can thank his lucky stars that Beaknose decides to keep his young players rooted to Mr. Pine. Otherwise Sibert would have never been available to transfer. Without that guy, the Cryers have very little.

I think Toucan could probably use that guy now.

[xubrew]

Watching Cincinnati is like pouring acid in your eyes. They are a horrible team to watch. They're sweating out Houston at home tonight.

[X-band '01]

I don't know who Huston Tillotson is, but they're beating Baylor by 4 in the 1st half. NOT an exhibition.

[xubrew]

So, in last nights game between UC Davis and Hawai'i, I guess there was a free mini basketball giveaway. With less than two seconds to go at the end of, Davis was shooting freethrows down by 14, and someone sitting behind the basket at the other end of the court (ie, not the one where the shooter was), threw a ball onto the court. A technical foul was called on Hawai'i, which is the rule, but because it had no impact on the outcome of the game the crowd wanted to make sure everyone knew how stupid they thought it was.

Hawai'i still won the game. Right as the horn sounded, the court was showered with tiny little basketballs. The players did not shake hands due to the barrage of basketballs.

I know southern Ohio has a huge fixation on teams and coaches either shaking hands or not shaking hands. I was just wondering how everyone up there was reacting to this.

[MADXSTER]

So, in last nights game between UC Davis and Hawai'i, I guess there was a free mini basketball giveaway. With less than two seconds to go at the end of, Davis was shooting freethrows down by 14, and someone sitting behind the basket at the other end of the court (ie, not the one where the shooter was), threw a ball onto the court. A technical foul was called on Hawai'i, which is the rule, but because it had no impact on the outcome of the game the crowd wanted to make sure everyone knew how stupid they thought it was.

Hawai'i still won the game. Right as the horn sounded, the court was showered with tiny little basketballs. The players did not shake hands due to the barrage of basketballs.

I know southern Ohio has a huge fixation on teams and coaches either shaking hands or not shaking hands. I was just wondering how everyone up there was reacting to this.

Total Mayhem! Cars on fire, looting, rioting, people shooting cops, cops shooting cops, Global warming stopped, it's just out of control.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Pretty crazy how 3 traditional powerhouses are all pretty terrible this year and most likely on the outside of the tournament.

Michigan, Michigan St, and Florida are all having bad years. Florida especially, they have 1 top 100 win, against Yale.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Syracuse is having kind of a rough year too.

[D-West & PO-Z]

If Mich St doesnt make the tournament it will be the first time since '97.

[LA Muskie]

I don't know about Izzo, but I bet the 'Cuse boards are full of people demanding Boeheim's head. He's an ass. No one likes him. People only put up with him because he wins. Usually. Problem for those fans is that there's no way in hell he's leaving on a low note. He's way too competitive for that.

[GoMuskies]

Pretty crazy how 3 traditional powerhouses are all pretty terrible this year and most likely on the outside of the tournament.

Michigan, Michigan St, and Florida are all having bad years. Florida especially, they have 1 top 100 win, against Yale.

Michigan is not really a traditional powerhouse. They've had some excellent years, but they've had far too many mediocre to bad years to be considered a basketball power.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Michigan is not really a traditional powerhouse. They've had some excellent years, but they've had far too many mediocre to bad years to be considered a basketball power.

Yeah thats true. Just a lot of recent success.

[GoMuskies]

Here's another reminder of how wonderful it is to be in the Big East instead of some of the other conferences out there: I was reading the ESPN recap of the Northern Iowa game tonight, and it included this little nugget: when #12 Wichita State travels to #18 UNI on Saturday, it will be the first matchup of ranked Valley teams since January 16, 1982. Just imagine being in a conference that goes 32 years between matchups of ranked teams. Not good.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Here's another reminder of how wonderful it is to be in the Big East instead of some of the other conferences out there: I was reading the ESPN recap of the Northern Iowa game tonight, and it included this little nugget: when #12 Wichita State travels to #18 UNI on Saturday, it will be the first matchup of ranked Valley teams since January 16, 1982. Just imagine being in a conference that goes 32 years between matchups of ranked teams. Not good.

Yikes, not good at all. Loving the Big East thats for sure.

[waggy]

Georgia Tech won at Miami by 20.

Somebody's throwing games.

[D-West & PO-Z]

When are they finally going to take Bob Knight off the air? He is terrible and the worst part about it is the biggest reason he is so bad is because his mental capabilities are clearly diminishing. Someone close to him needs to just make the decision for him. Yikes.

[vee4xu]

So, is there any chance at any level that Missouri somehow, some way beats UK tonight in Columbia? Talk about helping Xavier's RPI. Wow, that would be huge.

[Masterofreality]

udump goes down on the cold plain in Amherst, MA.

The A10 is really not very good. I would say the Cryers have had an advantageous schedule so far, but their whole league is advantageous. They get to play that awesome F-m program next.

[vee4xu]

udump goes down on the cold plain in Amherst, MA.

The A10 is really not very good. I would say the Cryers have had an advantageous schedule so far, but their whole league is advantageous. They get to play that awesome F-m program next.

Not a dry eye in the house. :lol:

[xudash]

udump goes down on the cold plain in Amherst, MA.

The A10 is really not very good. I would say the Cryers have had an advantageous schedule so far, but their whole league is advantageous. They get to play that awesome F-m program next.

I channel surfed my way into that game with about 10 minutes to go. I literally watched something like five straight turnovers at each end of the floor.

Bad basketball.

[xsteve1]

Ohio St. pummels Maryland. Maryland very overrated.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Bob Knight just compared a technical foul for taunting in basketball to pass interference in football. HA!!

[D-West & PO-Z]

He. Is. UNBEARABLE!

[Masterofreality]

Bob Knight just compared a technical foul for taunting in basketball to pass interference in football. HA!!

I think we are looking at the announcing equivalent of Willie Mays stumbling around the outfield at the end of his career. Just sad that some don't know when to quit.

I know. That's an old man's comparison, but very valid, youngsters. Trust me.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I think we are looking at the announcing equivalent of Willie Mays stumbling around the outfield at the end of his career. Just sad that some don't know when to quit.

I know. That's an old man's comparison, but very valid, youngsters. Trust me.

Ha, I'll take your word for it.

This is at least, at least, the 3rd season where Bob Knight has been really bad. Constantly confused, making analogies that dont really make sense, getting confused between the shot and game clocks, pretty much anything simple seems confusing to him.

[xu82]

Ha, I'll take your word for it.

This is at least, at least, the 3rd season where Bob Knight has been really bad. Constantly confused, making analogies that dont really make sense, getting confused between the shot and game clocks, pretty much anything simple seems confusing to him.

There was a time when he was confused about what side of the court the chair belonged, and made impromptu adjustments. He's been on the crazy path for decades, but a crazy old man is just sad.

[PMI]

When are they finally going to take Bob Knight off the air? He is terrible and the worst part about it is the biggest reason he is so bad is because his mental capabilities are clearly diminishing. Someone close to him needs to just make the decision for him. Yikes.

Yea, it's gotten kind of sad. He clearly should be spending his time fishing and enjoying his family at this point. It would be cool if they had him call in every once in awhile to keep him busy, but he is not all there enough to be a legitimate analyst at this point.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Pretty detailed article about some of Bob Knights mess ups and antics.

http://www.lostlettermen.com/article/espn-bob-knight

[D-West & PO-Z]

Here is the clip of that Kentucky game where he was confused about shot clock.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6DOOETw9zCA#aid=P98h4nDYun4

[D-West & PO-Z]

Ha and I never saw this, him falling asleep on the gameday set.

http://thebiglead.com/2012/03/31/bobby-knight-might-have-fallen-asleep-on-set-during-espns-college-gameday/

[Masterofreality]

Honestly, doesn't the fact that ESPN is hanging on to washed up relics like Knight, Vitale and Diggler Phlops tell you something? Their time is passing.

Fox has much better announcing crews and they've poached guys like Tim Brando and others.

Not saying that Fox will pass the 4 letter network anytime soon but the gap will close when it comes to CBB viewership.

[GoMuskies]

Murray State survived in OT to beat Eastern Kentucky last night for their 16th straight win. Stephen F. Austin is still rolling through the Southland, too, to the tune of 16 straight wins. So after starting 2-4 and 1-3, respectively (including losses to Xavier), the Racers and Lumberjacks are a combined 32-0. Hello RPI boost!

[PMI]

Murray State survived in OT to beat Eastern Kentucky last night for their 16th straight win. Stephen F. Austin is still rolling through the Southland, too, to the tune of 16 straight wins. So after starting 2-4 and 1-3, respectively (including losses to Xavier), the Racers and Lumberjacks are a combined 32-0. Hello RPI boost!

Those are the absolutely perfect kinds of games to schedule early in the year at home. Very high chance of winning and very, very high chance of them turning into good looking wins.

[Masterofreality]

Murray State survived in OT to beat Eastern Kentucky last night for their 16th straight win. Stephen F. Austin is still rolling through the Southland, too, to the tune of 16 straight wins. So after starting 2-4 and 1-3, respectively (including losses to Xavier), the Racers and Lumberjacks are a combined 32-0. Hello RPI boost!

Yep. That's a big reason why our OOC SOS is 55. As I have said earlier. If we don't make the Dance, it won't be because of our Out of Conference schedule that so many were maligning early in the year. Mario knows what he's doing...and even more so with a bunch of freshmen early.

[JTG]

Honestly, doesn't the fact that ESPN is hanging on to washed up relics like Knight, Vitale and Diggler Phlops tell you something? Their time is passing.

Fox has much better announcing crews and they've poached guys like Tim Brando and others.

Not saying that Fox will pass the 4 letter network anytime soon but the gap will close when it comes to CBB viewership.
Phelps retired, and don't kid yourself about ESPN. I checked into my hotel Tues night ready to watch X/Gtown. Well, guess what , out of 80 channels, they had 3 ESPNs and no Fox 1.

[paulxu]

Well, I hope you checked right out of that bad boy. Or got a deep discount on the room rate.

[bigdiggins]

Phelps retired, and don't kid yourself about ESPN. I checked into my hotel Tues night ready to watch X/Gtown. Well, guess what , out of 80 channels, they had 3 ESPNs and no Fox 1.

I have watched Fox 1 from the Courtyard in Nashville and Phoenix in the last 2 weeks. Change up your hotel chain.

[Masterofreality]

I have watched Fox 1 from the Courtyard in Nashville and Phoenix in the last 2 weeks. Change up your hotel chain.

Have never NOT had FS1 in any hotel that I've stayed at. Not much on NBCSN or on CBSSN, though.

[xubrew]

All the teams like SFA, Murray State, LA Tech and others (but those in particular) who claim they can't get good teams to play them need to start scheduling each other. If so many good teams from weaker leagues have trouble getting other good teams to play them, then the remedy for that problem is blatantly obvious, IMHO.

[X-band '01]

Murray State survived in OT to beat Eastern Kentucky last night for their 16th straight win. Stephen F. Austin is still rolling through the Southland, too, to the tune of 16 straight wins. So after starting 2-4 and 1-3, respectively (including losses to Xavier), the Racers and Lumberjacks are a combined 32-0. Hello RPI boost!

Long Beach State is also a co-leader in the Big West. They are now playing what MOR calls the "pastry cart" of their schedule.


All the teams like SFA, Murray State, LA Tech and others (but those in particular) who claim they can't get good teams to play them need to start scheduling each other. If so many good teams from weaker leagues have trouble getting other good teams to play them, then the remedy for that problem is blatantly obvious, IMHO.

Northern Iowa, as you know, did go to SFA as part of the Tip-Off Marathon and won in OT. It's better playing then as opposed to the now-defunct BracketBusters event.

[paulxu]

Unabashed Pearl/Auburn love on some Fox channel in the bar.

[xu82]

Unabashed Pearl/Auburn love on some Fox channel in the bar.

I just wish they'd been one less double OT game good this year. (And I didn't have to drive home with an Auburn fan!)

[xubrew]

Long Beach is an interesting case. They're 10-11 against div1 teams, so their record is still below .500. Now, if they continue to win in conference at the clip they have been, their overall winning percentage will be significantly better at the end of the year than it is now.

If you look at someone like, well, just about anyone that's currently in the RPI top 40, it is impossible for their winning percentage to improve significantly between now and the end of the year. It will likely stay the same, and in most cases drop a little bit. For Long Beach to go from what was about .330 to close to .700 if they can run roughshod over the league, it will improve quite a bit. Their RPI has been climbing several spots with each win, which makes sense because their winning percentage improves several points with each win (moreso than any other team).

I think they'll end up with an RPI in the 30s. They have struggled more than I have expected them to in league play, but they're definitely good enough to win the rest of their games. Even if they drop one, their RPI will still be really healthy.

So, with an RPI in the 30s, a regular season championship, an overall OOC SOS of #2, and OOC wins against Xavier and Kansas State.....is that enough to get them into the field regardless of what happens during the conference tournament??

They had San Diego State beat and kind of blew it. Had they held on to win that game I don't even think it's questionable. They'd get in.

[Masterofreality]

Here's what happens when you play in a mediocre conference against bad RPI teams.

udump played F-m today at the cesspool. They won.

Before the game their RPI was 33. They are now 38.

[xubrew]

Here's what happens when you play in a mediocre conference against bad RPI teams.

udump played F-m today at the cesspool. They won.

Before the game their RPI was 33. They are now 38.

What the hell are you talking about??

Fordham isn't mediocre!!! They are full blown suckballs awful!!!

Teams from NYC that are better than Fordham include Saint John's, Columbia, Manhattan, LIU Brooklyn, SFNY and Iona.

[LA Muskie]

What the hell are you talking about??

Fordham isn't mediocre!!! They are full blown suckballs awful!!!

Teams from NYC that are better than Fordham include Saint John's, Columbia, Manhattan, LIU Brooklyn, SFNY and Iona.
In MOR's defense, he said the CONFERENCE (the A10) was mediocre. He certainly didn't compliment Fordham with such an adjective.

[xubrew]

In MOR's defense, he said the CONFERENCE (the A10) was mediocre. He certainly didn't compliment Fordham with such an adjective.

My mistake, and my apologies to MOR.

Saying Fordham is mediocre is like saying the DMV is a fairly decent place to hang out.

[XUFan09]

My mistake, and my apologies to MOR.

Saying Fordham is mediocre is like saying the DMV is a fairly decent place to hang out.
Wait, it isn't? Where else will I pick up chicks?

[D-West & PO-Z]

Bad news for VCU, gotta feel bad for the kid.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/12260825/briante-weber-vcu-rams-suffers-torn-acl-mcl-meniscus

12 steals shy of the NCAA record.

[XUFan09]

Bad news for VCU, gotta feel bad for the kid.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/12260825/briante-weber-vcu-rams-suffers-torn-acl-mcl-meniscus

12 steals shy of the NCAA record.
Living here in Richmond and going to VCU next season, I'm a mild fan of the team. It sucks for the team, but I'm more upset for the player chasing history.

[LA Muskie]

Living here in Richmond and going to VCU next season, I'm a mild fan of the team. It sucks for the team, but I'm more upset for the player chasing history.

Sucks for both. But mostly the kid. Hope he makes a full recovery.

[paulxu]

This was humorous. Palm's latest bracket has 7 BE teams.
Locally, he has Dayton playing UC with the winner getting Kentucky.
XU playing OSU with the winner getting Wisconsin.
And all of those games being played in Louisville.

http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/bracketology

[GoMuskies]

Good luck getting tickets for that.

[X Factor]

This was humorous. Palm's latest bracket has 7 BE teams.
Locally, he has Dayton playing UC with the winner getting Kentucky.
XU playing OSU with the winner getting Wisconsin.
And all of those games being played in Louisville.

http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/bracketology

He's got Seton Hall a 7 seed. They have a better record than X, but we have a higher RPI, our SOS is 11 to SHU's 60, and X has higher KenPom ranking.

[xsteve1]

He's got Seton Hall a 7 seed. They have a better record than X, but we have a higher RPI, our SOS is 11 to SHU's 60, and X has higher KenPom ranking.

Probably basing his decision on Whitehead being back.

[paulxu]

Good luck getting tickets for that.

I think MOR use to live in Louisville. I'm sure he's got some connections.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Wouldnt mind playing OSU, wouldnt want to have to have Stain guard Kaminsky (sp?) for Wisconsin though if we met them in the second rd.

[usfldan]

This was humorous. Palm's latest bracket has 7 BE teams.
Locally, he has Dayton playing UC with the winner getting Kentucky.
XU playing OSU with the winner getting Wisconsin.
And all of those games being played in Louisville.

http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/bracketology

Did they change the rule that prevented teams from the same conference from being able to meet before the Elite 8? If not, without there being 9 Big Ten teams making it, OSU and Wisconsin couldn't be paired together like that.

[Masterofreality]

I think MOR use to live in Louisville. I'm sure he's got some connections.

Was born and spent my grade school days there, plus will be back there Thursday-Friday for a wedding. Still have lots of family there.

Oh, yeah. I got plenty of connections. I'll trade our family box at Churchill Downs for tix if necessary.

[X-band '01]

Did they change the rule that prevented teams from the same conference from being able to meet before the Elite 8? If not, without there being 9 Big Ten teams making it, OSU and Wisconsin couldn't be paired together like that.

Since the Big East had 11 teams a few years ago, the rules are now as follows:

Teams that play each other 3 times cannot face each other until the Elite 8.
Teams that play each other 2 times can face off as early as the Sweet 16.
Teams that play each other once (including non-con rematches) can play each other as early as the round of 32.

[GoMuskies]

VCU lost to LaSuck. At home.

That's no good.

[Masterofreality]

VCU lost to LaSuck. At home.

That's no good.

HaHahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha.......HAvoc!!!

Overrated punks.

[XUFan09]

HaHahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha.......HAvoc!!!

Overrated punks.

Yeah, VCU is missing senior stars Treveon Graham and Briante Weber due to injuries in the last two and three games, respectively. Imagine this Xavier squad without Matt Stainbrook and Dee Davis, but probably even worse.

[X-band '01]

Briante Weber is already out for the year with a torn ACL; Treveon Graham has had a sore ankle and sat out losses against the Bonnies and Explorers.

This now leaves a 4-way tie at the top of the A-10 with VCU, Dayton, URI and UMass. That league is now a mess at the top.

[xu82]

Briante Weber is already out for the year with a torn ACL; Treveon Graham has had a sore ankle and sat out losses against the Bonnies and Explorers.

This now leaves a 4-way tie at the top of the A-10 with VCU, Dayton, URI and UMass. That league is now a mess at the top.

Or, as A10 supporters will call it, blessed with an abundance of strength.

[Masterofreality]

This now leaves a 4-way tie at the top of the A-10 with VCU, Dayton, URI and UMass. That league is now a mess at the top.

None of which beat anybody in the Non Conference.

Unless you think that Tennessee, Mississippi and LSU are "some bodies".

[bleedXblue]

Didn't we spend 15 years defending the A-10? It isn't really all that different now than it was then? Mindboggling.

[X-Fan]

Didn't we spend 15 years defending the A-10? It isn't really all that different now than it was then? Mindboggling.
In our defense, we defended the A10 because it was legit. One of the main reasons it was legit is because Xavier was a member.

I'll add, some programs have either fallen off or left, namely: St. Joes, Temple (left & fallen off), STL (Jim Crews effect going on), GW, and you could possibly throw a few others in there.

I still think the A10 is a good league, just not as good as our current league.

[Masterofreality]

Didn't we spend 15 years defending the A-10? It isn't really all that different now than it was then? Mindboggling.


In our defense, we defended the A10 because it was legit. One of the main reasons it was legit is because Xavier was a member.

I'll add, some programs have either fallen off or left, namely: St. Joes, Temple (left & fallen off), STL (Jim Crews effect going on), GW, and you could possibly throw a few others in there.

I still think the A10 is a good league, just not as good as our current league.

The A-10 was good at times and from year to year 3 to 4 teams (Xavier, Temple and a changing cast of 2) were legit. But it is what it is...the 7th to 9th ranked league. When VDump is consistently one of your better schools, you have a problem. Fordham still exists, Dookcane is still a joke, Bona is still in Olean and George Mason was a weak addition.

This BE League is legit ALL the time.

[LadyMuskie]

Didn't we spend 15 years defending the A-10? It isn't really all that different now than it was then? Mindboggling.

The A10 is gross, now, dontcha know. If it was possible, we'd get one of those memory-zapper thingies from Men in Black so that we could pretend we were never a part of that pitiful excuse for a league.

[xu82]

If it was possible, we'd get one of those memory-zapper thingies from Men in Black so that we could pretend we were never a part of that pitiful excuse for a league.

I think someone used one of those on me after Dana's a few times!

[xubrew]

Didn't we spend 15 years defending the A-10? It isn't really all that different now than it was then? Mindboggling.

Five years ago, how funny would it be to look into the future and see MOR praising the Big East and trashing the A10?? You'd have thought it was bizarre world.

When we were in the Atlantic Ten, it was a two to three bid league most years. It got as few as one team some years, and as many as four other years.

Now that we are gone, the Atlantic Ten appears to be a two to three bid league most years. It may get as few as one team some years, and as many as four or five (and in an anomaly of a year like last year, six) a few years.

They had one team that was in the rankings a lot of the time in Xavier. Now, they have one team that's in the rankings a lot of the time in VCU. Before the injuries, VCU was pretty legit.

So, the overall strength of the league is still pretty much the same. Our perception of it has changed, especially since we are in a better league now, but it's still about as good as it was when we were in it.

[Masterofreality]

"If you're with us, you're with us. If you ain't with us, you're against us."

And what annoyed me the most about the former Big East, other than the Borecats who were barely a part of it, was not so much the league and schools, it was the incessant ESPN honking of how incredible it was and that 12 teams deserved bids every year.

[GoMuskies]

Another update on the darlings of Xavier's non-conference schedule: SFA and Murray State are now a combined 39-0 in their last 39 games. They are a combined 42-7 on the season, boosting Xavier's RPI with 50% of their .8571 combined winning percentage.

[Masterofreality]

Another update on the darlings of Xavier's non-conference schedule: SFA and Murray State are now a combined 39-0 in their last 39 games. They are a combined 42-7 on the season, boosting Xavier's RPI with 50% of their .8571 combined winning percentage.

That's all good, but I wonder what the Committee thinks when they look at their. "Pink Sheets" behind the surface numbers- especially since we played both those games at home?

[XUFan09]

That's all good, but I wonder what the Committee thinks when they look at their. "Pink Sheets" behind the surface numbers- especially since we played both those games at home?
SFA is currently 37th in Kenpom (projected RPI 45th) and Murray State is currently 65th (projected RPI the same). Playing those teams at home, along with #48 Alabama (projected RPI drop to 75th), will diminish the value of the win, but they'll still be seen as good to solid teams.

[Xville]

At this point, it really just comes down to the next 6 games save the big east tourney...none of them are going to be easy and they are going to determine whether or not we make the dance....4-2 and we are most likely in, less than that and we are going to be biting our fingernails on selection sunday save a big run in the conference tourney.

[bleedXblue]

20 wins and we're in. Simple.

[XUFan09]

20 wins and we're in. Simple.
Yup.

Edit: Also, I would bet we're in at 3-3, but I would be nervous on Selection Sunday.

[Masterofreality]

I agree on the 4-2.

I was thinking more of seeding. Would the Committee believe the RPI number or discount it?

[DC Muskie]

By the way, anyone notice that there are ZERO Big East players listed in the top 30 for the Naismith and the top 20 for the Wooden?

Henton is 10th in the nation in scoring for the second ranked conference according to RPI.

Meanwhile, two Gonzaga players listed who are scoing fewer points then Henton and they play in the 700th ranked conference.

I hate playing this disrespect card, but come on. We need as a conference to roll in March.

[Masterofreality]

By the way, anyone notice that there are ZERO Big East players listed in the top 30 for the Naismith and the top 20 for the Wooden?

Henton is 10th in the nation in scoring for the second ranked conference according to RPI.

Meanwhile, two Gonzaga players listed who are scoing fewer points then Henton and they play in the 700th ranked conference.

I hate playing this disrespect card, but come on. We need as a conference to roll in March.

Truth.

Ladonte Henton should be on everyone's Final Five Naismith and Wooden Awards.

We really do need to have a performance like the soccer programs did.

[GoMuskies]

I would gladly make an exception to my no expansion policy for Gonzaga. Imagine the conference this year with Gonzaga in it.

[X-Fan]

By the way, anyone notice that there are ZERO Big East players listed in the top 30 for the Naismith and the top 20 for the Wooden?

Henton is 10th in the nation in scoring for the second ranked conference according to RPI.

Meanwhile, two Gonzaga players listed who are scoing fewer points then Henton and they play in the 700th ranked conference.

I hate playing this disrespect card, but come on. We need as a conference to roll in March.


Truth.

Ladonte Henton should be on everyone's Final Five Naismith and Wooden Awards.

We really do need to have a performance like the soccer programs did.
And as good as Henton is, I think Dunn is even better.

[GoMuskies]

Another update on the darlings of Xavier's non-conference schedule: SFA and Murray State are now a combined 39-0 in their last 39 games. They are a combined 42-7 on the season, boosting Xavier's RPI with 50% of their .8571 combined winning percentage.

SFA blew the streak with a loss at Corpus Christi yesterday. SFA is actually a half game behind Sam Houston in the Southland for the time being.

Murray State needed OT to win at SEMO yesterday, but that win clinched the OVC with three games to play. So Murray State is now an NIT lock if they happen to lose in the OVC Tournament.

[xubrew]

Central Connecticut State has been mathematically eliminated from being able to make the Northeast Conference Tournament. They are the first team that is not on a postseason ban to be eliminated from the postseason. CCSU was actually the preseason favorites to win the conference, but their best player was kicked off the team (rightfully so) for beating up his girlfriend, and they have not been able to win without him.

I know no one cares, but I only point it out to say that we are (sort of) to the win and advance, lose and you're done portion of the season. There are now just 332 teams who can still make the NCAA Tournament, and in theory win the national championship.

[GoMuskies]

Dartmouth and Brown (despite the fact they were good enough to win decisively at PC) are closing in on elimination as well.

[xubrew]

Western Carolina v Cleveland State has been cancelled tonight due to the weather, and will not be made up.

This raises the somewhat curious question, WTF were they doing playing each other at this point in the season??

Both the Horizon and SoCon Tournaments are over relatively early. It's actually within the rules for them to make it up after the conference tournaments. It may be kind of cool if one or both of them managed to win the automatic bid, and then had an extra tune up prior to the NCAAs. Either way, both will likely be in the CIT if they don't win the conference tourneys (which I don't think either of them will). Why not just make the game up??

[Xavier]

might not be worth it money wise for either team.

[X-band '01]

Western Carolina v Cleveland State has been cancelled tonight due to the weather, and will not be made up.

This raises the somewhat curious question, WTF were they doing playing each other at this point in the season??

Both the Horizon and SoCon Tournaments are over relatively early. It's actually within the rules for them to make it up after the conference tournaments. It may be kind of cool if one or both of them managed to win the automatic bid, and then had an extra tune up prior to the NCAAs. Either way, both will likely be in the CIT if they don't win the conference tourneys (which I don't think either of them will). Why not just make the game up??

Maybe it was just unbalanced scheduling where it worked out for both teams.

That's also why NJIT played back-to-back days a couple of weeks ago. There just isn't much room for non-con games once conference play begins.

[xubrew]

Maybe it was just unbalanced scheduling where it worked out for both teams.

That's also why NJIT played back-to-back days a couple of weeks ago. There just isn't much room for non-con games once conference play begins.

NJIT only scheduled 26 games. Since there is no conference tournament, they're actually allowed to play 30. Both of them could add NJIT at home if they wanted to. It would give both teams a certain call (at least for the regular season. I do think both will make the CIT), and it helps NJIT out with two more games.

In baseball, adding games and canceling games are par for the course.

[Masterofreality]

Pretty good NC/Duke game last night.

And talk about a choke job. NC was up 9 with less than 2 minutes to go....gets tied, goes to OT and loses.

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRCCCCCHHHHHH H!!!!!!

[D-West & PO-Z]

UD about to go down @Duquesne on NBC sports.

[Masterofreality]

UD about to go down @Duquesne on NBC sports.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!! HA!

vdump is now 41 in RPI...and dropping. They still have to go to VCU.

Thank Gawd we are out of that trash league.

[LadyMuskie]

It's one thing for the players to think the shot clock has really gone down (I guess) thanks to the VCU student section, but the refs falling for it as well? The guy who called the violation should be run out of refereeing forever. Good God, man. Way to prove you're barely aware of your surroundings and what's going on in the game.

http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/103322/watch-vcu-student-sections-fake-shot-clock-countdown-throws-off-umass-refs

[Masterofreality]

It's one thing for the players to think the shot clock has really gone down (I guess) thanks to the VCU student section, but the refs falling for it as well? The guy who called the violation should be run out of refereeing forever. Good God, man. Way to prove you're barely aware of your surroundings and what's going on in the game.

http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/103322/watch-vcu-student-sections-fake-shot-clock-countdown-throws-off-umass-refs

Well, that would be typical of the Atlantic 10 referees. #TrashLeague

[D-West & PO-Z]

sUCks down by 3 at the half @Houston. Losing that could be a back breaker for them.

[xu82]

sUCks down by 3 at the half @Houston. Losing that could be a back breaker for them.

As much as it pains me.... I hope they finish strong. But ONLY because that helps us!

[D-West & PO-Z]

As much as it pains me.... I hope they finish strong. But ONLY because that helps us!

Nah, F-em, hope they lose out and miss the tourney!

[xu82]

Nah, F-em, hope they lose out and miss the tourney!

While I understand the sentiment, my dream has them winning out to up our seed on the way to our Final Four run. UC loses by 86 in the first round to some directional school. Make the embarrassment public!

[Masterofreality]

The Borecats avoided the vdump effect last night at Houston.

Cougars are absolutely terrible. 263 RPI at game time, and they were leading at half, but the Clifton Cretins came back as opposed to the Cryers who went down in spectacular fashion to the Dookcane Pukes- RPI 257 at game time.

Sure is nice playing in a league where every game is more of a positive opportunity rather than a spectre of black hole season destruction..

[paulxu]

Is it any wonder that sometimes the officiating is less than stellar when our "Supervisor of Officials" is John Cahill?

[X-band '01]

The Borecats avoided the vdump effect last night at Houston.

Cougars are absolutely terrible. 263 RPI at game time, and they were leading at half, but the Clifton Cretins came back as opposed to the Cryers who went down in spectacular fashion to the Dookcane Pukes- RPI 257 at game time.

Sure is nice playing in a league where every game is more of a positive opportunity rather than a spectre of black hole season destruction..

How does Houston get up for UConn at home 2 years in a row but not even show up for anyone else?

UConn doesn't even care at this point since they've got the ACK Tournament in Hartford in a couple of weeks.

[xubrew]

The Borecats avoided the vdump effect last night at Houston.

Cougars are absolutely terrible. 263 RPI at game time, and they were leading at half, but the Clifton Cretins came back as opposed to the Cryers who went down in spectacular fashion to the Dookcane Pukes- RPI 257 at game time.

Sure is nice playing in a league where every game is more of a positive opportunity rather than a spectre of black hole season destruction..

Houston's RPI is 263. I think their average attendance is even lower than that.

[xubrew]

Ohio State will not need to book a hotel room for the NCAA Tournament. They can't win away from home and will only be there for amday

[X-band '01]

They still need to be there for practice and press conferences, so there's a 1-night stay somewhere.

[GoMuskies]

Xavier handled three of the teams on Dana O'Neil's mid-majors to watch list. http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/page/fourcorners150223/the-mid-majors-cause-trouble-ncaa-tournament

Bold prediction: this will be the worst year in a long time for Cinderella. I just don't see much from the mid-major crowd outside of the Gonzagas, VCUs, Northern Iowas, and Wichita States, none of whom are Cinderella this year (at least not until the second weekend - Gonzaga wouldn't be a Cinderella story unless they made the Final Four).

[xubrew]

I think Murray State and Iona are better than their NCAA resumes indicate and they would at least make the game in the round of 64 worth watching, but I don't see either one of them going on a big run. To say Murray State is "dangerous to go deep" is overrating them. They're good. They're probably good enough to where they can beat most teams on the bubble, but most bubble teams aren't going deep.

I'm surprised she didn't mention Wofford, who I think has a better team than anyone else on this list (aside from Northern Iowa and Wichita). I know they have an eye gouging loss to The Citadel, but their ceiling is very high. Their best, which they don't always play up to and certainly didn't when they lost to the Citadel, is probably better than anyone else's on this list.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Holy shit, anyone see on SC the replay of Kevin Stallings yelling "I'll fucking kill you" to one of his players tonight??

He went psycho at his player when he heard from an assistant on Tenn that Stalling's player was rubbing the win into another players face.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Also meant to post this but did anyone hear about that FSU player scoring 30 points in the last 4:30 of the game against Miami last night. I need to look for a replay because I didnt see it but wow, unreal.

[xubrew]

Holy shit, anyone see on SC the replay of Kevin Stallings yelling "I'll fucking kill you" to one of his players tonight??

He went psycho at his player when he heard from an assistant on Tenn that Stalling's player was rubbing the win into another players face.

The irony of yelling about how he needs to show class, respect and sportsmanship while completely flipping your shit and talking about how you're going to f***ing kill them is pretty classic.

The best Kevin Stallings moment was when he wouldn't give Joakim Noah the ball. I was watching that live and we must have rewound it twenty times. This is a really poor video of it, which is unfortunate. I didn't see Knight throw the chair, but this is probably one of the funniest things I've ever seen a coach do. The announcers were great to, and you can't really hear them. "HE WOULDN'T GIVE HIM THE BALL!!"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ks6LKwhkZNQ

[X-Fan]

Also meant to post this but did anyone hear about that FSU player scoring 30 points in the last 4:30 of the game against Miami last night. I need to look for a replay because I didnt see it but wow, unreal.

Here's the post on Yahoo Sports "The Dagger": Xavier Rathan-Mayes erupts for 30 points in four-plus minutes (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/ncaab-the-dagger/xavier-rathan-mayes-erupts-for-30-points-in-four-plus-minutes-071437746.html)

Pretty incredible performance. Would have been EPIC if it would have led FSU to a win, but was still very impressive.

Gotta love the kids name!

[RealDeal]

The irony of yelling about how he needs to show class, respect and sportsmanship while completely flipping your shit and talking about how you're going to f***ing kill them is pretty classic.

The best Kevin Stallings moment was when he wouldn't give Joakim Noah the ball. I was watching that live and we must have rewound it twenty times. This is a really poor video of it, which is unfortunate. I didn't see Knight throw the chair, but this is probably one of the funniest things I've ever seen a coach do. The announcers were great to, and you can't really hear them. "HE WOULDN'T GIVE HIM THE BALL!!"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ks6LKwhkZNQ

I remember hearing that Stallings was the reason Brian Thornton left vandy. Thanks for a great player asshole!

[mohr5150]

Wasn't Stallings considered for the X job when the asshat in Columbus was hired?

[Masterofreality]

Wasn't Stallings considered for the X job when the asshat in Columbus was hired?

Yeah, "considered". That's it. Bobo is smarter than that.

Stallings is an Asshat.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Do you guys really think what Stallings did was so bad? The kid was taunting and Stallings say do,it again and I'll kill you. I wish Mack would show some more anger like that. Maybe not the words kill and you but Imreally didn't think this was that newsworthy.

[xu82]

It was the right message, but the wrong delivery.... clearly! Apparently he'd been on this kid for the same thing in the past. Even the kid said he didn't blame the coach. But you can't do that in that way - especially in public and in front of the media.

[mohr5150]

Stallings had every right to be pissed as hell at his player. He just used the wrong words. I don't hold this against him.

[xu82]

Maybe he was just doing a Bobby Knight impression? You know, I DEMAND (and totally lack) discipline!

[D-West & PO-Z]

Do you guys really think what Stallings did was so bad? The kid was taunting and Stallings say do,it again and I'll kill you. I wish Mack would show some more anger like that. Maybe not the words kill and you but Imreally didn't think this was that newsworthy.

Brew noted the irony above.

Also the Tennessee assistant was out of line in my opinion point anything out. Did anyone see what the kid actually did? He came down the court and was clapping and looking in the direction of the player. It was more timid than what Tu was doing in the Crosstown shootout in 2011.

[xubrew]

Colgate can clinch the #1 seed in the Patriot League tournament, which means they'd have home court advantage throughout, despite the fact that they have an overall losing record.

[GoMuskies]

At least Wichita State smashed Northern Iowa today. Okay, that actually doesn't make me feel any better about the Xavier game.

[DC Muskie]

Brew noted the irony above.

Also the Tennessee assistant was out of line in my opinion point anything out. Did anyone see what the kid actually did? He came down the court and was clapping and looking in the direction of the player. It was more timid than what Tu was doing in the Crosstown shootout in 2011.

I pretty much thought the UT coach was a pussy and started this incredibly stupid incident.

[Blue Blobs Bro]

Just a quick question , when was the last time Kentucky had a senior night?

[xsteve1]

I pretty much thought the UT coach was a pussy and started this incredibly stupid incident.

Yes it was pretty much all on that wuss UT video coordinator or whatever he was.

[GoMuskies]

24 straight wins to finish the season for Murray State. They won the OVC by 5 games. It would be a real shame if someone else wins the OVC Tournament and Murray ends up in the NIT.

Also, their Coach Prohm will likely get a new job this offseason, but if by some chance Xavier is in the market I hope he's not our guy. Just not a big fan.

[xu82]

Just a quick question , when was the last time Kentucky had a senior night?

Did you mean senior night, or a senior? Either way, good question... One and the same I guess... Do their walk-ons leave early too?

[xubrew]

24 straight wins to finish the season for Murray State. They won the OVC by 5 games. It would be a real shame if someone else wins the OVC Tournament and Murray ends up in the NIT.

Also, their Coach Prohm will likely get a new job this offseason, but if by some chance Xavier is in the market I hope he's not our guy. Just not a big fan.

They still underachieved, at least so far. They're a top forty team that played almost no top 100 teams other than us.

I also agree about Prohm. Jim Les at UC Davis has got to be the hottest coaching prospect. The guy went to a Sweet Sixteen at Bradley. His biggest problem was getting his players into the school because he was very limited to who he could recruit, yet he still won there, and he's winning big at UC Davis.

[GoMuskies]

The one thing Murray did that impressed me was going 4-0 against the Valley. They obviously didn't play Wichita or UNI, but the Valley is a solid mid-major league, and it's impressive for an OVC team to beat up on the Valley like that.

[xubrew]

Just so everyone is aware, we're for Gonzaga as much as that may suck for some people. We don't need another team from outside the bubble winning a huge game on the road.

[xu82]

Just so everyone is aware, we're for Gonzaga as much as that may suck for some people. We don't need another team from outside the bubble winning a huge game on the road.

As much as that hurts, it's a really good point.

[GoMuskies]

I always cheer for Gonzaga when they're not playing Xavier, so easy enough for me. Of course, I tend to cheer for BYU, too, because quite a few of my coworkers are BYU grads and super nice folks.

[xsteve1]

What Larry Krystkowiak has done at Utah is amazing. They were like 6-25 in 2012.

[xubrew]

What Larry Krystkowiak has done at Utah is amazing. They were like 6-25 in 2012.

Agree completely. He had some good teams when he was at Montana. I remember those teams, but didn't realize he was the coach. The guy is good. He should be considered for national coach of the year.

Of course, many of the coaches who I think should be considered for that never are, and he probably won't be either.

[xubrew]

If BYU wins this game I may consider converting, because it would have to be due to some sort of legitimate miracle.

[xsteve1]

Agree completely. He had some good teams when he was at Montana. I remember those teams, but didn't realize he was the coach. The guy is good. He should be considered for national coach of the year.

Of course, many of the coaches who I think should be considered for that never are, and he probably won't be either.

Holtmann and Krystkowiak would be in my top 3 for national coach of the year. I would probably put Larry Davis and Archie Miller in the top 10 but my opinion means zero though.

[xubrew]

I'd have Archie Miller, Jim Less and Ben Jacobson in the discussion.

My opinion doesn't matter either.

[GoMuskies]

Have to think this moves BYU ahead of us on the Bubble. Xavier doesn't have a win remotely resembling what BYU did tonight.

[xsteve1]

Have to think this moves BYU ahead of us on the Bubble. Xavier doesn't have a win remotely resembling what BYU did tonight.

Bad day for bubble teams. X really needs to beat Creighton or win a game in the BE tourney.

[GoMuskies]

A-Sun, Horizon and Patriot tournaments start Wednesday. March Madness is upon us.

[X-band '01]

Have to think this moves BYU ahead of us on the Bubble. Xavier doesn't have a win remotely resembling what BYU did tonight.

By that logic, Miami would also have to jump ahead of Xavier. While it's a big ace in the hole for BYU, one game does not make an entire season.

[X-band '01]

24 straight wins to finish the season for Murray State. They won the OVC by 5 games. It would be a real shame if someone else wins the OVC Tournament and Murray ends up in the NIT.

Also, their Coach Prohm will likely get a new job this offseason, but if by some chance Xavier is in the market I hope he's not our guy. Just not a big fan.

Could happen - Belmont was also in consideration last year and lost to Eastern Kentucky in the OVC championship in Nashville. Thanks to the ladder format in the OVC, they only need to win 2 games in order to get the auto bid.

[GoMuskies]

By that logic, Miami would also have to jump ahead of Xavier. While it's a big ace in the hole for BYU, one game does not make an entire season.

Yes, but BYU was relatively close anyway, and that was a HUGE win. No other bubble team has a win like that.

[xavierj]

Yes, but BYU was relatively close anyway, and that was a HUGE win. No other bubble team has a win like that.

The loss to San diego and the two losses to Pepperdine are not helping them. Not to mention until last night they had beaten absolutely no one. They have to win the WCC tourney. Their non conference schedule was very weak as well.

[GoMuskies]

Maybe you're right. But if they get to Gonzaga in the WCC Tournament (which means a win over St. Mary's), I'd be shocked if they don't make it.

At the end of the day, it's probably not related to Xavier. Beat Creighton and we're in no matter what others do. Lose, and we're probably out no matter what happens with the other bubblers.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Bad day for bubble teams. X really needs to beat Creighton or win a game in the BE tourney.

Yeah Bosie St and BYU winning hurts.

Miami and NC St losing helps.

[X-band '01]

Pitt losing at Wake Forest definitely helps.

[sgarcia]

You know what would help? Us winning a basketball game so we wouldn't have to talk about what other bubble teams we need to lose. If we can't win at a bad Creighton team with a week off then we don't deserve to make it. By the time the BE tournament starts it will have been 3 months since we've won 3 straight games. Let that sink in. That is unacceptable.

[xubrew]

....and Murray State has cracked the rankings. #24 in the coaches, and #25 in the AP.

Granted, if they fall in the OVC Tournament, they'll fall out of the rankings and probably still won't make the field, but still.

[GoMuskies]

Wow. Gives us another top 25 win!

But they've got almost no chance at an at-large.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Wow. Gives us another top 25 win!

But they've got almost no chance at an at-large.

Does that count if they werent a top 25 team when we beat them? If so does that take away Seton Hall and Georgetown (twice) from our list of top 25 teams beat?

[GoMuskies]

I think it's much more impressive to beat at team that ends up in the top 25 than one that just happens to be in the top 25 when you beat them.

[XUFan09]

I think it's much more impressive to beat at team that ends up in the top 25 than one that just happens to be in the top 25 when you beat them.
I think it's about the same, as it's not like late-season rankings are really better than mid-season. They are all poor assessments. Murray State's inclusion when they aren't even in line for an at-large bid is a good example.

[xubrew]

I think it matters a lot.

Nebraska, Michigan, UConn and Florida WERE ranked, yet it turns out they all stink, so beating them when they were ranked really isn't the same as beating a team that legitimately should be ranked.


At the same time, Baylor and Arkansas weren't ranked at all. I don't think either team even received any votes in the preseason. But, had you beaten them early on, the committee will give you credit for beating a ranked team even if they weren't ranked at the time.

[xubrew]

We could have done without that Texas win.

[waggy]

Supposedly fans booing in Bloomington tonight.

I doubt Crean survives if he misses the tourney.

[GoMuskies]

Please don't blow this Georgia. Please don't blow this Georgia. Please don't blow this Georgia.

[paulxu]

It seems we would be helped by FGCU and Alabama winning.
1-1.

[waggy]

Alabama lost at home.

I noticed that Mizzou won. But it was over Auburn. A wash again.

[GoMuskies]

Damn you Georgia.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I would love to see a game at Phog Allen. Always seems like an amazing atmosphere.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Love seeing Thuggins and WVU implode at the end of regulation against Kansas. Going to OT.

Rock Chalk.

[GoMuskies]

I would love to see a game at Phog Allen. Always seems like an amazing atmosphere.

Definitely a cool place to see a game. I pissed off an obnoxious Jayhawk colleague by casually comparing it to Hinkle.

[D-West & PO-Z]

West Virginia has had a couple not so great calls go against them here in OT.

Also why do refs constantly miss travel calls when a play catches a pass near enough to the basket where the play takes off and dunks after catching it but doesnt dribble and clearly takes 3 steps?

[GoMuskies]

Dez got a lot of love on SportsCenter tonight.

[Xville]

Dez got a lot of love on SportsCenter tonight.

Shhhhh!!! We aren't allowed to mention his name around here...we must move on

[D-West & PO-Z]

Welp the #1 play tonight is coming from the IU/MSU game. Unbelievable put back dunk by some IU palyer, way above the rim, one handed, arm fully extended put back slam off a missed 3. Wow.

[Masterofreality]

On National Network CBS right now....a team that can't score vs a guy who can't coach.

Nice choice, CBS. My eyes are bleeding already....and my ears are too with Steve "The Beav" Lappas on color commentary.

[GoMuskies]

Murray State thumped Tulsa by 21 yesterday at Tulsa in NIT action. If they had scheduled that game (with that result) in the regular season, they wouldn't be in the NIT.

[Masterofreality]

Anybody realize that our opening game opponent Northern Arizona is still playing?

In the CIT? They play Kent State Friday night and have won 21 games.

[X-band '01]

Northern Arizona and NJIT are among the teams remaining in the CIT if you're paying attention to these sort of things.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Yikes. Really scary play here in the Stanford/Vandy NIT game. Player for Vandy got knocked out basically by an unintentional elbow and then hit his head again on the way down and was very wobbly, looked to literally had no idea where he was. Even as he was helped off the court, looked very confused. Hope he is ok.

[xubrew]

I don't know what compelled Eastern Washington schedule a game at 8am local time other than wanting to be the first official game of the season. They're playing Texas Southern. Neither team is likely to get anywhere close to the bubble, but both are expected to be two of the better teams in their leagues, so I guess it could be worse. And, for a few short hours, the winner of this game will be kings of college basketball. Then...the other games will start...

http://www.americaonesports.com/bigskyplayer.asp?aptid=41

I feel this way every March. March is great, but I think November is better. It is the longest expanse of college basketball that we have ahead of us, and we get so many good games in the exempt tournaments. I like seeing all these teams we've read about all offseason for the first time, and seeing how teams that you weren't thinking about kind of jump off the page and make a case for themselves.

Yesterday, I watched the CIT quarterfinal between Canisius and NJIT, and DVR'd the Elite Eight games. I didn't even watch them live. It's ironic, but for most people this is as big into college basketball as they ever are. For me, it already feels like it's over. There are more games in November than March, and as crazy as it sounds, I think we learn more in November than we do in March, which makes it more fun.

[Masterofreality]

I feel this way every March. March is great, but I think November is better. It is the longest expanse of college basketball that we have ahead of us, and we get so many good games in the exempt tournaments. I like seeing all these teams we've read about all offseason for the first time, and seeing how teams that you weren't thinking about kind of jump off the page and make a case for themselves.

Yesterday, I watched the CIT quarterfinal between Canisius and NJIT, and DVR'd the Elite Eight games. I didn't even watch them live. It's ironic, but for most people this is as big into college basketball as they ever are. For me, it already feels like it's over. There are more games in November than March, and as crazy as it sounds, I think we learn more in November than we do in March, which makes it more fun.

Brew, props.

U are the ultimate College Basketball junkie and, unfortunately, you're about to go into a 7 1/2 month withdrawal.

I feel your pain.

[X-Fan]

Seriously, when do we find out our matchup in the Gavitt Tip Off? Who do we play in the holiday tourney? Will Brandon stay or go? Who's transfering in?

Cannot wait for Team 94!!!!

[xubrew]

Seriously, when do we find out our matchup in the Gavitt Tip Off? Who do we play in the holiday tourney? Will Brandon stay or go? Who's transfering in?

Cannot wait for Team 94!!!!

They'll probably bracket the Holiday Tournament in July, after the athletic New Year. Or....they'll do it tomorrow. I can't figure out the exempt tournaments. I can't figure out how they go about selecting teams, and I can't figure out how they build the brackets. There are teams that want in that never seem to get in. There are others that don't want in that always seem to get in. So, I give up.

The only trend that I've noticed is that teams that the teams who rate high in the TV ratings are typically placed on opposite sides of the bracket, which makes sense since these are made for TV events.