Xavier NCAA articles

[D-West & PO-Z]

Thought I would make a spot for articles related to XU in the tourney and maybe their opponents too.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/id/12482305/a-first-look-every-team-2015-ncaa-tournament-basketball-field

Ole Miss Rebels (45): On Jan. 6, the Rebels came closer than anyone else to knocking off No. 1 Kentucky, and in Rupp Arena to boot. The guards who nearly pulled it off -- Stefan Moody and Jarvis Summers -- remain productive threats, but the Rebels' awful defense turned a 10-4 start to SEC play to an 11-7 finish, a first-round SEC tourney loss to South Carolina, and a near-scrape with the NIT. The trend line is not promising.


Xavier Musketeers (32) : The Musketeers took their lumps in a tough Big East. In the process, they were forged into one of the nation's most well-rounded offenses. None of Xavier's regular rotation players uses more than a quarter of its their available possessions or shots when on the floor. All of them are efficient. One of them -- center Matt Stainbrook -- is an Uber driver.


BYU Cougars (31): Thanks to some ill-timed injuries and a penchant for close losses, the Cougars were on their way to being the best team to miss out on the NCAA tournament ... until Feb. 28's road win at Gonzaga. That win made the Zags viable, which is good news for all of us. It gave us the chance to see school all-time leading scorer Tyler Haws (who passed Jimmer Fredette this season) and single-season triple-double record-holder Kyle Collinsworth (who broke the previous record of four with six this season) lead one of the nation's fastest offenses in the NCAA tournament.
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http://insider.espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/page/lunardi15Xavier/2015-ncaa-tournament-bracket-projections-xavier-musketeers

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=12490415

[D-West & PO-Z]

Thought I would make a spot for articles related to XU in the tourney and maybe their opponents too.



http://insider.espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/page/lunardi15Xavier/2015-ncaa-tournament-bracket-projections-xavier-musketeers


Here is a little bit from the insider article:


Biggest strength: The Musketeers do a good job spreading the scoring load and are one of the most offensively efficient teams in the country. Coach Mack's squad can go inside with Stainbrook and has a lot of options from the perimeter. Bluiett established himself as one of the Big East's top freshmen, and Davis provides senior leadership on a roster full of underclassmen.

Biggest weakness: Xavier has the depth of a seasoned tournament team but lacks experience. A freshman- and sophomore-heavy roster looks great for the future, but there are only a handful of players who have a tourney game under their belt. An opponent that has been there before could prove lethal for the Musketeers' staying power.

Best player: Stainbrook. The Western Michigan transfer and part-time Uber driver (seriously) is extremely efficient on the offensive end (28th in the country in effective field goal percentage) and broke out in the Musketeers' final conference game against Creighton with a season-high 26 points. Xavier will need a big game from the second-team all-conference selection if it wants to get out of its opening matchup.

X factor: Davis. He's the only four-year member of the program in the rotation and has embraced his leadership role. Davis does the little things and almost single-handedly won the crosstown shootout with Cincinnati. He's one of the most skilled passers in the country, and his best games have come in the Musketeers' biggest wins.

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://fivethirtyeight.com/interactives/march-madness-predictions-2015/#mens

Explanation to above bracket:

http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/march-madness-predictions-2015-methodology/

[D-West & PO-Z]

Giant Killers Link. Has BYU as biggest Giants killer having a 51% chance to beat us.

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/giant-killers/post?id=719

[LadyMuskie]

What?!?!? ESPN thinks a Big East team will lose in the first round? No way! I'm shocked. Shocked, I say!

[D-West & PO-Z]

Yeah seriously.

But from all I have read tonight I think I would rather play Ole Miss.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Wally Szerbiack (sp?) said on CBS Sports bracket show he wished a bid from the BE and Big 10 was taken away and given to smaller conference teams. The main host guy kind of ripped him for saying the BE shouldnt have gotten 6. Then he was kidn of like well the seeding was too high.

The Miami Ohio guy arguing for the little guys I guess. I think Colorado St and Temple have legit arguments, but they shouldnt have taken a BE bid, thats laughable. Try UCLA or IU

[xudash]

Wally Szerbiack (sp?) said on CBS Sports bracket show he wished a bid from the BE and Big 10 was taken away and given to smaller conference teams. The main host guy kind of ripped him for saying the BE shouldnt have gotten 6. Then he was kidn of like well the seeding was too high.

The Miami Ohio guy arguing for the little guys I guess. I think Colorado St and Temple have legit arguments, but they shouldnt have taken a BE bid, thats laughable. Try UCLA or IU

Miami (OH) and NCAA Basketball. They go together so well. Every other decade.

[GoMuskies]

I think the non power 5 got seriously hosed this year, and it's not a trend I like. UCLA and Indiana? Yech. Would make a fine NIT match up.

[LA Muskie]

I think the non power 5 got seriously hosed this year, and it's not a trend I like. UCLA and Indiana? Yech. Would make a fine NIT match up.

No doubt about it.

[waggy]

Would have loved to seen the reaction if the committe had made them (UCLA/IU) play each other in Dayton?

I doubt the committee has the balls.

[Muskeagle]

http://fivethirtyeight.com/interactives/march-madness-predictions-2015/#mens

Explanation to above bracket:

http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/march-madness-predictions-2015-methodology/

Holy Cow! I know UK is favored to win the tournament, but according to this site, they have a 41% chance of winning it all. WOW! Wonder when the last time a team was (using their methodology, of course) had that high of a chance to win it all!

Also, near as I could tell, 'Nova had the second highest chance of winning it all (11%), with Arizona and Wisconsin tied for third (10%).

[XUFan09]

I think the non power 5 got seriously hosed this year, and it's not a trend I like. UCLA and Indiana? Yech. Would make a fine NIT match up.
I agree. It's laughable that pundits are targeting Big East teams when none of the six are even double-digit seeds, but it is a bad trend. It also affects seeding. Just using Kenpom as a rough guide, generally when a team was seeded better than their ranking, they were a power conference team, while if they were seeded lower than their ranking, they were a non-power conference team.

[PM Thor]

The whole thing is exposed. Top conferences just have to play one another, screw the smaller conferences by not playing them, and they get rewarded with more bids. IU is a serious wonder and UCLA is a flat out joke. Meanwhile teams like Murray State sits out. This selection committee has made it harder for the smaller conferences to make the tourney, of this there is no doubt.

[bigdiggins]

The whole thing is exposed. Top conferences just have to play one another, screw the smaller conferences by not playing them, and they get rewarded with more bids. IU is a serious wonder and UCLA is a flat out joke. Meanwhile teams like Murray State sits out. This selection committee has made it harder for the smaller conferences to make the tourney, of this there is no doubt.

I'm tired of the Murray St argument. Play somebody. I know they'll cry the big conference schools won't play them, but last I checked there are good teams outside the power 5. Play some mvc teams, play some mountain west teams and a10 teams. Just because you cant buy a Ferrari doesn't mean you have to drive a 1982 chevette.

[X-band '01]

I heard one of the problems with Murray State was their insistence on starting home-and-homes at their court in Murray. They just don't have that kind of leverage in their program. When Xavier was in the A-10, they normally started home-and-homes on the road and wound up playing the likes of Wisconsin, Illinois, Purdue and a bevy of SEC schools.

Which reminds me, how has Xavier not played Ole Miss or South Carolina yet? They've played almost everyone else not named Kentucky.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Murrary is a bad example. The 4 best teams they played I believe they lost to.

But Temple kind of got screwed out of the American as did Colorado St (are they Mountain West?)

[GoMuskies]

Play some mvc teams

Murray State was 4-0 against MVC teams.

[paulxu]

Which reminds me, how has Xavier not played Ole Miss or South Carolina yet?

Glow and I have been trying like hell. I want to see the Muskies in South Carolina.

Where is Glow, btw.

[Masterofreality]

What?!?!? ESPN thinks a Big East team will lose in the first round? No way! I'm shocked. Shocked, I say!

That only started in July, 2014. Prior to that.........

[Masterofreality]

Wally Szerbiack (sp?) said on CBS Sports bracket show he wished a bid from the BE and Big 10 was taken away and given to smaller conference teams. The main host guy kind of ripped him for saying the BE shouldnt have gotten 6. Then he was kidn of like well the seeding was too high.

The Miami Ohio guy arguing for the little guys I guess. I think Colorado St and Temple have legit arguments, but they shouldnt have taken a BE bid, thats laughable. Try UCLA or IU

Indiana and Mississippi are bigger jokes in the bracket than UCLA. Purdue is not far behind.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Indiana and Mississippi are bigger jokes in the bracket than UCLA. Purdue is not far behind.

Mississippi has 1 more top 50 win and almost double the top 100 wins though. I think UCLA was the worst inclusion.

[Masterofreality]

Mississippi has 1 more top 50 win and almost double the top 100 wins though. I think UCLA was the worst inclusion.

I could give you that. I didn't look that deep in the numbers, but Ole Miss must have had some very bad losses...like one to vdump.

[SemajParlor]

http://fivethirtyeight.com/interactives/march-madness-predictions-2015/#mens

Explanation to above bracket:

http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/march-madness-predictions-2015-methodology/

This is very cool.

[D-West & PO-Z]

This is very cool.

They have Buffalo as by far the most likely 12 seed to advance.

[D-West & PO-Z]

They have Buffalo as by far the most likely 12 seed to advance.

And they actually give SF Austin the worst chance to win among the 12 seeds which I thought was interesting.

Gave Georgia St a 24% chance to upset Baylor.

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/104768/medcalfs-10-bold-ncaa-tourney-predictions-2


Georgia State will defeat Baylor in the round of 64. Scott Drew has overachieved in many ways this season. The Bears are still a strong team after losing some talented players from last season. But R.J. Hunter, a legitimate pro prospect, will be the best player on the floor when Baylor faces Georgia State in the round of 64. Kevin Ware is a veteran with NCAA tournament experience. And a healthy Ryan Harrow is a dangerous Ryan Harrow. Coach Ron Hunter, who hurt himself during his team’s Sun Belt tourney title celebration, will score a major upset.



BYU will go from play-in game to Sweet 16. Dave Rose’s program will beat Ole Miss in Dayton to advance to a matchup against Xavier that the Cougars also will win after another stunning performance by Tyler Haws. Then, they’ll outplay Cinderella Georgia State in the round of 32 to advance to the Sweet 16. Sorry, BYU fans. The Cougars are not getting past Arizona.

[GoMuskies]

Not really feeling Georgia State. I don't see a single good win, and I see some pretty uninspiring losses (Texas State, App. State, UALR).

Baylor will probably beat them about like Iowa State did.

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://insider.espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/id/12492395/jay-bilas-bracket-depth-pick-pick-2015-ncaa-tournament-advice


11 BYU over 6 Xavier: The Cougars are the undervalued team in this bracket, and will outscore Xavier after dispatching Ole Miss in the First Four. BYU does not play stellar defense, but the Cougars can play at a fast tempo and put up big points. BYU did not beat many really good teams, but it is still a really good team. I like BYU to win and move forward.


3 Baylor over 14 Georgia State: Baylor can crash the offensive glass, and that will be the difference against Georgia State. While Ryan Harrow, R.J. Hunter and Kevin Ware can all play, the Panthers cannot match Baylor on the glass. Baylor wins.

[XUBob]

That might be one of the stupidest statements I've ever read. BYU didn't beat many good teams but they are a still a really good team. Where is the logic in that. ESPN is going out of their way to downgrade the Big East it's getting comical. I hope X plays physical D and proves all the so-called experts wrong.

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://www.foxsports.com/college-basketball/story/just-the-ncaa-tournament-facts-68-teams-68-things-you-need-to-know-031615


6. Xavier: Xavier is one of only 12 schools that has been to at least four Sweet 16s in the last seven years.

11a. BYU: No basketball program has played in more NCAA tournaments without reaching a Final Four than BYU — a team that scores more points per game (83.6) than anyone in the 2015 field and has a triple-threat in Kyle Collinsworth, a junior who is tied for most triple doubles in NCAA history, with six (all this season).

11b. Ole Miss: At 77.8 percent on the season, the Rebels’ free throw shooting is the best among NCAA tournament teams, with Stefan Moody leading the effort at 90.1 percent on 162 attempts.

3. Baylor: Rico Gathers — a relative of the late Hank Gathers — has 17 double-doubles this season, tops among players in the NCAA tournament.

14. Georgia State: The second-largest university in Georgia, Georgia State is in the field for the first time since 2001, when it beat Wisconsin in the first round with Lefty Driesell at the helm.

[SemajParlor]

And they actually give SF Austin the worst chance to win among the 12 seeds which I thought was interesting.

Gave Georgia St a 24% chance to upset Baylor.

You catch the New Mexico State getting a 9% vs Kansas? By far the most of the 2 vs 15s. Will definitely be tuning in now.

[D-West & PO-Z]

You catch the New Mexico State getting a 9% vs Kansas? By far the most of the 2 vs 15s. Will definitely be tuning in now.

Interesting, I didnt see that.

Kansas is a tough team for me to predict. At first I had them in Elite 8, then I had them losing to Wichita in Round of 32.

I think they played the most top 50 teams of anyone in the country in I can remember correctly. They have a ton of talent but I'm not sure how their injury situation is playing out. They do have a history of flaming out early too.

[usfldan]

Yahoo is in on the BYU love, too:

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/ncaab-the-dagger/bracket-flames--boomer-sooner--oklahoma-one-of-six-tourney-sleepers-222451741.html

BYU Cougars ( 25-9, No. 11 seed, West region)
Speed and relentless scoring are the name of BYU's game. The Stormin' Mormons function at a high level offensively. They play at an exhaustive pace averaging over 70 possessions per game. Many teams that push pedal-to-metal don't execute smoothly, but the Cougars certainly do. They shoot over 38 percent from three, 50 percent inside the arc and 77 percent at the charity stripe. In terms of offensive efficiency, they rank eighth nationally. Dudes can shoot. Kyle Collinsworth is the NCAA's version of Russell Westbrook, an unsung stud who's logged six triple-doubles this year. Not to be outdone, his compatriot, Tyler Haws, has totaled 20-plus points in 17 games. BYU also rarely turns the ball over coughing up the orange on just 16.4 percent of its possessions. Defensively it occasionally lags, evident in its 130-plus ranking in six defensive categories. Late-season setbacks to Anson Winder and Chase Fischer also raises concern. Still, this is a team that peaked down the homestrech improbably upending Gonzaga in the Kennel. If the Cougars can play even average defense, they should bounce Ole Miss in the First Four and eliminate Xavier shortly thereafter. Danger danger.


BYU has the second-worst defense of any at-large team, and Xavier was the No. 2 scoring offense in the Big East. I'll take that.

[paulxu]

So, I watch the little 1 minute clip from Lunardi on Xavier, who he thinks will lose to BYU.
He closes with this gem...the Musketeers haven't been to the dance in 3 years.

Do they pay these people in real money?

[LA Muskie]

We're arguably over-seeded at 6 and BYU is probably underseeded at 11. And both BYU and Ole Miss present some matchup issues for us defensively (although we also present matchup problems on the other end of the floor). So I'm no surpised that we are a popular upset prediction. But in my experience the popular upset predictions rarely materialize. So...you know...we've got that going for us.

[xsteve1]

So, I watch the little 1 minute clip from Lunardi on Xavier, who he thinks will lose to BYU.
He closes with this gem...the Musketeers haven't been to the dance in 3 years.

Do they pay these people in real money?

If he's going by the PIG then maybe he's correct. Does losing in the PIG count as being in the tourney? I always assumed it did.

[LA Muskie]

Not to me, but my opinion doesn't matter. As far as the NCAA is concerned, yes. And they are the ones who matter (and pay out the units, which playing in the PIGs accrue).

[D-West & PO-Z]

If he's going by the PIG then maybe he's correct. Does losing in the PIG count as being in the tourney? I always assumed it did.

It does count but even if he wasnt counting it he still wouldnt be correct.

[LadyMuskie]

So, I watch the little 1 minute clip from Lunardi on Xavier, who he thinks will lose to BYU.
He closes with this gem...the Musketeers haven't been to the dance in 3 years.

Do they pay these people in real money?

Hmmm. . . one of the posters on here kept saying X hadn't been to the dance in three years as well - and this was before January ended. Coincidence? I think not. Lunardi posts on XHoops!

[DC Muskie]

All the knobbers at SI picked BYU. They seem to be the best team in the tournament because they are so fun to watch.

[waggy]

All the knobbers at SI picked BYU. They seem to be the best team in the tournament because they are so fun to watch.


Pretty sure Vegas has X as a 5 point dog to "TBA". Someone better send Coach Mack a memo.

[DC Muskie]

Pretty sure Vegas has X as a 5 point dog to "TBA". Someone better send Coach Mack a memo.

Someone better fire up that memo! TBA is pretty good.

[paulxu]

It does count but even if he wasnt counting it he still wouldnt be correct.

Exactly.

[SM#24]

per USA Today:
X -1 v BYU
X -2.5 v Miss

[waggy]

per USA Today:
X -1 v BYU
X -2.5 v Miss


We're being disrespected up in here!

[D-West & PO-Z]

Jeff Goodman ranked all 340 starters in the tourney this year.

http://insider.espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/id/12495300/ranking-ncaa-tournament-starters-1-340-college-basketball

134. Matt Stainbrook, Xavier -- The senior big man put up 12 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

135. Trevon Bluiett, Xavier -- The freshman wing can score. He averaged 11.7 points this season.

161. Remy Abell, Xavier -- The one-time Indiana guard averaged 8.7 points this season for Chris Mack.

218. Dee Davis, Xavier -- The senior point guard averaged 8.4 points and 6.2 assists for the Musketeers.

241. James Farr, Xavier -- The junior forward averaged 4.5 points and 5.2 boards.

Basically all he says about any of our players is their stat line.

[GoMuskies]

Our team is better than the sum of its parts. Or at least it damned well better be!

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/id/12505921/which-ncaa-tournament-teams-beat-kentucky-wildcats

Chances each team has to beat UK.
23. Xavier Musketeers: Probably not, even on a great day -- Chris Mack's squad shoots 53 percent inside the arc. Xavier's opponents, however, also connect on 49 percent of their 2-point attempts. The Musketeers would have to evolve into a more fortified defensive team inside, and unless David West shows up, it ain't happening.

[GoMuskies]

unless David West shows up, it ain't happening.

I understand that David West is soft anyway. Most of his rebounds come from the weak side. So he obviously wouldn't help.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I understand that David West is soft anyway. Most of his rebounds come from the weak side. So he obviously wouldn't help.

Obvi

[D-West & PO-Z]

Here is a link with some info for anyone betting out there on the games.

http://espn.go.com/chalk/story/_/id/12506137/2015-ncaa-tournament-100-betting-nuggets-tourney

Here is one interesting section:

Five odds and ends

-- Twenty of Indiana's 31 lined games have gone over the total with one push.

-- Twelve of Harvard's 18 games with a posted over/under total have stayed under the total.

-- Kentucky, Villanova and Wisconsin are the only teams to be favored in every game this season.

-- Duke is 3-7 ATS in its past 10 opening games in the tournament.

-- Davidson is 8-2 ATS as an underdog this season.

[JTG]

I understand that David West is soft anyway. Most of his rebounds come from the weak side. So he obviously wouldn't help.

You tell him he's soft. He is generally considered a member of the NBA ALL Badass Team...half of his own teammates are afraid of him.

[XUXC11]

You tell him he's soft. He is generally considered a member of the NBA ALL Badass Team...half of his own teammates are afraid of him.

I think you should look up sarcasm.

[XUFan09]

Jeff Goodman ranked all 340 starters in the tourney this year.

http://insider.espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/id/12495300/ranking-ncaa-tournament-starters-1-340-college-basketball

134. Matt Stainbrook, Xavier -- The senior big man put up 12 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

135. Trevon Bluiett, Xavier -- The freshman wing can score. He averaged 11.7 points this season.

161. Remy Abell, Xavier -- The one-time Indiana guard averaged 8.7 points this season for Chris Mack.

218. Dee Davis, Xavier -- The senior point guard averaged 8.4 points and 6.2 assists for the Musketeers.

241. James Farr, Xavier -- The junior forward averaged 4.5 points and 5.2 boards.

Basically all he says about any of our players is their stat line.

Wow. Disagree with Stainbrook not being a top 100 player and definitely disagree with Dee Davis being ranked well below Remy and 23 spots from Farr.

[XUFan09]

You tell him he's soft. He is generally considered a member of the NBA ALL Badass Team...half of his own teammates are afraid of him.

I'm pretty sure it was a common claim made by Dayton fans...because they're stupid.

[Masterofreality]

I'm pretty sure it was a common claim made by Dayton fans...because they're stupid.

....and before he dropped a cool 47 on Keith Waleskowski's head.

[American X]

http://fivethirtyeight.com/interactives/march-madness-predictions-2015/#mens

Explanation to above bracket:

http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/march-madness-predictions-2015-methodology/

This is really interesting. Thank you for posting.

One part that caught my attention was using preseason rankings as an indicator of postseason success. The idea being, whatever happened during the regular season, in the tournament teams tend to perform as they were supposed to (e.g. Kentucky and UConn last year). So be on the lookout for underachievers to surprise (Texas, Michigan State, North Carolina) and overachievers to flame out (Maryland, Notre Dame, Georgetown and BAYLOR).

[D-West & PO-Z]

This is really interesting. Thank you for posting.

One part that caught my attention was using preseason rankings as an indicator of postseason success. The idea being, whatever happened during the regular season, in the tournament teams tend to perform as they were supposed to (e.g. Kentucky and UConn last year). So be on the lookout for underachievers to surprise (Texas, Michigan State, North Carolina) and overachievers to flame out (Maryland, Notre Dame, Georgetown and BAYLOR).

Yeah I thought that was interesting as well.

[xufan2434]

Has anyone seen anywhere in writing of someone picking X to win?

I haven't and it's comical. Can't wait for 410 tomorrow

[waggy]

Gillen picked X. But in video not print. And he's an X hall of famer, so not sure that counts.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Has anyone seen anywhere in writing of someone picking X to win?

I haven't and it's comical. Can't wait for 410 tomorrow

Gillen, Greenburg and Golic from Mike and Mike, Michael Smith, Jimmy Kimmel, Matthew Berry (fantasy football guy), Tim Cowlishaw, Kevin Hart the comedian has us in the Sweet 16, Will Ferrell.

Not a lot of guys on TV though. Those guys above I saw the celebrity brackets on ESPN's tourney challenge page.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Ha! Kermit the Frog has us in the Final 4 with UK, Nova, and Duke. Dick Vitale has us beating Ole Miss.

[xu82]

Ha! Kermit the Frog has us in the Final 4 with UK, Nova, and Duke. Dick Vitale has us beating Ole Miss.

I hate agreeing with that windbag Vitale, but on this I'm all in!

GO 'NOVA!

[LadyMuskie]

Ha! Kermit the Frog has us in the Final 4 with UK, Nova, and Duke. Dick Vitale has us beating Ole Miss.

I saw this and thought "who is nicknamed Kermit the Frog"? But, now I get it. I always loved that little green frog! Rock on, Kermit!

[THRILLHOUSE]

Fox Sports' Stewart Mandel has X winning vs Ole Miss

http://www.foxsports.com/college-basketball/story/ncaa-tournament-bracket-kentucky-duke-office-pool-031815

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://fivethirtyeight.com/interactives/march-madness-predictions-2015/#mens

Explanation to above bracket:

http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/march-madness-predictions-2015-methodology/

This bracket updates as the tourney goes on:

http://fivethirtyeight.com/interactives/march-madness-predictions-2015/#mens

Now gives us a 70% chance for Sweet 16, 13% for Elite 8, 4% for Final 4, 1% for Finals, and we remain at less than 1% for winning it all.

[waggy]

Wisky is the only team in the west I think X can't really play with. I have them in my bracket, but would love to see them go down early.

[LA Muskie]

Wisky is the only team in the west I think X can't really play with. I have them in my bracket, but would love to see them go down early.
Waggy, what about AZ? They seem like a REALLY bad matchup for us (from my perspective, worse than Wisc). I've watched them a good amount this year. I have AZ beating UK -- and think they are one of only 2 teams that reliably could do so (the other being 'Nova).

[waggy]

Arizona starts a transfer from Duquesne. How good could they really be?

Has Miller ever recruited a 4 year point?

[Wheelhouse]

Waggy, what about AZ? They seem like a REALLY bad matchup for us (from my perspective, worse than Wisc). I've watched them a good amount this year. I have AZ beating UK -- and think they are one of only 2 teams that reliably could do so (the other being 'Nova).

I actually think we match up worse with Arizona as well, but both would be difficult games. No unwinnable, but very tough. Let's beat Georgia St. and see what we can do!

[XUFan09]

Arizona starts a transfer from Duquesne. How good could they really be?

Has Miller ever recruited a 4 year point?

T.J. McConnell is a stud that Duquesne was lucky to have for two years, in large part because his aunt was the women's coach.

[XUFan09]

This bracket updates as the tourney goes on:

http://fivethirtyeight.com/interactives/march-madness-predictions-2015/#mens

Now gives us a 70% chance for Sweet 16, 13% for Elite 8, 4% for Final 4, 1% for Finals, and we remain at less than 1% for winning it all.

UK has a 37% chance of winning it all. Villanova is a distant second at 16%, followed by Wisconsin at 10%. It's crazy how much he favors Arizona over OSU (81%), but Arizona is just so good.

[waggy]

T.J. McConnell is a stud that Duquesne was lucky to have for two years, in large part because his aunt was the women's coach.


I know who McConnell is. Thanks.

[SemajParlor]

Let's go Ohio St!

[XUFan09]

I know who McConnell is. Thanks.
I was mostly adding the story about how exactly he ended up there. Duquesne was very lucky.

Relative to the respective programs' levels, it would be like if a future lottery pick was related to Brian Neal and that proved significant to the player's decision to come to Xavier over Duke, UK, etc.

[Masterofreality]

T.J. McConnell is a stud that Duquesne was lucky to have for two years, in large part because his aunt was the women's coach.

Why did Dookcane ever fire Ron Everhard? Why???? :thumbsdown:

[D-West & PO-Z]

UK has a 37% chance of winning it all. Villanova is a distant second at 16%, followed by Wisconsin at 10%. It's crazy how much he favors Arizona over OSU (81%), but Arizona is just so good.

Hm interesting on UK, their % actually decreased from before the tourney even started. It was 41% before.

[XUFan09]

Hm interesting on UK, their % actually decreased from before the tourney even started. It was 41% before.
Maybe because both UC and Notre Dame won rather than the weaker opponents. Plus, Villanova and Arizona both trounced their opponents, and the formula includes advanced metrics.

[LA Muskie]

I know who McConnell is. Thanks.
Let's not get our panties in a bunch, Waggy. '09 couldn't have known that you knew that. And even if you did, it was information others (like me) didn't know.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Maybe because both UC and Notre Dame won rather than the weaker opponents. Plus, Villanova and Arizona both trounced their opponents, and the formula includes advanced metrics.

Yeah, that makes sense.

[SteveSpivery]

I can never find the post game press conference anymore. Anyone know where it is?

[Madfan]

I can never find the post game press conference anymore. Anyone know where it is?

I can't ever find it either! Help is much appreciated.

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/105571/how-they-got-to-the-sweet-16-xavier

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://fivethirtyeight.com/interactives/march-madness-predictions-2015/#mens

Explanation to above bracket:

http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/march-madness-predictions-2015-methodology/

13% chance for Elite 8 now and 4% for Final 4.

[D-West & PO-Z]

13% chance for Elite 8 now and 4% for Final 4.

Actually this is the same as it was even before we won.

[SteveSpivery]

I still have not found the post game. Here is the pregame and a couple of others

NCAA 3rd Round Pregame Press Conference - Coach Mack (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zqcb_Q_9iwE)

NCAA 3rd Round Pregame Press Conference - Player (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9OopEdc7zw)

NCAA Postgame Press Conference - Xavier Men's Basketball - Ole Miss (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Dk9PKGiLOo)

Xavier Musketeers welcomed back to campus (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PeBBW7wOui0)

[fellahmuskie]

I also found this video from Fox 19 with post-game interviews in the locker room. I love the intensity on this team. We've come so far from December.

Xavier Heading to Sweet 16 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPZRXLUzboo&feature=youtu.be)

[WCWIII]

NCAA 3rd Round Postgame Press Conference - Xavier (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f35yRKLUVzg)

[D-West & PO-Z]

Article about Nova not getting past first weekend again:

http://espn.go.com/blog/collegebasketballnation/post/_/id/105589/sweet-16-to-happen-without-villanova-again

[D-West & PO-Z]

Articles on what Nova and Butler will look like next year:

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/ncbrecruiting/on-the-trail/post/_/id/13179/recruit-and-return-villanova-wildcats

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/ncbrecruiting/on-the-trail/post/_/id/13283/recruit-and-return-butler-bulldogs

[markchal]

Thanks for posting. Still pissed at Nova choking and shredding the BE rep.

[Cheesehead]

I thought Providence would be a Sweet 16 team too

[markchal]

Agreed on Providence. I at least thought they would make it to the round of 32. The second-biggest BE disappointment for sure.

[THRILLHOUSE]

I thought Providence would be a Sweet 16 team too

Yep. Providence playing so poorly is one of the biggest surprises to me so far this tourney.

[X-Fan]

NCAA 3rd Round Postgame Press Conference - Xavier (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f35yRKLUVzg)
Thank you for posting! Reps!

I highly recommend you watch the Presser. Coach and the players touch on a number of great things, namely:
- the Big East preparing them to be Tourney battle tested
- Jalens journey and learning curve
- The obstacles the program has had to battle through over the past 4 years
- the expectation each player has coming to Xavier of winning and NCAA Tourney runs

GREAT stuff! Seriously, just package this up and send to future recruits!

I love my program! Go X!!!!

[X-Fan]

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/survival-of-the-fittest--breakdown-of-ncaa-tournament-s-cinderella-less-sweet-16-050551500.html

Decent article on the Sweet 16 by Forde. Talks about how the field is solid and points out that X is a program that belongs. Also, Big East semi dodges the title of most disappointing conference. Can't wait for Thursday!

[XUOWNSUC]

Here is an article where USA Today ranks the remaining 16 teams. Guess who is last?

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2015/03/23/ncaa-tournament-ranking-sweet-16-teams/25186537/

[Wheelhouse]

Here is an article where USA Today ranks the remaining 16 teams. Guess who is last?

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2015/03/23/ncaa-tournament-ranking-sweet-16-teams/25186537/

Maybe the worst list I've ever seen. I have no issue with us being near the bottom but putting UCLA at 10 is patently absurd.

[LadyMuskie]

Here is an article where USA Today ranks the remaining 16 teams. Guess who is last?

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2015/03/23/ncaa-tournament-ranking-sweet-16-teams/25186537/

eXcellent! More bulletin board material. No sense in having people start respecting us now. We're fueling our wins with this nonsense!

Aren't there more idiot sports writers out there who can contribute fuel to our burning rage?

Edit: I just read the article. The worst part seems to be the thinking that we beat Ole Miss because they were tired. I really feel like if the author had dug deep, he could have done a better job at providing us with the hate-fire we need. Sigh. You just can't count on journalists to do anything right these days.

[markchal]

Maybe the worst list I've ever seen. I have no issue with us being near the bottom but putting UCLA at 10 is patently absurd.

I agree with this. I'm fine being near the bottom, sure as shit beats being bounced already. But UCLA is nowhere near 10.

[paulxu]

This guy seemed like he could have thrown it off the body, or legs...but just sort of decided to nail JP in the face.
Hope this keeps his fire going through next week with whatever chances Mack gives him.

http://fansided.com/2015/03/22/j-p-macura-gets-nailed-face-basketball-video/?utm_source=FanSided+Daily&utm_medium=email

[X-Fan]

eXcellent! More bulletin board material. No sense in having people start respecting us now. We're fueling our wins with this nonsense!

Aren't there more idiot sports writers out there who can contribute fuel to our burning rage?
Yes there are. I can't recall which moron said it, but the writer lessened Xavier's win over Georgia State by saying they "needed" a record shooting night to win. How convenient that X shooting well is the only way they could have won. Freaking tools.

[Masterofreality]

Who gives a fuck? They don't play games in the Newspaper. It says that we're playing in Los Angeles on Thursday night in the Sweet 16.

Just win basketball games, and everything else is BS.

[markchal]

Who gives a fuck? They don't play games in the Newspaper. It says that we're playing in Los Angeles on Thursday night in the Sweet 16.

Just win basketball games, and everything else is BS.

I think I agree with this more than anything else on the thread. It's interesting to see what people say about us, but ultimately, it doesn't matter at all. The media had such a boner for Georgia St. and would've given anything for that Cinderella, but we just took care of business and ended that narrative. Everyone picked BYU to the Sweet 16, but that won't change what goes on our banner.

[muskiefan82]

I am quite sure there are 52 other teams who WISH they had beaten the team on the other side of the ledger. Can't help who you play. Baylor should have taken care of business. They did not. Great for Georgia St. and great for the Muskies.

[RealDeal]

Ole Miss was better than BYU, want proof? Scoreboard.
GA State was better than Baylor, want proof? Scoreboard.

[RoseyMuskie]

Yes there are. I can't recall which moron said it, but the writer lessened Xavier's win over Georgia State by saying they "needed" a record shooting night to win. How convenient that X shooting well is the only way they could have won. Freaking tools.

And we as Xavier fans know that we weren't hitting miracle shots. Our threes were generally wide-open, or we had a close to the rim look. I know shooting and percentages have a way of evening themselves out; however, I do not believe we were "lucky" Saturday. Our size down low and leadership from Dee were the different makers, and allowed us good looks. Not like RJ Hunter threes.

Efficient, yes. Lucky, no.

[Masterofreality]

And we as Xavier fans know that we weren't hitting miracle shots. Our threes were generally wide-open, or we had a close to the rim look. I know shooting and percentages have a way of evening themselves out; however, I do not believe we were "lucky" Saturday. Our size down low and leadership from Dee were the different makers, and allowed us good looks. Not like RJ Hunter threes.

Efficient, yes. Lucky, no.

This. Our offense was purring like a well-tuned engine. To be fair, there have been games where we had wide ass open looks and missed them, as all teams do. You won't have many games where you miss only 3 shots in a half, but that is not to lessen the efficiency and the scheme that those shots resulted from.

I watched the game again. Just beautiful basketball on our part offensively, although I'm sure the coaches are going over the defense and the turnovers in the film room pretty hard.

[XUOWNSUC]

Another article - this one "re-seeds" the remaining field (we aren't last this time):

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/id/12538993/reseeding-sweet-16-men-ncaa-tournament-field

[X Factor]

A little bit more respect from this guy at ESPN...

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/id/12538993/reseeding-sweet-16-men-ncaa-tournament-field

[Masterofreality]

Funny how they have their darling Zags over Wisconsin. Sorry, no way.

[LadyMuskie]

And we as Xavier fans know that we weren't hitting miracle shots. Our threes were generally wide-open, or we had a close to the rim look. I know shooting and percentages have a way of evening themselves out; however, I do not believe we were "lucky" Saturday. Our size down low and leadership from Dee were the different makers, and allowed us good looks. Not like RJ Hunter threes.

Efficient, yes. Lucky, no.

Agree. We weren't lucky. We played damn hard in both games to get where we are. We earned those wins - they weren't given to us.

[NY44]

A little bit more respect from this guy at ESPN...

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/id/12538993/reseeding-sweet-16-men-ncaa-tournament-field


The Musketeers' 67.6 percent shooting mark from the field was the third-best field goal percentage in the last 15 NCAA tournaments

Holy crap, that's a hell of a stat.

[markchal]

Agree. We weren't lucky. We played damn hard in both games to get where we are. We earned those wins - they weren't given to us.

We certainly weren't lucky in the games, we just played well. I do think we were lucky in the draw though. We matched up better with Ole Miss than we did with BYU (though I think we would've beat BYU as well) and we absolutely matched up better with Georgia St. than we did with Baylor. They could not match our size at all and it was our rebounding/interior scoring that won us that game.

[markchal]

Holy crap, that's a hell of a stat.

Especially given the fact that we are far from the best 3-shooting team in the BE, but knocked down 7 threes (a lot of them open) in this game. Myles getting out of his slump was massive for us.

[LadyMuskie]

We certainly weren't lucky in the games, we just played well. I do think we were lucky in the draw though. We matched up better with Ole Miss than we did with BYU (though I think we would've beat BYU as well) and we absolutely matched up better with Georgia St. than we did with Baylor. They could not match our size at all and it was our rebounding/interior scoring that won us that game.

I'm sorry, but there is absolutely no way to know what the outcome of a BYU v. Xavier or a Baylor v. Xavier game would be because it never happened. So, I'm not willing to concede that we were Lucky to not have to play those teams because somehow everyone just knows that we would have lost had we faced so-called worse matchups. Those teams weren't good enough to get past the teams they faced, so who's to say they were good enough to get past us? That's all conjecture. Had we faced the prospect of playing Nova again, I would agree that we were lucky if they got knocked out before we met them, but I still would give us a slim chance of beating them, and that's because we had already played them 3 times this year. We would know a lot more going in.

The tournament is a whole new season. Drive, determination, being pissed off all play a much bigger role in these games. It reminds me, on a much larger scale, of the Crosstown Shootout. Anything can and usually does happen. It's part of what makes the tournament one of the best sporting events each and every year.

[markchal]

I'm sorry, but there is absolutely no way to know what the outcome of a BYU v. Xavier or a Baylor v. Xavier game would be because it never happened. So, I'm not willing to concede that we were Lucky to not have to play those teams because somehow everyone just knows that we would have lost had we faced so-called worse matchups. Those teams weren't good enough to get past the teams they faced, so who's to say they were good enough to get past us? That's all conjecture. Had we faced the prospect of playing Nova again, I would agree that we were lucky if they got knocked out before we met them, but I still would give us a slim chance of beating them, and that's because we had already played them 3 times this year. We would know a lot more going in.

The tournament is a whole new season. Drive, determination, being pissed off all play a much bigger role in these games. It reminds me, on a much larger scale, of the Crosstown Shootout. Anything can and usually does happen. It's part of what makes the tournament one of the best sporting events each and every year.

I never said we would lose if we played those teams, I just said I thought they would be tougher matchups for us. I think there was a pretty solid consensus among the fanbase that we'd rather play Ole Miss then Georgia St.

[mid major]

Agree. We weren't lucky. We played damn hard in both games to get where we are. We earned those wins - they weren't given to us.

And it's not our fault Baylor lost to Georgia State like it also wasn't our fault Duke lost to Lehigh in 2012.

[xudash]

Not an article, but Katz's Corner was respectful of Xavier today. Had Dino on. They had a nice interview with Chris.

Chris Mack absolutely represents Xavier in a top shelf manner.

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/jeff-goodman/post?id=4880

Remaining coaches ranked with most pressure on them:

14. Chris Mack, Xavier Musketeers

Xavier Final Fours/national titles: 0/0

Mack Final Fours/national titles: 0/0

Pressure and expectations: The Musketeers’ coach has gone to three Sweet 16s in six seasons and now faces his former boss, Sean Miller, and No. 1 seed Arizona. Mack isn’t supposed to win this one, and thus doesn’t have much pressure on him at all.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Hes messed up, Zona is a 2 seed obviously.

[Nocalmuskie]

Staibbrook on Gottleib show:

http://gottlieb.radio.cbssports.com/audio/the-doug-gottlieb-show/

[xu82]

Not an article, but Katz's Corner was respectful of Xavier today. Had Dino on. They had a nice interview with Chris.

Chris Mack absolutely represents Xavier in a top shelf manner.

I saw part of that and it was very complimentary. They say we have a very good coach. I wish more people had seen it. Good piece and I think I got it recorded to go back to.

[Backyard Champ]

Staibbrook on Gottleib show:

http://gottlieb.radio.cbssports.com/audio/the-doug-gottlieb-show/


Damn. I hate Gottleib, but I think he actually an okay interview there.


Still hate him though. He is awful when broadcasting games.

[xsteve1]

A look at X from A-Z in the Tucson Newspaper.

http://tucson.com/sports/basketball/college/wildcats/hansen-a-look-at-xavier-from-a-to-x/article_48cc0098-8837-5e64-8620-f1f4fb51099d.html

[azgreg]

Hansen is kind of a love him or hate him kind of guy in the Tucson media. Lute Olson hated him.

[nuts4xu]

Matt Stainbrook will be on the Dan Patrick Show sometime this morning.

Apparently he is an Uber driver?? Who knew?

[fellahmuskie]

Matt Stainbrook will be on the Dan Patrick Show sometime this morning.

Apparently he is an Uber driver?? Who knew?

Uber has gotten so much free positive press out of this Stainbrook thing. It's hilarious, too, because I'm sure Matt also drives for Lyft. At least I know most Uber/Lyft drivers are signed up for both services. Part of me wonders if Uber isn't paying the networks a little something on the side to bring it up in every broadcast.

[Juice]

Uber has gotten so much free positive press out of this Stainbrook thing. It's hilarious, too, because I'm sure Matt also drives for Lyft. At least I know most Uber/Lyft drivers are signed up for both services. Part of me wonders if Uber isn't paying the networks a little something on the side to bring it up in every broadcast.

I think they're just lazy and someone already did the homework and wrote the story for them so they are beating it into the ground.

I also find it hilarious that middle aged adults find uber so fascinating. I tell my parents or their friends that I use uber from time to time and they're astounded by it.

[GoMuskies]

A look at X from A-Z in the Tucson Newspaper.

http://tucson.com/sports/basketball/college/wildcats/hansen-a-look-at-xavier-from-a-to-x/article_48cc0098-8837-5e64-8620-f1f4fb51099d.html

His J is a bit odd. Did anyone tell him that Schmidt got the job at St. Bonaventure? The Robert Morris gig wasn't exactly a bad thing for Schmidt ' s career.

[nuts4xu]

A look at X from A-Z in the Tucson Newspaper.

http://tucson.com/sports/basketball/college/wildcats/hansen-a-look-at-xavier-from-a-to-x/article_48cc0098-8837-5e64-8620-f1f4fb51099d.html

No Y and Z? That is just plain lazy. And how did U not stand for Uber?

[fellahmuskie]

I think they're just lazy and someone already did the homework and wrote the story for them so they are beating it into the ground.

I also find it hilarious that middle aged adults find uber so fascinating. I tell my parents or their friends that I use uber from time to time and they're astounded by it.

You're probably right. And yes the fascination with Uber is funny. Just wait until they start rolling out their driverless cars.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I think they're just lazy and someone already did the homework and wrote the story for them so they are beating it into the ground.

I also find it hilarious that middle aged adults find uber so fascinating. I tell my parents or their friends that I use uber from time to time and they're astounded by it.

Ha, same. I dont even contemplate cabs anymore, it isnt even a thought.

[GoMuskies]

Ha, same. I dont even contemplate cabs anymore, it isnt even a thought.

Well, we don't have Uber in Wichita. Or cabs.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Vegas doesnt rank us last:

http://insider.espn.go.com/chalk/story/_/id/12544146/kentucky-wildcats-atop-sweet-16-vegas-ranks-college-basketball

13. Xavier Musketeers (90.5)

The Musketeers are peaking at the right time (their only losses in their past six games were both to Villanova). They blew out Mississippi and were mostly in control over Georgia State as they covered both and are 19-13 ATS (59.4 percent) overall.

Previous rating: 90


No. 6 Xavier vs. No. 2 Arizona
Westgate SuperBook line: Arizona -11
Vegas Ranks: Arizona -9 (99.5-90.5)

Our raw numbers have Arizona as 9 points better than Xavier, yet this line is all the way up to 11. Personally, I was close to upgrading Xavier even more, which would have made this an even bigger difference (so, yes, I'm hinting that I will also be on this play).

ATS pick: Xavier plus-11 or better

[jhelmes37]

And this Yahoo article claims we are dead last (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/ncaab-the-dagger/ranking-the-sweet-16-in-order-of-most-to-least-likely-to-win-a-title-022840368.html)as far as chances of winning goes.

So............Wichita State, NC State, Michigan State, and UCLA are all seeded worse than us. And we are last.

How are these even articles? The S-curve has been published............

[GoMuskies]

And this Yahoo article claims we are dead last (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/ncaab-the-dagger/ranking-the-sweet-16-in-order-of-most-to-least-likely-to-win-a-title-022840368.html)as far as chances of winning goes.

So............Wichita State, NC State, Michigan State, and UCLA are all seeded worse than us. And we are last.

How are these even articles? The S-curve has been published............

The Vegas odds have us at 75-1, tied with West Virginia with second-highest odds to win it all. UCLA is 100-1.

[azgreg]

I don't think he believes you guys are worse then those other teams just that your path is tougher. To win it all you have to beat Arizona, Wisconsin (my guess especially if Meeks doesn't play for NC), Kentucky, then either Duke or Gonzaga (my guess). That path is much tougher than any of the teams on the other side of the bracket.

[waggy]

Interested in the pre game press conferences. Looked for a schedule online but couldn't find one. I'm guessing they'll take place tomorrow. If anyone finds them after they are over, please post'em up.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Strengths and weaknesses of all 16 teams:

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/id/12547272/strengths-weaknesses-sweet-16-teams-ncaa-tournament

Xavier Musketeers

Reasons the Musketeers advance: Senior Matt Stainbrook put aside his job as an Uber driver to lead the team in scoring and rebounding. The 6-foot-10 center and 6-foot-9 sophomore forward Jalen Reynolds bring the size to the Musketeers lineup. They keep opponents from collecting offensive rebounds. Xavier constantly improved during the course of this season under coach Chris Mack, going from a team that lost to Auburn, UTEP and Long Beach, to one that's a win away from playing for a Final Four berth. Xavier can score too -- it's averaged 126.0 points per 100 possessions according to ESPN Stats and Info, which ranks fourth among Sweet 16 teams.

Reasons the Musketeers go home: The Muskeeters haven't advanced to the Sweet 16 since 2012 and only one of their three seniors was in the rotation then. Guard Dee Davis played just eight minutes when the Musketeers were eliminated by Baylor. Xavier's inexperience in playing this late in the calendar could hurt, especially against Arizona and potentially Wisconsin who were just in the same position advancing to the Elite Eight last year.

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://fivethirtyeight.com/interactives/march-madness-predictions-2015/#mens

Xavier and WVU are both given the least chance to advance (13%) in five thirty eight's bracket since it has been updated.

[NY44]

The Musketeers haven't advanced to the Sweet 16 since 2012

I've been seeing and hearing this a lot throughout the week. It's definitely becoming something of note.

[OTRMUSKIE]

I've been seeing and hearing this a lot throughout the week. It's definitely becoming something of note.

How many teams in the country would like to say they havnt advanced to the sweet 16 since 2012. It's not like it was 1912.

http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-basketball/story/2015-03-23/2015-ncaa-tournament-ranking-the-sweet-16-kentucky-arizona-duke-wisconsin-gonzaga-michigan-state-utah-unc-louisville?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

[Muskied]

Strengths and weaknesses of all 16 teams:

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/tournament/2015/story/_/id/12547272/strengths-weaknesses-sweet-16-teams-ncaa-tournament

Xavier Musketeers

Reasons the Musketeers advance: Senior Matt Stainbrook put aside his job as an Uber driver to lead the team in scoring and rebounding.

wait wait wait wait wait….Matt Stainbrook is an Uber driver??? Holy shit that's big news! Someone get a hold of Ellen.

[powerofX]

How many teams in the country would like to say they havnt advanced to the sweet 16 since 2012. It's not like it was 1912.

http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-basketball/story/2015-03-23/2015-ncaa-tournament-ranking-the-sweet-16-kentucky-arizona-duke-wisconsin-gonzaga-michigan-state-utah-unc-louisville?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Exactly. Zags last one was 2009.

[xeus]

I also find it hilarious that middle aged adults find meth so fascinating. I tell my parents or their friends that I use meth from time to time and they're astounded by it.

Middle aged adults are such squares.

[SemajParlor]

Exactly. Zags last one was 2009.

That's pretty amazing if true.

[xu82]

That's pretty amazing if true.

Not only that, this is just their 3rd since 2002. We have 5 in 8 years, which is pretty amazing.

[D-West & PO-Z]

One Elite 8 ever. 16 years ago.

[Masterofreality]

One Elite 8 ever. 16 years ago.

Every other school seems to be judged on what they do in March....except for the cute Zags. #FreePass

[GoMuskies]

One Elite 8 ever. 16 years ago.

Good to get that in today. Smart.

[Masterofreality]

Good to get that in today. Smart.

Well, even if they are somehow able to surmount that UCLA juggernaut, they'll still be behind Xavier. :smile:

[D-West & PO-Z]

Good to get that in today. Smart.

Not trying to sneak anything in, have no problem, this weekend, saying two ever one now and one 16 years ago, if they make it. I was simply stating what currently is. Again, I think that would shock all casual college basketball fans and a lot of more than casual fans too.

[xu82]

Not trying to sneak anything in, have no problem, this weekend, saying two ever one now and one 16 years ago, if they make it. I was simply stating what currently is. Again, I think that would shock all casual college basketball fans and a lot of more than casual fans too.

I get that. There is a perception that they are somehow ahead of programs like.... say, Xavier. Media attention and regular season rankings would tell you they are a big time sensation/exception and we were, at least until recently, a nice mid-major program. I'm not saying it's not a strong program, but measured in the post-season they barely compare to us. Let's hope we can keep the lead in actual results!

[bobbiemcgee]

http://tucson.com/sports/basketball/college/wildcats/hansen-a-look-at-xavier-from-a-to-x/collection_70cfc06b-4919-51a1-b54b-93dacd50e4d2.html

[GoMuskies]

Well, even if they are somehow able to surmount that UCLA juggernaut, they'll still be behind Xavier. :smile:
Yes, but they'll only be 50% behind instead of 100%

[NY44]

How many teams in the country would like to say they havnt advanced to the sweet 16 since 2012. It's not like it was 1912.

http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-basketball/story/2015-03-23/2015-ncaa-tournament-ranking-the-sweet-16-kentucky-arizona-duke-wisconsin-gonzaga-michigan-state-utah-unc-louisville?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

I'm completely with you, but when people are breaking down this game they keep referencing it.

[Masterofreality]

F$&@k the media.

I'm feeling more confident about this game the more I review Arizona. We are going to SHOCK the WORLD!!!!!

Let's DO THIS!!!!!

[X-Fan]

Decent submission by PDoc this morning: http://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/columnists/paul-daugherty/2015/03/24/chris-mack-xavier-musketeers-basketball-ncaa-mens-basketball-tournament/70378170/

Interesting note about how Miller, and now Mack, want their players to stand in certain spots during timeouts. This ensures the coach know's who's in and playing what position when they draw up a play.

[XU 87]

http://tucson.com/sports/basketball/college/wildcats/arizona-basketball-x-avier-factor-stays-with-miller/article_fa23d0e8-134b-5e26-be1e-f0111a160684.html

[Masterofreality]

http://tucson.com/sports/basketball/college/wildcats/arizona-basketball-x-avier-factor-stays-with-miller/article_fa23d0e8-134b-5e26-be1e-f0111a160684.html

Now, THAT's an article I can endorse....other than the departing press conference being so abjectly stupid.

[Wheelhouse]

http://tucson.com/sports/basketball/college/wildcats/arizona-basketball-x-avier-factor-stays-with-miller/article_fa23d0e8-134b-5e26-be1e-f0111a160684.html

That's good stuff.

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://insider.espn.go.com/chalk/story/_/id/12550565/best-bets-thursday-sweet-16-games-2015-ncaa-tournament

No. 2 Arizona Wildcats vs. No. 6 Xavier Musketeers

Westgate line: Arizona -11
PickCenter consensus pick: 51 percent picked Xavier

Tuley: The CBB Vegas Rankings also had this as an underdog play, and I concur. Don't get me wrong: Arizona is a very good team, but 11 points better than Xavier? I think that's a bit much.

Xavier has played as well as any team so far in the tournament and shot 68 percent from the floor against Georgia State. Center Matt Stainbrook has been a beast, and he's also second on the team in assists, as the Musketeers can beat you inside or outside, just like Arizona. The Wildcats have the better overall talent, with all five starters averaging more than nine points per game, but expect Xavier to try to slow things down (and keep the scoring down) by getting back on defense when Arizona is in transition and mixing in zone defense to try to minimize second-chance points.

I expect Xavier coach Chris Mack to be ready for anything that Arizona tries, as Mack was Arizona coach Sean Miller's top assistant at Xavier before Miller left in 2009. Obviously that works both ways, but I'll take the student (and all those points).

ATS pick: Xavier plus-11* (and under 136)

[Xavgrad08]

As expected Sean said some really nice things about Xavier. The transcript is below. I thought his thoughts on recruiting out west were interesting and we have talked about that on this message board before. There is a neat photo on twitter of Sean, Chris and Sister Rose catching up.

http://www.cincinnati.com/story/xaviersports/2015/03/25/sean-millers-press-conference-transcript/70461786/

I am really glad Sean spent 8 years total at Xavier. He helped contribute to Xavier's success. Xavier Basketball has and will always be bigger than one guy. Tomorrow night should be a lot of fun.

[spursy]

As expected Sean said some really nice things about Xavier. The transcript is below. I thought his thoughts on recruiting out west were interesting and we have talked about that on this message board before. There is a neat photo on twitter of Sean, Chris and Sister Rose catching up.

http://www.cincinnati.com/story/xaviersports/2015/03/25/sean-millers-press-conference-transcript/70461786/

I am really glad Sean spent 8 years total at Xavier. He helped contribute to Xavier's success. Xavier Basketball has and will always be bigger than one guy. Tomorrow night should be a lot of fun.
Yeah, I was really having fun hating on miller but his comments, and the pictures with him, mack and Sr rose, make it difficult. I do hope he leaves the court pissed tomorrow, though.

[X Factor]

http://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/f1914dd334ec0598cc6b86fcb9db95ea035f0743/c=0-24-2840-2159&r=x404&c=534x401/local/-/media/2015/03/24/Cincinnati/Cincinnati/635627841772492382-xuhoops-23-2009.03.20.jpg

[Drew's Crew]

http://collegebasketballtalk.com/

Great article on Xavier's sustained success over the years. Can't wait for the game tonight!

[X-Fan]

http://collegebasketballtalk.com/

Great article on Xavier's sustained success over the years. Can't wait for the game tonight!
Very good article! This is why advancing in the NCAA Tourney is SO important. Instead of running various Ad campaigns and telling recruits stuff, the media does the work for you.

Go X!!!!

[LadyMuskie]

http://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/f1914dd334ec0598cc6b86fcb9db95ea035f0743/c=0-24-2840-2159&r=x404&c=534x401/local/-/media/2015/03/24/Cincinnati/Cincinnati/635627841772492382-xuhoops-23-2009.03.20.jpg

This is an unfortunate picture for both Mack and Miller. Moreso for Miller, but still. . .

[xudash]

Mike will Bon had very nice things to say about Xavier on PTI this evening. What I really liked of his comments was when he talked about Xavier and the legitimate power conference that we are in.

Got a love those Chicago guys.

[Masterofreality]

Hey!

What the F$&@k time does BYU play tonight?

What time?

What?

[paulxu]

Whenever, whatever...you know it's going to be fun to watch.

[GoMuskies]

Hey!

What the F$&@k time does BYU play tonight?

What time?

What?

6pm Pacific. They will be squaring off against San Diego. In baseball.

[chico]

http://insider.espn.go.com/chalk/story/_/id/12550565/best-bets-thursday-sweet-16-games-2015-ncaa-tournament

No. 2 Arizona Wildcats vs. No. 6 Xavier Musketeers

Westgate line: Arizona -11
PickCenter consensus pick: 51 percent picked Xavier

Tuley: The CBB Vegas Rankings also had this as an underdog play, and I concur. Don't get me wrong: Arizona is a very good team, but 11 points better than Xavier? I think that's a bit much.

Xavier has played as well as any team so far in the tournament and shot 68 percent from the floor against Georgia State. Center Matt Stainbrook has been a beast, and he's also second on the team in assists, as the Musketeers can beat you inside or outside, just like Arizona. The Wildcats have the better overall talent, with all five starters averaging more than nine points per game, but expect Xavier to try to slow things down (and keep the scoring down) by getting back on defense when Arizona is in transition and mixing in zone defense to try to minimize second-chance points.

I expect Xavier coach Chris Mack to be ready for anything that Arizona tries, as Mack was Arizona coach Sean Miller's top assistant at Xavier before Miller left in 2009. Obviously that works both ways, but I'll take the student (and all those points).

ATS pick: Xavier plus-11* (and under 136)

Tuley is a pretty knowledgeable guy, but he does typically favor dogs. He rarely if ever bets favorites, but it is good to know that he's on Xavier instead of passing. And the spread is up to 11.5 now.

[Masterofreality]

6pm Pacific. They will be squaring off against San Diego. In baseball.

Wait. What?

B...A...S...E...B...A...L...L is missing a "K" and a "T". Did _LH write that post?

What the Fuck. BYU?

[D-West & PO-Z]

http://insider.espn.go.com/blog/ncbrecruiting/on-the-trail/post?id=13322

Breaks down what next year looks like.

Here is one part:

Trending: Up. That first five will have as much balance and experience as anyone in the Big East, but there is also an abundance of youthful talent that should get more opportunity to come of age next season. Guys such as Sumner, London and Austin Jr. are all uniquely talented and potential impact players. If they can take the next step, Xavier will be deeper, more versatile and more experienced than they were to start this season. The Achilles heel, though, is the point guard position; there really isn’t an experienced floor general on the roster. If the Musketeers get someone to step up the way Davis did this year, following the departure of Semaj Christon, then this is a squad that could very possibly find itself competing atop the Big East a year from now.