NCAA Tournament - Xavier vs. Arizona Game Thread

[American X]

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/77/ab/fb/77abfb362fbb3177a0be9c22d710f06c.jpghttp://boards.sportslogos.net/uploads/profile/photo-34380.png?_r=1391660990

#6 Xavier Musketeers vs. #2 Arizona Wildcats

NCAA Tournament West Regional Semifinal

March 26, 2015, 10:17pm ET

Staples Center (18,118) - Los Angeles, CA

Line: Xavier +11

Television: TBS & Watch Online (http://www.ncaa.com/march-madness-live/game/213)

Radio: 700 WLW (http://www.iheart.com/live/700WLW-1713/?autoplay=true&pname=1209&campid=play_bar&cid=main.html)

GameTracker (http://www.goxavier.com/gametracker/launch/gt_mbaskbl.html?event=1419910&school=xavi&sport=mbaskbl&camefrom=&startschool=&)

GoXavier Tournament Central (http://www.goxavier.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/xavi-15-tourney-central.html)

Enquirer Previews (http://www.cincinnati.com/sports/xavier/)

AP Preview (http://www.foxsports.com/college-basketball/story/coaches-miller-mack-get-reunion-when-arizona-faces-xavier-032515)

Live Chat (http://webchat.freenode.net/?channels=XavierHoops)

[azgreg]

That's not Wilbur. This is Wilbur.

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm260/azgreg22/Misc/Wilbur_zpszizmxxkf.jpg (http://s298.photobucket.com/user/azgreg22/media/Misc/Wilbur_zpszizmxxkf.jpg.html)

[Woodburn]

That's not Wilbur. This is Wilbur.

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm260/azgreg22/Misc/Wilbur_zpszizmxxkf.jpg (http://s298.photobucket.com/user/azgreg22/media/Misc/Wilbur_zpszizmxxkf.jpg.html)
Did this turn into some kind of subreddit fetish forum? Is that really a cat wearing assless chaps?

[Juice]

Did this turn into some kind of subreddit fetish forum? Is that really a cat wearing assless chaps?

He's wearing a costume that can be seen in Magic Mike.

[azgreg]

Did this turn into some kind of subreddit fetish forum? Is that really a cat wearing assless chaps?

Don't be a hater. :biggrin:

[Masterofreality]

This is a national narrative changing game for both Xavier and Chris Mack. F$&@k the media.

No, not a chip, but a f$&@king concrete block on the shoulder boys. Enough disrespect. Arizona played in the 6th ranked league this year. That is A10-esque. We played in the second ranked league. WE'RE the big boys.

We have talent, skill and strength. We have hungry kids. We're season and Tournament toughened. We have a coach who has been there and knows how to prepare.

Let's DO THIS!!!!!!!

[paulxu]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4025/4264043948_fb9af75a54.jpg

[Muskie]

Legit question. I know fans hold Miller in ill-regard for leaving for Arizona (to me at least he did it the right way unlike his predecessor to the East). Is this a big game for the Players in terms of revenge or payback? It's a big game because it's the Sweet 16, but I wonder if the fans have more buy in to the anti-Miller theme than the actual staff or Players.

[Ledgewood]

Did this turn into some kind of subreddit fetish forum? Is that really a cat wearing assless chaps?

All chaps are assless.

[markchal]

Legit question. I know fans hold Miller in ill-regard for leaving for Arizona (to me at least he did it the right way unlike his predecessor to the East). Is this a big game for the Players in terms of revenge or payback? It's a big game because it's the Sweet 16, but I wonder if the fans have more buy in to the anti-Miller theme than the actual staff or Players.

I think it's mainly an issue for the fans. I don't think any of the players were recruited by Miller. If this game happened in year 1 or 2 of Mack's regime, obviously it would mean a lot more to the guys who felt perhaps abandoned, but I think to our guys this is just a big-time game to get to the Elite 8.

[Xville]

I think it's mainly an issue for the fans. I don't think any of the players were recruited by Miller. If this game happened in year 1 or 2 of Mack's regime, obviously it would mean a lot more to the guys who felt perhaps abandoned, but I think to our guys this is just a big-time game to get to the Elite 8.

To me and without knowing any insider knowledge, I doubt the players really give a hoot. To them, it is just a chance to get closer to the final four. To some of the fans, it seems there is an anti sentiment toward Miller which I don't really understand. The guy did amazing things for us while he was here and he decided to take over a Top 10 program with great resources and a much better climate. I think its silly that anyone has a problem with that but just my opinion.

[Masterofreality]

To me and without knowing any insider knowledge, I doubt the players really give a hoot. To them, it is just a chance to get closer to the final four. To some of the fans, it seems there is an anti sentiment toward Miller which I don't really understand. The guy did amazing things for us while he was here and he decided to take over a Top 10 program with great resources and a much better climate. I think its silly that anyone has a problem with that but just my opinion.

Just don't "hero worship" the guy. We can be a Top 10 program, but he went against his wife's wishes and went west anyway. He chased the glitter and gold. So be it. Some are more loyal than that.

Yep, did a fine job when he was here, but he left us in the desert dust. Dead to me.

[Juice]

Legit question. I know fans hold Miller in ill-regard for leaving for Arizona (to me at least he did it the right way unlike his predecessor to the East). Is this a big game for the Players in terms of revenge or payback? It's a big game because it's the Sweet 16, but I wonder if the fans have more buy in to the anti-Miller theme than the actual staff or Players.

I don't think it's anything to the players. None of them know Sean.

[GoMuskies]

Dee Davis was probably recruited by Miller. He's probably the only one who cares even a little bit about that angle.

[TUclutch]

Dee Davis was probably recruited by Miller. He's probably the only one who cares even a little bit about that angle.

Guarantee Dee doesn't care at all. Won't even cross his mind

[XUFan09]

Dee Davis was probably recruited by Miller. He's probably the only one who cares even a little bit about that angle.
Was he? He would have been finishing up his sophomore year of high school, so maybe, but I don't seem to recall him being on the radar yet.

[nuts4xu]

This is Mack's 6th season, while I am sure all the players are aware Miller once coached at Xavier, none of our current roster has had much of (if any) relationship with Sean Miller.

Coach Miller was a great fit for Xavier, and vice versa. I respect and appreciate what he did for our university, and I have no issues with him in any way. He is a fantastic coach, and led us to our only 30 win season, and half of our Elite 8 appearances. You can't take that away from him.

That said, I want to beat his team by double digits tomorrow night, and send him back to Tuscon to begin his off season.

[nasdadjr]

Master I don't understand your logic. At the time xavier was in A-10 and paying okay but not great for his profession. A big time program comes along and wants him how can you blame him for going. I don't know your line of work but if bigger company or whatever came calling offering you more than double your salary a great climate and the chance to literally climb to the absolute top of your profession you wouldn't do it cause of loyalty? His decision to leave was about loyalty. Loyalty to himself to climb to the pinnacle of his chosen profession and loyalty to his family to secure their financial security for generations to come. I'd make that choice 100 out of 100 times and I'm sure you would to

[SemajParlor]

Dee Davis was probably recruited by Miller. He's probably the only one who cares even a little bit about that angle.

Nope. This team is all Mack's guys.

[XUFan09]

Master I don't understand your logic. At the time xavier was in A-10 and paying okay but not great for his profession. A big time program comes along and wants him how can you blame him for going. I don't know your line of work but if bigger company or whatever came calling offering you more than double your salary a great climate and the chance to literally climb to the absolute top of your profession you wouldn't do it cause of loyalty? His decision to leave was about loyalty. Loyalty to himself to climb to the pinnacle of his chosen profession and loyalty to his family to secure their financial security for generations to come. I'd make that choice 100 out of 100 times and I'm sure you would to

Yup. Before delving into any of the other reasons, the recruiting bump alone is a big thing. He consistently recruits and gets commits from players that usually wouldn't even consider Xavier. There's a bit of overlap in the two schools' recruiting because of the level that Xavier has reached, but Xavier doesn't have great access to that top level, the level of player around which one builds championships. Obviously, winning a championship is still hard, but the likelihood is significantly improved there.

[Muskie1000]

I don't have a problem with the guy leaving - I mean I was upset - but why did he have to slap us on the way out. He could have left and just said I'm going because its more money, blah, blah, blah and left it at that. But to infer that we were a small program (buick-lexus) was just wrong. Ok so we haven't reached the pinnacle yet but we are well on our way and he could have left it alone.

[Masterofreality]

Dee Davis was probably recruited by Miller. He's probably the only one who cares even a little bit about that angle.


Guarantee Dee doesn't care at all. Won't even cross his mind


Was he? He would have been finishing up his sophomore year of high school, so maybe, but I don't seem to recall him being on the radar yet.

Nope. All Travis "Steal" on the recruitment.

[Masterofreality]

Master I don't understand your logic. At the time xavier was in A-10 and paying okay but not great for his profession. A big time program comes along and wants him how can you blame him for going. I don't know your line of work but if bigger company or whatever came calling offering you more than double your salary a great climate and the chance to literally climb to the absolute top of your profession you wouldn't do it cause of loyalty? His decision to leave was about loyalty. Loyalty to himself to climb to the pinnacle of his chosen profession and loyalty to his family to secure their financial security for generations to come. I'd make that choice 100 out of 100 times and I'm sure you would to

No I wouldn't...especially since the year before he left he stood on the podium at the All For One Golf outing, auctioned off a yellow CBS Sports banner that he had taken from the arena in Phoenix, and swore to the gathering that he would lead Xavier to a Final Four...and that banner was his reminder of the commitment. He also went straight against his wife Amy's wishes.

Then, on top of that, he doesn't have the scruples to leave Kevin Parrom alone. Xavier in a classy move, let him go, but that is blatant BS.

Look man, chase the glitter and gold if you want but enough with professing your affinity for the place you're leaving. You're leaving it after all, because of some perceived deficiency. Everybody has their own priorities. Whatever. I'm a little more loyal and hold my family's opinion in higher regard. I've had plenty of chances to move at a higher salary, but I and my family decided that the quality of life and our comfort level outweighed a few shekels that we would get for pulling up stakes, changing schools, making my kids go through hard adjustment periods, etc. I guess Miller himself was BS-ing about the Xavier Final Four since as soon as someone threw a bunch of Jack at him, he took off...to a place that was in some turmoil, and in a state with zero high school basketball talent.

Just like old girlfriends, old coaches are dead to me.

[markchal]

Then, on top of that, he doesn't have the scruples to leave Kevin Parrom alone. Xavier in a classy move, let him go, but that is blatant BS.


I think this is the part I disagree with most. Some guys commit more to a coach than a school, and we have benefited greatly from scooping up players left behind after their coach leaves (I know we got Blueitt because Stevens left and I'm pretty sure that's why we got Holloway and Crawford from Indiana).

I also sort of disagree with the old coaches are dead to me post. Prosser left Xavier, but I never held that against him and always thought of him fondly. Same with Miller. There may have been some guy in-between, but I think those teams had a player-coach (Lionel Chalmers).

[Masterofreality]

Ok, I'll amend. I love Pete. Reason why was because it was clearly a step up for him..and he had a legit family reason to go back to the Northeast. He had also grown tired of fighting with the local Cincy media for exposure vs. Satan across town. I missed Pete, but I wasn't pissed at Pete.

The fact that XU was making Elite 8's and assuredly moving into a higher class of basketball makes it much more murky in the raccoon's case.

[THRILLHOUSE]

Ok, I'll amend. I love Pete. Reason why was because it was clearly a step up for him..and he had a legit family reason to go back to the Northeast. He had also grown tired of fighting with the local Cincy media for exposure vs. Satan across town. I missed Pete, but I wasn't pissed at Pete.

The fact that XU was making Elite 8's and assuredly moving into a higher class of basketball makes it much more murky in the raccoon's case.

Not really. Arizona is a Top 10 program and X can never match the amount of $ that Arizona can pay him. Yeah it sucked when he left, but really it was a no-brainer.

[muskiefan82]

swore to the gathering that he would lead Xavier to a Final Four...


Perhaps he still can by helping X to the Elite Eight......

[Masterofreality]

Not really. Arizona is a Top 10 program and X can never match the amount of $ that Arizona can pay him. Yeah it sucked when he left, but really it was a no-brainer.

Wasn't a Top 10 program when he left. Kevin O'Nucklehead had seen to that.

The bold part is true though. #ThirtyPiecesOfSilver

And I'm really done with rehashing a 6 year old argument. Let's just beat all of their sorry asses.

[Xville]

No I wouldn't...especially since the year before he left he stood on the podium at the All For One Golf outing, auctioned off a yellow CBS Sports banner that he had taken from the arena in Phoenix, and swore to the gathering that he would lead Xavier to a Final Four...and that banner was his reminder of the commitment. He also went straight against his wife Amy's wishes.

Then, on top of that, he doesn't have the scruples to leave Kevin Parrom alone. Xavier in a classy move, let him go, but that is blatant BS.

Look man, chase the glitter and gold if you want but enough with professing your affinity for the place you're leaving. You're leaving it after all, because of some perceived deficiency. Everybody has their own priorities. Whatever. I'm a little more loyal and hold my family's opinion in higher regard. I've had plenty of chances to move at a higher salary, but I and my family decided that the quality of life and our comfort level outweighed a few shekels that we would get for pulling up stakes, changing schools, making my kids go through hard adjustment periods, etc. I guess Miller himself was BS-ing about the Xavier Final Four since as soon as someone threw a bunch of Jack at him, he took off...to a place that was in some turmoil, and in a state with zero high school basketball talent.

Just like old girlfriends, old coaches are dead to me.

I'm sure that there were plenty of other teams that threw a bunch of jack at him, just like other companies have thrown you some jack, but if you honestly believe it was just about the money that is pretty naive. Everything he said the year before, he probably meant at the time...however even in his wildest dreams did he believe that he was going to get offered by a top ten program with unlimited resources, a terrific climate and yeah better money. I'm not even sure what "in a state with zero high school talent" has to do with anything. Arizona recruits nationally, and there is this state called California that is pretty big that is right next door.

It's not like he went to Wake Forest or Providence like Prosser and Gillen did, he went to freaking Arizona...an elite basketball program.

[GoMuskies]

I reserve the right to hate whoever I want for whatever goddamned reason I feel like. And I don't want that asshole Miller anywhere near the Final Four ever. Hell, I wish they'd refuse to sell him a ticket to watch us beat Wichita State in this year's National Semifinals!

[LadyMuskie]

This is Mack's 6th season, while I am sure all the players are aware Miller once coached at Xavier, none of our current roster has had much of (if any) relationship with Sean Miller.

Coach Miller was a great fit for Xavier, and vice versa. I respect and appreciate what he did for our university, and I have no issues with him in any way. He is a fantastic coach, and led us to our only 30 win season, and half of our Elite 8 appearances. You can't take that away from him.

That said, I want to beat his team by double digits tomorrow night, and send him back to Tuscon to begin his off season.

Exactly!

[GoMuskies]

Was he? He would have been finishing up his sophomore year of high school, so maybe, but I don't seem to recall him being on the radar yet.

You guys are all probably right that Miller was not involved with Davis then. I just knew that he was in the same class as Wells and that Wells most certainly was recruited by Miller at Xavier.

[Masterofreality]

I'm sure that there were plenty of other teams that threw a bunch of jack at him, just like other companies have thrown you some jack, but if you honestly believe it was just about the money that is pretty naive. Everything he said the year before, he probably meant at the time...however even in his wildest dreams did he believe that he was going to get offered by a top ten program with unlimited resources, a terrific climate and yeah better money. I'm not even sure what "in a state with zero high school talent" has to do with anything. Arizona recruits nationally, and there is this state called California that is pretty big that is right next door.

It's not like he went to Wake Forest or Virginia like Prosser and Gillen did, he went to freaking Arizona...an elite basketball program.

If "Arizona" recruited nationally, why did he have to bring his New York boy Book with him? Shouldn't the aura of the school itself be enough?

I guess not. Oh, and about that "national" recruiting for Point Guards. Hmmmmmm.

[XUFan09]

If "Arizona" recruited nationally, why did he have to bring his New York boy Book with him? Shouldn't the aura of the school itself be enough?

I guess not. Oh, and about that "national" recruiting for Point Guards. Hmmmmmm.

Since when did a national recruiting presence mean that a coach doesn't want an assistant with ties to a recruiting hotbed? The bolded part is a strawman. And since when did a national recruiting presence mean that you don't have to sometimes turn to transfers?

[xu82]

Perhaps he still can by helping X to the Elite Eight......

So this is all part of his clever plan? I like it!!!

[waggy]

There's an army of strawmen in here.

Let's talk about the game.

[Wheelhouse]

I reserve the right to hate whoever I want for whatever goddamned reason I feel like. And I don't want that asshole Miller anywhere near the Final Four ever. Hell, I wish they'd refuse to sell him a ticket to watch us beat Wichita State in this year's National Semifinals!

I don't agree with the sentiment in this post but I thoroughly enjoyed it nonetheless.

[Xville]

There's an army of strawmen in here.

Let's talk about the game.

I wrote this in another thread but I think it is probably more applicable here:

There are three things that we need to do to beat Arizona....

1.) Outrebound them which is going to be a monumental task but we do have the size to accomplish this

2.) Find a way to at least slow down if not stop Stanley Johnson. I am guessing that Remy is going to pull this assignment and he is going to be giving up about 3-4 inches and probably 30 pounds or so. Remy will have to have the best defensive performance of his life

3.) Don't let Gabe York get hot. He is probably going to be coming off the bench, as he has since the middle of the season. We can not let him be that sparkplug.

Do these three things, and we should march on. All three are pretty difficult to do, but that's why they play the games.

[GoMuskies]

There are three things that we need to do to beat Arizona....



I think we have to hit a high percentage from behind the arc as well. If we get open shots, they have to go down. Arizona is not going to be easy to score on inside.

[Xville]

I think we have to hit a high percentage from behind the arc as well. If we get open shots, they have to go down. Arizona is not going to be easy to score on inside.

yeah just realized that all of mine centered around the defensive side of the floor....4.) put the shiny orange spherical thing thru the basket a lot.

[THRILLHOUSE]

I wrote this in another thread but I think it is probably more applicable here:

There are three things that we need to do to beat Arizona....

1.) Outrebound them which is going to be a monumental task but we do have the size to accomplish this

2.) Find a way to at least slow down if not stop Stanley Johnson. I am guessing that Remy is going to pull this assignment and he is going to be giving up about 3-4 inches and probably 30 pounds or so. Remy will have to have the best defensive performance of his life

3.) Don't let Gabe York get hot. He is probably going to be coming off the bench, as he has since the middle of the season. We can not let him be that sparkplug.

Do these three things, and we should march on. All three are pretty difficult to do, but that's why they play the games.

I'd also add limit turnovers. Sure that's true against any opponent, but especially so in this game. Can't turn the ball over as much as they did in the first half vs Ga State. Turn the ball over and let them score in transition, we're toast.

[XUFan09]

I wrote this in another thread but I think it is probably more applicable here:

There are three things that we need to do to beat Arizona....

1.) Outrebound them which is going to be a monumental task but we do have the size to accomplish this

2.) Find a way to at least slow down if not stop Stanley Johnson. I am guessing that Remy is going to pull this assignment and he is going to be giving up about 3-4 inches and probably 30 pounds or so. Remy will have to have the best defensive performance of his life

3.) Don't let Gabe York get hot. He is probably going to be coming off the bench, as he has since the middle of the season. We can not let him be that sparkplug.

Do these three things, and we should march on. All three are pretty difficult to do, but that's why they play the games.

Though he could burn us when he's in, I hope York sees notable playing time tomorrow, because our wings can score against him much more easily than against the starters. You've already hit upon this a little bit down, but Xavier is not going to win without a great offensive performance. If Xavier wins, it's probably because they scored 1.20 points per possession while giving up 1.15.

[American X]

Just like old girlfriends, old coaches are dead to me.

Aha! So you admit you sent them to their demise!

Will this hold up in court? Muskie? xeus? XU87?

[SemajParlor]

I wrote this in another thread but I think it is probably more applicable here:

There are three things that we need to do to beat Arizona....

1.) Outrebound them which is going to be a monumental task but we do have the size to accomplish this

2.) Find a way to at least slow down if not stop Stanley Johnson. I am guessing that Remy is going to pull this assignment and he is going to be giving up about 3-4 inches and probably 30 pounds or so. Remy will have to have the best defensive performance of his life

3.) Don't let Gabe York get hot. He is probably going to be coming off the bench, as he has since the middle of the season. We can not let him be that sparkplug.


Do these three things, and we should march on. All three are pretty difficult to do, but that's why they play the games.

You forgot to add: Have JP Macura turn into Gordon Hayward.

[muskiefan82]

I do not want to see JP on the floor flopping because an opposing player was in his vicinity. That would sicken me.

[xu82]

I do not want to see JP on the floor flopping because an opposing player was in his vicinity. That would sicken me.

ME TOO!

(Unless he drew the charge and made the FT's at the buzzer to send us to the Elight Eight - that I might have to forgive.)

[Masterofreality]

Aha! So you admit you sent them to their demise!

Will this hold up in court? Muskie? xeus? XU87?

You are obviously confusing me with DC Muskie's trunk.

[GoMuskies]

You are obviously confusing me with DC Muskie's trunk.

As if DC Muskie has ever had a girlfriend.

[muskiefan82]

ME TOO!

(Unless he drew the charge and made the FT's at the buzzer to send us to the Elight Eight - that I might have to forgive.)

Agreed. I would forgive that.

[XMuskieFTW]

Come on. Let's face it. TJ McConnell does not beat xavier.

[Xville]

With the way college basketball is...if someone can find a way to knock off kentucky, anyone left can win this whole thing...might as well be us. Hell look at UConn last year

[X-band '01]

Come on. Let's face it. TJ McConnell does not beat xavier.

Nor former Temple player Rondae Hollis-Jefferson.

[azgreg]

Nor former Temple player Rondae Hollis-Jefferson.

Excuse me?

[GoMuskies]

Excuse me?

Perhaps in a former life. You don't know!

[XUFan09]

Nor former Temple player Rondae Hollis-Jefferson.
That was his older brother Rahlir.

[bobbiemcgee]

Nobody with two last names usually does that well against us.

[Xavier]

Does Zona double much? Wondering if Stain will get man to man d finally?

[xavierj]

Come on. Let's face it. TJ McConnell does not beat xavier.

True. He lost 78-50 and 71-63 in his two meetings against X. They own him.

[xavierj]

Does Zona double much? Wondering if Stain will get man to man d finally?

Sean Miller will not double Matt.

[bobbiemcgee]

That's not Wilbur. This is Wilbur.

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm260/azgreg22/Misc/Wilbur_zpszizmxxkf.jpg (http://s298.photobucket.com/user/azgreg22/media/Misc/Wilbur_zpszizmxxkf.jpg.html)

No Steel ballz.... as a matter fact....no balls

[JAPER]

I don't think they will double very much either. Matt will have to pick his spots and be patient against Tarczewski...7'0" 245. Matt will have to use his leverage and craftiness to win this very important battle in the paint. If Matt is scoring well in the 1st half, then they may begin to drop down more, which then puts the pressure on the help defense and then X to shoot well from the outside (mentioned several times in this thread).

On the other side of the court, if Matt gets in foul trouble, it could be a long night. I don't think he will and I believe he will have a game like he did against NC State last year....an excellent personal outing compared to the rest of the team that night.

[LadyMuskie]

Did this turn into some kind of subreddit fetish forum? Is that really a cat wearing assless chaps?

And they named it Wilbur?!?! Wilbur is supposed to strike fear into Arizona's opponents. Wilbur.

[GoMuskies]

Wilbur is supposed to strike fear into Arizona's opponents.

With this as one of our mascots, I'm not sure we should be going there.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4074/4819000479_2020c62eb9.jpg

I guess the Blob might creep opponents out a bit.

[LadyMuskie]

First of all, that's not our main mascot. Secondly, anybody really know WTF the Blob is? No. Third, there's an entire genre of horror songs, movies, etc. devoted to how scary blobs are.

Wilbur isn't even the most remembered Wright brother, for God's sake.

[waggy]

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

[waggy]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGqbgPESze4

[azgreg]

With this as one of our mascots, I'm not sure we should be going there.

https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4074/4819000479_2020c62eb9.jpg

I guess the Blob might creep opponents out a bit.

WTF is that?

[azgreg]

I don't know if you guys are interested or not so.........

In the mid 80's Wilbur's costume was becoming a bit worn so the university ordered another one. The new one turned out to be a bit feminine. Instead of returning it they repaired Wilbur's and kept the new one as well and named her Wilma. They were married on November 21st 1986.

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm260/azgreg22/Misc/wedding_zpsdf2aimkz.jpg (http://s298.photobucket.com/user/azgreg22/media/Misc/wedding_zpsdf2aimkz.jpg.html)

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm260/azgreg22/Misc/wilburwilma_zpsc4oqwhuk.jpg (http://s298.photobucket.com/user/azgreg22/media/Misc/wilburwilma_zpsc4oqwhuk.jpg.html)

The kids adore them.

Wilma got a little exposure during one of the This Is Sports Center commercials staring Bucky from Wisconsin.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-lpaWj7qZ0

[paulxu]

WTF is that?

It's my disguise when I meet sideline reporters.


https://youtu.be/znyH_BIZl9I

[azgreg]

It's my disguise when I meet sideline reporters.


https://youtu.be/znyH_BIZl9I

How long before you received the restraining order?

I thought you were going to show me something like this:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_jOd9ohHGE

[xu82]

WTF is that?

THAT, is how we frighten small children who have learned to cope with clowns. After the Blue Blob they step up to mimes. It's a gradual process.

[azgreg]

THAT, is how we frighten small children who have learned to cope with clowns. After the Blue Blob they step up to mimes. It's a gradual process.

Gotta have a plan.

[xu82]

Gotta have a plan.

Yep, the plan makes them strong and loyal. Sometimes a little crazy, but I think most programs have some of that. And mimes fear us!

[azgreg]

Mimes are creepy.

[xu82]

Mimes are creepy.

Yes, indeed. But a fully indoctrinated Xavier fan can scare them away. We're good to have around.

[xudash]

First of all, that's not our main mascot. Secondly, anybody really know WTF the Blob is? No. Third, there's an entire genre of horror songs, movies, etc. devoted to how scary blobs are.

Wilbur isn't even the most remembered Wright brother, for God's sake.

Plus the Blob ate Jim Kelly's sportcoat on SportCenter. That probably creeped him out a little bit. He lost rock, paper scissors to the Blob and paid the price.

[Strange Brew]

And they named it Wilbur?!?! Wilbur is supposed to strike fear into Arizona's opponents. Wilbur.

And I thought this guy was Wilbur. Can't believe there's more than one.

1694

[X-band '01]

Excuse me?


That was his older brother Rahlir.

Dammit, I've been saboraged again! All the Hollis-Jeffersons sound alike.

[BMoreX]

X with a fair amount of publicity on Sportscenter this morning. Mack was in studio for a bit as well:

[American X]

That's not Wilbur. This is Wilbur.

http://content.sportslogos.net/logos/30/603/full/2648_arizona_wildcats-mascot-2003.pnghttp://cdn-2.itsnature.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/firecat.jpg

[D-West & PO-Z]

X with a fair amount of publicity on Sportscenter this morning. Mack was in studio for a bit as well:

He was in Bristol???

[muskiefan82]

http://cdn-2.itsnature.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/firecat.jpg

Mascots who were separated at birth.......

[nuts4xu]

He was in Bristol???

They have a studio in LA too.

[D-West & PO-Z]

They have a studio in LA too.

Oh yeah, duh.

[LadyMuskie]

3 hours and counting . . .

[xu82]

tick....

[xu82]

tock...

[LadyMuskie]

Jordan Crawford is in the Staples Center tonight!!

[waggy]

The exclamation points are flying tonight!!!!

[paulxu]

I guess the young kids like 'em.
Me, I favor our school colors over the black uniforms.

But...if they bring us the win, I'm VERY open to changing my mind.

[X-band '01]

Meanwhile, Carolina has a 2-point lead over Wisconsin at halftime of the first game at Staples.

[Xavier]

The ticker has xavier tip at 9:57. Is that right or is it 10:17?

[X-band '01]

Either 9:57 or 20 minutes after UNC-Wisconsin, whichever is later.

[paulxu]

Jeez, ND is pounding the Shockers.

[paulxu]

It's Muskie Time!

[LadyMuskie]

25 minutes!

[GoMuskies]

Let's do this!

[Xville]

In other news wvu is about to take their beating. They keep it within 20 I'll be surprised..don't talk shit against a team that is way more talented than you are...they don't need extra motivation.

[Wheelhouse]

10:26 tip. Game on.

[xu82]

In other news wvu is about to take their beating. They keep it within 20 I'll be surprised..don't talk shit against a team that is way more talented than you are...they don't need extra motivation.

That was a serious boneheaded move. They gave away any slim chance they had. Freshman need to shut the hell up.

[XUPhilly04]

WV may have more fouls than points at the half.

[markchal]

Is this game ever going to start?

[Wheelhouse]

Our game might surprisingly get a solid viewing audience. WVU is getting boat raced right now.

[spursy]

Our game might surprisingly get a solid viewing audience. WVU is getting boat raced right now.
Ugliest game of the tournament so far!

[KabeX]

You gotta like all these Buick commercials. The rest of the country knows not the irony.

[KabeX]

And of course this is sponsored by Lexus. This is great stuff.

[atljar]

Time to zip up these Wilburs. Let's roll!

[nasdadjr]

Over under right now WV 15.5 points for the half who wants action lol

[D-West & PO-Z]

AHHHH I'm sooo nervous!!! Gametime!!!

[paulxu]

Me too.

[Wheelhouse]

Uh, power difficulties?

[Blue Blooded-05]

Work done - check
Beer in hand - check
No AM meetings tomorrow - check

Let's do this!!!

[spursy]

Thank god I'm off tomorrow.

[XMuskieFTW]

No matter what happens I won't be able to sleep until like two hours after this game. Let's see how much I get done at work tomorrow!

[paulxu]

Well crap. Barkley has already called the game for Arizona.

Screw that. Beat 'em so Sir Charles has to eat crow.

[nasdadjr]

Arizona cheerleaders get an A plus

[paulxu]

Playing WAY too lose. Must tighten up or we'll get blown out.

[Wheelhouse]

We need to put Jalen in immediately.

[nasdadjr]

If we can't even get a simple out of bounds call that is obvious we will struggle

[paulxu]

Why Dee....WHY?

[mistabeecee41]

Gotta get myles in there over tre. We should be up right now.

[Blue Blooded-05]

HJ down... That didn't look good. Hope for the best for him.

[Wheelhouse]

Not a great start but not horrible. We need to clean it up, tough, or they're going to run us.

[Masterofreality]

Would rather have JP in there than Trevon. Trevon looks overwhelmed and nervous.

Taking quick shots and not even thinking of going to the hoop.

[Emp]

R-e-l-a-x. We stay in this game,we can win.

That looked ugly.

[paulxu]

Why Dee....WHY?

Bump

[BMoreX]

Good lord that dunk

[Masterofreality]

There we go!!!

[paulxu]

JP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Wheelhouse]

Here we go.

[Blue Blooded-05]

Eff Yeah!! I'm loving this lineup with the 1-3-1... Now comes Sean's adjustments....

[XfansinKy]

Looks like somebody besides Arizona came here to win too

[nasdadjr]

I've said it for a month Jalen gonna make a name for himself this tournament. Whoever said put in jp had a great point I think he is better than Trevon right now

[Emp]

Yeah, bed feed for the dunk

[paulxu]

We make a couple of those 3's and we're ahead.

[markchal]

Come on dee

[Wheelhouse]

Jimmy made a layup!

[nasdadjr]

Regardless I'm glad Jefferson is walking and not seriously hurt. I've had 3 acl reconstructions and don't wish knee problems on anyone

[BMoreX]

Rhttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/26/b80470a986d24685d802fa2d18068c90.jpg

[nasdadjr]

Where is that pic

[XfansinKy]

Rhttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/26/b80470a986d24685d802fa2d18068c90.jpg

Nice

[paulxu]

We've got to hit a 3 or we're not in this.

[markchal]

and it cant be Farr chucking

[markchal]

Farr struggling mightily

[paulxu]

8:12 Uber mention.

[paulxu]

Do we have anyone tonight who can hit a 3. We really need it.

[markchal]

These refs need to call it consistently. We're getting hammered under the basket but they call everything the other way.

[Masterofreality]

More Jalen, Less Jimmy.

More JP, less Trevon.

[Blue Blooded-05]

8:12 Uber mention.

Yeah, I lost the over/under.

Still haven't seen Sean "whooping cough" Miller hack up a lung yet though

[Wheelhouse]

Stain took an inadvertant elbow to the chops.

I think we need to go Stain and Jalen together.

[nasdadjr]

Xavier can play with Arizona down low which I didn't think we could do. Bigs stepping up we need our guards to fing show up now

[xavierj]

Stanley Johnson the difference so far. Hope he goes cold or it good get stretched out.

[BandAid]

Where is that pic

gallagher

[Masterofreality]

These refs need to call it consistently. We're getting hammered under the basket but they call everything the other way.

Letting 'em play. No free throws either way.

[LadyMuskie]

Yeah, I lost the over/under.

Still haven't seen Sean "whooping cough" Miller hack up a lung yet though

It's the dry air. It's good for tuberculosis.

[drudy23]

Does jalen have 2 fouls? Wtf isn't he in the game?

[nasdadjr]

Refs definitely letting them play I like it

[Wheelhouse]

How is that Arizona's ball?

[paulxu]

No 3's and sloppy passes. I'm dying here!

COME ON MUSKIES!

[nasdadjr]

No perimeter game we still in it come on guards

[Masterofreality]

Every shot that Trevon is taking is short. Nerves. get JP in.

[nasdadjr]

We got nba announcers with wannabe nba refs allowing nba contact. I love it

[Masterofreality]

This is not a good lineup in there now.

[markchal]

Every shot that Trevon is taking is short. Nerves. get JP in.

yeah we really need him to either hit his shots or stop putting them up

[markchal]

Farr what are you doing???

[drudy23]

Farr needs to find the bench.

[paulxu]

Wonder why we can't shake free for clean 3's like they do?

Had some early, but no looks for the last 5 minutes.

[XMuskieFTW]

No Larry and less Farr please.

[Wheelhouse]

If we start to hit some 3s we're right there. Farr has to be on the bench. This is a Stain and Jalen game.

[mistabeecee41]

About 90 games into his career james farr has decided he's going to become a dribble driving expert.

[X Factor]

Farr should not be playing

[nasdadjr]

Need Remy myles or Dee to do something damn it

[xavierj]

If they keep hitting 3's xavier has no chance.

[Masterofreality]

Trevon really needs to mature in the offseason. It's pretty clear that these moments are too big for him at this point. He'll get it, but he's giving us literally nothing now.

JP is much more confident.

[Emp]

Ah, you do know the 1-3-1 gives up 3s?

[X Factor]

We.HAVE to start knocking down some threes

[Xavgrad08]

We need more from Trevon. Stanley Johnson has hurt us so far. Crucial time right before the half.

[Wheelhouse]

So far Dee, JP, Remy, Stain and Jalen came to ball. We're right there. Let's keep pounding it inside and hit the outside shots when we're open.

[paulxu]

Damn I'm proud of this team. Get some 3's and we can do this thing.

[nasdadjr]

Bad end but he'll we only got to win one 20 minute game let's go!!!!

[Wheelhouse]

Here's what's crazy - we weren't even close to playing lights out that half. This is anyone's ballgame.

[nasdadjr]

Right now I'm having visions of end of osu type ending this game is eerily similar let's hope for different ending

[Emp]

Trevon really needs to mature in the offseason. It's pretty clear that these moments are too big for him at this point. He'll get it, but he's giving us literally nothing now.

JP is much more confident.

Harsh. Maturity? He's got to make some buckets FOR US TO WIN.

I'll take tied with no made 3s.

We're rebounding well.

[X Factor]

We played ok and it's a tie ball game. 0 three's made in the first half!!

We can do this!!!!

[waggy]

#55 bothers McConnell.

[KabeX]

I'll take it. Now the second half is ...

WINNING TIME!

[Wheelhouse]

If you told me we wouldn't hit one 3 in the first half I would've figured DOOM. These guys are ballin'.

[Masterofreality]

How can we not get the ball to Matt Stainbrook on that last play?

I HATE that we just have our PG. Dribble, dribble, dribble without an offensive set. Missed opportunity, but good half.

If they keep hitting threes, give them credit. But I don't think they will.

I like our chances.

[nasdadjr]

If its close you know xavier will have Aaron Rodgers billy crystal and Jack Nicholson cheering for them

[Wheelhouse]

Right now I'm having visions of end of osu type ending this game is eerily similar let's hope for different ending

Dude, take that shit out of here.

[Blue Blooded-05]

God, I love seeing the looks on the faces of athletically superior defenders when The Stain Train befuddles them with a 'YMCA 40 & over league' post move

[Masterofreality]

Harsh. Maturity? He's got to make some buckets FOR US TO WIN.

I'll take tied with no made 3s.

We're rebounding well.

You make buckets by shooting confidently. If you're not mentally strong enough (more growth required), you shoot nervous...and short. Period.

JP is different.

[xsteve1]

X needs to hit about 4 to 5 3's in the 2nd half.

[nasdadjr]

They only hit 3 threes it's not like Arizona was lights out. We just gotta get a few to fall

[Wheelhouse]

Can't believe Zona isn't going to Stanley Johnson more. He was efficient in that 1st half.

[BMoreX]

0-7 3. Need to change that

[nasdadjr]

Stain getting some love at half time

[paulxu]

Bite me Charles.

[X Factor]

They only hit 3 threes it's not like Arizona was lights out. We just gotta get a few to fall

4, but who's counting?

[nasdadjr]

I want stain tearing paint off the walls at his guards at halftime telling them to step the f up

[xavierj]

You make buckets by shooting confidently. If you're not mentally strong enough (more growth required), you shoot nervous...and short. Period.

JP is different.

Bingo. You can tell lack of confidence when you are short on everything.

[nasdadjr]

It was 4 I'm on my phone so we're gonna blame that on the fat finger lol

[XUFan09]

God, I love seeing the looks on the faces of athletically superior defenders when The Stain Train befuddles them with a 'YMCA 40 & over league' post move
I love this comment lol.

[paulxu]

WVU is shooting 13%. Yikes.

[xudash]

Bite me Charles.

Really, could you believe that!

[xavierj]

West coast basketball is soft. Xavier will own 2nd half.

[markchal]

we need to get Myles some shots. We shoot all these threes and none taken by the guy with the hottest hand lately? If we go down, I want to go down swinging with our hot hands getting the shots (sorry Trevon/Farr).

[nasdadjr]

I'm going one less 3 threes for x and we have a chance let's get it damn it three threes in 40 minutes is reasonable

[D-West & PO-Z]

C'mon X, need a better shooting 2nd half!

[nasdadjr]

Love or hate Barkley he is the most real personality on any network. I love listening to him even if I 100% disagree with him

[xsteve1]

West coast basketball is soft. Xavier will own 2nd half.

May be true but Arizona ain't soft.

[XUFan09]

Love or hate Barkley he is the most real personality on any network. I love listening to him even if I 100% disagree with him
Agreed 100%.

[Lloyd Christmas]

Sean Miller doesn't coach soft teams.

Let's do this.

[drudy23]

Someone else besides Stain needs to step up in second half...we need some balance.

[markchal]

leave it all on the floor fellas, this is what you work for

[xavierj]

Sean Miller doesn't coach soft teams.

Let's do this.

True but they are use to soft teams.

[KabeX]

Regardless of outcome, we're toe to toe with the #2 team in the country. Let's enjoy taking them down in the 2nd half.

[drudy23]

We need a Myles sighting.

[drudy23]

Regardless of outcome, we're toe to toe with the #2 team in the country. .

That's weak...as Chris said, "we haven't done anything yet"

[drudy23]

Blueitt needs to find the pine too

[paulxu]

Thank you Remy!
Might as well put JP in.

[Wheelhouse]

James Farr is an abject disaster in this game. He has to go to the bench.

[xsteve1]

Blueitt needs to find the pine too

Yes, his shot has left him.

[drudy23]

James Farr is an abject disaster in this game. He has to go to the bench.

No clue why he's in this game.

[Masterofreality]

Trevon is playing like he's scared sheetless.

Get....him....out. No place for fear.

[nasdadjr]

If you have not noticed Farr is boxing out well that is why he is in

[markchal]

We need help for Stain. Put in myles, put in Jp. Please take out trevon

[drudy23]

Stain is gonna run out of gas...have to help him out. He can't do everything.

[markchal]

These refs do not want to call anything.

[Masterofreality]

Stain is gonna run out of gas...have to help him out. He can't do everything.

That's why Farr HAS to give us some quality minutes.

[Blue Blooded-05]

3 on Dee.... @&$%!

Gotta go Stain, Reynolds, JP, Remy and Myles

[BMoreX]

We need guys to make their jumpers.

[nasdadjr]

I agree I want to see this line up right f ing now
Dee
Stain
Remy
Jp
Jalen

[markchal]

That's why Farr HAS to give us some quality minutes.

We need something from the guards. Stain has to do EVERYTHING on offense now. Even Jalen struggling now.

[Xavgrad08]

We have to find a way to get Miles some open looks. We can't rely on Stainbrook to much. Come on X.

[Wheelhouse]

That's why Farr HAS to give us some quality minutes.

I agree, unfortunately he hasn't given us a single quality minute yet this game.

[Masterofreality]

I agree I want to see this line up right f ing now
Dee
Stain
Remy
Jp
Jalen

Or Myles for JP end game.

[xsteve1]

O'mara may need to give us a couple minutes.

[Blue Blooded-05]

Was that an open look off an out of bounds play by Sean Miller....WTF?!?

[drudy23]

York can stroke it.

[markchal]

jeeeez our freshmen are killing us today. Come on fellas.

[paulxu]

damn JP...airball?

[drudy23]

Jesus...hit the rim.

[paulxu]

damn miles...air ball?

[paulxu]

Or Myles as the case may be.

[drudy23]

Does Matt's dad really work for NASA or did Matt just make that up?

[paulxu]

Matt Stainbrook is a f**king warrior.

[drudy23]

I'm going to bed...someone let me know what happens.

[Masterofreality]

Does Matt's dad really work for NASA or did Matt just make that up?

No. 100% True. He works at the Glenn Center up here in Cleveland. Big Facility that mostly produces and tests propulsion systems.

It's located right next to the airport. Yeah, we have scientists up here in Cleveland too.

[XU Cowbell Kid]

I'm going to bed...someone let me know what happens.

"Objection your honor!"

"Sustained. Drudy, you stay."