Xavier basketball

[XU 87]

I know this thread has nothing to do with global warming, the state of the republic, or NCAA football, but I thought I would try to start a discussion about Xavier basketball. Below is a link to an article which actually discusses XU hoops. The question I have: Who will start at point guard? I thought Larry Austin appears to be a steady but not overly talented or athletic player. Sumner appears to have more upside. Anyone have any insight?

http://www.cincinnati.com/story/xaviersports/2015/09/14/mens-basketball-practice-starts-oct-5/72274004/

[X-man]

I'm guessing that Myles Davis and Remy Abell will start the season, with one pretending to be a PG. But I expect that Sumner will get minutes and is likely to be good enough to start at PG relatively soon into the season. LA will be back-up.

[XU 87]

I think that's a fair assessment. We may see non point guards (Myles and Remy) playing some minutes at point guard, particularly early in the season. I think Myles played some point guard last year when necessary.

[casualfan]

I'm really curious to see how Mack handles that PG spot.

Any time a young guy gets the reins there will be growing pains. With that in mind do you throw Sumner to the wolves day one and let him get those out of the way right away?

Or do you play a guy like Myles out of position and try to ease Sumner into that spot?

I think there are benefits and drawbacks to both options.

[XUFan09]

I don't think Remy is really a good enough ball-handler to play the point. It will probably be Myles, *maybe* LAJ to start the season. It could continue to be those two if the staff wants to utilize Sumner's playmaking ability off the ball more.

[Kahns Krazy]

Some proper mood setting for an actual basketball discussion.

http://www.xavierhoops.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=1756&d=1442327133

[ChicagoX]

Sumner seems to have the highest ceiling between he and Larry Austin. That said, Austin actually has some in-game experience. Hopefully one of them steps up by the time conference play starts so we can have a true point guard and allow Myles and Remy to play their natural positions.

Is their any expectation that Kaiser Gates will contribute at forward this year? I also forgot about Makinde London, who redshirted last year. I'm really hoping the Sean O'Mara continues his development from last year and can provide good minutes for when Reynolds gets into foul trouble, which seems to be somewhat inevitable.

[XUFan09]

I bet one of Kaiser Gates and Makinde London contribute this year as the fourth big. There probably isn't room for both of them to get regular minutes. Either one of them could probably swing to the three, but this team has a lot of guards and wings, so I don't know how feasible that is.

[X-Fan]

I think many are underestimating how much Coach Mack likes what Austin brings to the table. If there's one thing that Mack has shown during his tenure is wanting to have a PG who controls the offense, sets the table, and makes smart decisions. To me Larry is most suited to do that right away this year. Larry showed flashes of that last year, and was very capable in spurts. I could see Larry being spelled by Myles, Sumner, and Remy. Now, if Sumner comes out playing like a vet PG with his offensive capabilities, then I think he takes the job (with Myles playing more SG). It's going to be fun watching those playing time competitions unfold.

With all that said, I want the ball in Myles hands as often as possible, so I could see Mack going with a mix of Myles and Larry at PG. Do we know if Mack or Myles have any long term plans to devleop Myles into a PG? I would think his best chance of making the NBA would be as a PG, I'm just not sure if he has the ball handling skills (or if those can be developed).

[BandAid]

Without seeing anybody firsthand (let alone anybody play firsthand in an actual game) I will always pick the player who has been:

A. In the program longest
B. Had the most actual playing time.

Therefore, I expect Larry Austin (playing time) and London (in the program longest) to get the early season nod over Sumner and Gates.


I also expect at least a half season before redshirts show us what they can really bring to the table. When you add in that London and Sumner are freshman redshirts it adds to my belief that Austin and O'Mara are going to play a larger role earlier even though Sumner, London, and even Gates may ultimately get more minutes.


Even last year I was expecting Bluiett to be behind Justin Martin to begin the year (and then Martin transferred...)


On a personal level this sets my expectations. Because I know the basement of what Austin and O'Mara bring to the table (unless they pull a Jeff Robinson) and anything added by the newcomers is a welcomed surprise.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I feel pretty confident the starting 3-5 will be:
Trevon
Farr
Jalen

I also feel confident Myles will start. If he starts at the 2 I think LA will be the starting 1 unless Sumner is playing well enough and smart enough to play PG day 1. If Myles starts out at the 1 then I think Remy will start at the 2, with LA and Sumner coming in a PG then Myles moving to two or getting rest. If Myles does start at the 1 I dont expect that to be a season long thing.

Our bench contributors depending on who starts at the 1/2 between Remy, LA, or Sumner will be:

Remy
LA
Sumner
JP
O'mara
Then probably one of London and Gates getting minutes.

Just my uneducated guess.

I think we go a strong 9 deep and a 10th can/will contribute.

[DC Muskie]

I'm sorry, I can't see how a back court of Myles and Remy helps us win the Big East. I feel Myles is better off the ball. Mostly I believe our season goes with how well Jalen has progressed. Both physically and emotionally.

Looking forward to what Sumner and London can bring to the table.

[LA Muskie]

My understanding is that, at least to start the season, the starting 5 almost certainly will be Myles Davis (1), Remy Abel (2), Trevon Blueitt (3), Jalen Reynolds (4), and James Farr (5).

[DC Muskie]

My understanding is that, at least to start the season, the starting 5 almost certainly will be Myles Davis (1), Remy Abel (2), Trevon Blueitt (3), Jalen Reynolds (4), and James Farr (5).

To me that's just putting the best five guys on the court to start the game.

[XU 87]

I'm also not real big on that Davis and Abel combo, with Davis at point. I could see that combo for a few minutes per game, but not as a starting lineup, which I assume would see substantial minutes.

[X-Fan]

I'm also not real big on that Davis and Abel combo, with Davis at point. I could see that combo for a few minutes per game, but not as a starting lineup, which I assume would see substantial minutes.

I agree. IMO, if Davis is at PG, then JP is at SG, with Remy at SF. Remember, JP got a few starts last year. If he can bring what he's shown in practice to the games, WATCH OUT!

What's really awesome in this discussion are the endless lineup possibilities. SO pumped for the season!

[Masterofreality]

Andy Macwilliams, who has seen workouts, is convinced that Larry Austin, Jr. will start at point guard. he says that he's gotten bigger, stronger and that his instincts are the best at this point.

Time will tell.

[Cheesehead]

I agree. IMO, if Davis is at PG, then JP is at SG, with Remy at SF. Remember, JP got a few starts last year. If he can bring what he's shown in practice to the games, WATCH OUT!

What's really awesome in this discussion are the endless lineup possibilities. SO pumped for the season!

I am just excited we are actually talking about basketball. Bring on Musketeer Madness!!!!!!!!

[DC Muskie]

I agree. IMO, if Davis is at PG, then JP is at SG, with Remy at SF. Remember, JP got a few starts last year. If he can bring what he's shown in practice to the games, WATCH OUT!

What's really awesome in this discussion are the endless lineup possibilities. SO pumped for the season!

Trevon has to be in the starting lineup. He is our best player.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Trevon has to be in the starting lineup. He is our best player.

Yes he does. I dont see a scenario in which JP starts. He seems like the perfect player to bring off the bench.

[Juice]

Trevon has to be in the starting lineup. He is our best player.

Possibly Jalen, but at the very least he's our best scorer. He needs to start and play a lot whether that's at the 3 or the 4 in a small lineup.

[SC in DC]

X is going Kentucky style! 2 platoons!

[LA Muskie]

Andy Macwilliams, who has seen workouts, is convinced that Larry Austin, Jr. will start at point guard. he says that he's gotten bigger, stronger and that his instincts are the best at this point.

Time will tell.
I heard Andy Mac said that. And to my knowledge he's the only one close to the program predicting it. Furthermore, my understanding is that it has far more to do with wanting Myles presence on the floor to start the game, than any deficiency in Austin's preparations or ability.

[xufan02]

I think we will see Myles Davis start off at PG until either Austin or Sumner distinguish themselves. Having a three guards like Austin, Sumner, and Macura in the second unit gives us a lot of fire power off the bench.

Also Myles has been in the program for 4 years, and is our second leading scorer. I think he gets the nod for his offense.

Our starting line-up will have some tenure.

PG- Myles -4th year Junior- went to prep school.
SG- Remy- 5th year senior.
SF- Bluiett- sophomore.
PF- Jalen- 4th year junior - went to prep school.
C- Farr- 4th year senior - went to prep school.

[Emp]

Last season, No one was successful pressing us full or three quarter court because we had sure ball handling and strategies.

Some one is going to try us on that issue now that Dee is gone. Especially since we want to get the ball to Jalen. I'm concerned about how all of our perimeter players can handle pressure.

[Murph85]

I think L. Austin will clearly be the starter at point. He gained experience last year and has played point most if not all his career. He was Mack's choice when Davis went out last year and I don't see why that would change with Myles.

He ( LA) was rated just outside the ESPN 100 but was mentioned as a player who may have moved into the 100 at final evaluation just as next years PF recruit did. (Tyrique Jones?) That puts him close to Sumner and he has played the point most if not all of his career. I would love to see the competition between those two be strong as we would have two point guards to count on in case of injury or other. That being said I agree Sumner has the higher ceiling.

I also believe having Blueitt and JP makes distribution a bit easier. They both have high BB IQs and handle the ball very well.

Can't freakin wait for this year's team.

[bleedXblue]

I see Larry and Myles at PG to start the year. It's not a position that we're expecting a lot of scoring from, but more of a facilitator. I see Sumner emerging and getting some good minutes, but's it's going to take him some time. Hopefully, come Big East play he's contributing some good minutes. I love his size and mismatch problems he brings.

[X-Fan]

Trevon has to be in the starting lineup. He is our best player.


Yes he does. I dont see a scenario in which JP starts. He seems like the perfect player to bring off the bench.

I agree about Trevon starting. I was simply talking potential lineup combos when various players are in the game.

[XUMIOH12]

I see Mack putting Larry Austin at PG to start, with Myles handling the ball as well. But that's just speculation by me. It would be nice to get Larry some work at PG before facing legit competition.

[MADXSTER]

As far as starting lineup....

PG - Larry Austin
SG - Remy Abell
SF - Trevon Bluiett
PF - Jalen Reynolds
C - James Farr

As far as depth chart

PG - Larry Austin, Myles Davis, Edmund Sumner
SG - Remy Abell, Myles Davis, Edmund Sumner
SF - Trevon Bluiett, JP Macura, Edmund Sumner
PF - Jalen Reynolds, Rashid Gaston, Makinde London, Kaiser Gates
C - James Farr, Sean O'mara, Rashid Gaston

London(6' 10") and Gates(6' 8") are both stretch 4's. Gates is the better ball handler and may slide to the 3 but remember, he was the number 1 PF coming out of Georgia. Would seem kinda odd to take him out of that position but he's a versatile player.

Highlights

Trevon Bluiett - Ranked #30 in Scout coming out of HS. #1 SF in Indiana. 35.6 ppg in HS and finished 6th in all time scoring in the state of Indiana.
JP Macura - 4 star and #1 SG in Minnesota. 32.2 ppg in HS
Edmund Sumner - 4 star #1 PG in Michigan. 23.2 ppg in HS
Makinde London - 4 star #2 PF in Florida. Grew 8" between freshman year in HS and Senior year.
Kaiser Gates - 3 star #1 PF in Georgia.
Sean O'mara - 3 star #6 PF in Illinois. 23 ppg and 13 rpg. Played both basketball and football.

[XUFan09]

Where did you hear Gates is a better ball-handler than London? I've seen some pretty impressive ball-handling from London for a 6'10" guy.

[D-West & PO-Z]

As far as starting lineup....

PG - Larry Austin
SG - Remy Abell
SF - Trevon Bluiett
PF - Jalen Reynolds
C - James Farr

As far as depth chart

PG - Larry Austin, Myles Davis, Edmund Sumner
SG - Remy Abell, Myles Davis, Edmund Sumner
SF - Trevon Bluiett, JP Macura, Edmund Sumner
PF - Jalen Reynolds, Rashid Gaston, Makinde London, Kaiser Gates
C - James Farr, Sean O'mara, Rashid Gaston

London(6' 10") and Gates(6' 8") are both stretch 4's. Gates is the better ball handler and may slide to the 3 but remember, he was the number 1 PF coming out of Georgia. Would seem kinda odd to take him out of that position but he's a versatile player.

Highlights

Trevon Bluiett - Ranked #30 in Scout coming out of HS. #1 SF in Indiana. 35.6 ppg in HS and finished 6th in all time scoring in the state of Indiana.
JP Macura - 4 star and #1 SG in Minnesota. 32.2 ppg in HS
Edmund Sumner - 4 star #1 PG in Michigan. 23.2 ppg in HS
Makinde London - 4 star #2 PF in Florida. Grew 8" between freshman year in HS and Senior year.
Kaiser Gates - 3 star #1 PF in Georgia.
Sean O'mara - 3 star #6 PF in Illinois. 23 ppg and 13 rpg. Played both basketball and football.

Gaston has to sit a year.

I could be wrong but I dont think there is any way Myles isnt starting. I think he will be our best overall player next year.

[Smooth]

Last season, No one was successful pressing us full or three quarter court because we had sure ball handling and strategies.

Some one is going to try us on that issue now that Dee is gone. Especially since we want to get the ball to Jalen. I'm concerned about how all of our perimeter players can handle pressure.

We also gave to Farr and had him bring it up the court. Our opponents would have two guys back on D so Farr would have a clear path across mid-court. If a guard moved over to him, he would find our open guard. Of course this will not work as well if the opponent commits to a five-man press. Then we could have Jalen go long and Farr throw it over the D. Bluiett also broke the press when he was at the 4. I guess Stainbrook did when he was paired with Jalen but I don't really remember that happening.

[X-Fan]

I could be wrong but I dont think there is any way Myles isnt starting. I think he will be our best overall player next year.
This x 1000

I am very high on Myles. He made a tremendous leap from Frosh to Soph. I think he'll be unstoppable at times this year. Love his game!

[spursy]

Love this thread. Love the possibilities with next year's team.

The "unknowns" we are talking about are all positives, and they should be. Sumner oozes potential, LA could look like dee (though his jump shot is still a question), and London is going to be very versatile. Farr looks ready to have a consistent role as a rebounding force and we can only expect blueitt to be even better. And then there is jp who I can't see regressing this year. He is a killer off the bench. My biggest concern is if Jalen is ready to stay out of foul trouble while still playing with the emotion that makes him a force. That said, I am wildly excited for November and am equally elated to see some basketball talk on this board. Carry on.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[MADXSTER]

I really don't think that there is a weak player on this team.

[xu82]

Gaston has to sit a year.

I could be wrong but I dont think there is any way Myles isnt starting. I think he will be our best overall player next year.

Agreed on Myles.

Who starts is a very interesting question. Who gets the most minutes is a completely different question. We saw that last year with a few guys.

[Strange Brew]

Less than 2 months to go. Can't wait. Who will start at point? Will Jalen be all the beast he can be? Will Myles dominate? Will my boy blu have a huge sophomore leap? Will Jimmie Farr crash every board?

When will Mick Cronin begin to start whining about having to play at Cintas? Will his father challenge more than 5 X fans to a fight?

Will Chat continue to be the best place for every game (for us out of towners)?

Should be a fun season....

[XUMIOH12]

I think Myles will definitely be starting, and I think Abell may come off the bench as a 6th man.

[paulxu]

when will mick cronin stop whining about having to play at cintas?

ftfy

[THRILLHOUSE]

I think Myles will definitely be starting, and I think Abell may come off the bench as a 6th man.

Abell is a senior and our best defensive player. I'd be surprised if Mack didn't start him.

[XUMIOH12]

Abell is a senior and our best defensive player. I'd be surprised if Mack didn't start him.

True, Mack does have a thing for starting seniors. With Abell as a starter, it likely means he and Myles will be the back court combo, which I don't like for ball-handling purposes. Either way its exciting to think of the many different combos we can put out on the court at any given time.

[THRILLHOUSE]

True, Mack does have a thing for starting seniors. With Abell as a starter, it likely means he and Myles will be the back court combo, which I don't like for ball-handling purposes. Either way its exciting to think of the many different combos we can put out on the court at any given time.

Myles being the 6th man is also an option. Like you said, many different combos and likely it won't stay the same all season.

[mistabeecee41]

I think the PG siutation all depends on how confident Mack is in Jalen/Tre. If he feels they can both consistently get us 13-15 per night, he probably feels confident with Remy, LAJ and Farr in the starting lineup. Remy will get his 9-10 PPG, while LA can get them looks, give us 6-7 per night while Farr rebounds.

Without Tre and Jalen scoring at high levels, we'll probably need Myles in there to give us more offensive power in the starting lineup.

[LA Muskie]

Myles is the undisputed leader of this team. He's starting.

[DC Muskie]

Myles is the undisputed leader of this team. He's starting.

That's actually an important fact that I completely forgot to think of. It's good to know Myles is the leader. You can easily forget that Dee is gone. Who else? Remy? Is Trevon the young leader?

Leadership will certainly need to be established early.

[waggy]

My guess would be Farr-Abell co-captains, and possibly add Jalen for tri-captains.

[LA Muskie]

My guess would be Farr-Abell co-captains, and possibly add Jalen for tri-captains.
Myles will be one of the captains.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Myles is the undisputed leader of this team. He's starting.

Yes this. Unless Myles is starting at PG (definitely possible) then Remy is coming off the bech. Can't bench Tre or Jalen, Farr is most likely starting, he is our best rebounder and we need two bigs. If LA is at PG then Myles is at the 2.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Abell is a senior and our best defensive player. I'd be surprised if Mack didn't start him.

I just dont see where he starts at unless Myles is at the 1. My guess is Remy comes off the bench. He may play starters mins and be in at end of games for D but if LA starts at the 1 I think Myles has to be the 2.

[MADXSTER]

First of all, What a great problem to have....does your team leader start of come off the bench because Xavier has so many quality players.

Second, didn't Posey come off the bench as well. I'm of the opinion that Myles, like Posey, would not mind coming off the bench as long as that was the best plan of attack for Xavier to win games.

[LA Muskie]

I just dont see where he starts at unless Myles is at the 1. My guess is Remy comes off the bench. He may play starters mins and be in at end of games for D but if LA starts at the 1 I think Myles has to be the 2.
From what I'm hearing they will start the year with Myles at the 1 and Remy at the 2 and see how it goes from there. Not only is that our most experienced lineup, but it puts our two best offensive weapons on the floor (Myles and Trevon) while reinforcing the defensive end with Remy. I think the big question marks will be ball-handling and flow on the offensive end, and of course defense (practically across the board--save, perhaps, Remy).

[DC Muskie]

Second, didn't Posey come off the bench as well. I'm of the opinion that Myles, like Posey, would not mind coming off the bench as long as that was the best plan of attack for Xavier to win games.

Yes we had a first round NBA pick come off the bench. Posey was 6th man in 98.

[LA Muskie]

First of all, What a great problem to have....does your team leader start of come off the bench because Xavier has so many quality players.

Second, didn't Posey come off the bench as well. I'm of the opinion that Myles, like Posey, would not mind coming off the bench as long as that was the best plan of attack for Xavier to win games.
I don't think it has anything to do with not wanting to upset Myles. It's all about wanting his leadership and experience on the court to start the season. If things don't work out, the staff can always change things up. But by starting Remy and Myles, it gives some of the younger guys an opportunity to ease into things -- which can be a good thing.

[blobfan]

It is so nice to come to the boards to see a multi-page thread about BASKETBALL pop up overnight.

[XUMIOH12]

Under 2 months until an actual game

[X-band '01]

It is so nice to come to the boards to see a multi-page thread about BASKETBALL pop up overnight.

Amazingly enough, it also had nothing to do with off-the-court issues.

[muskiefan82]

Amazingly enough, it also had nothing to do with off-the-court issues.

No!!!!!!!! You just had to say it, didn't you!!

[THRILLHOUSE]

I just dont see where he starts at unless Myles is at the 1. My guess is Remy comes off the bench. He may play starters mins and be in at end of games for D but if LA starts at the 1 I think Myles has to be the 2.

Someone can correct me if I'm mis-remembering, but Remy started almost every game last season. Mack isn't going to bench a Senior that started a majority of his games as a Junior and is the team's best defender. Especially since this team is pretty weak on D. If Myles starts it's has to be at PG. I personally think Myles is better off the ball, so I'd prefer him be the 6th man. But if Mack doesn't feel comfortable with either Austin or Sumner at the start of the year, or wants more offense out of the PG spot, then Myles at point would make sense. Only other scenario would be Mack goes with a small lineup and only starts Farr or Reynolds. Don't see that happening though.

[XU Cowbell Kid]

While not quite the same caliber as Posey, Josh Duncan came off the bench for much of his senior season despite being our leading scorer. Granted, that was on the team that almost had 6 players averaging double digits in points (Duncan, Lavender, Brown, Anderson, Raymond, and Burrell), so someone had to be the sixth man. I don't want to get my hopes up, because that was one special team, but with this much talent, hopefully we will look just as fondly on this year's lineup in 8 years.

[Pluto]

I could also see Mack playing Bluiett at the 4 and slide remy down to the 3 so LAJ/Sumner have Myles back there for help/added offense. It also protects Reynolds from quick fouls to start the game.

[xufan2434]

Mack loved the small ball lineup last year for most of their late season success. I wouldn't be surprised if he stuck to it. I think when it comes down to crunch time, the 5 best players will play. I think at the beginning of the season LAJ starts at point, with TB playing the 4. I'm assuming Jalen will still have some foul problems this year so some bench time might be inevitable.

I see Myles playing point at times like Stanley did his senior year. If that early game at Michigan is close late, I doubt Sumner or LAJ will be running the show. It would be awesome if by March, LAJ has solidified himself as the starter and a good one at that. X has had some point guards in the past really come on strong late their sophomore year.

Side note, kind of forgot how many young guys UC is going to be returning. Might be the best shootout in a couple years we've seen. I expect an absolute dog fight in the post with Clark and Jalen. They gave UK a pretty good game the last time they played. Should be a great environment.

[XUMIOH12]

Side note, kind of forgot how many young guys UC is going to be returning. Might be the best shootout in a couple years we've seen. I expect an absolute dog fight in the post with Clark and Jalen. They gave UK a pretty good game the last time they played. Should be a great environment.

What about last years shootout?

[xu82]

A name I don't think I've seen is Sean O'Mara. Certainly not as a starter, but I thought he was pretty solid in limited minutes for a young guy last year. I can see him getting a few more minutes, especially when one of our Bigs gets in foul trouble, and I look forward to seeing how he produces. All these talented guys is pretty darn fun!

[LA Muskie]

A name I don't think I've seen is Sean O'Mara. Certainly not as a starter, but I thought he was pretty solid in limited minutes for a young guy last year. I can see him getting a few more minutes, especially when one of our Bigs gets in foul trouble, and I look forward to seeing how he produces. All these talented guys is pretty darn fun!
I think Sean will be solid. But I fear people are going to have unreasonable expectations that he will be the next Stainbrook.

[xu82]

I think Sean will be solid. But I fear people are going to have unreasonable expectations that he will be the next Stainbrook.

I think he'll be an above avreage passer, but there's onle one Big Stain! I look forward to seeing how he progresses with his overall game. One mini-highlight for me last year was watching a guy penetrate and literally bounce off of a well planted Sean. "Solid" is a good description.

[XUMIOH12]

I like O'Mara and think he will be a consistent player for us playing good low post defense, rebounding, and getting a couple buckets here and there. Next season is the year he will really have to step up.

[XU Cowbell Kid]

I like O'Mara and think he will be a consistent player for us playing good low post defense, rebounding, and getting a couple buckets here and there. Next season is the year he will really have to step up.

What excites me about O'Mara is that big guys take longer to develop. We've had a lot of people go from being scorned to loved in 4 years (Jason Love, Kenny to name a couple). If he follows this upward trend, O'Mara has the potential to be one of the best bigs we've had in a long time. I said this last year, but O'Mara is the first freshman big man I can remember in recent years that hasn't fallen under the wrath of this board for "making boneheaded plays." I prefer to think of them as just regular plays by a freshman big that is still adjusting. But whatever you call them, he didn't have those. He was solid as a freshman. And that is something that shouldn't be taken lightly.

[XUFan09]

I think he'll be an above avreage passer, but there's onle one Big Stain! I look forward to seeing how he progresses with his overall game. One mini-highlight for me last year was watching a guy penetrate and literally bounce off of a well planted Sean. "Solid" is a good description.

It was Ladontae Henton, and I started cracking up laughing when I saw it.

[xufan2434]

What about last years shootout?

Last year's was awesome in terms of how it ended.. but in terms of level of play, and the fact that X was up 10+ most of the game wouldn't make it one of the best IMO. Most of the players on the floor this year will be returning guys that are better and more in tune with the rivalry. I was thinking it would have more of a similar feel to the 2010-2012 years

[muskienick]

One player seemingly being left out of the conversation is J.P. Macura. That kid was the best defender in the 1-3-1 defense that Chris liked so much last year. If he can teach this group to play it as effectively, Macura could get a lot of minutes for that reason alone. The fact that we have, potentially, two other players who might be perfect additions to the 1-3-1, Edmond Sumner and a very quick 6'9" Mikinde London, that set could be a killer for the Muskies. Imagine Macura out top with Sumner, London, and Abell as wing-high post-wing (respectively) and either Reynolds or Farr down low. It might be a little shaky for a while on the other end of the floor due to our third-best ball handler running the point, but the opposition can't win if they can't score!

[XUFan09]

Sumner is considered the third best ball-handler? Where's that info coming from?

[paulxu]

I never see any mention (I don't think) of Macura at the 2. He's listed as a guard.
Will we see any lineup with him as the 2, with maybe Bluiett, Farr and Reynolds...going big?

[MADXSTER]

I never see any mention (I don't think) of Macura at the 2. He's listed as a guard.
Will we see any lineup with him as the 2, with maybe Bluiett, Farr and Reynolds...going big?

He was listed as the #1 SG coming out of Minnesota.

[MADXSTER]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdPdUzKb2oI

[bobbiemcgee]

Sumner is considered the third best ball-handler? Where's that info coming from?


Very excited to see Sumner play.
I think he is going to be wayyyyyyyyyyy better than predicted.

[muskienick]

Sumner is considered the third best ball-handler? Where's that info coming from?

I was using Remy as the 3rd best.

[xu82]

I was using Remy as the 3rd best.

I don't know that Remy is even third, which is a good thing. We should be able to break a press by committee when needed.

[XUFan09]

I was using Remy as the 3rd best.
Remy isn't that strong of a ball-handler for his position. That theoretical lineup would have Sumner at the point.

Edit: And by that, I don't mean he's a bad ball-handler. He's just mediocre for a shooting guard. Macura, Bluiett, and Myles are all probably better than him, along with LAJ and Sumner.

[LA Muskie]

I think the 1-3-1 worked well in spurts because it was used in spurts. For those who fell in love with it last year, I suspect you will be disappointed this year. We will see it in spurts again. Probably more so than last year. But it will not be our primary defense.

[MADXSTER]

I think the 1-3-1 worked well in spurts because it was used in spurts. For those who fell in love with it last year, I suspect you will be disappointed this year. We will see it in spurts again. Probably more so than last year. But it will not be our primary defense.

You're probably correct but I submit that this team is taller, more experienced, and just as quick as last year's team. This is going to help with both the pack line defense as well as 1-3-1. It's taken a couple of years for Mack and crew but Xavier is finally looking more like a true Big East team.

[DC Muskie]

Who is coaching the pack-line defense now that Carter went to lose at DePaul?

[Chalmers0]

I was using Remy as the 3rd best.

From what I've heard/seen, Remy is probably the worst ballhandler out of the guards, which is one reason why I don't think we should expect to see him playing any PG this year

[LA Muskie]

You're probably correct but I submit that this team is taller, more experienced, and just as quick as last year's team. This is going to help with both the pack line defense as well as 1-3-1. It's taken a couple of years for Mack and crew but Xavier is finally looking more like a true Big East team.

I actually think defense is a HUGE question mark for us this year. Remy is our only returning "plus" defender, and even he struggled to defend within the system.

That's not to say we can't defend, but we need to see some serious improvement on that end of the court from just about everyone.

[XU 87]

I actually think defense is a HUGE question mark for us this year. Remy is our only returning "plus" defender, and even he struggled to defend within the system.

That's not to say we can't defend, but we need to see some serious improvement on that end of the court from just about everyone.

As much as we all liked Stainbrook, I think he was a bit of a liability on defense due to his lack of foot speed and ability to block shots. Gates and London should help with athleticism on defense. Whether they will be good defenders is a different story.

[X-Fan]

You're probably correct but I submit that this team is taller, more experienced, and just as quick as last year's team. This is going to help with both the pack line defense as well as 1-3-1. It's taken a couple of years for Mack and crew but Xavier is finally looking more like a true Big East team.


I actually think defense is a HUGE question mark for us this year. Remy is our only returning "plus" defender, and even he struggled to defend within the system.

That's not to say we can't defend, but we need to see some serious improvement on that end of the court from just about everyone.


As much as we all liked Stainbrook, I think he was a bit of a liability on defense due to his lack of foot speed and ability to block shots. Gates and London should help with athleticism on defense. Whether they will be good defenders is a different story.

I think a big factor in having to go to the 1-3-1 last year was a combo of inexperienced players (frosh, sophs) that couldn't play man to man at the level that is needed. I know Coach prefers Man to Man, so I'm sure we'll see that primarily until the 1-3-1 is potentially needed more. While Stainbrook might have been a liability, if the young guys have breakdowns it must makes everyone else look bad.

[LA Muskie]

No doubt about that. Stainbrook was a clear defensive liability. And we certainly will be more athletic this year -- particularly in the front court. Like you say (and I agree) whether that translates into better defense is the big question.

Dee may not have been our best defender, but he was up there -- and more fundamentally he was our heart and soul on defense. Remy hasn't struck me as a "leader" in the past, and Myles is limited on that end of the court. It will be interesting to see who Dee has handed that baton off to.

[XUFan09]

I actually think defense is a HUGE question mark for us this year. Remy is our only returning "plus" defender, and even he struggled to defend within the system.

That's not to say we can't defend, but we need to see some serious improvement on that end of the court from just about everyone.
Going off 87, I think that the defense will be better with Farr replacing Stainbrook (especially because that moves Farr to a position where his own foot speed isn't as big of an issue). Your post, though, brings up the question of *how much* better. Farr and Reynolds together provide good rim protection, but neither is a plus-defender overall (even if Reynolds could be). Myles and Bluiett are going to be two of the minutes leaders, and both are physically limited. Macura has some of the physical tools but has never really had good defensive instincts in a traditional defense (read: not the 1-3-1). Sumner sounds like he'll be a plus-defender in his career, but it remains to be seen how consistent he will be as a freshman. LAJ will be a plus-defender, but we don't know how many minutes he'll get. And like you said, Remy isn't the best at playing within the system. His instincts lend him more to a strict man-to-man pressure defense than the packline.

Gates and London do provide length and athleticism, but we are very unlikely to see both playing significant minutes and we might not see either playing a lot as freshman. They also carry the same consistency questions as Sumner.

[LA Muskie]

I think a big factor in having to go to the 1-3-1 last year was a combo of inexperienced players (frosh, sophs) that couldn't play man to man at the level that is needed. I know Coach prefers Man to Man, so I'm sure we'll see that primarily until the 1-3-1 is potentially needed more. While Stainbrook might have been a liability, if the young guys have breakdowns it must makes everyone else look bad.

I agree. I actually really like the 1-3-1 for what it is. It's a great change of pace defense that allows us to play a very athletic lineup that can also wreak havoc on the offensive end. But you can't play it all game or even most of the game. Which is why we are and will remain a primarily man -- modified packline -- defensive team.

[MADXSTER]

Reynolds picked up a number of fouls last year because Stain was slow to get back into position on D. I never really noticed how slow Stain was to get back after hedging until O'mara had subbed in for him and there was a major difference.

Defense will be better this year. How much is to be seen but it will definitely better. Xavier is a lot longer. They lose 6'0" Dee and 6'10" Stain and pick up 6'6" Sumner, 6'8" Gates and 6'10 London.

[LA Muskie]

Defense will be better this year. How much is to be seen but it will definitely better. Xavier is a lot longer. They lose 6'0" Dee and 6'10" Stain and pick up 6'6" Sumner, 6'8" Gates and 6'10 London.
That may be true, but it's more a measure of minutes than men. Dee may have averaged more minutes last year than Sumner, Gates and London will average--combined--this year (probably a slight exaggeration, but not by much). Separately, despite Dee's stature he was easily our second best on-ball defender, and probably our best system defender.

As for Reynolds, Stainbrook certainly didn't help matters but his defensive fundamentals were a much bigger issue. He was just as foul prone when playing with Farr, who will likely be his primary post-mate this year.

[XUMIOH12]

I'm a little concerned about our man to man defense this year with a lot of our guards not having experience/not being good at defending the perimeter and preventing driving lanes.
I imagine that is something that should improve immensely throughout the season with everyone gaining experience playing defense together as a team.
I do like the players we have to play the 1-3-1 zone again though.
It will be interesting to see how Mack chooses the defenses throughout the year.

[muskienick]

I think a big factor in having to go to the 1-3-1 last year was a combo of inexperienced players (frosh, sophs) that couldn't play man to man at the level that is needed. I know Coach prefers Man to Man, so I'm sure we'll see that primarily until the 1-3-1 is potentially needed more. While Stainbrook might have been a liability, if the young guys have breakdowns it must makes everyone else look bad.

The 1-3-1 half-court pressing defense is at least as difficult to play as the man. It is similar to man in one sense in that if one guy is slow to his spot, or reaches in, or fails to deny away from the ball, it simply won't work. The fact is that the point man must try to force their ball handler to his weaker dribbling side so the likelihood of him having to pick up his dribble is enhanced or he must make an early pass to the wing on that side. The wing is forced to the sideline by a double team and the other three guys deny away from the ball (with a pass back to the point often resulting in a JP breakout. Even when it doesn't, the worst result is usually a reset of the offense.

I agree that it should be used as one of a number of defensive weapons the Muskies throw at the opposition this year. I believe our size and quickness could serve us well in any defense we use but the man and 1-3-1 (as described) also require BB-smarts and an attitude. Those will be the unknowns in this whole defensive scenario.

[XUFan09]

That may be true, but it's more a measure of minutes than men. Dee may have averaged more minutes last year than Sumner, Gates and London will average--combined--this year (probably a slight exaggeration, but not by much). Separately, despite Dee's stature he was easily our second best on-ball defender, and probably our best system defender.

As for Reynolds, Stainbrook certainly didn't help matters but his defensive fundamentals were a much bigger issue. He was just as foul prone when playing with Farr, who will likely be his primary post-mate this year.
I don't think people often appreciated that we had TWO of the best on-ball defenders in the league...Just everyone else was mediocre or a minus-defender.

[bobbiemcgee]

Nice article on Tre:

http://news-sentinel.com/sports/Xavier-s-Trevon-Bluiett-finds-strength-from-weakness

[XUMIOH12]

nice little article for sure. Now lets play ball!

[mistabeecee41]

Per Mack via Rothstein - Sumner is up to 185.

Check out @JonRothstein's Tweet: https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/649316153232388096?s=09

[xu82]

Per Mack via Rothstein - Sumner is up to 185.

Check out @JonRothstein's Tweet: https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/649316153232388096?s=09

That's a LOT of hard work. Gotta love that!

[casualfan]

Rothstein also put out an article yesterday about the PG spot with comments from Mack that made it seem like it will be handled with a PG by committee

[xukeith]

http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/eye-on-college-basketball/25323860/observations-landing-miles-bridges-would-be-big-for-michigan-state

second story.
Mack talks pg.

[bobbiemcgee]

"Quick as Semaj" Giggity. :jawdrop2:

[GIMMFD]

"Quick as Semaj" Giggity. :jawdrop2:

Dear lord if this is true, then Sumner could be very special here in a couple years..

[bleedXblue]

Dear lord if this is true, then Sumner could be very special here in a couple years..

I think he will be special sooner than that.

[xu82]

That little tease last year made me more curious than usual. He's not just another highly touted guy - he's got a unique skill set.

[SC in DC]

Like SC, a 2yr player for X?

[mistabeecee41]

Like SC, a 2yr player for X?

wouldn't go that far. Semaj was the real deal, but our team his freshmen year just wasn't very good. He was given the keys. Sumner will be with loaded teams for the next 2 years, doubt he puts up the numbers needed to leave early.

[XUFan09]

Like SC, a 2yr player for X?

https://fromstaaktomack.wordpress.com/2013/05/13/edmond-sumner-as-a-musketeer/

That's from 2+ years ago. Since then, Sumner has grown a few inches, gained some weight, and worked on his game. Even two years ago, though, the comparisons between Semaj and him were easy to make.

Interestingly, Aleksander Vezenkov committed three days after this post, and Remy Abell one day after that.

[paulxu]

Somehow, when I go to the home page of the Enquirer, there is a video ad from Xavier for Shootout tickets, which is about a 20 second video loop of Xavier guys making shots. Very nice.

http://www.cincinnati.com/

Edit: if everybody who goes to the Enquirer sees that video, that's some smart marketing at an early date and great publicity for the Muskies

[xukeith]

Author lost credibility with this quoute:
"Many NBA draft projections show Semaj going in the first round in 2014, maybe even in the lottery,"

[Milhouse]

Author lost credibility with this quoute:
"Many NBA draft projections show Semaj going in the first round in 2014, maybe even in the lottery,"

in the 2013 off season that was 100% correct.

[XUFan09]

Author lost credibility with this quoute:
"Many NBA draft projections show Semaj going in the first round in 2014, maybe even in the lottery,"
The author was me, and yes, in May 2013, those draft projections were absolutely correct. I did say the article was over two years old, you know.

[XUMIOH12]

right, that summer before, most every draft site had him rated as no worse than a first round pick.

[bobbiemcgee]

http://www.todaysu.com/big-east-today/xavier-musketeers/xaviers-myles-davis-big-easts-most-underrated-player/

[XUFan09]

http://www.todaysu.com/big-east-today/xavier-musketeers/xaviers-myles-davis-big-easts-most-underrated-player/

"Third at best"? Nah, one of the top three options. I know it's technically the same, but the tone is completely different. Even this past season as a sophomore, Myles was frequently the bail-out player near the end of the shot clock. I expect him to have a big jump again, and instead of it being the duo of Reynolds and Bluiett with him trailing behind, it will be the trio of Reynolds, Bluiett, and Myles, with Myles as the team leader too.

[XfansinKy]

Glad to be back from a xavierhoops hiatus. <hope is spelled that right. EKU graduate...oh well. Anyways I would like to see Remy n Austin start out the backcourt. I've heard Austin is jumping about like Sumner n Reynolds nowadays. Don't know how that will equate to on court performance, but it is encouraging knowing already he's got elite speed now he's apparently a leaper as well. I like Myles instant offense off the bench. That could give us possibly the best shooter in the Big East as a 6th man. Summer could, and in my opinion will get big minutes off the bench playin both guards n maybe a little time as a swingman. To me Sumner is the key. Saw a picture of him on Facebook and he's not skinny. He looks like a muscular built kid that is long n lean. IMO Summer n Reynolds are who could take this team to an elite 8 and give us at least a punchers chance to get to that elusive Final 4. Great to be back X nation. I've missed my fellow fans.

[XfansinKy]

Sorry if I'm off topic but I've heard rumors Sean has transformed himself in the weight room and is ripped. As a result I heard he was the 2nd best post player on this team as of now. Will Farr make the senior jump or lose majority minutes to Sean?Man Farr loves the game and it shows. I would love to see him finally relax and let the game come to him. If that happens, he's gonna be a force.

[sirthought]

He might have put on some muscle, but Sumner still looks pretty skinny to me. This is from August.

https://www.facebook.com/edmondsumner/videos/10153536776048913/?pnref=story



(But this dunking shows some real style. I read he has a 41" vertical jump, which is insane.)

[THRILLHOUSE]

X #39 in the CBS ranking of every team

http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/eye-on-college-basketball/25331040/cbs-sports-2015-16-ranking-of-every-college-basketball-team-from-1-351

[LA Muskie]

Sneak up on them!!! (First!)

[X-band '01]

Right below BYU again.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Right below BYU again.

They're just so damn fun and entertaining that BYU team.

[DC Muskie]

CBS Sports came out (http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/eye-on-college-basketball/25336675/north-carolina-tar-heels-are-no-1-in-preseason-top-25-and-one) with their preseason poll again.

Out of 26 teams, we are not listed. When was the last time we were preseason ranked? 1974? I kid, but not really.

One BE team.

Ugh.

[GoMuskies]

When was the last time we were preseason ranked?


Preseason? When was the last time we were ranked during the season? A week after "the fight"?

[bobbiemcgee]

and Boise St?

[X-Fan]

CBS Sports came out (http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/eye-on-college-basketball/25336675/north-carolina-tar-heels-are-no-1-in-preseason-top-25-and-one) with their preseason poll again.

Out of 26 teams, we are not listed. When was the last time we were preseason ranked? 1974? I kid, but not really.

One BE team.

Ugh.


Preseason? When was the last time we were ranked during the season? A week after "the fight"?
Strange. X sure seems to wind up in the top 25 at the end of seasons. Soon enough everybody will know.

[X-band '01]

UC came out at #24 - they're usually not ranked in preseason, either.

[Xville]

A couple of puzzling things to me.....Purdue at 26 I believe is too low. Uconn at 16 and Indiana at 13 seem too high. When are people going to realize that Crean sucks as a coach?

[Masterofreality]

UC came out at #24 - they're usually not ranked in preseason, either.

When will people realize that Sippin Mick sucks as an offensive coach?

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Our ranking is a tad low but there were just a few teams I would have moved behind us that were higher. We lost Stain who frequently owned the half court set and a senior PG who just didn't turn the ball over much. Those are two huge losses that have to be replaced.

This year would have been a great year for a preseason trip and not last year. One that would have allowed our new PGs to really play in real game formats.

[XUMIOH12]

Preseason rankings mean nothing, I hate them because they are usually way off. Its just something to create discussion before the season starts, which is fine since that's about all that's going on in college basketball right now ha.

[XUFan09]

Our ranking is a tad low but there were just a few teams I would have moved behind us that were higher. We lost Stain who frequently owned the half court set and a senior PG who just didn't turn the ball over much. Those are two huge losses that have to be replaced.

This year would have been a great year for a preseason trip and not last year. One that would have allowed our new PGs to really play in real game formats.

The bolded part is a gross understatement of what Dee offered, bit otherwise I agree with that paragraph.

Concerning the second paragraph, I strongly disagree. This team has point guard questions, but almost every team has questions in one place or another, so almost every year would theoretically be a great year for a preseason trip. Last year's team was young, though, 217th in experience per Kenpom, and included a freshman as the second leading scorer. That team needed the preseason trip to mesh much more than the coming year's team, which will be a bit above average in experience.

[DC Muskie]

Preseason? When was the last time we were ranked during the season? A week after "the fight"?

Exactly.


Strange. X sure seems to wind up in the top 25 at the end of seasons. Soon enough everybody will know.

What's strange is how nobody see the ridiculousness of this narrative.

Soon enough everybody will know? We've been to 15 straight Sweet Sixteens and yet, year after year, nothing in the preseason rankings.


Preseason rankings mean nothing, I hate them because they are usually way off. Its just something to create discussion before the season starts, which is fine since that's about all that's going on in college basketball right now ha.

The preseason rankings do mean something. You stated it, it gets people talking. No one actually watches college basketball, so it would be at least nice to see Xavier build upon on March success the following year and be a part of the conversation.

I'm not kidding, we will stare down another 5th or 6th place finish in the BE. Sneak into the Dance and win a couple of games and everyone here will be satisfied.

Hey could be worse right?

[xunorm]

Found this little gem


http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=13884413

[Cheesehead]

Found this little gem


http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=13884413

That just got me pumped up.

[spursy]

Bit OT, but doesn't warrant its own thread,
Has anyone received their season tickets yet? Or should I be calling the ticket office?

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Olsingledigit]

Bit OT, but doesn't warrant its own thread,
Has anyone received their season tickets yet? Or should I be calling the ticket office?

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk
Talked to them Monday. Tickets are at the printer and should be mailed the end of this week, but it takes more than a day to mail them.

[spursy]

Talked to them Monday. Tickets are at the printer and should be mailed the end of this week, but it takes more than a day to mail them.
Good deal. Thank you.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[XUMIOH12]

Exactly.



What's strange is how nobody see the ridiculousness of this narrative.

Soon enough everybody will know? We've been to 15 straight Sweet Sixteens and yet, year after year, nothing in the preseason rankings.



The preseason rankings do mean something. You stated it, it gets people talking. No one actually watches college basketball, so it would be at least nice to see Xavier build upon on March success the following year and be a part of the conversation.

I'm not kidding, we will stare down another 5th or 6th place finish in the BE. Sneak into the Dance and win a couple of games and everyone here will be satisfied.

Hey could be worse right?

All I meant was that rankings mean nothing basketball-wise. It means something media wise. But, yes, Xavier will probably be underrated the entire year, maybe lose a couple bad games, then show up big in March. That's just how it works.

[paulxu]

Dickie V has us at #39. I predict good things. I think the last time we were there it was an Elite 8 year.

Also, I'd like to see Edmond Sumner flat tear this league apart.

[xudash]

Dickie V has us at #39. I predict good things. I think the last time we were there it was an Elite 8 year.

Also, I'd like to see Edmond Sumner flat tear this league apart.

That is my gut feeling exactly.

Overall, with all due respect and appreciation to Matt Stainbrook, this version of Xavier might look like a Lamborghini instead of an Escalade.

[D-West & PO-Z]

That is my gut feeling exactly.

Overall, with all due respect and appreciation to Matt Stainbrook, this version of Xavier might look like a Lamborghini instead of an Escalade.

I think that might be undervaluing the importance of Stainbrook. Yes without him the lineup gets more athletic but that doesnt mean it is better. I expect a big year for XU but there will be some major adjustment without Stain in the middle. He was our best post player by far on offense, scoring and passing. You could always count on him to make the right decision with ball in his hands in the middle. Farr and Jalen are really going to need to step up.

[xu82]

I think that might be undervaluing the importance of Stainbrook. Yes without him the lineup gets more athletic but that doesnt mean it is better. I expect a big year for XU but there will be some major adjustment without Stain in the middle. He was our best post player by far on offense, scoring and passing. You could always count on him to make the right decision with ball in his hands in the middle. Farr and Jalen are really going to need to step up.

The offense will have to look very different this year. I don't know if that's good or bad, but it's got to be different. There is no clear replacement for what Matt offered. But we should be able to do a lot of different things..... I just can't imagine what it's going to look like yet. And I can't wait to see Sumner on the floor.

[D-West & PO-Z]

The offense will have to look very different this year. I don't know if that's good or bad, but it's got to be different. There is no clear replacement for what Matt offered. But we should be able to do a lot of different things..... I just can't imagine what it's going to look like yet. And I can't wait to see Sumner on the floor.

Yes true. And it could be better, but you are right it is going to have to be different and different usually takes some time to come together.

[MADXSTER]

This year, for whatever reason, I'm not really concerned about the rankings. It's not so much that I think Xavier has a really good team as much as I KNOW that Xavier has a really good team. The question is How good? This team may be Really Good or they may be Great. The potential is definitely there. If things fall in place and the injury bug stays away, Xavier fans may be on the verge of the best season ever witnessed.

This was not a rebuilding year. The sexy six recruits of Trevon Bluiett, JP Macura, Sean O'Mara, Larry Austin, Makinde London, and Edmond Sumner are all ready to play. Xavier has experience in Abel, Reynolds, Farr and Myles. Bluiett and JP have game time as well. Xavier has more shooters than it ever has in Abel, Bluiett, JP, Myles, Sumner and London. Xavier has rebounders in Farr and Reynolds. If O'Mara can join the other two, which isn't far fetched, this team will be tough to beat on the boards. Xavier has spead in Abel, Reynolds, Sumner. Xavier has both defenders and two defenses for other teams to contend with. Xavier is taller and longer than ever before. This team is deep. Xavier has guys coming off the bench who would start for other teams.

This Xavier team is stronger, strength wise, than last year. Faster than last year. More experienced than last year. Has more shooters than last year.

If there was ever a year to get season tickets, or package tickets or single game tickets, this is the year.

Xavier will not make noise in the tournament. They WILL BE the tournament. Toss the ball and lets play!

[MADXSTER]

Yes true. And it could be better, but you are right it is going to have to be different and different usually takes some time to come together.

Defense will be better without Stain. He was slow to get back into position. Many times Reynolds or Farr picked up fouls because they had to help out. Or when they did help out their man was left open. Hedging hurt last year's team but was significantly faster when O'mara or Reynolds did the job. fast breaks will be more effective with the faster big men as well.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Defense will be better without Stain. He was slow to get back into position. Many times Reynolds or Farr picked up fouls because they had to help out. Or when they did help out their man was left open. Hedging hurt last year's team but was significantly faster when O'mara or Reynolds did the job. fast breaks will be more effective with the faster big men as well.

Yes I believe defense will be better. Offense I'm not sure. It will be different and could be better but we'll see.

I just dont think people should get carried away thinking we will be this infinitely more athletic thus better team because I think they will, at least initially, be very disappointed. If we were that much better without Stainbrook then why did he start and play so much last year? He was a very good unique player that our offense pretty much ran through, despite his limited athleticism compare to a Reynolds or Farr.

[MADXSTER]

A possible 1-3-1 line up could be 6'5 JP, then 6'5 Bluiett, 6'10 Farr, 6'10 Reynolds with 6'6 Sumner on the bottom.

This is a tall and long team.

[xu82]

Yes I believe defense will be better. Offense I'm not sure. It will be different and could be better but we'll see.

I just dont think people should get carried away thinking we will be this infinitely more athletic thus better team because I think they will, at least initially, be very disappointed. If we were that much better without Stainbrook then why did he start and play so much last year? He was a very good unique player that our offense pretty much ran through, despite his limited athleticism compare to a Reynolds or Farr.

I just hope we don't have guys chucking up 3's all game for lack of a better offense. Unless they're going in, of course. :)

[D-West & PO-Z]

I just hope we don't have guys chucking up 3's all game for lack of a better offense. Unless they're going in, of course. :)

Ha, same. Farr is going to be on the court a lot more so who knows! In all honesty I really expect Farr to continue the tradition on senior Muskies really stepping up and finishing off their careers strong despite mixed results from previous seasons.

[xu82]

A possible 1-3-1 line up could be 6'5 JP, then 6'5 Bluiett, 6'10 Farr, 6'10 Reynolds with 6'6 Sumner on the bottom.

This is a tall and long team.

That sounds great, and I hope to see it. I do wonder how we will be at stopping ball penetration against 6'0" or less water bugs.

[MADXSTER]

Yes I believe defense will be better. Offense I'm not sure. It will be different and could be better but we'll see.

I just dont think people should get carried away thinking we will be this infinitely more athletic thus better team because I think they will, at least initially, be very disappointed. If we were that much better without Stainbrook then why did he start and play so much last year? He was a very good unique player that our offense pretty much ran through, despite his limited athleticism compare to a Reynolds or Farr.

The biggest reason this team had to run the offense through Stainbrook was because our outside shooting disappeared as the season progressed. The more it disappeared the more important Stainbrook became. Xavier will have more consistant play from Myles and Bluiett, and Sumner will help out on that end as well. Farr will shoot better than last year(can't be worse) and from what I hear, 6'10 London has a very good outside shot.

I too think the offense will look different. I think it will end up being better and harder to guard. O'Mara learned a lot from Stainbrook and when he is in the game, look for him to pass out of the post like the big man did last year.

[xudash]

I think that might be undervaluing the importance of Stainbrook. Yes without him the lineup gets more athletic but that doesnt mean it is better. I expect a big year for XU but there will be some major adjustment without Stain in the middle. He was our best post player by far on offense, scoring and passing. You could always count on him to make the right decision with ball in his hands in the middle. Farr and Jalen are really going to need to step up.

Didn't mean to undervalue him at all.

I simply believe we'll be more speed-centric and athletic BY NECESSITY. He was a unique talent, and we will have to certainly make some adjustments.

But it is fun to consider the possibility of a highly athletic, fast - hopefully intelligent - Xavier squad cranking up the torque in the machine.

[MADXSTER]

That sounds great, and I hope to see it. I do wonder how we will be at stopping ball penetration against 6'0" or less water bugs.

They may be able to penetrate but they are going to have to alter their shots considerably. From what I hear, Sumner is pretty quick(Semaj quick) on offense. If he can defend anything like Semaj on defense then Xavier will be good to go. We shall see.

[D-West & PO-Z]

The biggest reason this team had to run the offense through Stainbrook was because our outside shooting disappeared as the season progressed. The more it disappeared the more important Stainbrook became. Xavier will have more consistant play from Myles and Bluiett, and Sumner will help out on that end as well. Farr will shoot better than last year(can't be worse) and from what I hear, 6'10 London has a very good outside shot.

I too think the offense will look different. I think it will end up being better and harder to guard. O'Mara learned a lot from Stainbrook and when he is in the game, look for him to pass out of the post like the big man did last year.

I disagree, I think we ran the offense through him because he was our best offense, whether he shot or passed it was our best option. 3 point shooting can be tricky as a guy can be on fire or go cold, hopefully we dont rely on it too heavily because it can really burn you if your off, just ask Nova. Hopefully we dont run into any ridiculous slumps from the outside though as we have a times in the past, and I do expect Myles and Trevon to take big jumps. I think Myles will really take his game to another level by improving his ability to take it to the bucket. I think his 3 point shooting has been really good in the past its just a matter of not slumping, but sometimes that is unavoidable and hard to predict.

[SemajParlor]

A possible 1-3-1 line up could be 6'5 JP, then 6'5 Bluiett, 6'10 Farr, 6'10 Reynolds with 6'6 Sumner on the bottom.

This is a tall and long team.

I expect to see this a lot this year. Macura at the top of the 1-3-1 was very effective for a variety of reasons.

[xu82]

They may be able to penetrate but they are going to have to alter their shots considerably. From what I hear, Sumner is pretty quick(Semaj quick) on offense. If he can defend anything like Semaj on defense then Xavier will be good to go. We shall see.

Sounds good, but my fear is penetration>help rotates to defend>dish>dunk. At least early on. Hopefully we have defenders to stop this. Sorry, as a Bills fan I tend to think this way....

[xu82]

I expect to see this a lot this year. Macura at the top of the 1-3-1 was very effective for a variety of reasons.

Yep, not only is he long, but he's one of those pesky guys you like a lot more on your team than the other team!

[waggy]

Sounds good, but my fear is penetration>help rotates to defend>dish>dunk. At least early on. Hopefully we have defenders to stop this. Sorry, as a Bills fan I tend to think this way....

It was an issue for Sumner just the little he played last year. Lots of room for improvement.

[MADXSTER]

I disagree, I think we ran the offense through him because he was our best offense, whether he shot or passed it was our best option. 3 point shooting can be tricky as a guy can be on fire or go cold, hopefully we dont rely on it too heavily because it can really burn you if your off, just ask Nova. Hopefully we dont run into any ridiculous slumps from the outside though as we have a times in the past, and I do expect Myles and Trevon to take big jumps. I think Myles will really take his game to another level by improving his ability to take it to the bucket. I think his 3 point shooting has been really good in the past its just a matter of not slumping, but sometimes that is unavoidable and hard to predict.

Every year teams have to fill in the gaps from losing players(graduating, transfers etc). IMO Xavier's gaps are not as glaring as most years. That is in no way to take away from Dee and Stain's accomplishments. Xavier's issues are more about the fact they they are so deep with good players, who is going to get floor time. Now that's a good problem to have.

Players may go through shooting slumps but this team has a multitude of good shooters. Yes Nova shit the bed but they had a hell of a run up until that point.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Every year teams have to fill in the gaps from losing players(graduating, transfers etc). IMO Xavier's gaps are not as glaring as most years. That is in no way to take away from Dee and Stain's accomplishments. Xavier's issues are more about the fact they they are so deep with good players, who is going to get floor time. Now that's a good problem to have.

Players may go through shooting slumps but this team has a multitude of good shooters. Yes Nova shit the bed but they had a hell of a run up until that point.

Yeah, I'm not worried about our perimeter play I think it will be very good. Just hope Jalen and Farr step it up along with Sean down low on the offensive end. We will need some presence offensively in the post. Obviously Jalen has had success but will need to sustain it for a full season.

[GIMMFD]

Yeah, I'm not worried about our perimeter play I think it will be very good. Just hope Jalen and Farr step it up along with Sean down low on the offensive end. We will need some presence offensively in the post. Obviously Jalen has had success but will need to sustain it for a full season.

I just hope he matured enough not to commit stupid fouls and technicals.

[IM4X]

I expect a big year for XU but there will be some major adjustment without Stain in the middle. He was our best post player by far on offense, scoring and passing. You could always count on him to make the right decision with ball in his hands in the middle. Farr and Jalen are really going to need to step up.

Well said. Exactly how I feel and what concerns me a little this year. Matt could score on anybody and does indeed make such smart decisions when he has the ball. It would be awesome if Matt was able to come back and help out the bigs with this part of their game.

[xu82]

I just hope he matured enough not to commit stupid fouls and technicals.

That's a low bar, but a serious concern.

[Emp]

That sounds great, and I hope to see it. I do wonder how we will be at stopping ball penetration against 6'0" or less water bugs.

This.as much as I like Sumner and Macura on offense, and better size match ups vs. "big guard" teams like Nova, small fast jitterbug guards and the deep screening teams like Butler may cause troubles. A good early test will be Walton at Michigan.

[XfansinKy]

I'm really excited about this season but I still can't get this damn sword up. :ashamed:

[Emp]

I'm really excited about this season but I still can't get this damn sword up. :ashamed:

I've heard size matters in that sword raising gig. Try a lighter model and work up to the Mel Gibson.

[xu82]

I've heard size matters in that sword raising gig. Try a lighter model and work up to the Mel Gibson.

Or you just seek out those little blue pills... as I've seen on commercials.

[XUMIOH12]

counting down the days until the season actually starts...

[bleedXblue]

This.as much as I like Sumner and Macura on offense, and better size match ups vs. "big guard" teams like Nova, small fast jitterbug guards and the deep screening teams like Butler may cause troubles. A good early test will be Walton at Michigan.

On the flip side wont that create matchup problems for them as well?

[Chalmers0]

This.as much as I like Sumner and Macura on offense, and better size match ups vs. "big guard" teams like Nova, small fast jitterbug guards and the deep screening teams like Butler may cause troubles. A good early test will be Walton at Michigan.

Sumner has fantastic foot speed and lateral quickness, I'm really not worried about him against smaller PGs, in fact I think his length could be a huge problem for them.

Macura is going to be a defensive liability against any human with a pulse in man to man defense, regardless of their size.

[X-Fan]

Macura is going to be a defensive liability against any human with a pulse in man to man defense, regardless of their size.

Are you basing this off of his performance as a Frosh? It's not like he's "slow footed", and he did very well in the 1-3-1. I have a feeling he's going to prove a lot of people wrong in that regard this year.

[bleedXblue]

Are you basing this off of his performance as a Frosh? It's not like he's "slow footed", and he did very well in the 1-3-1. I have a feeling he's going to prove a lot of people wrong in that regard this year.

I agree that Macura struggled last year, but he will improve. I love him in the 1-3-1 as well.

[Chalmers0]

Are you basing this off of his performance as a Frosh? It's not like he's "slow footed", and he did very well in the 1-3-1. I have a feeling he's going to prove a lot of people wrong in that regard this year.

I absolutely love Macura in the 1-3-1 as well, I just don't think he is ever going to be an average on ball, man to man defender.

[XUFan09]

I absolutely love Macura in the 1-3-1 as well, I just don't think he is ever going to be an average on ball, man to man defender.
Yep. He was embarrassingly bad last year. Maybe he'll only be bad this season.

[XU 87]

Macura has the athleticism to be a good defender. This year it looks like he has the strength to be a good defender, which he lacked last year.

[xunorm]

Think of the 1 - 3 - 1 with the length that we might have on the court

Macura / Abell
Bluiett - Reynolds - Sumner / LAJ / Myles
Farr / O'Mara

With most of the options, length is usually the key to cut off passing lanes. It could be very helpful this year to keep the bigs and wings out of foul trouble. I would think a 2-3 zone might be a possibility as well with the potential length on the back line and no one under 6'1 up front.

[SC in DC]

My guess is, tho JP won't win BE defensive player of the year, I think he will be much improved, AND piss off enough opponents and get in their heads so much, that they won't be able to jump off of one foot!

[XUFan09]

My guess is, tho JP won't win BE defensive player of the year, I think he will be much improved, AND piss off enough opponents and get in their heads so much, that they won't be able to jump off of one foot!
I really wouldn't expect *much* improvement. Nothing from practice so far has suggested that, though he'll still get minutes with his offense.

I agree that with his athleticism, Macura could be a good defender, but he seems to lack the instincts for defending in man-to-man. Those instincts can be developed, but like offensive instincts, there's a limit to how much they can be developed by this age.

[paulxu]

JP Macura= Brad Redford 2.0.

Here we go..........

[X-Fan]

JP Macura= Brad Redford 2.0.

Here we go..........

Are you saying JP will be the "whipping boy" many made Brad out to be?

If you are saying JP will not have a more productive career than Brad, I completely disagree. Unlike Brad, JP has height and the ability to get his shot off. I predict JP will hit a number of BIG shots before his time at X is complete.

[MADXSTER]

Paul, stick to what you do best....drinking.

JP anticipates well when it comes to reading passes on defense. He sees the floor incredibly well and has some ridiculous no look passes. He has a decent handle and is fearless. He is not the best on the ball defender but will improve as time goes on. I would put him in the catagory of BJ Raymond. Onions!

[XfansinKy]

I got a feeling after reading the article on Sumner that him n Jalen are gonna be studs with Sumner obviously having to get through that wall. He's 185lbs now. Same as Kobe as a rookie.

[xu82]

JP is far from a one trick pony on offense, and his man D will come around to some extent. It always does. He's also entertaining as hell driving opponents nuts with his pesky play! Just be smart about it.

[XUFan09]

The best Xavier player comparison to JP is Jordan Crawford. Both are trigger happy offensive juggernauts, for good or for bad, both see the court really well and can throw some wicked passes, and both are not good at defense. Though never defensively gifted, Crawford's issues on defense were probably more about effort than ability, and Mack eventually got him more committed to that side of the court. JP gives a good effort but just has a lot to learn and just isn't as defensively talented. The 1-3-1 suits him so well because his defensive instincts are to pester and gamble while not caring about fundamentally sound positioning or anticipating the offensive player. Those same instincts get him burned repeatedly in man-to-man.

[XUMIOH12]

While the two players both have similar playing styles, I don't think I would be comparing Macura to Crawford.

[xukeith]

While the two players both have similar playing styles, I don't think I would be comparing Macura to Crawford.

Agree. What a stretch.
Crawford's talent might make him the most talented guard to done an X uniform.

[XUFan09]

When I was making my post, I wondered to myself: "Maybe I should put a disclaimer in that I am not suggesting J.P. Macura is as good of player as Jordan Crawford." Then I thought to myself, "Nah, that's not necessary. It should be obvious to anyone that I'm just comparing their styles and their relative strengths and weaknesses. It would take a significant logical leap to believe that I'm making any claims about the relative caliber of player. Right?" Then a couple people go and make exactly that logical leap...

You know, it is possible to compare two players together without demanding that they be similar in overall ability. In fact, it's done all the time, as expecting two players to also be on the same level while making other comparisons is just silly (and severely limiting). You must be the same guys that think whenever someone compares playing styles of a college player and an NBA player that they must be claiming the college player is NBA-ready too.

[paulxu]

Paul, stick to what you do best....drinking.

Yes I do.
Just stirring the pot a little.

[SC in DC]

09, I think your comparison was dead on! JP might be a bit more "feisty" tho.

[Milhouse]

I got a feeling after reading the article on Sumner that him n Jalen are gonna be studs with Sumner obviously having to get through that wall. He's 185lbs now. Same as Kobe as a rookie.

Haha I loved this.

[XUFan09]

09, I think your comparison was dead on! JP might be a bit more "feisty" tho.
Lol Crawford had his own way of pissing off opponents, but yeah, I think Macura takes it to another level.

[XUMIOH12]

When I was making my post, I wondered to myself: "Maybe I should put a disclaimer in that I am not suggesting J.P. Macura is as good of player as Jordan Crawford." Then I thought to myself, "Nah, that's not necessary. It should be obvious to anyone that I'm just comparing their styles and their relative strengths and weaknesses. It would take a significant logical leap to believe that I'm making any claims about the relative caliber of player. Right?" Then a couple people go and make exactly that logical leap...

You know, it is possible to compare two players together without demanding that they be similar in overall ability. In fact, it's done all the time, as expecting two players to also be on the same level while making other comparisons is just silly (and severely limiting). You must be the same guys that think whenever someone compares playing styles of a college player and an NBA player that they must be claiming the college player is NBA-ready too.

I know what you meant. They both play the same style, Macura just isn't as good at it. They both take some ill-advised shots, but have the range and ability to make some big plays/shots. I just don't like the comparison because it will make some people on here think that Macura will be as good a player as Crawford.

[XUFan09]

I know what you meant. They both play the same style, Macura just isn't as good at it. They both take some ill-advised shots, but have the range and ability to make some big plays/shots. I just don't like the comparison because it will make some people on here think that Macura will be as good a player as Crawford.

Lol what a silly reason. Anyone that thinks that about Macura thought it before reading the comparison too. A comparison of two players by one person on a messageboard is not going to make anyone come up with new expectations for one of those players.

[XUMIOH12]

Lol what a silly reason. Anyone that thinks that about Macura thought it before reading the comparison too. A comparison of two players by one person on a messageboard is not going to make anyone come up with new expectations for one of those players.

I should have said that it will affirm someone's belief on here, and not make them believe that. It's kind of a weak reason, but I just don't like the comparison. There is just such a difference in the level of play. The key similarities are the size and the lack of conscience when taking shots (which I think is good).

[ArizonaXUGrad]

This year will be a fun year to watch like always. No assurances at the PG spot, Austin and Sumner are relative unknowns. We don't know what they will bring. Toss in the loss of production from Stainbrook, who bailed us out of bad offensive sets with his skill 5 feet and in. We hopefully add some shooters in London and Sumner off of the bench.

If we get decent to good play from the PG spot this year and Reynolds plays 27-30mpg, this will be a scary good team with all the shooters we have. Hopefully they all don't go cold at the same time like last year.

Hard not to look forward even with Farr/Abell and most likely Reynolds departing, adding Gastin/Goodin/Ekiyor/Jones XU just keeps chugging along.

[casualfan]

This year will be a fun year to watch like always. No assurances at the PG spot, Austin and Sumner are relative unknowns. We don't know what they will bring. Toss in the loss of production from Stainbrook, who bailed us out of bad offensive sets with his skill 5 feet and in. We hopefully add some shooters in London and Sumner off of the bench.

If we get decent to good play from the PG spot this year and Reynolds plays 27-30mpg, this will be a scary good team with all the shooters we have. Hopefully they all don't go cold at the same time like last year.

Hard not to look forward even with Farr/Abell and most likely Reynolds departing, adding Gastin/Goodin/Ekiyor/Jones XU just keeps chugging along.

This is one of the things I am very curious to see this year.

Myles and Remy were good last year, but after that there was a pretty large drop-off to JP and Trevon who were just ok at right around 32-33%.

I'd like to see those guys get that % up. I'm also curious to see what Larry and Sumner bring from the outside. It's kind of amazing that Larry didn't shoot a single three last year.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Good point, Austin is kind of a question mark for his shooting ability. Not all players improve, you hope they do. 1/3 is not bad in college and you hope that shooters like JP and Trevon up that percentage with knowledge of the speed of the college game.


I'm also curious to see what Larry and Sumner bring from the outside. It's kind of amazing that Larry didn't shoot a single three last year.

[MADXSTER]

This is one of the things I am very curious to see this year.

Myles and Remy were good last year, but after that there was a pretty large drop-off to JP and Trevon who were just ok at right around 32-33%.

I'd like to see those guys get that % up. I'm also curious to see what Larry and Sumner bring from the outside. It's kind of amazing that Larry didn't shoot a single three last year.

The difference is Remy and Myles being upper classman and JP and Trevon being freshman. Freshman year is always tough since the players are not used to the everyday pounding and extended season. That is typically why you see a jump between freshman and sophomore year.

[bleedXblue]

I see Myles, Trevon and JP all shooting it better from 3 this year. Austin and Sumner will be the wild cards. I have no expectation for London. I hope he can get some minutes and he's more offensively than a guy who wants to hang around the perimeter.

[bobbiemcgee]

Reynolds 15 ppg
Bluiett 17 ppg
Farr 5 ppg
Sumner 11 ppg
Macura 10 ppg
Myles 15 ppg
O'Mara 5 ppg
Abell 10 ppg
LAJ 5 ppg
London 2 ppg
Gates 2 ppg
Others 2 ppg

[XUFan09]

Lol did you add those up?

[GIMMFD]

Lol did you add those up?

80+ right? BEST OFFENSE IN THE COUNTRY GUYS!!!!

[xu82]

Reynolds 15 ppg
Bluiett 17 ppg
Farr 5 ppg
Sumner 11 ppg
Macura 10 ppg
Myles 15 ppg
O'Mara 5 ppg
Abell 10 ppg
LAJ 5 ppg
London 2 ppg
Gates 2 ppg
Others 2 ppg


And to think I was worried about defense.... we don't need no stinkin' defense!

[SemajParlor]

When I was making my post, I wondered to myself: "Maybe I should put a disclaimer in that I am not suggesting J.P. Macura is as good of player as Jordan Crawford." Then I thought to myself, "Nah, that's not necessary. It should be obvious to anyone that I'm just comparing their styles and their relative strengths and weaknesses. It would take a significant logical leap to believe that I'm making any claims about the relative caliber of player. Right?" Then a couple people go and make exactly that logical leap...

You know, it is possible to compare two players together without demanding that they be similar in overall ability. In fact, it's done all the time, as expecting two players to also be on the same level while making other comparisons is just silly (and severely limiting). You must be the same guys that think whenever someone compares playing styles of a college player and an NBA player that they must be claiming the college player is NBA-ready too.


Your player comparison stinks! Now let me make a lazy JP comparison to a random white guard like Redford as so many on here do.

[XUFan09]

Your player comparison stinks! Now let me make a lazy JP comparison to a random white guard like Redford as so many on here do.
Ha, seriously. It's like an unwritten rule for a lot of people.

[paulxu]

Hot Damn! 99 ppg!

[Emp]

Mr Austin may beg to differ -- or will be going for the single season assist record. My sources say he's riding a hover board and sporting a orange Mohawk.
Reynolds 15 ppg
Bluiett 17 ppg
Farr 5 ppg
Sumner 11 ppg
Macura 10 ppg
Myles 15 ppg
O'Mara 5 ppg
Abell 10 ppg
LAJ 5 ppg
London 2 ppg
Gates 2 ppg
Others 2 ppg

[Milhouse]

Yeah when was the last time we had 3 players average 15 ppg?

Ever?

[Juice]

Yeah when was the last time we had 3 players average 15 ppg?

Ever?

Yeah, I'd put Trevon, Jalen, and Myles all within the 9-12 points a game range.

[muskiefan82]

Your player comparison stinks! Now let me make a lazy JP comparison to a random white guard like Redford as so many on here do.


Ha, seriously. It's like an unwritten rule for a lot of people.

I would rather lazily compare him to J.J. Redick. That would work for me.

[paulxu]

Yeah when was the last time we had 3 players average 15 ppg?

Ever?

If I can take 3 from DFW's 20 and 18 and give them to Chalmers, we did it twice with Sato.

[xu82]

One of the things I like most about JP is that he's tall enough to shoot over you, but if you try to close out on him he's athlectic enough and has the skill set to go past you and finish at the rim or make a nice dump off pass. (That, and he's fun to watch as his peskiness gets under people's skin!)

[XUMIOH12]

Ha, seriously. It's like an unwritten rule for a lot of people.

How is Macura any different than Brad Redford, Brian Walsh or Johnny Wolf?

[xu82]

How is Macura any different than Brad Redford, Brian Walsh or Johnny Wolf?

Umm, you're kidding, right? Or have you just not watched much? I'll go with kidding.... it can be so hard to tell without the magic font.

[Masterofreality]

Man I wish the first game was tonight!!!

[bobbiemcgee]

Hot Damn! 99 ppg!

I may be a tad optimistic. Maybe just 94 for Team 94. Guess you can tell I'm psyched for the season to begin. :dizzy:

[xu82]

I may be a tad optimistic. Maybe just 94 for Team 94. Guess you can tell I'm psyched for the season to begin. :dizzy:

Don't give in.... A single free throw by Austin and we hit the century mark!

[XUMIOH12]

Umm, you're kidding, right? Or have you just not watched much? I'll go with kidding.... it can be so hard to tell without the magic font.

Just didn't use the magic font

[bobbiemcgee]

Is it time for "who will win"? X vs Northwood? :sign-wtf:

[X-band '01]

That's next week - today is the "Secret" scrimmage against Illinois in Indy.

[xu82]

Just didn't use the magic font
Ahhh, I should have known..... but you never know.

[bobbiemcgee]

Will Muskie be flashing his internet XUHoops credentials to cover the "not so secret scrimmage" today....or at least hiding somewhere in the rafters?

[Muskie]

Will Muskie be flashing his internet XUHoops credentials to cover the "not so secret scrimmage" today....or at least hiding somewhere in the rafters?

Ha. I wish. Maybe Bally is there? He's sneaky.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[paulxu]

Will Muskie be flashing his internet XUHoops credentials to cover the "not so secret scrimmage" today....or at least hiding somewhere in the rafters?

Maybe he could borrow Swampy's pass.

[X-band '01]

Maybe he could borrow Swampy's pass.

As Blackburn Review once asked, is he the one who smells like cat and ass?

[XUMIOH12]

Ahhh, I should have known..... but you never know.

You never know, especially when it comes to white guards with Xavier fans...

[paulxu]

That's next week - today is the "Secret" scrimmage against Illinois in Indy.

I'm impressed that Mack made it home to post Halloween pics of his kids after the scrimmage.

Wonder how we did?

[xu82]

I'm impressed that Mack made it home to post Halloween pics of his kids after the scrimmage.

Wonder how we did?

If I had to guess, there is a lot of extra Snickers and Skittles laying around. Flush that stuff!

[Muskeagle]

On the Macura comparison to Crawford (which I think was a pretty good comparison of styles), you have to also remember that the Crawford we saw was essentially a junior and we've only seen Macura as a freshman. Moreover, I'd argue that Crawford was asked to shoulder a ton of the offense, whereas Macura has not been. Is Macura going to be as good an offensive player as Crawford? No. But Macura's junior season should be a lot closer than the people who are laughing at the connection are implying.

[X-Fan]

I'm impressed that Mack made it home to post Halloween pics of his kids after the scrimmage.

Wonder how we did?
Ya, I'm also really curious to hear how the scrimmage went.

[Xtemporaneous]

The scrimmage is today 1pm.

[Cheesehead]

The scrimmage is today 1pm.

I would like a full report of the secret scrimmage. Anyone?

[XUBob]

We were all a day off the scrimmage is today at 1:00, hoping to get news by tonight but remember it is a secret.

[sirthought]

On the Macura comparison to Crawford (which I think was a pretty good comparison of styles), you have to also remember that the Crawford we saw was essentially a junior and we've only seen Macura as a freshman. Moreover, I'd argue that Crawford was asked to shoulder a ton of the offense, whereas Macura has not been. Is Macura going to be as good an offensive player as Crawford? No. But Macura's junior season should be a lot closer than the people who are laughing at the connection are implying.

I think this is a pretty fair guess of the comparison. Macura could become a truly great scorer, but he's not there yet. If the team gears more plays for him to get open, well watch out.

I'd say he's already on his way to playing better defense than Crawford did, but that's effort more than talent…and Crawford didn't have to work as hard to get playing time on that team.

[Juice]

I think this is a pretty fair guess of the comparison. Macura could become a truly great scorer, but he's not there yet. If the team gears more plays for him to get open, well watch out.

I'd say he's already on his way to playing better defense than Crawford did, but that's effort more than talent…and Crawford didn't have to work as hard to get playing time on that team.

There is no way JP is a better defender than Crawford.

[casualfan]

ESPN did a CBB top 100 players list. (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/13991627/cbbrank-counting-top-100-players-college-basketball-2015-2016)

Jalen comes in at #91 with the following note:

91. Jalen Reynolds, Xavier Musketeers
Junior | Forward
Score: 40.54

If he stays out of foul trouble (a big "if"), the 6-foot-10 Reynolds can dominate a game. In fact the junior will have the opportunity to do just that for coach Chris Mack now that Matt Stainbrook has departed.

Other players of note:

2- Kris Dunn- Providence
8- Ron Baker- Wichita State
13- Demetrius Jackson- Notre Dame
14- Fred VanVleet- Wichita State
16- Caris Levert- Michigan
32- Henry Ellenson- Marquette
40- Zach Auguste- Notre Dame
43- DSR- Georgetown
46- Jalen Brunson- Nova
56- Kellen Dunham- Butler
67- Octavius Ellis- Cincinnati
70- Isaac Copeland- Georgetown
71- Roosevelt Jones- Butler
73- Ryan Arcidiacano- Nova

[bleedXblue]

ESPN did a CBB top 100 players list. (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/13991627/cbbrank-counting-top-100-players-college-basketball-2015-2016)

Jalen comes in at #91 with the following note:

91. Jalen Reynolds, Xavier Musketeers
Junior | Forward
Score: 40.54

If he stays out of foul trouble (a big "if"), the 6-foot-10 Reynolds can dominate a game. In fact the junior will have the opportunity to do just that for coach Chris Mack now that Matt Stainbrook has departed.

Other players of note:

2- Kris Dunn- Providence
8- Ron Baker- Wichita State
13- Demetrius Jackson- Notre Dame
14- Fred VanVleet- Wichita State
16- Caris Levert- Michigan
32- Henry Ellenson- Marquette
40- Zach Auguste- Notre Dame
43- DSR- Georgetown
46- Jalen Brunson- Nova
56- Kellen Dunham- Butler
67- Octavius Ellis- Cincinnati
70- Isaac Copeland- Georgetown
71- Roosevelt Jones- Butler
73- Ryan Arcidiacano- Nova

If they provide this list at the end of the year, there is no way that Trevon isn't on it.

[casualfan]

If they provide this list at the end of the year, there is no way that Trevon isn't on it.

I tend to agree, but I do always find these lists interesting as I think they tend to give a pretty good overview of the depth out there in college basketball.

Look at some of the guys at the bottom of the list.

Sterling Gibbs at 93 put up 16-plus points, almost 4 assists and shot 43% from three last year.
Dorian Finney-Smith at 100 put up 13-plus, 6 rebounds, and shot 43% from three.

Like, those guys are REALLY good and they barely made it.

[Xville]

Kris Dunn #2...wow. the guy is really really good but 2? I hope for the league overall he is that good this year but that's a bit surprising to me.

[Milhouse]

Kris Dunn #2...wow. the guy is really really good but 2? I hope for the league overall he is that good this year but that's a bit surprising to me.

His stat line was insane last year.... 16 ppg, 6 RPG, 7.6 APG. He's also just as good on Defense as on Offense, that's in a major conference and he took the second most shots despite having a better 3P % and FG% than Henton. He's what I wish Semaj turned into.

Add him to Xavier's squad and we're a final 4 dark horse...maybe note even dark horse.

The real outrage should be an unproven freshman at #1. I believe Cliff Alexander was listed as a top 10 player coming into the season last year too....

[Pluto]

I lost respect for that list when they have DSR as a forward.

[Xville]

I lost respect for that list when they have DSR as a forward.

Funny I actually went back to see if they had him listed as a pg or SG and saw forward and I was wondering if I was drunk all last season.

Anyways Jalen Brunson is going to be an absolute stud I believe this year. The kid is the real deal.

[Lamont Sanford]

How the hell is Octavius Ellis #67 on this list?!? Were they just throwing UC a bone? Gary Clark is clearly their best player.

[THRILLHOUSE]

SI's ranking of every team - http://www.si.com/college-basketball/2015/11/03/every-team-college-basketball-ranked-north-carolina-kentucky-kansas

(X is ranked #21)

[D-West & PO-Z]

His stat line was insane last year.... 16 ppg, 6 RPG, 7.6 APG. He's also just as good on Defense as on Offense, that's in a major conference and he took the second most shots despite having a better 3P % and FG% than Henton. He's what I wish Semaj turned into.

Add him to Xavier's squad and we're a final 4 dark horse...maybe note even dark horse.

The real outrage should be an unproven freshman at #1. I believe Cliff Alexander was listed as a top 10 player coming into the season last year too....

I think Dwayne Wade every time I see him play.

[xufan2434]

SI's ranking of every team - http://www.si.com/college-basketball/2015/11/03/every-team-college-basketball-ranked-north-carolina-kentucky-kansas

(X is ranked #21)

I feel like SI always gives X more love than the other sites do. Nice to see. Going to be an exciting year. I think top 4 in BE are all great matchups to watch and Providence has Dunn and Marquette is bringing in a ton of talent. Surprised to see X over Butler, but I'll take it

[casualfan]

How the hell is Octavius Ellis #67 on this list?!? Were they just throwing UC a bone? Gary Clark is clearly their best player.

I think this might be a case, similar to kellen dunham, where xavier fans have a skewed view based on the small sample size of one or two games vs us.

There's no denying clark had the better game against us, but at least when it comes to stats Ellis was better for them over the course of the year.

The DSR forward thing has to be a typo, right? That's just comical.

[casualfan]

His stat line was insane last year.... 16 ppg, 6 RPG, 7.6 APG. He's also just as good on Defense as on Offense, that's in a major conference and he took the second most shots despite having a better 3P % and FG% than Henton. He's what I wish Semaj turned into.

Add him to Xavier's squad and we're a final 4 dark horse...maybe note even dark horse.

The real outrage should be an unproven freshman at #1. I believe Cliff Alexander was listed as a top 10 player coming into the season last year too....

Ben Simmons is the truth. God only knows what their goober of a coach will do with him, but in a vacuum he is really really really good.

I think they have Skal and Jamal Murray too low.

[novachap]

Funny I actually went back to see if they had him listed as a pg or SG and saw forward and I was wondering if I was drunk all last season.

Anyways Jalen Brunson is going to be an absolute stud I believe this year. The kid is the real deal.



A lot of hype around this young man. Nova certainly hopes he lives up to it. What I have seen of him, he is really good. If Archie wasn't there it would be him and Booth (who is a real gamer) in the back court no questions asked.

Not complaining on having 2 guys on the list, but what is interesting is that the probable leading scorer, best 3%, probable 2nd best rebounder and guy with an unbelievable motor is no where on this list or the preseason Big East teams. If Josh Hart responds like Hilliard did to the perceived "snub", he is going to have one hell of a year.

BTW, I think our games are going to be classics this year. X's strength down low is Nova's weakness and Nova's outside game is tough for X to defend. Going to be a fun year! Good luck!

[XUFan09]

A lot of hype around this young man. Nova certainly hopes he lives up to it. What I have seen of him, he is really good. If Archie wasn't there it would be him and Booth (who is a real gamer) in the back court no questions asked.

Not complaining on having 2 guys on the list, but what is interesting is that the probable leading scorer, best 3%, probable 2nd best rebounder and guy with an unbelievable motor is no where on this list or the preseason Big East teams. If Josh Hart responds like Hilliard did to the perceived "snub", he is going to have one hell of a year.

BTW, I think our games are going to be classics this year. X's strength down low is Nova's weakness and Nova's outside game is tough for X to defend. Going to be a fun year! Good luck!

Lol this is the first year in the conference that Xavier has a reasonable chance of defending against Nova. The Stainbrook/Philmore combo followed by the Stainbrook/other combo down low were just brutal defensively against Nova's four-out system.