2016-2017 Starters for the Opener

[MADXSTER]

Figured this deserved its own thread....

PG - Edmund Sumner
SG - Myles Davis
SF - JP Macura
PF - Trevon Bluiett
PF - RaShid Gaston

I'm actually not a big fan of this lineup from a defensive position.
- While Edmund may resemble Semaj on offense, his defense was lacking. He also was not the best help defender as well.
- Myles has gotten better every year and will be better next year. He just won't be a lock down defender.
- JP was 6th man for a reason. I actually thought he improved significantly in M2M by the end of the season.
- Trevon, like Myles has gotten better and will be better but will not be a lock down defender.
- RaShid is a 5th year senior. May end up being the best defender by position on the team.

It is possible that Trevon may move to the SF position and Kaiser Gates could sqeeze into the PF position but I think Mack will try to reward JP for all of his hard work.

I think O'Mara will be the first big off the bench and Tyrque Jones and Eddie Ekiyor will battle for the remaining 5 minutes of play like O'Mara got this season.

LAJ will see similar playing time as this past season. LAJ has got to get a 3 pt shot. Period. Someone else mentioned that when he is out there it is like the defense is playing 5 on 4. LAJ has to be able to keep the defense honest.

The Jury is out on Makinde London(6'10" 220). Not sure where he would fit in unless he plays the PF position. Guys like Jessie Govan(6'10" 270) of Georgetown would have their way with him. Will he put on 20lbs of muscle and does he want to put on 20lbs of muscle? If London were to gain 20lbs of muscle then WOW for this team come next season.

That leaves Quentin Goodin. My expectations are tempered. A lot of what ifs though. What if he plays as well as Edmund played this past season? Goodin could play the point which then would let you move Edmund to the SG or the SF while resting Myles or JP. That would give you two slashers(Goodin and Sumner) and two deep threats(Myles/JP and Trevon/Gates).

[markchal]

We really don't have much backcourt depth, do we? I guess we have to hope for something out of Goodin and that LAJ continues to progress (he had a few promising games, didn't he score like 10 against DePaul or someone), but it wouldn't surprise me to see some more of Tre at the 3 and JP at the 2. Given the development of Gates, and hopefully London, we don't really need Tre getting the bulk of his minutes there anymore to give us a decent mismatch.

[MADXSTER]

We really don't have much backcourt depth, do we? I guess we have to hope for something out of Goodin and that LAJ continues to progress (he had a few promising games, didn't he score like 10 against DePaul or someone), but it wouldn't surprise me to see some more of Tre at the 3 and JP at the 2. Given the development of Gates, and hopefully London, we don't really need Tre getting the bulk of his minutes there anymore to give us a decent mismatch.

I agree but just don't see Myles not starting. That would be one tall/long lineup though... Sumner, JP, Tre, Gates, Gaston/O'Mara

[GIMMFD]

I agree, I don't see how we can't start Smyles. He has a calming presence on the court at most times, and comes up big when we need him, I full believe he should be rewarded for the 3 great years he's had a X so far.

PG- Ed
SG - Myles
SF - Tre
PF - Gates
PF/C - Gaston

Would be my guess, I think JP keeps his 6th man status just to give us a spark when necessary, as echoed before on the board, I'm really hoping the man to man defense continues to improve, Gates showed he can be a good defender and I only look to see him increase that, Tre had some beautiful moments on defense as well, so hopefully Ed/JP/etc. show some improvement in that regard, and we're able to progress as a team, though our backcourt isn't as deep, we still have a very deep roster, with a lot of talent. I'm excited to see what the Freshmen can do for us, and how our guys progress.. goodness, is it November yet?

[TUclutch]

- JP was 6th man for a reason. I actually thought he improved significantly in M2M by the end of the season.

And that reason was because he wasn't going to start over Remy or Tre. Not that he wasn't capable or good enough to be a starter. There were just multiple guys at his position

[scoscox]

PG: Edmond Sumner, Larry Austin, Quentin Goodin
SG: Myles Davis, JP Macura
SF: Trevon Bluiett
PF: Gaston, Ekiyor, Gates, London
C: O'Mara

I'm of the opinion Jalen's coming back as well, so the frontcourt should be a nightmare for opponents. Backcourt depth looks okay and I don't think we'll need much because Trevon will never come out, Ed probably won't either, and between Myles and JP there are no other minutes to be had at SG either. As long as Larry and Quentin can spell Ed for a few minutes a game we'll be fine. If they add anything it's gravy. This is why I think we're looking at Strus and others to help/be Trevon. He's all we have at that spot right now and he could use the help and will be leaving us at some point. I think Mack would like some insurance there until we can develop another replacement there. Tear that opinion apart as you will.

[xu82]

I just love that we have so many options. Who starts and who comes off the bench I'll leave to Coach. Having JP and Farr coming off the bench was awesome. It's much more than just picking your 5 best. The critical part is having lots of talented guys to compete and choose from.

[Muncie]

I know Mack usually doesn't change his starting 5 once it's established , but with so much talent he will certainly juggle playing time based on match-ups.

[MADXSTER]

Ed could probably play the 1,2 or 3 next season. JP the 2 and 3. Myles the 1 and 2. Tre the 2,3 and 4. Gates the 3 and 4. Lots to play with there.

[Juice]

I agree but just don't see Myles not starting. That would be one tall/long lineup though... Sumner, JP, Tre, Gates, Gaston/O'Mara

Agreed. With Gates on the bench, he could be the first sub in and move Trevon back to the 3 or simply sub for him. Goodin can spell Edmond or Myles at the 1 or the 2.

[xu82]

I
PG- Ed
SG - Myles
SF - Tre
PF - Gates
PF/C - Gaston


All things considered, this would be my best guess. Gates got so many minutes this year, and I'd expect a leap from him. He adds needed size with the rest of the group. So, maybe JP stays as the 6th Man Stud? Myles seems to have a calming effect on the rest of the gang.

[AviatorX]

I would be willing to be a lot of money it will be Sumner, Davis, Macura, Bluiett, and whoever wins out between O'Mara and Gaston. I think O'Mara will make a big leap, but Gaston might start to limit early O'Mara fouls. I really don't see the staff going away from the small ball-ish lineup with Trevon at the 4 -- I think they've been building a roster to do just that.

[THRILLHOUSE]

PG- Ed
SG - Myles
SF - Tre
PF - Gates
PF/C - Gaston



I'm going with this lineup as well. Center being the toughest call, could see O'Mara getting the starting nod, depends on if his defense improves.

[xukeith]

holding out that Jalen will play 1 more year with Myles D..

[Muskie]

I agree, I don't see how we can't start Smyles. He has a calming presence on the court at most times, and comes up big when we need him, I full believe he should be rewarded for the 3 great years he's had a X so far.

PG- Ed
SG - Myles
SF - Tre
PF - Gates
PF/C - Gaston

Would be my guess, I think JP keeps his 6th man status just to give us a spark when necessary, as echoed before on the board, I'm really hoping the man to man defense continues to improve, Gates showed he can be a good defender and I only look to see him increase that, Tre had some beautiful moments on defense as well, so hopefully Ed/JP/etc. show some improvement in that regard, and we're able to progress as a team, though our backcourt isn't as deep, we still have a very deep roster, with a lot of talent. I'm excited to see what the Freshmen can do for us, and how our guys progress.. goodness, is it November yet?

I see JP staying 6 man as well. I'm getting older, but I seem to remember doing this with Posey? A spark for the under 16 time out off the bench? JP will get his minutes whether he starts or not.

[LA Muskie]

We really don't have much backcourt depth, do we? I guess we have to hope for something out of Goodin and that LAJ continues to progress (he had a few promising games, didn't he score like 10 against DePaul or someone), but it wouldn't surprise me to see some more of Tre at the 3 and JP at the 2. Given the development of Gates, and hopefully London, we don't really need Tre getting the bulk of his minutes there anymore to give us a decent mismatch.

Ed, Myles, JP, LAJ, and Q. That's not deep enough for you???

[XUMIOH12]

I would think that Ed, Myles and Trevon are locks in the starting lineup right now. Up in the air if we will go small with Trevon at the 4, or a more traditional lineup, with him at the 3. Depends a lot on if Reynolds comes back.
Bluiett should get more time at the 3 i think, with Gates and London (as well as Ekiyor/Jones) both picking up more minutes at the 4 spot. I am thinking (hoping maybe?) that London develops well and gets some good PT next season at the 4.
It will probably take longer than usual next year for the frontcourt lineups/minutes to become normalized with all of the different new options we have at those positions.

[THRILLHOUSE]

I see JP staying 6 man as well. I'm getting older, but I seem to remember doing this with Posey? A spark for the under 16 time out off the bench? JP will get his minutes whether he starts or not.

Yeah, Posey came off the bench his first two seasons, started his final season.

[XUMIOH12]

Yeah, Posey came off the bench his first two seasons, started his final season.

so they are the same player right?

[Muskie]

so they are the same player right?

I just think that spark off the bench is something that Mack really likes. It wouldn't shock me to see Macura play "starter" minutes but not actually start.

[XUMIOH12]

I just think that spark off the bench is something that Mack really likes. It wouldn't shock me to see Macura play "starter" minutes but not actually start.

he really pretty much played starter minutes this year, but will probably increase by 3-4 more minutes per game.

[xu82]

I just think that spark off the bench is something that Mack really likes. It wouldn't shock me to see Macura play "starter" minutes but not actually start.

I also think Mack likes the spark off the bench, and I JUST LOVE IT when opposing coaches say "and they're bringing these guys off the bench!"

[sirthought]

Lots of good points made here. Here's my take:

PG - Sumner, Davis, Austin, Goodin
SG - Davis, Macura, Sumner, Goodin
SF - Bluiett, Macura, Gates, London
PF - Gaston, Bluiett, Gates, London, Jones
C - O'Mara, Gaston, Gates, London

You gain nothing by leaving O'Mara on the bench at this point in his career. He's ready. Playing time will only help him learn to fix any mistakes and his big body is a huge advantage on defense. We have enough depth to let him rest for spells, but he should be out there.

Macura or Gates as the 6th man makes a ton of sense. They are versatile enough at two or three positions as needed for fouls and rest. No other players are developed enough (who shouldn't be starting) who can fit this role so well. Plus, I think JP has improved, but still makes some really boneheaded errors on D, which could really add up if he's getting starter's minutes. I'd have no complaint with Gates starting, but with everyone so high on Gaston, and me believing O'Mara should start at the 5, Gates off the bench makes more sense.

Davis really is a wild card because he pulls through so much. I know some people think he's our best on the ball defender, but I wouldn't have said that this past season.

I just have a feeling Austin will really make a leap in his knowledge of the game. He does need better shooting, but he can still help in so many ways.

I don't believe anyone here is qualified enough to make comments on Goodin or Jones getting significant playing time. It's more rare than not that first year guys play a bunch, so I'm sticking with that idea. Nice surprise if they move ahead in the lineup sooner.

London was hyped by this board so much. I'm just waiting to see something solid to make an argument for him getting more time. He may jump up well this year, which is technically his third in the program.

[GIMMFD]

Lots of good points made here. Here's my take:

PG - Sumner, Davis, Austin, Goodin
SG - Davis, Macura, Sumner, Goodin
SF - Bluiett, Macura, Gates, London
PF - Gaston, Bluiett, Gates, London, Jones
C - O'Mara, Gaston, Gates, London

You gain nothing by leaving O'Mara on the bench at this point in his career. He's ready. Playing time will only help him learn to fix any mistakes and his big body is a huge advantage on defense. We have enough depth to let him rest for spells, but he should be out there.

Macura or Gates as the 6th man makes a ton of sense. They are versatile enough at two or three positions as needed for fouls and rest. No other players are developed enough (who shouldn't be starting) who can fit this role so well. Plus, I think JP has improved, but still makes some really boneheaded errors on D, which could really add up if he's getting starter's minutes. I'd have no complaint with Gates starting, but with everyone so high on Gaston, and me believing O'Mara should start at the 5, Gates off the bench makes more sense.

Davis really is a wild card because he pulls through so much. I know some people think he's our best on the ball defender, but I wouldn't have said that this past season.

I just have a feeling Austin will really make a leap in his knowledge of the game. He does need better shooting, but he can still help in so many ways.

I don't believe anyone here is qualified enough to make comments on Goodin or Jones getting significant playing time. It's more rare than not that first year guys play a bunch, so I'm sticking with that idea. Nice surprise if they move ahead in the lineup sooner.

London was hyped by this board so much. I'm just waiting to see something solid to make an argument for him getting more time. He may jump up well this year, which is technically his third in the program.

You forgot Ekinyor however.

[AviatorX]

Lots of good points made here. Here's my take:

PG - Sumner, Davis, Austin, Goodin
SG - Davis, Macura, Sumner, Goodin
SF - Bluiett, Macura, Gates, London
PF - Gaston, Bluiett, Gates, London, Jones
C - O'Mara, Gaston, Gates, London

You gain nothing by leaving O'Mara on the bench at this point in his career. He's ready. Playing time will only help him learn to fix any mistakes and his big body is a huge advantage on defense. We have enough depth to let him rest for spells, but he should be out there.

Macura or Gates as the 6th man makes a ton of sense. They are versatile enough at two or three positions as needed for fouls and rest. No other players are developed enough (who shouldn't be starting) who can fit this role so well. Plus, I think JP has improved, but still makes some really boneheaded errors on D, which could really add up if he's getting starter's minutes. I'd have no complaint with Gates starting, but with everyone so high on Gaston, and me believing O'Mara should start at the 5, Gates off the bench makes more sense.

Davis really is a wild card because he pulls through so much. I know some people think he's our best on the ball defender, but I wouldn't have said that this past season.

I just have a feeling Austin will really make a leap in his knowledge of the game. He does need better shooting, but he can still help in so many ways.

I don't believe anyone here is qualified enough to make comments on Goodin or Jones getting significant playing time. It's more rare than not that first year guys play a bunch, so I'm sticking with that idea. Nice surprise if they move ahead in the lineup sooner.

London was hyped by this board so much. I'm just waiting to see something solid to make an argument for him getting more time. He may jump up well this year, which is technically his third in the program.

Is anyone familiar with Gaston's defensive mobility? With this lineup, I'm having a hard time seeing how X could guard Nova or Seton Hall. That's why I really think Mack will stick with the 4 in 1 out lineup. If Blueitt isn't at the 4, then you'd have to imagine it would be Gates -- otherwise, we're going to be right back on here next season discussing how XU can't guard ball screens/stretch 4's like we were in 14-15.

[XUFan09]

Davis really is a wild card because he pulls through so much. I know some people think he's our best on the ball defender, but I wouldn't have said that this past season.


You must be thinking of the wrong Davis. Dee was a great on-ball defender.

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[bobbiemcgee]

Is anyone familiar with Gaston's defensive mobility? With this lineup, I'm having a hard time seeing how X could guard Nova or Seton Hall. That's why I really think Mack will stick with the 4 in 1 out lineup. If Blueitt isn't at the 4, then you'd have to imagine it would be Gates -- otherwise, we're going to be right back on here next season discussing how XU can't guard ball screens/stretch 4's like we were in 14-15.

Archi was a stud for 'Nova. Will be much harder to replace then most think. He killed us. Losing the "Chef' will be tough too.

[AviatorX]

Archi was a stud for 'Nova. Will be much harder to replace then most think. He killed us. Losing the "Chef' will be tough too.

Obviously I agree with that. I guess my question is this: is Gaston going to be able to check Jenkins and guys like him on the perimeter? I think that's where the advantage of Bluiett at the 4 (although he clealry isn't an elite defender) lies. I'm just really of the opinion that Xavier is trying to build their team more like Nova, so I have a hard time seeing Mack go with 2 bigs all too often -- it didn't even happen that much this year, when XU had two really really good bigs.

[xu82]

The thread title is "starters for the opener". Not mid-season or the championship game. That could change.

[Masterofreality]

Obviously I agree with that. I guess my question is this: is Gaston going to be able to check Jenkins and guys like him on the perimeter? I think that's where the advantage of Bluiett at the 4 (although he clealry isn't an elite defender) lies. I'm just really of the opinion that Xavier is trying to build their team more like Nova, so I have a hard time seeing Mack go with 2 bigs all too often -- it didn't even happen that much this year, when XU had two really really good bigs.

Not sure about Gaston, but Kaiser Gates could guard Jenkins on the perimeter.

[AviatorX]

Not sure about Gaston, but Kaiser Gates could guard Jenkins on the perimeter.

Agreed. That's why I think if it's not Trevon at the 4, it'll be Gates, which obviously isn't your traditional "two bigs" lineup.

[paulxu]

I'd like to see Sumner, JP, Trevon, Kaiser and O'Mara as a lineup just for the hell of it. It would look NBAish.

[XMuskieFTW]

I'm going to break it down by minutes per game(even if they don't play every game)

Sumner: 29 LAJ: 8
Myles: 31 Quentin: 7
Trevon: 32 JP: 25
Kaiser: 20 London: 6 Jones: 2
Gaston: 21 O'mara:17 Ekiyor: 2

I think Gates starts and JP comes in for him around the 16 minute mark or for any of the 1-4 who may have picked up a foul. I'm going to give Gaston the edge over Sean strictly due to who I think will be better defensively. Not expecting a ton from our freshman next year just because we are so loaded and it's hard to get time as a freshman on a top 50 team unless you come in as a top 50 recruit.

[XUFan09]

Agreed. That's why I think if it's not Trevon at the 4, it'll be Gates, which obviously isn't your traditional "two bigs" lineup.

I think the ideal 4-out lineups have that combo forward at the 4. He can realistically defend against other bigs if the team faces a traditional lineup and he can step out to guard a perimeter player if need be. I think we're going to see Trevon at the 3 more this coming season because Gates (along with potentially London) provides the positives of a 4-out offense while being able to hold serve on the defensive end.

[GIMMFD]

I think the ideal 4-out lineups have that combo forward at the 4. He can realistically defend against other bigs if the team faces a traditional lineup and he can step out to guard a perimeter player if need be. I think we're going to see Trevon at the 3 more this coming season because Gates (along with potentially London) provides the positives of a 4-out offense while being able to hold serve on the defensive end.

I think this is true with the starting line-up and switches depending on who we're playing, will there be times where we start Tre at the 4? Maybe, who knows, the thing is Mack didn't tinker with the starting line-up much this season, so he might just let it roll until the under 16 and switch Tre over to the 4 then, the best part about this discussion is knowing how deep we are and how it'll translate to success.

[ThrowDownDBrown]

Gaston and O'Mara are going to be just like Farr and Reynolds from this year. One will start, the other will come off the bench. They'll both play around 20 minutes/game and they'll rarely play together. Personally I would like to see Kaiser start at the 4 with Trevon at the 3 and bring JP off the bench. JP stays in his familiar role and provides instant offense while playing starter minutes. Kaiser starting I think makes us better defensively and rebounding wise. He and Trevon could basically switch on who guards the 3 or 4 at all times and both are solid rebounders. If he puts on some more weight and works on his ball handling I could easily see Kaiser averaging 6-8 points and 5-6 rebounds a game.

We're going to be a very good offensive team again next year, it's our defense that must improve if we want to be playing deeper in the tournament. Ed and JP need to improve the most defensively because I don't think Myles or Trevon are going to/can get much better on that side of the ball. Kaiser could be the big wildcard with this team next year, if he improves and can give us 20 good minutes a game we could be even better then we were this year.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

All of this and just some talk of London, I am most curious how London responds with his second college off season. From what little I saw, the kid can handle the ball. If he gets good, his size, his shot, he could be a scary player.

Gates was ready out of the gate, London will take a while. I am hoping he is much more ready than we all believe and with the absence of Farr and maybe Reynolds, he may have a shot to show it.

[BandAid]

There's been some comments regarding Tre's defense, and those are most certainly justified.

That being said, he played a tremendous defense on Nigel Hayes. He was pretty locked in. I think Tre has the ability to be a decent defender, he just has to be committed to it every single time down the court.

[XMuskieFTW]

There's been some comments regarding Tre's defense, and those are most certainly justified.

That being said, he played a tremendous defense on Nigel Hayes. He was pretty locked in. I think Tre has the ability to be a decent defender, he just has to be committed to it every single time down the court.

I thought Tre was fairly good defensively against traditional 4s despite being undersized. It was the 3 spot he had trouble guarding.

[XUFan09]

I thought Tre was fairly good defensively against traditional 4s despite being undersized. It was the 3 spot he had trouble guarding.
Yup. Speedy wings could blow by him.

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[smileyy]

Position is who you can defend. I can see Tre defending nominal 4's while Kaiser get more wing players.

[sirthought]

I know some websites list him taller, but Gaston is only 6'8". Not that big for a full time center. His size worked well for his rebounding and putbacks in the MEAC, but the Big East could be a different story. I still see him playing better in the power forward spot.

O'Mara has done well overall when given the opportunity. And although we want him to play back to the basket, he can probably shoot away from the hoop better than Gaston.


I also think Bluiett will be asking to play more at small forward, because that is likely the position he'll play when he leaves school. He was nice at PF for causing matchup problems, but I think he'll continue to do well at SF.

[scoscox]

I'm really not confident in sean getting buckets beyond 3 feet.

[xu82]

I'm really not confident in sean getting buckets beyond 3 feet.

Probably because we haven't had to see him try. He's surprisingly effective from 3 feet and in. He can get to 3 feet, and he can finish very well. (It's the best thing he does.) Can he do more? Time will tell.

[XMuskieFTW]

Can you imagine how much of a nightmare Sean would be to defend if he could add a Kenny Frease like jump shot to his repertoire? That added to his moves in the post would be a lot to handle.

[scoscox]

That's true. He can develop one. Just based on the few shots he's taken, his form and his confidence in it, I don't think it's a part of his game at the moment.

[XMuskieFTW]

I'm going to break it down by minutes per game(even if they don't play every game)

Sumner: 29 LAJ: 8
Myles: 31 Quentin: 7
Trevon: 32 JP: 25
Kaiser: 20 London: 6 Jones: 2
Gaston: 21 O'mara:17 Ekiyor: 2

I think Gates starts and JP comes in for him around the 16 minute mark or for any of the 1-4 who may have picked up a foul. I'm going to give Gaston the edge over Sean strictly due to who I think will be better defensively. Not expecting a ton from our freshman next year just because we are so loaded and it's hard to get time as a freshman on a top 50 team unless you come in as a top 50 recruit.

Update:

Sumner: 30
Myles: 31 Quentin: 12
Trevon: 32 JP: 25
Kaiser: 22 Jones: 5 Ekiyor: 2
Gaston: 22 O'mara:19

Can't really see a 5th year transfer coming in this season since we are so deep and minutes for a transfer would probably be minimal.

[XUFan09]

Update:

Sumner: 30
Myles: 31 Quentin: 12
Trevon: 32 JP: 25
Kaiser: 22 Jones: 5 Ekiyor: 2
Gaston: 22 O'mara:19

Can't really see a 5th year transfer coming in this season since we are so deep and minutes for a transfer would probably be minimal.
I do think it will be tough to entice a 5th year transfer, but you're not really projecting the small-ball lineup that would make it a little easier.

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[XMuskieFTW]

I do think it will be tough to entice a 5th year transfer, but you're not really projecting the small-ball lineup that would make it a little easier.

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Yea. This projection has JP with 7 minutes at the 2 and 18 at the 3 along with Trevon having 22 at the 3 and 10 at the four. I expect we won't play as much small ball just due to personnel. That being said, if we want to get a 5th year guy willing to play 10-15 minutes a game at the 1-2 that could change all of this and would make sense.

[Xavier]

Are there many options for a good, solid 1/2 5th year transfer that would play 15 minutes a game?

[XUFan09]

Are there many options for a good, solid 1/2 5th year transfer that would play 15 minutes a game?
It sounds like you already know the likely answer to that, but we can always hope. Maybe someone with enough of an offensive game that the coaches could entice him with 20+ minutes per game.

If Kaiser Gates improves significantly this offseason, he would fill that role nicely.

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[XMuskieFTW]

The only way I can see a 5th year guy transferring in is if it's someone who is a decent college players but whose pro prospects are low, even for overseas. Maybe someone like Spike Albrecht would come in and play 15 minutes a game, but even that I just don't see happening.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

My only worries this year are the following....

- O'Mara handles the expanded role specifically defense.
- Wing defense. Like it or not, Sumner has to be that guy this year. It's not Davis or Bluiett.
- Whether we get production from one of our freshmen big men. I think we need one of Ekiyor/Jones to log 10 quality minutes.

[scoscox]

My only worries this year are the following....

- O'Mara handles the expanded role specifically defense.
- Wing defense. Like it or not, Sumner has to be that guy this year. It's not Davis or Bluiett.
- Whether we get production from one of our freshmen big men. I think we need one of Ekiyor/Jones to log 10 quality minutes.

1. I'm really excited for O'Mara down low next year. I think he could be a force offensively. Defensively, I'd think with his size he'd be fine in the paint.
2. Sumner has so much potential defensively, I hope he realizes it. With JP, Davis, and Bluiett on the wings that is a very slow group. I agree it will be an issue.
3. I think Jones could come in and give us good energy and production. I think he can get after on the glass and be active around the rim. We haven't had one of these type of guys in awhile since Travis Taylor or Jamel McLean and I'm hoping he can be a better, more physical version of those two guys. The battle at Power Forward between these two, Gates, and Gaston should be fun to watch.

[markchal]

My only worries this year are the following....

- O'Mara handles the expanded role specifically defense.
- Wing defense. Like it or not, Sumner has to be that guy this year. It's not Davis or Bluiett.
- Whether we get production from one of our freshmen big men. I think we need one of Ekiyor/Jones to log 10 quality minutes.

-Didn't O'Mara foul more frequently than Jalen even? This could be a real concern if Gaston isn't a big plus defensively.
-I really see Gates taking some of this on. He can defend a 1-4 according to Mack.
-this depends on how much Tre plays at the 4. If we have Tre/Gates/O'Mara/Gaston rotating between two spots, we'll be fine. I'm more concerned about Goodin and our perimeter depth).

[xu82]

-Didn't O'Mara foul more frequently than Jalen even? This could be a real concern if Gaston isn't a big plus defensively.
-I really see Gates taking some of this on. He can defend a 1-4 according to Mack.
-this depends on how much Tre plays at the 4. If we have Tre/Gates/O'Mara/Gaston rotating between two spots, we'll be fine. I'm more concerned about Goodin and our perimeter depth).

I really think (OK, maybe hope and pray) Sean picked up many of those fouls because he was overly aggressive knowing he had very limited minutes. My prayer is he can learn to avoid some of those fouls in the same way he learned to play offense in the low post. He seems very coachable. Jalen, maybe didn't soak things in quite the same way, despite great physical tools (which he relied on maybe too heavily). Is Sean mobile enough? I don't know, but we shall see.

[MADXSTER]

Not wanting to hijack this into a Jalen foul thread but it was discussed many times about how Jalen picked up questionable fouls. I think one of the reasons he did so well in the NCAA was because the refs let the guys play and because his rep was not able to follow him.

[xu82]

Not wanting to hijack this into a Jalen foul thread but it was discussed many times about how Jalen picked up questionable fouls. I think one of the reasons he did so well in the NCAA was because the refs let the guys play and because his rep was not able to follow him.

No question, the refs are just people and they learn certain biases. My ref hating son got T'd up for rolling his eyes, without a word spoken. This may have been a positive factor for Jalen in the Tourny.

[MauriceX]

-Didn't O'Mara foul more frequently than Jalen even?

They fouled at the same exact rate actually. 6.4 fouls per 40 minutes played. Kaiser Gates also comes in at 6.4. The three tied for the highest fouling rate among non-walk-ons.

For comparison sake:
Reynolds/O'Mara/Gates - 6.4 fouls per 40.
London - 5.6
Farr/Austin - 4.8
Macura - 4
Sumner - 3.6
Bluiett - 3.2
Davis - 2.8
Abell - 2

[Muskeagle]

They fouled at the same exact rate actually. 6.4 fouls per 40 minutes played. Kaiser Gates also comes in at 6.4. The three tied for the highest fouling rate among non-walk-ons.

For comparison sake:
Reynolds/O'Mara/Gates - 6.4 fouls per 40.
London - 5.6
Farr/Austin - 4.8
Macura - 4
Sumner - 3.6
Bluiett - 3.2
Davis - 2.8
Abell - 2

Remarkable that even given that he was generally playing the other team's best wing player, Remy had the lowest foul rate. I know people were frustrated by his lack of offense at times, but he will be sorely missed.

[SemajParlor]

They fouled at the same exact rate actually. 6.4 fouls per 40 minutes played. Kaiser Gates also comes in at 6.4. The three tied for the highest fouling rate among non-walk-ons.



Fouls per 40 minutes can be very misleading.

[Milhouse]

It is- especially with X's depth situation last year- some of the bench guys were put in as bruisers to wear down the other teams starters.

O'Mara had a game where he fouled out in 4 MINUTES.

Do you really think he fouls that much? No...he was told to play as aggressive/physical and he played his role to a T.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Milhouse you are correct saying that. I really like O'Mara, I watched him some in HS after he committed. Kid has a good motor and plays with his head. He is kind of a smaller stainbrook in a way. I look forward to seeing him next year playing more minutes. Gaston is a weird one, I am not sure how good those two will be together.

[MauriceX]

Fouls per 40 minutes can be very misleading.

I know it isn't perfect, but I figured that was the best stat to answer "Didn't O'Mara foul more frequently than Jalen?" If there is a better one in your opinion, please let me know. I love sports stats, and always looking to learn more.

[xu82]

I know it isn't perfect, but I figured that was the best stat to answer "Didn't O'Mara foul more frequently than Jalen?" If there is a better one in your opinion, please let me know. I love sports stats, and always looking to learn more.

I'd like to believe that you'd agree he might play differently if he was expecting 15-25 minutes/game. But maybe I'm wrong....

[MauriceX]

I'd like to believe that you'd agree he might play differently if he was expecting 15-25 minutes/game. But maybe I'm wrong....

Sure, but I don't see how my beliefs are relevant. I'm just trying to provide a statistic to answer a question. The question was did O'Mara foul at a higher frequency than Reynolds. The answer is that they fouled at the same frequency. I never tried to give an explanation as to why they fouled at the same frequency. They just did. That is a fact.

If you want to get into my beliefs though, I think it is a combination of game plan and straight up ability. Young big guys aren't as developed and have worse technique, which leads to more fouling. So I'd expect O'Mara's foul count to go down in future years because 1) he will be better and 2) he will play more conservatively to stay on the floor longer.

[MADXSTER]

Ok, I'm going to do a little revision here with my starting 5 for the opener.....

Ed
JP
Trevon
Gates
Gaston

[xukeith]

Ok, I'm going to do a little revision here with my starting 5 for the opener.....

Ed
JP
Trevon
Gates
Gaston

assuming M Davis is gone?

[XUFan09]

assuming M Davis is gone?
Assuming Myles isn't playing at the first game.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[xu82]

Assuming Myles isn't playing at the first game.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

An important distinction.

[Harryfe]

There is no doubt about it. Sean fouls a LOT. It is because he is slow afoot. I just hope he can provide more than 15 minutes per game

[TUclutch]

Ok, I'm going to do a little revision here with my starting 5 for the opener.....

Ed
JP
Trevon
Gates
Gaston

That's my lineup as well.
6'6, 6'5, 6'6, 6'8, 6'8

I like this lineup a lot

[muskienick]

That's my lineup as well.
6'6, 6'5, 6'6, 6'8, 6'8

I like this lineup a lot

All the while hoping that the opposition doesn't come in with a Drew Lavender-type player.

[muskienick]

There is no doubt about it. Sean fouls a LOT. It is because he is slow afoot. I just hope he can provide more than 15 minutes per game

Ah, yes --- the "Glass half empty" guy males another appearance!

[XMuskieFTW]

All the while hoping that the opposition doesn't come in with a Drew Lavender-type player.

Creighton will be a very difficult match up again this year with Watson Jr.

[Hudson]

There is no doubt about it. Sean fouls a LOT. It is because he is slow afoot. I just hope he can provide more than 15 minutes per game

Never underestimate the leaps these players can make in an off-season.

[XUFan09]

There is no doubt about it. Sean fouls a LOT. It is because he is slow afoot. I just hope he can provide more than 15 minutes per game

Reserve players tend to foul at a higher rate, because they are encouraged to play high intensity in their limited minutes and foul trouble is less likely to be an issue and therefore less of a deterrent.

[sirthought]

Reserve players tend to foul at a higher rate, because they are encouraged to play high intensity in their limited minutes and foul trouble is less likely to be an issue and therefore less of a deterrent.

Exactly

I'm not too worried about Sean (as I was with other recent bigs). I believe he will start and show us all some great stuff.

[markchal]

I'm guessing a lot of zone next year again? I'm not exactly optimistic about JP trying to guard the opposition's SG in man-to-man.

[paulxu]

Resurrected ghost of Brad Redford?

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Close but no, JP showed some flash for man defense last year and can make a lot more plays than Redford could ever dream.


Resurrected ghost of Brad Redford?

[xu82]

Close but no, JP showed some flash for man defense last year and can make a lot more plays than Redford could ever dream.

It's probably best not to use "JP" and "flash" in the same sentance.

[Olsingledigit]

It's probably best not to use "JP" and "flash" in the same sentance.

Well, when you think about it flashing the opposition my so stun them that it would throw them off.