Game Thread: Xavier v. Marquette (March 1, 2017 ) Big East Conference

[Muskie]

http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/ncaa/500/2752.png&h=150&w=150v.http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/ncaa/500/269.png&h=150&w=150
Xavier Musketeers vs. Marquette Golden Eagles
March 1, 2017
Game Time: 9:00 ET | Cincinnati, OH
TV: FS1
Radio:55KRC (https://www.iheart.com/live/55krc-1709/)
Live Stats (http://www.sidearmstats.com/xavier/mbball/)
Live Chat (http://webchat.freenode.net/?channels=XavierHoops)

[Muskie]

I have no idea if today is National Musketeer day.

[Xavier]

Obviously, a huge game. But beyond that- for those going to the game, it could very well be the last time you are sitting in those seats around those people. I think the majority will keep their seats but I imagine a few will be displaced with reseating over summer.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Obviously, a huge game. But beyond that- for those going to the game, it could very well be the last time you are sitting in those seats around those people. I think the majority will keep their seats but I imagine a few will be displaced with reseating over summer.

Depending, this could be a huge blessing as well!

[paulxu]

This worked against Creighton, so I'll try it here.

http://cache.lego.com/upload/contentTemplating/MinifiguresBios/images/pic773F455B41A27FB44B60F2397BAA49D7.jpg

[Juice]

I have no idea if today is National Musketeer day.

It is now. Boom, just declared it. And somehow it has the same meaning as National Marquette Day.

[xufan2434]

This worked against Creighton, so I'll try it here.

http://cache.lego.com/upload/contentTemplating/MinifiguresBios/images/pic773F455B41A27FB44B60F2397BAA49D7.jpg

The Creighton win feels like it was last year

[GoMuskies]

It is now. Boom, just declared it. And somehow it has the same meaning as National Marquette Day.

Hopefully it doesn't have the EXACT same meaning, because I thought National Marquette Day kinda sucked.

[HenryMuto]

Must win tonight if we don't want X playing in the NIT.

Last stand.

[xukeith]

Game starts in less than 2 hours and Marquette has already made three 3pointers

[Jesuit4Life]

Let's get this one, Muskies.

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[X Factor]

Better guard the three point line or Marquette is going to rain down threes all night.

[X Factor]

Gates with 2 turnovers...

[X Factor]

We stink at shooting jumpers

[Xville]

This team is garbage....they belong in the nit.

[X Factor]

How bad is our defense...just leaving guys wide open. Good shooters wide open. :no:

[xudash]

We stink at shooting jumpers

In our building. And with them feeling right at home.

Pathetic.

[xavierj]

Gates with 2 moving screens, a walk and a bad pass for another turnover. Nice start for the young man. I am also resigned to the fact that Marquette can just pull up for half court shots and they are going to go in.

[SemajParlor]

This is an unfamiliar feeling.

[kellernr]

Do we look that bad? Can't watch, haven't had power since 4am thanks to a tornado down the street from us.

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[HenryMuto]

Just not the same team without Sumner.

[xavierj]

Trevon blueitt is so limited.

[paulxu]

Do they ever miss a three?

[X Factor]

Stupid turnovers

[Xville]

Just not the same team without Sumner.

This team wasn't that great with sumner....they had deficiencies from the beginning of this year. Front court is complete garbage and that is on mack

[kellernr]

Need tre to hit some shots. 25-18. Not out of reach by any means. Need to keep it close and hope they go cold from 3.

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[X Factor]

That should not be a flagrant foul

[X Factor]

Need tre to hit some shots. 25-18. Not out of reach by any means. Need to keep it close and hope they go cold from 3.

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That's our strategy...hope they go cold from 3.

[BMoreX]

Jesus Kaiser is having a horrible game.

[xavierj]

Gates... really?

[X Factor]

Does Kaiser do anything besides turn the ball over?

[xudash]

Does Kaiser do anything besides turn the ball over?

He also fouls.

[kellernr]

He also fouls.
Yancy was better

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[X Factor]

Feel bad for Goodin...had a chance for a spectacular dunk and gets stuffed by the rim.

[xavierj]

Bernard playing well

[X Factor]

Wow, another turnover.

[X Factor]

Defense is beyond terrible.

[xudash]

These guys should be embarrassed.

[mohr5150]

Defense is beyond terrible.

This team is beyond terrible. They look so untalented.

[xavierj]

Marquette is not even good and they are getting whatever they want. Really disappointed in Trevon. Wants to leave early and he is very average and really bad when his shot is off.

[X Factor]

This team is beyond terrible. They look so untalented.

Marquette is so much more skilled than us. I can't believe I said that.

[X Factor]

Now that was spectacular defense...let him drive right around you JP.

[X Factor]

Down 15...zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

[Xville]

Where are all the Pollyannas on this Board? Getting blown out against a bubble team at home. Yes this team has had injuries but Mack has done a piss poor job this year both in coaching and developing big men ready to play. It's inexcusable how bad omara and gates has been in this year.

[paulxu]

They finally called the Marquette 4 step shuffle a walk.

[paulxu]

Sometimes Gates plays OK. Rebounds, gets a shot or two.
But 5 TO's and 2 fouls with 0 boards or points in one half is crazy.

[bjf123]

Unless Marquette goes into a deep freeze in the second half, this game is over.


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[paulxu]

Now that was spectacular defense...let him drive right around you JP.

Yea, his D sucks sometimes. But he's playing like this game means something, and he's got a decent line going.

[AviatorX]

I have continually defended this team and lowered my expectations steadily throughout the year as it became clear Team 95 wasn't going to be what we hoped. I still think they're going to make the tournament regardless of the outcome tonight, whether in Dayton or the regular field.

That said, that first half was absolute garbage. No way around that.

[DexterBailey84]

I think it's pretty safe to say that Sean O'Mara is a big fat failure as a recruit....nothing against the kid personally, I just don't think he's a BE caliber player.....looks just like an o-lineman trying to play basketball...Oh wait...

That's all on Mack.

[xavierj]

Xavier had 9 turnovers and the point guard had zero...weak effort from the others.

[xavierj]

That's a flagrent if JP's was

[paulxu]

I just saw us burn an entire clock with no apparent play run, for anyone.
Just passed the ball around the perimeter. Ugh.

[paulxu]

If they'd stop hitting 3's we'd catch up.

[markchal]

What a disappointment this team is. Everyone lowered their expectations when Ed went down, so sure, maybe we're not worthy of being a top 6 seed. But we're likely to miss the tournament altogether at this rate, and even if we make it, the way we're playing it will be a quick stay. Massively disappointing.

[Xuperman]

Does Kaiser do anything besides turn the ball over?

He also has that "Lost" Jeff Robinson look. Looks to be confused and overwhelmed by it all, just like Jeff.

[Jesuit4Life]

Won this 4 minute war. Need the next.

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[AviatorX]

If the killer instinct doesn't come out over these next 8-10 minutes, it ain't happening this year. Crowd is ready to get behind them and can feel it building a Bit.

Zip em up. Now or never.

[DexterBailey84]

He also has that "Lost" Jeff Robinson look. Looks to be confused and overwhelmed by it all, just like Jeff.

Sadly, I thinks that's a pretty fair assessment.

[X Factor]

Unbelievably dumb play by Goodin on a fast break.

[mohr5150]

Unbelievably dumb play by Goodin on a fast break.

I've said it for most of the year. This team has the lowest basketball IQ in the country.

[X Factor]

How in the hell do our bigs always get stuck guarding their guards and wings?

[Xavier]

Goodin has killed us.

[letskeepitreal]

We got no D

[DexterBailey84]

Unbelievably dumb play by Goodin on a fast break.

and then follows it up by giving up a 3 on the other end

[Xavier]

How in the hell do our bigs always get stuck guarding their guards and wings?

Marquette whole offense is screens and back screens that causes miss matches. Then they attack the mismatch and either kick if someone helps or take to rim if not.

[X Factor]

Marquette is shooting 60% from the field

[markchal]

I can't wait to see Mack tear the fans a new one after this pathetic display from his players.

[xavierj]

Marquette is shooting 60% from the field

Marquette is shooting 65% from field, 60% from 3. 9 straight.

[Newswired]

Face it. X is a terrible team, especially on D.

[coasterville95]

And the tas is emptying out FAST

[Xavier]

Defense is horrible, not sure why we let them run the same damn play 8 times and got burned on it each one.

[Newswired]

Sad!


and the tas is emptying out fast

[HenryMuto]

Jesus

[XU 23]

Why do we switch and put our Center on their point guard? Makes absolutely no sense.

[xudash]

Perfectly understandable that the fans have had enough.

[X Factor]

Does Mack teach defense? Marquette is shooting 65%. This team has no clue how to defend. None of our "big" lead guards Mack started to recruit a few years ago have been able to shoot at a 5th grade level. Marquette's guards are small and they're destroying us.

[Emp]

Why do we switch and put our Center on their point guard? Makes absolutely no sense.
It's called a hedge. We've been doing it since Mack has been our coach. The idea is to force the guard to reverse course back to the guard. Ask MOR for details.

[paulxu]

Good lord Marquette is hot tonight; is it Marquette Day or whatever the hell that thing was?

[X Factor]

I can't help but laugh...I've been watching Xavier for years and this is just bad.

[Newswired]

This is the lowest this program has ever been. Something has to change. Especially with all the demands of the "new" Cintas Center. Best of luck with that.

[DexterBailey84]

They're not even trying g to play defense now....they look just like the Washington Generals out there

[X Factor]

No bball IQ at all out there for Xavier.

[xavbball]

Pathetic performance. This team is terrible.

[xudash]

I can't help but laugh...I've been watching Xavier for years and this is just bad.

If I call this "Tay Baker Bad" would you have a sense for how bad we appear to have become?

[AviatorX]

This is the lowest this program has ever been. Something has to change. Especially with all the demands of the "new" Cintas Center. Best of luck with that.

Willing to go ahead and award this dumbest post of the night, on a night where I'm sure a lot of good stuff is coming.

What should chance?

[Xavier]

This is the lowest this program has ever been. Something has to change. Especially with all the demands of the "new" Cintas Center. Best of luck with that.

Huh?! Lowest program has ever been? Do you realize how dumb that statement is?

[X Factor]

6 game losing streak...at DePaul is no guarantee.

[xu82]

As much as this sucks (and it DOES), remember when we generally always sucked? Young guys may not. This is disappointing because we are so used to winning. We had a shit storm this year, and struggled coming out of the tail spin. A little more hoops left this year, then probably the best class ever coming in next year. I can't bitch about that. Even UNC missed the tourney a few years ago. We are spoiled if we complain.

[JTG]

No bball IQ at all out there for Xavier.

Bingo, and it's been that way for 3 years

[Xville]

As much as this sucks (and it DOES), remember when we generally always sucked? Young guys may not. This is disappointing because we are so used to winning. We had a shit storm this year, and struggled coming out of the tail spin. A little more hoops left this year, then probably the best class ever coming in next year. I can't bitch about that. Even UNC missed the tourney a few years ago. We are spoiled if we complain.

When we go to a few final fours and win some championships I'll give a shit about unc. This team is complete shit this year that's all there is to say.

[X Factor]

As much as this sucks (and it DOES), remember when we generally always sucked? Young guys may not. This is disappointing because we are so used to winning. We had a shit storm this year, and struggled coming out of the tail spin. A little more hoops left this year, then probably the best class ever coming in next year. I can't bitch about that. Even UNC missed the tourney a few years ago. We are spoiled if we complain.

Whatever. Exactly how are we going to be better next year? If Tre and Ed bolt, we're in trouble, unless our freshman give us A LOT more than what we're used to.

[Newswired]

How is it not? This is the worst team in 30+ years. Who cares about the ancient history? WHYDFML?


Huh?! Lowest program has ever been? Do you realize how dumb that statement is?

[X Factor]

How do people still think this team is an NCAA team?

[muethibp]

Whatever. Exactly how are we going to be better next year? If Tre and Ed bolt, we're in trouble, unless our freshman give us A LOT more than what we're used to.

there's trouble if those guys stay. But I expect we won't get much from either. Tre is leaving and Sumner will be recovering from ACL and labrum surgery, and that's if he stays. As bad as this team is - and they are BAD - imagine how bad it would be without the guys that aren't coming back. The suggestion that the freshmen will solve the issues is not real realistic. Freshmen rarely contribute in any meaningful way.

[AviatorX]

How is it not? This is the worst team in 30+ years. Who cares about the ancient history? WHYDFML?

The ancient history of 2012-13 says hello. Or honestly still even 13-14. Or Sean Miller's first season.

Hopefully you are just frustrated.

[Newswired]

Worst Senior Night in recent history. By far. Hard to like this team at all.

[ReturnOfTheMack]

How is it not? This is the worst team in 30+ years. Who cares about the ancient history? WHYDFML?

It's not even remotely close to the worst team in 30+ years. If you're basing it solely on the losing streak then you're totally short-sighted. There are some mitigating factors in play here. Up until 5 years ago we were in mid-major conferences so the competition during a span of this length isn't what it is now. We also lost our starting PG and arguably best player. This team still has a CHANCE to go to the NCAA tournament and even if they don't are an NIT team. There have been more than several teams in that span that have been worse than this year's iteration. I'm as frustrated as anyone at how this team has sputtered over the last couple of weeks but don't be such a prisoner of the moment for Christ's sake.

[xu82]

When we go to a few final fours and win some championships I'll give a shit about unc. This team is complete shit this year that's all there is to say.

Glad to know someone has realistic expectations! Appreciate the good things, don't hate what you don't get. Do you get pissed if a lottery ticket doesn't pay off? We're growing. Ups and downs, like the stock market, but growing. Geez.

[xu82]

How is it not? This is the worst team in 30+ years. Who cares about the ancient history? WHYDFML?

It's OK, relax. This team would beat our team of 30 years ago........by 30.

[Newswired]

Which moment are you referring to?

Trust me, you are fooling yourself if you think this is not the worst they have been in the last 30 years. Be sure to factor in the expectations and the national publicity. Hard to argue with that.


It's not even remotely close to the worst team in 30+ years. If you're basing it solely on the losing streak then you're totally short-sighted. There are some mitigating factors in play here. Up until 5 years ago we were in mid-major conferences so the competition during a span of this length isn't what it is now. We also lost our starting PG and arguably best player. This team still has a CHANCE to go to the NCAA tournament and even if they don't are an NIT team. There have been more than several teams in that span that have been worse than this year's iteration. I'm as frustrated as anyone at how this team has sputtered over the last couple of weeks but don't be such a prisoner of the moment for Christ's sake.

[bleedXblue]

Glad to know someone has realistic expectations! Appreciate the good things, don't hate what you don't get. Do you get pissed if a lottery ticket doesn't pay off? We're growing. Ups and downs, like the stock market, but growing. Geez.

Exactly how in the hell is this growing? Give the blue sky everything is great rhetoric a break. It's nauseating.

[X Factor]

Win at Depaul to finish 9-9 and Mack will 42-30 in BE conference play since joining the conference. 58% winning percentage.

[X Factor]

At least we didn't give up a 100

[JTG]

No bball IQ at all out there for Xavier.

We have rarely had high bball IQ guys, we seem to put much greater value on athletic talent than having even marginal bball IQ.

[Jesuit4Life]

https://twitter.com/musketeerreport/status/837150208085622784
This shit is way more embarrassing than anything that's happened this season. I'm appalled by the behavior by some of our so-called fans.

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[drudy23]

Don't look now...we are the current 7 seed in the BE tourney...let that sink in.

[drudy23]

https://twitter.com/musketeerreport/status/837150208085622784
This shit is way more embarrassing than anything that's happened this season. I'm appalled by the behavior by some of our so-called fans.

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It was 2 dudes talking to 2 dudes.

???????????????????

[ReturnOfTheMack]

Which moment are you referring to?

Trust me, you are fooling yourself if you think this is not the worst they have been in the last 30 years. Be sure to factor in the expectations and the national publicity. Hard to argue with that.

I see you ignored every reason I provided as to how they aren't the worst team in 30 years. How about the seasons when they didn't play in a postseason tournament even with the cushion of playing a mid-major schedule? Were those teams better? If this team finds a way to get into the NCAA tournament field, which still is in play, you're absolutely allowing your frustration to blind yourself to all logic. Can't help you there.

[X Factor]

We have rarely had high bball IQ guys, we seem to put much greater value on athletic talent than having even marginal bball IQ.

We're not even that athletic

[Newswired]

You have not factored in expectations. This is an embarrassing team. Defend with others from around the country. It's not a doable situation.

I see you ignored every reason I provided as to how they aren't the worst team in 30 years. How about the seasons when they didn't play in a postseason tournament even with the cushion of playing a mid-major schedule? Were those teams better? If this team finds a way to get into the NCAA tournament field, which still is in play, you're absolutely allowing your frustration to blind yourself to all logic. Can't help you there.

[drudy23]

We have rarely had high bball IQ guys, we seem to put much greater value on athletic talent than having even marginal bball IQ.

We have athletic talent?

[muethibp]

This "worst team in 30 years" stuff is silly. That's obviously not true. But what is, as I said numerous times this afternoon, is that there is very good reason to wonder if the program has stalled or regressed under Mack.

[bleedXblue]

We're not even that athletic

Combine unathletic players with low BBall IQ and you have a very average/poor team. Mack recruited these guys. It's on him and him alone. Yeah, losing Ed hurt, but no excuse for 6 in a row and the last 3 home games with a loss. He's got a team that looks completely lost and can't defend at all.

[xu82]

https://twitter.com/musketeerreport/status/837150208085622784
This shit is way more embarrassing than anything that's happened this season. I'm appalled by the behavior by some of our so-called fans.

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No idea what was said or happened before the video (or CAUSED the video), but no problem with it if they were belligerent.

[Xville]

This team is nit bound. We aren't just losing, we are getting drilled. Sorry for all you bright outlook guys but next year won't be much better. Still don't think Mack is the right guy for this program sorry.

[paulxu]

And then they came here to post?

[xu82]

Combine unathletic players with low BBall IQ and you have a very average/poor team. Mack recruited these guys. It's on him and him alone. Yeah, losing Ed hurt, but no excuse for 6 in a row and the last 3 home games with a loss. He's got a team that looks completely lost and can't defend at all.

Did you bitch at the 2 seed last year?

[bleedXblue]

Did you bitch at the 2 seed last year?

What does that have to do with NOW and where this team is going?

[Xville]

Did you bitch at the 2 seed last year?

No they bitched at the fact we lost to an underwhelming Wisconsin team and completely wasted a good regular season

[AviatorX]

This team is nit bound. We aren't just losing, we are getting drilled. Sorry for all you bright outlook guys but next year won't be much better. Still don't think Mack is the right guy for this program sorry.

Was waiting for this. What kind of coaches do you think would be attracted to coaching at Xavier (a job w/ higher expectations than it should have, honestly) if they got rid of the guy who had the best regular season in history and won national coach of the year?

[xavierj]

We have athletic talent?

Not this year, especially with Ed down. Blueitt may be the worst athlete on the team and he can't wait to play in Israel. Gates thinks he is 6'2" and JP tries to be way too cute. The good thing for xavier is that they get to play Depaul the next two games.

[ReturnOfTheMack]

You have not factored in expectations. This is an embarrassing team. Defend with others from around the country. It's not a doable situation.

Expectations have NOTHING to do with reality! Preseason expectations can't account for losing your PG midway through the season. They can't account for losing probably your 3rd best player to suspension and never coming back. They can't account for losing your leading scorer to injury during the toughest stretch on the schedule. If you want to say this is the most disappointing team in three decades I'd be willing to hear that debate. You're making an entirely different argument all together though that's simply not true.

[X Factor]

Combine unathletic players with low BBall IQ and you have a very average/poor team. Mack recruited these guys. It's on him and him alone. Yeah, losing Ed hurt, but no excuse for 6 in a row and the last 3 home games with a loss. He's got a team that looks completely lost and can't defend at all.

I agree. Marquette's 5'10 and 5'11 guards abused us two times this year. We're looking at 2 or 3 years of good recruiting classes to get back to a level where we can compete for a BE title. I just don't think next year is going to be much better. We still won't have any shooters, and Tyrique will be our only athletic big man. Gonna be interesting if Mack makes any changes in how he teaches defense too. This is just an absolutely terrible defensive team.

[drudy23]

Not this year, especially with Ed down. Blueitt may be the worst athlete on the team and he can't wait to play in Israel. Gates thinks he is 6'2" and JP tries to be way too cute. The good thing for xavier is that they get to play Depaul the next two games.

We're likely not beating DePaul on the road either.

[X Factor]

Did you bitch at the 2 seed last year?

When's the last time Xavier beat a higher seeded team in the NCAA tournament?

[Newswired]

We will have to agree to disagree. There is simply nothing to be optimistic about with this team. It's the first time in 30 years I have said that.
Expectations have NOTHING to do with reality! Preseason expectations can't account for losing your PG midway through the season. They can't account for losing probably your 3rd best player to suspension and never coming back. They can't account for losing your leading scorer to injury during the toughest stretch on the schedule. If you want to say this is the most disappointing team in three decades I'd be willing to hear that debate. You're making an entirely different argument all together though that's simply not true.

[drudy23]

Will Kaiser Gates be BJ Raymond or Jeff Robinson?

Looking like Jeff Robinson.

[xavierj]

Whatever. Exactly how are we going to be better next year? If Tre and Ed bolt, we're in trouble, unless our freshman give us A LOT more than what we're used to.

Well there is that thing with young guys getting better, it's not unheard of. Plus Xavier has 5 guys coming in. I see Q and Tyrique improving and at least a couple of the new guys being solid. I mean Scruggs is a top 25 guy for a reason.

[X Factor]

Well there is that thing with young guys getting better, it's not unheard of. Plus Xavier has 5 guys coming in. I see Q and Tyrique improving and at least a couple of the new guys being solid. I mean Scruggs is a top 25 guy for a reason.

Yes, but we need shooters. We got ran out of the gym twice by Marquette because they have shooters all over the court. Trevon is our only slightly better than average 3 point shooter, and he's most likely gone. Scruggs is not a shooter, Marshall is not a shooter. Goodin is NOT going to suddenly shoot 35-40% next year. Gates might step up, hopefully.

Hopefully Harden and Ridder can provide some outside shooting, but I'm not counting on it.

Every Top 10 team this year is shooting at least 35% as a team, I think 8 of them are shooting over 37% as a team with a few of them 40-41%.

[Jesuit4Life]

No idea what was said or happened before the video (or CAUSED the video), but no problem with it if they were belligerent.
Right, I was referring to what preceded the video and lead to "2 dudes" needing to talk to and kick out those "2 dudes."

Be frustrated as much as you want to be but don't be an ass.

[X Factor]

Mack: "I don't know if we have any fight left. We'll see Saturday."

[AviatorX]

I am a die hard Xavier and IU fan. Not sure there has been a worse possible combo ever from a how I was feeling in November to how I'm feeling now standpoint.

[mistabeecee41]

mack's job isn't in jeopardy - nor should it be.

With that being said, he was awful tonight. We tried that "switch everything" man against Butler and it got demolished. Tried it again tonight and it took him 36 minutes to get out of it. It's kind of unbelievable.

[bleedXblue]

Mack: "I don't know if we have any fight left. We'll see Saturday."

This team has ZERO chemistry and no leader (on the floor). It's been that way all year.

Not only did we lose a good shooter and backup PG, we lost the only guy who had the qualities needed to be a real leader.

[Xville]

Was waiting for this. What kind of coaches do you think would be attracted to coaching at Xavier (a job w/ higher expectations than it should have, honestly) if they got rid of the guy who had the best regular season in history and won national coach of the year?

Don't know. that's not my job as to know who would be attracted to xavier. All I know is we have had a lot of Mack and sorry but he's not a good x and o coach. It's pretty obvious to those who know and watch basketball. I'll take Archie over Mack for one. At least he has a freaking clue as to how to coach defense.

[xavierj]

Don't know. that's not my job as to know who would be attracted to xavier. All I know is we have had a lot of Mack and sorry but he's not a good x and o coach. It's pretty obvious to those who know and watch basketball. I'll take Archie over Mack for one. At least he has a freaking clue as to how to coach defense.

He seemed to be a very good x and o guy last year....he was national coach of the year with zero NBA guys. He has to be pretty decent. There is a reason he is always up for open jobs and will be again this year. Those who "know" basketball know what he and his team have faced. Been a rough year that I don't know many coaches who could have done much better. Some people just expect miracles. I mean going into the summer many thought Sumner, Davis and Eiykor would be 3 of the 5 starters.

[xu82]

Right, I was referring to what preceded the video and lead to "2 dudes" needing to talk to and kick out those "2 dudes."

Be frustrated as much as you want to be but don't be an ass.

That's how I took it. Looks like we have more people on this board venting worse than the two who were bumped from the game. Short sighted in my mind. Yes, it sucks, but look at the 10-20 year trend. Then get over this.

[X Factor]

He seemed to be a very good x and o guy last year....he was national coach of the year with zero NBA guys. He has to be pretty decent. There is a reason he is always up for open jobs and will be again this year. Those who "know" basketball know what he and his team have faced. Been a rough year that I don't know many coaches who could have done much better. Some people just expect miracles. I mean going into the summer many thought Sumner, Davis and Eiykor would be 3 of the 5 starters.

He's coached this team, and it's one of the worst defensive teams in the past 10 years at Xavier.

[Backyard Champ]

Maybe I've missed it because I don't necessarily go back and read all the game threads.. but Tre seems to get a huge pass from this board. He simply shows no emotion in games. He is a defensive liability, and he is a really bad ball handler. His ability to get out of a double team, or find an open man when doubled, is not any better than typical center. He was horrible tonight. He got some garbage points in the end, but he was no help tonight when we really could have used it. No doubt he's a great scorer, and this team needs that, but his overall basketball IQ is not that impressive.

[bleedXblue]

Maybe I've missed it because I don't necessarily go back and read all the game threads.. but Tre seems to get a huge pass from this board. He simply shows no emotion in games. He is a defensive liability, and he is a really bad ball handler. His ability to get out of a double team, or find an open man when doubled, is not any better than typical center. He was horrible tonight. He got some garbage points in the end, but he was no help tonight when we really could have used it. No doubt he's a great scorer, and this team needs that, but his overall basketball IQ is not that impressive.

His head is somewhere else.....I think he's already moved on to what he'll be doing next year......

[AviatorX]

Don't know. that's not my job as to know who would be attracted to xavier. All I know is we have had a lot of Mack and sorry but he's not a good x and o coach. It's pretty obvious to those who know and watch basketball. I'll take Archie over Mack for one. At least he has a freaking clue as to how to coach defense.

I'm not asking you for a list, just to think about the kind of guys X could get. Archie isn't one of them.

[AviatorX]

Don't know. that's not my job as to know who would be attracted to xavier. All I know is we have had a lot of Mack and sorry but he's not a good x and o coach. It's pretty obvious to those who know and watch basketball. I'll take Archie over Mack for one. At least he has a freaking clue as to how to coach defense.


Also, just to be clear, you want Mack gone?

Will be interesting when the IU job opens up if they have to dip below their first tier of choices, which they probably will. Would you be surprised to see Mack get a lot of play for that job?

His lack of X and O skills was so obvious to the AD's at Cal and Florida. Jesus.

[DWXU23]

Mack: "I don't know if we have any fight left. We'll see Saturday."
It's very concerning that this team can still make the tournament and Mack is worried they might have quit. Says a lot about this group of players and the job Mack has done this year.

[xu82]

For the haters, does every day/week/month/year of your marriage/job/life go the way you want? Are there some bumpy times? Maybe even a wicked stretch, but you know you get another shot next time? But our guys will just finish hard, and learn as much as they can from the experience.

[xu82]

It's very concerning that this team can still make the tournament and Mack is worried they might have quit. Says a lot about this group of players and the job Mack has done this year.

Please, what exactly makes you say Mack is worried that his team may have quit. That is baseless, unless you can provide something. Losing does not mean they quit. All but one team every year ultimately loses. They are not all quitters. This is indeed a bad spell, but they have NOT quit. That is insulting to say.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Has Xavier basketball program ceased to exist? How many times has it been suggested Mack hasnt moved the program forward or needs to go? Is there any reason to look through any of this thread? I probably shouldnt but I'll peruse a little bit.

Shitty game tho, ugh.

[xu82]

Has Xavier basketball program ceased to exist? How many times has it been suggested Mack hasnt moved the program forward or needs to go? Is there any reason to look through any of this thread? I probably shouldnt but I'll peruse a little bit.

Shitty game tho, ugh.

It's obviously a horrible stretch, but the key is perspective. Yes, lots of consecutive losing. Looking at the big picture, things will come around and make us stronger in the next few years. Not overnight, but in time.

[X Factor]

Please, what exactly makes you say Mack is worried that his team may have quit. That is baseless, unless you can provide something.

He said it on the post game show with Joe and Byron! He said "I'm not sure this team has any fight left in them." Is that good enough for you?

[IM4X]

For the haters, does every day/week/month/year of your marriage/job/life go the way you want? Are there some bumpy times? Maybe even a wicked stretch, but you know you get another shot next time? But our guys will just finish hard, and learn as much as they can from the experience.

I am certainly not a hater of Mack but I have to ask... So you think our guys are finishing hard and learning something out there? Thought maybe it was the case after the Creighton game, but it sure doesn't seem like it at this point. I don't care so much about the losing streak as I do about the fact that this team we now have continues to make the same lazy mistakes and the players continue to regress on defense.

[D-West & PO-Z]

It's obviously a horrible stretch, but the key is perspective. Yes, lots of consecutive losing. Looking at the big picture, things will come around and make us stronger in the next few years. Not overnight, but in time.

I 100% agree.

We beat Depaul I think we are in the tourney. Amazing that we could make the tourney and you'd think we werent even making the CBI based on some.

[xu82]

He said it on the post game show with Joe and Byron! He said "I'm not sure this team has any fight left in them." Is that good enough for you?

And it's a way a coach challenges a team. How many sports did you play? Maybe tons. If so, you've heard it. I have.

[AviatorX]

I 100% agree.

We beat Depaul I think we are in the tourney. Amazing that we could make the tourney and you'd think we werent even making the CBI based on some.

Things turn SO quickly in college ball. Two years ago to the day we needed to win @Creighton and did so in a less than impressive performance to stay on the right side of the bubble. Then we spent the offseason after that wondering what the hell we were going to do without Stainbrook and if we had anyone who could play PG. A year later we were talking Final Four mainly because of the guy who ended up being pretty good at PG. Now he goes down and we are wondering if Mack should go. Honestly, no idea what next year's group will look like on the floor but it usually works out for XU over time as 82 alluded to.

[XU 87]

mack's job isn't in jeopardy - nor should it be.

With that being said, he was awful tonight. We tried that "switch everything" man against Butler and it got demolished. Tried it again tonight and it took him 36 minutes to get out of it. It's kind of unbelievable.

I don't understand the defensive philosophy today. They switched on passes when there were no screens. they switched if there was a screen. They switched on everything. Marquette's offense in the second half was to wait until there was a switch that created a mismatch and then have that player go one on one. When X got within about 8 in the second half, Marquette scored 5 points on back to back possessions because O'Mara was covering the 5'11" Marquette guard after a switch.

Just a dumb strategy IMHO.

[X Factor]

And it's a way a coach challenges a team. How many sports did you play? Maybe tons. If so, you've heard it. I have.

Well you said it wasn't true and it was baseless. I'm telling you what Mack said. And yes, I played sports my whole life growing up.

[XU 87]

Maybe I've missed it because I don't necessarily go back and read all the game threads.. but Tre seems to get a huge pass from this board. He simply shows no emotion in games. He is a defensive liability, and he is a really bad ball handler. His ability to get out of a double team, or find an open man when doubled, is not any better than typical center. He was horrible tonight. He got some garbage points in the end, but he was no help tonight when we really could have used it. No doubt he's a great scorer, and this team needs that, but his overall basketball IQ is not that impressive.

Did you think that way about him when he scored 40 against UC? How about after he was named All-American last year? He had a bad game today. That doesn't mean he sucks.

[xu82]

I am certainly not a hater of Mack but I have to ask... So you think our guys are finishing hard and learning something out there? Thought maybe it was the case after the Creighton game, but it sure doesn't seem like it at this point. I don't care so much about the losing streak as I do about the fact that this team we now have continues to make the same lazy mistakes and the players continue to regress on defense.


The "lazy mistakes" are turnovers because we can't handle the ball. OH, WAIT, we lost our NBA prospect PG and our second hand PG. Now we are down to the 3rd PG, and a guy who should NEVER be PG. If you're not a "hater", you are just clueless.

[X Factor]

The "lazy mistakes" are turnovers because we can't handle the ball. OH, WAIT, we lost our NBA prospect PG and our second hand PG. Now we are down to the 3rd PG, and a guy who should NEVER be PG. If you're not a "hater", you are just clueless.

You are an excuse machine. How about we not expect guys like Trevon and JP and Kaiser to turn the ball over. It has nothing to do with Ed going down, because the kid who replaced Ed has actually been pretty good at protecting the ball. Did you watch Trevon lazily throw it right to Marquette as he dribbled up the court? Did you watch Gates turn it over 5 times in the first 7 minutes of the game? That's because Ed wasn't out there, right?

[XU 87]

You are an excuse machine. How about we not expect guys like Trevon and JP and Kaiser to turn the ball over. It has nothing to do with Ed going down. Did you watch Trevon lazily throw it right to Marquette as he dribbled up the court? Did you watch Gates turn it over 5 times in the first 7 minutes of the game? That's because Ed wasn't out there, right?

You're a bit of a negative poster. You should try to be a little more positive.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I don't understand the defensive philosophy today. They switched on passes when there were no screens. they switched if there was a screen. They switched on everything. Marquette's offense in the second half was to wait until there was a switch that created a mismatch and then have that player go one on one. When X got within about 8 in the second half, Marquette scored 5 points on back to back possessions because O'Mara was covering the 5'11" Marquette guard after a switch.

Just a dumb strategy IMHO.

Yeah that was driving me crazy. It was killing us because someone would have to come help leaving their guy wide open for a 3. Killed the momentum every single time.

[XU 87]

Yeah that was driving me crazy. It was killing us because someone would have to come help leaving their guy wide open for a 3. Killed the momentum every single time.

I just don't understand a defensive strategy which purposely creates mismatches.

[X Factor]

You're a bit of a negative poster. You should try to be a little more positive.

I'm trying. I'm just passionate about Xavier and when things don't go the way I hope, I tend to lean more pessimistic and negative.

We still have highly ranked / recruited kids on the court. I'm pretty sure Mack isn't letting the stupid turnovers and terrible defense slide because Ed went down.

[xu82]

You're a bit of a negative poster. You should try to be a little more positive.

Agreed, I'd rather respond to YOU and acknowledge that each player was recruited to play their role. Expecting them to "stup up" and play another role (to any extended degree) is hopeful, but usually fruitless and foolish.

[Backyard Champ]

Did you think that way about him when he scored 40 against UC? How about after he was named All-American last year? He had a bad game today. That doesn't mean he sucks.

I never said he sucks. He's great offensively.. if he's scoring. He's not a good ball handler, that's clear. Just watch when he's running on a fastbreak, he can hardly dribble the ball quick enough to keep up with his speed, which is saying a lot because he's not a quick player by any means. Any time he's doubled, he either turns it over, or picks the ball up and is trapped quickly. He simply isn't good on defense, and that's been the case the whole year. Tre can win us ball games, he's an awesome one on one player. He's a great spot up shooter. He isn't someone that can create for others. He is a very talented offensive player but, most of the times he's got a very lopsided stat sheet. Or, a lot of the times he will have one half where he scores a bunch, and one half where you can hardly tell he's on the court.
Tonight was a great example of that. He had a really bad game, and he still got points. Too many times people look at a score sheet to determine how a player played.

[IM4X]

The "lazy mistakes" are turnovers because we can't handle the ball. OH, WAIT, we lost our NBA prospect PG and our second hand PG. Now we are down to the 3rd PG, and a guy who should NEVER be PG. If you're not a "hater", you are just clueless.

I said, "THIS TEAM WE NOW HAVE continues to make the same lazy mistakes and the players continue to regress on defense." I did not say this team has been making mistakes since Ed was injured. I even alluded to the Creighton game (which was after Ed's injury) as a reference to a time when the team played hard and tougher on defense. At least read what I wrote before you start hurling unnecessary, rude remarks.

[TUclutch]

When we go to a few final fours and win some championships I'll give a shit about unc. This team is complete shit this year that's all there is to say.

You just made his point for him you idiot. Were NOT UNC. We're not above having a bad season here and there. His point was clearly even UNC had a bad year and missed the tourney. Jesus christ you're dumb

[TUclutch]

This "worst team in 30 years" stuff is silly. That's obviously not true. But what is, as I said numerous times this afternoon, is that there is very good reason to wonder if the program has stalled or regressed under Mack.

That's almost as idiotic as the "worst team in 30 years" comment.

[xavierj]

I'm trying. I'm just passionate about Xavier and when things don't go the way I hope, I tend to lean more pessimistic and negative.

We still have highly ranked / recruited kids on the court. I'm pretty sure Mack isn't letting the stupid turnovers and terrible defense slide because Ed went down.

Xavier plays 8 guys. Two of the 8 are freshman, one of which was a red shirt candidate, and we have two other guys who played last at Norfolk State and Florida A&M respectfully. Sean O'Mara was not highly ranked so that leaves JP, Kaiser (3 star) and Trevon. That's not enough. Rough year all around, a perfect storm.

[GetUp5]

Indiana, Ohio State, UConn, Oklahoma, Texas, Pittsburgh, Memphis and to a certain degree San Diego State, New Mexico, UNLV. All also having nightmare seasons.

We're not alone. It's pretty damn hard to achieve the level of consistent success Xavier has had over the past 15 years.

[XfansinKy]

We're not even that athletic

Not at all and that's why all this is happening. Q and Tyrique are the only elite level athletes on this team.

[Xville]

You just made his point for him you idiot. Were NOT UNC. We're not above having a bad season here and there. His point was clearly even UNC had a bad year and missed the tourney. Jesus christ you're dumb

Thanks for spelling it out for me. My dumb self couldn't figure it out on my own. My point was if we win a few championships and make some final fours, like unc, then maybe I can give the team a pass on a bad season. Maybe had they not completely pissed down their leg last year, there would not be so much angst here. Just a thought.

[Xville]

Xavier plays 8 guys. Two of the 8 are freshman, one of which was a red shirt candidate, and we have two other guys who played last at Norfolk State and Florida A&M respectfully. Sean O'Mara was not highly ranked so that leaves JP, Kaiser (3 star) and Trevon. That's not enough. Rough year all around, a perfect storm.

I will give Mack a bit of a pass on the backcourt this year. However, the Front court he is responsible for and they are one of the worst frontcourts x has had in a very long time.

[Masterofreality]

I've got a lot of thoughts, but I'm not going to waste my time writing all of them out.

No care, no chemistry, no comraderie. Certainly no effort in an important game that they needed....unlike, at least, the Butler game.

Q returned to his unaggressive self, too many late shot clock situations with resulting miserable turnovers, really horrific "defense" and a coach who seemed more concerned about the crowd's effort pre- game than his own team's.

Obviously Marquette and Butler recruit GAME shooters without worrying about how many "stars" there are behind their names. When is Xavier going to recruit guys who can shoot the rock from out.....other than in practice?

That was the most disgusting performance by a Xavier team that I've seen since the 2004 team up and quit on the court at George Washington. At least that team had a vocal leader in Lionel. This team has no one like that.

Way to disrespect your Seniors and the crowd with that lousy effort. See you in New York....but I doubt for long.

[GoMuskies]

We suck.

[xavierj]

I will give Mack a bit of a pass on the backcourt this year. However, the Front court he is responsible for and they are one of the worst frontcourts x has had in a very long time.

Their bigs are not very skilled but If you can't see potential in Jones, you do not know basketball. Plus how can it be that bad when they are second in the big east in rebound margin. The bigs are not why they have lost 6 straight, anyone who knows and watches basketball can see that. They are losing because they can't guard guys off the bounce and can't find open shooters. It's as simple as that. Xavier was at home, ahot 49% from the floor, 45% from 3, 81% from the line, won the rebounding battle and had 18 assists, scored 84 points and lost. That is just crazy and shows one how hot Marquette was, they couldn't shoot that well in practice and two, how bad the defense was.

[xavierj]

I've got a lot of thoughts, but I'm not going to waste my time writing all of them out.

No care, no chemistry, no comraderie. Certainly no effort in an important game that they needed....unlike, at least, the Butler game.

Q returned to his unaggressive self, too many late shot clock situations with resulting miserable turnovers, really horrific "defense" and a coach who seemed more concerned about the crowd's effort pre- game than his own team's.

Obviously Marquette and Butler recruit GAME shooters without worrying about how many "stars" there are behind their names. When is Xavier going to recruit guys who can shoot the rock from out.....other than in practice?

That was the most disgusting performance by a Xavier team that I've seen since the 2004 team up and quit on the court at George Washington. At least that team had a vocal leader in Lionel. This team has no one like that.

Way to disrespect your Seniors and the crowd with that lousy effort. See you in New York....but I doubt for long.
MOR Q only had 1 turnover and that was on a charge and a really bad decision by him. Q is missing the shooters wide open on the wings and corners too many times when he drives. As for the turnovers, of the 14, gates, Bluiett and Macura had 10 and none were Q's fault and early in the shot clock. Both O'mara and Bernard had boneheaded turnovers early in the clock as well. So show me, other then a bad decision that resulted in a charge and maybe 2 forced bad shots, where Q caused miserable turnovers. Last night Q was running point and no one on Xavier knows how to get open so they force his hand or they try to dump in the post but Marquette doubles down and our bigs do not know how to pass out of the post. Both O'Mara and Gaston had bad turnovers throwing out of the post, that would have led to wide open three's if they could have completed the pass.

[X Factor]

Their bigs are not very skilled but If you can't see potential in Jones, you do not know basketball. Plus how can it be that bad when they are second in the big east in rebound margin. The bigs are not why they have lost 6 straight, anyone who knows and watches basketball can see that. They are losing because they can't guard guys off the bounce and can't find open shooters. It's as simple as that. Xavier was at home, ahot 49% from the floor, 45% from 3, 81% from the line, won the rebounding battle and had 18 assists, scored 84 points and lost. That is just crazy and shows one how hot Marquette was, they couldn't shoot that well in practice and two, how bad the defense was.

They shot that well against us at their place too. Just like Nova always shoots "that well" against us.

[GIMMFD]

Good god this place is miserable when things are going bad. Rally around the team, let's bring on DePaul and see what the hell happens guys. You know the season isn't over yet right? We still have an opportunity to make the tournament with this dumpster fire of a season.

[Caf]

Their bigs are not very skilled but If you can't see potential in Jones, you do not know basketball. Plus how can it be that bad when they are second in the big east in rebound margin. The bigs are not why they have lost 6 straight, anyone who knows and watches basketball can see that. They are losing because they can't guard guys off the bounce and can't find open shooters. It's as simple as that. Xavier was at home, ahot 49% from the floor, 45% from 3, 81% from the line, won the rebounding battle and had 18 assists, scored 84 points and lost. That is just crazy and shows one how hot Marquette was, they couldn't shoot that well in practice and two, how bad the defense was.

I think the one point you're missing here is interior defense. Obviously that's not entirely on the bigs and guarding off the bounce is part of it too. Marquette lives off of the 3 and they got to the rim at will. They obviously had a lot of success on the 3pt line too though, so maybe our defense just sucks.

[casualfan]

Really poor effort in a must win game and to me it looks like a bunch of guys are checked out.

I did hear an interesting story this morning about Tre wanting to be honored for senior day and being told no.

Anybody hear anything similar?

[XU 87]

It's called a hedge. We've been doing it since Mack has been our coach. The idea is to force the guard to reverse course back to the guard. Ask MOR for details.

Xavier didn't hedge yesterday. Not once. They were switching on every screen. Switching is not hedging.

[casualfan]

Xavier didn't hedge yesterday. Not once. They were switching on every screen. Switching is not hedging.

Correct. They redid the way they handled ball screens which I assume was a result of the way things went game one.

[GoMuskies]

Good god this place is miserable when things are going bad.

It is pretty shocking when the worst stretch of basketball in 35 years doesn't have people super thrilled.

[GoMuskies]

Correct. They redid the way they handled ball screens which I assume was a result of the way things went game one.

Time to look for option #3.

[casualfan]

Time to look for option #3.

The defensive struggles down the stretch is what really has me scratching my head.

We're all the way down to 48 in kenpom mostly because our defense has slipped all the way to 87.

We can talk about Myles and Ed all we want to, but neither one of those guys are a lockdown defender. At least not to the point the defense should be struggling this bad.

One thing in my opinion that kills us defensively is the lack of a rim protector. With the way Mack likes to recruit bigger, slower wings that teams can get by on straight line drives it would be nice to have a more athletic shot blocking enforcer waiting for them at the rim.

[Masterofreality]

Good god this place is miserable when things are going bad. Rally around the team, let's bring on DePaul and see what the hell happens guys. You know the season isn't over yet right? We still have an opportunity to make the tournament with this dumpster fire of a season.

Brother we've lost 6 in a row and coming off a miserable effort in all respects.

What do you want? Wine and Roses? (Waits for the "Whine" retort)

[bleedXblue]

Brother we've lost 6 in a row and coming off a miserable effort in all respects.

What do you want? Wine and Roses? (Waits for the "Whine" retort)

LOL. Exactly.

[IM4X]

I've got a lot of thoughts, but I'm not going to waste my time writing all of them out.

No care, no chemistry, no comraderie. Certainly no effort in an important game that they needed....unlike, at least, the Butler game.

Q returned to his unaggressive self, too many late shot clock situations with resulting miserable turnovers, really horrific "defense" and a coach who seemed more concerned about the crowd's effort pre- game than his own team's.

Obviously Marquette and Butler recruit GAME shooters without worrying about how many "stars" there are behind their names. When is Xavier going to recruit guys who can shoot the rock from out.....other than in practice?

That was the most disgusting performance by a Xavier team that I've seen since the 2004 team up and quit on the court at George Washington. At least that team had a vocal leader in Lionel. This team has no one like that.

Way to disrespect your Seniors and the crowd with that lousy effort. See you in New York....but I doubt for long.

Yes to all of this.

Though regarding Goodin, I have a hunch Q -being the only PG- was instructed to be careful not to do anything stupid to get into foul trouble. He didn't play particularly well.... and how many times in a row is it that he missed a dunk... but he did have some nice passes. Now the teams as a unit (as you have already mentioned) has no sense of care or comraderie or chemistry... and I've noticed that unlike most BE teams, X players don't come to help each other out when a teammate is trapped or picks up his dribble.

[muethibp]

Yes to all of this.

Though regarding Goodin, I have a hunch Q -being the only PG- was instructed to be careful not to do anything stupid to get into foul trouble. He didn't play particularly well.... and how many times in a row is it that he missed a dunk... but he did have some nice passes. Now the teams as a unit (as you have already mentioned) has no sense of care or comraderie or chemistry... and I've noticed that unlike most BE teams, X players don't come to help each other out when a teammate is trapped or picks up his dribble.

I don't think it's malicious or anything. It's just that they (collectively) have a very low basketball IQ. Most of them just do not seem to get where the ball ought to go next, what needs to happen in any particular game situation, or how to play defense as a team. Some of that is surely that more is being asked of players than was expected; some of it is on Mack; and some of it is...well...this is just who they are, I think.

[xavierj]

Really poor effort in a must win game and to me it looks like a bunch of guys are checked out.

I did hear an interesting story this morning about Tre wanting to be honored for senior day and being told no.

Anybody hear anything similar?

I would say no too. Who does he think he is. He's a good shooter not Michael Jordan. He should talk to David West.

[GoMuskies]

Is he on track to graduate this semester? If so, go ahead and honor him if he desires. If not, no way does he get senior honors IMO. He can certainly leave at the end of the year, and no one should be mad at him, but IMO you've got to be getting a diploma to receive that particular honor.

[muskiefan82]

Did anyone else feel like Trevon looked up late, saw he had 2 points, decided he needed to get close to his average, played like he is capable for 5 minutes and scored double figures, then disappeared again? It's like he wasn't even there for 35 minutes. Who leads this team? I couldn't find anyone actually taking over the leadership of this team. They just muddled around and took an individual shot. There were flashes, but nothing consistent. Marquette ran the SAME DAMN play over and over, but it was team based and freed up multiple outlets to either drive or shoot.

X just isn't a good team. They have a few decent pieces, but it isn't working together. Hasn't all year and the talent is too good in this league to ever try to win as five individuals. That was the saddest game I can remember and I was there for the LaSalle debacle at the Gardens. That game was X not having it and LaSalle killing it. I just didn't see any fire last night from the team. No leadership. It was disappointing to say the least.

[IM4X]

I don't think it's malicious or anything. It's just that they (collectively) have a very low basketball IQ. Most of them just do not seem to get where the ball ought to go next, what needs to happen in any particular game situation, or how to play defense as a team. Some of that is surely that more is being asked of players than was expected; some of it is on Mack; and some of it is...well...this is just who they are, I think.

They do look lost out there at times, while other BE teams seem to know where each of their teammates is at all times. I get the loss Ed is likely is going to make this team less dominant but it's not like they had to change everything because he went down. I feel bad for the seniors though-they played with a lot of tenacity.

[TUclutch]

Thanks for spelling it out for me. My dumb self couldn't figure it out on my own. My point was if we win a few championships and make some final fours, like unc, then maybe I can give the team a pass on a bad season. Maybe had they not completely pissed down their leg last year, there would not be so much angst here. Just a thought.

I get what your "point" is, but you continually make our point the relevant and correct one. So until Xavier gets a final four or championship they're not allowed to have a down year? lmao ok.

[AviatorX]

I get what your "point" is, but you continually make our point the relevant and correct one. So until Xavier gets a final four or championship they're not allowed to have a down year? lmao ok.

Yeah to meet XVille's expectations a Coach has to take Xavier places they have never been before. Been down that road with him before. Seems reasonable.

Also for some reason it is ok for blue blood programs to have down years, even when they are always more talented than X, but X cannot have down years. That's an interesting wrinkle to his position I'll admit.

[TUclutch]

Yeah to meet expectations a Coach has to take Xavier places they have never been before. Seems reasonable.

What you said is reasonable. But its not reasonable to demand no down years until it happens or to have the logic/expectations that xville and others are showing. I think some here are downplaying how hard it is to get to that level and how hard it is to have "results" like we're used to at this level. We're playing in a league MUCH better than what we were in prior. There are going to be down years here and there. As has now been said multiple times, it happens to even teams like UNC and others. We're not at the level of being able to be demanding no down seasons. Im frustrated too. Yesterday was atrocious, but Im also one of the few realistic ones here apparently. Mack is getting us recruits better than we've ever had before. I think the program will be fine and next year is the next step to getting a final four team.

[AviatorX]

What you said is reasonable. But its not reasonable to demand no down years until it happens or to have the logic/expectations that xville and others are showing. I think some here are downplaying how hard it is to get to that level and how hard it is to have "results" like we're used to at this level. We're playing in a league MUCH better than what we were in prior. There are going to be down years here and there. As has now been said multiple times, it happens to even teams like UNC and others. We're not at the level of being able to be demanding no down seasons. Im frustrated too. Yesterday was atrocious, but Im also one of the few realistic ones here apparently.

Haha I was agreeing with you. I think it's crazy to hold that high of expectations in a vacuum without evaluating whether other factors (recruiting, scheduling, advanced stat profiles consistent with FF contenders etc.) are trending in the right way. Especially when as much as XVille wants to harp on X choking last season, your season can completely turn on a dude making two incredibly tough shots in 30 seconds.

[X-band '01]

Is he on track to graduate this semester? If so, go ahead and honor him if he desires. If not, no way does he get senior honors IMO. He can certainly leave at the end of the year, and no one should be mad at him, but IMO you've got to be getting a diploma to receive that particular honor.

Was Jalen Reynolds honored last year?

[GoMuskies]

Was Jalen Reynolds honored last year?

Jalen spent four years at Xavier. Did he graduate? Perhaps he hadn't made a decision to leave yet?

[X-band '01]

If he didn't graduate, he would have broken the streak.

[X-band '01]

In the meantime, any countdown on when Xavier will be kicked out of their locker room? We know it's inevitable given the lack of effort last night.

What's astonishing is that until last night's game effort was not the problem.

[SkyWalker]

Did anyone else feel like Trevon looked up late, saw he had 2 points, decided he needed to get close to his average, played like he is capable for 5 minutes and scored double figures, then disappeared again? It's like he wasn't even there for 35 minutes. Who leads this team? I couldn't find anyone actually taking over the leadership of this team. They just muddled around and took an individual shot. There were flashes, but nothing consistent. Marquette ran the SAME DAMN play over and over, but it was team based and freed up multiple outlets to either drive or shoot.

X just isn't a good team. They have a few decent pieces, but it isn't working together. Hasn't all year and the talent is too good in this league to ever try to win as five individuals. That was the saddest game I can remember and I was there for the LaSalle debacle at the Gardens. That game was X not having it and LaSalle killing it. I just didn't see any fire last night from the team. No leadership. It was disappointing to say the least.

The LaSalle game at the Gardens came to my mind watching last night's game too.

[X-band '01]

People also forget the game at UMass in 2006 where the team went through the motions in that one as well. At least that team got to return the favor in the A-10 Tournament the following game.

[TUclutch]

Haha I was agreeing with you. I think it's crazy to hold that high of expectations in a vacuum without evaluating whether other factors (recruiting, scheduling, advanced stat profiles consistent with FF contenders etc.) are trending in the right way. Especially when as much as XVille wants to harp on X choking last season, your season can completely turn on a dude making two incredibly tough shots in 30 seconds.

Lol ok, I was confused based on your original comment. I gotcha now.

[TUclutch]

If he didn't graduate, he would have broken the streak.

Jalen did graduate

[DWXU23]

Yeah to meet XVille's expectations a Coach has to take Xavier places they have never been before. Been down that road with him before. Seems reasonable.

Also for some reason it is ok for blue blood programs to have down years, even when they are always more talented than X, but X cannot have down years. That's an interesting wrinkle to his position I'll admit.
I get your point but UNC fired the coach who led them to the down years. I wouldnt say it was acceptable.

[AviatorX]

I get your point but UNC fired the coach who led them to the down years. I wouldnt say it was acceptable.

I agree with you completely. My post was spelling out what I think XVille's position is based on his posts.

[Caf]

Thanks for spelling it out for me. My dumb self couldn't figure it out on my own. My point was if we win a few championships and make some final fours, like unc, then maybe I can give the team a pass on a bad season. Maybe had they not completely pissed down their leg last year, there would not be so much angst here. Just a thought.

I had to see this for myself. This is one of the most absurd sentences I've ever read.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Who knows what is really happening here? Just by what I saw, I am beginning to think that this was Myles' team after all. He got suspended and the team lost it's identity. Trevon didn't pick up the reigns, quite possibly it was Ed and when he went down Tre just took over until he went down. Now I think the demeanor of the team is that Trevon getting his and that's it. Though last night he did none of that.

This feels like Trevon just wants to showcase what he can do to move on to the next level and the other players know it.

[D-West & PO-Z]

This feels like Trevon just wants to showcase what he can do to move on to the next level and the other players know it.

I'm not really sure how one gets to this line of thinking? Its not like Trevon is out there jacking shots and forcing. He took 9 shots last night. Gaston took 9, JP took 17.

How does it feel like Trevon is just trying to showcase what he can do and move on to the next level?

[Juice]

I'm not really sure how one gets to this line of thinking? Its not like Trevon is out there jacking shots and forcing. He took 9 shots last night. Gaston took 9, JP took 17.

How does it feel like Trevon is just trying to showcase what he can do and move on to the next level?

When you have a narrative to push, you can't let facts get in the way.

[muskiefan82]

If that was Trevon showcasing what he can do, he isn't going anywhere.

[GIMMFD]

Brother we've lost 6 in a row and coming off a miserable effort in all respects.

What do you want? Wine and Roses? (Waits for the "Whine" retort)

Don't get me wrong, I agree things suck. I thought after the brawl when we lost to Oral Roberts things sucked, but right now things really suck. Sometimes things are out of your control, at the end of the day, it's our alma mater, and the school we love, but things just don't line up a particular year. We still have some games, and this team isn't one to look to be turning heads, but let's just see what happens. I know it's an awful saying, but there's always next year. Our program is on the rise, I'm happy we're at a place where all these injuries happen, we have 18 wins, and we still aren't satisfied. That's good to have hunger to succeed, and it's good to have constructive criticism.

[muskiefan82]

I do have a hunger to succeed. Unfortunately, I don't have the responsibility of putting the ball in the basket or defending the opposition. What I need is for the guys in the jerseys to show some level of fierceness that is sorely lacking. I would honestly have been okay with someone, anyone, being overly aggressive and getting a T last night, but instead all I got was a flagrant 1 from Macura for wrapping a guy up on a breakout.

This team actually misses the Jalen Reynolds "I might kill you" factor that he brought. They don't have it. It just isn't out there.

[Juice]

I do have a hunger to succeed. Unfortunately, I don't have the responsibility of putting the ball in the basket or defending the opposition. What I need is for the guys in the jerseys to show some level of fierceness that is sorely lacking. I would honestly have been okay with someone, anyone, being overly aggressive and getting a T last night, but instead all I got was a flagrant 1 from Macura for wrapping a guy up on a breakout.

This team actually misses the Jalen Reynolds "I might kill you" factor that he brought. They don't have it. It just isn't out there.

Revisit what our fans said about that same factor last year.

[muskiefan82]

Revisit what our fans said about that same factor last year.

I know, but I would take that ridiculousness now over what I am seeing. There just isn't any fight in this team. Jalen would have slammed the ball on #30's head last night just for fun. I would take that right now. Technical/Suspension be damned.

[TUclutch]

Revisit what our fans said about that same factor last year.

Likely the same morons who are spewing the garbage now.

[TUclutch]

I'm happy we're at a place where all these injuries happen, we have 18 wins, and we still aren't satisfied. That's good to have hunger to succeed, and it's good to have constructive criticism.

Problem is majority on the board complaining arent being constructive.

[GoMuskies]

Problem is majority on the board complaining arent being constructive.

What's there to be constructive about? We objectively suck. It happens sometimes, and some of the reasons for it were unavoidable. But we do suck, and the current players and coaches DO bear some responsibility for that.

[ReturnOfTheMack]

What's there to be constructive about? We objectively suck. It happens sometimes, and some of the reasons for it were unavoidable. But we do suck, and the current players and coaches DO bear some responsibility for that.

You lost all credibility with "objectively suck". The reason that's such an asinine comment is because you LITERALLY cannot "objectively suck" because everybody's frame of reference for sucking is different. Objective, at its very definition, means rooted in factual basis. Suck, at its very contextualization, is a very SUBJECTIVE thing. Sorry for taking you to class but you obviously need it. Jesus this board goes dumb during trying times. For the record, that's me SUBJECTIVELY categorizing this board as dumb.

[casualfan]

You lost all credibility with "objectively suck". The reason that's such an asinine comment is because you LITERALLY cannot "objectively suck" because everybody's frame of reference for sucking is different. Objective, at its very definition, means rooted in factual basis. Suck, at its very contextualization, is a very SUBJECTIVE thing. Sorry for taking you to class but you obviously need it. Jesus this board goes dumb during trying times. For the record, that's me SUBJECTIVELY categorizing this board as dumb.


This post objectively sucks.

[GoMuskies]

You lost all credibility with "objectively suck". The reason that's such an asinine comment is because you LITERALLY cannot "objectively suck" because everybody's frame of reference for sucking is different. Objective, at its very definition, means rooted in factual basis. Suck, at its very contextualization, is a very SUBJECTIVE thing. Sorry for taking you to class but you obviously need it. Jesus this board goes dumb during trying times. For the record, that's me SUBJECTIVELY categorizing this board as dumb.

No, our team objectively sucks.

[Masterofreality]

You lost all credibility with "objectively suck". The reason that's such an asinine comment is because you LITERALLY cannot "objectively suck" because everybody's frame of reference for sucking is different. Objective, at its very definition, means rooted in factual basis. Suck, at its very contextualization, is a very SUBJECTIVE thing. Sorry for taking you to class but you obviously need it. Jesus this board goes dumb during trying times. For the record, that's me SUBJECTIVELY categorizing this board as dumb.

When you lose 6 games in a row and get torched on defense in 2 straight home games that you needed to win, you OBJECTIVELY SUCK....at that point in time....which is THIS point in time.