Xavier @ Villanova Game Thread (January 10, 2018)

[American X]

http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/ncaa/500/2752.png&h=150&w=150http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/ncaa/500/222.png&h=150&w=150

#10 Xavier Musketeers (15-2, 3-1) vs. #1 Villanova Wildcats (14-1, 2-1)

Time: 8:00 p.m. ET

Wells Fargo Center | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

TV: FS1

Radio: 700 WLW Listen Live (https://www.iheart.com/live/700wlw-1713/?autoplay=true&pname=15400&campid=header&cid=index.html) & Westwood One

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

Live Stats (http://www.villanova.com/gametracker/launch/gt_mbaskbl.html?event=1574366&school=nova&sport=mbaskbl&camefrom=&startschool=&)

GoXavier Preview (http://goxavier.com/news/2018/1/8/mens-basketball-no-10-xavier-heads-to-philadelphia-for-wednesday-showdown-with-no-1-villanova.aspx)

Full Game Notes (https://s3.amazonaws.com/sidearm.sites/goxavier.com/documents/2018/1/8/2017_18_Xavier_Game_Notes_game_18_at_VILLANOVA.pdf )

Philadelphia Inquirer Preview (http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/colleges/villanova/villanova-xavier-basketball-preview-top-10-associated-press-rankings-poll-20180109.html)


*check back for more links and articles

[UCGRAD4X]

I think we take them down! Just a feeling it's going to be a great day in Muskieland!

[Xupergirl]

I like the spirit. We need it. Trying to believe in them

[paulxu]

Stumbled a bit. Time to get back at it.....

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41YbQWNFa5L._SY355_.jpg

[X Factor]

Nova -9

Vegas knows X's history vs Nova. HUGE spread between 2 Top 10 teams.

[Lloyd Braun]

I thought it would be double digits. Should be by game time....

[XUFan09]

I got my dad to give me 12. We do spreads on every X game. This spread relative to Vegas I consider an accomplishment lol.

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[xeus]

I got my dad to give me 12. We do spreads on every X game. This spread relative to Vegas I consider an accomplishment lol.

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Is your dad xukeith?

[XUFan09]

Is your dad xukeith?Lol no, thank God. My dad has a lot of faith in X, so it's always an argument over spread. I always want to give him fewerr points in most games and always fight for more points in the games where X is an underdog.

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[Emp]

I'm hoping Q goes to Brunson point guard class and learns a lot. What could have been this season if Mack had held him.

[Masterofreality]

Going into tonight with no expectations, but hopeful. Gonna enjoy seeing how this team handles the Big Stage again, though.
(And, yeah, The Coz will call me on the "High Expectations/No Excuses" line. :leghumper:

To me, tho, Saturday vs Creighton is WAAAAAAAAAAY more important than tonight. Cannot lose home League games. The Hall lost last night so everybody has one loss and there is going to be a scramble with losses all over for everybody.

[GoMuskies]

Can't get Xavier +415 very often these days. I'm thrilled to have it. Nova is really good, but they're far from unbeatable. Should be fun.

[drudy23]

Mack is a good coach. Good coaches usually have their teams super prepared after bad games. We shall see.

Feeling optimistic about this one.

[American X]

Time to grab the biggest win of the college basketball season. Who's afraid a Generic Mascot?

[Lamont Sanford]

Mack is a good coach. Good coaches usually have their teams super prepared after bad games. We shall see.

Feeling optimistic about this one.

Agreed that Mack is a good coach, but Jay Wright is a GREAT coach.

Our Lady of Victory...pray for us!

[GoMuskies]

Is it gametime yet?

[xu koop scoop]

My longtime buddy Milan, who just passed on at 63, used to go to all games with me before I started wintering in Florida.
But our motto was always the same, "Entertain us. Just have a chance to win the game in the last 2 minutes."

[Xavier]

In terms of seeding, this is obviously the biggest game of the season. A win would move us up a full seed line at the end of the season. A loss doesn't hurt at all, really. What an opportunity.

[American X]

But our motto was always the same, "Entertain us. Just have a chance to win the game in the last 2 minutes."

That is a touch less than ambitious. Our motto was always the same too, "To crush your enemies, to see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentations of their women."

[whopper]

as important as it is to win it is almost equally important to play well. Limit turnovers, get long rebounds, get good shots(and hope they fall), get back on fast break transition,feed the post. I think you will see Scruggs a bit as you cant play Brunson without getting fouls. You will know a bit tonight how realistic the final 4 prospects are. I am hopeful

[Masterofreality]

That is a touch less than ambitious. Our motto was always the same too, "To crush your enemies, to see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentations of their women."

Yaaaaaaaaaasss!

The ISIS of the Interweb, the oppressive Ogre that Overlords this Board, has me in a dirty dusty desert prison, but public reps for this.

[American X]

Enquirer Preview (https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/2018/01/09/no-10-xavier-tested-top-ranked-villanova/1015024001/)

Fox Sports Preview (https://www.foxsports.com/college-basketball/boxscore?id=96111&type=5)

Banners on the Parkway Preview (https://www.bannersontheparkway.com/2018/1/10/16871954/xavier-v-villanova-preview-matchups-keys-to-the-game-big-east-basketball)

[SkyWalker]

as important as it is to win it is almost equally important to play well. Limit turnovers, get long rebounds, get good shots(and hope they fall), get back on fast break transition,feed the post. I think you will see Scruggs a bit as you cant play Brunson without getting fouls. You will know a bit tonight how realistic the final 4 prospects are. I am hopeful

Limit turnovers, limit turnovers, and limit turnovers (as in 8 or less) are the top three things X needs to do tonight to beat Villanova tonight.

[American X]

Limit turnovers, limit turnovers, and limit turnovers (as in 8 or less) are the top three things X needs to do tonight to beat Villanova tonight.

What about throwing the ball directly to a Villanova player? Would that be okay?

[GoMuskies]

What about throwing the ball directly to a Villanova player? Would that be okay?

So you're saying limit Scruggs, limit Scruggs, limit Scruggs?

[paulxu]

So, Johnson and Raftery on the call.

Also see Westwood One is doing the radio nationally. Will see if it's on my local ESPN radio station.

[xukeith]

Is your dad xukeith?

Will you take VU with no points given?

[xukeith]

Scruggs and Marshall were freaked out during Providence game. Giving up the ball and playing wild. Hope they are secure tonight?

[nuts4xu]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DTLzT2eXUAEgAio.jpg:large

[American X]

So you're saying limit Scruggs, limit Scruggs, limit Scruggs?

No. Playing Scruggs gives Goodin the rest to eat a cheese steak.

[letskeepitreal]

This game has tremendous upside if we can pull it off and limited downside unless we get absolutely smoked or injuries to key players. If we want to be considered the best, we've gotta cross this bridge. Feed the ball inside, shoot well and limit turnovers and we've got a chance. Go X

[American X]

injuries to key players

Like attempted murder of our point guard?

[mistabeecee41]

Like attempted murder of our point guard?

I live in Philly and am good friends with multiple Nova fans. I've been trolling them all day in a group chat with texts like these. Clearly kidding, but still funny.

edmond sumner is gone, so which Xavier player will well-known bad guy Jay Wright maliciously try to injure this year?

[HenryMuto]

It be great if this is a close game at the end. Hope X doesn't fall behind double digits straight off the bat and play catch up all night.

[GoMuskies]

Is it almost time to start drinking?

[bjf123]

What about throwing the ball directly to a Villanova player? Would that be okay?

You mean the guys in the white uniforms right in front of you?


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[UCGRAD4X]

Is it almost time to start drinking?

It's always happy hour somewhere. So...
....Yeah.

[American X]

You mean the guys in the white uniforms right in front of you?

No, I mean those tall guys in white uniforms waving their arms right in front of you.

[The Coz]

Nearing arena via ride share. Drug dealer thinks some bout some orange peel acid.


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[xudash]

Chilly, chilly.

[XUFan09]

Per usual, the game starts off with Villanova making all their tough shots. Xavier has had some dumb moments on the other end, which doesn't help the margin, of course.

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[X Factor]

We'll be down 20 and out of it before the second half.

[GoMuskies]

Nice fucking start

[Blue Blooded-05]

They are going to roast a 2-3 zone

[X Factor]

No mental toughness...

Villanova has good shooters and we let them get off easy looks.

[GoMuskies]

Trevon is just awful right now. And taking bad shots.

[Grizzx12]

This looks like it'll be a long night

[Xville]

Per usual, the game starts off with Villanova making all their tough shots. Xavier has had some dumb moments on the other end, which doesn't help the margin, of course.

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Wide open threes are not tough shots. Xavier will not go anywhere this year unless they decide they want to play defense. The difference in intensity on the defensive side of the court is mind boggling

[X Factor]

We can't execute...throw it away...what's new lately.

[GoMuskies]

Naji needs to come in and be big. We need his athleticism.

[X Factor]

Wide open threes are not tough shots. Xavier will not go anywhere this year unless they decide they want to play defense. The difference in intensity on the defensive side of the court is mind boggling

Exactly. We've had one clean look from three and JP missed. Nova has had at least five good looks and have made 3 or 4.

[stammina0721]

This looks like it'll be a long night

No its a short night cause the game is already over. I'm glad I bet Nova minus 9. Xavier is a shell of themselves for no reason. This team used to pass the ball. Offensively this is the most selfish team now in the Big East. JP launching that dumb shot with 22 seconds on the shot clock. Trevon wont take a jumper without flailing his feet in a million directions and the game is 8 minutes old and I have not seen one entry pass yet into the lane. At least I can already turn it off knowing the bet is already won

[XUFan09]

Wide open threes are not tough shots. Xavier will not go anywhere this year unless they decide they want to play defense. The difference in intensity on the defensive side of the court is mind bogglingObviously. They've been hitting the tough shots too, though. You can take some defensive breakdowns if at least the possessions with good defense lead to stops.

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[Grizzx12]

Have to credit them so far. They're packing 3 guys in the paint to take away our size advantage and we cant find anyone open

[GoMuskies]

Match up much better with our most athletic guys on the floor.

[XUFan09]

Holy shit, they're actually missing shots now, contested or wide-open. Xavier needs to consistently get points on the other end if they want to make something of it, though. Hasn't looked like that is a reasonable expectation.

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[Grizzx12]

Damn, someone needs to tell our bigs that kicking it out if a shot isn't there is always an option

[GoMuskies]

Just stay within shouting distance until halftime.

[XUFan09]

I don't really know what Tyrique was doing there. His footwork was off, and it wasn't due to the defense. He should have been able to get whatever he wanted in that position.

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[GoMuskies]

Also, this may be the first game for "New Scruggs". So far, generally so good for him.

[GoMuskies]

And as soon as I say that Scruggs gets completely embarrassed. Lol

[Lloyd Braun]

Anyone have any data on how many NBA 3s we shoot when at Wells Fargo?

[XUFan09]

Scruggs has fantastic defensive moments...And then he's a turnstile.

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[X Factor]

These Top 10 matchups with Nova are so anti-climatic.

These should be heavyweight fights, instead they look like Mike Tyson vs. some bum.

[GoMuskies]

Good Lord Q is a terrible shooter.

[XUFan09]

Good Lord Q is a terrible shooter.Usually he is decent with the floater, but he's short-armed both of them tonight.

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[Lloyd Braun]

Usually he is decent with the floater

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Is he?

[Grizzx12]

How is that not a shooting foul?

[XUFan09]

Is he?Yes.

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[GoMuskies]

Ok, win this war and we've got something.

[XUFan09]

How is that not a shooting foul?That was more of a shooting foul than most of those "fouls" on a three-pointer where the shooter leans heavily into the contest.

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[Grizzx12]

Well done Big O!! Can't believe that didn't end up in points

[GoMuskies]

Fuck the Augustinians! Jesuits rule!

[X Factor]

We have to finish these last 4 minutes strong.

Can Trevon make a jumper? What's he shooting from three in conference play?

[Grizzx12]

That was more of a shooting foul than most of those "fouls" on a three-pointer.

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Exactly, that was just JP seeing him over commit and not sticking out a leg or anything cheap. Unreal

[xdude]

On Tre,

Every player goes cold. He's just got to get his groove back.

[Grizzx12]

Another front end miss by Trevon

[GoMuskies]

Jesus Trevon.

[XUFan09]

And now they're hitting again. Opportunity lost.

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[GoMuskies]

Awful finish to the half. Terrible offense leading to awful defense.

[Lloyd Braun]

Wide open 3s... yikes.

[X Factor]

Villanova is so much better at executing on offense and defense.

[Grizzx12]

Back to trading turnovers for baskets....wonderful

[GoMuskies]

Good God we've been shitty this war. Couldn't afford this.

[X Factor]

Why are always one of Nova's easiest conference games?

[X Factor]

That 9 point spread was generous.

[GoMuskies]

10 excellent minutes ruined by 10 really shitty minutes. Disappointing.

[XUFan09]

Brunson fell down into Marshall's space. How was that a foul on Marshall?

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[Lloyd Braun]

Nova sure does flop a lot for a really good team.

[GoMuskies]

Nova sure does flop a lot for a really good team.

I mean, JP Macura is on our team.

[Xupergirl]

I think they can do it if Gates actually tries. Bluiett’s shoulder is definitely killing him.

[X Factor]

I think they can do it if Gates actually tries. Bluiett’s shoulder is definitely killing him.

Did Trevon email you or something and tell you that?

[XUFan09]

Nova sure does flop a lot for a really good team.The "reach-in" Marshall was called for in the scramble for the loose ball was also nonsense. Those two fouls in the last minute really didn't help, turning into four points at the line. Before that, I thought it was generally a well-officiated half with a couple make-ups in the mix that balanced out.

X got a few defensive kills in that half where they could have got back into the game. The offensive performance just sucked and took away the chance.

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[Xville]

As others have said, that 9 point spread was generous.

Overall, there is a difference in both skill and effort between x and nova.

[GoMuskies]

So, we had the ball down 7 when Naji went out of control down the lane and threw the ball off the side of the backboard leading to a wide open three on the other end. That's the key sequence so far from my perspective.

[Xupergirl]

Why else would the star player miss his free throw and not make any of the baskets he’s shot besides one? And the one he did make looked at little off. Either that or he’s lost his ability.

[Grizzx12]

So, we had the ball down 7 when Naji went out of control down the lane and threw the ball off the side of the backboard leading to a wide open three on the other end. That's the key sequence so far from my perspective.

Or down 7 shooting 1-1 and miss thee front end. That stands out to me

[XUFan09]

Or down 7 shooting 1-1 and miss thee front end. That stands out to meYeah, I think these are the two key moments. Psychologically, the game changes if you get it to 5 or less. Two missed chances.

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[GoMuskies]

X +2.5 second half. I'm a sucker!

[X Factor]

Why else would the star player miss his free throw and not make any of the baskets he’s shot besides one? And the one he did make looked at little off. Either that or he’s lost his ability.

It's called a slump, and also Big East teams know how to defend him. BE coaches have seen him for 4 years and know a lot more about his game than the coach from Morehead St.

This isn't the first slump of his career. When he's on, he can be a nightmare (NCAA tourney last year). When he's off, he plays like this, and being below average athletically, makes it even harder for him.

[Xville]

I will say that overall I liked what I saw from Scruggs that half. Hoping he can build on that for the second half and the rest of the season.

[Grizzx12]

Jesus Trevon

[GoMuskies]

Trevon didn't even challenge the three. What the actual fuck?

[Xville]

Fucking play some defense...twice already this half, Villanova made one pass and the guy was wide open for a three, that is absolutely inexcusable.

[GoMuskies]

Tre hit a FT. Nice.

[X Factor]

We suck on defense. Make it way too easy on Nova, and everyone else basically.

[GoMuskies]

Jesus. Just start the bus. That 26 footer?!?

[Lloyd Braun]

Uncle

[Xville]

About to get completely run out of the gym again.

[Grizzx12]

Our defense this half has been embarrassing

[Blue Blooded-05]

Goodnight folks

[X Factor]

No resistance on defense. X just allows Nova to get wherever they want and get whatever they want.

[GoMuskies]

So Tre follows up an airball with a forced 25 footer. What the fuck is going on?

[Grizzx12]

15 points in barely 4 minutes.....yikes

[Porkopolis]

This is brutal. Tre is really in the wilderness right now. Hope things turn around on Saturday.

[X Factor]

1-9 vs Nova. We look like a 16 seed vs a 1 seed. Fox should stop hyping our games with Nova.

[GoMuskies]

Just beat Creighton so this week isn't a complete disaster.

[XUFan09]

Man, it's painful to see them have MOST of a really good defensive possession, only for someone not to rotate to O'Mara's man on the hedge, leading to the easy layup.

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[Xville]

Mack needs to light a fire on this team because right now it's not there and hasn't been for a while. Lose to a mediocre team in providence and this is the effort the team comes up with the next game? Awful.

[X Factor]

Just beat Creighton so this week isn't a complete disaster.

Gonna be tough.

[X Factor]

Bridges just takes it away from JP like a little kid.

[xdude]

Painful, sure, but V is number one for a reason, and they always do this to us. Thought it might be different this year. Ha!

[X Factor]

Painful, sure, but V is number one for a reason, and they always do this to us. Thought it might be different this year. Ha!

Like I said, we're Nova's easiest home game every year.

[GoMuskies]

I guess KenPom is right about us. Pretty good. Pretty good. That's all.

[X Factor]

I guess KenPom is right about us. Pretty good. Pretty good. That's all.

Just have to hope we get hot in March again and make another "miracle" run instead of being expected to make a run.

[xukeith]

It be great if this is a close game at the end. Hope X doesn't fall behind double digits straight off the bat and play catch up all night.

Another blowout.

In 2nd half, after missing so many shots and free throws, Bluiett is hurting Xavier by ball hogging. I guess he doesn't play a set play unless OMara kicks it out for him for a good 3 attempt and make.

X has 3 years to get 5 star elite NBA talent to be a top 5 team. X can recruit. X will be better.

[HenryMuto]

Sigh

[GoMuskies]

Let's have a mini run to at least make it interesting. Nice Naji!

[xukeith]

Macura and Trevon shut down. X playing like JV team be it VU is red hot and perhaps a match up issue.

[X Factor]

JP can't keep anyone in front of him.

[Grizzx12]

Perfect time for another turnover

[GoMuskies]

There's the patented Scruggs to the other team play!!!

[X Factor]

Scruggs continues to make 5th grade level passes on the perimeter.

[GoMuskies]

We're just a simple 15-0 run away from being right back in this thing!

[xdude]

We're just a simple 15-0 run away from being right back in this thing!

Anything is possible indeed! Some are just not likely...

[X Factor]

If you can't see the completely different mindset on defense between Nova and X, I don't know what to say.

Brunson isn't the fastest, most athletic kid on the court, but he plays smart defense. He know's how to defend.

[GoMuskies]

Q missed the rim twice from one foot! Lol

[X Factor]

Goodin hit BOTH sides of the backboard on the same play!

[Grizzx12]

Another by Scruggs

[GoMuskies]

Scruggs really has patented that play!

[X Factor]

Scruggs really has patented that play!

:whiteflag:

[kellernr]

Top 5 to low 20s come monday

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[GoMuskies]

Hilariously embarrassing defense.

[X Factor]

Does Mack coach defense?

[X Factor]

Kanter needs to play 25 minutes a night.

[kellernr]

Does Mack coach defense?He can tell them What to do but the players have to play. Q is slow on D and doesn't rotate.

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[X Factor]

I shudder at the thought of next year. Who is going to score? Especially from three.

[kellernr]

Q missed the rim twice from one foot! LolI really hope we can find some shooters for next year. Gates might be out best offensive option next season which isn't good.

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[mohr5150]

Kanter needs to play 25 minutes a night.

Kanter playing as much as he has is one of the reasons our defense sucks was. He's a break even player.

[GoMuskies]

I shudder at the thought of next year. Who is going to score? Especially from three.

Naji

[kellernr]

I shudder at the thought of next year. Who is going to score? Especially from three.I heard Jones can make 3s in practice

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[X Factor]

Kanter playing as much as he has is one of the reasons our defense sucks was. He's a break even player.

False.

[whopper]

Not fun and I am sad do say the Bruson better than q, Bridges better than Trevon, Divencenso better than Macura, Pascal better than Gates, Booth better than Marshall. Our depth does not help if brunson plays flawless point guard as other players dont get tired or have to make decisions. Going to big men constantly is fools gold in today's game sad to say. Lets see the last 8 minutes of pride. Pretend it's zero zero

[Lloyd Braun]

Kanter playing as much as he has is one of the reasons our defense sucks was. He's a break even player.

This is very true yet people don’t see that. They want him starting over Gates.

[scoscox]

I wouldn’t be against harden getting in and lifting a little bit

[GoMuskies]

This is very true yet people don’t see that. They want him starting over Gates.

I want Kaiser Kanter to start.

[X Factor]

This is very true yet people don’t see that. They want him starting over Gates.

This is not true. Have you seen everyone else play defense? I want him starting for Tyrique.

[GoMuskies]

Q Is just awful tonight. But Scruggs is worse.

[X Factor]

Wide open three. That was Kanter's fault.

[Xville]

Playing a 131 against Nova? Seriously? Sorry but that's fucking stupid

[stammina0721]

It's called a slump, and also Big East teams know how to defend him. BE coaches have seen him for 4 years and know a lot more about his game than the coach from Morehead St.

This isn't the first slump of his career. When he's on, he can be a nightmare (NCAA tourney last year). When he's off, he plays like this, and being below average athletically, makes it even harder for him.

Why does Xavier even go to Nova? Just forfeit and save the travel expense. I'm sorry but we are the Dayton of this conference. Will always be near the top, but will never win the conference and will play in Nova for 25 years and never win once ( already 20% of the way there being 0-5)

[xukeith]

I know he is a frosh but Scruggs is really disappointing. TO's and sillly high school plays. Can't wait for his sophomore year.

VU is treating X like a 13 seed.

[kellernr]

Does Scruggs ever know his defensive assignment? His guy is always wide open

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[Grizzx12]

Q Is just awful tonight. But Scruggs is worse.

JP has been awful as well. Kaiser and Omara have been invisible

[GoMuskies]

Trevon should sit for a while if he's hurt. He's actually making the team worse right now. Which is hard to do.

[xukeith]

At least JP makes free throws. #5 (I won't mention the name) has NO confidence. HE has to be injured.

[X Factor]

Kanter just gave up another three from the bench.

[Grizzx12]

Well I was hoping the Providence game would light a fire, if this doesn't I'm not sure what will

[Xville]

Great call mack playing the zone against nova. What exactly was he trying to accomplish going to that defense?

[kellernr]

Fuck it. Bring in the walk ons. At least they will hustle

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[xukeith]

Trevon should sit for a while if he's hurt. He's actually making the team worse right now. Which is hard to do.

Agree. Get him sit for 7-10 days. Ice massage. and run to keep in shape.

He will not be close to 1st time Big East team.

[X Factor]

No way Kanter is the reason our defense sucks. Is he a great defender? No, but X doesn't have any great defenders.

[GoMuskies]

Why are Trevon and JP in?!?

[paulxu]

What about throwing the ball directly to a Villanova player? Would that be okay?

Did you tell him to do that? I've just watched him do it 3 times.

We're actually out rebounding them, and losing by 28. Ugh.

[mohr5150]

Nice defense, senior on freshman.

[X Factor]

Might as well sit JP too cause he can't throw it in the ocean either.

[xukeith]

Well remember the cincy enquirer X beat writer.

He wrote so much how X wins a ton if they win OR lose tonight.

[vee4xu]

X being outscored 30-9 from 3-pt line. They have 12 turnovers to only 5 for Villanova and Villanova has none is second half.

I have been a Xavier fan since I was 11 years old in 1967. So, this comes from a place of love for my Muskies. Here goes: Until and unless proven otherwise, Xavier is Villanova's bitch. We need to remember this when we wonder why the X doesn't get that national love, we fans think they deserve. No one cares how X does against Morehead State or Kent State. They care about how they play against Villanova and Providence on the road.

Night, night all.

[X Factor]

That was Kanter's fault Paschall abused Trevon on defense.

[bigdiggins]

Remember in Nov when Trevon was good at basketball.

[Lloyd Braun]

No way Kanter is the reason our defense sucks. Is he a great defender? No, but X doesn't have any great defenders.

No one said he’s the reason our defense sucks. You just can’t have Kanter, Trevon, and JP on the floor and play man defense effectively against most of these teams.

[scoscox]

Jp’s plus minus has gotta be somewhere close to triple digits negative. Holy hell hes been bad

[GoMuskies]

Love Naji. Gonna be a stud.

[xukeith]

Bluiett horrible again from free throw line. Naji Marshall is playing way better than him. Kanter playing way better than all X players.

[mohr5150]

That was Kanter's fault Paschall abused Trevon on defense.

I said he was one of the reasons. Blew It is another big reason. His defense sucks, too. Always has. So does Jo's. But when Kanter is in, the difference is the score almost never goes in a positive direction for X.

[X Factor]

No one said he’s the reason our defense sucks. You just can’t have Kanter, Trevon, and JP on the floor and play man defense effectively against most of these teams.

Because having Sean or Tyrique just makes us way better on defense. No way.

This team's only hope is to out score the opponent, regardless of who's on the court.

We've been bad defensively for 4 of the past 5 years. Only the 15'-16' team was ranked in the Top 40 on defense by KenPom.

[kellernr]

Agree. Get him sit for 7-10 days. Ice massage. and run to keep in shape.

He will not be close to 1st time Big East team.Can't sit him against the blue jays. We can sit him for the Johnnies but will need him again for seton hall

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[xukeith]

At least Hardin is in.

[GoMuskies]

Creighton is the exact wrong team for us to be playing with our current defense.

[kellernr]

I said he was one of the reasons. Blew It is another big reason. His defense sucks, too. Always has. So does Jo's. But when Kanter is in, the difference is the score almost never goes in a positive direction for X.You have Kanter confused with omara. Kanter may give a bucket but comes right back down and scores. Sean gets out rebounded by a pale Italian guard

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[GoMuskies]

Can't sit him against the blue jays. We can sit him for the Johnnies but will need him again for seton hall

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I disagree. With hurt Trevon, we're worse with him than without him.

[xu82]

Does Naji have almost 3 times as many points as JP? Ouch.

[bigdiggins]

It's called a slump, and also Big East teams know how to defend him. BE coaches have seen him for 4 years and know a lot more about his game than the coach from Morehead St.

This isn't the first slump of his career. When he's on, he can be a nightmare (NCAA tourney last year). When he's off, he plays like this, and being below average athletically, makes it even harder for him.

He has not shot the ball well since Colorado. 8 games. Out of 18. That's not a slump it's half the season.

[whopper]

we have had very few offensive rebounds, shockingly few. This is back to the drawing board. I am hopeful. V is the most skilled team in the country

[stammina0721]

I made an entire thread dedicated to saying Blueitt should be sat until healthy and got crucified. Does this mean sentiment is changing?

[xu82]

I disagree. With hurt Trevon, we're worse with him than without him.

I’m no doctor, but it seems we might want to chill him until he’s better.

[X Factor]

I made an entire thread dedicated to saying Blueitt should be sat until healthy and got crucified. Does this mean sentiment is changing?

Show me a quote from Mack or Trevon saying his shoulder is affecting his play. I haven't seen or heard one.

[GoMuskies]

I made an entire thread dedicated to saying Blueitt should be sat until healthy and got crucified. Does this mean sentiment is changing?

I'm with you now. He doesn't seem able to play through it. He's making us worse. Not his fault if he's hurt, but it's not working.

[Xuperman]

Did the bench just log more minutes than the starters?

[GoMuskies]

Did the bench just log more minutes than the starters?

They were slightly less bad than the starters.

[kellernr]

Show me a quote from Mack or Trevon saying his shoulder is affecting his play. I haven't seen or heard one.His shoulder and apparently his leg are jacked up. Macks not going to come out and say Tre is hurt. Just looks like he is making excuses then.

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[XUFan09]

I made an entire thread dedicated to saying Blueitt should be sat until healthy and got crucified. Does this mean sentiment is changing?How long you're suggesting is what is friggin' insane.

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[X Factor]

His shoulder and apparently his leg are jacked up. Macks not going to come out and say Tre is hurt. Just looks like he is making excuses then.

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So he's just running an injured Trevon out there for the hell of it?

[xukeith]

BE exposes Trevon as a 3rd team player. Overseas is waiting for him. I never though X would really win tonight. The annual ass kicking resumes.

Hope they develop a strategy for 2nd or 3rd place with a 12-6 record which is good. VU is a #1 seed. Maybe X is a 2-3 seed. Lots of develop time for Hardin and get a set of defense to play.

Losses to go: at Creighton, at Seton Hall, at "name that Other team". Home loss to Villanova.That is 6 BE losses which is good.

[GoMuskies]

How long you're suggesting is what is friggin' insane.

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That's probably true, too. But a couple weeks would probably be good. I wish he'd have sat the last week for sure.

[Xupergirl]

And someone practically scolded me for saying they would lose by 18. Look at it now...

[Backyard Champ]

What in the world has happened with Gates?

[X Factor]

What in the world has happened with Gates?

He's one dimensional and teams are figuring out how to defend Xavier. Another 1-2 night from Gates for 3 points.

But everyone is saying Kanter shouldn't play more because of his defense.

[GoMuskies]

I'd like to go out with Jay Wright and Raf tonight. I bet they're going to have a big night.

[IM4X]

Villanova outplayed outhustled, outcoached X. They play balls-to-the-wall and give complete effort every minute of the game- always have. We come out sluggish and play lazy to start games recently. We get inexcusably sloppy and slow and our players look clueless as to what to do at times.

I sure hope this team gets their act together.


JP and Tre just looked aweful today. Neither is the leader they need to be right now. Tre must have a bad shoulder because he is short on every shot- even his free throws.

This Vilanova team and Jay Wright are as good as it gets. They certainly look like the number 1 team being coached by the best coach in college basketball.
number

[RoseyMuskie]

Mack and Trevon aren’t going to reveal how bad Tre’s shoulder is hurting...the only benefit to releasing said info is to appease the fan base, and that’s not a valid reason to release injury info.

[X Factor]

Goodin 0-7 from the field.

[XUFan09]

That's probably true, too. But a couple weeks would probably be good. I wish he'd have sat the last week for sure.I could see reason in a game or two if there's something physical and it's not just mental. It wouldn't surprise me, though, if there WAS something physical (e.g. when he re-aggravated his shoulder), but now he's just struggling with mentally getting over it. If so, he needs to play in order to work through it.

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[Masterofreality]

Going into tonight with no expectations, but hopeful. Gonna enjoy seeing how this team handles the Big Stage again, though.
(And, yeah, The Coz will call me on the "High Expectations/No Excuses" line. :leghumper:

To me, tho, Saturday vs Creighton is WAAAAAAAAAAY more important than tonight. Cannot lose home League games. The Hall lost last night so everybody has one loss and there is going to be a scramble with losses all over for everybody.

Yup. Just yup.

[SkyWalker]

Simply look at the lines for Tre, JP, Q and Gates. Thats explains the nearly 30 point loss.

[kellernr]

Goodin 0-7 from the field.That's about right for him. How can a guard be that bad at finishing around the rim?

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[GoMuskies]

I could see reason in a game or two if there's something physical and it's not just mental. It wouldn't surprise me, though, if there WAS something physical (e.g. when he re-aggravated his shoulder), but now he's just struggling with mentally getting over it. If so, he needs to play in order to work through it.

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To me, he's hurting us right now, and he's going to keep hurting us until he's physically right. I'm sure he wants to tough it out and keep playing, but it's not working. Obviously I don't have any info on his physical status, but it seems hard to believe he's not hurt. If he's hurt, they've got to shut him down.

If it's only mental, as you posit, then I guess we just have to live with it while he works through his issues. But that seems unlikely to me at this point.

[mohr5150]

I know this team only has three losses, but they are very close to having a major collapse if things don't turn around on Saturday. They have not looked like a good team for almost a month now, squeaking out wins vs bad to average teams and getting their asses handed to them by a decent and very good team. There are some serious holes on this team that I'm not sure can be fixed.

[Blue Blooded-05]

5 games at Villanova since joining the Big East:
81-58
88-75
95-64
79-54
89-65

That’s losses by 23, 13, 31, 25, 24.

In case you forget, the game we lost by 13 wasn’t competitive. We were losing by 18 at halftime.

[novachap]

Did not see that coming. Clearly nova has been working on their D since the Butler loss. TB must be hurt. Bridges plays great D, but not that great. Honestly was not surprised with how they shut down Macura, booth is pur best perimeter defender.

Naji is a freakin stud, not looking forward to watching that kid develop. Kanter schooled spellman down low.

We have 5 guys averaging double figures, tough to pick your poison when they spread teams out. They are averaging 90+.

As always, expect a much closer game at cintas.. good luck gang.

[kellernr]

Will we ever get a center that has more than a 5 inch vertical? Stainbrook, frease, omara and Kanter jump like they have a fridge on thier back. Jones has some hops but he's only good for 10-15 minutes a game because of his knees.

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[xuinmd]

scruggs has a decent pass completion rate for a quarterback

[xukeith]

Last 3 games:

1 point

1 point

3 points

That's are starting small/power forward.

[X Factor]

Did not see that coming.

The entire X fan base saw it coming, not sure how you couldn't have. Must be nice to know you get a cakewalk win every year over a team that will help your RPI and look good to the committee.

[xukeith]

scruggs has a decent pass completion rate for a quarterback

Can't wait for his junior year.

[Backyard Champ]

He's one dimensional and teams are figuring out how to defend Xavier. Another 1-2 night from Gates for 3 points.

But everyone is saying Kanter shouldn't play more because of his defense.


Yes, but for a while he was our best defender. If I had to guess, he didn't play tonight as much because Tre at the 4 was.. supposed to be a mismatch that maybe would spark the team.

Otherwise, him on the perimiter should make it easier on our guards to get to the line, and our bigs when they have it in the post.

[xukeith]

I could see reason in a game or two if there's something physical and it's not just mental. It wouldn't surprise me, though, if there WAS something physical (e.g. when he re-aggravated his shoulder), but now he's just struggling with mentally getting over it. If so, he needs to play in order to work through it.

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He is wearing that black orthopedic/chiropractic tape on that shoulder. Same as Sumner last year.

[XUFan09]

He is wearing that black orthopedic/chiropractic tape on that shoulder. Same as Sumner last year.Solid chance that is more placebo effect than anything else.

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[xukeith]

5 games at Villanova since joining the Big East:
81-58
88-75
95-64
79-54
89-65

That’s losses by 23, 13, 31, 25, 24.

In case you forget, the game we lost by 13 wasn’t competitive. We were losing by 18 at halftime.

How good was that team that only lost by 13 there?

[bleedXblue]

Im glad that Coach Mack and staff can provide entertainment for the Nova fans every year.

Really its on him and his staff. Bullshit I say.

I expected a loss, but not ANOTHER ass kicking.

[X Factor]

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/2018/01/10/live-updates-no-10-xavier-visits-no-1-villanova/1023065001/


• No, Trevon Bluiett isn't battling a major injury, according to Xavier head coach Chris Mack. Nor is anyone else on Xavier. What might be missing right now, according to Mack, is confidence and swagger.

[scoscox]

Watching d west against the clippers is therapeutic. This game makes me miss tu Holloway.

[X Factor]

Guarantee Tu and Cheeks wouldn't get their asses handed to them 5 years in a row by Nova.

[stammina0721]

The time I suggested was insane? It's 3 weeks. I dont know your expertise, but shoulder issues dont disappear after a game or 2. I just want him healthy for March. Playing him now isnt working the sample size is almost half a season of bad play now. Xaviers' story of 2018 wont be written by a result on Jan 10th. This team will be remembered by what it does in March. In college hoops that has always been the reality... March is all that matters. Whatever time is needed to get him healthy for March should be taken now.

[X Factor]

Mack just said he wasn't injured. How much more do you need? He's playing poorly. He needs to figure it out fast.

[AviatorX]

Guarantee Tu and Cheeks wouldn't get their asses handed to them 5 years in a row by Nova.

You happen to catch their last year together in the A10??

[drudy23]

They're just better...if you can't guard them man up with some intensity and courage, forget about it, we'll never beat them in their place.

[xu82]

Catch lightning in a bottle in March. That’s what we do.




You know.....sometimes.

[SemajParlor]

You'd think people would learn that a season is a lifetime by now. Nope? Ok.

[xu82]

You'd think people would learn that a season is a lifetime by now. Nope? Ok.

Anything but an undefeated season is a disaster! Haven’t you learned?



Give it time. Let the freshman play and learn. Be ready and super deep when it counts.

[SemajParlor]

I hope this place doesn’t become Doomsday in here because of a few tough but relatively meaningless stretch. It’s life in the Big East road. We’re not playing Charlotte or Fordham anymore. As for TB - I’m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt to work it out. I’m also willing to give Mack the benefit of doubt to do what’s best for the team. It’s all about where you are in March, we all know that. With this group of talent and experience the sky is still the limit. I feel confident with Mack + Bluiett + Macura as my core going forward. They have a tendency to come through.

[xu82]

Stealing a few road wins in the BE is huge. I had no expectations of being undefeated. Was the showing tonight disappointing? Sure. Ups and downs happen during the season. EVERY season.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

We aren’t big east champs, sucks to know but now we do. Time to man up, improve, and be ready for a deep run in March.


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[OTRMUSKIE]

We act like this is the old Big East or old ACC. I’m sorry but when ur the top 5 or top 10 in the country I actually expect to beat ETSU, DePaul and Marshall by a lot and I expect you to show up for Providence and At least act like u know a little bit about basketball when u play Nova and the suit. Let’s please not use the excuse this isn’t the A-10. When X was in the A-10 they wouldn’t have lost to Nova 5 years in a row by an avg of 20 points. At some point you have to blame coaching.

[Xuperman]

Ah yes, the inevitable bandwagon jumpers and flip floppers are rampant.

[Xville]

Ah yes, the inevitable bandwagon jumpers and flip floppers are rampant.

What do you expect and is everything rosy in your eyes right now? Losing to a very mediocre providence team with minimal effort sucks. Getting blown out yet again at nova sucks. I don't know about you, but I'm pretty sick of watching Xavier looking completely unprepared and getting their teeth kicked in every year up there.

The lack of intensity and effort, especially on the defensive side of the ball is frustrating.

[bleedXblue]

Ah yes, the inevitable bandwagon jumpers and flip floppers are rampant.

Yeah, what the hell do you expect when you get thumped by 25 points? Seriously. EVERY fan base would react the SAME EXACT WAY. Give it a rest.

For the record, very few are off jumping off. Many very concerned about the performance. Its not losing...which I think was expected. Its the same THRASHING now 4 years in a row.

[Xuperman]

No doubt......just saying that people start threads here like "JP favorite player all time", others comment in agreement, then turn on him.

[American X]

At least they did not try to murder our point guard.

They just murdered our defense.


They murdered our offense too.

[mistabeecee41]

Our offense has been abysmal for the last two games. When our starters shoot 29/77 over a 2 game stretch, our defense is going to suffer because of it. Give me a break with the "starting Kanter will hurt our defense' bullshit.

Start Kanter. Don't care if he comes in for Gates or Ty. We need somebody who can put the ball in the basket from the start and maybe draw defenders away from Tre and JP.