Xavier @ Butler Game Thread (February 6, 2018)

[American X]

http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=/i/teamlogos/ncaa/500/2752.png&h=150&w=150https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSbecteTW9qF3ty_75DjR6KoEXWpfOgq gq8cPneGnQmtBQgLgD7

#5 Xavier Musketeers (21-3, 9-2) vs. Butler Generic Mascots (17-7, 7-4)

Time: 6:30 p.m. ET

Hinkle Fieldhouse | Indianapolis, Indiana

TV: FS1

Radio: 55 KRC Listen Live (https://www.iheart.com/live/55krc-1709/?autoplay=true&pname=15400&campid=header&cid=index.html)

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

Live Stats (http://stats.statbroadcast.com/broadcast/?id=188989)



*check back for more links and articles

[fellahmuskie]

I'm going with my wife and brother. Section 307, row 2. We were there 2 years ago for the JP Thunderdunk.

[X-band '01]

There's still quite a few tickets remaining for this one. I guess they think we're no longer a rival given that they've moved on to Villanova.

Or is it the $50 tickets that's turning off their fans?

[skyking]

Vegas has Butler by 3.

[JTG]

Vegas has Butler by 3.

If we get off to a slow start at Hinkle it could be Butler by 23.

[waggy]

This is like a 1 seed vs an 8 seed. Except it's on the 8 seeds home floor.

Great poll BTW.

[Coogles]

This is like a 1 seed vs an 8 seed. Except it's on the 8 seeds home floor.

Great poll BTW.

2240

[X-band '01]

To Coogles' point, if you were to go by KenPom we'd be looking at a 4/5 matchup here.

Xavier (#16 overall, #8 offense, #69 defense, #51 tempo)
Butler (#18 overall, #28 offense, #33 defense, #192 tempo)

[GoMuskies]

For better or worse, the Selection Committee doesn't seed by KenPom. Which, of course, is why it is not unusual for lower seeded teams to be favored over higher seeded teams.

[SkyWalker]

We need some Macura Magic. It's been a few game since we've seen it.

[GIMMFD]

We need some Macura Magic. It's been a few game since we've seen it.

I think he'll have a big game, I feel like Butler is going to poke the bear like idiots, which transcends JP's game to higher levels. If Tre continues how he played against Georgetown (which not sure of, since he hasn't been so hot on the road this year), we'll be fine. I think we come out of this one with a win as well.

[GoMuskies]

I feel like Butler is going to poke the bear like idiots

If you're a "smart" student section, how DO you treat Macura? Silent treatment? Every time he gets the ball the section goes completely silent? Clap politely when he is introduced and smile at him all game? What?

[GIMMFD]

If you're a "smart" student section, how DO you treat Macura? Silent treatment? Every time he gets the ball the section goes completely silent? Clap politely when he is introduced and smile at him all game? What?

You still make noise, still bring passion and energy, but doing things like calling JP an asshole, or booing him every time he touches the ball or does something is idiotic to me. You can simply chant defense and still have a crowd presence. Pretend he's another guy, and not our asshole.

[XUFan09]

If you're a "smart" student section, how DO you treat Macura? Silent treatment? Every time he gets the ball the section goes completely silent? Clap politely when he is introduced and smile at him all game? What?I think the silent treatment when he gets the ball combined with polite clapping when he's introduced would be perfect. That mocking would be so off-putting to a player that feeds off hate.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[BMoreX]

I think the silent treatment when he gets the ball combined with polite clapping when he's introduced would be perfect. That mocking would be so off-putting to a player that feeds off hate.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

100% agree here.

[X-band '01]

They're also going to have a warm and fuzzy reception for Bluiett after his trip through Carmel last spring.

[bleedXblue]

I f'ing hate Butler with every fiber of my being. Seriously, screw them.

[XU 87]

I f'ing hate Butler with every fiber of my being. Seriously, screw them.

How do you feel about Butler? And please, don't hold back when you let us know. Don't sugarcoat anything.

[JTG]

Bluiett's last go around in his hometown, and Scruggs is from Indy also. Hope they plan to impress the hometown fans.

[XU 87]

There's still quite a few tickets remaining for this one. I guess they think we're no longer a rival given that they've moved on to Villanova.

Or is it the $50 tickets that's turning off their fans?

I think there are less than 50 tickets left.

I just bought two. I'll be there with highly regarded poster, XU 23.

[Xavier]

Will be really tough to get this one. Would go a long way, though.

[SC in DC]

If Nova can get them at Hinkle then we....oops wait--never mind!

[GIMMFD]

If Nova can get them at Hinkle then we....oops wait--never mind!

We've performed pretty decently at Hinkle, I could see us grabbing this one to be honest. I 100% believe we are going to come out of this one with a win. I have a feeling the boys will be up to the challenge.

[paulxu]

Assuming they have finally gone to the Precision Time System so we don't have to bust any water fountains.

[X-ceptional]

Thus summarizes my feelings just fine... the OG #GratuitousDunk:

https://i.imgur.com/MtvLfKX.gif

[GenerationX]

I f'ing hate Butler with every fiber of my being. Seriously, screw them.

This! Butler is the new Dayton. However, I don’t think any fan base can top ud as far as douchiness. Plus butler is too classy to be douchey.

[mid major]

I don't hold the disdain for them like I do Dayton. I am worried about the demons of their most infamous alumnus...The Reverend Jim Jones.

[kellernr]

I think X will pull this one out. Kanter goes off for 20 tonight and we drop 100.

Tre - 22
JP - 18
Kanter - 20
Gates - 10
Goodin - 8
Omara - 5
Marshall - 6
Scruggs - 5
Jones - 6

[xu koop scoop]

Having gone to many games at Hinkle when Butler was in the MCC with us, in the A10 with us & other times - I was always treated well by their fans & at local establishments. I toured the historic gym before games there. They weren't much of a known power before their 2 National Championship games. They add to the leagues image. They are the only BE school that can hold Nova in check. 6 yrs ago I stopped attending games as I now winter in Florida. Maybe the fan landscape has changed, but I only remember one hostile time ever - & that was at UD. My WIFE got into shoving match with a DRUNK UD MAN DURING A TEMPLE VS UD GAME. We were watching & waiting for our game. The DRUNK sat in front of us & badmouthed David West relentlessly. He kept turning around looking at me. I just smiled. My wife finally defended D. West. He "bumped" my wife in his stupor, then spilled popcorn on her & eventually she got to own his beer too. UD lost that game to Temple & my wife said to him on his way out of UD Arena. "Aren't you gonna stay & watch the magnificent D. West."

[xu koop scoop]

I think X will pull this one out. Kanter goes off for 20 tonight and we drop 100.

Tre - 22
JP - 18
Kanter - 20
Gates - 10
Goodin - 8
Omara - 5
Marshall - 6
Scruggs - 5
Jones - 6

I like your make believe world

[BMoreX]

It might be the matchups which always seem to favor X, it might be JP's demeanor or Tre playing in his hometown, but I'm always confident heading in to a game in Hinkle Barn.

[X-band '01]

Koop is right - getting 80 would be a whale of an accomplishment against Butler's defense, much less a hundy.

Even last year, Xavier played one decent half of ball at Hinkle. The problem then was Butler getting off to a fast start in the 2nd half.

As for this year, Kelan Martin and Kamar Baldwin had big games for Butler. Xavier shut down everyone else and was ultimately able to decide the game at the line.

[American X]

GoXavier Preview (http://goxavier.com/news/2018/2/5/mens-basketball-no-5-xavier-opens-two-game-road-swing-at-butler-on-tuesday-night.aspx)

Full Game Notes (https://s3.amazonaws.com/sidearm.sites/goxavier.com/documents/2018/2/5/Xavier_Game_Notes_game_25_at_Butler.pdf)

Butler Preview (http://butlersports.com/news/2018/2/5/mens-basketball-top-5-week-for-butlermbb-begins-with-5-xavier-tuesday-at-hinkle.aspx)

Enquirer Preview (https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/2018/02/05/no-5-xavier-basketball-travels-butler-seeking-22nd-win/308364002/)

Fox Sports Preview (https://www.foxsports.com/college-basketball/boxscore?id=96679&type=5)

Indianapolis Star Preview (https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/butler/2018/02/05/butlers-big-week-starts-hosting-xavier/304833002/)

Banners on the Parkway (https://www.bannersontheparkway.com/2018/2/6/16978232/xavier-v-butler-preview-matchups-keys-to-the-game-basketball-preview-macura-bluiett-big-east)

[kellernr]

I like your make believe worldA guy can dream

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[X Factor]

Butler fans are delusional. Go to their board and read the game thread if you want proof.

[X-ceptional]

Butler fans are delusional. Go to their board and read the game thread if you want proof.

One guy (when he was clarifying a previous post, mind you) actually said he could name 15 teams that will beat X 8 out of 10 times. I'd love to hear his list. But don't worry because he "for sure" thinks we deserve the top 5 reading for now.

How is it possible to even know what a basketball is and think that?

[nuts4xu]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DVXOd7wX0AEYujR.jpg:large

[nuts4xu]

The Xavier Way > The Butler Way

[sweet6teen]

Having gone to many games at Hinkle when Butler was in the MCC with us, in the A10 with us & other times - I was always treated well by their fans & at local establishments. I toured the historic gym before games there. They weren't much of a known power before their 2 National Championship games. They add to the leagues image. They are the only BE school that can hold Nova in check. 6 yrs ago I stopped attending games as I now winter in Florida. Maybe the fan landscape has changed, but I only remember one hostile time ever - & that was at UD. My WIFE got into shoving match with a DRUNK UD MAN DURING A TEMPLE VS UD GAME. We were watching & waiting for our game. The DRUNK sat in front of us & badmouthed David West relentlessly. He kept turning around looking at me. I just smiled. My wife finally defended D. West. He "bumped" my wife in his stupor, then spilled popcorn on her & eventually she got to own his beer too. UD lost that game to Temple & my wife said to him on his way out of UD Arena. "Aren't you gonna stay & watch the magnificent D. West."

WTF? You sat there and smiled while your wife got into a shoving match with a drunk MAN?

[paulxu]

Hah! There's a little BUS symbol instead of a PLANE for our road game to Indy.

Also, JP and Tre are 1 pt away from second place.

[X-band '01]

Hah! There's a little BUS symbol instead of a PLANE for our road game to Indy.

Also, JP and Tre are 1 pt away from second place.

They already bussed in last night.

[xu koop scoop]

WTF? You sat there and smiled while your wife got into a shoving match with a drunk MAN?

You misquoted my statement. I sat & smiled while DRUNK was taunting me/us. Smiling is always my response to agitators at games. Heckler bothered her, not me. Once the fracas started, I simply stayed out of it - per my wife's request. My wife is 6'0" & could hit a softball a mile & was almost an Olympic swimmer. He picked the wrong XU girl to pick on.

[xu koop scoop]

Keep in mind that our season might only be 60% done prior to tonight game. 24 in the book so far. 7 more Conference games. 3 BE Tourney games.
6 NCAA Tourney games = 16 more games. I'd settle for 15 more. Still thinking of a BE Regular Season Title. One game at a time. Hopefully we have a thousand or two in attendance. Our players will feel our fans presence.
'

[XMuskieFTW]

Keep in mind that our season might only be 60% done prior to tonight game. 24 in the book so far. 7 more Conference games. 3 BE Tourney games.
6 NCAA Tourney games = 16 more games. I'd settle for 15 more. Still thinking of a BE Regular Season Title. One game at a time. Hopefully we have a thousand or two in attendance. Our players will feel our fans presence.
'

We aren't taking over 15% of their arena on a Tuesday at 6:30. I'm guessing there's about 300-400 Xavier fans.

[Muskie]

We aren't taking over 15% of their arena on a Tuesday at 6:30. I'm guessing there's about 300-400 Xavier fans.

I managed to get tickets through X this year. That tells me that the normal amount of Cincinnati people aren't making the trip over.

[94GRAD]

I managed to get tickets through X this year. That tells me that the normal amount of Cincinnati people aren't making the trip over.

Not having neither X v. Butler game on a Saturday this season is a traveshamockery!!!

[paulxu]

I was almost a Xavier basketball player.

Just saying.

[powerofX]

Interesting that line opened butler -3 and now it’s -3.5. Interested to see what it looks like at tip.

[Lloyd Braun]

Interesting that line opened butler -3 and now it’s -3.5. Interested to see what it looks like at tip.

1/2 pt is pretty small. It means they guessed about right and don’t want any more pushes in their bets and maybe anticipate some sharp money on butler.

[Lloyd Braun]

These are the games in which JP thrives. Tre has a tendency to force things a bit if he doesn’t get his points early. We matchup well against Butler and much like Nova they should bring their A game hosting a top 5 team and conference rival...

[OTRMUSKIE]

So what is wrong with Tyrique? I heard he is out?

[Lloyd Braun]

So what is wrong with Tyrique? I heard he is out?

I don’t know details but I heard a shoulder injury.

[GIMMFD]

I don’t know details but I heard a shoulder injury.

Ugh that's annoying and unfortunate, hopefully Kanter and O'Mara can fill in with big games together. Always a bummer not to have Tyrique's athleticism though.

[Lloyd Braun]

Ugh that's annoying and unfortunate, hopefully Kanter and O'Mara can fill in with big games together. Always a bummer not to have Tyrique's athleticism though.

For sure he will be missed tonight, but they need him more against Seton Hall/Delgado. Fingers crossed.

[RoseyMuskie]

Good opening war win.

[GoMuskies]

This is a dogfight out there (no pun intended). I expect this one to be fun to watch all the way through.

[Grizzx12]

Well apparently Foxsportsgo will not work abroad and I'm stuck with gamecast again. Is our defense that good tonight?

[RoseyMuskie]

Well apparently Foxsportsgo will not work abroad and I'm stuck with gamecast again. Is our defense that good tonight?

Intensity level seems to be higher, from Mack, down.

Butler really struggling with X’s size. No answer for the front court.

[GoMuskies]

I've got a semi.

[kellernr]

I normally root for jp but he needs to sit for awhile.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[HenryMuto]

Amazing start 29-11 lead but that 18 point lead is now cut in half.

[mistabeecee41]

I normally root for jp but he needs to sit for awhile.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

Agreed. Ball movement was impeccable on that run and JP immeditaely started playing 1 on 1 hero ball

[kellernr]

Agreed. Ball movement was impeccable on that run and JP immeditaely started playing 1 on 1 hero ballYa. He needs to realize he's not a pg. We Q, Marshall and Scruggs that should run point before him.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[GIMMFD]

Ugh that's annoying and unfortunate, hopefully Kanter and O'Mara can fill in with big games together. Always a bummer not to have Tyrique's athleticism though.

This aged well for the first half.

[paulxu]

I've been very impressed with our defense this half. Hope we can keep it up.

Would love to just step on them.

[kellernr]

Kept the lead at 10 going into half with jp and Tre sitting the last 5 or so minutes. Hopefully those 2 come out hot to start the 2nd half

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[GoMuskies]

10 point lead with not very much from Trevon and JP? Nice.

[RoseyMuskie]

Successful half. Butler didn’t have too many clean looks. A lot of contested makes.

[HenryMuto]

67% from the field, 62% from 3, 75% from the line feels like we should be up by more than 10.

[scoscox]

We wasted a lot of good looks at the end of the half. We should be up more

[HenryMuto]

First 4 minutes of 2nd half are huge...need to increase the lead not let them back in the game.

[paulxu]

Tre just off so far tonight.

[GoMuskies]

Tre just off so far tonight.

JP is a traffic cone on defense tonight, too. Hard to believe we can be up 5 with those two things.

[stammina0721]

No biggie just outscored 26 to 11 in the last 9 game minutes. Jesus!!!

[HenryMuto]

Not going as planned I said extend the lead and not let them back in it!

[stammina0721]

I guess they just don't like prosperity

[RoseyMuskie]

Another Bluiett/Macura dud so far.

[HenryMuto]

Fawk

[stammina0721]

This defense is so bad. I literally dont expect a team to ever miss. Just going to have to outscore them tonight to get the win

[Lloyd Braun]

Seems to be a game of runs.... make the last run and win the game. I can’t figure out if they’re letting them play or calling it tightly. That’s not usually a good thing for the road team.

[stammina0721]

Another Bluiett/Macura dud so far.

I've said it once ill say it again. Blueitt never scored well when he needs to score off the dribble. He is a set shooter. If we don't start setting screens for him and let him catch and shoot he is going to have a long half

[Lloyd Braun]

Kanter and OMara have been great... Kaiser seems a bit out of sorts. And I am #1 Kaiser fan.

[Lloyd Braun]

I've said it once ill say it again. Blueitt never scored well when he needs to score off the dribble. He is a set shooter. If we don't start setting screens for him and let him catch and shoot he is going to have a long half

Complaining about Trevons limitations as scorer is somewhat laughable.

[HenryMuto]

Damn it

[paulxu]

Our D has disappeared.

Come on Muskies. We can get this one.

[stammina0721]

Seriously when was the last stop we Got? When did Butler shoot, they miss we get the board?

[kellernr]

I guess Tre decided not to show up tonight and JP should have stayed back on campus

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[stammina0721]

Complaining about Trevons limitations as scorer is somewhat laughable.

Dude just stop. He can score. But he isn't a slasher. You gotta do what you do best. CJ Anderson scored like 12 points a game never making a shot outside of the lane. Butler is playing within themselves thats why they are beating X by 21 pts in the last 17 game minutes. X is not

[kellernr]

Jp used to be huge in the 1 3 1 zone and was average in man D but this year he looks like he forgot what defense was.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[stammina0721]

When was Butlers last miss? NBA teams dont hit like this

[kellernr]

When was Butlers last miss? NBA teams dont hit like thisIt's hard to miss when there's no defender within 10ft you.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[Lloyd Braun]

Dude just stop. He can score. But he isn't a slasher. You gotta do what you do best. CJ Anderson scored like 12 points a game never making a shot outside of the lane. Butler is playing within themselves thats why they are beating X by 21 pts in the last 17 game minutes. X is not

I’m glad he has you to tell him his offensive limitations.

[stammina0721]

Unreal. We can't win if they don't miss once

[stammina0721]

I’m glad he has you to tell him his offensive limitations.

I dont have to be the one NBA scouts have said it for 3 years. It's not a knock I just want him to play within his strengths. J J Reddick has made a nice career of being a set shooter

[Lloyd Braun]

I dont have to be the one NBA scouts have said it for 3 years. It's not a knock I just want him to play within his strengths. J J Reddick has made a nice career of being a set shooter

Bad comparison....

And when did we start playing the NBA game. Cmon man

[Lloyd Braun]

Martin with a gift call. Absolutely horrible call on OMara.

[mistabeecee41]

JP has burned us going for a steal at least 3 times this half.

play Scruggs instead

[RoseyMuskie]

Bluiett heating up, and so is the ref show.

[HenryMuto]

Would be a tough game to lose once up 18 but this sure is a hell of a game either way.

[Lloyd Braun]

Martin has been so good. I hate he's on Butler.

Naji is scary good. Such a complete player.

[HenryMuto]

Good lord does Martin ever miss .............

[HenryMuto]

OMG Marshall WTF that kills had ball up 7 with less than 2 minutes left and do a stupid foul and give them the ball back.

[Grizzx12]

What'd he do?

[RoseyMuskie]

Nothing Marshall did. It was a rat Butler move that the refs fell for.

By the way, Marshall’s D is on point.

[HenryMuto]

Great d !!!!!!!!!!!!

[stammina0721]

See Lloyd when he plays within his strong skill set he can be great. It's when Blueitt steps outside of that skill set that he looks bad. One dribble and drain O.

[HenryMuto]

Maybe I am biased but how is that a foul ? all ball

[RoseyMuskie]

Um. Player control?

[Lloyd Braun]

See Lloyd when he plays within his strong skill set he can be great. It's when Blueitt steps outside of that skill set that he looks bad. One dribble and drain O.

Lol. HE CREATED HIS OWN SHOT. Dude has scored well over 2000 points now. I’m pretty sure he knows what he’s doing.

[RoseyMuskie]

Um. Player control?

Jump ball?

[HenryMuto]

WTF why do you leave him wide open for a 3 you can only lose if they hit 3s

[HenryMuto]

Man so frustrating just don't allow open 3s and that is what we do

[HenryMuto]

OMFG wtf are you doing

[HenryMuto]

Just brutal was up 7 and now only up 1

[HenryMuto]

Losing this when your up 7 with like 1 minute left would be so brutal.

Now we have to score or they have a shot to win it.

[mistabeecee41]

our seniors man.

the 2nd one was a tough shot, but what the fuck was Tre doing on the 1st three?

[HenryMuto]

our seniors man.

the 2nd one was a tough shot, but what the fuck was Tre doing on the 1st three?

I can't believe that went in

[Xville]

X's defense or the lack thereof tempers my expectations quite a bit for a run in March. Can't play defense the way this team has this year and make it further than any X team ever has.

[HenryMuto]

Going to lose in OT now unreal

[HenryMuto]

They made 3 straight 3s to end it your up 3 do NOT ALLOW A 3 and they did

[mistabeecee41]

Xavier's world famous packline defense. help too much and let the other teams hit wide open threes!

[HenryMuto]

You are up 3 and you leave Baldwin wide open I don't understand

[RoseyMuskie]

Bang the low post hard.

[GoMuskies]

Holy choke job!

[HenryMuto]

7 point lead with like 1 minute left allow a 3, then turn it over then allow a 3 then score then allow a 3 then take a 20 footer tied.......that's how you get to OT.

[HenryMuto]

I am shell shocked I can't imagine how the players feel. If they can win this in OT I would be shocked.

[HenryMuto]

OH MY GOD BLUITTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT from DEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP

[HenryMuto]

Just no more turnovers and hit your FT's and this one is over

[Lloyd Braun]

Omg Tre

[RoseyMuskie]

Trevon!

[HenryMuto]

Ok now way in hell we lose now up 5 with 2 FT's and 16 seconds left after he blew both FT's for Butler

[HenryMuto]

Up 6 with 16 seconds left do not allow an open 3 if they want a layup fine.

No 3s

[stammina0721]

Point proven... set Blueitt up as a set shooter and he will make it happen

[HenryMuto]

Now that he used his last timeout we can't allow an open 3

[paulxu]

I think I hear "let's go X"

[HenryMuto]

Guys ? Seriously he allowed an open 3 ? Why are you backing up let them blow by you for the layup........thank god he missed.

HUGE WIN HUGE WIN.

Now win at Creighton and we can't be denied a #1 seed on Sunday.

[Xville]

great road win....defense was pretty awful but a road win is a road win.

[HenryMuto]

Great win !!!!!!!!!!

Now I have to sweat out Kentucky.

[paulxu]

Trevon Bluiett is THE man.

[GoMuskies]

Jesus, the testicular fortitude of this team to win this game. Amazing.

[Mel Cooley XU'81]

Classy, classy, classy win over those bums.

[X Factor]

Yes!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Grizzx12]

Just going to point out that since I had no live feed down here in the Caribbean and was relegated to gamecast, my heart rate is smooth at Cruzan 5 year aged rum. Hope you folks are doing ok! Buck Futler!!!!!

Looking forward to the full replay when I'm home

[RoseyMuskie]

I’ll enjoy my bourbon and evening Butler Hoops reading tonight.

[xavierj]

great road win....defense was pretty awful but a road win is a road win.

At times though Xavier was all over them with high hands and they still drilled shots. Credit to Butler for making big shots and not quiting when down 18. Huge win for Xavier. Butler is a different animal at Hinkle, ask Nova.

[GoMuskies]

Is Trevon the star of the game? Or Naji? Or O'Mara? Or Kanter?

Nice to have so many choices!

[xavierj]

Point proven... set Blueitt up as a set shooter and he will make it happen

I nominate you to take over as coach. They would never lose.

[xukeith]

Win and move on. Tyrique if healthy would have dominated against Butler lack of frontline

[X-ceptional]

All class.

https://i.imgur.com/q0TNrUZ.gif

[GIMMFD]

Watched the last 8 minutes, and overtime, and a couple things:

A. No Paul Scruggs turnovers, he's really growing into his role and looks far more comfortable these days.

B. Even though Kanter really struggled at the end, he was HUGE for us throughout the game, and I will gloss over the couple airballs and missed shots, because he did his part and played amazing.

C. I really hope JP finds form soon, I'm not terribly sure what's been up with him as of late, but it'll come together.

D. Incredible resilency after blowing that lead in the last minute of regulation, could have folded up and let Butler take that momentum and run with it in OT, instead they put together a great OT period, played their best stretch defensively and got it done.

E. Trevon "Tre Bae Bae" Blueitt is a legend, and I'm so ready for Beast Mode 2 throughout February and March, incredibly blessed to have him, and can't wait to see 5 hanging in the rafters of Cintas.

F. Fuck Butler.

[letskeepitreal]

Wow, what a game although we really didn’t have to make it that hard. Aside from Trevon, kudos to Kanter, Sean and Naji. Those guys played really well.

[BMoreX]

Trevon Fucking Blueitt.

[Lloyd Braun]

This team is special. Unless of course you read the posts during the game. Then they suck.

[X Factor]

Is Trevon the star of the game? Or Naji? Or O'Mara? Or Kanter?

Nice to have so many choices!

Tre, but Naji as a freshman is starting to come into his own. He's so talented.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

X won with Tre and unbelievable FT shooting. I am nervous but relieved. Every game is going to be close.

[xukeith]

great road win....defense was pretty awful but a road win is a road win.

X has a weak defense. But X needs 1more road win at Creighton. Hoping for a 30 point win.

[stammina0721]

I nominate you to take over as coach. They would never lose.
Only if Mack goes to the 'Ville. He is still better than me

[Jesuit4Life]

Cold-blooded.
https://twitter.com/XavierGameday/status/961053583620755456

Sent from my Nexus 5 using Tapatalk

[X Factor]

Lots of "classy" posts over on the Butler board. Most of them include "F*** Xavier!"

[BMoreX]

https://twitter.com/xaviermbb/status/961057020232204289



Bahahahahahahahahaha

[stammina0721]

Tre, but Naji as a freshman is starting to come into his own. He's so talented.

Absolutely not. Tre was given the opportunity to win it off of the back of Kanters play all game. If Kanter doesnt show we lose by 15. Kanter for player of the game in a landslide

[XUOWNSUC]

BREAKING NEWS: Josh McDaniels turned down the Colts head coach job.



Nice win Muskies!

[stammina0721]

In all seriousness....how did Kanter go to a Podunk school his first couple years?

[JAPER]

2 incredible college basketball games in a span of 4 days. Good stuff in the Big East. No doubt.

[stammina0721]

The surest bet in Vegas right now seems to be the over in any Xavier game

[paulxu]

Maybe we should send Snipe to all the away games.

[JAPER]

https://twitter.com/xaviermbb/status/961057020232204289



Bahahahahahahahahaha

I'm thirsty all of a sudden.

[Strange Brew]

https://twitter.com/xaviermbb/status/961057020232204289



Bahahahahahahahahaha

That tweet won the internet today.

[xu koop scoop]

Sweet! Sittin on the porch in Naples savoring the OT victory. A little Moonshine, Red Auerbach victory Cigar & 70 Degrees. Sweet!

[xavierj]

Man looking at stats Butler played just about perfect and lost at home to the one team they hate to lose to. 52% from floor, 45% from 3 and only 9 turnovers. Xavier played even better on offense and Butler is supposed to be a good defensive team. Great offense will beat great defense.

[Grizzx12]

Sweet! Sittin on the porch in Naples savoring the OT victory. A little Moonshine, Red Auerbach victory Cigar & 70 Degrees. Sweet!

77 here in Carolina, Puerto Rico and the hotel has open bar and for some reason free nachos. Not sure how much cheese is in this machine but tonight I ride with victory cheese and I'll figure out one way or another what sort of capacity its got!!

[stammina0721]

Are you guys watching gtown and prov? This is the best conference by far

[X-ceptional]

Absolutely not. Tre was given the opportunity to win it off of the back of Kanters play all game. If Kanter doesnt show we lose by 15. Kanter for player of the game in a landslide

I mean, this is a weird thing to argue about, but "absolutely" not? Kanter had an awesome game, and could definitely be worthy of game MVP. But Tre did have more points, more rebounds, more assists, and hit the clutch shots to close out the game. Tre went 26 and 5 on 7-15/6-9/6-7... I wouldn't say it's a landslide.

That being said, Kanter and O'Mara working inside tonight was a thing of beauty. Fouled out both of their big stiffs, and really showed a lot of skill. Was great to see it, especially since Jones was sidelined today (and hopefully not too much longer...).

[X-ceptional]

Are you guys watching gtown and prov? This is the best conference by far

Agreed.

[stammina0721]

Please dont take what I said as a slight to Tre if that is what you think. He definitely won the game with his shot and Big steal that got Fowler out. But my only point is he did go like 20 minutes with no FG at one point. Kanter gave him the chance to be big that is why I credit Kanter more. At one point I think we was 8-8 with a three. He couldn't have stepped up more when it was sorely needed

[GIMMFD]

Please dont take what I said as a slight to Tre if that is what you think. He definitely won the game with his shot and Big steal that got Fowler out. But my only point is he did go like 20 minutes with no FG at one point. Kanter gave him the chance to be big that is why I credit Kanter more. At one point I think we was 8-8 with a three. He couldn't have stepped up more when it was sorely needed

Well to be fair that's been Tre throughout his career, how many times last season did he have 4, 6, etc. in the first half, to come through in the second half with a big 14-16, etc. The thing about Tre is, when the game is on the line, and you need someone to take over, he's the perfect candidate, he lives for the moment. He reminds me so much of Tu Holloway in that aspect, some guys have it, some guys don't.

[stammina0721]

Well to be fair that's been Tre throughout his career, how many times last season did he have 4, 6, etc. in the first half, to come through in the second half with a big 14-16, etc. The thing about Tre is, when the game is on the line, and you need someone to take over, he's the perfect candidate, he lives for the moment. He reminds me so much of Tu Holloway in that aspect, some guys have it, some guys don't.

Yeah I really can't argue that. I wonder if he would have passed Byron if he could put two halves together consistently

[MuskieXU]

In all seriousness....how did Kanter go to a Podunk school his first couple years?

The bigger question is how did he play 19 minutes a game last year, and 10 and 4 minutes as a sophomore and freshman respectively.

[whopper]

just watched the DVR version as was out but monitoring. The key play was the poor stiff who came in for 10 sec to replace fowler and O'mara tipped the rebound back. Nice to have a win to start this stretch.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Thank God!

Butler played great but if we would have lost that would have been 100% because dumb things by us. We need to get a whole lot better defensively if that is even possible. The mental errors are definitely correctable on D.

Trevon is UNREAL! Retire that jersey yesterday.

[94GRAD]

just watched the DVR version as was out but monitoring. The key play was the poor stiff who came in for 10 sec to replace fowler and O'mara tipped the rebound back. Nice to have a win to start this stretch.

Brunk chose Butler over X

[Smails]

https://twitter.com/xaviermbb/status/961057020232204289



That is some cold blooded shit right there...

On another note, head on over to Butlerhoops.com.....do it. They hate us...they really hate us

[Muskie]

Brunk chose Butler over X

Brunk has been off most of the season because his Dad is sick. When he gets back in shape he will be a big contributor.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[Cheesehead]

Stamina is very entertaining poster. I don't want to ever watch a game with you. Just saying.

[MauriceX]

I think X will pull this one out. Kanter goes off for 20 tonight and we drop 100.

Tre - 22
JP - 18
Kanter - 20
Gates - 10
Goodin - 8
Omara - 5
Marshall - 6
Scruggs - 5
Jones - 6

Granted, it took overtime, but this actually wasn't a bad prediction. The biggest miss was JP, but Big Sean and Naji made up for it!

Actuals:
Tre - 26 (+4)
JP - 6 (-12)
Kanter - 22 (+2)
Gates - 8 (-2)
Goodin - 5 (-3)
Omara - 14 (+9)
Marshall - 15 (+9)
Scruggs - 2 (-3)
Jones - DNP (-6)

Total: 98 (-2)

[bigdiggins]

That is some cold blooded shit right there...

On another note, head on over to Butlerhoops.com.....do it. They hate us...they really hate us

Going to be in Indy for work next Tuesday, and decided to go to the hoyas vs butler game at Hinkle. Guess I need to wear some X gear.

[bobbiemcgee]

Going to lose in OT now unreal

O ye of little faith....

[JTG]

Brunk has been off most of the season because his Dad is sick. When he gets back in shape he will be a big contributor.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
His Dad died last year. He should have rounded into shape by now and playing some decent minutes.

[Muskie]

His Dad died last year. He should have rounded into shape by now and playing some decent minutes.

Apparently missed that he passed away. People recover from that differently.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[bobbiemcgee]

People don't generally recover from passing away.

[xu82]

People don't generally recover from passing away.

Well, there was that one.....

[xavierj]

Thank God!

Butler played great but if we would have lost that would have been 100% because dumb things by us. We need to get a whole lot better defensively if that is even possible. The mental errors are definitely correctable on D.

Trevon is UNREAL! Retire that jersey yesterday.

Part of the defense issue is the league. 6 of 10 teams are top 40 offensively and 7 are top 70. Big East teams can score the ball. In the non conference Xavier held 9 teams to 70 or less and one team scored more than 77, ASU. In conference Xavier has given up 79 or more 7 times and won 5 of those games.

[bobbiemcgee]

That is some cold blooded shit right there...

Did Bob Mueller or somebody ever determine who busted the WF?

[GIMMFD]

Part of the defense issue is the league. 6 of 10 teams are top 40 offensively and 7 are top 70. Big East teams can score the ball. In the non conference Xavier held 9 teams to 70 or less and one team scored more than 77, ASU. In conference Xavier has given up 79 or more 7 times and won 5 of those games.

Gotta say that's kudos to our offense and the amount of weapons we have, I am not counting this team out at all, but it's always good to improve as much as possible before March. Imagine if we find a way to tighten up defensively because of this gauntlet of a Big East schedule, that makes us a very scary out in the tournament. DREAMING OF POSSIBILITIES.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Part of the defense issue is the league. 6 of 10 teams are top 40 offensively and 7 are top 70. Big East teams can score the ball. In the non conference Xavier held 9 teams to 70 or less and one team scored more than 77, ASU. In conference Xavier has given up 79 or more 7 times and won 5 of those games.

Yes, our league has some great offenses that is true. Some of the mistakes though are just completely boneheaded. Why in the world Q would come off Baldwin (who is behind the 3 point line) to double Martin (who is inside the 3 point line) with 10 seconds to go and Butler down 3 makes ZERO sense. It is just not a smart defensive play.

JP did something similar coming off Martin to run towards a Butler player with 2 three's on the year who then passes back to Martin for a big three.

I think those things can be corrected.

The not being able to keep good guards in front of us and them getting into the lane seemingly at will probably is what it is at this point. We face a lot of really good tough guards in our league though that is for sure.

[XUGRAD80]

To put this win, and the score, into a little perspective......

#4 Michigan St beat a 12-14 Iowa squad 96-93 yesterday, at Iowa.

In conference road games are almost always tough to win.

Good win by X.

[Muskie]

I cannot remember if it was right before overtime or during overtime, but I turned to American X (apparently Snipe was lurking behind me) and said: "Championship Caliber teams find a way to win this game".

[murray87]

Great road win by the boys, congrats! TFB was fantastic. Great night for Naji and I'm glad that Kelan Martin is graduating! Hoping to see the return of the @Seton Hall and @Wisconsin JP. Has he been under the weather? Big kudos to our big dudes Irish and the Turk! Heal up fast Tyrique.

[paulxu]

The not being able to keep good guards in front of us and them getting into the lane seemingly at will probably is what it is at this point. We face a lot of really good tough guards in our league though that is for sure.

This seems to have been our biggest challenge so far (see ASU) this year, but perhaps all teams face the same issue.

Was very impressed we held Butler to 30 pts in the first half. Believe that was some of the best man D I have seen us execute all year.
Yes, they had a nice run in there. But runs ebb and flow during the game, just like ours did.
Whether corrections, or getting tired, we didn't execute it as well in the second half. Still, that first half was very good.

[X-band '01]

Butler was very efficient in terms of shooting in the 2nd half - they usually play a slower tempo during the game. I'm shocked that they didn't try to throw even some token pressure on the final possession in regulation and in OT as well. I thought Xavier's TO in the final minute of regulation was a taste of their own medicine from the St. John's/Georgetown games that might have been hard to overcome.

Creighton isn't what you would call a pressing team, but they will play a much faster tempo than Butler will and it's not inconceivable that Saturday's game could go into the hundreds for points scored for both teams.

[stammina0721]

Stamina is very entertaining poster. I don't want to ever watch a game with you. Just saying.

Well there may or may not be a very large bottle of Kettle One with cranberry juice in the fridge that I may or may not partake in during Xavier games!!!

[smileyy]

This seems to have been our biggest challenge so far (see ASU) this year, but perhaps all teams face the same issue.


Way back before the conference season, in some ranking of Big East players, both Macura and Bluiett were described at "turnstiles" on defense. I'm thinking there's some truth to that, given challenges with opposing guards.

I'm thrilled that Naji Marshall is stepping up as a lockdown defender. I'm seeing a breakout season for him next year, when he'll be carrying a lot more of the scoring load.

[IM4X]

Yes. Continue to be impressed with how the young ones are playing... more fearlessly and proving they can be difference makers. The team played well even when Tre and JP were both on the bench.

Nice to see Trevon playing with such confidence and swagger and poise when the team needs him most. He looks like the Trevon I think we all expected to see this season. It's a beautiful thing to watch indeed.

[Cheesehead]

Well there may or may not be a very large bottle of Kettle One with cranberry juice in the fridge that I may or may not partake in during Xavier games!!!

Well, now I know.

[bobbiemcgee]

Mack and Goodman discuss things such as Ms. Pacman prowess at 34:00

http://www.espn.com/espnradio/play?id=22356135

[IM4X]

Mack and Goodman discuss things such as Ms. Pacman prowess at 34:00

http://www.espn.com/espnradio/play?id=22356135

Nice. Thx for posting!

[bobbiemcgee]

Warts and all.....

https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/is-no-5-xavier-for-real-overtime-victory-at-butler-says-that-it-is/

[GIMMFD]

Warts and all.....

https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/is-no-5-xavier-for-real-overtime-victory-at-butler-says-that-it-is/

I think he's right though, we don't pass the eye test, but there's some real fight in this team, they know how to close out close ones and win very scrappily. That and I'm never counting this team out with Trevon Blueitt running the show.

[bleedXblue]

I'm absolutely loving some of the social media/Butler Hoops posts/tweets. All of the excuses, blaming of the refs, blaming X for playing physical and pushing off on almost every play. It's hysterical.

How you could see anything other than a really good basketball game last night is amazing to me. Then again we're talking about Butler fans.

One guy was actually mad of the tweet with JP and the water fountain.......classic.

[stammina0721]

Well, now I know.

If this site did a like button I would love this response

[American X]

If this site did a like button I would love this response

Click on the little star to the left under a username. If you hover, it says 'Add to this user's reputation'. Click on it to give Cheesehead positive reputation points.