Xavier vs. Providence Game Thread - Big East Tournament Semifinal (March 9, 2018)

[American X]

http://logos.statbroadcast.com/beastmbb.png

#3 Xavier Musketeers (28-4, 15-3) vs. Providence Friars (20-12, 10-8)

March 9, 2018

Game Time: 6:30 p.m. ET

Madison Square Garden | New York, New York

TV: FS1 | Fox Sports Go (https://www.foxsportsgo.com/program/347050/college-basketball-big-east-tournament-first-quarterfinal-teams-tba)

Radio: 55 KRC Listen Live (https://www.iheart.com/live/55krc-1709/?pname=fire&campid=local&callletters=wkrc-am) | Westwood One

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

Live Stats (http://www.statbroadcast.com/events/tournament.php?tid=562)

[GIMMFD]

Pleased with this rather than Kyrie playing defense on Tre again, plus how hot Foster can get. I like this match-up, if we play anything like we did that second half, we take care of business comfortably.

[SemajParlor]

Is Providence the only team we haven't played in the Big East tournament? I believe so.

[DexterBailey84]

Zip em up! Keep it rollin!

[xu koop scoop]

Being a 1 seed, how come we don't get the late game. Last year it was advertised at 630 and I had something going on at 9pm - so I missed it.

[X-band '01]

Is Providence the only team we haven't played in the Big East tournament? I believe so.

Correct.

[XUFan09]

Being a 1 seed, how come we don't get the late game. Last year it was advertised at 630 and I had something going on at 9pm - so I missed it.The team gets a couple more hours of rest before the final if they win.

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[markchal]

Win it for Kanter! Then his brother can finally see him play a college basketball game in person.

[American X]

Banners on the Parkway Preview (https://www.bannersontheparkway.com/2018/3/9/17098524/xavier-v-big-east-semifinal-tournament-2018-ncaa-providence-mack-cooley-bluiett-bullock-bubble-watch)

GoXavier Preview (http://goxavier.com/news/2018/3/8/mens-basketball-no-1-seed-xavier-takes-on-no-5-seed-providence-in-big-east-tournament-semifinals.aspx)

Fox Sports Preview (https://www.foxsports.com/college-basketball/boxscore?id=100814&type=5)

Big East Preview (http://www.bigeast.com/news/2018/3/8/mens-basketball-providence-set-to-face-xavier-in-the-semifinals.aspx)

Providence Game Notes (http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/prov/sports/m-baskbl/auto_pdf/2017-18/release/release_20180309aaa.pdf)

[SemajParlor]

I wish this game was at 7

[Xuperman]

Have a hunch the guy wearing NUMBER ZERO will come up big tonight

[Muskie]

Guy behind me says Macura belongs on broadway with the Lion King


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[RoseyMuskie]

Like this lineup. Length giving PC problems.

[X Factor]

Scruggs!!

[stammina0721]

So is Scruggs trying to take the torch lol. Him and Naji are gonna be fun to watch if we can find another big next year

[HenryMuto]

Talk about a boost from no where 10 pts already from Scruggs.

[paulxu]

Didn't get to see much of first half. I see Kaiser is 0-2, so I guess he was pulled early.
But he had 3 boards and 2 steals while he was in there.

[Jesuit4Life]

https://twitter.com/CBBonFOX/status/972261623804002304?s=19

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[smileyy]

Scruggernuts!

[kellernr]

Didn't get to see much of first half. I see Kaiser is 0-2, so I guess he was pulled early.
But he had 3 boards and 2 steals while he was in there.His shot isnt falling. 1 brick and 1 air ball but his D has been pretty good.

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[paulxu]

Are they wearing Running Man?

[mistabeecee41]

Get Sean outta there

[GoMuskies]

Why can't O'Mara make two footers anymore?

[paulxu]

Also, why do we get sloppy when we have a nice lead?

[HenryMuto]

Game was on lock down but then the turnovers started

[kellernr]

Tre needs to stick to running off screens and draining 3s. Hes got to have 5+ turnovers on awful passes.

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[paulxu]

Tyrique should never dribble.

[kellernr]

Once again they get a Big lead and try to coast. This will end up as a <10pt win. Might help my pick the score record

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[xavierj]

Tre needs to stick to running off screens and draining 3s. Hes got to have 5+ turnovers on awful passes.

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Xavier has 6 turnovers for the game. Tre 1

[X Factor]

Shooting is abysmal

[kellernr]

Xavier has 6 turnovers for the game. Tre 1Watching the game it seems like whenever he tried to dribble and pass he turns it over.

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[xavierj]

Shooting is abysmal

Yes it’s bad. Seem bored 2nd half. Need to turn it up again.

[xavierj]

Watching the game it seems like whenever he tried to dribble and pass he turns it over.

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Tre does seem off.

[kellernr]

Shooting is abysmalOmara and Jones are 2 for 8 from 2ft. Not sure why Mack still tries to give all 3 bigs close to even minutes when Kanter is clearly the most productive 5.

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[kellernr]

Tre does seem off.Hoping we hold on here and he gets back to normal tomorrow.

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[stammina0721]

Xavier has 6 turnovers for the game. Tre 1

I know... the issue is not turnovers its dumb shots. The difference between Nova and X is X gets emotional. If Gates or JP hit a 3 they instantly Jack up another less than 10 seconds into the shot clock as a heat check. It's nice when it falls but it leads to bad run outs when it bricks. Nova does not get emotional no matter how big the run. That is why X keeps teams in games and Nova extends leads

[GoMuskies]

Since we got the 17 point lead, this has been a real shitshow.

[X Factor]

Gonna screw around and lose this

[stammina0721]

That being said I love our emotion... it makes games fun and interesting...

[X Factor]

Did X stop playing defense again?

[stammina0721]

Gonna screw around and lose this

Get outta here with that ill put any money on that claim

[GoMuskies]

Did X stop playing defense again?

And offense

[X Factor]

Get outta here with that ill put any money on that claim

Only up 4 now...

[mistabeecee41]

I feel like there have been a ton of runs this year where I’ve said to myself “how has chris not called a timeout?”

this is another one

[xavierj]

Did X stop playing defense again?

I don’t think so. Providence has hit some tough shots.

[stammina0721]

Basketball is a game of runs. Do you honestly think X is the number 3 team in the country and does not have another run in them to push this lead back up?

[kellernr]

Only up 4 now...We are running a bearcat offense. Pass around the 3pt line then chuck it up at the end of the clock

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[letskeepitreal]

Trevon and JP too quiet. Gotta get into the game!

[stammina0721]

Only up 4 now...

Name your amount

[X Factor]

Name your amount

I'm not hoping X loses dufus.

[kellernr]

Need to drive the lane and draw some fouls. Providence will be in the bonus on the next foul. We are still 3 fouls away from getting to the bonus

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[X Factor]

17 point lead is gone!!!

[HenryMuto]

This game got a little too exciting for being up 17

[HenryMuto]

They won't miss

[stammina0721]

I'm not hoping X loses dufus.

I know I'm just saying X is better and they will win

[HenryMuto]

X taking some awful shots

[GoMuskies]

Jesus, what an awful half.

[X Factor]

Total collapse

[mistabeecee41]

There’s the timeout that should happened when the lead got to 6

[paulxu]

We lost the last 2 4 minute wars.

Let's win this one.

[kellernr]

Game over.

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[stammina0721]

All year in this situation X has been cold blooded. It's gonna happen again

[XBR1]

Come on seniors

[XBR1]

Seniors shoot

[HenryMuto]

Game over.

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Apparently games end tied now with 3:33 left on the clock ??????????????????????

[stammina0721]

See we got the lead less than 2 minutes... I'm fully confident

[kellernr]

Seems like naji has 20 rebounds tonight

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[Lloyd Braun]

Refs are terrible both ways.

[HenryMuto]

Wow that was close to them stealing that ball and having a walk down layup instead O'Mara hits.

No open 3s now force a contested jump shot.

[Grizzx12]

That was a ballsy call. Nice finish by Big O

[stammina0721]

Kareem Abdul Omara

[HenryMuto]

OMFG just make a layup game over

[kellernr]

What the fuck was Tre doing

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[GoMuskies]

Unbelievable

[HenryMuto]

Game should been over now got to win it a 2nd time cause can't make a layup or could just pulled it out and hit FT's

[Lloyd Braun]

Wtf

[mistabeecee41]

Providence deserves to win

[X Factor]

Total stupidity by X

[stammina0721]

Wow how does Blueitt miss that

[Lloyd Braun]

Shot clock off up 2. Hold the ball dude

[kellernr]

Get Kanter back in there

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[LadyMuskie]

We can't hit the ocean from the beach right now. Ugly.

[kellernr]

Tre can't do anything right tonight.

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[GoMuskies]

And I have to watch this with a bunch of mouthbreather UC fans in the sportsbook for some reason. This is epically shitty.

[kellernr]

We need a basket and we run a lineup with gates Jones and goodin out there. Not good

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[mistabeecee41]

Get Kanter back in there

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I don’t get how he hasn’t played. Not Mack’s finest night

[stammina0721]

I dont know why Kanter is out

[GreatWhiteNorth]

X is missing too many shots to win vs anybody.

[JTG]

Burn these fucking running man jerseys.

[kellernr]

1 minute to go and down by 1 and you have all your seniors on the bench

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[stammina0721]

Wow thank you Blueitt for missing that layup with 8 seconds left to make me look like an asshole showing supreme confidence

[LadyMuskie]

This is like bizarro world basketball. No intensity from the seniors. Weird lineups. Blown 17 point lead. Unbelievable.

[kellernr]

This is like bizarro world basketball. No intensity from the seniors. Weird lineups. Blown 17 point lead. Unbelievable.We need JP to get his mojo back. He's been off lately.

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[xu82]

We can’t BUY A BASKET!

[HenryMuto]

Unreal JP could passed it to Gooden for a layup

[kellernr]

Pass the damn ball and it a layup.

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[Lloyd Braun]

Ok I’m just about done with the block/charge rule.

[paulxu]

All JP had to do was pass it off. Oh well.

[Grizzx12]

Unreal JP could passed it to Gooden for a layup

Or just use his brain. There's only one way to not convert that and shit

[xu82]

JP to Q and we win, most likely.

[mistabeecee41]

Unreal JP could passed it to Gooden for a layup

An absolute meltdown from our seniors. Disappointing is an understatement

[GoMuskies]

Not meant to be tonight.

[LadyMuskie]

We've got some things to work on before next week. Lots of stupid basketball tonight that will absolutely get amplified in the tournament.

[xu82]

Not meant to be tonight.

March is young.

[HenryMuto]

WTF didn't even get a shot off.

[GoMuskies]

Fitting ending

[kellernr]

Why did bluiett pass it back. Turn around and at least attempt the damn shot. Bye bye 1 seed.

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[HenryMuto]

Should never have lost this game. So frustrating.

[kellernr]

Also why did goodin keep driving? Did he forget how to count?

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[X Factor]

Xavier just wrote the book on how to lose a close basketball game.

Epic collapse and boneheaded plays.

[xu82]

Let them play Nova. We will peak where it counts. Butler went to the Finals without winning a BE tourney game.

[Caveat]

Choking away a #1 seed.

Just awesome.

[LadyMuskie]

Well, that was a team loss. Everyone sucked. Good. They got it out of their system. Now it's time to regroup, look ahead and get ready for the next opponent.

[GoMuskies]

Let them play Nova. We will peak where it counts. Butler went to the Finals without winning a BE tourney game.

It would have been very difficult for them to win a Big East Tournament game from the Horizon.

[stammina0721]

I cant believe what I just saw.... Kanter got zero time and our team scores 13 points in 18 minutes of game time. We had 58 points with 13 minutes to go. This loss is quintessential Cincinnati sports life. Always a disappointment. I am so sorry to say this but unless we are matched with Kansas we are elite 8 and out at best

[HenryMuto]

Really a tough one to take I mean you have 2 ways to win in regulation make a layup or hold get fouled and make FT's.

Then in OT your down 1 and have a ...........ah F it.

[Caveat]

Let them play Nova. We will peak where it counts. Butler went to the Finals without winning a BE tourney game.

Teams that choke away 17 point leads don’t make the Finals.

This team has so much talent but is so incredibly flawed defensively. Just disappointing.

[Xavier]

Need a lot of help for a 1 seed. I’d guess 50/50 at this point.

[X-ceptional]

It is what it is. Season doesn't end after this L, but it will if there's another one.

Hopefully a wake-up call for Tre. This is your time--don't waste it.

Onto bigger and better things.

[Lloyd Braun]

I cant believe what I just saw.... Kanter got zero time and our team scores 13 points in 18 minutes of game time. We had 58 points with 13 minutes to go. This loss is quintessential Cincinnati sports life. Always a disappointment. I am so sorry to say this but unless we are matched with Kansas we are elite 8 and out at best

Elite 8 is this teams ceiling for sure!

Gtfo

[xu82]

We’ve won a lot of close ones. We’ve come back from deep holes. Now a little medicine might be worthwhile before what REALLY counts.

[Xville]

Played like absolute crap after the first half...absolute crap. This team plays lacksadasical way too much.

[stammina0721]

Can anyone imagine Jalen Brunson not showing like Blueitt didnt in this game?

[Blue Blooded-05]

Providence was 18/34 from the floor over the last 25 minutes. We were 8/30

[HenryMuto]

A rough loss for sure but I still believe this team will make the Final 4.

[Xupergirl]

I’m one to say it was the refs but god damn come on. It’s gonna take awhile to get over this game. %#*$

[xu82]

Teams that choke away 17 point leads don’t make the Finals.

This team has so much talent but is so incredibly flawed defensively. Just disappointing.

Of course it’s disappointing. I’ve said all along I care more about the NCAA tournament than the BE. THAT is where I want to peak. I pray Mack can make the point and make it happen.

[Caveat]

Elite 8 is this teams ceiling for sure!

Gtfo

The team I just watched isn’t going to make the Elite 8.

[X-ceptional]

This team has so much talent but is so incredibly flawed defensively. Just disappointing.

Tonight was an offense problem. 36.8% from the floor is the worst they've shot all season. Only ETSU game was also under 40%.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Hopefully they learn to keep the foot on the gas. This was not a good finish.


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[Lloyd Braun]

I wish we were in the A10 or AAC so we could win a conference tournament :(

[LadyMuskie]

The refs are not to blame. They weren't perfect, but there were a lot of missed calls on both ends. We lost this game on our own. From Mack down, this was a nightmare second half. Providence adjusted, we didn't.

[stammina0721]

We’ve won a lot of close ones. We’ve come back from deep holes. Now a little medicine might be worthwhile before what REALLY counts.

Well I have 100 years of basketball history to back my claim what do you have? I took the ultimate optimist approach in this game and was rewarded with an uncontested miss on a lay up with 8 seconds left from a supposed all American. Tell me why I'm wrong

[xu82]

A rough loss for sure but I still believe this team will make the Final 4.

I believe they CAN, and that hasn’t changed because of an OT loss in a rough conference.

[Lloyd Braun]

The team I just watched isn’t going to make the Elite 8.

Noted.

[OTRMUSKIE]

This game meant nothing. X is a 1, it’s a lock trust me. Providence wanted this game and they did beat us once already. X never wins these stupid conference tournaments and they do pretty well in the dance. I’m happy for ed Cooley I really like him. He will of course lose the first game in the dance bc that’s the providence way. X is fine and I think this honestly was a blessing. Nobody can get hurt tomorrow.

[stammina0721]

The refs are not to blame. They weren't perfect, but there were a lot of missed calls on both ends. We lost this game on our own. From Mack down, this was a nightmare second half. Providence adjusted, we didn't.

This... for Kanter to be out is an absolute injustice

[XU 87]

If Bluiett makes an uncontested layup we wouldn't thave to read some of the stupid shit being written here.

[kellernr]

I cant believe what I just saw.... Kanter got zero time and our team scores 13 points in 18 minutes of game time. We had 58 points with 13 minutes to go. This loss is quintessential Cincinnati sports life. Always a disappointment. I am so sorry to say this but unless we are matched with Kansas we are elite 8 and out at bestGoodin lost his shot and better get it back by Thursday or Friday.

Bluiett will be fine

JP cut his hair and lost his swag

Jones needs to stay on the bench. He's back to being a foul machine that can't score

Scruggs looked good out there in the 1st half but disappeared late

Naji is a beast on the glass and defensively but couldn't make a layup to save his life tonight

Omara still can't finish that 2 ft hook. (Good bucket to take the lead late before Tre blew it)

Kanter should always see more playing time than Sean and Jones.

Kaiser is still Kaiser. Have 1 good game every 10 games.







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[xavierj]

Teams that choke away 17 point leads donÂ’t make the Finals.

This team has so much talent but is so incredibly flawed defensively. Just disappointing.

Defense was far from the pronlem. Hold Providence to 15% from 3, 43% overall outrebound them by 7 and only 10 turnovers and they lose. Crazy stuff. Just blew it bad. Trevon was really bad.

[RoseyMuskie]

This game meant nothing. X is a 1, it’s a lock trust me. Providence wanted this game and they did beat us once already. X never wins these stupid conference tournaments and they do pretty well in the dance. I’m happy for ed Cooley I really like him. He will of course lose the first game in the dance bc that’s the providence way. X is fine and I think this honestly was a blessing. Nobody can get hurt tomorrow.

Hope you’re right. A Duke loss tonight and you will be. Would make the night a lot better.

[X-ceptional]

How shaggy can JP's hair get by Thursday or Friday?

[KabeX]

Well the vibe here took a 180 at about the 12 or 13 min mark. I hate to say it but I just felt it coming. Motivation next week should not be an issue. I am freaking declaring now that we are this year's North Carolina.

[xu82]

Well I have 100 years of basketball history to back my claim what do you have? I took the ultimate optimist approach in this game and was rewarded with an uncontested miss on a lay up with 8 seconds left from a supposed all American. Tell me why I'm wrong

Take a deep breath. What the hell was your point? Shit happens. It may help prepare you for future challenges. I’m on record as liking to advance in the BE, but LOVING to advance in the NCAA. Nothing has changed. Tough to blow a lead, but we still have fewer losses than almost anyone in the country. Our first half D looked like good March defense. I’m glad this didn’t happen when it “really counted” by my book.

[kellernr]

If Bluiett makes an uncontested layup we wouldn't thave to read some of the stupid shit being written here.If the pre season all American holds the ball with the shot clock off we win. He gets fouled, makes his free throws and we play again tomorrow. Instead the guy that was 2 for 13 from the floor tries to be the hero when he didn't need to be.

Then in OT the other senior leader decides to take it upon himself to win it when he could have just dropped it off to Q who was wide open for a layup.

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[kellernr]

How shaggy can JP's hair get by Thursday or Friday?Rogaine.

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[kellernr]

Hope you’re right. A Duke loss tonight and you will be. Would make the night a lot better.Need duke to lose if they want to stay a 1 seed. If duke wins tonight and loses in the finals they will still jump X. The duke name pulls more weight

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[powerofX]

I blame the game day guide saying we have 5 loses on this loss!!!

[XU 87]

If the pre season all American holds the ball with the shot clock off we win. He gets fouled, makes his free throws and we play again tomorrow. Instead the guy that was 2 for 13 from the floor tries to be the hero when he didn't need to be.

Then in OT the other senior leader decides to take it upon himself to win it when he could have just dropped it off to Q who was wide open for a layup.

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Personally, I wish you would shut up.

[stammina0721]

If the pre season all American holds the ball with the shot clock off we win. He gets fouled, makes his free throws and we play again tomorrow. Instead the guy that was 2 for 13 from the floor tries to be the hero when he didn't need to be.

Then in OT the other senior leader decides to take it upon himself to win it when he could have just dropped it off to Q who was wide open for a layup.

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Couldn't be more right here.

[xavierj]

I hope Providence can not lay another egg in the NCAA tournament.

[stammina0721]

Okay all I gotta say Wild Turkey 101 and a Xavier implosion is just not a great mix.

[chico]

Well I have 100 years of basketball history to back my claim what do you have? I took the ultimate optimist approach in this game and was rewarded with an uncontested miss on a lay up with 8 seconds left from a supposed all American. Tell me why I'm wrong

You need to step back off the ledge. Are you really saying that because we blew a 17 point lead we can't win it all? Well hell, we just might as well not even go.

[stammina0721]

I hope Providence can not lay another egg in the NCAA tournament.

Not gonna happen. Providence blows

[KabeX]

I want a 1 seed as much as everyone else. Would help with prestige, recruiting etc... But does it really matter at this point for our final 4 chances. F the freakin seed. Play hard AND SMART and beat whoever the hell we play.

[XU 87]

Couldn't be more right here.

See my comment above.

[paulxu]

I hope we go far this year in the tourney. I like this team, and love the record they've put up.
But without a question, the one chink in the armor is focus.
Whenever they get up a lot, they just sort of go sloppy. At least that's my impression.
That's OK when it's St Johns.
But Providence, whose beaten you once, you just can't afford it.
We can say 10 TO's, and that's not bad. But we lost by 3. They scored off 4 TO's in the second half. Do the math.
We keep from having that loss of focus, we can go far.

[xu82]

Hopefully they learn to keep the foot on the gas. This was not a good finish.


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Keeping the foot on the gas was considered rude yesterday!

[kellernr]

See my comment above.Triggered?

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[Caveat]

You need to step back off the ledge. Are you really saying that because we blew a 17 point lead we can't win it all? Well hell, we just might as well not even go.

Hyperbole aside, it’s very difficult to see how a team that chokes a 17 point lead away to Providence is going to make a deep tourney run.

[XUBison]

Xavier just wrote the book on how to lose a close basketball game.

Epic collapse and boneheaded plays.

This wasn’t a close basketball game.

[stammina0721]

You need to step back off the ledge. Are you really saying that because we blew a 17 point lead we can't win it all? Well hell, we just might as well not even go.

I'm a Cincinnati sports fan. I was there in 99 when the most exciting part of the Reds Mets game was the fan running in the field, I was at the divisional rounds where the reds lost 3 straight games. Not only that of you watch the Buster Posey grand slam it hits the plexiglass 1 inch from my nutsack. Then I watch the Bengals blow playoff game after playoff game, I see how a game like tonight ends and can you blame me for expecting the worst?

[GuyFawkes38]

Yikes, calm down folks.

[scoscox]

I hope Providence can not lay another egg in the NCAA tournament.

Not holding my breath

[letskeepitreal]

Well, if we learn anything it will be focus. Hope that lessson is learned as the consequences are season ending from this point forward.

[IM4X]

It was hard to watch X give away a sure win again. Don't get how so many of our players went into a funk in one half. Still, glad I came to the game.

Shooting was abysmal... so many missed easy layups... by seniors too. So many opportunities to put Providence away. Ugh. Scruggs was special today though - good to see.

[chico]

Hyperbole aside, it’s very difficult to see how a team that chokes a 17 point lead away to Providence is going to make a deep tourney run.

Why? It's the same team that won 28 games this year. Providence is a tourney team.

We had one bad stretch of 15 minutes and people think the sky is falling. Talk about hyperbole.

[Caveat]

I'm a Cincinnati sports fan. I was there in 99 when the most exciting part of the Reds Mets game was the fan running in the field, I was at the divisional rounds where the reds lost 3 straight games. Not only that of you watch the Buster Posey grand slam it hits the plexiglass 1 inch from my nutsack. Then I watch the Bengals blow playoff game after playoff game, I see how a game like tonight ends and can you blame me for expecting the worst?

Got a text from a friend right after the game “The jersey says XAVIER but they’re still a Cincinnati sports team to the core.”

Sums it up for me.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Is it possible Providence is just good? I mean they did beat us once. Relax!!! Let the friar fans enjoy this. They don’t know what it’s like to win in the dance so they use the conf as their substitute.

[slysyl]

Why pick on the seniors or anyone for that matter.THERE WERE A LOT OF THINGS THAT WENT WRONG IN THE SECOND HALF. It was a basketball game;we lick our wounds and learn a big lesson to go dancing. GO XAVIER.

[mistabeecee41]

Why? It's the same team that won 28 games this year. Providence is a tourney team.

We had one bad stretch of 15 minutes and people think the sky is falling. Talk about hyperbole.

yes were bitter about the game, but the bigger issue is we lost the game doing things we've done all year and got away with. it finally came to bite us in the ass and if we don't correct these issues, it will again

[kellernr]

Hyperbole aside, it’s very difficult to see how a team that chokes a 17 point lead away to Providence is going to make a deep tourney run. I'm not saying we won't make a deep run. Just venting from the loss. I still think we can make a run in the dance. How many people expected us to make a run as a 13 loss 11 seed? Who thought Syracuse would go on the FF run a few years ago after sneaking in to the tourney with 13 losses.

Just need to get the right matchups and play with intensity for 40 minutes. Can't get up on teams and then try to coast in March.

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[chico]

I'm a Cincinnati sports fan. I was there in 99 when the most exciting part of the Reds Mets game was the fan running in the field, I was at the divisional rounds where the reds lost 3 straight games. Not only that of you watch the Buster Posey grand slam it hits the plexiglass 1 inch from my nutsack. Then I watch the Bengals blow playoff game after playoff game, I see how a game like tonight ends and can you blame me for expecting the worst?

Don't give me that crap. I've lived here my whole life too so don't try to pull the "I was there" card. It's stupid and has absolutely nothing to do with this current team. How in the hell do the Reds have anything in the world to do with this team? What the hell does the Bengals history have to do with this team? It's such a ridiculous argument that it boggles the mind.

[Caveat]

Why pick on the seniors or anyone for that matter.THERE WERE A LOT OF THINGS THAT WENT WRONG IN THE SECOND HALF. It was a basketball game;we lick our wounds and learn a big lesson to go dancing. GO XAVIER.

Because Xavier literally lost the game because Tre couldn’t make a layup and JP couldn’t pass to avoid a charge.

[stammina0721]

Got a text from a friend right after the game “The jersey says XAVIER but they’re still a Cincinnati sports team to the core.”

Sums it up for me.

We are the new cleveland. Every team in this city is ultimately cursed

[XUBob]

Sick to my stomach, no way this should have happened. We’ve been living on the edge all year long, how many leads have we blown and we’re able to hold on. Tonight it bit X in the ass. I love Chris but my consistent beefs with him are two fold. I don’t think he calls timeouts well. I know he wants the kids to play through it but I believe he waits to long. Game gets too close and we lose momentum. I also think he lets the kids play too aggressively with a lead, I like the fact X plays in attack mode but when we are up double digits I think more control from the bench may be warranted. Worried about the NCAA this team could make a long run or be gone early. As good as this team is I’ve never felt confident when they are ahead.

[xu82]

I hated how that ended, and I know this won’t be popular, but I’d rather go out angry and fired up after an OT loss we should have won than after a 22 drubbing by Nova. Sometimes you just don’t match up well. This can and does change with time, but I can live with tonight.

[stammina0721]

Don't give me that crap. I've lived here my whole life too so don't try to pull the "I was there" card. It's stupid and has absolutely nothing to do with this current team. How in the hell do the Reds have anything in the world to do with this team? What the hell does the Bengals history have to do with this team? It's such a ridiculous argument that it boggles the mind.

It has nothing to do with it except this city is cursed. Noone can tell me otherwise. I've always joked with my UC friends that Xavier has surpassed UC cause we dont have Cincinnati in our name. But I guess the curse of Cincinnati is just too strong.. If X makes a final four I will retract that statement... until then the curse lives

[SkyWalker]

We got outplayed and outcoached tonight. Providence came out in the second half and took it to us. Providence played really good defense in the second half and we still had a couple of opportunities to win the game. Needed some Senior leadership down the stretch. One thing that really frustrates me is the quick shots from 3 in the first half. We really dominated the first half but wasted too many possessions. Should have been up a lot more that 14 at the half. Great games for Scruggs and Kantner. The seasons is not over!

[XU 87]

I wish some of you would stop posting. This team is 28-5. It's embarrassing reading some of the things you say.

[X-ceptional]

Maybe consider that this was literally the worst this Xavier team has shot in any game all year long and they still almost beat an NCAA tournament team.

[X Factor]

Because Xavier literally lost the game because Tre couldn’t make a layup and JP couldn’t pass to avoid a charge.

And Trevon and JP combined to shoot 6-24 from the field. Both made unbelievably stupid plays as seniors down the stretch and in overtime.

[chico]

It has nothing to do with it except this city is cursed. Noone can tell me otherwise. I've always joked with my UC friends that Xavier has surpassed UC cause we dont have Cincinnati in our name.

Johnny Bench can tell you otherwise. So can Barry Larkin.

Maybe we should make a sacrifice to Jobu or kill a chicken.

[LadyMuskie]

I hope we go far this year in the tourney. I like this team, and love the record they've put up.
But without a question, the one chink in the armor is focus.
Whenever they get up a lot, they just sort of go sloppy. At least that's my impression.
That's OK when it's St Johns.
But Providence, whose beaten you once, you just can't afford it.
We can say 10 TO's, and that's not bad. But we lost by 3. They scored off 4 TO's in the second half. Do the math.
We keep from having that loss of focus, we can go far.

This is hard to argue with. Mental toughness and focus seem to come and go not only during games but from one game to another. We have to find a way to keep a certain level of intensity not only throughout an entire game, but also from one game to the next. And that's true for the coaches as well as the players. The skill and talent are unquestionable. We can't just play balls to the wall when we feel disrespected by some announcer or whatever, and then assume all the teams on the road ahead are going to lay down and quit just because we're Xavier.

[X Factor]

I wish some of you would stop posting. This team is 28-5. It's embarrassing reading some of the things you say.

That doesn't mean fans can't be upset at the total collapse Xavier just had. To be up 17 points and let Providence come back...that should NEVER happen. Our main guys failed to execute with the game on the line.

If X plays like that next weekend, it could be season over.

[stammina0721]

Maybe consider that this was literally the worst this Xavier team has shot in any game all year long and they still almost beat an NCAA tournament team.

Not a good sign going into a one and done scenario. 2 years ago we played bad vs Weber State and it cost us dearly

[xavierj]

Well At least the last 4 NCAA champs did not win their conference tourney.

[Strange Brew]

Soooooooo, what time is the Selection Show?

Burn the tape.

More important things happen next week!

It’s March, X is still playing ball and I can’t wait to see where.

LET’S GO X!

P.S. the school is going to hang a brand new., shiny, beautiful banner this year. We all deep down know we’ll do what we do and keep adding years to it.

[X Factor]

Maybe consider that this was literally the worst this Xavier team has shot in any game all year long and they still almost beat an NCAA tournament team.

It's not just that. It's the bonehead plays by Trevon (missing a point blank layup, instead of holding the ball and getting fouled up 2 points) and JP (just lay it off to Goodin for a layup instead of playing hero ball).

X just failed to execute. It wasn't JUST that the shots weren't falling. When the shots aren't falling, you have to do the other stuff to win games.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

We played not to lose against Wisconsin and lost on a last second 3. These guys need to just keep the foot on the gas and apologize after the game is over. Relax people, this team will succeed in the tourney if the matchups are good.


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[Lloyd Braun]

We are the new cleveland. Every team in this city is ultimately cursed

Bring in and from cleveland I can assure you neither of these statements are true.

[stammina0721]

Soooooooo, what time is the Selection Show?

Burn the tape.

More important things happen next week!

It’s March, X is still playing ball and I can’t wait to see where.

LET’S GO X!

P.S. the school is going to hang a brand new., shiny, beautiful banner this year. We all deep down know we’ll do what we do and keep adding years to it.

I made this point 3 months ago and got crucified

[xufan2020]

Some of you are insufferable. Season isn’t over, get over it. You think the players and Mack aren’t fuming right now? I fully expect to come to the dance absolutely focused ready to play our best basketball

[kellernr]

At least they won't get embarrassed by nova for a 3rd time. Nova currently up 16-0 on butler.

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[stammina0721]

Time for another wild turkey 101

[X-ceptional]

X rose from 62 to 60 kenpom defensive efficiency rating after that though. #silverlinings

(overall EM dropped from 10 to 14 #shit)

[xu82]

Some of you are insufferable. Season isn’t over, get over it. You think the players and Mack aren’t fuming right now? I fully expect to come to the dance absolutely focused ready to play our best basketball

I’m not sure this isn’t the best thing that could have happened.

[XUBison]

I wish some of you would stop posting. This team is 28-5. It's embarrassing reading some of the things you say.

You really wasted your time, and everyone else’s, to post this? So weird how annoyed some people are with what anonymous people post on a message board. Find a new hobby.

[X-ceptional]

Time to ready another urn with the ashes of this fucking box score.

[X-ceptional]

You really wasted your time, and everyone else’s, to post this? So weird how annoyed some people are with what anonymous people post on a message board. Find a new hobby.

Pot, kettle?

[X Factor]

At least they won't get embarrassed by nova for a 3rd time. Nova currently up 16-0 on butler.

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They would do the same thing to X.

[xu82]

You really wasted your time, and everyone else’s, to post this? So weird how annoyed some people are with what anonymous people post on a message board. Find a new hobby.

I didn’t find it a waste of my time. I agree with him. I’m not terribly annoyed by any particular fools, but I thinks it’s fair game to state the obvious.

[AviatorX]

Not a good sign going into a one and done scenario. 2 years ago we played bad vs Weber State and it cost us dearly

Lol we did not play bad against Weber.

[chico]

You really wasted your time, and everyone else’s, to post this? So weird how annoyed some people are with what anonymous people post on a message board. Find a new hobby.

Why is it fine to make ridiculous statements but not okay to call someone on it?

[kellernr]

They would do the same thing to X.I know they would. Saw somewhere someone said a loss to providence won't look as bad as a 3rd beat down by nova.

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[xufan2020]

I’m not sure this isn’t the best thing that could have happened.
I understand there are legitimate concerns regarding the team’s ability to hold a lead but Jesus Christ.. This will be the last time I visit a game thread the night of a loss

[whopper]

We won a lot of close games..Goodin full court drive, Tre 4 point play. I caught up with us. No one mentioned we missed a lot of layups and Nat especially seemed to be rushing. I am not sure we converted a single offensive rebound out of 12. Nah was a beast on the boards. The weird thing is the Tre was probably the worst player to catch that ball that hung in the air. He had to catch and turn 90% to lay it up. Not being a dominant athlete he shot it like a player in an A league rec team. I am not going to panic and neither willl Mack. A knowledgeable friend of mine who played for Prov in 70s and is a hoop addict said that there was a stretch when he thought Tre was handling and probing on the dribble too much and that hurt us. Macura in and out 3, Tre in and out left hander(probably fouled), Macura charge(if that was Ashton whoever the ref wold not have called charge but Cartwright earned it. Lets get to the big dance as (probably ) a 2

[stammina0721]

Last thing ill say in my wild turkey extravaganza... This is the question all teams face... go into the tournament with a bad loss or go in on a winning streak???? Let's hope the bad taste is fuel for this team... im not counting on it but i can always hope. I just remember how good going on a streak was for THE RUN team and would have liked that for this group. We are obviously not going in playing our best basketball

[xu82]

I understand there are legitimate concerns regarding the team’s ability to hold a lead but Jesus Christ.. This will be the last time I visit a game thread the night of a loss

Look at the bright side....there were VERY few nights you’d have to skip! I pray this fires them up for the REAL prize, the Big Dance!

[XU 87]

You really wasted your time, and everyone else’s, to post this? So weird how annoyed some people are with what anonymous people post on a message board. Find a new hobby.

You're right. You should keep posting stupid shit. Make sure you include stuff that attacks the players, particularly our seniors.

[Lloyd Braun]

I know they would. Saw somewhere someone said a loss to providence won't look as bad as a 3rd beat down by nova.

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I saw this too and I completely disagree. A loss to nova in the finals would have given us another quadrant 1 win against PC. The loss tonight likely means we are at best the 4th 1 seed unless both duke and Kansas lose.

[AviatorX]

Damn, that was frustrating.

Everyone will be fine after we know where X is playing. Nothing like the 3 day buildup to the first round! Especially when X will be a double digit favorite.

[XUBison]

Why is it fine to make ridiculous statements but not okay to call someone on it?

No problem with calling out an opinion with an opposing viewpoint, but making the effort to wish away people who post things you don’t like on a message board seems like a colossal waste of time. I suppose all of it is, so whatever. Thought the irony of my post would be understood, but I guess not by all.

[kellernr]

I saw this too and I completely disagree. A loss to nova in the finals would have given us another quadrant 1 win against PC. The loss tonight likely means we are at best the 4th 1 seed unless both duke and Kansas lose.Even if we end up the 4th 1 seed Kansas will still go West. Just need duke to lose. Kansas doesn't really matter

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[AviatorX]

Even if we end up the 4th 1 seed Kansas will still go West. Just need duke to lose. Kansas doesn't really matter

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This is wrong.

[Lloyd Braun]

Even if we end up the 4th 1 seed Kansas will still go West. Just need duke to lose. Kansas doesn't really matter

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Huh? This is not true

[X Factor]

You're right. You should keep posting stupid shit. Make sure you include stuff that attacks the players, particularly our seniors.

I haven't seen anyone "attacking the players, particulary our seniors."

They played poorly. People are stating facts. We need them to play a lot better and smarter next week and beyond.

There were some really stupid plays made and not made by Xavier tonight that contributed to the loss. Xavier gave up a 17 point lead. Xavier played lazy once they got a big lead and it came back to bite them like it almost did a few times this year.

[AviatorX]

Guys, fucking Jay Bilas is talking about how X still feels like a 1 seed while calling UNC/Duke right now. The sun is going to come up tomorrow.

[scoscox]

I haven't seen anyone "attacking the players, particulary our seniors."

They played poorly. People are stating facts. We need them to play a lot better and smarter next week and beyond.

There were some really stupid plays made and not made by Xavier tonight that contributed to the loss. Xavier gave up a 17 point lead. Xavier played lazy once they got a big lead and it came back to bite them like it almost did a few times this year.

Yea, this is a game we should've won by twenty. 29 points in the second half in overtime is an incredible collapse.

[kellernr]

Huh? This is not trueI would think they would want to play out West. Either way X did pretty good in the West last year

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[xu82]

I just hope we learn from it. EXCELLENT D in the first half. March on in March!

[LadyMuskie]

Guys, fucking Jay Bilas is talking about how X still feels like a 1 seed while calling UNC/Duke right now. The sun is going to come up tomorrow.

Ew. Feels gross when he talks about us in a positive way. Kinda prefer when Jay is not on our side.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Tomorrow after providence wins nobody is going to care about this game. It was an exhibition game. Burn the tape and let’s get ready for Detroit.

[xu82]

Ew. Feels gross when he talks about us in a positive way. Kinda prefer when Jay is not on our side.

Yeah, it’s icky!

[LadyMuskie]

I saw this too and I completely disagree. A loss to nova in the finals would have given us another quadrant 1 win against PC. The loss tonight likely means we are at best the 4th 1 seed unless both duke and Kansas lose.

This is true, but Nova is playing like they're pissed they didn't win the regular season right now. And, I really feel like the one bright side to this loss is that we won't chance losing to them again on national t.v. since they seem to have our number.

[xavierj]

Who are the 15/16 that Xavier will most likely get in first round? And then 7/8/9/10’s. It will be good to play some fresh blood.

[AviatorX]

Who are the 15/16 that Xavier will most likely get in first round? And then 7/8/9/10’s. It will be good to play some fresh blood.

I'd say Wright St. as a 15 is the only somewhat predictable matchup. The 16's are a crapshoot honestly.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I would think they would want to play out West. Either way X did pretty good in the West last year

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Why would Kansas want to play out west???????

[muethibp]

As I posted here, http://www.xavierhoops.com/showthread.php?32693-No-Respect-Thread/page3, Xavier won every close game it played this season. There was always a strong reversion to the mean possibility with this team - particularly one that plays basically no defense - and tonight it happened. Notwithstanding many of the comments here, tonight’s result doesn’t influence the likelihood of winning next week except to say that a team that’s now 9-1 in close games is still a strong regression to the mean candidate.

I thought Mack was really bad in the second half but there’s only so much you can do with this group. They wanted to play that Tre-JP-Naji-Kanter-PG group for offensive reasons but that group - god love ‘em - can’t guard anyone on the perimeter, they have no interest or ability in rotating, and Kanter is zero rim protection. When they don’t score - and they didn’t - then the other team has a strong chance of just scoring over and over. And PC did.

[scoscox]

They would atleast want to play out west more than we would. They are halfway there.

[AviatorX]

As I posted here, http://www.xavierhoops.com/showthread.php?32693-No-Respect-Thread/page3, Xavier won every close game it played this season. There was always a strong reversion to the mean possibility with this team - particularly one that plays basically no defense - and tonight it happened. Notwithstanding many of the comments here, tonight’s result doesn’t influence the likelihood of winning next week except to say that a team that’s now 9-1 in close games is still a strong regression to the mean candidate.

I thought Mack was really bad in the second half but there’s only so much you can do with this group. They wanted to play that Tre-JP-Naji-Kanter-PG group for offensive reasons but that group - god love ‘em - can’t guard anyone on the perimeter, they have no interest or ability in rotating, and Kanter is zero rim protection. When they don’t score - and they didn’t - then the other team has a strong chance of just scoring over and over. And PC did.

If your take away after that 2nd half is the defense was the problem, not sure what to tell you.

[stammina0721]

As I posted here, http://www.xavierhoops.com/showthread.php?32693-No-Respect-Thread/page3, Xavier won every close game it played this season. There was always a strong reversion to the mean possibility with this team - particularly one that plays basically no defense - and tonight it happened. Notwithstanding many of the comments here, tonight’s result doesn’t influence the likelihood of winning next week except to say that a team that’s now 9-1 in close games is still a strong regression to the mean candidate.

I thought Mack was really bad in the second half but there’s only so much you can do with this group. They wanted to play that Tre-JP-Naji-Kanter-PG group for offensive reasons but that group - god love ‘em - can’t guard anyone on the perimeter, they have no interest or ability in rotating, and Kanter is zero rim protection. When they don’t score - and they didn’t - then the other team has a strong chance of just scoring over and over. And PC did.

Damn it I said I was done but saw this.... If Kanter played more we win... he was the hot hand but he was out the majority of the 2nd half and OT.

[X Factor]

If your take away after that 2nd half is the defense was the problem, not sure what to tell you.

Well Providence was something like 18/34 from the field in the second half. I wouldn't call that good defense.

[D-West & PO-Z]

They would atleast want to play out west more than we would. They are halfway there.

KU to LA is over 1,500 miles. KU to Omaha is just over 200.

[xavierj]

As I posted here, http://www.xavierhoops.com/showthread.php?32693-No-Respect-Thread/page3, Xavier won every close game it played this season. There was always a strong reversion to the mean possibility with this team - particularly one that plays basically no defense - and tonight it happened. Notwithstanding many of the comments here, tonight’s result doesn’t influence the likelihood of winning next week except to say that a team that’s now 9-1 in close games is still a strong regression to the mean candidate.

I thought Mack was really bad in the second half but there’s only so much you can do with this group. They wanted to play that Tre-JP-Naji-Kanter-PG group for offensive reasons but that group - god love ‘em - can’t guard anyone on the perimeter, they have no interest or ability in rotating, and Kanter is zero rim protection. When they don’t score - and they didn’t - then the other team has a strong chance of just scoring over and over. And PC did.

Did you watch the game? The defense was fine, got a ton of stops but couldn’t make shots and didn’t get the whistle. Everything had to wrong for Xavier to lose and it did. Xavier was 23-0 this year when holding teams under 80, now they are 23-1. I like those odds going forward. Only 1 team has scored more than 71 against Xavier in their last 9 NCAA games. And have only given up more than 68 twice in Those 9 games.

[AviatorX]

Well Providence was something like 18/34 from the field in the second half. I wouldn't call that good defense.

To be clear, I mean defense is always an issue with this group but obviously the atrocious shooting performance was the problem tonight. And they still shoulda won.

[AviatorX]

Said it once and I'll say it again. Xavier has blue blood message board meltdowns after a loss. No one is quite on Rupp Rafters level but just below that. I'm almost proud.

[X-ceptional]

said it once and i'll say it again. Xavier has blue blood message board meltdowns after a loss. No one is quite on rupp rafters level but just below that. I'm almost proud.

fire mack

[X-ceptional]

fire mack

this board won't let me post in all caps

[X-ceptional]

this board won't let me post in all caps

http://i0.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/717/428/c6e.jpg

[muethibp]

Did you watch the game? The defense was fine, got a ton of stops but couldn’t make shots and didn’t get the whistle. Everything had to wrong for Xavier to lose and it did. Xavier was 23-0 this year when holding teams under 80, now they are 23-1. I like those odds going forward. Only 1 team has scored more than 71 against Xavier in their last 9 NCAA games. And have only given up more than 68 twice in Those 9 games.

A ton of stops? Like when? In the last 15 minutes, except for the last 90 seconds, PC scored on almost literally every trip down the floor. That’s not hyperbole. Watch the replay or look at the play by play on ESPN. For like a 12 minute period, PC scored almost every trip. That’s not really “a ton of stops.”

[American X]

Said it once and I'll say it again. Xavier has blue blood message board meltdowns after a loss. No one is quite on Rupp Rafters level but just below that. I'm almost proud.


fire mack

Fire Trevor Bullet.

[xu82]

Well Providence was something like 18/34 from the field in the second half. I wouldn't call that good defense.

This is a lesson to learn from. Mack needs to get them fired up so they play that first half D in the second half. Do that and you can shoot a little cold. Live and learn, advance in the big dance! I trust Mack to share the message.

[AviatorX]

A ton of stops? Like when? In the last 15 minutes, except for the last 90 seconds, PC scored on almost literally every trip down the floor. That’s not hyperbole. Watch the replay or look at the play by play on ESPN. For like a 12 minute period, PC scored almost every trip. That’s not really “a ton of stops.”

This doesn't give the whole picture. Cartwright made some incredible shots - two come to mind immediately opposite the PC bench with Scruggs draped all over him.

The offense was CLEARLY the problem. X guarded well enough to win.

[xu82]

We have a few posters to fire.....

[xavierj]

A ton of stops? Like when? In the last 15 minutes, except for the last 90 seconds, PC scored on almost literally every trip down the floor. That’s not hyperbole. Watch the replay or look at the play by play on ESPN. For like a 12 minute period, PC scored almost every trip. That’s not really “a ton of stops.”

Providence shot 15% from 3 and 43% from the game. That means that xavier got a ton of stops

[muethibp]

This doesn't give the whole picture. Cartwright made some incredible shots - two come to mind immediately opposite the PC bench with Scruggs draped all over him.

The offense was CLEARLY the problem. X guarded well enough to win.

Right. Because when you give up a basket on 14 out of 15 possessions (my count - might be off one or so) it’s guarding well enough to win.

[AviatorX]

Right. Because when you give up a basket on 14 out of 15 possessions (my count - might be off one or so) it’s guarding well enough to win.

Well considering X lost by one possession in OT and blew a 99%er that would have iced the game, yes. Next question.

[Porkopolis]

The loss stings. Xavier looked as lifeless as I have seen them in the 2nd half. But you know what? This time next week we'll be watching them dismantle a double digit seed in the NCAA Tournament. They'll learn from this, Mack will make sure of it. And they will be fired up that first weekend.

[D-West & PO-Z]

We do not have a good history in conference tourneys unless we really need to win.

I am slowly becoming less and less pissed, especially with Duke down 9 right now.

Sunday and next week cant come soon enough.