Chris Mack discussion

[xu82]

This is all part of Mack’s genius. He is very publicly showing that he is interviewing at the ville. It will come out that they offered double his salary. Then he very publicly turns it down and then talks about his love for x, love for being a local kid, acknowledging how they have proven x can be a top seed, commits to being at x for “as long as they will have me”. Thus ending all negative recruiting from other schools about how he might leave. If he turns down an ACC job for double the money in his wife’s family home town, he can look recruits in the eye and say he’s not leaving x. Ever. Genius I say! Or at least that’s what I’m telling myself

Keep it up! Feel free to keep telling ME too!

[MHettel]

Here's some spin for you - maybe Hurley took the UConn job because he knew Mack wasn't leaving.

If Hurley knew Mack wasn't leaving, then so could the UofL administration, in which case they wouldn't invite him in just to be declined.

[X Factor]

I think the nail on the coffin was him striking out on his next class. He went for some big time guys and missed on them all. I think that convinced Mack that he may have maxed Xavier out.

I definitely think that played a part. Mack whiffed big time on this recruiting class.

And now Mack will be recruiting against X.

[AviatorX]

I definitely think that played a part. Mack whiffed big time on this recruiting class.

And now Mack will be recruiting against X.

Yes, all those memorable Xavier/Louisville recruiting battles are sure to rage on.

[OTRMUSKIE]

I think Mack is doing this for publicity too. Louisville is a great job for sure, one of the best but no way he is leaving X. I know this because I predicted Nevada to beat UC so I think I’m clairvoyant. Now if my signals are crossed then it means Showty Miller is coming back!!!! And for fun I want to pick him up at the airport in a Buick!!! Or would it be more funny if it was a Lexus?

[X Factor]

Yes, all those memorable Xavier/Louisville recruiting battles are sure to rage on.

Ray Spaulding...there's one off the top of my head.

[Blue Blooded-05]

These complete idiots in Louisville crank up hookers, sex in restaurants and God knows what else, and we'll end up paying for it. OUR GUY - an alum from the City - still leaves us for all that.

This is so true. I never thought of it this way, but your comment perfectly incapsulates so much of my angst with the system. Why do we keep getting punished when other schools fvck up? Was the same thing with Matta. Jim O’Brien was paying those Lithuanians under the table... so of course the only fair remedy is have Ohio State go unpunished and poach Xavier’s coach.


So Mack's a good guy and all I personally wish him well.. But sports wise we hate him and Louisville's guts now, right?

This one hurts more than the others, IMO. I’m a Cleveland sports fan and this feels like the LeBron James to Miami decision. It’s one thing when someone without local ties leaves the first chance they get, but when one of our own does it... damn, that just hurts more.

At this point, you’re either with us or against us. So Chris Mack becomes just like any other competition. From this point forward: Screw him.

[bjf123]

Geezus guys nothing has even happened yet. Step back from the ledge. Even if Mack does take the job, who cares? Haven't we learned by now that Xavier will be just fine?

Xavier was fine when we had a coaching change while in the MCC or A-10. A coaching change in the Big East is a completely different animal. If Mack leaves, and I hope he doesn’t, I see our run of non losing conference seasons ending next year and we make an appearance in the NIT for a year or two.


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[Caveat]

Xavier was fine when we had a coaching change while in the MCC or A-10. A coaching change in the Big East is a completely different animal. If Mack leaves, and I hope he doesn’t, I see our run of non losing conference seasons ending next year and we make an appearance in the NIT for a year or two.


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I’m very worried about the recruiting.

There are lots more A10 level players out there to build replacement classes from than there are BE level players.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Xavier was fine when we had a coaching change while in the MCC or A-10. A coaching change in the Big East is a completely different animal. If Mack leaves, and I hope he doesn’t, I see our run of non losing conference seasons ending next year and we make an appearance in the NIT for a year or two.


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Unless players transfer I think this may be a little dramatic. We'd really have to whiff on the hire for us to not make the tourney for 2 years with our roster.

I dont want to lose Mack and there is always a chance we miss on the hire and things get ugly but I think we will be ok.

[AviatorX]

Xavier was fine when we had a coaching change while in the MCC or A-10. A coaching change in the Big East is a completely different animal. If Mack leaves, and I hope he doesn’t, I see our run of non losing conference seasons ending next year and we make an appearance in the NIT for a year or two.


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Lol. Did this happen to Butler last season?

[Xville]

Xavier was fine when we had a coaching change while in the MCC or A-10. A coaching change in the Big East is a completely different animal. If Mack leaves, and I hope he doesnÂ’t, I see our run of non losing conference seasons ending next year and we make an appearance in the NIT for a year or two.


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While the w-l statement might be true, I think it would have more to do with personnel than the difference between Mack and the next coach ability. That and the inability for Mack to close on anyone substantial for this year recruiting wise.

[muethibp]

I think the nail on the coffin was him striking out on his next class. He went for some big time guys and missed on them all. I think that convinced Mack that he may have maxed Xavier out.

It cuts two ways against him staying. There's the "I just don't know if we can recruit the way I want to at Xavier issue." And there's also "things are going to be rough around here, what am I sticking around for?"

[X Factor]

Mack didn't do X any favors by signing a terrible recruiting class this year, although who knows if they would stay committed anyways.

Mack signed the 6th best class....in the Big East. I'm sorry, that won't get it done.

[OTRMUSKIE]

If we keep the current players X will not be kNITing. If we lose the current players then yes it could be very bad. However if we can get a defensive coach or asst I think next year X will have a decent run. Every year we have this discussion and every year X does just fine if not better. We will be fine.

[AviatorX]

Also worth noting there is going to be a HUGE talent drain in the BE this offseason. Everyone is reloading and I’ll take X’s core toward the top.

Not sure why everyone is assuming the whole team is going to transfer.

[markchal]

I am not sure even Mack would've been able to take this team to the NCAA tournament next year, so we definitely won't be if we're letting Steele or whoever learn on the job. I fully expect to be back the next year, though.

[X Factor]

Lol. Did this happen to Butler last season?

Butler also had their own Tre in Kelan Martin, a big time scorer and first team all-conference player. Martin had a slightly better effeciency rating than Trevon and rebounded a littler better.

Xavier won't have anyone that can score like that next year. Huge difference.

Watch Butler next year; they're going to stink.

[AviatorX]

I’d be shocked if X’s roster remains intact and they don’t make the tournament next season.

Probably a 7-11 seed, but definitely in the field. The Goodin/Naji/Scruggs core is being underestimated. We haven’t even seen what the latter two will look like after a full offseason.

Do people pay attention to what bubble resumes look like?

[AviatorX]

Butler also had their own Tre in Kelan Martin, a big time scorer and first team all-conference player. Martin had a slightly better effeciency rating than Trevon and rebounded a littler better.

Xavier won't have anyone that can score like that next year. Huge difference.

Watch Butler next year; they're going to stink.

Yeah, I’m basically never going to project Butler to suck. Been down that road before.

[xavierj]

I am not sure even Mack would've been able to take this team to the NCAA tournament next year, so we definitely won't be if we're letting Steele or whoever learn on the job. I fully expect to be back the next year, though.

Xavier will be in the tournament next year unless people transfer out. It won’t be close. They will have some guys that will be studs. Expect huge jumps from year 1 to 2 for the three freshman. They will have at least 2 NBA guys on the team next year.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I’d be shocked if X’s roster remains intact and they don’t make the tournament next season.

Probably a 7-11 seed, but definitely in the field. The Goodin/Naji/Scruggs core is being underestimated. We haven’t even seen what the latter two will look like after a full offseason.

Do people pay attention to what bubble resumes look like?

Completely agree. I was thinking anywhere from 6-11 seed next year.

When looking into future seasons people look at how players currently are/were in their current roles, etc. If we know anything as X fans its how well players progress in our program.

[smileyy]

Probably a 7-11 seed, but definitely in the field. The Goodin/Naji/Scruggs core is being underestimated. We haven’t even seen what the latter two will look like after a full offseason.


And what they look like having to carry more of the scoring load.

I learned from Banners on the Parkway that both Goodin and Scruggs were recovering from injuries over the summer, preventing them from working on jump shots. A healthy summer of jumpers could change a lot for them.

[AviatorX]

And what they look like having to carry more of the scoring load.

I learned from Banners on the Parkway that both Goodin and Scruggs were recovering from injuries over the summer, preventing them from working on jump shots. A healthy summer of jumpers could change a lot for them.

Agree. I am very excited about building around Goodin/Scruggs/Naji. That is a very good core - no arguing that really unless you’re being dense.

[XUBison]

If it’s true that X is offering Mack $3M plus, then we need to start thinking bigger than an assistant. Only Cal is making more than $3M in the SEC. Frank Martin makes $2.8M at SC. Bobby Hurley just got a 700K raise to $2.1M at ASU. With the right money, X has to be a more desirable hoops destination than most so-called power programs. Let Steele sew his oats at a quality mid-major, then maybe he can be our next next coach. Just saying... love me some Frank Martin. Time to think big people!

[smileyy]

Archie Miller and IU really (*$#ed Xavier with his $3.35M/yr contract. If that's Archie Miller money, then what's Chris Mack money?

[bjf123]

If it’s true that X is offering Mack $3M plus, then we need to start thinking bigger than an assistant. Only Cal is making more than $3M in the SEC. Frank Martin makes $2.8M at SC. Bobby Hurley just got a 700K raise to $2.1M at ASU. With the right money, X has to be a more desirable hoops destination than most so-called power programs. Let Steele sew his oats at a quality mid-major, then maybe he can be our next next coach. Just saying... love me some Frank Martin. Time to think big people!

If X really is offering Chris $3MM, I think the odds he stays go up a little. Still not a definite, but better.


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[RetireFiftyTu]

Everything seems to be pointing to Mack leaving. I would like to be pleasantly surprised but lets face it, the writing is on the wall. As for what's next:

I would expect Steele to be the favorite to get the job. If anyone on the current staff gets the job it will be Steele. He is the Associate Head Coach for a reason. That said, I would imagine Murray and Pegues would get an interview as well. Seems like the thing to do. Murray has been mentioned as a serious candidate for the Loyola Maryland Head Coaching position. Steele withdrew from the Evansville job and HoopDirt.com has heard Steele and Ryan Odom (UMBC) as the two names he has heard most for Middle Tennessee. Middle Tennessee would be a pretty darn good mid-major job. I hope Steele doesn't bolt before we know the final outcome of Mack/Louisville. If Murray and Pegues don't get their own jobs they would probably go to Louisville with Mack. Louisville can pay their assistant coaches more. That's enough of a reason. Mario would most certainly stay at Xavier. He graduated from X in 2003 per his bio on goxavier.com and also got his MBA here at X. He has worked with Prosser, Matta, Miller, and Mack at Xavier and has pretty much been one of the four consistent things at Xavier over the last 15 years with Tom Eiser, Sister Rose, and Fr. Graham being the others (your opinion of Fr. Graham is up to you). Mario is also team Nike and Louisville is an Adidas school. He has been damn good at his job and has had a huge hand in Xavier's sustained success IMO. Jeremy Growe (DOBO) would figure to have a decent shot at an assistant coach position should Steele get the job. He's been with X for 6 or 7 years I believe.

Probably the most mentioned candidates for the job by fans will be:
Steele
Pat Kelsey (former Xavier player and assistant, current Winthrop Head Coach)
John Brannen (NKU Head Coach, former Associate HC at Alabama)
Ashley Howard (former Xavier assistant, current Villanova assistant)
Thad Matta ---- Not a legitimate candidate IMO. Exit from X was too ugly.
Sean Miller ---- Slightly more likely than Matta and Sean would probably have interest but I just don't think X would hire him all things considered.
Other names I've seen fellow X fans throw out there:
Eric Musselman (Nevada HC), John Becker (Vermont HC), Buzz Williams (VT HC), Chris Collins (Northwestern HC), and Frank Martin (SC HC).

On the surface, I would want Steele to get the job. He's been at Xavier for 10 seasons. Everyone says he's will prepared and more than ready. Apparently he is a great offensive mind. Perhaps most importantly, the transition would be the smoothest. He would keep the roster intact better than anyone.
Steele was the main recruiter for: Scruggs, Goodin, Dontarius James, and Jake Walter plus 2019 commit Samari Curtis. Murray was the guy for Jones and Keonte Kennedy and Pegues was the guy for Naji, Kaiser, and Harden. I would expect Steele to be the favorite but Xavier would be dumb for not doing their due diligence and conducting a thorough search. Similar to what they did with Mack.

[XUBison]

Everything seems to be pointing to Mack leaving. I would like to be pleasantly surprised but lets face it, the writing is on the wall. As for what's next:

I would expect Steele to be the favorite to get the job. If anyone on the current staff gets the job it will be Steele. He is the Associate Head Coach for a reason. That said, I would imagine Murray and Pegues would get an interview as well. Seems like the thing to do. Murray has been mentioned as a serious candidate for the Loyola Maryland Head Coaching position. Steele withdrew from the Evansville job and HoopDirt.com has heard Steele and Ryan Odom (UMBC) as the two names he has heard most for Middle Tennessee. Middle Tennessee would be a pretty darn good mid-major job. I hope Steele doesn't bolt before we know the final outcome of Mack/Louisville. If Murray and Pegues don't get their own jobs they would probably go to Louisville with Mack. Louisville can pay their assistant coaches more. That's enough of a reason. Mario would most certainly stay at Xavier. He graduated from X in 2003 per his bio on goxavier.com and also got his MBA here at X. He has worked with Prosser, Matta, Miller, and Mack at Xavier and has pretty much been one of the two consistent things at Xavier over the last 15 years with Fr. Graham being the other (your opinion of Fr. Graham is up to you). Mario is also team Nike and Louisville is an Adidas school. He has been damn good at his job and has had a huge hand in Xavier's sustained success IMO. Jeremy Growe (DOBO) would figure to have a decent shot at an assistant coach position should Steele get the job. He's been with X for 6 or 7 years I believe.

Probably the most mentioned candidates for the job by fans will be:
Steele
Pat Kelsey (former Xavier player and assistant, current Winthrop Head Coach)
John Brannen (NKU Head Coach, former Associate HC at Alabama)
Ashley Howard (former Xavier assistant, current Villanova assistant)
Thad Matta ---- Not a legitimate candidate IMO. Exit from X was too ugly.
Sean Miller ---- Slightly more likely than Matta and Sean would probably have interest but I just don't think X would hire him all things considered.
Other names I've seen fellow X fans throw out there:
Eric Musselman (Nevada HC), John Becker (Vermont HC), Buzz Williams (VT HC), Chris Collins (Northwestern HC), and Frank Martin (SC HC).

On the surface, I would want Steele to get the job. He's been at Xavier for 10 seasons. Everyone says he's will prepared and more than ready. Apparently he is a great offensive mind. Perhaps most importantly, the transition would be the smoothest. He would keep the roster intact better than anyone.
Steele was the main recruiter for: Scruggs, Goodin, Dontarius James, and Jake Walter plus 2019 commit Samari Curtis. Murray was the guy for Jones and Keonte Kennedy and Pegues was the guy for Naji, Kaiser, and Harden. I would expect Steele to be the favorite but Xavier would be dumb for not doing their due diligence and conducting a thorough search. Similar to what they did with Mack.

Well, now there’s no reason for anyone to read the previous 53 pages of this thread.

[SemajParlor]

Completely agree. I was thinking anywhere from 6-11 seed next year.

Hello Darkness, my old friend.

But in seriousness I agree and I think we'll be fine. I just KNOW we'll be fine with Mack.

[SemajParlor]

Good post Retire Fifty Tu. I'd have no reason believe you aren't the brains behind the Retire Fifty Tu twitter page handle, and it's one of my favorites to browse for XU takes - so public props to you.


FWIW I don't want Frank Martin. He's a great coach but I'm just a personal fan of that style. Cough cough Mick Cronin.

[XUBison]

So we’ll be competing with Loyola MD and Mid Tenn St for our next coach? Enough said. If this is the case, then X has certainly outgrown the notion of hiring someone with no head coaching experience. Hope we wise up before turning the keys to the Buick over to an assistant. Let the kids learn to drive the old Tercel first.

[Xville]

Not sure what would piss me off more. Kentucky getting to a final four with one of the easiest paths known to man, or Loyola or Nevada getting to a final four before Xavier. I’m half rooting for Loyola, and half pissed off that they have a chance at a final four this year still and x doesn’t

[BMoreX]

So we’ll be competing with Loyola MD and Mid Tenn St for our next coach? Enough said. If this is the case, then X has certainly outgrown the notion of hiring someone with no head coaching experience. Hope we wise up before turning the keys to the Buick over to an assistant. Let the kids learn to drive the old Tercel first.

You seem to forget Xavier’s last TWO head coaches never held a head coach of position before manning the sidelines at X.

[XUBison]

Not sure what would piss me off more. Kentucky getting to a final four with one of the easiest paths known to man, or Loyola or Nevada getting to a final four before Xavier. I’m half rooting for Loyola, and half pissed off that they have a chance at a final four this year still and x doesn’t

Have to go with UK. I have as much F4 envy as anyone, but I can’t hate on Nevada or Loyola.

[XUBison]

You seem to forget Xavier’s last TWO head coaches never held a head coach of position before manning the sidelines at X.

Ummm... Nope.

[murray87]

Did I miss the presser where Mack announced he's going to Hookerville? I think he's staying. Just my homer gut talking perhaps but I think there's more to him than just another bucket of cash.

[X Factor]

I don't think it's an automatic Xavier will make the NCAA Tournament next year. Last year, Xavier BARELY made the tournament (last team in), and that was with JP Macura and Trevon Bluiett as juniors, Edmond Sumner for 22 games, Malcolm Bernard, etc.

Next year, we're going to have a bunch of sophmores and juniors with Kaiser Gates, who was probably the most disappointing player this past year.

IF X makes the tournament, it will be a heck of an accomplishment. I have a hard time seeing it though.

[X Factor]

Did I miss the presser where Mack announced he's going to Hookerville? I think he's staying. Just my homer gut talking perhaps but I think there's more to him than just another bucket of cash.

Be prepared to be wrong.

[GoMuskies]

Not sure what would piss me off more. Kentucky getting to a final four with one of the easiest paths known to man, or Loyola or Nevada getting to a final four before Xavier. I’m half rooting for Loyola, and half pissed off that they have a chance at a final four this year still and x doesn’t

Loyola has already won a national title.

[smileyy]

Put me on *gag* team Kentucky I guess

[OTRMUSKIE]

People feel like X has a right to the final 4. Just because Loyola makes a final 4 or Nevada does shouldn’t piss you off. Those schools will end up sucking or being avg at best for the next 30 years. Talk to VCU, George Mason and even our own Butler. They all made it before X and other then Butler non of them have done much since making it that far. X will get there but it’s going to happen when you least expected it to. I say go Loyola and I hope they win the whole thing.

[Xville]

People feel like X has a right to the final 4. Just because Loyola makes a final 4 or Nevada does shouldn’t piss you off. Those schools will end up sucking or being avg at best for the next 30 years. Talk to VCU, George Mason and even our own Butler. They all made it before X and other then Butler non of them have done much since making it that far. X will get there but it’s going to happen when you least expected it to. I say go Loyola and I hope they win the whole thing.

Well, it does piss me off... I will tell you what doesn’t piss me off...those Nevada cheerleaders. Yowza

[OTRMUSKIE]

Give the job to Steele and tell Luke he can have the job in 8 years once Steele leaves then tell the next guy........ Ifwe can’t keep Mack then who the hell is going to stay here? I still think Mack stays and if he does leave I look forward to watching him lead Louisville. I think he will be avg at best, kind of like a skip Prosser at Wake. He will have good years and bad years. But hey you got paid braj!!!!

[Xville]

Loyola has already won a national title.

Yeah I kinda forgot that but that was a much different time...that was what 1960? Basketball had barely been invented then :)

[RetireFiftyTu]

Good post Retire Fifty Tu. I'd have no reason believe you aren't the brains behind the Retire Fifty Tu twitter page handle, and it's one of my favorites to browse for XU takes - so public props to you.


FWIW I don't want Frank Martin. He's a great coach but I'm just a personal fan of that style. Cough cough Mick Cronin.

It is indeed me from the twitter machine. Don't post on this board a whole lot but am a frequent browser. And I agree wouldn't want Martin. Pretty much none of the current coaches at high major schools would get my interest besides maybe Buzz Williams. I've talked myself into Steele. I'm sold on him.

[GoMuskies]

Let's hire Moser or Musselman. Whoever wins.

[Caveat]

Bringing in a new coach means starting at ground zero with recruiting.

You better be damn sure that you’re getting a guy significantly better than what you have in Steele (or even Luke Murray — who i have heard nothing but good things about). Xavier has kept in-house for two straight hires and all they’ve done is build the program to where it is today and land themselves gigs at major programs.

Meanwhile, how has Shaka Smart looked at Texas?

[D-West & PO-Z]

I don't think it's an automatic Xavier will make the NCAA Tournament next year. Last year, Xavier BARELY made the tournament (last team in), and that was with JP Macura and Trevon Bluiett as juniors, Edmond Sumner for 22 games, Malcolm Bernard, etc.

Next year, we're going to have a bunch of sophmores and juniors with Kaiser Gates, who was probably the most disappointing player this past year.

IF X makes the tournament, it will be a heck of an accomplishment. I have a hard time seeing it though.

We were not the last team in. We were at worst the 5th to last team in.

[LadyMuskie]

Give the job to Steele and tell Luke he can have the job in 8 years once Steele leaves then tell the next guy........ Ifwe can’t keep Mack then who the hell is going to stay here? I still think Mack stays and if he does leave I look forward to watching him lead Louisville. I think he will be avg at best, kind of like a skip Prosser at Wake. He will have good years and bad years. But hey you got paid braj!!!!

I said earlier to my friend that if Mack leaves I wish him the same success Miller has had at Arizona, Skip had at Wake, and Pete had at UVA. Thad is the outlier here, but even he never reached the promised land. In other words, nothing horrible, but nothing super fantastic either. We'll call it . . . the You Thought You Could Do Better Than Xavier, But What's Good Now? Curse.

[xavierj]

Wrap your arms around this. Little old Xavier, Private school, is offering an hometown alumn, over $3 million to stay on as coach. A coach who hasn’t reached a final 4, and lost in 2nd round as 1 and 2 seed, and the guy is going to scoff at that and leave? Wow Good stuff....

[GIMMFD]

It is indeed me from the twitter machine. Don't post on this board a whole lot but am a frequent browser. And I agree wouldn't want Martin. Pretty much none of the current coaches at high major schools would get my interest besides maybe Buzz Williams. I've talked myself into Steele. I'm sold on him.

After watching Buzz Williams dance on the Flying WV to Country Roads after a game, I can't stand that prick, I would hate everything in the world if he were our next head coach.

[Xville]

Wrap your arms around this. Little old Xavier, Private school, is offering an hometown alumn, over $3 million to stay on as coach. A coach who hasn’t reached a final 4, and lost in 2nd round as 1 and 2 seed, and the guy is going to scoff at that and leave? Wow Good stuff....

All those things you mentioned, on top of having crappy defenses, being 1-10 against nova, a crappy conference tourney record are all reasons for why Mack is replaceable. He’s a good coach, nothing more in my opinion.

[AviatorX]

All those things you mentioned, on top of having crappy defenses, being 1-10 against nova, a crappy conference tourney record are all reasons for why Mack is replaceable. He’s a good coach, nothing more in my opinion.

We get it. You don't like Mack.

[GoMuskies]

After watching Buzz Williams dance on the Flying WV to Country Roads after a game, I can't stand that prick, I would hate everything in the world if he were our next head coach.

Hmm, that makes me like him. A lot.

[XUFan09]

After watching Buzz Williams dance on the Flying WV to Country Roads after a game, I can't stand that prick, I would hate everything in the world if he were our next head coach.Most overblown thing ever.

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[Xville]

Alright eff it I’m on the Loyola bandwagon. Please beat uk...please.

[paulxu]

Wandered into this thread, and now am really confused.

Is this the Fire Mack thread?
The keep Mack thread?
The he's the best coach we've ever had thread?
He's not a good coach at all thread?

I'm going to get some more popcorn...and bourbon.

[LadyMuskie]

Wandered into this thread, and now am really confused.

Is this the Fire Mack thread?
The keep Mack thread?
The he's the best coach we've ever had thread?
He's not a good coach at all thread?

I'm going to get some more popcorn...and bourbon.

Correct.

[GIMMFD]

Most overblown thing ever.

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Considering he came out to Country Roads the following year and is now the head coach of Virginia Tech, I hate him, I never said anybody else had to, I just do personally.

[XUFan09]

Considering he came out to Country Roads the following year and is now the head coach of Virginia Tech, I hate him, I never said anybody else had to, I just do personally.Lol great troll job after the biggest overreaction ever. WVU fans deserved that.

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[D-West & PO-Z]

Let's hire Moser or Musselman. Whoever wins.

I was thinking SLU really shit the bed when they handed the reins to Jim Crews when Majerus passed instead of Porter Moser, but I think Moser may have left for Loyola one year prior.

[JTG]

All those things you mentioned, on top of having crappy defenses, being 1-10 against nova, a crappy conference tourney record are all reasons for why Mack is replaceable. He’s a good coach, nothing more in my opinion.

Are you the guy who got punked by Mack in college, and is still butthurt about it ? Or just another my second fav team is UL, and my third team is blah,blah, and "Oh, I like so and so, too" guy ?

[Xville]

Are you the guy who got punked by Mack in college, and is still butthurt about it ? Or just another my second fav team is UL, and my third team is blah,blah, and "Oh, I like so and so, too" guy ?

Just don’t think he is the best thing since sliced bread that a lot do here, that’s all. Good coach, nothing special. Not a Louisville fan, just live here and don’t understand what that has to do with anything.

But since you asked, I’m also a Mizzou fan (so I’m a fan of two teams who have a lot of tourney victories without a final four) due to both my parents graduating from there and growing up in St. Louis. I hope that’s ok with you.

[X Factor]

Are you the guy who got punked by Mack in college, and is still butthurt about it ? Or just another my second fav team is UL, and my third team is blah,blah, and "Oh, I like so and so, too" guy ?

Not everyone has to have a man crush on Mack. Honestly, I was way more nervous and worried about the future of Xavier basketball when Sean left.

I would love for Mack to stick around, but it's not looking that way. Continuity is very important though and Mack is an excellent coach.

However, Xville brings up some good points. Mack has led a 1 seed and 2 seed into the tournament and flamed out both times. It's a foregone conclusion Xavier is getting waxed by 20 points every time we play Villanova. And honestly, Mack is from the Skip Prosser coaching tree. Mack has been way more successful than Skip was, but Mack doesn't preach and teach defense in the same way as Skip.

Those are just a few counterpoints.

[XUBison]

Considering he came out to Country Roads the following year and is now the head coach of Virginia Tech, I hate him, I never said anybody else had to, I just do personally.


Well, that‘s because you’re right. Buzz Williams is a prickly prick, and an over-rated one to boot. The guy who had questionable recruiting and trash academics on his Marquette teams? Then trashed Marquette and the Big East on his way out, to leave for the greener pastures of... Virginia Tech? Any supposed fan of a Big East team who doesn’t understand the suckiness of Buzz is either uninformed, or an absolute idiot. Somebody posted earlier that Buzz is the only “power” conference coach that would be acceptable for X to pursue. I have honestly never called someone this before, but what a douche.

[Xavier]

While I get losing early as a 1/2 seed was tough but tossing out the fact that Mack brought the program to a point where we got a 1 and a 2 in a three year span, with an elite 8 in between, is extremely silly. Jay wright was known as a flame out for awhile, too. Mack got the program to a point where we can get top seeds- and like Jay- if given the time he would push through to a final four IMO.

[AviatorX]

Calling Mack "nothing special" is patently stupid. He's one of the top coaches in the game. There's no question he has taken the X program to its greatest highs, that's an inarguable fact. Throwing out losing early as a 1/2 seed while minimizing the amazing accomplishment it is to get this X program to that point is dishonest and baffling.

Seems special to me - what's the counterargument to that? His KenPom defensive efficiency average? Please.

[D-West & PO-Z]

While I get losing early as a 1/2 seed was tough but tossing out the fact that Mack brought the program to a point where we got a 1 and a 2 in a three year span, with an elite 8 in between, is extremely silly. Jay wright was known as a flame out for awhile, too. Mack got the program to a point where we can get top seeds- and like Jay- if given the time he would push through to a final four IMO.


Calling Mack "nothing special" is patently stupid. He's one of the top coaches in the game. There's no question he has taken the X program to its greatest highs, that's an inarguable fact. Throwing out losing early as a 1/2 seed while minimizing the amazing accomplishment it is to get this X program to that point is dishonest and baffling.

Seems special to me - what's the counterargument to that? His KenPom defensive efficiency average? Please.

+1

[Xville]

Calling Mack "nothing special" is patently stupid. He's one of the top coaches in the game. There's no question he has taken the X program to its greatest highs, that's an inarguable fact. Throwing out losing early as a 1/2 seed while minimizing the amazing accomplishment it is to get this X program to that point is dishonest and baffling.

Seems special to me - what's the counterargument to that? His KenPom defensive efficiency average? Please.

At the point Miller had left the program and with the resources that Xavier has as a pure basketball school, I think there are others who could have accomplished what Mack has done. The Xavier program is bigger than its coach, that’s been proven over the past 15 years.

while it’s nice we won a reg season championship, Mack is 1-10 against nova and not just 1-10 but 1-assraped.

And yes to me, defense matters because it’s half the game and Mack’s teams don’t value it. Championships are won by teams in top 20 in both o and d and that’s the goal right?

Lastly, college basketball is a postseason sport. That is what coaches and teams are measured by, and to that extent no Mack has not taken x to new highs.

For you to say he’s one of the top coaches in the game is patently stupid to me.

Oh and btw why is it a foregone conclusion for some of you that Mack will take this team to a final four if he stays here? Jay wright did it in his 8th year, next year would be Mack’s 10th. Just how long should we wait for this to inevitably happen. It’s just as much a foregone conclusion that he has maxed out his potential, as it is he will get a final four here.

[XUBison]

Well, that‘s because you’re right. Buzz Williams is a prickly prick, and an over-rated one to boot. The guy who had questionable recruiting and trash academics on his Marquette teams? Then trashed Marquette and the Big East on his way out, to leave for the greener pastures of... Virginia Tech? Any supposed fan of a Big East team who doesn’t understand the suckiness of Buzz is either uninformed, or an absolute idiot. Somebody posted earlier that Buzz is the only “power” conference coach that would be acceptable for X to pursue. I have honestly never called someone this before, but what a douche.

Buzz is a douche for sure, but to be clear, my first ever douche comment was directed squarely at the poster who suggested that Buzz is the only major conference team possibly worth X’s time to pursue should Mack leave.

[AviatorX]

At the point Miller had left the program and with the resources that Xavier has as a pure basketball school, I think there are others who could have accomplished what Mack has done. The Xavier program is bigger than its coach, that’s been proven over the past 15 years.

Lastly, while it’s nice we won a reg season championship, Mack is 1-10 against nova and not just 1-10 but 1-assraped.

Why are you so fixated on the head to head vs Nova? Is that seriously that high up your list of priorities? X won the BE outright and got a 1 seed while losing to Nova twice in case you forgot.

No one is saying the program isn't bigger than a coach. All we're saying is it is dumb/insane/untrue to say that Mack isn't a great coach.

PS - I'll beat you to the punch: yes I would like to beat Nova, but I think Xavier could lose to them 100 straight times and it would have no impact (outside a game in the conference standings obviously) on the long term goals of the program.

[letskeepitreal]

I was surprised that some of these coaching vacancies filled so fast. If Mack leaves and Travis Steele doesn’t get the job, would’ve loved to have X at least talked to either Hurley bro. Never liked Crean so no loss. What about Musselman from Nevada?

[coasterville95]

Ok, we all know we can’t hope to compete with Louisville if they decide to send the Brinks truck to Chris Mack’s home, much less sending a second Brinks truck to Xavier to pay any buyout clause.

So, we have to be creative. Insist that if they take Mack, they have to take our in arena promotions guy!!

Their AD would spend 30 seconds with that insufferable fool and say it’s not worth it to get Mack.

Plan!

[AviatorX]

At the point Miller had left the program and with the resources that Xavier has as a pure basketball school, I think there are others who could have accomplished what Mack has done. The Xavier program is bigger than its coach, that’s been proven over the past 15 years.

while it’s nice we won a reg season championship, Mack is 1-10 against nova and not just 1-10 but 1-assraped.

And yes to me, defense matters because it’s half the game and Mack’s teams don’t value it. Championships are won by teams in top 20 in both o and d and that’s the goal right?

Lastly, college basketball is a postseason sport. That is what coaches and teams are measured by, and to that extent no Mack has not taken x to new highs.

For you to say he’s one of the top coaches in the game is patently stupid to me.

Lol. Looks like its you vs me and pretty much the entire college basketball world. Love to see your list of the top 15-20 coaches.

By your logic Miller didn't take the team to new heights. I presume you're a big Thad Matta guy.

[Xavier]

Why are you so fixated on the head to head vs Nova? .

“It’s a postseason sport, who cares about 1/2 seed and winning big east championship”

“He is 1-10 against nova!!!”

Wait, does regular season matter or not? Only when it proves his point. 🙄

[Backyard Champ]

One if the worst parts about when a coach may leave, are when all the morons come out saying that said coach is no good anyway. Maybe it's how they cope?

Both Miller and Mack are some of the best coaches in the game, no question about it.

[AviatorX]

“It’s a postseason sport, who cares about 1/2 seed and winning big east championship”

“He is 1-10 against nova!!!”

Wait, does regular season matter or not? Only when it proves his point. ��

Haha, well put. Also like his dismissal of the regular season BE title (only actual "new heights" if we're being literal between either Mack or Miller) because of a head to head vs a team that played an identical slate with a worse record. Great stuff.

[dubbledxu]

Unless players transfer I think this may be a little dramatic. We'd really have to whiff on the hire for us to not make the tourney for 2 years with our roster.

I dont want to lose Mack and there is always a chance we miss on the hire and things get ugly but I think we will be ok.

Did you watch the FSU game with Tre, Naji, and JP on the bench? Scruggs, Gates, Goodin on the floor at the same time we’re a TOUGH watch.


Lol. Did this happen to Butler last season?

Like other said, Kelan Martin covered a lot of their wounds.


If Mack does intend to leave, it may say more about Xavier administration than it does say abt Mack. We will be VERY interested to hear what was offered. This would be Christopher’s first big hire too.

[AviatorX]

Did you watch the FSU game with Tre, Naji, and JP on the bench? Scruggs, Gates, Goodin on the floor at the same time we’re a TOUGH watch.



Like other said, Kelan Martin covered a lot of their wounds.


If Mack does intend to leave, it may say more about Xavier administration than it does say abt Mack. We will be VERY interested to hear what was offered. This would be Christopher’s first big hire too.

Xavier can't match Louisville's money. I'm not sure why that's so confusing to some. Xavier's best offer is short of Louisville's offer from a money perspective. Not to mention Louisville is clearly a better basketball program. It's pretty simple, honestly. Over the last ten years, X's growth has made the beginning of this paragraph true about fewer and fewer programs, but Louisville will always be one of them.

Plenty of time to talk about next year's roster, but I think it's pretty dumb to judge them on one stretch against what's proving to be a somewhat tricky FSU team especially when that group hadn't played together all year. Also the guy who figures to be the team's best player and leading scorer was hobbled/not playing. People keepsciting to that 8 minutes as if X is going to roll out the same game plan with a totally different roster and hope it works. It's just dumb.

[Xville]

Why are you so fixated on the head to head vs Nova? Is that seriously that high up your list of priorities? X won the BE outright and got a 1 seed while losing to Nova twice in case you forgot.

No one is saying the program isn't bigger than a coach. All we're saying is it is dumb/insane/untrue to say that Mack isn't a great coach.

PS - I'll beat you to the punch: yes I would like to beat Nova, but I think Xavier could lose to them 100 straight times and it would have no impact (outside a game in the conference standings obviously) on the long term goals of the program.

I’m fixated because they are the one elite team in the conference and Mack’s teams have trouble even being competitive. That’s an issue when you are most likely going to have to beat 1 elite team to get to a final four/championship, unless the region opens up like it has for uk

[dubbledxu]

Xavier can't match Louisville's money. I'm not sure why that's so confusing to some. Xavier's best offer is short of Louisville's offer from a money perspective. Not to mention Louisville is clearly a better basketball program. It's pretty simple, honestly. Over the last ten years, X's growth has made the beginning of this paragraph true about fewer and fewer programs, but Louisville will always be one of them.

Plenty of time to talk about next year's roster, but I think it's pretty dumb to judge them on one stretch against what's proving to be a somewhat tricky FSU team especially when that group hadn't played together all year. Also the guy who figures to be the team's best player and leading scorer was hobbled/not playing. People keepsciting to that 8 minutes as if X is going to roll out the same game plan with a totally different roster and hope it works. It's just dumb.

I was simply refuting the thinking that we are a tourney lock and a possible 6-11 seed next year. PLENTY of work to do, and that’s assuming everyone stays.

And nowhere did I say anything about matching ULs offer. If they offer $5M per and we only offer $2.5, that says more abt our administration than it does Mack’s commitment to his hometown/team. Especially after we saw what RI offered Hurley today. If X wants to stop being the launching pad to bigger jobs, we need to at least make be making competitive offers. X offering 3.5+ and being turned down feels a lot different than offering 2.5 and getting turned down.

[AviatorX]

I’m fixated because they are the one elite team in the conference and Mack’s teams have trouble even being competitive. That’s an issue when you are most likely going to have to beat 1 elite team to get to a final four/championship, unless the region opens up like it has for uk

The only thing the Nova series tells me is X struggles to play with Nova. I think reading anything more into it is rather ambitious.

[Xville]

Did you watch the FSU game with Tre, Naji, and JP on the bench? Scruggs, Gates, Goodin on the floor at the same time we’re a TOUGH watch.



Like other said, Kelan Martin covered a lot of their wounds.


If Mack does intend to leave, it may say more about Xavier administration than it does say abt Mack. We will be VERY interested to hear what was offered. This would be Christopher’s first big hire too.

Martin was a three star, they develop their players like we do. Butler will be fine. You’d think by now that we would stop doubting them. Something in the water up there.

[Xville]

The only thing the Nova series tells me is X struggles to play with Nova. I think reading anything more into it is rather ambitious.

Whatever fits your argument :)

[OTRMUSKIE]

Mack is gone. Heard it at the oak. So it’s true. Also do we still want X to have its own Mark Few? We need our own Hamilton!!!

[AviatorX]

Whatever fits your argument :)

Well played.

For what it's worth, I enjoy our back and forth even if there's been a lot of them lately. You clearly know college ball.

[xu82]

Mack is gone. Heard it at the oak. So it’s true. Also do we still want X to have its own Mark Few? We need our own Hamilton!!!

So is a drunk in a bar as reliable as the internet? Double confirmation! It must be true!

(Or false.)


:-)

[xavierj]

Did you watch the FSU game with Tre, Naji, and JP on the bench? Scruggs, Gates, Goodin on the floor at the same time we’re a TOUGH watch.



Like other said, Kelan Martin covered a lot of their wounds.


If Mack does intend to leave, it may say more about Xavier administration than it does say abt Mack. We will be VERY interested to hear what was offered. This would be Christopher’s first big hire too.

Xavier is offering to make him highest paid coach in the big east, a new basketball locker room, a new practice facility and all of the Cintas upgrades. For a small private school without football, they are doing more than what they can.

[gladdenguy]

Mack wants to go, fine. He coached a terrible game and lost to a team he had no business losing too. It was awful satisfying to beat Sean last year to go to an elite 8. But beating Mack and Hookerville would be ten times more satisfying.

Feel terrible for Naji, Q, Paul, Riq, Evan, Kaiser, Elias, Jake, Dontarius, and Keonte.

[GIMMFD]

Lol great troll job after the biggest overreaction ever. WVU fans deserved that.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

I mean this respectfully, and not trying to start an argument or anything, but that song and that tradition means something else to West Virginia fans. It means something more to us natives as a state. You may consider it something like the "Florida State tomahawk chant" or some shit like that, but in reality, we have no professional sports teams, we have nothing other than WVU, it's our soul, and usually those teams represent the "blue collar" workers that get after it everyday and grind, they usually have passion and heart in football and basketball. I understand how it can be seen as a over-reaction to other people, and I get how insufferable WVU fans in general are, hell I agree, they're a pain in the ass to deal with 90% of the time, but Buzz Williams is a douche. He is a decent enough coach, but one elite 8, and two S16s does not make him the best hire Xavier could get. Bolted after a 17-15 record with Marquette because he knew he was on a decline there for Virginia Tech where he could be comfortable, he doesn't relish in challenge. He knew that even getting VT to the tournament meant longevity for him. If you think he's great, and a phenomenal troll, that's your opinion and I respect it.

As for people saying Mack isn't that great it's pretty silly, he has seen a transition into a major conference and made us competitive, he is a damn good coach. He's for sure up there amongst the level of top 10-15, in Xs and Os, how many times have we seen his inbounds plays work?? Yes his defensive side of the game needs work, but how many coaches out there are perfect? Hell even Coach K before switching to a 2-3 zone had a team full of 5 stars that were getting TOASTED on the defensive end (honestly does anybody in college know how to break a 2-3 zone these days?? It's been miserable to watch this tournament in that regard), he's (Mack) not the greatest thing to walk this earth, but I sure as hell would be upset if he left us. I understand our next man up, things have worked for us mentality, but at the end of the day, we're not only losing a great coach, but a great mentor, a great alum, and someone who loves our school. It's hard to imagine anybody staying with us ever if Mack leaves.

[Xville]

Mack wants to go, fine. He coached a terrible game and lost to a team he had no business losing too. It was awful satisfying to beat Sean last year to go to an elite 8. But beating Mack and Hookerville would be ten times more satisfying.

Feel terrible for Naji, Q, Paul, Riq, Evan, Kaiser, Elias, Jake, Dontarius, and Keonte.

Do you have insider info to know he definitely wants to go? Asking because going to meet with Louisville is just that, seeing what they have to say. Maybe his mind is already made up but I’d think only his inner circle would know that.

[XUFan09]

I mean this respectfully, and not trying to start an argument or anything, but that song and that tradition means something else to West Virginia fans. It means something more to us natives as a state. You may consider it something like the "Florida State tomahawk chant" or some shit like that, but in reality, we have no professional sports teams, we have nothing other than WVU, it's our soul, and usually those teams represent the "blue collar" workers that get after it everyday and grind, they usually have passion and heart in football and basketball. I understand how it can be seen as a over-reaction to other people, and I get how insufferable WVU fans in general are, hell I agree, they're a pain in the ass to deal with 90% of the time, but Buzz Williams is a douche. He is a decent enough coach, but one elite 8, and two S16s does not make him the best hire Xavier could get. Bolted after a 17-15 record with Marquette because he knew he was on a decline there for Virginia Tech where he could be comfortable, he doesn't relish in challenge. He knew that even getting VT to the tournament meant longevity for him. If you think he's great, and a phenomenal troll, that's your opinion and I respect it.



I've lived in both Morgantown and Charleston and my wife is from Huntington. I'm very aware of the culture surrounding this stuff.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[GIMMFD]

I've lived in both Morgantown and Charleston and my wife is from Huntington. I'm very aware of the culture surrounding this stuff.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

I mean I knew that, we talked about how bad the Backyard Brawl would be at times, and trust me, I'm completely aware that the trolling is funny to the outside world. It just leaves a bad taste in your mouth. It's kind of like if UC would spray pain the D'Artagnan statue outside of Cintas. It's a rivalry gesture, shouldn't be blown out of proportion, but at the end of the day, still bothers you, you know?

[scoscox]

Give me porter moser if Mack leaves. Jesuit guy

[X Factor]

Give me porter moser if Mack leaves. Jesuit guy

The guy with the 225-211 career record...pass.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Mack is gone. Loyola is going to final 4 and Mark Few sucks. Meanwhile I just put in my resume to MND. I heard if you start there you can end up with millions.

[stammina0721]

Did I miss the presser where Mack announced he's going to Hookerville? I think he's staying. Just my homer gut talking perhaps but I think there's more to him than just another bucket of cash.

He's gone. If you made 1.7 million was offered 4 or 5 million and got countered with 3 your taking 4 or 5. Xavier cant pay Louisville money. If X offers 3 Louisville offers 4. If X offers 4 they offer 5. It's a losing battle and money always wins

[stammina0721]

Do you have insider info to know he definitely wants to go? Asking because going to meet with Louisville is just that, seeing what they have to say. Maybe his mind is already made up but I’d think only his inner circle would know that.

You don't meet unless you want to go. Do you see Mark Few "meeting" with teams? Like i said earlier it was fun while it lasted now it is next man up. I want a guy who has some international background because I think for X to get a final four we may need to start bringing in European talent that can develop over a year or 2

[stammina0721]

Not only that but if I am Mack im pissed at X a bit. I dont know who said it but someone said X is offering him 3 million per year. Idk if it is true but if it is then if I am Mack im thinking they were holding out on me. Why be loyal to the school that apparently wants me but didn't want to pay me what I am worth until another suitor comes calling?

[sirthought]

I never loved Mack as much as others here do, mostly due to things like defense and not calling timeouts when his team was struggling to find ways to score. But damn, if he hasn't won a lot of games here, even many that maybe they shouldn't have won. And his out of bounds plays are a sight to behold. He is a really good coach that I find is pretty likable overall.

What scares me most about him leaving is this: The Big East has people who I consider very solid coaches like Cooley, Willard, McDermot...heck I even thought Steve Lavin was a pretty good basketball mind...but those guys haven't won like Mack has. They struggle to meet expectations most years with teams that people think are going to make major marks and then make only minor ones. I usually think the players in the Big East are pretty athletic and have similar skill sets, so it must be the player development and system Mack uses to get the results.

Yeah, we could get another Matta, Miller, or Mack, but what if we get Willard or Wojo?

Mack's tenure in the Big East is only five years, but his W/L% ranks ninth out of all the guys who have coached in the league.


RkCoachFromToYrsGWLW-L%CREGCTRNNCAAFFNCSchool(s)
7Jay Wright2002201817583418165.717531321Villanova
9Chris Mack20142018517812553.70210500Xavier
16Kevin Ollie201320131302010.66700000UConn
21Greg McDermott20142018517110764.62600300Creighton
25Ed Cooley20122018723814494.60501500Providence
27LaVall Jordan201820181352114.60000100Butler
35Kevin Willard201120188264150114.56801300Seton Hall
39Steve Wojciechowski2015201841327359.55300100Marquette
51Patrick Ewing201820181301515.50000000Georgetown
67Chris Mullin201620183983860.38800000St. Johns (NY)

[throwbackmuskie]

It’s a meeting. They happen. Some of you guys crack me up.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[XUGRAD80]

Let’s put this into numbers that more of us can relate to....

If I’m making 175K a year in my hometown, and a company wants to talk to me about possibly doubling my salary, I’m going to listen to them. I might not be looking, but I’m going to listen. A company comes around and wants to triple my salary, not only am I going to listen to them, I’m going to give it a lot of consideration. But when my current hometown employer, whom I have a long and emotional history with, comes back an offers to give me a significant raise, I’m also going to have to give that great consideration. No matter what, my #1 group that I am loyal to is my family. I’ve got to do what feels right for me and my family first and foremost.

I have no idea how this is going to play out, but I firmly believe that Mack talking with them means nothing more than just that...he is going to talk with them and consider what they have to say. He owes it to his family to at least do that. But I don’t think it indicates anything more than that.

[coasterville95]

Meetings happen but they usually aren’t announced to the public unless there is some real traction already.

If you are Louisville, you don’t want to have it known if any coaches turn you down.

If you are Mack, you don’t want to go to the meeting just to turn them down. Might hurt your chances later down the road if you really do want another gig.

It’s usually a “I’ll have my people call your people” type of thing first. Then again, who knows - that first impression could go sideways on either side.

[dubbledxu]

What do you guys think will be covered in this meeting that Mack already doesn’t know about UL? He knows who the AD will be. He knows what range they’ll offer (if they haven’t offered already), he knows how they’ll travel, he knows what their facilities will look like, etc. I find it very hard to believe that his camp hasn’t been passed all this info already. Maybe he wants to work them for better incentives and more assistant pay, ok great. But why wait 3 days for it?

I think he’s just giving X time to get an offer or chase a replacement while enjoying being pursued a bit. And who could blame him, we’d all love that.

[atljar]

Let’s put this into numbers that more of us can relate to....

If I’m making 175K a year in my hometown, and a company wants to talk to me about possibly doubling my salary, I’m going to listen to them. I might not be looking, but I’m going to listen. A company comes around and wants to triple my salary, not only am I going to listen to them, I’m going to give it a lot of consideration. But when my current hometown employer, whom I have a long and emotional history with, comes back an offers to give me a significant raise, I’m also going to have to give that great consideration. No matter what, my #1 group that I am loyal to is my family. I’ve got to do what feels right for me and my family first and foremost.

I have no idea how this is going to play out, but I firmly believe that Mack talking with them means nothing more than just that...he is going to talk with them and consider what they have to say. He owes it to his family to at least do that. But I don’t think it indicates anything more than that.

I've read this entire thread, and this is the most logical post. We should just lock it here

[stammina0721]

Let’s put this into numbers that more of us can relate to....

If I’m making 175K a year in my hometown, and a company wants to talk to me about possibly doubling my salary, I’m going to listen to them. I might not be looking, but I’m going to listen. A company comes around and wants to triple my salary, not only am I going to listen to them, I’m going to give it a lot of consideration. But when my current hometown employer, whom I have a long and emotional history with, comes back an offers to give me a significant raise, I’m also going to have to give that great consideration. No matter what, my #1 group that I am loyal to is my family. I’ve got to do what feels right for me and my family first and foremost.

I have no idea how this is going to play out, but I firmly believe that Mack talking with them means nothing more than just that...he is going to talk with them and consider what they have to say. He owes it to his family to at least do that. But I don’t think it indicates anything more than that.

I'm sorry but I call your bluff. You said it yourself... The choice comes down to your family. They are well off at 175k a year. If XYZ comes and offers you 500k you are not considering you are flying at that job. 500k gives you a new lifestyle. 500k means after 5 years you have better 2.5 million as opposed to less than 1 million. If original company comes back and says how about 300k you are still going for 500k cause it puts your family in a better position. The difference between 300k and 500k is immense. And you are definitely taking not just considering if XYZ is a little over an hour away so you are still in contact with family and friends

[throwbackmuskie]

Not only that but if I am Mack im pissed at X a bit. I dont know who said it but someone said X is offering him 3 million per year. Idk if it is true but if it is then if I am Mack im thinking they were holding out on me. Why be loyal to the school that apparently wants me but didn't want to pay me what I am worth until another suitor comes calling?

just stop

[gladdenguy]

Not only that but if I am Mack im pissed at X a bit. I dont know who said it but someone said X is offering him 3 million per year. Idk if it is true but if it is then if I am Mack im thinking they were holding out on me. Why be loyal to the school that apparently wants me but didn't want to pay me what I am worth until another suitor comes calling?

Xavier making this offer should make you proud. They have done everything and more to keep Chris Mack. Simply not having the money that Hookerville (a state school) is just reality. I guarantee after the offer is made known Mack WILL be the most hated Xavier coach out of the last 6. Mack could be a very wealthy man from Xavier University with about half the stress of Hookerville. It's a shame when he said Xavier is a destination job he is going to inherit an absolute dumpster fire off the court and leave those closest to him.

[XUGRAD80]

Just because YOU think that the money is the #1 consideration, doesn’t mean that Mack does. The extra money also comes with more in the way of expectations, more in the way of demands on ones time, and a loss of privacy for yourself and your family. It’s not like they are going to give him more money and expect him to not do more than he has to do at X.

I would guess that performance expectations, time demands, extra parts of the job, etc. are all going to be parts of the discussions. It’s not going to just be about how much money they want to give him.

And let’s not forget that there are still FBI and NCAA investigations hanging over everything down there. No telling what he is going to find out about them.

[X Factor]

Let’s put this into numbers that more of us can relate to....

If I’m making 175K a year in my hometown, and a company wants to talk to me about possibly doubling my salary, I’m going to listen to them. I might not be looking, but I’m going to listen. A company comes around and wants to triple my salary, not only am I going to listen to them, I’m going to give it a lot of consideration. But when my current hometown employer, whom I have a long and emotional history with, comes back an offers to give me a significant raise, I’m also going to have to give that great consideration. No matter what, my #1 group that I am loyal to is my family. I’ve got to do what feels right for me and my family first and foremost.

I have no idea how this is going to play out, but I firmly believe that Mack talking with them means nothing more than just that...he is going to talk with them and consider what they have to say. He owes it to his family to at least do that. But I don’t think it indicates anything more than that.

You're in the very, very small minority who thinks this meeting means nothing more than listening to what UofL has to say. There are people with actual sources close to these programs who are saying this is a done deal.

[jhelmes37]

Where there's smoke, there's fire.

With the Cal situation, I didn't hear anyone saying it was a "done deal".

With this situation, most people think it is.

Next Man Up............

[AviatorX]

It’s a meeting. They happen. Some of you guys crack me up.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Except they honestly don't in coaching searches unless things are pretty much buttoned up...

It would be a disaster for Louisville if this fell through at this point.

[GoMuskies]

Here in Wichita we had the very public Alabama/Gregg Marshall courtship. It's not the most likely scenario, but maybe this will turn out the same.

Hell, maybe Tyra will meet Chris and decide he can't stand him and wouldn't want Chris working for him. Never know! I hear from reliable sources that Mack is a douche!

[Xville]

Except they honestly don't in coaching searches unless things are pretty much buttoned up...

It would be a disaster for Louisville if this fell through at this point.

I think it is probably sewn up as well. However, I feel that these meetings happen all the time and the candidate doesn't end up coaching there. Heck, it just happened with Thad and Georgia. I know that's a bit different of a situation but it happens. I'm really really curious as to what happened there by the way. Was it really about his health, or is he holding out for something better?

[Caveat]

Except they honestly don't in coaching searches unless things are pretty much buttoned up...

It would be a disaster for Louisville if this fell through at this point.

I believe Mack is 100% gone.

But, I am reminded of the time the leprechaun flew all the the way out to Las Vegas, agreed to take a job with UNLV, then apparently had second thoughts on the plane ride home.

So, I suppose there’s a chance.

[SemajParlor]

I'm not giving up all hope. But my grudge engines are revving up. This thing really does go through stages.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Did you watch the FSU game with Tre, Naji, and JP on the bench? Scruggs, Gates, Goodin on the floor at the same time we’re a TOUGH watch.



How short sighted to look at the game against FSU and contribute that in anyway to how those players will look together next year after a full off season of work and game planning by the coaches for those players specifically. :facepalm:

[murray87]

I think it is probably sewn up as well. However, I feel that these meetings happen all the time and the candidate doesn't end up coaching there. Heck, it just happened with Thad and Georgia. I know that's a bit different of a situation but it happens. I'm really really curious as to what happened there by the way. Was it really about his health, or is he holding out for something better?

And he likely needs to be there face-to-face to ask them some really tough questions about what they know/expect to happen with the NCAA, FBI etc. And then when he sees what a dumpster fire awaits, he says "thank you for your time, I'm staying at Xavier."

[GoMuskies]

So do we think Xavier will get a meeting after his Louisville meeting and before he formally accepts the job? Maybe this has already happened, but I think Mack DOES owe Xavier the opportunity to give him their best offer to try to convince him to stay.

[dubbledxu]

How short sighted to look at the game against FSU and contribute that in anyway to how those players will look together next year after a full off season of work and game planning by the coaches for those players specifically. :facepalm:

Fair point, but opposing coaches will also be able to game plan against them. I’d love if we are able to make the tournament, but to say it’s a sure thing is VERY optimistic.

[47&18]

I honestly can't believe some X fans don't think Mack is a great coach. The numbers speak for themselves. During his tenure we have moved to a P5 conference, signed the best recruits in X's history, and won a shit ton of regular season and tourney games. I would love for X to go t the final 4, but I think we can all see that it's a crap shoot based on match-ups, player health, and officiating. JP stays in the game against FSU and we're probably still playing right now.

The knock on defense bothers me. I may be wrong (I'm sure you'll tell me), but only Matta and Miller stand out as defensive focused coaches in my mind. Prosser loved getting up and down the floor and so did Gillen. Are we surprised Mack is a more offense-focused coach when he cut his teeth under these guys? I'd love better defense, but I just don't see X having a solid recent history of defensive minded coaches. Would you guys rather have someone like Mick?

It's going to SUCK to see Mack go. But like many of you, I think the program is bigger than the coach. Steele is apparently a fantastic X's and O's guy and is also a great recruiter. If Mack ends up leaving, I think X has go with Steele for the good of the program. Guys like Musselman and Moser will be more like Matta and use X as a stepping stone to get to the ACC or B1G. We've had better luck keeping former assistants here for multiple years and that has led to better success in the long run.

[Blue Blooded-05]

And he likely needs to be there face-to-face to ask them some really tough questions about what they know/expect to happen with the NCAA, FBI etc. And then when he sees what a dumpster fire awaits, he says "thank you for your time, I'm staying at Xavier."

I mean, I hope you’re right, but c’mon... be realistic.

We’re talking about a place that was caught paying for hookers for 17 year old recruits. Do you really think they have the moral compass to be forthcoming about the potentially damaging details of a federal investigation? They’re going to tell Mack exactly what he wants to hear and he’ll rationalize away any concerns and worry about it later.

To put it another way... imagine one of those previously mentioned recruits with a hooker who has been paid and is willing. Everything is about to go down, as expected... alone in a room... clothes off... condom on... legs spread... then he looks down and sees herpes. Not a massive outbreak yet, but just a few noticeable yet inconspicuous bumps. Now, we all know cooler heads should prevail and he should know that one small bump is just as bad as one hundred. We sit here removed from the situation and say he should obviously stop and think about the long term impact this decision will have on his health and happiness. We all know he should walk away, and deep down, he does too. But we also know in that moment he’s going to tell himself that it’s probably razor burn and worry about the reprocussions later.

All of us need to come to terms with the reality that a head coach at Xavier is like a running back in a contract year. Enjoy the production while it lasts but don’t be shocked and bitter when he’s playing against you next year.

[SemajParlor]

I

All of us need to come to terms with the reality that a head coach at Xavier is like a running back in a contract year. Enjoy the production while it lasts but don’t be shocked and bitter when he’s playing against you next year.


The difference is running backs flame out after 4 years and head coaches can coach until they're 80.

[SemajParlor]

Keep seeing these analogies, a running back , scaling this scenario if you were making 175k, hell even the Buick and Lexus Miller made. At the end of the day it's a guy who grew up and played high school and college basketball at this school who's leaving to a cheating school for a little more money. I don't really need to have it broken down for me. That sucks.

[bleedXblue]

Keep seeing these analogies, a running back , scaling this scenario if you were making 175k, hell even the Buick and Lexus Miller made. At the end of the day it's a guy who grew up and played high school and college basketball at this school who's leaving to a cheating school for a little more money. I don't really need to have it broken down for me. That sucks.

ding, ding, ding........winner, winner chicken dinner

[Backyard Champ]

Keep seeing these analogies, a running back , scaling this scenario if you were making 175k, hell even the Buick and Lexus Miller made. At the end of the day it's a guy who grew up and played high school and college basketball at this school who's leaving to a cheating school for a little more money. I don't really need to have it broken down for me. That sucks.

A little more money... better facilities, better confererence, bigger spotlight, chance to coach against some of the best coaches of all time, a top 10 (close to top 5) basketball program..

But yeah it's for "a little more money"

[paulxu]

Keep seeing these analogies, a running back , scaling this scenario if you were making 175k, hell even the Buick and Lexus Miller made. At the end of the day it's a guy who grew up and played high school and college basketball at this school who's leaving to a cheating school for a little more money. I don't really need to have it broken down for me. That sucks.

Without agreeing/disagreeing with your premise (I personally believe it's a lot more complex than you note) I would point out that twice your current salary is not a "little more money."

It's a "lot" more money. (Security for family long-term, etc.)

[SemajParlor]

Xavier is offering Mack 3 mill a year. It wouldn't be twice his current, unless they're going all out.

[drudy23]

Xavier is offering Mack 3 mill a year. It wouldn't be twice his current, unless they're going all out.

Is this confirmed or just a rumor?

[danaandvictory]

What do you guys think will be covered in this meeting that Mack already doesn’t know about UL?

A formal offer of employment.


But why wait 3 days for it?

Maybe U of L's lawyers needed time to draw up the paperwork based upon the discussions with the agent.


I think he’s just giving X time to get an offer or chase a replacement while enjoying being pursued a bit.

I don't think this is it. I think if things get to the point of a formal meeting confirmed by both sides, it's fait accompli.

[danaandvictory]

I think it is probably sewn up as well. However, I feel that these meetings happen all the time and the candidate doesn't end up coaching there. Heck, it just happened with Thad and Georgia. I know that's a bit different of a situation but it happens. I'm really really curious as to what happened there by the way. Was it really about his health, or is he holding out for something better?

I believe that part of Thad's buyout at OSU required him to make efforts to seek replacement employment. I don't think Thad has any real desire to coach again.

[bleedXblue]

A formal offer of employment.



Maybe U of L's lawyers needed time to draw up the paperwork based upon the discussions with the agent.



I don't think this is it. I think if things get to the point of a formal meeting confirmed by both sides, it's fait accompli.

Probably.........

[paulxu]

Xavier is offering Mack 3 mill a year. It wouldn't be twice his current, unless they're going all out.

Semantics I guess. Whatever he is "currently" making, it'll be at least twice that.

It may not be twice the new offer (if it is $3 million), but it could be.

[SemajParlor]

Is this confirmed or just a rumor?

I'll say it's an educated rumor.

[paulxu]

Very difficult to get a true number on some of these salaries, because it requires costing out of cars, club memberships, and all sorts of perks.
And may/may not include monies from shoe companies, etc.
So, OSU's contract looks like $3 million for Holtmann, but Sports Illustrated puts it at $7 million.

https://www.si.com/college-basketball/2018/03/01/highest-paid-college-basketball-coaches-salaries-mike-krzyewski-john-calipari

If Holtmann is worth $7 million, I could easily see the people at basketball crazy Louisville coming up with $6 million.

[Muskeagle]

How short sighted to look at the game against FSU and contribute that in anyway to how those players will look together next year after a full off season of work and game planning by the coaches for those players specifically. :facepalm:

Moreover,there were plenty of 7 minute stretches in games this season where the offense looked lost WITH Macura and Tre on the court. It's a bit of crazy sample size to say this offense sucks....look at THOSE 7 minutes.

[markchal]

I'd feel a lot better about him leaving if he was leaving after our second straight e8 (or first FF). The bracket sure broke our way too. Ugh.

Truly an end of an era, but I'll always be a fan and if he does leave, I'll root for him to succeed down there too. Who knows, maybe down the road he comes back to finish out his career. If we can't keep an alum who grew up in town, then we're gonna keep going through this every 6-7 years probably.

The big advantage we have now, I guess, is there are a lot fewer jobs that are better than Big East Xavier, so it won't be like it was in the A-10, but it's still gonna happen. And let's hope it does, because that means the coach has been killing it. We've been pretty lucky in our last three hires, so let's hope that trend continues and the next guy also leaves for greener pastures.

[Miller'sTale]

If he leaves, which I hope he does not, I suggest we go balls out for Brad Stevens.

[Caveat]

So do we think Xavier will get a meeting after his Louisville meeting and before he formally accepts the job? Maybe this has already happened, but I think Mack DOES owe Xavier the opportunity to give him their best offer to try to convince him to stay.

I'd be shocked if Xavier hasn't already told Mack what they're willing to do -- but it doesn't matter.

If Xavier offers $3M per year, Louisville will offer $4M. If Xavier offers $4M per year, Louisville can offer $5M. Given the gross disparity in revenue between the two programs, there's nothing Xavier can do to beat Louisville in terms of financial compensation.

There's no need to "meet" to learn that.

[danaandvictory]

If he leaves, which I hope he does not, I suggest we go balls out for Brad Stevens.

Why not Zombie John Wooden?

[Lloyd Braun]

So is there still a decent chance he has to vacate wins from when Ed was allegedly ineligible? That would drop him back to 2nd in wins if so, correct? Might as well stay at least another year to secure #1...

[GoMuskies]

I'd be shocked if Xavier hasn't already told Mack what they're willing to do -- but it doesn't matter.

If Xavier offers $3M per year, Louisville will offer $4M. If Xavier offers $4M per year, Louisville can offer $5M. Given the gross disparity in revenue between the two programs, there's nothing Xavier can do to beat Louisville in terms of financial compensation.

There's no need to "meet" to learn that.

Louisville is not going to be beat on comp, but that doesn't mean it doesn't matter. Mack may well take less to stay at Xavier if they can get to a certain level. Only Mack knows that.

[SemajParlor]

Very difficult to get a true number on some of these salaries, because it requires costing out of cars, club memberships, and all sorts of perks.
And may/may not include monies from shoe companies, etc.
So, OSU's contract looks like $3 million for Holtmann, but Sports Illustrated puts it at $7 million.

https://www.si.com/college-basketball/2018/03/01/highest-paid-college-basketball-coaches-salaries-mike-krzyewski-john-calipari

If Holtmann is worth $7 million, I could easily see the people at basketball crazy Louisville coming up with $6 million.

Totally understand. And look, I can't "get mad" at someone for getting as much as he can. At the same time, I don't think people can "get mad" at me for being a sports fan and being pissed off at him for leaving us. If he turns down 3 million dollars to stay at his alma mater where he's had so many on and off the court ties to for a cheating program like Louisville, it's ok for my human emotion to take over. All that the grass isn't always greener talk sounds pretty cheap.

[SemajParlor]

Louisville is not going to be beat on comp, but that doesn't mean it doesn't matter. Mack may well take less to stay at Xavier if they can get to a certain level. Only Mack knows that.

Right. That's my thoughts on this as well. XU is making a real offer to stay.

[Masterofreality]

CMack is making $2.1 mil at XU now. That is comparable compensation through the school to YTG and Mark Few for example. He has been offered a new base of $3 million. There are also other incentives that are in play, both financial and infrastructure wise.

Look, XU can't match the ridiculous Brinks Truck of the Louisville cesspool sewer, but whatever. Xavier has stepped up big time and if CMack decides to leave, it's on him, not on Xavier. If he does leave, I hope he can buy some really good expensive soap to wash the stench off down there.

[IM4X]

If it is true about X offering Mack $3 million, then it should really be enough for a coach who claimed X this was his destination job.

I get him taking a visit, if the $3 mil offer had not been made beforehand. It is smart for a coach with his accomplishments to see just how close X can get to paying him what others are willing to pay. That said, $3 million is very fair... considering he would be able to stay in a job he knows he loves in his home town.

If he is offered $3 million and does not accept it, it may be he is concerned he can't win close to as many games with the guys coming back and recruits coming and he wants to go out on a high. If that is the case, it would say more about him than the school.

At Xavier, he is the ruler of his own kingdom. He can rule as long as he wants with a solid record. If he goes to Louisville and struggles out of the gate... they will be much quicker to turn on him. He is not family there. Just ask Kevin Stallings how he felt at Pitt. The poor guy may never get a coaching job again.

Unless Mack is being offered $5 million and a guaranteed of $10 million or more (if let go), it would be a huge mistake. Even then, he may very well find it is a mistake. Staying at a job you love, where you are being paid very well, surrounded by people who care about you and where you know you can get just about anything you need for the team is always going to be a better decision than taking more money for a job you have no idea you'll even like or feel at home or be treated like family.

I hope Mack learns from Jay Wright. It's simply not going to be better for him and his family in Louisville.

[bjf123]

I'd be shocked if Xavier hasn't already told Mack what they're willing to do -- but it doesn't matter.

If Xavier offers $3M per year, Louisville will offer $4M. If Xavier offers $4M per year, Louisville can offer $5M. Given the gross disparity in revenue between the two programs, there's nothing Xavier can do to beat Louisville in terms of financial compensation.

There's no need to "meet" to learn that.

Yep. It really comes down to what’s important to Chris. If it’s money, prestige, whether real or perceived, the challenge of coaching against the other blue bloods of college hoops, or a combination of all of these, he’s gone.

If he wants to avoid the extra pressure and expectations, have a financially comfortable life at a place where he’s the big man on campus with no competition from football, etc., he stays. I don’t have a frickin’ clue which way he’s going to go. My guess, and that’s all it is, is that he goes.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[IM4X]

CMack is making $2.1 mil at XU now. That is comparable compensation through the school to YTG and Mark Few for example. He has been offered a new base of $3 million. There are also other incentives that are in play, both financial and infrastructure wise.

Look, XU can't match the ridiculous Brinks Truck of the Louisville cesspool sewer, but whatever. Xavier has stepped up big time and if CMack decides to leave, it's on him, not on Xavier. If he does leave, I hope he can buy some really good expensive soap to wash the stench off down there.

Absolutely!

[SemajParlor]

If it is true about X offering Mack $3 million, then it should really be enough for a coach who claimed X this was his destination job.

I get him taking a visit, if the $3 mil offer had not been made beforehand. It is smart for a coach with his accomplishments to see just how close X can get to paying him what others are willing to pay. That said, $3 million is very fair... considering he would be able to stay in a job he knows he loves in his home town.

If he is offered $3 million and does not accept it, it may be he is concerned he can't win close to as many games with the guys coming back and recruits coming and he wants to go out on a high. If that is the case, it would say more about him than the school.

At Xavier, he is the ruler of his own kingdom. He can rule as long as he wants with a solid record. If he goes to Louisville and struggles out of the gate... they will be much quicker to turn on him. He is not family there. Just ask Kevin Stallings how he felt at Pitt. The poor guy may never get a coaching job again.

Unless Mack is being offered $5 million and a guaranteed of $10 million or more (if let go), it would be a huge mistake. Even then, he may very well find it is a mistake. Staying at a job you love, where you are being paid very well, surrounded by people who care about you and where you know you can get just about anything you need for the team is always going to be a better decision than taking more money for a job you have no idea you'll even like or feel at home or be treated like family.

I hope Mack learns from Jay Wright. It's simply not going to be better for him and his family in Louisville.


Yep.

[Emp]

I mean, I hope you’re right, but c’mon... be realistic.

We’re talking about a place that was caught paying for hookers for 17 year old recruits. Do you really think they have the moral compass to be forthcoming about the potentially damaging details of a federal investigation? They’re going to tell Mack exactly what he wants to hear and he’ll rationalize away any concerns and worry about it later.

To put it another way... imagine one of those previously mentioned recruits with a hooker who has been paid and is willing. Everything is about to go down, as expected... alone in a room... clothes off... condom on... legs spread... then he looks down and sees herpes. Not a massive outbreak yet, but just a few noticeable yet inconspicuous bumps. Now, we all know cooler heads should prevail and he should know that one small bump is just as bad as one hundred. We sit here removed from the situation and say he should obviously stop and think about the long term impact this decision will have on his health and happiness. We all know he should walk away, and deep down, he does too. But we also know in that moment he’s going to tell himself that it’s probably razor burn and worry about the reprocussions later.

All of us need to come to terms with the reality that a head coach at Xavier is like a running back in a contract year. Enjoy the production while it lasts but don’t be shocked and bitter when he’s playing against you next year.

My nomination for Fractured Analogy of the Year. Sounds like someone got burned. It would have been a LOT shorter to just say a stiff prick has no conscience. (Faust would be the classic analogy, but fly most readers.)

Any coach at his level wants to compete. Mack shot the moon on recruiting at Xavier after his EE. He found out Xavier is a real nice Buick. THAT is the analogy which will haunt us. IMHO, it has nothing to do with money, and everything to do with whether he can recruit the studs needed to compete at the highest level.

[double00]

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.yahoo.com/amphtml/news/homing-mack-100800164--ncaab.html

Oh how fast time flies.

[Caveat]

My nomination for Fractured Analogy of the Year. Sounds like someone got burned. It would have been a LOT shorter to just say a stiff prick has no conscience. (Faust would be the classic analogy, but fly most readers.)

Any coach at his level wants to compete. Mack shot the moon on recruiting at Xavier after his EE. He found out Xavier is a real nice Buick. THAT is the analogy which will haunt us. OMHO, it has nothing to do with money, and everything to do with whether he can recruit the studs needed to compete at the highest level.

The "gold standard" in recruiting remains the McDonalds All-Americans. Despite all the success Xavier has enjoyed, they've still never recruited one.

The trajectory on X has been consistently upward, but they've yet to hit the level of recruiting gold necessary to really compete for a national title IMO. Louisville is already there.

[JEHARDI]

It makes sense that you would meet and listen, in any other business it would be a given that you would have the conversation, why should this be any different? Hopefully, some of the numbers being tossed around from an X perspective our accurate. If they are, I feel good about our chances. If Mack were to leave anyway, it might be that he is ready for a change/ new challenge and it would be tough to begrudge him the opportunity and a huge payday.
Really hope he stays and having made the decision a number of times myself to make a career move, albeit on a much smaller scale. I know how tough these decisions can be, it is not fun.

[GoMuskies]

He's hit the recruiting level necessary to win a national title. If his team hit a few FTs, this year's team would be the current favorites to play in the national title game. One bad day at the foul line doesn't mean Xavier can't recruit the kids necessary to win a championship.

[Lloyd Braun]

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.yahoo.com/amphtml/news/homing-mack-100800164--ncaab.html

Oh how fast time flies.

Mark Schmidt... hmm

[SemajParlor]

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.yahoo.com/amphtml/news/homing-mack-100800164--ncaab.html

Oh how fast time flies.

"With his first head coaching job at his alma mater – and in his hometown – Mack said he couldn't envision being in a better situation.

Xavier fans have heard that before, of course.

Maybe this time things will be different."

[murray87]

Sorry if this tidbit from the Courier-Journal has already been posted but why would Mack want to deal with this giant cloud of uncertainty?? This would have to make recruiting harder than normal:

Louisville still doesn't know what to expect from a possible NCAA infractions process related to the FBI investigation into college basketball recruiting, which puts the university in an awkward position as it's on probation through 2021. Conclusions in the wide-ranging case may be years off — the FBI asked the NCAA not to conduct interviews in the case until after the three trials related to it are over, and the last one is set to begin in April 2019.

[Caf]

Sorry if this tidbit from the Courier-Journal has already been posted but why would Mack want to deal with this giant cloud of uncertainty?? This would have to make recruiting harder than normal:

Louisville still doesn't know what to expect from a possible NCAA infractions process related to the FBI investigation into college basketball recruiting, which puts the university in an awkward position as it's on probation through 2021. Conclusions in the wide-ranging case may be years off — the FBI asked the NCAA not to conduct interviews in the case until after the three trials related to it are over, and the last one is set to begin in April 2019.

U of L has had 4 coaches since 1944. Obviously a clean entry would be preferable but this is obviously his one and only shot at the job.

[IM4X]

He's hit the recruiting level necessary to win a national title. If his team hit a few FTs, this year's team would be the current favorites to play in the national title game. One bad day at the foul line doesn't mean Xavier can't recruit the kids necessary to win a championship.

I feel a bit similar. With the players we had on this team, X was clearly talented enough to at least get to the championship game. You can get the McDonald's All American kid and likely see him exit for the NBA earlier, or you can get one good enough to be nominated to be one (as X has been able to do) who then are more likely to stick around and develop while building chemistry with other similarly talented teammates.

[markchal]

The reality is we're very unlikely to get a guy to stay here for a decade-plus if we can't keep an alum. So, realistically, there's a chance that if things don't work out properly in Louisville, Mack could return 5-6 years down the road. I don't think anyone would be opposed to him returning someday.

[smileyy]

Ehhhhh...you can't go home again.

[LadyMuskie]

The reality is we're very unlikely to get a guy to stay here for a decade-plus if we can't keep an alum. So, realistically, there's a chance that if things don't work out properly in Louisville, Mack could return 5-6 years down the road. I don't think anyone would be opposed to him returning someday.
I might be opposed. Who's coaching X at the time? Why is Mack leaving Louisville? Why does he deserve another chance? I mean, I get he's an alum, but fool me once and all that. If our coach at the time is kicking ass and wants to stay, I sincerely hope no one would be advocating for him to be replaced by a regretful Mack, who finally realizes the terrible mistake he's made.

[JTG]

As for fractured analogies, how's this: You are a manager at a high class country club that is very successful, making $1mil. The owner of a famous whore house owned by the Mafia 100 miles away offers you $2mil. Do you stay at the country club, or go work at the whore house ?

[GoMuskies]

Do you stay at the country club, or go work at the whore house ?

Do I get an employee discount?

[xudash]

As for fractured analogies, how's this: You are a manager at a high class country club that is very successful, making $1mil. The owner of a famous whore house owned by the Mafia 100 miles away offers you $2mil. Do you stay at the country club, or go work at the whore house ?

I nominate this for post of the year! Well done JTG.

[cutterX]

I don't particularly want the disruption in coaches for the program's sake but if he wants to leave then I can't blame him. But to think that he can come back if things don't work out I say forget that. He's making a big boy decision for big boy money that comes with big boy consequences. I'm sure he knows that and may not even want to come back if it doesn't work out but I don't like the idea of leaving the door open for his return.

I'm a firm believer in the program being bigger than the coach. It's worked for the last 30+ years............

[JTG]

It occurred to me UL is an Adidas school, whereas X is a Nike school. Any chance Nike sweetens the Xavier deal to keep a high profile coach from switching to Adidas ? Probably a stretch but something I thought about.

[JTG]

Do I get an employee discount?

Remember the part about those little bumps. They're not just razor burn.

[GoMuskies]

Remember the part about those little bumps. They're not just razor burn.

I was talking about the country club you sicko. :)

[MHettel]

I'm sorry but I call your bluff. You said it yourself... The choice comes down to your family. They are well off at 175k a year. If XYZ comes and offers you 500k you are not considering you are flying at that job. 500k gives you a new lifestyle. 500k means after 5 years you have better 2.5 million as opposed to less than 1 million. If original company comes back and says how about 300k you are still going for 500k cause it puts your family in a better position. The difference between 300k and 500k is immense. And you are definitely taking not just considering if XYZ is a little over an hour away so you are still in contact with family and friends

Fundamentally, you make point. But it's the use of "generic" numbers that allow you to do so.

-175K Vs 500K would be a massive increase and would in fact result in a "different lifestyle." Point made!
-the counter offer of 300K vs the existing 175K would also improve your quality of life a great deal, but not as much as 500K would.
-So the question becomes, what is the actual impact on your lifestyle of the incremental 200K?

But here's the thing.....we are not talking about 175K, or 300K, or 500K. We are talking about numbers that are 10 times those amounts.

If I'm making 1.75M already, I'm in a very select circle of people that can already afford all the luxuries in life. Do I really need more? Hell yes, I'll take more....but need? Gold silverware maybe? Buy a helicopter? get ANOTHER vacation home? Bling?

so along comes the 5M offer, and as a result a 3M counter. the 3M is still a huge upgrade, and you can go ahead and get the vacation home and the bling, but maybe not the helicopter. And, you give up NOTHING of what you already have.

Would you trade a helicopter for uprooting your kids, tolerating fan scrutiny to a 10x level, having the looming NCAA investigation, and just overall uncertainty?

The numbers are too big here to suggest a lifestyle change. He's already got the lifestyle. If Mack is Smart, he's use UofL to get the biggest raise possible, and have us shower him with accolades. he should speak to Matta, Miller, and Gillen. How that work out. Hell, Prosser DIED, and you cant rule out the possibility that job related stress wasn't a contributing factor.

[MHettel]

To put it another way... imagine one of those previously mentioned recruits with a hooker who has been paid and is willing. Everything is about to go down, as expected... alone in a room... clothes off... condom on... legs spread... then he looks down and sees herpes. Not a massive outbreak yet, but just a few noticeable yet inconspicuous bumps. Now, we all know cooler heads should prevail and he should know that one small bump is just as bad as one hundred. We sit here removed from the situation and say he should obviously stop and think about the long term impact this decision will have on his health and happiness. We all know he should walk away, and deep down, he does too. But we also know in that moment he’s going to tell himself that it’s probably razor burn and worry about the reprocussions later.

.

what.the.fuck.?

[Lloyd Braun]

Leaving X killed Skip? Damn... if that’s not enough to convince Mack to stay I don’t know what is.

[MHettel]

A little more money... better facilities, better confererence, bigger spotlight, chance to coach against some of the best coaches of all time, a top 10 (close to top 5) basketball program..

But yeah it's for "a little more money"

Following 3 legendary coaches at a program that was top 10 when you got there

vs.

Becoming the legendary coach of the top 10 program you helped create

checkmate.

[JTG]

It occurred to me UL is an Adidas school, whereas X is a Nike school. Any chance Nike sweetens the Xavier deal to keep a high profile coach from switching to Adidas ? Probably a stretch but something I thought about.

[AviatorX]

Following 3 legendary coaches at a program that was top 10 when you got there

vs.

Becoming the legendary coach of the top 10 program you helped create

checkmate.

One could argue the real checkmate will be Mack taking the Lville job, which all credible sources are making sound like a sure bet.

[danaandvictory]

We're plumbing new depths folks.

[XU 87]

Hell, Prosser DIED, and you cant rule out the possibility that job related stress wasn't a contributing factor.

Are you seriously arguing that the Wake Forest job killed Skip, and he would still be alive today had he stayed at X?

[Xavier2015]

"With his first head coaching job at his alma mater – and in his hometown – Mack said he couldn't envision being in a better situation.

Xavier fans have heard that before, of course.

Maybe this time things will be different."


When Mack talks about his passion for his new gig – when he labels it a "destination job" and a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" – there's a chance he actually means it.


"Destination job"....I hope the Louisville situation is just a ploy to get more money....If he leaves, he is nothing but a liar.

[BandAid]

Are you seriously arguing that the Wake Forest job killed Skip, and he would still be alive today had he stayed at X?

I'm not sure about Skip, but the Wake Forest job definitely killed Dino Gaudio's career.

[XU 87]

I'm not sure about Skip, but the Wake Forest job definitely killed Dino Gaudio's career.

That much is true.

[stammina0721]

Xavier making this offer should make you proud. They have done everything and more to keep Chris Mack. Simply not having the money that Hookerville (a state school) is just reality. I guarantee after the offer is made known Mack WILL be the most hated Xavier coach out of the last 6. Mack could be a very wealthy man from Xavier University with about half the stress of Hookerville. It's a shame when he said Xavier is a destination job he is going to inherit an absolute dumpster fire off the court and leave those closest to him.

While I see your point it is unrealistic. First of all I am proud X is at least offering it. Gives hope we can land a bigger name when Mack leaves.

The unrealistic point is on Mack being wealthy at X. While that is true he can be wealthier at Louisville. Happiness is never a consideration when the almighty dollar is involved. He could have been filthy wealthy and a God in St Louis but chose LA a bigger city with bigger money. He could have been happy, loved to the level of a God and competed for rings with the Cardinals and gave it all up cause LA offered 240 million.

If you don't believe me allow me one sports reference to change your mind. Albert Pujols was offered 220 million by the Cardinals

[JEHARDI]

"Destination job"....I hope the Louisville situation is just a ploy to get more money....If he leaves, he is nothing but a liar.

A liar? People are not entitled to evolve and move on in life and work?

[xufan2020]

While I see your point it is unrealistic. First of all I am proud X is at least offering it. Gives hope we can land a bigger name when Mack leaves.

The unrealistic point is on Mack being wealthy at X. While that is true he can be wealthier at Louisville. Happiness is never a consideration when the almighty dollar is involved. He could have been filthy wealthy and a God in St Louis but chose LA a bigger city with bigger money. He could have been happy, loved to the level of a God and competed for rings with the Cardinals and gave it all up cause LA offered 240 million.

If you don't believe me allow me one sports reference to change your mind. Albert Pujols was offered 220 million by the Cardinals

St. Louis vs LA.. who wouldn't want to make that change late in their career. Pujols did everything for the Cardinals, he's still beloved. Not a fair reference.

[MHettel]

Are you seriously arguing that the Wake Forest job killed Skip, and he would still be alive today had he stayed at X?

He did die of a heart attack right? And a major contributor to heart attacks is known to be stress. 2 facts so far?

So, there must have been a source of stress. Also a fact? And, among the known sources of stress, "job stress" is certainly one of the most common. Fact #4.

I'm not sure where you arrive at the conclusion that I believe he would be alive had he stayed at XU. I'm saying that job related stress may have killed him. Are you arguing against that?

[MHettel]

While I see your point it is unrealistic. First of all I am proud X is at least offering it. Gives hope we can land a bigger name when Mack leaves.



I don't understand this logic. Maybe we should have not countered at all. Us putting a 3M number out there will only signal to UofL that they need to get to 5M. The result is that we lose Mack.

if we don't make a 3m offer, then maybe UofL only needs to get to 4M to get Mack.

Our choice to make the 3M offer may actually raise the bar on what coaches get paid, serving to further the gap that already exists.

[XUBison]

As for fractured analogies, how's this: You are a manager at a high class country club that is very successful, making $1mil. The owner of a famous whore house owned by the Mafia 100 miles away offers you $2mil. Do you stay at the country club, or go work at the whore house ?

LOL. UL is skanksville. And Pitino and Petrino are like straight out of Good Fellas. Works for me. Hope Mack stays away from the waitresses and tabletops down there.

[drudy23]

X had to have made an increased offer to Mack:

1) They had to to even remotely try to retain him knowing what UL would be giving, and
2) He deserves it

[dubbledxu]

X had to have made an increased offer to Mack:

1) They had to to even remotely try to retain him knowing what UL would be giving, and
2) He deserves it

Yes, and if we dont pony up and pay one of our own, one who deserves it, why would we pony up and pay any of the coaches that follow him and look to move on to more "destination" jobs? We either want to be a major player or we dont. It is really that simple.

[GoMuskies]

Welcome Louisville lurkers!

[mistabeecee41]

Funny looking at this 5 years later.

Leave it to the banned guy to be the one to nail it on the head.

http://www.xavierhoops.com/showthread.php?25953-Chris-Mack&highlight=chris+mack

[XUBison]

I don't understand this logic. Maybe we should have not countered at all. Us putting a 3M number out there will only signal to UofL that they need to get to 5M. The result is that we lose Mack.

if we don't make a 3m offer, then maybe UofL only needs to get to 4M to get Mack.

Our choice to make the 3M offer may actually raise the bar on what coaches get paid, serving to further the gap that already exists.

Good grief. Did you forget to turn on your brain before writing this post? I hope like crazy that X really did offer $3M. It sends a loud message to fans that X made the best possible effort to keep Mack, and to the rest of college basketball that X is a serious player. Cal is the only coach in the SEC making more than $3M for God’s sake.

[MHettel]

Good grief. Did you forget to turn on your brain before writing this post? I hope like crazy that X really did offer $3M. It sends a loud message to fans that X made the best possible effort to keep Mack, and to the rest of college basketball that X is a serious player. Cal is the only coach in the SEC making more than $3M for God’s sake.

No, I don’t really believe this. We should take our best shot to retain him, but I find it ironic that our well intended and genuine attempt to keep our coach will probably only serve as leverage for Mack to get even more money.

[chico]

No, I don’t really believe this. We should take our best shot to retain him, but I find it ironic that our well intended and genuine attempt to keep our coach will probably only serve as leverage for Mack to get even more money.

Xavier can't offer enough to give leverage to Mack. When they can likely offer upwards of 5-6 mil/yr., a 3 mil offer from Xavier isn't really a game changer from a salary perspective. Mack has enough leverage as it is, anyway, considering the current and coming sanctions awaiting Louisville. What Xavier's offer does do is show Mack that this school's serious about keeping him and is willing to do whatever it can to keep him.

[bleedXblue]

Xavier can't offer enough to give leverage to Mack. When they can likely offer upwards of 5-6 mil/yr., a 3 mil offer from Xavier isn't really a game changer from a salary perspective. Mack has enough leverage as it is, anyway, considering the current and coming sanctions awaiting Louisville. What Xavier's offer does do is show Mack that this school's serious about keeping him and is willing to do whatever it can to keep him.

Correct...and Mack isnt going to use X to get him more money. I honestly don't think that he would even consider doing that........

[XUBison]

Serious question... assuming X did offer $3M plus, what is the meltdown going to be like here if Mack takes the job at Louisville... for $3M-$4M?

[dubbledxu]

Not sure how you value @kysportsradio, but https://twitter.com/kysportsradio/status/977318586233573376?s=21

[smileyy]

Serious question... assuming X did offer $3M plus, what is the meltdown going to be like here if Mack takes the job at Louisville... for $3M-$4M?

Pretty big. I'm guessing he's in $4-5M range.

[AviatorX]

Not sure how you value @kysportsradio, but https://twitter.com/kysportsradio/status/977318586233573376?s=21

I mean...this hasn't been a secret for the past 48 hours.

Barring an unprecedented turnaround, this thing is done - no other reason for both sides to confirm the meeting. Chances of Mack walking away from the meeting and coming back to X have gotta be hovering below .000001%.

[GoMuskies]

I mean...this hasn't been a secret for the past 48 hours.

Barring an unprecedented turnaround, this thing is done - no other reason for both sides to confirm the meeting. Chances of Mack walking away from the meeting and coming back to X have gotta be hovering below .000001%.

It's not THAT unusual. I'm thinking 80/20 he goes.

[Lloyd Braun]

Serious question... assuming X did offer $3M plus, what is the meltdown going to be like here if Mack takes the job at Louisville... for $3M-$4M?

If it’s under 4 I would feel pretty slighted. If you can’t keep an alumnus at $3mil/yr (which is top 10-15 pay) then this will never be a destination job.

[AviatorX]

It's not THAT unusual. I'm thinking 80/20 he goes.

It's pretty unusual for it to be this transparent especially when it's not going down right away.

When's the last time both sides confirmed a meeting 48 hours in advance? Obviously a lot of times things are confirmed once there's a private flight from Vegas to Cincy and back for example. But all of that could have easily been avoided in this situation yet both sides allowed it to play out in the open.

Do we really think Louisville is going to let this get away from them when it's this far down the road?

I would be floored in Mack coaches another game for X. Like UMBC over UVA by 20 floored.

[SemajParlor]

If it’s under 4 I would feel pretty slighted. If you can’t keep an alumnus at $3mil/yr (which is top 10-15 pay) then this will never be a destination job.

But Chris Mack told me it was!

[JTG]

If this courtship has been going on since January, it's a wonder this wasn't a more screwed up season. Knowing you're gonna hit the road in 3 months, kind of awkward. And if this is true, how much planning has Christopher been doing ? Lots of questions.

[bleedXblue]

It's pretty unusual for it to be this transparent especially when it's not going down right away.

When's the last time both sides confirmed a meeting 48 hours in advance? Obviously a lot of times things are confirmed once there's a private flight from Vegas to Cincy and back for example. But all of that could have easily been avoided in this situation yet both sides allowed it to play out in the open.

Do we really think Louisville is going to let this get away from them when it's this far down the road?

I would be floored in Mack coaches another game for X. Like UMBC over UVA by 20 floored.

Totally agree. I think the meeting is a formality. UL hasn't announced any other meeting or interest in any other coach at this point.

[Lloyd Braun]

But Chris Mack told me it was!

2009 Chris Mack or 2018 Chris Mack?

[XUBison]

Totally agree. I think the meeting is a formality. UL hasn't announced any other meeting or interest in any other coach at this point.

Maybe the only reason Mack is attending the meeting is because he’ll be wearing a wire.

[stammina0721]

Maybe the only reason Mack is attending the meeting is because he’ll be wearing a wire.

Can this go down as post of the day

[XU 87]

He did die of a heart attack right? And a major contributor to heart attacks is known to be stress. 2 facts so far?

So, there must have been a source of stress. Also a fact? And, among the known sources of stress, "job stress" is certainly one of the most common. Fact #4.

I'm not sure where you arrive at the conclusion that I believe he would be alive had he stayed at XU. I'm saying that job related stress may have killed him. Are you arguing against that?

Do you still think X should go independent?

[IM4X]

Aparently there are solid coaches chomping at the bit for an opportunity to coach at X.

Not that it should really surprise any of us, but just hearing that a coach supposedly is holding off on an ACC school looking to hire him until he finds out if Mack is leaving Xavier made me feel a little tingly inside.

https://pittsburgh.forums.rivals.com/threads/word-is-now-that-schmidt-put-pitt-on-hold.129043/

[JTG]

Aparently there are solid coaches chomping at the bit for an opportunity to coach at X.

Not that it should really surprise any of us, but just hearing that a coach supposedly is holding off on an ACC school looking to hire him until he finds out if Mack is leaving Xavier made me feel a little tingly inside.

https://pittsburgh.forums.rivals.com/threads/word-is-now-that-schmidt-put-pitt-on-hold.129043/

Pitt is a shit job, and Schmidt used to coach at X....nothing to get excited over.

[drudy23]

Call me crazy (or stupid), but I don't think he's leaving either.

What we haven't heard AT ALL are the things X is doing to try to retain him. There's no way they're sitting around and twiddling their thumbs. He has too much respect for the school, his city, his alma mater, his assistants (whose lives would be uprooted as well) and everything they've done for him, not to entertain X's offer. The ties are too deep for him just to leave without listening to what X has to offer.

I don't think this is an easy decision at all for Mack. His girls are at an age where they are involved in a ton of things, he's the main man at X and has everything he needs, he's elevated the recruiting profile, and I think he wants more than anything to prove X can get to the top of the mountain. And...he wants to continue to own UC and Cronin in every way possible.

The money is too much not to listen to Louisville, but I just don't see him as the type to bolt for cash. He has alot vested in a really, really good program. He might leave, but it will be a very, very hard decision for him.

[Caveat]

You’re crazy.

Absent an absolute change of heart at the last minute, it’s a done deal from what I was told this evening.

[JTG]

Considering Mack has been the only name on the list since Pitino got canned, this would be huge egg on UL's face. That's why they have to throw crazy money at Mack. I'd be ecstatic if he stayed, but It may be down to the 15% stay odds.
In any event it's been a long public courtship. Most of these deals are almost totally secret until the press conference.

[JEHARDI]

You’re crazy.

Absent an absolute change of heart at the last minute, it’s a done deal from what I was told this evening.

It it was such a lock, it would already be done.

[GIMMFD]

Pitt is a shit job, and Schmidt used to coach at X....nothing to get excited over.

I really hope that's not the direction we choose to go, not an overwhelmingly great resume with Schmidt...



Call me crazy (or stupid), but I don't think he's leaving either.

What we haven't heard AT ALL are the things X is doing to try to retain him. There's no way they're sitting around and twiddling their thumbs. He has too much respect for the school, his city, his alma mater, his assistants (whose lives would be uprooted as well) and everything they've done for him, not to entertain X's offer. The ties are too deep for him just to leave without listening to what X has to offer.

I don't think this is an easy decision at all for Mack. His girls are at an age where they are involved in a ton of things, he's the main man at X and has everything he needs, he's elevated the recruiting profile, and I think he wants more than anything to prove X can get to the top of the mountain. And...he wants to continue to own UC and Cronin in every way possible.

The money is too much not to listen to Louisville, but I just don't see him as the type to bolt for cash. He has alot vested in a really, really good program. He might leave, but it will be a very, very hard decision for him.

Obviously Xavier will do everything they can to try to keep Mack, I'm sure of that. I bet they've rounded up every penny possible for a raise offer, and at the end of the day it's all we can do. As stated, we can't compete with Louisville in an arms race, but we do have a plethora of factors on our side. Xavier is an attractive job, much more attractive than when he took over, it's definitely going to be eating at his conscious. At the end of the day, he's going to make a decision, with himself, his assistants, and his family in what he feels the best is for his career.

I believe he will always have a strong love for Xavier, you don't spend this much time, and effort, through being an alumni, and playing the same game he's teaching these guys. He's taught our guys how to be strong morally as well, which is something I thank him for. It's silly not to listen to what Louisville is offering, and it's silly to believe Xavier isn't trying their best. I'm hoping things work out for the better for us, but if not, it's life, and we move on, I don't want to be a stepping stone program, but I can understand taking care of what's in one's best interest. Just would leave a lot to be desired if he left, I truly hope he feels he has some unfinished business at X, and is the man to propel us to the next level. Who better than an ex-player alum, that's our all-time wins leader?

[drudy23]

Chances any of our young studs follow Mack if he goes? Naji? Q?

I don't want to think about that.

[xudash]

I really hope that's not the direction we choose to go, not an overwhelmingly great resume with Schmidt...




Obviously Xavier will do everything they can to try to keep Mack, I'm sure of that. I bet they've rounded up every penny possible for a raise offer, and at the end of the day it's all we can do. As stated, we can't compete with Louisville in an arms race, but we do have a plethora of factors on our side. Xavier is an attractive job, much more attractive than when he took over, it's definitely going to be eating at his conscious. At the end of the day, he's going to make a decision, with himself, his assistants, and his family in what he feels the best is for his career.

I believe he will always have a strong love for Xavier, you don't spend this much time, and effort, through being an alumni, and playing the same game he's teaching these guys. He's taught our guys how to be strong morally as well, which is something I thank him for. It's silly not to listen to what Louisville is offering, and it's silly to believe Xavier isn't trying their best. I'm hoping things work out for the better for us, but if not, it's life, and we move on, I don't want to be a stepping stone program, but I can understand taking care of what's in one's best interest. Just would leave a lot to be desired if he left, I truly hope he feels he has some unfinished business at X, and is the man to propel us to the next level. Who better than an ex-player alum, that's our all-time wins leader?

Great post.

[dubbledxu]

I wouldn’t begrudge any of the kids for wanting to leave with Mack. Gotta think they’d (outside Naji) be worried abt playing time with UL recruits tho.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Chances any of our young studs follow Mack if he goes? Naji? Q?

I don't want to think about that.

I cant imagine any of them want to sit a year especially given how some of the have progressed/probably will progress and what they probably think they can do together. Who knows though.

[TUclutch]

If it is true about X offering Mack $3 million, then it should really be enough for a coach who claimed X this was his destination job.

I get him taking a visit, if the $3 mil offer had not been made beforehand. It is smart for a coach with his accomplishments to see just how close X can get to paying him what others are willing to pay. That said, $3 million is very fair... considering he would be able to stay in a job he knows he loves in his home town.

If he is offered $3 million and does not accept it, it may be he is concerned he can't win close to as many games with the guys coming back and recruits coming and he wants to go out on a high. If that is the case, it would say more about him than the school.

At Xavier, he is the ruler of his own kingdom. He can rule as long as he wants with a solid record. If he goes to Louisville and struggles out of the gate... they will be much quicker to turn on him. He is not family there. Just ask Kevin Stallings how he felt at Pitt. The poor guy may never get a coaching job again.

Unless Mack is being offered $5 million and a guaranteed of $10 million or more (if let go), it would be a huge mistake. Even then, he may very well find it is a mistake. Staying at a job you love, where you are being paid very well, surrounded by people who care about you and where you know you can get just about anything you need for the team is always going to be a better decision than taking more money for a job you have no idea you'll even like or feel at home or be treated like family.

I hope Mack learns from Jay Wright. It's simply not going to be better for him and his family in Louisville.

Sorry, but this is fuckin flat out wrong. I want him to stay as much as anyone, but it is not up to anyone but Mack and his family what is best for them. if they are happier there than that means its better for them. For you to suggest otherwise is asinine.

[X Factor]

Chances any of our young studs follow Mack if he goes? Naji? Q?

I don't want to think about that.

I doubt it. It's rare you see current players follow a coach to a new school. Recruits? Yes, but not current players. I doubt any of the current recruits would even go to UofL with Mack.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I wouldn’t begrudge any of the kids for wanting to leave with Mack. Gotta think they’d (outside Naji) be worried abt playing time with UL recruits tho.

Dont think UL has anyone coming in at all. But they would have to sit next year anyway so playing time would be nil.

[Caveat]

Chances any of our young studs follow Mack if he goes? Naji? Q?

I don't want to think about that.

Going with Steele probably mitigates that heavily. Another massive point in his favor.

[XUBison]

Aparently there are solid coaches chomping at the bit for an opportunity to coach at X.

Not that it should really surprise any of us, but just hearing that a coach supposedly is holding off on an ACC school looking to hire him until he finds out if Mack is leaving Xavier made me feel a little tingly inside.

https://pittsburgh.forums.rivals.com/threads/word-is-now-that-schmidt-put-pitt-on-hold.129043/

This is hilarious on a lot of levels. A lot of respect for X on there. Thanks for posting.

[XUBison]

Call me crazy (or stupid), but I don't think he's leaving either.

What we haven't heard AT ALL are the things X is doing to try to retain him. There's no way they're sitting around and twiddling their thumbs. He has too much respect for the school, his city, his alma mater, his assistants (whose lives would be uprooted as well) and everything they've done for him, not to entertain X's offer. The ties are too deep for him just to leave without listening to what X has to offer.

I don't think this is an easy decision at all for Mack. His girls are at an age where they are involved in a ton of things, he's the main man at X and has everything he needs, he's elevated the recruiting profile, and I think he wants more than anything to prove X can get to the top of the mountain. And...he wants to continue to own UC and Cronin in every way possible.

The money is too much not to listen to Louisville, but I just don't see him as the type to bolt for cash. He has alot vested in a really, really good program. He might leave, but it will be a very, very hard decision for him.

At this point, I think you want him to want these things. I do think this meeting is weird though. Not that they’re meeting, but that the meeting has been telegraphed well in advance. Usually we find out a coach met with a school after the fact. Seems especially weird if this is a done deal, as is being reported. I think coaches are often hired practically sight unseen. I have figured it’s happening like this because Chris, out of respect for X and fans, is trying to make this process transparent. Who knows though? Maybe Chris has told them no, and UL has requested an in-person meeting to make one last push. Alas, I think this is wishful thinking.

[smileyy]

I'm going to say something ridiculous and predict that he gets more than $5m/yr total comp from Louisville.

[AviatorX]

Those still saying they'll be surprised if Mack goes must have better sources than Travis Steele, unless he felt like turning MTSU down for fun.

[IM4X]

Sorry, but this is fuckin flat out wrong. I want him to stay as much as anyone, but it is not up to anyone but Mack and his family what is best for them. if they are happier there than that means its better for them. For you to suggest otherwise is asinine.

Okay... if you REALLY THINK he and his wife and his kids are going to be happier at Louisville... God Bless You.

So would you also call it "flat out wrong" if I had suggested, "It's going to be better for him and his family at Louisville?"

Look, I presented reasons I believe he and his family will not be as happy.

Could I be wrong? Well, sure... I suppose Chris could leave his current "dream job" at his alma mater in his hometown and find himself happier at a school with a reputation for both winning some national championships and allowing unethical practices to go on in the basketball program.

Maybe he could change the unethical practices part... Maybe Louisville could be his real dream job. I just don't see it. I am hoping Mack sees it too and stays.

I appreciate your response as I appreciate others who see where I am coming from and agree with my sentiments.

[IM4X]

People can talk about how Mack has to do what is right for him and his family. But what about doing what is right for his Alma Mater who took a chance on him and hired him as a head coach? His decision will alter the perception and reputation of our university moving forward. Maybe not drastically, but it will positively or negatively change how outsiders look at us and even how we fans feel.

By taking the Louisville job, Chris would for all intents and purposes be saying, "Yeah, even though I've said Xavier was my dream job and I've proven this year that you can win a Big East regular season championship here and even though X got a 1 seed in this year's NCAA Tournament, I still believe Louisville is a better place to coach than my Alma Mater...and so I guess X is still just a stepping stone job."

This is why it is a much bigger deal if Mack leaves than it was when Miller or Matta or Gillen or Prosser left.

No matter how anyone may try to spin it, Mack leaving X for Louisville makes X look bad and Louisville look good.

Conversely, Mack has the power to make Xavier (and the Big East) look better than Louisville, simply by staying at X.

[xavierj]

Chances any of our young studs follow Mack if he goes? Naji? Q?

I don't want to think about that.

If Steele gets job no one will leave and the recruits will come. He recruited most of these guys and I am sure as an assistant he is much closer to them as well. If not Steele, Kaiser won’t, he has one year left, doubt Naji or Q would would want to sit. Harden doubt it as he doesn’t want to sit another year. I guess there would be a chance for Paul or TY, but doubtful if the new coach can recruit. But if Chris leaves, my guess is Steele gets the job and everything stays in tact.

[XUGRAD80]

People can talk about how Mack has to do what is right for him and his family. But what about doing what is right for his Alma Mater who took a chance on him and hired him as a head coach? His decision will alter the perception and reputation of our university moving forward. Maybe not drastically, but it will positively or negatively change how outsiders look at us and even how we fans feel.

By taking the Louisville job, Chris would for all intents and purposes be saying, "Yeah, even though I've said Xavier was my dream job and I've proven this year that you can win a Big East regular season championship here and even though X got a 1 seed in this year's NCAA Tournament, I still believe Louisville is a better place to coach than my Alma Mater...and so I guess X is still just a stepping stone job."

This is why it is a much bigger deal if Mack leaves than it was when Miller or Matta or Gillen or Prosser left.

No matter how anyone may try to spin it, Mack leaving X for Louisville makes X look bad and Louisville look good.

Conversely, Mack has the power to make Xavier (and the Big East) look better than Louisville, simply by staying at X.

Most people would understand that leaving X for UL would be already be considered a step up for virtually any coach. More money, bigger fan base, facilities on par with most professional teams, higher profile conference, etc. This is certainly no knock on Xavier in ANY way, or the fan base, the facilities, or the Big East. But it is the difference between being the CEO of a mid-sized company and being the CEO of GE. Nobody should fault Mack if he decides to go to Louisville, as there are good reasons why most people would. IF he stays (and I certainly hope he does) it won’t raise the Xavier profile in any way. It will be seen for what it is.....Mack deciding that the pluses at X outweigh the minuses at UL, and deciding that he is happy here now and can be happy here for as long as he wants.

[Straightshooter]

Good comparison, GE's stock has crashed over 50%, valued in the low 13's, and is considered a disaster.

[dubbledxu]

Good comparison, GE's stock has crashed over 50%, valued in the low 13's, and is considered a disaster.

Not only has it crashed, it did absolutely nothing but lose money in recent stock run. While its competitors have continually set new highs.

[Ole blue eyes]

Okay... if you REALLY THINK he and his wife and his kids are going to be happier at Louisville... God Bless You.

So would you also call it "flat out wrong" if I had suggested, "It's going to be better for him and his family at Louisville?"

Look, I presented reasons I believe he and his family will not be as happy.

Could I be wrong? Well, sure... I suppose Chris could leave his current "dream job" at his alma mater in his hometown and find himself happier at a school with a reputation for both winning some national championships and allowing unethical practices to go on in the basketball program.

Maybe he could change the unethical practices part... Maybe Louisville could be his real dream job. I just don't see it. I am hoping Mack sees it too and stays.

I appreciate your response as I appreciate others who see where I am coming from and agree with my sentiments.

Perfect description of reasonable vs unreasonable. Thank you IM4x

[Ole blue eyes]

Most people would understand that leaving X for UL would be already be considered a step up for virtually any coach. More money, bigger fan base, facilities on par with most professional teams, higher profile conference, etc. This is certainly no knock on Xavier in ANY way, or the fan base, the facilities, or the Big East. But it is the difference between being the CEO of a mid-sized company and being the CEO of GE. Nobody should fault Mack if he decides to go to Louisville, as there are good reasons why most people would. IF he stays (and I certainly hope he does) it won’t raise the Xavier profile in any way. It will be seen for what it is.....Mack deciding that the pluses at X outweigh the minuses at UL, and deciding that he is happy here now and can be happy here for as long as he wants.

I agree with most of this. First, in the world of college basketball, Xavier is in no measurement comparable to a “mid-size Company”. But more importantly, if I know that GE is under Federal investigation after many years of rumored corruption, no way I’m leaving my current CEO position.

[GoMuskies]

It's certainly not unreasonable to think it will be the same or better for Mack and his family in Louisville. Obviously, they're all very familiar with the place given that Christi is from there and her family still lives there. Culturally, the cities are pretty similar (with a bit more southern flavor in Louisville...particularly the part Christi is from). If they're hanging out in the Catholic circles, that will feel very similar from Cincinnati to Louisville. Louisville has a great program with a passionate fan base and wins a lot. For all the talk of it being a pressure cooker, no one has ever been fired for losing there (well, no one who hadn't been there for 30 years already). They've got some issues now, of course, but it's still a great situation.

I think Xavier is a great setup for the Macks. There's no reason Louisville can't be just as great for them (plus a lot more dough).

[Section 200]

Most people would understand that leaving X for UL would be already be considered a step up for virtually any coach. More money, bigger fan base, facilities on par with most professional teams, higher profile conference, etc. This is certainly no knock on Xavier in ANY way, or the fan base, the facilities, or the Big East. But it is the difference between being the CEO of a mid-sized company and being the CEO of GE. Nobody should fault Mack if he decides to go to Louisville, as there are good reasons why most people would. IF he stays (and I certainly hope he does) it won’t raise the Xavier profile in any way. It will be seen for what it is.....Mack deciding that the pluses at X outweigh the minuses at UL, and deciding that he is happy here now and can be happy here for as long as he wants.

I guess I'm in the crazy group of folks that doesn't see UofL as a step up from Xavier. Second fiddle to UK, history of cheating, now a football first school, constant expectation of Final Four and not connected to the Chicago & Northeast talent pipelines any more in the ACC. I'm sure UofL will pay an absurd amount of money to the next coach, but do you really want to be associated with that school?

On the other hand, in the Big East Xavier has close connection to Chicago & the Northeast, no football to compete with and a very forgiving and patient fanbase. I guess I'm old, but I take decent but lower cash from Xavier every time over UofL.

Mack will probably leave since the interview is public, but it's not a choice I would make.

[XUGRAD80]

Good comparison, GE's stock has crashed over 50%, valued in the low 13's, and is considered a disaster.

If it wasn’t a total disaster at UL they wouldn’t be looking for a new coach, would they? It’s not like Pitino retired and because of that they are looking for a new one.

Taking over a failing company can be a curse or an opportunity. In many ways there is no place to go but up, but the questions remain...will one be given the time needed to turn things around, will it get worse before it gets better, and it something that one really wants to put themselves through? Generally it’s a whole lot easier and more plesamt to take over something that is already doing well and just try to improve where it’s at. Taking the family considerations completely out of the equation....Mack has spent many years building the Xavier program up to where it is now...as a player, assistant coach, and coach. Only he can decide if he wants to stay around and harvest the fruits of his labor or wants to take on a new challenge elsewhere.

[SemajParlor]

I also think the U of L step from Xavier seems to be exaggerated here. Pitino had to cheat his way to get that program nationally relevant again. This is not Arizona from A10 Xavier.

I’m trying not to let my bias get in the way of a rational thought here - but I truly do think this might be a mistake.

[stammina0721]

Call me crazy (or stupid), but I don't think he's leaving either.

What we haven't heard AT ALL are the things X is doing to try to retain him. There's no way they're sitting around and twiddling their thumbs. He has too much respect for the school, his city, his alma mater, his assistants (whose lives would be uprooted as well) and everything they've done for him, not to entertain X's offer. The ties are too deep for him just to leave without listening to what X has to offer.

I don't think this is an easy decision at all for Mack. His girls are at an age where they are involved in a ton of things, he's the main man at X and has everything he needs, he's elevated the recruiting profile, and I think he wants more than anything to prove X can get to the top of the mountain. And...he wants to continue to own UC and Cronin in every way possible.

The money is too much not to listen to Louisville, but I just don't see him as the type to bolt for cash. He has alot vested in a really, really good program. He might leave, but it will be a very, very hard decision for him.

I just dont get what you people think sometimes. Everyone bolts for the cash. Literally everyone. The Mark Few's of the world are the vast exception not the standard

That being said I hope I'm wrong and you guys are right.

[bleedXblue]

I just dont get what you people think sometimes. Everyone bolts for the cash. Literally everyone. The Mark Few's of the world are the vast exception not the standard

That being said I hope I'm wrong and you guys are right.

Add Wright, Marshall to that list as well......

[X-ceptional]

I just dont get what you people think sometimes. Everyone bolts for the cash. Literally everyone. The Mark Few's of the world are the vast exception not the standard

That being said I hope I'm wrong and you guys are right.

So.... specifically NOT everyone? I guess that was figuratively literally.

[OTRMUSKIE]

FWIW Seth Davis and ESPN were saying last night they think it’s a long shot that Mack goes to Louisville. Doesn’t mean anything coming from those two sources but it may give some hope.

[XUGRAD80]

I also think the U of L step from Xavier seems to be exaggerated here. Pitino had to cheat his way to get that program nationally relevant again. This is not Arizona from A10 Xavier.

I’m trying not to let my bias get in the way of a rational thought here - but I truly do think this might be a mistake.

UL is the most valuable basketball program in the country, according to Forbes. Xavier is 17th, but only worth less than 1/2 what UL is worth. UL has the top budget of any program in the country. They have absolutely no competition for the sports dollar in their city, unless you consider minor league baseball, soccer, and hocky competition. They play in an arena that almost every NBA team would consider an upgrade. They are total duchebags, but just basing things on a money and facilities basis, there is a HUGE jump from X to UL. I spent about an hour a week ago just walking around Schmidt Fieldhouse, thinking about where X has come from, and how it has been such a great journey. I can remember sitting in Cintas the summer before it opened and being blown away by how nice it was compared to Schmidt and the Gardens. I still think that it is a wonderful facility. But it’s no Yum Center. Xavier has a great program. I’m very proud to be an alumnus and a fan. But in terms of value, history, successes, and size of fan base, it’s no UL.

But I reckon that the Xavier administrators, coaching staff, and players have no trouble looking themselves in the mirror every morning. I don’t think the same people at UL can say the same thing. They have been cheating for years. They sold their soul to Addidas years ago and it brought them tons of cash.
But like a house of cards (pun intended) it’s all falling down on them now. Does Mack want to be a part of that? We shall see.

[XUBison]

Mack has had plenty of opportunities to chase the money. What I don’t get is, why Storyville? I don’t think Matta or especially Miller would have left X for that fleabag university.

[Xavier]

So.... specifically NOT everyone? I guess that was figuratively literally.

No kidding.

“Literally everyone leaves more money. Except for the people that don’t.”

[xukeith]

Mack has had plenty of opportunities to chase the money. What I don’t get is, why Storyville? I don’t think Matta or especially Miller would have left X for that fleabag university.

I am not sure Miller would have left for UL but Matta would have

It is a gigantic upgrade and an unbelievable budget. Mack would be compensated and his assistants, I imagine, would be paid very well.

Only negative is the constant pressure given it is the only thing of value in town. Every day during the year, the talk will be UL basketball from 80% of the sports fans in Louisville.
Less than 10% of Cincinnati are X fans and sports junkies. (That is a good thing)

[XUBison]

I am not sure Miller would have left for UL but Matta would have

It is a gigantic upgrade and an unbelievable budget. Mack would be compensated and his assistants, I imagine, would be paid very well.

Only negative is the constant pressure given it is the only thing of value in town. Every day during the year, the talk will be UL basketball from 80% of the sports fans in Louisville.
Less than 10% of Cincinnati are X fans and sports junkies. (That is a good thing)

Ummm... that is not the only negative at that grungeversity.

[Xville]

I don’t understand how any of you can think that Louisville and Xavier are remotely on the same level. From cash to facilities to fan base to conference it’s all superior. To think anything else, you live in a bubble or have some strong blue glasses on.

Yes they cheated, yes they were dirty, but regardless of all of that, it is still a superior job. Xavier has a great program and it is amazing what growth has occurred in the past 30 years there but Let’s just stop trying to convince ourselves that we are on the same level as a top 10 basketball program.