Filling out the last scholarships (Hankins Commit, Castlin Commit, Welage Commit)

[xu82]

Ducking a boat?

Was the boat he ducked of age?

[XUBison]

Oh no... he graped a lid?

[BandAid]

he fk'd a goat??

We have a separate thread discussing Mick Cronin.

[kellernr]

Just browse Twitter. You will find the info you are looking for on Jake Walter. No looking good.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[sirthought]

Just browse Twitter. You will find the info you are looking for on Jake Walter. No looking good.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

I'm finding nothing.

[GIMMFD]

I'm finding nothing.

Diddo, I tried searching every combination of words, I guess I don't follow the right people.

[kellernr]

Herehttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180603/a65bf6e80f5f103f3a11bf9ad325390f.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180603/3c6a1a48c858ad407820e1a9d2e2daf6.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180603/c1d9577241faeb76a984e231c7d8c69f.jpg

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[XU_Lou]

So where's the punchline?!?! This tweet thread still doesn't answer the question...

[paulxu]

Must be summer; we're posting UC twitter people about an X recruit.

[XUBison]

I'm finding nothing.

Neither am I. Oh well, guess our imaginations will just have to continue fueling rumor and innuendo.

[bjf123]

Has X issued anything official about pulling the scholarship? Unfortunately, in today’s culture, sexual assault can mean any number of things.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[GIMMFD]

So where's the punchline?!?! This tweet thread still doesn't answer the question...

Alleged sexual assault, which no idea what that means, but you know it's bad when a bunch of people say they don't want to touch it. Nothing official on X's part as of yet.

[xu82]

Alleged sexual assault, which no idea what that means, but you know it's bad when a bunch of people say they don't want to touch it. Nothing official on X's part as of yet.

Quietly move on with as little comment as possible. That’s what I expect.

[Drew]

Does it bother anyone else that this kid is losing his scholarship without being convicted of anything? What happened to good old "innocent until proven guilty"?

[Juice]

Does it bother anyone else that this kid is losing his scholarship without being convicted of anything? What happened to good old "innocent until proven guilty"?

1) That's in a court of law
2) For a school that doesn't know its head from its ass with Title IX matters, I'm not shocked if they go the overly cautious route.

[Xville]

1) That's in a court of law
2) For a school that doesn't know its head from its ass with Title IX matters, I'm not shocked if they go the overly cautious route.

3. He never should have had one from x in the first place.

[bjf123]

Does it bother anyone else that this kid is losing his scholarship without being convicted of anything? What happened to good old "innocent until proven guilty"?

With claims of sexual assault, it’s guilty until proven innocent, at least in the court of public opinion.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[RyanblockXU]

Does it bother anyone else that this kid is losing his scholarship without being convicted of anything? What happened to good old "innocent until proven guilty"?

I mean do you think Steele wants to start his legacy at XU with a recruit accused of something like this?

If he were on Campus and enrolled, maybe they let it play out with a suspension. But if the dude hasn't formally stepped foot on campus, its much better to just release his 'ship and move on. Add in that, while he did move into 4 star status on 247, he still is a long term project and he is replaceable.


Walters will be completely unfocused after all this anyway. He needs to first sort out his legal issues, and if thats successful, then enroll in a JR college far away from Cincinnati and try to restart his career from that point.

I imagine Xavier's response is pretty minimal. They don't want have any influence in the pending case so I'd just expect them to say nothing and move on.

[XU_Lou]

Hold on a second - do we really know that there was a sexual assault? So far we've only seen speculation - am I wrong on that? Moreover, there's still no indication that his scholly has been revoked. Verbal Commits still has him on the roster. As far as I've seen, we really don't know anything based in fact at this point, do we?

[xukeith]

Hold on a second - do we really know that there was a sexual assault? So far we've only seen speculation - am I wrong on that? Moreover, there's still no indication that his scholly has been revoked. Verbal Commits still has him on the roster. As far as I've seen, we really don't know anything based in fact at this point, do we?
Only Walter and his lawyer knows for sure what happened.

[xu82]

Only Walter and his lawyer knows for sure what happened.

...or maybe Walter and whoever else was there when it happened...

[xavierj]

Neither am I. Oh well, guess our imaginations will just have to continue fueling rumor and innuendo.

It’s not rumor and good luck finding info on a minor. It’s not being made up and there is a lot to it. A lot to the point that his scholarship has been pulled. I also don’t think Xavier is jumping the gun about innocent until proven guilty.

[xukeith]

...or maybe Walter and whoever else was there when it happened...

True. Maybe a bird(cardinal), squirrel, or ant were in on the action too.

[xukeith]

It’s not rumor and good luck finding info on a minor. It’s not being made up and there is a lot to it. A lot to the point that his scholarship has been pulled. I also don’t think Xavier is jumping the gun about innocent until proven guilty.

So you know the inside information and you are well aware of all circumstances in this case? i am glad you are a poster on this board so we can get accurate info as the year goes around.

[xavierj]

So you know the inside information and you are well aware of all circumstances in this case? i am glad you are a poster on this board so we can get accurate info as the year goes around.

I am aware of this situation. Not coming from anyone near Xavier. It’s just not a good situation.

[drudy23]

If the scholly has been pulled, why wouldn't Xavier say that?

And I'm sure a member of the media would have something by now. The rumors are out. Maybe not the details, but questions to Christopher and/or Steele on Walter's status. Why no reporting?

[xu82]

If the scholly has been pulled, why wouldn't Xavier say that?

And I'm sure a member of the media would have something by now. The rumors are out. Maybe not the details, but questions to Christopher and/or Steele on Walter's status. Why no reporting?


Let me start with....I don’t know squat about this situation. I’ll speculate about the X reaction, but not what may (or may not) have happened with this young man. Xavier has nothing to gain by saying anything. If the facts aren’t fully known, it’s too soon to speak. Let it play out. If he did do bad things, don’t draw attention to the association with him. If you can move on quietly and avoid negative publicity, why would you do it any other way?

Maybe I’m missing something. Questions will be asked at some point, but I wouldn’t go there before I had to, then I’d try to move on quickly. Just my guess. I’m sure plenty of people here know more about the situation and the workings of the program than I do. I hope it works out for all involved.

[Drew]

Ok, somewhat of an aside, but isn't sexual assault effectively impossible to prove?

Considering sexual acts almost always take place in private when will it not be a case of she said/he said? Even rape the guy could just claim it was consensual.

Not totally relevant, but I have been curious about this for a while and was wondering if anyone here could speak on it.

[muskiefan82]

First, let me say I have no idea what, if anything happened in this case, but to Drew I would say that the act can sometimes be proven and, if the perpetrator is 18 and the other person is significantly lower than that (less than 16 in most cases), then there CAN'T be consent. Again, I have no idea that this is anything close to what may or may not have happened in this case. For all I know, he got caught drinking a beer with people from UD in Dayton and that was enough to pull the scholly.

[IM4X]

Xavier has nothing to gain by saying anything. If the facts aren’t fully known, it’s too soon to speak. Let it play out. If he did do bad things, don’t draw attention to the association with him. If you can move on quietly and avoid negative publicity, why would you do it any other way?


This seems like a very logical explanation.

If there is in fact something so egregious that this kid did, it makes sense for X to let him know they no longer have a place for him and then quietly step away from the situation.

[markchal]

Ok, somewhat of an aside, but isn't sexual assault effectively impossible to prove?

Considering sexual acts almost always take place in private when will it not be a case of she said/he said? Even rape the guy could just claim it was consensual.

Not totally relevant, but I have been curious about this for a while and was wondering if anyone here could speak on it.

That's really quite something of an aside.

[MHettel]

I'm confused.

In most circumstances, doesn't the recuit sign one or more different types of paperwork, which in effect becomes binding for both the school and the student. I know there is the LOI paperwork, and maybe some sort of Financial aid paperwork as well.

I realize that kids sometimes want out of their commitment, and the school lets them go. Effectively waiving their rights to enforce the binding agreement.

But how does it work the other direction? How does the school just "pull" the offer? Seems like this may have happened to Kennedy, informally, which led to him asking to be relased from his commitment. Sounds like we just told him "you aren't good enough, and you wont play. So it's in your interest to open your recruitment."

But this Walter situation? How does that work? What if he just says "no, I plan to come to XU and play?"

what am I missing?

[kellernr]

So are we only going to have 9 scholarship players next year?

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[whopper]

I assume some here have information that is not public yet so from 700 miles away in Conn hard to judge. This is a team that needs to focus this year. I will focus and hope that the worst fears are not realized.

[paulxu]

I frankly can't keep up with these threads to know who is, and who is not, on our team next year.

But with a lot of open scholarships, I'm surprised with our recent record (both on the court AND with grad transfers) that we don't have more graduate transfers coming here to play for a year.

[kellernr]

I frankly can't keep up with these threads to know who is, and who is not, on our team next year.

But with a lot of open scholarships, I'm surprised with our recent record (both on the court AND with grad transfers) that we don't have more graduate transfers coming here to play for a year.We have 3 for next year. Indont think there are many ledtnout there that could help. Still not sure why we backed off Kennedy unless Steele is looking to bring guys in next year that would start over him.

I think we return
Scruggs
Goodin
Marshall
Jones
Harden

Incoming freshman
James

Grad Transfers
Castlin
Welage
Hankins

Half of the team is new. If he holds onto the open scholarships we are looking at this next year

Seniors
Goodin
Jones

Juniors
Marshall
Scruggs
Harden

Sophomore
James

Freshman/transfers
King - hopefully stays committed
6 open scholarships



Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[GIMMFD]

So are we only going to have 9 scholarship players next year?

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

Looks like it, which is a little underwhelming for live scrimmaging in practice, but a rotation of 8-9 usually can be pretty solid, guys are definitely going to have to take a big jump this summer.

[Masterofreality]

From the AFO Golf Outing yesterday, it sounds like there will be another "piece" added to the roster next week.

Stay tuned.......

[xu82]

Looks like it, which is a little underwhelming for live scrimmaging in practice, but a rotation of 8-9 usually can be pretty solid, guys are definitely going to have to take a big jump this summer.

One foot, or two?

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

From the AFO Golf Outing yesterday, it sounds like there will be another "piece" added to the roster next week.

Stay tuned.......

Well that would be a nice surprise, as getting to 10 scholarship guys would be big, for scrimmaging, depth, and (hopefully none, but) any potential injuries. Any hint at whether it is of the grad transfer or 2018 HS variety?

[paulxu]

Thanks for the clarification.
Would like to have seen Steele land more than one freshman.
Guess changing coaches has a lot of impact.

[XUGRAD80]

Would not surprise me if X has another transfer coming in, but this time a non-grad type that has to sit out a year. A center or PF type would be ideal. X loses all of its size after this next year and I hope they won’t have to rely on freshman to man the post the next year.

[muskienick]

Would not surprise me if X has another transfer coming in, but this time a non-grad type that has to sit out a year. A center or PF type would be ideal. X loses all of its size after this next year and I hope they won’t have to rely on freshman to man the post the next year.

Not quite all of our size since Tyrique Jones will be returning unless you know something the rest of us don't know!

[GIMMFD]

Not quite all of our size since Tyrique Jones will be returning unless you know something the rest of us don't know!

Yeah but Tyrique will be the only one, we're gonna really need to get some bodies, otherwise Naji is gonna have to be running as a 4 for us, and it's not ideal having depth especially with Tyrique's fouling habits. I could definitely see a traditional big transfer, not terribly sure who's on the market though as of now.

[scoscox]

We seem to be closing in on multiple power forwards in the 2019 class according to recruiting services, but I think we'll probably go after another transfer as well.

[xu82]

In Steele I trust.

[XUGRAD80]

Not quite all of our size since Tyrique Jones will be returning unless you know something the rest of us don't know!

Ty will return (I’ll bet), but he really isn’t all that tall. I’d say he is a realistic 6’8” at best. He also has had some known injury and knee problems. Can’t see him playing more than 25 min. per game because of needing rest and also foul tendencies. Hope I’m wrong, but doubt if I am. Many of the other BE schools are going to have at least one 6’10” or better on their squads, and some may have more than one. Going to be hard to match up with players like those with just Ty.

[xu82]

Ty will return (I’ll bet), but he really isn’t all that tall. I’d say he is a realistic 6’8” at best. He also has had some known injury and knee problems. Can’t see him playing more than 25 min. per game because of needing rest and also foul tendencies. Hope I’m wrong, but doubt if I am. Many of the other BE schools are going to have at least one 6’10” or better on their squads, and some may have more than one. Going to be hard to match up with players like those with just Ty.

I fully agree we need some bigger guys and depth, but I’m amazed at how much Tyrique has improved at avoiding fouls. Still, we need more help there.

[IM4X]

Ty will return (I’ll bet), but he really isn’t all that tall. I’d say he is a realistic 6’6” at best.

Fixed it for you.

Love the guy... he is quite athletic and plays much bigger than his height, but he clearly looked shorter than Gates (listed at 6'8) when they stood next to each other.

[Strange Brew]

Fixed it for you.

Love the guy... he is quite athletic and plays much bigger than his height, but he clearly looked shorter than Gates (listed at 6'8) when they stood next to each other.

Gates is actually 6’2. 6’8 with the flat top..

[IM4X]

We seem to be closing in on multiple power forwards in the 2019 class according to recruiting services, but I think we'll probably go after another transfer as well.

Yes... Some seem to have way more offers than others yet are rated about the same. Some look a little raw... some look ready to go... some look like they have great range... some appear uninterested in shooting from outside. I say... take them all.

[GIMMFD]

Yes... Some seem to have way more offers than others yet are rated about the same. Some look a little raw... some look ready to go... some look like they have great range... some appear uninterested in shooting from outside. I say... take them all.

Banners has a great update on who we're targeting for the 2019 class: https://www.bannersontheparkway.com/2018/6/4/17280218/xavier-2019-recruiting-update

Looks like we could have a really good class if all goes well, hoping that some of those big guys commit, I'm sure knowing they'd get immediate playing time at a good program has to be at least a little enticing.

[XUGRAD80]

Gates is actually 6’2. 6’8 with the flat top..

LOL

Are you saying that college height listings are fabricated? Now why would they do that? Hahahahaha

[Lloyd Braun]

Height is exaggerated across the board for most everyone but Tyrique is legitimately 6’7”. The question is should we count height with shoes? I think so because they play in shoes. Gates measured 6’ 7 1/4” without shoes at he combine (6’ 8 1/2” with shoes). JP measured 6’5” with shoes. Jones probably is 6’8” in shoes. Definitely not 6’9” as he is listed.

[94GRAD]

Gates is actually 6’2. 6’8 with the flat top..

Nickname Fletch?

[MHettel]

Height is exaggerated across the board for most everyone but Tyrique is legitimately 6’7”. The question is should we count height with shoes? I think so because they play in shoes. Gates measured 6’ 7 1/4” without shoes at he combine (6’ 8 1/2” with shoes). JP measured 6’5” with shoes. Jones probably is 6’8” in shoes. Definitely not 6’9” as he is listed.

Isn't it all relative?

I mean, if the heights of ALL the players are exagerated a little bit, then isn't it still true that a guy listed at 6'9" is gonna be taller than a guy listed at 6'8", even if they are really 6'7" & 6'6"?

i think the overstating of height is "calibrated", and as such has no meaning.

[IM4X]

Isn't it all relative?

I mean, if the heights of ALL the players are exagerated a little bit, then isn't it still true that a guy listed at 6'9" is gonna be taller than a guy listed at 6'8", even if they are really 6'7" & 6'6"?

i think the overstating of height is "calibrated", and as such has no meaning.

Except when a guy listed at 6'9" is two inches shorter than a guy listed at 6'8". Jones plays bigger than his actual height so it is not such a big issue with him.

In general, you'd feel a little better about have 6'8" bigs who are listed at 6'10" than having bigs who are listed at 6'8" but are actually 6'6".

And yes... The sentence above was sponsored by Captain Obvious.

[xu95]

Well that would be a nice surprise, as getting to 10 scholarship guys would be big, for scrimmaging, depth, and (hopefully none, but) any potential injuries. Any hint at whether it is of the grad transfer or 2018 HS variety?

2018 HS Variety. Maybe someone we have talked about ad nauseam on here.

xu95

[muskiefan82]

2018 HS Variety. Maybe someone we have talked about ad nauseam on here.

xu95

Snipe has no more eligibility, does he?

[IM4X]

Gates is actually 6Â’2. 6Â’8 with the flat top..

"Three point field goal. Three point field goal. Brew for Xavier."

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

2018 HS Variety. Maybe someone we have talked about ad nauseam on here.

xu95

Lol my brain isn’t currently functioning at full xavier basketball capacity because of work demands, but I can’t think of a 2018 kid we’ve talked about much. Do you mean Kennedy? Because that would be hilarious.

[XMuskieFTW]

Lol my brain isn’t currently functioning at full xavier basketball capacity because of work demands, but I can’t think of a 2018 kid we’ve talked about much. Do you mean Kennedy? Because that would be hilarious.

https://247sports.com/PlayerInstitution/Keonte-Kennedy-at-Westlake-192380/CurrentExpertPredictions

lol

[xu95]

Lol my brain isn’t currently functioning at full xavier basketball capacity because of work demands, but I can’t think of a 2018 kid we’ve talked about much. Do you mean Kennedy? Because that would be hilarious.

It's going to be hilarious.

xu95

[xu82]

Snipe has no more eligibility, does he?

Only in the wee hours of the night, and that’s not when they play.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Hilarious in the sense that many people on the board thought it was no longer an option for him. And also hilarious for all the SMU fans on twitter. Not in a demeaning way, as X isn't in the position currently to turn down capable (or once thought of as capable) players. Right now, Xavier is in the position to have 6 scholarships open next year (5 if KK commits and Elias King stays committed). With Samari Curtis decommitting, X shouldn't be in the business of turning an '18 player away for what might be a '19 commit who is higher ranked. I just think recruiting is so fluid, and the offseason shows that, that it is a pretty risky strategy. If he commits, great. If he doesn't, it isn't the end of the world.

[MHettel]

Except when a guy listed at 6'9" is two inches shorter than a guy listed at 6'8". Jones plays bigger than his actual height so it is not such a big issue with him.

In general, you'd feel a little better about have 6'8" bigs who are listed at 6'10" than having bigs who are listed at 6'8" but are actually 6'6".

And yes... The sentence above was sponsored by Captain Obvious.

Why dont we just measure height as standing reach? Honestly, what does the distance from the ground to the top of someones head have to do with anything?

What if someone has a really long neck? or a narrow & long head?

We should measure from the ground to the top of their shoulders (where their arms start), and from the ground to the end of their extended fingers above their head. So I know both of those measurements, and the difference between the 2 would essentially be the length their arms.

im bored

[mistabeecee41]

Hilarious in the sense that many people on the board thought it was no longer an option for him. And also hilarious for all the SMU fans on twitter. Not in a demeaning way, as X isn't in the position currently to turn down capable (or once thought of as capable) players. Right now, Xavier is in the position to have 6 scholarships open next year (5 if KK commits and Elias King stays committed). With Samari Curtis decommitting, X shouldn't be in the business of turning an '18 player away for what might be a '19 commit who is higher ranked. I just think recruiting is so fluid, and the offseason shows that, that it is a pretty risky strategy. If he commits, great. If he doesn't, it isn't the end of the world.

i apologize for my know-it-all comments on the Keonte situation...........

though I was right at the time.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

I was told by my only semi-inside source that it really didn't look to be an option for him anymore, so I think most of those assumptions were right. But, I think circumstances changed, i.e. Samari decommit, and it had an impact on the viability of it, for both sides. Never a dull offseason. Just looking forward to seeing another season of X basketball, and especially seeing the sophomores (and juniors, too) make a big jump and the Steele Era to begin.

[xu95]

He obviously wanted to come to Xavier and the de-commitment was more on Xavier than on him. Obviously Xavier is hurting for eligible bodies next year, so they are willing to take a flyer on him.

xu95

[kellernr]

I think he will get more minutes than Harden unless Harden puts on some weight. Kid can shoot but damn is he skinny

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[Lloyd Braun]

So Harden is too skinny but Kennedy isn’t? Ok

Unless Harden has issues between the ears he will get nice minutes this year.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Guys Harden was a higher rated bigger guard in last year’s class that was a better class for guards. I am of the few on here that believe in Harden. I think he is going to be a good four year players


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[IM4X]

Why dont we just measure height as standing reach? Honestly, what does the distance from the ground to the top of someones head have to do with anything?

What if someone has a really long neck? or a narrow & long head?

We should measure from the ground to the top of their shoulders (where their arms start), and from the ground to the end of their extended fingers above their head. So I know both of those measurements, and the difference between the 2 would essentially be the length their arms.

im bored

Hmm... I guess you could simplify it so there would just be one official way to measure players (from the ground to the top of their extended fingers) and we'd all say, "That froward X just landed is 9'1" to the top of his extended vertical reach."


By that new standard, Frease and Reynolds would probably be considered about the same height.

[XU 87]

I am aware of this situation. Not coming from anyone near Xavier. It’s just not a good situation.

I agree it's not a good situation. That said, and based on what what I just heard, there are two sides to every story.

[whopper]

It's June and players will start reporting. Hope it is cleared up. I liked what I saw and as much as I like our grad transfers we need 4 year players as well. As a Catholic school lug I pull for all the other lugs

[NoDak]

It is our board’s understanding that Geno Crandall, a 6’4” Sr guard, is grad transferring to Xavier.

http://www.undsports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=209692739&DB_OEM_ID=13500

This would be a big blow to our program. Crandall with another Minneapolis guard were the major reason for getting a dance ticket two seasons ago.

We lost some power players from that team too, as one went to Washington St and the other, a 7’ footer, fortuitously joined Loyola for their Final Four trip.

Rumors had been that Crandall was going to transfer, but to Minnesota. Best wishes to him and Xavier an the upcoming season.

[GIMMFD]

Guys Harden was a higher rated bigger guard in last year’s class that was a better class for guards. I am of the few on here that believe in Harden. I think he is going to be a good four year players


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Nah I'm with you, Harden was in a tough situation last year with a loaded roster ahead of him, he's going to be solid in my opinion. We didn't redshirt him for a reason, obviously just in case an injury or something happened, but he got some valuable game time, albeit in garbage time, but it still helps to adjust to the pace from HS to Division I. He's definitely going to get some quality minutes next season.

[letskeepitreal]

If he’s not a solid contributor next year he’ll be gone after the season to another program that can benefit from his talents. The world of college basketball can be a little cruel that way but such is life. Don’t forget these kids are getting a free education out of this.

[D-West & PO-Z]

If he’s not a solid contributor next year he’ll be gone after the season to another program that can benefit from his talents. The world of college basketball can be a little cruel that way but such is life. Don’t forget these kids are getting a free education out of this.

Oh how many Xavier greats would have never been if this was the truth.........

[D-West & PO-Z]

Nah I'm with you, Harden was in a tough situation last year with a loaded roster ahead of him, he's going to be solid in my opinion. We didn't redshirt him for a reason, obviously just in case an injury or something happened, but he got some valuable game time, albeit in garbage time, but it still helps to adjust to the pace from HS to Division I. He's definitely going to get some quality minutes next season.

Yeah he has some solid minutes coming his way. He was buried behind some of our best players ever on what may have been our best roster ever. Geesh!

EVERY year without fail some Xavier fans write off one kid or another who didn't do anything after a year or two. So foolish considering some of the Xavier greats who became Xavier greats as Juniors and Seniors. Will never understand it.

[XUGRAD80]

It is our board’s understanding that Geno Crandall, a 6’4” Sr guard, is grad transferring to Xavier.

http://www.undsports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=209692739&DB_OEM_ID=13500

This would be a big blow to our program. Crandall with another Minneapolis guard were the major reason for getting a dance ticket two seasons ago.

We lost some power players from that team too, as one went to Washington St and the other, a 7’ footer, fortuitously joined Loyola for their Final Four trip.

Rumors had been that Crandall was going to transfer, but to Minnesota. Best wishes to him and Xavier an the upcoming season.

Can anyone verify this?

[Juice]

Can anyone verify this?

I heard a rumor of it a few weeks ago but in no way can verify it.

[scoscox]

He looks really good.

[muskienick]

He looks really good.

Reports have it that he's a very good shooter and a fine defender. His one weakness appears to be his A:TO ratio.

[JTG]

Well the last guy we got from Minnesota worked out pretty well.

[BMoreX]

Can anyone verify this?

It doesn't mean much but he's recently followed the entire Xavier basketball coaching staff.

[xukeith]

Hold on a second - do we really know that there was a sexual assault? So far we've only seen speculation - am I wrong on that? Moreover, there's still no indication that his scholly has been revoked. Verbal Commits still has him on the roster. As far as I've seen, we really don't know anything based in fact at this point, do we?

He is still on the roster. No official removal of scholarship.

[Xuperman]

What's up with the lack of excitement on the KK re-commitment?

[whopper]

Read the Keonte Kennedy article(interesting that he recommitted) and heard nothing at all about Walter. He had a nice article in The Athletic about him working on fitness, etc. Hope it is resolved correctly and if so some 4 year players to follow. I sent the Welage, Castin and Hankins youtubes to friends and they are wowed (but you could probably make any player look like lebron with highlights only) . Speaking of Lebron and hand, the ABC crew said a number of times "he has to finish that play" and I noticed he want with left hand like Cousy on a couple of drives instead of the unstoppable dominant right hand and it sure looked like he was hobbled in hindsight

[noteggs]

What's up with the lack of excitement on the KK re-commitment?

I’ve been reading this site for about 9 months and have enjoyed the posts and wealth of information! Since I’m curious , I thought I would finally join and comment. I’m surprised as well about the few responses about KK re-committing. His athleticism and arm length reminds of a lot players that we would be thrilled to have in the past.

[Xuperman]

I guess people here have hurt feelings over his de-commit. Could very well start along side Paul in the fall of '20 if he stays at X and avoids injury. If he can come in with a fierce attitude, focused on defense and out play Castlin in practice, he could see some significant minutes.

[xu82]

I’m certainly glad he’s coming, but it’s hard to have the same excitement and enthusiasm a second time, especially after almost being jilted. But that’s in the past and I just hope and pray for big things from him during our deep tournament runs!!!

[GIMMFD]

I also think it's the fact that Harden is a bit more athletic and we didn't see much of him last season (but like I said behind the most talented roster in school history) and that Harden was ranked higher by recruiting services. Kennedy could very well be a solid contributor and a great 4 year guy for X, but there's some recency bias going on as well since Harden and him are in the same mold.

[Xuperman]

I am hoping Keonte comes in chewin' bubblegum and kickin' ass and at some point running out of bubblegum! Harden to me looked uncomfortable and somewhat overwhelmed, granted a very small sample size. Everyone here should root for our limited '18 class to come up BIG, so we don't have to scramble in the transfer market like this year.

[xukeith]

I am hoping Keonte comes in chewin' bubblegum and kickin' ass and at some point running out of bubblegum! Harden to me looked uncomfortable and somewhat overwhelmed, granted a very small sample size. Everyone here should root for our limited '18 class to come up BIG, so we don't have to scramble in the transfer market like this year.



True. But the guards will be starving for playing time. Q, Scruggs, Hardin, Castlin, Kennedy al fighting for playing time. Hardin or Kennedy hopefully be like BJ Raymond and get better and better and blossom as juniors.

[whopper]

I think that some of them can play the 3 with Naj 4 against speed teams. I hope a guy like Castin with one year can earn his time through tough senior experienced play. Welage, Hankin are such mysteries to me but love their youtube. I am so used to the fixed rotation of the past few years especially after Sumner went down this will be a big change

[GIMMFD]

I think that some of them can play the 3 with Naj 4 against speed teams. I hope a guy like Castin with one year can earn his time through tough senior experienced play. Welage, Hankin are such mysteries to me but love their youtube. I am so used to the fixed rotation of the past few years especially after Sumner went down this will be a big change

I agree next year is gonna be really strange not seeing Tre and JP out there, I think we have the roster to match-up pretty well with different styles of team, we can go small and play fast, or we can put in Hank and Rique together and let them go to work to slow these down if necessary. It's gonna be interesting to see how this all shakes up throughout the offseason.

[webxu]

With the amount of guards on the roster currently, wonder if Kennedy could redshirt...

[kellernr]

With the amount of guards on the roster currently, wonder if Kennedy could redshirt...

Over on the musketeermadness forum they are saying Harden has left the team. Can anyone verify this?

[More Cowbell]

Over on the musketeermadness forum they are saying Harden has left the team. Can anyone verify this?

Steele didn’t mention him when he was going through returning players.

[kellernr]

Steele didn’t mention him when he was going through returning players.I'm hoping he stays.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[GoMuskies]

What a weird offseason.

[muskiefan82]

They'll need to add The Clash to pre-game music next year.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

That sucks if this is true. I really hope he is staying, if he left I hope that means Crandall is coming.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[muskiefan82]

X is like the opposite of UK. Instead of 1 and done, X is done then one.

[Cheesehead]

The man censored me. Oh well

[Muskie]

The man censored me. Oh well

Nothing Personal!

[XU 87]

This rumor got started by one post on MM asking, "Is Harden transferring? Someone told me he left the team." And I have now heard it is a false rumor.

[X-man]

This rumor got started by one post on MM asking, "Is Harden transferring? Someone told me he left the team." And I have now heard it is a false rumor.

See the quote below from Musketeer Madness, a quote that confirms what you are saying about Harden. I'm glad he is staying because we are likely going to need his shooting skill this season.

"My understanding is that when the season was over Steele spoke to harden and his parents and convi fed (sic) him to stay as he was strongly considering leaving. I’m glad Kennedy decided to come to X but Harden has certainly show. Loyalty or at least decided to stay based on his communication with coaches."

[noteggs]

They'll need to add The Clash to pre-game music next year.

Ok...that is hilarious ...a good song too!

[Masterofreality]

Over on the musketeermadness forum they are saying Harden has left the team. Can anyone verify this?

And you actually look and believe anything on the other board forum? :-)

[UCGRAD4X]

And you actually look and believe anything on the other board forum? :-)

What other board forum? :whack:

[bjf123]

Ok...that is hilarious ...a good song too!

Took me a minute. First things that popped into my head were London Calling and Rock the Casbah.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[throwbackmuskie]

Looks like Crandall from North Dakota is coming?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[GIMMFD]

What other board forum? :whack:

Amen, only one I use is XHoops. You're welcome Muskie.

[kellernr]

Looks like Crandall from North Dakota is coming?


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkHow many 6'4 or 6'5 guards do we need? If Crandall comes here I think that gives us 7 guys 6'6 or under.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[XU3232]

Looks like Crandall from North Dakota is coming?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk


We can only hope! I think there is a good chance this happens though which would be huge.

[xu82]

What other board forum? :whack:

I wouldn’t even know where else to go. I see no reason to start looking.

[XU3232]

How many 6'4 or 6'5 guards do we need? If Crandall comes here I think that gives us 7 guys 6'6 or under.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk


We definitely want this kid believe me... he’s a great player and shooter too.

[xu82]

How many 6'4 or 6'5 guards do we need? If Crandall comes here I think that gives us 7 guys 6'6 or under.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

It seems the game is going to a bunch of 6’4”-6’7” guys...and a big body. Easy to switch on D and easy to run.

[kellernr]

It seems the game is going to a bunch of 6’4”-6’7” guys...and a big body. Easy to switch on D and easy to run.True. I guess this also goes with Steele wanting to press more. Just a little worried that the only big guy we have is a D2 transfer. Jones is a beast sometimes but is injury prone.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[xu82]

True. I guess this also goes with Steele wanting to press more. Just a little worried that the only big guy we have is a D2 transfer. Jones is a beast sometimes but is injury prone.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

I’m sure another big is a BIG priority.

[kellernr]

I’m sure another big is a BIG priority.Little late to be trying to find a big that can be productive for the upcoming season.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[xu82]

Little late to be trying to find a big that can be productive for the upcoming season.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

The price of transition. Overall I’m thrilled with what they have pulled off.

[GIMMFD]

The price of transition. Overall I’m thrilled with what they have pulled off.

Agreed '82, we've got some quality coming in, and it really became a pretty smooth transition to a new staff, hopefully these guys can gel together pretty quick, wonder if Ben Johnson had something to do with Crandall since he's a Minnesota boy?? If so, then Johnson and Hayes have really started out hot pulling their wait (granted let's wait until these kids get to campus, but you have to be a little exited)

[Juice]

I’m sure another big is a BIG priority.

Nah, not with Naji, Welage, and Dontarius on the roster.

[xu82]

Nah, not with Naji, Welage, and Dontarius on the roster.

I meant going forward more than immediately. This should be a very unique transition year. Wow...

I’m probably a bigger Tyrique fan than most. His ability to slow down the foul train has me encouraged. Now work on the FT’s.

[GIMMFD]

I meant going forward more than immediately. This should be a very unique transition year. Wow...

I’m probably a bigger Tyrique fan than most. His ability to slow down the foul train has me encouraged. Now work on the FT’s.

He went up from 48% to about 58%, if he could magically get another 10% there, and shoot around 68% this year I'd be ecstatic. I'm sure some time in the gym will help tremendously, I'm a pretty big Rique fan too, he's a monster, and a pleasure to watch at times, he has the ability to be VERY solid for us going forward.

[paulxu]

Arrrrrrrrrrrrgh.........

[muskiefan82]

And that was for?

[BandAid]

National “talk like a pirate” day is in September, so that’s not it...

[muskiefan82]

Arrrrrrrrrrrrgh.........

Trollhunters fan?

2291

[markchal]

I meant going forward more than immediately. This should be a very unique transition year. Wow...

I’m probably a bigger Tyrique fan than most. His ability to slow down the foul train has me encouraged. Now work on the FT’s.

It was interesting hearing Steele at the golf outing talk about how Jones played at 260 last year and how he's challenged him to get to 235 this year so he can play longer stretches.

[Lloyd Braun]

It was interesting hearing Steele at the golf outing talk about how Jones played at 260 last year and how he's challenged him to get to 235 this year so he can play longer stretches.

And shoot 3s

[bleedXblue]

I have no issue with wanting guys who are 6'9 to take 3's. Look at Spellman from Villanova.

BUT, I do not see that in Jones game AT ALL. He looks to be a pure post player to me.

I guess if he loses some weight and becomes a lot more mobile theres a chance......

[Muskie]

I have no issue with wanting guys who are 6'9 to take 3's. Look at Spellman from Villanova.

BUT, I do not see that in Jones game AT ALL. He looks to be a pure post player to me.

I guess if he loses some weight and becomes a lot more mobile theres a chance......

Jones will play more when he gets the fouls under control. Maybe the weight would help with knee issues (which he seems to have sometimes). If X is going to be successful this year, the Jones Enigma needs a solution.

[markchal]

Jones will play more when he gets the fouls under control. Maybe the weight would help with knee issues (which he seems to have sometimes). If X is going to be successful this year, the Jones Enigma needs a solution.

He seemed to be much better with the fouls last year, I think it was more of a conditioning thing for him last year (he frequently seemed gassed running up and down the floor). He also had two pretty good players in the same position, so there's that as well. We're gonna need a lot more from him this year, and I think he's gonna deliver.

[D-West & PO-Z]

He seemed to be much better with the fouls last year, I think it was more of a conditioning thing for him last year (he frequently seemed gassed running up and down the floor). He also had two pretty good players in the same position, so there's that as well. We're gonna need a lot more from him this year, and I think he's gonna deliver.

I agree. With our history of big men making big jumps from underclassmen to upperclassmen I am feeling real good about Jones. He is way ahead of some of our recent better big men at this point in his career.

[Cheesehead]

Nothing Personal!

I get it. I should have known better.

[paulxu]

I meant going forward.


going forward.

https://media0.giphy.com/media/l4Ki2obCyAQS5WhFe/giphy.gif

[Olsingledigit]

True. I guess this also goes with Steele wanting to press more. Just a little worried that the only big guy we have is a D2 transfer. Jones is a beast sometimes but is injury prone.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

But he happens to be the D2 player of the year.

[kellernr]

But he happens to be the D2 player of the year.That would be equivalent to mediocre D 1 player

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[scoscox]

Max Strus turned out to be pretty darn good. Hopefully, Hankins will enjoy similar success in the transition.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Michigan had that Robinson guy who was a DIII player who ended up being a really solid player for them.

[paulxu]

The Iceman begs to differ.

[Mrs. Garrett]

But he happens to be the D2 player of the year.

I also see him as being the replacement for the kid from Dartmouth that de-committed. In the end a pretty even trade-off IMO.

[GIMMFD]

That would be equivalent to mediocre D 1 player

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

Ben Wallace carved out a pretty good career in the NBA being a D-II player

[kellernr]

Ben Wallace carved out a pretty good career in the NBA being a D-II playerHow many d2 transfers end up having an impact on the d1 team they transfer to or even make the NBA. It's a very low %.

I'm not saying he's going to be trash. Im just saying I don't think he will be a big difference maker this year. If we had him for 2 years I could see him making a big contribution.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[muskiefan82]

Earl the Pearl, George Gervin, A.J.English, and Rick Mahorn were pretty good

[kellernr]

Earl the Pearl, George Gervin, A.J.English, and Rick Mahorn were pretty goodTalking about players from this generation. And guys that are in the NBA. English went undrafted.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[XU 87]

Earl the Pearl, George Gervin, A.J.English, and Rick Mahorn were pretty good

Dennis Rodman

[kellernr]

Dennis RodmanLet's only name guys that made it to the league once the 1 and done rule was implemented. Naming guys that played in the 70s, 80s and 90s is irrelevant.

Robinson from Michigan played 1 year of d2 then 3 at Michigan. Had 3 years to develop against D1 talent. Taking on a d2 grad transfer only gives you a few months to learn the system and gel with teammates.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Let's only name guys that made it to the league once the 1 and done rule was implemented. Naming guys that played in the 70s, 80s and 90s is irrelevant.

Robinson from Michigan played 1 year of d2 then 3 at Michigan. Had 3 years to develop against D1 talent. Taking on a d2 grad transfer only gives you a few months to learn the system and gel with teammates.


Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

In Robinson’s first year at Michigan, after transferring from the D3 level, not D2, he averaged 11, 3.5 boards and 2 assists. I’d say it’s easier for a shooter to keep shooting when he takes a step up in competition, but Hankins was playing a level up, was the NPOY, and many have stated he would’ve gone at least MAC if he wasn’t from northern Michigan and didn’t get hurt his senior year of HS. He’s not going to be Kanter, but he should contribute on both ends of the floor.

[XU 87]

Let's only name guys that made it to the league once the 1 and done rule was implemented. Naming guys that played in the 70s, 80s and 90s is irrelevant.

Robinson from Michigan played 1 year of d2 then 3 at Michigan. Had 3 years to develop against D1 talent. Taking on a d2 grad transfer only gives you a few months to learn the system and gel with teammates.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

Bob Dandridge

[muskiefan82]

Wasn't Hankins a likely d1 recruit until he got hurt?

[noteggs]

Let's only name guys that made it to the league once the 1 and done rule was implemented. Naming guys that played in the 70s, 80s and 90s is irrelevant.

Robinson from Michigan played 1 year of d2 then 3 at Michigan. Had 3 years to develop against D1 talent. Taking on a d2 grad transfer only gives you a few months to learn the system and gel with teammates.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

I agree one and done has made it more difficult for D2 players. However, I think it’s more about when and how a kid leaves high school. Scottie Pippen was only 6’2”ish when he entered D2 Arkansas St and was drafted at 6’7”. As someone mentioned, Zac broke his foot (actually twice) and scared a lot of recruiters.

[Olsingledigit]

That would be equivalent to mediocre D 1 player

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

Based on what?

[kellernr]

I agree one and done has made it more difficult for D2 players. However, I think it’s more about when and how a kid leaves high school. Scottie Pippen was only 6’2”ish when he entered D2 Arkansas St and was drafted at 6’7”. As someone mentioned, Zac broke his foot (actually twice) and scared a lot of recruiters.Again, I never said he wouldn't be good. I just said he wasn't going to come in here and be an al conference guy. It's a legit concern since our 1 experienced big has constant knee issues and can't play for long stretches. Hopefully offseason conditioning and weight loss can correct that.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Does mediocre = good?

[kellernr]

Does mediocre = good?Serviceable

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[X-Expert]

Jones was a good 3rd offensive option at the 5 last year. He does not have the polish, can't hit FTs consistently, and is very foul prone. He had some good games but misses point blank lay-ups. ON the positive, he is a very good rebounder and defender. All that being said, SOM really didn't start to become a force until the BE tourney his junior year. X needs Hankins to be productive. At least right now, X doesn't have proven good outside shooters at this level (except maybe Welage). I really hope that X has a great D next year

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Think serviceable is definitely a better/closer word. I think if he can come and by the middle of the big east season be averaging around 7.5/5 that would be pretty good, and not crazy expectations. He should be able to block a couple shots too, from the looks of it. Whether it’s bexause he’s good enough (hopefully) or not, he’s going to play a meaningful role next year.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Let's only name guys that made it to the league once the 1 and done rule was implemented. Naming guys that played in the 70s, 80s and 90s is irrelevant.

Robinson from Michigan played 1 year of d2 then 3 at Michigan. Had 3 years to develop against D1 talent. Taking on a d2 grad transfer only gives you a few months to learn the system and gel with teammates.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

D3 and his best year statistically was his first with Michigan.

[GIMMFD]

Wasn't Hankins a likely d1 recruit until he got hurt?

Yes he was, nothing MAJOR MAJOR, but was still a D1 prospect until breaking his foot, I don't think he's going to be a world beater necessarily, but I think he'll be serviceable. We can't really write the book on him until we see him play, I mean come on, how many of us thought Karem Kanter was going to be as good as he was for us?

[kellernr]

Yes he was, nothing MAJOR MAJOR, but was still a D1 prospect until breaking his foot, I don't think he's going to be a world beater necessarily, but I think he'll be serviceable. We can't really write the book on him until we see him play, I mean come on, how many of us thought Karem Kanter was going to be as good as he was for us?True. Kanter surprised the hell out of me. Moved so slow but somehow got past defenders.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[muskiefan82]

Kanter won the shootout last year. UC did not gameplan for him. Why would they?

[XMuskieFTW]

Kanter went from averaging 11/6 at Green Bay to 11/4.5 at X. There was no real drop off. Yea D2 isn't the Horizon, but Hankins was the best player in D2. I think he's going to come in and average about 9/5 and play solid defense. Couple that with Tyrique averaging about 9/7 and I think we're looking good.

That would be our bigs averaging 18/12 and providing above average defense.
The year with Farr, Reynolds, and Sean, the bigs averaged 19.9/13.7 per 40.
The year with Gaston, Sean, and Tyrique, our bigs averaged 16.4/11.3 per 40.
Last year, our bigs averaged 21.4/10.6 per 40.

I think we'll definitely see a drop in offensive production from the 5 from last year, but we'll definitely be better defensively/tougher down low.

[XU 87]

How many d2 transfers end up having an impact on the d1 team they transfer to or even make the NBA. It's a very low %.

I'm not saying he's going to be trash. Im just saying I don't think he will be a big difference maker this year. If we had him for 2 years I could see him making a big contribution.

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/max-strus-1.html

I guess we'll see.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Next year’s team is going to be fun as always. We have a glut of 6’3 to 6’7 guard/wings and only two real post players.

Do we know Jake Walter is out for sure? Assuming yes, any post injury is a issue. What people aren’t speaking about is the addition of shooters. Welage, Castlin, Harden (in High School) can all shoot. Marshall and Scruggs showed signs last year that they can shoot.

I have no idea what we run, but defense should improve.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lloyd Braun]

Myles Hanson is transferring (https://twitter.com/myleshanson4/status/1006570817067671552?s=12) to X.

Not sure if he will take a scholly or not... I’m sure someone in the know can shed some light on that. Jim Engles having a tough time at Columbia?

[xu95]

I thought I read somewhere that he would be a walk on. I could be wrong though.

xu95

[drudy23]

Hope these dudes are good. If not, we've got a whole bunch of fouls to give.

[XUMIOH12]

I thought I read somewhere that he would be a walk on. I could be wrong though.

xu95

i hope that is the case

[MHettel]

hanson makes a ton of sense as a walk on. Not so much if he's taking a scholarship.

2/3rds of his shot attempts as a freshman were from 3, and he shot 28%. played in 19 games, averaging 10 minutes in those. Seems like a walkon that could contrinute if needed, and could gain a rotation spot someday. Also, possibly one of those guys that coudl end up getting a scholarship if we had a year where one was available do to late roster changes. Didnt that kid Taylor have that type of situation?

[Lloyd Braun]

Yea I think Andrew Taylor was awarded a scholarship. As was Tim Stainbrook more recently.

[joe titan]

Yea I think Andrew Taylor was awarded a scholarship. As was Tim Stainbrook more recently.

Tim's was special case under extraordinary circumstance b/c Matt was not on scholarship his last season.

[sirthought]

Hanson has okay size. He should be helpful in practice. An interview quotes him picking Columbia due to academics. Maybe it wasn't a good fit.

[XMuskieFTW]

He'll be a walk on. Maybe we'll throw him a scholarship since we'll have extra.

[sirthought]

If they have the scholarship it wouldn't be the worst thing for a year to help the family. He may not be the talent that we are going for these days, but he is a D1 level player AND we don't have that many players his size to go up against in training.

[XMuskieFTW]

I actually love this move. X doesn't really like to have 13 scholarship players. It creates chemistry issues. To have a guy that we can throw a scholarship(assuming we don't have 13) who will be very good to have in practice, but won't expect any playing time is really the perfect use of a 13th scholarship.

[GIMMFD]

I actually love this move. X doesn't really like to have 13 scholarship players. It creates chemistry issues. To have a guy that we can throw a scholarship(assuming we don't have 13) who will be very good to have in practice, but won't expect any playing time is really the perfect use of a 13th scholarship.

Right, we're never going to have a rotation of 13 guys, there's just not enough minutes to go around, but if he can practice hard, and push our starters it's an amazing use of a schollie. Even a guy averaging 11 minutes a game at the D1 level is better than a walk-on (no offense to walk ons)

[xu82]

Tim's was special case under extraordinary circumstance b/c Matt was not on scholarship his last season.

Did you know he was an Uber driver?

[Lloyd Braun]

Tim's was special case under extraordinary circumstance b/c Matt was not on scholarship his last season.

Yea I doubt Hanson will have an older brother transfer to X on scholarship and then ask to walk on as a grad student while driving uber so his brother could use the open scholarship and save $30,000+... was just using Tim as another example of someone who went from walk-on to scholarship status.

[MHettel]

I actually love this move. X doesn't really like to have 13 scholarship players. It creates chemistry issues. To have a guy that we can throw a scholarship(assuming we don't have 13) who will be very good to have in practice, but won't expect any playing time is really the perfect use of a 13th scholarship.

agree

[Lloyd Braun]

He has three years eligibility remaining. I don’t think they are “throwing” a scholarship at someone who won’t play for 3 years.

[sirthought]

Did anyone say three years? I don't see that in the conversation. But hey, we've had guys who barely got off the bench on scholarship before.

[Lloyd Braun]

So you’re going to offer him a scholarship for a year and then pull it? I mean if he’s ok with that then ok... just seems like a very uncommon situation.

[smileyy]

So you’re going to offer him a scholarship for a year and then pull it? I mean if he’s ok with that then ok... just seems like a very uncommon situation.

It may be uncommon but I'm p. sure it has happened before. Hey, a free year of school is a free year of school.

[Lloyd Braun]

Or if I’m being a conspiracy theorist...maybe he is a package deal with another scholarship. He IS from Minnesota hmmmmm

[sirthought]

We've had it happen on more than one player in recent history. If a guy knows he's being given the opportunity of preferred walk on, and then they say we might have a scholarship for a year, I don't think the program is jerking him around. He could always decline. Full ride isn't a given.

[kellernr]

So if he is walk on where does that put us scholarship wise? I thought people were saying the North Dakota transfer was going to pick X also. Are we going to have more transfers than returning players?

Sent from my SM-N920V using Tapatalk

[scoscox]

He's walking on, but also a traditional transfer, so he won't be eligible until next year. He put up pretty decent numbers when he actually played significant minutes.

[GIMMFD]

Or if I’m being a conspiracy theorist...maybe he is a package deal with another scholarship. He IS from Minnesota hmmmmm

I actually know a guy from the same hometown from him in Minnesota, just looked it up, Chaska, texting him right now to see if he knew him, and if he might know anything about it. Worst case scenario, I think the sentiment is right that he fully knows what he's walking into. Think about how bad that would look on X's part if they just completely lied to the guy, it would make recruits think twice before committing here you know?

[mistabeecee41]

Minnesota just had a player transfer out, makes the Crandall sweepstakes much more interesting. Gopher fans think it’s a done deal

[sirthought]

Matz Stockman is a center leaving Minne after transferring from Louisville
http://www.startribune.com/gophers-senior-center-matz-stockman-to-transfer/485406401/


What if we got Stockman and Crandall?

[Muskie]

Someone let me know when the roster is set. Agree with others. This is getting exhausting.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[muskiefan82]

Grad transfers can only go to a school that offers a graduate program their school does not offer. What in the world does Xavier offer as a Masters program that these other schools don't? Or does Xavier specifically have a weird program the kids can select and then change once they get here? Is that even allowed? Who monitors that? Could a grad transfer select the Graduate Level Welding Program to make the move and then change the program once enrolled to an MBA? It seems like there are so many moves and I can't believe that all of these transfers are to programs that don't exist at the current school. I could be wrong, though. It's like free agency once you complete your first contract.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Grad transfers can only go to a school that offers a graduate program their school does not offer. What in the world does Xavier offer as a Masters program that these other schools don't? Or does Xavier specifically have a weird program the kids can select and then change once they get here? Is that even allowed? Who monitors that? Could a grad transfer select the Graduate Level Welding Program to make the move and then change the program once enrolled to an MBA? It seems like there are so many moves and I can't believe that all of these transfers are to programs that don't exist at the current school. I could be wrong, though. It's like free agency once you complete your first contract.

Good point. Really, what graduate program that X offers that other big universities do not offer?

[xu95]

Grad transfers can only go to a school that offers a graduate program their school does not offer. What in the world does Xavier offer as a Masters program that these other schools don't? Or does Xavier specifically have a weird program the kids can select and then change once they get here? Is that even allowed? Who monitors that? Could a grad transfer select the Graduate Level Welding Program to make the move and then change the program once enrolled to an MBA? It seems like there are so many moves and I can't believe that all of these transfers are to programs that don't exist at the current school. I could be wrong, though. It's like free agency once you complete your first contract.

The grad transfer rule is bullshit. These kids can pick some obscure program that I am sure each school has set up and then once they get here change their major again. No one monitors it.

xu95

[XMuskieFTW]

He has three years eligibility remaining. I don’t think they are “throwing” a scholarship at someone who won’t play for 3 years.

My guess is they told him "Hey. We can't promise you a scholarship, but any year you're here where we don't use all 13 you will be getting one." Which is almost all the time.

[xu95]

My guess is they told him "Hey. We can't promise you a scholarship, but any year you're here where we don't use all 13 you will be getting one." Which is almost all the time.

Absolutely. Scholarships are one year renewable. It isn't out of the ordinary to give someone a scholarship for just one year and them knowing full well they won't get it again.

xu95

[Lloyd Braun]

My guess is they told him "Hey. We can't promise you a scholarship, but any year you're here where we don't use all 13 you will be getting one." Which is almost all the time.




Absolutely. Scholarships are one year renewable. It isn't out of the ordinary to give someone a scholarship for just one year and them knowing full well they won't get it again.

xu95

So when has this happened before at X? Not saying it hasn’t I am just trying to recall a situation as it is described here...Don’t get me wrong, it means he is here for good reasons (likes the school, etc) but to me it’s far from a guarantee that he will be on scholarship.

[XMuskieFTW]

So when has this happened before at X? Not saying it hasn’t I am just trying to recall a situation as it is described here...Don’t get me wrong, it means he is here for good reasons (likes the school, etc) but to me it’s far from a guarantee that he will be on scholarship.

Probably Andrew Taylor

[Lloyd Braun]

Probably Andrew Taylor

He was a D2 transfer, then walk on for what felt like 6 years, THEN awarded scholarship. That’s not the same as saying “any year we don’t have 13 you get first open scholly” only to be a walk on the next year.

[xu95]

I'm almost positive they gave Keenan Christensen a scholarship one year when they had an extra. I wasn't specifically talking about X though, I was just saying that schools reward walkons who work their ass off with a scholarship at times when they have an extra one.

Trust me, this kid is coming in as a walk on. He isn't expecting a scholarship. But if they have an extra one, why not let him use it for a year? Its not like they can bank it for another year.

xu95

[GoMuskies]

But if they have an extra one, why not let him use it for a year?

I can think of about forty thousand reasons....

[noteggs]

I can think of about forty thousand reasons....

Thank you for saying that! That is so spot on for many reasons!

[sirthought]

Each case has its unique circumstance, but preferred walk ons get help at times. Erik Stenger, Christensen, Landon Amos, Joe Hughes

[JTG]

I can think of about forty thousand reasons....

Have you not heard of creative accounting ? That scholarship might go on the books at 40k, but I reality doesn't cost the school near that. Room and board is retail, but the tuition costs the school very little.

[GoMuskies]

In this case it would cost $40,000, because if he doesn't get the scholarship he'd actually pay tuition.

[GIMMFD]

The grad transfer rule is bullshit. These kids can pick some obscure program that I am sure each school has set up and then once they get here change their major again. No one monitors it.

xu95

Yeah but when has anything the NCAA has done made any sense to you??

[sirthought]

Hankins


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=esAziuLI_5I

[Xuperman]

Wow, that's impressive, especially the footwork. Has some Ethan Happ skills in that regard. Also looks to be a nice rim protector. This will be very effective/productive for X. Not to mention, He will have NO problem giving MAX effort playing in front of a packed house at Cintas after playing in front of those 50 people at FSU.

[Xuperman]

The question will be can Zach hold his own against the other BEast centers? Krampelj, Epperson, Froling, Owens, Fowler are all going to have trouble dealing with a 5th year player with Zach's skill set and experience. The Hall and Depaul have nothing coming back, but that Watson kid is going to EXPLODE this fall and Govans will no doubt eat Zach's lunch!.....(along with everyone else's)....:seestars2:

[drudy23]

If we can get double digit scoring, and close to double digit rebounding, that's a win.

Anything above that is gravy. He's now a big dude among many big dudes (some even bigger).

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

The question will be can Zach hold his own against the other BEast centers? Krampelj, Epperson, Froling, Owens, Fowler are all going to have trouble dealing with a 5th year player with Zach's skill set and experience. The Hall and Depaul have nothing coming back, but that Watson kid is going to EXPLODE this fall and Govans will no doubt eat Zach's lunch!.....(along with everyone else's)....:seestars2:

Hankins did have 12, 8 boards, and 2 blocks against a projected top 5 pick in Jaren Jackson, and the rest of the MSU frontcourt, when they played at MSU. It's different to play against the competition every day, but it does show something still.

[Xuperman]

Hankins did have 12, 8 boards, and 2 blocks against a projected top 5 pick in Jaren Jackson, and the rest of the MSU frontcourt, when they played at MSU. It's different to play against the competition every day, but it does show something still.

No, that is very significant and should dispel any notion that he will have trouble stepping up to D1 talent. Shows also that he can be productive under the bright lights in front of a huge crowd and he should flourish seeing more of the same in BEast arenas. He has 30+ games remaining in his college career. We all should expect to see a guy playing his ass off in each and every game. What will be really interesting to see, is how many minutes he gets.

[XUBison]

No, that is very significant and should dispel any notion that he will have trouble stepping up to D1 talent. Shows also that he can be productive under the bright lights in front of a huge crowd and he should flourish seeing more of the same in BEast arenas. He has 30+ games remaining in his college career. We all should expect to see a guy playing his ass off in each and every game. What will be really interesting to see, is how many minutes he gets.

Funny how people get so excited about any recruit who plays well against high school kids, but they won’t buy in to a guy who has proven he can play at a high level against other college scholarship athletes.

[D-West & PO-Z]

If we can get double digit scoring, and close to double digit rebounding, that's a win.

Anything above that is gravy. He's now a big dude among many big dudes (some even bigger).

From Hankins alone? He isnt going to average close to a double double. When is the last time we have had a big guy average a double double or close to it? Probably David "F" West.

[D-West & PO-Z]

From Hankins alone? He isnt going to average close to a double double. When is the last time we have had a big guy average a double double or close to it? Probably David "F" West.

Travis Taylor was the last guy even close with 11.9pts and 9 boards. That was still in the A10 days.

Jamel McClain and Jason Love were the only other guys remotely close since West. They both had seasons of double figure points and rebounds in the 8's.

I have some high hopes for Hankins but to me that means if we can get like 8 points and 6 boards that would be really good. Add in a a block a game, with some games of more than a block and anything above those numbers to me would be fantastic.

[XMuskieFTW]

From Hankins alone? He isnt going to average close to a double double. When is the last time we have had a big guy average a double double or close to it? Probably David "F" West.

Travis Taylor averaged 12 and 9 his final year. Was a monster on the boards. Tyrique has a better chance averaging a double double than Hankins. My guess is Tyrique averages 7 rebounds and Haskins is around 5-6.

[Xuperman]

From Hankins alone? He isnt going to average close to a double double. When is the last time we have had a big guy average a double double or close to it? Probably David "F" West.

Of course not. If Tyrique doesn't start and be a consistent 5, that spells trouble. A realistic expectation should be the combination of the 2 be roughly a 17/10 avg.....then anything else would be gravy. Just hoping Jones comes up BIG as a JR and stays HEALTHY!!

[GIMMFD]

Of course not. If Tyrique doesn't start and be a consistent 5, that spells trouble. A realistic expectation should be the combination of the 2 be roughly a 17/10 avg.....then anything else would be gravy. Just hoping Jones comes up BIG as a JR and stays HEALTHY!!

Oh yeah, if we can get 17/10 out of our rotation in the big men spot that's plenty with the firepower Naji, Scruggs, and Q can provide, I'm just hoping everybody is working on their outside shot, if Q and Scruggs can shoot the 3 like they did at the end of the season, it opens up drives for Naji, getting the ball to Zach and Tyrique, it would make us so much better.

[whopper]

Welage looks good too and can be instant offense. Maybe a Struss type? When you look at his splits you will be impressed esp against Nevada, UNLV, St Mary's and other good teams. He played 40 minutes in a few games and high 30s
http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/gamelog/_/id/3906668/ryan-welage

[Xuperman]

Welage looks good too and can be instant offense. Maybe a Struss type? When you look at his splits you will be impressed esp against Nevada, UNLV, St Mary's and other good teams. He played 40 minutes in a few games and high 30s
http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/gamelog/_/id/3906668/ryan-welage

Yeah, I dig it, but Max Strus had a much better handle and even brought the ball over the time line often, RW is a pure stretch 4...like that other guy, who was gonna be, before he, uh....you know what I mean...:bash:

[sirthought]

Many centers in college seem to be a bit overweight and lacking conditioning for today's game. From the limited video I've seen, Hankins doesn't seem to suffer from that. Decent energy and not shy about trying to score. Practicing against Jones for a couple months will help him improve his defensive toughness for the Big East slate.

He won't be all league, but I think we found a good player to help the team. Of all the new guys coming in and trying to mesh with a new system, Hankins somehow worries me the least.

[Olsingledigit]

The most recent X article in the Enquirer about Hanson still lists Jake Walters as coming in this season.

[bobbiemcgee]

Welage looks good too and can be instant offense. Maybe a Struss type? When you look at his splits you will be impressed esp against Nevada, UNLV, St Mary's and other good teams. He played 40 minutes in a few games and high 30s
http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/gamelog/_/id/3906668/ryan-welage

Man, he played on a horrible team. Must feel like he got paroled from jail.

[GIMMFD]

Man, he played on a horrible team. Must feel like he got paroled from jail.

Holy losses, that's brutal I would hate everything about that. but definitely promising that he's dropping 20 on good teams, means that he should be able to do alright for us, even with the Big East competition being a step up. I'd love for him to be instant offense and add a weapon with what we have, looks like he's good staying out of foul trouble too, hopefully he's not shabby on the defensive end as well.

[UCGRAD4X]

Welage looks good too and can be instant offense. Maybe a Struss type? When you look at his splits you will be impressed esp against Nevada, UNLV, St Mary's and other good teams. He played 40 minutes in a few games and high 30s
http://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/gamelog/_/id/3906668/ryan-welage

Very impressive from the line also. Encouraging to say the least. It looks like he draws the contact, gets the calls and makes the FFs.

Let's just hope that translates to BE play.

[Xuperman]

We should all hope that Welage has no problem adjusting because it looks like he is going to start and play significant minutes. Can anyone see a scenario where he doesn't start?

[Lloyd Braun]

We are short on playmakers/ball handlers. Q, Scruggs,..... Castlin in a pinch? Can Naji advance to be more of a playmaking fwd? How much can you play Q/Scruggs together? Crunch time lineup perhaps: Q, Scruggs, Welage, Naji, Tyrique. (Gates would have been nice here!)

[Xuperman]

Crunch time lineup perhaps: Q, Scruggs, Welage, Naji, Tyrique.

Not only crunch time.....this is the starting line up. The only one that makes sense, aside from something unknown, like James coming in as a world beater. As far as play makers, that is what we have a surplus of, although most of which are untested. If Castlin has no problem transitioning, he will most certainly spell both Q and Paul. Throw in ANY positive production from Harden or KK and we are gonna be fine. If any of our guards have to play at the 3, it exposes how thin we are at the 2 forward positions.

[Lloyd Braun]

Not only crunch time.....this is the starting line up. The only one that makes sense, aside from something unknown, like James coming in as a world beater. As far as play makers, that is what we have a surplus of, although most of which are untested. If Castlin has no problem transitioning, he will most certainly spell both Q and Paul. Throw in ANY positive production from Harden or KK and we are gonna be fine. If any of our guards have to play at the 3, it exposes how thin we are at the 2 forward positions.

Surplus of playmakers? Huh? Who aside from Q and Scruggs can handle the ball and make plays? They can’t play 40 minutes together which is why either starting Castlin or subbing one out early is likely going to happen. They will both play 30+ minutes likely, but if Q and Scruggs are on the bench, who is the ball handler?

[xukeith]

Not only crunch time.....this is the starting line up. The only one that makes sense, aside from something unknown, like James coming in as a world beater. As far as play makers, that is what we have a surplus of, although most of which are untested. If Castlin has no problem transitioning, he will most certainly spell both Q and Paul. Throw in ANY positive production from Harden or KK and we are gonna be fine. If any of our guards have to play at the 3, it exposes how thin we are at the 2 forward positions.

I agree with this plus redshirt Jake Walter. He can practice and bang bodies plus get into high D1 physical shape.

[Xuperman]

Yeah, a "surplus" by definition. Meaning the shear number of bodies under scholarship that play the guard position. I am not saying they all will be effective play makers OR ball handlers. You just have to hope they are and be a glass half full guy. Besides, wasn't the fact we had too many 1 and 2 guys that it was discouraging some recruits?

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Naji is a stud and will be a premier playmaker. Scruggs will take a leap forward. He was a plus defender and ball handler in high school at a top prep. This could be very good if the grad transfers mesh.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[UCGRAD4X]

Naji is a stud and will be a premier playmaker. Scruggs will take a leap forward. He was a plus defender and ball handler in high school at a top prep. This could be very good if the grad transfers mesh.


I like your optimism!

They've got some great players and they will make everybody around them better. Really looking forward to this year. It's going to be special!

[XUBison]

So are we assuming now that Harden and Walter will be on the roster next season? And is there any word on Geno Crandall from ND?

[whopper]

that's the spirit. We have been so used to an "unbeatable" Villanova, a polished skilled Xavier, an athletic Seton Hall, a heady Butler, a quicksilver Creighton, a legacy underdog St Johns/Georgetown and wildcard Marquette and Depaul it was getting predictable. Even the Foxsports analysts were phoning it in. Now we are going to start each game without a pre determined script and we might not like some of the results at times but that is sports. I think Castin and Welage with Div I experience will surprise on upside and Hankins will be motivated to have a second hoop life to make some money playing basketball at next level. I would love to see a decent big East run, an 7-9 seed and a sweet 16 as the goal. Naj, Q and Tyrique must lead the way though, would be nice to have Kaiser

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

So are we assuming now that Harden and Walter will be on the roster next season? And is there any word on Geno Crandall from ND?

Is there a reason to think harden won’t be on the roster next year? That brief rumor was quickly shot down.

[Olsingledigit]

Is there a reason to think harden won’t be on the roster next year? That brief rumor was quickly shot down.

Then why are you asking?

[ArizonaXUGrad]

I think a lot of people on here see only what we saw last year. Scruggs and Marshall are ready to take over already, both will be 21. If we get some outside shooting and don’t crap the bed inside, I believe we will be a good team.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[sirthought]

Castlin played outside wing at Columbia and his assist average per 40 minutes was 1.8 per game. BUT I believe that was partially due to what was asked of him.

His defensive reputation tells me he's got some quickness. If he had to play point guard I'm sure he could handle it while Q or Scruggs get a rest. Castlin has seen a lot of basketball already and can learn this season. His career turnover average per 40 minutes is 1.9. That's someone who doesn't give up the ball a ton. So hopefully he learns a few plays and can find an open man when we need it.

I'd rather have another PG if Scruggs is going to start, but I think we'll be okay, barring a big injury. (It still could be Harden or another guard at SG.)

[xavier513]

I think a lot of people on here see only what we saw last year. Scruggs and Marshall are ready to take over already, both will be 21. If we get some outside shooting and don’t crap the bed inside, I believe we will be a good team.

I had to look this up to see if it was true. Both will start their sophomore season at 20 and end it at 21. Not to be that guy... but I can't imagine either player sticking at Xavier for 4 years. You just don't often see high level recruits playing in college at 23. I'm sure they can cement some pretty good legacies in 2 or 3 years though and who knows, maybe they'll shock us. Quentin and Tyrique will be 21 for the length of their junior seasons FWIW.

[MHettel]

Castlin played outside wing at Columbia and his assist average per 40 minutes was 1.8 per game. BUT I believe that was partially due to what was asked of him.

His defensive reputation tells me he's got some quickness. If he had to play point guard I'm sure he could handle it while Q or Scruggs get a rest. Castlin has seen a lot of basketball already and can learn this season. His career turnover average per 40 minutes is 1.9. That's someone who doesn't give up the ball a ton. So hopefully he learns a few plays and can find an open man when we need it.

I'd rather have another PG if Scruggs is going to start, but I think we'll be okay, barring a big injury. (It still could be Harden or another guard at SG.)

Do I understand correctly that Castlin averages 1.8 Assists per 40 minutes, and 1.9 TOs per 40 minutes. And your comment is that he doesnt give up teh ball a ton? Is that right?

My interpretation is that doesnt GET the ball a ton, and when he does, he's more likely to create a turnover than an opportunity for someone else. just based on this, I dont see him as an option as a rotation ballhandler.

[GoMuskies]

Maybe he got a lot of "hockey assists", because at 2 A and 2 TOs per 40 minutes, apparently he didn't make much happen (good or bad) with the ball in his hands.

[MHettel]

Maybe he got a lot of "hockey assists", because at 2 A and 2 TOs per 40 minutes, apparently he didn't make much happen (good or bad) with the ball in his hands.

Or, he just didnt have the ball in his hands, which I think is the most likely scenario.

By the way, I don't think he needs to be Scottie Pippin or anythign like that. i just dotn think his past performance suggest that he's a guy that can ball handle and run an offense. i'm sure he'll have an improtant role, but probably not emergency PG

[XMuskieFTW]

Or, he just didnt have the ball in his hands, which I think is the most likely scenario.

By the way, I don't think he needs to be Scottie Pippin or anythign like that. i just dotn think his past performance suggest that he's a guy that can ball handle and run an offense. i'm sure he'll have an improtant role, but probably not emergency PG

Castlin is going to be very similar to Malcolm Bernard on this team. He'll play the 2 and 3. Malcolm's assist/turnover his one year was 1.5/1.5. Naji will be our emergency PG. He was the previous staff's plan at back up PG to Q in case Scruggs didn't end up committing.

[MHettel]

Castlin is going to be very similar to Malcolm Bernard on this team. He'll play the 2 and 3. Malcolm's assist/turnover his one year was 1.5/1.5. Naji will be our emergency PG. He was the previous staff's plan at back up PG to Q in case Scruggs didn't end up committing.

I'll take Malcom Bernard. Sign me up