Naji Marshall

[sirthought]

Nice to learn a bit about Marshall's background.

I think it's a bit surprising to have this article come off like Marshall's an underdog, when the fact is—according to 247sports—he is Xavier's 5th highest ranked recruit ever. I'm not saying he hasn't had to work for what he has achieved, just that his natural-born talent has been obvious to people around him for a while, and most people say he makes it look easy.

Hard to call a four star prospect an underdog. Maybe he was recruited late, but people just hadn't seen him.

The Enquirer article is here (https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/xaviersports/2018/10/03/xavier-basketball-naji-marshall-next-big-star-quiet-confidence/1486840002/).

[GIMMFD]

Nice to learn a bit about Marshall's background.

I think it's a bit surprising to have this article come off like Marshall's an underdog, when the fact is—according to 247sports—he is Xavier's 5th highest ranked recruit ever. I'm not saying he hasn't had to work for what he has achieved, just that his natural-born talent has been obvious to people around him for a while, and most people say he makes it look easy.

Hard to call a four star prospect an underdog. Maybe he was recruited late, but people just hadn't seen him.

The Enquirer article is here (https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/xaviersports/2018/10/03/xavier-basketball-naji-marshall-next-big-star-quiet-confidence/1486840002/).

Didn't Naji get a HUGE jump in the recruiting rankings late after he already committed to Xavier?? I haven't read that article yet, but I'm going to in a little, I was just trying to spitball why he was an "underdog" so to say.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Didn't Naji get a HUGE jump in the recruiting rankings late after he already committed to Xavier?? I haven't read that article yet, but I'm going to in a little, I was just trying to spitball why he was an "underdog" so to say.

I saw him rated from 32-90. I was told by some Jersey guys that the people who actually watched him rated him high and the people who rate based on videos and such rated him lower.

[whopper]

he is what they call a "baller".. You want 14 pt, 7 Reb, 2 assist, great defense. I don't know if a 3 or a 4..becoming meaningless

[mid major]

I still think, despite the egg we laid against FSU, we win if Naji doesn't get hurt.

[bjf123]

I still think, despite the egg we laid against FSU, we win if Naji doesn't get hurt.

Yep.


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[ArizonaXUGrad]

I concur, didn’t the FSU guy tank on his leg?


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[Xuperman]

he is what they call a "baller".. You want 14 pt, 7 Reb, 2 assist, great defense. I don't know if a 3 or a 4..becoming meaningless

I guess he’s living up to your expectations....those numbers are spot on. His defense might not be great but is very good. He has been slowed some by injury I guess but some have hinted that there may have been a disciplinary element involved with the sore back. Now a shoulder issue? Did anyone see anything in the PC game? If so, this is where he needs to play thru some pain. I don’t see how we keep the Hausers in check w/o him.

[GenerationX]

I guess he’s living up to your expectations....those numbers are spot on. His defense might not be great but is very good. He has been slowed some by injury I guess but some have hinted that there may have been a disciplinary element involved with the sore back. Now a shoulder issue? Did anyone see anything in the PC game? If so, this is where he needs to play thru some pain. I don’t see how we keep the Hausers in check w/o him.

Regarding the PC game, at the time it looked he tripped and then possibly got kicked accidentally while on the ground. But I thought he was holding his head. That was basically the last chance X had, anyway, so I don’t think the fact that he didn’t return had any impact.

I have noticed that teams go on offensive runs when Naji leaves the game. I’m not smart enough to directly assess his defensive abilities, but that seems to indicate that he’s pretty important on that end.

[Xuperman]

Wtf!!

[Xuperman]

Got to give it to him, he's starting to emerge as the "go to" guy we sorely need. He was money under pressure last night and that is a tremendous affirmation of what I'm sure he already sees in himself. Often it's easy to forget he's just a soph. His offense has taken a remarkable jump as of late, especially the fact that he has gotten out of the deep freeze from distance....10 of his last 22. He seems to be over the top confident which can be a detriment at times, so he has to learn to harness that confidence.....nothing more experience won't cure. I have a feeling there is not going to be near enough games left on the schedule for Mr. Marshall.

[XUOWNSUC]

I still think, despite the egg we laid against FSU, we win if Naji doesn't get hurt.

^ 100% this.

[SemajParlor]

Sort of get the feeling everything is going to click together for him very soon. He has the potential to be a monster next year.

His decision making and floor vision seems to be interesting at times... but there is so so much upside here. He starts taking and making these 3s at this clip and watch out.

[UCGRAD4X]

Got to give it to him, he's starting to emerge as the "go to" guy we sorely need. He was money under pressure last night and that is a tremendous affirmation of what I'm sure he already sees in himself. Often it's easy to forget he's just a soph. His offense has taken a remarkable jump as of late, especially the fact that he has gotten out of the deep freeze from distance....10 of his last 22. He seems to be over the top confident which can be a detriment at times, so he has to learn to harness that confidence.....nothing more experience won't cure. I have a feeling there is not going to be near enough games left on the schedule for Mr. Marshall.

This has been my biggest source of disappointment (bordering on disgust) for me is the end-of-game play. Getting the stats but, not only disappearing when it counts, but being a detriment at times. Somebody needs the steel balls to be the money guy.


Wtf!!

You called?

[Xuperman]

Can all you Naji haters expose yourselves. Especially the guy that said he’s not a D1 player.....Xville?

[UCGRAD4X]

Don't know who's saying that (besides Xville) but for a guy who has NBA scouts looking at him, he is very frustrating and disappointing. I know,he's only a sophomore. But we see teams with freshmen taking over games. Yes, Trevon was famous for taking off complete halves of games and then scoring 20. But he didn't turn the ball over a half dozen times and he didn't have NBA chasing after him.

[xdude]

Naji and team had a damn fine game tonight. A road win against a Q1. Held Powell below is average and went off for 28. He is still just a sophomore, but damn he's got his game going!

[xu82]

Can all you Naji haters expose yourselves. Especially the guy that said he’s not a D1 player.....Xville?

I don’t know if there are any bonafide haters, but he does play beyond himself at times, which can be frustrating. He has all the potential in the world, so that’s what makes it more difficult. He could be an all-time great, but at times he needs to slow down and let the game come to him a bit. That’s not hate, that’s hoping and praying for the best from the young man.

Saying he’s not D1 sounds like hyperbole.....or maybe scotch.

[XUGRAD80]

I will admit that earlier this year I thought that he was displaying a lackadaisical attitude and was not playing hard, especially on defense. But I can’t say that was the case tonight. Not at all. He was big time tonight on both ends of the court.

[UCGRAD4X]

For all his talent...he just doesn't play smart. The best is yet to come...sooner rather than later. The sooner the better.

I remain optimistic...but...ugh.

We really need somebody who can close out games.

Really escaped with a W tonight...on the road FANTASTIC.


But, ugh!

[Xuperman]

Don't know who's saying that (besides Xville) but for a guy who has NBA scouts looking at him, he is very frustrating and disappointing. I know,he's only a sophomore. But we see teams with freshmen taking over games. Yes, Trevon was famous for taking off complete halves of games and then scoring 20. But he didn't turn the ball over a half dozen times and he didn't have NBA chasing after him.

Oh no UCGRAD4X, he’s disappointing? So no love for a bonified cold blooded killer? Man you just can’t please some people.

[Xavier]

Oh no UCGRAD4X, he’s disappointing? So no love for a bonified cold blooded killer? Man you just can’t please some people.

Bonified cold blooded killer? Even tonight we had no one stepping up as SH came back from 16 points. I could be missing sarcasm but no one on this team is that. If X had someone with that mentality on the team it would be the difference of 2-3 wins and looking like an NCAA tourney team.

[Xuperman]

Bonified cold blooded killer? Even tonight we had no one stepping up as SH came back from 16 points. I could be missing sarcasm but no one on this team is that. If X had someone with that mentality on the team it would be the difference of 2-3 wins and looking like an NCAA tourney team.

Another non believer...Master Snipe is very disappointed in you. Yes, Naj is a CBK

[D-West & PO-Z]

Early in the second half I thought Steele needed to sit Naji he has several frustrating plays and turnovers early in the half but ever since I tweeted that I thought he needed to sit for a few h went off offensively. He was huge but he does make some really boneheaded plays too. He is still young though.

[XfansinKy]

All kinds of size, length, and athletic ability. He just needs to get himself a little bit more under control handling the ball. Otherwise, he's got a nice handle for a kid his size. Shoots the ball well when he steps into a catch and shoot. I don't expect him to be the best defender on the floor every night that he's scoring 20 plus. If he gets himself under control, he could be a really good point forward, and not just in college.

[Xville]

Can all you Naji haters expose yourselves. Especially the guy that said he’s not a D1 player.....Xville?

If you are going to "call me out" can you show me where I said that? Because even I think that is crazy. I have said on numerous occasions this year that it is very possible naji and paul dont stay thru their senior year because they are playing professionally somewhere.

[Xuperman]

If you are going to "call me out" can you show me where I said that? Because even I think that is crazy. I have said on numerous occasions this year that it is very possible naji and paul dont stay thru their senior year because they are playing professionally somewhere.

My sincere apology. I was lazy and didn’t read thru your posts.

[Xville]

My sincere apology. I was lazy and didn’t read thru your posts.

No big deal...I will say I have been extremely hard on Q all year and the last two games, he has shown improvement..so i will eat a bit of crow there. Besides the turnovers which are still a big issue, this team as a whole has obviously gotten better. Cut down on turnovers and find the real Paul Scruggs, and this team really could win out the regular season.

It doesn't look like the Net Rankings have been updated as of yet, but I'm assuming we jumped into the 80s from the win last night. Are there any predictors out there to show where the team would be if they won out in the regular season? I'd have to think it would be somewhere in the 50s??

[xavierj]

One thing I haven’t seen much is the praise for Naji pretty much taking Powell out of his game last night. Powell plays 40 minutes and goes 6-16 and 2-7 from 3. He averages 22 a game. Naji made him work really hard for those 16 and never let him get comfortable. Yes Naji had some bad plays and turnovers, but man he was really good last night. Even late when things were falling apart he still didn’t let Powell be the guy to beat them.

[sirthought]

Looking at his movement last night I wonder if he isn't still dealing with a banged up body. He was really conserving energy as much as possible and wasn't as physical as in some games past.

Marshall has a lot of quality skills, but he is very inconsistent. Still is liability on defense and needs help (most of the team fits this category). Still needs to work on his handle if he wants to drive more reliably or else shore up that three pointer.

Hey, he had a great game last night and we all celebrate that. Credit due. But this is very much a work in progress to be calling him a cold blooded killer.

The outside shooting was really a new twist last night and while it was the difference maker, he still took some of those that made absolutely no sense given the score, clock time, and his teammates rebounding position. Hopefully though he continues to improve his spot up shooting, as that is helping open the floor.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Looking at his movement last night I wonder if he isn't still dealing with a banged up body. He was really conserving energy as much as possible and wasn't as physical as in some games past.

Marshall has a lot of quality skills, but he is very inconsistent. Still is liability on defense and needs help (most of the team fits this category). Still needs to work on his handle if he wants to drive more reliably or else shore up that three pointer.

Hey, he had a great game last night and we all celebrate that. Credit due. But this is very much a work in progress to be calling him a cold blooded killer.

The outside shooting was really a new twist last night and while it was the difference maker, he still took some of those that made absolutely no sense given the score, clock time, and his teammates rebounding position. Hopefully though he continues to improve his spot up shooting, as that is helping open the floor.


The last 8 games he has shot 43% on 6 threes per game (20-47). He’s been shooting well for awhile now.

[xavierj]

Looking at his movement last night I wonder if he isn't still dealing with a banged up body. He was really conserving energy as much as possible and wasn't as physical as in some games past.

Marshall has a lot of quality skills, but he is very inconsistent. Still is liability on defense and needs help (most of the team fits this category). Still needs to work on his handle if he wants to drive more reliably or else shore up that three pointer.

Hey, he had a great game last night and we all celebrate that. Credit due. But this is very much a work in progress to be calling him a cold blooded killer.

The outside shooting was really a new twist last night and while it was the difference maker, he still took some of those that made absolutely no sense given the score, clock time, and his teammates rebounding position. Hopefully though he continues to improve his spot up shooting, as that is helping open the floor.

Last 7 games he is averaging 18 points, a game and shooting 43% from 3. Last 4 games he is scoring 22 a night and 7 rebounds. Also averaging over 4 assists a game last 7 as well. Last night his defense was really good. I think he is feeling better.

[sirthought]

The game isn't all offense. I never said he wasn't scoring, but how efficient, how it's working with others, and how he's playing defense matters as well.

[xavierj]

The game isn't all offense. I never said he wasn't scoring, but how efficient, how it's working with others, and how he's playing defense matters as well.

When you score 28, get 6 rebounds, 5 assists and shut down the opposing teams best player, you were working well with others. It’s not a coincidence that Xavier has played their best basketball the last theee games, winning 2 on the road. He has been pretty good all the way around.

[scoscox]

Defensively in these past three games he’s completely bottled up tyshon Alexander, alpha diallo (who he held to seven and less than double figures for the first time all year), and Myles Powell. The only complaint of the last few games you could possibly have is the turnovers

[scoscox]

Even his turnovers haven’t been nearly as much of a problem as Quentin and Paul. Naji having three or four tos I can live with considering his role, but 4 and 5 tos from our point guards is totally unacceptable

[Xuperman]

Man, this is a tough crowd. Some less than glowing compliments for a SOPHMORE coming off a career high 28. Does he have to drop 40 to get his due props? He is arguably the best SF in the conference. Take a minute to look at Big East stats.....the numbers show him as a top 10 player in the league. As far as his turnovers, I bet most BE fans don't realize that POY Markus Howard has more!

[Xuperman]

Defensively in these past three games he’s completely bottled up tyshon Alexander, alpha diallo (who he held to seven and less than double figures for the first time all year), and Myles Powell.

Not to mention, this is HUGE! Good luck Phil Booth.

[smileyy]

Bump for Naji continuing to be a baller.

[noteggs]

Big East player of the week last week - for the second time this year.

[xavierj]

Bump for Naji continuing to be a baller.

He held Booth to 14 on 6 of 18 shooting and 2/9 from 3. Think Booth had 2 in the 2nd half. Naji is becoming a shutdown defender. Wonder who will get the task of trying to shut Ponds down on Thursday?

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

He held Booth to 14 on 6 of 18 shooting and 2/9 from 3. Think Booth had 2 in the 2nd half. Naji is becoming a shutdown defender. Wonder who will get the task of trying to shut Ponds down on Thursday?

Pretty positive Naji got the call last year on Ponds. He is incredibly versatile because of his quickness and length. Can guard 1-4 so unless your best player is exclusively operating in the post, Naji should be capable.

[SemajParlor]

I hope Naji doesn't frequently ask Kaiser Gates for advice. Because well, you know.

[GIMMFD]

He's come into his own the last few games, really relished the role of being the go to guy, is clamping down on defense and scoring points to boot. This is the Naji I thought we'd see all year, I wouldn't be surprised to see him ending up with around 15-16ppg if he continues to play strong like this.

[Xuperman]

He's already there. Averaging exactly 16 ppg in Big East play, so he's increased his scoring at the right time.

[UCGRAD4X]

Gotta say - was becoming disillusioned with Naji for a while. Just couldn't see why a guy with so much potential was not taking over more games. But you could say that about the team in general (and other players as well).

Seems to be doing it at the right time. Seems to be making the whole team better. Still some work to do, but I have to give credit for Naji stirring the drink.

[Xuperman]

I think "Cold Blooded Killer" is accurate.... :theking:

[D-West & PO-Z]

New career high 31!!!

[Xuperman]

Bonified cold blooded killer? Even tonight we had no one stepping up as SH came back from 16 points. I could be missing sarcasm but no one on this team is that. If X had someone with that mentality on the team it would be the difference of 2-3 wins and looking like an NCAA tourney team.

The answer to your ? mark is.......YES

[XfansinKy]

I thought he was on a nice roll for a few games, but it's looking like this is what he is without any back pain and plenty of confidence. Q is starting to play like a bigger, physical point guard again. No matter what happens, this has been fun to watch.

[Xville]

What a great run and incredible play by naji. Whatever happens from here, I feel great about the future of this program. Steele will get a final four.

[xuwin]

What a great run and incredible play by naji. Whatever happens from here, I feel great about the future of this program. Steele will get a final four.

Don't feel too great. It seem that every time we get to this point we end up with 2 players transferring and a key player declaring for the draft early. At least we don't have to worry about the coach leaving this year.

[Murph85]

Don't feel too great. It seem that every time we get to this point we end up with 2 players transferring and a key player declaring for the draft early. At least we don't have to worry about the coach leaving this year.

I disagree. I feel really great. We can say with confidence we have survived yet another coaching change with minimal short term damage. The odds of getting a stellar replacement 4 times in a row are not great. One bad choice can be a disaster. Ask Indiana fans about that.
We also boast one hell of a recruiting class that may even improve in a few days. I did not feel this way about 20 days ago but this run really is amazing. Coach Steele is the real deal.

[Xavier]

I disagree. I feel really great. We can say with confidence we have survived yet another coaching change with minimal short term damage. The odds of getting a stellar replacement 4 times in a row are not great. One bad choice can be a disaster. Ask Indiana fans about that.
We also boast one hell of a recruiting class that may even improve in a few days. I did not feel this way about 20 days ago but this run really is amazing. Coach Steele is the real deal.

Jesus. You can go from saying with confidence Steele is a stellar replacement even though just 20 days ago you didn't think so? Talk about going from one extreme to the other.

[usfldan]

Naji Marshall was named Second Team All-Big East

https://goxavier.com/news/2019/3/10/mens-basketball-nai-marshall-named-second-team-all-big-east-conference.aspx

The complete list is here:

http://www.bigeast.com/news/2019/3/10/mens-basketball-howard-powell-booth-paschall-named-unanimously-to-all-big-east-first-team.aspx

[bleedXblue]

Well done and well deserved. Think he can be 1st team and should be POY candidate next year.....

[surfxu]

Well done and well deserved. Think he can be 1st team and should be POY candidate next year.....

Agree... Can't really argue with the 1st team selections, it just makes you realize how many really good college players there are in the Big East. Naji was leaping off the bench with excitement during the St Johns game, at one point it looked like he was at about the free throw line, luckily he didn't get some sort of bench technical, but he was really jacked up for that win, even though he wasn't in uniform. This team is really becoming excited for each other's success and that wasn't the case 2-3 months ago. Hopefully he'll be back to 100% for the BE tournament.

[xukeith]

I see the youth and numbers of underclassmen on these recognition first and second team. Hope Ponds, Howard, and other underclassmen all come back next year and show the strength of more experienced BE rising again to a top 3 league.

This bracket guy has 7 BE teams in the tourney now (a little too nuts?)
https://borderingonwisdom.wordpress.com/bracket-matrix/

[bjf123]

This bracket guy has 7 BE teams in the tourney now (a little too nuts?)
https://borderingonwisdom.wordpress.com/bracket-matrix/

I like it, but he’s smoking some serious shit!


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[XfansinKy]

He practiced a little bit today.

[Xuperman]

The final BEast stats show Marshall and Krampelj having very similar numbers. Their scoring averages are basically identical but Krampelj is a better rebounder while Marshall is a better assist guy. I think it will be interesting to see if they go head to head much on Thursday.....Krampelj will come out loaded for bear because of the ALL BIG EAST snub favoring Marshall!!

[bobbiemcgee]

https://www.ncaa.com/news/basketball-men/article/2019-06-13/these-are-5-most-important-players-big-east-2019-20-college

[noteggs]

Naji has a great opportunity to have a special year. No reason he shouldn’t be first team all big east. When you look at core 4, hope all live up to expectations. Awesome if someone exceeds (or 2 maybe 3)! One can hope.

[bleedXblue]

Naji freaking marshall !!!

[UCGRAD4X]

Yurtseven: where you might stay in a Mongolian Motel.

[Muskie in dayton]

This would have been nice last year. We would have won a few more games.
https://twitter.com/n1conley/status/1309242562025193472?s=20
(https://twitter.com/n1conley/status/1309242562025193472?s=20)

[Xavier]

I mean, he was draining in practice last year too. I remember watching practice where stainbrook would drain 3 after 3.

[XU 87]

This would have been nice last year. We would have won a few more games.
https://twitter.com/n1conley/status/1309242562025193472?s=20
(https://twitter.com/n1conley/status/1309242562025193472?s=20)


I thought Naji was a decent three point shooter when he got good looks. The problem was that he went about 3-75 on step back threes with a man in his face, a terrible shot that he would take several times per game.

[paulxu]

The problem was that he went about 3-75 on step back threes with a man in his face, a terrible shot that he would take several times per game.

Practicing for the NBA.

[JTG]

Saw where Naji was invited to NBA combine. So some people think he has a shot.

[xu82]

Saw where Naji was invited to NBA combine. So some people think he has a shot.

Naji always liked a shot!

[Muskie in dayton]

I had to chuckle when I saw this:
https://twitter.com/rp3natural/status/1314587933425496064?s=21

[Lloyd Braun]

I had to chuckle when I saw this:
https://twitter.com/rp3natural/status/1314587933425496064?s=21

3 outta 4 ain’t bad

[Muskie in dayton]

3 outta 4 ain’t bad
The shooting was impressive. I chuckled at “IQ” being listed as part of his game. Of course no one ever listed IQ as an important attribute for the NBA.

[Lloyd Braun]

The shooting was impressive. I chuckled at “IQ” being listed as part of his game. Of course no one ever listed IQ as an important attribute for the NBA.

Yes that was what I was referring to:

“ A 6’6 versatile wing that plays the game ambidextrously, has tremendous speed, toughness, and IQ.”

Ambidextrous (check)
Speed (check)
Toughness (check)
Basketball IQ (crickets)
3/4

[AviatorX]

I still think Naji will stick in the NBA at some point. Never going to be a star or play more than last role guy minutes, but how he will be used if he is ever to set foot on an NBA court will mitigate the over-dribbling and hero ball that scarred so many on here.

[joe titan]

Yes that was what I was referring to:

“ A 6’6 versatile wing that plays the game ambidextrously, has tremendous speed, toughness, and IQ.”

Ambidextrous (check)
Speed (check)
Toughness (check)
Basketball IQ (crickets)
3/4

Would uncheck this box; there was reason he always was on left side of floor on offense.

[muethibp]

I would be very surprised if he makes the NBA. He's a nice enough player but someone his size is only going to make it as a 3-and-D contributor...and, respectfully, he's not particularly good at either of those things.

[SM#24]

I always found him to be a very good defender.

[AviatorX]

On defense, his physical tools and tape grade out very highly from an NBA scouting perspective (I'd be surprised if they didn't). That's a different measure than how helpful he was in the Xavier defensive system.

Obviously we all know about the shooting.

[whopper]

i have watched every X game since 2014-5 with my daughter both graduated but the only game i dont delete from my DVR is senior day 2019 when they had to beat St John to go 9-9 and escape play in game. No Naj and the ball movement was great, Welage with 19, Castlin 11, Hankins 18 and open shots everywhere. Certainly worse defensively and rebounding but incredible teamwork.. Naj was not fun to watch at times and he did NOT trust his teammates.

[Drew]

Steele's teams have just had huge chemistry issues. Goodin was supposed to be the leader and frankly I don't think he cared for college ball these last 2 years. Scruggs would've been next but he doesn't have the game to back it up. So a ship without a captain has been our problem imo.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Steele's teams have just had huge chemistry issues. Goodin was supposed to be the leader and frankly I don't think he cared for college ball these last 2 years. Scruggs would've been next but he doesn't have the game to back it up. So a ship without a captain has been our problem imo.

That is exactly why I'm so looking forward to first couple of games. Yes, lots of new faces on the floor and, based on the advance billing, some really good talent. But, those first couple of games, I'll be far less concerned about individual play and really focused on how these guys interact on the floor. I want to see a different chemistry and I think whether or not it exists, will be clear pretty quickly.

[xavier513]

The mock draft at The Athletic was updated today and has Naji going #56 for those interested in such things...

[paulxu]

It seems to me that we have often had a good player, who looked to have the skills for the next level.
Unfortunately, and this seems to occur all too often in college ball, those players take their last year as an audition for the NBA...very often to the detriment of the team's success.

[XU 87]

It seems to me that we have often had a good player, who looked to have the skills for the next level.
Unfortunately, and this seems to occur all too often in college ball, those players take their last year as an audition for the NBA...very often to the detriment of the team's success.

So at what point does a coach look at his best player and say, "You're our best player, but you do things every game, like continue to take contested step back threes, which really hurts this team. We've discussed this multiple times. If you keep it up, I'm gong to have to take you out of the game and put you on the bench for extended minutes"?

And I don't know if there is an answer to my own question, although UC suspended its best player last year, and that seemed to work. I guess it all depends.

[drudy23]

Steele's teams have just had huge chemistry issues. Goodin was supposed to be the leader and frankly I don't think he cared for college ball these last 2 years. Scruggs would've been next but he doesn't have the game to back it up. So a ship without a captain has been our problem imo.

This - and I would add a completely disjointed offense.

If the first few games we see an offense that doesn't work together, and no one playing the role of captain on the floor, and keeping guys in sync, I'm gonna break the TV. Honestly, I'm not worried about the leadership piece because I think Freemantle is ready and willing to take that role.

These are the two glaring Steele weaknesses if you ask me.

[muethibp]

He was 28% from 3 two years ago on 48-173 shooting. He was 29% on 44-154 shooting from 3 last year. Those are big sample sizes; this is who he is as a shooter. And the NBA three is longer and the defenses better. You simply can't play him as a shooter and his defense is terrible. He's just a flawed player; I can't see it.

[XU 87]

He was 28% from 3 two years ago on 48-173 shooting. He was 29% on 44-154 shooting from 3 last year. Those are big sample sizes; this is who he is as a shooter. And the NBA three is longer and the defenses better. You simply can't play him as a shooter and his defense is terrible. He's just a flawed player; I can't see it.

What are your criticisms of his defense?

[Xville]

His defense is terrible? Huh? I actually think he is an above average defender.

[drudy23]

When he wanted to be a great defender, he was. It wasn't consistent, and that was mostly effort related.

Poor shooters can improve their shot. It sounds like he's been working on it.

He has the frame to be a James Posey type of contributor in the league. Posey made a great career out of guarding the other team's best player, being a great teammate, and hitting the occassional jumper. Naji will be a role player, but teams need great role players.

Because of his body, length, athleticism and defensive skill set, he has a much better chance than Tre or JP.

[Masterofreality]

That is exactly why I'm so looking forward to first couple of games. Yes, lots of new faces on the floor and, based on the advance billing, some really good talent. But, those first couple of games, I'll be far less concerned about individual play and really focused on how these guys interact on the floor. I want to see a different chemistry and I think whether or not it exists, will be clear pretty quickly.

Absolutely. I am convinced that after Mack left, Goodin and Marshall never bought into Steele. Remember the tweet, which was quickly deleted from allegedly Naji saying that "I miss Chris Mack"? That was in November of 2018. I also think that Marshall thought that what offense Steele was doing was trash and he just decided to take it upon himself to save the team.

These first few games are going to be really interesting. Steele has a lot to prove.

[drudy23]

Absolutely. I am convinced that after Mack left, Goodin and Marshall never bought into Steele. Remember the tweet, which was quickly deleted from allegedly Naji saying that "I miss Chris Mack"? That was in November of 2018. I also think that Marshall thought that what offense Steele was doing was trash and he just decided to take it upon himself to save the team.

These first few games are going to be really interesting. Steele has a lot to prove.

Agreed - anyone with any sense could tell something was amiss with that relationship. That's fine if players and coaches don't like each other, but it had an obvious impact on the team, which Steele let linger for 2 years.

[Masterofreality]

On defense, his physical tools and tape grade out very highly from an NBA scouting perspective (I'd be surprised if they didn't). That's a different measure than how helpful he was in the Xavier defensive system.

Obviously we all know about the shooting.

Welp. He shut down Jarron Cumberland. (Shoulder Shrug)

[AviatorX]

When he wanted to be a great defender, he was. It wasn't consistent, and that was mostly effort related.

Poor shooters can improve their shot. It sounds like he's been working on it.

He has the frame to be a James Posey type of contributor in the league. Posey made a great career out of guarding the other team's best player, being a great teammate, and hitting the occassional jumper. Naji will be a role player, but teams need great role players.

Because of his body, length, athleticism and defensive skill set, he has a much better chance than Tre or JP.

Yep, this pretty much nails it. Also, you have to keep in mind that those evaluating Naji at this point are not doing so through the lens of having to have actually watch full 40 minute games of sub-par Xavier basketball like we did.

[XU 87]

Absolutely. I am convinced that after Mack left, Goodin and Marshall never bought into Steele. Remember the tweet, which was quickly deleted from allegedly Naji saying that "I miss Chris Mack"? That was in November of 2018. I also think that Marshall thought that what offense Steele was doing was trash and he just decided to take it upon himself to save the team.

These first few games are going to be really interesting. Steele has a lot to prove.

What offense was Steele running as opposed to what Mack was running?

[X-band '01]

Absolutely. I am convinced that after Mack left, Goodin and Marshall never bought into Steele. Remember the tweet, which was quickly deleted from allegedly Naji saying that "I miss Chris Mack"? That was in November of 2018. I also think that Marshall thought that what offense Steele was doing was trash and he just decided to take it upon himself to save the team.

These first few games are going to be really interesting. Steele has a lot to prove.

Ironically, Xavier might have been better served losing games like Missouri and UConn where Marshall hit 3s in the closing seconds to extend the game. Would Steele have had a one-on-one with Naji and said "My way or the highway?"

Steele has not had that moment yet that I'm aware of.

[JTG]

Marshall and Goodin was a double edged sword. Steele had to play them to have a chance to win, Marshall moreso than Goodin. Goodin was just a mess. I think whoever said Marshall and Goodin didn't buy into Steele hit the nail on the head. Steele had to play Marshall, but I would have told Goodin to take a hike. I may be nuts, but I look for a vast improvement without those 2. Anyone who has coached knows that everyone on the same page, is much easier to manage. I had a kid like Naji once, and the team was a mess because we needed his scoring, but he was a lone wolf head case that did whatever he wanted. I had other kids that were similar, but could be reigned in. Naji just told Steele to eff off. I think we may not win as much, but will be more fun to watch. And don't underestimate the power of a cohesive team.

[Xavier]

Tough situation too. How would recruits look at Steele benching a 3 year PG and the most talented player on the team. Man, this season can't get here soon enough

[XU 87]

Marshall and Goodin was a double edged sword. Steele had to play them to have a chance to win, Marshall moreso than Goodin. Goodin was just a mess. I think whoever said Marshall and Goodin didn't buy into Steele hit the nail on the head. Steele had to play Marshall, but I would have told Goodin to take a hike. I may be nuts, but I look for a vast improvement without those 2. Anyone who has coached knows that everyone on the same page, is much easier to manage. I had a kid like Naji once, and the team was a mess because we needed his scoring, but he was a lone wolf head case that did whatever he wanted. I had other kids that were similar, but could be reigned in. Naji just told Steele to eff off. I think we may not win as much, but will be more fun to watch. And don't underestimate the power of a cohesive team.

Interesting thoughts. I think it's fair to argue that Goodin was so bad last year that he really didn't help the team. Naji overall helped the team, but he sure could have helped MUCH more had he just played smarter and more under control. And that leads me to my post above- at what point does a coach look at his best player and say, "You're going to do things my way, or you're going to see a lot more minutes on the bench"? Very tough call to make.

[AviatorX]

Interesting thoughts. I think it's fair to argue that Goodin was so bad last year that he really didn't help the team. Naji overall helped the team, but he sure could have helped MUCH more had he just played smarter and more under control. And that leads me to my post above- at what point does a coach look at his best player and say, "You're going to do things my way, or you're going to see a lot more minutes on the bench"? Very tough call to make.

You have it pegged. Already a tough tough decision for a young coach, and I can only imagine it gets tougher when you look down your bench and see what Travis saw on the roster to fill those (close to) 40 minutes.

My way or the highway is great, until your way is Dontarious James playing 30 minutes a night.

[XU 87]

My way or the highway is great, until your way is Dontarious James playing 30 minutes a night.

Good point.

[Drew]

I am actually very confident in this upcoming team and in Steele as a whole. But if he doesn't learn from the Goodin mistake and gives Scrugg's passes because of seniority then I will be pretty disappointed. I love Scruggs and have nothing but respect for him but if it becomes obvious that Dwon Odom is a better PG then I would hope he would win that position fair and square. And again, I feel for Scruggs because I think he has a great work ethic and unique skillset, but thus far that hasn't materialized into a reliable starting PG imo. Again, no malice, I hope Scruggs has a great senior year and does a great job, Go X!

[JTG]

I am actually very confident in this upcoming team and in Steele as a whole. But if he doesn't learn from the Goodin mistake and gives Scrugg's passes because of seniority then I will be pretty disappointed. I love Scruggs and have nothing but respect for him but if it becomes obvious that Dwon Odom is a better PG then I would hope he would win that position fair and square. And again, I feel for Scruggs because I think he has a great work ethic and unique skillset, but thus far that hasn't materialized into a reliable starting PG imo. Again, no malice, I hope Scruggs has a great senior year and does a great job, Go X!

If Scruggs is better as the off guard, then it's wrong to get pissed at him for not being a great point guard. Let Odom or Tandy play the point and see how it plays out. Or at least let Odom and Tandy do it part time, and see if they hold their own and Scruggs flourishes. I can't take another season of PG with head up his ass play.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

I am actually very confident in this upcoming team and in Steele as a whole. But if he doesn't learn from the Goodin mistake and gives Scrugg's passes because of seniority then I will be pretty disappointed. I love Scruggs and have nothing but respect for him but if it becomes obvious that Dwon Odom is a better PG then I would hope he would win that position fair and square. And again, I feel for Scruggs because I think he has a great work ethic and unique skillset, but thus far that hasn't materialized into a reliable starting PG imo. Again, no malice, I hope Scruggs has a great senior year and does a great job, Go X!

I share your confidence (although what I call confidence contains a strong measure of hope). But, I think your argument is a bit misdirected. Most of us on this board agree (I think) that Scruggs is not a natural P.G. His more natural position is the "2" although playing him in that role requires Tandy, Odom, or somebody to step up. I think Scruggs could open at P.G. but I don't really expect that. Based on what I know right now (which isn't anything more than anyone else knows) I think we see Tandy at the point.

And, I think Scruggs will have an outstanding year. I'm pulling for that guy. He has put up with a lot of bull***t from Goodin, Marshall, et al.

[xukeith]

I share your confidence (although what I call confidence contains a strong measure of hope). But, I think your argument is a bit misdirected. Most of us on this board agree (I think) that Scruggs is not a natural P.G. His more natural position is the "2" although playing him in that role requires Tandy, Odom, or somebody to step up. I think Scruggs could open at P.G. but I don't really expect that. Based on what I know right now (which isn't anything more than anyone else knows) I think we see Tandy at the point.

And, I think Scruggs will have an outstanding year. I'm pulling for that guy. He has put up with a lot of bull***t from Goodin, Marshall, et al.

I share your concerns. Maybe in this time in college basketball worlds, traditional point guards no longer are what we fans think. Coaches roll the dice with freakish athletic players with the awesome skill sets to pose greater threats. We shall see..;;.

[xukeith]

If Scruggs is better as the off guard, then it's wrong to get pissed at him for not being a great point guard. Let Odom or Tandy play the point and see how it plays out. Or at least let Odom and Tandy do it part time, and see if they hold their own and Scruggs flourishes. I can't take another season of PG with head up his ass play.

Rolling the dice scares me.
Odom sounds like an amazing point guard. Tandy never has played pg. Tandy is a 2 guard who scores a ton. He wasn't highly recruited (top 50). HE looked uncomfortable bringing the ball up the court last year.

[drudy23]

I share your concerns. Maybe in this time in college basketball worlds, traditional point guards no longer are what we fans think. Coaches roll the dice with freakish athletic players with the awesome skill sets to pose greater threats. We shall see..;;.

Yes.

There's no point in limiting any of our high ceiling guys because of "position" questions. When we play Villanova, do you ever think about their positions when they're lighting us up? No.

You just think, damn they're good. Who cares about positions.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

If you think about it, Nova has, for the last few years, had a guy who played the "1" role pretty damn well---Ryan Arcidiacono, Josh Hart, Jaylen Brunson and now Gillespie . But, you're right, their guard play has been so outstanding, I can't think of a player who was so one dimensional, that you would want to limit their play----like say the way you would have wanted to limit Q's role over the last couple of years.

My comment discussed positions but, what I really should have said about Scruggs is that his strength (as I see it anyway) is playing off the ball and in the open floor. This year, on paper anyway, we seem to have a lot of backcourt talent and if we really do possess that much talent, were I Steele, I'd try to play an up-tempo game. That allows us to use the talent we have and try to keep players happy with their playing time. If we do that, we still need capable passing + ballhandling and of course. unselfish play---elements we lacked last year.

But, with really good athletes, we can let them play not focus on position roles. My memory of last year's play (which I'm working hard to expunge) is that we slowed the ball down a lot and often ran a set offense. Without the need to do that this year, we can hopefully just play.

But, I think the potential limiting factor to that is turnovers. Even when we slowed it down last year, we had lots of unforced errors---maddeningly high amounts of turnovers, some of them just plain dumbass turnovers. With so much young talent and so much new talent, it is hard to imagine this year's team won't generate lots of T.O.s which means they have to shoot and defend well.

That's my biggest concern about how we stack up in the B.E. We seem have the talent (I think) to compete but if we fail to protect the ball, we may lose games we otherwise would have won.

Anyway, I digress from the thread.