Game Thread: Xavier vs. Georgetown (January 9, 2019)

[paulxu]

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/kBAAAOSwqfNXkU44/s-l300.jpg VS. https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQhyhtvJIG2XbMIGRf9EFZef8QaMQcLT oOy9XpUKTzVT5Waj2oqJw

Xavier University Musketeers (9-7, 1-2 BE) vs. Georgetown Hoyas (11-4, 1-1 BE)
Wednesday, January 9, 2019, 6:30 PM EST
Cintas Center, (10,224), Cincinnati, OH

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

Notes and Stats (https://goxavier.com/news/2019/1/8/mens-basketball-returns-home-on-wednesday-night-to-host-georgetown.aspx?path=mbball)

Television: FS1 with play-by-play from Thom Brennaman and analysis from Nick Bahe.

Xavier Radio: 700 WLW-AM, including via iHeart Radio, TuneIn and via Sirius (99), XM (210) and Internet (964) with play-by-play from XU Hall of Famer and former Musketeer standout Joe Sunderman ('79). Analysis will be provided by Xavier Hall of Famer and XU all-time leading scorer Byron Larkin ('88).

Live Stats: Media stats at Statbroadcast.com. Fan stats at GoXavier.com.

[Muskie]

I was literally typing up the gamethread...

[Xville]

How does vegas have us favored in any game right now home game or not.

[Lloyd Braun]

How does vegas have us favored in any game right now home game or not.

Georgetown is a little banged up, and not a great team. I certainly however wouldn’t be comfortable wagering any amount on X. I haven’t been all year.

[Xville]

Georgetown is a little banged up, and not a great team. I certainly however wouldn’t be comfortable wagering any amount on X. I haven’t been all year.

I was beyond convinced x had zero chance the last two games on the spread and bet accordingly...made x losing not as bad as it could have been. This one I'm not touching because gtown isnt all that good as you said, but gun to my head I'd bet gtown on this one as well. X may win but I cant see them beating that spread.

[scoscox]

Thom on the call

[drudy23]

Is McClung playing (he's been hurt)? Not that he makes the difference, but I'd like to see him dunk in warm-ups.

[Lloyd Braun]

Is McClung playing (he's been hurt)? Not that he makes the difference, but I'd like to see him dunk in warm-ups.

He’s a GTD

[noteggs]

Is McClung playing (he's been hurt)? Not that he makes the difference, but I'd like to see him dunk in warm-ups.

Talk about a guy completely under ranked. Best ranking I saw on him was 235. Love his dunks and remember watching the YouTube’s of the “Mac and Zac” team.

[Nigel Tufnel]

How does vegas have us favored in any game right now home game or not.


Vegas definitely likes X tonight. 64% of wagers coming in on Gtown. Line went from 3.5 all the way up to 6. Now sitting at X -4.5. I promised myself not to bet on X this year. I got burned taking them against SDST. Not going to let that happen again. The numbers say take X. My eyes and brain say, "stay the hell away."

I'll save my money for this weekend's NFL games.

[xuwin]

Thom on the call

Can't stand Thom. He never shuts his mouth.

[Nigel Tufnel]

And as for the NFL this weekend....woof, woof.

[Nigel Tufnel]

My buddy just texted me that Q is out tonight.

[xu82]

Vegas definitely likes X tonight. 64% of wagers coming in on Gtown. Line went from 3.5 all the way up to 6. Now sitting at X -4.5. I promised myself not to bet on X this year. I got burned taking them against SDST. Not going to let that happen again. The numbers say take X. My eyes and brain say, "stay the hell away."

I'll save my money for this weekend's NFL games.

I suggest listening to your eyes and brain.

[xu82]

My buddy just texted me that Q is out tonight.

Why? And is that bad?

[bjf123]

My buddy just texted me that Q is out tonight.

Yep. Shannon just tweeted that.


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[paulxu]

My buddy just texted me that Q is out tonight.

I'm going to start thinking when Q has an injury, something else is going on. Don't want to think that.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

If we are going to win 7-8 conference games this has to be one of them.

[GoMuskies]

Tonight will be a nice reminder to all of us why Q, with all the warts in his game, is still so valuable to this team.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Tonight will be a nice reminder to all of us why Q, with all the warts in his game, is still so valuable to this team.

Agree 100%, but he would be much more valuable if he played to his strengths.

[IM4X]

Tonight will be a nice reminder to all of us why Q, with all the warts in his game, is still so valuable to this team.

I was looking forward to seeing him come off the bench, shining like the difference maker we know he has the potential to be.

Oh well.

[AviatorX]

Tonight will be a nice reminder to all of us why Q, with all the warts in his game, is still so valuable to this team.

Don't put it past the crowd on here...Goodin is the ultimate whipping boy.

[bjf123]

The ribbon display and center court are showing we’re playing Seton Hall???


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[ArizonaXUGrad]

I think Q and Steele may be at an impasse. Well, tonight could and probably is really a knee injury. I think Q sees himself as a team leader and it's primary scorer. Steele sees this team needing him to be a pass first facilitator and scoring when the opportunity arises. Good coaches get players on the same page.

[GoMuskies]

Don't put it past the crowd on here...Goodin is the ultimate whipping boy.

And I whip him from time to time, because he does some really bad stuff.

But we need him for sure.

[Xville]

What the heck does castlin do to continue earning starting minutes? In games, he has given us nothing for a long time.

[Xville]

Don't put it past the crowd on here...Goodin is the ultimate whipping boy.

The way hes been playing lately, I doubt we miss him at all.

[GoMuskies]

What the heck does castlin do to continue earning starting minutes?

He is a member of a bad team that doesn't have particularly appealing alternatives? But yeah, not sure.

[GoMuskies]

Imagine how bad we'd be if Hankins had not picked X. I wish he'd have had a chance to play on a better Xavier team.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

3 minutes and 3 threes, 2018/19 Xavier basketball.....on defense.

[Xville]

He is a member of a bad team that doesn't have particularly appealing alternatives? But yeah, not sure.

True, but as banners said, he doesnt help the team now, and has zero chance to next year or the following so might as well start elias or kk.

[IM4X]

Great hustle... great patience to find Wealage for the three and Hankins inside.

Encouraging.

Let’s go X!!!!

[noteggs]

Imagine how bad we'd be if Hankins had not picked X. I wish he'd have had a chance to play on a better Xavier team.

I know we say this a lot of Grads, but would love to see him in X uni more than one year.

[Xville]

We love giving up wide open 3s....been a xavier tradition for way too many years now.

[Xville]

Naji just got put on a poster.

[Xville]

Should have went with my gut and bet g town. Would have made this game way more watchable.

[X Factor]

G'Town is 5-5 from three.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

5 threes, can Steele please focus on perimeter defense?

[GoMuskies]

Welp

[IM4X]

Allowing too many second chances..

Where did Jones go. They are too big inside without him.

[AviatorX]

5 threes, can Steele please focus on perimeter defense?

This can't be serious...most of those were heavily contested. Turns out the other team has scholarship players as well.

[IM4X]

Should have went with my gut and bet g town. Would have made this game way more watchable.

Looking a little rough. Maybe we can step it up

[ArizonaXUGrad]

This can't be serious...most of those were heavily contested. Turns out the other team has scholarship players as well.

Um no, all but that last one were heavily slowed close out contested threes. You have to close quicker or you give the player too long to set and nail it.

Did you watch the replay? There you go, you can't be that slow.

[Xville]

Holy crap castlin scored! It's a Christmas miracle!

[GoMuskies]

most of those were heavily contested

wut

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

This can't be serious...most of those were heavily contested. Turns out the other team has scholarship players as well.

But unlike our scholarship guys, sans 2, they hit contested (and open) threes.

[GoMuskies]

Holy crap castlin scored! It's a Christmas miracle!

More like it on the next possession!

[GoMuskies]

Govan nails another "heavily contested" 3 with no one around.

[X Factor]

We're getting worse. Absolutely no improvement.

[IM4X]

looks like GT has 7 players out there.

[XfansinKy]

No they weren't. Our guys are too fucking slow and/or indecisive to close out.

[AviatorX]

Govan nails another "heavily contested" 3 with no one around.

Admittedly I only have one eye on the game...but three of the first four weren't huge defensive breakdowns as much as nice shots. Last few way worse. Would not be the first time I get burned for not watching closely.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

17-2 run. how does that happen.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Govan nails another "heavily contested" 3 with no one around.

Lulz the heavily contested threes. This defense is just horrid.

[GoMuskies]

Govan missed one! But it was the most open one yet.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Ok, to credit to the guys that last offensive set the referees gave us zero respect. Respect is earned though.

[Xville]

Oh look another wise open 3

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Admittedly I only have one eye on the game...but three of the first four weren't huge defensive breakdowns as much as nice shots. Last few way worse. Would not be the first time I get burned for not watching closely.

This is hard to watch closely. I'm wondering if there are any "Gilligan's Isle" re-runs on tonight.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

The real issue here is not the missed assignment three it's the lazy closeout three. Georgetown is hitting both and really all teams we play are hitting them and it is killing us.

[AviatorX]

Oh look another wise open 3

Agreed. Since my lukewarm take every single one has been a bad one basically. No questioning the defense sucks.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Wow, these referees are really letting them play. Missed three point foul, missed reach in, missed travel. They are consistent though.

[X Factor]

Worst defensive and shooting team I've seen at Xavier in forever!!

How did we end up with a bunch of guys who lack one of the most important skills in basketball...shooting?

[ArizonaXUGrad]

These guys are drained. They have nothing in the tank and no will power to go that next gear. Malinowski just made Castlin look like he was standing still and he is our better guard defender not named Scruggs.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Got to give Ewing some credit. He's got his guys playing hard and with confidence. They are not intimidated by Cintas at all. Although X is not playing well, this looks like a better Georgetown team than we have seen in awhile.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

I'm not sure I've ever seen Tyrique effectively pass out of a double team.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Got to give Ewing some credit. He's got his guys playing hard and with confidence. They are not intimidated by Cintas at all. Although X is not playing well, this looks like a better Georgetown team than we have seen in awhile.

Minus his son and minus McClung who has been playing well. Really, this team is Kenpom 89. They aren't even that great, we just suck a lot worse.

[whopper]

my heart goes out to the players..they need to have some joy in the game. I have been there..everything going wrong, effort not rewarded, hanging head. I was looking at a Tre highlight youtube today and I kind of realized what we lost. Now I am seeing the joy. We are not as good it seems but damn I want some passion and joy. Now I am seeing the passion and joy. Win or lose I can accept the result but I did not see some doing their best. I guess the mark of a real champion is what you do when things are not going your way.

[noteggs]

Nice end to first half

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

much needed end to the half. Steele broken whiteboard. Love to see it.

[XU 23]

No more jumpshots for the rest of the season... layups only!

[xudash]

my heart goes out to the players..they need to have some joy in the game. I have been there..everything going wrong, effort not rewarded, hanging head. I was looking at a Tre highlight youtube today and I kind of realized what we lost. Now I am seeing the joy. We are not as good it seems but damn I want some passion and joy

Certainly A lot of joy in the last three minutes of the half.

I don't know what happens from here, but I really give these guys credit for not giving up. And it did seem that Georgetown was ungodly accurate from three early on.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

X somehow finds itself down 5 after Gtown shot 54% from three while X shot 11% from three and got 0 from Scruggs. Wow.

[Xville]

Whoa! I stop watching to put the kids to sleep, and the team starts playing well. Maybe I shouldn't watch the second half.

[xukeith]

I am not watching but frequently watching ESPN app.
I see Jones and Hankins playing together.

Maybe that causes slow play and easy Hoya 3's.

Good defense and only 2 turnovers.

Very nervous about 2nd half.

[X Factor]

No more jumpshots for the rest of the season... layups only!

It's 2019, not 1957.

[bjf123]

Whoa! I stop watching to put the kids to sleep, and the team starts playing well. Maybe I shouldn't watch the second half.

Go away!


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[IM4X]

Great move to switch the defense. Players patiently playing smarter. Digging deeper. Love it.

Let’s Go X!

[noteggs]

Go away!


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Agree! Think I hear your kids crying Xville.

[xukeith]

Kyle castlin is having the game of HIS LIFE!!!!!

4 points!

[xu82]

Hoyas 7/13 from 3 and we are 1/9. We should be happy to be this close.

[Xville]

Agree! Think I hear your kids crying Xville.

Ha I promise I will turn it off if they start playing bad again!

Tyrique with the and 1....I don't think we can question this teams heart

[mid major]

Don’t know if I should be excited about this 12-0 run to close the half or wonder how did we find ourselves down 17 points to Gtown in the first place.

[IM4X]

Ha I promise I will turn it off if they start playing bad again!

Tyrique with the and 1....I don't think we can question this teams heart

No, not today. I would be pumped to see them play like this the rest of the year!

[Xville]

Ugh naji....play within your self bud.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Naji goes Naji with a bad drive into traffic. I will take mistakes, we can't string several together.

[Xville]

Love seeing the fire from steele... finally!!!

[xu82]

Ugh naji....play within your self bud.

That is a lesson he has yet to learn.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Love this, I want to see them rewarded with a win but this is what we have been lacking.

[xu82]

We MADE a THREE!!!

[IM4X]

Getting the rock to a good shooter... and continuing to drive and get the contact.

Loving this NEW X team!!!!

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Love seeing Eazy-E get some confidence

[Xville]

I'm sure he is a good kid and I hate to rag on an x player, but the reality is that we dont miss q at all tonight.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Love this, I want to see them rewarded with a win but this is what we have been lacking.

Bingo!

[xu82]

Please run away with this!

[Xville]

Steele knows how big this game is for this team. Hes morri animated than I have ever seen him, and hes coaching his ass off.

[X Factor]

What a turn around...crowd is in to it...guys are playing hard. Close it out boys!

[xu82]

OK, at least squeak one out.....I’ll try to hang in and hope for that....

[noteggs]

I'm sure he is a good kid and I hate to rag on an x player, but the reality is that we dont miss q at all tonight.

If Q plays his role we are better overall. Unfortunately he hasn’t always done that.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Time for the gassed defense and it worked. I love Welage closing out on the three. He really went for that.

[KabeX]

Scruggs with 8 Pts, 4 Assists and 5 RBs - those are some good PG #s

[KabeX]

Scruggs with 8 Pts, 4 Assists and 5 RBs - those are some good PG #s

Oh and ZERO TOs

[xu82]

Scruggs with 8 Pts, 4 Assists and 5 RBs - those are some good PG #s

And 3 TO’s as a team??? Hmmmm

[xu82]

Maybe I’m overly sensitive tonight, but does 3 seconds not matter any more?

Naji just needs to play smarter.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

If Q plays his role we are better overall. Unfortunately he hasn’t always done that.

Yep, no way we are a better team without his best self, but he just hasn’t been anything close to that lately. For instance, tonight, we’ve only got 3 TOs

[KabeX]

Maybe I’m overly sensitive tonight, but does 3 seconds not matter any more?

Naji just needs to play smarter.

Yeah they might as well pitch a tent in the paint.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Damn Naji, once again we can't string together mistakes.

[KabeX]

OK he can have 1 TO but that's it.

[xu82]

Damn Naji, once again we can't string together mistakes.

He begs to differ. :-(

[xu82]

Sloppy Naji pass.....shocking!!!

[whopper]

we have our best defensive team in now and nobody with more than 3 fouls. Low on ball handling but Naji must be clean going forward as Hardin looks a little shaky. Praying for a win

[xukeith]

MOST shocking stat is Castlin has 4 points.

2nd shocking is Harden made 2 threes.

[xu82]

MOST shocking stat is Castlin has 4 points.

2nd shocking is Harden made 2 threes.

Are you turnover deaf?

[Xville]

It's nice to also have a coach that wears suits that fit...just saying

[Lloyd Braun]

I like the isos for Naji but he has finish

[xu82]

NEED these FT’s!!!!

[ArizonaXUGrad]

All those chances to score, we need something there.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

It's nice to also have a coach that wears suits that fit...just saying

Amen. Thank you.

[IM4X]

What a turn around...crowd is in to it...guys are playing hard. Close it out boys!

Yes. staying smart. Great patience. Milking the clock. No forced 3s. Getting to the line. Wow. Love this team!

I knew these guys could start putting it all together this year.

By the way... how about Jones Today!

[Lloyd Braun]

I want to see Tyrique take a couple 3s next game. Not joking either... I know the coaches read this board, make it happen!

[xu82]

If we win I think Paul should get a Hankins hairdo!

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Give up nothing fast and don't foul a three shot.

[GoMuskies]

After 39-22, this game was pure joy.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Can't really complain there, that was just a great shot.

[xu82]

They are a lot less sloppy team who has shown some grit tonight. (Now PLEASE finish!)

[Lloyd Braun]

After 39-22, this game was pure joy.

I turned it on at this exact score and almost turned it off. I forgot the game was earlier. I am also not a superstitious person and claim zero credit for it.

[whopper]

I am glad for the guys..every guy contributed. Q may have seen what we need to do and Hardin was huge. There is hope for the season. Tyrique remembered how to play and his foul shooting was incredible.. Castin, Welage both contributed and Hankins may be playing his way into an NBA camp this summer. Naji cold but a good leader tonight

[Xville]

Great job by Steele tonight. Extremely impressive.

[IM4X]

This is the Steele we were waiting for... Excellent job coach.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Proud of those guys.

[Nigel Tufnel]

Vegas knows more often than not. Crazy.

[Lloyd Braun]

What was the closing line and O/U? Had to be close

[Xville]

Now go beat the shit out of butler!

[noteggs]

4th in BE now...not bad

[X Factor]

That was great to watch. Both Jones and Hankins with double-doubles.

Guys stepped up and never gave up after getting down 18 points in the first half. Only 4 turnovers!

[xukeith]

And 3 TOÂ’s as a team??? Hmmmm

And outrebounded Hoyas.

FT shooting by Jones was perfect.

[xukeith]

X gave 5 points. Won by 6. Naji must of had a bet.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Steele knows how big this game is for this team. Hes morri animated than I have ever seen him, and hes coaching his ass off.

Not sure if Steele's passion was what drove this team's effort tonight. Or if that passion reflected his team's effort. But, this is the coach, I think, we need to see more.

[IM4X]

4th in BE now...not bad

Okay, admit you are just a little pissed at Naji... making that last shot and messing up your perfect score.

[bobbiemcgee]

love a 4 TO game.

[paulxu]

I've discovered a secret.
I couldn't watch the game; had a commitment.
Driving home I turn on WLW...can pick them up here at night in South Carolina.
Byron and Joe are talking post game, and I hear we won the game...and almost drove off the road.

Maybe I shouldn't watch them anymore. Respect the streak. Even if it's only one game long.

[xukeith]

I've discovered a secret.
I couldn't watch the game; had a commitment.
Driving home I turn on WLW...can pick them up here at night in South Carolina.
Byron and Joe are talking post game, and I hear we won the game...and almost drove off the road.

Maybe I shouldn't watch them anymore. Respect the streak. Even if it's only one game long.

Wish there were podcasts where I could listen to J and B postgame. They are great. Travis is more candid with them too.

[whopper]

I liked the fact that Q was extremely engaged on the bench. He knows he has not played well and now can see what a clean game it. I noticed much more purpose on the passes, better spacing to even Castlin and Welage as safety valves and the safety valves were utilized tonight which minimized turnovers. I am glad Castin played well and Welage enabled the double low post by staying far from ball on the weak side. Little things like Hardin handling the ball acceptably. We know the formula and of course this will be scouted but know we should be able to adapt especially adding a healthy AND humbled Q.

[paulxu]

Does anyone know if there will be a replay of the game available?

[vee4xu]

A potential watershed game in what has been a so far turbulent season. Well done Muskies.

[skyking]

I am glad for the guys..every guy contributed. Q may have seen what we need to do and Hardin was huge. There is hope for the season. Tyrique remembered how to play and his foul shooting was incredible.. Castin, Welage both contributed and Hankins may be playing his way into an NBA camp this summer. Naji cold but a good leader tonight

I think it is "Harden".

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

something about 17 point deficits against Georgetown at Cintas.

[xu82]

That was great to watch. Both Jones and Hankins with double-doubles.

Guys stepped up and never gave up after getting down 18 points in the first half. Only 4 turnovers!

Maybe we figured out where we need to go? Behind the arc is not our thing.

[xu82]

Does anyone know if there will be a replay of the game available?

Sure...come on by! I record them all.

They will have replay at 4:00am on FS1 if you can record it...or are an insomniac.

Edit: or FSSHD, same time.

[bjf123]

Does anyone know if there will be a replay of the game available?

4:00AM on FS1


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[GreatWhiteNorth]

Treasure every win! I am still very much concerned about our lack of 3pt shooting. It’s encouraging to see just 4 T.O.s though. Keep up the good work.... be smart and protect the ball.

[letskeepitreal]

This is the kind of game that can change the trajectory of the season. The team may now believe that they can come back from adversity and a huge hole. Congrats guys. Well played.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Minus his son and minus McClung who has been playing well. Really, this team is Kenpom 89. They aren't even that great, we just suck a lot worse.

Mourning's son, not Ewings.

[Strange Brew]

Wish there were podcasts where I could listen to J and B postgame. They are great. Travis is more candid with them too.

You can listen live on iHeart radio from your favorite device. Breaks up my 1.5 hour commute (16 miles)....

[noteggs]

Okay, admit you are just a little pissed at Naji... making that last shot and messing up your perfect score.

YES I AM. Thanks for the reminder. Ha even told my wife.

[Xuperman]

This is the kind of game that can change the trajectory of the season. The team may now believe that they can come back from adversity and a huge hole. Congrats guys. Well played.

You are so right and fortunately in a positive direction! It could have easily went the other way. There were those few minutes when GU was building the lead to 17, we had lost the building....it felt like the team had it's heart ripped out. In that moment, our guys looked as if they might whimper away but Coach Steele would not allow it. He exuded confidence in the face of adversity. Coach made us all proud tonight.

[paulxu]

4:00AM on FS1


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This did not help to read at 6:30 this morning. Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrgh.

[bjf123]

This did not help to read at 6:30 this morning. Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrgh.

It repeats on Fox Sports Ohio at 3:00PM today. Don’t know if you can see that in SC.


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[paulxu]

It repeats on Fox Sports Ohio at 3:00PM today. Don’t know if you can see that in SC.


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Nope. But thanks for the tip!

[SkyWalker]

Interesting thread. Just read it in its entirety this morning. Tale of two halves. Certainly agree that we are 3 point shot challenged. Props to Harden especially his zone defense late in the game - great effort. This is a game we can build on and demonstrates the winning formula for this team - limit turnovers, make free throws and compete on the boards. Very entertaining game to watch and the crowd was into it in the second half.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Mourning's son, not Ewings.

You are right, as far as contributors go it was an even loss of talent.

Good win and could change the team’s future outlook. It is our first top 100 win for now. Georgetown is hovering just inside at the moment.


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[muskies1235]

I think it's hilarious that before this game the conventional wisdom from so called experts was that this team is what it is and that there were no tactical moves left for Trav to employ in the name of improvement.

Who would have ever thought putting 2 of your 4 best players on the floor together might not be a bad idea.

Heck of an adjustment if you ask me.

[muskienick]

What the heck does castlin do to continue earning starting minutes? In games, he has given us nothing for a long time.

He starts, but he doesn't always play "starter's minutes." For example, last night Castlin started and played only 11 minutes while non-starters, Harden and Wellage played 24 and 21 minutes respectively.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

I think it's hilarious that before this game the conventional wisdom from so called experts was that this team is what it is and that there were no tactical moves left for Trav to employ in the name of improvement.

Who would have ever thought putting 2 of your 4 best players on the floor together might not be a bad idea.

Heck of an adjustment if you ask me.


I, for one, didn't think it was that great an idea but damn, it sure seemed to work. I don't know if that was an adjustment specific to G.T. as a way to neutralize their bigs or if it was more designed to change things up. Doesn't matter either way, I guess, but it really seemed to make a difference.

And, if you'd said to me, before the game, "we just have to find a way to get Tyrique to the free throw line more often", I admit I would have puked right then and there.

If this is a change to the lineup going forward, my question is what happens if Tyrique and Hankins get into foul trouble? Do we go small ball or is James capable of filling in? I haven't seen enough of James to have an opinion and I know little of his high school history.

[Xville]

I think it's hilarious that before this game the conventional wisdom from so called experts was that this team is what it is and that there were no tactical moves left for Trav to employ in the name of improvement.

Who would have ever thought putting 2 of your 4 best players on the floor together might not be a bad idea.

Heck of an adjustment if you ask me.

That, the 2-3 zone and the stop doing stupid shit i.e. forcing things and turning the ball over were the reasons we won. Hope q figures that last part out. Otherwise just sit his butt on the bench.

[fellahmuskie]

It was a good night at Cintas. I would love to see what this team can do if they continue to take care of the ball, attack the basket and win the ft and rebounding battles.

I also have a feeling last night was a much bigger win for Travis than he wants to admit. To do it with Q on the bench and down 17 has to give the players a ton of confidence in his ability to manage a game and lead them to victory.

Sunday will be huge because Butler is struggling too. It also may snow all day Saturday and Sunday morning, which could make things interesting.

[muskies1235]

I, for one, didn't think it was that great an idea but damn, it sure seemed to work.

Whether it would work or not wasn't really my point although like you said it did in a big way.

I just think it's funny when the so called experts throw their hands up and say "well, i mean Travis has tried everything not sure what else anyone expects him to try with this roster LOLZ" and then talk down to and make fun of fans calling for adjustments to be made.

Clearly the narrative that Travis had "emptied the clip" already so to speak with this roster was wrong.

[IM4X]

He starts, but he doesn't always play "starter's minutes." For example, last night Castlin started and played only 11 minutes while non-starters, Harden and Wellage played 24 and 21 minutes respectively.

On the flip side, some players are slow to get going when they start in a game, but are instant sparks coming off the bench. JP comes to mind. A great player no doubt , but sometimes he would be a little slow to get going when starting. Yet, often times when he came off the bench, he proved to be the instant spark the team desperately needed.

Villanova’s DiVincenzo proved it doesn’t matter if you start. It just matter how well you play when you get in the game. He came off the bench often during the season and still won the final four Most Outstanding player and became a first round pick.

[xudash]

From the Washington Post:

SERIES DOMINATION

In addition to their six straight wins over the Hoyas, the Musketeers have dominated the series 14-4.

I read that and immediately considered where these two programs stood the first time we beat them to make it to the S16. This may be a tough year when it is all said and done, but it still has been a remarkable journey over time, and we're still going to have fun on the way to accomplishing the final 2%.

[Xville]

Whether it would work or not wasn't really my point although like you said it did in a big way.

I just think it's funny when the so called experts throw their hands up and say "well, i mean Travis has tried everything not sure what else anyone expects him to try with this roster LOLZ" and then talk down to and make fun of fans calling for adjustments to be made.

Clearly the narrative that Travis had "emptied the clip" already so to speak with this roster was wrong.

Slow your roll. Just because it worked one game against what is probably a 7-10 seed in the big east, doesnt mean it's going to work all season. A huge difference in the game had nothing to do with tactics...it was not forcing shots, and not turning the ball over.

Also, I dont believe anyone was making fun of fans calling for adjustments to be made...there is just disagreement whether it's a coach issue or a roster issue.

[muskies1235]

Slow your roll. Just because it worked one game against what is probably a 7-10 seed in the big east, doesnt mean it's going to work all season.

I see reading comprehension is not your strong suit.

Literally the first line of the post you're responding to:


Whether it would work or not wasn't really my point although like you said it did in a big way.

The point is that the so called experts that spent the last two weeks talking down to fans and telling them they were ridiculous for suggesting Travis make adjustments when there were none to make were dead ass wrong.

Whether it worked or not, playing the two bigs together is an adjustment that was available to Travis.

[IM4X]

From the Washington Post:

SERIES DOMINATION

In addition to their six straight wins over the Hoyas, the Musketeers have dominated the series 14-4.

I read that and immediately considered where these two programs stood the first time we beat them to make it to the S16. This may be a tough year when it is all said and done, but it still has been a remarkable journey over time, and we're still going to have fun on the way to accomplishing the final 2%.

Good post. A good feeling indeed.

I was at that beautiful game, where our twin towers (Hill and Strong) kept their twin towers in check. Let’s hope we keep our two bigs in together often moving forward.

These guys now get how playing a little smarter and a little harder every game can lead to wins even when shooting isn’t perfect. It’s been the Villanova way under Wright for years and it was the Steele way last night. The team listened. They bought in. Let’s keep this going.

[XUGRAD80]

the Jones-Hankin tandem wasn’t working so well when GT was making their shots
it was working better when they were missing because X was controlling the boards
making shots hides a multiple of sins. (Who said that?)
the tandem big lineup won’t work against everyone
the tandem big lineup was not used exclusively during the game
IMO the change to a zone defense was much more important
I like the tandem big lineup, amd think we will see it more
after seeing it more, it’s true value will be established
who knows what tomorrow will bring?

Also....Good to see Harden begins to contribute, I hope we see it more and more, along with Kennedy

[American X]

Nice win.

Is Naji Marshall not allowed to finish shots anymore? I did not get that memo.

[Muskie]

Nice win.

Is Naji Marshall not allowed to finish shots anymore? I did not get that memo.

I think it’s more of a wish that sometimes he would take a pull up jump shot instead of driving deep into the lane.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[Xville]

I see reading comprehension is not your strong suit.

Literally the first line of the post you're responding to:



The point is that the so called experts that spent the last two weeks talking down to fans and telling them they were ridiculous for suggesting Travis make adjustments when there were none to make were dead ass wrong.

Whether it worked or not, playing the two bigs together is an adjustment that was available to Travis.

Who were these "so called experts" that were talking down to fans and telling them they were ridiculous? There was disagreement on here about roster vs coaching. The only "making fun of" was when someone made the suggestion that having fun during games was hurting the team.

[paulxu]

I'd like to see a video of Travis breaking the whiteboard.

[IM4X]

Slow your roll. Just because it worked one game against what is probably a 7-10 seed in the big east, doesnt mean it's going to work all season. A huge difference in the game had nothing to do with tactics...it was not forcing shots, and not turning the ball over.

Also, I dont believe anyone was making fun of fans calling for adjustments to be made...there is just disagreement whether it's a coach issue or a roster issue.


There were indiviuals posting comments with the notion that this current roster didn’t have enough talent this year to be any better and that we would have to wait until next year to see any improvement. There were some, myself included, who believed it wasn’t that their wasn’t enough talent coaching or on the roster but that they just weren’t playing/ coaching up to their potential.

In the end, it doesn’t matter who said what though... what matters is that this team and Steele have proven they can indeed get on the same page and dig deeper and coach and player smarter and harder.

[muskies1235]

Who were these "so called experts" that were talking down to fans and telling them they were ridiculous?

Broering was on twitter roasting people after the Seton Hall game.

[Xville]

Broering was on twitter roasting people after the Seton Hall game.

Ah did not see that. My apologies.

[muskies1235]

Ah did not see that. My apologies.

https://i.ibb.co/Yc0VjQB/adjustments.jpg

No worries. Probably came in a little hot on this one, but that dude has rubbed me the wrong way for awhile with the way he talks down to people and acts like a knowitall

[ArizonaXUGrad]

I think most of us agree the talent is here this year to have an ok year. The team just has to play within themselves which they have not. We have players trying to do things they just don’t have the talent. Whether it’s a coaching thing to convince the player to stop or a player thing to buy in is the question.

I also think we all agree that next year there will be more talent to pick from game in and game out.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[94GRAD]

What was the closing line and O/U? Had to be close

-5 and 155. Vegas knows!!!

[Lloyd Braun]

-5 and 155. Vegas knows!!!

So another Naji missed FT would have been a push. Wow

[xu82]

There were indiviuals posting comments with the notion that this current roster didn’t have enough talent this year to be any better and that we would have to wait until next year to see any improvement. There were some, myself included, who believed it wasn’t that their wasn’t enough talent coaching or on the roster but that they just weren’t playing/ coaching up to their potential.

In the end, it doesn’t matter who said what though... what matters is that this team and Steel have proven they can indeed get on the same page and dig deeper and coach and player smarter and harder.

Yeah, there seemed to be a debate as to whether the coaches OR the players needed to be better. The answer was the coaches AND the players need to be better. Last night was encouraging. Let’s hope we can continue to make progress, that’s all we can hope for.

[Xuperman]

Who were these "so called experts" that were talking down to fans and telling them they were ridiculous? There was disagreement on here about roster vs coaching. The only "making fun of" was when someone made the suggestion that having fun during games was hurting the team.

I thought he was referring to people on this board and we all know SNIPE is the only true expert here. He laid out the blueprint for the Jones/Hankins juggernaut!!

[Caveat]

It was a good night at Cintas. I would love to see what this team can do if they continue to take care of the ball, attack the basket and win the ft and rebounding battles.

I also have a feeling last night was a much bigger win for Travis than he wants to admit. To do it with Q on the bench and down 17 has to give the players a ton of confidence in his ability to manage a game and lead them to victory.

Sunday will be huge because Butler is struggling too. It also may snow all day Saturday and Sunday morning, which could make things interesting.

It was big because Travis finally just lost it on his guys -- the effort and execution weren't there in the first half and the team was on the verge of getting run in their own building.

The team could've folded up and not responded, but they didn't. They listened to him, fed off his energy, and played excellent basketball. That's *huge* for Travis to get that out of his team when he pushes the pedal down.

[GoMuskies]

No worries. Probably came in a little hot on this one, but that dude has rubbed me the wrong way for awhile with the way he talks down to people and acts like a knowitall

Most of these Rivals/Scouts/247 "experts" get on my nerves. Generally, these guys are good at knowing where 16-17 year-old kids are interested in going for college and what colleges are interested in those kids. They mostly should stay in their lane.

[IM4X]

Yeah, there seemed to be a debate as to whether the coaches OR the players needed to be better. The answer was the coaches AND the players need to be better. Last night was encouraging. Let’s hope we can continue to make progress, that’s all we can hope for.

Yes, let’s hope we see this kind of play continue.

It’s exciting to see the lightbulb has finally turned on for Steele and this team. They are obviously going to need to get better at 3 point shooting, but at least they now know how to play as a team and Steele figured out a way to put them in a better position to succeed.

[muskies1235]

Most of these Rivals/Scouts/247 "experts" get on my nerves. Generally, these guys are good at knowing where 16-17 year-old kids are interested in going for college and what colleges are interested in those kids. They mostly should stay in their lane.

They usually don't bother me until they start talking down to people and especially when they are dead wrong during the talking down.

[JTG]

With the broken play board I think Steele finally sent the message "I've had enough of this crap. Do what I tell you or else".

[X Factor]

They usually don't bother me until they start talking down to people and especially when they are dead wrong during the talking down.

Agree. They are so smug, and if you don't kiss their butt, everyone else will downvote you to oblivion.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Love the win, but it is what it is. We beat a team ranked about 6 spots lower than us on Kenpom at home by 5. They were missing their starting forward and point guard and we were missing our started point guard. I call that even since Mourning isn't really dominant and not sure he is even starting anymore.

Butler is a huge step here. They are 40 spots higher than we are, but after watching last night this could be a winnable game for us at home. If Q returns and plays within the team concept and does what he does well, we have a real shot at beating them.

[Masterofreality]

So another Naji missed FT would have been a push. Wow

That foul call at the end with .02. Hmmmmmm.

[Masterofreality]

This is the Steele we were waiting for... Excellent job coach.

I've been pretty critical of the staff lately, and I haven't been hiding today, just busy. But last night, everything came together.
I tweeted below before the game was over and it was still in doubt:
2316

Then Postgame, Snipe and I were interchanging and I answered him with this:
2317

The Whiteboard break may be the watershed moment for Travis Steele- the moment he became a REAL Head Coach. Last night, he did everything (almost) right, maybe because it was necessity, but he still did it right.
Only item I was still concerned with was why was Naji hanging on to the ball at game's end? Paul Scruggs is this team's best finisher and arguably, it's best Free Throw shooter. Not really sure why Naji was just allowed to stand out and dribble or be the guy driving to the hoop at the end of the shot clock. But whatever. Great to get that win last night, and I'll be at Cintas Sunday!

[GoMuskies]

Thanks for this. I'm now following Snipe. His Twitter feed is much tamer than I expected! :)

[Masterofreality]

Most of these Rivals/Scouts/247 "experts" get on my nerves. Generally, these guys are good at knowing where 16-17 year-old kids are interested in going for college and what colleges are interested in those kids. They mostly should stay in their lane.

Ya know. Some on here have called out Broering, but I find Snow to be insufferable.
I posted an opinion on there earlier this year that the fact that Q and Naji were playing 40 minutes a game was gonna hurt this team as the year moved along. I then said that there HAD to be some minutes parceled out to give these guys a blow here and there and that Travis just had to trust his bench guys a bit. Snow actually had the audacity to suggest that "Depth is overrated" then doubled down on it again when he was called out on it. Never heard any coach anywhere, nor most knowledgeable pundits who know basketball say that regarding the long term. Last night worked but it had to out of necessity. It won't if it goes 5 straight games like that.

[GoMuskies]

I'm sure Snow is a nice guy, but he's a terrible writer with no special insight on basketball. He's always been very plugged into the recruiting scene, though.

[XU 87]

Ya know. Some on here have called out Broering, but I find Snow to be insufferable.
I posted an opinion on there earlier this year that the fact that Q and Naji were playing 40 minutes a game was gonna hurt this team as the year moved along. I then said that there HAD to be some minutes parceled out to give these guys a blow here and there and that Travis just had to trust his bench guys a bit. Snow actually had the audacity to suggest that "Depth is overrated" then doubled down on it again when he was called out on it. Never heard any coach anywhere, nor most knowledgeable pundits who know basketball say that regarding the long term. Last night worked but it had to out of necessity. It won't if it goes 5 straight games like that.

To say the least, Snow doesn't like it when posters disagree with him.

[XU 87]

I'm sure Snow is a nice guy, but he's a terrible writer with no special insight on basketball. He's always been very plugged into the recruiting scene, though.

I actually think Rick and Snow both know their hoops. Snow's grammar and writing ain't the best.

[xukeith]

I think most of us agree the talent is here this year to have an ok year. The team just has to play within themselves which they have not. We have players trying to do things they just don’t have the talent. Whether it’s a coaching thing to convince the player to stop or a player thing to buy in is the question.

I also think we all agree that next year there will be more talent to pick from game in and game out.


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I think next year, 5 freshmen will be talented BUT take a lot of time to develop talent, weight gain, learn the system.
2020-2021 will be much better with lots more developed and experienced talent.

Now X does need 2 top 60 recruits to seal the final 4 deal over next 3 years.

[xukeith]

Yes whoever on twitter that posts Musketeer news banned me from following. Trevon Bluiett even blocked me. It is a badge of honor for these thin skinned egomaniacs.

[xukeith]

https://i.ibb.co/Yc0VjQB/adjustments.jpg

No worries. Probably came in a little hot on this one, but that dude has rubbed me the wrong way for awhile with the way he talks down to people and acts like a knowitall

I wish I could "like" this post. Messageboards are so 2004.

[IM4X]

I've been pretty critical of the staff lately, and I haven't been hiding today, just busy. But last night, everything came together.
I tweeted below before the game was over and it was still in doubt:
2316

Then Postgame, Snipe and I were interchanging and I answered him with this:
2317

The Whiteboard break may be the watershed moment for Travis Steele- the moment he became a REAL Head Coach. Last night, he did everything (almost) right, maybe because it was necessity, but he still did it right.
Only item I was still concerned with was why was Naji hanging on to the ball at game's end? Paul Scruggs is this team's best finisher and arguably, it's best Free Throw shooter. Not really sure why Naji was just allowed to stand out and dribble or be the guy driving to the hoop at the end of the shot clock. But whatever. Great to get that win last night, and I'll be at Cintas Sunday!

Ha... I think I agree about the whiteboard. I enjoyed seeing Steele get so stirred up that his assistants were trying to hold him back at one point. Then he turned and looked at them with a stern, “Get your hands off me” stare. I mean, love that Steele is a nice guy, but seeing a him come alive with emotion throughout the game with new sense of determination was a beautiful thing to behold.

I agree with you that it seems to make more sense for Scruggs to have the ball the end.

Funny though, how at the same moment you had that thought, I was watching Naji and thinking, “Damn, we are fortunate that Naji is a decent ball handler. How rough would this game have been (with Q being out), if Marshall dribble like most other small forwards?”

In the end, I think it might have been a good thing for Naji’s confidence. It showed Steele trusted him as a clutch player. Naji had shown he was finishing drives (or at least getting fouled) and he did seem to be in a bit of a zone. Hey, maybe he told Steele and his teammates he wanted the ball in his hands at the end of the game. Sometimes going with a player who exudes the most confidence works out better than going with one who statistically makes more sense.

[GIMMFD]

Haven't gotten to watch many games because I'm in thick of medical school stuff before boards, but I just wanted to say that I'm incredibly proud of the guys last night, they came together, and orchestrated an incredible come back after being down 17 or what not in the first half. I think that's a testament to the mentality of the guys, I don't think there's been lack of effort, it just hasn't all came together yet, I think this was Steele's best coaching job so far, and makes me feel a little better about his X's and O's, obviously we are a very poor 3 point shooting team, and that's just not going to change at this point, but we did well in the paint, and Hankins really showed out last night, I wish we had him around for another year. Scruggs didn't have the most impressive game, but he's quietly becoming the motor of this team, he really works his ass off, I'm glad I was able to witness a win, and maybe this is the type of game to spring confidence into the guys and they can string together a good showing to the last couple months of the season. It was nice to see them fight, and while this may not be a season we enjoy by Xavier standards, this team still has talent, and can get some good results in.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I think it’s more of a wish that sometimes he would take a pull up jump shot instead of driving deep into the lane.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

If he could master the pull up mid range jumpshot his game would go to a completely different level.

[noteggs]

Haven't gotten to watch many games because I'm in thick of medical school stuff before boards, but I just wanted to say that I'm incredibly proud of the guys last night, they came together, and orchestrated an incredible come back after being down 17 or what not in the first half. I think that's a testament to the mentality of the guys, I don't think there's been lack of effort, it just hasn't all came together yet, I think this was Steele's best coaching job so far, and makes me feel a little better about his X's and O's, obviously we are a very poor 3 point shooting team, and that's just not going to change at this point, but we did well in the paint, and Hankins really showed out last night, I wish we had him around for another year. Scruggs didn't have the most impressive game, but he's quietly becoming the motor of this team, he really works his ass off, I'm glad I was able to witness a win, and maybe this is the type of game to spring confidence into the guys and they can string together a good showing to the last couple months of the season. It was nice to see them fight, and while this may not be a season we enjoy by Xavier standards, this team still has talent, and can get some good results in.

Cut the medical school crap with not being on the board lately. We all know you’ve been in mourning because the loss of Holgorsen at WVU! I kid but if you want to comment on college football thread would be interested on hearing your take on the move because I don’t understand it except for existing ties to the Houston area.

[xu82]

Haven't gotten to watch many games because I'm in thick of medical school stuff before boards, but I just wanted to say that I'm incredibly proud of the guys last night, they came together, and orchestrated an incredible come back after being down 17 or what not in the first half. I think that's a testament to the mentality of the guys, I don't think there's been lack of effort, it just hasn't all came together yet, I think this was Steele's best coaching job so far, and makes me feel a little better about his X's and O's, obviously we are a very poor 3 point shooting team, and that's just not going to change at this point, but we did well in the paint, and Hankins really showed out last night, I wish we had him around for another year. Scruggs didn't have the most impressive game, but he's quietly becoming the motor of this team, he really works his ass off, I'm glad I was able to witness a win, and maybe this is the type of game to spring confidence into the guys and they can string together a good showing to the last couple months of the season. It was nice to see them fight, and while this may not be a season we enjoy by Xavier standards, this team still has talent, and can get some good results in.

Are you new here???

[GIMMFD]

Cut the medical school crap with not being on the board lately. We all know you’ve been in mourning because the loss of Holgorsen at WVU! I kid but if you want to comment on college football thread would be interested on hearing your take on the move because I don’t understand it except for existing ties to the Houston area.

Absolutely will type something up for you to hope explain it a bit more!!


Are you new here???

Oh come on bud, you know you miss me!!

[xu82]

Absolutely will type something up for you to hope explain it a bit more!!



Oh come on bud, you know you miss me!!

I wish you’d either flunk out or become a doctor already and post regularly from the golf course! :-)

[XUGRAD80]

Haven't gotten to watch many games because I'm in thick of medical school stuff before boards....

You’ve got a lot to learn about getting your priorities straight and how to screw up you life. Talk to Snipe.

[American X]

With the broken play board I think Steele finally sent the message "I've had enough of this crap. Do what I tell you or else".

He'll break another whiteboard?

[GIMMFD]

You’ve got a lot to learn about getting your priorities straight and how to screw up you life. Talk to Snipe.

Hahaha maybe I'll shoot him a PM to figure out how to sabotage this whole medical career, I'm sure making an ass of myself at the Welcome Back Social by getting drunk as piss will be a good start, right?

[XUFan09]

I wish you’d either flunk out or become a doctor already and post regularly from the golf course! :-)

Shit, my wife must be doing it all wrong.

[xu82]

Shit, my wife must be doing it all wrong.

Rookie mistakes. If she married you she’s bright enough to figure it out. This will all work out. Even if she hates golf!

[XUFan09]

Rookie mistakes. If she married you she’s bright enough to figure it out. This will all work out. Even if she hates golf!Well, she likes more leisurely activities like Scrabble, but she wasn't a fan of my increased proficiency after getting into Words with Friends. I guess we will have to do something else, like brewery drinking. We are both into that, at least!

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[XUGRAD80]

Well, she likes more leisurely activities like Scrabble, but she wasn't a fan of my increased proficiency after getting into Words with Friends. I guess we will have to do something else, like brewery drinking. We are both into that, at least!

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

You CAN mix the two....lots of the breweries areound me have board games available for customers to use. It’s amazing the words that can be made up when some strong English Stouts are consumed....:facepalm:

[XUFan09]

You CAN mix the two....lots of the breweries areound me have board games available for customers to use. It’s amazing the words that can be made up when some strong English Stouts are consumed....:facepalm:My brother-in-law and his brother have always been a bit lax at what is allowed. One of them once played EIEIO, justifying it as a word from a song.

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[GoMuskies]

How about quone?