Game Thread: Xavier vs. Creighton (February 13, 2019)

[paulxu]

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/kBAAAOSwqfNXkU44/s-l300.jpg VS. https://www.decalsextremeonline.com/thumbnail.asp?file=assets/images/creightonblue_jaysmascot.jpg&maxx=300&maxy=0

Xavier University Musketeers (11-13, 3-8 BE) vs. Creighton Blue Jays (11-11, 4-7 BE)
Wednesday, February 13, 2019, 8:30 PM ET
Cintas Center (10,224) Cincinnati, OH

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

Notes and Stats (https://goxavier.com/news/2019/2/11/mens-basketball-hosts-creighton-on-wednesday-night-in-big-east-action.aspx?path=mbball)

Television: CBS Sports Network with play-by-play from Carter Blackburn and analysis from Xavier Hall of Famer and former XU head coach Pete Gillen.
Xavier Radio: 700 WLW-AM, including via iHeart Radio, TuneIn and via Sirius (146), XM (202) and Internet (965) 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.

[xu koop scoop]

Repeating subject of Tonight thread. Asking fans to root tonite like we are a Great Team, win or lose. Some players final decision on where to play may have been because of our fans. No fair weather fans now. Give Q his due for past achievements with some extra applause. Show the players that our fans can handle & support a down season.

[Jesuit4Life]

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Keep in mind we are also scheduled to be on CBS Sports Network for 2/20 at Seton Hall.

[X Factor]

Pete opens the broadcast by saying Xavier wins by rebounding and defense. Is he talking about on the season or just tonight?

[Xville]

Fantastic lacksadasical defense to open the game per usual.

[X-band '01]

They won't even get a chance to rebound if they keep giving Creighton easy buckets in transition.

[xu82]

It’s still this season, isn’t it? Because I feel like I’ve seen this game before. Keep fighting men! We are not overly talented, but there’s no excuse for lack of effort. Battle on!

[Xville]

Tyrique came to play!

[Xville]

Sounds like a morgue inside cintas..not that I blame them.

[SemajParlor]

Happy Tyrique is only a junior.

[bjf123]

Sounds like a morgue inside cintas..not that I blame them.

Yep. I think we’re waiting for the scoring drought to begin.


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[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Okay, I'm convinced Eli could be serviceable. That play he just made putting the ball on the deck and finding hankins has me convinced. Carry on.

[AviatorX]

Okay, I'm convinced Eli could be serviceable. That play he just made putting the ball on the deck and finding hankins has me convinced. Carry on.

Agreed he shows flashes. Could be solid just a matter of whether he sticks around.

[Xville]

Team playing better with q on the bench...gee I'm shocked.

[whopper]

the ref called an and 1 for welage..the far side ref overruled needlessly . Probably on reputation Glad he just hit the 3 and the are not letting Krampelj have his way. I have read he has more dunks than Zion

[AviatorX]

Team playing better with q on the bench...gee I'm shocked.

Q went out what, 2 mins tops before Jones? So I guess better without Jones as well.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Agreed he shows flashes. Could be solid just a matter of whether he sticks around.

Think he should before Kennedy. Hate to say it but I just see nothing there.

[Xville]

Really like the minutes eli is providing...he looks pretty darn good tonight..keep it up young fella.

[xu82]

Really like the minutes eli is providing...he looks pretty darn good tonight..keep it up young fella.

Agree he looks more confident and assertive.....briefly at least.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Was it Krampelj that Eli just challenged at the rim? that was really nice. Couple bad, quick shots keeping them from extending this lead.

[SemajParlor]

The Naji 3 launching kind of has to stop

[Xville]

My gawd hankins

[xu82]

Oh......Hankins. What were you thinking???

[xu82]

The Naji 3 launching kind of has to stop

Before he breaks something!

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Zone offense. Yikes.

[Xuperman]

Anyone who mentions Harden and "shooter" in the same sentence, or paragraph for that matter, needs a reality check. Everything about his shot
looks off. He was recruited as an elite shooter??? Thanks for nothing CM

[Xville]

Alright..up 6...just get the win however you have to do it.

[Strange Brew]

Officiating yikes!

[whopper]

Oh......Hankins. What were you thinking??? I was screaming look behind you from home..so obvious.. sad but they actually got nothing except the fouls(sad)

[bjf123]

Officiating yikes!

Seems like we’re getting homered at home


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[Strange Brew]

The baseline ref is approaching X ref lore. Not quite Cahil yet but give him time. He’s got that ambition baby, look in his eyes...

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Assisting on 12/16 FGs. Seems good. Keep that up.

[xu82]

Seems like we’re getting homered at home


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I never really watched the Simpsons, but that sounds about right.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Anyone who mentions Harden and "shooter" in the same sentence, or paragraph for that matter, needs a reality check. Everything about his shot
looks off. He was recruited as an elite shooter??? Thanks for nothing CM

In the 7 games where he has shot more than 2 threes, he’s connecting on 48% of them, 11/23. Who cares what it looks like?

[xu82]

Rebound, anyone???



Naji should get a rest.

[bjf123]

Yep. I think we’re waiting for the scoring drought to begin.


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And here it comes.


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[xu82]

Why would any team NOT play zone against us?

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Q and Naji FG%s are scary.

[Xville]

How this team cant figure out how to beat a zone is just one of.many things that is frustrating with this team.

[Xville]

Give eli more minutes.

[noteggs]

Has it been about 8 minutes since our last FG?

[mistabeecee41]

How this team cant figure out how to beat a zone is just one of.many things that is frustrating with this team.

we have 2 players that are capable of making a 3 pointer. There is nothing to figure out.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Eli hasn’t played in the second half for some reason. Also, turnovers.

[whopper]

naj 3 was the last field goal and it may have been 45 minutes ago. I don't see any ball security except by pelage who does nothing with it

[Strange Brew]

Hmm. X winning most stats except one. Fouls

[Xuperman]

Asking for more Eli is like asking for more cow bell.......this is brutal!!

[Xville]

we have 2 players that are capable of making a 3 pointer. There is nothing to figure out.

Hes possible to beat a zone without making threes.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Q flexes for the camera after a made layup and proceeds to get burned down the floor by the guy brining it up. Fuck that

[xu82]

Naji with another TO. Shocking....

Just don’t try TOO hard!

[mistabeecee41]

Naji with another TO. Shocking....

Just don’t try TOO hard!

My favorite part is when he complains to the refs after he wildly dribbles into 3 Creighton players everytime

[X Factor]

Goodin just broke the backboard from 12 feet.

[Xville]

Its meltdown time.

[SemajParlor]

Man.

[xu82]

The looks like a Washington Generals scrimmage....

[paulxu]

It's possible we have more TO's than points this half.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Paul needs to come up. Eli needs to go in.

[X Factor]

I've never seen a team just meltdown every game in the second half like this one.

[whopper]

Scruggs 5 turnovers..and only taken 4 shots. very strange that he has regressed.. If we win this it will be amazing

[kellernr]

Steele needs to ban those dumbass headbands. I am blaming them for the shitty season

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[Xville]

Scruggs 5 turnovers..and only taken 4 shots. very strange that he has regressed.. If we win this it will be amazing

Looked so good for 18ish games then...this.

[DART87]

Honest to God it looks like they are trying to lose these games. I have never seen a team self destruct at the end of so many games that look like egregious mistakes.

[xu82]

Well done by Tyrique. Drew that one clearly.

[kellernr]

Paul needs to come up. Eli needs to go in.I honestly hope Eli transfers so he can actually play. Seasons done and steele runs the same 7 players every game. Naji is out there limping around the court but yeah let's leave him in and risk injury.

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[xu82]

Honest to God it looks like they are trying to lose these games. I have never seen a team self destruct at the end of so many games that look like egregious mistakes.

When my Bills do this we are sure they are improving our draft status.

[whopper]

why the flex Tyrique, why any showing off at this stage

[xu82]

Well done by Welage to be sure Tyrique doesn’t do anything stupid!

[Xville]

Eli sighting in the 2nd half? Holy crap.

[DART87]

I honestly hope Eli transfers so he can actually play. Seasons done and steele runs the same 7 players every game. Naji is out there limping around the court but yeah let's leave him in and risk injury.

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Seriously Naji is limping but we are really trying to win? He looks 75% at best

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

He’s had a bad couple games. I don’t think he’s regressed.

[xu82]

Learn to win the close ones!

[Xville]

Fantastic ball movement ending in a 3 from naji... clutch

[Xville]

Eli needs to play more going forward. Hes doing a lot of the little things that wins ballgames

[DART87]

Fantastic ball movement ending in a 3 from naji... clutch

That was nice!

[AviatorX]

Eli needs to play more going forward. Hes doing a lot of the little things that wins ballgames

1000 percent agree. Should get a lot of Welage (please) and Castlins minutes.

[DART87]

unbelievable

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Please let these last 4 minutes go differently.

[Xville]

Stop turning the ball over.

[DART87]

It's the fucking headbands! Time to lose the headbands.

[Caf]

Steele needs to ban those dumbass headbands. I am blaming them for the shitty season.

I will never understand this take floating around, but I'm all in on it.

[Xville]

Yep leave their best player open from 3...genius. gawd this team is stupid. That's probably it..hope to be wrong but down five with 2 minutes left feels insurmountable with this team.

[xufan2020]

A missed bunny to tie to a wide open 3.. great

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Ban flexing.

[DART87]

Again, are they trying to lose?!

[KabeX]

Well this one's over. It's in our heads. Need to sacrifice a chicken or something.

[xu82]

Naji with a crazy twirling prayer. Great.....

[AviatorX]

Where is Scruggs? I know he’s sucked tonight but still would like him on the floor here.

[XU 23]

Where is Paul Scruggs???

[DART87]

Nice shot Naji LOL

[whopper]

A missed bunny to tie to a wide open 3.. great
not only a missed bunny but a man sized rebound by krampelj..damn

[KFX]

Seen this movie before...

[DART87]

Sickening

[Xville]

Yes naji yes!

[DART87]

Wow

[Caf]

Quinten Goodin with the weakest help defense in history to leave a man open.

[xu82]

Q with the same shoulder? Is that not healed by now?

[KFX]

Get a stop damnit.

[xufan2020]

Will these assholes call out a screen so they don’t hurt their teammates? Jesus

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Same shoulder. Not great, but he looks okay in the huddle. That’s a tough play.

[whopper]

Scruggs out and probably has to do with the turnovers..

[Lloyd Braun]

Q with the same shoulder? Is that not healed by now?

He hasn’t been 100% yet this year, yet people love roasting him. Hard to defend poor decisions however...

[DART87]

Creighton has 59 fucking points ans X is losing!? That takes an effort to lose.

[KabeX]

Why?

[whopper]

thank God Q hit it..it was close

[DART87]

Lol

[Xville]

Blood pressure....rising.....

[mistabeecee41]

Lol

How do we lose? Last second tip in? Corner 3? Dumb foul that sends them to the line?

[Xuperman]

Eli needs to play more going forward. Hes doing a lot of the little things that wins ballgames

Man, you must really put a lot of stock in "little things" because the guy is now a career 12 for 45 from distance!

[KabeX]

Does anyone not think final will be 62 - 59?

[Strange Brew]

So, quick foul call they haven't called all night so Greg's ref can give him time to set with 4 secs left.

[KabeX]

Does anyone not think final will be 62 - 59?
Well it worked that time. Still possible tho

[Xville]

Whew...ill take it. Let's win this crap in ot.

[AviatorX]

So, quick foul call they haven't called all night so Greg's ref can give him time to set with 4 secs left.

Is this serious? It was an intentional foul and a smart play by X.

[xu82]

Q barely rolled that in.....

[Strange Brew]

Did Pete move to Vegas. :)

[kellernr]

I will never understand this take floating around, but I'm all in on it.Gotta find something to blame.

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[Xville]

Man, you must really put a lot of stock in "little things" because the guy is now a career 12 for 45 from distance!

Great d tonight...something that has been missing from this team all season.

[AviatorX]

Is Scruggs gonna sit all of OT? Would love to see him Q Naji Eli around a big.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Some nights you just don’t have it. That’s Paul. I’m his biggest fan but I’m fine with him on the bench tonight. Naji has been huge. Eli playing really well.

[Lloyd Braun]

Is Scruggs gonna sit all of OT? Would love to see him Q Naji Eli around a big.

Sorry we must play two bigs at all times. There’s a thread for that too...

[AviatorX]

Sorry we must play two bigs at all times. There’s a thread for that too...

Even if they’re both wearing headbands?

[Xville]

What a baloney call on q there. Come on ref

[whopper]

castling and Harden instead of Scruggs? big gamble

[Strange Brew]

Um, anyone going to talk about the elbow pick from their center to face on that last score for CU? No wonder CBS isn't showing replays of fouls...

[xu82]

Our guys looked gassed there even coming back on offense.

[xufan2020]

Harden please ONE TIME hit a big shot

[Caf]

Eli playing really well.

Define, "really well".

[Xville]

Um, anyone going to talk about the elbow pick from their center to face on that last score for CU? No wonder CBS isn't showing replays of fouls...

Yeah I saw that too...I couldn't tell if it was accidental contact or if he lifted his arm when he saw eli coming

[DART87]

it's the fucking headbands!

[xu82]

Why not go inside attacking the Big K who doesn’t want to foul out?

[Xuperman]

Anyone who mentions Harden and "shooter" in the same sentence, or paragraph for that matter, needs a reality check. Everything about his shot
looks off. He was recruited as an elite shooter??? Thanks for nothing CM

Wow...just wow

[Strange Brew]

Still a foul (his 5th and final) even in beer league ball.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

If you don’t think he’s played well today, despite being 0-3 from three, you’re going to need to rewatch. 2 really good assists in the first half. 2 blocks. Instrumental in ball movement creating Naji three (he didn’t panick with 6 seconds left in shot clock), grabbing loose ball in corner and forcing a turnover.

[xu82]

Please NOT a Naji force!!!

[Xville]

Naji!!!!!!!

[xu82]

OK, that was fortunate......I forgive the headbands.....for now.

[AviatorX]

These reviews are bullshit. Inbound the god damn ball.

[KabeX]

Would have preferred a foul there. Keep em off the line.

[Strange Brew]

def a foul. Jays just one mooooooore chance. One arm on the wrist is a jump ball?

[KabeX]

Would have preferred a foul there. Keep em off the line.
The 3 point line of course

[Xville]

Ugh....these refs

[DART87]

How is that a jump ball???

[xufan2020]

YESSSS
Holy shit how’d they get that open

[Xville]

Yes!!!!! A win!!!!!! Wahooo

[Caf]

You gotta start somewhere! I'm very happy for our guys tonight. Never doubted them for a minute!

[xu82]

Oh Lordy! How does he get that open for the tie???

[KabeX]

So much for keeping them off the 3 point line but I'll take it. Creighton is not good.

[X Factor]

Wow, not a guy within 15 feet of him and he missed!!

Happy for Coach Steele and the team. Naji was huge tonight.

[Strange Brew]

Good. Just good. STREAK!

[DART87]

Just win baby!

Good Lord.

[Xville]

Glad I was wrong when they were down 5 with 2 minutes left. I'll eat a big bowl of crow please.

Was not pretty at all, but finally a win. Guys have to feel good tonight minus the exhaustion.

Rest of the schedule looks terrifying.

[Xuperman]

So how does that Naji-flavored crow taste?.......You know who you are.

[xu82]

I’m very happy for a win and for our guys. I hope they learn from this and build upon it. Winning is learned. This was a good fight, and we showed we have a lot to learn. It’s a start.

[KabeX]

The Run II. I'm callin it right now ;)

[xufan2020]

2324
Winning makes believers of us all
-Paul Brown

[whopper]

I think I will watch boise v Fresno now..why not I am wired. Going to Providence on Saturday and maybe lightning will strike twice. Providence up on Villanova with 10 min to go and lost by 20.. Played of game Naj, Q was pretty good too..in fact I liked everyone and liked Welage.. Thank God we won(and I have a problem when both schools are Catholic with that). All through grammar/high girls were at Catholic school so felt like a prayer may help
Hopefully Scruggs will shake the cobwebs, he actually had a decent rebound and assist until he went NUTS with 4 turnovers in a minute it seemed

[xu82]

So how does that Naji-flavored crow taste?.......You know who you are.

I’m often critical, but only because it’s clear how good he can be. He just needs to play within himself and under control......he could be great. As they say, it’s worse if the coach stops yelling at you.

[Xville]

Naji and paul could both be playing in the league one day if they play within themselves. They have nba measurements and talent, but they still have a lot of development to work thru.

[DART87]

Winning is learned.

This is the element that worries me since there are no seniors on this team. The X culture is built on long term players dominating their conference (600% in Big East) Who is going to pass that on now? Everyone left last year. Need to build a new tradition. Steele has to do it now!

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Finally, a WIN. Thank you, Lord.

[DART87]

Lol

[UCGRAD4X]

Seemed like a "who wanted it the least" kind of game. Nice to get a W any way we can get it.

Why was Harden in the whole OT?

[DART87]

Naji and paul could both be playing in the league one day if they play within themselves. They have nba measurements and talent, but they still have a lot of development to work thru.

LOL need to learn how to pass to a teammate first. Turnovers will not fly in the league!

[xu82]

This is the element that worries me since there are no seniors on this team. The X culture is built on long term players dominating their conference (600% in Big East) Who is going to pass that on now? Everyone left last year. Need to build a new tradition. Steele has to do it now!

We build. The sophomores and juniors teach the next classes of super talented guys. It’s a down year, which happens everywhere. It’s a shitstorm, and we’re still fine. We will climb back up to where we were, and beyond.

[DART87]

We build. The sophomores and juniors teach the next classes of super talented guys. It’s a down year, which happens everywhere. It’s a shitstorm, and we’re still fine. We will climb back up to where we were, and beyond.

I hope you are right! X has had upper class leaders for decades! This year is significantly different. Winning is learned! Winners don't lose games falling down, turning the ball over lazily..they find ways to win. X has always dug deep to win. It is not happening now. Culturally X wins...is that gone now?

[DART87]

I hope you are right! X has had upper class leaders for decades! This year is significantly different. Winning is learned! Winners don't lose games falling down, turning the ball over lazily..they find ways to win. X has always dug deep to win. It is not happening now. Culturally X wins...is that gone now?

After all the BS that worries me...Very nice win!

[Xville]

I hope you are right! X has had upper class leaders for decades! This year is significantly different. Winning is learned! Winners don't lose games falling down, turning the ball over lazily..they find ways to win. X has always dug deep to win. It is not happening now. Culturally X wins...is that gone now?

We just won a game...let's give it a couple of hours before the gnashing of teeth comes back to the board.

[xu82]

I hope you are right! X has had upper class leaders for decades! This year is significantly different. Winning is learned! Winners don't lose games falling down, turning the ball over lazily..they find ways to win. X has always dug deep to win. It is not happening now. Culturally X wins...is that gone now?

Our old coach ditched us (you might know him as the guy who was up 23 with under 10 left and lost last night) and left the cupboard bare. His thoughts of departure came long before we were dispatched from the NCAA tournament last year. We have some work to do, but it will get done. Travis did a great job just to line up the three grad transfers we have on such short notice.

[GenerationX]

We just won a game...let's give it a couple of hours before the gnashing of teeth comes back to the board.

Amen!

[DART87]

Agreed, These guys can win. And they just proved it tonight!

[KabeX]

Our old coach ditched us (you might know him as the guy who was up 23 with under 10 left and lost last night) and left the cupboard bare. His thoughts of departure came long before we were dispatched from the NCAA tournament last year. We have some work to do, but it will get done. Travis did a great job just to line up the three grad transfers we have on such short notice.
Listen to 82. He is wise.

[whopper]

I almost forgot that the reason we won in OT was that dumb throw into backcourt that Q stole..2nd time this year it cost Creighton and will probably deny them the ticket to the tournament. Think about that for a while and I am sure McDermott thinks about it every 10 seconds.

Great win. It is great to complain AFTER a win. I just find that Q and Naj have needlessly loose handles in the open court and seem surprised when someone comes up to challenge them. It is almost as if they are trying to lull their defender so they could go around them. I swear changing that would save us 3 turnovers a game. Just a thought.

[xu82]

Listen to 82. He is wise.

I plan to show this to my wife.

Be prepared for a rebuttal.

[DART87]

We just won a game...let's give it a couple of hours before the gnashing of teeth comes back to the board.

I was responding to another poster. I did give credit for the win after my "BS"! See 11:07 post.

I will gnash my teeth when I want. LOL!

[xu82]

I almost forgot that the reason we won in OT was that dumb throw into backcourt that Q stole..2nd time this year it cost Creighton and will probably deny them the ticket to the tournament. Think about that for a while and I am sure McDermott thinks about it every 10 seconds.

Great win. It is great to complain AFTER a win. I just find that Q and Naj have needlessly loose handles in the open court and seem surprised when someone comes up to challenge them. It is almost as if they are trying to lull their defender so they could go around them. I swear changing that would save us 3 turnovers a game. Just a thought.

I have to admit, that looked to be more stupid than any one play we have made this year. My memory is far from perfect, but that was a friggin’ gift!

[KabeX]

I plan to show this to my wife.

Be prepared for a rebuttal.

As my wife would say "you forgot to add the ass to the end of that". Sounds like we know our rightful place ;)

[DART87]

As my wife would say "you forgot to add the ass to the end of that". Sounds like we know our rightful place ;)

What!?

[xu82]

As my wife would say "you forgot to add the ass to the end of that". Sounds like we know our rightful place ;)

Well, NOW you ruined it! I’ll have to take a screen shot and leave that part out.

[whopper]

there was a stretch where we made a lot of turnovers(esp Scruggs) but they missed a lot of contested layups as we got back and deflected some balls. Probably from the 10 min to 5 min mark. I remember Scruggs and goodie blocking shots, maybe nah

[xu82]

What!?


Did you turn your hearing aids off?

We went to a nice, but old fart restaurant in Florida and at the table next to us the lady asked “Frank, did you forget your hearing aids?” His responded “WHAT???”

[DART87]

Did you turn your hearing aids off?

We went to a nice, but old fart restaurant in Florida and at the table next to us the lady asked “Frank, did you forget your hearing aids?” His responded “WHAT???”

No I heard it (or read it) LOL. Maybe you missed it. check your reading glasses.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Where is Scruggs? I know he’s sucked tonight but still would like him on the floor here.


Where is Paul Scruggs???

I guess he sat in lieu of Elias due to turnovers. Thought it was interesting Steele decides to finally take a stand against turnovers and bench someone and it was Scruggs who has been our best player all year. I guess though he felt like Paul just didnt have it tonight and he will maybe do that going forward with whoever is turning it over? I mean Elias was playing great defensively but I was extremely worried on offense. We couldnt get in down to Jones and Elias and Castlin were not threats offensively, so we basically only had Q and Naji on offense. Luckily Naji took over and made some huge plays to pull it out.

Steele made a bold move and it ended up paying off.

[whopper]

grad transfers had 19 pos, 14 rebounds, 3 assists, 4 blocks ..well done in a low scoring game

[D-West & PO-Z]

Um, anyone going to talk about the elbow pick from their center to face on that last score for CU? No wonder CBS isn't showing replays of fouls...

Yeah that was bad.

[xu82]

No I heard it (or read it) LOL. Maybe you missed it. check your reading glasses.

OK, I was just acknowledging that I know my rightful place when it comes to our marriage. I thought that was almost universal, but maybe some people have different experiences. I find it far easier to take the easier and more pleasant route. My reading glasses are fine. I didn’t know what required a “What!?”, but then I don’t care much either. Have a nice night’s sleep!

[whopper]

Scruggs had 5 turnovers but 4 were in 2 minutes..very indecisive. Ironically I think we got back and harassed a number of the Creighton layup attempts so maybe only gave up 4 points during that stretch. I think Scruggs had 8 turnovers against Detroit mercy..sometimes he may try to do too much (because he can do a lot)

[xu82]

Scruggs had 5 turnovers but 4 were in 2 minutes..very indecisive. Ironically I think we got back and harassed a number of the Creighton layup attempts so maybe only gave up 4 points during that stretch. I think Scruggs had 8 turnovers against Detroit mercy..sometimes he may try to do too much (because he can do a lot)

Creighton was indeed VERY helpful in this fortunate win. I’ll take it. I’ll take any win.

[scoscox]

credit where it's due, we played great defense tonight. holding creighton to 61 is impressive

[xu82]

credit where it's due, we played great defense tonight. holding creighton to 61 is impressive

I love our team, but Creighton was very helpful in that accomplishment.

[SemajParlor]

Some games we played better than tonight and got an L. So I'll take W. Still not over for a chance at avoiding Wed for the Big East Tournament. Nice goal .

[scoscox]

I love our team, but Creighton was very helpful in that accomplishment.

Sure, but we played better defense than we normally have by a wide margin. it was nice to see.

9 blocks, 7 steals, 15 pts off turnovers

[IM4X]

credit where it's due, we played great defense tonight. holding creighton to 61 is impressive

Agree... I thought they really hustled to stay on players tonight- especially the last 7 minutes of regulation and pretty much most of OT.

woukd be nice to see that the rest of the season.

[IM4X]

Um, anyone going to talk about the elbow pick from their center to face on that last score for CU? No wonder CBS isn't showing replays of fouls...

Glad to know I wasn’t the only one who saw that. Not cool.

[scoscox]

Definitely starting to see the move away from mack's system and towards travis' sean miller like style more and more. we're getting the hang of implementing it i think

[rosaliecea]

He came to play. Thats a game right there. Go Tyrique

[XfansinKy]

I'm not going to question coach's personnel decisions, but man they're strange sometime. Not saying it's right or wrong, just not what I'm used to when watching D1 ball.

[XUGRAD80]

I'm not going to question coach's personnel decisions, but man they're strange sometime. Not saying it's right or wrong, just not what I'm used to when watching D1 ball.

I was happy to see Hardin in there. No dig at Scruggs either. I fully expect him to start the next game and to play well. But Hardin was hustling, making plays, and having an impact defensively. Scruggs was turning the ball over way to much, and his turnovers led to some open drives to the basket. So, no problem with having Hardin in for Scruggs late in the game IMO. While Scruggs is definitely a better scorer than Hardin, he also seems to turn the ball over more than Hardin. And turnovers have been the death of this team down the stretch in many games this year. In the OT Creighten only scored TWO POINTS! That’s getting it done from a defensive standpoint.

I thought it interesting that X came out with a big lineup to start the game. It didn’t work well, but at least it showed that the coaching staff is willing to try and make the opposition adjust to X, not the other way around. Foul trouble (some questionable calls I might add) took away the ability to play that lineup the rest of the night, but in a way it made a statement.

Wonder why X didn’t through a zone in on a couple of possessions? The man to man was working, but sometimes a change like that can cause the opposition to hesitate or even turn the ball over.

Well a win is a win, and lord knows we will take anyone that we can get right now! The kids played hard and they deserve to have a few breaks go their way. Congratulations, get some rest, and on to the next one!

[paulxu]

Funniest game commentary: Pete saying over and over..."got to call a time out here Travis, got to stop the bleeding..."

And Travis waiting for the media TO.

[bleedXblue]

I have to say that I still don't understand a lot of what Steels is doing and his guys play is kind of all over the place. One game Scruggs is the star, the next he cant think straight. Steele's defense last night was really no different in terms of scheme, Creighton just did not shoot very well. Guys like Castlin pretty much do what they have been doing all year, with little improvement (he simply will not try to beat guys off the dribble even when he has a mismatch or clear lane to drive in). Naji shot the 3 better last night......which is great to see. Hopefully that continues. Harden made a few nice plays last night, but still cant hit wide open 3's. I just don't know what to think and there are many other examples of head scratching plays, scheme's etc.

I see guys playing that aren't comfortable, basic fundamental flaws that continue to happen time after time (like Q not boxing out on the last rebound of the game in OT and then allowing the Creighton defender to tie him up for the jump ball). The list is LONG. Yes, we won but that was not a well played game last night by any stretch. We may have talent or bench deficiencies, but that does not excuse poor fundamental basketball and guys not being on the same page. It simply isn't there most of the time.

[xukeith]

Only 4 times has the Jays been held to less than 62 points and all 4 were losses.
Ohio St. X, Villlanova, and Seton Hall.

[XUGRAD80]

Lack of good fundamentals has been a problem longer than just this year, and it’s not just limited to Xavier. We have seen it for some time, and it’s prevalent throughout college BB, even among many of the top teams. However, much as it pains me to say this, it doesn’t seem to be as much of a problem for the Villanova teams. They seem to do a better job of being fundamentally sound than just about anyone else. Same with Gonzaga. That should tell somebody something about what needs changing going forward.

[bleedXblue]

Lack of good fundamentals has been a problem longer than just this year, and it’s not just limited to Xavier. We have seen it for some time, and it’s prevalent throughout college BB, even among many of the top teams. However, much as it pains me to say this, it doesn’t seem to be as much of a problem for the Villanova teams. They seem to do a better job of being fundamentally sound than just about anyone else. Same with Gonzaga. That should tell somebody something about what needs changing going forward.

Seems to me that it would part of what he is trying to do foundationally with his program. An emphasis on the basics.......

I know talent helps offset some of this...........but we cant keeping coming back to that excuse.

[Caf]

If you don’t think he’s played well today, despite being 0-3 from three, you’re going to need to rewatch. 2 really good assists in the first half. 2 blocks. Instrumental in ball movement creating Naji three (he didn’t panick with 6 seconds left in shot clock), grabbing loose ball in corner and forcing a turnover.

I really don't want to be right about this, but I think you're looking through rose colored glasses if you think that was a strong performance. He looked better tonight for sure, but that's explained by being up against an atrocious defense and an offense that couldn't hit a shot. To me all this shows me is that the measure of a "good" performance for this team is not having a ton of atrocious turnovers.

[KabeX]

OK, I was just acknowledging that I know my rightful place when it comes to our marriage. I thought that was almost universal, but maybe some people have different experiences. I find it far easier to take the easier and more pleasant route. My reading glasses are fine. I didn’t know what required a “What!?”, but then I don’t care much either. Have a nice night’s sleep!

Wow didn't think this would be all that controversial. Dart - I was poking fun at 82 while completely agreeing with his take. We're both prob a little more "seasoned" than most here and thus hopefully more wise. And also wise-assesd. And apparently our wives are related ;)

[Xville]

I really don't want to be right about this, but I think you're looking through rose colored glasses if you think that was a strong performance. He looked better tonight for sure, but that's explained by being up against an atrocious defense and an offense that couldn't hit a shot. To me all this shows me is that the measure of a "good" performance for this team is not having a ton of atrocious turnovers.

I think he did a lot of things well on defense...challenging shots, deflections etc. Offensively, he is still struggling in confidence, but I do think it was significant that with the shot clock winding down, he didn’t panic and found an open Naji for three. I think the great part about Elias last night is that I think Steele gained some confidence in him to be a part of the regular rotation, and in turn Elias is going to feel more confident. Who knows what the outcome will be for sure, but this could be the game where it started to click for Elias. Only time will tell.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

I really don't want to be right about this, but I think you're looking through rose colored glasses if you think that was a strong performance. He looked better tonight for sure, but that's explained by being up against an atrocious defense and an offense that couldn't hit a shot. To me all this shows me is that the measure of a "good" performance for this team is not having a ton of atrocious turnovers.

I don’t think it’s rose colored glasses, it’s that strong is a relative term. Eli did a lot of things yesterday to help us win, things that we really haven’t seen him do before.

[Lloyd Braun]

Can anyone confirm that Elias was touted as a great long range shooter coming out of high school? Every video/report I recall was more mid-range shots and slashing drives/pull ups but I could be misremembering.

[Caf]

can anyone confirm that elias was touted as a great long range shooter coming out of high school? Every video/report i recall was more mid-range shots and slashing drives/pull ups but i could be misremembering.

espn


strengths:
Harden is a big guard with good size and length. He's a good three-point shooter and has a complimenting pull-up game with a high and tight release. That, in addition to his size and length, allows him to make tough pull-ups without much separation from his defender.

[Lloyd Braun]

espn

I did find his high school stats but it isn’t broken down by year. So FWIW he shot 31% in HS from 3.

http://www.maxpreps.com/m/career/gendersport/stats.aspx?careerid=0403d314-18a2-e611-8076-a0369f3c18ea&gendersport=boys,basketball

[X-band '01]

https://twitter.com/CBSSportsNet/status/1095888125455298560

Thank you, Mitchell Ballock.

[XfansinKy]

I was happy to see Hardin in there. No dig at Scruggs either. I fully expect him to start the next game and to play well. But Hardin was hustling, making plays, and having an impact defensively. Scruggs was turning the ball over way to much, and his turnovers led to some open drives to the basket. So, no problem with having Hardin in for Scruggs late in the game IMO. While Scruggs is definitely a better scorer than Hardin, he also seems to turn the ball over more than Hardin. And turnovers have been the death of this team down the stretch in many games this year. In the OT Creighten only scored TWO POINTS! That’s getting it done from a defensive standpoint.

I thought it interesting that X came out with a big lineup to start the game. It didn’t work well, but at least it showed that the coaching staff is willing to try and make the opposition adjust to X, not the other way around. Foul trouble (some questionable calls I might add) took away the ability to play that lineup the rest of the night, but in a way it made a statement.

Wonder why X didn’t through a zone in on a couple of possessions? The man to man was working, but sometimes a change like that can cause the opposition to hesitate or even turn the ball over.

Well a win is a win, and lord knows we will take anyone that we can get right now! The kids played hard and they deserve to have a few breaks go their way. Congratulations, get some rest, and on to the next one!
I agree. Hardin has been in with the game on the line a few times now. He's a nice kid to bring off the bench, especially considering how tall he is at guard.

[bleedXblue]

I agree. Hardin has been in with the game on the line a few times now. He's a nice kid to bring off the bench, especially considering how tall he is at guard.

there is absolute no reason to not be playing Harden now over Castlin. Castlin does a lot of nothing out on the court and you MUST see if Harden can develop and gain some confidence.

[XU 87]

there is absolute no reason to not be playing Harden now over Castlin. Castlin does a lot of nothing out on the court and you MUST see if Harden can develop and gain some confidence.

While Castlin doesn't do much, Harden doesn't do much either. He played 21 minutes yesterday and scored no points, going 0-3 from the field. He had a wide open three in the first half and bricked it.

Harden is also shooting 31% from the field this year, 29% from the three.

[bleedXblue]

While Castlin doesn't do much, Harden doesn't do much either. He played 21 minutes yesterday and scored no points, going 0-3 from the field. He had a wide open three in the first half and bricked it.

Harden is also shooting 31% from the field this year, 29% from the three.

and yet you want the minute to go to a guy who has 6-7 games left in his career instead of giving them to a guy who MIGHT be a part of the future for the next 3 years? Come on, you have to see if Harden has upside....

[94GRAD]

and yet you want the minute to go to a guy who has 6-7 games left in his career instead of giving them to a guy who MIGHT be a part of the future for the next 3 years? Come on, you have to see if Harden has upside....

Travis has seen Elias for a year and a half now, he knows what he's getting with him. There is a reason he's choosing Kyle.

[XU 87]

Travis has seen Elias for a year and a half now, he knows what he's getting with him. There is a reason he's choosing Kyle.

Beat me to it. The staff knows what Harden can and cannot do. He's a fairly athletic 6"5" skinny guard who doesn't shoot too well.

For him to be in X's future, he's going to have to get bigger and stronger, and he's going to have to shoot much better. At this point, I don't know if he has the physique to get much bigger or the ability to learn to shoot better. He's got an odd looking shot.

That said, most of us, including me, didn't think much of BJ Raymond after his first two years, and look what he did his final two years. But I think BJ was more of the exception.

P.S. BJ shot 45% from the three his sophomore year.

[xukeith]

Travis has seen Elias for a year and a half now, he knows what he's getting with him. There is a reason he's choosing Kyle.

So true.

[scoscox]

we went down/up? 34 spots in defensive efficiency from 199 to 165 after last night

[scoscox]

Q also played much better last night than he has all year. he played excellent defense all game long and stayed locked in. his 4 steals were huge (and he should've had another on a clean pickpocket of mintz). he made the right decision on offense most of the game. he still had a few head scratching moments, but took a lot of steps in the right direction. i've been a harsh critic, so i've got to give him props. we need him to keep improving.

[xu82]

Q also played much better last night than he has all year. he played excellent defense all game long and stayed locked in. his 4 steals were huge (and he should've had another on a clean pickpocket of mintz). he made the right decision on offense most of the game. he still had a few head scratching moments, but took a lot of steps in the right direction. i've been a harsh critic, so i've got to give him props. we need him to keep improving.

Can you imagine if we were on the other end of his last “steal”? Oh, LORDY! That was quite the game changing gift. We’ll never know how it WOULD have turned out, but I like being on this end of the gift for a change.

[GIMMFD]

My advanced analysis: We won a game! Yay! The guys didn't give up, came through in a big way against a team that curb stomped them not too long ago, it was great to see them end the skid, and Naji played out of his mind when Scruggs wasn't having a good game at all. Kudos to him stepping up and being clutch, would love to see more of that.

The kicker however is that we still aren't very good and need to progress a whole helluva lot.