Game Thread: Xavier vs. St. John's (February 28, 2019)

[paulxu]

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/kBAAAOSwqfNXkU44/s-l300.jpg VS. https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/sports/ncaa-march-madness-emoji/img/mascots/stJohnsRedstorm.png?c=1

Xavier University Musketeers (15-13, 7-8 BE) vs. St. John's Red Storm (20-8, 8-7 BE)
Thursday, February 28, 2019 6:30 PM ET
Carnesecca Arena (5,602) Queens, NY

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

Notes and Stats (https://goxavier.com/news/2019/2/26/mens-basketball-takes-a-four-game-winning-streak-to-new-york.aspx?path=mbball)

Television: FS1 with Brian Custer and Sarah Kustok.
Radio: 700 WLW-AM, including via iHeart Radio, TuneIn and via Sirius XM (380) and Internet (971) 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.

[UCGRAD4X]

Have to watch on delay so won't get to listen to B&J (or is it J&B ?) so I get to hear Brian Custer and Sarah Kustok.

So FS1 is taking this game seriously.

….sneaking up.....

[xukeith]

That SJU mascot sure is ugly!

[Xuperman]

Anyone know the extent of the Mustapha Heron injury? I'm thinking he will go regardless.

[muskiefan82]

Carnesecca Arena Cintas Center (5,602)?

Let's hope so!

[paulxu]

Carnesecca Arena Cintas Center (5,602)?

Let's hope so!

Hey, I was barely awake when I made the thread !

[EastCoastXman]

Heron has tendonitis in knee. They held him out of the Seton Hall game last Saturday. He is day to day. Since this is St John's last home game, I expect he will see some action. They are trying to rest him as much as possible.

[EastCoastXman]

Update from St John board - Heron did not practice yesterday but was shooting after practice while working with the trainer. Expect him to be dressed and see some action.

Based on the 'experts" on their board, keys to the game are
- Must stop X on boards and scoring of Ty and Zach. They have gotten beaten up by Watson, Govan and Olojibi from DePaul.
- Must turn over X because with their athletes it will result in points
- Both teams with short benches so fouls and fatigue will be an issue

Too bad this game is in Queens. No way I'm driving their for a 6:30 PM. Would spend an hour on the GW bridge alone ( as long as the Yankees weren't playing at the Stadium!)

[D-West & PO-Z]

We need to (and should) crush them on the boards. If we do and get a bunch of second chance points that would go a long way to winning.

[EastCoastXman]

Some early morning reading from the NY Post.

https://nypost.com/2019/02/28/st-johns-knows-what-it-must-learn-from-providence-losses/?utm_source=email_sitebuttons&utm_medium=site%20buttons&utm_campaign=site%20buttons

[profson]

I will be there to continue the Providence and Seton Hall road kill streak. Does anyone know whether there is a bar/restaurant where X fans are congregating pre-game? Also, this is the first time going by car - any parking tips?

[GoMuskies]

Tonight is one of THE games in the history of Xavier basketball. With a win, we have a great shot of (1) avoiding a Wednesday night affair in MSG in two weeks; and (2) continuing our string of .500 or better conference greatness. Very excited.

Got X +5.5

[xu 89]

Profson.....I went last year and there is not much around the campus. I couldn't even find a sports bar within walking distance. I parked about 3 blocks from the arena in a parking garage. Don't remember if it was free but if it cost it was minimal. Enjoy.

[XUMIOH12]

Zagoria tweeted that Heron is out tonight.
Rothstein tweeted that he is a GTD.

both tweeted earlier this morning about it.

[paulxu]

Get on the bus !

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/D0a6ovvWkAAyR5U.jpg

[GIMMFD]

Let's fucking go. It's time to nut up and get a big time road kill, every game is a tournament game basically from now on, let's see what these guys are made of.

[GetUp5]

Down to 4.5. Would assume Heron is out.

[GoMuskies]

Down to 4.5.

This obviously makes me a sharp.

[X-band '01]

Rumble In The Garden - St. John's/Xavier Preview (https://www.rumbleinthegarden.com/2019/2/28/18243374/st-johns-vs-xavier-how-to-watch-tv-stream-scouting-odds)

[profson]

Profson.....I went last year and there is not much around the campus. I couldn't even find a sports bar within walking distance. I parked about 3 blocks from the arena in a parking garage. Don't remember if it was free but if it cost it was minimal. Enjoy.

Thanks for the response. I called the ticket office and was told I could park in the lot next to the arena (Gate 4) for free. Sounded iffy - we will see.
A couple of years ago a Xavier group was at a bar a couple of blocks east of the arena - again we'll see.
Heron not playing would be potentially big for X. Allows more shading on Ponds.

[GoMuskies]

Prediction: after Xavier wins tonight, there's going to be a groundswell of support for Xavier as an at-large candidate. Story is too good. Struggling team with a new coach. 5 game winning streak (3 on the road in a major conference, one at home against the defending national champs). One seed from last year fighting to get back to the Dance.

One more win, and the basketball world is really going to start to take notice.

[bobbiemcgee]

I like our chances with the height advantage and that they got hammered twice by Providence. Gotta control ponds as much as we can.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

I like our chances with the height advantage and that they got hammered twice by Providence. Gotta control ponds as much as we can.

think Naj is up for the challenge on Ponds today. That said, I think we're going to zone them a lot as well with Welage getting more minutes, as long as we don't give up too much of our advantage on the boards.

[xukeith]

think Naj is up for the challenge on Ponds today. That said, I think we're going to zone them a lot as well with Welage getting more minutes, as long as we don't give up too much of our advantage on the boards.

Hope no foul trouble.

Will Naji be tired? He played 40 minutes last game and the game before....

Will Scruggs or Q play all 40? Caislin giving minutes to a Q or Scruggs?

We shall see maybe D. James tonight. He lights up the 3!

[X-band '01]

The way the schedule is laid out, they won't have a quick turnaround until the Big East Tournament. They had 3 days between tonight and the Nova game and they'll have 4 days between tonight and the trip to Butler. Then they'll have three days between Butler and Senior Day against the Johnnies.

[Lloyd Braun]

Heron inactive.

[kellernr]

Up 9 thanks to a 9-0 run. Heron is already inactive and I think Ponds hurt his wrist going for a loose ball. Everytime the camera pans to Ponds he is looking at his hand/wrist.

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[X-band '01]

Xavier had 2 turnovers on their first two possessions, but have treated the ball like gold since then. St. John's - not so much.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Paul with 2 is not ideal. Can’t get out of this zone with welage playing a lot either.

[X-band '01]

Spoke too soon. Getting careless again and, as I type this, Scruggs now picks up his 2nd foul. X still up by 5 at the under-8.

[noteggs]

Naji doing a nice job scoring and defending Ponds

[RoseyMuskie]

Team is just balling. Can’t explain it besides saying there’s an entirely different feel to this team since Providence.

[xu82]

Naji doing a nice job scoring and defending Ponds

I’m quite satisfied! With pretty much everything so far!

[KabeX]

Currently 7.3 miles away from Carnasecca Arena (LGA Sky Club). I think my presence is doing ... absolutely nothing but I'm sure happy with our play thus far

[KabeX]

Castlin should always have the red light to shoot IMO

[X-band '01]

Up 9 thanks to a 9-0 run. Heron is already inactive and I think Ponds hurt his wrist going for a loose ball. Everytime the camera pans to Ponds he is looking at his hand/wrist.

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Ponds has only had 2 points on 1-of-4 shooting so far. He was still grimacing at the last timeout.

[kellernr]

Castlin should always have the red light to shoot IMOI'd rather see Jones shoot threes instead of Castlin

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[X-band '01]

He does have 5 assists, though. Not completely neutralized.

[xu82]

Currently 7.3 miles away from Carnasecca Arena (LGA Sky Club). I think my presence is doing ... absolutely nothing but I'm sure happy with our play thus far

We can’t know that for sure. You sit your ass there and keep doing what you're doing! There’s always another flight! Free drinks and a nice lead? Why go anywhere? Keep that mojo going!

[KabeX]

Good TO. Need to cool Ponds off ;). 2 things very surprising - Ponds with 2 points and freakin Wolford is RANKED (at least I think I heard that right).

[X-band '01]

X up 38-30 at the half. Will definitely take that considering much better Xavier teams have struggled like hell to win in Queens.

[xufan2020]

Good defense by Q to force a tough shot at the end

[xu82]

He does have 5 assists, though. Not completely neutralized.


Are you suggesting.......a sniper? I think that may be overkill.




Until the last two minutes.....let's see how it goes.

[AviatorX]

Regardless of results, this team looks completely different as of late. Playing some solid ball.

[KabeX]

X up 38-30 at the half. Will definitely take that considering much better Xavier teams have struggled like hell to win in Queens.
Yep. But we all know how good Mullin is at half time adjustments

[X-band '01]

Steve Lappas did talk about Xavier playing up-tempo to force Villanova out of their comfort zone back on Sunday. The Johnnies have loads of fouls to give - you'd think they'd be looking for more ways to push the tempo to their liking in the 2nd half.

[stammina0721]

Playing out how I thought. St. John's just doesn't have the size. Im more worried about Butler than St. John's

[Xville]

Really solid first half especially against ponds...one more half to go..let's get that roadkill.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Just keep the T.O.s down boys. There were very few fouls on either side. Doing good so far.

[X-band '01]

Playing out how I thought. St. John's just doesn't have the size. Im more worried about Butler than St. John's

Not nearly out of the woods yet - if Xavier gets careless in the 2nd half, the Johnnies can absolutely come back and make Xavier pay.

Scruggs at least got some rest due to foul trouble - hope he's able to play most of the 2nd half.

[KabeX]

Y, Ponds cold and we're only up 8. Interesting to see how we withstand and respond to the inevitable runs in 2nd half. I like what I see so far, really want to finish this one.

[xu82]

Two bigs at once might be OK. :-)

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Two turnovers leads to four points. Two really not good passes

[X-band '01]

Xavier needed the timeout here - back-to-back turnovers and the Johnnies suddenly within 6 points.

[xu82]

Good time to regroup.

[noteggs]

Top of the key Jones to Hankins pass not ideal. Twice so far

[KabeX]

Still playing decent D w/o fouling. Paul w. 2 and no one else w. more than 1. Get the 4th on Simon and inside opens even more.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Danger zone here. Don’t give up the lead

[xu82]

Trey by Naji was a gift, looked like we were trying to give the ball away again.

[X-band '01]

Big answer by Naji after the 3 from Ponds.

[KabeX]

Naji. Wow.

[X-band '01]

Trey by Naji was a gift, looked like we were trying to give the ball away again.

Dare I saw a 5-pt swing?

[Xville]

Nice jones!!!! Looks like we withstood the first run!

[X-band '01]

Xavier has only missed one shot from the field. Turnovers are keeping the Johnnies in this.

[Lloyd Braun]

Steele has some unbelievable plays that when executed are unstoppable.

[KabeX]

2 PFs and we're shooting. Keep pounding it boys.

[KabeX]

wow didn't see a flagrant there but we'll take it

[xu82]

Mullins isn’t Coach K....I hope he just pisses the refs off!

[Xville]

Bad call on the flagrant there but I'll take it.

[xu82]

I would press us too.

[kellernr]

Why is naji such a good on the ball defender but horrible when it comes to closing out on the 3pt shot?

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[Xville]

Just awful transition d there...no way should one pass lead to a wide open 3.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

This should be a 10 point game. Gotta get Paul back in and get back to better D

[xu82]

Welage looks like he’s doing it wrong, but I love when it goes in!

[kellernr]

This should be a 10 point game. Gotta get Paul back in and get back to better DAgree. Castlin and Welage on the floor together is a recipie for disaster

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[Xville]

Whatever happened to scruggs? That guy has just completely disappeared for 5 plus games

[xu82]

Whatever happened to scruggs? That guy has just completely disappeared for 5 plus games

I think we just take turns.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Man Naji has really turned it on of late.

[Xville]

9 minutes in and st John's hasnt closed the gap any...keep it going!

[KabeX]

Brian trying to do his best Gus Johnson. Nice try but there's only one Gus!

[xavierj]

Whatever happened to scruggs? That guy has just completely disappeared for 5 plus games

He was good against Nova. Not there tonight so far.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

18 points off turnovers for SJU. Clean that up for the last 9 minutes and take care of business.

[scoscox]

Stop the ball

[Xville]

Ugh.

[KabeX]

And here comes that run. Calm down. Answer.

[Xville]

Naji!!!!! Withstood another run

[xu82]

GOOD Naji!

[scoscox]

Get your head in the game Paul!!!

[xu82]

And here comes that run. Calm down. Answer.

I’’’mm Claaaam

[X-band '01]

Double T involving Tyrique Jones. Now puts him up to 2 fouls.

[KabeX]

Good Q

[Xville]

Win two more 4 minute battles and get on the plane...

[xu82]

Win two more 4 minute battles and get on the plane...

That sounds so easy, calm and soothing!

Thanks! I just may not wet myself.

[noteggs]

So this what the team can look like hitting a few more threes

[KabeX]

Win two more 4 minute battles and get on the plane...
Which I will do (delayed fortunately). Hopefully it's some VBs on the way home!

[xu82]

Too soon to stop playing offense!!!

[Xville]

Just an awful call on st John's but again I'll take it. Whistle has been kind to us tonight.

[xu82]

Pachinko? Is that our offense now? Bounce the ball off of things and hope for the best? Double digit lead....HOLD IT!

[Blue Blooded-05]

Good acting job there by Castlin. Looks like he lost the handle on his own.

[xu82]

Just an awful call on st John's but again I'll take it. Whistle has been kind to us tonight.

On the road, quite odd....

[Blue Blooded-05]

Offensive rebounds have been HUGE tonight!

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Lol at Chris Mullin

[X-band '01]

Chris Mullin. The gift that keeps on giving.

And add a T to Ponds as well.

[kellernr]

Fucking pathetic freel throw shooting

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[xu82]

I hope the new guys next year can shoot FT’s.

[Xville]

Alright...let's win one more 4 minute battle and get that roadkill!!!!

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Don’t get Naji over Paul at the FT line. Difference if I think like 8%

[Xville]

Another terrible call on st John's there. These refs are absolutely awful

[KabeX]

Boys we're lookin good here. I think we've gotten 2 or 3 questionable calls but of course we'll take it. Now ... FINISH.

[xavierj]

Another terrible call on st John's there. These refs are absolutely awful

The block was good but you can’t hit him with the body. That’s why they called it.

[xu82]

For any SJ fan who comes to check our board, YES, you got screwed by the whistle quite a bit.

I do think it generally evens out over a season, but X has been fortunate tonight.

[kellernr]

Make those 7 fts and X is up 21. None these guys look right at the line.

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[Xville]

I hope the new guys next year can shoot FT’s.

I dunno about the other guys but kyky is automatic

[Lloyd Braun]

Don’t get Naji over Paul at the FT line. Difference if I think like 8%

Without a great FT shooter out there gotta go with the hot hand.

[Xville]

The block was good but you can’t hit him with the body. That’s why they called it.

I still think that was pretty questionable but I know what you are saying.

[Lloyd Braun]

Mullin is trying hard to get tossed but these refs are so terrible they’ll keep him around...

[xu82]

I dunno about the other guys but kyky is automatic

Kyky gets to finish all these games!

[KabeX]

Now that one I can see as a flagrant

[Xville]

This is going to be the longest 251 ever

[kellernr]

Why do we think we can beat the press passing to a guy that is standing still. Guys need to be running and cutting trying to get free.

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[xu82]

Hard to believe this SJ team came in with 5 more wins than the X team I’m watching right now. I love getting better!

[xavierj]

Xavier now 70% from the line. St. John’s is very undisciplined.

[X-band '01]

Makeup for the other foul that was called a flagrant.

Meanwhile, the Johnnies are finally trying to press Xavier defensively.

[Strange Brew]

Walk but no way we get that call.

[HenryMuto]

This game was over but X can't break the press.

[kellernr]

Naji may be the guy that is doing all of our scoring but is the probably the laziest dribbler and passer I've ever seen.

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[X-band '01]

And now the nightly end-of-game tightrope walk begins.

[Xville]

Have to hit free throws to close this out.

[HenryMuto]

Have to hit free throws to close this out.

Have to get the ball over half court.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Without a great FT shooter out there gotta go with the hot hand.

Paul shoots something like 78%

[HenryMuto]

3 turnovers in the last minute

[kellernr]

We are going to end this game with 20+ turnovers and a win

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[Blue Blooded-05]

It seems like Ponds has 15 fouls this half.

And our press break is ulcer inducing

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Chris Mack school of press break. Jesus. Pass the Ball before the double comes.

[HenryMuto]

4 turnovers...................JFC can't even get a shot off and lead is cut from 16 to 7 just like that because you can't stop turning the ball over.

I mean WTF stop passing it into corners.

[Strange Brew]

In fairness. Paul was hacked.

[kellernr]

This isnt soccer. You dont take the ball to the corner to kill the clock.

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[KabeX]

We are going to end this game with 20+ turnovers and a win

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And the latter is the most important stat. Freakin Tos tho.

[xu82]

Naji may be the guy that is doing all of our scoring but is the probably the laziest dribbler and passer I've ever seen.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

Or, maybe another way to put it is he’s extremely talented and has some things he really needs to work on so he can be an all-time great. A little different perspective. I agree he needs discipline with the ball.

[HenryMuto]

JFC lead down to 7 WTF

[Xville]

Come on boys close this out

[Lloyd Braun]

Paul shoots something like 78%

If true then you are correct he should have been shooting. Thought he was closer to 75%

[xavierj]

Have to figure out how to close games out and beat pressure. Crap.

[KabeX]

Well it aint over yet. Take care of the freakin ball. Make FTs. Get the hell out of Queens.

[HenryMuto]

This is not over though it felt like it was over.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

These turnovers are driving me nuts!

[Xville]

Make free throws please

[HenryMuto]

Ok now it's over.

What a great win.

[Xville]

Think we got a winner!!!!! What a battle won...great job boys. Qhat a fun couple of weeks. Incredible coaching and incredible sticktoitiveness

[KabeX]

Gonna be a fun (cocktail filled) flight home. For the record - I'm talkin about me.

[X Factor]

This is unbelievable! 5 in a row!!!

[xu82]

Take the win and learn how this feels. Keep it up! Naji with 31 is crazy, but he always had the talent, he just needed to slow things down!

[KabeX]

Also for the record - I picked the opposition tonite and that will continue the rest of the season. No, I am not superstitious at all. Really. No.

[Xville]

Man...this just feels special right now...this team might seriously make a run deuce.

[letskeepitreal]

Wow, a little ugly with all the turnovers but St Johns will force those. Great win. Let’s do it the next 2 games.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Naji with 31. Wow.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Going to have a big changing room celebration? 5 in a roll Baby!

[Xuperman]

I don't know where to start.....I am going off on a bunch of crazy negative posters here.... but for now it's good

[Grizzx12]

That was awesome and I think the toughest win this year. Lots of chances to collapse in the 2nd half and they just didnt

[KabeX]

Now ... LET'S GET SIX!

[XUGRAD80]

Keep it rollin’!

[xu82]

Gonna be a fun (cocktail filled) flight home. For the record - I'm talkin about me.

For the record.....I’m pleased for you even if you didn’t make a single free throw!

[GIMMFD]

Naji has turned into a cold-blooded killer. He's been out of this world as of late. I'm convinced we're never going to lose again. IRRATIONAL HOPE LETS GO!!!

[bjf123]

Also for the record - I picked the opposition tonite and that will continue the rest of the season. No, I am not superstitious at all. Really. No.

You’re not alone!


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[bobbiemcgee]

Tough, Physical INTENSE win in front of sold out crowd _ AWESOME!

[KabeX]

For the record.....I’m pleased for you even if you didn’t make a single free throw!
For the record (cue my inner Al Bundy voice) - I was soooo money ... NOT

[XUGRAD80]

Also for the record - I picked the opposition tonite and that will continue the rest of the season. No, I am not superstitious at all. Really. No.


It’s bad luck to be superstitious.

I write this as I sit in my special spot, listening to the radio while watching the TV, and wearing my lucky shirt.....sad isn’t it?

[GIMMFD]

It’s bad luck to be superstitious.

I write this as I sit in my special spot, listening to the radio while watching the TV, and wearing my lucky shirt.....sad isn’t it?

Haven't made a score prediction since we started winning, plan on continuing not making a score prediction.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

The rest of the BE teams better look out. Here comes the X train rolling to the finish line. What a night for Naji. This is the Naji we were expecting to see before the season started.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Lets go!

Who else is glad as hell we didnt Chris Mack that game!?

Way to hold on X!

[Blue Blooded-05]

Riddle me this, Batman...

Through 24 games, we averaged 12.67 turnovers per game and were 11-13

Over the past 5 games we’ve averaged 15.2 turnovers per game and are 5-0

[Xville]

Riddle me this, Batman...

Through 24 games, we averaged 12.67 turnovers per game and were 11-13

Over the past 5 games we’ve averaged 15.2 turnovers per game and are 5-0

Difference is defense...Steele has said as much.

[XUGRAD80]

Riddle me this, Batman...

Through 24 games, we averaged 12.67 turnovers per game and were 11-13

Over the past 5 games we’ve averaged 15.2 turnovers per game and are 5-0

Depends on where and when the turnovers happen. How many of those turnovers have led to fast break points? In addition, how many turnovers or defensive stops has Xavier been forcing during these last 5 games compared to the first 24?

[noteggs]

Pinch me...

[xukeith]

Without a great FT shooter out there gotta go with the hot hand.

I want Kyle taking all free throws from here on out. Can't shoot but his free throws are smooth butter.

[paulxu]

I couldn't watch the game tonight, and only caught the last 2 minutes on the radio coming home.

Byron cannot understand why we don't know how to break a press, and keep passing it into a corner where we are double teamed.

Anyway...GREAT WIN!

[Lloyd Braun]

I want Kyle taking all free throws from here on out. Can't shoot but his free throws are smooth butter.

Hard to argue that... plus it validates giving him extended minutes

[noteggs]

I couldn't watch the game tonight, and only caught the last 2 minutes on the radio coming home.

Byron cannot understand why we don't know how to break a press, and keep passing it into a corner where we are double teamed.

Anyway...GREAT WIN!

Great point. During five game winning streak we’ve been pressed. Not a bad thing because means we have the lead. Think we should continue to work on this in practice.

[scoscox]

I couldn't watch the game tonight, and only caught the last 2 minutes on the radio coming home.

Byron cannot understand why we don't know how to break a press, and keep passing it into a corner where we are double teamed.

Anyway...GREAT WIN!

We just don't have great ball handlers/anyone that's sure with the ball

[KabeX]

I couldn't watch the game tonight, and only caught the last 2 minutes on the radio coming home.

Byron cannot understand why we don't know how to break a press, and keep passing it into a corner where we are double teamed.

Anyway...GREAT WIN!

B is a smart man. I don't either. I still think he would be a great coach.

[Xuperman]

I think if we are not talking about Naj, we should shut this board down......

[KabeX]

I think if we are not talking about Naj, we should shut this board down......

Naji channeling his inner Trevon. Nothing could be better ... except maybe Paul channeling his inner JP. Which, BTW, I fully expect.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Not sure that makes B a smart man, I think it should be common sense that to break a press you put your big guy in the middle and don’t get trapped in the corner or sideline. Yet X did it every time. I press X all game long if your team has the energy.

[xu82]

Pinch me...

No thank you???

[Xuperman]

I really love the guy because he is a straight up BALLER.....He is fantastic as a student athlete and a post game rep for X. CLASS all the way.

[whopper]

23 pos, 13 rebounds and zero on ball turnovers by the grad transfers in the biggest road game of the year. Not bad guys and I pray you will see the tournament action you most richly deserve. Castling putback waa huge Lets us have a great senior night. Great play by the core 4 who may simply be healthy now. Scruggs is a great presence even if his numbers are not good. If we get it to Tyrique (especially ) on the press as the safety valve I think we can solve the end of game problems which to me are the only residual problem remaining from last month

[kellernr]

Naji channeling his inner Trevon. Nothing could be better ... except maybe Paul channeling his inner JP. Which, BTW, I fully expect.Hes saving it for the Big East Tourney

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[KabeX]

Hes saving it for the Big East Tourney

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Gotta say I'm looking a lot more forward to it now. Especially since it looks like we don't have to win 4.

[GIMMFD]

Naji channeling his inner Trevon. Nothing could be better ... except maybe Paul channeling his inner JP. Which, BTW, I fully expect.

Trevon is definitely someone I'd want to channel, though instead of JP, I'd love for Scruggs to channel Tu instead, could you imagine having a team with two stone cold killers like Trevon and Tu.. we've stepped it up defensively, and we're seeing the rewards for it, time to start rooting hard for bubble teams to lose, and see what X can do in the next couple weeks.

[kellernr]

Trevon is definitely someone I'd want to channel, though instead of JP, I'd love for Scruggs to channel Tu instead, could you imagine having a team with two stone cold killers like Trevon and Tu.. we've stepped it up defensively, and we're seeing the rewards for it, time to start rooting hard for bubble teams to lose, and see what X can do in the next couple weeks.We have no one on the roster that can channel Tu. He has mad ball skills and a quick shot. Scruggs, Goodin and Naji are all good ball players but they all struggle dribbling into traffic. Naji is the go to guy but I only want him driving when we clear out a side for him. He dribbles so far in front of himself because of his long arms and it's easy for guys to strip the ball.

I will say I was extremely hard on Naji at the beginning of the year but he has turned into what we expected with the preseason hype. Just need to get Scruggs back to normal and they should dominate teams

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[profson]

I will be there to continue the Providence and Seton Hall road kill streak.

I give myself mad props for traveling to all three road kills but this victory was sealed pregame when Tu’s mom saw my X gear and introduced herself. Nice lady BTW.

[GIMMFD]

We have no one on the roster that can channel Tu. He has mad ball skills and a quick shot. Scruggs, Goodin and Naji are all good ball players but they all struggle dribbling into traffic. Naji is the go to guy but I only want him driving when we clear out a side for him. He dribbles so far in front of himself because of his long arms and it's easy for guys to strip the ball.

I will say I was extremely hard on Naji at the beginning of the year but he has turned into what we expected with the preseason hype. Just need to get Scruggs back to normal and they should dominate teams

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I meant more so just having that last killer instinct, nobody on this team has Tu's skillset, and that's fine. But when the game was on the line, or we needed a bucket for momentum/to stop other team's momentum, there was nobody else I rather have taking a shot than Tu. Naji has grown a lot towards the end of the season, he's taken over and become the alpha of this team, and that's a good thing. He's definitely the most talented player on the roster, and when he gets going, he's damn tough to beat, also really happy Q has gotten it together as of late, he looks way more comfortable out there, and even though he's not filling up the stat sheet, he's playing some damn good basketball. You're right though, if we can get the Scruggs from that little run of magic he had there, this team becomes down right scary with their new attitude towards defense.

[mid major]

Stop it. Any of you guys out there know how tough it is to follow this game w/o internet in Aruba? Well I do. It sucks big time. I just now found out we won. ����

[XUGRAD80]

Stop it. Any of you guys out there know how tough it is to follow this game w/o internet in Aruba? Well I do. It sucks big time. I just now found out we won. ����

Aruba? You’re getting absolutely no sympathy from me Bub! Another 1-3 inches expected this weekend and there’s no X game to watch. You’re killing me Smalls, you’re killing me. :drinks:

[Xavier]

Keep seeing "this is the Naji we expected". If thats the case you're expectations were way too high. He has outperformed any realistic expectation for a Sophomore. His play during this run (especially if they finish things out and actually make the tournament) can be put up against some of the best runs in Xavier history.

[XfansinKy]

Not sure that makes B a smart man, I think it should be common sense that to break a press you put your big guy in the middle and don’t get trapped in the corner or sideline. Yet X did it every time. I press X all game long if your team has the energy.
I get what you're saying. We were taught some of this stuff in grade school. Cut to the ball, instead of standing. Ball handler has to use ball fakes if he picks up his dribble, and if he does, his ball handling teammates have to cut towards him. Stay out of the four corners. I don't understand why our guys forget fundamentals. Next year we will be able to let KyKy dribble and cut through the press.

[UCGRAD4X]

Keep seeing "this is the Naji we expected". If thats the case you're expectations were way too high. He has outperformed any realistic expectation for a Sophomore. His play during this run (especially if they finish things out and actually make the tournament) can be put up against some of the best runs in Xavier history.

I didn't make the comment but I do have to agree somewhat in the sense that, with all the hype and NBA scouts - for a while Naji was good but not great.

This is how I come to it.

With the turnovers, ill-advised drives and some just WTF play - some of which he still does by the way - one might ask, "So, which part of his game is so far and away outstanding to make up for all the parts that are not-so-great?"

Today was something else, though.

I remember the stretch that it seemed like all we had was Scruggs and nobody else. For a while Hankins was on a roll and then Jones for a few games. But it is interesting that the streak seams to coincide with Naji emergence.

….and he's only a sophomore....

[oh, and Tyrique lost 35 lbs....did you know that?]

[oh, and did you hear, Stainbrook was a Uber driver?]

[Xuperman]

Wow, we took them city boys to the wood shed! A real statistical beat down......absolutely destroyed them on the glass and at the line. 25 made FTs to their FOUR and 38 to 22 on the boards. T and Z completely dominated the paint and their big, Keita, was invisible. Held Mr. Everything to only 13 at a miserable 30%. Mad props to Welly for his timely 3 bombs.....they were big time Mo killers for the Johnnies.

THIS is Xavier basketball. THIS is what we do.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

It’s so nice to win. We can watch the game again in total relaxation and our hearts won’t skip a beat. It is really good for your health.

[SM#24]

https://twitter.com/NajMarshall/status/1086490141806526464
Naji the Prophet ?
Granted it took 5 more games to come true.
I might get a t-shirt made up with that saying.

[xuwin]

Not sure that makes B a smart man, I think it should be common sense that to break a press you put your big guy in the middle and don’t get trapped in the corner or sideline. Yet X did it every time. I press X all game long if your team has the energy.

Xavier seems to do a pretty good job of breaking the press but then seems to allow themselves to get trapped in the half court with no outlets. If they can't solve that problem they would be better off to just attack the basket when they break the full court press. Teams are leaving Paul open in the corner and Xavier passes it to him every time and he gets trapped. I'm not sure if it's his problem or that nobody is coming to him as an outlet.

[scoscox]

NET Ranking up to 71. Kenpom up to 70. Keep on pushing

[GoMuskies]

NET Ranking up to 71. Kenpom up to 70. Keep on pushing

Surprised to see no move in Sagarin. Still #59. But our "Recent" rating is up to #25. This year my completely unbiased opinion is that the Selection Committee should weigh the Sagarin Recent rating very heavily in its at-large selection process.

[Masterofreality]

Gawd what a game!!!

Right along the lines of the previous 4. Quickly switching defenses that kept Ponds off balance, solid sub patterns, further development, and I noticed some real assistant coach involvement from the sidelines. This train is rolling!!

And how embarrassing is Mullin? Dude was out of control from the first media time out. This with one of the best Officials doing the game last night- Pat Driscoll. Finally Driscoll had enough of Mullin's guff and T'ed him up. Mullin's team plays like he coaches- undisciplined. Those trash headlocks that the Johnnies were putting on X were BS.

One note. They should bring Byron to practice to instruct on Press Break. He was conducting a clinic on the radio last night.

[UCGRAD4X]

This may be the best in-season turn-around in Xavier history...or soon will be.

Bigger than the 'aftermath' even...

[UCGRAD4X]

Today was something else, though.

I remember the stretch that it seemed like all we had was Scruggs and nobody else. For a while Hankins was on a roll and then Jones for a few games. But it is interesting that the streak seams to coincide with Naji emergence.

….and he's only a sophomore....

[oh, and Tyrique lost 35 lbs....did you know that?]

[oh, and did you hear, Stainbrook was a Uber driver?]


oh yeah..

Mor has a hooker in his trunk,

Nuts posts porn in the Lounge

_LH is a pariah

ands Whopper lives in Conn

[Masterofreality]

oh yeah..

Mor has a hooker in his trunk,

Nuts posts porn in the Lounge

_LH is a pariah

ands Whopper lives in Conn

Hey, She's a proud "Sex Worker" who I inherited from DC Muskie!!

[UCGRAD4X]

Hey, She's a proud "Sex Worker" who I inherited from DC Muskie!!

So did DC write he a good recommendation reflected on her resume. Because I'm sure it's a competitive market.

You can't just put any Sex Worker in your trunk. What would your mother think.

[jhelmes37]

This may be the best in-season turn-around in Xavier history...or soon will be.

Bigger than the 'aftermath' even...

If by some streak of genius, they make the tournament and win a game or two, I would say yes.

But if not, the 2017 team still wins. That team was dead in the water, barely scraped into the tournament, and went to the E8.

Wait, so did the 2004 team........ but if this team can do that (tall task), then easily this is the most impressive.

[bobbiemcgee]

NOOOOOOOOOOOObody wants to play this team in NYC!

[noteggs]

NOOOOOOOOOOOObody wants to play this team in NYC!

Hats off Bobbie! Any year when another team comes into a tournament this hot (or other’s) I tend to say “no thanks”.

[GIMMFD]

If by some streak of genius, they make the tournament and win a game or two, I would say yes.

But if not, the 2017 team still wins. That team was dead in the water, barely scraped into the tournament, and went to the E8.

Wait, so did the 2004 team........ but if this team can do that (tall task), then easily this is the most impressive.

If they can win the next two, and make it to the finals/win the BET, and then win two games in the NCAA Tournament then yeah, I would 100% say this was the most impressive turnaround I've ever seen. Agreed with what you're saying though, I'd go with 2004, then 2017, with the verdict still out on this season.


NOOOOOOOOOOOObody wants to play this team in NYC!

Also agree, a collective "gulp" has to be heard from Big East foes, this team is firing on all cylinders. They have confidence, they have some swagger back, and those two play in a lot throughout the course of a game. They look hungry, and I'd be scared if I were any other Big East team as well. Haven't seen this fire all season, but sure as hell am glad it decided to show up.

[scoscox]

http://https://twitter.com/BannersParkway/status/1101639639050448896 (https://twitter.com/BannersParkway/status/1101639639050448896)

Very encouraging

[Xer4ever]

Also agree, a collective "gulp" has to be heard from Big East foes, this team is firing on all cylinders. They have confidence, they have some swagger back, and those two play in a lot throughout the course of a game. They look hungry, and I'd be scared if I were any other Big East team as well. Haven't seen this fire all season, but sure as hell am glad it decided to show up.


Like everyone else, this 5 game streak has me thinking of what might still be possible. But I disagree that we are hitting on all cylinders. Two major areas still need major improvement if we are to make the Tournament and hope to advance. Turnovers need to be under 12, and free throws need to be 75% or higher. If we can accomplish this, we will be firing on all cylinders and then anything is possible. Until then ice is very thin.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Also agree, a collective "gulp" has to be heard from Big East foes, this team is firing on all cylinders. They have confidence, they have some swagger back, and those two play in a lot throughout the course of a game. They look hungry, and I'd be scared if I were any other Big East team as well. Haven't seen this fire all season, but sure as hell am glad it decided to show up.


Like everyone else, this 5 game streak has me thinking of what might still be possible. But I disagree that we are hitting on all cylinders. Two major areas still need major improvement if we are to make the Tournament and hope to advance. Turnovers need to be under 12, and free throws need to be 75% or higher. If we can accomplish this, we will be firing on all cylinders and then anything is possible. Until then ice is very thin.

75% FT% would put X in as a top 35 to top 30 FT shooting team in the country. at 69% to this point that probably isnt realistic. But getting into the low 70's the rest of they way should be a goal. And hitting them at a better clip when it counts at the end.

Definitely need to limit the turnovers too.

[GIMMFD]

75% FT% would put X in as a top 35 to top 30 FT shooting team in the country. at 69% to this point that probably isnt realistic. But getting into the low 70's the rest of they way should be a goal. And hitting them at a better clip when it counts at the end.

Definitely need to limit the turnovers too.

You're right firing on all cylinders was a bit premature, but they have looked like night and day in comparison. Another thing I alluded to in another post was Scruggs still has potential to be as good as he was a few weeks back. Low 70s would be great, just enough to close out games. Definitely need to work a bit on the press break, if you have a score, I'd say just go for it instead of killing clock and let the defense try to take care of the rest.