BE Tournament Game Thread: Xavier vs. Villanova (March 15, 2019)

[paulxu]

https://assets.primesport.com/prod/images/Big%20East%20Tournament%20Logo.png

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/kBAAAOSwqfNXkU44/s-l300.jpg VS. https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ1V8lVXdNbHjgw83zyjVdYjeQCs7aVE BqPVpodEHVaz4i_j2H1Hg

No. 4 Seed Xavier University Musketeers (18-14)
No. 1 Seed Villanova University Wildcats (23-9)
Friday, March 15, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. ET
BIG EAST TOURNAMENT SEMIFINALS
Madison Square Garden (19,786) in New York

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

Notes and Stats (https://goxavier.com/news/2019/3/15/mens-basketball-no-4-seed-xavier-takes-on-no-1-seed-villanova-in-big-east-semifinals.aspx?path=mbball)

Television: FS1 with play-by-play from Gus Johnson and analysis from Jim Jackson. Lisa Byington is the reporter.
Radio: 55KRC-AM, including via iHeart Radio and TuneIn, with play-by-play from XU Hall of Famer and former XU standout Joe Sunderman ('79). Analysis will be provided by Xavier Hall of Famer and XU all-time leading scorer Byron Larkin ('88).SiriusXM Radio: Sirius 133/XM 201 (also on SiriusXM app., channel 964.

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

[American X]

I am going all-in for this game. I am wearing my hair like Hankins AND blackface.

[GoMuskies]

X +6.5

[drudy23]

Don't have to win two in a row, we just have to win one. Just win baby.

[Xville]

Since a Rocky video helped with the win yesterday, I thought I'd keep it going with what I think is one of the best inspirational speeches in cinema...Our beloved team took a lot of hits this year, but they got up on the canvas and thrived.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk82j1jQw_8 fast forward to about the 1 minute mark

[fellahmuskie]

X +6.5

Wow. If I bet, I'd have a hard time staying away from that.

[xu koop scoop]

Got a box of rubber bands with me for tonites titanic tilt vs Villanova.

[XMuskieFTW]

Wow. If I bet, I'd have a hard time staying away from that.

Well now it's X +8.5. That's wild.

[GoMuskies]

Well now it's X +8.5. That's wild.

Hmm. Not loving that. Last night I noted late movement on the Marquette and WV games. WV went from +15.5 to +12.5. Marquette went from +1 to -3. We all know how those two turned out...

[SemajParlor]

I am going all-in for this game. I am wearing my hair like Hankins AND blackface.

Wtf?

[fellahmuskie]

Hmm. Not loving that. Last night I noted late movement on the Marquette and WV games. WV went from +15.5 to +12.5. Marquette went from +1 to -3. We all know how those two turned out...

Did the line move on the Creighton game?

[GIMMFD]

I'm just hoping Nova shoots pretty cold, and we can get off to a good start, limit turnovers and keep this special run going man. SCREW VEGAS.

[GoMuskies]

Did the line move on the Creighton game?

Not that I'm aware, but I got my wager in well ahead of time. May have moved from 2.5 to 3.

[xu82]

My wife’s on her way back from NYC. Turns out her boss used to be on the board at Villanova and was making a point to get out early for the Nova/X game tonight. She said had she know I was an X guy she would have had extra tickets for us. I warned my wife that was a horrific idea! I mean, I wouldn’t go in with the idea of being a horse’s ass, but at some point our income just might be in jeopardy. “Remember this next year dear, if it comes up, I’m ‘in another state’ and will sneak in more anonymously”.

[bobbiemcgee]

Well now it's X +8.5. That's wild.

Historically, they have kicked our ass by a lot, so not surprised. No 9 minute droughts please.

[Blue Blooded-05]

We historically shoot like sh!t in our losses to V. In our last 9 games vs them, we have averaged 20 threes per game and made ~25% in our 7 losses and ~40% in our 2 wins. That’s a 9 point differential.

Gotta make shots tonight

[GIMMFD]

We historically shoot like sh!t in our losses to V. In our last 9 games vs them, we have averaged 20 threes per game and made ~25% in our 7 losses and ~40% in our 2 wins. That’s a 9 point differential.

Gotta make shots tonight

Playing awesome defense on Boothe and Pascall again would help too, I think we can win if we have the same defensive intensity we had at Cintas. I'm just hoping that Nova doesn't hit from everywhere on the court like they seem to do against us. Tire out those two, limit turnovers, and hope our shots fall. All we need to do this. I have faith boys!

[xu82]

Playing awesome defense on Boothe and Pascall again would help too, I think we can win if we have the same defensive intensity we had at Cintas. I'm just hoping that Nova doesn't hit from everywhere on the court like they seem to do against us. Tire out those two, limit turnovers, and hope our shots fall. All we need to do this. I have faith boys!

Exactly, it looked like their legs were dead at the end. Can’t shoot the stinkin’ lights out of your legs are dead.

[xavierj]

Line went from 7.5 to 6 in the last 10 minutes

[xu82]

Q is dribble, dribble, dribble.......

[Lloyd Braun]

Looks like tired legs and it’s 3 minutes elapsed... that’s.. not a great sign.

[KabeX]

Gotta start hitting those short Js

[scoscox]

Weather the storm!

[xudash]

Stay strong. Nice response by Hankins.

[xu82]

We should not be giving up these RB’s!

[xu82]

Naji doing Naji there.....

[xu82]

Welage!!!

[noteggs]

They finally realized Welage was on the court

[xudash]

I care what happens, and I love this team.

[kellernr]

Why cant Q just drive and distribute? Even his layups are ugly.

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[kellernr]

Looks like tired legs and it’s 3 minutes elapsed... that’s.. not a great sign.Gotta get loose.

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[xu82]

Gotta get loose.

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Oh, believe me, I’m working on it!

[xu82]

I heard Scruggs call THAT!!!

(But I have a lot of voices in my head, so....)

[noteggs]

That would be hard to duplicate if you were playing horse

[scoscox]

keep it on them

[xudash]

Well, they have proven that they can take a lead on Villanova. Now keep the intensity and ride this thing all the way to victory.

[UCGRAD4X]

I heard Scruggs call THAT!!!

(But I have a lot of voices in my head, so....)

My wife reads lips and says he definitely called it.

[UCGRAD4X]

No backside help on Samuel when EVERYBODY knew he was taking it.

[UCGRAD4X]

About time they called then non that illegal pick.

[kellernr]

Someone needs to kneecap Q next time he tries a spin move fade away lebron shot.

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[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Pretty solid half but man Q can’t buy a bucket. It’s depressing. Also. Phil Booth should have 5 offensive fouls

[xavierj]

Man Q with 5 assists and 0 turnovers but damn it would be nice if he could finish.

[UCGRAD4X]

I was hoping Xavier had gotten over not being able to close out the half yesterday. Has exasperated me all year.

Seriously thrilled that they are up on Nova, but can't afford to leave any points on the floor against these guys.

[UCGRAD4X]

Man Q with 5 assists and 0 turnovers but damn it would be nice if he could finish.

Last play might as well have been a turnover.

Second half is going to be all Q!

[xavierj]

Man these guys play hard but are offensively challenged. Thankfully Paul showed up. Keep pounding it in, get Naji going and keep playing defense and they will win.

[usfldan]

Is that Red Panda's music I am hearing on the radio at halftime?

[HenryMuto]

Was a Marshall 3 point shot away from being up 13 now only up 6. GRRRRRRRRRR

[HenryMuto]

Man if this team had played this way all year the way they have played the last 3 weeks they would have had a bid locked up easily. Going to be pretty upsetting now if this team misses the dance early in the year when they were losing to everyone I wrote this team off to just not having the talent but man lately this team has been so good it's a shame to see it end.

[RoseyMuskie]

Incredible defensive effort, despite Booth pushing all half.

Switching Naji and Tyrique on Paschall has been quite effective.

Bring it home boys.

[bjf123]

Is that Red Panda's music I am hearing on the radio at halftime?

Yep. Shannon said she was the halftime show tonight.


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[noteggs]

Contain Booth in second half and odds look good

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Need Naj to channel whatever inner Tre, JP, Tu he’s got in him to take over when we need a bucket in the second half.

[UCGRAD4X]

Definitely impressed with the energy on defense. Between Booth and the illegal picks, the defense is doing a helleva job.

Overcome, keep up the pressure, keep working it inside. Bring it home.

[kellernr]

Incredible defensive effort, despite Booth pushing all half.

Switching Naji and Tyrique on Paschall has been quite effective.

Bring it home boys.I dont get why the refs dont call it. They can be standing 2 feet from him and it's clear as day that hes throwing his forearm into the defenders chest everytime

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[IM4X]

Man Q with 5 assists and 0 turnovers but damn it would be nice if he could finish.

Okay- Steele needs to tell him right now to stop with that floater garbage. Q needs to learn the backboard os his friend or go for the dunk and see if he can draw the foul.

His floater’s are getting us no points and no foul. It’s like a turnover.

[American X]

Shannon said she was the halftime show tonight.


Shannon Russell is the halftime show? Worst halftime show ever. You would think MSG could get Air Supply, Kid N Play or the Sex Pistols or something.

[XUBison]

Need to get off to a good start in the 2nd, keep playing with the lead. No prolonged droughts on offense.

[xu82]

Go INSIDE. No Hero Ball!

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Q man. This is getting ridiculous.

[xudash]

Why? Why? Why?

They can't HOPE that they'll start falling.

TAKE IT INSIDE ALL NIGHT LONG!!!!

[scoscox]

q should've just driven in and punched that

[IM4X]

If Q just didn’t shoot- we’d be up by 10-14.

very solid on D, but can’t force it if you are not feeling it. Castlin was wide open for the 3.

[UCGRAD4X]

And when we miss a three it's like a fast D and the resulting tre on the other end is a 6 point swing. Not a winning strategy.

LET THE BIG DOGS EAT!

[xu82]

why? Why? Why?

They can't hope that they'll start falling.

Take it inside all night long!!!!


amen!!!

[IM4X]

Why? Why? Why?

They can't HOPE that they'll start falling.

TAKE IT INSIDE ALL NIGHT LONG!!!!

Amen!

[XUBison]

Q man. This is getting ridiculous.


He just has no touch. He needs to go back to the 3-pt bank shot he perfected earlier in the season.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

I would not mind Tyrique putting Phil Booth on his back there. If you’re going to foul get your moneys worth

[IM4X]

Okay Hankins shouldn’t come out for the rest of the game Travis.

naji and Q might need to stick to passing on offense.

[scoscox]

man we really need naji and q to hit something. we need someone other than paul to give us something to open it up

[IM4X]

Hankins will score another 10 if they just keep him in- he is money.

[xudash]

We aren't going to fold.

Can we make good decisions to win.

[noteggs]

man we really need naji and q to hit something. we need someone other than paul to give us something to open it up

Yup 1-16 for the two.

[kellernr]

Q and naji are 1 of 16 from the floor. Need one of them to show up the last 11 minutes

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[kellernr]

Hankins will score another 10 if they just keep him in- he is money.I like hankins more than Jones. Jones has 0 touch around the rim. He really needs to develop a baby hook

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[UCGRAD4X]

Yup 1-16 for the two.

If they were 4/16, a mere 25% - double digit lead.

[UCGRAD4X]

If they were 4/16, a mere 25% - double digit lead.

Not to mention the subsequent fast break points the other way...often a 3.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Q throwing it right at Hankins shins.

[xu82]

Naji 1/10. Feed the post.

[xu82]

Hankins.

Hankins.

Hankins.

[XUBison]

Gonna have to dig deeper than ever on defense boys.

[paulxu]

Welage is only 2-3. Maybe we should get him a shot or 2.

[xu82]

Naji made one after the whistle. Hope that helps! (Seriously!)

[DexterBailey84]

Man, can this team D up or what?

[stammina0721]

Naji needs to take a seat. Not knocking him it's just not his night. Sit him for a minute or two get in his ear about taking good shots then get him back in to play that lock down defense

[xu82]

Welage is only 2-3. Maybe we should get him a shot or 2.

...or 12.

[xudash]

FT's so huge here.

And probably down to the wire.

[noteggs]

Two more wars to win boys!

[IM4X]

ALWAYS GO WITH THE HOT HANDS.

This is the Scruggs and Hankins show. Feed them.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Big big big FTs for Paul coming up. Need.

[UCGRAD4X]

Naji made one after the whistle. Hope that helps! (Seriously!)

He needs something positive to happen. Who knows? Who cares if it gets him going.

[HenryMuto]

2 more wars

[HenryMuto]

Rebound those Nova misses!!!!!!!!!!

Make your FT's

[Blue Blooded-05]

Scruggs!!!!

[HenryMuto]

FAWK could been up 8 and now lead cut to 4 did I mention FAWK

[Lloyd Braun]

The Paul Scruggs Game.

[xu82]

Will Naji finally do something awesome and feed his Hero mentality? He’s got the ability, jsut needs a little restraint.

[paulxu]

Play smart ball. Please!

[UCGRAD4X]

I think Naji has a pretty good percentage after the whistle.

[xu82]

The D is awesome, as advertised!!!

Love these guys!

[HenryMuto]

1 more war

[stammina0721]

Guys you may bar me for life by saying this... But you know what we are doing? We are playing Mic Cronin basketbal right now. God that was painful to say but it's true

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

One more bucket and one more kill.

[paulxu]

It's amazing that Marshall and Goodin are 0-8 from 3.

[xavierj]

Whatever happens gotta love this group. They just fight.

[noteggs]

The D is awesome, as advertised!!!

Love these guys!

Just awesome! Keep it up for 4 more!

[DexterBailey84]

The job that Travis Steele has done with this group...there are no words.

[paulxu]

I can hear Snipe chanting "lets go Muskies."

[UCGRAD4X]

Guys you may bar me for life by saying this... But you know what we are doing? We are playing Mic Cronin basketbal right now. God that was painful to say but it's true


splain pls

[xu82]

Late clock, can’t even hit rim.

[HenryMuto]

FAWK chance to go up 9 or 10 and instead give up a 3 down to 4 FAWK

[bjf123]

Not liking this!


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[kellernr]

Scruggs wide open in the corner and Naji chucks one from just inside midcourt. Dude cant buyba bucket and hes still playing selfish basketball

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[paulxu]

If someone is going to fire off a crazy three...how about Welage?

[GoMuskies]

Did Naji bet against us?

[xu82]

Sit Marshall’s ass right now! Scruggs open in the corner, and he can actually shoot. Naji clank fron 30.....

[IM4X]

What is Naji doing...

scruggs is wide open and the hot hand but he just had to shoot it from 28. Come on man

[Xville]

What in the flying hell were those last two possessions by naji and q so freaking terrible.

[paulxu]

This is killing me.

[xu82]

Did Naji bet against us?

It sure feels that way!

[IM4X]

Sit Marshall’s ass right now! Scruggs open in the corner, and he can actually shoot. Naji clank fron 30.....

Second time we had the same thought. ha

[UCGRAD4X]

FAWK chance to go up 9 or 10 and instead give up a 3 down to 4 FAWK

After a badly missed three on our end.

Amazing how often that happens.

[xu82]

Hankins for MVP!!!!!!

[Blue Blooded-05]

Need Q and Naji to go 0 for 0 from three from here on

[xu82]

I think I have food burning on the grill.......

[UCGRAD4X]

Need Q and Naji to go 0 for 0 from three from here on

Amen. See what happens when you work it in to Hanky McSpanky!

[HenryMuto]

Unreal was up 4 and give up a 3.................lead to 1.......all we needed was 1 stop

[GoMuskies]

Unreal that shot goes in. Unreal.

[letskeepitreal]

This makin me nervous!

[xu82]

Need Q and Naji to go 0 for 0 from three from here on

The 0 is the easy part. The 0 is the hard part!

[xavierj]

Have to go at the rim. Let it ride.

[UCGRAD4X]

Unreal that shot goes in. Unreal. Not the best time though.

Kind of makes up for Scrugg's bank job.

[HenryMuto]

That missed FT cost us the game it looks like. Now have to win in OT.

[xu82]

Did Naji single handedly lose this? Isn’t he allowed to come down?

[GoMuskies]

Why give the ball to Naji? He's been fucking awful.

[IM4X]

Why take Hankins out?

[kellernr]

Naji was in the air before Gillespie was in position. That's a textbook blocking foul


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[MITTENMUSKIE16]

That was decidedly not an offensive foul. Whatever it takes to win in OT

[xu82]

That’s a bullshit call. Naji left the ground and the guy cam in and took his landing spot.

[HenryMuto]

I just threw up. 2 chances to get a stop and couldn't get either.

[xudash]

Naji's best shot of the night.

[stammina0721]

Good thing castlin is getting zero minutes tonight

[kellernr]

Why take Hankins out?Because he was getting abused on booth/samuel switches

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[DexterBailey84]

why was Naji not blocking out? that's the question.

[stammina0721]

Scruggs only bad play. Watched booth and didn't block out. Pretty gross when I DVR watched it

[kellernr]

Bout fucking time they called a foul on nova

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[GoMuskies]

Why is Naji playing?

[GoMuskies]

Thank God he fouled out.

[kellernr]

Done. Over. Finished. How hankins forgets about Samuel's everytime down the court is mind boggling

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[paulxu]

We gave it a shot, but that call took the air out of the team. And it should. That was a bullshit call.

[bjf123]

Dagger. Fuck! I would have rather lost this game being down the whole time than to give it away like this. We had them beat!!!!!


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[stammina0721]

Valiant effort but Nova has 4 offensive boards in OT. They want it more apparently

[Xville]

Nova gave us every single chance to win this game and q and naji shot us out of it with 2 minutes left in regulation. No way should have lost this game

[HenryMuto]

I am heart broken right now.

[paulxu]

Might as well let Welage hoist some 3's. Nothing to lose.

[noteggs]

Not mention he slid underneath Naji

[kellernr]

Nova gave us every single chance to win this game and q and naji shot us out of it with 2 minutes left in regulation. No way should have lost this gamePathetic display from the 2 supposed team leaders

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[stammina0721]

How does that damn three rattle home with 40 seconds left. My God literally anything that can happen to a Cincinnati sports fan is guaranteed to happen

[paulxu]

Or 2's

[Blue Blooded-05]

I have a better chance of banging Emily Ratajkowski tonight than Q does hitting a 3

[DexterBailey84]

Nova gave us every single chance to win this game and q and naji shot us out of it with 2 minutes left in regulation. No way should have lost this game

Absolutely this

[kellernr]

We also bite on every nova ball fake.

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[paulxu]

When Booth drives to his right (every time) why don't we double from the weak side?

[paulxu]

Nice pass

[kellernr]

Scruggs could have drove that in and cut it 1 with 8 or 9 seconds left. Didnt need those 3s

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[HenryMuto]

Those offensive rebounds the one that hurt the most was the missed FT and kick out for the 3. This game be tied right now possibly.

So he has to make 1st and miss the 2nd ?

[HenryMuto]

I really wish X would have saved that last timeout because if he makes this one and we have to foul we won't have a timeout in case Nova misses a FT.

Looks like we are going to miss on purpose here else that was a terrible terrible timeout call.

[flagship]

I want to have a player like Booth that can do no wrong in the eyes of the official and get ticky tack calls. :(

[HenryMuto]

FCKING idiots freeze your FT shooter calling a timeout

[HenryMuto]

What a terrible timeout you freeze you own shooter and have no timeout in case they missed with 3 seconds left.

That kind of coaching pisses me off

[HenryMuto]

Wow what a heart breaking loss this game was over this game was won. Really hard to take.

[xu82]

We needed a prayer, and the answer was no. Life happens....and we move on.

[letskeepitreal]

Kind of a horrible way to end this season but I loved the way they came back from the 6 straight losses. next year I guess

[paulxu]

Thanks for the year guys.

Crappy way to end with that horseshit call, but you never gave up.

[kellernr]

Need to turn down the NIT invite if it comes. I cant watch anymore naji and q bricks from 3.

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[Xville]

I'm ready for kyky to get on campus....wish hankins would ah e gotten a tourney game...he deserved it the way he played this year.

[stammina0721]

So let's not call the time out to draw up a good set. Instead let's use our time out to draw up a missed free throw for a tip in. Makes sense ... Oh well first year coach making a first year coaching mistake.

Steele has done a lot of good. I think the biggest thing is that the team finally bought into his message. Took longer than we would like but they bought in. Next year should be epic. But before then let's go win the Damn NIT!!!

[IM4X]

What a shame... Naji just couldn’t help himself but force it.

I think he knows it.

[XfansinKy]

We gotta find a PG.

[XUOWNSUC]

We gotta find a PG.

So you hate PGs who have 8 assists and only 2 TO?

[kellernr]

We gotta find a PG.Theres one coming in next year but Q will still start every game over him.

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[Xville]

So you hate PGs who have 8 assists and only 2 TO?

With his awful shot decision making? Yes

Every shot he takes outside of 2 feet is a turnover...so he probably had 10 turnovers.

He should be an off the bench option next year with the actual depth we will have. No reason to play him more than 20 minutes.

[bjf123]

I am so pissed off right now. We had this game in hand and gave it away. Had Nova dominated, I would have thought no problem, they’re the better team. But damn it, we had this one.


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[kellernr]

So you hate PGs who have 8 assists and only 2 TO?2 of 11 from the floor. 75% of his shots might as well be turnovers will how bad they are.

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[xavierj]

We gotta find a PG.

They need more scorers. Q is fine if he shoots leas than 5 times a game and takes care of the ball. He had 8 assists and 2 turnovers tonight but he and Naji just couldn’t buy a basket. Feel bad for all the guys because they played hard enough to win but couldn’t find shots to fall.

[xudash]

So you hate PGs who have 8 assists and only 2 TO?

The airball pass at the end of the game is unforgivable for a Junior with his experience at that moment.

[DexterBailey84]

So you hate PGs who have 8 assists and only 2 TO?

I mean, can a PG not do this without throwing up brick after brick?

[paulxu]

On a side note, when Marshall and Goodin are 0-12 from 3, it's a long way home.

Hopefully some of our incoming guys will help Scruggs in this area.

We were good enough inside this year to go further, but not outside. It really is that simple.

Maybe Naji was tired (1-12) but you gotta be smart enough to use Welage; free him up or whatever.

[Backyard Champ]

Season ends on a block/charge call. Dang

Hell of a run. That one stings though

[UCGRAD4X]

Defense definitely didn't have the same energy down the stretch. But those ill advised threes definitely were the key. However, if just one of them fell in regulation...

Oh well. So long till next year.

Another long anguishing off-season.

Thanks for all the excitement, giving us something to root for down the stretch.

[XUGRAD80]

:(. This one stings a little. But a nice run in the NIT would take some of that away. Not sure they would have won in the finals against Marquette anyway.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

X has shown that there is no need to fear Nova any more. We are totally capable of beating them. It is sad to see how we lost the lead and eventually this game, but this team has shown tremendous improvement and courage. We will be a great team next year.

[XUBob]

Ok, I’m as disappointed/upset, drained like everyone else. This is just one of several games X couldn’t finish this year I’m sure we have out theories and reasons why. To me bottom line we didn’t have enough consistent quality players. Performances were up and down all year. Not one of our key players had long periods of good play. It took too long to get the roster to gel. This is the most disappointing year in a long time, but, over the last month I’ve seen improvement. Not enough mind you but if the core four work hard and dedicate themselves to get back to the NCAA and we get anything from the freshman and probably a grad transfer it can be done. The milk is spilled I’m not going to cry over it. Looking forward to next year.

[XUOWNSUC]

2 of 11 from the floor. 75% of his shots might as well be turnovers will how bad they are.

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How many of those shots are when he gets stuck with the ball w/ 1 or 2 seconds left on the shot clock? Most guys will brick a shot if they got to throw it up at the last second.

The hatred for Q on this board is unreal. I look forward his senior season next year. His story isn’t over yet.

[Strange Brew]

Season ends on a block/charge call. Dang

Hell of a run. That one stings though

Just like a couple years ago against Wisky or the bs against OSU. This is getting old..

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

X gets literally ANYTHING from Q or Naj and they win in regulation. 3-23. Time to drink until it’s November 2019

[Xville]

How many of those shots are when he gets stuck with the ball w/ 1 or 2 seconds left on the shot clock? Most guys will brick a shot if they got to throw it up at the last second.

The hatred for Q on this board is unreal. I look forward his senior season next year. His story isn’t over yet.

Because he dribbles around like an idiot for 15 seconds before getting the team into the offense.

[ford]

The no TO calls at end of reg and end of OT were absolutely awful by Steele. That works when you have blueitt and Macura, not w this team. Call timeout and setup your best play. That and the terrible 3 attempts down the stretch. Incredible turnaround by Steele and this team though. And crazy how many minutes some guys played. Shame they didn’t figure it one or two games earlier. Future looks bright!

[XUOWNSUC]

Because he dribbles around like an idiot for 15 seconds before getting the team into the offense.

That ain’t true.

[GuyFawkes38]

Ugh.

Still, what a year! This team could have easily folded. Not bad for a down year.

[drudy23]

When the clock is winding down, the team always passes the ball to Q. It should be going to Scruggs in those situations 95% of the time.

Q is capable of running the point, but he's simply not a threat outside of the rim, and he's not dangerous as the clock winds down.

[Xavgrad08]

Tough game to lose. We played well defensively for most of the game. The missed box out at the end of regulation was huge. Hankins played really well, but that missed foul shot was a killer. If we are selected to the nit then let’s win the darn thing.

[XfansinKy]

How many of those shots are when he gets stuck with the ball w/ 1 or 2 seconds left on the shot clock? Most guys will brick a shot if they got to throw it up at the last second.

The hatred for Q on this board is unreal. I look forward his senior season next year. His story isn’t over yet.

I don't hate him at all. He's just not an elite PG. He's been surrounded with talent up until now too. He's a good player with some nice jumping ability. He just doesn't have soft hands, and you have to at PG in D1. It's not hate, it's Being realistic.

[Muskeagle]

25 minutes into the second half.....X STILL isn't in the bonus. Ridiculous. The charge call was awful. Naji had plenty of room to land until Gillespie scooted up and under him. Frustrating. BUT great effort. I love the way this team stuck together and came back strong. Looking for a strong (albeit disappointing) NIT run! Go X

[GuyFawkes38]

When the clock is winding down, the team always passes the ball to Q. It should be going to Scruggs in those situations 95% of the time.

Q is capable of running the point, but he's simply not a threat outside of the rim, and he's not dangerous as the clock winds down.

Agree. But big picture, this team is much stronger at the post, which is bad recipe for finishing games strong.

I still love Q. Plays with a lot of passion. A classic X player.

[Xville]

Just really sucks that nova did not play well at all and we essentially handed them the game down the stretch.

Wish this team would have figured it out about a week before they did...20-13 and this team is most likely dancing...ugh. just hate that we have to wait 8 freaking months.

[Muskeagle]

When the clock is winding down, the team always passes the ball to Q. It should be going to Scruggs in those situations 95% of the time.

Q is capable of running the point, but he's simply not a threat outside of the rim, and he's not dangerous as the clock winds down.

Not to just be disagreeable, but Scruggs has a tendency to turn to the ball over a lot too. He makes ill advised passes and is not the best dribbler in the world. Admittedly in a few more minutes, Scruggs had 6 more TOs than Goodin on the year. I'm not saying Q is great, but Scruggs is no sure thing either.

[HenryMuto]

Just tough one to take going to be hard to sleep tonight. I am a Kentucky fan first but that doesn't mean this loss hurts any less for me. I live in Ohio and have always rooted for Xavier as well.

[GoMuskies]

If Naji stays in Cincinnati, we're playing tomorrow night. It's one thing to play bad. He actively sabotaged our team.

[drudy23]

Not to just be disagreeable, but Scruggs has a tendency to turn to the ball over a lot too. He makes ill advised passes and is not the best dribbler in the world. Admittedly in a few more minutes, Scruggs had 6 more TOs than Goodin on the year. I'm not saying Q is great, but Scruggs is no sure thing either.

Maybe, but Scruggs is a threat outside of 2 feet. The most important aspect in the situation where the clock in winding down is a bucket. Not a brick.

[Xville]

If Naji stays in Cincinnati, we're playing tomorrow night. It's one thing to play bad. He actively sabotaged our team.

Paul and hankins did not deserve to lose that game tonight...q and naji need to take this feeling and be better next year.

[xu82]

Tough game to lose. We played well defensively for most of the game. The missed box out at the end of regulation was huge. Hankins played really well, but that missed foul shot was a killer. If we are selected to the nit then let’s win the darn thing.

I blame Hankins for NOTHING. He was the reason we were in this game, and most games lately. He’s a baller! Love that guy!

[Blue Blooded-05]

When the clock is winding down, the team always passes the ball to Q. It should be going to Scruggs in those situations 95% of the time.

Q is capable of running the point, but he's simply not a threat outside of the rim, and he's not dangerous as the clock winds down.

That’s cus the other team watches film and knows a sub-20% 3 point shooter is gonna hoist one up from Jordan Crawford territory. It happened so often it can’t be an accident.

[SteveSpivery]

Scruggs is just as likely to turn the ball over, but he is much more likely to create an opportunity and score. Goodin only scores when he beats his man and there is no one under the basket. I like Goodin's effort, but he will not pass the ball to some open players, cannot create anything on offense.

[XUBison]

How many of those shots are when he gets stuck with the ball w/ 1 or 2 seconds left on the shot clock? Most guys will brick a shot if they got to throw it up at the last second.

The hatred for Q on this board is unreal. I look forward his senior season next year. His story isn’t over yet.


Good grief, nobody hates Q. Stop it.

[IM4X]

I blame Hankins for NOTHING. He was the reason we were in this game, and most games lately. He’s a baller! Love that guy!

Agreed. He was heading for all Tournament honors if we kept winning.

He is such a stud. All In all of the time. Never selfish. Always money.

[IM4X]

Sucks that we can’t have Hankins for one more year. He will be missed.

[markchal]

I think Scruggs is our best player and we'd be smart to make him the focal point of our offense next year. I worry the egos of some of the other returning guys will not let that happen. At least we should finally be that great defensive team Steele talked about in the preseason.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

Naji passes to Paul in the corner up 4 or 5 (I think) and we win the game

[xu82]

Sucks that we can’t have Hankins for one more year. He will be missed.

Amen there. I don’t have the juice for reps.

[OTRMUSKIE]

I think X def makes it back to NYC. Once this team gets over the disappointment they will regroup and dominate. BRING ON VD

[Caveat]

1. A disappointing result.

2. A disappointing season.

3. The future of Xavier basketball is incredibly bright.

[drudy23]

That’s cus the other team watches film and knows a sub-20% 3 point shooter is gonna hoist one up from Jordan Crawford territory. It happened so often it can’t be an accident.

Then why do the Xavier players keep handing it off to Q with the clock at 6 (and the coaching staff keep letting it happen). It happened 5-6 times and we knew what the result was gonna be. There's simply no trust in those situations.

If I'm the opponent, I'm thanking them.

[IM4X]

Hey, maybe the committee will watch the game and be like, “We’ve gotta see that Hankins dude in the tournament. Let’s give X the nod.”

[HenryMuto]

This is how close 1 of the main guys I follow had it coming into today.........so a win over Nova might have been enough.

Last 4 in - Temple, Alabama, Belmont, Florida
First 4 out - UNCG, Xavier, Georgetown, Indiana

[OTRMUSKIE]

Def a disappointing game but this season turned out to be exactly what most thought of not better. They picked us 9th we finished 4th. This season isn’t over yet either. We got 5 more games to play.

[X Factor]

Good grief, nobody hates Q. Stop it.

Exactly. It's not hating to point out that our starting PG had 2 CRITICAL turnovers late in the game. It's not hating to point out that he shot 37% from the field, less than 30% from three and less than 70% from the FT line on the season.

[Xville]

Def a disappointing game but this season turned out to be exactly what most thought of not better. They picked us 9th we finished 4th. This season isn’t over yet either. We got 5 more games to play.

In my opinion, the nit is a complete waste of time. A few more games against mediocre competition doesnt exactly get the blood flowing. See you all in november.

[Xavier]

Def a disappointing game but this season turned out to be exactly what most thought of not better. They picked us 9th we finished 4th. This season isn’t over yet either. We got 5 more games to play.

Meh, unless the circumstances are so unbelievably crazy, no one should expect to miss the tournament. It’s still a disappointing season but the change gives a ton of hope for next year.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Well please don’t watch then bc if you’re not happy to watch x play more ball then GFYS. Nobody wants the kNIT but it beats not playing at all. It’s been like 25 years since we have been in this. UK has been in it and UNC as well. Once next weekend is over you will change you’re tune.

[drudy23]

I'm sure we will play in the NIT if invited, but eh, it doesn't do anything for me.

[stammina0721]

I'm sure we will play in the NIT if invited, but eh, it doesn't do anything for me.

Why not? It's post season experience against great competition for a first year coach and an entire team coming back next year except the transfers. It's not the NCAA, but don't forget in very recent years UNC and UK have been big NIT players and are fine now. It occasionally happens so embrace it and hope we use that experience to build on next year. The NIT is not useless and that could be a great spring board to next year

[markchal]

accept the NIT for the grad transfers but I couldn't care less what happens in it. Just exhibition ball. Hope they at least get Harden some more time. We will need him next year.

We're gonna need some more transfers too. I don't love only bringing back like 5 or 6 guys, but hopefully the core 4 will start next year the way we thought they would this year.

[Caveat]

Well please don’t watch then bc if you’re not happy to watch x play more ball then GFYS. Nobody wants the kNIT but it beats not playing at all. It’s been like 25 years since we have been in this. UK has been in it and UNC as well. Once next weekend is over you will change you’re tune.

Eh — the NIT is beneath programs like XU, UK, UNC, etc.

Turning it down is the right move.

[Xville]

accept the NIT for the grad transfers but I couldn't care less what happens in it. Just exhibition ball. Hope they at least get Harden some more time. We will need him next year.

We're gonna need some more transfers too. I don't love only bringing back like 5 or 6 guys, but hopefully the core 4 will start next year the way we thought they would this year.

Could certainly use a grad big if there ends up being one out there that fits. Backcourt is fine. Kyky will 100% be in the rotation and supposedly Steele said bishop will too. There will be plenty of depth in the backcourt assuming no one other than keonte(I'm assuming) leaves.

[Xville]

accept the NIT for the grad transfers but I couldn't care less what happens in it. Just exhibition ball. Hope they at least get Harden some more time. We will need him next year.

We're gonna need some more transfers too. I don't love only bringing back like 5 or 6 guys, but hopefully the core 4 will start next year the way we thought they would this year.

Could certainly use a grad big if there ends up being one out there that fits. Backcourt is fine. Kyky will 100% be in the rotation and supposedly Steele said bishop will too. There will be plenty of depth in the backcourt assuming no one other than keonte(I'm assuming) leaves.

[Xavier]

I wouldn’t turn it down- and this is exact time it can be beneficial (key to next years team all coming back). But it’s disappointing they will be in it and I won’t be going out of my way to watch it.

[drudy23]

Why not? It's post season experience against great competition for a first year coach and an entire team coming back next year except the transfers. It's not the NCAA, but don't forget in very recent years UNC and UK have been big NIT players and are fine now. It occasionally happens so embrace it and hope we use that experience to build on next year. The NIT is not useless and that could be a great spring board to next year

That's fine for the development of the program if they choose to do that. Most of the team is either leaving or a tested vet. So whatever.

I doubt they would turn it down, but who knows.

As a fan, I don't care. Just being honest.

[Xville]

Why not? It's post season experience against great competition for a first year coach and an entire team coming back next year except the transfers. It's not the NCAA, but don't forget in very recent years UNC and UK have been big NIT players and are fine now. It occasionally happens so embrace it and hope we use that experience to build on next year. The NIT is not useless and that could be a great spring board to next year

It's mediocre not great competition and this whole "development for the team' stuff is so overblown. It's similar to what people say about being in a useless bowl game and winning it. It has zero bearing on the following year in my opinion. If they play in it if they get invited, ok that's fine whatever but if it was up to me, which it obviously isnt, I'd rather just have the season be over.

[Lloyd Braun]

I don’t think I will be able to watch mostly because the 3pt line is 1’8” farther than current 3pt line in the NIT. Watching Naji and Q jack up 3s from 22 feet? No thanks!

[IM4X]

Jay Wright is Just such a class act.

I really love that he is in the BE. Most talented, most genuine and classiest coach around.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=8GBogPC3RTM


I think Steele is on his way to being a lot like him.

[D-West & PO-Z]

1. Fuck that charge call. Seriously. Slid right under Naji.

2. Hard to win when 2 of you best players are absolute no shows offensively.

3. As far as heart breaking losses in X history this is towards the bottom given the circumstances and expectations.

4. If we host an NIT game or two I will definitely be there to support these guys. The fact that they turned this season around and made the last month of Xavier basketball entertaining for us all is awesome. The program is in good hands with Steele I think we can all agree. Play for the grad transfers who have never played in any Div 1 post season tourney. I will watch any X game not matter what the circumstances.

5. Its gonna be a long wait but next season has to be one of the more anticipated X seasons.

[OTRMUSKIE]

I am willing to bet that all those NIT haters will be watching and rooting for X once they win the first two games and there are only 16 teams left in he dance. Plus we don’t want to lose the streak of Jimmy Carter when we play VD at the Tas bc that’s happening.

[drudy23]

If they play, fine. If they don't, fine.

I wouldn't want them to lose, but it just doesn't really mean much. They're exhibition games. Literally, the equivalent of playing an exhibition game.

[IM4X]

1. Fuck that charge call. Seriously. Slid right under Naji.

2. Hard to win when 2 of you best players are absolute no shows offensively.

3. As far as heart breaking losses in X history this is towards the bottom given the circumstances and expectations.

4. If we host an NIT game or two I will definitely be there to support these guys. The fact that they turned this season around and made the last month of Xavier basketball entertaining for us all is awesome. The program is in good hands with Steele I think we can all agree. Play for the grad transfers who have never played in any Div 1 post season tourney. I will watch any X game not matter what the circumstances.

5. Its gonna be a long wait but next season has to be one of the more anticipated X seasons.

Can’t help but think, either D Miles better by ready to go, or we really need to find another true big like Hankins (6’10 or taller) for next year. Jones is gonna be important too but man if Miles could be plugged in and play like Hankins (or of Steele and staff could find another big similar to him), look out.

I have simply loved watching Hankins go from solid contributor to absolute stud in one season. Just amazing!

[Caveat]

I am willing to bet that all those NIT haters will be watching and rooting for X once they win the first two games and there are only 16 teams left in he dance. Plus we don’t want to lose the streak of Jimmy Carter when we play VD at the Tas bc that’s happening.

Nah. It’s a joke event.

If the players genuinely want to play, more power to them. But I’m not gonna get fired up about being crowned the 69th best team in America.

[Lloyd Braun]

I’m not sure how Hankins got so good without Pegues here... strange!

[xudash]

1. Fuck that charge call. Seriously. Slid right under Naji.

2. Hard to win when 2 of you best players are absolute no shows offensively.

3. As far as heart breaking losses in X history this is towards the bottom given the circumstances and expectations.

4. If we host an NIT game or two I will definitely be there to support these guys. The fact that they turned this season around and made the last month of Xavier basketball entertaining for us all is awesome. The program is in good hands with Steele I think we can all agree. Play for the grad transfers who have never played in any Div 1 post season tourney. I will watch any X game not matter what the circumstances.

5. Its gonna be a long wait but next season has to be one of the more anticipated X seasons.

This.

[drudy23]

I'm not sold that Q and Naji are 100% bought in to Steele. If they're not, I hope that changes before next year. I feel if those three were seeing eye to eye from the start, we're playing next Thursday/Friday.

It was obvious our best strategy was inside - out. Although it did get better the last 10 games, there were times where they still made poor decisions with quick shots and dumb plays.

I hope they embrace their leadership roles next year and realize that the whole is bigger than the sum.

[SlimKibbles]

Eh — the NIT is beneath programs like XU, UK, UNC, etc.

Turning it down is the right move.

Is that why UK and UNC turned down NIT invites? Oh wait...

The right move? Get over yourself. Keep your tv off. If the guys want to play in the NIT, that’s great. Go win the whole thing.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[D-West & PO-Z]

I'm not sold that Q and Naji are 100% bought in to Steele. If they're not, I hope that changes before next year. I feel if those three were seeing eye to eye from the start, we're playing next Thursday/Friday.

It was obvious our best strategy was inside - out. Although it did get better the last 10 games, there were times where they still made poor decisions with quick shots and dumb plays.

I hope they embrace their leadership roles next year and realize that the whole is bigger than the sum.

From what I was told earlier this year, Q was dealing with a pretty significant personal issue this year and Steele was the first one he went to about it. I think the guys are bought into Steele. Steele grew as a coach big time this year.