2019 NCAA Tournament

[GoMuskies]

It's not the same without Xavier, but it's still great. And it has begun. 6-5 Fairleigh Ridiculous

[bjf123]

I no longer care.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[GoMuskies]

FDU on pace to turn it over 40 times. That's not good.

[X-band '01]

Prairie View picked a bad time in the game for a scoring drought. They're now down 4 with 17.9 seconds to play.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I am stuck on a couple games. What you guys think. Who will win:

VCU vs UCF (VCU best player was injured bur reportedly playing)
Minnesota vs Louisville (really wanna pick Minnesota)
Liberty vs Miss St (think I am going Liberty)
Utah St vs Wash

[xavierj]

I am stuck on a couple games. What you guys think. Who will win:

VCU vs UCF (VCU best player was injured bur reportedly playing)
Minnesota vs Louisville (really wanna pick Minnesota)
Liberty vs Miss St (think I am going Liberty)
Utah St vs Wash

Who wins or are you talking about betting lines. If just winners I would go with Louisville, UCF, Miss. State and Washington.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Who wins or are you talking about betting lines. If just winners I would go with Louisville, UCF, Miss. State and Washington.

Yeah just winners for my bracket.

Thanks

[GIMMFD]

Yeah just winners for my bracket.

Thanks

If you're into analytics they say to watch the Vegas lines way more closely than seed lines apparently, I thought this thread on reddit was pretty cool, used their site to plug in my bracket and the calculated risk model is genius tbh: https://www.reddit.com/r/CollegeBasketball/comments/b30lzf/i_am_brad_null_data_scientist_and_founder_of/

[scoscox]

temple had no business getting a bid

[GIMMFD]

temple had no business getting a bid

I will say, I'm loving the NC State athletic director's level of pettiness to drop "advanced statistics" when completely disregarding the fact that the ACC has 3 teams that are 1 seeds, so there's absolutely no reason your SOS should be 179th..

[X-band '01]

Had NC State scheduled more teams like Hofstra, Lipscomb or East Tennessee State instead of their garbage buy games, they'd be in. Their noncon SOS was 352nd out of 353. End of story.

[GoMuskies]

Had NC State scheduled more teams like Hofstra, Lipscomb or East Tennessee State instead of their garbage buy games, they'd be in. Their noncon SOS was 352nd out of 353. End of story.

You're assuming they would have won those games.

[X-band '01]

Even Georgetown beat Liberty this year.

It would have been funnier for Debbie Yow to pull a Mick Cronin and claim their buy games sucked because they were too cheap to bring in teams like the three that I mentioned. If anyone had a reason to gripe about being left out, it was TCU this year.

[GIMMFD]

You're assuming they would have won those games.

I mean, they have beaten some decent teams, like Auburn, played a close one with Wisconsin, beat Syracuse, they just had to change a few of their games to better opponents, switch out those teams and yeah, a win is never guaranteed, but a Non-Conference SOS that's next to dead last is just down right ridiculous for any major conference team with NCAA Tournament aspirations. Crap job by their director of basketball operations truly, so glad we have Mario, he does a great job with our scheduling in my opinion.

[XUOWNSUC]

St. John’s sucks. Didn’t deserve a spot.

[Lloyd Braun]

St. John’s body of work Is good. Unfortunately they suck in this setting and the eye test (hate that phrase but I guess appropriate) shows disorganization without a real game plan. That’s not a good recipe for the dance.

[noteggs]

Boy watching ASU and St John’s right now is bad basketball! Neither deserved to be in.

[drudy23]

A good coach would have had St Johns in the top 10 at one point over the last 3 years.

[scoscox]

St. John’s body of work Is good. Unfortunately they suck in this setting and the eye test (hate that phrase but I guess appropriate) shows disorganization without a real game plan. That’s not a good recipe for the dance.

Their metrics were terrible. 81 on kenpom and 74 in net before today. St. John’s was a case where they benefitted from the committee moving away from the “last ten games” criteria because they were horrific and nothing like a tournament team at the end of the season

[novachap]

Honestly, the eye test clearly showed you guys before them. they sucked and laid a huge egg last night.

[X-band '01]

At the end of the day Chap, Xavier just didn't have the entire body of work to get in. Losses to San Diego State and Mizzou were killers, and Xavier also got bullied at UC early in the year.

Xavier WAS playing like an NCAA Tournament team for the final month of the year, but they flipped the switch 2 weeks too late.

[Muskie]

This Minnesota-Louisville game slow...

[GoMuskies]

This Minnesota-Louisville game slow...

The fact that Louisville is facing a Pitino is the only thing that could make me root for Louisville...and now we have our first Bill Murray sighting. Bummer, I liked those better in Xavier gear.

[Xville]

Go gophers!!! They average about 5 threes per game..they have already made 3 in less than ten minutes. Sounds like a mack coached defensive team to me. Kiss my ass mack.

[Xville]

My yale pick is off to a rough start.

[GoMuskies]

In watching the Louisville/MN game, I realized that I haven't really watched Louisville this year, and they kind of suck.

[Xville]

In watching the Louisville/MN game, I realized that I haven't really watched Louisville this year, and they kind of suck.

It's amazing how terrible vj king (McDonald all american junior) is. The praise mack got this year for what was actually quite a bit of roster talent on it dumbfounded me.

With all that said, Minnesota is also garbage so wont be surprised to see louisville win this one.

[X-band '01]

The fact that Louisville is facing a Pitino is the only thing that could make me root for Louisville...and now we have our first Bill Murray sighting. Bummer, I liked those better in Xavier gear.

Was that a bearded Bobby Petrino sitting next to Bill Murray earlier?

[Xville]

Side note, luke is getting quite a bit of interest for head coaching positions at the lower levels such as Mercer etc.. dont think he will be at louisville long at all.

[GoMuskies]

Minnesota was on fire. Doubt they can sustain that.

[GoMuskies]

I have Louisville in my brackets. I have Louisville -5. I'm having a hard time being disappointed while they are being dismantled by Minnesota so far.

[paulxu]

I have Louisville in my brackets. I have Louisville -5. I'm having a hard time being disappointed while they are being dismantled by Minnesota so far.

I hope you didn't go all the way to Vegas for this egg laying.

[GoMuskies]

I hope you didn't go all the way to Vegas for this egg laying.

Next week paul. Next week.

[chico]

Sorry Go, but I'm loving this. Plus I took Minnesota +5. Wish I could say I knew all along but the only reason I took Minnesota was I couldn't bring myself to root for Mack.

[GoMuskies]

The Louisville board is gold right now.

[murray87]

Someone tell Bill Murray that a gopher is going to eat the L'Ville post-season

[Xville]

The Louisville board is gold right now.

Probably a bunch of "mack cant coach big time basketball" which in a lot of ways I think is quite true...he feasted on the mediocre a10 and mediocre to average big east teams. 1-10 against Wright, 500 or less record against Cooley, Willard and McDermott

[GIMMFD]

Sorry Go, but I'm loving this. Plus I took Minnesota +5. Wish I could say I knew all along but the only reason I took Minnesota was I couldn't bring myself to root for Mack.

Took Minnesota in my bracket, and all I gotta say is.. AHAHAHAHAHAHHA FUCK YOU MACK. May have to go read the Louisville board for some humor. Chris Mack shitting the bed in the NCAA Tournament!? NEVER SEEN THAT BEFORE HAHAHAHAH

[GoMuskies]

Probably a bunch of "mack cant coach big time basketball" which in a lot of ways I think is quite true...he feasted on the mediocre a10 and mediocre to average big east teams. 1-10 against Wright, 500 or less record against Cooley, Willard and McDermott

Sprinkle in a heavy dose of Mack has only won in a mid-major league, and you've pretty much got it.

They're back to 9.

[Xville]

Sprinkle in a heavy dose of Mack has only won in a mid-major league, and you've pretty much got it.

They're back to 9.

I can't wait until X makes the final four within the next three years and Mack continues around the 500 mark in the ACC with little success in the tourney. He deserves everything he gets negatively on a professional level. F him.

[GoMuskies]

If this miracle three counts, this game isn't over.

[Xville]

night night mack..kiss my ass

[GoMuskies]

Louisville is done now. Feel so bad for the Mack family #Sarcasm#

Now I hope Richard's team gets beat by 50 in the next round (preferably by Bradley, but more likely Michigan State).

[chico]

2334

[JTG]

Oh, poor Chris.....not....Fu*k you, you bald headed prick.
Thank you Pitino jr.

[GoMuskies]

Too bad Yale shot like shit.

[Xville]

Too bad Yale shot like shit.

I may get that 7.5 bet, dont know how they are close shooting 5 of 31 from three so far.

[GoMuskies]

4 point game. Need some missed FTs.

[Xville]

I swear on all that is holy that if Leonard Hamilton effs me in my brackets....

[GoMuskies]

I swear on all that is holy that if Leonard Hamilton effs me in my brackets....

Go Vermont!

[Xville]

Thanks for the cash yale but wish they would have won outright.

[GIMMFD]

Thanks for the cash yale but wish they would have won outright.

Almost picked them too, if their star player didn't go 1/9 from the 3 or whatever would have been interesting to see, but that "triple spillage" clip is 100% going to go viral, absolutely hilarious.

[scoscox]

Mack is getting some serious heat at least on Twitter for that loss haha it’s a joy going through them all

[GoMuskies]

Thanks for the cash yale but wish they would have won outright.

I wish I had been in a Vegas sportsbook for that last Yale three! Must have been absolutely nuts.

[GIMMFD]

Mack is getting some serious heat at least on Twitter for that loss haha it’s a joy going through them all

To be fair, Minnesota doesn't make that many threes ever, but I'm still loving every second of this!! Hahaha.

[X-band '01]

New Mexico State also hanging around with Auburn. Aggies haven't won an NCAA Tournament game since a Sweet 16 run back in 1992.

[scoscox]

Auburn’s been inconsistent and prone to upsets all year. They die by the three a lot. I took nmsu as my 5-12 upset

[GIMMFD]

Florida State with a beautiful first half, watch they're gonna play like absolute crap, squeak this one out, and then roll Gonzaga for some stupid reason, I just feel it.

[X-band '01]

Let me correct myself - New Mexico State did beat Nebraska back in 1993. They are 0-9 since that time.

[GIMMFD]

No idea why a lot of the advanced analytic/bracket predictor sites and resources have Auburn going really far, they're so inconsistent..

[Lamont Sanford]

night night mack..kiss my ass

+1

[Blue Blooded-05]

I always said Mack coached teams thrived as the underdog. Made the 2nd weekend as a 6, 10, 6 and 11 seed. Crapped away 9-point 2nd half leads with 6 minutes left in the first weekend as both a 2 and 1 seed.

Much harder to play the “they don’t respect us” card when you have six top-100 recruits brought in by one of the most successful coaches of all time.

[GoMuskies]

Looks like N Mex St. is going to lose, but I'd settle for the +5.5 cover.

[X-band '01]

No idea why a lot of the advanced analytic/bracket predictor sites and resources have Auburn going really far, they're so inconsistent..

They finally played like the team we expected the final two weeks of the season, though. As long as they survive today, I see them beating Kansas in Round 2 (if Northeastern doesn't beat them to the punch).

[GIMMFD]

They finally played like the team we expected the final two weeks of the season, though. As long as they survive today, I see them beating Kansas in Round 2 (if Northeastern doesn't beat them to the punch).

Well you know Kansas is having a down year when they don't win the Big 12, couple that with Vick and Azubike (albeit out for a while) just not the best recipe for success, but I had them beating Kansas too, just a few people on Reddit and what not saying that they'd be tough for UNC to play, and I was like "in what freaking world??" ... hold up Auburn may still piss this away

[Xville]

Well you know Kansas is having a down year when they don't win the Big 12, couple that with Vick and Azubike (albeit out for a while) just not the best recipe for success, but I had them beating Kansas too, just a few people on Reddit and what not saying that they'd be tough for UNC to play, and I was like "in what freaking world??" ... hold up Auburn may still piss this away

Yeah I got them in s16, but unc will run them out of the gym if they meet. UNC does everything Auburn does but about ten times better.

[Xville]

This might be the craziest ending I have ever seen.

[GIMMFD]

This might be the craziest ending I have ever seen.

That was the most ridiculous 3 game minutes of basketball I've seen, what in the actual hell was that. Auburn tried to give New Mexico State the win, that was absolutely ridiculous

[Muskie]

For some reason I have Auburn in the Final Four... I have no idea in retrospect, why I have them there. I don't alter my bracket once I write it down.

[GoMuskies]

New Mexico State can't say they didn't have their chances. Yowza.

[X-band '01]

That took brass balls to pass up a wide open layup for a potential game-winning 3. Tough for the Aggies to only hit 1 of 3 FTs in that situation.

[Xville]

That was the most ridiculous 3 game minutes of basketball I've seen, what in the actual hell was that. Auburn tried to give New Mexico State the win, that was absolutely ridiculous

I actually laughed out loud at this comment because those 3 minutes were just absolutely ridiculous...just thinking about all of the things both teams did wrong is almost hysterical.

[Xville]

How much shine will come off Izzo if he goes one and done 2 out of 3 years as a 2 seed on top of not getting out of the first weekend as a 3 seed last year? Yikes!

[X-band '01]

It would actually be 2 out of 4 years, but he's still got more than enough goodwill in the back at State to not worry.

Now if Michigan wins the title this year and finishes ahead of Sparty next year as well, then things might start to get hairy for Sparty fans.

[Muskie]

How much shine will come off Izzo if he goes one and done 2 out of 3 years as a 2 seed on top of not getting out of the first weekend as a 3 seed last year? Yikes!
He's got two national titles and 15 conference championships. I don't think he'll lose much.

[Xville]

It would actually be 2 out of 4 years, but he's still got more than enough goodwill in the back at State to not worry.

Now if Michigan wins the title this year and finishes ahead of Sparty next year as well, then things might start to get hairy for Sparty fans.

Ah yes..counting is a struggle for me today :)

[chico]

Underdogs are having a day so far. So naturally I bet on Michigan St.

[GoMuskies]

Underdogs are having a day so far. So naturally I bet on Michigan St.

I was feeling pretty smug about my Belmont ML bet...for a while.

[Xville]

Well, I have Belmont and Michigan state fighting for the right to lose to duke in the elite eight, so I got that going for me...which is nice.

[bobbiemcgee]

New Mexico State can't say they didn't have their chances. Yowza.

Painful memory of Hankins missed ft.

[bobbiemcgee]

Bradley hangin'

[GoMuskies]

Bradley hangin'

Brian Wardle is probably on the Marquette watch list if Wojo gets called away (or struggles a few years and gets canned).

[chico]

I was feeling pretty smug about my Belmont ML bet...for a while.

Belmont winning would be very nice.

[GoMuskies]

Morant's friends are hitting some shots off his ridiculous passes for now. Great start for the Racers. I want them to win, but I am on Marquette -3.

[Muskie]

Painful memory of Hankins missed ft.

More painful than Justin Cage's missed free throw?

[chico]

I took the over in the Murray/Marquette game. Got it at 149 1/2 so I'm feeling good so far.

[GoMuskies]

Thought about Michigan State -11 second half but didn't pull the trigger. They are sitting right on the # with a minute to go.

[American X]

This Dylan Windler from Belmont reminds me exactly of me on the basketball court. It's like watching video of myself.

[GoMuskies]

This Howard kid from Marquette can play a little.

[chico]

I bet the MSU second half, but at -12. Did not mind a push there at all.

[GoMuskies]

Terrible luck for Belmont on that scramble play. Damn.

[xu82]

Terrible luck for Belmont on that scramble play. Damn.

No kidding....big swing there. Ouch!

[xu82]

FT’s. MAKE your FT’s!


I feel terrible for the NM State kid who shots 78% and missed 2 of 3 with the game on the line. Hold you chin up, young man! Still haven’t forgiven Bruce Pearl for the 2OT loss there a few years ago. Had a nice X crowd there.

[JTG]

FT’s. MAKE your FT’s!


I feel terrible for the NM State kid who shots 78% and missed 2 of 3 with the game on the line. Hold you chin up, young man! Still haven’t forgiven Bruce Pearl for the 2OT loss there a few years ago. Had a nice X crowd there.

Forget the loss. Pearl is a scumbag, and Chuck Person is going to prison in his stead.

[Xville]

Ugh stupid belmont....

[xu82]

I hope Marquette stops pissing me off.

[xudash]

More painful than Justin Cage's missed free throw?

Uh, no.

[Xville]

I dont think I have ever had a bracket start out this bad.

[xu82]

I dont think I have ever had a bracket start out this bad.

Congrats on breaking new ground!

[Xville]

Murray state making Marquette look absolutely stupid. Not surprised. Said for weeks Marquette was a one and done...now watch they will come a the way back.

[GoMuskies]

Marquette looks like a joke. Big East is having an extremely shitty Tournament.

[X-band '01]

It won't get any better tonight. Wofford ain't losing to the Hall.

Villanova should beat Saint Mary's, but that might be the only game the Big East wins this season.

[JTG]

Ok Marquette, thanks for coming. Here's the home version of the "We suck in the NCAA " GAME.

[GoMuskies]

Wily move by Coach K to not have a single guy who's coached under him that's worth a shit. They'll never want him to retire!

[scoscox]

We take one year off to integrate a new coach and system and the whole league goes to shit

[scoscox]

How do you only score 46 points on an ovc team with Markus howard and the housers? How is that even possible? Wojo... woooooof

[X-band '01]

Wily move by Coach K to not have a single guy who's coached under him that's worth a shit. They'll never want him to retire!

Meh, Mike Brey had a few decent runs with Notre Dame recently. I certainly wouldn't be counting on him to replace him when the time comes, though.

[scoscox]

One of our teams should hire Nate Oats tomorrow. Maybe give Wes Miller a look too

[drudy23]

Morant has made everyone forget Markus Howard is even in this game.

[Xavgrad08]

Marquette is getting dominated. Murray State has been a pretty good launching pad for coaches.

[Lloyd Braun]

Marquette is getting dominated. Murray State has been a pretty good launching pad for coaches.

Almost as good as us. Not quite though...

[Lloyd Braun]

Morant has made everyone forget Markus Howard is even in this game.


He is likely the best player not named Zion... it’s a shame he hasn’t gotten more press this year.

[Xville]

It won't get any better tonight. Wofford ain't losing to the Hall.

Villanova should beat Saint Mary's, but that might be the only game the Big East wins this season.

Disagree..think hall wins easily honestly. Wofford getting way too much love

[bjf123]

This really is embarrassing for Marquette and the Big East.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[scoscox]

Marquette is getting dominated. Murray State has been a pretty good launching pad for coaches.

Only if you consider mick a success story... although yea they are always fielding pretty good teams.

[scoscox]

The only coaches in the league I ever notice making adjustments are Travis, Willard, and jay wright. The rest never seem to have any amswers

[Xville]

The only coaches in the league I ever notice making adjustments are Travis, Willard, and jay wright. The rest never seem to have any amswers

Correct...big east needs an influx of better coaches quite honestly. Those three are good with Wright being elite...the rest, besides Ewing because it's too early to judge are completely mediocre in my opinion.

[GIMMFD]

Meh, Mike Brey had a few decent runs with Notre Dame recently. I certainly wouldn't be counting on him to replace him when the time comes, though.

I forgot where I read it, but they were basically saying when Coach K retires if it's within the next three years, that Duke would go hard after Jay Wright, since he fits the mold of being a classy coach, nurturing with having shown ability to get to the next level. Obviously Jay Wright can have whatever he wants in Philly, but if he ever had the allure of coaching a blue blood program, I think Duke would be the right fit for him.

I'd have to agree though Brey is the best out of the group, with Bobby Hurley having the possibility of being a pretty decent one for a while. I don't know why Wojo doesn't make adjustments, and kind of weird that Johnny Dawkins who was K's right hand man for a while didn't do so hot at Stanford, granted looks like he's turned UCF into a decent little team there, and Capel is a helluva recruiter but not sure about the X's and O's (see: when he had Blake Griffin at Oklahoma). I think all of K's coaching tree is average to above average. Wojo is only 42, but 5 years in he's gotta start improving.



Correct...big east needs an influx of better coaches quite honestly. Those three are good with Wright being elite...the rest, besides Ewing because it's too early to judge are completely mediocre in my opinion.

I don't really know how you go about that though (not trying to argue, thinking out loud), like there's probably a handful of ELITE coaches, right? And then others that are pretty good. If you're Providence, how do you replace Ed Cooley even though he burns out in the NCAA's often. Who's ever going to be able to fix DePaul? The one that's most frustrating is St. John's though, because if anybody that had any qualification for coaching would have made the talent on that team this year perform better.

[Xville]

I forgot where I read it, but they were basically saying when Coach K retires if it's within the next three years, that Duke would go hard after Jay Wright, since he fits the mold of being a classy coach, nurturing with having shown ability to get to the next level. Obviously Jay Wright can have whatever he wants in Philly, but if he ever had the allure of coaching a blue blood program, I think Duke would be the right fit for him.

I'd have to agree though Brey is the best out of the group, with Bobby Hurley having the possibility of being a pretty decent one for a while. I don't know why Wojo doesn't make adjustments, and kind of weird that Johnny Dawkins who was K's right hand man for a while didn't do so hot at Stanford, granted looks like he's turned UCF into a decent little team there, and Capel is a helluva recruiter but not sure about the X's and O's (see: when he had Blake Griffin at Oklahoma). I think all of K's coaching tree is average to above average. Wojo is only 42, but 5 years in he's gotta start improving.




I don't really know how you go about that though (not trying to argue, thinking out loud), like there's probably a handful of ELITE coaches, right? And then others that are pretty good. If you're Providence, how do you replace Ed Cooley even though he burns out in the NCAA's often. Who's ever going to be able to fix DePaul? The one that's most frustrating is St. John's though, because if anybody that had any qualification for coaching would have made the talent on that team this year perform better.

Yeah didn't say it would be easy :) . I think Ewing will be good, Steele, Wright and Willard. I think the BE is set there.

With Creighton's fan support, facilities, lack of surrounding competition outside of Nebraska etc should be much better than they are every year. Bye McDermott.

DePaul needs to stop recycling older guys and get someone young, hungry that may leave after 2-3 years if successful....its Chicago for Chrissakes...there is zero reason that program shouldn't be better especially with the new arena.

St. John's....get Mullin someone that knows how the heck to coach.

Marquette..no reason they can't get someone better than Wojo...guy is just a garbage coach. He's better than Mullin, but that's about it.

There is plenty of areas of opportunity, and it is certainly not going to be easy, but if this conference wants to continue to progress (and that means winning games in the tournament outside of Villanova), there has to be a change at quite a few places.

[Xavgrad08]

Villanova down two at half. Saint Mary’s has slowed the pace down.

[X-band '01]

That's saying something when you consider Villanova is one of the slower tempo teams in the NCAA this season.

[Lloyd Braun]

Nevada - Florida shaping up to be an interesting finish.

[Xville]

Nevada - Florida shaping up to be an interesting finish.


Refs are effing Nevada really bad. Nevada still with a chance though.

[Lloyd Braun]

Refs are effing Nevada really bad. Nevada still with a chance though.

Every possession they seem to get short end of the stick on a call

[bobbiemcgee]

The BE sucked this year.

[Xville]

Nova just gets shit done..I hope and do think Xavier can get to that level in the next few years.

[BandAid]

With Creighton's fan support, facilities, lack of surrounding competition outside of Nebraska etc should be much better than they are every year. Bye McDermott.

Disagree. The plains aren't exactly a hotbed of talent. McDermott had his son and two local kids who blossomed late (Patton and Khyri Thomas). And Lawrence, KS is only three hours away.

Yes, Creighton has ridiculous facilities and is the only show in town, but it's still difficult to get a kid to come to Omaha, Nebraska. Regular appearances in the NCAA is the most reasonable expectation for their program. Anything more would be icing. (I know Creighton fans believe otherwise, but they also believe Nebraska football should be in the playoff every year. They're delusional.)

[GoMuskies]

I dont think it would be that much more difficult to get a kid to Omaha than it would be to get a kid to Cincinnati.

[Xville]

I dont think it would be that much more difficult to get a kid to Omaha than it would be to get a kid to Cincinnati.

careful...there are people on here that think Cincinnati is the San Diego or LA of the midwest.

[xu82]

careful...there are people on here that think Cincinnati is the San Diego or LA of the midwest.

I think you’re confused. Aren’t we the Harvard of the Midwest?

[xu82]

I dont think it would be that much more difficult to get a kid to Omaha than it would be to get a kid to Cincinnati.


I’m not disagreeing, more curious. I’ve never been to Omaha, but it seems like it might be more isolated and farther from where many recruits might live. Life has a funny way of evolving, and travel is something that seems to be more prevalent in my future. Work (a lot) less, travel more. I’d rather go to Austin this weekend, but Omaha is a place I’d like to see at least once.

[X-band '01]

I’m not disagreeing, more curious. I’ve never been to Omaha, but it seems like it might be more isolated and farther from where many recruits might live. Life has a funny way of evolving, and travel is something that seems to be more prevalent in my future. Work (a lot) less, travel more. I’d rather go to Austin this weekend, but Omaha is a place I’d like to see at least once.

I'd really love to go there at least once for a College World Series game. That's always going to be their signature sports event.

[Xville]

gotta say im impressed by wofford so far...i may be eating some crow.

[GoMuskies]

I’m not disagreeing, more curious. I’ve never been to Omaha, but it seems like it might be more isolated and farther from where many recruits might live. Life has a funny way of evolving, and travel is something that seems to be more prevalent in my future. Work (a lot) less, travel more. I’d rather go to Austin this weekend, but Omaha is a place I’d like to see at least once.

It's a little further out there, sure, but once you've seen a few of them, these midwest river cities not named Chicago tend to be relatively interchangeable.

[Lloyd Braun]

gotta say im impressed by wofford so far...i may be eating some crow.

Analytics love Woffords offense but I am impressed with their D. Might fade as game goes on?

[xu82]

It's a little further out there, sure, but once you've seen a few of them these midwest river cities not named Chicago tend to be relatively interchangeable.

So.....Louisville is nothing special? That was apparent today!

[BandAid]

I’m not disagreeing, more curious. I’ve never been to Omaha, but it seems like it might be more isolated and farther from where many recruits might live. Life has a funny way of evolving, and travel is something that seems to be more prevalent in my future. Work (a lot) less, travel more. I’d rather go to Austin this weekend, but Omaha is a place I’d like to see at least once.

I love Omaha, but Cincinnati does have better restaurants and more going on. We do have a kickass zoo, the College World Series, and Olympic Swim Trials though. So that's nice.

Shoot, one of our biggest attractions is Warren Buffet. Seriously, I can't tell you how many friends I've had visit who simply wanted to drive by his house or go to Nebraska Furniture Mart because he once worked there.

Even more seriously, our new tourism slogan is, "It's not for everyone." We get it. We're not cool.

[xu82]

I love Omaha, but Cincinnati does have better restaurants and more going on. We do have a kickass zoo, the College World Series, and Olympic Swim Trials though. So that's nice.

Shoot, one of our biggest attractions is Warren Buffet. Seriously, I can't tell you how many friends I've had visit who simply wanted to drive by his house or go to Nebraska Furniture Mart because he once worked there.

Even more seriously, our new tourism slogan is, "It's not for everyone." We get it. We're not cool.


THAT made me laugh! Thanks!

[xu82]

If Wofford would just miss the next 10 shots, this might be less embarrassing.

[paulxu]

gotta say im impressed by wofford so far...i may be eating some crow.

I don't how this will turn out. But I watched every home game this year, and this team is deep and well coached.

As to Louisville...how do you go into Chapel Hill and win by 21, and then lose to Minnesota? Crazy.

[GoMuskies]

I don't how this will turn out. But I watched every home game this year, and this team is deep and well coached.

As to Louisville...how do you go into Chapel Hill and win by 21, and then lose to Minnesota? Crazy.

How do you lead Dook by 23 with 8 minutes to go...and then lose.

[GoMuskies]

I want whoever has the best shot at beating Kentucky to win, and that appears to be Wofford.

[xu82]

I want whoever has the best shot at beating Kentucky to win, and that appears to be Wofford.

Well, when you put it that way.......

Amen, brother!

[GIMMFD]

I had St. Mary's upset picked in my bracket.. lost by 4
I had Belmont.. lost by 2

Decided to try to give our other two Big East brethren some faith, Marquette is piss poor awful, and Seton Hall is just bad. I refuse to pick anybody other than us or Nova for like the next 50 years. Buncha idiots, at least I got Florida right. *sigh*

[Xville]

Marquette needs to get rid of wojo...doubt they will, but the guy is not a good coach.

[Xville]

I had St. Mary's upset picked in my bracket.. lost by 4
I had Belmont.. lost by 2

Decided to try to give our other two Big East brethren some faith, Marquette is piss poor awful, and Seton Hall is just bad. I refuse to pick anybody other than us or Nova for like the next 50 years. Buncha idiots, at least I got Florida right. *sigh*

I dunno....Willard can coach, and actually makes in game adjustments..they may lose tonight, but I still think they are a solid team.

[GoMuskies]

The Hall isn't dead yet.

[xu82]

The Hall isn't dead yet.

No, but the life support sign is concerning.

[Xville]

These refs want wofford to win really bad

[GoMuskies]

This foul call right before the shot clock violation is going to turn out to be a killer for SH. Calling my shot.

[Xville]

Myles Powell is a cold blooded killer

[xu82]

Wofford not showing great shot selection...

[Xville]

Seton hall is getting absolutely mugged every time they are on offense and refs just swallowing their whistle.

[Xville]

Powell and magee putting on a show.

[Xville]

If wofford closes this out, they better beat kentucky.

[Xville]

Great job wofford...I'll eat my crow. What a terrible year for the big east. We did all forsee this though at the beginning of the year. I just hope that next year, someone other than nova can do something.

[Grizzx12]

That got out of control fast. Wofford can definitely put up some points quickly

[KabeX]

That is a good freakin team. Not surprised at all on this result. We'll see what happens Sat. I didn't pick em to beat UK but hard not to root for them.

[Xville]

That got out of control fast. Wofford can definitely put up some points quickly

Hope they do that Saturday.

[GoMuskies]

They need to shoot threes at an insane rate Saturday. They’re capable.

[paulxu]

I heard one of Kentucky's starters may be out with an injury.

[bourbonman]

I heard one of Kentucky's starters may be out with an injury.

PJ Washington "sprained?" his ankle late in the TN game. He's not in a boot ... he's in a hard cast. They're not saying much, but a hard cast sounds like he's out for at least a of games.

[paulxu]

That Wofford game was a good indicator, I think, of where the game has gone.
Mid-range jump shots are almost history. The game is now 3's, dunks, and layups/fouls.

We've got to recruit some dead eye shooters like Magee if we're going to compete.

For comparison, here are 3 pt %'s for the year of the two teams:
Naji 26.9%
Scuggs 38.6%
Goodin 29.0%
Welage 42.6%

Wofford:
Magee 43.3%
Hoover 46.1%
Murphy 47.5%
Hollowell 41.6%

Maybe you don't get guys that shoot in the 40's. But you have to have guys that are consistently in the 30's.
Early in the season we had a few good games with a high percentage, but often shot ourselves in the foot with TO's.

Here's hoping we get the right mix for the Texas game.

[Xville]

That Wofford game was a good indicator, I think, of where the game has gone.
Mid-range jump shots are almost history. The game is now 3's, dunks, and layups/fouls.

We've got to recruit some dead eye shooters like Magee if we're going to compete.

For comparison, here are 3 pt %'s for the year of the two teams:
Naji 26.9%
Scuggs 38.6%
Goodin 29.0%
Welage 42.6%

Wofford:
Magee 43.3%
Hoover 46.1%
Murphy 47.5%
Hollowell 41.6%

Maybe you don't get guys that shoot in the 40's. But you have to have guys that are consistently in the 30's.
Early in the season we had a few good games with a high percentage, but often shot ourselves in the foot with TO's.

Here's hoping we get the right mix for the Texas game.

Agreed, we need shooters, but we also need to maintain the defensive effort X gave toward the end of the year. X had plenty of shooters when Tre, JP and Kaiser were around, but there was little defense being played. If X wants to get that final 2%, they need both, as well as 1 or 2 more players that can create their own shot.

What impressed me the most about Wofford last night was not their shooting (though it was impressive,) but their defense. They absolutely clamped down for a majority of the game last night, though admittedly outside of Myles, Seton Hall isn't the best offensive team in the world. I think the shooting will be there for Wofford tomorrow, but in order for them to win, they need to come with the same type of defensive intensity.

P.S. Please beat Kentucky.

[Mrs. Garrett]

Agreed, we need shooters, but we also need to maintain the defensive effort X gave toward the end of the year. X had plenty of shooters when Tre, JP and Kaiser were around, but there was little defense being played. If X wants to get that final 2%, they need both, as well as 1 or 2 more players that can create their own shot.

What impressed me the most about Wofford last night was not their shooting (though it was impressive,) but their defense. They absolutely clamped down for a majority of the game last night, though admittedly outside of Myles, Seton Hall isn't the best offensive team in the world. I think the shooting will be there for Wofford tomorrow, but in order for them to win, they need to come with the same type of defensive intensity.

P.S. Please beat Kentucky.

Wofford also took care of the basketball. IMO turnovers were a bigger problem than 3 point shooting for X this year.

[xavierj]

Wofford also took care of the basketball. IMO turnovers were a bigger problem than 3 point shooting for X this year.

I agree. Wofford is 46th in country turning the ball and Xavier 229.

[American X]

Yesterday was tepid, so expecting more excitement today.

Looking for that classic #12 Oregon vs. #13 UC Irvine matchup.

At least the Big East cannot embarrass itself today.

[noteggs]

What’s impressive about Wofford’s 3 point shooting is their ability to hit them off the dribble. Hitting them off the pass is one thing but those guys are pure shooters.

As for my bracket, should have listened to Paul’s advice vs jumping on Xville’s Seton Hall’s bandwagon. Just saying.

[X-band '01]

Yesterday was tepid, so expecting more excitement today.

Looking for that classic #12 Oregon vs. #13 UC Irvine matchup.

At least the Big East cannot embarrass itself today.

But all three remaining teams in the American can!

[Xville]

What’s impressive about Wofford’s 3 point shooting is their ability to hit them off the dribble. Hitting them off the pass is one thing but those guys are pure shooters.

As for my bracket, should have listened to Paul’s advice vs jumping on Xville’s Seton Hall’s bandwagon. Just saying.

Agreed and I apologize to the wofford terriers. What a terrible year for the big east.

[GoMuskies]

But all three remaining teams in the American can!

I sure hope not. I'm going to need all three of those teams to go ahead and win today (Houston losing wouldn't be so bad as there is no wager involved...and i guess I can handle losing some cash if it involves a UC loss; but Iowa is not very good).

[X-band '01]

UC is beating up on Iowa early on, so their inevitable Round 2 exit is well underway.

[GoMuskies]

UC gave up all but one point of their lead. Would be pretty amazing if they managed to blow big leads and lose two years in a row. It wouldn't be as epic as last year's collapse, but it would be pretty bad.

[Xville]

This would be pretty pathetic of UC if they end up losing this one. Essentially a home game against a team that was falling apart down the stretch.

[GoMuskies]

UC is done. THAT, is a choke job.

[Xville]

I'm excited to hear Mick's press conference...I bet he talks about toughness and ripping jerseys of his players haha. Gawd my bracket is crap.

[fellahmuskie]

I have Iowa in the sweet 16. Not sure why I took them over TN, but I felt pretty good about Mick choking.

[American X]

Is there some Civil War grudge between Oklahoma and Mississippi? Good lord.

[X-band '01]

UC-Irvine and K-State should be fun to watch in the 2nd half.

[Strange Brew]

UC-Irvine and K-State should be fun to watch in the 2nd half.

As fun to watch as BYU?

[Xville]

It's extremely early, but what does Virginia do if it happens again? Guys on that team have to be griping that basketball pretty tight right now.

[chico]

Think UCLA is still after Cronin?

[Xville]

Think UCLA is still after Cronin?

They should just try and get Howland back...ha

[Xville]

Oh the anteaters!

[scoscox]

UC Irvine, UC, and maybe Gardner-Webb are really taking heat off of the big east

[X-band '01]

Florida State will be playing with heavy hearts tomorrow - they learned after yesterday's that Phil Cofer's father died after battling a long illness.

[paulxu]

These things aren't helping my bracket. I did have Iowa though.

[GIMMFD]

https://twitter.com/NoEscalators/status/1109168045669445632 - UCONN 4 Big East in my books.

I had Iowa as well, was incredibly close to changing to UC Irvine as they were on a 15 game winning streak last minute once the Dean injury news came out, but decided a team that returned a lot from the Elite 8 would have won at least one.. silly me. But the rest of the day is going pretty solid, big turn around from day one lmfao.

[X-band '01]

North Dakota State just might keep the streak alive of at least one First Four team winning a game in the Round of 64.

[whopper]

Ethan Happ career over(as well as Iverson and Charles Thomas who played in the Xavier Wisconsin game). Must be very emotional for them as the got rolled by Oregon in second half. Despite his numbers hard to see Happ as a next level player but I wish him well. I feel old as no more players from the 15-16 will be playing next year unless grad transfer.

[Xville]

Eff Ohio state. Seeing greg Oden on their sideline makes me hate them even more.

[GIMMFD]

Yesterday was tepid, so expecting more excitement today.

Looking for that classic #12 Oregon vs. #13 UC Irvine matchup.

At least the Big East cannot embarrass itself today.

Wished it into existence, pretty shocked by the Liberty result as well, not so much about the UC Irvine one. I'm going to need Oregon to take care of business for my bracket's sake however. They absolutely rolled Wisconsin in the second half, I wasn't expecting that, also hate myself for changing from Washington to Utah State 10 minutes before brackets got locked. None of the ACC 1 seeds looked good in the first half today, really was thinking we might see Virginia go down AGAIN.

Wofford/Kentucky tomorrow, should be pretty interesting if Wofford can knock in threes at a high clip. That Fletcher McGee guy is pretty damn fun to watch, would also love to see Nova knock off Purdue just because I want at least one of the Big East teams to get into the Sweet 16.

[American X]

Looking for that classic #12 Oregon vs. #13 UC Irvine matchup.

I did not get everything right, but ^^^^^^^^, just saying.

[X-band '01]

They almost blew it in regulation, but LSU and Tremont Waters hit a game-winner for this year's first ticket into the Sweet 16.

[GoMuskies]

Wofford competitive so far. Hopefully Magee can get some open looks and get hot.

[scoscox]

In NIT news, UNCG is getting slaughtered by lipscomb. not a good look for the uncg should've been in the tourney crowd

[GoMuskies]

I'm sure Kentucky has something to do with it, but it's too bad Magee picked today for the worst game of his career.

[scoscox]

The rest of the team played well enough to win. if magee even has a decent game they win this.

[X-band '01]

Wofford as a team shot 5-for-12 from behind the arc in the 1st half, but not nearly as well in the 2nd half.

Still, they are not dead yet.

[GoMuskies]

They’ve been super shitty and still might win.

[xufan2020]

Is it time to admit Leonard Hamilton has found a good formula and is a solid coach?

[XUOWNSUC]

Is it time to admit Leonard Hamilton has found a good formula and is a solid coach?

Florida State is basically the same team that we lost to last year right? Angola-Rodas is gone but I think everybody else returned. Didn't know it at the time, but we kinda got screwed with that draw. Thing is, we would have won if Nagi wasn't hurt.

[GoMuskies]

This Clarke dude from Gonzaga is absurd.

[GoMuskies]

Is it time to admit Leonard Hamilton has found a good formula and is a solid coach?

Sure, and also this is exactly what I expected Marquette to do to Murray State. Wojo sucks.

[GoMuskies]

Villanova playing like a 2019 Big East team early on.

[xudash]

Villanova playing like a 2019 Big East team early on.

I think they're saying, "who is this Edwards of whom you speak?"

How would you like to face that barrage out of the gate.

[GoMuskies]

I think they're saying, "who is this Edwards of whom you speak?"

How would you like to face that barrage out of the gate.

Now they know how we felt every time we played them the last 5 years!

[paulxu]

Feel bad for Fletcher Magee. Hell of a kid. Not the right night to go ice cold.

Headlines saying Kentucky bottled up Magee. Not true. He had some good looks. Shame.

[GoMuskies]

He definitely had some looks. Probably not a coincidence that he was something like 0-21 from 3 combined against Kentucky and Kansas, though.

[bjf123]

Villanova playing like a 2019 Big East team early on.

They’re getting embarrassed.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[GoMuskies]

Night, night Big East. See you next year.

[scoscox]

shades of the michigan game. purdue is too big for them and they have no one who can check carsen edwards

[GoMuskies]

Purdue can win by 50 if they feel like it.

[xudash]

Now they know how we felt every time we played them the last 5 years!

Yes. Yes, that is very true.

[xufan2020]

Please Nova get it within 20.

[GoMuskies]

Auburn looked like the Warriors for 7 minutes.

[scoscox]

pisses me off we lost to nova. if naji was healthy we win that game going away.

[Xville]

I know our team isnt in this tourney so maybe a little biased but does anyone else feel like this has been one of the absolute worst tourneys overall? Full of completely boring ass games, and upsets that everyone felt were going to happen...in my opinion, its been a complete snoozefest.

[GoMuskies]

I think the first two days were pretty good. Today has been atrocious.

[xavierj]

I know our team isnt in this tourney so maybe a little biased but does anyone else feel like this has been one of the absolute worst tourneys overall? Full of completely boring ass games, and upsets that everyone felt were going to happen...in my opinion, its been a complete snoozefest.

I agree. Keep waiting for a well played back and forth game and it doesn’t really happen. The closer games seem like bad teams that can’t do anything good on either side or the games are lopsided and over by halftime.

[chico]

This really has been a bad day. And to add insult to injury Matt Painter just boatraced Jay Wright. Matt Painter. That Nova bet was a real winner.

[GIMMFD]

I know our team isnt in this tourney so maybe a little biased but does anyone else feel like this has been one of the absolute worst tourneys overall? Full of completely boring ass games, and upsets that everyone felt were going to happen...in my opinion, its been a complete snoozefest.

I think this is the first time in a long time I felt they got the seeding pretty right, and I think Vegas agreed, I rather them not get the seeding right for sure pure chaos, missed majority of the games today due to studying, and kind of glad I did, just not good all around.

[Xville]

Not feeling too great about having tn in my final four right now

[X-band '01]

Not feeling too great about having tn in my final four right now

Ditto. I'm starting to wonder how many lives this Iowa team has this season. Look at some of the games they've won in the closing seconds this year.

[scoscox]

i don't understand why zion williamson is not given the ball every duke possession. i don't get it

[Xville]

Well, the tournament just got infinitely more exciting.

[bobbiemcgee]

Could have used Taco on that last play.

[Nigel Tufnel]

Zion with an offensive foul, Barrett with a push in the back and if Duke player was driving on that last UCF possession, 100% guarantee that would have been called a foul. I’ve seen it for the last 20+ years. It’s inevitable. If I was a UCF fan, I’d be raging right now.

[GoMuskies]

i don't understand why zion williamson is not given the ball every duke possession. i don't get it

Yeah, the rest of the team kinda blows.

[xudash]

How about those for rim outs.

March Madness. March Madness.

[Xville]

I'm so glad I'm not a ucf fan.

[scoscox]

Yeah, the rest of the team kinda blows.

he's an exponentially better option than anyone else on the floor at any time. it's not even close

[scoscox]

Zion with an offensive foul, Barrett with a push in the back and if Duke player was driving on that last UCF possession, 100% guarantee that would have been called a foul. I’ve seen it for the last 20+ years. It’s inevitable. If I was a UCF fan, I’d be raging right now.

i agree, but they had their chances. that botched alley oop will live with them forever and just unlucky on those last two shots

[Nigel Tufnel]

i agree, but they had their chances. that botched alley oop will live with them forever and just unlucky on those last two shots

Agreed. Just wish the refs would call a fair Duke game. The last missed call on the UCF drive wasn’t bad...but the Zion charge (which led to Fall fouling out) and the Barrett push were calls that you see every game except against Duke in the tourney. I’m not bitter. I have Duke winning it all in my bracket...but Duke gets the most favorable whistles of any team in the tourney...and it’s not really close.

[noteggs]

I'm so glad I'm not a ucf fan.

Makes me feel better about X-UT refs. Not really but telling myself.

[Xville]

Gonzaga getting some duke calls in this game...they really have the flop down.

[Xville]

Gonzaga is effing annoying

[Lloyd Braun]

Purdue - Tennessee is a fun game. Vols getting boned quite a bit

[Xavgrad08]

Matt Painter going to the elite eight for the first time in his career.

[Lloyd Braun]

This game is dirty. Pretty obvious at this point...

[Xville]

Really hope that Virginia and their style of play that sets basketball back about 40 years get rolled tonight.

[KabeX]

So much for my Michigan beating the Zags and losing to VA in the Final. My gawd they make us look like a 3 point shooting machine.

[Xville]

So much for my Michigan beating the Zags and losing to VA in the Final. My gawd they make us look like a 3 point shooting machine.

If beard wins Saturday, tech is really going to have to open up the checkbook. 3 mil is not enough for that guy.

Oh and no worries...if oregon wins I'll have gone 0-4 in my bracket tonight. I first had tech in the final four but then stupidly scratched that and picked them to lose to buffalo. Dumb dumb dumb

[KabeX]

Yeah I've made that mistake. NEVER EVER change your first instinct. I agree Beard can pretty much write his own comp plan. Wonder where his next stop will be ...

[xudash]

The magic and the misery of the NCAAT.

For some reason, I thought FSU was going to mop the floor with Gonzaga last night. The lesson there: always remember that Leonard Hamilton is FSU's coach. He'll find a way to not find the way.

Texas Tech. Texas Tech! It's not that I'm surprised they made it this far, it's what they did last night in almost humiliating Michigan. At the very least, it got Michigan fans' minds off last year's Ohio State football game. When I first tuned into the game, almost 7 minutes had expired in the first half. The score was tied 4 to 4. 4 to 4!

As so many have noted around here: it's a lot to do with match-ups. Match-ups and who is hot and who is not in a particular game.

You want to become the national champion. Okay. Then impose your will on the other team each and every game. Do that 6 times. Hope for a sprinkling of pixie dust along the way to keep your hot shooters hot and the refs reasonable with your key personnel (e.g. Macura). And you just might end up hoisting the trophy.

[JTG]

Amazed that the officials actually did their jobs instead of swallowing their whistles in the Tenn Purdue game. Unheard of to call a defensive foul with 1.6 sec left in the game.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

The magic and the misery of the NCAAT.

For some reason, I thought FSU was going to mop the floor with Gonzaga last night. The lesson there: always remember that Leonard Hamilton is FSU's coach. He'll find a way to not find the way.

Texas Tech. Texas Tech! It's not that I'm surprised they made it this far, it's what they did last night in almost humiliating Michigan. At the very least, it got Michigan fans' minds off last year's Ohio State football game. When I first tuned into the game, almost 7 minutes had expired in the first half. The score was tied 4 to 4. 4 to 4!

As so many have noted around here: it's a lot to do with match-ups. Match-ups and who is hot and who is not in a particular game.

You want to become the national champion. Okay. Then impose your will on the other team each and every game. Do that 6 times. Hope for a sprinkling of pixie dust along the way to keep your hot shooters hot and the refs reasonable with your key personnel (e.g. Macura). And you just might end up hoisting the trophy.

We got a lot of Pixie dust in the regular season last year (ETSU, Gtown, Creighton). Wished we could've cashed that in in the tournament instead. Lot of things go wrong against FSU and we still should've won. Naji couldn't move at all, Tre with possibly his worst game of his senior season, JP fouling out on some horrendous calls. Think we beat Tillie-less Gonzaga and make our first final four. 2015-2016 was still the better team, and we get by wisconsin I think we roll to the F4 that year too.

Need to find a way these next few years to make our own luck.

[fellahmuskie]

Somehow I got all four elite 8 teams right last night. That never happens. I fully expect to bomb today. But figures the year I don't care at all about the tourney and don't even watch the games is when I would pick a decent bracket.

[Xville]

We got a lot of Pixie dust in the regular season last year (ETSU, Gtown, Creighton). Wished we could've cashed that in in the tournament instead. Lot of things go wrong against FSU and we still should've won. Naji couldn't move at all, Tre with possibly his worst game of his senior season, JP fouling out on some horrendous calls. Think we beat Tillie-less Gonzaga and make our first final four. 2015-2016 was still the better team, and we get by wisconsin I think we roll to the F4 that year too.

Need to find a way these next few years to make our own luck.

I don't think we roll to a final four...I think we get rolled by North Carolina in the Elite Eight game.

Although last year's team I don't believe was better than 16, the path was much easier in my opinion.

[MITTENMUSKIE16]

I don't think we roll to a final four...I think we get rolled by North Carolina in the Elite Eight game.

Although last year's team I don't believe was better than 16, the path was much easier in my opinion.

You're correct that the path was easier last year. I don't think we roll past Carolina in 16, but I do think we beat them that year.