Game Thread: Xavier v. Siena (November 8, 2019) Non-Conference

[Muskie]

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/kBAAAOSwqfNXkU44/s-l300.jpg


Xavier University Musketeers (1-0,0-0) vs. Siena Saints (1-0,0-0)
Friday, November 8, 2019 at 7:00 p.m.
Cintas Center, Cincinnati

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



Television: FSN



Xavier Radio: Xavier Gameday App (available in your phone's app store)
55KRC-AM, including via iHeart Radio, TuneIn and via Sirius (134), XM (202) and Internet (965) with play-by-play from XU Hall of Famer and former Musketeer standout Joe Sunderman ('79). Analysis will be provided by Xavier Hall of Famer and XU all-time leading scorer Byron Larkin ('88).






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

______

Xavier Defeated Jacksonville to improve to 1-0 on the season. (Link (https://goxavier.com/news/2019/11/5/mens-basketball-musketeers-win-season-opener-in-19-point-victory-over-jacksonville.aspx))
Siena Defeated American University to start the season 1-0. (Link (https://sienasaints.com/news/2019/11/5/mens-basketball-keep-carm-and-carry-on.aspx))

Siena Media:
Times Union: Defensive Minded Xavier Awaits Sienna (Link (https://www.timesunion.com/sports/article/Defensive-minded-Xavier-awaits-Siena-men-s-14817334.php))
Sienna Athletics Homepage (Link (https://sienasaints.com/sports/mens-basketball))
Sienna on Twitter (Link (http://@SienaSaints))


PUBLIC PARKING LOTS
There will now be a $10 charge per game for all public parking lots in University Station, near Listermann's Brewery, and off Woodburn Ave. behind Alumni Center. These lots will accept cash only. For the location of these public lots, please view the
Parking Map here. (PDF) (https://goxavier.com/documents/2019/8/26//2019_Cintas_Center_Parking_Map.pdf?id=20150)
Public lots are dark gray and marked with a 'P.'

SMOKE FREE CAMPUS
As of July 1, 2019, the use of any tobacco product and/or nicotine delivery system in any form, excluding FDA approved cessation medications, is prohibited in all Xavier University facilities and on all Xavier University owned or leased property, including Cintas Center. As a result, fans will no longer be allowed to smoke outside on the plaza before, during and after games.

SHUTTLE ROUTES
Due to construction taking place at University Station that will prevent traffic passing through the parking lot between the HUB and University Station, the golf cart shuttle routes have been adjusted for the upcoming season. Fans are encouraged to review the shuttle map
online here (PDF) (https://goxavier.com/documents/2019/10/24//CintasShuttleMap2019.pdf?id=21296)

[XUMIOH12]

why is Siena spelled with two Ns all over this haha

[Muskie]

why is Siena spelled with two Ns all over this haha
Apparently the plugin spell check for this site thinks it has two N's. I think I fixed them all.

[GoMuskies]

X -20

[Blue Blooded-05]

Siena’s non-conference schedule is interesting:

Xavier
Harvard
Yale
Colgate
Cal Poly
Bucknell

Those were the exact schools that offered me full ride academic scholarships when I was in high school!

[XU_Lou]

Good grief - Scruggs suffered a knee injury on Tue. Anyone know anything about this? Questionable tonight: https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/xaviersports/2019/11/08/xaviers-paul-scruggs-game-time-decision-friday-against-siena/2528554001/

[GIMMFD]

Good grief - Scruggs suffered a knee injury on Tue. Anyone know anything about this? Questionable tonight: https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/xaviersports/2019/11/08/xaviers-paul-scruggs-game-time-decision-friday-against-siena/2528554001/

Hmm didn't see anything about it, but if it's only questionable and not completely out for tonight, that's technically a good sign right? At least it's nothing that'll keep him out for weeks, should be a tougher test than Jacksonville, but still think we handle Siena.

[bobbiemcgee]

The game is on AT&T SportsNet out here - dish 414 - odd- never seen an X game on this channel.

Also sez the game starts @ 7 MST which can't be right. Looks like I'll be searching all over for it.

[Jesuit4Life]

TV clearances (https://goxavier.com/documents/2019/11/7//Big_East_Basketball_Siena_at_Xavier.pdf):
FOX SPORTS ARIZONA
FOX SPORTS FLORIDA (Non Magic)
FOX SPORTS MIDWEST (IA PLUS, KS, KC & NE)
FOX SPORTS NORTH (PLUS)
FOX SPORTS OHIO (PLUS)
FOX SPORTS SOUTHEAST (Non Hawks & Grizzlies)
FOX SPORTS SOUTHWEST (Spurs & Rockets)
FOX SPORTS SOUTHWEST (Mavs, Grizzlies & Pelicans PLUS)
FOX SPORTS WEST
FOX SPORTS WISCONSIN (PLUS)
MASN 2
YES
YURVIEW NEW ENGLAND

Game is on Fox Sports Ohio PLUS (alternate channel) because of the Cavs game.
You can find your channel number here: https://www.foxsports.com/ohio/story/fox-sports-ohio-channel-finder-121113
Gameday Guide: https://twitter.com/XavierMBB/status/1192628767648292867


The game is on AT&T SportsNet out here - dish 414 - odd- never seen an X game on this channel.

Also sez the game starts @ 7 MST which can't be right. Looks like I'll be searching all over for it.
It looks like it's only being shown on a delay on AT&T SportsNet, unfortunately.

[Jesuit4Life]

Let's Go X

[Lloyd Braun]

XM 207 for those on satellite

[Xville]

No scruggs tonight?? Disciplinary or injury?

[Jesuit4Life]

No scruggs tonight?? Disciplinary or injury?Injury
https://twitter.com/slrussell/status/1192944712220434434

Sent from my Pixel 3 using Tapatalk

[drudy23]

Another fantastic start.

The Schrand experiment is very puzzling.

I really, really hope we're not trying to take the Cronin angle in the Steele era.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Too many TOs and poor shooting.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Ok so I was off the board most of offseason until right before the game Tuesday. Maybe I missed it, but whats the story with Schrand starting? Would love some light shed on that.

Thanks!

[xu82]

Between AT&T and DTV I get thousands of channels, but I’m one channel short, apparently. I think I have a replay set to record. Streaming has never gone well for me....

GRRRRRR!

[drudy23]

Ok so I was off the board most of offseason until right before the game Tuesday. Maybe I missed it, but whats the story with Schrand starting? Would love some light shed on that.

Thanks!

It's mystery.

PS - I'm liking me some Freemantle.

[D-West & PO-Z]

It's mystery.

PS - I'm liking me some Freemantle.

None of the beat writers have asked Steele about the walk on starting??? Crazy it hasnt been addressed.

[drudy23]

None of the beat writers have asked Steele about the walk on starting??? Crazy it hasnt been addressed.

They may have, but I haven't read anything.

Most have assumed he brings it on defense in practice and Steele is trying to establish "a defensive identity" and is proving a point. As I mentioned, that seems like a Croninesque approach.

[Smooth]

None of the beat writers have asked Steele about the walk on starting??? Crazy it hasnt been addressed.

There is an article on The Athletic about it but I haven't read it yet.

[Smooth]

If they start paying college players, schools should fine them for missed free throws.

[drudy23]

Naji so damn out on control. Tries to do everything himself.

[drudy23]

Hopefully we've settled in.

[drudy23]

If he wants to prove a point on D, start Bryce Moore. Best on the ball defender we have by far.

Creates turnovers which makes it easier for us to score.

[letskeepitreal]

What’s happened to Tandy?

[drudy23]

What’s happened to Tandy?

Hurt - out a couple weeks.

[xudash]

Has the second-half been about superior defense on our part or are they tired and generally suck?

[drudy23]

I think defense has been pretty solid. Hard to tell if Siena is any good. They're probably decent.

Just as I type this we give up three easy buckets on 3 straight possessions.

Going to be alot of work to get the offense to a cohesive unit. Light years ahead on the defensive end.

[IM4X]

If Naji could just always play smart, he would be a legit player of the year contender - not just an also ran. When he is in his zone... wow!!!

[drudy23]

If Naji could just always play smart, he would be a legit player of the year contender - not just an also ran. When he is in his zone... wow!!!

Yes - he can be the best and most frustrating player on the floor at the same time.

I hope someone can elevate to take some of the pressure off of him on the offensive end. Scruggs will, but a 3rd option will make him even more dangerous.

[IM4X]

Yes - he can be the best and most frustrating player on the floor at the same time.

I hope someone can elevate to take some of the pressure off of him on the offensive end. Scruggs will, but a 3rd option will make him even more dangerous.

I agree.

I am liking how some of the new players are progressing. Looks like a step up across the board. The team might be able to lean on Moore for more 3s too

[scoscox]

I love Moore. Looks like the second coming of stanley burrell

[Jesuit4Life]

If you missed the game, there are a few replays scheduled - including Fox Sports Ohio on Saturday at 6:30PM and Sunday at 12AM and 12PM.
https://goxavier.com/documents/2019/11/7//Big_East_Basketball_Siena_at_Xavier.pdf

[xu82]

I love Moore. Looks like the second coming of stanley burrell

Scoring Stanley or defense Stanley?

(I could not see the game tonight.)

[drudy23]

Defense Stanley.

Moore is a great on the ball defender. He's big, strong and relentless. He creates easy opportunities with turnovers (which we will need as we struggle to find some offensive flow). I'd put him in the starting line-up over Schrand (still not sure what that's all about).

Moore can shoot a little bit too.

[scoscox]

Scoring Stanley or defense Stanley?

(I could not see the game tonight.)

Defense and bodybuilder stanley. He's a good shooter and has a good handle and seems capable of getting to the rack, but not as much of a threat as stan to score. Always making the right play though. Just the kinda guy you want on your team

[D-West & PO-Z]

Naji is at his best when he is driving and facilitating. If he focuses on that the majority of the time we will be really good. I hope he really picks his spots shooting from outside. He should almost never take 7 3's in a game like he did tonight.

[xukeith]

None of the beat writers have asked Steele about the walk on starting??? Crazy it hasnt been addressed.
Steele was asked about it after both the INDY exhibition and the opening game. He doesn't do anything stupid and he is always in the right places, says Steele.
If Scruggs plays, he has way more talent but Schrand will not screw tons of plays up.
Great win. Defense, plus offense of Jones and Marshall.
Carter struggled a lot and I hope he will gain confidence. He is not a banger. He drives to the basket a lot and has yet to show any shot outside 5 feet. He needs to muscle up more because the forwards in BE play are so strong. .

[X Factor]

Steele was asked about it after both the INDY exhibition and the opening game. He doesn't do anything stupid and he is always in the right places, says Steele.
If Scruggs plays, he has way more talent but Schrand will not screw tons of plays up.
Great win. Defense, plus offense of Jones and Marshall.
Carter struggled a lot and I hope he will gain confidence. He is not a banger. He drives to the basket a lot and has yet to show any shot outside 5 feet. He needs to muscle up more because the forwards in BE play are so strong. .

I'm sorry, but Schrand is not a Xavier level player. Not even close. Once KyKy is fully healthy, I doubt Schrand sees the court again unless it's a blowout.

This team sucks at shooting. We shoot awful at home. What are they going to do on the road?

Naji needs to calm the heck down. Goodin hasn't been very good these first two games. Tyrique is a beast.

I like Freemantle and Bishop. Bishop has a very nice looking stroke.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I'm sorry, but Schrand is not a Xavier level player. Not even close. Once KyKy is fully healthy, I doubt Schrand sees the court again unless it's a blowout.

Agreed. Its cute now but he is going to screw up when guarded and having to guard better competition.

I am sure Steele is sending a message, one that is hopefully received quickly as he wont have the luxury of doing so pretty soon.

[xukeith]

Andy Taylor wasn't a Xavier player either but he played and contributed in a loss to Marquette in the NCAA Tourney in Cleveland.
Steele is playing a lot of guys now but soon, he will be playing 8. (Core 4, Carter, Moore, Freemantle, and Bishop)

[scoscox]

Naji is at his best when he is driving and facilitating. If he focuses on that the majority of the time we will be really good. I hope he really picks his spots shooting from outside. He should almost never take 7 3's in a game like he did tonight.

Naji was taking 7ish threes a game in that 6 game winning streak last year. I know what you're trying to say, but Naji did it with great success during our best stretch last year

[scoscox]

Agreed. Its cute now but he is going to screw up when guarded and having to guard better competition.

I am sure Steele is sending a message, one that is hopefully received quickly as he wont have the luxury of doing so pretty soon.

Kyky and Scruggs are hurt and Bishop and Moore are new. I don't think he's planning on Schrand being a part of the rotation

[IM4X]

Naji is at his best when he is driving and facilitating. If he focuses on that the majority of the time we will be really good. I hope he really picks his spots shooting from outside. He should almost never take 7 3's in a game like he did tonight.

You know that... I know that...the coaches know that... the whole world knows that...except Naji. IÂ’m pretty sure he still believes he’s the best 3 point shooter on the team and that his shots will (as he said after the previous game) eventually start dropping.

Don’t know if anyone pointed it out yet: Naji was 1-7 today from 3 and 0-4 against Jacksonville... so he is shooting 1-11 (or less than 10%) from 3 through his first two games.

Steele said it best yesterday that the players will get a lot better shooting 3s when they start being much more selective with the shots they take. I just don’t get the disconnect with Marshall. Play smart every minute on the court and stick to what he does best and Naji will be a superstar - He should never shoot more than 4 threes in a game (unless he is sinking most of them) and Steele needs to get on him more not just about his 3s, but those lazy and careless passes early in the game.

Fix those things and he is as good as almost any player (just not from 3).

[D-West & PO-Z]

Naji was taking 7ish threes a game in that 6 game winning streak last year. I know what you're trying to say, but Naji did it with great success during our best stretch last year

Yeah he got hot for a stretch. But he was 27% for the season.

And the last 3 games of last season he was 5/26, including 1/12 last two games.

He will have a string where he gets hot again probably but three point shooting should not be a major staple in his game imo. Driving and facilitating. He was great at both of those today.

[IM4X]

Naji was taking 7ish threes a game in that 6 game winning streak last year. I know what you're trying to say, but Naji did it with great success during our best stretch last year

if he is taking good shots (which hasn’t been often this year) and he is feeling it (hitting them) then by all means... have at it. But he’s only made 1 of the 11 3s he’s taken. He’s taken some bad shot and then (possibly through frustration) followed it up with some more bad shots.

His shots will start dropping, but not just by shooting more.

[scoscox]

Yeah he got hot for a stretch. But he was 27% for the season.

And the last 3 games of last season he was 5/26, including 1/12 last two games.

He will have a string where he gets hot again probably but three point shooting should not be a major staple in his game imo. Driving and facilitating. He was great at both of those today.

well he got hurt and two of those games were at the further distance too. i think he's adjusting to the deeper line. i mostly agree with you that his game is about slashing, but it's also true that some of our best wins were on the back of naji shooting 7+ threes

[scoscox]

if he is taking good shots (which hasn’t been often this year) and he is feeling it (hitting them) then by all means... have at it. But he’s only made 1 of the 11 3s he’s taken. He’s taken some bad shot and then (possibly through frustration) followed it up with some more bad shots.

His shots will start dropping, but not just by shooting more.

i agree. i think some of it is adjusting to the deeper line. he definitely looks uncomfortable from further out.

[D-West & PO-Z]

well he got hurt and two of those games were at the further distance too. i think he's adjusting to the deeper line. i mostly agree with you that his game is about slashing, but it's also true that some of our best wins were on the back of naji shooting 7+ threes

The last two I was referencing were regular season, not NIT.

The two NIT games was 4/12.

He can hit them when he is being more selective for sure. And there were times last year where we literally had to have Naji take over games to win. That wont be the case this year, at least not to the extent it was last year. We have a lot more players and depth. I still dont think most games Naji should be taking 7 threes a game.

[IM4X]

i agree. i think some of it is adjusting to the deeper line. he definitely looks uncomfortable from further out.

Yes. I believe that is part of it. He does not look comfortable at all. Like watching a world renowned French chef trying to serve up some Texas Chili. Just stick to what makes you special.

[Xville]

Kyky injured, carter coming back from injury, scruggs injured and still won by almost 20. I'll take it.

Missouri is going to be a real test...I expect x to win but think it will be a tight game whole way thru.

[Final4]

Don't remember the exact details but I'm thinking there was 5 or 6 minutes left in the first half. Q brought the ball down the floor and, without making a pass, pulled up three feet behind the line, early in the shot clock, and launched a 3 (which he of course missed). Travis immediately pulled him. I saw Scruggs walk down the bench and say something to Q...….I'm assuming encouragement. He didn't get back in the first half. I'm trying to recall if Q took any 3 point attempts in the 2nd half.

[Xville]

Don't remember the exact details but I'm thinking there was 5 or 6 minutes left in the first half. Q brought the ball down the floor and, without making a pass, pulled up three feet behind the line, early in the shot clock, and launched a 3 (which he of course missed). Travis immediately pulled him. I saw Scruggs walk down the bench and say something to Q...….I'm assuming encouragement. He didn't get back in the first half. I'm trying to recall if Q took any 3 point attempts in the 2nd half.

Glad to hear of steeles reaction to this. Annoyed that as a senior, q still makes these boneheaded selfish decisions.

[XUGRAD80]

It seems that 99% of what is posted here postgame is about the offense. No doubt that Marshall is not making enough 3 pointers and should probably be taking less of them.

But I’m going to complement the defense. There was only 1-2 times during the whole game where we saw a Siena player shoot a wide open shot. If X keeps playing defense like this they are going to be in every game the whole year, and are going to win the vast majority of them. I’m also encouraged with the depth. Having the depth to play 8-10 players and not have a significant drop off will give X the ability to apply that defensive pressure throughout a whole game and still allow key players to get some rest. Finally, playing good defense, and limiting the points allowed means that X doesn’t have to be perfect on offense in order to win. A refreshing change from some of the recent past teams where the emphasis seemed to be on just out scoring the opposition by playing offense and defense be damned.

[XUGRAD80]

Glad to hear of steeles reaction to this. Annoyed that as a senior, q still makes these boneheaded selfish decisions.

He played 27 minutes, took only two 3 point shots, (made 1), had 3 assists, 1 steal, and 1 turnover. Didn’t shoot anything but layups the 2nd half.....real selfish, right?

[UCGRAD4X]

"He doesn't do anything stupid...." Not exactly a ringing endorsement but I think describes Schrand pretty well. Obviously not in for offense. Only Marshall, Quentin and Bishop logged more minutes. But his Efficiency was -1 (ouch) and Usage was 10.6 (Bishops was 12.5 and Quentin 14.2). He was even guarding Pickett for a time in the second half when he went cold. I only remember one play where I said that was stupid (sorry coach).

[UCGRAD4X]

As far a Naji is concerned, I think (as has been speculated) that as soon as the dust settles and we have our best offensive team on the floor (without any drop off in defense...(presumably, per coaches' early returns) he will not need to shoot so much from the outside because the teams will be less inclined to pack it in.

I wonder how much he thinks he needs to develop an outside shot to be a better BE player of distinction, more than he already is (MVP), and, just perhaps, a better NBA prospect.

[bleedXblue]

IMHO, this team has enough talent and depth to compete for a BE title. It's Achilles heel is its basketball IQ and making poor decisions at times. Clean that up some, and you will have a really good chance at having a great year.

[Muskeagle]

If you missed the game, there are a few replays scheduled - including Fox Sports Ohio on Saturday at 6:30PM and Sunday at 12AM and 12PM.
https://goxavier.com/documents/2019/11/7//Big_East_Basketball_Siena_at_Xavier.pdf

Thanks for the info...looked for it, but gave up after noon on Saturday....thinking it would be all live sports at that point. Got it set to record now. THANKS!

[JTG]

IMHO, this team has enough talent and depth to compete for a BE title. It's Achilles heel is its basketball IQ and making poor decisions at times. Clean that up some, and you will have a really good chance at having a great year.

As has been the case for some time, X continues to recruit great athletes with virtually no bball IQ. It's painful to watch. The defense is good, but it's only a matter of time before they are outsmarted by a decent shooting , bball saavy team.I was at the game last night. It was like watching a CYO game.

[XUGRAD80]

well yes.....I don't expect them to go undefeated, does anyone?

They will run into a hot shooting team somewhere down the line, but if they keep playing defense like they have shown themselves capable of doing, the chances of that happening often will be very slim. They may have 4 starters back, but beyond that almost everyone is new. it will take some time for this group to jell together completely, but I'm far more encouraged at this point then I was at anytime last year.

[X-man]

Kyky injured, carter coming back from injury, scruggs injured and still won by almost 20. I'll take it.

Missouri is going to be a real test...I expect x to win but think it will be a tight game whole way thru.

If the pundits are to be believed, Missouri State (next Friday night) is the best team in Missouri. That may be the tougher test next week.

[xukeith]

As has been the case for some time, X continues to recruit great athletes with virtually no bball IQ. It's painful to watch. The defense is good, but it's only a matter of time before they are outsmarted by a decent shooting , bball saavy team.I was at the game last night. It was like watching a CYO game.

The same can be said about 90% of top 40 teams. These are young adults, not paid professionals. Nobody will be playing in the NBA next year coming from X .

However, they are trying to be in sync with each other. SEVEN brand new players (5 are frosh who have very little ability to understand the quickness and speed nor defense).

Given all the intangibles, I am very happy with the advanced defense. Usually defense is the last thing teams do well. Kansas looked awful last night despite having elite talent.
I know Xavier will peak in February. Barring more injuries, X hopefully can squeak by UC, Florida, and TCU. The BE will be extremely tough on every BE team.

Every college basketball team is struggling early except maybe UK.
A healthy Carter with confidence and wind in his sails will make him the best rebounder on this team. LSU, Kansas, and 70 other "good" teams are holding back the stress and frustration of their basketball fanatics.
Trust in Steele!

[xukeith]

If the pundits are to be believed, Missouri State (next Friday night) is the best team in Missouri. That may be the tougher test next week.
Agree!

[XUGRAD80]

People want to talk about lousy offense? Look no further than the OSU-UC game this past week. UGH. Neither team looked to have any idea what they were doing most of the time. UC is a donut team with a HUGE hole in the middle. Cumberland was reduced to heaving up 30 footers most of the time and none of the newcomers were much better. OSU found some offense down low only because of how ineffective the UC defense was in the post area.

Seems there are a lot of teams that are struggling offensively right now. But despite, their struggles X is still using defense to fuel its offense and that's something that will more than likely be the case all year long. Unlike in some past years, they don't have to rely on just great shooting to score points. They can actually create offense with their defense. When was the last time we said that about an X team? Miller?

[xufan02]

Missouri State lost their home opener to Little Rock. Perhaps the expectations are a bit inflated.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

well yes.....I don't expect them to go undefeated, does anyone?

They will run into a hot shooting team somewhere down the line, but if they keep playing defense like they have shown themselves capable of doing, the chances of that happening often will be very slim. They may have 4 starters back, but beyond that almost everyone is new. it will take some time for this group to jell together completely, but I'm far more encouraged at this point then I was at anytime last year.

I don't think I saw quite as impressive a defensive performance, last night, as your earlier post indicated. I recall a few more uncontested attempts, than you, by Siena last night. But, Siena was better offensively than Jacksonville and so the X defense was more challenged than first game. Still, I agree with your overall assessment that our defense is better, as well as with the importance team defense needs to play in X's success this season. Remember Texas Tech's tournament run last year---it was fueled principally by great team defense.

Another poster stated he sees enough talent on this team to contest for B.E. championship. I cannot be quite so definitive not because I don't see talent on this team, but because I haven't seen much of what the rest of this conference has to offer. I expect our conference rivals have also improved and I'm looking forward to seeing how we fare in B.E. play.

We are going to need more from the P.G. position than we have so far seen. I'm not down on Q and I don't agree (as someone stated) that his play has been selfish.

X just needs better offensive leadership. Until Naji wound up with ball in his hands last night courtesy of a Siena turnover, then drove down inside and dumped off for a Freemantle dunk with .01 left in the first half, X had more turnovers than assists. Three or four of those turnovers came pretty early and we had the whole first half to catch up on our assists but did not until the end. Early in the season, yes, but we are going to need better flow on the offensive end---even if we play great defense. Better flow will be evidenced, I believe, by more assists.

Perhaps some of Naji's one on one play last night is reflective of that. On offense, I have seen a lot of swinging the ball to one side and then attempting to quickly reverse to the opposite side for an open shot. But, I haven't seen much penetration by the P.G. creating dish opportunities to the Bigs or passes back outside for more uncontested jumpers. I believe Q is capable of doing this; just do not recall seeing much of it. And, I'm not against Q shooting but we need to see him try to create more opportunities for teammates. On offense, that should be his primary responsibility. If others see it differently, please say so because, for me, that is a big concern on the offensive end.

But kudos overall. Bishop (despite a couple of bricks) played better and Freemantle (as promised by those that saw him play in high school) is the real deal. He has, it seems, a bright future ahead of him.

[bleedXblue]

I don't think I saw quite as impressive a defensive performance, last night, as your earlier post indicated. I recall a few more uncontested attempts, than you, by Siena last night. But, Siena was better offensively than Jacksonville and so the X defense was more challenged than first game. Still, I agree with your overall assessment that our defense is better, as well as with the importance team defense needs to play in X's success this season. Remember Texas Tech's tournament run last year---it was fueled principally by great team defense.

Another poster stated he sees enough talent on this team to contest for B.E. championship. I cannot be quite so definitive not because I don't see talent on this team, but because I haven't seen much of what the rest of this conference has to offer. I expect our conference rivals have also improved and I'm looking forward to seeing how we fare in B.E. play.

We are going to need more from the P.G. position than we have so far seen. I'm not down on Q and I don't agree (as someone stated) that his play has been selfish.

X just needs better offensive leadership. Until Naji wound up with ball in his hands last night courtesy of a Siena turnover, then drove down inside and dumped off for a Freemantle dunk with .01 left in the first half, X had more turnovers than assists. Three or four of those turnovers came pretty early and we had the whole first half to catch up on our assists but did not until the end. Early in the season, yes, but we are going to need better flow on the offensive end---even if we play great defense. Better flow will be evidenced, I believe, by more assists.

Perhaps some of Naji's one on one play last night is reflective of that. On offense, I have seen a lot of swinging the ball to one side and then attempting to quickly reverse to the opposite side for an open shot. But, I haven't seen much penetration by the P.G. creating dish opportunities to the Bigs or passes back outside for more uncontested jumpers. I believe Q is capable of doing this; just do not recall seeing much of it. And, I'm not against Q shooting but we need to see him try to create more opportunities for teammates. On offense, that should be his primary responsibility. If others see it differently, please say so because, for me, that is a big concern on the offensive end.

But kudos overall. Bishop (despite a couple of bricks) played better and Freemantle (as promised by those that saw him play in high school) is the real deal. He has, it seems, a bright future ahead of him.

Agree on the defense......it is more keep your man in front of you and don't give up easy shots.......not pressing and trapping to create turnovers and get a fast basket in transition.

I like the improvement on D, just not buying that it is going to translate into easier offense at this point.

Yes, we need Q to be a creator and distributor. When he is at his best is when he is getting to the bucket. Sienna did crowd the lane last night, so there is that....

[Lloyd Braun]

I think most teams are going to crowd the paint against us... we need shooters in the worst way. Wilcher is going to look like Steph Curry in our eyes if we continue to see the bricklaying on display!

[IM4X]

It seems that 99% of what is posted here postgame is about the offense. No doubt that Marshall is not making enough 3 pointers and should probably be taking less of them.

But I’m going to complement the defense. There was only 1-2 times during the whole game where we saw a Siena player shoot a wide open shot. If X keeps playing defense like this they are going to be in every game the whole year, and are going to win the vast majority of them. I’m also encouraged with the depth. Having the depth to play 8-10 players and not have a significant drop off will give X the ability to apply that defensive pressure throughout a whole game and still allow key players to get some rest. Finally, playing good defense, and limiting the points allowed means that X doesn’t have to be perfect on offense in order to win. A refreshing change from some of the recent past teams where the emphasis seemed to be on just out scoring the opposition by playing offense and defense be damned.

Good points. The defense does continue to look good.

Back to the offense... and some of the positives there...

1. FT shooting got better (even Jones) - Naji, Moore and Freemantle all looked good - very encouraging - the team could end up being very solid from the line... so important.

2. they team played pretty well together and should they could score just fine even without a few key players (Scruggs and Kyky). Someone touched a bit on this above.

[bobbiemcgee]

Big turnaround when Steele went to the press after a forgettable first 10 minutes.

[bobbiemcgee]

I think most teams are going to crowd the paint against us... we need shooters in the worst way. Wilcher is going to look like Steph Curry in our eyes if we continue to see the bricklaying on display!

I'm hoping Moore can emerge as "that guy". He seems to have such a pure shot from the top of the key. Need to get him involved more.

[IM4X]

Freemantle (as promised by those that saw him play in high school) is the real deal. He has, it seems, a bright future ahead of him.

I was one of those who saw him play in HS and while I thought he was very impressive, I did have one potential concern. I wonder if he would be able to hold his own early on against legit D1 bigs or be a little timid, since he going up against forwards no bigger than 6ft 6in in the games I saw.

I have to say, he has looked very impressive in that regard. Steele said he was showing great physicality in practice, but you never really know how that will translate when it’s a real game. Well, he is doing just fine. He is a pretty good free throw shooter too and will be huge in helping the team accumulate some much needed points there as well.

[noteggs]

Agree with GRAD80, defense looks solid for the most part. If we continue to improve in that area, we’ll steal a few wins here and there. Hard for me to gauge team on what we’re going to get from the offensive side this year (yes I’ve seen the good, bad and ugly). However, we’ve only seen our 5 starters on the court together for about 4 minutes in two games.

Moore looks like the real deal and as much as I liked Kyle, he is head and shoulders better in that position. Freemantle looks like he’s going to be a special player over time. Offensive and rebounding skills are there, but needs to get better on the defensive side. I can see a lot of potential in Bishop. Obviously his shot hasn’t been there, but really surprised about his rebounding. He was the second leading rebounder with 7 in both games.

[IM4X]

Jones is still the MIP (Most Impressive Player) through two games IMO.

[atljar]

For what its worth, our offense is higher ranked than our defense at this point per KenPom Adjusted O and Adjusted D

[Juice]

Jones is still the MIP (Most Impressive Play) through two games IMO.

Only Bryce Moore has a higher ORating (barely) but Jones is being used at over 28% of the possessions while Moore is between 12-16%. Long story short, your opinion is correct.

[American X]

IMHO, this team has enough talent and depth to compete for a BE title. It's Achilles heel is its basketball IQ and making poor decisions at times. Clean that up some, and you will have a really good chance at having a great year.

https://pics.me.me/thumb_100-johnny-utah-approved-pointb-point-break-minute-minute-54076508.png

[muskienick]

Siena’s non-conference schedule is interesting:

Xavier
Harvard
Yale
Colgate
Cal Poly
Bucknell

Those were the exact schools that offered me full ride academic scholarships when I was in high school!

Here is my list of the top 10 colleges that offered me a full ride academic scholarship when I was in high school: #1 Not recorded, #2 Not recorded, #3 Not recorded, Etc. Etc. Etc, Etc, Etc, Etc, Etc. Despite that I earned Second Honors at St. X H.S. in Cincinnati (and was damned lucky to eke that out)!

[xukeith]

Minus Scruggs, the offense looked better. Carter is still out of shape but will hopefully show his amazing drive and rebounding skills according to the coaches.
Kudos to Bishop for rebounding and not being a 1 trick pony.
Zack is a big kid and will provide offense.
Moore is fantastic.
Jones wins the 2 game start MVP.

Last year's defense is now 10 x better.

It may take 3-4 weeks to get Tandy in rhythm or comfortable but right now, he is the 4th guy off the bench.

James looked impressive too yesterday with running the floor, setting plays and dribbling up the court. Nice to see all his effort pay off.
Miles and all the rest will be sharpening iron in practice.
Stop panicking. Start panicking if X loses by 15 at home vs. Missouri.

[Xville]

If the pundits are to be believed, Missouri State (next Friday night) is the best team in Missouri. That may be the tougher test next week.

Prognosticators are clueless about Mizzou. I think they are actually going to be a top half sec team which is pretty damn good in that league.

[scoscox]

Prognosticators are clueless about Mizzou. I think they are actually going to be a top half sec team which is pretty damn good in that league.

mizzou is gonna be a really tough game

[GIMMFD]

I think most teams are going to crowd the paint against us... we need shooters in the worst way. Wilcher is going to look like Steph Curry in our eyes if we continue to see the bricklaying on display!

I think it's gonna get better, Moore seems to have a good shot from the three, Kyky will be back soon enough, etc. If Jones can keep playing like he is, it may not matter too much, Rique has been a force this season, looks fully locked in. It's an adjustment, we have Freshman who are learning the game, I'm sure they'll get into a rhythm moving forward as well, the 3 point line being pushed back was a great idea in my opinion, but we're just seeing the growing pains of it to start out with. I hope Naji and Scruggs start hitting at a higher rate, if that happens, we'll be a pretty damn tough out because the defense looks improved, and we definitely have talent and depth this year.

[xukeith]

Florida, in the Charleston Tournament and ranked #6, lost by twelve to unranked Fl State today on Florida's court. Both teams were very sloppy so hard to tell whether anything can be presumed by this loss. But Florida only scored 51 points. As a side note, three point shooting seemed not to be too good and reinforces the concept that percentages from three point are down this year because of the extended three point line.

And we think X is not that great.

[scoscox]

Florida, in the Charleston Tournament and ranked #6, lost by twelve to unranked Fl State today on Florida's court. Both teams were very sloppy so hard to tell whether anything can be presumed by this loss. But Florida only scored 51 points. As a side note, three point shooting seemed not to be too good and reinforces the concept that percentages from three point are down this year because of the extended three point line.

And we think X is not that great.

Florida didn't look good. I never bought into them being a top ten team. Frankly, the hype never made a lot of sense. Kerry Blackshear was getting way too much credit

[UCGRAD4X]

One would normally expect the team to take much longer to jell with so many new players. Of course, having the core four helps. But the many new players already seem to be making a good showing. We'll see about KyKy, but already we are getting a pretty good idea of what we have and the potential as the season wears on. And with the depth, hitting the freshman wall should be less likely. Of course, we need to see what they look like against real competition. I would not be surprised by some early struggles against better teams, but as the season wears on into BE play, I expect big things from this team.

[Michigan Muskie]

Florida, in the Charleston Tournament and ranked #6, lost by twelve to unranked Fl State today on Florida's court. Both teams were very sloppy so hard to tell whether anything can be presumed by this loss. But Florida only scored 51 points. As a side note, three point shooting seemed not to be too good and reinforces the concept that percentages from three point are down this year because of the extended three point line.

And we think X is not that great.

Florida went 4 for 22 from deep (18%.) Florida State was 5 for 17, so the two teams shot a combined 9 for 39 (23%.) Get used to it for awhile.

[American X]

HOT TAKE: The Xavier offense is better when getting the ball to Tyrique for dunks rather than brick jump shots.

I thought Robert DeNiro killed the Siena coach in Goodfellas. A lot of vowels happening there.

Even Sideshow Bob got into the game!

I heart 7 assist Naji. I do not heart 1 for 7 Naji.

I'll be honest, fellas, it was looking great, but......I could've used a little more Bryce Moore.

[bleedXblue]

HOT TAKE: The Xavier offense is better when getting the ball to Tyrique for dunks rather than brick jump shots.

I thought Robert DeNiro killed the Siena coach in Goodfellas. A lot of vowels happening there.

Even Sideshow Bob got into the game!

I heart 7 assist Naji. I do not heart 1 for 7 Naji.

I'll be honest, fellas, it was looking great, but......I could've used a little more Bryce Moore.

Moore is going to be hard to keep off the floor with how well he defends. I hope we see him in the starting lineup tomorrow night.

[xukeith]

Across the US, teams are shooting very poorly despite having elite prospects as recruits. Is it the line extension? Is it defenses? Is it poor guards? It is probably a little of all of the above.

Villanova and Creighton will be shooting tons of 3's. Other teams are not so 3 point savvy. X's defense and our interior power will carry X to a deep run.

It is very early so if Missouri wins or Missouri St wins, don't panic as X always peaks in March. I expect Goodin to be like Dee Davis during the Crosstown shootout. He won't be guarded and he will hit 5 threes.

[AviatorX]

I am going to be worried if Xavier loses to Mizzou (after last year's debacle) and absolutely panicking if X loses to Missouri State (who is terrible), especially if we see the same old warts magnified. If Xavier can't beat those two teams at Cintas, even without a fully healthy roster, that would be disappointing.

[Masterofreality]

I hope Naji and Scruggs start hitting at a higher rate, if that happens, we'll be a pretty damn tough out because the defense looks improved, and we definitely have talent and depth this year.

Naji is shooting 9.1% THAT"S NINE. percent on 3's, with the most attempts on the team. That HAS to stop. Dude, you are awesome going to the hoop. Stop hoisting garbage, even if you're open. You are open for a reason. (Eye Roll)

[Masterofreality]

Moore is going to be hard to keep off the floor with how well he defends. I hope we see him in the starting lineup tomorrow night.

I really can't wait to see Bryce Moore firmly ensconced in Jarron Cumberland's shorts.
Yes, this is a basketball, not porn, related statement.

[IM4X]

Naji is shooting 9.1% THAT"S NINE. percent on 3's, with the most attempts on the team. That HAS to stop. Dude, you are awesome going to the hoop. Stop hoisting garbage, even if you're open. You are open for a reason. (Eye Roll)

Yes... I too had mentioned my concern about his 1-11 from 3 in an earlier post and how when asked about the teams 3 point struggles in the post game press conference he said he was not worried... that “They will start dropping.” Like it was just about quantity.

Then I stumbled on this stat about his 3 point shooting last year.

He took more 3s than any other player (173) and shot 27.7%. I do think Steele will be on him more than last year (if he keeps it up), especially since there are a few more players capable players this year. If Naji has the most 3s this year or even the 2nd most, it won’t be good.

[UCGRAD4X]

If he thinks he needs to show he can hit from the outside to raise his draft stock, which I certainly hope is not the case. First of all because it would be selfish and short-sighted but also because, at this point, it would probably be having the opposite affect. I just don't know what his thinking is otherwise given past returns.