Game Thread: Xavier v. Missouri State (November 15, 2019) Charleston Classic

[Muskie]

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

Xavier University Musketeers (3-0,0-0) vs. Missouri State (2-1,0-0)
Friday, November 15, 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) 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 rallied to beat Missouri to improve to 3-0 on the season. (Link (https://goxavier.com/news/2019/11/12/mens-basketball-no-21-xavier-wins-third-straight-in-overtime-victory-over-mizzou.aspx))
Missouri State Defeated Cleveland State. (Link (https://missouristatebears.com/news/2019/11/12/mens-basketball-bears-dispatch-cleveland-state-to-wrap-home-stand.aspx))

Tiger Media:
Missouri State Athletics Homepage (Link (https://missouristatebears.com/sports/mens-basketball/schedule))
Missouri State on Twitter (Link (http://@MissouriState))

[AviatorX]

Looks like X is breaking out the script "Xavier" jerseys from the Spain trip. Personally, I think they're terrible, but if I'm not mistaken, they don't have player names on the back, so should help with the team's connectivity and offensive flow. Great move by Steele, IMO.

[GIMMFD]

Looks like X is breaking out the script "Xavier" jerseys from the Spain trip. Personally, I think they're terrible, but if I'm not mistaken, they don't have player names on the back, so should help with the team's connectivity and offensive flow. Great move by Steele, IMO.

I wasn't a huge fan of what they looked like either, I thought those were practice jerseys hahah. I'm just hoping we can take care of business and have a good turkey tournament showing, I always liked these, but it seems in years past we haven't performed up to standard in them. Happy with the win over a decent Missouri team, now let's conquer the state.

[Xuperman]

Coach better game plan to smother Keandre Cook or this one could get interesting. He's a long/athletic 6'5" SG and is hot as a popcorn fart....especially from distance going 9-17 at a 53% clip but he can score inside the arc as well, going 9-15 on his deuces. Also not good to send him to the line as he's 13-14 from the stripe.....put that all together and he's pretty much the exact opposite of anyone we have stat wise. He is nicely paired with a decent facilitator in junior transfer Tyrik Dixon who averaged over 100 assists in his first 2 seasons at MTSU.

They have some decent pieces in the frontcourt also. Cincinnati boy and WVU grad transfer Lamont West was very productive for Hugs, scoring nearly 1000 points in 3 years for the Mountaineers. He's used to P6 competition, so he will certainly be a concern tonight. The other 6'8" big Da Silva has been Mr. Glass so far.

Now that Loyola has been exposed, the Bears could be viewed as the favorites to win the MVC. This is the 1st of 3 straight against the P6, so they'll get there chance to prove something. Hoping for a good ol' fashion was whoppin' but if our offensive numbers remain stagnant we'll likely have another nail biter.

[GoMuskies]

Doesn't appear to this point that we missed much with Ridder. He played 6 minutes in their loss to UALR and scored one point. He's DNP'd the last two.

[Xuperman]

Doesn't appear to this point that we missed much with Ridder. He played 6 minutes in their loss to UALR and scored one point. He's DNP'd the last two.

Yeah, and all that energy spent on the vial criticism on his de-commitment by some here was a big fat nothing burger!

I wonder if he will get booed?

[GoMuskies]

Doesn't look like he'll get announced. Apparently he's hurt.

I can't remember. Didn't he show up on campus and then leave shortly thereafter? Sort of a Richie Sutherland situation (that's going DEEP in the bank!).

[Xuperman]

Yeah, wasn't someone here raggin' on him for leaving because he missed his mommy?

[Masterofreality]

Gotta tell you.
I went back and “Checked the Tape” of the Missouri game. It was damn ugly up until when Naji made the 3. But after that, X did all the right things and played impressively. Stopped jacking shots, took the ball to the rack, made their frees and played solid lockdown defense.
Let’s hope that is what we see from now. (With hopefully better shooting thrown in)

[UCGRAD4X]

Tonight is a good night to 'set things right'. The core four need to step up. I don't expect a whole lot out of Q except some lockdown defense, but the other three need to start living up to their expectations. With the other pieces, growing pains are to be expected.

Naji, Tyrique and Paul need to man up tonight. I expect they will.

[GIMMFD]

They have some decent pieces in the frontcourt also. Cincinnati boy and WVU grad transfer Lamont West was very productive for Hugs, scoring nearly 1000 points in 3 years for the Mountaineers. He's used to P6 competition, so he will certainly be a concern tonight. The other 6'8" big Da Silva has been Mr. Glass so far.\

Didn't even realize Lamont West transferred to Missouri State lmfao. He was pretty good for WVU last year, but honestly only reason he got that much PT is because Esa Ahmad and Wesley Harris were kicked off the team last year. However, Lamont West can still play a little bit. Pretty streaky shooter too, would have a lot of games where you'd think he was growing into his potential, and then just have a few headscratching decisions, but definitely has been battle tested

[Xuperman]

Just read they have a JC All American BIG that, evidently, Coach Ford has not played under the guise of being injured. Looks like he "just happens" to be ready for his D1 debut tonight. If that's the case it's a pretty slick way of throwing a wrench in the X scouting for this game. As long as a LJ Figueroa type doesn't show up, no sweat. These guys do look High Mid Major from a size standpoint, so prepare for a good effort from them.

[GoMuskies]

Yes, they fudged the injury so that they could lose to UALR and increase their chances of winning at Xavier from 4% up to 4.5%.

[Xuperman]

Yes, they fudged the injury so that they could lose to UALR and increase their chances of winning at Xavier from 4% up to 4.5%.

I think I saw the Vegas spread at -14.5.....If that's the case, how can the chances of winning be only 4.5? Anything under 15 usually is in the 15-20% range.

[Jesuit4Life]

TV clearances:
(https://goxavier.com/documents/2019/11/13//FSN_Missouri_State_at_Xavier.pdf)
FOX SPORTS ARIZONA
FOX SPORTS DETROIT (PLUS)
FOX SPORTS FLORIDA (Non Magic)
FOX SPORTS MIDWEST (Blues PLUS)
FOX SPORTS OHIO (Cavs PLUS)
FOX SPORTS OHIO (Non Blue Jackets)
FOX SPORTS SOUTHEAST (GA & MS)
FOX SPORTS SOUTHWEST (Spurs, Grizzlies & Thunder PLUS)
FOX SPORTS SOUTHWEST (Houston, Mavs & Pelicans)
FOX SPORTS WEST
FOX SPORTS WISCONSIN (PLUS)
AT&T SPORTSNET (Rocky Mountain Region)
MASN 2
YES
YURVIEW NEW ENGLAND

Gameday Guide: https://twitter.com/XavierMBB/status/1195136322995970048
Fox Sports Ohio channel finder: https://www.foxsports.com/ohio/story/fox-sports-ohio-channel-finder-121113

[Jesuit4Life]

Let's Go X

[GoMuskies]

I think I saw the Vegas spread at -14.5.....If that's the case, how can the chances of winning be only 4.5? Anything under 15 usually is in the 15-20% range.

Based on the money line they’ve got about an 11% shot.

[scoscox]

I like that Matt Schumaker repeatedly refers to us as the "Kings of the Queen City" when it goes to break

[noteggs]

Defense looks locked in. Offense not a bad start, but last few positions less than stellar.

[scoscox]

Defense looks locked in. Offense not a bad start, but last few positions less than stellar.

really struggling with this zone. way too many turnovers

[bjf123]

Hot damn. In a hotel south of Atlanta and found the game on Fox Sports Southeast.


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[X Factor]

The three point futility is unbelievable.

[scoscox]

missouri state is hitting a ton of difficult shots

[bjf123]

And we still can’t make the 3.


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[X Factor]

missouri state is hitting a ton of difficult shots

Probably something we will never hear the opposing team's fans say about Xavier this year.

[Roach]

Man, this team really needs to reign in the turnovers before Charleston. It’s a bit maddening.

[scoscox]

Probably something we will never hear the opposing team's fans say about Xavier this year.

they continue to just hit everything they throw up. it would help if we stopped turning it over and figured out the zone

[X Factor]

they continue to just hit everything they throw up. it would help if we stopped turning it over and figured out the zone

If I was the opposing coach, I would definitely play zone and watch X throw up bricks all night long.

I just don't understand why these guys suck so bad at shooting threes.

[scoscox]

these turnovers are just maddening

[scoscox]

If I was the opposing coach, I would definitely play zone and watch X throw up bricks all night long.

I just don't understand why these guys suck so bad at shooting threes.

same. i'm fine with the shooting. it is what it is. the turnovers drive me nuts though

[scoscox]

4 guys just went over naji's back for that rebound

[scoscox]

hahahaha holy shit these turnovers

[scoscox]

I don't know why we're determined to play so fast. we clearly can't handle it. slow tf down.

[X Factor]

10 first half turnovers. Xavier's goal is 11 turnovers or less every game.

I can't watch the game, just following online, but Missouri St. shot over 50% from the field in the 1st half? Was our super improved defense that bad?

[scoscox]

10 first half turnovers. Xavier's goal is 11 turnovers or less every game.

I can't watch the game, just following online, but Missouri St. shot over 50% from the field in the 1st half? Was our super improved defense that bad?

no. pretty good defense. they were just hitting everything they threw up

[bjf123]

Both teams shot 52.2% from the floor, 12/23, and both made 3 3s, but they were 3/6 and we’re 3/10. The margin in the game is we made two more FTs.


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[scoscox]

10 first half turnovers. Xavier's goal is 11 turnovers or less every game.

I can't watch the game, just following online, but Missouri St. shot over 50% from the field in the 1st half? Was our super improved defense that bad?

we also made it easier on them by turning it over every other possession

[scoscox]

missouri state may not miss again

[noteggs]

They are over 50% from 3. Wow

[X Factor]

Jones with 4 turnovers. Play Freemantle if Tyrique is going to be a human turnover machine.

[X Factor]

They are over 50% from 3. Wow

Must be nice to have some shooters. That erases a lot of the talent gap in today's game.

[bjf123]

They are over 50% from 3. Wow

Yep. And we’re just over 25%. Ugh.


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[D-West & PO-Z]

I like getting Carter in the middle of that zone. Feel like he is capable of making good decisions there.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I mean they werent bad looks but Goodin bricking two threes on the same possession is frustrating offense to watch.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Another good look for Goodin, thank god he knocks that one down.

[D-West & PO-Z]

That is Naji at his best there.

Fastish break gets into the lane, easy floater.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Nice run here, lets get another bucket to push to double digits.

[noteggs]

Freemantle is a blue collar type guy!

[Xville]

Offense looks a little bit better tonight...not great by any means but...progress.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Nice run here, lets get another bucket to push to double digits.

And instead a turnover leading to an and 1 fast break. UGH

[Xville]

Scruggs needs to be a little more selfish on the offensive end, and naji a little more share the wealth.

[Xville]

I can see how missouri state was picked by some to win their league. There is definitely some talent there, they have some length, and seem to be well coached.

[noteggs]

BTW I called Freemantle blue collar before announcer lol

[KabeX]

Sometimes I hate November.

[AviatorX]

I can see how missouri state was picked by some to win their league. There is definitely some talent there, they have some length, and seem to be well coached.

Agreed. Impressed with Missouri State. They definitely look better than Missouri, IMO. Solid backcourt and some bouncy guys in the front court along with the huge JUCO who made his debut tonight.

Would be good to see X suffocate them in the next four minute war and win by double digits.

[scoscox]

Scruggs needs to be a little more selfish on the offensive end, and naji a little more share the wealth.

this has been an issue for a year and a half. someone get in scruggs' ear and tell him he's the best player on the team

[scoscox]

Missouri State has been getting away with being extremely physical

[bjf123]

Why does Tyrique insist on putting the ball on the floor under the rim?


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[KabeX]

Really not liking this. Again, I hate November.

[X Factor]

Naji is so inefficient. He should be way better at 6'7 and his length.

[KabeX]

And for the record, I like our Tyrique more than their (hot head flopper) Tyrik

[bobbiemcgee]

Might be time to try Moore on those freebie T Ft's.

[KabeX]

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot?

[X Factor]

This team's ceiling is so low because the shooting is not going to improve. The offense sucks.

Missouri State has over 20 turnovers and they could win this thing.

[KabeX]

We're mot a good team right now. Call me Capt. Obvious.

[Xville]

Goodin stop effing shooting...you are wide open because most times you cant hit the broad side of a barn. Stop shooting

[scoscox]

freemantle should be in the game

[D-West & PO-Z]

We have no go to FT shooter. Goodin missed his tech FT, Scruggs missed two, now trying Naji I guess?

[bjf123]

No way we should be ranked after this game, even if we win.


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[X Factor]

One of the least skilled Xavier teams I've seen in over 20 years.

[KabeX]

better score here

[D-West & PO-Z]

Great drive by Scruggs.

[scoscox]

paul can do that at will. that should be our primary offense. i've been saying this for a year now

[KabeX]

Paul f. Scruggs

[Xville]

Scruggs! Our best player....it is time he realizes that.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Anyone remember going into last year some posters being excited about the post Tre/JP era and the more quick fast paced, less expectations bball to be played?

Ha, yeah, give me two years ago all day long!

[Xville]

Thank goodness this team has bought into team d this year because otherwise we would be effing terrible.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Win and move on I guess!

[KabeX]

One of the best albums of 1981 - ESCAPE

[X Factor]

This team might be in serious trouble versus Big East teams.

I don't even know where to begin.

[XUGRAD80]

I don’t think I can take a whole season like this....whew!

4-0, but they blow leads way to easily.

[X Factor]

Thank goodness this team has bought into team d this year because otherwise we would be effing terrible.

Missouri State shot 49% from the field and 42% from three. They turned it over 22 times and still almost won. Admittedly, I didn't watch the game, so I'm not sure if Xavier's defense was causing those turnovers, or if it was carelessness on their part.

[D-West & PO-Z]

KyKy better be the second coming!

[bjf123]

This team might be in serious trouble versus Big East teams.

I don't even know where to begin.

Keep playing like this and we’ll be bottom of the Big East.


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[noteggs]

Borrow a line from Al Davis- just win baby!

[Xville]

Anyone remember going into last year some posters being excited about the post Tre/JP era and the more quick fast paced, less expectations bball to be played?

Ha, yeah, give me two years ago all day long!

I know the shooting is painful to watch, but I appreciate the defensive effort they have put forth every game. I got really sick of the ole' defense of the tre/jp era and it's the reason they lost early twice with high seeds in march.

Hopefully tandy can play in a few weeks and be really ready to go by conference time, Scruggs realizes he is the best player on the team, and everyone else does too. Oh, and a stop freaking shooting outside 2 feet.

[KabeX]

Beating the deceased equine - I hate November!

[AviatorX]

This team might be in serious trouble versus Big East teams.

I don't even know where to begin.

That’s a lifetime from now and wasn’t the case at all last year. But ok.

I’d be way more worried if X got blown off the floor by Northwestern or Penn State or if they had Butler, DePaul or St John’s roster.

[GIMMFD]

Let's break this down:
Negatives:
- We aren't very good right now. Lack good shot choices, especially shooting a bunch of threes when we really aren't a good shooting team.
- We actually lack decision making in general, not much flow to our play
- Did I mention we're a bad shooting team???

Positives:
- We don't have to be good right now, just gotta start getting better and peak in March
- A win is a win, and starting 3-0 is still fun. We could have lost to Evansville at home.
- Carter and Freemantle are pretty fun to watch, will miss Hankins, but these two are great for depth
- Kyky hasn't been unleashed yet.
- Missouri State Champs.

[Xville]

Missouri State shot 49% from the field and 42% from three. They turned it over 22 times and still almost won. Admittedly, I didn't watch the game, so I'm not sure if Xavier's defense was causing those turnovers, or if it was carelessness on their part.

Well, I did watch the game, and the defense was good. How do you think those tos happened? Missouri state was hitting some heavily contested shots

[D-West & PO-Z]

I know the shooting is painful to watch, but I appreciate the defensive effort they have put forth every game. I got really sick of the ole' defense of the tre/jp era and it's the reason they lost early twice with high seeds in march.

Hopefully tandy can play in a few weeks and be really ready to go by conference time, Scruggs realizes he is the best player on the team, and everyone else does too. Oh, and a stop freaking shooting outside 2 feet.

Wish we could combine the two!

I agree we need Scruggs to really take the reins.

Q just isnt what we thought he would be. Steele really needs to consider Scruggs playing PG and Goodin off the bench imo.

[D-West & PO-Z]

As my friend just texted me "I could quit my job and just always bet the other team to cover against X".

So true. Not that that matters to the wins, but yet to cover a game. Can't believe we were favored by 14-15 tonight.

[scoscox]

Well, I did watch the game, and the defense was good. How do you think those tos happened? Missouri state was hitting some heavily contested shots

yes, mo state shot way above their level. our biggest problem tonight was our turnovers. the shooting is what it is, but that many turnovers is totally unacceptable

[X Factor]

Well, I did watch the game, and the defense was good. How do you think those tos happened? Missouri state was hitting some heavily contested shots

And that's why I admitted I wasn't able to watch the game. But we've seen Xavier players have plenty of turnovers where the other team's defense had nothing to do with it, so that's why I asked.

[bjf123]

22% from 3 and 67% from the charity stripe just won’t cut it against better teams, especially in the Big East.


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[X Factor]

Name a less skilled Xavier team that featured this many upperclassmen in the starting lineup in the past 20 years.

[AviatorX]

22% from 3 and 67% from the charity stripe just won’t cut it against better teams, especially in the Big East.


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Obviously. I don’t think anyone could possibly disagree with this. The point is it’s nearly inconceivably (added the nearly after tonight’s performance) that the shooting will remain so poor. I mean last years team was in the low 30’s.

[stammina0721]

22% from 3 and 67% from the charity stripe just won’t cut it against better teams, especially in the Big East.


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3 counter points...

1. It's November
2. We are not at full strength
3. It's freaking November.

Who cares at this point the only thing that matters is wins. Xavier in November won't be Xavier in February so just win and survive

[KabeX]

3 counter points...

1. It's November
2. We are not at full strength
3. It's freaking November.

Who cares at this point the only thing that matters is wins. Xavier in November won't be Xavier in February so just win and survive

1. Yup.
2. Yup.
3. Hell Yup.

Did I mention I hate November?

[X Factor]

Obviously. I don’t think anyone could possibly disagree with this. The point is it’s nearly inconceivably (added the nearly after tonight’s performance) that the shooting will remain so poor. I mean last years team was in the low 30’s.

And we lost Ryan Welage off that team, who made 60 three pointers, and shot 42%. We definitely didn't bring in anyone who can shoot like him.

This team SUCKS at shooting and probably won't make 10 threes in a game all year.

[AviatorX]

And we lost Ryan Welage off that team, who made 60 three pointers, and shot 42%. We definitely didn't bring in anyone who can shoot like him.

This team SUCKS at shooting and probably won't make 10 threes in a game all year.

Let’s not overstate the impact of Welage, we all watched him play with our own two eyes.

[scoscox]

And we lost Ryan Welage off that team, who made 60 three pointers, and shot 42%. We definitely didn't bring in anyone who can shoot like him.

This team SUCKS at shooting and probably won't make 10 threes in a game all year.

very conceivable kyky will be in that range. we don't really know yet

[Xville]

And we lost Ryan Welage off that team, who made 60 three pointers, and shot 42%. We definitely didn't bring in anyone who can shoot like him.

This team SUCKS at shooting and probably won't make 10 threes in a game all year.

Yes we did, you just haven't seen him play yet. I do wish elias had stayed though. He wasn't the best shooter in the world but he seemed to be coming on a bit last year and it would be nice to have him spell someone.

As a few others have mentioned on here, our talent is still a little deficient thanks to recruiting misses. Our seniors are pretty meh, outside of james we dont have a sophomore class, and our freshmen are freshmen who are going to take time.

F mack and his inability to be consistent in recruiting.

[X Factor]

Let’s not overstate the impact of Welage, we all watched him play with our own two eyes.

We would all LOVE it if someone could make 60 threes this season for Xavier. At this pace, someone might might hit 30 by year's end.

That's not going to work in 2019.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

I agree we need Scruggs to really take the reins.

Q just isnt what we thought he would be. Steele really needs to consider Scruggs playing PG and Goodin off the bench imo.[/QUOTE]


Yes. It is time to move Scruggs to point, replace Q in starting line-up with Moore. Bring Q off bench. Q just doesn't seem to be in the game.

[AviatorX]

We would all LOVE it if someone could make 60 threes this season for Xavier. At this pace, someone might might hit 30 by year's end.

That's not going to work in 2019.

Nah, I'd much rather have his minutes played by Moore/Tandy/Bishop. Don't care if they combine for 60 threes or not. Welage was not good, and it's not like he made X a good shooting team anyway.

FYI, Bryce Moore put up essentially the same stat line from three his last healthy season as Welage did at X last year.

[AviatorX]

Anyone remember going into last year some posters being excited about the post Tre/JP era and the more quick fast paced, less expectations bball to be played?

Ha, yeah, give me two years ago all day long!

I actually think some posters are still in the mindset of those seasons. X isn't playing for a power seed this year. They're looking at a 6-11 and trying to grind out a second weekend appearance as an absolute ceiling. That's why people need to relax a bit and just take every win we can, especially early. Not every game has to be a sweeping indictment on the trajectory of the season even though it definitely felt that way when X was an elite team.

[X Factor]

I actually think some posters are still in the mindset of those seasons. X isn't playing for a power seed this year. They're looking at a 6-11 and trying to grind out a second weekend appearance as an absolute ceiling. That's why people need to relax a bit and just take every win we can, especially early. Not every game has to be a sweeping indictment on the trajectory of the season even though it definitely felt that way when X was an elite team.

Why do you have to be so level-headed?

[AviatorX]

Why do you have to be so level-headed?

Losing to Leonard Hamilton in the position X was in in 2018 broke me.

[XUGRAD80]

And I think that many posters are also overly offensive minded, which seems strange after all the moaning about X never playing tough defense under the prior administration. I kind of get the idea that everyone wants them to be a great shooting team AND to be a great defensive team at the same time, and that would be really really nice if they were. However, I think it’s time to realize that this team is only going to be successful if they can play great, I mean really great, defense. They don’t have any great shooters, and they aren’t going to become a good shooting team sometime between now and March. No sense in worrying about something that isn’t going to change or complaining about something that’s not going to change. On the other hand, this team has a chance to become one of the really great defensive teams we have ever seen wear the Muskie uniforms. It’s not pretty, it’s not flashy, it’s not what we are used to seeing, but it’s probably exactly what we are going to see the rest of the year.

[AviatorX]

And I think that many posters are also overly offensive minded, which seems strange after all the moaning about X never playing tough defense under the prior administration. I kind of get the idea that everyone wants them to be a great shooting team AND to be a great defensive team at the same time, and that would be really really nice if they were. However, I think it’s time to realize that this team is only going to be successful if they can play great, I mean really great, defense. They don’t have any great shooters, and they aren’t going to become a good shooting team sometime between now and March. No sense in worrying about something that isn’t going to change or complaining about something that’s not going to change. On the other hand, this team has a chance to become one of the really great defensive teams we have ever seen wear the Muskie uniforms. It’s not pretty, it’s not flashy, it’s not what we are used to seeing, but it’s probably exactly what we are going to see the rest of the year.

I'm with you, but the shooting has been absolutely horrendous to this point. It would be pretty frustrating if the offense wasn't AT LEAST as good/efficient as last season's edition. I think that's all anyone who is reasonable is expecting.

[xukeith]

Losing to Leonard Hamilton in the position X was in in 2018 broke me.

Hamilton's FSU fans are freaked out due to tonight's 79-74 win over horrible Western Carolina.

Duke fans are nervous as Duke turned the ball over 17 times and only shot 25% from 3 and only 34% from the field.....

[noteggs]

Let’s not overstate the impact of Welage, we all watched him play with our own two eyes.

Completely agree. When he was able to get a shot off, he was good. But the rest...

[whopper]

Losing to Leonard Hamilton in the position X was in in 2018 broke me. my 2 sleepless nights over the past 4 years were after Wisconsin and Fla State. I could not believe we did not have another week of articles, analysis etc. I think the 2nd week is the team's ceiling and I have seen senior laden teams gel in the tournament. I think the turning point tonight was when we were up 9 and Q did something he does all the time, get a ball deflected on an entry pass when he does not step into the pass to create an angle, the red hair guy then hit a conventional 3 and the 9 with the ball became a 6. The 2 possessions where we worked it around for 23 seconds side to side and hoisted a shot stunk too. Glad we won though and thank God Scruggs saw the opening. Our core 4 have kind of plateaued at a good not great level and it happens.

[xukeith]

Maybe Scruggs and Marshall will return as seniors if they are less than 25% shooters.

[xukeith]

Missouri State is better than maybe 4 BE teams.
Those other 5 teams will be tough to beat.
It is all about # of possessions. Turnovers, rebounds and free throws. If you have a lot more possessions, then your probability of out scoring will be significantly better.
Maybe that is why Steele was quoted tonight as he did not care about the 3 point attempts. He did take issue with turnovers.

[paulxu]

- A win is a win, and starting 3-0 is still fun..

Did the NCAA take back one of our wins?

[scoscox]

Maybe Scruggs and Marshall will return as seniors if they are less than 25% shooters.

they definitely won't get drafted playing at this level

[scoscox]

On the bright side, when freemantle gets his fouls under control he'll be a huge asset. he continues to be uber productive. 7 points and 2 rebs (both offensive) and a block in 13 minutes on 3/4 shooting

[xukeith]

[Bottom line, X thought tonight they could walk over Missouri St.

X stopped defense intensity and it was a competitive game.

Hope the defense gets better. Hope turnovers are less than 12, hope FT % is more like 75% +, and hope X gets opposing team to turn the ball over more.

More possessions; more probable wins.

[GoMuskies]

Missouri State is better than maybe 4 BE teams.

Lol no. Maybe 4 Big East teams in the history of the league.

[Xville]

Let's remember that at one point last year x was 2-3. Progress!

I think at worst this team goes 10-3 in non-con, then we shall see where the team is once conference starts.

[UCGRAD4X]

Let's remember that at one point last year x was 2-3. Progress!

I think at worst this team goes 10-3 in non-con, then we shall see where the team is once conference starts.

That's true, but remember where last year's team ended up. "Better than last year" does not exactly inspire confidence.

[GoMuskies]

The competition in the first 5 was significantly saltier last year as well.

[Xville]

That's true, but remember where last year's team ended up. "Better than last year" does not exactly inspire confidence.

What I meant by this is more that we are 4-0. Yes last year the competition was presumably tougher, but this team looked like absolute crap last year in the beginning of the year and lost games. Thia year, the team just kinda looks like crap, but they are winning.

I guess all I'm saying is that it is early, the team is 4-0, and the defense is there. Hopefully, they progress on offense, even by just a bit, and if they do, the team could be somethjg special.

[stammina0721]

My God stop people. It's November the only thing that matters is wins. In March noone will remember the struggle now. Would u rather be UK losing at home to Evansville?

[American X]

Missouri State gifted that win to Xavier with the 22 turnovers. The refs tied the bow with the 4 technical fouls.

Up 56-50 at the under 4 timeout, the three bricked 3s in a row was something to marvel at. I put that on coaching. We should have done nothing but attack the basket and ice the game on free throws. Refs LOVE to call fouls, oblige them and they will reward you.

Hats off to the defensive effort. Need to push defense to offense more for some easier buckets.

(and Q just bricked another 3)

[wny08]

Missouri State gifted that win to Xavier with the 22 turnovers. The refs tied the bow with the 4 technical fouls.

Up 56-50 at the under 4 timeout, the three bricked 3s in a row was something to marvel at. I put that on coaching. We should have done nothing but attack the basket and ice the game on free throws. Refs LOVE to call fouls, oblige them and they will reward you.

Hats off to the defensive effort. Need to push defense to offense more for some easier buckets.

(and Q just bricked another 3)

This was a strange game. MS played an unusual zone, executed perfectly, that took away any rhythm that XU wanted to establish. Quite erratic officiating as well - sometimes strict, sometimes laissez faire. The flopping techs certainly favored XU, including that harsh one near the end where they should have swallowed the whistle. On the other hand, toward the end of the game Missouri State's offense was 100% dependent upon illegal (moving) screens for several possessions in a row, and for some reason the refs turned a blind eye. Reminded me of a Phil Martelli offense. Incredibly frustrating to a defense when you are busting your butt and the offense keeps gaining an unfair advantage. Just call the things that are clear fouls, but otherwise back off near the end of the game and let 'em play a little.

This would be a really interesting hypothetical rematch later in the season with better officiating, and after both teams have developed better offense, just to see if it would be a similarly awful game to watch. I'm also wondering if MS usually plays this style, or if this was a purposeful strategy to keep the game close against a (theoretically) superior opponent. Either way, hats off to them for executing well on D, hitting many tough shots, and almost getting an incredible road win.

[UCGRAD4X]

What I meant by this is more that we are 4-0. Yes last year the competition was presumably tougher, but this team looked like absolute crap last year in the beginning of the year and lost games. Thia year, the team just kinda looks like crap, but they are winning.

I guess all I'm saying is that it is early, the team is 4-0, and the defense is there. Hopefully, they progress on offense, even by just a bit, and if they do, the team could be somethjg special.


My God stop people. It's November the only thing that matters is wins. In March noone will remember the struggle now. Would u rather be UK losing at home to Evansville?


Missouri State gifted that win to Xavier with the 22 turnovers. The refs tied the bow with the 4 technical fouls.

Up 56-50 at the under 4 timeout, the three bricked 3s in a row was something to marvel at. I put that on coaching. We should have done nothing but attack the basket and ice the game on free throws. Refs LOVE to call fouls, oblige them and they will reward you.

Hats off to the defensive effort. Need to push defense to offense more for some easier buckets.

(and Q just bricked another 3)

Agree with the "I'll take it" wins, but looking at the long game and the rigors of the season and into conference play etc.....I know "a season is a lifetime" but there are legitimate reasons for concerns when a 16 pt. underdog, on our court, that gifts you 22 turnovers, flops and technicals, is BS flop call away from taking the lead with less than a minute left to go (a bull shit rule altogether, I might add).

[UCGRAD4X]

Q bricks a three (raise your hand if you are surprised) with half a minute to go and it doinks off the front of the rim and lands in Tyrique's lap.

M St. still had two tries to tie it at the buzzer.

[GIMMFD]

Did the NCAA take back one of our wins?

I go to doctor school not counting school. Math is hard.

[AviatorX]

I think we can all agree that X will be formidable if they can combine an offense at least as "good" (although, honestly it wasn't terrible, #56 on KenPom) as last season with a full season of defending like they did down the stretch in 18-19 (or better). The defense looks really, really good. There's no reason the offense shouldn't be at least as good as last season (not entertaining any Ryan Welage takes, we're better than that), even if you don't factor in whatever KyKy can bring to the table. Do we really believe last year's team was 13% better from 3? If X shoots closer to that percentage the last few weeks, they've likely comfortably beaten Mizzou and MO St and the tone of conversation around this team is totally different. Obviously I'm not saying it can't happen, but it would be truly remarkable if the shooting remained so poor. The lowest percentage in the country last year was 8% better than X is shooting right now.

That's the case for optimism and patience, although I can't blame anyone for worrying because it has been a rough start if you're one to factor in every November game as to how this team will look in February.

[xukeith]

If X simply does not turnover the ball 5 times and gets 3-4 more rebounds, X would have had 8-9 more possessions.
Those probably would lead to foul shots or at least 3 more points and 3 less points for Missouri St.
X wins by 8!

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

If X simply does not turnover the ball 5 times and gets 3-4 more rebounds, X would have had 8-9 more possessions.
Those probably would lead to foul shots or at least 3 more points and 3 less points for Missouri St.
X wins by 8!

These turnovers are maddening. And, I don't think it has anything to do with November, who is injured or whether (or not) this team is over-rated. It is sloppy f***ing basketball. Case in point...….a couple of Q's turnovers. One in particular; in second half as he was bringing the ball downcourt he tried to throw the ball over his defenders head in kind of a lazy half-a**ed manner and the guy picked it cleanly out of the air and took it the other way. We've seen that before from Q. Early in half one, on an in-bounds play in front of X bench, Q (with a defender just off his hip) failed to come and get the ball. His defender stepped in front of him and knocked the ball away. It did not result in a turnover but it was just a sloppy basketball play that had no business happening...……...something you would have gotten benched for in junior high school.

And, that's my point about this team and Q in particular. There is a kind of casualness in their approach. It has nothing to do with where we are in the season. It indicates, to me, a lack of intensity. I can live with missed shots and, to be fair, most (maybe all) of last night's three attempts were open looks. And, like others, I think the shooting, as frustrating as it is, will start to come around as we go deeper in the season. But, the turnovers are horrible and, I think, symptomatic of an attitude that needs to change.

In Charleston, I would like to see more of Moore, less of Q and Scruggs with the ball in his hands often---even if that means moving him to P.G. This should not be construed as hammering Q. I just think Moore's play has earned him additional minutes. Q's play has earned him fewer. I still think Q is one of our best defenders so we will need him on the court if X is going to win with defense this year.

But, I argue, we need to try different combinations now and see if they work. And maybe they will not work. But, I have seen Butler, Creighton, Georgetown, St. John's and Seton Hall play. All looked improved from last year (admittedly I haven't seen a great deal of any of them). We see Marquette this weekend. The Big East is going to be tough this year. it is a great conference and half-a**ed play is not going to cut it.

Round of 32 or bust!

[AviatorX]

These turnovers are maddening. And, I don't think it has anything to do with November, who is injured or whether (or not) this team is over-rated. It is sloppy f***ing basketball. Case in point...….a couple of Q's turnovers. One in particular; in second half as he was bringing the ball downcourt he tried to throw the ball over his defenders head in kind of a lazy half-a**ed manner and the guy picked it cleanly out of the air and took it the other way. We've seen that before from Q. Early in half one, on an in-bounds play in front of X bench, Q (with a defender just off his hip) failed to come and get the ball. His defender stepped in front of him and knocked the ball away. It did not result in a turnover but it was just a sloppy basketball play that had no business happening...……...something you would have gotten benched for in junior high school.

And, that's my point about this team and Q in particular. There is a kind of casualness in their approach. It has nothing to do with where we are in the season. It indicates, to me, a lack of intensity. I can live with missed shots and, to be fair, most (maybe all) of last night's three attempts were open looks. And, like others, I think the shooting, as frustrating as it is, will start to come around as we go deeper in the season. But, the turnovers are horrible and, I think, symptomatic of an attitude that needs to change.

In Charleston, I would like to see more of Moore, less of Q and Scruggs with the ball in his hands often---even if that means moving him to P.G. This should not be construed as hammering Q. I just think Moore's play has earned him additional minutes. Q's play has earned him fewer. I still think Q is one of our best defenders so we will need him on the court if X is going to win with defense this year.

But, I argue, we need to try different combinations now and see if they work. And maybe they will not work. But, I have seen Butler, Creighton, Georgetown, St. John's and Seton Hall play. All looked improved from last year (admittedly I haven't seen a great deal of any of them). We see Marquette this weekend. The Big East is going to be tough this year. it is a great conference and half-a**ed play is not going to cut it.

Round of 32 or bust!

I want to be the first on the "Big East is overrated" train. I am extremely confident Xavier will finish ahead of the teams you named in the league (except Seton Hall). I think the Big East is full of a lot of teams in the Xavier range. I won't ever write off Nova, but other than them and Seton Hall (and let's be honest, does anyone really trust them?), there just aren't BE rosters you can point to and say yeah those guys are better than X for sure.

Obviously we all watch Xavier in somewhat of a vacuum so it's easy to lose context and we'll always be harder on the Muskies, but it's pretty funny you can write such a lengthy (not undeserved) critique of Xavier's play/lack of improvement and then at the same time say Georgetown looks better - was it the come from behind win over Mt. St. Mary's or getting destroyed at home by Penn State? St. John's hasn't played anyone with a pulse and is shooting from the perimeter at an unsustainable pace (must be nice).

Just an example of something we all do. I have the same thought when people post "no way we should be ranked" and the like. Dismiss November all you want, but there aren't a lot of teams out there right now that are firing on all cylinders (or even close).

[X-band '01]

Just keep in mind that Xavier was a much worse defensive team in the first half of last season before their midseason turnaround following the DePaul loss.

Not sure if their jump shooting will improve or stagnate during the year, but Xavier would have been only 3-1 at this time last year with this schedule (and maybe 2-2). Take from that what you will.

[AviatorX]

Just keep in mind that Xavier was a much worse defensive team in the first half of last season before their midseason turnaround following the DePaul loss.

Not sure if their jump shooting will improve or stagnate during the year, but Xavier would have been only 3-1 at this time last year with this schedule (and maybe 2-2). Take from that what you will.

I really think this can't be overstated. The offense takes all the heat, but last year the issue was 10000% on the defensive end. Last years offense was good enough to get this team where they want to go.

How could anyone forget all the "Steele said this would be the best defensive team in program history" takes?

[muskieindent]

Turnovers can be improved upon. Three point shooting I don't think will. Ky Ky might be the only hope there. Expect the wins to be ugly

[AviatorX]

Turnovers can be improved upon. Three point shooting I don't think will. Ky Ky might be the only hope there. Expect the wins to be ugly

That would represent the worst season-long three point shooting performance (by more than 5%) by any D1 team since at least 2002 (as far back as KenPom goes). The shooting will level out (but will never be great).

[xukeith]

If anybody has seen Duke, they look HORRIBLE. They turn the ball over 18-23 times a game plus shoot less than 38% against lower poor D1 schools.
Their coaching MUST be awful!

[scoscox]

Turnovers can be improved upon. Three point shooting I don't think will. Ky Ky might be the only hope there. Expect the wins to be ugly

they're shooting 20%. it will undoubtedly get better. moore is a 39% shooter, carter shot 35%, tandy is apparently a nearly 50% shooter, bishop will certainly be better than the 10% he's shooting now. All of our best shooters are new. As they get more comfortable, the shooting will come.

[scoscox]

on the bright side, these close games give the coaches a lot of ammo and they'll certainly have the teams attention

[xukeith]

That would represent the worst season-long three point shooting performance (by more than 5%) by any D1 team since at least 2002 (as far back as KenPom goes). The shooting will level out (but will never be great).

Let us reflect the Virginia team who just had 2 consecutive 1 seeds. So far Virginia is the worst 3 point shooting team in the nation BUT they have the best defense.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

I want to be the first on the "Big East is overrated" train. I am extremely confident Xavier will finish ahead of the teams you named in the league (except Seton Hall). I think the Big East is full of a lot of teams in the Xavier range. I won't ever write off Nova, but other than them and Seton Hall (and let's be honest, does anyone really trust them?), there just aren't BE rosters you can point to and say yeah those guys are better than X for sure.

Obviously we all watch Xavier in somewhat of a vacuum so it's easy to lose context and we'll always be harder on the Muskies, but it's pretty funny you can write such a lengthy (not undeserved) critique of Xavier's play/lack of improvement and then at the same time say Georgetown looks better - was it the come from behind win over Mt. St. Mary's or getting destroyed at home by Penn State? St. John's hasn't played anyone with a pulse and is shooting from the perimeter at an unsustainable pace (must be nice).

Just an example of something we all do. I have the same thought when people post "no way we should be ranked" and the like. Dismiss November all you want, but there aren't a lot of teams out there right now that are firing on all cylinders (or even close).

"Improved" means vs. last year. As to your confidence level in how the conference finishes up, I'll guess we'll all find out.

[JohnW22]

These turnovers are maddening. And, I don't think it has anything to do with November, who is injured or whether (or not) this team is over-rated. It is sloppy f***ing basketball. Case in point...….a couple of Q's turnovers. One in particular; in second half as he was bringing the ball downcourt he tried to throw the ball over his defenders head in kind of a lazy half-a**ed manner and the guy picked it cleanly out of the air and took it the other way. We've seen that before from Q. Early in half one, on an in-bounds play in front of X bench, Q (with a defender just off his hip) failed to come and get the ball. His defender stepped in front of him and knocked the ball away. It did not result in a turnover but it was just a sloppy basketball play that had no business happening...……...something you would have gotten benched for in junior high school.

And, that's my point about this team and Q in particular. There is a kind of casualness in their approach. It has nothing to do with where we are in the season. It indicates, to me, a lack of intensity. I can live with missed shots and, to be fair, most (maybe all) of last night's three attempts were open looks. And, like others, I think the shooting, as frustrating as it is, will start to come around as we go deeper in the season. But, the turnovers are horrible and, I think, symptomatic of an attitude that needs to change.

In Charleston, I would like to see more of Moore, less of Q and Scruggs with the ball in his hands often---even if that means moving him to P.G. This should not be construed as hammering Q. I just think Moore's play has earned him additional minutes. Q's play has earned him fewer. I still think Q is one of our best defenders so we will need him on the court if X is going to win with defense this year.

But, I argue, we need to try different combinations now and see if they work. And maybe they will not work. But, I have seen Butler, Creighton, Georgetown, St. John's and Seton Hall play. All looked improved from last year (admittedly I haven't seen a great deal of any of them). We see Marquette this weekend. The Big East is going to be tough this year. it is a great conference and half-a**ed play is not going to cut it.

Round of 32 or bust!
Georgetown got beat down at home to Penn State, was down 18 to Mt. St Mary’s and has yet to look good. St. John’s struggled with New Hampshire, lost Ponds, Simon, and Clark from last year. Also outside of Heron and LJ they are awful. Creightons offense looks lost with no big man and their defense is bad. When they’re not in transition they struggle. Seton Hall and Butler is pretty much the same as last year. I understand we haven’t looked good so far but let’s not act like everybody else is so much better than us.

[scoscox]

Georgetown got beat down at home to Penn State, was down 18 to Mt. St Mary’s and has yet to look good. St. John’s struggled with New Hampshire, lost Ponds, Simon, and Clark from last year. Also outside of Heron and LJ they are awful. Creightons offense looks lost with no big man and their defense is bad. When they’re not in transition they struggle. Seton Hall and Butler is pretty much the same as last year. I understand we haven’t looked good so far but let’s not act like everybody else is so much better than us.

Wasn't Mo State picked to win the Valley this year? It's not the end of the world to play a close game against them. Travis definitely thought we'd have problems with them before the game.

[GIMMFD]

If anybody has seen Duke, they look HORRIBLE. They turn the ball over 18-23 times a game plus shoot less than 38% against lower poor D1 schools.
Their coaching MUST be awful!

Their shooting has been off, but the talent level is ridiculous, they don't look like the number 1 team in the nation, but then again nobody does right now. The things is Duke is a lot deeper rotation wise, and they seem to actually like playing defense. Horrible by Duke standards, but really has anybody looked amazing? UNC struggled with Gardner-Webb, UK lost, a lot of top teams haven't been blowing the doors off everybody. Just think it's that point in the season guys are getting a feel of playing against real competition and developing chemistry, which is going to be more evident in the one and done era.

[X Factor]

Villanova made 14-31 threes today...so they definitely still have shooters. Take away Gillespie's 1-7 and they were 13-24 as a team!

Xavier just doesn't have the capability of ever doing that in a game.

[scoscox]

Villanova made 14-31 threes today...so they definitely still have shooters. Take away Gillespie's 1-7 and they were 13-24 as a team!

Xavier just doesn't have the capability of ever doing that in a game.

would be nice to have cole swider

[GoMuskies]

Dook may look bad, but they have a neutral site win over Kansas to their credit.

[X-band '01]

Villanova made 14-31 threes today...so they definitely still have shooters. Take away Gillespie's 1-7 and they were 13-24 as a team!

Xavier just doesn't have the capability of ever doing that in a game.

True, but there is a gap in quality between Ohio State and OU.

[xudash]

would be nice to have cole swider

Yep. That recruiting battle still stings.

[X Factor]

True, but there is a gap in quality between Ohio State and OU.

No kidding, but Xavier couldn't make 14 threes against ANYONE. Xavier doesn't have the players capable of shooting that well even on their best night.

Xavier is going to have make 3-6 threes per game and hope their defense carries them.

[IM4X]

No kidding, but Xavier couldn't make 14 threes against ANYONE. Xavier doesn't have the players capable of shooting that well even on their best night.

Xavier is going to have make 3-6 threes per game and hope their defense carries them.

A few more than 6 3s is probably okay but your point stands... good defense and less 3s is definitely the way to go. If the team is able to play good defense (even against the three) and find they are averaging under 25% from 3... and above 40% from inside the arc, statistically it would clearly make more sense for the team to reduce their 3s and increase the shots closer to the basket.

It certainly helped when they started doing it last year.

[IM4X]

Villanova made 14-31 threes today...so they definitely still have shooters. Take away Gillespie's 1-7 and they were 13-24 as a team!

Xavier just doesn't have the capability of ever doing that in a game.

Sure they do. Just let Kyky shoot them all. Half kidding.

Maybe he develops into a more athletic version of Howard.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Sure they do. Just let Kyky shoot them all. Half kidding.

Maybe he develops into a more athletic version of Howard.

That is asking a whole lot.

If he does he will be National POY.

[D-West & PO-Z]

+Unfortunately anyone expecting to see anything change with 3 point shooting/selection (save making a few more because it can only get at least a little better right?) I think will be disappointed. Steele said as much saying he has no problem with the 3's and that X is going to keep shooting them. When I saw that quote I was a little shocked he has no problem with anything related to 3 point shooting. Not the number or the shot selection? Really?

Maybe he was just sick of questions about them and he gave that answer frustratingly?

[UCGRAD4X]

Yes, he has to be frustrated about it to, he has intimated as much recently on one of the post game interviews with B&J.

I hope the frustration is not that he has told (certain) guys not to shoot so many threes, practiced/coached alternatives and they are doing so anyway.

[scoscox]

+Unfortunately anyone expecting to see anything change with 3 point shooting/selection (save making a few more because it can only get at least a little better right?) I think will be disappointed. Steele said as much saying he has no problem with the 3's and that X is going to keep shooting them. When I saw that quote I was a little shocked he has no problem with anything related to 3 point shooting. Not the number or the shot selection? Really?

Maybe he was just sick of questions about them and he gave that answer frustratingly?

He has said something to the effect of "we have to take better shots" after every game so far. if you watch the press conference he was clearly frustrated with the question.

[scoscox]

Sure they do. Just let Kyky shoot them all. Half kidding.

Maybe he develops into a more athletic version of Howard.

well he'll definitely be more athletic

[D-West & PO-Z]

He has said something to the effect of "we have to take better shots" after every game so far. if you watch the press conference he was clearly frustrated with the question.

Seemed like a really bad answer to the question, especially considering it completely contradicted his previous statements on the question as you pointed out his previous comments.

[scoscox]

Seemed like a really bad answer to the question, especially considering it completely contradicted his previous statements on the question as you pointed out his previous comments.

he's said they need to take better shots and that they'll take the good open shots even if they aren't falling right now. not necessarily a contradiction. they take a few bad threes still, but for the most part we're missing wide open shots.

[scoscox]

Seemed like a really bad answer to the question, especially considering it completely contradicted his previous statements on the question as you pointed out his previous comments.

another reason to be encouraged is how this played out last year. we had a lot of these same problems shooting last year, but as we improved down the stretch, the shooting came arounf.