Game Thread: Xavier v. Creighton (January 11, 2019) Big East Conference Gane

[Muskie]

Xavier University Musketeers (12-4) (1-2) vs. Creighton (12-4) (1-2)
Saturday, January 11. 2020 at 2:00 p.m.
Cintas Center, Cincinnati


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[drudy23]

We are due for a solid game. I hope to god this isn't another 2 hours of endless frustration making the same mistakes.

Hopefully, we turn some corners today.

Both teams will be fighting like hell to not start 1-3, so it's not going to be easy.

[bleedXblue]

I would love to see what this team can do if they would just do 3 things consistently well.

Less than 12 TO's game- quit giving the other team free possessions

Win the rebounding battle- which used to be this programs mantra

Limit the opposition to less than 70 PPG


I'm giving up on trying to "fix" the offense b/c we just don't have the personnel and shooters.

[bleedXblue]

We are due for a solid game. I hope to god this isn't another 2 hours of endless frustration making the same mistakes.

Hopefully, we turn some corners today.

Both teams will be fighting like hell to not start 1-3, so it's not going to be easy.

Agreed. If we lose, we lose. But please quit giving the ball away and play some inspired defense please. I want to see guys diving for loose balls, creating to's and box out, rebound........

[X-man]

The game is on Fox (flagship), and one of the three commenters is Andy Katz. I would love to see a strong performance, of course, but the telecast and crew make it even more important for a good showing. Man, this team needs a win today.

[UCGRAD4X]

I see your point but I'm not sure what Katz thinks of us is the real concern. If we do something for Katz (and everyone else for that matter) is what concerns me. If we screw the pooch, that would be further evidence of the futility of this team, regardless of what somebody whose name is written on the boot of an animated toy thinks.

In a way, I think I might have just made your point.

[xukeith]

I am sure if Creighton loses to X, the Bluejay fans will be quite angry.

[paulxu]

IU/OSU making our game late.

[xudash]

We are featuring Quinn Goodman behind the arc. Most certainly, a formula for success.

[RoseyMuskie]

Nice job switching on D during the first war.

Goodin has hit his shooting quota for the day.

[IM4X]

What a surprise... Q jacking up a bunch of stupid threes.

[Lloyd Braun]

We are featuring Quinn Goodman behind the arc. Most certainly, a formula for success.

Goodman huh

One thing they need to do it get guys in spots that are easier shots. Corner 3s are easier. All our 3s are from the side wing

[SM#24]

6 3pt attempts in 4m...STUPID against this team

[Xville]

Fuck q seriously

[IM4X]

WTF coach... too many 3s. need to work it inside. That’s all on you to stop this nonsense.

[xudash]

Pull that SOB from the game!

[IM4X]

Need Jones and Scruggs back in

[paulxu]

We can really shoot the 3.

[xu koop scoop]

Win or lose, I LISTEN (like Byron & Joe analysis) to be entertained. Seems we play way too much street ball - badly

[xu82]

We can really shoot the 3.

That’s a well proven fact!

Now....if only we could MAKE the 3!

[Xville]

Q can sit the rest of the damn game. I'll live with mistakes from a freshman

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Nice job switching on D during the first war.

Goodin has hit his shooting quota for the day.

Uh Oh, was I supposed to write and send him the memo? Jeez, sorry. I forgot.

[SM#24]

It’s what parents teach their kids against...”hey little boy, come into the van and I’ll give you some candy”
That’s how we are with 3s. It’s not going to end well.

[RoseyMuskie]

Uh Oh, was I supposed to write and send him the memo? Jeez, sorry. I forgot.

What does that even mean? You want Q to keep shooting? Just a different way to write “I’ve seen enough.”

[paulxu]

1/10 on 3's. 0/5 for Goodin.

There's a teaching moment there somewhere.

[IM4X]

Steele is pissing me off now.

stop this 3 crap coach.

[paulxu]

May bad. 1/12.

[Lloyd Braun]

Steele is pissing me off now.

stop this 3 crap coach.

I don’t think he is shooting them.

[IM4X]

It’s time to bench Steele... we need someone who is actually going to coach this team today!

[paulxu]

I wish the announcers were off the mark about us.

But they are dead on.

[Lloyd Braun]

Again all their 3s are from the wing. Get to the corner!

[IM4X]

I don’t think he is shooting them.

well he isn’t stopping them from shooting so many stupid shots and he is the guy who claims “if they are open looks- take them” which is a stupid philosophy when the guys shooting it absolutely suck at shooting.” There I said it.

Work it inside dummies. Only let Scruggs (and maybe) Scruggs shoot.

[Lloyd Braun]

Every brick and air ball made me laugh harder. It’s just too comical how awful they are shooting.

[AviatorX]

It would be a lot easier to play inside out if X had a reliable big guy they could play through. They really don’t have anything close. That’s an underrated problem because the shooting is so in your face ugly, but it’s a problem for sure.

Tyrique’s finishing leaves A LOT to be desired. Especially against big men with a pulse.

If you’re going to try to force an inefficient style down opponents throats, you need your big to be concerting at the rim efficiently at least.

[Lloyd Braun]

well he isn’t stopping them from shooting so many stupid shots and he is the guy who claims “if they are open looks- take them” which is a stupid philosophy when the guys shooting it absolutely suck.” There I said it.

If they suck then there is not much chance of winning anyways. They’re packing the lane because we can’t shoot. It’s what every team does against us.

[whopper]

it seems our only hope is to have Marshall, Scruggs and jones on floor entire game. Not viable in this day and age. Damn that it is in Q's head now and I know he thinks the next one will go down. Carter indecisive now and bench just disappeared. I am hopeful that this changes but hope is sometimes not a strategy

[SM#24]

How about no 3s today. We can kill this team inside. And I don’t want to hear any shit about it’s a good look. 1-12...enough said. If we don’t another 3 the rest of the game, we win by 15.

[X Factor]

Watching this team is absolutely painful.

I've seen 4th graders who can shoot better than this team.

Goodin is 0-6, but KyKy cant see extended minutes.

[Lloyd Braun]

This lineup is interesting:
Tandy, Scruggs, Marshall, Fremantle, Carter

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Why is Q taking 6 3pt shots and missing them all? Is he our designated 3 pt. shooter?

[AviatorX]

Does KyKy just get a total pass for throwing possessions in the trash? Legitimate question.

[Xville]

Steele should sit q rest of game, and let tandy play theu some mistakes.

[RoseyMuskie]

I think Steele is sending a message to Q right now.

[drudy23]

There's a reason we're open.

Packing the paint.

Play multiple bigs.

[xu koop scoop]

As a 68 yr old who started watching bball seriously in 1960 - the 3 pt shot has ruined the game - regardless if you are good at them or suck. I like to see lots of passing, cutting, weaving & working for a good shot. The NBA Warriors helped take this 3 pt shooting to ridiculous levels. Nova & others on the college level did the same.

[AviatorX]

Steele should sit q rest of game, and let tandy play theu some mistakes.

He’s taken X’s three worst shots today and been roasted on defense a few times. He gets a longer leash but he is very much part of the problem today.

[drudy23]

Does KyKy just get a total pass for throwing possessions in the trash? Legitimate question.

No - he takes some terrible shots too.

But who is he supposed to learn from? This team is ridiculously dumb at basketball.

[IM4X]

Why are our bigs so far away from the basket on offense when shots go up. Every time a big shoots there is absolutely none underneath to get a rebound... wha it’s going on!!!!

this is BS... I am not giving Steele a pass... this is just Stupid.

[Lloyd Braun]

I want to see Don and Schrand jack a couple 3s too just to see

[GoMuskies]

We are a real mess on offense. Front page news, I know.

[Muskie]

Does KyKy just get a total pass for throwing possessions in the trash? Legitimate question.

Apparently he does. He will get a pass because he’s the anointed one


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[paulxu]

My eyes hurt.
But maybe Steele told Q not to shoot a 3 anymore, as he is given 5 feet every time to do it by the Jays.
Meanwhile, hero ball may be coming soon.

1/15. Most of them wide open. Grade school teams shoot better.

[Xville]

He’s taken X’s three worst shots today and been roasted on defense a few times. He gets a longer leash but he is very much part of the problem today.

Kyky can shoot, q cant. I'll take playing thru freshmen mistakes when they are freshmen, not seniors

[RoseyMuskie]

I get this team is never going to be good from three.

But I also don’t understand how guys who shoot so many shots in practice can go 1-15, especially when 10-12 have been relatively open.

[whopper]

Why are our bigs so far away from the basket on offense when shots go up. Every time a big shoots there is absolutely none underneath to get a rebound... wha it’s going on!!!!

this is BS... I am not giving Steele a pass... this is just Stupid.I have been looking for offensive rebounds and seen none; they are blocking out well but not that well. This is the worst offensive game I have ever seen Xavier play. WE HAVE NOT TAKEN A FOUL SHOT!!!! It is a miracle we are down by 5

[drudy23]

We should be down by 15.

[Xavgrad08]

I hope Scruggs is ok. Bizarre looking play. I am not sure what our offensive identity is. Chuck three’s and hope the go in?

[Muskie in dayton]

I have been looking for offensive rebounds and seen none; they are blocking out well but not that well. This is the worst offensive game I have ever seen Xavier play
This team is regressing at an alarming pace.

[xu koop scoop]

We should be down by 15.

that's what i was thinking. so are Creighton fans. this resembles a bad A10 game. No, a bad Horizon League game. Or a High School game with high school turnovers. And high school 3 pointers.

[AviatorX]

Kyky can shoot, q cant. I'll take playing thru freshmen mistakes when they are freshmen, not seniors

He just dribbled into two absolutely terrible mid range shots. Inefficient is inefficient when this teams margin for error is what it is.

I don’t care what threes he shoots. But those were awful and selfish plays.

[IM4X]

If they suck then there is not much chance of winning anyways. They’re packing the lane because we can’t shoot. It’s what every team does against us.

1. If we are going to shoot threes - and we should never be shooting nearly this many at this point - Scruggs should be shootinf
most of them... but no... Q is shooting an absurd amount - and the coach should be telling him
he has no business doing it.

2. we can work it inside when Jones is in there- but our other bigs are useless now... as a matter of fact our bigs aren’t even near the basket (unless Jones is in) when any shots go up.

3. Burn the redshirt of Miles already... Carter and Freemantle can’t get rebounds and they can’t defend/block worth beans.

[paulxu]

Naji looks totally uninterested in this game

[JTG]

What the hell is with the pushoffs by 24 on every trip. Somenoby needs to put an elbow in that clown's ear.

[Lloyd Braun]

1. If we are going to shoot threes - and we should never be shooting nearly this many at this point - Scruggs should be shootinf
most of them... but no... Q is shooting an absurd amount - and the coach should be telling him
he has no business doing it.

2. we can work it inside when Jones is in there- but our other bigs are useless now... as a matter of fact our bigs aren’t even near the basket (unless Jones is in) when any shots go up.

3. Burn the redshirt of Miles already... Carter and Freemantle can’t get rebounds and they can’t defend/block worth beans.

Agree with all of this but when you watch the game Q is wide open and Scruggs/Marshall are doubled. I expect some halftime adjustments. Their set plays are actually very effective but the guys aren’t executing and Freemantles hands seem to be stone.

[GoMuskies]

Naji looks totally uninterested in this game

Naji making a move to break a guy's ankles and then throwing up a rock from the foul line was peak Naji.

[drudy23]

McDermott's halftime interview:

"Yeah we missed alot of shots, but I'm fine with it if the right guys are taking the right shots"

Novel concept.

[kellernr]

Run tandy to start the 2nd half. I dont think I've seen Q fight to go over a screen all year. Every damn time he goes under then watches his guy drain 3 after 3.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[Xville]

I dont even know what to say with this team anymore....lose this game to crighton at home and apathy may set in.

[xu82]

Are we having fun yet?

I’m glad we are only down 5 after watching that hot mess.

[bourbonman]

Naji looks totally uninterested in this game

I get the sense he’s frustrated. He has to be exhausted when opposing defenses that he’s pretty much our only consistent option is him.

[IM4X]

I have been looking for offensive rebounds and seen none; they are blocking out well but not that well. This is the worst offensive game I have ever seen Xavier play. WE HAVE NOT TAKEN A FOUL SHOT!!!! It is a miracle we are down by 5


Yes... not driving and trying to draw contact is a major no-no... and it is why I put a lot of blame on coach Steele... that is what he is supposed to be saying in the huddle... not “have fun”

[xudash]

I know we all I have different cable or satellite systems, but I just wanted you to know that I am missing Princess Bride for this, along with Pati’s Mexican Table on PBS.

[bourbonman]

I’m ready for the future even if it means freshman mistakes. Need more KyKy and less Q.

[Caf]

Goodin is 0-16 from 3 since TCU.

[AviatorX]

1. If we are going to shoot threes - and we should never be shooting nearly this many at this point - Scruggs should be shootinf
most of them... but no... Q is shooting an absurd amount - and the coach should be telling him
he has no business doing it.

2. we can work it inside when Jones is in there- but our other bigs are useless now... as a matter of fact our bigs aren’t even near the basket (unless Jones is in) when any shots go up.

3. Burn the redshirt of Miles already... Carter and Freemantle can’t get rebounds and they can’t defend/block worth beans.

None of the bigs are good enough to play through.

[Lloyd Braun]

Goodin is 0-16 from 3 since TCU.

He's due!

[X Factor]

Goodin is 0-16 from 3 since TCU.

0-15 in BE play!! :drool:

[Lloyd Braun]

One thing is for sure, win or lose they won’t stop fighting!

[X-band '01]

https://youtu.be/rrR34Dl8UuQ?t=107

[xu82]

I wonder if any of those kids on the All For One commercial can shoot a 3? We should look into that!

[Caf]

0-15 in BE play!! :drool:

The worst part is they're all uncontested. Just use the space to drive man - come on.

[xu82]

Goodin is 0-16 from 3 since TCU.


I’ll give him credit for perseverance!


If he hits just one, will he stop?

[xu koop scoop]

Goodin is 0-16 from 3 since TCU.

The 0 doesn't bother me. It's the 16. Anybody know what the most consecutive missed 3's record is for XU? or missed 3's Nation Wide?

[IM4X]

Agree with all of this but when you watch the game Q is wide open and Scruggs/Marshall are doubled. I expect some halftime adjustments. Their set plays are actually very effective but the guys aren’t executing and Freemantles hands seem to be stone.

Steele brags about How Miles catches everything thrown to him in the paint. How easy it is to get him the ball because he is so tall with such a long wingspan, how he keeps getting so much better and everyone who comes to visit is in awe of him... and then... “I feel good about him redshirting.”

Really coach. Do you see how badly he is needed. If you burn his redshirt, he can seriously help this team. Guaranteed he won’t be 15 feet fro the basket when a shot goes up like Carter and even sometimes like Freemantle.

We need Miles!!!! Burn his Redshirt.... burn it now!!!!

[xu koop scoop]

Our 0 for 0 at the FT line is very bothersome.

[AviatorX]

Steele brags about How Miles catches everything thrown to him in the paint. How easy it is to get him the ball because he is so tall with such a long wingspan, how he keeps getting so much better and everyone who comes to visit is in awe of him... and then... “I feel good about him redshirting.”

Really coach. Do you see how badly he is needed. If you burn his redshirt, he can seriously help this team. Guaranteed he won’t be 15 feet fro the basket when a shot goes up like Carter and even sometimes like Freemantle.

We need Miles!!!! Burn his Redshirt.... burn it now!!!!

This is an impressively bad take. It continues to amaze me how some on this board apparently think Steele doesn’t approach things trying to win as many games as possible. If Miles could make an immediate impact, he wouldn’t be redshirting, or realistically even at Xavier with his physical attributes.

[xu koop scoop]

Coach obviously can't see for Miles & Miles. Who does he think he is.

[noteggs]

It may have been discussed, but at game and not following. The lane is so so packed. Naji and Rique are getting swarmed in the lane. Not sure what to say. I don’t think we have any bench points. That’s what also killed us in our 4 loses. Think only 21 in those.

[xu koop scoop]

putting up info on this game thread is more entertaining than the game itself. ready to see the Vikings upset the 49ers.

[xukeith]

Hope X can get fouls drawn on CU and make a lot of free throws. Jones is dependable. Scruggs is solid. Need X to play smart and stop throwing the ball away.

[paulxu]

Wonder how often we have had a half without a foul shot?

[vee4xu]

Something' ain't right. I can't put a finger on it, but all of last year and so far this year something' just ain't right.

[Xville]

This team gets beat by ball screens like 4th graders

[Lloyd Braun]

Something' ain't right. I can't put a finger on it, but all of last year and so far this year something' just ain't right.

Poor chemistry perhaps.

[GoMuskies]

Sweet second half start. Is there such a thing as an anti kill? If so, we're close to 2 in a row.

[Xavgrad08]

This team is certainly frustrating to watch. Missing the NCAA tournament two years in a row would certainly damage the “Basketball Brand”.

[Xville]

Losing by 11 at home to an average Creighton team...embarrassing

[JTG]

What kind of stupid def has the center guarding a 3 pt shooter at the arc ? This is excruciatingly stupid

[X Factor]

I'm sure we'll hear more "at least they didnt give up"

[AviatorX]

What kind of stupid def has the center guarding a 3 pt shooter at the arc ? This is excruciatingly stupid

What would you suggest? Creighton converted threes against both a hedge and switch in that stretch. There’s a reason the saying is good offense beats good defense.

[bourbonman]

The worst part is they're all uncontested. Just use the space to drive man - come on.

Of course they’re uncontested. FOX even showed how they play off him to sag in the middle or focus on Marshall. Time to move to the future in playing kids.

[vee4xu]

These days, there are lots more of you who follow men's basketball much more closely than me, but my sense is it's coaching. And, not just the head coach. In the past, Xavier had a good stable of assistant coaches. Overall, I don't think the coaches, all of them, have grown in the job. Those of you who follow more closely than me, is this a fair assessement? Or, many times assistants who are great recruiters are not that good at sitting in the main chair on the bench. Is it possible that Coach Steele is one such person, great recruiter who's skills don't translate to running an entire program? Again, I just don't have enough context, but it feels that way to me in my limited knowledge.

[jhelmes37]

Signs of life?

I hope they notice this surge came from attacking the rim...

[Lloyd Braun]

Signs of life?

I hope they notice this surge came from attacking the rim...

This is exactly like the game we just watched Wednesday.

[kellernr]

Tandy benched? Looks to be the only one still in sweats on the bench?

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[drudy23]

These days, there are lots more of you who follow men's basketball much more closely than me, but my sense is it's coaching. And, not just the head coach. In the past, Xavier had a good stable of assistant coaches. Overall, I don't think the coaches, all of them, have grown in the job. Those of you who follow more closely than me, is this a fair assessement? Or, many times assistants who are great recruiters are not that good at sitting in the main chair on the bench. Is it possible that Coach Steele is one such person, great recruiter who's skills don't translate to running an entire program? Again, I just don't have enough context, but it feels that way to me in my limited knowledge.

Probably a little early to say this, but they certainly haven't done anything collectively to refute your point.

[GoMuskies]

Defensive intensity way up.

[drudy23]

I just nodded off for the first half of the second half and we're only down 4.

Maybe that's the key.

[Xville]

This x team is beyond soft...I thought freemantle had grit? Guy is playing like a care bear

[kellernr]

Has an X coach ever been fired? If not I think steel will be the 1st.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[RoseyMuskie]

Need to get Jones back in. Free is soft today.

[jhelmes37]

Has an X coach ever been fired? If not I think steel will be the 1st.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

Easy now...

[bourbonman]

Easy now...

Come on. There hasn’t been a 2nd or 3rd year coach we haven’t asked to have fired. Best get used to this since it’ll be oft repeated through next season. Sadly.

[whopper]

if our secondary players have ZERO confidence we can't win. This box score of 5 players scoring and it being a close game is fool's gold..Marshall, Scruggs, Carter, Jones have all points but 2 (free mantle)..same as last game.

[Xville]

Hopefully this will be one of those "well at least we won" games

[GoMuskies]

Get Naji some help. And no more crazy threes Naji. Your quota for the day has already gone in.

[paulxu]

Well, it's getting competitive at least.

Come on X. Let's win one.

[kellernr]

Easy now...Steel claims Tandy is the best shooter by far on the team yet he runs Q and Moore who are probably 2 of the worst shooters on the team. Claims Miles catches everything thrown to him and runs the floor great but wastes a redshirt on him when this team needs serious rebounding help. 7 min to go and Tandy hasnt seen the floor.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[IM4X]

This is an impressively bad take. It continues to amaze me how some on this board apparently think Steele doesn’t approach things trying to win as many games as possible. If Miles could make an immediate impact, he wouldn’t be redshirting, or realistically even at Xavier with his physical attributes.


I think your response is an impressively bad post.

Are you related to Steele or do you just think every X coach is the rebirth of our lord Jesus Christ... and we all must believe in every single thing they say and do... because they are unable to make mistakes.

Honestly... If anyone questions a coach’s decision, you seem to suggest it simply blasphemy.

Do I have that about right?

[X Factor]

I hate our chances in a close game. We always make a dumb mistake or two or someone plays hero ball and we fall apart.

[bourbonman]

Naji looks totally uninterested in this game

He’s just carrying the team.

[drudy23]

Just win - I wont complain with a W.

I will with an L. I don''t want to complain anymore.

[paulxu]

Couple chances to tie and we come up empty.

Got get stops.

[IM4X]

Okay - got to work it to Scruggs.... only Scruggs

[Xville]

What the hell does bryce fucking moore do to get run seriously....steele is fucking pissing me off

[drudy23]

We're in trouble folks.

Game trouble and season trouble.

[Xville]

Dagger!!! Steele should be absolutely slammed for his handling of the team today absolutely inexcusable.....joke coaching today.

[AviatorX]

I think your response is an impressively bad post.

Are you related to Steele or do you just think every X coach is the rebirth of our lord Jesus Christ... and we all must believe in every single thing they say and do... because they are unable to make mistakes.

Honestly... If anyone questions a coach’s decision, you seem to suggest it simply blasphemy.

Do I have that about right?

I have plenty of criticism of Steele (and Mack before him). I just choose not to make them aggressively stupid, like calling for the burning of a redshirt in January of a project recruit so he can play spot minutes as a third string center.

[GoMuskies]

I mean, did Steele not consider that the guys giving all that effort might get tired?

[IM4X]

Coaching has been atrocious today.

No way around it.

[Lloyd Braun]

I mean, did Steele not consider that the guys giving all that effort might get tired?

He didn’t want anyone on the message boards to yell at him for taking out the guys who are playing well!

[RoseyMuskie]

Naji has been awesome today.

The combo and Moore and Goodin have been horrendous. If they shoot 25%, X is within a single possession.

[kellernr]

What the hell does bryce fucking moore do to get run seriously....steele is fucking pissing me offX was due for a dud hiring.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[whopper]

What the hell does bryce fucking moore do to get run seriously....steele is fucking pissing me offI
My heart goes out to the role players..we did not crush the early schedule so did not get a chance to work them in. Moore and Q have lost all confidence and so has Tandy... We are getting crushed on ball movement and the skill of Alexander and Ballock is very high. What changes it? I don't know

[GoMuskies]

Two more anti kills

[X Factor]

Bye bye NCAA tournament. This team is so dysfunctional.

Play Tandy!!!

[paulxu]

We can dissect this all year.
But for me, the one gaping hole in this team is a lack of 3 pt shooters.
It's killing us, game after game. It makes us one dimensional, taking away motion opportunities for all sorts of plays.
Very disheartening.

I appreciate the effort these guys are given, but the BE will be a meat grinder.
Maybe like last year they'll come together, but too late.
Steele can't shoot the damn 3 himself.

[bjf123]

Bye bye NCAA tournament. This team is so dysfunctional.

Play Tandy!!!

If that happens, Steele’s seat officially becomes hot.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[drudy23]

We have more than one gaping hole.

[Xville]

Nit two years in a row....wow. can this core just be gone...page needs to be turned badly

[stammina0721]

Bye bye NCAA tournament. This team is so dysfunctional.

Play Tandy!!!

It's a Cincinnati sports team. Did you expect anything different? This city did something wrong cause all of our teams now are cursed

[GoMuskies]

If that happens, Steele’s seat officially becomes hot.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Nah, he'll have to fail with his own roster for there to be any real heat.

[RoseyMuskie]

Curious to see Goodin’s role on this team moving forward.

He’s simply not a fit for a team that is weak from three point range.

Might be at the point where you just live and die with Tandy.

[xukeith]

Ok so I don't believe X can get enough wins away from Cintas. I see X beating Hoyas, SJU, and DePaul. 6 more wins maybe. The BE is simply way too strong this year. I can't believe I am witnessing this. X would be better in A10 and beating inferior competition.

Only hope is 9-9 conference record. Where will 8 wins come from?

[Xville]

We can dissect this all year.
But for me, the one gaping hole in this team is a lack of 3 pt shooters.
It's killing us, game after game. It makes us one dimensional, taking away motion opportunities for all sorts of plays.
Very disheartening.

I appreciate the effort these guys are given, but the BE will be a meat grinder.
Maybe like last year they'll come together, but too late.
Steele can't shoot the damn 3 himself.

This is why it is flipping retarded for q to continue to be in the starting lineup and jack up 3s at the beginning of games. He needs to come off the bench, tandy starts and sets a tone. Steele needs to wake the fuck up that the same shit every damn game isnt working. If I see the same starting lineup next game, I'll know Steele doesnt have a damn clue or is too much of a pussy to make a change.

[AviatorX]

Nah, he'll have to fail with his own roster for there to be any real heat.

Seriously. I mean I know Xavier fans are a bit unrealistic about where the program falls in the CBB landscape, but this is very much not a program where a coach is on the hot seat in year two (outside of off the court problems).

Don’t think there’s gonna be a long line of great coaches who want to come to a place where you generally can’t recruit McDonald’s All Americans, get paid below absolute top dollar and have that short of a leash.

[IM4X]

I have plenty of criticism of Steele (and Mack before him). I just choose not to make them aggressively stupid, like calling for the burning of a redshirt in January of a project recruit so he can play spot minutes as a third string center.

the only thing that is stupid is you calling other poster’s completely reasonable comments stupid.

But feel free to keep it up... because you must know all.

Third string? you are funny.

1. He is 6’ll
2. He blocks shots much better than anyone on the team. How many times have we seen bigs especially Carter and Freemantle allow buckets drop in the just over their reach. Miles would be blocking those shots
4. He would play closer to the rim and rebound much better than Zack and Jason.
5. He has different and much needed skills we aren’t seeing out of our two new bigs.

Open your eyes a bit.

[Xville]

Ok so I don't believe X can get enough wins away from Cintas. I see X beating Hoyas, SJU, and DePaul. 6 more wins maybe. The BE is simply way too strong this year. I can't believe I am witnessing this. X would be better in A10 and beating inferior competition.

Only hope is 9-9 conference record. Where will 8 wins come from?

9-9 isnt happening unless things drastically change....lineup absolutely has to change.

[GoMuskies]

Seriously. I mean I know Xavier fans are a bit unrealistic about where the program falls in the CBB landscape, but this is very much not a program where a coach is on the hot seat in year two (outside of off the court problems).

In fairness, we don't know that, because we haven't had a coach in 40 years fail to make the NCAA Tournament his first two years. So Travis could be in uncharted waters.

[stammina0721]

My God will you all stop. You wanted big boy basketball and you're getting it. This is life in a perennial top 2 conference so suck it up. Guess what... This team is going to do this to someone down the line. When all the teams in a conference are awesome this happens. I wouldn't be shocked to X pull off a win at like a Marquette or something. All the teams are going to go through hot streaks and lulls. X is in a lull right now. They will streak at some point

[vee4xu]

I don't know what's going on, but someone who does needs to figure it out fast and fix it.

[xukeith]

Steele probably has 2 more years before he is on hot seat.

[bourbonman]

I’m in favor of a rule change. If you’re fouled in last minute you get the choice of possession or FT.

[whopper]

my vote for turning point is Ballock block of Freemantle dunk (which was legitimate..he guessed right and Zach kind of had a hitch). Many others though(2 of Bishops slip to hoop, Ballock last 3) but I will remember thane

[GoMuskies]

I’m in favor of a rule change. If you’re fouled in last minute you get the choice of possession or FT.

Louisville vs Xavier. Great Alaska Shootout 1999.

[AviatorX]

the only thing that is stupid is you calling other posters completely reasonable comments stupid.

But feel free to keep it up... because you must know all.

Third string? you are funny.

1. He is 6’ll
2. He blocks shots much better than anyone on the team. How many times have we seen bigs especially Carter and Freemantle allow buckets drop in the just over their reach. Miles would be blocking those shots
4. He would play closer to the rim and rebound much better than Zack and Jason.
5. He has different and much needed skills we aren’t seeing out of our two new bigs.

Open your eyes a bit.

Wait, did I black out and miss Miles doing all of this stuff in high major college ball? Or are we talking about the low 3 star recruit who had no other high major offers?

What stats do you think he’d be putting up this season? I’m sure you’re answer is going to be incredible.

[bjf123]

In fairness, we don't know that, because we haven't had a coach in 40 years fail to make the NCAA Tournament his first two years. So Travis could be in uncharted waters.

Yep. The talent on this team is certainly capable of making the NCAA tourney. Not making it two years in a row makes the seat hot, at least in the minds of a lot of fans, including at least one former player I know. We were talking about that earlier this week. He’s rapidly losing confidence in Steele’s coaching ability, though he also says some of it might the players just not getting it.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[GoMuskies]

I do think AviatorX might have done well as Iraqi information minister.

[Xville]

My God will you all stop. You wanted big boy basketball and you're getting it. This is life in a perennial top 2 conference so suck it up. Guess what... This team is going to do this to someone down the line. When all the teams in a conference are awesome this happens. I wouldn't be shocked to X pull off a win at like a Marquette or something. All the teams are going to go through hot streaks and lulls. X is in a lull right now. They will streak at some point

Creighton is not awesome so please stop.

[AviatorX]

In fairness, we don't know that, because we haven't had a coach in 40 years fail to make the NCAA Tournament his first two years. So Travis could be in uncharted waters.

This is a fair point but I feel pretty confident about my post. The uncharted waters cut both ways also - no chance in hell Miller’s second team makes the NCAA’s out of the Big East.

[xukeith]

the only thing that is stupid is you calling other poster’s completely reasonable comments stupid.

But feel free to keep it up... because you must know all.

Third string? you are funny.

1. He is 6’ll
2. He blocks shots much better than anyone on the team. How many times have we seen bigs especially Carter and Freemantle allow buckets drop in the just over their reach. Miles would be blocking those shots
4. He would play closer to the rim and rebound much better than Zack and Jason.
5. He has different and much needed skills we aren’t seeing out of our two new bigs.

Open your eyes a bit.

We don't know anything about Miles other than what his coach says about him on the radio. If KyKy struggles to learn the speed of the game, Dionte will have at least another year to add experience. Freemantle is rough looking as a frosh because it is defense he never learned to play. Miles is a project that might be good after next year. Just because a guy is redshirted, doesn't mean he will be an great contributor when he plays.

[IM4X]

Okay... so the one guy who should be shooting most 3s today only gets his second look now at the end of the game... just beautiful.

[GoMuskies]

This is a fair point but I feel pretty confident about my post. The uncharted waters cut both ways also - no chance in hell Miller’s second team makes the NCAA’s out of the Big East.

That team would have been substantially better if recruited to play in the Big East, though. And it really doesn't cut any way. It just flat out hasn't happened in 40 years.

[Xavgrad08]

Steele will get four years regardless. Recruiting might get a little tougher going forward if we miss the dance this year. This roster has offensive deficiencies, but we are not maxing out what we have. Still plenty of opportunities for some big wins. Unfortunately we have not been good for most of this year.

[AviatorX]

I do think AviatorX might have done well as Iraqi information minister.

I’m not sure why I’m being painted as some “all is well” propagandist. I have been consistent since the preseason in thinking this is a 7-11 seed that would need a lot to go right to make the second weekend. I’ll be disappointed in anything less than that, and it sure looks like I’m going to be disappointed.

That doesn’t mean I can’t simultaneously point out how ridiculous some criticisms are - burning the redshirt on Miles certainly take the cake to this point.

This is Xavier, not Kentucky. Steele is going to get his time, especially in light of the talent infusion he appears to be bringing in.

[xukeith]

It might be nice to be in a weak conference to win every year vs. play in a league where you are a top 6 seed every 3rd year with better recruits and better TV package.

[xudash]

We can dissect this all year.
But for me, the one gaping hole in this team is a lack of 3 pt shooters.
It's killing us, game after game. It makes us one dimensional, taking away motion opportunities for all sorts of plays.
Very disheartening.

I appreciate the effort these guys are given, but the BE will be a meat grinder.
Maybe like last year they'll come together, but too late.
Steele can't shoot the damn 3 himself.

I totally agree.

For those of you who believe Steele should be fired immediately, and I do understand that this is rather anecdotal, go look up Jay Wright’s record at Villanova in his first three years.

Nonetheless, we are in for a long year. There isn’t enough talent behind the arc and collective talent above the neck for this team to turn it around and have a successful season.

[Xville]

I’m not sure why I’m being painted as some “all is well” propagandist. I have been consistent since the preseason in thinking this is a 7-11 seed that would need a lot to go right to make the second weekend. I’ll be disappointed in anything less than that, and it sure looks like I’m going to be disappointed.

That doesn’t mean I can’t simultaneously point out how ridiculous some criticisms are - burning the redshirt on Miles certainly take the cake to this point.

Burning Miles redshirt is pretty hysterical. The guy looked effing awkward in high school and suddenly people on here act like he is going to contribute at the high major d1 level as a freshman.

[xukeith]

Notre Dame lost today. they are 1-4 in a ACC and not looking anything like a tourney team .

[GoMuskies]

It might be nice to be in a weak conference to win every year vs. play in a league where you are a top 6 seed every 3rd year with better recruits and better TV package.

I assume this is sarcasm.

[stammina0721]

Creighton is not awesome so please stop.

Please this whole league is awesome. Go enjoy your pity party with yourself.

[xudash]

It might be nice to be in a weak conference to win every year vs. play in a league where you are a top 6 seed every 3rd year with better recruits and better TV package.

I will hold back: did you type this with sarcasm intended?

[AviatorX]

That team would have been substantially better if recruited to play in the Big East, though. And it really doesn't cut any way. It just flat out hasn't happened in 40 years.

Ok, fine. It hasn’t happened in 40 years. That’s a fact. It’s obviously not a fact that Xavier isn’t the kind of program where coaches are on the hot seat that quickly, but I’d say anyone reasonable understands that is likely the case.

[bjf123]

I totally agree.

For those of you who believe Steele should be fired immediately, and I do understand that this is rather anecdotal, go look up Jay Wright’s record at Villanova in his first three years.

Nonetheless, we are in for a long year. There isn’t enough talent behind the arc and collective talent above the neck for this team to turn it around and have a successful season.

What were the expectations when Jay Wright started at Villanova? Had they been consistently in the tourney with Sweet 16 and Elite 8 runs? Was he brought in to try to resurrect a so so program? The former doesn’t give you the same amount of time as the latter.

I’m not saying he should be fired immediately. I’m saying he might not get 4 years. He’ll get 3 for sure.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

My God will you all stop. You wanted big boy basketball and you're getting it. This is life in a perennial top 2 conference so suck it up. Guess what... This team is going to do this to someone down the line. When all the teams in a conference are awesome this happens. I wouldn't be shocked to X pull off a win at like a Marquette or something. All the teams are going to go through hot streaks and lulls. X is in a lull right now. They will streak at some point

You may be right. I hope you are and something causes this team to catch fire soon + go on a win streak. I've stated previously that I would ecstatic if this team finishes .500 in conference. But, I also think it is quite possible that it implodes and heads in the other direction.

[AviatorX]

What were the expectations when Jay Wright started at Villanova? Had they been consistently in the tourney with Sweet 16 and Elite 8 runs? Was he brought in to try to resurrect a so so program? The former doesn’t give you the same amount of time as the latter.

I’m not saying he should be fired immediately. I’m saying he might not get 4 years. He’ll get 3 for sure.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Maybe I’m wrong, but I’d be absolutely floored if Steele was fired after 3 years (again, short of some scandal).

[GoMuskies]

Maybe I’m wrong, but I’d be absolutely floored if Steele was fired after 3 years (again, short of some scandal).

Agree with this. Unless year 2 implodes and year 3 is a disaster. I'll be floored if that happens, but I do think there's a scenario where there has to be a change after three years.

[IM4X]

We don't know anything about Miles other than what his coach says about him on the radio. If KyKy struggles to learn the speed of the game, Dionte will have at least another year to add experience. Freemantle is rough looking as a frosh because it is defense he never learned to play. Miles is a project that might be good after next year. Just because a guy is redshirted, doesn't mean he will be an great contributor when he plays.

We don’t need him to score 20 points. We just need a 6’ 11” in there who can block a few more shots getting a few more rebounds than we have seen from these other new players. No question he will be even better next year, but Steel redshirted him because he thought he was not needed. Right now nothing can be further from the truth. Steele recently commented on how impressed a friend of his (who is a coach) was with Miles when he saw him recently in practice.

Is there honestly anyone who thinks this team wouldn’t benefit by having a 6’ 11” target inside to make it easy to throw to and who could easily kick it back out or dunk it or at least draw fouls... plus someone who could block more shots and rebound a little more.... plus it makes him him more battle tested for next year. We lose Jones next year. How much better and how much more confidence will he have next year if he plays in big games this year?

I would argue... he would benefit and the team would benefit immensely.

[Blue Blooded-05]

Maybe I’m wrong, but I’d be absolutely floored if Steele was fired after 3 years (again, short of some scandal).

Let’s collect our money and start giving recruits $100 handshakes...

[xukeith]

Well OSU has lost 3 straight. Their fans are ready to fire Holtmann. UCLA isn't happy with Cronin. UC isn't happy with Brannen. We X fans have been spoiled. Oh well. Here is hoping a miracle like last year springs forward.

[Xville]

I'd love to see year 3 with naji and paul as seniors and with q finally off this roster. However, I think it is about a 5% chance naji and paul are still here next year.

Steele is going to need 4 years because next years roster is most likely going to be insanely young

[GoMuskies]

Let’s collect our money and start giving recruits $100 handshakes...

$100 handshakes?!? Do you think we're still in the A-10?

[Jehoya]

Notre Dame lost today. they are 1-4 in a ACC and not looking anything like a tourney team .


Um, okay lol

[AviatorX]

We don’t need him to score 20 points. We just need a 6’ 11” in there who can block a few more shots getting a few more rebounds than we have seen from these other new players. No question he will be even better next year, but Steel redshirted him because he thought he was not needed. Right now nothing can be further from the truth. Steele recently commented on how impressed a friend of his (who is a coach) was with Miles when he saw him recently in practice.

Is there honestly anyone who thinks this team wouldn’t benefit by having a 6’ 11” target inside to make it easy to throw to and who could easily kick it back out or dunk it or at least draw fouls... plus someone who could block more shots and rebound a little more.... plus it makes him him more battle tested for next year. We lose Jones next year. How much better and how much more confidence will he have next year if he plays in big games this year?

I would argue... he would benefit and the team would benefit immensely.

Would really love to see a Miles stat projection from you. I would bet he’d be playing less than 5 minutes a game.

[Blue Blooded-05]

$100 handshakes?!? Do you think we're still in the A-10?

Lol...Yeah, I guess being discreet isn’t the objective

[XUGRAD80]

Just need shot makers more than anything else.....sorry for being so obvious, but everything else would probably fall into place if they just could make some outside shots consistently.

[xavierj]

I'd love to see year 3 with naji and paul as seniors and with q finally off this roster. However, I think it is about a 5% chance naji and paul are still here next year.

Steele is going to need 4 years because next years roster is most likely going to be insanely young

They can’t wait to play a long career in the G league and overseas. Hope it works for them. If Steele believes they are gone, I hope he has plans to bring in more people. To lose 6 guys off the roster, with only 3 coming in could make for a really tough year. Probably be the worst team in the Big East next year.

[bjf123]

Well OSU has lost 3 straight. Their fans are ready to fire Holtmann. UCLA isn't happy with Cronin. UC isn't happy with Brannen. We X fans have been spoiled. Oh well. Here is hoping a miracle like last year springs forward.

In fairness, UCLA being unhappy with Cronin shouldn’t be a surprise.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[xudash]

What were the expectations when Jay Wright started at Villanova? Had they been consistently in the tourney with Sweet 16 and Elite 8 runs? Was he brought in to try to resurrect a so so program? The former doesn’t give you the same amount of time as the latter.

I’m not saying he should be fired immediately. I’m saying he might not get 4 years. He’ll get 3 for sure.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Expectations were high.

I do not recall Nova ever being so bad that it was a “resurrection“ job. At that time, it was Villanova in the Big East. It’s not like it was Duquesne in the Atlantic 10 or something.

Personally, I am sticking by Steele. He is rather stuck with what he has right now. In particular, the gang that collectively cannot shoot straight. As Paul noted, when that aspect of the game is failing, everything else freezes up dramatically.



Yes, more or less. It’s Nova; they expect success.

[Xville]

Please this whole league is awesome. Go enjoy your pity party with yourself.

Would love to know your definition of awesome. Must be a pretty low bar. Maybe xavier this year is awesome

[GoMuskies]

Would love to know your definition of awesome. Must be a pretty low bar. Maybe xavier this year is awesome

Well, we're in the league, and the whole league is awesome, so...

[bjf123]

Expectations were high.

I do not recall Nova ever being so bad that it was a “resurrection“ job. At that time, it was Villanova in the Big East. It’s not like it was Duquesne in the Atlantic 10 or something.

Personally, I am sticking by Steele. He is rather stuck with what he has right now. In particular, the gang that collectively cannot shoot straight. As Paul noted, when that aspect of the game is failing, everything else freezes up dramatically.



Yes, more or less. It’s Nova; they expect success.

Looks like Nova missed the post season completely the two years before Wright took over for Steve Lappas, and had not gotten beyond the second round under him prior to that. Wright took them to the NIT his first 3 years.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[GIMMFD]

Well, we're in the league, and the whole league is awesome, so...

I don't think Creighton is terribly by any means, beat a pretty good Texas Tech team, lost a close one to Nova, but also wins over Oklahoma and Arizona State, they definitely aren't conference bottom dwellers, and I do agree that the Big East is a very good basketball league. Ultimately, they were smart, pack it in, let us shoot, and watch us miss over and over again. Hasn't been the best of times in the last 3 games, but hoping we can get out of this rut.

[UCGRAD4X]

I wonder how long it took Wright to make changes.

Time for Travis to shake things up. Doing the same thing over again and expecting different results. Bet that is not a silk-suiter trait.

I sometimes wonder: is Travis telling them to do something different and they are just not doing it...does that mean they are incapable, stupid or just don't believe in or trust their coach?

[IM4X]

Would really love to see a Miles stat projection from you. I would bet he’d be playing less than 5 minutes a game.

Maybe he would only play 5 minutes in half of the games, but I’d bet he’d be playing 15+ minutes in some key games where a 6’11” big would be helpful... um... like this game and the last one against SetonHall and their 7 footers.

You can speculate that someone wouldn’t help. But that is all it is, speculation. My feeling may fall into speculation too, but at least (as I have laid out in previous posts) that Miles gives the team some more and skills that this team desperately could use.

Let’s say he does nothing more than block 4 shots per game that otherwise would have been made baskets and grabbed 4 more rebounds than his counterparts (not named Jones) would have and he allows guards to easily get the ball inside (by tossing it up high) which the other smaller even if it is a little packed (something the other new bigs are not able to do) and he makes a few layups. That is already an upside from where the team is now.

My philosophy is to always try something different that might help the team get better right away (not squander an opportunity to improve this year by just continuing to do what isn’t working). His playing seems a reasonable step in that way of thinking.

I’d love you to openly think about it before simply dismissing it right away as not making sense.

[Xville]

I wonder how long it took Wright to make changes.

Time for Travis to shake things up. Doing the same thing over again and expecting different results. Bet that is not a silk-suiter trait.

I sometimes wonder: is Travis telling them to do something different and they are just not doing it...does that mean they are incapable, stupid or just don't believe in or trust their coach?

I beg for a different starting lineup next game, but I foresee the same damn thing at Marquette. Need a shakeup

[xudash]

Looks like Nova missed the post season completely the two years before Wright took over for Steve Lappas, and had not gotten beyond the second round under him prior to that. Wright took them to the NIT his first 3 years.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

He took them to the NIT his first three years. That’s interesting.

[xu koop scoop]

Nit two years in a row....wow. can this core just be gone...page needs to be turned badly

NIT would make me happy vs nothing at all.

[AviatorX]

Maybe he would only play 5 minutes in half if the games, but I’d bet he’s be playing 15+ minutes in some key games where a 6’11” big would be helpful... um... like this game and the last one against SetonHall and their 7 footers.

You can speculate that someone wouldn’t help. But that is all it is, speculation. My feeling may fall into speculation too, but at least (as I have laid out in previous posts) that Miles gives the team some more and skills that this team desperately could use.

Let’s say he does nothing more than block 4 shots per game that otherwise would have been made baskets and grabbed 4 more rebounds than his counterparts (not named Jones) would have and he allows guards to easily get the ball inside (by tossing it up high) which the other smaller even if it is a little packed (something the other new bigs are not able to do) and he makes a few layups. That is already an upside from where the team is now.

My philosophy is to always try something different that might help the team get better right away (not squander an opportunity to improve this year by just continuing to do what isn’t working). His playing seems a reasonable step in that way of thinking.

I’d love you to openly think about it before simply dismissing it right away as not making sense.

I agree if Miles is capable of blocking 4 shots a game (which would be among the top 5 or so nationally), grabbing 4 more rebounds than Carters 5 a game average and scoring 6-8 points (“make a few layups”), then Steele is committing a fireable offense by redshirting him.

The problem is you’re not living in reality (or anywhere close to it). You’re describing Jaxon Hayes, not Miles.

[whopper]

I am sad at Q's play..maybe naive but I have memories of good (little great) play the last 3 years. Honestly what ever happened to him on a controlled fast break kind of overpowering smaller guards getting to line or a strong miss that Tyrique or Naj could clean up on the weak side. He is playing very slow, almost like a 60s guard. If he put up a line like 8 points (2-6 from floor, 4-6 from line, 4 assists and 2 TO it would make a huge difference. Right now he could be Leigton Schrand for all the good it does(and I like Schrand) as he is just working it around the perimeter and shooing a 3 late in clock (maybe not late enough). If those late 3s were turned into a drive and runner or a drive and dish like to Mal Bernard we would have a 20% chance scoring You can't have a goose egg from a starter, and a mere 2 pts from bench(Mahoney had 13 by self) and win..numbers don't work ever for Virgnia style defense. I think Moore would play better; he is replacing Q but not penetrating just working around and taking late 3s and he feels pressure to clean up for Q.. I know easier said than done. Fremantle looks lost and it would not kill us to play James! Tyrique could finish better. I will still watch and root for X and won't throw anyone under bus but frustrated. On plus side Carter has kind of settled in.

[xu koop scoop]

Some think Naji & Scruggs will forego their Senior years. I don't see either getting to the G league & not even overseas big right away. If they were that good, we'd have more wins last year & this year. We were down 51-48 today & Naji was so determined to carry the team that on the next possession he became a mad man that bounced the ball off his own leg and out of bounce. NBA & overseas scouts can look at Naji's lowlight reels (vs hilight reels) & see he still needs a work. Can Naji or Scruggs enter the transfer portal? That's what concerns me.

[GoMuskies]

Xavier's KenPom fell to 45 after today. 68 on offense and an "elite" 39 on defense.

[Xavgrad08]

Xavier's KenPom fell to 45 after today. 68 on offense and an "elite" 39 on defense.

I actually thought we would be worse than 68 on offense. Defense could not get key stops today, or verse Seton Hall. In addition to our offensive woes.

[noteggs]

I totally agree.

For those of you who believe Steele should be fired immediately, and I do understand that this is rather anecdotal, go look up Jay Wright’s record at Villanova in his first three years.

Nonetheless, we are in for a long year. There isn’t enough talent behind the arc and collective talent above the neck for this team to turn it around and have a successful season.

Nice post

Obviously Steele is to be held accountable but the other stuff? People got to realize recruits want stability at the HC position, even more than current rankings and tournament results. Could you imagine if Steele is let go? We could kiss some of the 2020 class good bye and probably some of our freshman. Talk about a rebuild losing two coaches in two years. As for tourney results, Mack struck out in 2018 class and that was after an elite 8 year.

[AviatorX]

Xavier's KenPom fell to 45 after today. 68 on offense and an "elite" 39 on defense.

Dropping like a rock on the defensive side of the ball - from 19 to 39 in about 4 games.

This is officially just a mediocre team.

[xu82]

I am sooo happy there is football to watch. I need a distraction.

[Juice]

Xavier's KenPom fell to 45 after today. 68 on offense and an "elite" 39 on defense.

Behind UC

[KFX]

Wow. Great call. I remember that game. Lville v X great Alaska shootout.

[bleedXblue]

Name one thing this team does well. Seriously please name one. I find that almost incredible. Sorry, but that's coaching in a nutshell. I'm not suggesting Steele be fired at this point, but I certainly don't feel great about the fact that we resemble nothing of what we have seen Xavier do the last 25 years.

[Muskie in dayton]

Nice post

Obviously Steele is to be held accountable but the other stuff? People got to realize recruits want stability at the HC position, even more than current rankings and tournament results. Could you imagine if Steele is let go? We could kiss some of the 2020 class good bye and probably some of our freshman. Talk about a rebuild losing two coaches in two years. As for tourney results, Mack struck out in 2018 class and that was after an elite 8 year.

The same thing could happen by sticking with him. It’s a Choose Your Own Adventure... with 35 years of Program growth at stake.

[UCGRAD4X]

Name one thing this team does well. Seriously please name one. I find that almost incredible. Sorry, but that's coaching in a nutshell. I'm not suggesting Steele be fired at this point, but I certainly don't feel great about the fact that we resemble nothing of what we have seen Xavier do the last 25 years.

Does that kind of go with the ever elusive search for an "identity"? This team has no aspect they can hang their hat on, that they can depend on most games (except turnovers, lousy outside and free throw shooting - which has morphed into so many missed shots at the basket).

[JTG]

It all boils down to 3s. Just being average would make a world of difference in the offense, and it would give them more energy on defense. It has to wear on them to miss shot after shot after shot. 3s are the most important part of a 2000s offense, and we have none.

[OTRMUSKIE]

I think we should be able to switch leagues when we’re not as good. Like my highschool La Salle. When they dropped to under 600 kids they went D2 in football. I think when X struggles we should be allowed to go back to the A-10. This SUCKS!!!!

[GoMuskies]

I think we should be able to switch leagues when we’re not as good. Like my highschool La Salle. When they dropped to under 600 kids they went D2 in football. I think when X struggles we should be allowed to go back to the A-10. This SUCKS!!!!

Would you really want Jimmy Carter to end?

[XU_Lou]

Shannon tweeted this a little while ago:

"Goodin was benched bc of his defense; his offense didn't help. Steele: "I know (people will) point to, ‘Well, he missed some threes’ & he did. He’s got to take the right ones. That’s what I told him: ‘You’ve got to make an adjustment, man. You’ve got to start driving the ball.’" "

I have a question for you all. Maybe I'm misinterpreting this, but around the 10 minute mark in the 1st half we had a ball deflected/bad pass that went into the backcourt. Though his back was to the camera, Q's body language towards Bryce Moore (I believe that it who was) was, "well, are you going to go get it?". If I was in Q's situation I would've immediately ran after it to prevent Creighton from grabbing the ball and making an easy layup. Did anyone else notice this?

[bjf123]

I think we should be able to switch leagues when we’re not as good. Like my highschool La Salle. When they dropped to under 600 kids they went D2 in football. I think when X struggles we should be allowed to go back to the A-10. This SUCKS!!!!

Hello fellow Lancer!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[X Factor]

It all boils down to 3s. Just being average would make a world of difference in the offense, and it would give them more energy on defense. It has to wear on them to miss shot after shot after shot. 3s are the most important part of a 2000s offense, and we have none.

Xavier shot really well against Seton Hall, one of the few games X has actually shot well. Rebounding and defense lost that one.

This team now has more issues than just shooting.

[GoMuskies]

I have a question for you all. Maybe I'm misinterpreting this, but around the 10 minute mark in the 1st half we had a ball deflected/bad pass that went into the backcourt. Though his back was to the camera, Q's body language towards Bryce Moore (I believe that it who was) was, "well, are you going to go get it?". If I was in Q's situation I would've immediately ran after it to prevent Creighton from grabbing the ball and making an easy layup. Did anyone else notice this?

I noticed that, too Not ideal.

[vee4xu]

If X is playing in a big-boy conference, then everyone should wear their big-boy pants and be accountable. That means President, AD, HC, Asst. Coaches and players. X won a lot of big time games over the years with less talent than they have now. If X doesn't have make it to the NCAA tournament, then nothing should be off the table. Men's basketball is the bell cow of Xavier. The entire campus as it's built and the main non-academic attraction for students considering X is men's basketball, period. This team just lost two straight home conference games by 10+ points and gave up over 80 points to both teams. That doesn't happen to well-coached, talented basketball teams. Maybe X is neither, or one and not the other, but this is a team that we were told will have defense as their calling card. Well, I don't have to provide much evidence beyond the past two games to indicate this team has issues. Last week, X struggled to beat SJU, who unceremoniously was drilled by Gtown by over 20 points. Today, Villanova beat Gtown by 14. Where does that leave X, who was also beaten pretty soundly by Villanova. This team show no fire, no passion, they can't shoot, they can't defend, they turnover the ball at an alarming rate and the coaches don't adjust. Point in fact on the adjustment. X played Seton even until Seton goes on a 22-7 run. They play even the rest of the game and give up 80 points. Today was a carbon copy of that game. I don't expect perfection, but frankly I expect much more than what we've seen this year and frankly all of last year. If X doesn't make the NCAA tournament this year, as suggested by others, the first coach since forever, then nothing should be off the table. Accountability. We all have it and Xavier's MBB should be no different.

[IM4X]

I agree if Miles is capable of blocking 4 shots a game (which would be among the top 5 or so nationally), grabbing 4 more rebounds than Carters 5 a game average and scoring 6-8 points (“make a few layups”), then Steele is committing a fireable offense by redshirting him.

The problem is you’re not living in reality (or anywhere close to it). YouÂ’re describing Jaxon Hayes, not Miles.

I love how you make your personal opinions come across like they are already proven facts. As if your opinions are reality.

News flash: Your opinions are not reality. And unless you are clairvoyant, you have no idea how close to reality I am with my opinions.

I do not particularly care for the “I know and you don’t” approach to posting. Apparently you do. So there it that.

[IM4X]

If X is playing in a big-boy conference, then everyone should wear their big-boy pants and be accountable. That means President, AD, HC, Asst. Coaches and players. X won a lot of big time games over the years with less talent than they have now. If X doesn't have make it to the NCAA tournament, then nothing should be off the table. Men's basketball is the bell cow of Xavier. The entire campus as it's built and the main non-academic attraction for students considering X is men's basketball, period. This team just lost two straight home conference games by 10+ points and gave up over 80 points to both teams. That doesn't happen to well-coached, talented basketball teams. Maybe X is neither, or one and not the other, but this is a team that we were told will have defense as their calling card. Well, I don't have to provide much evidence beyond the past two games to indicate this team has issues. Last week, X struggled to beat SJU, who unceremoniously was drilled by Gtown by over 20 points. Today, Villanova beat Gtown by 14. Where does that leave X, who was also beaten pretty soundly by Villanova. This team show no fire, no passion, they can't shoot, they can't defend, they turnover the ball at an alarming rate and the coaches don't adjust. Point in fact on the adjustment. X played Seton even until Seton goes on a 22-7 run. They play even the rest of the game and give up 80 points. Today was a carbon copy of that game. I don't expect perfection, but frankly I expect much more than what we've seen this year and frankly all of last year. If X doesn't make the NCAA tournament this year, as suggested by others, the first coach since forever, then nothing should be off the table. Accountability. We all have it and Xavier's MBB should be no different.

I feel you.

On one hand, I hate hearing any talk about a newish coach being on a “hot seat” during a season. I do not think is is fair to a coach and frankly I think any struggling coach already knows his job is going to be in jeopardy if he can’t correct things at some point. On the other hand, I 100% believe as you are suggesting that everyone needs to be accountable. And anyone not living up to expectations needs to step up and prove his (or her) worth or they’ll eventually have to step aside.

I still like the hire of Steele... but he is starting to look and sound soft. This is a prime example. Time to live up to your name Steele and grow a pair. Getting beat by double digits in two straight home games.

"Goodin was benched bc of his defense; his offense didn't help. Steele: "I know (people will) point to, ‘Well, he missed some threes’ & he did. He’s got to take the right ones. That’s what I told him: ‘You’ve got to make an adjustment, man. You’ve got to start driving the ball.

[bleedXblue]

If X is playing in a big-boy conference, then everyone should wear their big-boy pants and be accountable. That means President, AD, HC, Asst. Coaches and players. X won a lot of big time games over the years with less talent than they have now. If X doesn't have make it to the NCAA tournament, then nothing should be off the table. Men's basketball is the bell cow of Xavier. The entire campus as it's built and the main non-academic attraction for students considering X is men's basketball, period. This team just lost two straight home conference games by 10+ points and gave up over 80 points to both teams. That doesn't happen to well-coached, talented basketball teams. Maybe X is neither, or one and not the other, but this is a team that we were told will have defense as their calling card. Well, I don't have to provide much evidence beyond the past two games to indicate this team has issues. Last week, X struggled to beat SJU, who unceremoniously was drilled by Gtown by over 20 points. Today, Villanova beat Gtown by 14. Where does that leave X, who was also beaten pretty soundly by Villanova. This team show no fire, no passion, they can't shoot, they can't defend, they turnover the ball at an alarming rate and the coaches don't adjust. Point in fact on the adjustment. X played Seton even until Seton goes on a 22-7 run. They play even the rest of the game and give up 80 points. Today was a carbon copy of that game. I don't expect perfection, but frankly I expect much more than what we've seen this year and frankly all of last year. If X doesn't make the NCAA tournament this year, as suggested by others, the first coach since forever, then nothing should be off the table. Accountability. We all have it and Xavier's MBB should be no different.

Not sure where you are going with this........Steele may be held "accountable", but he's going nowhere and will be here next year without any doubt. He has a great class coming in for 2020. None of us like this and trust me I have my doubts that Steele can coach at this level too.

[vee4xu]

Not sure where you are going with this........Steele may be held "accountable", but he's going nowhere and will be here next year without any doubt. He has a great class coming in for 2020. None of us like this and trust me I have my doubts that Steele can coach at this level too.

Where I am going with it is, if the President and the AD don't like what they see, then do more than tell Steele about it. Ask him what he's going to do about it. If you don't like the answer, then remind him he's here to win basketball games and if he can't do that, then they'll find someone who will.

[IM4X]

I am sad at Q's play..maybe naive but I have memories of good (little great) play the last 3 years. Honestly what ever happened to him on a controlled fast break kind of overpowering smaller guards getting to line or a strong miss that Tyrique or Naj could clean up on the weak side. He is playing very slow, almost like a 60s guard. If he put up a line like 8 points (2-6 from floor, 4-6 from line, 4 assists and 2 TO it would make a huge difference. Right now he could be Leigton Schrand for all the good it does(and I like Schrand) as he is just working it around the perimeter and shooing a 3 late in clock (maybe not late enough). If those late 3s were turned into a drive and runner or a drive and dish like to Mal Bernard we would have a 20% chance scoring You can't have a goose egg from a starter, and a mere 2 pts from bench(Mahoney had 13 by self) and win..numbers don't work ever for Virgnia style defense. I think Moore would play better; he is replacing Q but not penetrating just working around and taking late 3s and he feels pressure to clean up for Q.. I know easier said than done. Fremantle looks lost and it would not kill us to play James! Tyrique could finish better. I will still watch and root for X and won't throw anyone under bus but frustrated. On plus side Carter has kind of settled in.

Good post... though I think Carter still has a way to go... he needs to stay closer to the post on offense and help more with rebounding and leave most of the 3s to Scruggs and Kyky. I can count on more than two hands the amount of times a shot went Where he was nowhere near the rim for a potential offensive rebound.

[scoscox]

"Goodin was benched bc of his defense; his offense didn't help. Steele: "I know (people will) point to, ‘Well, he missed some threes’ & he did. He’s got to take the right ones. That’s what I told him: ‘You’ve got to make an adjustment, man. You’ve got to start driving the ball.

i'm so sick of Q, man. dude is out chirping fucking fans on twitter after he went o-fer and got benched for the entire second half. worry about yourself dude! you just got benched! go fucking work on your game! not sure i've ever seen a less competitive division 1 athlete

kyky is still in cintas shooting and Q is on fucking twitter. tells you all you need to know

[vee4xu]

Further, to suggest that somehow there isn't enough talent to make things work is a cop out. When you get lemons, make lemonade. This is when the real value of an experienced coach comes into play, one who can assess exactly what kind of talent they have and then mold the team to those talents. That hasn't happened this year. Steele said at the beginning of the year, "defense will have to be our calling card, some games may be ugly but we will have to win with defense." How did that go the last two games? How about against Villanova? So what he does from here is crucial. Obviously, his defense as a calling card strategy is failing. Now, we will see if he has the ability to take control of they situation and get these guys to somehow win games. If not, that's completely on Steele and his assistants.

[Xville]

Shannon tweeted this a little while ago:

"Goodin was benched bc of his defense; his offense didn't help. Steele: "I know (people will) point to, ‘Well, he missed some threes’ & he did. He’s got to take the right ones. That’s what I told him: ‘You’ve got to make an adjustment, man. You’ve got to start driving the ball.’" "

I have a question for you all. Maybe I'm misinterpreting this, but around the 10 minute mark in the 1st half we had a ball deflected/bad pass that went into the backcourt. Though his back was to the camera, Q's body language towards Bryce Moore (I believe that it who was) was, "well, are you going to go get it?". If I was in Q's situation I would've immediately ran after it to prevent Creighton from grabbing the ball and making an easy layup. Did anyone else notice this?

He played almost 20 minutes in a 40 minute game....when did this benching happen? Steele talking a big game, not coaching well against one

[Xville]

i'm so sick of Q, man. dude is out chirping fucking fans on twitter after he went o-fer and got benched for the entire second half. worry about yourself dude! you just got benched! go fucking work on your game! not sure i've ever seen a less competitive division 1 athlete

Hes a bitch and thinks he is way better than he is...

[scoscox]

I am sad at Q's play..maybe naive but I have memories of good (little great) play the last 3 years. Honestly what ever happened to him on a controlled fast break kind of overpowering smaller guards getting to line or a strong miss that Tyrique or Naj could clean up on the weak side. He is playing very slow, almost like a 60s guard. If he put up a line like 8 points (2-6 from floor, 4-6 from line, 4 assists and 2 TO it would make a huge difference. Right now he could be Leigton Schrand for all the good it does(and I like Schrand) as he is just working it around the perimeter and shooing a 3 late in clock (maybe not late enough). If those late 3s were turned into a drive and runner or a drive and dish like to Mal Bernard we would have a 20% chance scoring You can't have a goose egg from a starter, and a mere 2 pts from bench(Mahoney had 13 by self) and win..numbers don't work ever for Virgnia style defense. I think Moore would play better; he is replacing Q but not penetrating just working around and taking late 3s and he feels pressure to clean up for Q.. I know easier said than done. Fremantle looks lost and it would not kill us to play James! Tyrique could finish better. I will still watch and root for X and won't throw anyone under bus but frustrated. On plus side Carter has kind of settled in.

i don't know where these memories of q come from for people. he never did any of those things.

[scoscox]

Hes a bitch and thinks he is way better than he is...

i just don't know how that's possible. i don't know how you can consistently play that poorly/get worked by the guy youre playing and still have a high opinion of yourself. i don't think you're wrong i just don't understand how it's even possible

[scoscox]

On another note, creighton killed us on the boards, right after seton hall got done murdering us on the boards. that's unacceptable

[bleedXblue]

Where I am going with it is, if the President and the AD don't like what they see, then do more than tell Steele about it. Ask him what he's going to do about it. If you don't like the answer, then remind him he's here to win basketball games and if he can't do that, then they'll find someone who will.

Your delusional. You don't think Travis knows he's here to win? You don't think he wants to win? You don't think he's pissed off and embarrassed at his teams play? No one needs to remind him or have a conversation with him. The last thing you want to do is what you are suggesting. Yeah, lets threaten him mid year with his job if they don't improve.

[vee4xu]

Heres' my last point, then my rant on this topic is over. Steele makes a couple million bucks a year to coach and win basketball games. I doubt the AD said, it's okay if you don't win early Travis, we are happy to pay you a couple million dollars a year to wait until you get your guys. No, they hired Steele to win now and if the players who are left aren't very good, then for a couple of million bucks, figure it out. If the players are good talent but have attitudes, then Steele needs to be a prick, sit them down and play walk-ons. At least he can say he did something to change the situation, even if they still lose. At this point, I view Steele as a highly paid professional coach who has to win basketball games without any excuses. If not, then the AD has to consider all his options.

[Xville]

Bench q for Marquette and see what happens. Bet we win

[vee4xu]

Your delusional. You don't think Travis knows he's here to win? You don't think he wants to win? You don't think he's pissed off and embarrassed at his teams play? No one needs to remind him or have a conversation with him. The last thing you want to do is what you are suggesting. Yeah, lets threaten him mid year with his job if they don't improve.

Delusional? What the hell are talking about? I have no idea what Steele thinks and neither do you. I just see the results and they stink, which is both obvious and speak for themselves. By the way, if he doesn't like losing, then do something about it!

[bleedXblue]

Delusional? What the hell are talking about? I have no idea what Steele thinks and neither do you. I just see the results and they stink, which is both obvious and speak for themselves. By the way, if he doesn't like losing, then do something about it!

Yeah, you are way off the rails. You make it sound so easy. Just snap your fingers and make everything better Travis......

It doesn't work that way. No one is happy. Chill out and step away from the keyboard

[vee4xu]

Yeah, you are way off the rails. You make it sound so easy. Just snap your fingers and make everything better Travis......

It doesn't work that way. No one is happy. Chill out and step away from the keyboard

I fear you are the one living a life of delusion friend. Plus, you have it backwards. I never said everything would be better. Show me where I did. What I said was the dude it making millions being the HC of Xavier's biggest money maker. What I said is, if he can't cut it, cut him and move on. It's all business to me. You win, you get paid. You lose, you're out. Clock is running.

[bleedXblue]

Bench q for Marquette and see what happens. Bet we win

Somethings gotta give and something isn't right. Steele figured it out last year. Lets hope he can pull the right strings this year too

[IM4X]

Further, to suggest that somehow there isn't enough talent to make things work is a cop out. When you get lemons, make lemonade. This is when the real value of an experienced coach comes into play, one who can assess exactly what kind of talent they have and then mold the team to those talents. That hasn't happened this year. Steele said at the beginning of the year, "defense will have to be our calling card, some games may be ugly but we will have to win with defense." How did that go the last two games? How about against Villanova? So what he does from here is crucial. Obviously, his defense as a calling card strategy is failing. Now, we will see if he has the ability to take control of they situation and get these guys to somehow win games. If not, that's completely on Steele and his assistants.

Got to say, I am in this camp. Again. I think Steel can get there, but he is simply being too passive at this point.

We have enough talent... Gillen would take this group and press the hell out of teams. He would squeeze out every bit of advantage that his players have over their opponents and use it against them to throw them off balance and gain an edge. Steele is allowing the same low percentage offensive Stratford happen again and again... “If you have an open look from 3, take it” and then is like... “well I know Q and other (poor) 3 point shooters are shooting taking (actually recklessly chucking up) a bit of (a absurd number of)3s and (and hitting almost none of them) and maybe (he abso- f-lutely) he should have driven more.”

Steele: “Yeah, I don't care about 3-point shots,"

Start caring coach!!! TodY was a joke.

[vee4xu]

Fr. Graham's box is right above my season ticket seats. Here's a question for everyone. How do you think those conversations about giving big donations to Xavier have been going last year and this year, especially the past two games? How long do you think Fr. Graham wants to have those kinds of conversations while he's trying to wrap up the last push on the endowment fund? Anyone who doesn't understand that winning for money raising in the endowment is ultimately what Xavier's men basketball coach is here to do, then you are delusional. The best way to keep you job is to win and keep the funds rolling in. We'll find out what Fr. Graham's tolerance is for having awkward conversations with big money donors after lackluster home efforts, win, or lose.

[bleedXblue]

I fear you are the one living a life of delusion friend. Plus, you have it backwards. I never said everything would be better. Show me where I did. What I said was the dude it making millions being the HC of Xavier's biggest money maker. What I said is, if he can't cut it, cut him and move on. It's all business to me. You win, you get paid. You lose, you're out. Clock is running.

Almost every single Xavier coach has struggled to some degree during their tenure. With your logic and cut throat strategy we'd be Evansville right now. You gotta let things play out and you certainly aren't walking away from Steele after this year with the class he has lined up for next year.

I hope you're done with your temper tantrum b/c I think the rest of this year is going to be very challenging for this coach and team.

[bleedXblue]

Fr. Graham's box is right above my season ticket seats. Here's a question for everyone. How do you think those conversations about giving big donations to Xavier have been going last year and this year, especially the past two games? How long do you think Fr. Graham wants to have those kinds of conversations while he's trying to wrap up the last push on the endowment fund?

You could put your money where you mouth is and be the first donor to contribute to Steel's buyout clause if you are that unhappy.

[vee4xu]

You could put your money where you mouth is and be the first donor to contribute to Steel's buyout clause if you are that unhappy.

Well, glad you asked. I am a major donor and have endowed a scholarship, sir. Your turn!!!!

[IM4X]

No one needs to remind him or have a conversation with him. The last thing you want to do is what you are suggesting. Yeah, lets threaten him mid year with his job if they don't improve.

I agree with what you are saying. Not sure that is exactly what Vee4xu is saying though.

I think many fans (including me and I believe you and Vee) are beyond frustrated with the direction this team is now heading. The thought is that everyone ought to be accountable for this team not getting better. The players don’t look like they are getting smarter. The coach isn’t showing he is doing much to change that issue or the direction and in fact the defense (that once looked pretty good) is starting to getting worse. And why are mediocre 3 point shooters given the green light to continually jacking up threes? Why are these actions and results not as big of concern to Steele as it should be?

I am not doubting Steele’s ability to be a very good head coach just yet... I loved seeing his candid talk about issues that we all were seeing and I loved that he appeared to be serious about paying attention to the little details early in this season... but his more recent comments and this crappy offense (partly caused by him allowing his players to shoot whenever and from
wherever as long as it is an open look has caused me to slowly start losing faith. We need this coach to prove he can grab this team (yes the stubborn veterans too) and mold them... not just sit back, make a few post game comments about the team needing to play better and hope it sinks in.

Time to sit who doesn’t fall in line and work with the rest. If he still has trouble getting through to them, bring Farr and JP back in to help light a fire... and and have them remind the team how they are killing the X brand with their poor play... and if they keep playing this way, they will be the only X team in a long time who will have not made the NCAA tournament for two straight seasons.

The way X played on offense in this game was a joke from the tip off. I just can’t get past the fact we saw Q once again jacking up all of those early threes. And I can’t get past the fact Steele was apathetic about excessive 3 point shoots being taken by players who have no business shooting 3s as much as they do. It is clearly a big concern. I want so badly for this coach to quite with the “let’s have fun” talk and start with the “start playing like you belong in and X uniform” talk... “and I will start coaching like I belong on the sidelines here.”

[IM4X]

i'm so sick of Q, man. dude is out chirping fucking fans on twitter after he went o-fer and got benched for the entire second half. worry about yourself dude! you just got benched! go fucking work on your game! not sure i've ever seen a less competitive division 1 athlete

kyky is still in cintas shooting and Q is on fucking twitter. tells you all you need to know

Why?????

what was that today... all those damn 3s... Did Steele give him the green light to shoot again and again just because he was open. Ugh. Between his 3s and Moore and Carter from 3... Holy SH!+ show... Batman!!!

[AviatorX]

I love how you make your personal opinions come across like they are already proven facts. As if your opinions are reality.

News flash: Your opinions are not reality. And unless you are clairvoyant, you have no idea how close to reality I am with my opinions.

I do not particularly care for the “I know and you don’t” approach to posting. Apparently you do. So there it that.

It’s ok to admit you reached for a very dumb point. Lord knows I’ve done it several times on here.

That said, I really hope Miles is as good as you think. If he is, Xavier should be pretty good next year. Assuming he doesn’t go in the lottery this year based on your scouting report.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Is miles redshirted? If not why isn’t he playing? Seems like a waste to just let him sit.

[X Factor]

Is miles redshirted? If not why isn’t he playing? Seems like a waste to just let him sit.

Yes, he is redshirting per Steele.

[drudy23]

I want to hear one thing:

"We have to be better, and that starts with me. At this point, everything is on the table", and then follow through.

[IM4X]

It’s ok to admit you reached for a very dumb point. Lord knows I’ve done it several times on here.

That said, I really hope Miles is as good as you think. If he is, Xavier should be pretty good next year. Assuming he doesn’t go in the lottery this year based on your scouting report.

You mean you’ve made dumb points like saying it was stupid to think Miles couldn’t possibly help this team. Or was it when you suggested later in the above post that if Miles isn’t lottery material yet, how could he possibly be good enough to help the team. I am starting to understand your reality now.

I’ll put it to you this way: I am feeling very confident that D. Miles will be good enough next year that fans will be saying. “Why the hell was he redshirted last year?!!! He could have helped X win a lot more games.” Then you'll probably post some wonderfully convenient rationale next season like, “Oh, well he actually only got dramatically better right before the season started and he wasn’t nearly this good... dispite all of the oohing about him during practice the previous year.”

That’s okay. I’m going to keep suggesting very reasonable options that could help this team get better based on the situation and you can feel free to keep shooting them down and talking about my warped sense of reality and then naively stick with your belief that the coaches and players continuing to do everything the same way again and again is actually the best way for this team to get better.

No hard feelings. We both want the team to be better. I just prefer the method of moving past something that clearly isn’t working to something that actually might work and not dismissing others who offer very reasonable approaches.