Coach Steele

[GoMuskies]

Maybe I'm too empathetic

LOL, just found my answer to the job interview question "What is your biggest weakness?".

[xu koop scoop]

Looking at current stats & this is what Steele has to work with: Naji .437 FG, .303 3 pt FG, .676 FT, 6.2 RPG, 98 A to 81 TO (surprised his A/TO that good) / Jones .550 FG, .603 FT, Tons of Rebounds, 40 A 49 TO / Scruggs .466 FG, .358 3 pt FG,(more 3 pt shots!) .729 FT, 4.6 RPG, 73 A 75 TO (A to TO ratio makes him NOT a PG) / Z Free .476 FG, .391 3 pt FG (feed him for the 3!), .792 FT (drive & get fouled), 4 RPG, 12 A 21 TO (gets stripped too often). These 4 deserve to start. Next 4 up: Tandy .379 FG, .348 3 Pt, .647 FT, 15 A to 18 TO, only 3 steals./ Carter .386 FG (beats Tandy), .260 3 pt FG, .744 FT (beats Tandy) , 2nd in Off Reb., 2nd in Blocks, 37 A to 42 TO. 20 steals. / Q .337 FG, .274 3 pt FG, .617 FT, 21 steals, 85 A to 49 TO (true PG, but can't shoot)./ Moore .305 FG, .294 3 pt FG, .818 FT, 15 A to 18 TO.
Observations: Q has good A/TO ratio & good amount of Steals. His fall off is really hurting us. Need Q to turn into late season Chalmers,etc... Carter needs to make bunnies at a high clip - many would quit bitching. Tandy needs a better overall FG% & better defense(3 steals for the year!). Does Moore have it in him to be a Malcolm Bernard. I'm Okay with what Travis has done with this bunch.

[sgarcia]

Looking at current stats & this is what Steele has to work with: Naji .437 FG, .303 3 pt FG, .676 FT, 6.2 RPG, 98 A to 81 TO (surprised his A/TO that good) / Jones .550 FG, .603 FT, Tons of Rebounds, 40 A 49 TO / Scruggs .466 FG, .358 3 pt FG,(more 3 pt shots!) .729 FT, 4.6 RPG, 73 A 75 TO (A to TO ratio makes him NOT a PG) / Z Free .476 FG, .391 3 pt FG (feed him for the 3!), .792 FT (drive & get fouled), 4 RPG, 12 A 21 TO (gets stripped too often). These 4 deserve to start. Next 4 up: Tandy .379 FG, .348 3 Pt, .647 FT, 15 A to 18 TO, only 3 steals./ Carter .386 FG (beats Tandy), .260 3 pt FG, .744 FT (beats Tandy) , 2nd in Off Reb., 2nd in Blocks, 37 A to 42 TO. 20 steals. / Q .337 FG, .274 3 pt FG, .617 FT, 21 steals, 85 A to 49 TO (true PG, but can't shoot)./ Moore .305 FG, .294 3 pt FG, .818 FT, 15 A to 18 TO.
Observations: Q has good A/TO ratio & good amount of Steals. His fall off is really hurting us. Need Q to turn into late season Chalmers,etc... Carter needs to make bunnies at a high clip - many would quit bitching. Tandy needs a better overall FG% & better defense(3 steals for the year!). Does Moore have it in him to be a Malcolm Bernard. I'm Okay with what Travis has done with this bunch.

Does Q even play the point when he comes in anymore? I feel like Tandy or Scruggs always brings it up when Q is in the game and he's relegated to wing 3 pt shooter. I wish Q could drive and throw up a floater or attempt to finish with his left hand once in a while but maybe I'm hoping for too much. I don't know if he's lost interest, confidence or both but it just seems like he's going through the motions and trying to get out of there ASAP.

[paulxu]

I want to start a fire Roy thread.
He's last place in the 15 team AAC.
He's going to have a losing record.
He obviously can't coach.

[Mrs. Garrett]

I really don't get this. I recognize the fan base has elected Carter as the outlet for their frustration, but Steele certainly isn't riding him anywhere. Carter uses less possessions than Naji, Tyrique, Scruggs, Goodin, Freemantle and Tandy. He is essentially the 7th offensive option in a 7.5 man rotation. Setting aside the fact that there is literally nothing to indicate James is a better option in that role, Carter is wayyyyyyyyyyy down the list of this team's offensive issues.

Obviously, Carter has been disappointing. I'm sure he would tell you that. But again, it's not like Steele has Derrick Brown rotting away on the bench. With Freemantle and Tandy at this point basically getting 25-30 minutes a game, there's not really much room to complain about Carter's PT.

There's plenty that can be done to keep him off the floor. He's too slow to play the SF. He gives us nothing for 28 minutes per game.

[XU 87]

LOL, just found my answer to the job interview question "What is your biggest weakness?".

I used to say, "Sometimes I work harder than I need to get the job done. For example, sometimes I study too long for exams."

[XU 87]

Travis Steele has blown out 2 shooters- Elias Harden who, when he got a court sniff like against Auburn and Villanova last year, performed well. Construction minus 1.
Dahmir Bishop was a 4 star shooter and actively recruited by Steele. He blew him out too. Construction minus 2.
Why did they leave? No playing time. Why??


C'mon MOR, you're too smart to be posting stuff like this. Hardin isn't any good at Jacksonville State and Bishop was shooting 16% from the field when he left.

But to answer your question- they didn't get playing time because 1) they're not very good and 2) they didn't deserve playing time.

[GoMuskies]

Bishop might eventually be a good player. Harden....I'm not sure how a guy with that shooting form ever got a reputation as a shooter. You thought it was a miracle every time on of his shots wen it.

[XU 87]

Bishop might eventually be a good player.

You may be right about Bishop, but he was terrible in his limited time here, and he certainly didn't do anything to warrant more minutes, or any minutes for that matter.

[xavierj]

There's plenty that can be done to keep him off the floor. He's too slow to play the SF. He gives us nothing for 28 minutes per game.

I don’t know. Who else do they have left that will give them 7 points, 5 boards and shoot 74% from the line? I don’t think it is sitting on the bench. I know no one wants to say it but he isn’t bad on defense either. I am sure Travis and all of us would love another guy to give them 10 and 6 and be consistent, but I think what we see is all we have.

[xcellentx]

You may be right about Bishop, but he was terrible in his limited time here, and he certainly didn't do anything to warrant more minutes, or any minutes for that matter.

I think he will turn into a fine player, he just looked off and since he is only a freshman there is reason to think that he would improve. I think the main thing is that he didn't adjust to life in college away from home. How much that effected his play is hard to tell but it does seem to be an issue.

I also think it is ridiculous to say Steele ran him off. Bishop got a good chunk of playing time at the beginning of the year especially for how bad his shooting was. It seems obvious that he wanted to go back home, that's not Steele's fault.

[Muskie]

The roller coaster that is this thread is amazing. Elias Harden and Keonte Kennedy are now missing difference makers and they’re gone because Steele didn’t develop them....or they were somehow mismanaged. I don’t know what to say.... officially baffled.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[GoMuskies]

We did waste minutes on a walkon starting the first two games. Perhaps if you gave Bishop more minutes in those games things would have turned out different...but probably not. In general, though, I think it's fine to let the freshmen play through the absolute sucking in the early part of the season to pay dividends later in the year IF you think they're talented enough.

[XU 87]

I think he will turn into a fine player, he just looked off and since he is only a freshman there is reason to think that he would improve. I think the main thing is that he didn't adjust to life in college away from home. How much that effected his play is hard to tell but it does seem to be an issue.

I also think it is ridiculous to say Steele ran him off. Bishop got a good chunk of playing time at the beginning of the year especially for how bad his shooting was. It seems obvious that he wanted to go back home, that's not Steele's fault.

When you shoot 18% from the field, 11% from the three, and 30% from the free throw line, it's tough to make the argument that "I should have been playing more." The other thing is that Kyky took his PT when Kyky came back.

[GoMuskies]

And now I'm going to the box scores and seeing that Bishop was getting 20+ minutes early on and just didn't turn the corner. So they tried to let him play through the suck. He just never got through it.

[XU 87]

The roller coaster that is this thread is amazing. Elias Harden and Keonte Kennedy are now missing difference makers and they’re gone because Steele didn’t develop them....or they were somehow mismanaged. I don’t know what to say.... officially baffled.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

If only Jake Walter hadn't gotten into trouble!!!!! He would have made the difference.

[xavierj]

We did waste minutes on a walkon starting the first two games. Perhaps if you gave Bishop more minutes in those games things would have turned out different...but probably not. In general, though, I think it's fine to let the freshmen play through the absolute sucking in the early part of the season to pay dividends later in the year IF you think they're talented enough.

He actually did get minutes in those games, 21 and 23, and the walk-on played PG, not shooting guard. Also played 16 against UCONN. If every freshman left because of playing time, 90% of college freshman would transfer.

[AviatorX]

There's plenty that can be done to keep him off the floor. He's too slow to play the SF. He gives us nothing for 28 minutes per game.

I guess I'm going to put myself on Carter Island, but I completely disagree that he gives nothing and I do not think there's any reason for a significant reduction in his minutes in the context of this roster, especially with KyKy and Freemantle playing as much as they are. I get a lot of people are going to seriously disagree with that.

[XU 87]

I guess I'm going to put myself on Carter Island, but I completely disagree that he gives nothing and I do not think there's any reason for a significant reduction in his minutes in the context of this roster, especially with KyKy and Freemantle playing as much as they are. I get a lot of people are going to seriously disagree with that.

Who does X have to take Carter's minutes?

[AviatorX]

Who does X have to take Carter's minutes?

I completely agree with this.

[bleedXblue]

I completely agree with this.

James? I mean I know he isn't a world beater, but not getting ANY minutes is very telling.

We are gonna have more room AGAIN this year for multiple transfers or 5th year guys.

I really wish we would solidify this recruiting thing.......

[AviatorX]

James? I mean I know he isn't a world beater, but not getting ANY minutes is very telling.

We are gonna have more room AGAIN this year for multiple transfers or 5th year guys.

I really wish we would solidify this recruiting thing.......

I'm not going to make an argument that James should take any of Carter's minutes. I'll leave that to someone else, but doesn't strike me as a particularly compelling case.

[xcellentx]

I'm not going to make an argument that James should take any of Carter's minutes. I'll leave that to someone else, but doesn't strike me as a particularly compelling case.

I would like to see James get some minutes, but it is telling that he isn't getting in. There doesn't seem to be any evidence that he would provide anything better than Carter.

Other than James, the only people we would expect to get minutes are Q and Moore and we need them to spell the guards and neither are lighting it up.

I think the expectation going into the year is that Ramsey would also get time at the 4 and that would go up or down depending on how he performed. Him being out has pretty much cemented Carter getting 25 min a game.

[bleedXblue]

Carter has been a disappointment IMHO. Mostly how he cant finish around the rim. Almost no range outside of 8-10 feet means you better be able to score inside.

[xavierj]

James? I mean I know he isn't a world beater, but not getting ANY minutes is very telling.

We are gonna have more room AGAIN this year for multiple transfers or 5th year guys.

I really wish we would solidify this recruiting thing.......

James scares me when he gets on the court other than mop up time. He looks like a walk-on on the court. Shot isn’t great and he doesn’t seem like he has a ton of athleticism. I like that he has tried though. I know that he had good production against St Johns early but he just didn’t show me he had it that you could be confident in playing him. As for transfers, unless it’s a bonafide high major sit out, I would pass. If Scruggs and Marshall, or even one of them come back, plus the three guys coming in, Xavier shouldn’t need a 5th year guy. Say if everyone comes back, you have 5 high minute returnees, 2 bigs who sat our with a year in the system and on paper three high major recruits. That’s 10 guys. No one really wants more than that. Now if Marshall and Scruggs both leave you may take a 5th year guy.

[XU 87]

Carter has been a disappointment IMHO. Mostly how he cant finish around the rim. Almost no range outside of 8-10 feet means you better be able to score inside.

Fair assessment. I thought we were going to get a lot more offensively out of him, and I thought he would have more shooting range. I also hope that he will be Travis Taylor part 2- tough junior year but a very good senior year.

[xu koop scoop]

We did waste minutes on a walkon starting the first two games. Perhaps if you gave Bishop more minutes in those games things would have turned out different...but probably not. In general, though, I think it's fine to let the freshmen play through the absolute sucking in the early part of the season to pay dividends later in the year IF you think they're talented enough.

Agree we wasted minutes 1st two games with Schrand. Had he continued to get valuable minutes, it wouldn't have been a waste. I believe the Schrand plan immediately had a bad karma affect on team chemistry. Coach knew he had better players getting lesser minutes cause he wanted to send a message letting Schrand start. That would piss me off if I'm one of those better players. Also, some great practice players falter when the lights of game day come on. Others who aren't as motivated in practice play lights out (pun intended) when the crowds come pouring in. Did Steele himself play competitive basketball?

[JTG]

This idea that practice is the only factor in game minutes is disturbing to me. Yes, players have to be motivated to practice, but sometimes I wonder. It's almost as if a guy could drop 20 pts., have a bad week of practice, and be benched the next game. A guy like Allen Iverson would probably have never seen the floor in our system.
I read somewhere that Nova's 3 recruit requirements are: Athletic, Shooter, and High BB IQ. I think X's only requirements are Athleticism, and flashy video.

[AviatorX]

This idea that practice is the only factor in game minutes is disturbing to me. Yes, players have to be motivated to practice, but sometimes I wonder. It's almost as if a guy could drop 20 pts., have a bad week of practice, and be benched the next game. A guy like Allen Iverson would probably have never seen the floor in our system.
I read somewhere that Nova's 3 recruit requirements are: Athletic, Shooter, and High BB IQ. I think X's only requirements are Athleticism, and flashy video.

Who said practice is the only factor in game minutes? I think MOR made that up.

[GIMMFD]

James? I mean I know he isn't a world beater, but not getting ANY minutes is very telling.

We are gonna have more room AGAIN this year for multiple transfers or 5th year guys.

I really wish we would solidify this recruiting thing.......

I honestly think it's been a mixture of a couple bad classes, and then poor luck. The 2017 class gave us Scruggs, Naji, and Elias Harden, and 2018 gave us James , Jake Walter, and Keonte Kennedy. The 2017 class was good, but Elias left the program, the 2018 class was not so good. Then the 2019 class was good, but now Bishop has left the program. The thing that's kind of been killing us is losing attrition, the 2019 class looked amazing on paper, just as 2020 looks damn good on paper is well. I think we have very good recruiters on staff getting us in on some pretty good prospects. Obviously don't think X will ever be a 5* factory, but I think the recruiting has been stable with just a lot of bad luck, and that one 2018 class really coming back to bite us in the ass with depth.

[xcellentx]

Agree we wasted minutes 1st two games with Schrand. Had he continued to get valuable minutes, it wouldn't have been a waste. I believe the Schrand plan immediately had a bad karma affect on team chemistry. Coach knew he had better players getting lesser minutes cause he wanted to send a message letting Schrand start. That would piss me off if I'm one of those better players. Also, some great practice players falter when the lights of game day come on. Others who aren't as motivated in practice play lights out (pun intended) when the crowds come pouring in. Did Steele himself play competitive basketball?

Who got lesser minutes because Schrand started? Schrand played 17 and 21 minutes in the first two games. Tandy was injured and Scruggs didn't play against Siena because of injury. It mostly seems like his minutes came from Carter and maybe Naji.

Freemantle played 19 min in both, Bishop played 21 and 23, James played 7 and 15. I think right around 20 min for the two freshman is all you can expect in the first 2 games.

[xcellentx]

This idea that practice is the only factor in game minutes is disturbing to me. Yes, players have to be motivated to practice, but sometimes I wonder. It's almost as if a guy could drop 20 pts., have a bad week of practice, and be benched the next game. A guy like Allen Iverson would probably have never seen the floor in our system.
I read somewhere that Nova's 3 recruit requirements are: Athletic, Shooter, and High BB IQ. I think X's only requirements are Athleticism, and flashy video.

Obviously practice isn't the only thing that is keeping guys off the court. Basically the only guy who is not getting minutes that you might expect to get minutes and isn't is James. Who has over-performed and not gotten minutes?

[xcellentx]

I honestly think it's been a mixture of a couple bad classes, and then poor luck. The 2017 class gave us Scruggs, Naji, and Elias Harden, and 2018 gave us James , Jake Walter, and Keonte Kennedy. The 2017 class was good, but Elias left the program, the 2018 class was not so good. Then the 2019 class was good, but now Bishop has left the program. The thing that's kind of been killing us is losing attrition, the 2019 class looked amazing on paper, just as 2020 looks damn good on paper is well. I think we have very good recruiters on staff getting us in on some pretty good prospects. Obviously don't think X will ever be a 5* factory, but I think the recruiting has been stable with just a lot of bad luck, and that one 2018 class really coming back to bite us in the ass with depth.

Had the 2018 class had one decent recruit around 75-125 in the rankings with a bluiett/tandy type skill set I think we would have been better of both this year and last year.

We basically would not have been able to field a team without 3 Grad transfers last year. Most teams would have taken Carter this year, he was one of the most highly rated transfers and he had two years left. We also basically needed those 2 grad transfers atleast for depth this year. I hope our roster depth is strong enough next year to not need a grad transfer next year unless there is great player out there.

[bleedXblue]

The Gold jersey is great. Scruggs has had it the last 3 weeks......

2 of the last 3 games he's not been a factor. And don't show me his Nova line. He scored most of his points very late in that game when it was already decided.

[xavierj]

The Gold jersey is great. Scruggs has had it the last 3 weeks......

2 of the last 3 games he's not been a factor. And don't show me his Nova line. He scored most of his points very late in that game when it was already decided.

So if you are coach, when you bench Scruggs, who you bringing in? Maybe the entire team sucks at practice and you just have to play the best guys you have.

[xavierj]

I think some people would be happy if we benched everyone and started Hanson, Schrand, James, Moore and one of the other walk-on’s. You have to field a team.

[bleedXblue]

So if you are coach, when you bench Scruggs, who you bringing in? Maybe the entire team sucks at practice and you just have to play the best guys you have.

You a little edgy? Jeesh

My point is its great that you practice your ass off. HE in particular has to be more assertive in games. All of our guards have to play better........

[X-band '01]

I want to start a fire Roy thread.
He's last place in the 15 team AAC.
He's going to have a losing record.
He obviously can't coach.

But at least he's taking his medicine and not throwing a longtime assistant (aka Pete Gaudet) under the bus.

[xavierj]

You a little edgy? Jeesh

My point is its great that you practice your ass off. HE in particular has to be more assertive in games. All of our guards have to play better........

Agreed

[scoscox]

if we're gonna finish the year strong, scruggs and kyky have to both be more assertive

[smileyy]

Banners on the Parkway has talked a lot about how Scruggs loses a lot of his game by having to play the 1. Unfortunately there are no other options since the appearance of Quentin Bad-in.

[scoscox]

Banners on the Parkway has talked a lot about how Scruggs loses a lot of his game by having to play the 1. Unfortunately there are no other options since the appearance of Quentin Bad-in.

or we could just play kyky at the 1 to start the game...

[bleedXblue]

or we could just play kyky at the 1 to start the game...

BINGO Would love to see this for 20 minutes a game......

[GoMuskies]

I don't know about Travis, but Leitao has to go. I'd pull my hair out if I had to cheer for that team. Brutal.

[Lloyd Braun]

I don't know about Travis, but Leitao has to go. I'd pull my hair out if I had to cheer for that team. Brutal.

They should fire him then bring him back AGAIN. Third time’s the charm.

[GIMMFD]

They should fire him then bring him back AGAIN. Third time’s the charm.

Hahah that's definitely how that works right? I really thought DePaul might have turned a corner, especially getting to above .500 overall last year, and MIGHT actually be decent, foolish of me to think that quite frankly.

[X-band '01]

I don't know about Travis, but Leitao has to go. I'd pull my hair out if I had to cheer for that team. Brutal.

Has a coach ever gotten a contract extension and got fired in the same year?

[UCGRAD4X]

Has a coach ever gotten a contract extension and got fired in the same year?

Not sure if I can actually name one off the top of my head - but would not be surprised if it happened quite a few times.

Thinking of a AD trying to calm the fears and indicate complete confidence in the coach (otherwise on the hot seat) by giving an extension. When the year turns out bad (as is not unlikely given the recent difficulties) summarily shown the door.

[noteggs]

Has a coach ever gotten a contract extension and got fired in the same year?

Jeff Fisher LA Rams

[xcellentx]

Jeff Fisher LA Rams

Basically the definition of a mediocre coach.

[Mrs. Garrett]

I don't know about Travis, but Leitao has to go. I'd pull my hair out if I had to cheer for that team. Brutal.

I grew up in Chicago and my love of basketball started with the 1979 Final Four run as a 5 year old. They were my team until I came to Xavier and still follow them out of nostalgia.

Not only does Leitao need to go, but they need to fire the AD because she cannot be involved in hiring the next coach.

I've never seen a team collapse like this. From 12-1 to 14-14 without any type of adversity. No injuries, no suspensions, just horrible coaching.

[X-band '01]

Wasn't Devin Gage injured back around December?

But good luck getting rid of Ponsetto (aka the Frank McLaughlin of the Windy City).

[mid major]

Anyone else concerned that we have scholarship players on the bench who don’t even get a chance to take off their warm ups? It wouldn’t appear it bodes well for them for their career at Xavier. I thought James was going to be a contributor following the SJU game. What the hell happened.

[nuts4xu]

Anyone else concerned that we have scholarship players on the bench who don’t even get a chance to take off their warm ups? It wouldn’t appear it bodes well for them for their career at Xavier. I thought James was going to be a contributor following the SJU game. What the hell happened.

I am not the least bit concerned about playing time for our players. It always works itself out. If they can't get playing time, they will either transfer out, or accept their role. I can rattle off dozens of examples of players that I expected to contribute, and stayed the entire 4 years. I also can cite several players who never cracked the lineup, only to work their way into a viable role later in their careers.

This is the way college basketball works in this day and age. There are so many options for these players, they should be able to find a school that fits their wants and needs. Sometimes it is at Xavier, and if it's not, I wish them well wherever they land.

[xcellentx]

I am not the least bit concerned about playing time for our players. It always works itself out. If they can't get playing time, they will either transfer out, or accept their role. I can rattle off dozens of examples of players that I expected to contribute, and stayed the entire 4 years. I also can cite several players who never cracked the lineup, only to work their way into a viable role later in their careers.

This is the way college basketball works in this day and age. There are so many options for these players, they should be able to find a school that fits their wants and needs. Sometimes it is at Xavier, and if it's not, I wish them well wherever they land.

Plus, every team has scholarship players who only get mop up minutes. I'm disappointed that we haven't seen James more, but there is probably a good reason for that. Hopefully he is improving and can contribute next year.

[bleedXblue]

Anyone else concerned that we have scholarship players on the bench who don’t even get a chance to take off their warm ups? It wouldn’t appear it bodes well for them for their career at Xavier. I thought James was going to be a contributor following the SJU game. What the hell happened.

Not one bit. Its essentially one player. For some reason he's shown the staff he isn't one of the best 8-9 players

[chico]

Has there ever been a scholarship player we've had that didn't see minutes, transferred, then performed better than the players he was behind while here? I can't recall that ever happening.

[XU 87]

Has there ever been a scholarship player we've had that didn't see minutes, transferred, then performed better than the players he was behind while here? I can't recall that ever happening.

I can think of one guy - David Young back in early millennium who transferred after his junior year to NC Central where he averaged over 20 per game and then got drafted by the NBA in the second round.

Edit- Young got kicked off the team during his junior year, but he wasn't seeing much Pt. I think he got kicked off after he MF'd Matta after a game because he was pissed about his lack of PT.

[scoscox]

I grew up in Chicago and my love of basketball started with the 1979 Final Four run as a 5 year old. They were my team until I came to Xavier and still follow them out of nostalgia.

Not only does Leitao need to go, but they need to fire the AD because she cannot be involved in hiring the next coach.

I've never seen a team collapse like this. From 12-1 to 14-14 without any type of adversity. No injuries, no suspensions, just horrible coaching.

basically directly after paul reed tweeted that they "want all the smoke" their season totally collapsed

[CP05XU08CU13]

What adds to the frustration is that this is happening at Cintas. If it happens on the road we say, "Man it's tough to win on the road in the Big East."

Not for Seton Hall or Creighton, apparently.

I can't see many of our fans becoming complacent and making the home court even less of an advantage. I hope they are few and far between.

As a lifelong Omaha resident, and Xavier and Creighton grad, it is bizarre that Xavier cannot field a team that performs better than Creighton year in and year out. I think McDermott is a solid coach (nowhere near as good as Dana Altman was), but Omaha does not offer near the amenities of Cincinnati. This is something that partially attracts recruits. Things to do outside of basketball is a bonus. Thus, the blame lies with Travis. He is either doing a poor job at recruiting or a poor job at developing players. It could be a combination of both. Subpar seasons at Xavier are unacceptable. The fan base expects quick results. This is not unrealistic when you look at the success of other Jesuit/Catholic basketball programs that consistently perform well. I think Travis will have a short leash next year. One more poor season and he is toast!

[XU 87]

Since Creighton joined the BE, you've been to the NCAA's three times. You've won one game.

At the same time, X has been to the NCAA's 5 times, winning 7 games, and has also had a 1 and a 2 seed.

So I think it's fair to say that X has been pretty much better than Creighton, year after year.

[Blue Blooded-05]

Has there ever been a scholarship player we've had that didn't see minutes, transferred, then performed better than the players he was behind while here? I can't recall that ever happening.


I can think of one guy - David Young back in early millennium who transferred after his junior year to NC Central where he averaged over 20 per game and then got drafted by the NBA in the second round.

Edit- Young got kicked off the team during his junior year, but he wasn't seeing much Pt. I think he got kicked off after he MF'd Matta after a game because he was pissed about his lack of PT.

D Young started every game the year before he was booted. So he went from little PT as a frosh to a ton of PT as a soph (on a very solid team) to no PT again as a jr..

Another guy on that 2001-02 team, Jaison Williams sat behind Chalmers and transferred from X to Oklahoma. He had a productive career as a Sooner where he was coincidentally back court mates with Drew Lavender.

[XU 87]

D Young started every game the year before he was booted. So he went from little PT as a frosh to a ton of PT as a soph (on a very solid team) to no PT again as a jr..

Another guy on that 2001-02 team, Jaison Williams sat behind Chalmers and transferred from X to Oklahoma. He had a productive career as a Sooner where he was coincidentally back court mates with Drew Lavender.

I read an old article about Young getting kicked off the team. His junior year he lost PT to both Chalmers and Dedrick Finn. My recollection is that he was playing a few minutes a game before he got kicked off, and when he did get in he would just launch threes.

I thought about Williams, but I don't think he left because of PT. I thought he played a fair amount his freshman year. I think he was just kind of a different guy who went to multiple high schools and then multiple colleges. Didn't he transfer to Colorado and then transferred to OK?

[nuts4xu]

Thus, the blame lies with Travis. He is either doing a poor job at recruiting or a poor job at developing players. It could be a combination of both. Subpar seasons at Xavier are unacceptable. The fan base expects quick results.

Troll much?

[Xavier]

I think McDermott is a solid coach (nowhere near as good as Dana Altman was), but Omaha does not offer near the amenities of Cincinnati. This is something that partially attracts recruits.

I think Xavier has outperformed Creighton since joining the BE, for sure. Granted both teams have had miserable flame outs in the tournament. I think McDermott is a solid coach- he has a good offensive system that attracts players and the stadium/crowd is pretty great too. I'd start to be a little concerned with him if they have yet another early out in March, though.

[AviatorX]

Xavier hasn't outperformed Creighton since joining the Big East, they've outperformed Creighton since the schools started sponsoring a basketball team.

[D-West & PO-Z]

This idea that practice is the only factor in game minutes is disturbing to me. Yes, players have to be motivated to practice, but sometimes I wonder. It's almost as if a guy could drop 20 pts., have a bad week of practice, and be benched the next game. A guy like Allen Iverson would probably have never seen the floor in our system.
I read somewhere that Nova's 3 recruit requirements are: Athletic, Shooter, and High BB IQ. I think X's only requirements are Athleticism, and flashy video.

I'm seriously confused on who people think should be getting more minutes? Do we have someone who has dropped 20 points and had a bad practice and doesnt play now?

Carter has been disappointing and seriously lacks confidence at times but he is light years better than James from what I have seen. An to say he doesnt have range outside of 8-10 feet is confusing. He shoots the same % from 3 thats Naji does.

To me Bryce Moore is the biggest disappointment.

Also I cant believe some of you made me defend Jason Carter. I have been so disappointed with him so many games, but seriously we have literally no one else right now that could take minutes from him.

[AviatorX]

I'm seriously confused on who people think should be getting more minutes? Do we have someone who has dropped 20 points and had a bad practice and doesnt play now?

Carter has been disappointing and seriously lacks confidence at times but he is light years better than James from what I have seen. An to say he doesnt have range outside of 8-10 feet is confusing. He shoots the same % from 3 thats Naji does.

To me Bryce Moore is the biggest disappointment.

Also I cant believe some of you made me defend Jason Carter. I have been so disappointed with him so many games, but seriously we have literally no one else right now that could take minutes from him.

After the rock bottom effort at Marquette, Steele set the starting 5 for the next game (vs. Georgetown) according to "Xavier Way" practice points. It just so happens this lineup has won 5 of 7, so Steele has stuck with it. This has led to a contingent on here accusing Steele of only giving playing time based on practice points, even citing players like Tu Holloway and Jordan Crawford who may not have been the strongest in practice, I guess to give the impression that Steele would not have given them minutes? It is confusing.

There's absolutely no evidence that Steele doles out minutes purely based on practice performance. And as you correctly pointed out, all potential contributors to the team are playing significant minutes, so the frustration some have is pretty misplaced.

"A guy like Allen Iverson would probably have never seen the floor in our system" is probably one of the best lines ever posted to this forum.

[chico]

I read an old article about Young getting kicked off the team. His junior year he lost PT to both Chalmers and Dedrick Finn. My recollection is that he was playing a few minutes a game before he got kicked off, and when he did get in he would just launch threes.

I thought about Williams, but I don't think he left because of PT. I thought he played a fair amount his freshman year. I think he was just kind of a different guy who went to multiple high schools and then multiple colleges. Didn't he transfer to Colorado and then transferred to OK?

Young did play well at NC Central but that was a step down in competition. Someone like Williams is really the only one that remotely fits, and even he's a stretch because like you said it wasn't just playing time. He did play a fair amount at Oklahoma - I looked him up and he average about 20 min/game with them. Didn't see any mention of Colorado - maybe he was considering there then decided on OU?

So I think over the past 30 years to have possibly 1 or 2 transfers that played better after they left says a lot about the coaches and their decisions as to who should be playing. Now maybe Steele is the anomaly to all this - 2 years is a short frame of reference - but based on past history it looks like we can trust that the coaches know who should be playing and who should not.

[usfldan]

According to this link, Jaison Williams spent a year in Juco at the College of Southern Idaho in between Xavier and Oklahoma. He went to high school in Colorado:

https://sites.google.com/site/play2winhoops/player-profiles/jaison-williams-g

[GoMuskies]

Didn't Jaison Williams score like 100 against us in the NCAA Tournament? Or was that the asshole UC transfer (or both)? All I know is that I still have illogically strong negative feelings towards him.

Oh, it was the UC transfer. I don't like him!

[94GRAD]

I remember some player that transferred to Maryland that had a great career post X.

[GoMuskies]

I remember some player that transferred to Maryland that had a great career post X.

Yes, and he transferred because he had TOO MUCH playa time.

[Smails]

As a lifelong Omaha resident, and Xavier and Creighton grad, it is bizarre that Xavier cannot field a team that performs better than Creighton year in and year out. !

I had no idea the weed in Omaha was that good. Can we hook up next time I'm through there?

[CP05XU08CU13]

Since Creighton joined the BE, you've been to the NCAA's three times. You've won one game.

At the same time, X has been to the NCAA's 5 times, winning 7 games, and has also had a 1 and a 2 seed.

So I think it's fair to say that X has been pretty much better than Creighton, year after year.

Just voicing my frustrations of where we are currently in the pecking order of the Big East. I would love to see Xavier towards the top of the conference every year. Solid basketball programs do not rebuild, they reload. Villanova will always be up there. Seton Hall has been pretty consistent as well. I know it is an unfair comparison because teams like Gonzaga and Dayton play in inferior conferences, but seeing them in the top 5 in the country and Xavier not even in the top 25 is a little concerning. I will always support Xavier. I understand we were spoiled for a number of years, but I want to see them towards the top echelon again! Not sure if Travis is the guy that can get them there or not.

[AviatorX]

Just voicing my frustrations of where we are currently in the pecking order of the Big East. I would love to see Xavier towards the top of the conference every year. Solid basketball programs do not rebuild, they reload. Villanova will always be up there. Seton Hall has been pretty consistent as well. I know it is an unfair comparison because teams like Gonzaga and Dayton play in inferior conferences, but seeing them in the top 5 in the country and Xavier not even in the top 25 is a little concerning. I will always support Xavier. I understand we were spoiled for a number of years, but I want to see them towards the top echelon again! Not sure if Travis is the guy that can get them there or not.

It seems like you may have forgotten, but Xavier won an outright Big East title and was a 1 seed a whole two years ago.

[CP05XU08CU13]

It seems like you may have forgotten, but Xavier won an outright Big East title and was a 1 seed a whole two years ago.

No, I have not forgotten about two years ago. That was a great achievement, but under a different head coach. I am talking about the here and now. The #1 seed should have helped tremendously with recruiting. I do not like to dwell on the past. I am just hoping that Travis can get to the same level as his predecessors. I am still a little skeptical at this time. Men’s basketball is a huge moneymaker. It essentially put the University on the map. I do not want to see the basketball program sink into mediocrity. I think most boosters would agree with that assessment.

[noteggs]

The #1 seed should have helped tremendously with recruiting.

Not sure I’m following you here. After we got a number 1 seed, we landed Freemantle, Tandy and hopefully a great PG for the future Dwon Odom. Not to mention what we might have in Ramsey and Miles.

After going to the elite, you would think we would land a highly talented recruiting class, but Mack completely struck out. Only D James remains on the that recruiting class.

[Lloyd Braun]

I think these close ugly games are partially by design. I’m not suggesting Travis is a basketball genius but I think he has his finger on the pulse of the team and knows their limitations. The bench is rather thin, the FT shooting is poop, the turnovers are inevitable, and the resilience is solid. Just win, baby.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Well I officially hate Creighton now. I had no clue their fans were morons. This person can’t be serious is he? Had to be a VD fan, nobody can be that stupid.

[stammina0721]

Just voicing my frustrations of where we are currently in the pecking order of the Big East. I would love to see Xavier towards the top of the conference every year. Solid basketball programs do not rebuild, they reload. Villanova will always be up there. Seton Hall has been pretty consistent as well. I know it is an unfair comparison because teams like Gonzaga and Dayton play in inferior conferences, but seeing them in the top 5 in the country and Xavier not even in the top 25 is a little concerning. I will always support Xavier. I understand we were spoiled for a number of years, but I want to see them towards the top echelon again! Not sure if Travis is the guy that can get them there or not.

Also we technically can still finish 4th if the perfect scenario hits. Can not help this team blew the Marquette game. Get that one X is playing for 4th on Wednesday

[X-band '01]

Yes, Marquette got away, but I'm of the belief that there would not have been the same sense of urgency to win at Seton Hall had they beaten Marquette.

Even beating Providence ugly at home is looking better and better now. (Useless trivia - Xavier is the only team to beat the Friars in their road throwbacks)

[CP05XU08CU13]

Well I officially hate Creighton now. I had no clue their fans were morons. This person can’t be serious is he? Had to be a VD fan, nobody can be that stupid.

I did not say I was a Creighton fan. I just happen to be a Xavier alumnus that lives in the city where Creighton is located. Thus, I have an opportunity to see Creighton play in person more often. If you like the direction the program is heading under Travis, then that is fine. I am not sold on his recruiting and player development yet. That could change, but again, I was expecting a better showing this year. I hope things improve moving forward.

[stammina0721]

I did not say I was a Creighton fan. I just happen to be a Xavier alumnus that lives in the city where Creighton is located. Thus, I have an opportunity to see Creighton play in person more often. If you like the direction the program is heading under Travis, then that is fine. I am not sold on his recruiting and player development yet. That could change, but again, I was expecting a better showing this year. I hope things improve moving forward.

I'm curious how the town feels about McDermott. Dude wins games and gets to the tourney but always flames out early. Creighton never makes a run. Are fans there sick of his act?

[xukeith]

I'm curious how the town feels about McDermott. Dude wins games and gets to the tourney but always flames out early. Creighton never makes a run. Are fans there sick of his act?

Fans clinging on **** this year is different!

[GIMMFD]

I did not say I was a Creighton fan. I just happen to be a Xavier alumnus that lives in the city where Creighton is located. Thus, I have an opportunity to see Creighton play in person more often. If you like the direction the program is heading under Travis, then that is fine. I am not sold on his recruiting and player development yet. That could change, but again, I was expecting a better showing this year. I hope things improve moving forward.

How are you not sold on his recruiting??? Recruiting is one of the major strong points he has, even back to his assistant days to Mack.

[stammina0721]

How are you not sold on his recruiting??? Recruiting is one of the major strong points he has, even back to his assistant days to Mack.

Well he does have a point. How has Xavier , an upper/ middle level BE team not get a PG in 2 years to say yes

[stammina0721]

Fans clinging on **** this year is different!

So if they go out round one is his job in jeopardy?

[paulxu]

Well he does have a point. How has Xavier , an upper/ middle level BE team not get a PG in 2 years to say yes

Don't Kyky and Odom count?

[xavierj]

Well he does have a point. How has Xavier , an upper/ middle level BE team not get a PG in 2 years to say yes

You do realize that Steele has signed two classes right? Both in the top 20 and he signed Tandy and has a Top 40 player and PG in Odom coming in. He will also most likely have a top 20 recruiting class next year as well. Some people act like he has five classes under his belt.

[xavierj]

I did not say I was a Creighton fan. I just happen to be a Xavier alumnus that lives in the city where Creighton is located. Thus, I have an opportunity to see Creighton play in person more often. If you like the direction the program is heading under Travis, then that is fine. I am not sold on his recruiting and player development yet. That could change, but again, I was expecting a better showing this year. I hope things improve moving forward.

What about recruiting are you not sold on? He has two available freshman, Freemantle and Tandy. Both are big contributors as freshman. He only has one class under his belt that is eligible to play. He just got the job less than two years ago.

[stammina0721]

You do realize that Steele has signed two classes right? Both in the top 20 and he signed Tandy and has a Top 40 player and PG in Odom coming in. He will also most likely have a top 20 recruiting class next year as well. Some people act like he has five classes under his belt.

I'm fully aware of what is here but I honestly don't follow recruiting much because I don't really care about HS kids who are flaky as hell in their choices. However, you pointed out KyKy. KyKy is not a PG from what I see. He is a 2 guard who loves to shoot. I don't think anyone on here will mistake KyKy for a true PG. Not throwing shade at Kyky, I like him a lot, but he isn't looking to set up his teammates first. As far as Odom is concerned see above. I don't follow recruiting much so take my opinion with a grain of salt but I'll only believe he is a true PG when I see it with my own eyes on a college BB court

[stammina0721]

Just to clarify I would love to have a PG come in and KyKy just light it up on the scoreboard. I think KyKy can be Marcus Howard good by his senior year at the 2. Just don't try to tell me he is a PG first cause that isn't true

[Xville]

I'm fully aware of what is here but I honestly don't follow recruiting much because I don't really care about HS kids who are flaky as hell in their choices. However, you pointed out KyKy. KyKy is not a PG from what I see. He is a 2 guard who loves to shoot. I don't think anyone on here will mistake KyKy for a true PG. Not throwing shade at Kyky, I like him a lot, but he isn't looking to set up his teammates first. As far as Odom is concerned see above. I don't follow recruiting much so take my opinion with a grain of salt but I'll only believe he is a true PG when I see it with my own eyes on a college BB court

If you dont care about what hs kids do and dont follow recruiting much, then you shouldn't in the same breath make comments about Steele's recruiting because a) you dont care about hs kids and b) you dont follow recruiting much.

Steele has had two recruiting classes. He got a top 40 pg in the second class.

[kellernr]

He still needs to do a better job keeping the team focused. They come out hot and build up a decent lead then let off the gas. Needs to get on them and keep the foot on the gas. Other than that he seems to have them playing great in February/March again.

Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[stammina0721]

If you dont care about what hs kids do and dont follow recruiting much, then you shouldn't in the same breath make comments about Steele's recruiting because a) you dont care about hs kids and b) you dont follow recruiting much.

Steele has had two recruiting classes. He got a top 40 pg in the second class.

Yes I don't follow recruiting much, however my comment is more about Steele building his team. For the last few years Xavier has not brought in a PG who could give significant minutes. Yes, we had Q to.run the show, but what about someone to replace him if he went down?

Let's say Q actually played well and still started. One game Q turns an ankle and has to sit for 4 games to heal up? Then what does X do? ( And yes I know it's what we have pretty much been watching all year)

So what I'm really commenting on is the lack of foresight and planning on Steele's part. How can we go two years and not bring in one PG to back up Q and start if an injury occured so Scruggs isn't at the point?

If Odom is a true PG then great. But he also can't be our only one like Q is now. We need two to maintain consistency. I think that is why X looks so bad offensively this year is that lack of consistency because of Scruggs having to be at the one

[xavierj]

Yes I don't follow recruiting much, however my comment is more about Steele building his team. For the last few years Xavier has not brought in a PG who could give significant minutes. Yes, we had Q to.run the show, but what about someone to replace him if he went down?

Let's say Q actually played well and still started. One game Q turns an ankle and has to sit for 4 games to heal up? Then what does X do? ( And yes I know it's what we have pretty much been watching all year)

So what I'm really commenting on is the lack of foresight and planning on Steele's part. How can we go two years and not bring in one PG to back up Q and start if an injury occured so Scruggs isn't at the point?

If Odom is a true PG then great. But he also can't be our only one like Q is now. We need two to maintain consistency. I think that is why X looks so bad offensively this year is that lack of consistency because of Scruggs having to be at the one

Do a lot of teams carry two true PG’s? Do some research, you will be surprised that most teams don’t have two true PG’s. Who are KY’s two true PG’s? Duke? Kansas? Teams typically don’t. You can’t carry two of every position and if you did, one player would transfer because you can’t give enough minutes. Teams typically have one PG and then other guys who can fill in. The funny thing is, when Goodin and Tandy are in the game together, Tandy brings the ball up. And Tandy played PG for like 6 years for his high school team.

[Xville]

Yep...tandy is more of a combo guard at this level it seems but he can certainly back that position up. Odom will be another option this year.

I swear...steele has had 2 top 20 classes in his first two years. What else do you want the guy to do on that front? I mean shit

[Masterofreality]

No, I have not forgotten about two years ago. That was a great achievement, but under a different head coach. I am talking about the here and now. The #1 seed should have helped tremendously with recruiting. I do not like to dwell on the past. I am just hoping that Travis can get to the same level as his predecessors. I am still a little skeptical at this time. Men’s basketball is a huge moneymaker. It essentially put the University on the map. I do not want to see the basketball program sink into mediocrity. I think most boosters would agree with that assessment.

Thank Gawd for Naji's magic from Long Range when it really counts, or this team is 15-14, or worse. And he almost saved the Marquette game too. It shouldn't come down to relying on one kid, no matter how great he is in the clutch (2 frees at crunch yesterday too) to beat a shorthanded team.

[Xavier]

I think KyKy can be Marcus Howard good by his senior year at the 2. Just don't try to tell me he is a PG first cause that isn't true

That is a lofty goal- I don't see it. But I do think KyKy will be really good. Great potential

Also, did anyone see Xavier is now 12 in defensive efficiency? I much prefer Mack and offense- but the team has improved 90 spots on defense this year (I saw that on twitter)....that is pretty good, and you do have to give Steele some credit on that.

[Smails]

Thank Gawd for Naji's magic from Long Range when it really counts, or this team is 15-14, or worse. And he almost saved the Marquette game too. It shouldn't come down to relying on one kid, no matter how great he is in the clutch (2 frees at crunch yesterday too) to beat a shorthanded team.

How many teams in the country would have 3-4 more losses if their best player was unable to make winning plays in big, late game situations?

[Masterofreality]

How many teams in the country would have 3-4 more losses if their best player was unable to make winning plays in big, late game situations?

I don't know, but 4 times 28-30 foot 3's????
Probably no one on that stat.

[xcellentx]

Yes I don't follow recruiting much, however my comment is more about Steele building his team. For the last few years Xavier has not brought in a PG who could give significant minutes. Yes, we had Q to.run the show, but what about someone to replace him if he went down?

Let's say Q actually played well and still started. One game Q turns an ankle and has to sit for 4 games to heal up? Then what does X do? ( And yes I know it's what we have pretty much been watching all year)

So what I'm really commenting on is the lack of foresight and planning on Steele's part. How can we go two years and not bring in one PG to back up Q and start if an injury occured so Scruggs isn't at the point?

If Odom is a true PG then great. But he also can't be our only one like Q is now. We need two to maintain consistency. I think that is why X looks so bad offensively this year is that lack of consistency because of Scruggs having to be at the one

You say the Steele has lack of foresight the last few years building this team, but he has only had one recruiting class in which to do so. Last year's freshman class was Mack's, by the time Steele took over most recruits had already committed so it's not like there were a lot of 4 star PG's out there that he could grab. That was Mack's miss.

Kyky is not a your true PG sure, but he can play the point. And as other people have said Odom is that guy to take over the PG spot. It seems like in this case Steele is doing a much better job of this than Mack was doing.

[xcellentx]

I don't know, but 4 times 28-30 foot 3's????
Probably no one on that stat.

If it happens 4 times maybe that is more of a trend than magic.

[Smails]

I don't know, but 4 times 28-30 foot 3's????
Probably no one on that stat.

I don't care if it was 2 foot lay ups of half court granny shots...winning plays are winning plays and Naji is making them this year. I guess I just enjoy watching our best player step up when the team needs him and not playing the 'what if those shots DON'T go in' game. To each his own.

[Masterofreality]

I don't care if it was 2 foot lay ups of half court granny shots...winning plays are winning plays and Naji is making them this year. I guess I just enjoy watching our best player step up when the team needs him and not playing the 'what if those shots DON'T go in' game. To each his own.

I’m giving the dude full credit!! It’s just that it shouldn’t have come to That!
Naji is bailing Steele out big time this year.

[BandDad]

I’m giving the dude full credit!! It’s just that it shouldn’t have come to That!
Naji is bailing Steele out big time this year.

Not to be a negative Nellie but if Naji wasn't leading the Big East in turnovers this year (while handling the ball far less than Charlie Moore and Markus Howard), maybe we wouldn't need heroes at the end of the game as much?

[mid major]

I need his magic for a few more games. I have a bottle of Basil Hayden riding on it.

[Masterofreality]

Not to be a negative Nellie but if Naji wasn't leading the Big East in turnovers this year (while handling the ball far less than Charlie Moore and Markus Howard), maybe we wouldn't need heroes at the end of the game as much?

Somebody who is an analytics guru should calculate Naji’s usage rate. Gotta be 100% that he gets a touch on every possession. Dude has a LOT on his shoulders, and he’s not even the point guard but is asked to bring the ball up a lot.
And, yeah. I’ll always defend the player.

[smileyy]

The Xavier page on KenPom (premium, I don't subscribe) will have the top usage players on the team listed.

[smileyy]

Sports Reference has good advanced stats:
https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/naji-marshall-1.html

[Masterofreality]

Sports Reference has good advanced stats:
https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/naji-marshall-1.html

Looks pretty good to me despite the criticism.

[drudy23]

He's our best player. He's also our, how do I say this, most not so smart player.

He kind of cancels himself out, but with his clutch shots, has probably moved the needle of doing more good than harm. If he could figure out some IQ aspects of his game, he'd be a potential NBA player (borderline).

[stammina0721]

You say the Steele has lack of foresight the last few years building this team, but he has only had one recruiting class in which to do so. Last year's freshman class was Mack's, by the time Steele took over most recruits had already committed so it's not like there were a lot of 4 star PG's out there that he could grab. That was Mack's miss.

Kyky is not a your true PG sure, but he can play the point. And as other people have said Odom is that guy to take over the PG spot. It seems like in this case Steele is doing a much better job of this than Mack was doing.

Technically speaking, yes you are correct that Steele has only one class under his belt. But he was the lead recruiter for Mack while he was here and closed the deals for many of our recruits. So while those go down as classes for Mack; Steele had a very heavy hand in starting and finalizing those classes as well

[stammina0721]

He's our best player. He's also our, how do I say this, most not so smart player.

He kind of cancels himself out, but with his clutch shots, has probably moved the needle of doing more good than harm. If he could figure out some IQ aspects of his game, he'd be a potential NBA player (borderline).

I would just like to see him dribble the ball lower than chest high

[Xavier]

He's our best player. He's also our, how do I say this, most not so smart player.

He kind of cancels himself out, but with his clutch shots, has probably moved the needle of doing more good than harm. If he could figure out some IQ aspects of his game, he'd be a potential NBA player (borderline).

Yep. We will go as far as he takes us- and that could be a decent run or out right away. The guy had a really bad play for an over and back call- then stepped inbounds with it after a made bucket?

Finishes with clutch 3. When he is on top of his game- he can really do a lot of damage, though.

[Masterofreality]

Yep. We will go as far as he takes us- and that could be a decent run or out right away. The guy had a really bad play for an over and back call- then stepped inbounds with it after a made bucket?

Finishes with clutch 3. When he is on top of his game- he can really do a lot of damage, though.

Naji did the exact step inbounds that Carter did vs DePaul at the end of the first half. Anybody saying Carter has a bad Basketball IQ, or is it just, errr, hmmmm.

[SM#24]

Naji did the exact step inbounds that Carter did vs DePaul at the end of the first half. Anybody saying Carter has a bad Basketball IQ, or is it just, errr, hmmmm.

I forget which game I was half watching yesterday after ours (maybe Lakers-NO), but there was also a similar faux pas (with no defenders in sight). I think it's just something that's spreading like COVID-19.

[GoMuskies]

Naji did the exact step inbounds that Carter did vs DePaul at the end of the first half. Anybody saying Carter has a bad Basketball IQ, or is it just, errr, hmmmm.

Is anyone out there saying Carter has a GOOD basketball IQ?!?

[Masterofreality]

Is anyone out there saying Carter has a GOOD basketball IQ?!?

I don't hear the IQ slander on him like on Naji and others.

[xcellentx]

Technically speaking, yes you are correct that Steele has only one class under his belt. But he was the lead recruiter for Mack while he was here and closed the deals for many of our recruits. So while those go down as classes for Mack; Steele had a very heavy hand in starting and finalizing those classes as well

It is true that Steele has been involved in recruiting, but the head coach is going to make calls about who to prioritize and how time is spent.

Your point was that Steele lacked foresight not having enough PG's, but in his first 2 recruiting classes that were solely his he brings in KyKy who can at least play some minutes there and a true PG in his second class. The criticism that he lacks foresight on this just doesn't make sense to me.

And if there is anything not to criticize Steele on at this point it is recruiting.

[drudy23]

JC's basketball IQ is average. He misses ALOT of 2 footers and ALOT of wide open 3s, but I haven't seen a consistent level of dumb plays as we've seen from Naji. Not even close.

[OTRMUSKIE]

I think JC is brilliant. I say his IQ is the highest in team at 83

[GoMuskies]

I don't hear the IQ slander on him like on Naji and others.

I suppose with Naji it mostly comes down to the fact our fans generally have eyes.

I have these issues a bit with Tyrique, too, but it's mostly a matter of keeping his emotions in check. I mean, who didn't know the technical was imminent the minute he and the Georgetown big man got separated? When he stopped posing for the student section in the second half he started playing like an All-American.

[drudy23]

I suppose with Naji it mostly comes down to the fact our fans generally have eyes.

.

LOL yes.

[Masterofreality]

I suppose with Naji it mostly comes down to the fact our fans generally have eyes.

I have these issues a bit with Tyrique, too, but it's mostly a matter of keeping his emotions in check. I mean, who didn't know the technical was imminent the minute he and the Georgetown big man got separated? When he stopped posing for the student section in the second half he started playing like an All-American.

I'm sure Naji's Plus/Minus is pretty damn good. Not sure I can say the same thing with Carter

[GoMuskies]

I think Jason Carter is a pretty good MAC player.

[Masterofreality]

I think Jason Carter is a pretty good MAC player.

Announcement: "WE HAVE COMMON GROUND!!!!"

[paulxu]

When one guy handles the ball 5X more than the other guy...you might notice things more.

[chico]

Technically speaking, yes you are correct that Steele has only one class under his belt. But he was the lead recruiter for Mack while he was here and closed the deals for many of our recruits. So while those go down as classes for Mack; Steele had a very heavy hand in starting and finalizing those classes as well

Mack didn't do Steele any favors telling the kids they should start considering Louisville instead of Xavier. And if you're going to somehow discount him for not having a stocked cupboard after Mack poisoned the well, let's look at the team that was here just prior to Mack leaving - the talent there wasn't too shabby.

I don't get the criticism. Getting Hankins last year at the last minute was a find, and Tandy and Fremantle are already either starting or getting a lot of minutes. And next year's class has a pretty well consensus ranking in the top 20. I'm going to cut the guy some slack.

[xavierj]

I would just like to see him dribble the ball lower than chest high

That’s a great point. Someone needs to get this to the coaches so after they practice the warmup routine, practicing layups and breaking the press, they can get some fundamental dribbling drills in at practice. I always like the two ball dribble, criss cross through the legs and practicing the low dribble with one hand protecting the ball. They should make sure to get those in.

[Lloyd Braun]

I'm sure Naji's Plus/Minus is pretty damn good. Not sure I can say the same thing with Carter

Naji’s is better than Carter’s. Carter’s is better than Fremantle but that is skewed from early season rotations. Jones’ +/- is tops.

[Muskie]

Mack didn't do Steele any favors telling the kids they should start considering Louisville instead of Xavier. And if you're going to somehow discount him for not having a stocked cupboard after Mack poisoned the well, let's look at the team that was here just prior to Mack leaving - the talent there wasn't too shabby.

I don't get the criticism. Getting Hankins last year at the last minute was a find, and Tandy and Fremantle are already either starting or getting a lot of minutes. And next year's class has a pretty well consensus ranking in the top 20. I'm going to cut the guy some slack.

Can you imagine this team with an extra year of Hankins?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro

[GoMuskies]

Can you imagine this team with an extra year of Hankins?


That's just mean. Way to ruin my evening!

[scoscox]

Mack didn't do Steele any favors telling the kids they should start considering Louisville instead of Xavier. And if you're going to somehow discount him for not having a stocked cupboard after Mack poisoned the well, let's look at the team that was here just prior to Mack leaving - the talent there wasn't too shabby.

I don't get the criticism. Getting Hankins last year at the last minute was a find, and Tandy and Fremantle are already either starting or getting a lot of minutes. And next year's class has a pretty well consensus ranking in the top 20. I'm going to cut the guy some slack.

mack's last class was a real beaut too. keonte kennedy and dontarius james after we'd been in the top ten 3 years in a row. how nice would it be to have a legitimate sophomore class?

[AviatorX]

He's our best player. He's also our, how do I say this, most not so smart player.

He kind of cancels himself out, but with his clutch shots, has probably moved the needle of doing more good than harm. If he could figure out some IQ aspects of his game, he'd be a potential NBA player (borderline).

Dude, this is crazy. This team would be absolutely terrible without Naji Marshall. Imagine how the offense would look.

Cancels himself out??? What???

[GIMMFD]

Mack didn't do Steele any favors telling the kids they should start considering Louisville instead of Xavier. And if you're going to somehow discount him for not having a stocked cupboard after Mack poisoned the well, let's look at the team that was here just prior to Mack leaving - the talent there wasn't too shabby.

I don't get the criticism. Getting Hankins last year at the last minute was a find, and Tandy and Fremantle are already either starting or getting a lot of minutes. And next year's class has a pretty well consensus ranking in the top 20. I'm going to cut the guy some slack.

I am fully in this camp, I really don't see how we can hate on Steele's recruiting. Bishop didn't work out, and Kennedy/Harden didn't work out of Mack's last class. Even with Steele as the top recruiter for Mack, I definitely agree that Mack having a foot out of the door for Louisville was very detrimental. How can you as a recruit commit 100% to a guy that may not even be there next year? The dynamic changes for the head assistant going to head man, and it's different for a recruit as well. I don't think many top recruits would be 100% convinced of a head coach in his first head man job ever, no matter the pedigree of the program.

Steele put together a damn good class in which Freemantle and Tandy look really good, plus we haven't seen what Ramsey can bring to the table either. Couple that with addressing the need for a good PG (I consider top 40 pretty damn good), and by all accounts good outside shooting threats, it's not like Travis is blind to what the roster needs. We'll be in the hunt for a transfer big man as well I'm sure, but I think Travis and company have done very well in prioritizing needs, and filling them with the talent required to succeed in the Big East moving forward. It's only his second year, give him some time to show that he can address team needs. Recruiting wise, it seems he's doing that very well.


mack's last class was a real beaut too. keonte kennedy and dontarius james after we'd been in the top ten 3 years in a row. how nice would it be to have a legitimate sophomore class?

This is so true, if we had some guys that could contribute in the Sophomore class it would do wonders, even if it were a shooter that could spell some minutes. One bad class can push a program back a lot, and we're not fortunate enough to be reloading with 5* talent every year.

[scoscox]

Yup, that class is a killer. If we lose both naji and paul we're gonna be up against the wall next year even if all 3 of our new guys are day 1 contributors. All of our major contributors will be underclassmen. Even if we had all 5 stars that'd be undesirable

[smileyy]

I have a feeling that Naji and Scruggs are both going to be working their way towards the NBA in the G-League next year.

[GIMMFD]

Yup, that class is a killer. If we lose both naji and paul we're gonna be up against the wall next year even if all 3 of our new guys are day 1 contributors. All of our major contributors will be underclassmen. Even if we had all 5 stars that'd be undesirable

Next year without Naji and Paul would be rough, definitely a lot of underclassmen and we'd go through some growing pains. It'd be very hard to watch, but if you think about it, could be a blessing in disguise getting these guys acquainted to the college game by throwing them into the fire. Either way, I'm sure the staff will be going after some graduate transfers that could help fill some roles.

[GoMuskies]

Next year without Naji and Paul would be rough, definitely a lot of underclassmen and we'd go through some growing pains. It'd be very hard to watch, but if you think about it, could be a blessing in disguise getting these guys acquainted to the college game by throwing them into the fire. Either way, I'm sure the staff will be going after some graduate transfers that could help fill some roles.

The '97 and '98 teams were a lot of fun to watch after the '96 team was quite painful to watch. Side note, I'm getting really old.

[Masterofreality]

I have a feeling that Naji and Scruggs are both going to be working their way towards the NBA in the G-League next year.

I think Paul will come back after evaluation. Naji, I fear is gone. Dude has proven so much this year and has little left to prove.

[Masterofreality]

Naji’s is better than Carter’s. Carter’s is better than Fremantle but that is skewed from early season rotations. Jones’ +/- is tops.

Any idea how it compares with Free in the starters role?

[Lloyd Braun]

Any idea how it compares with Free in the starters role?

I would have to break down the numbers individually per game which is more work than I think it’s worth.... I would imagine it’s pretty close, however.

One stat that I find interesting: Freemantle has played about the same minutes as a starter as a reserve this year. FT attempts as a starter: 14. As a reserve: 37.

[GIMMFD]

I think Paul will come back after evaluation. Naji, I fear is gone. Dude has proven so much this year and has little left to prove.

I'm along the same line of thinking, the only thing that worries me is Scruggs' age, he may take the evaluation and head to Europe where I think he could make a pretty penny. I'd love for him to come back though, I think Naji is gone no matter what though. There's really nothing much another year of college would do for him, you kind of know what you're going to get out of both.


I would have to break down the numbers individually per game which is more work than I think it’s worth.... I would imagine it’s pretty close, however.

One stat that I find interesting: Freemantle has played about the same minutes as a starter as a reserve this year. FT attempts as a starter: 14. As a reserve: 37.

I wonder if it has to do with mentality, knowing we have a pretty short bench, and that it needs a spark, as a reserve he may tend to be a little more aggressive, while as a starter he knows that the show runs through Paul, Naji, and Rique.

[Mrs. Garrett]

I would have to break down the numbers individually per game which is more work than I think it’s worth.... I would imagine it’s pretty close, however.

One stat that I find interesting: Freemantle has played about the same minutes as a starter as a reserve this year. FT attempts as a starter: 14. As a reserve: 37.

As a reserve Free was often filling in for Tyrique and under the basket. As a starter he's playing away more when coupled with Tryrique. He's just recently found his 3 point stroke.

[Lloyd Braun]

As a reserve Free was often filling in for Tyrique and under the basket. As a starter he's playing away more when coupled with Tryrique. He's just recently found his 3 point stroke.

As a reserve he was 3-6
As a starter he is 7-20

I think he is still searching for the stroke... he’s not a bad shooter but his post moves and footwork are so advanced for a freshman (ala D West) I would feed him in post more personally. Tough to do that with Tyrique in there but at least opponents would have to double someone.

[Mrs. Garrett]

As a reserve he was 3-6
As a starter he is 7-20

I think he is still searching for the stroke... he’s not a bad shooter but his post moves and footwork are so advanced for a freshman (ala D West) I would feed him in post more personally. Tough to do that with Tyrique in there but at least opponents would have to double someone.

If we were shooting 35% from 3 as a team, our record would be much better.

[stammina0721]

It is true that Steele has been involved in recruiting, but the head coach is going to make calls about who to prioritize and how time is spent.

Your point was that Steele lacked foresight not having enough PG's, but in his first 2 recruiting classes that were solely his he brings in KyKy who can at least play some minutes there and a true PG in his second class. The criticism that he lacks foresight on this just doesn't make sense to me.

And if there is anything not to criticize Steele on at this point it is recruiting.

Your point is fair I definitely am not dismissing it. It's just my opinion that the associate head coach and lead recruiter under Mack would be heavily involved in final player offers. Maybe he wanted to offer a PG and Mack said no. It's possible.

That is why it's my biggest complaint about him right now though. I just feel he could have helped construct the team better even though he technically didn't have the final say. Maybe Odom pans out and we bring in another PG the next year and then puts that criticism to bed. I hope he does cause having a team full of 3's and Tyrique is ugly to watch

[Final4]

As a reserve he was 3-6
As a starter he is 7-20

I think he is still searching for the stroke... he’s not a bad shooter but his post moves and footwork are so advanced for a freshman (ala D West) I would feed him in post more personally. Tough to do that with Tyrique in there but at least opponents would have to double someone.

I know I could look this up to confirm but I'm assuming you're saying he is 10-26 for the season. That's approaching 39%. I think is 3-pt shooting should be encouraged (and further developed) and we turn him into a nasty, NASTY stretch 4.

[xcellentx]

Your point is fair I definitely am not dismissing it. It's just my opinion that the associate head coach and lead recruiter under Mack would be heavily involved in final player offers. Maybe he wanted to offer a PG and Mack said no. It's possible.

That is why it's my biggest complaint about him right now though. I just feel he could have helped construct the team better even though he technically didn't have the final say. Maybe Odom pans out and we bring in another PG the next year and then puts that criticism to bed. I hope he does cause having a team full of 3's and Tyrique is ugly to watch

I have a feeling that we are just going to disagree on this this point.

I will point out that Scruggs, whatever you feel about him as a PG this year, was recruited as a Point Guard. So if you look back at it, we recruited Goodin and Scruggs as PG's 2 years in a row going into the 2018 class, and in the 2019 class Steele picked up KyKy who while not a true PG can play time there.

If you want to complain about team construction, having 3 guys who all basically do the same thing and don't shoot particularly well in Goodin, Scruggs, and Marshall is a much bigger issues than not having another true PG this year.

[bleedXblue]

I read a great article on Anthony Grant and UD today. What a fantastic hire he was at UD. I'm sure this will be a very popular perspective on this board.......

1. Coached under Billy Donovan for several years
2. Coached VCU and was very successful
3. Did ok at Alabama......but they grew restless
4. Spent two years in the pro's at OKC

The guy has a ton of experience and great perspective.

We have no one on our bench that even comes remotely close. I sure wish Travis would add a guy that can HELP him on the offensive side of the ball.

[xavierj]

I read a great article on Anthony Grant and UD today. What a fantastic hire he was at UD. I'm sure this will be a very popular perspective on this board.......

1. Coached under Billy Donovan for several years
2. Coached VCU and was very successful
3. Did ok at Alabama......but they grew restless
4. Spent two years in the pro's at OKC

The guy has a ton of experience and great perspective.

We have no one on our bench that even comes remotely close. I sure wish Travis would add a guy that can HELP him on the offensive side of the ball.

It’s called players. See how Grant does next year without a lottery pick. Travis is supposed to be an offensive guy but you actually need certain types of players to do that. He is playing this way now because about half way through last year he realized he had to, in order to win, with the guys he had. You will think he is an offensive guru in a couple of years. He was the one who designed the offense with Trevon and JP when they were scoring in bunches.

[xavierj]

I read a great article on Anthony Grant and UD today. What a fantastic hire he was at UD. I'm sure this will be a very popular perspective on this board.......

1. Coached under Billy Donovan for several years
2. Coached VCU and was very successful
3. Did ok at Alabama......but they grew restless
4. Spent two years in the pro's at OKC

The guy has a ton of experience and great perspective.

We have no one on our bench that even comes remotely close. I sure wish Travis would add a guy that can HELP him on the offensive side of the ball.

Grant was 14-17 two years ago and his offense ranked 215th in the country. Last year they were 21-12 and were 160th in offense. This year with the Toppin explosion, they are 14th in scoring. His last year at Alabama his team was 185th in offense. It’s not like his teams have always killed it.

[GoMuskies]

I wouldn't trade Travis Steele for two Anthony Grants. I'd take some Obi Toppins, though!

[bleedXblue]

It’s called players. See how Grant does next year without a lottery pick. Travis is supposed to be an offensive guy but you actually need certain types of players to do that. He is playing this way now because about half way through last year he realized he had to, in order to win, with the guys he had. You will think he is an offensive guru in a couple of years. He was the one who designed the offense with Trevon and JP when they were scoring in bunches.

You're giving him a massive pass. There was enough talent on this team to be preseason Top 25 and we were picked to finish 3rd in the Big East by most. Yes, the roster isn't ideal, but that's where a good head coach and staff make their hay. I just think he went with a staff that was very young and inexperienced. He could use some more experience IMHO.

[GoMuskies]

Anthony Grant has been a head coach for 12 years. If he wins an NCAA Tournament game this year, it will be his second such win...

[bleedXblue]

Grant was 14-17 two years ago and his offense ranked 215th in the country. Last year they were 21-12 and were 160th in offense. This year with the Toppin explosion, they are 14th in scoring. His last year at Alabama his team was 185th in offense. It’s not like his teams have always killed it.

Certainly like the trend though.....

[bleedXblue]

Anthony Grant has been a head coach for 12 years. If he wins an NCAA Tournament game this year, it will be his second such win...

Yeah, I knew this would come up. He still was a great hire for a school like UD who isn't going to attract a top tier proven coach.

[xavierj]

Yeah, I knew this would come up. He still was a great hire for a school like UD who isn't going to attract a top tier proven coach.

I think it’s a great hire if you want Dayton to be average. They hit gold with Toppin. I would expect Dayton to be back to being ho hum after this year. I have never been super impressed with Grant. He looks great with a lottery pick though.

[GoMuskies]

I will say this: even if Dayton is just a one-year wonder under Grant, if they manage to make it to the Final Four it's totally worth it even if Grant reverts to mediocre form for the next decade.

[bleedXblue]

I think it’s a great hire if you want Dayton to be average. They hit gold with Toppin. I would expect Dayton to be back to being ho hum after this year. I have never been super impressed with Grant. He looks great with a lottery pick though.

Well he did recruit the kid. I mean geesh, give the guy some credit for finding a diamond in the rough. We did the same thing with West and rode that pony for 4 years.

[scoscox]

Well he did recruit the kid. I mean geesh, give the guy some credit for finding a diamond in the rough. We did the same thing with West and rode that pony for 4 years.

we did go to the elite eight immediately after west. thad proved to be a pretty good coach

[chico]

Yeah, I knew this would come up. He still was a great hire for a school like UD who isn't going to attract a top tier proven coach.

I agree. Grant's a perfect guy for a school like UD. He's not a top flight coach but talented enough to be successful in a mid-major conference. With the support that program gets they'll be at the top of the A-10 most years.

And UD is more than Toppin this year. He gets all the press but they're a solid team.

[Lloyd Braun]

If we were shooting 35% from 3 as a team, our record would be much better.

But we aren’t and won’t. In fact the more they shoot the 3 the worse they are. % drops




I know I could look this up to confirm but I'm assuming you're saying he is 10-26 for the season. That's approaching 39%. I think is 3-pt shooting should be encouraged (and further developed) and we turn him into a nasty, NASTY stretch 4.

I agree... that’s developed in off season. As the season goes on his % is dropping. He should be in the corner more however for his 3s. I would like to see more post ups. Last game they started to feed him more.

[GIMMFD]

Anthony Grant has been a head coach for 12 years. If he wins an NCAA Tournament game this year, it will be his second such win...

Yeah someone on the WVU board said to replace Huggins with Grant, and I rather WVU just give the job to whoever the hell is the University of Charleston's men's basketball coach (DII program in WV, no idea if they're even good).. he is doing well this year, Toppin is obviously a lot of that, but as said gotta give him credit to recruit and develop him, but nothing about Grant to me screams brilliant.

[xavierj]

I agree. Grant's a perfect guy for a school like UD. He's not a top flight coach but talented enough to be successful in a mid-major conference. With the support that program gets they'll be at the top of the A-10 most years.

And UD is more than Toppin this year. He gets all the press but they're a solid team.

I agree but they would have lost about 8 or 9 games without him. Dayton will lose Toppin and two other high producing seniors. Their other best players are juniors. They have had very little production from any other freshman or sophomores and they don’t even have freshman that play. They won’t repeat their performance this year or be any where close to it next year.

[stammina0721]

I have a feeling that we are just going to disagree on this this point.

I will point out that Scruggs, whatever you feel about him as a PG this year, was recruited as a Point Guard. So if you look back at it, we recruited Goodin and Scruggs as PG's 2 years in a row going into the 2018 class, and in the 2019 class Steele picked up KyKy who while not a true PG can play time there.

If you want to complain about team construction, having 3 guys who all basically do the same thing and don't shoot particularly well in Goodin, Scruggs, and Marshall is a much bigger issues than not having another true PG this year.

I thought Scruggs was recruited as a 2 but hell I don't follow recruiting that closely so I definitely would not be the lead expert on that. You are right about having multiple guys who are the exact same player. I'm just looking at this through the lense of: If X had a real PG with Scruggs at the 2 Naji the 3 Freemantle and Jones at 4 and 5 then we are probably 2 wins better minimum.

But I guess no use talking about anything that can't be fixed or changed. Just need to hope that Steele fixes it in the very near future

[smileyy]

Quentin Bad-in has hurt team a lot. Where did he go?

[scoscox]

You're giving him a massive pass. There was enough talent on this team to be preseason Top 25 and we were picked to finish 3rd in the Big East by most. Yes, the roster isn't ideal, but that's where a good head coach and staff make their hay. I just think he went with a staff that was very young and inexperienced. He could use some more experience IMHO.

I can't even remember the last time we had an older assistant on a xavier staff. pete, skip, thad, sean, mack all had young staffs. i don't think that's a serious problem. you know who has old assistants? dave leitao and patrick ewing

[bleedXblue]

I agree but they would have lost about 8 or 9 games without him. Dayton will lose Toppin and two other high producing seniors. Their other best players are juniors. They have had very little production from any other freshman or sophomores and they don’t even have freshman that play. They won’t repeat their performance this year or be any where close to it next year.

Sort of like Xavier after Trey and JP and Sean graduated? Even with Mack that team last year would have struggled to make the tourney.

[bleedXblue]

I can't even remember the last time we had an older assistant on a xavier staff. pete, skip, thad, sean, mack all had young staffs. i don't think that's a serious problem. you know who has old assistants? dave leitao and patrick ewing

Yeah that's correct with Xavier staff's and most of them got off to slow starts. Just like Travis. You picked two programs in our conference but what about the VAST majority of top tier programs in D1 college ball?

[Smails]

Anthony Grant is reaching Ron Everhart Musketeer Madness status...

[xcellentx]

You're giving him a massive pass. There was enough talent on this team to be preseason Top 25 and we were picked to finish 3rd in the Big East by most. Yes, the roster isn't ideal, but that's where a good head coach and staff make their hay. I just think he went with a staff that was very young and inexperienced. He could use some more experience IMHO.

I don't think that the intent with the post is to give Travis a pass on the record, we probably should be a few wins better. The point is though that Goodin, Scruggs, and Naji are the main returning players and they are all too similar in what they do to be the high-powered offense that Steele wants to do. He was at least a big part (if not the main part) of constructing of the offense when we had Bluiett and JP and I think everyone would be fine with those offense numbers. You have seen a bit of it this year when KyKy is on and I think with more shooters he will shore up the offense.

[bleedXblue]

I don't think that the intent with the post is to give Travis a pass on the record, we probably should be a few wins better. The point is though that Goodin, Scruggs, and Naji are the main returning players and they are all too similar in what they do to be the high-powered offense that Steele wants to do. He was at least a big part (if not the main part) of constructing of the offense when we had Bluiett and JP and I think everyone would be fine with those offense numbers. You have seen a bit of it this year when KyKy is on and I think with more shooters he will shore up the offense.

Travis was the lead recruiter for Mack.

[xavierj]

Travis was the lead recruiter for Mack.

This is true but if you know Chris Mack he has about the biggest ego around. He takes who he wants in the end.

[xcellentx]

Travis was the lead recruiter for Mack.

I feel like I already had this conversation in this thread...

[AviatorX]

The lead recruiter discussion is weird. The bottom line is this roster is problematic because guys like Harden, Ridder and Bishop were complete busts. I'm willing to just write of the 2018 class considering the circumstances, but do note that X was right there with a ton of difference makers and seemingly lost every toss up (before Mack left).

Regardless of who you want to blame for the busts, if Steele's recruits are more Harden/Bishop than Tandy/Freemantle, he's not going to work out. That doesn't change whether you want to give him some leniency for the end of the Mack era of recruiting or not.

That said, there's really no competent argument to be made that Steele's recruiting is trending that way right now. He has X recruiting at its highest level ever. His first real class includes two guys who appear to be very very good (and don't forget, we have at least one posted who thinks Miles could be a 10 and 6 guy right now).

[Masterofreality]

Blew the Marquette home game now blows the home Butler game.
What should have been 10-8 Conference and 5th becomes 8-10 & 7th.
Missed opps all around with slow reaction strategy and adjustments.
I can’t remember a year where I’ve been more upset with Xavier Basketball and I lived through 3-23 and 5-21. This team has talent that has been totally misused and badly served by this staff.

[Masterofreality]

That said, there's really no competent argument to be made that Steele's recruiting is trending that way right now. He has X recruiting at its highest level ever. His first real class includes two guys who appear to be very very good (and don't forget, we have at least one posted who thinks Miles could be a 10 and 6 guy right now).

We have zero idea if this is true right now. Free appears to be prime.KyKy May but his defense is terrible and he’s not the automatic bucket everyone wants to
Believe he is. He may develop into it but he’s no Stanley Burrell right now. We have no clue if Miles and Ramsey can play and Bishop has already been thrown on the trash heap by the coaches and seemingly everyone on this board. Unlike Guys like Derrick Brown there are zero ( other than possibly Naji who people on here call dumb) NBA caliber players on this roster so to say Steele is recruiting at Xavier’s highest level ever is unproven.
To date, we don’t know what the hell we have other than a bunch of gold stars next to a player name. That sure worked with Bishop, huh?

[AviatorX]

We have zero idea if this is true right now. Free appears to be prime.KyKy May but his defense is terrible and he’s not the automatic bucket everyone wants to
Believe he is. He may develop into it but he’s no Stanley Burrell right now. We have no clue if Miles and Ramsey can play and Bishop has already been thrown on the trash heap by the coaches and seemingly everyone on this board. Unlike Guys like Derrick Brown there are zero ( other than possibly Naji who people on here call dumb) NBA caliber players on this roster so to say Steele is recruiting at Xavier’s highest level ever is unproven.
To date, we don’t know what the hell we have other than a bunch of gold stars next to a player name. That sure worked with Bishop, huh?

Not sure what Stanley Burrell and Derrick Brown have to do with this, but, yes, I don't disagree with you. The part of my post you cut off says if Steele's top 100 guys are more Harden/Bishop style, he's obviously not going to make it. Freemantle and Tandy are very obviously recruiting wins.

I still firmly believe there is no competent argument that Steele's recruiting isn't trending positively. You just can't make that argument (and I know you aren't trying).

[Xavier]

Hate to break it to you but X still isn’t a school that brings in sure fire NBA talent. Mack would’ve gotten them there, though he had his fair share of struggles.

[OTRMUSKIE]

I hate Butler so much. Got in a fight with two jack holes butler fans after. They were just sitting there yelling “Bye Bye” and flipping day fans off. Eventually I told them to please STFU and leave. Eventually the police had to come in and tell the two BUTLER assholes to leave before somebody knocks you out.

[AviatorX]

Hate to break it to you but X still isn’t a school that brings in sure fire NBA talent. Mack would’ve gotten them there, though he had his fair share of struggles.

Exactly. Expectations are a bit out of whack, which is totally understandable after the lightning in a bottle Mack had at the end of his reign (NCAA tournament aside). I mean has Xavier ever brought in a sure fire NBA talent from day one?

This season actually is almost exactly tracking Mack's first few BE seasons. I guess everyone has forgotten that though.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Hate to break it to you but X still isn’t a school that brings in sure fire NBA talent. Mack would’ve gotten them there, though he had his fair share of struggles.

F@CK Mack. He is the reason we lost to a Nevada as a 1 seed. His struggles will continue at Louisville too.

[scoscox]

Hate to break it to you but X still isn’t a school that brings in sure fire NBA talent. Mack would’ve gotten them there, though he had his fair share of struggles.

mack was one of the worst coaches we've had in the last 40 years at developing NBA talent. Pete Gillen put two guys in the lottery. mack got better recruits and had a few second round picks. edmond sumner is his biggest success so far

[Xavier]

I think his track record of getting top seeds, style of play, and his ego is something that eventually attracts that type of player. Not so much him developing it.

[scoscox]

I think his track record of getting top seeds, style of play, and his ego is something that eventually attracts that type of player. Not so much him developing it.

ah okay yea i misread that

[X Factor]

mack was one of the worst coaches we've had in the last 40 years at developing NBA talent. Pete Gillen put two guys in the lottery. mack got better recruits and had a few second round picks. edmond sumner is his biggest success so far

I'll never understand how Xavier has had guys like Tyrone Hill, Aaron Williams, Derek Strong, James Posey, David West when we were in shit conferences. All of those guys were bonafide NBA players that had long careers.

We won't make that last 2% Travis Steele talks so much about until we start getting legit NBA talent. Either top ranked recruits that are sure fire studs or developing guys that end up as NBA talents; not borderline NBA guys that end up in the G-league or in some obsure European league.

Just look at what Obi Toppin has done for Dayton this year.

[X Factor]

I'll never understand how Xavier has had guys like Tyrone Hill, Aaron Williams, Derek Strong, James Posey, David West when we were in shit conferences. All of those guys were bonafide NBA players that had long careers.

We won't make that last 2% Travis Steele talks so much about until we start getting legit NBA talent. Either top ranked recruits that are sure fire studs or developing guys that end up as NBA talents; not borderline NBA guys that end up in the G-league or in some obsure European league.

Just look at what Obi Toppin has done for Dayton this year.

After Steele's first 2 years, we might be back to about 80%.

[bjf123]

I hate Butler so much. Got in a fight with two jack holes butler fans after. They were just sitting there yelling “Bye Bye” and flipping day fans off. Eventually I told them to please STFU and leave. Eventually the police had to come in and tell the two BUTLER assholes to leave before somebody knocks you out.

Had two Butler fans sitting in front of me. Hell, they might have been Butler students. I think those seats belong to a company because it’s someone different every game. The one kid spent the whole game yelling “Let’s Go Butler” or “Let’s Go Dogs” at the top of his lungs. He also kept standing up, though he did ask if his standing bothered me and then spend his time standing in the aisle to not block my view.


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[xuwillie]

Was hoping I was wrong but always thought it was a lazy hire. What did steele actually do to get a top 20 Job? Oh well stuck now

[Masterofreality]

I'll never understand how Xavier has had guys like Tyrone Hill, Aaron Williams, Derek Strong, James Posey, David West when we were in shit conferences. All of those guys were bonafide NBA players that had long careers.

We won't make that last 2% Travis Steele talks so much about until we start getting legit NBA talent. Either top ranked recruits that are sure fire studs or developing guys that end up as NBA talents; not borderline NBA guys that end up in the G-league or in some obsure European league.

Just look at what Obi Toppin has done for Dayton this year.

So the statement that Xavier is recruiting at its highest level ever may be in error?

[AviatorX]

So the statement that Xavier is recruiting at its highest level ever may be in error?

I'm just assuming you're willfully missing the point. Come on man. Go ahead and show me back to back higher ranked recruiting classes and then we can talk.

[AviatorX]

Was hoping I was wrong but always thought it was a lazy hire. What did steele actually do to get a top 20 Job? Oh well stuck now


Xavier as a top 20 job is laugh out loud funny.

[xuwillie]

Hmm I thought it was. Maybe not now

[Masterofreality]

I'm just assuming you're willfully missing the point. Come on man. Go ahead and show me back to back higher ranked recruiting classes and then we can talk.

They didn’t have recruiting rankings, which mean iish, when guys like Ty Hill, Derek Strong, Aaron Williams Brian Grant, Michael Hawkins were playing.
Not even sure about David West & James Posey but maybe.
C’mon man. I’m missing no point. Keep being an apologist for an NIT coach who has underperformed. We’ll just have to see if these guys are legit. 2 out of five have played any legit time. But to say that these classes are the best ever (screw the subjective star ratings) is at best premature

[D-West & PO-Z]

Had two Butler fans sitting in front of me. Hell, they might have been Butler students. I think those seats belong to a company because it’s someone different every game. The one kid spent the whole game yelling “Let’s Go Butler” or “Let’s Go Dogs” at the top of his lungs. He also kept standing up, though he did ask if his standing bothered me and then spend his time standing in the aisle to not block my view.


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You must be in 105. I think I am two rows behind you. I saw that guy ask you that. Those guys were brutal.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Had two Butler fans sitting in front of me. Hell, they might have been Butler students. I think those seats belong to a company because it’s someone different every game. The one kid spent the whole game yelling “Let’s Go Butler” or “Let’s Go Dogs” at the top of his lungs. He also kept standing up, though he did ask if his standing bothered me and then spend his time standing in the aisle to not block my view.


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That’s him!!!! One guy had a beard and the other guy had a hat on. He was outside also yelling LETS GO DOGS!!! I had to refrain from punching him being 44 years old. I video taped the whole thing . I’ll put in on YouTube and you can tell me if that’s him

[UCGRAD4X]

just got done watching the game, recorded after an evening with the grandkids and gotta say I have rarely been as disappointed in a game performance. It goes without saying (don't you love hoe how people say that and say it anyway) Scruggs being out hurt us defensively switching off against baldwin and giving Q and Moore too many opportunities to shoot blanks from three (despite Q's one - which only serves to think he can actually shoot from behind the arc). I don't know what I was thinking that on senior night Q might actually have a decent game when we needed him the most. Definitely some questionable coaching decisions. I know there is always a question about fouling at the end, but with as hot as Baldwin was, this was the time to do it. No time out, no setting up the defense,,,lieI said, hugely disappointed, even disgusted.

Still have a chance to make up but gotta win two in the tourney.

Yuck.

[Muskie in dayton]

Xavier as a top 20 job is laugh out loud funny.
UD troll.

[UCGRAD4X]

Xavier as a top 20 job is laugh out loud funny.

Name me 19 jobs that were open that were a better draw.

[Masterofreality]

By the way, and yeah, I’m gonna ask the question.
What kind of practice drill are you running at this time of the year after 29 games and 90 practices where you have your players coming anywhere near running into each other? The last thing you want when guys are wearing down from the year is a collision injury in practice, but here we are.
Incredible.

[Muskie]

Had two Butler fans sitting in front of me. Hell, they might have been Butler students. I think those seats belong to a company because it’s someone different every game. The one kid spent the whole game yelling “Let’s Go Butler” or “Let’s Go Dogs” at the top of his lungs. He also kept standing up, though he did ask if his standing bothered me and then spend his time standing in the aisle to not block my view.


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You apparently sit right across the aisle from me. I’m in 103. He was also standing in the aisle when he wasn’t directly in front of you.


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[xavierj]

F@CK Mack. He is the reason we lost to a Nevada as a 1 seed. His struggles will continue at Louisville too.

When did Xavier lose to Nevada as a 1 seed? Wrong board.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Sorry same day but wrong team. Florida state I meant. Nevada best UC.

[D-West & PO-Z]

That’s him!!!! One guy had a beard and the other guy had a hat on. He was outside also yelling LETS GO DOGS!!! I had to refrain from punching him being 44 years old. I video taped the whole thing . I’ll put in on YouTube and you can tell me if that’s him

Yeah those guys were a couple rows in front of me too.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Thankfully the cops finally came up to those butler guys and said GTFO.

[AviatorX]

Name me 19 jobs that were open that were a better draw.

Come on. This is obviously not the discussion.

Xavier is a great job. It’s definitely not a top 20 job, nor does it pay like one. Not a good or bad thing, just the truth. There are a lot of jobs that recruit at a similar level, pay more, and definitely don’t have a fire the coach thread with 1000 posts two years in lol.

[GoMuskies]

The 1000 post thread is honestly an indication that Xavier is a good job. Any program where the fans weren't a bit disgruntled after these two seasons is a shitty job, I promise.

[AviatorX]

The 1000 post thread is honestly an indication that Xavier is a good job. Any program where the fans weren't a bit disgruntled after these two seasons is a shitty job, I promise.

It’s a fine line between fan support and expectations vs reality, and Xavier (message board) fans toe the line for sure, IMO. Again, from a perspective of a man taking the job, not overall program success etc.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Yeah I can’t believe how many post this thread has. When I made it I figured people would laugh it off. Travis is fine, this is his second year as a HC. Look at AG at VD who had coaching experience and sucked at VD for his first two years and most likely will suck again next year. Archie Miller has success at VD then went to Indiana and has struggled his first 4 years. Point being it takes time and I know it looks
Bleak right now but it’s going to be fine. This is the problem knew would happen by joining the best conference in basketball. We arnt going to dance every year. This isn’t the A-10 that is a one bid league. Take a deep breath and in 5 years we will be mad at Travis for leaving X. I promise you.

[GoMuskies]

It’s a fine line between fan support and expectations vs reality, and Xavier (message board) fans toe the line for sure, IMO. Again, from a perspective of a man taking the job, not overall program success etc.

Not really. Just look at the history. We win here. Nothing wrong with expecting that to continue. If you don't win at Xavier, you're probably not a good coach.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Well Steele is winning with what I would say is the lowest basketball IQ team I have ever seen in my 44 years on earth. Meanwhile Pat Kelsey is about to dance again. I think eventually that will end up being Xavier’s next coach. 160-93 in 8 years. 3 conf champs and 2 NCAA. Nothing incredible but he will be here after Steele leaves us for greener pastures after back to back NC in 2022/2023.

[AviatorX]

Not really. Just look at the history. We win here. Nothing wrong with expecting that to continue. If you don't win at Xavier, you're probably not a good coach.

Don’t disagree, that’s not really the conversation though. Expectations are high at Xavier, and IMO, amongst some portion of the fan base, out of whack with reality. Just my opinion, and obviously has no impact on how the athletic department is actually administered. It’s fine if you disagree.

[UCGRAD4X]

Come on. This is obviously not the discussion.

Xavier is a great job. It’s definitely not a top 20 job, nor does it pay like one. Not a good or bad thing, just the truth. There are a lot of jobs that recruit at a similar level, pay more, and definitely don’t have a fire the coach thread with 1000 posts two years in lol.


And a thread where a very small percentage actually think firing Travis is a good idea at this point. Much more a thread where we discuss his performance to date. Many here are just not satisfied with some aspects of play that reflect poorly on the coaching. My opinion - and I believe the opinion of many - is much of the blame goes to the players and even the previous administration. Most also recognize that a new coach is going to need some time to develop, get his own players, instill his own system, experience etc. When you consider he has no previous head coaching experience on which to draw evidence, it is totally fair to question on the basis of the only evidence we have.

Maybe the name of the thread is misleading, but for us to totally accept the product we are seeing on the court without looking for ways to get better, which more than reasonably includes a still-wet-behind-the-ears HC would would not correctly reflect the passion for excellence that this fanbase does and should expect.

We expect things to trend upward steadily. There seems to be so many setbacks and aspects that do not seem to have improved; again - not all on Travis but he is the captain of a ship that seems to have a lot of leaks.

Believe me, we all want things to trend the other way and quickly and decisively as possible. If it doesn't, we have every right, and, perhaps duty, to question the quality and of efficacy of the leadership.

[OTRMUSKIE]

NC can be interpreted as NIT or NCAA btw

[GIMMFD]

Well Steele is winning with what I would say is the lowest basketball IQ team I have ever seen in my 44 years on earth. Meanwhile Pat Kelsey is about to dance again. I think eventually that will end up being Xavier’s next coach. 160-93 in 8 years. 3 conf champs and 2 NCAA. Nothing incredible but he will be here after Steele leaves us for greener pastures after back to back NC in 2022/2023.

Haha if Steele wins a NC here he can leave and go anywhere and I'll be happy, but to be honest, I could see Steele sticking around for a long time. I'm not married, but there's a reason that the "happy wife, happy life," statement holds true. I wouldn't be upset with Pat Kelsey as a hire, as he has done some impressive things at Winthrop, but really I could see Steele carving out a pretty long career here. I also do think he's going to grow and become a good coach, we'll look back at this thread just like we did with the "Fire Mack" thread in a few years I believe.

[GoMuskies]

Pat Kelsey?!? Are people still talking about him for real? Weird.

[OTRMUSKIE]

We are just spoiled. We will be laughing at this in 2 years. We just arnt use to being in VD’s position two years in a row and especially having them switch positions with us this year. It stinks. But the universe will eventually soon back on its proper axle and we will be great again. Starting next year. But let’s just go ahead and win weds and then get ready to play Stanford in Dayton on weds.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Pat Kelsey?!? Are people still talking about him for real? Weird.

No just me. He is on tv right now in the big south championship. I just think he ends up being Xavier’s next coach when Steele leaves. Imo

[GoMuskies]

No just me. He is on tv right now in the big south championship. I just think he ends up being Xavier’s next coach when Steele leaves. Imo

I suppose it's possible that Christopher and our next president will have lost their damned minds.

[scoscox]

I'll never understand how Xavier has had guys like Tyrone Hill, Aaron Williams, Derek Strong, James Posey, David West when we were in shit conferences. All of those guys were bonafide NBA players that had long careers.

We won't make that last 2% Travis Steele talks so much about until we start getting legit NBA talent. Either top ranked recruits that are sure fire studs or developing guys that end up as NBA talents; not borderline NBA guys that end up in the G-league or in some obsure European league.

Just look at what Obi Toppin has done for Dayton this year.

Beyond just luck or good fortune, we had great coaching. Gillen, Prosser, Matta were great and their staffs were loaded with great assistants as well. Mark Schmidt has turned St. Bona's into a respectable program, Gaudio had Wake Forest at #1 at one point, Groce, for his struggles at Illinois, just won the conference at Akron, and guys like Sean Miller and Chris Mack were lurking on those staffs as well.

Another reason may be that guys were able to slip through the cracks a little more back then as far as recruiting goes. It's much easier to discover guys and scout guys from afar now then it was then. Grant and Hill were right in our back yard and we were basically the only ones to notice them so we got them.

One thing that's encouraging about Travis to me is the development of Tyrique (which, to be fair, is probably a lot to do with Jonas, but Travis gets credit for hiring him) into a very, very good big man despite his limitations. He's the best rebounder we've had since Hill and West. Reminds me of them in that way. If he had a little more natural offensive skill, he'd be an NBA prospect. Naji is also looking like he might get taken in the second round if he comes out, which I think is a credit to Steele as well.

[JEHARDI]

They didn’t have recruiting rankings, which mean iish, when guys like Ty Hill, Derek Strong, Aaron Williams Brian Grant, Michael Hawkins were playing.
Not even sure about David West & James Posey but maybe.
C’mon man. I’m missing no point. Keep being an apologist for an NIT coach who has underperformed. We’ll just have to see if these guys are legit. 2 out of five have played any legit time. But to say that these classes are the best ever (screw the subjective star ratings) is at best premature

Really, is your hatred now so deep that you have completely lost touch with reality and the fact that Hill, Strong, Williams and Grant were all under recruited, diamonds in the rough. West was the same to a lesser extent.

[xavierj]

Really, is your hatred now so deep that you have completely lost touch with reality and the fact that Hill, Strong, Williams and Grant were all under recruited, diamonds in the rough. West was the same to a lesser extent.

To be honest some of those guys probably would not have ended up at X because in today’s world they would have been like 2 star guys. Tyrone didn’t start playing basketball until his junior year and Grant didn’t play as a junior in high school and played at Georgetown Ohio.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I suppose it's possible that Christopher and our next president will have lost their damned minds.

Why is that? I must be missing something. You saying he isnt a good coach or is it about how he left? Or backing out on UMASS?

[GoMuskies]

Why is that? I must be missing something. You saying he isnt a good coach or is it about how he left? Or backing out on UMASS?

The UMass thing. The weird way he dropped out of the NKU search. Plus the fact that he hasn't done nearly enough at Winthrop to be a serious candidate for a program like Xavier. He's probably due a promotion (from low major to mid major), but he keeps finding weird ways not to take such a promotion.

[D-West & PO-Z]

The UMass thing. The weird way he dropped out of the NKU search. Plus the fact that he hasn't done nearly enough at Winthrop to be a serious candidate for a program like Xavier. He's probably due a promotion (from low major to mid major), but he keeps finding weird ways not to take such a promotion.

Yeah I get concerns there but the qualifications thing I would get if we hadn't hired an unproven assistant who had never been a head coach at any level. Don't get me wrong I like the Steele hire and understand that is where we had our success and maybe that is the only way I guess we hire an unproven guy but Kelsey has taken them to two tourneys now and had them in the top 3 of their conference every year since his first year.

I think Steele can still be the guy, two years isnt long enough to say he isnt so its a moot point but I would think if he isnt and Xavier is looking soon that Kelsey would definitely be a candidate. But yes in general a more proven HC at a higher level probably would be better.

[bjf123]

That’s him!!!! One guy had a beard and the other guy had a hat on. He was outside also yelling LETS GO DOGS!!! I had to refrain from punching him being 44 years old. I video taped the whole thing . I’ll put in on YouTube and you can tell me if that’s him

Sure sounds like them. The one with the hat was much more quiet and subdued.


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[bjf123]

You apparently sit right across the aisle from me. I’m in 103. He was also standing in the aisle when he wasn’t directly in front of you.


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Yep. I’m in 105 on the aisle. Good thing my wife wasn’t there. She would have had “words” with him.

Since you clearly now know who I am, but I have no idea who you are, say hi sometime next season.


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[chico]

mack was one of the worst coaches we've had in the last 40 years at developing NBA talent. Pete Gillen put two guys in the lottery. mack got better recruits and had a few second round picks. edmond sumner is his biggest success so far

I'd absolutely love to see Pete Gillen come back as an assistant, but I know that would never happen.

Nonetheless, Steele needs somebody on that staff who knows how to coach, like what Howard is doing at Michigan with Martelli.

[xu82]

Yep. I’m in 105 on the aisle. Good thing my wife wasn’t there. She would have had “words” with him.

Since you clearly now know who I am, but I have no idea who you are, say hi sometime next season.


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I LOVE aisle seats! You are a wise, wise man!

[bjf123]

I LOVE aisle seats! You are a wise, wise man!

At 6’5”, it’s really important to me!


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[noteggs]

Well Kyky and Zach made first team all freshman. Hats off to the two for working so hard and getting the job done! Also, guess this tells us Steele can recruit and develop a little.

Remember a poster saying it was great to get the two, but what about the other 3. Let’s just say we should be happy because this is the first time X has had two named to the first team since we joined the BE (I think). Well done all around and future should be bright.

[Xville]

Well Kyky and Zach made first team all freshman. Hats off to the two for working so hard and getting the job done! Also, guess this tells us Steele can recruit and develop a little.

Remember a poster saying it was great to get the two, but what about the other 3. Let’s just say we should be happy because this is the first time X has had two named to the first team since we joined the BE (I think). Well done all around and future should be bright.

Plus miles could make a real impact in a year or two, and who knows about Ramsey. Very well could be that at least 1 more becomes an impactful player.

[XU_Lou]

The NCAA has been blessed with great coaches over its long history: Wooden, Rupp, Krzyzewski, Smith, Knight…. Oh yea, and don’t forget Coach MOaR – he’s won so many games in the league that they can’t keep track of them anymore.

For some reason Coach MOaR has a real hard-on for Steele. Just curious, did Travis refuse to sign an autograph for you at some point? You’ve made some really stupid comments over the years, but the crap you’ve been saying over the last 24 hours takes the cake. At least twice now MOaR has called Steele a liar. Here’s the most recent:


Prime coaches don't need hindsight. They have forsight. They anticipate. Steele NEVER anticipates, and now he lies!
He actually just said on the postgame, when asked by Byron about what they were trying to do on the last play, Steele says, "Well, we were trying to get the ball out of his hands". REALLY??? You let him take the ball UNCONTESTED 68 feet and step into a shot behind a screen.
Most ridiculous and disingenuous answer I've ever heard. Nice job, Coach NIT.

But wait, here’s the actual play from last night: https://twitter.com/marchmadness/status/1236502083337158656

Seems Travis was a little closer to the truth than MOaR.

“Why was Baldwin allowed to saunter up the court for 68 feet unguarded in 5 seconds? Forget the screen. Why wasn’t Naji in the damn backcourt or at midcourt?” umm, maybe because he would’ve blown by him….

Finally, your whining about X not practicing this or that is just plain silly.

For MOaR, and the rest of you guys whining about how there has been no improvement with this team under Steele, I have to ask, who in the hell have you been watching? Do you realize we played the 5th toughest schedule in the country this year?! Here are a few stats from Warren Nolan comparing this year to last year:

NET ranking: 43 / 67

RPI: 40 / 74

SOS: 5 / 47

NET Quad 2 thru 4 record: 16–1 / 15-6

On Kenpom, our adjusted efficiency margin (offense minus defense) improved to 14.41, up from 10.6 LY.

I also wanted to point out another stat from: https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/schools/xavier/ Take a look at the SRS (Simple Rating System), which takes into account point differential and SOS (the higher the better):

• Note that LY’s team recorded a 9.61. That number improved to 12.91 TY.
• Sean Miller’s numbers during his first 2 years: 6.96 and 10.11.
• Mack did better his first 2 years, but fell to 9.59 and 7.7 in years 3 and 4.

Here are a few other things to chew on:

• Naji Marshall is a finalist for the Julius Erving Award. He was just named BE 1st team.
• Ty was BE 2nd team
• Zach and KyKy made the all BE frosh team.
• Carter has made obvious improvements in his overall game throughout the season. He will be an important component to this team next year.
• I know a lot of people have criticized Q over the last two years. Yes, he did regress, I’ll admit that. However, I didn’t realize until last night that he has a baby girl. Perhaps this explains things?? Perhaps he’s adjusted his priorities?? I don’t know, but worth pointing out…

Overall, it seems pretty clear that Steele knew he had a team the lacked offensive power, or even that they are prone to poor decision making. Therefore, he made the decision to emphasize team defense, at the cost, obviously, of sacrificing individual offensive stats. I believe he saw this as a way to get the most out of this team. I believe he made the right decision, as the stats have proved him right for the most part. According to the latest Kenpom stats, our adjusted defensive efficiency rating is 91.9, which ranks 17th in the nation right now. LY, we ended up with a rating of 100.5, which ranked 102.

I’ve been following X since 1986 – trust me, everything’s going to be fine! The future is very bright! We got recruits coming in next year that have won, or are competing for their state championships. Between the three of them they will bring much needed leadership and offensive power. Some of you need to come down off the freaking ledge and have some perspective of everything that has transpired over the last 3 years.

[Xavier]

I agree with some of those points- the schedule (and Big East) is definitely more difficult this season. Coach did improve this defense like crazy this year- it is statistically one of the best defensive teams X has ever had. Impressive and should be noted.

The offense just isn't there. And you make the point "One First team all BE, one second team all BE and two all big east freshman" and Carter has shown what he is capable of the past couple games....so the talent is there for the offense to be better.

Ultimately, I think coach stresses D (which we are very good at) mainly because the offensive talent isn't there. With these guys its the only way we can win games- strong D/rebounding. If these guys could make FT's at a decent clip they'd have a couple more wins.

[bleedXblue]

The offense and whatever Steele and his coaching staff are running is not anywhere remotely close to where it needs to be. He needs help and I would be very, very surprised if Christopher doesn't strongly encourage Steele to address this in the off season. The close games we've won and lost this year have been brutal. The details and doing to the little things are so important. How we let Baldwin stroll up the court is mind blowing. No ball pressure? Seriously? Steele had 30-60 seconds to get his team ready while Naji was shooting his FT. He did not get it done. That's on him.

[Muskie]

Yep. I’m in 105 on the aisle. Good thing my wife wasn’t there. She would have had “words” with him.

Since you clearly now know who I am, but I have no idea who you are, say hi sometime next season.


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I'm in Row Q on the Aisle in 103! That section is full of XH posters. We're practically neighbors.

[SM#24]

They practiced that exact scenario on Friday. The players didn't do what they were supposed to do. Naji was supposed to go over the top and Tyrique was supposed to hedge creating a trap on Baldwin. Naji went under and Tyrique retreated.
I think applying full court pressure would have been risky for two reasons, a blow by from Baldwin or a foul. I personally think playing straight up half court defense to force a tough shot was the way to go. Baldwin crossed half court with 4.5 seconds left; that's not a lot time.

[D-West & PO-Z]

The offense and whatever Steele and his coaching staff are running is not anywhere remotely close to where it needs to be. He needs help and I would be very, very surprised if Christopher doesn't strongly encourage Steele to address this in the off season. The close games we've won and lost this year have been brutal. The details and doing to the little things are so important. How we let Baldwin stroll up the court is mind blowing. No ball pressure? Seriously? Steele had 30-60 seconds to get his team ready while Naji was shooting his FT. He did not get it done. That's on him.

Anyone know how common it is in college basketball for head coaches to fire an assistant (for basketball not off court reasons)? Seems like Steele could use a more veteran/seasoned coach on the bench with him. You can only have 3 though right? Who do you let go of, how do you pick? And man it seems like you would really be damaging that guys career to an extent and make him look to be a scapegoat or someone who wasnt pulling their weight.

[Muskie]

Anyone know how common it is in college basketball for head coaches to fire an assistant (for basketball not off court reasons)? Seems like Steele could use a more veteran/seasoned coach on the bench with him. You can only have 3 though right? Who do you let go of, how do you pick? And man it seems like you would really be damaging that guys career to an extent and make him look to be a scapegoat or someone who wasnt pulling their weight.

There's ways around the coaching staff limits. You could bring on an Advisor (this person has recruiting limits and I don't believe can actually instruct in practice). It's all a matter of how much $$$ is available.

[Masterofreality]

The offense and whatever Steele and his coaching staff are running is not anywhere remotely close to where it needs to be. He needs help and I would be very, very surprised if Christopher doesn't strongly encourage Steele to address this in the off season. The close games we've won and lost this year have been brutal. The details and doing to the little things are so important. How we let Baldwin stroll up the court is mind blowing. No ball pressure? Seriously? Steele had 30-60 seconds to get his team ready while Naji was shooting his FT. He did not get it done. That's on him.

Thank you Bleed. I don’t think that Bleed has been a big trasher of Steele all year, but this is spot on in all points.
As opposed to XU_Lou’s post above, I was closer to the truth. Baldwin was unimpeded, as was the inbounds pass. Baldwin came straight up the court in 5 seconds and had (aided by a moving screen that blocked Naji) a wide ass open 3. Terrible coaching and terrible answer throwing your best player, who had almost single-handedly won the game, under the bus.
Two days later and I’m still so pissed I can’t see.
But I’m going to New York. Oh well.....

[SM#24]

Isn't Matt Graves that veteran assistant coach we're looking for or does he have to be over 60 ?

[nuts4xu]

Naji has to maintain position and not get screened. He had the guy on his back, and shuffled behind the offensive screen. Jones was supposed to hedge, but took himself out of the play. I have read they practiced defending this play before the game, and I really hope this isn't what Steele had them practice. Coach had to make sure guys knew what to do, and the 3 and 4 year players need to know what to do. I think the plan to not give at least some token pressure coming up the floor was very flawed.

X would have been better off fouling Baldwin, rather than allow him to drive up the floor and shoot with plenty of breathing room. I don't believe the excuse that Naji would get blown by. Naji is our best defender, and we had 4 other guys behind him that could have stopped the dribble.

Coach called a flawed defense for the Baldwin 3, and our guys failed to do their jobs. I have seen far too many players doing their own thing, to place blame all on the coaches. And there are too many head scratching coaching decisions to completely blame the players.

This has been a very UN-Xavier like season, and my guess is the next 2 weeks will play out the same way. In years past, we found some Xavier magic and used the conference tourney to springboard us into the tournament. I didn't see many of the past runs coming, but team #98 gives me even less reason to think we see any Xavier magic this March.

[flatspat]

Isn't Matt Graves that veteran assistant coach we're looking for or does he have to be over 60 ?

How about something like what Juwan Howard did at Michigan hiring Phil Martelli

[nuts4xu]

Why is that? I must be missing something. You saying he isnt a good coach or is it about how he left? Or backing out on UMASS?

All of it. Pat Kelsey is a good man, from a good family...he is a Xavier guy and part of the program's history. But I don't want him anywhere near the Xavier program right now. I am not sold on his coaching abilities and his 180 on UMass was mind boggling. I don't trust him to lead Xavier, and I would be very wary of interviewing him for other jobs. Hard pass on Kelsey.

Travis will get things turned around, hopefully soon. I think the notion he needs to hire an experienced assistant is complete nonsense. If he can't get the job done with the group of young, sought after, assistant coaches he has...then he shouldn't be coaching.

[SM#24]

Butler had 8.9 seconds left. That's a fair amount of time. Baldwin used 4.4 of that just to get to half court. Here's what I wouldn't have wanted my players to do, foul (unless it was a layup); we were only up two. Token pressure would not have denied Baldwin the ball, would have perhaps maybe chewed up a full second at the most; token pressure is just that, token, not real. Full or moderate pressure could very well turn it into a transition situation. I do believe Baldwin is more than capable of blowing by Naji with 1/2 the court to work with. Then you could get into an odd man situation and now they are attacking the basket...a layup, a foul or both.

We're the 17th best defensive team in the nation primarily predicated on our half court defense. To me the plan was sound, go over the screen, which Nze made easy by backing up, and hedging to force a trap on Baldwin. It was not executed. Whose fault is that, two veteran players for not remembering or the staff for not practicing it enough, or both ?

Also, subbing in, for who ? On the court we had Naji, Jones, Carter, Moore and Goodin; I'm pretty sure that's who we wanted on the court. Our options were our two worst defensive players (Tandy & Freemantle) or James, who very recently fouled a 3 point shooter with 0.2 left on the clock at the end of a half.

[nuts4xu]

How about something like what Juwan Howard did at Michigan hiring Phil Martelli

If Steele believes he needs a Phil Martelli type on the bench, I would rather just hire Phil Martelli. And I don't want a Phil Martelli, Pete Gillen, 70 year old man (no disrespect to his age) on the staff.

[SM#24]

How about something like what Juwan Howard did at Michigan hiring Phil Martelli

Someone over 60 then is the answer ?
Matt Graves was Assoc Head Coach to Brad Stevens, head coach at South Alabama for five years. That's fair amount of experience.