Silver Lining in this Mess

[bleedXblue]

I see two very positive things that could play out for us in the midst of the current debacle this team has created.

1. Steele gets the opportunity to make it very clear who the leader of this program is and how we are going to get ourselves back to playing respectable basketball again. If it means benching, escorting out of the program....whatever. Now is the time to make this HIS program.

2. How he handles this and how this team plays the next two months will be a very clear indicator of his capabilities. Great learning lesson for him. Mack and Miller went through similar difficult situations. We will see if Steele has the mettle to be a high level D1 coach.

[Xavier]

Honestly, how he handled last year and how the team bought in and finished the season was what I thought at the time- a huge indicator that he was the right guy.

Bringing in a good recruiting class to add to that team that turned things around with a full offseason to build on that momentum and now we look worse is pretty concerning.

[UCGRAD4X]

I see two very positive things that could play out for us in the midst of the current debacle this team has created.

1. Steele gets the opportunity to make it very clear who the leader of this program is and how we are going to get ourselves back to playing respectable basketball again. If it means benching, escorting out of the program....whatever. Now is the time to make this HIS program.

2. How he handles this and how this team plays the next two months will be a very clear indicator of his capabilities. Great learning lesson for him. Mack and Miller went through similar difficult situations. We will see if Steele has the mettle to be a high level D1 coach.

I've been saying this for the last few games! It's insanity by definition. They keep doing the same thing that gets them in trouble and seem to be doubling down on that crap.

He's got to make a statement and that begins with PT. F**K this measuring their playing by their practice. Normally I agree with the if you play hard and well in practice you are more likely to do so in-game and you deserve to see the court.

Whatever the thinking is here IT'S NOT WORKING!!!!

Time for a shake-up.

Start KyKy, Freemantle and Agent 4 together, James, even Schrand if that serves the message.

Same-old, same-old is not working.

[Masterofreality]

Even tho he was productive thru his career, Dedrick Finn was escorted out of the program in his senior year.

That was the defining moment when Sean Miller took control of his program from Matta. That ended in a conference tournament championship and an NCAA berth.

[xukeith]

I remember pondering ax’s decisions to enter new Big East while in the A10. I thought maybe UC playing in a much inferior league, would appear more often to NCAA tourney because recruiting in AAC and getting superior talent trumps AAC lesser programs. Maybe X would struggle with well advanced teams in a much more talented league. If X has a great team in this new BE, the odds would favor seeding of 1-4 as opposed to having superior teams in A10 and getting a “easier” 6-10 seed.
Choice: get to NCAA every year as an average 7 seed or get invite to NCAA as a 2-6 seed every 3rd year ?
I never thought the Big East would be so far advanced than other leagues .

[Blue Blooded-05]

Even tho he was productive thru his career, Dedrick Finn was escorted out of the program in his senior year.

I said that in the game thread last night. Every new coach we’ve had booted a starter early in the coach’s tenure. Matta booted Dave Young. Miller booted Finn. Mack didn’t technically boot Lyons, but made it clear who was in charge and where the door is located if he didn’t like it.

Addition by subtraction is a control taking tactic... “If coach will kick off _____, then what would happen with me if I don’t fall in line?” The biggest difference is Steele doesn’t appear to be alpha enough and the obvious candidate for booting (cough Q cough) doesn’t appear to be a sh!thead like those mentioned above. If Steele sets a precedent that sucking leads to getting kicked off, then you’ll have a team full of guys playing scared.

[xubrew]

I remember pondering ax’s decisions to enter new Big East while in the A10. I thought maybe UC playing in a much inferior league, would appear more often to NCAA tourney because recruiting in AAC and getting superior talent trumps AAC lesser programs. Maybe X would struggle with well advanced teams in a much more talented league. If X has a great team in this new BE, the odds would favor seeding of 1-4 as opposed to having superior teams in A10 and getting a “easier” 6-10 seed.
Choice: get to NCAA every year as an average 7 seed or get invite to NCAA as a 2-6 seed every 3rd year ?
I never thought the Big East would be so far advanced than other leagues .

The problem isn't the Big East. At least not this year.

Xavier had to sweat out Missouri, and Missouri State, and UConn. They lost to Florida who right now isn't looking like a tournament team, and Wake who isn't looking like a CBI team. With the exception of maybe Florida (if they ever get it together), none of those teams probably even finish in the top four of the Atlantic Ten right now. When you barely win three games against teams that wouldn't finish in the top four of the A10, you're assuming a lot by thinking we'd be a tournament team if we were in the A10.

[AviatorX]

I said that in the game thread last night. Every new coach we’ve had booted a starter early in the coach’s tenure. Matta booted Dave Young. Miller booted Finn. Mack didn’t technically boot Lyons, but made it clear who was in charge and where the door is located if he didn’t like it.

Addition by subtraction is a control taking tactic... “If coach will kick off _____, then what would happen with me if I don’t fall in line?” The biggest difference is Steele doesn’t appear to be alpha enough and the obvious candidate for booting (cough Q cough) doesn’t appear to be a sh!thead like those mentioned above. If Steele sets a precedent that sucking leads to getting kicked off, then you’ll have a team full of guys playing scared.

Exactly. There is literally no reason to think Q can or should be removed from the team. Allusions to that are insane.

[X Factor]

Exactly. There is literally no reason to think Q can or should be removed from the team. Allusions to that are insane.

He shouldn't be sent packing, but you think Nick Saban has any reservations about benching a senior? He benched Jalen Hurts who won a National Chamionship!

[AviatorX]

He shouldn't be sent packing, but you think Nick Saban has any reservations about benching a senior? He benched Jalen Hurts who won a National Chamionship!

Would be a great comparison if Xavier had a top 5 NBA pick just sitting on their bench not playing at all. I'm betting Steele would have benched Goodin for Anthony Edwards.

[noteggs]

Trying to get this thread back on a positive as opposed to same discussion and observations I’ve read over the last several weeks.

Freemantle was 2-2 from 3 while keeping the team from being under 20% for the game. Also was 3-4 from the floor, scoring 10 points, and 4 boards in 16 minutes. Love the energy and effort he gives us when he’s on the court.

[IM4X]

Trying to get this thread back on a positive as opposed to same discussion and observations I’ve read over the last several weeks.

Freemantle was 2-2 from 3 while keeping the team from being under 20% for the game. Also was 3-4 from the floor, scoring 10 points, and 4 boards in 16 minutes. Love the energy and effort he gives us when he’s on the court.

So what I hear you saying is that Freemantle ought to be shooting more and more 3s (along with Scruggs) while playing together on the court with Jones.

Cause if that’s what your saying, I’ve gotta agree.

[KFX]

Each day that goes by means one less day with Steele at the helm.

That’s my positive take.

[SemajParlor]

Does anyone think this impacts Naji or Paul coming back for a 4th year?

[AviatorX]

Does anyone think this impacts Naji or Paul coming back for a 4th year?

Not an informed opinion at all, but I think it's purely a business decision for both (i.e. results of this season are nearly irrelevant).

I think you can make a case that Scruggs getting to play PG full time next season could help build his stock. Don't think there's a similar case for Naji to showcase a new part of his game like that.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I remember pondering ax’s decisions to enter new Big East while in the A10. I thought maybe UC playing in a much inferior league, would appear more often to NCAA tourney because recruiting in AAC and getting superior talent trumps AAC lesser programs. Maybe X would struggle with well advanced teams in a much more talented league. If X has a great team in this new BE, the odds would favor seeding of 1-4 as opposed to having superior teams in A10 and getting a “easier” 6-10 seed.
Choice: get to NCAA every year as an average 7 seed or get invite to NCAA as a 2-6 seed every 3rd year ?
I never thought the Big East would be so far advanced than other leagues .

As soon as we start debating if it would have been better to stay in A10 is when we know the board is in full meltdown mode.

[KFX]

As soon as we start debating if it would have been better to stay in A10 is when we know the board is in full meltdown mode.

100%.

[AviatorX]

As soon as we start debating if it would have been better to stay in A10 is when we know the board is in full meltdown mode.

This team would probably be a less successful version of the Tu Holloway group that got slaughtered by Marquette in the first round.

[SM#24]

Not an informed opinion at all, but I think it's purely a business decision for both (i.e. results of this season are nearly irrelevant).

I think you can make a case that Scruggs getting to play PG full time next season could help build his stock. Don't think there's a similar case for Naji to showcase a new part of his game like that.
I'm under the impression that Odom is a Day 1 starter.

[AviatorX]

I'm under the impression that Odom is a Day 1 starter.

He hasn't even set foot on campus or practiced once yet.

You're gonna roll with him over a senior Paul Scruggs? Then I would start to wonder if Steele was trying to get fired.

[SM#24]

At PG, to run the offense, distribute, etc., yes, if he's what I'm reading he is. Personally, I'm very much in favor of facilitating PGs vs. scoring PGs.
Of course right now, I'm favor of scoring anything at the moment.

[chico]

As soon as we start debating if it would have been better to stay in A10 is when we know the board is in full meltdown mode.

I'd rep you if the man wasn't keeping me down.

This season may end up being a dumpster fire but I'd take it over being in that conference all day, every day. That's just one of the most nonsensical things I've heard on this board, and there have been a lot of nonsensical things said on this board.

[AviatorX]

At PG, to run the offense, distribute, etc., yes, if he's what I'm reading he is. Personally, I'm very much in favor of facilitating PGs vs. scoring PGs.
Of course right now, I'm favor of scoring anything at the moment.

I think Dwon could be good off the ball in an attacking role, but who knows. I'm just guessing that that's part of the thought process for Scruggs.

Otherwise, as seems to be tradition at Xavier, you've got two old for their class tweeners who probably will never play in the NBA, so all bets are off with what factors into their decision.

[GoMuskies]

As soon as we start debating if it would have been better to stay in A10 is when we know the board is in full meltdown mode.

It's just him. Ignore it. It's worse than MHettel's infamous suggestion that we go independent.

[XUGRAD80]

Silver lining?

Some questions asked to some famous coaches in the past, and their answers....

Reporter....”Coach, what’s the best thing about this team?”
Coach.......” The best thing is that I only have to watch them a few more times this season.”

Reporter......”Coach, talk to us about your team’s execution.”
Coach.........”I’m in favor of it.”

That’s Entertainment!

Look, sports is like desert. We all want it, but we can live without it, and we can’t live with just it and nothing more. It’s tastes good, but too much of it can actually make you sick. I know that we all look forward to the season with great anticipation and expectations. We look forward to watching the team play well and have great success. When that doesn’t happen, it’s very disappointing. Very. But that’s no reason to let it effect other parts of ones life or to turn on individuals who aren’t meeting those expectations. My advice is to lower your expectations for the remainder of the season. If there is one thing I have learned from being a Reds and Bengals fan, it’s that them losing doesn’t ruin my life, and them winning didn’t make my life great. I remain optimistic that the Xavier program has a bright future and that this is only a momentary bump in the road. No matter how painful it is right now, and no matter how deep the hole seems to be, Xavier will overcome and will eventually thrive. I truly believe that.

[94GRAD]

Silver lining?

Some questions asked to some famous coaches in the past, and their answers....

Reporter....”Coach, what’s the best thing about this team?”
Coach.......” The best thing is that I only have to watch them a few more times this season.”

Reporter......”Coach, talk to us about your team’s execution.”
Coach.........”I’m in favor of it.”

That’s Entertainment!

Look, sports is like desert. We all want it, but we can live without it, and we can’t live with just it and nothing more. It’s tastes good, but too much of it can actually make you sick. I know that we all look forward to the season with great anticipation and expectations. We look forward to watching the team play well and have great success. When that doesn’t happen, it’s very disappointing. Very. But that’s no reason to let it effect other parts of ones life or to turn on individuals who aren’t meeting those expectations. My advice is to lower your expectations for the remainder of the season. If there is one thing I have learned from being a Reds and Bengals fan, it’s that them losing doesn’t ruin my life, and them winning didn’t make my life great. I remain optimistic that the Xavier program has a bright future and that this is only a momentary bump in the road. No matter how painful it is right now, and no matter how deep the hole seems to be, Xavier will overcome and will eventually thrive. I truly believe that.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers HC John McKay!

[bjf123]

Tampa Bay Buccaneers HC John McKay!

One of the all time greatest quotes in sports.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[noteggs]

So what I hear you saying is that Freemantle ought to be shooting more and more 3s (along with Scruggs) while playing together on the court with Jones.

Cause if that’s what your saying, I’ve gotta agree.

More shots yes. 3’s? 1-2 is fine if open and disciplined. Not sure what the starting lineup would look like with Zach, but he brings some intangibles I’m not seeing with current team. So yes, starting Zach might be a good thing.

[xavierj]

The problem isn't the Big East. At least not this year.

Xavier had to sweat out Missouri, and Missouri State, and UConn. They lost to Florida who right now isn't looking like a tournament team, and Wake who isn't looking like a CBI team. With the exception of maybe Florida (if they ever get it together), none of those teams probably even finish in the top four of the Atlantic Ten right now. When you barely win three games against teams that wouldn't finish in the top four of the A10, you're assuming a lot by thinking we'd be a tournament team if we were in the A10.

Missouri won at Temple by 10, beat Illinois on a neutral court and beat Florida, Wake won at a pretty good Pitt team that would be top 2 in the A-10 and Florida would be up there as well. To say those three wouldn’t be in the top 4 of the A10 is kind over the top thinking. The Bonni's lost to Siena, Ohio and Vermont, Duquesne lost to UAB and Marshall and hasn’t beat anyone. Really other than Dayton the conference has played shit schedules and really has beat no one of significance. Dayton is the only team in the A-10 that would have a .500 or better record in the Big East.

[Xville]

Missouri won at Temple by 10, beat Illinois on a neutral court and beat Florida, Wake won at a pretty good Pitt team that would be top 2 in the A-10 and Florida would be up there as well. To say those three wouldn’t be in the top 4 of the A10 is kind over the top thinking. The Bonni's lost to Siena, Ohio and Vermont, Duquesne lost to UAB and Marshall and hasn’t beat anyone. Really other than Dayton the conference has played shit schedules and really has beat no one of significance. Dayton is the only team in the A-10 that would have a .500 or better record in the Big East.

I'm a missouri fan but they freaking suck, they just lost by 30 to miss state who is also garbage, and they have lost to charleston southern, wake is effing terrible.

Let's not be like uc fans used to be when we were in the a10.

Just a quick glance Rhode island beat providence and alabama, Richmond beat wisconsin, vcu beat lsu.

Let's stop knocking a league that xavier would be struggling in this year.

Btw we arent comparing the a10 to the be straight up, the be is really good, but Xavier is effing terrible right now no matter what league they're in this year. I'd hate to think what dayton would do to xavier this year..not kidding when I think they'd beat x by thirty if they played tonight

[GoMuskies]

According to Jeff Sagarin, Missouri would be the 5th best team in the A-10. Wake would be #8. That "pretty good" Pitt team would also slot in as the #5 team in the A-10.

Jeff still has Xavier #2 in the A-10, but only by a hair over VCU. A-10 is definitely staring down Juan Bid this year, though. Imagine how depressing it would be to come in second in the conference and not make the NCAA Tournament!

[xudash]

Silver lining?

Some questions asked to some famous coaches in the past, and their answers....

Reporter....”Coach, what’s the best thing about this team?”
Coach.......” The best thing is that I only have to watch them a few more times this season.”

Reporter......”Coach, talk to us about your team’s execution.”
Coach.........”I’m in favor of it.”

That’s Entertainment!

Look, sports is like desert. We all want it, but we can live without it, and we can’t live with just it and nothing more. It’s tastes good, but too much of it can actually make you sick. I know that we all look forward to the season with great anticipation and expectations. We look forward to watching the team play well and have great success. When that doesn’t happen, it’s very disappointing. Very. But that’s no reason to let it effect other parts of ones life or to turn on individuals who aren’t meeting those expectations. My advice is to lower your expectations for the remainder of the season. If there is one thing I have learned from being a Reds and Bengals fan, it’s that them losing doesn’t ruin my life, and them winning didn’t make my life great. I remain optimistic that the Xavier program has a bright future and that this is only a momentary bump in the road. No matter how painful it is right now, and no matter how deep the hole seems to be, Xavier will overcome and will eventually thrive. I truly believe that.

Great post.

[Xville]

According to Jeff Sagarin, Missouri would be the 5th best team in the A-10. Wake would be #8. That "pretty good" Pitt team would also slot in as the #5 team in the A-10.

Jeff still has Xavier #2 in the A-10, but only by a hair over VCU. A-10 is definitely staring down Juan Bid this year, though. Imagine how depressing it would be to come in second in the conference and not make the NCAA Tournament!

This is where formulas and algorithms are stupid...xavier lost to the 8th best team in the a10, got lucky to beat the 5th best, but yet would finish 2nd in his stupid formula.

[XUGRAD80]

This is where formulas and algorithms are stupid...xavier lost to the 8th best team in the a10, got lucky to beat the 5th best, but yet would finish 2nd in his stupid formula.

Don’t you mean ACC and not a10? Xavier hasn’t played any a10 teams that I’m aware of. :embarassed:

[Xville]

Don’t you mean ACC and not a10? Xavier hasn’t played any a10 teams that I’m aware of. :embarassed:

I was replying to go muskies post in which sagarian says wake would be 8th in the a10 and missouri 5th. Xavier is lucky to be 1-1 against those teams yet would be 2nd in the a10.

[GoMuskies]

This is where formulas and algorithms are stupid...xavier lost to the 8th best team in the a10, got lucky to beat the 5th best, but yet would finish 2nd in his stupid formula.

I'd love to see you come up with a formula that would accurately predict 100% of games. LOL I mean, Evansville beat UK in Rupp, so surely Kentucky shouldn't be ahead of Evansville, right?

Sagarin is the best in the business.

[xcellentx]

This is where formulas and algorithms are stupid...xavier lost to the 8th best team in the a10, got lucky to beat the 5th best, but yet would finish 2nd in his stupid formula.

It's because formulas and algorithms are based and your full body of work not just 1-2 games. UK lost to the last place team in the MVC but would finish first in the MVC in his formula.

EDIT: and GoMuskies and I had the same idea.

[GoMuskies]

Also, teams are pretty bunched up at that point. Sagarin calculates the difference between Mizzou and Xavier as approximately 2.25 points. On the other hand, Dayton is 7.5 points better than Xavier.

[GoMuskies]

KenPom would rank us third in the A-10 and Mizzou fourth. Wake would be 9th.

[Xville]

I'd love to see you come up with a formula that would accurately predict 100% of games. LOL I mean, Evansville beat UK in Rupp, so surely Kentucky shouldn't be ahead of Evansville, right?

Sagarin is the best in the business.

That's great but if you actually believe xavier would finish 2nd in the a10 based on what we have seen so far I have some great oceanfront property in louisville to sell ya

[xavierj]

That's great but if you actually believe xavier would finish 2nd in the a10 based on what we have seen so far I have some great oceanfront property in louisville to sell ya

They would. Who in the A10 is any good other than Dayton, and maybe VCU, and then look at who they beat and who they lost to. Obviously the A10 has changed scheduling philosophies. It use to be play a tough out of conference, now it’s play the worst teams you can and pad wins. Other than Dayton’s wins, and VCU beating LSU, no one has beat a team in that conference, unless I missed something, that will probably make the NCAA tourney. I think the AAC is much better than the A10 top to bottom.

[GoMuskies]

That's great but if you actually believe xavier would finish 2nd in the a10 based on what we have seen so far I have some great oceanfront property in louisville to sell ya

We'd be bunched in with a number of teams way below Dayton. There's no reason Xavier couldn't come out #2 in that scrum. Again, none of those are at-large NCAA teams, so we're talking about some pretty mediocre squads (including our own).

[GIMMFD]

To get back on topic, I think everybody knew there was going to be growing pains for Steele being a first time head coach. However, the formula has been very successful for us in the past. Steele definitely has to show that he's the one in charge, we shouldn't be doing the same mind numbing dumb mistakes as we have been for where we are in the season you know? It's different saying it in the presser and actually doing it, because we need a fire lit under our asses. I'm kind of shocked Dante hasn't gathered the group and given them a talk, or even them bringing someone like Tu in to speak to the team. Three straight blowout losses is pretty damn embarrassing.

[xcellentx]

That's great but if you actually believe xavier would finish 2nd in the a10 based on what we have seen so far I have some great oceanfront property in louisville to sell ya

Except that isn't what these are measuring. It isn't saying who will finish in what order. They are ranking how good teams are. Teams don't finish in conference based on how good they are especially when you have unbalanced schedules.

Even with how bad we are playing, it might be a little different if you replace Nova, SH, and Creighton with Fordham, George Mason, and UMass.

[paulxu]

Wofford beat UNC in Chapel Hill for the second time, after doing it 2 years ago.

[GoMuskies]

I didn't realize how bad Wofford was this year. I obviously knew UNC was bad, but losing to Wofford this year is not a good thing.

BOTH KenPom and Sagarin would rate UNC as the worst team in the Big East. So that's fun!

[xubrew]

My mistake for even bringing up the A10.

Let me start here. The notion that we'd be better off in the A10 is ridiculous. The notion that we'd look better in the eyes of the committee is also ridiculous. That's what I was trying to say and I should have just left it at that.

Mizzou, Missouri State, UConn, Wake, and Florida (at least at the time we played them) were NIT caliber teams at best, and for a fews of those that's being VERY generous. We barely beat three of them (two of which were at home), and didn't beat two of them.

Allow me to rephrase ENTIRELY....

The A10 has VCU, SLU, and Richmond, who I think are at the very least solid NIT caliber teams, and depending on how it plays out the may get close to the bubble. Yes, we've been playing teams that are much better than that, but with the exception of the game at Nova (where we did play pretty damn well) we've been getting our doors blown off. So when we sweat out three games against NIT-ish or worse teams, lose two more to NIT-ish or worse teams, and get smoked in three out of four games that we've played against NCAA teams, I don't think we'd be racking up the types of wins we need if we were in the A10.

As for a silver lining, I still think our ceiling is high, and while we have seldom played up to it, it's still a high ceiling. That, and because the Big East is what it is, we are only two or three wins away from completely shifting the momentum and the complexion of our season around. It's mid-January. There is still time.

[whopper]

We are getting less than expected performances from a number of players who have performed at Div I level and maybe the expectation was too high. I like Moore and Carter but kind of though we were getting played like Jorgenson(Butler) and Struss but both a level below. Fremantle is nice at times, but Hankins was a man and he now is a boy. Too much expectations were put onto Tandy and it does not help that he is always playing from behind. The core 4 have plateaued at a decent level but Q is a little snakebit and has regressed. Tyrique works hard but seems to be 6'8"(I remember as a freshman it was thought that he would grow to 7 feet. The talent level is good but when I see Butler, Seton Hall, Villanova, Marquette and even Providence(certainly Creighton) the path to victory involves threading the needle with no margin of error(and we certainly have not done that). I am prepared to watch a fine big East season, good games, hopefully a few upsets, and hope for a good BE Tournament and (maybe) NIT. NCAA seems like a pipe dream

[IM4X]

To get back on topic, I think everybody knew there was going to be growing pains for Steele being a first time head coach. However, the formula has been very successful for us in the past. Steele definitely has to show that he's the one in charge, we shouldn't be doing the same mind numbing dumb mistakes as we have been for where we are in the season you know? It's different saying it in the presser and actually doing it, because we need a fire lit under our asses. I'm kind of shocked Dante hasn't gathered the group and given them a talk, or even them bringing someone like Tu in to speak to the team. Three straight blowout losses is pretty damn embarrassing.

While, I believe I read Steele had several previous players come by the locker room (I think Tu might have been one of them), I am not sure any of them ever gave the type of tough reality talk about the X-pectations you have when you put an X uniform on and how far the team currently is from those expectations now. I posted a little whole back that I’d love to see Farr or Bernard coming back talking to them about how they were in a similar situation with their team not gelling and how they had to have a serious coming to Jesus moment their their teammates about waking the F up, and playing with purpose by outhustling and outsmarting every single opponent with every single possession.

Personally, I want to see an army of former X players reach out to this team and coaching staff. I think Tu and Farr and Bernard (and Even CJ and JP) should also reach out to Jones (and Q) separately and tell them what they need to be doing as senior leaders. They should be saying, “Do you want to be the first X team in forever to not make the NCAA tournament two straight years... cause that’s what your legacy will be, if you don’t get serious about things now.”

[paulxu]

I didn't realize how bad Wofford was this year. I obviously knew UNC was bad, but losing to Wofford this year is not a good thing.

BOTH KenPom and Sagarin would rate UNC as the worst team in the Big East. So that's fun!

They're not that bad this year, but the SoCon is a lot tougher road. Sort of like the BE in a way on a small scale.
Went to see them play Furman (and spank them) tonight.
I wish I had a tape of the Wofford offense to show the Muskies. They never stop moving. Constant motion to set up great shots...inside and out.
So hard for me to watch our guys stand around with one occasional high screen.

[XU22]

He hasn't even set foot on campus or practiced once yet.

You're gonna roll with him over a senior Paul Scruggs? Then I would start to wonder if Steele was trying to get fired.

Steele has really ticked off Paul's AAU coach. The one guy that is closest to him.

He moved Paul from Indy to Cali a month into his senior year over some beef with Paul's HS coach (Kyle Simpson) taking away his UA sponsorship

With how mad he is at Steele right now I wouldn't be shocked if Paul leaves even if it's not for the pros.

[Xville]

Steele has really ticked off Paul's AAU coach. The one guy that is closest to him.

He moved Paul from Indy to Cali a month into his senior year over some beef with Paul's HS coach (Kyle Simpson) taking away his UA sponsorship

With how mad he is at Steele right now I wouldn't be shocked if Paul leaves even if it's not for the pros.

What has Steele done to piss off his AAU coach? Does he feel as though he is misused? Because I certainly do.

[drudy23]

Is this really how things work today? Even the AAU coach has a say AFTER they get on campus?

I can certainly see it being a factor in the corrupt world of recruiting, but once they're there, the coaches don't tell them to piss off?

In saying that, it does feel that Paul hasn't come close to reaching his potential. At the same time, Paul doesn't seem pissed about it either.

[Masterofreality]

Well, boy. These are silver linings. :unsure:

[Xville]

Back on topic....silver lining---there is a game in two days

[Masterofreality]

Back on topic....silver lining---there is a game in two days

Hopefully my phone doesn’t get flung into a pillow again.

[whopper]

I am calling Knight of Columbus bingo during the game but will DVR and hope I will come home to a victory as I am sure I will be looking at the app. Will pray for Q(no kidding, usually I pray for cancer patients, disaster like Australia,etc) but I think him playing better (like 8 p 5a,2 To, 4 Reb) will cause a virtuous cycle where Moore will play better (not coming in to stem the tide), KyKy will play freer as a 2, and everyone will generally feel better. Watched all Big East this weekend and G-Town played Marquette tough(of course at home) and know it will be a tough game. Q playing better breaks the logjam and he (and his team and us fans) deserve it.

[XUBison]

Steele has really ticked off Paul's AAU coach. The one guy that is closest to him.

He moved Paul from Indy to Cali a month into his senior year over some beef with Paul's HS coach (Kyle Simpson) taking away his UA sponsorship

With how mad he is at Steele right now I wouldn't be shocked if Paul leaves even if it's not for the pros.

what the heck is this? We need some elaboration/substantiation here.

[bleedXblue]

what the heck is this? We need some elaboration/substantiation here.

I'm sure a lot of players aren't happy. I wish they would show that on the court, by playing with a chip on their shoulders more often.

Scruggs seems like a really good guy. He's playing a bunch of minutes, so that cant be it. Likely this guy thinks Scruggs should be at the PG spot. So does he and a whole bunch of other people......

[GIMMFD]

While, I believe I read Steele had several previous players come by the locker room (I think Tu might have been one of them), I am not sure any of them ever gave the type of tough reality talk about the X-pectations you have when you put an X uniform on and how far the team currently is from those expectations now. I posted a little whole back that I’d love to see Farr or Bernard coming back talking to them about how they were in a similar situation with their team not gelling and how they had to have a serious coming to Jesus moment their their teammates about waking the F up, and playing with purpose by outhustling and outsmarting every single opponent with every single possession.

Personally, I want to see an army of former X players reach out to this team and coaching staff. I think Tu and Farr and Bernard (and Even CJ and JP) should also reach out to Jones (and Q) separately and tell them what they need to be doing as senior leaders. They should be saying, “Do you want to be the first X team in forever to not make the NCAA tournament two straight years... cause that’s what your legacy will be, if you don’t get serious about things now.”

Yeah, I'm with you on that, obviously you don't know what has been said to these guys (whether they've reached out or not) or if they'd take it to heart or not, but I'd love to see former players at least try to give a bit of advice. I think we're lacking that bite, the one guy in the locker room who would give a speech like Bernard did to get things together, or that can really grab a hold of everybody and get them motivated to play hard as hell and turn things around. When we were down in the past, or looking to close out a game, guys like Trevon (he may have been quiet but his play did the talking), or Tu would take over, I don't see much of that in this group. I think Naji has the ability to, but he presses a little out of control. I'm surprised its not Tyrique honestly, as a Senior and seeing the swagger he plays with, I would have expected him to rally these guys. I guess we'll see how they respond on Wednesday.

[X-band '01]

Yeah, I'm with you on that, obviously you don't know what has been said to these guys (whether they've reached out or not) or if they'd take it to heart or not, but I'd love to see former players at least try to give a bit of advice. I think we're lacking that bite, the one guy in the locker room who would give a speech like Bernard did to get things together, or that can really grab a hold of everybody and get them motivated to play hard as hell and turn things around. When we were down in the past, or looking to close out a game, guys like Trevon (he may have been quiet but his play did the talking), or Tu would take over, I don't see much of that in this group. I think Naji has the ability to, but he presses a little out of control. I'm surprised its not Tyrique honestly, as a Senior and seeing the swagger he plays with, I would have expected him to rally these guys. I guess we'll see how they respond on Wednesday.

I should have also added CJ Anderson as a guy who would probably give the team a much needed come-to-Jesus pep talk if need be.

[noteggs]

I'm sure a lot of players aren't happy. I wish they would show that on the court, by playing with a chip on their shoulders more often.

Scruggs seems like a really good guy. He's playing a bunch of minutes, so that cant be it. Likely this guy thinks Scruggs should be at the PG spot. So does he and a whole bunch of other people......

Agree, Paul does seem like a good dude. I hope no one inside the program would be happy with BE play especially the last three games. I’m with XUBison and need some clarification.

Unfortunately, those not affiliated with program probably drop seeds from time to time. Doubt a lot of AAU coaches get into a spat with D1 coaches because that’s their lifeline for potential employment and/or exposure. I could be wrong because of how out of control AAU has become.

[XUGRAD80]

Agree, Paul does seem like a good dude. I hope no one inside the program would be happy with BE play especially the last three games. I’m with XUBison and need some clarification.

Doubt a lot of AAU coaches get into a spat with D1 coaches because that’s their lifeline for potential employment and/or exposure. I could be wrong because of how out of control AAU has become.

Agreed, but it’s a two way street also. AAU coaches can be a key to getting contact to potential recruits. I’m pretty sure that not everyone gets along, and sometimes the kids are in the middle. Which is a shame. Lots of egos involved.

[noteggs]

Agreed, but it’s a two way street also. AAU coaches can be a key to getting contact to potential recruits. I’m pretty sure that not everyone gets along, and sometimes the kids are in the middle. Which is a shame. Lots of egos involved.

100% on two way street.

[Muskie in dayton]

I am calling Knight of Columbus bingo during the game.

Wow, you could watch the game at the same time make your own bingo board with spaces like, “Naji nooo”, “what the hell are you guys doing”, “No more 3’s Q!”, and “you better change that up, Travis”. Now that would be a blast - a true silver lining in this mess!

[XU22]

I'm sure a lot of players aren't happy. I wish they would show that on the court, by playing with a chip on their shoulders more often.

Scruggs seems like a really good guy. He's playing a bunch of minutes, so that cant be it. Likely this guy thinks Scruggs should be at the PG spot. So does he and a whole bunch of other people......

Scruggs AAU coach is heavily involved in his life. Tries to get to every game and even went to Spain.

The issue is that he thinks Scruggs isn't being used correctly, and certain players are being allowed to do whatever they want with regards to offense without any repercussions.

His whole thought process is giving Paul the ball and let him run PG

[XU22]

Agreed, but it’s a two way street also. AAU coaches can be a key to getting contact to potential recruits. I’m pretty sure that not everyone gets along, and sometimes the kids are in the middle. Which is a shame. Lots of egos involved.

Everyone wants the top 50 players, and no one wants the baggage they bring.

[Xville]

Scruggs AAU coach is heavily involved in his life. Tries to get to every game and even went to Spain.

The issue is that he thinks Scruggs isn't being used correctly, and certain players are being allowed to do whatever they want with regards to offense without any repercussions.

His whole thought process is giving Paul the ball and let him run PG

So basically what everyone with a brain wants, and sees that would be the best for the team. Except steele who either is protecting the locker room, protecting q's feelings or is a.complete idiot.

[drudy23]

So basically what everyone with a brain wants, and sees that would be the best for the team. Except steele who either is protecting the locker room, protecting q's feelings or is a.complete idiot.

Or refusing to meet the demands on the AAU coach on principle and letting the team suffer in spite of it. Ego.

You can't be the head guy and coach the team with fear. I remember when Miller was in the same situation as a first time head coach. He was trying to be everything to everyone, and failing the team. He finally realized this and with the flip of a switch, turn into the asshole overnight - and it was the betterment of the team. I think I remember him even saying it was a turning point in his evolution as a head coach.

[xavierj]

Steele has really ticked off Paul's AAU coach. The one guy that is closest to him.

He moved Paul from Indy to Cali a month into his senior year over some beef with Paul's HS coach (Kyle Simpson) taking away his UA sponsorship

With how mad he is at Steele right now I wouldn't be shocked if Paul leaves even if it's not for the pros.

I doubt Paul would leave and sit a year. He would be 24 in 2 years. Unless he is on schedule to graduate in three years. He will be at Xavier or the G league.

[XUGRAD80]

I doubt Paul would leave and sit a year. He would be 24 in 2 years. Unless he is on schedule to graduate in three years. He will be at Xavier or the G league.

Agree. I would hope that PS is not the same person today that he was as a HS senior, and that he could make up his OWN mind and not be made to do something stupid by an outside source. He’s what, 22 years old at this point? If he hasn’t grown up enough at this point, where he can decide for himself what he is going to do, maybe that’s part of the problem with this team?

[sirthought]

I’d love to see Farr or Bernard coming back talking to them about how they were in a similar situation with their team not gelling and how they had to have a serious coming to Jesus moment their their teammates about waking the F up, and playing with purpose by outhustling and outsmarting every single opponent with every single possession.


Nothing says coming to Jesus like laying blame and saying you suck…now play harder. :biggrin:

[IM4X]

Yeah, I'm with you on that, obviously you don't know what has been said to these guys (whether they've reached out or not) or if they'd take it to heart or not, but I'd love to see former players at least try to give a bit of advice. I think we're lacking that bite, the one guy in the locker room who would give a speech like Bernard did to get things together, or that can really grab a hold of everybody and get them motivated to play hard as hell and turn things around. When we were down in the past, or looking to close out a game, guys like Trevon (he may have been quiet but his play did the talking), or Tu would take over, I don't see much of that in this group. I think Naji has the ability to, but he presses a little out of control. I'm surprised its not Tyrique honestly, as a Senior and seeing the swagger he plays with, I would have expected him to rally these guys. I guess we'll see how they respond on Wednesday.

I was thinking the same thing about Tyrique. I am crossing my fingers we see him become that senior leader who gets the team fired up and on a long winning streak starting today.

[drudy23]

Tyrique hasn't been spectacular, but he's having a decent season. He's provided needed support on the boards all year.

Tyrique is the least of this team's problems.

[Masterofreality]

Tyrique hasn't been spectacular, but he's having a decent season. He's provided needed support on the boards all year.

Tyrique is the least of this team's problems.

Ty is fine. Besides Free, no one else is really helping on the boards. Some of that is scheme positioning. If you go back and look at past years, our guards did a much better job of helping and also tipping balls they couldn't totally reach to keep the ball alive. We have definitely had an effort problem.

[IM4X]

Nothing says coming to Jesus like laying blame and saying you suck…now play harder. :biggrin:

Now that’s a greeting card right there- I got a little teary-eyed just reading it.

[GIMMFD]

Tyrique hasn't been spectacular, but he's having a decent season. He's provided needed support on the boards all year.

Tyrique is the least of this team's problems.

I agree with that assessment, I'm by no way criticizing Tyrique's game, and again we don't really know what goes on in practice or in the locker room, I was just saying that he's the one guy on this squad I'd expect to be a vocal leader, and to get everyone in line. We got a win today, and hopefully that momentum can carry us a few games, winning at Creighton would be huge to keep building confidence in the squad.