Game Thread: Xavier vs. DePaul (2/4/2020) BE Conference Game

[paulxu]

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/kBAAAOSwqfNXkU44/s-l300.jpg VS. https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ab/8c/08/ab8c08f4176b9da3d0ad1d87c8422682.png


XAVIER UNIVERSITY MUSKETEERS (14-8, 3-6 BIG EAST)
DEPAUL UNIVERSITY BLUE DEMONS (13-9, 1-8 BIG EAST)
TUESDAY, FEB. 4, 2020 AT 9 P.M. ET (8 P.M. CT)
WINTRUST CENTER (10,387) IN CHICAGO, ILL.

Television: FS1 with Lisa Byington and Stephen Bardo.
Radio: 55KRC-AM with play-by-play from XU Hall of Famer and former Musketeer standout Joe Sunderman ('79). Analysis will be provided by Xavier Hall of Famer and XU all-time leading scorer Byron Larkin ('88). Broadcast is also available via Sirius XM (388) and Internet (970).
Live Stats: Media stats at Statbroadcast.com and fan stats at GoXavier.com.

[paulxu]

Guaranteed to be more exciting than the State of the Union address.

[bleedXblue]

Guaranteed to be more exciting than the State of the Union address.

Actually I find Trump very entertaining...........you never quite know what hes going to say.........

[Final4]

How is DePaul doing "crowd-wise" this season? Any chance tonight will resemble past years where it seemed there were more X fans in the stands?

[AviatorX]

Xavier (especially Naji) is going to roll tonight and we're going to start talking ourselves into a 6 seed with the way the schedule breaks the rest of the way.

Or this will be quoted at about 11:30pm ET like the posts from the front of the Seton Hall game thread.

[XU 23]

How is DePaul doing "crowd-wise" this season? Any chance tonight will resemble past years where it seemed there were more X fans in the stands?

They got about 9,000 vs. Butler last week. Their arena holds 10.3:

https://www.allmysportsteamssuck.com/2020/01/20/ncaa-basketball-2019-20-attendance-week-10-high-lander-but-low-attendance-r/

[Muskie]

How is DePaul doing "crowd-wise" this season? Any chance tonight will resemble past years where it seemed there were more X fans in the stands?

I think the Week Night game will put a damper on the X contingency. I have for the past three seasons made this a weekend event (there new stadiunm is great by the way). Since it's an early game and I have to work on Wednesday, I didn't make the trip. I think it'll cut down on the Indy contingent that travels there at least.

[Muskie]

They got about 9,000 vs. Butler last week. Their arena holds 10.3:

https://www.allmysportsteamssuck.com/2020/01/20/ncaa-basketball-2019-20-attendance-week-10-high-lander-but-low-attendance-r/

That was a Saturday game. I'm sure the Indianapolis area made a weekend of it in Chicago.

[kellernr]

Depaul plays some tough defense. Need Q and Scruggs to limit the lazy passes tonight. Hoping to see the Q that we saw against Marquette.

[Xville]

Because it worked last game......blue demons by 20

[Xuperman]

Charlie Moore really concerns me. He has nearly an identical game to that of Mo Watson for CU a few years back and that guy gave us fits....small, lightning fast dude with elite BBIQ that has his fingerprints on everything. Looking forward to seeing what Tandy can do with him. KyKy matches his quickness nicely.


Because it worked last game......blue demons by 20

That's funny but last time you were stone cold serious. I guess it's possible you're serious now and I'm sure you will play the part in this thread if the Demons get any kind of a lead.

[Double Down]

When was the last time X played at DePaul on a Saturday? Big East schedulers not kind to X fans!

[GoMuskies]

When was the last time X played at DePaul on a Saturday? Big East schedulers not kind to X fans!

Last year

[94GRAD]

When was the last time X played at DePaul on a Saturday? Big East schedulers not kind to X fans!


Last year

I was at the game the year before that at noon, took a little nap around 5 pm.

[drudy23]

Cannot lose tonight. That is all.

[Xville]

Charlie Moore really concerns me. He has nearly an identical game to that of Mo Watson for CU a few years back and that guy gave us fits....small, lightning fast dude with elite BBIQ that has his fingerprints on everything. Looking forward to seeing what Tandy can do with him. KyKy matches his quickness nicely.



That's funny but last time you were stone cold serious. I guess it's possible you're serious now and I'm sure you will play the part in this thread if the Demons get any kind of a lead.

Your obsession is growing

[bjf123]

Cannot lose tonight. That is all.

What he said.


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[X Factor]

Already on page 2 of the game thread and we're still 4 1/2 hours from tip-off...

[Xville]

Really need two wins this week to set the team up for a very realistic tourney bid. Let's gitr done

[94GRAD]

Already on page 2 of the game thread and we're still 4 1/2 hours from tip-off...

Change your settings to 40 posts per page!

[chico]

If this is as close as the oddsmakers say it is, I really hope we practiced free throws in practice this week.

Actually, they're not a very good FT shooting team, either - 65%, same as us.

[X-band '01]

When was the last time X played at DePaul on a Saturday? Big East schedulers not kind to X fans!

I think this is only the second time that Xavier is NOT playing DePaul on a weekend in Chicago.

[X-band '01]

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/kBAAAOSwqfNXkU44/s-l300.jpg VS. https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ab/8c/08/ab8c08f4176b9da3d0ad1d87c8422682.png


XAVIER UNIVERSITY MUSKETEERS (14-8, 3-6 BIG EAST)
DEPAUL UNIVERSITY BLUE DEMONS (13-9, 1-8 BIG EAST)
TUESDAY, FEB. 4, 2020 AT 9 P.M. ET (8 P.M. CT)
WINTRUST CENTER (10,387) IN CHICAGO, ILL.

Television: FS1 with Lisa Byington and Stephen Bardo.
Radio: 55KRC-AM with play-by-play from XU Hall of Famer and former Musketeer standout Joe Sunderman ('79). Analysis will be provided by Xavier Hall of Famer and XU all-time leading scorer Byron Larkin ('88). Broadcast is also available via Sirius XM (388) and Internet (970).
Live Stats: Media stats at Statbroadcast.com and fan stats at GoXavier.com.

Personally, I was hoping for the old school Pooping Demon logo.

[XUBison]

If this is as close as the oddsmakers say it is, I really hope we practiced free throws in practice this week...


Nope, sorry. According to the experts on this board, our high major D1 coaches and players would never work on fundamentals and individual development in the midst of a season. Jeesh, don’t you know anything?

[AviatorX]

Nope, sorry. According to the experts on this board, our high major D1 coaches and players would never work on fundamentals and individual development in the midst of a season. Jeesh, don’t you know anything?

Yes, this is exactly what I posted lol.

Having seen many Xavier practices over the years, I am sure free throws were practiced (as they always are).

[XUBison]

Yes, this is exactly what I posted lol.

Having seen many Xavier practices over the years, I am sure free throws were practiced (as they always are).

Hey, don’t get your Spanks in a bunch. You’ve persuaded me. I get it now... our outstanding coaching staff has their hands tied with this terrible roster, despite the awesome job they did recruiting it. There’s just nothing they can do to help these poor , pathetic players improve at this point in the season. I mean who could, really?

[AviatorX]

Hey, don’t get your Spanks in a bunch. You’ve persuaded me. I get it now... our outstanding coaching staff has their hands tied with this terrible roster, despite the awesome job they did recruiting it. There’s just nothing they can do to help these poor , pathetic players improve at this point in the season. I mean who could, really?

Coming in hot. I'm impressed.

[GoMuskies]

What the fuck are you guys talking about? Are you two already drunk? If so, respect!

[XUBison]

What the fuck are you guys talking about? Are you two already drunk? If so, respect!

Arg, too much time before this late start.

[noteggs]

Arg, too much time before this late start.

Wayyyy toooo much time before tip-off and hate these 9pm games as I might have the Corona beer virus tomorrow morning. (No disrespect for those who may actually have a form of it...damn I hate these clarifiers...but no seriously, hope everyone is doing well...cheers!)

[Xuperman]

I'm thinking Jones starts to stack up numbers that get's him in the ALL BE conversation....Best true 5 in conference? Let's see if Butz can "chain" him.
:munch:

[paulxu]

Personally, I was hoping for the old school Pooping Demon logo.

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/iV7vtZB4SsMTLQN4h-yoyEcAgay9f7o96zctZ2zpNJ-0-aEHazfdc68u73vT9SCs_LfLoHOgmYMp5d2raW8d9eD-Fvyc63tNgXBimRQemTnvS9nQd1BxOsLODbd3-u5N1vKeEw

[scoscox]

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/iV7vtZB4SsMTLQN4h-yoyEcAgay9f7o96zctZ2zpNJ-0-aEHazfdc68u73vT9SCs_LfLoHOgmYMp5d2raW8d9eD-Fvyc63tNgXBimRQemTnvS9nQd1BxOsLODbd3-u5N1vKeEw

#bringbackpoopingdemon

[bleedXblue]

If this is as close as the oddsmakers say it is, I really hope we practiced free throws in practice this week.

Actually, they're not a very good FT shooting team, either - 65%, same as us.

Do people really believe practicing FT's is going to have a measurable impact?

[scoscox]

Do people really believe practicing FT's is going to have a measurable impact?

i get that memeing against boomers constantly harping on ft's is tiresome, but yes it does help to practice free throws

[D-West & PO-Z]

I'm thinking Jones starts to stack up numbers that get's him in the ALL BE conversation....Best true 5 in conference? Let's see if Butz can "chain" him.
:munch:

He got another double double today before even playing.

Shannon tweeted a stat correction from a previous game where a rebound was incorrectly given to Naji and it has been fixed and given to Jones which gave him 10 rebounds that game and gave him another double double. Tied with Reed for tops in the conference and 4th nationally.

[SkyWalker]

https://youtu.be/ted5qn8ElZk

Practice!

[Muskie]

Charlie Moore really concerns me. He has nearly an identical game to that of Mo Watson for CU a few years back and that guy gave us fits....small, lightning fast dude with elite BBIQ that has his fingerprints on everything. Looking forward to seeing what Tandy can do with him. KyKy matches his quickness nicely.



That's funny but last time you were stone cold serious. I guess it's possible you're serious now and I'm sure you will play the part in this thread if the Demons get any kind of a lead.

I feel like Tandy on Moore is a bad defensive match up speed aside. He’s been lost on defense most of the season. If he’s not hitting shots at a good clip, it’s a bad match up and X would likely lose.


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[kellernr]

Muskies will hit 76% of their free throws tonight.

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[Muskie]

Q coming off the bench. Free with the start.


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[D-West & PO-Z]

Lets go. Rebounding and scruggs to start!

[Xville]

Scruggy!!!

[paulxu]

Let's keep this up!

[Xville]

Amazing how good a team looks when they make outside shots

[X Factor]

Heck yeah boys!

[AviatorX]

Watching Jason Carter is weird. It almost feels like he's got it 90% figured out, but that last 10% is akin to climbing Everest. Just so not smooth.

[noteggs]

Amazing how good a team looks when they make outside shots

Lol! So true!!!

[RoseyMuskie]

Couldn’t ask for a better start.

[fellahmuskie]

Can we do this for the rest of the year? I love that Naji and Paul are carrying the team early.

[UCGRAD4X]

Hope this spreads the floor for them open up the inside game.

My guess is the Demons are going to be satisfied with letting them launch from distance.

Can they keep it up?

[D-West & PO-Z]

Great start And yes amazing when you make some outside shots. We miss all those and it looks completely different. Love to see scruggs taking so many early shots. Usually takes him too long to get involved.

[XUBison]

Man, can this team shoot or what!

[xu82]

Naji could have gotten that long 3 off at any time. Try for a better shot before chucking that up.

[AviatorX]

Scruggs really needs to take care of the ball.

[paulxu]

Good show guys. Ball movement, player movement, sharing...and lock down D.

Keep it up!

[noteggs]

Sloppy shots by both teams

[X Factor]

Keep driving and kicking, good things will happen.

[drudy23]

Two possessions of not great shots. Don't settle.

[Xavgrad08]

it is amazing how much better Xavier looks.

[drudy23]

Don't take foot off gas.

[noteggs]

Crowd is sparse which is good

[drudy23]

Let's go!!!!!

[fellahmuskie]

Not bad

[X Factor]

What the heck is going on???

This is amazing.

[drudy23]

Leadership from the upperclassmen right here - don't let your team have a let down now.

[xavierj]

They have stretched the floor. Get Jones in and pound the inside for awhile.

[UCGRAD4X]

Q off the bench. Why didn't somebody think of that sooner?

[D-West & PO-Z]

Amazing start. Shots are falling from everyone!

[X Factor]

I dont like this lineup

[drudy23]

Bad Naji there.

[paulxu]

Why does Naji have to do hero ball?

[mid major]

Who are these imposters wearing Xavier jerseys? :)

[UCGRAD4X]

that's our Q

[drudy23]

When Naji turns to hero ball, take his ass out.

[X Factor]

Goodin's pattended give it right to the other team play

[drudy23]

Don't like this lineup.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Amazing start. Shots are falling from everyone!

Except Moore....

[UCGRAD4X]

bailed out there

[X Factor]

Please take Moore out.

[drudy23]

Moore, Carter, and Goodin on the floor at the same time is not ideal. Zero shooters, zero penetrators.

You could see the stall in the offense with that lineup. Put it in the memory bank Trav.

[Xville]

Moore, Carter, and Goodin on the floor at the same time is not ideal. Zero shooters, zero penetrators.

You could see the stall in the offense with that lineup. Put it in the memory bank Trav.

True story.

[noteggs]

Why does Naji have to do hero ball?

Thought same! Had a hunch DePaul was going to go on run after

[AviatorX]

Stephen Bardo is a horrible color analyst.

[drudy23]

Eat Tyrique!!!

Grown man moves!!!

[xu82]

Tyrique is a BEAST!!!

[Blue Blooded-05]

I’m amazed Ty’s free throw percentage isn’t exactly 50%. Makes 1 of 2 every damn time

[RoseyMuskie]

Jones’ intensity is once again superb. Not like Reed is a pushover either.

[drudy23]

Jesus christ Naji

[D-West & PO-Z]

Stephen Bardo is a horrible color analyst.

One of the worst.

Better than Dickey Simpkins but not by much.

[Xville]

Woof the basketball the last five minutes has been ugly.

Bad naji does too much dribbling that doesnt go anywhere.

[xu82]

You can easily tell when Naji is hell bent on shooting. The other 4 guys might as well take a seat and get a quick breather in.

[X Factor]

Naji "I'm not even looking to pass" Marshall.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Seems like the game is going twice as fast for Carter than everyone else.

[Xavgrad08]

i Love the lead, but we are getting sloppy. Stay disciplined.

[drudy23]

KyKy is the just what this team needed.

[xu82]

With 1:35 left in the half, DePaul has all of 16 points!

[Xville]

The change in effort the last two games has been astounding.

[HenryMuto]

Too bad X didn't get that win vs Marquette. That may be the difference in making the tournament and not come selection Sunday.

[drudy23]

If not for Naji, we'd be up 25.

[xu82]

Too bad X didn't get that win vs Marquette. That may be the difference in making the tournament and not come selection Sunday.

Just finish strong, it’s all you can do!

[fellahmuskie]

It's crazy how much more active we are on offense (and defense). Steele must have finally got his message across. And it doesn't hurt when the threes go down.

[drudy23]

Too bad X didn't get that win vs Marquette. That may be the difference in making the tournament and not come selection Sunday.

No way - plenty of opportunity for this team to get back in the good graces of the bubble.

[UCGRAD4X]

WTF Naji? Quit trying to force it into the lane.

[drudy23]

Bad Naji, and we're still up 20.

Get in his ear Trav.

[mid major]

Is this whre we take the air out of the ball?

[Xville]

Too bad X didn't get that win vs Marquette. That may be the difference in making the tournament and not come selection Sunday.

Not going to matter, they'll make it

[chico]

All we need to do is hold them to their first half output and not score a point and we win by 3.

[noteggs]

I know offense is what the offense is, but defense was awesome!!!

[AviatorX]

Not going to matter, they'll make it

Wow that guy sucks.

[paulxu]

DePaul went the last 8:23 without scoring a point.

That's winning 2 4minute wars for sure.

[xavierj]

If not for Naji, we'd be up 25.

Yeah his 7 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, a steal and lock down defense have done nothing for X. I expect a big 2nd half from him on the offensive end. He also hasnÂ’t committed a foul. Questionable shots, yes, but he is playing hard and loose, as is everyone else.

[Xville]

Wow that guy sucks.

Not shocking...he is a uk fan after all

[AviatorX]

Yeah his 7 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, a steal and lock down defense have done nothing for X. I expect a big 2nd half from him on the offensive end. He also hasnÂ’t committed a foul. Questionable shots, yes, but he is playing hard and loose, as is everyone else.

I'm with you. Definitely could have skipped a few of the 3's, but Naji has "the look" tonight (and last Saturday).

[xavierj]

Naji also 0 turnovers. Just needs to not force shots. His will come.

[drudy23]

Naji hasn't played well, I don't care what the stat line says.

Forced shots ARE turnovers.

That being said, I don't care, we're up 20.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Amazingly few fouls and turnovers on both sides. Jones is not scoring much but he is rebounding like a beast.

[xavierj]

Naji hasn't played well, I don't care what the stat line says.

Forced shots ARE turnovers.

That being said, I don't care, we're up 20.

He has taken bad shots. More to the game than that. Zero turnovers and Coleman Lands can’t get any open looks. He is playing just fine.

[noteggs]

One more time, defense was awesome!!!

[stammina0721]

Naji hasn't played well, I don't care what the stat line says.

Forced shots ARE turnovers.

That being said, I don't care, we're up 20.

Just stop

[UCGRAD4X]

One more time, defense was awesome!!!

Yeah it is!!!!

[xu82]

One more time, defense was awesome!!!

I don’t know....I’d like to keep the under 15 for a half. So much work to do there! :-)

[AviatorX]

No way DePaul will look THAT bad again this half, so they'll probably chip away to have it down to 8 or so points, but feels like X will keep them at bay with a heavy dose of Tyrique and Naji getting a few to go down.

[drudy23]

We take this one by 25.

[GIMMFD]

Too bad X didn't get that win vs Marquette. That may be the difference in making the tournament and not come selection Sunday.

Not sure where you came up with this from considering it's been talked at lengths about the quality of the Big East and the numerous opportunities at hand still for Q1 wins, if we continue to play with the fire that has been seen the last couple games *knocks on wood*, we'll be dancing quite comfortably.


It's crazy how much more active we are on offense (and defense). Steele must have finally got his message across. And it doesn't hurt when the threes go down.

I would love to know wtf he must have said for the switch to just kind of come on, but it's nice to finally see some improvement in that regards, great first half, and now just have to close them out in the second, definitely much more enjoyable to watch when we aren't doing mind numbingly dumb things.

[xu82]

If you have to watch the replay over and over, the call should stand.

[kellernr]

Carter has no shot clock awareness. That's twice now with 5 left on the clock and he passes it off

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[xu82]

Have to withstand the run, and step back on their throats.....in a kind and Christian way, of course.

[paulxu]

Don't like this start. Need to settle down.

[noteggs]

Good timeout for those Steele...

[kellernr]

Here comes the typical, we have a lead we can coast mentality. Take the damn ball right at Reed and give him his 4th foul. Letting jones stand at the top of the key with the ball for 10 seconds basically wastes the entire possession.

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[kellernr]

3 violations now.

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[bjf123]

And that’s how you let a team back in the game.


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[Xville]

Uh hello guys?

[SM#24]

Naji hasn't played well, I don't care what the stat line says.

Forced shots ARE turnovers.

That being said, I don't care, we're up 20.

The way the 2nd half has started, we may have needed to be up 30. Wasted possessions are just that. Our only points so far are a cherrypick basket.

[drudy23]

We're good.

[Xville]

Good regroup...and withstood DePaul's run

[XU 23]

Bryce Moore!!!

[stammina0721]

I figured it out... Xavier is now officially allergic to January. Once the schedule flips to February they become a new team again. Did it last year and this year is following suit so far

[xavierj]

Jones is a man possessed. Only has taken 3 shots but his defense and rebounding is unreal. 15 boards, 7 offensive. Beating out like 4 guys at a time for the rebounds.

[XU 23]

Bryce Stockton.

[drudy23]

Get off me little man!!!

[UCGRAD4X]

Tyrique Jones = Man

[fellahmuskie]

Get off me little man!!!

When drudy23 is happy, everybody's happy on here. I love the unrelenting intensity tonight from Tyrique!

[X Factor]

Tyrique is dominating without scoring.

[UCGRAD4X]

Tyrique's a bum!

[drudy23]

A man possessed.

[mid major]

We've hit four free throws in a row.

[xu82]

That is AWESOME passing with a strong finish by Tyrique!

[X Factor]

That was NASTY!!!

[Xville]

Wooooo

[drudy23]

Take care of business on Saturday, and we're right there again.

[X Factor]

That Xavier commercial has the most unflattering light...geesh.

[paulxu]

Well that was 2 sloppy ass plays in a row.

[xu82]

HOOOOLYYYYY shit! Learn to break a press.

[mid major]

Well, this isn't quite over yet.

[Xville]

Good to see q hasnt forgotten his customary lazy pass

[XU 23]

What was THAT?

[UCGRAD4X]

See the floor burn on Carter...

[kellernr]

Quit going to the corners when they are pressing. Stupid

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[xu82]

It’s FT MAKING time!

[drudy23]

Jfc

[paulxu]

Can we "practice" press breaks? Is that allowed?

[xu82]

MAKE the FT’s, shut up the crowd.

[kellernr]

Scruggs needs to learn to use a timeout when hes trapped. Hes always one dribble, stop then turnover

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[Xavgrad08]

Tyrique coming up big with the foul shots.

[drudy23]

Like the defensive intensity there.

[drudy23]

Put in KyKy to break the damn press.

[xu82]

Getting the ball past half court feels like a victory.

[paulxu]

Can we "practice" press breaks? Is that allowed?

Bump

[fellahmuskie]

I guess Steele will have plenty to talk about in practice this week...

[X Factor]

Where is KyKy?? Holy crap!!!

[IM4X]

Can we put Kyky in please. Naji, Scruggs and Q look like old men trying to break the press.

[xu82]

Put in KyKy to break the damn press.

He’s Gotta help! I wish they would put FT% up with the game stats for every FT.

[XUBison]

Can we "practice" press breaks? Is that allowed?


Maybe Aviator can chime in with a ruling?

[SemajParlor]

I have no idea why Naji Marshall takes out the ball during a stressful press situation.

[xu82]

Huge makes there!

[drudy23]

Roadkill, that's all that matters. I'll take the W

[HenryMuto]

Great night tonight. Kentucky, Ohio State and Xavier all win on the same night it doesn't get any better than that.

[GIMMFD]

I have no idea why Naji Marshall takes out the ball during a stressful press situation.

Really nice of Coach Steele to make sure that all of our physiological regulations to blood pressure are working smoothly. Great guy.

[Xville]

It got ugly but whatever, they did what they had to do. Win saturday and this gets really fun

[kellernr]

Naji is an awful ball handler. Dribbles too far away from his body

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[GIMMFD]

Roadkill, that's all that matters. I'll take the W

Yup, especially since the opening line had us losing by 3.5, I'm all for a roadkill, a win against Providence in a few days would really do wonders for our psyche.

[paulxu]

Someone needs to tell Naji that this isn't the NBA.
In college, if you dribble the ball chest high...the other team really will defend...and just take the ball away from you.

[whopper]

man we were just not strong with the ball then, worst of both worlds holding it weakly or dribbling in place and allowing refs to swallow whistle a little. I do thing Nag got fouled with about 30 sec to go and it allowed them to get 5 more pts though.. I thought Reed was going to get some 3 point opportunities too so it evened out. I also think we lost Dontarious James as he did not seem animated at all...too bad and I hope I am wrong

[bleedXblue]

Maddening they are. At least we made a bunch of FT's down the stretch. Sort of covers up shitting down the pants leg.

[noteggs]

Next

[bleedXblue]

man we were just not strong with the ball then, worst of both worlds holding it weakly or dribbling in place and allowing refs to swallow whistle a little. I do thing Nag got fouled with about 30 sec to go and it allowed them to get 5 more pts though.. I thought Reed was going to get some 3 point opportunities too so it evened out

waiting for some genius to point out that we need to practice more against the press

[mid major]

How in the hell are we not able to break the press? There are multiple guys open. A win is a win I reckon.

[UCGRAD4X]

I think they were hacked like hell on a bunch of those 'steals' - great time to "let 'em play"

[AviatorX]

Maybe Aviator can chime in with a ruling?


I say let them practice it, but I don't think it's going to get any better with this group of decision makers when they go into brainless mode.

To their credit, I thought DePaul did a good job of being really physical in their press since the refs were letting them play it out for the most part. No problem with that from me, but in another game 2-3 of those turnovers are X shooting free throws. College officiating.

[muskiefan82]

I never pick against X in the pick the score contest, but I decided to see if it would work in reverse if I picked them to lose against Seton Hall and DePaul. My strategy seems to be working.....

[UCGRAD4X]

They sure as hell better work on that press break because sure as God made little green apples they are going to see it a bunch from here on out.

[xu82]

It seems early for “survive and advance”, but that’s how it feels. Maybe I’ll feel better tomorrow.

[xu82]

I never pick against X in the pick the score contest, but I decided to see if it would work in reverse if I picked them to lose against Seton Hall and DePaul. My strategy seems to be working.....

If you stop, I will hunt you down and make you do unspeakable things! How do you feel about Skyline Chili?

[AviatorX]

Overall, I think "protecting huge leads to close out Q1 road Big East wins" is pretty far down this team's list of problems so I'm going to just take these at face value.

[OTRMUSKIE]

I hate when sucky X shows up, they look so bad. Good thing is they only showed up for a small portion of the game. That’s another quad 1 win and another road win which makes 3 now. 5-3 rest of the way and we’re dancing baby!!! Let’s go get them priest Sat!!!!

[X-band '01]

They sure as hell better work on that press break because sure as God made little green apples they are going to see it a bunch from here on out.

Not for 40 minutes a game, but man did DePaul lull Xavier to sleep in the final 5 minutes.

At the end, take the W after a month and a half of hell.

[muskiefan82]

I've already decided to continue this strategy and damn the contest standings!!

[Lloyd Braun]

It’s never easy or pretty and it won’t be anytime soon. But it looks like they are finding some identity.

[AviatorX]

KenPom defense back up to #25. Need that in the top 20.

[UCGRAD4X]

I've already decided to continue this strategy and damn the contest standings!!

How has picking X to win all the time worked out for you in the standings so far this season?

I have 3 1's a 2 and a 3rd place but am nowhere to be seen in the standing for that very reason (that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it).

[muskiefan82]

How has picking X to win all the time worked out for you in the standings so far this season?

I have 3 1's a 2 and a 3rd place but am nowhere to be seen in the standing for that very reason (that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it).
I was Top 25 this year. I've won the whole thing twice in the past. Just decided to go a different way after the disappointment of Marquette. It seems to be working

[XUBison]

I say let them practice it, but I don't think it's going to get any better with this group of decision makers when they go into brainless mode.

To their credit, I thought DePaul did a good job of being really physical in their press since the refs were letting them play it out for the most part. No problem with that from me, but in another game 2-3 of those turnovers are X shooting free throws. College officiating.

Aha, I see. Practice it, but don‘t expect results. It‘s so... new agey.

[xavierj]

They sure as hell better work on that press break because sure as God made little green apples they are going to see it a bunch from here on out.

They saw it the whole game against Seton Hall. The thing is you can’t press the entire game line DePaul did. You will either get really tired or everyone will foul out. Xavier needs to handle it better, but the refs let DePaul hack the shit out of X like they had money on the over.

[xavierj]

Aha, I see. Practice it, but don‘t expect results. It‘s so... new agey.

Do people really think college basketball teams don’t practice a press break?

[AviatorX]

Aha, I see. Practice it, but don‘t expect results. It‘s so... new agey.

I honestly can't tell if we have a sarcastic back and forth going here or what, but I'm happy to keep it up as long as X keeps winning.

Just as a reminder, the original post you're defending called for the coaching staff to instruct Goodin and Carter to aim for the square on the backboard on layups and to run more "layup drills."

[xu82]

Do people really think college basketball teams don’t practice a press break?

There’s really not much time after you study up for the next Theology quiz.

[GIMMFD]

I never pick against X in the pick the score contest, but I decided to see if it would work in reverse if I picked them to lose against Seton Hall and DePaul. My strategy seems to be working.....

Haha I kind of did the same thing, I stopped picking any score in the pick em contest, and we've won two, so I'm not going to pick anymore. Feed the streak!!


They saw it the whole game against Seton Hall. The thing is you can’t press the entire game line DePaul did. You will either get really tired or everyone will foul out. Xavier needs to handle it better, but the refs let DePaul hack the shit out of X like they had money on the over.

Scenes when we get like Stephen F. Austin in the NCAA Tournament and they run a press the entire time against us, and we're all sitting here incredibly upset at lack of good decisions this team makes haha.

[GoMuskies]

Get in, get a win, get out. Well done.

[bleedXblue]

We made FT's down the stretch. Seriously, we need to turn the corner here too. Make 65%+ as a team down the stretch and those extra 2-4 points a game go a long way.

Proud of this team. They seem to have some really good mojo right now.

[SkyWalker]

Haha I kind of did the same thing, I stopped picking any score in the pick em contest, and we've won two, so I'm not going to pick anymore. Feed the streak!!

Hey. What about me. If I didn't have this contest, no one would be able to pick against X or not pick at all.

[GoMuskies]

In the first ten minutes of this game, our team looked like a Final Four contender. While obviously the offense didn't keep up that pace, it's good to know that team is in there. Means anything can happen if we can just get inside the Bubble on Selection Sunday.

[xcellentx]

I say let them practice it, but I don't think it's going to get any better with this group of decision makers when they go into brainless mode.

To their credit, I thought DePaul did a good job of being really physical in their press since the refs were letting them play it out for the most part. No problem with that from me, but in another game 2-3 of those turnovers are X shooting free throws. College officiating.

Is there a press break simulator we can put Scruggs in?

[sgarcia]

Is there a press break simulator we can put Scruggs in?

Haha. It is pretty bad. I don't understand why we never screen the man guarding the inbounder to make the first pass easier or set a screen or screens to help a teammate get open. We run the exact same "press break" every time and it's brutal to watch.

[scoscox]

In the first ten minutes of this game, our team looked like a Final Four contender. While obviously the offense didn't keep up that pace, it's good to know that team is in there. Means anything can happen if we can just get inside the Bubble on Selection Sunday.

We’ve been crushing teams on defense and the boards and kyky has given us some relief on offense. 16 points and 23 points in the first half for depaul and seton hall is getting it done

[Masterofreality]

In the first ten minutes of this game, our team looked like a Final Four contender. While obviously the offense didn't keep up that pace, it's good to know that team is in there. Means anything can happen if we can just get inside the Bubble on Selection Sunday.

Just like the Seton Hall game, thank Gawd for the first 10 minutes. We had 29 points after the first 10:22. It took us another 27:13 of playing time to match that 29 point total. And not to demean the defense, and Thank Gawd also for Tyrique the Manimal, but DePaul was awful until the last 5 minutes of the whole game. AND, finally, Thank Gawd that Leito is still such a trash coach that he couldn't see how we were not good under full court pressure defense with questionable ball handlers all over the court until the very end.

Look, I'm overjoyed for the Roadkills, but damn. In a lot of ways, when you take the hot early shooting away from both games, this team still has significant issues. I still can't see what, other than a play or two, what Jason Carter brings to the table. But man, does he get minutes. I'm graciously accepting the early points, but I still have reservations. Sorry for the realism.

[xufan2020]

Just like the Seton Hall game, thank Gawd for the first 10 minutes. We had 29 points after the first 10:22. It took us another 27:13 of playing time to match that 29 point total. And not to demean the defense, and Thank Gawd also for Tyrique the Manimal, but DePaul was awful until the last 5 minutes of the whole game. AND, finally, Thank Gawd that Leito is still such a trash coach that he couldn't see how we were not good under full court pressure defense with questionable ball handlers all over the court until the very end.

Look, I'm overjoyed for the Roadkills, but damn. In a lot of ways, when you take the hot early shooting away from both games, this team still has significant issues. I still can't see what, other than a play or two, what Jason Carter brings to the table. But man, does he get minutes. I'm graciously accepting the early points, but I still have reservations. Sorry for the realism.

Xavier is averaging 17 turnovers and 6 made threes while shooting a combined 26/44 free throws the last two games. What about that isn't repeatable? The defense has just stepped up recently, that's the only thing that changed

[bleedXblue]

Xavier is averaging 17 turnovers and 6 made threes while shooting a combined 26/44 free throws the last two games. What about that isn't repeatable? The defense has just stepped up recently, that's the only thing that changed

And rebounding

Just get this team to the tourney and I will be happy

4-5 more wins

[drudy23]

Xavier is averaging 17 turnovers and 6 made threes while shooting a combined 26/44 free throws the last two games. What about that isn't repeatable? The defense has just stepped up recently, that's the only thing that changed

The offense is much more free flowing as well. It's certainly not yet pristine, but it's much better. We've become harder to guard because of it.

There are still occassional lapses in judgment, but it's been better.

[xukeith]

The defense has seriously been very more tight and guarding shooters has been nice. The rebounding added to that is an absolute must.

Win 5 more, please!

[AviatorX]

Xavier is averaging 17 turnovers and 6 made threes while shooting a combined 26/44 free throws the last two games. What about that isn't repeatable? The defense has just stepped up recently, that's the only thing that changed

Exactly. Not to mention, exploding for huge scoring spurts (that are nowhere near sustainable) is just a thing that good teams do - not something to point to and question.

[XUBison]

I honestly can't tell if we have a sarcastic back and forth going here or what, but I'm happy to keep it up as long as X keeps winning.

Just as a reminder, the original post you're defending called for the coaching staff to instruct Goodin and Carter to aim for the square on the backboard on layups and to run more "layup drills."

Yes, just a little friendly ribbing. And no, I wasn’t defending anyone’s particular comments on backboards or layup lines. That said, i usually assume those kinds of comments are tongue-in-cheek, meant more in this case to highlight frustration with the sloppiness and poor fundamentals consistently exhibited by this team.

My poking is more to do with some people’s unwillingness to consider That coaching may play a part in the stupid way we often play. It’s like if they say it out loud, it might come true. You in particular seem quite willing to throw shade on the players for the ugly play, but you are on auto-alert to rebuke anyone who suggests that coaching might be a work in progress here. We all know Steele and staff know how to run a major college practice, because any genuine opinion to the contrary is nonsensical. But running a practice doesn’t make them great coaches. Who really knows what does ,but I don’t know how anyone can make a positive assessment of a coach’s prowess unless and until you are at least seeing growth and development, if not wins themselves.

Look, despite winning the last two, we still played like goofballs more than we should have. That said,we’re finally seeing something that resembles a product of good coaching and effective leadership. Think back to how frustrating even the wins were earlier this season. The last two haven’t felt like that, at least for the most part. I’m not sure why it takes these players and coaches until February to figure it out,But here’s to hoping the trend continues.

[XUBison]

Do people really think college basketball teams don’t practice a press break?

No.

[AviatorX]

Yes, just a little friendly ribbing. And no, I wasn’t defending anyone’s particular comments on backboards or layup lines. That said, i usually assume those kinds of comments are tongue-in-cheek, meant more in this case to highlight frustration with the sloppiness and poor fundamentals consistently exhibited by this team.

My poking is more to do with some people’s unwillingness to consider That coaching may play a part in the stupid way we often play. It’s like if they say it out loud, it might come true. You in particular seem quite willing to throw shade on the players for the ugly play, but you are on auto-alert to rebuke anyone who suggests that coaching might be a work in progress here. We all know Steele and staff know how to run a major college practice, because any genuine opinion to the contrary is nonsensical. But running a practice doesn’t make them great coaches. Who really knows what does ,but I don’t know how anyone can make a positive assessment of a coach’s prowess unless and until you are at least seeing growth and development, if not wins themselves.

Look, despite winning the last two, we still played like goofballs more than we should have. That said,we’re finally seeing something that resembles a product of good coaching and effective leadership. Think back to how frustrating even the wins were earlier this season. The last two haven’t felt like that, at least for the most part. I’m not sure why it takes these players and coaches until February to figure it out,But here’s to hoping the trend continues.

I think we're pretty much in agreement. 100% with you that there's (a lot) of room for growth as far as the coaching staff is concerned, I just feel like some of the criticism is unwarranted (and frankly, stupid). For example, I have no issue with people who want to question why Steele waited so long to shake up the lineup or why he (both seasons) waited so long before micro-managing the offense a bit more, but it's hard to resist when we have people who want him to run rec league practices, pull the redshirt off a guy like Miles, or sit the team's (far and away) best players for every mistake they make in a game.

[GIMMFD]

Look, despite winning the last two, we still played like goofballs more than we should have. That said,we’re finally seeing something that resembles a product of good coaching and effective leadership. Think back to how frustrating even the wins were earlier this season. The last two haven’t felt like that, at least for the most part. I’m not sure why it takes these players and coaches until February to figure it out,But here’s to hoping the trend continues.

I agree with the last statement the most, you always want to peak in March right? If we're on an upward trend now, it's good, a season is a lifetime and it can be incredibly frustrating especially when you have the type of leadership this X team has. Our core 4 should be more polished, and yes we make bonehead mistakes at an alarming high rate, but you're right the product has been so much more palatable. Hopefully we can keep this type of intensity going for the rest of the season, and work that into a tournament run, but when we play well you can see the talent level this team has.

Also one thing I want to mention, is that I publically mentioned that I was a bit shocked Tyrique wasn't the senior leader rallying the troops during our slide, because of how vocal of a guy he is, and the passion he plays with. This quote from the presser cemented that Rique is attempting to be the guy I know he is, and this is a public apology for questioning Tyrique Unchained. “I’ve got eight more games left in this uniform, and I’m just giving my brothers my all,” Jones said after Xavier improved to 15-8 (4-6 Big East). “I’ve only got a couple games left. I heard a commentator say, ‘Around this time, seniors step up,’ and that’s what I’m trying to do.”

[XUBison]

Xavier is averaging 17 turnovers and 6 made threes while shooting a combined 26/44 free throws the last two games. What about that isn't repeatable? The defense has just stepped up recently, that's the only thing that changed

Well, defense and rebounding, but your point stands. Steele took a lot of heat for *dodging* questions about the offense, while doubling down on the team’s need to focus on defense. The last two games have made it clear that defense will be this team’s One and only path to success.

[XUBison]

Exactly. Not to mention, exploding for huge scoring spurts (that are nowhere near sustainable) is just a thing that good teams do - not something to point to and question.

Yeah, but bad teams will also have offensive outbursts throughout a long season. There’s no reason not to point out that our offensive outbursts the past two games might simply be outliers. Certainly they are to this point.

[AviatorX]

Yeah, but bad teams will also have offensive outbursts throughout a long season. There’s no reason not to point out that our offensive outbursts the past two games might simply be outliers. Certainly they are to this point.

Yeah, I mean there's no question this is a bad offensive team and those spurts are outliers.

[XUBison]

I think we're pretty much in agreement. 100% with you that there's (a lot) of room for growth as far as the coaching staff is concerned, I just feel like some of the criticism is unwarranted (and frankly, stupid)...

This is fan banter. It’s all stupid. :)

[scoscox]

Yeah, I mean there's no question this is a bad offensive team and those spurts are outliers.

Kyky has improved our offense tho not significantly

[bleedXblue]

Kyky has improved our offense tho not significantly

KyKy is shooting over 40% in BE play. I would suggest there is a direct correlation to wins and when he scores over 10 PPG. Not sure what our record is, but I bet its pretty damn good. Also, he's getting more comfortable putting the ball on the ball on the floor and getting into the lane. That is a HUGE development for him.

[scoscox]

KyKy is shooting over 40% in BE play. I would suggest there is a direct correlation to wins and when he scores over 10 PPG. Not sure what our record is, but I bet its pretty damn good. Also, he's getting more comfortable putting the ball on the ball on the floor and getting into the lane. That is a HUGE development for him.

We're 5-0 in games he scores in double figures

[bleedXblue]

We're 5-0 in games he scores in double figures

KyKy needs at least 15 MPG and should be getting 6-7 shots a game from here on out. The kid can shoot

[xcellentx]

Yeah, but bad teams will also have offensive outbursts throughout a long season. There’s no reason not to point out that our offensive outbursts the past two games might simply be outliers. Certainly they are to this point.

I think it is really important to point out that these offensive outbursts have been directly caused by stifling defense which makes me feel that they are not as big of outliers as it might be at other times. You can see the hustle and confidence that is caused by these lockdown defensive play. Some of the 3pt shooting during those times is probably not something we can count on, but we are also dominating the boards at those times as well getting second chance points.

We will see if we can keep it up, but I wouldn't be surprised if we have similar stretches in more games this season.

[MADXSTER]

I think it is really important to point out that these offensive outbursts have been directly caused by stifling defense which makes me feel that they are not as big of outliers as it might be at other times. You can see the hustle and confidence that is caused by these lockdown defensive play. Some of the 3pt shooting during those times is probably not something we can count on, but we are also dominating the boards at those times as well getting second chance points.

We will see if we can keep it up, but I wouldn't be surprised if we have similar stretches in more games this season.

Rebounding leads to more shots. More shots leads to more points so the theory goes. More points leads to more wins. More wins leads to a much happier XavierHoops thread. I'm all for rebounding.

[X Factor]

KyKy needs at least 15 MPG and should be getting 6-7 shots a game from here on out. The kid can shoot

More like 20-25 minutes and 8-10 shots.

[Masterofreality]

KyKy is shooting over 40% in BE play. I would suggest there is a direct correlation to wins and when he scores over 10 PPG. Not sure what our record is, but I bet its pretty damn good. Also, he's getting more comfortable putting the ball on the ball on the floor and getting into the lane. That is a HUGE development for him.

Yeah, this is the most encouraging thing that is becoming consistent to me. Kyky is figuring it out, although there needs to be an awareness that in a close game, where defense is needed near the end, the staff HAS to play some offense/defense subs with Kyky & Bryce Moore. The fact that Kyky is on the floor is making a huge difference in how teams have to defend and if he and Scruggy are on the floor together it opens up the best of Paul- driving to the hoop and his spinnerama moves.

[GIMMFD]

Yeah, this is the most encouraging thing that is becoming consistent to me. Kyky is figuring it out, although there needs to be an awareness that in a close game, where defense is needed near the end, the staff HAS to play some offense/defense subs with Kyky & Bryce Moore. The fact that Kyky is on the floor is making a huge difference in how teams have to defend and if he and Scruggy are on the floor together it opens up the best of Paul- driving to the hoop and his spinnerama moves.

This is really what I think we knew would be successful the last couple years because of the skill set of our Core 4. Even last year we were hoping Welage would be knocking it down at a consistent rate, KyKy's definitely growing more comfortable into the speed of D1 ball which is something we all figured would happen sooner rather than later. Him being athletic and able to drain the deep looks has definitely correlated with better play. I wish Bryce Moore could get into rhythm behind the arc as well, I like rooting for him, plus Goodin has looked much better since coming off the bench, we'll see how this works out over the course of the next few games, but there's definitely a change to the play, not overly significant, but enough to lead to some positive vibes moving forward.