Travis Steele Is My Coach

[American X]

Drinks On Me (https://twitter.com/BarstoolReags/status/1335743347110129670)

[DexterBailey84]

I mean if Travis Steele keeps improving as a coach he might be dropping 10-15 grand in that place before it's all said and done.

[xu82]

They don’t deliver???

[JTG]

I heard this morning on the Dana and Victory pidcast during one of the last TOs Steele went postal on Freemantle and slapped him in the face. Got very vocal and was banging chairs. It wasn't a mean slap, but a c'mon let's go finish this. Free said he was surprise how hard he slapped him, but he wasn't pissed about it.

[Xville]

I heard this morning on the Dana and Victory pidcast during one of the last TOs Steele went postal on Freemantle and slapped him in the face. Got very vocal and was banging chairs. It wasn't a mean slap, but a c'mon let's go finish this. Free said he was surprise how hard he slapped him, but he wasn't pissed about it.

Good. Free needed a kick in the rear yesterday....overall he was pretty good, but his defense at times was absolutely horrible---he needs to get better with footwork on that end of the floor, and his shot selection wasn't the best. With that said, good. I think it works well within the locker room if publicly the coach has his players' backs, but still get on them in games/practices if they aren't playing to their ability.

[GoMuskies]

I heard this morning on the Dana and Victory pidcast during one of the last TOs Steele went postal on Freemantle and slapped him in the face. Got very vocal and was banging chairs. It wasn't a mean slap, but a c'mon let's go finish this. Free said he was surprise how hard he slapped him, but he wasn't pissed about it.

That sounds a bit like Gregg Marshall.

[xavierj]

That sounds a bit like Gregg Marshall.

Except it was in a good way. He and Scruggs talked about it. Like let’s fucking go bury these guys. It was to pump them up not be a dick.

[paulxu]

I'm thinking that ATM's don't disburse $2K at one time.
So, if he really took that much to BJ last night, then he was already prepped for the win!
I like that.

[Murph85]

Good. Free needed a kick in the rear yesterday....overall he was pretty good, but his defense at times was absolutely horrible---he needs to get better with footwork on that end of the floor, and his shot selection wasn't the best. With that said, good. I think it works well within the locker room if publicly the coach has his players' backs, but still get on them in games/practices if they aren't playing to their ability.

I whole heartedly agree and am glad we could win this game without Freemantle having to carry the load. I still can't shake the chills I get thinking about how good Colby Jones is going to be. 10 days in a hotel room and he come out and drives the lane and passes to open man not to mention the silky jump shot after the pump fake.

[UCGRAD4X]

AT the presser, (paraphrasing) Steele said it didn't matter to him or the team that there was no one (basically) in attendance. They are self motivating and they don't need the crowd to give them the energy. They create their own energy.

I thought, Uh oh, what's going to happen when he implores fans to attend the big games? What will his reasoning be? So he can buy the students pizza?

I'm sure he has to instill that mindset this year because it's likely to be this way for the duration....but still...

(BTW: not a criticism, just thought it was interesting)

[markchal]

AT the presser, (paraphrasing) Steele said it didn't matter to him or the team that there was no one (basically) in attendance. They are self motivating and they don't need the crowd to give them the energy. They create their own energy.

I thought, Uh oh, what's going to happen when he implores fans to attend the big games? What will his reasoning be? So he can buy the students pizza?

I'm sure he has to instill that mindset this year because it's likely to be this way for the duration....but still...

(BTW: not a criticism, just thought it was interesting)

Has he had to implore fans to attend big games? I feel like that hasn't been an issue in BE play

[UCGRAD4X]

I misspoke (misswrote, missposted...) I think he has less implored them to come to the game, but to be loud and, basically, bring the energy. He could mean to disrupt / intimidate the other team as much as providing energy for his boys.

[XUGRAD80]

IMO it shouldn’t take a crowd to get a player motivated to play hard. Having said that, I will still agree that a loud enthusiastic crowd can keep players motivated to play hard and maybe even result in efforts the players didn’t know they were capable of. I’ll also admit that it’s different for players that are used to playing from of large crowds, even as far back as junior HS. They haven’t had to learn to play hard, even when there wasn’t a big crowd. But if you look at that all time greats they had one trait in common...no matter the crowd, they were motivated to play their best. There’s an old saying that you play like you practice. Give me someone that practices hard, even when there is no crowd, and I’ll give you someone that is going to be a warrior when the lights come on.

[paulxu]

Cue the Allen Iverson outtakes.....

[D-West & PO-Z]

AT the presser, (paraphrasing) Steele said it didn't matter to him or the team that there was no one (basically) in attendance. They are self motivating and they don't need the crowd to give them the energy. They create their own energy.

I thought, Uh oh, what's going to happen when he implores fans to attend the big games? What will his reasoning be? So he can buy the students pizza?

I'm sure he has to instill that mindset this year because it's likely to be this way for the duration....but still...

(BTW: not a criticism, just thought it was interesting)

Is there some reason you think Steele will have to implore Xavier fans to attend big games? It isnt like X has an attendance problem.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I misspoke (misswrote, missposted...) I think he has less implored them to come to the game, but to be loud and, basically, bring the energy. He could mean to disrupt / intimidate the other team as much as providing energy for his boys.


Is there some reason you think Steele will have to implore Xavier fans to attend big games? It isnt like X has an attendance problem.

Nevermind, I see you addressed.

[drudy23]

Beat UC and make the tournament, those are pretty much my only expectations.

If you don't beat UC, making a tournament run makes up for it.

Beat them, but don't make the tournament, not as awesome.

Neither - very very bad year.

[XUGRAD80]

Cue the Allen Iverson outtakes.....

What a lot of people don’t know about that is that Iverson had missed practice to attend a very close friends funeral. So when he said what he said about missing “practice”, it was in comparison to missing a game, for a personal reason..in that case, a funeral. He wasn’t dissing practice, but was saying it wasn’t near as important as a friends funeral.

[paulxu]

That very good reason does not detract from the comedic impact :)

[American X]

Coach Steele and Dana's Gardens made Outkick (https://www.outkick.com/xavier-basketball-coach-celebrates-win-over-cincinnati-by-buying-2000-in-drinks-for-fans/)

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

That very good reason does not detract from the comedic impact :)

Not to mention................

That close friend whose funeral Iverson attended?

Iverson was the one who killed him.

[XUGRAD80]

That very good reason does not detract from the comedic impact :)

True dat

[D-West & PO-Z]

What a lot of people don’t know about that is that Iverson had missed practice to attend a very close friends funeral. So when he said what he said about missing “practice”, it was in comparison to missing a game, for a personal reason..in that case, a funeral. He wasn’t dissing practice, but was saying it wasn’t near as important as a friends funeral.

The rant was actually 7 months after his friend was shot and wasnt about missing any specific practice in particular but about his and Larry Brown's relationship and his critiques of Iverson's effort in practice in general. I wasnt aware of the friend who died being a factor until you brought it up but found this article from ESPN about it.

https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29143112/the-little-known-story-allen-iverson-practice-rant

[xu82]

The rant was actually 7 months after his friend was shot and wasnt about missing any specific practice in particular but about his and Larry Brown's relationship and his critiques of Iverson's effort in practice in general. I wasnt aware of the friend who died being a factor until you brought it up but found this article from ESPN about it.

https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29143112/the-little-known-story-allen-iverson-practice-rant


Interesting. Iverson said practice 22 times during the famous rant and Larry Brown coached/played at almost that many destinations (15 as a coach, plus 3 teams as a player). I hope he rented homes.

[XUGRAD80]

The rant was actually 7 months after his friend was shot and wasnt about missing any specific practice in particular but about his and Larry Brown's relationship and his critiques of Iverson's effort in practice in general. I wasnt aware of the friend who died being a factor until you brought it up but found this article from ESPN about it.

https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/29143112/the-little-known-story-allen-iverson-practice-rant

Nice find. I apologize for not remembering it correctly. I just knew that there was something about his best friend dying and him missing a practice to attend the funeral. Didn’t realize the time frame or remember the full back story.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Nice find. I apologize for not remembering it correctly. I just knew that there was something about his best friend dying and him missing a practice to attend the funeral. Didn’t realize the time frame or remember the full back story.

You knew a lot more than I did! I thought for sure it was he missed s practice for some unexcused reason. And I knew nothing of the friend who passed.

[UCGRAD4X]

Coach Steele and Dana's Gardens made Outkick (https://www.outkick.com/xavier-basketball-coach-celebrates-win-over-cincinnati-by-buying-2000-in-drinks-for-fans/)

Did he actually tell the press he was going to a "dive bar"?

How would the author know unless he's been there?

Maybe BJ's rep has spread father and wider than the Iverson story.

Again I say, Nice Pub!

[American X]

Beat UC and make the tournament, those are pretty much my only expectations.

If you don't beat UC, making a tournament run makes up for it.

Beat them, but don't make the tournament, not as awesome.

Neither - very very bad year.

I'm with you. This year, just get to .500 in the Big East and get back to the tournament. Anything on top of that is bonus.

[GoMuskies]

Did he actually tell the press he was going to a "dive bar"?

How would the author know unless he's been there?


Based on the rest of the article, it seems the author is a Dayton clown, so he likely knows of Danas.

[paulxu]

Based on the rest of the article, it seems the author is a Dayton clown, so he likely knows of Danas.

Nice use of tautology there.

[Snipe]

Drinks On Me (https://twitter.com/BarstoolReags/status/1335743347110129670)

My coach too brother, and I would not have it any other way.

Next year I am going to Danas!

[Masterofreality]

Ok. Be ready for a Long Rant.

Preface. I am not posting this now because we beat Clifton Community College. That is to be expected now. They are mid major with a mid major coach on a mid major network. I'm posting it now before the Oklahoma game because of what I saw during the Clifton game, which I've now watched 3 times. Be clear.
As all of you know, I haven't been the biggest fan of Travis Steele. There are a few reasons for that. I don't think that he and I will ever see eye to eye on what kind of offense he runs ordinarily, but that's OK. As coaches have said, the Court is a blank Canvas and there are no set places for guys to be. Every coach has his opinion on the best way to get it done, and there are hundreds of ways to get it done- from the Princeton offense to Paul Westhead's Loyola Marymount- and they can all work. I have my opinion, and it worked for me when I coached, but Travis's is the only one that counts. More concerning to me was what I had been fed by a former Xavier manager, who I know well and coached, who worked under CMack and Travis. He has now moved on to his career and has worked with NFL Coaches as well. He's seen a lot. This gentleman had been relating to me over the last few years that he had been concerned that under Travis, the level of toughness had gone out of the program. That too many players weren't being reined in and that it was a big drop off from Mack. He says that Mack is one of the best coaches he's ever seen at playing the Bad guy and disciplining guys when they needed it and when to back off when not. He has said that Travis being a 'Players Coach" was giving too much freedom, and in some cases still does.
How much of that was Steele still finding his way as a Head Coach, and having to rely on Naji and Q for leadership while stepping around their mercurial ways is hard to say. However, that being said.
What I saw, in game on Sunday was a Coach maturing. The "slap" in the face to Freemantle was actually heartening to see because that indicated a new Sheriff was in town and guys weren't going to walk their own walk anymore, and Zach took it right. In addition, Travis's use of his available assets on Sunday was superb and having the confidence to throw those guys in there, I'm convinced, wore UC down. I was not convinced in the past years that he was using his roster to their potential in any way, but there is definite improvement. I also liked the was that there was more flex in the sub patterns where guys who were playing well stayed on the court. Guys who weren't, like KyKy rode Mr. Pine. Surprised that Dionte didn't see the floor, even for a few, but that's OK. I still think that there is too much offensive freedom, as evidenced by some really stupid shots taken when X had a chance to stretch it out earlier than the end, but I'm hopeful that the IQ will come.
All in all, I'm now on the Steele train. I'm not ever going to be all in on his offense, but I did at least see a Back Door and a couple of Picks and Rolls mixed in Sunday. I think he's growing game by game into his role. I know I was a helluva lot better coach every year I did it and I'm seeing that in Travis. Let's hope that with this group of guys, Travis can develop that same level of player control/Discipline and trust that Mack was able to generate. Even if we would have lost, I would still feel the same way now. We can all hope for continued improvement in all respects from this staff.

Let the High Major games begin.

[XUBob]

MOR,
I think the biggest difference I’m seeing this year is the poise being displayed during crunch time, EKU being the exception. The decision making and execution is much better during the end of games. This might be just because of personnel but I’d like to believe Travis has something to do with it. Bradley, Toledo, UC and even EKU were games we would have probably dropped last year. I’m hoping the better decisions and fewer turnovers continue. We shall see, Paul seems to be taking this senior leadership seriously, Nate and Carter unsung heroes—hoping for a big year.

[xukeith]

I mean if Travis Steele keeps improving as a coach he might be dropping 10-15 grand in that place before it's all said and done.

Travis did mention last year was $1000 and this year he has to double it. Maybe this tab grows exponentially,

[D-West & PO-Z]

Travis did mention last year was $1000 and this year he has to double it. Maybe this tab grows exponentially,

I was in the car shortly before the game started and the xu pregame show was on a commercial and I turned to UC pregame show to hear what they were saying. Is Terry Nelson their color commentator? I think he is and that it was him but the guy who was talking mentioned Steele dropping the $1,000 at Dana's (or maybe Dan Hoard mentioned it and Nelson commented after) and he said Steele might be regretting that and wanting the money back soon if he keeps missing the tournament because he will be out of a job soon.

He thought he was so funny and clever saying that. I just thought what a doucher.

[paulxu]

Travis did mention last year was $1000 and this year he has to double it. Maybe this tab grows exponentially,

That means $4k next year. I may show up.

[JEHARDI]

It is a different game when you have multiple guys who can shoot and stretch the floor. We knew Travis could recruit and now we are seeing he can coach. Like it or not the game has changed and Travis now has a roster that can compete.

[MADXSTER]

Travis now has a team that CAN be coached.

[JEHARDI]

Travis now has a team that CAN be coached.

That certainly helps too.

[Snipe]

It's about time you blow hard. I am sure you will revert back to give us your incisive critiques as soon as we fail. At least you recognize where this train is going, and it's best to hop on board now.

Steele will be the greatest coach in Xavier history.

[Snipe]

MOR,
I think the biggest difference I’m seeing this year is the poise being displayed during crunch time, EKU being the exception. The decision making and execution is much better during the end of games. This might be just because of personnel but I’d like to believe Travis has something to do with it. Bradley, Toledo, UC and even EKU were games we would have probably dropped last year. I’m hoping the better decisions and fewer turnovers continue. We shall see, Paul seems to be taking this senior leadership seriously, Nate and Carter unsung heroes—hoping for a big year.

You are going to get a big year. And you are going to like it.

[Snipe]

That means $4k next year. I may show up.

Paul I am going to be at The Dana Gardens next year. Any real Xavier fan must make the pilgrimage. I feel a hole in the soul that I have never had a Travis Steele Crosstown Shootout Beer. This must be corrected. BJ is going to have to open up the parking lot for the overflowing masses. It is an event not to be missed. Even if you can't get a ticket to the Shootout, Danas will be the place to be.

[Snipe]

It is a different game when you have multiple guys who can shoot and stretch the floor. We knew Travis could recruit and now we are seeing he can coach. Like it or not the game has changed and Travis now has a roster that can compete.

Larkin talked to him about his philosophy and his "build". He likes shooters and high IQ basketball players. You get a transition year when you lose a coach and you lose some recruits. This is his third year. His first real class are sophs now, and we see Freemantle and Tandy contributing. Carter is contributing and is a dependable glue guy. Miles is playing and I like his future.

Then you look at the young guns this year and the other people he brought in... it is encouraging. He is reshaping Xavier Basketball into his image. Mack left partly because he couldn't beat Wright. I don't blame him. Travis isn't going to leave. He is building the perfect beast. He will be the one that takes us to the promised land. And it will be sooner rather than later. Wait until you realize just how good Colby Jones is.

This team is going to be off the hook. It is a great time to be alive and be a Xavier fan.

[Snipe]

Travis now has a team that CAN be coached.

True dat

[xudash]

Travis now has a team that CAN be coached.

I don’t believe we collectively acknowledge this enough.

HIS team.

@ full strength now.

Issues behind him.

Building his coaching chops.

[paulxu]

That means $4k next year. I may show up.

Well, he backed off from exponential, and is going with $3K next year. That's plenty.

[paulxu]

Paul I am going to be at The Dana Gardens next year. Any real Xavier fan must make the pilgrimage. I feel a hole in the soul that I have never had a Travis Steele Crosstown Shootout Beer. This must be corrected. BJ is going to have to open up the parking lot for the overflowing masses. It is an event not to be missed. Even if you can't get a ticket to the Shootout, Danas will be the place to be.

See you there :drinks::logo:

[Masterofreality]

It's about time you blow hard. I am sure you will revert back to give us your incisive critiques as soon as we fail. At least you recognize where this train is going, and it's best to hop on board now.

Steele will be the greatest coach in Xavier history.

The only time I blow hard is when I'm getting the foam off the beer in your face.
We'll discuss your Petulance later. :-)

[American X]

Honestly, a year ago, I really did not like Coach Steele sounding like Mick Cronin Lite. Now with some distance from his first two years, I will absolutely acknowledge that he was dealt a rather poor hand. His upperclassmen, Goodin and Marshall, were supposed to continue and build upon the legacy, but obviously that did not occur.

I remind myself that Miller's first two seasons were rough, ending in a bid at the end of the second by a miracle. However, that was the forge of later great teams and the continued ascendancy of the program.

Like everyone, I want Xavier basketball to be a source of excitement and joy in my life, not a perpetual misery and frustration machine. For my peace of mind, I am just going to set aside the last two seasons and focus on how good this year's team can be, along with what the future may hold.

[Xville]

Every time I see this thread pop up, I think of Terrell Owen's " that's my quarterback" line while he was weeping.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Every time I see this thread pop up, I think of Terrell Owen's " that's my quarterback" line while he was weeping.

After being upset by my Giants and Eli "future hall of famer" Manning.

[Muskeagle]

I've heard a couple times now, that Steele has sounded a little like Cronin lite. I've not heard it that way. I think he is more in the Miller/Mack mode of calling it like he sees it ("he didn't play well down the stretch" or "he made some bad decisions"). I guess it's a fine line, but Mick always seemed to get emotional/defensive in throwing his players under a bus. Miller/Mack/Steele have always struck me as calm and matter of fact about it. Maybe it is blue colored glasses that make it feel different to me, but when I hear Mick complain it always sounded like...."well we've been working on it in practice day after day, I don't know why the F he hasn't figured it out." Steele has stuck me as "he didn't do well tonight, and it's a process. For us to do well, he's going to have to get it." I don't know, maybe the difference is Cronin always seemed exasperated and petulant. Steele seems calm and understanding. Maybe they say the same shit, though. IDK.

[UCGRAD4X]

I don't know. I always appreciated Skip's philosophy about making public comments. When we win it's all about the players. When we lose, the coaches need to do better. That was Skip.

Players should and absolutely need to be held accountable...behind closed doors.

Maybe I'm just old and set in my ways.

[bjf123]

I don't know. I always appreciated Skip's philosophy about making public comments. When we win it's all about the players. When we lose, the coaches need to do better. That was Skip.

Players should and absolutely need to be held accountable...behind closed doors.

Maybe I'm just old and set in my ways.

That was one of the many things I didn’t like about Huggs. If I was in the car and a UC post game show was on, I’d listen and knew if they lost, he was going to throw his players under the bus and then back over them. It was always their fault and never his fault.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[XUGRAD80]

Maybe I hear it differently, but it seems to me that Steele praises his players as much, if not more than, as he criticizes them. He’s always talking about how such and such a player is a warrior, or how such and such a player works harder than anyone, etc.

[Xavier]

Not so much this year- but I definitely thought he sounded like Mick the last two years.

[UCGRAD4X]

There was a lot more to criticize last year and not as many of 'his player'.

[GIMMFD]

Not so much this year- but I definitely thought he sounded like Mick the last two years.

That's because we played like a shitty Mick team the last two years...

[IM4X]

Steele was in a difficult position of having new tricks he was trying to teach old dogs. A few of those old dogs were up for learning and others were like “That’s alright coach—we’re good - we know what we are doing.” The result is chaos and a team that is not on the same page and a coach left feeling like he has to do something more or risk losing his job. At that point, some coaches believe they are only left with the option of calling players out. Though, some of what happened last year Steele needed to just own and learn from to help him make better decisions across the board- including how he handles things with the media.

Personally, I like the idea of giving praise to the team as a whole as well as those individual players who listened and played their hardest and smartest when the team wins. When the team loses or plays poorly, I feel a coach should mention specific things he could have done better as a coach and then point out specific things that were not executed well on the court (but without calling out specific players). Those players will know the coach is taking about them without feeling like they got thrown under the bus.

I am liking the chemistry of this year’s team and how it matches what Steele wished last year’s team could have been: Good at listening, good at shooting, and good at hustling, good at sharing the ball.

[American X]

Steele was in a difficult position of having new tricks he was trying to teach old dogs. A few of those old dogs were up for learning and others were like “That’s alright coach—we’re good - we know what we are doing.” The result is chaos and a team that is not on the same page and a coach left feeling like he has to do something more or risk losing his job. At that point, some coaches believe they are only left with the option of calling players out. Though, some of what happened last year Steele needed to just own and learn from to help him make better decisions across the board- including how he handles things with the media.

Personally, I like the idea of giving praise to the team as a whole as well as those individual players who listened and played their hardest and smartest when the team wins. When the team loses or plays poorly, I feel a coach should mention specific things he could have done better as a coach and then point out specific things that were not executed well on the court (but without calling out specific players). Those players will know the coach is taking about them without feeling like they got thrown under the bus.

I am liking the chemistry of this year’s team and how it matches what Steele wished last year’s team could have been: Good at listening, good at shooting, and good at hustling, good at sharing the ball.

Good take, reps. We are seeing a turning of the page with the change in personnel.

[American X]

Also, credit to Coach Steele for sticking with Kunkel so that he was on the floor to hit the game-winner.

[xuwin]

Also, credit to Coach Steele for sticking with Kunkel so that he was on the floor to hit the game-winner.

That was not a hard decision.

[American X]

Bring it, Coach $3K.

[94GRAD]

Bring it, Coach $3K.

Brought

[bjf123]

Hope he had an armed escort. That’s a lot of cash to be carrying around!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[atljar]

Https://twitter.com/XuBarstool/status/1469904121373339649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

[GIMMFD]

Https://twitter.com/XuBarstool/status/1469904121373339649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

Casual rolled up stack of hundreds hahaha, I love that exchange.

[paulxu]

Paul I am going to be at The Dana Gardens next year. Any real Xavier fan must make the pilgrimage. I feel a hole in the soul that I have never had a Travis Steele Crosstown Shootout Beer. This must be corrected. BJ is going to have to open up the parking lot for the overflowing masses. It is an event not to be missed. Even if you can't get a ticket to the Shootout, Danas will be the place to be.

Snipe...hope you made it and got a taste of Steele's $$$$.

[XU 87]

Ok. Be ready for a Long Rant.

Preface. I am not posting this now because we beat Clifton Community College. That is to be expected now. They are mid major with a mid major coach on a mid major network. I'm posting it now before the Oklahoma game because of what I saw during the Clifton game, which I've now watched 3 times. Be clear.
As all of you know, I haven't been the biggest fan of Travis Steele. There are a few reasons for that. I don't think that he and I will ever see eye to eye on what kind of offense he runs ordinarily, but that's OK. As coaches have said, the Court is a blank Canvas and there are no set places for guys to be. Every coach has his opinion on the best way to get it done, and there are hundreds of ways to get it done- from the Princeton offense to Paul Westhead's Loyola Marymount- and they can all work. I have my opinion, and it worked for me when I coached, but Travis's is the only one that counts. More concerning to me was what I had been fed by a former Xavier manager, who I know well and coached, who worked under CMack and Travis. He has now moved on to his career and has worked with NFL Coaches as well. He's seen a lot. This gentleman had been relating to me over the last few years that he had been concerned that under Travis, the level of toughness had gone out of the program. That too many players weren't being reined in and that it was a big drop off from Mack. He says that Mack is one of the best coaches he's ever seen at playing the Bad guy and disciplining guys when they needed it and when to back off when not. He has said that Travis being a 'Players Coach" was giving too much freedom, and in some cases still does.
How much of that was Steele still finding his way as a Head Coach, and having to rely on Naji and Q for leadership while stepping around their mercurial ways is hard to say. However, that being said.
What I saw, in game on Sunday was a Coach maturing. The "slap" in the face to Freemantle was actually heartening to see because that indicated a new Sheriff was in town and guys weren't going to walk their own walk anymore, and Zach took it right. In addition, Travis's use of his available assets on Sunday was superb and having the confidence to throw those guys in there, I'm convinced, wore UC down. I was not convinced in the past years that he was using his roster to their potential in any way, but there is definite improvement. I also liked the was that there was more flex in the sub patterns where guys who were playing well stayed on the court. Guys who weren't, like KyKy rode Mr. Pine. Surprised that Dionte didn't see the floor, even for a few, but that's OK. I still think that there is too much offensive freedom, as evidenced by some really stupid shots taken when X had a chance to stretch it out earlier than the end, but I'm hopeful that the IQ will come.
All in all, I'm now on the Steele train. I'm not ever going to be all in on his offense, but I did at least see a Back Door and a couple of Picks and Rolls mixed in Sunday. I think he's growing game by game into his role. I know I was a helluva lot better coach every year I did it and I'm seeing that in Travis. Let's hope that with this group of guys, Travis can develop that same level of player control/Discipline and trust that Mack was able to generate. Even if we would have lost, I would still feel the same way now. We can all hope for continued improvement in all respects from this staff.

Let the High Major games begin.

It's easy to support the coach when the team is winning. I guess it's also easy to repeatedly criticize the coach, and continually call the coach a liar and incompetent among other names, when things aren't going so well. And then when the coach leaves, you will post, "I can't believe he would leave such a loyal fan base."

[xuphan]

It's easy to support the coach when the team is winning. I guess it's also easy to repeatedly criticize the coach, and continually call the coach a liar and incompetent among other names, when things aren't going so well. And then when the coach leaves, you will post, "I can't believe he would leave such a loyal fan base."

I struggle with Steele. He had done well on the recruiting trail which is great but hasn’t done much on the court. Hopefully that changes this year.

[Xville]

This team looks and feels different and could be special. I credit Steele for going out and getting what this team needed desperately last year in nunge, and I’m so happy to see the player he has been and can continue to be. I’m cautiously optimistic but Steele gets paid the big bucks to excel during big East play and that’s where we shall see if this year is indeed different. Based on what I’m seeing in the non-con, I think this is the best the big East has been top to bottom since the split and x joined, so any success is certainly going to be earned.

[Masterofreality]

It's easy to support the coach when the team is winning. I guess it's also easy to repeatedly criticize the coach, and continually call the coach a liar and incompetent among other names, when things aren't going so well. And then when the coach leaves, you will post, "I can't believe he would leave such a loyal fan base."

I remind you of blowing a 19 point lead in the Butler MSG game last year. That was incompetent. Xavier was 11-2 after 13 games last year too and what happened?
SucKS is a mid major buy game now. Wesley couldn’t even figure out how to feed the middle on a zone. I was there and very happy, but…
Let’s see how this plays out. And, yes. There have been many times in the past where Steele was deceptive in his answers and avoided comment in tough times.
That being said, there are numerous signs that in his fourth year, he finally has “gotten it”. Whether that is because he studied up in the off-season, has better chemistry on his total staff with Ben Johnson gone-who must have been a decent coach under the radar because he got a big time Head Coaching job, or whatever. His sub patterns seem better, and they shot less 3’s vs SucKS.
For Xavier’s sake, I hope he has gotten it. It makes life a lot easier.
I’ll be in New York. Hope we last more than one game.

[IM4X]

Props to Coach Steele for landing another incredibly “big” transfer. First it was Zach and now it is Jack. There was nothing more crucially needed by this team than a big man who could be counted on to score a lot in the paint as well as be able to block and defend well (the solid 3 point shooting and good FT shooting doesn’t hurt either).

Not being able to replace Carter with such a player was the one thing that I was most concerned about this year. Then Steele got Nunge. Adding him has made the team complete and dangerous in so many ways. Bravo coach Steele.

[Masterofreality]

Props to Coach Steele for landing another incredibly “big” transfer. First it was Zach and now it is Jack. There was nothing more crucially needed by this team than a big man who could be counted on to score a lot in the paint as well as be able to block and defend well (the solid 3 point shooting and good FT shooting doesn’t hurt either).

Not being able to replace Carter with such a player was the one thing that I was most concerned about this year. Then Steele got Nunge. Adding him has made the team complete and dangerous in so many ways. Bravo coach Steele.

Absolutely! Steele running the play to get Jack 31 on a stuff then getting him out to a Standing O was perfect.

[bleedXblue]

I have been critical of Steele primarily for his lack of being able to make offensive adjustments when needed. I think the BE is going to be a bear this year. I will reserve judgement until the EOY.

He does deserve props for where we are so far this year. Only dropping one game with your leading scorer out has been huge. He has the talent to win big this year. Hoping it all starts to come together for him.

[markchal]

Seems weird for people to dredge this debate up when the team is doing well, like that makes the last three irrelevant (finishing well...much diff story).

Anyone wasting their screen time here is a HUGE X fan and we all want Steele to be fabulously successful here. I think that's the most important thing to remember. Second-most important would be to just enjoy the season we're having, instead of finding things to be mad about or bummer games/stretches to relive.

[Strange Brew]

He can coach the team on Weds. He’s earned that. :)

[Xavier]

That being said, there are numerous signs that in his fourth year, he finally has “gotten it”. Whether that is because he studied up in the off-season, has better chemistry on his total staff with Ben Johnson gone-who must have been a decent coach under the radar because he got a big time Head Coaching job, or whatever. His sub patterns seem better, and they shot less 3’s vs SucKS.
.

I think the obvious answer is he spent the summer combing over the message board and adjusted his coaching accordingly

[Masterofreality]

I think the obvious answer is he spent the summer combing over the message board and adjusted his coaching accordingly

Smartest thing he ever did!!!

[GoMuskies]

Smartest thing he ever did!!!

I've seen his wife, so I'm going to have to beg to differ!

[Masterofreality]

I've seen his wife, so I'm going to have to beg to differ!

This is actually truth. I stand corrected! (For those of you who think I’m never wrong)

[xukeith]

I have always been a "lets support our coach and players" guy. BUT, last season vs. Providence, I was extremely disappointed. This year I clearly see a different coach. I see teh players buy in to a system and actually understand the strengths and weaknesses of each other.

I know Travis has a ton of coach speak, but his players buy into it and do not go off in their own world. They like to play together.

[xudash]

I have always been a "lets support our coach and players" guy. BUT, last season vs. Providence, I was extremely disappointed. This year I clearly see a different coach. I see teh players buy in to a system and actually understand the strengths and weaknesses of each other.

I know Travis has a ton of coach speak, but his players buy into it and do not go off in their own world. They like to play together.

Yes, we're close to entering BE play and it will be choppy sailing, but there is no way in hell any Xavier fan should be looking at what they have seen so far and conclude that Travis Steele hasn't improved as a coach.

Frankly, God willing as long as we avoid serious injuries, this group, playing together and for each other as they do, with a coach they respect and who appears to have figured out in-game strategy, I believe that "2-percent thingy" could be achieved this year with the right match-ups and luck in the NCAAT.

I attended the Ohio State game. I watched the UC game on TV. Simply BIG TIME in every regard. It has been a long road from 3.2 Hudy beer and Schmidt Memorial Fieldhouse to all this. This program will get there. I have no doubt.

[Strange Brew]

Yes, we're close to entering BE play and it will be choppy sailing, but there is no way in hell any Xavier fan should be looking at what they have seen so far and conclude that Travis Steele hasn't improved as a coach.

Frankly, God willing as long as we avoid serious injuries, this group, playing together and for each other as they do, with a coach they respect and who appears to have figured out in-game strategy, I believe that "2-percent thingy" could be achieved this year with the right match-ups and luck in the NCAAT.

I attended the Ohio State game. I watched the UC game on TV. Simply BIG TIME in every regard. It has been a long road from 3.2 Hudy beer and Schmidt Memorial Fieldhouse to all this. This program will get there. I have no doubt.

I saw zone in the last few games so that's growth or something.

[JTG]

I saw zone in the last few games so that's growth or something.

Employing multiple defenses, including zone, to screw with your opponent, is coaching growth.

[hoopster68]

Yes, we're close to entering BE play and it will be choppy sailing, but there is no way in hell any Xavier fan should be looking at what they have seen so far and conclude that Travis Steele hasn't improved as a coach.

Frankly, God willing as long as we avoid serious injuries, this group, playing together and for each other as they do, with a coach they respect and who appears to have figured out in-game strategy, I believe that "2-percent thingy" could be achieved this year with the right match-ups and luck in the NCAAT.

I attended the Ohio State game. I watched the UC game on TV. Simply BIG TIME in every regard. It has been a long road from 3.2 Hudy beer and Schmidt Memorial Fieldhouse to all this. This program will get there. I have no doubt.

From 3.2% Hudy, & a smoky haze inside Schmidt by half-time to a spectacular Cintas & this team, it has been a helluva ride. Go Muskies!

[xu82]

From 3.2% Hudy, & a smoky haze inside Schmidt by half-time to a spectacular Cintas & this team, it has been a helluva ride. Go Muskies!

And that Smokey haze came from…….?

Never mind, that was rhetorical if you were there in my days.

[noteggs]

From 3.2% Hudy, & a smoky haze inside Schmidt by half-time to a spectacular Cintas & this team, it has been a helluva ride. Go Muskies!

When you mentioned smokey haze, thought you were talking about the gardens. Remember a game you could barely see the floor because steam was coming from ice rink under the court.

[Strange Brew]

And that Smokey haze came from…….?

Never mind, that was rhetorical if you were there in my days.

I oddly miss the smell and poor lighting at the Gardens. It was like inviting opponents to the Thunderdome!

[xu 89]

I oddly miss the smell and poor lighting at the Gardens. It was like inviting opponents to the Thunderdome!

Loved the Gardens....stale beer, nasty bathrooms, and uncomfortable seats but to watch a XU game there was awesome.

[xu82]

Loved the Gardens....stale beer, nasty bathrooms, and uncomfortable seats but to watch a XU game there was awesome.

It’s always a bit special when your feet stick to the floor. That adds “character”.

Those were cool times, as I had no reference points.


.


.

[nuts4xu]

Paul I am going to be at The Dana Gardens next year. Any real Xavier fan must make the pilgrimage.

Were you there? Did you drink the free beer?

Are you a "real Xavier fan"?

[nuts4xu]

Props to Coach Steele for landing another incredibly “big” transfer. First it was Zach and now it is Jack. .

Zach Freemantle is not a transfer, FYI.

[Xville]

Zach Freemantle is not a transfer, FYI.

I think he was referring to the one and only hanky mcspanky.

[atljar]

Zach Freemantle is not a transfer, FYI.

Dont feel bad, that was my first thought too

[paulxu]

The Tappet Brothers.

[xuwin]

I saw zone in the last few games so that's growth or something.

The zone is a result of having the personnel to effectively execute it which they didn't have before.

[muskiefan82]

We will know very quickly where X is after Marquette, @Villanova, and UConn. That is for sure.

[IM4X]

Dont feel bad, that was my first thought too


I think he was referring to the one and only hanky mcspanky.

Yes sir. Just wish he’d been given an extra year like the players this season. What he might have done during that extra year. Man was he fun watch on the court.

[Xville]

We will know very quickly where X is after Marquette, @Villanova, and UConn. That is for sure.

True!

0-3 panic
1-2 not bad since two of those teams are predicted to be at the worst top three in the league
2-1 I don’t think we will need to worry about the bubble
3-0 can we get a 1 seed?

The above is a lot of hyperbole, but I think you are spot on that we will know quickly where we stand within the conference.

[JTG]

We will know very quickly where X is after Marquette, @Villanova, and UConn. That is for sure.

Yeah, who did we piss off in the Big East scheduling office ?

[bjf123]

True!

0-3 panic
1-2 not bad since two of those teams are predicted to be at the worst top three in the league
2-1 I don’t think we will need to worry about the bubble
3-0 can we get a 1 seed?

The above is a lot of hyperbole, but I think you are spot on that we will know quickly where we stand within the conference.

You left one thing out of the 0-3 panic listing. There will also be multiple posts calling for Steele’s head on a silver platter.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[D-West & PO-Z]

We have to win home league games in the BE. Have to. We should go 2-1. Those are 3 tough teams but if we want to be a top 3 BE team this year, we have to win the ones at home. Winning on the road is always tough but seems like it will be especially so this year.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

We will know very quickly where X is after Marquette, @Villanova, and UConn. That is for sure.

Roger that. I sorta want to find out how good we really are. I sorta don't.

[XUBison]

Roger that. I sorta want to find out how good we really are. I sorta don't.

Tear off the band-aid. Let’s go!

[UCGRAD4X]

One more tune-up tonight.

Agenda:
- Get a good workout for the top 6/7
- allow Zack to shake off any remaining rust
- stay healthy
- get ahead and get in the end of the bench
- unshackle the Jellyroll Monster!

[American X]

Coach $3K is the greatest halftime adjustment coach in Xavier history.

[XU 23]

Lulled Creighton into a false sense of security. Truly brilliant coaching

[xuphan]

Lulled Creighton into a false sense of security. Truly brilliant coaching

Best coach in the Tri-State area!

[UCGRAD4X]

Best coach in the Tri-State area!

Dufenshmurtz coachenator!

[Xuperman]

Aluminum???? How about VALYRIAN STEELE!!!!

[xuphan]

Aluminum???? How about VALYRIAN STEELE!!!!

This man wins some of the ugliest games I have seen. Hopefully we can Steele a couple of wins in the NCAA tournament this year.

[Xville]

barely beat a terrible butler team at home..yay. This coaching staff still sucks. His great adjustment at Creighton...hey guys make some 3s...great adjustment.

Heading toward a 10-9, 20-10 record. Better than it has been, barely. Probably will get a five year extension so i guess i should get used to it.

[bleedXblue]

I see no improvement again..........less the 2nd half at Creighton we have looked like dung the last 4-5 games.

[Xville]

Saturday is the last easy game before the February schedule gets absolutely brutal. The 7 games after DePaul is going to be real interesting

[bleedXblue]

Saturday is the last easy game before the February schedule gets absolutely brutal. The 7 games after DePaul is going to be real interesting

DePaul isn't so easy anymore. Especially when you struggle to score and allow repeated layups defensively.

[Xville]

DePaul isn't so easy anymore. Especially when you struggle to score and allow repeated layups defensively.

yeah i guess i should have put easy in quotation marks lol

[American X]

Saturday is the last easy game before the February schedule gets absolutely brutal. The 7 games after DePaul is going to be real interesting

Xavier did everything they could to lose at DePaul and only won through either divine or diabolical intervention. I truly hope that Saturday is an easy game, rather than the usual dental surgery, but that is a big assumption.

[Xavier]

The good part about last night was we looked like garbage and had no problem winning. That typically is a good sign. Xville is right we will see what they are made of soon.

Xavier is on pace to be a 5/6 seed. A 4 seed is realistically in reach….I’d bet on landing between 7-10 seed. I’ll let it play out. People were freaking out over Marquette road loss as they just swept Villanova.

[xuphan]

I see no improvement again..........less the 2nd half at Creighton we have looked like dung the last 4-5 games.

Maybe Steele is holding the guys back a bit and will unleash them during the NCAA tournament.

[XUBANDGRAD]

The good part about last night was we looked like garbage and had no problem winning. That typically is a good sign. Xville is right we will see what they are made of soon.

Xavier is on pace to be a 5/6 seed. A 4 seed is realistically in reach….I’d bet on landing between 7-10 seed. I’ll let it play out. People were freaking out over Marquette road loss as they just swept Villanova.

Had no problem winning? How about getting two very questionable technicals on butler which was the difference in the game. Wouldn’t call that no problem.

[BigMoeMusketeer]

To me, the key to the end of season stretch are the 3 homes games vs UCONN, St. John's and Seton Hall. I'm giving us home wins vs DePaul and Georgetown. If we win the three I identified as "key", we win at least 11 games in the league no matter what. Throw in a roadie or two at Seton Hall, UCONN, Providence (highly unlikely) and the Johnnies, and we could remain in good stead. However, lose 1 or 2 of those key home games, you run the risk of falling much further down the Big East and NET standings / rankings than you'd like, and then everything gets harder.

2/11/22
2/16/22
2/26/22

HUGE games.

[Xavier]

They were up 13 points with 5 minutes left. 11 points with 2 minutes left. And most of the second half up by 8-12 points. I was never concerned X would lose with 10 minutes left. That’s pretty comfortable win.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Had no problem winning? How about getting two very questionable technicals on butler which was the difference in the game. Wouldn’t call that no problem.

C'mon man, despite the final score there was no point in the game where I was legit afraid we weren't going to win. And I am always convinced we are going to blow it! It was a 2 point win based on score but as non concerning easy a 2 point win as there has ever been.

[markchal]

yeah that game was never in doubt. If we don't shoot terribly from FT or 3, we destroy them.

I've had my problems with Steele and would've liked to see us run them out of the gym, considering the shooting woes and only getting one half from Scruggs, I'm fine with last night. We had a pretty good lead most of the second half and even when they chipped away at the end, they never seriously threatened.

Considering where we've been lately, it was nice to have one win that felt like a sure thing almost the entire game.

[Smails]

Had no problem winning? How about getting two very questionable technicals on butler which was the difference in the game. Wouldn’t call that no problem.

Questionable technicals? If you smack the ball out of a player's hand in anger during a dead ball and the ref is 1 foot away...it's a technical every time

[bjf123]

Questionable technicals? If you smack the ball out of a player's hand in anger during a dead ball and the ref is 1 foot away...it's a technical every time

I think if the player had caught the ball, he would have been fine. When you slam it on the floor and it bounces up over everyone’s head, you’re getting T’d up every time.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[xuphan]

Had no problem winning? How about getting two very questionable technicals on butler which was the difference in the game. Wouldn’t call that no problem.

We won the game. Time to move on and support our boys! It is frustrating that we are playing ugly basketball but right now it is winning basketball.

[Xuperman]

We won the game. Time to move on and support our boys!

You don't have to spend much time on this board to see that some here don't share that sentiment. I'm thinking a select few, flopped on the floor kickin' and Screamin' or held their breath when not getting what they wanted as a kid.

[webxu]

Growing up I was always taught, doesn't matter if you win by 1 or 100 its still counts as a win.

[JTG]

Had no problem winning? How about getting two very questionable technicals on butler which was the difference in the game. Wouldn’t call that no problem.

For all the times we've been hosed at Hinkle, I have no problem with them being dealt some iffy technical fouls.

[American X]

Growing up I was always taught, doesn't matter if you win by 1 or 100 its still counts as a win.

That math checks out.

Still, if they play like that against better teams, we will not win by 1 or 100.

[xukeith]

barely beat a terrible butler team at home..yay. This coaching staff still sucks. His great adjustment at Creighton...hey guys make some 3s...great adjustment.

Heading toward a 10-9, 20-10 record. Better than it has been, barely. Probably will get a five year extension so i guess i should get used to it.

Remember X in 2018?
That high performing 1 seeded team beat DePaul twice home and away by a combined 5 points. DePaul was 99th in NET. X was top 10. No basketball teams blow every subpar teams out every game.

Heck, in 2004 on the "RUN" Matta lost twice to a horrible Duquesne team.

It happens.
X crushed Creighton last year. Should Creighton fans yell and demand a coaching change?
We all want X to win every single game. Some expectations of fans are simply delusional.

[UCGRAD4X]

It certainly is a legitimate point in considering concepts such as "eye test" or "style points" in ranking, ratings and seeding. The optics of a 2 point win at home against a bottom-feeder may give some pause.

The optics of a loss would have been disastrous for sure. We're looking for signs of improvement than trend toward the top of the conference and the best placement in the NCAAs, which depends on more than just wins and losses.

[Xville]

Remember X in 2018?
That high performing 1 seeded team beat DePaul twice home and away by a combined 5 points. DePaul was 99th in NET. X was top 10. No basketball teams blow every subpar teams out every game.

Heck, in 2004 on the "RUN" Matta lost twice to a horrible Duquesne team.

It happens.
X crushed Creighton last year. Should Creighton fans yell and demand a coaching change?
We all want X to win every single game. Some expectations of fans are simply delusional.

My expectations aren’t delusional..my expectations are that the team improves game over game, and year over year if the coaching staff is the same…not looks the same or worse as they did at the beginning of the year.

[UCGRAD4X]

Interesting quote from Trav, especially the last part:

"It's been bad quick shots that have cost us That was better tonight, but we gotta finish a lot better. That's on me. We will watch a ton of tape and this type of thing will never happen again!!"

[XUGRAD80]

My expectations aren’t delusional..my expectations are that the team improves game over game, and year over year if the coaching staff is the same…not looks the same or worse as they did at the beginning of the year.

Your expectations ARE delusional….IF you expect EVERY game to be better than the last one, and every season to be better than the last one. It doesn’t work out that way for ANY team or program. There are ups and downs for every player, every team, every program. It’s never a solid upwards climb. Xavier has had some down years in its climb from independent to the Big East. It has certainly lost some games along the way that we all thought it would win. There have been players that didn’t work out, and even the ones that became great had some off nights. These are still just human beings and mostly kids we are talking about. You need look no further than across the River at Kentucky to see that even for the Blue Bloods this is true.

[Xville]

Your expectations ARE delusional….IF you expect EVERY game to be better than the last one, and every season to be better than the last one. It doesn’t work out that way for ANY team or program. There are ups and downs for every player, every team, every program. It’s never a solid upwards climb. Xavier has had some down years in its climb from independent to the Big East. It has certainly lost some games along the way that we all thought it would win. There have been players that didn’t work out, and even the ones that became great had some off nights. These are still just human beings and mostly kids we are talking about. You need look no further than across the River at Kentucky to see that even for the Blue Bloods this is true.

Sorry I didn’t mean every single game better than the last I meant over the longer haul, and I disagree year over year. There are going to be one offs of course but over a course of 3 or 4 years, things should be moving in a very positive direction.

Comparing Kentucky to x is silly when Kentucky turns their roster over every single year

[Xuperman]

Sorry I didn’t mean every single game better than the last I meant over the longer haul, and I disagree year over year. There are going to be one offs of course but over a course of 3 or 4 years, things should be moving in a very positive direction.

Comparing Kentucky to x is silly when Kentucky turns their roster over every single year

Ok, how about Michigan, Virginia, Syracuse, Louisville, WVU etc. Are you saying you hold Xavier to a higher standard than these perennials?

[drudy23]

Why are people surprised that people think we haven't played up to expectations for the last 3 years? We haven't played up to expectations.

That's pretty obvious. Bare minimum expectation for this year is a tournament bid. If we lose in round one, and end up near the middle of the Big East again, that's probably still below expectations for this program.

There's no reason Xavier can't be perennial top 1/4th of this conference. Of course it won't happen every single year, but it's been 3.5 years of middle meddling. That should be below everyone's expectations based on the vision we've heard (and frankly seen) over the last 30 years.

[Xville]

Ok, how about Michigan, Virginia, Syracuse, Louisville, WVU etc. Are you saying you hold Xavier to a higher standard than these perennials?

What do those schools have to do with any of this? I don't care what they do, I care what X does...every program is going to have those one offs and bad coaching hires....has X finally made a bad one?

One other thing...im really sick of people dumbing down expectations just because the program is in a power five conference now. I think that's a complete loser mentality. If we had that kind of mentality 10-20 years ago, X wouldn't be where it is today.

[XUGRAD80]

Uk doesn't work for you? Ok, then how about North Carolina?

2021-22 ACC 16 6 .727 8 3 .727 12.80 6.25 78.5 72.0 19 18 Hubert Davis (16-6)


2020-21 ACC 18 11 .621 10 6 .625 14.79 9.52 75.2 69.9 16 14 Lost First Round 8 Roy Williams (18-11)
2019-20 ACC 14 19 .424 6 14 .300 9.45 10.05 72.2 72.8 9 5 Roy Williams (14-19)
2018-19 ACC 29 7 .806 16 2 .889 23.94 11.35 85.8 73.2 8 3 3 Lost Regional Semifinal 1 Roy Williams (29-7)
2017-18 ACC 26 11 .703 11 7 .611 20.07 11.78 81.6 73.3 9 5 10 Lost Second Round 2 Roy Williams (26-11)
2016-17 ACC 33 7 .825 14 4 .778 24.84 11.76 84.4 70.6 6 3 6 Won National Final 1 Roy Williams (33-7)
2015-16 ACC 33 7 .825 14 4 .778 23.44 10.69 82.8 70.0 1 1 3 Lost National Final 1 Roy Williams (33-7)
2014-15 ACC 26 12 .684 11 7 .611 20.63 11.76 77.7 68.8 6 5 15 Lost Regional Semifinal 4 Roy Williams (26-12)
2013-14 ACC 24 10 .706 13 5 .722 15.24 8.42 76.6 69.8 12 12 19 Lost Third Round 6 Roy Williams (24-10)
2012-13 ACC 25 11 .694 12 6 .667 14.57 8.06 76.7 69.2 11 9 Lost Third Round 8 Roy Williams (25-11)

See, I get that you WANT to see improvement EVERY year. I just don't think that it is REASONABLE to EXPECT it to ACTUALLY happen that way.

Is Villanova as good this year as they have been? I think that everyone would agree that they aren't. Duke certainly has had a couple of bad years mixed in with all the good. So has Michigan State, UCLA, Kansas, and anyone else you would care to name. That's the nature of the beast and reasonable and knowledgeable fans understand that. To expect X to be the exception to the rule is....delusional.

[xuwillie]

Why are people surprised that people think we haven't played up to expectations for the last 3 years? We haven't played up to expectations.

That's pretty obvious. Bare minimum expectation for this year is a tournament bid. If we lose in round one, and end up near the middle of the Big East again, that's probably still below expectations for this program.

There's no reason Xavier can't be perennial top 1/4th of this conference. Of course it won't happen every single year, but it's been 3.5 years of middle meddling. That should be below everyone's expectations based on the vision we've heard (and frankly seen) over the last 30 years.


This 100%. Some fans have become super soft or related to Steele. These last 3+ years have been pretty painful and I need to see a little more this year before I think we are headed in the right direction.

[XUGRAD80]

Why are people surprised that people think we haven't played up to expectations for the last 3 years? We haven't played up to expectations.

That's pretty obvious. Bare minimum expectation for this year is a tournament bid. If we lose in round one, and end up near the middle of the Big East again, that's probably still below expectations for this program.

There's no reason Xavier can't be perennial top 1/4th of this conference. Of course it won't happen every single year, but it's been 3.5 years of middle meddling. That should be below everyone's expectations based on the vision we've heard (and frankly seen) over the last 30 years.

Expectations? or Hopes, Desires, Wants? There is a difference between the two.

I don't think that there is a fan here that doesn't hope, desire, and want X to be a top 25 team EVERY year. Make the Tournament EVERY year. Be a threat to win it all EVERY year.

BUT...is that a reasonable expectation? Does any really EXPECT that to happen? If so, Why? They have never been ANY of those things on a consistent basis. They have never been a final 4 team. From the sounds of all of the moaning and bitchin' they don't have a coach worth 2 cents. They certainly don't have players that have consistently played up to the expectations some have placed on them. They haven't been able to beat Villanova on a consistent basis, no matter who the X coach or who the X players have been.

For me, until they accomplish that more than once every 5-10 years, it will not be something I can EXPECT to happen. I expect them to be what they have historically been. Nothing more and nothing less. To fail to take into account that the conference competition is so much better now than it was in the A-10 is blindness. Not only that, but if you want to look at just their record in the BE since joining it, you'd have to see that they have been .500 or below much more often than they have been above it. In fact, in only 3 of the 8 seasons before this one has the record been over .500. They have had 3 records of .500 and 2 below .500. So, based on their actual history, it is much more reasonable to EXPECT them to be a .500 or sub .500 team in conference, than to EXPECT them to be over .500.

[Xville]

Why are people surprised that people think we haven't played up to expectations for the last 3 years? We haven't played up to expectations.

That's pretty obvious. Bare minimum expectation for this year is a tournament bid. If we lose in round one, and end up near the middle of the Big East again, that's probably still below expectations for this program.

There's no reason Xavier can't be perennial top 1/4th of this conference. Of course it won't happen every single year, but it's been 3.5 years of middle meddling. That should be below everyone's expectations based on the vision we've heard (and frankly seen) over the last 30 years.

10000%. I don’t care what uk, unc or any other blue blood has done. X doesn’t run their program like them and probably never will so compare them to x doesn’t compute. I expect Xavier to be what Villanova has been to this conference for over a decade, and a program like gonzaga.

This soft ass mentality of having to accept well we are in a power conference now is bs. I don’t expect a nc every year but what I do expect is a top 5 finish almost every year in conference with a possible outlier here and there and an easy tourney bid almost every year. That was the expectation at x for thrifty years, now just because we have a soft ass coach and in a big boy conference our mindset needs to change? F that

[drudy23]

Expectations? or Hopes, Desires, Wants? There is a difference between the two.

I don't think that there is a fan here that doesn't hope, desire, and want X to be a top 25 team EVERY year. Make the Tournament EVERY year. Be a threat to win it all EVERY year.

BUT...is that a reasonable expectation? Does any really EXPECT that to happen? If so, Why? They have never been ANY of those things on a consistent basis. They have never been a final 4 team. From the sounds of all of the moaning and bitchin' they don't have a coach worth 2 cents. They certainly don't have players that have consistently played up to the expectations some have placed on them. They haven't been able to beat Villanova on a consistent basis, no matter who the X coach or who the X players have been.

For me, until they accomplish that more than once every 5-10 years, it will not be something I can EXPECT to happen. I expect them to be what they have historically been. Nothing more and nothing less. To fail to take into account that the conference competition is so much better now than it was in the A-10 is blindness. Not only that, but if you want to look at just their record in the BE since joining it, you'd have to see that they have been .500 or below much more often than they have been above it. In fact, in only 3 of the 8 seasons before this one has the record been over .500. They have had 3 records of .500 and 2 below .500. So, based on their actual history, it is much more reasonable to EXPECT them to be a .500 or sub .500 team in conference, than to EXPECT them to be over .500.

Well the administration and the coaching staff has told us that it's their expectation, so why shouldn't it be ours?

[Xville]

Expectations? or Hopes, Desires, Wants? There is a difference between the two.

I don't think that there is a fan here that doesn't hope, desire, and want X to be a top 25 team EVERY year. Make the Tournament EVERY year. Be a threat to win it all EVERY year.

BUT...is that a reasonable expectation? Does any really EXPECT that to happen? If so, Why? They have never been ANY of those things on a consistent basis. They have never been a final 4 team. From the sounds of all of the moaning and bitchin' they don't have a coach worth 2 cents. They certainly don't have players that have consistently played up to the expectations some have placed on them. They haven't been able to beat Villanova on a consistent basis, no matter who the X coach or who the X players have been.

For me, until they accomplish that more than once every 5-10 years, it will not be something I can EXPECT to happen. I expect them to be what they have historically been. Nothing more and nothing less. To fail to take into account that the conference competition is so much better now than it was in the A-10 is blindness. Not only that, but if you want to look at just their record in the BE since joining it, you'd have to see that they have been .500 or below much more often than they have been above it. In fact, in only 3 of the 8 seasons before this one has the record been over .500. They have had 3 records of .500 and 2 below .500. So, based on their actual history, it is much more reasonable to EXPECT them to be a .500 or sub .500 team in conference, than to EXPECT them to be over .500.

I really doubt that anyone associated with x’s program is in line with that “success” and if it is, then we should have stayed in the a10, or get a new administration.expectations should be top 5 every year in this conference and an easy tourney bid. That’s what we hear constantly from the administration and the coaching staff

If this staff isn’t able to do that, then get a new staff. This dumbing down of expectations is in my opinion ridiculous.

[drudy23]

Expectations? or Hopes, Desires, Wants? There is a difference between the two.

I don't think that there is a fan here that doesn't hope, desire, and want X to be a top 25 team EVERY year. Make the Tournament EVERY year. Be a threat to win it all EVERY year.

BUT...is that a reasonable expectation? Does any really EXPECT that to happen? If so, Why? They have never been ANY of those things on a consistent basis. They have never been a final 4 team. From the sounds of all of the moaning and bitchin' they don't have a coach worth 2 cents. They certainly don't have players that have consistently played up to the expectations some have placed on them. They haven't been able to beat Villanova on a consistent basis, no matter who the X coach or who the X players have been.

For me, until they accomplish that more than once every 5-10 years, it will not be something I can EXPECT to happen. I expect them to be what they have historically been. Nothing more and nothing less. To fail to take into account that the conference competition is so much better now than it was in the A-10 is blindness. Not only that, but if you want to look at just their record in the BE since joining it, you'd have to see that they have been .500 or below much more often than they have been above it. In fact, in only 3 of the 8 seasons before this one has the record been over .500. They have had 3 records of .500 and 2 below .500. So, based on their actual history, it is much more reasonable to EXPECT them to be a .500 or sub .500 team in conference, than to EXPECT them to be over .500.

Xavier has never made a Final Four, and I never felt the prior teams or administration had let us down. They've been on the cusp 3 times, and I always felt a sense of pride when they lost, even when Gonzaga and UCLA blew them out. Xavier basketball was the best thing going in this city for the last 20 years, to be honest.

I don't "expect" a national championship, I know it will be very hard to ever do that at Xavier - I'm realistic. But the last 3 years have been the most disappointing Xavier seasons in my lifetime (I'm 45), and it's not really close. It feels like a true identity crisis.

Let's see how we finish this year. Steele has to break through either with top end BE finishes, or getting to at least a Sweet 16.

[drudy23]

Are your expectations for the program in line with your last paragraph? I really doubt that anyone associated with x’s program is in line with that “success” and if it is, then we should have stayed in the a10, or get a new administration.

I was also scratching my head with that last paragraph - if that's the case, we might as well just be DePaul.

[Xville]

Btw what I expect from this team and from Steele are not what my expectations for the program are. That’s the disconnect and that’s where my issue is, I’d hope the admin feel the same way… now if the team finishes strong these last 9 games and the team comfortably gets in and wins a game or two, then I’d evaluate again, and feel better about the direction of the program under Steele

[bleedXblue]

I will never understand the thought process of being happy with what you have and not having high expectations. That is a losers attitude. Keep that to yourself.

[XUGRAD80]

10000%. I don’t care what uk, unc or any other blue blood has done. X doesn’t run their program like them and probably never will so compare them to x doesn’t compute. I expect Xavier to be what Villanova has been to this conference for over a decade, and a program like gonzaga.

This soft ass mentality of having to accept well we are in a power conference now is bs. I don’t expect a nc every year but what I do expect is a top 5 finish almost every year in conference with a possible outlier here and there and an easy tourney bid almost every year. That was the expectation at x for thrifty years, now just because we have a soft ass coach and in a big boy conference our mindset needs to change? F that

Maybe if you could give us actual REASONS for those expectations…..

[XUGRAD80]

I will never understand the thought process of being happy with what you have and not having high expectations. That is a losers attitude. Keep that to yourself.

Who said I was HAPPY? Who said that I didn’t have high GOALS for the program?

But with the current coach and current players they have….my expectations do not match my goals.

[Xville]

Maybe if you could give us actual REASONS for those expectations…..

That’s what we have been told my the staff and the administration.

If that’s not our expectations, why are we in the big East, why did x and continues to put in a ridiculous amount of time and money into a basketball program? Why did we build an on campus arena that even being 20+ years old is second to none?

There is a difference between expect and expectations in regards to this particular team and coach vs the program.

[Xville]

Who said I was HAPPY? Who said that I didn’t have high GOALS for the program?

But with the current coach and current players they have….my expectations do not match my goals.

Then what you expect from this staff and team is not what the expectations you have for the program. Is that correct? If so, we are on the same page, and that’s why at this time where we stand today, I have a real issue with this coaching staff and I hope the admin feels the same way.

[XUGRAD80]

I differentiate between Goals and Expectations. You use the words to mean the same.

I don’t “expect” to keep doing the same things and then get different results.

Coming into the season I didn’t “expect” this team to do as well as they have done. I “expected” the team to be .500 in the BE at best. I didn’t “expect” them to beat OSU. I didn’t “expect” them to challenge for the conference championship.

But the “goal” should be to win EVERY game. The “goal” should be to get the program to that point where they challenge for the conference championship every year.

My goals for the program are for it to improve. But until I see that improvement, I don’t Expect the Results to be much different than they have been. I couldn’t see how having the roster remain virtually intact was going to lead to a huge change in the product. Xavier, under Steele, has not had a good history of having players develop. So I never expected the improvement that others did.

That’s not a “loser” mentality. It’s a “realistic” mentality.

[Xavier]

10000%. I don’t care what uk, unc or any other blue blood has done. X doesn’t run their program like them and probably never will so compare them to x doesn’t compute. I expect Xavier to be what Villanova has been to this conference for over a decade, and a program like gonzaga.

Im all for high expectations. You just picked arguably the top program in the country for the last 10 years, and two of the top 5. (Or better, depending how you view Gonzaga success the last 10 years). Xavier has never come close to those expectations And likely never will.

[xuphan]

Im all for high expectations. You just picked arguably the top program in the country for the last 10 years, and two of the top 5. (Or better, depending how you view Gonzaga success the last 10 years). Xavier has never come close to those expectations And likely never will.

We have a really good recruiting class that should help us be at the top of the conference for the next couple of years.

[XUGRAD80]

We have a really good recruiting class that should help us be at the top of the conference for the next couple of years.

A….Nova’s is ranked 1 place higher on 24/7

B…Xavier has had highly ranked classes before

C…it’s not where they are ranked that matters as much as how well they are developed

D…recruiting rankings as a predictor of future success are not very accurate.

E…the best teams often have the highest ranked recruits, but that’s no guarantee….see Memphis

[D-West & PO-Z]

Then what you expect from this staff and team is not what the expectations you have for the program. Is that correct? If so, we are on the same page, and that’s why at this time where we stand today, I have a real issue with this coaching staff and I hope the admin feels the same way.


I differentiate between Goals and Expectations. You use the words to mean the same.

I don’t “expect” to keep doing the same things and then get different results.

Coming into the season I didn’t “expect” this team to do as well as they have done. I “expected” the team to be .500 in the BE at best. I didn’t “expect” them to beat OSU. I didn’t “expect” them to challenge for the conference championship.

But the “goal” should be to win EVERY game. The “goal” should be to get the program to that point where they challenge for the conference championship every year.

My goals for the program are for it to improve. But until I see that improvement, I don’t Expect the Results to be much different than they have been. I couldn’t see how having the roster remain virtually intact was going to lead to a huge change in the product. Xavier, under Steele, has not had a good history of having players develop. So I never expected the improvement that others did.

That’s not a “loser” mentality. It’s a “realistic” mentality.

I think you two are much more on the same page than on different ones.

Sounds like you both "want", "expect", have "goals" for much more than what Steele has done with Xavier in his tenure. Sounds to me like neither of you are satisfied with what Steele has done and aren't convinced he is the man for the job.

[xuphan]

A….Nova’s is ranked 1 place higher on 24/7

B…Xavier has had highly ranked classes before

C…it’s not where they are ranked that matters as much as how well they are developed

D…recruiting rankings as a predictor of future success are not very accurate.

E…the best teams often have the highest ranked recruits, but that’s no guarantee….see Memphis

What are you trying to say? Steele will get the worst out of them? As long as Steele doesn’t get a soft big in the portal we should have a great reload to fill the void left by Scruggs, Nate, and maybe a couple of transfers.

[Xavier]

What are you trying to say? Steele will get the worst out of them? As long as Steele doesn’t get a soft big in the portal we should have a great reload to fill the void left by Scruggs, Nate, and maybe a couple of transfers.

I’m starting to think you’re a troll. In your mind what would it take to move on from Steele?

[XUGRAD80]

What are you trying to say? Steele will get the worst out of them? As long as Steele doesn’t get a soft big in the portal we should have a great reload to fill the void left by Scruggs, Nate, and maybe a couple of transfers.


Mainly point D. Yes he has a highly ranked recruiting class for next year. But based on the fact that has happened before, I wouldn’t hang my hat on it. Others have pretty good recruiting classes coming in too, and The coaching staff hasn’t shown themselves capable of developing players very well.

Has Odom developed a consistent outside shot?
Has Miles developed as a Big?
Has Free developed defensively?
Has Scruggs really improved over the last 3 years?
I could go on.

I’m not sure if it’s Steele, or the assistant coaches, or the system they have, but player development hasn’t been a strong suit of this staff. I can’t imagine that any of the Frosh coming in are fully polished gems, so they are all going to have to improve in order to keep up with other teams recruits that do develop.

I’m ready to make changes to the coaching staff just because of this, but there are other reasons too.

[xuphan]

I’m starting to think you’re a troll. In your mind what would it take to move on from Steele?

Not sure why the troll thing is needed. To answer your question, I would have gotten rid of Travis at the end of last year and have been vocal about that. Three straight seasons of not making the NCAA Tournament is just not acceptable. His coaching flaws are well known and have been a staple of his tenure. The things that frustrated me during his first season still frustrate me now. However, he seems to have done enough this year to show progress and that Christopher will most likely give him an extension at the end of the season. Not thrilled about it but nothing I can do about it. All I can do is be supportive and hope things change with Steeles coaching.

[SM#24]

I agree to some extent. While I have been incredibly frustrated with the overall coaching of this team, I must admit my frustration is less than the past three years. Not a lot, but less.
Expectations...coming onto this year, I thought we would be at a minimum a top 3 BE team and ranked all year. But after watching this team and the skills and deficiencies of this roster and comparing to the rest of the Big East, my expectation after the first Villanova game was that we should be regular season BE champs. I'm pretty sure that won't happen.

[UCGRAD4X]

Not sure why the troll thing is needed. To answer your question, I would have gotten rid of Travis at the end of last year and have been vocal about that. Three straight seasons of not making the NCAA Tournament is just not acceptable. His coaching flaws are well known and have been a staple of his tenure. The things that frustrated me during his first season still frustrate me now. However, he seems to have done enough this year to show progress and that Christopher will most likely give him an extension at the end of the season. Not thrilled about it but nothing I can do about it. All I can do is be supportive and hope things change with Steeles coaching.

The true tale of improvement will be to avoid the end of season fade. The time is upon us.

Starting games stronger and not losing focus, especially with a good lead, would also instill some confidence that the coaching is getting better.

The player development (or lack of) is a valid and important point.

[markchal]

We used to be a program who made a lot of tournament runs. Now we're a program that makes a lot of excuses (injuries, covid, etc etc). Way more programs in that second group, and more X fans every day seem content with it.

Anything short of an NCAA bid is a catastrophic failure (and this amount of experience should win a game too but thats more on matchups)

[Masterofreality]

Sounds as if a lot of people on here are finally coming to the point where I was last offseason…
And got rations of crap for it.

#DanceOrDie , errrrrrrrrrrrrrr #DanceOrDepart

Oh, and I will remind folks of this: When Travis Steele was hired, he clearly stated that he EXPECTED his program to achieve “the last 2 percent to a Final 4.”
We’re in Year 4. That last “Two Percent” is now more like 15 percent.
That was a expectation that got him the job. How’s the job performance going?
At least 10 games left to see…

[xukeith]

A….Nova’s is ranked 1 place higher on 24/7

B…Xavier has had highly ranked classes before

C…it’s not where they are ranked that matters as much as how well they are developed

D…recruiting rankings as a predictor of future success are not very accurate.

E…the best teams often have the highest ranked recruits, but that’s no guarantee….see Memphis

Not really. Steele's recruiting classes in prior years were never top 15 in country. There have been some sprinkled top talent here and there but NEVER as touted as Ward, Kraft, and Claude. X has never gotten a top 6 shooting guard in the country. Bluiett was a high recruit but he was the 11th best SF. Scruggs was was a high recruit(38) but he was the 7th best PG in the country. Marshall was 58 in country but he was the 14th best SF.

Ward and Craft are both top 60. Ward is ranked as 10th best sf and Craft is ranked as 6th best sg in country.
Only X class that is similar is the Marshall, Scruggs, and Eddie E recruits in 2017. That was a 11th ranked class in country.

[xukeith]

We used to be a program who made a lot of tournament runs. Now we're a program that makes a lot of excuses (injuries, covid, etc etc). Way more programs in that second group, and more X fans every day seem content with it.

Anything short of an NCAA bid is a catastrophic failure (and this amount of experience should win a game too but thats more on matchups)

Most teams think they are good enough to win 2-3 games in tourney. Remember in A10 and MCC days where X beat frequently more experienced and higher seeded teams? Now X is playing with better players. Not necessarily a sweet 16 team

[xavierj]

We used to be a program who made a lot of tournament runs. Now we're a program that makes a lot of excuses (injuries, covid, etc etc). Way more programs in that second group, and more X fans every day seem content with it.

Anything short of an NCAA bid is a catastrophic failure (and this amount of experience should win a game too but thats more on matchups)

You do realize the last elite 8 team barely made the tourney and lost 6 Big East games in a row at one point, right? If not for Tre drilling a late shot against Butler, that team may have been in the NIT. At one point over a 15 game stretch, they went 5-10 and that team is one of the most talented Xavier teams ever.

https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/schools/xavier/2017-gamelogs.html

[xukeith]

What are Virginia's and Florida St's excuse since winning a national championship and having deep talent and now they struggle with a 13-9/ 13-8 record. Bad coaching? Bad recruits? Injuries? No excuses ? Maryland in B10 is now a .500 team. Bad coaching? Poor recruits? Injuries? No excuses?

Michigan is 11-8. Horrible coaching this year? Injuries ? No excuses for probably not making the tourney?

Florida 14-8 once won back to back National Championships. Now they are on big bubble and back in line of SEC. No excuses?

If X is lower than a national championship caliber team, these lofty expectations are understood.
MAybe life in MCC and A10 was easier due to landing superior talent and competing vs not so great talent.

Life now in BE is a ton more challenging. The difference between talent on teams in BE is not so much a disparity. Losses are coming with more challenging opponents.
Would you rather have X go to NCAA every year and win opening round game /1 the time ?
Or would you be okay with a top 3-7 seed and gain a Elite 8 every 5 years?

[xukeith]

our lovable Xavier program is not as heralded as Virginia, FSU, Michigan and Florida.
They have superior facilities and coaches and recruits. Maybe not.

College basketball is extremely difficult to win every single night.

[XUGRAD80]

Not really. Steele's recruiting classes in prior years were never top 15 in country. There have been some sprinkled top talent here and there but NEVER as touted as Ward, Kraft, and Claude. X has never gotten a top 6 shooting guard in the country. Bluiett was a high recruit but he was the 11th best SF. Scruggs was was a high recruit(38) but he was the 7th best PG in the country. Marshall was 58 in country but he was the 14th best SF.

Ward and Craft are both top 60. Ward is ranked as 10th best sf and Craft is ranked as 6th best sg in country.
Only X class that is similar is the Marshall, Scruggs, and Eddie E recruits in 2017. That was a 11th ranked class in country.

You’re correct that it’s never been top 15, BUT the 2019 class was ranked 27 and the 2020 class was ranked 26. There were a total of 8 recruits in those classes. Out of those 2 classes we have 2 starters…Freemantle and Jones. Odom, Miles, and Tandy are still enrolled. Whilcher, Ramsey, and Bishop are all gone. Odom is the only one of those other six that sees any significant minutes. I hate to be pessimistic, but that indicates that of the 3 freshmen coming in next year, 1 will develop into a starter, 1 will be a backup, and 1 will transfer out. It could easily be shown that the transfers that Steele has brought in have had more influence on the teams lineups than his freshman recruits. Perhaps this next class will be different, but I wouldn’t bet on it.

[Xville]

Comparing us to football schools..who cares what they do.

[xukeith]

You’re correct that it’s never been top 15, BUT the 2019 class was ranked 27 and the 2020 class was ranked 26. There were a total of 8 recruits in those classes. Out of those 2 classes we have 2 starters…Freemantle and Jones. Odom, Miles, and Tandy are still enrolled. Whilcher, Ramsey, and Bishop are all gone. Odom is the only one of those other six that sees any significant minutes. I hate to be pessimistic, but that indicates that of the 3 freshmen coming in next year, 1 will develop into a starter, 1 will be a backup, and 1 will transfer out. It could easily be shown that the transfers that Steele has brought in have had more influence on the teams lineups than his freshman recruits. Perhaps this next class will be different, but I wouldn’t bet on it.

I agree. It is the law of averages . Will have a good transfer. Maybe the frosh only have 2 contributors . I do not hold any coach responsible if some highly talented recruit blows his chance and never pans out. Get the better ranked recruits and score some top transfer talent increases the odds of landing in top half of BE and exceeding expectations in NCAA TOURNEY

[xukeith]

Comparing us to football schools..who cares what they do.
Uhhhhh good luck only caring about DePaul, Gonzaga and Duke. X competes for recruits with football schools.

[MHettel]

You do realize the last elite 8 team barely made the tourney and lost 6 Big East games in a row at one point, right? If not for Tre drilling a late shot against Butler, that team may have been in the NIT. At one point over a 15 game stretch, they went 5-10 and that team is one of the most talented Xavier teams ever.

https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/schools/xavier/2017-gamelogs.html

Sumner got injured. We were Top 5 earlier that year. Sumner injury knocked us off our rocker, and they regrouped to finish strong. That was a FF team with Sumner....

[Xville]

Uhhhhh good luck only caring about DePaul, Gonzaga and Duke. X competes for recruits with football schools.

Recruiting is not the issue, and most of the schools you listed don’t have superior facilities or coaches…or at least, not until Steele took over

[xavierj]

Sumner got injured. We were Top 5 earlier that year. Sumner injury knocked us off our rocker, and they regrouped to finish strong. That was a FF team with Sumner....

That’s interesting and maybe on final 4, but they won that game Ed got hurt in and then won three straight, including at Creighton then went in a tail spin. That team lost by 10 at UC that year with Ed. Also lost with Ed at Baylor, at Colorado, at Nova, at Butler and home against Creighton, all with Ed. So yeah they took some L’s with or without Ed, but got right and made a run.

[UCGRAD4X]

What are Virginia's and Florida St's excuse since winning a national championship and having deep talent and now they struggle with a 13-9/ 13-8 record. Bad coaching? Bad recruits? Injuries? No excuses ? Maryland in B10 is now a .500 team. Bad coaching? Poor recruits? Injuries? No excuses?

Michigan is 11-8. Horrible coaching this year? Injuries ? No excuses for probably not making the tourney?

Florida 14-8 once won back to back National Championships. Now they are on big bubble and back in line of SEC. No excuses?

If X is lower than a national championship caliber team, these lofty expectations are understood.
MAybe life in MCC and A10 was easier due to landing superior talent and competing vs not so great talent.
Life now in BE is a ton more challenging. The difference between talent on teams in BE is not so much a disparity. Losses are coming with more challenging opponents.
Would you rather have X go to NCAA every year and win opening round game /1 the time ?
Or would you be okay with a top 3-7 seed and gain a Elite 8 every 5 years?

Challenging life in the Big East should make us more prepared for NCAAs. Being successful in a lesser league should not realistically translate to better tourney success than less success in a better conference. If the team is better, gets a better seed, more likely to win.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Challenging life in the Big East should make us more prepared for NCAAs. Being successful in a lesser league should not realistically translate to better tourney success than less success in a better conference. If the team is better, gets a better seed, more likely to win.

Just need to get there to test the theory.

[OTRMUSKIE]

The thing is watching X play is excruciating. They win in spite of coaching. Honestly I have no idea how they pulled off 16 wins so far. In the past we lost games but I don't ever remember looking this awful win or lose. I think the transfer portal has really messed teams up. Maybe teams depend too much on transfer portal and not enough on recruiting? Whatever it is, Xavier has looked absolutely awful in a crap ton of games this year. Results are what matters so let's see how this story ends.

[UCGRAD4X]

Just need to get there to test the theory.

tru dat

[xuphan]

The thing is watching X play is excruciating. They win in spite of coaching. Honestly I have no idea how they pulled off 16 wins so far. In the past we lost games but I don't ever remember looking this awful win or lose. I think the transfer portal has really messed teams up. Maybe teams depend too much on transfer portal and not enough on recruiting? Whatever it is, Xavier has looked absolutely awful in a crap ton of games this year. Results are what matters so let's see how this story ends.

The big question is can Steele recruit enough talent to overcome his deficiencies as a coach? So far, the answer has been no.

[xavierj]

The big question is can Steele recruit enough talent to overcome his deficiencies as a coach? So far, the answer has been no.

Lol. His team is ranked this year and will be 17-5, 7-4 in conference after today. Did you know if Xavier gets to 11 conference wins it will be the third most Big East wins in a season for Xavier? The team has flaws. Keep building it. Next years class will be the best class they have had come in since Trevon, JP and Sumner. Have three guys coming in who hunt shots and have confidence. I think on the current roster only Zach plays that way. Paul tries but it’s not really in his makeup to be the guy. Colby could be but he doesn’t know how yet. You need guys. It’s coming.

[xavierj]

The thing is watching X play is excruciating. They win in spite of coaching. Honestly I have no idea how they pulled off 16 wins so far. In the past we lost games but I don't ever remember looking this awful win or lose. I think the transfer portal has really messed teams up. Maybe teams depend too much on transfer portal and not enough on recruiting? Whatever it is, Xavier has looked absolutely awful in a crap ton of games this year. Results are what matters so let's see how this story ends.

This is hilarious. So if they win it’s the players? If they lose it’s the coaches? Got it. Oh and some teams, Alabama, Arkansas and Marquette have nothing but transfers. Seems to work for them. Xavier needs to be better to get where they will go but this year has been a positive move forward so far. And Travis record outside of conference play has been pretty good since he took over. 38-12 and his only loss to a non power conference team was year 1 at UC. That’s a good sign once the tournament starts. Big East is a gauntlet and every coach knows exactly what every team will do. Travis is in year 4 and only DePauls coach has less head coaching experience. Wright, McDermott, Anderson, Cooley, Willard, Shaka and even Hurley have been coaching a long time. Hurley and Shaka in year 13. My guess is Travis will be a much better coach 10 years from now, than he is now.

[xukeith]

Lol. His team is ranked this year and will be 17-5, 7-4 in conference after today. Did you know if Xavier gets to 11 conference wins it will be the third most Big East wins in a season for Xavier? The team has flaws. Keep building it. Next years class will be the best class they have had come in since Trevon, JP and Sumner. Have three guys coming in who hunt shots and have confidence. I think on the current roster only Zach plays that way. Paul tries but it’s not really in his makeup to be the guy. Colby could be but he doesn’t know how yet. You need guys. It’s coming.

100% Agree.
I was looking at the BE teams performance over the past 4-6 years.
I thought if you were the judge and jury of all BE teams and you could hire/fire anyone you wish, which BE teams whose past 4-6 years deserves a firing of their head coach.
Obviously Nova has 0 reason to fire their coach.
Creighton has 2 NCAA appearances and a sweet 16 over past 5 years
Seton Hall and Marquette have a couple tourney appearances.
Providence has 1 appearance no wins in tourney over 4-6 years.
UConn has mot much success in tourney over past 5 years.
Nova is the only program who consistently makes and wins in the tourney.
X has probably better name recognition and better recruiting compared to these BE teams.
Who deserves praise and who do you believe has strongest case to fire their head coach?

[xukeith]

This is hilarious. So if they win it’s the players? If they lose it’s the coaches? Got it. Oh and some teams, Alabama, Arkansas and Marquette have nothing but transfers. Seems to work for them. Xavier needs to be better to get where they will go but this year has been a positive move forward so far. And Travis record outside of conference play has been pretty good since he took over. 38-12 and his only loss to a non power conference team was year 1 at UC. That’s a good sign once the tournament starts. Big East is a gauntlet and every coach knows exactly what every team will do. Travis is in year 4 and only DePauls coach has less head coaching experience. Wright, McDermott, Anderson, Cooley, Willard, Shaka and even Hurley have been coaching a long time. Hurley and Shaka in year 13. My guess is Travis will be a much better coach 10 years from now, than he is now.

True. In 4 years Steele has improved coaching decisions. This year’s team is proof of success and improving the X brand. The players love Xavier and recruits are improving. Perfect? No way. Improvement? Definitely

[xuphan]

Lol. His team is ranked this year and will be 17-5, 7-4 in conference after today. Did you know if Xavier gets to 11 conference wins it will be the third most Big East wins in a season for Xavier? The team has flaws. Keep building it. Next years class will be the best class they have had come in since Trevon, JP and Sumner. Have three guys coming in who hunt shots and have confidence. I think on the current roster only Zach plays that way. Paul tries but it’s not really in his makeup to be the guy. Colby could be but he doesn’t know how yet. You need guys. It’s coming.

Well 3 seasons of failing to make the NCAA tournament just isn’t acceptable. Third most Big East wins isn’t that impressive since we haven’t been in the big east that long. However, I would agree that he is trending up this season as he has most likely gotten this team to the NCAA tournament. The recruits he has coming in is impressive and hopefully he gets a banger down low and not another finesse big in the portal. We do need a post player who can score down low when shots aren’t falling from the outside.

[94GRAD]

You’re correct that it’s never been top 15, BUT the 2019 class was ranked 27 and the 2020 class was ranked 26. There were a total of 8 recruits in those classes. Out of those 2 classes we have 2 starters…Freemantle and Jones. Odom, Miles, and Tandy are still enrolled. Whilcher, Ramsey, and Bishop are all gone. Odom is the only one of those other six that sees any significant minutes. I hate to be pessimistic, but that indicates that of the 3 freshmen coming in next year, 1 will develop into a starter, 1 will be a backup, and 1 will transfer out. It could easily be shown that the transfers that Steele has brought in have had more influence on the teams lineups than his freshman recruits. Perhaps this next class will be different, but I wouldn’t bet on it.


Well 3 seasons of failing to make the NCAA tournament just isn’t acceptable. Third most Big East wins isn’t that impressive since we haven’t been in the big east that long. However, I would agree that he is trending up this season as he has most likely gotten this team to the NCAA tournament. The recruits he has coming in is impressive and hopefully he gets a banger down low and not another finesse big in the portal. We do need a post player who can score down low when shots aren’t falling from the outside.

No one made the tournament 2 years ago because there wasn't one. By your logic, there are only 68 teams that have a chance to get their streak of making the Tourney to 2 years in a row?

[Xville]

100% Agree.
I was looking at the BE teams performance over the past 4-6 years.
I thought if you were the judge and jury of all BE teams and you could hire/fire anyone you wish, which BE teams whose past 4-6 years deserves a firing of their head coach.
Obviously Nova has 0 reason to fire their coach.
Creighton has 2 NCAA appearances and a sweet 16 over past 5 years
Seton Hall and Marquette have a couple tourney appearances.
Providence has 1 appearance no wins in tourney over 4-6 years.
UConn has mot much success in tourney over past 5 years.
Nova is the only program who consistently makes and wins in the tourney.
X has probably better name recognition and better recruiting compared to these BE teams.
Who deserves praise and who do you believe has strongest case to fire their head coach?

Marquette fired this coach. Creighton has been building for years, they weren’t close to what Xavier was entering the be. UConn is building, has a coach that has won every single place he has been at, and has a newer coach who will be top 3 on the big East perennially.

All I see from certain posters is a lot of excuse making for a coach who up to this point is mediocre.

[xukeith]

Despite missing the tourney in 2019 and 2021, Xavier’s brand is still
strong. Every BE team except Nova has lesser success on the recruiting trail. Maybe UConn has been successful
because of their past success in tourney.
UConn and X are battling for recruits.
This season and tournament success could affirm X ‘s dominance on recruiting trail.
Creighton and Seton Hall have been successful in past 6 years but they don’t recruit at the level of X yet.
This season’s success probably will be duplicated next year. The players love X and get other top talent to join.

[xavierj]

Well 3 seasons of failing to make the NCAA tournament just isn’t acceptable. Third most Big East wins isn’t that impressive since we haven’t been in the big east that long. However, I would agree that he is trending up this season as he has most likely gotten this team to the NCAA tournament. The recruits he has coming in is impressive and hopefully he gets a banger down low and not another finesse big in the portal. We do need a post player who can score down low when shots aren’t falling from the outside.

Do you just leave Zach out because you want to? Guy can score at will down low when he is healthy and he has proven that. He needs to get stronger and continue to improve on defense, but he can score in the post. Yes they could use another guy maybe off the bench that brings strength and athleticism but next year Zach and Jack will both be starting at the 4 and 5, Colby will start at the 3 and then the 1 and 2 will be up for grabs. Odom will probably start at the 1, and I can see Craft start at the 2.

[xuphan]

No one made the tournament 2 years ago because there wasn't one. By your logic, there are only 68 teams that have a chance to get their streak of making the Tourney to 2 years in a row?

We were not making that tournament regardless. Just another excuse some make for Steele.

[xuphan]

Do you just leave Zach out because you want to? Guy can score at will down low when he is healthy and he has proven that. He needs to get stronger and continue to improve on defense, but he can score in the post. Yes they could use another guy maybe off the bench that brings strength and athleticism but next year Zach and Jack will both be starting at the 4 and 5, Colby will start at the 3 and then the 1 and 2 will be up for grabs. Odom will probably start at the 1, and I can see Craft start at the 2.

I did leave Zach out of it. How can Zach score at will in the low post but still needs to get stronger? You say he can score down low at will but seems to shoot a lot of 3s for some reason. Why is that? He is making like 20% of his 3s this year which is way down from his previous 2 years. His Freshman year he made 35%, sophomore year he made 32%. You would think they would have him post up more if he can as you say score down low at will. I think Zach is a good role player but not a reliable option night in and night out. As a junior, I expect more out of him and he hasn’t consistently produced this year. I know that may trigger some on here but he is a liability on the defensive side of the ball and can be on the offensive side of the ball if he is not mentally in it. He would be a good bench option for Steele but he is not someone we are going to be able to rely on night in and night out.

[Xuperman]

All I see from certain posters is a lot of excuse making for a coach who up to this point is mediocre.

And what everyone else sees on the flip, is an obnoxious group of "derriere hats" that never...never ever ever, fill the glass more than half full regardless of the quality of beverage.

[UCGRAD4X]

No one made the tournament 2 years ago because there wasn't one. By your logic, there are only 68 teams that have a chance to get their streak of making the Tourney to 2 years in a row?

I find this a shaky argument at best. The fact that it is / was in doubt or even a debate is in and of itself an indictment.

[xavierj]

I did leave Zach out of it. How can Zach score at will in the low post but still needs to get stronger? You say he can score down low at will but seems to shoot a lot of 3s for some reason. Why is that? He is making like 20% of his 3s this year which is way down from his previous 2 years. His Freshman year he made 35%, sophomore year he made 32%. You would think they would have him post up more if he can as you say score down low at will. I think Zach is a good role player but not a reliable option night in and night out. As a junior, I expect more out of him and he hasn’t consistently produced this year. I know that may trigger some on here but he is a liability on the defensive side of the ball and can be on the offensive side of the ball if he is not mentally in it. He would be a good bench option for Steele but he is not someone we are going to be able to rely on night in and night out.

You really don’t watch the games do you? If you think Zach just shoots nothing but three and is a finesse guy, you lose credibility. Guy showed last year he could score inside and was capable of hitting outside shots. He went 2-5 last game from three and 7 of 8 down low. Zach is a good low post guy. Again he will start at the 4 next year and Jack at the 5. If they get a guy who can be a low post athletic physical guy to come off bench fine, but Zach and Jack will start and should start. Pay attention.

[Masterofreality]

No one made the tournament 2 years ago because there wasn't one. By your logic, there are only 68 teams that have a chance to get their streak of making the Tourney to 2 years in a row?

We lost to a garbage DePaul team with a future NBA player and a monster down low with Tyrique.
That guy who coached DePaul that night was ultimately fired.
Nah to this.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

You really don’t watch the games do you? If you think Zach just shoots nothing but three and is a finesse guy, you lose credibility. Guy showed last year he could score inside and was capable of hitting outside shots. He went 2-5 last game from three and 7 of 8 down low. Zach is a good low post guy. Again he will start at the 4 next year and Jack at the 5. If they get a guy who can be a low post athletic physical guy to come off bench fine, but Zach and Jack will start and should start. Pay attention.

The next few B.E. games are against teams with some good bigs. So, the argument doesn't have to be settled here. Let's just watch and by the end of month, one of you is going to win the debate...........I think.

[xavierj]

The next few B.E. games are against teams with some good bigs. So, the argument doesn't have to be settled here. Let's just watch and by the end of month, one of you is going to win the debate...........I think.

I agree but Zach did play against these same teams last year right? He averaged 16 and 9 and had some monster games against Big East teams. Could have used more help.

[noteggs]

Guess after this year, we’ll just have to get used to hearing “Steele has only taken us to 1 tournament in the last 4?” Might as well get a jump on it.

[xuphan]

You really don’t watch the games do you? If you think Zach just shoots nothing but three and is a finesse guy, you lose credibility. Guy showed last year he could score inside and was capable of hitting outside shots. He went 2-5 last game from three and 7 of 8 down low. Zach is a good low post guy. Again he will start at the 4 next year and Jack at the 5. If they get a guy who can be a low post athletic physical guy to come off bench fine, but Zach and Jack will start and should start. Pay attention.

Pay attention to what? Maybe you should pay attention to his stats. Zach is down on just about every stat so far this season. If he is such a great low post player, then why is he shooting so many 3s? I have no doubt he will start next year because he seems to be Steeles buddy. Shooting 20% from 3 and be a traffic cone on defense isn’t good enough from a junior who is expected to do more. A man who can score at will down low also needs to work on being stronger? Wow, who is losing credibility?

[Xville]

And what everyone else sees on the flip, is an obnoxious group of "derriere hats" that never...never ever ever, fill the glass more than half full regardless of the quality of beverage.

Cool story bro. Tell it again

How’s your boyfriend doing that you compared to one of the best x players ever? Regressing to his mean.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

I agree but Zach did play against these same teams last year right? He averaged 16 and 9 and had some monster games against Big East teams. Could have used more help.

Yes. I recall those games. I saw the term "fool's gold" somewhere on these boards used in regard (I think) to Free's three point shooting. I agree. Having him out beyond the three-point line is wasting him. His strength is inside although I too have seen games where he didn't appear to have enough muscle. Still, that is his strength and pulling him outside to a part of his game that is weak isn't a good use of his talent.

Off to the game. Drudy is right. We are due for a blowout win at home!

[xavierj]

Pay attention to what? Maybe you should pay attention to his stats. Zach is down on just about every stat so far this season. If he is such a great low post player, then why is he shooting so many 3s? I have no doubt he will start next year because he seems to be Steeles buddy. Shooting 20% from 3 and be a traffic cone on defense isn’t good enough from a junior who is expected to do more. A man who can score at will down low also needs to work on being stronger? Wow, who is losing credibility?

Again pay attention. You do realize he was unable to workout or practice and had surgery in between August and November right? Zach will be fine. Expect a huge game from him today. He keeps teams honest from three but shoots mostly inside. Also since you don’t watch he is shooting fewer threes than last year. By 2 a game.

https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/zach-freemantle-1.html

[xuphan]

Again pay attention. You do realize he was unable to workout or practice and had surgery in between August and November right? Zach will be fine. Expect a huge game from him today. He keeps teams honest from three but shoots mostly inside.

Again pay attention to what? His 20% from 3 keeps teams honest? He should have a huge game today. We are playing DePaul at home.

[xukeith]

Again pay attention. You do realize he was unable to workout or practice and had surgery in between August and November right? Zach will be fine. Expect a huge game from him today. He keeps teams honest from three but shoots mostly inside. Also since you don’t watch he is shooting fewer threes than last year. By 2 a game.

https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/zach-freemantle-1.html

Some fans think Zach isn't a good low post scorer or rebounder. Heaven forbid if he dare shoot a 3. Vs Butler, I recognize his defense has improved a lot. He is not the best defender but he is a lot better than 2-3 weeks ago.

Tall players should not only stand in the paint.
If Jack Nunge did not make 3's for X then probably X doesn't win some games. Do either Zach or Jack stay outside the 3 and never rebound? Are they wasting time? Why do they shoot 3's if they both are not 0.35 -0.40 % accurate.

[xavierj]

My last comment on this thread. Travis deserves to be questioned no doubt, but the bashing of players and coaches without having any sort of rationality makes this board weak. It’s almost like if you are not bashing Travis you shouldn’t be here. This site used to be better. I think most fans think this year has shown improvement. Not where we think it can be, but improvement. Most people on here want Xavier to win and do well, but not everyone. You can figure out the why behind not everyone for sure. Anyway, here is to crushing DePaul and getting one step closer to a run in the tourney. Enjoy it. It’s supposed to be fun.

[Xville]

In the house and getting my woods beer. Go x

[Xville]

Fuck Steele he’s not my coach. Bring back miller

[xavbball]

My last comment on this thread. Travis deserves to be questioned no doubt, but the bashing of players and coaches without having any sort of rationality makes this board weak. It’s almost like if you are not bashing Travis you shouldn’t be here. This site used to be better. I think most fans think this year has shown improvement. Not where we think it can be, but improvement. Most people on here want Xavier to win and do well, but not everyone. You can figure out the why behind not everyone for sure. Anyway, here is to crushing DePaul and getting one step closer to a run in the tourney. Enjoy it. It’s supposed to be fun.

Enjoy what? Mediocrity? The only thing weak about this board are the folks who continue to defend a coach who's taking this program in the wrong direction.

[muskiefan82]

He just doesn't have it. Time to move on

[boozehound]

He just doesn't have it. Time to move on

Yep. We can’t afford to stay mired in mediocrity any longer. He has to go.

[Masterofreality]

My last comment on this thread. Travis deserves to be questioned no doubt, but the bashing of players and coaches without having any sort of rationality makes this board weak. It’s almost like if you are not bashing Travis you shouldn’t be here. This site used to be better. I think most fans think this year has shown improvement. Not where we think it can be, but improvement. Most people on here want Xavier to win and do well, but not everyone. You can figure out the why behind not everyone for sure. Anyway, here is to crushing DePaul and getting one step closer to a run in the tourney. Enjoy it. It’s supposed to be fun.

This is not fun.
And bashing a coach who has continually underachieved in late season for going on 4 years now is not uncalled for.
The lack of situational schooling and awareness is totally on the head guy who is getting paid handsomely.
A terrible loss in all respects. We just lost to a team at home that was missing their top 2 players and another guy who had to leave. Ludicrous. Maybe the worst loss ever in Cintas
9 guaranteed games to go.
#DanceOrDepart

[OTRMUSKIE]

This is not fun.
And bashing a coach who has continually underachieved in late season for going on 4 years now is not uncalled for.
The lack of situational schooling and awareness is totally on the head guy who is getting paid handsomely.
A terrible loss in all respects. We just lost to a team at home that was missing their top 2 players and another guy who had to leave. Ludicrous. Maybe the worst loss ever in Cintas
9 guaranteed games to go.
#DanceOrDepart

Must not have been fan long. You forgot about the southern Utah state loss at the gardens. Think it was southern Utah?

[Masterofreality]

On the postgame, Steele says once again “We gotta play smarter, MAN, and that’s on me”.
Uh, how many more times, MAN, will it be on you??? When are you going to fix this? When you say “we gotta get better shots”, maybe the problem is your scheme? You just lost a game at home to a team missing their two best players.
Inexcusable.

[XUBob]

I am absolutely at a loss for words, lots of thought but I think I’ll just keep them to myself. This movie is starting to look all too familiar.

[SM#24]

Must not have been fan long. You forgot about the southern Utah state loss at the gardens. Think it was southern Utah?
He did say Cintas.

[Masterofreality]

I’ve railed for over 3 years now how simplistic Steele’s offensive system is. Here we go…
We scored 65 fucking points at home. Steele has now been scouted-AGAIN!! We've scored less than 70 points in 7 out of the last 10 games. His simplistic offensive scheme is coming home to roost

[Xavier]

People get mad we focus on wings and guards in recruiting. Feel like we could use a guard/wing that can create. The offense is tough because the only way to get good looks is by running set on plays. X is easy to guard because they don’t have that guy that can completely take over on offense.

Not that it matters for Steele, but next year and Sean (whoever the coach is) Guards and wings run college basketball, over recruit that every year.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Good point that answer would be DePaul for sho

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Must not have been fan long. You forgot about the southern Utah state loss at the gardens. Think it was southern Utah?

Jesus, I thought I had purged the memory of that 5'8" point guard who torched us from outside. But, that game was very early in the season and meaningless. Today's game was meaningful which makes the pain so much greater.

[Masterofreality]

Jesus, I thought I had purged the memory of that 5'8" point guard who torched us from outside. But, that game was very early in the season and meaningless. Today's game was meaningful which makes the pain so much greater.

That game was in the Gardens. I said Cintas

[xukeith]

I don't imaging X's AD firing Steele.
Just my 2 cents

[Masterofreality]

I don't imaging X's AD firing Steele.
Just my 2 cents

If he misses the Tournament?

[UCGRAD4X]

We gotta do better man. We just gotta take better shots man. We gotta do better man. We gotta play smarter man. We gotta do better man. We gotta distribute the ball better man. We gotta do better man. We gotta quit taking bad shots man. We gotta do better man.

IT'S YOUR FRIGGIN JOB TO SEE THAT IT HAPPENS......MAN!

We need a better coach....man.

[XUBison]

In the house and getting my woods beer. Go x

That was a half empty beer, correct?

[Masterofreality]

We gotta do better man. We just gotta take better shots man. We gotta do better man. We gotta play smarter man. We gotta do better man. We gotta distribute the ball better man. We gotta do better man. We gotta quit taking bad shots man. We gotta do better man.

IT'S YOUR FRIGGIN JOB TO SEE THAT IT HAPPENS......MAN!

We need a better coach....man.

I'm getting my full bottle of Crown Royale out Monday night and taking a shot for every "Man".
I'll be drunk by a half an hour and can pass out before hearing anymore BS

[MHettel]

I'm getting my full bottle of Crown Royale out Monday night and taking a shot for every "Man".
I'll be drunk by a half an hour and can pass out before hearing anymore BS

I just drank a bottle of Courvoisier. Hoping to pass out and wake up and realize it's all just been a dream....

[UCGRAD4X]

This was disgraceful. An absolute Travistry.

Time to move on. Play out the season. Smoke from the hopium pipe. IF they make it to the tournament...IF they make it to the second weekend...I'm still not sure I want this madness to continue.

[xuphan]

This was disgraceful. An absolute Travistry.

Time to move on. Play out the season. Smoke from the hopium pipe. IF they make it to the tournament...IF they make it to the second weekend...I'm still not sure I want this madness to continue.

You think Steele will get sacked if he doesn’t make it to the second weekend? Travis will get an extension for making the tournament.

[Masterofreality]

I just drank a bottle of Courvoisier. Hoping to pass out and wake up and realize it's all just been a dream....

Public props. I knew that was coming. :-)

[UCGRAD4X]

You think Steele will get sacked if he doesn’t make it to the second weekend? Travis will get an extension for making the tournament.

You're right, he probably will.

[XU 23]

Even when we win, it’s usually by the skin of our teeth against bad teams (well, lately)… time for a change. Enough is enough.

[xuphan]

Even when we win, it’s usually by the skin of our teeth against bad teams (well, lately)… time for a change. Enough is enough.

Wonder what Dante thinks sitting on the sidelines? Part of me think he want to put on a uniform and show these boys how it is done.

[Masterofreality]

Side note:

Travis Steele is now 42-43 in non Buy Games in his career at Xavier. He is 29-31 in Big East games after today.
Total mediocrity.

[xuphan]

Even when we win, it’s usually by the skin of our teeth against bad teams (well, lately)… time for a change. Enough is enough.

Time for a change? Please let Christopher know. He can be reached at: athleticdirector@xavier.edu

[XUBob]

While not completely on the same page all the time, I do agree with MOR’s Dance or Die mantra. Got several post game phone calls from friends/fans that thought I’ve been too hard on Steele. Their tune is starting to change, tired of seeing the same old same old. What is interesting to me is that I’ve been critical but kind of wait and see with him. I hope Travis and the administration realize things need to change in a hurry. As I told a friend at halftime, our numbers/ metrics look good but our team doesn’t.

[Masterofreality]

While not completely on the same page all the time, I do agree with MOR’s Dance or Die mantra. Got several post game phone calls from friends/fans that thought I’ve been too hard on Steele. Their tune is starting to change, tired of seeing the same old same old. What is interesting to me is that I’ve been critical but kind of wait and see with him. I hope Travis and the administration realize things need to change in a hurry. As I told a friend at halftime, our numbers/ metrics look good but our team doesn’t.

Take heed. There is no bigger, more loyal or larger Xavier honk than Bob from Finneytown.

[D-West & PO-Z]

On the postgame, Steele says once again “We gotta play smarter, MAN, and that’s on me”.
Uh, how many more times, MAN, will it be on you??? When are you going to fix this? When you say “we gotta get better shots”, maybe the problem is your scheme? You just lost a game at home to a team missing their two best players.
Inexcusable.

Did you hear him completely contradict himself in the radio interview? He said we have to stop the bad starts, he has to figure it out, but we got some good shots (don't we always, lmao?) but they just didn't go down. Then later he said guys took bad shots and guys are trying to shoot themselves hot and thats not what you do to get things going. He said they chart bad shots. I think he said there were at least 9.

[drudy23]

We're back to Coach Aluminum.

[Xuperman]

That was LITERALLY unacceptable. I can feel a slight tug from the dark side.

[XUBison]

That was LITERALLY unacceptable. I can feel a slight tug from the dark side.

~Tonight, he looked at his cup, and to his horror— it was half empty.

[XUGRAD80]

I suspect that Steele will be back next year, but I also suspect that there will be changes to the assistant coaches staff. That’s not what I’d like to see, but I think it’s what we will get.

[Xville]

Never should have been hired in the first place. Having a fil on the board is bs

[bleedXblue]

I suspect that Steele will be back next year, but I also suspect that there will be changes to the assistant coaches staff. That’s not what I’d like to see, but I think it’s what we will get.

EXACTLY what I said......

And I said he needs more tactical experienced coaches on the sideline 2 YEARS ago.

One last thing.

I THINK Steele is way too nice and way too accepting of a coach. The next player that takes a bad shot early in the shot clock should sit the rest of the game. The next guy who doesn't box out, sits the rest of the game. The next guy who doesn't give maximum effort sits the rest of the game. I don't give a F who it is. Play your walk on's. Set a F'ing example and standard Steele!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[bleedXblue]

Agreed. It was a reach but you had Christopher follow the previous hiring pattern that Bobinski created and I can certainly understand why he got the job. Now, if Steele doesn't pull off a miracle we will have to look outside for the first time in many years.

[UCGRAD4X]

EXACTLY what I said......

And I said he needs more tactical experienced coaches on the sideline 2 YEARS ago.

One last thing.

I THINK Steele is way too nice and way too accepting of a coach. The next player that takes a bad shot early in the shot clock should sit the rest of the game. The next guy who doesn't box out, sits the rest of the game. The next guy who doesn't give maximum effort sits the rest of the game. I don't give a F who it is. Play your walk on's. Set a F'ing example and standard Steele!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

we're going to need a lot more walk-ons