Game Thread: Xavier vs. Providence (1/10/2021)

[paulxu]

https://www.brickeconomy.com/resources/images/sets/lego-8804-3_large.jpgVS. https://sports.winningfreepicks.com/assets/article-photos-2019/01/_resampled/PadWyIzMjAiLCIyNDAiLCJGRkZGRkYiLDBd/Providence-Friars-12619.jpg

THE MATCHUP

XAVIER UNIVERSITY MUSKETEERS (9-2, 2-2 BIG EAST)
PROVIDENCE COLLEGE FRIARS (7-4, 3-2 BIG EAST)
SUNDAY, JAN. 10, 2021 AT 11:00 A.M. ET
CINTAS CENTER IN CINCINNATI, OHIO

TV, RADIO & LIVE STATS

Television: FOX national, including FOX 19 in Cincinnati with play-by-play from Tim Brando and analysis from Donny Marshall.
Radio: 700 WLW-AM with play-by-play from XU Hall of Famer and former XU standout Joe Sunderman ('79) and analysis from XU Hall of Famer and all-time leading scorer Byron Larkin ('88); also available on Sirius XM channel 382 and Internet 972.
Live Stats: Media stats at Statbroadcast.com and fan stats at GoXavier.com..

[Xville]

Gigantic game...need this one before going on the road at seton hall and UConn. Hate to say must win but I think this one is pivotal.

[paulxu]

I guess it's TV driven, but playing on Sunday morning at 11:00 just seems weird.

[Xville]

Yeah... starting early probably due to all the nfl throughout the day is my guess.

[XUGRAD80]

Look for Witcher to get some play, per Steele. Evidently been doing really well in practice. Xavier will play more “small” lineup too.

[Lloyd Braun]

No line yet...
Would assume X by 2-3 and around 142-143 O/U

Early games tend to be lower scoring? Or am I making that up?

[UCGRAD4X]

No line yet...
Would assume X by 2-3 and around 142-143 O/U

Early games tend to be lower scoring? Or am I making that up?

Maybe. But I'm easy.

[GoMuskies]

I see X -4/141

[BlueX]

According to the foxsports app the game will be in 4k if you stream through the app.

[paulxu]

In the "good old days" this game time might have been a good reason for Kegs 'n Eggs.
Which reminds me, has anyone tried this?

https://images.foxtv.com/static.fox13news.com/www.fox13news.com/content/uploads/2020/11/592/333/WTVT-Still-2020-11-14-17h35m58s716.jpg?ve=1&tl=1

[Lloyd Braun]

I see -3 and 141.5

Also I see white running man jerseys on National tv.

[GIMMFD]

I see X -4/141

Waiting for it to open on DraftKings but probably going to hammer it regardless, I think we find our shooting touch again tomorrow morning.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I like X and the over.

[Lloyd Braun]

Draft kings at -4/140.5 currently.

I still like the under unless X gets their act together on offense. I suppose they are due.

I really like Colby Jones but I am inclined to have him come off the bench and start Odom again, health permitting. The pieces parts just fit together better that way. One thing that really bothers me with Travis’ lineups is that the first half seems to be squeezing everyone who needs minutes in and adjusting to whomever has 2 fouls, whereas the 2nd half is basically 6 guys getting all the minutes. I know it’s ridiculous to criticize lineups from my living room but I would like to see some better patterns with subs to have a happy balance of fresh legs and rhythm.

[atljar]

Dish showing in 4k... For you like minded tech junkies

[XUGRAD80]

Draft kings at -4/140.5 currently.

I still like the under unless X gets their act together on offense. I suppose they are due.

I really like Colby Jones but I am inclined to have him come off the bench and start Odom again, health permitting. The pieces parts just fit together better that way. One thing that really bothers me with Travis’ lineups is that the first half seems to be squeezing everyone who needs minutes in and adjusting to whomever has 2 fouls, whereas the 2nd half is basically 6 guys getting all the minutes. I know it’s ridiculous to criticize lineups from my living room but I would like to see some better patterns with subs to have a happy balance of fresh legs and rhythm.

That's certainly what we saw in the last game, but I don't think that it is the normal way he does it. Seems to me that he was substituting regularly against SH the whole game, searching for a combination that worked. I like the idea of more subs in the 1st half, as that keeps players rested for the 2nd half, but part of that is determined by fouls. 2 fouls in the 1st half and you can expect to sit until the 2nd.

If I remember correctly he actually brought Freemantle back in at the end of the 1st half, even though he had 2 fouls. I can't remember if he did the same for Scruggs, who also had 2 fouls in the 1st half. I still have my suspicion that Freemantle was sick for the SJU game, as he looked very listless. He ended up playing only 21 minutes, and finished the game with only 2 fouls (both in the 1st half).

I hope Free plays much better in this game and sees many more minutes. Providence has a very good center and it will take a tag-team effort from all the bigs to keep him under control. Someone is going to need to block him out on every play or he might end up controlling the boards.

[Double Down]

Would love to see what D Miles is capable of doing against a quality opponent. We’re now down a big man and I believe he’s able to run the floor well with an uptempo style of play. He has the ability to block shots and seems he’s the only scholarship player without p.t. in our B.E. games. Let’s see what the big dog can do.

[XUGRAD80]

Would love to see what D Miles is capable of doing against a quality opponent. We’re now down a big man and I believe he’s able to run the floor well with an uptempo style of play. He has the ability to block shots and seems he’s the only scholarship player without p.t. in our B.E. games. Let’s see what the big dog can do.

He’s been out with a hip injury, not sure what his status for this game is.

[markchal]

Would love to see what D Miles is capable of doing against a quality opponent. We’re now down a big man and I believe he’s able to run the floor well with an uptempo style of play. He has the ability to block shots and seems he’s the only scholarship player without p.t. in our B.E. games. Let’s see what the big dog can do.

I think there's a reason we have barely seen him after the first few weeks when we were missing a handful of guys. I would be shocked if he plays any meaningful minutes, other than maybe 2-5 here or there.

[Jesuit4Life]

If your local FOX station isn't scheduled to show the game, you should be able to watch it on the FOX Sports app or here: https://www.foxsports.com/college-basketball/boxscore?id=226178

https://www.foxsports.com/mobile

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[HAAS_U]

Sounds like we have the white hair ref (Brian O’Connell) today. Oh joy!

[Lloyd Braun]

Nate Johnson off the schnide

[noteggs]

At least we are not going o for at the 3

[Lloyd Braun]

Not sure why we leave Duke to double the post wtf

[drudy23]

Not sure why we leave Duke to double the post wtf

Not smart - and you have to guard him at 30 feet. He will make them.

[HAAS_U]

There we go CJ!

[kellernr]

So what did Tandy do to drop to the bottom of the depth chart?

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[Lloyd Braun]

Wilcher with a hot hand nice to see. Not seeing Tandy play though is a bit maddening. His D isn’t great but neither is Zach’s, Kunk, or Wilcher.

Odom is a man. That is all.

[Lloyd Braun]

Draft kings at -4/140.5 currently.

I still like the under unless X gets their act together on offense. I suppose they are due.


Game line ended up at -4 and O/U went to 137.5!

And it looks like it will finish OVER of course.

[drudy23]

For the love of God, can we please find somewhere else for Jason Carter to go on offense besides standing on the 3 point line?

[Xavier]

What happened to freemantle

[X Factor]

Why take CJ out after draining two threes?

Why does Carter shoot threes?

We suck at FT's today.

[IM4X]

Not liking this lineup.

[bobbiemcgee]

So what did Tandy do to drop to the bottom of the depth chart?

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Last 5 ppg 2-3-6-2-6

[HAAS_U]

So what did Tandy do to drop to the bottom of the depth chart?

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According to Steele, Kyky’s not earning his minutes in practice.


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[sgarcia]

I have to assume that Tandy is gone after this season.

[IM4X]

For the love of God, can we please find somewhere else for Jason Carter to go on offense besides standing on the 3 point line?

He needs to just stop already.

There are much, much better shooters and then when he misses (which is very often) he is nowhere near the basket to be able to help rebound.

[IM4X]

Why take CJ out after draining two threes?

Why does Carter shoot threes?

We suck at FT's today.


Shanking my head at those two things too. Wilcher was feeling it... so... “Hey let’s take him out just long enough to let the opponent back in the game and then when Wilcher is cooled off a bit ... then we will put him back in.”

[drudy23]

He just needs to just stop already.

There are much, much better shooters and he then when misses (which is very often) he is nowhere near the basket to get a rebound.

And usually leads to an easy bucket on the other end.

[Xville]

I have to assume that Tandy is gone after this season.

Yeah I agree. Don’t understand going from about 15 minutes a game averaging almost 10 points a game to basically zero just because of “practice”

[bleedXblue]

We continue to hold onto the ball and not pass immediately out of double teams. We continue to let guys take 3's who shouldn't be. We continue to NOT STOP the ball and let guys get to the basket easily. When was the last time we took a charge? Clean up the basics!!

[xuphan]

We continue to hold onto the ball and not pass immediately out of double teams. We continue to let guys take 3's who shouldn't be. We continue to NOT STOP the ball and let guys get to the basket easily. When was the last time we took a charge? Clean up the basics!!

Was feeling so good about Steele at the beginning of the year but I am struggling with him of late. He needs to get this team playing fundamental basketball. To many individuals out there not playing as a team.

[Lloyd Braun]

Terrible charge call on Scruggs but saw it a mile away.

[drudy23]

What is wrong with Free?

[Xavier]

He’s been terrible. May be better for carter and griff for now

[RoseyMuskie]

Good to see Nate back in form.

Freemantle also needs to mature. He’s whiney every time he makes a poor play. Own it, and move forward.

[Lloyd Braun]

But he practices well....

[xudash]

Cut the bad passing/stupid turnovers out and they can build a lead.

[stammina0721]

Guys Freemantle just isn't good. He looks afraid. Can put up numbers out of conference but in conference he hides in his shell

Actually that is gonna be my new nickname for him. From now on I am gonna call Freemantle "The Turtle" since he hides in his shell during conference play.

[stammina0721]

Well the Turtle shoots FT better than Nate Johnson lol

[Xavier]

Just like the sub in wilcher first half- providence in a zone and Johnson gets subbed out after draining a 3. Just don’t understand why.

*another Freemantle blunder. Come on man

[GIMMFD]

Look absolutely awful defending inside.

[Strange Brew]

KyKy needs mins back from Klunkel.

[Lloyd Braun]

Watson always goes right. Make him go left... problem solved.

[Xville]

Free needs to hit the weight room big time. He is weak in the big East

[xuphan]

KyKy needs mins back from Klunkel.

Amazed KyKy isn’t getting minutes. Need his offense.

[noteggs]

Watson always goes right. Make him go left... problem solved.

Agreed and seems simple to fix

[drudy23]

Steele has to be proving some kind of stupid point to KyKy. Not sure why anyone would choose to watch Kunkel continue to throw up bricks.

I never have good feelings in close games against decent teams with him making decisions.

[Xavier]

He seems to have a fake toughness about him. Attitude and intensity seems to fade easily, especially against bigger players.

[xuphan]

He seems to have a fake toughness about him. Attitude and intensity seems to fade easily, especially against bigger players.

Who we talking about here?

[Xavier]

Who we talking about here?

Free

[Xavier]

Kunkel has been fine I think. Needs to hit those open 3s but has had some good drives and passes. And is that his second steal?

[xuphan]

Free

Freemantle has to play timid as a result of little to no options on the bench. If he gets into foul trouble, we have no depth to help out. Not sure why Steele didn’t get a transfer center to back him up.

[Strange Brew]

Free

Agree but he’s closing in on a double double.

Edit: almost a triple double with TOs tho.....

[RoseyMuskie]

Freemantle has to play timid as a result of little to no options on the bench. If he gets into foul trouble, we have no depth to help out. Not sure why Steele didn’t get a transfer center to back him up.

Griffin...

[Xavier]

Agree but he’s closing in on a double double.

Definitely true. I was giving him garbage throughout game then noticed he was leading scorer. Maybe his non con caused expectations to be too high? Still, he has another gear and consistency X needs him to play.

[sgarcia]

Freemantle has to play timid as a result of little to no options on the bench. If he gets into foul trouble, we have no depth to help out. Not sure why Steele didn’t get a transfer center to back him up.

We have Griffin and could always play with 4 guards since we have a ton of them. Stanley tearing his ACL last game was rough.

[xuphan]

Griffin...

Griffin is a 4. I like what Griffin brings but he is a 4. Not a 5.

[noteggs]

Griffin...

Plus he had Miles in fold as well

[Lloyd Braun]

Sure he’s leading scorer but has taken twice as many shots as anyone else.

[Xavier]

Kunkel has been fine I think. Needs to hit those open 3s but has had some good drives and passes. And is that his second steal?

*maybe not

[IM4X]

Come on guys... letting Duke shoot open shots

[Xville]

Kunkel can’t hit the broad side of a barn right now

[Lloyd Braun]

Where tf is Odom? Meet minutes restriction? Jones?

[Strange Brew]

Ballgame

[Blue Blooded-05]

They can’t miss. We can’t make. Same story different game

[IM4X]

Too late with the time out Steele. Why?

[Xville]

F Steele... his roster management is effing garbage. Fire his ass, this team is going nowhere again for the third straight year. Fucking love affair with unathletic white guys

[X-band '01]

See you all Saturday at Seton Hall. This one's over.

[HAAS_U]

Horrible play down the stretch... 11-0 run for the Friars.


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[Xavier]

Scruggs and Freemantle can’t fight through those screens is killer. Steele always bad at using time outs. Terrible loss

[stammina0721]

Freemantle has to play timid as a result of little to no options on the bench. If he gets into foul trouble, we have no depth to help out. Not sure why Steele didn’t get a transfer center to back him up.

This may be the worst excuse for being bad I've ever heard

[xuphan]

Too late with the time out Steele. Why?

My thoughts exactly. Why call a timeout now that the game is out of hand? There is to much talent on this team to be losing to mediocre teams like Seton Hall and Providence.

[KabeX]

Can't have stupid decisions by your seniors down the stretch and expect to do anything but lose.

[IM4X]

Can’t let Duke get an open look.

[GoMuskies]

Why come out of the press there?

[noteggs]

Ballgame

Maybe not?

[stammina0721]

8-16 from the FT line is huge

[Xavier]

Call off the press there? Why?

[Xville]

F Steele... his roster management is effing garbage. Fire his ass, this team is going nowhere again for the third straight year. Fucking love affair with unathletic white guys

Ok I apologize I really need to stop posting in game threads...it’s like road rage.

[xuphan]

This may be the worst excuse for being bad I've ever heard

Not an excuse but it is true. We don’t have a center to replace Fremantle when he gets into foul trouble. Miles isn’t good enough for minutes so that leads Carter and Griffin. With those options on the bench, I am sure Fremantle is told to not be to aggressive to stop him from getting into foul trouble.

[xuphan]

8-16 from the FT line is huge

They are shooting 60% from 3. Where the hell is the perimeter defense?

[stammina0721]

Not an excuse but it is true. We don’t have a center to replace Fremantle when he gets into foul trouble. Miles isn’t good enough for minutes so that leads Carter and Griffin. With those options on the bench, I am sure Fremantle is told to not be to aggressive to stop him from getting into foul trouble.

Whatever you gotta tell yourself man.

[Xville]

They are shooting 60% from 3. Where the hell is the perimeter defense?

Haven’t been good on d all year...where u been?

[IM4X]

I like the fight the last minute.

[Blue Blooded-05]

Gotta think Cooley is telling his squad to go 4 on 5 and let Carter shoot the game winner

[xuphan]

I like the fight the last minute.

To bad we don’t fight like this all game long.

[X-band '01]

Like I said, this game's over. See you Saturday at Seton Hall!

[xudash]

7 of 22 from 3.

F’ing YES!

[GoMuskies]

Holy fuck!

[HAAS_U]

Wow!!! Jones!!!


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[IM4X]

Now why can’t they pass like that all game

[Xavier]

Wooooowwwww

[Blue Blooded-05]

Boom!!! Steele is a genius!!!

[Xville]

Colby!!!!!!!!!!!!! Whew what a great freaking last minute holy shit

[xu82]

Piece of cake! Never had a doubt!

[Xavier]

Pass from Kunkel was great

[drudy23]

Might be a season saving shot

[GIMMFD]

Colby fucking jones, balls of steeel. Never in doubt.

[muskiefan82]

Sometimes, better lucky then good. Hell of a shot. Steel balls-ish.

[paulxu]

Don't know where Kunkel's 3 pt has gone. But he played a hard game.

Thank you Colby Jones!

[RoseyMuskie]

Colby!

[xuphan]

Colby!!!!!!!!!!!!! Whew what a great freaking last minute holy shit

Great shot Colby. Hope Steele can get this team to play some sort of perimeter defense.

[Xville]

Steele is the best coach we have ever had, this team is going to the final four, Colby for President!

[paulxu]

Like I said, this game's over. See you Saturday at Seton Hall!

hah! This did not age well :)

[GoMuskies]

That shot and that run saved the season.

[Xavier]

I mean man, team didn’t give up and fought well. Makes rest of wild card weekend more enjoyable

[X-band '01]

hah! This did not age well :)

No, you were supposed to quote my first one. That one was right after the Jones shot.

[whopper]

i just turned 65 and this is getting too much for me. A grinder of a game and everyone contributed and i was kyky happy at end as i dont want to lose him. Zach did put up numbers but did not play well. We did take their best shot.. Kunkel is a player pure and simple and made a big diffference. Shout out to Griffin too.

[XUGRAD80]

I will admit that I had given up and walked away after Prov. made their last 3-pointer. Came back to see the final 30 sec. WOW!

[paulxu]

Aaah, I screwed up that posting.

[XU 87]

Wooooo hooooooo!!!!

[RoseyMuskie]

I thought Steele handled lineup management much better today. He stuck with the guys who were playing best for the last 6-7 minutes, with the Carter/Jones balance.

[HenryMuto]

I wish I had got to see the game and the ending but stupid FOX wasn't showing the game in my area for some reason.

What a great weekend all 4 of my teams won in the same weekend that is like a once a year if I am lucky occurance.

[whopper]

i think you will hear from Cooley about 6 foul shots compared to 16. They only had 4 offensive rebound we had 11. Well played by both teams and have many providence friends some even ex players which makes me proud as an X dad of 2 from Conn. Now beat UConn(my alma mater) and make my day

[KabeX]

I will admit that I had given up and walked away after Prov. made their last 3-pointer. Came back to see the final 30 sec. WOW!
I did the same. Then my son started yelling so I went back to the man cave. Then the TV goes out right b4 we inbound the last possession. Pulled up the fox sports app just in time to see the celebration. I chalked this one up to an L. Glad I was wrong!

[boozehound]

Epic late game collapse followed by the best final minute I can remember. What a game!

[Jesuit4Life]

https://twitter.com/CBBonFOX/status/1348329807076089857

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[X-band '01]

i think you will hear from Cooley about 6 foul shots compared to 16. They only had 4 offensive rebound we had 11. Well played by both teams and have many providence friends some even ex players which makes me proud as an X dad of 2 from Conn. Now beat UConn(my alma mater) and make my day

But will he pressure the Big East office to change the outcome? Will he concede?

[GreatWhiteNorth]

X just escaped from a sure defeat. No easy game in the BE this year. I am glad that we did not give up but fight to the last second. Give credit to coach Steele.

[xavierj]

Xavier took Providence best game and pulled it out. Providence dead last in three point shooting in the BE and Xavier near the top defending it, at least percentage wise and today Providence goes 13 of 22, 59%. They shot better from 3 than 2. Xavier won the boards and had 20 assists on 29 shots. Crazy game.

[xudash]

7-22 from 3 at one point, and nothing but negativism, and criticism of Steele.

Colby makes it 8-23 and we have a change of mood, if you will.

Better perimeter defense you say. Can’t disagree. But Duke is a special player and was hot today.

Hindsight is easy, I guess.

I know we’re fans and we’re passionate about Xavier basketball, execution could have been better and maybe Travis bumbled a couple decisions, but they found a way to come back from an almost certain loss scenario.

[Xavier]

Honestly, I don’t read much into things said on game thread. Passionate fans that want team to win, get frustrated etc etc. just simple stuff you say at the bar during the game.

[N67ER]

Piece of cake! Never had a doubt!

I’m with you! All the negative Nelly‘s on this board drive me crazy. Was never in doubt. Just wanted to give providence a little false hope. Wow!

[Jesuit4Life]

I wish I had got to see the game and the ending but stupid FOX wasn't showing the game in my area for some reason.

You might be able to watch a replay later on the FOX Sports app. It's also scheduled to be shown again at 5:30AM tomorrow on FS1, so set your DVR.



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[bobbiemcgee]

Won my free bet - Xavier by 1-5

[paulxu]

Down 7 with 1 minute left...certainly cause to think the worst.
Scoring 8-0 in the last minute...hard to imagine.

But sweet !

[noteggs]

Don't know where Kunkel's 3 pt has gone. But he played a hard game.

Thank you Colby Jones!

Agreed he played hard and did things outside of his deep shooting. Not to say it’s an excuse, but wonder why he has two fingers wrapped together on his shooting hand.

[GIMMFD]

Xavier took Providence best game and pulled it out. Providence dead last in three point shooting in the BE and Xavier near the top defending it, at least percentage wise and today Providence goes 13 of 22, 59%. They shot better from 3 than 2. Xavier won the boards and had 20 assists on 29 shots. Crazy game.

Yup, I mean that stretch where they went up 7 with about 1:30 left was just ridiculous, hit everything, and it seemed like a sure fire loss. Next thing you know, defense just tightened up, Scruggs was disruptive, great turnover forced by Knunkel land next thing you know, have a chance to win, and Jones knocks down the clean look. That's resiliency, that's something you love to see. Obviously not the greatest game ever played, some missed easy shots, etc. but man, what a wayy to win.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Wow, LETS GO!

Man we were lucky to squeak that one out. That was a must win game and would have been a bad loss. Not because Providence is bad but because we HAVE TO win our BE home games. Definitely against those other teams we are competing with below Nova and Creighton. Those teams we are expecting a split with. To lost at home to two of those teams (SH and Prov) and then have to go on the road for the next couple would not have been good.

What a shot by Jones!

Oh, and are people really wondering why Kunkel gets more run than Kyky? I feel like I have seen that question on this board and on fbook and/or twitter. Seems pretty obvious now.

[UCGRAD4X]

Anybody know what the points of turnover stats were? I thought Xavier made some inroads near the end but seemed to be loosing that battle big time for most of the game.

[bleedXblue]

Could easily be 7-5 and we're 10-2. That's the way it goes sometimes. A lot of improvement needed still, but I'll take where we are right now.

[UCGRAD4X]

Gotta admit - normally a never-say-die kind of guy, I was sticking a fork in them at that last 3pt shot.

I can only imagine the wailing and gnashing of teeth if Jones missed that shot. It would have epitomized most of the game.

But he didn't!

And that's why we play the game...till the buzzer.

[usfldan]

Anybody know what the points of turnover stats were? I thought Xavier made some inroads near the end but seemed to be loosing that battle big time for most of the game.

https://goxavier.com/sports/mens-basketball/stats/2020-21/providence/boxscore/8933

Providence: 15 turnovers led to 17 points for Xavier.
Xavier: 13 turnovers led to 15 points for Providence.

[UCGRAD4X]

https://goxavier.com/sports/mens-basketball/stats/2020-21/providence/boxscore/8933

Providence: 15 turnovers led to 17 points for Xavier.
Xavier: 13 turnovers led to 15 points for Providence.

Thanks. Now I know where to fund that.

I am a bit surprised. Did not seem that way for a good stretch of the game.

[markchal]

Oh, and are people really wondering why Kunkel gets more run than Kyky? I feel like I have seen that question on this board and on fbook and/or twitter. Seems pretty obvious now.

Kyky is a really talented player, but it seems like most of what he does offensively isn't in the flow of things, it's 1-on-1. He also doesn't pop much outside of when the ball is in his hands...tough to make a case for him over any of the 9 guys ahead of him at this point. I liked the rotation we had today...wouldn't mind seeing more Kyky if his play in practice deserves it, but didn't really miss him out there today (this also speaks to how well Odom and Jones are playing).

[Section 200]

Great to come back from down 7 with 63 seconds left - nice to see the team battle until the end. Tough to win giving up 59% 3 pt % but they did!

[Three Point Pete]

I am open to feedback from op, but X looks like a 7-5 squad! Maybe they need to consistently hit free throws, protect ball better to limit tos and feed the bigs in the post instead of bricking it from another zip code. I get excited as everyone else with buzzer beaters, but should they even be necessary in the first place? We have a deep bench with good shooters who may feel that they have to pop it because they don't play many minutes. In the meantime, until X improves on their fundamentals, I'll relish W's anyway we get them. GO X


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[xu82]

I am open to feedback from op, but X looks like a 7-5 squad! Maybe they need to consistently hit free throws, protect ball better to limit tos and feed the bigs in the post instead of bricking it from another zip code. I get excited as everyone else with buzzer beaters, but should they even be necessary in the first place? We have a deep bench with good shooters who may feel that they have to pop it because they don't play many minutes. In the meantime, until X improves on their fundamentals, I'll relish W's anyway we get them. GO X


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I think we are one Uber driver short of undefeated!

[bobbiemcgee]

or testicles de metale

[XUGRAD80]

I am open to feedback from op, but X looks like a 7-5 squad! Maybe they need to consistently hit free throws, protect ball better to limit tos and feed the bigs in the post instead of bricking it from another zip code. I get excited as everyone else with buzzer beaters, but should they even be necessary in the first place? We have a deep bench with good shooters who may feel that they have to pop it because they don't play many minutes. In the meantime, until X improves on their fundamentals, I'll relish W's anyway we get them. GO X
Sent from my SM-G935P using Tapatalk

I’ll totally agree with the free throw shooting. Coach says they work on it everyday, but we’ve heard that for over 2 years now and whatever they are doing isn’t working.

I’ll disagree on the turnovers. They had 13 today which really isn’t high for most teams. The type of turnovers and where they happen is more important than how many there are. They are MUCH better this year compared to the last 2 years when it comes to live ball turnovers near 1/2 court. When you take into consideration how many minutes the freshman are seeing, I’m very pleased with their ball handling overall. Freemantle had 6 TO’s today, but almost all of them were either traveling or not catching a ball. A few others were when they tried to feed players down low and the pass was intercepted. Which brings me to the 3rd point.

They absolutely need to NOT concentrate on feeding the “bigs in the low post”. WHO are they going to feed? Xavier doesn’t have any real low post players that are going to back anyone down and score over them, especially against the players that SH and Providence have down low. Their offense works best when the players are moving and sharing the ball. Their best players are their wings and guards. Even Freemantle and Carter do best when they are catching the ball away from the basket and using their quickness to drive by the larger and slower players. The LAST thing they should be doing is posting up, receiving a pass, trying to back the larger players down low, while the rest of the team stands around and watches......which is what we saw for the last 2 years.

[bobbiemcgee]

Maybe ask Brad Redford for some help since he made 208 of 215 FT's as a hs senior:

https://www.mlive.com/highschoolsports/2020/06/former-frankenmuth-xavier-standout-brad-redford-remembers-the-free-throws-he-missed.html

[Xville]

It is concerning that they are extremely close to being 7-5. They did the same thing last year, and then they came back to the law of averages. This team has some good pieces, and I am excited for the future of the freshman class. However, with the sophomore class starting to look thin, and a pretty lackluster ‘21 class, program really needs to hit in ‘22 big time. There’s some good, and there is some bad here...but hey the team is 10-2 and top 5 in the league, they finish there, they will be in the tournament and that’s all that I really care about this year

[D-West & PO-Z]

Kyky is a really talented player, but it seems like most of what he does offensively isn't in the flow of things, it's 1-on-1. He also doesn't pop much outside of when the ball is in his hands...tough to make a case for him over any of the 9 guys ahead of him at this point. I liked the rotation we had today...wouldn't mind seeing more Kyky if his play in practice deserves it, but didn't really miss him out there today (this also speaks to how well Odom and Jones are playing).

Yeah, and could you ever imagine him making that pass Kunkel did to Scruggs at the end there?? No way.

[xukeith]

Yeah, and could you ever imagine him making that pass Kunkel did to Scruggs at the end there?? No way.

Jamal Crawford, Tu Holloway, and KyKy Tandy would not have passed that ball. Same as for Scruggs' pass with the knowledge of the clock.

[Xville]

Jamal Crawford, Tu Holloway, and KyKy Tandy would not have passed that ball. Same as for Scruggs' pass with the knowledge of the clock.

Tu and Jamal would have shot and made it..kyky not so sure yet

[paulxu]

Going into the game, Scruggs was leading the BE in assists, and led us today.
He is so much more effective when he realizes he's out maned and dishes it off.
Last pass to Jones a perfect example. Was perfect.

[XUGRAD80]

This team has some good pieces, and I am excited for the future of the freshman class. However, with the sophomore class starting to look thin, and a pretty lackluster ‘21 class, program really needs to hit in ‘22 big time.

https://247sports.com/Article/Ask-EBoss-senior-scouting-Jaden-Hardy-Trevor-Keels-158898849/

Very good Q and A article here regarding recruiting for class of 22. Main point is that it is extremely difficult for coaches to scout and recruit HS players right now and that there will probably be more reliance on recruiting transfers because of more available tape on them. Worth a read.

[xu 89]

can someone link the joe sunderman call of jones 3..

[AviatorX]

It is concerning that they are extremely close to being 7-5. They did the same thing last year, and then they came back to the law of averages. This team has some good pieces, and I am excited for the future of the freshman class. However, with the sophomore class starting to look thin, and a pretty lackluster ‘21 class, program really needs to hit in ‘22 big time. There’s some good, and there is some bad here...but hey the team is 10-2 and top 5 in the league, they finish there, they will be in the tournament and that’s all that I really care about this year

Wait when did we decide the '21 class is lackluster?

Agreed on your overall perspective, though. Before the season, I would have been ecstatic and think the team exceeded expectations with a 7 seed, and significantly frustrated if they missed the dance. We're definitely closer to the former and despite the bumps, I think the team has a WAY higher ceiling than I expected if the shooting boomerangs back closer to what it was the second part of the season.

[MHettel]

Griffin is a 4. I like what Griffin brings but he is a 4. Not a 5.

If Griffin is not a 5, then I think I want to learn more about your definition of a 5.

Do you watch?

[AviatorX]

If Griffin is not a 5, then I think I want to learn more about your definition of a 5.

Do you watch?

Seriously. Griffin is closer to a 6 than a 4 (at least at this level, no idea what he was able to do in D2).

[xavierj]

It is concerning that they are extremely close to being 7-5. They did the same thing last year, and then they came back to the law of averages. This team has some good pieces, and I am excited for the future of the freshman class. However, with the sophomore class starting to look thin, and a pretty lackluster ‘21 class, program really needs to hit in ‘22 big time. There’s some good, and there is some bad here...but hey the team is 10-2 and top 5 in the league, they finish there, they will be in the tournament and that’s all that I really care about this year

What is your expectations for sophomores? Zach has been a home run for the most part, KyKy has had some big moments and definitely has talent, but is in a funk or doghouse or whatever, Miles was a project all along and is hurt and Ramsey hasn’t been healthy and was just cleared from something other than what kept him out last year, and Bishop was was home sick. The freshman class is obviously showing some serious promise and they have two pretty solid guys on paper coming in.

So hopefully everyone sticks and we add a couple of pieces in ‘22 but we don’t necessarily need them to be starters right off the bat. I hope in two years the starters are Odom, KyKy/Kunkel, Jones, Freemantle and Miles/Tucker. Then have off the bench KyKy/Kunkel, Wicher, Miles/Tucker/Edwards, Ramsey (if he ever gets healthy) and whoever comes from the ‘22 class. You get a guy in the ‘22 class that is a starter right away then that guy will be really good. Talent will be there and the future is bright. You really only want to play 8 or maybe 9 guys many minutes anyway. Xavier didn’t bring in any 5 stars that were considered immediate studs, but rather a couple of low 4 stars and a couple of 3 stars so other than injuries they are doing what you would hope, except the current situation Tandy is looking at, after his solid freshman year and the first few games this year.

[Xville]

What is your expectations for sophomores? Zach has been a home run for the most part, KyKy has had some big moments and definitely has talent, but is in a funk or doghouse or whatever, Miles was a project all along and is hurt and Ramsey hasn’t been healthy and was just cleared from something other than what kept him out last year, and Bishop was was home sick. The freshman class is obviously showing some serious promise and they have two pretty solid guys on paper coming in.

So hopefully everyone sticks and we add a couple of pieces in ‘22 but we don’t necessarily need them to be starters right off the bat. I hope in two years the starters are Odom, KyKy/Kunkel, Jones, Freemantle and Miles/Tucker. Then have off the bench KyKy/Kunkel, Wicher, Miles/Tucker/Edwards, Ramsey (if he ever gets healthy) and whoever comes from the ‘22 class. You get a guy in the ‘22 class that is a starter right away then that guy will be really good. Talent will be there and the future is bright. You really only want to play 8 or maybe 9 guys many minutes anyway. Xavier didn’t bring in any 5 stars that were considered immediate studs, but rather a couple of low 4 stars and a couple of 3 stars so other than injuries they are doing what you would hope, except the current situation Tandy is looking at, after his solid freshman year and the first few games this year.

1 out of the 5 sophomores that were recruited are contributing at this point. I consider that an issue. If kunkel ever starts, that’s an issue, and miles may not ever be anything and tucker? He hasn’t even hit campus yet.

[xuphan]

If Griffin is not a 5, then I think I want to learn more about your definition of a 5.

Do you watch?

Yes, I watched him play D2 last year. He was a 4 at the D2 level.

[RetireFiftyTu]

can someone link the joe sunderman call of jones 3..

https://twitter.com/XavierGameday/status/1348360951381200896?s=20

[xavierj]

1 out of the 5 sophomores that were recruited are contributing at this point. I consider that an issue. If kunkel ever starts, that’s an issue, and miles may not ever be anything and tucker? He hasn’t even hit campus yet.

With Tucker that’s why I said on paper. Miles is a project and always has been so if you had high expectations by his 2nd year you were setting yourself up for disappointment. Ramsey feel bad for the kid. Kunkel probably won’t be a starter but he was on the best player as a sophomore on a team that won 26 games and was heading to the NCAA tourney. Tandy except for the past few games, due to not playin much, was where you would hope. He was an all big East freshman and started the season pretty solid. So I feel good about where the sophomore and freshman group is, along with Kunkel who will be in the same class as the current sophomore group. You hit on either Tucker or Edwards or both, then you are setup for some really good success moving forward. But this team is 10-2 so enjoy the ride or just be miserable, whatever works.

[xavierj]

Yes, I watched him play D2 last year. He was a 4 at the D2 level.

You might want to let the Xavier coaches know that as they consider him and are playing him at the 5.

[XUGRAD80]

KyKy HAS contributed this year, but IS squarely in a the dog house currently. That doesn’t mean that can’t or won’t change in the future. I’d suspect that if Kunkel hadn’t gotten the unexpected waiver that KyKy would be getting more of an opportunity. I further expect that is exactly what X was planning on happening this year, Kunkel sitting and KyKy playing. The problem right now is that KyKy hasn’t shown that he can do anything consistently better than any other player, and he has shown that he doesn’t do some things as well as others. But there is certainly a lot of season left and he may well still end up being a very valuable part of the teams success. When he does get back on the floor watch to see how he is as far as setting picks, switching on defense, making the correct pass, don’t get hung up on his scoring (or lack of it).

But always remember that if he does return, he will still have another THREE years of eligibility. The same is true for Miles and Ramsey. In essence, next season will be their sophomore seasons. This season is kinda like a prep year between HS and college. Not only is there a lot of season left, there’s a lot of college career left for all of them. It’s way to early to think of anyone of them as a bust or consider their lack of play a real issue.

[RetireFiftyTu]

KyKy HAS contributed this year, but IS squarely in a the dog house currently. That doesn’t mean that can’t or won’t change in the future. I’d suspect that if Kunkel hadn’t gotten the unexpected waiver that KyKy would be getting more of an opportunity. I further expect that is exactly what X was planning on happening this year, Kunkel sitting and KyKy playing. The problem right now is that KyKy hasn’t shown that he can do anything consistently better than any other player, and he has shown that he doesn’t do some things as well as others. But there is certainly a lot of season left and he may well still end up being a very valuable part of the teams success. When he does get back on the floor watch to see how he is as far as setting picks, switching on defense, making the correct pass, don’t get hung up on his scoring (or lack of it).

But always remember that if he does return, he will still have another THREE years of eligibility. The same is true for Miles and Ramsey. In essence, next season will be their sophomore seasons. This season is kinda like a prep year between HS and college. Not only is there a lot of season left, there’s a lot of college career left for all of them. It’s way to early to think of anyone of them as a bust or consider their lack of play a real issue.

Tandy's minutes started to dwindled exactly when Kunkel was surprisingly ruled eligible.

Tandy MPG before Kunkel was ruled eligible: 28.6
Tandy MPG after Kunkel was ruled eligible: 8.7
Kunkel MPG since becoming eligible: 19.2

[IM4X]

I do have to say I loved seeing the scrappiness late in the game and the full court press which lead to a few steals and buckets.

I sure hope we see a lot more of it moving forward, as well as the kind of passing we saw on the last play.

[bleedXblue]

I do have to say I loved seeing the scrappiness late in the game and the full court press which lead to a few steals and buckets.

I sure hope we see a lot more of it moving forward, as well as the kind of passing we saw on the last play.

Don't understand why we didn't press more, even at half court with Providence having very few good ball handlers. We have the bodies for playing at a higher pace, yet we almost refuse to do it. This team isn't a good half court, man to man defensive team.

Also, the ball movement is back to last years pace with almost every player holding onto the ball for 3-4 seconds before they pass. Especially frustrating is not seeing the double team coming and immediately moving the ball. We were doing so much better earlier in the year. I don't get it.

Hoping it's just a funk we are in.......

[WCWIII]

Cooley's presser and local Providence coverage (here (https://www.providencejournal.com/story/sports/college/basketball/2021/01/10/providence-college-xavier-big-east-basketball/6615609002/)).

Couple other thoughts ...
Lots of different heroes. Nate Johnson is one who's contributions continue to exceed expectations.
I thought there was a stutter-step travel caused by Kunkel before the contact. For me, that was the right call.

Interesting statistically significant tidbit from KenPom: In close games at the half, the team with the lower 1st half 3-pt shooting percentage has a greater chance at winning. (some relevance to the recent game, applies better to others ... just a tidbit)

David Duke was spectacular.
Providence and Cooley are easily my favorite BE opponent in terms of respect.

[bleedXblue]

Cooley's presser and local Providence coverage (here (https://www.providencejournal.com/story/sports/college/basketball/2021/01/10/providence-college-xavier-big-east-basketball/6615609002/)).

Couple other thoughts ...
Lots of different heroes. Nate Johnson is one who's contributions continue to exceed expectations.
I thought there was a stutter-step travel caused by Kunkel before the contact. For me, that was the right call.

Interesting statistically significant tidbit from KenPom: In close games at the half, the team with the lower 1st half 3-pt shooting percentage has a greater chance at winning. (some relevance to the recent game, applies better to others ... just a tidbit)

David Duke was spectacular.
Providence and Cooley are easily my favorite BE opponent in terms of respect.

Duke is a great player and we let him wide open far too many times. He was the one player that could beat us and he almost did.

[drudy23]

The luck factor was on our side - again - we lose that game, and the mountain becomes REAL steep with our upcoming opponents.

I thought it was a competitive game between two decent teams. I agree we didn't do a great job on Duke, their best player. There's no reason the team's best player should be that open so often. If you're going to make a mistake, make it with someone else.

Steele teams never quit but how many times do we find ourselves in frantic situations as the game hangs in the balance? I'm always nervous down the stretch in close games with Steele. But not really much else to complain about this game.

[XU 87]

I thought it was a competitive game between two decent teams. I agree we didn't do a great job on Duke, their best player. There's no reason the team's best player should be that open so often. If you're going to make a mistake, make it with someone else.



I could be wrong, but for the most part I thought he made some tough threes, often with a guy in his face.

[drudy23]

I could be wrong, for the most part, but I thought he made some tough threes, often with a guy in his face.

A couple tough ones, and a couple open ones.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Don't understand why we didn't press more, even at half court with Providence having very few good ball handlers. We have the bodies for playing at a higher pace, yet we almost refuse to do it. This team isn't a good half court, man to man defensive team.

Also, the ball movement is back to last years pace with almost every player holding onto the ball for 3-4 seconds before they pass. Especially frustrating is not seeing the double team coming and immediately moving the ball. We were doing so much better earlier in the year. I don't get it.

Hoping it's just a funk we are in.......

My guess about the press is that it requires a significant amount of practice time to get it right in the games and do it effectively. So yes we can do it in spurts here or there but to do it for any sort of significant amount of time without eventually giving up some really easy buckets is probably hard to do without significant practice time devoted to it.

[Smails]

A couple tough ones, and a couple open ones.

Yeah, I would say it was about half and half. He got some wide open looks early and then hit some really contested shots as the game went on. With shooters, if they see the first few go in they are basically greenlit for the rest of the game. He never cooled off once after we let him run free in the first few sets.

[IM4X]

Don't understand why we didn't press more, even at half court with Providence having very few good ball handlers. We have the bodies for playing at a higher pace, yet we almost refuse to do it. This team isn't a good half court, man to man defensive team.

Also, the ball movement is back to last years pace with almost every player holding onto the ball for 3-4 seconds before they pass. Especially frustrating is not seeing the double team coming and immediately moving the ball. We were doing so much better earlier in the year. I don't get it.

Hoping it's just a funk we are in.......

Agree.

I thought we did a good job with the limited pressing that we saw. We certainly should use it more often. To me it felt like the team was a little lackadaisical on both offense and defense at times until the two little runs at the end. Imagine if Odom, Kunkel, Scruggs, Nate and Kyky played more aggressive on defense all of the time like we saw some of them (particularly Odom) a few minutes there yesterday. Was reminiscent of the X teams with Walker and Kimbrough. We have the speed and the bench (in case of fouls) to continue to play aggressive all game.

[xuwin]

Agree.

I thought we did a good job with the limited pressing that we saw. We certainly should use it more often. To me it felt like the team was a little lackadaisical on both offense and defense at times until the two little runs at the end. Imagine if Odom, Kunkel, Scruggs, Nate and Kyky played more aggressive on defense all of the time like we saw some of them (particularly Odom) a few minutes there yesterday. Was reminiscent of the X teams with Walker and Kimbrough. We have the speed and the bench (in case of fouls) to continue to play aggressive all game.

In yesterday's game I think Scruggs had 2 fouls and nobody else had more than 1. Xavier could afford to be much more aggressive on defense. Nobody was even close to foul trouble. Xavier needs to be more physical and take the other team out of their rhythm. They also need to be much quicker closing out on three's.

[markchal]

Yeah, I would say it was about half and half. He got some wide open looks early and then hit some really contested shots as the game went on. With shooters, if they see the first few go in they are basically greenlit for the rest of the game. He never cooled off once after we let him run free in the first few sets.

We also had to go to that zone to stop Watson from just utterly dominating us...afraid that will be a trend against any team with a decent big. When we go to zone, there's gonna be some open looks from 3 for them.

[D-West & PO-Z]

We also had to go to that zone to stop Watson from just utterly dominating us...afraid that will be a trend against any team with a decent big. When we go to zone, there's gonna be some open looks from 3 for them.

Yeah we are going to sturggle with really good bigs.

IMO, Griffin needs more playing time. He only played 10 mins yesterday and Freemantle played 38. Freemantle finished with a good looking line and I think he played much better down the stretch, but there were large portions of the game where he just looked completely out of it and not locked it. I think Griffin probably should have taken some of those 38 mins from Freemantle.

[drudy23]

I don't understand not using Griffin, especially in Big East play. Mostly for defense - if he scores, that's just icing on the cake. He's a big body that will compete.

[XU 87]

Freemantle finished with a good looking line and I think he played much better down the stretch, but there were large portions of the game where he just looked completely out of it and not locked it.

I agree. He ended up leading the team in scoring but he was 7-15 from the field and had 6 turnovers. I thought he missed some very makeable baskets. His Kenpom for yesterday was 83, which is well below average.

[boozehound]

Cooley's presser and local Providence coverage (here (https://www.providencejournal.com/story/sports/college/basketball/2021/01/10/providence-college-xavier-big-east-basketball/6615609002/)).

Couple other thoughts ...
Lots of different heroes. Nate Johnson is one who's contributions continue to exceed expectations.
I thought there was a stutter-step travel caused by Kunkel before the contact. For me, that was the right call.

Interesting statistically significant tidbit from KenPom: In close games at the half, the team with the lower 1st half 3-pt shooting percentage has a greater chance at winning. (some relevance to the recent game, applies better to others ... just a tidbit)

David Duke was spectacular.
Providence and Cooley are easily my favorite BE opponent in terms of respect.

I actually thought that the 'foul' that didn't get called could just as easily have been offensive, too. It looked like the ball handler lowered a shoulder into Kunkel and then pushed off at the end.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Looking at the box score, Johnson and Kunkel went a combined 0-4 from the FT line. Johnson was 14/15 from the FT line before yesterday for 93% on the season and Kunkel was 6 for 6 for 100%. So if those 2 who were shooting over 93% from the FT line go 4-4 then our total FT shooting would have been a respectable 12-16 for 75%.

[noteggs]

Yeah we are going to sturggle with really good bigs.

IMO, Griffin needs more playing time. He only played 10 mins yesterday and Freemantle played 38. Freemantle finished with a good looking line and I think he played much better down the stretch, but there were large portions of the game where he just looked completely out of it and not locked it. I think Griffin probably should have taken some of those 38 mins from Freemantle.

I think Griffin will get more minutes from time to time depending on the flow of the game. He also struggled to defend Watson as well. The only thing that seemed to work on Watson was when Steele went to backside help to double.

As for Zach, he looked much better in last 8 minutes and deserved to play down the stretch where he was pulled against St John’s. This is where I see the biggest growth in Steele. He’s figuring out end game rotations. Hopefully the last 8 minutes for Zach is a sign he’s getting out of his 3-4 game funk.

[Masterofreality]

So many great things about yesterdays game. So many.

1)Starting with Steele's coaching. Yes I said it.
-Adjusted defenses (press at times, zone at times, double and no double on Watson)
-Player useage (except I hate it when he just blatantly takes hot guys out-Like Nate Johnson- and doesn't let them go off. Too scripted)
-Offensive actions. (They used that action at the end with Kunkel's drive at least 4 other times and Providence didn't stop it once)
-Keeping guys calm and focused in the huddles in the last 1:17

2) Young guys being poised and "on it"
3) Nate getting his shot back
4) Kunk shot badly from out, but he played a fantastic floor game.
5) Colby just makes all the right plays, man. Every one. He threw the ball away a couple of times trying to force inside passes, but he is a marvel to watch- as a frosh!
6) I love Big Griff. Guy just does what he's asked to do.
7) CJ getting confidence and just knocking them down.

Our free throws just drive me insane. 50% is horrible, but we won.
Providence won't shoot like that ever again. EVER. But we won.

What a great victory. Too bad we have to wait another week.

One last thing. Watching the replay with Professional announcers like Tim Brando and Donny Marshall was a real treat. Those guys know what they were doing and called a super game.

[IM4X]

In yesterday's game I think Scruggs had 2 fouls and nobody else had more than 1. Xavier could afford to be much more aggressive on defense. Nobody was even close to foul trouble. Xavier needs to be more physical and take the other team out of their rhythm. They also need to be much quicker closing out on three's.

Absolutely, they could afford to give a few fouls... but they still need to be smarter about it. Like anticipating and jumping in front of more lazy passes (like Odom did).

Also agree they need to be faster at closing out on threes. Getting there With your hand up after the shot is off is about as helpful as not defending at all.

[Smails]

So in our last 2 conference games:

We shot 0% from 3 ...and won

Allowed our opponent to shoot 60% from 3....and won

Makes perfect sense

[drudy23]

So in our last 2 conference games:

We shot 0% from 3 ...and won

Allowed our opponent to shoot 60% from 3....and won

Makes perfect sense

Huh?

We made 8 of them yesterday.

[JTG]

My guess about the press is that it requires a significant amount of practice time to get it right in the games and do it effectively. So yes we can do it in spurts here or there but to do it for any sort of significant amount of time without eventually giving up some really easy buckets is probably hard to do without significant practice time devoted to it.

Generally if you press it starts after a made basket at your end. If it works to a turnover or you slow them way down, you do it again. It's not rocket science, in fact it's very effective. And we have a deep enough bench, that we could really pressure people.

[GIMMFD]

Huh?

We made 8 of them yesterday.

Yeah, he was saying 1st game we shot 0%, and this game let the opponent shoot 60%, was worded weird lol.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Generally if you press it starts after a made basket at your end. If it works to a turnover or you slow them way down, you do it again. It's not rocket science, in fact it's very effective. And we have a deep enough bench, that we could really pressure people.

Ha, I get how it works. I think you are vastly oversimplifying it in execution and in that all that is needed is depth.

[Smails]

Huh?

We made 8 of them yesterday.

First game referred to St. Johns..

Second game was yesterday...

I'll try to be clearer moving forward

[X-band '01]

One last thing. Watching the replay with Professional announcers like Tim Brando and Donny Marshall was a real treat. Those guys know what they were doing and called a super game.

Are you suggesting that young up-and-comers like John Fanta are not? Or is this more of a Dickey Simpkins shot across the bow?

[RetireFiftyTu]

So in our last 2 conference games:

We shot 0% from 3 ...and won

Allowed our opponent to shoot 60% from 3....and won

Makes perfect sense

Also pretty crazy that Xavier is 3-2 in conference play despite their two best players in Freemantle and Scruggs being at best okay. Xavier's Big East schedule so far hasn't been super difficult thus far but if Freemantle and Scruggs get back to playing like all-conference players then Xavier could maybe steal some games on the road against similar caliber teams like UConn, Providence, Marquette, and Seton Hall.

Freemantle in the non-conference vs in conference
18.7 PPG vs. 11.6 PPG
8.0 RPG vs. 7.8 RPG
2.3 TOVPG 2.2 TOVPG
62.6 FG% vs 37.0 FG%
69.7 2FG% vs. 40.5 2FG%
44.0 3FG% vs. 25.0 3FG%

Scruggs in the non-conference vs in conference
14.6 PPG vs 12.8 PPG
4.1 RPG vs 2.8 RPG
7.1 APG vs 5.0 APG
2.1 TOVPG vs 2.8 TOVPG
47.9 FG% 45.1 FG%
60.5 2FG% vs 43.8 2FG%
30.0 3FG% vs 47.4 3FG%

[IM4X]

Also pretty crazy that Xavier is 3-2 in conference play despite their two best players... if Freemantle and Scruggs get back to playing like all-conference players then Xavier could maybe steal some games on the road against similar caliber teams like UConn, Providence, Marquette, and Seton Hall.

Mark down at least one Nova game as a win for X (if we ever actually play them). Yes I said it. I don’t know how yet, but mark it down.

[Xville]

Also pretty crazy that Xavier is 3-2 in conference play despite their two best players in Freemantle and Scruggs being at best okay. Xavier's Big East schedule so far hasn't been super difficult thus far but if Freemantle and Scruggs get back to playing like all-conference players then Xavier could maybe steal some games on the road against similar caliber teams like UConn, Providence, Marquette, and Seton Hall.

Freemantle in the non-conference vs in conference
18.7 PPG vs. 11.6 PPG
8.0 RPG vs. 7.8 RPG
2.3 TOVPG 2.2 TOVPG
62.6 FG% vs 37.0 FG%
69.7 2FG% vs. 40.5 2FG%
44.0 3FG% vs. 25.0 3FG%

Scruggs in the non-conference vs in conference
14.6 PPG vs 12.8 PPG
4.1 RPG vs 2.8 RPG
7.1 APG vs 5.0 APG
2.1 TOVPG vs 2.8 TOVPG
47.9 FG% 45.1 FG%
60.5 2FG% vs 43.8 2FG%
30.0 3FG% vs 47.4 3FG%

Easier said than done of course, but I think it would benefit free if he put on some weight against the BE frontlines. As far as the comparisons, of course it is going to look like that when most of the competition were Toledo type talent in the non con

[bobbiemcgee]

Stats are nice but I'm going to have to buy a new couch and up the HBP meds if these heartattackkids keep this up.:lmao:

[Masterofreality]

Are you suggesting that young up-and-comers like John Fanta are not? Or is this more of a Dickey Simpkins shot across the bow?

Oh, no. My Cleveland boy Johnny Fanta is the Real. His uncle was our Assistant Pastor for a while and his family is great.
It was a Dickie Simpkins (and others) shot.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Also pretty crazy that Xavier is 3-2 in conference play despite their two best players in Freemantle and Scruggs being at best okay. Xavier's Big East schedule so far hasn't been super difficult thus far but if Freemantle and Scruggs get back to playing like all-conference players then Xavier could maybe steal some games on the road against similar caliber teams like UConn, Providence, Marquette, and Seton Hall.

Freemantle in the non-conference vs in conference
18.7 PPG vs. 11.6 PPG
8.0 RPG vs. 7.8 RPG
2.3 TOVPG 2.2 TOVPG
62.6 FG% vs 37.0 FG%
69.7 2FG% vs. 40.5 2FG%
44.0 3FG% vs. 25.0 3FG%

Scruggs in the non-conference vs in conference
14.6 PPG vs 12.8 PPG
4.1 RPG vs 2.8 RPG
7.1 APG vs 5.0 APG
2.1 TOVPG vs 2.8 TOVPG
47.9 FG% 45.1 FG%
60.5 2FG% vs 43.8 2FG%
30.0 3FG% vs 47.4 3FG%

Also of note, while the schedule hasnt been super hard yet, we also have only played one of the bottom 4 teams. So we have 7 games left against the bottom 4. IF somehow we can manage to stay locked in against those 4 and sweep them than we would be guaranteed at least 10-10 record in BE. I know it isnt easy to sweep even the bottom teams but we probably really need to make sure we go at least 6-2 minimum against those 4 teams.

[xukeith]

Agree with beating bottom 4 with at least 6-2 record. Playing against the top 4(VU, CU,SH, UConn) needs at least 2 wins for resume,
At Marquette and At Providence will be a dog fight. Hope X splits those 2.
Looking like 11-9 or 10-10 BE record. Hope X wins out.

[Masterofreality]

Something that Joe and Byron talked about last night on the Travis Steele show:
In the coaches huddle before the last play setup for “The Shot”, there was a discussion about who should be on the floor for that play. Originally Colby was not going to be out there, but Assistant Trey Scotti- THE VIDEO COORDINATOR - convinced Travis Steele to put Colby in and on the floor. The fact that Steele listened to his assistant, then put in a play that made him an option just elevates Steele in my eyes.
I’ve said on this board for years that really good assistants on a staff make really good Head Coaches. I haven’t always been sure that Travis has been well served during games by his staff, but this appears to be corrected.
I love that story.

[xavierj]

Something that Joe and Byron talked about last night on the Travis Steele show:
In the coaches huddle before the last play setup for “The Shot”, there was a discussion about who should be on the floor for that play. Originally Colby was not going to be out there, but Assistant Trey Scotti- THE VIDEO COORDINATOR - convinced Travis Steele to put Colby in and on the floor. The fact that Steele listened to his assistant, then put in a play that made him an option just elevates Steele in my eyes.
I’ve said on this board for years that really good assistants on a staff make really good Head Coaches. I haven’t always been sure that Travis has been well served during games by his staff, but this appears to be corrected.
I love that story.

That’s a great story and agree about assistants being so important. Coaches that think they have to control everything and don’t let the assistants coach and have a say are doing themselves an injustice.

[XUGRAD80]

Something that Joe and Byron talked about last night on the Travis Steele show:
In the coaches huddle before the last play setup for “The Shot”, there was a discussion about who should be on the floor for that play. Originally Colby was not going to be out there, but Assistant Trey Scotti- THE VIDEO COORDINATOR - convinced Travis Steele to put Colby in and on the floor. The fact that Steele listened to his assistant, then put in a play that made him an option just elevates Steele in my eyes.
I’ve said on this board for years that really good assistants on a staff make really good Head Coaches. I haven’t always been sure that Travis has been well served during games by his staff, but this appears to be corrected.
I love that story.

He mentioned it in his post game radio comments also.

[drudy23]

Does that say anything about our current assistants?

[XUGRAD80]

Does that say anything about our current assistants?

That they are pretty smart and not afraid to make suggestions?


It says this about Steele.....he’s not so big headed that he won’t take suggestions, AND that he is humble enough to give others the credit when they make good suggestions.

[Xavier]

I think he is saying- we have all these assistants and the video coordinator is the one who had to make the suggestion.

[Drew]

I think he is saying- we have all these assistants and the video coordinator is the one who had to make the suggestion.

Ugh, someone had a good idea and the coaches were humble enough to listen, to try and spin this as a negative somehow really takes some effort.

[GIMMFD]

Ugh, someone had a good idea and the coaches were humble enough to listen, to try and spin this as a negative somehow really takes some effort.

Seriously, a sign of a good leader is someone willing to listen to reason and adapt to his own ideals, come on man.

[Lloyd Braun]

I’m not a video coordinator but somewhere in this thread I was screaming for Jones to be in. I’m not down on Carter (or Kunkel) like many here but Jones and Odom were on the bench for the last 11 minutes of the game. Those guys might be our two best defenders other than Scruggs.

Agree that Trav listening to a video coordinator is a sign of a great leader. It also speaks volumes to the environment he creates that encourages ideas from all staff members.

[MADXSTER]

I’m not a video coordinator but somewhere in this thread I was screaming for Jones to be in. I’m not down on Carter (or Kunkel) like many here but Jones and Odom were on the bench for the last 11 minutes of the game. Those guys might be our two best defenders other than Scruggs.

Here is my take on defenders. For the guards I would say that Scruggs and Johnson are 1A and 1B. Those two are just super strong defenders and are very good with offside help. Kunkel would be next. He doesn't give the offensive player much room to operate before putting the ball on the floor even though he's under sized. Odom is next but does very good for a freshman but I would list him as a tad below average for Big East starter level. Tandy has shown the capability of being an average defender but obviously not often enough.

Colby Jones is NOT a guard.

[paulxu]

Colby Jones is NOT a guard.

But he plays one on TV.

[drudy23]

Ugh, someone had a good idea and the coaches were humble enough to listen, to try and spin this as a negative somehow really takes some effort.

I'm not spinning anything - they haven't given me a whole bunch of reasons to have blind faith yet.

Also not sure it says anything about Steele for the same reason. Could have been dumb luck.

I've had plenty of suggestions on this board that he seemed to do - most notable going to zone against St Johns - maybe he reads me at halftime!!!!

[Lloyd Braun]

Here is my take on defenders. For the guards I would say that Scruggs and Johnson are 1A and 1B. Those two are just super strong defenders and are very good with offside help. Kunkel would be next. He doesn't give the offensive player much room to operate before putting the ball on the floor even though he's under sized. Odom is next but does very good for a freshman but I would list him as a tad below average for Big East starter level. Tandy has shown the capability of being an average defender but obviously not often enough.

Colby Jones is NOT a guard.

I don’t think positions are relevant as much as which positions you can defend. Jones is as versatile defender X has. The lateral quickness is the best on the team. Scruggs gets away with a lot because he has such great length but just watch Jones move his feet.

Also... Jones might be a guard (https://goxavier.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/colby-jones/9187)

[drudy23]

Colby Jones is NOT a guard.

Um...

[xukeith]

Don’t we want Scruggs to take ownership of this team and go for the last shot?
I’m happy Jones made that 3 but I want Scruggs, Johnson or even Kunkel to go for their best shot. The odds say they have done it before and have higher probability for success. Just saying.

[drudy23]

Don’t we want Scruggs to take ownership of this team and go for the last shot?
I’m happy Jones made that 3 but I want Scruggs, Johnson or even Kunkel to go for their best shot. The odds say they have done it before and have higher probability for success. Just saying.

Both Scruggs and Kunkel passed up tough shots for better ones - I'd rather have that. In essence, they DID make the play happen.

[MADXSTER]

Don’t we want Scruggs to take ownership of this team and go for the last shot?
I’m happy Jones made that 3 but I want Scruggs, Johnson or even Kunkel to go for their best shot. The odds say they have done it before and have higher probability for success. Just saying.

The probability of making the open shot is much better than the probability of making a forced shot. I watched enough of that crap the last two years.

[D-West & PO-Z]

But he plays one on TV.

HAHAHA, well done.


I don’t think positions are relevant as much as which positions you can defend. Jones is as versatile defender X has. The lateral quickness is the best on the team. Scruggs gets away with a lot because he has such great length but just watch Jones move his feet.

Also... Jones might be a guard (https://goxavier.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/colby-jones/9187)

Yes he can guard 1-3 which is great.


Um...

My thoughts exactly. Since when is Colby Jones not a guard?? Need an explanation on that one.

[XUGRAD80]

UConn guard James Bouknight has had elbow surgery and is out indefinitely.

[xavierj]

Here is my take on defenders. For the guards I would say that Scruggs and Johnson are 1A and 1B. Those two are just super strong defenders and are very good with offside help. Kunkel would be next. He doesn't give the offensive player much room to operate before putting the ball on the floor even though he's under sized. Odom is next but does very good for a freshman but I would list him as a tad below average for Big East starter level. Tandy has shown the capability of being an average defender but obviously not often enough.

Colby Jones is NOT a guard.

Call him whatever you want but he does bring the ball up against the press, can handle the ball like a point guard, played point guard in high school, is a very good passer and guards guards a lot. So if he is not a guard he does a lot of things guards do. So yeah he is a three that can probably play the 1-4. Whatever he is, he will be a stud.

[xavierj]

Don’t we want Scruggs to take ownership of this team and go for the last shot?
I’m happy Jones made that 3 but I want Scruggs, Johnson or even Kunkel to go for their best shot. The odds say they have done it before and have higher probability for success. Just saying.

Come on now man. You can’t be serious.

[GIMMFD]

Don’t we want Scruggs to take ownership of this team and go for the last shot?
I’m happy Jones made that 3 but I want Scruggs, Johnson or even Kunkel to go for their best shot. The odds say they have done it before and have higher probability for success. Just saying.

No, you want whoever is in position to make that shot and has the best look, you should trust each of your teammates even if you're the guy, that's buying into TEAM basketball, it's a TEAM sport. Naji was amazing last year at hitting that Villanova style game winner, but it doesn't mean that's the only person to have that shot. I commend Scruggs, Johnson, Kunkel whoever else, in having the mindset to trust the teammate with the best look to knock it down.

[D-West & PO-Z]

UConn guard James Bouknight has had elbow surgery and is out indefinitely.

Wow thats big news. Wonder how long he is out. I would suspect a while with elbow surgery.

[bobbiemcgee]

Wow thats big news. Wonder how long he is out. I would suspect a while with elbow surgery.

Wow is right. Was Possibly BE POY

[XUGRAD80]

Don’t we want Scruggs to take ownership of this team and go for the last shot?
I’m happy Jones made that 3 but I want Scruggs, Johnson or even Kunkel to go for their best shot. The odds say they have done it before and have higher probability for success. Just saying.

“Past performance is no guarantee of future success.”

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”

There’s a lot of different ways to look at things like this. MJ always said that he missed more last second shots than almost anyone else ever took, even though he is famous for taking them and making them. But I’ll take an open shot over a forced shot any day. The odds are that someone shooting an open shot is more likely to make it, than someone shooting a forced shot. No matter when it occurs in the game. The key for me is more along the lines of who is taking that shot. X is fortunate enough THIS year to have multiple players that can take, and more importantly make, shots from the outside. I’m happy to see that A) his teammates trusted him enough to throw him the ball, and B) that Jones had the confidence to take the shot when given the opportunity. Great players elevate their game when the pressure mounts, lesser players shrink from it. I think Jones has a chance to be a great player. In fact, I think that all 3 of the freshman trio have a good chance to have great careers at X and am excited to see what they do over the rest of this year, and the next 4. I’d trust any of them to take a shot with the game on the line.

[bigdiggins]

Don’t we want Scruggs to take ownership of this team and go for the last shot?
I’m happy Jones made that 3 but I want Scruggs, Johnson or even Kunkel to go for their best shot. The odds say they have done it before and have higher probability for success. Just saying.

"Just like he envisioned, when Jordan caught the ball on the left wing and made a move on his defender, Bryon Russell, Stockton leaked over to help. After Jordan pump-faked and stepped through the double-team, he found Kerr, Stockton’s original assignment, wide-open at the top of the key. Kerr corralled the pass and let fly a 17-foot jumper, which swished through the net to give the Bulls an 88-86 lead with five seconds left."

If Jordan would make a pass, Scruggs should make a pass.

[Xville]

UConn guard James Bouknight has had elbow surgery and is out indefinitely.

Hate to see this as he is a great player and fun to watch. The silver lining in this, is that it makes a top 3 finish in the league for x much easier. I know, I know, but outside of the top 2, the rest of the league all have warts and it might as well be X that grabs the opportunity for a 3rd place finish.

[bleedXblue]

Hate to see this as he is a great player and fun to watch. The silver lining in this, is that it makes a top 3 finish in the league for x much easier. I know, I know, but outside of the top 2, the rest of the league all have warts and it might as well be X that grabs the opportunity for a 3rd place finish.

I don't think he plays another game for UCONN. Hes a first round pick next year and no reason to risk that.

[JTG]

He's only supposed to be out 2 to 4 weeks.