Travis Discussion

[OTRMUSKIE]

3.2.1... somebody take down this thread! You know the team and recruits read this?! Blah blah blah. The man simply can’t coach. Cut your ties and bring in Kelsey.

[XU 87]

Is this a joke?

[drudy23]

Coaching threads always seem to come back to Kelsey - it's like a rule.

And how can he not be on the hot seat if we end up not making the tournament? 3 years in a row is unprecedented in modern Xavier history.

This team also has less room for error because they've played less games. The benefit of the doubt will start to evaporate if we start losing multiple games in a row. The Big East is a beast - there aren't any easy wins left.

[XU_Lou]

Good grief, I hope you guys aren't serious.... Banners has the right take on this:

"To clarify: this isn't on Steele. Xavier had 20 days off, practiced twice, played Butler, had two more weeks off, practiced once, played UConn. Any take that focuses on anything other than that is a bad one. It's ludicrous to expect more than you got today."

https://twitter.com/BannersParkway/status/1360669000657690626

[OTRMUSKIE]

I agree with the time off and UConn is too good to
Lose 4/5. However, Nova was off for 19 days and hasn’t lost a beat. Now Nova is way better then Xavier but my problem is Xaviers defense seems to taken a huge step back. This loss doesn’t concern me. Six games left and hopefully they can make up a few more. UConn was the better team today and had the better coach.

[IM4X]

Good grief, I hope you guys aren't serious.... Banners has the right take on this:

"To clarify: this isn't on Steele. Xavier had 20 days off, practiced twice, played Butler, had two more weeks off, practiced once, played UConn. Any take that focuses on anything other than that is a bad one. It's ludicrous to expect more than you got today."

https://twitter.com/BannersParkway/status/1360669000657690626

Banners got this one wrong. It is very much on the coach. X was kicking UConn’s a$$ until Steele made several critical mistakes completely changing the momentum of the game and allowing subs to stay in while UConn went to town on them.

Steele not owning any of this is what is ludicrous. Not recognizing or at least not admitting to ways where he hurt his team is what gets people wondering if he is the right coach.

Personally, I think Steele is a classy guy who does a lot of things well, but he still has glaring blind spots that someone need to make him aware of. Apparently no one in the media wants to ask the questions that might help him become more aware of (and let him know others are aware of) those coaching blind spots.

[Xavier]

I didn’t like the hire in the first place. I’ve questioned him the past two years. I like the recruiting, especially players like Jones. The team has some strong shooters and guard play as a whole. Unfortunately, Zach is the only real Big for the future. I despise his coach speak, it seems so fake and reminds me of Mick
Some poor in game adjustments, too.

Still, Xavier sits at 11-3 with a win over a top 15 team. Unless things go extremely South they will be in the tournament comfortably. I have a lot of doubts but I do think I’ve seen improvement from last year. I really like the guards and shooters he is bringing in, I can start to see more of where he wants the team to be. He has been better at mixing in zones, the offense has more movement than last two seasons as well. Also starting to see some good play designs to get some shots off. Certainly a long way to go but I think I’ve seen coaching improvements. I’m willing to see how the rest of the year plays out. A win or two in the tournament wouldn’t surprise me one bit.

[UCGRAD4X]

Xavier beat Marquette after the first layoff and Buttheads after the second. I'm not sure how much of an excuse that is.

I think the "coach speak" comes from not having answers that make sense. Not having and understanding of why we win - and how to keep that going, and why we lose and how to change what went wrong. When you have no clue to what went wrong and deny your own part in that, all you have to offer is diatribes of cliches and denial.

[UCGRAD4X]

There also seem to be many posters who seem to be hanging their proverbial hat on comfortably a 7 - 10 seed and we are 10-3. I have two things to say about that. 2 home losses, one to bottom tier team, is not going to get us there. With so few games played and a gauntlet ahead, the record is likely to look a whole lot different if things don't improve quickly.

Is a 7 - 10 seed our goal (and it might be realistic at this point) but to dismiss losses because we are "still in", sounds like settling and does not get us to a level of excellence and a better position to final fours. I am not saying this team is capable of that, but they need to win games like today's to even dream of a sniff.

It's not really that I disagree with the reality of the situation. It is discouraging that this is what it has come to.

I expect excellence. I want them to challenge for and win this conference more often than not, and I guess I will just be a miserable old bastard until they achieve that level with some consistency. Yes, I see incremental signs of improvement, but too slow and too inconsistent and sporadic - so I may be an even more miserable and older bastard in the years to come, unless there are significant changes. That starts at the top.

#steelegottago

#sadtobeme

[XU 87]

Good grief, I hope you guys aren't serious.... Banners has the right take on this:

"To clarify: this isn't on Steele. Xavier had 20 days off, practiced twice, played Butler, had two more weeks off, practiced once, played UConn. Any take that focuses on anything other than that is a bad one. It's ludicrous to expect more than you got today."

https://twitter.com/BannersParkway/status/1360669000657690626

To some, practice and playing games is irrelevant to a team being able to play well. “Just get out there and play.”

[xudash]

To some, practice and playing games is irrelevant to a team being able to play well. “Just get out there and play.”

Sure, at this level, in the major sports, why practice at all?

[Xavier]

There also seem to be many posters who seem to be hanging their proverbial hat on comfortably a 7 - 10 seed and we are 10-3. I have two things to say about that. 2 home losses, one to bottom tier team, is not going to get us there. With so few games played and a gauntlet ahead, the record is likely to look a whole lot different if things don't improve quickly.



On one hand you expect the team to always compete for league titles and then turn around and refer to the remaining schedule as a gauntlet. Unless I’m missing something the remaining 6 games has 1 tournament lock.

[noteggs]

To some, practice and playing games is irrelevant to a team being able to play well. “Just get out there and play.”

Not to mention having 3 Freshman who have missed significant practice time because of covid in a very difficult transition period. Speaking of transition, how many new players do we have on this team without a normal preseason, practice time, and BE experience at this point?

[xavierj]

Yeah the fire the coach stuff is dumb. I don’t think Xavier can afford to be that program for a number of reasons. I think having a coach stick around for awhile is very important to keep the program viable. I think Travis is bringing in some quality guys and has some good pieces coming in next year and I would imagine they will try to get at least one impact transfer. Hopefully an athletic big that can also shoot a little. With all that said Travis is showing that he lacks the ability to make adjustments or go against his philosophy when it is needed.

Not sure it is stubbornness or lacks the ability to adjust. It was easy to see that the game plan for UConn was to let Free get his, don’t worry about Carter and then Odom when he was in and crowd Paul, Johnson and Kunkel and make them get the ball out of their hands. The problem was for a good part of the game Travis didn’t adjust. So when Carter was on the floor UConn was able to attack Paul and also help make shots a little more difficult for Zack but they were not going to let Xavier beat them from the outside. Travis should have taken Carter out and went 4 out most of the game but he didn’t. If Xavier had 4 guys on the floor that were a threat then Zack would had more room and they also would not have been able to crowd Paul as much and it would have been easier to score.

Hope Travis makes some adjustments because the current lineups isn’t going to get it done in my opinion. Every game will continue to be a struggle and losses will happen to very bearable teams. As it stands I just don’t see Xavier winning at Providence and Marquette even though they are not really good teams and also against Creighton at home because Travis is too predictable and the opposing coaches know it. Plus he just won’t adjust. I

[GIMMFD]

I agree that he can't miss the tournament this year, otherwise his seat should be hot, and I've defended Steele. I support him still, some of the decisions are still mind boggling, pulling those 4 and letting UCONN go on a tear was poor. This was a game we should have won, but as many posters said before the game you knew UCONN was going to come out hungry and seeking a win with how things have gone for them lately. They're a much much better team with Bouknight, but they still aren't bad in my opinion. I thought it was a good game, one we probably should have won however. I'm still not ready to close the door on Steele though. Sure, it's year three and there's still some dumb decisions being made, but I decided to do some searching through the board: A Fire Mack thread in 2011, which was Mack's third year, posters saying people wanted Matta and Miller fired in their 3rd years as well, hell even look through the "The Coach Chris Mack Reality" thread in 2014 which was Mack's 6th year.

My point is that sure it's year 3 and some of these decisions are dumb, and need to be changed/fixed, but we're 11-3 still, and even with a couple games where we haven't looked that great, we're still 11-3, the biggest benefit for us would be being able to actually play a bunch of games and get in rhythm moving forward, we've seen our past few coaches grow into the position and it takes some time, and you have to take the bad with the good. The biggest disadvantage Steele has is that he has to do his learning in the Big East, while even Mack started learning in the A10.

[XU 87]

Yeah the fire the coach stuff is dumb. I don’t think Xavier can afford to be that program for a number of reasons. I think having a coach stick around for awhile is very important to keep the program viable. I think Travis is bringing in some quality guys and has some good pieces coming in next year and I would imagine they will try to get at least one impact transfer. Hopefully an athletic big that can also shoot a little. With all that said Travis is showing that he lacks the ability to make adjustments or go against his philosophy when it is needed. Not sure it is stubbornness or lacks the ability to adjust. It was easy to see that the game plan for UConn was to let Free get his, don’t worry about Carter and then Odom when he was in and crowd Paul, Johnson and Kunkel and make them get the ball out of their hands. The problem was for a good part of the game Travis didn’t adjust. So when Carter was on the floor UConn was able to attack Paul and also help make shots a little more difficult for Zack but they were not going to let Xavier beat them from the outside. Travis should have taken Carter out and went 4 out most of the game but he didn’t. If Xavier had 4 guys on the floor that were a threat then Zack would had more room and they also would not have been able to crowd Paul as much and it would have been easier to score. Hope Travis makes some adjustments because the current lineups isn’t going to get it done in my opinion. Every game will continue to be a struggle and losses will happen to very bearable teams. As it stands I just don’t see Xavier winning at Providence and Marquette even though they are not really good teams and also against Creighton at home because Travis is too predictable and the opposing coaches know it. Plus he just won’t adjust. I

Paragraphs, man, paragraphs!

[drudy23]

Being "in" the tournament right now means absolutely nothing. Nada. Zilch.

It is about making the tournament. Period. The next month will tell the tale if Steele should be on the hot seat. If they don't get there, if I'm the AD, Trav gets a serious talking to about being on the same page as to the expectations of the program. If it doesn't go well, you cut bait and move on. At a minimum, the coaching staff needs an upgrade then.

[XU_Lou]

Again - good grief!!! Do any of you think that, all PEDs aside, that Greg LeMond, Miguel Indurain or Lance Armstrong would've won any of their Tours De France by missing out on just one week of training prior to the race?

This thread is completely irrational...

[xu82]

Good grief, I hope you guys aren't serious.... Banners has the right take on this:

"To clarify: this isn't on Steele. Xavier had 20 days off, practiced twice, played Butler, had two more weeks off, practiced once, played UConn. Any take that focuses on anything other than that is a bad one. It's ludicrous to expect more than you got today."

https://twitter.com/BannersParkway/status/1360669000657690626

I must admit, it slightly disturbs me that I have to fully agree with you here. :-)

[Strange Brew]

I agree that he can't miss the tournament this year, otherwise his seat should be hot, and I've defended Steele. I support him still, some of the decisions are still mind boggling, pulling those 4 and letting UCONN go on a tear was poor. This was a game we should have won, but as many posters said before the game you knew UCONN was going to come out hungry and seeking a win with how things have gone for them lately. They're a much much better team with Bouknight, but they still aren't bad in my opinion. I thought it was a good game, one we probably should have won however. I'm still not ready to close the door on Steele though. Sure, it's year three and there's still some dumb decisions being made, but I decided to do some searching through the board: A Fire Mack thread in 2011, which was Mack's third year, posters saying people wanted Matta and Miller fired in their 3rd years as well, hell even look through the "The Coach Chris Mack Reality" thread in 2014 which was Mack's 6th year.

My point is that sure it's year 3 and some of these decisions are dumb, and need to be changed/fixed, but we're 11-3 still, and even with a couple games where we haven't looked that great, we're still 11-3, the biggest benefit for us would be being able to actually play a bunch of games and get in rhythm moving forward, we've seen our past few coaches grow into the position and it takes some time, and you have to take the bad with the good. The biggest disadvantage Steele has is that he has to do his learning in the Big East, while even Mack started learning in the A10.

11-3 with 2 buzzer beaters. Could easily be looking at 9-5 or worse.

[XUGRAD80]

I agree with the time off and UConn is too good to
Lose 4/5. However, Nova was off for 19 days and hasn’t lost a beat.

Creighton 86 Nova 70....you were saying? :biggrin:

[XU_Lou]

Creighton 86 Nova 70....you were saying? :biggrin:

Not that it's a moral victory or anything like that, but X only lost by 5 at the same venue.

Meanwhile, #12 OK just beat #14 at WVU....

[OTRMUSKIE]

Creighton 86 Nova 70....you were saying? :biggrin:

I was saying the 19 days they were off they came back and won. That was weeks ago that happened. They lost today on the road after playing a few games the last couple of weeks. Not sure what that really means but after they were off for 19 days they actually won.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Not that it's a moral victory or anything like that, but X only lost by 5 at the same venue.

Meanwhile, #12 OK just beat #14 at WVU....

How did Xavier miss on that deuce kid from Moller?

[JEHARDI]

I agree with the time off and UConn is too good to
Lose 4/5. However, Nova was off for 19 days and hasn’t lost a beat. Now Nova is way better then Xavier but my problem is Xaviers defense seems to taken a huge step back. This loss doesn’t concern me. Six games left and hopefully they can make up a few more. UConn was the better team today and had the better coach.
Clown,
Hope you caught the Nova game...

[drudy23]

How did Xavier miss on that deuce kid from Moller?

Huggs got in early. Before it was obvious he was going to be a stud.

I don't even know that X was ever a major player - even with dad going here. Seems like a miss.

[xuwillie]

So wait are we now comparing a shitty Steele team to a 2 seed at worst Villanova team? Man has X fans gotten complacent

[GIMMFD]

How did Xavier miss on that deuce kid from Moller?

3*, think only Akron, Miami, Toledo, Kent State, Ohio and Dayton offered other than WVU. Plus 2019 class where we signed Kyky and Dahmir Bishop.. Duece is good, damn good, but he really grew into his Sophomore year.

[GoMuskies]

This pandemic year is goofy for sure, so no matter what happens Steele is going to get a bit if a pass on this year. But he really is on the precipice of being in trouble. We've flirted with disaster all year, and have been pretty lucky to mostly avoid it. That's great, but it also means it wouldn't be at all surprising for disaster to start finding us. We don't have a lot of margin for error on the Tournament front. And if we have a bad stretch and don't make it this year, next year would be 100% make or break for Steele.

A win at St. John's would let everyone rest easier.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Clown, what’s your point? Xavier hadn’t played in forever and lost. Nova hadn’t played in forever and won. Does it mean anything? Prob not. But Travis still has a lot to prove:

[XUGRAD80]

I was saying the 19 days they were off they came back and won. That was weeks ago that happened. They lost today on the road after playing a few games the last couple of weeks. Not sure what that really means but after they were off for 19 days they actually won.



X was off 11 days in December and then beat Marquette. X was off 20 days in January and then beat Butler. Villanova has had 1 long shutdown over the last week of December and through Jan 19 and then beat SH by 2. This was the 3rd extended shutdown by X this season. At this point there’s really no way to compare the 2....1 shutdown vs 3 shutdowns.....and come up with any real conclusions.

[XUGRAD80]

Clown, what’s your point? Xavier hadn’t played in forever and lost. Nova hadn’t played in forever and won. Does it mean anything? Prob not. But Travis still has a lot to prove:

I really don’t get statements like this...”Travis still has a lot to prove.” ? To who? Does anyone really think that he is worried about proving himself to fictional people on a message board? Y’all might as well just realize that as long as he has the support of the administration and his bosses, he doesn’t have to prove anything to anyone else. So you don’t like him..he hasn’t proven himself to you...so what!? That mans absolutely nothing to anyone who actually has a say in his employment. I’m starting to believe that there are some people here that are living in fantasy land and actually believe their opinions mean anything. They don’t.

[whopper]

honestly if we don't get a combined 12 points and 12 rebounds from the power forward piston(Carter, Griffen, Miles(maybe) would have been Stanley(sigh) there is not enough firepower or defense to win. Sometimes you just need better play and it comes from looking in the mirror. St Johns will tell us all we need to know.. they beat Villanova, UConn, Providence, Marquette, Depaul (and lost to Butler). This is not Trevon, JP, Karem, Naj bailing us out from a scrappy team where we expect to win, this is a dogfight with all hands on deck. I was in MSG last year on Wash Birthday with a scalped courtside seat in the St Johns section when Zach hit the winner and looking at box both Carter and Tandy had 10 each! Carter 7 Reb and Tandy 3 assists. That "could" happen Wednesday(Garden was rocking last year and we came back), will it? We shall see

[xavierj]

honestly if we don't get a combined 12 points and 12 rebounds from the power forward piston(Carter, Griffen, Miles(maybe) would have been Stanley(sigh) there is not enough firepower or defense to win. Sometimes you just need better play and it comes from looking in the mirror. St Johns will tell us all we need to know.. they beat Villanova, UConn, Providence, Marquette, Depaul (and lost to Butler). This is not Trevon, JP, Karem, Naj bailing us out from a scrappy team where we expect to win, this is a dogfight with all hands on deck. I was in MSG last year on Wash Birthday with a scalped courtside seat in the St Johns section when Zach hit the winner and looking at box both Carter and Tandy had 10 each! Carter 7 Reb and Tandy 3 assists. That "could" happen Wednesday(Garden was rocking last year and we came back), will it? We shall see

Yeah Tandy had 10 pts 3 assists last year. Scored in double figures 9 times in Big East play last year as a freshman and made big East all freshman, and was getting about 24 minutes a game last year the last 10 games. played really well this year when he got a lot of minutes and now can’t see the floor on a team that frankly struggles to score at times and isn’t really a great defensive team. Something doesn’t add up. To be honest this team really has not shown improvement from where it started and that is concerning. I get the Covid stuff, which probably has hurt the freshman more than anything, but you can’t tell me right now that a healthy Kyky can’t give the team more than Odom is right now.

[Xville]

I really don’t get statements like this...”Travis still has a lot to prove.” ? To who? Does anyone really think that he is worried about proving himself to fictional people on a message board? Y’all might as well just realize that as long as he has the support of the administration and his bosses, he doesn’t have to prove anything to anyone else. So you don’t like him..he hasn’t proven himself to you...so what!? That mans absolutely nothing to anyone who actually has a say in his employment. I’m starting to believe that there are some people here that are living in fantasy land and actually believe their opinions mean anything. They don’t.

Of course our opinion doesn’t matter, but with that said, I think the statement that Travis still has a lot to prove is spot on. I don’t know any of the higher ups in the administration, but I would wager to guess that if (and it’s a hypothetical if), this team doesn’t make the tourney, there are going to be some serious discussions about the direction of the program. Basically my thought would be that Travis would have the following year to make or break. 3 years of not making the postseason is not acceptable and the basketball team is a significant revenue and exposure source for the university. Now, none of that has happened yet, but even still, Travis has a lot to prove as a head coach..he hasn’t done squat yet.

Not saying let’s fire the guy tomorrow. I more than anyone want him to succeed because I think he is one that may actually stay. However, he has a lot to still improve upon:

-sub patterns
- lineup mgmt
- making x and o adjustments based on the flow of the game
- taking some accountability for his shortcomings. His coach speak is garbage.

[whopper]

Yeah Tandy had 10 pts 3 assists last year. Scored in double figures 9 times in Big East play last year as a freshman and made big East all freshman, and was getting about 24 minutes a game last year the last 10 games. played really well this year when he got a lot of minutes and now can’t see the floor on a team that frankly struggles to score at times and isn’t really a great defensive team. Something doesn’t add up. To be honest this team really has not shown improvement from where it started and that is concerning. I get the Covid stuff, which probably has hurt the freshman more than anything, but you can’t tell me right now that a healthy Kyky can’t give the team more than Odom is right now.

looking at jan 6 Carter had 11 pts and 16 rebounds? Zach 5, Scruggs 10, Odom 11, Colby 16, Tandy 2, Kunkel 2 Nate J 2, Stanley 3 p 4 reb in 8 minutes Griffin 7 and 8 in 14 minutes. That is actually a very strange box score but would love to see it again. It just shows how unpredictable basketball is. No commentary here but this was only 6 weeks ago

[bleedXblue]

Defense was poor and the one guy who couldn't beat us, did. That in my opinion CAN'T happen.

[UCGRAD4X]

Defense was poor and the one guy who couldn't beat us, did. That in my opinion CAN'T happen.

They keyed on our #1 and shut him down. We either could not shut down their #2 or did not scheme to do so.

Either way - epic fail.

[OTRMUSKIE]

And yes Xavier def cares about fictional message board authors. TV pays them money but so do we. If this continues, there will be less and less fictional message board authors in the seats.

[xavierj]

This is the thing. Travis keeps saying we need to figure out the defense and while true, he said in the press conference the offense is fine, we will score points. But is that true? Maybe it’s the shutdowns holding them back, but currently they rank 6th in the Big East in defensive efficiency and 7th in offensive efficiency. To be honest with the pieces on this team, that’s not good. Something is missing on offense.

I don’t know if it’s because the bigs can’t finish and that’s putting too much pressure on the shooters, or they need to change the offensive scheme and play more 4 out with only 1 big in the game. If you do that you force the other team to go smaller. When you play teams that are big like UCONN, Seton Hall and Marquette, wouldn’t it make sense to go smaller and make a big play an athletic shooter to create mis-matches and force them to take a big out? It probably would help Zach get cleaner looks and also provide an extra scoring punch. In my opinion playing Carter and Zach together as much as they do is making it more difficult to score the ball than it needs to be.

[XUGRAD80]

And yes Xavier def cares about fictional message board authors. TV pays them money but so do we. If this continues, there will be less and less fictional message board authors in the seats.



What does a coach have to do to “prove” himself to you?

[UCGRAD4X]

What does a coach have to do to “prove” himself to you?

Beat teams he should beat, especially at home.

Not get out-coached by...well, everybody.

[XUGRAD80]

Beat teams he should beat, especially at home.

Not get out-coached by...well, everybody.

And who decided what are the teams he should beat, and just how and when he is out coached?

All just a matter of opinion, isn’t it?

[xavierj]

And who decided what are the teams he should beat, and just how and when he is out coached?

All just a matter of opinion, isn’t it?

It is a matter of opinion but sometimes you can tell when a coach is out coached. I believe he was out coached yesterday. Hurley had a game plan from the jump to let Zach get his and stop Scruggs and Johnson from getting comfortable. Due to the fact that Carter was in for a good part of the game until Xavier got down double digits, it allowed the game to get away. Travis should have recognized that early and forced them to guard 4 perimeter players instead of just having to guard 4 guys. They were allowed to bring extra pressure on Paul because they didn’t have to worry about Carter hurting them. Should have probably took Carter out and played Jones and Wilcher more.

Take Paul off the ball and let Jones create a little, maybe find Paul on some drive and dish type plays. Jones is very good driving to the basket and either drawing contact or by finding the open man. Also on defense Travis let Paul take Cole the entire game and it wasn’t working. Change up the defense, maybe put Jones or Johnson on Cole. What happened was Paul was struggling to keep up with Cole and he also became gassed because of it. Paul was battered all game and it wore him out because he he to deal with extra pressure on offense and also had to chase Cole all game. Travis didn’t adjust so in my view he was out coached.

[Xville]

And who decided what are the teams he should beat, and just how and when he is out coached?

All just a matter of opinion, isn’t it?

The teams he should beat..probably the ones at home when you are favored and the other team has their best player out for starters.

Being out coached is pretty easy to see. Basketball really isn’t that complicated of a game, it is nothing like the other three major us sports, or soccer where scheme and managing is way more involved in my opinion. Not saying me or anyone here can be a high d 1 basketball coach, but I think we have seen enough to know if a coach’s game plan or sub pattern is crap.

[UCGRAD4X]

I wonder why some here seem to think we shouldn't have an opinion. When praising, that's ok, when criticizing, it seems that justification is demanded. If we can't speculate, debate and form an opinion bases on each individual 'eye test' (granted my eyesight is getting more questionable as time goes by). Other than the bar stool at Dana's, where are we supposed to have those discussions.

[markchal]

I wonder why some here seem to think we shouldn't have an opinion. When praising, that's ok, when criticizing, it seems that justification is demanded. If we can't speculate, debate and form an opinion bases on each individual 'eye test' (granted my eyesight is getting more questionable as time goes by). Other than the bar stool at Dana's, where are we supposed to have those discussions.

Totally agree...it's weird when people try to attack any opinions. The whole point of this message board is discussing and BSing about our favorite team/program. Are all of the posts fair, articulate, and well-reasoned? Of course not, some people are just venting in the game thread. But if the team/program didn't inspire this level of passion/fanaticism, there'd be a whole lot less people at the games.

Does anyone's opinions truly matter on if Jordan or LeBron is better? No, it won't literally change anything concrete, but sports fans like to debate stuff like that.

So when a coach definitely has had a rockier start to his tenure than his predecessors, I think it's fair there may be a split of opinions on the message board dedicated to the team he coaches.

[xudash]

Direct, sincere question: how long of a rocky road did Miller have until he got it going in the right direction? I can’t remember.

[XUGRAD80]

I’m not attacking opinions, I’m attacking opinions based only on limited data, and/or based only on unfounded expectations.

Fact...Xavier coaches see every practice, see all the practice and game film, know when a player is hurting or not playing well in practice, and generally know 10X the information we who only sees the team play on TV knows. Heck, even what we do see on TV isn’t everything that is happening, as the TV camera tends to follow the ball.

Fact...Steele has been a high level coach for more years than anyone else here. (Doesn’t make him perfect, but certainly makes his opinions and observations more valuable than mine)

Fact....Xavier was picked 7th in the preseason poll....they are now tied for 4th, that’s overachieving vs expectations

Fact...Xavier had exactly ONE player selected to any preseason all league team,

Opinion (mine)....Xavier’s roster was overvalued by many here and the team expectations by many were too high. They have a lot of holes in the roster, some of which can only be solved by time and practice. Both of those things are in short supply this year. I heard they had only ONE practice in the last 20 days before playing UConn. You don’t become a better player, or better team, by riding the stationary bike in your dorm room. They need practice time and game experience. They are actually ahead of where I thought they would be, 14 games into the season.

Opinion (mine)....Xavier will struggle against teams with lots of inside size. To think otherwise is foolish.

See the difference?

I don’t say he got out coached because I don’t know all the facts or all the reasons for him doing what he did. I’m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt because of his experience and his greater knowledge of the roster. I don’t act like my knowledge and basketball expertise is more than his...because it’s not. It’s Ok to have a different opinion. It’s also OK for me to think it’s foolish to place my knowledge (or for others to place theirs) ahead of a professional with his experience.

When I saw the size that UConn had starting and also on the bench, and heard that Griffin wasn’t available, I expected X to get beat on the boards and to struggle if they weren’t extremely hot from beyond the arc. I didn’t expect them to win going into the game, so I’m not overly disappointed with the outcome. I understand their roster limitations and accept them for what they are.

So go ahead, voice your opinion. It’s your right. It’s also mine to think that some of y’all were to overly optimistic going into season.

[xavierj]

I’m not attacking opinions, I’m attacking opinions based only on limited data, and/or based only on unfounded expectations.

Fact...Xavier coaches see every practice, see all the practice and game film, know when a player is hurting or not playing well in practice, and generally know 10X the information we who only sees the team play on TV knows. Heck, even what we do see on TV isn’t everything that is happening, as the TV camera tends to follow the ball.

Fact...Steele has been a high level coach for more years than anyone else here. (Doesn’t make him perfect, but certainly makes his opinions and observations more valuable than mine)

Fact....Xavier was picked 7th in the preseason poll....they are now tied for 4th, that’s overachieving vs expectations

Fact...Xavier had exactly ONE player selected to any preseason all league team,

Opinion (mine)....Xavier’s roster was overvalued by many here and the team expectations by many were too high. They have a lot of holes in the roster, some of which can only be solved by time and practice. Both of those things are in short supply this year. I heard they had only ONE practice in the last 20 days before playing UConn. You don’t become a better player, or better team, by riding the stationary bike in your dorm room. They need practice time and game experience. They are actually ahead of where I thought they would be, 14 games into the season.

Opinion (mine)....Xavier will struggle against teams with lots of inside size. To think otherwise is foolish.

See the difference?

I don’t say he got out coached because I don’t know all the facts or all the reasons for him doing what he did. I’m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt because of his experience and his greater knowledge of the roster. I don’t act like my knowledge and basketball expertise is more than his...because it’s not. It’s Ok to have a different opinion. It’s also OK for me to think it’s foolish to place my knowledge (or for others to place theirs) ahead of a professional with his experience.

When I saw the size that UConn had starting and also on the bench, and heard that Griffin wasn’t available, I expected X to get beat on the boards and to struggle if they weren’t extremely hot from beyond the arc. I didn’t expect them to win going into the game, so I’m not overly disappointed with the outcome. I understand their roster limitations and accept them for what they are.

So go ahead, voice your opinion. It’s your right. It’s also mine to think that some of y’all were to overly optimistic going into season.

I agree with a lot of what you said but with the size disadvantage do you think it would have been smart to game plan around that and maybe go smaller and take Carter out and force their bigs to come out and guard the perimeter? Opening up driving lanes and maybe get better looks from three?

[XU 87]

Direct, sincere question: how long of a rocky road did Miller have until he got it going in the right direction? I can’t remember.

About 2.5 years. He turned things around first few weeks of February of his third year, and that same February includes losing to Duquesne.

[XUGRAD80]

I agree with a lot of what you said but with the size disadvantage do you think it would have been smart to game plan around that and maybe go smaller and take Carter out and force their bigs to come out and guard the perimeter? Opening up driving lanes and maybe get better looks from three?

Now see...THAT’S what I call a good discussion. It’s a strategy discussion that doesn’t just say, so and so sucks and doesn’t know what they are doing.

To answer.....that what they did late in the game when they had their comeback. It works only as long as the players make shots, because if they miss shots then X has virtually no chance of an offensive rebound. It also leaves X very susceptible to giving up offensive rebounds to the opposition. IMO that’s the biggest problem with the roster, lack of inside rebounding. Unfortunately yesterday with Griffin not be available, Carter not doing much, and Miles not able to do much more than tip balls (he had several on his hands but couldn’t grab them), that deficiency got exposed. I believe that Xavier’s game plan (based on what Larkin and Jackson discussed before the game) was exactly that....drive and dish our for 3 pointers....and it worked great when they hit 4/5 to open the game. After that, not so much.

[drudy23]

The main problem I see opposing coaches taking advantage of is our lack of ability to consistently score in the post. Zac will get some post points, but outside of him, where does it comes from? Coaches don't have to double Free on the post. Free also plays alot on the perimeter - which I think opposing coaches are fine with. He gets alot of open threes for a reason. He can knock them down, but it seems they're not afraid of Free beating them.

Same with Carter. He doesn't really score in the post and spends a bunch of time on the perimeter. He's also not a threat to opposing coaches on the offensive end.

Also, the second we get down, everyone starts hoisting 3's. I think we try too hard to use Free and Carter as stretch 4's, and they're not really elite at that role. The personnel doesn't fit the style. Seems we're trying to make it work because Steele wants to be Villanova so bad. Our wings are not NBA caliber athletes like they have at Villanova.

[XU 23]

I think this is the 3rd "Fire Travis" thread in the last three years.

[XUGRAD80]

I think this is the 3rd "Fire Travis" thread in the last three years.

At least

[XU 23]

At least

It's the new standard. Team has a bad game, call for the coach to be fired.

Maybe I should start posting "Hire Travis" threads every time we win.

[drudy23]

It's the new standard. Team has a bad game, call for the coach to be fired.

Maybe I should start posting "Hire Travis" threads every time we win.

These threads aren't the result of one game. Cmon, at least be honest in your evaluation.

It's a cumulation of 3 very average (and non NCAA producing) years so far. This is around the same timing Mack and Miller found their groove and took it to the next level. Time will tell, but I think most have many more reservations about Steele's ability to elevate once again.

Any other time, the "Xavier way" has risen from the ashes and proved us all wrong. Hope it happens again.

[IM4X]

It is a matter of opinion but sometimes you can tell when a coach is out coached. I believe he was out coached yesterday.

Yes he was.

[IM4X]

The main problem I see opposing coaches taking advantage of is our lack of ability to consistently score in the post. Zac will get some post points, but outside of him, where does it comes from? Coaches don't have to double Free on the post. Free also plays alot on the perimeter - which I think opposing coaches are fine with. He gets alot of open threes for a reason. He can knock them down, but it seems they're not afraid of Free beating them.

Same with Carter. He doesn't really score in the post and spends a bunch of time on the perimeter. He's also not a threat to opposing coaches on the offensive end.

Also, the second we get down, everyone starts hoisting 3's. I think we try too hard to use Free and Carter as stretch 4's, and they're not really elite at that role. The personnel doesn't fit the style. Seems we're trying to make it work because Steele wants to be Villanova so bad. Our wings are not NBA caliber athletes like they have at Villanova.

Good post.

[XUGRAD80]

I think that you do have to give the program a pass for this year...no matter how they end up good or bad, and it can still be very very good!

At present they are in the field according to 99% of the experts and have a solid record of 11-3. But the problem is they haven’t been able to practice and/or play consistently for almost the whole season, so there is really no way to judge them against what their potential is. If you want to judge them against their competition...well they are 11-3, can’t really complain about that. If you want to judge them based on how much they have improved this year...well they haven’t been able to practice more than a couple of times in the last 6 weeks, how do you expect to improve if you don’t practice? Let’s say they win 6-7 games in a row and become a solid seed in the tourney, then flame out. Well, did they win those games against teams that were understaffed because of COVID? What if they themselves have to take even more time off and stagger towards the end of the season short staffed and under prepared physically and mentally because of COVID? How do you judge them at that point based on either scenario?

So I think any way you slice it, you have to take this year out of the equation when trying to do a review. It’s not in any way, shape, or form anything close to being a normal year. You shouldn’t get too giddy if they finish it out on a really high note and you shouldn’t get really negative if they don’t.

[drudy23]

My barometer is a tournament bid - so for me, it's still up in the air.

If we miss the tournament for a 3rd straight year, the seat has to be a hot one. You can't mess around with waiting too long for a sport that is so essential to the identity and financial success of the school.

Yes, covid sucked - but everyone had to deal with it, not just Xavier.

[Xville]

My barometer is a tournament bid - so for me, it's still up in the air.

If we miss the tournament for a 3rd straight year, the seat has to be a hot one. You can't mess around with waiting too long for a sport that is so essential to the identity and financial success of the school.

Yes, covid sucked - but everyone had to deal with it, not just Xavier.

Yep and I'm getting really annoyed with the covid excuse. I'm still expected to perform and perform well in my job and expectations have not been lowered due to an external factor. It's an excuse, and it is bs. I have had to change and adjust on a daily basis due to the pandemic, and others have had to as well.

Xavier is not the only one that has had to deal with covid, everyone in college basketball has.

[XU 23]

These threads aren't the result of one game. Cmon, at least be honest in your evaluation.

It's a cumulation of 3 very average (and non NCAA producing) years so far. This is around the same timing Mack and Miller found their groove and took it to the next level. Time will tell, but I think most have many more reservations about Steele's ability to elevate once again.

Any other time, the "Xavier way" has risen from the ashes and proved us all wrong. Hope it happens again.

I understand this isn't a result of just one game, but this is at least the third one of these threads that have popped up during Steele's tenure after a bad loss. We didn't practice in 3 weeks and we also just didn't play well. It happens.

Mack's two worst teams were his 4th and 5th years. If you ask me, this wasn't really the time where he took it to the next level. Miller, on the other hand, missed the tourney his first year, barely got in his second year, and got a 9 seed his third year. Almost identical to Steele. Our NET is at 40 and I think we'd be comfortably in if the season ended today. CBS has us as an 8 seed even after the UConn loss. Plenty of games left to turn it around.

[Xavier]

My barometer is a tournament bid - so for me, it's still up in the air.

If we miss the tournament for a 3rd straight year, the seat has to be a hot one. You can't mess around with waiting too long for a sport that is so essential to the identity and financial success of the school.

Yes, covid sucked - but everyone had to deal with it, not just Xavier.

I’ve somehow turned into a Steele supporter on here (which isn’t good for him) but I’ve always felt the same as this. Making the tournament is always the expectation for the most part. I give a new coach a little time. Miss this year and of course it’s hot seat time. You miss this year and next year, you’re gone. In normal times you wouldn’t see a fight from me if you wanted a new coach gone after three straight misses to start his tenure. I just assume with how much the athletic department is losing this year they just can’t afford it.

The biggest difference is I don’t see them missing it this year at all.

[drudy23]

In saying all this, I don't think there's any chance he gets fired.

ADs are too concerned about losing the recruiting pipeline.

I just don't think we got the same caliber head coach this time. He's not even close, imo, to the coaching chops of Matta, Miller, and Mack.

[XU_Lou]

If we miss the tournament for a 3rd straight year, the seat has to be a hot one.

Did Duke, UK or Kansas go to the tournament last year?


Yep and I'm getting really annoyed with the covid excuse. I'm still expected to perform and perform well in my job and expectations have not been lowered due to an external factor. It's an excuse, and it is bs. I have had to change and adjust on a daily basis due to the pandemic, and others have had to as well.

Does your job require you to physically train to stay in top level shape - essentially using building blocks that prepare you to stay at that top level? Does your job require you to physically prepare for the competitors in your industry?

[drudy23]

Did Duke, UK or Kansas go to the tournament last year?



Does your job require you to physically train to stay in top level shape - essentially using building blocks that prepare you to stay at that top level? Does your job require you to physically prepare for the competitors in your industry?

Does Duke, UK, or Kansas have coaches that have earned the benefit of the doubt? What a stupid comparison.

You just compared Steele to Coach K - LOL

[XU_Lou]

Does Duke, UK, or Kansas have coaches that have earned the benefit of the doubt? What a stupid comparison.

You just compared Steele to Coach K - LOL

Here's a news flash for you bud - no one went to the tournament last year....

[whopper]

Here's a news flash for you bud - no one went to the tournament last year..... If Gillespie gets called for a block against Naj in regulation in MSG with no time left and hits 1 of 2 we have 20 wins and final of Big East. If Nze gets called for the illegal pick freeing Kamal Baldwin for the 3 last year we have 20 wins and a bye and never play another game.
I am not thrilled with some things and having been a Jason Carter in 1979 I would like to see him look in mirror and find a way to get 8 pt and 8 Reb with 25 minutes of play(and I love the guy and know what confidence loss is) and I would like to see more Griffin as he earned it with 7 and 8 in first St johns game. Given that St johns beat Villanova, Conn(at Conn) and Providence and Marquette and are at home I would think they are the betting favorite. Lets hope and let see everyone including the assistants get on board.

[drudy23]

Here's a news flash for you bud - no one went to the tournament last year....

Oh man, you got me, bud.

[paulxu]

Dean Smith and Coach K did not go to the tournament in their first 3 years at UNC and Duke.

[drudy23]

Griffin with limited minutes (pre covid) is a head scratcher for me.

[drudy23]

Dean Smith and Coach K did not go to the tournament in their first 3 years at UNC and Duke.

That was like 8 million years ago - again, a stupid comparison in the context of where Xavier sits right now in the college hoops pecking order.

[XU_Lou]

Oh man, you got me, bud.

So then you admit you lied about Steele not making the tourney last year?

[drudy23]

So then you admit you lied about Steele not making the tourney last year?

Huh?

We're not going down the "they would have made it last year" path.

Newsflash - they wouldn't have.

[XU_Lou]

Huh?

We're not going down the "they would have made it last year" path.

Newsflash - they wouldn't have.

Really? Tell that to the 39 bracketologists that had in them in the tourney:

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/2020/03/13/would-xavier-basketball-have-made-ncaa-tournament/5042653002/

Including Sports Illustrated: https://www.si.com/college/2020/03/19/march-madness-ncaa-tournament-bracket-2020

[Mrs. Garrett]

Griffin with limited minutes (pre covid) is a head scratcher for me.

Agreed. Given the minutes he deserves could probably average a double double.

Travis seems to pick the wrong guys to have too much confidence in. The past 2 it has been Jason Carter. The team at times struggles to score and he won't take the guy off the court who is afraid to shoot.

Either go big with Griffin at the 5 and Free at the 4 or go small and let Colby or Wilcher stand in the open corner and take the shots Carter won't take.

[Xville]

Huh?

We're not going down the "they would have made it last year" path.

Newsflash - they wouldn't have.

Don’t bother with this guy...seriously.

[XU_Lou]

Don’t bother with this guy...seriously.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDLLPW20y3U

[Xville]

In saying all this, I don't think there's any chance he gets fired.

ADs are too concerned about losing the recruiting pipeline.

I just don't think we got the same caliber head coach this time. He's not even close, imo, to the coaching chops of Matta, Miller, and Mack.

If hypothetically he doesn’t make it this year and next, I’d be pretty shocked if he isn’t gone. I have no inside knowledge to know for sure, but I would hope that again hypotheticallly 4 straight years of not making the tournament would be completely unacceptable.

[Dblue]

I'll admit that I felt the hiring of Steele was a mid-major level move - once you are in the big leagues, you have the option to hire those that have the experience.

After the hire, and with a very limited roster, I fully expected to have atleast 2 years with no NCAA Tourney. It's not saying I didn't want more, just what I felt was a realistic view.

Prior to COVID, I would have felt the need for a Tourney win. Now, 3 breaks with no practice to implement adjustments, keeping rhythms and timing fresh on the team - I again look at what I feel as a situation that sucks! I look at it that if I'm not allowed in my office, and if my company can't supply me with the tools necessary to do my job (computer, remote access to company systems, etc) then they can't expect me to perform as usual or they end up laying off or furlough.

At this stage, considering the situation of not having the number 1 coaching tool (practice) I am giving Steele a little benefit of the doubt. Regardless of how this season goes, next year in my view is at minimum win in the tournament or start looking around for other options.

[boozehound]

I think DBlue's assessment is pretty fair. The reality is that we aren't going to fire him and try to hire a new coach this year anyways, so we might as well settle in. I'm still on the fence, and not making the tournament this year won't necessarily push me over the edge. I do like some of the talent we have brought in this year (and last year), but they don't seem to have put it together yet. I still think this team is missing a good PG, and has been for years. Hopefully Odom ends up being that guy.

[UCGRAD4X]

I'm not saying they will, or that he doesn't deserve some leeway - both are a given.

I also don't think that some of the in-game coaching decisions he makes such as timeouts, substitutions, sensible personnel groupings, scheming, playing and adjusting to the situation and the strengths of his players individually and as a whole and taking responsibility afterwards, most of which have little to do with Covid.

Steel: prove me wrong. PLEASE!!!

[xudash]

I'll admit that I felt the hiring of Steele was a mid-major level move - once you are in the big leagues, you have the option to hire those that have the experience.

After the hire, and with a very limited roster, I fully expected to have atleast 2 years with no NCAA Tourney. It's not saying I didn't want more, just what I felt was a realistic view.

Prior to COVID, I would have felt the need for a Tourney win. Now, 3 breaks with no practice to implement adjustments, keeping rhythms and timing fresh on the team - I again look at what I feel as a situation that sucks! I look at it that if I'm not allowed in my office, and if my company can't supply me with the tools necessary to do my job (computer, remote access to company systems, etc) then they can't expect me to perform as usual or they end up laying off or furlough.

At this stage, considering the situation of not having the number 1 coaching tool (practice) I am giving Steele a little benefit of the doubt. Regardless of how this season goes, next year in my view is at minimum win in the tournament or start looking around for other options.

Finally. A voice - author - of reason.

[GIMMFD]

I think DBlue's assessment is pretty fair. The reality is that we aren't going to fire him and try to hire a new coach this year anyways, so we might as well settle in. I'm still on the fence, and not making the tournament this year won't necessarily push me over the edge. I do like some of the talent we have brought in this year (and last year), but they don't seem to have put it together yet. I still think this team is missing a good PG, and has been for years. Hopefully Odom ends up being that guy.

I agree, and I have high hopes for Odom to be honest. I think he's shown a lot of flashes of being that PG that can control a team, control the pace of the game and make the right decisions. Obviously as a freshman it's gonna take some growing pains, but I think he's been pretty good so far with all things considered. I also think Jones' calming presence on the ball and the fluidity of his game will translate as the two of them grow into their roles on the team. It's never a bad thing to have a couple good ball handlers.


I'm not saying they will, or that he doesn't deserve some leeway - both are a given.

I also don't think that some of the in-game coaching decisions he makes such as timeouts, substitutions, sensible personnel groupings, scheming, playing and adjusting to the situation and the strengths of his players individually and as a whole and taking responsibility afterwards, most of which have little to do with Covid.

Steel: prove me wrong. PLEASE!!!

Yeah, I think that's where the disconnect is coming the most is the in-game coaching decisions and the way he comes off in press conferences to some people. I don't think anybody on the board is saying that it's been a breeze for him, I think most recognize the challenges he faced with taking in the core 4, having to adapt to that, and now transitioning into his own guys and how he wants to shape the team, but it's the in game stuff and the explanations after that's frustrating people. I think there's potential for him to grow, didn't Mack credit him with our inbounds plays from a few years back when they were absolutely incredible? (serious question, I don't remember), so there's insight there, it's just putting everything together into a whole picture now.

[UCGRAD4X]

If that were true, I would have expected to see more of those inbound plays.

[XUGRAD80]

DBlue is right on the money.

[xavierj]

I agree, and I have high hopes for Odom to be honest. I think he's shown a lot of flashes of being that PG that can control a team, control the pace of the game and make the right decisions. Obviously as a freshman it's gonna take some growing pains, but I think he's been pretty good so far with all things considered. I also think Jones' calming presence on the ball and the fluidity of his game will translate as the two of them grow into their roles on the team. It's never a bad thing to have a couple good ball handlers.



Yeah, I think that's where the disconnect is coming the most is the in-game coaching decisions and the way he comes off in press conferences to some people. I don't think anybody on the board is saying that it's been a breeze for him, I think most recognize the challenges he faced with taking in the core 4, having to adapt to that, and now transitioning into his own guys and how he wants to shape the team, but it's the in game stuff and the explanations after that's frustrating people. I think there's potential for him to grow, didn't Mack credit him with our inbounds plays from a few years back when they were absolutely incredible? (serious question, I don't remember), so there's insight there, it's just putting everything together into a whole picture now.

Yeah I like Odom, but my fear is that he can’t shoot and to be a real threat and great PG you have to keep the defense honest and knock down some shots. If he doesn’t develop a three point shot I can see teams just sitting in the lane on him. That’s why I would play Tandy now instead of him because at least if Tandy is in the game, the defense has to guard him out beyond the three point line. Dwon has really struggled the last three games.

[XUGRAD80]

Yeah I like Odom, but my fear is that he can’t shoot and to be a real threat and great PG you have to keep the defense honest and knock down some shots. If he doesn’t develop a three point shot I can see teams just sitting in the lane on him. That’s why I would play Tandy now instead of him because at least if Tandy is in the game, the defense has to guard him out beyond the three point line. Dwon has really struggled the last three games.

The ONLY thing KyKy does better statistically than Odom is shoot the 3. In the same number of games, Odom is leading him in assists, rebounding, and FG%, and is roughly equal in TO’s. K is out scoring O by 2 pts a game, but O leads assists 3.7 to 1.3. (Which is equal to 5 extra team points per game). The eye test also tells me that O doesn’t take bad shots like K often does and that I will trust him against a pressing team much more than I would K. I’ve no problem with O playing the POINT over K.

[whopper]

The ONLY thing KyKy does better statistically than Odom is shoot the 3. In the same number of games, Odom is leading him in assists, rebounding, and FG%, and is roughly equal in TO’s. K is out scoring O by 2 pts a game, but O leads assists 3.7 to 1.3. (Which is equal to 5 extra team points per game). The eye test also tells me that O doesn’t take bad shots like K often does and that I will trust him against a pressing team much more than I would K. I’ve no problem with O playing the POINT over K.

If Gillespie gets called for a block against Naj and Nze gets called for an incredibly illegal screen freeing up Baldwin v Butler we would have made the 2019 tour (play in game) and 2020 non tournament (play in game). I am not complaining about the refs but that how close the "core 4" were (and should have done it). Good luck tonight and Bouknight tonight shows that UConn is a beast (damn my alma mater and don't really like them)

[boozehound]

Yeah I like Odom, but my fear is that he can’t shoot and to be a real threat and great PG you have to keep the defense honest and knock down some shots. If he doesn’t develop a three point shot I can see teams just sitting in the lane on him. That’s why I would play Tandy now instead of him because at least if Tandy is in the game, the defense has to guard him out beyond the three point line. Dwon has really struggled the last three games.

I think Dwon is supposed to be a serviceable shooter, he just hasn’t had to force anything. I could be wrong about that though.. He has a pretty tight handle which we have missed for a long time. The problem with KyKy is that he doesn’t play much defense and immediately starts chucking up questionable 3’s within 10 seconds of seeing the floor.

[xavierj]

I think Dwon is supposed to be a serviceable shooter, he just hasn’t had to force anything. I could be wrong about that though.. He has a pretty tight handle which we have missed for a long time. The problem with KyKy is that he doesn’t play much defense and immediately starts chucking up questionable 3’s within 10 seconds of seeing the floor.

Dwon is not good from three. Form is really ugly. To be honest if he had a good stroke he probably wouldn’t be at Xavier because he has the other tools to be a great PG. As for Kyky you have to let him play through that stuff. Good coaches will do that. With a scorer, you take the good with the bad. I think the defensive stuff is a little over the top. It was fine early this year and late last year. Good enough last year that he had several games late on the year playing 25 to 30 minutes a game and was doing well for a freshman. I just wish one time Travis would let him go like he did early in the season and see what happens, especially when the team is struggling to score.

[xuwillie]

Steele the right guy or not I’m not sure. Just tired of watching crappy offensive sets for 2+ years now. I think regardless he needs to hire a better offensive coach.

[bleedXblue]

Steele the right guy or not I’m not sure. Just tired of watching crappy offensive sets for 2+ years now. I think regardless he needs to hire a better offensive coach.

That was mentioned many, many times last year and the excuse was we didn't have enough shooters. Now we have shooters......so, now what?

[OTRMUSKIE]

Steele has coached undisciplined ball for 2.5 years. He is awful, He sucks, he has destroyed 35 years of winning all by himself. #tankforkelsey

[Xuperman]

That was mentioned many, many times last year and the excuse was we didn't have enough shooters. Now we have shooters......so, now what?


Steele has coached undisciplined ball for 2.5 years. He is awful, He sucks, he has destroyed 35 years of winning all by himself. #tankforkelsey

This sh!t is ridiculous. Our starters were 6 of 30 from 3.....SIX OF THIRTY!

Their BENCH was 7 of 11.

[Strange Brew]

Steele has coached undisciplined ball for 2.5 years. He is awful, He sucks, he has destroyed 35 years of winning all by himself. #tankforkelsey

Move on after this year or it could be a long climb back.

[XUBison]

I think Dwon is supposed to be a serviceable shooter, he just hasn’t had to force anything. I could be wrong about that though.. He has a pretty tight handle which we have missed for a long time. The problem with KyKy is that he doesn’t play much defense and immediately starts chucking up questionable 3’s within 10 seconds of seeing the floor.

And Z was supposed to be a New Jersey tough guy. I used to follow recruiting until I realized the recruiting rags were a total racket.

[Drew]

Legit giving the team a pass on this one. They had a ton of open looks, if they had been playing for the past month enough of those go in that we win against a good St. John's team. 11/38 from 3 only happens because of this COVID nonsense.

[Strange Brew]

And Z was supposed to be a New Jersey tough guy. I used to follow recruiting until I realized the recruiting rags were a total racket.

Tough for Free to play physical when he’s only has 5 fouls to give as the only big getting minutes.

[xavierj]

Steele the right guy or not I’m not sure. Just tired of watching crappy offensive sets for 2+ years now. I think regardless he needs to hire a better offensive coach.

The offensive sets are fine and they can score fine but it would be nice if Kunkel could make an open look. Xavier through their offense gets good looks from inside and outside but you have to make shots. Johnson was uncharacteristic from three last night too.

The problem with this team is they do not communicate well on defense, they lack toughness and they have no help right now down low to protect the rim and rebound the ball. Next game I would not start Carter and have Griffin off the bench first instead of Carter, Which not only would help the defense because you have a more athletic defender and rebounder, but probably also helps the offense a bit. Probably time to go small and start Scruggs, Johnson, Wilcher, Jones and Free, bring Tandy, Kunkel and Griffin off the bench. Shorten the rotation to 8 guys.

[bleedXblue]

Legit giving the team a pass on this one. They had a ton of open looks, if they had been playing for the past month enough of those go in that we win against a good St. John's team. 11/38 from 3 only happens because of this COVID nonsense.

What? They gave up 90 points?

[boozehound]

I really don't know enough about basketball to gauge the impact that all the time off (particularly from practice) has had on the team, particularly on defense. I'm kind of hoping for all of our sake that good defensive play relies heavily on experience and communication.

I can't see us giving up on Steele and hiring a new coach after this season for a variety of reasons. I don't necessarily have a strong opinion either way, but I do think that the quality of play under Travis definitely needs to improve noticeably.

[Xville]

He’s going to get at least next year. Hopefully between now and then he figures out how to improve drastically, and knocks it off with the Croninesque coach speak.

[boozehound]

The coach speak is definitely something that Steele can control now, and needs to. The buck stops with you, coach.

[drudy23]

The offensive sets are fine and they can score fine but it would be nice if Kunkel could make an open look. Xavier through their offense gets good looks from inside and outside but you have to make shots. Johnson was uncharacteristic from three last night too.

The problem with this team is they do not communicate well on defense, they lack toughness and they have no help right now down low to protect the rim and rebound the ball. Next game I would not start Carter and have Griffin off the bench first instead of Carter, Which not only would help the defense because you have a more athletic defender and rebounder, but probably also helps the offense a bit. Probably time to go small and start Scruggs, Johnson, Wilcher, Jones and Free, bring Tandy, Kunkel and Griffin off the bench. Shorten the rotation to 8 guys.

The offensive sets are fine when we actually run them. I would say that the majority of time that we run something, it results in success. However, it rarely happens because we settle for the first 3 pointer we see.

And more problematic, Steele seems perfectly fine with this. If Steele is demanding better execution in the halfcourt, there's zero chance we shoot over 40 threes in any game - ever. This tells me that part of Steele's own thought process is we're going to get hot and go on a run - so keep shooting them 6 seconds into the shot clock. It was baffling how many times we took a quick 3 and completely bailed St Johns out from having to play any defense in the halfcourt. Baffling.

And then to compound that, watch them get an easy bucket or open jumper on the other end as it opened up the court for them to create. Completely played right into their game, and it was never put to a stop. In fact, it got worse as the game played out. How he can stand on the sideline and watch us chuck up so many quick bricks without reigning that in is problematic - we saw it last year too.

[UCGRAD4X]

The final score itself (besides the fact that we lost) is telling. Steele let them determine the tempo. He played their game. He was out-coached pre-game, in-game and post-game.

What is it about Steele's stamp on this team that warrants any confidence or consideration?

Covid is not just a local phenomenon.

Deal with it. Adjust. Plan. Implement. Improve. Execute. It's what good coaches do.

Why should we expect less?

I thought we had progressed way beyond mid-major 'settling'.

[drudy23]

He also said in the post game presser that he's not worried about offense but the defense was unacceptable.

Does he not realize that his team's actions on offense completely put his team in a terrible spot to defend St Johns? I mean, cmon, this is the coach of a top 25 college program (at least we were) - and doesn't even realize his own offensive strategy was a detriment to his team.

It's just easier to blame "toughness" - welcome to Mick world.

[nuts4xu]

He also said in the post game presser that he's not worried about offense but the defense was unacceptable.



Last year he wasn't worried about the 3 point shooting, or the decision making from Quentin McAfee and Naji. But the cold 3 point shooting and terrible decision making were the biggest issues with last year's team. It is hard to watch our team make the same mistakes each game, on multiple possessions with out adjustment.

[AviatorX]

There are a lot of things to point to and fairly be concerned about with Steele, but I don't think I quite get picking apart press conferences. Does any coach ever say anything tethered to reality or valuable in those?

[nuts4xu]

Best case scenario, Steele figures it out, and gets this team back on track. We have seen it before with other coaches in this program, and it can happen again. But at some point you have to figure our luck runs out and one of our Head Coaches fails to figure out how to put the team on an upward trajectory again. We have been fortunate in this regard, we haven't made a bad hire since the 70's. But if Steele turns out to be in over his head at this level, the worst fear is we muddle around in mediocrity (or worse).

We are watching the last of the Mack recruits, and the current roster has been with Travis long enough to buy in to his vision. Travis has to own the shortcomings and take responsibility for correcting these issues. Coming on the post game show and blaming players will not buy any credibility from his team or Xavier Nation and won't bode well for his future.

I see signs of life, the talent we have, and the pieces are there if you use them correctly.

[xuwillie]

I really was hoping he'd have more control of the locker room once Naji and Q where gone. This doesn't seem to be the case and not sure why people think he'll improve on that by giving him one more year. Having said that I do think he'll get one more year due to covid and not because he deserves it.

[xavierj]

He also said in the post game presser that he's not worried about offense but the defense was unacceptable.

Does he not realize that his team's actions on offense completely put his team in a terrible spot to defend St Johns? I mean, cmon, this is the coach of a top 25 college program (at least we were) - and doesn't even realize his own offensive strategy was a detriment to his team.

It's just easier to blame "toughness" - welcome to Mick world.

This is true. They are shooting threes, which for the most part I am fine if the right guys take them when they are open, but someone has to get back when the shot goes up. Also you have to work the ball and make cuts to the basket to make the defense work and that did not happen last night. The reason Xavier scored as many as they did was due to the pace of the game, not great execution. The thing is I think St. John’s was like 283rd in the country in 2 pt fg % defense and instead of attacking that, Xavier launches 40 threes. Yikes.

One other thing. If Kunkel can’t knock down open shots he can’t be on the floor. Try to find someone who can. Maybe give Wilcher his minutes, but try something different. Kunkel is 28% from three on almost 4 threes shot per game. At Belmont he shot 27% and then 39% and now 28%, so maybe he is closer to 30% than what he made last year. He is shooting about the same amount of threes per game as Naji did last year, in less minutes and hitting at the same clip. Wilcher and Tandy are both making around 40% from three. Maybe they should get more opportunities.

[Mrs. Garrett]

My biggest problem the past 2 games has been defense. Specifically our guys standing flat footed and watching the other team shoot threes.

That and losing the hustle battle for 50-50 balls.

Maybe Travis doesn't command the respect of the guys. He comes off a little too nice and not intimidating.

Maybe they were tired, but the effort seemed to be lacking.

Also, when Carter is on the floor you're playing 4 on 5 on the offensive end because he has no confidence in his shot.

Put Tandy back in for his offensive if the issue is his defense because everyone has sucked on the defensive and they really aren't bringing it offensively either.

[GoMuskies]

If you put Tandy in, tell him he's going to play more than a few minutes so that he won't necessarily go shot hunting the minute he gets in.

[xavierj]

If you put Tandy in, tell him he's going to play more than a few minutes so that he won't necessarily go shot hunting the minute he gets in.

Agree. Maybe start him and let him figure it out. Can’t be any worse than what we are going through and he showed last year he is athletic enough to also put it on the floor and get to the rim. He didn’t do horrible and really only made one mistake on one of the shots he put up, but when you have been just sitting not being comfortable it is to be expected to be out of sorts. Have to get to used to game speed.

[drudy23]

I've said this from the beginning of the season. Planting Carter out on the 3 point line is plain stupid. I don't care if he can't score in the post - him simply being a THREAT in the post will open up more things for Free and open up the offensive flow to get better shots for the guys that should be shooting 3s.

Coaches could care less about guarding Carter when he's on the perimeter. He's ignored. He's wide open and still misses most 3s. Why he continues to stick him out there like he's some legit stretch 4 is beyond me. Why he continues to shoot 3s in beyond me. Get in the paint and do the dirty work - he's a much more productive asset getting 6 points and 10 boards than he is scoring double digit points.

He's not ignored when he's pulling down 15 boards and providing extra opportunity for the offense to execute. He's a role player, not a scorer. It's not hard to see that he could be very good in this role, and it's obviously better for the team. Put him in the best position for personal and team success.

Same for Free - fine, take the occasional 3 in a situation where you're pulling a legit big out to the perimeter. But don't fall in love with it.

Carter and Free are not Kris Jenkins, regardless of how much Steele wants them to be.

[Final4]

I’ve been around a long time and a season ticket holder for over 35 years. Hell I questioned the hiring of Dick Campbell I go back so far. I’m worried about the future of Xavier basketball.

In the past I was always confident that we had solid footing, a strong foundation. Mike Bobinski in my opinion was a very capable AD. In his 15 years he was responsible for the hiring of Matta, Miller and Mack. In addition, we had the benefit of two university presidents, spanning 30 years, that recognized the value of basketball to Xavier’s overall success.

Now we have Greg Christopher who I think never had to make a “high profile” hire in his professional career. I think Steele was an easy pick. A safe hire. But very possibly not a good hire. Couple that with the fact that we now have a new university president who may not share Hoff/Graham’s vision of the basketball program’s relative importance to Xavier. I’m worried.

[boozehound]

There definitely seems to be a major issue with discipline, both on the defensive end and on offense. It almost feels like this team doesn't really have any identity on offense. I think that early in the season when multiple guys were on hot shooting streaks they thought that that our identity was going to be hitting tons of 3 pointers per game. Since that has dried up they are sticking with it vs. making adjustments. Maybe guys will find their shot from here on out and we will go on a run to end the season that will make all of us look stupid, but I kind of doubt it at this point.

[drudy23]

There definitely seems to be a major issue with discipline, both on the defensive end and on offense. It almost feels like this team doesn't really have any identity on offense. I think that early in the season when multiple guys were on hot shooting streaks they thought that that our identity was going to be hitting tons of 3 pointers per game. Since that has dried up they are sticking with it vs. making adjustments. Maybe guys will find their shot from here on out and we will go on a run to end the season that will make all of us look stupid, but I kind of doubt it at this point.

It's not that we can't shoot 3s, it's that we're so one-dimensional, it's easy to guard. Coaches have ZERO concern for our post game. It's why Free is getting 20+ points a game but playing crappy. Massive perimeter pressure.

You cannot compete in the Big East doing what we're doing. The coaches are too good.

[drudy23]

I’ve been around a long time and a season ticket holder for over 35 years. Hell I questioned the hiring of Dick Campbell I go back so far. I’m worried about the future of Xavier basketball.

In the past I was always confident that we had solid footing, a strong foundation. Mike Bobinski in my opinion was a very capable AD. In his 15 years he was responsible for the hiring of Matta, Miller and Mack. In addition, we had the benefit of two university presidents, spanning 30 years, that recognized the value of basketball to Xavier’s overall success.

Now we have Greg Christopher who I think never had to make a “high profile” hire in his professional career. I think Steele was an easy pick. A safe hire. But very possibly not a good hire. Couple that with the fact that we now have a new university president who may not share Hoff/Graham’s vision of the basketball program’s relative importance to Xavier. I’m worried.

Most share your concern, whether they'll admit it or not.

[drudy23]

I'm not saying we should have hired someone different, but does anyone know if any of the other candidates (like Kelsey) were true finalists for the job?

I know we all heard a list - but was there ever any serious consideration for anyone in that group?

[GoMuskies]

Most share your concern, whether they'll admit it or not.

My concern is tempered a bit by the fact that I had the exact same concerns about Miller for a couple of years. We'll know soon enough if he's on the Miller path or not. And if not, I don't for a minute believe that the administration will keep him around long enough to do major damage to the program. They know the program is far too important to the university as a whole for that.

[drudy23]

My concern is tempered a bit by the fact that I had the exact same concerns about Miller for a couple of years. We'll know soon enough if he's on the Miller path or not. And if not, I don't for a minute believe that the administration will keep him around long enough to do major damage to the program. They know the program is far too important to the university as a whole for that.

I think about this often. Every time we were all on the brink of losing our minds, the Xavier Way rose from the ashes and we elevated. This feels different, but I agree that it can also be a light at the end of the tunnel as well.

We're due for some tourney magic, maybe that's the catapult needed for this group. But if we miss out this year, how much longer can we afford to wait?

[Xuperman]

It's not that we can't shoot 3s, it's that we're so one-dimensional, it's easy to guard. Coaches have ZERO concern for our post game. It's why Free is getting 20+ points a game but playing crappy. Massive perimeter pressure.

You cannot compete in the Big East doing what we're doing. The coaches are too good.

Is there any doubt that losing Ben Stanley was a massive blow in this regard?

So, either Griffin plays a larger role (should be a double/double machine with a major increase in usage) or go with a 4 guard/wing + Free. I like Scruggs, Johnson, Jones, Wilcher to start. They are solid shooters with versatile scoring abilities plus all 4 of those guys can take care of the ball and get after it defensively as well.

Wilcher needs more run. He is a BIG guard with a nasty edge. He has a beautiful stroke and his scoring numbers are impressive for such limited PT but what really jumps out is that in his 59 minutes, only TWO turnovers!

[drudy23]

Is there any doubt that losing Ben Stanley was a massive blow in this regard. So, either Griffin plays a larger role (should be a double/double machine with a major increase in usage) or go with a 4 guard/wing + Free. I like Scruggs, Johnson, Jones, Wilcher to start. They are solid shooters with versatile scoring abilities plus all 4 of those guys can take care of the ball and get after it defensively as well.

Wilcher needs more run. He is a BIG guard with a nasty edge. His scoring numbers are impressive for such limited PT but what really jumps out is that in his 59 minutes, only TWO turnovers!

Griffin has to play more to see if it helps our lack of toughness in the paint, both on the offensive and defensive end.

[UCGRAD4X]

Griffin has to play more to see if it helps our lack of toughness in the paint, both on the offensive and defensive end.

Sure he does. The question is will he or will we keep seeing more of the same?

I know where I'd put my meager earnings.

[drudy23]

All I know is Steele said pretty much the exact same thing last year and nothing changed. And it didn't get better.

I guess we will see on Sunday.

[bleedXblue]

You would have to be blind and dumb to keep running Carter out there against really athletic teams. He actually will likely play ok against Butler b/c they may be the only team less athletic than we are.

I don't see many positives outside of Colby Jones right now. Scruggs is gonna be who he is. We essentially have 2 guys that play consistently well on both ends of the floor and then it ends right there.

Not much faith anything substantial is going to change this year.

[whopper]

I have played and watched for 50 years(covid stopped our 60+ league) but only followed X for past7 as my daughters went there(first memory is NC State Play in game2014). Saw some great ball and now this is eye opening. I can't knock kids and it is tough to recruit AND find playing time for your recruits at even Catholic high schools. St Johns and UConn are simply better than us and deeper too. The little I saw of Stanley I think he would have helped as Carter(who is my soul mate as a player) has lost his confidence and Stanley would have gotten us 8-10 Ppg, maybe next year. I would like to see Miles develop..he looked decent in Spain summer of 2019!(I bought the package) if with Zach, Miles, Stanley, Colby, Down, Kunkel, CJ and maybe Tandy we will be OK. Wonder if Griffin would come back. I assume others are gone and may be just as well as these guy need to gel. The days of #1 seed are long gone and BE Title as well. Damn but I want X to be must see TV again.
Fun fact: If Gillespie gets called for block in 2019 against nan we are at 20 W BE final and in. If we stop Kamal Baldwin last year(or NZE gets called for ridiculous illegal screen) we are in. In a total of 5 seconds in 2 year we went from the PIG to essentially nothing.

[Xville]

All I know is Steele said pretty much the exact same thing last year and nothing changed. And it didn't get better.

I guess we will see on Sunday.

I agree except beating probably the second worst team in the big east isn’t gonna do much to change my current opinion on this team and this coach. They go into providence and win, then I’ll start to feel a bit better. Not holding my breath.

[xavierj]

I have played and watched for 50 years(covid stopped our 60+ league) but only followed X for past7 as my daughters went there(first memory is NC State Play in game2014). Saw some great ball and now this is eye opening. I can't knock kids and it is tough to recruit AND find playing time for your recruits at even Catholic high schools. St Johns and UConn are simply better than us and deeper too. The little I saw of Stanley I think he would have helped as Carter(who is my soul mate as a player) has lost his confidence and Stanley would have gotten us 8-10 Ppg, maybe next year. I would like to see Miles develop..he looked decent in Spain summer of 2019!(I bought the package) if with Zach, Miles, Stanley, Colby, Down, Kunkel, CJ and maybe Tandy we will be OK. Wonder if Griffin would come back. I assume others are gone and may be just as well as these guy need to gel. The days of #1 seed are long gone and BE Title as well. Damn but I want X to be must see TV again.
Fun fact: If Gillespie gets called for block in 2019 against nan we are at 20 W BE final and in. If we stop Kamal Baldwin last year(or NZE gets called for ridiculous illegal screen) we are in. In a total of 5 seconds in 2 year we went from the PIG to essentially nothing.

The thing is Xavier has never really competed consistently for a Big East title with the exception of two years. One year they won it and once came in 2nd. Under Mack Xavier was 10-8, 9-9, 14-4, 9-9 and 15-3. He was lucky he landed Trevon.

I thought getting into the Big East Xavier would be top 3 every year and it never really has gone that way. Right now Xavier is at a crossroads. Figure it out and become consistently one of the top 2 or 3 programs in the conference or become DePaul or St. John’s. One thing that needs to happen quickly is to recruit tougher guys. I think Witcher seems to have a bit of an edge so maybe they should play him more, but better start recruiting some dudes.

[DexterBailey84]

So is Xavier not capable of making a bad decision? I just don't understand why some of you get so up in arms over the prospect that Steele might not be all that good as a BE HC. What exactly has he shown you over the last 3 years to be so over the top behind him other than the "Xavier way"? Sometimes things just don't go as planned...that's life.
IMO, he's at or near the bottom right now as far as BE coaches are concerned...Xavier way or not, is that what you really want for this program? Maybe we should just go back to the A10 if you answered yes to that question..
We've earned better, we deserve better...we should expect better.
Just sayin.

[GIMMFD]

Is Xavier not capable of making a bad decision? I just don't understand why some of you get so up in arms over the prospect that Steele might not be all that good as a BE HC. What exactly has he shown you over the last 3 years to be so over the top behind him other than the "Xavier way"?
Sometimes things just don't go as planned, that's life.
IMO, he's at or near the bottom right now as far as BE coaches are concerned...Xavier way or not, is that what you really want for this program?
Maybe we should just go back to the A10 if you answered yes to that question..
We've earned better, we deserve better...we are better.

Hmm, that's actually interesting to think about, where Steele compares in the Big East. Obviously Jay Wright is the pinnacle, I'd say McDermott, Kevin Willard, Dan Hurley, maybe Mike Anderson, he has a decently impressive record, but I'd say the rest are open to interpretation. I don't think Ewing, Leitao, Wojo, or Lavall Jordan are better, and Ed Cooley I don't know how to feel. I think he's more middle of the pack than bottom of the Big East, but I'm open for discussion on it.

[DexterBailey84]

Hmm, that's actually interesting to think about, where Steele compares in the Big East. Obviously Jay Wright is the pinnacle, I'd say McDermott, Kevin Willard, Dan Hurley, maybe Mike Anderson, he has a decently impressive record, but I'd say the rest are open to interpretation. I don't think Ewing, Leitao, Wojo, or Lavall Jordan are better, and Ed Cooley I don't know how to feel. I think he's more middle of the pack than bottom of the Big East, but I'm open for discussion on it.

I would take Ed Cooley running this program all day, every day over Travis Steele.
Being a Xavier guy doesn't mean anything at all. Once everyone figures that out, we'll all be a lot better off for it.

[xavierj]

Hmm, that's actually interesting to think about, where Steele compares in the Big East. Obviously Jay Wright is the pinnacle, I'd say McDermott, Kevin Willard, Dan Hurley, maybe Mike Anderson, he has a decently impressive record, but I'd say the rest are open to interpretation. I don't think Ewing, Leitao, Wojo, or Lavall Jordan are better, and Ed Cooley I don't know how to feel. I think he's more middle of the pack than bottom of the Big East, but I'm open for discussion on it.

Xavier doesn’t have the best talent in the big east so that has something to do with it as well. In addition, Xavier gave Travis his first head coaching job, so there will be some growing pains. Travis as a coach has finished 4th, 7th and currently 6th in the Big East since becoming a head coach, so right now he is probably middle of the pack as far as big east coaches go. Wright, Anderson, Cooley, McDermott and even Willard have been coaching for a very long time. I think Travis will get better but he better start making some freaking adjustments. Need to see some changes starting this weekend. I really like Jones, Witcher, Zach, Odom, and even Tandy, but need to add toughness and athleticism to the program. I mean Tandy is one of the most athletic kids on the team and he can’t even get on the floor on a team that lacks athleticism. I don’t know if that’s on him or the coaches.

[xavierj]

I would take Ed Cooley running this program all day, every day over Travis Steele.
Being a Xavier guy doesn't mean anything at all. Once everyone figures that out, we'll all be a lot better off for it.

Ed Cooley? You serious? Yikes the guy might be the most overrated coach in America. The guy is 1-5 in NCAA tourneys in 15 years coaching and his winning % is 59%. His last three years at Providence, including this year, are some of his worst teams since he has been at Providence. That’s not good. You don’t want a guy whose program is declining to be your next head coach. You also don’t want an older coach if and when Travis is no longer the coach. You have to have a guy that has energy and brings in a fresh perspective. Cooley seems like a great guy, I just wouldn’t want him to be the coach of the team I root for.

[AviatorX]

I would rather just bite the bullet and have Steele actually truly suck (and get fired) than endure a coach in the Cooley mode. Or even McD or Willard really. Bunch of guys who never get anything done when it counts.

[drudy23]

The league has some very good coaches, and the league has some very bad coaches. I think he's better than the very bad coaches, but nowhere near the very good ones.

I think both Mack and Miller have/had significantly higher basketball acumen. Significantly.

I thought he was a good recruiter based on our recent rankings. Perhaps he is a good recruiter but simply doesn't know how to manage a line-up and expectations with his team.

I think we have decent talent - enough to be in the top half to quarter of the league.

I honestly don't think we have great X and O guys on the staff. I have no doubt they hit the recruiting trail hard, but something's missing with lineups, strategy, game-planning, and game management. This is where the good coaches blow him out of the water.

[DexterBailey84]

Ed Cooley? You serious? Yikes the guy might be the most overrated coach in America. The guy is 1-5 in NCAA tourneys in 15 years coaching and his winning % is 59%. His last three years at Providence, including this year, are some of his worst teams since he has been at Providence. That’s not good. You don’t want a guy whose program is declining to be your next head coach. You also don’t want an older coach if and when Travis is no longer the coach. You have to have a guy that has energy and brings in a fresh perspective. Cooley seems like a great guy, I just wouldn’t want him to be the coach of the team I root for.

So how is any of that worse than Travis Steele? Other than the Xavier way of course.

[xavierj]

The league has some very good coaches, and the league has some very bad coaches. I think he's better than the very bad coaches, but nowhere near the very good ones.

I think both Mack and Miller have/had significantly higher basketball acumen. Significantly.

I thought he was a good recruiter based on our recent rankings. Perhaps he is a good recruiter but simply doesn't know how to manage a line-up and expectations with his team.

I think we have decent talent - enough to be in the top half to quarter of the league.

I honestly don't think we have great X and O guys on the staff. I have no doubt they hit the recruiting trail hard, but something's missing with lineups, strategy, game-planning, and game management. This is where the good coaches blow him out of the water.

I think part of the problem is they think they have to play a ton of guys and sub in and out. Settle on a 7 or maybe 8 man rotation and go with it. Villanova every year typically plays 7 guys. Gonzaga who is the best team in the country plays 7 and really only used 6 when they played BYU. Figure out your best players and play them and stop subbing to give guys rest. These guys can handle a lot of minutes. Carter seems like a great guy but you have to play who can help you win. I think you have a better chance to win playing Scruggs, Jones, Free, Johnson, Witcher, Griffin, and probably Kunkel or Tandy if he can get it together.

[DexterBailey84]

I think Travis will get better but he better start making some freaking adjustments.


You all have been saying the same thing for the last two years and nothing ever changes.
But hey, Xavier way...and all that.

[drudy23]

We've seen Carter be very effective as a role player. This nonsense with him on the perimeter does no one any good.

His ability to get rebounds and be a disruptor in the paint (at least be big and long) should be his contribution to winning. We don't need him to score unless it's a lay-up or dunk. I think he's valuable, but he's just being used in the dumbest of ways.

Just go out and be a poor man's Kevin Love (the chubby one that just got a bunch of rebounds).

[xavierj]

You all have been saying the same thing for the last two years and nothing ever changes.
But hey, Xavier way...and all that.

I have no idea what the Xavier way is. All I know is that I expected Xavier to be farther along then they have been in the last 20 years. Miller left after a short time and they started over. Chris stayed for longer than any coach but never took them to the next level and clearly Travis hasn’t either to this point. Frankly Xavier has not been consistent and hasn’t been that great ever. Had a few good runs in the NCAA tourney and some luck and no final 4’s.

I do not think that making a coaching change at this point is a smart move in my mind and I hope Travis can figure it out. Have no idea if he can but starting over from scratch will be a steep hill to climb. Xavier isn’t a blue blood and never will be. The other thing is a thing called money. Does Xavier really have the cash to buy out Travis who probably has at least $5 million left on his contract?

[drudy23]

When I refer to the Xavier Way, I'm talking about how the school gives the coaches and staff the resources they need to be successful.

This "points" system that dictates playing time is stupid.

I also miss Tu Holloway.

[Xville]

I have no idea what the Xavier way is. All I know is that I expected Xavier to be farther along then they have been in the last 20 years. Miller left after a short time and they started over. Chris stayed for longer than any coach but never took them to the next level and clearly Travis hasn’t either to this point. Frankly Xavier has not been consistent and hasn’t been that great ever. Had a few good runs in the NCAA tourney and some luck and no final 4’s.

I do not think that making a coaching change at this point is a smart move in my mind and I hope Travis can figure it out. Have no idea if he can but starting over from scratch will be a steep hill to climb. Xavier isn’t a blue blood and never will be. The other thing is a thing called money. Does Xavier really have the cash to buy out Travis who probably has at least $5 million left on his contract?

In laws should buy out the contract

[xukeith]

I think part of the problem is they think they have to play a ton of guys and sub in and out. Settle on a 7 or maybe 8 man rotation and go with it. Villanova every year typically plays 7 guys. Gonzaga who is the best team in the country plays 7 and really only used 6 when they played BYU. Figure out your best players and play them and stop subbing to give guys rest. These guys can handle a lot of minutes. Carter seems like a great guy but you have to play who can help you win. I think you have a better chance to win playing Scruggs, Jones, Free, Johnson, Witcher, Griffin, and probably Kunkel or Tandy if he can get it together.

Griffin is out (covid)

[XUBison]

Ed Cooley? You serious? Yikes the guy might be the most overrated coach in America. The guy is 1-5 in NCAA tourneys in 15 years coaching and his winning % is 59%. His last three years at Providence, including this year, are some of his worst teams since he has been at Providence. That’s not good. You don’t want a guy whose program is declining to be your next head coach. You also don’t want an older coach if and when Travis is no longer the coach. You have to have a guy that has energy and brings in a fresh perspective. Cooley seems like a great guy, I just wouldn’t want him to be the coach of the team I root for.

I suppose this is a fair critique of Ed Cooley, but what does this say then about Steele? Only an X fan would claim Steele is the preferable of the two at this point.

[DexterBailey84]

I suppose this is a fair critique of Ed Cooley, but what does this say then about Steele? Only an X fan would claim Steele is the preferable of the two at this point.

Thank you.

[xudash]

1. Xavier‘s Board of Trustees fully understands the importance of a successful basketball program to the overall well-being of the University.

2. Our new incoming president understands basketball’s importance to Xavier and is herself a basketball fan. If you are willing to watch games in Gola Arena, you are either a masochist or a true fan. She has clearly stated that she is a big fan of college basketball. She would not have been given the job if she had failed to exhibit a sincere understanding of the importance of all this.

3. Mark Few was criticized early on for not being a good game coach and for not being tough enough on his team. He has admitted as much in interviews. Who is to say how it will work out for us with Travis, but Gonzaga’s patience with Few has clearly paid off for Gonzaga.

4. I understand and acknowledge that Travis is not running on all eight cylinders as a coach. I get that.

5. Last season, at the end of the season? How about no Paul Scruggs for the last three games. Injured. Do you blame Travis for that?

6. Covid? Yes, every program and player has to play through it. I just don’t know how many programs at the high major level has had a month where only three games were played and very few practices were able to take place. It simply is not a normal year, by any stretch of the imagination.

11 wins, albeit with a number of very close calls. Still, 11 wins. 2 straight losses - one home and one away. They win the next time after that is a virtual most, and perhaps the optics behind it need to appear a little more enjoyable and polished.

Oh, Greg Christopher is a very strong AD.

[GoMuskies]

Few went 81-20 in his first 3 years and reached two Sweet 16s and had one first round exit. Pretty easy for Gonzaga to be patient.

[xavierj]

Griffin is out (covid)

He will play next game. COVID doesn’t last forever.

[xavierj]

I suppose this is a fair critique of Ed Cooley, but what does this say then about Steele? Only an X fan would claim Steele is the preferable of the two at this point.

Or someone who has a clue. Not saying Travis is good right now but I have seen enough of Ed Cooley that I know I wouldn’t want him as Xavier’s next coach. Providence is going backwards and has been for a while. Always have a lot of talent and have some guys that make the league, but Cooley just doesn’t get it done. Expectations must be low at Providence.

[boozehound]

Some of you guys need to take some deep breaths. Travis' first 3 years haven't been good, but they haven't been terrible. We narrowly missed the tournament both of his first two seasons. Firing him after 3 seasons (one of them being this current, bizarre, season) and hiring a new coach could just as easily plunge us into sustained mediocrity as giving Steele another season or two.

Let's not forget Mack had a pretty bad run in the middle of his tenure (after Holloway graduated), including a season in which he went 17-14 in the Atlantic 10 and missed the tournament.

I would certainly say I'm concerned, largely due to the dialogue around the results and suspect in-game coaching, but I don't think it's time to panic yet.

[bleedXblue]

He's not getting fired after this year. No matter how we finish. I hope he figures it out. We are 2.5 years in and have not seen the progression we would have liked. Next year is obviously critical for the coaching staff. Not many programs fire coaches for consecutive winning seasons. Regardless of tourney appearances or performance.

[boozehound]

This season started out looking pretty good. Then we repeatedly got hit with COVID layoffs. I honestly don't know what to think about the team (or coaching) performance this year. Obviously I don't like the two straight losses, but I truly don't think any of us know the impact that a month of no basketball mid-season has on a team. I know that other teams have had COVID suspensions as well and bounced back better, but I'm not sure how many of had the length of layoff that we have experienced.

[Xville]

If the team misses the tourney this year, next year should be make or break. 4 years is plenty of time, covid or not.

[xavierj]

If the team misses the tourney this year, next year should be make or break. 4 years is plenty of time, covid or not.

The thing with last year is you really do not know if they would have made it or not so can’t be held against him in that regard. A large amount of people who predict brackets still had them in. One thing they will look at is if you had anyone out. Paul missed the Butler and DePaul games and would have been back for the tourney so that would have definitely played into the discussion. Xavier was 18-10 with Paul playing last year and he was scoring almost 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game and he was hitting over 37% from three. Losing the last three by a combined 10 points, had a lot it do with him not available. So that can’t be held against Travis to be fair.

[Xville]

The thing with last year is you really do not know if they would have made it or not so can’t be held against him in that regard. A large amount of people who predict brackets still had them in. One thing they will look at is if you had anyone out. Paul missed the Butler and DePaul games and would have been back for the tourney so that would have definitely played into the discussion. Xavier was 18-10 with Paul playing last year and he was scoring almost 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists per game and he was hitting over 37% from three. Losing the last three by a combined 10 points, had a lot it do with him not available. So that can’t be held against Travis to be fair.

I hear what you are saying but the reality is that they were 8-10 in league last year, and I’m about done with giving the guy excuse after excuse. If they make it this year, then maybe x can start getting their footing back, if they don’t, then next year is it for him in my opinion. They could make it this year and all of this is moot. I hope that’s the case.

[xavierj]

I hear what you are saying but the reality is that they were 8-10 in league last year, and I’m about done with giving the guy excuse after excuse. If they make it this year, then maybe x can start getting their footing back, if they don’t, then next year is it for him in my opinion. They could make it this year and all of this is moot. I hope that’s the case.

That’s fair I was just saying you really can’t say one way or the other last year. Also his first year if the ref makes the right call in the Nova game, they probably go as well, but don’t make it so tight. Next year will definitely be a big year if they falter more down the stretch. Need to go at a minimum 3-2 the rest of the way and would be a good idea not to lose to Butler or Georgetown and beat Creighton.

[EastCoastXman]

Michigan is really lucky that they did not sign Cooley. J Howard is doing a great job. Cooley would have killed that program.

[Xavier]

Chris stayed for longer than any coach but never took them to the next level and clearly Travis hasn’t either to this point. Frankly Xavier has not been consistent and hasn’t been that great ever. Had a few good runs in the NCAA tourney and some luck and no final 4’s.



It depends on what you say next level is. If next level really does mean final four than obviously Chris didn't. He did bring Xavier the first ever 2 seed and 1 seed. (15 years ago I don't know if I would believe seeing Xavier on the 1 seed line). He also won the Big East and took X to an elite 8. I think he raised the expectation level at Xavier, even if just slightly.

[drudy23]

I agree he's not getting fired after this season, regardless of what happens, but if there's no tournament, the seat has to be hot. You can't miss the tournament 3 years in a row and the seat not be hot - with any coach at Xavier. That's uncharted territory.

If they don't make the tourney, there has to be a process of re-evaluation as well, imo. Does he have the right staff, do we need more true Big East big men, is his offensive philosophy really working, has he created a culture that players are buying into?

At a minimum, the AD needs to have a list ready. If the team folds for the rest of the year, I think it's something that can also be escalated. It will be March in a week, there's simply no time for a drastic reversal of course unless you make the tourney and do some damage.

I know we only have 4 losses, but they feel on the brink of the same type of collapse we've seen the previous two years down the stretch. At minimum, you have to win 3 out of the next 5 - there's absolutely no reason this team should finish below .500 in conference. I didn't expect them to win the conference with this team, but they're better than below .500.

[GoMuskies]

I didn't expect them to win the conference with this team, but they're better than below .500.

Particularly when we'll play Villanova exactly zero times.

[Mrs. Garrett]

Michigan is really lucky that they did not sign Cooley. J Howard is doing a great job. Cooley would have killed that program.

Howard did an excellent job assembling his staff with a lot of experienced guys around him. Travis should have done the same.

[xavierj]

I agree he's not getting fired after this season, regardless of what happens, but if there's no tournament, the seat has to be hot. You can't miss the tournament 3 years in a row and the seat not be hot - with any coach at Xavier. That's uncharted territory.

If they don't make the tourney, there has to be a process of re-evaluation as well, imo. Does he have the right staff, do we need more true Big East big men, is his offensive philosophy really working, has he created a culture that players are buying into?

At a minimum, the AD needs to have a list ready. If the team folds for the rest of the year, I think it's something that can also be escalated. It will be March in a week, there's simply no time for a drastic reversal of course unless you make the tourney and do some damage.

I know we only have 4 losses, but they feel on the brink of the same type of collapse we've seen the previous two years down the stretch. At minimum, you have to win 3 out of the next 5 - there's absolutely no reason this team should finish below .500 in conference. I didn't expect them to win the conference with this team, but they're better than below .500.

Can you explain the collapse the last two years? Two years ago Xavier went 7-3 the last 10, including a win against Nova and a bad call away from beating them again. So that is not exactly a collapse. Last year they were 6-2 to end the season before Paul was not available.

[boozehound]

Can you explain the collapse the last two years? Two years ago Xavier went 7-3 the last 10, including a win against Nova and a bad call away from beating them again. So that is not exactly a collapse. Last year they were 6-2 to end the season before Paul was not available.

It seems like the mid-season collapse is a bigger problem than the late season collapse. If I recall correctly, both of the past 2 years have seen Xavier struggle for a stretch in Dec/Jan before recovering a bit in Feb.

I do think Travis's seat should start to warm up a bit if we finish this season on a sour note though.

[drudy23]

Can you explain the collapse the last two years? Two years ago Xavier went 7-3 the last 10, including a win against Nova and a bad call away from beating them again. So that is not exactly a collapse. Last year they were 6-2 to end the season before Paul was not available.

These "if" scenarios aren't real. Stop bringing them up. Reality is they tanked last year, no other way to describe it. They literally needed one win and couldn't get it.

The year before, you're right, the tank was mid season and they had to scratch and claw to get to relevance - and still didn't get there.

Every team has been impacted by covid.

We sit at .500 again nearing March with 5 game remaining, three on the road. It's very possible we go 2-3 - and that's 6-7 in conference and squarely on the bubble with a coin flip's chance of making the dance. Basically the same spot we've been for the past 2 years. It's not good enough. Stop making excuses.

[xavierj]

These "if" scenarios aren't real. Stop bringing them up. Reality is they tanked last year, no other way to describe it. They literally needed one win and couldn't get it.

The year before, you're right, the tank was mid season and they had to scratch and claw to get to relevance - and still didn't get there.

Every team has been impacted by covid.

We sit at .500 again nearing March with 5 game remaining, three on the road. It's very possible we go 2-3 - and that's 6-7 in conference and squarely on the bubble with a coin flip's chance of making the dance. Basically the same spot we've been for the past 2 years. It's not good enough. Stop making excuses.

Not making excuses. Just stating facts. If you would have said mid season then I would have agreed. Bottom line is Travis and the players have to do better. Need leadership from the coaches and from some of the players. You are exactly right that if they go 2-3 they are probably done, unless one of those wins is Creighton. Wouldn’t surprise me if they went 0-5 or 4-1. Fact of the matter is they have to win games and make changes. Can’t keep playing the same way they have been.

[AviatorX]

Glossing over Paul Scruggs being out down the stretch last year is pretty dishonest. X likely beats one of (I would argue both) Providence and Butler, tacking on two more Q1 wins which would have lead to I think a 3 or 4 seed in the BET and easily making the non-existent NCAA Tournament. They had won 6/8 including 4 on the road before Scruggs went out. That is significant.

If Scruggs is out for the season starting tomorrow and X sucks down the stretch would you really call that an excuse?

[UCGRAD4X]

There are many factors that go into a successful program. We've discussed the new president, the AD, is we have the right assistants, tough enough and athletic enough players, recruiting acumen, comparison between our past and other teams' coaches/programs/philosophies, the COVID affect, and the Xavier Way etc.

These are all worthy topics for discussion but the actual effect of most of these is difficult to measure with much accuracy or specificity (approaching impossible for my meager intellect). Cause and effect / correlation vs causation and all that.

What seems to be the most compelling and obvious (in comparison to the aforementioned) is what happens in and around the immediacy of each game, which is compelling for reasons that also have been mentioned, not the least of which is; this is where the literal rubber meets the proverbial road. What also makes these observations and arguments carry more weight is that they more obvious, measurable, observational (however anecdotal) relevant and comparable over an increasing length of time in comparison to the otherwise peripheral parameters mentioned.

It is almost universally accepted or opined that how Travis uses individual players and the roster as a whole, manages games such as substitution patterns, times out, dictating tempo, depth chart etc. is a worthy of criticism. But the most compelling seems to be is the learning curve, willingness to change what does not work, continue what seems most effective and then responsibility for the shortcomings.

In consideration of the most relevant and compelling aspects, Travis is most clearly failing.

Criticism is justified.

[boozehound]

I don't think anybody here is all-in on Travis at this point, and I don't think anyone is saying criticism isn't justified. The debate is more around just how concerned we should be, not whether or not we should be concerned at all.

We were similarly concerned about Mack off and on. Like when he went 21-12 followed by 17-14 in the A10. Mack had two fairly improbable Sweet 16 runs that helped keep us off his back a bit, but he also had the benefit of starting out his head coaching career in the (much worse) Atlantic 10.

I do agree that the short-term lack of adjustments is concerning with Travis, as well as the fact that (based on his post game interviews) it doesn't seem like he knows exactly what the problem is.

[UCGRAD4X]

I don't think anybody here is all-in on Travis at this point, and I don't think anyone is saying criticism isn't justified. The debate is more around just how concerned we should be, not whether or not we should be concerned at all.

We were similarly concerned about Mack off and on. Like when he went 21-12 followed by 17-14 in the A10. Mack had two fairly improbable Sweet 16 runs that helped keep us off his back a bit, but he also had the benefit of starting out his head coaching career in the (much worse) Atlantic 10.

I do agree that the short-term lack of adjustments is concerning with Travis, as well as the fact that (based on his post game interviews) it doesn't seem like he knows exactly what the problem is.

That is my point. The comparison to Mack has too many variables. The level of players he was able to recruit and sign, the level of competition and the "speculation" that he was just a better coach. Level of direct comparison has a difficulty factor.

The most compelling, least speculative, most immediate and agreed upon elements clearly point to a legitimate criticism.

[drudy23]

Not making excuses. Just stating facts. If you would have said mid season then I would have agreed. Bottom line is Travis and the players have to do better. Need leadership from the coaches and from some of the players. You are exactly right that if they go 2-3 they are probably done, unless one of those wins is Creighton. Wouldn’t surprise me if they went 0-5 or 4-1. Fact of the matter is they have to win games and make changes. Can’t keep playing the same way they have been.

You're making inferences on factual things, there's a difference. Yes, it's a fact Paul was out, it's not a fact that that's why we lost. That's your inference.

And yes, if Paul goes out again, this team still has enough talent to make the tournament. Would it require players and coaches to step up - yes - but they're certainly capable.

And if they go 0-5 and 1-4, that's a definite sign Steele may not be the right guy.

[AviatorX]

You're making inferences on factual things, there's a difference. Yes, it's a fact Paul was out, it's not a fact that that's why we lost. That's your inference.

And yes, if Paul goes out again, this team still has enough talent to make the tournament. Would it require players and coaches to step up - yes - but they're certainly capable.

And if they go 0-5 and 1-4, that's a definite sign Steele may not be the right guy.

I mean, obviously what you wrote is 100% true on a factual level, but it's a pretty unrealistic (and pedantic) way to look at a sport where you have 5 guys on the floor at a time.

[Final4]

1. Xavier‘s Board of Trustees fully understands the importance of a successful basketball program to the overall well-being of the University.

2. Our new incoming president understands basketball’s importance to Xavier and is herself a basketball fan. If you are willing to watch games in Gola Arena, you are either a masochist or a true fan. She has clearly stated that she is a big fan of college basketball. She would not have been given the job if she had failed to exhibit a sincere understanding of the importance of all this.

3. Mark Few was criticized early on for not being a good game coach and for not being tough enough on his team. He has admitted as much in interviews. Who is to say how it will work out for us with Travis, but Gonzaga’s patience with Few has clearly paid off for Gonzaga.

4. I understand and acknowledge that Travis is not running on all eight cylinders as a coach. I get that.

5. Last season, at the end of the season? How about no Paul Scruggs for the last three games. Injured. Do you blame Travis for that?

6. Covid? Yes, every program and player has to play through it. I just don’t know how many programs at the high major level has had a month where only three games were played and very few practices were able to take place. It simply is not a normal year, by any stretch of the imagination.

11 wins, albeit with a number of very close calls. Still, 11 wins. 2 straight losses - one home and one away. They win the next time after that is a virtual most, and perhaps the optics behind it need to appear a little more enjoyable and polished.

Oh, Greg Christopher is a very strong AD.


Saying that Dr. Hanycz is a basketball fan and attends LaSalle games simply doesn’t move the needle for me. In the six years prior to her hire at LaSalle the team went 103-89. In the six years after her hire they went 70-105. Doesn’t scream “hey look how I advanced the basketball program”.

And as far as Xavier’s Board of Trustees is concerned, I wonder how candid the discussions of Steele’s performance (and future) might be given the fact that his father-in-law is a board member.

I hope you’re right and I’m wrong. I hope my concerns are completely unfounded.

And lastly, I’m really curious why you think Christopher is “a very strong AD”. What has he done to warrant such high praise?

[boozehound]

Saying that Dr. Hanycz is a basketball fan and attends LaSalle games simply doesn’t move the needle for me. In the six years prior to her hire at LaSalle the team went 103-89. In the six years after her hire they went 70-105. Doesn’t scream “hey look how I advanced the basketball program”.

And as far as Xavier’s Board of Trustees is concerned, I wonder how candid the discussions of Steele’s performance (and future) might be given the fact that his father-in-law is a board member.

I hope you’re right and I’m wrong. I hope my concerns are completely unfounded.

And lastly, I’m really curious why you think Christopher is “a very strong AD”. What has he done to warrant such high praise?

Well now I'm depressed...

[94GRAD]

I mean, obviously what you wrote is 100% true on a factual level, but it's a pretty unrealistic (and pedantic) way to look at a sport where you have 5 guys on the floor at a time.

Had to look that up. Happy to add it to my vocabulary.

[boozehound]

Had to look that up. Happy to add it to my vocabulary.

Now you can look smarter while calling people assholes!

[drudy23]

Wait - so Steele's father-in-law is on the Board? I knew he was a big donor but didn't realize this.

Don't get me started on corporate politics. We may be stuck with Steele for a decade in this case.

[boozehound]

Wait - so Steele's father-in-law is on the Board? I knew he was a big donor but didn't realize this.

Don't get me started on corporate politics. We may be stuck with Steele for a decade in this case.

I also didn't realize this, and really don't love hearing it.

[SkyWalker]

I thought Xavier had a policy against nepotism. I seem to recall, back when Sean Miller was named head coach, he wanted to hire his brother Archie as an assistant.

[AviatorX]

Had to look that up. Happy to add it to my vocabulary.

It's one of those good words to use when you're not 100% sure what it means every time you use it, but you're pretty sure it will make you look smart.

[cutterX]

Steele's father-in-law owns a very large company that I'm guessing is a very large donor to the university. The powers that be may have to make a very hard decision in the coming years...........

[boozehound]

I thought Xavier had a policy against nepotism. I seem to recall, back when Sean Miller was named head coach, he wanted to hire his brother Archie as an assistant.

Apparently that's only a rule for coaches, not wealthy benefactors. To be fair it sounds like they met and got married well after Travis was an assistant at XU, so making him quit and work elsewhere would probably have seemed a little harsh.

[GIMMFD]

Saying that Dr. Hanycz is a basketball fan and attends LaSalle games simply doesn’t move the needle for me. In the six years prior to her hire at LaSalle the team went 103-89. In the six years after her hire they went 70-105. Doesn’t scream “hey look how I advanced the basketball program”.

And as far as Xavier’s Board of Trustees is concerned, I wonder how candid the discussions of Steele’s performance (and future) might be given the fact that his father-in-law is a board member.

I hope you’re right and I’m wrong. I hope my concerns are completely unfounded.

And lastly, I’m really curious why you think Christopher is “a very strong AD”. What has he done to warrant such high praise?

To be honest, who cares if Dr. Hanycz attends games or not, I'm sure she will to keep up appearances whether she likes college basketball or it's a fascade because basketball is vital to the success of our university. She can keep up appearances and have interest, but that's where you trust your athletic director and other members in the athletic realm to vet candidates, etc. I rather her role in hiring be to meet with potential candidates and get a "vibe check" so to speak, rather than analyze coaching records, etc. All I care about is if she realizes that basketball has to be successful and allocate the resources to ensure the program can grow, it doesn't necessarily mean she has to evaluate Steele's ability or potential candidate abilities.

I don't know much about Greg Christopher to have an opinion of him, know he hired Dave Clawson who after cutting some of the toxicity out of the football program, made Bowling Green pretty competitive, enough to get the Wake Forest job (not saying Clawson is an elite hire or great football coach, but seems like a good enough hire), and got rid of that dickhead Dan Dakish lol. I think it'll be telling to see how he handles this situation. It was kind of easy to hire Steele, it's the way things had been for the previous hires, so it kind of made sense. As an AD you should be doing your due diligence, but hiring outside of the past ways that showed success might have caused a little uproar.

Steele's Father-In-Law being on the Board of Trustees is concerning however, look at how big time donors cripple SEC and Texas' football programs with the power struggles, look at how the Haslams screwed up Tennessee... I'm hoping that he can make cognitive unbiased decisions, but man, that's not great news.

[Final4]

To be honest, who cares if Dr. Hanycz attends games or not, I'm sure she will to keep up appearances whether she likes college basketball or it's a fascade because basketball is vital to the success of our university. She can keep up appearances and have interest, but that's where you trust your athletic director and other members in the athletic realm to vet candidates, etc. I rather her role in hiring be to meet with potential candidates and get a "vibe check" so to speak, rather than analyze coaching records, etc. All I care about is if she realizes that basketball has to be successful and allocate the resources to ensure the program can grow, it doesn't necessarily mean she has to evaluate Steele's ability or potential candidate abilities.


I think you kinda' went off the rails here if this was intended to be a response to my comments on Dr. Hanycz. If you read XUDASH's message to which I responded I think you'll better understand the context.

[xudash]

Saying that Dr. Hanycz is a basketball fan and attends LaSalle games simply doesn’t move the needle for me. In the six years prior to her hire at LaSalle the team went 103-89. In the six years after her hire they went 70-105. Doesn’t scream “hey look how I advanced the basketball program”.

And as far as Xavier’s Board of Trustees is concerned, I wonder how candid the discussions of Steele’s performance (and future) might be given the fact that his father-in-law is a board member.

I hope you’re right and I’m wrong. I hope my concerns are completely unfounded.

And lastly, I’m really curious why you think Christopher is “a very strong AD”. What has he done to warrant such high praise?

Well, the point made was about the individual, not the crappy program to which she has been tied. If you want to equate the resources of LaSalle and its basketball program to those of ours, I can’t help you. She had few options at LaSalle for improving anything, including their basketball venue. She has clearly stated that she likes basketball and understands its importance.

Greg is a strong executive and fundraiser. I trust his judgment.

This may or may not work out for us, but, if he gets his act together, we may have the very long-term continuity that we have so badly lacked in the past as we became a “cradle for coaches” in basketball.

[drudy23]

On the flip side, we haven't needed the long-term continuity to elevate.

[xudash]

On the flip side, we haven't needed the long-term continuity to elevate.

We've been fortunate in that regard.

I would still like to have the right guy in place for a long time than have to deal with the transition risk involved in replacing coaches.

So, we either get lucky with a transitional type coach - Butler when they overachieved or Moser at Loyola (we'll see how long he stays there) or VCU, etc. - or we really establish continuity so key recruiting targets will feel like they'll finish with the same guy that brought them into the program, and will then choose Xavier on that key metric for them.

[xu82]

Now you can look smarter while calling people assholes!

That made me laugh. Good point!

[GIMMFD]

I think you kinda' went off the rails here if this was intended to be a response to my comments on Dr. Hanycz. If you read XUDASH's message to which I responded I think you'll better understand the context.

Lol that was a little choppy and a poor response, my bad I was slightly distracted while responding, but I was also agreeing with you that she doesn't move the needle in terms of growing a basketball program, sustaining success, etc. I think in my schizophrenic thoughts I was basically just saying: understand basketball is our cash cow, if ya don't have the inner workings to make decision, let the people who have been making decisions continue making decisions and don't cripple it.


We've been fortunate in that regard.

I would still like to have the right guy in place for a long time than have to deal with the transition risk involved in replacing coaches.

So, we either get lucky with a transitional type coach - Butler when they overachieved or Moser at Loyola (we'll see how long he stays there) or VCU, etc. - or we really establish continuity so key recruiting targets will feel like they'll finish with the same guy that brought them into the program, and will then choose Xavier on that key metric for them.

Agreed, because we're not really in the business of getting one and done's where stability is important. I'd assume heavily that Pat Kelsey is high on Greg Christopher's list, which a lot of people have been advocating for, and I think he'd definitely be at Xavier a long long time if he did get hired and had success. The thing is Chris Mack (Cincinnati guy, played at X, etc.) left for Louisville, and I get it, the private jet, the resources they pour into things, wife's family, etc. etc. what happens if someone at Xavier succeeds at a high level, do they leave for greener pastures to coach a blue blood with infinite resources? I think the Mark Few's, Jay Wright's, etc. are rare to find, it's tough to judge an outlook of a coach's longevity due to all of the various other factors considered.

[GoMuskies]

Oh god, not Pat Kelsey. It's more imperative than ever that Steele succeed.

[xavierj]

Oh god, not Pat Kelsey. It's more imperative than ever that Steele succeed.

Right. Not sure what the fascination is with him.

[xavierj]

Watching the Gonzaga game and they are up 26 at the half. They played exactly 7 guys and 4 of the 5 starters played 18 minutes each. You don’t have to play 10 guys for no reason and guys don’t have to come out to get a lot of rest. These guys are in great shape to handle a lot of minutes and it also lets them get in a groove. Settle on 7 guys to get most of the minutes and play your starters 34 or 35 minutes a game unless they get in foul trouble. Play your 6th and 7th man 12-14 minutes and your 8th guy maybe 8 minutes. It’s shouldn’t be that difficult not to take a bunch of guys out when they start to get hot. Also when a guy picks up his 2nd foul, don’t automatically sit him for the rest of the half. When Scruggs picked up number two on Tuesday he sat the last three minutes and the game went from Xavier down 1 to Xavier down 8. Game over.

[xu82]

I like this thread title MUCH more than the tired negative titles. I’m all for open discussion, but let it be balanced and intelligent rather than blindly negative and bashing.

[xuphan]

I like this thread title MUCH more than the tired negative titles. I’m all for open discussion, but let it be balanced and intelligent rather than blindly negative and bashing.

If Steele does not make the NCAA tournament this year, how much longer will posters on here give him?

[boozehound]

If Steele does not make the NCAA tournament this year, how much longer will posters on here give him?

To some extent, probably as long as we have to. Few, if any, of us have any real say in who the coach is. If they miss the tournament next year I'd imagine we will keep doing what we have been doing for the last 3 years - complain about it and hope he figures it out.

Honestly I'm not sure how many games Xavier will play for the rest of the year or how the tournament will be seeded. I'm more interested on how the team finishes out than whether they make the tournament in this particular season. I'd imagine that by the end of the year Xavier will have played far fewer games than many other teams and I'm not sure how (or if) that factors in to tournament selection.

If we do fire Steele, I hope we set our sights a lot higher than Pat Kelsey. Other than being from the West Side I'm not sure what he has done to become so mythologized in Xavier lore.

[AviatorX]

If Steele does not make the NCAA tournament this year, how much longer will posters on here give him?

Two more seasons, in my view. Could argue this year should be a total pass across the board honestly. What's the list of programs who have fired a coach after three seasons look like?

[Mrs. Garrett]

My concern is that Steele doesn't seem to be learning from his mistakes or willing to change. It's like he's got an idea of how things should work on paper, but when they don't he doesn't make adjustments.

There's at least 2 guys in the starting lineup getting significant minutes who shouldn't be. There's guys who get a long leash that shouldn't and others who can't get back on the floor after one mistake.

We're in year 3 of something's not working, but let's just stick to the same game plan.

[xuinmd]

Well, we could havejordon or dojo

[xuinmd]

that would be wojo

[xukeith]

Covid kicked X 's ass. Both teams (SJU and X) would be same conditioning and taught a similar hours of practice.
X only had 2 practices in over 30 days. Just saying...

[bjf123]

Covid kicked X 's ass. Both teams (SJU and X) would be same conditioning and taught a similar hours of practice.
X only had 2 practices in over 30 days. Just saying...

That is part of it. We had a few free throws hitting the front of the rim. That’s legs, which would be tough to maintain with 2 practices over 30 days. Might be why we had so many substitutions. Guys could have been getting winded. Yes, I know they’re only 20, but they still need to work at staying in game shape.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Masterofreality]

About 2.5 years. He turned things around first few weeks of February of his third year, and that same February includes losing to Duquesne.

Miller was under fire in year two. He was 17-10 until they won 4 in 4 days, luckily in Cincinnati at the A10 Tournament to save the bacon.
Travis is getting a LOT more rope.

[Masterofreality]

The main problem I see opposing coaches taking advantage of is our lack of ability to consistently score in the post. Zac will get some post points, but outside of him, where does it comes from? Coaches don't have to double Free on the post. Free also plays alot on the perimeter - which I think opposing coaches are fine with. He gets alot of open threes for a reason. He can knock them down, but it seems they're not afraid of Free beating them.

Same with Carter. He doesn't really score in the post and spends a bunch of time on the perimeter. He's also not a threat to opposing coaches on the offensive end.

Also, the second we get down, everyone starts hoisting 3's. I think we try too hard to use Free and Carter as stretch 4's, and they're not really elite at that role. The personnel doesn't fit the style. Seems we're trying to make it work because Steele wants to be Villanova so bad. Our wings are not NBA caliber athletes like they have at Villanova.

As shown vs St. Johns. Carter had 3 points and 2 rebounds vs St. Johns. Why is he in there unless only because Griffin wasn't available. Carter gives this team zero and was beaten badly by his man who he was supposed to defend. We play 4 on 5 offensively when he's in. Teams now know they can give up the paint with little damage and overplay the arc. Another reason why our out shooting has declined.
Our lack of patience and discipline vs St. Johns was, at best, disturbing, and at worst criminal. It made for quick shots with no X guy in position to rebound, allowed St Johns to outrebound us and get out on breaks that were impossible to defend.
St. Johns went on a 16-3 run and Steele never called a TO to stop the run early. That happened later in the game too. Not good.

[Masterofreality]

agreed. Given the minutes he deserves could probably average a double double.

Travis seems to pick the wrong guys to have too much confidence in. The past 2 it has been jason carter. The team at times struggles to score and he won't take the guy off the court who is afraid to shoot.

Either go big with griffin at the 5 and free at the 4 or go small and let colby or wilcher stand in the open corner and take the shots carter won't take.

this!!!! All day!!!

[Masterofreality]

That was mentioned many, many times last year and the excuse was we didn't have enough shooters. Now we have shooters......so, now what?

And how many times was I taken to task for saying the exact thing last year? Welp. Now it's his guys and shooters and what do we see?
By the way, Loyola Chicago who many dissed me for last year is again ranked. 22 this week. Yeah, Moser can coach with a beautiful offense to watch.

We need to win 4 out of the next 5, or win at least 2 in the BE Tournament or hello NIT!! AGAIN

[Masterofreality]

He also said in the post game presser that he's not worried about offense but the defense was unacceptable.

Does he not realize that his team's actions on offense completely put his team in a terrible spot to defend St Johns? I mean, cmon, this is the coach of a top 25 college program (at least we were) - and doesn't even realize his own offensive strategy was a detriment to his team.

It's just easier to blame "toughness" - welcome to Mick world.

Yes. This too.

[Masterofreality]

I’ve been around a long time and a season ticket holder for over 35 years. Hell I questioned the hiring of Dick Campbell I go back so far. I’m worried about the future of Xavier basketball.

In the past I was always confident that we had solid footing, a strong foundation. Mike Bobinski in my opinion was a very capable AD. In his 15 years he was responsible for the hiring of Matta, Miller and Mack. In addition, we had the benefit of two university presidents, spanning 30 years, that recognized the value of basketball to Xavier’s overall success.

Now we have Greg Christopher who I think never had to make a “high profile” hire in his professional career. I think Steele was an easy pick. A safe hire. But very possibly not a good hire. Couple that with the fact that we now have a new university president who may not share Hoff/Graham’s vision of the basketball program’s relative importance to Xavier. I’m worried.

And I share this concern completely.

[AviatorX]

And how many times was I taken to task for saying the exact thing last year? Welp. Now it's his guys and shooters and what do we see?
By the way, Loyola Chicago who many dissed me for last year is again ranked. 22 this week. Yeah, Moser can coach with a beautiful offense to watch.

We need to win 4 out of the next 5, or win at least 2 in the BE Tournament or hello NIT!! AGAIN

Good news on Moser is Xavier can still have him if they want him I guess. I doubt he'd want to go somewhere that fired a coach after 3 years though.

PS: Steele's offense is way, way better with his guys and shooters. KenPom isn't always the gospel, but if you're willing to use it as a general guide, Xavier's offense is more efficient (adjusted for competition) than Loyola's as of this very moment. Defensively, Steele (and most coaches) could learn a lot from Moser.

[Masterofreality]

This season started out looking pretty good. Then we repeatedly got hit with COVID layoffs. I honestly don't know what to think about the team (or coaching) performance this year. Obviously I don't like the two straight losses, but I truly don't think any of us know the impact that a month of no basketball mid-season has on a team. I know that other teams have had COVID suspensions as well and bounced back better, but I'm not sure how many of had the length of layoff that we have experienced.

The opposition also has tons of scouting film on us now. Big factor in who and what to leave alone and who to focus on. We are not adjusting.

[Masterofreality]

Good news on Moser is Xavier can still have him if they want him I guess. I doubt he'd want to go somewhere that fired a coach after 3 years though.

.No they can't. He's not leaving Chicago. DePaul will go after him if they fire Leito. There's chatter in Chicago to that effect

[Masterofreality]

Michigan is really lucky that they did not sign Cooley. J Howard is doing a great job. Cooley would have killed that program.

And Martelli is really helping him.

[AviatorX]

.No they can't. He's not leaving Chicago. DePaul will go after him if they fire Leito. There's chatter in Chicago to that effect

If he takes the DePaul job after staying put after the F4 run than what can you even say. To be clear, I would not want Porter Moser as Xavier's coach.

[Masterofreality]

If he takes the DePaul job after staying put after the F4 run than what can you even say. To be clear, I would not want Porter Moser as Xavier's coach.

Whatever. My point is he's done and is doing a lot more with a lot less.
As always, if DePaul backs up the Brinks Truck, it's hard to say no. And with a new DePaul AD, Leito's time is growing short.

[Xavier]

I think some of that is it is easier to do that in smaller conferences. I mean keep in mind both Mack and Miller got to learn in the A-10 where they already had one of the more talented rosters in the league. This is not a knock on Steele- more so on Greg for wanting to snag a coach with no head coaching experience.

[boozehound]

The opposition also has tons of scouting film on us now. Big factor in who and what to leave alone and who to focus on. We are not adjusting.

Fair point. I'd definitely agree that we aren't adjusting. In pretty much any way, really.


I think some of that is it is easier to do that in smaller conferences. I mean keep in mind both Mack and Miller got to learn in the A-10 where they already had one of the more talented rosters in the league. This is not a knock on Steele- more so on Greg for wanting to snag a coach with no head coaching experience.

I wonder about this as well, and it was a concern I had with the hire initially. Plus it's not like Travis was a long time top assistant at Duke or Michigan State or something. I would think it's unquestionably easier to cut your teeth in the A-10 as a new coach vs. the Big East. Travis has the benefit of better talent due to our conference affiliation, but the opposing talent (and coaching) is notably better in the Big East as well.

[xukeith]

FWIW
In the last 30 years of Xavier basketball, many times coaches have a post game press conference.
Travis Steele's post SJU game interview, had more anger and frustration at players than maybe any other Xavier coach.
I do recall Mack saying after a loss, We got crushed rebounding and it is not acceptable. Prosser was always spinning a loss in the greater game of life, Gillen always said "It was a war Andy" and maybe Miller comes second in frustration with players not knowing how to dribble and pass like he was.

Thoughts?

[drudy23]

If Steele has to be replaced, I'd venture to guess the AD won't go the same route (no HC experience).

However, it creates a dilemma of affording a polished coach from a major conference. Probably can't pay them.

Without any groomed assistants even in the realm of taking over, it's going to be an up-and-comer from a mid-major conference (enter the Kelsey conversation) or an assistant from a top-level conference. I have no clue who the "it" guys even are at this point.

[drudy23]

FWIW
In the last 30 years of Xavier basketball, many times coaches have a post game press conference.
Travis Steele's post SJU game interview, had more anger and frustration at players than maybe any other Xavier coach.
I do recall Mack saying after a loss, We got crushed rebounding and it is not acceptable. Prosser was always spinning a loss in the greater game of life, Gillen always said "It was a war Andy" and maybe Miller comes second in frustration with players not knowing how to dribble and pass like he was.

Thoughts?

It wasn't his first time like this.

There's been numerous pressers where the "Unacceptable" rant has happened - yet it's unacceptable but keeps happening? It's your program Trav.

[SM#24]

We need to win 4 out of the next 5, or win at least 2 in the BE Tournament or hello NIT!! AGAIN

What NIT ?
I'm guessing there won't be one. It's NCAA or bust !

[GoMuskies]

They're planning to have a MSG only, abbreviated NIT this year. It will still suck, of course.

[Mrs. Garrett]

.No they can't. He's not leaving Chicago. DePaul will go after him if they fire Leito. There's chatter in Chicago to that effect

Most people here in Chicago believe DePaul's new AD, who was at Kentucky for years will go after Kenny Payne.

Moser would definitely want the job. He talks about going to Ray Meyer camp as a kid. He has a good relationship with Chicago area coaches including the Public League. But for some reason most DePaul fans don't want him. They think they are better than him which is laughable.

He also has a rich Daddy like Travis' father-in-law. Many believe that kept him at Loyola while he struggled early on.

[Xville]

FWIW
In the last 30 years of Xavier basketball, many times coaches have a post game press conference.
Travis Steele's post SJU game interview, had more anger and frustration at players than maybe any other Xavier coach.
I do recall Mack saying after a loss, We got crushed rebounding and it is not acceptable. Prosser was always spinning a loss in the greater game of life, Gillen always said "It was a war Andy" and maybe Miller comes second in frustration with players not knowing how to dribble and pass like he was.

Thoughts?

This might be the most disturbing thing about Steele right now. He takes absolutely zero accountability for the team’s performance and it is absurd. He is not putting his players in the best position to win games. Unless they were just not following his game plan (which would be a problem in and of itself), the plan against St. John’s was absolute garbage and so was the plan against seton hall. At least twice this season he has been thoroughly out coached form beginning to end and taken zero responsibility. It’s made me start to not even respect him.

[AviatorX]

Most people here in Chicago believe DePaul's new AD, who was at Kentucky for years will go after Kenny Payne.

Moser would definitely want the job. He talks about going to Ray Meyer camp as a kid. He has a good relationship with Chicago area coaches including the Public League. But for some reason most DePaul fans don't want him. They think they are better than him which is laughable.

He also has a rich Daddy like Travis' father-in-law. Many believe that kept him at Loyola while he struggled early on.

I mean this is season 17 for Moser and he appears to have had one very, very good team (this year, although obviously the reality of this season is outside of two teams who knows who is good) and one team that got very hot in a very weird bracket region. If I was a DePaul fan I'd want to go the get as much talent as possible Kenny Payne route too (although doubt he'd leave the NBA).

[Strange Brew]

Beilein is available...

[JTG]

Beilein is available...

He'd be taking a massive pay cut, but I'd love Beilein as a coach.

[xuphan]

Beilein is available...

Thad Matta is also available.

[boozehound]

He'd be taking a massive pay cut, but I'd love Berlin as a coach.

Definitely a pipe dream, but I’d be in favor of firing Travis immediately if we could somehow get Beilein.

[AviatorX]

Brad Stevens or Billy Donovan?

[Strange Brew]

He'd be taking a massive pay cut, but I'd love Berlin as a coach.

He resigned today so he’s out there.

[waggy]

Brad Stevens

Hahaha. I'm not a Butler hater, but just imagining their reaction to this happening ...

[Strange Brew]

Hahaha. I'm not a Butler hater, but just imagining their reaction to this happening ...

It reminds me of a Dana Carvey bit about OJ.

Frame OJ? But I really like OJ. But you’re right, it’s just too good....

[Lloyd Braun]

When Travis was hired one of the main concerns I recall was aside from not having any head-coaching experience, he was a “players coach“. That it may be difficult for him to discipline guys that needed discipline. That was on display his first year for sure, and even more to an extent last year. Perhaps he had a tougher time with that because his role shifted with those guys from assistant coach to head coach. Which brings me to the KyKy situation. I thought maybe initially he was trying to flex some muscle to say he can be a tough guy to those that needed some discipline in their playing habits. After last nights post game comments (https://twitter.com/adamjbaum/status/1363713535327563782?s=21) there has to be something deeper going on. He apparently only had Ramsey and Kyky in out of necessity, and didn’t need them in the 2nd half. Hopefully when he watches the tape, he realizes the spark they provided was at both ends. Otherwise it will be tough to convince me there is not another agenda going on with KyKy, because our offense isn’t exactly lighting it up these days either.

[bleedXblue]

When Travis was hired one of the main concerns I recall was aside from not having any head-coaching experience, he was a “players coach“. That it may be difficult for him to discipline guys that needed discipline. That was on display his first year for sure, and even more to an extent last year. Perhaps he had a tougher time with that because his role shifted with those guys from assistant coach to head coach. Which brings me to the KyKy situation. I thought maybe initially he was trying to flex some muscle to say he can be a tough guy to those that needed some discipline in their playing habits. After last nights post game comments (https://twitter.com/adamjbaum/status/1363713535327563782?s=21) there has to be something deeper going on. He apparently only had Ramsey and Kyky in out of necessity, and didn’t need them in the 2nd half. Hopefully when he watches the tape, he realizes the spark they provided was at both ends. Otherwise it will be tough to convince me there is not another agenda going on with KyKy, because our offense isn’t exactly lighting it up these days either.

How can you miss as a head coach what Ramsey did last night and NOT play him at least a few minutes in the 2nd half?

This team needs some help in the post and he provided that right away last night. JUST DO NOT GET IT.

And again, I am not asking for Ramsey to get 10 2nd half minutes. He deserved at least one rotation. 3-4 minutes.

[Xville]

When Travis was hired one of the main concerns I recall was aside from not having any head-coaching experience, he was a “players coach“. That it may be difficult for him to discipline guys that needed discipline. That was on display his first year for sure, and even more to an extent last year. Perhaps he had a tougher time with that because his role shifted with those guys from assistant coach to head coach. Which brings me to the KyKy situation. I thought maybe initially he was trying to flex some muscle to say he can be a tough guy to those that needed some discipline in their playing habits. After last nights post game comments (https://twitter.com/adamjbaum/status/1363713535327563782?s=21) there has to be something deeper going on. He apparently only had Ramsey and Kyky in out of necessity, and didn’t need them in the 2nd half. Hopefully when he watches the tape, he realizes the spark they provided was at both ends. Otherwise it will be tough to convince me there is not another agenda going on with KyKy, because our offense isn’t exactly lighting it up these days either.

Gotta play d and rebound? Well coach he made a hell of a hustle play and had two rebounds to go along with 5 points in 7 minutes of play. He is probably the best pure scorer on the team. Of course this team needs to get better on d, but Steele sounds more and more croninesque after every press conference and I’m tired of the weird agenda he has with kyky

[Xuperman]

How can you miss as a head coach what Ramsey did last night and NOT play him at least a few minutes in the 2nd half?

This team needs some help in the post and he provided that right away last night. JUST DO NOT GET IT.

And again, I am not asking for Ramsey to get 10 2nd half minutes. He deserved at least one rotation. 3-4 minutes.

No doubt, never pass up an opportunity to give Carter a breather!

[boozehound]

Gotta play d and rebound? Well coach he made a hell of a hustle play and had two rebounds to go along with 5 points in 7 minutes of play. He is probably the best pure scorer on the team. Of course this team needs to get better on d, but Steele sounds more and more croninesque after every press conference and I’m tired of the weird agenda he has with kyky

It's definitely getting strange at this point. I'm sure KyKy is going to transfer out after this season, and I'll bet he has a good career somewhere. Maybe there is something we aren't seeing that is going on at practice etc., but it's starting to look a little ridiculous.

[Xavier]

Gotta play d and rebound? Well coach he made a hell of a hustle play and had two rebounds to go along with 5 points in 7 minutes of play. He is probably the best pure scorer on the team. Of course this team needs to get better on d, but Steele sounds more and more croninesque after every press conference and I’m tired of the weird agenda he has with kyky

He did actually miss two rebounds that went right to him- butler somehow snagged from him and got a bucket. But what he brought last night was solid and pulling him for a mistake or two is only going to make him more timid. I certainly get the guy takes weird shots, has some dumb pull ups- and isn't always hustling...but at the end of the day you take the good with the bad from KyKy and more times than not it will result in positives for the team.

He really does bring a different energy to the team. And during this slump- that energy is needed.

After a few press conferences I immediately thought he sounded like Mick and was reason for concern haha....granted Mick seems to be doing good things at UCLA.

[markchal]

He did actually miss two rebounds that went right to him- butler somehow snagged from him and got a bucket. But what he brought last night was solid and pulling him for a mistake or two is only going to make him more timid. I certainly get the guy takes weird shots, has some dumb pull ups- and isn't always hustling...but at the end of the day you take the good with the bad from KyKy and more times than not it will result in positives for the team.

He really does bring a different energy to the team. And during this slump- that energy is needed.

After a few press conferences I immediately thought he sounded like Mick and was reason for concern haha....granted Mick seems to be doing good things at UCLA.

I just wish Tandy would play harder. Thought he gave some decent minutes but too many times he seems to quit during a play, gets caught watching after shots go up, etc.

That said, Kunkel and Johnson didn't really have it last night, I get that Johnson still plays good D, but you can def find minutes for Tandy in the second. Then again, it was a pretty close game until very late, and Odom and Jones were both playing really well, so can't fault playing the hot hand there.

[xucub]

Struggling to figure out why Ramsey did not merit a bit of playing time in the second half.

[boozehound]

He did actually miss two rebounds that went right to him- butler somehow snagged from him and got a bucket. But what he brought last night was solid and pulling him for a mistake or two is only going to make him more timid. I certainly get the guy takes weird shots, has some dumb pull ups- and isn't always hustling...but at the end of the day you take the good with the bad from KyKy and more times than not it will result in positives for the team.

He really does bring a different energy to the team. And during this slump- that energy is needed.

After a few press conferences I immediately thought he sounded like Mick and was reason for concern haha....granted Mick seems to be doing good things at UCLA.

I'm sure Tandy bears some responsibility for his situation, but it certainly seems like Travis looks for reasons to pull him, while other guys get a ton of leeway to make bad decisions. I'm not a basketball coach though, so it's highly possible there is something going on that I'm not seeing.

[SM#24]

I think KyKy is just plain not doing what he is being asked to defensively, rebounding and getting after loose balls and it's hurting us. Travis' quote summed it up. So, yes, I think he is being played out of necessity, when nothing else is working and yes, he is ripe for a quick hook when the areas the coaches are harping on with him are not being executed as they would like.
Even last year in the handful of games he scored well, you could see other teams make a point to attack him on the defensive end.
Assuming he transfers, where do you think he ends up ? At a high level power 6 school ?
I would have loved us KyKy back in the A10 days, but at the level we're trying to compete at, his weaknesses are greatly exposed.

[boozehound]

I don't think I see Tandy at a high level Power 6 school. More likely to a slightly lower level program (A10 maybe?) that would let him become 'the guy' at least on offense. He seems to have plenty of skill if he decides to put in the effort somewhere.

[Xville]

I think KyKy is just plain not doing what he is being asked to defensively, rebounding and getting after loose balls and it's hurting us. Travis' quote summed it up. So, yes, I think he is being played out of necessity, when nothing else is working and yes, he is ripe for a quick hook when the areas the coaches are harping on with him are not being executed as they would like.
Even last year in the handful of games he scored well, you could see other teams make a point to attack him on the defensive end.
Assuming he transfers, where do you think he ends up ? At a high level power 6 school ?
I would have loved us KyKy back in the A10 days, but at the level we're trying to compete at, his weaknesses are greatly exposed.

I thought his defense was pretty good last night and he had 2 rebounds last night in 7 minutes. He was also about the only one in the first half that won a 50-50 ball when he dove on the floor and tipped it to maybe Johnson? For a breakout. I just hope that if he continues to play that way, Steele will continue to play him and give him some run in the second half. With Johnson and Scruggs gone next year, an upper class men Tandy would be welcome and in my opinion needed.

[Mrs. Garrett]

Struggling to figure out why Ramsey did not merit a bit of playing time in the second half.

Because the might take minutes away from Travis's boyfriend Jason.

[drudy23]

I don't think I see Tandy at a high level Power 6 school. More likely to a slightly lower level program (A10 maybe?) that would let him become 'the guy' at least on offense. He seems to have plenty of skill if he decides to put in the effort somewhere.

I have no doubts Tandy has the physical ability to play at this level. He just needs to get smarter and learn how to use his strengths within a team concept. I will say it again, there's no way I'd give up on him yet. It will be a true shame if he decides to look elsewhere.

[markchal]

I will say it again, there's no way I'd give up on him yet. It will be a true shame if he decides to look elsewhere.

This point gets missed a lot in the discussion, as there will be a TON of playing time available next year with our starting backcourt graduating. If he buys into the team concept more, he could be one of our key players next year.

[boozehound]

This point gets missed a lot in the discussion, as there will be a TON of playing time available next year with our starting backcourt graduating. If he buys into the team concept more, he could be one of our key players next year.

I hope so. It just really doesn't feel like that's the way this is headed. Travis seems very frustrated with him, and he seems frustrated with his role on the team.