PDA

View Full Version : Looking Towards Next Year



xuphan
03-07-2021, 09:19 AM
With this season all but over, it is time to look at next year. I am 99% confident that Travis will be here next year regardless if he deserves to be or not. I would expect Nate Johnson, Paul Scruggs, Bryan Griffin and Jason Carter to graduate and leave the program. I also expect Kyky Tandy and possibly Daniel Ramsey to transfer as well. With the roster we have remaining, what does this team need to pick up either in the transfer portal or an unsigned player to strengthen the squad enough to be a solid NCAA tournament teams? Missing the NCAA tournament year after year is getting old.

Xville
03-07-2021, 09:22 AM
Doesn’t matter... as long as Steele is here, it’ll be nit in March.

xavierj
03-07-2021, 09:24 AM
With this season all but over, it is time to look at next year. I am 99% confident that Travis will be here next year regardless if he deserves to be or not. I would expect Nate Johnson, Paul Scruggs, Bryan Griffin and Jason Carter to graduate and leave the program. I also expect Kyky Tandy and possibly Daniel Ramsey to transfer as well. With the roster we have remaining, what does this team need to pick up either in the transfer portal or an unsigned player to strengthen the squad enough to be a solid NCAA tournament teams? Missing the NCAA tournament year after year is getting old.

They need an athletic, strong power forward who can score and need to be able to knock down shots as a team. Zach and Colby need to eat weights and Colby and Dwon need to shoot a million threes a day.

whopper
03-07-2021, 09:44 AM
I wonder if Stanley is that athletic strong power forward. Seems possible. I just can't believe Miles could never help at all..so many other schools have a raw back up center that averages maybe 3p and 3 re in 10 minutes but contributes. With Nate and Paul graduating you would think a lot of time would open for Kyky but maybe the situation is unfixable. Lets have hope for next week, with Villanova hobbled and Creighton far from unbeatable i think everyone (even Butler) has a sniff of a chance. St Johns coming on strong..I talked to my providence friends about how PC beat St johns(went to bed early) and they said they were doubled up in the second half and lost. Yikes

paulxu
03-07-2021, 09:52 AM
I want to finish this season first.

bjf123
03-07-2021, 10:07 AM
I want to finish this season first.

You won’t have to wait long. It will be over on Wednesday.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

paulxu
03-07-2021, 10:10 AM
You won’t have to wait long. It will be over on Wednesday.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Ack!

boozehound
03-07-2021, 10:13 AM
Doesn’t matter... as long as Steele is here, it’ll be nit in March.

Based on what's returning next year coupled with the coaching we have seen from this staff, what makes you so sure we will make the NIT?

Xville
03-07-2021, 10:24 AM
Based on what's returning next year coupled with the coaching we have seen from this staff, what makes you so sure we will make the NIT?

Good point....cbi?

drudy23
03-07-2021, 10:55 AM
They need an athletic, strong power forward who can score and need to be able to knock down shots as a team. Zach and Colby need to eat weights and Colby and Dwon need to shoot a million threes a day.

I 1 million percent agree, but can anyone show me a recruiting profile where this need is even being recruited?

Stretch 4 U

Xavier
03-07-2021, 11:01 AM
The only thing Steele has going for him is the young core collectively could have a strong future. Freemantle is still a sophomore, you have Odom, Jones, Wilcher, KyKy (hopefully) and Kunkel all for at least 2 more years. To me it looks like a solid foundation of young guys. To me, Odom is the first sign of Toughness we have seen in awhile, I’m not sure his shot can be fixed (lol) but he can get to the lane and finish really well.

drudy23
03-07-2021, 11:06 AM
The only thing Steele has going for him is the young core collectively could have a strong future. Freemantle is still a sophomore, you have Odom, Jones, Wilcher, KyKy (hopefully) and Kunkel all for at least 2 more years. To me it looks like a solid foundation of young guys. To me, Odom is the first sign of Toughness we have seen in awhile, I’m not sure his shot can be fixed (lol) but he can get to the lane and finish really well.

Who is your stud glass eating big man that can get you a bucket in the post when shots aren’t falling?

You can’t just roll out 5 shooters and win in this league unless you have NBA talent. This program needs to get back to its roots with balanced, tough, and together basketball.

Xavier
03-07-2021, 11:14 AM
Agreed, that is the missing piece. Swing and miss with Ramsay and Miles. Just saying the underclass man have good pieces to build around. They do play together right now though, one of the top assists teams in the country.

And for awhile now I’ve said Hankins would’ve been perfect for this team.

boozehound
03-07-2021, 11:15 AM
Who is your stud glass eating big man that can get you a bucket in the post when shots aren’t falling?

You can’t just roll out 5 shooters and win in this league unless you have NBA talent. This program needs to get back to its roots with balanced, tough, and together basketball.

The more I think about it, the more I think that is the big miss. Through all of Mack's tenure we pretty much always had a pipeline of decent big men that we supplemented with transfers. Guys like Reynolds, Farr, O'Mara, Tyrique Jones, even Kenny Frease. We mixed in solid transfers like Kanter when we needed it, but we pretty much always had some beef down low. That stopped when Steele came in and started recruiting nothing but wing players. He obviously has a system he is going after, but that system doesn't seem to be working and it's going to be tough to adjust out of at this point. At least not in 1 year.

bleedXblue
03-07-2021, 11:31 AM
Who is your stud glass eating big man that can get you a bucket in the post when shots aren’t falling?

You can’t just roll out 5 shooters and win in this league unless you have NBA talent. This program needs to get back to its roots with balanced, tough, and together basketball.

we need bangers we have ZERO

drudy23
03-07-2021, 11:39 AM
Our rookie AD was enthralled at the prospect of us being the next Villanova. Coach Aluminum sold him a bunch of goods about the “new wave” of basketball, and it got him the job. It’s not the answer for a program like X who doesn’t recruit with the Blue Bloods.

Now we’re into years 4 and 5 (recruiting wise) and it will take another full recruiting cycle to turn it around. We’re in trouble folks.

We’re now pretty deep into a strategy that simply isn’t working. It can’t be let to continue down this path without some interference. It’s going to take some balls by the AD to right the ship, whether that’s changes with Trav, or moving on from Trav.

xukeith
03-07-2021, 12:35 PM
Which line up to start a season looks better:

2020: Scruggs, Johnson, Jones, Freemantle, Carter

or 2021: Odom, Wilcher, Jones, Freemantle, Transfer TBD

We will greatly miss Scruggs.

xukeith
03-07-2021, 12:39 PM
Send Jones and Odom to a month long program with Brad Redford and then a 2 month program set by Tu Holloway.

stammina0721
03-07-2021, 12:40 PM
Doesn't matter. Give Steele Gonzaga's roster and he would have them vying for a one seed in the NIT

Xavier
03-07-2021, 12:41 PM
I’d start KyKy, Odom, Jones, Freemantle, transfer big if not Ramsay/miles.

stammina0721
03-07-2021, 12:45 PM
I will see you all in 2023 unless Steele is gone this off-season. No reason for me to watch the worst coach in the Big East get manhandled for a 4th straight year. Guess I'll restart my interest in hockey in 2022

xukeith
03-07-2021, 12:47 PM
Zach did average double digit rebounds for 5 straight games . Last season, Tyrique Jones showed he was hands down the best rebounding big man in X's history.
This year Zach surprised me with how good a rebounder he was.
I believe Miles or Ramsey will be in the regular rotation next year with frosh Edwards and a transfer.

whopper
03-07-2021, 12:56 PM
I’d start KyKy, Odom, Jones, Freemantle, transfer big if not Ramsay/miles.. I think Stanley could start or at least contribute. I think that Stanley and Kunkel in addition to that list makes this a "decent" team. I am still confused as to Miles and Ramsey..Ramsey looked like he could play (do did Dontarius James who had a good year at a lower level) and Miles looked competitive in 4 minutes a few weeks ago against UConn and just disappeared(not to mention 12against Oakland which is in the Horizon league final) Even Griffin last night blocked Theo and then ran the floor for a dunk and disappeared..I know there is a lot i dont know but there has to be more to this. We are looking for minor contributions which could have made a difference

Xavier
03-07-2021, 12:58 PM
Good point about Stanley, he seemed to be able to score surprisingly well inside. Kyky, Odom, Jones, Stanley, Free. Kunkel, Wilcher and freshman off the bench.

xuphan
03-07-2021, 01:30 PM
Zach did average double digit rebounds for 5 straight games . Last season, Tyrique Jones showed he was hands down the best rebounding big man in X's history.
This year Zach surprised me with how good a rebounder he was.
I believe Miles or Ramsey will be in the regular rotation next year with frosh Edwards and a transfer.

Is Edwards the banger we need down low? I thought it was mentioned he likes to drift out on the perimeter and shoot 3s. Similar to Freemantle

xukeith
03-07-2021, 07:31 PM
. I think Stanley could start or at least contribute. I think that Stanley and Kunkel in addition to that list makes this a "decent" team. I am still confused as to Miles and Ramsey..Ramsey looked like he could play (do did Dontarius James who had a good year at a lower level) and Miles looked competitive in 4 minutes a few weeks ago against UConn and just disappeared(not to mention 12against Oakland which is in the Horizon league final) Even Griffin last night blocked Theo and then ran the floor for a dunk and disappeared..I know there is a lot i dont know but there has to be more to this. We are looking for minor contributions which could have made a difference

Ramsey played 3 minutes and was gassed. He dunked in transition and shot a 8 foot shot.
I suspect Miles or Ramsey will play if they get extremely stronger.

drudy23
03-07-2021, 10:10 PM
Is Edwards the banger we need down low? I thought it was mentioned he likes to drift out on the perimeter and shoot 3s. Similar to Freemantle

He's 6'8" and 195 lbs. I think that answers that. Our guards weigh that much. KyKy is 190.

Coach Aluminum is drooling at the very thought of another tall guy standing on the 3 point line.

This is his recruiting profile. Get used to it.

xavierj
03-07-2021, 10:14 PM
He's 6'8" and 195 lbs. I think that answers that. Our guards weigh that much. KyKy is 190.

Coach Aluminum is drooling at the very thought of another tall guy standing on the 3 point line.

Edwards is actually 6’10 215 lbs, and he doesn’t look like a rail thin build so he should be able to put on weight. Also averaged about 13 rebounds a game. I don’t think he hangs out a ton on the perimeter but does seem to have some skill. Tucker is pretty skinny but looks like a really good athlete, which Xavier really lacks right now.

drudy23
03-07-2021, 10:18 PM
Edwards is actually 6’10 and over 200 lbs and he doesn’t look like a rail thin build so he should be able to put on weight. Tucker is pretty skinny but looks like a really good athlete, which Xavier really lacks right now.

I just read an article form Nov 2020 saying he's 6'8 195.

And then I read another from July 2020 saying he's 6'10 210

I guess he shrunk.

drudy23
03-07-2021, 10:31 PM
I just watched two videos of both of them.

I counted 10 shots between the two. 8 were 3s and the other 2 were 16ft jump shots.

Like I said, get used to it.

Stretch 4 U - long and skinny.

xavierj
03-07-2021, 10:37 PM
I just watched two videos of both of them.

I counted 10 shots between the two. 8 were 3s and the other 2 were 16ft jump shots.

Like I said, get used to it.

Stretch 4 U - long and skinny.

I guess we will see. He looks like he is fast and has a nice stroke. Doesn’t seem that skinny for a 6’10” high school kid. Also on high light videos you will see a lot of the flashy stuff. Either way seems like he rebounds and Xavier needs that. Like most kids going from high school to major college basketball he will need to improve a lot and get stronger. Had offers from Florida State, Florida, Clemson, Virginia Tech and Texas A&M so someone sees potential in him.

xavierj
03-07-2021, 10:41 PM
I just read an article form Nov 2020 saying he's 6'8 195.

And then I read another from July 2020 saying he's 6'10 210

I guess he shrunk.

I think the 6’8 195 was from when he was a freshman. Said he was 6’6” in 8th grade and kept growing. ESPN, Rivals, verbal commits and Scout all have him listed 6’9” to 6’10” and 200 to 215 lbs.

drudy23
03-07-2021, 10:44 PM
I guess we will see. He looks like he is fast and has a nice stroke. Doesn’t seem that skinny for a 6’10” high school kid. Also on high light videos you will see a lot of the flashy stuff. Either way seems like he rebounds and Xavier needs that. Like most kids going from high school to major college basketball he will need to improve a lot and get stronger. Had offers from Florida State, Florida, Clemson, Virginia Tech and Texas A&M so someone sees potential in him.

They weren't highlight videos, they were high school game videos.

I'm sure he will be fine, but my whole point is that he's not a banger. Where are the Tyrique Jones type? The Jalen Reynolds? The Sean O'Maras? The James Farrs? Hell, even the Matt Stainbrooks? We used to be one of the leaders in developing great power forwards. Now it's where they go to die.

D-West & PO-Z
03-07-2021, 10:44 PM
Agreed, that is the missing piece. Swing and miss with Ramsay and Miles. Just saying the underclass man have good pieces to build around. They do play together right now though, one of the top assists teams in the country.

And for awhile now I’ve said Hankins would’ve been perfect for this team.

Any chance Ramsey gets his health in order and he is a late bloomer like Farr? Or fat chance???

D-West & PO-Z
03-07-2021, 10:50 PM
Which line up to start a season looks better:

2020: Scruggs, Johnson, Jones, Freemantle, Carter

or 2021: Odom, Wilcher, Jones, Freemantle, Transfer TBD

We will greatly miss Scruggs.

Can we pay scruggs to come back???? Beg and pay?????

Honestly I agree it doesnt seem next year would be better, but we never know how guys may progress or what transfers we may get. Is Ben Stanley going to come back?

xavierj
03-07-2021, 10:50 PM
Any chance Ramsey gets his health in order and he is a late bloomer like Farr? Or fat chance???

I think the talent is there but doesn’t seem like his health is. I wouldn’t count on him. I hope Stanley can recover, and hope Zach can get a lot stronger. Probably need to try to add an athletic power forward who can rebound, play defense and be a threat to score some points.

Xuperman
03-08-2021, 12:32 AM
I think the talent is there but doesn’t seem like his health is. I wouldn’t count on him. I hope Stanley can recover, and hope Zach can get a lot stronger. Probably need to try to add an athletic power forward who can rebound, play defense and be a threat to score some points.

That IS Stanley. Unfortunately he was contemplating going overseas to hoop for cash last year. I'm thinking he is still thinking that now.

markchal
03-08-2021, 09:02 AM
that...is not Stanley. He IS a good scorer, but he's undersized to be an effective defender/rebounder, but those aren't the roles he was brought here to fill either

markchal
03-08-2021, 09:04 AM
We used to be one of the leaders in developing great power forwards. Now it's where they go to die.

I do think the game has changed (even at the college level) and you don't need a whole roster of these anymore like we used to.

HOWEVER, you at least need one or two, we literally are devoid of someone who can play consistent post defense. Our bigs are Jason Carter and Zach Freemantle. It's not their fault they were put in that position.

Mrs. Garrett
03-08-2021, 09:59 AM
They need 2 Big East caliber centers so Zach can move to the PF. They either need to get more athletic or play with more desire. I can't tell if losing all the 50/50 balls is due to lack of athleticism or heart.

xukeith
03-08-2021, 04:51 PM
Back in March 2014, X was not looking too good.
Snuck in tourney to play in UD for play in game.

I recall frustrated X poster posting, "why aren't Erik Stenger and Brandon Randolph playing more??!

"If KAMALL RICHARDS didn't hurt his knee, X surely would be Sweet 16 material"

xuphan
03-14-2021, 07:38 PM
Back in March 2014, X was not looking too good.
Snuck in tourney to play in UD for play in game.

I recall frustrated X poster posting, "why aren't Erik Stenger and Brandon Randolph playing more??!

"If KAMALL RICHARDS didn't hurt his knee, X surely would be Sweet 16 material"

With the season officially over, what does Xavier need to do to get back to the NCAA tournament with Steele still being here next season? What positions does Xavier need to look into the transfer portal?

bleedXblue
03-14-2021, 07:50 PM
I'm tired of the transfer portal / band aid this program has been using for the last 5 years. I would rather go back to building a program through solid recruiting with the occasional transfer in to fill a hole.

With the sophomore class largely being a miss except for Free at this point, we are destined to do this for another year or two. I ultimately think this will be big part of Steele's downfall and exit.

Its extremely hard to bring multiple guys in to fill holes and have them fit into the program and your playing style.

Xville
03-14-2021, 07:51 PM
With the season officially over, what does Xavier need to do to get back to the NCAA tournament with Steele still being here next season? What positions does Xavier need to look into the transfer portal?

1. Fire Steele
2. Find a legitimate post man on the transfer market or a recruit that may have slipped thru the cracks
3. Hire a coach and a staff that can actually develop talent.
4. Fire the AD or at least relieve him of his athletic duties. He can play with his fundraising or whatever the hell else his job duties are. Serious question...is there any team currently on campus that is good?

xavierj
03-14-2021, 07:57 PM
I'm tired of the transfer portal / band aid this program has been using for the last 5 years. I would rather go back to building a program through solid recruiting with the occasional transfer in to fill a hole.

With the sophomore class largely being a miss except for Free at this point, we are destined to do this for another year or two. I ultimately think this will be big part of Steele's downfall and exit.

Its extremely hard to bring multiple guys in to fill holes and have them fit into the program and your playing style.

I think Xavier will have to hit the portal pretty hard unless there are unsigned seniors available. Expect some guys to leave and doubt they have any of the seniors back except maybe Griffin. If I was making odds I would put Tandy at 1-9, Ramsey even money, Miles 3-1, Zack, Jones and Wilcher 5-1 and the field 20-1.

Backyard Champ
03-14-2021, 07:57 PM
I saw a rumor that UK big had some interest in Xavier. Anyone else hear anything about that? Would be a huge get for this team.

whopper
03-14-2021, 08:00 PM
I think the guards and forwards are in decent(not great ) shape. I am thinking Ben Stanley (or leading scorere/min who did well against Seton Hall and Creighton) will be healthy and Kunkel will be here for a full year. Kyky would seem to be gone but I hope not. Free cant be the 5 anymore and I dont really know why Miles cant be like one of these raw centers (some from Africa) that play 20-25 min a game and get 7-8 pts and 7-8 rebounds and 4 fouls. A transfer can be found but damn he had 12 and 12 against Oakland (sucks but 1 game from dance) and played "OK" against UConn. In 8 months that "should" be possible unless there are any issue (Physical or other) that i am not aware of. No guards are needed and maybe Nate or Griffin come back?

Xville
03-14-2021, 08:06 PM
I saw a rumor that UK big had some interest in Xavier. Anyone else hear anything about that? Would be a huge get for this team.

What UK big? The only one that is currently in the portal is fletcher and he’s a 6’6 swing man and I’m assuming will be going back to Slu or mizzou

Backyard Champ
03-14-2021, 08:07 PM
Hm, thought I heard about a UK big. Guess I read something wrong. Oops

cinskyline
03-14-2021, 08:09 PM
4. Fire the AD or at least relieve him of his athletic duties. He can play with his fundraising or whatever the hell else his job duties are. Serious question...is there any team currently on campus that is good?

I will say this.... Greg Christopher is no Mike Bobinski. That much I am certain of.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

bleedXblue
03-14-2021, 08:34 PM
I think Xavier will have to hit the portal pretty hard unless there are unsigned seniors available. Expect some guys to leave and doubt they have any of the seniors back except maybe Griffin. If I was making odds I would put Tandy at 1-9, Ramsey even money, Miles 3-1, Zack, Jones and Wilcher 5-1 and the field 20-1.

exactly more of the same........crap

Blue Blooded-05
03-14-2021, 08:35 PM
I think Xavier will have to hit the portal pretty hard unless there are unsigned seniors available. Expect some guys to leave and doubt they have any of the seniors back except maybe Griffin. If I was making odds I would put Tandy at 1-9, Ramsey even money, Miles 3-1, Zack, Jones and Wilcher 5-1 and the field 20-1.

What’s our sales pitch to grad transfers at this point? Grad transfers want one last chance at an NCAA Tournament. We’ve brought in 8 grad transfers in the past 3 years and not one has made it to the dance.

Next year we’ll have 1 player with NCAA Tournament experience... and it was from when he played at Belmont

xukeith
03-14-2021, 08:45 PM
I am surprised X declined the NIT invite.

Usually having 3 frosh and a soph playing significant minutes, they need all the experience they can get.
Maybe the Xavier brand missed out on an opportunity. No news isn't good news. First time since 1978 where X , UC and UK all missed big dance.

Are they burning down the red flags in Louisville with no bid for Mack?

RoseyMuskie
03-14-2021, 08:46 PM
1. Fire Steele
2. Find a legitimate post man on the transfer market or a recruit that may have slipped thru the cracks
3. Hire a coach and a staff that can actually develop talent.
4. Fire the AD or at least relieve him of his athletic duties. He can play with his fundraising or whatever the hell else his job duties are. Serious question...is there any team currently on campus that is good?

I agree with 1-3.

I don’t agree with the fourth. I supported the Steele hire at the time and Christopher went the avenue where the program had success (hire within).

But the longer Christopher sticks with Steele, the more he’s tied into Steele’s success. I think Christopher has a free hire if he parts ways now.

xavierj
03-14-2021, 08:47 PM
What’s our sales pitch to grad transfers at this point? Grad transfers want one last chance at an NCAA Tournament. We’ve brought in 8 grad transfers in the past 3 years and not one has made it to the dance.

Next year we’ll have 1 player with NCAA Tournament experience... and it was from when he played at Belmont

I don’t expect them to be grad transfers any more because there really will be no such thing. Everyone will be able to transfer one time without sitting out. I expect any transfers to most likely guys that just completed there first or 2nd year where you can have them another two or three years. It will literally be every program in the country every year. It will hurt the high school kids. Times have changed forever with the new rule changes, not just Xavier.

D-West & PO-Z
03-14-2021, 10:09 PM
I'm tired of the transfer portal / band aid this program has been using for the last 5 years. I would rather go back to building a program through solid recruiting with the occasional transfer in to fill a hole.

With the sophomore class largely being a miss except for Free at this point, we are destined to do this for another year or two. I ultimately think this will be big part of Steele's downfall and exit.

Its extremely hard to bring multiple guys in to fill holes and have them fit into the program and your playing style.

I feel like this is only going to become more prevalent, not only with X. I get you sentiment and the hope is we dont need those guys to fill huge roles, but with the anticipation that guys can transfer and play right away I think we may be seeing this more than ever.

AviatorX
03-14-2021, 10:17 PM
I feel like this is only going to become more prevalent, not only with X. I get you sentiment and the hope is we dont need those guys to fill huge roles, but with the anticipation that guys can transfer and play right away I think we may be seeing this more than ever.

Agreed. Look at the top teams - more often than not they have transfers or grad transfers playing huge roles. That’s the landscape.

XUGRAD80
03-15-2021, 10:00 AM
I feel like this is only going to become more prevalent,.........with the anticipation that guys can transfer and play right away I think we may be seeing this more than ever.

No doubt in my mind but that this is going to happen. And there are going to have to be some rules and regulations put into place as a part of this new rule.

1). Some kind of anti-tampering rule
2). Timing of the transfers needs to be controlled....no changing mid-year with immediate eligibility
3). Some real enforceable and harsh penalties for misuse....loss of scholarships, player ineligibility, etc.

The last thing we want is this to become like professional sports at the trading deadline. Or players deciding to leave a school going nowhere at the semester break, in order to go play for a school that is winning all their games during the 2nd semester.

I do foresee that there might be several more players opting to transfer this off-season if they knew they would be eligible right away.


BUT...I especially see this happening NEXT year and the FOLLOWING year because of how much the recruiting actual physical interaction has been curtailed over the last 12 months. There are going to be LOTS and LOTS of players that have chosen a school (and a coaching staff) without ever actually visiting the school or meeting the coaches in person. There are also LOTS and LOTS of players that have been offered a scholarship without the coaching staff seeing anything more than tapes and then having a Zoom call.

There are going to be both players and coaches that realize that they made a mistake and will want to correct it as soon as they can. I think it will only be right and fair to ALL involved if the transfer sit-out rule is modified.

xukeith
03-15-2021, 11:26 AM
I just watched two videos of both of them.

I counted 10 shots between the two. 8 were 3s and the other 2 were 16ft jump shots.

Like I said, get used to it.

Stretch 4 U - long and skinny.

Making ANY sports predictions based on a youtube video is not too smart.
You would think we learned our lesson from Redford and his YouTube videos.

drudy23
03-15-2021, 11:39 AM
Making ANY sports predictions based on a youtube video is not too smart.
You would think we learned our lesson from Redford and his YouTube videos.

I'm not making any predictions - but it sure looks like he prefers to be on the perimeter on offense.

Stretch 4 U - when none of them are really 4s.

XUGRAD80
03-15-2021, 11:44 AM
Verbal Commits keeps an updated transfer portal listing....as of right now the total # of players for 2021 is up to 420. Already. Lots more to come.

Make that 462....42 more just this afternoon.

paulxu
03-15-2021, 11:50 AM
Maybe this guy would help in the middle:


UMass star big man Tre Mitchell is expected to transfer, sources told ESPN. First-team All-Atlantic 10 selection this season averaged 18.8 points and 7.2 rebounds this season.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtFbgf8iksE

drudy23
03-15-2021, 11:54 AM
Maybe this guy would help in the middle:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtFbgf8iksE

I can already tell I like him better. THAT'S a stretch four.

He can play with his back to the basket and on the perimeter.

xuphan
03-15-2021, 11:57 AM
I can already tell I like him better. THAT'S a stretch four.

He can play with his back to the basket and on the perimeter.

I am sure we will be in for him but I am sure a lot of top programs will be after him as well.

drudy23
03-15-2021, 11:59 AM
I am sure we will be in for him but I am sure a lot of top programs will be after him as well.

I know it's a video against a bad team, but you can kind of tell by the way he moves he could be a pro.

Kind of reminds me of Michael Beasley.

boozehound
03-15-2021, 05:11 PM
Next year is going to be interesting, unless we can land a big time transfer or two. A not-quite lame duck HC with a lot of inexperienced players missing key components of the front court. Sound like a DePaul team. We are in a bit of a tough spot with this roster, and I'm not sure that there is a quick-fix out there.

xavierj
03-15-2021, 05:41 PM
Next year is going to be interesting, unless we can land a big time transfer or two. A not-quite lame duck HC with a lot of inexperienced players missing key components of the front court. Sound like a DePaul team. We are in a bit of a tough spot with this roster, and I'm not sure that there is a quick-fix out there.

To be honest next year I would be fine if we just gave our guys the run and developed them by playing them. Play the freshman and sophomores, Kunkel, Zach and Stanley and just let it go. I wouldn’t add any more than 1 or 2 transfers and they better be a can’t miss for what you need. Maybe one guard and one big and hopefully they won’t just be here for a year but ideally two or three year guys.

xukeith
03-15-2021, 05:43 PM
Maybe this guy would help in the middle:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtFbgf8iksE

Looks like he had an extremely good year as a frosh too. He has 2 years of eligibility left. Good numbers Big kid.

xukeith
03-15-2021, 05:47 PM
To be honest next year I would be fine if we just gave our guys the run and developed them by playing them. Play the freshman and sophomores, Kunkel, Zach and Stanley and just let it go. I wouldn’t add any more than 1 or 2 transfers and they better be a can’t miss for what you need. Maybe one guard and one big and hopefully they won’t just be here for a year but ideally two or three year guys.

I wish that would happen too. Freshmen dot stay anywhere unless they are a contributing factor. It is difficult to get really good frosh every year and it is a gamble. Transfers and the quantity of them at X seems high but it has been the norm at X for awhile(12 years) . This past year was an oddity due teh whole world spreading a virus and new transfer/eligibility rules.

xukeith
03-15-2021, 05:50 PM
Maybe this guy would help in the middle:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtFbgf8iksE

He must have won A10 frosh of the year last season

paulxu
03-15-2021, 06:10 PM
He did.

LOLmickcronin
03-15-2021, 07:12 PM
To be honest next year I would be fine if we just gave our guys the run and developed them by playing them. Play the freshman and sophomores, Kunkel, Zach and Stanley and just let it go. I wouldn’t add any more than 1 or 2 transfers and they better be a can’t miss for what you need. Maybe one guard and one big and hopefully they won’t just be here for a year but ideally two or three year guys.

We’re going to have to do that one of these years or we’re going to lose 2-3 transfers per year and replace them with mid major or lower transfers that are more mature and 10% better than our incoming freshmen and continue the same cycle.

Masterofreality
03-15-2021, 07:14 PM
Agreed, that is the missing piece. Swing and miss with Ramsay and Miles. Just saying the underclass man have good pieces to build around. They do play together right now though, one of the top assists teams in the country.

And for awhile now I’ve said Hankins would’ve been perfect for this team.

Hankins barely played the first half of the year we had him, so what makes you think Steele would have used him in his vaulted “system”?

Xavier
03-15-2021, 09:22 PM
He started 22 of his last 23 games at X. IMO it was definitely unconventional to go Jones and Hankins together, not something I would’ve thought would bring success. It isn’t common to have two bangers that can’t really score outside of 7 feet playing together. I was wrong and I was impressed Steele made that adjustment and turned that team into one of the better defensive teams in the country by the end of the season.

drudy23
03-15-2021, 09:39 PM
We lose our best 3 shooters (Paul, KyKy and Nate) and don't even have a producing banger on the roster.

Not to mention most of those remaining are undersized when compared to their Big East counterparts.

If 2-3 immediate impact transfers aren't landed, we won't find ourselves in the top half of the Big East with what's coming back, and you can forget a tournament bid. In the A10, maybe we pull it off. It's just not enough in this conference. We are going to be picked in the bottom tier next year for sure.

Xavier
03-15-2021, 09:45 PM
It’s tough when the only thing that would bring excitement this summer/next year is a coaching search and new coach. We will have to suffer through this for one more season. Here is to hoping they land those transfers.

D-West & PO-Z
03-15-2021, 11:35 PM
To be honest next year I would be fine if we just gave our guys the run and developed them by playing them. Play the freshman and sophomores, Kunkel, Zach and Stanley and just let it go. I wouldn’t add any more than 1 or 2 transfers and they better be a can’t miss for what you need. Maybe one guard and one big and hopefully they won’t just be here for a year but ideally two or three year guys.

Steele will be doing anything and everything to get significantly better for even just one year. He does not have the luxury of time. He cant miss the tournament again.

xavierj
03-15-2021, 11:49 PM
Steele will be doing anything and everything to get significantly better for even just one year. He does not have the luxury of time. He cant miss the tournament again.

Says crazy fans on message boards. Don’t be surprised if they don’t go all transfer portal crazy. Travis has a lot longer leash than what fans want to believe. Is it right, maybe or maybe not, but if he sticks to his guys and builds from within rather than bring in a ton of new guys, they are not firing him. To be honest even if he misses the tourney he isn’t getting fired next year. And probably less likely to get fired if he goes young and builds with the guys he recruited. Let them grow and let the program grow. Get old with your guys. I would be fine with that. I am kind of tired of the disjointed bring in 6 new guys every year and we can’t get them to mesh. Have some consistency and some continuity.

D-West & PO-Z
03-16-2021, 12:13 AM
Says crazy fans on message boards. Don’t be surprised if they don’t go all transfer portal crazy. Travis has a lot longer leash than what fans want to believe. Is it right, maybe or maybe not, but if he sticks to his guys and builds from within rather than bring in a ton of new guys, they are not firing him. To be honest even if he misses the tourney he isn’t getting fired next year. And probably less likely to get fired if he goes young and builds with the guys he recruited. Let them grow and let the program grow. Get old with your guys. I would be fine with that. I am kind of tired of the disjointed bring in 6 new guys every year and we can’t get them to mesh. Have some consistency and some continuity.

What year did we bring in 6 new guys? Do you mean just transfers or transfers + frosh?

What is your definition of transfer portal crazy?

If Xavier doesnt land a significant transfer or two for next year it is going to be a very rough season.

It is all fine and good to say Steele has a long leash, the school might feel that way, but it is a completely different thing to remain feeling that way and those types of leashes can completely disappear given the right set of circumstances. Steele probably doesnt want to risk that. Why would he not want to improve the team for next year?

UCGRAD4X
03-16-2021, 06:19 AM
Says crazy fans on message boards. Don’t be surprised if they don’t go all transfer portal crazy. Travis has a lot longer leash than what fans want to believe. Is it right, maybe or maybe not, but if he sticks to his guys and builds from within rather than bring in a ton of new guys, they are not firing him. To be honest even if he misses the tourney he isn’t getting fired next year. And probably less likely to get fired if he goes young and builds with the guys he recruited. Let them grow and let the program grow. Get old with your guys. I would be fine with that. I am kind of tired of the disjointed bring in 6 new guys every year and we can’t get them to mesh. Have some consistency and some continuity.

It is difficulty to grow within when your guys are jumping ship before that can happen. I agree in theory. But that is really part of the problem. Travis is not setting up a system where that can take place. It may be too late to start this next year with the way he has recruited. Then, how long would it take to see that pay off and evaluate its efficacy?

Besides, if Steele were to change his ways and move in a different direction, it would be the first time.

xavierj
03-16-2021, 07:22 AM
It is difficulty to grow within when your guys are jumping ship before that can happen. I agree in theory. But that is really part of the problem. Travis is not setting up a system where that can take place. It may be too late to start this next year with the way he has recruited. Then, how long would it take to see that pay off and evaluate its efficacy?

Besides, if Steele were to change his ways and move in a different direction, it would be the first time.

So next year they have I will say 5 core guys that we will be here longer than another year and you also have Stanley and maybe Griffin. You also have two big freshman coming in. It’s imperative for the future of this program to make sure the freshman and sophomore class play a lot and develop. So when Odom, Witcher and Jone are seniors and Tucker and Edwards are juniors, you have a team that can compete and beat anyone. I don’t want to bring in transfers and hinder the development of the guys that can change the trajectory of the program. On paper those five guys that will be freshman and sophomores can be really good in a couple of years. They have size and shooting at every position except the PG, but the PG is athletic, fast and strong. You have to make sure those five guys work. If you bring in transfers they need to limit to no more than two and they better be sure fire studs.

bleedXblue
03-16-2021, 07:30 AM
So next year they have I will say 5 core guys that we will be here longer than another year and you also have Stanley and maybe Griffin. You also have two big freshman coming in. It’s imperative for the future of this program to make sure the freshman and sophomore class play a lot and develop. So when Odom, Witcher and Jone are seniors and Tucker and Edwards are juniors, you have a team that can compete and beat anyone. I don’t want to bring in transfers and hinder the development of the guys that can change the trajectory of the program. On paper those five guys that will be freshman and sophomores can be really good in a couple of years. They have size and shooting at every position except the PG, but the PG is athletic, fast and strong. You have to make sure those five guys work. If you bring in transfers they need to limit to no more than two and they better be sure fire studs.

Biggest frustration this year was playing guys (transfers) ahead of 3 sophomores that needed development. Yeah, Miles had some injury issues he last 10 games or so, but he hardly played the first 10 games. Add to that Ramsey who was "eligible to play", but didn't?

xuphan
03-16-2021, 07:53 AM
Biggest frustration this year was playing guys (transfers) ahead of 3 sophomores that needed development. Yeah, Miles had some injury issues he last 10 games or so, but he hardly played the first 10 games. Add to that Ramsey who was "eligible to play", but didn't?

Biggest frustration was the coach. This team had more than enough talent to make it to the NCAA tournament but Steele’s inability to utilize the players to the best of their abilities along with his stubbornness to adjust from his gameplan led to another year without the NCAA tournament.

xavierj
03-16-2021, 07:55 AM
Biggest frustration was the coach. This team had more than enough talent to make it to the NCAA tournament but SteeleÂ’s inability to utilize the players to the best of their abilities along with his stubbornness to adjust from his gameplan led to another year without the NCAA tournament.

I agree. He for two years played transfers instead of making sure to develop his guys.

Xville
03-16-2021, 07:56 AM
So next year they have I will say 5 core guys that we will be here longer than another year and you also have Stanley and maybe Griffin. You also have two big freshman coming in. It’s imperative for the future of this program to make sure the freshman and sophomore class play a lot and develop. So when Odom, Witcher and Jone are seniors and Tucker and Edwards are juniors, you have a team that can compete and beat anyone. I don’t want to bring in transfers and hinder the development of the guys that can change the trajectory of the program. On paper those five guys that will be freshman and sophomores can be really good in a couple of years. They have size and shooting at every position except the PG, but the PG is athletic, fast and strong. You have to make sure those five guys work. If you bring in transfers they need to limit to no more than two and they better be sure fire studs.

I agree with this, but there is still a giant hole in the middle that needs to be filled if griffin or miles isn’t good enough. So, at least one transfer big is needed unless the team wants to be punked in the big east again. I’m also not convinced this coach and its staff can develop anyone so that gives me pause as well.

XUGRAD80
03-16-2021, 08:39 AM
So if the coach plays all these young guys, and the team gets its butt kicked because these young players aren’t ready to compete against the BE and other top OCC teams, will y’all be bitching and moaning about them losing? Or will y’all be saying,”well they are just developing their young players! Be patient!”?

After reading this board for a few years now, I seriously can’t imagine very many here showing any patience.

Just an observation...not a judgement. :stop:

UCGRAD4X
03-16-2021, 08:44 AM
So next year they have I will say 5 core guys that we will be here longer than another year and you also have Stanley and maybe Griffin. You also have two big freshman coming in. It’s imperative for the future of this program to make sure the freshman and sophomore class play a lot and develop. So when Odom, Witcher and Jone are seniors and Tucker and Edwards are juniors, you have a team that can compete and beat anyone. I don’t want to bring in transfers and hinder the development of the guys that can change the trajectory of the program. On paper those five guys that will be freshman and sophomores can be really good in a couple of years. They have size and shooting at every position except the PG, but the PG is athletic, fast and strong. You have to make sure those five guys work. If you bring in transfers they need to limit to no more than two and they better be sure fire studs.

Ifs and buts being fruits and nuts....

I agree 100%.

What are the chances Steele changes his ways?

I still call him Steele (as opposed to aluminum, for example) because he is so rigid and getting very rusty.

xavierj
03-16-2021, 08:58 AM
Ifs and buts being fruits and nuts....

I agree 100%.

What are the chances Steele changes his ways?

I still call him Steele (as opposed to aluminum, for example) because he is so rigid and getting very rusty.

Exactly. Hopefully he learns to adapt as part of his coaching progression. Get out of his comfort zone.

drudy23
03-16-2021, 09:03 AM
We will have to wait and see who is leaving and who is coming back, but if Griffin returns and he plays him the same way he did this year, what's the point? Same with Miles. I'm guessing those 2 are thinking the same thing.

So we either have them and they play and we roll with them and hope they are good enough, or you need two stud big guys from the portal. The big man dilemma is priority number one for this team. The core guards returning are good enough - we need a banger and a rim protector.

Does Torraye Braggs have any kids?

D-West & PO-Z
03-16-2021, 09:43 AM
So next year they have I will say 5 core guys that we will be here longer than another year and you also have Stanley and maybe Griffin. You also have two big freshman coming in. It’s imperative for the future of this program to make sure the freshman and sophomore class play a lot and develop. So when Odom, Witcher and Jone are seniors and Tucker and Edwards are juniors, you have a team that can compete and beat anyone. I don’t want to bring in transfers and hinder the development of the guys that can change the trajectory of the program. On paper those five guys that will be freshman and sophomores can be really good in a couple of years. They have size and shooting at every position except the PG, but the PG is athletic, fast and strong. You have to make sure those five guys work. If you bring in transfers they need to limit to no more than two and they better be sure fire studs.

I just really dont agree with this take and think you are going to be sorely disappointed if you think finding and using transfers is going anywhere.

Steele didn't not play Miles bc he was playing Griffin some huge mins. He didn't play him because he 1. wasnt fully healthy and 2. didn't trust him. He didn't trust Kyky either. It wasnt out of some obligation to get the transfers mins they didnt deserve.

If your theory is Steele is going to throw away next season to try and ensure we are really good in 2 seasons I think you are going to be really disappointed. Or you will be right and Steele wont be here for that senior season of our freshman.

Masterofreality
03-16-2021, 10:10 AM
So next year they have I will say 5 core guys that we will be here longer than another year and you also have Stanley and maybe Griffin. You also have two big freshman coming in. It’s imperative for the future of this program to make sure the freshman and sophomore class play a lot and develop. So when Odom, Witcher and Jone are seniors and Tucker and Edwards are juniors, you have a team that can compete and beat anyone. I don’t want to bring in transfers and hinder the development of the guys that can change the trajectory of the program. On paper those five guys that will be freshman and sophomores can be really good in a couple of years. They have size and shooting at every position except the PG, but the PG is athletic, fast and strong. You have to make sure those five guys work. If you bring in transfers they need to limit to no more than two and they better be sure fire studs.

Daniel Ramsey just entered the transfer portal..
2 down more to go?
Great job of development Steele hiding behind “injury”

drudy23
03-16-2021, 10:27 AM
I just really dont agree with this take and think you are going to be sorely disappointed if you think finding and using transfers is going anywhere.

Steele didn't not play Miles bc he was playing Griffin some huge mins. He didn't play him because he 1. wasnt fully healthy and 2. didn't trust him. He didn't trust Kyky either. It wasnt out of some obligation to get the transfers mins they didnt deserve.

If your theory is Steele is going to throw away next season to try and ensure we are really good in 2 seasons I think you are going to be really disappointed. Or you will be right and Steele wont be here for that senior season of our freshman.

I agree - if Steele goes into next season as more of a developmental year than a tournament year, he's not very smart.

Have to start getting results.

XUGRAD80
03-16-2021, 10:41 AM
By my count X now has 4 open spots, in addition to the 2 Freshman coming in. So up to 6 new players next year...again. If Miles leaves (have a gut feeling he’s not going to leave) that would add one more. One of the returning players would be Stanley, and we don’t really know at this point what his physical condition is going to be. Also possible that Griffin, Johnson, and even Scruggs could return....but I doubt any of them do.

It my opinion that without someone that can play the middle and be at the very least a decent all-round player, that the team will not be any more than an also ran in the BE next year. So either Miles has to vastly improve, or the freshman be real surprises, or they must bring a high quality transfer big in.

Q....how many quality big transfers do you think are out are out there? A....few, if any.

Xavier
03-16-2021, 11:05 AM
The bigger transfers I am aware of are the Center from Kentucky and the kid from Umass- either would fill big voids and start to give some hope that next could be better.

GOX
03-16-2021, 11:06 AM
A few questions based on the previous posts:
Having watched the Big East Tournament : (a). How many of Xaviers current players would start on the top 5 Big East teams? (b). Do you believe Xavier’s roster was capable of finishing in the top 3 of the Big East if Jay Wright had coached them? If you were Greg Christopher, and were going to continue to employ Coach Steele , what would you tell him he had to accomplish next year to get to year 5 .

Do you believe the transfer portal/ immediate eligibility has forever changed College Basketball with players coming and going creating a lack of continuity and yearly roster construction ? If yes, what Coaching skill set do you believe would best suit that paradigm? Has this paradigm changed , or will it change , your interest in Xavier basketball and/ or college basketball in general ?

drudy23
03-16-2021, 11:16 AM
A few questions based on the previous posts:
Having watched the Big East Tournament : (a). How many of Xaviers current players would start on the top 5 Big East teams? (b). Do you believe Xavier’s roster was capable of finishing in the top 3 of the Big East if Jay Wright had coached them? If you were Greg Christopher, and were going to continue to employ Coach Steele , what would you tell him he had to accomplish next year to get to year 5 .

Do you believe the transfer portal/ immediate eligibility has forever changed College Basketball with players coming and going creating a lack of continuity and yearly roster construction ? If yes, what Coaching skill set do you believe would best suit that paradigm? Has this paradigm changed , or will it change , your interest in Xavier basketball and/ or college basketball in general ?

Great questions:

1) I think Free and Scruggs are probably our only starters on the top half of teams. I think most of our regulars would get some run besides Carter, including Tandy
2) Maybe Wright gets us to 3, but that would have been the ceiling - in the 4-5 range seems right and would have gotten us in the tournament
3) Has to make the tournament
4) Regardless of how many people keep saying "it's all about the transfers now", its best use is to supplement holes on your bench. If you have to constantly bring in transfer to fill starting minutes, you're never going to build the foundation needed for high success. That type of roster turnover every year it's impossible to build an identity - poor man's Kentucky.

Xville
03-16-2021, 11:30 AM
The bigger transfers I am aware of are the Center from Kentucky and the kid from Umass- either would fill big voids and start to give some hope that next could be better.

What Center from Kentucky is transferring? Only one I know that is transferring so far from there is fletcher.

Xavier
03-16-2021, 11:33 AM
What Center from Kentucky is transferring? Only one I know that is transferring so far from there is fletcher.

You're right-- I misread the report.

XUGRAD80
03-16-2021, 11:41 AM
The bigger transfers I am aware of are the Center from Kentucky and the kid from Umass- either would fill big voids and start to give some hope that next could be better.

There ARE some centers that have entered the transfer portal. But, unless the rule gets changed to give them immediate eligibility, very few of them would be able to play next year. The best one appears to be a RS JR from UIC that averaged 10 pts, 5 rebs, 1 asst. But who knows how that transfers to the BE. Kid is listed at 6-10/225 Was a JC transfer from North Fla. to UIC, now wants to transfer out. From North Georgia. Maybe he’s homesick for some warm weather?

D-West & PO-Z
03-16-2021, 11:44 AM
There ARE some centers that have entered the transfer portal. But, unless the rule gets changed to give them immediate eligibility, very few of them would be able to play next year. The best one appears to be a RS JR from UIC that averaged 10 pts, 5 rebs, 1 asst. But who knows how that transfers to the BE. Kid is listed at 6-10/225 Was a JC transfer from North Fla. to UIC, now wants to transfer out. From North Georgia. Maybe he’s homesick for some warm weather?

Isn't it just a formality now and the rule will be changed? That was my understanding. Maybe I am wrong and there is a chance it wont?

XUGRAD80
03-16-2021, 11:48 AM
Isn't it just a formality now and the rule will be changed? That was my understanding. Maybe I am wrong and there is a chance it wont?

“ it’s never over until it’s over. “. Can we ever count on the NCAA to do the right thing, or even the intelligent thing?

D-West & PO-Z
03-16-2021, 11:53 AM
“ it’s never over until it’s over. “. Can we ever count on the NCAA to do the right thing, or even the intelligent thing?

Fair point

xukeith
03-16-2021, 12:24 PM
Biggest frustration this year was playing guys (transfers) ahead of 3 sophomores that needed development. Yeah, Miles had some injury issues he last 10 games or so, but he hardly played the first 10 games. Add to that Ramsey who was "eligible to play", but didn't?

For all we know, Ramsey and Miles were greatly deficient in basketball skills because of injuries and lack of conditioning (being out sick) .

Maybe now with covid ending and Miles has more time for strength and pick up games, confidence and skills will grow.

xukeith
03-16-2021, 12:29 PM
By my count X now has 4 open spots, in addition to the 2 Freshman coming in. So up to 6 new players next year...again. If Miles leaves (have a gut feeling he’s not going to leave) that would add one more. One of the returning players would be Stanley, and we don’t really know at this point what his physical condition is going to be. Also possible that Griffin, Johnson, and even Scruggs could return....but I doubt any of them do.

It my opinion that without someone that can play the middle and be at the very least a decent all-round player, that the team will not be any more than an also ran in the BE next year. So either Miles has to vastly improve, or the freshman be real surprises, or they must bring a high quality transfer big in.

Q....how many quality big transfers do you think are out are out there? A....few, if any.

i would guess that in transfer portal, there are 8-15 talented big men who could play and not embarrass themselves in the BE. Problem is that the top bball conferences will probably get these transfers with strong competition. X has to get lucky. I searched D2 transfers too who have at least height of 6'7-6'9 , 2 blocked shots a game and 6 rebounds. There are only 5 who meet that criteria in D2.

MHettel
03-16-2021, 12:33 PM
I for one would like to see Griffin return. He only played in 18 games and 197 minutes total last year, but he was productive in the areas we need . Good rebounder, shot blocker, and shoots a high % inside.

Griffin has the upside to improve in my mind. We had a strange year and practice time was impacted. He was quarantined for a stretch and probably didn't have his cardio where it needed to be. A think a regular, full season where he was at the top of his game could be (part of) an answer for addressing our interior needs.

Griffin redshirted at Mercy and then played 3 years. Then had a year at X. He's gotta be 22-23 years old already. As much as I'd like him to come back, it just seems unlikely.

When it comes to using the portal, I'm assuming this is just reality for us again this year. But I'd RATHER get 2-3 guys that have multiple years left than a bunch of dudes with 1 year eligibility remaining. We need some continuity. Going back to the portal for a series of guys on "1 year deals" is pretty much a vicious cycle....

xavierj
03-16-2021, 12:39 PM
I for one would like to see Griffin return. He only played in 18 games and 197 minutes total last year, but he was productive in the areas we need . Good rebounder, shot blocker, and shoots a high % inside.

Griffin has the upside to improve in my mind. We had a strange year and practice time was impacted. He was quarantined for a stretch and probably didn't have his cardio where it needed to be. A think a regular, full season where he was at the top of his game could be (part of) an answer for addressing our interior needs.

Griffin redshirted at Mercy and then played 3 years. Then had a year at X. He's gotta be 22-23 years old already. As much as I'd like him to come back, it just seems unlikely.

When it comes to using the portal, I'm assuming this is just reality for us again this year. But I'd RATHER get 2-3 guys that have multiple years left than a bunch of dudes with 1 year eligibility remaining. We need some continuity. Going back to the portal for a series of guys on "1 year deals" is pretty much a vicious cycle....

I agree 100%. Skip the guys that are gone before you even know them. Get guys that will be here for awhile. Considering 6000 guys entered the portal this morning, I would say you can be very picky what you bring in.

Xuperman
03-16-2021, 12:40 PM
Verbal Commits keeps an updated transfer portal listing....as of right now the total # of players for 2021 is up to 420. Already. Lots more to come.

Make that 462....42 more just this afternoon.

And March Madness has just begun! There certainly will be a flood of top transfer talent enter portal after the tournament. X will have no problem finding a couple of quality guys that can produce in the frontcourt, preferably with solid defensive reputation...Free needs HELP.

Aside from that, here is the bare bone basic reality going into the fall.

Freemantle is one of the top players in conference. Not crazy to think a 1st team ALL BE preseason selection.

CoJo is one of the top 5 true frosh in the BE, rolling with high upside into year 2. A rock solid multi tooled guy, with proven high production ability.

Odom is a future star in this league, will make an argument as top PG sooner than later. I'm seeing 12/6/6 and a stud on defense for team 100.

Kunk can play flat out play at this level. One could argue he was our top effort guy and he WILL score. Perfect combination for an essential 6th man.

CJ shown he is what his reputation said he was...a cut throat sniper! Text book instant offense...Big, strong, athletic. Gets my attitude of the year award.

Stanley, if he returns, is huge! Just from the fact he is a nasty/physical presence in the frontcourt, which is sorely needed, but he will score in bunches.

Edwards and Tucker both arrive on the rise. Both fill a need, particularly Edwards to bolster our thin frontcourt...Tucker to add scoring/athleticism depth.
If just one of these guys can be effective as a role player, things are that much better.

Can there be a strong case to contradict any of these points?

Now IF these guys hold steady, X has a very talented and proven young roster with mass potential.....also a noticeable and very strong chemistry is being built here.

drudy23
03-16-2021, 12:40 PM
I for one would like to see Griffin return. He only played in 18 games and 197 minutes total last year, but he was productive in the areas we need . Good rebounder, shot blocker, and shoots a high % inside.

Griffin has the upside to improve in my mind. We had a strange year and practice time was impacted. He was quarantined for a stretch and probably didn't have his cardio where it needed to be. A think a regular, full season where he was at the top of his game could be (part of) an answer for addressing our interior needs.

Griffin redshirted at Mercy and then played 3 years. Then had a year at X. He's gotta be 22-23 years old already. As much as I'd like him to come back, it just seems unlikely.

When it comes to using the portal, I'm assuming this is just reality for us again this year. But I'd RATHER get 2-3 guys that have multiple years left than a bunch of dudes with 1 year eligibility remaining. We need some continuity. Going back to the portal for a series of guys on "1 year deals" is pretty much a vicious cycle....

We desperately needed his skill THIS year and he didn't play him. Why would Griffin return unless he gets a blood oath from Steele that he's actually going to play significant minutes?

XUGRAD80
03-16-2021, 01:04 PM
We desperately needed his skill THIS year and he didn't play him. Why would Griffin return unless he gets a blood oath from Steele that he's actually going to play significant minutes?

Griffin averaged 11.0 min per game over 18 games, so he missed 3 games. Carter got 26.6 mins per game and played all 21 games. With Carter gone, that opens up A LOT of minutes for Griffin. And I would think that many of those minutes would be on the floor at the same time as Freemantle (who averaged 31.5 mins. per game). Even if he does come back I’d still like to see X another true inside big man.

UCGRAD4X
03-16-2021, 01:59 PM
Griffin averaged 11.0 min per game over 18 games, so he missed 3 games. Carter got 26.6 mins per game and played all 21 games. With Carter gone, that opens up A LOT of minutes for Griffin. And I would think that many of those minutes would be on the floor at the same time as Freemantle (who averaged 31.5 mins. per game). Even if he does come back I’d still like to see X another true inside big man.

I would like to see them bring in two and hope between them and Miles, one of them can provide some quality minutes under the basket with and without Free. We are going to have the roster spots so why not hedge your bets and bring in two. The major downside is if they suck, but play hard in practice...

xukeith
03-16-2021, 02:21 PM
I would like to see them bring in two and hope between them and Miles, one of them can provide some quality minutes under the basket with and without Free. We are going to have the roster spots so why not hedge your bets and bring in two. The major downside is if they suck, but play hard in practice...

You have to be nimble.
I am sure Villanova and SJU would lick their chops vs slow lumbering post players.

D-West & PO-Z
03-16-2021, 02:28 PM
Nate johnson is coming back!!!!!!!!!

drudy23
03-16-2021, 06:40 PM
Sounds like it's really imploding over in Clifton...

They might not have a team left.

Xville
03-16-2021, 06:47 PM
Sounds like it's really imploding over in Clifton...

They might not have a team left.

Zach Harvey is an interesting case...top 50 recruit and hasn’t shown much

Xavier
03-16-2021, 07:03 PM
What is going on over there? Seriously...they all just hate the coach? It’s a complete reset of the program now, right? I would’ve thought an offensive guy like Brannen would be fun to play for. He’s set them so far back

xukeith
03-16-2021, 07:24 PM
What is going on over there? Seriously...they all just hate the coach? It’s a complete reset of the program now, right? I would’ve thought an offensive guy like Brannen would be fun to play for. He’s set them so far back

I will give Brannen props. He took the leftovers and coached them into a championship game albeit for the AAAAAC.

Xville
03-16-2021, 07:34 PM
Outside of the umass big, who is available forward wise in the transfer market?

ArizonaXUGrad
03-16-2021, 07:57 PM
I am hearing Brannen has either become a disciplinarian or just never told anyone including recruits that he was. This seems to be players being told one thing and experiencing another but at this point it is all just rumor. It's unfortunate, the rivalry is better when both teams are good. This season nobody was and the game just wasn't as exciting.

It's not like we are it any better. Our coach is trash. We have the country's best outside shooter, but he has injury issues. We have no size.

Transfers are prevalent across the NCAA this season.

Edit: If they lose anymore including Eason, it will be huge trouble for Brannen. Edit x 2: Eason is gone. UC is in a bit of trouble but this is the year for it to happen. That portal is going to be loaded with guys.

noteggs
03-16-2021, 08:33 PM
UC is also losing Mike Saunders Jr. This doesn’t include those who opted out during the season. With the lack of recruiting this year, SucKS and Brannen having big time problems. This off season is going to be whacked with the new rules!

xuphan
03-16-2021, 09:54 PM
Outside of the umass big, who is available forward wise in the transfer market?

More will enter in the coming weeks as the NCAA tournament finishes up. The question will be if Steele does go into the transfer market for a big or if he is content with Miles, Edwards, Freemantle, Stanley and possible Carter.

xavierj
03-16-2021, 10:03 PM
UC is also losing Mike Saunders Jr. This doesn’t include those who opted out during the season. With the lack of recruiting this year, SucKS and Brannen having big time problems. This off season is going to be whacked with the new rules!

Hearing Brannen may no longer be the coach by the weekend. Players have revolted. It’s a mess. 5 transfers in 24 hours and at least one more expected, if not more, and no one signed for next year. Players are pissed. I know Saunders said the only reason he is leaving is because of the coach. Not good.

Masterofreality
03-16-2021, 10:13 PM
Hearing Brannen may no longer be the coach by the weekend. Players have revolted. It’s a mess. 5 transfers in 24 hours and at least one more expected, if not more, and no one signed for next year. Players are pissed. I know Saunders said the only reason he is leaving is because of the coach. Not good.

SucKS can’t afford the buyout. :-)

UCGRAD4X
03-17-2021, 06:19 AM
Hearing Brannen may no longer be the coach by the weekend. Players have revolted. It’s a mess. 5 transfers in 24 hours and at least one more expected, if not more, and no one signed for next year. Players are pissed. I know Saunders said the only reason he is leaving is because of the coach. Not good.

Brennan not enough of a short, whiney, abusive thug for them.

He wouldn't even take their jerseys!

Can't abide.

xavierj
03-17-2021, 06:35 AM
Brennan not enough of a short, whiney, abusive thug for them.

He wouldn't even take their jerseys!

Can't abide.

lol right. Something is up with that guy though. When he was at NKU the first time he made the tourney, he had to starters immediately transfer after the season was over and they were not leaving to go to a bigger school.

paulxu
04-09-2021, 11:04 AM
It seems like 7 BE teams have a slot.
Maybe we'll go to the Hawaiian Airlines one?

https://www.bloggingthebracket.com/2021/2/17/22287581/2021-22-mens-college-basketball-exempt-multi-team-events-mte-thanksgiving-early-season-tournaments

UCGRAD4X
04-09-2021, 03:28 PM
It seems like 7 BE teams have a slot.
Maybe we'll go to the Hawaiian Airlines one?

https://www.bloggingthebracket.com/2021/2/17/22287581/2021-22-mens-college-basketball-exempt-multi-team-events-mte-thanksgiving-early-season-tournaments

I don't what's going on there on Victory Parkway but they have to jump on one of these. With the exemption, there should not be a lack of teams wanting to participate. Get it done boys.

MADXSTER
04-09-2021, 09:33 PM
Xavier's next 5 is going to be better than just about everyone else's next 5.

MADXSTER
04-09-2021, 09:36 PM
In the Big department. Xavier has Free who can score, Miles the rim protector and now Nunge who can match up with Nate Watson. Last year Xavier had no answer for Watson.

bleedXblue
04-10-2021, 08:57 AM
Xavier's next 5 is going to be better than just about everyone else's next 5.

if only we had a coaching staff that knew how to utilize such a deep roster

xukeith
04-10-2021, 09:04 AM
if only we had a coaching staff that knew how to utilize such a deep roster

There is a chance this season may be different with Steele being allowed to practice his team. Who knows. Maybe there will be some cool out of bounds plays.

markchal
04-10-2021, 09:05 AM
Miles the rim protector

you can really tell it's the offseason when we talk ourselves into Miles being a rotation player again

MADXSTER
04-10-2021, 10:18 AM
you can really tell it's the offseason when we talk ourselves into Miles being a rotation player again

Well actually he's never been a rotational player. But what I was trying to point out is that Xavier has many different tools in the tool belt.

UCGRAD4X
04-10-2021, 10:31 AM
Well actually he's never been a rotational player. But what I was trying to point out is that Xavier has many different tools in the tool belt.

I think he meant the "talking about" part as "again".

xavierj
04-10-2021, 11:07 AM
you can really tell it's the offseason when we talk ourselves into Miles being a rotation player again

Jonas still thinks he can be a pro which I am sure he knows more than any of us but we will see. Big offseason for him.

xukeith
04-10-2021, 11:20 AM
Xavier's next 5 is going to be better than just about everyone else's next 5.

Xavier's first 5 might be not all better than other's first 5. (Villanova, Seton Hall?)

JTG
04-10-2021, 12:22 PM
Xavier's next 5 is going to be better than just about everyone else's next 5.

This might be a good reason to institute a Baylor style, in your face, defense, with some platooning. Turning defense, into offense, is the easiest way to score and demoralizing to the opposition. Certainly not D1 bball by any means, but I used it to win 4 CYO HS City Championships in the 90s. Watching Baylor Monday night reminded me of a fish tank full of piranha.

UCGRAD4X
04-10-2021, 04:13 PM
This might be a good reason to institute a Baylor style, in your face, defense, with some platooning. Turning defense, into offense, is the easiest way to score and demoralizing to the opposition. Certainly not D1 bball by any means, but I used it to win 4 CYO HS City Championships in the 90s. Watching Baylor Monday night reminded me of a fish tank full of piranha.

I would certainly be all in on that approach. I always like the 'gotta play defense or you don't see the court' philosophy of the past and despite Travis's early proclamation of a defensive focus, I think it is an approach whose time has come.

What do we have to lose?

MHettel
04-10-2021, 04:52 PM
This might be a good reason to institute a Baylor style, in your face, defense, with some platooning. Turning defense, into offense, is the easiest way to score and demoralizing to the opposition. Certainly not D1 bball by any means, but I used it to win 4 CYO HS City Championships in the 90s. Watching Baylor Monday night reminded me of a fish tank full of piranha.

We should have done that THIS year.

Steele must have a plan to play 4 guards or I can’t see how he could convince KyKy to stay. We’re bringing 4 guards back and a couple wings. PT will be a battle, unless the plan is to go small. Play style needs to be fast in that case. Can’t get caught in the half court with an undersized lineup

xavierj
04-10-2021, 05:21 PM
We should have done that THIS year.

Steele must have a plan to play 4 guards or I can’t see how he could convince KyKy to stay. We’re bringing 4 guards back and a couple wings. PT will be a battle, unless the plan is to go small. Play style needs to be fast in that case. Can’t get caught in the half court with an undersized lineup

I think if the Iowa transfer is healthy he plans to play him a lot with Zach. That would be ideal as he has a good offence skill set and is also big and long and can rebound and affect shots. Might be a situation where Johnson or Colby is the 6th man which is fine too. Will have 5 4/5’s on the roster next year.

Xavier
04-10-2021, 08:16 PM
This might be a good reason to institute a Baylor style, in your face, defense, with some platooning. Turning defense, into offense, is the easiest way to score and demoralizing to the opposition. Certainly not D1 bball by any means, but I used it to win 4 CYO HS City Championships in the 90s. Watching Baylor Monday night reminded me of a fish tank full of piranha.

...so easy to say. “We should look to be Baylor style of defense”. We don’t have near the athletes to do that. Frankly, most schools don’t have anywhere near that defensive ability, Xavier included

Jumpin_Jamal_Forever
04-10-2021, 08:55 PM
We should have done that THIS year.

Steele must have a plan to play 4 guards or I can’t see how he could convince KyKy to stay. We’re bringing 4 guards back and a couple wings. PT will be a battle, unless the plan is to go small. Play style needs to be fast in that case. Can’t get caught in the half court with an undersized lineup

Yes. There was no reason for not instituting just such an attacking defense this past season although perhaps the lack of upfront rebounders was a factor. Next year it should be a must. We have five guards (not four)---Scruggs, Johnson, Odom, Kunkel and Tandy. We have two post players (Nunge and Miles) and we have Jones, Stanley and ZFree. That's ten players, before including the two freshman. A poster from several months back suggested the way to solve the player rotation challenge is to run hard at both ends of the court. With five guards, we should have the ball handling skills to make it work. The players would, I think, beg for a rest and I think bitching about not having enough P.T. would go away. That is exactly what I would do were I Steele. Yes you may lose some rhythm shuffling players in and out but these guys have played and practiced together enough that it seems like it should work.

If Steele comes out next year with the same old, same old offense, I'm afraid I will lose my mind.

xuwin
04-11-2021, 09:54 AM
The key to being able to play all out pressing type defense is to have a rim protector for when they get beat. Nunge will have to be that guy since no one else has shown that ability to date. Miles has the athletic ability to be that guy if he shows a lot of progress and gets stronger.

Xer4ever
04-11-2021, 11:32 AM
[QUOTE=Jumpin_Jamal_Forever;702428]Yes. There was no reason for not instituting just such an attacking defense this past season although perhaps the lack of upfront rebounders was a factor. Next year it should be a must. We have five guards (not four)---Scruggs, Johnson, Odom, Kunkel and Tandy. We have two post players (Nunge and Miles) and we have Jones, Stanley and ZFree. That's ten players, before including the two freshman. A poster from several months back suggested the way to solve the player rotation challenge is to run hard at both ends of the court. With five guards, we should have the ball handling skills to make it work. The players would, I think, beg for a rest and I think bitching about not having enough P.T. would go away. That is exactly what I would do were I Steele. Yes you may lose some rhythm shuffling players in and out but these guys have played and practiced together enough that it seems like it should work.

If Steele comes out next year with the same old, same old offense, I'm afraid I will lose my mind.

We actually have 6 guards with Jones, right?