2022-2023 Xavier Basketball

[markchal]

Regardless of who's leading them, it's hard to see this team getting to the tournament after losing our most capable three-point shooter and one of our only playmakers (love him or hate him).

Returning players (in order of most likely to contribute)

Nunge
Jones
Freemantle
Odom
Kunkel
Edwards
Hunter
Stanley
Miles
Tandy (?)

Incoming:
Ward
Craft
Claude

This team will have a strong frontcourt but outside of that, I'm not sure what all we will do well. Our defense takes a hit, and for a program (under Steele) historically near the bottom third in the country in outside shooting, we will rely heavily on Kunkel (and Tandy?) and Nunge for shooting. Not sure that Edwards/Stanley see any more time than they did this year unless Hunter moves to the 3, where we have Jones and our highest incoming recruit.

Biggest need would have to be a transfer guard who can shoot and play D, in the Johnson mold I guess?

Not feeling great about that group winning many games

[Xville]

Only players I want coming back are nunge, jones, Odom, Edwards and Tandy. And maybe miles.

The rest I could care less what they do. At the end of the day, none of it matters if Steele is retained. He’s a terrible head coach and hed probably fuck up the 96 bulls. If he’s not, the coach will probably clean out most of the roster and fill out thru the transfer portal as a stop gap.

[whopper]

Regardless of who's leading them, it's hard to see this team getting to the tournament after losing our most capable three-point shooter and one of our only playmakers (love him or hate him).

Returning players (in order of most likely to contribute)

Nunge
Jones
Freemantle
Odom
Kunkel
Edwards
Hunter
Stanley
Miles
Tandy (?)

Incoming:
Ward
Craft
Claude

This team will have a strong frontcourt but outside of that, I'm not sure what all we will do well. Our defense takes a hit, and for a program (under Steele) historically near the bottom third in the country in outside shooting, we will rely heavily on Kunkel (and Tandy?) and Nunge for shooting. Not sure that Edwards/Stanley see any more time than they did this year unless Hunter moves to the 3, where we have Jones and our highest incoming recruit.

Biggest need would have to be a transfer guard who can shoot and play D, in the Johnson mold I guess?

Not feeling great about that group winning many games
On paper decent team but we are a long way from seeing that team.. God only knows who will leave after this year.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Well Miller will have this team in the top 25 by mid season. This team is talented and a great coach will get them in shape.

[SM#24]

Plus Tucker. If all return/stay committed, I can coach this team to the NCAA tourney.

[beatuc]

Only players I want coming back are nunge, jones, Odom, Edwards and Tandy. And maybe miles.

The rest I could care less what they do. At the end of the day, none of it matters if Steele is retained. HeÂ’s a terrible head coach and hed probably fuck up the 96 bulls. If heÂ’s not, the coach will probably clean out most of the roster and fill out thru the transfer portal as a stop gap.

I'm not sure if this is common knowledge but I was told there would be transfer portal entries after the season and the program knows they are coming. Some are major names and some not. I won't reveal names of whom I was would definitely leave, but this has to factor into just starting from scratch.

[XUBANDGRAD]

Could definitely do without Ryan welage part 2 aka kunkel.

[drudy23]

I predict Miles and Kunkel look to transfer. Also wouldn't surprise me if Nunge plays overseas or moves on with life.

I really hope the young guys can shoot, because that problems doesn't go away unless Steele actually plays them.

Need a true heart to heart with Hunter - perhaps this isn't the best place for him.

If Steele stays, I don't expect much difference. If he goes, who knows what happens.

[beatuc]

My point being that the roster may be more depleted than people think next year. So relying on freshman and transfers with Steele next season won't be good thing. Those freshman 1 or 2 will look to transfer anyway after another abysmal season and roster. I say pull the bandaid and blow it up before it's too late.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Regardless of who's leading them, it's hard to see this team getting to the tournament after losing our most capable three-point shooter and one of our only playmakers (love him or hate him).

Returning players (in order of most likely to contribute)

Nunge
Jones
Freemantle
Odom
Kunkel
Edwards
Hunter
Stanley
Miles
Tandy (?)

Incoming:
Ward
Craft
Claude

This team will have a strong frontcourt but outside of that, I'm not sure what all we will do well. Our defense takes a hit, and for a program (under Steele) historically near the bottom third in the country in outside shooting, we will rely heavily on Kunkel (and Tandy?) and Nunge for shooting. Not sure that Edwards/Stanley see any more time than they did this year unless Hunter moves to the 3, where we have Jones and our highest incoming recruit.

Biggest need would have to be a transfer guard who can shoot and play D, in the Johnson mold I guess?

Not feeling great about that group winning many games

We need shooters and PG and maybe even a big guy. Need a lot.

Think how rejuvenating it would be to have Miller running things next year though.

Time for a change.

#SaveTheProgram

[Xville]

I'm not sure if this is common knowledge but I was told there would be transfer portal entries after the season and the program knows they are coming. Some are major names and some not. I won't reveal names of whom I was would definitely leave, but this has to factor into just starting from scratch.

None of that would surprise me. I bet there are a lot of guys gone. Nothing would surprise me considering how bad the development of the players has been. I’d leave this shit show too.

Only players I mentioned above are the ones I hope stay, but I would bet kyky, miles, and prolly nunge are gone as well.

Kunkel can definitely leave. He’s an a 10 or mac talent ala Jason carter.

[UCGRAD4X]

My point being that the roster may be more depleted than people think next year. So relying on freshman and transfers with Steele next season won't be good thing. Those freshman 1 or 2 will look to transfer anyway after another abysmal season and roster. I say pull the bandaid and blow it up before it's too late.

Yeah. I've been saying this for some time (seems like years).

Blow it up and start over! Yes we will almost certainly lose players and recruits. We will probably lose some anyway. Maybe some will actually be encouraged by a change at the top.

Who knows?

Doesn't matter.

Blow it up!

Start again!


We need shooters and PG and maybe even a big guy. Need a lot.

Think how rejuvenating it would be to have Miller running things next year though.

Time for a change.

#SaveTheProgram

Problem is, so does every other program.

Maybe if we blow it all up and start from scratch, we can (almost) guarantee some serious minutes to some serious players.

Once again.

Doesn't matter.

Lots of questions.

One answer.

BLOW IT UP!!!!

[SkyWalker]

I have another solution. First, we should keep Steele as head coach. X should leave the Big East and join the MEAC. That way Travis can coach at his level.

[muskiefan82]

I have another solution. First, we should keep Steele as head coach. X should leave the Big East and join the MEAC. That way Travis can coach at his level.

Well, Norfolk State did win that league and X did beat them by 40 so maybe this isn't a horrible idea after all...

[muskieindent]

I'd be surprised if Nunge comes back. He's 23 and already has a degree.Seems like he's going to move on. I am so unexcited about next year and I have never felt that way about Xavier basketball since I was a kid in the 70's

[Xavier]

Rotational players will transfer to and from Xavier every year. Get used to it. With transfer rule opening things up- that’s happening every year. It doesn’t necessarily reflect the coach, guys will find places that have more playing time or rolls they prefer. It’s a good and bad thing. It’s how you get players like Nunge/Bernard/Hankins (and Crawford)- but we will lose solid guys too.

I believe if you are good at managing the transfer pool you can run a successful program by having that a part of your identity. (Didn’t Beard and Tech do that with grad transfers? And I thought Arkansas did it too. Obviously Gonzaga has been successful at it). But you need a strong core- and the focus has to be on player development. I think Travis and crew create too much uncertainty for the players from year to year. Sounds like wilcher left because he was promised one thing then got recruited over by transfers. The rotations and playing time this year was confusing for everyone, with almost zero room to grow (Edwards as an example)

[SkyWalker]

Rotational players will transfer to and from Xavier every year. Get used to it. With transfer rule opening things up- that’s happening every year. It doesn’t necessarily reflect the coach, guys will find places that have more playing time or rolls they prefer. It’s a good and bad thing. It’s how you get players like Nunge/Bernard/Hankins (and Crawford)- but we will lose solid guys too.

I believe if you are good at managing the transfer pool you can run a successful program by having that a part of your identity. (Didn’t Beard and Tech do that with grad transfers? And I thought Arkansas did it too. Obviously Gonzaga has been successful at it). But you need a strong core- and the focus has to be on player development. I think Travis and crew create too much uncertainty for the players from year to year. Sounds like wilcher left because he was promised one thing then got recruited over by transfers. The rotations and playing time this year was confusing for everyone, with almost zero room to grow (Edwards as an example)

I don't disagee with your point but I also recognize there are four programs that did not dive into the transfer portal. They are Villanova, Connecticut, Purdue, and Stanford. 3 of 4 are doing pretty well. I think managing the transfer portal down the road may be as important as recruiting.

[GoMuskies]

I am so unexcited about next year and I have never felt that way about Xavier basketball since I was a kid in the 70's


I'm not particuarly excited right now, but that could all change next week if the right move is made by the administration.

[American X]

I wonder if we will see some Patrick Ewing / Bryce Harper Theory with Scruggs gone and Colby & Odom allowed to fully run the show.

[GoMuskies]

Patrick Ewing and Bryce Harper are/were good, tho.

[markchal]

I'd be surprised if Nunge comes back. He's 23 and already has a degree.Seems like he's going to move on. I am so unexcited about next year and I have never felt that way about Xavier basketball since I was a kid in the 70's

I'd be more surprised if he left. I think if that was his intention he would've done the senior night festivities. He'll be back (or playing at a better school)

[bjf123]

Nunge has said he wants to play with his brother who’ll be a walk-on next year.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[SemajParlor]

I wonder if he'll give up his scholarship to him and become an Uber driver.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

This if they hire a coach who can keep most of the roster together and keep the class, we would still be an ncaa tourney team. It would take Miller or McMahon to do it. With another Steele year, it is just more of the same. I would love to know who was on high emotion in the locker room. I bet Free/Scruggs/Odom for various reasons.

[bleedXblue]

This if they hire a coach who can keep most of the roster together and keep the class, we would still be an ncaa tourney team. It would take Miller or McMahon to do it. With another Steele year, it is just more of the same. I would love to know who was on high emotion in the locker room. I bet Free/Scruggs/Odom for various reasons.

They should have been pissed at themselves missed FT's, bad fouls

One guy basically cost us the game the guy who was brought back to be the LEADER of the team

[XUMIOH12]

Nunge has said he wants to play with his brother who’ll be a walk-on next year.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yeah I always thought he'd be gone until I saw that. Sounds like he will be back so they can be on the same team.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I don't disagee with your point but I also recognize there are four programs that did not dive into the transfer portal. They are Villanova, Connecticut, Purdue, and Stanford. 3 of 4 are doing pretty well. I think managing the transfer portal down the road may be as important as recruiting.

Isn't UConn's best player this year a transfer?

[D-West & PO-Z]

I'd be more surprised if he left. I think if that was his intention he would've done the senior night festivities. He'll be back (or playing at a better school)

I am not sure if they are allowed to if they have eligibility left. At least that is why we were told this year why some of those guys did not participate.

Last year was unique.

[94GRAD]

I'd be surprised if Nunge comes back. He's 23 and already has a degree.Seems like he's going to move on. I am so unexcited about next year and I have never felt that way about Xavier basketball since I was a kid in the 70's

Have you not listened to any stories about him wanting to play with his brother who will be a walk-on next year?

[SemajParlor]

Isn't UConn's best player this year a transfer?

2 out of their top 3 best players are transfers. Not sure what that post meant

[Masterofreality]

Regardless of who's leading them, it's hard to see this team getting to the tournament after losing our most capable three-point shooter and one of our only playmakers (love him or hate him).

Returning players (in order of most likely to contribute)

Nunge
Jones
Freemantle
Odom
Kunkel
Edwards
Hunter
Stanley
Miles
Tandy (?)

Incoming:
Ward
Craft
Claude

You left out Elijah Tucker.

Somebody gotta go

[markchal]

Well, sounds like Freemantle may be a start, and I'd be shocked if we didn't have a few more predictable losses

[Masterofreality]

Well, sounds like Freemantle may be a start, and I'd be shocked if we didn't have a few more predictable losses

It would actually be hilarious if one of Steele’s Pets leaves.
Says an awful lot.

[xukeith]

What does CBS pay each time a tourney team advanced?
Do the 6 BE teams dancing share the dollars with non dancing schools?

[D-West & PO-Z]

Well, sounds like Freemantle may be a start, and I'd be shocked if we didn't have a few more predictable losses


It would actually be hilarious if one of Steele’s Pets leaves.
Says an awful lot.

Maybe a mass exodus is the kick in the pants Christopher needs to get rid of Steele?

[UCGRAD4X]

Regardless of who's leading them, it's hard to see this team getting to the tournament after losing our most capable three-point shooter and one of our only playmakers (love him or hate him).

Returning players (in order of most likely to contribute)

Nunge
Jones
Freemantle
Odom
Kunkel
Edwards
Hunter
Stanley
Miles
Tandy (?)

Incoming:
Ward
Craft
Claude

This team will have a strong frontcourt but outside of that, I'm not sure what all we will do well. Our defense takes a hit, and for a program (under Steele) historically near the bottom third in the country in outside shooting, we will rely heavily on Kunkel (and Tandy?) and Nunge for shooting. Not sure that Edwards/Stanley see any more time than they did this year unless Hunter moves to the 3, where we have Jones and our highest incoming recruit.

Biggest need would have to be a transfer guard who can shoot and play D, in the Johnson mold I guess?

Not feeling great about that group winning many games

Gotta wonder now how this is going to look in the coming days, weeks, months. Miller or TBD.

[muethibp]

Are there non-conference games we know of at this point?

[Xuperman]

Very impressive rankings for Steele's two Frosh from this site.

https://cbbreview.com/2022/07/19/top-10-incoming-freshmen-in-big-east/

If either one of these guys can get some early traction, the season will go very well.

Can't believe we'll have to deal with another UConn behemoth for the next few years.

[xu82]

Yeah, it wasn’t recruiting that sent Travis up the road. He was and I’m sure still is a very good recruiter. It’s the stuff that comes after that he struggled with. VERY happy to have these young men coming in! Now let’s see who Miller can add to the mix in coming seasons and what he does to develop them. Recruiting is just the beginning.

[Xavier]

Wouldn’t surprise me one bit to see Steele do well there. Hope he does, great recruiter and that alone will carry you more in the MAC than the Big East.


Damn it feels good to have Sean back

[D-West & PO-Z]

Have heard Ryan Anderson will be a big part of installing/teaching the offense we will be running.

[xukeith]

Have heard Ryan Anderson will be a big part of installing/teaching the offense we will be running.

That is good. Maybe he adds some Arizona/Gonzaga firepower and sets.

[Xuperman]

Yeah, it wasn’t recruiting that sent Travis up the road. He was and I’m sure still is a very good recruiter. It’s the stuff that comes after that he struggled with. VERY happy to have these young men coming in! Now let’s see who Miller can add to the mix in coming seasons and what he does to develop them. Recruiting is just the beginning.

I have a serious concern for the 2023-24 season, UNLESS Edwards and Miles can make a huge leap. Anything Tucker can give is icing.

What to we really have if CoJo is not rostered as a Senior? Maybe a surprisingly revitalized KyKy and hopefully at least 1 super Frosh? I fear that Coach Miller will be forced to gamble on the unpredictable Portal Table.

[xukeith]

I have a serious concern for the 2023-24 season, UNLESS Edwards and Miles can make a huge leap. Anything Tucker can give is icing.

What to we really have if CoJo is not rostered as a Senior? Maybe a surprisingly revitalized KyKy and hopefully at least 1 super Frosh? I fear that Coach Miller will be forced to gamble on the unpredictable Portal Table.

I think we X fans want Edwards to get a ton of post minutes off the bench. Not sure how many minutes he can take away from Nunge and Freemantle. Here's hoping Edwards can carve out 12-18 minute bench role and then start in 2023-24 season.

[whopper]

i am glad you posted as i am confused. Kyky, Miles, Zach (and Bishop) were heavily promoted as the "arrival" and all would be seniors this year but are supposed to get an extra year. Does this mean Kyky, Miiles and Zach(?) all have 2 more years? That would make sense but I am not sure. Thanks

[Xuperman]

The Covid waiver really does confuse things. Miles was redshirted, so he is for sure eligible for 2 more years regardless. I think Tandy could argue an injury waiver also. Is it possible Freemantle can play 2023-24? Anyone that has a good grip on this craziness, please elaborate.

[JTG]

The Covid waiver really does confuse things. Miles was redshirted, so he is for sure eligible for 2 more years regardless. I think Tandy could argue an injury waiver also. Is it possible Freemantle can play 2022-23? Anyone that has a good grip on this craziness, please elaborate.

22-23 is THIS season

[Xuperman]

22-23 is THIS season

Obviously I goofed.

Is Free eligible for 23-24?

[XUGRAD80]

Obviously I goofed.

Is Free eligible for 23-24?

Yes, Free, Nunge, Hunter, and Tandy are all considered juniors, eligibility wise. Kunkle and Baum are seniors.

[muskiefan82]

Imagine what Martelli would have said if this extra year had happened when Burrell was here....LOL

[paulxu]

Kyky has been here at least 5 years already.

[bjf123]

Imagine what Martelli would have said if this extra year had happened when Burrell was here....LOL

Loved him saying how he wanted to make sure Burrell really was graduating and leaving!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[paulxu]

“Is there anybody here from the Xavier administration? Do you know when graduation is? That goddamn Burrell, every year, every goddam game makes a shot against us. He was averaging 7.5 points coming into the game in seven league games – or eight games. Doesn’t look like the same player, playing great defense. Dagger. I want to be here to make sure that sonofabitch gets out of here to be honest with you.”

[whopper]

Nunge is a junior? Hard to believe but hope so.

[GoMuskies]

Nunge is a junior? Hard to believe but hope so.

The Covid year. It's kind of a disaster for anyone with a kid who's a senior in high school trying to secure a scholarship.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Nunge is a junior? Hard to believe but hope so.

My understanding is Nunge is a senior and is out of eligibility after this coming year.

[xavierj]

My understanding is Nunge is a senior and is out of eligibility after this coming year.

He has two years but would be surprised if he uses. Lost two years due to injuries and a Covid year.

[IM4X]

I think we X fans want Edwards to get a ton of post minutes off the bench. Not sure how many minutes he can take away from Nunge and Freemantle. Here's hoping Edwards can carve out 12-18 minute bench role and then start in 2023-24 season.

Here’s hoping he’s able to show some more power and athleticism inside. I would love to see him go up strong in the paint more frequently against defenders and grab a few more rebounds and I would love to see him get above the rim and throw it down every once in a while too. Play a little more physical. A little less finesse.

Miles also needs to become much more physical in the paint and go up stronger during games. He gets the ball stripped away while trying to score far too often. Here’s hoping Miller is much better at teaching fearlessness and toughness than his predecessor (which sounds funny since Miller was also the head coach at X before Steele).

[paulxu]

Sleeper team:

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/34296910#PhilKnightLegacy

[muskiefan82]

Sleeper team:

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/34296910#PhilKnightLegacy

Sleeper team is the new Sneaking up on people

[UCGRAD4X]

Sleeper team is the new Sneaking up on people


now that those bastards at ESPN have outed us - we may lose that all important edge :mad:

[bobbiemcgee]

BE-Big 12 Battle extended two years.

https://goxavier.com/news/2022/8/1/mens-basketball-big-east-big-12-battle-extended-two-years.aspx

[paulxu]

That will take us to the next Fox contract period.

[Xuperman]

BE-Big 12 Battle extended two years.

https://goxavier.com/news/2022/8/1/mens-basketball-big-east-big-12-battle-extended-two-years.aspx

I wonder if the Shootout could be considered in this agreement. Wouldn't that open a slot for an additional quality Non Con opponent?

[94GRAD]

I wonder if the Shootout could be considered in this agreement. Wouldn't that open a slot for an additional quality Non Con opponent?

So you want to lose the guaranteed ability to play a quality non-con Big 12 team for the chance to play a quality non-con opponent?

[Xuperman]

So you want to lose the guaranteed ability to play a quality non-con Big 12 team for the chance to play a quality non-con opponent?

IDK, that's why I posed the question. Obviously everything would hinge on the ability to fill that slot with a top 40ish opponent.

A definite YES if we happen to draw UCF or another B12 bottom feeder in either year.

[noteggs]

Hopefully this will help his defense! Regardless, nice to see Kyky putting in the work.

https://twitter.com/xaviermbb/status/1560323569229471747?s=10&t=8jpYgYRPgsfKuhiNEaFE-A

[XUBison]

Hopefully this will help his defense! Regardless, nice to see Kyky putting in the work.

https://twitter.com/xaviermbb/status/1560323569229471747?s=10&t=8jpYgYRPgsfKuhiNEaFE-A

I’m not clear on his injury, but is it possible it was the problem each of the past two seasons? I’m not expecting it per se, but wouldn’t it be awesome to see him blow up this year?

[nuts4xu]

wouldn’t it be awesome to see him blow up this year?

Affirmative. It would be very awesome.

[Xville]

I’m not clear on his injury, but is it possible it was the problem each of the past two seasons? I’m not expecting it per se, but wouldn’t it be awesome to see him blow up this year?

I think the problem with him was like most of the problems of the last four years, and we all know what that problem was.

[bobbiemcgee]

https://247sports.com/LongFormArticle/Big-East-basketball-All-Conference-projections-for-2022-23-season-191385137/

[noteggs]

Interesting 3 of the 5 are centers. Yea they have Sanogo listed as a forward, but never seen him play a different position besides the 5.

[XUBison]

I think the problem with him was like most of the problems of the last four years, and we all know what that problem was.

Yes, good point. But while I am certain Sean will get the max from the roster, I’m not penciling Kyky in the starting lineup just yet. Didn’t he have a stress fracture? It seems to me those can linger for a long time without detection, but what do I know? Too bad the aluminum factor makes this such a mystery, but we’ll find out soon enough.

[bobbiemcgee]

The Xavier MBB site sez Kyky lost 20 lbs in summer workouts. Down to 9% body fat.

[Xville]

The Xavier MBB site sez Kyky lost 20 lbs in summer workouts. Down to 9% body fat.

One of my biggest gripes about the previous regime was that even as juniors and seniors, the guys looked like d2 freshmen. The only one who looked remotely different was kunkel and he still looked like most be players could kick his ass. Glad to see that kind of nonsense might be over with miller at the helm.

[xukeith]

Will the new basketball and weight room X is building now be completed before November? I forgot what the timeline was. People on twitter say it will be unbelievable, tops in country(maybe top 10) .

[paulxu]

XU MBB twitter says January 23.

[xavierj]

Yes, good point. But while I am certain Sean will get the max from the roster, I’m not penciling Kyky in the starting lineup just yet. Didn’t he have a stress fracture? It seems to me those can linger for a long time without detection, but what do I know? Too bad the aluminum factor makes this such a mystery, but we’ll find out soon enough.

Kyky should be interesting. Has a lot of talent and can score. Made all big east freshman for a reason and stuck around for a reason. Hope it works out for him but either way sounds like he will have a Xavier degree by the end of this year. As for the foot he had surgery so he wouldn’t continue to have the stress fracture issue. Usually after those surgery’s you are good to go. Zach also had the same surgery before last season for the same reason.

[paulxu]

The Miller Effect:

https://goxavier.com/news/2022/10/14/mens-basketball-xavier-announces-indiana-game-as-a-sellout-in-advance-of-upcoming-single-game-ticket-availability.aspx

[xukeith]

BE Media Day. Stay tuned.

https://www.bigeast.com/news/2022/10/17/mens-basketball-big-east-media-day-returns-to-madison-square-garden-on-tuesday.aspx

[bleedXblue]

The Miller Effect:

https://goxavier.com/news/2022/10/14/mens-basketball-xavier-announces-indiana-game-as-a-sellout-in-advance-of-upcoming-single-game-ticket-availability.aspx

And there were seasoned fans worried about the loss of Travis and what that would do to the program, recruiting, rebuilding etc.

To the point that they were advocating for him to stay the course and for us to have faith in the process

Man don't they look foolish right now

[bleedXblue]

Kyky should be interesting. Has a lot of talent and can score. Made all big east freshman for a reason and stuck around for a reason. Hope it works out for him but either way sounds like he will have a Xavier degree by the end of this year. As for the foot he had surgery so he wouldn’t continue to have the stress fracture issue. Usually after those surgery’s you are good to go. Zach also had the same surgery before last season for the same reason.

KyKy simply needs to grind it out and stay the course. He will get his shot, he just has to want it and seize it when it comes

[GoMuskies]

And there were seasoned fans worried about the loss of Travis and what that would do to the program, recruiting, rebuilding etc.

To the point that they were advocating for him to stay the course and for us to have faith in the process

Man don't they look foolish right now

I think those folks were silly, and I was 100% for firing Steele (hiring Miller was just the cherry on top), but let's see some actual basketball before spiking the football.

[drudy23]

I think those folks were silly, and I was 100% for firing Steele (hiring Miller was just the cherry on top), but let's see some actual basketball before spiking the football.

Agree - BUT....there is a renewed sense of identity for this program. We've been wavering in the wind for 5 years. Sean's mission is to bring back the intensity and toughness of the brand of basketball we all fell in love with. I know it won't be immediate success, but in my mind, he's already set the tone. I can't wait for the season to start.

If we really end up in the top 4th of the league this year, we will be well on our way. Expectations for me don't change - make the tournament is bare minimum.

[bleedXblue]

I think those folks were silly, and I was 100% for firing Steele (hiring Miller was just the cherry on top), but let's see some actual basketball before spiking the football.

No doubt.

Not proclaiming that there wont be some bumps along the way. Simply saying that there were some predicting moving on from Steele was going to set us back multiple years as a program.

[IM4X]

Agree - BUT....there is a renewed sense of identity for this program. We've been wavering in the wind for 5 years. Sean's mission is to bring back the intensity and toughness of the brand of basketball we all fell in love with. I know it won't be immediate success, but in my mind, he's already set the tone. I can't wait for the season to start.

If we really end up in the top 4th of the league this year, we will be well on our way. Expectations for me don't change - make the tournament is bare minimum.

Gotta feel good that Sean said he followed X during this past season he wasn’t coaching. He saw the potential of the group of returning players and the glaring problems with their defense. I think that’s a big part of the “toughness” he is talking about in the BE media day interview. No question that there’s a need for more discipline and tenacity, as well - at least with players not named Jones or Nunge.

I’m pretty sure we’re all hoping Sean has been able to help some of the players with their decision-making skills too.

[IM4X]

No doubt.

Not proclaiming that there wont be some bumps along the way. Simply saying that there were some predicting moving on from Steele was going to set us back multiple years as a program.

I do have to admit, while I was beyond ready to move on from Steele, some of the coaches mentioned in the conversation for replacing him (wether they were serious candidates or not) had me a little nervous we might see a possible continued downward spiral in the program. It wasn’t until we heard Sean was a real candidate and we had a good chance of getting him that I went from feeling unsettled to excited.

It was imperative that X move on from Steele. Let’s get that out of the way. It was clear he didn’t have what it takes to get the team to the next level - the reason he was hired. Imagine what might have happened if X had hired some slightly above average coach who had no real understanding of the Xavier way. We could have had a coach who couldn’t recruit as well as Steele, trying to take less talented players further. No thanks.

So happy we got Sean back. Someone who can recruit well, coach well… and someone who understands “the X way” as well as just about anyone.

[whopper]

We have a very good team but if you read other teams equivalent web sites they all have very good teams. Villanova with Moore, Dizon , Danels , and the new guy Whitmore are going to be good. Creighton without Kalkenbrenner almost knocked off Kansas and have a new guy Scherman as well as Kaluma, Alenander, Nemhard. Providence and St Johns are always mentally tough, Seton Hall..(you get the idea). Every game will be winnable or losable (you can remember a few yrs ago when St John, Creighton, Butler would come to Cintas and it would be a guaranteed. We may lost a game that will tear your hear out(I thought Depaul at home was the crusher last year) but then we have to get it back and i think Miller will be the guy who can do that. I almost dont like the idea that 2 guys are all Biig East..bulliten board materal. Zach was all BE pre season LAST year and i hope this will light a fire him and would love to see him as an almost Hansborough type

[bleedXblue]

the Hansborough references are killing me

[whopper]

the Hansborough references are killing me

what I am saying is that Zach was a pre season all BE last year based on soph stats of 16 p and 9 reb.. Hansborough averaged 19 and 8 his soph year and i am saying the Big East is equivalent to ACC. Last year was an aberration for Zach (or maybe his soph year was the aberration in which case this is totally invalid) so i am discounting it (injuries and attitude). If he can play 26 min and averaged 14 and 6 (it is a different game than 2008 when starters played 33+ mini a game). He needs to channel the energy that he showed his freshman year when he was reckless he can be a poor man's hansborough and we would settle for that. The game is different now, much more 3s and more drawing of offensive fouls and Hansborugh types dont put up big numbers now. I am optimistic and nobody was more dissapointed with Zach play than i was (maybe Zach)..He did not work hard enough to get position and dribbled too much and short armed too many jump hooks and gave up position on defense. I am hoping Miller can fix these problems. By the way Hansborough is playing in China now at age 36

[xu82]

Hansborough playing professionally at 36 is impressive. I hope he’s made great money in that time.

[XUBison]

the Hansborough references are killing me

Oh, I see it. This time last year we all expected Free to maintain or improve upon an already productive stat line. There’s a lot of similarity in style. You may not recognize the comparison to a poor man’s Hansborough, but I think that speaks more to the true degree of Free’s downfall last season.

[Masterofreality]

I had a little Twitter exchange with Adam Baum last night as he was sitting in a NY airport waiting to come home.
I asked him if Jerome Hunter had a role on this team.
Adam answered Yes, as a defender & Rebounder.
Then I asked “What about as a 3 point shooter”.
Adam answered: “Nah. Jerome will not be shooting any 3’s in this system. He is a great passer though- and is the best passer to the Post on the floor.”
Good to hear. Sean’s not gonna tolerate fuckery.

[Xville]

I had a little Twitter exchange with Adam Baum last night as he was sitting in a NY airport waiting to come home.
I asked him if Jerome Hunter had a role on this team.
Adam answered Yes, as a defender & Rebounder.
Then I asked “What about as a 3 point shooter”.
Adam answered: “Nah. Jerome will not be shooting any 3’s in this system. He is a great passer though- and is the best passer to the Post on the floor.”
Good to hear. Sean’s not gonna tolerate fuckery.

So, for the things that we all recognized he could bring to the table, but the one getting paid millions of dollars couldn't. Amazing.

[IM4X]

I had a little Twitter exchange with Adam Baum last night as he was sitting in a NY airport waiting to come home.
I asked him if Jerome Hunter had a role on this team.
Adam answered Yes, as a defender & Rebounder.
Then I asked “What about as a 3 point shooter”.
Adam answered: “Nah. Jerome will not be shooting any 3’s in this system. He is a great passer though- and is the best passer to the Post on the floor.”
Good to hear. Sean’s not gonna tolerate fuckery.

Nice to have a coach again not afraid to let players know what things make them a tremendous asset to the team and what things make them a serious liability.

[drudy23]

As each day passes, I am more and more convinced Steele wanted to be buds with the players more than he wanted to make them and the team better.

Alot of coaches know that if you lose the players, you lose the job - but that's more at the professional level. He basically let them do whatever they wanted, and I'm sure the players loved it. But they didn't become better basketball players.

[Masterofreality]

As each day passes, I am more and more convinced Steele wanted to be buds with the players more than he wanted to make them and the team better.

Alot of coaches know that if you lose the players, you lose the job - but that's more at the professional level. He basically let them do whatever they wanted, and I'm sure the players loved it. But they didn't become better basketball players.

Not getting back into a deep Steele discussion, but there was an issue between Steele & the players because he had different levels of tolerance for different guys, and most of the guys didn’t like it. They hated how Ben Stanley & KyKy were treated vs *Others. (No names please)

[whopper]

the weird thing is that Kunkel and Stanley got cleared to play earlier that originally thought. If Stanley sat out year could have avoided injury and been able to contribute this year. As much as I (and we) love Kunk, he was the death of Kyky and we STILL did not make NCAA. Sometimes you shoud not wish for something because you might get it. I hope Stanley tears it up..if he did not get hurt i beliieve he would have cut into Carter's time and maybe we could have snuck in with the extra offense (Carter had a great game against St Johns in 2021, then did nothing after it)

[drudy23]

Kunk is a great guy to come off the bench. I really hope Sean has him cut back on the quick trigger and contested 3 pointers he loves to shoot the 2nd the ball gets in his hands. He's streaky, but tbh, the talent being recruited should have him looking over his shoulder. Not sure he starts on any other top half Big East teams.

I also agree that his arrival was the death of KyKy. Would still love to see the kid break out because he has elite first-step and upward explosiveness. And with that quickness, I could also see him being one of the best on-the-ball defenders in the league if he wanted to. I just want to see him dunk a couple times - I don't think he's gotten an official dunk yet.

[Xavier]

I don’t think kyky will see much time at all. I would say the one way he could is by being a great defender….though I swear I saw somewhere that Sean said he changed his philosophy a little in that a great offense will beat a great defense at this level. I wouldn’t be surprised to see both kyky and Kunkel become deeper bench players and less time as the season goes on.

I’m so glad Steele is gone. But I think the players being upset he treated players differently says more about them then it does Steele. I’d bet 95% of coaches do the same. Some guys have longer leashes than others. Should Crawford have a longer leash to jack up crazy shots then most the guys on the team? Yup

[xavierj]

So, for the things that we all recognized he could bring to the table, but the one getting paid millions of dollars couldn't. Amazing.

Not defending Steele as he was clueless, but Hunter was a 34% three point shooter, on about three three’s attempted per game at Indiana the year before he arrived at Xavier. Last year he attempted just under 2 per game and shot 21%. I chalk that up to the system. Hunter won’t be shooting a ton of threes but he also won’t be told never to take them. One thing I have noticed with Hunter is he appears in great shape and much bigger and stronger looking than last year. He is athletic and was raked highly coming out of high school for a reason. I have a feeling many fans will be pleasantly surprised by Jerome this year.

[XUGRAD80]

I’m so glad Steele is gone. But I think the players being upset he treated players differently says more about them then it does Steele. I’d bet 95% of coaches do the same. Some guys have longer leashes than others. Should Crawford have a longer leash to jack up crazy shots then most the guys on the team? Yup

There’s a difference between being creative within an offensive structure and just jacking up crazy shots because you think you can make them…especially when you miss them over and over and over again. X has had players that were just big time SCORERS, and they have had players that were great SHOOTERS (when open). I don’t see any of the current players being especially great at either scoring or shooting, but almost all of them are either adequate or pretty darn good at at least one of those things. It’s never good for a manager (business or sports) to have different standards for different players. Players (or employees) need to understand their role and what is expected of them, within the team or business structure. They have to be given the freedom and support they need to perform their role. But they also need to be stopped from doing things that aren’t expected of them, or needed from them. The acceptable levels of behavior and performance need to be the same for everyone. It’s not that you have the same expectations for each player, but you can’t say to one player that it’s ok if you make X number of mistakes, bad passes, poor shots attempted, etc. and say to another player that if you take one bad shot you’re on the bench for the rest of the game or beyond. You can’t say to one employee that it’s ok if you’re a few minutes late everyday, and then write up another employee for the same thing. IF Steele was guilty of playing favorites, it’s no wonder the team wasn’t as successful as they could have been. It’s no wonder the team lacked grit and discipline down the stretch. Doing the right thing can’t be a sometime thing, it’s got to be an all the time thing.

[IM4X]

Not defending Steele as he was clueless, but Hunter was a 34% three point shooter, on about three three’s attempted per game at Indiana the year before he arrived at Xavier. Last year he attempted just under 2 per game and shot 21%. I chalk that up to the system. Hunter won’t be shooting a ton of threes but he also won’t be told never to take them. One thing I have noticed with Hunter is he appears in great shape and much bigger and stronger looking than last year. He is athletic and was raked highly coming out of high school for a reason. I have a feeling many fans will be pleasantly surprised by Jerome this year.

I hope you’re right. I’d love to be pleasantly surprised.

I think it’s pretty simple. Either Hunter steps on the floor and is a net positive for the team or he’s a net negative. If he defends well and scores the easy buckets when the opportunities are presented, then he deserves more playing time. If he starts missing easy layups and forcing too many threes this year, then he is hurting the team and deserves less playing time. Personally, I’d like Jerome to use some of that athleticism of his to simply dunk more often. It’s a strength of his. Trouble making open bunnies? Just throw it down young man.

[xudash]

There’s a difference between being creative within an offensive structure and just jacking up crazy shots because you think you can make them…especially when you miss them over and over and over again. X has had players that were just big time SCORERS, and they have had players that were great SHOOTERS (when open). I don’t see any of the current players being especially great at either scoring or shooting, but almost all of them are either adequate or pretty darn good at at least one of those things. It’s never good for a manager (business or sports) to have different standards for different players. Players (or employees) need to understand their role and what is expected of them, within the team or business structure. They have to be given the freedom and support they need to perform their role. But they also need to be stopped from doing things that aren’t expected of them, or needed from them. The acceptable levels of behavior and performance need to be the same for everyone. It’s not that you have the same expectations for each player, but you can’t say to one player that it’s ok if you make X number of mistakes, bad passes, poor shots attempted, etc. and say to another player that if you take one bad shot you’re on the bench for the rest of the game or beyond. You can’t say to one employee that it’s ok if you’re a few minutes late everyday, and then write up another employee for the same thing. IF Steele was guilty of playing favorites, it’s no wonder the team wasn’t as successful as they could have been. It’s no wonder the team lacked grit and discipline down the stretch. Doing the right thing can’t be a sometime thing, it’s got to be an all the time thing.

Good points.

We obviously don't have to look any further than the difference between Xavier v Cleveland State and Xavier v Florida, Vandy, SBU and A&M. It was as if some crazy fever had finally popped. How that team responded after Travis was shown the door was beyond telling.

[UCGRAD4X]

I hope you’re right. I’d love to be pleasantly surprised.

I think it’s pretty simple. Either Hunter steps on the floor and is a net positive for the team or he’s a net negative. If he defends well and scores the easy buckets when the opportunities are presented, then he deserves more playing time. If he starts missing easy layups and forcing too many threes this year, then he is hurting the team and deserves less playing time. Personally, I’d like Jerome to use some of that athleticism of his to simply dunk more often. It’s a strength of his. Trouble making open bunnies? Just throw it down young man.

Quite a concept. Play the players more who play better and play the players less who play worser.

Should tell Travis.

[Masterofreality]

There’s a difference between being creative within an offensive structure and just jacking up crazy shots because you think you can make them…especially when you miss them over and over and over again. X has had players that were just big time SCORERS, and they have had players that were great SHOOTERS (when open). I don’t see any of the current players being especially great at either scoring or shooting, but almost all of them are either adequate or pretty darn good at at least one of those things. It’s never good for a manager (business or sports) to have different standards for different players. Players (or employees) need to understand their role and what is expected of them, within the team or business structure. They have to be given the freedom and support they need to perform their role. But they also need to be stopped from doing things that aren’t expected of them, or needed from them. The acceptable levels of behavior and performance need to be the same for everyone. It’s not that you have the same expectations for each player, but you can’t say to one player that it’s ok if you make X number of mistakes, bad passes, poor shots attempted, etc. and say to another player that if you take one bad shot you’re on the bench for the rest of the game or beyond. You can’t say to one employee that it’s ok if you’re a few minutes late everyday, and then write up another employee for the same thing. IF Steele was guilty of playing favorites, it’s no wonder the team wasn’t as successful as they could have been. It’s no wonder the team lacked grit and discipline down the stretch. Doing the right thing can’t be a sometime thing, it’s got to be an all the time thing.

Great post. And just substitute Jason Carter for Jerome Hunter as players who have not been held accountable….until now.

[XU_Lou]

Not liking this at all:

"Sources: The Division 1 Transformation Committee has had dialogue to expand the NCAA Tournament in all sports to include 25% of the programs who are eligible.

This would mean the Men's Basketball NCAA Tournament would expand by approximately 20 teams."

https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/1583128946169638913

[MHettel]

I hope you’re right. I’d love to be pleasantly surprised.

I think it’s pretty simple. Either Hunter steps on the floor and is a net positive for the team or he’s a net negative. If he defends well and scores the easy buckets when the opportunities are presented, then he deserves more playing time. If he starts missing easy layups and forcing too many threes this year, then he is hurting the team and deserves less playing time. Personally, I’d like Jerome to use some of that athleticism of his to simply dunk more often. It’s a strength of his. Trouble making open bunnies? Just throw it down young man.

Using you logic, the entire performance of the team would be "neutral." Some guys will be net positives, and they will necessarily have to be offset by guys that are net negatives. If all the guys are net positives, then basically they are all neutral.

Point being, there MUST be players that are net negatives on all teams. Hunter was one last year and could be one again this year....

[MHettel]

Not liking this at all:

"Sources: The Division 1 Transformation Committee has had dialogue to expand the NCAA Tournament in all sports to include 25% of the programs who are eligible.

This would mean the Men's Basketball NCAA Tournament would expand by approximately 20 teams."

https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/1583128946169638913

Welcome to first round home games and bye's for the top teams.

OR, concoct some crap where the conference tournament are folded into the actually NCAA and the entire tournament. Have a giant "losers bracket" that allows the likely at large teams that lost their conference tourney to win their way back into the field. Once you get down to 64 teams, it's single eliminations. Actually, I kind of like that idea!

[IM4X]

Quite a concept. Play the players more who play better and play the players less who play worser.

Should tell Travis.

Nah… I wouldn’t dare mess with his “Steele proof” approach of letting every player continue to shoot no matter their shooting
percentage. If he keeps them in the game, it’s just a matter of time before they become great decision-making sharp shooters.

[drudy23]

Not liking this at all:

"Sources: The Division 1 Transformation Committee has had dialogue to expand the NCAA Tournament in all sports to include 25% of the programs who are eligible.

This would mean the Men's Basketball NCAA Tournament would expand by approximately 20 teams."

https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/1583128946169638913

Why do they always feel the need to mess with the perfect sporting event?

[XUGRAD80]

Not liking this at all:

"Sources: The Division 1 Transformation Committee has had dialogue to expand the NCAA Tournament in all sports to include 25% of the programs who are eligible.

This would mean the Men's Basketball NCAA Tournament would expand by approximately 20 teams."

https://twitter.com/JonRothstein/status/1583128946169638913

Would guess that would mean an additional weekend of games? Or do they ask teams to play every 2 days, so that they would possibly play 3 games the first week?

[noteggs]

Do we dare discuss how this would effect our recent coaching change? Yikes!

Are we now going to be rewarding mediocrity?

[Xville]

Why do they always feel the need to mess with the perfect sporting event?

I’ll give you one guess :) cha Ching

[Xville]

Do we dare discuss how this would effect our recent coaching change? Yikes!

Are we now going to be rewarding mediocrity?

It happens in every professional sport, might as well do it at the college level too. Land of participation trophies

[noteggs]

It happens in every professional sport, might as well do it at the college level too. Land of participation trophies

Agree with your last sentence. My main point is if rule change happened 4 years ago, we would still be stuck with Steele. Easier to get rid of pro coach based off performance.

[drudy23]

Agree with your last sentence. My main point is if rule change happened 4 years ago, we would still be stuck with Steele. Easier to get rid of pro coach based off performance.

You're probably right.

For sh*ts and giggles, I went over to the Miami (OH) message board to see how they are accepting Steele. They absolutely love him so far, from most accounts. The basic premise is that the last 10 years have been so bad, they see Steele as a massive upgrade. Will be interesting to see how their season unfolds.

[muskiefan82]

You're probably right.

For sh*ts and giggles, I went over to the Miami (OH) message board to see how they are accepting Steele. They absolutely love him so far, from most accounts. The basic premise is that the last 10 years have been so bad, they see Steele as a massive upgrade. Will be interesting to see how their season unfolds.

Ron Harper disagrees with this. LOL

[Xavier]

I wouldn’t be surprised to see Steele have success at Miami. His calling card is really all around recruiting- and if you get the talent it can hide a lot of other coaching deficiencies in the MAC.

As for expanding- obviously that would be ridiculous. I could maybe see the last X amount of teams that would’ve been invited essentially doing a play in game on home courts then doing the real tournament. Not preferred but seems unfortunately inevitable

[X-band '01]

I have a hard time seeing Miami finishing any higher than 6th in the MAC if everything goes right. Not finishing above Akron, Toledo, Kent, Ohio or Buffalo.

[Xavier]

I’m not guaranteeing success and certainly not immediately, but I wouldn’t be surprised if in 3-4 years they are a top 3 team in the MAC

[paulxu]

I'm ready for some basketball !

[noteggs]

I follow this guy on Twitter because he gives some interesting picks around March madness. In his article, he has X finishing 3rd. Seems to have a good handle on the coaching situation.

Where he goes off the rails is predicting the current roster makeup. Does he honestly see a preseason first team pick coming off the bench? Oh well it’s almost tip off time.

http://makingthemadness.com/big-east-preview/

[xukeith]

I follow this guy on Twitter because he gives some interesting picks around March madness. In his article, he has X finishing 3rd. Seems to have a good handle on the coaching situation.

Where he goes off the rails is predicting the current roster makeup. Does he honestly see a preseason first team pick coming off the bench? Oh well it’s almost tip off time.

http://makingthemadness.com/big-east-preview/

He likes risks. He has Tandy and Hunter starting. Kunkel off bench.

[Xville]

I do wonder what starting lineups will be. I think the best lineup (without seeing the freshmen in a game yet) would be:

Boum
Jones
Hunter
Free
Nunge

This is assuming Hunter plays the role he should be, rather than standing around the 3 point line. This is probably wishful thinking on my part because I'm openly rooting for the kid, but I think Tandy plays a significant role on this team. He's too damn gifted, and I think with proper coaching will be a real weapon.

[X-man]

I do wonder what starting lineups will be. I think the best lineup (without seeing the freshmen in a game yet) would be:

Boum
Jones
Hunter
Free
Nunge

This is assuming Hunter plays the role he should be, rather than standing around the 3 point line. This is probably wishful thinking on my part because I'm openly rooting for the kid, but I think Tandy plays a significant role on this team. He's too damn gifted, and I think with proper coaching will be a real weapon.
Replace Hunter with Kunkel, and I'd agree with you. No way that Hunter starts. In fact, I will be surprised if he sees much PT off the bench.

[SC in DC]

Said it before and I'll say it again--hope Hunter has a great season--but if he is starting or playing major minutes, this team isn't going where we want it to go.

[drudy23]

I do wonder what starting lineups will be. I think the best lineup (without seeing the freshmen in a game yet) would be:

Boum
Jones
Hunter
Free
Nunge

This is assuming Hunter plays the role he should be, rather than standing around the 3 point line. This is probably wishful thinking on my part because I'm openly rooting for the kid, but I think Tandy plays a significant role on this team. He's too damn gifted, and I think with proper coaching will be a real weapon.

I don't see a point guard in this lineup. I think both Hunter and Kunkel come off the bench, and Claude is the PG. I dearly want to see KyKy get a legit shot, as I think his upside is higher than Kunkel, especially if we have more offensive weapons around him.

Boum can probably play the point, but he's more of a scorer. I just can't see Kunkel and Hunter as anything more than role players. I'd also be pleasantly surprised to see Kraft get some of those guard minutes if he can shoot like people say he can.

Boum is going to add an element this team hasn't seen in 5 years - a guard that can penetrate, finish, draw fouls, and kick for OPEN shots in rhythm. That's going to lend its hand to guys that can actually shoot the ball. And I think at the end of the day, KyKy and Kraft are just better shooters than Kunkel.

[xu82]

Said it before and I'll say it again--hope Hunter has a great season--but if he is starting or playing major minutes, this team isn't going where we want it to go.

I can see him serving as a role player, being a “glue guy” doing little things right, including better shot selection (a/k/a/ stick to dunks and bunnies). I can hope for more, but certainly not expecting it.

[drudy23]

I don't think we have to worry about Hunter. If he comes in and starts jacking up stupid 3s, there's zero chance Sean will continue to put him out there.

[Xville]

Said it before and I'll say it again--hope Hunter has a great season--but if he is starting or playing major minutes, this team isn't going where we want it to go.

I’d say the same about kunkel.

[X Factor]

I’d say the same about kunkel.

Not even close to the same.

[drudy23]

I'm in the camp that Kunkel shouldn't be getting starter minutes. He's simply not a Big East guard - can he stem the tide if one of our Big East guards gets in foul trouble or needs a breather? Yes - and it's great to have guys come off the bench that can avoid a major dive in productivity - but he's definitely a role player on this team.

And that's very important - not trying to diminish him, but he can be great in that role, he's just not a major minutes guy.

[noteggs]

I’d say the same about kunkel.

Understand. Willing to give Kunkel more PT until freshman get more accumulated. Think rotation will evolve throughout the season unlike last few seasons. Kinda like naji’s first year.

[drudy23]

I think there's a segment of our fanbase that needs to re-train their brains after what we've seen the last 4 years. That wasn't good or normal - and anything that resembles that is probably not going to be good. So I hope it all gets blown up and our team actually is a team again.

[Xville]

I'm in the camp that Kunkel shouldn't be getting starter minutes. He's simply not a Big East guard - can he stem the tide if one of our Big East guards gets in foul trouble or needs a breather? Yes - and it's great to have guys come off the bench that can avoid a major dive in productivity - but he's definitely a role player on this team.

And that's very important - not trying to diminish him, but he can be great in that role, he's just not a major minutes guy.

Yep +1

[paulxu]

ESPN and the deuce are carrying the games in Portland.
If we could get by Florida, we'd probably get Duke. I'd love a little revenge.

[X-man]

Understand. Willing to give Kunkel more PT until freshman get more accumulated. Think rotation will evolve throughout the season unlike last few seasons. Kinda like naji’s first year.

I'm with you on this. I'm very optimistic about Claude as our starting PG, once he gets a few games under his belt. He was very impressive at the Madness last Friday.

[xukeith]

Who can consistently be a perimeter threat on this X team? Boum transferred here to hopefully make defenses pay.
I love Colby Jones but I doubt he will start launching and making 4 threes a game.
Kam Craft is supposed to be an excellent shooter, so he can be a threat.
Kunkel can shoot but not consistently.
Tandy may play 3-5 minutes and hit a three.
Who am I kidding?

[Xville]

ESPN and the deuce are carrying the games in Portland.
If we could get by Florida, we'd probably get Duke. I'd love a little revenge.

That'd be nice, but Duke has the #1,2, and 4 recruit coming in. I guess it would be nice to possibly catch them early and maybe Scheyer will suck as a coach, but yikes.

[drudy23]

Who can consistently be a perimeter threat on this X team? Boum transferred here to hopefully make defenses pay.
I love Colby Jones but I doubt he will start launching and making 4 threes a game.
Kam Craft is supposed to be an excellent shooter, so he can be a threat.
Kunkel can shoot but not consistently.
Tandy may play 3-5 minutes and hit a three.
Who am I kidding?

Boum can shoot - I'd expect Colby to be improved. But no one is averaging 4 3's made per game.

Kunkel has to shoot close to 40% to get the green light as much as he's had it. Craft and KyKy can shoot, but will thye play enough to make a mark. Them playing early is a very good sign.

With Boum and Colby being able to get to the rim, it might actually make sense to have Nunge on the perimeter some. He's not our worst shooter. Free and Hunter should never shoot a 3 ever again.

We are going to need balance - don' t have to lead the league in 3PT%, but it has to be a threat.

[Xville]

The problem the last few years has been the right guys to shoot the 3s, and finding a way to get them open. We have guys on the roster that can shoot, and I trust in Miller to scheme how to get them open, and discourage the ones who can't shoot from doing so.

[xukeith]

https://www.collegesportsmadness.com/mens-basketball/top-144-previews

X at 16. Indiana at 33.

Maybe this site believes in long shots.

[Xuperman]

I’d say the same about kunkel.

Looking forward to revisiting this quote in February, possibly dig up some oldie but goodies just for shits and giggles.

There's a good possibility that AK will start, IF Coach Miller views Jones more effective in the frontcourt. Regardless, Kunk will certainly be counted on in a big way.

He has every single box checked to be an extremely effective 6th man. You know you're going to get instant passion and energy on demand.....1st team All Floor Burn. Give him 10 minutes per half to spell both guard spots. Hell, go small ball occasionally..... you're not going to lose anything with him in there because he has takes care of the basketball. Now about his "threat" as a shooter. It's real and can not be denied. If he comes in hot look out. If he clangs a couple out of the gate, simply make an in game adjustment and forcefully communicate to him to focus on intangibles and hustle.

If we can get consistent production out of 1 (Tandy, Craft, Claude) and 1 (Edwards, Miles, Tucker) the bench flexibility will be very effective.

So yeah, we definitely can get where we want to go with Adam Kunkel playing significant minutes....to think otherwise is silly. Now if something happens to Nunge, probably not.

[Xville]

Looking forward to revisiting this quote in February, possibly dig up some oldie but goodies just for shits and giggles.

There's a good possibility that AK will start, IF Coach Miller views Jones more effective in the frontcourt. Regardless, Kunk will certainly be counted on in a big way.

He has every single box checked to be an extremely effective 6th man. You know you're going to get instant passion and energy on demand.....1st team All Floor Burn. Give him 10 minutes per half to spell both guard spots. Hell, go small ball occasionally..... you're not going to lose anything with him in there because he has takes care of the basketball. Now about his "threat" as a shooter. It's real and can not be denied. If he comes in hot look out. If he clangs a couple out of the gate, simply make an in game adjustment and forcefully communicate to him to focus on intangibles and hustle.

If we can get consistent production out of 1 (Tandy, Craft, Claude) and 1 (Edwards, Miles, Tucker) the bench flexibility will be very effective.

So yeah, we definitely can get where we want to go with Adam Kunkel playing significant minutes....to think otherwise is silly. Now if something happens to Nunge, probably not.

I'll say one thing...your love for Adam Kunkel is undeniable. I believe he is best suited for 12-15 minutes a game...he will take care of the ball and I think he can bring a hustle/passion type of energy in spurts. I have seen enough of him in Big East Play to know he should not be a 25-30 minute per game contributor which he was for some god forsaken reason last year...he averaged 37% 2fg and 30% 3pg respectively in Big East play last year, and was worse the year before in limited games. I like what he can bring to the table in spurts, not as a significant contributor or starter minutes.

If in February I eat some crow, great. However, you also tried to blast me about Steele last year and we all saw how that turned out.

[drudy23]

I think most people were very surprised how Steele took to Kunkel very early. Most would agree he could be a valuable piece of the team, but Steele inserted him almost immediately into the starting line-up and playing significant minutes. This was all after it was decided he could play immediately with his transfer, and jumping ahead of several recruits that had been putting in time. I don't mind sending a kid to the front of the line if the talent warrants it, but i never thought he was good enough to step in immediately like he did on a supposed Big East contender.

[whopper]

Kunkel is outstanding with ball securty, has a nice pull up 2, hits the 3 decently (ii recall he took many 3s as clock ran out last year) rebounds better than you think and has a high basketball IQ. There is no NIT without Kunkel. He is not all Big East but needs to get 23 min a game or more. I hate to say it but he has all the "intangibles"

[IM4X]

I’ve gotta think we’re going to see that Sean is much better at setting expectations for each player and how well each player meets those expectations will dictate how much playing time they’ll each get. To that point, I could see Kunkel playing anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes in games. Is Miller seeing the Adam who forces too many quick threes off the dribble when better options are available or is he seeing the Adam who first looks to feed teammates in the paint and relies more on inside-out threes? The latter Kunkel can be a real asset and deserves more minutes.

Adam always has a fast motor on the court. That constant fast motor can be a huge advantage when their are loose balls or defenders who are a step slow. Unfortunately, it also can cause him to be a little out of sync with his shooting at times. I would love to see that he has worked to get that fast motor a bit more under control so he can make smarter decisions and take higher percentage shots.

[paulxu]

Good for this young man:

https://goxavier.com/news/2022/10/26/mens-basketball-colby-jones-named-to-the-preseason-julius-erving-award-watch-list.aspx

[noteggs]

Hope this holds true. Norlander has us at 13. Maybe a little bullish, but I’ll take.

Also, hearing a lot of good things about Des Claude.

https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-rankings-cbs-sports-top-100-and-1-best-teams-heading-into-the-2022-23-season/

[IM4X]

Good stuff.

Thanks for sharing the links you two.

[XUGRAD80]

Hope this holds true. Norlander has us at 13. Maybe a little bullish, but I’ll take.

Also, hearing a lot of good things about Des Claude.

https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-rankings-cbs-sports-top-100-and-1-best-teams-heading-into-the-2022-23-season/

It really boggles my mind how wide spread the predictions for this X team are. Everything from 4th in the conference to 1st. Everything from a top 50 to a top 15 team nationally. I’m wondering what it is that some people are seeing and others aren’t? The Miller effect? It really seems to be a crapshoot as to where this team will land. I’m certainly encouraged by rankings like the one from CBS, but we’ve seen this before haven’t we? And it didn’t turn out so good. I certainly hope that Miller will make the difference and that we won’t see a team that fades down the stretch. But the fear of that happening is going to remain in the back of mind until it doesn’t happen.

[drudy23]

It really boggles my mind how wide spread the predictions for this X team are. Everything from 4th in the conference to 1st. Everything from a top 50 to a top 15 team nationally. I’m wondering what it is that some people are seeing and others aren’t? The Miller effect? It really seems to be a crapshoot as to where this team will land. I’m certainly encouraged by rankings like the one from CBS, but we’ve seen this before haven’t we? And it didn’t turn out so good. I certainly hope that Miller will make the difference and that we won’t see a team that fades down the stretch. But the fear of that happening is going to remain in the back of mind until it doesn’t happen.

Just make the tournament.

[paulxu]

It really boggles my mind how wide spread the predictions for this X team are. Everything from 4th in the conference to 1st. Everything from a top 50 to a top 15 team nationally. I’m wondering what it is that some people are seeing and others aren’t? The Miller effect? It really seems to be a crapshoot as to where this team will land. I’m certainly encouraged by rankings like the one from CBS, but we’ve seen this before haven’t we? And it didn’t turn out so good. I certainly hope that Miller will make the difference and that we won’t see a team that fades down the stretch. But the fear of that happening is going to remain in the back of mind until it doesn’t happen.

I think it's right to be afraid. But there is some validity to the ranking as we return more starters than others, and haven't been hit with a lot of guys jumping into the portal. Here's hoping!

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Just make the tournament.

"Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp".....................Robert Browning.

Making the tournament, to me, is under-achieving. I acknowledge it is a goal which we have not attained in five years. Nevertheless, I think we have the coaching and talent to advance in the Dance.

[drudy23]

"Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp".....................Robert Browning.

Making the tournament, to me, is under-achieving. I acknowledge it is a goal which we have not attained in five years. Nevertheless, I think we have the coaching and talent to advance in the Dance.

Can't advance or make noise without making it first.

[Blue Blooded-05]

I'm with you on this. I'm very optimistic about Claude as our starting PG, once he gets a few games under his belt. He was very impressive at the Madness last Friday.

Love your optimism but please give the kid a chance to adjust.

Miller is a former Big East PG and demands excellence from his PGs. In 2009 Miller coached Tu as a true freshman on a team without another true PG. Tu gave solid minutes off the bench and showed flashes of what he would become but there was a steep learning curve and Miller rode him hard until he was broken and could be rebuilt. This was Tu-freaking Holloway against A10 competition. Claude won't be going up against Fordham and LaSalle this year.

[MADXSTER]

At Madness, Claude reminded me of Colby except more aggressive. He still looked like a freshman in regards to learning the system but seemed to be very into what the coaches were telling him. Seemed very coachable.

[Tim]

It surprises me to see so many posters skittish about our upcoming season. I think some people still don't realize just how bad Steele was, and/or how good Miller is going to be.

[UCGRAD4X]

it surprises me to see so many posters skittish about our upcoming season. I think some people still don't realize just how bad steele was, and/or how good miller is going to be.

ptsd

[XUGRAD80]

It surprises me to see so many posters skittish about our upcoming season. I think some people still don't realize just how bad Steele was, and/or how good Miller is going to be.

We have a new coach, but we have pretty much the same cast of characters. I’ve been involved in sports and coaching long enough to know that rarely does a new coach turn things completely around in just a few months. I think that Miller is an excellent college BB coach. One of the best. He has nothing to prove in my eyes. Our players on the other hand have much to prove. Especially that they can truly compete and win consistently against Big East competition. I’ve no doubt that Miller will put them in position to do so, but will the players execute what they are supposed to do? Or will they fail? I hope for the former, and fear the latter may be the case.

[Dblue]

We have a new coach, but we have pretty much the same cast of characters. I’ve been involved in sports and coaching long enough to know that rarely does a new coach turn things completely around in just a few months. I think that Miller is an excellent college BB coach. One of the best. He has nothing to prove in my eyes. Our players on the other hand have much to prove. Especially that they can truly compete and win consistently against Big East competition. I’ve no doubt that Miller will put them in position to do so, but will the players execute what they are supposed to do? Or will they fail? I hope for the former, and fear the latter may be the case.

I agree the long term record for this group is shaky. However, looking back at the NIT after Steele was let go and I'm mostly optimistic about the potential this season holds. I realize the level of competition in most of the NIT is not on par as a majority of the Big East, but these core guys as a group looked so much better in a matter of days after a coaching change.

I'm not foolish enough to think we can't have another disappointing season, but more optimistic and encouraged by the potential this group with Coach Miller has.

[IM4X]

"Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp".....................Robert Browning.

Making the tournament, to me, is under-achieving. I acknowledge it is a goal which we have not attained in five years. Nevertheless, I think we have the coaching and talent to advance in the Dance.


I agree. We have a team now (and a coach) that together should be able to do better than just get into the NCAA Tournament.

I’ve gotta a feeling Sean believes he has a team capable of making the dance and advancing to the second weekend (and possibly even further)… IF the team can play a little tougher on defense and a little smarter on offense and if the players can stay healthy.

At the same time, I get that there is no real advantage for Miller to set expectations too high in public. It’s always better for a coach when he either meets or exceeds expectations.

[Olsingledigit]

I agree. We have a team now (and a coach) that together should be able to do better than just get into the NCAA Tournament.

I’ve gotta a feeling Sean believes he has a team capable of making the dance and advancing to the second weekend (and possibly even further)… IF the team can play a little tougher on defense and a little smarter on offense and if the players can stay healthy.

At the same time, I get that there is no real advantage for Miller to set expectations too high in public. It’s always better for a coach when he either meets or exceeds expectations.

As my dad used to say, "If the dog hadn't stopped to take a crap he would have caught the rabbit. Lots of ifs in the world."

[Xavier]

My expectations for this years team is higher than next years for sure. By quite a bit. (Unless we get some transfers). I think X can compete for the Big East title. Top 5 seed. A couple wins in March. But after last few years I’m happy making the tournament and winning a game. Losing Nunge and likey Colby will be tough.

[IM4X]

As my dad used to say, "If the dog hadn't stopped to take a crap he would have caught the rabbit. Lots of ifs in the world."


Always a lot of preseason speculation, including high expectations with a sprinkle of “ifs” followed by poor results and familiar excuses for those poor results at the end of just about every season from just about every coach of just about every team.

Let’s just hope this year Sean is with the other, much smaller group of coaches who will be under promising now and then over delivering by the clonclusion of the season.

[whopper]

My expectations for this years team is higher than next years for sure. By quite a bit. (Unless we get some transfers). I think X can compete for the Big East title. Top 5 seed. A couple wins in March. But after last few years I’m happy making the tournament and winning a game. Losing Nunge and likey Colby will be tough.

We will be adding Reid Ducharme, the point guard Green, Kachi Nzeh and hopefully keeping Craft, Claude, Edwards, Tucker{?} Tandy(?), Zach(?) and a transfer. Probably Jones gone but we should be oK

[paulxu]

On the ESPN story about the NCAA and NIL, there was this note:


Broadly, the NCAA said schools cannot be involved in sourcing, negotiating or facilitating NIL deals for their athletes. Services related to NIL deals, such as legal review of contracts, can only be provided if those same services are available to the entire student body.

"The only services that schools are really allowed to provide for athletes under this new guidance are educational services:

Then there is this from Xavier:

https://goxavier.com/news/2022/10/20/baseball-xavier-partners-with-opendorse-to-provide-an-nil-marketplace-for-its-student-athletes.aspx

Something seems haywire.

[paulxu]

Way to go Jack !

https://goxavier.com/news/2022/10/28/mens-basketball-jack-nunge-named-to-the-preseason-watch-list-for-the-kareem-abdul-jabbar-award.aspx

[JTG]

I agree the long term record for this group is shaky. However, looking back at the NIT after Steele was let go and I'm mostly optimistic about the potential this season holds. I realize the level of competition in most of the NIT is not on par as a majority of the Big East, but these core guys as a group looked so much better in a matter of days after a coaching change.

I'm not foolish enough to think we can't have another disappointing season, but more optimistic and encouraged by the potential this group with Coach Miller has.

Agree, the NIT proved that coaching was an issue in the regular season.

[xukeith]

Jerry Stackhouse can definitely coach.

[xu82]

Agree, the NIT proved that coaching was an issue in the regular season.

What a relief that was! I had been forcing myself to watch for a few years, but I can’t say I enjoyed it. It was painful!

[Masterofreality]

The “secret scrimmage” vs Vandy went badly with VU winning by like 20.
Xavier’s defense was apparently abysmal. Gonna take a while to get Steele’s trash “defensive principles” out of the mindset.
Sean is just the guy to do it.
Zone May be a requirement early

[xuwillie]

The “secret scrimmage” vs Vandy went badly with VU winning by like 20.
Xavier’s defense was apparently abysmal. Gonna take a while to get Steele’s trash “defensive principles” out of the mindset.
Sean is just the guy to do it.
Zone May be a requirement early

Will be interesting to see what Miller does with freemantle. We where a much better team when he came off the bench at the end of last year. He’s just too much a liability on defense.

[Xville]

The “secret scrimmage” vs Vandy went badly with VU winning by like 20.
Xavier’s defense was apparently abysmal. Gonna take a while to get Steele’s trash “defensive principles” out of the mindset.
Sean is just the guy to do it.
Zone May be a requirement early

That and we have free the human goalpost in the frontcourt. I’ll stand by my opinion that it would have been better had he left.

[whopper]

just looked at the box last March v Vanderbilit and interesting.. Zach w 16 and 6 in 26 min, Colby 13, Kunk 14 , Jack 10, Nate 12. Pippen Jr strong first half but dogged by Dwon in second and remember hiim missing 3 at buzzer. It is a long season and hope Sean can figure it out.

[Xavier]

Could be the best thing to happen to them. A huge wake up call Sean can use without the game counting.

[xukeith]

just looked at the box last March v Vanderbilit and interesting.. Zach w 16 and 6 in 26 min, Colby 13, Kunk 14 , Jack 10, Nate 12. Pippen Jr strong first half but dogged by Dwon in second and remember hiim missing 3 at buzzer. It is a long season and hope Sean can figure it out.

X likely has 3 players who can play defense well: Jones, Claude, and Nunge. I am assuming Boum can use 3 years of experience to play mediocre defense.
Kunkel hopefully can stop a player from driving. Freemantle is a weak area on defense- no surprise. Craft says he can play defense. Miles only plays defense. Hunter ? Tandy?

[IM4X]

The “secret scrimmage” vs Vandy went badly with VU winning by like 20.
Xavier’s defense was apparently abysmal.

Ouch! Right in the gut. I was not ready for that news.

[muskiefan82]

Ouch! Right in the gut. I was not ready for that news.

I'm sure Miller asked vandy to run sets that highlighted defensive weaknesses. These are learning opportunities that the coaches use.

[IM4X]

I'm sure Miller asked vandy to run sets that highlighted defensive weaknesses. These are learning opportunities that the coaches use.

I sure hope that’s the case.

[IM4X]

I know we’re all excited about Sean’s return to X and we all know we have a few big time players on the roster, but does this team look anywhere close to as talented (or as deep) as some of the better X teams that went on runs in the NCAA tournament? Those teams had so much more proven talent coming off the bench. If a few of their players went down with an injury or even got into foul trouble, there was not much of a drop off.

I don’t see that being the case with the current group. Not that’s it’s it’s fair to compare. I’m just trying to gage the talent and realistic expectations of this team. While Sean may only need 7 or 8 to play at a high level, do we think their are that many on the team? What about if there is an injury? God forbid if something should happen to Nunge and he had to be out for an extended period of time -we’d be screwed.

I am not even saying that the beating by Vandy confirms X is going to be a bad team all season- just that they appear to be not so great now and maybe it suggests X doesn’t have enough quality talent to be a BE contender or to make a deep run should we make the tournament.

Or it could their beating by Vandy simply mean X is a team that just has very poor defense and Sean will get it figured out.

[Xavier]

I don’t think anyone is thinking this will be one of the better teams X has had. But the way they playing the NIT+Sean- there’s some decent expectations. And they do have the talent to hit those expectations. Freemantle defense is the biggest concern, obviously.

[xukeith]

Hope they can play zone defense.

[bleedXblue]

Man some of you guys.

It was a scrimmage. Give Sean 4-5 games to get his system and rotation in order.

Talking zone already?? Questioning the talent? GTFOH

[drudy23]

We've all done our part at ripping Steele, and rightfully so, but most of us also have the question in the back of our mind "maybe these guys just aren't as good as we think they are" - I do think we have talent, but I certainly could be wrong.

I'm not terribly concerned about the scrimmage. I would imagine Sean had more things on his mind than winning the game. It's a new system, tinkering with lineups, and holding people accountable. I won't be surprised if we're not very good on D as we really haven't been great on defense with these guys. The defensive mentality that Sean I'm sure is trying to instill is light years away from the expectations they had on defense under Steele.

Steele would constantly mean mug and talk tough when we sucked on D, but didn't really ever hold anyone accountable for it.

[bleedXblue]

Man some of you guys.

It was a scrimmage. Give Sean 4-5 games to get his system and rotation in order.

Talking zone already?? Questioning the talent? GTFOH

To be clear, I don't think this team is massively talented. I do think we have enough to finish top 4 in the league and go to the tourney.

[IM4X]

We've all done our part at ripping Steele, and rightfully so, but most of us also have the question in the back of our mind "maybe these guys just aren't as good as we think they are" - I do think we have talent, but I certainly could be wrong.

I'm not terribly concerned about the scrimmage. I would imagine Sean had more things on his mind than winning the game. It's a new system, tinkering with lineups, and holding people accountable. I won't be surprised if we're not very good on D as we really haven't been great on defense with these guys. The defensive mentality that Sean I'm sure is trying to instill is light years away from the expectations they had on defense under Steele.

Steele would constantly mean mug and talk tough when we sucked on D, but didn't really ever hold anyone accountable for it.


This is very much what I am feeling. We are likely not as bad as the 20 point might suggest. I can certainly buy that Sean was tinkering with lineups and possibly even giving more playing time to guys on the bench to make them more battle tested and how well they respond in a game when it isn’t their own teammates they are scrimmaging against. I would imagine Vandy was doing the same thing- so there is that point to consider too.

I would argue that Steele probably didn’t hold players accountable on defense because he didn’t know how to show struggling players play better defense. At the same time, I am not going to automatically assume Miller will have this team playing great defense either. I believe he can make the defense better than what it was last year under Travis, but how much better remains to be seen.

We know Sean is getting big bucks for his ability to work his magic. For that reason, I expect him to have better tricks up his sleeve than the charlatan magician who preformed here prior - A showman who failed to pull a single dancing rabbit out of his hat in four years.

[IM4X]

To be clear, I don't think this team is massively talented. I do think we have enough to finish top 4 in the league and go to the tourney.

To be clear, I feel it is too early to say how good this team will be. Heck, some of the great X teams have looked horrible half way through the season only to finally click and go on a beautiful run in the tourney.

We just don’t know yet what level of talent the new players bring and we probably won’t have a true understanding of how well Sean can get this team playing together (offensively and defensively) until close to the end of the season.

[bleedXblue]

To be clear, I feel it is too early to say how good this team will be. Heck, some of the great X teams have looked horrible half way through the season only to finally click and go on a beautiful run in the tourney.

We just don’t know yet what level of talent the new players bring and we probably won’t how good Sean can get this team to play together (offensively and defensively) until close to the end of the season.

We did win the NIT with the core guys returning this year. Added a 20 PPG scorer and a very solid, proven head coach.

We've been picked to finish in the Top 4 of the league by just about every preseason poll.....

[drudy23]

If we end up top 4 in this league, we're pretty good.

[IM4X]

We did win the NIT with the core guys returning this year. Added a 20 PPG scorer and a very solid, proven head coach.

We've been picked to finish in the Top 4 of the league by just about every preseason poll.....

And after all of that hype, X goes and gets destroyed by a team that I can’t even find in anyone’s top 40. “That’s why they play the games.”

Last season’s NIT Championship was nice, but it doesn’t mean much this season. This team needs to prove they are deserving of all the hype. Boum needs to prove he can score on BE players the way he was able to score on players in a mid major conference.

Fans can say that “X is still figuring things out” and that is obviously true. Isn’t Vandy also still figuring things out too? That’s why they play the games. Right? This X team got off to a rough start (even the game didn’t officially count). That’s a fact that we probably shouldn’t be overlooking. I still expect X to steadily get better throughout the season. It’s just a bit of a surprise to read all that preseason hype and then hear that they played as poorly as they did out of the gate.

[Xavier]

Man. You’re putting WAY too much stock into a scrimmage. Good lord…. Didn’t Gonzaga lose by 30 to Tennessee? Just relax, you are jumping off a bridge over a nothing game.

[UCGRAD4X]

Man. You’re putting WAY too much stock into a scrimmage. Good lord…. Didn’t Gonzaga lose by 30 to Tennessee? Just relax, you are jumping off a bridge over a nothing game.

Probably - an it probably should go without saying under any circumstances.

That being said, one big difference in this particular case is that Gonzaga has a a great bit of success and stability and have a pretty good idea of "who they are".

Xavier does not. We are all a bit in the dark and are looking at every bit of evidence to shed some light into the darkness resulting from the previous years. Practices, midnight/muskie madness, exhibitions, even polls and such are all we have to go on at this point.

[D-West & PO-Z]

And there were seasoned fans worried about the loss of Travis and what that would do to the program, recruiting, rebuilding etc.

To the point that they were advocating for him to stay the course and for us to have faith in the process

Man don't they look foolish right now

Seriously.

Imagine the mood of fans around the program right now if Steele was still coach.

Thank good Christopher chose to #SaveTheProgram

[D-West & PO-Z]

I think those folks were silly, and I was 100% for firing Steele (hiring Miller was just the cherry on top), but let's see some actual basketball before spiking the football.

Even if this season doesnt turn out like we hope, I am spiking the football.

There is talent here but these aren't Miller's guys. He will get his guys to X and have us back competing at the top of the BE, even if it doesn't happen this year.

[D-West & PO-Z]

ESPN and the deuce are carrying the games in Portland.
If we could get by Florida, we'd probably get Duke. I'd love a little revenge.

Revenge for 2004? Or revenge for that game against top 10 teams in 2008 that didn't really happen and that I definitely was not in attendance for?

[paulxu]

Revenge for 2004? Or revenge for that game against top 10 teams in 2008 that didn't really happen and that I definitely was not in attendance for?

For me it's 2004.
In 2008 we played 14,6,7 and #1 seeded UCLA which was a buck ugly game
In 2004 it was 10,2,3 and #1 Duke...which I sat through and damn near cried when Myles picked up his 5th. UGH.

[IM4X]

Probably - an it probably should go without saying under any circumstances.

That being said, one big difference in this particular case is that Gonzaga has a a great bit of success and stability and have a pretty good idea of "who they are".

Xavier does not. We are all a bit in the dark and are looking at every bit of evidence to shed some light into the darkness resulting from the previous years. Practices, midnight/muskie madness, exhibitions, even polls and such are all we have to go on at this point.

This is exactly right. It is possible a team is better than they look in their first preseason scrimmage. The thing is that this team has delivered below standard results for 4 straight years - up until Steele’s firing.

We can only judge how good this season’s team might be by what we see and hear. What is actually being seen in a scrimmage or game should probably hold a little more weight than any speculation made by a group of individuals who didn’t yet get a chance to see them in action this season. Again, this X group may end up being a damn good team by the end of the season with Miller at the helm. Unfortunately, the fact remains that they lost by a bunch (for whatever reason) in the scrimmage against Vandy.

Also, we all know X has a number of key players on the roster who have been very inconsistent. Can those inconsistent players become more consistently good? Can Sean get this particular group to play smarter… make better decisions… play tougher defense? Most of us believe it is possible. Still, after the past 4 frustrating years - filled with high expectations and empty promises - it only makes sense that fans start becoming doubting Thomases They’ll believe X is back to being good again when they actually see it with their own eyes… when X finishes at or near the top of the BE, gets back into the NCAA Tournament and goes on a nice little run.

Finally, as ecstatic as the vast most of us are about Sean being back (I include myself in that group), his return doesn’t automatically guarantee X will get into the NCAA tournament in his first season. It’s not like he is coaching the same guys he lead to a NCAA tournament last season. Also, I’ll just point out that he didn’t make the tournament his first year at the helm of X or Arizona. Now he is back starting a new chapter at X. Can he break that first season trend? Let’s hope he can. He’s got to be feeling extremely determined to get back to the tournament. He knows (and has even made it public) the expectations for X.

[D-West & PO-Z]

For me it's 2004.
In 2008 we played 14,6,7 and #1 seeded UCLA which was a buck ugly game
In 2004 it was 10,2,3 and #1 Duke...which I sat through and damn near cried when Myles picked up his 5th. UGH.

My 2008 reference was to when we may or may not have lost to Duke in NJ with Duke's current head coach, maybe or maybe not having score 23 points in route to a blowout of X. But I don't think that really happened.

[bleedXblue]

And after all of that hype, X goes and gets destroyed by a team that I can’t even find in anyone’s top 40. “That’s why they play the games.”

Last season’s NIT Championship was nice, but it doesn’t mean much this season. This team needs to prove they are deserving of all the hype. Boum needs to prove he can score on BE players the way he was able to score on players in a mid major conference.

Fans can say that “X is still figuring things out” and that is obviously true. Isn’t Vandy also still figuring things out too? That’s why they play the games. Right? This X team got off to a rough start (even the game didn’t officially count). That’s a fact that we probably shouldn’t be overlooking. I still expect X to steadily get better throughout the season. It’s just a bit of a surprise to read all that preseason hype and then hear that they played as poorly as they did out of the gate.

Good lord it was a freaking scrimmage.

[IM4X]

Good lord it was a freaking scrimmage.

Ha. Yes. Very true. I guess watching X play below the X standard the past 4 years has really gotten to me. I need to see X playing like X again. I know the team is in much better hands now with Sean, but I don’t think I could handle another year of X not making the NCAA tournament. It’s time -this year- for opponents to start fearing the X again and for X to be that team that everyone expect to be in the tournament year after year and advancing.

[drudy23]

Ha. Yes. Very true. I guess watching X play below the X standard the past 4 years has really gotten to me. I need to see X playing like X again. I know the team is in much better hands now with Sean, but I don’t think I could handle another year of X not making the NCAA tournament. It’s time -this year- for opponents to start fearing the X again.

I think they will make the tournament this year - BUT, it is absolutely still a year of transition. It might not gel in time - it will be a disappointment, but that's the nature of the beast with coaching changes.

[Xuperman]

To be clear, I don't think this team is massively talented.

Man, you must have a very high standard for what you consider "talent".

TWO ALL BE FIRST teamers, with an additional former 1st teamer (100% healthy?) + 2 highly ranked Frosh.

No high anxiety necessary here, Coach Miller is a Top 10 coach this century..... more than enough talent to get the kick ass machine revived.

[IM4X]

I think they will make the tournament this year - BUT, it is absolutely still a year of transition. It might not gel in time - it will be a disappointment, but that's the nature of the beast with coaching changes.

They’ve just gotta make that tournament. We don’t need a flawless season -just one where the team has at least 3 or more wins than last season and where they're peaking at the right time so they can get invited to the tournament and play well enough to give them a chance to advance. It would be nice to have at least one current X player on the roster who has been to at least one NCAA tournament and advanced. At least the team has Sean as Dante (whose had that tournament winning experience in an X uniform).

[Xville]

Just make the tournament, that's all. I think there are good pieces on the team, enough to make the tournament. Is there elite college level talent like a Tre, Tu, West, Sato etc..nope but there are good pieces and with an actual coach, there are no excuses.

[GoMuskies]

I hope Xavier plays well and wins by a nice 10-12 point margin tomorrow. KWC's coach was my grade school teammate, so I'd hate to see him get blown out. Actually, he has a kind of interesting story. Never made the basketball team in 4 years at Louisville St. X, where we had a pretty average high school program. Went off to Division II Assumption College in Massachusetts and became a 2,000 point career scorer. Then, obviously, the coaching. He was at Thomas More before he got the Kentucky Wesleyan job.

[DexterBailey84]

Good lord it was a freaking scrimmage.

Yes, sooooo much this!
Good lord people, how uptight can we be?

https://youtu.be/fNFzfwLM72c

[bleedXblue]

Man, you must have a very high standard for what you consider "talent".

TWO ALL BE FIRST teamers, with an additional former 1st teamer (100% healthy?) + 2 highly ranked Frosh.

No high anxiety necessary here, Coach Miller is a Top 10 coach this century..... more than enough talent to get the kick ass machine revived.

We have "talent" no doubt, but also significant question marks at PG and SG. And Free is the true definition of a wild card at this point.

Hoping Miller can work some magic with this crew and get them playing together......and playing some D.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Starting lineup projections?

I am thinking:
Boum
Kunkel
Jones
Free
Nunge

If Claude is ready I think it would be great and better:

Claude
Boum
Jones
Free
Nunge

Thoughts?

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Starting lineup projections?

I am thinking:
Boum
Kunkel
Jones
Free
Nunge

If Claude is ready I think it would be great and better:

Claude
Boum
Jones
Free
Nunge

Thoughts?

I have no inside sources but given that we have not identified a "floor general" and Miller, when he was at Pitt was the absolute epitome of that role and will likely want someone to fill a similar role for X, I think we will see Claude in starting line-up. Staff has been raving about him, from what I've heard, Bohm is a scorer and may not be as effective in that role. I guess we shall see.

In the end, we will likely see multiple different lineups as the season progresses and who is in the starting lineup initially, may not be important. Nevertheless, is fun to speculate.

[drudy23]

I agree that I cannot fathom a Sean Miller team not having a true point guard to guide the ship. That's why I believe we will see:

Claude
Boum
Jones
Free
Nunge

[Xuperman]

I expect Coach will tinker with the starting 5 a little, however I am hoping it ends up being Jones, Boum, Hunter, ZFree, Nunge come mid December. If that ends up becoming reality, it means Coach acknowledges and wants to refine CoJo's backcourt skills AND Hunter plays to his strengths and earns the start at the 3.

No only would that floor our most physical 5......the experience factor is off the chart.

[xukeith]

I expect Coach will tinker with the starting 5 a little, however I am hoping it ends up being Jones, Boum, Hunter, ZFree, Nunge come mid December. If that ends up becoming reality, it means Coach acknowledges and wants to refine CoJo's backcourt skills AND Hunter plays to his strengths and earns the start at the 3.

No only would that floor our most physical 5......the experience factor is off the chart.

Hope also the team can play defense.

[IM4X]

I expect Coach will tinker with the starting 5 a little, however I am hoping it ends up being Jones, Boum, Hunter, ZFree, Nunge come mid December. If that ends up becoming reality, it means a certain someone learned how to make layups and pigs started flying.

I think this is what you meant to say, right?

I kid.

[Xuperman]

Hunter is a gifted player that has had to make major adjustments. I think he has not been able to display his true potential. If it all comes together for him under Coach Miller, good things will happen for sure.

[IM4X]

Using you logic, the entire performance of the team would be "neutral." Some guys will be net positives, and they will necessarily have to be offset by guys that are net negatives. If all the guys are net positives, then basically they are all neutral.

Point being, there MUST be players that are net negatives on all teams. Hunter was one last year and could be one again this year....


No question that there are net negative players that exist on all teams. That’s not the issue. You’d expect to see those players spending most of their time on the bench. It’s the player who is pretty consistently a net negative on the court and still getting significant minutes that’s the problem. Someone whose multiple poor decisions and even poor shooting in a game are causing critical momentum swings (6+ point swings) and making it that much harder for their team to come out victorious.

To your point, Hunter could be a net negative. If Miller is seeing more of the same from him this season, it’s hard to believe he will keep Hunter on the court as much as Steele did. Then again maybe, just maybe Miller has been able to help Hunter play smarter. If so it would say quite a lot about the effect of Steele on players.

[XUGRAD80]

To your point, Hunter could be a net negative. If Miller is seeing more of the same from him this season, it’s hard to believe he will keep Hunter on the court as much as Steele did. Then again maybe, just maybe Miller has been able to help Hunter play smarter. If so it would say quite a lot about the effect of Steele on players.

He certainly looked like a different player in this 1st game. Hope he continues like this. If he does he will certainly be a net positive for the team.

[XUBison]

Hunter is a gifted player that has had to make major adjustments. I think he has not been able to display his true potential. If it all comes together for him under Coach Miller, good things will happen for sure.

Credit where credit is due— at least through game one. Hunter was great tonight. Byron kept talking about how Sean was getting him to play to his strengths— no 3-pointers.

[XUBison]

*Double post.

[Xuperman]

Man, let's pray that Nunge stays healthy. I almost wish Coach would limit his PT for all the cupcakes and try to develop some kind of plan B. It doesn't look like Miles can be productive at the D1 level, and based on last night Edwards might be a non-factor, but that comment could easily not age well. Are we going to see Zach play some post? I guess it could be effective with Hunter in there with Jones, but that would not go well in BE play.

The backcourt has numerous options, even if Boum picks up an injury. Granted, it was an odd opener for both Tandy and Kunkel. Tandy getting the start was likely practice earned, but he will add some solid production regardless of how he's used. Kunk had a perfect night shooting, but only managed 11 minutes.....very curious. Both Frosh look to have a high degree of potential and will only get better going forward.

Team looked good.

[paulxu]

Based on reports( of how different guys did last night, it seems there is a clear departure from the last couple of years (not shooting 3's if that's not your strength.)
I can't quite get on board with the animus towards Steele. As a first time head coach at the BE level, combined with the Covid impact, he had a tough road. But I think he made a good effort for the Xavier team; just maybe in a little over his head.

Miller has a great advantage. He's coached at X before, and demonstrated he knows how to get to the second weekend.
That's got to go a long way in having the players do what he wants because they believe it's a way to success.

Should be a fun year.

[drudy23]

I can't quite get on board with the animus towards Steele. As a first time head coach at the BE level, combined with the Covid impact, he had a tough road. But I think he made a good effort for the Xavier team



I disagree. Sure, in years 1 and 2, you can expect a learning curve, and fans gave him some leeway, rightfully so. But he literally didn't adjust anything. He doubled down on his way, and nothing could veer him from that path. He was his own worst enemy, and his firing was on him, not circumstance.

[Xville]

I disagree. Sure, in years 1 and 2, you can expect a learning curve, and fans gave him some leeway, rightfully so. But he literally didn't adjust anything. He doubled down on his way, and nothing could veer him from that path. He was his own worst enemy, and his firing was on him, not circumstance.

Agreed. I'm sure he's a nice guy and I'm trying not to pile on the guy, but he has no business running a d1 basketball team. It's clear he knows analytics, and he may be a great salesman based on his recruiting numbers, but he doesn't know basketball, at least not to the extent a D1 coach should.

[X-band '01]

Based on reports( of how different guys did last night, it seems there is a clear departure from the last couple of years (not shooting 3's if that's not your strength.)
I can't quite get on board with the animus towards Steele. As a first time head coach at the BE level, combined with the Covid impact, he had a tough road. But I think he made a good effort for the Xavier team; just maybe in a little over his head.

Miller has a great advantage. He's coached at X before, and demonstrated he knows how to get to the second weekend.
That's got to go a long way in having the players do what he wants because they believe it's a way to success.

Should be a fun year.

There was only so long that this fanbase was going to tolerate Xavier's NCAA Tournament absence and Steele's excuses. That said, I still want to wait and see how this team develops comes February and March, but I have a lot more faith this year than the past 3 seasons, for example.

[xukeith]

There was only so long that this fanbase was going to tolerate Xavier's NCAA Tournament absence and Steele's excuses. That said, I still want to wait and see how this team develops comes February and March, but I have a lot more faith this year than the past 3 seasons, for example.

Did Steele make up some excuses why he couldn't get X to the NCAA tourney? Maybe him saying, "Other team played harder but that's on me. Must be fixed." "

[paulxu]

I have no love for Clemson. Was cheering for ND (and that's hard for me also).
But here's one way to handle a loss. Take the blame and move on.

https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10054800-dabo-swinney-criticism-should-be-directed-at-me-after-clemsons-loss-to-notre-dame

[X-band '01]

That's just foosball - nobody cares about that down in Sparkle City.

[paulxu]

Sparkle City lies in the heart of Clempson country in the Upstate.
Hard to be a Gamecock fan here.
Have no love for Dabo...he plays the "I'm a Christian" card too often.
But he handled the loss well.

(GO COCKS!)

[noteggs]

Comments from Sean on Kyky

https://twitter.com/adamjbaum/status/1589826931591368705?s=42&t=fJO8rKvbr9_1G9N9RfPeKQ

Apologize if this has been posted…

[murray87]

Love that about KyKy. Glad his hard work has paid off to this point. Hard to believe that was his first career start at X. Make the most of it kid!!

[webxu]

Agreed. I'm sure he's a nice guy and I'm trying not to pile on the guy, but he has no business running a d1 basketball team. It's clear he knows analytics, and he may be a great salesman based on his recruiting numbers, but he doesn't know basketball, at least not to the extent a D1 coach should.

FWIW: Steele lost his first game with the Redhawks to Evansville.. the Redhawks were 6/23 from 3... poor shooting seems to follow.

[drudy23]

FWIW: Steele lost his first game with the Redhawks to Evansville.. the Redhawks were 6/23 from 3... poor shooting seems to follow.

Especially when your philosophy is "just keep shooting them, they have to go in eventually, right?"

[drudy23]

Let's recap all of the things us fans were right about over the last few years:

1) It's ok and preferred to play 2 bigs at the same time
2) Fremantle shouldn't be shooting 3s and spending a bunch of time on the perimeter
3) Hunter shouldn't be shooting 3s and spending a bunch of time on the perimeter
4) KyKy can contribute
5) The pass around and shoot 3s offense doesn't work for the strengths of this team
6) We need more bulk for Big East play (and still do)
7) Defense is a liability, not a strength ("this might be the best defensive team I've ever had" lol)
8) I'm sure I'm missing some

[bleedXblue]

[QUOTE=drudy23;741968]Let's recap all of the things us fans were right about over the last few years:

1) It's ok and preferred to play 2 bigs at the same time
2) Fremantle shouldn't be shooting 3s and spending a bunch of time on the perimeter
3) Hunter shouldn't be shooting 3s and spending a bunch of time on the perimeter
4) KyKy can contribute
5) The pass around and shoot 3s offense doesn't work for the strengths of this team
6) We need more bulk for Big East play (and still do)
7) Defense is a liability, not a strength ("this might be the best defensive team I've ever had" lol)
8) I'm sure I'm missing some[/QUOTE

1. It is super refreshing to see a coach pull a player to the side as they are coming off the floor and give them some feedback. Miller will regularly walk down the bench and talk to a player. Steele would rarely do this.

2. I'm looking forward to seeing Miller stick his foot up someones a**. Steele would never do this

[JTG]

[QUOTE=drudy23;741968]Let's recap all of the things us fans were right about over the last few years:



2. I'm looking forward to seeing Miller stick his foot up someones a**. Steele would never do this

I think Monday nite when he told the 5 guys going to the bench to " Get the F*ck off the Court" would qualify.

[Blue Blooded-05]

[QUOTE=bleedXblue;741980]

I think Monday nite when he told the 5 guys going to the bench to " Get the F*ck off the Court" would qualify.

Haha. Sean's potty mouth has not left him. I still remember one of Sean's teams playing poorly at Fordham years ago. The camera was focused on him during a temporary break in the action when he looked at the bench and yelled "THIS IS A F***ING NIGHTMARE!!!" Could hear it clear as day on TV in that small ass gym.

[paulxu]

[QUOTE=bleedXblue;741980]

I think Monday nite when he told the 5 guys going to the bench to " Get the F*ck off the Court" would qualify.

Was this really a thing that happened? Did he change 5 players out at once?

[94GRAD]

[QUOTE=JTG;741983]

Was this really a thing that happened? Did he change 5 players out at once?

Yes, halfway through the second half. Sean mentions it at the 14min mark

https://youtu.be/RYcI-7DaVeM

[paulxu]

Thanks!

[profson]

Man, let's pray that Nunge stays healthy. I almost wish Coach would limit his PT for all the cupcakes and try to develop some kind of plan B. It doesn't look like Miles can be productive at the D1 level, and based on last night Edwards might be a non-factor, but that comment could easily not age well. Are we going to see Zach play some post? I guess it could be effective with Hunter in there with Jones, but that would not go well in BE play.

The backcourt has numerous options, even if Boum picks up an injury. Granted, it was an odd opener for both Tandy and Kunkel. Tandy getting the start was likely practice earned, but he will add some solid production regardless of how he's used. Kunk had a perfect night shooting, but only managed 11 minutes.....very curious. Both Frosh look to have a high degree of potential and will only get better going forward.

Team looked good.

Kunkel reduced time was planned as he was coming off an ankle issue.

[X Factor]

[QUOTE=drudy23;741968]

1. It is super refreshing to see a coach pull a player to the side as they are coming off the floor and give them some feedback. Miller will regularly walk down the bench and talk to a player. Steele would rarely do this.

Couldn't agree more. Sean "coaches" during the game. He tells players where they need to be and he coaches them when they go to the bench.

Steele rarely ever did those things. He was too busy being a cheerleader and clapping all the time, after a good play or a bad play.

[bleedXblue]

[QUOTE=bleedXblue;741980]

Couldn't agree more. Sean "coaches" during the game. He tells players where they need to be and he coaches them when they go to the bench.

Steele rarely ever did those things. He was too busy being a cheerleader and clapping all the time, after a good play or a bad play.

I honestly don't think he knew what to do. He's a recruiter first and foremost. Understanding the game and how to coach and adjust during a game is NOT his strength.

[XU 87]

It's still early, but based on one game, this team is WAY more disciplined than the Steele teams. For example, no dumb threes by mediocre shooters early in the shot clock.

On top of that, lots of off ball movement, something we didn't see much under Steele.

[xukeith]

Why so much Steele chatter?

[xu82]

Why so much Steele chatter?

It’s refreshing to see good (OK, better?) basketball and coaching? The contrast is immediately striking.

I was losing my interest in Xavier basketball because it was painful to watch. I’m encouraged and hopeful again. Hope is a wonderful thing.

[X Factor]

It’s refreshing to see good (OK, better?) basketball and coaching? The contrast is immediately striking.

I was losing my interest in Xavier basketball because it was painful to watch. I’m encouraged and hopeful again. Hope is a wonderful thing.

Exactly. Just search YouTube for Steele's first post-game press conference for Miami. He definitely hasn't changed. Used more one liners and regurgitated answers in the first three minutes than I could count.

[drudy23]

Exactly. Just search YouTube for Steele's first post-game press conference for Miami. He definitely hasn't changed. Used more one liners and regurgitated answers in the first three minutes than I could count.

Damn you, you made me look - and yes, sounded very familiar. I need to move on lol

[X-band '01]

I got this gem when I typed in Miami-Evansville:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4YVB8XJ-Kc

[xukeith]

Miller was quoted last night that this X team has the ingredients to be a very good offensive team.

Not sure if this team can play top 50 kenpom defense, but if X can, we might be very good.