Game Thread: Xavier v Creighton University (1/11/2023)

[paulxu]

https://live.staticflickr.com/4074/4819000479_2020c62eb9_n.jpg VS.https://www.mascotfactory.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Creighton-Bluejay-300x300.jpg

CINCINNATI --- The Xavier University Musketeers, 13-3 overall and 5-0 in the BIG EAST Conference, take a nine-game winning streak into Wednesday night's game vs. the Creighton University Bluejays, the team picked by the league coaches as the preseason favorite. Xavier's nine-game win streak is its longest since the 2017-18 season. The 5-0 start to BIG EAST play marks XU's best start since joining the league for the 2013-14 season.

Xavier moved up to 12th in this week's AP Poll and 11th in the USA Today Coaches Poll after checking in at No. 18 in both polls last week.

THE MATCHUP

NO. 12/11 XAVIER UNIVERSITY MUSKETEERS (13-3, 5-0 BIG EAST)
RV/-- CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY BLUEJAYS (9-7, 3-2 BIG EAST)
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 11, 2023 AT 7:00 P.M. ET
AT CINTAS CENTER (10,224) IN CINCINNATI, OHIO

TV, RADIO & LIVE STATS

Television: FS1 with play by-play from Jason Benetti and analysis from Bill Raftery. Radio: 700 WLW with play-by-play from Xavier Hall of Famer Joe Sunderman ('79) and analysis from XU all-time leading scorer and Hall of Famer Byron Larkin ('88). XU broad- cast also available on Sirius XM channel 109 or 201 and 964 on the SXM App.
Live Stats: Media stats at Statbroadcast.com (http://statbroadcast.com) and fan stats at GoXavier.com. (http://goxavier.com)

[paulxu]

We must be picking up steam...Raftery is coming in to call the game.

[Xavier]

I’m more nervous for creighton than Marquette this week. KAlkbrenner is a handful on D- especially with how we love to attack the glass on offense. He will be looking for blocks all night.

[Xville]

X -3 ....seems like a game that X should win at home and beat that spread, but that's why they play the games. Kind of disappointed that UCONN-Marquette is on at the same time as our game. That should be a good one as well.

[xukeith]

Does FS1 get significant better ratings than CBSSN? I am assuming so.

[X-band '01]

I’m more nervous for creighton than Marquette this week. KAlkbrenner is a handful on D- especially with how we love to attack the glass on offense. He will be looking for blocks all night.

We'll see how he matches up come Wednesday - he looked very ordinary against UConn this weekend.

[paulxu]

We'll see how me matches up come Wednesday - he looked very ordinary against UConn this weekend.

What's your jersey number so I can follow the stat line? (Hah!)

[X-band '01]

#1. That's the jersey number I have in my closet.

[Masterofreality]

Yeah this game is really about matchups.I know Jack can stop Kalkbrenner. I think Souley can do a good job on Nembhard and Colby can shut down Schierman. Free needs to stop Kaluma.
Sean is a man to man until death guy so we’re gonna ride this train.

[Masterofreality]

I’m more nervous for creighton than Marquette this week. KAlkbrenner is a handful on D- especially with how we love to attack the glass on offense. He will be looking for blocks all night.

Reverse the ball, and if Jack hits his first 3, then Kalkbruenner is forced to leave the paint. Sean’s offense has plenty up his sleeve.

[Three Point Pete]

Yeah this game is really about matchups.I know Jack can stop Kalkbrenner. I think Souley can do a good job on Nembhard and Colby can shut down Schierman. Free needs to stop Kaluma.
Sean is a man to man until death guy so we’re gonna ride this train.I respectfully disagree. Baylor Scheierman, the POY from Summit league at 6'7 and 16 ppg, probably will not be "shut down " maybe Colby can slow him a bit. And Arthur Kaluma can be awesome or average. Free will have a challenge if the awesome guy shows up.
I think Souley can do a good job on Ryan, but Ryan can do a good job on Souley!
So, I'm worried. Go X.

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[Masterofreality]

I respectfully disagree. Baylor Scheierman, the POY from Summit league at 6'7 and 16 ppg, probably will not be "shut down " maybe Colby can slow him a bit. And Arthur Kaluma can be awesome or average. Free will have a challenge if the awesome guy shows up.
I think Souley can do a good job on Ryan, but Ryan can do a good job on Souley!
So, I'm worried. Go X.

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And I will respectfully disagree right back. Schierman is not gonna show up Colby. It could actually go the other way.
The Free - Kaluma matchup is the key.

[stammina0721]

Does FS1 get significant better ratings than CBSSN? I am assuming so.

For sure

[Xville]

I’d like to apologize to Xavier, the players, the staff, the fans… I just bet money on x tonight

[D-West & PO-Z]

I’d like to apologize to Xavier, the players, the staff, the fans… I just bet money on x tonight

Me too....kiss of death. I have a couple bets on the game but would love to hit my -2.5, over 151.5 parlay the most.

[xu2010]

Today feels like a great day to parlay Xavier TT over with Xavier ML.

[XUMIOH12]

Reverse the ball, and if Jack hits his first 3, then Kalkbruenner is forced to leave the paint. SeanÂ’s offense has plenty up his sleeve.

Yep, you can take advantage of Kalkbrenner by getting him involved in a lot of pick and roll/pick and pop, forcing him to play in space (much like last years wins over creighton). Will need Nunge to knock down a couple 3s to keep him honest, can't let him sit in the paint on D all game.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

I respectfully disagree. Baylor Scheierman, the POY from Summit league at 6'7 and 16 ppg, probably will not be "shut down " maybe Colby can slow him a bit. And Arthur Kaluma can be awesome or average. Free will have a challenge if the awesome guy shows up.
I think Souley can do a good job on Ryan, but Ryan can do a good job on Souley!
So, I'm worried. Go X.

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Sort of in your camp here. Some of us, including me, have an understandable bias when evaluating our own our guys. But when I look at Creighton, as a team, and X, as a team, the skill levels seem about at the same level. I don't think we are demonstratively superior at every position. There, of course, will be moments during the game when some matchups are favorable to us and some not. That's when Miller comes in and I have total faith that he makes the right coaching moves.

Two specific matchups I'll be watching tonight are Nunge-Kalbrenner and Coby-Scheierman . Kalkbrenner, in the past, has been more of a rim protector than Nunge so Jack is going to have to pull him away from the basket. Coby may, indeed, have his hands full with Scheierman, who is a multi-tool player, but that match-up is the type, I think, Colby will face if he goes to the Show next year. I think he'll perform well but will be interesting to watch and see how he does. Hoping our bench steps up big time. Hunter has been predictable, but I'd like to see Des Claude play more to what I think is his potential, specifically, look for his shot and avoid the dumbass freshman foul or turnover.

The students will be back. Tonight and Sunday we really need a return of the fired-up crowd we had at the UConn game. Holding serve is so critical to us right now. We face four certain road game challenges beginning with UConn on 01/25. We could lose all four---not predicting that just acknowledging the quality of teams on whose turf we will be playing.

[bleedXblue]

I agree the talent level and matchups are pretty close. For me 2-3 things will be important tonight:

1. Scheierman can't get ridiculously hot from 3. Throwing shots in from 3-4 feet behind the line. Cant let him go off tonight.

2. We should be able to exploit the post with both Free and Nunge. Those guys do their normal thing and I think Creighton will have a hard time scoring with us

3. Boum vs Nembhard is a key matchup on both sides of the ball.

[HenryMuto]

Why is X only favored by 2.5 pts ? At home and Creighton has 7 losses so if this game was on a neutral court X would be an underdog wow.

[GoMuskies]

Why is X only favored by 2.5 pts ? At home and Creighton has 7 losses so if this game was on a neutral court X would be an underdog wow.

Yes, Sagarin Predictor would have Xavier as a slight underdog on a neutral court.

[JTG]

Saw on Facebook Kunkel out.

[xu82]

Saw on Facebook Kunkel out.

Sick? Hurt?

[JTG]

Didn't say, just said that's why the line changed.

[XU_Lou]

Xavier Gameday says he's in per 6 minutes ago: https://twitter.com/XavierGameday/status/1613322500020273152

[XU_Lou]

Same with Baum: https://twitter.com/AdamJBaum/status/1613323271398912001

[noteggs]

Track meet

[IM4X]

Two absolute BS series on offense by X - rushing the ball and shooting quick shots with no one under the boards. Coach needs to stop that crap

[IM4X]

Finally back to working it inside

[IM4X]

Sloppy. Sloppy. Sloppy. Got to get back to doing what we do best. Not launching quick threes or forcing shots inside before things open up- patience fellas.

[noteggs]

Even with Kalk in there, we need to take advantage inside. Free’s a little off.

[Xville]

Need to play just a little bit of defense. Back to ymca defense so far in this one

[IM4X]

Other than Hunter, we have been 100% finesse . Getting pushed around. No rebounds. Not taking it to them. Sean needs to challenge these boys to not be little boys tonight - we need to see some grown men to show Creighton we are to be feared. Who besides Hunter has it in them tonight.

[HenryMuto]

This isn't going as planned I want to win this game I have been having a rough 7 days lately

[Xville]

Nunge helping off kalkbrenner is a recipe for disaster.

[noteggs]

Defense looks worse than usual

[GoMuskies]

Defense looks worse than usual

What defense?

[IM4X]

Coach Miller how about hiring a defensive minded coach to help the team. Almost every X player is unable to cover their guy.

[Xville]

Hunter with a three? Wow we are winning this game!

[Xville]

Creighton can’t play better than that.. play a little defense and x wins this by 7-9 points

[Lloyd Braun]

Coach Miller how about hiring a defensive minded coach to help the team. Almost every X player is unable to cover their guy.

He should hire 2008 coach Miller

[Caveat]

Colby Jones has been a defensive liability.

[Xville]

This lineup doesn’t work at all. Free randy for f sakes… geezus

[Xville]

Colby Jones has been a defensive liability.

Yep. If he ever wants to play at the next level, he needs to get better on that end

[KabeX]

Doesn't seem like it's our night. But it's still a 2 point game.

[Caveat]

I thought the team had put this kind of defensive non-effort behind them.

Getting blown by on the dribble and allowing uncontested 3s — this is a clown act against a very mediocre Creighton team.

[noteggs]

Someone tell Zach he can move his feet on defense

[IM4X]

KunkelÂ’s passing is atrocious tonight. Thank goodness for Hunter.

[IM4X]

And thank goodness for Boum.

[Xville]

Nice couple plays there by nunge! Way to run the floor big guy.

Play some d these next 4 minutes and take control of the game! Come on

[Caveat]

It’s incredible this team scores the way they do when Claude is on the floor. Guy is an absolute black hole on offense.

[xu82]

Yep. If he ever wants to play at the next level, he needs to get better on that end

One more reason to stay another year under the tutelage of Coach Miller! :-)

[KabeX]

No way he was shooting.

[HenryMuto]

Someone needs to stop freaking Scheierman

[HenryMuto]

Jfc never leave that guy

[Nigel Tufnel]

Colby Jones has been a defensive liability.

You may be right…but Scheirwhatever does seem to have a sneakily push off. And his last basket, he was in the lane about 5-6 seconds.

[Xville]

How many wide open threes are we gonna give the 40% three point shooter?

[KabeX]

Ugh. DON'T BAIL EM OUT!

[Xville]

Alright, got the lead… time to put the foot on the gas … lfg

[Three Point Pete]

Alright, got the lead… time to put the foot on the gas … lfgYep! Need to avoid slump.

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[Xville]

Ducking bullshit call. That was a walk

[KabeX]

Freshman turning into a Sophomore there!

[Xville]

Claude coming out party!!

[IM4X]

This is the X team we know and love.

kunkel is not having a great night though.

[HenryMuto]

Too many FT's for Creighton lately need to get some stops and finish them off with some big shots.

[IM4X]

Our bigs are doing a great job on the offensive boards now. Love it!

[KabeX]

My Gawd. Where would we be without the BOUM!

[Xville]

Hell of a last few minutes… come on finish them! Claude on d has made a huge difference the last five minutes

[kxblue]

This one almost as exciting as Korver/West NYE

[KabeX]

This one almost as exciting as Korver/West NYE
Almost. I was there (in the student section). Let's hope for the same result.

[Xville]

Get the damn ball to boum

[Caveat]

Stupid timeout by Miller there is giving to give Creighton a chance to win this.

[KabeX]

Ugh

[IM4X]

If the priority was to get the ball in Boums hand the las t few times down the court this game we might be up by 6 here.

[Xville]

Wtf… giving the game away… come on

[HenryMuto]

Damn it I wanted a foul there not a timeout now got to inbound it again

[Blue Blooded-05]

Gotta get the ball in here

[KabeX]

Damn it I wanted a foul there not a timeout now got to inbound it again
Agree. Npw we have to get it in

[xu82]

Great D by Colby in a critical situation.

[Xville]

Did Sean just headbutt kunkel? Lol

[KabeX]

ONE MORE and BOUM!

[Blue Blooded-05]

I wish the ncaa would limit end of game timeouts

[smileyy]

Turning into the ding dang NBA

[HenryMuto]

Of course they hit a 3 Boum should miss the 2nd FT

[KabeX]

Ugh. Gotta make 2

[HenryMuto]

Yessssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss ssss
what a game what a game
huge win

[KabeX]

Ice water!

[Xville]

A win right on the number.. I’ll take it! Great game, great win! Thank gawd for boum!

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Again, Boum saved the day. If only the other X players can shoot FTs like him. Close game, but a big WIN.

[noteggs]

Did Sean just headbutt kunkel? Lol

Lol!!! Thought I saw the same!

[KabeX]

This would have been a great game to have the coaches mic'd up. I'm sure it would have kept the beeper busy

[Xavgrad08]

Boum has been such a game changer for this team. I don’t know where this team would be without him. Still have to close out games a little better. Such a fun X team to watch.

[noteggs]

Besides missing the one and one, think Des played a good game. Hopefully he’s over the freshman stuff…for the most part.

[SemajParlor]

Well that was awesome. Felt like a tournament game. Phew. Great win

[bobbiemcgee]

One of our best games ever.

[Blue Blooded-05]

That game was exhausting. Fun, but exhausting.

They scored 87 points, shooting 50% from the floor, 43.5% from three and 81% from the line... and lost

They are much better than their record. We beat them at full strength.

[Caveat]

I marvel at how absolutely insane this offense is that it can out-score an 87 point defensive effort.

[X Factor]

Sean Miller is an offensive guru.

Souly Boum was incredible tonight.

What a fantastic game. I'm worn out and I was sitting on the couch slamming beers for 40 minutes.

[KabeX]

Sean Miller is an offensive guru.

Souly Boum was incredible tonight.

What a fantastic game. I'm worn out and I was sitting on the couch slamming beers for 40 minutes.
Me 2. Slamming a VICTORY BEER now. And again, as always, the first 5 were only nervous beers (so they don't count).

[American X]

That game did not feel good for quite a stretch, but they are 40 minutes. Credit Miller for in-game coaching and Boum being money.

Credit McDermott & coaches for scouting Xavier. They were prepared from the bounce. The tip at their house will be tough.

All that scoring and it came down to Jones getting the stop on Scheierman.

Claude had a key bucket and good defense, but please get him a basketball IQ supplement.

[KabeX]

That game did not feel good for quite a stretch, but they are 40 minutes. Credit Miller for in-game coaching and Boum being money.

Credit McDermott & coaches for scouting Xavier. They were prepared from the bounce. The tip at their house will be tough.

All that scoring and it came down to Jones getting the stop on Scheierman.

Claude had a key bucket and good defense, but please get him a basketball IQ supplement.
Usual spot on analysis AX. I really saw something from Claude tonite. Let's hope it continues Sunday. Think that will be just as tough as this game.

[Caveat]

That game did not feel good for quite a stretch, but they are 40 minutes. Credit Miller for in-game coaching and Boum being money.

Credit McDermott & coaches for scouting Xavier. They were prepared from the bounce. The tip at their house will be tough.

All that scoring and it came down to Jones getting the stop on Scheierman.

Claude had a key bucket and good defense, but please get him a basketball IQ supplement.

Claude offering any sort of threat on the offensive side is a big deal.

[xukeith]

Hunter shot and made that ill advised 3 pointer in1st half. That brought the house down.

Maybe Freemantle can have an awesome game Sunday. It is his turn.

Why didn't the turnover that Boum dribbled off his hand count as a turnover?

[muskiefan82]

Hunter shot and made that ill advised 3 pointer in1st half. That brought the house down.

Maybe Freemantle can have an awesome game Sunday. It is his turn.

Why didn't the turnover that Boum dribbled off his hand count as a turnover?
I feel like Miller asked Hunter his favorite spot for a 3, had him sit there, and gave him the green light to shoot it if they stayed way off him. I believe this was a called play for hunter

[xavierj]

That game did not feel good for quite a stretch, but they are 40 minutes. Credit Miller for in-game coaching and Boum being money.

Credit McDermott & coaches for scouting Xavier. They were prepared from the bounce. The tip at their house will be tough.

All that scoring and it came down to Jones getting the stop on Scheierman.

Claude had a key bucket and good defense, but please get him a basketball IQ supplement.

Best game Claude has played all year. He shut Baylor down for the last 9 minutes until Colby stopped him the last minute. Guy was on fire and had 25 with about 11 minutes left and then Zilch.

[XUGRAD80]

Just got back from the game. I sat next to a couple of Creighton fans that had driven down from Detroit to see the game. We all agreed that it was a great game and that the Big East Tourney is going to be wild this year. Other than Gtown there is not one single team that anyone can count on winning against. Every team can beat any other team on any given night. I just hope my heart can take 15-20 more nail biters. GO X!

[N67ER]

[QUOTE=xukeith;748875]Hunter shot and made that ill advised 3 pointer in1st half. That brought the house down.

It was not an ill advised 3 pointer. Creighton was leaving him wide open. Joe & Bryon surmised that Miller called the play. When he is wide open and can step into the shot, he is actually a pretty decent shot.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Havent read thread yet so this may have been said but the best thing by far about this team is that the DO NOT wilt under pressure. They ALWAYS have a response. The mental toughness Miller has instilled in this team in close game situations/coming back when the game looks dicey is amazing. Especially the improvement WITHIN THE SEASON Miller has made in this area. We don't lose IU or Gonzaga I don't think if we play those games at this point.

Also, what a fun team to watch (most of the time, lol) due to the offensive explosiveness. Even when it feels like we aren't playing great at times, we are on pace for like 90. Now defensively , not great, but we can outscore anyone in the country I think. We have already proved we can beat elite defense.

Big, big win. Onto Marquette!

[D-West & PO-Z]

Saw on Facebook Kunkel out.

Was a fake report on twitter by a fake reporter.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Colby Jones has been a defensive liability.

Colby wasn't great defensively most of the game, but as has been the case this season, he was huge defensively in a big spot at end of the game.

[KabeX]

Havent read thread yet so this may have been said but the best thing by far about this team is that the DO NOT wilt under pressure. They ALWAYS have a response. The mental toughness Miller has instilled in this team in close game situations/coming back when the game looks dicey is amazing. Especially the improvement WITHIN THE SEASON Miller has made in this area. We don't lose IU or Gonzaga I don't think if we play those games at this point.

Also, what a fun team to watch (most of the time, lol) due to the offensive explosiveness. Even when it feels like we aren't playing great at times, we are on pace for like 90. Now defensively , not great, but we can outscore anyone in the country I think. We have already proved we can beat elite defense.

Big, big win. Onto Marquette!

Great take DW. I agree. Mental fortitude (damn that's tough to type after a few victory beers) is evident. And it's not a coincidence. I don't how far we go this year (I like our chances) but think about the next 5+ years or so. Yep, I'm pretty freakin mentally excited!

[D-West & PO-Z]

Korver/West NYE

One of the best games ever at the 'tas!

[D-West & PO-Z]

I wish the ncaa would limit end of game timeouts

Like if you save your timeouts take them away anyway? Why would they do that?

[D-West & PO-Z]

Of course they hit a 3 Boum should miss the 2nd FT

No way, not with 2 secs left.

[KabeX]

One of the best games ever at the 'tas!

1 of 4 best games I've been to ever. The other 3: vs. UMass with Camby and Roe at the Gardens when they were #1 (we lost in OT); the handshake game (no further explanation required) and of course, the win over Nova to secure the BE reg season title. Damn, now I have to have more victory beers.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I marvel at how absolutely insane this offense is that it can out-score an 87 point defensive effort.

Boum and Miller have made an immeasurable difference. It is amazing.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Hunter shot and made that ill advised 3 pointer in1st half. That brought the house down.



Wasn't ill advised, they ran the play out of a timeout specifically for him because of how much the were sagging off of him.

Now the second one, wasn't great but he otherwise has another really solid game.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I feel like Miller asked Hunter his favorite spot for a 3, had him sit there, and gave him the green light to shoot it if they stayed way off him. I believe this was a called play for hunter

Didn't see your reply before I made mine, but you are absolutely right.

[D-West & PO-Z]

It was not an ill advised 3 pointer. Creighton was leaving him wide open. Joe & Bryon surmised that Miller called the play. When he is wide open and can step into the shot, he is actually a pretty decent shot.

Yep

[D-West & PO-Z]

Great take DW. I agree. Mental fortitude (damn that's tough to type after a few victory beers) is evident. And it's not a coincidence. I don't how far we go this year (I like our chances) but think about the next 5+ years or so. Yep, I'm pretty freakin mentally excited!

Exactly. Year 1 (Part II) is off to a much faster start than I anticipated but can you imagine what he does with this program moving forward? CANNOT WAIT!

[MADXSTER]

This Xavier team is more fun to watch than BYU any day. Mic drop

[Masterofreality]

Schierman 25. Colby 20. Almost a standoff.
Boum 26 points. Nembhard 17.
Nunge and Kalkbrenner both 15.
BUT! Xavier 17 bench points (Hunter 12, Claude 5.) Creighton 3.
There is your difference.
Dub

[D-West & PO-Z]

Schierman 25. Colby 20. Almost a standoff.
Boum 26 points. Nembhard 17.
Nunge and Kalkbrenner both 15.
BUT! Xavier 17 bench points (Hunter 12, Claude 5.) Creighton 3.
There is your difference.
Dub

We had more second chance points as well, which especially at the end ended up pretty big.

Hunter and Claude though, coming up big.

[Masterofreality]

Sean on the postgame.
“My guys need to know when to give the ball up. You have a 90% free throw shooter. Give it up!!”
He and Boum were not happy with Free holding on to the ball at the end.
That WILL be addressed.
And Edit:
This is now twice that Colby Jones has had to go 1-1 on defense vs the oppos best offensive player in winning time late. Colby is 2-0.
Cannot overstate.

[SemajParlor]

This team has reminded me of why I love Xavier basketball so much. Something special is brewing.

[XUGRAD80]

Exactly. Year 1 (Part II) is off to a much faster start than I anticipated but can you imagine what he does with this program moving forward? CANNOT WAIT!

This^^^^

Let’s remember that Miller is doing all of this with another coaches roster (other than SB). It will be very interesting to see what happens when he gets his own recruits in, and when the younger players have had a chance to develop under his system for a couple of years. I have hope again and we can now talk about WHEN, and not just if, again.

[xuphan]

This^^^^

Let’s remember that Miller is doing all of this with another coaches roster (other than SB). It will be very interesting to see what happens when he gets his own recruits in, and when the younger players have had a chance to develop under his system for a couple of years. I have hope again and we can now talk about WHEN, and not just if, again.

So refreshing to watch this style of Xavier basketball. Surprised Creighton has lost so many games so far this year. They seemed pretty good last night.

[xukeith]

This^^^^

Let’s remember that Miller is doing all of this with another coaches roster (other than SB). It will be very interesting to see what happens when he gets his own recruits in, and when the younger players have had a chance to develop under his system for a couple of years. I have hope again and we can now talk about WHEN, and not just if, again.

I imagine in a couple years Miller's team will be top 20 defensively.

[bleedXblue]

One of the best games ever at the 'tas!

without question

[bleedXblue]

Hunter shot and made that ill advised 3 pointer in1st half. That brought the house down.

Maybe Freemantle can have an awesome game Sunday. It is his turn.

Why didn't the turnover that Boum dribbled off his hand count as a turnover?

it looked like the ball was tipped before he had a chance to catch it

[Lamont Sanford]

Was a fake report on twitter by a fake reporter.

Damn Russian bots strike again! Or maybe it was just a disgraced CNN reporter.

[Lamont Sanford]

Anyone else getting slightly nervous that Miller only played 7 guys last night? No Kraft, no Miles, no Edwards. This can't be good for our five starters to be logging serious minutes this early in January.

[Xville]

So refreshing to watch this style of Xavier basketball. Surprised Creighton has lost so many games so far this year. They seemed pretty good last night.

Amen regarding watching Xavier this year—so refreshing and love that as others have said, they don’t wilt. The defense irks me but if x keeps out scoring people, I guess it doesn’t matter lol.

In regards to creighton, not having kalkbrenner for all those games killed them record wise. They are a completely different team with him.

[Xville]

Anyone else getting slightly nervous that Miller only played 7 guys last night? No Kraft, no Miles, no Edwards. This can't be good for our five starters to be logging serious minutes this early in January.

I’d like to see one more guy assert himself as the eight, but if it doesn’t happen, x just has to roll with it. Most teams go about 8 deep, so if x only goes 7, I’m not that concerned. Hopefully after Marquette, x can give the starters a bit of a break with gtown and DePaul up next.

[webxu]

It would be nice if Tandy could spell Boum for 5-8 mins a game

[bleedXblue]

Anyone else getting slightly nervous that Miller only played 7 guys last night? No Kraft, no Miles, no Edwards. This can't be good for our five starters to be logging serious minutes this early in January.

You would think that Edwards, Miles or Tucker could play 5-8 meaningful minutes. I guess not.

[Smails]

What a great environment last night. The crowd actually started out kind of lame IMO, but really kicked it into gear in the 2nd half. The students were great the whole time. My observations:

In addition to running some great sets, Creighton also made some incredibly difficult, contested shots. They are an absolute load offensively.

Kalkbrenner is an absolute game changer. We missed several shots within 5 feet due to his presence and when he's on offense our bigs can't lend any help on the driver because it becomes an automatic lob dunk.

Claude took a big step forward tonight, Played with confidence on offense and defended like crazy late in the game. I hope he now knows he can play with the big boys.

McDermott is constantly working the refs..I mean it's non-stop. He spent almost an entire TV timeout in a conversation with one of the refs. For the life of me I don't know why the refs give some of these coaches an audience for 2-3 minutes at a time. Drives me nuts.

If we can somehow get Craft or Tandy to give us 5-7-9 minutes/game that would be huge

Souley Boom is about as cool as they come. The guy just gets it

[D-West & PO-Z]

Anyone else getting slightly nervous that Miller only played 7 guys last night? No Kraft, no Miles, no Edwards. This can't be good for our five starters to be logging serious minutes this early in January.


It would be nice if Tandy could spell Boum for 5-8 mins a game

I don't know how many minutes it was but yesterday at one point Miller had Nunge, Free, and Hunter on the floor together. Doing that for a few mins every once in a while (if you can get away with it) could help spell Boum and Colby some.

[bleedXblue]

How in the hell does Creighton have 8 losses? I know Kalk was out for a few games, but damn that just doesn't make any sense. They're still 26 in the NET which is impressive.

[XUGRAD80]

Anyone else getting slightly nervous that Miller only played 7 guys last night? No Kraft, no Miles, no Edwards. This can't be good for our five starters to be logging serious minutes this early in January.

The possibility of the team getting worn down is probably a concern of everyone here, and the coaches. However, it is important to look at the numbers too.

Last night Dez actually played more minutes than Kunkle. 24-22. Hunter also played a full 20 minutes. Free played 28 minutes, Nunge played 30. In fact, between Hunter and Claude they played 44 minutes. The subs for Creighton (4) played a total of 22 minutes. The starters for X played a total of 156 minutes. The Bluejay starters played a total of 178 minutes. I wonder who was more worn down at the end? Miller also seems to be very good at stealing his players an extra minute or two of rest every game by making a substitution just before one of the scheduled TV timeouts.

I also looked at the UConn-Marq. game from last night. Marquette's subs (4) played a total of 46 minutes, their starters played a total of 154 minutes. So, they went 9 deep and their starters only played 2 total less minutes than the X starters.

I realize that this is only looking at 2 games, and just comparing 2 different teams, but I'm going to trust that Miller knows what he is doing.

[Muskie]

I really like that Claude finally attached the rim. He's got to take more shots.

[MADXSTER]

The possibility of the team getting worn down is probably a concern of everyone here, and the coaches. However, it is important to look at the numbers too.

Last night Dez actually played more minutes than Kunkle. 24-22. Hunter also played a full 20 minutes. Free played 28 minutes, Nunge played 30. In fact, between Hunter and Claude they played 44 minutes. The subs for Creighton (4) played a total of 22 minutes. The starters for X played a total of 156 minutes. The Bluejay starters played a total of 178 minutes. I wonder who was more worn down at the end? Miller also seems to be very good at stealing his players an extra minute or two of rest every game by making a substitution just before one of the scheduled TV timeouts.

I also looked at the UConn-Marq. game from last night. Marquette's subs (4) played a total of 46 minutes, their starters played a total of 154 minutes. So, they went 9 deep and their starters only played 2 total less minutes than the X starters.

I realize that this is only looking at 2 games, and just comparing 2 different teams, but I'm going to trust that Miller knows what he is doing.

REPS on the rundown but the man is holding me back.

[MADXSTER]

I really like that Claude finally attached the rim. He's got to take more shots.

Agree. He may still be learning the difference between a good shot and a F*&ked up shot.

[American X]

Very glad to see Colby back with an All-BE type game (despite a couple silly turnovers).

Rough game for Kunkel. I have had my fill of him throwing the ball into the side of the rim or to the other team. Find a teammate or a better shot. Got spun around on defense, but thankfully Claude stepped into the breach.

Strange game for Freemantle, kind of the reverse of Saturday against Villanova. He started with the three then nothing went in. I don't think he took bad shots, just a lid on the basket. Maybe some credit to Kalkbrenner as a factor. Still had 10 boards and 5 assists.

[Masterofreality]

The possibility of the team getting worn down is probably a concern of everyone here, and the coaches. However, it is important to look at the numbers too.

Last night Dez actually played more minutes than Kunkle. 24-22. Hunter also played a full 20 minutes. Free played 28 minutes, Nunge played 30. In fact, between Hunter and Claude they played 44 minutes. The subs for Creighton (4) played a total of 22 minutes. The starters for X played a total of 156 minutes. The Bluejay starters played a total of 178 minutes. I wonder who was more worn down at the end? Miller also seems to be very good at stealing his players an extra minute or two of rest every game by making a substitution just before one of the scheduled TV timeouts.

I also looked at the UConn-Marq. game from last night. Marquette's subs (4) played a total of 46 minutes, their starters played a total of 154 minutes. So, they went 9 deep and their starters only played 2 total less minutes than the X starters.

I realize that this is only looking at 2 games, and just comparing 2 different teams, but I'm going to trust that Miller knows what he is doing.

This is outstanding analysis! Great post 80!!
And yeah. Sean does a masterful job shuffling. So refreshing vs the formulaic scripted sub pattern of the last 4 years, but when you are locked into a stat sheet and not the game flow itself you’d get that.
Sean knows how to steal rest minutes. There was one point around a TV timeout when Kunk, Claude, Colby Hunter & (I think) Free were out there and it was OK. Claude is gradually getting it and his defense with his long arms was a problem for Creighton.

I think we are seeing the start (continuation?) of a real on court rivalry with Creighton. But it’s a healthy one. McDermott is a good guy and a great coach. Not a troll at all, and I find Creighton fan to be rabid but respectful and actually fun. They aren’t trolls either. I think it’s because we both come from the same place- low conference to High Major and we both appreciate the journey & result. I’m sure in 2009, Creighton fan couldn’t imagine playing in The Garden in the Big East. Two midwestern Catholic outposts now in the Big Time!
Sean Miller vs Greg McDermott is gonna be fun to watch…for years!

[Blue Blooded-05]

Stealing minutes in game is part of it. However, this doesn't solve the issue of tiring out late in the season. I admit I am hyper aware of this after watching Steele's teams tire out every single year.

I am in the camp that trusts Sean knows what he's doing and has no problem ratcheting down practice tempo if needed.

Conspiracy Theory Alert: If we continue along this trajectory and secure a top-4 seed, I wouldn't be surprised to see this team bow out of the Big East Tournament early. Those of us that remember Sean's first stint might remember 2nd round losses in the A10 Tourney in '08 (St. Joes) and '09 (Temple). Not on purpose, of course. But both opponents happened to be at-large bids in the NCAA Tournament and the losses clearly didn't hurt our eventual 3 & 4 seeds, respectively. Just saying.

[drudy23]

Stealing minutes in game is part of it. However, this doesn't solve the issue of tiring out late in the season. I admit I am hyper aware of this after watching Steele's teams tire out every single year.

I am in the camp that trusts Sean knows what he's doing and has no problem ratcheting down practice tempo if needed.

Conspiracy Theory Alert: If we continue along this trajectory and secure a top-4 seed, I wouldn't be surprised to see this team bow out of the Big East Tournament early. Those of us that remember Sean's first stint might remember 2nd round losses in the A10 Tourney in '08 (St. Joes) and '09 (Temple). Not on purpose, of course. But both opponents happened to be at-large bids in the NCAA Tournament and the losses clearly didn't hurt our eventual 3 & 4 seeds, respectively. Just saying.

The problem with the end of year downfalls under Steele wasn't fatigue.

It was superior in-conference coaches completely out-coaching him.

[muskiefan82]

The problem with the end of year downfalls under Steele wasn't fatigue.

It was superior in-conference coaches completely out-coaching him.

Yes. X may lose a game or two the rest of this year, but with Miller at the helm they have a shot to win EVERY game they play. Things are fun again.

[D-West & PO-Z]

The problem with the end of year downfalls under Steele wasn't fatigue.

It was superior in-conference coaches completely out-coaching him.

100%

[bleedXblue]

The problem with the end of year downfalls under Steele wasn't fatigue.

It was superior in-conference coaches completely out-coaching him.

To be fair, it was more his incompetence than superior coaching

WE ALL KNEW shot selection was atrocious and completely out of control his entire tenure.

[Masterofreality]

The problem with the end of year downfalls under Steele wasn't fatigue.

It was superior in-conference coaches completely out-coaching him.

And plenty of scouting tape being available.
It goes back to Sean being less formulaic vs a rigid plan on a sheet and never adjusting.

[Xavier]

I don't know how many minutes it was but yesterday at one point Miller had Nunge, Free, and Hunter on the floor together. Doing that for a few mins every once in a while (if you can get away with it) could help spell Boum and Colby some.

I figured he went that route for two reasons. Kunkel was getting abused on Defense- and he had 3 fouls. I don’t know if you can run that much without Colby and Boum. I still am ok with Kunkel playing (he generally helps spread offense out and plays within the flow) but Xville is right. Every year it looks like Kunkel turned the corner then conference play comes and he just isn’t the same guy. We need him to get back to form.

[muskiefan82]

And plenty of scouting tape being available.
It goes back to Sean being less formulaic vs a rigid plan on a sheet and never adjusting.

YES!!! YES!!! and YES!!! COACH MILLER actually sees what is working and what isn't and sets the team up for success. That post timeout drive by Colby on the baseline for a layup was beautiful and I won't even mention the called play for Hunter to shoot that 3 near the end of the 1st half. Dude is a next level coach and it is so good to see that again.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I figured he went that route for two reasons. Kunkel was getting abused on Defense- and he had 3 fouls. I don’t know if you can run that much without Colby and Boum. I still am ok with Kunkel playing (he generally helps spread offense out and plays within the flow) but Xville is right. Every year it looks like Kunkel turned the corner then conference play comes and he just isn’t the same guy. We need him to get back to form.

Interestingly enough Kunkel's stats are pretty identical non conference to BE:

Non Conf _____________ BE
26.1 mins/gm _________ 30.8 mins/gm
10.3 pts/gm _________ 9.5 pts/gm
1.8 reb/gm _________ 2.7 reb/gm
2.4 assts/gm _______ 2.2 assts/gm
1.2 stl/gm _________ 0.7 stl/gm
1.6 turnovers/gm _____ 2.3 turnovers/gm
39.5% 3pt _________ 40.0% 3pt
48.6% FG _________ 41.9% FG

More turnovers, which drives me freaking crazy lately. Way worse FG% though, although 3pt% is basically the same.

I do think Calude continuing to improve and stealing some of Kunkel's minutes would be a good thing for this team.

But the narrative that Kunkel has had some huge dip in BE play is not really supported by the stats. Except for maybe FG%. Finishing at the rim is tough for him, probably tougher in the BE.

[muskiefan82]

Maybe the difference is that when he makes a mistake in BE play, it more often results in the other team scoring. Last night, he had two turnovers that turned into 3 pointers. a minimum 5 point swing. Twice. Against Morgan St., maybe they get nothing from the turnover. I think the errors just stand out more because the competition is better. Maybe.

[Xville]

Interestingly enough Kunkel's stats are pretty identical non conference to BE:

Non Conf _________ BE
26.1 mins/gm _________ 30.8 mins/gm
10.3 pts/gm _________ 9.5 pts/gm
1.8 reb/gm _________ 2.7 reb/gm
2.4 assts/gm _________ 2.2 assts/gm
1.2 stl/gm _________ 0.7 stl/gm
1.6 turnovers/gm _________ 2.3 turnovers/gm
39.5% 3pt _________ 40.0% 3pt
48.6% FG _________ 41.9% FG

More turnovers, which drives me freaking crazy lately. Way worse FG% though, although 3pt% is basically the same.

I do think Calude continuing to improve and stealing some of Kunkel's minutes would be a good thing for this team.

But the narrative that Kunkel has had some huge dip in BE play is not really supported by the stats. Except for maybe FG%. Finishing at the rim is tough for him, probably tougher in the BE.

This is where stats can be misleading… do this without the outlier that is the gtown game. It’s also a very small sample size. Do these numbers over the past three seasons, and I think the stats will bear out what most of our eyes tell us.

[Caveat]

I really like that Claude finally attached the rim. He's got to take more shots.

100%

The offense bogs down a bit in the half court with Hunter and Claude both in the game because both have been coached (correctly, IMO) to look to distribute first before shooting or scoring. Creighton was daring both of them to shoot from outside and packing the defense down deep to protect the rim.

The offense can still score, but it's on a lot of second-chance opportunities generated by Hunter and "hustle buckets" v. the creating good shoots. That's not sustainable long term -- and it's going to mean Claude needs to provide something offensively when he's in the game. I'm hoping that, as he gains confidence from the coaching staff for his defense, he'll also start to be a bit more aggressive and look to create offense. Getting points from him and forcing opposing defenses to respect his game would be huge.

[D-West & PO-Z]

This is where stats can be misleading… do this without the outlier that is the gtown game. It’s also a very small sample size. Do these numbers over the past three seasons, and I think the stats will bear out what most of our eyes tell us.

true, but I think that is just kind of who he is as a player too. He is streaky. He has terrible and great games in the non conference too. And he went 3 of 4 from three against Nova. It just is who he is, I don't think it is really a BE thing.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Maybe the difference is that when he makes a mistake in BE play, it more often results in the other team scoring. Last night, he had two turnovers that turned into 3 pointers. a minimum 5 point swing. Twice. Against Morgan St., maybe they get nothing from the turnover. I think the errors just stand out more because the competition is better. Maybe.

I could buy this argument. Definitely might be something there. He does have 0.7 more turnovers per game in BE play, so he is turning it over more, and I could see an argument that teams in BE will capitalize on that more frequently.

I also think he already has trouble scoring at the rim that gets amplified in the BE, but I don't think he 3 point FG% is affected by BE play that much.

[Caveat]

I could buy this argument. Definitely might be something there. He does have 0.7 more turnovers per game in BE play, so he is turning it over more, and I could see an argument that teams in BE will capitalize on that more frequently.

I also think he already has trouble scoring at the rim that gets amplified in the BE, but I don't think he 3 point FG% is affected by BE play that much.

Kunkel *really* struggles getting to the basket when there's even an above-average rim protector on the floor. He doesn't have the extra few shots in his arsenal that Jones & Boum do for these types of situations.

[D-West & PO-Z]

This is where stats can be misleading… do this without the outlier that is the gtown game. It’s also a very small sample size. Do these numbers over the past three seasons, and I think the stats will bear out what most of our eyes tell us.

I think anything from the past is going to be skewed to some degree based on our previous coach and his game plans and inability to adjust etc.

But you may be right. I do think it is harder for Kunkel to score at the rim in the BE, which is already hard for him to do anyway.

Miller seems to LOVE Kunkel. Kunkel has been driving me crazy lately. I do think he is an important piece but I hope Claude can keep improving and eat into some of his mins.

[drudy23]

I don't where the thread is, and I'm not going to look for it, but as bad as our shooting numbers were last year, they absolutely cratered when we entered Big East play (an analysis showed this last year.) When you play good teams and you can't execute, shots get harder, especially for players like Kunkel, who is often overmatched physically with his frame. We literally showed little restraint in shooting bad shots all of last year, but that problem only got worse when we were shooting those bad shots over bigger and stronger players in conference play.

In an efficient offense, it becomes less of a concern because your efficiency leads to better looks for your shooters. That is happening this year.

[muskiefan82]

Kunkel also needs to look at himself and then at Kalkbrenner and recognize that MAYBE attacking the rim against him is not the best idea.

[Xville]

I think anything from the past is going to be skewed to some degree based on our previous coach and his game plans and inability to adjust etc.

But you may be right. I do think it is harder for Kunkel to score at the rim in the BE, which is already hard for him to do anyway.

Miller seems to LOVE Kunkel. Kunkel has been driving me crazy lately. I do think he is an important piece but I hope Claude can keep improving and eat into some of his mins.

Certainly fair regarding Steele… maybe all our players would bear that out lol.

I don’t understand the love affair that Steele and miller seem to have for the guy. I think he’s a good role player at this level, a starter at the a10.. maybe it’s just that the coaches believe they don’t have anyone else which may be fair.

[drudy23]

Kunkel also needs to look at himself and then at Kalkbrenner and recognize that MAYBE attacking the rim against him is not the best idea.

Kunkel LOVES to show he can make difficult shots, which he can.

But just because you CAN make it, doesn't mean you should attempt it in certain situations. Comes down to decision making and picking your spots.

[noteggs]

Well it’s confirmed ville, indeed a head butt!

https://twitter.com/akunk05/status/1613378345198317569?s=42&t=cHaNTKJt655QcCA9OcRUzQ

[Three Point Pete]

How in the hell does Creighton have 8 losses? I know Kalk was out for a few games, but damn that just doesn't make any sense. They're still 26 in the NET which is impressive.Well, like you posted, quick answer is they lost Kalkbrenner after a 2 point loss @Arizona, they went into a dive until he came back. Looking at yesterday's effort they were formidable with everyone able to play.The Jays did not loose like we whipped them, they just ran out of time. Miller said they were the best squad we played so far. Going forward, they get Providence X UConn and Marq at home and it wouldn't surprise me if they win out.






Sent from my SM-A326U using Tapatalk

[xudash]

Well it’s confirmed ville, indeed a head butt!

https://twitter.com/akunk05/status/1613378345198317569?s=42&t=cHaNTKJt655QcCA9OcRUzQ

Thanks for sharing that.

Scrolling through that entire Twitter link just made my day.

Perhaps Kunkel is a leader and a glue guy. He certainly isn't a typical BE athlete. He does get a little carried away at times. But he does have his positive moments on the court.

When it is all said and done, at this point based upon what we've seen from and know about Coach Miller, I'm going to go with whatever Coach says.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Kunkel LOVES to show he can make difficult shots, which he can.

But just because you CAN make it, doesn't mean you should attempt it in certain situations. Comes down to decision making and picking your spots.

Sure he can make difficult shots, but I don't think he is particularly good at it.

I think we all joke (but also half serious) that Xavier seems to miss more shots around the rim than any team in the country, and Kunkel is one of the leaders in the clubhouse in that regard on this team.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Kunkel also needs to look at himself and then at Kalkbrenner and recognize that MAYBE attacking the rim against him is not the best idea.

There is a whole school of coaching thought that says the way to play a shot blocker is to attack him head-on and keep attacking.

While I'm usually understanding that posters here have differing opinions on players, I don't get the angst around Kunkel. All of our players, Soully excluded, have inconsistencies and weaknesses. Kunkel does as well. But he is a hard-nosed competitor who will never back down. Make a few mistakes maybe. Who doesn't? Kunel is a true gamer. That's why Miller head butted him and that's why Miller loves him. Just watching Kunkel, I bet he's a helluva a positive influence in the locker room too.

The one thing I do not like about him is that scuffy little puny attempt for a beard.

However, Soully is perfect. With three seconds left last night and Xavier breaking the huddle to send Soully to the free throw line, I sat up in section 105 with face buried in my hands and my elbows down between my shaking knees. I couldn't watch. Then, my seventy-one-year-old wife bent down and whispered in my ear........"don't worry dear, money".

[muskiefan82]

Thye one thing I do not like about him is that scuffy little puny attempt for a beard.



LOL. True

[Cincypunk.org]

Can someone explain why Tandy canÂ’t get 5-7 minutes a game? People say he is bad defensively, but he looks good to me when he actually sees the floor (minus his 2 minute UC debacle.)

[GoMuskies]

Our defense is already awfui. it's the worst among the top 38 teams in the country (and #90 overall) according to KenPom. Is Tandy that much worse than the defenders who ARE playing?

[Xville]

Tandy must be the worst practice player known to man or his attitude sucks, because when he is in games, for the most part he looks just fine on the offensive and defensive side of the ball---enough to get 5-7 minutes to spell some guys. Maybe Miller believes the team just doesn't need those minutes taken up who knows.

[Xavier]

I think he looks lost on offense and stands around too much. Doesn’t run and flow with the offense- but he has been a good spot up shooter. But i think he should be fine for 5-7 min.

Kyky, edwards and miles all got a few shots. And honestly I thought each showed little flashes. It’s been a tough schedule, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them open up things in February with easier schedule.

[GoMuskies]

I also though Craft was really coming around in those Portland games. Was more assertive and looked like he was getting more comfortable. I thought he was going to get a couple of minutes here and there all year.

Apparently I was incorrect in that assessment!

[paulxu]

Then, my seventy-one-year-old wife bent down and whispered in my ear........"don't worry dear, money".

My wife is a little older. She says that too.
When she's headed into a store with the credit card.

[xukeith]

Edwards, Tandy, Craft and Miles all had ample opportunity to show their skill and contribution. Miller thinks the best 7 are ideal especially against top 4 BE teams.
Top 7 players have been solid. I won't suggest changing anything with the rotation. I think Miller knows what he is doing.

Against DePaul, Georgetown and Butler, I imagine we will see more bench action from Edwards, Craft and Tandy albeit 5-6 minutes each.

I assume we all want X to win. We all want the best combinations of players playing.

[xuwillie]

Tandy must be the worst practice player known to man or his attitude sucks, because when he is in games, for the most part he looks just fine on the offensive and defensive side of the ball---enough to get 5-7 minutes to spell some guys. Maybe Miller believes the team just doesn't need those minutes taken up who knows.

Agree, don't see much if any drop off between him and Kunkel. Kunkels defense is awful for the most part

[X Factor]

Sure he can make difficult shots, but I don't think he is particularly good at it.

I think we all joke (but also half serious) that Xavier seems to miss more shots around the rim than any team in the country, and Kunkel is one of the leaders in the clubhouse in that regard on this team.

https://www.barttorvik.com/team.php?team=Xavier&year=2023

According to Bart Torvik, this isn't true.

Kunkel is shooting 56% (18-32) from "Close 2" and 50" (10-20) from "Far 2".

As a team, X is shooting 64% (277-433) from "Close 2" and 42% (114-274) from "Far 2".

Xavier has been pretty good at finishing around the rim this year, Kunkel included considering the difficulty of some of his shots.

[MADXSTER]

Seems like everyone here wants to jump on the Kunkel bash train but no one is talking about the horrendous defense of Colby last night. Yes Colby had the final stop but during the game he was just bad. Had to be his worst defensive effort of the season. I'm not wanting people to jump on Colby at all but did you guys really watch the game last night?

[Xville]

Seems like everyone here wants to jump on the Kunkel bash train but no one is talking about the horrendous defense of Colby last night. Yes Colby had the final stop but during the game he was just bad. Had to be his worst defensive effort of the season. I'm not wanting people to jump on Colby at all but did you guys really watch the game last night?

Yeah and he was terrible defensively. Without Claude. X loses that game because Baylor was making Colby look stupid. Still love me some Colby. I also don’t mean to bash Kunkel, I just don’t think he is a be starter. Maybe that’s bashing him, I dunno.

[xukeith]

If X gets to a 16-4 BE record and wins or comes in 2nd place in BE tourney, I believe X will have a strong case for a 2 seed.

[bjf123]

How in the hell does Creighton have 8 losses? I know Kalk was out for a few games, but damn that just doesn't make any sense. They're still 26 in the NET which is impressive.

I was wondering the same thing. They have too much talent for that. But, you are your record so……


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[X-band '01]

Scheierman had 25 points, but I don't think he scored for the last 8-10 minutes of the game. Whatever adjustments the coaches made seemed to work.

If I were a Creighton fan, I'd be wondering why he was inbounding on the final play of the game stationary against Nunge. Wouldn't he have been able to run the baseline after a made FT? It was the 2nd time that Nunge deflected the ball on an inbounds play to end the game (just like UC).

[D-West & PO-Z]

https://www.barttorvik.com/team.php?team=Xavier&year=2023

According to Bart Torvik, this isn't true.

Kunkel is shooting 56% (18-32) from "Close 2" and 50" (10-20) from "Far 2".

As a team, X is shooting 64% (277-433) from "Close 2" and 42% (114-274) from "Far 2".

Xavier has been pretty good at finishing around the rim this year, Kunkel included considering the difficulty of some of his shots.

Well he is shooting 46% on the year from the field. Only better than Claude of regular contributors. And that is with shooting 40% from 3 on the year.

Since BE play he is shooting 41.9% from the field. That is also with shooting 40% from 3.

So where is the disconnect? He just takes so many more 3's the 40%, despite being good, is dragging his FG% so far down?

As I am typing, my question is what is the average FG% from "close 2" in college basketball? I am guessing 56% isn't as good as you'd think.

Don't want to hate on Kunk (I was defending him earlier) but while watching, he seems to miss a lot in the lane. He misses 44% of the time from "close 2". Again, what is the average? I bet it is higher than 56%. I am sure everyone wishes he had the layup against IU back to do again.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Seems like everyone here wants to jump on the Kunkel bash train but no one is talking about the horrendous defense of Colby last night. Yes Colby had the final stop but during the game he was just bad. Had to be his worst defensive effort of the season. I'm not wanting people to jump on Colby at all but did you guys really watch the game last night?

Its a long thread so you may not have read it, but I read several people earlier in the thread discussing Colby's bad D. He did come through in the clutch again though.

[drudy23]

For all of the Colby defense bashers, guarding a 6'7 elite shooter who can also play in the post is no easy task, especially when that elite shooter gets cookin.

Yes, there were times when he was left open (likely an assignment issue), but when guys with that kind of shooting talent get going, even the best defenders will struggle.

When a guy can catch on the run, stop on a dime, lean into a 25 footer and hit nothing but net, he's a different breed. He's the best shooter in the Big East. Oh yeah, did I mention he's 6'7?

Tough audience.

[MADXSTER]

No, I've read the whole thread and yes I know you were defending him.

It's just that the thread was about the Creighton win and rapidly turned into a bash Kunkel thread. Kunkel was not the issue in this game(thread). Colby on the other hand had a very very bad defensive game but had an awesome offensive game. My take is if you want to start a bash Kunkel thread then do just that.

I'm not a Pro/Con Kunkel but I also realize that not all five starters are going to be stars. He plays his role. He's a threat from three and makes his guy chase him around the court. He also chases his guy on D pretty damn good. He's not so good defending the drive but none of our guys are all that great in that department. He's also like another guard who can handle the ball and his passes into the paint are pretty good. He doesn't force many bad shots but he definitely is a streaky shooter. I also think he gets intimidated by some of the big trees inside. IMO he's like having a coach on the floor meaning that he's a high IQ player. Some of his turnovers are due to his size but you take the good with the bad.

In games which Kunkel is getting bullied due to size, then that's when Claude should be playing.

[drudy23]

[QUOTE=MADXSTER;749029]Colby on the other hand had a very very bad defensive game/QUOTE]

Read above.

His own coach even defended his defense. Just because a guy got 25 doesn't mean his defense sucked. Bailey was just cookin - and when that happens, few people can stop it.

Elite offense always trumps good defense. Sometimes guys just go off and you're at their mercy, even when playing good defense.

[MADXSTER]

For all of the Colby defense bashers, guarding a 6'7 elite shooter who can also play in the post is no easy task, especially when that elite shooter gets cookin.

Yes, there were times when he was left open (likely an assignment issue), but when guys with that kind of shooting talent get going, even the best defenders will struggle.

When a guy can catch on the run, stop on a dime, lean into a 25 footer and hit nothing but net, he's a different breed. He's the best shooter in the Big East. Oh yeah, did I mention he's 6'7?

Tough audience.

TBH think I'm the only one who criticized Colby. IMO last night he played bad D. He got burnt twice on one drive to the basket. I'll re-watch the game tonight. Maybe I'll change my mind but I doubt it.

[XU-PA]

Scheierman had 25 points, but I don't think he scored for the last 8-10 minutes of the game. Whatever adjustments the coaches made seemed to work.

If I were a Creighton fan, I'd be wondering why he was inbounding on the final play of the game stationary against Nunge. Wouldn't he have been able to run the baseline after a made FT? It was the 2nd time that Nunge deflected the ball on an inbounds play to end the game (just like UC).

9 1/2 minutes left, he gut his last shot.
Several times later, in between bad misses, he looked very very tired. Their big was also. We just wore them down

[drudy23]

TBH think I'm the only one who criticized Colby. IMO last night he played bad D. He got burnt twice on one drive to the basket. I'll re-watch the game tonight. Maybe I'll change my mind but I doubt it.

EVERYONE gets beat on the defensive end from time to time. The other team has good players too. You cannot expect a player to never get beat.

Kyle Korver got 32 on X one night - and the defense was really good. That's how awesome he was that night. Sometimes the other guy just plays awesome.

Is anyone really concerned about Colby's defense?

[Xville]

For all of the Colby defense bashers, guarding a 6'7 elite shooter who can also play in the post is no easy task, especially when that elite shooter gets cookin.

Yes, there were times when he was left open (likely an assignment issue), but when guys with that kind of shooting talent get going, even the best defenders will struggle.

When a guy can catch on the run, stop on a dime, lean into a 25 footer and hit nothing but net, he's a different breed. He's the best shooter in the Big East. Oh yeah, did I mention he's 6'7?

Tough audience.

All of this is true, but our 6’5 freshman shut him down the last ten minutes of the game. Colby isn’t great defensively, he’s typically ok but he needs to work on it if he wants to play in the league, and I love Colby

[MADXSTER]

EVERYONE gets beat on the defensive end from time to time. The other team has good players too. You cannot expect a player to never get beat.

Kyle Korver got 32 on X one night - and the defense was really good. That's how awesome he was that night. Sometimes the other guy just plays awesome.

EVERYONE has a bad defensive night. Last night was Colby's night. Miller even said " And I'll tell you, this wasn't Colby's best defensive night. It wasn't." he goes on to credit the good Creighton players then "I don't think that he was at the (defensive)level that he usually is but on that last play..." This was towards the end of the post game show.

Once again, will re-watch the game tonight. Maybe I'll change my mind.

[Mel Cooley XU'81]

Kyle Korver . . . . . .

My Guy.

[Xavier]

[QUOTE=MADXSTER;749029]Colby on the other hand had a very very bad defensive game/QUOTE]

Read above.

His own coach even defended his defense. Just because a guy got 25 doesn't mean his defense sucked. Bailey was just cookin - and when that happens, few people can stop it.

Elite offense always trumps good defense. Sometimes guys just go off and you're at their mercy, even when playing good defense.

I thought Sean said in postgame something along the line of it wasn’t one of his better nights on D. Maybe I misheard that.

[drudy23]

The point in all of this is - Colby or Kunkel hasn't been consistently bad enough to call them out. Just seemed odd we had a page and a half of that after a great win. So I tried to even it out a bit.

[Xville]

It was a great win, and just a great game to watch.

Colby was bad on defense last night, and kunkel has been extremely inconsistent in big East play and has a history of declining production once big East play begins.

Both of these things can be true. I don’t see it as bashing, I see it as reality.

Overall, The team is playing great.. they are undefeated in be play and it’s refreshing to watch a Xavier game this year and not want to throw the remote across the room on a consistent basis.

[Xavier]

Yep. It’s just so refreshing having Miller back. I know he has said he really wants two guards that can handle the ball on court at all times. Do you think this will be the offensive style moving forward or will he put more emphasis on 3 shooting?

[xavierj]

All of this is true, but our 6’5 freshman shut him down the last ten minutes of the game. Colby isn’t great defensively, he’s typically ok but he needs to work on it if he wants to play in the league, and I love Colby

This is true with Colby. He is pretty good defensively when he is dialed in but he can get lazy and make some mistakes defensively that cost him at times, but he has the tools to be a really good defender at the next level. He has a lot of talent and if he puts it all together the sky is the limit for this team.

As for Kunkel he is what he is, streaky. That has been him against everyone this year. Plays lights out one game then struggles. Played well against Indiana and Duke this year and then kind of stunk agonist UC after the first part of the game. Was great against Nova, then struggled last night. He also needs to limit his turnovers. When he is on, he is on, when not he is not. Hopefully Sunday he is on.

[UCGRAD4X]

I think we are all (mostly?) pretty concerned with the defense. Offense is awesome so maybe we just "criticize" the D by comparison. We want X to be on top. So far so good, but to move forward, the defense needs to improve, for sure. If great offense trumps great defense, and it is much more likely to have an off shooting night than an off defense night, we could be in trouble come tourney time.

[profson]

I guess I have to withdraw my praise of Boum as the cause of his numbers must have been Nemdhart 's terrible defense.

[xukeith]

All of this is true, but our 6’5 freshman shut him down the last ten minutes of the game. Colby isn’t great defensively, he’s typically ok but he needs to work on it if he wants to play in the league, and I love Colby

Do you believe Claude shut #55 down for the ten minutes he played in second half? Dez did play good defense but #55 was far from "shut" down in 2nd half.

Part of it he was defended by Boum, Jones, Freemantle, and Claude at different times.

[Xville]

Do you believe Claude shut #55 down for the ten minutes he played in second half? Dez did play good defense but #55 was far from "shut" down in 2nd half.

Part of it he was defended by Boum, Jones, Freemantle, and Claude at different times.

Well, I said the last ten minutes of the game he was shut down, and from 9:56 on, he didn’t score another point. This coincides with when Claude began defending him, so yes I would say he shut him down.


I’ll have to rewatch to see if it was just Claude from then on ( I know Colby did the last play) but I specifically remember numerous points in those last minutes, Claude being on him

[xukeith]

Well, I said the last ten minutes of the game he was shut down, and from 9:56 on, he didn’t score another point. This coincides with when Claude began defending him, so yes I would say he shut him down.


I’ll have to rewatch to see if it was just Claude from then on ( I know Colby did the last play) but I specifically remember numerous points in those last minutes, Claude being on him
I remembered incorrectly . Scheierman did not score again in last 10 minutes. He did shoot and try . But he didn't score.

[MADXSTER]

The point in all of this is - Colby or Kunkel hasn't been consistently bad enough to call them out. Just seemed odd we had a page and a half of that after a great win. So I tried to even it out a bit.

Actually we had a page and a half of bashing Kunkel. I was the only one who criticized Colby and that was the only comment listed.

So after watching the game last night, I can say that Colby's defense was pretty darn good in the first half. At the beginning of the 2nd half he had 5 miscues in the first 4 1/2 minutes. One of which was leaving schierman to help on defense and schierman, all alone, buried a 3 from the corner. Miller told Colby to never leave 55 again. After that Colby really only had one minor miscue.

Also it was not Colby who got beat twice in one drive. It was Claude by Alexander. To my surprise was that the only one who really held Alexander in check was Hunter.

[paulxu]

Every thread should contain a minimum of one Kunkel bashing, and two Steele bashings.

[drudy23]

Every thread should contain a minimum of one Kunkel bashing, and two Steele bashings.

Easy on Kunks (unless he starts shooting ALOT of bad shots).

Fire away at Steele.

[Masterofreality]

Ima just gonna say this.
-Colby’s defense was subpar to COLBY. Still plenty respectable based on the talent he was guarding.
-Hunter did a nice job on both Alexander and Schierman when he had him a few times.
-Claude did a nice job, but Schierman had open looks in the last 10 minutes too. He missed them. Why? Some defense but I also postulate that Xavier’s D wore him down. He was not as strong in the last 10 as the first 30. I credit numerous guys who shadowed him for that.

Creighton is DAMN good on offense. You HAVE to give them credit. They will be a handful to anybody they play.

[Masterofreality]

Schierman going off again today. So far 13 of Creighton’s 24 points
I guess it wasn’t Colby’s defense after all.

[Xville]

Schierman going off again today. So far 13 of Creighton’s 24 points
I guess it wasn’t Colby’s defense after all.

Watch the first 5-7 minutes of the second half and then try to say that with a straight face.

Baylor is a great college player, and Colby’s d was crap. Both things can be true.

[Masterofreality]

Watch the first 5-7 minutes of the second half and then try to say that with a straight face.

Baylor is a great college player, and Colby’s d was crap. Both things can be true.

Respectfully, You’re an idiot.

This will be the last response you’ll ever get from me. (Note: I’ve watched the game 3 times)

[Xville]

Respectfully, You’re an idiot.

This will be the last response you’ll ever get from me. (Note: I’ve watched the game 3 times)

Respectfully, then you know little about basketball. Even miller said his defense wasn’t good. So I guess miller is an idiot too. I guess Colby got switched off of Baylor almost the rest of the game because of how good his defense was on him and miller didn’t want to show him up. You’re clueless.

Your screen name is so ironic

[Masterofreality]

Respectfully, then you know little about basketball. Even miller said his defense wasn’t good. So I guess miller is an idiot too.

Ok THIS is the last response to anything you post on this site.
I coached Basketball for 23 years and won over 300 games up to High School.
Yeah. I know “a little” about basketball.
#Blocked

[Xville]

Ok THIS is the last response to anything you post on this site.
I coached Basketball for 23 years and won over 300 games up to High School.
Yeah. I know “a little” about basketball.
#Blocked

Awww did I hurt someone’s feelings? I guess you know more than miller then. Mr. Master of whatever your opinion is. Tell me again how much of an insider you are, when every “ insider” tip you receive is always dead wrong.

Averaged about 13 wins a season… that’s Steele level.. congratulations

[Final4]

Ok THIS is the last response to anything you post on this site.
I coached Basketball for 23 years and won over 300 games up to High School.
Yeah. I know “a little” about basketball.
#Blocked

OMG MOR posting his resume again. Curious what "up to high school" means.