2023 Returnees

[OTRMUSKIE]

I have not seen any drama with Freemantle. He has been a huge benefit on X squad each year. Last year was an anomaly with his food screwing up with his conditioning and timing. He was clearly head of the team offensively this season. I recall Miller having Zach play pretty good defense this past January. He will be sorely missed and I hope he has 1 more year in him for X.

Let me remind you of some posters messages last season(and in 2021) proclaiming Freemantle was definitely transferring. I am sure Freemantle is no dummy and he sees the benefit of Miller coaching.

I am not a Calipari fan but I will give him credit for getting a frequent who's who of top basketball recruits agreeing to join Kentucky.

5 minutes in Sean’s Lexus will make one stay. I don’t believe free will leave that would just be stupid. The Beast is about to have 2 final 4 teams. Best league in the country. Also nova and UConn arnt going to the Big 12 . BEAST is the best league. Go Creighton, Duck Hurley.

[Xavier]

You lost me at Zach playing good defense.

[profson]

I don't follow the NBA but I have a question about Jones going in the late first round. Would it be beneficial for him to come back to X next year and develop more? Perhaps he could be a top 10-15 pick at that point. Is that reasonable or am I just uninformed?

I don’t think you understand the draft. One recent mock llldraft has him 16th. I think that is high but the point is that ALL those above him were freshmen, went to the development league directly from HS or are young foreigners. He is already old from an NBA perspective and a new young crop will leap him next year.

[XUGRAD80]

KY has a recruiting class that has 3 guards, a small forward, and a center. All of them are ranked in the top 22 by Rivals, with 4 of them being top 10. While it’s possible that Free could go there and fill a power forward spot, and bring some experience to the group, I wouldn’t bet the farm on that happening yet. Could easily just be wild speculation at this point. There’s a lot of that going around right now.

[Masterofreality]

Exactly what I’ve seen. His family seems to be a handful and was the main reason he didn’t rejoin the team

This is truth.

[Masterofreality]

I have not seen any drama with Freemantle.

You must have missed the fact that he was suspended from the squad for 2 weeks preseason?
Ummm, Drama, Thy Name is Freemantle.

As to the NBA talk, all you need to see is how much better our defense was without him in there. He’s Euro Pro at best.

[Xuperman]

Kriisa in Morgantown today visiting Thuggins.

[bleedXblue]

I don't see any circumstance where Zach stays. Any

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

I don't see any circumstance where Zach stays. Any

Can you elaborate?

[OTRMUSKIE]

Why on earth would Free leave? He is a starter for one of the best programs in college hoops. I guess if he can make more money at another school sure. It def won’t be for a facial hair company because his is awful.

[xavierj]

My guess with Zach is that he doesn’t see eye to eye with the coaching staff and what they want from him. I also guess doctors told him he could play and wait and have surgery after the season and he decided against that. I think Zach’s parents also want him to move on from Xavier. He gave Xavier four years and also see zero chance he returns. He did not travel with the team at all for the tournament which is also telling to me.

[JTG]

I don't know that Free ends up at UK. Cal and Sean are practically lifelong friends. I guess if Sean says take him, he goes. But I can't see Cal swiping Free without Sean's blessing.

[MHettel]

Based on body language, Free seems a little defiant, aloof, and standoffish. Maybe I’m wrong, but some recent narrative sure suggest some challenges in dealing with him.

I wonder if he was basically asked or told yo step away from the team.

He didn’t participate in senior night at all. Lots of possible reasons for that, including the possibility that he was planning to return. But also maybe he just had a sour attitude and decided to skip it, or maybe Miller made that call.

Honestly, free is a good player overall and I’d rather have him around as opposed to finding a quality replacement. But on the other hand we’ve seen guys over the years that had some rumors of behavior issues and they almost always seemed to derail themselves before the natural end of their career (Finn, Lyons, miles Davis).

In the event he DID come back, could you count on him? Big question to me

[MHettel]

I don't know that Free ends up at UK. Cal and Sean are practically lifelong friends. I guess if Sean says take him, he goes. But I can't see Cal swiping Free without Sean's blessing.

Yeah. Cause Coach Cal is known for not putting his own interest above all else. There is no blessing required if Free wants to leave. And neither Sean nor Cal expect it

[GoMuskies]

Cal and Sean are practically lifelong friends.

This is the meanest thing I've ever seen written on this board about Miller. Ouch.

[xudash]

Based on body language, Free seems a little defiant, aloof, and standoffish. Maybe I’m wrong, but some recent narrative sure suggest some challenges in dealing with him.

I wonder if he was basically asked or told yo step away from the team.

He didn’t participate in senior night at all. Lots of possible reasons for that, including the possibility that he was planning to return. But also maybe he just had a sour attitude and decided to skip it, or maybe Miller made that call.

Honestly, free is a good player overall and I’d rather have him around as opposed to finding a quality replacement. But on the other hand we’ve seen guys over the years that had some rumors of behavior issues and they almost always seemed to derail themselves before the natural end of their career (Finn, Lyons, miles Davis).

In the event he DID come back, could you count on him? Big question to me

We are sitting here on a Sunday afternoon, watching a couple of teams attempt to make it to the final four. One of those teams is a conference mate.

Every one of these Creighton kids strike me as being 100% all-in on Creighton.

if Fremantle does not want to be at Xavier, I do not want him at Xavier. The stakes are too high.

[MHettel]

We are sitting here on a Sunday afternoon, watching a couple of teams attempt to make it to the final four. One of those teams is a conference mate.

Every one of these Creighton kids strike me as being 100% all-in on Creighton.

if Fremantle does not want to be at Xavier, I do not want him at Xavier. The stakes are too high.

100%

[Xavier]

MHettel- the king of reading body language.

[MHettel]

MHettel- the king of reading body language.

Also, the king of sensing internet sarcasm

[XUGRAD80]

There’s a lot of anti-Freemantle speculation being posted up here. A year ago I might have joined in. But I thought that this past year he had become the player I thought he was going to be after his freshman year. He was performing at an all-league level for much of the season….remember his triple-double?….and looked to be pretty engaged with his teammates and coaches. As with ALL of the X players, there were times when he didn’t play some aspects of the game as well as we might have liked. But those occasions were rare. I didn’t see him sulking or disinterested in the huddles or dogging it at anytime. I really don’t get the hate that some are espousing in their posts. I’d love to have him back and would be excited to see it.

[noteggs]

Wrong thread- edit

[IM4X]

Before some start to lose confidence in Des’ ability to start next year, there is thing called freshman to sophomore leap. Yes he struggled with decision making/turnovers but showed flashes as being a well rounded player. His shooting should improve with a full off season with Sean.

Agree. He had a rough game against Texas, but so did Slouey, Colby and Jack. I am surprised some are so harsh about him. He is a legit talent and has stepped up and made a key basket or stop at times in games when his team really needed it. He’s had freshman mistakes and he’s played like a veteran at times. I feel confident he’ll keep getting better and his role will keep growing.

[xuphan]

Wrong thread- edit

This most likely will be a big rebuild to get this team back to the levels we were this season. It looks like we may very well lose Nunge, Kunkle, Boum, Jones, and Freemantle. That pretty much the production of this years team gone. On top of that, we have several fringe players Tandy, Edwards, Miles who just haven’t developed to play at this level and may look to transfer. That leaves us with Claude, Hunter, Craft, and maybe Tucker returning. We do have a good group of freshmen coming in but freshmen typically do not make a major impact there first year here. So, we most likely will need an impact point guard and at least two impact bigs in my opinion. I trust Miller but next year could be a rebuild year unless we are able to strike it big in the portal. With all the NIL business being played, not sure if that will happen or not.

[IM4X]

There’s a lot of anti-Freemantle speculation being posted up here… He was performing at an all-league level for much of the season….remember his triple-double?….and looked to be pretty engaged with his teammates and coaches. As with ALL of the X players, there were times when he didn’t play some aspects of the game as well as we might have liked. But those occasions were rare. I didn’t see him sulking or disinterested in the huddles or dogging it at anytime. I really don’t get the hate that some are espousing in their posts. I’d love to have him back and would be excited to see it.

I complete agree with your post. I’d love to have Free back too. I too don’t get some of this negative talk about him.

He’s refocused and and playing well with a good attitude. Under Sean’s coaching he and Hunter have stepped up and have thrived.

I want Free back and every other player Sean wants back who has eligibility.

[OTRMUSKIE]

There is no more rebuilding at Xavier. With the portal, I say Xavier will never have a rebuild.

[xudash]

There’s a lot of anti-Freemantle speculation being posted up here. A year ago I might have joined in. But I thought that this past year he had become the player I thought he was going to be after his freshman year. He was performing at an all-league level for much of the season….remember his triple-double?….and looked to be pretty engaged with his teammates and coaches. As with ALL of the X players, there were times when he didn’t play some aspects of the game as well as we might have liked. But those occasions were rare. I didn’t see him sulking or disinterested in the huddles or dogging it at anytime. I really don’t get the hate that some are espousing in their posts. I’d love to have him back and would be excited to see it.

I agree with everything you offered here.

My point was simple: if he doesn't want to be at X, then I don't want him at X. The reverse also is true: if he is committed to Xavier and to how Sean operates the team, then it would be crazy not to be all-in on him, given his talent and experience.

Speculation is the right word for this. We'll most likely know his real intentions soon enough.

[XUBison]

There’s a lot of anti-Freemantle speculation being posted up here. A year ago I might have joined in. But I thought that this past year he had become the player I thought he was going to be after his freshman year. He was performing at an all-league level for much of the season….remember his triple-double?….and looked to be pretty engaged with his teammates and coaches. As with ALL of the X players, there were times when he didn’t play some aspects of the game as well as we might have liked. But those occasions were rare. I didn’t see him sulking or disinterested in the huddles or dogging it at anytime. I really don’t get the hate that some are espousing in their posts. I’d love to have him back and would be excited to see it.

I agree. IDK— sounds like Sean told his good pal MOR Zach’s family sucks, so he’s going to transfer to UK, or something.

[XUGRAD80]

There is no more rebuilding at Xavier. With the portal, I say Xavier will never have a rebuild.

Ok, call it what you will.

It doesn’t really matter what you call it, chances are they are going to be bringing in lots of new players that have to be taught a new to them system and have to be coached on how to play together as an effective team. They are probably going to be losing 90%+ of their minutes played and points scored and replacing them with players that are new to the system and to each other. Call it rebuilding, call it restocking, or call it retooling, or call it whatever, it’s all the same thing.

[UCGRAD4X]

Ok, call it what you will.

It doesn’t really matter what you call it, chances are they are going to be bringing in lots of new players that have to be taught a new to them system and have to be coached on how to play together as an effective team. They are probably going to be losing 90%+ of their minutes played and points scored and replacing them with players that are new to the system and to each other. Call it rebuilding, call it restocking, or call it retooling, or call it whatever, it’s all the same thing.

In this case, rebuilding might not be a negative. There is still some infestation within the structure from the last builder.

[JTG]

I wouldn't call it infestation, they're not vermin. They just don't fit the current system. And can be counciled to continue at a different locale more suited to their talents, like Miami O.

[bleedXblue]

There is no more rebuilding at Xavier. With the portal, I say Xavier will never have a rebuild.

Well, call it what you will. 90% of this years production is not coming back. 4 frosh coming in with not much talent returning is concerning.

I do think Sean will go and get 2-3 transfers that will help, but make no mistake next years team will have an uphill battle to say the least. Finishing in the top half of the league would be great with the intent and focus being to be ready to compete at a HIGH level again in the 24'-25' season.

[drudy23]

Well, call it what you will. 90% of this years production is not coming back. 4 frosh coming in with not much talent returning is concerning.

I do think Sean will go and get 2-3 transfers that will help, but make no mistake next years team will have an uphill battle to say the least. Finishing in the top half of the league would be great with the intent and focus being to be ready to compete at a HIGH level again in the 24'-25' season.

My expectations are still to make the tournament.

Some of these guys are going to return (Free, Colby, Nunge, Hunter). Craft and Claude big jumps, 1-2 portal gets, good freshman class. We'll be fine.

[bleedXblue]

My expectations are still to make the tournament.

Some of these guys are going to return (Free, Colby, Nunge, Hunter). Craft and Claude big jumps, 1-2 portal gets, good freshman class. We'll be fine.

Hmm.

Craft a big jump? Did not see that at all. I do expect Claude to improve and be a key contributor. I do expect Hunter to return. I don't expect anyone else to return that can really help this team.

We're going to need more than 1-2 in the portal. I think at least 3 and maybe even 4 transfers.

[drudy23]

Hmm.

Craft a big jump? Did not see that at all. I do expect Claude to improve and be a key contributor. I do expect Hunter to return. I don't expect anyone else to return that can really help this team.

We're going to need more than 1-2 in the portal. I think at least 3 and maybe even 4 transfers.

We need someone that can hit 3s. Craft is going to need a great off-season, but he's a capable shooter. I'm not giving up on him he has plenty of run-way and it sounds like Sean believes in him too.

[xukeith]

if X gets 3 transfers(1 guard and 2 post players), it likely will take 1 year for X to compete at a top 25 BE level according to past and current NCAA teams.

[drudy23]

if X gets 3 transfers(1 guard and 2 post players), it likely will take 1 year for X to compete at a top 25 BE level according to past and current NCAA teams.

Those other teams don't have Sean Miller.

[xukeith]

Is it unfair to expect Claude to be an offensive threat next season(35% from 3)?

[Xville]

if X gets 3 transfers(1 guard and 2 post players), it likely will take 1 year for X to compete at a top 25 BE level according to past and current NCAA teams.

K state was a bucket or two away from the final four with mostly a transfer portal lineup. They were under 500 last year.

Get the right guys and miller will have no trouble getting them to top 25 level. The days of “rebuilding” are over as long as miller is here

[JTG]

K state was a bucket or two away from the final four with mostly a transfer portal lineup. They were under 500 last year.

Get the right guys and miller will have no trouble getting them to top 25 level. The days of “rebuilding” are over as long as miller is here

Alleluia....Alleluia, Alleluia, AAAAlleeeeeLuia!!!!!!!!!

[xuphan]

K state was a bucket or two away from the final four with mostly a transfer portal lineup. They were under 500 last year.

Get the right guys and miller will have no trouble getting them to top 25 level. The days of “rebuilding” are over as long as miller is here

I agree that the transfer portal allows teams to reload or rebuild quickly and I have a lot of faith that Miller will do that. However, the competition to get these guys with NIL in the picture makes it an uphill battle to get the best of the best from the portal. We definitely need at least 1 if not 2 impact bigs if Free leaves next year along with a CG who can run the point at times. In Miller I trust but he and the staff have an uphill battle to build this team into a Big East challenging team next year.

[D-West & PO-Z]

an uphill battle to build this team into a Big East challenging team next year.

Which is exactly why Xavier hired Miller and why he gets a lot of money.

I don't want to be unrealistic, but Xavier should be bare minimum a tourney team every year moving forward with Miller here.

If they are making the tournament, then they are a top half BE team, if you are a top half BE team, you are generally challenging to win the BE.

The portal changes everything with regards to reloading and I expect Miller will make some key additions there that will have Xavier humming next year, despite losing so much from this years team.

[OTRMUSKIE]

We arnt Dayton, this is Xavier! Why on earth would we have a rebuild year? Hell this year was kind of a rebuild and that went pretty well. Whoever is on this team next year will be better then what we had this year. I expect Xavier to be sweet 16 or better every year. Anything less will be a disappointment.

[xukeith]

We arnt Dayton, this is Xavier! Why on earth would we have a rebuild year? Hell this year was kind of a rebuild and that went pretty well. Whoever is on this team next year will be better then what we had this year. I expect Xavier to be sweet 16 or better every year. Anything less will be a disappointment.

NO team is averaging a sweet 16 appearance every other year. It is good to have high expectations but be optimistic, not delusional.
Since 1998 Duke has been to at least 17 Sweet 16s in 26 seasons. That is a Sweet 16 appearance every 1.5 years.

[Xville]

NO team is averaging a sweet 16 appearance every other year. It is good to have high expectations but be optimistic, not delusional.

Zags have made it what six years in a row? I know they have the better program in recent history but no reason why miller can’t get us to where they are.

[xukeith]

Zags have made it what six years in a row? I know they have the better program in recent history but no reason why miller can’t get us to where they are.

Gonzaga has been to 12 in 24 years. Eight straight is pretty damn good. My earlier post was incorrect . Two schools (Gonzaga and Duke) have been to many averaging between 0.65 and 0.7 a year.

[xuphan]

We arnt Dayton, this is Xavier! Why on earth would we have a rebuild year? Hell this year was kind of a rebuild and that went pretty well. Whoever is on this team next year will be better then what we had this year. I expect Xavier to be sweet 16 or better every year. Anything less will be a disappointment.

I am as excited as anyone about having Sean back and where he can take this program. However, these expectations are a bit delusional. We are losing most of our production from last season and will need to plug most of those gaps in the portal. I am sure the staff will do their best to fill those gaps but it will be difficult to replicate what we did this season.

[drudy23]

I am as excited as anyone about having Sean back and where he can take this program. However, these expectations are a bit delusional. We are losing most of our production from last season and will need to plug most of those gaps in the portal. I am sure the staff will do their best to fill those gaps but it will be difficult to replicate what we did this season.

Delusional?

High expectations, sure, but hardly delusional for a top tier program in a top tier basketball conference.

If having a consistent top 20 program is legit, how is making consistent Sweet 16's delusional?

[xudash]

Which is exactly why Xavier hired Miller and why he gets a lot of money.

I don't want to be unrealistic, but Xavier should be bare minimum a tourney team every year moving forward with Miller here.

If they are making the tournament, then they are a top half BE team, if you are a top half BE team, you are generally challenging to win the BE.

The portal changes everything with regards to reloading and I expect Miller will make some key additions there that will have Xavier humming next year, despite losing so much from this years team.

+1

[Masterofreality]

Dieonte Miles has entered the Transfer Portal.

[xu82]

Dieonte Miles has entered the Transfer Portal.

Shocking nobody, I’m sure.

[BandAid]

Best of luck, Dieonte.

[xu82]

Best of luck, Dieonte.

Agree 100%! Thanks for all the efforts.

[UCGRAD4X]

Showed so much promise in Spain. Hope he goes somewhere he can achieve that potential.

[IM4X]

Good luck Dieonte!

Maybe his old coach over at Miami of Ohio can commit to offering him more playing time. That would be great.

[Masterofreality]

Good luck Dieonte!

Maybe his old coach over at Miami of Ohio can commit to offering him more playing time. That would be great.

If he wants to stay “local” that would seem to be the answer

[XUGRAD80]

miles to NKU wouldn’t surprise me at all.

Wherever he ends up I wish him nothing but the best.

[xavierj]

If he wants to stay “local” that would seem to be the answer

Odds he will go to Miami is about 99-1. My bet would be NKU. I don’t see any Xavier players that may enter the portal end up at Miami.

[UCGRAD4X]

Odds he will go to Miami is about 99-1. My bet would be NKU. I don’t see any Xavier players that may enter the portal end up at Miami.

by their choice or Tin Man's

[xuphan]

Delusional?

High expectations, sure, but hardly delusional for a top tier program in a top tier basketball conference.

If having a consistent top 20 program is legit, how is making consistent Sweet 16's delusional?

We are losing almost all of our production from last years team. We are not bringing in McDonalds All Americans and we are going to have to bring in 2-3 big impact transfers into the program and hope they all gel together to reach next years sweet sixteen. I’m not saying it’s not possible and I have as much faith as anyone in Sean but to expect this program to at least match what we did last year is a bit of a stretch. Especially with all that we are losing. I hope we can make another run in the tournament next year but I am not expecting us to. I think next year will be a bit of a down year for the program as Miller starts to get his players into the program. The long term future looks bright for the program even if next year is somewhat of a down year.

[BigMoeMusketeer]

I am incredibly confident that Xavier is better, tougher, and deeper next year. In fact, I don't have a single fear that Sean won't go into August with a terrific roster molded more in his image.

Now whether or not we make the second weekend is up for debate, balls bounce funny in those first two rounds and "stuff" happens, but I think this team wildly over-achieved with a short (no) bench and an overall lack of athleticism, and I think what we see next year is a more Sean-like team.

We will be really good next year, talk of a rebuild is crazy to me, and until it doesn't happen, I'm expecting us to be a better overall team in '23-'24.

[xukeith]

Seeing these Final 4 teams advance has brought models for success. IF X can have 8-9 players like UConn, X could really dominate.
Maybe Miller could find 1 very reliable guard and 2 very impactful post players. A lineup that relies on 4 guards and 1 post player like Miami(FL) seems solid.

A defense close to San Diego State would greatly benefit X. Miller's team might be strong in defense but also top the offensive efficiency numbers.

[Xville]

Caleb love is available… guessing he will go to another blue blood but I think he’d be a good fit with x since he would have an actual coach instead of Hubert Steele Davis. Played a little too much hero ball at unc but he’s athletic and I like his length at 6’4.

[Xavier]

Seeing these Final 4 teams advance has brought models for success. IF X can have 8-9 players like UConn, X could really dominate.
.

Great model. If only X had UConn’s top 8-9 players they could be in the final four. Just need to find a way to be one of the deepest teams in the country that would be one of the top offensive and defensive teams in the country as well. That seems to be the model Uconn took.

[D-West & PO-Z]

We are losing almost all of our production from last years team. We are not bringing in McDonalds All Americans and we are going to have to bring in 2-3 big impact transfers into the program and hope they all gel together to reach next years sweet sixteen. I’m not saying it’s not possible and I have as much faith as anyone in Sean but to expect this program to at least match what we did last year is a bit of a stretch. Especially with all that we are losing. I hope we can make another run in the tournament next year but I am not expecting us to. I think next year will be a bit of a down year for the program as Miller starts to get his players into the program. The long term future looks bright for the program even if next year is somewhat of a down year.

Portal transfers are at least as much if not more valuable than McDonald's All American's in many cases in today's college basketball landscape. Not a single McDonald's AA is in the Final 4 this year.

I have trust Miller will attack the portal every year with guys already targeted before they even enter the portal that if they do, he knows he wants. Hell, he only went after Boum because he remembered him from a game against UTEP at Arizona. Boum didn't seem to be on many radars.

Miller will want to recruit HS players who rise up throw the program, and this year might need more portal players than normal, but it's going to be important for X to attack the portal every year.

[GoMuskies]

I think the roster is a bit of a mess and next year could be a bit ragged. But yeah, the portal makes it possible to build (or lose) a good team every single year. Hopefully Miller can come through with a couple of Souley level impact players this year.

[Masterofreality]

Portal transfers are at least as much if not more valuable than McDonald's All American's in many cases in today's college basketball landscape. Not a single McDonald's AA is in the Final 4 this year.

I have trust Miller will attack the portal every year with guys already targeted before they even enter the portal that if they do, he knows he wants. Hell, he only went after Boum because he remembered him from a game against UTEP at Arizona. Boum didn't seem to be on many radars.

Miller will want to recruit HS players who rise up throw the program, and this year might need more portal players than normal, but it's going to be important for X to attack the portal every year.

This will be the case until the Covid Year finally washes out.
The whole thing has been Bastardized.

[D-West & PO-Z]

This will be the case until the Covid Year finally washes out.
The whole thing has been Bastardized.

I think the portal will be important beyond that year (2 more covid years left) but there will be less players available with a whole class gone for being able to transfer.

[drudy23]

Caleb love is available… guessing he will go to another blue blood but I think he’d be a good fit with x since he would have an actual coach instead of Hubert Steele Davis. Played a little too much hero ball at unc but he’s athletic and I like his length at 6’4.

Miller can reign in hero ball. That much is obvious based on what he did in one year.

[Masterofreality]

Cesare Edwards is now in the Transfer Portal.

[Masterofreality]

And Add Elijah Tucker to the Portal.

[Xville]

Makes sense… wish them all the best but it’s well known they can’t play at this level. No shame in that, it’s just what it is. I blame Steele for not knowing the talent level that is required at this level.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Maybe Steele wasn’t that great of a recruiter. I hate when people always say how good a recruiter a coach is but sucks at his main job.

[xavierj]

I think the roster is a bit of a mess and next year could be a bit ragged. But yeah, the portal makes it possible to build (or lose) a good team every single year. Hopefully Miller can come through with a couple of Souley level impact players this year.

I would expect at least a couple of Euro players to come in for next year along with the transfers. Maybe one more high school kid as well. Probably 9 new players for next year.

[Masterofreality]

Maybe Steele wasn’t that great of a recruiter. I hate when people always say how good a recruiter a coach is but sucks at his main job.

Seems to me that TFG threw a wide net out there just to see what stuck and he didn’t always fully analyze before an offer was made.
It used to frustrate the hell out of me when seemingly every day on every player there would be someone saying that player “Has heard From Xavier” or that player tweeting “Blessed to receive an offer from Xavier & Coach”.
I get that you have to sometimes cast a wide net, and Steele didn’t have a success rep behind him, but to me, going after any warm body just lessens the value of an offer.

[XUGRAD80]

I’m surprised by Edwards, but not by the others. Was hoping that he would stay around and provide some depth if nothing else.

[MHettel]

Lets not forget that these guys all need to transfer TO somewhere. It does not appear that the door closes once someone enters the portal.

There is a little bit of film on Edwards out there, and I'm sure he will have some options across the mid-major and low major levels due to his decent size and athleticism. His file will not showcase a high level of awareness or skill.

There is no film on Tucker as far as I know. His only minutes seemed to come with the walk ons and he didnt really distinguish himself from them.

Someone will take Miles just cause, well, 7 footers are hard to find. But the film on him is also sparse and will show that his "measurables" that suggest he could be a defensive stopper simply don't align to his instincts. His offensive game is non-existent. If this is his level after 4 years, it doesnt suggest much upside for whoever recruits him.

I dont know what Tandy will do. If healthy, it seems like he could be productive in the right system at a mid-major. He may view next years roster situation at XU as a reason to stay, but I doubt Miller sees him as a key player and will likely bring in transfers to take the available minutes.

The question becomes would Miller shut the door on these guys if they dont land somewhere. My take would be that you allow Edwards and Tucker to return if they wanted to, but I feel that Miles (and Tandy if he enters the portal) have already had their 4 years of opportunity and hopefully have graduated.

This has GOT to be complete chaos for all coaches right now. At this point, Miller has 3 guys in the portal, 1 guy that probably will be headed to the NBA, and then 3 other guys that still have eligibility but maybe wont return (nunge, Free, Hunter). They you have Dez and Craft who I beleive would be welcomed back and should be in line for key roles. The 4 freshmen are complete unknown quantities. How would Miller even KNOW what he needs? How many actual spots does he have to fill. Is he re-recruiting his own guys just as hard as guys in the portal?

My guess is 75% of the teams are similarly situated. This next few weeks is going to be a huge period each year. How bad would it suck if the coaching carousel put you in a position where you had a sudden HC opening during the first week of April.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Is he re-recruiting his own guys just as hard as guys in the portal?



Jeez, let's hope not!

(At least if we are discussing anyone outside of Freemantle, Claude, or Hunter, who are not in the portal at this time.)

[D-West & PO-Z]

I'll be interested to see if any of these guys end up at either Miami or Georgia State.

[Masterofreality]

Someone will take Miles just cause, well, 7 footers are hard to find. But the film on him is also sparse and will show that his "measurables" that suggest he could be a defensive stopper simply don't align to his instincts. His offensive game is non-existent. If this is his level after 4 years, it doesnt suggest much upside for whoever recruits him. .

There actually is film of Miles out there. He started numerous games last season early when Freemantle was out. He even got 9 minutes vs. Ohio State and scored 2 points.
So he’s not a totally blank slate.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

The number of portal players might decrease after the free Covid year guys cycle out, but the portal is here to stay. This season’s final 4 teams have a significant number of transfers and 5 year guys. The 5 year guys won’t be here, but the former is the new reality. Tandy will be next I would assume.

For Kriisa, I would be surprised if he went to WVU. His defense is not on the Huggins’ level. I can’t imagine that working out.

[D-West & PO-Z]

WVU was 4th in the Big 12 in PPG this year and last in points allowed per game. Maybe Huggins is going for a different philosophy!

[Masterofreality]

And KyKy has entered the Portal.

[drudy23]

I can't believe KyKy never got an in-game dunk.

[MHettel]

There actually is film of Miles out there. He started numerous games last season early when Freemantle was out. He even got 9 minutes vs. Ohio State and scored 2 points.
So he’s not a totally blank slate.

Yeah, I know he played a little bit, especially early last year when Zach was out. But he was really a "healthy scratch" for the last year and a half. Given our depth this year, knowing that may be worth more than any film....

[Masterofreality]

Some freshness.
Anyone worried that XU won’t be able to compete in the NIL world can put that concern to rest.
A few of the loyalists, including former players and one surprise entry have stepped in. We seem to be well funded.
No names, please, but X is in good shape.
Next week could be very interesting!

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Can’t wait to see coach Miller’s next move.

[drudy23]

Some freshness.
Anyone worried that XU won’t be able to compete in the NIL world can put that concern to rest.
A few of the loyalists, including former players and one surprise entry have stepped in. We seem to be well funded.
No names, please, but X is in good shape.
Next week could be very interesting!

Enough to sway the likes of Free and Nunge (and even Colby) to stick around?

[Masterofreality]

Enough to sway the likes of Free and Nunge (and even Colby) to stick around?

Next week will be big. Time will tell..

[xu82]

Next week will be big. Time will tell..

Is this like “free beer tomorrow”? I’m not falling for that again. And again. Again.

Hope it’s all good news and it doesn’t drag out TOO long. Off season was never this interesting before.

[nuts4xu]

Some freshness.
Anyone worried that XU won’t be able to compete in the NIL world can put that concern to rest.
A few of the loyalists, including former players and one surprise entry have stepped in. We seem to be well funded.
No names, please, but X is in good shape.
Next week could be very interesting!

Finally a sequel to the famous “Were you there, did you hear” thread from one of the old boards.

[X-band '01]

I thought the sequel was sneaking into the Oracle's office to post on the Internet.

[Masterofreality]

Finally a sequel to the famous “Were you there, did you hear” thread from one of the old boards.

Ha!! I’m not sure what we “hear” when we’re “there” will 100% be to our liking, but at least it won’t be because of lack of money.
Nobody really knows what will be what yet. Lots of options.

[bleedXblue]

Is this like “free beer tomorrow”? I’m not falling for that again. And again. Again.

Hope it’s all good news and it doesn’t drag out TOO long. Off season was never this interesting before.

yeah totally on board with this

Not expecting much next week at all

Hope I am wrong

this free agency thing in college athletics is DUMB

[nuts4xu]

this free agency thing in college athletics is DUMB

It is dumb for a lot of reasons, but as a fan, I am intrigued. The season is over, but now free agent season has begun.

As a fan of college basketball, I am very entertained by the process.

[D-West & PO-Z]

It is dumb for a lot of reasons, but as a fan, I am intrigued. The season is over, but now free agent season has begun.

As a fan of college basketball, I am very entertained by the process.

Absolutely. And in the last couple years it has only been a net positive for Xavier. We'll get burned eventually, but for now, I love that Miller has a lot of options for next year.

[Masterofreality]

yeah totally on board with this

Not expecting much next week at all

Hope I am wrong

this free agency thing in college athletics is DUMB

Next week is important due to movement on the Portal. Obviously, the player controls his situation, but indications are that guys want to get their decisions over with to allow clarity. Colby is “probably” the exception due to pro prospects, but even that isn’t for sure.

[Xville]

Probably just me, but I only want nunge back if he’s playing 20-25 minutes a game, max. I don’t think he is nearly as effective playing much more than that, and frankly I think that the frontline needs to get beefier and meaner. I don’t care what free does.. if he wants to stay, great. If not, sayonara.

Again, probably just me, but I think this roster needs a bit of an overhaul. The roster overachieved this past year imo, and I’m thankful they got x back to our rightful place, but I think it’s about time to move on.

[xu82]

It is dumb for a lot of reasons, but as a fan, I am intrigued. The season is over, but now free agent season has begun.

As a fan of college basketball, I am very entertained by the process.

The NFL has mastered the art of staying interesting all year long. After the playoffs they have the combine on TV, free agency, the draft is a traveling fan event that stretches over 3 nights on TV. There is always something going on to pay attention to with the NFL.

For better or worse, I’ll be paying more attention to Xavier basketball in the “offseason” than I ever have in the past. I used to just shut it off in my mind until the next season starts. Change keeps coming, time to keep up!

[Backyard Champ]

Yeah I’ve seen the Nunge take a few times and it’s shocking. He’s a huge mismatch for the majority of the teams. He’s an extremely good passer as well- our offense was one of the most efficient in the country and it started with getting the bigs the ball and working from there. I’d love him back- would be great if we could get a big that could let Nunge rest a bit. The team was no where near as good with him on the bench- we desperately need a big to let Nunge rest a bit.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Next week is important due to movement on the Portal. Obviously, the player controls his situation, but indications are that guys want to get their decisions over with to allow clarity. Colby is “probably” the exception due to pro prospects, but even that isn’t for sure.

Thx Mor. Appreciate the heads-up and your perspective. If you are a "big", in the portal and considering X, I have to believe that playing in Cintas, for Miller and being part of an offensive scheme that led college basketball in assists would be hugely attractive........even apart from NIL considerations. If you are a current player, this program must be equally attractive when considering alternatives.

[MHettel]

Yeah I’ve seen the Nunge take a few times and it’s shocking. He’s a huge mismatch for the majority of the teams. He’s an extremely good passer as well- our offense was one of the most efficient in the country and it started with getting the bigs the ball and working from there. I’d love him back- would be great if we could get a big that could let Nunge rest a bit. The team was no where near as good with him on the bench- we desperately need a big to let Nunge rest a bit.

It appeared to me that when he got tired, Nunge would often commit a lazy foul (hacking someone from behind if they went baseline) that essentially forced him to come out with foul trouble. That helps NOBODY.

I agree that 25 minutes a game would have been perfect. The 3 man rotation with Hunter worked great up front, although I would have preferred a bit more size. Miles never earned the chance to play, but if he had just been serviceable it would have helped. We need a Tyrique, Jalen, McLean kinda guy that plays above the rim and is willing and able to BANG.

[Masterofreality]

Thx Mor. Appreciate the heads-up and your perspective. If you are a "big", in the portal and considering X, I have to believe that playing in Cintas, for Miller and being part of an offensive scheme that led college basketball in assists would be hugely attractive........even apart from NIL considerations. If you are a current player, this program must be equally attractive when considering alternatives.

Ah, but let me throw in a caveat. This is Final 4 week and a “Dead Period” so there really won’t be any news on transfers for the next few days.
HOWEVER, this does not preclude current guys from making decisions about their future that will impact who may come soon.
I’m told that outside visits so far have gone well, but lots of moving parts.
X has the NIL money. Let’s GO!!

[Xavier]

Just to clarify that a little more- the dead period just prohibits in person contact. (Visits etc) so X can certainly still be in touch with whomever via phone/zoom/etc. but to MORs point I wouldn’t expect any decisions from guys who haven’t visited yet. I too have heard some good things about the visit from the Wyoming player.

[Masterofreality]

Just to clarify that a little more- the dead period just prohibits in person contact. (Visits etc) so X can certainly still be in touch with whomever via phone/zoom/etc. but to MORs point I wouldn’t expect any decisions from guys who haven’t visited yet. I too have heard some good things about the visit from the Wyoming player.

You are correct sir!

[IM4X]

It appeared to me that when he got tired, Nunge would often commit a lazy foul (hacking someone from behind if they went baseline) that essentially forced him to come out with foul trouble. That helps NOBODY.

I agree that 25 minutes a game would have been perfect. The 3 man rotation with Hunter worked great up front, although I would have preferred a bit more size. Miles never earned the chance to play, but if he had just been serviceable it would have helped. We need a Tyrique, Jalen, McLean kinda guy that plays above the rim and is willing and able to BANG.


Absolutely! I’ll see your Tyrique. Jalen and McLean and raise you a D Brown, J Love and J Farr. Honestly any of those kind of players would be a great addition. Don’t know enough about the Wyoming fella. He looks like he’d be a pretty nice pick up, though.

Still, I want Nunge, Freemantle and Hunter back badly. They would be so polished and have such great chemistry from the start of next season. It would be pretty magical.

[IM4X]

Absolutely! I’ll see your Tyrique. Jalen and McLean and raise you a D Brown, J Love and J Farr. Honestly any of those kind of players would be a great addition. Don’t know enough about the Wyoming fella. He looks like he’d be a pretty nice pick up, though.

Still, I want Nunge, Freemantle and Hunter back badly. They would be so polished and have such great chemistry from the start of next season. It would be pretty magical.


Edit: I want Colby back badly too. I didn’t mention him above because we were talking about bigs.

[JTG]

Colby declares for the NBA.

[Xavier]

Best of luck to Colby. I know you can declare and test the waters but his thank you message is clear/ he’s gone.

[Masterofreality]

Colby declares for the NBA.

And he’s not retaining eligibility. No surprise.
Good luck CJ. Make Xavier proud.

[XUBob]

Good luck Colby! You will be missed, here is to a long and successful professional career.

[Masterofreality]

The smoke however from the chimney seems to be white that Free and Jerome are coming back. FWIW.
There is always a wild card with Free tho. Just sayin’

[Uncle Joe]

The smoke however from the chimney seems to be white that Free and Jerome are coming back. FWIW.
There is always a wild card with Free tho. Just sayin’

Any word on Nunge?

In somewhat related news, Adam Baum is moving on.

[Xville]

Any word on Nunge?

In somewhat related news, Adam Baum is moving on.

Sad to see him go. Said he was taking something outside of journalism. He did say in a followup tweet, Xavier nation I wouldn’t unfollow me yet. Wonder if he is taking something more directly with the program?

[Uncle Joe]

Speaking of Adam, he just posted this story about Phil Bucklew - X Grad. Amazing life story: https://www.cincinnati.com/in-depth/sports/college/xavier/xaviersports/2022/05/26/ohio-phil-bucklew-father-navy-special-warfare-history-xavier-university/8878401002/?build=native-web_i_p

[xu9697]

Any word on Nunge?

In somewhat related news, Adam Baum is moving on.

We could replace Nunge with this guy:

https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/michigan-star-hunter-dickinson-three-time-all-big-ten-performer-enters-transfer-portal/

[Masterofreality]

Any word on Nunge?

In somewhat related news, Adam Baum is moving on.

Zero Dark 30 right now on Jack.
Adam was a joy. He’s apparently leaving Journalism. Really a great guy and fine reporter. We’ve been blessed with our beat reporters between Shannon Russell and Adam. He’ll be fine but will be missed for sure.

[paulxu]

We could replace Nunge with this guy:

https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/michigan-star-hunter-dickinson-three-time-all-big-ten-performer-enters-transfer-portal/

He looks like he could drive an Uber.

[xukeith]

Seems he would be a major upgrade from Nunge. X All start team might be in store.

[bjf123]

The smoke however from the chimney seems to be white that Free and Jerome are coming back. FWIW.
There is always a wild card with Free tho. Just sayin’

I’ll be very surprised if Free is back. I’d love to see it, but don’t think it will happen.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[D-West & PO-Z]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230401/9209acc811319965e25cd450a8090836.jpg


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[D-West & PO-Z]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230401/dc3a924a7886523c16c6f7ec8aff0d3c.jpg

Those teams.....:sign-wtf::sick:

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[UCGRAD4X]

I think it is worth noting that just entering the portal DOESN'T preclude them from returning.

For Zach about .01%.

Just saying is all. :thumbsdown:

[D-West & PO-Z]

Ok, so I just want people to see here quickly after seeing those tweets, that those are fake tweets, April Fools!

(Don't want people who won't double check to have a meltdown too bad, lol!)

[bjf123]

I think it is worth noting that just entering the portal precludes them from returning.

For Zach about .01%.

Just saying is all. :thumbsdown:

Don’t you mean “does not preclude them from returning”?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[paulxu]

Maybe it's an April Fool's joke.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Maybe it's an April Fool's joke.

It is, by me, lol probably not the best one for this group! I posted right after the tweets so people would hopefully see quickly before all the Freemantle slander started.

[bjf123]

It is, by me, lol probably not the best one for this group! I posted right after the tweets so people would hopefully see quickly before all the Freemantle slander started.

Well played, sir! [emoji1787][emoji1787][emoji1787]


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[Masterofreality]

It is, by me, lol probably not the best one for this group! I posted right after the tweets so people would hopefully see quickly before all the Freemantle slander started.

Surprised that Tweet didn’t come from someone much more reliable:

Like Ron Jothstein or Markus Walters.

[UCGRAD4X]

Don’t you mean “does not preclude them from returning”?

Thank you!

[X-band '01]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230401/dc3a924a7886523c16c6f7ec8aff0d3c.jpg

Those teams.....:sign-wtf::sick:

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I almost feel like that list of schools screams "How best can I twist the knife against Xavier fans?"

(scans at phone, sees call from 937 area code)

(declines phone call from Anthony Grant)

"Okay, I don't hate Xavier that much"

[xu82]

I almost feel like that list of schools screams "How best can I twist the knife against Xavier fans?"

(scans at phone, sees call from 937 area code)

(declines phone call from Anthony Grant)

"Okay, I don't hate Xavier that much"

I hear he’s narrowed it down to Dayton or Miami of Ohio.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I almost feel like that list of schools screams "How best can I twist the knife against Xavier fans?"

(scans at phone, sees call from 937 area code)

(declines phone call from Anthony Grant)

"Okay, I don't hate Xavier that much"

That is exactly why I made them up, lol. Sent this to some buddies who were going nuts.

I almost did Dayton, but didn't want the tweet to come across as fake right away, lol.

[JTG]

I hear he’s narrowed it down to Dayton or Miami of Ohio.

I heard Butler or UC.

[IM4X]

Seems he would be a major upgrade from Nunge. X All start team might be in store.

I think that’s a little harsh and I have to disagree. He’s a little beefier than Nunge, but they are both tall bigs that have some skills and can shoot well from three. X had a much more balanced and better team. Michigan had to rely on him to score more. Not saying it wouldn’t be nice to land him, just that I don’t see him as a major upgrade and I really want Nunge back.

[bjf123]

My take on Nunge is the same as Free. I hope he’s back, but don’t think it will happen. The only way I see it is if he can get more NIL money than he would turning pro and playing overseas.


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[IM4X]

Ok, so I just want people to see here quickly after seeing those tweets, that those are fake tweets, April Fools!

(Don't want people who won't double check to have a meltdown too bad, lol!)

Too late. You got me good. That Rothstein tweet looks legit. It’s even worded the way he’d write it. Well done.

Now I’m just crossing my fingers we don’t see it followed up with a real tweet about Zach.

[xuphan]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230401/dc3a924a7886523c16c6f7ec8aff0d3c.jpg

Those teams.....:sign-wtf::sick:

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Best of luck to Free. Hope he doesn’t join a big east team.

[XUGRAD80]

Best of luck to Free. Hope he doesn’t join a big east team.


It was a weak April Fools joke…..no truth to it.

[xuphan]

It was a weak April Fools joke…..no truth to it.

Ah they got me. Hopefully we get some good news soon on the portal front.

[bjf123]

KyKy to Jacksonville State.

https://twitter.com/kykytandy/status/1643031380148867074?s=61&t=atwq9BjXquoKWiKfBRN9fw


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[Three Point Pete]

KyKy to Jacksonville State.

https://twitter.com/kykytandy/status/1643031380148867074?s=61&t=atwq9BjXquoKWiKfBRN9fw


Sent from my iPad using TapatalkKyky will upgrade their perimeter defense. Last Nov. Alabama made 21 treys in 104-62 blow out.

Sent from my SM-A326U using Tapatalk

[Masterofreality]

KyKy to Jacksonville State.

https://twitter.com/kykytandy/status/1643031380148867074?s=61&t=atwq9BjXquoKWiKfBRN9fw


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Hope his foot heals and has a great two years at Jax State

[drudy23]

Best of luck to Free. Hope he doesn’t join a big east team.

I know this was a joke, but you don't offer well wishes if a Xavier player considers UC.

[XUBison]

Hope his foot heals and has a great two years at Jax State

Yep, hope he tears it up there.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Yep, hope he tears it up there.

Basketball right? Not his foot.....

[XUBison]

Basketball right? Not his foot.....

Ha! Correct. He seems like the kind of player who could really shine against lesser competition. Hope he stays healthy… He’ll be fun to follow.

[Backyard Champ]

If he gets playing time- I could easily see him average 12 points a game.

[IM4X]

Trying to figure out where we are - right now -for next season.

In a perfect world (should all remaining players stay for next season) we would have three spots left to fill and we would be looking pretty solid at all spots. Should we be so fortunate, I would imagine Sean feels at least one more PG/Combo guard as a must. One more big is a top priority. Finally, I’d imagine another combo guard or a SF as another top priority.


PLAYERS CURRENTLY STILL ON THE ROSTER

NUNGE - C/PF
FREEMANTLE - PF
HUNTER - SF/PF
CLAUDE - PG/SG/SF
CRAFT - SG/SF


INCOMING FRESHMEN

GREEN -PG/SG
SWAIN -SF
DUCHARME -SF/SG
NZEH -PF/C


TRANSFER PORTAL PICKUPS

DUNCOMB -PF/C


POTENTIAL TRANSFER PORTAL TARGETS

Kriisa - PG (Arizona) - maybe headed to WVU
Olivari - G (Rice)
Ike - C/PF (Wyoming)
Cryer -PG (Baylor)
Spears -PG (Georgetown)
Murray -SF (Georgetown)
Jones SF - (SJ)
Starr - SG (SJ)
Alexander -PG ((SJ)
Hugley - PF/C (Pitt)

[paulxu]

I guess the days of not getting guys from fellow conference teams are long gone.

[noteggs]

I guess the days of not getting guys from fellow conference teams are long gone.

Or coaches.

[IM4X]

I guess the days of not getting guys from fellow conference teams are long gone.

It’s a little different going after players from your same conference when it’s a team where the coach leaves or is let go.

[waggy]

Talent retention. Better to keep good players in conference than lose to another.