PDA

View Full Version : Game Thread: Xavier v Marquette University (2/15/2023)



Pages : [1] 2

paulxu
02-14-2023, 07:41 AM
https://live.staticflickr.com/4074/4819000479_2020c62eb9_n.jpg VS.https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/xeEAAMXQya1Q8vgG/s-l500.jpg


CINCINNATI --- The No. 16 Xavier University Musketeers, 19-6 overall and 11-3 in the BIG EAST Conference, visit the No. 11 Marquette University Golden Eagles, 20-6 overall and 12-3 in the BIG EAST on Wednesday night. Xavier is a half-game behind first-place Marquette.

Xavier is 5-3 in road games this season, including 4-3 in BIG EAST play.

THE MATCHUP

NO. 16/16 XAVIER UNIVERSITY Musketeers (19-6, 11-3 BIG EAST)
NO. 11/10 MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY GOLDEN EAGLES (20-6, 12-3 BIG EAST)
WEDNESDAY, FEB. 15, 2023 AT 7 P.M. ET (6 P.M. CT)
AT FISERV FORUM IN MILWAUKEE, WIS.

TV, RADIO & LIVE STATS

Television: CBS Sports Network with play by-play from Carter Blackburn and analysis from former Xavier head coach Pete Gillen. Evan Washburn is the sideline reporter.
Xavier Radio: 55KRC 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 broadcast also available on Sirius XM 136 or 201 and 964 on the SXM App.
Live Stats: GoXavier.com. (http://goxavier.com)

drudy23
02-14-2023, 08:59 AM
Win please.

GoMuskies
02-14-2023, 09:17 AM
Sagarin would make Xavier a 3.5 point dog.

bleedXblue
02-14-2023, 09:55 AM
Tall task. Hope we hang in there. They will be ready.

GoMuskies
02-14-2023, 06:06 PM
Xavier +5.5. That's not giving me the warm fuzzies on Boum's status.

Xville
02-14-2023, 06:51 PM
Xavier +5.5. That's not giving me the warm fuzzies on Boum's status.

if boum is out, at least we can all make some money on it.

Xavier
02-14-2023, 07:44 PM
I actually thought it might be 6 or 6.5 with boum.

xavierj
02-14-2023, 07:58 PM
Boum is fine, Sean even said as much last night. Everyone is a little banged up at this point in the season. If Boum wasn’t good the spread would be 8 or 9. Spread is where it should be when playing at Marquette. Xavier will have to shoot the ball well and not turn it over. They turn it over more than 11 or 12 times it will be a long night.

Xville
02-14-2023, 08:23 PM
Boum is fine, Sean even said as much last night. Everyone is a little banged up at this point in the season. If Boum wasn’t good the spread would be 8 or 9. Spread is where it should be when playing at Marquette. Xavier will have to shoot the ball well and not turn it over. They turn it over more than 11 or 12 times it will be a long night.

I hope you’re right but a two point difference between sagarin and the Vegas line is pretty large.

I expect a better effort than at butler that’s for sure.

Masterofreality
02-15-2023, 08:48 AM
Ima feeling good about tonight.
Our guys are gonna come out with fire & focus.

xukeith
02-15-2023, 08:50 AM
Will X win rebounding war by 15-20 boards?

noteggs
02-15-2023, 01:53 PM
Does anybody know how many points Kolek had at halftime last game?

Wrong answers only…

GoMuskies
02-15-2023, 01:59 PM
A billion?

muskiefan82
02-15-2023, 02:00 PM
Does anybody know how many points Kolek had at halftime last game?

Wrong answers only…

More than he should have had.

GoMuskies
02-15-2023, 02:01 PM
More than he should have had.

He said wrong answers only! :)

blueblood
02-15-2023, 02:04 PM
Does anybody know how many points Kolek had at halftime last game?

Wrong answers only…

Wrong answers only?

Pretty sure they were all with his right hand.

Smails
02-15-2023, 04:22 PM
No Desmond Claude tonight...ughh. No details, but he's not with the team on the trip.

GoMuskies
02-15-2023, 04:31 PM
No Desmond Claude tonight...ughh. No details, but he's not with the team on the trip.

So lots of Tandy and Craft. What could go wrong?

D-West & PO-Z
02-15-2023, 04:32 PM
No Desmond Claude tonight...ughh. No details, but he's not with the team on the trip.

sick apparently I was just texted.

Not great. F

Xville
02-15-2023, 04:40 PM
Geezus f..

Smails
02-15-2023, 04:55 PM
Maybe the old wounded dog story plays out tonight because we are definitely on a skeleton crew

Smails
02-15-2023, 04:55 PM
sick apparently I was just texted.

Not great. F

not great, but better than injured or 'personal'

drudy23
02-15-2023, 05:28 PM
We're gonna win.

Lloyd Braun
02-15-2023, 05:31 PM
So lots of Tandy and Craft. What could go wrong?

Craft also out for a month

D-West & PO-Z
02-15-2023, 05:32 PM
Craft also out for a month

What happened to him?

GoMuskies
02-15-2023, 05:32 PM
Craft also out for a month

When did that happen?!? That really sucks for him that he finally would have had a perfect opportunity to contribute and he's hurt.

94GRAD
02-15-2023, 05:34 PM
When did that happen?!? That really sucks for him that he finally would have had a perfect opportunity to contribute and he's hurt.

https://twitter.com/AdamJBaum/status/1625985827267280900

noteggs
02-15-2023, 05:34 PM
Is this true?

A lot of rumors about the program right now…

Did Sean bring this up Monday?

Edit: NM

Double edit: F*%k!

Xavier
02-15-2023, 05:41 PM
Saying “a lot of rumors about the program” make it sound like a lot of issues. Hard to believe anything is going on behind the scenes

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 05:42 PM
This was a great game one of many Xavier has played in the Big East this year.

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

GoMuskies
02-15-2023, 05:48 PM
Welcome to the defining moment in KyKy Tandy's Xavier career....

noteggs
02-15-2023, 05:48 PM
Saying “a lot of rumors about the program” make it sound like a lot of issues. Hard to believe anything is going on behind the scenes

Oh not at all. Just some stupid ass troll stuff from Twitter. Just happens to be with players who are mentioned/injured.

Lloyd Braun
02-15-2023, 05:59 PM
Welcome to the defining moment in KyKy Tandy's Xavier career....

To be fair he’s still probably not getting much run unless everyone is in foul trouble….

Ok I guess you’re right.

GoMuskies
02-15-2023, 06:01 PM
I mean, there's no chance Boum is more than about 80%. We'll kind of have no choice. I need to study the roster and learn the names of the walk-ons.

Xville
02-15-2023, 06:05 PM
Edwards is also going to get a lot of minutes… yikes. How much to put on Marquette? Hand over the mortgage?

Guessing kyky is going to get the full green light. If open at half court just shoot it

noteggs
02-15-2023, 06:07 PM
I mean, there's no chance Boum is more than about 80%. We'll kind of have no choice. I need to study the roster and learn the names of the walk-ons.

Fear the mullet!! Number 45 in program number 1 in our hearts.

Smails
02-15-2023, 06:08 PM
Jesus make it stop...

X-band '01
02-15-2023, 06:16 PM
I hope Claude didn't get sick from the Hinkle water fountains.

GoMuskies
02-15-2023, 06:18 PM
Kunkel hitting about 8 threes would be welcomed.

XU_Lou
02-15-2023, 06:29 PM
Well definitely some good news:

"He’s still not cleared to return, but Zach Freemantle, who has missed Xavier’s last three games with a foot injury, went through warmups tonight at Marquette.

A positive sign in his progression."

https://twitter.com/AdamJBaum/status/1625999138893570049

D-West & PO-Z
02-15-2023, 06:31 PM
To be fair he’s still probably not getting much run unless everyone is in foul trouble….

Ok I guess you’re right.

KyKy is going to have to play. He’s the only sub that isn’t Edwards.

drudy23
02-15-2023, 06:36 PM
The sun is shining and it's 70 degrees - making me think positive thoughts. Tonight we ride.

xukeith
02-15-2023, 06:44 PM
The sun is shining and it's 70 degrees - making me think positive thoughts. Tonight we ride.

Only thing that makes me smile more than this spring warm weather is Muskies winning.

JTG
02-15-2023, 06:51 PM
So Marquette is facing the Xavier walk ons tonight.

xukeith
02-15-2023, 07:04 PM
Walk ons tonight shock Marquette. Who preps for walk ons?

xukeith
02-15-2023, 07:07 PM
Kunkel playing tonight off teh bench. Edwards ......

Xville
02-15-2023, 07:10 PM
Nunge has to step up tonight. He can’t be missing bunnies and turning the ball over

Xville
02-15-2023, 07:11 PM
Boum’s shot has been off for a long time now

xu82
02-15-2023, 07:15 PM
Boum’s shot has been off for a long time now

Well, when you shoot over 50% beyond the arc for a long stretch, you are bound to have an adjustment.

kellernr
02-15-2023, 07:15 PM
Nunge has struggled with his passing lately. What the hell is.going on with him? Every pass is a weak pass into traffic

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

Xville
02-15-2023, 07:16 PM
The defense is playing really well.. good intensity

xu82
02-15-2023, 07:17 PM
Five minutes in with 4 points. Who took the under?

Wrong thread?

bjf123
02-15-2023, 07:18 PM
Five minutes in with 4 points. Who took the under?

Wrong thread?

Not me.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Xville
02-15-2023, 07:20 PM
Yikes kyky… nice d Kunkel

Xville
02-15-2023, 07:21 PM
Colby came to play! Make your foul shots though, come on.

X-band '01
02-15-2023, 07:23 PM
Kunkel playing tonight off teh bench. Edwards ......

Kunkel actually started, but they did show Edwards as starting during the broadcast.

Three Point Pete
02-15-2023, 07:23 PM
I would like to hear huddle talk tonight!


Sent from my SM-A326U using Tapatalk

X-band '01
02-15-2023, 07:24 PM
The defense is playing really well.. good intensity

A happy accident given who's available, perhaps?

Marquette isn't going to shoot this cold all night. But a much better start than the disaster in Indy.

noteggs
02-15-2023, 07:25 PM
Not what I was expecting from Marquette. But ok and hell yeah!

Xville
02-15-2023, 07:26 PM
Good comments there from miller… probably going to need that softer approach tonight.

xu82
02-15-2023, 07:26 PM
Did we “hold them” to 2-12 shooting, or did they just suck shooting?

X-band '01
02-15-2023, 07:28 PM
Marquette is rushing some of their shots, so there is that.

Xville
02-15-2023, 07:28 PM
Did we “hold them” to 2-12 shooting, or did they just suck shooting?

Probably a little of both lol but I do like the effort…as we all know that was sorely lacking against butler

X-band '01
02-15-2023, 07:32 PM
Don't want to see too many Marquette deflections - they eventually turn into turnovers in transition and fast break opportunities.

But you couldn't have asked for a much better opening 12 minutes. Hope Xavier doesn't fall into the habit of settling for just 3s, either.

Three Point Pete
02-15-2023, 07:32 PM
Marq. averaged 1 point/min. I have to think defenders need a little bit of credit


Sent from my SM-A326U using Tapatalk

noteggs
02-15-2023, 07:32 PM
Do we actually have a defense?

Too soon never mind.

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 07:34 PM
I rather be up 11 then down 11 but still not feeling great about our chances tonight. Hope I am wrong. They are missing tons of shots.

xu82
02-15-2023, 07:39 PM
I rather be up 11 then down 11 but still not feeling great about our chances tonight. Hope I am wrong. They are missing tons of shots.

Please stop reading my mind. I warn you, if you go any farther, you’ll regret it! :-)

noteggs
02-15-2023, 07:40 PM
I rather be up 11 then down 11 but still not feeling great about our chances tonight. Hope I am wrong. They are missing tons of shots.

Think both are…

Xville
02-15-2023, 07:40 PM
If x is still up by half I’ll be pretty shocked. Only way they win this one is if they can keep it in the 60s and rock fight it. Let’s git r done

xu82
02-15-2023, 07:43 PM
Boum looked OK there. What a helluva find!

X-band '01
02-15-2023, 07:45 PM
Gonna be plenty of fouls for both sides to use in the 2nd half.

Xville
02-15-2023, 07:46 PM
Really poor shot selection last 4 minutes. Really should have extended the lead the way marquette was playing. Really rushed shots for no reason.

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 07:47 PM
Damn that fell apart real quick. X couldn't hit anything all those drives and shots near the basket felt forced and half didn't even hit the rim.

From 13 to 2 damn. Boum had a open 3 in the corner that could pushed it to 16 and missed and from that point on been all Marquette.

They have started getting steals.

Very disappointing was shocked we got up 13 but now just as shocked it is down to 2 was really hoping to go into the half up 8 to 10 pts.

If X don't come out hot to start 2nd half I am afraid it could become a big problem.

noteggs
02-15-2023, 07:50 PM
Great play!!

Xville
02-15-2023, 07:51 PM
I’ll take the 4 point lead, thank you!

X-band '01
02-15-2023, 07:52 PM
That might have been one of the best defensive halves I've seen from Adam Kunkel. He was responsible for forcing at least 2-3 Marquette turnovers.

bjf123
02-15-2023, 07:52 PM
I’ll take the 4 point lead, thank you!

Yep. Did not expect that at all.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

xu82
02-15-2023, 07:52 PM
SWEET finishing play!

It confused me after the last few years, but it made me happy. It looked almost like they have been coached.

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 07:53 PM
0 made combined FT's in the 1st half. How often has that happened in any basketball game ?

xu82
02-15-2023, 07:57 PM
0 made combined FT's in the 1st half. How often has that happened in any basketball game ?

I don’t know, but I wouldn’t be shocked if Shaq was involved!

xukeith
02-15-2023, 08:02 PM
X should be up by 15. X does well when they play good defense. Marquette helped with lots of turnovers and bricks

Boum and Tandy and Kunkel might be running on empty after 10 minute mark in 2nd half.

noteggs
02-15-2023, 08:06 PM
If you said Kyky, Edwards, and Nunge all had 2 points at halftime and we would be up 4. Interesting

xukeith
02-15-2023, 08:08 PM
I am watching Colby guard Kolek . Who is guarding Kam Jones?

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:10 PM
What the hell are we doing these first couple of possessions?

noteggs
02-15-2023, 08:13 PM
Happy feelings starting to fade

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:15 PM
Nunge needs to step the hell up this 2nd half… 2 pts and 3 rbs in first half? Come on

bjf123
02-15-2023, 08:16 PM
Sloppy pass by Souley. Ugh.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

profson
02-15-2023, 08:18 PM
Nunge needs to step the hell up this 2nd half… 2 pts and 3 rbs in first half? Come on

Hard to believe we are in it without him contributing

xukeith
02-15-2023, 08:22 PM
Thank goodness practiced free throws. Everyone had to make 50 post Butler.

kellernr
02-15-2023, 08:22 PM
Nunge is broken

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:26 PM
Well it looks like another Pepto Bismol game boys

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:26 PM
Gutsy games from our three guards. I’m not sure what our forwards are doing

X-band '01
02-15-2023, 08:28 PM
Just hoping Nunge tries to get more touches in the post instead of outside the arc.

Keep waiting for a Marquette burst, but not happening yet.

Lloyd Braun
02-15-2023, 08:28 PM
Now would be a good time to get both bench guys some minutes

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:29 PM
So many bad pass turnovers tonight

xukeith
02-15-2023, 08:29 PM
No Tucker . No Edwards .

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:30 PM
Boum!!!!

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:31 PM
You got to be kidding me with that foul call

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:31 PM
So kunkel boxes out and that’s a foul? Wtf

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:32 PM
How many 2nd chance pts have we given up by not getting a rebound

xukeith
02-15-2023, 08:32 PM
X post players should dominate Marquette weak post players. Need to outrebound them by at least 10 boards.

bjf123
02-15-2023, 08:32 PM
No Tucker . No Edwards .

Caesar was in for a little. Dude got a haircut so I didn’t recognize him at first.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:33 PM
KaBoum!

KabeX
02-15-2023, 08:34 PM
I love KyKy but I don't think he can guard me.

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:34 PM
Boum!! Man is carrying us this half, damn!

xu82
02-15-2023, 08:35 PM
Now would be a good time to get both bench guys some minutes

Are you limbered up?

Blue Blooded-05
02-15-2023, 08:35 PM
80% Boum is still f-in good

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:36 PM
How is that not a foul ? JFC

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:36 PM
So the dumb ref blows the call and instead of our ball up 5 it is now their ball down 3

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:36 PM
Geezus nunge… I know you’re probably exhausted but come on wtf are you doing.

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:37 PM
Nunge redeems himself !

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:38 PM
Nunge!!! All is forgiven!

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:38 PM
14 turnovers

Prison rules Boum doesn't get the call again

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:39 PM
Another rebound for them leads to pts we CANT GET TEH GOD DAM REBOUND

KabeX
02-15-2023, 08:40 PM
Guess they're lettin em play a little bit here

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:40 PM
Guys we just gave up 2 more OFF rebounds led to another 3

That's 5 pts we gave up in last 2 possessions because we can't get a freaking rebound

That last 1 inexcusable the ball hit the floor on the miss

That and 15 turnovers cost us the game

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:41 PM
Not rebounding at all… just absolutely killing us. Forwards have been atrocious most of the night

kellernr
02-15-2023, 08:41 PM
Edward's comes in. Team goes to trash. Wish we had some bigs who could grab a rebound and not just tip the ball around. Go up and get the damn thing.

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

BillikenMusketeer
02-15-2023, 08:42 PM
Out rebounded out hustled

Blue Blooded-05
02-15-2023, 08:42 PM
13 Marquette offensive rebounds
15 Xavier turnovers

We look gassed but still in it. Wish Sean would have saved that timeout since next whistle was under-8 tv timeout

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:42 PM
We are shooting 52% and them 37% but

They have 13 OFF rebounds X has 4
X has 15 turnovers they have 6

Really going to be tough to swallow a loss when you outshoot them 52% to 37%

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:43 PM
They have competed, especially the guards so can’t get too mad at them. At least it’s not like butler where they didn’t even know they were in a game

kellernr
02-15-2023, 08:43 PM
Not rebounding at all… just absolutely killing us. Forwards have been atrocious most of the nightNeed to bring hunter off the bench going forward. He played way better when he wasn't in the starting lineup.

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:43 PM
After Nunge 3 to go up 6 I felt pretty good but can't get a rebound and keep turning it over.

Sick

xukeith
02-15-2023, 08:43 PM
X looks gassed.

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:44 PM
OMFG we didn't get another rebound

X shooting 71% this half and losing

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:45 PM
Fucking rebound! Geezus

Blue Blooded-05
02-15-2023, 08:45 PM
At this point, we’re going to have to put mullet kid in the game

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:45 PM
Bring in the mullet!

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:46 PM
That foul is on jones for not grabbing the damn ball

kellernr
02-15-2023, 08:48 PM
Refs are taking over this game. No fouls in the 1st half. Non stop whistles in the 2nd half

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:48 PM
Tied up with 5 to go, I’ll take it

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:50 PM
X looks so gassed.

xukeith
02-15-2023, 08:50 PM
Edwards can't rebound. yikes

XUBob
02-15-2023, 08:50 PM
X getting a terrible whistle.

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:51 PM
Get the ball inside, they want to call the foul!

bjf123
02-15-2023, 08:51 PM
X getting a terrible whistle.

Just a bit!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:52 PM
Colby!!!

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:53 PM
Finally a call goes our way.

10 years ago they would called a walk on Jones on that 3.

So after all the turnovers and giving up all those OFF rebounds we somehow lead by 1 with 3 mins left.

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:53 PM
Hell yeah Colby!!! Great couple of possessions there. Up with two minutes who woulda thunk it?

Blue Blooded-05
02-15-2023, 08:53 PM
Love when the refs use block/charge to even out foul disparity... when it goes in our favor, of course

kellernr
02-15-2023, 08:53 PM
Edwards can't rebound. yikesNo one can. All they do is try to tip it instead of grabbing it.

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

bjf123
02-15-2023, 08:54 PM
Finally a call goes our way.

10 years ago they would called a walk on Jones on that 3.

So after all the turnovers and giving up all those OFF rebounds we somehow lead by 1 with 3 mins left.

10 years ago, they’d be calling travels all night long.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:56 PM
No matter what hell of a game from souley and Colby… hell of a gutsy effort

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:56 PM
Why jones why

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:57 PM
Ugh Colby don’t bail Kolek out… ugh

xavierj
02-15-2023, 08:57 PM
Why jones why

Terrible call.

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 08:58 PM
Please Hunter

Xville
02-15-2023, 08:58 PM
Hell yeah Jerome!!

KabeX
02-15-2023, 09:00 PM
Ugh

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 09:00 PM
FAWK man we had ball up 3 and we don't get a shot and we turn it over and give them 2 free points was lucky ref did not call AND 1 foul on Nunge.

Well got to break press and then get fouled then make 2 FTs then get a stop then get a rebound.

Or we lose a crushing blow

Must get to Boum and he has to be the one fouled

NO TURNOVERS

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:01 PM
Alright… just for once, don’t turn the ball over, make the free throws. Come on boys! 30 seconds and you’re alone at the top

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 09:01 PM
That didn't just happen

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:01 PM
Geezus Christ boum

kellernr
02-15-2023, 09:02 PM
That's the damn play they came up with in the timeout?

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 09:02 PM
It's one thing to lose its another to lose like this

Blue Blooded-05
02-15-2023, 09:02 PM
Unbelievable

xu82
02-15-2023, 09:02 PM
Good coaching gets ……………..OOPS!

kellernr
02-15-2023, 09:02 PM
Love miller, but his late game play calling out of timeouts has been bad

Sent from my SM-S908U using Tapatalk

xukeith
02-15-2023, 09:03 PM
I chalk it up to fatigue. Crap what a good game.

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:03 PM
Alright good foul… I’d rather have the ball with the chance to win anyways lol

BillikenMusketeer
02-15-2023, 09:03 PM
What a choke job.

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 09:04 PM
Off rebound cost us the game

Heart breaking

Blue Blooded-05
02-15-2023, 09:05 PM
Speechless

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:05 PM
Don’t understand making the shot with 8 seconds left.. makes zero sense

xu82
02-15-2023, 09:05 PM
What a choke job.

I prefer disappointing. I’m proud of our reduced squad.

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:06 PM
Welp that sucked. Didn’t expect them to win or even be in the game, but that sucked. They choked that game away.

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 09:07 PM
Don’t understand making the shot with 8 seconds left.. makes zero sense

What part don't you understand ? We were down 1 point if you wait till the buzzer and miss you lose. You have to give yourself a shot at rebound and a shot at fouling them to get another chance if you miss.

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 09:08 PM
Throw to Nunge and have him do Pacer play tip out to Boum or Jones

bjf123
02-15-2023, 09:09 PM
Don’t understand making the shot with 8 seconds left.. makes zero sense

That open, you have to take the layup. Just blew the defense on their drive to the hoop.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:09 PM
What part don't you understand ? We were down 1 point if you wait till the buzzer and miss you lose. You have to give yourself a shot at rebound and a shot at fouling them to get another chance if you miss.

You do it with four or less, it’s dumb. The team is gassed, you miss or make and not have your exhausted team defend yet again. It’s dumb

Xavier
02-15-2023, 09:09 PM
Boum was fantastic until it mattered most. Tough

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 09:10 PM
Really tough loss to take when you are up 3 with ball and 40 seconds left and that series of events went down.

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:10 PM
That open, you have to take the layup. Just blew the defense on their drive to the hoop.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

I understand that but starting the offense with 12 seconds left makes zero sense to me

bjf123
02-15-2023, 09:10 PM
I would have rather been blown out than lose like that.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

xu82
02-15-2023, 09:11 PM
It sucks, but it’s not like we lost to Butler or anything.

letskeepitreal
02-15-2023, 09:11 PM
Huge missed opportunity. I didn’t expect us to win the game prior to it but we should have stole that. We were just too thin tonight.

Blue Blooded-05
02-15-2023, 09:12 PM
I think I would have rather us tried to shoot a half court shot with Boum amid the chaos of their made shot. We’re never good at inbounds plays.

Muskies played like warriors tonight. Nothing to be ashamed of. On to DePaul

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:12 PM
Oh well… win the 3 games at home, get the guys healthy and call it a regular season.

xu82
02-15-2023, 09:13 PM
I would have rather been blown out than lose like that.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Disagree. We proved that even when weakened by injury, we can go toe to toe with anyone in the BE, even on the road. We belonged there. That did not appear to be true the last few years.

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:13 PM
I think I would have rather us tried to shoot a half court shot with Boum amid the chaos of their made shot. We’re never good at inbounds plays.

Muskies played like warriors tonight. Nothing to be ashamed of. On to DePaul


Yeah, just win the games you are supposed to please. No more crap losses

whopper
02-15-2023, 09:13 PM
great effort..missed Claude for sure.

xukeith
02-15-2023, 09:13 PM
Who what have guessed X would be able to keep it close?

X loses by 1 on the road vs. the #11 team in country without a starter(Freemantle), without their 6th man, and 7th man off the bench.

profson
02-15-2023, 09:13 PM
Does everyone FINALLY understand why Tandy should not play.

What a shame. With Freemantle the rebounding issue is mostly solved. With Des the posting and bullying of the guards is reduced.

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 09:14 PM
Up 3 and can't get a shot off turning it over giving them a layup.
Then we inbounds and turn it right over
Then we foul and a 50% FT shooter hits both
We score to go up 1 with just 7 seconds left
Then they drive we can't stop it and they miss but they get tip in

All those things had to go wrong to lose and it happened

I figured we would lose coming in but we got up 13 and held 3 point lead with 40 seconds left with ball...........

You can't lose that game

You have to get a shot up you have to not turn it over up 1 with 29 seconds left so you can get FT's

I am broken right now after that ending.

Caveat
02-15-2023, 09:15 PM
Well, that’ll do it for X as a Top-25 squad.

kxblue
02-15-2023, 09:17 PM
Win the home games, get healthy, get a top 7 seed and let’s roll

When Boum plays like that (minus last 30 seconds), we can play with anyone

XUGRAD80
02-15-2023, 09:18 PM
There is no doubt in my mind that if X is at full strength they win that game.

GreatWhiteNorth
02-15-2023, 09:18 PM
It hurts to lose like that! So many turnovers and not protecting the ball well.

XUGRAD80
02-15-2023, 09:19 PM
Well, that’ll do it for X as a Top-25 squad.

Wanta bet?

Xavier
02-15-2023, 09:19 PM
Well, that’ll do it for X as a Top-25 squad.

Losing by 1 at the #11 team moved the #16 team to unranked? Lol. We probably won’t move at all with a win over DePaul.

Caveat
02-15-2023, 09:20 PM
There is no doubt in my mind that if X is at full strength they win that game.

This team needs Free back in the absolute worst way.

drudy23
02-15-2023, 09:21 PM
Gutty effort - fatigue caused many turnovers and lack of loose balls and multiple shots per possession by Marquette.

Really wish KyKy or Kraft were further along to spell Boum, because he needs some rest.

We had it. Gave it away.

xumadman
02-15-2023, 09:21 PM
Well, that’ll do it for X as a Top-25 squad.

Lol. Nope. We lost to the 11th ranked team in the country (ahead of us) on their home court with 3 less rotation players than normal. We may not move at all.

Strange Brew
02-15-2023, 09:23 PM
Well, that’ll do it for X as a Top-25 squad.

Prob not.

The last two games have been kicks in the crotch.

Go out and beat the ever living hell out of DuPaul on Sat.

Caveat
02-15-2023, 09:25 PM
Losing by 1 at the #11 team moved the #16 team to unranked? Lol. We probably won’t move at all with a win over DePaul.

It’s absolutely no guarantee they win against DePaul playing the way they’re currently playing.

drudy23
02-15-2023, 09:27 PM
It’s absolutely no guarantee they win against DePaul playing the way they’re currently playing.

They just played one of the best defensive games of the year down 3 players. Outside of turnovers, they actually player really well.

With the injuries, you knew this stretch was going to be difficult.

Strange Brew
02-15-2023, 09:30 PM
They just played one of the best defensive games of the year down 3 players. Outside of turnovers, they actually player really well.

With the injuries, you knew this stretch was going to be difficult.

The defense was impressive. Down players and without Kunk down the stretch.

Blue Blooded-05
02-15-2023, 09:31 PM
Does everyone FINALLY understand why Tandy should not play.

Very telling how no one would pass him the ball

XUGRAD80
02-15-2023, 09:31 PM
They just played one of the best defensive games of the year down 3 players. Outside of turnovers, they actually player really well.

With the injuries, you knew this stretch was going to be difficult.

Outside of turnovers AND rebounding…..both things can be partly contributed to fatigue and lack of proper positioning.

Strange Brew
02-15-2023, 09:34 PM
Very telling how no one would pass him the ball

I didn’t think he was the problem. I don’t think there were that many problems. Pretty good game with limited personnel. I would like to see them get to 20 wins on Sat and get the monkey off their back.

Oh, and for good measure. The refs sucked :)

bjf123
02-15-2023, 09:36 PM
I didn’t think he was the problem. I don’t think there were that many problems. Pretty good game with limited personnel. I would like to see them get to 20 wins on Sat and get the monkey off their back.

Oh, and for good measure. The refs sucked :)

I think they’ll be royally pissed against DePaul on Saturday and will win by 25+.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

MHettel
02-15-2023, 09:37 PM
Pretty ugly in my opinion.

The "strip" of Boum late that led to the Intentional foul on Nunge should be a fireable offense for that ref. Clear foul. huge game, biggest play.

The next biggest play was the dumb decision to not take the last shot. we gave them almost 9 seconds down by one?

Rebounding was awful.

I dont expect to win games like this with the current roster. But I dont expect to fumble at the 1 yard line either.

Kolek commits about 5 offensive fouls a game and gets called for none of them.

Wondering if this team can finish close games against high caliber opponents in big games.

MHettel
02-15-2023, 09:38 PM
They just played one of the best defensive games of the year down 3 players. Outside of turnovers, they actually player really well.

With the injuries, you knew this stretch was going to be difficult.

They earned their second place trophy in this one.

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 09:40 PM
I wish they had set it up (maybe they tried) to have Nunge catch and pass it to Boum or Jones for the shot. Maybe not enough time for that but it worked for Valpo in the NCAA tournament a play called Pacer.

All that said the back breakers tonight were turnovers and not getting defensive rebounds and those plays cost us in the end.

Just really tough to take when we could got fouled went to the line to go up 3 and see what happens then but we turn it over.

17 turnovers man

This was a great great game yet another great game Xavier has been in so many damn

I wanted that win so bad I could taste at 2 different times.

When Nunge hit the 3 to go up 6

And then when we got the rebound with 53 seconds left up 3

At both those moments I felt like we had it.

The series of events that had to happen to lose that way and we even scored to get the lead back after giving it up but we couldn't stop the ball for a 2nd straight game they drove it down our throat at the end.

I refuse to accept this loss

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:40 PM
Pretty ugly in my opinion.

The "strip" of Boum late that led to the Intentional foul on Nunge should be a fireable offense for that ref. Clear foul. huge game, biggest play.

The next biggest play was the dumb decision to not take the last shot. we gave them almost 9 seconds down by one?

Rebounding was awful.

I dont expect to win games like this with the current roster. But I dont expect to fumble at the 1 yard line either.

Kolek commits about 5 offensive fouls a game and gets called for none of them.

Wondering if this team can finish close games against high caliber opponents in big games.

Well, they are 5-4 in one possession games this year with wins against UConn, creighton and providence , so yes they can.

Strange Brew
02-15-2023, 09:41 PM
I think they’ll be royally pissed against DePaul on Saturday and will win by 25+.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yep. Ring of fire on Sat.

That said, I’d like to see the crowd at Cintas boo the refs relentlessly on Sat every time they call a foul on X. Between the CU, BU and tonight, it needs to happen.

MHettel
02-15-2023, 09:41 PM
Really wish KyKy or Kraft were further along to spell Boum, because he needs some rest.



how much further along would you like Kyky to be? He's a senior. he doesnt work to get open offensively, doesnt appear to be able to ballhandle, and is targeted on defense. Would he be better next year?

MHettel
02-15-2023, 09:43 PM
Well, they are 5-4 in one possession games this year with wins against UConn, creighton and providence , so yes they can.

HMMM. I'll be back

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:44 PM
Steele broke tandy. The guy was good his freshman year, he broke him his sophomore year and he never recovered.

Strange Brew
02-15-2023, 09:48 PM
Steele broke tandy. The guy was good his freshman year, he broke him his sophomore year and he never recovered.

This is true.

MHettel
02-15-2023, 09:50 PM
Steele broke tandy. The guy was good his freshman year, he broke him his sophomore year and he never recovered.

I dont know how many minutes he played, but Tandy was 1-3 shooting with a rebound, 2 assists, 1 turnover and 2 fouls while playing and important rotation role tonight.

You want to blame that on the former coach? Ok.

I'm going to go with the option that he just isnt good.

Xville
02-15-2023, 09:53 PM
I dont know how many minutes he played, but Tandy was 1-3 shooting with a rebound, 2 assists, 1 turnover and 2 fouls while playing and important rotation role tonight.

You want to blame that on the former coach? Ok.

I'm going to go with the option that he just isnt good.

You’re talking about one game, I was talking about his entire freshman season, one in which he had very good numbers for a freshman. I know it seems like forever ago but going into his sophomore year most of us thought he was going to be a star player as an upper classmen… he played well the first ten games or so… kunkel became eligible and immediately took his minutes and that was that. Confidence was shot and Steele treated him differently than every other player. That was it.

drudy23
02-15-2023, 09:53 PM
how much further along would you like Kyky to be? He's a senior. he doesnt work to get open offensively, doesnt appear to be able to ballhandle, and is targeted on defense. Would he be better next year?

Further along than he is. I'm not blaming anyone (if I had to, I'd also blame the Tin Man), just saying it would be nice to have more bench strength. Ky should be a weapon off the bench by now. It's obvious he's not.

JEHARDI
02-15-2023, 09:59 PM
Wondering if this team can finish close games against high caliber opponents in big games.[/QUOTE]

Creighton/Providence/UConn/Marquette- all close games- all wins. How soon we forget…..

Xavier
02-15-2023, 10:00 PM
I didn’t think kyky played bad tonight.

MHettel
02-15-2023, 10:02 PM
Indiana, Duke, Gonzaga, DePaul, Butler, Marquette.

So, yeah.

Being .500 in close games isnt exactly an indicator for NCAA success.

Xville
02-15-2023, 10:03 PM
I didn’t think kyky played bad tonight.

His defense left a lot to be desired but that’s most of the team on most nights. His offense was meh—nothing particularly good or bad that I saw

MHettel
02-15-2023, 10:03 PM
I didn’t think kyky played bad tonight.

Its because you didnt realize he was playing.

OTRMUSKIE
02-15-2023, 10:03 PM
Great game! I know it’s a loss but my goodness I thought they get destroyed. Very proud of the effort! We win this game with our players back. Marquette def isn’t a top 11 team, if you can’t crush us with what we had available, not sure you’re going to be able to go
Far in the dance. Xavier is going to have a hard time as well if Free can’t play. Win the remaining home games, lose the last two road games and let’s get ready for the dance.

Strange Brew
02-15-2023, 10:04 PM
I didn’t think kyky played bad tonight.

Me neither.

I think little Travy is posting here tonight. :)

Mean mug. :)

Strange Brew
02-15-2023, 10:05 PM
Great game! I know it’s a loss but my goodness I thought they get destroyed. Very proud of the effort! We win this game with our players back. Marquette def isn’t a top 11 team, if you can’t crush us with what we had available, not sure you’re going to be able to go
Far in the dance. Xavier is going to have a hard time as well if Free can’t play. Win the remaining home games, lose the last two road games and let’s get ready for the dance.

Take a shower and shine your shoes boys…

I hope Free can play in a few weeks. Love to see him finally get to play in the Dance.

Xavier
02-15-2023, 10:07 PM
Its because you didnt realize he was playing.

Yeah. That’s exactly what I want from him. But he had a good quick drive and a big assist for a boum 3. Actually didn’t think his defense was any worse than other guards.

Xville
02-15-2023, 10:09 PM
As I keep trying to remind myself.. all most of us wanted was to just get to the dance, it looks like mission will be accomplished. Anything on top of that is gravy. This team is still very flawed in a lot of areas even at full health, so a tourney invite is all I can hope for.

musketeertruths
02-15-2023, 10:16 PM
Does everyone FINALLY understand why Tandy should not play.

What a shame. With Freemantle the rebounding issue is mostly solved. With Des the posting and bullying of the guards is reduced.

Who would suggest take his place? Perhaps Edwards or Miles could play guard. He HAD to play once Kunkel fouled out of the game. I thought he did OK given that he hasn't played a meaningful minute in well over a month. You can't say the same for some of the others.

drudy23
02-15-2023, 10:18 PM
Everyone realized he had to play tonight. The issue is he should be giving this team more at this point in his tenure.

Xavier
02-15-2023, 10:18 PM
Expectations can and should change throughout the year. At one point I thought not getting to sweet 16 would be disappointing….but at this point I’ve chanted to just winning one game. If X doesn’t win one game in March it’s disappointing.

But regardless, this season only excites me more about Sean and having a solid coach. Give him time to get some players in and we are well on our way to that coveted F4

Lloyd Braun
02-15-2023, 10:20 PM
Yeah. That’s exactly what I want from him. But he had a good quick drive and a big assist for a boum 3. Actually didn’t think his defense was any worse than other guards.

Kunk will never be all defense but he was really solid on rotations tonight. Colby played very well on D, Boum was not great. Kyky got crossed over multiple times and was really bad when you look at on the ball defense. He was by far and away the biggest liability and they targeted him. Rewatch the tape and I think you’ll see otherwise.

GoMuskies
02-15-2023, 10:21 PM
Just finished the replay and thought we were terrible honestly. Marquette was just slightly less bad. We need a PG so bad. Boum is horrendous handling the ball.

musketeertruths
02-15-2023, 10:22 PM
Everyone realized he had to play tonight. The issue is he should be giving this team more at this point in his tenure.

I don't disagree. But Sean hasn't gotten what he needs from him. My point is that you can't expect someone who isn't earning valuable minutes to do a lot when he wouldn't even be playing if we had an option.

musketeertruths
02-15-2023, 10:25 PM
Kunk will never be all defense but he was really solid on rotations tonight. Colby played very well on D, Boum was not great. Kyky got crossed over multiple times and was really bad when you look at on the ball defense. He was by far and away the biggest liability and they targeted him. Rewatch the tape and I think you’ll see otherwise.

Kunkel did have some great plays today. He also got beaten to the basket multiple times. And he fouled out, which is typically due to being out of position on defense (yes, I know, soft calls). Tandy wouldn't be playing if he could have stayed on the floor.

MHettel
02-15-2023, 10:27 PM
You’re talking about one game, I was talking about his entire freshman season, one in which he had very good numbers for a freshman. I know it seems like forever ago but going into his sophomore year most of us thought he was going to be a star player as an upper classmen… he played well the first ten games or so… kunkel became eligible and immediately took his minutes and that was that. Confidence was shot and Steele treated him differently than every other player. That was it.

Im talking about 4 years. Steele sucked for sure. If Hunter can be reclaimed off the scrapheap under Miller, then why not Tandy?

GoMuskies
02-15-2023, 10:28 PM
Kunkel fouling out wasn't the worst thing for our offense. He tossed up some terrible shots.

MHettel
02-15-2023, 10:31 PM
As I keep trying to remind myself.. all most of us wanted was to just get to the dance, it looks like mission will be accomplished. Anything on top of that is gravy. This team is still very flawed in a lot of areas even at full health, so a tourney invite is all I can hope for.

Stepping away from tonight, yes, I agree.

But this win was in grasp. That's what matters. Can a team take what's in their grasp? I think this is a .500 team in that regard. Chances of getting 1 tourney win is about the same as getting 3.

Xville
02-15-2023, 10:34 PM
Im talking about 4 years. Steele sucked for sure. If Hunter can be reclaimed off the scrapheap under Miller, then why not Tandy?

Well, then what is your explanation for him playing pretty damn well freshman year, starting out well sophomore year, then getting his minutes taken, and dropping off a cliff? Guys are different.. some can snap out of it, others just can’t once they are broken.

Xville
02-15-2023, 10:35 PM
Stepping away from tonight, yes, I agree.

But this win was in grasp. That's what matters. Can a team take what's in their grasp? I think this is a .500 team in that regard. Chances of getting 1 tourney win is about the same as getting 3.

Sure, but I’ll take just being in the tourney this year. Miller has to get his guys in here. This roster is still extremely flawed imo especially for the rigors of the big East. Miller has done all he can do with this group.

MHettel
02-15-2023, 10:46 PM
Well, then what is your explanation for him playing pretty damn well freshman year, starting out well sophomore year, then getting his minutes taken, and dropping off a cliff? Guys are different.. some can snap out of it, others just can’t once they are broken.

Short answer. Not good enough. never was. Played out of need as a frosh in a system that created 3 pt attempts. Later, could not offset his defensive limits with his shooting. Now, with a new offense, he's just lost and exposed and the open 3's dont come out of the offense.

Thats my explanation. maybe I'm, wrong. Maybe you have a better one. Would love to hear your explanation for his performance.

Xville
02-15-2023, 10:55 PM
Short answer. Not good enough. never was. Played out of need as a frosh in a system that created 3 pt attempts. Later, could not offset his defensive limits with his shooting. Now, with a new offense, he's just lost and exposed and the open 3's dont come out of the offense.

Thats my explanation. maybe I'm, wrong. Maybe you have a better one. Would love to hear your explanation for his performance.

Plausible explanation above. I just seriously think Steele broke him confidence wise and he couldn’t recover. He played 18 minutes a game his freshman year and looked like he belonged even in conference play. Sophomore year before kunkel became eligible he looked pretty good again, then he had a shock to the system and Steele dicked him around.

This is all just conjecture of course and all I can see are the games. The last two years he has looked like a completely different player than his first two years, it’s just odd.

Anyways enough about kyky, I wish all the best for the guy.


Let’s win these home games and go dance

HenryMuto
02-15-2023, 11:10 PM
I wish on that final play Nunge was under the basket what good was it to throw him ball for a 25 foot turn around jumper that was never going in.

Either throw it to Boum or Jones or throw it to Nunge under basket.

DAMN IT just don't turn it over twice at end and we probably win

Or get a damn rebound on the final miss

The difference in a win or loss was worth 2.5 games being up a game or down a game plus tie breaker

Caveat
02-15-2023, 11:43 PM
I just watched the last 10 minutes again because I hate my life.

I no longer know what to make of this team. They’re no longer scoring at a high rate — they’ve been held under 70 in 3 of the last 5 — and they’re playing with very little mental focus / toughness. This team has no identity currently, and they’re in danger of dropping to the 5/6 seed in the BE Tournament.

The frustrating thing is that I don’t see how it can be fixed, other than to pray that Free can come back ahead of schedule and the offense can get back in gear.

This is a throughly mediocre basketball team right now.

Jumpin_Jamal_Forever
02-15-2023, 11:43 PM
Stepping away from tonight, yes, I agree.

But this win was in grasp. That's what matters. Can a team take what's in their grasp? I think this is a .500 team in that regard. Chances of getting 1 tourney win is about the same as getting 3.

Snatched a defeat from the jaws of victory tonight. Boum's misplays hurt us in the final moments. But he won some games for us this year and, until the end, played well tonight. Bench gave us nothing at either end of the floor. Can't wait to get Free back.

Strange Brew
02-16-2023, 12:03 AM
Tough crowd tonight and I get it.

This team is going to the Dance. It’s been a while….

I’d like to enjoy watching these dudes get there after they won the NIT last year.

IM4X
02-16-2023, 01:34 AM
As I keep trying to remind myself.. all most of us wanted was to just get to the dance, it looks like mission will be accomplished. Anything on top of that is gravy. This team is still very flawed in a lot of areas even at full health, so a tourney invite is all I can hope for.

I still see a team that could turn this all around and get to a Final Four. I think what all of us wanted from Steele was to just get a team to the tournament. Once he got canned and that team went on to win the NIT without him… and then most of those players returned… and Sean was back at the helm… I think expectations changed a bit.

They changed even more when Sean got his team to buy his philosophy of passing until they find that better shot. Once that started happening and the team showed they could score tons of points, the expectations became even higher.

No longer is making the tournament enough. Even Sean would tell you it isn’t enough at this point. The defense hasn’t looked too good all season, but the offense has looked quite special in a lot of games. X can play with just about anyone when they are at full strength, mentally prepared (making smart plays) and physically tenacious (out hustling their opponent). Since Sean is getting the big bucks, he knows it is up to him to find a way to get his players humming again for the tournaments.

XUGRAD80
02-16-2023, 06:53 AM
Or get a damn rebound on the final miss



As Miller so well explained on the radio after the game……Nunge left his man to defend the shooter,who had gotten past Hunter, and the other players did not rotate over to box out but instead just watched the play develop. Who were the other players that should have blocked out? Boum and Jones, but specifically Boum. If you watch the replay Boum doesn’t try to block out at all and the Marquette player goes over and through him like he isn’t even there. Even if he had blocked out better it’s doubtful that he would have been successful. He’s just too small and thin to be very effective at it. Best we could have hoped for in that situation was an over the back foul call. I’ll give credit to Marquette for understanding that taking the ball to the rim and having the rest of the team crash the boards was their best play in that situation. I hope that the X players will learn something from watching the film of this play about 1000 times over the next day or so. I’m sure that Miller will make it a point of emphasis.

Xville
02-16-2023, 07:18 AM
I just watched the last 10 minutes again because I hate my life.

I no longer know what to make of this team. They’re no longer scoring at a high rate — they’ve been held under 70 in 3 of the last 5 — and they’re playing with very little mental focus / toughness. This team has no identity currently, and they’re in danger of dropping to the 5/6 seed in the BE Tournament.

The frustrating thing is that I don’t see how it can be fixed, other than to pray that Free can come back ahead of schedule and the offense can get back in gear.

This is a throughly mediocre basketball team right now.

Xavier looks like creighton did earlier in the year without kalkbrenner. You don’t go without one of your best players, on a team with zero depth, and not look like crap most of the time. It’s quite a miracle that they beat providence, and went toe to toe vs Marquette on their home floor. Is what it is at this point. The roster is thin and flawed.

hoopster68
02-16-2023, 07:43 AM
I'm concerned that the Muskies look "gassed" down the stretch in games, resulting in unforced errors, poor shots & sometimes lousy defense. Specifically, Boum, Kunkel & Nunge appear tired. We still have v. difficult games in
February, both home and away. For those more knowledgeable than I am about on-court issues, what can/should be done?

Lloyd Braun
02-16-2023, 07:55 AM
It’s disappointing to lose a game that was in their grasp but this is a mentally tough team that is a couple bodies short. They were a rebound away from beating Marquette at Marquette (a consensus top 15 team) with a bare bones rotation. They slowed the game down to not run out of gas, so their offense didn’t look as well oiled but it really was highly efficient. Marquette went up by 4 with a bit under 4 minutes left. How many of you thought they were going to pull away at that point? Probably most of you. They have some tough road games ahead but they are finding identity as a team that won’t give up. Just need to be physically tougher on the defensive glass against a team like Marquette.

xavierj
02-16-2023, 08:07 AM
I just watched the last 10 minutes again because I hate my life.

I no longer know what to make of this team. They’re no longer scoring at a high rate — they’ve been held under 70 in 3 of the last 5 — and they’re playing with very little mental focus / toughness. This team has no identity currently, and they’re in danger of dropping to the 5/6 seed in the BE Tournament.

The frustrating thing is that I don’t see how it can be fixed, other than to pray that Free can come back ahead of schedule and the offense can get back in gear.

This is a throughly mediocre basketball team right now.

For perspective, in order for Xavier to fall below the 4 seed they would have to go 2-4 or worse the rest of the way and UCONn and Seton Hall would have to win out. Xavier is 4 points away from being 14-1 in the conference. Crazy stuff that no one would have expected prior to the season. Also Xavier hasn’t played it best yet and that is also encouraging. We have seen many times where teams hit a bit of a wall and then they take off. These guys are young so they will be good to go and will hopefully get healthy as March arrives.

XUGRAD80
02-16-2023, 08:18 AM
I'm concerned that the Muskies look "gassed" down the stretch in games, resulting in unforced errors, poor shots & sometimes lousy defense. Specifically, Boum, Kunkel & Nunge appear tired. We still have v. difficult games in
February, both home and away. For those more knowledgeable than I am about on-court issues, what can/should be done?

Of course they are “gassed”. They are worn down and the bench is virtually non-existent. Miller is doing all he can by using his timeouts to give the players breaks. He is working the refs the best he can (asking for video reviews just to stop the game for a few seconds). He is probably spending much more time looking a film with the players than he is running them. Practice time is probably pretty short too. No 2 1/2-3 hour practices, probably half that at the most. I’m sure that the players eating right and getting their rest is something that the coaches are pushing as well. But 2 games in 4 days, which is what they have coming up (Sat-Tues) is going to be a test for sure. Even if it is at home. I’d guess that they play Saturday, have Sunday off except for some film work, and only walk through and shoot a little on Monday before playing Tuesday.

I read that Freemantle did warmups with the team last evening, so that’s good progress. Hopefully he is back for the last week of the season and the BE tourney, and hopefully Claude is back for Saturday. What they need now, more than anything else, is bodies that can play at this level.

It wouldn’t surprise me to see Kunkle come off the bench in Saturday’s game if Claude is available, and see Edwards get the start alongside Nunge and Hunter. They need to be able to rotate the guards a little better at the end of the game, to keep them fresh. Can’t do that if one of them fouls out and Kunk is somewhat foul prone.