2023 College Basketball Transfer Portal

[nickgyp]

I agree with this. What I would like to know is how graduation rates track with portal entries; for all, not just those who donÂ’t find a Home. Or are we not supposed to care anymore?

In a world where the Russians accuse the US of increasing nuclear tensions, Xavier with the forays in the realm of Portals and NIL deals seem trivial. But quite honestly, we are talking about teenagers and young athletes in their early twenties ostensibly thinking about getting a college education. These bidding wars for students is ugly. I was appalled when Andrew Gaze played one season at Seton Hall and after losing to Michigan in the NCAA finals, the next day headed back to Australia to play for its national team.

Cheering the old alma mater is not quite the same.

[XUGRAD80]

There are definitely going to be SOME businesses that expect a return on investment and are going to be paying attention to it. it’s definitely not going to be just some rich people just throwing money at a school because they love the school.

We aren’t talking about slipping the kids a hundred dollar handshake or even a few thousand dollars to buy a plane ticket. We are talking hundreds of thousands of dollars in some cases. Something in return is going to be expected.

[D-West & PO-Z]

There are definitely going to be SOME businesses that expect a return on investment and are going to be paying attention to it. it’s definitely not going to be just some rich people just throwing money at a school because they love the school.

Yeah, I agree, that is exactly what I said. There will absolutely be SOME businesses expecting a ROI. Some who do may decide it wsn't worth it. Not sure what Turbo Tax thought of their ROI on Colby Jones.

The majority of the NIL money though, imo, is going to be coming from smaller amounts from many fans (big fan base helps) and rich alum who love their teams.

I am guessing X has a collective we can all donate to right now, correct? Anyone have a link for that?

[IM4X]

I would love Nunge, Free, and Hunter back. But we absolutely need a better, beefier big who can defend. Now if all those guys return, we aren't going to likely entice a star big man to come, but we need to find someone who can provide that in a backup role getting 10-15 mins or so a game.

Maybe I am wrong and if all 3 are back there is no room, but I think it is a big need still. Plus you're one injury away again from no depth in the frontcourt.

I am all for grabbing a wider body big. Still, I love our three down low and my first choice is having those three back plus an another physical big who has at least two years of eligibility. While we can’t count on it, it is possible Nzeh may be solid enough his freshman year m for 10-15 minutes a game if need, too.

[Muskie in dayton]

Yeah, I agree, that is exactly what I said. There will absolutely be SOME businesses expecting a ROI. Some who do may decide it wsn't worth it. Not sure what Turbo Tax thought of their ROI on Colby Jones.

The majority of the NIL money though, imo, is going to be coming from smaller amounts from many fans (big fan base helps) and rich alum who love their teams.

I am guessing X has a collective we can all donate to right now, correct? Anyone have a link for that?
Yes, from an e-mail Christopher sent a couple days ago:

FINAL 2% LLC. This tax deductible "collective" helps to facilitate promotional and NIL opportunities for Xavier student-athletes and brings awareness to important local organizations and charities.
https://final2percent.com/?utm_medium=email&elq_cid=570&ehash=7c6de3c5bed1e41ba4a1a3a9310dc32a3c41a2fb20f5 e817234eea4c375ee299

[XUBison]

I didn't see your post before I posted mine. But I think you are 1000% spot on. This is essentially the boosters under the table that went on for decades, but now legal.

I think concerns about ROI, etc are overblown. I think there are some businesses that see an opportunity for marketing and social media exposure from a star athlete (or social media star like the LSU gymnast) but the majority are just rich fans who want their teams to be good. Or larges fanbases who donate in big numbers in small amounts of donations to their schools NIL collective.

Then, what does any of that have to do with selling your name, image, or likeness? Sounds more like they are being paid to play basketball.

[IM4X]

Jerome isnÂ’t going anywhere. Jack I’ll take back if itÂ’s 20-25 minutes a game. If it’s between him and Ike, IÂ’ll take ike every day of the week and twice on Sunday. Need a guy who has seen the inside of a weight room down low. HeÂ’s the perfect compliment to free if he should stick around.


Oh, how quickly we forget.

I am not against picking up Ike. Just no way I’d take him in an “either, or” situation with Nunge. Let’s remember he is transferring from an average team in a that plays in a weaker conference than X. Not only is Nunge already part of the Xavier family, he has proven he can play and succeed at the BE level. He and Zack and Jerome knocked off the NCAA champions twice this year. Who has Ike beaten this year?

Ike may be a stud, but I have yet to find video that shows him being anywhere near as tough and dominant as people are hyping him to be… where he’s out missing in the low post and playing above the rim. I’m not really seeing it. I also read he is not a shot blocker- which is something we need - something Nunge has in his arsenal of skills.

I think if you had replaced Nunge with Ike this season, it’s very possible we may not have made the dance. That’s how important Nunge was to our team. He’s good inside, from midrange and from behind the arc. He blocks shots, passes extremely well and can play above the rim. Nunge was crucial to our success - as weÂ’re Zack and Jerome. Those three played great ball this year for X and and they will always be my boys.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Then, what does any of that have to do with selling your name, image, or likeness? Sounds more like they are being paid to play basketball.

You are right, that is pretty much what it is.

In an ideal world NIL would have been nothing more than athletes already in college could get money for autographs, or commercials if a company wanted them to be in one, or selling their own merchandise, or getting paid when their school sells their jersey with their name etc. Getting money in one of these ways or any other dozen ways instead of being told they couldn't.

Unfortunately of course it turned into schools having to drive the bus on finding opportunities for these guys and securing the funding in a way in order to entice them to come. Which has created this bidding war type situation for recruits and transfers.

[Xuperman]

ON3 does a fantastic job of adding up to the minute portal entries.....Davenport now portaled.

However, they seem to be just a rumor mill with their predictions. They had Kriisa 100% X. They had Ike 100% Colorado... Now 99.9% Providence. Dickinson 100% Maryland?

[BandAid]

There’s only two college basketball players I’d be interested in if I was a national brand trying to get some good ROI - and they’re both women.

[MHettel]

You are right, that is pretty much what it is.

In an ideal world NIL would have been nothing more than athletes already in college could get money for autographs, or commercials if a company wanted them to be in one, or selling their own merchandise, or getting paid when their school sells their jersey with their name etc. Getting money in one of these ways or any other dozen ways instead of being told they couldn't.

Unfortunately of course it turned into schools having to drive the bus on finding opportunities for these guys and securing the funding in a way in order to entice them to come. Which has created this bidding war type situation for recruits and transfers.

Hmm. Changed your tune, apparently.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Hmm. Changed your tune, apparently.

Not at all. I want players to be able to make as much as they possibly can. In an ideal world the schools wouldn't need to be the ones arranging it. We don't live in an ideal world. I will take the NIL structure we have now forever over going back to before NIL.

[Xavgrad08]

Being reported Ryan Nembhardt intends to enter the portal. Not good for Creighton.

[xu82]

Every season is going to be like a new pickup game at the YMCA. I don’t blame Jay wright for going into the booth. Not one little bit.

[xudash]

Being reported Ryan Nembhardt intends to enter the portal. Not good for Creighton.

I am truly mentally checked out on all of this. I find that to be rather remarkable.

[X-band '01]

Being reported Ryan Nembhardt intends to enter the portal. Not good for Creighton.


I am truly mentally checked out on all of this. I find that to be rather remarkable.

That makes me wonder who Greg McDermott has coming in for next year; I didn't see that coming at all.

[Xville]

That makes me wonder who Greg McDermott has coming in for next year; I didn't see that coming at all.

Me thinks he ends up at Arizona. Relationship with Lloyd and they need a pg

[OTRMUSKIE]

Rumor is Davenport from UC is coming to X , any truth?

[Blue Blooded-05]

How long before the IRS shuts down a player for unpaid taxes from a NIL deal? Assuming they’re 1099, I wouldn’t be surprised if their effective tax rate is 25% - 30% as a single filer between federal, state, local and double sided FICA. Doubt anyone is reminding these kids to pay their quarterlies.

[D-West & PO-Z]

How long before the IRS shuts down a player for unpaid taxes from a NIL deal? Assuming they’re 1099, I wouldn’t be surprised if their effective tax rate is 25% - 30% as a single filer between federal, state, local and double sided FICA. Doubt anyone is reminding these kids to pay their quarterlies.

You don't think the schools do any education with the players on that??

[XUGRAD80]

Rumor is Davenport from UC is coming to X , any truth?

I hope not. The next time he doesn’t take a 3 when he thinks he’s open, will be the 1st time. I went to a lot of UC games with my buddies and we got to a point where we had a drinking game set up…..every time he took a shot, we took a drink. Some games we sucked down our beers in record time.

Most UC fans are happy to see him go……addition by subtraction.

[Blue Blooded-05]

You don't think the schools do any education with the players on that??

Educating a 19 year old about tax withholding after they were just given a check for $100K will go about as well as educating them about abstinence when there is a naked girl in their bed.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Educating a 19 year old about tax withholding after they were just given a check for $100K will go about as well as educating them about abstinence when there is a naked girl in their bed.

Honestly with what these guys can make now, I would be shocked if Xavier's athletic dept didn't provide a tax guy to do it for them.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I hope not. The next time he doesn’t take a 3 when he thinks he’s open, will be the 1st time. I went to a lot of UC games with my buddies and we got to a point where we had a drinking game set up…..every time he took a shot, we took a drink. Some games we sucked down our beers in record time.

Most UC fans are happy to see him go……addition by subtraction.

Don't know enough about him, but what I do know, if there is a coach we KNOW can get guys who were chuckers to not be anymore and play within the offense it is Miller. Our Miller, not Milwaukee's Best over in Clifton.

[IM4X]

Educating a 19 year old about tax withholding after they were just given a check for $100K will go about as well as educating them about abstinence when there is a naked girl in their bed.


Pretty much what I was thinking.

I have no idea how this will all will work, but unless the school basically assigns a person to make sure each player is paying their proper amount of taxes and doing it on time, I can see how this can grow into an even bigger mess than most have expected it to would become.m

[drudy23]

Rumor is Davenport from UC is coming to X , any truth?

I really hope you're trying stir the pot by getting everyone's reaction to this.

If this is true....it can't be true.

[XUBison]

You don't think the schools do any education with the players on that??

Says the guy who thinks all the players were cheating and taking cash all the while. What a joke.

[XUGRAD80]

College athletes are given opportunities to attend instruction seminars regarding NCAA rules. Presenting these seminars is usually left up to the Compliance Dept. I’d be shocked if the NIL and tax information haven’t been made a part of these seminars, or is being introduced via separate seminars. Now what these young people do with that information is a whole separate discussion, but I’m pretty confident that schools are at the very least making this information available, if not even requiring that the student-athletes attend said seminars and sign off that they have been advised about tax requirements.

One thing that the schools CAN’T do is provide tax services to the student-athletes, unless they do this for ALL students. To do so would be to be providing extra benefits to the athletes, something that is forbidden. One thing they CAN do is to EDUCATE the athletes on the need to pay taxes and advise them on finding a tax professional.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Says the guy who thinks all the players were cheating and taking cash all the while. What a joke.

You're not making any sense.

[XUBison]

You're not making any sense.
I’m happy to expound– You think all these players wouldn’t bother to comply with NCAA rules (which seems more than a little racist,), but now they’re going to comply with IRS rules?

[Xville]

I’m happy to expound– You think all these players wouldn’t bother to comply with NCAA rules (which seems more than a little racist,), but now they’re going to comply with IRS rules?

Wow race card? Seriously? You really think players widespread weren’t getting money for decades upon decades? Wooden had a bag man ffs. The naivity with some of you is astounding

[flatspat]

Caleb Love to Michigan

[XUGRAD80]

You really think players widespread weren’t getting money for decades upon decades? Wooden had a bag man ffs. The naivity with some of you is astounding

I do not think that it was widespread at THAT level. The NCAA rule book is so extensive, and so out of date in many ways, that virtually every collegiate athlete has gotten something that went beyond what was allowed in the rules….even if it was just a free can of coke.

However the rumors of bags of money flowing and the other stories of illegal gifts and payoffs are way overblown and only involve a tiny fraction of collage athletes. Probably only the top 10% of football and BB players and even a much smaller % of the other athletes.

I’ve no problem with athletes being able to make money off their NIL or their skills. I would have loved to have been able to be paid for putting on clinics during the off season, but instead we did them for free. I spent hundreds of hours during my time in college, during the summers, helping to organize tournaments and being a referee for free at them, and never got paid a dime, even though there was thousands of dollars in entry fees flowing around some of them. (Imagine a summer tournament with 500+ entries at $20 a person. Not uncommon at all)I never knew of anyone that was paid under the table in college, and I’ve yet to know anyone I coached afterwards to have received anything either. I’ve heard of it happening, but it’s always been about some other program or some other school. I’ve no doubt that at some schools and under some coaches it has happened, and continues to happen. But I don’t think that it’s been the norm, but has rather been the exception, more often than not.

[Blue Blooded-05]

Wow race card? Seriously? You really think players widespread weren’t getting money for decades upon decades? Wooden had a bag man ffs. The naivity with some of you is astounding

I don’t think anyone is naive to that. Bags full of cash and $100 handshakes were untraceable and tax free. Now, companies ponying up cash for NIL are deducting the cost as a marketing expense. Uncle Sam is going to want to see the income recognition on the other side of that transaction.

NIL money is 1099. No required withholding and high rates as a single filer across fed/state/local/double FICA. At least NBA players are W2 and have required withholding. I hope I’m wrong, but I am guessing there are going to be a lot of surprises in the next few weeks.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I’m happy to expound– You think all these players wouldn’t bother to comply with NCAA rules (which seems more than a little racist,), but now they’re going to comply with IRS rules?

Ha, what a hilarious post.

I never once said all players didn't bother to comply with NCAA rules. You're just making shit up.

And there are white and black (and others) that play college sports, you realize that right? Never once did I mention anything about any particular group of athletes not following the then rules.

You have some issues man.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Probably only the top 10% of football and BB players

You realize that amounts to thousands of college athletes a year, right?

[D-West & PO-Z]

I don’t think anyone is naive to that. Bags full of cash and $100 handshakes were untraceable and tax free. Now, companies ponying up cash for NIL are deducting the cost as a marketing expense. Uncle Sam is going to want to see the income recognition on the other side of that transaction.

NIL money is 1099. No required withholding and high rates as a single filer across fed/state/local/double FICA. At least NBA players are W2 and have required withholding. I hope I’m wrong, but I am guessing there are going to be a lot of surprises in the next few weeks.

1. I do think there are plenty of people naive to that, many on this board.

2. I think you bring up great points about tax implications and one can only hope players are getting the education they need and doing what they need to do.

Let's all please stop pretending like we care about tax implications around these kids making money. No one cares about that. It is just another thing to bring up to use as an excuse that some people are just mad players now want/expect, and can make big money. For whatever reason, that is their prerogative. But it isn't going anywhere, as the legal minds have ruled. NCAA shit the bed and created a bigger issue by burying their heads in the sand.

[XUGRAD80]

You realize that amounts to thousands of college athletes a year, right?

I was being very generous in that 10%. I’d really be surprised if it is anywhere near that. I really don’t think that everyone in the top 100 of BB recruits was getting paid. I mean, X has gotten some top 100 players that certainly weren’t worth paying for. There are a lot of top 50 players that have entered the transfer portal after 1-2 years at their schools and not doing much, too. I kind of wonder if they were told that their extra benefits would no longer be coming? Probably more like the top 3-4%, and only at a handful of schools on a regular basis. I don’t doubt that some of the traditional powers have long histories of embellishments to top student athletes.

But it certainly WAS happening, and probably happening more often and for more people, than most people realize. It was much worse 40-50 years ago in the 70’s and 80’s before they put a lot more rules and regulations in and increased the enforcement. I wonder how many people realize that in the very early days of college football that employing professionals was common and there was no NCAA or other centralized system of governing for college sports? It’s kind of like racing, right? If you ain’t cheating, then you ain’t trying.

[xudash]

Just as a quick note, the Big East holds an outstanding orientation program every year for incoming basketball freshmen in NYC at BE Intergalactic Headquarters. Perhaps they're working the NIL topic into the agenda. Perhaps not.

[Xville]

Well, it’s the end of the week and once again Mor’s words ring hollow. Guy needs to change his screen name to master of bullshit.

[joe titan]

Don't know enough about him, but what I do know, if there is a coach we KNOW can get guys who were chuckers to not be anymore and play within the offense it is Miller. Our Miller, not Milwaukee's Best over in Clifton.

XUGRAD80 is very correct; not only did Davenport chuck it up ALL the time, the rest of his so-called game was as Skip might say less than stellar. No one @ UC wanted him back and their Miller was not naive about telling Davenport better look around. He would be wasted scholly for 1 year @XU.

[drudy23]

Well, it’s the end of the week and once again Mor’s words ring hollow. Guy needs to change his screen name to master of bullshit.

I'll admit I was anticipating some awesome things this week and....nothing.

[xuphan]

Well, it’s the end of the week and once again Mor’s words ring hollow. Guy needs to change his screen name to master of bullshit.

The Logan Duncomb news wasn’t exciting enough?

[xavierj]

I'll admit I was anticipating some awesome things this week and....nothing.

1300 players have entered the portal and only 115 have committed to a new place. Still have another month for guys to enter the portal. It’s not even close to getting interesting yet. St. John’s booted its entire team and they have not landed anyone yet. It’s all going on behind the scenes. Xavier will land a couple of guys they want, it it won’t be a ton of guys. My guess is 2 transfers and one international guy. I also think Jack, Zach and Jerome will return, so that would be better than most transfers.

[drudy23]

The Logan Duncomb news wasn’t exciting enough?

Only if we match that with Davenport too.

[xuphan]

1300 players have entered the portal and only 115 have committed to a new place. Still have another month for guys to enter the portal. It’s not even close to getting interesting yet. St. John’s booted its entire team and they have not landed anyone yet. It’s all going on behind the scenes. Xavier will land a couple of guys they want, it it won’t be a ton of guys. My guess is 2 transfers and one international guy. I also think Jack, Zach and Jerome will return, so that would be better than most transfers.

We did make the final 4 for the top ranked PG in the portal Taran Armstrong. A 6’6 PG who is an excellent passer. Would be an excellent addition to the team.

[paulxu]

I grow weary of players announcing lists of possible schools, then "narrowing" it down to this or that 4 or 5.

So much nonsense.

[JTG]

I grow weary of players announcing lists of possible schools, then "narrowing" it down to this or that 4 or 5.

So much nonsense.

I agree. Not even sure how X made the list, maybe the Miller Effect. Really not sure how Prov made the list. Maybe it's just me but I don't consider Prov to be much more than a field of 68 one game wonder.

[Xville]

I grow weary of players announcing lists of possible schools, then "narrowing" it down to this or that 4 or 5.

So much nonsense.

I agree. When you are in high school and doing this that is one thing but when you are on to your second and third school, it’s ridiculous.

Admittedly I have never seen this kid play, but his stats and the fact he is 6’6 and only weighs 190 doesn’t impress me especially when he can’t shoot.

[Final4]

Well, it’s the end of the week and once again Mor’s words ring hollow. Guy needs to change his screen name to master of bullshit.

If you guess at things enough times you would think that at some point you would get something right. He'll probably announce tomorrow that he meant to say that we'll hear big news this week not last week. At the same time he'll also probably remind everyone that he is a big donor.

[X-band '01]

Just as a quick note, the Big East holds an outstanding orientation program every year for incoming basketball freshmen in NYC at BE Intergalactic Headquarters. Perhaps they're working the NIL topic into the agenda. Perhaps not.

Usually associate commissioner Stu Jackson would head that up for the Big East. That's going to change now that Jackson will be the new commissioner of the WCC.

[XUGRAD80]

I grow weary of players announcing lists of possible schools, then "narrowing" it down to this or that 4 or 5.

So much nonsense.

A lot of times that comes from a website writer asking the kid to name his top schools. Its not from the kid making an announcement or holding a news conference.

[GIMMFD]

Any news on the big guy from Wyoming before I hammer Xavier to make the Final Four next year at +1200 with a little sprinkle of National Champs at +4500; let's get us a silent commit or something already haha. I do find this portal season to be really interesting, Caleb Love with all of his downsides and upsides going to Michigan, there being a slight exodus in and out of Michigan especially with Hunter Dickinson wanting to transfer, it's almost impossible to keep up with. I obviously trust Miller will get the right guys, because *cough* Souley *cough* but would love some more news on this front rather than trying to see what other big name has jumped into the portal.

[GoMuskies]

Hailey Van Lith is in the portal. It's all coming together for Billi and the women's program!

[Masterofreality]

Hailey Van Lith is in the portal. It's all coming together for Billi and the women's program!

Even the Louisewer spreads to the women’s program.

[Xville]

Even the Louisewer spreads to the women’s program.

Cool story. Where’s all that stuff that you said was going to happen this week?

[xuphan]

Cool story. Where’s all that stuff that you said was going to happen this week?

Logan Duncomb?

[bleedXblue]

cool story. Where’s all that stuff that you said was going to happen this week?

lol

[xavierj]

Saw on Twitter that Dayvion McKnight from Western KY is expected to commit to Xavier and Kadin Shedrick wants to visit Xavier and has them in his top 4 with Duke, Texas, and Missouri. I also think Quincy Olivari from Rice could end up at Xavier. Would imagine there will be a lot of guys hit the portal this week.

[Xville]

Saw on Twitter that Dayvion McKnight from Western KY is expected to commit to Xavier and Kadin Shedrick wants to visit Xavier and has them in his top 4 with Duke, Texas, and Missouri. I also think Quincy Olivari from Rice could end up at Xavier. Would imagine there will be a lot of guys hit the portal this week.

That’s exciting about McKnight… we’ll see. Another Logan type though ( no clue why duke or Texas would be interested in him) on the inside makes me think that all three of the guys are
Coming back and x is looking at depth pieces. Really wish x would get some beef in there, but maybe nunge will be even more effective with guys that can actually play some backup minutes.

[xavierj]

That’s exciting about McKnight… we’ll see. Another Logan type though ( no clue why duke or Texas would be interested in him) on the inside makes me think that all three of the guys are
Coming back and x is looking at depth pieces. Really wish x would get some beef in there, but maybe nunge will be even more effective with guys that can actually play some backup minutes.

Shedrick would be a great depth piece. Good defender and blocks shots. The kid from Rice is a big strong guard that put up 28 on Texas and 27 on FAU this year. He would be a great piece in my opinion.

[Xavier]

I thought he was likely going to Auburn? And I see everyone picking McKnight to X as a lock at this point

[Xuperman]

Keonte Kennedy in the portal AGAIN. Would be crazy if he made the full circle back to X and there is the UTEP Boum effect.

[xavierj]

I thought he was likely going to Auburn? And I see everyone picking McKnight to X as a lock at this point

Not sure. Auburn just landed a transfer who is the same size basically and plays the same position. Xavier coaches visited him last week and I think he is supposed to visit X.

[xavbball]

Dayvion McKnight commits to X.

https://twitter.com/TiptonEdits/status/1645471781744934912

[Xville]

Dayvion McKnight commits to X.

https://twitter.com/TiptonEdits/status/1645471781744934912

Great pickup. Strong, gets to the line and makes them, decent outside shooter, good rebounder for his position. Only knock I see is potentially turns the ball over a little too much

[Masterofreality]

Sean & Dante were with him this weekend at First Watch at Kenwood. If you want X news just hang out there. Seems to be Sean's go to place.
Guess Dayvion liked his Breakfast.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Sean & Dante were with him this weekend at First Watch at Kenwood. If you want X news just hang out there. Seems to be Sean's go to place.
Guess Dayvion liked his Breakfast.

Please be sure to get Nunge and a dominating BIG to First Watch within next two weeks.

[xuphan]

Sean & Dante were with him this weekend at First Watch at Kenwood. If you want X news just hang out there. Seems to be Sean's go to place.
Guess Dayvion liked his Breakfast.

Don’t blame Sean and Dante one bit. Love First Watch.

[D-West & PO-Z]

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/2023/04/09/virginia-transfer-kadin-shedrick-has-xavier-duke-texas-missouri-and-kansas-state-among-finalists/70097694007/

UVA big man has X in his final 5.

[xukeith]

Seems like a strong guard. He does turn the ball over a tad too much. Hope X surrounding players can benefit from his driving and dishing.

[IM4X]

McNight has a nice stroke and a quick release. Looks every capable of creating his own shot. Would love to find out he plays a bit more above the rim than what I’ve seen in the one video I watched. Still, he does look like a very capable bucket getter and someone who could be a key contributor on a team that has aspirations to get to the Final Four and beyond.

Welcome to the family Dayvion! Let’s Go X!

[IM4X]

Does getting McNight mean Taran Armstrong is no longer an option? I liked his game a lot too.

I know we need at least two guards, but both are listed as PG. I like Olivari too. Let’s get all three.

[Masterofreality]

McNight has a nice stroke and a quick release. Looks every capable of creating his own shot. Would love to find out he plays a bit more above the rim than what I’ve seen in the one video I watched. Still, he does look like a very capable bucket getter and someone who could be a key contributor on a team that has aspirations to get to the Final Four and beyond.

Welcome to the family Dayvion! Let’s Go X!

He’s 6:1. Doubt he’ll be playing “above the rim”.
Hopefully he is Tu-like

[Masterofreality]

Does getting McNight mean Taran Armstrong is no longer an option? I liked his game a lot too.

I know we need at least two guards, but both are listed as PG. I like Olivari too. Let’s get all three.

Taran Armstrong is 6:6. Different player. We still have to replace Kunk at SG.
It might be that Armstrong plays point at 6:6 and McNight plays SG. In Sean I trust

[muskiefan82]

Miller has said he REALLY wants 2 point guards who can also score.

[Xville]

Does getting McNight mean Taran Armstrong is no longer an option? I liked his game a lot too.

I know we need at least two guards, but both are listed as PG. I like Olivari too. Let’s get all three.

To me, it looks like olivari would be a better compliment to mcknight’s commitment. Taran doesn’t seem to be a good shooter, and already have green coming in. I’d think x would be looking for a good outside shooter at that second guard spot.

[MHettel]

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/college/xavier/2023/04/09/virginia-transfer-kadin-shedrick-has-xavier-duke-texas-missouri-and-kansas-state-among-finalists/70097694007/

UVA big man has X in his final 5.

big time rim protector. a year ago averaged 1.9 blks in like 20 mpg. Me likey!

[MHettel]

I like the commitment of McKnight, however its pretty obvious that he's not a shooter. All 5 of our starters could shoot last year and Boum and Kunkel were very good (approaching 40%). McKnight is a career 31% shooter. Not a guy you want taking a bunch of 3s. looks like he wants to drive and draw contact, which is fine with me.

But we need a shooter now out of the portal.

The big from UVA never shoots 3s at all. We dont have to take alot of 3's (ahem...paging Travis Steele), but we need to have the THREAT of taking 3s.

[BandDad]

Agreed he is not a great shooter. He has been at 34% the last two years after 18% his freshman year, so a little better. I have seen a handful of Western Kentucky games and they left the ball in his hands a lot, so he may have had to hoist a few at the end of the clock in desperation, which may have decreased that percentage a little. Also may be why he has a little higher turnover percentage.

[MHettel]

Agreed he is not a great shooter. He has been at 34% the last two years after 18% his freshman year, so a little better. I have seen a handful of Western Kentucky games and they left the ball in his hands a lot, so he may have had to hoist a few at the end of the clock in desperation, which may have decreased that percentage a little. Also may be why he has a little higher turnover percentage.

McKnight takes 12% of his shots from 3. Boum was at 46% last year, and Kunkel was at 53%.

Mcknight is not a shooter. And, if your theory that he is sometimes forced into shot clock ending 3 attempts, then I would say that he then almost never even attempts one ASIDE from that situation.

33% is the danger territory for a shooter. Those are the guys that can go 1-7 in a game and single handedly lose it for you....

[XUGRAD80]

He was 1st team all-CUSA the year before last…..the same year that Boum was 2nd team.

Not saying he will be another Boum, but who really expected Boum to be what he turned out to be?

I just say welcome to X and hope you have a fantastic career here and a wonderful experience.

[Xville]

Good gawd he averaged less than two 3s attempted a game. He’s not going to shoot anyone out of a game. He knows where his bread is buttered which is driving to the hoop making layups or getting fouled and making the free throws. He’s a bulldog, which frankly is a better fit for the big East and postseason play than boum was. People figured boum out toward the end of the season.

[xu82]

Good gawd he averaged less than two 3s attempted a game. He’s not going to shoot anyone out of a game. He knows where his bread is buttered which is driving to the hoop making layups or getting fouled and making the free throws. He’s a bulldog, which frankly is a better fit for the big East and postseason play than boum was. People figured boum out toward the end of the season.

I haven’t looked yet, but I’ll tell you what I find more important than his 3 pt %: His FT %. THAT is how you close games out. The guy with the ball needs to be trusted to end the game. We will need deep shooters for sure, but ball handlers need to drain the game clinching shots from the line.

Miller got Hunter to do what he does best. Kudos to both of them. I trust him to play to everyone’s strengths.

[Xville]

I haven’t looked yet, but I’ll tell you what I find more important than his 3 pt %: His FT %. THAT is how you close games out. The guy with the ball needs to be trusted to end the game. We will need deep shooters for sure, but ball handlers need to drain the game clinching shots from the line.

Miller got Hunter to do what he does best. Kudos to both of them. I trust him to play to everyone’s strengths.

That’s precisely what I meant by the fact he knows where his bread is buttered. 84% last season; career 81% and better fg% from 2 because unlike boum, he can play thru contact. Boum was a heck of a player, but he had faults as well, one was he never saw the inside of a weight room, and second he was a garbage defender

[Three Point Pete]

Does getting McNight mean Taran Armstrong is no longer an option? I liked his game a lot too.

I know we need at least two guards, but both are listed as PG. I like Olivari too. Let’s get all three.Since Nembhard entered the transfer portal, the Jays need a PG and Armstrong probably wants to play for a top 10 team.

Sent from my SM-A326U using Tapatalk

[MHettel]

Good gawd he averaged less than two 3s attempted a game. He’s not going to shoot anyone out of a game. He knows where his bread is buttered which is driving to the hoop making layups or getting fouled and making the free throws. He’s a bulldog, which frankly is a better fit for the big East and postseason play than boum was. People figured boum out toward the end of the season.

I don’t understand your comment. He doesn’t shoot from deep very often and he doesn’t shoot from deep very well. But we do need guys that can shoot from deep. It might not work too well if we just told him to start jacking up 6 threes a game. We saw Carter and Hunter try that and frankly our team was abysmal.

[IM4X]

He’s 6:1. Doubt he’ll be playing “above the rim”.
Hopefully he is Tu-like

I know someone who’d be laughing if he read that remark.

https://twitter.com/XavierMBB/status/1451702297415745539

[IM4X]

Taran Armstrong is 6:6. Different player. We still have to replace Kunk at SG.
It might be that Armstrong plays point at 6:6 and McNight plays SG. In Sean I trust

Would love to have them both. Just thought they were both locked in at playing PG.

[IM4X]

Since Nembhard entered the transfer portal, the Jays need a PG and Armstrong probably wants to play for a top 10 team.

Sent from my SM-A326U using Tapatalk

All the more reason he ought to come to X.

[Xville]

I don’t understand your comment. He doesn’t shoot from deep very often and he doesn’t shoot from deep very well. But we do need guys that can shoot from deep. It might not work too well if we just told him to start jacking up 6 threes a game. We saw Carter and Hunter try that and frankly our team was abysmal.

We agree. Honestly I read some comments a bit incorrectly yesterday and was a little on edge after the events here in Louisville. Apologies.

I’m excited about the commitment, and agree we need a shooter now, which is why I’d rather have someone other than Armstrong. We have Claude, McKnight and green to handle the ball and drive the lane, I’d like to have an experienced shooter now along with a beefy big.

[xavierj]

We agree. Honestly I read some comments a bit incorrectly yesterday and was a little on edge after the events here in Louisville. Apologies.

I’m excited about the commitment, and agree we need a shooter now, which is why I’d rather have someone other than Armstrong. We have Claude, McKnight and green to handle the ball and drive the lane, I’d like to have an experienced shooter now along with a beefy big.

Quincy Olivari would be perfect. 6’3” 200 lbs and a career 38% three point shooter on around 6 threes a game. Apparently a good defender as well with a lot of experience.

[Xville]

Quincy Olivari would be perfect. 6’3” 200 lbs and a career 38% three point shooter on around 6 threes a game. Apparently a good defender as well with a lot of experience.

Agreed. He seems like a great compliment to McKnight. I’m excited about what I hear regarding mcknight’s d as well. It was extremely frustrating watching guys blow by our guards every game


Having said that I think Olivari is probably not x’s to lose… seems like an outlier compared to the other finalists.

[XUGRAD80]

Green is reputed to be a GREAT shooter, some have him as the BEST shooter in his class. However, he will still only be a freshman and will have to learn to shoot over (around) mobile 6’5-6’6” guards and wings on the college level. I do expect Claude to be improved as a shooter and to be more willing to shoot when open, and if so that will help. But I’d still love to see X bring in a couple of more really good and experienced shooters via the transfer portal.

More than anything else, I think that last year showed that over the course of a season it is really important to have quality depth at every position. Injuries, sickness, and slumps are going to happen to every team. One of the reasons that UConn won the championship is that they got healthy at the END of the season and could withstand foul trouble or some sickness and still put a very strong team out on the floor. Building quality depth should be a goal for X at this point.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Since Nembhard entered the transfer portal, the Jays need a PG and Armstrong probably wants to play for a top 10 team.

Sent from my SM-A326U using Tapatalk

I thought I heard Kaluma was transferring as well, then I couldn't find anything about it except rumors. Rumors on twitter have more Creighton transfers to come. No idea if true tho.

[Xville]

I thought I heard Kaluma was transferring as well, then I couldn't find anything about it except rumors. Rumors on twitter have more Creighton transfers to come. No idea if true tho.

Maybe it’s a simple players don’t love McDermott and think he’s slimy. That’s how he comes off to me. I’m sure there is more to it than that, but I don’t know.

[xavierj]

I thought I heard Kaluma was transferring as well, then I couldn't find anything about it except rumors. Rumors on twitter have more Creighton transfers to come. No idea if true tho.

Kaluma is from Phoenix so people speculating he will go to Arizona as well. He is also thinking about going pro from what I heard. Scheierman may also not come back.

[bobbiemcgee]

Dayvion McKnight

https://www.bannersontheparkway.com/2023/4/10/23677468/xavier-lands-dayvion-mcknight-western-kentucky-transfer-basketball

[Xville]

Dayvion McKnight

https://www.bannersontheparkway.com/2023/4/10/23677468/xavier-lands-dayvion-mcknight-western-kentucky-transfer-basketball

Thought most of that analysis was terrible and not accurate unless someone wants to prove otherwise. He said McKnight shot more than boum to score the same amount of points… not remotely true nor was he a worse shooter from all over the court. Yes he’s not a three point shooter but his 2 pt fg pct was higher than boum last season.

In reality he shot over a hundred less 3s and less than 20 more 2s. He scored about 60 less points but had 4 less games. His 2pt fg percentage was almost 46 compared to boums 44. Im not sure what this guy was looking at. I guess some advanced efficiency numbers

[xavierj]

Thought most of that analysis was terrible and not accurate unless someone wants to prove otherwise. He said McKnight shot more than boum to score the same amount of points… not remotely true nor was he a worse shooter from all over the court. Yes he’s not a three point shooter but his 2 pt fg pct was higher than boum last season.

In reality he shot over a hundred less 3s and less than 20 more 2s. He scored about 60 less points but had 4 less games. His 2pt fg percentage was almost 46 compared to boums 44. Im not sure what this guy was looking at. I guess some advanced efficiency numbers

Agree. While he is not a great three point shooter I think he can be better in Sean’s offense shooting threes with better looks. He will definitely be an upgrade on defense.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Thought most of that analysis was terrible and not accurate unless someone wants to prove otherwise. He said McKnight shot more than boum to score the same amount of points… not remotely true nor was he a worse shooter from all over the court. Yes he’s not a three point shooter but his 2 pt fg pct was higher than boum last season.

In reality he shot over a hundred less 3s and less than 20 more 2s. He scored about 60 less points but had 4 less games. His 2pt fg percentage was almost 46 compared to boums 44. Im not sure what this guy was looking at. I guess some advanced efficiency numbers

I don't follow banners closely but they seemed to lose a lot of credibility with their (not sure how many people it is) opinion on the Steele situation last year.

[Masterofreality]

Quincy Olivari from Rice is set for a visit to campus this weekend. This is on top of the in-home Xavier staff had with him last week.
It seems that Auburn has cooled on him.
Me likey!!

[Masterofreality]

I don't follow banners closely but they seemed to lose a lot of credibility with their (not sure how many people it is) opinion on the Steele situation last year.

And now they’re advocating that DePaul be kicked out of the Big East.
Pudds. They’re off my reading list.

[XU 87]

Thought most of that analysis was terrible and not accurate unless someone wants to prove otherwise. He said McKnight shot more than boum to score the same amount of points… not remotely true nor was he a worse shooter from all over the court. Yes he’s not a three point shooter but his 2 pt fg pct was higher than boum last season.

In reality he shot over a hundred less 3s and less than 20 more 2s. He scored about 60 less points but had 4 less games. His 2pt fg percentage was almost 46 compared to boums 44. Im not sure what this guy was looking at. I guess some advanced efficiency numbers

His Kenpom offensive rating was about 100 last year, which is a little below average. I think Boum was 109 his last year at UTEP and around 118 last year. As noted above, McNight is much more of a scorer than a shooter. I'm hoping that he'll really thrive in Miller's system. We'll see.

[XU 87]

I don't follow banners closely but they seemed to lose a lot of credibility with their (not sure how many people it is) opinion on the Steele situation last year.

What was their opinion? I seem to recall that they got very critical of him towards the end (just like everyone else).

[Masterofreality]

What was their opinion? I seem to recall that they got very critical of him towards the end (just like everyone else).

They actually carried water for Steele right to the end. They quoted an alleged “bball program insider” as saying “If Steele was fired there would be 3 years of Nuclear Winter for Xavier Basketball”.
Talk about stuff that didn’t age well??

[Masterofreality]

And Jack Nunge has said adios.
Good luck Jack!!

[MHettel]

Olivari would be a nice pickup. takes half his shots from 3, which we need. excellent roubounder from the guard position. Gets to the FT line.

I think Olivari and McKnight could possibly be a slight upgrade over Boum and Kunkel. If Olivari plays any defense at all, then I'd probably lean that way...

I dont think McKnight or Olivari had really good assist numbers, but I think Millers system played a large part of the eye-popping team stats we had last year in that department.

Olivari would be huge. If Nunge, Free and Hunter return, we would be in good shape

[D-West & PO-Z]

What was their opinion? I seem to recall that they got very critical of him towards the end (just like everyone else).

They seemed to be much more on the be careful what you wish for train. Like It's not great with Steele but it's not as bad as it could be. I got the strong sense that if the decision was solely theirs, Steele would have been back.

[GoMuskies]

They quoted an alleged “bball program insider” as saying “If Steele was fired there would be 3 years of Nuclear Winter for Xavier Basketball”.

Man, nuclear winter is awesome!

[XU 87]

They seemed to be much more on the be careful what you wish for train. Like It's not great with Steele but it's not as bad as it could be. I got the strong sense that if the decision was solely theirs, Steele would have been back.

Well, they certainly got that one wrong. Honestly, at the end of last year, and after another late season flame out, I don't know how they could say, "Let's give him one more year." Steele had proven otherwise. And his first year at Miami has done nothing to say otherwise.

[94GRAD]

I trust miller but imo that’s a terrible pickup.


Well, they certainly got that one wrong. Honestly, at the end of last year, and after another late season flame out, I don't know how they could say, "Let's give him one more year." Steele had proven otherwise. And his first year at Miami has done nothing to say otherwise.

His team was picked to finish 11st in the MAC, they finished 8th and made the MAC tournament. That is definitely progress during year one.

[GoMuskies]

His team was picked to finish 11st in the MAC, they finished 8th and made the MAC tournament. That is definitely progress during year one.

You keep saying that. It doesn't make it true. The worst teams in the MAC just happened to be a bit worse than was expected. Miami was not better than expected.

Miami's KenPom was #268. Huzzah for Steele!!!!!

[noteggs]

UC’s Davenport commits to Arkansas. Is he going to be a preferred walk on? What the heck did the hogs see that I didn’t?

[XU 87]

You keep saying that. It doesn't make it true. The worst teams in the MAC just happened to be a bit worse than was expected. Miami was not better than expected.

Miami's KenPom was #268. Huzzah for Steele!!!!!

And they went 12-20, with three wins being over D3 schools. Embarrassing non-conference schedule when you're scheduling Goshen (the college not the high school) and St. Mary of the Woods.

[94GRAD]

You keep saying that. It doesn't make it true. The worst teams in the MAC just happened to be a bit worse than was expected. Miami was not better than expected.

Miami's KenPom was #268. Huzzah for Steele!!!!!

They were +300 at one point in the season, so I'd say that's progress.

[X-band '01]

And they went 12-20, with three wins being over D3 schools. Embarrassing non-conference schedule when you're scheduling Goshen (the college not the high school) and St. Mary of the Woods.

St. Mary of the Woods - was that the college from Caddyshack?

[drudy23]

What was their opinion? I seem to recall that they got very critical of him towards the end (just like everyone else).

If they sided with Steele, well, that says a lot.

Steele is exactly who we thought he was about 18 months in.

[Xavier]

Olivari would be a nice pickup. takes half his shots from 3, which we need. excellent roubounder from the guard position. Gets to the FT line.

I think Olivari and McKnight could possibly be a slight upgrade over Boum and Kunkel. If Olivari plays any defense at all, then I'd probably lean that way...

I dont think McKnight or Olivari had really good assist numbers, but I think Millers system played a large part of the eye-popping team stats we had last year in that department.

Olivari would be huge. If Nunge, Free and Hunter return, we would be in good shape

Hunter and free appear to be coming back. Obviously nunge is gone. But agree with your sentiment- adding Olivari could make the back court better than it was last year. Dream scenario: add the SF from USC and Ike or the Virginia kid. (Ike is no longer visiting Providence, I saw)

Likely: just adding Olivari and a big we don’t know about yet.

[xukeith]

And they went 12-20, with three wins being over D3 schools. Embarrassing non-conference schedule when you're scheduling Goshen (the college not the high school) and St. Mary of the Woods.

Rock bottom can be brutal but 12 wins is a good start.

[Xville]

Steele blows


Saw that Ingram is coming in for a visit. 6’7 230… love the beef. Seems that miller sees what everyone else does, x needs guys who have seen the inside of a weight room for conference and ncaa play.

[muskiefan82]

Saw that Ingram is coming in for a visit. 6’7 230… love the beef. Seems that miller sees what everyone else does, x needs guys who have seen the inside of a weight room for conference and ncaa play.

That is a Big East size frame. He would be a huge get for X. Get back to some of that old Power Forward U.

[Masterofreality]

JEROME IS BACK!!
Go Rome!!

[drudy23]

If Free returns, it would still be nice to pick up two legit post guys. Free needs these guys to operate. I feel good with one of them, would be great to get 2.

What sucks is with an incoming class of 4, 2 of them are probably not going to play much. That's fine if they're here for the long haul (not many are these day).

[muskiefan82]

Breakout time for Mr. Hunter. Let's go!!! Less than 7 months!

[D-West & PO-Z]

We can't really start both Freemantle and Hunter can we?

[muskiefan82]

we can't really start both freemantle and hunter can we?

lol

[MHettel]

We can't really start both Freemantle and Hunter can we?

interesting question. I was wondering about that myself previously. If Nunge had returned, then I could see Jerome at the 3. But without Nunge, you are losing alot of deep shooting. If we dont find a center that can shoot, then I dont think we have nearly enough shooting with Jerome and Free out there together.

Claude seems fine, and Craft is reputed to be a shooter. McKnight seems to be a reluctant shooter.

Still need a BIIIIG and a shooter. A big that can shoot and a volume shooter would be ideal....

[XU 87]

We can't really start both Freemantle and Hunter can we?

Unless Free (or Hunter) improves his three point shooting, that lineup doesn't give you much spacing on the court.

[XUGRAD80]

Without a true center I think that X will suffer defensively against a lot of the BE teams. But I trust Miller will find that player.

[Xville]

interesting question. I was wondering about that myself previously. If Nunge had returned, then I could see Jerome at the 3. But without Nunge, you are losing alot of deep shooting. If we dont find a center that can shoot, then I dont think we have nearly enough shooting with Jerome and Free out there together.

Claude seems fine, and Craft is reputed to be a shooter. McKnight seems to be a reluctant shooter.

Still need a BIIIIG and a shooter. A big that can shoot and a volume shooter would be ideal....

Hopefully craft makes that big freshman/sophomore jump and/or we get a shooter like olivari. Get that, and a big and x should be good to for next year (if free returns, otherwise I think we need two bigs)

[Final4]

Unless Free (or Hunter) improves his three point shooting, that lineup doesn't give you much spacing on the court.

Free shot over 60% from three last year. Not a huge sample size but from what I remember last year 3-pt accuracy was not an issue.

[IM4X]

We can't really start both Freemantle and Hunter can we?

I don’t see why not. I would be so happy to have them both in the court together agian.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I don’t see why not. I would be so happy to have them both in the court together agian.

Well neither of them can play center. Or it wouldn't be ideal. And while Hunter can defend the 3 spot, his is awfully limited offensively to play the 3. Ideally we have someone at the 3 who is pretty skilled offensively and can shoot.

[D-West & PO-Z]

We won’t hear anything about Zach or Jerome unless they are leaving. We will hear if Jack decides to return or not since he went through the senior day. I am sure the coaches have a pretty good idea and are recruiting the portal accordingly.

Well, we heard on Jerome.......

I am sure we will hear something on Zach one way or the other whatever he decides.

[xavierj]

Well, we heard on Jerome.......

I am sure we will hear something on Zach one way or the other whatever he decides.

Yeah that was more Rothstein bugging the crap out of Jerome after seeing Jerome in the workout picture yesterday. Xavier did not announce that. Rothstein asked and Jerome obliged. Freemantle probably has Rothstein blocked lol. I think it’s 99% certain Zach is back and unless he answers someone’s question on it, you won’t see him announce it.

[XUBison]

We can't really start both Freemantle and Hunter can we?

At the four and five? Sure, if we are playing the Smurfs.

[xavierj]

At the four and five? Sure, if we are playing the Smurfs.

Jerome will play the three mostly and some 4 if we land a center in the portal. If Craft progresses he will play the three off the bench I would imagine and provide shooting off the bench. Hopefully Claude becomes a reliable three point shooter and then another shooter is added in the portal to replace Kunkel. Green and Reid if ready will also provide three point threats off the bench. I also don’t think Xavier will change and turn into launching a ton of threes regardless.

[MHettel]

Free shot over 60% from three last year. Not a huge sample size but from what I remember last year 3-pt accuracy was not an issue.

Free had a slighly longer leash than Hunter. It was pretty obvious that Hunter was told that his role on this team did not include taking 3's. I think Free was told that he should do it sparingly and only in certain situations.

I think there was one game where he just went off and was feeling it. Like 4 or 5 3s in that one. In most games, however, Free did not attempt 3's

[Final4]

Free had a slighly longer leash than Hunter. It was pretty obvious that Hunter was told that his role on this team did not include taking 3's. I think Free was told that he should do it sparingly and only in certain situations.

I think there was one game where he just went off and was feeling it. Like 4 or 5 3s in that one. In most games, however, Free did not attempt 3's

Again I'll preface this by saying the sample size is rather small but you're incorrect with your last statement. In most games Free DID attempt at least one three.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Yeah that was more Rothstein bugging the crap out of Jerome after seeing Jerome in the workout picture yesterday. Xavier did not announce that. Rothstein asked and Jerome obliged. Freemantle probably has Rothstein blocked lol. I think it’s 99% certain Zach is back and unless he answers someone’s question on it, you won’t see him announce it.

Yeah I never thought that those players would announce it. But reporters are going to do what they do, which I figured.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Jerome will play the three mostly and some 4 if we land a center in the portal. If Craft progresses he will play the three off the bench I would imagine and provide shooting off the bench. Hopefully Claude becomes a reliable three point shooter and then another shooter is added in the portal to replace Kunkel. Green and Reid if ready will also provide three point threats off the bench. I also don’t think Xavier will change and turn into launching a ton of threes regardless.

I hope Hunter makes a massive jump in terms of offensive ability if he is going to play significant mins at the 3 spot. Not going to be great for spacing unless the Center we land is a shooter. Teams did not even bother guarding Hunter when he was beyond the 3 point line. Not ideal for your SF.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Again I'll preface this by saying the sample size is rather small but you're incorrect with your last statement. In most games Free DID attempt at least one three.

Yeah, Freemantle attempted at least 1 three in 64% of the games he played.

He did not attempt one in 3 of his first 4 games but after that he attempted at least one 3 in 72% of his games.

Miller did a good job of reigning him in from the previous year though. He attempted 2 or more only 27% of his games. He never attempted more than 3 in a game.

He was 5 for 7 from 3 in the last three games he played before injury.

[drudy23]

I don't think it's a surprise that the 3 teams in the BE that advanced the furthest had a legit center. Not so much that the center was dominant, but it just opens things up so much for everyone else when that big guy is a legit threat. It's just icing on the cake if the big guy rebounds and blocks shots and can make some decent post moves too, with all 3 could do.

Nunge will be very hard to replace.

[xavierj]

I hope Hunter makes a massive jump in terms of offensive ability if he is going to play significant mins at the 3 spot. Not going to be great for spacing unless the Center we land is a shooter. Teams did not even bother guarding Hunter when he was beyond the 3 point line. Not ideal for your SF.

I agree. One thing that caught my attention was Sean saying they continue to work on his three point shooting. He was 34% as a sophomore at Indiana on about 3 attempts per game , which isn’t horrible. One thing I know is that Sean Miller will have a plan and they will perform at a high level.

[xu9697]

I don't think it's a surprise that the 3 teams in the BE that advanced the furthest had a legit center. Not so much that the center was dominant, but it just opens things up so much for everyone else when that big guy is a legit threat. It's just icing on the cake if the big guy rebounds and blocks shots and can make some decent post moves too, with all 3 could do.

Nunge will be very hard to replace.

Would love to land the UVA center, but seeming like Duke is the likely choice.

https://www.si.com/college/duke/basketball/duke-basketball-transfer-target-alters-plans-4-23

[xuphan]

Would love to land the UVA center, but seeming like Duke is the likely choice.

https://www.si.com/college/duke/basketball/duke-basketball-transfer-target-alters-plans-4-23

You can cross this one off the list.

[MHettel]

Yeah, Freemantle attempted at least 1 three in 64% of the games he played.

He did not attempt one in 3 of his first 4 games but after that he attempted at least one 3 in 72% of his games.

Miller did a good job of reigning him in from the previous year though. He attempted 2 or more only 27% of his games. He never attempted more than 3 in a game.

He was 5 for 7 from 3 in the last three games he played before injury.

Further, he was 1-3 from 3 in the first 9 games. Which means he went 13-19 in his final 13 games. So maybe……he might dial it up next year. I wouldn’t expect 60%, but I’d be fine with 38!

[IM4X]

Unless Free (or Hunter) improves his three point shooting, that lineup doesn't give you much spacing on the court.


Free is very capable of shooting and hitting more 3s. In fact I suspect that’s exactly what we will see Sean have him do should he return. I could see him being very close to Nunge’s average from 3. Much of it has to do with being in a system that has great ball movement and allows for better shot selection for each capable shooter.


Hunter will surely be working on his 3s too but does not have to shoot many if Free and a few others can hit from deep. We know Green is excellent. Craft is wet food too and may very well be ready for more time next year. Ducharme is know as a good shooter but may take time to get acclimated to the next level. McKnight is a respectable shorter from behind the and and should get even better in Sean’s system (much like just about every other X players ended up doing). We also still have a good shot at landing Olivari and/or Taran (both good shooters). I suspect we will see Claude shooting better, as well.

[Masterofreality]

X still in the running for Graham Ike.
Stay tuned. #East vs West

[D-West & PO-Z]

Free is very capable of shooting well from 3 more frequently. Under Sean I see him looking a bit more like Nunge -taking and hitting more. Hunter will surely be working on his 3s too but does not have to shoot many of Free and two or three others can hit from deep.

I am not worried about Freemantle at all offensively, my concern is, that he cannot defend the 5. Why that matters, I think, is because then needs to shift to the 3 if they both start. Opposite concern for Hunter, he can defend 3 positions, but offensively Hunter at the 3 would be a nightmare unless his shot comes back in the offseason.

Ideal sceanrio in my mind, we get Ike (or another capable starting BE 5) and one of Hunter or Free starts at the 5 and the other comes off the bench. I don't think Freemantle buys into that role, and I wouldn't want him to anyway if we have a capable 5 defending. Ike doesn't block many shots but hopefully he is sturdy defender due to the beef.

So that leaves Hunter coming off the bench imo. Not to say he's never out there at the 3 but that would just be my thoughts for starting lineups. I could be way off base, and I trust Miller to do what will work, obviously.

If we have a transfer 5 starting tho, with Free and Hunter, we have no back up bigs either unless the IU kid pans out.

[xukeith]

Between three and five three-point attempts a game by Freemantle sound ideal.

[XUGRAD80]

Between three and five three-point attempts a game by Freemantle sound ideal.

Unless he really improves his 3-pt shot a lot, and he is playing with a space eater down low all the time, 2-3 at the most would be my preference. When it’s Hunter and him on the floor as the bigs, he needs to be down low rebounding or X will get beat badly on the glass. He needs to concentrate on his mid-range offensive game and on positioning for rebounding misses by others. He’s too slow to beat anyone for long rebounds, and can’t put jump people either. It has to be all about positioning and anticipation for him. If he can shoot 60% from inside the arc and collect 7-9 rebounds a game, he will be just fine. Let others be the 3-pt threats.

[XUGRAD80]

If we have a transfer 5 starting tho, with Free and Hunter, we have no back up bigs either unless the IU kid pans out.

Don’t forget the freshman Nzeh. I do think that he will be a contributor this year. Unlike the last couple of bigs that Steele recruited, he looks to be physically ready and not a physical project like the others. 6’9” and 235. Hopefully he is a pleasant surprise after the last few busts. I also saw that X is visiting with a 6’10” center from North Texas on Sunday and may have him in for an on-campus visit on Monday.

[Xavier]

X still in the running for Graham Ike.
Stay tuned. #East vs West

Sounds like it’s between Gonzaga and X now. Gonzaga has the momentum with Ike visiting there after canceling the Providence visit. Still, X has a solid shot at him. Also saw Duke was the favorite for the center from Virginia and that now doesn’t appear to be the case- and X is still very much in the mix for him. Somewhat Promising. A long way to go though.

[sirthought]

Can we keep this to transfer portal talk?

[MHettel]

Can we keep this to transfer portal talk?

Is there a specific angle that this thread that is not related to the portal?

[IM4X]

Don’t forget the freshman Nzeh. I do think that he will be a contributor this year. Unlike the last couple of bigs that Steele recruited, he looks to be physically ready and not a physical project like the others. 6’9” and 235. Hopefully he is a pleasant surprise after the last few busts. I also saw that X is visiting with a 6’10” center from North Texas on Sunday and may have him in for an on-campus visit on Monday.

Yes. That is what I was going to mention in my reply to D West. I agree - he looks physically tough enough to play right away. I love that also did track before focusing on basketball. Sean wants players that are athletic and can get up and down the floor quickly. I would not be surprised if he gets at least as much playing time this coming season as Edwards did this past season.

I do not know enough about the North Texas Center, but I like seeing us go after transfers who have had significant minutes along with impressive stats.

[IM4X]

I am not worried about Freemantle at all offensively, my concern is, that he cannot defend the 5. Why that matters, I think, is because then needs to shift to the 3 if they both start. Opposite concern for Hunter, he can defend 3 positions, but offensively Hunter at the 3 would be a nightmare unless his shot comes back in the offseason.

Ideal sceanrio in my mind, we get Ike (or another capable starting BE 5) and one of Hunter or Free starts at the 5 and the other comes off the bench. I don't think Freemantle buys into that role, and I wouldn't want him to anyway if we have a capable 5 defending. Ike doesn't block many shots but hopefully he is sturdy defender due to the beef.

So that leaves Hunter coming off the bench imo. Not to say he's never out there at the 3 but that would just be my thoughts for starting lineups. I could be way off base, and I trust Miller to do what will work, obviously.

If we have a transfer 5 starting tho, with Free and Hunter, we have no back up bigs either unless the IU kid pans out.


XUGrad80 brought up Nzeh. I agree with him that he could be an impact player his first year. I know he was only listed as a 3 star prospect, but I’m pretty sure that’s because he is a late bloomer who fell a bit under the radar because he was a track guy before he decided to focus entirely on basketball. What footage I do see of him looks more impressive than any footage I saw of the recently departed off-the bench bigs

I agree we need to make sure we are strong inside on both offense and defense. I do think Hunter is slowly adding more range to his game without allowing it to become a liability to the team. He is looking good from midrange now and I supposed he will keep working on stretching the range some more where he can eventually be a very capable 3 point shooter. I do love him staying inside mostly though.

I’m confident Freemantle realizes his biggest weakness is his defense. I think he got a little better this year, but I got to believe he is going to work on it and be better next year. I have to believe part of the problem is that we haven’t really had the depth at the 4 and 5 recently to be able to challenge the starting bigs in practice. It would be great to see him be a bit more of a shot booked too. Regardless, we definitely need another rim protector who can block shots and be good enough offensively to score at least a few buckets a game

Not trying to be picky when it comes to Ike (he looks very solid), but is he really what we need? I’ve gotta believe a taller big who is good at both scoring and blocking shots (like Hankins or Nunge) would be a better fit for our team’s need than a prolific low post scorer who isn’t really know for being a rim protector.

[XUBison]

Don’t forget the freshman Nzeh. I do think that he will be a contributor this year. Unlike the last couple of bigs that Steele recruited, he looks to be physically ready and not a physical project like the others. 6’9” and 235. Hopefully he is a pleasant surprise after the last few busts…

I thought Nzeh is thought to be more of a project, at least from a skill standpoint? Big men often take longer to round into form anyway, but I hope you’re right.

[XUBison]

XUGrad80 brought up Nzeh. I agree with him that he could be an impact player his first year. I know he was only listed as a 3 star prospect, but I’m pretty sure that’s because he is a late bloomer who fell a bit under the radar because he was a track guy before he decided to focus entirely on basketball. What footage I do see of him looks more impressive than any footage I saw of the recently departed off-the bench bigs…

…Not trying to be picky when it comes to Ike (he looks very solid), but is he really what we need? I’ve gotta believe a taller big who is good at both scoring and blocking shots (like Hankins or Nunge) would be a better fit for our team’s need than a prolific low post scorer who isn’t really know for being a rim protector.

I didn’t see your post before I posted about Nzeh— thanks for the context. As for Ike, I sort of agree, but the coaches are going to take the best players available to them, and he’s a good one.

[MHettel]

XUGrad80 brought up Nzeh. I agree with him that he could be an impact player his first year. I know he was only listed as a 3 star prospect, but I’m pretty sure that’s because he is a late bloomer who fell a bit under the radar because he was a track guy before he decided to focus entirely on basketball. What footage I do see of him looks more impressive than any footage I saw of the recently departed off-the bench bigs

I agree we need to make sure we are strong inside on both offense and defense. I do think Hunter is slowly adding more range to his game without allowing it to become a liability to the team. He is looking good from midrange now and I supposed he will keep working on stretching the range some more where he can eventually be a very capable 3 point shooter. I do love him staying inside mostly though.

I’m confident Freemantle realizes his biggest weakness is his defense. I think he got a little better this year, but I got to believe he is going to work on it and be better next year. I have to believe part of the problem is that we haven’t really had the depth at the 4 and 5 recently to be able to challenge the starting bigs in practice. It would be great to see him be a bit more of a shot booked too. Regardless, we definitely need another rim protector who can block shots and be good enough offensively to score at least a few buckets a game

Not trying to be picky when it comes to Ike (he looks very solid), but is he really what we need? I’ve gotta believe a taller big who is good at both scoring and blocking shots (like Hankins or Nunge) would be a better fit for our team’s need than a prolific low post scorer who isn’t really know for being a rim protector.

I for sure would like a Rim protector if we can get one. The UVA kid would likely be the best rim protector we've ever had. Thats never been a huge strength out ours. Aaron Williams was good, and DWest was very good. Hankins was good, but he was often left WAAAY out of rebounding position by trying to block shots from guys he wasnt guarding. Tyrique was decent.

That said, you can be an effective post defender without blocking shots as long as you are playing enough defense to force DIFFICULT shots and dont require help.

I really do think with Freemantles defense (assuming he's back), that we actually really do need a rim protecting guy that can help. If Free gets beat, we might have a guy that help at the rim. I'd take the UVA kid and Olivari to round out the class if we could. Ike and Olivari is also a VERY good outcome if we land there, although it could expose Free.

[IM4X]

I didn’t see your post before I posted about Nzeh— thanks for the context. As for Ike, I sort of agree, but the coaches are going to take the best players available to them, and he’s a good one.

Yeah. It’s not that I’m not interested in Ike, I just want to make sure we are getting the kind of player we’re missing. I don’t really know how good of a defender he is. I know he is a good scorer- and we can always use another bucket filler. We also know that Zack can fill it up as well. He was scoring 28 and 30 points in games just before he got hurt.

My point (which you seem to agree) is that we need another big who can defend like Hunter (probably our best defender returning). He’s also a pretty good shot blocker for his size. Imagine if we landed a Hunter 2.0 type player: all of athleticism and defensive skills (including shot blocking) and offensive shot making ability from midrange in that Hunter has- just with 3 to 4 more inches of height.

[IM4X]

I for sure would like a Rim protector if we can get one. The UVA kid would likely be the best rim protector we've ever had. Thats never been a huge strength out ours. Aaron Williams was good, and DWest was very good. Hankins was good, but he was often left WAAAY out of rebounding position by trying to block shots from guys he wasnt guarding. Tyrique was decent.

That said, you can be an effective post defender without blocking shots as long as you are playing enough defense to force DIFFICULT shots and dont require help.

I really do think with Freemantles defense (assuming he's back), that we actually really do need a rim protecting guy that can help. If Free gets beat, we might have a guy that help at the rim. I'd take the UVA kid and Olivari to round out the class if we could. Ike and Olivari is also a VERY good outcome if we land there, although it could expose Free.

I am going to try to find a video of Ike playing more defense. That is so key to what we need out of an additional big. The Virginia center might be a great pick up, but I have not watched enough of him either to see if he is a legit 20+ minute option for us or not. I want to know how many minutes he played for last season.

I’m also wondering what the real story is with the local kid we picked up from IU. Is he going to be someone who can be developed to the level of being a starter one day or is he an Edwards type of player who is there to give starters a breather. I would imagine Sean spoke with Archie before taking him. Maybe Archie told him he has a big upside but just was not able to play with his lnasal issues. Maybe he ends up becoming a bit like an O’Mara type of player for us- not tremendously fast but someone who has really good footwork and is very capable of scoring and defending in the paint. I would be very please with that kind of situation.

[bleedXblue]

I am going to try to find a video of Ike playing more defense. That is so key to what we need out of an additional big. The Virginia center might be a great pick up, but I have not watched enough of him either to see if he is a legit 20+ minute option for us or not. I want to know how many minutes he played for last season.

I’m also wondering what the real story is with the local kid we picked up from IU. Is he going to be someone who can be developed to the level of being a starter one day or is he an Edwards type of player who is there to give starters a breather. I would imagine Sean spoke with Archie before taking him. Maybe Archie told him he has a big upside but just was not able to play with his lnasal issues. Maybe he ends up becoming a bit like an O’Mara type of player for us- not tremendously fast but someone who has really good footwork and is very capable of scoring and defending in the paint. I would be very please with that kind of situation.

I would like to think that we are WAY beyond taking guys on that are projects.

[MHettel]

I am going to try to find a video of Ike playing more defense. That is so key to what we need out of an additional big. The Virginia center might be a great pick up, but I have not watched enough of him either to see if he is a legit 20+ minute option for us or not. I want to know how many minutes he played for last season.

I’m also wondering what the real story is with the local kid we picked up from IU. Is he going to be someone who can be developed to the level of being a starter one day or is he an Edwards type of player who is there to give starters a breather. I would imagine Sean spoke with Archie before taking him. Maybe Archie told him he has a big upside but just was not able to play with his lnasal issues. Maybe he ends up becoming a bit like an O’Mara type of player for us- not tremendously fast but someone who has really good footwork and is very capable of scoring and defending in the paint. I would be very please with that kind of situation.

I assume the IU kid is a rotation player. Not sure why your u would bring in ANY transfer without having an idea of the role they will play. With freshmen, there is a level of uncertainty. They are still growing (or not) when you sign them, and they probably will fill out (or won’t) as an underclassman. Then the level of competition is always a wild card. So I understand some misses. But not transfers.

Obviously, the Free injury hurt us last year, but really had he not gone down and we had just one capable and reliable backup big for Jack we were legit Final 4 contenders. Jack had many great moments and several great games. But he also had some real clunkers. On days where he just didn’t have it, we still had to stick with him

I think the hope is the IU kid will be a backup 5, playing maybe 12-15 minutes a night. Worst case is we don’t find another big and he plays a much bigger role. Would love to be surprised with him. Former top 50 recruit, right?

[IM4X]

I would like to think that we are WAY beyond taking guys on that are projects.

I would too. The IU kid might turn out to be a great pickup. He just hasn’t exactly proven himself at the college level yet.

[IM4X]

I assume the IU kid is a rotation player. Not sure why your u would bring in ANY transfer without having an idea of the role they will play. With freshmen, there is a level of uncertainty. They are still growing (or not) when you sign them, and they probably will fill out (or won’t) as an underclassman. Then the level of competition is always a wild card. So I understand some misses. But not transfers.

Obviously, the Free injury hurt us last year, but really had he not gone down and we had just one capable and reliable backup big for Jack we were legit Final 4 contenders. Jack had many great moments and several great games. But he also had some real clunkers. On days where he just didn’t have it, we still had to stick with him

I think the hope is the IU kid will be a backup 5, playing maybe 12-15 minutes a night. Worst case is we don’t find another big and he plays a much bigger role. Would love to be surprised with him. Former top 50 recruit, right?

Jack wasn’t exactly the only one to have a clunker game. Every X player had a few clunkers. Souley and Colby struggled at times in NCAA Tournament games way more than anyone ever would have expected.

It’s very reasonable to believe Zach’s injury hurt our chance of going further in the tournament. With such a short bench, we ended up with tired players and with at least one too many of them having an off game. Look at UCONN. We beat them twice and I believe both times was with Zach and a slightly deeper bench.

I wouldn’t go so far as to say no transfer will be a miss. There are plenty of transfers who have been misses. Just look at some of the kids who left X and never panned out at the next school. To your point, though, you would think Sean has a plan for those who are coming in but are not exactly proven commodities.

[xukeith]

Does anybody have some sound, reasonable fix for this transfer portal issue? Is it possible to decrease the free market?

[XUGRAD80]

Does anybody have some sound, reasonable fix for this transfer portal issue? Is it possible to decrease the free market?

Well first off, it shouldn’t open until AFTER the NCAA championship game is over. Secondly, it should only be open for a month.

But I also feel that it will simmer down a bit after the extra Covid year has worked through the cycle and when/if the NCAA actually enforces the one-time only free transfer as an undergrad. Waivers should be extremely rare or the rule loses its impact.

The biggest problem I’m reading that coaches are complaining about is tampering. Coaches are complaining that “agents” are shopping mid-major stars to major universities even BEFORE they enter the portal. We’ve no reason to believe that isn’t true, and every reason to believe that it’s happening often. Just saw this morning that a kid jumped from SDSU to Cal within HOURS of entering the portal. C’mon man. At the same time, upwards of 600 kids or more are likely to be left without a seat after the music stops. They have to find a way to get the agents out of the system, but I’m not sure how you do that. The NCAA has shown themselves to be unable to police a high school dance, let alone something as widespread as agents and boosters.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Well first off, it shouldn’t open until AFTER the NCAA championship game is over. Secondly, it should only be open for a month.

But I also feel that it will simmer down a bit after the extra Covid year has worked through the cycle and when/if the NCAA actually enforces the one-time only free transfer as an undergrad. Waivers should be extremely rare or the rule loses its impact.

The biggest problem I’m reading that coaches are complaining about is tampering. Coaches are complaining that “agents” are shopping mid-major stars to major universities even BEFORE they enter the portal. We’ve no reason to believe that isn’t true, and every reason to believe that it’s happening often. Just saw this morning that a kid jumped from SDSU to Cal within HOURS of entering the portal. C’mon man. At the same time, upwards of 600 kids or more are likely to be left without a seat after the music stops. They have to find a way to get the agents out of the system, but I’m not sure how you do that. The NCAA has shown themselves to be unable to police a high school dance, let alone something as widespread as agents and boosters.

Coaches could fix the tampering issue themselves by deciding that they not anyone in their program/school will speak with anyone regarding any player who isn’t already in the portal. Seems kind of ridiculous for coaches to complain about something they could control as a group entirely.

[Xavier]

I agree it would be nice to wait till after the tournament. But that isn’t stopping the process. I just don’t like the announcements happening during the tournament and taking (albeit little) some of the spotlight away. But never going to stop the recruitment and the agents etc. It’s the same in NBA/NFL when deals are done the minute free agency opens.

It will fix itself otherwise. Especially if the one time transfer rule sticks more. I really don’t think it’s that big of an issue right now anyways. Am I mad that guys who aren’t getting playing time and wont in the future want to leave and go somewhere they might see time? Not at all. It’s even more important the relationship building of the coaching staff and that’s a big advantage for Sean IMO. Players love playing for Miller

[Masterofreality]

C’mon Quincy! ANNOUNCE IT!

[xukeith]

I read Villanova and Duke have a General Manager of Mens and Women's basketball.
I guess it says to the public, "we love basketball!"

[xavierj]

I read Villanova and Duke have a General Manager of Mens and Women's basketball.
I guess it says to the public, "we love basketball!"

Villanova just created that position. Isn’t that basically what Mario is for Xavier but just a different title?

[xukeith]

I have no idea what a GM does.

FYI Quincy Olivari is announcing his school on The Field of 68 live at 7:45pm tonight.

[MHettel]

I read Villanova and Duke have a General Manager of Mens and Women's basketball.
I guess it says to the public, "we love basketball!"

Baker Dunleavy stepped down as HC at Quinnipiac to take that GM job at Nova. What’s that signal?

[Masterofreality]

C’mon Quincy! ANNOUNCE IT!

Announcing tonight at 7:45 on Jeff Goodman’s podcast -“The Field of 68

[Uncle Joe]

Announcing tonight at 7:45 on Jeff Goodman’s podcast -“The Field of 68

Looks like a done deal - he's following several XU Twitter accounts

[xu82]

Looks like a done deal - he's following several XU Twitter accounts

Who are we talking about here?

[JTG]

Baker Dunleavy stepped down as HC at Quinnipiac to take that GM job at Nova. What’s that signal?

$$$$$$$$$$$ or Neptune has a short leash.

[xavierj]

Who are we talking about here?

Quincy Olivari

[noteggs]

Olivari highlights

https://youtu.be/E9LKgAwlY-M

[Xville]

Great news. Mark it down, x’s backcourt will be better next year than this year

[paulxu]

I wonder if bringing in a 5th year guy who is well seasoned and can shoot, causes some incoming freshmen recruits to re-evaluate their decisions.

[xavierj]

Great news. Mark it down, x’s backcourt will be better next year than this year

I think you are right. It will certainly be deeper and better defensively.

[xavierj]

I wonder if bringing in a 5th year guy who is well seasoned and can shoot, causes some incoming freshmen recruits to re-evaluate their decisions.

No.

[xukeith]

Who are we talking about here?

Quincy

[xukeith]

Great news. Mark it down, x’s backcourt will be better next year than this year

Both transfer guards are approx 190 and 200 pounds which is a step up from Boum's 175 pound weight.

[xavbball]

I wonder if bringing in a 5th year guy who is well seasoned and can shoot, causes some incoming freshmen recruits to re-evaluate their decisions.

Maybe. But this is the new reality of college basketball. They can decommit and look elsewhere, but just about every other high-major program is working the portal. It won't surprise me if we start seeing more traditional high-major prospects start their careers in lower conferences like the AAC and A10 simply because it will guarantee playing time and then look for opportunities at a high-major a season or two later.

[xavierj]

Maybe. But this is the new reality of college basketball. They can decommit and look elsewhere, but just about every other high-major program is working the portal. It won't surprise me if we start seeing more traditional high-major prospects start their careers in lower conferences like the AAC and A10 simply because it will guarantee playing time and then look for opportunities at a high-major a season or two later.

It just doesn’t happen that often. First of all they all have signed letters of intent, second they know they need to be developed and they are not really expecting to start and lastly the coaches are letting them know what is going on. They want to be developed. I can see a more veteran player being concerned with transfers but not the freshman unless they were like a one and done type of kid. Also Xavier has had 8 players leave the program so everyone knew they were adding dudes outside of the freshman recruits. You had to be able To field a team.

[Uncle Joe]

So with Quincy Olivari, Dayvion McKnight and Trey Green listed as PGs, and Claude, Craft, Ducharme and Swain listed as SGs, where do you all see these guys playing next year in terms of position(s) and minutes? Is it possible that Ducharme and Swain could see time at SF?

[xavierj]

So with Quincy Olivari, Dayvion McKnight and Trey Green listed as PGs, and Claude, Craft, Ducharme and Swain listed as SGs, where do you all see these guys playing next year in terms of position(s) and minutes? Is it possible that Ducharme and Swain could see time at SF?

I could see Des Claude play the 3. Ducharme will spot the 2. Swain I can see play the 3 or 4 but he is so young so not sure what they will do with him. He is younger than many current juniors in high school. All I know is that Sean Miller knows what he is doing so all will be good.

[D-West & PO-Z]

With this likely news, if we get a beefy transfer 5, I can guarantee free and Hunter aren’t both starting next year. Too much depth at guard to not start 3 guys likely. Plus, I don’t think Hunter can effectively play the 3 anyway.

[Xavier]

Great news. Mark it down, x’s backcourt will be better next year than this year

For sure. Depending on the 5 X gets- they very well could be better next year as a whole. And another expected protected seed. Such a great time to be a Muskie.

[Xville]

It’s now official! Quincy to x! Get an impact forward and this is a more talented roster than last year and call it a day!

[Masterofreality]

Announcing tonight at 7:45 on Jeff Goodman’s podcast -“The Field of 68

WE GOT HIM!! Welcome Q!!!

[xukeith]

So with Quincy Olivari, Dayvion McKnight and Trey Green listed as PGs, and Claude, Craft, Ducharme and Swain listed as SGs, where do you all see these guys playing next year in terms of position(s) and minutes? Is it possible that Ducharme and Swain could see time at SF?

Claude will paly some 2 and 3. Green will likely play 1 or 2. Craft 2 or 3 as he is a solid shooter and rebounder. Swain 3 or 4 but not getting a ton of minutes. Ducharme at the 2/3 spot and not getting a ton of minutes.

[MHettel]

well, backcourt is now set. Just need the battleship.

Dude from UVA would be perfect. I'm really liking the idea of a shot blocker to help Free on D.

[Masterofreality]

well, backcourt is now set. Just need the battleship.

Dude from UVA would be perfect. I'm really liking the idea of a shot blocker to help Free on D.

We have a legit bunch of snipers. Also guys who can get downhill and get to the line.
It was interesting to hear that for 4 years Xavier’s team shot more 3 pointers than foul shots. That was the first period that occurrence had ever happened.
That 4 year streak was broken this past season. We know why and how.
The kids we are getting now fit right in that mode.
LETS GOOOOOOOOO!

[IM4X]

Welcome to the X family Quincy!!!

[xu82]

WELCOME to you, sir!

[IM4X]

Claude will paly some 2 and 3. Green will likely play 1 or 2. Craft 2 or 3 as he is a solid shooter and rebounder. Swain 3 or 4 but not getting a ton of minutes. Ducharme at the 2/3 spot and not getting a ton of minutes.


I would not bet on it. I have a sneaky suspicion he’ll be playing more minutes than most expect. While he could stand to add a little bulk (and he will), he is just so extremely skilled in so many ways and I believe he will be BE ready come the beginning of next season. I do agree we will see him a lot at the 3 and 4.

[Xville]

I would not bet on it. I have a sneaky suspicion he’ll be playing more minutes than most expect. While he could stand to add a little bill (and he will), he is just so extremely skilled in so many ways and I believe he will be BE ready come the beginning of next season.

I agree. Haven’t seen him play live but he looks (and I know it’s a crazy comparison) Derrick brownish to me. I think he’s dripping with a lot of talent and still really young!

[IM4X]

I agree. Haven’t seen him play live but he looks (and I know it’s a crazy comparison) Derrick brownish to me. I think he’s dripping with a lot of talent and still really young!

That’s funny you mentioned Brown. I mentioned in a previous post that Swain reminds me of a cross between D Brown and Dez Wells. It does seem crazy, but I do not think it is a good comparison (with the incoming freshman version of those two). Swain can do just about everything very well and he does it with such smoothness- more so than just about any incoming X freshman I can remember except maybe those two I’ve mentioned.

[zanesxu]

Quincy dropped 28 with 5 rebs vs. UT taking them to overtime... then 27 and 16 in two games vs. FAU. Let's keep rolling...

[bobbiemcgee]

'lil ole X beats out Miami, Texas and Auburn.

[bobbiemcgee]

For sure. Depending on the 5 X gets- they very well could be better next year as a whole. And another expected protected seed. Such a great time to be a Muskie.

Shedrick visiting 4/23

[xuphan]

Shedrick visiting 4/23

He is a heavy Duke lean

[Masterofreality]

He is a heavy Duke lean

And Duke gets the last visit. Not good.

[Caveat]

https://twitter.com/chancellortv/status/1647751298740105220?s=61&t=ZERPxRltTmeqLPlzYLs4CA

Sean Miller: Closer.

[GoMuskies]

Love to see a guy so happy to be coming to Xavier!

[noteggs]

https://twitter.com/chancellortv/status/1647751298740105220?s=61&t=ZERPxRltTmeqLPlzYLs4CA

Sean Miller: Closer.

Seems like a great young man and love his smile. Just wish someone would tell the interviewer it’s Xavier University and not the other way around.

[xudash]

https://twitter.com/chancellortv/status/1647751298740105220?s=61&t=ZERPxRltTmeqLPlzYLs4CA

Sean Miller: Closer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMZBOSUAn4E

Field of 68 (Jeff Goodman) with Quincy's actual announcement for X. Go to the 15:16 mark.

Enjoy yourself, because I can't imagine you won't after listening to this young man and, in particular, learning his disposition towards NIL and how that factored into his decision. My jaw almost hit the floor when I heard what he shared about what Bruce Pearl mentioned to him. I'll let you enjoy that on your own.

Texas.
Miami.
Auburn.
Xavier.

And Xavier walks out with the recruiting win.

What a great day to be an X fan.

[XUGRAD80]

NC State basketball transfer Jack Clark sets Arkansas, Clemson, Villanova, Xavier decision…….6’8” 200 lbs forward. More of rebounder than a scorer from what the article says. Not a good 3 point shooter but has the body to play the power forward position. Sounds like more of a Hunter type player.

Find out tomorrow.

[Final4]

Quincy shoots a real moon ball

[Masterofreality]

Does Clifton Community College have anybody , ANY BODY at all looking at them in the Portal?
We’ll destroy them by 50 in Cintas next year.

[Masterofreality]

NC State basketball transfer Jack Clark sets Arkansas, Clemson, Villanova, Xavier decision…….6’8” 200 lbs forward. More of rebounder than a scorer from what the article says. Not a good 3 point shooter but has the body to play the power forward position. Sounds like more of a Hunter type player.

Find out tomorrow.

Meh. Only a one year guy. Not gonna beat out Free or Jerome.

[Uncle Joe]

NC State basketball transfer Jack Clark sets Arkansas, Clemson, Villanova, Xavier decision…….6’8” 200 lbs forward. More of rebounder than a scorer from what the article says. Not a good 3 point shooter but has the body to play the power forward position. Sounds like more of a Hunter type player.

Find out tomorrow.


Meh. Only a one year guy. Not gonna beat out Free or Jerome.

Would the fact that they're pursuing this guy suggest Free isn't coming back? If he was going to another school surely he would've entered the portal by now? MOR - you know anything about his status/intentions?

[muskiefan82]

I am thinking it became very clear that X needs depth on the front line to compete in March in to the 3rd weekend.

[XUGRAD80]

I am thinking it became very clear that X needs depth on the front line to compete in March in to the 3rd weekend.

Agree….right Moe there are 11 spots filled, including Free. That leaves 2 open spots. Might as well fill them.

Can’t worry about players leaving if they aren’t getting playing time as even starters are using the transfer portal with regularity. Fill your roster with the best players you can and let the chips fall where they may. If nothing else it might keep him from going to Nova. He spent 3 years with LaSalle and one year with NC State, this is his extra Covid year. Maybe he wants to attend X for the free grad school.

[Masterofreality]

Would the fact that they're pursuing this guy suggest Free isn't coming back? If he was going to another school surely he would've entered the portal by now? MOR - you know anything about his status/intentions?

I mean, all indications are that he’s coming back. His foot issues make him a question mark for other schools rn. There is also another factor that I can’t share.
But it’s Free. So………

[Masterofreality]

Agree….right Moe there are 11 spots filled, including Free. That leaves 2 open spots. Might as well fill them.

Can’t worry about players leaving if they aren’t getting playing time as even starters are using the transfer portal with regularity. Fill your roster with the best players you can and let the chips fall where they may. If nothing else it might keep him from going to Nova. He spent 3 years with LaSalle and one year with NC State, this is his extra Covid year. Maybe he wants to attend X for the free grad school.

This is fair.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

I mean, all indications are that he’s coming back. His foot issues make him a question mark for other schools rn. There is also another factor that I can’t share.
But it’s Free. So………

I have to assume, with Free, that NIL money is a factor. But one thing nobody on this board seems to question, is how healthy is he? We all seem to assume that if he comes back, he's the same Free with no further issues. His surgery at the end of the season was his second on the same foot. And we are all aware of the on-going foot issues that ended the professional careers of Buie and Oden. I don't know if Free's injury is the same type as those individuals, but can we really assume that Free can make it through this season without another problem? I haven't a clue but if I'm Miller, I don't allow another Free injury to derail my objectives for the 23-24 season.

Like most of us on this board, I hope he comes back, has a great season, matures a bit and is successful beyond Xavier. However, as MOR implies, Free is a bit different.

[Xville]

X needs bigs regardless if free comes back or not. Even with free, x has just hunter and Logan who couldn’t get off the bench injuries or not. Doesn’t seem that x is going to get Ike, need a big guy desperately

[xudash]

I have to assume, with Free, that NIL money is a factor. But one thing nobody on this board seems to question, is how healthy is he? We all seem to assume that if he comes back, he's the same Free with no further issues. His surgery at the end of the season was his second on the same foot. And we are all aware of the on-going foot issues that ended the professional careers of Buie and Oden. I don't know if Free's injury is the same type as those individuals, but can we really assume that Free can make it through this season without another problem? I haven't a clue but if I'm Miller, I don't allow another Free injury to derail my objectives for the 23-24 season.

Like most of us on this board, I hope he comes back, has a great season, matures a bit and is successful beyond Xavier. However, as MOR implies, Free is a bit different.

I'll be brutally honest here: this bothers the hell out of me. There seems to be enough smoke around to concern ourselves over there being a fire or having one flare up along the way.

I fully trust Sean Miller to manage every situation, including whatever this "situation" is about, but we don't need any form of negative dynamics working against what otherwise will hopefully be a cohesive team culture.

Since I don't know enough about this and don't want to over-assume anything, I'll stop right here and just hope that he comes back, is fully healthy, doesn't get reinjured, and has a positive year.

[xavierj]

X needs bigs regardless if free comes back or not. Even with free, x has just hunter and Logan who couldn’t get off the bench injuries or not. Doesn’t seem that x is going to get Ike, need a big guy desperately

That’s the plan. With Ike most likely heading to Gonzaga I think it’s down to two guys at the moment from what I saw on Twitter. I think Ousmane from North Texas is visiting maybe tomorrow and I think the staff visited him yesterday. Shedrick is supposed to visit next weekend but if Ousmane commits that won’t happen.

[Masterofreality]

That’s the plan. With Ike most likely heading to Gonzaga I think it’s down to two guys at the moment from what I saw on Twitter. I think Ousmane from North Texas is visiting maybe tomorrow and I think the staff visited him yesterday. Shedrick is supposed to visit next weekend but if Ousmane commits that won’t happen.

I have nothing on this, my speculation only, but I’d put my money on Ousmane being here.

[XUBison]

I have nothing on this, my speculation only, but I’d put my money on Ousmane being here.

What’s the word on Ousmane’s potential role? Last year he averaged 11 pts, 6 boards, and 1.3 blocks per game. He doesn’t shoot from 3 and was only 48.7% from the field. He’s listed on ESPN at 6’10”, 230, so he’s a big boy. That’s all I know, but that doesn’t sound like a Nunge replacement.

[Xavier]

I have nothing on this, my speculation only, but I’d put my money on Ousmane being here.

Me too. I’d rather Shedrick because of his defensive ability. But can’t really be picky here

[D-West & PO-Z]

What’s the word on Ousmane’s potential role? Last year he averaged 11 pts, 6 boards, and 1.3 blocks per game. He doesn’t shoot from 3 and was only 48.7% from the field. He’s listed on ESPN at 6’10”, 230, so he’s a big boy. That’s all I know, but that doesn’t sound like a Nunge replacement.

It doesn't seem to me Miller is targeting a Nunge replacement. He is clearly targeting beefier guys. Smart move for this conference.

[profson]

It doesn't seem to me Miller is targeting a Nunge replacement. He is clearly targeting beefier guys. Smart move for this conference.

You make it seem as if he is making a conscious choice. How many 7 footers with inside and 3 point skills at Nunge’s level are in the portal. If there were a clone he would take Nunge 2 in a heartbeat.

[xukeith]

I see Ousmane listed as 230 and on two other sites at 250 plus.

That is a lot of weight disparity.

[D-West & PO-Z]

You make it seem as if he is making a conscious choice. How many 7 footers with inside and 3 point skills at Nunge’s level are in the portal. If there were a clone he would take Nunge 2 in a heartbeat.

Maybe. And that isn't to disparage Nunge. Obviously he had a unique skill set, and he probably would have been even better than he already was if we could have spelled him with a legit backup at times. However, I am not sure Miller isn't looking forward to hopefully landing a more stout defensively big man. Nunge did have shot blocking abilities but I think you could see him fatigue greatly at times trying to guard a lot of the Centers in the Big East.

There are just a lot of really good tough big guys in the BE. As good as Nunge was all season, I think there is a legit argument to be made he was "only" the 5th best man in the middle in the Big East.

Sanogo
Kalkbrenner
Soriano
Dixon
Nunge

Just a tough group of guys.

[X-band '01]

I don't know if any of you saw North Texas play this year, but they were a really stout defensive team. I hope that's what Ousmane brings to the table if indeed he does commit to the Musketeers.

[XUBison]

It doesn't seem to me Miller is targeting a Nunge replacement. He is clearly targeting beefier guys. Smart move for this conference.

I agree. I was referring more to productivity than style of play. His numbers didn’t stand out against lesser competition, and I hate his FG% for a big man.

[IM4X]

Maybe. And that isn't to disparage Nunge. Obviously he had a unique skill set, and he probably would have been even better than he already was if we could have spelled him with a legit backup at times. However, I am not sure Miller isn't looking forward to hopefully landing a more stout defensively big man. Nunge did have shot blocking abilities but I think you could see him fatigue greatly at times trying to guard a lot of the Centers in the Big East.

There are just a lot of really good tough big guys in the BE. As good as Nunge was all season, I think there is a legit argument to be made he was "only" the 5th best man in the middle in the Big East.

Sanogo
Kalkbrenner
Soriano
Dixon
Nunge

Just a tough group of guys.


Tough guys, but I really like our Jack.

I don’t think I’d put him quite that far down the List.

Plus, If you go back and watch the two UCONN games, I think you’d say Jack actually outplayed Sanoga in those matchups.

[Masterofreality]

Ousmane is IN DA HOUSE!! (Per Stadium )

[Masterofreality]

And per Jeff Goodman:

Xavier has landed North Texas transfer big man Abou Ousmane, he told @stadium.
The 6-10, 230-pound big man averaged 11.1 points and 6 boards per game last season for the Mean Green.
Terrific, physical defender. Anchor of a big-time
UNT defense.

[MHettel]

allright. Nice.

LOVE free agency!

[murray87]

Welcome to Xavier Abou!!

[D-West & PO-Z]

Anchor of a big-time
UNT defense.

This is what I love to see!

[XU-PA]

Wow!!! In just a couple weeks we went from "rebuilding" or "who knows" to "loaded"!!!

[Masterofreality]

allright. Nice.

LOVE free agency!

Sean Miller is better than the New York Yankees!!!

[muskiefan82]

Anyone else X needs from their AAA affiliate CUSA?

[Xville]

Don’t know much about this guy but from what has been said and looking at clips, he looks big, physical and gets his points at the rim. I like it! Love that miller is building out the roster with more physicality and guys who have seen the weight room. Since Steele, I feel that our roster has been finesse guys who didn’t mind getting pushed around and getting bitch slapped, love the change!

[noteggs]

Anyone else X needs from their AAA affiliate CUSA?

At least the last 3 transfers have seen a lot of tape on one another…

[GoMuskies]

OK, who all did we get? The big from UNT, the guards from Rice and WKU. The bench player from IU. Is that the list so far?

[D-West & PO-Z]

OK, who all did we get? The big from UNT, the guards from Rice and WKU. The bench player from IU. Is that the list so far?

Yes, basically all the conference USA and a guy from IU who probably should have been in the Conference USA (I kid....).

Conference USA hs now been renamed to Conference UXA. Miller seems to be crushing it.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I am reading all over twitter what a great interior defender this Ousmane guy is. I freaking love it.