College Basketball Season 23-24

[Xville]

Didn’t see one started for this year so I thought I’d start one.

It’s early, but uk looks as good as those teams when cal first got there. They don’t even have their 7 footers playing yet.

[GoMuskies]

Gonzaga played a team so bad tonight that Mark Few's kid scored three points.

[muskiefan82]

Wow. UK's Reeves made Olivari look like an reserved, situational shooter tonight. He hits just a few of those launches and they win, but instead he shot them out of it.

[GoMuskies]

DJ Wagner's 1 for 12 from the field probably didn't help either.

[Xville]

Who was the genius who scheduled the empire classic in direct competition with nfl Sunday? You got UConn, Indiana, Texas all playing, and schedule it for 1pm on a Sunday. Smart.

College basketball just doesn’t seem to be able to get out of its own way.

[X-band '01]

Maybe they added Louisville just so they could get a discount on renting out the Garden that weekend.

[bigdiggins]

BYU was up on SE Louisiana 30-4 at one point last night. Final was 105-48. This prompted me to confirm that SE Lou is still DI. Turns out they are actually picked to win the Southland Conference. In other words, there is a 110% chance the southland winner will be in a 16 seed playin game this year.

[X-band '01]

More likely than not McNeese will win that league. Too bad Will Wade is in the middle of a strong-ass suspension.

[GoMuskies]

Phil Martelli is Michigan's interim head coach. Realizing that made me look up his coaching record today via Wikipedia just out of curiosity. I'm sure all of us who are old enough remember that remarkable team from 20 years ago that went to the Elite Eight after being throttled by Xavier in the A-10 quarterfinals. Making it to the Elite Eight, St. Joe's obviously played 4 NCAA Tournament games that season. Martelli went on to coach 15 more years on Hawk Hill. In those 15 seasons, St. Joe's played exactly 4 more NCAA Tournament games. They were 1-3 in those four games (should have beaten eventual national champions UConn in the first round in 2014).

[xudash]

Phil Martelli is Michigan's interim head coach. Realizing that made me look up his coaching record today via Wikipedia just out of curiosity. I'm sure all of us who are old enough remember that remarkable team from 20 years ago that went to the Elite Eight after being throttled by Xavier in the A-10 quarterfinals. Making it to the Elite Eight, St. Joe's obviously played 4 NCAA Tournament games that season. Martelli went on to coach 15 more years on Hawk Hill. In those 15 seasons, St. Joe's played exactly 4 more NCAA Tournament games. They were 1-3 in those four games (should have beaten eventual national champions UConn in the first round in 2014).

Was that the same year that we made it to the E8 as well, losing to Duke, thanks to some questionable foul calls against Anthony Miles?

[GoMuskies]

It was indeed the same year.

[Xavgrad08]

It was indeed the same year.

Phil Martelli’s son Phil Martelli Jr. was named the head coach at Bryant this week. I always liked Martelli because he would usually say nice things about X. St. Joe’s has had sone bad teams since Martelli’s departure.

[Xavgrad08]

My previous post duplicated. So I will edit and point out Dayton may have saved their season with a double digit comeback win vs LSU. I don’t think LSU is good, but it gives Dayton an opportunity vs St Johns, and quality third round opponent.

[bjf123]

Phil Martelli’s son Phil Martelli Jr. was named the head coach at Bryant this week. I always liked Martelli because he would usually say nice things about X. St. Joe’s has had sone bad teams since Martelli’s departure.

His best line about X was something along the lines of wanting to come to Senior Day to make sure Stanley Burrell was really leaving.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[X-band '01]

Think he really wanted to come to graduation to make sure "that gd Burrell was leaving"

[KabeX]

Michigan goes down to Long Beach St. Not sure I care all that much but thought I would try to add to this thread.

[KabeX]

Also, Valpo up in Illinois early 2nd half. Only reason I mention this is I just realized that Valpo's mascot is now the "Beacons". Now admittedly, I had to look up what the previous mascot was (Crusaders - and I guess that is on the PC cancel list). They actually have 2 mascots - Beacon and Blaze -both apparently Golden Retrievers. I mean, what the hell is going on here? I'm posting about 2 golden retrievers who have become mascots of a mid major who apparently felt that Crusader was PCI. Oy. What time is X and UW tipping?

[JTG]

Michigan goes down to Long Beach St. Not sure I care all that much but thought I would try to add to this thread.
Good news any time the pompous BIG loses.

[noteggs]

Michigan goes down to Long Beach St. Not sure I care all that much but thought I would try to add to this thread.

Weird because Michigan crushed St John’s a few days ago. Going to be an interesting year of college basketball.

[KabeX]

Weird because Michigan crushed St John’s a few days ago. Going to be an interesting year of college basketball.
It always is (thankfully)

[X-band '01]

Win or lose, can we all agree that Texas may have spent some extra time at Scores?

[Xville]

Win or lose, can we all agree that Texas may have spent some extra time at Scores?

Abmas 100% was point shaving.

Kidding but I’m putting a buttload on uconn tomorrow. Something is fishy.

[Xville]

Houston ‘s d is elite. Their o is meh.

If x brings the intensity and the Cintas is rocking, x can pull off the upset

[noteggs]

True. But they are a good offensive rebounding team, which concerns me after tonight.

[Xville]

I think Washington could be better than a lot of us are giving them credit for.

[X-band '01]

I know it was an overtime game, but they nearly did the unthinkable by nearly dropping 100 against San Diego State.

[GoMuskies]

Purdue/Gonzaga this afternoon in the Maui Invitational (from Oahu) should be interesting.

I would also enjoy it if Marquette stomps a mud hole in UCLA in the same event late tonight (Eastern time).

[Xville]

Ugh I wanted Ike so bad this offseason. He’d be such a great piece for the team this year.

[Xville]

Kind of a joke that Purdue is #2 in the country. I can buy top 10-15 maybe

[paulxu]

4-6 vs 18-21.
F Purdue

[GoMuskies]

Kenny Payne has figured it out at Louisville?

[Xville]

Kenny Payne has figured it out at Louisville?

Looks like they will win more than 4. How much more who knows. This may be their ceiling which means they will still lose a lot of games

[XUGRAD80]

Kenny Payne has figured it out at Louisville?

Not so fast my friend. Loserville still sucks.

[X-band '01]

Kind of a joke that Purdue is #2 in the country. I can buy top 10-15 maybe

Purdue woke up.

[Xville]

If Gonzaga is #11, x is going to the final four

[Xville]

Purdue woke up.

I still don’t think they are #2, but we will see as the year goes on. The big ten is kind of meh though

[noteggs]

Providence crushed Wisconsin. Now Wisconsin is crushing UVA. interesting…

[XUGRAD80]

Providence crushed Wisconsin. Now Wisconsin is crushing UVA. interesting…

Lots of parity across the board, especially this early in the season. The transfer portal is a big reason IMO. Lots of new players still learning how to play as a team.

[XUGRAD80]

#16 Kentucky in OT with St. Joseph. St. Joe could have won it in regulation but a missed free throw made it 77-77. It’s now 84-81, UK with 2:19 left.

[noteggs]

Lots of parity across the board, especially this early in the season. The transfer portal is a big reason IMO. Lots of new players still learning how to play as a team.

Oh definitely agree. Kinda my point with the up and downs with our squad. UK game at Kentucky while St Joe just lost to Texas AM - Commerce the other day. Wild times.

[XUGRAD80]

UK wins…a big reason was 23 year old transfer Tre Mitchill hitting 2 3-pointers in OT.

[GIMMFD]

Kenny Payne has figured it out at Louisville?

Considering he said that he wasn't prepared for Woodson to go to a 2-3 zone, and that he tricked him more or less, he may not be figuring it out.

[drudy23]

UCONN is loaded. Athletes everywhere.

[GoMuskies]

That's quite the semifinal round in Maui (Oahu). Three of the top 4 teams and all of them in the top 7.

[Xville]

Wow Syracuse is bad. Also makes me feel good about my Purdue bet tonight considering Tennessee had such problems putting them away until the last 2-3 mins of the game yesterday.

[Xville]

UCONN is loaded. Athletes everywhere.

Yeah and they don’t even have their stud freshman available right now. Insane.

[Xville]

Are these Maui refs the same crew from Vegas? They are absolutely terrible on both sides.

[X-band '01]

There is a team on the floor right now that will be #1 next week. It is not Kansas.

[GoMuskies]

So Marquette doesn't suck, you say?

They'll still have to beat Purdue to claim that crown, but that seems pretty likely at this point.

[X-band '01]

At the very least, taunting Marquette's bench in the 1st half backfired badly for Kansas.

[GoMuskies]

Is Hunter Dickinson the new Timme?

[Xville]

Big East has two well oiled machines this year. What Shaka has built there is impressive.

[muskiefan82]

I would have lost a bet if you told me Kolek would end up this good.

[GIMMFD]

Is Hunter Dickinson the new Timme?

Nah, Dickinson is douchey ON AND OFF the court, Timme never really made waves off the court that I can remember top of my head.

[Xavgrad08]

Purdue hangs on to beat Marquette. Edey finishes with 28. Purdue will be the number one on Monday.

[Xville]

What was kam jones doing that last possession?

[Xavgrad08]

What was kam jones doing that last possession?

Lol Marquette definitely should have been able to get a better look. Jones shot didn’t hit anything.

[GoMuskies]

Was checking today's scores at ESPN.com, noticed FAU won the Disney Thanksgiving event and was wondering about their schedule. They actually have a pretty interesting schedule this year. Bringing back most of a Final Four team will do that for you, I guess.

They opened against Loyola at DePaul's home court (Wintrust). They just finished up three games at Disney World (wins over Butler, #12 Texas A&M and a rout of VaTech). In a week they'll play Illinois at MSG. 11 days later St. Bonny in Springfield, MA. And 7 days after that Arizona in Las Vegas.

Puzzling loss to Bryant notwithstanding (how did they only score 52 against that team?!?), we'll certainly know a lot about FAU's team by Christmas.

[GoMuskies]

Also, I just learned that Fran Dunphy is coaching LaSalle. I'm sure it was in the coaching carousel thread at some point, but I guess I missed it. That has to be a record for most D-I head coaching job switches without actually having to move. Hopefully he's still got time to get a few games in at St. Joe's and Villanova to complete the Big Five circuit. Maybe throw Drexel in for fun, too.

[CP05XU08CU13]

What Shaka has built in a short amount of time is very impressive indeed! Not sure why Xavier cannot get to this point or the last time we were ranked in the top 5. Either way, we should be consistently good and not a Big East sleeper. You cannot tell me that Xavier cannot get the same type of talent the teams like Marquette and Creighton get. UCONN and Villanova have the name recognition and the history. Why we do not continue to reload every year as a basketball first school is beyond me.

[GoMuskies]

Outside of the four years of you know who, we pretty much have reloaded as a basketball first school. The last three years that didn't involve you know who were Elite Eight, #1 seed, Sweet Sixteen.

And the two years before that #2 seed and Sweet Sixteen.

[American X]

You cannot tell me that Xavier cannot get the same type of talent the teams like Marquette and Creighton get. UCONN and Villanova have the name recognition and the history. Why we do not continue to reload every year as a basketball first school is beyond me.

With Zack Freemantle and Jerome Hunter, Xavier would have been pretty loaded this year.

[CP05XU08CU13]

Lack of depth has definitely been the Achilles’ heel for Xavier over the years. This year is no different. Cannot just have a “next man up” mentality and not produce on the court. If Xavier wants to take the next step as a program, the nonstarters need to be just a notch below the starters. No reason why Xavier should not be able to rise to level of a Villanova or Marquette and eventually win a national championship. The amount of money that has been invested in the program and facilities should be attractive to recruits. We need consistent results especially with Miller at the helm!

[GoMuskies]

Marquette is better this year, but how are we not at the level of Marquette generally?

[Xville]

Marquette isn’t recruiting any better than Xavier so I’m not sure what exactly the point is? Kolek has turned in to someone that no one really expected, and jones and igohdaro are upperclassmen that were top 100 kids but certainly not top 50 or higher. Miller had to rebuild the roster due to the moron coach we had before who couldn’t coach or recruit. I know it sucks in a lot of ways, but we gotta be patient and let miller refill the pipeline.

[xudash]

Marquette isn’t recruiting any better than Xavier so I’m not sure what exactly the point is? Kolek has turned in to someone that no one really expected, and jones and igohdaro are upperclassmen that were top 100 kids but certainly not top 50 or higher. Miller had to rebuild the roster due to the moron coach we had before who couldn’t coach or recruit. I know it sucks in a lot of ways, but we gotta be patient and let miller refill the pipeline.

This, and what GOMUSKIES wrote. NIL be damned, although I believe we’ll survive that as well, but the long view is solid.

[X-band '01]

Marquette isn’t recruiting any better than Xavier so I’m not sure what exactly the point is? Kolek has turned in to someone that no one really expected, and jones and igohdaro are upperclassmen that were top 100 kids but certainly not top 50 or higher. Miller had to rebuild the roster due to the moron coach we had before who couldn’t coach or recruit. I know it sucks in a lot of ways, but we gotta be patient and let miller refill the pipeline.

I'm sure he'll be happy with 40 point wins over Spalding.

[JTG]

Marquette is better this year, but how are we not at the level of Marquette generally?

Not sure of your age, but Marquette has a rich history to draw on. 1 Natty, 3 Final Fours. They are a bigger school, with more money. X has had the misfortune of always running into a buzz saw at some point in the second weekend. We just have to get over the hump one of these days.

[GoMuskies]

Not sure of your age, but Marquette has a rich history to draw on. 1 Natty, 3 Final Fours.

I'm aware of their ancient history. UC and even Dayton have those, too. In the modern era (outside of one Dwayne Wade filled NCAA Tournament run), Xavier has been every bit as good a program as Marquette (arguably better).

To back that up, since Xavier joined the A-10 in 1995-96, Xavier has won 25 NCAA Tournament games. Marquette has won 17. In the Big East era, Xavier has won 9 NCAA Tournament games. Marquette? 1

How great would Xavier fans be feeling about the program if we'd have won 1 NCAA Tournament game in a decade? Do you know when the last time you could say that about Xavier was? 1987, right before we won our first ever NCAA Tournament game.

[bleedXblue]

I'm aware of their ancient history. UC and even Dayton have those, too. In the modern era (outside of one Dwayne Wade filled NCAA Tournament run), Xavier has been every bit as good a program as Marquette (arguably better).

To back that up, since Xavier joined the A-10 in 1995-96, Xavier has won 25 NCAA Tournament games. Marquette has won 17. In the Big East era, Xavier has won 9 NCAA Tournament games. Marquette? 1

How great would Xavier fans be feeling about the program if we'd have won 1 NCAA Tournament game in a decade? Do you know when the last time you could say that about Xavier was? 1987, right before we won our first ever NCAA Tournament game.

We need a good coach to actually stay and see things through. Smart is just now capitalizing on being there in his 3rd year and is ahead of schedule IMHO.

[D-West & PO-Z]

What Shaka has built in a short amount of time is very impressive indeed! Not sure why Xavier cannot get to this point or the last time we were ranked in the top 5. Either way, we should be consistently good and not a Big East sleeper. You cannot tell me that Xavier cannot get the same type of talent the teams like Marquette and Creighton get. UCONN and Villanova have the name recognition and the history. Why we do not continue to reload every year as a basketball first school is beyond me.

See Steele, Travis.

Shaka did it quickly, no doubt. Miller year 3 and beyond will have us consistently competing for the BE crown, imo.

[D-West & PO-Z]

We need a good coach to actually stay and see things through. Smart is just now capitalizing on being there in his 3rd year and is ahead of schedule IMHO.

See Miller, Sean.

[bleedXblue]

See Miller, Sean.

Yeah, we shall see. I want to believe that he will be here for 10+ years but he bolted before for a better opp.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Yeah, we shall see. I want to believe that he will be here for 10+ years but he bolted before for a better opp.

Yeah, I will never say never and I have not been shocked when other coaches have left but there is something comfortable about Miller having already taken that route and come back. He's made a lot of money, and while more money is always enticing, I feel more secure than I have with him as coach (in terms of not leaving) than I have before.

[drudy23]

Steele set us back years with his coaching. He ruined players. He had teams that good/great coaches would have made runs with. Imagine Paul Scruggs with a good coach. Imagine Naji Marshall with a good coach. Players got worse under his style, and it killed the momentum of this program coming off of a number 1 seed. Completely deflated it.

A coach with Miller's pedigree was hired to get us back to that level sooner than would be expected under normal circumstances. If I'm being honest, I am concerned about our recruiting profile. The perennial Big East contenders (UConn, Marquette, Creighton, Villanova) are getting the difference makers and we seem to be getting the tier below.

Tough to judge Miller on that so far. We've needed beef for 5+ years and we still don't have it.

Travis Steele made us have to climb the mountain again. We're back where we were when Mack took over. He raised the profile in his tenure. Steele punctured that balloon.

[GoMuskies]

I'm not sure I'm understanding the "woe is us" coming from this thread. Sure, Steele sucked, but we were in the Sweet 16, swept the national champs and were in the Big East Tournament finals last season. We've won twice as many NCAA Tournament games in the last 9 months than "perennial contender" Marquette has won in a decade. Creighton has been to the Sweet Sixteen like twice in its history. If you want to look up at Villanova and UConn and see that we have quite a hill to climb, sure. But Marquette and Creighton? I don't see it.

[drudy23]

I'm not sure I'm understanding the "woe is us" coming from this thread. Sure, Steele sucked, but we were in the Sweet 16, swept the national champs and were in the Big East Tournament finals last season. We've won twice as many NCAA Tournament games in the last 9 months as "perennial contender" Marquette has won in a decade. Creighton has been to the Sweet Sixteen like twice in its history. If you want to look up at Villanova and UConn and see that we have quite a hill to climb, sure. But Marquette and Creighton? I don't see it.

This shows we had a good enough team to be relevant, and Steele took us to irrelevance. Hell, Jonas Hayes got more out of these guys.

It's not a leap to say these 4 teams have better players. To me, that's pretty obvious just by watching the games. But I also agree that teams like Creighton and Marquette have vastly under-performed in the tournament.

[GoMuskies]

They definitely have better teams this year. No doubt about that. I don't see how their programs are in any way superior to ours, though. I can live with a bad year here and there as long as the program is solid. And we're in fine shape (no thanks to that one guy).

[drudy23]

UConn and Nova have superior programs. Creighton and Marquette, eh, they need to win in March.

[Xville]

You could argue that UConn is the most successful program in the modern game and nova is probably top 5. No real shame in being behind those. We are not behind creighton and Marquette as programs. This year? Yeah program? Nope

[xudash]

See Steele, Travis.

Shaka did it quickly, no doubt. Miller year 3 and beyond will have us consistently competing for the BE crown, imo.

This

Sean comes back and in his first year with Steele's personnel he takes us to a S16.

We come into this year missing Freemantle and a refound Hunter due to unfortunate injuries.

Oakland turned out to not be anywhere near a gimmie.

Who knows what will happen Friday, but I still believe Sean can mold these guys into an NCAAT team by the end of the season, understanding that that will have to be accomplished with some key wins in the BE.

Nonetheless, beyond all of this, with Sean at the age of 55 and truly grateful to be back on Victory Parkway, I believe Steele's Final 2% will be achieved.

We have a bright future.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I'm not sure I'm understanding the "woe is us" coming from this thread. Sure, Steele sucked, but we were in the Sweet 16, swept the national champs and were in the Big East Tournament finals last season. We've won twice as many NCAA Tournament games in the last 9 months than "perennial contender" Marquette has won in a decade. Creighton has been to the Sweet Sixteen like twice in its history. If you want to look up at Villanova and UConn and see that we have quite a hill to climb, sure. But Marquette and Creighton? I don't see it.

Yes, I definitely agree.

Marquette does seem to be able to get that top tier 5 star guy we can't get, but yeah we have been a far superior program than them (and Creighton) since joining the Big East.

[bleedXblue]

This

Sean comes back and in his first year with Steele's personnel he takes us to a S16.

We come into this year missing Freemantle and a refound Hunter due to unfortunate injuries.

Oakland turned out to not be anywhere near a gimmie.

Who knows what will happen Friday, but I still believe Sean can mold these guys into an NCAAT team by the end of the season, understanding that that will have to be accomplished with some key wins in the BE.

Nonetheless, beyond all of this, with Sean at the age of 55 and truly grateful to be back on Victory Parkway, I believe Steele's Final 2% will be achieved.

We have a bright future.

I want to be optimistic for this year, but we are woefully limited in the post. We have 1 guy who is a true post player with experience. Ciani has been a nice surprise as a frosh. I think our guard play will be ok and I think that guys like Swain and Lazar will improve and give us some decent production. I just dont know how were going to compete with teams with good, physical front courts.

[Xavgrad08]

Kentucky loses to UNC Wilmington. Duke loses to Georgia Tech. Scheyer has been crushing it on the recruiting side, but needs to improve on the coaching side.

[JTG]

I want to be optimistic for this year, but we are woefully limited in the post. We have 1 guy who is a true post player with experience. Ciani has been a nice surprise as a frosh. I think our guard play will be ok and I think that guys like Swain and Lazar will improve and give us some decent production. I just dont know how were going to compete with teams with good, physical front courts.

Ciani is physical, he just needs more seasoning. Euro ball is more finesse, and that's all our 3 guys have been exposed to, until these first 8 games. Ousmane did play better against Houston. And judging from this past week, I'm not so sure the BE is the juggernaut people are making them out to be.

[noteggs]

Vermont trailed Yale by 5 with 3.8 seconds in regulation. Vermont beats Yale by 1 in regulation. Unreal finish!

[X-band '01]

Yale still led by 5 with under a second in regulation. Vermont finished the game on a 4-point play.

[JEHARDI]

Ciani is physical, he just needs more seasoning. Euro ball is more finesse, and that's all our 3 guys have been exposed to, until these first 8 games. Ousmane did play better against Houston. And judging from this past week, I'm not so sure the BE is the juggernaut people are making them out to be.

May be accurate regarding the BE but can also make that claim about every league right now. A lot of head scratching upsets everywhere you look.

[Xville]

I dunno if Nebraska is any good but what creighton is doing them might be illegal. Yikes

[X-band '01]

Creighton was still pissed off about losing to Nebraska last year.

[Xville]

Rutgers have some large nil collective I don’t know about? They grabbed the number 2 and 3 ranked basketball recruit for next year. Huh?

[bleedXblue]

Rutgers have some large nil collective I don’t know about? They grabbed the number 2 and 3 ranked basketball recruit for next year. Huh?

they are buddies from what I understand Agree too and all it takes is 1-2 large donors who have money to burn

[JTG]

Rutgers have some large nil collective I don’t know about? They grabbed the number 2 and 3 ranked basketball recruit for next year. Huh?

Well it is in NJ, the home of Organized Crime. A mobbed up fan could consider it an investment by having 2 guys he could control. I read recently that even with the BIG boatload of money Rutgers gets, their Athletic Dept is $250million in debt.

[Xville]

Purdue getting worked over by a more athletic team. What else is new.

[Xville]

Is duke not very good? Sure seems it. Maybe scheyer isn’t good

[GoMuskies]

I think Hofstra is probably pretty good. And there's still a half to widen the spread.

[Xville]

I think Hofstra is probably pretty good. And there's still a half to widen the spread.

Slu, who is terrible, beat them.

This game notwithstanding though, I’m wondering what duke is going to look like in 2-3 years.

[GoMuskies]

Speaking of bad teams with a nice win, Bryant kept it interesting with UC. Only down 8 with less than 10 minutes to play. Certainly nothing like our game against them.

[muskiefan82]

All those fouls caught up to Bryant and then the team lost its composure altogether. Not a good look for them, but UC did not look like a team ready for the Big 12 either. I have to say that will be a large mountain for them to climb this year. Kinda like their football team

[paulxu]

Court just said multiple transfer athletes don't have to sit a year.

NCAA caved and said OK.

Guys will be swapping schools like trading cards.

[noteggs]

Probably will end up that way.

As for now, think judge just issued a 14 day temporary restraining order to do so

Edit: can be referred to as the Wes Miller rule

[Xville]

Chicago state just won at northwestern and creighton is getting it handed to them at half at unlv. College bb is crazy so far this year

[Xville]

Well, add creighton to the list of teams with bad losses

[noteggs]

Yeah that was bad. Guess that’s what happens when you’re cold from 3. But not the only reason for loss

Boy does Kevin Kruger look like his dad.

[noteggs]

Speaking of crazy. Weird shit happening in the Louisville basketball program. This time not on the court. Ville, what do you know about this Koron Davis stuff? Was he any good?

NM…saw it in the coaching thread

[muskiefan82]

Speaking of crazy. Weird shit happening in the Louisville basketball program. This time not on the court. Ville, what do you know about this Koron Davis stuff? Was he any good?

NM…saw it in the coaching thread

I am confused by this. It seems like most of Louisvilles issues prior to the last year or so have NOT been on the court. LOL

[Xville]

In tomorrow’s edition of dumb things that college basketball does:

Top ten matchup tomorrow night between UCONN and Gonzaga

No football to contend with, so what’s the problem?

10pm est tip time.


Geezus.

[GoMuskies]

Is Gonzaga any good this year? Seems like a game where UConn might dominate (other than the fact it's on the West coast).

[94GRAD]

In tomorrow’s edition of dumb things that college basketball does:

Top ten matchup tomorrow night between UCONN and Gonzaga

No football to contend with, so what’s the problem?

10pm est tip time.


Geezus.

So you want people out west to have to leave work at 3pm to make a 4pm tipoff so us East Coasters can watch the game at 7pm?

[GoMuskies]

6pm could work for everyone.

And Seattle's arena is called Climate Pledge Arena?!?

[Xville]

So you want people out west to have to leave work at 3pm to make a 4pm tipoff so us East Coasters can watch the game at 7pm?

Is there something wrong with 8 or 9? Call me crazy but starting a top ten matchup at 9 or 10pm for half the country ( and the one that primarily cares about bb btw) is really stupid. It’s decisions like this that continue to make college basketball lag in interest outside of March.

[94GRAD]

Is there something wrong with 8 or 9? Call me crazy but starting a top ten matchup at 9 or 10pm for half the country ( and the one that primarily cares about bb btw) is really stupid. It’s decisions like this that continue to make college basketball lag in interest outside of March.

This needed to be a Saturday game for sure

[xubrew]

The Arizona v Purdue game this Saturday is between two of the top 3 teams, and it is on Peacock behind the paywall. College basketball is modeling itself after World Cup qualifying! Crazy times and limited access are suddenly commonplace.

[Xville]

The Arizona v Purdue game this Saturday is between two of the top 3 teams, and it is on Peacock behind the paywall. College basketball is modeling itself after World Cup qualifying! Crazy times and limited access are suddenly commonplace.

I think I could make a decent living off a “stupid things that ncaa basketball does” social media page.

[X-band '01]

6pm could work for everyone.

And Seattle's arena is called Climate Pledge Arena?!?

That's right, it was originally Key Arena before the city of Seattle completely rebuilt the interior of that arena. They had to save the exterior structure because it's registered as a historic place or something.

Once the Kraken became the primary tenant (NHL games), Amazon acquired the naming rights and decided to call it Climate Pledge Arena. It's the most Seattle thing ever.

[MHettel]

That's right, it was originally Key Arena before the city of Seattle completely rebuilt the interior of that arena. They had to save the exterior structure because it's registered as a historic place or something.

Once the Kraken became the primary tenant (NHL games), Amazon acquired the naming rights and decided to call it Climate Pledge Arena. It's the most Seattle thing ever.

The roof and the windos of Key arean where apparently deemed "historic" in some way and had to be retained. They took the roof off, suspened it above the site using cranes (for like 2 years), then dug down 50 or so feet to create more "space" for seating becasue Key only had like 15K seats which was not enough for NBA (why the Sonics left) and very few suites. Then they rebuilt alot of the exterior and reinstalled the Windows and Roof. Pretty amazing engineering feat.

Also, being Seatlle it rains alot. And they collect the rain from the high pitched roof and use the rainwater to make the ice for the Kraken.....

[Xville]

Uc may suck. Dayton I think is pretty good but uc is getting handed it to them on their home floor. They’ll be lucky to win 4 big 12 games

[X-band '01]

It was played at Heritage Bank Arena, but that is flat out embarrassing. At least they get 3 more buy games before the Big 12 cannibalizes them.

[American X]

The Arizona v Purdue game this Saturday is between two of the top 3 teams, and it is on Peacock behind the paywall.

Seems it would have been a fun, high-scoring marquee game to watch, but too bad it did not actually exist on Peacock. Does the win not count for the NET like Division II games?

Also, the local Indianapolis CBS station broadcast the Colts-Steelers NFL Network feed, so UK fans must have lost their minds when they discovered their Wildcats game against UNC was not available.

[X-band '01]

Uc may suck. Dayton I think is pretty good but uc is getting handed it to them on their home floor. They’ll be lucky to win 4 big 12 games


It was played at Heritage Bank Arena, but that is flat out embarrassing. At least they get 3 more buy games before the Big 12 cannibalizes them.

I was even more horrified when I saw the jerseys both teams broke out for that "classic." It was also a home game in name only for UC - they were outnumbered by UD fans.

[Xville]

I was even more horrified when I saw the jerseys both teams broke out for that "classic." It was also a home game in name only for UC - they were outnumbered by UD fans.

Didn’t realize it was being played at that s hole. Not surprised by the crowd numbers. One thing about Dayton, they do support their team really well. Uc is meh.

[noteggs]

Went to Arthur’s before game last night. Must have had tunnel vision because I was like “what the hell is with all the uc and ud sweatshirts?” Oh yeah…

[X-band '01]

If you thought the Indiana-Morehead State game would be an 11-point game at halftime, you would be right. If you told me Morehead was the team leading by 11, I'd say you need to stop taking acid.

[Xville]

The citadel up 16 on notre dame with about 8 minutes left. Geezus nd is bad

[Xavgrad08]

Memphis looks like they have some good players this year. Virginia still can’t score the ball.

[X-band '01]

Time for some Mick Cronin postgame theater. UCLA just lost at home to Cal State-Northridge. Woof

[muskiefan82]

Time for some Mick Cronin postgame theater. UCLA just lost at home to Cal State-Northridge. Woof

He really is a dick. Kids aren't going to deal with this type of coaching anymore I think. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=945YoAMxI_Y

[UCGRAD4X]

He really is a dick. Kids aren't going to deal with this type of coaching anymore I think. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=945YoAMxI_Y

Did he really complain about someone on the other team becoming eligible? There are no rules anymore?

[D-West & PO-Z]

He really is a dick. Kids aren't going to deal with this type of coaching anymore I think. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=945YoAMxI_Y

Thank you for sharing. He is the worst, lol. Inject his post game pressers after a loss into my veins!

[Xville]

Whines and complains about everything and takes zero responsibility for anything. Maybe just maybe you don’t know how to motivate your players. It’s either that or you misjudged their talent when you recruited them.

[GIMMFD]

Whines and complains about everything and takes zero responsibility for anything. Maybe just maybe you don’t know how to motivate your players. It’s either that or you misjudged their talent when you recruited them.

Still shocking to me that UCLA hired him, how his personality meshes with LA, I just don't understand. I get the USC is the "flashy LA school", but I don't think leprechauns are known to thrive out west like that. He's an okay coach, repulsive offense, but what big name recruit would want to play for someone so... brash?

[D-West & PO-Z]

He really compared the blue blood UCLA to a mid market level MLB team in the Reds.

That is fucking hilarious.

[GoMuskies]

Is Calipari going to lose to Louisville on purpose to save Payne? Better for Calipari to have that clown at Louisville instead of someone competent.

[GoMuskies]

Is Calipari going to lose to Louisville on purpose to save Payne? Better for Calipari to have that clown at Louisville instead of someone competent.

Guess not! I was pretty shocked the spread was only 13.5.

[noteggs]

Looks like a neutral site vs at Louisville. Kinda reminds of the IU-X game last year.

[GIMMFD]

James Madison is such a fun story overall, it's a great little campus in Harrisonburg, VA, driven by it numerous times on road trips, and they have some solid support. Just the rise to FBS in football now, the extreme success they've had in all sports, all they were waiting for was men's basketball to get it going, and they're pretty damn good this year. I really like Mark Byington, he seems like a damn good coach, don't let the 198-133 record fool you. He had a decent winning pattern at a pretty historically tough Georgia Southern program as well.

[UCGRAD4X]

James Madison is such a fun story overall, it's a great little campus in Harrisonburg, VA, driven by it numerous times on road trips, and they have some solid support. Just the rise to FBS in football now, the extreme success they've had in all sports, all they were waiting for was men's basketball to get it going, and they're pretty damn good this year. I really like Mark Byington, he seems like a damn good coach, don't let the 198-133 record fool you. He had a decent winning pattern at a pretty historically tough Georgia Southern program as well.

I think that is a pretty damn impressive number. Just coaching for 331 games is nothing to sneeze at. https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia1.tenor.com%2Fimages%2F239af 600b8d0848e2c3ff5a05766d464%2Ftenor.gif%3Fitemid%3 D4102418&f=1&nofb=1&ipt=9852349af7990c579f1708758b038f0fd0536f4c47a56f 69478c8d610195e9e6&ipo=images

[Xavgrad08]

UCLA loses at home to Maryland. Neither team looked very good on offense. Young for Maryland finished with 37pts. Going to be a long season for Mick this year.

[GIMMFD]

I think that is a pretty damn impressive number. Just coaching for 331 games is nothing to sneeze at. https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia1.tenor.com%2Fimages%2F239af 600b8d0848e2c3ff5a05766d464%2Ftenor.gif%3Fitemid%3 D4102418&f=1&nofb=1&ipt=9852349af7990c579f1708758b038f0fd0536f4c47a56f 69478c8d610195e9e6&ipo=images

Haha I think because it's just a little above .500 some people would think "what's so special about that?" but he's done well where he's been, not to mention he's only 47 so plenty of years left to rack up some wins. Also another impressive coaching job I've seen is Tony Skinn at George Mason, former player there who was part of that cinderella run, never had a head coaching job before, George Mason roll the dice on him, and is sitting at an impressive 10-2. They were down 13 against a good Tulane team yesterday and climbed back to win, they have a good squad too.

[GoMuskies]

FAU/Arizona is a great game. Headed to OT in Vegas.

Double OT

[GoMuskies]

Great win for FAU. Will legitimize them on Selection Sunday after they spend the next two months in the AAC. Looking forward to going to see them play live here in Wichita.

[Xavgrad08]

Great win for FAU. Will legitimize them on Selection Sunday after they spend the next two months in the AAC. Looking forward to going to see them play live here in Wichita.

It was a very entertaining game.Dusty May has built a really good team. Will be interesting where May coaches at next and when. With a final 4 on the resume he will be in high demand. Guessing he is currently living the good life in Florida so he can be selective.

[X-band '01]

Florida State has had better days. Today, not so much.

[GoMuskies]

Notre Dame drilling Virginia is surprising.

[Masterofreality]

San Diego State, who I saw in Vegas, beat Gonzaga.
Not surprising.

[X-band '01]

We'll see if this is finally the year where the Mountain West has multiple teams win NCAA Tournament games this year. They're clearly ahead of the WCC this year, Gonzaga included.

[X-band '01]

Notre Dame drilling Virginia is surprising.

Not terribly surprising if you've seen the last 4 UVA games, Notre Dame included. Memphis blew them out and UVa barely beat Northeastern at home.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Great win for FAU. Will legitimize them on Selection Sunday after they spend the next two months in the AAC. Looking forward to going to see them play live here in Wichita.

Arizona matchup was the best all year but hey just dropped a road game in conference to FGCU.

[GoMuskies]

Mick Cronin, whose UCLA team is now 6-8, continues to make friends and influence people.

https://burnerball.com/off-the-burner-1-4-24/

[paulxu]

Mick Cronin’s act is tired.

Cronin took to the media to bash his team again and while this isn’t anything new for him, it’s starting to get real old, real fast.

Ya think?

[X-band '01]

I wouldn't stop laughing for a month if it's true that he goes to Louisville (assuming Kenny Payne does get fired).

[Xville]

I wouldn't stop laughing for a month if it's true that he goes to Louisville (assuming Kenny Payne does get fired).

I highly doubt they go after him. 1.) he’s a defensive coach which doesn’t play well at Louisville and 2) he’s a pitino disciple and 3) he’s a pr nightmare, something Louisville should avoid like the plague.

Heird actually gets to choose this time unlike last time. I think he will make a smart decision when the time comes

[GoMuskies]

I wouldn't stop laughing for a month if it's true that he goes to Louisville (assuming Kenny Payne does get fired).

His doosh of a brother at Churchill Downs all the time instead of Turfway? Please no.

[Xavgrad08]

UC got a road win last night at BYU. I didn't think either team played well, but that is a solid NET win for UC. Mick and his Bruins lost to first year Cal coach Mark Madsen. Mick sent an assistant to do the postgame interviews with the media. Bill Plaschke of the LA times was not impressed.
https://www.latimes.com/sports/ucla/story/2024-01-07/mick-cronin-ucla-meltdown-take-responsibility

[UCGRAD4X]

Historically, the worse his team plays, the more he always seems to blame it on the players...this week his personal rips reached a new and disturbing low when he not only threw his young team under the bus, but then threw the bus into drive and gunned the gas.

Nothing new here folks.

They have seven freshmen and eight newcomers...brought in 4 international players...

Oh Waah!!! No shit Sherlock. But then...

This type of media strategy may have worked for Cronin in Cincinnati, but it doesn’t play in Los Angeles. The sophisticated fan base demands it.

Ask any unsophisticated Xavier fan...

[X-band '01]

UC got a road win last night at BYU. I didn't think either team played well, but that is a solid NET win for UC. Mick and his Bruins lost to first year Cal coach Mark Madsen. Mick sent an assistant to do the postgame interviews with the media. Bill Plaschke of the LA times was not impressed.
https://www.latimes.com/sports/ucla/story/2024-01-07/mick-cronin-ucla-meltdown-take-responsibility

My two takeaways there would be: 1)UC actually does have a legitimate win on their resume now and 2)that is not a good sign for BYU that they got outmuscled by a more athletic UC team like that. They are not in the WCC anymore and will have more of a rude awakening than UC, apparently.

[Xville]

My two takeaways there would be: 1)UC actually does have a legitimate win on their resume now and 2)that is not a good sign for BYU that they got outmuscled by a more athletic UC team like that. They are not in the WCC anymore and will have more of a rude awakening than UC, apparently.

BYU kept almost everyone from last year, a year where they weren’t all that great. In fact, they were picked to be near the bottom of the big 12 this year. However, early on, they didn’t have to deal with all the adjustments of new players so they were ahead of everyone. at least that’s my guess, but now things are going to come home to roost in big 12 play.

[GoMuskies]

#2 already down tonight. #1 on their way down?

And we got to play them both!

[UCGRAD4X]

#2 already down tonight. #1 on their way down?

And we get to play them both!

opportunity knocks

[Xville]

#2 already down tonight. #1 on their way down?

And we got to play them both!

Wilcher had a really good game. I know he isn't starting for them, but hes a solid depth player and can shoot. Wish X still had him, but steele was an idiot.

[paulxu]

Hah! UCF beats Kansas.

[X-band '01]

Utah is absolutely sodomizing Mick Cronin's team right now. Cronin Postgame Theater to commence in about 10 minutes.

[Xavgrad08]

Utah is absolutely sodomizing Mick Cronin's team right now. Cronin Postgame Theater to commence in about 10 minutes.

This year is getting real ugly for Mick. Is he the coach at UCLA next year?

[noteggs]

Utah is absolutely sodomizing Mick Cronin's team right now. Cronin Postgame Theater to commence in about 10 minutes.

PC was dark comedy for sure…yikes

https://x.com/ericliiiy/status/1745661167765209381?s=42&t=U5TyKr_wshJKowj_nNzfHg

Scroll down for more humor

[X-band '01]

He's also never had anyone tell him to F off 3 times before.

[Xavgrad08]

OSU lost to a bad Michigan team. OSU is currently 2-4 in Big Ten play coming off a season in which they missed the NCAA tournament. Holtmann needs to start winning or the incoming new OSU AD will be conducting a coaching search.

[Blue Blooded-05]

OSU lost to a bad Michigan team. OSU is currently 2-4 in Big Ten play coming off a season in which they missed the NCAA tournament. Holtmann needs to start winning or the incoming new OSU AD will be conducting a coaching search.

I live in Columbus. I know more than 1 person who thinks Sean Miller is a 100% certainty to coach there next year. Who could pass up the opportunity to coach in a conference that hasn’t won a natty in 24 years where they’ll play 2nd fiddle to the football program in a half full arena?

[X-band '01]

There are 5 teams in the B1G right now that I think have legitimate shots of making the NCAA Tournament as of right now. Purdue, Wisconsin, Illinois, Northwestern and Nebraska. No one else has been impressive at all.

Michigan State has been completely underwhelming this year.

[X-band '01]

UC fans rushing the floor after an overtime win over...TCU?

It's like they haven't seen a good win at home since the Gnome went to UCLA.

[XUGRAD80]

UC fans rushing the floor after an overtime win over...TCU?

It's like they haven't seen a good win at home since the Gnome went to UCLA.

That was a their 1st ever home B12 win, and TCU came in ranked 19th, so I understand them being excited and happy. BUT….rushing the floor like that is just a little much. Probably is their best home win in awhile, but still……..:jawdrop2:

[bjf123]

Maybe I missed it, but when was the last time the students rushed the floor at Cintas?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[GoMuskies]

I feel personally attacked by Mick and his UCLA team breaking their 4 game losing streak (and stretch of 8 losses in 9 games) by pounding Washington on Sunday.

[STL_XUfan]

Maybe I missed it, but when was the last time the students rushed the floor at Cintas?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
The 2007 Women's A-10 Tournament is the only time I know that the Students have "rushed" the floor at Cintas, and even that was mainly just the men's team a few other that got through with them.

There has been a few times that the Students were "invited down to the floor" for a net cutting after we won the conference, but it occurred after the other team left the floor and was invited by the staff.

[XUGRAD80]

The only time that I can remember the fans being out on the court after a game. was back in the Cincinnati Gardens days when X came from behind to beat Princeton and get a berth in the NIT final 4 in New York. Long before the BE days, so going to NYC to play in MSG was a big deal. The loud speakers were blasting out Sinatra singing New York! New York! and it was a magical evening for those in attendance. Still one of my best ever Xavier memories.

[xubrew]

I'm a huge fan of court stormings when they should not happen, so I loved this! Storming the court against TCU is great!

I always wanted to see a major program's fans to rush the floor after a buy game win. And to do it HUGE!! Plan it out the way Silent Night is planned out at Taylor University, and when the game is over just go absolutely nuts!! And have that be the only time all year they ever stormed the court. I know I have a weird sense of humor, but to me this would have been great! It would have been the chance for student to storm the court, and in doing so make a complete mockery out of storming the court.

[X-band '01]

Let's just say there has never been a true rush in the Cintas Center era. Wins have become expected and I'm truly fine with that.

[paulxu]

It's very strange to see Louisville at the bottom of the ACC.
I'm guessing that's hard for roughly 1/2 the basketball fans in Kentucky.

[GoMuskies]

Well, about 1/10 of the basketball fans in Kentucky, but yes.

I really like Wake's coach Forbes, by the way. They really smacked the Cards around today.

[X-band '01]

What was strange was Louisville winning an ACC road game under Kenny Payne at Miami.

[paulxu]

Watched this guy play for a couple years at Wofford.
He transferred to Wisky, and you don't see this very often:


Klesmit scored 20 consecutive Wisconsin points during a second-half span of just over 4 1/2 minutes, and the 11th-ranked Badgers beat Indiana 91-79 to continue their home mastery of the Hoosiers.

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap/_/gameId/401600340

[Xuperman]

Watched this guy play for a couple years at Wofford.
He transferred to Wisky, and you don't see this very often:



https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/recap/_/gameId/401600340

That's a crazy stat, but the 20-0 home win streak vs the Hoosiers is even crazier.

In other things that make you go hmmm. West Virginia takes down Kansas.....Houston blasted them by 34 a few games ago.

[Xville]

Duke, Kansas and uc all losing the same day? 6 to midnight.

[Xuperman]

Watching this Wisky/MSU game. The best player on the floor is a BEast reject. Purdue is legit because of the mouse gain size freak, but the rest are overrated.

If our boys can get in, any other B10 team would be an excellent draw.

[GoMuskies]

Virginia 41, Louisville 13 at halftime. Yet Kenny Payne remains employed.

[Xville]

Virginia 41, Louisville 13 at halftime. Yet Kenny Payne remains employed.

Wouldn’t worry too much about it. It’s just because of dollars. He will be gone at the end of the season, just not worth the extra couple mil to get rid of him now and the team still suck

[Xavgrad08]

Dayton loses at Richmond. OSU is currently down 30 plus at Northwestern.

[Xville]

Dayton loses at Richmond. OSU is currently down 30 plus at Northwestern.

As my man ice cube said.. today was a good day

[paulxu]

It's hard for me to imagine Louisville in last place in the ACC.

Don't hear any talk of the "Power Six" these days.

I have NO idea what the Pac12 (if it exists) will look like next year.

[X-band '01]

If you're asking about Oregon State and Washington State, they're going to play predominantly WCC foes and be eligible for the WCC Tournament next season. Their respective football teams will play predominantly Mountain West teams.

[UCGRAD4X]

it's hard for me to imagine louisville in last place in the acc.

Don't hear any talk of the "power six" these days.

I have no idea what the pac12 (if it exists) will look like next year.

a10

[D-West & PO-Z]

So Holtmann might be gone from OSU after this year, is that right?

[chico]

So Holtmann might be gone from OSU after this year, is that right?

Word is they want Musselman. New AD making some changes, even with the huge buyout.

[X-band '01]

Musselman ain't exactly tearing it up at Arkansas this year.

[X-band '01]

New Mexico State player gets even angrier than Abou Ousmane last night:

Robert Carpenter Ejected for Punching Player in Face (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/39441895/new-mexico-state-robert-carpenter-ejected-punch-vs-liberty)

[Xville]

Arkansas is a better job than Ohio state. Better conference, better fan base, more basketball than football school (one of the few in sec)

[Cincypunk.org]

Former X player CJ Witcher had 22 points (5-7 from 3) in Nebraskas upset of #6 Wisconsin in OT last night.

Earlier this year he put up 16 in their upset of #1 Purdue.

Shooting 49% on 3s for the year and 94% from the stripe.

Nice to see him doing well!

[D-West & PO-Z]

Former X player CJ Witcher had 22 points (5-7 from 3) in Nebraskas upset of #6 Wisconsin in OT last night.

Earlier this year he put up 16 in their upset of #1 Purdue.

Shooting 49% on 3s for the year and 94% from the stripe.

Nice to see him doing well!

That is great. I was actually randomly looking at his numbers the other day and was surprised he is getting a lot less mins this year than he did the previous 2 years at Nebraska and I wasn't sure why. Glad he's at least had a couple big games and is def shooting well.

[xubrew]

This thing that CBS is doing with putting a player’s name and stats on the screen when they’re handling the ball…

They must STOP doing this!! They need to stop this IMMEDIATELY!! If they plan on doing this during the tournament, then it may be necessary for the government to take control of the station and MAKE them stop!!!

[Xavgrad08]

After watching a lot of basketball games yesterday, my thoughts on the coaches are below.

-Kansas is incredibly hard to beat at Allen Fieldhouse under Self. Houston doesn't have enough offense to win it all in March, but Sampson like Self is also a great coach. Self in my opinion is the current best coach in College Basketball right now.
- UNC looked really good vs Duke. I doubted Hubert Davis last year, but I think he is going to be the UNC coach for a while and keep them rolling.
-Scheyer has been recruiting well at Duke but at times this year they have not looked well coached. Duke fans are probably hoping he will grow into the coaching role, but an early exit in March would not surprise me.
-Tennessee is really good. Not sure I trust Rick Barnes in March, but he has built a solid program in Tennessee.
-I know UK was without Wagner, but UK is underachieving given the talent they have. I don't think UK fans would be sad if Calipari retired. (I don't think he will)
-This might be the last year at FSU for Hamilton. A loss to Kenny Payne and Louisville is never good.
-Saint Louis is currently in last place in the A10. That should not happen, and they need to part from Travis Ford. That can be a solid job under a better coach.

[X-band '01]

Wonder if Gonzaga students will get a reflection session for throwing objects onto the floor during the last minute of their home loss to Saint Mary's.

This is gonna be a rare year of late where they have to win the WCC Tournament to be assured of an NCAA Tournament bid. That's not a given this year.

[GoMuskies]

Gonzaga has Kentucky next weekend. They'd be well advised to win that one.

[Xville]

After watching a lot of basketball games yesterday, my thoughts on the coaches are below.

-Kansas is incredibly hard to beat at Allen Fieldhouse under Self. Houston doesn't have enough offense to win it all in March, but Sampson like Self is also a great coach. Self in my opinion is the current best coach in College Basketball right now.
- UNC looked really good vs Duke. I doubted Hubert Davis last year, but I think he is going to be the UNC coach for a while and keep them rolling.
-Scheyer has been recruiting well at Duke but at times this year they have not looked well coached. Duke fans are probably hoping he will grow into the coaching role, but an early exit in March would not surprise me.
-Tennessee is really good. Not sure I trust Rick Barnes in March, but he has built a solid program in Tennessee.
-I know UK was without Wagner, but UK is underachieving given the talent they have. I don't think UK fans would be sad if Calipari retired. (I don't think he will)
-This might be the last year at FSU for Hamilton. A loss to Kenny Payne and Louisville is never good.
-Saint Louis is currently in last place in the A10. That should not happen, and they need to part from Travis Ford. That can be a solid job under a better coach.

Kentucky has more talent on their roster than anyone in college basketball. The only problem with this years' team is most of the players refuse to play any defense whatsoever. Their kenpom D is 102.

[bleedXblue]

Musselman ain't exactly tearing it up at Arkansas this year.

and is a colossal ASS

[bjf123]

Kentucky has more talent on their roster than anyone in college basketball. The only problem with this years' team is most of the players refuse to play any defense whatsoever. Their kenpom D is 102.

Preparing for their NBA career where most people don’t play defense.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[xubrew]

and is a colossal ASS

Believe it or not, once you get to know him, you come to realize that he's an even bigger ass than you thought.

[Xville]

St Marys is on the cusp of being ranked. Who thought that was ever going to happen this year after X played them?

[bleedXblue]

Believe it or not, once you get to know him, you come to realize that he's an even bigger ass than you thought.

he would fit right in at OSU

[GoMuskies]

It's tough being the lone Division I independent. I was just noticing that Chicago State has already played 27 games (presumably having to frontload before everyone else got into conference play), and they'll play three more on the 10th, 14th and 19th and be done. On the plus side, early start on spring break for those guys!

For once, Chicago State actually isn't hilariously awful. They're 11-16 with a win over Northwestern. KenPom ranks them #287, which is about 70 spots higher than they rank most years.

[xubrew]

It's tough being the lone Division I independent. I was just noticing that Chicago State has already played 27 games (presumably having to frontload before everyone else got into conference play), and they'll play three more on the 10th, 14th and 19th and be done. On the plus side, early start on spring break for those guys!

For once, Chicago State actually isn't hilariously awful. They're 11-16 with a win over Northwestern. KenPom ranks them #287, which is about 70 spots higher than they rank most years.

They will be members of the NEC next year!

[GoMuskies]

Big win for K State tonight. Figured KU might be due for a letdown after the big win over Houston.

[Xville]

Big win for K State tonight. Figured KU might be due for a letdown after the big win over Houston.

I think tang will be a candidate for the Louisville job. He’s certainly likable and done well there in limited time.

Btw he’s 11-0 in ot games. That’s an insane record

[xubrew]

There is only one real candidate for the Louisville job!! And that is RICK PITINO!!!

Louisville hiring Rick Pitino is the most on-brand Louisville thing ever!!

Rick Pitino accepting the offer at Louisville is the most on-brand Rick Pitino thing ever!!

THIS WILL HAPPEN!! IT HAS TO!!!!

[Xville]

First three game home losing streak for uk since the 60s. Yikes… the pitchforks are coming for cal

[X-band '01]

That's also bad for X in that Gonzaga is suddenly back in the NCAA Tournament picture. They were all but dead after losing at home to Saint Mary's.

[X-band '01]

Oh, and nice touch of the MAC/Sun Belt Challenge to feature Georgia State/Jonas Hayes beating up on Miami/Travis Steele. Well done for that matchup.

[xubrew]

That's also bad for X in that Gonzaga is suddenly back in the NCAA Tournament picture. They were all but dead after losing at home to Saint Mary's.

You thought Gonzaga was gone. You thought we had gotten rid of them. But, now they're back! And, it's just so annoying!! Is there anything that a team like that could be compared to??

[Xville]

St Mary’s is now #18. I am so confused. How is the team Xavier absolutely obliterated early in the year now ranked? That team looked like a jv high school team early this year

[drudy23]

St Mary’s is now #18. I am so confused. How is the team Xavier absolutely obliterated early in the year now ranked? That team looked like a jv high school team early this year

Stacking wins in a crap conference.

[GoMuskies]

They do seem overrated. Outside of a win at Colorado State, I don't see a lot on their resume.

KenPom says they're #23, though, so what do I know?

[X-band '01]

Winning at Gonzaga helps their cause.

[GoMuskies]

Sure, but until Saturday this year's Gonzaga squad was a name and nothing else.

[X-band '01]

Apparently beating Xavier allowed Creighton to jump 2 spots in the rankings this week despite losing at Providence.

[xubrew]

As hard as this is to believe today, thirty years ago the Atlantic Ten was AWESOME!!!!

https://x.com/TheFieldOf68/status/1757412238791504050?s=20

[xubrew]

Well I sure hope Indiana State enjoyed their time in the Top 25!! I hope to see them back there again in another 45 years!!

[xubrew]

Rumor has it that Chris Holtmann is not having a Happy Valentines Day.

But then again the actual Bishop Valentine had his head cut off on Valentines Day, so it could always be worse.

[chico]

Rumor has it that Chris Holtmann is not having a Happy Valentines Day.

But then again the actual Bishop Valentine had his head cut off on Valentines Day, so it could always be worse.

That 15 million buyout will soften the blow.

[xubrew]

That 15 million buyout will soften the blow.

He'll manage to get by, I'm sure. Coaches aren't fired the way most of the rest of us are. Unlike the rest of us, they keep getting paid. He'll be on the beach and playing golf in a week. It's very possible they told him they were planning to make a change after this year, and his response was 'well...why wait?'

[JTG]

Just in Holtman fired.

[zippin']

Can’t wait to read about SM being nonstop associated with that.

[xubrew]

Can’t wait to read about SM being nonstop associated with that.

This thought has crossed my mind.

[Blue Blooded-05]

Can’t wait to read about SM being nonstop associated with that.

Aaaaand chartered flight watching season is underway!

[murray87]

Yep, Sean's name has already been mentioned on local sports talk. My vote is Huggins to OSU!

[Xville]

I'll just get this out of the way, now...Sean isn't leaving the Big East to go to a Big Ten School where basketball is a distant third priority. It goes

Football Season
Spring Football








Basketball


I'll never say he wouldn't leave but it's not going to be for the Ohio State job.

[STL_XUfan]

I'll just get this out of the way, now...Sean isn't leaving the Big East to go to a Big Ten School where basketball is a distant third priority. It goes

Football Season
Spring Football








Basketball


I'll never say he wouldn't leave but it's not going to be for the Ohio State job.

Been burned to many times to ever think this again. Hope Sean stays, but too jaded to think it isn't a possibility.

[XUBoston]

Been burned to many times to ever think this again. Hope Sean stays, but too jaded to think it isn't a possibility.

Seriously we have been burned far too many times. There already seems to be a lot of HC openings that can throw $ around. Going to be a crazy coaching carousel this offseason

Hiring: OSU, WVU, Louisville, DePaul (lol)

Likely to open: Michigan, Indiana, Washington, Vandy, USC

Maybe opening: Kentucky, Bama (if Oates leaves)

[Xville]

It will be Mcdermott or Paris

[Xville]

Been burned to many times to ever think this again. Hope Sean stays, but too jaded to think it isn't a possibility.

I certainly understand this line of reasoning, but the way he talks about Xavier and the Big East now, its going to take a better job if any for him to leave again imo.

All bets are off if it is the bluest of the blue bloods but I think X is safe otherwise imo.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I have always been a never say never person when it comes to coaches leaving. I was always worried about any X coach, even Mack. However, I feel the best about Miller staying than I have ever felt. Miller did the big time basketball school thing, made tons of money, had a lot of success, and saw the stresses that come along with those jobs.

I find it very difficult to believe he'd leave X again, especially so soon. Not impossible, but I just find it extremely unlikely.

[X-band '01]

It will be Mcdermott or Paris

McDermott was rumored when Matta was fired to go to Columbus, but it was more of a ploy to get a raise out of Creighton.

Given what Creighton has coming back next year, the time might be right for him to make the jump.

[Xville]

South Carolina playing like x tonight. These guys pay attention too much to social
Media today?

[xudash]

I have always been a never say never person when it comes to coaches leaving. I was always worried about any X coach, even Mack. However, I feel the best about Miller staying than I have ever felt. Miller did the big time basketball school thing, made tons of money, had a lot of success, and saw the stresses that come along with those jobs.

I find it very difficult to believe he'd leave X again, especially so soon. Not impossible, but I just find it extremely unlikely.

I couldn’t agree with you more.

[X-band '01]

I would like to congratulate Virginia on getting a win while shooting 9.1% from the free throw line.

That is not a typo.

[GoMuskies]

I would like to congratulate Virginia on getting a win while shooting 9.1% from the free throw line.

That is not a typo.

I had Wake +2.5, so I appreciated the FT misses.

[GIMMFD]

So, UCONN really has a chance to run it back to back huh? No teams I've watched have really stood out to me as dominating, not sure about anybody else, but think UCONN has a good chance. If I were to put a bet on it, I'd say either UCONN or Kansas will be cutting down the nets, which I hate both of those options personally.

[X-band '01]

Fight Night Between Texas A&M-Commerce and Incarnate Word (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/39561066/incarnate-word-commerce-players-get-big-brawl-postgame-handshake)

Considering that a fan got punched in the stands and a manager got hit with a punch, there are going to be massive suspensions handed out for this one.

[xubrew]

Fight Night Between Texas A&M-Commerce and Incarnate Word (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/39561066/incarnate-word-commerce-players-get-big-brawl-postgame-handshake)

Considering that a fan got punched in the stands and a manager got hit with a punch, there are going to be massive suspensions handed out for this one.

Why weren't players made available to the media after this happened??

(**I know. I shouldn't have said this**)

[X-band '01]

Then again, half the population in Texas probably believes this was a brawl between a pair of D-2 teams.

[Section 200]

Why weren't players made available to the media after this happened??

(**I know. I shouldn't have said this**)

A+ comment

[kane79]

Fight Night Between Texas A&M-Commerce and Incarnate Word (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/39561066/incarnate-word-commerce-players-get-big-brawl-postgame-handshake)

Considering that a fan got punched in the stands and a manager got hit with a punch, there are going to be massive suspensions handed out for this one.

and mandatory reflection sessions?

[UCGRAD4X]

Then again, half the population in Texas probably believes this was a brawl between a pair of D-2 teams.

That is, if any cares about basketball in Tejas.

They were probably hoping a football game would break out.