Game Thread: Xavier v Villanova (1/3/2024)

[paulxu]

https://i5.walmartimages.com/asr/2a1f45a0-e1cc-4202-89d7-1b7b5c27f309_1.3c18d8e111cdcd7e8a271effb6000907.jp eg?odnHeight=612&odnWidth=612&odnBg=FFFFFFVS.https://shop.villanova.com/cdn/shop/products/VILLNV005800---FRONT_650x.jpg?v=1661788808


VILLANOVA, PA. --- The Xavier University Musketeers, 7-6 overall and 1-1 in the BIG EAST Conference, visit the Villanova University Wildcats, 9-4 overall and 2-0 in the BIG EAST, on Wednesday night. Both teams have been off since Dec. 23.

Xavier is coming off a 74-54 win over Seton Hall on Dec. 23, while Villanova is one of two teams that are 2-0 to start BIG EAST play. Xavier recorded an 88-80 win at Villanova last season.

THE MATCHUP

XAVIER UNIVERSITY MUSKETEERS (7-6, 1-1 BIG EAST)
VILLANOVA UNIVERSITY WILDCATS (9-4, 2-0 BIG EAST)
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024 AT 8:30 P.M. ET
AT FINNERAN PAVILION IN VILLANOVA, PA.

TV, RADIO AND LIVE STATS

Television: FS1 with play-by-play from Tim Brando and analysis from Bill Raftery.
Xavier Radio: 700 WLW AM with play-by-play from Xavier Hall of Famer Joe Sunderman ('79) and analysis from XU all-time leading scorer and Hall of Famer Byron Larkin ('88). XU broadcast is also on the Varsity Network and on SXM.

Live Stats: Media stats at Statbroadcast.com (http://Statbroadcast.com) and fan stats at GoXavier.com (http://GoXavier.com)

[drudy23]

Win please.

[drudy23]

This also feels like the off-season - can we play a damn game again?

[GoMuskies]

Looks to me like we'll be about 8 point dogs based on KenPom. Know tomorrow.

[Xville]

Looks like x opened at +6.5 on dk. 138.5 o/u

That under is enticing, but I hate betting unders lol

Is Moore playing? I know he’s been hurt, again.

[GoMuskies]

Up to 8.5 @ BetMGM. 139.5

[Xville]

Up to 8.5 @ BetMGM. 139.5

Thanks! Went ahead and grabbed that this morning. I think that line is probably about right so it’s certainly more heart than head :)

[Xavier]

I’m not saying this is a great opportunity. But it’s a good one. Until X can pull off a win it’s not suppose to, the season remains a long shot for the tournament. Nova is a tail of two teams, they can be had. Once we get the first unexpected win, momentum can turn for X.

[Xville]

January is a brutal month schedule wise. If x can just hold on this month and go 4-4 or 5-3, then February/March could be a great payoff.

[drudy23]

Nova is good, but they're not what they were.

No way we should get run out of the building tonight. 10 days off to prepare and get better - we may lose, but there are no excuses for a piss poor showing.

[Xville]

Some good news for x, Moore is still out tonight

[GIMMFD]

Nova is good, but they're not what they were.

No way we should get run out of the building tonight. 10 days off to prepare and get better - we may lose, but there are no excuses for a piss poor showing.

No excuses, but I DO NOT trust this team on the road at all, Villanova is definitely vulnerable, they've had some amazing wins, but some head scratching losses (though I guess that's the pot calling the kettle black), I'd love to see us shoot it like we did against Seton Hall, I'm not expecting 50% from deep every game, but god the offense opens up so much more when we can actually hit shots. Going to take a good effort tonight to get it done, but definitely think it's possible.

[X-band '01]

All their head scratchers came in the Big 5.

[noteggs]

Hopefully they let both teams play underneath like Providence and Hall game going on now. Thinking about Abou vs Dixon…

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

No excuses, but I DO NOT trust this team on the road at all, Villanova is definitely vulnerable, they've had some amazing wins, but some head scratching losses (though I guess that's the pot calling the kettle black), I'd love to see us shoot it like we did against Seton Hall, I'm not expecting 50% from deep every game, but god the offense opens up so much more when we can actually hit shots. Going to take a good effort tonight to get it done, but definitely think it's possible.

I think tonight is going to rise or fall on the frontcourt. Abou played, in my opinion, his best all round game against Seton Hall. We not only need a repeat of that effort, but the Euros must show up----particularly Djokovic. He has yet to show a pulse, but he was, at season beginning, thought to be one of our best players. Without a better showing up front, I think, we are toast.

[MHettel]

kind of a must win in my opinion. not just to get a win, but to show that this team has improved and is capable of getting some tough roads wins in conference.

Long layoff around the holidays, and coming off a nice win. Hopefully that manifests as confidence and each guy steps up a little. We need a couple guys (unnamed for now) to get going NOW.

[paulxu]

Play Ball ❗️

[Xavier]

According to KenPom it’s the fourth hardest remaining game on our schedule. A little surprised at the respect of Cintas Vs big 3

[Xville]

According to KenPom it’s the fourth hardest remaining game on our schedule. A little surprised at the respect of Cintas Vs big 3

Creighton nor Marquette should scare x at Cintas imo. Guard oriented that rely on a good shooting day. X can beat them. UConn, is a different story.

[Xville]

Could be 0 big East undefeated teams in about two hours

[noteggs]

Not sure I like Nemo starting?

[bjf123]

Not a fan of Quincy’s ponytails.


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[KabeX]

and just like that.

[Xville]

Swain needs to be a bit more aggressive in taking his shot. He’s been open at least twice now for a lane to the rim.

[GoMuskies]

No more Ciani tonight, please.

[noteggs]

Ciani needs to not have all his shots blocked

[Xville]

Trey’s shot is so smooth. Keep shooting young fella

[GoMuskies]

Ugly stretch

[Xuperman]

If Des continues to add to his shooting rep and ends up being a non factor tonight....there is some room for adjustment with this roster.

[Blue Blooded-05]

Second chance points killing us

[KabeX]

Just like I tell my 5th graders - you gotta box out boys. That's at least 3 gifts to Nova. Christmas is over!

[Three Point Pete]

No more Ciani tonight, please.It sure feels like they throw out the anchor when Cuani hits the court

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[Xville]

Stop leaving the fucking 3 point shooter… gawd damn guys

[GoMuskies]

I thought our no Euro plan from Seton Hall was effective and was the new plan. But it's more Euro than ever so far tonight.

[drudy23]

Ciani - for the love of....

[noteggs]

Where have I’ve seen the Nova 3 brigade before?

[Xuperman]

Second chance points killing us

Yeah....not just tonight.

It has to even up some or this season will be uncomfortable.

[GoMuskies]

Ciani - for the love of....

Let's try Nzeh instead next time Ousmane needs a break.

[KabeX]

Jezus these layups

[bjf123]

I see we’re back to missing bunnies in a big way.


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[Three Point Pete]

Missing too many layups What up?

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[GoMuskies]

Where have I’ve seen the Nova 3 brigade before?

They're not even shooting well.

[Xville]

Keep shooting Trey. Half court is your range

[drudy23]

Nova has shot 18 3s already.

More Trey Green please.

[GoMuskies]

Green keeping us in it, though. Need Olivari to get hot. Or Claude maybe?

[X-band '01]

One guy for Nova is 3-4 behind the arc; everyone else is 2-13. Did they also not get the memo that Xavier could be pounded in the lane?

[drudy23]

Green keeping us in it, though. Need Olivari to get hot. Or Claude maybe?

Claude's not getting hot unless he starts getting to the rim.

He hasn't been close on 5 jumpshots.

[noteggs]

They're not even shooting well.

True but 18 so far

[GoMuskies]

Does Ciani have incriminating pictures of Sean?

[drudy23]

Nova kinda sucks.

[GoMuskies]

Ciani with a nice tip in. I apologize for doubting you big guy!

[GoMuskies]

Nova kinda sucks.

They don't suck quite badly enough.

[KabeX]

What year did the NBA continuation rule come to college hoops?

[Xuperman]

Green keeping us in it, though. Need Olivari to get hot. Or Claude maybe?

Claude? There is no indication that his season shooting numbers are going to improve anytime soon.

[GoMuskies]

That was Travis Steele bad.

[Xville]

I know he’s x’s best scorer but olivari is playing like complete shit so far tonight and that was a bad shot

[KabeX]

Alright I'm about fed up with this lack of fundamental f'in boxing out.

[Blue Blooded-05]

Just your average 5-point offensive possession for nova

[drudy23]

Ousman isn't awesome, but he might have to play 35 minutes.

[X-band '01]

Nice and-1 by Stainbrook to cut the deficit to 5.

And yes, Ousmane now wearing #40 after his jersey got torn.

[Xville]

Ousman isn't awesome, but he might have to play 35 minutes.

True. Wish one of the euros was more developed at this point. Ciani will be good I think in a year or two but yikes right now

[GoMuskies]

Not an inspiring half.

[Three Point Pete]

Cash in guys! Nope!

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[KabeX]

And another thing that drives me up a wall - why do we wait until the clock hits 6 sec to start the offense. You could see it coming.

[Xuperman]

I know he’s x’s best scorer but olivari is playing like complete shit so far tonight and that was a bad shot

Let's compare his box score to Des after this one. The word "shit" may come into play.

[Xville]

That was a fugly half but only down 5. Game is right there for the taking.

[KabeX]

And another thing that drives me up a wall - why do we wait until the clock hits 6 sec to start the offense. You could see it coming.
And while I'm at it - GET OFF MY LAWN!

[Xville]

Let's compare his box score to Des after this one. The word "shit" may come into play.

We get it, you don’t like des. Move on.

Btw there is an entire other side of the court

[drudy23]

Another highly winnable game. Win and we sit in first place with some others.

Gut check time.

[Xuperman]

We get it, you don’t like des. Move on

WTF are you talking about Shady? We are only 3 games in conference. When is he going to rise to the hype?

When he does....things get much better than a 7-6 record.

[X-band '01]

We get it, you don’t like des. Move on.

Btw there is an entire other side of the court

Careful now, we don't need a KyKy Tandy rant from Xuperman.

Or better yet, a Paul McMillan rant.

[X-band '01]

That was a fugly half but only down 5. Game is right there for the taking.

To be fair, they'll be down 10-15 after the first 4 minutes of the 2nd half. If it's within single digits, then I'd feel better.

[Xville]

Careful now, we don't need a KyKy Tandy rant from Xuperman.

Or better yet, a Paul McMillan rant.

lol I forgot about the Paul McMillan love affair

[xuwillie]

To be fair, they'll be down 10-15 after the first 4 minutes of the 2nd half. If it's within single digits, then I'd feel better.

Yep can’t be down five on the road when you have a history of sucking ass to start the second half.

[noteggs]

At the beginning, they showed highlights of last. Forgot how good free was…on offense.

I know play who have

[Xville]

To be fair, they'll be down 10-15 after the first 4 minutes of the 2nd half. If it's within single digits, then I'd feel better.

Ha very fair!

[xuwillie]

Claude has to play better in the big east if x has any chance to win games on the road. He’s the only guy on the roster with any big east experience

[noteggs]

Careful now, we don't need a KyKy Tandy rant from Xuperman.

Or better yet, a Paul McMillan rant.

I don’t care who you are…that IS funny!

[xukeith]

On paper VU should win this game by 12-15 points.

They are not so great without Moore and that opens up an opportunity for X.

[Xuperman]

Careful now, we don't need a KyKy Tandy rant from Xuperman.

Or better yet, a Paul McMillan rant.

Tandy, Wilcher, Odom????

Who the F knows.

[GoMuskies]

To be fair, they'll be down 10-15 after the first 4 minutes of the 2nd half. If it's within single digits, then I'd feel better.

God dammit Band

[GoMuskies]

Tandy, Wilcher, Odom????

Who the F knows.

You think they're close comparisons to McMillan?

[KabeX]

Finally! A LAY UP!

[drudy23]

Maybe Samari Curtis will change his mind again.

[GoMuskies]

Double the Euro. Uh oh

[Xville]

Only lost the first 4 minute war by 2. I call that a win lol

[Xuperman]

You think they're close comparisons to McMillan?

McMillan was a T100 prospect with strong Cincinnati ties, from a fantastic family, is now a Woodward HS legend and scorched the summer leagues.

GTFO

[GoMuskies]

And his best offer was NJIT. And he's had much less college success than the others.

[Xville]

Danger time

I thank you O

[GoMuskies]

Djokovic may be good someday, but what does he add today? Why does he get minutes?

[paulxu]

If both teams shoot the same number of shots, and the other guys make more threes...you're going to lose.

[X-band '01]

And his best offer was NJIT. And he's had much less college success than the others.

And even then transferred out of NJIT to go to...Central Michigan. Apparently even Travis Steele isn't desperate enough for his services.

[GoMuskies]

Euros continue to kill us.

[X-band '01]

Also guessing we won't be seeing the lineup of the 3 C-USA guys, Green and Swain. Must not be a good matchup against Nova.

[bjf123]

If both teams shoot the same number of shots, and the other guys make more threes...you're going to lose.

We’ve taken 1 more shot, they’ve taken 12 more threes.

[Xville]

Djokovic may be good someday, but what does he add today? Why does he get minutes?

I think because right now there isn’t much else. He’s got the biggest upside of the euros imo so might as well throw him to the fire this year. Gytis is who I’m disappointed with the most. Guy has a ton of experience and is just a guy.

[Xuperman]

And his best offer was NJIT. And he's had much less college success than the others.

Chicks and blunts.

[GoMuskies]

I think because right now there isn’t much else.

I'd rather Swain get a lot of those minutes.

[drudy23]

Chicks and blunts.

Don't those things make you play better?

[GoMuskies]

Also guessing we won't be seeing the lineup of the 3 C-USA guys, Green and Swain. Must not be a good matchup against Nova.

I wish we would. Best basketball all year was with that lineup.

[drudy23]

I thought we were slimming the rotation? Seems like a free for all.

[drudy23]

This feels like the Purdue game, but they're not Purdue.

[Xville]

I'd rather Swain get a lot of those minutes.

I’m not sure what swain is really doing either at this point. High ceiling but I don’t think either of them give us much right now

[Xville]

Come on! Time for a run

[Xuperman]

This feels too "home court advantage".

A barrage of X 3's is imperative.

[GoMuskies]

Maybe we can cover.

[Xavier]

I’m not sure what swain is really doing either at this point. High ceiling but I don’t think either of them give us much right now

Agreed. Like his future, good length and has caused some turnovers. But just timid on offense and wish he’d attack boards more. Winning in the big East is tough when you have soft bigs.

[xukeith]

I'd rather Swain get a lot of those minutes.

Love Swain too but he is all defense with his length. Excellent in transition. Can he shoot? yikes not well.

[GoMuskies]

Love Swain too but he is all defense with his length. Excellent in transition. Can he shoot? yikes not well.

He doesn't have to be particularly good. Just better than Djokovic.

[Xville]

Hell yeah! Dayvion is having a great game!

[GoMuskies]

Hanging around....

[Xuperman]

Don't those things make you play better?

I was All County in multiple sports....those things destroyed my young sports aspirations... BUT I wouldn't change a thing!!

[noteggs]

I really really like Swain’s game!

[Xville]

A nzeh sighting

[GoMuskies]

Sean took my advice on Nzeh!

[X-band '01]

I thought we were slimming the rotation? Seems like a free for all.

Not if there's a Kachi Nzeh sighting.

[Xville]

Hanging around. Is x tough enough at this point to win on the road in conference?

[GoMuskies]

Had the ball down 4. Man.

[Xavier]

Think he’s just trying to find an answer for rebounding. Someone to give energy and grab some.

[Xuperman]

This game feels uninspired.....it feels like a team chemistry issue.

[xukeith]

Think he’s just trying to find an answer for rebounding. Someone to give energy and grab some.

Agree. Nzeh is big, and stronger than all 3 Euros.

[KabeX]

In range under at the under 8. Let's see how we finish. If nothing else putting Nzeh in both sends a message and hopefully creates some energy.

[GoMuskies]

No Euros! Here we go!!

[Xville]

Bad bad bad call

[Xville]

Another bad call. Come on

[GoMuskies]

And that's the side of the court Claude is supposed to be good on.

[KabeX]

Jezus that was weak. Can't get that close tho. Great time to give up a 4 pt play

[Blue Blooded-05]

That 4 point play was killer

[Xville]

Solid minutes from swain!

[KabeX]

And now we start jacking em up. Good way to lose.

[Xville]

Swain take your man. It’s lance freaking ware

[KabeX]

Swain take your man. It’s lance freaking ware
This.

[GoMuskies]

Also guessing we won't be seeing the lineup of the 3 C-USA guys, Green and Swain. Must not be a good matchup against Nova.

Here it is. Lasted half a possession. Lol

[X-band '01]

I told you one of the Euros would spark a run!

[xukeith]

I told you one of the Euros would spark a run!

Maybe they learned from Ousmane

[X-band '01]

Here it is. Lasted half a possession. Lol

And it's a good thing they couldn't go to replay there. A TO there would have been killer

[Blue Blooded-05]

Keep getting it down to 4 before they go on a mini run. Big stop here

[GoMuskies]

4 point play and 5 point possession seem pretty big right now.

[Xville]

Alright boys. Game is right there! Toughen up! Regardless, I know nova isn’t great, but this is a damn tough place to play and proud of the team for hanging in there

[Xville]

Rebound!!!!

[drudy23]

You don't start winning these games until you figure out how to win these games.

Let's figure it out.

[Xville]

Swain come on

[KabeX]

Swain must shoot

[X-band '01]

Guessing that shot by Olivari won't be on the annual highlight video.

[GoMuskies]

Claude taking over?!?

[Xville]

Fuck yeah Claude! Come on!

[X-band '01]

But Claude's shot will.

[KabeX]

You don't start winning these games until you figure out how to win these games.

Let's figure it out.
Now that's some damn good strategy there.

[xukeith]

Claude!! Woo Hoo!

[GoMuskies]

Got to get that rebound. Fuck

[Xuperman]

The FT was critical.

[KabeX]

Whew, looked like Quincy traveled there

[GoMuskies]

Quincy shoots clutch FTs like Tu.

[Xville]

Alright one big stop here… grab the damn rebound

[KabeX]

Now f'in box out and get the f'in rebound!

[Blue Blooded-05]

Quincy shoots clutch FTs like Tu.

But Tu never rocked the Princess Leia side buns

[Xuperman]

Q looks like silk southern savvy!!!

[X-band '01]

Everyone will be rocking that if Xavier steals this one.

[GoMuskies]

Everyone will be rocking that if Xavier steals this one.

I don't know. Not his best game.

[X-band '01]

1 TO wasn't enough for Nova there.

[GoMuskies]

Get a darnn board.

[Blue Blooded-05]

X ball!

[Xville]

That’s x ball. Come on

[KabeX]

Think that's our ball

[GoMuskies]

No way they reverse.

[KabeX]

Well on second look..

[bjf123]

No way they reverse.

Agreed.


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[KabeX]

We're gonna need to foul and make a 3 to force OT. I'm sayin there's a chance.

[GoMuskies]

Love being wrong!

[X-band '01]

They did reverse it.

[bjf123]

Agreed.


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And I’m wrong.


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[xukeith]

Huge and CORRECT call! Lets steal this!

[KabeX]

Wow

[Xville]

Please start the play before 5 seconds are left

[GoMuskies]

No Euro lineup for the win here!

[Xuperman]

Everyone will be rocking that if Xavier steals this one.

Claude??

[Blue Blooded-05]

We need this. This could be a huge turning point for the season

[GoMuskies]

Want Claude shooting.

[Xville]

Fuuuck

[xukeith]

Claude makes that 9/10 times. grrr

[Blue Blooded-05]

Jfc

[Xuperman]

Claude??

No.

[GoMuskies]

Want Claude shooting.

Ugh, not as fun being wrong that time.

[bjf123]

How the fuck do you miss that bunny!


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[X-band '01]

That shot didn't work out. Now Ousmane's out if this game gets extended.

[Xavier]

A layup. Dang

[GoMuskies]

Didn't love that.

[GoMuskies]

Let's get a steal. Please.

[X-band '01]

I would definitely not let Dixon get to the line here.

[Xavier]

Yeah gotta look for a 3. At least nova out of time outs?

[Xville]

Everything right except the ball just didn’t go in ugh. Ok still got a shot. Dang

[Blue Blooded-05]

Damned if you do damned if you don’t... but I would have preferred McKnight take the open 3 in that situation even though he’s not our best shooter

[GoMuskies]

How does Dixon get that open?

[Xville]

Why would we face guard there? That made zero sense to me

[X-band '01]

Dixon finally misses one at least.

[GoMuskies]

Just hit a three and win. I

[Xville]

Ugh!!!!!! Damn it

[GoMuskies]

Claude is going to lose confidence after that.

[bjf123]

Gotta make that, Des.


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[Xville]

Thought that was in. Damn it. Nova tried to give us that one.

Nova isn’t that great, but I’m hoping even in a loss the team grows up a bit from this. Played probably our c+ ish game and it was right there.

Gotta win one of the next two, then the schedule opens up a bit

[Xavier]

He had two freaking chances man. That sucked

[X-band '01]

That first miss was the tougher one. Live and learn.

[Blue Blooded-05]

What could have been a major turning point in the season ends with a .500 record and Claude’s confidence at an all time low. Damn

[drudy23]

Des has to be better for this team. Otherwise, give it to Quincy to close.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Claude is going to lose confidence after that.

Yeah, he was pretty horrid tonight.

I'm a Claude fan and he is only a soph but he has a lot of improving to do. I think I was a little higher on him this year than I should have been, he really has no jump shot at this point. Big area of improvement that will probably be worked on in the summer and not improve much this year unfortunately.

[KabeX]

Well for my 2500 th post I wanted to extol how we hung in there and stole one. But screw that - we did hang in there and should have stole that one. Lessons abound. I'll trade this for some other road Ws. Now make it happen. Still disappointed as fu$K.

[Xavier]

Man. McKnight missed, then two misses from Claude. All great looks.

[drudy23]

Moral victories don't mean much anymore.

It was there on a silver platter and we couldn't figure it out.

As I said, you don't figure it out unless you figure it out. Another wasted opportunity that was right there for the taking.

Continuing to lose close ones normally leads to losing more close ones.

[Xuperman]

Des Claude is in "head case" territory.

THis is not unusual.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Des has to be better for this team. Otherwise, give it to Quincy to close.

Yeah McKnight or Olivari would have been my preference to take the final shot but tough there with such little time after a missed FT.

[noteggs]

A lot of what if’s on last shot. Still think we are a better team vs November/December. Obviously, Des had a rough night.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Moral victories don't mean much anymore.

It was there on a silver platter and we couldn't figure it out.

As I said, you don't figure it out unless you figure it out. Another wasted opportunity that was right there for the taking.

Continuing to lose close ones normally leads to losing more close ones.

Yeah this team is headed nowhere fast this year. Still think we can pick up some good wins but we will continue to lose to other mediocre teams and probably some bad ones.

I was glad to see Swain play more in the 2nd half. I think getting him and Green as much PT in different situations as possible to help their development is huge. I know Ciani and Lazar are frosh too but I think Swain and Green have the most upside.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Sh$t!

[xuwillie]

A lot of what if’s on last shot. Still think we are a better team vs November/December. Obviously, Des had a rough night.

Dez has had 2 shitty games in a row. Oh well not losing sleep over this team this year. Maybe next but year will be better but miller will need to make a lot of changes

[drudy23]

How do we not get more Green and Quincy on the floor at the same time? They are literally our only consistent threat from the perimeter.

Open it up a bit for Des?

Des is starting to become like Jason Carter, Quentin Gooden and Dwon Odom. Zero defense needed on the perimeter.

Does Des need to take the Jerome Hunter approach and re-evaluate his strengths? Take the Stanley Burrell pill and become the best defender in the league?

He's just not a threat unless he's getting to the rim. Turn into Derrick Brown and call it a day.

[GoMuskies]

Dez has had 2 shitty games in a row. Oh well not losing sleep over this team this year. Maybe next but year will be better but miller will need to make a lot of changes

Freemantle and Hunter taking all the Gytis and Ciani minutes would be a positive change. Shooting will be needed.

[Xville]

Yeah this team is headed nowhere fast this year. Still think we can pick up some good wins but we will continue to lose to other mediocre teams and probably some bad ones.

I was glad to see Swain play more in the 2nd half. I think getting him and Green as much PT in different situations as possible to help their development is huge. I know Ciani and Lazar are frosh too but I think Swain and Green have the most upside.

I disagree. I think losing to mediocre or bad teams is over. I see growth happening and think if they can just tread some water the next 6 games, that they can then go on a run. Not saying it will be enough for the tourney, but I see a 19-12 or 18-13 before conference tourney time in play.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I disagree. I think losing to mediocre or bad teams is over. I see growth happening and think if they can just tread some water the next 6 games, that they can then go on a run. Not saying it will be enough for the tourney, but I see a 19-12 or 18-13 before conference tourney time in play.

When it comes to Xavier basketball, in my group of Xavier fan friends, I am the eternal optimist. But a 7-7 hole is a deep one to climb out of and I don't see this team going better than 10-10 in the Big East. If we didn't drop the 2 buy games I'd have way more hope.

Nova isn't all that great (especially without Moore) and we just couldn't get it done. Too hard to win on the road not to take advantage and win a game like that.

[drudy23]

I disagree. I think losing to mediocre or bad teams is over. I see growth happening and think if they can just tread some water the next 6 games, that they can then go on a run. Not saying it will be enough for the tourney, but I see a 19-12 or 18-13 before conference tourney time in play.

I'd venture to guess this team is losing at DePaul or at Georgetown. We're not to the point yet where ANYTHING is guaranteed.

Bottom line, we simply don't have enough talent right now.

Villanova was very mediocre tonight.

[Xville]

When it comes to Xavier basketball, in my group of Xavier fan friends, I am the eternal optimist. But a 7-7 hole is a deep one to climb out of and I don't see this team going better than 10-10 in the Big East. If we didn't drop the 2 buy games I'd have way more hope.

Nova isn't all that great (especially without Moore) and we just couldn't get it done. Too hard to win on the road not to take advantage and win a game like that.

Nova is ok, not great but they have beaten Memphis, unc, and at creighton. They are a solid team and probably will be in the tourney.

Anyways, I didn’t expect x to come in and win at nova. Sure would have been nice to steal one though. If x can get to 10-10, I see a run from then on. We shall see what happens

[GoMuskies]

If x can get to 10-10, I see a run from then on.

Huh? In the CBI?

Oh, you meant 10-10 overall. Maybe, but it won't matter much at that point.

[MHettel]

The book is out on Claude. The one thing he can (usually) do is finish at the rim. And he keeps getting goaded into deep and mid-range jumpers.

In BE play he is 11-35 from the field, including 1-6 from 3.

The weird thing is that everyone was kindo of OK with Odom leaving due to his lack of shooting, and yet Claude is pretty dang similar at this point.

[GoMuskies]

Claude just needs to shoot less. He can be an asset as a facilitator and a lower volume slasher. He can't be one of our top FG attempt guys at this point.

35 in 3 games is close to 12 shots per game. Cut that in half.

[drudy23]

The book is out on Claude. The one thing he can (usually) do is finish at the rim. And he keeps getting goaded into deep and mid-range jumpers.

In BE play he is 11-35 from the field, including 1-6 from 3.

The weird thing is that everyone was kindo of OK with Odom leaving due to his lack of shooting, and yet Claude is pretty dang similar at this point.

Sure is.

I got blasted for this 2 weeks ago, but where's all of this improvement we've been promised?

Just because his numbers are higher doesn't mean he's improving. Seems to be a bit better 8 feet in, and worse as a shooter. Pretty similar player (you could argue worse) to last year when you look at skill development.

[xukeith]

Next 3 games vs UConn, Providence , and Butler, X has to get 2 wins.

[OTRMUSKIE]

Maybe this was mentioned but when Miller took out all the Euros this team played better. I hope that was the light switch for Miller. Let the Euros relieve players but I want to see the lineup with no Euros and see what can happen. The Euros just aren’t ready yet.

[X Factor]

Sure is.

I got blasted for this 2 weeks ago, but where's all of this improvement we've been promised?

Just because his numbers are higher doesn't mean he's improving. Seems to be a bit better 8 feet in, and worse as a shooter. Pretty similar player (you could argue worse) to last year when you look at skill development.

I totally agree. Like Des a lot, but he needs to start playing like the player we all heard about over the summer.

[Xville]

Claude just needs to shoot less. He can be an asset as a facilitator and a lower volume slasher. He can't be one of our top FG attempt guys at this point.

35 in 3 games is close to 12 shots per game. Cut that in half.

I don't know if that is the answer or not, but if he were to do that, than others need to have some balls and step up. Claude, for most of the game seemed to be the only one willing to drive thru the lane and try to get his shot off. For example, With about a minute left, mcknight had ten feet of open space between him and the basket and decides to shoot from the elbow. Swain could have taken Lance freaking Ware about three times last night and gave the ball up. Someone needs to step up and relieve some pressure. It didn't help that Olivari had an off game as well.

I think this team is certainly better than it was in November/December. They only had 8 turnovers, have been playing some good defense for the most part (whikle acknowledging rebounding is a consistent issue), but the lack of a consistent frontcourt player other than Ousmane is hurting.

[Masterofreality]

The book is out on Claude. The one thing he can (usually) do is finish at the rim. And he keeps getting goaded into deep and mid-range jumpers.

In BE play he is 11-35 from the field, including 1-6 from 3.

The weird thing is that everyone was kindo of OK with Odom leaving due to his lack of shooting, and yet Claude is pretty dang similar at this point.


Claude just needs to shoot less. He can be an asset as a facilitator and a lower volume slasher. He can't be one of our top FG attempt guys at this point.

35 in 3 games is close to 12 shots per game. Cut that in half.

And the book is out on Q too. Nova was shadowing him with 2 guys last night and laying off Claude. Result?
Claude took 17 shots- more, by 4, than anyone else on the team. He made 5. He cannot shoot and every team knows it. Quincy took 4 less shots and still out scored Claude by 3- because he gets to the line!
Dailyn Swain needs to be ordered to shoot. It can’t be any worse than what Des gives and Swain plays great D. Nova didn’t score a field goal in the last 6 minutes. Guess who was on the floor almost that whole time? Dailyn Swain.
More D Swain, less D Claude.

[Xville]

Swain/Claude is not an either/or proposition in my mind. I'd like to see Swain play the four with Claude alongside him. I think Djokovic is going to be good, and Ciani will be serviceable, but right now I want to see more Swain/Green.

Claude/Swain/Mcknight are all very good defenders and Olivari is a serviceable one as well. I'm tired of seeing the Euros get pushed around like they are the JV playing the V. Man up ffs.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Gytis has been pretty bad lately. He is playing a lot less minutes than he was but maybe Swain could steal a few mins from him as well?

I couldn't understand Swain barely playing first half and thought he played pretty well defensively in the 2nd half.

[Tim]

MOR gets it. It sickens me to conclude this but Claude is looking like Goodin. Great freshman year with upside who regresses. We all overestimated what we had but some of us still have blinders on. I truly hope I'm wrong but he's been underwhelming to put it mildly ALL season and is costing us games with his large role and horribly timed miscues.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

More D Swain, less D Claude.

Not sure if that is the answer but agree with GO that Claude needs to shoot less and shoot closer to the basket. He just has to play to his strengths and work on his shooting in the summer. Do agree that Swain needs to be more assertive on offense.

Still, here's the deal for me. We aren't competitive up-front. We just aren't. Abou, if he plays to his highest level seen so far, still has a lower ceiling than we all thought last fall. And I haven't seen any improvement in the play of any of the Euros. I keep hoping, expecting, etc. but they just haven't been able to contribute more. Maybe (I hope) they will blossom soon but thus far, they all have looked pretty average. Sasa got thrown aside, early in the game last night, like a rag doll. Lazar and Gytis, at times, just seem lost. Non-factors.

We have some pretty good guard play, most of the time. But our frontcourt is mediocre and I'm not seeing improvement. I don't know how this team gets better without better play from the Euros.

[muskieindent]

We did everything well last night but shoot the ball.I know Dez is the easy target but no one shot well including Quincy. He had some wide open looks that he typically makes . Our front court is just not good enough I thought the Euros would be better.We can't even get 10 points a game out of those 3. Abou is ok. Now we get another week off.This schedule is screwy

[A Fan]

Villanova looked mediocre. Most of the Big teams would have beat them last night. Without a front court we have to have better perimeter shooting to win. I still can’t figure out why Sean was so high on Claude over the summer other than to boost his confidence. But that failed. Claude can’t handle the pressure. Until he can, he can’t be our go- to shooter. No front court+ no leadership,= mediocrity .

[paulxu]

Got to make the layups. Couple of those fall and it's a W.

[drudy23]

Villanova looked mediocre. Most of the Big teams would have beat them last night. Without a front court we have to have better perimeter shooting to win. I still can’t figure out why Sean was so high on Claude over the summer other than to boost his confidence. But that failed. Claude can’t handle the pressure. Until he can, he can’t be our go- to shooter. No front court+ no leadership,= mediocrity .

Claude is a fantastic piece on a good team. His role elevated when Free and Jerome went out. Let's be honest, if Free was healthy, the inside-out combo of him and Quincy would be great. And Des would be free to do what he does best.

Coaches know Des is a very good player, but they also know he can't shoot. And they're taking advantage of it. They know most of our other guys aren't going to beat them on any given night. It's not a surprise that production for certain guys go down when Big East play starts. These opposing coaches are excellent.

Not sure Des' woes are healed until we get to a better spot with talent.

[Xville]

Claude is a fantastic piece on a good team. His role elevated when Free and Jerome went out. Let's be honest, if Free was healthy, the inside-out combo of him and Quincy would be great. And Des would be free to do what he does best.

Coaches know Des is a very good player, but they also know he can't shoot. And they're taking advantage of it. They know most of our other guys aren't going to beat them on any given night. It's not a surprise that production for certain guys go down when Big East play starts. These opposing coaches are excellent.

Not sure Des' woes are healed until we get to a better spot with talent.

Good points. The loss of Free/Jerome is killing this team because all X has is Ousmane and he's fine and would probably be better if he had any help. However, there is zero outside of him. The frontcourt is causing issues for everyone else and putting too much pressure on the guards every game. People really need to give Des a freaking break. The kid is a sophomore who was a role player last year. i guess next year people are going to be expecting Swain to be dropping 20 per game next year and shooting 40 % from 3.

If people wanna bitch, I get it, but the guards aren't the problem.

[drudy23]

Good points. The loss of Free/Jerome is killing this team because all X has is Ousmane and he's fine and would probably be better if he had any help. However, there is zero outside of him. The frontcourt is causing issues for everyone else and putting too much pressure on the guards every game. People really need to give Des a freaking break. The kid is a sophomore who was a role player last year.

If people wanna bitch, I get it, but the guards aren't the problem.

And I'll add to this, Quincy can't be expected to get 25 every night too.

He's going to have bad shooting nights, everyone does. Even on an off night, Quincy still led us in scoring, had 8 rebounds, 3 steals and zero turnovers.

[drudy23]

I also think everyone knows Des is a better shooter than he's shown. Is he great? No. But he's not this bad.

But he's capable of shooting 35% from 3 (he's at 22% currently).

Confidence is a powerful thing.

[xukeith]

Vilanova wasn't quite 90%. I d put them at 70% strong last night.
I was pleased with X's defense and toughness to scrape, play with full court pressure and traps.

McKnight had a good game. Ousmane had a solid game. Low turnovers and beating Nova on boards helped X a ton.

I am happy how they defended vs Dixon.
Nova got many calls but it is to be expected at Philly.

[Three Point Pete]

Bottom line: just had to hit ONE of the several missed layups. Very frustrating.

Sent from my SM-A326U using Tapatalk

[D-West & PO-Z]

There is a middle ground to Des is going to be All Big East and he has regressed from his freshman year.

The leap some of us were expecting with all new faces around him was probably unrealistic but he has made improvements and just needs to get confidence in his shot back. He isn't a great shooter by any stretch but he's better than he has been. He had to take on a lot very quickly and it may be overwhelming for him to an extent.

[MHettel]

Anyone else wondering if Dez should have just taken it to the rack against Dixon at the end, instead of pulling up? Time was tight, but his game is to get to the rack and Dixon was on his heels. I really like the idea of going for the finish and settle for a foul if possible. Easy to second guess, but Dez hadnt hit a jumper all game...

[D-West & PO-Z]

Anyone else wondering if Dez should have just taken it to the rack against Dixon at the end, instead of pulling up? Time was tight, but his game is to get to the rack and Dixon was on his heels. I really like the idea of going for the finish and settle for a foul if possible. Easy to second guess, but Dez hadnt hit a jumper all game...

Didn't have the time. I thought he had gone too far as it was and wasn't going to get it off.