2025 Transfer Portal

[xubrew]

We are now in a dead period until the 10th because everyone wants to stop for a week for the coaches convention and the Final Four. No visits or anything so don't be alarmed if we don't hear of any more guys visiting or being contacted.

Hopefully though we hear of some official commitments today or tomorrow. It would be nice to have 5-6 guys at the end of the week.

I added to your post. I hope you don't mind.

[D-West & PO-Z]

There are approximately 70 schools that make up the “power 4” conferences. Each is limited to 15 players for its complete roster. That’s 1,050 roster spots. But some contend that only 8-9 players per school will actually get playing time and be willing to stay. So in that scenario those school only have about 500-600 openings this year. On the other hand, probably no more than a handful of those schools can afford to pay all of those players at the upper level of the pay scale, so if a player is going to go only to who pays them the most, some of those players are going to have to look elsewhere than those P4 programs for a big payday. In addition, not many of those schools really have more than 3-4 open roster spots because they DO HAVE some returning players who aren’t moving elsewhere looking for a better pay day. So in reality there are really only about 300-400 open P4 roster spots this year. (That’s and average of 4-5 per school). MOST of the players in the portal are from NON P4 Schools, and are looking to move up. But there aren’t as many openings as there are players wanting to fill them. There are currently some 1200 players in the portal. Another several hundred are expected to enter sometime in the next 20 days.

Bottom line….there are gong to be lots of very good players that don’t find a spot in the P4 conference schools as the schools don’t have enough openings, or enough money, to accommodate them all. Sure, they will get the very best. But hasn’t it always been that way? Xavier (and the rest of the BE) will be fine.

Totally agree. This is why I’ve never been concerned about X and Pitino filling out a competitive roster. And while X is not at the top of the NIL we are in the upper half from what has been rumored of our fund.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I don't want to get involved in this, but the way most basketball players are built is that very few bench guys think of themselves as being bench guys. They don't go to a school knowing they will end up on the bench. They go there expecting to play (whether it's realistic or not) and end up on the bench. So, you wouldn't want to recruit anyone and tell them that their role will be to be a developmental player even if that's what you intend for them to be. They're going to be told they'll have an opportunity to compete for a key role.

Yep this is a similar point I made in a previous post. Agreed. Now with NIL they do have a more realistic view of where they stand in the pecking order, however, no coach is going to play a guy making more than a guy making less if the guy making less has completely outplayed him and would be better for the team winning going forward. So those guys getting less and at the end of the bench still go in most times thinking I’m good enough to get into the rotation.

[xubrew]

Yep this is a similar point I made in a previous post. Agreed. Now with NIL they do have a more realistic view of where they stand in the pecking order, however, no coach is going to play a guy making more than a guy making less if the guy making less has completely outplayed him and would be better for the team winning going forward. So those guys getting less and at the end of the bench still go in most times thinking I’m good enough to get into the rotation.

And if a guy is playing more at a major program they'll almost assuredly a way to get him more money. If someone expected to ride the bench in the Horizon League has a breakout year, then perhaps not, but if someone at any Big East school starts to break out, some donor, or sponsor, or business that has ties to the program will step up.

[94GRAD]

We almost agreed. Until you said they won’t know if they are #8 or # 13.

They WILL know. Cause I’m willing to pay #8 100K and I’m willing to pay #13 20K.

If I have 120k to fill out my last guy in the rotation, the LAST thing I want is 2 guys @60 each.

This was my issue with last years team. Hugley? Why? He didn’t even fit our style of play. We had the guy lose 50 pounds and he was awful. Fletcher, Anderson and the walk ons all got money….that could have been better used elsewhere. Period.

How much did we pay Trey Green? He didn’t make it 10 games before he quit. And make no mistake, he quit. He was exhibit A on the idea that you pay a guy to be a developmental piece. But he could even hack it for a year without bailing out. Craft used us for a year. Had a solid year at Miami and will cash in as a trophy portal guy for a decent mid major….or a rotation piece for a high major….right back where he started.

I would spend the money on the order of what I need. As a result, out last few guys should get the least money and be the least needed. They will know when they see superior guys already signed up and we have little dollars for them.

I kinda look at it as an MLB Baseball franchise. 95% of the money gets spent on the MLB club. 4% probably goes into AAA. The other 1% is spent on bus rides from Nowhere, Iowa to Nowhere, Wisconsin.

Players are paid monthly. Once Sean and Trey agreed that he needed to step away, he was no longer paid.

[Xville]

Traore in the portal. Fucking great. Probably end up at Texas. This is frustrating.

[drudy23]

Traore in the portal. Fucking great. Probably end up at Texas. This is frustrating.

Hopefully this means the two talked and upgrades are coming.

[Xville]

Hopefully this means the two talked and upgrades are coming.

An upgrade over a guy that averaged a double-double? I'm very skeptical given how expensive big men are.

[LOLmickcronin]

An upgrade over a guy that averaged a double-double? I'm very skeptical given how expensive big men are.

Technically last year he averaged 0-0. It is odd timing though with waiting so long—- does make you think coach recommended him doing it.

[Caveat]

Hopefully this means the two talked and upgrades are coming.

Or he looked at who was / wasn't coming in and decided to get out while he still could.

I think Pitino will eventually be a good hire for Xavier, but next year could be an absolute dumpster fire.

[Xville]

Technically last year he averaged 0-0. It is odd timing though with waiting so long—- does make you think coach recommended him doing it.

I dunno. It's been rumored for 4-5 days that he was leaving. My guess Texas just had to get the money right. Makes sense he would want to follow the guy he built a relationship with. No matter how much of a scumbag he is.

[Xville]

Well all the guys we got for the last 2 years seem to be pretty interested in money.

We literally have ZERO returning minutes next year. Not one guy on next years roster will have played a minute for Xavier previously. We will have had around 45 guys over the last 4 years.

This daydreaming about a bygone age when players developed over a 4 year career is just insane . Those days are over.

I’d rather have a solid strategy centered around the current environment than one that reminisces about some former situation.

We’re not getting freshmen that sit on the bench. We had one lined up last year. He bailed and went to WVU. Now he’s headed to UNC. Is he a UNC level talent? I don’t know and it doesn’t matter. But he’s gonna be wearing powder blue next year and making more money than most of us.

Economics people. Follow the basic economics principles. Is said this would happen. Mid major teams would become the minor leagues to the teams with deep pockets. It’s literally happening.

And yet there are endless hypothetical ideas that just fall flat in the shadow of reality.


Money, money, money….in every situation, always. That’s how to anticipate the next move. And the one after that, and the one after that, etc

Yet, you choose to ignore that it's happening the other way too. The guys who don't quite hack it at the major level, drop down and can perform at the mid major level. You continue to say how right you were about everything, yet you aren't.

Not every decision is based solely on money. You also continue to say that and say you are correct. With nothing to really back that up other than your opinion.

[Caveat]

Yet, you choose to ignore that it's happening the other way too. The guys who don't quite hack it at the major level, drop down and can perform at the mid major level. You continue to say how right you were about everything, yet you aren't.

Not every decision is based solely on money. You also continue to say that and say you are correct. With nothing to really back that up other than your opinion.

FWIW, this is exactly how minor league teams work -- the best talent goes to the major leagues, the players that "can't hack it" get sent back down.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Or he looked at who was / wasn't coming in and decided to get out while he still could.

I think Pitino will eventually be a good hire for Xavier, but next year could be an absolute dumpster fire.

I’m still confident we field a respectable team.

I like the kind of player Pitino is targeting. There’s so much time left in not going to freak out.

And the math.

The fact that there's 1200+ players in the portal with hundreds more to come and we are supposedly a top 40 NIL school.

The top 40 teams need about 400 players. Most probably have half their team filled already.

I’m going with patience and once we have a roster will start to either freak out or get more excited.

[D-West & PO-Z]

FWIW, this is exactly how minor league teams work -- the best talent goes to the major leagues, the players that "can't hack it" get sent back down.

However, many of those guys who can’t hack it at the higher level perform great for their new mid major team. Look at Craft at Miami. He was their second best player.

[Caveat]

However, many of those guys who can’t hack it at the higher level perform great for their new mid major team. Look at Craft at Miami. He was their second best player.

Sure -- but that's permanent stratification of the sport.

You're never going to see teams like Gonzaga or Xavier rise up and increase their profile nationally if they're only getting players that can compete at a mid-major level against other mid-major teams. It's not a recipe for winning big non-conference games or making tournament runs.

[murray87]

I’m still confident we field a respectable team.

I like the kind of player Pitino is targeting. There’s so much time left in not going to freak out.

And the math.

The fact that there's 1200+ players in the portal with hundreds more to come and we are supposedly a top 40 NIL school.

The top 40 teams need about 400 players. Most probably have half their team filled already.

I’m going with patience and once we have a roster will start to either freak out or get more excited.

This portal madness reminds me of a wild day on Wall Street and we're nervously looking at updates and worrying about our individual portfolios. Patience is needed but also hard to do!

[Caveat]

I’m still confident we field a respectable team.

I like the kind of player Pitino is targeting. There’s so much time left in not going to freak out.

And the math.

The fact that there's 1200+ players in the portal with hundreds more to come and we are supposedly a top 40 NIL school.

The top 40 teams need about 400 players. Most probably have half their team filled already.

I’m going with patience and once we have a roster will start to either freak out or get more excited.

I'm not freaking out by any means -- but Pitino's NM team went 13-19 in his first year there. He indicated in his presser he's trying to build the program, not necessarily go for the quickest fix to the roster.

And, I don't care what era we're living in, getting 15 completely new players into the program along with an entirely new coaching staff and way of doing business is going to be a monumental effort. That's 15 new guys that will all need to get onto campus and get settled. 15 news guys that will all need to meet with the strength, conditioning and nutrition team to get on plans. 15 new guys the coaching staff will need to evaluate and come up with plans to get their game improved.

There isn't a single piece of the 2025-2026 Xavier Basketball program, outside of Dante, that is currently settled and living in Cincinnati right now. That's coaches and players alike. This is a studs-up rebuild of the entire thing. If they're even remotely competitive in the Big East next year (like 6-7 wins), Pitino should get a medal.

[GoMuskies]

Not EXACTLY the same situation by any means, but Kelsey had a similar task at Louisville last year. 0 returning players, and while Louisville is a high profile program, they were coming off two straight years of being the worst P5/6 team in the country, so it was a bit of a sell job. They weren't a great team by any means, but they managed to finish 2nd in the (admittedly bad) ACC and make the Tournament. No reason Pitino can't do something relatively similar at Xavier.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I'm not freaking out by any means -- but Pitino's NM team went 13-19 in his first year there. He indicated in his presser he's trying to build the program, not necessarily go for the quickest fix to the roster.

And, I don't care what era we're living in, getting 15 completely new players into the program along with an entirely new coaching staff and way of doing business is going to be a monumental effort. That's 15 new guys that will all need to get onto campus and get settled. 15 news guys that will all need to meet with the strength, conditioning and nutrition team to get on plans. 15 new guys the coaching staff will need to evaluate and come up with plans to get their game improved.

There isn't a single piece of the 2025-2026 Xavier Basketball program, outside of Dante, that is currently settled and living in Cincinnati right now. That's coaches and players alike. This is a studs-up rebuild of the entire thing. If they're even remotely competitive in the Big East next year (like 6-7 wins), Pitino should get a medal.

Don’t forget Roddy!

Pitinos situation at NM isn’t really comparable imo. He’s in a much better spot now and at a time where you can build a team quickly from scratch.

He also didn’t shy away for big expectations right away when asked what a successful 1st season looked like. He said his goal was BE champions every season. Now some say that’s coach speak and yes to a certain degree but it also is easy in that spot to try and tamper any expectations and lament the big job in front of him and talk about reasonable expectations etc which he didn’t do.

He definitely has a tall yaks in front of him. I will remain patient and see how it unfolds. But I think any just expectation we for sure stink next year is wrong and a cop out for Pitino. We should expect at least competency and competitiveness from year 1.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Not EXACTLY the same situation by any means, but Kelsey had a similar task at Louisville last year. 0 returning players, and while Louisville is a high profile program, they were coming off two straight years of being the worst P5/6 team in the country, so it was a bit of a sell job. They weren't a great team by any means, but they managed to finish 2nd in the (admittedly bad) ACC and make the Tournament. No reason Pitino can't do something relatively similar at Xavier.

Very fair comparison. They have more resources but like you said it’s not like they were pulling it and kids were dying to play there. Kelsey did a great job and they got screwed on their seed and faced a tough Creighton team rd 1.

[MHettel]

Not EXACTLY the same situation by any means, but Kelsey had a similar task at Louisville last year. 0 returning players, and while Louisville is a high profile program, they were coming off two straight years of being the worst P5/6 team in the country, so it was a bit of a sell job. They weren't a great team by any means, but they managed to finish 2nd in the (admittedly bad) ACC and make the Tournament. No reason Pitino can't do something relatively similar at Xavier.

And how would you characterize the NIL situation for UofL last year? Broadly, did the have one of the largest NIL budgets?

Maybe that had something to do with it.

[GoMuskies]

I don't know that they did. I don't know that they brought in a bunch of high priced guys that were roundly coveted by others. Maybe a couple of guys. They should have more of a hunting license this year now that Louisville's donors trust Kelsey.

[Xville]

I don't know that they did. I don't know that they brought in a bunch of high priced guys that were roundly coveted by others. Maybe a couple of guys. They should have more of a hunting license this year now that Louisville's donors trust Kelsey.

Outside of Hepburn whom I'm guessing was pricey, they didn't bring in anyone that was that highly regarded. They didn't have the money available that they do now in NIL. There was hesitancy on Kelsey who was a big unknown at this level, and the wallets were not opened up.

[Xavier]

From everything I’ve seen the NIL was about the same as X actually. I think the bigger difference is playing in the ACC vs Big East though. I don’t think Louisville had a win over a tournament team since January. Kinda crazy to say, just way easier to rack up wins in the ACC

[Xville]

From everything I’ve seen the NIL was about the same as X actually. I think the bigger difference is playing in the ACC vs Big East though. I don’t think Louisville had a win over a tournament team since January. Kinda crazy to say, just way easier to rack up wins in the ACC

Correct. Of course now it is much higher with the big money donors understanding that Kelsey can coach at this level. The pressure is going to be on him this year though. They are spending a whole lot of money on this years' roster, and a one and done in the tournament isn't going to cut it.

[MHettel]

Correct. Of course now it is much higher with the big money donors understanding that Kelsey can coach at this level. The pressure is going to be on him this year though. They are spending a whole lot of money on this years' roster, and a one and done in the tournament isn't going to cut it.

I just took a look at the UofL roster. It’s worth the time to scroll through the players and check their histories.

Aside from 1 returner and 4 dudes that Kelsey brought from Charleston, it’s pretty apparent what his roster strategy was.

First, he had 1 FR, 1 So, 3 JRs, and 12 SRs. ( a few guys logged 0 PT so maybe redshirt or injury).

He clearly just brought in some bodies for the end of the bench. Looks like he grabbed about 6 guys with starting experience and another 2 or 3 that had other PT and were probably envisioned as rotation guys. The freshman contributes a little. 2 guys from CofC started.

It doesn’t look like he spread the money too thin at all. I don’t know for sure but again 4 or 5 guys were just bodies out there. Maybe they were walk ons.

And the roster was clearly built to get through year 1

[Caveat]

https://x.com/247HSHoops/status/1907843510599893348

All Wright is All In.

[Xville]

I just took a look at the UofL roster. It’s worth the time to scroll through the players and check their histories.

Aside from 1 returner and 4 dudes that Kelsey brought from Charleston, it’s pretty apparent what his roster strategy was.

First, he had 1 FR, 1 So, 3 JRs, and 12 SRs. ( a few guys logged 0 PT so maybe redshirt or injury).

He clearly just brought in some bodies for the end of the bench. Looks like he grabbed about 6 guys with starting experience and another 2 or 3 that had other PT and were probably envisioned as rotation guys. The freshman contributes a little. 2 guys from CofC started.

It doesn’t look like he spread the money too thin at all. I don’t know for sure but again 4 or 5 guys were just bodies out there. Maybe they were walk ons.

And the roster was clearly built to get through year 1

He did a really great job at balancing for the immediate and the future.

Edwards - Senior
Hepburn - Senior
Smith - Senior
Hadley - 2 years
Pryor - Senior
Scott - Soph
Waterman - Senior
Rooths - Freshman
Johnson - junior
Traore - Senior
Khalifa---coming off injury so redshirted this year but will be rotation next year.

Pryor was a starter but he got injured so he will be back. They are also bringing back Hadley, Scott, Rooths, Johnson and Khalifa. So had Pryor not gotten injured, they would have brought back 5 guys, but since he did, they bring back 6. It's a great starting point, and allowed them to be very aggressive right out of the gate and identify a few guys to backfill positions. This is the kind of thing that I'm talking about that X needs to do in terms of strategy and development.

[Xville]

https://x.com/247HSHoops/status/1907843510599893348

All Wright is All In.

Thank goodness. I was starting to get worried because there was a ton of smoke yesterday and then it was eerily quiet.

So, Roddie has said he's staying home today and we got our scoring guard. Time for some scoring and defensive bigs.

[Caveat]

Roddie Anderson also confirmed to be staying.

Honestly just a hilarious way to do it as well.

https://x.com/RoddieAnderson/status/1907837572996297081

[Three Point Pete]

https://x.com/247HSHoops/status/1907843510599893348

All Wright is All In.Alrighty then! So, possibly Anderson and Wright, now we need a SG?


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[Xville]

Alrighty then! So, possibly Anderson and Wright, now we need a SG?


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Pretty sure Wright is the SG. I think he can handle the ball a bit but definitely not a pure pg.

[Three Point Pete]

Pretty sure Wright is the SG. I think he can handle the ball a bit but definitely not a pure pg.I'm confused, I think of him as a shooter, but Valpo website lists him as 6'3" 180 lb. PG.

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[ArizonaXUGrad]

2 down 11 to go, good lord what a joke.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Thank goodness. I was starting to get worried because there was a ton of smoke yesterday and then it was eerily quiet.

So, Roddie has said he's staying home today and we got our scoring guard. Time for some scoring and defensive bigs.

Yep, officially have a 3 man team again!

[D-West & PO-Z]

2 down 11 to go, good lord what a joke.

3 down!

[GoMuskies]

Yeah, there's a guy from NM's team, right?

[xukeith]

Totally agree. This is why I’ve never been concerned about X and Pitino filling out a competitive roster. And while X is not at the top of the NIL we are in the upper half from what has been rumored of our fund.

Upper half of BE?
I thought X's NIL $ was below GU, SJ, MU, CU, UConn, and Nova.

[Xville]

I'm confused, I think of him as a shooter, but Valpo website lists him as 6'3" 180 lb. PG.

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Unless x upgrades, Roddie is our starting pg and wright our starting sg. Would love the Evansville Italian as our hybrid. Get that guy and then load up on bigs. Washington is still out there and would be a great pickup to round out our rotation guards

[Xville]

Louisville gets Mckneeley...geezus they are building something down there:

Conwell
McKneeley
Wooley
Brown--McD All-American

all in the backcourt. woof.

[MHettel]

I guess we could play some 2 on 2

[MHettel]

He did a really great job at balancing for the immediate and the future.

Edwards - Senior
Hepburn - Senior
Smith - Senior
Hadley - 2 years
Pryor - Senior
Scott - Soph
Waterman - Senior
Rooths - Freshman
Johnson - junior
Traore - Senior
Khalifa---coming off injury so redshirted this year but will be rotation next year.

Pryor was a starter but he got injured so he will be back. They are also bringing back Hadley, Scott, Rooths, Johnson and Khalifa. So had Pryor not gotten injured, they would have brought back 5 guys, but since he did, they bring back 6. It's a great starting point, and allowed them to be very aggressive right out of the gate and identify a few guys to backfill positions. This is the kind of thing that I'm talking about that X needs to do in terms of strategy and development.

How does Hadley have any eligibility left? He played in 20-21. Didn’t play in 21-22. Then 3 more years.

How does he have a year left? I know the “Covid rule” was basically that 2021-22 just doesn’t count as a year against eligibility. He didn’t play at all that year, but that’s irrelevant. Him not playing (or if he had played) doesn’t count.

How has he not played his 4 years?

[Xville]

How does Hadley have any eligibility left? He played in 20-21. Didn’t play in 21-22. Then 3 more years.

How does he have a year left? I know the “Covid rule” was basically that 2021-22 just doesn’t count as a year against eligibility. He didn’t play at all that year, but that’s irrelevant. Him not playing (or if he had played) doesn’t count.

How has he not played his 4 years?

20-21 covid year. 21-22 Junior College which doesn't count anymore. To be fair, that wasn't known when Kelsey got him, so a bit of luck on their part for sure.

Completely forgot...they redshirted another guy from CofC this year--Kobe Rodgers who will be in the mix next year as well.

That's what I'd like to see for X moving forward though and see it every year...get a base of 5-6 guys returning every year...supplement that with some freshman recruiting and guys from portal as needed. That's the way to at least develop some culture in this day and age. Attract, Retain, Develop.

[MHettel]

20-21 covid year. 21-22 Junior College which doesn't count anymore. To be fair, that wasn't known when Kelsey got him, so a bit of luck on their part for sure.

Completely forgot...they redshirted another guy from CofC this year--Kobe Rodgers who will be in the mix next year as well.

That's what I'd like to see for X moving forward though and see it every year...get a base of 5-6 guys returning every year...supplement that with some freshman recruiting and guys from portal as needed. That's the way to at least develop some culture in this day and age. Attract, Retain, Develop.

20-21 was not the COVID year. The Covid year was 21-22, and basically they said that THAT year doesn’t count. So if a guy didn’t play that year, well it still doesn’t count, but he still just gets 4 years total.

So this dude did his 4 years. The first year he played 13 games so he can’t get a redshirt for that, right?

How has he not played 4 years? Still stuck logically on why he has eligibility remaining g.

[Xville]

20-21 was not the COVID year. The Covid year was 21-22, and basically they said that THAT year doesn’t count. So if a guy didn’t play that year, well it still doesn’t count, but he still just gets 4 years total.

So this dude did his 4 years. The first year he played 13 games so he can’t get a redshirt for that, right?

How has he not played 4 years? Still stuck logically on why he has eligibility remaining g.

19-20 is when Covid hit, the following year was the “Covid” year because they played effed up schedules. 20-21 was the Covid year

[94GRAD]

20-21 was not the COVID year. The Covid year was 21-22, and basically they said that THAT year doesn’t count. So if a guy didn’t play that year, well it still doesn’t count, but he still just gets 4 years total.

So this dude did his 4 years. The first year he played 13 games so he can’t get a redshirt for that, right?

How has he not played 4 years? Still stuck logically on why he has eligibility remaining g.

2020-2021 was absolutely the Covid year.

https://www.ncaa.org/news/2020/10/14/di-council-extends-eligibility-for-winter-sport-student-athletes.aspx

[MHettel]

2020-2021 was absolutely the Covid year.

https://www.ncaa.org/news/2020/10/14/di-council-extends-eligibility-for-winter-sport-student-athletes.aspx

Ahhh. Got it.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

I thought last season was the final Covid season.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I thought last season was the final Covid season.

Nope this year. Because guys on their 5th year this year were freshman the Covid year of ‘20-‘21.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Ahhh. Got it.

This is definitely the closest we’ve ever gotten to an “I was wrong” post by Hett.

I will give you this, when you post incorrect information, you do it with authority!

[Three Point Pete]

Nope this year. Because guys on their 5th year this year were freshman the Covid year of ‘20-‘21.Like Free and his classmates

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[ArizonaXUGrad]

This is definitely the closest we’ve ever gotten to an “I was wrong” post by Hett.

I will give you this, when you post incorrect information, you do it with authority!

I was certainly wrong to think it was last year. Not a big deal, just one more year of ridiculous 24 year old seniors all over the place. Injuries are one thing, this other one is nuts.

[MHettel]

I was certainly wrong to think it was last year. Not a big deal, just one more year of ridiculous 24 year old seniors all over the place. Injuries are one thing, this other one is nuts.

I don’t think you were wrong. There will be a handful of guys that had special circumstance that will be eligible next year. Sounds like the UofL guy just played JUCO for a year(??? ) after the Covid year and so that didn’t count.

Fucking NCAA. Who knows

[paulxu]

Did someone from X transfer to St Louis?

[bjf123]

Traore has apparently entered the portal.


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[Three Point Pete]

AJ Storr entered portal. Let's get him!

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[MHettel]

Did someone from X transfer to St Louis?

Why do you ask?

[Xavier]

Trey green to STL is the rumor but don’t know if it was confirmed.

[D-West & PO-Z]

St. Louis reporter confirmed Trey Green committed to SLU.

Exciting I get to keep tabs on him. Hope he kills it in the A10.

[XUBison]

St. Louis reporter confirmed Trey Green committed to SLU.

Exciting I get to keep tabs on him. Hope he kills it in the A10.

So… do you post over there as often as you do here?

[XUGRAD80]

St. Louis reporter confirmed Trey Green committed to SLU.

Exciting I get to keep tabs on him. Hope he kills it in the A10.

That’s a good place for him to be. I wish him well.

[D-West & PO-Z]

So… do you post over there as often as you do here?

I do not post on any other boards. I very casually follow SLU and hope Schertz can get things going there.

Considering your keen attention to my posting habits, perhaps you should start a fan club.​

[ArizonaXUGrad]

With Storr in the portal, what is the count at KU? Is that about everyone? I watched BE and B12 last season. KU's Self sticks with guys he knows and trusts even to the detriment of his team. He stuck it out with Harris too long and kept Storr on the bench. Guy has two titles so he knows what he is doing, but now even the guys with a good future are gone. Bidunga is going to be a good get for someone.

[Xavier]

Self is having some trouble managing the NIL era. But he is very good coach I expect him to figure it out

[D-West & PO-Z]

Self is having some trouble managing the NIL era. But he is very good coach I expect him to figure it out

It gets tough when all of a sudden every is paying players!

[Caveat]

Self is having some trouble managing the NIL era. But he is very good coach I expect him to figure it out

Self might, but lot of these older coaches aren't gonna figure it out.

Especially the ones that recruited solely on the name of their schools or their ability to coach up kids and have a pipeline of 3-4 years players that maximized talent level and bought into a system.

Jay Wright and Tony Bennett walked away because I think they knew the future wasn't going to be good for them.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Self might, but lot of these older coaches aren't gonna figure it out.

Especially the ones that recruited solely on the name of their schools or their ability to coach up kids and have a pipeline of 3-4 years players that maximized talent level and bought into a system.

Jay Wright and Tony Bennett walked away because I think they knew the future wasn't going to be good for them.

I bet locker room dynamics are a lot different especially when some players make as much or close to coaches. Colleges need to hire GMs to shield the coach from the negotiating process.

[xudash]

Would Kansas football be a major consideration in all of this, insofar as it’s going to suck a lot of oxygen out of the room with regard to that athletic department’s allocation of the $20.5 million? Whether they like it or not, the Big 12 is now a second class citizen. They cannot keep up with the spending levels of the B1G and SEC.

[Olsingledigit]

Would Kansas football be a major consideration in all of this, insofar as it’s going to suck a lot of oxygen out of the room with regard to that athletic department’s allocation of the $20.5 million? Whether they like it or not, the Big 12 is now a second class citizen. They cannot keep up with the spending levels of the B1G and SEC.

It is and has been well known that the BIG and SEC are a level above the rest. The Big 12 and ACC are also rans.

[Caveat]

Would Kansas football be a major consideration in all of this, insofar as it’s going to suck a lot of oxygen out of the room with regard to that athletic department’s allocation of the $20.5 million? Whether they like it or not, the Big 12 is now a second class citizen. They cannot keep up with the spending levels of the B1G and SEC.

Depending on how April 7th & subsequent litigation goes, there are gonna be a lot of schools like Kansas, Duke, North Carolina, etc. that are going to be forced to make some business decisions on how money is allocated.

[Xville]

I think this really has to be taken with a big ole grain of salt. However, this was posted from Dan Wetzel. Per Opendorse (NIL Tech Platform) said conference average of revenue share allocated for men's basketball is as follows:

BE: 5.7 million
ACC: 4.4 million
Big 12 4.3 million
B10: 3.2 million
SEC: 3.1 million

Couple of things to consider: 1.) who knows how accurate this is but the numbers do kind of shake out in that there have been reports that the big 10 and sec's rev share will be about 30% for basketball of the total number.

2.) this number doesn't include the real nil opportunities of which im sure there will be plenty in the big 10 and sec. And, I'm sure there will be plenty of skirting the rules or just downright cheating as far as that is concerned.

[Caveat]

I think this really has to be taken with a big ole grain of salt. However, this was posted from Dan Wetzel. Per Opendorse (NIL Tech Platform) said conference average of revenue share allocated for men's basketball is as follows:

BE: 5.7 million
ACC: 4.4 million
Big 12 4.3 million
B10: 3.2 million
SEC: 3.1 million

Couple of things to consider: 1.) who knows how accurate this is but the numbers do kind of shake out in that there have been reports that the big 10 and sec's rev share will be about 30% for basketball of the total number.

2.) this number doesn't include the real nil opportunities of which im sure there will be plenty in the big 10 and sec. And, I'm sure there will be plenty of skirting the rules or just downright cheating as far as that is concerned.

Couple of things:

- All of this is contingent on the court accepting the settlement in Hosue v. NCAA next week.

- Even if the court accepts the settlement in that case, there is going to be litigation almost immediately challenging payments made to athletes under Title IX alleging that revenue sharing must pay male and female athletes equally -- regardless of how much revenue each side generates. My guess is that there's no grounds to grant a stay on this since revenue will keep flowing yearly and any female athletes not paid could recover backpay in the event of a victory.

- There will be real NIL opportunities, but they'll be vetted by an independent group to ensure it's actually for real value and not just booster pay or from a slush fund.

- Also important to remember -- the "revenue share" money has to come from somewhere. Right now, most (if not all) of these schools -- including X -- have the revenue being spent someplace else to keep the lights on. That means the ability to commit revenue sharing dollars to sports is going to require boosters and donors to donate equivalent amounts to the university in order to offset what's going to the athletes. If you want Xaiver to have a 5.7M basketball roster, you're going to need to find donations of $5.7M to the athletic department.

And that's BEFORE the NIL opportunities the school is going to want / need to generate for players to increase comp as well. It's gonna be more important for alums with consumer facing businesses to offer NIL opportunities for athletes. Looking your way Cintas, Joseph Auto Group, Home City Ice, etc.

[A Fan]

Just catching up. Were any of you surprised that Ryan Conwell was ranked 11 in the portal and media reports said he received offers of $1.5 to $2 M by several schools?

[MHettel]

I bet locker room dynamics are a lot different especially when some players make as much or close to coaches. Colleges need to hire GMs to shield the coach from the negotiating process.

Be careful, I got skewered for saying something similar.

I actually agree with you, but you may rile up all the Pollyanna’s here

[MHettel]

Couple of things:

- All of this is contingent on the court accepting the settlement in Hosue v. NCAA next week.

- Even if the court accepts the settlement in that case, there is going to be litigation almost immediately challenging payments made to athletes under Title IX alleging that revenue sharing must pay male and female athletes equally -- regardless of how much revenue each side generates. My guess is that there's no grounds to grant a stay on this since revenue will keep flowing yearly and any female athletes not paid could recover backpay in the event of a victory.

- There will be real NIL opportunities, but they'll be vetted by an independent group to ensure it's actually for real value and not just booster pay or from a slush fund.

- Also important to remember -- the "revenue share" money has to come from somewhere. Right now, most (if not all) of these schools -- including X -- have the revenue being spent someplace else to keep the lights on. That means the ability to commit revenue sharing dollars to sports is going to require boosters and donors to donate equivalent amounts to the university in order to offset what's going to the athletes. If you want Xaiver to have a 5.7M basketball roster, you're going to need to find donations of $5.7M to the athletic department.

And that's BEFORE the NIL opportunities the school is going to want / need to generate for players to increase comp as well. It's gonna be more important for alums with consumer facing businesses to offer NIL opportunities for athletes. Looking your way Cintas, Joseph Auto Group, Home City Ice, etc.

Do you consider cutting non-revenue sports within the realm of possibilities? The school potentially saves scholarship money and will be able to cut coaching staffs and probably a little bit of administration. It’s unfortunate, but I expect this will happen here and there. Maybe not every school will do it, but my guess is that some will.

[Caveat]

Just catching up. Were any of you surprised that Ryan Conwell was ranked 11 in the portal and media reports said he received offers of $1.5 to $2 M by several schools?

6'4" guard who can absolutely rip it from 3 against high-major competition, can create his own shot going to the hoop and defends his positions decently well? Absolutely not surprised in this market.

[Caveat]

Do you consider cutting non-revenue sports within the realm of possibilities? The school potentially saves scholarship money and will be able to cut coaching staffs and probably a little bit of administration. It’s unfortunate, but I expect this will happen here and there. Maybe not every school will do it, but my guess is that some will.

I suspect everything is on the table.

You're still going to need to comply with TIX in terms of scholarships and opportunities -- so the schools playing football are still gonna have to offer a ton of women's non-rev stuff. There are also considerations with conferences and what they'll require to meet requirements for membership.

The other part of this to remember is that the people making these decisions are still university presidents. And, at the end of the day, they still think of themselves as academics and these schools as academic institutions. Cutting the swim team or the tennis team to pay a shooting guard another $50K probably isn't gonna go over well in the circles they run in.

[Xville]

Anthony Robinson committed.
Top 100 recruit. Another guy with three years left. Nothing impressive numbers wise but hopefully can develop.

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5143921/anthony-robinson

[noteggs]

LFG! Welcome to X Mr Robinson!

[Xville]

He looks athletic and big and doesn’t mind dunking/finishing which is a refreshing sight. Can definitely see what pitino is trying to do with these signings. I just hope the retain element can happen if they do develop into great players

[Three Point Pete]

Xavier is now up to 19 in portal rankings

Sent from my SM-A326U using Tapatalk

[XUBison]

I do not post on any other boards. I very casually follow SLU and hope Schertz can get things going there.

Considering your keen attention to my posting habits, perhaps you should start a fan club.​

Oh, for sure. I mean, what would this board be if you weren’t there to put your seal of approval/disapproval on every single post?

[Xville]

Oh, for sure. I mean, what would this board be if you weren’t there to put your seal of approval/disapproval on every single post?

Geezus. What exactly is your problem? Someone piss in your cheerios this morning?

[MHettel]

Anthony Robinson committed.
Top 100 recruit. Another guy with three years left. Nothing impressive numbers wise but hopefully can develop.

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5143921/anthony-robinson

Somewhat limited minutes on the whole, but he was averaging high teens in minutes closer to the end of the year. Hard to project out what his number would be in a full game (30 mpg), but they seems decent at least.

.6 blocks in 9 minutes stands out. Haven’t had a rim protector in a while. Nunge was solid. Tyrique before him was decent. Just not that many guys like that in the program over the last 30 years.

[Xville]

Somewhat limited minutes on the whole, but he was averaging high teens in minutes closer to the end of the year. Hard to project out what his number would be in a full game (30 mpg), but they seems decent at least.

.6 blocks in 9 minutes stands out. Haven’t had a rim protector in a while. Nunge was solid. Tyrique before him was decent. Just not that many guys like that in the program over the last 30 years.

He looks athletic and big so I like that side of it, and hopefully as you said he can be a bit of a rim protector. Not sure he can shoot outside 2 ft right now as all his highlights were dunks. I like the strategy that pitino is going with here, we will see if it pays off. Would love that Evansville Italian guy next as the swing man.. kid looks uber athletic and again has 3 years left.

[SkyWalker]

We have 4 players now. At least we have a bowling team.

[Xavier]

Virginia fans really wanted to keep him. Thats usually a good sign. Mostly lobs and stuff like that from pick and roll on offense. Defensive rim protector

[MHettel]

Virginia fans really wanted to keep him. Thats usually a good sign. Mostly lobs and stuff like that from pick and roll on offense. Defensive rim protector

Perfect. Tyrique basically.

Assume he’s a starter?

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Perfect. Tyrique basically.

Assume he’s a starter?

I would love Tyrique but taller. I remember Ty being around 6'7-8.

[MHettel]

I would love Tyrique but taller. I remember Ty being around 6'7-8.

I wouldn’t have guessed 6’9”. But he played Big.

Need that in the BE.

[XUGRAD80]

I wouldn’t have guessed 6’9”. But he played Big.

Need that in the BE.

Ty was 6’7” on a good day. But as you say, he played bigger many times. He did struggle against taller players though. A warrior for sure, but he had some physical limitations that came into play against taller lineups. Robinson is listed at 6’10, but that doesn’t mean he actually is.

[Xavier]

Perfect. Tyrique basically.

Assume he’s a starter?

Probably. And that’s what people were saying, but Jones looked more intimidating to me. Granted this kid is only a sophomore.

Here he is meeting and blocking Flagg at the rim. Disregard the turnover leading to it lol.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=14&v=nhFU09nCDrs&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2F247sports.com% 2F&source_ve_path=MTM5MTE3LDIzODUx

[Xville]

Need a legit 3, the pozzaro kid would be nice get him, jones if that’s an option, get two more big guys and the rest rotation and we are all set lol

[D-West & PO-Z]

Anthony Robinson committed.
Top 100 recruit. Another guy with three years left. Nothing impressive numbers wise but hopefully can develop.

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5143921/anthony-robinson

Love it. Fits the mold of what Pitino has been targeting. Young guy, several years left, obviously talented, good guy to take a chance on. And hes big.

[D-West & PO-Z]

He looks athletic and big and doesn’t mind dunking/finishing which is a refreshing sight. Can definitely see what pitino is trying to do with these signings. I just hope the retain element can happen if they do develop into great players

Yep that’s the key for sure. Have guys with multiple years left which is great but definitely need to retain the core group each year for that to matter.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Need a legit 3, the pozzaro kid would be nice get him, jones if that’s an option, get two more big guys and the rest rotation and we are all set lol

Any idea where we stand with Washington the NM guard?

[Three Point Pete]

Texas Tech is looking at Tru.

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[xukeith]

Will any of our new transfers start? Are they BE ready?

[XUGRAD80]

Will any of our new transfers start? Are they BE ready?

Yes and maybe

[XUGRAD80]

Any idea where we stand with Washington the NM guard?

Bidding war in process, and some schools are taking the process more slowly as they wait to see what happens Monday with the lawsuit.

[Cincypunk.org]

How we looking now?

PG Roddie Anderson
6’3 - 190 - From Boise State
Avg. 26 mins a game, 6.5 points, 2.5 assists, 3 rebounds; bad 3PT and FT shooter (54%)

Why did his PT average and shooting percentages al go way down when he jumped from UC San Diego to Boise State??? His turnovers did improve from 3.5 to 1.9 a game.

Played from a crappy UCSD team than a better Boise State team.

SG All Wright
6’3 - 180 - Sophomore from Valparaiso
Avg. 30 mins a game, 15.5 points, 2.4 assists, 2.2 rebounds, 38% from 3 (shoots 5 a game)
MVC freshman of the year

Comes from a team that sucked

SF or PF (?) Filip Boravicanin
6’9 - 230 - Senior - From New Mexico
Avg. 23 mins a game, 6 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1 assist; 32% from 3 (shoots 3 a game)

Comes from 3 NCAA tourney teams (Arizona and NM)

SF or PF


C Anthony Robinson
6’10 - 250 - Sophomore - From Virginia
Avg. 9 mins a game, 3.6 points, 2.5 rebounds, 0.6 blocks

Good at finishing lobs. I feel Xavier has rarely had a player athletic enough to consistently run the Creighton type lob play.

Comes from a Virginia team that sucked



Grab Gabrielle Pozzato and go from there?

[hoopster68]

CP: Thanks for a good summary.

[atljar]

At some point, I thought I remembered reading that Roddie Anderson was one of the most impressive players, in practice, on last years team. I have really high hopes for him. (Maybe on the Sean Miller podcast??)

[xuphan]

Will any of our new transfers start? Are they BE ready?

That’s a really good question. So far, we have brought in three transfers Filip, All, and Anthony. They could all three start though I think there are questions on all three of them if they are Big East ready. Wright looks like a promising player but is young and it is a big step up from the MVC to the Big East. Filip and Anthony seem like support players based on their stats. Anthony is a project and it’s anyone’s guess if he will be a boom or a bust. I also wonder if Pitino is bringing in younger players in the hope of keeping them around for multiple years. I’d love that personally but it’s a risky gamble in the world of NIL/transfer portal. If we are going to compete in the Big East top half next season Pitino needs to bring in guys who can put the ball in the bucket. Decent start so far but we need a lot more talent if we are going to compete next season.

[Xavier]

My favorite Analysis from CP is that Creighton invented the Lob play

[Xavier]

Texas Tech is looking at Tru.

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So are a lot of the Texas schools. (TCU,Baylor,Texas). Not sure what to expect during the “dead” period in terms of commitments. Very little?

[Xville]

That’s a really good question. So far, we have brought in three transfers Filip, All, and Anthony. They could all three start though I think there are questions on all three of them if they are Big East ready. Wright looks like a promising player but is young and it is a big step up from the MVC to the Big East. Filip and Anthony seem like support players based on their stats. Anthony is a project and it’s anyone’s guess if he will be a boom or a bust. I also wonder if Pitino is bringing in younger players in the hope of keeping them around for multiple years. I’d love that personally but it’s a risky gamble in the world of NIL/transfer portal. If we are going to compete in the Big East top half next season Pitino needs to bring in guys who can put the ball in the bucket. Decent start so far but we need a lot more talent if we are going to compete next season.


I think roddie is a starter. Outside of that, will all be dependent on who else is brought in. Wright may start but probably depends on if x somehow gets Washington which who knows with that many schools involved.

[xuphan]

I think roddie is a starter. Outside of that, will all be dependent on who else is brought in. Wright may start but probably depends on if x somehow gets Washington which who knows with that many schools involved.

I think Filip will start as well. He was a consistent starter under Pitino at New Mexico and will add much needed experience to the program. It all depends on how talented the rest of the guys who are brought in are which is anyone’s guess. Hopefully Pitino can bring in some scorers to finish out the roster.

[Xville]

I think Filip will start as well. He was a consistent starter under Pitino at New Mexico and will add much needed experience to the program. It all depends on how talented the rest of the guys who are brought in are which is anyone’s guess. Hopefully Pitino can bring in some scorers to finish out the roster.

Maybe right. I’d like more of a scorer at the forward spot than what he is. Lots of spots to fill out, we shall see how it goes. I’d really like pozzato. He seems like a perfect fit

[Xavier]

It sounds like Pozzato is possible but wouldn’t count on it. I like him, too. It’s hard to say who will be starting or not at the moment, a lot of slots to fill out.

[Xville]

It sounds like Pozzato is possible but wouldn’t count on it. I like him, too. It’s hard to say who will be starting or not at the moment, a lot of slots to fill out.

Who else is involved with him?

[Xville]

Still of course very early in the portal process and things could change based on who x still gets, however Have a feeling with what pitino’s strategy seems to be that we aren’t going to be good next year at all. That’s fine if we retain and continue building and not looking for the quick fix. Just hope it’s a strategy that pays off in the end. I’ll take that approach over a whole new team every year

[Section 200]

Still of course very early in the portal process and things could change based on who x still gets, however Have a feeling with what pitino’s strategy seems to be that we aren’t going to be good next year at all. That’s fine if we retain and continue building and not looking for the quick fix. Just hope it’s a strategy that pays off in the end. I’ll take that approach over a whole new team every year

You are already giving up next year even before this years tournament is done? At least wait until the roster is filled

[Xville]

You are already giving up next year even before this years tournament is done? At least wait until the roster is filled

I’m not giving up, I’m just seeing what pitino is doing and who he is going after. That’s what I’m basing it on. If you look at what golden did at Florida, it’s very similar. The first year was nit, second year he got a couple of three star recruits in in Haugh and condon and a few transfers with multiple years of eligibility. And now we have all seen what they are doing now. They did not go after the big names in the portal for the most part. They got a couple of talented guys but not the ones that were demanding a few million.

I’m fine with this strategy. It may change all of a sudden if I see pitino actively going after one and done type guys in the portal but that’s not what I’m seeing. I’m seeing developmental guys with talent with multiple years of eligibility. I’ve said for three years that’s what Xavier needed to do to compete in this era. We don’t have the pocketbook even with a good amount of nil to go head to head with guys that have multiple high priced offers

[xuphan]

Still of course very early in the portal process and things could change based on who x still gets, however Have a feeling with what pitino’s strategy seems to be that we aren’t going to be good next year at all. That’s fine if we retain and continue building and not looking for the quick fix. Just hope it’s a strategy that pays off in the end. I’ll take that approach over a whole new team every year

Very risky strategy. Let’s say Robinson has a great season next year. You don’t think his agent won’t try to move him for more money? Think you have to get the best players each and every portal season and expect them to hit the portal after each season. Sadly just the state of college basketball at the moment.

[Xville]

Very risky strategy. Let’s say Robinson has a great season next year. You don’t think his agent won’t try to move him for more money? Think you have to get the best players each and every portal season and expect them to hit the portal after each season. Sadly just the state of college basketball at the moment.

It’s a risk, but it’s obvious to anyone paying attention that we can’t get the best players every portal season, so I like this approach.

Yes his agent may do that but as I mentioned in my previous post, this is the strategy that Florida employed to a degree and look where they are now. And who knows maybe there were discussions of “escalators” for next year an beyond. If you do this, then you’ll get this next year etc. I dunno if those negotiations actually happen, but maybe they do?

With the house resolution if it passes, next year is a much different portal world than it is today.

Again, lots of time and things may change based on who we get, I’m just seeing who we are going after and that’s what I’m basing my thoughts on.


I also have a feeling based on what he has said that pitino is going to go heavy in freshman recruiting in 26-27.

I just hope the fans stay patient next year if this what happens.

I’ll also remind everyone that free could have gone anywhere, swain could have gone anywhere last year, Dayvion same thing. I wouldn’t use what happened this year as a guideline for what will happen in subsequent years—-our coach left. Of course we weren’t going to retain anyone. Guys do still stay… Illinois state (22 win team) top 3 guys have all said they are staying, they could have all had huge paydays.

[MHettel]

Very risky strategy. Let’s say Robinson has a great season next year. You don’t think his agent won’t try to move him for more money? Think you have to get the best players each and every portal season and expect them to hit the portal after each season. Sadly just the state of college basketball at the moment.

Correct, unfortunately

[MHettel]

It’s a risk, but it’s obvious to anyone paying attention that we can’t get the best players every portal season, so I like this approach.

Yes his agent may do that but as I mentioned in my previous post, this is the strategy that Florida employed to a degree and look where they are now. And who knows maybe there were discussions of “escalators” for next year an beyond. If you do this, then you’ll get this next year etc. I dunno if those negotiations actually happen, but maybe they do?

With the house resolution if it passes, next year is a much different portal world than it is today.

Again, lots of time and things may change based on who we get, I’m just seeing who we are going after and that’s what I’m basing my thoughts on.


I just hope the fans stay patient next year if this what happens.

It’s easy to point to a team (Florida) that used some strategy that you prefer and point out how it worked. But it’s not a novel idea by any stretch. And they are probably countless teams that also employed the strategy and are now trying to figure out how to re-stock their roster after their guys all left following a busted season.

There are probably 50 teams that did this. And one made the final 4. M

Im not knocking the idea. It’s just that ideas are freaking worthless if the practical application is problematic or can’t live up to the projected outcome.

We have 4 guys. Nobody has a clue what Pitino is trying to do at this point

[Xville]

It’s easy to point to a team (Florida) that used some strategy that you prefer and point out how it worked. But it’s not a novel idea by any stretch. And they are probably countless teams that also employed the strategy and are now trying to figure out how to re-stock their roster after their guys all left following a busted season.

There are probably 50 teams that did this. And one made the final 4. M

Im not knocking the idea. It’s just that ideas are freaking worthless if the practical application is problematic or can’t live up to the projected outcome.

We have 4 guys. Nobody has a clue what Pitino is trying to do at this point

I pointed to Florida because they started from scratch 3 years ago with a new coach. Yeah there are several teams that did this, retain and develop. Marquette was one, creighton another to a certain degree.

Did I say it was a novel idea? lol.

Every strategy has risks to it, I prefer this one for a school like x.


We have a pretty good indication on what pitino is trying to do. He told us in the press conference, and based on who he is going after and has gotten so far. He’s told the truth.

[xukeith]

He’s told the truth.

How do any of us know he is telling the truth? No coach speak?

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Let's maybe pump the brakes here on next year, this year isn't quite done yet. We have four players. When we have 13 and mid summer, then we can complain but we have barely gotten going.

[Xville]

Got another one

Jovan milivecic from unm. Nothing wrong with another 6’10 freshman

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5101673/jovan-milicevic

[Xavier]

Looks like another 6’10 kid from NM commits to X. Was a freshman, didn’t see much time. 12 min a game, only thing that pops out from stats is 45% from 3 on 59 attempts

https://x.com/jovanmilicevic9/status/1908679619516956818?s=46&t=KSvFnm-Lpouy3B6BA2rQBg

Did see on discord that Pozzato kids agent likes X the most for what it’s worth. (Which I assume means X is offering the most) and Trilly originally thought All Wright committing meant Tru was off the table for X but that might not be the case after all.

Some of his stuff from NM
https://m.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=57&v=oLt7cShkJ3E&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2F247sports.com% 2F&source_ve_path=MTM5MTE3LDIzODUx

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Nice to see a Canadian joining. Millicevic was born here in Toronto, Canada. A big who likes to shoot 3s.
This brings back memory of another BIG Canadian player, the 7’5” Sim Bhullar, who were supposed to play for X but ended up going to New Mexico.

[MHettel]

Slowly coming together. I definitely like the Wright signing. Any freshman that score 15 a night is worth taking a shot with. Also like the big from Virginia, who seems like a rim defender. The new big from NM is definitely NOT a rim protector but a stretch shooter. Good that Pitino already coached him, that’s a vote of confidence.

The older guy from NM seems more like a glue guy. Not good number but played starter minutes. Fine pickup, you need a couple guys like that.

I’d like that Pozzato guy. Didn’t see any defensive highlight but what he was doing offensively suggests that he could be a swain-like disruptor, which seems to be a style that RPJ prefers.

Wish list: older defensive Big, backup handles (assuming Anderson is viewed as a starter), combo scorer on the mold of Maddox, maybe a limited big that can shoot (welage type). And a couple freshmen for sure. Would be great if we could get recommitments from our prior recruits

[Xavier]

Tru Washington and Pazzoto would be a dream.

[Xville]

Is milovic a stretch 4 kinda seems like he might be. A stretch 4 at 6’10 if he develops? Oh man!

[Xville]

If Washington and pozzato come that’s the makings of a good team. Not great right now but could definitely be great down the line if the retained and developed

[XUGRAD80]

There is still a loooong way to go before this roster is set, but I’m liking the fact that he seems to be targeting longer and taller players than we have seen recently be the focus.

[xuphan]

There is still a loooong way to go before this roster is set, but I’m liking the fact that he seems to be targeting longer and taller players than we have seen recently be the focus.

Another solid role player. Need a couple of impact starters to balance the roster.

[xukeith]

Can role players and a couple of BE level athletes break the upper half of the BE?

Do we give Pitino a year to figure out a solid roster vs BE teams and raise expectations in 2026-27 season?

I am hoping his roster can finish 0.500 or better in conference. This first year building a new roster with 10-12 players who are all new takes time to win realistically.

[Xville]

Can role players and a couple of BE level athletes break the upper half of the BE?

Do we give Pitino a year to figure out a solid roster vs BE teams and raise expectations in 2026-27 season?

I am hoping his roster can finish 0.500 or better in conference. This first year building a new roster with 10-12 players who are all new takes time to win realistically.

If he can get a wing or two and/or another scoring guard or two, I think roster wise they could compete in the upper half of the big East next year. We will see how the rest of the roster shakes out. Gotta remind ourselves just how much freshmen can make a large jump to their second year as well. Yeah some of these guys may have been role players this last year but who knows what they look like after a year of college ball.

[Xavier]

I don’t understand the obsession of analyzing the roster so much when it’s 5 players. Having said that, X isn’t going to bring in a bunch of studs. They will recruit to Pitino style and that doesn’t really need a lot of studs. Length, really good defense, rebounding+a couple play makers.

I think we will see both Milicevic and Flip spend time at the 3, but more so Milicevic. His preference is to shoot 3s. He should be a 6’10 floor spacer. Just think of the 3/4 guys as being interchangeable at times while on the court. Pitino had 3 starters at 6’9 or taller last year. I hope that’s a consistent theme at X.

[JTG]

Can we knock off the wait til 26-27 crap. We're going to the Dance next March. Pitino wants to build, but he also wants to win.

[JEHARDI]

Can we knock off the wait til 26-27 crap. We're going to the Dance next March. Pitino wants to build, but he also wants to win.

I like the optimism but a lot of work left to do if we are going to be dancing next year. Will need a few proven players.

[bjf123]

Can role players and a couple of BE level athletes break the upper half of the BE?

Do we give Pitino a year to figure out a solid roster vs BE teams and raise expectations in 2026-27 season?

I am hoping his roster can finish 0.500 or better in conference. This first year building a new roster with 10-12 players who are all new takes time to win realistically.

It’s way too early to be thinking about where we’ll finish in the BE. Do any of the teams really know what their full roster will be next year?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[drudy23]

Can we knock off the wait til 26-27 crap. We're going to the Dance next March. Pitino wants to build, but he also wants to win.

Exactly. We're not St. Louis. The goal and the push EVERY YEAR, regardless of circumstances, is to make the tournament.

[drudy23]

I like the optimism but a lot of work left to do if we are going to be dancing next year. Will need a few proven players.

This statement is true every year. Nothing is guaranteed, but your main program goal every year is to make the tournament.

Fans have to have the same level of expectations. In the NIL era, it's been proven this type of rebuild is very much possible for the programs that are worth a damn. If you're saying we can't get there in year one, it's kind of saying "we're not worthy".

It's a completely different world now, what's happened in the past doesn't really apply.

Big difference between willing and capable. The program is certainly capable, but they have to be willing. It's a new world and you need to be all-in (no pun intended) on a new approach, otherwise, it's just the same ole same ole Cincinnati mindset of looking backwards and re-hashing the past.

[Xville]

This statement is true every year. Nothing is guaranteed, but your main program goal every year is to make the tournament.

Fans have to have the same level of expectations. In the NIL era, it's been proven this type of rebuild is very much possible for the programs that are worth a damn. If you're saying we can't get there in year one, it's kind of saying "we're not worthy".

It's a completely different world now, what's happened in the past doesn't really apply.

Big difference between willing and capable. The program is certainly capable, but they have to be willing. It's a new world and you need to be all-in (no pun intended) on a new approach, otherwise, it's just the same ole same ole Cincinnati mindset of looking backwards and re-hashing the past.

While I agree to a certain extent, I think if x is getting mostly freshmen and sophs there is also a look toward the future as well and actually building a program vs going after one year rentals. I like this approach. Maybe the rest of the roster is fillled out with those one and done players but we shall see.

[XUGRAD80]

This statement is true every year. Nothing is guaranteed, but your main program goal every year is to make the tournament.

Fans have to have the same level of expectations. In the NIL era, it's been proven this type of rebuild is very much possible for the programs that are worth a damn. If you're saying we can't get there in year one, it's kind of saying "we're not worthy".



There’s a world of difference between being a “goal” and being the “expectation”.

Unless Pitino is bringing in the Fab 5, I would not expect X to take a roster of sophomores from low major schools and turn them into a squad that is going to finish in the top half of the BE.

We really shouldn’t be talking about expectations until we see what the roster looks like. I have no problem with having the tourney as a goal, but if it was easy EVERY team would do it.

[drudy23]

There’s a world of difference between being a “goal” and being the “expectation”.

Unless Pitino is bringing in the Fab 5, I would not expect X to take a roster of sophomores from low major schools and turn them into a squad that is going to finish in the top half of the BE.

We really shouldn’t be talking about expectations until we see what the roster looks like. I have no problem with having the tourney as a goal, but if it was easy EVERY team would do it.

Ugh. Keep this mentality away from the Cintas Center.

This is exactly the mindset from fans that drives me nuts. Mid major thinking for sure.

You're either playing with the big boys or you're not.

Expectations are no different because of the circumstances. They can't be if you want to continue to be in the big boy pool.

[drudy23]

While I agree to a certain extent, I think if x is getting mostly freshmen and sophs there is also a look toward the future as well and actually building a program vs going after one year rentals. I like this approach. Maybe the rest of the roster is fillled out with those one and done players but we shall see.

How do you convince kids to stick around without some rule changes?

Literally, teams with amazing success are still having most of their roster test the portal. If everyone is a free agent, that's never going to change unless there are rule changes. 99% of free agents are always going to test the market. It will be no different at X.

I don't know why people think the reality of the NIL world isn't going to apply to X as well. Sure, a couple will stick around because they love X - but most will search for the bigger payday. These schools have no way of controlling a player testing the market, so it will most assuredly happen every year unless there are sweeping controls put in place by whoever runs this shitshow (which seems like no one at this point).

[D-West & PO-Z]

Can we knock off the wait til 26-27 crap. We're going to the Dance next March. Pitino wants to build, but he also wants to win.

I’m not sure if we will go to the dance, not even will be once our whole roster is together, but I’m generally right here with you.

If next year is bad I won’t be out on Pitino, but I’m not for giving him a free pass in year 1. The blueprints are out there for power programs with similar budgets to be tourney teams (or at least close) in year 1 with total or close to total rebuilds.

44% of those 1 year coaches made the tourney in year 1.

We better be competitive next year.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Exactly. We're not St. Louis. The goal and the push EVERY YEAR, regardless of circumstances, is to make the tournament.

Damn, the Billikens catching strays! Cmon drudy!

[D-West & PO-Z]

This statement is true every year. Nothing is guaranteed, but your main program goal every year is to make the tournament.

Fans have to have the same level of expectations. In the NIL era, it's been proven this type of rebuild is very much possible for the programs that are worth a damn. If you're saying we can't get there in year one, it's kind of saying "we're not worthy".

It's a completely different world now, what's happened in the past doesn't really apply.

Big difference between willing and capable. The program is certainly capable, but they have to be willing. It's a new world and you need to be all-in (no pun intended) on a new approach, otherwise, it's just the same ole same ole Cincinnati mindset of looking backwards and re-hashing the past.

Reps! Public and the other kind!

[D-West & PO-Z]

How do you convince kids to stick around without some rule changes?

Literally, teams with amazing success are still having most of their roster test the portal. If everyone is a free agent, that's never going to change unless there are rule changes. 99% of free agents are always going to test the market. It will be no different at X.

I don't know why people think the reality of the NIL world isn't going to apply to X as well. Sure, a couple will stick around because they love X - but most will search for the bigger payday. These schools have no way of controlling a player testing the market, so it will most assuredly happen every year unless there are sweeping controls put in place by whoever runs this shitshow (which seems like no one at this point).

Somewhat agree somewhat disagree.

I do think if out only ends up with fresh/sophs and hoping for them to develop and stick around that’s a risky strategy.

However, I also think if miller doesn’t leave not every guys is in the portal either. Like 2 years ago free and swain and McKnight didn’t all enter the portal even though surely someone could have given them more money. So there is certainly something to be said for bringing in some guys with several years left and some upside getting them in your system building the relationship then having success and wanting to stay. And X can ALSO pay the guys they want to keep some decent money. So it all plays a factor.

I just don’t agree that every player every year at every school is going to enter the portal looking to make more. Bc that’s not what has happened at X or a lot of other places that have some money to spend.

[Xavier]

The only years in the past 15 I didn’t have the expectation of making the tournament: Steele first year (the roster was awful, first year coach, etc) and last year (losing your starting front court, who were suppose to be leaders of the team, with no depth pieces in place and too late to fix). In the portal era, a coaching change isn’t changing my expectation. We should make the tournament.

All year people were saying “you gotta have a mix of development, recruiting, and transfers” and now that Pitino is showing he likes to develop and build a team- people say “it’s pointless, you start from scratch every year”. Both can’t be true. 3 players left his MW championship team and he had Pieces in place to win the 4 bid league again. It’s clearly important he values some core players

[drudy23]

The next few years are going to be very different than what we're used to as Xavier fans - and honestly, it's what I'm looking forward to the most.

I will have very little patience for fans that cling to the past and aren't open to a new way. We're going to have a completely different profile of player. A completely new scheduling philosophy. A completely new style, especially on the defensive end. A coach that has ZERO ties to what once was.

Hopefully new halftime shows, hopefully new in-game promos, hopefully new music at intros, hopefully new songs the band plays, hopefully new sponsors, hopefully new pretzels, hopefully new everything. I enjoy it, but it's been the same for a looooooooong time.

New things have to be embraced. For whatever reason, people in this city love being somewhat in the shadows with the ability to surprise people vs. being aggressive from the front. Like "well, we're still just this small Midwestern liberal arts college where much shouldn't be expected. Look how much we've accomplished being the small fish in the big sea" - we're past that now. It's time to grow up, fans included. Just tired of the safe and traditional Midwest mental approach to athletics in this city, as you can probably tell.

Just a general point for the future. A new era is upon us.

[Xavier]

Was back and forth on renewing tickets towards end of the year. But I am with Pitino. Look forward to watching something different, and in the future bigger schools/games in the non con. Prolly too late to get the new scheduling philosophy in place for this upcoming season.

[XUBison]

Geezus. What exactly is your problem? Someone piss in your cheerios this morning?

Oh, I hope not, but that would certainly put me in a prickly spot. — Just giving some grief, nothing more. .

[XUBison]

There’s a world of difference between being a “goal” and being the “expectation”.

Unless Pitino is bringing in the Fab 5, I would not expect X to take a roster of sophomores from low major schools and turn them into a squad that is going to finish in the top half of the BE.

We really shouldn’t be talking about expectations until we see what the roster looks like. I have no problem with having the tourney as a goal, but if it was easy EVERY team would do it.

The tourney is the expectation every year, end of story. This can happen if we bring in some good players, so long as Richard is the right man. It doesn’t mean it’s make or break for him in year one if we don’t make it, but that always has to be the expectation. No need for a semantic debate – why set a goal if you have no expectation of achieving it?

[xudash]

The next few years are going to be very different than what we're used to as Xavier fans - and honestly, it's what I'm looking forward to the most.

I will have very little patience for fans that cling to the past and aren't open to a new way. We're going to have a completely different profile of player. A completely new scheduling philosophy. A completely new style, especially on the defensive end. A coach that has ZERO ties to what once was.

Hopefully new halftime shows, hopefully new in-game promos, hopefully new music at intros, hopefully new songs the band plays, hopefully new sponsors, hopefully new pretzels, hopefully new everything. I enjoy it, but it's been the same for a looooooooong time.

New things have to be embraced. For whatever reason, people in this city love being somewhat in the shadows with the ability to surprise people vs. being aggressive from the front. Like "well, we're still just this small Midwestern liberal arts college where much shouldn't be expected. Look how much we've accomplished being the small fish in the big sea" - we're past that now. It's time to grow up, fans included. Just tired of the safe and traditional Midwest mental approach to athletics in this city, as you can probably tell.

Just a general point for the future. A new era is upon us.

If you skimmed drudy's post before, please take the time to read it carefully now.

As I have pointed out before, I sat through Tay Baker, 3.2 Hudy beer on the floor and Schmidt Memorial Fieldhouse from 74 to 78, and stuck around through 81 for my MBA as the school finally decided to get its act together. I attended Bob Staak's first pep rally at the Armory, wondering that evening if Xavier could ever reach the heights of Marquette or DePaul, or another key Catholic player at that time (at least for me) - Digger Phelps and Notre Dame.

My filter for all of this WAS jaded by that distant past of true ineptitude. Not any more.

We DO have one of the finest on campus basketball venues IN THE NATION.

We DO have a fan base that enjoys a great reputation for generating an awesome home court advantage.

We DO enjoy a national reputation in the sport. No F4's or NC's, but 3 E8's and boodles of S16's, along with many years and victories in the NCAAT.

We generate more revenue in our athletic department than any of the MAC schools and most other non-P4 schools.

And the Big East is about to land in a good place with respect to ongoing competitive positioning, albeit not without the P2 finding ways to address their basketball needs by other means, if necessary. We've always faced a hierarchy in the sport. We'll continue to do so, but we should also be capable of achieving our goals: NCAAT's about every year, runs to a F4, and, with luck and match ups, a shot at a NC.

Last thing: coaching continuity. Still would love to achieve it with the right guy. Maybe Richard finds a unique home here, maybe not. But in this new world of plug and play, at least we have, for the most part, made good decisions in this area. At the very least, the Xavier job is attractive. There should be no debate about that.

Let's let the man finish filling out his roster and we'll go from there.

[SlimKibbles]

Haven’t posted on here in a long time. Just wanted to say I thought the posts by drudy and dash were excellent. It’s great advice and perspective.

My family had season tickets starting in 87-88, dad passed in 13, I kept them thru 19-20, and didn’t renew post COVID. I’ve struggled with fandom since then, at least to the degree it once was. Life changes and the changing college sports landscape will do that. Still an X fan and supporter but it’s just different now. I’m excited about the future and how different it appears it will be from what we’re used to.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[JEHARDI]

Ugh. Keep this mentality away from the Cintas Center.

This is exactly the mindset from fans that drives me nuts. Mid major thinking for sure.

You're either playing with the big boys or you're not.

Expectations are no different because of the circumstances. They can't be if you want to continue to be in the big boy pool.

Then we better start recruiting with the big boys too, to date we are not seeing that. Uconn signed 3 McDonald's All Americans.

[Xville]

Kerr Karissa signs with uc. Dude will be 25 ffs. But hell I guess hunter
Is too.

[hoopster68]

Then we better start recruiting with the big boys too, to date we are not seeing that. Uconn signed 3 McDonald's All Americans.

+1

[Xville]

The maac player of the year, Amari Monroe, was being courted by big time programs.. and chose to stay at quinnipiac. Kinda wild. I guess there is some loyalty left. I’m starting to see this a bit more here and there. Maybe guys are talking and mentioning that the grass isn’t always greener.

[drudy23]

Then we better start recruiting with the big boys too, to date we are not seeing that. Uconn signed 3 McDonald's All Americans.

Hopefully revenue share and additional donors get us there. I have no idea what's going to happen, we may get worse.

But I'm open to a new way forward.

Just please no "this isn't the Xavier way" talk if it doesn't start off in the right direction. Doesn't mean an upheaval isn't necessary.

[drudy23]

Kerr Kriisa was relevant like 4 seasons ago. He's an afterthought now.

[xukeith]

Just hoping Pitino has enough $ for Washington and Pozzato.

[MHettel]

Just hoping Pitino has enough $ for Washington and Pozzato.

I can’t see where any real money has been spent. Anderson is an unknown. Weird situation with him, frankly. We basically have an older guy, Filip, that’s looks like a “dime a dozen” type role player, and three freshmen, only 1 of which played meaningful minutes, albeit at a much lower leverage. If we have 5M, I’m assuming we’re maybe committed to 1.5. I just can’t see where the market would put a higher tag on these guys. Not a complain, but to some degree you do have to post some number in order to command that big payday.

I assume we do have the ability to get 2 more proven guys. Top dollar guys.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I can’t see where any real money has been spent. Anderson is an unknown. Weird situation with him, frankly. We basically have an older guy, Filip, that’s looks like a “dime a dozen” type role player, and three freshmen, only 1 of which played meaningful minutes, albeit at a much lower leverage. If we have 5M, I’m assuming we’re maybe committed to 1.5. I just can’t see where the market would put a higher tag on these guys. Not a complain, but to some degree you do have to post some number in order to command that big payday.

I assume we do have the ability to get 2 more proven guys. Top dollar guys.

Agree. Seems like we should have some decent money left. I could see 1.5-1.75 having already been committed so far to the 5 we have. Hoping it’s not much more than that. I would think the MVC frosh of the year would have been the most sought after and maybe would be around 500k? Hoping no more than 300k for the others so far?

We should be able to make a decent size splash or two to get to 7 and then fill the rest out with some decent change still left. If the 5 mil number is correct.

[Cincypunk.org]

Agree. Seems like we should have some decent money left. I could see 1.5-1.75 having already been committed so far to the 5 we have. Hoping it’s not much more than that. I would think the MVC frosh of the year would have been the most sought after and maybe would be around 500k? Hoping no more than 300k for the others so far?

We should be able to make a decent size splash or two to get to 7 and then fill the rest out with some decent change still left. If the 5 mil number is correct.

What a world where you can average 4 points and 4 rebounds a game and get $250,000 a year as a 20-year-old.

I should have been tall. ��

[xuphan]

What a world where you can average 4 points and 4 rebounds a game and get $250,000 a year as a 20-year-old.

I should have been tall. ��

Does this include a year of free tuition at XU?

[XUGRAD80]

Ugh. Keep this mentality away from the Cintas Center.

This is exactly the mindset from fans that drives me nuts. Mid major thinking for sure.

You're either playing with the big boys or you're not.

Expectations are no different because of the circumstances. They can't be if you want to continue to be in the big boy pool.

Just exactly what has Xavier ACTUALLY ACCOMPLISHED in the last 7 years that would make you group them with the “Big Dogs”? Take off the rose colored glasses and look reality in the face. A couple of tournament appearances, a sweet 16, one NIT championship is all I see. Just being in the BE doesn’t make you a “big dog” either. See Butler, see DePaul, see Seton Hall. When was the last time that X had a top 20 recruiting class, for example? When in the last 2 coaching regimes did they finish the season as a top 20 school? Have to stop living in the past and look at the way things are NOW. You can’t fix a problem if you can’t SEE that there is a problem first. Right NOW, X is pretty far down. That’s the REALITY of the situation.

Like others, I am OPTIMISTIC that these problems will be overcome and corrected. But unlike how some others might think, I’m not expecting an overnight reversal of fortune. I think I have a pretty good grasp of where X actually ranks in the world of college BB, of what their current situation actually is, and of the challenges they face. I’m still optimistic that the programs best days are ahead of them. I’m only saying that before we fans make any predictions in regards to what the team may accomplish next year, we might want to wait and see who is actually ON the team next year. So far….meh. They have some depth, that might develop in the future, but I don’t see anyone capable of going head to head with the “big dogs” and being successful NEXT YEAR. Meanwhile I do see some of the other teams in the conference reloading, and not rebuilding. I’m willing to give him a couple of years to BUILD the PROGRAM back to where it was, and then to build it up BEYOND where it was. I’m not going to lose my head if they suck next year, as long as I see them building a basis for future success.

“Continue to be in the big boy pool”? It’s been awhile since they have swam in that pool, IMO.

[Xville]

Just exactly what has Xavier ACTUALLY ACCOMPLISHED in the last 7 years that would make you group them with the “Big Dogs”? Take off the rose colored glasses and look reality in the face. A couple of tournament appearances, a sweet 16, one NIT championship is all I see. Just being in the BE doesn’t make you a “big dog” either. See Butler, see DePaul, see Seton Hall. When was the last time that X had a top 20 recruiting class, for example? When in the last 2 coaching regimes did they finish the season as a top 20 school? Have to stop living in the past and look at the way things are NOW. You can’t fix a problem if you can’t SEE that there is a problem first. Right NOW, X is pretty far down. That’s the REALITY of the situation.

Like others, I am OPTIMISTIC that these problems will be overcome and corrected. But unlike how some others might think, I’m not expecting an overnight reversal of fortune. I think I have a pretty good grasp of where X actually ranks in the world of college BB, of what their current situation actually is, and of the challenges they face. I’m still optimistic that the programs best days are ahead of them. I’m only saying that before we fans make any predictions in regards to what the team may accomplish next year, we might want to wait and see who is actually ON the team next year. So far….meh. They have some depth, that might develop in the future, but I don’t see anyone capable of going head to head with the “big dogs” and being successful NEXT YEAR. Meanwhile I do see some of the other teams in the conference reloading, and not rebuilding. I’m willing to give him a couple of years to BUILD the PROGRAM back to where it was, and then to build it up BEYOND where it was. I’m not going to lose my head if they suck next year, as long as I see them building a basis for future success.

“Continue to be in the big boy pool”? It’s been awhile since they have swam in that pool, IMO.

I agree with this. X isn't a big dog right now, not in terms of money and not in terms of other resources. IMO X maxed out what they can do by going with mainly one year rentals this past year. Yes, maybe with a healthy Traore they could have won a game or two in the tournament, but that's it. We have a decent nil budget, but we can't play with the big dogs unless we attract, RETAIN and develop. I like the strategy by Pitino that I have seen so far in getting younger guys with years of eligibility. Coach them up, max out their potential, and then we can dip our toe into the big boy pool by getting a star or two in later years. Not sure why this isn't clear to some, I have been bitching about it for over two years now saying this is exactly what they need to do. I'm all for some short term pain for long term gain. Not saying X is going to be awful this upcoming season, but I wouldn't expect us cutting down the nets either....it's going to take time. Pitino wants to build back the program, and X doesn't have an unlimited budget to do it in one year.

[Xavier]

Agree. Seems like we should have some decent money left. I could see 1.5-1.75 having already been committed so far to the 5 we have. Hoping it’s not much more than that. I would think the MVC frosh of the year would have been the most sought after and maybe would be around 500k? Hoping no more than 300k for the others so far?

We should be able to make a decent size splash or two to get to 7 and then fill the rest out with some decent change still left. If the 5 mil number is correct.

No clue on the numbers. I’d assume Wright was more. We did beat out a few bigger schools for him. I saw the Pazzoto kid was rumored to be offered 800K from BYU but X has offered more. All rumors from Trilly folks.

[bleedXblue]

I agree with this. X isn't a big dog right now, not in terms of money and not in terms of other resources. IMO X maxed out what they can do by going with mainly one year rentals this past year. Yes, maybe with a healthy Traore they could have won a game or two in the tournament, but that's it. We have a decent nil budget, but we can't play with the big dogs unless we attract, RETAIN and develop. I like the strategy by Pitino that I have seen so far in getting younger guys with years of eligibility. Coach them up, max out their potential, and then we can dip our toe into the big boy pool by getting a star or two in later years. Not sure why this isn't clear to some, I have been bitching about it for over two years now saying this is exactly what they need to do. I'm all for some short term pain for long term gain. Not saying X is going to be awful this upcoming season, but I wouldn't expect us cutting down the nets either....it's going to take time. Pitino wants to build back the program, and X doesn't have an unlimited budget to do it in one year.

Sort of agree. Pitino talked about culture and the closeness of his NM program. We must recruit and retain guys at a higher clip than other high level programs and keep guys for 2-3 years to gain a benefit. If it works out, I'm all in. Yes, there will be some short term pain. That doesn't mean I'm happy with it and accepting of it. Its just being realistic.

[D-West & PO-Z]

No clue on the numbers. I’d assume Wright was more. We did beat out a few bigger schools for him. I saw the Pazzoto kid was rumored to be offered 800K from BYU but X has offered more. All rumors from Trilly folks.

Yeah I could see him being more.

I think Pazzoto seems worth what it seems like we may have offered him. Looks like a lot of upside there.

Hoping we secure some proven upper classmen too, which I am sure we will. Have to remember this is a long portal process too. I definitely get antsy for some instant gratification but I feel confident Pitino and staff are working hard and talking to guys we don't even know about.

[Jumpin_Jamal_Forever]

Just exactly what has Xavier ACTUALLY ACCOMPLISHED in the last 7 years that would make you group them with the “Big Dogs”? Take off the rose colored glasses and look reality in the face. A couple of tournament appearances, a sweet 16, one NIT championship is all I see. Just being in the BE doesn’t make you a “big dog” either. See Butler, see DePaul, see Seton Hall. When was the last time that X had a top 20 recruiting class, for example? When in the last 2 coaching regimes did they finish the season as a top 20 school? Have to stop living in the past and look at the way things are NOW. You can’t fix a problem if you can’t SEE that there is a problem first. Right NOW, X is pretty far down. That’s the REALITY of the situation.

Like others, I am OPTIMISTIC that these problems will be overcome and corrected. But unlike how some others might think, I’m not expecting an overnight reversal of fortune. I think I have a pretty good grasp of where X actually ranks in the world of college BB, of what their current situation actually is, and of the challenges they face. I’m still optimistic that the programs best days are ahead of them. I’m only saying that before we fans make any predictions in regards to what the team may accomplish next year, we might want to wait and see who is actually ON the team next year. So far….meh. They have some depth, that might develop in the future, but I don’t see anyone capable of going head to head with the “big dogs” and being successful NEXT YEAR. Meanwhile I do see some of the other teams in the conference reloading, and not rebuilding. I’m willing to give him a couple of years to BUILD the PROGRAM back to where it was, and then to build it up BEYOND where it was. I’m not going to lose my head if they suck next year, as long as I see them building a basis for future success.

“Continue to be in the big boy pool”? It’s been awhile since they have swam in that pool, IMO.

Agree with this assessment. But your post does make me wonder...........what is the past perfect tense of "swim"? I think it is "swum" not "swam".

[UCGRAD4X]

Yeah I could see him being more.

I think Pazzoto seems worth what it seems like we may have offered him. Looks like a lot of upside there.

Hoping we secure some proven upper classmen too, which I am sure we will. Have to remember this is a long portal process too. I definitely get antsy for some instant gratification but I feel confident Pitino and staff are working hard and talking to guys we don't even know about.

He said on Eisen that he expects the roster to be in place June 1st.

[XUGRAD80]

Agree with this assessment. But your post does make me wonder...........what is the past perfect tense of "swim"? I think it is "swum" not "swam".

Old English dictionary says…swam

South of the Mason-Dixon Line…..swum is correct

:)

[GoMuskies]

Wrong thread

[Muskeagle]

Agree with this assessment. But your post does make me wonder...........what is the past perfect tense of "swim"? I think it is "swum" not "swam".

Not to nerd out too much on this, but since you asked...

Swim (present), swimming (present participle), swam (past), swum (past participle).

To form the perfect tense you use "to have" (tense of this decides which perfect tense you are in) + "past participle".

So it should be "have swum"....which would be the present perfect tense. ("had swum" is the past perfect tense).

Sorry to derail this fine thread.

[XUGRAD80]

UC just had Skillings and Griffin enter the portal. Griffin is a local kid, might consider X and he is a good kid with high potential.

[Xavier]

https://x.com/travisbranham_/status/1909305350773207130?s=46&t=KSvFnm-Lpouy3B6BA2rQBg

6’4 guard out of Miami, top 100 recruit (I saw some say top 60 recruit but I can’t find that) out of HS last year. Visit set with X and some zooms set with other schools.

[Xville]

https://x.com/travisbranham_/status/1909305350773207130?s=46&t=KSvFnm-Lpouy3B6BA2rQBg

6’4 guard out of Miami, top 100 recruit (I saw some say top 60 recruit but I can’t find that) out of HS last year. Visit set with X and some zooms set with other schools.

Another Freshman with upside...guessing this is a backup if Washington commits elsewhere.

[xukeith]

All my life as an X fan I have always analyzed the quality of recruits on 247, on3, hoopscoop, etc.

Seeing Creighton, SJU, UConn, Georgetown and to some extent even Providence rake in some serious talent, bothers me.

X has a ton of roster space. Maybe I should wait for Pitino to deliver some top talent. The 4 transfers so far are good, okay, not great.

The Virginia soph looks like an athlete and played vs some good talent.

Lots and lots of sophomores usually do not win as there is a learning curve. I am not saying lets get back to Miler's senior only recruiting.

But X needs some serious talent or X will fall in mediocracy in the BE again. Good coaching, good talent and luck can get X in upper half of BE.

I hope Pitino surprises me and X blows the talent charts off the table. Maybe I should reserve these concerns until after portal transfers dry up.

Just concerned.

[Xville]

All my life as an X fan I have always analyzed the quality of recruits on 247, on3, hoopscoop, etc.

Seeing Creighton, SJU, UConn, Georgetown and to some extent even Providence rake in some serious talent, bothers me.

X has a ton of roster space. Maybe I should wait for Pitino to deliver some top talent. The 4 transfers so far are good, okay, not great.

The Virginia soph looks like an athlete and played vs some good talent.

Lots and lots of sophomores usually do not win as there is a learning curve. I am not saying lets get back to Miler's senior only recruiting.

But X needs some serious talent or X will fall in mediocracy in the BE again. Good coaching, good talent and luck can get X in upper half of BE.

I hope Pitino surprises me and X blows the talent charts off the table. Maybe I should reserve these concerns until after portal transfers dry up.

Just concerned.

Pozzato from what I can tell and what the stats say would be a really big boost.


Patience…. Still have at least 7 holes to fill

[xuphan]

All my life as an X fan I have always analyzed the quality of recruits on 247, on3, hoopscoop, etc.

Seeing Creighton, SJU, UConn, Georgetown and to some extent even Providence rake in some serious talent, bothers me.

X has a ton of roster space. Maybe I should wait for Pitino to deliver some top talent. The 4 transfers so far are good, okay, not great.

The Virginia soph looks like an athlete and played vs some good talent.

Lots and lots of sophomores usually do not win as there is a learning curve. I am not saying lets get back to Miler's senior only recruiting.

But X needs some serious talent or X will fall in mediocracy in the BE again. Good coaching, good talent and luck can get X in upper half of BE.

I hope Pitino surprises me and X blows the talent charts off the table. Maybe I should reserve these concerns until after portal transfers dry up.

Just concerned.

I would wait until the portal closes. We still have several roster spots to fill and who know who still becomes available in the portal. Like others have said, the amount of freshman/sophomores that we are targeting can’t be a coincidence. I understand if Pitino wants to build a roster for multiple seasons but I just don’t know if that climate exists in college basketball anymore. The amount of guys who hit the portal looking for better pay makes me think we will struggle to retain some of the youngsters next season. Still hoping we get a couple high impact guys to commit in the next couple of weeks.

[Xville]

I’d also just add.. Creighton has a very healthy nil from what I have been told and I’m sure kalk was making a pretty penny. Lots of money freed up along with pop Isaac’s and ashworth.

Georgetown may have signed some guys but Mack is also in the portal and sorber is gone.

Sju and UConn I get it, but we are never going to compete with those guys dollar wise. I mean sju’s main donor is Mike repole…. The guy is worth over a billion.


I really think we will be in good shape and get to even greater heights with pitino. It may just take longer than one offseason :)

[Xavier]

There’s a lot of talent out there and I’d imagine more to come. Just be patient before seeing where we stand.

The Big East does seem to be adding some talent, thank God. I see it as a good thing, only getting 3 teams last year was tough. I think Creighton was better than an 8/9 seed but the lack of quality teams in BE hurt. We need a strong Big East.

[xuphan]

I’d also just add.. Creighton has a very healthy nil from what I have been told and I’m sure kalk was making a pretty penny. Lots of money freed up along with pop Isaac’s and ashworth.

Georgetown may have signed some guys but Mack is also in the portal and sorber is gone.

Sju and UConn I get it, but we are never going to compete with those guys dollar wise. I mean sju’s main donor is Mike repole…. The guy is worth over a billion.


I really think we will be in good shape and get to even greater heights with pitino. It may just take longer than one offseason :)

Not sure what height he will take us in the future but I’m still expecting to make the NCAA tournament next year.

[XUGRAD80]

……I’m still expecting to make the NCAA tournament next year.

What are you basing that expectation on at this point in the rebuild?

[Xville]

I’ve seen a crystal ball for x getting this guy.

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4684289/tre-carroll

Will be a senior. Lots of growth this year stats wise. I know nothing about his game but 6’7 230 indicates he’s a strong dude.

[MHettel]

What are you basing that expectation on at this point in the rebuild?

I can answer that. The program is sufficiently resourced and has the necessary elements to make the tournament every year. Period.

Doesn’t matter which year, which coach, which players.

If you stratify all the D1 teams you basically can assume that of the 68 total bids about 32 of them are auto bids. 5-7 of those auto bids will go to multi-bid leagues. The premier multi bid leagues have about 70 teams total. Add in the MWC that has inched their way up the ladder some and will (between them and the “new” Pac12) continue to get 2-3 at large bids a year. Let’s say there are around 80 teams fighting for around 36 total at large bids.

All you need to go is finish in the top 50% among those 80 teams to feel safely in. Is that too much to ask? Is that too much to expect?

I say 9/10 years in the dance. I’ll accept a year with circumstances here and there.

But our DOWN years need to be the years where we are 8/9/10 years.

We just finished a stretch of 7 years with 2 tourney appearances, one of which was a PIG seed. That does NOT meet expectations. at all.

We need t big time bounce back season next year. To reemerge on the scene as an annual threat to make a run.

Recency is huge. We were a 1 seed once. Remember that? Seemed kinda like yesterday cause I can recall the level of excitement I had. But it was 8 years ago. Nobody else remembers. We get ZERO dividends from that.

We have a LONG road ahead of us. We were on the doorstep of a FF. We just had a reset. Need a big year next year

[xuphan]

I’ve seen a crystal ball for x getting this guy.

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4684289/tre-carroll

Will be a senior. Lots of growth this year stats wise. I know nothing about his game but 6’7 230 indicates he’s a strong dude.

He looks like a solid prospect. Very athletic and can step out and shoot from deep. His experience is also a positive. My only concern if it is a concern watching his highlight video is his height. He seems a bit undersized at the 4 and not quick enough to be a 3. Would be a solid pickup.

[xuphan]

I can answer that. The program is sufficiently resourced and has the necessary elements to make the tournament every year. Period.

Doesn’t matter which year, which coach, which players.

If you stratify all the D1 teams you basically can assume that of the 68 total bids about 32 of them are auto bids. 5-7 of those auto bids will go to multi-bid leagues. The premier multi bid leagues have about 70 teams total. Add in the MWC that has inched their way up the ladder some and will (between them and the “new” Pac12) continue to get 2-3 at large bids a year. Let’s say there are around 80 teams fighting for around 36 total at large bids.

All you need to go is finish in the top 50% among those 80 teams to feel safely in. Is that too much to ask? Is that too much to expect?

I say 9/10 years in the dance. I’ll accept a year with circumstances here and there.

But our DOWN years need to be the years where we are 8/9/10 years.

We just finished a stretch of 7 years with 2 tourney appearances, one of which was a PIG seed. That does NOT meet expectations. at all.

We need t big time bounce back season next year. To reemerge on the scene as an annual threat to make a run.

Recency is huge. We were a 1 seed once. Remember that? Seemed kinda like yesterday cause I can recall the level of excitement I had. But it was 8 years ago. Nobody else remembers. We get ZERO dividends from that.

We have a LONG road ahead of us. We were on the doorstep of a FF. We just had a reset. Need a big year next year

Thank you! I’ll also add the the transfer portal/NIL allows for any rebuild to be done in a year if the coach picks the right players for the program. We are X and our expectations should be to make the NCAA tournament every year.

[Xavier]

I’ve seen a crystal ball for x getting this guy.

https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4684289/tre-carroll

Will be a senior. Lots of growth this year stats wise. I know nothing about his game but 6’7 230 indicates he’s a strong dude.

Scored 24 against MSU. But really don’t know much about him and tough to tell from the highlight reel.

[drudy23]

I seriously can't believe there are still Xavier fans that don't think making the tournament every year is realistic. Yes, there are going to be 1-2 seasons per decade where weird things just happen, but 80-90% of the time is very realistic.

I just don't get this mentality. People act like it's still 1989.

[Xavier]

Completely agree with Hetts post. I thought X was in position to consistently be a 6 seed or better. That was my expectation, with off years being on the bubble. That unfortunately has changed. But still make the tournament.

[drudy23]

It just shows how bad the past 6-7 of 8 years have been. Just not us. At all.

[Xville]

I seriously can't believe there are still Xavier fans that don't think making the tournament every year is realistic. Yes, there are going to be 1-2 seasons per decade where weird things just happen, but 80-90% of the time is very realistic.

I just don't get this mentality. People act like it's still 1989.

I’m not sure that people are saying it isn’t realistic. Next year is just one year where I’d give the program a break if it were not to happen. We don’t have 10 million to spend, we have five. We have a new coach and he’s replacing an entire roster. It could be fine and we will waltz into the tourney, but im not gonna be shocked if it looks a little disjointed next year either. Who knows though… still lots of roster to fill

[drudy23]

It is kind of weird we all will probably have little clue if we're any good or not on opening night.

But if we can get some great roster construction with some good balance and decent depth, even if none of them are 5 star guys, I think we'll be fine. A roster with 8-10 contributors can be better than one with 2 studs and diluted depth.

[Caveat]

I seriously can't believe there are still Xavier fans that don't think making the tournament every year is realistic. Yes, there are going to be 1-2 seasons per decade where weird things just happen, but 80-90% of the time is very realistic.

I just don't get this mentality. People act like it's still 1989.

It’s going to take a while under the new revenue share format for me to feel comfortable about Xavier basketball not being spent into irrelevance by the Big 10 / SEC. There’s no reality where players making $2M+ in college is sustainable for Xavier.

As for next year? I’m incredibly underwhelmed by Pitino’s work in the portal thus far. He doesn’t have a single top-100 commit in the portal, and a lot of these guys either look like role players or guys who will need to show they can hoop at the high major level. There’s still time, but I’m not a huge fan of what I’ve seen so far.

[GoMuskies]

I think I'm with Drudy. I'll let you know how I think Pitino did in the portal sometime in mid November, because that's the first time I'll have any idea.

[D-West & PO-Z]

I can answer that. The program is sufficiently resourced and has the necessary elements to make the tournament every year. Period.

Doesn’t matter which year, which coach, which players.

If you stratify all the D1 teams you basically can assume that of the 68 total bids about 32 of them are auto bids. 5-7 of those auto bids will go to multi-bid leagues. The premier multi bid leagues have about 70 teams total. Add in the MWC that has inched their way up the ladder some and will (between them and the “new” Pac12) continue to get 2-3 at large bids a year. Let’s say there are around 80 teams fighting for around 36 total at large bids.

All you need to go is finish in the top 50% among those 80 teams to feel safely in. Is that too much to ask? Is that too much to expect?

I say 9/10 years in the dance. I’ll accept a year with circumstances here and there.

But our DOWN years need to be the years where we are 8/9/10 years.

We just finished a stretch of 7 years with 2 tourney appearances, one of which was a PIG seed. That does NOT meet expectations. at all.

We need t big time bounce back season next year. To reemerge on the scene as an annual threat to make a run.

Recency is huge. We were a 1 seed once. Remember that? Seemed kinda like yesterday cause I can recall the level of excitement I had. But it was 8 years ago. Nobody else remembers. We get ZERO dividends from that.

We have a LONG road ahead of us. We were on the doorstep of a FF. We just had a reset. Need a big year next year

Solid answer/comment Hett. I totally agree.

X has the resources. A coach should be able to get this program to the dance just about every year.

[Xavier]

I think I'm with Drudy. I'll let you know how I think Pitino did in the portal sometime in mid November, because that's the first time I'll have any idea.

Exactly. Pitino transfer Tonje was ranked 297 portal transfer, became an All American. Quincy I thought wasn’t top 100 either. I hope he recruits to his style- don’t sacrifice the theme (disruptive defense) for portal rankings.

[drudy23]

The best damn player (Clayton) in the country (arguably) started at Iona.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Yeah portal rankings mean very little. I thinks that’s been proven over the last 4+ years.

[MHettel]

I don’t have any issue with the portal work so far. But it’s the next 5 that will define this roster.

If we had landed 5 obvious starters so far, we might all be saying that the depth pieces mean less and as a result we can grade this class based on what we have so far. Conversely, if some of the guys we DO have turn out to be depth guys and we close the portal season with a couple bona fide starters then we can still end up in that same exact spot by having done it differently.

We need several more pieces. We’re not down. The next 4-5 guys will define this class and really our prospects for next March will be known this May.

[xu82]

How can we build incentives into this? Hit the game winner tonight and make $2 MIL!

[webxu]

[QUOTE=MHettel;803355]

Recency is huge. We were a 1 seed once. Remember that? Seemed kinda like yesterday cause I can recall the level of excitement I had. But it was 8 years ago. Nobody else remembers. We get ZERO dividends from that.

This.. wasnt that long ago that Washington was a 1 seed also and now look at them.

[Xville]

Swartz will no longer visit x this weekend. Could that be good news on tru Washington, or did he get an offer he can’t refuse?

[bleedXblue]

Yeah, you never know. I think the visit scheduled by Swartz may have forced Washington to make a decision......

[xukeith]

Yeah, you never know. I think the visit scheduled by Swartz may have forced Washington to make a decision......

we all hope so.

[Xavier]

Trilly said it was canceled from Xavier’s side.

[Xville]

Trilly said it was canceled from Xavier’s side.

That's gotta be good news. Either Tru and/or Pozzatto gotta be, right?

[drudy23]

That's gotta be good news. Either Tru and/or Pozzatto gotta be, right?

Let's hope for some news today.

[GIMMFD]

Yeah portal rankings mean very little. I thinks that’s been proven over the last 4+ years.

Or this year with Florida being a national champion without a single top 100 recruit... though I guess transfer portal doesn't necessarily count there.

[Xville]

Let's hope for some news today.

I’d think if it’s pozzato or tru we will hear something by end of day tomorrow. Fingers crossed

[Xavier]

When is the dead period over again? Maybe that’s when we start seeing some more commits. By no means am I suggesting Tru is a Muskie but if he is seriously considering moving cross country he might want to see Cintas first.

[Xville]

When is the dead period over again? Maybe that’s when we start seeing some more commits. By no means am I suggesting Tru is a Muskie but if he is seriously considering moving cross country he might want to see Cintas first.

I think it opens back up on Friday

[Xavier]

Looks like X gets a back up, project type center. Athletic 7’0 rim protector. Another sophomore. As of now it seems like the 5 is going to be defensive backbone, pick and roll/lob offensive guy.

https://x.com/247hshoops/status/1909808118881542371?s=46&t=KSvFnm-Lpouy3B6BA2rQBg

I did see a report from Trilly that Tru might be leaning to Miami, I think X is kind of building an ok roster that’s young with upside. Of those guys a core will emerge for the future. I’d guess not a lot of $$ spent, so I think it’s slowly going to shape into a solid roster with the $ remaining

[GoMuskies]

Looks like X gets a back up, project type center. Athletic 7’0 rim protector. Another sophomore. As of now it seems like the 5 is going to be defensive backbone, pick and roll/lob offensive guy.

https://x.com/247hshoops/status/1909808118881542371?s=46&t=KSvFnm-Lpouy3B6BA2rQBg

Hmm. Well, you can't teach height.

[XUBison]

Looks like X gets a back up, project type center. Athletic 7’0 rim protector. Another sophomore. As of now it seems like the 5 is going to be defensive backbone, pick and roll/lob offensive guy.

https://x.com/247hshoops/status/1909808118881542371?s=46&t=KSvFnm-Lpouy3B6BA2rQBg …

I read a tweet that this is the fifth we’ve picked up in the portal. Wright, Filip, kid from UVA, now N’Diaye from UNLV. Who am I missing? We need a running log. Maybe someone less lazy than I will take on this challenge.

[Xavier]

We picked up two guys from NM.

[XUBison]

We picked up two guys from NM.

Yep, I forgot Milicevic. If nothing else, looks like we might have more height and length than in recent years.

[MHettel]

Hmm. Well, you can't teach height.

Rim protector. Haven’t had one like this in…..ever?

Dude doesn’t score. And I don’t care. He and the UVA guy will be a very different look for us. Purely defense and rebounding guys.

Not sure how the hell we plan to score next year, but the interior should have a lid on it.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Looks like X gets a back up, project type center. Athletic 7’0 rim protector. Another sophomore. As of now it seems like the 5 is going to be defensive backbone, pick and roll/lob offensive guy.

https://x.com/247hshoops/status/1909808118881542371?s=46&t=KSvFnm-Lpouy3B6BA2rQBg

I did see a report from Trilly that Tru might be leaning to Miami, I think X is kind of building an ok roster that’s young with upside. Of those guys a core will emerge for the future. I’d guess not a lot of $$ spent, so I think it’s slowly going to shape into a solid roster with the $ remaining

We certainly won’t have a size problem next year. Hope 2 of these big guys can make a jump. Young big men usually struggle the most as freshmen. I definitely like the upside.

[xukeith]

Ok so another big commits. Do these guys foul a bunch too? That is what I am used to with X bigs.

[Xville]

Don’t know if any one of them will be any good but at least we aren’t going to be pushed around next year.

Pitino mentioned in his press conference that retention is going to be important. With four guys already that are only going to be sophomores, I'd say so.

[Caveat]

It’s very clear that Pitino is prioritizing defense first in the transfer portal thus far. That’s not something Xavier has historically worried a ton about — the usual profile of a Xavier player the last 15-20 years has been “just score more than you let in.” In the portal era, this may be the way forward when offense is priced so high.

I get it — but your downside potential is enormous when you don’t have guys on the floor who can go get buckets.

[Xville]

It’s very clear that Pitino is prioritizing defense first in the transfer portal thus far. That’s not something Xavier has historically worried a ton about — the usual profile of a Xavier player the last 15-20 years has been “just score more than you let in.” In the portal era, this may be the way forward when offense is priced so high.

I get it — but your downside potential is enormous when you don’t have guys on the floor who can go get buckets.

Got about 5-6 spots left I'd assume. With that, I'd expect to start seeing some guards/wings over the next week or two come into the fold. Washington, Pozzatto, Carroll all out there. We get two of those guys and I'll start to feel pretty damn good...at the least we will have a nice mix. All about if they can become a team at that point.

[murray87]

I know it's kind of a greatest hits reel but the clips of N'Diaye on the court are pretty impressive. Moves around the court very well, comes off screens etc. Not some immobile lump like other big men.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Saw a couple tweets from some UNLV accounts very disappointed to lose him. Doesn’t mean much in the grand scheme of things but better than the alternative.

Pitino already had it out there that he expects the roster to be complete by June 1. That’s an eternity away. Now maybe it happens sooner than that but it’s just a reminder to all of us that there are still a lot of moving parts and additions to be made.

[Xville]

Watched the last All-in episode...most of it made me want to throw shit at the screen, but the ending with Pitino sitting down like a freaking Don saying "Let's get to work" was fucking awesome.

[Xavier]

I don’t think I can watch it.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Surprisingly I have not kept up with any of these after the 1st episode. I was excited for it and watched the first but fell behind. Then I guess with the rough start to season I wasn’t excited to watch but then I was planning to binge them all at some point but now I can’t imagine going back to watch any of them.

[bleedXblue]

Would love to be a fly on the wall when the coaching staff is recruiting guys....especially the ones with 3 years left and haven't shown a whole lot at the D1 level yet. Is the message, we're investing in you and know that with hard work we can develop you over the next 2-3 years? Stick with us and trust the process and we will trust in you? Have to be building in and underlining the commitment and loyalty now, so that its rewarded later?

[xu82]

Would love to be a fly on the wall when the coaching staff is recruiting guys....especially the ones with 3 years left and haven't shown a whole lot at the D1 level yet. Is the message, we're investing in you and know that with hard work we can develop you over the next 2-3 years? Stick with us and trust the process and we will trust in you? Have to be building in and underlining the commitment and loyalty now, so that its rewarded later?

….or do they leave for a dollar more next year? That’s how it feels.

[GoMuskies]

….or do they leave for a dollar more next year? That’s how it feels.

Feels like it would take at least tree fiddy.

[xavbball]

Or this year with Florida being a national champion without a single top 100 recruit... though I guess transfer portal doesn't necessarily count there.

It's pretty crazy. Here's a look at the Florida players who played in the championship and where they were ranked coming out of high school:

- Walter Clayton Jr.: Unranked
- Alijah Martin: Unranked
- Will Richard: #330
- Alex Condon: #214
- Rueben Chinyelu: #128
- Thomas Haugh: #192
- Micah Handlogten: Unranked
- Denzel Aberdeen: #150


And the rest of the roster?
- 0 top-100 recruits
- 0 four-star recruits
- 0 McDonald's All-Americans

Transfer portal rankings:
- Walter Clayton Jr.: #69
- Micah Handlogten: #29
- Sam Alexis: #109
- Will Richard: #46
- Rueben Chinyelu: #104
- Alijah Martin: #129

Their highest-rated transfer was #29, who averaged just 13 minutes and 2.6ppg this season. Lost playing time to Alex Condon, a developmental prospect.

Florida was also in the bottom half of the SEC in NIL spending.

So this was a team with no blue-chip recruits, limited NIL firepower, and a clear focus on player development…and they just won the national championship.

[bleedXblue]

….or do they leave for a dollar more next year? That’s how it feels.

I have a very good friend who went to Purdue. He says Painter has NIL where they offer increases based on performance and even have a schedule of how much of an increase each player will get each year. Its working for them.....

[IM4X]

Watched the last All-in episode...most of it made me want to throw shit at the screen, but the ending with Pitino sitting down like a freaking Don saying "Let's get to work" was fucking awesome.

I’ll say it again: They really need to change the name. I’m pretty sure every X fan now feels a bit sick in their stomach when they read or hear “All In.” Thanks Sean!

Maybe I’ll just jump ahead to the end with Pitino.

[MHettel]

247 sports is showing that Tru Washington is 100% Miami.

Some of the other guys that are committed don’t show a %, so maybe that just means it’s their prediction and it’s not yet announced?

[94GRAD]

247 sports is showing that Tru Washington is 100% Miami.

Some of the other guys that are committed don’t show a %, so maybe that just means it’s their prediction and it’s not yet announced?

https://x.com/TiptonEdits/status/1910072211999727969

[Xville]

Damn. Makes me wonder why Swartz isn’t visiting now. Lots of time but need some guys who can put the ball in the basket outside of wright

[xuphan]

https://x.com/TiptonEdits/status/1910072211999727969

We couldn’t get Dent or Tru but at least we got the couple points and couple boards a game bigs from New Mexico. Got to keep positive that we will finish this portal strong.

[Xavier]

There’s a ton of talent out there, and more going to the portal every day. I’m not too worried about it.

Tre had family connections to the Miami coaching staff.

[xuphan]

There’s a ton of talent out there, and more going to the portal every day. I’m not too worried about it.

Tre had family connections to the Miami coaching staff.

I’d be a bit concerned though there is still time left in the portal. I was honestly hoping for more impact guys at this stage of the portal given that we were building a completely new rosters and had a lot to offer incoming players. We have brought in one guy who averaged more than 10 points a game and that is it. We have brought in talented yet raw bigs who yes bring much needed height but have underwhelming stats. Portal is not over and hopefully we get some offensive impact guys soon but it is starting to make me nervous that we are throwing away next year to build for the following year. Very risky strategy with these players being moved around so much by agents to get them the top dollar.

[Three Point Pete]

Last time I checked, A J Storr still available. He can probably go for 800K.
He has BE experience, at Whisky was 2nd team B1G and nobody seems to be after him.

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[drudy23]

As much as we want to think "we're building for the future", the future in the NIL world is right now. Even if you have success, guys are going to move, it's just the nature of the beast in chasing more money. Without some type of rule change, that's what it's going to be.

You can't assume a 3-4 year plan anymore. It has to be "right now". It's just icing on the cake if most stick around.

The guys that perform are going to seek an elevated pay day, and the guys that don't you may not want to even stick around. It's an annual re-build unless you start offering something that's unique and progressive, that's not cash, that no one else does.

It's not that much different than the annual decisions we all think about in terms of looking for a new company. It's more than money, but money is probably most important, especially when you're younger, and doubley especially since they have agents.

Someone is going to have to build some rules and guardrails, but who and when? At this point, I'm not even sure who would be responsible for that as it seems the NCAA has lost complete control.

Plenty of impact guys still out there.

[MHettel]

I’m not concerned that we didn’t get Washington. I looked at his stats and when considering his role on this team as a likely #1 or #2 scorer I had some concerns about his offensive output and efficiency. I know he was “behind” Dent, but his overall shooting % was low 40s and from 3 he was low 30s. He didn’t get to the line much and just didn’t fit that mold of Boum / Quincy / Conwell that we’ve relied on.

I do believe Wright is penciled in at SG. But we need a some more scoring, that’s for sure.

Polazza (sp?) sure has a heck of a highlight reel. He seems like he’d be a great pickup for SF. But yeah, still some more scoring needed and another PG. obviously we will get another PG and who that is should help us get a read on whether Anderson is the starter.

[Xville]

Maybe grasping at straws here but saw Pozzatto followed A Robinson yesterday on X. He'd be a huge addition and having a 6'7 wing with athleticism may have us all forget about that Swain guy

[murray87]

Random question that's portal related. Once a guy like Swain enters and then commits to TX, does he immediately leave X or does he go through the motions of finishing the semester? I remember when going to class was important, sorry Sister Rose!

[Xville]

Random question that's portal related. Once a guy like Swain enters and then commits to TX, does he immediately leave X or does he go through the motions of finishing the semester? I remember when going to class was important, sorry Sister Rose!

I doubt these guys even go to class any more in the traditional sense. My guess is that everything is done online. Could be wrong...maybe someone that has graduated in the least few years could substantiate that, but that's my assumption in today's world. With that said, I'd think he'd finish out the semester? But i dunno.

[GreatWhiteNorth]

Does a player has to pass the courses to maintain the scholarship and play in the team ?

[xu82]

Every offseason has become the equivalent of picking a new team at the Y, with the best guys going to the highest bidder. I don’t feel very connected to a team built that way.