Saw the last 15 minutes. That makes me an expert, right?
1. Ben picking up his 3rd and 4th really seemed to negatively impact the game. UConn bigs are too big for Royce the freshman.
2. MU guards kept getting downhill. UConn kept blocking their shots during that game changing run for UConn.
3. Shaka needed that TO earlier.
4. Joplin and Kam show. Needed a little more help.
5. UConn at home is similar to SJU at home. Aggressiveness is rewarded.
6. Passion was there. 3 point shooting, alas, was not.
7. Zaide for Chase at crunch time.
8. UConn forced the switch. Split second of confusion. Dagger.
0/16threes for players not named Joplin. Ridiculous
Ben having to go to the bench flipped the game.
Would've liked Chase in. More aggressive attacking.
1 and 2 directly related.
5 makes little sense to me. Marquette was very aggressive all game attacking the rim.
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 05, 2025, 10:06:38 PM0/19 threes for players not named Joplin. Ridiculous
Yup. Hard to win games that way.
If not making threes, Marq just doesn't have the horses against a team like Uconn
Can't fault the effort. Even in the last 30 seconds thought we had a chance to steal it.
Can't shoot can't win.....sometimes it's a simple game.
At least scoop can't blame Jop for this one......
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on March 05, 2025, 10:07:44 PMYup. Hard to win games that way.
0/16 actually for everyone but Joplin. Still atrocious
The iso ball offense is horrific. The three point shooting is horrific. The rebounding is horrific. Other than that....good job, good effort.
On the bright side, Miletic had 37 in RM's Sectional Semifinal win over Stevenson.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 05, 2025, 10:07:21 PMBen having to go to the bench flipped the game.
Would've liked Chase in. More aggressive attacking.
Frustrating that his 3rd foul was a dumb one giving up and and one opportunity.
Proud of the way the guys played in a really difficult road environment.
If they played like this on NMD they win that game.
Anyone discouraged by this game going forward isn't paying attention.
The last time I remember seeing Chase in the game was when he was laying on his back grabbing his fingers and whincing.
Honestly, everyone's going to see the L, but we looked a lot better than many previous games. If we could have not given 172 offensive rebounds, we would
Have won
Quote from: wadesworld on March 05, 2025, 10:07:21 PMBen having to go to the bench flipped the game.
Would've liked Chase in. More aggressive attacking.
I wonder if Chase was banged up? There was a play with 4-5 minutes left where three of our guys ended up on the floor (must have all just tripped or something) and he was clearly in pain while laying there.
Quote from: MuMark on March 05, 2025, 10:08:58 PMCan't shoot can't win.....sometimes it's a simple game.
At least scoop can't blame Jop for this one......
Exactly
WINS
The ONLY thing that matters in March NCAA Basketball.
Not effort, heart, growth, pride, etc.
WINS - That's all.
Quote from: jimmybutlerfanatic on March 05, 2025, 10:10:48 PMWINS
The ONLY thing that matters in March NCAA Basketball.
Not effort, heart, growth, etc.
WINS - That's all.
Thanks.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 05, 2025, 10:10:07 PMProud of the way the guys played in a really difficult road environment.
If they played like this on NMD they win that game.
Anyone discouraged by this game going forward isn't paying attention.
Right. It just makes the BET harder.
Quote from: Dish on March 05, 2025, 10:09:24 PMOn the bright side, Miletic had 37 in RM's Sectional Semifinal win over Stevenson.
How many of those pts from mid range?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 05, 2025, 10:10:07 PMProud of the way the guys played in a really difficult road environment.
If they played like this on NMD they win that game.
Anyone discouraged by this game going forward isn't paying attention.
We will be a very tough out in march playing like this. They won't shoot this poorly again.
Quote from: jimmybutlerfanatic on March 05, 2025, 10:10:48 PMWINS
The ONLY thing that matters in March NCAA Basketball.
Not effort, heart, growth, etc.
WINS - That's all.
You realize the season isn't over right?
Quote from: Dish on March 05, 2025, 10:09:24 PMOn the bright side, Miletic had 37 in RM's Sectional Semifinal win over Stevenson.
37 isn't divisible by 3. We need someone who only makes 3's
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 05, 2025, 10:12:04 PMWe will be a very tough out in march playing like this. They won't shoot this poorly again.
That's what I thought after NC State
Quote from: The Sultan on March 05, 2025, 10:11:43 PMRight. It just makes the BET harder.
Playing Xavier won't be fun. But SJU is beatable. They just keep getting lucky in the last 1-2 min of games.
Every game since February to top 5 big east teams has been a painful loss. it's hard to think couldn't pull one of these UConn games.. @ CU @nova
@ST John's games out but here we are. Saturday last chance to show something
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 05, 2025, 10:12:04 PMWe will be a very tough out in march playing like this. They won't shoot this poorly again.
We shoot this poorly with alarming frequency
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 05, 2025, 10:10:07 PMProud of the way the guys played in a really difficult road environment.
If they played like this on NMD they win that game.
Anyone discouraged by this game going forward isn't paying attention.
Yeah. Just gotta make SOME shots.
Quote from: MUEng92 on March 05, 2025, 10:12:24 PM37 isn't divisible by 3. We need someone who only makes 3's
34 from fadeaways from the elbow ideally.
Hard to win when you shoot that many threes and brick almost all of them. I fear this season will not go much longer because, to state the obvious, the 3 pt shooting is a huge weakness. How open do Stevie and Chase need to be? Kam is not a very good shooter from 3 off the bounce.
MU played hard and they're playing better again. Very nice games for Kam and Jop. Some spectacular Kam plays. Played hard on D but got killed on the glass again.
Parham and Owens really need to hit the weights off-season. Parham lost rebounds due to lack of strength.
Better team won.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 05, 2025, 10:12:09 PMYou realize the season isn't over right?
You realize they haven't beaten a tournament caliber team in two months right?
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 05, 2025, 10:12:04 PMWe will be a very tough out in march playing like this. They won't shoot this poorly again.
They probably will shoot this poorly again
pretty much clinches a tie for 4th & 5th with Xavier (who is playing much better ball than MU right now)...
Quote from: The Sultan on March 05, 2025, 10:12:09 PMYou realize the season isn't over right?
3 games away from potentially being over after tonight though.
Team can't shoot yet the offense does the same stupid crap all year that relies on hitting the 3. It isn't a slump. This is not a good shooting team, yet we run an offense where you would think we are a 3 point juggernaut
Quote from: MurphysTillClose on March 05, 2025, 10:14:04 PMYou realize they haven't beaten a tournament caliber team in two months right?
OK. And? Are you suggesting we just fold up the tents and call it a season?
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 05, 2025, 10:12:04 PMWe will be a very tough out in march playing like this. They won't shoot this poorly again.
I assume this should be in teal?
Quote from: jimmybutlerfanatic on March 05, 2025, 10:14:55 PM3 games away from potentially being over after tonight though.
Huh?
Even if we won tonight we would be 3 games from potentially being season over. That's for every team in the country actually.
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 05, 2025, 10:12:04 PMWe will be a very tough out in march playing like this. They won't shoot this poorly again.
What have you been watching this year?
Quote from: warriors141 on March 05, 2025, 10:15:04 PMTeam can't shoot yet the offense does the same stupid crap all year that relies on hitting the 3. It isn't a slump. This is not a good shooting team, yet we run an offense where you would think we are a 3 pint juggernaut
I'm sill a three pint juggernaut, but only on the weekends.
Quote from: MUEng92 on March 05, 2025, 10:12:24 PM37 isn't divisible by 3. We need someone who only makes 3's
He was 3 of 7 from beyond the arc.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 05, 2025, 10:16:25 PMI'm sill a three pint juggernaut, but only on the weekends.
Damn, beat me to it
It's nice to see COLE make a return to this board. I thought that had been thrown to the curb after the Wojo years. 👀
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 05, 2025, 10:08:41 PMCan't fault the effort. Even in the last 30 seconds thought we had a chance to steal it.
Yes - until Gold left Karaban in the most head scratching moment of the evening other than water leaking on to the effing court.
Is making the round orange thingy go through the circle thingy part of "playing well" or does that not really matter?
Quote from: mugrad_89 on March 05, 2025, 10:17:06 PMIt's nice to see COLE make a return to this board. I thought that had been thrown to the curb after the Wojo years. 👀
WTF are you talking about?
Quote from: The Sultan on March 05, 2025, 10:17:44 PMWTF are you talking about?
Reading these comments, I'm just wondering why the team doesn't decide to just forfeit the rest of the season because they obviously have no chance. 🙄
Quote from: Dish on March 05, 2025, 10:16:35 PMHe was 3 of 7 from beyond the arc.
He shot 45% from 3 as a junior .....not sure what it is this season but in the games I've watched it has certainly been over 40%
Ps he made the game tying 3 pointer to send it into OT tonight
Quote from: The Sultan on March 05, 2025, 10:15:05 PMOK. And? Are you suggesting we just fold up the tents and call it a season?
No just responding to you getting all defensive and responding when some may have something negative to say - which is warranted given the level of play. Sorry you don't like it :(
Quote from: Zog from Margo on March 05, 2025, 10:13:29 PMKam is not a very good shooter from 3 off the bounce.
I don't know why we don't run sets to free up Kam for some catch and release shots and try to get him going. Seems like most of his 3s are off the dribble.
A couple too many ill-advised 3-point shots either early in the shot clock or without getting a paint touch.
Refs allowing a physical game probably didn't help us.
We have to grab those 50/50 balls. Too many were there for the taking and somehow ended up with UConn.
And the obvious, our 3-point shooting was horrendous.
Quote from: Johnny B on March 05, 2025, 10:13:03 PMEvery game since February to top 5 big east teams has been a painful loss. it's hard to think couldn't pull one of these UConn games.. @ CU @nova @ST John's games out but here we are. Saturday last chance to show something
I think ending the season 2-6 against the top 4 big East teams is a real kick in the nuts after the results of the non-con
They fold there tents in the last few minutes whenever they play a good team, UConn needed a three and they got it. Concerned about the lack of athletic bigs, Ben and Parham are not quick twitch athletes so they have trouble rebounding. Also, coming to the conclusion that Owens has a lot of growing physically to play at this level, so skinny. Tre Norman, what can you say, out of his league
Quote from: MurphysTillClose on March 05, 2025, 10:22:26 PMNo just responding to you getting all defensive and responding when some may have something negative to say - which is warranted given the level of play. Sorry you don't like it :(
No it wasn't that it was negative. It was nonsensical. This is still the regular season. So saying that "the only thing that matters is wins," is just an inaccurate statement.
We lost. And still have games to play.
39 UConn rebounds to 26. 16 UConn assists to 5.
Haven't seen the second-chance points but I think I know which way it wants to go.
Love the effort, but when's the last time we beat a good team (not going to mention
a pulse)?
I love what Shaka's done here, he's exceeded my expectations yearly, but I can't help feeling that he doesn't understand the value of a rebound.
The assist discrepancy is related to the type of offenses the teams ran. I love MU but UConn certainly had more easy buckets than we did.
I want these seniors to go out with a bang, not a whimper, but second weekend is looking
harder to get to than I thought (crapshoot).
Shaka wanted to make it to the under 8:00 minute TV timeout and save the TO for the end of the game. In retrospect, should've called a TO earlier. But I agree with his strategy in real time. We just couldn't buy a bucket or a rebound during that stretch.
It's hard to imagine this team will do well in the tourney with their 3PT shooting problems. Perhaps they'll suddenly get hot from beyond the arc.
Are any of the incoming recruits good shooters or rebounders?
https://x.com/painttouches/status/1897500541397209587?s=61&t=6XPB8f4sAKmJIzxgMcsCjw
Quote from: Afroman on March 05, 2025, 10:25:57 PMAre any of the incoming recruits good shooters or rebounders?
No
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 05, 2025, 10:10:07 PMProud of the way the guys played in a really difficult road environment.
If they played like this on NMD they win that game.
Anyone discouraged by this game going forward isn't paying attention.
I'm not discouraged by tonight itself.
I'm discouraged by the fact this veteran team struggles to close on the road.
I'm discouraged by the fact that we keep getting bludgeoned on the glass by good teams but the only answer seems to be hope one of the redshirt bigs eventually gets there.
Quote from: warriors141 on March 05, 2025, 10:15:04 PMTeam can't shoot yet the offense does the same stupid crap all year that relies on hitting the 3. It isn't a slump. This is not a good shooting team, yet we run an offense where you would think we are a 3 point juggernaut
This is how the roster is constructed. It's live and die by the 3 at this point. Not much else to do.
I'm discouraged by the fact that Marquette hasn't beaten a tournament-caliber team since January 3rd
Quote from: Afroman on March 05, 2025, 10:25:57 PMAre any of the incoming recruits good shooters or rebounders?
Militec is but when he gets here I'm sure he will probably suck
Quote from: Afroman on March 05, 2025, 10:25:57 PMAre any of the incoming recruits good shooters or rebounders?
The question is do they have a player next year that can create there own shot!
Kam does not trust his jump shot at all. This is essentially our biggest issue. He was great in other ways today, but it's totally inexplicable that a very solid shooter, who has made big jumpers in the past, has completely lost all confidence in his shot. He easily could have gotten clean wide open 3's down the stretch of this game. Now like everyone he was always more comfortable in catch and shoots, but his J is frankly gone. I've recently watched many of our past games and it's night and day how he used to shoot the basketball. It's a total enigma to me and upsetting beyond words.
Nm.
Quote from: Johnny B on March 05, 2025, 10:28:43 PMThis is how the roster is constructed. It's live and die by the 3 at this point. Not much else to do.
Take five fewer threes and drive the hoop instead we win. Chase seems to be hesitant to drive recently.
Quote from: BCHoopster on March 05, 2025, 10:24:27 PMThey fold there tents in the last few minutes whenever they play a good team, UConn needed a three and they got it. Concerned about the lack of athletic bigs, Ben and Parham are not quick twitch athletes so they have trouble rebounding. Also, coming to the conclusion that Owens has a lot of growing physically to play at this level, so skinny. Tre Norman, what can you say, out of his league
Tre Norman is absolutely in the discussion of the worst scholarship player in program history. Tonight consisted of throwing up another brick, turnover, and beat off the dribble by Diarra for a layup. He was beat on another possession that would have been a basket had it not been for a bad pass. He has no business playing at this level.
Quote from: IL Warrior on March 05, 2025, 10:29:23 PMI'm discouraged by the fact that Marquette hasn't beaten a tournament-caliber team since January 3rd
Anyone who's being honest is too.
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 05, 2025, 10:32:37 PMTre Norman is absolutely in the discussion of the worst scholarship player in program history. Tonight consisted of throwing up another brick, turnover, and beat off the dribble by Diarra for a layup. He was beat on another possession that would have been a basket had it not been for a bad pass. He has no business playing at this level.
You obviously weren't around during the Dukiet years.
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 05, 2025, 10:33:44 PMAnyone who's being honest is too.
Winning key games against quality teams at this point in the season does not matter. Important scoop lesson.
Quote from: MurphysTillClose on March 05, 2025, 10:35:14 PMWinning key games against quality teams at this point in the season does not matter. Important scoop lesson.
Good thing no one said that.
Well, at least they played with violence and had plenty of EGB plays!!!
Quote from: IL Warrior on March 05, 2025, 10:29:23 PMI'm discouraged by the fact that Marquette hasn't beaten a tournament-caliber team since January 3rd
Yea, I was slightly optimistic that we were turning a corner. This game was a real kick in the nuts. As low as I've been on a Shaka team...really need that win for some confidence against St. John's
Quote from: IL Warrior on March 05, 2025, 10:29:23 PMI'm discouraged by the fact that Marquette hasn't beaten a tournament-caliber team since January 3rd
Yeah, the second half of the season certainly didn't live up to the hype created by the first half. Let's beat the pee out of the Johnnies and see what happens in the post season.
Quote from: Judge Smails on March 05, 2025, 10:25:31 PMShaka wanted to make it to the under 8:00 minute TV timeout and save the TO for the end of the game. In retrospect, should've called a TO earlier. But I agree with his strategy in real time. We just couldn't buy a bucket or a rebound during that stretch.
It's hard to imagine this team will do well in the tourney with their 3PT shooting problems. Perhaps they'll suddenly get hot from beyond the arc.
Bad shooters don't "suddenly get hot."
Quote from: jesmu84 on March 05, 2025, 10:23:33 PMI think ending the season 2-6 against the top 4 big East teams is a real kick in the nuts after the results of the non-con
Don't forget the loss to Xavier at home.
Quote from: Zog from Margo on March 05, 2025, 10:34:29 PMYou obviously weren't around during the Dukiet years.
I sure was. John Leurck. Anthony Candelino. Joe Krysiak. He's as bad as any from back then.
Quote from: ATL MU Warrior on March 05, 2025, 10:13:11 PMWe shoot this poorly with alarming frequency
I agree with the point, but **technically** this is the worst MU has shot since NC State.
Worst this year:
@UConn (L) - 3 of 22 = 14%
Depaul (W) - 4 of 25 = 16%
Butler (W) - 6 of 30 = 20%
Xavier (L) - 8 of 29 = 28%
Central Michigan (W) - 10 of 36 = 28%
The offense doesn't work if 1 of the 2 things it's designed to do is broken.
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 05, 2025, 10:32:37 PMTre Norman is absolutely in the discussion of the worst scholarship player in program history. Tonight consisted of throwing up another brick, turnover, and beat off the dribble by Diarra for a layup. He was beat on another possession that would have been a basket had it not been for a bad pass. He has no business playing at this level.
Symir was worse but is a similar type of skillset to Tre. Still think Tre could find a role in this program. Needs to be a pisser on the offensive glass or something. Sort of concerning Shaka wanted to keep Symir though lol
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 05, 2025, 10:39:47 PMSymir was worse but is a similar type of skillset to Tre. Still think Tre could find a role in this program. Needs to be a pisser on the offensive glass or something. Sort of concerning Shaka wanted to keep Symir though lol
I am only big pisser on the same days I'm a three pint juggernaut.
We've lost our composure many times this season which really shouldn't happen from an experienced team. It's okay to be angry. I would imagine all of our players are furious tonight. Harness the anger and play with a refuse to lose mentality on Saturday.
Quote from: bradforster on March 05, 2025, 10:37:18 PMBad shooters don't "suddenly get hot."
Didn't they just make almost 20 threes in a game last week?
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 05, 2025, 10:39:47 PMSymir was worse but is a similar type of skillset to Tre. Still think Tre could find a role in this program. Needs to be a pisser on the offensive glass or something. Sort of concerning Shaka wanted to keep Symir though lol
What's more concerning is Shaka still puts him in there every game. He yanked him quick tonight, but begs the question why does he even get in still?
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 05, 2025, 10:39:47 PMSymir was worse but is a similar type of skillset to Tre. Still think Tre could find a role in this program. Needs to be a pisser on the offensive glass or something. Sort of concerning Shaka wanted to keep Symir though lol
As if he would publicly say he wanted him to transfer
If every player performed as well as The Worst Player In Marquette Basketball History, we'd have won by 15.
After we cut it to 1, I told my text chain, "We need to defend well - but anything is ok as long as we don't give up a wide-open 3." We needed the shooter to be KaraBad. Unfortunately he wasn't.
I hope Chase is OK. Desperately need him.
Liam McNeeley was mostly a non-factor. Needed an APB to even find him in the second half.
Gold was doing great until the fouls. Total killers. Royce is gonna be a good player, but he's not quite ready for Storrs kind of intensity.
We needed to turn them over more and get a few easy breakaway buckets to overcome our bad shooting.
UConn had no first-half FTs, so you know Hurley was beyotching big-time before the second half.
We're playing well. I remain encouraged. We're gonna beat St. John's on Saturday to launch a few fun weeks!
Quote from: Johnny B on March 05, 2025, 10:45:46 PMAs if he would publicly say he wanted him to transfer
Well, it was my understanding he was already in the portal and we were still pursuing him but probably about the least important thing to be discussing so I'll just let it go.
Quote from: warriors141 on March 05, 2025, 10:15:04 PMTeam can't shoot yet the offense does the same stupid crap all year that relies on hitting the 3. It isn't a slump. This is not a good shooting team, yet we run an offense where you would think we are a 3 point juggernaut
Did you actually watch the game? Because it sure doesn't sound like it.
Run some plays that free Ben for a three
I have become weary of our offense. Too much standing around while someone dribbles would love to see more movement off the ball particularly since we can't hit jumpers
It's getting a bit late for moral victories so pardon my French, but this was one of the better Marquette performances I've seen that resulted in a loss in quite some time.
Sure they missed a lot of 3s, got out-rebounded and couldn't get their hands on a lot of loose balls, but they were relentless at attacking the rim all game.
They didn't settle for 3 and they played tough, played with a lot of poise and took their time attacking on offense. They slowed down a bit and weren't sped up.
The game was there for them if they could just make a few damn shots but alas, this game requires shooting better than 13% from 3 and grabbing the f'ing ball.
Beat StJ twice in one week and ride that confidence to the E8
Most of the posts in this thread are embarrassing.
In spite of the loss, if you can't see that the team is playing much better I'd question how far your head is up your own ass.
I expect to beat St. John's on Saturday and then we'll see what happens from there.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 05, 2025, 10:57:33 PMMost of the posts in this thread are embarrassing.
In spite of the loss, if you can't see that the team is playing much better I'd question how far your head is up your own ass.
I expect to beat St. John's on Saturday and then we'll see what happens from there.
Do you think the team has played better during the conference games vs the non-con?
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 05, 2025, 10:31:41 PMTake five fewer threes and drive the hoop instead we win. Chase seems to be less hesitant to drive recently.
It's really not more complicated than this.
At halftime, if Shaka simply says, "Zero 3s in the 2nd half". We win! Drive the ball, and get to the line! When we do it, we are very good at it.
Shooting 41 3s during the Providence game was the dumbest thing we couldve done. We can't shoot the 3 period. It leads to way too many empty possessions.
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 05, 2025, 10:38:58 PMI sure was. John Leurck. Anthony Candelino. Joe Krysiak. He's as bad as any from back then.
No offense, but that's nuts. Krysiak was really bad. How about Don Smolinski?
Norman didn't play well tonight and his jump shot is a mess, but he's only a sophomore and he's a decent defender.
Quote from: jesmu84 on March 05, 2025, 10:59:08 PMDo you think the team has played better during the conference games vs the non-con?
On the whole, no. But that seems pretty irrelevant. I like what I've seen since the Nova game.
Quote from: 94Warrior on March 05, 2025, 10:59:50 PMIt's really not more complicated than this.
At halftime, if Shaka simply says, "Zero 3s in the 2nd half". We win! Drive the ball, and get to the line! When we do it, we are very good at it.
Shooting 41 3s during the Providence game was the dumbest thing we couldve done. Ws can't shoot period. It leads to way too many empty possessions.
How many 3s did we shoot tonight?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 05, 2025, 11:02:15 PMOn the whole, no. But that seems pretty irrelevant. I like what I've seen since the Nova game.
Zero Q1 wins since December is irrelevant? Honest question
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 05, 2025, 11:02:15 PMOn the whole, no. But that seems pretty irrelevant. I like what I've seen since the Nova game.
Playing teams that would struggle in the A-10. They played okay tonight but let's not kid ourselves, UConn ain't great. We are consistently losing to tournament and bubble teams. Thank goodness for non conference or this team would likely be on wrong side of bubble
Quote from: MurphysTillClose on March 05, 2025, 11:03:38 PMZero Q1 wins since December is irrelevant? Honest question
With context, yes. Part of it coincides with when we clearly weren't playing well and part of it is the schedule. There's also not many Q1 opportunities in this year's iteration of the Big East.
Again, I'm not sure how anyone that's paying attention can't see the change since the Nova game.
Now if we lay a turd at home this Saturday that's a problem.
Quote from: MU82 on March 05, 2025, 10:49:22 PMIf every player performed as well as The Worst Player In Marquette Basketball History, we'd have won by 15.
After we cut it to 1, I told my text chain, "We need to defend well - but anything is ok as long as we don't give up a wide-open 3." We needed the shooter to be KaraBad. Unfortunately he wasn't.
I hope Chase is OK. Desperately need him.
Liam McNeeley was mostly a non-factor. Needed an APB to even find him in the second half.
Gold was doing great until the fouls. Total killers. Royce is gonna be a good player, but he's not quite ready for Storrs kind of intensity.
We needed to turn them over more and get a few easy breakaway buckets to overcome our bad shooting.
UConn had no first-half FTs, so you know Hurley was beyotching big-time before the second half.
We're playing well. I remain encouraged. We're gonna beat St. John's on Saturday to launch a few fun weeks!
Hurley is a great coach but it's honestly laughable that he doesn't get teed up more.
Quote from: warriors141 on March 05, 2025, 11:06:44 PMPlaying teams that would struggle in the A-10. They played okay tonight but let's not kid ourselves, UConn ain't great. We are consistently losing to tournament and bubble teams. Thank goodness for non conference or this team would likely be on wrong side of bubble
I'm not sure you understand what the word "constantly" means.
Quote from: MurphysTillClose on March 05, 2025, 11:03:38 PMZero Q1 wins since December is irrelevant? Honest question
How dare you!
On the whole that was a B- game tonight. Effort was there. Made them miss a bunch. Couldn't corral the ball. Couldn't hit water if they fell out of a boat.
I'd give a similar grade to the games at Creighton and SJU. Problem is that's usually not good enough to beat a good team in their gym.
Quote from: MU82 on March 05, 2025, 10:49:22 PMWe're playing well. I remain encouraged. We're gonna beat St. John's on Saturday to launch a few fun weeks!
Is this like the Letterman gag... He keeps saying it until people start laughing?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 05, 2025, 11:07:32 PMWith context, yes. Part of it coincides with when we clearly weren't playing well and part of it is the schedule. There's also not many Q1 opportunities in this year's iteration of the Big East.
Again, I'm not sure how anyone that's paying attention can't see the change since the Nova game.
Now if we lay a turd at home this Saturday that's a problem.
The number of opportunities is irrelevant when you lose all of them. That's the point. Whether it's 100 or 3, they've lost to every tourney caliber team they've played for a while now. Can we stop with the moral victories on March 5th?
Wait till next year, might be worse unless Shaka lets some kids transfer and works the portal. At least 3 kids can go. But he is to stubborn to do that.
Quote from: MurphysTillClose on March 05, 2025, 11:12:28 PMThe number of opportunities is irrelevant when you lose all of them. That's the point. Whether it's 100 or 3, they've lost to every tourney caliber team they've played for a while now. Can we stop with the moral victories on March 5th?
We've lost very competitive road games to Creighton, SJU, and UConn. No shame in that.
The UConn home game and Nova road game were disappointing.
My question is do you really not see a clear change in the quality of play since the Nova game?
If not, I'm not sure what you're watching.
Quote from: BCHoopster on March 05, 2025, 11:19:38 PMWait till next year, might be worse unless Shaka lets some kids transfer and works the portal. At least 3 kids can go. But he is to stubborn to do that.
You're never going to stop posting the ludicrous line of thinking, huh.
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 05, 2025, 10:38:58 PMI sure was. John Leurck. Anthony Candelino. Joe Krysiak. He's as bad as any from back then.
...and being scolded by Digger Phelps over the PA...on our court!! Oh man that was a dark time.
We were given and earned our best chance to Win at UCONN since 2012 but did not close. Let's close against Saint John's
Quote from: jesmu84 on March 05, 2025, 10:59:08 PMDo you think the team has played better during the conference games vs the non-con?
Of course not. But we've mostly played well lately IMHO.
I choose to be optimistic because that's how I'm wired. I happen to think it's a better way to go through life.
Those who choose to think our team is a warm turd, and are embarrassed, angry or both, whatevs.
During games I get frustrated just like anyone else does. Like everyone else, I very much want MU hoops to be a successful program ... so I'm glad we have a successful program.
Those who think we don't ... we'll agree to disagree.
(BTW, I'm not saying any of those things about you, jes. I don't know how you think.)
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 05, 2025, 11:20:24 PMWe've lost very competitive road games to Creighton, SJU, and UConn. No shame in that.
The UConn home game and Nova road game were disappointing.
My question is do you really not see a clear change in the quality of play since the Nova game?
If not, I'm not sure what you're watching.
I agree with this. They are playing better. We did play tough in those road games. And got beaten by extraordinary shooting in the losses to UConn at home and Villanova on the road.
I am still encouraged. I think our high ranking due to non conference results have had us playing exceptionally motivated teams. MU was the team they needed to beat to bolster their resumes. We are now back to matching other teams intensity without the result we wanted tonight. Could have won if they had hit a couple more shots. Thank goodness the team doesn't have to play on the road in the NCAA tournament.
I really hope they beat St Johns this weekend. It will be a good sign if they do. Need as high of a seed as possible in the NCAA tournament. I still think a second weekend run is a possibility.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on March 06, 2025, 12:32:27 AMThank goodness the team doesn't have to play on the road in the tournament.
Yep. All the whining about us not being able to beat a good team on the road in 2025 ... it's a moot point now.
For me, this is the most infuriating loss we've had all season. McNeeley and Ball were 7 for 28. The fact that minus Jop, we were 0-17 from distance, is unfathomable. And we still could have won this game if we held onto rebs and loose balls. A win Saturday and at least one in the BE tournament is extremely important imo.
In a vacuum, Hurley in his post game presser nailed it. Two really good teams saying with desperation. Exciting, competitive game. What you want to see in a late season conference game.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 05, 2025, 11:20:24 PMWe've lost very competitive road games to Creighton, SJU, and UConn. No shame in that.
The UConn home game and Nova road game were disappointing.
My question is do you really not see a clear change in the quality of play since the Nova game?
If not, I'm not sure what you're watching.
team is playing better. Agreed. MU took care of biz vs bottom feeders and lost a hard fought game to the 2x defending national champ. IF this Saturday and next Thursday are L's, does 'playing better' matter?
Quote from: tower912 on March 05, 2025, 10:05:00 PMSaw the last 15 minutes. That makes me an expert, right?
1. Ben picking up his 3rd and 4th really seemed to negatively impact the game. UConn bigs are too big for Royce the freshman.
2. MU guards kept getting downhill. UConn kept blocking their shots during that game changing run for UConn.
3. Shaka needed that TO earlier.
4. Joplin and Kam show. Needed a little more help.
5. UConn at home is similar to SJU at home. Aggressiveness is rewarded.
6. Passion was there. 3 point shooting, alas, was not.
7. Zaide for Chase at crunch time.
8. UConn forced the switch. Split second of confusion. Dagger.
9. MU needs down low bangers
10. MU needs consistent 3 point shooters
11. MU has flaws that needs lots of help at.
Quote from: MurphysTillClose on March 05, 2025, 10:14:04 PMYou realize they haven't beaten a tournament caliber team in two months right?
That should not matter. Stuff happens.
Quote from: jesmu84 on March 05, 2025, 10:23:33 PMI think ending the season 2-6 against the top 4 big East teams is a real kick in the nuts after the results of the non-con
It is also a patently obvious wake up call that Shaka better recruit some bangers and shooters
Quote from: willie warrior on March 06, 2025, 06:59:49 AM9. MU needs down low bangers
10. MU needs consistent 3 point shooters
11. MU has flaws that needs lots of help at.
down low bangers...awesome band, hey. 🎸
Quote from: tower912 on March 06, 2025, 06:30:09 AMIn a vacuum, Hurley in his post game presser nailed it. Two really good teams saying with desperation. Exciting, competitive game. What you want to see in a late season conference game.
Tired of watching Hurley own MU and UConn outdistancing MU.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 06, 2025, 07:13:09 AMTired of watching Hurley own MU and UConn outdistancing MU.
Don't watch.
MU is 3-6 against the top half of the BE this season. That is not good. I enjoyed the UConn game. It was a tough, physical game that, in the end, was won by the team that played better. UConn's defensive adjustments in the second half were really good. In addition, they killed us on the boards and seemed to get every loose ball. Really good game. Hard to win when you can't shoot.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 05, 2025, 10:44:37 PMDidn't they just make almost 20 threes in a game last week?
Ther only make 3's against teams without a pulse.
I remain optimistic.
Different outcome maybe if we had run a couple sets for Gold threes in the second half.
Quote from: MU82 on March 06, 2025, 12:27:55 AMOf course not. But we've mostly played well lately IMHO.
I choose to be optimistic because that's how I'm wired. I happen to think it's a better way to go through life.
Those who choose to think our team is a warm turd, and are embarrassed, angry or both, whatevs.
During games I get frustrated just like anyone else does. Like everyone else, I very much want MU hoops to be a successful program ... so I'm glad we have a successful program.
Those who think we don't ... we'll agree to disagree.
(BTW, I'm not saying any of those things about you, jes. I don't know how you think.)
I'm amazed at how soon we have forgotten the WOJO years. My only concern is how long Shaka can keep us competitive without going to the transfer portal. I believe we are the only high major still doing that. If I'm wrong, please correct me. It seems that is the direction of college sports.
If it takes five years to judge a coach, Shaka hasn't needed that long - he's far exceeded expectations in his first four, considering where the program was at when he took over. Three of the most talented players we've had (Kolek, OMax, and Chase) were Shaka recruits, and three Wojo guys (Kam, Stevie, and Oso) developed into really good players and leaders under his watch. Joplin followed Shaka from Texas, so he's a special case, too. Shaka obviously loves Jop, but I wonder if he would recruit him now, to Marquette, in 2025.
Once a coach reaches that 5-7 year mark, he's fully entrenched and it's easier to get a feel for what his program truly is. With Wojo, it was a dumpster fire where one or two stars were surrounded by a bunch of turds. With Buzz, it was a house of cards with constant transfers out and lots of drama. With Crean, it was great guards and a maddening inability to land a true, game-changing big.
We're in the Tournament this year, and maybe we'll do well, and maybe we won't, but being in is a lot more fun than the Wojo special. I'm excited to see what Shaka's program will look like in the coming years.
Quote from: Viper on March 06, 2025, 06:56:07 AMteam is playing better. Agreed. MU took care of biz vs bottom feeders and lost a hard fought game to the 2x defending national champ. IF this Saturday and next Thursday are L's, does 'playing better' matter?
The answer to your question is that it will matter. It will be a sign that the team is simply not talented enough or playing well enough to make any noise in the real tournament (despite all the it happened in 77 talk). Although, I would still hold out a sliver of hope that the Big East coaches know how to defend us better than nonconference teams and execute their offense better against our defense. This may give us more of an advantage than we think. I also would hope that we may get a more favorable whistle in the tournament (a long shot, I know).
Bottom line is they do need to prove it. It's the end of the season. Kam Jones is an all American. Hopefully they go on a magical run because there is not an obvious all American walking through that door next year. There is not an obvious 1st or second team all Big East player walking through that door next year. There is not an obvious future cracked sidewalks article or current paint touches article that point to an even remotely good team next year.
Let's enjoy this season while we can and celebrate those seniors Saturday! Go MU!
Quote from: WellsstreetWanderer on March 06, 2025, 08:59:02 AMDifferent outcome maybe if we had run a couple sets for Gold threes in the second half.
It's tough to do that when he's on the bench in foul trouble.
How about drives to the hoops when guys have a clear path from the corner to the basket? We led at halftime after going 13-17 inside of the arc. In the second half we were 9-18. 42 points in the paint total. 6 fewer three attempts in the second half in exchange for drives to the hoop at 50% is six more points (and maybe more if we get fouled, the margin of victory for UConn.
Quote from: Viper on March 06, 2025, 06:56:07 AMteam is playing better. Agreed. MU took care of biz vs bottom feeders and lost a hard fought game to the 2x defending national champ. IF this Saturday and next Thursday are L's, does 'playing better' matter?
UConn may be the 2x national champ but this version isn't close to the level those two teams were. Those UConn squads wouldn't have lost to Seton Hall, Colorado, Dayton or Nova.
One thing I hated, HAAAATED about last night were the possessions where Kam or Chase had Johnson switched onto them at the arc and settled for multiple stepback threes. You could hear the screech as the offense stopped while they dribbled the air out of it. UConn was guarding five out, no rim protection, and MU just stood there.
Quote from: MUfan12 on March 06, 2025, 09:14:26 AMOne thing I hated, HAAAATED about last night were the possessions where Kam or Chase had Johnson switched onto them at the arc and settled for multiple stepback threes. You could hear the screech as the offense stopped while they dribbled the air out of it. UConn was guarding five out, no rim protection, and MU just stood there.
Chase, completely agree.
Kam was struggling to get by Johnson at times. Multiple possessions where Johnson locked him up while he tried to get to the rim. I was good with the step backs. He can make that shot and if he knocks one down it really makes Johnson come up tighter and allows him to blow by easier.
Quote from: BM1090 on March 06, 2025, 09:43:14 AMChase, completely agree.
Kam was struggling to get by Johnson at times. Multiple possessions where Johnson locked him up while he tried to get to the rim. I was good with the step backs. He can make that shot and if he knocks one down it really makes Johnson come up tighter and allows him to blow by easier.
Yep Kam simply needs to hit a couple threes to keep the defenses honest. He hits them and it is a pressure release valve for the offense and honestly gives confidence to the rest of the team. Heavy burden on that young man.
Quote from: BM1090 on March 06, 2025, 09:43:14 AMHe can make that shot and if he knocks one down it really makes Johnson come up tighter and allows him to blow by easier.
He can, but he hasn't shot it off the bounce well this season.
Quote from: MUfan12 on March 06, 2025, 09:54:35 AMHe can, but he hasn't shot it off the bounce well this season.
No doubt. But he's gotta keep shooting those and hit some if we want to make a run
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on March 06, 2025, 09:07:29 AMThere is not an obvious future cracked sidewalks article or current paint touches article that point to an even remotely good team next year.
I find this snippet to be utterly ridiculous.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on March 06, 2025, 09:07:29 AMThe answer to your question is that it will matter. It will be a sign that the team is simply not talented enough or playing well enough to make any noise in the real tournament (despite all the it happened in 77 talk). Although, I would still hold out a sliver of hope that the Big East coaches know how to defend us better than nonconference teams and execute their offense better against our defense. This may give us more of an advantage than we think. I also would hope that we may get a more favorable whistle in the tournament (a long shot, I know).
Bottom line is they do need to prove it. It's the end of the season. Kam Jones is an all American. Hopefully they go on a magical run because there is not an obvious all American walking through that door next year. There is not an obvious 1st or second team all Big East player walking through that door next year. There is not an obvious future cracked sidewalks article or current paint touches article that point to an even remotely good team next year.
Let's enjoy this season while we can and celebrate those seniors Saturday! Go MU!
We weren't supposed to be any good in 2021 or 2022 either.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2025, 11:01:58 AMI find this snippet to be utterly ridiculous.
I hear you and in many ways it is. After the season there will be more time to discuss this. The Paint touches article about Kam was an outstanding case for Kam and damning one for the rest of the team.
I look forward to the statistical breakdowns in the offseason. Development is a real thing. Hopefully there are a couple all Americans or future all Americans on our team next year that I'm not anticipating.
Quote from: BM1090 on March 06, 2025, 11:21:50 AMWe weren't supposed to be any good in 2021 or 2022 either.
.
Yes. And that is why I referred to cracked sidewalks. Before that season started, Brew was sky high on that team and had tons of logic behind it. You could also see way more glimpses of high level talent than you see now. I'll be curious to see the breakdowns and analysis in the offseason. Believe me, I want this to work. But I am not seeing the forest through the trees just yet.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on March 06, 2025, 11:22:20 AMI hear you and in many ways it is. After the season there will be more time to discuss this. The Paint touches article about Kam was an outstanding case for Kam and damning one for the rest of the team.
I think it makes an outstanding case for Kam being the most important player on their team in the Big East. I'm not sure it makes a great case for him being POY.
Of course it would be great if he is...but not some sort of injustice if he isn't.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 06, 2025, 11:30:58 AMI think it makes an outstanding case for Kam being the most important player on their team in the Big East. I'm not sure it makes a great case for him being POY.
Of course it would be great if he is...but not some sort of injustice if he isn't.
Agreed Sultan.
Quote from: Biggie Clausen on March 06, 2025, 09:06:55 AMIf it takes five years to judge a coach, Shaka hasn't needed that long - he's far exceeded expectations in his first four, considering where the program was at when he took over. Three of the most talented players we've had (Kolek, OMax, and Chase) were Shaka recruits, and three Wojo guys (Kam, Stevie, and Oso) developed into really good players and leaders under his watch. Joplin followed Shaka from Texas, so he's a special case, too. Shaka obviously loves Jop, but I wonder if he would recruit him now, to Marquette, in 2025.
Once a coach reaches that 5-7 year mark, he's fully entrenched and it's easier to get a feel for what his program truly is. With Wojo, it was a dumpster fire where one or two stars were surrounded by a bunch of turds. With Buzz, it was a house of cards with constant transfers out and lots of drama. With Crean, it was great guards and a maddening inability to land a true, game-changing big.
We're in the Tournament this year, and maybe we'll do well, and maybe we won't, but being in is a lot more fun than the Wojo special. I'm excited to see what Shaka's program will look like in the coming years.
Shaka has fat outshined Wojo. Pretty low bar, though.
Quote from: bradforster on March 05, 2025, 10:37:18 PMBad shooters don't "suddenly get hot."
Except when they play Marquette
Quote from: willie warrior on March 06, 2025, 12:52:15 PMShaka has fat outshined Wojo. Pretty low bar, though.
I don't know ... I think Shaka is fairly thin.