This season is gone. Minimal to no hope on the development front for much of the roster.
Given it's Christmas time, drop your wish list for next season.
I'll start - Nolan Minessale. Ripping it up for the Tommies this year with flashes last year. Would be great to roster a former Hilltopper as well !
Deciding between staying at St. Thomas or a very big money bag at of course Iowa St
Quote from: panda on December 15, 2025, 11:52:52 AMThis season is gone. Minimal to no hope on the development front for much of the roster.
Given it's Christmas time, drop your wish list for next season.
I'll start - Nolan Minessale. Ripping it up for the Tommies this year with flashes last year. Would be great to roster a former Hilltopper as well !
Great kid and family.
Wish list is a starting caliber big, a starting caliber wing, and a backup point guard.
Hopefully three spots open up
Quote from: swoopem on December 15, 2025, 12:29:51 PMWish list is a starting caliber big, a starting caliber wing, and a backup point guard.
Hopefully three spots open up
I see the same 3 needs.
Minessale would be interesting, just wish he could shoot. Not sure how his game will translate to the P5 level.
Whoever had the neck obsession here would be elated to have him on the roster
Rakim Chaney from Valpo would be an upgrade over multiple players on our current team. Not crazy about him being in the same class as Nigel though.
Just what Marquette needs a 6'5" player that shoots 29% from the 3 point line at the mid major level.😂
Quote from: Aircraftcarrier on December 15, 2025, 01:28:48 PMJust what Marquette needs a 6'5" player that shoots 29% from the 3 point line at the mid major level.😂
70% at the rim.
We have enough non shooting, non defending wings.
Quote from: wadesworld on December 15, 2025, 01:41:32 PMWe have enough non shooting, non defending wings.
Decent defensively - high upside athletic wing who is crafty in the paint
Quote from: wadesworld on December 15, 2025, 01:41:32 PMWe have enough non shooting, non defending wings.
SMH - enjoy loserville
Quote from: panda on December 15, 2025, 02:21:56 PMDecent defensively - high upside athletic wing who is crafty in the paint
SMH - enjoy loserville
If Shaka decides he's right for the team then so be it. But we have plenty of guys who can shoot and miss a lot of perimeter jumpers, and getting to/finishing at the rim is a little tougher in the Big East than it is in the Summit League. I have doubts about a 6'5" wing who shoots sub 30% from 3 having success in the Big East. But I've been wrong before.
Will never get the money at MU, so forget him
Quote from: wadesworld on December 15, 2025, 03:08:16 PMIf Shaka decides he's right for the team then so be it.
True. His decisions are always perfect!
Quote from: Jay Bee on December 15, 2025, 05:01:31 PMTrue. His decisions are always perfect!
This is my biggest concern by far. I mean, if the offense is slow to come around or the level of competition is too much on that end, that's one thing.
But this team can't defend. There's no rim protection. They suck at switching. Don't close out well. Don't fight over screens. I can forgive that from the freshmen, but guys who've been here 2-3 years and have the baseline physical tools shouldn't be putrid defenders anymore.
How is this defense our calling card?
Quote from: brewcity77 on December 15, 2025, 09:02:48 PMThis is my biggest concern by far. I mean, if the offense is slow to come around or the level of competition is too much on that end, that's one thing.
But this team can't defend. There's no rim protection. They suck at switching. Don't close out well. Don't fight over screens. I can forgive that from the freshmen, but guys who've been here 2-3 years and have the baseline physical tools shouldn't be putrid defenders anymore.
How is this defense our calling card?
If your garbage offense is made up of athletes doing the right things you can find success. Look at Seton Hall.
But even then, if we want to be championship level competitive you cannot have as bad of an offense as we have. You have to have shot makers, we don't. You have to have finisher, we don't. You have to have an athletic front court, we don't.
Name anything a champion has, we don't.
A new roster? Outside of NJ, Royce and Adrien, I wouldn't be sad to see any of the roster turn over. I want to believe in Zaide and Owens talent, but they've both been dreadful this season.
Quote from: panda on December 15, 2025, 11:52:52 AMThis season is gone. Minimal to no hope on the development front for much of the roster.
Given it's Christmas time, drop your wish list for next season.
I'll start - Nolan Minessale. Ripping it up for the Tommies this year with flashes last year. Would be great to roster a former Hilltopper as well !
Mentioned Nolan Minessale in an earlier thread on this site and that he would be my first choice.
Recently heard a week ago from a mutual friend that Nolan loves Marquette and it is one of his dream schools.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on December 16, 2025, 01:21:54 AMMentioned Nolan Minessale in an earlier thread on this site and that he would be my first choice.
Recently heard a week ago from a mutual friend that Nolan loves Marquette and it is one of his dream schools.
Maybe this is what the NM thread has always really been about!
I'll hit a few St. Thomas games in the coming weeks and report back. I'm always Quetted up, so we'll see if he takes note.
Illinois has added 6-foot-9 forward Toni Bilic from Croatia, and he will be immediately eligible to play upon arrival in Champaign. In the wild west of college basketball if you Want to win you need to do what it takes.
Shaka seems lost in the way the new system works.
He needs to hire a GM and stick to coaching.
MU is also adding a player from a foreign country who is instantly eligible.
Quote from: illiniwarriors on December 16, 2025, 09:44:02 AMIllinois has added 6-foot-9 forward Toni Bilic from Croatia, and he will be immediately eligible to play upon arrival in Champaign. In the wild west of college basketball if you Want to win you need to do what it takes.
Shaka seems lost in the way the new system works.
He needs to hire a GM and stick to coaching.
I tell my friend that Illinois looks like it rostered the Serbian national team
Quote from: illiniwarriors on December 16, 2025, 09:44:02 AMIllinois has added 6-foot-9 forward Toni Bilic from Croatia, and he will be immediately eligible to play upon arrival in Champaign. In the wild west of college basketball if you Want to win you need to do what it takes.
Shaka seems lost in the way the new system works.
He needs to hire a GM and stick to coaching.
Seems like us in the glory days of Niv Berkowitz.
The concept of redshirting players is over with.The NCAA will soon grant 5 years of eligibility to all athletes.
Shaka needs to let Sheek,Ian,and Nash play this year and see if they show Any ability at All to compete at the level required to play in the Big East.Most of our current roster has shown they can't.This Mess is on Shaka and his entire staff.
Quote from: illiniwarriors on December 16, 2025, 12:41:02 PMThe concept of redshirting players is over with.The NCAA will soon grant 5 years of eligibility to all athletes.
Shaka needs to let Sheek,Ian,and Nash play this year and see if they show Any ability at All to compete at the level required to play in the Big East.Most of our current roster has shown they can't.This Mess is on Shaka and his entire staff.
Soon? When? They recently had a memo saying "NO!" to 2026-27
Quote from: Jay Bee on December 16, 2025, 06:28:52 AMMaybe this is what the NM thread has always really been about!
I'll hit a few St. Thomas games in the coming weeks and report back. I'm always Quetted up, so we'll see if he takes note.
A Nolan Minessale thread I like it. He is deserving
My Source drove up to Saint Thomas with him and there is more lol
So a thread where scoopers predict that every player potentially in the portal will be an instant All-American before they play one minute for MU. Fun.
This is the companion thread to the ones projecting that every incoming freshman, before they played a single game, should start in front of every player on the team. Good times.
Quote from: brewcity77 on December 15, 2025, 09:02:48 PMThis is my biggest concern by far. I mean, if the offense is slow to come around or the level of competition is too much on that end, that's one thing.
But this team can't defend. There's no rim protection. They suck at switching. Don't close out well. Don't fight over screens. I can forgive that from the freshmen, but guys who've been here 2-3 years and have the baseline physical tools shouldn't be putrid defenders anymore.
How is this defense our calling card?
I think what confuses me the most is that he turned Kam, TK, and Jop into solid to good defenders. TK's instincts were always good, but Kam and Jop were lost in their first couple years. Yet by their senior year they played smart, effective defensive. The only thing that prevented them from being better were physical limitations.
So why have the guys that have are more physically gifted struggling to show the same progress? I'm sure part of it is that the offense has regressed so much that we're not able to set up, but I don't think that accounts for all of it.
To review, as the roster is currently constructed, there are no scholarships available for 26-27. Of the 15 projected scholarship players, 10 are between 6'3 (Tre) and 6'8 (Royce) One of the biggest complaints about the current roster is the 3 pt shooting.
The current favorite candidate for the currently non-existent roster slot is a 6'5 wing shooting 30% from 3 in the Summit league.
Quote from: BM1090 on December 16, 2025, 01:55:41 PMI think what confuses me the most is that he turned Kam, TK, and Jop into solid to good defenders. TK's instincts were always good, but Kam and Jop were lost in their first couple years. Yet by their senior year they played smart, effective defensive. The only thing that prevented them from being better were physical limitations.
So why have the guys that have are more physically gifted struggling to show the same progress? I'm sure part of it is that the offense has regressed so much that we're not able to set up, but I don't think that accounts for all of it.
Because different players show progress at different speeds and rates (if they show progress at all)? Because maybe the players you're referencing simply aren't as good or as coachable? Because every player - even every good player - doesn't always improve year over year? (For example, Dom James' best offensive year was his freshman season; he regressed offensively over the rest of his MU career.) Because who the hell knows?
Quote from: tower912 on December 16, 2025, 02:54:53 PMTo review, as the roster is currently constructed, there are no scholarships available for 26-27. Of the 15 projected scholarship players, 10 are between 6'3 (Tre) and 6'8 (Royce) One of the biggest complaints about the current roster is the 3 pt shooting.
The current favorite candidate for the currently non-existent roster slot is a 6'5 wing shooting 30% from 3 in the Summit league.
That's why it is called a wish list. None of us here are in charge of roster management so we can daydream a bit during this nightmare season.
Quote from: tower912 on December 16, 2025, 02:54:53 PMTo review, as the roster is currently constructed, there are no scholarships available for 26-27. Of the 15 projected scholarship players, 10 are between 6'3 (Tre) and 6'8 (Royce) One of the biggest complaints about the current roster is the 3 pt shooting.
The current favorite candidate for the currently non-existent roster slot is a 6'5 wing shooting 30% from 3 in the Summit league.
Everyone is assuming at least one person is transferring out. IMO it would be nonsense if at least two guys didn't transfer out. How do u run this same roster again next year? Just fanciful prayers guys make monumental leaps? Can't do it.
Get better daydreams. And, if no 'essential' players transfer out, I would place my small wager on the 'no incoming transfer' slot on the roulette wheel.
I know it was a couple of years ago and perhaps circumstances have changed enough, but Shaka said previously he would rather develop internally than bring in somebody who was a scorer in the Big Sky conference.
Speculate away.
Quote from: tower912 on December 16, 2025, 03:23:56 PMGet better daydreams. And, if no 'essential' players transfer out, I would place my small wager on the 'no incoming transfer' slot on the roulette wheel.
I know it was a couple of years ago and perhaps circumstances have changed enough, but Shaka said previously he would rather develop internally than bring in somebody who was a scorer in the Big Sky conference.
Speculate away.
You know there is an option to not post rather than smugly regurgitating the same trope over and over again. This is a message board, not the basement of the AL. We can discuss fun players who may theoretically fit into the team without a Poindexter "Well actually" every time it is brought up within a thread named Wishlist.
Quote from: tower912 on December 16, 2025, 03:23:56 PMGet better daydreams. And, if no 'essential' players transfer out, I would place my small wager on the 'no incoming transfer' slot on the roulette wheel.
I know it was a couple of years ago and perhaps circumstances have changed enough, but Shaka said previously he would rather develop internally than bring in somebody who was a scorer in the Big Sky conference.
Speculate away.
The worst part is that he may think those are his only options, when he could possibly take scorers from other high major programs that enter their name into the portal.
Quote from: panda on December 16, 2025, 03:30:11 PMYou know there is an option to not post rather than smugly regurgitating the same trope over and over again. This is a message board, not the basement of the AL. We can discuss fun players who may theoretically fit into the team without a Poindexter "Well actually" every time it is brought up within a thread named Wishlist.
As you smugly post the same trope over and over again?
Quote from: tower912 on December 16, 2025, 03:40:58 PMAs you smugly post the same trope over and over again?
Not like you.
And once again, there is a no post option. Or the Dodds board option. I'm sure there's a bunch of mopes over there who would love to hear what you have to say.
Quote from: panda on December 16, 2025, 03:51:45 PMNot like you.
And once again, there is a no post option. Or the Dodds board option. I'm sure there's a bunch of mopes over there who would love to hear what you have to say.
I will say this, and it will just drive you crazier. I am disappointed in how this season has gone. To paraphrase my parish priest, giving up and despairing are never part of God's plan. So I won't. Nor will I tear down a kid still giving his all for MU. Too many years coaching youth sports.
And there is nothing you can say or do that will change me.
So, let's see some growth and development. Starting two frosh and a redshirt sophomore, should be interesting.
Man o man this thread could hit 1000 pages by next season
Ok I'll get in on it early.
-I wish for a 5 that can be middle of the pack good in the BE. Putbacks and rebounds with some muscle would be great
-I wish for a 2/3 that can put the ball in the basket from multiple levels, and can shoot decently enough to keep defenses honest (is 36-38% from 3 asking too much?)
Prefer both of the above to be already established with 1-2 years left, rather than had one good year in a level below. Less chance to miss in that way, while allowing the younger players to develop at a nice pace, if they are even able to develop into starting BE caliber guys
-I wish for an elite shooting 3/4, stretch 4 type of player with some height. Milan Momcilovic or David Joplin type.
This guy can come from a lower level after one year with 3 left, or transfer "down" as an elite recruit that didn't get the run he wanted as a frosh.
**I don't wish for a pg. I think Shaka gets another good/very good and highly ranked combo guard in the next recruiting class, and I think this years heavy experience due to necessity for Nigel will have him ready for next year. I wouldn't want the guards that Shaka is in on feeling blocked due to Nigel/Adrien/plus a transfer type of scenario
Is that too much to ask for?
Quote from: tower912 on December 16, 2025, 03:59:53 PMI will say this, and it will just drive you crazier. I am disappointed in how this season has gone. To paraphrase my parish priest, giving up and despairing are never part of God's plan. So I won't. Nor will I tear down a kid still giving his all for MU. Too many years coaching youth sports.
And there is nothing you can say or do that will change me.
So, let's see some growth and development. Starting two frosh and a redshirt sophomore, should be interesting.
First off, welcome back. I for one missed your options/comments here.
You have probably been Shaka's biggest proponent on Growth, Development and Retention, opportunities for growth, along with patience and even stated this team was tournament bound. It's probably not going to happen due to this disaster start to the season, which is a shame.
So in your opinion, what has happened this year? You mentioned above starting two frosh and a redshirt sophomore is interesting. What about the other players (Lowery, Norman, Jones, Hamilton, Gold) who have been here three to four years and so far have not really exhibited any growth and development to date? Have you given up on them or do expect some development for them for next year.
Quote from: DoctorV on December 16, 2025, 04:10:37 PMMan o man this thread could hit 1000 pages by next season
Ok I'll get in on it early.
-I wish for a 5 that can be middle of the pack good in the BE. Putbacks and rebounds with some muscle would be great
-I wish for a 2/3 that can put the ball in the basket from multiple levels, and can shoot decently enough to keep defenses honest (is 36-38% from 3 asking too much?)
Prefer both of the above to be already established with 1-2 years left, rather than had one good year in a level below. Less chance to miss in that way, while allowing the younger players to develop at a nice pace, if they are even able to develop into starting BE caliber guys
-I wish for an elite shooting 3/4, stretch 4 type of player with some height. Milan Momcilovic or David Joplin type.
This guy can come from a lower level after one year with 3 left, or transfer "down" as an elite recruit that didn't get the run he wanted as a frosh.
**I don't wish for a pg. I think Shaka gets another good/very good and highly ranked combo guard in the next recruiting class, and I think this years heavy experience due to necessity for Nigel will have him ready for next year. I wouldn't want the guards that Shaka is in on feeling blocked due to Nigel/Adrien/plus a transfer type of scenario
Is that too much to ask for?
As a wishlist? No.
As a reality happening next season? Yes.
Quote from: nyg on December 16, 2025, 04:57:04 PMFirst off, welcome back. I for one missed your options/comments here.
You have probably been Shaka's biggest proponent on Growth, Development and Retention, opportunities for growth, along with patience and even stated this team was tournament bound. It's probably not going to happen due to this disaster start to the season, which is a shame.
So in your opinion, what has happened this year? You mentioned above starting two frosh and a redshirt sophomore is interesting. What about the other players (Lowery, Norman, Jones, Hamilton, Gold) who have been here three to four years and so far have not really exhibited any growth and development to date? Have you given up on them or do expect some development for them for next year.
Defense. I assumed there would be changes, as I did not see any way that MU could continue to switch 1-5. Usually, I am pretty good at figuring out defenses. Kind of a tic with me. I cannot figure out what the new scheme is. I am not sure the players have either. I no longer know where the help is even supposed to be coming from. The best example of this is Ben doubling and hedging the ballhandler 35 feet from the basket. This worked last year. This season, he is 2 steps late recovering and nobody has even looked to slide into the lane to contest the roller. Even when MU struggled with this under Wojo, somebody would slide into the lane. Unfortunately, it was Rowsey or Howard, but still. It feels like a golfer or major league hitter attempting to make swing changes and being caught between thoughts.
Offensively, I have always wanted more off ball movement and screening. Even with iso ball on offense, MU is getting lots of opportunities at the basket and open looks from 3. Shoot NCAA average on lay ups and this is a 7-4 team, despite everything else.
And I look forward to continued growth from all of them.
Quote from: tower912 on December 16, 2025, 05:15:24 PMDefense. I assumed there would be changes, as I did not see any way that MU could continue to switch 1-5. Usually, I am pretty good at figuring out defenses. Kind of a tic with me. I cannot figure out what the new scheme is. I am not sure the players have either. I know longer know where the help is even supposed to be coming from. The best example of this is Ben doubling and hedging the ballhandler 35 feet from the basket. This worked last year. This season, he is 2 steps late recovering and nobody has even looked to slide into the lane to contest the roller. Even when MU struggled with this under Wojo, somebody would slide into the lane. Unfortunately, it was Rowsey or Howard, but still.
Offensively, I have always wanted more off ball movement and screening. Even with iso ball on offense, MU is getting lots of opportunities at the basket and open looks from 3. Shoot NCAA average on lay ups and this is a 7-4 team, despite everything else.
Well, maybe we find out tomorrow if Shaka cuts his rotation down as the BE play starts. I have said he subs way too much for any consistency with players. They are always playing with different players, some of whom have no clue. As an example he took James out of last game, one minute and ten seconds in and replaced with Jones. I think this rapid rotation system hurts them on both sides of play and after 11 games, Shaka should know by now which players are capable of BE play.
OK, back to portal wish list.
I wish 9 players had emerged as a clear and obvious rotation. As far as Shaka subbing NJ out that quickly, shades of Mike Deane.
Quote from: nyg on December 16, 2025, 05:23:15 PMAs an example he took James out of last game, one minute and ten seconds in and replaced with Jones. I think this rapid rotation system hurts
As James walked from the court to the bench, Shaka met him and had a few things to say to him. So there was a specific reason that substitution was made, and it was not the norm - even in Shaka's "rapid rotation." I wish we knew what the reason was.
Hopefully Boozer will transfer here.
Kon still has eligibility. As does Flagg. Just sayin'
Quote from: illiniwarriors on December 16, 2025, 12:41:02 PMThe concept of redshirting players is over with.The NCAA will soon grant 5 years of eligibility to all athletes.
Shaka needs to let Sheek,Ian,and Nash play this year and see if they show Any ability at All to compete at the level required to play in the Big East.Most of our current roster has shown they can't.This Mess is on Shaka and his entire staff.
Are we really back to this idiocy again?
Quote from: panda on December 16, 2025, 03:51:45 PMNot like you.
And once again, there is a no post option. Or the Dodds board option. I'm sure there's a bunch of mopes over there who would love to hear what you have to say.
first time I disagree with you. No one, NO ONE, gives a shiiit what T has to say. (Well, ok, Sultan, 82, Elon, Wades, Vander, and apparently nyg maybe might)
Quote from: Viper on December 17, 2025, 07:29:04 AMfirst time I disagree with you. No one, NO ONE, gives a shiiit what T has to say. (Well, ok, Sultan, 82, Elon, Wades and Vander maybe might)
Your DM was all performance art, wasn't it? You knew damn well you were utterly full of crape and that you were gaslight trolling. The funny thing is, so did I. And you just keep proving it. Thanks for the laughs.
The more I think about it, the funnier and more revealing this becomes.
It is an incontrovertible fact that there are currently no roster openings for next season.
It is an incontrovertible fact that of the 15 players currently projected for next season, 10 are listed as between 6'3 and 6'8.
It is an incontrovertible fact that this MU team is shooting poorly from 3.
It is an incontrovertible fact that the first player listed in this wish list thread is listed at 6'5 and shooting poorly from 3 for a Summit league team.
Facts. Panda calls them annoying tropes and Viper says nobody pays attention to them. I mean, seriously. What could be more revealing? Thanks for the dopamine, boys.
Quote from: tower912 on December 17, 2025, 07:32:42 AMYour DM was all performance art, wasn't it? You knew damn well you were utterly full of crape and that you were gaslight trolling. The funny thing is, so did I. And you just keep proving it. Thanks for the laughs.
at the time, no. Now? Gloves off, Crafty.
I worry sometimes that Scoop may be a significant contributer to the male loneliness epidemic. We've gone from tinfoil hat jokes to real tinfoil hats.
Or just a confirmation that the internet has allowed people to conflate feelings and lack of personal consequences with being right.
Either way...woof.
We should be working on slapping of fives and community around us and less on the little internet box that feeds lies all day.
Also, ND sucks. Retire 0. RGV 5 EVA.
The 2026-27 scholarship table looks very bleak in the short term. MU needs experience and skill across the board to compete over the next couple of years. To even bother discussing incoming transfers one would have to accept the roster's shortcomings and consider who would be elsewhere to make room for said players.
Upperclassmen: Between Parham, Lowery, Norman, Jones, Hamilton, and Owens I think at least two have to move on. It's possible Royce may be the only high level difference maker in his time here. Not an inspiring group of 'leaders' by any means.
MU is in desperate need of a skilled big man who is not a liability on the court. Someone they can count on to score 12+ppg, rebound and defend at a high level, and play with physicality. Royce is filling up the stat sheet a bit more lately which is good to see. I have relatively high hopes for Sheek after year 1. If no transfer joins, they'll very likely be in worse shape after Gold's departure. Sad.
With Ross graduating I have little belief in Lowery/Norman...an older wing with alpha mentality seems like a no brainer. As for guard, I'm happy with James, but it wouldn't hurt to add an experienced PG in the portal. Jones isn't going to cut it. If NJ goes down, what happens?
Hopefully 3/4 of next year's newcomers (including redshirts) can make an impact like James/Stevens this year. I'd guess Sheek, Miletic, Egbuono and maybe Walker.
If the portal remains out of the question, 3-4 of Shaka's young guys have to be recruiting home runs, and 80% of the others need to be Big East caliber players.
Quote from: Markusquette on December 15, 2025, 12:56:10 PMWhoever had the neck obsession here would be elated to have him on the roster
That would be the dead one
Quote from: Viper on December 17, 2025, 07:29:04 AMfirst time I disagree with you. No one, NO ONE, gives a shiiit what T has to say. (Well, ok, Sultan, 82, Elon, Wades, Vander, and apparently nyg maybe might)
Compiling an enemies list? Nice. And now tower's on it, too? It's an honor to be with him.
Back atcha.
Quote from: MU82 on December 17, 2025, 04:30:07 PMCompiling an enemies list? Nice. And now tower's on it, too? It's an honor to be with him.
frenemies ❤️.
Quote from: tower912 on December 17, 2025, 08:21:18 AMIt is an incontrovertible fact that there are currently no roster openings for next season.
I'm gonna disagree with this one. Technically, FALSE!.
Quote from: Jay Bee on December 17, 2025, 06:04:37 PMI'm gonna disagree with this one. Technically, FALSE!.
OK! EXPLAIN!
All scholarships are one year?
But your point is well taken
Betting the under on MU transfers in to recoup the cost of my Scoop subscription
https://x.com/ingamehq/status/2001405625251541118?s=46
I see one kid leaving, Sean Jones because he might graduate this year.
Nolan Minessale has the most 20 Point games in all of Division 1 Basketball and his team is 10-4.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on December 20, 2025, 11:11:32 PMNolan Minessale has the most 20 Point games in all of Division 1 Basketball and his team is 10-4.
. Probably would be the best player on this year's team
Right ...
Dis Minessale all you want ( I know his Dad, great guy ) ...
He had 27 points today. He'd be one of two or three best players on this team.
And ... he's a phenomenal athlete
MU could do A LOT worse.
But, personally I want a new coach in the portal.
Quote from: Mu8891 on December 20, 2025, 11:30:17 PMRight ...
Dis Minessale all you want ( I know his Dad, great guy ) ...
He had 27 points today. He'd be one of two or three best players on this team.
And ... he's a phenomenal athlete
MU could do A LOT worse.
But, personally I want a new coach in the portal.
What am I missing about this Minessale kid? He's a sub 30% 3 point shooter who scores a ton of points on a ton of shots taken. I feel like adding another atheltic wing who can't shoot from deep is not something MUBB needs.
Quote from: BCHoopster on December 17, 2025, 07:34:36 PMI see one kid leaving, Sean Jones because he might graduate this year.
The guy who better not leave is Nigel.
There's one kid to protect and that's Nigel.
Stevens probably as well.
No-one else among the returnees is a Big East starter, in the context of MU being in the top 3 in the BEAST and top 25 in the nation. (my expectation -every year)
Maybe Parham can develop to a competent 6th man who might get more minutes than a starter when he's having a good day.
The others: buhbye
He's better than the bums on this roster. And more heart too
Quote from: 79Warrior on December 20, 2025, 11:42:02 PMThe guy who better not leave is Nigel.
IMO, he's #1 on the most likely to leave list. :(
How soon are we arriving at the point that the only transfer that matters is Shaka?
Quote from: tower912 on December 17, 2025, 06:21:17 PMOK! EXPLAIN!
Probably expecting a transfer. Otherwise, you are correct.
Saturdays was at one of Nolan's College roommates house and Sunday spoke with a few of Nolan's Family members. They said something to the effect Nolan loves Marquette but Marquette needs more than Nolan.
Quote from: MUbiz on December 20, 2025, 11:38:11 PMWhat am I missing about this Minessale kid? He's a sub 30% 3 point shooter who scores a ton of points on a ton of shots taken. I feel like adding another atheltic wing who can't shoot from deep is not something MUBB needs.
We have very stupid fans, that's all you're missing. :)
Owen Freeman. He's doing wonders for Creighton.
This roster needs cleansing and major overhaul. Can't imagine Shaka maintaining status quo
Quote from: MUbiz on December 20, 2025, 11:38:11 PMWhat am I missing about this Minessale kid? He's a sub 30% 3 point shooter who scores a ton of points on a ton of shots taken. I feel like adding another atheltic wing who can't shoot from deep is not something MUBB needs.
He can actually make a layup. Will probably be a better outside shooter in a reduced role playing on a better team.
Minessale is a solid option. Wouldnt be a bad fit with Nigel and Stevens. He can handle and create better than Chase can, take some pressure off the other guards. Just never know how someones game handles that big of a jump in competition.
Another local kid, Amari McCottry is better than Owens right now as an athletic 3/4, although I still am not completely out on Owens potential.
Daniel Freitag would be funny. Shaka did offer him and he visited as a HS recruit. Badgers cut him loose after last year and now he's a stud at Buffalo. We could use a true scorer like him, plus the Badger fans crying about it would be entertaining.
Quote from: JTJ3 on December 26, 2025, 03:34:34 PMDaniel Freitag would be funny. Shaka did offer him and he visited as a HS recruit. Badgers cut him loose after last year and now he's a stud at Buffalo. We could use a true scorer like him, plus the Badger fans crying about it would be entertaining.
This would be art.
Good news, transfer portal wishers! We now officially have one opening to add a transfer!
I'm guessing it won't be the only one. We'll see what actually happens with that (and other openings) in a few months.
It's not transfer portal wishers. It's more like the "let's put the best possible team together wishers".
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on December 28, 2025, 06:07:33 PMIt's not transfer portal wishers. It's more like the "let's put the best possible team together wishers".
Exactly.
If Shaka somehow becomes that one coach who doesn't miss on high school recruits, then I wouldn't care if he used the portal.
But like pretty much every coach, he has missed on high school recruits. A whole bunch. And he's compounded that by refusing to use the portal to address the resulting weaknesses of his roster. And here we are today.
I was just playing off the thread title, and meant no disrespect.
I'm a "transfer portal wisher" myself.
TJ Otzelberger
Quote from: onepost on December 29, 2025, 12:48:26 AMTJ Otzelberger
Probably setting yourself up for disappointment if that is your wish.
Maybe add Saint Thomas's Nick Jankowski to the wish list. Marquette offered out of Pewaukee High School but He went to Nebraska then transferred to Saint Thomas. Nick can shoot and Saint Thomas has a better NET than Marquette.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 04, 2026, 10:04:36 PMMaybe add Saint Thomas's Nick Jankowski to the wish list. Marquette offered out of Pewaukee High School but He went to Nebraska then transferred to Saint Thomas. Nick can shoot and Saint Thomas has a better NET than Marquette.
What did the Minessales tell you about Jankowski? 32% three point shooting guard would fit right in. Let's keep that ball rolling.
Recruiting high school kids to play against 23 and 24 year olds just does not work anymore unless you are bringing in an AJ Dybantsa type players and they cost 5 million each.Illinois brought in 5 pro's from Crotia over the last 2 years one is a 24 year old freshman.Tell me how Ian Miletic is suppose compete against them.
Illinois found an agent who represents lots of eastern European players and the cost is 1/2 million each.
Brad Underwood believes in age and maturity and he may be right.
I think Shaka's way can work too if he hits on the right high school talent. Need a good mix of athleticism, strength and skill. MU currently lacks in strength and skill. Strength is sometimes a product of age but Shaka's system of trying to get older should work in this regard. Fringe tournament teams should be the nadir if the talent assessments are correct. More than one way to skin a cat.
Fact. There is Not 1 team in the top 25 of of NCAA D-1 college basketball that did not use the Transfer Portal for their current roster.Yet there are people on this board that think Shaka can do it the old fashion way.
We will Never be competitive again without a complete change in recruiting philosophy.
Feel free to fact check me.
Quote from: illiniwarriors on January 05, 2026, 07:10:11 AMFact. There is Not 1 team in the top 25 of of NCAA D-1 college basketball that did not use the Transfer Portal for their current roster.Yet there are people on this board that think Shaka can do it the old fashion way.
We will Never be competitive again without a complete change in recruiting philosophy.
Feel free to fact check me.
Agreed. Supplementing the roster through the portal will always be a necessity as it has been at MU from the beginning of time. But 2/3 or more of the roster can be filled the Shaka way if he hits on recruits. The majority of fans are fine with that. No need for these two methods to be mutually exclusive.
Quote from: illiniwarriors on January 05, 2026, 07:10:11 AMFact. There is Not 1 team in the top 25 of of NCAA D-1 college basketball that did not use the Transfer Portal for their current roster.Yet there are people on this board that think Shaka can do it the old fashion way.
We will Never be competitive again without a complete change in recruiting philosophy.
Feel free to fact check me.
There are barely any teams anywhere in cbb that don't have transfers, so the 'top 25' isn't saying much / misleads the dumb. The team directly behind us in KenPom -- Rhode Island -- is chock-full of transfers.
Quote from: Jay Bee on January 05, 2026, 08:06:37 AMThere are barely any teams anywhere in cbb that don't have transfers, so the 'top 25' isn't saying much / misleads the dumb. The team directly behind us in KenPom -- Rhode Island -- is chock-full of transfers.
let's roll the dice on a few mercenaries. We can't suck worse, can we?
Quote from: Viper on January 05, 2026, 09:23:13 AMlet's roll the dice on a few mercenaries. We can't suck worse, can we?
Is a transfer, especially one who stays 2-3 years (e.g. Kolek), really more of a "mercenary" than a freshman recruit these days, considering both are basically committing to the highest bidder?
Quote from: BCHoopster on December 17, 2025, 07:34:36 PMI see one kid leaving, Sean Jones because he might graduate this year.
I was thinking about this after the UConn game. I'm good with Shaka telling Jones to hit the road, considering he'll graduate. Now that rosters are at 15, I'd be ok with him telling Hamilton he can stay to graduate from MU and be a locker room leader, but be relegated to a 6-9 cheerleader. The kid isn't a BE player, but he has made a commitment to MU. Let him get his Marquette degree.
Owens and Parham (I've really soured on him over the previous few games), maybe an A-10 or MAAC program is a better spot for them.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on January 05, 2026, 09:37:13 AMI was thinking about this after the UConn game. I'm good with Shaka telling Jones to hit the road, considering he'll graduate. Now that rosters are at 15, I'd be ok with him telling Hamilton he can stay to graduate from MU and be a locker room leader, but be relegated to a 6-9 cheerleader. The kid isn't a BE player, but he has made a commitment to MU. Let him get his Marquette degree.
Owens and Parham (I've really soured on him over the previous few games), maybe an A-10 or MAAC program is a better spot for them.
What about Tre Norman? Same deal as Hamilton.
Quote from: Biggie Clausen on January 05, 2026, 10:00:22 AMWhat about Tre Norman? Same deal as Hamilton.
The same as Hamilton, with his role very clear.
No hoops team is going to play 15 guys.
Honestly, Shaka doesn't even need to go hog wild in the portal. Even if he only gets 2 quality players, that's enough for a serious turnaround if some of the younger guys develop.
Obviously, easier said than done, but hopefully he's privately focusing on a couple of guys. That said, finding guys the quality of Tyler Kolek and Omax Prosper isn't easy but that's how Shaka kick started this program when he got here (along with a couple other short term guys).
I think it's pretty clear he HAS to find a true quality outside shooting guard to go with James to have any chance of a turnaround. With zero pure shooters on the squad it's an incredible weakness that has reared it's ugly head vs. any power 5 team they have faced so far.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on January 05, 2026, 10:09:01 AMThe same as Hamilton, with his role very clear.
No hoops team is going to play 15 guys.
If neither Hamilton nor Norman leave after this year, do you really think that just two roster spaces (Zaide's and Sean's--presuming your speculation about him graduating and then no longer using a scholarship plays out) is enough to make a big enough difference after this pathetic season and lack of growth from other players?
Quote from: GBPhoenix1993 on January 05, 2026, 10:28:31 AMHonestly, Shaka doesn't even need to go hog wild in the portal. Even if he only gets 2 quality players, that's enough for a serious turnaround if some of the younger guys develop.
Obviously, easier said than done, but hopefully he's privately focusing on a couple of guys. That said, finding guys the quality of Tyler Kolek and Omax Prosper isn't easy but that's how Shaka kick started this program when he got here (along with a couple other short term guys).
I think it's pretty clear he HAS to find a true quality outside shooting guard to go with James to have any chance of a turnaround. With zero pure shooters on the squad it's an incredible weakness that has reared it's ugly head vs. any power 5 team they have faced so far.
That's a big if you got there, given how we're seeing little growth in both the junior and sophomore classes this year.
Quote from: mug644 on January 05, 2026, 10:38:03 AMIf neither Hamilton nor Norman leave after this year, do you really think that just two roster spaces (Zaide's and Sean's--presuming your speculation about him graduating and then no longer using a scholarship plays out) is enough to make a big enough difference after this pathetic season and lack of growth from other players?
That's a big if you got there, given how we're seeing little growth in both the junior and sophomore classes this year.
If they only secure two transfers, those two guys would have to be absolute studs to turn this program around quickly. Like a scoring floor general and dominant athletic big. Would be nice to add as many as four transfers but I won't hold my breath.
Think of MU's NIL fund like you think of the Brewer's payroll. Do not deceive yourself that it is like the Dodger's payroll. As you make your wish list, this necessarily eliminates high end bidding wars. The college basketball equivalent of Shohei or Skubal is not coming through the doors of the AL.
Perhaps developing young talent is the best option.
Quote from: tower912 on January 05, 2026, 06:02:32 PMThink of MU's NIL fund like you think of the Brewer's payroll. Do not deceive yourself that it is like the Dodger's payroll. As you make your wish list, this necessarily eliminates high end bidding wars. The college basketball equivalent of Shohei or Skubal is not coming through the doors of the AL.
Perhaps developing young talent is the best option.
COLE.
It can definitely work but the key is the players have to have talent to develop. Identifying talent has to be Shaka's and the coaching staff's biggest strength.
Quote from: tower912 on January 05, 2026, 06:02:32 PMThink of MU's NIL fund like you think of the Brewer's payroll. Do not deceive yourself that it is like the Dodger's payroll. As you make your wish list, this necessarily eliminates high end bidding wars. The college basketball equivalent of Shohei or Skubal is not coming through the doors of the AL.
Perhaps developing young talent is the best option.
The Brewers were in the bottom quarter of MLB payrolls last year. I can assure you, Marquette is not in the bottom quarter of NCAA basketball payrolls. There's plenty of reason to believe Marquette is, and can be, competitive among its peer group.
Paint Touches' reporting on the subject indicates Marquette is no pauper when it comes to NIL funding and payouts.
https://painttouches.com/2024/12/30/how-much-do-marquette-players-make-in-nil/
I have read it. And I stand by my statement. Even the numbers cited from a couple of years ago do not allow MU to win a bidding war .
Quote from: tower912 on January 05, 2026, 07:20:22 PMI have read it. And I stand by my statement. Even the numbers cited from a couple of years ago do not allow MU to win a bidding war .
I don't think anyone expects us to consistently compete with big time NIL spenders in the market.
Seton Hall, butler and providence all signed good players from the portal. We can compete with them for pieces.
I look forward to watching it play out.
Quote from: tower912 on January 05, 2026, 07:20:22 PMI have read it. And I stand by my statement. Even the numbers cited from a couple of years ago do not allow MU to win a bidding war .
A bidding war with who? Duke? Kentucky? Probably not.
Of course, no one here has once suggested otherwise. It's just a red herring thrown out there by the defenders of a failed strategy.
If we can't even compete with non-bluebloods for talent, why bother continuing this charade of having a high-major basketball program? Admit we're a pauper program and join the Horizon League. They'd love to have us.
But again, nothing about Marquette basketball suggests we're a pauper program lacking in resources. It's just an excuse not rooted in any facts.
So do I. I hope Shaka can do everything he can to improve the team for next season.
Quote from: panda on January 05, 2026, 08:07:43 PMI don't think anyone expects us to consistently compete with big time NIL spenders in the market.
Seton Hall, butler and providence all signed good players from the portal. We can compete with them for pieces.
Lot of players in the portal. Last year's rankings:
https://247sports.com/season/2025-basketball/transferportaltop/
There are upgrades in the 200-400 range. Think MU could compete for those players.
Quote from: tower912 on January 05, 2026, 07:20:22 PMI have read it. And I stand by my statement. Even the numbers cited from a couple of years ago do not allow MU to win a bidding war .
You have no idea what's currently banked in the NIL vault. I don't either. You have no idea how much MU can spend, or is willing to spend, for wins. Same here. Yours is all conjecture.
Quote from: CountryRoads on January 05, 2026, 08:17:43 PMLot of players in the portal. Last year's rankings:
https://247sports.com/season/2025-basketball/transferportaltop/
There are upgrades in the 200-400 range. Think MU could compete for those players.
Thank You for compiling rankings. Agree since there are approximately 365 x 15 =5,475 players in Division 1 is that correct. Not saying Caedin is number 5475 but 200-400 range would be awesome
Interesting article out of Connecticut, comparing and contrasting the portal approaches of Hurley, Shaka, and Pitino. In it, Shaka expresses admiration for how Izzo, Painter, and Hurley recruit and develop their own while using transfers to augment.
Perhaps Shaka is recalibrating.
Looking forward to seeing how it plays out.
Quote from: Viper on January 05, 2026, 08:22:58 PMYou have no idea what's currently banked in the NIL vault. I don't either. You have no idea how much MU can spend, or is willing to spend, for wins. Same here. Yours is all conjecture.
You're correct that none of us know Marquette's NIL budget.
What I do know is that Marquette always ranks in the top 25 in attendance and, if I'm not mistaken, was top 10ish last year.
I know Marquette has a passionate, dedicated fanbase that cares way more about its basketball program than most.
I know Marquette is located in a major market with substantial opportunities for corporate investment and sponsorships, and - relatively speaking - little direct competition for those dollars.
I know Marquette men's basketball doesn't have to share a dime of its NIL revenues with a football, baseball or hockey program ... or any program that need substantial investment.
None of those factors can give me an exact dollar amount of what's available, but they're all strong indicators that the revenues to be competitive are out there to be had. If Marquette isn't capturing those revenues, we need better people in charge.
Quote from: tower912 on January 05, 2026, 07:20:22 PMI have read it. And I stand by my statement. Even the numbers cited from a couple of years ago do not allow MU to win a bidding war .
I have absolutely no idea how much $$$ Marquette has for NIL. I would think we have enough to compete with the likes of Providence, Creighton, Seton Hall, Butler, Xavier, but maybe not.
It's gonna be an interesting April for MU hoops. (And for MUScoop!)
Hope that article Tower mentions is an accurate reflection of how he thinks because that is the most rational thing I have heard this year from the program. If we had that thought process for the past two years there may have been more than one sweet sixteen to show for it.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on January 05, 2026, 09:26:16 PMHope that article Tower mentions is an accurate reflection of how he thinks because that is the most rational thing I have heard this year from the program. If we had that thought process for the past two years there may have been more than one sweet sixteen to show for it.
Sometimes reality needs to slap you in the face before you make the necessary adjustments, whether that's the portal or life in general.
We'll see what happens.
Quote from: tower912 on January 05, 2026, 08:46:01 PMInteresting article out of Connecticut, comparing and contrasting the portal approaches of Hurley, Shaka, and Pitino. In it, Shaka expresses admiration for how Izzo, Painter, and Hurley recruit and develop their own while using transfers to augment.
Perhaps Shaka is recalibrating.
Looking forward to seeing how it plays out.
Shaka is a smart guy. He knows he needs to turn this around quickly. I don't see how he does that without using the portal. He just had too many misses in the junior and sophomore classes.
Quote from: tower912 on January 05, 2026, 06:02:32 PMThink of MU's NIL fund like you think of the Brewer's payroll. Do not deceive yourself that it is like the Dodger's payroll. As you make your wish list, this necessarily eliminates high end bidding wars. The college basketball equivalent of Shohei or Skubal is not coming through the doors of the AL.
Perhaps developing young talent is the best option.
We don't need Kentucky's payroll. But clearly this assembly of talent isn't enough. We can certainly compete for transfers with the likes of Seton Hall, Villanova, and Butler.
Right now, there are 4 paths to roster build.
- US Transfers: This is the most reliable path because they have a D1 track record to assess, but also the most expensive.
- Elite HS Players: Think top-40 recruits. Returns vary but generally these are immediate impact guys. Next most expensive.
- Foreign Pros: Wide variability in quality & hard to evaluate, but cheaper than domestic talent.
- Developmental HS Players: Sub-40 recruits. Typically take years to pay off, cheaper than most other options but if they don't hit it's usually a long term wasted investment.
At the moment, we're not using 3 of the 4 paths. We're using a low reliability, long term payoff method that requires the staff to hit on about 75% of their targets. When we miss (and we have more misses than hits on the roster now) there's no alternative to supplement talent.
The biggest issue is this staff seems to have believed this team was good enough. They saw these guys in practice and thought they were Big East level players. If the only method we're using requires elite talent identification and development, and this staff isn't proving elite at either with this current roster, and most of this roster is locked into being back for the next 2-3 years, "developing young talent" is simply not a viable option if we want to meet our expected level of success.
Quote from: tower912 on January 05, 2026, 08:46:01 PMInteresting article out of Connecticut, comparing and contrasting the portal approaches of Hurley, Shaka, and Pitino. In it, Shaka expresses admiration for how Izzo, Painter, and Hurley recruit and develop their own while using transfers to augment.
Perhaps Shaka is recalibrating.
Looking forward to seeing how it plays out.
Link?
And, of course, he's recalibrating...he's been reading MU Scoop.
Quote from: tower912 on January 05, 2026, 06:02:32 PMPerhaps developing young talent is the best option.
The guys that everyone (mostly) want to see transfer have had plenty of time to grow and develop. They haven't. It's time to move on from Tre, Caedin, and Sean. Thankfully Zaide already left and hopefully started the trend. They've all had 3 years and they've shown they don't belong at this level.
*maybe Sean did but he doesn't anymore
Portal wish list
1. New AD
2. New head coach
3. Entirely new roster
Quote from: Farley36 on January 06, 2026, 08:19:22 AMPortal wish list
1. New AD
2. New head coach
3. Entirely new roster
4. New message board.
Quote from: tower912 on January 06, 2026, 08:27:40 AM4. New message board.
The dentists' underboard will be up and running any day now.
6. Automatic lifetime banning of scoopers who receive 100 thumbs down votes. Farley, Fieldhouse, Willie are just a few who would be SO gone.
7. Eliminating the filters when you are insulting other posters.
Tough season, team mentally expended, losing a rotation player first first time . . . Logical to think it's t8me to try a modified approach. Makes sense, and Shaka will do it
Quote from: tower912 on January 05, 2026, 08:46:01 PMInteresting article out of Connecticut, comparing and contrasting the portal approaches of Hurley, Shaka, and Pitino. In it, Shaka expresses admiration for how Izzo, Painter, and Hurley recruit and develop their own while using transfers to augment.
Perhaps Shaka is recalibrating.
Looking forward to seeing how it plays out.
Wait, what??? Shaka is abandoning his core principles???? ::)
Not surprised, he's a great coach and smart guy, he will adjust.
Quote from: mug644 on January 06, 2026, 04:49:54 AMLink?
And, of course, he's recalibrating...he's been reading MU Scoop.
This is what I found: https://www.ctinsider.com/sports/uconn-mens-basketball/article/ncaa-transfer-portal-st-johns-marquette-dan-hurley-21277022.php
Quote"I think the UConns, the Purdues, the Michigan States, in terms of sustaining success from year to year, that appears to be the way to go about it," Marquette coach Shaka Smart told CT Insider. "What those guys have done through the combination of their high school recruiting, retention and transfer recruiting is they've kept their talent and their culture at a very high level. And that gives you a chance to win."
And maybe that's the route Smart will take after this borderline disastrous season. Barring a Big East Tournament miracle (or Dwyane Wade returning to finish out his college eligibility), the Golden Eagles' streak of four straight NCAA tourneys will come to an end. In fact, it'll take everything for them to avoid finishing in the Big East basement.
But then also...
QuoteBut Smart is steadfast in his belief that incoming portal players should not be paid more than guys who are already in the program. There's a tier-system that Marquette employs when paying players, and Smart is loathe to depart from it.
And he also doesn't like dealing with agents in those situations. He'll deal with agents in other situations, including incoming freshmen. But not with veteran college players looking for a bigger payday.
It is a fine needle to thread.
Quote from: mug644 on January 06, 2026, 04:49:54 AMLink?
And, of course, he's recalibrating...he's been reading MU Scoop.
Found the article that Tower referenced: https://www.ctinsider.com/sports/uconn-mens-basketball/article/ncaa-transfer-portal-st-johns-marquette-dan-hurley-21277022.php (https://www.ctinsider.com/sports/uconn-mens-basketball/article/ncaa-transfer-portal-st-johns-marquette-dan-hurley-21277022.php)
Looks like Rocky beat me to it. That's why he rakes in my subscription fees.
Quote from: Pakuni on January 06, 2026, 08:36:00 AMThe dentists' underboard will be up and running any day now.
Is that where Rico is? He went looking for his adversaries?
Quote from: tower912 on January 06, 2026, 10:23:37 AMIt is a fine needle to thread.
True, but I like Shaka's chances to do so.
Unlike some/a few here, I feel like MU has a lot to offer: Shaka, a very good offensive system, facilities, fan support, P5 level of funds, BE exposure, Real Chili.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on January 06, 2026, 10:17:37 AMBut Smart is steadfast in his belief that incoming portal players should not be paid more than guys who are already in the program. There's a tier-system that Marquette employs when paying players, and Smart is loathe to depart from it.
And he also doesn't like dealing with agents in those situations. He'll deal with agents in other situations, including incoming freshmen. But not with veteran college players looking for a bigger payday.
Is this common?
He refused to deal with Morillo's agent and he went to Illinois after months and months of recruiting.
Egbuono had an agent.
Quote from: illiniwarriors on January 06, 2026, 04:31:00 PMHe refused to deal with Morillo's agent and he went to Illinois after months and months of recruiting.
And you should probably change that to 'he refused to negotiate'. He has been clear that an agent doesn't change what a player is paid by MU. Perhaps an agent can help with outside money.
Quote from: tower912 on January 06, 2026, 04:34:23 PMEgbuono had an agent.
The article says he refuses to deal with transfer portal agents?? It's not a direct quote though.
It also says "incoming portal players should not be paid more than guys who are already in the program."... What's unclear... If you're coming in as a senior, you can at least get senior MU money right? Not first year MU $$?
That would obviously be a hindrance to portal negotiations.
I think the crucial word is 'negotiate'.
Not sure how the tiered system awards performance. Hard to argue that James is not worth more than a lot of the upperclassmen. Maybe there's a performance bonus.
Quote from: Zog from Margo on January 06, 2026, 07:34:53 PMNot sure how the tiered system awards performance. Hard to argue that James is not worth more than a lot of the upperclassmen. Maybe there's a performance bonus.
Shaka mamdani smart smh
Egbuono was represented by his parents who were his agents.Morillo had an actual agent. Many parents and family members act as agents.
Nolan Minessale 22 points and 12 assists tonight in another win for 13-4 Saint Thomas.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on January 06, 2026, 06:58:38 PMIt also says "incoming portal players should not be paid more than guys who are already in the program."... What's unclear... If you're coming in as a senior, you can at least get senior MU money right? Not first year MU $$?
That would obviously be a hindrance to portal negotiations.
If it's the former, it's concerning. If it's the latter, we're screwed.
Quote from: Pakuni on January 06, 2026, 08:36:00 AMThe dentists' underboard will be up and running any day now.
The Underboard is TM, cease & desist... No effin dentists allowed
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 07, 2026, 11:30:18 PMNolan Minessale 22 points and 12 assists tonight in another win for 13-4 Saint Thomas.
It's time to bring them to BE
Wrong Thread Earlier.
Saint Thomas runs its record to 15-4 with a NET much better than Marquette's with a 91-80 road win. Nolan Minessale scored 27 Points. Nick Janowski scored 32 Points.
Do they play good teams? What is the boards fixation on St Thomas?
Could MU players playing the same schedule as St Thomas be doing just as well?
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on January 16, 2026, 09:04:38 AMDo they play good teams? What is the boards fixation on St Thomas?
Could MU players playing the same schedule as St Thomas be doing just as well?
Not sure about Janowski, but Minnessale (according to 3 Man Weave's Jim Root) is likely to be one of the biggest names in the portal. He's generally held his own against higher ranked competition (only SMC this year) and while he's an average three point shooter, his combination of at the rim finishing and shot creation is something this team could really use. It's always a gamble in how guys translate up. You hope for Creighton Baylor Scheierman but might get UNC Cade Tyson.
Minnessale is local and his family reportedly likes Marquette, so until he goes elsewhere, expect this rumor to keep its legs.
I'd take him as of one our 5 portal additions this offseason :)
Quote from: Tha Hound on January 16, 2026, 12:15:55 PMI'd take him as of one our 5 portal additions this offseason :)
5 would be awesome.
Still think it is probably more likely we add 0 than we add even just 1 though.
Why change now when you're already in this deep?
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 16, 2026, 12:24:28 PM5 would be awesome.
Still think it is probably more likely we add 0 than we add even just 1 though.
Why change now when you're already in this deep?
Because your job depends on you winning basketball games and you didn't do that enough.
People act like Shaka is some hard headed guy with an overinflated ego who has never adjusted. He's a highly competitive, highly successful person. You don't get to the top 0.01% of your profession by not adjusting to things and finding different ways to make things work.
If it is 1, experienced combo guard with size. Someone who has experience at both.
If there is another departure, a stretch 4.
Quote from: wadesworld on January 16, 2026, 01:35:24 PMBecause your job depends on you winning basketball games and you didn't do that enough.
People act like Shaka is some hard headed guy with an overinflated ego who has never adjusted. He's a highly competitive, highly successful person. You don't get to the top 0.01% of your profession by not adjusting to things and finding different ways to make things work.
It certainly seems as though he is hard headed with an overinflated ego, no?
He went into this season with Ben Gold and Caedin Hamilton as his 2 bigs and he was just ok with that? That's stubbornness. There was no better time than last offseason to bring in proven talent in the front court and he didn't. If he won't recruit over Hamilton why would he recruit over anyone?
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 16, 2026, 02:01:34 PMIt certainly seems as though he is hard headed with an overinflated ego, no?
He went into this season with Ben Gold and Caedin Hamilton as his 2 bigs and he was just ok with that? That's stubbornness. There was no better time than last offseason to bring in proven talent in the front court and he didn't. If he won't recruit over Hamilton why would he recruit over anyone?
No.
You realize we have an open scholarship right? Zaide isn't returning to the team in the offseason.
Yeah if youve ever met Shaka, he is insanely competitive. He will adjust to bring in more talent next year, assuming he stays. Im not worried about that.
He's not anti-portal, he just thought the development program was enough to win this year with the returning guys, which is obviously a massive red flag in its own right, no denying that.
But Im not worried about him not adjusting to get back to winning. I expect 3 portal additions minimum.
Quote from: JTJ3 on January 16, 2026, 02:04:33 PMYeah if youve ever met Shaka, he is insanely competitive. He will adjust to bring in more talent next year, assuming he stays. Im not worried about that.
He's not anti-portal, he just thought the development program was enough to win this year with the returning guys, which is obviously a massive red flag in its own right, no denying that.
But Im not worried about him not adjusting to get back to winning. I expect 3 portal additions minimum.
Are you worried about him making the necessary roster decisions following this year to open up more spots?
It's not a portal vs no portal decision. It's more so him acknowledging and moving on from several players on this roster who should not be here next year.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 16, 2026, 12:24:28 PM5 would be awesome.
Still think it is probably more likely we add 0 than we add even just 1 though.
Why change now when you're already in this deep?
::)
Quote from: JTJ3 on January 16, 2026, 02:04:33 PMYeah if youve ever met Shaka, he is insanely competitive. He will adjust to bring in more talent next year, assuming he stays. Im not worried about that.
He's not anti-portal, he just thought the development program was enough to win this year with the returning guys, which is obviously a massive red flag in its own right, no denying that.
But Im not worried about him not adjusting to get back to winning. I expect 3 portal additions minimum.
That is the main issue. Even if he goes to the portal will they have the skill set to win.
Quote from: tower912 on January 16, 2026, 01:49:18 PMIf it is 1, experienced combo guard with size. Someone who has experience at both.
If there is another departure, a stretch 4.
Seriously? A combo guard? They need an impact big man.
We need a starting wing, a starting big and another guard/ballhandler to help Nigel. If they dont fix all 3 we'll be better next year, but not good enough to win anything significant.
Shaka found the right fits the first year when he portaled. We'll see if he's still got it.
Tre and Sean are the PG wildcards. If both stay, I think Shaka recruits a PG for 27.
MU is going to be wing heavy and stretch 4 light, barring departures.
AS
DO
Royce
Ian
EJ
Egbouno
Walker
Phillips
Quote from: tower912 on January 16, 2026, 05:05:37 PMTre and Sean are the PG wildcards. If both stay, I think Shaka recruits a PG for 27.
MU is going to be wing heavy and stretch 4 light, barring departures.
AS
DO
Royce
Ian
EJ
Egbouno
Walker
Phillips
We might be out of the tournament conversation by media day with that roster
Tre is not a wild card anything and definitely not a point guard (can't dribble and pass well enough). If he stays he will play 5 minutes a game because of experience and serviceable defense/rebounding. You can't even call him a shooting guard (couldn't hit the broad side of a barn with that catapult shot). He's a place holder for someone getting a rest. He should not factor into any calculus regarding making the team better next year.
Since Sean Jones is basically a senior, I think he is done. So they have 2 openings, if Norman or Hamilton leave as well, then 4. Team can turn around very quickly. Center, shooting guard (now can Walker be the one, has 4 months to watch him in practice to decide) for sure back up guard who can shoot as well as handle the ball. So adding 2 would be good, and hold the next recruiting cycle.
Quote from: tower912 on January 16, 2026, 01:49:18 PMIf it is 1, experienced combo guard with size. Someone who has experience at both.
If there is another departure, a stretch 4.
I will take a knock down shooter please.
On no planet is Norman even as much as a wildcard PG!
Quote from: 79Warrior on January 16, 2026, 06:49:29 PMI will take a knock down shooter please.
Fair. Especially if there are no more departures.
Quote from: tower912 on January 16, 2026, 07:06:12 PMFair. Especially if there are no more departures.
that is why they brought in Nash Walker. They need a big guy. Gave up 8 offensive rebounds in the first half already. Not difficult to figure out
Already have a 4 star 7 footer red shirting. Give me a combo guard.
There will be room for both. And we need both.
Quote from: tower912 on January 16, 2026, 08:36:07 PMAlready have a 4 star 7 footer red shirting. Give me a combo guard.
he is going to be a freshman. If you don't get another big the same thing will happen next season.
Combo guard huh? Sure thing. You don't know what you are talking about.
That makes us even.
About 5 defenders please.
Quote from: wadesworld on January 16, 2026, 09:12:55 PMAbout 5 defenders please.
when you can't rebound and have no rim protection you aren't going to win. Gave up 15 offensive rebounds and when MU got beat off the dribble it was a layup parade. Until that changes they aren't going to win.
4 starters.....
Quote from: brewcity77 on January 16, 2026, 11:11:06 AMNot sure about Janowski, but Minnessale (according to 3 Man Weave's Jim Root) is likely to be one of the biggest names in the portal. He's generally held his own against higher ranked competition (only SMC this year) and while he's an average three point shooter, his combination of at the rim finishing and shot creation is something this team could really use. It's always a gamble in how guys translate up. You hope for Creighton Baylor Scheierman but might get UNC Cade Tyson.
Minnessale is local and his family reportedly likes Marquette, so until he goes elsewhere, expect this rumor to keep its legs.
Spoke and texted with Minessales and Janowskis today. They eat sleep and breath winning. Minessale won a D-1 State Title at Marquette High and Janowski was part of 3 D-2 State Tities and almost a 4th. We need Winners.
Mike 77 - Any chance either of those guys would come to MU ?
Well ... if SS can manage to part with any of the studs on this roster.
Quote from: Mu8891 on January 16, 2026, 10:15:30 PMMike 77 - Any chance either of those guys would come to MU ?
Well ... if SS can manage to part with any of the studs on this roster.
Yes there is a chance
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 16, 2026, 10:07:01 PMSpoke and texted with Minessales and Janowskis today. They eat sleep and breath winning. Minessale won a D-1 State Title at Marquette High and Janowski was part of 3 D-2 State Tities and almost a 4th. We need Winners.
Sounds like Iowa State or Wisconsin would be a better fit if that's the case. Janowski could team up with his Pewaukee teammate. That would be something.
Quote from: CountryRoads on January 16, 2026, 10:26:23 PMSounds like Iowa State or Wisconsin would be a better fit if that's the case. Janowski could team up with his Pewaukee teammate. That would be something.
If We get back to valuing Winning more.
Feel Marquette is Nolan's #1 Choice.
Feel Marquette was Nick's # 1 Choice under Wojo but currently Marquette is Nick's #1 Choice along with that instate school to our west.
I think there will be another vavancy, brining it to 2. Honestly have no clue who it'll be, but I do think it should be either Sean, Tre or Caedin.
While Tre is severely limited, I do think there's value with him on the roster as a culture guy. He's embraced his role well (much better than Zaide).
Caedin is in his third year and has shown very little as a Big East player. I really think he was set up to fail which is a bummer for him. Clark could be a solid 10 minute lob threat/rim protector but that could be his ceiling.
Sean could be back for his senior year playing 8 minutes a game but I wouldn't count on him being a huge difference maker.
Needs:
-Senior scoring guard from a mid-major
-Jr/sr forward with a wide body and physical rebounding. It could be a role player from a power conference team that wants more minutes or a mid-major transfering up.
I think these at least 1 of these 2 additions would make a world of difference. It would open up Nigel's playmaking and allow Royce + Sheek to focus on scoring.
I'm liking what I see from Damarius, Adrian Stevens, and Phillips more and more. If Ian/Nash can bring outside shooting then we might not need backcourt help. No matter what, we need to bring in a big man
Quote from: Aircraftcarrier on January 16, 2026, 04:51:06 PMSeriously? A combo guard? They need an impact big man.
They need everything but a point guard.
Quote from: BM1090 on January 17, 2026, 01:58:17 AMThey need everything but a point guard.
... and a coaching staff that can evaluate major D1 talent.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on January 17, 2026, 06:59:33 AM... and a coaching staff that can evaluate major D1 talent.
...because the current staff is unwilling or incapable of evaluating major D1 talent. We are now a low major with a high major budget and resources. What is the solution?
Quote from: willie warrior on January 17, 2026, 11:20:03 AM...because the current staff is unwilling or incapable of evaluating major D1 talent. We are now a low major with a high major budget and resources. What is the solution?
Pull the bandaid like they did for football
Quote from: CountryRoads on January 16, 2026, 10:26:23 PMSounds like Iowa State or Wisconsin would be a better fit if that's the case. Janowski could team up with his Pewaukee teammate. That would be something.
He already has a great offer from Iowa St! Double the offer from St. Thomas. Likes playing there and teammates right now but that can change
So families of players at one school are telling their friends about offers and money that different schools have offered them in the middle of their season?
Quote from: wadesworld on January 18, 2026, 10:20:21 AMSo families of players at one school are telling their friends about offers and money that different schools have offered them in the middle of their season?
Since there really is no NCAA anymore anything goes, tampering now is part of the game
Quote from: BCHoopster on January 18, 2026, 11:57:41 AMSince there really is no NCAA anymore anything goes, tampering now is part of the game
Yup, there are no rules now. It truly is the Wild West. Reality.
Quote from: BCHoopster on January 18, 2026, 11:57:41 AMSince there really is no NCAA anymore anything goes, tampering now is part of the game
Some people in here don't like to acknowledge that.
Coaches saying tampering happens almost daily, isn't enough for them to believe it.
Typically when a school is looking for a new coach and is interested in a coach already under contract they talk to his representative or agent to gague if there is mutual interest.For some stupid reason this has been deemed to be ok.
Shaka will have to completely change his philosophy about negotiating with agents because most of the players have them and they should.We are talking about hundreds of thousands of dollars, and sometimes millions.How on earth is an 18 to 22 year old kid suppose to handle that.
Marquette lost Morillo to Illinois over this agent BS.
Yep this is something Ive been thinking about recently as well.
Shaka is going to add some guys through the portal, Im not worried about that. But theres a reason when guys enter the portal there are reports of where they are likely to go or their top few options. There is backchanneling going on right now through agents, parents, AAU coaches, etc. Thats the part of the game Im not sure Shaka will engage in. We have the money to be very competitive in the portal, but it may not matter if guys already have deals lined up with other schools before the portal opens.
Quote from: JTJ3 on January 18, 2026, 03:28:31 PMYep this is something Ive been thinking about recently as well.
Shaka is going to add some guys through the portal, Im not worried about that. But theres a reason when guys enter the portal there are reports of where they are likely to go or their top few options. There is backchanneling going on right now through agents, parents, AAU coaches, etc. Thats the part of the game Im not sure Shaka will engage in. We have the money to be very competitive in the portal, but it may not matter if guys already have deals lined up with other schools before the portal opens.
True, but it also maybe true that Shaka is already involved in contacting transfers.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on January 18, 2026, 04:16:30 PMTrue, but it also maybe true that Shaka is already involved in contacting transfers.
Oh for sure. Good chance he is. We just have no track record to look back on so how we portal this year is all a mystery still.
The funniest add would be dropping a bag for Blackwell from UW, but unfortunately it sounds like it will be Michigan or Duke. Either way the meltdown in Madison will be fun to watch. Hopefully he stays in the Big Ten.
Still 4 defenders.
Yea, I'll vote for best defender available regardless of position.
PG with size/combo guard. NJ will need help.
Quote from: BCHoopster on January 18, 2026, 11:57:41 AMSince there really is no NCAA anymore anything goes, tampering now is part of the game
Yep, Indiana football is the new model.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on January 20, 2026, 08:36:09 AMYep, Indiana football is the new model.
If they are, many of their transfers were from JMU and other G5 schools. A lot of two and three stars from what I read. Mendoza was not highly recruited MU doesn't have to get studs in the portal. They have to recognize growth and talent.
Quote from: wiscwarrior on January 20, 2026, 09:50:57 AMIf they are, many of their transfers were from JMU and other G5 schools. A lot of two and three stars from what I read. Mendoza was not highly recruited MU doesn't have to get studs in the portal. They have to recognize growth and talent.
"Production over potential" - Curt Cignetti
Quote from: wiscwarrior on January 20, 2026, 09:50:57 AMMU doesn't have to get studs in the portal. They have to recognize growth and talent.
OK Shaka. ;D
Alright, I've had my fun. Call them studs or whatever you like, but "growth" is not enough, and we DO need solid. proven transfers. Relying on growth as the primary M.O. is why we are where we are. I never thought I would hate that word.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 20, 2026, 10:03:07 AMOK Shaka. ;D
Alright, I've had my fun. Call them studs or whatever you like, but "growth" is not enough, and we DO need solid. proven transfers. Relying on growth as the primary M.O. is why we are where we are. I never thought I would hate that word.
100% agree - Shaka needs to be focusing on proven guys - not guys that need growing. Hence my production over potential quote above.
Quote from: wiscwarrior on January 20, 2026, 09:50:57 AMIf they are, many of their transfers were from JMU and other G5 schools. A lot of two and three stars from what I read. Mendoza was not highly recruited MU doesn't have to get studs in the portal. They have to recognize growth and talent.
He said he was a 2 star in HS and Miami rejected him as a walk on
I'd like a player along the lines of Prosper. And because I'll assume another scholly will open, I'd like a player along the lines of Ethan Happ (we're Vegas, right?) Other than his inability to shoot FT's...which despite being free points don't matter...Happ was solid on the blocks. Good rebounding, good defending.
Viper, in regards to a transfer like OMax, I loved Omax and thought he was NBA bound after the UNC loss. But, IMO, there is nowhere to put him.
Parham 6'8 (9?)
DO
Ian
Phillips
Walker
EJ
Egbuono
7 players in that size range already.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 20, 2026, 10:03:07 AMOK Shaka. ;D
Alright, I've had my fun. Call them studs or whatever you like, but "growth" is not enough, and we DO need solid. proven transfers. Relying on growth as the primary M.O. is why we are where we are. I never thought I would hate that word.
I guess my point was that they have to look at players on a lower level and recognize that growth has occurred to the point where they can be high major contributors. Growth has to have already happened.
We will be competing with at least 100 other programs for these same players so buckle up and hope someone is willing to open up their wallet.
I can't see James staying unless we bring in some talent for him to play with.
Quote from: illiniwarriors on January 20, 2026, 11:21:07 AMWe will be competing with at least 100 other programs for these same players so buckle up and hope someone is willing to open up their wallet.
I can't see James staying unless we bring in some talent for him to play with.
You may want to listen to NJ and what he had to say about MUBB last night
https://youtu.be/r0w_KBgxRbs?si=TFWb2z5pB0kIQ3QO
I lean he stays no matter what after what he said. But we do need 2-3 impactful xfers IMHO.
I've been tough on Shaka this year but big props for finding/signing James. Gives me more faith after the few dud recruiting classes he started with
Quote from: MUbiz on January 20, 2026, 11:24:44 AMYou may want to listen to NJ and what he had to say about MUBB last night
https://youtu.be/r0w_KBgxRbs?si=TFWb2z5pB0kIQ3QO
I lean he stays no matter what after what he said. But we do need 2-3 impactful xfers IMHO.
Thanks for the link. It sounds like he loves MU but loves Shaka more. If Shaka leaves..?
If Shaka returns, so will James.
There really is no reason to believe otherwise, but folks are free to all the evidence-free doom-and-gloom speculation that floats their boats!
"I will choose Marquette over any school. Shaka ... is a great human. I love him." - Nigel James
He ain't going anywhere, folks.
Quote from: mileskishnish72 on January 20, 2026, 12:15:33 PMThanks for the link. It sounds like he loves MU but loves Shaka more. If Shaka leaves..?
Seems like James is married to Shaka is what I gathered from that presser. So yeah, if Shaka goes, James does as well.
But if Shaka stays - and I assume he will, we won't have to worry about Slick Rick poaching James.
Quote from: illiniwarriors on January 20, 2026, 11:21:07 AMWe will be competing with at least 100 other programs for these same players so buckle up and hope someone is willing to open up their wallet.
I can't see James staying unless we bring in some talent for him to play with.
I just don't understand this attitude - it's clearly not rooted in reality.
While the RGV model has fairly earned the criticism it's received this season, I'd wager that the type of kids and families that are recruited via this model are less likely to cut bait and run because of tough times.
Some of these kids may want to see it through and achieve success together.
That's not to say Shaka doesn't need to add talent this offseason through the portal - he clearly does. And James will need to be compensated fairly, as well.
Stop being so soft. This program and school has a lot to offer. Marquette has yet to lose a highly regarded player to the portal and I don't expect that to begin this spring.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on January 20, 2026, 12:55:29 PMI just don't understand this attitude - it's clearly not rooted in reality.
While the RGV model has fairly earned the criticism it's received this season, I'd wager that the type of kids and families that are recruited via this model are less likely to cut bait and run because of tough times.
Some of these kids may want to see it through and achieve success together.
That's not to say Shaka doesn't need to add talent this offseason through the portal - he clearly does. And James will need to be compensated fairly, as well.
Stop being so soft. This program and school has a lot to offer. Marquette has yet to lose a highly regarded player to the portal and I don't expect that to begin this spring.
With the exception of NJ which Marquette players would be
highly regarded based on their performance on the court come this spring?
Quote from: MUbiz on January 20, 2026, 12:44:45 PMSeems like James is married to Shaka is what I gathered from that presser. So yeah, if Shaka goes, James does as well.
But if Shaka stays - and I assume he will, we won't have to worry about Slick Rick poaching James.
So, who should we or any other school poach off Slick Rick's team. Now that would be poetic justice.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on January 20, 2026, 01:33:28 PMSo, who should we or any other school poach off Slick Rick's team. Now that would be poetic justice.
You're local, and I'm sure you have the Big Bucks to make it happen. Then wrap a ribbon around the guy and send him to Milwaukee at the Newark Airport as a present to Shaka.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on January 20, 2026, 01:33:28 PMSo, who should we or any other school poach off Slick Rick's team. Now that would be poetic justice.
How much eligibility does Zuby have left? :D
If Wisconsin can do it, two years in a row with Tonje and Boyd, think MU can do as well.
RGV goes both ways.
If I'm annoyed Shaka has remained loyal to Tre, Caedin, etc. then it's only logical I have faith he's able to retain guys like Nigel. And unlike his refusal to use the portal, we DO have years of evidence he's been able to hold onto Kolek, Oso, Kam when they undoubtedly had huge offers elsewhere. As long as Shaka is here, I'm not worried about Nigel leaving at all.
Love that Shaka is cutting down the rotation (Caedin played 2 minutes, Tre played 4 regulation minutes, 6 after Chase fouled out in OT) and Royce and Damarius have both excelled in larger roles in conjunction. That's an awesome development in conference play.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on January 20, 2026, 01:18:09 PMWith the exception of NJ which Marquette players would be highly regarded based on their performance on the court come this spring?
I don't think any other player, as it stands today, would command a massive payment on the open market.
However, with the way Royce has been trending (at least offensively), it's possible he could have some nice opportunities.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on January 20, 2026, 02:20:33 PMI don't think any other player, as it stands today, would command a massive payment on the open market.
However, with the way Royce has been trending (at least offensively), it's possible he could have some nice opportunities.
Shaka and Royce package deal to Pitt???
Here's who I would like to be the top targets for wings and big men, if they're in the portal.
Wings
Jaidin Glover-Toscano
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5142608/jaiden-glover-toscano (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5142608/jaiden-glover-toscano)
Leon Bond III
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4838704/leon-bond-iii (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4838704/leon-bond-iii)
Jaden Schutt
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4712846/jaden-schutt (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4712846/jaden-schutt)
Big Men
Keanu Dawes
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5060685/keanu-dawes (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5060685/keanu-dawes)
ND Okafor
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5105588/nd-okafor (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5105588/nd-okafor)
Jayden Hastings
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4685671/jayden-hastings (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4685671/jayden-hastings)
Egbuonu is always sharing posts about Ebuka Okorie. Maybe he can get Okorie to join him at Marquette.
Quote from: MU82 on January 20, 2026, 12:38:51 PM"I will choose Marquette over any school. Shaka ... is a great human. I love him." - Nigel James
He ain't going anywhere, folks.
Great to hear. This could turn around in a hurry next year.
I agree that MU has a great chance to keep James,but remember good players like to WIN.If Shaka doubles down on not using the portal James will be gone.All the kids want to make $$$$ and go to the NCAA T-ment.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on January 20, 2026, 01:18:09 PMWith the exception of NJ which Marquette players would be highly regarded based on their performance on the court come this spring?
1) Obviously NJ
2) Stevens, a freshman with his efficiency starting at the high major level would generate demand.
3) Parham, he's a high major player. Probably best suited as a sixth man, but would get offers after two relatively successful seasons.
4) Owens, someone would bet on the upside.
5) Clark, the efficiency, rebounding, and seven-foot frame would get interest.
Quote from: tower912 on January 20, 2026, 10:46:53 AMViper, in regards to a transfer like OMax, I loved Omax and thought he was NBA bound after the UNC loss. But, IMO, there is nowhere to put him.
Parham 6'8 (9?)
DO
Ian
Phillips
Walker
EJ
Egbuono
7 players in that size range already.
good point...I forgot about the RS's. (Hope I'm wrong but my gut says Phillips might depart. I thought he'd get more PT of late. Maybe Friday he'll get some run)
Quote from: Viper on January 20, 2026, 07:36:35 PMgood point...I forgot about the RS's. (Hope I'm wrong but my gut says Phillips might depart. I thought he'd get more PT of late. Maybe Friday he'll get some run)
Defense has kept Phillips from playing a lot. Then again, defense is bad in general. But
When Providence fires English, I'll take #55 Oswin Erhunmwunse
Nick Janowski had 23 points 5 Rebs and 2 Assists in Saint Thomas Win today. Nolan Minessale is averaging over 20 points 4 rebounds and 4 assisted a game. Saint Thomas is 17-5 with a better NET than Marquette. Again Janowski had 3 D2 State Titles in his time at Pewaukee and almost a 4th. And Minessale had a D1 State Title at Marquette and was MVP. And also Won MVP of the Portland Invitational this year.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 24, 2026, 04:32:24 PMNick Janowski had 23 points 5 Rebs and 2 Assists in Saint Thomas Win today. Nolan Minessale is averaging over 20 points 4 rebounds and 4 assisted a game. Saint Thomas is 17-5 with a better NET than Marquette. Again Janowski had 3 D2 State Titles in his time at Pewaukee and almost a 4th. And Minessale had a D1 State Title at Marquette and was MVP. And also Won MVP of the Portland Invitational this year.
How much did Iowa State offer both of them again?
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 24, 2026, 04:32:24 PMNick Janowski had 23 points 5 Rebs and 2 Assists in Saint Thomas Win today. Nolan Minessale is averaging over 20 points 4 rebounds and 4 assisted a game. Saint Thomas is 17-5 with a better NET than Marquette. Again Janowski had 3 D2 State Titles in his time at Pewaukee and almost a 4th. And Minessale had a D1 State Title at Marquette and was MVP. And also Won MVP of the Portland Invitational this year.
Proving their Big East-ness. The invite is coming any day now.
Seems like the writing is on the wall for Norman. Assuming at minimum we have two open slots and hopefully at least three by season's end. Anyone feel differently about Tre?
Tre and Sean
Quote from: JTJ3 on January 28, 2026, 12:52:21 PMTre and Sean
Going to need some seniors. A C to share duties with Sheek and a CG that can backup Nigel, plus play with him at times, are my top two wants.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on January 28, 2026, 01:09:43 PMGoing to need some seniors. A C to share duties with Sheek and a CG that can backup Nigel, plus play with him at times, are my top two wants.
Same, but I dont care what year they are. Just get the best big and the best big guard that fit with the rest of the roster.
Quote from: JTJ3 on January 28, 2026, 01:32:09 PMSame, but I dont care what year they are. Just get the best big and the best big guard that fit with the rest of the roster.
Though, do need to consider how a 2 or 3 year guy might affect the '27 recruiting class. That's going to be important. A non senior would need to be of very good quality and not just rotation support.
After last night win, no portal, 🤙🏼 stays stubborn
If Tre and Sean were to leave, that would mean that there was a big hole at guard. With Zaide having already left. That is the scenario I have thought all along could lead to Shaka hitting the portal. Lots of departures at one position. And as I have said before, combo guards.
A backup guard will not
Be hard to find, the center will be a challenge!
Quote from: BCHoopster on January 28, 2026, 02:31:55 PMA backup guard will not
Be hard to find, the center will be a challenge!
Last spring, lots of Scoopers thought Owen Freeman would make us a Sweet 16 team this season.
Sat and spoke with Nolan's college roommate last night. Nolan absolutely loves Marquette. Feel if the offers are close Nolan will pick Marquette. After texting with a family member feel Nick is more focused on Marquette and the in state to the west of us but not sure.
Quote from: MU82 on January 28, 2026, 02:43:47 PMLast spring, lots of Scoopers thought Owen Freeman would make us a Sweet 16 team this season.
Someone said last night Creighton offered more money
Quote from: MU82 on January 28, 2026, 02:43:47 PMLast spring, lots of Scoopers thought Owen Freeman would make us a Sweet 16 team this season.
He may have. Freeman has been injured. He had a torn meniscus and surgery over the summer and didn't get back on the court until October. Granted, the way he was injured was due to idiocy.
https://hurrdatsports.com/creighton/mens-basketball/owen-freeman-working-toward-return-to-court-for-creighton-mens-basketball/
Quote from: BCHoopster on January 28, 2026, 02:31:55 PMA backup guard will not
Be hard to find, the center will be a challenge!
Maybe. We don't need to find a Tarris Reed, but a Drayton Jones or Stephon Payne. Those weren't big money acquisitions.
If no one else leaves, and they are confident about Sean's health, I predict nobody from the portal. If Sean and/or Tre leave, 1 or 2 guards. If there is a diaspora, all bets are off. Just a hunch and I have been wrong before.
Quote from: tower912 on January 28, 2026, 06:07:31 PMIf no one else leaves, and they are confident about Sean's health, I predict nobody from the portal. If Sean and/or Tre leave, 1 or 2 guards. If there is a diaspora, all bets are off. Just a hunch and I have been wrong before.
I just don't see going into next season with Sheek, Clark, and Hamilton as the options at the 5.
Sean coming back to play behind Nigel also doesn't make much sense to me.
If no one leaves, IMO the 15th spot has to be a guard. I would rather run CH, Josh, Sheek, and occasionally Royce out there than have AS, NJ, Sean, and Tre as the only true guards. There is an abundance of wings.
Quote from: tower912 on January 28, 2026, 06:22:01 PMIf no one leaves, IMO the 15th spot has to be a guard. I would rather run CH, Josh, Sheek, and occasionally Royce out there than have AS, NJ, Sean, and Tre as the only true guards. There is an abundance of wings.
You've watched that Buffalo Wild Wings commercial with the talking buffalo too many times.
I think that despite Sean (and his mom) singing the praises of Marquette and Shaka, it is probably in Sean's best interests to go to another school. I have a difficult time believing that Sean could be OK with being the backup PG.
I really hope that a big, experienced 5 is brought in. How many games do we have to lose, getting beat up anywhere near the basket, before we finally have a guy who can handle the position? Hamilton? You're joking, right?
I get it. But teams, and even MU teams, and even MU teams under Shaka, have been successful with merely adequate play by the bigs. No team is ever successful with poor guard play. And we all have learned what untimely injuries to guards look like.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on January 28, 2026, 05:58:10 PMHe may have. Freeman has been injured. He had a torn meniscus and surgery over the summer and didn't get back on the court until October. Granted, the way he was injured was due to idiocy.
https://hurrdatsports.com/creighton/mens-basketball/owen-freeman-working-toward-return-to-court-for-creighton-mens-basketball/
As hard as it is to believe, Freeman would have made our defense even worse.
Quote from: tower912 on January 28, 2026, 06:55:35 PMI get it. But teams, and even MU teams, and even MU teams under Shaka, have been successful with merely adequate play by the bigs. No team is ever successful with poor guard play. And we all have learned what untimely injuries to guards look like.
It's a guard's game
Quote from: tower912 on January 28, 2026, 06:07:31 PMIf no one else leaves, and they are confident about Sean's health, I predict nobody from the portal. If Sean and/or Tre leave, 1 or 2 guards. If there is a diaspora, all bets are off. Just a hunch and I have been wrong before.
... Gotta gave some experienced help in the paint. Clark has some potential, but still needs another full year, imo. Hamilton we've seen enough of. Sheek? RS Freshman. Shaka, go shopping!
Quote from: Viper on January 28, 2026, 07:41:45 PM... Gotta gave some experienced help in the paint. Clark has some potential, but still needs another full year, imo. Hamilton we've seen enough of. Sheek? RS Freshman. Shaka, go shopping!
🤙🏼 will go Walmart
Quote from: tower912 on January 28, 2026, 06:55:35 PMI get it. But teams, and even MU teams, and even MU teams under Shaka, have been successful with merely adequate play by the bigs. No team is ever successful with poor guard play. And we all have learned what untimely injuries to guards look like.
Then Shaka better hit the portal and find an adequate big.
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on January 28, 2026, 07:48:09 PMThen Shaka better hit the portal and find an adequate big.
Open your wallet....
Quote from: tower912 on January 28, 2026, 06:55:35 PMI get it. But teams, and even MU teams, and even MU teams under Shaka, have been successful with merely adequate play by the bigs. No team is ever successful with poor guard play. And we all have learned what untimely injuries to guards look like.
I'd be very surprised if we only have one open scholarship this spring.
You are right about guard play and guard depth.
I also have high hopes for Sheek but it will be his first time playing at this level and he still seems very thin. I'm also more than fine with continuing to keep Clark because that length can be very valuable.
But finding a starting center with one year of eligibility for next season just seems like such an obvious need to be a tourney team again.
Chol Machot is 7-footer at College of Charleston. From Australia, played high school ball in North Carolina, spent a year at Florida juco.
He's in his first year at College of Charleston, where he's playing 25 minutes a game and is averaging 9.6 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 2.5 blocks. Seems to get in foul trouble. Not a 3-point shooter, taking almost one a game and shooting 32%.
He has two years of eligibility remaining after this season. Has anyone seen him play?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on January 28, 2026, 07:57:08 PMfinding a starting center with one year of eligibility for next season just seems like such an obvious need to be a tourney team again.
This.
Quote from: tower912 on January 28, 2026, 06:07:31 PMIf no one else leaves, and they are confident about Sean's health, I predict nobody from the portal. If Sean and/or Tre leave, 1 or 2 guards. If there is a diaspora, all bets are off. Just a hunch and I have been wrong before.
If we bring in no one from the portal Shaka will almost certainly lose his job at the end of next season. Simple as that.
Quote from: tower912 on January 28, 2026, 06:55:35 PMI get it. But teams, and even MU teams, and even MU teams under Shaka, have been successful with merely adequate play by the bigs. No team is ever successful with poor guard play. And we all have learned what untimely injuries to guards look like.
This isn't a dig at you, but want to clarify we've been successful DESPITE merely adequate play from bigs. We should have room to fill out front and backcourt and in my opinion, Shaka has to find success in both areas.
Quote from: Tha Hound on January 28, 2026, 08:53:12 PMIf we bring in no one from the portal Shaka will almost certainly lose his job at the end of next season. Simple as that.
Not if next season goes much better or can you predict the future.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 28, 2026, 04:26:32 PMSat and spoke with Nolan's college roommate last night. Nolan absolutely loves Marquette. Feel if the offers are close Nolan will pick Marquette. After texting with a family member feel Nick is more focused on Marquette and the in state to the west of us but not sure.
A local HS BB coach told me something very similar. I think there's a really good chance we get Nolan unless Shaka just decides not to offer him.
In which case Shaka should be canned.
Quote from: SaveOD238 on January 28, 2026, 09:32:25 PMA local HS BB coach told me something very similar. I think there's a really good chance we get Nolan unless Shaka just decides not to offer him.
In which case Shaka should be canned.
LOL
Quote from: Newsdreams on January 28, 2026, 09:31:01 PMNot if next season goes much better or can you predict the future.
Don't need a crystal ball to know despite some very promising talent, without impact additions we likely don't have enough to compete next year. And if we don't compete next year he is gone. Don't let the Creighton game cloud the big picture.
Quote from: Tha Hound on January 28, 2026, 09:34:44 PMDon't need a crystal ball to know despite some very promising talent, without impact additions we likely don't have enough to compete next year. Don't let the Creighton game cloud the big picture.
Ding. Ding. Ding.
Quote from: Tha Hound on January 28, 2026, 09:34:44 PMDon't need a crystal ball to know despite some very promising talent, without impact additions we likely don't have enough to compete next year. And if we don't compete next year he is gone. Don't let the Creighton game cloud the big picture.
Ok Willard
Quote from: Tha Hound on January 28, 2026, 09:38:08 PMDon't know what that means but go Marquette.
I wouldn't think you would be so lost...
Quote from: Newsdreams on January 28, 2026, 09:39:29 PMI wouldn't think you would be so lost...
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support/in-crisis
Quote from: Tha Hound on January 28, 2026, 09:43:00 PMhttps://www.samhsa.gov/find-support/in-crisis
So so lost......
I am agnostic about transfers. I am always rooting for the guys wearing the MU jersey to grow as people and players, whether they are at MU one year or 4. If Shaka uses the portal, welcome to MU.
I don't think it is an accident that Shaka told Katz and Katz reported during the Creighton game that Shaka really wants to keep the 11 freshmen and sophomores. Like I didn't think it was an accident last year when Raftery reported that Ben was playing through shin splints.
To further parse it, it does not include 'juniors'.
If the juniors leave, there will be a void of old guys and a shortage of guards. This is the scenario I have always thought could force Shaka to the portal.
Quote from: tower912 on January 29, 2026, 06:27:52 AMI am agnostic about transfers. I.am always rooting for the guys wearing g the MU jersey to grow as people and players, whether they are at MU one year or 4. If Shaka uses the portal, welcome to MU.
I don't think it is an accident that Shaka told Katz and Katz reported during the Creighton game that Shaka really wants to keep the 11 freshmen and sophomores. Like I didn't think it was an accident last year when Raftery reported that Ben was playing through shin splints.
To further parse it, it does not include 'juniors'.
If the juniors leave, there will be a void of old guys and a shortage of guards. This is the scenario I have always thought could force Shaka to the portal.
There are actually 12 under classmen on the scholarship table. He said he would
really like to, which may indicate not definitely keep, if the quote is correct. Perhaps the rest of the season will determine who stays from the 7 underclassmen eligibility wise currently playing, as I doubt he'll cut any of the incoming 26 players. As you say it will force him to look elsewhere to fill in some gaps and that is assuming Sean and Tre are leaving.
I just hope the 26 class has another NJ caliber player in it.
Odd, with Tre and Sean being juniors and Chase and Ben being seniors.
Quote from: tower912 on January 29, 2026, 07:52:48 AMOdd, with Tre and Sean being juniors and Chase and Ben being seniors.
So you're saying Tre and Sean are leaving based on Shaka' s quote? Then which underclassmen is leaving as he stated 11. Too much reading between the lines here if you ask me.
Nope. With Shaka, I am going to have to see it before I believe it. But if they do leave, and Shaka uses the portal, I hope it is for more guards, not more bigs.
Quote from: tower912 on January 29, 2026, 06:27:52 AMI am agnostic about transfers. I am always rooting for the guys wearing the MU jersey to grow as people and players, whether they are at MU one year or 4. If Shaka uses the portal, welcome to MU.
I don't think it is an accident that Shaka told Katz and Katz reported during the Creighton game that Shaka really wants to keep the 11 freshmen and sophomores. Like I didn't think it was an accident last year when Raftery reported that Ben was playing through shin splints.
To further parse it, it does not include 'juniors'.
If the juniors leave, there will be a void of old guys and a shortage of guards. This is the scenario I have always thought could force Shaka to the portal.
This is the scenario everyone on the board is talking about. At least two juniors will be gone (Zaide and one of Caedin, Sean or Tre). The portal will be used. There would be no reason not to keep the freshman and sophomores. They have shown they can compete and look to have talent that Shaka can develop. The juniors do not have talent that can be developed into anything more than bit role players. I think he keeps Caedin around as he seems to think he can get more out of him. Maybe Tre for defense. Sean, I think will leave in his own. And I agree that we need a combo guard because of it.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on January 29, 2026, 08:18:18 AMThis is the scenario everyone on the board is talking about. At least two juniors will be gone (Zaide and one of Caedin, Sean or Tre). The portal will be used. There would be no reason not to keep the freshman and sophomores. They have shown they can compete and look to have talent that Shaka can develop. The juniors do not have talent that can be developed into anything more than bit role players. I think he keeps Caedin around as he seems to think he can get more out of him. Maybe Tre for defense. Sean, I think will leave in his own. And I agree that we need a combo guard because of it.
I get what you are saying, but Hamilton and Norman? Enough! This is an excellent example of where RGV as an operating system is flawed. How many more seasons waiting for the GROWTH of these two guys to kick in? I think Sean is a different situation in the that he will never be the starting PG as he expected to be after recovery.
Quote from: tower912 on January 29, 2026, 08:11:02 AMNope. With Shaka, I am going to have to see it before I believe it. But if they do leave, and Shaka uses the portal, I hope it is for more guards, not more bigs.
We are in agreement. The off season will tell us a lot.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 29, 2026, 08:31:42 AMI get what you are saying, but Hamilton and Norman? Enough! This is an excellent example of where RGV as an operating system is flawed. How many more seasons waiting for the GROWTH of these two guys to kick in? I think Sean is a different situation in the that he will never be the starting PG as he expected to be after recovery.
I'm with you, I'm just thinking of how Shaka might look at it. Caedin will be behind a portal big, Sheek and Josh next year. Tre will continue to have the same role as this year but maybe even more diminished. I don't think Shaka will ask them to leave though.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on January 29, 2026, 08:47:04 AMI'm with you, I'm just thinking of how Shaka might look at it. Caedin will be behind a portal big, Sheek and Josh next year. Tre will continue to have the same role as this year but maybe even more diminished. I don't think Shaka will ask them to leave though.
The bolded is where I have a problem with RGV as an operating system. It seems as if the decision to leave is entirely up to the player.
The coach should have the final say.
Anywhere from 0-3 additional departures wouldn't surprise me. As it stands we have one opening. Use that for the best defensive player available regardless of position, regardless of class. This team has shown an ability to score even with Chase/Ben's individual regression Shooting percentage wise, we have not shown a consistent ability to get stops.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 29, 2026, 08:51:36 AMThe bolded is where I have a problem with RGV as an operating system. It seems as if the decision to leave is entirely up to the player. [i]The coach[/i] should have the final say.
Scoop*
In terms of starting positions, I think a starting transfer with proven experience and production for the 3 and 5 are a must.
I would suggest taking 1 of the following for the starting 3 and 5:
3Jaiden Glover-Toscano (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5142608/jaiden-glover-toscano)
(https://i.postimg.cc/JnybPXZ7/photo-200.jpg)
or
Nolan Minessale (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5241415/nolan-minessale)
(https://i.postimg.cc/ZKmdy27K/photo-400.jpg)
5ND Okafor (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5105588/nd-okafor)
(https://i.postimg.cc/FHBzGBZB/photo-800.jpg)
or
Jayden Hastings (https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/4685671/jayden-hastings)
(https://i.postimg.cc/SspyvFz9/photo-1000.jpg)
A starting line up next year of the following would be formidable:
G Nigel James Jr
(Soph)G Adrian Stevens
(Soph)G Jaiden Glover-Toscano
(Junior) or Nolan Minessale
(Junior)F Royce Parham
(Junior)F ND Okafor
(Senior) or Jayden Hastings
(Junior)
I cannot imagine a scenario where Shaka brings in a wing forward.
Owens
Miletic
Phillips
Johnston
Egbuono
Walker.
All roughly the same height.
Give me a PG with size who can also play off the ball. Guard depth is crucial.
Quote from: tower912 on January 31, 2026, 11:05:27 AMI cannot imagine a scenario where Shaka brings in a wing forward.
Owens
Miletic
Phillips
Johnston
Egbuono
Walker.
All roughly the same height.
Give me a PG with size who can also play off the ball. Guard depth is crucial.
Depends how many spots are available. Owens will be the only one with truly meaningful playing time under his belt. Phillips a bit, but he's still very raw.
We are sacrificing a year basketball Win wise. Which should not be forgotten.
Will root for players but Not root for individual players over the Team Results.
Reasonable minds may disagree but that is how I feel. Am not sure about RGV feel we need transfers.
Quote from: tower912 on January 31, 2026, 11:05:27 AMI cannot imagine a scenario where Shaka brings in a wing forward.
Owens
Miletic
Phillips
Johnston
Egbuono
Walker.
All roughly the same height.
Give me a PG with size who can also play off the ball. Guard depth is crucial.
(https://i.imgflip.com/aiwq1i.jpg)
This team needs a playable big in the worst way now and next year
Quote from: tower912 on January 31, 2026, 11:05:27 AMI cannot imagine a scenario where Shaka brings in a wing forward.
Owens
Miletic
Phillips
Johnston
Egbuono
Walker.
All roughly the same height.
Give me a PG with size who can also play off the ball. Guard depth is crucial.
I agree wholeheartedly but there also needs to be a tranfer big in addition to a guard. Absolutely can't go into next year with Caedin and Josh and Sheek as the three bigs. That would be throwing away another year and completely unnecessary. This team can be good next year. Need two transfers not one.
MU has a bunch of wing , big guard / small forward types for next year. Yes.
And only Owens has played any real minutes - if any minutes at all.
Nolan Minessale is better than any of
them. Way better.
Quote from: tower912 on January 31, 2026, 11:05:27 AMI cannot imagine a scenario where Shaka brings in a wing forward.
Owens
Miletic
Phillips
Johnston
Egbuono
Walker.
All roughly the same height.
Give me a PG with size who can also play off the ball. Guard depth is crucial.
Shaka experimented with Stevens playing some point. He did a solid job. They could use another player for that role who can create a shot.
Quote from: Zog from Margo on January 31, 2026, 05:12:06 PMShaka experimented with Stevens playing some point. He did a solid job. They could use another player for that role who can create a shot.
Stevens played point guard for Bullis in high school.
For the transfer wish list I'm wishing for someone with cebollas in round 10. This current group has been a gagathon at the end of tight games this year save DJJ's FT's vs. PC.
Has anyone discussed Nick Janowski? I've seen Minessale but why not try and get both? Janowski is 6'4" shooting 36% from 3 could probably play off ball with Nigel or backup PG. If you can push Jones and Norman out you'd be looking at
James Jr.
Stevens
Minessale
Parham
Portal Big
Janowski
Phillips
Owens
Egbuonu
Pearson
Miletic
Walker
Johnston
Hamilton
Clark
Quote from: Zog from Margo on January 31, 2026, 05:12:06 PMShaka experimented with Stevens playing some point. He did a solid job. They could use another player for that role who can create a shot.
here"s the guy for backup PG:
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5314722/joel-foxwell
some other options who wouldn't break the bank considering we're a poverty program right now:
https://ballislife.com/news/ncaa/mid-major-poy-ladder-january-16/
Any international players worth a look?
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 02, 2026, 07:40:27 AMHas anyone discussed Nick Janowski? I've seen Minessale but why not try and get both? Janowski is 6'4" shooting 36% from 3 could probably play off ball with Nigel or backup PG. If you can push Jones and Norman out you'd be looking at
James Jr.
Stevens
Minessale
Parham
Portal Big
Janowski
Phillips
Owens
Egbuonu
Pearson
Miletic
Walker
Johnston
Hamilton
Clark
Janowski is a scorer. Minessale is the one we need more because he can dribble and create. He'd slide over to PG when Nigel needs a break.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on February 02, 2026, 08:19:52 AMhere"s the guy for backup PG:
https://www.espn.com/mens-college-basketball/player/_/id/5314722/joel-foxwell
some other options who wouldn't break the bank considering we're a poverty program right now:
https://ballislife.com/news/ncaa/mid-major-poy-ladder-january-16/
You think Joel Foxwell is going to turn down starting offers to back up Nigel James???
And therein lies the rub. Willing to come to MU for the flat fee to back up NJjr.
Any word on Oswin Erhunmwunse as a potential portal add?
Seems like a great stopgap while Sheek gets the lay of the land playing college ball, ala Kur and Oso in 2021-2022.
Quote from: onepost on February 02, 2026, 11:19:28 AMAny word on Oswin Erhunmwunse as a potential portal add?
Seems like a great stopgap while Sheek gets the lay of the land playing college ball, ala Kur and Oso in 2021-2022.
That would be a nice guy to add.
He's probably getting paid over a million from Friar Country though. We aren't forking over that kind of cash to a guy that hasn't "been a part of our culture" as Shaka puts it. Unless he totally backtracks.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 02, 2026, 11:24:02 AMThat would be a nice guy to add.
He's probably getting paid over a million from Friar Country though. We aren't forking over that kind of cash to a guy that hasn't "been a part of our culture" as Shaka puts it. Unless he totally backtracks.
That's a great point. Minessale is definitely my #1 add as it stands now.
But we need talented size down low in the worst way.
I just looked at his recruiting page and it actually looks like we were one of his first offers!
For most that would probably be a good thing but Shaka seems like a grudge guy. Choosing Providence over Marquette probably eliminates him as a target rather than enhance his ability to be a target of Shaka lol. You would think if he was good enough for the culture then, why wouldn't he be now? But who knows.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 02, 2026, 11:30:06 AMI just looked at his recruiting page and it actually looks like we were one of his first offers!
For most that would probably be a good thing but Shaka seems like a grudge guy. Choosing Providence over Marquette probably eliminates him as a target rather than enhance his ability to be a target of Shaka lol. You would think if he was good enough for the culture then, why wouldn't he be now? But who knows.
Right, which is why after Shaka struck out with Oso at Texas he told him he wasn't welcome to stay at MU.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 02, 2026, 11:30:06 AMI just looked at his recruiting page and it actually looks like we were one of his first offers!
For most that would probably be a good thing but Shaka seems like a grudge guy. Choosing Providence over Marquette probably eliminates him as a target rather than enhance his ability to be a target of Shaka lol. You would think if he was good enough for the culture then, why wouldn't he be now? But who knows.
Seems like a grudge guy? Where do you come up with this crap?
Quote from: wadesworld on February 02, 2026, 12:12:37 PMSeems like a grudge guy? Where do you come up with this crap?
His open stubbornness about not dealing with agents. He openly admitted to turning away from good players that reached out to come here when they talk about money.
If you're not willing to play that game in the modern era then this is what you'll get more often than you would like. That's stubborn grudge-like behavior.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 02, 2026, 12:17:41 PMHis open stubbornness about not dealing with agents. He openly admitted to turning away from good players that reached out to come here when they talk about money.
If you're not willing to play that game in the modern era then this is what you'll get more often than you would like. That's stubborn grudge-like behavior.
Without my agreeing or disagreeing with your two words, grudge and stubbornness are
not interchangeable words, and your attempt at linking them is no better. Stubborn grudge-like behavior? ::) ;D
Separate the two words and it's a fair discussion. Again-I'm neither agreeing nor disagreeing.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on February 02, 2026, 12:22:17 PMWithout my agreeing or disagreeing with your two words, grudge and stubbornness are not interchangeable words, and your attempt at linking them is no better. Stubborn grudge-like behavior? ::) ;D
It seems to me they are one in the same with Shaka. He holds having an agent against a kid like one would hold a grudge.
It's baffling that he would close the door on so many athletes who have these advisors. Especially when the best of the best will obviously have agents. So we won't take transfers but we also eliminate ourselves from the best high school talent. This is where we end up.
Quote from: tower912 on January 31, 2026, 11:05:27 AMGive me a PG with size who can also play off the ball. Guard depth is crucial.
Joseph Charty, comin right up!
So how many spots do we think will be open?
I personally think we will end up with 4 openings:
Lowery, Norman, Jones, Hamilton or Clark
Maybe that's wishful thinking. Norman seems as good as gone. I feel for the guy that he just can't stay healthy, but Jones has played about 20 games in 3 years and got Wally Pipp'd. Sheek is the future of the C position but he's a string bean and there's no point in keeping Hamilton AND Clark. I'd love to keep Clark and see Caedin exit stage left but who knows.
I'll be fine 3 openings and thrilled with 4 openings.
Quote from: onepost on February 02, 2026, 01:07:38 PMSo how many spots do we think will be open?
I personally think we will end up with 4 openings:
Lowery, Norman, Jones, Hamilton or Clark
Maybe that's wishful thinking. Norman seems as good as gone. I feel for the guy that he just can't stay healthy, but Jones has played about 20 games in 3 years and got Wally Pipp'd. Sheek is the future of the C position but he's a string bean and there's no point in keeping Hamilton AND Clark. I'd love to keep Clark and see Caedin exit stage left but who knows.
I'll be fine 3 openings and thrilled with 4 openings.
If the staff leaves it up to the players maybe one more.
If they take matters into their own hands there should be at least 2 more openings to give us 3 spots.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 02, 2026, 12:26:03 PMIt seems to me they are one in the same with Shaka. He holds having an agent against a kid like one would hold a grudge.
It's baffling that he would close the door on so many athletes who have these advisors. Especially when the best of the best will obviously have agents. So we won't take transfers but we also eliminate ourselves from the best high school talent. This is where we end up.
Yeah I forgot he told Alex Egbuonu Marquette is no longer interested once Alex announced he had signed an agent.
He literally advised Kolek to get an agent.
You imagine some crazy stuff sometimes.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 02, 2026, 12:26:03 PMIt seems to me they are one in the same with Shaka.
::) :o ;D
Okaaay.
Maybe I am missing something. Posters keep bringing up this guy Minessale and now others. Has he officially entered the portal or stated he is going to enter the portal? What about the others being brought up now? Or is the context of the postings being if he enters, will he/they be a good fit.
Quote from: nyg on February 02, 2026, 01:49:19 PMMaybe I am missing something. Posters keep bringing up this guy Minessale and now others. Has he officially entered the portal or stated he is going to enter the portal? What about the others being brought up now? Or is the context of the postings being if he enters, will he/they be a good fit.
He's from Milwaukee, went to Marquette High, plays in a low major conference and is productive at that level, and his family apparently whispered into MUMike's ear that he has a big offer from Iowa State but he and his family love Marquette.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 02, 2026, 01:12:17 PMIf the staff leaves it up to the players maybe one more.
If they take matters into their own hands there should be at least 2 more openings to give us 3 spots.
This is where the uncertainty of Shaka's evolution comes into play. It is clear that Shaka has been biased towards his own (and his assistant coaches') assessment of recruits and his ability to develop guys. At the same time, Shaka has implied that he would use the transfer portal if positions open up (and he did in his first year, then after Lewis left--though Wrightsil didn't exactly work out).
But, it has also seemed that Shaka continued to invest exclusively in development, by not saying after a year or two, "well, I don't see this working out going forward." (Though maybe he did that with Al Amadou.)
As this season has shown, that assessment and development are not guaranteed, and he'll need either notable roster turnover or remarkable development for next year to exceed this year.
Ultimately, is he going to be willing to either winnow the chaff from the team (ie, ask/tell players to move on to other places) in order to have additional roster spaces (that would hopefully be filled by transfers), or is he going to double down on his commitment to development? Said differently, is he so committed to relationships and to supporting his players that he'll be willing to keep guys (who may not play much) just because those guys want to stay, perhaps at a cost of a better season next year, with more victories than this year?
As I've said, I hope Shaka tells at least two current roster players that they should leave the program, giving him at least 3 open scholarships heading into the off-season. And, I'll be totally fine if the public explanation (spin) on that so-and-so is heading to somewhere that they can expand their wings and move forward with their b-ball "careers" on a new path is for their own development and growth, and the relationship between Shaka and that player will remain strong.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 02, 2026, 01:56:11 PMHe's from Milwaukee, went to Marquette High, plays in a low major conference and is productive at that level, and his family apparently whispered into MUMike's ear that he has a big offer from Iowa State but he and his family love Marquette.
So no. Thanks, was curious. Argumentaive postings over complete speculation and whispers. I'm sure others here will just wait until the portal opens.
His next whisper will be he heard Cam Boozer might not go to draft and loves Shaka's RGV philosophy.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 02, 2026, 01:56:11 PMHe's from Milwaukee, went to Marquette High, plays in a low major conference and is productive at that level, and his family apparently whispered into MUMike's ear that he has a big offer from Iowa State but he and his family love Marquette.
Haha yeah the Iowa State stuff and all the whispers from him are funny.
But from what I have heard recently, lets just say Shaka and staff are very aware of Minessale... who he is, how good he is, the fact he's gonna portal and his ties to Marquette. Im still not sure I believe we'll get him, but the staff is well aware of him already, so including him specifically in these kinds of topics isnt unrealistic at all.
Quote from: nyg on February 02, 2026, 02:05:02 PMSo no. Thanks, was curious. Argumentaive postings over complete speculation and whispers. I'm sure others here will just wait until the portal opens.
His next whisper will be he heard Cam Boozer might not go to draft and loves Shaka's RGV philosophy.
It's literally in a thread titled "2026 Transfer Portal Wishlist." There are very few players ACTUALLY available right now. It's just people opining how many players they would like, what positions or skillsets they would like those players to have/be, or potential names from mid or low majors that might make sense or fit. Minessale is at least from Milwaukee so there's more of a "connection" than some of the other names listed. And chances are pretty dang high that he'll 1) get paid more by a high major and 2) take his chances at proving he belongs as a high major player after this year.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 02, 2026, 02:12:55 PMIt's literally in a thread titled "2026 Transfer Portal Wishlist." There are very few players ACTUALLY available right now. It's just people opining how many players they would like, what positions or skillsets they would like those players to have/be, or potential names from mid or low majors that might make sense or fit. Minessale is at least from Milwaukee so there's more of a "connection" than some of the other names listed. And chances are pretty dang high that he'll 1) get paid more by a high major and 2) take his chances at proving he belongs as a high major player after this year.
Sounds good
I do not understand the Minessale love on this board. MUBB already is stacked with wings and Minessale is a 29.4% 3 point shooter. I guess if we want a local kid who shoots sub 30% from 3, he is the guy.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 02, 2026, 02:54:21 PMI do not understand the Minessale love on this board. MUBB already is stacked with wings and Minessale is a 29.4% 3 point shooter. I guess if we want a local kid who shoots sub 30% from 3, he is the guy.
Yeah I agree. Give me a starting center and a backup point guard. And then a wing or a shooter depth piece if we need a third scholarship filled.
Quote from: BM1090 on February 02, 2026, 03:02:40 PMYeah I agree. Give me a starting center and a backup point guard. And then a wing or a shooter depth piece if we need a third scholarship filled.
100%. I want a Lamar Wilkerson type of guy - who can shoot 40% from 3. His xfer portal ranking was around 40 iirc. That is the type of guy I think we need to go after.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 02, 2026, 02:54:21 PMI do not understand the Minessale love on this board. MUBB already is stacked with wings and Minessale is a 29.4% 3 point shooter. I guess if we want a local kid who shoots sub 30% from 3, he is the guy.
I'm not sold on him being the answer but I'd definitely take him.
What wings do we have?
Stevens, Owens, Egbuonu who is really a mesh between wing and forward. Who else? None that must play as far as I can tell. Minessale would at least push Owens for a starting spot.
Center is by far the biggest need, but we need more than that.
I get the 3 point % concerns, but if thats the only thing youre looking at I would recommend watching him play first. There is a reason there are NBA scouts going to St Thomas games. He's a legit 6'5 with a 6'10+ wingspan. Finishes well at the rim, handles and creates well enough to handle some PG duties and can really lock in and use his length to make an impact defensively.
His ability to create would take a ton of pressure off Nigel, who's our only legit creator right now. I think we can all agree having a guy in Chases spot we can trust to make decisions handling the ball would have changed a lot of our games this season.
Projecting the shooting numbers to tick up a bit in a slightly reduced role here also wouldnt be surprising.
Quote from: JTJ3 on February 02, 2026, 03:25:41 PMI get the 3 point % concerns, but if thats the only thing youre looking at I would recommend watching him play first. There is a reason there are NBA scouts going to St Thomas games. He's a legit 6'5 with a 6'10+ wingspan. Finishes well at the rim, handles and creates well enough to handle some PG duties and can really lock in and use his length to make an impact defensively.
His ability to create would take a ton of pressure off Nigel, who's our only legit creator right now. I think we can all agree having a guy in Chases spot we can trust to make decisions handling the ball would have changed a lot of our games this season.
Projecting the shooting numbers to tick up a bit in a slightly reduced role here also wouldnt be surprising.
Not only reduced role, but (I haven't watch St. Thomas a ton) I imagine he would be getting a lot more open looks playing alongside Nigel. Nigel is going to command so much attention that having a shooter like Adrien and a slasher like Minessale could make for a pretty strong back court. Add Owens to that group and all of a sudden we have real depth again. It would be a good move, but can't be the only move!
Quote from: JTJ3 on February 02, 2026, 03:25:41 PMI get the 3 point % concerns, but if thats the only thing youre looking at I would recommend watching him play first. There is a reason there are NBA scouts going to St Thomas games. He's a legit 6'5 with a 6'10+ wingspan. Finishes well at the rim, handles and creates well enough to handle some PG duties and can really lock in and use his length to make an impact defensively.
His ability to create would take a ton of pressure off Nigel, who's our only legit creator right now. I think we can all agree having a guy in Chases spot we can trust to make decisions handling the ball would have changed a lot of our games this season.
Projecting the shooting numbers to tick up a bit in a slightly reduced role here also wouldnt be surprising.
This is fair, and secondary creators are always useful. Part of the reason 2022 and 2023 were so good is because we had 3-5 guys who could go get a basket or create one for others.
What difference does any of this make, with Shaka always holding a grudge?
Quote from: MU82 on February 02, 2026, 03:56:33 PMWhat difference does any of this make, with Shaka always holding a grudge?
I think even you would agree that another year like this and Shaka won't be here anymore. Maybe not though? I'll let you speak for yourself, so that would be the difference. For me, I believe Shaka wants to be here and for him to stay employed here he will have to loosen some of his personal restrictions on the portal and all that comes with it.
He had no pressure in years past because his teams won enough to keep the pressure off...even though the Sweet 16 team could have used more depth, and last year's team definitely could have used more depth. We'll see what a year in the basement of the Big East does for his offseason strategy.
Nolan is physically ready to move up, can score from all spots on the court, very creative in the open court, has hops, more instincts with the ball then any wing we have right now, plays D, Iowa St offered double what he is getting from St. Thomas, I do not care what level you play at and score 22 a game, your a player. Better than Owens and Phillips, not sure about Alex but third year in college, I would take him in a heartbeat, he starts.
Quote from: tower912 on January 31, 2026, 11:05:27 AMI cannot imagine a scenario where Shaka brings in a wing forward.
Owens Junior
Miletic Freshman
Phillips Sophomore
Johnston Freshman
Egbuono Freshman
Walker Freshman
All roughly the same height.
Give me a PG with size who can also play off the ball. Guard depth is crucial.
I think he'd be foolish to not add an experienced wing scorer given that we have one returning player with any meaningful experience.
Starting caliber center, starting caliber scoring wing, rotation guard should be the priorities, IMO.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 02, 2026, 02:54:21 PMI do not understand the Minessale love on this board. MUBB already is stacked with wings and Minessale is a 29.4% 3 point shooter. I guess if we want a local kid who shoots sub 30% from 3, he is the guy.
"Stacked" is very different than having lots of guys playing similar positions.
Quote from: brewcity77 on February 02, 2026, 05:19:16 PMI think he'd be foolish to not add an experienced wing scorer given that we have one returning player with any meaningful experience.
Starting caliber center, starting caliber scoring wing, rotation guard should be the priorities, IMO.
Do you think we do it? I think we all align on needs for the most part.
I think we all have differing opinions on whether or not they will actually do something about those needs.
Quote from: brewcity77 on February 02, 2026, 05:19:16 PMI think he'd be foolish to not add an experienced wing scorer given that we have one returning player with any meaningful experience.
Starting caliber center, starting caliber scoring wing, rotation guard should be the priorities, IMO.
Yes. Echoing my last post/thoughts exactly.
Why wasn't a big the #1 focus this past offseason?
Gold
Hamilton
Clark
Parham
That is criminal.
Sheek and Clark are two years away from meaningful production.
We need a big next year, even more than this past year.
Quote from: We R Final Four on February 02, 2026, 05:51:24 PMWhy wasn't a big the #1 focus this past offseason?
Gold
Hamilton
Clark
Parham
That is criminal.
Sheek and Clark are two years away from meaningful production.
We need a big next year, even more than this past year.
Or last year.....
Quote from: JTJ3 on February 02, 2026, 03:25:41 PMHe's a legit 6'5 with a 6'10+ wingspan.
We sure about that wingspan?
He said he spent the offseason working on the triple. No word if he made 10k shots or not.
The kid does get to the line a TON. I'd take him (pawz).
Quote from: We R Final Four on February 02, 2026, 05:51:24 PMWhy wasn't a big the #1 focus this past offseason?
Gold
Hamilton
Clark
Parham
That is criminal.
Sheek and Clark are two years away from meaningful production.
We need a big next year, even more than this past year.
There wasn't a scholarship available.
It is rare that I disagree with Brew, but if nobody else leaves the priority has to be a combo guard with size. Because as the 26-27 roster is currently situated guards are NJ, AS, Tre, and Sean. Injuries always happen. You can win playing small ball, but you cannot win with poor guard play. 2003-4, Buzz's final season.
Shaka's the coach. He needs to have the hard conversations with Hamilton, Norman and Jones. They're just not cutting it.
Quote from: tower912 on February 02, 2026, 06:15:41 PMThere wasn't a scholarship available.
It is rare that I disagree with Brew, but if nobody else leaves the priority has to be a combo guard with size. Because as the 26-27 roster is currently situated guards are NJ, AS, Tre, and Sean. Injuries always happen. You can win playing small ball, but you cannot win with poor guard play. 2003-4, Buzz's final season.
I do remember Crean game years ago when we had no point guard to bring the ball up due to injuries.I agree with importance of guard play, but personally I am over getting demolished at the 5 by other teams. We need a legit big man.
Quote from: 79Warrior on February 02, 2026, 06:27:06 PMI do remember Crean game years ago when we had no point guard to bring the ball up due to injuries.I agree with importance of guard play, but personally I am over getting demolished at the 5 by other teams. We need a legit big man.
that was 'Action' Jackson playing point center!!! I do agree, Shaka needs a legit big...rim run, boards. (I thought Clark would be that guy) Back-up pg too.
Quote from: Viper on February 02, 2026, 06:37:08 PMthat was 'Action' Jackson playing point center!!! I do agree, Shaka needs a legit big...rim run, boards. (I thought Clark would be that guy) Back-up pg too.
Walk-on Rob Hanley got some run even.
Have we "moved on" from Clark? At one point there was some sentiment that his length could be useful. It seems that he is getting very few minutes now.
Personally, I like his upside and am hopeful he can contribute next year.
Quote from: romey on February 02, 2026, 06:56:54 PMWalk-on Rob Hanley got some run even.
Have we "moved on" from Clark? At one point there was some sentiment that his length could be useful. It seems that he is getting very few minutes now.
Personally, I like his upside and am hopeful he can contribute next year.
The only thing Clark has going for him is people compare him to Hamilton.
Quote from: We R Final Four on February 02, 2026, 05:51:24 PMWhy wasn't a big the #1 focus this past offseason?
Gold
Hamilton
Clark
Parham
That is criminal.
Sheek and Clark are two years away from meaningful production.
We need a big next year, even more than this past year.
I suspect it's twofold.
First, I think the staff believed Ben was at his best as a stretch 4. They've long talked about how they want him to play and how they believe there's more there than what he showed. That meant moving someone else to the 5.
Which led to the second problem, the staff misevaluated Caedin Hamilton. Maybe it's the whole "better in practice" thing but I think Caedin was better in practice because he was going against Josh and Parham in the post. One wasn't ready and one isn't physically built to defend 250-lb post players. They mistakenly thought Caedin's practice dominance against guys who weren't Big East level interior defenders was real when it clearly wasn't.
I do think Big East starting big is the top need, and hopefully Sheek can be the rotation piece. But that does require counting on a redshirt freshman and we've been down that road before. You can tell me until you're blue in the face that Pearson is different but I'll believe it when I see it consistently against high majors.
Then we need a scorer on the wing to replace 2023-24 Kam Jones (something we've failed to do for two years). Someone who can also help with ball handling would be ideal, but a 23-26% usage capable scorer is necessary.
Anything else is a luxury.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 02, 2026, 11:30:06 AMI just looked at his recruiting page and it actually looks like we were one of his first offers!
For most that would probably be a good thing but Shaka seems like a grudge guy. Choosing Providence over Marquette probably eliminates him as a target rather than enhance his ability to be a target of Shaka lol. You would think if he was good enough for the culture then, why wouldn't he be now? But who knows.
A "grudge guy".
There is nothing whatsoever to indicate Shaka is a "grudge guy". In fact, he seems to be the very opposite.
Where do you come up with some of this nonsense?
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 02, 2026, 12:26:03 PMIt seems to me they are one in the same with Shaka. He holds having an agent against a kid like one would hold a grudge.
It's baffling that he would close the door on so many athletes who have these advisors. Especially when the best of the best will obviously have agents. So we won't take transfers but we also eliminate ourselves from the best high school talent. This is where we end up.
It's too bad we lost Egbuonu because he has an agent.
Quote from: brewcity77 on February 02, 2026, 07:01:03 PMWhich led to the second problem, the staff misevaluated Caedin Hamilton. Maybe it's the whole "better in practice" thing but I think Caedin was better in practice because he was going against Royce and Parham in the post. One wasn't ready and one isn't physically built to defend 250-lb post players. They mistakenly thought Caedin's practice dominance against guys who weren't Big East level interior defenders was real when it clearly wasn't.
The issue, to me, is that this is the second year they've evaluated Caedin that way. I'm not a Fire Shaka guy, but this is the most damning critique of his entire tenure.
Quote from: Jay Bee on February 02, 2026, 05:56:48 PMWe sure about that wingspan?
He said he spent the offseason working on the triple. No word if he made 10k shots or not.
The kid does get to the line a TON. I'd take him (pawz).
But does he have that look?
I had St Thomas on the side tv on Sunday while watching a soccer game.
I must've caught one of Minessales worst stretches of the season but it was really really bad...
I get that everyone has a bad game but usually studs seems to jump off the screen at lower levels and his athleticism didn't seem to fit the bill.
They were playing a 4-16 team.
On one possession he did this quadruple fake thing in the post to trick the defender that almost made me fall off the couch in laughter, and then he got swatted.
Not trying to disparage the kid but in the 15-20 mins of real time that I watch it was not good.
On the other hand, he's got a teammate named Bjerke that went 10-12 from 3.
He's 6-9, pretty unathletic, but is shooting 47% from 3 and shot 42% last year and 47% in year 1. A guy like that would be a decent one year Caedin replacement imo.
Probably only gives you 10-12 mpg but can light it up with guys getting him the ball for some open looks
Quote from: DoctorV on February 02, 2026, 11:01:49 PMI had St Thomas on the side tv on Sunday while watching a soccer game.
I must've caught one of Minessales worst stretches of the season but it was really really bad...
I get that everyone has a bad game but usually studs seems to jump off the screen at lower levels and his athleticism didn't seem to fit the bill.
They were playing a 4-16 team.
On one possession he did this quadruple fake thing in the post to trick the defender that almost made me fall off the couch in laughter, and then he got swatted.
Not trying to disparage the kid but in the 15-20 mins of real time that I watch it was not good.
On the other hand, he's got a teammate named Bjerke that went 10-12 from 3.
He's 6-9, pretty unathletic, but is shooting 47% from 3 and shot 42% last year and 47% in year 1. A guy like that would be a decent one year Caedin replacement imo.
Probably only gives you 10-12 mpg but can light it up with guys getting him the ball for some open looks
Bjerke's #'s are what Shaka needed from Gold. Definitely need a big w/Lowrey's scholly, imo...they are out there. Watch any random game and teams have 'bigs' better than MU.
Quote from: BM1090 on February 02, 2026, 03:02:40 PMYeah I agree. Give me a starting center and a backup point guard. And then a wing or a shooter depth piece if we need a third scholarship filled.
This isn't enough quality. Two starter-level players (doesn't mean they need to actually start) should be the goal.
We have plenty of promising young depth coming through the ranks. We need proven talent from the portal to allow the young guys to grow.
Last year 2100 kids or more went into the portal, he can find a big, a guard will be no problem
Quote from: DoctorV on February 02, 2026, 11:01:49 PMI had St Thomas on the side tv on Sunday while watching a soccer game.
I must've caught one of Minessales worst stretches of the season but it was really really bad...
I get that everyone has a bad game but usually studs seems to jump off the screen at lower levels and his athleticism didn't seem to fit the bill.
They were playing a 4-16 team.
On one possession he did this quadruple fake thing in the post to trick the defender that almost made me fall off the couch in laughter, and then he got swatted.
Not trying to disparage the kid but in the 15-20 mins of real time that I watch it was not good.
On the other hand, he's got a teammate named Bjerke that went 10-12 from 3.
He's 6-9, pretty unathletic, but is shooting 47% from 3 and shot 42% last year and 47% in year 1. A guy like that would be a decent one year Caedin replacement imo.
Probably only gives you 10-12 mpg but can light it up with guys getting him the ball for some open looks
At least his shooting isn't regressing.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on February 03, 2026, 01:37:20 PMAt least his shooting isn't regressing.
Looking at videos of Byerke, he would not be suitable for the 5. Basically a career 3 point shooter on the wing. Has taken 3 times more 3s than 2s in his career. But, he sure can shoot if open.
Quote from: tower912 on February 02, 2026, 06:15:41 PMThere wasn't a scholarship available.
It is rare that I disagree with Brew, but if nobody else leaves the priority has to be a combo guard with size. Because as the 26-27 roster is currently situated guards are NJ, AS, Tre, and Sean. Injuries always happen. You can win playing small ball, but you cannot win with poor guard play. 2003-4, Buzz's final season.
I'm not sure we're that far apart. I think our primary starting need is a wing scorer. We still haven't replaced our scoring wing from 2024, Kam Jones. Last year we moved him to PG but never replaced that inside out scoring which overloaded him. This year we don't have any reliable wing scoring. Chase can do it against inferior opposition but was never a leading man.
The ideal is someone with Kam's skillset, the inside out scoring along with secondary ball handler would be perfect. Nolan Minnessale has done that for St Thomas, though his efficiency has tailed off after a strong start.
I would also like to add a bench combo guard, but getting the starters sorted is more important than the bench, IMO.
A wing, scoring guard are important for sure, but a big in the middle who can guard and maybe shoot the 3 is my first pick, get 8 to 10 rebounds a game would help!
One more consideration, you can't get caught up on height. Having the occasional NJ is fine, but positional size is key in this era. I want to see our point guards look like 6'3" Tyler Kolek or 6'5" Kam Jones. Our wings should be 6'7" to 6'10". Bigs should be 6'11" at the minimum.
Quote from: tower912 on January 31, 2026, 11:05:27 AMI cannot imagine a scenario where Shaka brings in a wing forward.
Owens
Miletic
Phillips
Johnston
Egbuono
Walker.
All roughly the same height.
Give me a PG with size who can also play off the ball. Guard depth is crucial.
All the same height and in this era, it's guard height. CJ Moore just wrote on this. You can maybe have one guy 6'4" or smaller but the rest should be long and athletic, and even those shorter (6'7" & under) players should have longer wingspans than they are tall.
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7019565/2026/02/04/college-basketball-teams-height-michigan-duke/?source=user_shared_article
Quote from: BCHoopster on February 03, 2026, 07:33:42 PMA wing, scoring guard are important for sure, but a big in the middle who can guard and maybe shoot the 3 is my first pick, get 8 to 10 rebounds a game would help!
I would settle for a slightly upgraded Kur Kuath.
This Minnesale kid looks great on paper, but I would hate to pass up on proven high-major talent or even an A10 or Mountain West scorer to sign him.
We definitely need a playmaker who can create their own shot, but the priority has to be an athletic big who can score and rebound. Our ceiling is much higher with a legit #5 and the roster we expect to bring back than someone like Minnesale and running back Caedin Hamilton.
Maybe it's because I'm not from Wisconsin, but him being local and his family liking Marquette isn't that important to me.
Now, if he's relatively affordable and we're able to throw money/resources behind a big, than I think he's worth a shot. I just feel like he's going to get to Big East play and our better athletes (like Alex, who looks awesome) might end up higher on the depth chart.
1. A dependable big who can rebound and guard the rim. Some scoring would be nice, but D and rebounding are the key traits.
2. A 6'3"+ guard who can play point when NJ rests.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 04, 2026, 10:16:28 AM1. A dependable big who can rebound and guard the rim. Some scoring would be nice, but D and rebounding are the key traits.
2. A 6'3"+ guard who can play point when NJ rests.
And the guard needs to be a better perimeter defender than anyone on the roster.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 04, 2026, 10:16:28 AM1. A dependable big who can rebound and guard the rim. Some scoring would be nice, but D and rebounding are the key traits.
2. A 6'3"+ guard who can play point when NJ rests.
Or is out for a while due to an injury. Yeah,
I know....I'm being a wet blanket. Just sayin' it could happen.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 04, 2026, 10:16:28 AM1. A dependable big who can rebound and guard the rim. Some scoring would be nice, but D and rebounding are the key traits.
2. A 6'3"+ guard who can play point when NJ rests.
Same. And I want the guard to be able to score at a high level.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 04, 2026, 10:16:28 AM1. A dependable big who can rebound and guard the rim. Some scoring would be nice, but D and rebounding are the key traits.
2. A 6'3"+ guard who can play point when NJ rests.
Sounds like Pearson, Egbuonu, and Johnston to me.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 04, 2026, 11:47:10 AMSounds like Pearson, Egbuonu, and Johnston to me.
Three freshmen. 🙄
Quote from: The Sultan on February 04, 2026, 11:56:36 AMThree freshmen. 🙄
Haha I'm mostly just poking fun. But the reality is that that is a very realistic outcome given how the program operates.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 04, 2026, 11:47:10 AMSounds like Pearson, Egbuonu, and Johnston to me.
If there's one thing we know about freshman bigs, it's that they're dependable, especially on the defensive end.
Egbuonu and Johnston are wings.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 04, 2026, 12:05:51 PMHaha I'm mostly just poking fun. But the reality is that that is a very realistic outcome given how the program operates.
Yeah. Our coach is a grudge guy, so anyone that didn't come to MU out of high school he will not be interested in.
I'm fully ready for scoop to ping pong back and admonish any of our 'shooters' that we have or acquire in the off-season for being too nonathletic to guard in the BEAST.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on February 05, 2026, 07:47:50 AMI'm fully ready for scoop to ping pong....
Could have stopped here. And substituted pickleball.
I literally dozed off watching St. Thomas vs S. Dakota St. last night. I wasn't particularly impressed by any of the Tommies, though I did just look at the box score to see that Minessale and Janowski had good stats.
The level of play was so bad - I've seen high school games recently with lots more pace and shotmaking - that it's hard to get a fix on these guys. I guess if Shaka brings one of them in, I'd assume he knows what he's doing.
Quote from: MU82 on February 05, 2026, 08:33:00 AMI literally dozed off watching St. Thomas vs S. Dakota St. last night. I wasn't particularly impressed by any of the Tommies, though I did just look at the box score to see that Minessale and Janowski had good stats.
The level of play was so bad - I've seen high school games recently with lots more pace and shotmaking - that it's hard to get a fix on these guys. I guess if Shaka brings one of them in, I'd assume he knows what he's doing.
First bolded-good point! There are transfers who came from low level conferences and are now in major conferences doing well. I have often wondered how they can be evaluated.
Second bolded- Sorry, but my trust in Shaka's "knows what he is doing" is on hold. I once blindly had faith in his ability.
Quote from: MU82 on February 05, 2026, 08:33:00 AMI literally dozed off watching St. Thomas vs S. Dakota St. last night. I wasn't particularly impressed by any of the Tommies, though I did just look at the box score to see that Minessale and Janowski had good stats.
The level of play was so bad - I've seen high school games recently with lots more pace and shotmaking - that it's hard to get a fix on these guys. I guess if Shaka brings one of them in, I'd assume he knows what he's doing.
Minnesale had a good second half after they moved him off the ball, allowed him to receive the pass, and then create off of isolation.
Quote from: tower912 on February 05, 2026, 08:51:15 AMMinnesale had a good second half after they moved him off the ball, allowed him to receive the pass, and then create off of isolation.
Thanks for the info, as I did not see the game. Unlike MU82 though, I stay awake while watching games and I have quite a few more years chalked up than he does. What a whoose!
If the Gladiator asked, "Are you not entertained," I would have said, "Nope." And also, "zzzzz."
Quote from: tower912 on February 05, 2026, 08:51:15 AMMinnesale had a good second half after they moved him off the ball, allowed him to receive the pass, and then create off of isolation.
I mean...that kinda feels like what we could use if he could also do some spot pg work so Nigel can breathe.
The more that can create off their own dribble/iso is good for opening the team up a bit. Parham starting to get there. Owens...a bit. But someone who can do that (and has vision) could make a Nash Walker/MP2 look amazing if they can get the ball out if teams start collapsing on the iso
Quote from: JakeBarnes on February 05, 2026, 09:21:20 AMI mean...that kinda feels like what we could use if he could also do some spot pg work so Nigel can breathe.
The more that can create off their own dribble/iso is good for opening the team up a bit. Parham starting to get there. Owens...a bit. But someone who can do that (and has vision) could make a Nash Walker/MP2 look amazing if they can get the ball out if teams start collapsing on the iso
I would certainly take him on our roster, just not sold that he is the answer to our specific problems. We don't want to trust Freshman but we are ok with trusting a mid-major crossover? Minessale would be good for us I just think our problems are much bigger. We need a center that is capable of dominating a game at times. If the plan is
Unit 1:
James Jr.
Stevens
Minessale
Parham
Transfer Center
Unit 2:
Transfer Guard
Phillips
Owens
Egbuonu
Pearson
The others
Nash
Miletic
Johnston
Clark
Hamilton
Is that good enough to make noise in the Big East? To me, with how good Nigel has been, we should be shooting for the stars in the portal. Plenty will say no, maybe all would say no, but to me you have to at least try. Nigel is on the edge of stardom. This is our chance to capitalize.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 05, 2026, 09:54:10 AMwith how good Nigel has been, we should be shooting for the stars in the portal. Nigel is on the edge of stardom. This is our chance to capitalize.
Agree completely. With this season as a
very low bar, we will almost certainly be better next season. But a mediocre season and Nigel may decide he wants to move on and play on a team that can make a nice run in the tourney.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on February 05, 2026, 10:02:28 AMAgree completely. With this season as a very low bar, we will almost certainly be better next season. But a mediocre season and Nigel may decide he wants to move on and play on a team that can make a nice run in the tourney.
I don't think we need to do this every year by any means. Maybe every couple years.
But with a lot of uncertainty on the roster, a spot open with a few more easy to make open...this is our chance to strike. There has to be someone or multiple guys out there that want to play at a school like Marquette with a PG like Nigel.
If Xavier can get a Ryan Conwell and Creighton can get a Baylor Scheierman, and Marquette can get an OMax/Kolek or even Morsell for that matter...then there is no reason we shouldn't be able to do it again.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 05, 2026, 10:27:24 AMI don't think we need to do this every year by any means. Maybe every couple years.
But with a lot of uncertainty on the roster, a spot open with a few more easy to make open...this is our chance to strike. There has to be someone or multiple guys out there that want to play at a school like Marquette with a PG like Nigel.
If Xavier can get a Ryan Conwell and Creighton can get a Baylor Scheierman, and Marquette can get an OMax/Kolek or even Morsell for that matter...then there is no reason we shouldn't be able to do it again.
but that was before we became the little sisters of the poor
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on February 05, 2026, 10:02:28 AMAgree completely. With this season as a very low bar, we will almost certainly be better next season. But a mediocre season and Nigel may decide he wants to move on and play on a team that can make a nice run in the tourney.
Agree with GE and you. Replace that junior class with high level players and pretend you developed them if you need to. There is talent on this team now and adding experience will help immensely. Add a junior going into senior year class and it's a tournament team. Strike now (in a couple months) and this will all be a distant memory.
I'm surprised to see some clamoring for what seems like fringe players (e.g. a d-first big man and someone to spell NJ). In my opinion, we need way more than that.
We really have something with NJ, Stevens and Parham. But that group of young guys are probably not ready to have us competing for the Big East next year.
Do I think we'll be in for multiple top 10 transfers available? Of course not. But we can and should be in the market for at least two big east starter level players that can do more than just grab boards or backup our PG. I wish that weren't the case but that's where whiffing on the junior class has left us.
We've keyed in on Minessale as a transfer guard candidate, but does anyone know which bigs we may be linked to? I would love Oswin Erhunmwunse from Providence as a stopgap between what we have now (or don't) and Sheek getting up to speed. Kim English is a dead man walking. If Shaka is willing to pay for a big, I'd love adding Oswin as a starting center.
Oswin is the obvious name right now. No reason to think we'll go after him other than the fact we recruited him as a prep, but he's definitely going to be in the portal.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 05, 2026, 09:54:10 AMTo me, with how good Nigel has been, we should be shooting for the stars in the portal. Plenty will say no, maybe all would say no, but to me you have to at least try. Nigel is on the edge of stardom. This is our chance to capitalize.
Few if any Scoopers are saying "no." Most are pushing for something just like this. Sorry, but you're not unique in this realm.
Quote from: JTJ3 on February 05, 2026, 04:19:15 PMOswin is the obvious name right now. No reason to think we'll go after him other than the fact we recruited him as a prep, but he's definitely going to be in the portal.
Unfortunately not an option because our coach is a grudge guy, so anyone who didn't accept his original scholarship offer is out.
Or so one Scooper says.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 05, 2026, 07:22:38 PMUnfortunately not an option because our coach is a grudge guy, so anyone who didn't accept his original scholarship offer is out.
Or so one Scooper says.
This exact scenario has happened to a degree already and Shaka has acknowledged it. He will commit to guys who are here over guys who had the chance to be.
Quote from: MuMark on February 18, 2025, 02:10:35 PMWe have an open spot now and Shaka said in an article about his philosophy earlier this season that a guy was in the portal last spring who was " one of the favorite guys he ever recruited " ........he said he decided not to go after him because of his commitment to the current players and the guys they had coming in.
I'm not saying it will never happen but I'm not sure what you wrote is accurate either.
I can't remember where I read it but I know there was discussion here about who it might have been.......possibly Leon Bond or maybe Seth Trimble.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 05, 2026, 07:22:38 PMUnfortunately not an option because our coach is a grudge guy, so anyone who didn't accept his original scholarship offer is out.
Or so one Scooper says.
Dammit youre right. Forgot about that. Scratch him off the list.
I don't know how to pronounce some of these names. We have a lot of basic a$$names
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 05, 2026, 07:50:39 PMThis exact scenario has happened to a degree already and Shaka has acknowledged it. He will commit to guys who are here over guys who had the chance to be.
So it had nothing to do with holding a grudge and everything to do with being committed to the players in the program. Huh.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 05, 2026, 08:16:06 PMSo it had nothing to do with holding a grudge and everything to do with being committed to the players in the program. Huh.
Shaka committing to bad players is what has him in this situation. To continue to commit to those bad players when your former targets (some of which are actually good) become available a second time, is just stupid.
If you think he will re-recruit a guy like Oswin that has turned him down once before, then I don't think we are watching and listening to the same coach.
If Shaka goes portaling, more likely he'll grab someone he already has formed a relationship with.
Quote from: bananahammock on February 05, 2026, 08:35:59 PMIf Shaka goes portaling, more likely he'll grab someone he already has formed a relationship with.
Exactly. GE makes up wild things in his head like Shaka is a "grudge guy." Weird stuff.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 05, 2026, 08:29:10 PMShaka committing to bad players is what has him in this situation. To continue to commit to those bad players when your former targets (some of which are actually good) become available a second time, is just stupid.
If you think he will re-recruit a guy like Oswin that has turned him down once before, then I don't think we are watching and listening to the same coach.
Well in the case you keep referencing we'd be even worse right now if he had brought the transfer in. Nigel never wouldve gotten the opportunity he's had this year.
If someone like Oswin wanted to come here, Shaka would certainly look into it.
Quote from: JTJ3 on February 05, 2026, 08:47:48 PMWell in the case you keep referencing we'd be even worse right now if he had brought the transfer in. Nigel never wouldve gotten the opportunity he's had this year.
If someone like Oswin wanted to come here, Shaka would certainly look into it.
You think we would be worse if we had another guard in the mix with Nigel and Adrien in the backcourt?
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 05, 2026, 07:50:39 PMThis exact scenario has happened to a degree already and Shaka has acknowledged it. He will commit to guys who are here over guys who had the chance to be.
I'm not sure you understand what "grudge" means.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 05, 2026, 10:33:38 PMI'm not sure you understand what "grudge" means.
To me, his stubborn and competitive personality seems likes it's one that would hold a grudge towards guys he previously recruited that chose to go elsewhere.
Whether you see it that way or not is up to you, but the end result remains the same. Good players that are available in the portal are glossed over by Marquette in the end.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 05, 2026, 11:26:01 PMTo me, his stubborn and competitive personality seems likes it's one that would hold a grudge towards guys he previously recruited that chose to go elsewhere.
Whether you see it that way or not is up to you, but the end result remains the same. Good players that are available in the portal are glossed over by Marquette in the end.
Wish Shaka hadn't told Oso to move on from Marquette when he took over. Had his chance to play for Shaka out of high school but chose not to. No wonder he always trashes Oso when he speaks about him.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 05, 2026, 11:26:01 PMTo me, his stubborn and competitive personality seems likes it's one that would hold a grudge towards guys he previously recruited that chose to go elsewhere.
Whether you see it that way or not is up to you, but the end result remains the same. Good players that are available in the portal are glossed over by Marquette in the end.
Yes your second paragraph is correct. However it seems incredibly doubtful that he holds grudges against players. This sounds like something you just made up.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 05, 2026, 11:26:01 PMTo me, his stubborn and competitive personality seems likes it's one that would hold a grudge towards guys he previously recruited that chose to go elsewhere.
Whether you see it that way or not is up to you, but the end result remains the same. Good players that are available in the portal are glossed over by Marquette in the end.
The Oso example Wades shared is a good one.
Being dedicated to and/or stubborn about his RGV team-building philosophy and prioritizing your own player(s) over someone that initially chose another school does not remotely indicate or infer a grudge. Grudges are personal.
Prioritizing a Marquette player does not indicate personal animosity to the other guy.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 06, 2026, 07:21:39 AMWish Shaka hadn't told Oso to move on from Marquette when he took over. Had his chance to play for Shaka out of high school but chose not to. No wonder he always trashes Oso when he speaks about him.
That's not what happened. Oso's high-powered agent demanded insane boatloads of cash as well as designer watches to get the deal done. Shaka balked at first, but after some tough negotiations he agreed to pay up to get Oso to stay.
Quote from: The Sultan on February 06, 2026, 08:07:37 AMYes your second paragraph is correct. However it seems incredibly doubtful that he holds grudges against players. This sounds like something you just made up.
That just seems like his personality in my opinion is all.
What are our thoughts on Finely Bizjack?
If we are to get unrealistic with our portal wishlist, now that's a guy I would love to add. He flirted with the portal twice already. He will be a Senior and almost certainly gone from Butler after Thad parts ways like most assume he will, so we wouldn't have to commit to him long-term to block anyone. Has some size at 6 foot 4, and is a guy that has the ability to really light it up from deep.
Is that too unrealistic? Nigel, Bizjack, Stevens backcourt?
If Shaka does use the portal, I do not see Shaka taking any portal guys from other Big East programs - just my opinion. Although, I would love Oswin on MUBB.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 06, 2026, 09:37:21 AMIf Shaka does use the portal, I do not see Shaka taking any portal guys from other Big East programs - just my opinion. Although, I would love Oswin on MUBB.
Just because you don't think he'd want to ruffle any feathers within the league or something else?
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 06, 2026, 09:39:11 AMJust because you don't think he'd want to ruffle any feathers within the league or something else?
Grudge against guys he coaches against regularly would be my guess.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 06, 2026, 09:39:11 AMJust because you don't think he'd want to ruffle any feathers within the league or something else?
Correct. Shaka has a reputation to uphold. He is looked at as the coach who does things the right way. And getting other xfers from BE programs can be construed as slimy.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 06, 2026, 09:40:00 AMGrudge against guys he coaches against regularly would be my guess.
I really like all this grudge talk, because I have grudges against a LOT of scoopers.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 06, 2026, 09:40:38 AMCorrect. Shaka has a reputation to uphold. He is looked at as the coach who does things the right way. And getting other xfers from BE programs can be construed as slimy.
If so, this is just one more way that Shaka is limiting the talent pool accessible to coaches. If I get it right, he rejects:
--the transfer portal overall
--guys he has grudges against, especially who he has recruited in the past
--players on other BEast teams
--players who have agents
--guys who ask for or expect more NIL money than current MU players
--anyone who might be perceived as contributing to "recruiting over" players already in the program
--(just speculating here, but) players who play for coaches he likes?
What have I missed?
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on February 06, 2026, 09:52:47 AMI really like all this grudge talk, because I have grudges against a LOT of scoopers.
Isn't easier to list scoopers you don't have a grudge against?
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2026, 10:26:53 AMIsn't easier to list scoopers you don't have a grudge against?
This is true. I can count them on one hand. And those are scoopers who haven't posted in a couple of years, so they're either inactive or
really inactive, as in dead.
I have a grudge against you, but I cannot remember what it is. I could have sworn I wrote it down somewhere. If I find it, I'll DM you so you know.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 06, 2026, 09:40:38 AMCorrect. Shaka has a reputation to uphold. He is looked at as the coach who does things the right way. And getting other xfers from BE programs can be construed as slimy.
While I agree, don't you think a player leaving after a coaching change would warrant a different approach than poaching of someone's team?
It's pretty widely expected that Matta will be gone from Butler after the season.
Quote from: mug644 on February 06, 2026, 10:18:17 AMIf so, this is just one more way that Shaka is limiting the talent pool accessible to coaches. If I get it right, he rejects:
--the transfer portal overall
--guys he has grudges against, especially who he has recruited in the past
--players on other BEast teams
--players who have agents
--guys who ask for or expect more NIL money than current MU players
--anyone who might be perceived as contributing to "recruiting over" players already in the program
--(just speculating here, but) players who play for coaches he likes?
What have I missed?
We really have built quite the narrative haven't we?
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 05, 2026, 11:26:01 PMWhether you see it that way or not is up to you, but the end result remains the same. Good players that are available in the portal are glossed over by Marquette in the end.
To date, we haven't pursued a transfer since Wrightsil, so this isn't really a fair statement as we have glossed over ALL good players in the portal.
I know of at least one player we recruited that entered the portal planning to come here but was told we didn't have a scholarship for him, but that was years ago. We'll see if they go to the portal this year, but I wouldn't rule out an Oswin/Leon Bond type just because they had the chance to come here before and elected to go elsewhere.
Quote from: brewcity77 on February 06, 2026, 12:08:22 PMTo date, we haven't pursued a transfer since Wrightsil, so this isn't really a fair statement as we have glossed over ALL good players in the portal.
I know of at least one player we recruited that entered the portal planning to come here but was told we didn't have a scholarship for him, but that was years ago. We'll see if they go to the portal this year, but I wouldn't rule out an Oswin/Leon Bond type just because they had the chance to come here before and elected to go elsewhere.
Didn't Shaka say he cried after talking to a player in the portal because he had recruited him but didn't see a good fit for MU at the moment? And didn't Scoop think it was Bond?
Quote from: MUDPT on February 06, 2026, 12:24:50 PMDidn't Shaka say he cried after talking to a player in the portal because he had recruited him but didn't see a good fit for MU at the moment? And didn't Scoop think it was Bond?
I believe that was the same case I referenced above. Some thought maybe Bond, some thought maybe Trimble.
It just makes no sense to me. We haven't been stuffed with talent 1-13 or now 1-15. There's always been room.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 05, 2026, 10:01:04 PMYou think we would be worse if we had another guard in the mix with Nigel and Adrien in the backcourt?
Nigel would be playing like 15-20 minutes as the backup PG instead of the role he has now, and behind a transfer PG that isnt better than Nigel. I dont think that would make us better.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 06, 2026, 08:44:02 AMWhat are our thoughts on Finely Bizjack?
If we are to get unrealistic with our portal wishlist, now that's a guy I would love to add. He flirted with the portal twice already. He will be a Senior and almost certainly gone from Butler after Thad parts ways like most assume he will, so we wouldn't have to commit to him long-term to block anyone. Has some size at 6 foot 4, and is a guy that has the ability to really light it up from deep.
Is that too unrealistic? Nigel, Bizjack, Stevens backcourt?
I don't like his hair or face.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 06, 2026, 01:45:51 PMI don't like his hair or face.
(https://c.tenor.com/QVDxqANjHjcAAAAd/tenor.gif)
Quote from: JTJ3 on February 06, 2026, 01:15:12 PMNigel would be playing like 15-20 minutes as the backup PG instead of the role he has now, and behind a transfer PG that isnt better than Nigel. I dont think that would make us better.
They already had 2 PGs on the roster. Nigel was already slotted as the backup to start the year.
If there was another guard to recruit it would have been a combo guard.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 06, 2026, 08:44:02 AMWhat are our thoughts on Finely Bizjack?
If we are to get unrealistic with our portal wishlist, now that's a guy I would love to add. He flirted with the portal twice already. He will be a Senior and almost certainly gone from Butler after Thad parts ways like most assume he will, so we wouldn't have to commit to him long-term to block anyone. Has some size at 6 foot 4, and is a guy that has the ability to really light it up from deep.
Is that too unrealistic? Nigel, Bizjack, Stevens backcourt?
He's a good player and we desperately need good players so I'm in favor. Don't see it happening, though.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 06, 2026, 08:44:02 AMWhat are our thoughts on Finely Bizjack?
If we are to get unrealistic with our portal wishlist, now that's a guy I would love to add. He flirted with the portal twice already. He will be a Senior and almost certainly gone from Butler after Thad parts ways like most assume he will, so we wouldn't have to commit to him long-term to block anyone. Has some size at 6 foot 4, and is a guy that has the ability to really light it up from deep.
Is that too unrealistic? Nigel, Bizjack, Stevens backcourt?
Thoughts are if my understanding is correct This is Finley Bizjack's 3rd Year with Butler correct. Heard Bizjack had offers to leave Butler last year but chose to stay at Butler for another year. That said am Not Sure how realistic that is but maybe.
I think Bizjack finishes his career at Butler. If not, he returns home to a Texas school.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 06, 2026, 08:44:02 AMWhat are our thoughts on Finely Bizjack?
If we are to get unrealistic with our portal wishlist, now that's a guy I would love to add. He flirted with the portal twice already. He will be a Senior and almost certainly gone from Butler after Thad parts ways like most assume he will, so we wouldn't have to commit to him long-term to block anyone. Has some size at 6 foot 4, and is a guy that has the ability to really light it up from deep.
Is that too unrealistic? Nigel, Bizjack, Stevens backcourt?
He is close with Matta. If Matta gets launched, I wouldn't be at all surprised if Bizjack looks around. He had a great start to the year. Having to handle the ball a lot after their other guard got hurt seemed to impact Bizjack's shooting. Still a threat and pretty athletic.
Quote from: JTJ3 on February 06, 2026, 01:15:12 PMNigel would be playing like 15-20 minutes as the backup PG instead of the role he has now, and behind a transfer PG that isnt better than Nigel. I dont think that would make us better.
Yeah, but that would have given GE03 something he really values - yet another thing to whine about.
Minessale and Janowski both played well again this weekend. Janowski's Sister committed to the in state school to the west of us for next year which gives the in state school to the west of us an advantage but Marquette is in the picture yet. Hear Minessale continues to love Marquette and if offers are close will pick Marquette.
Quote from: tower912 on February 06, 2026, 03:58:11 PMI think Bizjack finishes his career at Butler. If not, he returns home to a Texas school.
Bizjack put his name into the portal after his freshman year and didn't get the offers he thought he would so he went back to Butler. He's proven himself to be a high major player, so I could see a Big 12 team looking for some depth at the combo guard position and throwing more money at him than Butler can.
Here are a few potential center/PF transfer:
David Fuchs - San Francisco.
Averages about 12 ppg and 8rebs - big body at 6'9" and 245 lbs.
Amani Hansberry - Virginia Tech
Averages about 15 ppg and 8rebs - 6'8" and 240 lbs. + gives him size he can move
I think this is the profile of what we'd want in the middle. Averaging more than 2 blocks per game is also important, but I think we actually have the rim protection aspect covered next year should Sheek and Josh get some traction.
Armani Mighty of Mercer by way of Boston College might be worth a look. 6'10", 240-pound junior who was pretty good on the boards at BC but couldn't do anything else. Two years later, he's filled out and averaging 13.6/10.4 per game while shooting at about 68% from the floor (all at the rim, of course).
Also, the name is great.
Quote from: SchnitzelBoy on February 09, 2026, 11:50:17 AMHere are a few potential center/PF transfer:
David Fuchs - San Francisco.
Averages about 12 ppg and 8rebs - big body at 6'9" and 245 lbs.
Amani Hansberry - Virginia Tech
Averages about 15 ppg and 8rebs - 6'8" and 240 lbs. + gives him size he can move
I think this is the profile of what we'd want in the middle. Averaging more than 2 blocks per game is also important, but I think we actually have the rim protection aspect covered next year should Sheek and Josh get some traction.
Fuchs in the middle would work
Well, it is obvious after the last two games that MU needs a big man for sure.
In the last two games, MU has been clobbered on the offensive boards. Clobbered.
17-4
17-5 Parham had two and diminutive James had 2. Phillips with the last one.
That's really unacceptable and goes back to roster construction where Gold is playing out of position, Parham out of position when Gold goes out and Shaka's two projects (Hamilton and Clark) play six minutes total.
Shaka knows it(no confidence in Hamilton/Clark) and probably one of the two have to go and a big man from portal needs to arrive. A strong bigman. Pearson is a string bean, but very talented, so we will see. Maybe with another portal wing unless one of the recruits is up to it. Owens, who knows, he reeks of talent but.....
In a month it could be interesting, but Shaka and the staff need to start day one of portal.
36 minutes into this one it was like...
Maybe Shaka is onto something with this no portal business!
And then that changed.
All honesty aside, winning cures all.
Shaka has a system in place, an idea in place to get old and stay old. You can see the writing on the wall that it can work, but you are also seeing the writing on the wall that it can, and is failing.
So what do you do?
The only right answer is to trust the guy that gave you instant success in his first 3 years and just hope that he's right, or that he can tweak it into being right.
As simple as that tbh
Now, if only he could win in crunch time and in the big dance... that's the real hurdle to climb when he gets back there, which he will if we don't chase him away
Quote from: SchnitzelBoy on February 09, 2026, 11:50:17 AMHere are a few potential center/PF transfer:
David Fuchs - San Francisco.
Averages about 12 ppg and 8rebs - big body at 6'9" and 245 lbs.
.
This guy Fuchs.
Quote from: nyg on February 10, 2026, 09:18:48 PMWell, it is obvious after the last two games that MU needs a big man for sure.
In the last two games, MU has been clobbered on the offensive boards. Clobbered.
17-4
17-5 Parham had two and diminutive James had 2. Phillips with the last one.
That's really unacceptable and goes back to roster construction where Gold is playing out of position, Parham out of position when Gold goes out and Shaka's two projects (Hamilton and Clark) play six minutes total.
Shaka knows it(no confidence in Hamilton/Clark) and probably one of the two have to go and a big man from portal needs to arrive. A strong bigman. Pearson is a string bean, but very talented, so we will see. Maybe with another portal wing unless one of the recruits is up to it. Owens, who knows, he reeks of talent but.....
In a month it could be interesting, but Shaka and the staff need to start day one of portal.
I'm more pessimistic now than I was a few weeks ago about Shaka going to the portal. Maybe, maybe to use Zaide's scholly. Otherwise, and with improved play of late, he runs it back.
Quote from: Viper on February 11, 2026, 06:12:05 AMI'm more pessimistic now than I was a few weeks ago about Shaka going to the portal. Maybe, maybe to use Zaide's scholly. Otherwise, and with improved play of late, he runs it back.
I'm more optimistic than ever Shaka will use the portal.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 11, 2026, 09:19:05 AMI'm more optimistic than ever Shaka will use the portal.
Yeah me too.
I think he uses the portal. I think he does it his way. So, pay attention to recruits he came close with but didn't land. Also, as opposed to another true big, think about another stretch 4. Somewhere in the 6'9 range that can play interchangeably with Royce.
Quote from: tower912 on February 11, 2026, 10:16:28 AMI think he uses the portal. I think he does it his way. So, pay attention to recruits he came close with but didn't land. Also, as opposed to another true big, think about another stretch 4. Somewhere in the 6'9 range that can play interchangeably with Royce.
Nah, he's apparently a grudge guy so no chance he looks at guys he already has a relationship with. They spurned him, so he'll be sure to get the last laugh.
Quote from: tower912 on February 11, 2026, 10:16:28 AMI think he uses the portal. I think he does it his way. So, pay attention to recruits he came close with but didn't land. Also, as opposed to another true big, think about another stretch 4. Somewhere in the 6'9 range that can play interchangeably with Royce
Obviously very excited about Royce but I'm hoping he can find someone that can defend some of the bigger 5's and is also a rim protector.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 11, 2026, 11:33:50 AMNah, he's apparently a grudge guy so no chance he looks at guys he already has a relationship with. They spurned him, so he'll be sure to get the last laugh.
I
tried to talk GE03 into walking back his grudge/stubborn definitions, but instead he doubled down. I don't blame you one bit for riding this horse.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 11, 2026, 12:07:19 PMObviously very excited about Royce but I'm hoping he can find someone that can defend some of the bigger 5's and is also a rim protector.
they are out there. Some how f'in Gard gets em.
Quote from: Viper on February 11, 2026, 07:12:57 PMthey are out there. Some how f'in Gard gets em.
Haha....there he is!
Quote from: tower912 on February 11, 2026, 10:16:28 AMI think he uses the portal. I think he does it his way. So, pay attention to recruits he came close with but didn't land. Also, as opposed to another true big, think about another stretch 4. Somewhere in the 6'9 range that can play interchangeably with Royce.
Running back Caedin in the middle? Trusting a freshman big? Quantum leap from Josh?
Quote from: Pakuni on February 11, 2026, 07:22:16 PMRunning back Caedin in the middle? Trusting a freshman big? Quantum leap from Josh?
Jeopardy! Answer: How do you torpedo MU season and fund raising?
This season is really dragging on. Add in the fact that now we finally got some indication that we may use the portal and I'm just ready for it to be April. But who knows...maybe our next star could be gearing up to play in March for another school right now. You never know!
Quote from: Pakuni on February 11, 2026, 07:22:16 PMRunning back Caedin in the middle? Trusting a freshman big? Quantum leap from Josh?
Why not run 18 back? Shaka did say he is one of the teams best defenders in a post game presser earlier in year.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 17, 2026, 09:39:38 AMThis season is really dragging on. Add in the fact that now we finally got some indication that we may use the portal and I'm just ready for it to be April. But who knows...maybe our next star could be gearing up to play in March for another school right now. You never know!
We know. You want us to lose as quickly as we can in the Big East Tournament. Worried about a sprained ankle ruining next season.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 17, 2026, 09:49:56 AMWhy not run 18 back? Shaka did say he is one of the teams best defenders in a post game presser earlier in year.
Not sure Shaka is a reliable narrator when it comes to the tale of number 18.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 17, 2026, 10:56:24 AMNot sure Shaka is a reliable narrator when it comes to the tale of number 18.
I'm with you on that. We'll see how serious Shaka is after the season. Will he do what needs to be done and suggest to 18 that it's time to find a new school? Or will he just say, "18 wears his number because of me," and keep him around as a cheerleader? That's my barometer for how serious Shaka is. Right or wrong, that's how I'm judging how committed MUBB is to rebuilding this mess.
Being a leader means having uncomfortable conversations. If he can't do that, then the rebuild will not work imho.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 17, 2026, 11:33:43 AMI'm with you on that. We'll see how serious Shaka is after the season. Will he do what needs to be done and suggest to 18 that it's time to find a new school? Or will he just say, "18 wears his number because of me," and keep him around as a cheerleader? That's my barometer for how serious Shaka is. Right or wrong, that's how I'm judging how committed MUBB is to rebuilding this mess.
Being a leader means having uncomfortable conversations. If he can't do that, then the rebuild will not work imho.
Caedin Hamilton is 100% the canary in the coal mine for shaka's supposed new approach. Great call
Quote from: MUbiz on February 17, 2026, 11:33:43 AMI'm with you on that. We'll see how serious Shaka is after the season. Will he do what needs to be done and suggest to 18 that it's time to find a new school? Or will he just say, "18 wears his number because of me," and keep him around as a cheerleader? That's my barometer for how serious Shaka is. Right or wrong, that's how I'm judging how committed MUBB is to rebuilding this mess.
Being a leader means having uncomfortable conversations. If he can't do that, then the rebuild will not work imho.
That goes for the AD as well.
If we add 3 transfers this offseason it doesn't really matter if one of them is replacing Caedin's roster spot or not, as long as our most valuable players return.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 17, 2026, 10:47:26 AMWe know. You want us to lose as quickly as we can in the Big East Tournament. Worried about a sprained ankle ruining next season.
If winning a game at MSG makes that much of a difference for the confidence of these guys next year, fine, I'm all for it. Hopefully they do. But otherwise, sure, getting this season wrapped up ASAP is totally ok with me.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 17, 2026, 12:13:41 PMIf winning a game at MSG makes that much of a difference for the confidence of these guys next year, fine, I'm all for it. Hopefully they do. But otherwise, sure, getting this season wrapped up ASAP is totally ok with me.
Loser mentality.
Quote from: The Sultan on February 17, 2026, 12:15:50 PMLoser mentality.
Probably! If I was playing, I'm sure it would be different. But my playing days are behind me and currently I'm a fan of a 9 win team. So ya, I'm definitely looking to get to the next season so we can start fresh with 0s in both columns.
I've enjoyed watching Nigel, Stevens and Parham emerge the last month. But I also just love watching basketball. Still look forward to watching every game.
Wanting to lose immediately in the Big East Tourney and fast forward until April just doesnt make sense to me. The more basketball to watch, the better, especially now that we have reasons to be excited again.
Quote from: JTJ3 on February 17, 2026, 12:36:35 PMI've enjoyed watching Nigel, Stevens and Parham emerge the last month. But I also just love watching basketball. Still look forward to watching every game.
Wanting to lose immediately in the Big East Tourney and fast forward until April just doesnt make sense to me. The more basketball to watch, the better, especially now that we have reasons to be excited again.
Bingo.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 17, 2026, 11:52:41 AMIf we add 3 transfers this offseason it doesn't really matter if one of them is replacing Caedin's roster spot or not, as long as our most valuable players return.
We'll have to agree to disagree. We're aligned on keeping our most valuable players, but we clearly diverge when it comes to moving on from the lowest performers. I appreciate 18 for who he is as a person and for everything he's given to MUBB — but choosing not to replace him with a competent backup-level big man doesn't signal to the rest of the team that we're all‑in on winning.
We can all agree we need a starter‑caliber big. I'm just taking it a step further - we also need a capable backup big to replace 18. You said three transfers; I would like four.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on February 17, 2026, 11:45:58 AMThat goes for the AD as well.
Sure does. That also goes up to the president.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 17, 2026, 01:04:38 PMWe'll have to agree to disagree. We're aligned on keeping our most valuable players, but we clearly diverge when it comes to moving on from the lowest performers. I appreciate 18 for who he is as a person and for everything he's given to MUBB — but choosing not to replace him with a competent backup-level big man doesn't signal to the rest of the team that we're all‑in on winning.
We can all agree we need a starter‑caliber big. I'm just taking it a step further - we also need a capable backup big to replace 18. You said three transfers; I would like four.
I'm not sure the last two guys on the bench make that big of difference, but I can follow the logic of committing time and resources to only those to can, or have the potential to, contribute meaningfully.
I'm afraid Caedin has moved from a prospect with potential to a recruiting miss. JMHO, but he doesn't look comfortable in high major basketball. I can't see a path to meaningful contribution if he just works on one or two areas. I'm no expert but he looks like he doesn't even have the raw ability to refine.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 17, 2026, 01:04:38 PMWe'll have to agree to disagree. We're aligned on keeping our most valuable players, but we clearly diverge when it comes to moving on from the lowest performers. I appreciate 18 for who he is as a person and for everything he's given to MUBB — but choosing not to replace him with a competent backup-level big man doesn't signal to the rest of the team that we're all‑in on winning.
We can all agree we need a starter‑caliber big. I'm just taking it a step further - we also need a capable backup big to replace 18. You said three transfers; I would like four.
Pearson is your capable back-up big. A one-year starter at the 5 is a must but you don't also recruit over Pearson in the portal.
If Caedin leaves I have zero problem with that, obviously. You don't need a 15-man roster filled with guys that expect or need to play.
We have one spot open. It seems pretty clear that Sean will move on. One more sport will open, at least (Tre?).
The point is the needed talent can be added for this team to be good next year, even if Caedin is still on the roster.
As long as none of James, Parham, Stevens, or Sheek walk out the door we should be in solid shape.
Quote from: JTJ3 on February 17, 2026, 12:36:35 PMI've enjoyed watching Nigel, Stevens and Parham emerge the last month. But I also just love watching basketball. Still look forward to watching every game.
Wanting to lose immediately in the Big East Tourney and fast forward until April just doesnt make sense to me. The more basketball to watch, the better, especially now that we have reasons to be excited again.
Ya. I mean I'm not sitting here with bells and whistles rooting for the other team. But I'm definitely looking forward to the offseason and watching Shaka get the program back where it belongs. The first time going into MSG since early Wojo where the Big East Tournament feels next to impossible to accomplish.
Typically I'd be able to talk myself into thinking we can walk out of NY with a title. Not this team.
Do we know what the deal with Josh Clark is?
Is he not in shape? Injured? Just not good enough to play?
I thought when he's come in, he's done a decent job of disrupting the paint. Thought for sure by now he would have gotten a shot to get minutes to see what he's got.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 17, 2026, 01:04:38 PMWe'll have to agree to disagree. We're aligned on keeping our most valuable players, but we clearly diverge when it comes to moving on from the lowest performers. I appreciate 18 for who he is as a person and for everything he's given to MUBB — but choosing not to replace him with a competent backup-level big man doesn't signal to the rest of the team that we're all‑in on winning.
We can all agree we need a starter‑caliber big. I'm just taking it a step further - we also need a capable backup big to replace 18. You said three transfers; I would like four.
"I appreciate 18 for who he is as a person...but also do not respect him enough to use his name."
Quote from: wadesworld on February 17, 2026, 02:13:09 PM"I appreciate 18 for who he is as a person...but also do not respect him enough to use his name."
What's next, will we go Brazilian style and simply call him by one name?
Caeilton has a decent ring to it
Cae-DONE.
Find who Gard is looking at in the portal and overpay them.....He finds ways to win...
Quote from: burger on February 17, 2026, 05:12:30 PMFind who Gard is looking at in the portal and overpay them.....He finds ways to win...
Again, if we want to just duck out of the Tourney in the first weekend every year we can pay less than the Badgers do for their roster and less than what we do for Shaka.
The obsession with Wisconsin is so weird. Striving to be Greg Gard's Wisconsin sure is something.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 17, 2026, 02:13:09 PM"I appreciate 18 for who he is as a person...but also do not respect him enough to use his name."
It's not that deep. Relax.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 17, 2026, 07:02:04 PMSorry I don't speak projection.
You're right. It's so cool and definitely shows appreciation for him as a person.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 17, 2026, 07:05:53 PMYou're right. It's so cool and definitely shows appreciation for him as a person.
You're mad I'm using the number that's literally on his back and in every box score? Touch grass my man.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 17, 2026, 07:10:34 PMYou're mad I'm using the number that's literally on his back and in every box score? Touch grass my man.
Mad? No. You do it for one player. I'm telling you it's dumb and goes against you claiming you appreciate him as a person. The irony of these posts is rich.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 17, 2026, 08:56:52 PMMad? No. You do it for one player. I'm telling you it's dumb and goes against you claiming you appreciate him as a person. The irony of these posts is rich.
Gatekeeper much? You're policing what I can say while assuming my #18 shorthand = disrespect (it is not). Your Your mind-reading lectures deserve an award. Rich irony overload.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 17, 2026, 09:24:38 PMGatekeeper much? You're policing what I can say while assuming my #18 shorthand = disrespect (it is not). Your Your mind-reading lectures deserve an award. Rich irony overload.
You've referenced Royce, Nigel, Adrien, Markus, Caedin, Owen Freeman, Oswin Erhunmwunse, Lamar Wilkerson, Nolan Minessale, Zuby, Derrick Wilson, Chase, Gold, Sean Jones, Kolek, Sheek, Damarius, Lowery, Josh, Jop, Johnston, Egbuonu, Nash Walker, Ian, Kam, and Oso since the season started and you have used a players' number to refer to the player for just one of them, and have referred to him by his actual name twice (and not since November) and by his number a few dozen times. Everyone else you've used their initials or names, never their jersey number.
Sorry you don't like getting called out on your bullcrap.
Quote from: burger on February 17, 2026, 05:12:30 PMFind who Gard is looking at in the portal and overpay them.....He finds ways to win...
Not tonight.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 17, 2026, 09:47:25 PMYou've referenced Royce, Nigel, Adrien, Markus, Caedin, Owen Freeman, Oswin Erhunmwunse, Lamar Wilkerson, Nolan Minessale, Zuby, Derrick Wilson, Chase, Gold, Sean Jones, Kolek, Sheek, Damarius, Lowery, Josh, Jop, Johnston, Egbuonu, Nash Walker, Ian, Kam, and Oso since the season started and you have used a players' number to refer to the player for just one of them, and have referred to him by his actual name twice (and not since November) and by his number a few dozen times. Everyone else you've used their initials or names, never their jersey number.
Sorry you don't like getting called out on your bullcrap.
You make my 3-year-old look mature af. She doesn't audit strangers posts to play mind-reader and scream 'bullcrap' over using a guy's actual jersey number. #18 is branded on his back, roster and merch- no disrespect, just facts. Your pettiness is embarrassing.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 17, 2026, 10:04:55 PMYou make my 3-year-old look mature af. She doesn't audit strangers posts to play mind-reader and scream 'bullcrap' over using a guy's actual jersey number. #18 is branded on his back, roster and merch- no disrespect, just facts. Your pettiness is embarrassing.
I don't care either way but kind of seems like he has a point.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 17, 2026, 10:04:55 PMYou make my 3-year-old look mature af. She doesn't audit strangers posts to play mind-reader and scream 'bullcrap' over using a guy's actual jersey number. #18 is branded on his back, roster and merch- no disrespect, just facts. Your pettiness is embarrassing.
Again, the irony is incredible. I have a giant list of players you've mentioned in posts since the start of the season. You've referred to every single one of them by their name or initials, except for Caedin. And I'm the petty one huh?
Listen, I thought it was dumb and lame but wouldn't have said anything until you came out with the whole "I appreciate him for the person he is." Except you refuse to even call him by his name.
So yes, it's bullcrap (and bullcrap is being auto-edited by Scoop, by the way).
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 17, 2026, 02:02:29 PMYa. I mean I'm not sitting here with bells and whistles rooting for the other team. But I'm definitely looking forward to the offseason and watching Shaka get the program back where it belongs. The first time going into MSG since early Wojo where the Big East Tournament feels next to impossible to accomplish.
Typically I'd be able to talk myself into thinking we can walk out of NY with a title. Not this team.
Never root for time to move more quickly.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on February 18, 2026, 01:17:33 PMNever root for time to move more quickly.
Some great advice.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on February 18, 2026, 01:17:33 PMNever root for time to move more quickly.
You sure about that?
*Gestures broadly*
Back to the topic - looks like we are going portalling and there seems to be a consensus we need a center - how about Amaël L'Etang from Dayton? 7' 1" 230 lbs- he is a sophomore, PTS 11.2 150+ REB 5.6 150+ AST 1.2 150+ FG% 47.8
ABD
I will just patiently wait for Willard nicknames of new portal additions
So, during the broadcast, they mentioned we would be hitting the portal for a (paraphrase) "seasoned vet to show Nigel the ropes"...and that was the end of the portal talk.
I certainly agree a decent *backup* for Nigel would be good, but I don't think he needs someone ahead of him, unless Shaka would like to slide him over to SG.
I was more shocked that (after talking to Shaka, according to them) they didn't mention trying to improve the frontcourt through the portal!
Quote from: rocky_warrior on February 19, 2026, 10:34:56 AMSo, during the broadcast, they mentioned we would be hitting the portal for a (paraphrase) "seasoned vet to show Nigel the ropes"...and that was the end of the portal talk.
I certainly agree a decent *backup* for Nigel would be good, but I don't think he needs someone ahead of him, unless Shaka would like to slide him over to SG.
I was more shocked that (after talking to Shaka, according to them) they didn't mention trying to improve the frontcourt through the portal!
To me, that was clearly Andy Katz talking out of his a** with no inside knowledge whatsoever.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 19, 2026, 11:01:41 AMTo me, that was clearly Andy Katz talking out of his a** with no inside knowledge whatsoever.
So you're choosing to listen to what isn't being said, instead of what is being said?
Quote from: rocky_warrior on February 19, 2026, 11:04:41 AMSo you're choosing to listen to what isn't being said, instead of what is being said?
I'm choosing to use common sense.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 19, 2026, 11:09:45 AMI'm choosing to use common sense.
What is making you finally do that?!
Quote from: panda on February 19, 2026, 11:19:50 AMWhat is making you finally do that?!
You're projecting again.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 19, 2026, 11:01:41 AMTo me, that was clearly Andy Katz talking out of his a** with no inside knowledge whatsoever.
1. Why would Katz go on air and fabricate a statement like that?
2. Why are we assuming "a seasoned vet to show Nigel the ropes" means another point guard? Can't Nigel, and other young players, learn from a player at another position?
I think the read from those comments we're not discussing is that Shaka doesn't trust his upperclassmen as leaders and wants to bring in someone to mentor the younger guys.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 19, 2026, 12:39:18 PMI think the read from those comments we're not discussing is that Shaka doesn't trust his upperclassmen as leaders and wants to bring in someone to mentor the younger guys.
That's a fair take.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 19, 2026, 12:39:18 PM1. Why would Katz go on air and fabricate a statement like that?
2. Why are we assuming "a seasoned vet to show Nigel the ropes" means another point guard? Can't Nigel, and other young players, learn from a player at another position?
I think the read from those comments we're not discussing is that Shaka doesn't trust his upperclassmen as leaders and wants to bring in someone to mentor the younger guys.
Does anyone have the exact quote or when he said this during the game? I'll go back to my recording and listen to it again.
If the quote was merely about a vacuum in leadership, I don't think he framed it well.
It came off to me that losing Sean significantly impacted this season's results and that all they really needed in the portal for next season is to get Nigel a back-up, which is absurd.
It came off to me as completely oblivious in regard to what this season's issues are and what is needed to get back to winning next season.
Happy to listen again and see if get a different impression.
As for actually bringing in transfers, I found this interesting.
On NBA Radio this morning the Unv. of Utah GM, Wes Wilcox, said he has 9 scouts working on transfer player evaluations. He said it is the same setup as the Pro Personnel department in NBA front offices, and separate from HS and international scouting.
I love how people are just discovering Nigel now. Shows how irrelevant we have been.
https://x.com/i/status/2024837907740086711
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 20, 2026, 09:23:33 AMI love how people are just discovering Nigel now. Shows how irrelevant we have been.
https://x.com/i/status/2024837907740086711
One no name dildo finds out about Nigel, and it is an indictment of how bad we are?
Quote from: WhiteTrash on February 20, 2026, 09:20:02 AMAs for actually bringing in transfers, I found this interesting.
On NBA Radio this morning the Unv. of Utah GM, Wes Wilcox, said he has 9 scouts working on transfer player evaluations. He said it is the same setup as the Pro Personnel department in NBA front offices, and separate from HS and international scouting.
How do they know these players will transfer? Is Utah reaching out to their agents?
Quote from: Hards Alumni on February 20, 2026, 09:26:26 AMOne no name dildo finds out about Nigel, and it is an indictment of how bad we are?
It's not just one guy. That was just comical to me.
"Will be one of the most sought after players on April 7."
As if that's new news.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on February 20, 2026, 09:37:49 AMHow do they know these players will transfer? Is Utah reaching out to their agents?
I don't know. They didn't press him on specifics.
I simply found it interesting how the Utah GM staffs his program.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on February 20, 2026, 09:37:49 AMHow do they know these players will transfer? Is Utah reaching out to their agents?
Answer: tampering. Tampering is rampant in major college athletics in general. Danny Hurley has spoken a few times about this.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 20, 2026, 09:54:34 AMAnswer: tampering. Tampering is rampant in major college athletics in general. Danny Hurley has spoken a few times about this.
Are scouts from one program talking with a player's agent "tampering?"
Quote from: Hards Alumni on February 20, 2026, 09:26:26 AMOne no name dildo finds out about Nigel, and it is an indictment of how bad we are?
Lol exactly. Just more great stuff from Greg Gard's and Karter Knox's biggest fan.
Quote from: The Sultan on February 20, 2026, 10:06:32 AMAre scouts from one program talking with a player's agent "tampering?"
That is a very gray area that the NCAA won't even touch to my knowledge, so I will not pretend I know the answer to that.
Quote from: MUbiz on February 20, 2026, 11:12:43 AMThat is a very gray area that the NCAA won't even touch to my knowledge, so I will not pretend I know the answer to that.
My guess is the answer depends on what side the coach is on.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on February 20, 2026, 09:26:26 AMOne no name dildo finds out about Nigel, and it is an indictment of how bad we are?
Well, our 9-18 record is an indictment of how bad we are ... but your overall point is well-taken.
Quote from: The Sultan on February 20, 2026, 10:06:32 AMAre scouts from one program talking with a player's agent "tampering?"
If anything came out of that interview, that appears to be Shaka's may concern in prioritizing retention. If NJ goes to Utah or elsewhere, I guess we'll know. If he stays we'll at least know the program has the dough to keep some players which will be a good sign. I would imagine the "most sought after players" already have multiple offers known to their agents before they enter the portal. I am sure the "schools" know this as well to make a counter offer.
I guess the real question is how many "scouts" does Marquette have looking at potential transfers?
Quote from: Pakuni on February 19, 2026, 12:39:18 PM1. Why would Katz go on air and fabricate a statement like that?
Because his job is to say stuff and he said dumb stuff. Be wary of those who take the words of media, coaches and pretty much anyone as Gospel. #repent
Moustapha Thiam 7'2" - 255 lbs had 28 and 8 in a dominating win AT Kansas today.
Wes Miller likely getting canned at Cincy. Get Ousmane Barro on the horn to vouch for Marquette. Both from Dakar, Senegal.
https://x.com/i/status/2025304683175129254
Quote from: Jay Bee on February 21, 2026, 10:38:27 AMBecause his job is to say stuff and he said dumb stuff. Be wary of those who take the words of media, coaches and pretty much anyone as Gospel. #repent
Because Shaka has always been transparent! :)
Quote from: panda on December 15, 2025, 11:52:52 AMThis season is gone. Minimal to no hope on the development front for much of the roster.
Given it's Christmas time, drop your wish list for next season.
I'll start - Nolan Minessale. Ripping it up for the Tommies this year with flashes last year. Would be great to roster a former Hilltopper as well !
Bump - stay tuned for more panda Easter eggs
Quote from: BCHoopster on December 15, 2025, 12:01:25 PMDeciding between staying at St. Thomas or a very big money bag at of course Iowa St
Quote from: BCHoopster on December 15, 2025, 04:58:39 PMWill never get the money at MU, so forget him
Look who was Mr. Negative in this topic. Shocking.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 20, 2026, 05:44:44 PMLook who was Mr. Negative in this topic. Shocking.
Yup. He's Eeyore #1.
At least #2 - eeyore69 - doesn't routinely post false crapola.
I think we need another point guard. I know Minessale can handle the rock, so can Stevens a bit, but we need another point guard on this roster because with 15 spots it would be not smart to go without a backup at the position.
Hoping they use that 15th scholarship on just that.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on April 21, 2026, 08:33:14 AMI think we need another point guard. I know Minessale can handle the rock, so can Stevens a bit, but we need another point guard on this roster because with 15 spots it would be not smart to go without a backup at the position.
Hoping they use that 15th scholarship on just that.
Combo guard.
What quality of player do you think is going to want to come to play 8-10 MPG behind Nigel?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on April 21, 2026, 08:40:08 AMCombo guard.
What quality of player do you think is going to want to come to play 8-10 MPG behind Nigel?
Exactly. Scoopers dreaming that a solid PG is going to come to MU simply to be Nigel's backup are not dealing in reality. Combo guard works though.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on April 21, 2026, 08:40:08 AMCombo guard.
What quality of player do you think is going to want to come to play 8-10 MPG behind Nigel?
Well, first I don't think you pitch it like that at all. I think the role is 15-20 mpg behind NJ, Stevens, and Minessale. If there's any injury to any of those three, that probably goes up to 20-30 mpg depending on circumstances.
Then you have to look at who you're targeting. If you are looking for someone who's getting starting offers at high-majors (like Riley was) then you probably aren't in the right business, but if you are looking at guys who would start at mid-majors, you can probably outbid them. In addition, you can pitch a far better path to the NCAA tournament, getting games on national TV night in and night out, and setting them up for a professional career, even if it's overseas.
I think you also say "if you're good enough, you can earn a starting spot" and point to NJ and Stevens last year as guys that earned those roles over time and became players we relied on.
I'd also look heavily at D2 players. Bennett Stirtz isn't the only guy from down there who can ball.
Quote from: brewcity77 on April 21, 2026, 09:04:51 AMWell, first I don't think you pitch it like that at all. I think the role is 15-20 mpg behind NJ, Stevens, and Minessale. If there's any injury to any of those three, that probably goes up to 20-30 mpg depending on circumstances.
Then you have to look at who you're targeting. If you are looking for someone who's getting starting offers at high-majors (like Riley was) then you probably aren't in the right business, but if you are looking at guys who would start at mid-majors, you can probably outbid them. In addition, you can pitch a far better path to the NCAA tournament, getting games on national TV night in and night out, and setting them up for a professional career, even if it's overseas.
I think you also say "if you're good enough, you can earn a starting spot" and point to NJ and Stevens last year as guys that earned those roles over time and became players we relied on.
I'd also look heavily at D2 players. Bennett Stirtz isn't the only guy from down there who can ball.
There is no starting spot or significant minutes available for a pure PG unless there's a serious injury, in which case we're most likley f*cked anyway.
I suppose you could find a mid-major starter at PG that would be willing to play limited minutes if his compensation as higher.
However, there is still real opportunity for minutes for a combo guard. You're going to get a higher quality player than you would if you're looking strictly for a NJ back-up.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on April 21, 2026, 09:26:25 AMThere is no starting spot or significant minutes available for a pure PG unless there's a serious injury, in which case we're most likley f*cked anyway.
I suppose you could find a mid-major starter at PG that would be willing to play limited minutes if his compensation as higher.
However, there is still real opportunity for minutes for a combo guard. You're going to get a higher quality player than you would if you're looking strictly for a NJ back-up.
Our offense can certainly function with two point guards on the court. NJ has a 6'3" wingspan, so while it's not ideal, he can guard some 2s and 3s if necessary. Probably won't want to run that out against a UConn that will have 6'6"+ at every non-PG position, but not every opponent will be UConn.
Combo like Riley would be ideal, but if you have to take someone who's just going to play either as a PG or dual-PG, we have the flexibility to offer more than 8-10 mpg. But I don't think we're in the market for another transfer guard, so it's probably all just wishcasting. Though I guess this is the thread for that.
If Riley can score, shoot it would be great to sign him and tell him there is an open starting spot. NJ, Royce, Fru, Minnesale have the 4 spots locked. We need scoring.
Believe #5 is open. Currently, Owen's and Steven's battling for that last spot. Neither really impressed last year. Let Riley or another player come in and compete. Perhaps not viable, as a portal player may want a guarantee of starting
Quote from: Captain Quette on April 21, 2026, 09:49:31 AMIf Riley can score, shoot it would be great to sign him and tell him there is an open starting spot. NJ, Royce, Fru, Minnesale have the 4 spots locked. We need scoring.
Believe #5 is open. Currently, Owen's and Steven's battling for that last spot. Neither really impressed last year. Let Riley or another player come in and compete. Perhaps not viable, as a portal player may want a guarantee of starting
I think the Riley ship has sailed. Yesterday, the more knowledgeable posters here were saying it's Oklahoma and Cincy after he canceled his visit to MU.
Quote from: Captain Quette on April 21, 2026, 09:49:31 AMIf Riley can score, shoot it would be great to sign him and tell him there is an open starting spot. NJ, Royce, Fru, Minnesale have the 4 spots locked. We need scoring.
Believe #5 is open. Currently, Owen's and Steven's battling for that last spot. Neither really impressed last year. Let Riley or another player come in and compete. Perhaps not viable, as a portal player may want a guarantee of starting
I wouldn't say we need scoring. Shooting? Yes. But we will score.
Quote from: Captain Quette on April 21, 2026, 09:49:31 AMIf Riley can score, shoot it would be great to sign him and tell him there is an open starting spot. NJ, Royce, Fru, Minnesale have the 4 spots locked. We need scoring.
Believe #5 is open. Currently, Owen's and Steven's battling for that last spot. Neither really impressed last year. Let Riley or another player come in and compete. Perhaps not viable, as a portal player may want a guarantee of starting
Stevens was pretty impressive to me during the last half of conference play. He was considerably better than Owens.
If Owens takes a huge leap and deserves to start, I have no issue with it. But at this point I'd be pretty surprised if Stevens is not a starter. I think you're underselling him a bit.
Paint Touches seems to think Minessale can slot in at PG so Riley could be surplus to requirements even if we could get him.
Quote from: Captain Quette on April 21, 2026, 09:49:31 AMIf Riley can score, shoot it would be great to sign him and tell him there is an open starting spot. NJ, Royce, Fru, Minnesale have the 4 spots locked. We need scoring.
Believe #5 is open. Currently, Owen's and Steven's battling for that last spot. Neither really impressed last year. Let Riley or another player come in and compete. Perhaps not viable, as a portal player may want a guarantee of starting
Stevens was significantly better than Owens. As of now, Stevens will be one of the better 3 point shooters MU has next year. Owens will have to beat out Minessale for the 3 spot to start, IMO.
Agree we need shooting, good call. Looked at some tape on Minnesale and he can score, not sure about his 3pt shooting. Overall great signing by Shaka.
On Steven's, I checked out his game logs and he scored in double figures in only 2 out of his last 22 games. He struggled against good competition. Not writing him off at all as he shoot 37% from 3 and played well, for a freshman. I just don't see above average athleticism, speed, skills that makes me think he is a starter on a good team. If could make that jump in year 2, we all hope.
Quote from: Captain Quette on April 21, 2026, 10:05:39 AMOn Steven's, I checked out his game logs and he scored in double figures in only 2 out of his last 22 games. He struggled against good competition.
#FakeNews #Lies
It's Stevens, and you need to learn to read game logs in the correct order.
Quote from: Captain Quette on April 21, 2026, 10:05:39 AMAgree we need shooting, good call. Looked at some tape on Minnesale and he can score, not sure about his 3pt shooting. Overall great signing by Shaka.
On Steven's, I checked out his game logs and he scored in double figures in only 2 out of his last 22 games. He struggled against good competition. Not writing him off at all as he shoot 37% from 3 and played well, for a freshman. I just don't see above average athleticism, speed, skills that makes me think he is a starter on a good team. If could make that jump in year 2, we all hope.
I think you were looking at the game log in reverse. He was in double figures in 6 of our last 11 games, with two other games being at 9 and 8. He averaged 11.5 ppg over the last 11 games of the year.
Quote from: Captain Quette on April 21, 2026, 10:05:39 AMOn Steven's, I checked out his game logs and he scored in double figures in only 2 out of his last 22 games.
Uh....
March 7 vs UCONN: 11 points
March 4 at Providence: 21 points
February 24 vs Georgetown: 16 points
February 10 at Villanova: 18 points
February 7 vs Butler: 18 points
January 27 vs Creighton: 14 points
That's 6/11 of his last games in double figures. Did you read the game log in reverse?
Quote from: Captain Quette on April 21, 2026, 10:05:39 AMAgree we need shooting, good call. Looked at some tape on Minnesale and he can score, not sure about his 3pt shooting. Overall great signing by Shaka.
On Steven's, I checked out his game logs and he scored in double figures in only 2 out of his last 22 games. He struggled against good competition. Not writing him off at all as he shoot 37% from 3 and played well, for a freshman. I just don't see above average athleticism, speed, skills that makes me think he is a starter on a good team. If could make that jump in year 2, we all hope.
What on earth are you talking about? Stevens scored in double figured in 6 of his last 11 games.
I was very impressed by Stevens last year. He showed poise from day one and is ahead of schedule. Never looked overwhelmed which is rare for a true freshman.
AS is rightfully overshadowed by Nigel but he contributed way more than we typically see a freshman.
Of course I'm just a random fan speculating, but I suspect Shaka views him as a reliable starter at the 2. I see Owens being 6th man with upside, but feel more confident that Stevens will continue to improve than Owens.
Another center RIM protector who can lay the wood....One credible center is not enough....
We can do PG by committee when James is resting.....
Need Hamilton to be 15th guy at the end of the bench....
Maybe he will grow some gonads....
Quote from: burger on April 21, 2026, 10:49:42 AMAnother center RIM protector who can lay the wood....One credible center is not enough....
We can do PG by committee when James is resting.....
Need Hamilton to be 15th guy at the end of the bench....
Maybe he will grow some gonads....
O.....k..
A....
Y
Looked at game logs in reverse order on Steven's. Still see him as 4 - 8 rotation player. The one area that could elevate him would be better 3 pt shooting, recipient of drive and kick passes.
I sat pretty close in 2 games and he got cooked on D from lack of speed. Hopefully off season workouts help him w strength, skills, speed. If he is a rotational player, that likely means we are a pretty good team.
Quote from: burger on April 21, 2026, 10:49:42 AMAnother center RIM protector who can lay the wood....One credible center is not enough....
We can do PG by committee when James is resting.....
Need Hamilton to be 15th guy at the end of the bench....
Maybe he will grow some gonads....
Dude, WTF kind of post is this?
Quote from: Captain Quette on April 21, 2026, 11:20:46 AMLooked at game logs in reverse order on Steven's. Still see him as 4 - 8 rotation player. The one area that could elevate him would be better 3 pt shooting, recipient of drive and kick passes.
I sat pretty close in 2 games and he got cooked on D from lack of speed. Hopefully off season workouts help him w strength, skills, speed. If he is a rotational player, that likely means we are a pretty good team.
He shot 37.5% from three on over 4 attempts per game as a freshman. In conference, he shot 41.9% on 4.65 attempts per game. 5th best in the Big East.
He also is one of our best defenders.
I feel like a lot of Scoopers don't actually watch Marquette basketball games...
Quote from: The Sultan on April 21, 2026, 12:36:17 PMI feel like a lot of Scoopers don't actually watch Marquette basketball games...
Hard to reconcile:
"I misread the game logs that I had to look at to see how he did scoring to I watched him get cooked on defense"
Quote from: The Sultan on April 21, 2026, 12:36:17 PMI feel like a lot of Scoopers don't actually watch Marquette basketball games...
That was my thought exactly! If for one second Captain Quette (or anyone else) read that Stevens scored in double figures in just 2 games down the stretch of the season, AND BELIEVED IT, they either have cognitive decline or simply did not watch the games.
Stevens, James and Parham were our 3 best players from mid Jan on. None of their starting jobs are in jeopardy.
Quote from: Captain Quette on April 21, 2026, 11:20:46 AMLooked at game logs in reverse order on Steven's. Still see him as 4 - 8 rotation player. The one area that could elevate him would be better 3 pt shooting, recipient of drive and kick passes.
I sat pretty close in 2 games and he got cooked on D from lack of speed. Hopefully off season workouts help him w strength, skills, speed. If he is a rotational player, that likely means we are a pretty good team.
(https://media.tenor.com/r8tcf2YZ5TIAAAAM/blinking-eyes-white-guy.gif)
Quote from: 94Warrior on April 21, 2026, 12:50:35 PMStevens, James and Parham were our 3 best players from mid Jan on. None of their starting jobs are in jeopardy.
Ehh, not sure I can agree on Stevens either being one of our best 3 or having his starting job not in jeopardy.
(Chase is at least in the first discussion; multiple others potentially in the other).
And, to save you from having to look it up: MU did win some games near the end of the season (including NCAA runner-up UCONN), and did not finish last in the BIG East.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on April 21, 2026, 12:42:29 PMHard to reconcile:
"I misread the game logs that I had to look at to see how he did scoring to I watched him get cooked on defense"
One is data review, though done quickly and erroneously, the other is in person viewing. Easy to reconsile.
He may be one of OUR best defenders but he is not a good defender. Easily beat off the dribble and slow to rotate. This is an easy take. Say what you want.
Quote from: 94Warrior on April 21, 2026, 12:57:53 PMAnd, to save you from having to look it up: MU did win some games near the end of the season (including NCAA runner-up UCONN), and did not finish last in the BIG East.
Nah that was the first half of the season when AS was scoring in double figures still.
Looking at freshmen at MU:
"Looking at just past Marquette players, Stevens posted the 5th highest BPR since 2014, and the 2nd best under Shaka. Whether he got rewarded or not, there is no denying Adrien's impressive campaign and bright future. He's a key component of the exciting core MU has found the last 3 months with Nigel and Royce."
https://painttouches.com/2026/03/10/was-this-the-best-freshman-class-in-recent-big-east-history/
I based my opinion on faulty research, but now I'm gonna double-down thanks to the eye test.
Quote from: Captain Quette on April 21, 2026, 10:05:39 AMAgree we need shooting, good call. Looked at some tape on Minnesale and he can score, not sure about his 3pt shooting. Overall great signing by Shaka.
On Steven's, I checked out his game logs and he scored in double figures in only 2 out of his last 22 games. He struggled against good competition. Not writing him off at all as he shoot 37% from 3 and played well, for a freshman. I just don't see above average athleticism, speed, skills that makes me think he is a starter on a good team. If could make that jump in year 2, we all hope.
You're crazy.