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)
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)
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.