No excuses. Because if we don't get that one, it's not inconceivable we will see a 0-20 BEast record. A win would give us some hope we can actually find victories in the future.
If we win, might need to storm the court. So bad.
Quote from: Jay Bee on January 04, 2026, 03:01:11 PMIf we win, might need to storm the court. So bad.
That can't happen.
This will be a hard pill to swallow for some people, but please take it seriously from someone who has to listen to Arturas Karnisovas every summer use a 5 game win streak to justify running back a play in team:
It is in the best interest of the program that they go 0-20
Quote from: Jay Bee on January 04, 2026, 03:01:11 PMIf we win, might need to storm the court. So bad.
who do we think we are? Wisconsin football fans?
Quote from: MuggsyB on January 04, 2026, 03:00:01 PMNo excuses. Because if we don't get that one, it's not inconceivable we will see a 0-20 BEast record. A win would give us some hope we can actually find victories in the future.
Agree we beat the spread against UCONN. Now we have to Win the game against Xavier. Strong 2026 gets Marquette to The Crown or NIT.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 04, 2026, 03:18:04 PMAgree we beat the spread against UCONN. Now we have to Win the game against Xavier. Strong 2026 gets Marquette to The Crown or NIT.
🙄🙄🙄
Quote from: dpucane on January 04, 2026, 03:14:02 PMThis will be a hard pill to swallow for some people, but please take it seriously from someone who has to listen to Arturas Karnisovas every summer use a 5 game win streak to justify running back a play in team:
It is in the best interest of the program that they go 0-20
I will never root against MU to lose a game but you are absolutely right. It may not even take a winning streak to justify it. If they got a skunk or even had the right look in their eye, that may be enough for Shaka to justify running this back with no further changes.
77 - A " strong " finish gets them to the
Crown or NIT ?? lol
U day drinking?
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 04, 2026, 03:18:04 PMAgree we beat the spread against UCONN. Now we have to Win the game against Xavier. Strong 2026 gets Marquette to The Crown or NIT.
I assume you mean November and December 2026?
Quote from: dpucane on January 04, 2026, 03:14:02 PMThis will be a hard pill to swallow for some people, but please take it seriously from someone who has to listen to Arturas Karnisovas every summer use a 5 game win streak to justify running back a play in team:
It is in the best interest of the program that they go 0-20
Nah, these young guys need to learn how to win and close games. Any experience they get this year will help next year.
Quote from: BM1090 on January 04, 2026, 03:34:29 PMNah, these young guys need to learn how to win and close games. Any experience they get this year will help next year.
They can't learn that because they're not skilled enough to get themselves in those situations.
It's also extremely unlikely most of these guys are back next year.
Counting on a W Wednesday.
Why? Shaka abandons his principles or Shaka doesn't return?
Quote from: tower912 on January 04, 2026, 03:52:56 PMWhy? Shaka abandons his principles or Shaka doesn't return?
Are Shaka's principles that they are guaranteed a spot on a basketball team even if they aren't good enough? Because I have never heard him say anything like that.
Quote from: tower912 on January 04, 2026, 03:52:56 PMWhy? Shaka abandons his principles or Shaka doesn't return?
Which principles would require abandonment?
Quote from: SOSW on January 04, 2026, 04:00:12 PMAre Shaka's principles that they are guaranteed a spot on a basketball team even if they aren't good enough? Because I have never heard him say anything like that.
His principles are RGV. I haven't listened to his post game, but I imagine that AS playing 30+, NJ getting what he wanted even though he didn't make anything, and Josh going for 6 and 6 will be cited as building blocks.
Quote from: tower912 on January 04, 2026, 03:52:56 PMWhy? Shaka abandons his principles or Shaka doesn't return?
Such a disingenuous question about "abondons his principals". You can do better.
So you're of the position that Shaka "abandoned his principles" when he went from taking transfers to not taking them? Shaka must not be a very principled person according to you. Harsh take on MU's coach. Is that the kind of coach we want?
Quote from: tower912 on January 04, 2026, 04:04:59 PMHis principles are RGV. I haven't listened to his post game, but I imagine that AS playing 30+, NJ getting what he wanted even though he didn't make anything, and Josh going for 6 and 6 will be cited as building blocks.
Which doesn't preclude players leaving.
Quote from: tower912 on January 04, 2026, 03:52:56 PMWhy? Shaka abandons his principles or Shaka doesn't return?
If you're responding to me:
A) I think Shaka is starting to give up the way he's talking about his players. Could easily see him quitting or at least Buzz-cutting these guys.
B) I think a lot of the players might feel scammed by Shaka and this nonsense. The parents too. This is humiliating for all of them. They can easily be swayed elsewhere.
C) We're at the point that I think we'll see an all out revolt from the fanbase if Shaka/Broeker/Kimo seriously come out there in the spring and have the nerve to say they're doing things the right way. You're just telling the fans and donors to go f*** themselves at that point.
The only way they can save face, all the way up to Kimo, is to go out in the spring and say "We screwed up. We can use roster movement and still respect the sport and the team. We're hiring a GM who will get funds and fix this" [If Shaka does stay I would not at all be surprised if Broeker is the fall guy fwiw]
Bottom line is something has to give. This is a 5 month humiliation ritual.
Quote from: dpucane on January 04, 2026, 03:48:10 PMThey can't learn that because they're not skilled enough to get themselves in those situations.
It's also extremely unlikely most of these guys are back next year.
Huh? They've already been in that situation at least 3 times this season.
Quote from: dpucane on January 04, 2026, 04:15:44 PMIf you're responding to me:
A) I think Shaka is starting to give up the way he's talking about his players. Could easily see him quitting or at least Buzz-cutting these guys.
B) I think a lot of the players might feel scammed by Shaka and this nonsense. The parents too. This is humiliating for all of them. They can easily be swayed elsewhere.
C) We're at the point that I think we'll see an all out revolt from the fanbase if Shaka/Broeker/Kimo seriously come out there in the spring and have the nerve to say they're doing things the right way. You're just telling the fans and donors to go f*** themselves at that point.
The only way they can save face, all the way up to Kimo, is to go out in the spring and say "We screwed up. We can use roster movement and still respect the sport and the team. We're hiring a GM who will get funds and fix this" [If Shaka does stay I would not at all be surprised if Broeker is the fall guy fwiw]
Bottom line is something has to give. This is a 5 month humiliation ritual.
A lot of assumptions based on very little to nothing here.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on January 04, 2026, 04:08:31 PMSuch a disingenuous question about "abondons his principals". You can do better.
So you're of the position that Shaka "abandoned his principles" when he went from taking transfers to not taking them? Shaka must not be a very principled person according to you. Harsh take on MU's coach. Is that the kind of coach we want?
Principles not principals.
I have always said that I don't think Shaka takes another transfer unless there are unexpected departures. I still think that way. So, if 3-4 guys transfer out, particularly if the combination of transfers leaves the remaining roster particularly thin in a particular area, I assume he will bring in a couple of replacements.
Zaide is one, but I am not convinced he is enough to send Shaka to the portal. Phillips, Miletic, Egbuono, Ethan Johnston.
Now, others will play the what if transfers game. I won't. I will say that if think he sticks with growth/development until he feels the roster is unbalanced or simply not enough players.
Quote from: mileskishnish72 on January 04, 2026, 03:51:46 PMCounting on a W Wednesday.
I wouldn't count on it.
I don't see who MU has that can match up with Carroll and X has a few guys who can make 3's. They aren't a good team but seem like a bad matchup for MU.
One possible thing in MU's favor. I will be going out of town this week and will miss the games Wednesday and Saturday.Those will be the first home games I've missed in over two years. It would figure that I would miss MU's only conference win of the season.
Quote from: tower912 on January 04, 2026, 04:28:12 PMPrinciples not principals.
I have always said that I don't think Shaka takes another transfer unless there are unexpected departures. I still think that way. So, if 3-4 guys transfer out, particularly if the combination of transfers leaves the remaining roster particularly thin in a particular area, I assume he will bring in a couple of replacements.
Zaide is one, but I am not convinced he is enough to send Shaka to the portal. Phillips, Miletic, Egbuono, Ethan Johnston.
Now, others will play the what if transfers game. I won't. I will say that if think he sticks with growth/development until he feels the roster is unbalanced or simply not enough players.
Then he'll be out of a job after next season because there just isn't enough talent on the team.
So I definitely think we will see transfers in.
Not to mention I think the people funding this program will both rip their hair out and their checks apart.
Quote from: dpucane on January 04, 2026, 04:15:44 PMIf you're responding to me:
A) I think Shaka is starting to give up the way he's talking about his players. Could easily see him quitting or at least Buzz-cutting these guys.
B) I think a lot of the players might feel scammed by Shaka and this nonsense. The parents too. This is humiliating for all of them. They can easily be swayed elsewhere.
C) We're at the point that I think we'll see an all out revolt from the fanbase if Shaka/Broeker/Kimo seriously come out there in the spring and have the nerve to say they're doing things the right way. You're just telling the fans and donors to go f*** themselves at that point.
The only way they can save face, all the way up to Kimo, is to go out in the spring and say "We screwed up. We can use roster movement and still respect the sport and the team. We're hiring a GM who will get funds and fix this" [If Shaka does stay I would not at all be surprised if Broeker is the fall guy fwiw]
Bottom line is something has to give. This is a 5 month humiliation ritual.
Strong words. I'm just curious where the "revolt" and other evidence is? Or is this just pure speculation?
Quote from: dpucane on January 04, 2026, 03:48:10 PMThey can't learn that because they're not skilled enough to get themselves in those situations.
It's also extremely unlikely most of these guys are back next year.
They were in those situations against Dayton, Oklahoma, Maryland, Georgetown, and Seton Hall. I'd expect they'll be in them again on Wednesday against X.
Quote from: MuggsyB on January 04, 2026, 04:36:10 PMStrong words. I'm just curious where the "revolt" and other evidence is? Or is this just pure speculation?
do you wanna watch this another year?
Quote from: BM1090 on January 04, 2026, 04:38:22 PMThey were in those situations against Dayton, Oklahoma, Maryland, Georgetown, and Seton Hall. I'd expect they'll be in them again on Wednesday against X.
And they learned they're bad and can't finish because they are bad
Quote from: dpucane on January 04, 2026, 04:41:20 PMAnd they learned they're bad and can't finish because they are bad
This is dumb.
Quote from: MuggsyB on January 04, 2026, 05:12:17 PMGod no.
well there ya go, imagine how everyone will feel if they come out this spring and say they believe in what they're doing.
Imagine how Junior students will feel when they hear "you gotta put up with this again next year". Are they gonna want to go to games? hell no.
Quote from: tower912 on January 04, 2026, 04:28:12 PMPrinciples not principals.
I have always said that I don't think Shaka takes another transfer unless there are unexpected departures. I still think that way. So, if 3-4 guys transfer out, particularly if the combination of transfers leaves the remaining roster particularly thin in a particular area, I assume he will bring in a couple of replacements.
Zaide is one, but I am not convinced he is enough to send Shaka to the portal. Phillips, Miletic, Egbuono, Ethan Johnston.
Now, others will play the what if transfers game. I won't. I will say that if think he sticks with growth/development until he feels the roster is unbalanced or simply not enough players.
So we agree Shaka does not have a principle regarding transfers? If not he has abandoned it already in his MU career.
IMO, Shaka made a thoughtful strategic decision to attempt create an advantage in the marketplace by not playing in the portal. Kudos to Shaka for trying that, as it takes "onions" to buck the trend. But when the strategy doesn't work, good leaders pivot.
I'd almost guarantee one of Shaka's core coaching principles is to win as much as possible within the rules and with the resources he has.
As a fan who has been loyal to MU for 40+ years and is watching the worst team I've seen, if he brings this crew back next year and doesn't tell some of these players to move along at year's end, I will not be renewing our season tickets next year. I am confident that Shaka is not blind and when looking at this roster assumed that this was going to be a very difficult year. It's fine to stick with a strategy as long as it works. Obviously, this strategy is an abject failure. It's time to change otherwise he will not survive another season like this.
Quote from: Superfan on January 04, 2026, 05:36:33 PMAs a fan who has been loyal to MU for 40+ years and is watching the worst team I've seen, if he brings this crew back next year and doesn't tell some of these players to move along at year's end, I will not be renewing our season tickets next year. I am confident that Shaka is not blind and when looking at this roster assumed that this was going to be a very difficult year. It's fine to stick with a strategy as long as it works. Obviously, this strategy is an abject failure. It's time to change otherwise he will not survive another season like this.
This is sound analysis. I believe Shaka will pivot.
I think he will too. If he doesn't the fan fallout next year will be huge and Fiserv will have many empty seats. Ticket sales = money and money talks.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on January 04, 2026, 05:30:29 PMSo we agree Shaka does not have a principle regarding transfers? If not he has abandoned it already in his MU career.
IMO, Shaka made a thoughtful strategic decision to attempt create an advantage in the marketplace by not playing in the portal. Kudos to Shaka for trying that, as it takes "onions" to buck the trend. But when the strategy doesn't work, good leaders pivot.
I'd almost guarantee one of Shaka's core coaching principles is to win as much as possible within the rules and with the resources he has.
I thought Clark played well today, but in the post presser Shaka said he had no offers so it was Marquette or no one. Same could be said about Hamilton, and as someone posted in another thread, Tre Norman only had one other high major offer. To build a team recruiting that way AND disregard the portal is coaching malpractice. Completely absurd.
I'm pretty sure Norman was a very highly rated recruit. He was a huge get at the time.
IF MU wins another game this season, hang a banner with the final score on it.
Quote from: cheebs09 on January 04, 2026, 06:24:24 PMI'm pretty sure Norman was a very highly rated recruit. He was a huge get at the time.
96th from on3
95th from 247
88th in the 247 composite
Quote from: Pakuni on January 04, 2026, 06:37:44 PM96th from on3
95th from 247
88th in the 247 composite
Not too shabby. Some high quality coaching could turn a player with those rankings into a high quality college player.
At least he stopped shooting 3's.
Muggs - this is a serious question...
Why do you think he will pivot / change?
I don't think he will change a thing unless 2 or 3 more guys leave. He's too dug in. I don't think for a minute that he will tell Tre, Sean or Hamilton to go play in the Horizon League.
Quote from: Mu8891 on January 04, 2026, 07:07:08 PMMuggs - this is a serious question...
Why do you think he will pivot / change?
I don't think he will change a thing unless 2 or 3 more guys leave. He's too dug in. I don't think for a minute that he will tell Tre, Sean or Hamilton to go play in the Horizon League.
IMO, self preservation.
Quote from: SOSW on January 04, 2026, 04:35:52 PMThen he'll be out of a job after next season because there just isn't enough talent on the team.
So I definitely think we will see transfers in.
Not to mention I think the people funding this program will both rip their hair out and their checks apart.
100% agree. If Shaka doesn't do as he did in yr 1 with transfers, he needs to be let go shortly after the season concludes. I don't like where things are at in college sports today. However, Shaka absolutely cannot run this back next year status quo. No way.
Felt we were bad this year and was hoping I was wrong. But had a feeling this morning we may have turned a corner and might be getting better. Today we beat the spread and if we can follow it up with a win against Xavier there is hope.
Quote from: dpucane on January 04, 2026, 03:14:02 PMThis will be a hard pill to swallow for some people, but please take it seriously from someone who has to listen to Arturas Karnisovas every summer use a 5 game win streak to justify running back a play in team:
It is in the best interest of the program that they go 0-20
Ha! As a Bulls fan I find some truth in this. But, the boys need a win. Progress is important. We don't want the freshman to leave out of pure embarrassment.
Nah, 0-20 is likely
Quote from: We R Final Four on January 04, 2026, 07:03:00 PMAt least he stopped shooting 3's.
Agree and could any of our players shoot in high school. I feel they could and if so what happened
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 04, 2026, 08:25:41 PMAgree and could any of our players shoot in high school. I feel they could and if so what happened
Remember when Shaka called Royce and DO offensive savants who had a long way to go on defense? How about the posters who wanted Sean to play in front of TKo? Good times.
Quote from: Mu8891 on January 04, 2026, 07:07:08 PMMuggs - this is a serious question...
Why do you think he will pivot / change?
I don't think he will change a thing unless 2 or 3 more guys leave. He's too dug in. I don't think for a minute that he will tell Tre, Sean or Hamilton to go play in the Horizon League.
My take is Shaka isn't an idiot. And he's a pretty damn good coach with the right personnel. Unfortunately, he whiffed badly on a few recruiting classes and has been stubborn for sure. The regression of some of our players is what's most troubling to me.
Now, as I've said numerous times, you can't be a 8-10 win team and a total abomination like we are this year. Regardless of past success. My feeling is Shaka will pivot, dismiss some dead weight, and will use the portal and other resources moving forward.
How about the posters who thought this would be a good team. Good times.
Are we really an abomination?
I mean if just a few more layups and 3's find the hoop each game, we are at least "in" every game. Missing layups against UConn has a valid explanation. As far as our other games and the ineptitude around the basket, I'm left saying, "We can't be this bad, can we?"
Quote from: GoFastAndWin on January 04, 2026, 09:31:02 PMAre we really an abomination?
I mean if just a few more layups and 3's find the hoop each game, we are at least "in" every game.
Hey rip, how was your nap? This is far worse than a little bad luck.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on January 04, 2026, 11:01:00 PMHey rip, how was your nap? This is far worse than a little bad luck.
It was bad joke.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on January 04, 2026, 11:27:02 PMIt was bad joke.
Lots of bad, and lots of jokes can describe what's been happening.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on January 04, 2026, 11:31:20 PMLots of bad, and lots of jokes can describe what's been happening.
So very true.
Somebody wake us all when it's over.
Just finished watching the game. I have been mildly encouraged by the last couple games. Hoping Ben can snap out of it from three and Chase gets some mojo back. Would like to see Stevens be more aggressive on the offensive end. Nigel can keep being himself. Clark had his moments. Parham is still confident at least. Would be fun to get a couple wins starting with Xavier. Would be good for the boys.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on January 04, 2026, 11:54:08 PMJust finished watching the game. I have been mildly encouraged by the last couple games.
Other than the losses, the past two... And Oklahoma have been Marquette's best games (discounting cupcakes).
Trending better, but still doesn't give me a lot of hope.
Quote from: Mu8891 on January 04, 2026, 07:07:08 PMMuggs - this is a serious question...
Why do you think he will pivot / change?
I don't think he will change a thing unless 2 or 3 more guys leave. He's too dug in. I don't think for a minute that he will tell Tre, Sean or Hamilton to go play in the Horizon League.
This is where the rubber meets the road--
With the RGV culture (though has that taken a big hit with Zaide leaving and Haynes being suspended) and the purported equity for NIL disbursement, why would 2 or 3 guys leave? Shaka is smart and won't want to have another season next year like this, and is (or better be) able to see the trend the team is on.
I think Shaka forcefully nudges some guys to look for other opportunities, and he will (in his fatherly way) help connect them to programs where they will get playing time. Then, the spin will be that seeing guys move on to places where they can expand their wings and move forward with their b-ball "careers" on a new path is for their Growth, and the Relationship between Coach and player will remain strong.
The next challenge for Shaka will be to let the remaining team know that Victory is as important as Growth, and that he'll be bringing in, via the portal, players that will be expected to contribute immediately.
Then, he'll have to find the right guys, at a cost that MU wants to pay and that doesn't totally blow up the Relationship culture.
None of this will be easy for Shaka (and, thus, there is a part of me that wonders if he might just choose to walk away), but I just don't see him being so stubborn that, even with the writing on the wall and the external concern about the program, he sticks exclusively with the path he's been on for every year but Year 1.
We shall see.
Quote from: dpucane on January 04, 2026, 03:14:02 PMThis will be a hard pill to swallow for some people, but please take it seriously from someone who has to listen to Arturas Karnisovas every summer use a 5 game win streak to justify running back a play in team:
It is in the best interest of the program that they go 0-20
This is also in the best interest of the conference. If we do get a win I'd be glad for it to come against Xavier or DePaul (or UConn out of spite), but as it stands we are currently the league's land mine. A loss to us could be the difference between a bubble team making the tourney or not. At this point I'd personally prefer to see the Big East get as many bids as possible in March, even if it comes slightly at our expense.
Quote from: mug644 on January 05, 2026, 09:33:55 AMThis is where the rubber meets the road--
With the RGV culture (though has that taken a big hit with Zaide leaving and Haynes being suspended) and the purported equity for NIL disbursement, why would 2 or 3 guys leave? Shaka is smart and won't want to have another season next year like this, and is (or better be) able to see the trend the team is on.
I think Shaka forcefully nudges some guys to look for other opportunities, and he will (in his fatherly way) help connect them to programs where they will get playing time. Then, the spin will be that seeing guys move on to places where they can expand their wings and move forward with their b-ball "careers" on a new path is for their Growth, and the Relationship between Coach and player will remain strong.
The next challenge for Shaka will be to let the remaining team know that Victory is as important as Growth (disagree-I think victory is more important), and that he'll be bringing in, via the portal, players that will be expected to contribute immediately.
Then, he'll have to find the right guys, at a cost that MU wants to pay and that doesn't totally blow up the Relationship culture.
None of this will be easy for Shaka (and, thus, there is a part of me that wonders if he might just choose to walk away (agree)), but I just don't see him being so stubborn that, even with the writing on the wall and the external concern about the program, he sticks exclusively with the path he's been on for every year but Year 1.
We shall see.
Thanks for your exceptionally well-worded,
rational post. I have not posted on this page since late November because the screaming "discussions"-
even by the low bar of scoop standards- were not something I wanted to engage in. Instead, I have relied on "likes" in lieu of posting.
I have italicized one area of disagreement and one comment that I agree is very possible just due to Shaka's nature and depth of his beliefs.
I see RGV as having taken on a life of its own and becoming blinders that have prevented Shaka from being realistic. Shoehorning the word growth into a very brief opportunity to speak after the Valpo game was not a good look, nor was stating "We believe in growth" after the UW fiasco. And I hope that at the end of this season, all the RGV merchandise is shipped off to Marquette Michigan Board of Education free of charge.
Posters who repeatedly reminding scoopers of his past success-#2 seeds, COY, etc.-seem unable to see the disconnect of then and now. It is not a seamless blanket in my opinion. The current version has been Coach Don Quixote, astride his horse Argeevee, in defense of chivalrous basketball. I want Coach Shaka Smart back. Let Argeevee spend his remaining days grazing in a pasture
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 05, 2026, 11:19:00 AMAnd I hope that at the end of this season, all the RGV merchandise is shipped off to Marquette Michigan Board of Education free of charge.
I hope kids in Venezuela are ready to learn RVG
Quote from: K1 Lover on January 05, 2026, 10:33:54 AMThis is also in the best interest of the conference. If we do get a win I'd be glad for it to come against Xavier or DePaul (or UConn out of spite), but as it stands we are currently the league's land mine. A loss to us could be the difference between a bubble team making the tourney or not. At this point I'd personally prefer to see the Big East get as many bids as possible in March, even if it comes slightly at our expense.
K1 I get your point but next year's turnaround starts this year. And James and Stevens need a few wins to reinforce their confidence and commitment to MU. They need to see a sliver of light at the end of the tunnel so they don't leave. I do get your point though.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on January 05, 2026, 12:53:08 PMK1 I get your point but next year's turnaround starts this year. And James and Stevens need a few wins to reinforce their confidence and commitment to MU. They need to see a sliver of light at the end of the tunnel so they don't leave. I do get your point though.
It's not the ability to win games this year that determines whether our better players stick around or not — it's the ability to win games
next year that matters.
If Shaka decides to do the same thing he did this season and keep dead weight around, then yes, I could potentially see some of the younger guys wanting to jump ship and take their talents elsewhere. But if Shaka decides that he's going to make off-season improvements that contribute to winning, then that's a pretty compelling reason to stay as a player.
We beat Little Rock. Now let's beat Little Rick.
Quote from: K1 Lover on January 05, 2026, 01:34:35 PMIt's not the ability to win games this year that determines whether our better players stick around or not — it's the ability to win games next year that matters.
If Shaka decides to do the same thing he did this season and keep dead weight around, then yes, I could potentially see some of the younger guys wanting to jump ship and take their talents elsewhere. But if Shaka decides that he's going to make off-season improvements that contribute to winning, then that's a pretty compelling reason to stay as a player.
They'll want players brought in to increase MU's chances of winning ... but not players brought in who reduce their PT.
Quote from: MU82 on January 05, 2026, 02:26:34 PMThey'll want players brought in to increase MU's chances of winning ... but not players brought in who reduce their PT.
I'd say good luck transferring out because every major program is going to have competition for PT. Plus, I really hope MU does not have players, or many players, adverse to competition.
We're gonna beat X. And then raise a banner!
Quote from: MU82 on January 05, 2026, 08:57:56 PMWe're gonna beat X. And then raise a banner!
Raise the banner first. You know...
just in case..
Who wou)d you start on Wednesday? I think bringing Ben in off the bench is silly.
If Gold is gonna be sent into the game just 2 minutes after the tip and then plays 30-35 minutes, it doesn't matter.
Quote from: MU82 on January 06, 2026, 11:51:54 AMIf Gold is gonna be sent into the game just 2 minutes after the tip and then plays 30-35 minutes, it doesn't matter.
It only rewards mediocrity (actually less than mediocrity) and shows a real stubbornness by our coach. If I'm a player on this team worth anything, it may be a reason to enter the portal as well. I know as a parent of James and Stevens I'd be saying "WTF? Is he doing". Other than that you are right, rather have Ben play 35 min rather than Caedin.
Quote from: MU82 on January 06, 2026, 11:51:54 AMIf Gold is gonna be sent into the game just 2 minutes after the tip and then plays 30-35 minutes, it doesn't matter.
Disagree.
Imagine we don't start every game in a 5 to 7 point hole? Would be awesome.
-5 in Caedin's brief 4 minutes on Tuesday. It doesn't have to be like this.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 06, 2026, 12:06:56 PMDisagree.
Imagine we don't start every game in a 5 to 7 point hole? Would be awesome.
-5 in Caedin's brief 4 minutes on Tuesday. It doesn't have to be like this.
And usually 2 or 3 quick fouls which gets the opponent closer to the bonus
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 06, 2026, 12:06:56 PMDisagree.
Imagine we don't start every game in a 5 to 7 point hole? Would be awesome.
We were down 2-0 when Hamilton was subbed out vs UConn.
We were down 4-1 when he subbed out vs SH; he had the 1 point.
We were up 5-0 when he subbed out vs Creighton; he had 2 points.
We were up 5-2 when he subbed out vs Georgetown.
We were down 5-3 when he subbed out vs Purdue.
Shall I go on?
Look, I wouldn't start Hamilton. Just as I wouldn't have started Reggie Smith (as Buzz did) or Bill Neary (as Al did).
But of this team's many problems, Hamilton starting in games when Gold plays 30+ minutes is way down the list IMHO.
Time to beat X tomorrow and make our way to The Crown
Quote from: MU82 on January 06, 2026, 12:32:33 PMWe were down 2-0 when Hamilton was subbed out vs UConn.
We were down 4-1 when he subbed out vs SH; he had the 1 point.
We were up 5-0 when he subbed out vs Creighton; he had 2 points.
We were up 5-2 when he subbed out vs Georgetown.
We were down 5-3 when he subbed out vs Purdue.
Shall I go on?
Look, I wouldn't start Hamilton. Just as I wouldn't have started Reggie Smith (as Buzz did) or Bill Neary (as Al did).
But of this team's many problems, Hamilton starting in games when Gold plays 30+ minutes is way down the list IMHO.
Disagree but reasonable minds may disgaree Hamilton's minutes have gone down and rightfully so. Bill Neary was better than Hamilton and Bill contributed to winning as has Ben Gold for many years for Marquette and Internationally. Hamilton came in at the end of the 1st half against Seton Hall and Marquette lost the lead. Hamilton sucks the energy out of the team the fans and contributes to losing not winning May be wrong but that is my feeling. Time to Beat X any way we can even with Hamilton and get to The Crown. Vegas is not bad.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 06, 2026, 02:00:31 PMDisagree but reasonable minds may disgaree Hamilton's minutes have gone down and rightfully so. Bill Neary was better than Hamilton and Bill contributed to winning as has Ben Gold for many years for Marquette and Internationally. Hamilton came in at the end of the 1st half against Seton Hall and Marquette lost the lead. Hamilton sucks the energy out of the team the fans and contributes to losing not winning May be wrong but that is my feeling. Time to Beat X any way we can and get to The Crown. Vegas is not bad.
The Crown is only taking 8 teams this year, so we probably still aren't getting in.
And if getting excited for the Crown is where we're at, yikes.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 06, 2026, 02:00:31 PMDisagree but reasonable minds may disgaree Hamilton's minutes have gone down and rightfully so. Bill Neary was better than Hamilton and Bill contributed to winning as has Ben Gold for many years for Marquette and Internationally. Hamilton came in at the end of the 1st half against Seton Hall and Marquette lost the lead. Hamilton sucks the energy out of the team the fans and contributes to losing not winning May be wrong but that is my feeling. Time to Beat X any way we can and get to The Crown. Vegas is not bad.
I never,
ever thought that we would be hoping for an invitation to The Crown. :o
If we go there and win a game, Marquette fans should sub out the WE ARE! MARQUETTE! chant near the end of the game for WE R! GV!
Quote from: brewcity77 on January 06, 2026, 02:03:52 PMThe Crown is only taking 8 teams this year, so we probably still aren't getting in.
And if getting excited for the Crown is where we're at, yikes.
Alright feel like Mike Myers Dr Evil in Austin Powers let's go for the 32 Team NIT then. But even then agree Yikes.
We've been crowning on the court constantly
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 06, 2026, 02:05:54 PMI never, ever thought that we would be hoping for an invitation to The Crown. :o
If we go there and win a game, Marquette fans should sub out the WE ARE! MARQUETTE! chant near the end of the game for WE R! GV!
Like RIP John Sichterman's left over's at the Bars girl wise were not bad. The Crown and NIT are not that bad given were we are at currently this year. And agree RGV has got to go. As David Grubor says in his new Commercial we understand the importance of winning and RGV is not working. Time to focus on X Go Marquette!
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 06, 2026, 02:22:29 PMLike RIP John Sichterman's left over's at the Bars girl wise were not bad. The Crown and NIT are not that bad given were we are at currently this year. And agree RGV has got to go. As David Grubor says in his new Commercial we understand the importance of winning and RGV is not working. Time to focus on X Go Marquette!
Wow....that is painful to read.
That's beyond painful to read. PLEASE keep Gruber out of MU Bball discussions.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 06, 2026, 02:22:29 PMLike RIP John Sichterman's left over's at the Bars girl wise were not bad. The Crown and NIT are not that bad given were we are at currently this year. And agree RGV has got to go. As David Grubor says in his new Commercial we understand the importance of winning and RGV is not working. Time to focus on X Go Marquette!
RGV is really nothing more than an alternate to culture, development, and of course victory (Duh! :o) as if there is a team out there that
wants to be defeated. (Cue the jokes about Marquette's year to date performances). I was fine with it as background music or elevator music, but it somehow was given primacy. The RGV crap in the Spirit Shop isn't the problem, but the idea that RGV should be the
framework for Marquette basketball is very disturbing to me.
WHY should fans be expected to play along with this slogan sh!t and wear RGV gear?
Marquette is a college basketball team, not a Middle School team. Ship that crap free of charge to Marquette Michigan. Their schools will love it!
Maybe it's me having blinders on but I feel like in addition to our myriad of problems and talent issues, this group has not played with the needed mindset through 15 games. I'm not saying they're not trying, but there isn't the tenacity across the board for 40 mins. Both defensively and offensively,
Nigel is attacking the rim with some power, but other than that I see guys trying to avoid contact and refusing to play with force and intelligence. Granted, we have Kelvin cohesion, but I'd like to see guys diving all over the floor as an example. Swarming defensively and exerting some physicality. Maybe take a charge or two or trap dudes in a vice. I'm sorry Scoopers, but the aggressiveness and tenacity just isn't there
Now, I get we don't have great personel when it comes to this style, but we can't be a sieve and allow dunk, after dunk, after dunk, after dunk, etc, etc. Play with fire and with venom!! These guys should be freaking embarrassed for goodness sake. Instead we are seeing a bunch of guys standing around offensively, and Moai guarding on the defensive end. That can't happen.
Furthermore, are we bad? Yes. Are we really bad? Yes. Are we as bad a team as we've seen since forever? No question. But imo we shouldn't be this horrific, meaning historically horrific and an absolute abomination. It's time for us to get it fking together starting tomorrow.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 06, 2026, 02:00:31 PMDisagree but reasonable minds may disgaree Hamilton's minutes have gone down and rightfully so. Bill Neary was better than Hamilton and Bill contributed to winning as has Ben Gold for many years for Marquette and Internationally. Hamilton came in at the end of the 1st half against Seton Hall and Marquette lost the lead. Hamilton sucks the energy out of the team the fans and contributes to losing not winning May be wrong but that is my feeling. Time to Beat X any way we can even with Hamilton and get to The Crown. Vegas is not bad.
GE03 claimed that starting Hamilton put Marquette way behind in every game. I decided to look it up, and the facts said otherwise.
Beyond that, I said that I wouldn't start Hamilton if I were Shaka. And I agree with you that the less he plays the better.
I was the hardest worker for 4 years on my highschool basketball team but I sucked at basketball so I only played garbage time because way back then my coach recognized skill talent and ability.
In football I was pretty talented and made All Conference and I cruised in practice.
You could reward the hardest worker in practice with 1 start and get him off the floor after 2 minutes.
Has Shaka lost his mind this year.
Last spring, my son's HS baseball team completely imploded despite a 25-6 record after the coach preached effort and accountability, then brought up freshmen (none of whom improved the team) instead of giving reps to the guys who had bled and sweated for 3-4 years. There were juniors quitting in the middle of a game (before you bring up character, both started as seniors on a state championship football team), just packing up and walking because the coach was playing freshmen i steady of rewarding effort, dedication, and previous accomplishments.
The last I heard, this year's team will only have one returning upperclassmen.
It goes both ways. If you preach hard work, dedication, and attitude, and fail to reward it, that, too, is seen has hypocrisy or betrayal
Quote from: MU82 on January 06, 2026, 04:09:10 PMGE03 claimed that starting Hamilton put Marquette way behind in every game. I decided to look it up, and the facts said otherwise.
Beyond that, I said that I wouldn't start Hamilton if I were Shaka. And I agree with you that the less he plays the better.
But were they way behind as compared to where they would have been without the odd coaching choice?
Line is Marquette -4.5. Nice to see us favored for a change.
Quote from: K1 Lover on January 06, 2026, 05:31:33 PMLine is Marquette -4.5. Nice to see us favored for a change.
It's an intriguing game in that both teams have some serious issues.
On paper, our starters (well, unless Hamilton starts) are just about equal in statistics / efficiency.
We'll see. On the flip side, if MU doesn't win this one, they likely won't be favored in another game until Mar 1, and could go 3 months winless.
Quote from: Mu8891 on January 04, 2026, 07:07:08 PMMuggs - this is a serious question...
Why do you think he will pivot / change?
I don't think he will change a thing unless 2 or 3 more guys leave. He's too dug in. I don't think for a minute that he will tell Tre, Sean or Hamilton to go play in the Horizon League.
That is not what he is saying in the CT papers after UCONN game.
Yes beat X. I just watched a DePaul beat Georgetown. DePaul is 10-6, 2-3 in BE. Watched the after show about big east and ther put the standings up and even knowing it, when I saw Marquette at the bottom..... I just gulped in disbelief.
Hopefully Marquette finds their groove starting Wednesday. Let's Go Marquette!
Quote from: tower912 on January 06, 2026, 05:07:42 PMLast spring, my son's HS baseball team completely imploded despite a 25-6 record after the coach preached effort and accountability, then brought up freshmen (none of whom improved the team) instead of giving reps to the guys who had bled and sweated for 3-4 years. There were juniors quitting in the middle of a game (before you bring up character, both started as seniors on a state championship football team), just packing up and walking because the coach was playing freshmen i steady of rewarding effort, dedication, and previous accomplishments.
The last I heard, this year's team will only have one returning upperclassmen.
It goes both ways. If you preach hard work, dedication, and attitude, and fail to reward it, that, too, is seen has hypocrisy or betrayal
random thought...sounds like a good baseball team. Coach really screwed that up. At MU, however, we have a historically bad basketball team. Difference might be, baseball team was winning. Don't change a thing. Marquette is losing big time, so maybe a change is ok.
Nm.
Quote from: Daniel on January 06, 2026, 09:36:01 PMYes beat X. I just watched a DePaul beat Georgetown. DePaul is 10-6, 2-3 in BE. Watched the after show about big east and ther put the standings up and even knowing it, when I saw Marquette at the bottom..... I just gulped in disbelief.
Hopefully Marquette finds their groove starting Wednesday. Let's Go Marquette!
We absolutely have to win this game. A loss would be an MU hoops catastrophe indescribable with words alone.
Quote from: MuggsyB on January 06, 2026, 10:34:51 PMWe absolutely have to win this game. A loss would be an MU hoops catastrophe indescribable with words alone.
No it wouldn't. This season is a pile of shiit inside of a dumpster fire amidst the plague. Losing to Xavier would simply be another day ending in Y for MUBB.
I'm curious, a genuine question for the most ardent defenders of Shaka this season: when March comes, if Shaka says he's rolling with the same group and will add 1 Wrightsell-esque transfer to replace Zaide and say he utilized the portal, would you find that acceptable? That he just needs more time to develop his guys, RGV style, are you ok with that going into next season?
Quote from: We R Final Four on January 06, 2026, 03:00:14 PMWow....that is painful to read.
lol I was a deans list business student at Marquette University but English was my worst grade and only class I got a C in haha. Am not a slave to the grammar police. If you did not get what I was saying I apologize.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 06, 2026, 03:14:45 PMRGV is really nothing more than an alternate to culture, development, and of course victory (Duh! :o) as if there is a team out there that wants to be defeated. (Cue the jokes about Marquette's year to date performances). I was fine with it as background music or elevator music, but it somehow was given primacy. The RGV crap in the Spirit Shop isn't the problem, but the idea that RGV should be the framework for Marquette basketball is very disturbing to me. WHY should fans be expected to play along with this slogan sh!t and wear RGV gear?
Marquette is a college basketball team, not a Middle School team. Ship that crap free of charge to Marquette Michigan. Their schools will love it!
Agree yes this
Quote from: Jay Bee on January 06, 2026, 05:15:39 PMBut were they way behind as compared to where they would have been without the odd coaching choice?
We'll never know.
We agree it's an odd choice.
Quote from: Daniel on January 06, 2026, 09:36:01 PMYes beat X. I just watched a DePaul beat Georgetown. DePaul is 10-6, 2-3 in BE. Watched the after show about big east and ther put the standings up and even knowing it, when I saw Marquette at the bottom..... I just gulped in disbelief.
Hopefully Marquette finds their groove starting Wednesday. Let's Go Marquette!
This is the Game Georgetown shot 1 / 23 from the floor in the 2nd Half. All the announcers and post game show hosts could not recall a team shooting this poorly in a half ever. Beat X Go Marquette!