MUScoop

I know it's difficult for many to do, but I'm gonna talk about the things that went right in our first Big East win and first victory over a P5 team ...

++ Huzzah ... Gold started over Hamilton! Ben still struggled with the outside shot, but he played some good interior D, grabbed 5 offensive rebounds, made a few inside buckets, and fought through injury and numerous falls to play 32 minutes.

++ The whole team had great activity most of the game. Didn't hang heads after X took the late lead.

++ Shaka ran, and the players executed, two perfect inbound plays that led to 5 quick points.

++ Won the rebounding battle 47-34, which had a lot to do with the outcome.

++ Not sure what the stats will say, but it felt like our players finished at the basket better in this game than most others, especially in the first half.

++ Aggressive offensive play by Ross and Parham. I know some were down on Royce early in the season, but he has mostly played pretty well as his PT increased, and I think he has a bright future; 14 points, 8 rebounds and a block in 36 hard minutes tonight. Chase filled up the stat sheet (and yes, I know it included 8 turnovers.)

++ Survived James being in foul trouble and Jones being injured. Didn't get much offensively from Norman, but he battled on the boards and on D. When Nigel did play, he was very aggressive; he finished with 10 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds and 2 steals.

++ Three big 3s from Stevens and two from Owens. They confidently stepped into their shots. Adrien is gonna be a good player for us.

++ We were never gonna go 0-20, folks. Ain't gonna go 1-19 or 2-18 or 3-17, either. There are too many winnable Big East games out there, and we'll win a few of them. Still not good enough, obviously, but any win is a good win!

Ben has been fighting this year. Man his shot sucks but I give him credit for the hustle. He gets banged up a lot but keeps getting up.

Agreed on activity and lineup/rotations. Hamilton's one shining moment making a layup was overshadowed on the next couple of series iirc.

Parham's steady ascent from the start of the year is probably the most promising thing other than Nigel's quick impact. He's been more in control lately and coming up with some timely baskets. I think he will be a very solid player by the time he's a senior and we'll miss him.

Also agree on Adrien. Showing some flashes of shooting and athleticism. A bit of Stevie in him on defense at times. Phillips doesn't seem ready to contribute yet and not to beat a dead horse but the front court will continue to be a glaring issue without a solid newcomer next year (even besides Pearson).

Has anybody seen Nash Walker shoot before the game? He has to be better than what we saw tonight, hard to believe that they do not need help right now.  I understand the redshirt bs, which I hate. Understand Sheek being 17, the other two I do not.

Quote from: BCHoopster on January 07, 2026, 10:54:16 PMHas anybody seen Nash Walker shoot before the game? He has to be better than what we saw tonight, hard to believe that they do not need help right now.  I understand the redshirt bs, which I hate. Understand Sheek being 17, the other two I do not.

Nash just got here. There's no way he understands the offensive or defensive schemes. You'd be wasting a year for 15 games in a season where the team isn't good.

Militic I can understand the frustration, even if I don't agree. There's no way Nash should be playing right now.

(https://comicvine.gamespot.com/a/uploads/original/11119/111191852/5028614-4884577775-ieiWw.gif)

An ugly win is better than an ugly loss.
Royce, DO, AS, and NJjr are the future. 

Quote from: tower912 on January 08, 2026, 07:01:45 AMAn ugly win is better than an ugly loss.
Royce, DO, AS, and NJjr are the future. 

And Clark.  He is literally forcing Shaka to play him.  I don't know how bad he looks in practice but every minute he is out there he is productive.  He and DO and Royce = that is alot of length I would love to see those three on the floor together for a good stretch...

Quote from: milwaukee expat on January 08, 2026, 07:20:02 AMAnd Clark.  He is literally forcing Shaka to play him.  I don't know how bad he looks in practice but every minute he is out there he is productive.  He and DO and Royce = that is alot of length I would love to see those three on the floor together for a good stretch...

I was confused why he didn't play more in the second half. Chase seems to focus on him. Positive sign.

I think we did a lot of things well last night, including defending for a good chunk of the game, rebounding and overall energy.  Our inability to shoot from anywhere (the lane, the foul line, beyond the arc) overcomes (undercomes?) a large number of positive things.

Very happy for the guys that they got a win under their belt.  Hopefully, they'll play a little looser moving forward.

They continue to shoot the right shots.  Need to get better at making the right shots.

Quote from: tower912 on January 08, 2026, 07:01:45 AMAn ugly win is better than an ugly loss.
Royce, DO, AS, and NJjr are the future. 

Yep.  Add three portal players and the RS and True freshman could be good in a hurry. 

The rebounding was a huge positive.

Xavier hit three 3s in about a minute to get right back into the game.  Usually takes us a half or more to hit that many. 

Stating the obvious but it's such a disadvantage.

Hopefully we can add a shooter via the portal and Miletic, Walker, and Phillips can improve enough defensively to provide that threat next season (can't count on that, though).

It was an ugly win against another not-very-good team, but at least it was a win. I have to give Gold a ton of credit. He is getting the hell beat out of him every game, but keeps getting up. His outside shot has gone south, but he is doing a lot of other good things. I was also glad to see Stevens have a really solid game. Was also glad to see Shaka not start Hamilton. I guess he has to play a few minutes here and there, but it is ugly when he gets on the floor. Clark seems to be coming along - do not understand why Shaka does not give him longer runs unless Clark just does not have the stamina.

Quote from: tower912 on January 08, 2026, 08:14:51 AMThey continue to shoot the right shots.  Need to get better at making the right shots.

On the 3 point shots particularly, we miss so badly (way short, a foot to the right or left, clanging off the side of the rim) that it is hard to understand from D-I players.

I get the layups to a degree, because often we are taking 3 footers with defenders between us and the basket, often smaller guys trying to shoot over or around bigger ones.  A lot of our "missed layups" are difficult, defended shots that never had a reasonable chance of going in.  We do miss too many easy ones, too, but not the 14 a game number always reported.

Finally, and not to pile on, but watching Tre Norman shoot foul shots, the surprise wasn't that he only went1-4 last night, but how did he ever make 8-10 using that form before last night?

Quote from: CTWarrior on January 08, 2026, 09:02:47 AMOn the 3 point shots particularly, we miss so badly (way short, a foot to the right or left, clanging off the side of the rim) that it is hard to understand from D-I players.

I get the layups to a degree, because often we are taking 3 footers with defenders between us and the basket, often smaller guys trying to shoot over or around bigger ones.  A lot of our "missed layups" are difficult, defended shots that never had a reasonable chance of going in.  We do miss too many easy ones, too, but not the 14 a game number always reported.

Finally, and not to pile on, but watching Tre Norman shoot foul shots, the surprise wasn't that he only went1-4 last night, but how did he ever make 8-10 using that form before last night?

100% agree with everything you said here. 

I purposely missed watching the UConn.  First time I ever purposely missed watching a game. 

There were more than a few occasions I mentioned how bad can you be when you have been playing basketball your entire life.  Tre with his flat shot as a junior is inexcusable.  Not knowing the rules of the game you play is inexcusable, looking at you Phillips.  This team is so hard to watch.

It's amazing how shot selection goes completely in tank when we are in a tight game and the game clock goes under the 5-minute mark.

Quote from: Big Papi on January 08, 2026, 09:21:55 AM100% agree with everything you said here. 

I purposely missed watching the UConn.  First time I ever purposely missed watching a game. 

There were more than a few occasions I mentioned how bad can you be when you have been playing basketball your entire life.  Tre with his flat shot as a junior is inexcusable.  Not knowing the rules of the game you play is inexcusable, looking at you Phillips.  This team is so hard to watch.

It's amazing how shot selection goes completely in tank when we are in a tight game and the game clock goes under the 5-minute mark.

I don't think it's an abandonment of shot selection standards as much as it is a general tightening up and no one wanting to take the big shot. Which results in horrible shots late in the clock that look like bad shot selection but have to be taken

Quote from: milwaukee expat on January 08, 2026, 07:20:02 AMAnd Clark.  He is literally forcing Shaka to play him.  I don't know how bad he looks in practice but every minute he is out there he is productive.  He and DO and Royce = that is alot of length I would love to see those three on the floor together for a good stretch...

Good call on Clark. Needs to get more minutes at that spot, some playing alongside Gold, some alongside Parham.

I like that Shaka is trying to find spots for Phillips, but Owens seems ahead of him in most facets right now.

Quote from: Shooter McGavin on January 08, 2026, 08:29:58 AMAdd three portal players and the RS and True freshman could be good in a hurry. 

Agree. Even two starter-level transfers, alongside this season's top 3-5 players, Sheek and Egbuonu, and you're talking about a team that will do plenty of winning next season.  Few if any are pushing for Shaka to rebuild the team annually through 5-10 portal players.

Quote from: BCHoopster on January 07, 2026, 10:54:16 PMHas anybody seen Nash Walker shoot before the game? He has to be better than what we saw tonight, hard to believe that they do not need help right now.  I understand the redshirt bs, which I hate. Understand Sheek being 17, the other two I do not.

Good lord.

Quote from: BM1090 on January 08, 2026, 12:21:43 AMNash just got here. There's no way he understands the offensive or defensive schemes.

Yeah, all of our guys getting minutes understand the schemes inside and out!

Quote from: MU82 on January 08, 2026, 09:45:44 AMGood call on Clark. Needs to get more minutes at that spot, some playing alongside Gold, some alongside Parham.

I like that Shaka is trying to find spots for Phillips, but Owens seems ahead of him in most facets right now.

Agree. Even two starter-level transfers, alongside this season's top 3-5 players, Sheek and Egbuonu, and you're talking about a team that will do plenty of winning next season.  Few if any are pushing for Shaka to rebuild the team annually through 5-10 portal players.

On your Phillips comment I mostly agree at this point but Owens looked lost at the beginning of the year,  Owens is definitely earning more time now.

As for Phillips.  I wish when he went into the game they would run a play to go to him immediately to shoot a three.  Even an out of bounds play when they have the chance.  I'd like to see him get more looks from three.

As far as shooting in general for this team our passing has been terrible this year.  Wide open shooters are not getting passes in the shooting pocket.  They are reaching for the ball, barely corralling it and the defense has more time to adjust causing the shots to be rushed and really not that good.  Definitely doesn't help the shooting percentage. 

Quote from: MU82 on January 07, 2026, 10:03:20 PMI know it's difficult for many to do, but I'm gonna talk about the things that went right in our first Big East win and first victory over a P5 team ...

++ Huzzah ... Gold started over Hamilton! Ben still struggled with the outside shot, but he played some good interior D, grabbed 5 offensive rebounds, made a few inside buckets, and fought through injury and numerous falls to play 32 minutes.

++ The whole team had great activity most of the game. Didn't hang heads after X took the late lead.

++ Shaka ran, and the players executed, two perfect inbound plays that led to 5 quick points.

++ Won the rebounding battle 47-34, which had a lot to do with the outcome.

++ Not sure what the stats will say, but it felt like our players finished at the basket better in this game than most others, especially in the first half.

++ Aggressive offensive play by Ross and Parham. I know some were down on Royce early in the season, but he has mostly played pretty well as his PT increased, and I think he has a bright future; 14 points, 8 rebounds and a block in 36 hard minutes tonight. Chase filled up the stat sheet (and yes, I know it included 8 turnovers.)

++ Survived James being in foul trouble and Jones being injured. Didn't get much offensively from Norman, but he battled on the boards and on D. When Nigel did play, he was very aggressive; he finished with 10 points, 6 assists, 4 rebounds and 2 steals.

++ Three big 3s from Stevens and two from Owens. They confidently stepped into their shots. Adrien is gonna be a good player for us.

++ We were never gonna go 0-20, folks. Ain't gonna go 1-19 or 2-18 or 3-17, either. There are too many winnable Big East games out there, and we'll win a few of them. Still not good enough, obviously, but any win is a good win!

(There are too many winnable Big East games out there, and we'll win a few of them.) ...which one's do you anticipate as W's? At seasons start I predicted 9 BE wins, with a possibility (if the ball bounced our way) of 11. I'm down to a prediction of 3 at this point.

Quote from: Jay Bee on January 08, 2026, 10:02:44 AMYeah, all of our guys getting minutes understand the schemes inside and out!

lol, fair

Quote from: BM1090 on January 08, 2026, 12:21:43 AMNash just got here. There's no way he understands the offensive or defensive schemes. You'd be wasting a year for 15 games in a season where the team isn't good.

Militic I can understand the frustration, even if I don't agree. There's no way Nash should be playing right now.

So if DWade showed up on campus and had 19 games to play, he could not pick up the nuances of hoops, come on!

Quote from: BCHoopster on January 08, 2026, 11:11:04 AMSo if DWade showed up on campus and had 19 games to play, he could not pick up the nuances of hoops, come on!

BC.... famously.... yes

Quote from: Shooter McGavin on January 08, 2026, 10:25:00 AMOn your Phillips comment I mostly agree at this point but Owens looked lost at the beginning of the year,  Owens is definitely earning more time now.

As for Phillips.  I wish when he went into the game they would run a play to go to him immediately to shoot a three.  Even an out of bounds play when they have the chance.  I'd like to see him get more looks from three.

As far as shooting in general for this team our passing has been terrible this year.  Wide open shooters are not getting passes in the shooting pocket.  They are reaching for the ball, barely corralling it and the defense has more time to adjust causing the shots to be rushed and really not that good.  Definitely doesn't help the shooting percentage. 

Yeah, you can really see the massive drop-off in both the timing and placement of passes to put guys in a position to score as compared to Kam and TK.  Just a skillset that is not present on the team right now. 

Hopefully Nigel really continues to develop in this area.

Quote from: BCHoopster on January 08, 2026, 11:11:04 AMSo if DWade showed up on campus and had 19 games to play, he could not pick up the nuances of hoops, come on!

Come on, man.

Quote from: Viper on January 08, 2026, 10:42:51 AM(There are too many winnable Big East games out there, and we'll win a few of them.) ...which one's do you anticipate as W's? At seasons start I predicted 9 BE wins, with a possibility (if the ball bounced our way) of 11. I'm down to a prediction of 3 at this point.

I mean, the other games against X, Georgetown and Seton Hall, and both DePaul games for sure. Providence and Butler, haven't seen them enough yet; what I have seen they can look real good one game and real bad the next.

Note that I'm not saying we will win those games, so I guess I don't "anticipate" them as wins. But it's not as if we were boat-raced by GT or SH ... and we already beat X, opening up a big lead in the process ... and DePaul is still DePaul unless they prove otherwise.

Hell, I don't even think Creighton or Nova are all that this season. There are always upsets. Would MU beating either of them at Fiserv be more shocking than SH beating UConn last season?

I like to think I'm pretty realistic, but yes, I'm also an optimist around these parts.

Quote from: MU82 on January 08, 2026, 01:51:02 PMI mean, the other games against X, Georgetown and Seton Hall, and both DePaul games for sure. Providence and Butler, haven't seen them enough yet; what I have seen they can look real good one game and real bad the next.

Note that I'm not saying we will win those games, so I guess I don't "anticipate" them as wins. But it's not as if we were boat-raced by GT or SH ... and we already beat X, opening up a big lead in the process ... and DePaul is still DePaul unless they prove otherwise.

Hell, I don't even think Creighton or Nova are all that this season. There are always upsets. Would MU beating either of them at Fiserv be more shocking than SH beating UConn last season?

I like to think I'm pretty realistic, but yes, I'm also an optimist around these parts.

I like the optimism. Hoping I'm wrong on 3 BE wins, which is a 8 win season in total heading into the BET. Normally we want 20 wins, at least. I'm praying to avoid 20 L's!

Quote from: Shooter McGavin on January 08, 2026, 10:25:00 AMOn your Phillips comment I mostly agree at this point but Owens looked lost at the beginning of the year,  Owens is definitely earning more time now.

As for Phillips.  I wish when he went into the game they would run a play to go to him immediately to shoot a three.  Even an out of bounds play when they have the chance.  I'd like to see him get more looks from three.

As far as shooting in general for this team our passing has been terrible this year.  Wide open shooters are not getting passes in the shooting pocket.  They are reaching for the ball, barely corralling it and the defense has more time to adjust causing the shots to be rushed and really not that good.  Definitely doesn't help the shooting percentage. 

While watching last night, I actually said these exact things: that I wish Shaka would set up a shot or two for Phillips while he has him in the game because that's what Phillips is best at; and that I wish our players threw passes in a way that the person catching them was in position to shoot or make another basketball move. Great minds!

Quote from: MU82 on January 08, 2026, 07:15:00 PMWhile watching last night, I actually said these exact things: that I wish Shaka would set up a shot or two for Phillips while he has him in the game because that's what Phillips is best at; and that I wish our players threw passes in a way that the person catching them was in position to shoot or make another basketball move. Great minds!

In two years, there's a possible world where MP2 and Owens are great.

Quote from: tower912 on January 08, 2026, 07:01:45 AMAn ugly win is better than an ugly loss.
Royce, DO, AS, and NJjr are the future. 

I'm less convinced on DO, but I hope you're right. I'd also like to see Phillips and Clark hang around.

Quote from: BCHoopster on January 08, 2026, 11:11:04 AMSo if DWade showed up on campus and had 19 games to play, he could not pick up the nuances of hoops, come on!

A teenager from the other side of the planet is just like a 13-time NBA all-star.

Quote from: Jay Bee on January 08, 2026, 07:38:34 PMIn two years, there's a possible world where MP2 and Owens are great.

We agree. I'd be disappointed if either leave, especially if we don't bring in a replacement who is obviously better.

Quote from: Pakuni on January 08, 2026, 08:31:20 PMA teenager from the other side of the planet is just like a 13-time NBA all-star.

Just making a point that this team needs somebody who can put the ball in the hoop, 3 for 41 from your seniors is ridiculous.

Quote from: BCHoopster on January 08, 2026, 09:04:12 PMJust making a point that this team needs somebody who can put the ball in the hoop, 3 for 41 from your seniors is ridiculous.

The law of averages say this won't continue but it's definitely killing our chances right now.  I feel like we should be significantly better as a whole.  I'm not saying we're anywhere close to a tournament team, but at Home I feel like we should be able to compete at a much higher level than we've seen thus far. 

Quote from: BCHoopster on January 08, 2026, 09:04:12 PMJust making a point that this team needs somebody who can put the ball in the hoop, 3 for 41 from your seniors is ridiculous.

It does, but a kid with zero college experience who just arrived from another continent is highly unlikely to be that somebody.

Quote from: Pakuni on January 08, 2026, 10:00:07 PMIt does, but a kid with zero college experience who just arrived from another continent is highly unlikely to be that somebody.

What's with the 🇳🇿 bias?   I'm not saying he should suit up but I don't see a correlation between continent and the ability to shoot a basketball. 

Quote from: MuggsyB on January 08, 2026, 10:02:43 PMWhat's with the 🇳🇿 bias?   I'm not saying he should suit up but I don't see a correlation between continent and the ability to shoot a basketball. 

Because leaving home and moving halfway across the world is a massive life adjustment for anyone, much less an 18-year-old kid.
Expecting that kid to make that adjustment in a couple of weeks while also making an impact on the court with a new team, new system and new teammates is a steep - and I would say unrealistic - ask.

Quote from: Pakuni on January 08, 2026, 10:25:04 PMBecause leaving home and moving halfway across the world is a massive life adjustment for anyone, much less an 18-year-old kid.
Expecting that kid to make that adjustment in a couple of weeks while also making an impact on the court with a new team, new system and new teammates is a steep - and I would say unrealistic - ask.

I don't disagree but mainly because I don't see much of an upside based on how bad we are this year.

Quote from: Pakuni on January 08, 2026, 10:25:04 PMBecause leaving home and moving halfway across the world is a massive life adjustment for anyone, much less an 18-year-old kid.
Expecting that kid to make that adjustment in a couple of weeks while also making an impact on the court with a new team, new system and new teammates is a steep - and I would say unrealistic - ask.

Not to mention the academic rigors!

Several positives indeed from this game but it's important to note that Xavier is really bad. 

Parham - not the sharpest knife in the drawer but knows what to do with the ball in his hands and is the "reverse Joplin". (who, by the way, imho, had the same sharpness problem)... Where Joplin needed to just shoot and never dribble or drive when he got the ball, Parham needs to just drive.  Fake the shot, and drive.  He's got lots of nifty moves around the basket and often gets his own rebound.
Ben - starting again - We saw this 5 games before Shaka, but at least it's the right starting 5.
Phillips - absolutely agree a play must be run for him as soon as he enters
BOOB - two lovely plays... followed by two absolute abominations that led to turnovers.  Maybe a little more focus on the "set pieces"?  Those were the first signs of any offensive clarity in the post-Kolek/Oso PnR era.  Need more of it.
Stevens - solid.
James - great game considering the foul situation
Jones - this team is better (unfortunately because he seems like a great kid) when he's not on the court
Clark - one must ask if he can win the tip and provide 2-3 good possessions at the beginning the game.  The extra possession from winning the tip could win a game at some point. 

Quote from: Pakuni on January 08, 2026, 10:25:04 PMBecause leaving home and moving halfway across the world is a massive life adjustment for anyone, much less an 18-year-old kid.
Expecting that kid to make that adjustment in a couple of weeks while also making an impact on the court with a new team, new system and new teammates is a steep - and I would say unrealistic - ask.

Speaking of moving half way around the world is Nash Walker on campus? Is he practicing with the team?

According to Shaka on Inside Marquette Basketball, he is.

Quote from: muwarrior69 on January 09, 2026, 07:13:24 AMSpeaking of moving half way around the world is Nash Walker on campus? Is he practicing with the team?

Yes, there have been videos of him at shoot arounds before games.

Quote from: MU82 on January 09, 2026, 12:27:45 AMNot to mention the academic rigors!

it's not like we're UW-Madison, hey

Quote from: Hards Alumni on January 09, 2026, 08:00:39 AMYes, there have been videos of him at shoot arounds before games.

He really needs to get better asap, or BC Hoopster will not be happy with him. No reason to practice with the team until you are good enough to play in a game. >:(

Quote from: Hards Alumni on January 09, 2026, 08:00:39 AMYes, there have been videos of him at shoot arounds before games.

Let's hope he is as advertised.

Quote from: muwarrior69 on January 09, 2026, 09:39:29 AMLet's hope he is as advertised.

I'm not sure what advertisements you're seeing, but personally, I do not have high hopes.

Shaka said NW has never been on a weight lifting program before.  Shaka said NW had to be cleared by all of the team physicians before he could start practice.  He said Ian, NW, and Sheek have a good relationship and challenge each other every day, as well as playing on the scout team.

Happy for the team win.  Hopefully not the highlight of the year.

It actually is almost impossible what is happening.

Ben and Chase are shooting 24% and 25% from 3 this season. Between the 2 of them they are 3 for 41 from 3 in Big East play. Nearly impossible. Caedin is the worst 5 Marquette has probably ever seen and he continues to get minutes.

The way I see it is Shaka will use the portal, not maybe. The alternative is that he doesn't and Nigel leaves, in which case he will be forced to use the portal anyways.

He's going to use the portal, there's no choice. It will happen. Hopefully the portal adds are enough to convince Nigel to stay.

We would be a great team if only our players would learn to catch a pass with their ankles.

Hey guyz,

per MU game time is 7:30pm!

Amazing how many errors are made.

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 09, 2026, 11:28:46 AMCaedin is the worst 5 Marquette has probably ever seen and he continues to get minutes.

Those Dukiet teams had Roman Muller AND Rod Grosse, both worse than Hamilton believe it or not.

Quote from: TSmith34, Inc. on January 10, 2026, 08:08:41 AMThose Dukiet teams had Roman Muller AND Rod Grosse, both worse than Hamilton believe it or not.

Grosse was better than Hamilton. Not by much, but he had a better feel for the game.

Quote from: WhiteTrash on January 10, 2026, 08:32:34 AMGrosse was better than Hamilton. Not by much, but he had a better feel for the game.

Ha! I quickly read your post and thought that you wrote "Goose". I think Goose would be better than Hamilton.

Quote from: WhiteTrash on January 10, 2026, 08:32:34 AMGrosse was better than Hamilton. Not by much, but he had a better feel for the game.

Rocket Rod Grosse

Quote from: Jay Bee on January 10, 2026, 08:04:10 AMHey guyz,

per MU game time is 7:30pm!

Amazing how many errors are made.

Must have a lot of Marquette alums in the UK.

Quote from: TSmith34, Inc. on January 10, 2026, 08:08:41 AMThose Dukiet teams had Roman Muller AND Rod Grosse, both worse than Hamilton believe it or not.

Those were the "phone Minnesota and have them send a tall guy" days.

Quite encouraged by the recent play of Owens. Folks were giving up on him (and Parham too) way too early. Young players develop at different paces, and it's been fun watching DO play more freely, with more confidence and spirit, lately. He had several huge plays last night.

If he can continue to improve - and there's really no reason he can't - we'll have him, Parham, James and Stevens as a solid core. Plus Egbuonu, Sheek and an improved Phillips. Hopefully add a couple of good players through the portal, and that's a team that can win next season and beyond.

Quote from: MU82 on January 20, 2026, 01:01:40 PMQuite encouraged by the recent play of Owens. Folks were giving up on him (and Parham too) way too early. Young players develop at different paces, and it's been fun watching DO play more freely, with more confidence and spirit, lately. He had several huge plays last night.

If he can continue to improve - and there's really no reason he can't - we'll have him, Parham, James and Stevens as a solid core. Plus Egbuonu, Sheek and an improved Phillips. Hopefully add a couple of good players through the portal, and that's a team that can win next season and beyond.

How much did Shaka pay you to post this?

Quote from: MU82 on January 20, 2026, 01:01:40 PMQuite encouraged by the recent play of Owens. Folks were giving up on him (and Parham too) way too early. Young players develop at different paces, and it's been fun watching DO play more freely, with more confidence and spirit, lately. He had several huge plays last night.

If he can continue to improve - and there's really no reason he can't - we'll have him, Parham, James and Stevens as a solid core. Plus Egbuonu, Sheek and an improved Phillips. Hopefully add a couple of good players through the portal, and that's a team that can win next season and beyond.

I agree it's awesome to see DO doing pretty well. Important to remember at this time last year we were saying the same about Zaide on a team that was actually decent. I'm hesitant about whether this is fools gold or not.

Quote from: MU82 on January 20, 2026, 01:01:40 PMQuite encouraged by the recent play of Owens. Folks were giving up on him (and Parham too) way too early.

Not I.

Still irked at the staff's deployment of resources earlier this season.

DO can be great in the future.

Quote from: WarriorFan on January 10, 2026, 02:40:24 PMThose were the "phone Minnesota and have them send a tall guy" days.

Ah yes. Memories of Tom Copa, the Coon Rapids stud

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 20, 2026, 01:09:20 PMHow much did Shaka pay you to post this?

$69.69

Quote from: MU82 on January 20, 2026, 01:01:40 PMQuite encouraged by the recent play of Owens. Folks were giving up on him (and Parham too) way too early. Young players develop at different paces, and it's been fun watching DO play more freely, with more confidence and spirit, lately. He had several huge plays last night.

If he can continue to improve - and there's really no reason he can't - we'll have him, Parham, James and Stevens as a solid core. Plus Egbuonu, Sheek and an improved Phillips. Hopefully add a couple of good players through the portal, and that's a team that can win next season and beyond.

Totally agree, 82. Damarius is making winning plays on both ends of the court and it's been so great to see. He's playing well so he gets a longer leash, with that longer leash he makes more great plays, and now he's rightfully in the lineup in crunch time. That's awesome news.

Hopefully, the more he plays the more he figures out help defense.

Seriously, it has been fun to watch him get better.  This is what we thought we would be getting a season ago.  Injuries delayed his arrival as a consistent contributor.

Quote from: MU82 on January 20, 2026, 01:01:40 PMQuite encouraged by the recent play of Owens. Folks were giving up on him (and Parham too) way too early. Young players develop at different paces, and it's been fun watching DO play more freely, with more confidence and spirit, lately. He had several huge plays last night.

If he can continue to improve - and there's really no reason he can't - we'll have him, Parham, James and Stevens as a solid core. Plus Egbuonu, Sheek and an improved Phillips. Hopefully add a couple of good players through the portal, and that's a team that can win next season and beyond.

Some people were ridiculed here last month for suggesting DO be given more of an opportunity.

I think that he had to grow into the opportunity.  Continue to recover from his surgery.  I thought for the non-conference part of the season he was the worst defender on the team and cited instances.  At least now he isn't so far out of position that he is picking off teammates.

So, yes, as he has healed and improved enough on defense, he is playing more and making the most of it.  Shaka said he was improving in practice and close to it translating into games.

Quote from: tower912 on January 20, 2026, 02:59:05 PMI think that he had to grow into the opportunity.  Continue to recover from his surgery.  I thought for the non-conference part of the season he was the worst defender on the team and cited instances.  At least now he isn't so far out of position that he is picking off teammates.

So, yes, as he has healed and improved enough on defense, he is playing more and making the most of it.  Shaka said he was improving in practice and close to it translating into games.

His success is the result of playing more under control, smarter and efficiently when he's on the court. That's not because of some magical Christmas healing. It's because he's more comfortable out there and not looking over his shoulder for a quick hook. And that's result of playing time.

And yet, more than three months into the season ...
"We're talking about practice man. We're not even talking about the game... the actual game, when it matters. We're talking about practice."

Are you citing or mocking Iverson?  He is more comfortable out there because he feels better. 

I thought that Chase, Zaide, and DO would split the minutes at the 2/3 relatively equally, with DO picking up a couple of minutes at the 4  Obviously, I was wrong.  But I have always had a positive attitude about DO.  Early in the season, however, I thought he was the worst defender on the team and I wanted him to sit.
 He has gotten better on both ends and I am looking forward to his continued growth.

Quote from: tower912 on January 20, 2026, 03:23:16 PMAre you citing or mocking Iverson?  He is more comfortable out there because he feels better. 

I thought that Chase, Zaide, and DO would split the minutes at the 2/3 relatively equally, with DO picking up a couple of minutes at the 4  Obviously, I was wrong.  But I have always had a positive attitude about DO.  Early in the season, however, I thought he was the worst defender on the team and I wanted him to sit.
 He has gotten better on both ends and I am looking forward to his continued growth.

Definitely citing AI here. Like him, I think it's odd to talk about practice performance - which, of course, none of us actually see - as if it's the equivalent of game performance.

As for DO in particular, no idea how you would know how he's feeling, but let's let Ben Steele weigh in:
He's looked more confident as his playing time has increased, and he's figuring out how to put himself in positions to succeed.

No mention in this story from two days ago - headlined "Is Damarius Owens figuring it out? Marquette sophomore looks confident" - of his improvement being a result of him feeling better.

https://www.jsonline.com/story/sports/college/marquette/2026/01/18/marquette-golden-eagles-sophomore-damarius-owens-breakout-candidate/88200469007

I agree that he is figuring it out.  I think that practice matters.

I think most of the team is beginning to figure things out. Hope they get the defensive portion working and we continue to improve

Quote from: MU82 on January 20, 2026, 01:01:40 PMQuite encouraged by the recent play of Owens. Folks were giving up on him (and Parham too) way too early. Young players develop at different paces, and it's been fun watching DO play more freely, with more confidence and spirit, lately. He had several huge plays last night.

If he can continue to improve - and there's really no reason he can't - we'll have him, Parham, James and Stevens as a solid core. Plus Egbuonu, Sheek and an improved Phillips. Hopefully add a couple of good players through the portal, and that's a team that can win next season and beyond.

Missed the last 2 games because of work dinner meetings and being at the office.

Saw highlights and he looked much better offensively, but curious if the defense looked improved and if he looked more engaged on that end of the floor?

I did see a video on twitter that was one of the best Marquette basketball related things I've seen this season-
It was a video at the end of last nights game from the baseline that showed Royce and DO celebrating together and Royce really getting in Damarius' chest talking him up.
It was great to see, given the history/connectivity of those two prior to Marquette and the adversity DO has seen prior to some recent improvement.

Those two are in year 3 together after a great final season in prep school.
Love to see Royce encouraging his guy and trying to give him extra confidence going forward, that's what relationships and leadership are about.

DO made the defensive play of the night. 

Attacking the rim, DO is a beast. Somewhat unorthodox outside shot, but works for him. I think his potential is awesome. I'm psyched for Friday's game at Butler. 

Quote from: DoctorV on January 20, 2026, 08:40:27 PMMissed the last 2 games because of work dinner meetings and being at the office.

Saw highlights and he looked much better offensively, but curious if the defense looked improved and if he looked more engaged on that end of the floor?

I did see a video on twitter that was one of the best Marquette basketball related things I've seen this season-
It was a video at the end of last nights game from the baseline that showed Royce and DO celebrating together and Royce really getting in Damarius' chest talking him up.
It was great to see, given the history/connectivity of those two prior to Marquette and the adversity DO has seen prior to some recent improvement.

Those two are in year 3 together after a great final season in prep school.
Love to see Royce encouraging his guy and trying to give him extra confidence going forward, that's what relationships and leadership are about.

Still a work in progress defensively - and offensively, for that matter - but as tower said, DO made a huge steal that enabled us to tie it at the end of regulation.

Quote from: Viper on January 20, 2026, 09:09:17 PMAttacking the rim, DO is a beast. Somewhat unorthodox outside shot, but works for him. I think his potential is awesome. I'm psyched for Friday's game at Butler. 

With regard to your first sentence, that is what we had hoped for when he signed on the dotted line and got none of it for a year and a half. Let's hope this is the new DO consistently.  If it is , he will be a real weapon and the future definitely looks brighter.

Yes, he finally looks healthy.

Quote from: MU82 on January 20, 2026, 09:37:54 PMStill a work in progress defensively - and offensively, for that matter - but as tier said, DO made a huge steal that enabled us to tie it at the end of regulation.

tier? tier?

Yeah, DO was the hero who got us into OT. Like Tower said, he made the defensive play of the night. Damn it felt sooo good to win that game.

Maybe it was health related, but DO seemed to have lost all his confidence early in the season. He seemed down and disengaged. Perhaps his role wasn't what he thought it would be, which could also have been injury related.

I can't remember which game it was, but 3 or 4 games ago it seemed light a switch had been flipped in terms of his activity level, enthusiasm, and confidence. It was great to see. Physically he has a lot to offer and his energy seems contagious. I do think there is a long way to go defensively for him and much of this group.

The positive glimmers we have seen overall in more recent games can't cloud the fact that we still give up a lot of points. Hopefully, the guys we have will continue to improve and we can add some experienced and strong defenders to shore things up next year.

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 21, 2026, 07:55:22 AMtier? tier?

Yeah, DO was the hero who got us into OT. Like Tower said, he made the defensive play of the night. Damn it felt sooo good to win that game.

momentum...maybe we have some. Get a road win on Friday. Who knows, 6 or 7 conf wins still doable. Not the goal, but a lot better than it looked a week ago.

Quote from: tower912 on January 21, 2026, 07:10:50 AMYes, he finally looks healthy.

Not sure it's that simple. 

Perhaps not.  But reported injuries and surgical timelines make it logical.

Quote from: Viper on January 20, 2026, 09:09:17 PMAttacking the rim, DO is a beast. Somewhat unorthodox outside shot, but works for him. I think his potential is awesome. I'm psyched for Friday's game at Butler. 

We seem to specialize in unorthodox shots.

These might be damning with faint praise, but from the start of the season through Dec 20, we ranked #148 at Torvik. Since then, we're #97. Against high majors, we've had 6 game scores of 60+. 5 of those came in the last six games. We are playing better. It's still not good enough, but it's better.

DO's ceiling is sky high.  While there will be some ups & downs the rest of the season I hope he continues to get a lot of minutes and that we continue to see progress. 

That could set him up to take a pretty big leap next season. 

I had high hopes for Zaide this season but it turns out that his departure may have created this opportunity for DO.

As for Royce, in conference play:

12.2 PPG
3.8 RPG (Need to see some improvement here from our stretch 4)
50% FG%
33% 3P% (He's at 28.4% overall for the season so has shown some improvement here so far)

Definitely needs to rebound better and improve defensively.  Another big offseason ahead for him but I really like what you could be his junior and senior seasons.

Quote from: brewcity77 on January 21, 2026, 12:02:09 PMThese might be damning with faint praise, but from the start of the season through Dec 20, we ranked #148 at Torvik. Since then, we're #97. Against high majors, we've had 6 game scores of 60+. 5 of those came in the last six games. We are playing better. It's still not good enough, but it's better.

Would enjoy seeing the minutes distribution over the course of these games. I love confirming my priors.

Quote from: Tha Hound on January 21, 2026, 01:36:26 PMWould enjoy seeing the minutes distribution over the course of these games. I love confirming my priors.

Some of what you're thinking: confirmed.

We're not good, but the crazy choices by the staff have made this year worse. Shame!

If they hadn't been so busy trying to make Fetch happen, we probably beat Dayton & Oklahoma, possibly Maryland, and don't need OT to beat Valpo.

Hamilton averaged 8.7 mpg since 12/21, averaged 18.8 mpg up until 12/20.

Quote from: brewcity77 on January 21, 2026, 02:40:42 PMIf they hadn't been so busy trying to make Fetch happen, we probably beat Dayton & Oklahoma, possibly Maryland, and don't need OT to beat Valpo.

Hamilton averaged 8.7 mpg since 12/21, averaged 18.8 mpg up until 12/20.

Just unreal. Huge credit to Parham for sticking with it and overcoming that nonsense early on. One of the early press conferences had Hamilton and Parham on and they asked Hamilton about winning the starting job and Parham's head just kind of dropped. Felt bad for him.

Royce was on the all freshman team last year and was battling for a spot on the USA roster against top competition last summer whereas Hamilton was hooting and hollering while chest bumping managers and doing his meaningless hook shots. Says a lot about Royce's character that he was able to keep a good attitude about that.

Maximizing the on court time of James, Stevens, Parham and Owens should be the priority the rest of the way. That group already looks to have some good chemistry playing together. 

I agree with the current min allocation and am glad it evolved here.

That being said Parham, Owens & the freshman are all playing way better offense than Nov/Dec.  My opinion is that is the bigger driver than less mins for Zaide/Hamilton.  Parham in particular looks like a different player on both ends.

Quote from: CountryRoads on January 21, 2026, 03:05:25 PMJust unreal. Huge credit to Parham for sticking with it and overcoming that nonsense early on. One of the early press conferences had Hamilton and Parham on and they asked Hamilton about winning the starting job and Parham's head just kind of dropped. Felt bad for him.

Royce was on the all freshman team last year and was battling for a spot on the USA roster against top competition last summer whereas Hamilton was hooting and hollering while chest bumping managers and doing his meaningless hook shots. Says a lot about Royce's character that he was able to keep a good attitude about that.

Maximizing the on court time of James, Stevens, Parham and Owens should be the priority the rest of the way. That group already looks to have some good chemistry playing together. 

So what you're saying is Royce was properly motivated to dig deeper and overcome some adversity.  Sounds like some character was built by the coaching staff.  ;)

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 21, 2026, 07:55:22 AMtier? tier?

Yeah, DO was the hero who got us into OT. Like Tower said, he made the defensive play of the night. Damn it felt sooo good to win that game.

Effen autocorrect.

Though tower is on the highest tier!

So many MU tears this year

Quote from: CountryRoads on January 21, 2026, 03:05:25 PMJust unreal. Huge credit to Parham for sticking with it and overcoming that nonsense early on. One of the early press conferences had Hamilton and Parham on and they asked Hamilton about winning the starting job and Parham's head just kind of dropped. Felt bad for him.

Royce was on the all freshman team last year and was battling for a spot on the USA roster against top competition last summer whereas Hamilton was hooting and hollering while chest bumping managers and doing his meaningless hook shots. Says a lot about Royce's character that he was able to keep a good attitude about that.

Maximizing the on court time of James, Stevens, Parham and Owens should be the priority the rest of the way. That group already looks to have some good chemistry playing together. 

Love this

Over the last 13 games, Nigel James is averaging 19 ppg, 5 apg and 3 rpg while shooting .462 from 3.

Quote from: MU82 on January 22, 2026, 06:28:07 PMOver the last 13 games, Nigel James is averaging 19 ppg, 5 apg and 3 rpg while shooting .462 from 3.

Over those 13 games, the only players (count 'em, four guys) with a PRPG! of > 1.0 all started the season on the bench. SMH.

Quote from: Jay Bee on January 22, 2026, 08:51:02 PMOver those 13 games, the only players (count 'em, four guys) with a PRPG! of > 1.0 all started the season on the bench. SMH.

When you don't play CH and SJ.... the team looks tolerable offensively. Who would havethought.

Hope the swagger continues against Butler tonight.

Quote from: Jay Bee on January 22, 2026, 08:51:02 PMOver those 13 games, the only players (count 'em, four guys) with a PRPG! of > 1.0 all started the season on the bench. SMH.

They need to focus on practice?

I really like the growth I am seeing  out of Royce and DO.  Hopefully, they learn from last night that they don't need the spin move in traffic and choose to attack the basket.

Speaking of attacking the basket, the last few games have flipped the script about MU being unable to finish around the basket.

Part of that is improved ball movement and off the ball movement.  Much better job of creating the angles for the drives, slipping into spaces around the basket, and seeing teammates in those spots.   Except at crunch time last night.   Ah, well.

Stretches where it is all freshmen and sophomores on the floor.

I appreciate Ben still diving to the floor and driving from the 3 pt line to the rim for a dunk.  I wish that was his normal and not just a pleasant surprise.

Down to two glaring issues.  3 pt shooting and the defense.   Sadly, those are two immensely large issues.  3pt shooting, they can't not take open looks.   Especially the young guys.   Defense, that is the biggest one without an answer right now.   

Quote from: tower912 on January 24, 2026, 07:51:59 AMDefense, that is the biggest one without an answer right now.   

As this season was about to begin, did we not hear about how a tenacious defense would be our calling card? Drop the word tenacious and this is spot on. Our defense has become our calling card.

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 24, 2026, 09:10:53 AMAs this season was about to begin, did we not hear about how a tenacious defense would be our calling card? Drop the word tenacious and this is spot on. Our defense has become our calling card.

Staying positive in this thread.   See Muggsy's defense thread.

Quote from: tower912 on January 24, 2026, 09:24:23 AMStaying positive in this thread.   See Muggsy's defense thread.

Got it! Reality checks are not welcome in this thread.

We're starting to see Hamilton used a little more as expected in recent games and he's had some decent moments. I think feeling toward him as a player would be somewhat more positive if this is how he'd been used from the start of the season.

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 24, 2026, 09:27:49 AMGot it! Reality checks are not welcome in this thread.

More than enough reality in the games and the rest of Scoop lol.

Although they lost another winnable game last night I have have to say thaey have become fun to watch. I think we are all seeing a team emerging from mere players.  Excluding Ross and Gold as seniors look at the chemistry amoung James,Parham, Stevens and Owens.  I'm excited to see the growth.  That said, a 6 man rotatioon isn't deep enough.  I would still like to see Jones return and hope for development of Philips.  Honorable mention to Hamilton for a high quality 6 minutes.  All hands on deck and this team could beat somebody they aren't supposed to. 

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 24, 2026, 09:27:49 AMGot it! Reality checks are not welcome in this thread.

I mean, the subject of this thread is "Going Positive." But I guess the 374 B!tch About Everything threads aren't enough, so have at it.

Quote from: MU82 on January 24, 2026, 11:59:04 PMI mean, the subject of this thread is "Going Positive." But I guess the 374 B!tch About Everything threads aren't enough, so have at it.

It's fun to pull Tower's and your chains once in a while. You two guys are scoop's Bluebirds of Happiness, the Sunshine Boys. Makes me want to puke.

Have at it? Nah. I'm now looking for the 374 threads you mentioned. Has anyone ever told you that you seem to have a problem with first grade arithmetic?  ;D

Have a good day Mike and be glad you are not still in Charlotte with this storm. Scoopers who hate my posts will likely get a nice break, as we are likely to be without power for at least a day and I will be confined to reading books and playing classical guitar as I shiver.

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 25, 2026, 09:23:43 AMIt's fun to pull Tower's and your chains once in a while. You two guys are scoop's Bluebirds of Happiness, the Sunshine Boys. Makes me want to puke.

That is kind of fun.  Staying as positive as I can to make you want to puke.  My day is made.

Be safe.

Quote from: tower912 on January 25, 2026, 10:53:31 AMThat is kind of fun.  Staying as positive as I can to make you want to puke.  My day is made.

Be safe.

 ;D  ;D  ;D

Positive is watching Nigel James, I remember stating he should start and got totally shot down, guess I was right!

Quote from: BCHoopster on January 25, 2026, 01:06:27 PMPositive is watching Nigel James, I remember stating he should start and got totally shot down, guess I was right!

Shaka needs to hire you as GM. You're all over all of this.

Really liking what we're seeing from Parham the last month. Aggressive, decisive, tough.

James' game speaks for itself - has a chance to be a Marquette all-timer.

Stevens and Owens are really having some good stretches. Lots of reasons for optimism.

There will be several more wins for MU this season, as the Big East is mediocre after UConn. (And even they almost lost twice to the Providence team we beat.)

I mean the probability of a BET sweep is now something greater than zero. There's a pulse.

A game like last night worries me in a sense that Shaka thinks we have enough moving forward.

This team could be good if we add a few older guys to help Nigel next year.

Right now Tre and Sean are slotted as our only Seniors and both could realistically move on. Need to give NJ some help.

I sort of get the attitude about Tre aroound here but I don's get it about Sean.  I don't knoe what the prognosis is for Sean in terms of this seson and his injury status But in the 3 games he has played in conference he averages 8 points a game.  I hope he gets healthy and can help out when James hit the wall as a freshman.  Jones can play, period.  Looking to next season even if Tre stays on there is an opening and it needs to be a post player to balance the youth in that position next year.  MU has a ton of wings for next year, not worried at all.

Quote from: hawk on January 28, 2026, 12:07:23 PMI sort of get the attitude about Tre aroound here but I don's get it about Sean.  I don't knoe what the prognosis is for Sean in terms of this seson and his injury status But in the 3 games he has played in conference he averages 8 points a game.  I hope he gets healthy and can help out when James hit the wall as a freshman.  Jones can play, period.  Looking to next season even if Tre stays on there is an opening and it needs to be a post player to balance the youth in that position next year.  MU has a ton of wings for next year, not worried at all.

Or if we want to look at more meaningful stats, he's got a sub-97 Ortg, shooting 40.6% eFG%, 4.5 fc/40 and a to rate of 20%.

Quote from: Jay Bee on January 28, 2026, 12:16:55 PMOr if we want to look at more meaningful stats, he's got a sub-97 Ortg, shooting 40.6% eFG%, 4.5 fc/40 and a to rate of 20%.

or we can just look at his height

Quote from: hawk on January 28, 2026, 12:07:23 PMI sort of get the attitude about Tre aroound here but I don's get it about Sean.  I don't knoe what the prognosis is for Sean in terms of this seson and his injury status But in the 3 games he has played in conference he averages 8 points a game.  I hope he gets healthy and can help out when James hit the wall as a freshman.  Jones can play, period.  Looking to next season even if Tre stays on there is an opening and it needs to be a post player to balance the youth in that position next year.  MU has a ton of wings for next year, not worried at all.

I just posted this in a separate thread but why would Sean want to come back and play 6-10 MPG behind Nigel for his last season?  Playing them together just isn't feasible. 

Quote from: hawk on January 28, 2026, 12:07:23 PMI sort of get the attitude about Tre aroound here but I don's get it about Sean.  I don't knoe what the prognosis is for Sean in terms of this seson and his injury status But in the 3 games he has played in conference he averages 8 points a game.  I hope he gets healthy and can help out when James hit the wall as a freshman.  Jones can play, period.  Looking to next season even if Tre stays on there is an opening and it needs to be a post player to balance the youth in that position next year.  MU has a ton of wings for next year, not worried at all.

Unfortunately, Sean has had a negative Bayesian Performance Rating, or BPR, every season at Marquette.

BPR is a catch-all metric that measures player impact, with an average D1 player being equal to a 0.0 BPR.

Caedin, Tre, and Sean are the three players on this roster with a negative BPR. This coincides with many Scoopers opinions about who might look to move on.

Damarius Owens has crept barely into the positive, after having a BPR below -1.  A sign of his stronger play of late.

Michael Phillips and Josh Clark have positive BPRs, but on smaller sample sizes than most of the regular rotation players.  Not conclusive enough to form a strong opinion, but some slight optimism for their development.

For the record, Nigel James is in the 3.5 range for BPR, which is comparable to sophomore year Tyler Kolek.  Definitely, a blossoming young star.

Tre is definitely gone. Sean probably too at this point.

Will Shaka add players from the portal if they do? That is the real question.

The comprehensive list of positive contributing players projected to be on next years team who have played 300 possessions so far this year.

Nigel James Jr.
Royce Parham
Adrien Stevens

Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on January 28, 2026, 12:25:09 PMI just posted this in a separate thread but why would Sean want to come back and play 6-10 MPG behind Nigel for his last season?  Playing them together just isn't feasible.

I wonder if Sean would have a chance at getting this year back if he doesn't return this year given that he's only played in 8 games. I know guys have done it but not sure on the specific scenarios. IMO, that is starting to make more sense as the days pass if it is a possibility. Mutually decide to shut him down this year, apply for a waiver, and get him 2 years of NIL at a new school.

Given Nigel's rise, I think MU will be looking to move forward and pair him with other backcourt player(s) who are able to both sub in for him as well play on the floor with him. A combo guard that can put the ball in the basket and play in a 3 guard lineup with Nigel and Stevens would be a great addition. I think Ian could eventually be that, but probably not as soon as next year.

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 28, 2026, 09:14:32 AMA game like last night worries me in a sense that Shaka thinks we have enough moving forward.

This team could be good if we add a few older guys to help Nigel next year.

Right now Tre and Sean are slotted as our only Seniors and both could realistically move on. Need to give NJ some help.

This reminds me of when you were convinced Shaka would start Sean over Nigel after Sean returned from injury.

Chillax and stop worrying so much.

Sean Jones is simply not a BE guard; from a size, skill set, and ceiling stand point. At his height, need to bring speed, elite D, and some difference making skill on O. Have not seen any of this. The injury situation is unfortunate because it has slowed any growth. Perhaps he could give us some back up minutes at PG but we can and should do better.

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 28, 2026, 01:17:12 PMTre is definitely gone. Sean probably too at this point.

Will Shaka add players from the portal if they do? That is the real question.

Not after last night's win, too bad we didn't lose all remaining BE games

Quote from: Newsdreams on January 28, 2026, 01:45:59 PMNot after last night's win, too bad we didn't lose all remaining BE games

But you already said that we lost the second half. So there's that.

Quote from: Newsdreams on January 28, 2026, 01:45:59 PMNot after last night's win, too bad we didn't lose all remaining BE games

Yeah, the only way things can go well the rest of this season is if we lose the rest of our games by 20-30 points each. Games like last night are terrible!

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 28, 2026, 01:56:00 PMBut you already said that we lost the second half. So there's that.

Yeah, glass half to completely empty is it

Quote from: 1SE on January 28, 2026, 05:14:31 AMI mean the probability of a BET sweep is now something greater than zero. There's a pulse.

That is the only positive to salvage this season.

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 28, 2026, 01:17:12 PMTre is definitely gone. Sean probably too at this point.

Will Shaka add players from the portal if they do? That is the real question.

Will find out in the off season.

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 28, 2026, 09:14:32 AMA game like last night worries me in a sense that Shaka thinks we have enough moving forward.

This team could be good if we add a few older guys to help Nigel next year.

Right now Tre and Sean are slotted as our only Seniors and both could realistically move on. Need to give NJ some help.

Holy crap you give me a headache. You're the guy that said Shaka HAD to start Sean because otherwise he's leave. SMDH.

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 28, 2026, 09:14:32 AMA game like last night worries me in a sense that Shaka thinks we have enough moving forward.

I make a joke here that is deemed as inappropriate for the Positivity thread by Scoop's Sunshine Boys, Tower and MU82 and they quickly rap my knuckles, yet you get away with this post. No fair! Where the Hell are those two guys when someone like you posts something that is very clearly negative?

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 28, 2026, 04:46:14 PMI make a joke here that is deemed as inappropriate for the Positivity thread by Scoop's Sunshine Boys, Tower and MU82 and they quickly rap my knuckles, yet you get away with this post. No fair! Where the Hell are those two guys when someone like you posts something that is very clearly negative?

Don't cry Argentina

Quote from: Newsdreams on January 28, 2026, 07:10:48 PMDon't cry Argentina

I'm pissed.

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 28, 2026, 09:14:32 AMA game like last night worries me in a sense that Shaka thinks we have enough moving forward.

This team could be good if we add a few older guys to help Nigel next year.

Right now Tre and Sean are slotted as our only Seniors and both could realistically move on. Need to give NJ some help.

100%...although I do think a healthy Sean can offer productive minutes.

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 28, 2026, 07:43:53 PMI'm pissed.

No dogs??

Quote from: TSmith34, Inc. on January 28, 2026, 04:07:25 PMHoly crap you give me a headache. You're the guy that said Shaka HAD to start Sean because otherwise he's leave. SMDH.

Wrong. I said I thought he would start Sean for that reason. Not that he had to. Completely different.

Shaka is too loyal to his guys to a fault.

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 28, 2026, 09:01:21 PMWrong. I said I thought he would start Sean for that reason. Not that he had to. Completely different.

Shaka is too loyal to his guys to a fault.

LOL

Quote from: Newsdreams on January 28, 2026, 09:31:36 PMLOL

You laugh, but he needs to find a way to cut a few more guys loose to open up spots. You think he does it?

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 28, 2026, 09:33:43 PMYou laugh, but he needs to find a way to cut a few more guys loose to open up spots. You think he does it?

LOL

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 28, 2026, 09:01:21 PMWrong. I said I thought he would start Sean for that reason. Not that he had to. Completely different.

Shaka is too loyal to his guys to a fault.

This doesn't make any sense - the entire team is "his guys".

Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on January 28, 2026, 10:31:45 PMThis doesn't make any sense - the entire team is "his guys".

Sure, but he's too loyal to them all. Even the ones that should obviously move onto somewhere else.

Tre and Caedin have no business being on this roster. Even if they don't play, having them on the roster is holding us back. Will he find a way to move them on?

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 28, 2026, 07:43:53 PMI'm pissed.

I guess Tower is right. Scoop ( not you) is a cesspool. You have to rise above all the stink and remember we all want the program to succeed.

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 28, 2026, 09:01:21 PMWrong. I said I thought he would start Sean for that reason. Not that he had to. Completely different.

Shaka is too loyal to his guys to a fault.

Except that he did NOT start a healthy Sean upon his return. He stuck with Nigel. I guess maybe Nigel is one of his guys, too?

Can you name those on the roster who aren't his guys?

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 28, 2026, 04:46:14 PMI make a joke here that is deemed as inappropriate for the Positivity thread by Scoop's Sunshine Boys, Tower and MU82 and they quickly rap my knuckles, yet you get away with this post. No fair! Where the Hell are those two guys when someone like you posts something that is very clearly negative?

I have arranged with rocky and topper for you to be refunded your January MUScoop dues. Management regrets any inconvenience you might have suffered. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Quote from: MU82 on January 29, 2026, 05:43:37 PMI have arranged with rocky and topper for you to be refunded your January MUScoop dues. Management regrets any inconvenience you might have suffered. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

I really appreciate this, Mike. At least one of the two Scoop Sunshine Boys showed up to address this offense.

Quote from: MU82 on January 29, 2026, 05:41:36 PMExcept that he did NOT start a healthy Sean upon his return. He stuck with Nigel. I guess maybe Nigel is one of his guys, too?

Can you name those on the roster who aren't his guys?

They are all his guys, that's the point. He's loyal to them all to a fault when he should want guys like Hamilton and Norman and maybe even Jones after another injury gone.

Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on January 28, 2026, 11:02:07 PMSure, but he's too loyal to them all. Even the ones that should obviously move onto somewhere else.

Tre and Caedin have no business being on this roster. Even if they don't play, having them on the roster is holding us back. Will he find a way to move them on?

But you were specifically talking about starting Sean over Nigel and the loyalty to his guys playing a part in that decision.  That's why it didn't make any sense.

Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on January 29, 2026, 06:10:22 PMBut you were specifically talking about starting Sean over Nigel and the loyalty to his guys playing a part in that decision.  That's why it didn't make any sense.

Because I thought it would impact Sean's want to be here...and I think Shaka wants Sean to be here.

The right move was to start Nigel, I just didn't think Shaka would actually do it. Just like I don't think he will replace guys like Sean, Caedin, and Tre next year. He hasn't necessarily done what is best for the betterment of the team the last year and a half. Starting Nigel and removing Caedin has been a pleasure start. Hopefully he follows through with more in the offseason.

[/quote]

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on January 29, 2026, 06:04:45 PMI really appreciate this, Mike. At least one of the two Scoop Sunshine Boys showed up to address this offense.

Suck it up, buttercup.

Quote from: tower912 on January 29, 2026, 06:18:20 PMSuck it up, buttercup.

We will be shut down for the entirety of tomorrow for this investigation...or something...

Quote from: rocky_warrior on January 29, 2026, 09:14:14 PMWe will be shut down for the entirety of tomorrow for this investigation...or something...

Way to make a difference!! #Salute

Going Positive or trying to be Positive.
We have Sheek he is awesome. Alex is above average for a college player.
Sheek in for Ben and Alex in for Chase.
We have Nigel and Royce. Adrien looks like an impressive keeper and maybe Damarious and Michael.
We have some other rotational players.
We need 3 Transfers at a minimum 2 Transfers.

On a positive note, Phillips played 3 minutes against Hall, had one set run for him, and made the 3.  Why does he then sit the rest of the game? 

Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 31, 2026, 08:49:21 PMGoing Positive or trying to be Positive.
We have Sheek he is awesome. Alex is above average for a college player.
Sheek in for Ben and Alex in for Chase.
We have Nigel and Royce. Adrien looks like an impressive keeper and maybe Damarious and Michael.
We have some other rotational players.
We need 3 Transfers at a minimum 2 Transfers.

Alex is an above average college player who hasn't played a second of college basketball?

Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 31, 2026, 08:49:21 PMGoing Positive or trying to be Positive.
We have Sheek he is awesome. Alex is above average for a college player.
Sheek in for Ben and Alex in for Chase.
We have Nigel and Royce. Adrien looks like an impressive keeper and maybe Damarious and Michael.
We have some other rotational players.
We need 3 Transfers at a minimum 2 Transfers.

Until we see them prove it on the court, neither Sheek nor Alex are proven. I want proven players in those roles. I'm positive we have the ability to add quality cultural fits with D1 experience.

We can hope all we want for guys that haven't yet played, but we hoped for redshirts like Caedin & Josh, and we hoped for top-100 guys like Tre & Emarion. Hope in one hand, crap in the other, tell me which fills up first.

We need a starting big from the portal, no question about that.

But Im comfortable penciling Sheek in as the backup.  For anyone wondering how good Sheek is, he matched up against Hines, that freshman big from SH who was great yesterday, in the Peach Jam Finals last July and absolutely outplayed him.  He's still thin so I wouldnt want him starting next year, but he can absolutely play at this level.  Far different level of prospect than Hamilton, Clark and the rest of the Shaka project bigs.

Quote from: brewcity77 on February 01, 2026, 08:35:56 AMUntil we see them prove it on the court, neither Sheek nor Alex are proven. I want proven players in those roles. I'm positive we have the ability to add quality cultural fits with D1 experience.

We can hope all we want for guys that haven't yet played, but we hoped for redshirts like Caedin & Josh, and we hoped for top-100 guys like Tre & Emarion. Hope in one hand, crap in the other, tell me which fills up first.

Yeah, the "just wait until you see (fill in the blank)...of RGV has not worked very well. A season like this nuclear meltdown never, ever should have happened.

Quote from: brewcity77 on February 01, 2026, 08:35:56 AMUntil we see them prove it on the court, neither Sheek nor Alex are proven. I want proven players in those roles. I'm positive we have the ability to add quality cultural fits with D1 experience.

We can hope all we want for guys that haven't yet played, but we hoped for redshirts like Caedin & Josh, and we hoped for top-100 guys like Tre & Emarion. Hope in one hand, crap in the other, tell me which fills up first.

You know pessimists are the only true optimists: they may lament but are never disappointed in their expectations. Shaka really stepped in sh!t with Nigel.

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on February 01, 2026, 08:44:52 AMYeah, the "just wait until you see (fill in the blank)...of RGV has not worked very well. A season like this nuclear meltdown never, ever should have happened.

"Wait till next year" induces a relapse my wojitis...

Quote from: JTJ3 on February 01, 2026, 08:40:54 AMWe need a starting big from the portal, no question about that.

Owen Freeman to save the day, just as he has for Creighton?

Crud ... that was snarky, not positive. I give myself 3 demerits!

Quote from: MU82 on February 01, 2026, 07:46:54 PMOwen Freeman to save the day, just as he has for Creighton?

Crud ... that was snarky, not positive. I give myself 3 demerits!

No doubt there will some talent assessment involved.  Have to get the right fit.

Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on January 31, 2026, 08:49:21 PMGoing Positive or trying to be Positive.
We have Sheek he is awesome. Alex is above average for a college player.
Sheek in for Ben and Alex in for Chase.
We have Nigel and Royce. Adrien looks like an impressive keeper and maybe Damarious and Michael.
We have some other rotational players.
We need 3 Transfers at a minimum 2 Transfers.


Hard to play 2 frosh, 2 Sophs and a junior against teams with grad transfers and seniors!  Need 2 grad players to start.

Forget grad transfers.

we need nba players to stay ahead.

If you buy judges off, college basketball might turn into a farce.  LeBron will have 4 years at Ohio St!

Quote from: BCHoopster on February 01, 2026, 10:31:26 PMIf you buy judges off, college basketball might turn into a farce.  LeBron will have 4 years at Ohio St!

...point shaving will be legal.

Quote from: MU82 on February 01, 2026, 07:46:54 PMOwen Freeman to save the day, just as he has for Creighton?

Crud ... that was snarky, not positive. I give myself 3 demerits!

You have been very snarky about Freeman, and maybe he hasn't had the impact YOU think he should have, but BPR still has him higher than any Marquette player this year.

https://evanmiya.com/?player_ratings

Supposedly Freeman got 2M, for sure a bust this year, great for him!

Quote from: BCHoopster on February 03, 2026, 04:57:44 PMSupposedly Freeman got 2M, for sure a bust this year, great for him!

Quote from: rocky_warrior on February 03, 2026, 10:16:41 AMYou have been very snarky about Freeman, and maybe he hasn't had the impact YOU think he should have, but BPR still has him higher than any Marquette player this year.

https://evanmiya.com/?player_ratings

Interesting that Evan rates Chase Ross ahead of Nigel James.  Not the impression you'd get reading the comments on the board.

Quote from: The Equalizer on February 03, 2026, 05:09:01 PMInteresting that Evan rates Chase Ross ahead of Nigel James.  Not the impression you'd get reading the comments on the board.

Or from watching the games.
One came in with all the expectations in the world and the other with no concrete expectations from the fanbase, so that may affect things

Quote from: rocky_warrior on February 03, 2026, 10:16:41 AMYou have been very snarky about Freeman, and maybe he hasn't had the impact YOU think he should have, but BPR still has him higher than any Marquette player this year.

https://evanmiya.com/?player_ratings

If Freeman ranks higher than Nigel James in any ratings system, I guess I have to question the system. Except for "Most NIL Dollars Wasted System," of course.

I'll be positive in saying, "I'm positive that 99% of the coaches in America would take James over Freeman."

Quote from: The Equalizer on February 03, 2026, 05:09:01 PMInteresting that Evan rates Chase Ross ahead of Nigel James.  Not the impression you'd get reading the comments on the board.

Stems from the end of many games this year.  Not a creator.  If he doesn't try to do too much he is pretty damn good.  If he tries to initiate offense with the game on the line it gets ugly in a hurry. 

Spoke to Ben and some of the Players at the Marquette Women's Basketball game  tonight. Tried to encourage them by saying fight hard Saturday and I believe you will win. You will win either way. But you will win. They are really nice but not sure how confident they looked.

Ben not being confident is in his DNA.  Hopefully a couple threes go down early for him.  The rest of the team should be confident.  Butler is not that good.  MUs freshman and sophomores are more than capable especially at home. MU should win. 

Fair.  Shaka has been trying to get Ben to believe in himself as much as the coaching staff does for 4 years.

Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on February 04, 2026, 11:58:48 PMTried to encourage them by saying fight hard Saturday and I believe you will win. You will win either way.

Ugh

Yeah, I'm not taking MarquetteMike's psychological analysis of our player's mindsets as the Bible, no offense.

Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on February 04, 2026, 11:58:48 PMSpoke to Ben and some of the Players at the Marquette Women's Basketball game  tonight. Tried to encourage them by saying fight hard Saturday and I believe you will win. You will win either way. But you will win. They are really nice but not sure how confident they looked.

They will not win if they don't score more points.

Quote from: The Sultan on February 05, 2026, 08:44:56 AMThey will not win if they don't score more points.

Easy does it, big guy. I cannot handle your brilliance this early in the day. Next time, wait until afternoon, OK?

Quote from: The Sultan on February 05, 2026, 08:44:56 AMThey will not win if they don't score more points.

True Al would say if winning was not important we would not keep score.

Agree was not that brilliant of a thing to say. Was just trying to say anything encouraging in passing by.

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on February 05, 2026, 08:50:28 AMEasy does it, big guy. I cannot handle your brilliance this early in the day. Next time, wait until afternoon, OK?

What can I say? I'm a metrics-based guy.

Quote from: The Sultan on February 05, 2026, 09:20:54 AMWhat can I say? I'm a metrics-based guy.

I get that. But as a woodworker, I'm still an English system guy. Sixteenths of an inch do not bother me.

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on February 05, 2026, 09:48:29 AMI get that. But as a woodworker, I'm still an English system guy. Sixteenths of an inch do not bother me.

thats what...


nevermind

Back when Shaka turned down the Marquette job.
1. Our Friend UCONN had left the conference.
2. Some of the Whales left the Marquette program in part due to Ben Howland not being chosen.
Marquette then chose Wojo. Who during Marquette's Wojo Introductory Press Conference President Lovell came up to me put his hand to my ear and said Do not worry about it. It is only basketball.
Shaka Then took the Job in 2021-2022.
1. The Whales were back with Marquette's Basketball Program.
2. Our Friend UCONN is back in the conference.

Today the Whales are with the Marquette Program yet. Our friendship with UCONN is there yet but not as strong due to Saint John's.
Our Friendship with UCONN is there yet and the whales are with us yet. Our Season this year is mostly self inflicted by Shaka.
To Be Positive the Program and Conference is there yet and we may bounce back next year. Feel the Whales are being patient with Shaka. It is up to Shaka if we have success next year.

To continue being positive.
At the Marquette joining the Big East press conference. Bill Cords came up to me put his hand to my ear and said Marquette is going to be Very Good for a Very Long Time. We have been.

Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on February 06, 2026, 11:57:06 AMBack when Shaka turned down the Marquette job.
1. Our Friend UCONN had left the conference.
2. Some of the Whales left the Marquette program in part due to Ben Howland not being chosen.
Marquette then chose Wojo. Who during Marquette's Wojo Introductory Press Conference President Lovell came up to me put his hand to my ear and said Do not worry about it. It is only basketball.
Shaka Then took the Job in 2021-2022.
1. The Whales were back with Marquette's Basketball Program.
2. Our Friend UCONN is back in the conference.

Today the Whales are with the Marquette Program yet. Our friendship with UCONN is there yet but not as strong due to Saint John's.
Our Friendship with UCONN is there yet and the whales are with us yet. Our Season this year is mostly self inflicted by Shaka.
To Be Positive the Program and Conference is there yet and we may bounce back next year. Feel the Whales are being patient with Shaka. It is up to Shaka if we have success next year.

(https://i.imgur.com/b9ZoVoo.jpg)

Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 06, 2026, 03:58:22 PM(https://i.imgur.com/b9ZoVoo.jpg)

Look, I know we have had our differences of opinion, but please, I'm begging you-don't ever post that photo again.

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on February 06, 2026, 04:07:56 PMLook, I know we have had our differences of opinion, but please, I'm begging you-don't ever post that photo again.

(https://media.tenor.com/D87w25KNGfgAAAAM/why.gif)

Quote from: Hards Alumni on February 06, 2026, 04:13:27 PM(https://media.tenor.com/D87w25KNGfgAAAAM/why.gif)

Much better. Thanks!

Quote from: Scoop Snoop on February 06, 2026, 04:07:56 PMLook, I know we have had our differences of opinion, but please, I'm begging you-don't ever post that photo again.

She break your heart back in the day?

Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 06, 2026, 04:19:17 PMShe break your heart back in the day?

Damn you! You figured it put.

Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on February 06, 2026, 12:15:43 PMBill Cords came up to me put his hand to my ear and said Marquette is going to be Very Good for a Very Long Time. We have been.

Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on February 06, 2026, 11:57:06 AMMarquette then chose Wojo. Who during Marquette's Wojo Introductory Press Conference President Lovell came up to me put his hand to my ear and said Do not worry about it. It is only basketball.

Why don't these guys ever talk to you like a normal person would

Quote from: Small Orange Soda on February 06, 2026, 05:37:40 PMWhy don't these guys ever talk to you like a normal person would

You mean like a scooper?

Quote from: Small Orange Soda on February 06, 2026, 05:37:40 PMWhy don't these guys ever talk to you like a normal person would

They spoke with me plenty like a normal person would.

Quote from: The Equalizer on February 03, 2026, 05:09:01 PMInteresting that Evan rates Chase Ross ahead of Nigel James.  Not the impression you'd get reading the comments on the board.

Assessing the full season vs conference play will show two different results.

Chase was very good early in the season, but he's trending down in conference play.  He's dropped from a top 10 BE player to the 30s.

Meanwhile, Nigel has been much better in conference play and his BPR is ascending.  He's climbed more than 20 spots.