We've seen this a few times. No poise down the stretch and on both ends of the floor. They will figure it out next season, but it's still difficult to stomach.
Nigel just gets too frenetic. Sometimes just need to bring up the floor and get into the offense. Chase...one good make, not much else. True leader
It hurt a little. And... I'm over it. Lots of good things. (Lights in the darkness) Doing that well with NJ doing that poorly.
Let myself get excited, makes it more difficult. Didn't think we would win going in, but the boys worked. We had it.
This team should be better than our record.
We keep seeing it.
And we keep thinking it's OK?
Quote from: 21Jumpstreet on February 10, 2026, 08:49:01 PMLet myself get excited, makes it more difficult. Didn't think we would win going in, but the boys worked. We had it.
Yes, really can't believe in this team at all, they will always let you down. It sucks but at least they are getting better and the young guys have been our best players
I'm glad Tre contributed those two big buckets to get us going. Gets a lot of heat but played his role today.
Parhammies gave out down the stretch otherwise we probably pull it out
Quote from: mileskishnish72 on February 10, 2026, 08:49:31 PMWe keep seeing it.
And we keep thinking it's OK?
Nobody thinks it's okay. People realize it's not changing this season. There's a difference.
We're seeing what happens with upper classmen who have never been "the guy" and aren't able to step into that role ass seniors. Hopefully these are growing pains for the underclassmen so they can win games down the stretch in future years.
Experiences like these will be invaluable for Nigel, Adrien and Royce going forward.
Quote from: tower912 on February 10, 2026, 08:48:05 PMIt hurt a little. And... I'm over it. Lots of good things. (Lights in the darkness) Doing that well with NJ doing that poorly.
Needs to understand when he just has to be a point guard and not trying to drive when 3 have been collapsing on you. They don't teach last TO he had Parham open and didn't pass it.
Barely hurts at this point. I've been resigned to watching the underclassmen develop and their big 3 of the future looks promising. Replacing Gold and Ross will not be very difficult at this point
It's maddening and yet encouraging, if you are willing to admit that this season has effectively been over for months.
This season will be beneficial for the guys who will lead this team for the next 2-3 seasons.
Quote from: Newsdreams on February 10, 2026, 08:54:18 PMNeeds to understand when he just has to be a point guard and not trying to drive when 3 have been collapsing on you. They don't teach last TO he had Parham open and didn't pass it.
Villanova did some very Villanova and very Willard things defensively. Villanova things were good help, always reaching in when a dribbler was near, jumping passing lanes.
The Willard stuff was physicality and cheap shots.
A potent combination in this game.
Lessons to be learned.
I hope Royce is a fast healer.
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 08:49:14 PMThis team should be better than our record.
The team is trending better than the aggregate record. We've got a lot of angsty fans, but if you look at the team's play the last 6 weeks it is trending toward being more of a team playing like a 45ish ranked team.
Unlike last season where we were getting worse as the season wore on, this team is heading the right direction.
Quote from: tower912 on February 10, 2026, 08:59:14 PMVillanova did some very Villanova and very Willard things defensively. Villanova things were good help, always reaching in when a dribbler was near, jumping passing lanes.
The Willard stuff was physicality and cheap shots.
A potent combination in this game.
Lessons to be learned.
I hope Royce is a fast healer.
Yes but he had faced them before, needs to understand when is not there for him. Yeah hopefully Parham is just cramps.
I've been on the Parham bandwagon all season (particularly watching him be the only one who seemed to give a damn at Purdue), and I will continue to insist he is part of the foundation for this team. Put him in a Trey Kaufmann-Renn role as the #3 option behind James and an impact transfer, and we're winning 20 games next year.
Nova shot 18-31 from the line and still won. Left 13 free points out there. The game was close on the scoreboard, but if Nova hits throws, the outcome is a no doubter. But, the freshmen and Parham are keepers. We'll get a road win, beat DeP at home, upset Dracula at home, and win a BET game.
Oh C'mon. That was a very entertaining game. What will hurt is if Shaka does not get any transfers that can contribute in the off season.
Quote from: Viper on February 10, 2026, 09:05:04 PMNova shot 18-31 from the line and still won. Left 13 free points out there. The game was close on the scoreboard, but if Nova hits throws, the outcome is a no doubter. But, the freshmen and Parham are keepers. We'll get a road win, beat DeP at home, upset Dracula at home, and win a BET game.
And MU hit 90% and lost, so??
I'm sorry Scoopers, you have to finish. And when you beat yourself, it hurts. There are no moral wins.
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 08:45:48 PMWe've seen this a few times. No poise down the stretch and on both ends of the floor. They will figure it out next season, but it's still difficult to stomach.
If you let a game like that bother you that much, it's on you. Did you honestly think they were ever likely to win that game after how they have played in close games down the stretch all season?
I'm more upset about Illinois choking away their game to the Badgers.
Quote from: wisblue on February 10, 2026, 09:10:48 PMIf you let a game like that bother you that much, it's on you. Did you honestly think they were ever likely to win that game after how they have played in close games down the stretch all season?
I'm more upset about Illinois choking away their game to the Badgers.
Illinois can't make a FT. Also their 2nd best player is out.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on February 10, 2026, 09:04:57 PMI've been on the Parham bandwagon all season (particularly watching him be the only one who seemed to give a damn at Purdue), and I will continue to insist he is part of the foundation for this team. Put him in a Trey Kaufmann-Renn role as the #3 option behind James and an impact transfer, and we're winning 20 games next year.
Hard to talk about next year when you have no idea who will be on the team.
In the past you might have said "the future is bright". Now all you can say is "the future is unknown".
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on February 10, 2026, 09:04:57 PMI've been on the Parham bandwagon all season (particularly watching him be the only one who seemed to give a damn at Purdue), and I will continue to insist he is part of the foundation for this team. Put him in a Trey Kaufmann-Renn role as the #3 option behind James and an impact transfer, and we're winning 20 games next year.
Wow. You're really a Nostradamus. Everyone expected Parham to be one of our best players this year and knew his early season struggles weren't indicative of the player he is/would be.
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 09:13:22 PMIllinois can't make a FT. Also their 2nd best player is out.
Even with a player out Illinois is a top 10 team with a double digit lead in the last seven minutes playing at home. That's a game that has to be won.
Bad teams like Marquette find a way to lose.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on February 10, 2026, 09:02:51 PMThe team is trending better than the aggregate record. We've got a lot of angsty fans, but if you look at the team's play the last 6 weeks it is trending toward being more of a team playing like a 45ish ranked team.
LOL.
We're 4-8 over the last six weeks, with wins over KenPom #62, #73, #78 and #95 ... all at home. That does not add up to a top 45 team.
But I think we'd have lost this game by double digits in December, so I guess that's progress.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 10, 2026, 09:23:24 PMLOL.
We're 4-8 over the last six weeks, with wins over KenPom #62, #73, #78 and #95.
Yes.....but that's an improvement from what we saw earlier in the year.
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 09:13:22 PMIllinois can't make a FT. Also their 2nd best player is out.
Fts 😂
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 08:45:48 PMWe've seen this a few times. No poise down the stretch and on both ends of the floor. They will figure it out next season, but it's still difficult to stomach.
Muggs look at my post in the Shaka cost us the game thread.
We've seen it more than a few, but this team is better than it's been.
Gave us something to be proud of for a long time tonight, so there's that
Quote from: Pakuni on February 10, 2026, 09:23:24 PMLOL.
We're 4-8 over the last six weeks, with wins over KenPom #62, #73, #78 and #95 ... all at home. That does not add up to a top 45 team.
But I think we'd have lost this game by double digits in December, so I guess that's progress.
A little worse (52) over a little less than the last 6 weeks (since the calendar year 2026 started, which I found out is what matters and not actual sports seasons because it made the narrative that last year sucked fit so we had more to complain about here).
Quote from: Pakuni on February 10, 2026, 09:23:24 PMLOL.
We're 4-8 over the last six weeks, with wins over KenPom #62, #73, #78 and #95 ... all at home. That does not add up to a top 45 team.
But I think we'd have lost this game by double digits in December, so I guess that's progress.
You're right. Shaka has lost the team. They've mailed it in. Fire Shaka. Bring TJO home. Miss an NCAA 1 out of every 5 years at MU and that is grounds for hot seat/potential firing.
Assuming MU does not fire Shaka this offseason, do you think MU will be a better team next season? If they are better but miss the NCAA, what are you doing as AD at MU? Retain Shaka or move on?
Quote from: NinjaWes on February 10, 2026, 08:47:13 PMNigel just gets too frenetic. Sometimes just need to bring up the floor and get into the offense. Chase...one good make, not much else. True leader
Agreed, he seemed too pumped to be playing against Lewis. Went at it at Sean speed instead of Nigel speed.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on February 10, 2026, 10:09:42 PMYou're right. Shaka has lost the team. They've mailed it in. Fire Shaka. Bring TJO home. Miss an NCAA 1 out of every 5 years at MU and that is grounds for hot seat/potential firing.
Assuming MU does not fire Shaka this offseason, do you think MU will be a better team next season? If they are better but miss the NCAA, what are you doing as AD at MU? Retain Shaka or move on?
This is sad, even for you.
Firing Shaka is a dumbass argument and shouldn't be given any credence.
Not this season, not next season.
I usually like to look at both sides of things but we really need to move on from this idiocy, please
Quote from: DoctorV on February 10, 2026, 10:16:16 PMFiring Shaka is a dumbass argument and shouldn't be given any credence.
Not this season, not next season.
I usually like to look at both sides of things but we really need to move on from this idiocy, please
Shaka shouldn't be fired. He should be forced to add good players to this team.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 10, 2026, 10:13:55 PMThis is sad, even for you.
This is on par for you. You've suggested Shaka will/should be on the hot seat going in to next year. But you can't answer basic questions about what you'd do as AD at the end of next season with a very straightforward scenario laid out for you.
But, you've been an awesome complainer all season long!
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 10, 2026, 10:18:52 PMShaka shouldn't be fired. He should be forced to add good players to this team.
I just agreed with you on a comment.
Now you've embarrassed me.
Don't open yourself up to more ridicule, makes me feel bad for you
Quote from: DoctorV on February 10, 2026, 10:16:16 PMFiring Shaka is a dumbass argument and shouldn't be given any credence.
Not this season, not next season.
I usually like to look at both sides of things but we really need to move on from this idiocy, please
100% agree. Yet we have dense Scoopers like Pakuni, Sultan, Brewcity, Onepost, who think Shaka should be fired if he has another bad season next year.
Improvement is there. Team still young.
That kinda sucked at the end though. Let myself let a LITTLE bit of light in for the road win hopes.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on February 10, 2026, 10:26:37 PM100% agree. Yet we have dense Scoopers like Pakuni, Sultan, Brewcity, Onepost, who think Shaka should be fired if he has another bad season next year.
A lot more than that if next year is anything like this year!
Everybody needs to calm down. I never thought I would be the soother of scoop. We have a nice trio to build around next season. Now, we must add pieces for sure. I've mentioned how imperative a badass big is, a sniper, and perhaps a back-up pg. I think we have to get two impact portal guys for sure. All this said? Losing this game still sucked and all of these games are important.
Are we somewhat gassed at the end of games because we don't have a bench?
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 10:58:45 PMWe have a nice trio to build around next season.
2 sophs, and 1 junior (classes next year). That's your soothing thought?
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 11:00:16 PMAre we somewhat gassed at the end of games because we don't have a bench?
I mean we really don't. 3 redshirts, Sean hurt, Zaide gone. 3 players unplayable... Leaves shaka with 7.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on February 10, 2026, 11:01:40 PM2 sophs, and 1 junior (classes next year). That's your soothing thought?
Yes. What's the problem?
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 11:05:24 PMYes. What's the problem?
(https://media1.tenor.com/m/GElyvue_13cAAAAC/april-fools-joke.gif)
Quote from: rocky_warrior on February 10, 2026, 11:07:56 PM(https://media1.tenor.com/m/GElyvue_13cAAAAC/april-fools-joke.gif)
Stevens has a chance to be a heck of a player.
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 11:10:58 PMStevens has a chance to be a heck of a player.
I agree, I'm slightly concerned with him modeling his game off of Stevie, because I think he could be much more valuable on offense. Not that Stevie was an offensive slouch in the end. But I'd rather Stevens play good defense, and great offense.
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 11:10:58 PMStevens has a chance to be a heck of a player.
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 11:10:58 PMStevens has a chance to be a heck of a player.
He will be. A backcourt of Nigel and AS will be good to elite for 3 more seasons given retention imo.
Rocky's point still stands though, it's slim pickens. Even if the above pan out and Royce is the stud we expect.
Nigel is a high impact guy, both within the game results and the way he plays. Dude is constantly barreling into people. Royce seems like hes a bit injury risk, Adrien seems solid.
Need more, more star power and more depth.
I had the discussion with my wife about paying Nigel like a sr next season and she says "nope, can't do that. Shaka has a system and if he does it to one he will have to account to all"
So I says "well you also can't have a guy like Nigel leave"
She said "why? Sure he's good but why can't Shaka get better? He's no Tyler"
Threw me for a loop. Nigel is great and he deserves both accolades and money from Marquette but it's a down year. Imagine bringing in a stud pg in the portal, or recruiting another stud pg like Shaka is trying to.
One stud is good, two or several is elite. We can't lose sight of that if the goal is elite
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 08:49:14 PMThis team should be better than our record.
No we shouldn't. We sucked early. We're solid now. Once we learn to win on the road and consistently close games, we'll be good.
Quote from: DoctorV on February 10, 2026, 11:19:54 PMShe said "why? Sure he's good but why can't Shaka get better? He's no Tyler"
I agree, and disagree. He's way better than Tyler, especially as a frosh.
Quote from: DoctorV on February 10, 2026, 11:19:54 PMHe will be. A backcourt of Nigel and AS will be good to elite for 3 more seasons given retention imo.
Rocky's point still stands though, it's slim pickens. Even if the above pan out and Royce is the stud we expect.
Nigel is a high impact guy, both within the game results and the way he plays. Dude is constantly barreling into people. Royce seems like hes a bit injury risk, Adrien seems solid.
Need more, more star power and more depth.
I had the discussion with my wife about paying Nigel like a sr next season and she says "nope, can't do that. Shaka has a system and if he does it to one he will have to account to all"
So I says "well you also can't have a guy like Nigel leave"
She said "why? Sure he's good but why can't Shaka get better? He's no Tyler"
Threw me for a loop. Nigel is great and he deserves both accolades and money from Marquette but it's a down year. Imagine bringing in a stud pg in the portal, or recruiting another stud pg like Shaka is trying to.
One stud is good, two or several is elite. We can't lose sight of that if the goal is elite
We definitely need more Dr.V! Way more. But I think Shaka will pivot and get some strong pieces. If he doesn't it will be MU hoops malpractice, and my calm disposition will turn to relentless wrath and demanding immediate change. :)
Quote from: rocky_warrior on February 10, 2026, 11:22:54 PMI agree, and disagree. He's way better than Tyler, especially as a frosh.
Yea but you've got to understand she's my wife, and any basketball engagement I get is a net positive.
You can learn things from all opinions
She is right in one sense though- find a way to bring in more while retaining what you've built as your system and let it play out on the court, regardless of position
Quote from: DoctorV on February 10, 2026, 11:34:39 PMShe is right in one sense though- find a way to bring in more while retaining what you've built as your system and let it play out on the court, regardless of position
Now you're putting words in her mouth! Lol
Quote from: rocky_warrior on February 10, 2026, 11:36:19 PMNow you're putting words in her mouth! Lol
Sometimes those darn jokes, they write themselves
Quote from: Elonsmusk on February 10, 2026, 10:23:44 PMThis is on par for you. You've suggested Shaka will/should be on the hot seat going in to next year. But you can't answer basic questions about what you'd do as AD at the end of next season with a very straightforward scenario laid out for you.
But, you've been an awesome complainer all season long!
Why bother? I've answered this many times and you repeatedly lie about it. I have no reason or desire to restate myself for your benefit. Scoop has a search function. Use it. Or don't. Makes no difference to me.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on February 10, 2026, 11:22:54 PMI agree, and disagree. He's way better than Tyler, especially as a frosh.
agree, better than a freshman Tyler. Not better than a junior Tyler, yet. still a poor passer, weak handle in traffic, poor decision making when going to the hole, gets caught with no shot, pass, or escape and forces a pass which is picked off. plays like a freshman sometimes.
Would like to see more out of Owens and Phillips. They need to be way more aggressive offensively. Especially Owens as a sophomore. He had those two good games where he was a revelation and is now back to his passive ways. Had a nice drive into the lane last night and a good shot and missed. Never did it again the rest of the game. Phillips needs to take it hard to the hoop as well after he pump fakes and drives baseline. Use that athleticism fellas!
Quote from: MuggsyB on February 10, 2026, 09:10:32 PMI'm sorry Scoopers, you have to finish. And when you beat yourself, it hurts.
Sounds like a personal problem bordering on TMI.
Quote from: wisblue on February 10, 2026, 09:10:48 PMIf you let a game like that bother you that much, it's on you. Did you honestly think they were ever likely to win that game after how they have played in close games down the stretch all season?
I'm more upset about Illinois choking away their game to the Badgers.
yeah, I turned over to that game. RED has road wins at Michigan and Illinois this season. 😢
Gard goes with upper classmen and guys on their 2nd & 3rd program. He plays the game, so to speak. S16 won't surprise me, unfortunately.
Many here are glossing over the fact Nigel will attract big time suitors this offseason. If we have any chance of keeping him, "win now" mode needs to be activated and we need to overhaul this roster.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 10, 2026, 09:53:12 PMA little worse (52) over a little less than the last 6 weeks (since the calendar year 2026 started, which I found out is what matters and not actual sports seasons because it made the narrative that last year sucked fit so we had more to complain about here).
So what is your opinion on our recent upward trend? Is it silly to think we can judge the season in a more positive light because it's only a portion of the season and not reflective of the whole?
Yes he will. As will Royce. MU has previously paid their stars enough to keep them when other schools have come sniffing. It is only logical that MU will do everything they can to keep them. Part of that will be relationships. Like Kam not wanting to leave his brothers.
But, like the Brewers, if the college basketball equivalent of the Dodgers swoop in with an obscene offer, a merely competitive offer may mot be enough.
Quote from: tower912 on February 11, 2026, 06:46:35 AMYes he will. As will Royce. MU has previously paid their stars enough to keep them when other schools have come sniffing. It is only logical that MU will do everything they can to keep them. Part of that will be relationships. Like Kam not wanting to leave his brothers.
But, like the Brewers, if the college basketball equivalent of the Dodgers swoop in with an obscene offer, a merely competitive offer may mot be enough.
We were able to keep kolek, oso, jones etc. Because of the other returning talent and high expectations for the following season. We cannot say the same now so "rgv" only goes so far when the prospect of another mediocre season without many reinforcements is a possibility.
Perhaps. But I also remember Kam alluding to not being able to leave Stevie and Jop. But what if the relationships between players are still that strong, or the bonds with Shaka that go back to the recruiting process are that solid, and the young men are resilient and understand the growth process?
Quote from: tower912 on February 11, 2026, 06:58:24 AMPerhaps. But I also remember Kam alluding to not being able to leave Stevie and Jop. But what if the relationships between players are still that strong, or the bonds with Shaka that go back to the recruiting process are that solid, and the young men are resilient and understand the growth process?
Winning teams ease the burden of decision making. You can sell rgv 8 days a week but it's not as impactful when you're going through a crummy season or the coach doesn't fully commit to improving the roster your next season.
For the fans.
I know none of this matters to you right now so I am not going to spend much more time on it.
Think about what we have learned about Shaka's recruiting process.
Think about what Shaka has said about having to re-recruit every season, the player as well as his best friend on the team.
Think about the type of character Shaka has made it clear he is looking for. Assume he usually gets it.
Think about it as young men cognizant of their situation, but understanding that young teams struggle sometimes, but believing the talent and building blocks are there if they stick with their friends and brothers.
I accept it as a given that big money is going to sniff around Nigel, Royce, and Adrien. I don't assume that means they are gone.
Quote from: tower912 on February 11, 2026, 07:12:18 AMFor the fans.
I know none of this matters to you right now so I am not going to spend much more time on it.
Think about what we have learned about Shaka's recruiting process.
Think about what Shaka has said about having to re-recruit every season, the player as well as his best friend on the team.
Think about the type of character Shaka has made it clear he is looking for. Assume he usually gets it.
Think about it as young men cognizant of their situation, but understanding that young teams struggle sometimes, but believing the talent and building blocks are there if they stick with their friends and brothers.
I accept it as a given that big money is going to sniff around Nigel, Royce, and Adrien. I don't assume that means they are gone.
Neither do I - but sunshine and rainbows are easier to sell when you're winning games in the tournament.
Quote from: tower912 on February 11, 2026, 07:12:18 AMFor the fans.
I know none of this matters to you right now so I am not going to spend much more time on it.
Think about what we have learned about Shaka's recruiting process.
Think about what Shaka has said about having to re-recruit every season, the player as well as his best friend on the team.
Think about the type of character Shaka has made it clear he is looking for. Assume he usually gets it.
Think about it as young men cognizant of their situation, but understanding that young teams struggle sometimes, but believing the talent and building blocks are there if they stick with their friends and brothers.
I accept it as a given that big money is going to sniff around Nigel, Royce, and Adrien. I don't assume that means they are gone.
I don't think MU can put it any better than Stevie Mitchell did recently in terms of this being a chapter in what could be a great story. They ought to hammer that message with the group that should be retained. If they are bought in, it will resonate. Not to say crazy money won't win, it often does, but hopefully the more meaningful buy-in is there.
We will just have to see what happens in the off-season. Really hard to worry about something that we have no control over...unless one of us can and wants to drop seven figures into NIL.
By the way, is "Be the Difference" still around?
Quote from: tower912 on February 11, 2026, 07:12:18 AMFor the fans.
I know none of this matters to you right now so I am not going to spend much more time on it.
Think about what we have learned about Shaka's recruiting process.
Think about what Shaka has said about having to re-recruit every season, the player as well as his best friend on the team.
Think about the type of character Shaka has made it clear he is looking for. Assume he usually gets it.
Think about it as young men cognizant of their situation, but understanding that young teams struggle sometimes, but believing the talent and building blocks are there if they stick with their friends and brothers.
I accept it as a given that big money is going to sniff around Nigel, Royce, and Adrien. I don't assume that means they are gone.
This. I am apparently in the extreme minority but I love this team as is - the trajectory during this second half is vindicating Shaka's culture/strategy. I was doubting his ability to develop with Hamilton and Clark not seemingly benefitting much from redshirts, but watching the frosh and sophomores grow into legit high D1 players right before our eyes, remembering the epic development of Kolek, Oso and Omax, I can see how this works in the long run. I think our current red shirts are going to be impact players and while this season was mired in adversity next season I predict we will see a Nova like renaissance (that is the Jay Wright Nova strategy of getting his type of guys, redshirting etc., some early pain but then consistent success). If the RGV allows us to keep our young stars this road bump of season will not derail the overall scheme. Next season ideally add a 5th year senior big - but if not: lets roll!
Quote from: panda on February 11, 2026, 06:40:26 AMMany here are glossing over the fact Nigel will attract big time suitors this offseason. If we have any chance of keeping him, "win now" mode needs to be activated and we need to overhaul this roster.
Nigel is not going anywhere - that couldn't be more obvious.
Quote from: panda on February 11, 2026, 06:50:33 AMWe were able to keep kolek, oso, jones etc. Because of the other returning talent and high expectations for the following season. We cannot say the same now so "rgv" only goes so far when the prospect of another mediocre season without many reinforcements is a possibility.
So you're just completely ignoring everything James and Stevens have said recently? They'll both be here going forward.
MU has eight losses of seven points or less.
A few minutes of better basketball in each of those games perhaps changes the outcome.
MU has grown into a competitive team as the season progresses. Good basketball teams that win figured out how to address those few minutes of bad basketball each game. MU isn't there yet but when they get there it is going to be fun.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 11, 2026, 09:00:15 AMSo you're just completely ignoring everything James and Stevens have said recently? They'll both be here going forward.
Money talks, though. If St. John's or UConn (or other P4 programs, I chose them because they're close to his home) come out and offer James $1 million all bets are off.
I'm starting to see this year as a CBB equivalent to Marine Boot. These guys are starting to coalesce into a solid team. Freshmen and Sophomores playing like F&S but building a sense of themselves as a unit as they struggle through the challenges
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 11, 2026, 09:00:15 AMSo you're just completely ignoring everything James and Stevens have said recently? They'll both be here going forward.
I hope they will be but as I said before, it's naive to believe, James especially, is an automatic returnee next year because of rgv. Cmon now
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 11, 2026, 08:58:39 AMNigel is not going anywhere - that couldn't be more obvious.
I hope not !
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on February 11, 2026, 09:10:11 AMMoney talks, though. If St. John's or UConn (or other P4 programs, I chose them because they're close to his home) come out and offer James $1 million all bets are off.
He's not leaving.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 11, 2026, 09:20:01 AMHe's not leaving.
This level of analysis has convinced me he is not transferring. You have laid out the facts and inside intel so plainly that nobody could argue with your position.
Quote from: panda on February 11, 2026, 09:10:45 AMI hope they will be but as I said before, it's naive to believe, James especially, is an automatic returnee next year because of rgv. Cmon now
I shouldn't say there is no chance he leaves because nothing is absolute. I think there's a 99% chance he's back, however.
The money is important, obviously, but as Tower said the types of families and players Shaka recruits makes it much less likely they're going to bolt.
Until we actually lose a contributor, and they leave because of $, I'm going to assume that it's not going to happen because of RGV (pretty much the only benefit of it right now). Oso could have gotten more at Arizona, TKO could have gotten more at StJ/UConn/insert school in NE here, Memphis was rumored to have offered Kam a bag, they all stayed. Could it happen in the future? Sure, but until I hear otherwise, I assume every major contributor will be back.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 11, 2026, 09:30:37 AMI shouldn't say there is no chance he leaves because nothing is absolute. I think there's a 99% chance he's back, however.
The money is important, obviously, but as Tower said the types of families and players Shaka recruits makes it much less likely they're going to bolt.
...so, Hamilton, Clark, Norman, Jones...all back?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 11, 2026, 09:30:37 AMI shouldn't say there is no chance he leaves because nothing is absolute. I think there's a 99% chance he's back, however.
The money is important, obviously, but as Tower said the types of families and players Shaka recruits makes it much less likely they're going to bolt.
This is the first time that philosophy will be put to the test.
I don't mean to repeat myself, but sunshine and rainbows works very well when you're playing/winning tournament games.
Quote from: milwaukee expat on February 11, 2026, 08:36:48 AMThis. I am apparently in the extreme minority but I love this team as is - the trajectory during this second half is vindicating Shaka's culture/strategy.
Come on. This season hasn't vindictated anything. In fact it has pretty much shown that Shaka's strategy was a poor one. Just getting "more competitive" against mediocre BE opponents isn't the goal here. They still haven't won on the road. They haven't beaten a team likely to do to the dance.
Quote from: Viper on February 11, 2026, 09:34:25 AM...so, Hamilton, Clark, Norman, Jones...all back?
No, the above group will not all be back.
Yes, Nigel, Stevens and Royce will be back.
And thats really all that matter right now.
Quote from: JTJ3 on February 11, 2026, 09:49:27 AMNo, the above group will not all be back.
Yes, Nigel, Stevens and Royce will be back.
And thats really all that matter right now.
The more open spots the better. We need reinforcements in a bad way.
This team is so allergic to finishing games they should carry an epipen.
Nigel out of control and Ross on a milk carton.
That said, if somehow "they're due" for winning a close game, please Lord let it be in the Big East Tournament.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on February 11, 2026, 08:58:39 AMNigel is not going anywhere - that couldn't be more obvious.
I 95% agree with you. It is clear he and Shaka have a great relationship and that he loves his teammates. It has also been shown that MU pays their stars. The last 5% is if somebody comes at him with a mammoth offer.
Quote from: tower912 on February 11, 2026, 07:12:18 AMFor the fans.
I know none of this matters to you right now so I am not going to spend much more time on it.
Think about what we have learned about Shaka's recruiting process.
Think about what Shaka has said about having to re-recruit every season, the player as well as his best friend on the team.
Think about the type of character Shaka has made it clear he is looking for. Assume he usually gets it.
Think about it as young men cognizant of their situation, but understanding that young teams struggle sometimes, but believing the talent and building blocks are there if they stick with their friends and brothers.
I accept it as a given that big money is going to sniff around Nigel, Royce, and Adrien. I don't assume that means they are gone.
This has to be the assumption or the program is lost. I'm with you. I think all of them stay as long as a couple reinforcements arrive to appease the desire (of parents and players) to win BIG next year.
Quote from: Badgerhater on February 11, 2026, 09:08:18 AMMU has eight losses of seven points or less.
A few minutes of better basketball in each of those games perhaps changes the outcome.
MU has grown into a competitive team as the season progresses. Good basketball teams that win figured out how to address those few minutes of bad basketball each game. MU isn't there yet but when they get there it is going to be fun.
We are still low major status. Performance this year has been unacceptable and is fully on Mr. Shaka
I don't care about whether our 9 win players transfer out.
I care about whether the leadership in place makes sense for next season.
Shaka is now 14 and 24 in his last 38. And we look lost in late game situations, game after game. The staff is visually bloated. Way to many people involved. And we got a brand new internal hire AD.
Somethings rotten/ or we are just young and unlucky (which our coach opted to be).
Quote from: The Sultan on February 11, 2026, 09:44:14 AMCome on. This season hasn't vindictated anything. In fact it has pretty much shown that Shaka's strategy was a poor one. Just getting "more competitive" against mediocre BE opponents isn't the goal here. They still haven't won on the road. They haven't beaten a team likely to do to the dance.
I disagree that it has "shown that Shaka's strategy was a poor one." I think it has shown that his strategy can work, but not if you completely whiff on back-to-back recruiting classes.
Quote from: TSmith34, Inc. on February 11, 2026, 10:19:42 AMI disagree that it has "shown that Shaka's strategy was a poor one." I think it has shown that his strategy can work, but not if you completely whiff on back-to-back recruiting classes.
Avoiding the portal torpedoed last season and ruined this season before it even started.
Quote from: The Sultan on February 11, 2026, 09:44:14 AMCome on. This season hasn't vindictated anything. In fact it has pretty much shown that Shaka's strategy was a poor one. Just getting "more competitive" against mediocre BE opponents isn't the goal here. They still haven't won on the road. They haven't beaten a team likely to do to the dance.
Agreed 100%. I think Shaka himself would, and may publicly, concede this season exposed some flaws in his strategy. There has been zero vindication on the "previous" strategy. If MU had recovered from an awful OOC schedule to be .500 in a weak BE, you might be able to argue that there was a minimal amount of vindication. Alas, we are in last place.
The backbone of the RGV plan is your juniors and seniors are ready to step up. 0% success with that.
Shaka and MU have learned that you need to leverage the transfer portal to backfill your HS recruiting misses in the P5 these days. I have faith Shaka will grow and succeed at MU.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on February 11, 2026, 09:10:11 AMMoney talks, though. If St. John's or UConn (or other P4 programs, I chose them because they're close to his home) come out and offer James $1 million all bets are off.
You don't think Marquette would be able to offer them $1 million?
Quote from: TSmith34, Inc. on February 11, 2026, 10:19:42 AMI disagree that it has "shown that Shaka's strategy was a poor one." I think it has shown that his strategy can work, but not if you completely whiff on back-to-back recruiting classes.
I'd guess there a multiple P5 programs who have wiffed on back to back classes, but they replaced the misses with proven D1 players and thus are playing for the NCAA tournament.
I would agree that making HS recruits a primary pipeline for the program is sound. The failure is not using the portal to replace the misses.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 11, 2026, 10:26:26 AMYou don't think Marquette would be able to offer them $1 million?
The question is whether they will under RGV.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 11, 2026, 10:26:26 AMYou don't think Marquette would be able to offer them $1 million?
I think it is funny how some here believe MU pays players so much that they will never transfer, and some believe MU has no resources to attract transfers. :-\
Quote from: TSmith34, Inc. on February 11, 2026, 10:19:42 AMI disagree that it has "shown that Shaka's strategy was a poor one." I think it has shown that his strategy can work, but not if you completely whiff on back-to-back recruiting classes.
Unless you're recruiting alongside programs like Duke, there are always going to be recruiting whiffs. That's especially true when you're largely recruiting from a pool of players ranked in the 75 to 150 range. The portal allows programs to correct those whiffs. Shaka's strategy has been to not make those corrections. That's a poor strategy when all your competitors are trying to make corrections.
If you can guarantee there won't be whiffs, or they'll be very rare, then Shaka's strategy can work. But I don't think he can make that guarantee.
Quote from: panda on February 11, 2026, 06:40:26 AMMany here are glossing over the fact Nigel will attract big time suitors this offseason. If we have any chance of keeping him, "win now" mode needs to be activated and we need to overhaul this roster.
I think we will add talent in the offseason. I also think that as long as Shaka is here, we will pay enough to Nigel and his relationship with Shaka will keep Nigel here as well. I'd never say I'd be shocked in today's day and age with instant transfers and money being thrown around, but if you listen to Nigel talk about Shaka, I have a hard time seeing him leaving if Shaka is around.
Quote from: panda on February 11, 2026, 06:41:03 AMSo what is your opinion on our recent upward trend? Is it silly to think we can judge the season in a more positive light because it's only a portion of the season and not reflective of the whole?
Hmm, would I rather be a 7 seed who finished tied for 4th in the Big East or a team that finishes something like 11-22 and whose NCAA Tournament hopes were over as of about November 28? That's a really tough question for me to answer.
This season will never be looked at in a "positive light" for me. Can I take some positives away from the season? Of course. I love the way Stevens, NJ, and Parham have played for much of this season. The team is playing much better in the back half of the season. But hell no this season is not a positive.
Even if Shaka adds the top 3 portal players in the country and we enter 1/1/2027 with an undefeated record, I'm not going to be saying, "What a great year last year was!" Or consider the 2025-2026 season a "half good season." I had never in my life as a sports fan heard calendar years referenced rather than sports season until this year, just so we could whine about a season we finished with a 7 seed and tied for fourth in the Big East.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 11, 2026, 11:01:15 AMHmm, would I rather be a 7 seed who finished tied for 4th in the Big East or a team that finishes something like 11-22 and whose NCAA Tournament hopes were over as of about November 28? That's a really tough question for me to answer.
This season will never be looked at in a "positive light" for me. Can I take some positives away from the season? Of course. I love the way Stevens, NJ, and Parham have played for much of this season. The team is playing much better in the back half of the season. But hell no this season is not a positive.
Even if Shaka adds the top 3 portal players in the country and we enter 1/1/2027 with an undefeated record, I'm not going to be saying, "What a great year last year was!" Or consider the 2025-2026 season a "half good season." I had never in my life as a sports fan heard calendar years referenced rather than sports season until this year, just so we could whine about a season we finished with a 7 seed and tied for fourth in the Big East.
Why was Marquette a 7 seed last year? What happened between being ranked 5th in the country and the end of the season?
Quote from: wadesworld on February 11, 2026, 11:01:15 AMThis season will never be looked at in a "positive light" for me. Can I take some positives away from the season? Of course. I love the way Stevens, NJ, and Parham have played for much of this season. The team is playing much better in the back half of the season. But hell no this season is not a positive.
Nice. We agree on some things. (ALL that I copied)
Quote from: panda on February 11, 2026, 09:39:09 AMThis is the first time that philosophy will be put to the test.
I don't mean to repeat myself, but sunshine and rainbows works very well when you're playing/winning tournament games.
Big time contributors from highly competitive teams leave their teams all the time.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 11, 2026, 11:01:15 AMI had never in my life as a sports fan heard calendar years referenced rather than sports season until this year, just so we could whine about a season we finished with a 7 seed and tied for fourth in the Big East.
I've always preferred the rolling 12 month record. 9-23 when taking out the buy games from Feb25-Feb26.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on February 11, 2026, 10:31:49 AMThe question is whether they will under RGV.
They have been, so that's not the question.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on February 11, 2026, 10:37:24 AMI think it is funny how some here believe MU pays players so much that they will never transfer, and some believe MU has no resources to attract transfers. :-\
They paid Kam, TKo, etc enough to fend off other schools. They refused to pay transfers more than players who had been at MU for years. Pretty obvious.
Quote from: tower912 on February 11, 2026, 11:25:04 AMThey paid Kam, TKo, etc enough to fend off other schools. They refused to pay transfers more than players who had been at MU for years. Pretty obvious.
But they were seniors when they got paid, and multiple people here have said NIL is structured for the upperclassmen to get more under the sacred RGV. IF that is true, is MU willing to change that policy for two rising sophomores?
Considering the paucity of upper classmen coming back... I bet that 2 rising sophomores do quite well. Shaka will pay attention to the "V" in RGV. As an aside, we met Nigel's mom after the home Villanova game (Marquette Mom's night), she was effusive in her praise for Shaka, Marquette, and this resilient team. I truly hope that she never reads scoop. Mainly because it will destroy whatever positive perception that she has of a Marquette education. Double digit IQs abound...
Uncharted territory. Haven't had this situation under the current rules. I assume they will, but lime.the rest of us, I don't know.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on February 11, 2026, 11:46:49 AMBut they were seniors when they got paid, and multiple people here have said NIL is structured for the upperclassmen to get more under the sacred RGV. IF that is true, is MU willing to change that policy for two rising sophomores?
Kam got paid well before he was a senior.
Quote from: tower912 on February 11, 2026, 11:25:04 AMThey paid Kam, TKo, etc enough to fend off other schools. They refused to pay transfers more than players who had been at MU for years. Pretty obvious.
IMHO, MU has the resources to be competitive with 80% of the P5.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 11, 2026, 10:43:03 AMUnless you're recruiting alongside programs like Duke, there are always going to be recruiting whiffs. That's especially true when you're largely recruiting from a pool of players ranked in the 75 to 150 range. The portal allows programs to correct those whiffs. Shaka's strategy has been to not make those corrections. That's a poor strategy when all your competitors are trying to make corrections.
If you can guarantee there won't be whiffs, or they'll be very rare, then Shaka's strategy can work. But I don't think he can make that guarantee.
Oh, I get what you are saying, and yes of course there will be whiffs. My point (hardly the first to say it, I admit) is that he whiffed
completely on back-to-back classes. If his strategy is going to work--and I do like him zigging when everyone else is zagging--you simply can't have that.
And yes, as literally everyone else has said, he should have gone to the portal instead of insisting that Caedin was ready to be a BE player, and one critical to their success no less.
Quote from: panda on February 11, 2026, 11:03:52 AMWhy was Marquette a 7 seed last year? What happened between being ranked 5th in the country and the end of the season?
Injuries, lack of depth was a problem and really popped up as an issue once we had four of our top six players playing hobbled. And we were never REALLY a top 5 team in the country.
I don't factor last year into a downward "trend" at all. This year is the first concerning data point, and it's getting less concerning as the year goes on.
We definitely need to add some talent, but I'd bet a lot of money we're back in the tournament next year.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on February 11, 2026, 03:10:34 AMWould like to see more out of Owens and Phillips. They need to be way more aggressive offensively. Especially Owens as a sophomore. He had those two good games where he was a revelation and is now back to his passive ways. Had a nice drive into the lane last night and a good shot and missed. Never did it again the rest of the game. Phillips needs to take it hard to the hoop as well after he pump fakes and drives baseline. Use that athleticism fellas!
Phillips seems to have hurt his thumb taped up, maybe affecting his game.
Quote from: TSmith34, Inc. on February 11, 2026, 10:19:42 AMI disagree that it has "shown that Shaka's strategy was a poor one." I think it has shown that his strategy can work, but not if you completely whiff on back-to-back recruiting classes.
A good strategy would be to use all means possible to fix those recruiting whiffs. However he just rolled with it...and the results are what they are.
Quote from: BM1090 on February 11, 2026, 12:26:38 PMInjuries, lack of depth was a problem and really popped up as an issue once we had four of our top six players playing hobbled. And we were never REALLY a top 5 team in the country.
I don't factor last year into a downward "trend" at all. This year is the first concerning data point, and it's getting less concerning as the year goes on.
We definitely need to add some talent, but I'd bet a lot of money we're back in the tournament next year.
Of course last year is part of the downward trend. It became clear that the team had a serious lack of depth. And, while I don't give last year's team as much of an injury pass as others do, that's the point of having quality depth.
So no, this year shouldn't be viewed as the first concerning data point. AND while there are bright spots for the future, any movement toward "less concerning" is marginal at best. I am not ready to say they'll be back in the tournament until I see what the final product will be come summer time.
Quote from: The Sultan on February 11, 2026, 01:03:30 PMA good strategy would be to use all means possible to fix those recruiting whiffs. However he just rolled with it...and the results are what they are.
Yup. Recruiting whiffs compounded by insisting that they weren't.
Quote from: Newsdreams on February 11, 2026, 12:22:04 PMAre you so dense??
I'll ask again...what are you arguing?
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on February 11, 2026, 10:26:26 AMYou don't think Marquette would be able to offer them $1 million?
can? Sure. Would they? Maybe. I assume a 20 loss season puts some warmth on the coaches seat and doesn't necessarily offer leverage for big $ to players either. James might be that exception.
Quote from: Viper on February 11, 2026, 02:13:16 PMI'll ask again...what are you arguing?
That it's a great example of how free throw shooting isn't all that important to the eventual outcome.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on February 10, 2026, 10:26:37 PM100% agree. Yet we have dense Scoopers like Pakuni, Sultan, Brewcity, Onepost, who think Shaka should be fired if he has another bad season next year.
This team has improved in season. If we go to the portal, there's reason for optimism next season and Shaka can salvage this. But regardless, no one can have two seasons like this at Marquette and keep the job. No one.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on February 10, 2026, 10:26:37 PM100% agree. Yet we have dense Scoopers like Pakuni, Sultan, Brewcity, Onepost, who think Shaka should be fired if he has another bad season next year.
He should be. I'm a huge Shaka defender and would love him to be here a long time. But if he has another season like THIS? He has to be gone.
If we improve to a bubble team and miss the tournament and it's clear we're going to continue to get better? Then of course he should stay.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on February 10, 2026, 10:26:37 PM100% agree. Yet we have dense Scoopers like Pakuni, Sultan, Brewcity, Onepost, who think Shaka should be fired if he has another bad season next year.
Who cares if some Scoopers think he will be gone with another 20+ loss season?
The people who will make that decision are the ones that matter.
IMO, I'd give him less than a 10% chance of surviving back to back 20+ loss seasons. I think the dollars are to big for MU to "let it eventually work itself out".
I'm not saying it would be the right choice to let him go, but consecutive
historically bad seasons will cancel out the good he has done. I don't think I'd have a valid argument against his dismissal.
That said, I'd give it about a 5% chance of happening again, so nothing to worry about.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on February 10, 2026, 10:26:37 PM100% agree. Yet we have dense Scoopers like Pakuni, Sultan, Brewcity, Onepost, who think Shaka should be fired if he has another bad season next year.
Why do you do this? Is this lying intentional or do you seriously not have the ability to understand what I said? I never said I wanted him fired.
I said he likely would be.
Quote from: BM1090 on February 11, 2026, 03:10:30 PMHe should be. I'm a huge Shaka defender and would love him to be here a long time. But if he has another season like THIS? He has to be gone.
If we improve to a bubble team and miss the tournament and it's clear we're going to continue to get better? Then of course he should stay.
Yep.
I have a hard time imagining any school that's serious about basketball retaining a coach after consecutive 20-loss seasons. Believing that coach wouldn't even be on the hot seat, as a certain someone seems to, is wild. Marquette hasn't had a coach survive back-to-back 15-loss seasons, much less 20.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on February 10, 2026, 10:26:37 PM100% agree. Yet we have dense Scoopers like Pakuni, Sultan, Brewcity, Onepost, who think Shaka should be fired if he has another bad season next year.
A coach with 20 losses two seasons in a row should be fired.
What's strange, is all the guys you mentioned were big into NOT firing wojo for waaaaay to long.
Quote from: #UnleashJosh on February 11, 2026, 03:58:44 PMA coach with 20 losses two seasons in a row should be fired.
What's strange, is all the guys you mentioned were big into NOT firing wojo for waaaaay to long.
When would you have fired him? At best you could make the argument that he could have been fired a season earlier, but Marquette was going to make the tournament that season had COVID not been a thing.
But they weren't going to fire him coming off a tournament birth, nor after the NIT run in 2017-18.
nm
The Wojo issue was tough because you could watch and see the process was never going to be enough to get us to consistently good/great. But the actual, on-paper results weren't THAT bad. 2015 was a free year. 2016 we won 20 games. 2017 was better than 2016. 2018 slight step back, but then a huge bump in 2019 and a tournament caliber team in 2020.
He was JUST good enough to not get fired. And then he had a year under .500 and he was gone immediately.
Which again, shows that Shaka should not survive another year of this. He's earned a leash. But not one long enough to withstand two years of under .500 basketball
2015 wasn't a free year. It was a massive red flag.
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on February 12, 2026, 03:52:54 AM2015 wasn't a free year. It was a massive red flag.
His first season. lol. Ok...
Quote from: The Sultan on February 11, 2026, 04:13:58 PMBut they weren't going to fire him coming off a tournament birth
*berth
Quote from: The Sultan on February 11, 2026, 04:13:58 PMWhen would you have fired him? At best you could make the argument that he could have been fired a season earlier, but Marquette was going to make the tournament that season had COVID not been a thing.
But they weren't going to fire him coming off a tournament birth, nor after the NIT run in 2017-18.
Not firing him because he MADE the tournament, and for an NIT run (freakin lol mate) is the absolute peak for loving mediocrity.
Quote from: The Sultan on February 12, 2026, 04:35:31 AMHis first season. lol. Ok...
Forgetting the score and telling his team to foul was probably the most obvious sign that the Wojo had lost the mojo.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 10, 2026, 08:52:07 PMNobody thinks it's okay. People realize it's not changing this season. There's a difference.
We're seeing what happens with upper classmen who have never been "the guy" and aren't able to step into that role ass seniors. Hopefully these are growing pains for the underclassmen so they can win games down the stretch in future years.
This is an interesting concept. When I was young I took it that someone was always in waiting, 3 amigos to lazar to Jimmy to Jae/DJO to Vander but it sounds like you're saying that's more of an exception than the rule? Essentially a rebuild will always happen after a star graduates?
Quote from: Galway Eagle on February 12, 2026, 01:04:49 PMThis is an interesting concept. When I was young I took it that someone was always in waiting, 3 amigos to lazar to Jimmy to Jae/DJO to Vander but it sounds like you're saying that's more of an exception than the rule? Essentially a rebuild will always happen after a star graduates?
I think it can go either way with 50/50 chance.
Dominic James was BE Freshman of the Year. Everyone thought he was going pro after 1st season.
Didn't seem to improve offensively his next 3 years, however, defense may have been another story.
Then look at Jimmy Butler. Everyone thought Joe Fulce was going to be the Junior College star. Jimmy was an off the bench player his first year, but a star by senior year.
Quote from: #UnleashJosh on February 12, 2026, 12:27:37 PMNot firing him because he MADE the tournament, and for an NIT run (freakin lol mate) is the absolute peak for loving mediocrity.
Barring scandal, when was the last time a team fired its coach immediately after a 24-win season?
Quote from: Galway Eagle on February 12, 2026, 01:04:49 PMThis is an interesting concept. When I was young I took it that someone was always in waiting, 3 amigos to lazar to Jimmy to Jae/DJO to Vander but it sounds like you're saying that's more of an exception than the rule? Essentially a rebuild will always happen after a star graduates?
I think that was Shaka's ideal version of RGV. Freshmen and sophomores learn from the juniors and seniors and are ready to take the reins as upper classmen. But Kolek and Oso were "the dudes" for two years, and Kam was right there with them. Then Kam kind of did it on his own, but Stevie was just a natural leader so he was very important last year as well. Ben and Chase were never asked to fill that leadership or alpha role until this year. I didn't think Chase would be Kam good, but I thought he could be an alpha. Never saw it with Ben. And the juniors simply haven't stepped up this year.
So by being thrown into the fire out of necessity this year, hopefully James, Stevens, and Parham grow from the experience and are ready for the moment starting next year. As well as Shaka hopefully admitting his errors in the junior class, seeing how this year's senior class didn't fill those roles, and finds some studs in the portal to help the three young core guys.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 12, 2026, 02:05:13 PMSo by being thrown into the fire out of necessity this year, hopefully James, Stevens, and Parham grow from the experience and are ready for the moment starting next year. As well as Shaka hopefully admitting his errors in the junior class, seeing how this year's senior class didn't fill those roles, and finds some studs in the portal to help the three young core guys.
Agreed!
"
thrown into the fire" is accurate, but nobody should characterize it as bad. Many top programs rely on freshmen to contribute right away. Roster construction is an art, not science, that balances maturing players with young guns ready to play.
Quote from: The Sultan on February 12, 2026, 04:35:31 AMHis first season. lol. Ok...
Okay...zero tourney wins, took until the his fifth year to get a single top 25 vote, 5th year a meltdown, 2 weeks in the top 25 the next year, sub 500 and an 8.5 million dollar buyout.
I disagree with Ners on a lot of stuff, but he's not wrong about Wojo. It was clear from the start. But everyone was so angry at how Buzz left that they threw their weight behind a guy who showed from the start he wasn't capable.
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on February 12, 2026, 02:23:28 PMOkay...zero tourney wins, took until the his fifth year to get a single top 25 vote, 5th year a meltdown, 2 weeks in the top 25 the next year, sub 500 and an 8.5 million dollar buyout.
I disagree with Ners on a lot of stuff, but he's not wrong about Wojo. It was clear from the start. But everyone was so angry at how Buzz left that they threw their weight behind a guy who showed from the start he wasn't capable.
There was zero reason to fire the guy until they did. People who say otherwise are living in fantasy land.
Quote from: #UnleashJosh on February 12, 2026, 12:27:37 PMNot firing him because he MADE the tournament, and for an NIT run (freakin lol mate) is the absolute peak for loving mediocrity.
Who fires coaches who make the tournament?
Quote from: The Sultan on February 12, 2026, 02:31:09 PMThere was zero reason to fire the guy until they did. People who say otherwise are living in fantasy land.
I don't disagree. That was the most frustrating thing about him. He always just did just enough to keep getting paid.
But that first year was a red flag.
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on February 12, 2026, 02:33:01 PMI don't disagree. That was the most frustrating thing about him. He always just did just enough to keep getting paid.
But that first year was a red flag.
Gotcha.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 12, 2026, 02:05:13 PMI think that was Shaka's ideal version of RGV. Freshmen and sophomores learn from the juniors and seniors and are ready to take the reins as upper classmen. But Kolek and Oso were "the dudes" for two years, and Kam was right there with them. Then Kam kind of did it on his own, but Stevie was just a natural leader so he was very important last year as well. Ben and Chase were never asked to fill that leadership or alpha role until this year. I didn't think Chase would be Kam good, but I thought he could be an alpha. Never saw it with Ben. And the juniors simply haven't stepped up this year.
So by being thrown into the fire out of necessity this year, hopefully James, Stevens, and Parham grow from the experience and are ready for the moment starting next year. As well as Shaka hopefully admitting his errors in the junior class, seeing how this year's senior class didn't fill those roles, and finds some studs in the portal to help the three young core guys.
...and that is the big if. It certainly will not happen with just one stud. It will require at least 2 if not 3.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 12, 2026, 02:05:13 PMSo by being thrown into the fire out of necessity this year, hopefully James, Stevens, and Parham grow from the experience and are ready for the moment starting next year.
If by "out of necessity" you mean "long overdue with the delay (especially Royce) caused by insane coaching decisions", sure.
Quote from: Jay Bee on February 12, 2026, 03:12:53 PMIf by "out of necessity" you mean "long overdue with the delay (especially Royce) caused by insane coaching decisions", sure.
I mean by "out of necessity" because none of the juniors or seniors stepped into that role this year.
Royce should've been starting from day 1, but let's not pretend he was playing well early in the year. Through the Wisconsin game he was averaging 7.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 0.7 assist, 0.6 block, 0.6 steal, and 1.1 turnover per game in 21.2 minutes per game, shooting 40.5% from the field, 20.6% from 3, and 57.1% from the line. His minutes would have been higher against Albany (18) if it wasn't a blowout, Little Rock (18) if it wasn't a blowout, had 4 fouls against Maryland but still played 25 minutes, and Valpo (18) if he didn't have 4 fouls.
Quote from: The Sultan on February 12, 2026, 02:32:29 PMWho fires coaches who make the tournament?
Programs who understand that the coach sucked.
Took Marquette far to long.
Quote from: #UnleashJosh on February 12, 2026, 04:28:04 PMPrograms who understand that the coach sucked.
Took Marquette far to long.
*too
And no they don't.
Quote from: The Sultan on February 12, 2026, 04:33:45 PM*too
And no they don't.
Yup, clearly Wojo was absolutely the answer.
Quote from: #UnleashJosh on February 12, 2026, 04:36:59 PMYup, clearly Wojo was absolutely the answer.
He was not. They just weren't going to fire him after making the tournament.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 12, 2026, 03:45:27 PMI mean by "out of necessity" because none of the juniors or seniors stepped into that role this year.
Royce should've been starting from day 1, but let's not pretend he was playing well early in the year. Through the Wisconsin game he was averaging 7.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 0.7 assist, 0.6 block, 0.6 steal, and 1.1 turnover per game in 21.2 minutes per game, shooting 40.5% from the field, 20.6% from 3, and 57.1% from the line. His minutes would have been higher against Albany (18) if it wasn't a blowout, Little Rock (18) if it wasn't a blowout, had 4 fouls against Maryland but still played 25 minutes, and Valpo (18) if he didn't have 4 fouls.
I certainly remember a number of posters suggesting Royce be pushed out while he was struggling.
True ball knowers.
Scoop is legendary for hot takes, even when things are going well. Particularly the game chats. The least surprising thing is that there would be exponentially more when things are not going as well.
Quote from: wadesworld on February 12, 2026, 03:45:27 PMI mean by "out of necessity" because none of the juniors or seniors stepped into that role this year.
Royce should've been starting from day 1, but let's not pretend he was playing well early in the year. Through the Wisconsin game he was averaging 7.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 0.7 assist, 0.6 block, 0.6 steal, and 1.1 turnover per game in 21.2 minutes per game, shooting 40.5% from the field, 20.6% from 3, and 57.1% from the line. His minutes would have been higher against Albany (18) if it wasn't a blowout, Little Rock (18) if it wasn't a blowout, had 4 fouls against Maryland but still played 25 minutes, and Valpo (18) if he didn't have 4 fouls.
I'm 50/50 with wades on his takes, but he's right about this one. Royce was bad to start, which sucked, cause that meant minutes for Caedin, worst player to put on the MU uniform in the last two decades.
I haven't given up on Caedin.
And Mbao.
Quote from: tower912 on February 13, 2026, 05:34:49 AMI haven't given up on Caedin.
And Mbao.
Do you manage an Arbys?
Are we still top 45ish?
Quote from: Elonsmusk on February 10, 2026, 09:02:51 PMThe team is trending better than the aggregate record. We've got a lot of angsty fans, but if you look at the team's play the last 6 weeks it is trending toward being more of a team playing like a 45ish ranked team.
Unlike last season where we were getting worse as the season wore on, this team is heading the right direction.
Quote from: PointWarrior on February 14, 2026, 04:13:15 PMAre we still top 45ish?
Dropped to 55 since 1/14 after the X game.
44th on offense, 113rd on defense.