MU is playing like a bubble team. But we simply can't expect a bubble team to keep up with the offensive juggernaut that is DePaul!
Yeah, I've been watching Marquette hoops since November 1978 - literally seen hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of games since then - and that seriously was the worst half of MU basketball I've seen.
Our heroes teased us a couple times in the second half but stopped making shots.
I know FTs don't matter, so I won't even mention those.
Quote from: MU82 on March 01, 2026, 05:24:43 PMYeah, I've been watching Marquette hoops since November 1978 - literally seen hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of games since then - and that seriously was the worst half of MU basketball I've seen.
Our heroes teased us a couple times in the second half but stopped making shots.
I know FTs don't matter, so I won't even mention those.
You know, I mock, and I've been kinda negative.
But I know everyone still paying attention now are fantastic fanatics. And that is legitimately a compliment.
We're on the bubble of playing like a bubble team.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 01, 2026, 05:28:12 PMWe're on the bubble of playing like a bubble team.
We were ... before that abortion.
Quote from: MU82 on March 01, 2026, 05:24:43 PMYeah, I've been watching Marquette hoops since November 1978 - literally seen hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of games since then - and that seriously was the worst half game of MU basketball I've seen.
FIFY
Only thing we can do at this point is laugh.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 01, 2026, 05:28:12 PMWe're on the bubble of playing like a bubble team.
Add two more layers of bubbles, and I agree.
Quote from: WarriorFan on March 01, 2026, 05:38:47 PMFIFY
It wasn't the worst full MU game I've seen, so save your words for yourself. Thanks.
Quote from: MU82 on March 01, 2026, 05:42:18 PMIt wasn't the worst full MU game I've seen, so save your words for yourself. Thanks.
IMO, no game will ever be worse than the Western Michigan NIT game in 2005. The regular season finale against SLU that season was right behind it
And today was shades of DePaul 35 Wardle 17 at halftime in 2000.
There are absolutely zero excuses for this one. The first 20 mins was arguably the worst half of basketball in the history of this program.
Quote from: MU82 on March 01, 2026, 05:24:43 PMthat seriously was the worst half of MU basketball
I'm not saying you are not correct, but for me I think it is being down 44-22 hosting Vanderbilt in '11.
Can leave out the word arguably
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 01, 2026, 05:48:05 PMThere are absolutely zero excuses for this one. The first 20 mins was arguably the worst half of basketball in the history of this program.
Quote from: 18thandWells on March 01, 2026, 05:51:35 PMI'm not saying you are not correct, but for me I think it is being down 44-22 hosting Vanderbilt in '11.
Sure, that sucked, but ...
14 points ... in 20 minutes ... at home ... vs DePaul.
I'll stick with that.
I was told in no uncertain terms that this team no longer sucked.
If memory serves, the score was 11-11 with like 13 mins to go in the 1H. To be outscored 21-3, in those minutes, on our home floor, vs DEPAUL, cannot be overstated. If there is a worse stretch of hooping in the history of our program, I'm all eyes or ears.
My forever worst MU game was way back in December 1982 at Minnesota. Minnesota won 100-66 while making Randy Breuer look like Shaq that night (I think he had over 40 points) and I almost broke my parent's TV.
Quote from: #UnleashJosh on March 01, 2026, 06:01:48 PMI was told in no uncertain terms that this team no longer sucked.
I'm sticking to my Creighton and Butler outlier story.
But, our young guys do appear to have improved, even if they didn't have great days today. The problem is...next year they can't come out like Parham did to start this year.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 06:09:13 PMI'm sticking to my Creighton and Butler outlier story.
But, our young guys do appear to have improved, even if they didn't have great days today. The problem is...next year they can't come out like Parham did to start this year.
And we obviously need big-time additions.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 01, 2026, 06:11:11 PMAnd we obviously need big-time additions.
Well yeah. I'm still not convinced Shaka will run anybody off.
The juniors and seniors on this team should be ordered to leave now.
I believe we are now in last place in BEast. Thanks to Shaka for making us a low major/D3 team.
I'm too lazy to look it up but didn't we only score 38 points (or something close to that) total against Syracuse in the elite 8. Considering the stage, that was one of the worst games I can remember.
Today is almost expected with this team
Only a week and a half left....
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 06:12:36 PMWell yeah. I'm still not convinced Shaka will run anybody off.
Is it impossible to show people the door because of NIL? We all know a number of our guys have no business being on our roster moving forward. Can't we just write them a check?
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 01, 2026, 06:05:20 PMIf memory serves, the score was 11-11 with like 13 mins to go in the 1H. To be outscored 21-3, in those minutes, on our home floor, vs DEPAUL, cannot be overstated. If there is a worse stretch of hooping in the history of our program, I'm all eyes or ears.
...next season they should televise our practice scrimmages so we can see what a really good team we actually have.
Quote from: Superfan on March 01, 2026, 06:13:38 PMThe juniors and seniors on this team should be ordered to leave now.
I think that would actually break Shaka's heart.
https://vimeo.com/1131460360
Quote from: swoopem on March 01, 2026, 06:15:18 PMI'm too lazy to look it up but didn't we only score 38 points (or something close to that) total against Syracuse in the elite 8. Considering the stage, that was one of the worst games I can remember.
Today is almost expected with this team
Only a week and a half left....
As far as our tournament disasters, and there's been many, I don't put them at this level of futility. Mainly because we faced good competition.
I believe we are now in last place in BEast. Thanks to Shaka for making us a low major/D3 team.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 01, 2026, 06:21:08 PMI believe we are now in last place in BEast. Thanks to Shaka for making us a low major/D3 team.
...on the bright side Marquette has not decided to drop d1 basketball, yet.
This team goes as Nigel goes. If he plays well, we look halfway decent. If he's inconsistent, we look like we did today.
The idea this roster only needs two portal additions to be competitive next year is laughable. The only way we change course next year is to get rid of the players who put us in this mess.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 01, 2026, 06:21:08 PMI believe we are now in last place in BEast. Thanks to Shaka for making us a low major/D3 team.
We read it 7 minutes ago willie.
The RGV patch is back, and he makes sure to display it!
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 06:12:36 PMWell yeah. I'm still not convinced Shaka will run anybody off.
Well he won't be around for too long if he doesn't.
I guess I don't understand the mechanics behind the shared revenue/NIL world we live in today. These guys are no longer "innocent college kids" but professional athletes with some probably making more money than most fans in the stands paying to watch them. They can all become free agents at the end of the year as evidenced by the +/- 2,000 D1 players that have entered the transfer portal in each of the recent years. Given that, why is it so difficult to cut the non-contributors at the end of the year??? If it's a one-way street in favor of the players that's grossly unfair to the colleges that pay them.
Quote from: Superfan on March 01, 2026, 06:50:17 PMI guess I don't understand the mechanics behind the shared revenue/NIL world we live in today. These guys are no longer "innocent college kids" but professional athletes with some probably making more money than most fans in the stands paying to watch them. They can all become free agents at the end of the year as evidenced by the +/- 2,000 D1 players that have entered the transfer portal in each of the recent years. Given that, why is it so difficult to cut the non-contributors at the end of the year??? If it's a one-way street in favor of the players that's grossly unfair to the colleges that pay them.
I know several will tell you Shaka has changed his tune, and maybe he has. But did you watch the 60 second vimeo video I linked?
Quote from: Tums Festival on March 01, 2026, 06:07:08 PMMy forever worst MU game was way back in December 1982 at Minnesota. Minnesota won 100-66 while making Randy Breuer look like Shaq that night (I think he had over 40 points) and I almost broke my parent's TV.
This was partially responsible for me winding up at MU tbh
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 06:53:30 PMI know several will tell you Shaka has changed his tune, and maybe he has. But did you watch the 60 second vimeo video I linked?
Yes I did but Shaka has no choice. If he doesn't cut some and add via the portal he won't survive at MU. I think we have a forgiving fan base but no one will tolerate a repeat of this year.
Guess I am not a fanatic of fanatics.
Beautiful spring like day to not be outside to enjoy it.
Just remembered MU played today.
TY for the recap.
Quote from: Superfan on March 01, 2026, 07:00:08 PMShaka has no choice
He has many choices. We don't yet know what those will be.
You think the key alumni givers are happy to dole out money to most of these below average players? Doubt it. Times will change drastically or say good bye to the Coach. By the way, Shaka's offensive strategy, watching NJ dribble around is pathetic, the other 3 olayers just stand around
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 06:40:04 PMThe RGV patch is back, and he makes sure to display it!
Does the Spirit Shop sell anything that doesn't have the RGV patch or logo?
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 01, 2026, 07:02:45 PMDoes the Spirit Shop sell anything that doesn't have the RGV patch or logo?
They did 10 days ago
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pq3kDQfuVA
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 01, 2026, 06:30:01 PM...on the bright side Marquette has not decided to drop d1 basketball, yet.
Could have fooled me
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 06:53:30 PMI know several will tell you Shaka has changed his tune, and maybe he has. But did you watch the 60 second vimeo video I linked?
The video from 4 months ago, that was filmed before this disaster of a season and before Shaka committed publically to changing his roster-building approach?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 01, 2026, 07:17:50 PMThe video from 4 months ago, that was filmed before this disaster of a season and before Shaka committed publically to changing his roster-building approach?
Care to explain the extreme "RGV" showcase in his lates postgame. Dude loves his guys, won't tell anyone to leave. Is excited to fill Zaide's spot.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 06:53:30 PMI know several will tell you Shaka has changed his tune, and maybe he has. But did you watch the 60 second vimeo video I linked?
We have three guys to build around next year, and maybe DO. But if Shaka does not pivot at all, and we are completely irrelevant next year, there's a 0.0% chance he will be on the MU bench in '27-28. He deserves the chance to right the ship, but it's worth noting how bad our conference is this year. That means two things: 1) it's not just a bad season, it's a historically bad season × 10, and 2) Improving from the Depths of Hell doesn't mean diddly squat if that means an NIT or worse next year.
Quote from: MuggsyB on March 01, 2026, 07:24:54 PMdiddly squat if that means an NIT or worse next year.
Any tournament next year would be a significant improvement. I also expect an improved BE next season.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 07:19:15 PMCare to explain the extreme "RGV" showcase in his lates postgame. Dude loves his guys, won't tell anyone to leave. Is excited to fill Zaide's spot.
You're seriously analyzing wardrobe choices now?
RGV and using the portal are not mutually exclusive, either.
Also, when did he say he won't tell anyone to leave? Has he said that since the news about the portal? If he has, I sure missed it.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 01, 2026, 07:34:49 PMwhen did he say he won't tell anyone to leave
I'm saying he won't tell anyone to leave. The wardrobe choices are confirming what I'm saying. But, believe what you want.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 07:37:02 PMI'm saying he won't tell anyone to leave. The wardrobe choices are confirming what I'm saying. But, believe what you want.
Why did Itejere, Ellis and Amadou leave?
If you want to be skeptical, that's fine.
I just have a very hard time believing the program would make a very intentional decision to share the change in approach knowing it would be broadcast live during a game.
Also, at minimum, I can't imagine Sean coming back to ride the bench.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 07:37:02 PMI'm saying he won't tell anyone to leave. The wardrobe choices are confirming what I'm saying. But, believe what you want.
Be prepared to be pleasantly surprised. :)
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 01, 2026, 07:51:14 PMBe prepared to be pleasantly surprised. :)
That is a dream of mine in relation to this!
I'm w / Rocky. I don't believe he will tell anyone to leave. He won't ...
That will leave them w / two spots
( Zaide, and Sean graduating ).
And that's not enough
Quote from: Superfan on March 01, 2026, 07:00:08 PMYes I did but Shaka has no choice. If he doesn't cut some and add via the portal he won't survive at MU. I think we have a forgiving fan base but no one will tolerate a repeat of this year.
What he needs to add is a Sports Therapist. Something is mentally affecting the whole team.
Quote from: WellsstreetWanderer on March 01, 2026, 08:09:40 PMWhat he needs to add is a Sports Therapist. Something is mentally affecting the whole team.
Isn't that guy named Russ a therapist of sorts? I don't know his last name but I remember Shaka saying he works on the mental side of things with the team.
Quote from: MUbiz on March 01, 2026, 08:38:00 PMIsn't that guy named Russ a therapist of sorts? I don't know his last name but I remember Shaka saying he works on the mental side of things with the team.
Shaka thinks he's that guy
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 01, 2026, 07:51:14 PMBe prepared to be pleasantly surprised. :)
Seriously. There are multiple departures happening that are pretty obvious.
Maybe I am too simplistic in my thinking - if most all the players are on one year NIL deals why not just reduce the offer to a Tre or Caedin to nothing or just enough to pay their own tuition if they stay and push them down the bench? In essence take the spot of a walk on or two allowing the team to honor the commitment to the kid they recruited but then just not play them like they do the walk ons. In other words, if you've got to make roster space for portal transfers in, why not push off the walk ons. Couldn't have happened prior to NIL but couldn't the team just pay two or three guys enough that they could pay their own tuition bill?
Serious question: Can we really expect any portal additions next year to be *that* much better than Ross and Gold? If we found out we were adding a 6'4 slasher who averaged 14.5ppg and a 6'11 big who averaged 8 and 6 and could step out and hit the occasional three pointer, we'd probably be ecstatic. I'm not saying it's impossible, but without dropping a bag, I'm not sure how much of an upgrade we can expect from those two.
Quote from: JTJ3 on March 01, 2026, 08:43:39 PMSeriously. There are multiple departures happening that are pretty obvious.
lol
I'll bet you a years MUScoop subscription Sean, Tre, Caedin, Josh and Damarius will be back for next season.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 08:56:37 PMlol
I'll bet you a years MUScoop subscription Sean, Tre, Caedin, Josh and Damarius will be back for next season.
If that happens I will not be renewing my season tickets.
Quote from: Superfan on March 01, 2026, 09:11:09 PMIf that happens I will not be renewing my season tickets.
Fortunately, the MUScoop renewal fees are quite reasonable.
You down wit RGV? Yeah, you know meeee!!
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 01, 2026, 09:13:20 PMYou down wit RGV? Yeah, you know meeee!!
Clinching that sleeve was certainly a choice!
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 08:56:37 PMlol
I'll bet you a years MUScoop subscription Sean, Tre, Caedin, Josh and Damarius will be back for next season.
I'll double down on that and and say that at least 2 will be gone whether by their choice and/or with a nudge.
Quote from: Nukem2 on March 01, 2026, 09:19:36 PMI'll double down on that and and say that at least 2 will be gone whether by their choice and/or with a nudge.
You'll get 2 free years if correct!
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 08:56:37 PMlol
I'll bet you a years MUScoop subscription Sean, Tre, Caedin, Josh and Damarius will be back for next season.
Put me down for 2 departures, minimum, from that group
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 08:56:37 PMlol
I'll bet you a years MUScoop subscription Sean, Tre, Caedin, Josh and Damarius will be back for next season.
...you mean there will be a paywall coming for Scoop? Say it ain't so, Rocky.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 07:37:02 PMI'm saying he won't tell anyone to leave. The wardrobe choices are confirming what I'm saying. But, believe what you want.
So, is your contention that no one will leave because Shaka won't tell them to? Because if that happens, it could get super ugly.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 07:04:11 PMThey did 10 days ago
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pq3kDQfuVA
I went back and watched the SJU video again. He never once leaned that way, or had the same mannerisms toward that sleeve.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 01, 2026, 09:22:46 PM...you mean there will be a paywall coming for Scoop? Say it ain't so, Rocky.
No, monetization here has always been a joke. We make some good coin from ads (folks that choose not to log in), but Spiral and I are still in the hole from our years of paying for this place before ads.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 08:56:37 PMlol
I'll bet you a years MUScoop subscription Sean, Tre, Caedin, Josh and Damarius will be back for next season.
No chance.
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 09:20:37 PMYou'll get 2 free years if correct!
I can hardly wait. :D
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 09:25:07 PMI went back and watched the SJU video again. He never once leaned that way, or had the same mannerisms toward that sleeve.
Shaka is going to do things his way.
Even the gametime talk about journaling from his losing season at Texas today enforced that. "It's not about me, it's about the players"
Quote from: Biggie Clausen on March 01, 2026, 08:53:47 PMSerious question: Can we really expect any portal additions next year to be *that* much better than Ross and Gold? If we found out we were adding a 6'4 slasher who averaged 14.5ppg and a 6'11 big who averaged 8 and 6 and could step out and hit the occasional three pointer, we'd probably be ecstatic. I'm not saying it's impossible, but without dropping a bag, I'm not sure how much of an upgrade we can expect from those two.
That's too simplistic.
Are the hypothetical transfers shooting 41% from the field and 26-28% from 3 point range?
If so, that's a problem. If they're much more efficient that's a different story.
Is the new center a rim protector?
It's more about how they get to those numbers.
metrically like a bubble team
Rocky seems to be trying to speak Shaka's dismissal into happening. :-\
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 01, 2026, 10:35:02 PMRocky seems to be trying to speak Shaka's dismissal into happening. :-\
Oh geeze. Not you too. The "two free years" floodgates are hard to close. :P
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 10:36:40 PMOh geeze. Not you too. The "two free years" floodgates are hard to close. :P
;D ;D
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 01, 2026, 10:37:43 PM;D ;D
Next thing we know
@5DollarPitcher will claim he wishes we were DePaul. The world truly has a cycle.
Quote from: BCHoopster on March 01, 2026, 07:01:57 PMYou think the key alumni givers are happy to dole out money to most of these below average players? Doubt it. Times will change drastically or say good bye to the Coach. By the way, Shaka's offensive strategy, watching NJ dribble around is pathetic, the other 3 olayers just stand around
NJ was doing his Markus Howard imitation on Marcus Howard day
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 06:12:36 PMWell yeah. I'm still not convinced Shaka will run anybody off.
A couple of Shaka quotes from the post-DePaul presser:
"We've had our difficulties at times this year." (no sh!t)
"I choose to see the things that our guys can do." (He chooses to not see the things they can't do? Like rebounding, boxing out, making three's, making FT's?)
You may be right, Rock, but it makes for a depressing summer and likely another dismally depressing season. This team is very bad and they need substantial help. If Shaka can't see that, and do something about it, we're screwed.
I do not understand why people put so much credence into what is said at an after-game presser yet don't take Shaka's word for it when he and the program have clearly said the roster building strategy will change.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 02, 2026, 08:30:08 AMI do not understand why people put so much credence into what is said at an after-game presser yet don't take Shaka's word for it when he and the program have clearly said the roster building strategy will change.
I agree with you completely. I don't think people fully understand that Shaka will be coaching for his job next year. Shaka knows this. He also knows he can't just replace Zaide and that's it.
This isn't just a down year. This is a monumental failure of a season we are talking about. We are literally going to have a worse year winning percentage-wise than any year under Bob Dukiet!
Mike Deane and Wojo were fired after going ONE GAME under .500. Do you really think those who write the checks are going to put up with another season remotely close to this one?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 02, 2026, 08:30:08 AMI do not understand why people put so much credence into what is said at an after-game presser yet don't take Shaka's word for it when he and the program have clearly said the roster building strategy will change.
I have to actually see it to believe it. I hold skepticism that, after all the building and promotion of the RGV brand by not just Shaka but also Broeker and President Kimo, there will be substantial changes.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 02, 2026, 08:44:27 AMI agree with you completely. I don't think people fully understand that Shaka will be coaching for his job next year. Shaka knows this. He also knows he can't just replace Zaide and that's it.
This isn't just a down year. This is a monumental failure of a season we are talking about. We are literally going to have a worse year winning percentage-wise than any year under Bob Dukiet!
Mike Deane and Wojo were fired after going ONE GAME under .500. Do you really think those who write the checks are going to put up with another season remotely close to this one?
Drama king. Mike Deane and Wojo in the same context as Shaka? If you think Shaka is "coaching for his job" next year, let's just hope those in charge aren't as dense as you.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on March 02, 2026, 08:50:33 AMDrama king. Mike Deane and Wojo in the same context as Shaka? If you think Shaka is "coaching for his job" next year, let's just hope those in charge aren't as dense as you.
No drama. Stone cold facts. He 100% is coaching for his job next year. He doesn't have to win a national championship. He likely would not even need to make the NCAAs.
But if you think he can survive another year like this one, you are kidding yourself. And why would you want him around as coach if he does?
Quote from: Elonsmusk on March 02, 2026, 08:50:33 AMDrama king. Mike Deane and Wojo in the same context as Shaka? If you think Shaka is "coaching for his job" next year, let's just hope those in charge aren't as dense as you.
If Shaka has a similar record next year his seat will be on fire.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 02, 2026, 08:44:27 AMI agree with you completely. I don't think people fully understand that Shaka will be coaching for his job next year. Shaka knows this. He also knows he can't just replace Zaide and that's it.
This isn't just a down year. This is a monumental failure of a season we are talking about. We are literally going to have a worse year winning percentage-wise than any year under Bob Dukiet!
Mike Deane and Wojo were fired after going ONE GAME under .500. Do you really think those who write the checks are going to put up with another season remotely close to this one?
I am not saying he will be fired and though it is highly unlikely it is a possibility, he just may resign as he no longer wants to coach in this new era of college basketball. If CH, JC and one of Sean, Tre or DO are not gone it will be difficult, even with 4 transfers, to turn next season around, unless the league stinks like it has this season.
We live in interesting times, not just for Marquette, but for the Big East as well.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 02, 2026, 08:46:09 AMI have to actually see it to believe it. I hold skepticism that, after all the building and promotion of the RGV brand by not just Shaka but also Broeker and President Kimo, there will be substantial changes.
I personally don't think RGV and using the portal need to be mutually exclusive. I don't think this turns into something where multiple transfers are added every year unless Shaka completely biffs an entire class again.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 02, 2026, 09:05:16 AMI am not saying he will be fired and though it is highly unlikely it is a possibility, he just may resign as he no longer wants to coach in this new era of college basketball. If CH, JC and one of Sean, Tre or DO are not gone it will be difficult, even with 4 transfers, to turn next season around, unless the league stinks like it has this season.
We live in interesting times, not just for Marquette, but for the Big East as well.
He's given absolutely zero indication that he no longer wants to coach in this new environment. He's young, he's competitive, he makes a lot of money, and he knows how good he has it at Marquette. I'd be absolutely shocked if he pulls a Jay Wright or Tony Bennett.
Furthermore, 4 transfers are not necessary for this to be a tourney team next season.
Also, as long as 3 spots open up, it doesn't matter who leaves, as long as it is not Nigel, Adrien, or Royce.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 02, 2026, 09:07:08 AMI personally don't think RGV and using the portal need to be mutually exclusive. I don't think this turns into something where multiple transfers are added every year unless Shaka completely biffs an entire class again.
I agree, which is why it's so frustrating that we make it a point for the media to report we're one of the only P4+ BE teams that has taken no transfers. When we played MSU in 2023, it was a battle of the only tourney teams that didn't take any transfers the previous recruiting cycle, and the next year MSU took some. When we played Purdue in 2024, it was the same, then Purdue took one in 2025. Meanwhile, MU is plastering "RGV" up in the arena, has its own RGV merchandise line, and is promoting it every chance it can. That's why I'm skeptical, RGV has been promoted as the "we don't take any transfers and we're better than everyone else for that" approach.
Look, we cannot run this team back as it's presently constituted. And if we have this obligation based on NIL or "relationships" it should be reexamined immediately and pivot to here's the door. Write them checks if necessary. Either you're good enough to contribute at MU and high D-1 programs, or you're not. This isn't 4th grade kickball.
We have needs. Many, many, many, needs. I like our trio of Nigel, Royce, and Adrien. Damarius is a question mark but has shown flashes. We may or may not have immediate help from our recruiting class. This isn't enough and it's not debatable. If Shaka refuses to adjust, and we see these same guys that cannot play donning MU unis, we have a serious problem. And it's a problem that cannot linger for another year.
I like Shaka a lot. As I've said before I believe he will make that pivot and find pieces in the portal. We know the man can coach and develop players. You don't luck into back to back #2 seeds. But all that said, the discussion shouldn't be will so and so players be back at MU next season. It should be who will be on our roster replacing them to bring us back to relevancy. What I'm saying is if Shaka refuses to do the obvious, by the recruiting/portal spring/summer, we have to go another direction.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 02, 2026, 08:52:55 AMNo drama. Stone cold facts. He 100% is coaching for his job next year. He doesn't have to win a national championship. He likely would not even need to make the NCAAs.
But if you think he can survive another year like this one, you are kidding yourself. And why would you want him around as coach if he does?
And here's the deal....
I have seen enough of Shaka to know that he can get this done. I 100% believe that this team can be significantly better next year...but it needs more talent.
Replacing one guy isn't going to do it.
I think it ultimately comes down to hubris.
Publicly Shaka seems very down to earth and humble. That said, he had the hubris to believe he could turn Hamilton into a serviceable big. The hubris to believe he could be turn right when everyone else turned left and get the same or better results.
If Shaka is able to take a humble look after this season and say "we need to trim the fat on the team" then he'll get considerably better. If he takes a look and says "the issue is our age, the core pieces were too inexperienced, a year of experience and they'll be great!" Then he'll be out of work.
As Sultan says, shaka will be coaching for his job next year and anyone thinking he's earned back to back years of this level of crap is not objective.
Quote from: The Thing on March 02, 2026, 08:53:18 AMIf Shaka has a similar record next year his seat will be on fire.
His ass should be on fire already.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 02, 2026, 09:07:08 AMI personally don't think RGV and using the portal need to be mutually exclusive. I don't think this turns into something where multiple transfers are added every year unless Shaka completely biffs an entire class again.
RGV and using the portal aren't mutually exclusive. But the version of RGV that's been sold by Shaka and the marketing department is. That version is decidedly hostile to the portal. Avoiding the portal wasn't just a strategic decision. It was a point of pride and principle.
Shaka just needs to pivot to a different, less slavish version of RGV. And, IMO, that version should include exploring the portal every season. Not always for major changes and additions, as we should expect/hope for this year. But there should never be a season in which Shaka isn't at least exploring the market for upgrades, whether that be in the starting lineup or to bolster the bench.
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 02, 2026, 10:00:19 AMI think it ultimately comes down to hubris.
Publicly Shaka seems very down to earth and humble. That said, he had the hubris to believe he could turn Hamilton into a serviceable big. The hubris to believe he could be turn right when everyone else turned left and get the same or better results.
If Shaka is able to take a humble look after this season and say "we need to trim the fat on the team" then he'll get considerably better. If he takes a look and says "the issue is our age, the core pieces were too inexperienced, a year of experience and they'll be great!" Then he'll be out of work.
As Sultan says, shaka will be coaching for his job next year and anyone thinking he's earned back to back years of this level of crap is not objective.
The hubris to deploy the NORMILTON!
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 06:53:30 PMI know several will tell you Shaka has changed his tune, and maybe he has. But did you watch the 60 second vimeo video I linked?
That video was uploaded October 28th of last year. A whole helluva lot has changed since then.
Marquette is at a crossroad -- again.
1) Continue the charade of RGV and live in the past. By March 2027, Coach Shaka either leaves and the Marquette coaching merry-go-round continues or we regress into a weak mid-major and losing to DePaul twice, Providence, Seton Hall, Butler and other teams becomes commonplace.
2) Step up, spend money, become a "Purdue" and again compete with UConn and Slick Rick. This will be expensive and a total departure from where we are, but I suspect even the best of our current team, Nigel, Royce and Adrien, would be excited about this if we brought in the "right" people who filled holes.
The need for change is urgent. Failure to act means we lose what we have, as our best players undoubtedly will entertain offers to go where they can win now. We'll be left with a hollowed-out program that is reminiscent of DePaul for the last 30 years, with no apparent way out.
Next year, we will celebrate the 50th anniversary of our 1977 Championship team. We will be reminded of how good we once were and how great we can be again. Last thing in the world anyone wants to happen as the university celebrates the 1977 accomplishment will be have a team as bad, unfocused and losing as this team is.
Quote from: dgies9156 on March 02, 2026, 10:44:47 AMThe need for change is urgent. Failure to act means we lose what we have, as our best players undoubtedly will entertain offers to go where they can win now.
With respect to the players currently on the roster.
I don't think anyone on our roster is good enough to be Michigan or Duke's 6th man this year.
If the roster gets blown up... life would be fine.
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 02, 2026, 10:00:19 AMI think it ultimately comes down to hubris.
Publicly Shaka seems very down to earth and humble. That said, he had the hubris to believe he could turn Hamilton into a serviceable big. The hubris to believe he could be turn right when everyone else turned left and get the same or better results.
If Shaka is able to take a humble look after this season and say "we need to trim the fat on the team" then he'll get considerably better. If he takes a look and says "the issue is our age, the core pieces were too inexperienced, a year of experience and they'll be great!" Then he'll be out of work.
As Sultan says, shaka will be coaching for his job next year and anyone thinking he's earned back to back years of this level of crap is not objective.
Nice spot-on summary in italics. Kudos!
Even though scoop is clearly an opinion forum, the posts here are mostly presented as factual-"
I'm right, which means
you're wrong, and that
settles it!"
My opinion is that what Shaka will do is
far from predictable. I think that the statement from the Athletic Department was so forced that I do not read his openness to transfers as being something that he wholeheartedly accepts. And despite the enormous ramifications of Shaka departing from Marquette, his walking away would not be a total shock to me, although I think it is very unlikely. He seems so deeply committed to his personal beliefs and the potential consequences that he may say "Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!" and go down with the ship.
The alternative-that he will finally torpedo RGV as the operating system and stop playing the role of Coach Don Quixote-is also a real possibility. If any good came out of the Gawdawful DePaul fiasco, perhaps any remaining illusions that Shaka may have had that he could make RGV 2.0 work hopefully were extinguished.
Regarding RGV and its branding, I think Shaka should use this season as a way to say "it was referring to the Big East Championship team" essentially rebrand it as something that locks Omax/TKO/Oso/Kam/Stevie/Jop/Chase/Ben/Sean all together and say this is a new era with a new mantra time to put that one to bed.
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 02, 2026, 12:09:46 PMRegarding RGV and its branding, I think Shaka should use this season as a way to say "it was referring to the Big East Championship team" essentially rebrand it as something that locks Omax/TKO/Oso/Kam/Stevie/Jop/Chase/Ben/Sean all together and say this is a new era with a new mantra time to put that one to bed.
Agree, but he has dug himself in SO deep on RGV, especially where he has shoehorned the word "growth" into many of his comments. After the UW stomping, our "huge" victory over Valpo ::) and again in his presser after yesterday's game are just a few examples. Glaciers grow faster than some of his projects.
No one knows what is going on in Shaka's head, and that may include Shaka himself. That's why I
guess at what he may do but refuse to predict what he will do.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on March 02, 2026, 12:46:57 PMAgree, but he has dug himself in SO deep on RGV, especially where he has shoehorned the word "growth" into many of his comments. After the UW stomping, our "huge" victory over Valpo ::) and again in his presser after yesterday's game are just a few examples. Glaciers grow faster than some of his projects.
No one knows what is going on in Shaka's head, and that may include Shaka himself. That's why I guess at what he may do but refuse to predict what he will do.
Hey now, that Valpo team was a MVC title contender per Shaka. Never mind their 8th place finish and recent loss to then 6-23 Evansville.
Quote from: Biggie Clausen on March 01, 2026, 08:53:47 PMSerious question: Can we really expect any portal additions next year to be *that* much better than Ross and Gold? If we found out we were adding a 6'4 slasher who averaged 14.5ppg and a 6'11 big who averaged 8 and 6 and could step out and hit the occasional three pointer, we'd probably be ecstatic. I'm not saying it's impossible, but without dropping a bag, I'm not sure how much of an upgrade we can expect from those two.
Considering there is much more to what makes a player "good" or a "winner" than a stat like ppg, yes, I think we can add multiple players that are significantly better than those bums.
Quote from: Tha Hound on March 02, 2026, 03:23:56 PMConsidering there is much more to what makes a player "good" or a "winner" than a stat like ppg, yes, I think we can add multiple players that are significantly better than those bums.
I'm not sure I would go so far as to call them "bums", but yes, regardless of who is added, it would not be a surprise at all if Nigel and Royce lead the team in scoring next year. When looking at additions via the portal, the defensive side of the ball should be a priority.
Quote from: Its DJOver on March 02, 2026, 03:31:26 PMI'm not sure I would go so far as to call them "bums", but yes, regardless of who is added, it would not be a surprise at all if Nigel and Royce lead the team in scoring next year. When looking at additions via the portal, the defensive side of the ball should be a priority.
I definitely wouldn't call them "bums." Frankly, that's pretty pathetic.
They are two players who couldn't step up and play larger roles. But both seem like pretty decent dudes who represented the university well.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 02, 2026, 03:36:34 PMI definitely wouldn't call them "bums." Frankly, that's pretty pathetic.
They are two players who couldn't step up and play larger roles. But both seem like pretty decent dudes who represented the university well.
Yup. And they also were valuable contributors to teams that did a lot of winning, including Big East championship and Sweet 16 teams.
I'm glad they've been part of our program, and I'd be giving them a nice round of applause if I could attend Senior Night.
Quote from: MU82 on March 01, 2026, 05:58:38 PMSure, that sucked, but ...
14 points ... in 20 minutes ... at home ... vs DePaul.
I'll stick with that.
We were 2-13 in 1941 and averaged 32 points per game.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on March 02, 2026, 08:46:09 AMI have to actually see it to believe it. I hold skepticism that, after all the building and promotion of the RGV brand by not just Shaka but also Broeker and President Kimo, there will be substantial changes.
Agreed. I know it's semantics, but has anyone heard Shaka say the word "portal" at all? Like any politician in today's world know, leave yourself an "out.> "I never said I was going to use the portal." :)
That being said, I personally believe he WILL use the portal for more than one player.
Quote from: romey on March 02, 2026, 08:36:17 PMAgreed. I know it's semantics, but has anyone heard Shaka say the word "portal" at all? Like any politician in today's world know, leave yourself an "out.> "I never said I was going to use the portal." :)
That being said, I personally believe he WILL use the portal for more than one player.
IF it turns out Shaka is playing "word games", I'm done with him. Jerking around fans and media is pathetic. Any coach who is reduced to wordsmithing his messaging is in the final throws of his tenure.
I seriously doubt he'd do that.
Quote from: romey on March 02, 2026, 08:17:19 PMWe were 2-13 in 1941 and averaged 32 points per game.
I said it was the worst half I had ever seen, and I'm sticking to it. I'm old AF, but not that effen old!
Quote from: rocky_warrior on March 01, 2026, 07:37:02 PMI'm saying he won't tell anyone to leave. The wardrobe choices are confirming what I'm saying. But, believe what you want.
Pretty sure some of those conversations have already happened.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 04, 2026, 08:51:07 AMPretty sure some of those conversations have already happened.
If true. All the better.
Aside from a garbage-time minute vs. Georgetown, Josh Clark hasn't played a single second in weeks. Seems like Shaka has made up his mind on Clark, and it's hard to believe he's in the plans for the future.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 02, 2026, 08:44:27 AMThis isn't just a down year. This is a monumental failure of a season we are talking about. We are literally going to have a worse year winning percentage-wise than any year under Bob Dukiet!
Yep...almost certainly. Two of my years on campus were the two worst teams (winning percentage-wise) since the early 60s. 1987-88 was 0.36 and 1990-91 was 0.38. It's looking like this team may have a worse winning percentage than either those teams. At this point, to
even match the 1987-88 team we'll have to beat Providence and win one in the BET. I think that's doable, but I wouldn't bet my 'Scoop dues on it.
Quote from: MU82 on March 04, 2026, 10:26:12 AMAside from a garbage-time minute vs. Georgetown, Josh Clark hasn't played a single second in weeks. Seems like Shaka has made up his mind on Clark, and it's hard to believe he's in the plans for the future.
Yeah. Sean is gone. I'd assume Clark is too. My gut says Caedin stays. Tre is the wild card. Spot in rotation has dropped, firmly behind DO. He's one of the last guys off the bench. I think he goes, but wouldn't be shocked if he stays
I find myself hoping that the R&G includes telling kids, "I've loved our time together and think you're a great kid...but you're not going to grow as a player in the Big East. Let's make some calls and find a better place for you." That's completely consistent with the RGV philosophy. That's Shaka admitting that maybe it wasn't the best fit and the best thing for everyone is to acknowledge that. I may be wrong, but I had a sense that this is how things went down with Itejere.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 04, 2026, 08:51:07 AMPretty sure some of those conversations have already happened.
Confirms he didn't tell the right players/enough people
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 11:06:50 AMConfirms he didn't tell the right players/enough people
How?
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 11:06:50 AMConfirms he didn't tell the right players/enough people
What on earth are you talking about?
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 11:06:50 AMConfirms he didn't tell the right players/enough people
Wut?
Quote from: MU82 on March 04, 2026, 11:32:48 AMWut?
I think he believes we need something like ten transfers.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 04, 2026, 11:40:47 AMI think he believes we need something like ten transfers.
Next year, we are on tract to have 3 players better than an average Big East player.
We need 6-7+ transfers.
Otherwise we are on track for a 17-15 record next season.
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 11:57:46 AMNext year, we are on tract to have 3 players better than an average Big East player.
We need 6-7+ transfers.
Otherwise we are on tract for a 17-15 record next season.
You know ball
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 11:57:46 AMNext year, we are on tract to have 3 players better than an average Big East player.
We need 6-7+ transfers.
Otherwise we are on tract for a 17-15 record next season.
LOL
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 11:57:46 AMNext year, we are on tract to have 3 players better than an average Big East player.
We need 6-7+ transfers.
Otherwise we are on track for a 17-15 record next season.
You don't need 10 "better than average Big East players."
Not to mention, we have 3 redshirts (2 of which are redshirting because the came a year/a half year early) and 2 incoming freshman. Will any of them be "better than average Big East players?" Maybe not. But we have 2 freshman this year that are showing to be well worth having on our roster. I'd expect a couple of the freshman/redshirts show to be well worth having on the roster next year.
We need 3 high level transfers.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 04, 2026, 12:20:32 PMYou don't need 10 "better than average Big East players."
No you need 6 or 7 guys better than average.
And your faith in this staff to have 7 for 7 hit rate is crazy. I'm praying for 3 hits.
You should take more swings to get those
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 12:26:53 PMNo you need 6 or 7 guys better than average.
And your faith in this staff to have 7 for 7 hit rate is crazy. I'm praying for 3 hits.
You should take more swings to get those
We have 3 players on the roster that we know. I won't say I know who they will be, but I'd imagine one or two of the incoming freshman or redshirts will be rotational players at the level of a Ben Gold (who, while not good enough to be a top 3 player, is good enough to contribute to a winning BE program like he did as a sophomore and junior). Identifying transfers is much different than incoming freshman. Transfers have played D1 college basketball before. They won't all work out, but it should be much easier to project immediate production from transfers than it is from incoming freshman.
MU needs a physical BE big who can rebound at a very high rate, defend and protect the rim, and score around the bucket. I'm guessing Pearson will not yet have the girth to bang against seniors in the BE.
MU needs a physical three who can defend and is a serious scorer off the bounce on penetration and from 3.
MU needs a physical combo guard with the same skills as the 3 noted above.
That won't be easy to accomplish but they need all 3 to avoid a pretty glaring weakness. Getting additional experienced players might provide some insurance against poor talent evaluation. It's possible that one of the incoming players will surprise but Shaka is in no position to rely on surprises.
The answer is somewhere in the middle. I don't think it's too far fetched to say we need 4-5 legit big east additions this off season. What last place, 20 loss team can only make minor adjustments to do a complete 180 the following season?
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 12:26:53 PMNo you need 6 or 7 guys better than average.
And your faith in this staff to have 7 for 7 hit rate is crazy. I'm praying for 3 hits.
You should take more swings to get those
To win the conference I'm not sure you even need 7 better than average players. Let's say finishing top 2 is a good barometer of being in contention for the conference championship what 7 players were better than average on 2012, 2013, 2019, 2023, & 2024 teams?
2012, DJO Jae Jamil Vander Davante... Junior?
2013, Vander Jamil Davante Lockett... Junior? Todd Mayo?
2019, Markus Sam...joey? Sacar?
2023, TKO Oso Kam Omax Jop Stevie... Chase?
2024, TKO Oso Kam Jop Stevie... Chase?
Let alone just to compete you definitely don't need 6-7 better than average I mean if we did this with any team that was just competing for a bid you need like two good all conference level guys and one or two more to be reliable and nobody to truly suck.
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 04, 2026, 03:21:34 PMTo win the conference I'm not sure you even need 7 better than average players. Let's say finishing top 2 is a good barometer of being in contention for the conference championship what 7 players were better than average on 2012, 2013, 2019, 2023, & 2024 teams?
2012, DJO Jae Jamil Vander Davante... Junior?
2013, Vander Jamil Davante Lockett... Junior? Todd Mayo?
2019, Markus Sam...joey? Sacar?
2023, TKO Oso Kam Omax Jop Stevie... Chase?
2024, TKO Oso Kam Jop Stevie... Chase?
Let alone just to compete you definitely don't need 6-7 better than average I mean if we did this with any team that was just competing for a bid you need like two good all conference level guys and one or two more to be reliable and nobody to truly suck.
If we want to make the tournament next year I say we have two rock solid BE starters on the roster right now. Steven's is a great piece long term but I'm not sure he's at the level we need for next season as a starter.
We need 4-5 new guys to reverse course next season.
While I would prefer 4 or 5 additions,
MU can be a near the top of the BE next year w / 3 guys ( as Zog described above)
... but only if the 3 additions are in the top 6 for next year.
Hope I am wrong, but still not convinced
Shaka add even three...
Quote from: panda on March 04, 2026, 03:28:33 PMIf we want to make the tournament next year I say we have two rock solid BE starters on the roster right now. Steven's is a great piece long term but I'm not sure he's at the level we need for next season as a starter.
We need 4-5 new guys to reverse course next season.
Here's the thing I think the two biggest wildcards this offseason are him and Owens. We know Parham and James are fairly polished above average big east players. Owens has shown flashes, let's see him do better moving into upper class years (especially without injury for once) than Zaide did. Stephens has also shown huge promise, can he turn into a Stevie with slightly better offense his second year? If both these break our way we need two pieces, if sheek's ready from the jump or another freshman we only need 1. But that's a big gamble, if Shaka wants to ensure we're back with the big boys he may want to bring in more fire power and slot owens and Stephen's to the bench one more year.
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 04, 2026, 03:47:11 PMHere's the thing I think the two biggest wildcards this offseason are him and Owens. We know Parham and James are fairly polished above average big east players. Owens has shown flashes, let's see him do better moving into upper class years (especially without injury for once) than Zaide did. Stephens has also shown huge promise, can he turn into a Stevie with slightly better offense his second year? If both these break our way we need two pieces, if sheek's ready from the jump or another freshman we only need 1. But that's a big gamble, if Shaka wants to ensure we're back with the big boys he may want to bring in more fire power and slot owens and Stephen's to the bench one more year.
Stevens has earned a starting role, IMO. No need to recruit over him. 2 spots open in the starting lineup. Room in the rotation off the bench for 1-2 more.
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 04, 2026, 03:47:11 PMHere's the thing I think the two biggest wildcards this offseason are him and Owens. We know Parham and James are fairly polished above average big east players. Owens has shown flashes, let's see him do better moving into upper class years (especially without injury for once) than Zaide did. Stephens has also shown huge promise, can he turn into a Stevie with slightly better offense his second year? If both these break our way we need two pieces, if sheek's ready from the jump or another freshman we only need 1. But that's a big gamble, if Shaka wants to ensure we're back with the big boys he may want to bring in more fire power and slot owens and Stephen's to the bench one more year.
Totally agree ! Lots of potential and I love those guys. I'm taking a more pragmatic approach realizing those guys most likely wont change the dynamic enough next season.
Quote from: BM1090 on March 04, 2026, 10:29:19 AMYeah. Sean is gone. I'd assume Clark is too. My gut says Caedin stays. Tre is the wild card. Spot in rotation has dropped, firmly behind DO. He's one of the last guys off the bench. I think he goes, but wouldn't be shocked if he stays
Kinda the vibe I'm getting too.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 04, 2026, 04:02:08 PMStevens has earned a starting role, IMO. No need to recruit over him. 2 spots open in the starting lineup. Room in the rotation off the bench for 1-2 more.
While I agree I think it come down to what type of rebound Shakas trying to have. Back to competing with UConn for the conference championship? Stephens to bench cut Owens or move him to end of bench fill 3 starters rolls with extremely proven pieces. If he wants to focus on continuity and get back to competing for bid then sure keep Stephens, hell give Owens a shot. Bring in a sophomore coming off a good freshman year and get one known great expensive commodity.
We're going to bring in 3 transfers. If Stevens has a good offseason and holds off a transfer to keep his starting spot, great! If he is our 6th man, thats great too. We're a really good team if he is our 6th best player (or even the 5th starter).
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 04, 2026, 03:21:34 PMTo win the conference I'm not sure you even need 7 better than average players. Let's say finishing top 2 is a good barometer of being in contention for the conference championship what 7 players were better than average on 2012, 2013, 2019, 2023, & 2024 teams?
2012, DJO Jae Jamil Vander Davante... Junior?
2013, Vander Jamil Davante Lockett... Junior? Todd Mayo?
2019, Markus Sam...joey? Sacar?
2023, TKO Oso Kam Omax Jop Stevie... Chase?
2024, TKO Oso Kam Jop Stevie... Chase?
Let alone just to compete you definitely don't need 6-7 better than average I mean if we did this with any team that was just competing for a bid you need like two good all conference level guys and one or two more to be reliable and nobody to truly suck.
2012, DJO Jae Jamil Vander Davante Junior. Is a good starting 5.
Jamil Wilson and Todd Mayo were above average Big East players that year.
2013, Vander Jamil Davante Lockett Junior. Is a good starting 5
Chris Otule, Juan Anderson, Todd Mayo (pre injury, above average Big East players.
2019, (in a DOWN Big east). Markus and Sam were awesome. Joey was a real starter. Sacer was fine.
Ed Morrow, Matt Heldt, and Theo John were all a bit better than average big east players that year.
2023, TKO Oso Kam Omax Stevie, Great Starting five.
Chase and Jop were better than average big east players.
2024, TTKO Oso Kam Jop Stevie, Great Starting five.
Chase and Ben were better than average big east players.
We just don't understand the difference between what a "contributor" is in comparison to an "above average big east player is".
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 08:52:32 PM2012, DJO Jae Jamil Vander Davante Junior. Is a good starting 5.
Jamil Wilson and Todd Mayo were above average Big East players that year.
2013, Vander Jamil Davante Lockett Junior. Is a good starting 5
Chris Otule, Juan Anderson, Todd Mayo (pre injury, above average Big East players.
2019, (in a DOWN Big east). Markus and Sam were awesome. Joey was a real starter. Sacer was fine.
Ed Morrow, Matt Heldt, and Theo John were all a bit better than average big east players that year.
2023, TKO Oso Kam Omax Stevie, Great Starting five.
Chase and Jop were better than average big east players.
2024, TTKO Oso Kam Jop Stevie, Great Starting five.
Chase and Ben were better than average big east players.
We just don't understand the difference between what a "contributor" is in comparison to an "above average big east player is".
So you think guys like Ed Morrow and Matt Heldt are above average Big East players? We should have zero issue getting a dozen above average Big East players then.
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 04, 2026, 04:28:33 PMWhile I agree I think it come down to what type of rebound Shakas trying to have. Back to competing with UConn for the conference championship? Stephens to bench cut Owens or move him to end of bench fill 3 starters rolls with extremely proven pieces. If he wants to focus on continuity and get back to competing for bid then sure keep Stephens, hell give Owens a shot. Bring in a sophomore coming off a good freshman year and get one known great expensive commodity.
No way Shaka will reverse course that dramatically. Stevens will be a starter, along with Nigel and Royce. He will already be significantly changes his approach if he brings in even 1 starter-level transfer. For me, I hope he brings in 2 such players, and a third that fills in bench needs, depending on who ends up leaving.
Quote from: mug644 on March 04, 2026, 09:01:28 PMNo way Shaka will reverse course that dramatically. Stevens will be a starter, along with Nigel and Royce. He will already be significantly changes his approach if he brings in even 1 starter-level transfer. For me, I hope he brings in 2 such players, and a third that fills in bench needs, depending on who ends up leaving.
Need to ironically replace our two seniors with much better players, and then get another guy who is also top 5 talent-wise, even if he's coming off the bench. Then if we can get some very solid production out of a few of the redshirts/newcomers that would go a long way. The foundation is there. Find a very solid big man, a versatile wing and whatever bpa as the third transfer. Will happily accept more than 3 but that's my expectation.
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 11:57:46 AMNext year, we are on tract to have 3 players better than an average Big East player.
We need 6-7+ transfers.
Otherwise we are on track for a 17-15 record next season.
I'll agree with the first part, but disagree with the 2nd- although we are on track, not on GI tract...
I think this offseason is about quality and not quantity of incoming transfer.
Shaka has plenty of unknown "bodies" that we have yet to really see on the court, many of which fit the size/athleticism/recruiting pedigree that he covets.
This is obviously not good enough to win next season, but you'd have to hope that 1-2 of the 6-7 of these are good enough to be a better than average BE player.
In this group I would place
Phillips, Clark, Miletic, Pearson, Walker, Egbuonu, Johnston.
You could say 2 of them becoming "better than average" BE players next season is wishful thinking, but I'd say it's impossible that at least one doesn't...
So let's say 1-2 fit the bill.
Of the others, I think it's impossible for Tre and Caedin to become above avg BE players, no offense to them. I think SJ22 will be gone- no insider info just feels like the writing is on the wall. So those 3 are out.
Damarius can, and if things fall in place he should, but no guarantee.
So of that group of 4 we will say 0.5 😂
So, that's 5, maybe 6 guys that should fit the bill of "better than average" by my completely inaccurate math.
Back to my original point
Shaka, in my opinion, needs 2 difference makers in the portal to have a solid tournament team next season. That's really not that easy, it seems like it's actually pretty hard.
If you define a "difference maker" as a "better than average" BE player it becomes a bit more manageable.
I think Shaka can get 2 of these guys, but it would be Smart to bring in 3, or maybe even 4?, in order to fall back to 2.
That would give him 7 better than average BE players that he needs to have a team that we can cheer for in late March.
6-7 transfers given his history and all the young, albeit unproven recruits that he has is a very extreme stretch, and also unnecessary.
2 quality "better than avg" BE newcomers will suffice.
He can get there with 3/4 incoming transfers, and he can open those extra spots with the departures of a few of the guys I mentioned above
Quote from: panda on March 04, 2026, 03:28:33 PMIf we want to make the tournament next year I say we have two rock solid BE starters on the roster right now. Steven's is a great piece long term but I'm not sure he's at the level we need for next season as a starter.
We need 4-5 new guys to reverse course next season.
Stevens will be a solid starter next season.
Quote from: DoctorV on March 04, 2026, 10:03:19 PMI'll agree with the first part, but disagree with the 2nd- although we are on track, not on GI tract...
I think this offseason is about quality and not quantity of incoming transfer.
Shaka has plenty of unknown "bodies" that we have yet to really see on the court, many of which fit the size/athleticism/recruiting pedigree that he covets.
This is obviously not good enough to win next season, but you'd have to hope that 1-2 of the 6-7 of these are good enough to be a better than average BE player.
In this group I would place
Phillips, Clark, Miletic, Pearson, Walker, Egbuonu, Johnston.
You could say 2 of them becoming "better than average" BE players next season is wishful thinking, but I'd say it's impossible that at least one doesn't...
So let's say 1-2 fit the bill.
Of the others, I think it's impossible for Tre and Caedin to become above avg BE players, no offense to them. I think SJ22 will be gone- no insider info just feels like the writing is on the wall. So those 3 are out.
Damarius can, and if things fall in place he should, but no guarantee.
So of that group of 4 we will say 0.5 😂
So, that's 5, maybe 6 guys that should fit the bill of "better than average" by my completely inaccurate math.
Back to my original point
Shaka, in my opinion, needs 2 difference makers in the portal to have a solid tournament team next season. That's really not that easy, it seems like it's actually pretty hard.
If you define a "difference maker" as a "better than average" BE player it becomes a bit more manageable.
I think Shaka can get 2 of these guys, but it would be Smart to bring in 3, or maybe even 4?, in order to fall back to 2.
That would give him 7 better than average BE players that he needs to have a team that we can cheer for in late March.
6-7 transfers given his history and all the young, albeit unproven recruits that he has is a very extreme stretch, and also unnecessary.
2 quality "better than avg" BE newcomers will suffice.
He can get there with 3/4 incoming transfers, and he can open those extra spots with the departures of a few of the guys I mentioned above
Absolutely need a 5 that can defend and do some damage around the rim.
As it turns out, the first half against DePaul was the outlier.
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 04, 2026, 03:47:11 PMHere's the thing I think the two biggest wildcards this offseason are him and Owens. We know Parham and James are fairly polished above average big east players. Owens has shown flashes, let's see him do better moving into upper class years (especially without injury for once) than Zaide did. Stephens has also shown huge promise, can he turn into a Stevie with slightly better offense his second year? If both these break our way we need two pieces, if sheek's ready from the jump or another freshman we only need 1. But that's a big gamble, if Shaka wants to ensure we're back with the big boys he may want to bring in more fire power and slot owens and Stephen's to the bench one more year.
We have 2-3 nice pieces right now for next year and hopefully at least 2 of the redshirts/new recruits will be solid contributors. But we need more to compete for BEast title and hang with the big boys. Shaka has allowed the gap to be massive.
Quote from: MU82 on March 05, 2026, 12:45:19 AMAs it turns out, the first half against DePaul was the outlier.
Uh...no. Yesterday was nice but in many ways was fool's gold.
Don't get me wrong, I think they are playing well and it's a credit to Shaka that they are still playing very hard. But they haven't had a win over a top half Big East team in a month.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 05, 2026, 07:56:02 AMUh...no. Yesterday was nice but in many ways was fool's gold.
Don't get me wrong, I think they are playing well and it's a credit to Shaka that they are still playing very hard. But they haven't had a win over a top half Big East team in a month.
"Top half Big East team." Who cares. The team, as you say is playing "well." Much better than they were in 2025. They arguably should have beaten Villanova and Seton Hall in the last two matchups - perhaps in all 4 games. They played St John's tight.
In the height of the negativity of the drama kings, posts were getting made suggesting the team may not win a Big East game.
We are up to 91 in KenPom - better than Wojo's first two seasons, including his 20 win team in 2016 that went 8-10 in the Big East.
So, from a metric perspective we aren't having our worst season in 50 years, much less 10 years. And the team has its best freshman at PG in the last 50+ years. Two other promising underclassmen. Two Top 100ish recruits sitting out this season who will be eligible next year. Egbouno looks like a Deonte Burton 2.0 who should be able to contribute meaningfully next year.
We hit a speed bump this year. Ross, Gold, and Lowery all underperformed reasonable expectations. Which you of course assign to the coach, but its ultimately on the Senior players to shoot better than 25% on 3's, and not fall off a cliff to 91 O-Ratings in conference play, from a projected 1st Team All Big East player
Quote from: Elonsmusk on March 05, 2026, 08:41:04 AMWe hit a speed bump this year. Ross, Gold, and Lowery all underperformed reasonable expectations. Which you of course assign to the coach, but its ultimately on the Senior players to shoot better than 25% on 3's, and not fall off a cliff to 91 O-Ratings in conference play, from a projected 1st Team All Big East player
I assign blame for this season to both the coach and the players. But the coach is where the buck ultimately stops. He is the head of the program. Shaka know this and would undoubtedly agree.
Thank you Elon for tbe common sense. We need to "DOGE" this forum. A bunch of drama queens that can't handle a bit of adversity. We have a great young core of players and some high potential recruits and redshirts. De we need a couple key pieces out of the portal... absolutely. Are we in the midst of the Dukeit malaise...absolutely not.
Quote from: PJDunn on March 05, 2026, 08:56:29 AMThank you Elon for tbe common sense. We need to "DOGE" this forum. A bunch of drama queens that can't handle a bit of adversity. We have a great young core of players and some high potential recruits and redshirts. De we need a couple key pieces out of the portal... absolutely. Are we in the midst of the Dukeit malaise...absolutely not.
Oh, geez.
Equating a bad season to "facing adversity" as a fan is silly.
Elon isn't brave for slurping through one of the worst seasons in program history. You weren't courageous because you left your TV on when the team was down 30+ at Creighton. Shaka faced adversity this year. Players faced adversity this year. We're just spectators.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 04, 2026, 08:55:45 PMSo you think guys like Ed Morrow and Matt Heldt are above average Big East players? We should have zero issue getting a dozen above average Big East players then.
They should...
They haven't in the past two years.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 05, 2026, 09:22:49 AMOh, geez.
Equating a bad season to "facing adversity" as a fan is silly.
Elon isn't brave for slurping through one of the worst seasons in program history. You weren't courageous because you left your TV on when the team was down 30+ at Creighton. Shaka faced adversity this year. Players faced adversity this year. We're just spectators.
Whining about 1 bad season out of 5 from Shaka, like you and your other drama king gang here has done all season, doesn't show a whole lot of maturity or emotional fortitude for that matter. It's especially weird coming from posters like you who were full tilt Wojo backers for 5 years.
But thank you for the incredibly insightful observation that Scoopers are just spectators, and not players. Genius.
Quote from: MU82 on March 05, 2026, 12:45:19 AMAs it turns out, the first half against DePaul was the outlier.
Marquette's offense Ranks 9th in the big east even when you only look at conference play (when we played our best).
Quote from: Elonsmusk on March 05, 2026, 09:55:13 AMWhining about 1 bad season out of 5 from Shaka, like you and your other drama king gang here has done all season, doesn't show a whole lot of maturity or emotional fortitude for that matter. It's especially weird coming from posters like you who were full tilt Wojo backers for 5 years.
But thank you for the incredibly insightful observation that Scoopers are just spectators, and not players. Genius.
Dude who got on a player for not "slapping of five" is complaining about other's "maturity and emotional fortitude."
Man, this place is so funny sometimes.
Quote from: PJDunn on March 05, 2026, 08:56:29 AMThank you Elon for tbe common sense. We need to "DOGE" this forum. A bunch of drama queens that can't handle a bit of adversity. We have a great young core of players and some high potential recruits and redshirts. De we need a couple key pieces out of the portal... absolutely. Are we in the midst of the Dukeit malaise...absolutely not.
Literally no one claimed the bolded. Jeez, the number of people on here who can't discern basic English is stunning.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on March 05, 2026, 09:55:13 AMWhining about 1 bad season out of 5 from Shaka, like you and your other drama king gang here has done all season, doesn't show a whole lot of maturity or emotional fortitude for that matter.
Yes, we should all have your emotional fortitude and maturity.
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 08:52:32 PM2012, DJO Jae Jamil Vander Davante Junior. Is a good starting 5.
Jamil Wilson and Todd Mayo were above average Big East players that year.
2013, Vander Jamil Davante Lockett Junior. Is a good starting 5
Chris Otule, Juan Anderson, Todd Mayo (pre injury, above average Big East players.
2019, (in a DOWN Big east). Markus and Sam were awesome. Joey was a real starter. Sacer was fine.
Ed Morrow, Matt Heldt, and Theo John were all a bit better than average big east players that year.
2023, TKO Oso Kam Omax Stevie, Great Starting five.
Chase and Jop were better than average big east players.
2024, TTKO Oso Kam Jop Stevie, Great Starting five.
Chase and Ben were better than average big east players.
We just don't understand the difference between what a "contributor" is in comparison to an "above average big east player is".
Ed morrow... Matt held... Chris otule... Juan Anderson... if these are the barometer for better than average big east player then we have 4 better than average next year (I'm 100% sure Owens can be Ed morrow of 2019 or Juan of 2013). Given you think we need 6-7 to be competitive I think a 50% hit rate on red shirts, freshmen, potential transfers, & a barely used Philips is more than achievable.
Quote from: MU82 on March 05, 2026, 12:45:19 AMAs it turns out, the first half against DePaul was the outlier.
DePaul is a much tougher and better coached than Providence. MU losing to DePaul twice was no fluke. MU was physically dominated by DePaul.
Quote from: Zog from Margo on March 05, 2026, 10:15:02 AMDePaul is a much tougher and better coached than Providence. MU losing to DePaul twice was no fluke. MU was physically dominated by DePaul.
Yeah, Holtman doesn't have the talent there yet. But they're a real basketball team.
Marquette, mentally, is way ahead of Providence.
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 05, 2026, 10:14:04 AMEd morrow... Matt held... Chris otule... Juan Anderson... if these are the barometer for better than average big east player then we have 4 better than average next year (I'm 100% sure Owens can be Ed morrow of 2019 or Juan of 2013). Given you think we need 6-7 to be competitive I think a 50% hit rate on red shirts, freshmen, potential transfers, & a barely used Philips is more than achievable.
To be fair, Morrow was pretty solid in his one full season at MU.
Third on the team in WS/40 and player efficiency rating (behind Markus and Sam), first in rebounding %, third in TS% and eFG%. Not a star by any stretch, but a guy who had a positive impact.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 05, 2026, 10:30:37 AMTo be fair, Morrow was pretty solid in his one full season at MU.
Third in the team in WS/40 and player efficiency rating (behind Markus and Sam), first in rebounding %, third in TS% and eFG%. Not a star by any stretch, but a guy who had a positive impact.
Maybe I'm mixing up seasons, I was living in Ireland then so my memory from watching the games at 1am 2am or 3am is a bit fuzzy.
Quote from: Zog from Margo on March 05, 2026, 10:15:02 AMDePaul is a much tougher and better coached than Providence. MU losing to DePaul twice was no fluke. MU was physically dominated by DePaul.
Providence swept DePaul
Quote from: Pakuni on March 05, 2026, 10:30:37 AMTo be fair, Morrow was pretty solid in his one full season at MU.
Third on the team in WS/40 and player efficiency rating (behind Markus and Sam), first in rebounding %, third in TS% and eFG%. Not a star by any stretch, but a guy who had a positive impact.
Yeah he was solid. I don't think he was a fit for the offense at all or Wojo didn't know how to use him. But I thought Ed was generally solid for us
Quote from: BM1090 on March 05, 2026, 10:46:34 AMTalent disparity
So because Providence is more talented than DePaul, our wins over them are far less significant than our losses to DePaul?
Quote from: MU90620 on March 05, 2026, 10:51:03 AMSo because Providence is more talented than DePaul, our wins over them are far less significant than our losses to DePaul?
No?
I'm just offering an explanation of why DePaul could be a better coached, tougher team than Providence but still lose to them twice.
Quote from: Elonsmusk on March 05, 2026, 08:41:04 AM"Top half Big East team." Who cares. The team, as you say is playing "well." Much better than they were in 2025. They arguably should have beaten Villanova and Seton Hall in the last two matchups - perhaps in all 4 games. They played St John's tight.
In the height of the negativity of the drama kings, posts were getting made suggesting the team may not win a Big East game.
We are up to 91 in KenPom - better than Wojo's first two seasons, including his 20 win team in 2016 that went 8-10 in the Big East.
So, from a metric perspective we aren't having our worst season in 50 years, much less 10 years. And the team has its best freshman at PG in the last 50+ years. Two other promising underclassmen. Two Top 100ish recruits sitting out this season who will be eligible next year. Egbouno looks like a Deonte Burton 2.0 who should be able to contribute meaningfully next year.
We hit a speed bump this year. Ross, Gold, and Lowery all underperformed reasonable expectations. Which you of course assign to the coach, but its ultimately on the Senior players to shoot better than 25% on 3's, and not fall off a cliff to 91 O-Ratings in conference play, from a projected 1st Team All Big East player
I agree with much of what you lay out here.
A few nit picks. At the worst point of the season it did look like a DePaul and Georgetown like 0 fer Big east record was possible. The first two months were possibly the worst and most incompetent basketball I have seen MU play in my lifetime. Wondering if they could win more than 2 games was a legitimate fear.
Also after mentioning the seniors you don't emphasize the junior class in this debacle. Basically two years of classes missed by Shaka setting the program back at least one year.
Other than that I agree. I am optimistic for next year because we have several real D1 players, one of which could be an All American that should return. Last year, and I keep saying it, we had to turn our brains into pretzels to think we would have a good team this year. The on off Kam splits were really bad last year and no one paid attention to it or willfully ignored it for some stupid reason.
The arrow is pointing up now. Supplement this roster with a few portal additions and the freshmen (RS and true) and we will forget all about this misery. I'm bullish on next year pending portal moves.
My "outlier" line was a joke-ish response to rocky having claimed that pretty much all of our good wins were outliers while anything else was "normal."
But I also think it's true that the first half against DePaul was an outlier compared to how the team has generally played the last two months. As I said previously, it was the worst half of MU hoops that I can remember witnessing. Otherwise, our team played has played mostly decent basketball. That's basically the definition of "outlier," no?
These last couple of months, we've had several impressive victories and also some close losses to good (and in St. John's case, very good) teams. We still had a losing record over that time, and that's not acceptable for the Marquette program.
April is gonna be one hell of an interesting month to see how Shaka responds.