I haven't watched much of the game. Was busy earning a medal in hard fought PB games. However, watched the last 5 mins and took a quick look at the play-by-play. As I've been saying the entire season, a big concern has been weird choices the coaching staff has made.
So, here we go again. #muMbb up 8-4 in a sluggish start to the game.. 14:34 on the clock.
18 and Tre come in. Four minutes later we're losing.
I don't mean this in the wrong way, but #dafuq
It's a concern that will continue to be with me. That is, bizarre coaching decisions.
Obviously lots of issues in this one, but man... sometimes I can't figure out wtf we're thinking from a personnel deployment situation. In the final minutes, the senior center for the sleeping giant.. smh.. needed some Ben in there imo.
Very frustrating.
Also, eff outta here for anyone talking about 'ft's matta'. Bruh, 50% from the line was great offense for this game. We scored 0.81 ppp this game. Puke. Worst OE of the season.
Hamilton gave up 6 points immediately off the bench. He is incapable of guarding anyone on the perimeter. I've never seen such a wide array of differently skilled players constantly and easily best him off the dribble.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 01, 2026, 07:08:10 PM18 and Tre come in. Four minutes later we're losing.
I don't mean this in the wrong way, but #dafuq
It's a concern that will continue to be with me. That is, bizarre coaching decisions.
Exactly. Now plenty of bad happened after they left, but you have a team struggling to score and you put two offensive black holes out there and...uh...what exactly do you think is going to happen?
Anyway there just isn't enough talent on this team. Even the "core" we are counting on returning next season is wildly inconsistent.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 01, 2026, 07:08:10 PMI haven't watched much of the game. Was busy earning a medal in hard fought PB games. However, watched the last 5 mins and took a quick look at the play-by-play. As I've been saying the entire season, a big concern has been weird choices the coaching staff has made.
So, here we go again. #muMbb up 8-4 in a sluggish start to the game.. 14:34 on the clock.
18 and Tre come in. Four minutes later we're losing.
I don't mean this in the wrong way, but #dafuq
It's a concern that will continue to be with me. That is, bizarre coaching decisions.
Obviously lots of issues in this one, but man... sometimes I can't figure out wtf we're thinking from a personnel deployment situation. In the final minutes, the senior center for the sleeping giant.. smh.. needed some Ben in there imo.
Very frustrating.
Also, eff outta here for anyone talking about 'ft's matta'. Bruh, 50% from the line was great offense for this game. We scored 0.81 ppp this game. Puke. Worst OE of the season.
Totally agree with you, but the starters can't play 40 minutes either. The bench isn't exactly loaded. Darn frustrating.
Quote from: Nukem2 on March 01, 2026, 07:45:30 PMTotally agree with you, but the starters can't play 40 minutes either. The bench isn't exactly loaded. Darn frustrating.
Completely agree. People complain about Shaka bringing in this guy or that guy. The fact is the bench is Owens, Norman, Hamilton, Phillips, and Clark. Unless the starters are going to play 40 minutes, whom else do you suggest he bring in? Yes, it is his own fault for having such a crappy bench, but at this point it is what it is.
Quote from: ChuckyChip on March 01, 2026, 07:53:39 PMCompletely agree. People complain about Shaka bringing in this guy or that guy. The fact is the bench is Owens, Norman, Hamilton, Phillips, and Clark. Unless the starters are going to play 40 minutes, whom else do you suggest he bring in? Yes, it is his own fault for having such a crappy bench, but at this point it is what it is.
If guys are good enough to play 4 years in the NCAA, then they shouldn't be on the bench. *cough* redshirts *cough*.
Quote from: ChuckyChip on March 01, 2026, 07:53:39 PMCompletely agree. People complain about Shaka bringing in this guy or that guy. The fact is the bench is Owens, Norman, Hamilton, Phillips, and Clark. Unless the starters are going to play 40 minutes, whom else do you suggest he bring in? Yes, it is his own fault for having such a crappy bench, but at this point it is what it is.
I think JB has issues with bringing in 18 and 5 at the same time.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 01, 2026, 07:56:44 PMI think JB has issues with bringing in 18 and 5 at the same time.
Show some respect
Fun fact: we're less than two weeks away from all upperclassmen being relieved of their duties; official portal opening on April 7. Hopefully 3 new additions who can start.
Quote from: Warrior of Law on March 01, 2026, 08:16:10 PMFun fact: we're less than two weeks away from all upperclassmen being relieved of their duties; official portal opening on April 7. Hopefully 3 new additions who can start.
There will be 6 starters next season?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 01, 2026, 08:19:25 PMThere will be 6 starters next season?
We could use some power play buckets!
This is why Tre and Caedin need to be politely told it's time to go. Simply replacing Chase and Ben doesn't solve the above issue.
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on March 02, 2026, 01:15:39 PMThis is why Tre and Caedin need to be politely told it's time to go. Simply replacing Chase and Ben doesn't solve the above issue.
What if Tre and Caedin are the 14th and 15th men and never play, and if, after adding 2-3 good portal players, we have 8-9 solid to very good players for the rotation?
Quote from: MU82 on March 02, 2026, 02:04:43 PMWhat if Tre and Caedin are the 14th and 15th men and never play, and if, after adding 2-3 good portal players, we have 8-9 solid to very good players for the rotation?
2 more spots need to open from the Sean, Tre, Hamilton, and Clark group. It doesn't really matter which 2. If more than 2 open up from that group, great.
Quote from: MU82 on March 02, 2026, 02:04:43 PMWhat if Tre and Caedin are the 14th and 15th men and never play, and if, after adding 2-3 good portal players, we have 8-9 solid to very good players for the rotation?
For that to happen it would mean five first year players are better than them, plus Josh Clark. I don't think that's very realistic or a sound strategy. And if that's possible, why keep them at all? I'd rather 14th and 15th be for redshirts and frosh.
Quote from: MU82 on March 02, 2026, 02:04:43 PMWhat if Tre and Caedin are the 14th and 15th men and never play, and if, after adding 2-3 good portal players, we have 8-9 solid to very good players for the rotation?
Why would we want the athletic department to spend its limited resources on 14th and 15th men who never play? I'd prefer they boosted the payroll for guys who do play, or may play an important role in the future.
Upperclassmen who don't play = waste of resources.
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on March 02, 2026, 02:15:42 PMFor that to happen it would mean five first year players are better than them, plus Josh Clark. I don't think that's very realistic or a sound strategy. And if that's possible, why keep them at all? I'd rather 14th and 15th be for redshirts and frosh.
Redshirt Tre and you both get what you want! Maybe as a 23yr old he'll be serviceable for 10mpg.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 02, 2026, 02:20:51 PMWhy would we want the athletic department to spend its limited resources on 14th and 15th men who never play? I'd prefer they boosted the payroll for guys who do play, or may play an important role in the future.
Upperclassmen who don't play = waste of resources.
I agree with this, and with what SOS said, too.
All I'm saying is that the mere presence on the 15-man roster of bad players next season won't automatically doom the team.
Matt Heldt was basically a wasted scholarship in 2018-19, but his presence as last non-walkon on the roster didn't hurt that team.
But yes, it definitely would be a waste of resources if incapable players are on next season's roster, so I hope they are elsewhere.
Quote from: MU82 on March 02, 2026, 02:04:43 PMWhat if Tre and Caedin are the 14th and 15th men and never play, and if, after adding 2-3 good portal players, we have 8-9 solid to very good players for the rotation?
What is the upside to doing this? Warm and fuzzies? I'd much rather bring in a lottery ticket late bloomer and leave a spot open for a midseason transfer than waste it on two guys that should have never made a high major roster.
These facts are not fun. >:(
Quote from: Tha Hound on March 02, 2026, 03:15:29 PMWhat is the upside to doing this? Warm and fuzzies? I'd much rather bring in a lottery ticket late bloomer and leave a spot open for a midseason transfer than waste it on two guys that should have never made a high major roster.
Josh Clark is a "late bloomer lottery ticket". Just now approaching the end of his redshirt Freshman year. You want to dump him now for a different 18-year-old Late bloomer lottery ticket?
Quote from: BrewCity83 on March 02, 2026, 04:12:07 PMJosh Clark is a "late bloomer lottery ticket". Just now approaching the end of his redshirt Freshman year. You want to dump him now for a different 18-year-old Late bloomer lottery ticket?
You know you're not obligated to carry three of those guys on a roster.
Quote from: BrewCity83 on March 02, 2026, 04:12:07 PMJosh Clark is a "late bloomer lottery ticket". Just now approaching the end of his redshirt Freshman year. You want to dump him now for a different 18-year-old Late bloomer lottery ticket?
The fact Clark can't even got on the court at this stage of the season isn't exactly a ringing endorsement for his progress after two years. It's not like he's being blocked by high-end talent in front of him.
But sure, you can keep one guy like that around. Don't see the point of having several of them.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 02, 2026, 04:29:19 PMThe fact Clark can't even got on the court at this stage of the season isn't exactly a ringing endorsement for his progress after two years. It's not like he's being blocked by high-end talent in front of him.
But sure, you can keep one guy like that around. Don't see the point of having several of them.
Good teams typically have a 8-man rotation (give or take). That leaves 7 roster spots. Maybe a couple of freshman aren't in the rotation. Maybe there's 1-2 redshirts. Maybe you leave a spot open for flexibility. That still leaves 3 scholarships.
So why is it again that you can only keep 1 guys like that around?
As long as it's not limiting the team in terms of NIL resources and flexibility, what's the problem?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 02, 2026, 04:41:11 PMAs long as it's not limiting the team in terms of NIL resources and flexibility, what's the problem?
What happens when a team loses 20 games in a season and those guys limit your roster flexibility? Potentially speaking from experience here
Quote from: BrewCity83 on March 02, 2026, 04:12:07 PMJosh Clark is a "late bloomer lottery ticket". Just now approaching the end of his redshirt Freshman year. You want to dump him now for a different 18-year-old Late bloomer lottery ticket?
I've always been amused when coaches take a 7 foot project because "you can't teach height." Nope, you can't but when you find a 7 footer in the late signing period that even local low majors aren't interested in maybe coaches need to realize that "height" is the only athletic quality they have. Mbao, anyone?
Quote from: panda on March 02, 2026, 04:45:52 PMWhat happens when a team loses 20 games in a season and those guys limit your roster flexibility? Potentially speaking from experience here
Unless you can see the future that hasn't happened yet.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 02, 2026, 04:41:11 PMGood teams typically have a 8-man rotation (give or take). That leaves 7 roster spots. Maybe a couple of freshman aren't in the rotation. Maybe there's 1-2 redshirts. Maybe you leave a spot open for flexibility. That still leaves 3 scholarships.
So why is it again that you can only keep 1 guys like that around?
As long as it's not limiting the team in terms of NIL resources and flexibility, what's the problem?
I'd quibble a bit with the 8-man rotation thing, depending how you define what's a rotation.
That said ... how does keeping three guys like that around
not limit the team in terms of NIL resources and flexibility?
Every dollar you give him is a dollar that can't be spent elsewhere. Every hour of coaching spent on him is an hour you can't spend developing someone else.
Just because the NCAA allows 15 scholarship players doesn't mean you have to have 15 scholarship players. It's a completely unnecessary thinning of resources ... not just money, but the time and energy of everyone in the program. It's increasing the burden on your coaches, your academic support, your strength and conditioning staff, etc. And because Marquette doesn't need a GM, it ultimately puts a greater burden on Shaka to oversee all that. And for what? The slim hope that one of those players might contribute 4-5 years down the road?
It's just a poor use of resources programwide.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 02, 2026, 04:58:42 PMI'd quibble a bit with the 8-man rotation thing, depending how you define what's a rotation.
That said ... how does keeping three guys like that around not limit the team in terms of NIL resources and flexibility?
Every dollar you give him is a dollar that can't be spent elsewhere. Every hour of coaching spent on him is an hour you can't spend developing someone else.
Just because the NCAA allows 15 scholarship players doesn't mean you have to have 15 scholarship players. It's a completely unnecessary thinning of resources ... not just money, but the time and energy of everyone in the program. It's increasing the burden on your coaches, your academic support, your strength and conditioning staff, etc. And because Marquette doesn't need a GM, it ultimately puts a greater burden on Shaka to oversee all that. And for what? The slim hope that one of those players might contribute 4-5 years down the road?
It's just a poor use of resources programwide.
First, my scenario includes keeping a scholarship open. I disagree that it has any kind of substantive impact on flexibility, especially if Shaka proves he is willing to move on from some guys.
I also didn't say you had to keep around 3 flyers. I just disagree that with a 15-man roster you have to limit yourself to 1. And if Shaka decided not to take any flyers, that would be fine with me, too.
From an NIL perspective, it's a fair point. However, I don't think it's unmanageable depending on how that structure is set up. Paying a couple of end-of-the-bench guys or flyers a lower amount doesn't have to come at the expense of guys who cost and deserve more.
If you really think time the staff has spent with Tre or Josh has adversely impacted the development of Royce or Nigel, that's just silly. I hardly think coaching and developing a roster of 15 is much different from doing so with a roster of 12 or 13.
And now you're getting into the burden from 2-3 extra players on support staff and Todd Smith? Come on, dude. You're getting ridiculous here.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 02, 2026, 04:52:34 PMUnless you can see the future that hasn't happened yet.
I could see the future last season when I called it out...
Quote from: Tha Hound on March 02, 2026, 03:15:29 PMWhat is the upside to doing this? Warm and fuzzies? I'd much rather bring in a lottery ticket late bloomer and leave a spot open for a midseason transfer than waste it on two guys that should have never made a high major roster.
Me too.
I didn't say there was an upside. I just don't think it signals doom, either.
There are Scoopers saying, "If so-and-so is on the roster next season, that neans we'll suck again." I simply don't think that's necessarily true.
Quote from: MU82 on March 02, 2026, 05:18:52 PMMe too.
I didn't say there was an upside. I just don't think it signals doom, either.
There are Scoopers saying, "If so-and-so is on the roster next season, that neans we'll suck again." I simply don't think that's necessarily true.
If you gave me truth serum, I may possibly agree with some here that keeping a one or maybe two of the guys currently on the chopping block won't torpedo the season next season.
However - following this catastrophe of a season, a firm reset is needed to signal the end to free rides for these passengers. Start fresh with a different direction to reset following this year.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 02, 2026, 05:12:44 PMIf you really think time the staff has spent with Tre or Josh has adversely impacted the development of Royce or Nigel, that's just silly. I hardly think coaching and developing a roster of 15 is much different from doing so with a roster of 12 or 13.
1. That's a red herring.
2. Yes, developing 15 players requires either more time and energy than 12, or a reduction in the amount of time/energy spent developing each individual player. This shouldn't even be controversial. Every additional employee I take on as a manager necessitates that I either spend less time and energy with one of my existing employees or I work more hours.
QuoteAnd now you're getting into the burden from 2-3 extra players on support staff and Todd Smith? Come on, dude. You're getting ridiculous here.
Why yes, I do believe developing and conducting an in-depth strength-and-conditioning program for 15 people requires more time and energy than for 12 people. Again, not controversial.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 02, 2026, 04:58:42 PMEvery dollar you give him is a dollar that can't be spent elsewhere.
#FakeNews #Lies
It's not as if we are "maxxed out" on what we can give "student"-athletes.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 02, 2026, 06:10:37 PM#FakeNews #Lies
It's not as if we are "maxxed out" on what we can give "student"-athletes.
The athletic department has unlimited financial resources?
Scoop is where I've learned that Marquette doesn't have enough money to compete in the NIL world but also has no ceiling on what it can spend.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 02, 2026, 06:25:07 PMThe athletic department has unlimited financial resources?
Scoop is where I've learned that Marquette doesn't have enough money to compete in the NIL world but also has no ceiling on what it can spend.
Is there a rule that every scholarship player is required to be paid NIL money?
Quote from: wadesworld on March 02, 2026, 07:07:54 PMIs there a rule that every scholarship player is required to be paid NIL money?
No.
But I imagine that quality players won't come to Marquette without it. And, IMO, if a player isn't capable of getting NIL money somewhere, he's probably not worth a spot on the roster. Even mid-major kids are getting paid.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 02, 2026, 07:20:28 PMNo.
But I imagine that quality players won't come to Marquette without it. And, IMO, if a player isn't capable of getting NIL money somewhere, he's probably not worth a spot on the roster. Even mid-major kids are getting paid.
So keeping guys like Hamilton or Tre next year wouldn't automatically prevent Marquette from having enough money to attract transfers from coming in like you seem to have been constantly suggesting?
Quote from: wadesworld on March 02, 2026, 07:24:02 PMSo keeping guys like Hamilton or Tre next year wouldn't automatically prevent Marquette from having enough money to attract transfers from coming in like you seem to have been constantly suggesting?
You nailed it. No idea why some people think there is an obligation to pay guys like Tre and Caedin NIL dollars. I don't have a problem with Tre being on the roster next year, but its at zero NIL dollars. If he wants to explore options elsewhere to maximize earnings, so be it.
My feeling is 2 good portal pick ups on complementary positions, one being a big, and the other a versatile scoring guard and we are good.
Shaka is playing the long game.
13,14, and 15 will be redshirts—freshmen most likely.
Hopefully next season we have:
1. Transfer big
2. Sheek
3. Josh
No need for Caedin. I can live with Tre as #12.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 02, 2026, 07:24:02 PMSo keeping guys like Hamilton or Tre next year wouldn't automatically prevent Marquette from having enough money to attract transfers from coming in like you seem to have been constantly suggesting?
Are you suggesting Shaka is going to approach them with an offer akin to "You can stay, but your pay is being reduced to $0."
That seems the equivalent of getting cut - perhaps even worse - and they'd be unlikely to stay under those circumstances.
Even then, it could prevent the kind of changes necessary because those are roster spots that may be needed. Unless you're thinking Zaide's spot and maybe SJ's are definitely enough? I would disagree with that.
1/3 of the roster next year hasn't played a minute of college basketball. If you want to have low expectations for players, have it for them. I don't know why anyone should just shrug off having two players (three if including Clark, since it's his second year) taking up roster spots when they've proven they don't provide any on court value.
Ben and Chase have obviously disappointed, but they're still getting minutes for a reason. The cumulative talent on this team is the problem. The worst MU team in decades shouldn't be dragging along dead weight into the next season.
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on March 02, 2026, 08:42:09 PM1/3 of the roster next year hasn't played a minute of college basketball. If you want to have low expectations for players, have it for them. I don't know why anyone should just shrug off having two players (three if including Clark, since it's his second year) taking up roster spots when they've proven they don't provide any on court value.
Ben and Chase have obviously disappointed, but they're still getting minutes for a reason. The cumulative talent on this team is the problem. The worst MU team in decades shouldn't be dragging along dead weight into the next season.
This. The fact that Chase Ross and Ben Gold play as much as they do indicates how low the talent level is at this point. Here's a breakdown:
Must Keep:James, Jr
Prefer to Keep:Parham
Stevens
Owens
Cut to Create Space:Sean Jones
With the Lowery and Sean Jones spots, you got 2 portal fills. If MU finds a better 3rd or 4th, then Norman and Hamilton get buzzed. MU's advantages includes an early start on the process, plenty of playing time to offer, cash, and good pipeline to the NBA.
Quote from: Warrior of Law on March 02, 2026, 09:12:21 PMThis. The fact that Chase Ross and Ben Gold play as much as they do indicates how low the talent level is at this point. Here's a breakdown:
Must Keep:
James, Jr
Prefer to Keep:
Parham
Stevens
Owens
Cut to Create Space:
Sean Jones
With the Lowery and Sean Jones spots, you got 2 portal fills. If MU finds a better 3rd or 4th, then Norman and Hamilton get buzzed. MU's advantages includes an early start on the process, plenty of playing time to offer, cash, and good pipeline to the NBA.
Likely a bubble team at best if they add just 2 players.
They need 2 major impact players and probably 1 or 2 more rotational players.
Phillips- not cutting it. Maybe could in the future.
Hamilton- not cutting it. Never will cut it.
Norman- not cutting it. Never will cut it.
Clark- not cutting it. Major questions on if he ever can.
Miletic- can't rely on unproven guy.
Nash- can't rely on unproven guy.
Jones- not cutting it.
I want Hamilton, Clark, Tre and SJ gone next year because 1) if I see them again they'll remind me of the misery of this year, 2) they will contribute nothing and only dilute our limited resources and 3) none of them belong on a major conference conference D1 team.
Quote from: Superfan on March 02, 2026, 10:19:27 PMI want Hamilton, Clark, Tre and SJ gone next year because 1) if I see them again they'll remind me of the misery of this year, 2) they will contribute nothing and only dilute our limited resources and 3) none of them belong on a major conference conference D1 team.
Sean played 9 minutes in each of the Big East Championship Tournament games as a Freshman, so I sort of disagree there. Sean can be a backup point guard for a good team, I just don't see why he would want to at this point.
But if a 5th year player wants to stay to play 8-10 minutes a game there would be no issue with that.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 02, 2026, 11:47:02 PMSean played 9 minutes in each of the Big East Championship Tournament games as a Freshman, so I sort of disagree there.
Wth? He had an ORtg of 45, efg% of 20.0%, 32% to rate, didn't get to the line, only 7% assist rate in those BET tourney games.
If we're giving out 2026-27 PT because of appearances in games, bring everyone back. smh
Sean Jones was below average when healthy. He can finish up at a Horizon League school and have something to show for it.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 03, 2026, 05:28:40 AMWith? He had an ORtg of 45, efg% of 20.0%, 32% to rate, didn't get to the line, only 7% assist rate in those BET tourney.
If we're giving out 2026-27 PT because of appearances in games, bring everyone back. smh
It's a backup PG role. I'd rather have a 5th year player getting PT than a Freshman. We could do a lot worse than Sean playing for 8 minutes behind Nigel.
The bigger concern is our center and wing scorer. We need major upgrades there. Like locked and loaded Big East starter caliber.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 02, 2026, 11:47:02 PMSean played 9 minutes in each of the Big East Championship Tournament games as a Freshman, so I sort of disagree there. Sean can be a backup point guard for a good team, I just don't see why he would want to at this point.
But if a 5th year player wants to stay to play 8-10 minutes a game there would be no issue with that.
Sean is 100% gone and made his intentions known to Shaka very early after being benched.
Quote from: Tha Hound on March 02, 2026, 03:15:29 PMWhat is the upside to doing this? Warm and fuzzies? I'd much rather bring in a lottery ticket late bloomer and leave a spot open for a midseason transfer than waste it on two guys that should have never made a high major roster.
We are not a high major anymore.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 03, 2026, 07:07:09 AMIt's a backup PG role. I'd rather have a 5th year player getting PT than a Freshman.
This is an interesting take, given that this team's best player right now is a freshman point guard.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 03, 2026, 10:19:43 AMWe are not a high major anymore.
Oh just shut up...good lord you are so miserable.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 02, 2026, 08:19:53 PMAre you suggesting Shaka is going to approach them with an offer akin to "You can stay, but your pay is being reduced to $0."
That seems the equivalent of getting cut - perhaps even worse - and they'd be unlikely to stay under those circumstances.
Even then, it could prevent the kind of changes necessary because those are roster spots that may be needed. Unless you're thinking Zaide's spot and maybe SJ's are definitely enough? I would disagree with that.
I'm talking more in general of having a 14th and 15th roster spot being used on somebody who probably never contributes to on court production in Big East games. Whether that's Caedin next year after maybe two of Sean/Tre/Josh leave and we fill the 3 open spots with BE starting/rotational players, or 2 years from now taking another shot on a 7 footer with no high or mid major interest like Josh and seeing if he can develop while being an end of bench guy.
The claim here is that Caedin isn't a D1 player. So if Shaka told him his options are either keep his scholarship, get his degree at Marquette, but he can't offer him any NIL money, or Shaka can help him find the best landing spot possible for him. If those options are play D2 basketball where he'll get no NIL money or be a bench EGB and be on scholarship but get no NIL money, I don't think having a guy like Caedin as the 15th scholarship player getting no NIL money will ruin Marquette's season next year (again, this is with the assumption that a couple other players are gone and Shaka adds 3 high level transfers).
Quote from: Pakuni on March 03, 2026, 10:24:16 AMThis is an interesting take, given that this team's best player right now is a freshman point guard.
Nigel is a unicorn in that regard.
I'd rather have a 5th year guy running the show for very limited minutes than another guy thrown into the fire. At the end of the day it isn't a huge deal as our greater concerns are still the center and wing scorer.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 03, 2026, 10:55:11 AMNigel is a unicorn in that regard.
I'd rather have a 5th year guy running the show for very limited minutes than another guy thrown into the fire. At the end of the day it isn't a huge deal as our greater concerns are still the center and wing scorer.
Is he, though?
Tony Miller was a stud as a freshman. Dominic James was a stud as a freshman. I have little doubt Travis Diener could have started, and was still an elite backup as a freshman. Aaron Hutchins was a capable backup to Tony Miller his freshman year.
Seems we've had plenty of unicorns around these parts.
Maybe the most important thing is the quality of the player, not how many years he's been in college.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 03, 2026, 11:04:42 AMIs he, though?
Tony Miller was a stud as a freshman. Dominic James was a stud as a freshman. I have little doubt Travis Diener could have started, and was still an elite backup as a freshman. Aaron Hutchins was a capable backup to Tony Miller his freshman year.
Seems we've had plenty of unicorns around these parts.
Maybe the most important thing is the quality of the player, not how many years he's been in college.
Ahem. Markus.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 03, 2026, 11:17:58 AMAhem. Markus.
I thought of him, but he really wasn't running the point, at least not his first year.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 03, 2026, 11:29:34 AMI thought of him, but he really wasn't running the point, at least not his first year.
Oh yeah, I forgot. Not a true point guard. Lol. So stupid.
Shame on the Bob Cousy Award folks for naming him one of the nation's top point guards. Top assist rate of regulars on the team as a frosh.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 03, 2026, 11:33:42 AMOh yeah, I forgot. Not a true point guard. Lol. So stupid.
I didn't say this.
QuoteShame on the Bob Cousy Award folks for naming him one of the nation's top point guards.
His junior year.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 03, 2026, 11:41:04 AMI didn't say this.
Ehh, you said AT LEAST this, but maybe more.
Don't feel alone. Lots of you weirdos who hate to acknowledge Markus played point at all.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 03, 2026, 12:05:35 PMEhh, you said AT LEAST this, but maybe more.
Don't feel alone. Lots of you weirdos who hate to acknowledge Markus played point at all.
I mean, I can find multiple instances in the archives of me referring to Markus as a point guard.
Like here, when someone questioned why Wojo didn't recruit point guards.
Quote from: bilsu on December 05, 2017, 04:35:09 PM
What I find ironic is Wojo, who was a point guard, has trouble recruiting point guards.
Wojo's first recruiting class included 4-star PG Traci Carter.
Wojo's second recruiting class included 4-star PG Markus Howard.https://www.muscoop.com/index.php?topic=54971.msg967771#msg967771
Or here, when someone said Markus was a great player, but awful point guard:
Quote from: #UnleashKolek on December 18, 2021, 03:37:58 PM
2. Markus was a great player, Markus was an absolutely awful pg. You cam be both.
2. This makes no sense. What you're really trying to say is that Markus wasn't a certain type of narrowly defined point guard. Neither was Iverson. But he played the point.https://www.muscoop.com/index.php?topic=62628.msg1397341#msg1397341
OK. I partially forgive you.
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 03, 2026, 12:38:26 PMOK. I partially forgive you.
;D
Wait! What about "Lenten prayers"? The season of repentance and forgiveness? What would Jesus do?
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on March 03, 2026, 01:18:00 PM;D Wait! What about "Lenten prayers"? The season of repentance and forgiveness? What would Jesus do?
"No angel on my shoulder, just two devils
Feeding chemicals, pushing blood past legal levels"
In the last 4 games....
Marquette has played their 4th worst game of the season againist a bad Xavier team giving up 1.331 PPP.
And then Marquette played their 2nd worst game of the season againist Depaul scoring 0.806 ppp.
This roster needs to be nuked.
Quote from: jfp61 on March 03, 2026, 01:51:53 PMIn the last 4 games....
Marquette has played their 4th worst game of the season againist a bad Xavier team giving up 1.331 PPP.
And then Marquette played their 2nd worst game of the season againist Depaul scoring 0.806 ppp.
This roster needs to be nuked.
So ... not a bubble team?
Quote from: Pakuni on March 02, 2026, 05:34:50 PM1. That's a red herring.
2. Yes, developing 15 players requires either more time and energy than 12, or a reduction in the amount of time/energy spent developing each individual player. This shouldn't even be controversial. Every additional employee I take on as a manager necessitates that I either spend less time and energy with one of my existing employees or I work more hours.
Why yes, I do believe developing and conducting an in-depth strength-and-conditioning program for 15 people requires more time and energy than for 12 people. Again, not controversial.
You used the word "burden". 2-3 additional players hardly creates a burden on the academic, strength & conditioning, and coaching staffs with the right planning in place.
Do you honestly believe the presence of Hamilton and Tre have adversely impacted Nigel and Royce's growth on the court and in the weight room, for example?
Additionally, it all depends on individual context and player needs. You used a real-life managerial example. I've had instances where a larger team was easier and more efficient to manage than a smaller team. There are no absolutes.
This is high-level basketball. Marquette can accommodate 13-15 scholarship players without it having an adverse impact on winning.
Quote from: jfp61 on March 03, 2026, 01:51:53 PMIn the last 4 games....
Marquette has played their 4th worst game of the season againist a bad Xavier team giving up 1.331 PPP.
And then Marquette played their 2nd worst game of the season againist Depaul scoring 0.806 ppp.
This roster needs to be nuked.
That Xavier game wasn't even in the top 5 bad games this season.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 03, 2026, 02:46:47 PMYou used the word "burden". 2-3 additional players hardly creates a burden on the academic, strength & conditioning, and coaching staffs with the right planning in place. .
I didn't say creates a burden. I said increases the burden.
burden
noun
1
a: something that is carried : load
b:
duty, responsibilityhttps://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/burden
Quote from: Pakuni on March 03, 2026, 03:54:15 PMburden
noun
1
a: something that is carried : load
b: duty, responsibility
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/burden
::)
bur-den
noun
1) a heavy load that you carry
2) something difficult or unpleasant that you have to deal with or worry about https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/burden
Burden in and of itself has a negative connotation. There is no reason to think managing a roster of 12 kids is a "burden" to begin with. I guarantee Shaka and Todd Smith don't look at it that way. I doubt the academic staff does, either.
You've become insufferable lately.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 03, 2026, 04:08:04 PM::)
bur-den
noun
1) a heavy load that you carry
2) something difficult or unpleasant that you have to deal with or worry about
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/burden
Burden in and of itself has a negative connotation. There is no reason to think managing a roster of 12 kids is a "burden" to begin with. I guarantee Shaka and Todd Smith don't look at it that way. I doubt the academic staff does, either.
You've become insufferable lately.
OK.
61 - but ... wait ... we have ( or had ) posters here say they need a player or two ! MU is almost a bubble team ...lol.
You're right ... this roster is AWFUL... they need 3 or 4 players.
But don't hold your breath on coach
Hubris
Quote from: Pakuni on March 02, 2026, 02:20:51 PMWhy would we want the athletic department to spend its limited resources on 14th and 15th men who never play? I'd prefer they boosted the payroll for guys who do play, or may play an important role in the future.
Upperclassmen who don't play = waste of resources.
Practice is highly overrated.
Why not have 8 or 10 scholarship players?
Marquette is a relatively small school, let's admit that.
I'd rather have 8 players than 15 so-so players.
Good players don't need to practice, they need to play.
Quote from: vogue65 on March 03, 2026, 05:37:52 PMPractice is highly overrated.
Mr. Iverson, welcome to MUScoop. I was a huge fan of yours on the Sixers. Killer crossover!
Quote from: BM1090 on March 03, 2026, 03:46:14 PMThat Xavier game wasn't even in the top 5 bad games this season.
Bartorvik's worst games of the year by game score.
@ Creighton (12th percentile)
Depaul (16th percentile)
Maryland (34th percentile)
@ Xavier (38th percentile)
Indiana (39th percentile)
Dayton (42nd percentile)
Valparaiso (47th percentile)
Georgetown (47th percentile)
@ Purdue (48th percentile)
That's 9 Sub 50th percentile games from Marquette this year.
Shaka had 5 in the previous 3 seasons.
Quote from: jfp61 on March 04, 2026, 10:27:12 AMBartorvik's worst games of the year by game score.
@ Creighton (12th percentile)
Depaul (16th percentile)
Maryland (34th percentile)
@ Xavier (38th percentile)
Indiana (39th percentile)
Dayton (42nd percentile)
Valparaiso (47th percentile)
Georgetown (47th percentile)
@ Purdue (48th percentile)
That's 9 Sub 50th percentile games from Marquette this year.
Shaka had 5 in the previous 3 seasons.
Fair. And I like game score as a metric so I won't push back too much. Xavier was really just a terrible first ten minutes when they went on a heater and we didn't respond. Watching the games, Indiana, Dayton, and Valpo all struck me as worse performances.
Quote from: BrewCity83 on March 02, 2026, 04:12:07 PMJosh Clark is a "late bloomer lottery ticket". Just now approaching the end of his redshirt Freshman year. You want to dump him now for a different 18-year-old Late bloomer lottery ticket?
Did I say anything about Josh Clark? The quote tweet was about Tre and Caedin. However, even if it were about Josh, yes, I would be in favor of dumping him for somenoe else. Multiple years in the program now and he can't get any minutes. It's over for him.