https://x.com/bensteelemjs/status/2029940641707278661?s=46
Shaka shares his thoughts on a GM. Time will tell but this is troubling in my eyes.
I'm guessing I'll be in the minority here, but this doesn't bother me at all.
Shaka is a good coach and knows how to run a team. If they already have coaches doing everything a GM does, then what is the point of hiring a GM just to create a title?
As long as they can show the ability to add strong talent from the portal like they did in their one attempt in the past, this just does not move me in a negative way at all.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 06, 2026, 11:43:21 AMI'm guessing I'll be in the minority here, but this doesn't bother me at all.
Shaka is a good coach and knows how to run a team. If they already have coaches doing everything a GM does, then what is the point of hiring a GM just to create a title?
As long as they can show the ability to add strong talent from the portal like they did in their one attempt in the past, this just does not move me in a negative way at all.
Would we be in the position we're in now if he knew how to run a team/program?
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 11:46:51 AMWould we be in the position we're in now if he knew how to run a team/program?
Yes, the coach who has been to a Final Four and has a 381-202 record in his career, including a 109-60 record at Marquette, doesn't know how to run a team/program.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 11:26:53 AMhttps://x.com/bensteelemjs/status/2029940641707278661?s=46
Shaka shares his thoughts on a GM. Time will tell but this is troubling in my eyes.
Heads should ROLL! Starting with the AD!
I think the role of a dedicated GM can be filled by committee if you have competent assistants who are directed to scout transfers and recruit in the right ways.
The reason it would be concerning to me is the multi-year dip in recruiting success MU has had. If the same guys are making mistakes in recruiting/developing, why should we be optimistic with them attacking the portal?
But, they've also had recent recruiting wins like Nigel, Adrien, Royce and even DO. So, maybe they'll make the right portal adds and this season will be an ugly, horrible, preventable, disgusting blip.
Translation..........not troubling at all
"A rose by any other name would smell as sweet"
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 11:46:51 AMWould we be in the position we're in now if he knew how to run a team/program?
What position? Having one of the most sought after players in the country on our roster for possibly 3 more seasons?
Shaka hasn't missed the NCAAs in Milwaukee, until probably next week. Being willing to use the transfer portal is a bigger development than adding a GM would ever be. We are fine.
Not everything needs to be a house fire.
Hurley has a GM.....Who runs the show? No success there....
Next.....
Quote from: wadesworld on March 06, 2026, 11:48:44 AMYes, the coach who has been to a Final Four and has a 381-202 record in his career, including a 109-60 record at Marquette, doesn't know how to run a team/program.
Times they are a changin wadesey
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 06, 2026, 12:14:50 PMWhat position? Having one of the most sought after players in the country on our roster for possibly 3 more seasons?
Shaka hasn't missed the NCAAs in Milwaukee, until probably next week. Being willing to use the transfer portal is a bigger development than adding a GM would ever be. We are fine.
Not everything needs to be a house fire.
What position are we in? We're experiencing our worst season in years and have 3 players going into next season in the roster now who are big east ready.
I thought this was encouraging at least:
"Certainly there's been some work done on the front end of communicating with different people about what might be available," Smart said. "So we look at what our needs are and, as of now, what our needs might be. Then you kind of wait and see what comes out of that."
I don't really know what a GM does in college basketball so not much opinion there, but MU should re-evaluate their entire staff. Probably wouldn't hurt to replace at least one assistant. Also, Broeker seems like he's in way over his head.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 12:32:48 PMTimes they are a changin wadesey
Yes, times are changing. These days, fans only have the ability to look back within 1 year and have zero patience. Well, that and they cherry pick successful examples that support their position while ignoring failures.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 12:35:21 PMWhat position are we in? We're experiencing our worst season in years and have 3 players going into next season in the roster now who are big east ready.
Well sure, but that has more to do with the staffs willingness to stick with retention and avoid the portal.
They've already addressed the fact that they are adapting. A GM wasn't having a better portal than Kolek, OMax, Morsell, Kuath. Sorry. They weren't.
This staff can succeed without a GM. If they show that they somehow cannot keep up in the portal, I'll join your side. We will be fine so long as we use the portal.
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 06, 2026, 12:38:39 PMI thought this was encouraging at least:
"Certainly there's been some work done on the front end of communicating with different people about what might be available," Smart said. "So we look at what our needs are and, as of now, what our needs might be. Then you kind of wait and see what comes out of that."
I don't really know what a GM does in college basketball so not much opinion there, but MU should re-evaluate their entire staff. Probably wouldn't hurt to replace at least one assistant. Also, Broeker seems like he's in way over his head.
Yes, theyve been working on portal additions for a few months now.
This may become an issue. It might not become an issue. Time will tell.
That said, the last time Shaka decided to zig when everyone else started zagging, the results weren't so great.
Sometimes collective wisdom is collective wisdom for a reason.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 06, 2026, 12:41:44 PMWell sure, but that has more to do with the staffs willingness to stick with retention and avoid the portal.
They've already addressed the fact that they are adapting. A GM wasn't having a better portal than Kolek, OMax, Morsell, Kuath. Sorry. They weren't.
This staff can succeed without a GM. If they show that they somehow cannot keep up in the portal, I'll join your side. We will be fine so long as we use the portal.
We haven't kept up with the portal and it landed us in this position. I'll eat crow if we make necessary additions this year and in perpetuity moving forward.
I think GMs are gaining popularity/necessity due to time constraints of the coaching staffs and has nothing to due with the competency of the HC the GMs work for.
The scouting staffs are growing into double digits and HCs don't posses the bandwidth to manage them and the coaches and players, and fulfill the PR aspects of the job.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 06, 2026, 12:41:44 PMWell sure, but that has more to do with the staffs willingness to stick with retention and avoid the portal.
They've already addressed the fact that they are adapting. A GM wasn't having a better portal than Kolek, OMax, Morsell, Kuath. Sorry. They weren't.
This staff can succeed without a GM. If they show that they somehow cannot keep up in the portal, I'll join your side. We will be fine so long as we use the portal.
Yup. I think it's completely fair to be very critical of Shaka about how this year went while also thinking it's completely fair to say, "Let's see how Shaka does using the portal to go along with the young players he has brought in." Next month is gonna tell a lot, and next season obviously is gonna tell a lot more.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 11:46:51 AMWould we be in the position we're in now if he knew how to run a team/program?
::)
If the current staff has the requisite bandwidth and skill to successfully navigate the portal and bring the right players to Marquette, a GM isn't needed.
We'll see how this offseason goes but I don't see a big reason for concern at the moment. Some people just like looking for stuff to be worried about.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 12:35:21 PMWhat position are we in? We're experiencing our worst season in years and have 3 players going into next season in the roster now who are big east ready.
Not just Big East ready. Potential first (James), second (Parham), and third (Stevens) All-Big East team candidates.
That's a good start with the development of others, freshmen, RS freshmen and portal players who will surround them.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 06, 2026, 12:52:07 PMI think GMs are gaining popularity/necessity due to time constraints of the coaching staffs and has nothing to due with the competency of the HC the GMs work for.
The scouting staffs are growing into double digits and HCs don't posses the bandwidth to manage them and the coaches and players, and fulfill the PR aspects of the job.
Marquette has a head coach, five assistants, a Director of Program Development and a Director of Video & Analytics.
As long as someone, or a couple people, are doing "GM duties" as part of their role, they have it covered. They don't really need someone with a "GM" title.
So maybe let's see how it goes without getting all negative.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2026, 12:55:58 PM::)
Would a coach with a modern approach to roster building lead us to a 20 loss season this year?
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 12:50:17 PMWe haven't kept up with the portal and it landed us in this position. I'll eat crow if we make necessary additions this year and in perpetuity moving forward.
As will I if we do not.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 12:50:17 PMWe haven't kept up with the portal and it landed us in this position. I'll eat crow if we make necessary additions this year and in perpetuity moving forward.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 06, 2026, 01:09:28 PMAs will I if we do not.
I will declare I was right all along no matter the outcome.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 06, 2026, 01:04:42 PMMarquette has a head coach, five assistants, a Director of Program Development and a Director of Video & Analytics.
As long as someone, or a couple people, are doing "GM duties" as part of their role, they have it covered. They don't really need someone with a "GM" title.
So maybe let's see how it goes without getting all negative.
That's fair. My point was that a program having a GM has nothing to due with the competency of the HC. Shaka has the ability to due every job at MU better than anyone on the staff, he just doesn't have the time to do every job.
As I mentioned previously, Utah has 9 US college scouts in addition to the HS and international scouts. Maybe they are an anomaly, but a staff like that can't all report to the HC.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 06, 2026, 01:14:30 PMThat's fair. My point was that a program having a GM has nothing to due with the competency of the HC. Shaka has the ability to due every job at MU better than anyone on the staff, he just doesn't have the time to do every job.
As I mentioned previously, Utah has 9 US college scouts in addition to the HS and international scouts. Maybe they are an anomaly, but a staff like that can't all report to the HC.
I have no idea if that is a good use of resources or not though. Paying a bunch of scouts may be way less effective than putting that money toward NIL.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on March 06, 2026, 01:01:34 PMNot just Big East ready. Potential first (James), second (Parham), and third (Stevens) All-Big East team candidates.
That's a good start with the development of others, freshmen, RS freshmen and portal players who will surround them.
Yes - and then beyond those 3 are freshmen who've never played a college basketball game and others who have and are not ready for the bright lights. Lots of big holes to fill.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 06, 2026, 01:13:45 PMI will declare I was right all along no matter the outcome.
Lol
Quote from: The Sultan on March 06, 2026, 01:13:45 PMI will declare I was right all along no matter the outcome.
It will be fun to see them hold each other accountable for the rest of time......
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 06, 2026, 12:14:50 PMWhat position? Having one of the most sought after players in the country on our roster for possibly 3 more seasons?
Shaka hasn't missed the NCAAs in Milwaukee, until probably next week. Being willing to use the transfer portal is a bigger development than adding a GM would ever be. We are fine.
Not everything needs to be a house fire.
What position? Bottom of BEast, 20 loss season, worst season in 60 years, no invite to the dance. Yeah-that position.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 06, 2026, 01:13:45 PMI will declare I was right all along no matter the outcome.
The Sprit Shop now offers, alongside a ton of RGV gear, a
Sultan Was Right About Everything cap in a distinctive shade of red. Order yours
now before there is a run on the inventory!
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 01:05:58 PMWould a coach with a modern approach to roster building lead us to a 20 loss season this year?
Shaka tried something different. It worked really well until it didn't. Instead of continuing down that path the program is pivoting to using the portal.
Personally, I'll put my faith in his entire track record of winning as opposed to one horrendous season.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 06, 2026, 01:30:40 PMWhat position? Bottom of BEast, 20 loss season, worst season in 60 years, no invite to the dance. Yeah-that position.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 link=msg=1797972
quote author=GoldenEagles03 link=msg=1797972 date=1772822504]
Well sure, but that has more to do with the staffs willingness to stick with retention and avoid the portal.
They've already addressed the fact that they are adapting. A GM wasn't having a better portal than Kolek, OMax, Morsell, Kuath. Sorry. They weren't.
This staff can succeed without a GM. If they show that they somehow cannot keep up in the portal, I'll join your side. We will be fine so long as we use the portal.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2026, 01:37:12 PMShaka tried something different. It worked really well until it didn't. Instead of continuing down that path the program is pivoting to using the portal.
Personally, I'll put my faith in his entire track record of winning as opposed to one horrendous season.
Taking experienced transfers made his system work.
Not hoping Caedin Hamilton and tre Norman would develop.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 06, 2026, 01:13:45 PMI will declare I was right all along no matter the outcome.
Why the hate all the time?
I don't care if I'm right or wrong. None of that matters to me. I just want Marquette to be good and I think Shaka and staff are plenty capable of doing that as is.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2026, 01:37:12 PMShaka tried something different. It worked really well until it didn't. Instead of continuing down that path the program is pivoting to using the portal.
Personally, I'll put my faith in his entire track record of winning as opposed to one horrendous season.
When did it work really well? When he was winning with mostly transfers and Wojo recruits?
I have no doubt he'll enact a course correction, and am on board with giving him every opportunity to do that, but it wouldn't be accurate to suggest that what he tried this year is the same thing as what he did in previous seasons.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2026, 01:37:12 PMShaka tried something different. It worked really well until it didn't. Instead of continuing down that path the program is pivoting to using the portal.
Personally, I'll put my faith in his entire track record of winning as opposed to one horrendous season.
What if the loss was the win? What if everything happened exactly as it had to for MU to be a force again in the near future?
As much as I like and feel terrible for SJ, his injury made Nigel's ascension to starting PG possible. Had Zaide not had his moment of discontent, Adrian would not have gotten the PT and his emergence would've been delayed. Had there not been a dearth of options or talent on the interior, Royce wouldn't have changed up his game to become the inside force he has always been capable of being. DO is on the precipice and looks poised to break out next season.
Ladies and gentlemen, we are not that far away, and I for one think Shaka is managing the season well, all things considered. If a couple things went the other way and we were .500 right now, but with less of a vision on the emergence NJ,AS,and RP, would that be so much better?
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 01:42:47 PMTaking experienced transfers made his system work.
Not hoping Caedin Hamilton and tre Norman would develop.
You mean someone like OMax, who transferred after averaging 10 MPG and 2.5 PPG his freshman year?
Quote from: Pakuni on March 06, 2026, 01:53:54 PMWhen did it work really well? When he was winning with mostly transfers and Wojo recruits?
I have no doubt he'll enact a course correction, and am on board with giving him every opportunity to do that, but it wouldn't be accurate to suggest that what he tried this year is the same thing as what he did in previous seasons.
Aside from his first year, when he had to bring in transfers to literally field a team, it is what he did. He retained and developed. To say otherwise is disingenuous.
Quote from: GoFastAndWin on March 06, 2026, 01:55:30 PMWhat if the loss was the win? What if everything happened exactly as it had to for MU to be a force again in the near future?
As much as I like and feel terrible for SJ, his injury made Nigel's ascension to starting PG possible. Had Zaide not had his moment of discontent, Adrian would not have gotten the PT and his emergence would've been delayed. Had there not been a dearth of options or talent on the interior, Royce wouldn't have changed up his game to become the inside force he has always been capable of being. DO is on the precipice and looks poised to break out next season.
Ladies and gentlemen, we are not that far away, and I for one think Shaka is managing the season well, all things considered. If a couple things went the other way and we were .500 right now, but with less of a vision on the emergence NJ,AS,and RP, would that be so much better?
I posted something like this recently. This season has been absolutely brutal, but it might have been what was necessary to push the program forward in the long run.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2026, 02:01:03 PMYou mean someone like OMax, who transferred after averaging 10 MPG and 2.5 PPG his freshman year?
He was a recognized sought after high potential player.
I am talking about Kuath, morsell and kolek. Three proven players which took a team in turmoil and maintained tournament status.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2026, 02:04:58 PMI posted something like this recently. This season has been absolutely brutal, but it might have been what was necessary to push the program forward in the long run.
James and parham very easily would've played over jones (if healthy) and Hamilton (lol).
Steven's was already playing around 20 or so minutes before Lowry left.
Nothing revolutionary here
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 02:12:08 PMJames and parham very easily would've played over jones (if healthy) and Hamilton (lol).
Steven's was already playing around 20 or so minutes before Lowry left.
Nothing revolutionary here
You're completely missing the point, which is not surprising.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2026, 02:21:55 PMYou're completely missing the point, which is not surprising.
What's the point then? Several talented players play 95% of the minutes because no one else on the team has a pulse?
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 02:25:09 PMWhat's the point then? Several talented players play 95% of the minutes because no one else on the team has a pulse?
The point is we're likely better off going forward because hitting rock bottom forced a change in approach.
If this turned out to be a bubble team, the season would have been more enjoyable but it likely would have prolonged the previous roster building philosophy.
Panda is right. MU now plays 5 or 6 competent players ( including Chase and
Ben ).
So... MU has 3 guys to count on next year.
DO ? Meh. Hasn't done shyte ...
They need 3 or 4 top level portal players, and one or two of the redshirts to be ready to play to get back to the top of BE.
We'll see.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 01:05:58 PMWould a coach with a modern approach to roster building lead us to a 20 loss season this year?
You're right, no coach who has built their roster with transfers has had bad seasons since NIL and the portal have come around.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 06, 2026, 01:14:30 PMThat's fair. My point was that a program having a GM has nothing to due with the competency of the HC. Shaka has the ability to due every job at MU better than anyone on the staff, he just doesn't have the time to do every job.
As I mentioned previously, Utah has 9 US college scouts in addition to the HS and international scouts. Maybe they are an anomaly, but a staff like that can't all report to the HC.
We should definitely try to be more like 10-20 Utah!
Quote from: wadesworld on March 06, 2026, 02:56:00 PMYou're right, no coach who has built their roster with transfers has had bad seasons since NIL and the portal have come around.
Do we do better or worse than this season if we have competent players in place of Caedin Hamilton, Josh Clark, Tre Norman and Sean Jones?
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 03:28:19 PMDo we do better or worse than this season if we have competent players in place of Caedin Hamilton, Josh Clark, Tre Norman and Sean Jones?
Which is a completely different question.
But yeah, if we have better players in place of the players on our roster, we probably do better. Revolutionary stuff.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 06, 2026, 03:12:17 PMWe should definitely try to be more like 10-20 Utah!
LOL. Good observation. Not really related to my point, but valid.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 02:09:54 PMHe was a recognized sought after high potential player.
I am talking about Kuath, morsell and kolek. Three proven players which took a team in turmoil and maintained tournament status.
I get Kolek was proven in the A10 but you're just as likely to get Chartouney as you are Kolek from the A10 Freshman of the year. And after his first year it seemed more like we were going to get Chartouney who occasional made a sick nba pass.
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 06, 2026, 03:40:14 PMI get Kolek was proven in the A10 but you're just as likely to get Chartouney as you are Kolek from the A10 Freshman of the year. And after his first year it seemed more like we were going to get Chartouney who occasional made a sick nba pass.
Yeah, not falling into that A 10 freshman player of the year thinking again. I used that logic a few months ago and I think you called me out on Chartouney back then.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 06, 2026, 03:33:28 PMWhich is a completely different question.
But yeah, if we have better players in place of the players on our roster, we probably do better. Revolutionary stuff.
Initial query - Would a coach with a modern approach to roster building lead us to a 20 loss season this year?
Your illogical response - You're right, no coach who has built their roster with transfers has had bad seasons since NIL and the portal have come around.
It's a challenge to debate with you because of such hyperbolic responses. We're in this position now because Shaka carried deadweight for far too long before cutting bait. That isn't some blessing in disguise. It's a major red flag that I hope is rectified this off season. I would love to be proved wrong but I have every right to be concerned given how Shaka torpedoed this program by his own stubbornness.
Quote from: Galway Eagle on March 06, 2026, 03:40:14 PMI get Kolek was proven in the A10 but you're just as likely to get Chartouney as you are Kolek from the A10 Freshman of the year. And after his first year it seemed more like we were going to get Chartouney who occasional made a sick nba pass.
Fake news #lies
I loved kolek from day one and was one of the only ones who lauded his floor game rather than the other noobs who assumed he was just a spot up shooter. He was a legit pick up and no one should ever dismiss picking up a conference freshman of the year.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 03:51:02 PMFake news #lies
I loved kolek from day one and was one of the only ones who lauded his floor game rather than the other noobs who assumed he was just a spot up shooter. He was a legit pick up and no one should ever dismiss picking up a conference freshman of the year.
Yeah, Kolek was quite good his first season at MU. He just had an inconsistent 3 point shot which he corrected over the summer before his junior season.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 03:51:02 PMFake news #lies
I loved kolek from day one and was one of the only ones who lauded his floor game rather than the other noobs who assumed he was just a spot up shooter. He was a legit pick up and no one should ever dismiss picking up a conference freshman of the year.
He was at best only an OK point guard his first season at Marquette. He couldn't shoot from the outside, he wasn't a good finisher at the rim, and he couldn't go to his right. He averaged 6.7 pts on almost unbelievably bad 32% shooting, and defenses didn't respect him. He had several crises of confidence, leading Shaka to bench him during games numerous times.
To be any good in 2022-23, Marquette needed better PG play, either from Kolek or someone else. To TK's immense credit - and to the credit of the coaches who helped him - he improved a bazillion percent. He shot 40% from 3, was much better going right, developed a float game, and became good around the basket. He was a threat to score, which kept defenses honest and opened up passing lanes for him. As you said, he had a great floor game as well as unique court vision; the fact that teams finally had to respect his ability to score made him an All-American.
Had he not worked so hard and improved so much, three years of soph-level Kolek would have been no bueno. Thankfully, he took care of business and became a star as a junior and senior. Again, a credit to him.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 02:09:54 PMHe was a recognized sought after high potential player.
I am talking about Kuath, morsell and kolek. Three proven players which took a team in turmoil and maintained tournament status.
Yes, I'm sure you'd be the epitome of positivity if one of the transfers brought in this offseason averaged 3 points and 10 MPG.
I'm curious...whose position would you rather be in going into this offseason?
Marquette's or IU's?
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2026, 04:30:24 PMYes, I'm sure you'd be the epitome of positivity if one of the transfers brought in this offseason averaged 3 points and 10 MPG.
I'm curious...whose position would you rather be in going into this offseason?
Marquette's or IU's?
I was - can't say I watched much omax his freshman year, but I lauded kuath morsell and kolek from day 1. They were incredible pickups that immediately changed the trajectory of our program.
There's a search function - you have yourself a homework assignment if you don't believe me.
Quote from: MU82 on March 06, 2026, 04:19:30 PMHe was at best only an OK point guard his first season at Marquette. He couldn't shoot from the outside, he wasn't a good finisher at the rim, and he couldn't go to his right. He averaged 6.7 pts on almost unbelievably bad 32% shooting, and defenses didn't respect him. He had several crises of confidence, leading Shaka to bench him during games numerous times.
To be any good in 2022-23, Marquette needed better PG play, either from Kolek or someone else. To TK's immense credit - and to the credit of the coaches who helped him - he improved a bazillion percent. He shot 40% from 3, was much better going right, developed a float game, and became good around the basket. He was a threat to score, which kept defenses honest and opened up passing lanes for him. As you said, he had a great floor game as well as unique court vision; the fact that teams finally had to respect his ability to score made him an All-American.
Had he not worked so hard and improved so much, three years of soph-level Kolek would have been no bueno. Thankfully, he took care of business and became a star as a junior and senior. Again, a credit to him.
I don't disagree with anything you're saying, but we have players on this roster who are much worse than Tyler was his first year. When looking at this team, it's time to stop equating 'didn't live up to expectations' with 'doesn't belong on a high major team'.
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on March 06, 2026, 04:33:19 PMI don't disagree with anything you're saying, but we have players on this roster who are much worse than Tyler was his first year. When looking at this team, it's time to stop equating 'didn't live up to expectations' with 'doesn't belong on a high major team'.
Can't argue with any of that.
I certainly am not one who looks at this team the way you mention in your last sentence.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 04:32:42 PMI was - can't say I watched much omax his freshman year, but I lauded kuath morsell and kolek from day 1. They were incredible pickups that immediately changed the trajectory of our program.
There's a search function - you have yourself a homework assignment if you don't believe me.
You might want to re-read my post as you addressed neither of the points.
I didn't question what you claimed to say about OMax when he transferred. I figured it's a coin-toss about whether that was true or not and I don't care enough to waste time looking for it.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2026, 04:36:44 PMYou might want to re-read my post as you addressed neither of the points.
I didn't question what you claimed to say about OMax when he transferred. I figured it's a coin-toss about whether that was true or not and I don't care enough to waste time looking for it.
Coward - stand behind your words if you're going to come at me. Go slink back to your corner son
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on March 06, 2026, 04:36:44 PMYou might want to re-read my post as you addressed neither of the points.
I didn't question what you claimed to say about OMax when he transferred. I figured it's a coin-toss about whether that was true or not and I don't care enough to waste time looking for it.
OMax was a top 100 recruit. Oso was as well.
Not accusing you of defending anything, VBMG, but Shaka deserves all the criticism for thinking he could build the center position off of Hamilton and Clark, two zero star recruits. That was indefensible hubris on his part.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 03:48:50 PMInitial query - Would a coach with a modern approach to roster building lead us to a 20 loss season this year?
Your illogical response - You're right, no coach who has built their roster with transfers has had bad seasons since NIL and the portal have come around.
It's a challenge to debate with you because of such hyperbolic responses. We're in this position now because Shaka carried deadweight for far too long before cutting bait. That isn't some blessing in disguise. It's a major red flag that I hope is rectified this off season. I would love to be proved wrong but I have every right to be concerned given how Shaka torpedoed this program by his own stubbornness.
And the answer is, of course, nobody knows. What we do know is you suggest that it's impossible to have a horrendous season by having a "modern approach to roster building," even though every single season there are coaches building rosters with a "modern approach" that have horrendous seasons.
If this was multiple years in the making (see: seasons evaluated by the half season, or the calendar year...at least until it fits your narrative, and then when it doesn't it's absurd to suggest an improvement in the second half of a season...), then the "modern approach to roster building" might not land Nigel or Stevens or sees Parham transfer out.
Did the portal additions scare off our one good returning player or our two stud freshman recruits? Did they hit like Michigan's are hitting? Or did they miss like Georgetown's?
Quote from: MU82 on March 06, 2026, 04:19:30 PMHe was at best only an OK point guard his first season at Marquette. He couldn't shoot from the outside, he wasn't a good finisher at the rim, and he couldn't go to his right. He averaged 6.7 pts on almost unbelievably bad 32% shooting, and defenses didn't respect him. He had several crises of confidence, leading Shaka to bench him during games numerous times.
I'm sorry, 82, but this isn't quite true. Hard to understand calling the guy who led the Big East in assists - and was 9th in the nation - "at best only an OK point guard." Tough crowd, tough crowd.
Yes, his shooting was a disaster his first year - making the calls by some Scoopers to move him off the ball bizarre - but in terms of running an offense, he was pretty much elite from the get-go.
Was he really benched often? His game log tells a different story. From the first game in December on, he played less than 25 minutes only once, while playing 33+ minutes eight times. Overall he was third on the team in minutes, just 0.4 mpg behind Morsell for second. I don't doubt there were times he was struggling and Shaka sat him down, but it doesn't seem like that happened often, or that those "benchings" lasted very long. Some may suggest he was just rested, as was everyone else on team.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 06, 2026, 04:51:20 PMAnd the answer is, of course, nobody knows. What we do know is you suggest that it's impossible to have a horrendous season by having a "modern approach to roster building," even though every single season there are coaches building rosters with a "modern approach" that have horrendous seasons.
If this was multiple years in the making (see: seasons evaluated by the half season, or the calendar year...at least until it fits your narrative, and then when it doesn't it's absurd to suggest an improvement in the second half of a season...), then the "modern approach to roster building" might not land Nigel or Stevens or sees Parham transfer out.
Did the portal additions scare off our one good returning player or our two stud freshman recruits? Did they hit like Michigan's are hitting? Or did they miss like Georgetown's?
Can't judge a half season eh. Why was a top 15 team in December a 7 seed come tournament time. What happened?
Quote from: wadesworld on March 06, 2026, 11:48:44 AMYes, the coach who has been to a Final Four and has a 381-202 record in his career, including a 109-60 record at Marquette, doesn't know how to run a team/program.
you clearly are his #1 fan. The past 14 months...train station.
How much will I get paid as the gm? :)
Quote from: Viper on March 06, 2026, 07:30:35 PMyou clearly are his #1 fan. The past 14 months...train station.
Biggest fan? Yeah, I don't think so. Not sure what train station means but sure.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on March 06, 2026, 01:01:34 PMNot just Big East ready. Potential first (James), second (Parham), and third (Stevens) All-Big East team candidates.
That's a good start with the development of others, freshmen, RS freshmen and portal players who will surround them.
Their stats are impressive. However, being All Big East is nothing to rave about as the league over all has really stunk this year. Next season will tell us if we can compete at the high D1 level, especially if the league improves as well.
Quote from: panda on March 06, 2026, 11:26:53 AMhttps://x.com/bensteelemjs/status/2029940641707278661?s=46
Shaka shares his thoughts on a GM. Time will tell but this is troubling in my eyes.
Everything is troubling in your eyes. Standard fare for a drama king.
3/4 of the Scoop community would do the job for free. Isn't that what we've been doing all season long? :)
Quote from: Pakuni on March 06, 2026, 04:56:29 PMI'm sorry, 82, but this isn't quite true. Hard to understand calling the guy who led the Big East in assists - and was 9th in the nation - "at best only an OK point guard." Tough crowd, tough crowd.
Yes, his shooting was a disaster his first year - making the calls by some Scoopers to move him off the ball bizarre - but in terms of running an offense, he was pretty much elite from the get-go.
Was he really benched often? His game log tells a different story. From the first game in December on, he played less than 25 minutes only once, while playing 33+ minutes eight times. Overall he was third on the team in minutes, just 0.4 mpg behind Morsell for second. I don't doubt there were times he was struggling and Shaka sat him down, but it doesn't seem like that happened often, or that those "benchings" lasted very long. Some may suggest he was just rested, as was everyone else on team.
Completely agree. He was a good player from day one but struggled with his shot. Overall he was still a good player
And the only time he was benched was that Creighton game when we lost and then it came out that he was pissed off and emotional in the locker room after. Shaka said he'd never bench him again after that
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 06, 2026, 11:43:21 AMShaka is a good coach and knows how to run a team. If they already have coaches doing everything a GM does, then what is the point of hiring a GM just to create a title?
I'd argue because it's not just creating a title. It's creating a new role.
The reality is building rosters has radically changed in the past 2-3 years. Over that time, all of the assistants, including Rivers & McDevitt, already have dedicated jobs that don't go away. Does anyone here really trust that Tyler McDevitt is going to be an ace negotiating NIL contracts?
Here's what you need a GM to do:
1) Identify portal targets early because many deals are done before portal entries are even made public.
2) Determine fit from a personality and culture standpoint on a very short timeline.
3) Determine analytic fit and need.
4) Manage the NIL budget and negotiate contracts.
5) Maintain a transfer database to stay ahead of the portal.
6) Retain and keep the current roster happy.
Yes, there are parts of this that can be done by the current staff, but why would you want to add those duties on to staff members who are already busy with existing duties? The best GM candidates should have management, marketing, and contract experience in addition to understanding CBB and advanced analytics.
While retention has been a positive, this staff clearly has some problems when it comes to talent identification and team self-evaluation. I'm more troubled by an admin that still has yet to hire a replacement for Mike Broeker as the person running MBB (and considering the breadth of the AD job it should 1000% NOT be the same person doing both). We constantly see budgetary cuts and reticence to innovate.
It really seems like Marquette views a GM as the person that runs the program because that's how it works in the NBA. But college programs with GMs use them to identify, recruit, and manage the roster with the HC still having final say over their program.
Ultimately, there is zero downside to adding someone who can streamline these processes for the staff especially when we haven't replaced Broeker's $300k/year position over a year later. In a year like this, maybe Shaka has time to be pouring over portal rumors, but in a year when we're competing for Big East and NCAA seeding and postseason success, it would unquestionably be better to have someone dedicated to looking ahead at the portal so the staff can stay focused on the present.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 07, 2026, 08:56:47 AMI'd argue because it's not just creating a title. It's creating a new role.
The reality is building rosters has radically changed in the past 2-3 years. Over that time, all of the assistants, including Rivers & McDevitt, already have dedicated jobs that don't go away. Does anyone here really trust that Tyler McDevitt is going to be an ace negotiating NIL contracts?
Here's what you need a GM to do:
1) Identify portal targets early because many deals are done before portal entries are even made public.
2) Determine fit from a personality and culture standpoint on a very short timeline.
3) Determine analytic fit and need.
4) Manage the NIL budget and negotiate contracts.
5) Maintain a transfer database to stay ahead of the portal.
6) Retain and keep the current roster happy.
Yes, there are parts of this that can be done by the current staff, but why would you want to add those duties on to staff members who are already busy with existing duties? The best GM candidates should have management, marketing, and contract experience in addition to understanding CBB and advanced analytics.
While retention has been a positive, this staff clearly has some problems when it comes to talent identification and team self-evaluation. I'm more troubled by an admin that still has yet to hire a replacement for Mike Broeker as the person running MBB (and considering the breadth of the AD job it should 1000% NOT be the same person doing both). We constantly see budgetary cuts and reticence to innovate.
It really seems like Marquette views a GM as the person that runs the program because that's how it works in the NBA. But college programs with GMs use them to identify, recruit, and manage the roster with the HC still having final say over their program.
Ultimately, there is zero downside to adding someone who can streamline these processes for the staff especially when we haven't replaced Broeker's $300k/year position over a year later. In a year like this, maybe Shaka has time to be pouring over portal rumors, but in a year when we're competing for Big East and NCAA seeding and postseason success, it would unquestionably be better to have someone dedicated to looking ahead at the portal so the staff can stay focused on the present.
I think Shaka wants to be the one identifying the talent. That's what a traditional head coach in college does and I think he wants to keep it that way. As far as the talent identification, I think that is moreso to do with one specific class more than anything. Now that they are back in the portal I think the talent gaps will be eliminated.
Our Freshman and Sophomores are just really good. Replace the current Junior Class with the portal and we are right back.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 07, 2026, 08:56:47 AMI'd argue because it's not just creating a title. It's creating a new role.
The reality is building rosters has radically changed in the past 2-3 years. Over that time, all of the assistants, including Rivers & McDevitt, already have dedicated jobs that don't go away. Does anyone here really trust that Tyler McDevitt is going to be an ace negotiating NIL contracts?
Here's what you need a GM to do:
1) Identify portal targets early because many deals are done before portal entries are even made public.
2) Determine fit from a personality and culture standpoint on a very short timeline.
3) Determine analytic fit and need.
4) Manage the NIL budget and negotiate contracts.
5) Maintain a transfer database to stay ahead of the portal.
6) Retain and keep the current roster happy.
Yes, there are parts of this that can be done by the current staff, but why would you want to add those duties on to staff members who are already busy with existing duties? The best GM candidates should have management, marketing, and contract experience in addition to understanding CBB and advanced analytics.
While retention has been a positive, this staff clearly has some problems when it comes to talent identification and team self-evaluation. I'm more troubled by an admin that still has yet to hire a replacement for Mike Broeker as the person running MBB (and considering the breadth of the AD job it should 1000% NOT be the same person doing both). We constantly see budgetary cuts and reticence to innovate.
It really seems like Marquette views a GM as the person that runs the program because that's how it works in the NBA. But college programs with GMs use them to identify, recruit, and manage the roster with the HC still having final say over their program.
Ultimately, there is zero downside to adding someone who can streamline these processes for the staff especially when we haven't replaced Broeker's $300k/year position over a year later. In a year like this, maybe Shaka has time to be pouring over portal rumors, but in a year when we're competing for Big East and NCAA seeding and postseason success, it would unquestionably be better to have someone dedicated to looking ahead at the portal so the staff can stay focused on the present.
"Shut up! No they don't! You don't know what you're talking about!?"
Stop making logical points. You'll upset some people here.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 07, 2026, 08:56:47 AMI'd argue because it's not just creating a title. It's creating a new role.
The reality is building rosters has radically changed in the past 2-3 years. Over that time, all of the assistants, including Rivers & McDevitt, already have dedicated jobs that don't go away. Does anyone here really trust that Tyler McDevitt is going to be an ace negotiating NIL contracts?
Here's what you need a GM to do:
1) Identify portal targets early because many deals are done before portal entries are even made public.
2) Determine fit from a personality and culture standpoint on a very short timeline.
3) Determine analytic fit and need.
4) Manage the NIL budget and negotiate contracts.
5) Maintain a transfer database to stay ahead of the portal.
6) Retain and keep the current roster happy.
Yes, there are parts of this that can be done by the current staff, but why would you want to add those duties on to staff members who are already busy with existing duties? The best GM candidates should have management, marketing, and contract experience in addition to understanding CBB and advanced analytics.
While retention has been a positive, this staff clearly has some problems when it comes to talent identification and team self-evaluation. I'm more troubled by an admin that still has yet to hire a replacement for Mike Broeker as the person running MBB (and considering the breadth of the AD job it should 1000% NOT be the same person doing both). We constantly see budgetary cuts and reticence to innovate.
It really seems like Marquette views a GM as the person that runs the program because that's how it works in the NBA. But college programs with GMs use them to identify, recruit, and manage the roster with the HC still having final say over their program.
Ultimately, there is zero downside to adding someone who can streamline these processes for the staff especially when we haven't replaced Broeker's $300k/year position over a year later. In a year like this, maybe Shaka has time to be pouring over portal rumors, but in a year when we're competing for Big East and NCAA seeding and postseason success, it would unquestionably be better to have someone dedicated to looking ahead at the portal so the staff can stay focused on the present.
I see the same thing happening in English soccer. The manager used to handle everything. Then some foreign clubs began to use a director of football and big clubs in England took notice. Now managers who demand full control are looked at like dinosaurs.
Whether coaches like it or not, it is now two different jobs.
Brew - Excellent post. Let's start / add to this by just getting rid of Broeker.
He has all the personality of white paint and is in way over his head.
This combo of Broeker and Prez Tik Tok is a huge drop off from their predecessors.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 06, 2026, 04:56:29 PMI'm sorry, 82, but this isn't quite true. Hard to understand calling the guy who led the Big East in assists - and was 9th in the nation - "at best only an OK point guard." Tough crowd, tough crowd.
Yes, his shooting was a disaster his first year - making the calls by some Scoopers to move him off the ball bizarre - but in terms of running an offense, he was pretty much elite from the get-go.
Was he really benched often? His game log tells a different story. From the first game in December on, he played less than 25 minutes only once, while playing 33+ minutes eight times. Overall he was third on the team in minutes, just 0.4 mpg behind Morsell for second. I don't doubt there were times he was struggling and Shaka sat him down, but it doesn't seem like that happened often, or that those "benchings" lasted very long. Some may suggest he was just rested, as was everyone else on team.
Actually, from the first game in December on, he played less than 25 minutes 3 times. And the season doesn't start in December; in total, he played less than 25 minutes 6 times. And IIRC Shaka sat him down several times to "get his mind right" even in a few games in which he played 25+ minutes; I do acknowledge I'm relying on my memory on that.
As a senior, Derrick Wilson averaged 5.6 points and 4.7 assists - roughly 1 fewer than sophomore Kolek in each department - while shooting 41%, nearly 10 points better than soph TK. I would never suggest that, at any point in his career, Derrick Wilson was Kolek's equal; just using it as an example to show how misleading raw stats can be.
Maybe "only OK" was a poor choice of words to describe Kolek's first season at Marquette, but almost comically poor shooting (32% overall, 28% on 3s) affected his ability to be a good all-around PG. Pak, I sense from your comment that you'd at least call him "good" as a sophomore ... but doesn't a "good" high-major college PG have to at least be a threat to score?
Given the departures after that season - Morsell, Lewis, Kuath, Elliott - we desperately needed improvement from all of the returnees, and we especially needed better PG play. Thankfully, Tyler worked his arse off to become a true offensive threat and an All-American, and Marquette got to hang a double Big East championship banner.
This conversation with you and others make it sound like I didn't think Tyler Kolek was a great PG for Marquette. I absolutely do think he was great - arguably, the best in program history. He made himself that, I loved watching him play, and I'm proud of the young man.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 07, 2026, 08:56:47 AMI'd argue because it's not just creating a title. It's creating a new role.
The reality is building rosters has radically changed in the past 2-3 years. Over that time, all of the assistants, including Rivers & McDevitt, already have dedicated jobs that don't go away. Does anyone here really trust that Tyler McDevitt is going to be an ace negotiating NIL contracts?
Here's what you need a GM to do:
1) Identify portal targets early because many deals are done before portal entries are even made public.
2) Determine fit from a personality and culture standpoint on a very short timeline.
3) Determine analytic fit and need.
4) Manage the NIL budget and negotiate contracts.
5) Maintain a transfer database to stay ahead of the portal.
6) Retain and keep the current roster happy.
Yes, there are parts of this that can be done by the current staff, but why would you want to add those duties on to staff members who are already busy with existing duties? The best GM candidates should have management, marketing, and contract experience in addition to understanding CBB and advanced analytics.
I agree that these tasks need to be done, but I don't believe what you are describing is an actual full-time job.
I think whether or not someone on this staff can do this is another question entirely.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 07, 2026, 11:30:07 AMI agree that these tasks need to be done, but I don't believe what you are describing is an actual full-time job.
I think whether or not someone on this staff can do this is another question entirely.
It may not be, but there are enough duties to spread out to make it that. Add in HS recruiting and dedicated analytic work and it is a full time gig. Especially when all the current jobs are definitely full time gigs.