No need for the portal, period. Today is proof, played better than 4th team in the nation.
Four points from bench. Two starters leaving. Great foundation. Bring in two from transfers.
Quote from: Newsdreams on March 07, 2026, 03:05:40 PMNo need for the portal, period. Today is proof, played better than 4th team in the nation.
Please deactivate your account. There is a lot of stupid things said on this board and your simply adding to it.
Quote from: goldeneagle91114 on March 07, 2026, 08:38:55 PMPlease deactivate your account. There is a lot of stupid things said on this board and your simply adding to it.
sigh....
Quote from: Newsdreams on March 07, 2026, 03:05:40 PMNo need for the portal, period. Today is proof, played better than 4th team in the nation.
Thought we were supposed to use teal?
Quote from: connie on March 07, 2026, 08:46:19 PMThought we were supposed to use teal?
Late 60's- 70's child, to me teal = establishment
Quote from: Newsdreams on March 07, 2026, 09:53:20 PMLate 60's- 70's child, to me teal = establishment
I thought teal was woke?
Quote from: Newsdreams on March 07, 2026, 03:05:40 PMNo need for the portal, period. Today is proof, played better than 4th team in the nation.
but what if.... our juniors and 1 or 2 of our sophmores were functional?
Quote from: jfp61 on March 07, 2026, 10:21:24 PMbut what if.... our juniors and 1 or 2 of our sophmores were functional?
Newsie is being sarcastic. There is a sliver of truth to what he typed but the portal is necessary next year because the junior class this year has been essentially absent.
Is it possible that the win over UConn convinces Shaka that he is right after all and it is not really necessary to go to the portal?
Quote from: rgoode57 on March 08, 2026, 08:47:30 AMIs it possible that the win over UConn convinces Shaka that he is right after all and it is not really necessary to go to the portal?
Yes. #DoneDeal
James/Stevens/Owens/Parham/Hamilton
Who says no to that starting lineup opening day next year? I'm not as confident as others that Shaka is looking for a starting big in the portal. Think his two priorities are a guard and a 3/4 switchable.
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 08, 2026, 08:53:49 AMJames/Stevens/Owens/Parham/Hamilton
Who says no to that starting lineup opening day next year? I'm not as confident as others that Shaka is looking for a starting big in the portal. Think his two priorities are a guard and a 3/4 switchable.
I would imagine Nigel would say no to that with the offers he's going to be getting. Doesn't seem like he wants to leave, but we will also have to give him a reason to stay.
They are not starting Caedin Hamilton next year.
Quote from: GoldenEagles03 on March 08, 2026, 09:05:13 AMI would imagine Nigel would say no to that with the offers he's going to be getting. Doesn't seem like he wants to leave, but we will also have to give him a reason to stay.
They are not starting Caedin Hamilton next year.
I don't think NJ decision to stay or leave with have anything to do with whether or not Hamilton starts.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 09:06:59 AMI don't think NJ decision to stay or leave with have anything to do with whether or not Hamilton starts.
I'm sure it has a decent amount to do about their ability to win. If Caedin Hamilton is starting, their ability to win goes down the drain.
Point stands, they aren't starting Caedin Hamilton next year.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 09:06:59 AMI don't think NJ decision to stay or leave with have anything to do with whether or not Hamilton starts.
I'm not convinced that is correct. Hamilton starting, or even playing meaningful minutes will hurt MU's chances to win. I can't speak to how important playing in the NCAA is to James, but I can't just assume it is not important.
I guess none of us know, but more significantly this is not a realistic scenario worth discussion.
Watching the presser, I'd say 90% Caedin is back. Hopefully as 2nd or 3rd option at C off the bench, but I'd be really surprised if he is gone.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 08, 2026, 09:34:22 AMI'm not convinced that is correct. Hamilton starting, or even playing meaningful minutes will hurt MU's chances to win. I can't speak to how important playing in the NCAA is to James, but I can't just assume it is not important.
I guess none of us know, but more significantly this is not a realistic scenario worth discussion.
Agree - Shaka has a huge part to sell in his transfer conversations and that is playing with one of the best freshman in the country.
If Caedin is a part of the team's plans next year, I think it makes it more difficult to sell the concept of a big turnaround.
If he is playing any sort of minutes next year, it means Shaka did not address a massive hole in our roster for next season.
Shaka: "We really want you to stay here. Here is $2 million. We are also going to be active in the transfer market to improve the talent around you."
NJ: "I am only staying if you guaranty that Caedin Hamilton doesn't start."
You guys are nuts if you think anything like the above conversation is happening.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 09:41:08 AMShaka: "We really want you to stay here. Here is $2 million. We are also going to be active in the transfer market to improve the talent around you."
NJ: "I am only staying if you guaranty that Caedin Hamilton doesn't start."
You guys are nuts if you think anything like the above conversation is happening.
I think we have massive holes in our roster next season if 18 is playing any sort of significant role on the team.
Nigel can make money anywhere. I would assume he wants to win as well. There's a cap on our success if 18 is playing a lot.
Quote from: panda on March 08, 2026, 09:43:23 AMI think we have massive holes in our roster next season if 18 is playing any sort of significant role on the team.
Nigel can make money anywhere. I would assume he wants to win as well. There's a cap on our success if 18 is playing a lot.
Ok.
Him staying or leaving has nothing to do with 18 starting. No coach is making that guaranty.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 09:06:59 AMI don't think NJ decision to stay or leave with have anything to do with whether or not Hamilton starts.
I believe it certainly can and will. To say it won't have anything to do with his decisions on his future is naive. Should he just be satisfied with whatever Shaka throws out there when he has options? Tyler expressed his desire to Shaka about team improvement.....and NJ has more power now than any player before.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 09:47:56 AMOk.
Him staying or leaving has nothing to do with 18 starting. No coach is making that guaranty.
The overarching point is if Shaka can't make serious roster additions to make us competitive next year, Nigel is a high risk to leave.
Not replacing hamilton's minutes this year with a competent player puts a low ceiling on our talent level for next season.
Quote from: panda on March 08, 2026, 09:49:34 AMThe overarching point is if Shaka can't make serious roster additions to make us competitive next year, Nigel is a high risk to leave.
No kidding. I am not debating this in the least. I am debating whether or not he is going to stay or leave if Hamilton starts. No coach is making that guaranty. It's a silly point.
Quote from: panda on March 08, 2026, 09:49:34 AMThe overarching point is if Shaka can't make serious roster additions to make us competitive next year, Nigel is a high risk to leave.
Not replacing hamilton's minutes this year with a competent player puts a low ceiling on our talent level for next season.
Correct.
I also believe they will make those roster additions/adjustments.
Quote from: We R Final Four on March 08, 2026, 09:48:57 AMI believe it certainly can and will.
LOL..no.
Silly season on Scoop this morning.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 09:52:19 AMNo kidding. I am not debating this in the least. I am debating whether or not he is going to stay or leave if Hamilton starts. No coach is making that guaranty. It's a silly point.
*guarantee
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 09:41:08 AMShaka: "We really want you to stay here. Here is $2 million. We are also going to be active in the transfer market to improve the talent around you."
NJ: "I am only staying if you guaranty that Caedin Hamilton doesn't start."
You guys are nuts if you think anything like the above conversation is happening.
Where are you getting $2 Million? Haha
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 09:52:19 AMNo kidding. I am not debating this in the least. I am debating whether or not he is going to stay or leave if Hamilton starts. No coach is making that guaranty. It's a silly point.
I would imagine if he starts, he would play a lot of minutes. That goes along with the lower level of talent point we're making.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 09:47:56 AMOk.
Him staying or leaving has nothing to do with 18 starting. No coach is making that guaranty.
I doubt Shaka is guaranteeing James to be a starter, but we all know it. Shaka's roster will tell James everything he needs to know.
Hamilton starting would be a tell tail sign Shaka struck out on the transfer portal.
This still strikes me a an exercise is futility because I think it is way, way more likely Shaka goes without a C (3G 2F, or 2G 3F lineup) than start Hamilton.
Quote from: panda on March 08, 2026, 09:53:10 AM*guarantee
Yeah, I guess if you can't debate my point without shifting goalposts, at least you can get me on my spelling.
Congrats.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 10:00:16 AMYeah, I guess if you can't debate my point without shifting goalposts, at least you can get me on my spelling.
Congrats.
lol I'm giving you a hard time sulty mcnulty. It's all good. I did follow up with a response as well.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 08, 2026, 09:59:50 AMHamilton starting would be a tell tail sign Shaka struck out on the transfer portal.
Maybe. Maybe not.
Regardless, that's not way NJ will be here or not. Upgrade the talent? Yes. No doubt.
Quote from: panda on March 08, 2026, 10:01:34 AMlol I'm giving you a hard time sulty mcnulty. It's all good. I did follow up with a response as well.
I, for one, applaud you for helping people with their spelling.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 10:02:07 AMMaybe. Maybe not.
Regardless, that's not way NJ will be here or not. Upgrade the talent? Yes. No doubt.
I think it would be more valid to discuss how the Boozer twins will fit into MU next year than discussing Hamilton starting.
People please, this thread is just about RGV's and portal. Not about individual players or starting lineups. Keep it on actual topic. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER.
Quote from: Newsdreams on March 08, 2026, 11:02:47 AMPeople please, this thread is just about RGV's and portal. Not about individual players or starting lineups. Keep it on actual topic. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER.
I'm in the camp that yesterday's win is going to be interpreted as validation of RGV and makes it less likely that Shaka makes a significant move in the portal.
Quote from: The Equalizer on March 08, 2026, 11:48:06 AMI'm in the camp that yesterday's win is going to be interpreted as validation of RGV and makes it less likely that Shaka makes a significant move in the portal.
I think/hope Shaka is smart enough to know that his teams aren't going beat quality opponents often because they shoot 13% from behind the arc.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 08, 2026, 11:54:01 AMI think/hope Shaka is smart enough to know that his teams aren't going beat quality opponents often because they shoot 13% from behind the arc.
Well, if your not a Shaka fan, you'd wish he'd be ignorant of the reality of the team and yesterdays game.
Quote from: The Equalizer on March 08, 2026, 11:48:06 AMI'm in the camp that yesterday's win is going to be interpreted as validation of RGV and makes it less likely that Shaka makes a significant move in the portal.
Come on. That's nuts.
Quote from: The Equalizer on March 08, 2026, 11:48:06 AMI'm in the camp that yesterday's win is going to be interpreted as validation of RGV and makes it less likely that Shaka makes a significant move in the portal.
What kind of "camp" is that?
Really enjoying this very Scoopy thread. Thanks, everyone!
Quote from: panda on March 08, 2026, 09:43:23 AMI think we have massive holes in our roster next season if 18 is playing any sort of significant role on the team.
Nigel can make money anywhere. I would assume he wants to win as well. There's a cap on our success if 18 is playing a lot.
Give it a rest.
If 18 is even living in the United States next year, Marquette is doomed.
Quote from: 79Warrior on March 08, 2026, 07:14:03 PMGive it a rest.
Give what a rest? Reality ?
Marquette has beaten three teams with a winning conference record this season, southern, valpo (😬😬😬) and UConn. It isn't controversial to say we need a lot of help next year after graduating two starters.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 08, 2026, 12:04:44 PMWell, if your not a Shaka fan, you'd wish he'd be ignorant of the reality of the team and yesterdays game.
*you're
*yesterday's
Quote from: The Sultan on March 08, 2026, 12:33:59 PMWhat kind of "camp" is that?
One where everyone is dressed in RGV gear from the Spirit Shop and sit around a campfire singing
Kumbaya.
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 08, 2026, 08:53:49 AMJames/Stevens/Owens/Parham/Hamilton
Who says no to that starting lineup opening day next year? I'm not as confident as others that Shaka is looking for a starting big in the portal. Think his two priorities are a guard and a 3/4 switchable.
I'd say no by not renewing my season tickets.
Spoke with Adrien and Nigel Thursday for a few minutes. They seem to love Marquette and Marquette loves Adrien and Nigel. Spoke with Damarius after the game yesterday for about. 5 to 10 minutes. He seems to love Marquette too. Damarius has had three injuries according to his Dad and it is just a matter of getting him healthy. Feel Royce loves Marquette too. Nash Walker was mentioned too as someone who stands out for his shooting. Damarius was asked by my friend which team he would rather face in NY he said Providence was not the best. But since then Marquette has drawn Xavier. Someone on this site posted efficiency Rankings that had Caedin and it is not his fault ranked 98th out of 99 Big East players not long ago. Not sure if any of this is a MU Scoop and was not got Hanging at the AL but that is all
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on March 08, 2026, 08:24:08 PMSpoke with Adrien and Nigel Thursday for a few minutes. They seem to love Marquette and Marquette loves Adrien and Nigel. Spoke with Demarius after the game yesterday for about. 5 to 10 minutes. He seems to love Marquette too. Demarius has had three injuries according to his Dad and it is just a matter of getting him healthy. Feel Royce loves Marquette too. Nash Walker was mentioned too as someone who stands out for his shooting. Demarius was asked by my friend which team he would rather face in NY he said Providence was not the best. But since then Marquette has drawn Xavier. Someone on this site posted efficiency Rankings that had Caedin and it is not his fault ranked 98th out of 99 Big East players not long ago. Not sure if any of this is a MU Scoop and was not got Hanging at the AL but that is all
The young man's name is Damarius.
RGV did not overcome a talent deficiency for a few of these guys, hence the 2025-26 season. That doesn't mean you throw it out the window, because the caliber of recruits Shaka has pulled in the past 2 seasons has gone WAY up.
Freshmen tend to take huge jumps, and this class (I'm including Phillips and even the redshirts) could all hit their stride to provide an exceptional foundation. Sheek could be an Oso-type player pretty quickly and I'm expecting one of the sharpshooters to be able to give us much-needed looks from beyond the arc. That's not even considering IMPROVED versions of Nigel and Adrien.
Royce could be definitely find himself on an all Big East team next season. Owens, with a healthy offseason, should be much more consistent next year.
Fill in the hole at center with a 3rd or 4th year player, and this squad is a tournament team. Adding a guys who can play PG behind Nigel would also help greatly.
The funniest/ ironic thing about RGV is nothing in the mantra is wrong.
Shaka's team just had objectively bad relationships, until some juniors left/got injured/stopped playing real minutes.
Quote from: jfp61 on March 09, 2026, 10:06:39 AMThe funniest/ ironic thing about RGV is nothing in the mantra is wrong.
Shaka's team just had objectively bad relationships, until some juniors left/got injured/stopped playing real minutes.
#thealtercation
Quote from: Newsdreams on March 07, 2026, 03:05:40 PMNo need for the portal, period. Today is proof, played better than 4th team in the nation.
What was proof of the previous 19 losses?
Quote from: jfp61 on March 09, 2026, 10:06:39 AMThe funniest/ ironic thing about RGV is nothing in the mantra is wrong.
Shaka's team just had objectively bad relationships, until some juniors left/got injured/stopped playing real minutes.
100% there is nothing wrong with RGV, except the total exclusion of transfers. It has simply been the "name" given to the no transfer policy.
Unfortunately there are a handful of dolts who like to paint Shaka as an unsophisticated HC who can't blend transfers with the homegrown players, or that MU players are so fragile emotionally that they can't deal with transfers.
MU can, should and will recruit and develop HS players.
Totally agree, and also, the world will not end if Caedin is getting minutes next year. The development of bigs is not linear, I hold out hope that he will be a contributor. That being said, it would be wonderful to get an experienced 5 in the portal.
Quote from: PJDunn on March 09, 2026, 11:20:51 AMTotally agree, and also, the world will not end if Caedin is getting minutes next year. The development of bigs is not linear, I hold out hope that he will be a contributor. That being said, it would be wonderful to get an experienced 5 in the portal.
I've warmed up some to Caedin being back. He doesn't try to do too much offensively and is unselfish. He needs to get better at altering shots at the rim and he's not as much of a physical presence currently as Shaka makes it seem like. Sheek is roughly 215lbs now I believe. Wonder how far along he will be next season and what his role will be. Nigel and Royce's emerging NIL valuation may make us look at more of a budget option at the 5. Besides, MU doesn't have a history of landing coveted bigs. At least in my lifetime.
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 09, 2026, 11:33:54 AMI've warmed up some to Caedin being back. He doesn't try to do too much offensively and is unselfish. He needs to get better at altering shots at the rim and he's not as much of a physical presence currently as Shaka makes it seem like. Sheek is roughly 215lbs now I believe. Wonder how far along he will be next season and what his role will be. Nigel and Royce's emerging NIL valuation may make us look at more of a budget option at the 5. Besides, MU doesn't have a history of landing coveted bigs. At least in my lifetime.
I cannot believe this is being discussed. Of players playing at least 30% of minutes, he is the 15th worst high major player in the country according to PRPG! and the 10th worst BPM player.
If Shaka is serious about competing next season, he should come nowhere near the rotation.
Quote from: panda on March 09, 2026, 11:46:59 AMI cannot believe this is being discussed. Of players playing at least 30% of minutes, he is the 15th worst high major player in the country according to PRPG! and the 10th worst BPM player.
If Shaka is serious about competing next season, he should come nowhere near the rotation.
Shaka is not some fan boy who evaluates a player on one or a couple of games. Hamilton earned his very limited role. Hamilton's very modest improvement has at best earned him one of 15 roster spots, which he should be very grateful for. If not, the portal is always there for him.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 09, 2026, 11:53:45 AMShaka is not some fan boy who evaluates a player on one or a couple of games. Hamilton earned his very limited role. Hamilton's very modest improvement has at best earned him one of 15 roster spots, which he should be very grateful for. If not, the portal is always there for him.
Aside from taking 10,000 meaningless hook shots, Hamilton did nothing to earn his minutes. The only actual justification for Hamilton's minutes throughout the season could only be explained as Shaka "fan boying" for his teachers pet. You can point to the exact time we turned into a bubble team and it is when Hamilton departed the starting lineup/significant minutes and Parham started playing more.
He's done nothing to earn his spot on this roster other than his superb ability to collect EGB's.
Quote from: CountryRoads on March 08, 2026, 08:53:49 AMJames/Stevens/Owens/Parham/Hamilton
Who says no to that starting lineup opening day next year?
I say no. Is this a serious question? No. Clearly no.
I like Hamilton. He has a great body and if anybody was paying attention, after Gold picked up #4 Hamilton came in and scored twice on nice plays got an assist and a rebound. Later missed a nice move to the hoop but the fould wasm't called. Players, escpecially big guys take time to develope. He's only a sophamore. YOu guys kicked Joplin around for a couple of years too. If Hamilton finds himself this off season he could be a real plus next season. Regardless Smart will get a starting center for next season. The 4/5 slots would look like this: portal guy, Parham to start. Hamilton/Clark back up 5 and Pearson backup 4. That's pretty big in the post. Owens starts at the 3 backed up by Egbouno. That's bigger and stronger than Ross. Looks like a promising baseline to me. It strikes me that Ross played out of position his whole career and was very good. Kudos to him but both Owens and Egbouno are 6'7" and Egbouno is a big kid at 220lbs..
Quote from: panda on March 09, 2026, 11:59:51 AMAside from taking 10,000 meaningless hook shots, Hamilton did nothing to earn his minutes. The only actual justification for Hamilton's minutes throughout the season could only be explained as Shaka "fan boying" for his teachers pet. You can point to the exact time we turned into a bubble team and it is when Hamilton departed the starting lineup/significant minutes and Parham started playing more.
He's done nothing to earn his spot on this roster other than his superb ability to collect EGB's.
I can't really argue against what you wrote. I guess it just seems to me that an end of the bench guy is not a major issue.
I am in the same camp as you with his beginning of the season playing time. I can understand Shaka's RGV branding and attempt to be different with zero transfers, but I still can't wrap my head around his total blind spot with Hamilton's ability to play major college hoops.
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 09, 2026, 12:14:45 PMI say no. Is this a serious question? No. Clearly no.
No it was not serious lol
Quote from: brewcity77 on March 09, 2026, 12:14:45 PMI say no. Is this a serious question? No. Clearly no.
Given CountryRoads' posting history - including frequent criticism of Hamilton and calls to cut several players - I was giving him credit for being non-teal facetious.
Quote from: hawk on March 09, 2026, 12:17:23 PMI like Hamilton. He has a great body and if anybody was paying attention, after Gold picked up #4 Hamilton came in and scored twice on nice plays got an assist and a rebound. Later missed a nice move to the hoop but the fould wasm't called. Players, escpecially big guys take time to develope. He's only a sophamore. YOu guys kicked Joplin around for a couple of years too. If Hamilton finds himself this off season he could be a real plus next season. Regardless Smart will get a starting center for next season. The 4/5 slots would look like this: portal guy, Parham to start. Hamilton/Clark back up 5 and Pearson backup 4. That's pretty big in the post. Owens starts at the 3 backed up by Egbouno. That's bigger and stronger than Ross. Looks like a promising baseline to me. It strikes me that Ross played out of position his whole career and was very good. Kudos to him but both Owens and Egbouno are 6'7" and Egbouno is a big kid at 220lbs..
Granted, this is just everyone's opinion, but the vast majority of fans have a hard time dismissing Hamilton's previous 30 games in favor of one game. IMO, Shaka, and every other D1 HC, would look at a larger body of work in a player evaluation.
But I think Hamilton could be a 4-6 mpg guy on a NCAA tourney team.
Quote from: hawk on March 09, 2026, 12:17:23 PMI like Hamilton. He has a great body and if anybody was paying attention, after Gold picked up #4 Hamilton came in and scored twice on nice plays got an assist and a rebound. Later missed a nice move to the hoop but the fould wasm't called. Players, escpecially big guys take time to develope. He's only a sophamore. YOu guys kicked Joplin around for a couple of years too. If Hamilton finds himself this off season he could be a real plus next season. Regardless Smart will get a starting center for next season. The 4/5 slots would look like this: portal guy, Parham to start. Hamilton/Clark back up 5 and Pearson backup 4. That's pretty big in the post. Owens starts at the 3 backed up by Egbouno. That's bigger and stronger than Ross. Looks like a promising baseline to me. It strikes me that Ross played out of position his whole career and was very good. Kudos to him but both Owens and Egbouno are 6'7" and Egbouno is a big kid at 220lbs..
He's a redshirt sophomore, he was the same class as Norman.
As far as Jop goes he was 6th man of the year his second year. People were frustrated that the top ranked recruit of Kam/Stevie/Jop was essentially a spot shooter with no defense but he was a strong player off the bench when OMax came off or slid to the 5 and put up numbers that were good enough to justify not going to the portal after OMax declared for the draft. That's wayyy different than Hamilton spending three years in the program and being one of the worst high major players according to the metrics posted by Panda.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 09, 2026, 12:30:25 PMBut I think Hamilton could be a 4-6 mpg guy on a NCAA tourney team.
I agree with this (because he literally was a 6mpg guy on an NCAA tournament team) but my concern is if Shaka actually has a tiered NIL structure that incrementally increases with time in the program, as some have alluded to. Then a guy in his 4th year being a small bit player is making way more than his worth when we could get those same 6mpg from a guy who's eating less of the NIL budget.
Quote from: MU82 on March 09, 2026, 12:24:58 PMGiven CountryRoads' posting history - including frequent criticism of Hamilton and calls to cut several players - I was giving him credit for being non-teal facetious.
Very little criticism of any MU player outside of venting in a game thread, but have tried to be better since the new year.
Here's Matt Heldt's game log for 2018-19:
https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/max-heldt-1/gamelog/2019
He was an out-of-rotation backup big who served as an experienced insurance policy if a couple of guys got in foul trouble. That's an example of how Caedin could be used next season (and how he largely was used the second half of this season); if so, simply having him on the roster wouldn't doom Marquette to failure.
The trouble would be if Shaka thinks Caedin is more than that. But based on how he used Caedin since late December, Shaka knows exactly what Caedin is.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 09, 2026, 12:22:24 PMI can't really argue against what you wrote. I guess it just seems to me that an end of the bench guy is not a major issue.
I am in the same camp as you with his beginning of the season playing time. I can understand Shaka's RGV branding and attempt to be different with zero transfers, but I still can't wrap my head around his total blind spot with Hamilton's ability to play major college hoops.
A player that bad shouldn't play at this level. Given Shaka makes the necessary additions this offseason, could theoretically play several different lineups before ever getting to a guy who is a negative offensively and is maybe the worst defender I've ever seen.
There should be a transfer starting at the 5 for us next year, and Sheek backing up the 5. If we're able to use roster spots that open up from other players leaving (Sean, Tre, Josh seem like the most likely candidates) in order to get a starting wing and a good combo guard, then Caedin sticking around isn't a big deal. He currently only plays because of Shaka's failure to bring in anything worth playing at the 5 behind Gold, and even then Royce sliding to the 5 is typically the move, and Caedin comes in only when foul trouble comes into play.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 09, 2026, 01:54:18 PMThere should be a transfer starting at the 5 for us next year, and Sheek backing up the 5. If we're able to use roster spots that open up from other players leaving (Sean, Tre, Josh seem like the most likely candidates) in order to get a starting wing and a good combo guard, then Caedin sticking around isn't a big deal. He currently only plays because of Shaka's failure to bring in anything worth playing at the 5 behind Gold, and even then Royce sliding to the 5 is typically the move, and Caedin comes in only when foul trouble comes into play.
Right on.
Quote from: hawk on March 09, 2026, 12:17:23 PMI like Hamilton. He has a great body and if anybody was paying attention, after Gold picked up #4 Hamilton came in and scored twice on nice plays got an assist and a rebound. Later missed a nice move to the hoop but the fould wasm't called. Players, escpecially big guys take time to develope. He's only a sophamore. YOu guys kicked Joplin around for a couple of years too. If Hamilton finds himself this off season he could be a real plus next season. Regardless Smart will get a starting center for next season. The 4/5 slots would look like this: portal guy, Parham to start. Hamilton/Clark back up 5 and Pearson backup 4. That's pretty big in the post. Owens starts at the 3 backed up by Egbouno. That's bigger and stronger than Ross. Looks like a promising baseline to me. It strikes me that Ross played out of position his whole career and was very good. Kudos to him but both Owens and Egbouno are 6'7" and Egbouno is a big kid at 220lbs..
Like Galway stated, he is classified as a sophomore, Hamilton has been in the program for three full years, including practicing during the summer months.
Just because a player has size, it doesn't mean his basketball skills are commensurate with his height. Joplin by the way, was 100% better player than Hamilton will ever be
What does "If Hamilton finds himself" mean? Is it improving his basketball skills, which he has tried for the past three seasons?
Another is just because Owens and Egbouno are bigger and stronger than Ross, doesn't guarantee improvement at the three slot. Owens has not developed as Shaka's main recruit two years ago, but he has promise and see what happens at the end of this year. Do like Egbouno's bulk, maybe help on boards, but the three slot will be interesting.
I have stated in the past, Hamiltons story is great. A zero star recruit who became a starter on a Big East basketball team, something he can reflect upon with his kids down the road. But, that's on Shaka for putting him in that role for not recruiting a viable bigman and the criticism of his play as a result. If he stays, I agree with various others, that he is a three minute a half player, giving a break for the starter.
This team needs a starting center, a backup PG to spell James and let's see what happens with Owens and the three spot. Few weeks for the fun to start.
Nobody seems to disagree about Hamilton here except Shaka and staff. The issue is when filling out this roster is if Shaka goes, 'well we can plug Hamilton in for 20 minutes, let's find the rest somewhere else'. He's clearly overestimated his ability the past two seasons, it's not a given he doesn't do it again.
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on March 09, 2026, 06:00:16 PMNobody seems to disagree about Hamilton here except Shaka and staff. The issue is when filling out this roster is if Shaka goes, 'well we can plug Hamilton in for 20 minutes, let's find the rest somewhere else'. He's clearly overestimated his ability the past two seasons, it's not a given he doesn't do it again.
The beautiful thing is that pretty soon we'll get to see what actually happens!
Quote from: MU82 on March 09, 2026, 12:47:06 PMHere's Matt Heldt's game log for 2018-19:
https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/players/max-heldt-1/gamelog/2019
He was an out-of-rotation backup big who served as an experienced insurance policy if a couple of guys got in foul trouble. That's an example of how Caedin could be used next season (and how he largely was used the second half of this season); if so, simply having him on the roster wouldn't doom Marquette to failure.
The trouble would be if Shaka thinks Caedin is more than that. But based on how he used Caedin since late December, Shaka knows exactly what Caedin is.
...but why keep him at all when you can find a better transfer. Let's see what happens in the off season.
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on March 09, 2026, 06:00:16 PMNobody seems to disagree about Hamilton here except Shaka and staff. The issue is when filling out this roster is if Shaka goes, 'well we can plug Hamilton in for 20 minutes, let's find the rest somewhere else'. He's clearly overestimated his ability the past two seasons, it's not a given he doesn't do it again.
Agree. Again Hamilton was rated 98th out of 99 Big East Players in an Efficiency Rating posted on this Site. And again we have been season ticket holders of four tickets for about 60 years and front row for over 20 years including the 2003 Final Four Year. Speaking to another Longtime Season Ticket Holder today who is on many Boards in the area. He said, what I have heard too, that many people are considering not renewing their season tickets if this losing continues. Not sure if this is a Scoop but we are at a stage where people are verbalizing this.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 09, 2026, 06:25:03 PM...but why keep him at all when you can find a better transfer. Let's see what happens in the off season.
I see the logic in having the absolute best players to fill out 15 spots, but I can also see some value in having a big body for scrimmages that is content with very little PT and is a good teammate.
Now if Hamilton is allowed to bleed off NIL funds that cost MU a player, then shame on Shaka. But it seems inconceivable that Shaka would jeopardize the team and maybe his job for a player like Hamilton.
Quote from: panda on March 09, 2026, 11:59:51 AMAside from taking 10,000 meaningless hook shots, Hamilton did nothing to earn his minutes. The only actual justification for Hamilton's minutes throughout the season could only be explained as Shaka "fan boying" for his teachers pet. You can point to the exact time we turned into a bubble team and it is when Hamilton departed the starting lineup/significant minutes and Parham started playing more.
He's done nothing to earn his spot on this roster other than his superb ability to collect EGB's.
I guess you and Shaka will just disagree.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on March 09, 2026, 07:01:07 PMAgree. Again Hamilton was rated 98th out of 99 Big East Players in an Efficiency Rating posted on this Site. And again we have been season ticket holders of four tickets for about 60 years and front row for over 20 years including the 2003 Final Four Year. Speaking to another Longtime Season Ticket Holder today who is on many Boards in the area. He said, what I have heard too, that many people are considering not renewing their season tickets if this losing continues. Not sure if this is a Scoop but we are at a stage where people are verbalizing this.
Don't renew. It has happened before and the program survived. So much drama after one disappointing season.
Quote from: 79Warrior on March 09, 2026, 07:06:27 PMDon't renew. It has happened before and the program survived. So much drama after one disappointing season.
Geez Did not say that. We are renewing. We are locked in and have renewed and supported the program since 1966 and probably more than most everyone. Maybe even You. If you want Marquette to win and succeed and profit, Losing Season ticket holders is not the best. Prefer to do more than survive. Would like to win, have fun and succeed.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 09, 2026, 07:02:25 PMI see the logic in having the absolute best players to fill out 15 spots, but I can also see some value in having a big body for scrimmages that is content with very little PT and is a good teammate.
Now if Hamilton is allowed to bleed off NIL funds that cost MU a player, then shame on Shaka. But it seems inconceivable that Shaka would jeopardize the team and maybe his job for a player like Hamilton.
If Hamilton wasn't publicly gassed up all offseason and early on by Shaka & subsequently didn't get way too many minutes for way too long, I don't believe anyone would have such strong feelings if he had this role. If he's on the team he should be nothing more than mop up duty, if he's cool with that and not soaking NIL as you mentioned that's fine, my guess is he's voluntold he's going elsewhere.
Quote from: 79Warrior on March 09, 2026, 07:04:08 PMI guess you and Shaka will just disagree.
Yep he got me !! He's laughing all the way to the portal this off season to overhaul his 19 loss team.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on March 09, 2026, 07:12:01 PMGeez Did not say that. We are renewing. We are locked in and have supported the program since 1966 and probably more than most everyone. Maybe even You. If you want Marquette to win and succeed and profit, Losing Season ticket holders is not the best. Prefer to do more than survive. Would like to win, have fun and succeed.
Some will leave when they lose. Some will come back when they win. No need to get angsty over it.
Quote from: Small Orange Soda on March 09, 2026, 06:00:16 PMNobody seems to disagree about Hamilton here except Shaka and staff. The issue is when filling out this roster is if Shaka goes, 'well we can plug Hamilton in for 20 minutes, let's find the rest somewhere else'. He's clearly overestimated his ability the past two seasons, it's not a given he doesn't do it again.
This might me the mental out Shaka needs to get a centrex from the portal. Not recruiting over Hamilton (Shaka thinking 20 minutes) and then the next venter gets here, plays well and Shaka wants to win. Might be good
Hopefully Shaka realizes that when he played NJ, AS, RP and CR all at max.minutes we beat the #4 team in the country. Gotta have your best players on the floor as much as possible - these are 19-22 year olds in peak physical conditions - they can all manage 35 min of max effort 2 times a week.
Quote from: 1SE on March 10, 2026, 01:08:25 AMHopefully Shaka realizes that when he played NJ, AS, RP and CR all at max.minutes we beat the #4 team in the country. Gotta have your best players on the floor as much as possible - these are 19-22 year olds in peak physical conditions - they can all manage 35 min of max effort 2 times a week.
It's very difficult to do that 4 days in a row though.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 09, 2026, 06:25:03 PM...but why keep him at all when you can find a better transfer. Let's see what happens in the off season.
Because you can't play 15 players ... so maybe you keep an experienced, hard-working young man who is liked by his teammates, and who can do something similar to what Matt Heldt did (or didn't do) in 2018-19?
Anyhoo, yes, let's see what happens in the offseason ... although I'm guessing you won't wait until then to bitch about the same things over and over and over again.
Quote from: MU82 on March 10, 2026, 11:02:05 AMBecause you can't play 15 players ... so maybe you keep an experienced, hard-working young man who is liked by his teammates, and who can do something similar to what Matt Heldt did (or didn't do) in 2018-19?
Anyhoo, yes, let's see what happens in the offseason ... although I'm guessing you won't wait until then to bitch about the same things over and over and over again.
You can say that about Tre, Josh, and Sean as well. I'll stop bitching when our "talent" starts winning games, but I guess that is too much to ask.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 10, 2026, 11:20:09 AMYou can say that about Tre, Josh, and Sean as well. I'll stop bitching when our "talent" starts winning games, but I guess that is too much to ask.
The subject wasn't Tre, Josh and Sean.
And I guess it was too much to ask for you to abide by your own suggestion to "Let's see what happens in the offseason."
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 10, 2026, 11:20:09 AMYou can say that about Tre, Josh, and Sean as well. I'll stop bitching when our "talent" starts winning games, but I guess that is too much to ask.
You bitch about everything from our basketball team, to Marquette not being Catholic enough to Marquette costing too much. So my guess is that you won't stop even with a national championship.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 10, 2026, 12:38:41 PMYou bitch about everything from our basketball team, to Marquette not being Catholic enough to Marquette costing too much. So my guess is that you won't stop even with a national championship.
It's not bitching when those criticisms about Marquette are absolutely true and have nothing to do with winning basketball games or a national championship.
Quote from: muwarrior69 on March 10, 2026, 01:34:10 PMIt's not bitching when those criticisms about Marquette are absolutely true and have nothing to do with winning basketball games or a national championship.
It's bitching.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on March 08, 2026, 08:24:08 PMSpoke with Adrien and Nigel Thursday for a few minutes. They seem to love Marquette and Marquette loves Adrien and Nigel.
Quote from: panda on March 08, 2026, 09:49:34 AMThe overarching point is if Shaka can't make serious roster additions to make us competitive next year, Nigel is a high risk to leave.
Not replacing hamilton's minutes this year with a competent player puts a low ceiling on our talent level for next season.
We need a couple of animal bangers down low.
Quote from: willie warrior on March 12, 2026, 07:33:19 PMWe need a couple of animal bangers down low.
That's extremely illegal.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 12, 2026, 07:35:54 PMThat's extremely illegal.
That's OK. They can be imported
RGV at it's finest. Best 3 players on the roster are two freshmen and a sophomore.
Quote from: wadesworld on March 12, 2026, 07:35:54 PMThat's extremely illegal.
Depends on the type of animal. Have you seen some of these Scoopers' wives?
Quote from: Jay Bee on March 12, 2026, 08:27:29 PMDepends on the type of animal. Have you seen some of these Scoopers' wives?
No wonder you're a single retired pickle baller.
Quote from: MarquetteMike1977 on March 09, 2026, 07:12:01 PMGeez Did not say that. We are renewing. We are locked in and have renewed and supported the program since 1966 and probably more than most everyone. Maybe even You. If you want Marquette to win and succeed and profit, Losing Season ticket holders is not the best. Prefer to do more than survive. Would like to win, have fun and succeed.
Agree and I believe you will see movement in the offseason. We are on the same page. Changes are coming.
Very excited to build around Niguel Wallace!
https://x.com/i/status/2031915220726063295
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 12, 2026, 11:36:58 PMVery excited to build around Niguel Wallace!
https://x.com/i/status/2031915220726063295
Doppelganger
Quote from: willie warrior on March 12, 2026, 07:33:19 PMWe need a couple of animal bangers down low.
You're a little on the old side, but very qualified.
Not sure the creatures are interested, though.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on March 12, 2026, 11:36:58 PMVery excited to build around Niguel Wallace!
https://x.com/i/status/2031915220726063295
Nice one white dick
Nigel And Damarius shooting on the court during timeout at the Bucks game today