I hope the STH's attend and I look forward to the recaps.
Quote from: tower912 on July 21, 2026, 05:13:00 PMI hope the STH's attend and I look forward to the recaps.
Can't wait for super fan, long-time season ticket holder and donor, Willie Warrior, to gives us his thoughts
Hope concessions are open.
#Pissed
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 21, 2026, 06:06:15 PMHope concessions are open.
#Pissed
Only poutine though to prep for the Canada trip.
Was the open practice tonight?
Thursday
I will be there, will provide updates.
-Bahama
Quote from: Bahama on July 22, 2026, 09:37:09 AMI will be there, will provide updates.
-Bahama
Make sure to wear your Negativity Hat. We only do doom & gloom around here.
Quote from: Jay Bee on July 22, 2026, 10:14:10 AMMake sure to wear your Negativity Hat. We only do doom & gloom around here.
Yep. Like talking about 18 over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on July 22, 2026, 10:16:41 AMYep. Like talking about 18 over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over.
18 overs. Well played.
Shaka answering questions tonight. If interested, I will submit serious questions and see if he responds.
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 22, 2026, 10:51:57 AMShaka answering questions tonight. If interested, I will submit serious questions and see if he responds.
You know, the one topic I've been shocked that he hasn't been asked about in his various offseaon interviews is Sheek's departure and it's timing.
I'm guessing that wouldn't get selected to be asked but would love to hear his thoughts on it and not replacing him.
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 22, 2026, 10:51:57 AMShaka answering questions tonight. If interested, I will submit serious questions and see if he responds.
Can you ask about Ian and Nash, please? They seem to always be forgotten or not talked about this offseason during other interviews/media stuff
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 22, 2026, 10:51:57 AMShaka answering questions tonight. If interested, I will submit serious questions and see if he responds.
In what venue/format?
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 22, 2026, 10:51:57 AMShaka answering questions tonight. If interested, I will submit serious questions and see if he responds.
As him specifically what Michael Phillips is showing that makes Shaka mention him in every interview.
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 22, 2026, 10:51:57 AMShaka answering questions tonight. If interested, I will submit serious questions and see if he responds.
I'm curious if we should anticipate any notable changes in the offense with Nevada Smith gone.
I just hope that they finally think of the children with these events. The lack of condiments available for consumption remains insulting.
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 22, 2026, 10:51:57 AMShaka answering questions tonight. If interested, I will submit serious questions and see if he responds.
Ask if he's worried this is the year Willie gives him a nickname from which he'll never recover
Thinking of calling Willie 'Canada'. Just spewing toxic smoke on the rest of us.
Quote from: tower912 on July 22, 2026, 11:12:00 AMIn what venue/format?
Opportunity to have your questions answered by Coach Shaka Smart!
I will submit all of these questions individually and keep you updated in the answers, if any.
They did this last year (two years ago maybe) and I think they picked the softball questions.....
Who is the biggest clown on the team, who is the best dancer, etc.
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 22, 2026, 01:24:37 PMOpportunity to have your questions answered by Coach Shaka Smart!
Ah. Thank you.
Still switching 1-5, or more drop coverages, a la Kalkbrenner?
I want to know how many hook shots 18 made this summer.
Quote from: WarriorFan on July 22, 2026, 02:08:20 PMI want to know how many hook shots 18 made this summer.
They'll be posting on instagram about it all October
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 22, 2026, 01:24:37 PMOpportunity to have your questions answered by Coach Shaka Smart!
Can you please ask him about DO's role this year and if we have enough wing shooters to open up even more space for Nigel to shred opposing defenses? Ty.
Quote from: swoopem on July 22, 2026, 11:06:32 AMCan you ask about Ian and Nash, please? They seem to always be forgotten or not talked about this offseason during other interviews/media stuff
Traditionals.
Quote from: Bahama on July 22, 2026, 09:37:09 AMI will be there, will provide updates.
-Bahama
Appreciate it, Bahama.
-Hards_Alumni
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on July 22, 2026, 10:16:41 AMYep. Like talking about 18 over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over.
18 doesn't usually get in JB's way, ya know. ;D
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 22, 2026, 10:51:57 AMShaka answering questions tonight. If interested, I will submit serious questions and see if he responds.
Has the Athletic Department made any arrangements to have the games in Canada streamed?
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on July 22, 2026, 10:16:41 AMYep. Like talking about 18 over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over.
Nah, that is how many hook shots he missed. ;D
Quote from: muwarrior69 on July 23, 2026, 08:08:51 AMHas the Athletic Department made any arrangements to have the games in Canada streamed?
They will not be streamed. There will be curated highlights and interviews
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 21, 2026, 06:06:15 PMHope concessions are open.
#Pissed
They will be. Anyone who loves maple syrup infused hotdogs, hamburgers, French fries, beer, and pizza will have an opportunity to pig out. Or hard-core syrupians can order maple syrup neat.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on July 23, 2026, 09:09:00 AMThey will be. Anyone who loves maple syrup infused hotdogs, hamburgers, French fries, beer, and pizza will have an opportunity to pig out. Or hard-core syrupians can order maple syrup neat.
https://tenor.com/5n60.gif
Still very early in the open practice, but Egbuonu is a UNIT. Dude has some solid finishing around the rim.
Minnesale really knows how to drive to the basket- which is what we brought him in for, but looks really solid.
Sunny Fru hasn't missed a layup, first play I saw 18 make was a missed 6 inch shot. Fru looks really solid with good composure and strength.
Michael Phillips - the one Shaka was really hyping up - does look excellent. Seems a lot more confident and has some crazy hops. Does look much improved though.
Chase Ross in attendance wearing a Lakers tee shirt.
"Inside linebacker masquerading as a basketball player" - direct quote in Shaka's introduction to Egbuonu.
Dude has 99% shoulders and 1% neck.
Quote from: Bahama on July 23, 2026, 06:07:03 PMStill very early in the open practice, but Egbuonu is a UNIT. Dude has some solid finishing around the rim.
Minnesale really knows how to drive to the basket- which is what we brought him in for, but looks really solid.
Sunny Fru hasn't missed a layup, first play I saw 18 make was a missed 6 inch shot. Fru looks really solid with good composure and strength.
Michael Phillips - the one Shaka was really hyping up - does look excellent. Seems a lot more confident and has some crazy hops. Does look much improved though.
Chase Ross in attendance wearing a Lakers tee shirt.
Outstanding Bahama! Ty for the synopsis!
https://x.com/joshlepak/status/2080432034409849035?s=61
Quote from: Bahama on July 23, 2026, 06:07:03 PMStill very early in the open practice, but Egbuonu is a UNIT. Dude has some solid finishing around the rim.
Minnesale really knows how to drive to the basket- which is what we brought him in for, but looks really solid.
Sunny Fru hasn't missed a layup, first play I saw 18 make was a missed 6 inch shot. Fru looks really solid with good composure and strength.
Michael Phillips - the one Shaka was really hyping up - does look excellent. Seems a lot more confident and has some crazy hops. Does look much improved though.
Chase Ross in attendance wearing a Lakers tee shirt.
6" is way outside Hamilton's range. It's up to the other guys to get him the ball closer to the hoop.
Clark looking a little more bulked up.
Seems less like Bambi in the headlights of a truck on i94 compared to last year.
18 defense looks better.
In early scrims, Stevens/Nigel pairing scoring a good portion of the points.
Parham on the opposing side has looked similar to last year form.
Phillips looking speedy in transition and off the ball.
Miletic and Nash Walker haven't been a huge factor. Nash had some good dishes around the rim (and quite a few missed 3s). Miletic was hardly noticeable.
Ethan Johnston a solid defender in game action, had some flashes on offense but not enough to sell me yet.
https://x.com/wisbbyearbook/status/2080437792128000300?s=61
Minnesale just robbed NJ at the top of the key into an open court. Raced down the backcourt for a dunk attempt.
NJ chased him down and stuffed it into the backboard.
Michael Phillips right behind the play for a putback dunk.
What's the hot dog situation?
Any male cheerleaders?
How's MPII doing defensively?
Quote from: Bahama on July 23, 2026, 06:45:26 PMMinnesale just robbed NJ at the top of the key into an open court. Raced down the backcourt for a dunk attempt.
NJ chased him down and stuffed it into the backboard.
Michael Phillips right behind the play for a putback dunk.
Minnesale apparently was unaware of Nigel's explosi
Quote from: Bahama on July 23, 2026, 06:39:41 PMClark looking a little more bulked up.
Seems less like Bambi in the headlights of a truck on i94 compared to last year.
18 defense looks better.
In early scrims, Stevens/Nigel pairing scoring a good portion of the points.
Parham on the opposing side has looked similar to last year form.
Phillips looking speedy in transition and off the ball.
Miletic and Nash Walker haven't been a huge factor. Nash had some good dishes around the rim (and quite a few missed 3s). Miletic was hardly noticeable.
Ethan Johnston a solid defender in game action, had some flashes on offense but not enough to sell me yet.
What's your overall impression of Minnesale? Ty.
Quote from: Bahama on July 23, 2026, 06:11:22 PM"Inside linebacker masquerading as a basketball player" - direct quote in Shaka's introduction to Egbuonu.
Dude has 99% shoulders and 1% neck.
Herm doesn't like that ratio.
Quote from: MuMark on July 23, 2026, 06:43:50 PMhttps://x.com/wisbbyearbook/status/2080437792128000300?s=61
Mark Miller writes: "Sophomore Michael Phillips (6-6) is up to 215 pounds. Smooth jumper and bouncy in lobs. Will battle for starting spot for Marquette."
Who would Phillips be battling and beating out for a starting spot? Not Parham. I suppose Owens, who might be the most "vulnerable" among the presumed starting five.
Thank you.
Quote from: mug644 on July 23, 2026, 08:44:09 PMMark Miller writes: "Sophomore Michael Phillips (6-6) is up to 215 pounds. Smooth jumper and bouncy in lobs. Will battle for starting spot for Marquette."
Who would Phillips be battling and beating out for a starting spot? Not Parham. I suppose Owens, who might be the most "vulnerable" among the presumed starting five.
Uhhhh....BAM!
Quote from: Uncle Rico on July 23, 2026, 07:05:35 PMWhat's the hot dog situation?
they had hotdogs - wife had one and LOL'd a bit.
Bahama makes some great points.
Nolan is ahead of DO.
Nash has a beautiful release...shoulder still hurting.
JC is stronger, bigger.
Adrien seems ready for the next step.
Sunny can shoot the three.
18 was 18.
IMO, Ian is outmatched and will have an uphill battle....may be last year here.
Ethan was impressive for someone with little attention.
I don't know what to think of Alex.....huge upper body.
JB—MP more confident overall, yet still a half step slow on reaction D.
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 23, 2026, 09:13:02 PMBahama makes some great points.
Nolan is ahead of DO.
Nash has a beautiful release...shoulder still hurting.
JC is stronger, bigger.
Adrien seems ready for the next step.
Sunny can shoot the three.
18 was 18.
IMO, Ian is outmatched and will have an uphill battle....may be last year here.
Ethan was impressive for someone with little attention.
I don't know what to think of Alex.....huge upper body.
JB—MP more confident overall, yet still a half step slow on reaction D.
Tyvm.
Quote from: mug644 on July 23, 2026, 08:44:09 PMMark Miller writes: "Sophomore Michael Phillips (6-6) is up to 215 pounds. Smooth jumper and bouncy in lobs. Will battle for starting spot for Marquette."
Who would Phillips be battling and beating out for a starting spot? Not Parham. I suppose Owens, who might be the most "vulnerable" among the presumed starting five.
Four starters locked in. NM, MP, and DO for the fifth
Not much mention of Owens.
Nolan handled the ball well ... he can play the 1, 2 or 3. Liked his overall game. Plays fluid and athletic. Fru is a bit thinner than I expected ... has the tools to be active and agile. Impressed by what Clark did for much of the scrimmage. Seems to have filled out and is bouncy ... had a number of lobs and put back dunks. Phillips played well ... seems more confident and played with abandon for much of the scrimmage. NJ is unbelievable ... the quickest player MU has had in long, long time. Stevens was solid.
Owens was really good towards the end. Was on the team with Nigel and Stevens so he didnt get a ton of chances on ball. But he does well playing off them as a spot up shooter and cutter. Was very locked in defensively on ball as well.
So how do you see the rotation?
Starters: Nigel, Stevens, Owens/Minnesale, Royce, Fru
Rotation: Minnesale/Owens, Phillips, Hamilton, Johnston
Not sure yet: Clark, Egbuonu
Deep Bench: Miletic, Walker
Based on watching them play today and how the coaches rotated them through the scrimmages today.
any PISSED kids?
Quote from: MUbiz on July 23, 2026, 09:04:49 PMthey had hotdogs - wife had one and LOL'd a bit.
Quote from: MUbiz on July 23, 2026, 09:04:49 PMthey had hotdogs - wife had one and LOL'd a bit.
TMI
I am a bit miffed at the Nolan love. I counted 5 turnovers he made and he was 0/5 from 3 in scrimmage. He also did not use his left hand at all and Stevens realized it and stole it from Nolan.
Nolan was also blocked underneath the basket and then later had a steal and NJ chased Nolan down and rejected Nolans dunk . (Insane block)
There is a lot of room for improvement if you ask me. I think Owens starts the season and Nolan is a bench guy.
Good thread from one attendee:
https://x.com/i/status/2080477873136087513
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on July 23, 2026, 11:30:02 PMGood thread from one attendee:
https://x.com/i/status/2080477873136087513
Dr. Tyler was surely wearing some blue and gold glasses.
As long as Dr. Kolek isn't a dentist, we can assume he knows ball.
Quote from: MU82 on July 24, 2026, 12:40:36 AMAs long as Dr. Kolek isn't a dentist, we can assume he knows ball.
He did go out in public into the scary world, so probably not a dentist.
Quote from: MuggsyB on July 23, 2026, 07:53:36 PMMinnesale apparently was unaware of Nigel's explosi
What's your overall impression of Minnesale? Ty.
Minessale relentless at both ends of the court. Terrific driver and passer, moves well on defense, equally good at both guard spots. Very polished. Only criticism is he's a little too eager to take 3-pointers, which don't appear to be his strength. Great pickup.
Quote from: MuggsyB on July 23, 2026, 07:53:36 PMMinnesale apparently was unaware of Nigel's explosi
What's your overall impression of Minnesale? Ty.
I think he will easily run the floor while NJ is taking a breather on the bench. He definitely has the ability to drive the basket in a similar fashion to how Ross did in previous seasons. I could even see them both on the floor simultaneously to free each other up in the pick n roll.
He's got some good playmaking ability, and is really good with a layup going to the left and finishing with his right hand.
I almost view him currently as what we hoped Sean Jones would've been last year...obviously that was not the case
Josh Clark up to 250 lbs per Shaka. Forgot to report that. So slightly improved Slenderman build.
Quote from: JoanofArcMascot on July 24, 2026, 01:53:32 AMMinessale relentless at both ends of the court. Terrific driver and passer, moves well on defense, equally hood at both guard spots. Very polished. Only criticism is he's a little too eager to take 3-pointers, which don't appear to be his strength. Great pickup.
Nice!
Quote from: JTJ3 on July 23, 2026, 10:05:01 PMOwens was really good towards the end. Was on the team with Nigel and Stevens so he didnt get a ton of chances on ball. But he does well playing off them as a spot up shooter and cutter. Was very locked in defensively on ball as well.
Yeah that last scrimmage he locked in,, I admittedly was concerned with his lack of involvement early on. Everyone was gassed towards the end, but it seems Nigel/Stevens/Owens just had more drive and stamina then the rest of the crew. I can see Owens being similar to how he was last year - a few games where he is lights out, few games where he is not a factor. Which is why I think the posts about his starting position being in question is valid. I can see him starting, but being quickly subbed out at the 12 min or 16 minute mark for MP or NM.
Quote from: mug644 on July 24, 2026, 12:24:30 AMDr. Tyler was surely wearing some blue and gold glasses.
He's a bit hyperbolic at times, but I appreciated that he took time to mention every player.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on July 24, 2026, 07:56:54 AMHe's a bit hyperbolic at times, but I appreciated that he took time to mention every player.
Yeah, he was definitely wearing rose-colored glasses. I would just caution people about making too many assumptions, either positively or negatively, based on one intra-squad scrimmage.
Quote from: The Sultan on July 24, 2026, 08:03:47 AMYeah, he was definitely wearing rose-colored glasses. I would just caution people about making too many assumptions, either positively or negatively, based on one intra-squad scrimmage.
Sounds like we suck again.
I appreciate all of the observations posted here. Here's how I feel the roster currently stacks up:
Tier 1
James
Stevens
Parham
Fru
Locked in starters
Tier 2
Owens
Minessale
Phillips
5th starter and main rotation players. 5th starter spot might be fluid until one player separates themselves early in the season.
Tier 3
Clark
Hamilton
This is based more on positional need than straight talent. What can they provide besides 10 fouls? TBD.
Tier 4
Johnston
Walker
Two specialists who might earn spot minutes. Johnston for defense, Walker for shooting.
Tier 5
Egbuonu
Miletic
Crowdis
EGB is physically ready, but his game is still raw, especially on defense. Probably a year away.
Miletic, still a work in progress.
Crowdis, scout team PG. If he becomes more than that in the future, it's a bonus.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on July 24, 2026, 08:14:38 AMSounds like we suck again.
I wouldn't go that far. Did it look like Tyler, Oso, and Kam were out there last night? Definitely not. But it also didn't look anywhere near as bad as last year. And with roughly 100 days before the season starts, there's plenty of time to clean things up.
I was at the practice, and the takes I'm seeing on social media are wild. I'm a positive guy, but some of what's being posted is straight-up embellishment, to put it nicely.
Quote from: The Sultan on July 24, 2026, 08:03:47 AMYeah, he was definitely wearing rose-colored glasses. I would just caution people about making too many assumptions, either positively or negatively, based on one intra-squad scrimmage.
Well, obviously. There were people calling Dameon Mason a future 1st round pick, and Jimmy Butler a wasted scholarship, after one scrimmage. We all know how that turned out.
Quote from: Juan Anderson's Mixtape on July 24, 2026, 08:20:31 AMI appreciate all of the observations posted here. Here's how I feel the roster currently stacks up:
Tier 1
James
Stevens
Parham
Fru
Locked in starters
Tier 2
Owens
Minessale
Phillips
5th starter and main rotation players. 5th starter spot might be fluid until one player separates themselves early in the season.
Tier 3
Clark
Hamilton
This is based more on positional need than straight talent. What can they provide besides 10 fouls? TBD.
Tier 4
Johnston
Walker
Two specialists who might earn spot minutes. Johnston for defense, Walker for shooting.
Tier 5
Egbuonu
Miletic
Crowdis
EGB is physically ready, but his game is still raw, especially on defense. Probably a year away.
Miletic, still a work in progress.
Crowdis, scout team PG. If he becomes more than that in the future, it's a bonus.
I agree with most of this. Obviously very early in the offseason to draw any conclusions - however I think EGB could easily be in Tier 4 if he works on his stamina.
Quote from: The Sultan on July 24, 2026, 08:03:47 AMYeah, he was definitely wearing rose-colored glasses. I would just caution people about making too many assumptions, either positively or negatively, based on one intra-squad scrimmage.
He posted his thoughts after being at the scrimmage. Did he say we're a Final 4 team? No. The only assumption he or anyone should make at this juncture is that Fluffy/Sultan is always negative about MU hoops.
To me, the various observations make it sound like this is a team with potential. A team with length, a team with athleticism, a team with a lot of interesting switchables, a team with a clear leader.
I am looking forward to seeing how it all comes together.
Quote from: MuggsyB on July 24, 2026, 08:36:43 AMHe posted his thoughts after being at the scrimmage. Did he say we're a Final 4 team? No. The only assumption he or anyone should make at this juncture is that Fluffy/Sultan is always negative about MU hoops.
I'm waiting for Willie's report. As a 90 year season ticket holder, I'm sure he was there last night and has some thoughts.
Quote from: MuggsyB on July 24, 2026, 08:36:43 AMHe posted his thoughts after being at the scrimmage. Did he say we're a Final 4 team? No. The only assumption he or anyone should make at this juncture is that Fluffy/Sultan is always negative about MU hoops.
LOL. Learn to read.
Gonna be hard to RGV when the whole lottery will be the Marquette roster
Was a tough season for the campus bar - Murphy's. Stopped by after the open practice.
Students reportedly have ripped the porcelain toilet out of the ground twice in the last 12 months - crapter privileges have been revoked in one of the stalls, as it is currently sitting there - crapter-less.
The windows above the urinals that look into the bar have also been boarded up after one of them was smashed, and the other pushed through entirely.
Per the bartender, Students last year gave up very early (attendance at the games supported such), and many turned against the team talking down on them. perhaps the Willie virus has spread to the water supply off Kilbourn.
They are spoiled rotten. I was happy to watch us get our crap kicked in by a Myke Henry DePaul squad at the Bradley center, and still come back the next game.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on July 24, 2026, 08:43:09 AMI'm waiting for Willie's report. As a 90 year season ticket holder, I'm sure he was there last night and has some thoughts.
He's workshopping insulting nicknames for the new guys as we speak.
Quote from: tower912 on July 24, 2026, 08:42:27 AMTo me, the various observations make it sound like this is a team with potential. A team with length, a team with athleticism, a team with a lot of interesting switchables, a team with a clear leader.
I am looking forward to seeing how it all comes together.
Only from what I read too, I agree. The starters sound very good. Depth seems to be at best a question mark but possibly a known problem. Has the feel of a solid bubble team. I will trust the process. Next year will be our year :)
Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday next week. Everybody stay healthy, enjoy the team building.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on July 24, 2026, 09:43:14 AMOnly from what I read too, I agree. The starters sound very good. Depth seems to be at best a question mark but possibly a known problem. Has the feel of a solid bubble team. I will trust the process. Next year will be our year :)
I liked the comments from Dr. Tyler Kolelk, Phd. The vulnerabilities will show up in season. I'm sure he saw them but wisely kept silent. Nothing wrong with happy talk during the first peek at this season's team.
Quote from: Bahama on July 24, 2026, 09:38:14 AMWas a tough season for the campus bar - Murphy's. Stopped by after the open practice.
Students reportedly have ripped the porcelain toilet out of the ground twice in the last 12 months - crapter privileges have been revoked in one of the stalls, as it is currently sitting there - crapter-less.
The windows above the urinals that look into the bar have also been boarded up after one of them was smashed, and the other pushed through entirely.
Per the bartender, Students last year gave up very early (attendance at the games supported such), and many turned against the team talking down on them. perhaps the Willie virus has spread to the water supply off Kilbourn.
They are spoiled rotten. I was happy to watch us get our crap kicked in by a Myke Henry DePaul squad at the Bradley center, and still come back the next game.
Ownership hasn't taken care of that place since I graduated two decades ago. Last time I was in there, everything was the same but in terrible disrepair and everything was kinda... gross.
There are no nice bars on campus... just the way Marquette likes it.
To be fair, 40 years ago there weren't any 'nice' bars, either. But they were ours and we loved them.
Thanks to all for the in-person observations. I summarized them for my MU hoops text-chain buddies and they're appreciative, too.
Quote from: tower912 on July 24, 2026, 11:01:27 AMTo be fair, 40 years ago there weren't any 'nice' bars, either. But they were ours and we loved them.
If they all fall apart, Marquette can point to that being bad and then force them to close.
Cafs and Murphs were not always dumps.
Quote from: tower912 on July 24, 2026, 11:01:27 AMTo be fair, 40 years ago there weren't any 'nice' bars, either. But they were ours and we loved them.
RIP Heg's pub.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on July 24, 2026, 11:12:47 AMIf they all fall apart, Marquette can point to that being bad and then force them to close.
Cafs and Murphs were not always dumps.
This is correct - Murphy's was "Playboys college bar of the month" in September 2005 iirc.
https://onmilwaukee.com/articles/murphyplayboy
Quote from: Hards Alumni on July 24, 2026, 10:56:03 AMOwnership hasn't taken care of that place since I graduated two decades ago. Last time I was in there, everything was the same but in terrible disrepair and everything was kinda... gross.
There are no nice bars on campus... just the way Marquette likes it.
I think caffs is decent enough, Murphys is a hole. The funny thing about the no nice bars comment is that Murphys and Caffreys used to be the "nice bars" then fr Wild and Pillarz got all the old spots shutdown Heg's, Angelo's, Harp & Sham, etc. and now Murphys is likely next on the chopping block
Long live Murphy's
The lack of bars on campus is sad but I know that's what the university wants
#BringBackAngelos
Quote from: The Sultan on July 24, 2026, 08:03:47 AMI would just caution people about making too many assumptions, either positively or negatively, based on one intra-squad scrimmage.
I was curious enough to look up what reactions were after last year's scrimmage. Thread here:
https://www.muscoop.com/index.php?topic=67233.0
No super hot takes but some early impressions of Stevens and James (in limited action) that held true. The thoughts on Clark could largely be copy/pasted to 2026. Lots of Tre bashing.
Shaka interview after the open practice:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voLKPwJ_spI
Says now is the time for Owens to step up. Needs to play with a nastiness about him.
DO and MPII are the x-factors, which I think we can all agree on.
Also some comments on Clark. At 250 - says he could eventually put on another 25 lbs. Says big men take longer and it's easy to give up too soon - used Oso as an example. Said if he played 20 MPG he could develop but they need to win so that development has to come first. You can sense frustration with optimism.
I think Oso is a bad comparison. Didn't play freshman year but in his second year was a very adequate backup to Kur. The talent and athleticism were apparent. Then the following year he took off. Apples to Oranges.
I hope Clark has a year like Oso's third year in the program but I don't think that will happen.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on July 24, 2026, 04:39:44 PMI think Oso is a bad comparison. Didn't play freshman year but in his second year was a very adequate backup to Kur. The talent and athleticism were apparent. Then the following year he took off. Apples to Oranges.
I hope Clark has a year like Oso's third year in the program but I don't think that will happen.
It wasn't remotely a direct comparison. He was simply stating that Clark still has an opportunity to become a productive player even thought his contributions have been minimal thus far.
What VBMG said. Shaka never even suggested that Clark could be the next Oso or that he was on the same developmental timeline as Oso was. Shaka simply used Oso as an example of a 5 who took time to develop.
Quote from: MU82 on July 24, 2026, 05:42:48 PMWhat VBMG said. Shaka never even suggested that Clark could be the next Oso or that he was on the same developmental timeline as Oso was. Shaka simply used Oso as an example of a 5 who took time to develop.
I remember posting about an impressive performance by Josh in
one game last season and then you replied and agreed. It was not a lot of playing time or a typical performance, but he had
one really nice game. And
THEN...the sh!t hit the fan. One scooper in particular simply was
not having it. We were pretty much accused of saying that Clark was a really good player.
Wash, rinse, repeat. Once again, a scooper is insisting upon twisting a comment about Clark to fit his personal opinion.
Quote from: tower912 on July 24, 2026, 11:01:27 AMTo be fair, 40 years ago there weren't any 'nice' bars, either. But they were ours and we loved them.
I remember the Avalanche and then my favorite was Calahans. It was on the corner of 15th and Clybourn just south of the Weir Life Science Building. It was actually nice inside. On St. Patrick's day they had nickle beer and your date went free.
Quote from: JTJ3 on July 23, 2026, 10:09:42 PMStarters: Nigel, Stevens, Owens/Minnesale, Royce, Fru
Rotation: Minnesale/Owens, Phillips, Hamilton, Johnston
Not sure yet: Clark, Egbuonu
Deep Bench: Miletic, Walker
Based on watching them play today and how the coaches rotated them through the scrimmages today.
Clark played more minutes than Hamilton and was far better. Not sure how anyone could watch that and put Hamilton ahead of Clark.
Quote from: JoanofArcMascot on July 24, 2026, 10:24:17 PMClark played more minutes than Hamilton and was far better. Not sure how anyone could watch that and put Hamilton ahead of Clark.
Remember who the HC is.
Quote from: MU82 on July 24, 2026, 05:42:48 PMWhat VBMG said. Shaka never even suggested that Clark could be the next Oso or that he was on the same developmental timeline as Oso was. Shaka simply used Oso as an example of a 5 who took time to develop.
Easy to complain when you don't actually listen to what he said.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on July 24, 2026, 08:10:05 PMI remember posting about an impressive performance by Josh in one game last season and then you replied and agreed. It was not a lot of playing time or a typical performance, but he had one really nice game. And THEN...the sh!t hit the fan. One scooper in particular simply was not having it. We were pretty much accused of saying that Clark was a really good player.
Wash, rinse, repeat. Once again, a scooper is insisting upon twisting a comment about Clark to fit his personal opinion.
Ha! Not sure it's like that at all. Hope Clark develops (as all players do to some degree) into an impact player. The point is it seems a little over the top to mention Oso who was, at baseline, way more talented than him. Clark showed flashes (small e in epiphany) last year of filling a role that can be very valuable. Rebounder, rim protector and dunker. Hope he does really well. If you look at your and 82s posts about him last year I likely agreed with you.
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on July 25, 2026, 04:36:25 AMHa! Not sure it's like that at all. Hope Clark develops (as all players do to some degree) into an impact player. The point is it seems a little over the top to mention Oso who was, at baseline, way more talented than him. Clark showed flashes (small e in epiphany) last year of filling a role that can be very valuable. Rebounder, rim protector and dunker. Hope he does really well. If you look at your and 82s posts about him last year I likely agreed with you.
Fair enough. Where we differ is in the comparison to Oso. I think the point was it was simply that bigs typically take a while. And Shaka in "happy talk" mode in a presser is exactly where he should be after the first public scrimmage of the year. We both hope Clark "does well".
I would like to see Josh develop to the point where he earns the slot to be Fru's backup rather than (oh, I better not mention his name as it will trigger JayBee) ;D . Josh has a long way to go. Imagine an opponent enroute to the basket colliding with him, especially if he adds 25 more pounds. What's not to like? ;D
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on July 24, 2026, 04:39:44 PMI think Oso is a bad comparison. Didn't play freshman year but in his second year was a very adequate backup to Kur. The talent and athleticism were apparent. Then the following year he took off. Apples to Oranges.
I hope Clark has a year like Oso's third year in the program but I don't think that will happen.
I'd love Clark to have a year like Oso's 2nd year in the program. If he could average 3-4 points efficiently over 10 MPG that'd be a win and give me hope he'd double that as Jr and be a legitimate starter candidate as a Sr
Agreed it would be nice. If he is truly lagging only one year behind Oso's productivity (year 3 Clark vs year 2 Oso) but continues that trajectory it will be a huge bonus.
Quote from: swoopem on July 24, 2026, 12:39:47 PMThe lack of bars on campus is sad but I know that's what the university wants
#BringBackAngeBloWs
(https://media1.giphy.com/media/v1.Y2lkPTZjMDliOTUycjcydXZvbWtvcmFuOXdwNWp5cWNzMGFmeDRsOHBocmE1MjNkNTZyeCZlcD12MV9naWZzX3NlYXJjaCZjdD1n/k10R0bgUhNMtO/giphy.gif)
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on July 25, 2026, 04:36:25 AMHa! Not sure it's like that at all. Hope Clark develops (as all players do to some degree) into an impact player. The point is it seems a little over the top to mention Oso who was, at baseline, way more talented than him. Clark showed flashes (small e in epiphany) last year of filling a role that can be very valuable. Rebounder, rim protector and dunker. Hope he does really well. If you look at your and 82s posts about him last year I likely agreed with you.
You're still not getting it.
Hey fellas, and chick if she's still on the board. I went up for practice last week in Mequon (Al court was sweating) and sent my thoughts to a couple people. Wasn't worth starting my own thread (s/o Muggsy) but worth it to add here.
- Nigel is such a stud. Has gotten stronger, always making great reads, didn't see many 3's but hopefully that becomes more consistent to go with his rim finishes.
- The Nigel-Fru connection could be fantastic. Lobs, PNR, post feeds. Fru is really quiet and a bit passive though and I'm sure that's personality/newness to team, but Shaka really pushed for him to speak up and be heard. Fantastic hands, good defense.
- Adrien and Nolan look like the next-in-line ball handlers. Adrien and Royce clearly the 2nd/3rd steady hands that will be consistent for us.
- I'll be curious who stands up to be our vocal leaders. With Kolek, Oso, Kam, Stevie I took for granted having incredible leaders at the top. We saw how much that screwed us last year with Chase and Ben being total duds on that front. Nice guys, awful leaders. Shaka was constantly pushing for vocal leadership. Nigel and Royce looked like and should be the logical choices to keep guys in line. Caedin is a total zero BUT...he does bring energy and hype and on a team of young-to-passive leaders, I do think it's important for this group. Sad as that is.
- Egbuonu really struggled, he was terrible. Looked too heavy and way too slow. No confidence that day. Shaka laid into him ad nauseum. To be expected but I was as unimpressed as I could be which is a shame. He'll get much better, sounds like the scrimmage was an improvement.
- If Ethan Johnston can get some consistency with his offense and shot, he could be VERY interesting. He's so long and athletic, he was in passing lanes and making defensive stops left and right. Was disruptive with Nigel on multiple occasions. We all know that's the first indicator to be PT ready. Really encouraging.
- Damarius and (less so) Ian are the wildcards for me. DO keeps making strides, hopefully he makes that jump as our go-to 6th/7th man. But I thought the back half of last season was that springboard and he kinda plateaued. Ian is no doubt the best non-Phillips shooter on the team, would love for him to show flashes, but sounded like the scrimmage was meh.
- Michael Phillips stood out as my most impressive player today. By far. Shot is pure as ever, but he's put on a LOT of muscle. And his athleticism can be jaw dropping too, ala Jamal Cain. He JAMMED on Adrien (?) and soared for a block on Ian where he actually landed very scarily. Head at the rim. Got up and kept pushing. I'm so glad Mark Miller and others felt the same.
- If he can improve his handles and gain confidence going to the rim, he could be really REALLY good. My most exciting development at practice.
- Minessale I didn't get a real read on. Looks like he can be a Tyler Lockett 2.0 as more of a ball handler and is just a solid rotation piece every good team needs.
- Josh Clark will look absolutely pathetic one possession, then look like an NBA talent the next. Shaka even made a comment like "that face you make when I get on you for getting boxed out by CB (GA Cam Brown) is why you're not good". Hatt was on him hard. But he responded and had some nice moments.
- Crowdis looks like a walk-on to me. Basically Fran Fraschila's "he's 2 years away from being 2 years away". If he ever plays here I'd be stunned.
- Nash I hear all these things about from people on the board but haven't seen anything from the guy. Didn't do anything the day I was there.
- Shaka was as fiery and animated as I've ever seen him. Getting on guys constantly, hammering mistakes, lighting people up, but still showing the love and support we all know during good plays. Any thoughts the guy is checked out (a valid concern last season) are just flat out wrong.
- Hope to make it up for another practice this summer.
Nice post onepost, thanks for sharing.
One concern that keeps coming up in my mind, you made a comment on in that post
"Hopefully he makes that jump as our 6th/7th man" in regards to Damarius.
I understand the comment, and, not to put words into your mouth but it seems like you are saying Damarius' ceiling could be a very nice 6th man role, or even 2nd off the bench.
I'm not disagreeing, I'm just having a hard time finding 5/6 better players on this Marquette squad, and that could be a problem.
I agree that what we've seen from DO should be a 6th/7th man quality piece, at least in an elite year like Marquette had with the b2b 2 seeds.
Problem is, I count NJ, Royce, Fru as the 3 players this years team can count on as good to great BE players- you include Adrien, and again I won't doubt it but it's no sure thing that he will take the step into elite status.
If NJ and Royce don't fill those lofty expectations I think Marquette is f'ed. As for Sunny- no offense to the young man because I have never really seen him play and I'm sure he's a good player give his track record with the national team and what he showed last year- but he will/should be a product of Nigel's stardom. He should be able to fall out of bed and get 12-14pts on dunks and layups, and I think Shaka knows it would be very hard for Fru to not get the numbers he's looking for at the 5 given his abilities that you mentioned.
That's not to downplay Fru, just to say that he should be locked into a hopefully foolproof star role if Nigel is who we hope he is.
So then you've got the others.
— Adrien is a sophomore like NJ, so to expect an elite BE player, although possible, seems like a stretch. I'd be shocked if he wasn't an elite BE player as an upperclassmen, but would also be slightly surprised if he hit that level as a 2nd year player.
—Love the MikePhill hype, and he's got all the things you'd want- athleticism, great looking shot, improving motor and familiarity/comfort with the game, etc, but again would be surprising if he was much better than a very good 6th man. If the game slows down enough for him he will be a good/great BE starter years 3/4.
—Nolan sounds like a solid addition, and from things I've read (haven't seen him much) I get the feeling that guys like him find a way to make a difference, but again he's not going to knock down the door in year 1 at MU
So, if the above holds true I'd really beg and plead that a guy like DO is a solid starter and major difference maker, and it just seems like unfortunately we aren't there yet. Hopefully it clicks and when the bright lights come on it's there, because I think this years team might need it.
Either way, this is a long winded way of saying that if a guy like DO is considered a good 6th/7th man you'd better have 5/6 other guys that are ready to be better, and I just don't know that this years team has it.
1-3 ok, sign me up. After that, at least at this early stage, and I'm still looking for more. Hopefully Adrien locks up that 4th bonafide good BE starter (not good enough, but good) and then we just need to worry about 5-7 guys.
Additionally- love the stuff in reading about Ethan, but a bit bummed about Ian, Nash, Egbuonu at this stage. Ian especially, after a RS year, I would've hoped could become a sniper that gets minutes.
Like what I'm reading about Josh- I'd like for him to bypass Caedin on the pecking order and find a way to make a difference so that when Sunny leaves it's not bare at the 5.
Still can't believe Shaka didn't bring in a wing scorer. This years team needs it badly, and it'll show quickly. Could've been a 2G that plays at the 3, or a 3/4 that plays smaller, but just a dude that can get buckets. That would've taken a ton of pressure off of Nigel and let him do his thing, while not having to take on the role of doing everything. There is little chance that DO/MikePhill/NolanMinn can become elite scorers this season, so Adrien will have to really learn how to get a lot of buckets very fast.
Quote from: DoctorV on July 25, 2026, 10:57:19 PMNice post onepost, thanks for sharing.
One concern that keeps coming up in my mind, you made a comment on in that post
"Hopefully he makes that jump as our 6th/7th man" in regards to Damarius.
I understand the comment, and, not to put words into your mouth but it seems like you are saying Damarius' ceiling could be a very nice 6th man role, or even 2nd off the bench.
I'm not disagreeing, I'm just having a hard time finding 5/6 better players on this Marquette squad, and that could be a problem.
I agree that what we've seen from DO should be a 6th/7th man quality piece, at least in an elite year like Marquette had with the b2b 2 seeds.
Problem is, I count NJ, Royce, Fru as the 3 players this years team can count on as good to great BE players- you include Adrien, and again I won't doubt it but it's no sure thing that he will take the step into elite status.
If NJ and Royce don't fill those lofty expectations I think Marquette is f'ed. As for Sunny- no offense to the young man because I have never really seen him play and I'm sure he's a good player give his track record with the national team and what he showed last year- but he will/should be a product of Nigel's stardom. He should be able to fall out of bed and get 12-14pts on dunks and layups, and I think Shaka knows it would be very hard for Fru to not get the numbers he's looking for at the 5 given his abilities that you mentioned.
That's not to downplay Fru, just to say that he should be locked into a hopefully foolproof star role if Nigel is who we hope he is.
So then you've got the others.
— Adrien is a sophomore like NJ, so to expect an elite BE player, although possible, seems like a stretch. I'd be shocked if he wasn't an elite BE player as an upperclassmen, but would also be slightly surprised if he hit that level as a 2nd year player.
—Love the MikePhill hype, and he's got all the things you'd want- athleticism, great looking shot, improving motor and familiarity/comfort with the game, etc, but again would be surprising if he was much better than a very good 6th man. If the game slows down enough for him he will be a good/great BE starter years 3/4.
—Nolan sounds like a solid addition, and from things I've read (haven't seen him much) I get the feeling that guys like him find a way to make a difference, but again he's not going to knock down the door in year 1 at MU
So, if the above holds true I'd really beg and plead that a guy like DO is a solid starter and major difference maker, and it just seems like unfortunately we aren't there yet. Hopefully it clicks and when the bright lights come on it's there, because I think this years team might need it.
Either way, this is a long winded way of saying that if a guy like DO is considered a good 6th/7th man you'd better have 5/6 other guys that are ready to be better, and I just don't know that this years team has it.
1-3 ok, sign me up. After that, at least at this early stage, and I'm still looking for more. Hopefully Adrien locks up that 4th bonafide good BE starter (not good enough, but good) and then we just need to worry about 5-7 guys.
Additionally- love the stuff in reading about Ethan, but a bit bummed about Ian, Nash, Egbuonu at this stage. Ian especially, after a RS year, I would've hoped could become a sniper that gets minutes.
Like what I'm reading about Josh- I'd like for him to bypass Caedin on the pecking order and find a way to make a difference so that when Sunny leaves it's not bare at the 5.
Still can't believe Shaka didn't bring in a wing scorer. This years team needs it badly, and it'll show quickly. Could've been a 2G that plays at the 3, or a 3/4 that plays smaller, but just a dude that can get buckets. That would've taken a ton of pressure off of Nigel and let him do his thing, while not having to take on the role of doing everything. There is little chance that DO/MikePhill/NolanMinn can become elite scorers this season, so Adrien will have to really learn how to get a lot of buckets very fast.
The good news is nobody has 5 starters that are "elite." Nigel, Fru, and Parham should all be competing for some level of All Big East teams. If you have starters 4 and 5 also competing for All BE awards, you're probably winning the BE by multiple games.
And sounds like you wish Shaka would've got, well, Nolan Minnesale in the portal. A 20 ppg portal player who plays off the ball but can play on it when Nigel goes to the bench.
Quote from: Vander Blue Man Group on July 25, 2026, 09:23:02 PMYou're still not getting it.
Oh Lord. I don't think you are either. Give it a rest.
Marquette has had many teams with great athletes, but would lose because they couldn't score - whether missing free throws, threes or six inch shots. To win we need to score more than opponents. That simple.
Quote from: Stretchdeltsig on July 26, 2026, 07:39:31 AMMarquette has had many teams with great athletes, but would lose because they couldn't score - whether missing free throws, threes or six inch shots. To win we need to score more than opponents. That simple.
I don't think that's true.
Quote from: Stretchdeltsig on July 26, 2026, 07:39:31 AMMarquette has had many teams with great athletes, but would lose because they couldn't score - whether missing free throws, threes or six inch shots. To win we need to score more than opponents. That simple.
Bring back Markus, Sam, and Joey!
I mean, bring back the Deane days with games routinely in the 50's!
Quote from: Shooter McGavin on July 26, 2026, 06:45:12 AMOh Lord. I don't think you are either. Give it a rest.
I'm not the one that has posted an incorrect interpretation of Shaka's comment regarding Oso/Clark multiple times.
I just hope he has an Epiphany moment with a capital E this year and we'll all be excited. Definitely not counting Clark out.
Practice pressure free throws.
Quote from: Stretchdeltsig on July 26, 2026, 03:23:20 PMPractice pressure free throws.
Best way to do this is "Iraqi style"
Quote from: Uncle Rico on July 26, 2026, 03:38:03 PMBest way to do this is "Iraqi style"
Cody Hatt's over there getting out the waterboard...
Quote from: The Sultan on July 26, 2026, 04:03:34 PMCody Hatt's over there getting out the waterboard...
Beats the idea that "running laps" on missed FTs is practicing pressure FTs
Quote from: The Sultan on July 26, 2026, 04:03:34 PMCody Hatt's over there getting out the waterboard...
Muggsy is a big fan of going "Full Medieval". Why not set up a rack?
Bonus-after a while on it, the players will be 2"-3" taller.
Just want to say that if Clark takes off this year, his bandwagon should be the Last Train to ClarksvilleTM.
If it's not, then I wasted a lot of time and money at the patent office.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on July 26, 2026, 04:32:57 PMMuggsy is a big fan of going "Full Medieval". Why not set up a rack?
Bonus-after a while on it, the players will be 2"-3" taller.
Ah yes, full Spanish Inquisition. We can get rid of the bird and have Torquemada as our mascot.
Quote from: barfolomew on July 26, 2026, 04:39:26 PMJust want to say that if Clark takes off this year, his bandwagon should be the Last Train to ClarksvilleTM.
If it's not, then I wasted a lot of time and money at the patent office.
Respect. Gotta strive to make worthy puns for Josh, as the Clark bar is pretty high.
Quote from: tower912 on July 26, 2026, 04:49:22 PMRespect. Gotta strive to make worthy puns for Josh, as the Clark bar is pretty high.
Instead of "Oshkosh, b' gosh", he could make some money selling "big boy" sized outfits of his own design-. "Oshkosh b' Josh."
I'm bored today.
It's not that I think Damarius's *ceiling* is the 6th-7th best player, just that in the afternoon I saw him it was more of the same: great defense, great length, decent shooting, little to no ball handling. Whereas Nolan is already more well-rounded and Phillips is actually showing YOY improvement (more muscle, athleticism, ball handling). Hence, 6th-7th best player.
The starting lineup as I see it is:
Nigel
Adrien
Minessale
Parham
Fru
But I could definitely see Damarius start at the 3 for defense and bring Minessale and Phillips off the bench for immediate offense. That's among the best "top 7's" in the Big East IMO. Then it's anyone's guess what Miletic, Walker, Egbuonu, Johnston, Clark do. You figure 2 of those round into shape as solid rotation pieces and that's really all you need.
I think we're a top 3 team in the Big East, a top 25 team throughout the season, and closer to a 4 seed than Dayton. Call me glass half full but when you have bankable Nigel, Royce, Fru to go with "one year better" Adrien, Michael, Minessale, Damarius...I'm very bullish on the season.
Agreed onepost. Stay healthy and should be fun.
Quote from: Scoop Snoop on July 26, 2026, 04:57:08 PMInstead of "Oshkosh, b' gosh", he could make some money selling "big boy" sized outfits of his own design-. "Oshkosh b' Josh."
I'm bored today.
He becomes super physical...
Joshmosh b'gosh
IMO, MU has only 3 high major guards, one has to come off the bench. Ergo, an actual SF starts at SF.
Quote from: We R Final Four on July 22, 2026, 10:51:57 AMShaka answering questions tonight. If interested, I will submit serious questions and see if he responds.
I've read the useful observations from folks who attended, but haven't seen any comments from Shaka, or if he actually had a press conference and/or responded to questions. Any updates from you?
but can we beat Dayton if we played them this year?
Quote from: onepost on July 26, 2026, 05:00:17 PMIt's not that I think Damarius's *ceiling* is the 6th-7th best player, just that in the afternoon I saw him it was more of the same: great defense, great length, decent shooting, little to no ball handling. Whereas Nolan is already more well-rounded and Phillips is actually showing YOY improvement (more muscle, athleticism, ball handling). Hence, 6th-7th best player.
The starting lineup as I see it is:
Nigel
Adrien
Minessale
Parham
Fru
But I could definitely see Damarius start at the 3 for defense and bring Minessale and Phillips off the bench for immediate offense. That's among the best "top 7's" in the Big East IMO. Then it's anyone's guess what Miletic, Walker, Egbuonu, Johnston, Clark do. You figure 2 of those round into shape as solid rotation pieces and that's really all you need.
I think we're a top 3 team in the Big East, a top 25 team throughout the season, and closer to a 4 seed than Dayton. Call me glass half full but when you have bankable Nigel, Royce, Fru to go with "one year better" Adrien, Michael, Minessale, Damarius...I'm very bullish on the season.
Agree w OP on starting 5. Thinking we need more offense and a 3rd ball handler on the wing. Thus, Mins over Owens. I also like then having Owens come off the bench as a sub. Gives us some size on perimeter.
Would Phillips be a suitable replacement for Parham at the 4 as PF? Thanks
Quote from: Captain Quette on July 27, 2026, 12:51:55 PMAgree w OP on starting 5. Thinking we need more offense and a 3rd ball handler on the wing. Thus, Mins over Owens. I also like then having Owens come off the bench as a sub. Gives us some size on perimeter.
Would Phillips be a suitable replacement for Parham at the 4 as PF? Thanks
Not sure he has enough bulk to guard a power-style 4. If it's more of a shooting wing, maybe--could help him from a speed of defense perspective compared to facing a guard, who I dont think he could keep in front of him.
Minessale might be one of the five best players on the roster, but I have him coming off the bench since he might be only one of three guards in the rotation. Will get starter's minutes.
My starting five:
PG: James.
2G: Stevens.
SF: Phillips.
PF: Parham
C: Fru
6th: Minessale
7th: Owens (PF and SF backup.)
8th: Clark
9th: Johnston
Curious why we would want our 3rd ball handler on the bench to start. If to have a sub, we could rotate the top 3 and then close the game or sub w top 3 ball handlers. Starting w top 3 ball handlers, likely captures our best starting 5 and allows us to get off to the best start in games.
More size and athleticism, for one. To establish a solid rotation for two.
IMO, it makes zero sense, if a team only has 3 high major guards, to start all 3, particularly when there are an abundance of talented wings. All 3 will play starters minutes. Balance the rotation, always have a fresh guard to bring off the bench.
Tower. That makes a lot of sense. My only thought would be to start our best 5, whoever that is. Three amigos come to mind under this premise as to starting 3 ball handlers.
Watching Owens play last year, he is very athletic w size and able to cover any type of wing player. He has attributes.
Quote from: tower912 on July 27, 2026, 02:18:24 PMMore size and athleticism, for one. To establish a solid rotation for two.
IMO, it makes zero sense, if a team only has 3 high major guards, to start all 3, particularly when there are an abundance of talented wings. All 3 will play starters minutes. Balance the rotation, always have a fresh guard to bring off the bench.
Yeah, I think this makes sense. I was initially thinking that Minessale was likely going to start, however, if he is essentially also the back-up PG, it could make more sense for him to be our 6th man while still playing starter minutes.
Will be interesting to see how it plays out.
Quote from: Captain Quette on July 27, 2026, 02:27:44 PMTower. That makes a lot of sense. My only thought would be to start our best 5, whoever that is. Three amigos come to mind under this premise as to starting 3 ball handlers.
Watching Owens play last year, he is very athletic w size and able to cover any type of wing player. He has attributes.
I understand that reasoning. I look at it as balancing the rotation in order to have our best 5 for that particular game with their minutes managed going into the last 4 minutes of a game. AND, not getting caught in a situation where all 3 are gassed or have picked up early fouls.
The best situation IMHO would be if either Owens or Phillips earns the starting 3 spot with several months of outstanding work leading up to the season opener. (Emphasis on earns.)
That would give us the most athletic starting lineup possible, and it would let Minessale come off the bench to back up either the 1, 2 or 3 as soon as the situation dictates (foul trouble, a starter needs rest, change of pace, etc).
But while that would be my preference, I do hope that Minessale gets the starting assignment if he has obviously earned it.
Quote from: MU82 on July 27, 2026, 02:35:37 PMThe best situation IMHO would be if either Owens or Phillips earns the starting 3 spot with several months of outstanding work leading up to the season opener. (Emphasis on earns.)
That would give us the most athletic starting lineup possible, and it would let Minessale come off the bench to back up either the 1, 2 or 3 as soon as the situation dictates (foul trouble, a starter needs rest, change of pace, etc).
But while that would be my preference, I do hope that Minessale gets the starting assignment if he has obviously earned it.
I like your and Tower's best case scenario. Shaka subs early, liberally and often. I don't suspect Minessale will have a problem with it either. As others have said he will get plenty of playing time as the third guard.
Having Phillips progress to where he gives us positive minutes would be very beneficial. Especially if we have 1 of Mins or Owens off the bench as well. 2 very good depth pieces, which is an improvement versus last year. I was at the DePaul game in Chicago last year, we were gassed and beaten down in 2nd H.
Now as to a true front court sub or our 3rd sub, not sure we know the answer. An important issue to track. Need 8 to play in my mind.
Quote from: onepost on July 26, 2026, 05:00:17 PMIt's not that I think Damarius's *ceiling* is the 6th-7th best player, just that in the afternoon I saw him it was more of the same: great defense, great length, decent shooting, little to no ball handling. Whereas Nolan is already more well-rounded and Phillips is actually showing YOY improvement (more muscle, athleticism, ball handling). Hence, 6th-7th best player.
The starting lineup as I see it is:
Nigel
Adrien
Minessale
Parham
Fru
But I could definitely see Damarius start at the 3 for defense and bring Minessale and Phillips off the bench for immediate offense. That's among the best "top 7's" in the Big East IMO. Then it's anyone's guess what Miletic, Walker, Egbuonu, Johnston, Clark do. You figure 2 of those round into shape as solid rotation pieces and that's really all you need.
I think we're a top 3 team in the Big East, a top 25 team throughout the season, and closer to a 4 seed than Dayton. Call me glass half full but when you have bankable Nigel, Royce, Fru to go with "one year better" Adrien, Michael, Minessale, Damarius...I'm very bullish on the season.
We were at the open practice. We spoke with a player and a parent that night after the practice. Agree with Onepost "post" no pun intended and feel it is accurate.
Quote from: mug644 on July 26, 2026, 09:33:41 PMI've read the useful observations from folks who attended, but haven't seen any comments from Shaka, or if he actually had a press conference and/or responded to questions. Any updates from you?
https://youtu.be/voLKPwJ_spI?is=NnZjLin__Osb7I_9
Quote from: onepost on July 26, 2026, 05:00:17 PMIt's not that I think Damarius's *ceiling* is the 6th-7th best player, just that in the afternoon I saw him it was more of the same: great defense, great length, decent shooting, little to no ball handling. Whereas Nolan is already more well-rounded and Phillips is actually showing YOY improvement (more muscle, athleticism, ball handling). Hence, 6th-7th best player.
The starting lineup as I see it is:
Nigel
Adrien
Minessale
Parham
Fru
But I could definitely see Damarius start at the 3 for defense and bring Minessale and Phillips off the bench for immediate offense. That's among the best "top 7's" in the Big East IMO. Then it's anyone's guess what Miletic, Walker, Egbuonu, Johnston, Clark do. You figure 2 of those round into shape as solid rotation pieces and that's really all you need.
I think we're a top 3 team in the Big East, a top 25 team throughout the season, and closer to a 4 seed than Dayton. Call me glass half full but when you have bankable Nigel, Royce, Fru to go with "one year better" Adrien, Michael, Minessale, Damarius...I'm very bullish on the season.
Don't say DO plays good defense, JFP might burn your house down.