Xavier Musketeers Basketball: Key Strategies for Season Opener Against Marist
The Xavier Musketeers men’s basketball team is set to embark on a new journey under head coach Richard Pitino. With a completely redesigned roster, the team will kick off its season against Marist on November 3 at the Cintas Center. Xavier aims to maintain its impressive streak of 35 consecutive wins in regular-season openers.
Xavier’s New Era Begins
Xavier’s head coach Richard Pitino, who took over in April after Sean Miller’s departure to Texas, is keen on building a winning culture. The Musketeers hope to leverage their home court advantage at Cintas Center, where they finished their last season with a thrilling win against Providence.
Game Details
- Tip-off: November 3, 7:15 PM
- Location: Cintas Center, capacity 10,224
- Broadcast: ESPN+/55KRC
About Marist Red Foxes
Marist is entering this matchup with a significant improvement over recent seasons. Under head coach John Dunne, the Red Foxes had a successful 2024-25 season, finishing with a record of 20-10. They returned six leading scorers, including notable players Elijah Lewis and Jadin Collins-Roberts.
Red Foxes Insights
- Record: 20-10 (13-7 MAAC)
- Defense: 64.5 points per game allowed last season
- Offensive Strategy: 66 points per game scored last season
Xavier’s Scouting Report
The Musketeers, who had a record of 22-12 last season, are looking to improve their offensive output from 78.1 points per game. Coach Pitino’s first season aims for a competitive culture in the Big East, despite being predicted to finish eighth.
Player Key Performers
- Tre Carroll: A key player showing promise after a standout performance in the exhibition game with 21 points and 13 rebounds.
- Anthony Robinson: Known for his powerful dunks, needs to avoid foul trouble to provide rim protection for Xavier.
Strategies for Victory
For Xavier to secure a win against Marist, minimizing turnovers is crucial. The Musketeers need to remain disciplined and improve on their previous exhibition performance. Additionally, better shooting from beyond the arc is needed, as they struggled in their last game, making only 2 of 15 three-point attempts.
Anticipated Lineup
| Position | Player | Height | Last Season Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guard | Roddie Anderson III | 6’3″ | DNP |
| Guard | Malik Messina-Moore | 6’5″ | 12.6 ppg at Montana |
| Forward | Filip Borovicanin | 6’9″ | 5.9 ppg at New Mexico |
| Forward | Tre Carroll | 6’8″ | 12.2 ppg at Florida Atlantic |
| Forward/Center | Anthony Robinson | 6’10” | 3.6 ppg at Virginia |
The Musketeers are looking to start the season on a high note against Marist, bringing their unique strengths to the forefront. Fans can expect an exciting opening game as both teams showcase their strategies and talents.
