As the NCAA Tournament comes to a close, GMS likes to review some of the power conference or power program teams that made it to the Big Dance and ask whether or not they’ve got a shot to return to the show next season. We continue on with teams eliminated in the second round.
Recruit and Reload: Xavier Musketeers
Key Losses: Jalen Reynolds, James Farr, Myles Davis
Key Returners: Trevon Bluiett (expected), Edmond Sumner (expected)
Key Newcomers: Quentin Goodin
Breakdown: Losing both Reynolds and Farr has to hurt for head coach Chris Mack, as next year’s team instantly loses valuable experience, athleticism, and toughness. However, the true key will be getting back both Bluiett and Sumner. If both leave, you’re looking at a team that is a non-factor in the Big East and goes into rebuild mode. If they return, you’re talking about a preseason top ten team.
The improvement and emergence of Sumner gives Xavier the kind of dynamic guard they’ve been missing, while the depth that someone like Goodin can provide should help ease the blow of losing Reynolds and Farr. The x-factor, as always, is Bluiett. When he’s on and consistent, the Musketeers are lethal. When he’s passive or off his spot, Xavier is extremely vulnerable.
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