The Xavier Musketeers played their first game in 1920. The program has had a lot of success in the last twenty years. Xavier have made the Elite Eight three times (2004, 2008 and 2017). Xavier’s last conference title was 2006 and they were conference regular season champions in 2018.
Xavier are in a tough battle for first place in the Big East this season. Xavier are 3-3 against ranked opponents this season. The Musketeers are on their way to the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2018. Xavier have a balanced offensive attack with five players averaging over 10 PPG.
The Historical Tapestry of Xavier Musketeers
Tracing the origins and evolution of the Xavier basketball program is like unfolding a rich historical tapestry. From its early days, the program has seen exponential growth, characterized by strategic coaching decisions, the recruitment of talented players, and an ever-growing, passionate fanbase. The program’s key moments include their first NCAA tournament appearance, which put them on the national sports map, and several significant victories that underscored their potential. Over the years, these milestones have shaped the program, infusing it with a sense of pride and ambition that continues to drive its success.
The Golden Era
The golden era of Xavier basketball, particularly under the leadership of Coach Chris Mack, stands out as a period of exceptional success and influence. Mack’s coaching philosophy, which emphasized a strong defensive strategy and cohesive teamwork, became the cornerstone of the team’s achievements. This era saw the rise of star players like Tu Holloway and Jordan Crawford, who became synonymous with the Musketeers’ fighting spirit. Their journey during this period, marked by remarkable NCAA tournament runs, including memorable Sweet 16 and Elite Eight appearances, etched the team’s name in the annals of college basketball history.
The Current Landscape
In the current sports landscape, the Xavier Musketeers continue to be a force to be reckoned with in college basketball. The team, under the guidance of a skilled and dedicated coaching staff, boasts a roster of players who bring a blend of experience, skill, and potential. The recent seasons have been a mixed bag of triumphs and challenges, with the team showing a remarkable capacity for adaptation and growth. This adaptability is key to their continued relevance and competitiveness in the ever-evolving world of collegiate basketball.
Xavier Musketeers Latest News
Xavier Musketeers [year] Schedule
Regular Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Date: Mon 06/11/2023 | Opponent: Robert Morris Colonials | Result: W 77-63 |
| Week 1 | Date: Fri 10/11/2023 | Opponent: Jacksonville Dolphins | Result: W 79-56 |
| Week 2 | Date: Mon 13/11/2023 | Opponent: Purdue Boilermakers | Result: L 71-83 |
| Week 2 | Date: Fri 17/11/2023 | Opponent: Washington Huskies | Result: L 71-74 |
| Week 2 | Date: Sun 19/11/2023 | Opponent: Saint Mary’s Gaels | Result: W 66-49 |
| Week 3 | Date: Fri 24/11/2023 | Opponent: Bryant Bulldogs | Result: W 100-75 |
| Week 4 | Date: Mon 27/11/2023 | Opponent: Oakland Golden Grizzlies | Result: L 76-78 |
| Week 4 | Date: Fri 01/12/2023 | Opponent: Houston Cougars | Result: L 60-66 |
| Week 5 | Date: Tue 05/12/2023 | Opponent: Delaware Blue Hens | Result: L 80-87 |
| Week 5 | Date: Sat 09/12/2023 | Opponent: Cincinnati Bearcats | Result: W 84-79 |
| Week 6 | Date: Sat 16/12/2023 | Opponent: Winthrop Eagles | Result: W 75-59 |
| Week 7 | Date: Wed 20/12/2023 | Opponent: St. John’s Red Storm | Result: L 66-81 |
| Week 7 | Date: Sat 23/12/2023 | Opponent: Seton Hall Pirates | Result: W 74-54 |
| Week 8 | Date: BYE | Opponent: BYE | Result: BYE |
| Week 9 | Date: Wed 03/01/2024 | Opponent: Villanova Wildcats | Result: L 65-66 |
| Week 10 | Date: Wed 10/01/2024 | Opponent: Connecticut Huskies | Result: L 75-80 |
| Week 10 | Date: Sat 13/01/2024 | Opponent: Providence Friars | Result: W 85-65 |
| Week 11 | Date: Tue 16/01/2024 | Opponent: Butler Bulldogs | Result: W 85-71 |
| Week 11 | Date: Fri 19/01/2024 | Opponent: Georgetown Hoyas | Result: W 92-91 |
| Week 12 | Date: Tue 23/01/2024 | Opponent: Creighton Bluejays | Result: L 78-85 |
| Week 12 | Date: Sun 28/01/2024 | Opponent: Connecticut Huskies | Result: L 56-99 |
| Week 13 | Date: Wed 31/01/2024 | Opponent: St. John’s Red Storm | Result: W 88-77 |
| Week 13 | Date: Sat 03/02/2024 | Opponent: DePaul Blue Demons | Result: W 93-68 |
| Week 14 | Date: Wed 07/02/2024 | Opponent: Villanova Wildcats | Result: W 56-53 |
| Week 14 | Date: Sat 10/02/2024 | Opponent: Creighton Bluejays | Result: L 71-78 |
| Week 15 | Date: Wed 14/02/2024 | Opponent: Seton Hall Pirates | Result: L 70-88 |
| Week 16 | Date: Wed 21/02/2024 | Opponent: Providence Friars | Result: L 75-79 |
| Week 16 | Date: Sun 25/02/2024 | Opponent: Marquette Golden Eagles | Result: L 64-88 |
| Week 17 | Date: Wed 28/02/2024 | Opponent: DePaul Blue Demons | Result: W 91-58 |
| Week 17 | Date: Sat 02/03/2024 | Opponent: Georgetown Hoyas | Result: W 98-93 |
| Week 18 | Date: Wed 06/03/2024 | Opponent: Butler Bulldogs | Result: L 66-72 |
| Week 18 | Date: Sat 09/03/2024 | Opponent: Marquette Golden Eagles | Result: L 80-86 |
Post Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Wed 13/03/2024 | Opponent: Butler Bulldogs | Result: W 76-72 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Thu 14/03/2024 | Opponent: Connecticut Huskies | Result: L 60-87 |
| NIT | Date: Tue 19/03/2024 | Opponent: Georgia Bulldogs | Result: L 76-78 |
Home of Xavier Musketeers: Cintas Center
The Cintas Center, more than just a basketball venue, is a symbol of the Musketeers’ spirit and tradition. Since its opening in 2000, it has been the battleground for many of the team’s most memorable games. Its vibrant atmosphere is a testament to the passionate fanbase that has consistently supported the team, providing a significant home-court advantage that has contributed to many of the program’s successes.