Pirates Search For Answers Against Xavier

Published: Tuesday, December 31, 2024

by Darren Worrell

The Seton Hall Pirates (5-8) head to Cincinnati for a pivotal game against Xavier (8-5), seeking their first win in Big East play this season. The Pirates hold a narrow 12-11 edge in the all-time series and aim to extend that advantage while overcoming early struggles. The game offers Seton Hall a chance to find its rhythm, build momentum and start 2025 on a positive note.

Seton Hall is coming off a tough 61-60 loss to Georgetown at the Prudential Center. While the defeat stings, it showcased the team’s heart and fight. Despite trailing by 11 points with just under four minutes remaining, the Pirates went on a 10-0 run to put themselves in position to win. In the end, they just couldn’t close it out.

A bright spot in the tough loss was Isaiah Coleman, who continued to shine for Seton Hall, setting a career-high 25 points and leading all scorers. He also grabbed nine rebounds.

Only a sophomore, Coleman has established himself as the Pirates’ most efficient scorer, capable of scoring from anywhere on the court. But it’s not just his offense—his on-ball defense has been crucial as well. He currently ranks seventh in the Big East in steals, averaging 1.7 per game, which will be key moving forward.

Looking at Xavier, the Musketeers will enter this matchup without one of their key players. Zach Freemantle, a major force for Xavier, is out indefinitely with a lower-body injury. Freemantle has been averaging 16.9 points and 7.7 rebounds per game, and his presence in the paint will certainly be missed. However, Xavier remains a dangerous team, with several players capable of stepping up in his absence.

Dayvion McKnight and Ryan Conwell form a dynamic backcourt duo that challenges Seton Hall. McKnight averages 11.2 points, shoots nearly 50% from the field, and adds solid rebounding and playmaking. His ability to attack the rim makes him a key threat.

Ryan Conwell averages 16.2 points, shooting 43.9% from 3-point range as one of Xavier's top perimeter threats. Despite Freemantle's absence, Xavier's offense remains balanced with Marcus Foster's scoring versatility and Dailyn Swain's 54.9% shooting efficiency.

Seton Hall must excel in five areas to beat Xavier. First, contain McKnight and Conwell, Xavier’s key scorers with Freemantle out. Second, dominate the boards in Freemantle’s absence. Third, play disciplined defense, limit transition opportunities, and force half-court sets. Fourth, minimize turnovers to prevent Xavier from capitalizing. Lastly, ensure balanced scoring beyond Coleman to keep Xavier’s defense off balance.

Tipoff is set for 2 p.m. at Cintas Center, with Patrick Corsello and CJ Weipz on the call. Pregame coverage with Joe Morales and Mike Bellifemini begins at 1:30 p.m. on WSOU.

Darren Worrell can be reached at darren.worrell@student.shu.edu. 

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