Everything old is new again

It doesn't seem like that long ago that Naji Marshall got undercut and the official blew the call. It doesn't seem like that long ago that Xavier took a team that finished in the top 25 of the KenPom to OT on its home court before falling just short.

That's all history now; it lats in the same pile of ashes as Virginia's title. It has about the same bearing on the present as John Wooden's final game does.

Now all the focus is on this, the 98th iteration of a Xavier basketball team. They're blessed with an abundance of talent, both returning and incoming. The coaching staff has had an opportunity to find its legs, its voice, and its stride. The foundation has been lain for whatever this year will be.

Perhaps most importantly, a team adding seven new guys is already on campus learning the system and one another. Today marked the first of 10 extra practices the team will get before their preseason trip to Spain. Anyone who watched last year's team finally click in can tell you how vital this time will be.

While touring Spain, Team 98 will get its first taste of basketball action with games against some of the nation's top professional teams. We'll watch the games - you can, too, by signing up here for $12.50 - and provide you with the same coverage and analysis that you'd expect from us for any game the Muskies play.

Watching the way last year closed and looking at the talent suiting up this season, it's hard not to be excited. I can't wait to see these guys on the floor. November, January, and March can't get here soon enough.

Let's go.