Xavier forward Elijah Tucker will redshirt

First, the news, as reported by the Cincinnati Enquirer's Adam Baum: Elijah Tucker will take a redshirt this year. Tucker had come down with an undisclosed illness over the summer that had sapped him of some of his fitness, and that combined with Xavier's frontcourt depth has led to his taking a redshirt for the upcoming season.

Tucker is an undeniably talented player, but it's hard to see where he could have slotted in Xavier's rotation this season. That's less an indictment on his ability and more an illustration if just how deep the Muskies are up front, especially if they can stay healthy. The Muskies' best lineup probably includes Jack Nunge and Zach Freemantle at the bigs, though Xavier certainly has enough wings and guards to play a single post (or none at all). Ben Stanley offers plenty of experience and scoring nous. Jerome Hunter comes over from Indiana with 55 games of high-major basketball under his belt. Dieonte Miles just won the golden jersey in practice for the week. Classmate Cesare Edwards will also challenge for minutes up front.

It's a crowded position group, is what I'm saying. Tucker was always kind of the obvious candidate for a redshirt, and a year working on his game and competing in practice - to say nothing of getting back to 100% physically - is apparently what the coaching staff believes is best for his development.