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Xavier Basketball: Can “core four” lead Musketeers to bounce-back season?

By Jacob Zinkula

(Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
(Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 09: Naji Marshall #13 of the Xavier Musketeers reacts in the first half against the Providence Friars during semifinals of the Big East Basketball Tournament at Madison Square Garden on March 9, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 09: Naji Marshall #13 of the Xavier Musketeers reacts in the first half against the Providence Friars during semifinals of the Big East Basketball Tournament at Madison Square Garden on March 9, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Naji Marshall

Marshall, in particular, took things to another level at the end of the season. He averaged 17.6 points in the final ten games versus 14.7 overall, including a season-high 31-point outing at St John’s. He also shot 34.7% from 3-point range in this stretch versus 27.7% overall, providing a reason for optimism regarding his jump-shot.

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xavier2 /

At 6-7, Marshall provides unique versatility for a player of his size at the college level. His height enables him to be a strong rebounder, but he’s also capable playmaker that can knock down a long-range shot. Only seven players last season averaged at least 14.7 points, 7.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 1.5 made 3-pointers per game last season.

RJ Barrett – Duke

Justin James – Wyoming

John Konchar – Purdue Fort-Wayne

Tres Tinkle – Oregon State

Ky Bowman – Boston College

Jon Axel Gudmundsson – Davidson

Romone Saudners – Wagner

Justin Pierce – William & Mary

Naji Marshall – Xavier

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Animated GIF /

For Xavier to reach expectations, Marshall will have to take things to even another level. He needs to improve his jumper and cut down on turnovers (almost averaged as many turnovers as assists last season). The end of last season provided a glimpse of the player he can be.