Following the departures of two senior post scorers in Jalen Reynolds and James Farr, Xavier was supposed to reorient its offense around its abundant perimeter threats. I envisioned a five-guard lineup, using Trevon Blueitt at center, that could, to put simply, get buckets.
Instead, Edmond Sumner, Malcom Bernard, and J.P. Macura’s 3-point percentages have significantly decreased this season, stunting Xavier’s offensive output. The trio shot a combined 3-for-23 from behind the arc in Xavier’s two losses to Baylor and Colorado. Also, whenever Xavier looks to J.P. Macura for a basket, he pulls up from 30 feet.
For Xavier to reach its potential on this side of the ball, one of these shooters, or senior Myles Davis, looking to be reinstated to the program following a suspension, must step forward.