Xavier Musketeers Men’s Basketball: Building on Tradition and Rising Higher

The Xavier Musketeers men’s basketball team has long been one of college basketball’s proudest programs. Representing Xavier University in Cincinnati, the Musketeers have built a tradition of determination and excellence while competing in the powerhouse Big East Conference. With 30 NCAA Tournament appearances—including their first-ever No. 1 seed in 2018—plus two NIT championships and four Atlantic 10 Tournament titles, Xavier’s journey is nothing short of remarkable.

Now, under the leadership of Coach Richard Pitino, the program is set to soar even higher. Pitino brings more than a decade of head coaching experience, highlighted by an NIT Championship, multiple NCAA Tournament runs, and recognition as Coach of the Year. His proven ability to inspire players and elevate programs has Musketeer fans buzzing about the seasons to come.

A Legacy of Success

Xavier’s story is one of growth and resilience. From their Elite Eight appearances in 2004, 2008, and 2017 to capturing or sharing 17 regular-season conference championships, the Musketeers have firmly established themselves as one of the premier programs in the nation.

It’s not just about wins and banners—Xavier has also been recognized as one of the top 20 most valuable college basketball programs. Every game inside the Cintas Center is a celebration of tradition, filled with navy blue, white, and gray pride.

New Faces in the Paint

Kason Westphal – 7’0” Center, Salida, CO

Westphal joins the Musketeers after dominating at Fear of God Athletics and Salida High School. Averaging 15.1 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game, he helped lead his team to the Class 3A Great 8 and earned CHSAA/MaxPreps All-State Second Team honors. Coach Pitino calls him “a player with size, skill, and his best basketball still ahead of him.”

Anthony Robinson – 6’10” Forward/Center, Atlanta, GA

Robinson brings size and versatility after spending last season at Virginia, where he shot an eye-catching 72.1% from the field in 26 games. Pitino praises his upside and leadership qualities, noting he will be a “terrific representative of the program on campus and in the community.”

Key Forward Additions

Tre Carroll – 6’8” Forward, Port Charlotte, FL

A transfer from Florida Atlantic, Carroll averaged 12.2 points per game while earning AAC Co-Most Improved Player of the Year and Second Team All-Conference honors. His 24-point game against Michigan State proved he can shine in big moments. Pitino describes him as “tough, competitive, and a winner.”

Pape N’Diaye – 7’0” Forward, Abidjan, Ivory Coast

After moving to the U.S. in 2022, N’Diaye made an impact as a freshman at UNLV, averaging nearly three rebounds per game while shooting 61.7% from the field. His length and work ethic make him a perfect fit for Xavier’s frontcourt.

Jovan Milicevic – 6’10” Forward, Toronto, ON

Milicevic reunites with Pitino after playing at New Mexico and competing for Canada in the FIBA U17 Championship. His international experience adds depth and versatility to Xavier’s frontcourt rotation.

More Forwards to Watch

• Gabriel Pozzato (6’7”, Novara, Italy): Shined at Evansville as a freshman, averaging 14.9 points per game and earning Missouri Valley All-Freshman Team honors.

• Filip Borovicanin (6’9”, Belgrade, Serbia): A starter at New Mexico under Pitino, contributing 6 points and 4 rebounds per game during an NCAA Tournament run.

• Ian Sabourin (6’8”, Hamilton, OH): A fourth-year walk-on who embodies the toughness and spirit of Xavier basketball.

Guard Power

Roddie Anderson III – 6’3” Guard, Orange County, CA

Anderson arrives with plenty of experience after playing at Boise State and UC San Diego. At UCSD, he averaged 15.8 points in Big West play as a freshman and earned Honorable Mention All-Big West honors. With his scoring and playmaking ability, Anderson is ready to make an immediate impact.

Malik Messina-Moore – Guard

Details are still emerging on Messina-Moore, but Coach Pitino has highlighted his energy and competitive edge, which will add valuable depth to the backcourt.

More Backcourt Additions

• Isaiah Walker (6’5”, Cincinnati, OH): Belmont transfer who averaged 10.8 points and 5.8 rebounds while earning MVC Most Improved Team honors. Also named NACDA DI-AAA ADA Scholar Athlete of the Year.

• Luke Naser (6’2”, Gilroy, CA): Former UNLV walk-on who brings grit and energy after leading his Liberty High School team to the Nevada state tournament finals.

• Mier Panoam (6’2”, Anchorage, AK): Averaged 13 points at North Dakota and earned Summit League Honorable Mention. Known for his explosive scoring, including a 28-point career-high performance.

Conclusion: A Bright Future at Cintas Center

The Xavier Musketeers enter the 2025–26 season with a blend of tradition, talent, and leadership. From celebrated veterans to highly promising newcomers, the program is poised to build on its storied history while writing a bold new chapter.

Coach Pitino has assembled a roster filled with athleticism, versatility, and heart. With fan support filling the Cintas Center and a renewed sense of momentum, the Musketeers are ready to compete with the best in the Big East and beyond. The stage is set—the future of Xavier basketball has never looked brighter.