David West gave Xavier athletic director Mike Bobinski feedback about what kind of coach the players wanted. West talked to XU's three high school signees to try to persuade them to honor their letters of intent, which they say they plan to do.

        Though West says he's still considering entering the NBA draft, the sophomore center's actions suggest a commitment to at least one more year. The deadline to submit for the draft is May 13.

        “I'm almost positive I'm not going anywhere,” West said. “I'm committed to this team. My main concern is a smooth transition for the team (to Matta).”

        New coach Thad Matta met with the Musketeers for 45 minutes Thursday to explain his philosophy and answer preliminary questions. Later in the day, he began individual meetings with players, which will continue today. West's meeting is 5 p.m. today.

        West had indicated he'd leave only if he disliked the new coach or if Skip Prosser's replacement dramatically changed XU's style of play. West said Thursday he had a “good first impression” of Matta.

        Many Musketeers were fearful Matta would change XU into a ball-control team, like Butler. But Matta told them their athleticism would allow him to play the way he prefers: aggressively.

        “I can guarantee you we will be the hardest-working team in the country,” he told them.

        And Matta told reporters he would emphasize West on offense.

        “You've gotta make sure the right people get touches on each possession,” Matta said.

        Other Xavier players also were satisfied with their first meeting with Matta.

        “It went well,” freshman forward Anthony Coleman said. “He seems like a good guy.”

        Several Musketeers said they didn't think any returning players would transfer. The three signees all said they'd stick with XU even before talking to Matta.

        West wasn't the only one who stepped in. Bobinski talked in the past week to the families of Keith Jackson, Will Caudle and Jaison Williams.

        Williams and Jackson said Thursday they plan to come to XU. Caudle's mother, Darlene, said the same is true for her son.

        “It's encouraging to know that the whole team's staying and that all of us (signees) are still going,” Williams said.

        Mike Hayes, a 6-foot-8 forward from Cowley County (Kan.) Community College, had verbally committed to XU but reopened his recruiting process after Prosser left. He said Thursday he still hadn't decided what to do. “I'm just waiting to hear from the new coach,” he said.

Xavier Stories

Matta's first-year goal: Sweet 16 West 'almost positive' he'll return Matta is always on job AD: Matta stood out from start DAUGHERTY: Coaches leave players in cold Matta may bring staff intact Youngest Division I head coaches

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