The Associated Press

Xavier's fans are ready for Saturday's Crosstown Shootout with UC. In the closing minutes of Tuesday's 74-59 win over Purdue, the 10,250 fans chanted, "We want UC!" Xavier plays its crosstown rival on Cincinnati's court next Saturday, giving the Musketeers a chance to get even for their 20-point loss last season.

"That game is such a heated rivalry," said coach Thad Matta, in his second season at Xavier. "I had no idea last year. A game like tonight's, with the depth that Purdue has, will help us prepare for it.

"Cincinnati is Cincinnati. Someone told me that they were kicked out of the Top 25. My gosh, there's not 25 teams better than they are."