UC Bearcats Aim for Big 12 Victory at Arizona State: Scouting Report
The UC Bearcats are set to face the Arizona State Sun Devils in a critical Big 12 matchup on January 24, 2024. Both teams head into the game with an equal record of 10-9, each looking to regain positive momentum after recent setbacks in the conference.
Game Preview: UC Bearcats vs. Arizona State Sun Devils
This matchup takes place in Tempe, Arizona, which marks the Bearcats’ first visit to the city in over 52 years. The last encounter resulted in a victory for the Sun Devils, who handed the Bearcats their first loss of the season back in December 1973.
Recent Performance
- The Bearcats recently suffered a 77-51 defeat against No. 1 Arizona on January 21.
- Arizona State lost to West Virginia, falling 75-63 after leading at halftime.
Coaching Insights
Coach Wes Miller expressed dissatisfaction with the Bearcats’ recent performances and emphasized the need for improvement as they prepare for this away game. He stated, “You’re on the road, and you’ve got to regroup.”
Key Players
Several players will be crucial in determining the outcome of this game:
- Moustapha Thiam (Cincinnati Bearcats): Standing at 7’2″, Thiam had a career night with 24 points against UCF. He needs to overcome a recent foul-plagued game to lead the Bearcats effectively.
- Massamba Diop (Arizona State Sun Devils): The 7’1″ freshman averages 14.2 points and six rebounds per game, presenting a significant challenge for Thiam.
- Jizzle James (Cincinnati Bearcats): After recovering from illness, James will be under pressure to improve on his recent performance against Arizona, where he only scored four points.
Strategies for Success
To secure a win, the Bearcats must focus on the following key areas:
- Keep Arizona State Under 70 Points: The Sun Devils have struggled when scoring below 80 points, making it crucial for the Bearcats’ defense to step up.
- Win the Battle in the Paint: Thiam must outperform Diop to establish a strong presence in the game.
- Secure Early Leads: The Bearcats are 10-2 when leading at halftime, so a strong start will be essential.
Upcoming Game Details
The game is scheduled for January 24 at 10 p.m. Eastern Time at Desert Financial Arena, which has a capacity of 14,000. The match can be viewed on CBS Sports Network and heard on 700WLW.
Current Records
Here’s a quick look at the records and stats:
| Team | Overall Record | Big 12 Record | Points Per Game | Points Allowed per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cincinnati Bearcats | 10-9 | 2-4 | 72.8 | 66.1 |
| Arizona State Sun Devils | 10-9 | 1-5 | 79.5 | 80.4 |
This encounter sees both teams striving for crucial victories as they look to navigate the competitive landscape of the Big 12 Conference. The results from this game could have significant implications for both squads as they progress through the season.
