Cincinnati Bearcats Triumph Over UCF: Key Takeaways from Big 12 Win

Avery K. Bristow

Published: February 8, 2026 4:44 PM ET

The Cincinnati Bearcats achieved a significant victory against UCF, winning 92-72 on February 8, 2023. This win marked their highest score in the Big 12 season, just shy of their record 94 points from earlier in the season. The Bearcats improved to a record of 12-12 and secured a split in the seasonal series against UCF.

Cincinnati Bearcats Triumph Over UCF: Key Takeaways from Big 12 Win

The victory was a response to their previous performance against West Virginia. Just three days earlier, the Bearcats were criticized for squandering a double-digit lead. During the matchup with UCF, they maintained control throughout the game and never trailed.

Game Highlights

UC led 40-28 at halftime.
UCF managed to narrow the gap to six points in the second half but was unable to overtake the Bearcats.
UC boasted five players scoring in double figures.
Baba Miller recorded a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds.
Jizzle James and Moustapha Thiam contributed 15 points each, while Jalen Celestine added 14 points and Day Day Thomas scored 11.

Defensive Performance

The Bearcats excelled defensively, limiting UCF to 72 points despite the Knights’ average of 83 points per game. Cincinnati shot an impressive 59% from the field compared to UCF’s 41%.

Rebounding and Three-Point Shooting

Cincinnati outperformed UCF on the boards, achieving 37 rebounds to UCF’s 31. The Bearcats significantly improved their three-point shooting, finishing with 11 threes after struggling in their previous game.

Upcoming Schedule

The Bearcats are set to play Kansas State on February 11. This game will tip off at 9 PM ET on CBS Sports Network. Following that, they will return to Fifth Third Arena to face Utah on February 15.

In summary, the Cincinnati Bearcats showed resilience after a tough loss, demonstrating their ability to rally, control the game, and deliver an impressive performance against UCF. Fans and analysts alike will be keeping an eye on how they continue to progress in the Big 12.