Bearcats Thoughts: UC Downs Memphis

The Bearcats scored 51 points in the first half as they increased their home winning streak 25 on Thursday night in an 87-74 win over Memphis.


The first half was very fun. 


UC shot 58 percent from the field in the first half as they were firing on all cylinders.  I personally thought it was their best half of basketball of the year except the 2nd half of the Xavier game.  The Bearcats had just 3 turnovers in the first half and shot 50 percent from three and that's why they led 51-32 at the break. 


Cincinnati was extremely balanced in the 2nd half with all 5 starters scoring at least 6 points including an and-1 dunk in which Gary Clark grabbed a lob and threw it down with authority.  The defense was decent, but it could have been better and because of this Mick was probably pissed at halftime.


Unfortunately, Memphis shot lights out in the 2nd half. Literally the Tigers shot 60 percent form the field, but because the Bearcats built a 24 point lead the closest the Tigers got was within 7 points.  Dedric Lawson and Jeremiah Martin basically got whatever they wanted.  Martin and Lawson combined for 44 points.


Despite this run, this game was never in jeopardy. Kyle Washington led UC with 16 points, but the it was a total team effort. Evans had 15, Clark 13, and Caupain 12. Like I said....team effort.


These two teams are two of the best teams in the country in terms of taking care of the ball, but the Bearcats came out on top +6 in the turnover margin forcing the Tigers into 12 turnovers.  Memphis is also a pretty tough team to rebound against, but UC got 12 offensive rebounds and were +7 on the glass overall.


Cincinnati has struggled with free-throws this year, but they were a smooth 23-28 tonight and that's a big part why this game was never really in doubt. 


Tubby Smith is the 9th coach to win a national championship that Mick Cronin has beaten. Take that Tubby. 


Overall, it was a good game, but I'm pissed because I got the Cats at -13.5 so naturally they win by 13, but I can't complain.  UCF awaits UC next so until next time.


Gary Clark is a problem BTW...