Three Keys: Utah at Cincinnati
After another inspiring offensive performance by Wes Miller's group in Saturday's 84-66 win over BYU, things are finally trending in a direction that most felt was possible prior to the Bearcats losing four-straight to close out the month of January.
"I think that that's the expectation our guys have for themselves," Miller said following the win over BYU. "They have the expectation to play with that kind of energy and that kind of competitiveness and they know they're capable of it."
Outside questions of the effort and intensity of Miller's team have been answered and responded to in a positive way as UC looks to win their third straight game Tuesday night when they host the Utah Utes (13-10, 5-7 Big 12)
Cincinnati got revenge against BYU after a 28-point loss in Provo and will try to do the same against the Utes after being defeated 69-66 in Salt Lake City two weeks ago.
"I want to win the next game," Miller said Saturday night when asked about the potential of a three-game win streak. "My job as our leader is to focus on the things that I can control right now. All we can control is our preparation for Utah, our rest, and our preparation for Utah on Tuesday. But when you do that and neat little streaks and breakthroughs happen, that's great.
Three Keys to Victory:
Control the Paint:
UC was dominated on the glass in the first game against Utah, being outrebounded 41-23. Keanu Dawes controlled the glass for the Utes, pulling down 9 rebounds to go with 12 points. UC was also outscored 36-22 in the paint.
Ezra Ausar (11 pts) and Jake Wahlin (8 pts, 6 rbs) combined for 19 points, 9 rebounds and heavily contributed to the success that Utah had around the rim against the Bearcats.
Convert 2nd Chance Opportunities:
Cincinnati forced 19 turnovers in the first game between the two teams and turned the ball over just six times themselves. That is usually a recipe for a win. The Bearcats scored 21 points off those turnovers and had multiple chances down the stretch to pull off the win, but simply couldn't convert during key situations. After taking a 50-44 lead with 11:16 remaining in the second half, UC was outscored 18-4 over the next 6:37.
Madsen twins return to Cincinnati
Both Mason and Gabe Madsen committed to Cincinnati out of high school. Gabe opted out after two games during his freshman season under John Brannen, while Mason finished the season and played under Miller during his first year before transferring to Boston College for two seasons. The two were reunited for their final season in Utah.
Mason didn't play in the first game, but Gabe scored a game high 18 points, including the final nine points of the game for Utah to put the Bearcats away. Madsen has seen his three-point percentage dip to 31% this season, but the redshirt-senior is still making 37% of his attempts for his career. UC limited him to 1-of-6 from three in the first game. Keeping him off the free throw line and running him off the 3-point line will both be a primary focus.
Final Thoughts: