Wes Miller Previews Big 12 opener at BYU
Non-conference play is officially behind us.
The Bearcats defeated Evansville, 76-58, on Friday night to close the non-conference portion of their schedule and will head in to Big 12 play with an 11-2 record.
(Photo: Taylor Keeton)
Wes Miller met with the media today to preview Saturday's 10 pm tip off in Provo against the BYU Cougars (12-1).
Miller described the type of challenge BYU presents with their elite shooting ability:
BYU is currently 9-0 in home games this season, with a 34.7 average margin of victory. Wes Miller described the difficulty of playing in a tough environment like the Marriott Center:
One of the key storylines early in the season was the availability of Aziz Bandaogo. The 7'0 big man was finally ruled eligible but sustained a back injury against Dayton and has not played since.
The Bearcats got more bad news on the injury front when CJ Fredrick re-aggravated a hamstring injury against Stetson. Miller discussed their availability moving forward:
Wes Miller on if there is anything different in terms of preparation or excitement with Big 12 play finally being here:
Wes Miller on the depth and experience of BYU's roster:
Cincinnati opens Big 12 play on the road at #12 BYU, vs #20 Texas, at #18 Baylor, vs TCU, vs #11 Oklahoma, and on the road again at #2 Kansas. Wes Miller was asked about the grind of the Big 12 schedule to open league play.
The Bearcats' two losses this season have come in the most difficult environments that they have played in. Miller discussed how he uses those experiences to continue to develop his team.
The first half of the game against Evansville was arguably the worst half of basketball that UC has played to date. They trailed 40-32 and weren't playing with the type of energy and effort needed defensively. Miller explained how it is important for this team to fully embrace the little things that it takes to win:
Wes Miller was asked about the time zone change and elevation of BYU and if that changes preparation:
The last topic of the day was simply what one thing the Bearcats need to do moving forward to have success in the Big 12: