The Cincinnati Bearcats closed out non-conference play in convincing fashion, rolling past the Lipscomb Bisons 89–62 on Sunday night at Fifth Third Arena.
Cincinnati controlled the game from the opening tip, setting the tone with defensive pressure, efficient ball movement, and a consistent presence in the paint. The Bearcats built a sizable first-half lead and never allowed Lipscomb to seriously threaten, extending the margin throughout the second half in front of an energized home crowd.
Moustapha Thiam led Cincinnati with 18 points, finishing efficiently around the rim and providing a steady interior presence. Jizzle James added 16 points and five assists, giving the Bearcats an added spark in transition and creating scoring opportunities for teammates. Baba Miller delivered one of the most complete performances of the night, recording 11 points, a career-high 21 rebounds, and seven assists while anchoring the Bearcats on both ends of the floor. Veteran guard Kerr Kriisa chipped in 15 points, knocking down timely perimeter shots to keep Cincinnati’s offense in rhythm.
Lipscomb was paced by Ross Candelino, who scored 20 points and pulled down eight rebounds, but the Bisons struggled to match Cincinnati’s depth and physicality for a full 40 minutes.
The Bearcats’ ability to dominate the glass and convert second-chance opportunities proved decisive, as Cincinnati consistently won the rebounding battle and limited Lipscomb’s clean looks on offense. Strong defensive rotations and disciplined positioning helped keep the Bisons in check throughout the night.
Following the win, Cincinnati head coach Wes Miller pointed to his team’s balance and attention to detail as key factors in the performance.
“When we defend, rebound, and share the basketball the way we did tonight, we give ourselves a chance to be really good,” Miller said. “Our guys stayed locked in, played unselfishly, and did the little things that lead to winning.”
With the victory, Cincinnati wraps up its non-conference schedule on a positive note and carries momentum into upcoming conference play. The Bearcats will look to build on Sunday’s performance as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
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