CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bearcats secured a pivotal victory against the UCF Knights on March 10, 2026, with a commanding score of 92-72. This win marked the Bearcats’ first Big 12 rivalry success of the season, showcasing their offensive prowess as they exceeded the 80-point threshold for the first time in this conference play.
Cincinnati’s performance was marked by a well-rounded team effort, highlighted by the return of Moustapha Thiam, who contributed significantly with 15 points and seven rebounds. His return provided a much-needed boost on both ends of the court, allowing the Bearcats to improve their season record to 12-12 and finish their Big 12 rivalry series with a 1-5 record.
The Bearcats displayed strong defensive capabilities, limiting UCF to a shooting percentage of just 40.9%. They also won the rebounding battle 37-31 and kept turnovers to a manageable 11. Historically, Cincinnati has dominated this matchup, now leading the all-time series against UCF 19-7, which includes a remarkable 9-1 record on their home turf in Clifton.
Cincinnati’s scoring depth was evident as seven players reached at least seven points during the game. UCF entered this match boasting a record of 17-5, but struggled against the Bearcats’ defensive strategies. The Knights, who typically average 76.3 points per game in Big 12 competition, found it challenging to establish their usual rhythm. Riley Kugel, UCF’s leading scorer, managed only 10 points, while Thomas Fulks was held scoreless.
Thiam’s impact on the game was palpable. His plus-26 plus/minus score underscored his influence, allowing the Bearcats to play at a higher caliber. He effectively supported Tyler McKinley, who had been the team’s sole forward option in a recent loss, by easing the workload and enabling a more dynamic offensive strategy. The duo of Thiam and Baba Miller was particularly effective, combining for 32 points, 17 rebounds, and six assists.
Thiam’s return from injury has been a crucial factor for Cincinnati. He displayed impressive finishing skills around the basket and was instrumental in generating turnovers, contributing multiple steals and blocks. Despite dealing with an injury just a week prior, he played 31 minutes, demonstrating his resilience and importance to the Bearcats’ lineup.
Looking ahead, the Bearcats aim to maintain their momentum in their next outing against Kansas State on March 13, 2026, scheduled for 21:00 ET, broadcast on CBS Sports Network. As they gear up for this challenge, Cincinnati fans are encouraged to stay updated through Bearcats Talk for the latest news and insights.