Cincinnati Men’s Basketball recently concluded a stretch of facing six-consecutive ranked conference opponents. Marking a tough but promising start to Cincinnati’s first year in the Big 12 Conference.

The Cincinnati Bearcats went 2-4 in that stretch, going into this weekend 13-6 overall. Marking perhaps the toughest introduction to a conference in program history. Along with being Cincinnati’s longest stretch of games against ranked opponents in 30 years. The Bearcats began Big 12 play with a road win against Brigham Young. Beating now No.21 BYU 71-60 on January 6th. Cincinnati lost a nail-biting Big 12 home opener 74-73, to then No.25 Texas on January 9th. On January 13th, Cincinnati lost at now No.15 Baylor 62-59.

Cincinnati clinched their first Big 12 home win on January 16th. Coming back from a double-digit deficit to beat then No.19 TCU 81-77 in an overtime thriller. Marking arguably Cincinnati’s most significant win of the season so far. The win resulted in fans storming the court at Fifth Third Arena. Something that I don’t recall happening in that arena before.

The Bearcats went on to lose to then No.15 Oklahoma 69-65 last Saturday. Then concluded their six-game stretch against ranked opponents last Monday. Losing 74-69 to No.7 Kansas at famed Phog Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence, KS. While Cincinnati holds a losing record in conference play. The fact that Cincinnati was close to having a winning record in Big 12 play is impressive. While several close losses won’t help the Bearcats’ NCAA Tournament resume. Rising to the challenge of being in college basketball’s toughest conference could help.

If not for a few missed shots late in games. Cincinnati could be undefeated in conference play and likely nationally ranked. Cincinnati beat TCU despite a rough night at the charity stripe. Cincinnati had the chance to win the game in regulation through two free throws. Cincinnati missed both and gave TCU a chance to win; with an ultimately missed free throw opportunity. Fortunately for Cincinnati, TCU had an even worse night at the charity stripe. TCU made just two of their eight free-throws in regulation.

Cincinnati also had chances to force overtime against Baylor. Along with nearly beating Texas with last second shots. The Bearcats also contended into the last minute with Oklahoma. Then kept it close at times on blue blood Kansas’ home court. These missed opportunities showcase areas where Cincinnati can improve shooting-wise.

The Bearcats have a 45.0 field goal percentage going into this weekend. A 67.6 team free throw percentage and a 33.5 three-point percentage. By comparison, current Big 12 leaders Texas Tech are outpacing Cincinnati in all of those categories. Going into January 26th with a 46.0 field goal percentage. Texas Tech also has a 77.4 free-throw percentage and a 36.7 three-point percentage.

Despite the Bearcats’ conference record, Cincinnati’s fans have reasons to feel optimistic. Cincinnati is managing to contend amid the obstacles faced so far this season. Making progress in Wes Miller’s third season as Cincinnati’s head coach. As he and his teammates strive to bring the program back into national relevance. The Cincinnati Bearcats have endured through transfer and injury concerns. Along with facing a conference that is living up to its gritty reputation.

The Bearcats are also pulling off a modern feat in college basketball. By having some roster continuity in the transfer portal era. Junior Viktor Lakhin leads the team in points, rebounds and blocks. Sophomore Dan Skillings Jr. is second in points with 11.4 per game. Cincinnati’s collective veteran experience could help as the season continues.

Cincinnati will conclude January with a break from facing top 25 teams. The Bearcats will host Central Florida this Saturday at 7 PM (all times Eastern). UCF will go into Saturday 3-3 in conference play and 12-6 overall. Cincinnati will travel to face a rebuilding West Virginia program next Wednesday at 7 PM. Then Cincinnati plays three teams currently in the AP Top 25. On February 3rd, Cincinnati will face No.20 Texas Tech on the road. Cincinnati will host No.4 Houston on February 10th and play at No.23 Iowa State on February 13th.