The Big 12 Conference doesn't leave much room for celebration as No. 16 Texas Tech and a surging Cincinnati squad face off again on Tuesday in Lubbock, Texas.
Texas Tech took a significant step forward without one of their standout players, J.T. Toppin, who is out for the season due to a knee injury sustained on Feb.
- Over the weekend, they decisively defeated Kansas State 100-72.
Cincinnati, meanwhile, is riding high after securing a major victory against Kansas, marking their fourth consecutive win. This streak is the longest current run in the conference, highlighted by an 84-68 triumph over the then-No. 8 Jayhawks.
The Bearcats had a rocky start, going 0-3 in league play and losing four of five in late January, which sparked speculation about coach Wes Miller's job security. However, they've turned it around, averaging 86.5 points during their winning streak, a remarkable feat for a team that ranks near the bottom of the league with an average of 72.7 points per game.
"This win is monumental for our program," Miller said. "Our guys have never stopped working hard to figure things out."
Texas Tech is also navigating changes as they adapt to life without Toppin, the 2024-25 Big 12 Player of the Year and a consensus preseason All-American. Their win against Kansas State was a promising start, featuring a dominant 40-28 rebounding edge, with six players grabbing four or more boards. They capitalized on their opportunities in the paint, hitting 19 of 23 free throws.
Sticking to their strengths, Texas Tech showcased their shooting prowess with Donovan Atwell leading the charge. He nailed 6 of 9 from beyond the arc, contributing 26 points. Christian Anderson added 21 points and nine assists, while Luke Bamgboye, stepping in for Toppin, provided 12 points, six defensive rebounds, and three blocks.
"Our team really came together," Texas Tech coach Grant McCasland said. "It shows how much they care for each other and their competitive spirit."
Facing Cincinnati will be a different challenge for Texas Tech. The Bearcats' defense is formidable, ranking fourth in the Big 12 by allowing just 67.0 points per game and excelling in field-goal and 3-point defense.
Baba Miller leads Cincinnati with averages of 13.9 points and 10.2 rebounds, while Moustapha Thiam has been a key contributor, averaging 11.8 points and 6.2 boards. Thiam also delivered a career-best 28 points in their recent win.
After starting 0-5 in Big 12 road games, the Bearcats have now won their last two, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup against Texas Tech.