By: Paul Nienaber
The Bearcats showed up Monday evening in a decisive 55-point victory over Arkansas Pine Bluff. The deep Bearcats roster was led by what is turning out to be a versatile big three of Simas Lukošius, Jizzle James, and Dan Skillings Jr. Simas starts off the trio with a game high 20-point performance. The trio was firing on all cylinders with James and Skillings Jr both having a double double. James’ came in the form of 10 assists and 12 points, with Skillings Jr’s coming with 11 rebounds and 17 points. The team’s depth showed with all five starters scoring in double figures, as well as guard Connor Hickman contributing 13 points off the bench.
The Bearcats are looking ahead to their matchup against the Morehead State Eagles. The key in the season opener was their red hot three-point performance, shooting 50% from outside the arc. Fans can’t expect the Bearcats to maintain this absurd efficiency night in and night out but can be on the lookout for the improved shooting from deep. The Eagles have allowed 63 three-point attempts across their first two games against Louisville and Boyce. They kept great control of the ball in their match against Boyce on Wednesday, only giving up four second chance points, and five points off of turnovers.
Over 10,000 fans packed into Fifth Third Arena for an outmatched Arkansas Pine Bluff team Monday evening. The Bearcats will continue to build on this excitement Friday night against the Morehead State Eagles at 7pm.