Chatterbox Bearcats

Jizzle James announced on Instagram that he will be entering the NBA Draft. One issue, the deadline to declare is well past due. What's going on? Plus, diamond Cats Kerrington Cross named player of the year in the Big 12. Subscribe to our show on YouTube.

The Cincinnati Bearcats basketball team will feature one of the bigger teams in America, adding in 6'11 forward Baba Miller to the fold. Miller was All-AAC a season ago at Florida Atlantic and provides a smoothness to his offensive game that not many 6'11 players have. Subscribe to our show on YouTube and Instagram.

The Cincinnati Bearcats and Louisville Cardinals Men's Basketball Teams are finalizing a deal to meet in the next two seasons, with the Cats set to host the Cards at Heritage Bank in 2025 and the Cardinals to return the favor at Freedom Hall in 2026.   ERROR* Dillon Mitchell has committed to St John's, not Texas.   Chuck Walter reacts to the return of a great rivalry and discusses why Shon Abaev is key to this year's team.  Subscribe to our show on YouTube!

How the Cincinnati Bearcats were able to heist UCF's best recruit in history AND their regarded assistant coach. Plus, the fellas get into football talk with the season Opener against Nebraska closing in on 4 months.  Subscribe to our channel on YouTube. We go LIVE for Football and Basketball postgame shows as soon as the horn sounds.

Wes Miller has added two massive additions to the Cincinnati Bearcats basketball team. Moustapha Thiam is a 7-foot-2 NBA prospect who had a stellar Freshman season for Central Florida. Jalen Celestine spent last season at Baylor and is a proven shooter at the Big 12 Level. Chuck Walter and Eric Lilly break down what these commits mean. Subscribe to our show on YouTube!

Jalen Haynes has left the Atlantic 10 for the Big 12. The big 6'8 260 pound center will join Wes Miller and the Cincinnati Bearcats, helping to replace the departed Arrinten Page and Aziz Bandaogo. Subscribe to Chatterbox Bearcats on YouTube!

Dillon Mitchell, Arrinten Page, and Tyler Betsey became the latest Cincinnati Bearcats to enter the NCAA transfer portal, joining Dan Skillings, Josh Reed, Rayvon Griffith, and JJ Rembert. Chuck, Houdini, Niehaus, and Eric Lilly go with the four man weave to break down the big news. Be sure to subscribe to CHATTERBOX SPORTS on YouTube for all the latest Cincinnati Bearcats and Cincinnati sports content. 

The Chatterbox Bearcats crew discusses the portal exits of Dan Skillings, Rayvon Griffith and Josh Reed. Who will be the trio's replacements? Where will they end up? All of that discussed ad more.   Be sure to subscribe to CHATTERBOX SPORTS on YouTube for all the latest Cincinnati Bearcats and Cincinnati sports content.    OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Off The Bench: https://otbthombrennaman.podbean.com/  Chatterbox Bengals: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chatterbox-bengals-a-cincinnati-bengals-nfl-podcast/id1652732141  Dialed In with Thom Brennaman: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VLxmcTTWV0ubHu_cSFdEDU  Chatterbox Man on the Street: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ye-HjJdmmQ&list=PLjPJjEFaBD7V0GOh595LyjumA0bZaqwh9&pp=iAQB 

The Cincinnati Bearcats Men's Basketball Team has added veteran guard Kerr Kriisa from Kentucky in the transfer portal, and later added Sencire Harris from West Virginia. Both players have plenty of NCAA Tournament experience, with Kriisa starting his career at Arizona. Harris began his career at Illinois, while last year being an All-Big 12 Defender for West Virginia. Chuck, Houdini and Niehaus break down the commits. Subscribe on IG and YouTube!

Chuck, Lilly, and Niehaus discuss the future of Cincinnati Bearcats basketball.

This is not how we had the first April win in our lives in mind. Cats beat the Demons and advance in The Crown.

The transfer portal has opened and the Cincinnati Bearcats have been radio silent. So far not a single Bearcat has entered the portal, nor has anyone committed. The Chatterbox Bearcats fellas discuss the names attached to UC, the full roster they will have in The Crown Tournament, plus look ahead to the McDonald's All-American game and their crowned jewel Shon Abaev. Subscribe to Chatterbox Bearcats on YouTube and Instragram.

The Chatterbox Bearcats crew discusses the first day of the transfer portal for college basketball, as rumors are swirling with Jizzle James and Dan Skillings. The fellas also discuss the latest college basketball coaching rumors, the Bearcats competing the prestigious Crown Tournament and answer viewer questions.

Cincinnati Bearcats basketball faced a challenging season, culminating in their participation in the "Crown" tournament. With a $300,000 prize at stake, can the Bearcats turn their fortunes around against DePaul? Meanwhile, the football team shows promise with standout performances in spring practice, hinting at a brighter future under new leadership. Explore the impact of Corey Evans' hiring as General Manager for UC basketball and his potential to reshape recruiting strategies.  Subscribe to our channel on YouTube and Instagram.

Chuck and Houdini react to the Cincinnati Bearcats loss to Iowa State in Big 12 Tournament, their final live reaction show of the season. Subscribe to the show on YouTube.

The Cincinnati Bearcats have earned themselves another opportunity with the Iowa State Cyclones in the Big 12 Tournament, this coming after UC demolished Oklahoma State from start to finish. Chuck Walter and Nick Niehaus breaks down a really good performance, but why it makes the outlook even more frustrating.   Subscribe to the show on YouTube.

The Cincinnati Bearcats basketball program will finish only above Colorado and Arizona State in the Big 12 after losing to Oklahoma State to finish the season.  Wes Miller was returning regardless. Chuck and Houdini react to what has been a brutal Cats season.

Chuck Walter and Hudson Klauke are angry. Listen to them vent, following a Senior Day loss to Kansas State. The Cincinnati Bearcats' NCAA Tournament dreams came crashing down in a gut-wrenching 54-49 loss to Kansas State on Senior Night. This defeat not only ended our hopes of making the Big Dance but also exposed deeper issues within the program. As a lifelong Bearcats fan, I'm beyond disappointed. We entered this must-win game as 8.5-point favorites at home, yet we couldn't even muster 50 points. The atmosphere in Fifth Third Arena felt more like a funeral than a crucial late-season matchup. A Season of Frustration This loss encapsulates our entire season - inconsistent play, lack of offensive identity, and an inability to close out games. We've gone from being ranked 15th in the country after beating Xavier to now facing the harsh reality of missing the NCAA Tournament yet again. The most frustrating part is that this team has talent. Players like Jizzle James and Dayday Thomas have shown flashes of brilliance, but we've struggled to put it all together consistently. Our offense often devolves into contested jumpers from undersized guards - a recipe that simply doesn't work at the Big 12 level. Questions Surrounding Wes Miller While I believe Wes Miller is a good person and players seem to like him, his tenure so far has been underwhelming. In four years, he hasn't left the program in a better place than he found it. The lack of progress is concerning, especially given the resources and support he's received. Miller's roster construction and in-game adjustments have come under scrutiny. The regression of players like Dan Skillings and Simas Lukosius is particularly troubling. As much as I want to believe in Wes, it's becoming increasingly difficult to justify his long leash. The transfer portal will be crucial this offseason. Miller needs to overhaul this roster and find a way to compete in the Big 12. If he can't turn things around next season, his seat will undoubtedly get hot. For Bearcats fans, this is a bitter pill to swallow. We've gone from being a perennial NCAA Tournament team to struggling for relevance. The passion is still there, but the product on the court needs to improve dramatically. Check out our show on YouTube!

Eric Lilly and Nick Niehaus bring you the midweek show, ahead of Senior Night against Kansas State at Fifth Third Arena. Subscribe to the show on YouTube.

Cincinnati had a prime chance to firmly stamp an NCAA ticket with a road win over Houston, but really never stood a chance against a LEGIT National Title contender and Big 12 Champion. Chuck and Houdini react to the game. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Nick Niehaus and Eric Lilly focus exclusively on the NCAA Tournament bubble and on the Houston Cougars, who the Bearcats play Saturday.

The Cincinnati Bearcats pulled off a nail-biting 69-67 victory over the Baylor Bears, breathing new life into their NCAA Tournament aspirations. This win, arguably their second-biggest of the season, improves their conference record to 7-10 and overall record to 17-11. Jizzle James led the charge with 18 points, setting the tone early with a step-back three-pointer and tenacious on-ball defense. Despite his high usage rate and occasional over-dribbling, James proved to be the offensive catalyst the Bearcats needed. Dillon Mitchell emerged as the unsung hero, contributing 13 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists. His assertiveness in the paint and timely blocks in the closing moments were crucial to securing the win. Josh Reed also shone brightly, particularly in the first half, showcasing his playmaking abilities and finishing with 11 points. The Bearcats' defense, led by Day Day's relentless effort both on and off the ball, disrupted Baylor's rhythm throughout the game. Cincinnati's ability to limit turnovers to just seven while shooting an impressive 46% from the field and 43% from beyond the arc proved to be the difference-maker. Looking Ahead to Houston With this vital win under their belts, the Bearcats now face their toughest test yet – a road game against the formidable Houston Cougars. Houston, boasting a 16-1 conference record and the nation's top-ranked defense, will be a significant challenge for Cincinnati. The Cougars, led by LJ Cryer's 14.5 points per game have risen to national championship contender status. However, their rebounding prowess isn't as dominant as in previous years, ranking 109th nationally compared to Cincinnati's 213th. While the odds may be stacked against them, the Bearcats have shown resilience and the ability to compete with top-tier teams, as evidenced by their close game against Iowa State earlier in the season. A strong showing or even an upset against Houston could significantly bolster Cincinnati's tournament resume. For more insights and a deeper dive into the Bearcats' NCAA Tournament chances, tune into the Chatterbox Bearcats podcast for this and much more. Other Topics in Today's Chatterbox Bearcats Podcast: • Mick Cronin's 500th career win and his impact on Cincinnati basketball • The evolution of Cincinnati's fan support since Cronin's tenure • Analysis of Baylor's recent struggles and their tournament outlook

Can the Cincinnati Bearcats basketball team secure their spot in the NCAA tournament? With recent standout performances, including Josh Reed's rise as a key player, the Bearcats are making waves. This episode dives into their upcoming clash with the Baylor Bears, a pivotal game that could define their season. Hosts Nick Niehaus and Eric Lilly explore the team's evolving strategy, the impact of players like VJ Edgecomb and Norchad O'Mear, and the complexities of the NCAA tournament bubble. They also touch on the coaching staff's future and the 2025 football season outlook, highlighting Brendan Sorsby and Joe Royer. Tune in for an engaging analysis of the Bearcats' journey and discover what it takes to make a deep run in March Madness. Subscribe to our YouTube page!

Houdini hosts this postgame edition of Chatterbox Bearcats, following a home win over TCU. Chuck calls in from Hoover Dam in Nevada and Eric Lilly joins the show following his return from the Shoe. Subscribe to our show on YouTube!

The Cincinnati Bearcats' NCAA Tournament dreams likely came to an end with a gut-wrenching 62-59 loss to West Virginia. Despite a valiant comeback attempt in the final seconds, the Bearcats couldn't overcome their offensive struggles and rebounding woes. This defeat feels like the final nail in the coffin for a season that began with such high expectations. We entered the year believing this could be a top-15 team, but the reality has been far different. At 5-10 in Big 12 play, even the most optimistic fans must admit our tournament hopes are on life support. The game itself was a microcosm of our entire season. We showed flashes of brilliance, building a six-point lead in the second half. But just as quickly, it all unraveled. Jizzle James, our offensive catalyst, picked up his fourth foul on an ill-advised reach-in, sending him to the bench. In the blink of an eye, West Virginia went on a 7-0 run to retake the lead. Our offense looked lost for long stretches, often devolving into James or Day Thomas dribbling aimlessly before hoisting contested jumpers. The lack of ball movement and off-ball action was painful to watch. Even more frustrating was our inability to secure defensive rebounds, giving West Virginia far too many second-chance opportunities. Looking Ahead to an Uncertain Future As we look ahead to next season, there are more questions than answers. Will Jizzle James return? Can we land impact transfers to complement our existing talent? And perhaps most importantly, is Wes Miller the right coach to lead this program back to national relevance? Miller's seat isn't hot yet, but the temperature is rising. In four years at the helm, he's yet to guide Cincinnati to the NCAA Tournament. For a program with our storied history, that's simply not good enough. Next season feels like a make-or-break year for Miller's tenure. The transfer portal will be crucial this offseason. We desperately need to add shooting and playmaking to complement James (if he returns) and our existing frontcourt pieces. Finding a stretch five who can space the floor should be a top priority. For more insights and a deeper dive into the state of Bearcats basketball, tune into the Chatterbox Bearcats podcast for this and much more. Other Topics in Today's Chatterbox Bearcats Podcast: • Breaking down Wes Miller's struggles against Quad 1 opponents • The impact of NIL on roster construction and player retention • Evaluating the development of young players  SUBSCRIBE ON YOUTUBE  

Can the Cincinnati Bearcats bounce back after their tough loss to the Iowa State Cyclones? With a crucial matchup against the West Virginia Mountaineers on the horizon, the Bearcats' tournament hopes hang in the balance. This episode breaks down the Bearcats' recent struggles with defensive rebounding and controversial officiating, spotlighting Jizzle James' standout performance. The hosts, Nick Niehaus and Eric Lily, explore the must-win game against West Virginia, analyzing the Mountaineers' strengths and weaknesses. They also tackle listener questions about Dan Skillings' recent form and the potential return of former UC coaches like Bob Huggins. The episode wraps up with a celebration of the UC baseball team's impressive series win against Duke, highlighting Carrington Cross's contributions. Tune in for an engaging discussion on the Bearcats' path to success and the challenges ahead. Subscribe to our YouTube page!

The Cincinnati Bearcats suffered a tough loss to Iowa State, falling 81-70 in a game marred by questionable officiating. Despite Jizzle James' continued dominance, the Bearcats struggled to overcome a significant foul discrepancy that heavily favored the Cyclones. SUBSCRIBE TO CHATTERBOX BEARCATS ON YOUTUBE!

Nick Niehaus and Eric Lilly discuss the Cincinnati Bearcats' recent three-game winning streak in college basketball. They analyze the team's performance against Utah, BYU, and UCF, highlighting improved offensive output and key player contributions. The hosts debate whether the Bearcats are "back" or simply beating weaker opponents. They preview the upcoming game against Iowa State, breaking down the Cyclones' strengths and the challenges Cincinnati faces. The podcast covers the Bearcats' NCAA tournament prospects, potential roster changes for next season, and standout performances from players like Jizzle, Dayday, and Josh Reed. The hosts also touch on the team's improved shooting and overall confidence during the winning streak. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE PAGE

In this episode of Chatterbox Bearcats, hosts Chuck Walter and Houdini discuss the Cincinnati Bearcats' 85-75 victory over Utah. They analyze the team's recent offensive surge, highlighting standout performances from Jizzle James and Josh Reed. The hosts explore the Bearcats' three-game winning streak and its implications for their tournament chances. Former Cincinnati player Viktor Lakhin makes a surprise appearance, offering insights on Coach Wes Miller and the program's future. The podcast covers game statistics, player development, and the team's upcoming challenges in the Big 12 conference. Throughout the episode, the hosts blend passionate analysis with humor, reflecting on the Bearcats' evolving identity and potential postseason prospects. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE PAGE!

After a rough stretch in Big 12 play, the Cincinnati Bearcats men's basketball team is suddenly giving fans reason for hope. With back-to-back wins over UCF and BYU, the Bearcats have put up 80+ points in consecutive games and are playing with renewed energy and confidence. The 84-66 victory over BYU was particularly impressive, considering Cincinnati lost to the same team by 30 points just two weeks ago. This time around, the Bearcats dominated from start to finish, shooting a blistering 58% from the field and 50% from three-point range. Sophomore guard Jizzle James led the way with a breakout performance, scoring 24 points on 9-of-14 shooting including 6-of-8 from beyond the arc. James has struggled with his outside shot for much of the season, but appears to be finding his rhythm at the right time. Day Day Thomas continued his strong play with 15 points, while Josh Reed added 12 points and some highlight-reel plays including a thunderous two-handed dunk that brought the Fifth Third Arena crowd to its feet. Perhaps most encouraging was the Bearcats' improved ball movement and spacing on offense. They tallied 17 assists on 34 made baskets and looked much more fluid than in recent weeks. Coach Wes Miller's decision to play smaller lineups for longer stretches seems to be paying dividends. At 4-8 in Big 12 play, Cincinnati still faces an uphill battle to make the NCAA Tournament. But with winnable games remaining against Utah, West Virginia, TCU and others, there's a path to finishing strong if they can maintain this level of play. The Bearcats will need to string together several more wins to have a realistic shot at dancing in March. But after looking dead in the water just a week ago, they've injected new life into their season and given fans reason to believe again. Up next is a crucial road game at Utah. A win there would give Cincinnati its first three-game winning streak in Big 12 play and set up a potentially season-defining stretch. The Bearcats aren't back yet, but they're showing signs of the team many expected to see when the season began.

The Cincinnati Bearcats finally showed the fight and tenacity we've been waiting for all season, securing a crucial 93-83 road win against UCF. This victory marks West Miller's first Quad 1 win of the season and breathes new life into a team that seemed to be on the brink of collapse. From the opening tip, it was clear this wasn't the same Bearcats team we've seen struggling in recent weeks. The offense, which has been anemic for much of the season, exploded for 93 points – the highest total we've seen since conference play began. Dayday Thomas set the tone early, pouring in 18 first-half points and finishing with 20 for the game. His aggressive play and quick decision-making were infectious, sparking a team-wide offensive resurgence. Dillon Mitchell was another standout performer, contributing 19 points on an efficient 9-of-14 shooting. His ability to finish around the rim and connect on lob passes provided a much-needed vertical threat to the Bearcats' attack. Aziz Bandaogo also had his best game of the season, scoring 16 points on 7-of-8 shooting and grabbing 6 rebounds. What was most encouraging about this performance was the team's resilience. Every time UCF made a run to close the gap, Cincinnati had an answer. Whether it was a timely three-pointer from Simas Lukosius or a clutch basket from Jizzle James down the stretch, the Bearcats showed a level of composure that has been sorely lacking in recent weeks. While the defense wasn't perfect – allowing UCF to grab 17 offensive rebounds is concerning – the overall effort and energy were vastly improved. The Bearcats forced 16 turnovers and used their length and athleticism to disrupt UCF's offensive flow throughout the game. This win doesn't erase all of the struggles we've endured this season, but it does provide a glimmer of hope. With upcoming home games against BYU and Utah, there's an opportunity to build some momentum and potentially make a late-season push.

Nick Niehaus and Eric Lilly debate all things Cats on the midweek show.

Bagpipes. This is disgusting.

UC loses again. Destroyed on the glass. Missed free throws. It's bad, really bad. Eric Lilly and Nick Niehaus vent about the loss to Utah and take callers. Check us out on YouTube and Instagram.

Bearcats commit Shon Abaev has been named to the McDonald's All-American game, the first Bearcat since Lance Stephenson. Chuck and Houdini react to the news and all things Bearcats. Subscribe to our show on YouTube! Call-In shows after each and every game. The Cincinnati Bearcats' basketball program finds itself in a perplexing situation. Just three weeks ago, the team was ranked and riding high. Now, their NCAA tournament chances have plummeted to a mere 3%. It's a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in college basketball. Despite the on-court struggles, there's a silver lining for Bearcats fans. Shon Abaev, the program's first McDonald's All-American signee since Lance Stephenson, was officially named to the prestigious team. This marks a significant recruiting win for Cincinnati, as Abaev is considered one of the top prospects in the country. The current state of the team, however, is far from ideal. The Bearcats have looked increasingly worse with each game, regardless of venue or opponent's defensive strategy. The lack of answers on the court is concerning, especially considering the talent on the roster. One glaring issue is the isolation-heavy play of Jizzle James. While talented, James rarely scores off assisted baskets, limiting the team's offensive flow. This style of play stands in stark contrast to the successful offenses of past Cincinnati teams under Wes Miller, which featured players like Landers Nolley who could actually shoot. Miller's coaching has come under scrutiny. With a 6-32 record in Quad 1 games and an 0-10 record in Quad 1 home games, the results speak for themselves. The team's regression from last season is particularly alarming, with multiple 20+ point losses already this year. The upcoming game against Utah offers a potential reprieve, but it's clear that a single win won't solve the underlying issues. The Bearcats need a significant turnaround to salvage their season and restore faith in Miller's leadership. Looking ahead, Abaev's arrival next season provides hope. His offensive prowess and length could be the spark Cincinnati desperately needs. However, placing such high expectations on an 18-year-old freshman is a risky proposition. For more insights and a deeper dive into the Bearcats' struggles and future prospects, tune into the Chatterbox Bearcats podcast for this and much more. Other Topics in Today's Chatterbox Bearcats Podcast: • The impact of John Newman's departure on team chemistry • Comparison of current roster to successful past Cincinnati teams • Discussion on Wes Miller's contract situation and future with the program

The Cincinnati Bearcats suffered a crushing defeat against BYU, losing 80-52 in what can only be described as a disappointing performance. As a long-time Bearcats fan, it's hard to watch this team struggle so mightily, especially given the high expectations we had coming into the season. Wes Miller's coaching has come under scrutiny, and rightfully so. The team's inability to break down BYU's zone defense was particularly frustrating. It seemed like the players were lost on the court, unable to execute any semblance of an offensive game plan. This isn't just a one-off performance; it's been a recurring theme throughout the season. The shooting woes continue to plague the Bearcats. Outside of Simas, who hit four three-pointers, the team shot an abysmal 1-for-16 from beyond the arc. Jizzle James, in particular, has struggled with his shot, often forcing up ill-advised attempts that have little chance of going in. What's most concerning is the lack of progress we've seen from this team. With a roster full of experienced players and highly-touted recruits like Dillon Mitchell, we expected to see significant improvement. Instead, we're witnessing a team that looks worse than last year's squad. The defensive effort, which has been a hallmark of Cincinnati basketball for years, was non-existent against BYU. Allowing a team to shoot 62% from three-point range is unacceptable for any program, let alone one with Cincinnati's defensive pedigree. As we look ahead to the rest of the season, it's hard to find many positives. The upcoming game against Utah feels like a must-win, but given our recent performances, it's difficult to be optimistic. The Madsen twins, former John Brannen recruits, will be looking to exact some revenge against their old program. While it's easy to get caught up in the negativity, we must remember that this is still a young season. There's time for the team to turn things around, but it will require significant adjustments from both the coaching staff and players. For more insights and a deeper dive into the Bearcats' struggles, tune into the Chatterbox Bearcats podcast for this and much more. Other Topics in Today's Chatterbox Bearcats Podcast: • Analysis of individual player performances • Discussion on potential roster changes and recruiting needs • Comparison to past Cincinnati teams and their struggles • Fan reactions and calls from listeners

The Cincinnati Bearcats basketball team suffered a tough loss against Texas Tech, leaving fans and analysts questioning the team's performance and future prospects. As we dissect the game, it's clear that rebounding and three-point shooting were major factors in the defeat. The rebounding issue has become a persistent problem for the Bearcats, especially on the offensive end. Texas Tech dominated the glass, securing 10 offensive rebounds compared to Cincinnati's mere three. This disparity not only gave the Red Raiders extra possessions but also demoralized our team at crucial moments. Three-point shooting continues to be a glaring weakness for Cincinnati. While we outshot Texas Tech in overall field goal percentage (52% to 45%), our inability to connect from beyond the arc proved costly. The Red Raiders seemed to hit every crucial three-pointer, particularly towards the end of the first half when they couldn't miss. One bright spot in the game was the performance of Jizzle James, who kept us competitive and prevented the game from becoming a blowout. However, the lack of consistent scoring from other key players like Dan Skillings Jr. and Simas Lukosius is concerning. The loss has reignited discussions about the team's identity and the need for an "alpha" player – someone who can take over games and strike fear into opponents. We haven't had a player of that caliber since Jarron Cumberland, and it's showing in our results against top-tier competition. Looking ahead, we face a crucial road test against BYU on Saturday. The Cougars present a unique challenge with their size, three-point shooting, and rebounding prowess. BYU ranks second in the country in defensive rebounding, which could spell trouble for our already struggling offensive rebounding. To have a chance against BYU, we'll need to improve our perimeter defense and find ways to create open looks from three-point range. The elevation in Utah will be a factor, and our depth will be tested against a BYU team that regularly rotates 9-11 players. Despite the recent setbacks, it's important to remember that we're not a bad team – we're just not elite. We're beating the teams we should beat and losing to the ones we're expected to lose to. However, as a program with a rich history of success, fans are understandably growing restless with our current level of performance. For more insights and a deeper dive into the Bearcats' performance and upcoming challenges, tune into the Chatterbox Bearcats podcast for this and much more. Other Topics in Today's Chatterbox Bearcats Podcast: • The impact of NIL money on player motivation and competitiveness • Comparing Cincinnati's trajectory in the Big 12 vs. staying in the AAC • Potential former Bearcats who could still have eligibility under new rules

The Cincinnati Bearcats suffered a tough loss at home, falling to the Texas Tech Red Raiders 81-71. This defeat puts Cincinnati on the outside looking in when it comes to NCAA Tournament bubble discussions as we enter the late portions of January. Despite shooting 51% from the floor, the Bearcats were outmatched on the glass, with Texas Tech dominating the offensive rebounds 10-3. This disparity in second-chance opportunities proved to be a crucial factor in the game's outcome. The loss is particularly frustrating given that Cincinnati was touted as a strong rebounding team coming into the season. However, they were thoroughly outplayed in that aspect of the game in their own gymnasium. Offensive Struggles and Defensive Lapses While the Bearcats' offense showed flashes of brilliance, their defensive identity seemed to vanish. Texas Tech shot an impressive 12-31 from beyond the arc, exposing Cincinnati's perimeter defense. This is especially concerning given that the Bearcats entered the game ranked second in the nation in three-point defense. The first half saw Texas Tech put up 42 points, with Cincinnati struggling to contain their hot shooting. Despite this, the Bearcats managed to keep the game close, trailing by only four at halftime. However, the second half saw Texas Tech continue their sharp shooting, pulling away as Cincinnati's offense cooled off. The inability to string together stops and capitalize on offensive opportunities ultimately doomed the Bearcats. Looking Ahead This loss puts Cincinnati in a precarious position, with their NCAA Tournament hopes hanging in the balance. The team now faces a crucial stretch of games, including road contests against BYU and Utah, which have suddenly become must-win situations. The Bearcats will need to regroup quickly and address their defensive issues if they hope to turn their season around. With limited opportunities for quality wins remaining on the schedule, every game becomes increasingly important. For more insights and a deeper dive into the Bearcats' performance against Texas Tech, tune into the Chatterbox Bearcats podcast for this and much more. Other Topics in Today's Chatterbox Bearcats Podcast: • Analysis of individual player performances • Discussion on Wes Miller's coaching and future with the program • Comparison of Cincinnati's current struggles to past successful seasons   SUBSCRIBE TO THE SHOW ON YOUTUBE!

Nick Niehaus and Eric Lilly bring you the midweek show. Now, here's an AI written Summary of what can be expected in this show. Sue us. After starting 0-4 in Big 12 play, our Cincinnati Bearcats have bounced back with two straight wins. While victories over Colorado and Arizona State were much-needed, the real test comes Tuesday night when we host Texas Tech. These past two games have shown flashes of what this team can be. Against Arizona State, we built a 16-point lead and held on for a 7-point win. It wasn't always pretty, but we're seeing improvement in key areas. C.J. Fredrick's return from injury provided a spark off the bench. Though his stat line was modest (6 points in 16 minutes), his presence opened things up offensively. When he's on the floor, defenses have to account for his shooting ability. We're still struggling from three-point range as a team (22% vs ASU), but our transition offense looked much improved. We outscored the Sun Devils 25-2 in fast break points, a huge factor in the win. Defensively, we remain elite - currently ranked 7th nationally by KenPom. If we can continue to create turnovers and get out in transition, it takes pressure off our half-court offense. Now comes our biggest test yet - a home date with Texas Tech. The Red Raiders are 13-4 overall and 4-2 in Big 12 play. They're coming off an impressive win over Arizona and sit 12th in KenPom's rankings. Tech is a balanced team, ranking 10th offensively and 35th defensively. They're led by J.T. Topping, who's nearly averaging a double-double (16 points, 9 rebounds). Their roster is filled with transfers from mid-major programs who have gelled quickly. This game feels like a potential turning point for our season. A win would be our first signature victory and silence some of the doubters. A loss would undo much of the goodwill from the past two games. We have some advantages to exploit. Texas Tech is undersized compared to us, so dominating the glass will be crucial. They're also on short rest after playing Saturday, while we've had an extra day to prepare. Ultimately, this is a chance to prove we belong among the Big 12's best. We're overdue for a statement win at home. If we can play with the same energy and execution we've shown the past two games, we have a real shot at the upset. The Bearcats need to play desperate, win 50/50 balls, and take advantage of our size edge inside. Do that, and we might just send a message to the rest of the conference on Tuesday night.  

The Cincinnati Bearcats have notched their first two-game Big 12 winning streak in the regular season, defeating Arizona State 67-60 in a gritty performance. While the game wasn't always pretty, it showcased the team's resilience and ability to grind out a victory when it matters most. Several players stepped up to contribute to the win. Dillon Mitchell led the charge with 14 points, while Simas Lukosius added 10. Jizzle James broke out of his recent slump, putting up 11 points, and Dan Skillings chipped in with 12. This balanced scoring attack is exactly what the Bearcats need to compete in the tough Big 12 conference. One of the key factors in the victory was Cincinnati's dominance in transition. The Bearcats outscored Arizona State 25-2 in fast break points, highlighting their ability to capitalize on turnovers and push the pace. This aggressive style of play could be a game-changer for Cincinnati as they look to make a push in the conference standings. Defensively, the Bearcats continue to impress. Currently ranked as the 8th best defense in the country, Cincinnati's hard-nosed approach is becoming their identity. This defensive prowess will be crucial as they face tougher opponents in the coming weeks. Looking ahead, the Bearcats face a significant test against Texas Tech. A win against the Red Raiders could potentially vault Cincinnati back into the NCAA Tournament conversation. With their current record of 12-5 (2-4 in conference play), the Bearcats are on the bubble, listed as one of the "First Four Out" according to recent bracketology predictions. The team's recent success has breathed new life into their season. If they can maintain this momentum and continue to improve offensively while relying on their stout defense, the Bearcats could make a serious run in the latter half of the season. For more insights and a deeper dive into the Cincinnati Bearcats' recent performances and future outlook, tune into the Chatterbox Bearcats podcast for this and much more. Other Topics in Today's Chatterbox Bearcats Podcast: • Analysis of individual player performances against Arizona State • Discussion on the team's offensive struggles and potential solutions • Breakdown of upcoming Big 12 matchups and their implications for Cincinnati's tournament hopes Subscribe to Chatterbox Bearcats on YouTube and follow us on Instagram!  

The Cincinnati Bearcats held on down the stretch for a 68-62 win over Colorado. Chuck Walter and Hudson Klauke react to the Bearcats first conference win of the season, and whether the win impressed them in the slightest. Subscribe to Chatterbox Bearcats on YouTube.

Nick Niehaus and Eric Lilly offer an in-depth preview of the Cincinnati Bearcats' upcoming away game against the Colorado Buffaloes. They delve into the pivotal players and critical matchups, analyzing how these elements could influence the game's outcome. Additionally, they assess the current condition of the Bearcats' program, spotlighting the hurdles head coach Wes Miller must overcome following a tough stretch of four consecutive defeats.   Be sure to subscribe to Chatterbox Bearcats wherever you get your audio podcasts. The fellas go live on YouTube as the horn sounds for every football and basketball game, then follow with the most entertaining and unfiltered Bearcats show on the planet. Be sure to subscribe to Chatterbox Sports and turn on notifications so you don't miss the LIVE show.   FULL EPISODE ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfYfeCCxeDY    OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Off The Bench: https://otbthombrennaman.podbean.com/  Chatterbox Bengals: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chatterbox-bengals-a-cincinnati-bengals-nfl-podcast/id1652732141  Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Dialed In with Thom Brennaman: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VLxmcTTWV0ubHu_cSFdEDU  Chatterbox Man on the Street: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ye-HjJdmmQ&list=PLjPJjEFaBD7V0GOh595LyjumA0bZaqwh9&pp=iAQB    FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cboxsports Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cboxsports/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/CBoxSports  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cboxsports    GET CBOX GEAR:   Chatterbox Store: www.chatterboxsports.com/store    

Chuck Walter and Eric Lilly break down the state of the Cincinnati Bearcats basketball program and look ahead to their stretch of winnable games.

The Cincinnati men's basketball team trailed by one point late, but No. 11 Kansas scored 14 straight points to pull away down the stretch to win, 54-40, on Saturday at Fifth Third Arena. The Bearcats (10-5 overall, 0-4 Big 12) were led by junior forward Dillon Mitchell (10 points) and post Arrinten Page, who scored nine points and grabbed seven rebounds in 14 minutes off the bench. Kansas was led by center Hunter Dickinson, who had a double-double with 14 points and 12 boards. The Jayhawks improved to 12-3 overall and 3-1 in the conference. Mitchell's jumper with 7:33 left made the score 38-37, but Kansas responded with the game-defining run en route to victory. Consecutive paint baskets by Kansas center Hunter Dickinson and Shakeel Moore put the Jayhawks ahead 42-37. KU guard Zeke Mayo made a layup and then intercepted a Day Day Thomas pass and found Moore for an alley-oop dunk that extended the lead to 46-37. Mayo made another jumper and Kansas forward KJ Adams drilled two free throws to cap the run and give the visitors a 52-37 lead with 1:34 left. Cincinnati's dry spell ended when reserve forward Josh Reed made a 3-pointer at the 1:15 mark.  Reed (five points) combined with Page and guards CJ Fredrick and Thomas to give the Bearcats a spark off the bench. UC held a 16-10 edge in that category. Cincinnati led 25-24 at halftime thanks to 18 points in the paint, including eight from Mitchell. Cincinnati started the game on an 8-2 run with Mitchell skying for an alley-oop dunk for the game's first points.   The Bearcats led by as many as seven in the first half after junior wing Dan Skillings Jr. scored five straight points to put UC in front 21-14 seven minutes before the break. Mitchell's one-handed slam extended Cincinnati's lead to 25-20, but Kansas' KJ Adams made a layup, and AJ Storr hit two free throws, cutting the Bearcats' lead to 1 at the half.   FROM WES MILLER "Needless to say, it's been disappointing couple of weeks, there's no doubt about that. Every part of our team and our program feels that disappointment, I thought our guys came out and played with the kind of energy and the kind of effort and the kind of approach that we should expect, and they played to our standard in that way, coming out of the gates, I was proud of that fight. They've responded well this week to a really disappointing game at Baylor because we didn't have that and I'm proud of that. I'm proud of the way they've stuck together, proud of the way that they're working. I'm proud of the way that they care.  "We didn't make enough plays in the second half. At the end of the first half, and second half, we didn't make enough plays to get over the home tonight. It certainly was frustrating, because some of the mistakes that we made felt very controllable. Not only did they hurt us from converting offensively, they let the baskets on the other end, and that's where the game gets away from you. The offensive board for Kansas. What was a little frustrating there to start the second half, and at times, because we get them to miss, and we couldn't clear some defensive rebounds. Again, the way we finished the first half and some of those aspects of the second half, I'm very well aware of it. There's a little on it for us right now. We're not making shots and we're not converting. Well, even if we do get easy shots, it'll come off. We'll find our offensive rhythm again. We'll find our swagger again offensively." Dillon Mitchell on the message within the team “I think it's just all the little things and we have to stay together. I told the team the other day that we have 16 games left in the conference. I don't even think we've played that many games so far. There's still a lot of season left, and I think we just got to continue to stay together and keep working hard every day in practice, and then translate, bring what we do at practice to the game. It's all the little details that we work on. I mean, there's so much basketball left, and we trust the coaches and trust each other. We know the shots are going to start to fall and when they do, everything's going to open up for us. We just have to continue to lock in, stay focused on the details and stay together. That is the biggest thing. It's all about the 15 other guys in that locker room and all the coaches. That's all that matters. There's a lot of basketball left. We just have to keep fighting and we will respond.”  UP NEXT   Cincinnati hits the road on Wednesday to face Colorado in Boulder, Colo., at 9 p.m. ET. The game will be televised on ESPN+. The Bearcats return to Fifth Third Arena next Saturday, Jan. 18, to host Arizona State at 2 p.m. on CBS Sports Network.

Nick Niehaus and Eric Lilly host the Chatterbox Bearcats Midweek Show and talk about the status of Wes Miller's job as head coach of the Cincinnati Bearcats basketball team. Listen to the crew break down the brutal stretch of losses against Kansas State, Arizona, and Baylor. The Bearcats have another tough one as they host #11 Kansas at Fifth Third Arena. Can the Bearcats avoid a 0-4 start in the Big 12? Subscribe to the show on YouTube.

Reaction the UC's 68-48 loss at Baylor, dropping the Cats to 0-3 in the Big 12.  

The lack of home court advantage once again comes through, as Cincinnati falls to 0-2 in the Big 12 with a loss to Arizona. The Bearcats were booed off the floor in the first half, following a frame where they only dished out four assists as a team. However, the Cats fought hard in the second half to turn a 19-point deficit into a tie game with under a minute to go. Chuck Walter and Hudson Klauke express frustration with Wes Miller's offensive schemes. They debate Miller's future and the team's NCAA tournament prospects.  Join the community on Instagram and YouTube @Chatterbox Bearcats.

In this episode of Chatterbox Bearcats, hosts Nick Niehaus and Eric Lilly preview the upcoming Arizona game and introduce the inaugural "Chatties" awards. They discuss key players to watch in the Arizona matchup, including Caleb Love and Toby Awaka. The hosts then present awards for categories such as Player of the Year, Most Improved Player, and Comeback Player of the Year, reflecting on standout moments from Cincinnati's basketball and football seasons.  Subscribe to Chatterbox Bearcats on YouTube and Instagram.

Nick Niehaus and Eric Lilly provide instant reaction to the UC Bearcats 70-67 loss to Kansas State.   Be sure to subscribe to Chatterbox Bearcats wherever you get your audio podcasts. The fellas go live on YouTube as the horn sounds for every football and basketball game, then follow with the most entertaining and unfiltered Bearcats show on the planet. Be sure to subscribe to Chatterbox Sports and turn on notifications so you don't miss the LIVE show.   FULL EPISODE ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHMj5f8Qjzo    OTHER CHATTERBOX PROGRAMING:   Off The Bench: https://otbthombrennaman.podbean.com/  Chatterbox Bengals: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chatterbox-bengals-a-cincinnati-bengals-nfl-podcast/id1652732141  Chatterbox Reds: https://linktr.ee/chatterboxreds  Dialed In with Thom Brennaman: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjPJjEFaBD7VLxmcTTWV0ubHu_cSFdEDU  Chatterbox Man on the Street: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ye-HjJdmmQ&list=PLjPJjEFaBD7V0GOh595LyjumA0bZaqwh9&pp=iAQB    FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:   TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cboxsports Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cboxsports/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/CBoxSports  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cboxsports    GET CBOX GEAR:   Chatterbox Store: www.chatterboxsports.com/store    

Can the Cincinnati Bearcats basketball team make waves in the Big 12 Conference? With a strong non-conference performance, the Bearcats are poised for an exciting season. Key players like Simas Lukosius and Aziz Bandaogo have been instrumental, showcasing impressive skills that could lead to a standout conference run. Join hosts Nick Niehaus and Eric Lilly as they break down the Bearcats' journey, analyzing victories over Xavier and Dayton, and previewing the crucial matchup against Kansas State. They also tackle mailbag questions about potential coaching changes in UC football. Will the Bearcats capitalize on their momentum and make a statement in the Big 12? Tune in for expert analysis and insights that you won't want to miss! Subscribe to Chatterbox Bearcats on YouTube and follow us on Instagram for nonstop Bearcats content.

The Cincinnati Bearcats continued their impressive start to the season with a dominant 84-49 victory over Grambling State. This win caps off a strong non-conference slate that sees the Cats sitting at 10-1 heading into Big 12 play. While the game against Grambling was never in doubt, there were still some encouraging signs. Aziz Bandaogo led the way with 15 points, including going 5-6 from the free throw line. His improved free throw shooting could be huge for UC moving forward. Dillon Mitchell also had a solid game with 13 points and 7 rebounds. However, Cincinnati's three-point shooting continues to be a concern. UC went just 9-32 (28%) from beyond the arc against Grambling. This has been a trend in recent games after a hot start to the season. Players like Dan Skillings and Jizzle James, who we're counting on to at least be formidable shooters, both went just 1-6 from three. Looking ahead to Big 12 play, UC's schedule sets up favorably compared to some other teams in the conference. Cincy avoids playing powerhouses like Iowa State and Kansas twice, instead getting two games each against more beatable opponents like Kansas State, Utah, BYU and West Virginia. The Big 12 as a whole hasn't looked quite as dominant in non-conference play as many expected. Outside of Iowa State, Kansas, Houston and UC, there aren't many other ranked teams at the moment. Baylor and Arizona in particular have underwhelmed so far.