Cincinnati Bearcats vs
Central Florida Golden KnightsPredictions & Preview

Central Florida Favored to Win Big 12 Showdown Against Struggling Cincinnati Bearcats

In this upcoming Big 12 showdown, the struggling Cincinnati team (12-9, 2-8 Big 12) will be facing off against the Central Florida team (13-8, 4-6 Big 12). Cincinnati won both matchups against UCF last season, but both teams are coming off recent losses. Cincinnati lost to West Virginia while UCF fell to BYU. The game is scheduled for 7:00 EST and will be televised on CBSSN. Central Florida is currently the betting favorite at -2.5.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Bearcats +128 | Golden Knights -154
• Spread: Bearcats +2.5 (-110) | Golden Knights -2.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 145 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Central Florida will win straight-up is 61%.

Cincinnati vs Central Florida Stats

Cincinnati Bearcats

The Cincinnati Bearcats are currently struggling in the Big 12 standings with a 2-8 record, just ahead of the winless Colorado Buffaloes. They have lost their last four games, including a recent home loss against West Virginia where they were led by Day Day Thomas with 10 points. Their top scorer this season is Simas Lukosius, a senior guard averaging 12.0 PPG. Dan Skillings Jr. is their next top scorer with 10.5 PPG, but has been in a bit of a slump. Dillon Mitchell is their top frontcourt player, averaging 10.3 PPG and 6.7 RPG. Cincinnati's offensive efficiency ranks 165th, while their defensive efficiency is ranked 15th. They are not currently projected to receive an at-large bid for the NCAA Tournament. Offensively, they shoot 44.80% from the field and 31.70% from three-point range, ranking #182 and #298 respectively. Defensively, they allow 40.49% of field goals and 30.59% of three-pointers, ranking #47 and #52 respectively. Overall, Cincinnati is struggling and needs to make improvements to climb out of their current standings.

Central Florida Golden Knights Analysis

The UCF Knights are currently on the bubble for the NCAA Tournament, with Joe Lunardi listing them as the "Last Team In" and projected to be an 11-seed playing in the First Four. Despite losing four of their last five games, with three of those losses against ranked opponents, the Knights are led by Keyshawn Hall who is their leading scorer and rebounder. Hall, a transfer from George Mason, is putting up impressive numbers in the Big 12. Darius Johnson and Jordan Ivy-Curry also contribute to the team's scoring. UCF is ranked 58th overall according to KenPom, with a fast-paced playing style that contrasts with Cincinnati. In terms of offensive and defensive efficiency, the Knights rank 49th and 81st respectively. To improve their standing on the tournament bubble, UCF needs more conference wins.

In terms of power rankings, the Central Florida Golden Knights rank 193 overall, with a strong offensive performance averaging 79.62 points per game. However, their defense ranks 337th, allowing an average of 78.76 points per game. The team's shooting percentages for field goals, free throws, and three-pointers are detailed, with rankings provided for each category. Defensive statistics such as field goal percentage and rebounds allowed are also included. The Knights average in defensive assists and turnovers are also provided. Overall, the team's performance on offense outshines their defense, and improvements are needed in various areas to enhance their overall performance.

UCF Knights Look to Secure NCAA Tournament Spot with Win Against Cincinnati Grizzlies

The University of Central Florida Knights are currently cognizant of their precarious position on the bubble as we move further into February, emphasizing the urgency of winning games against lower-ranking teams in the Big 12 conference. With a potent and explosive offense, the Knights are poised to secure a victory, especially with the advantage of playing on their home court. UCF boasts three players who outscore Cincinnati's top scorer, with Keyshawn Hall standing out for his recent impressive performance and skillset as a versatile guard. In contrast, Cincinnati's Lukosius struggles to maintain a consistent scoring average, while Skillings has faced challenges in putting points on the board. As evidenced by their offensive efficiency rankings, UCF's formidable scoring ability presents a formidable challenge for Cincinnati, making it unlikely for the Bearcats to keep pace with the Knights on the road. It is advisable to bet on UCF to cover the spread in this matchup.

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