Last night the Bearcats blasted past the UCF Knights at Fifth Third Arena with a final score of 83-60.
The ball was going in the bucket tonight, early and often. Octavius Ellis stole the show with a career-high 20 points (7-10 shooting), 8 boards, 3 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block. Shaq Thomas added another 13 points on 6-8 shooting. Clark, Cobb, and Caupain also posted double figures. That means FIVE, count them 5, Bearcats scored in double digits. For the game UC shot for a season-high 64.7% and a ridiculous 75% from beyond the arc. UC also racked up 20 assists.
UC had another high turnover first half with 8, but played nearly flawlessly overall on offense. The Cats are a different team when Shaq Thomas plays aggressively, drives, and takes high quality shots.
The Bearcat defense forced just 10 turnovers, but had 5 blocks. UC also contained the quick and dynamic freshman UCF guards, preventing paint points and dribble drive kick-outs. For the game, UCF shot the ball just 38.5% and 25.0% from 3, going 4-16 from 3.
Next up, UC travels to New Orleans to take on the pesky Tulane Green Wave at 2 pm ET on CBS Sports Network. Last time around Tulane stunned the Cats with a buzzer beater 3-pointer at Fifth Third Arena.
By Andy Smith