Cincinnati Bearcats Defeats N.C.State 68-57.

The University Cincinnati Bearcats Men’s Basketball took on the N.C. State Wolfpack yesterday afternoon, as part of the ESPN tip off

marathon and with 7,028 fans at Fifth Third Arena,  saw the Bearcats (2-0) fought off the Wolfpack 68-57.

The Bearcats were lead by their Senior captains Senior Gurard Sean Kilpatrick led the team in scoring with 21 points, Kilpatrick drained three triples and was 8-for-8 from the free throw line. He also had three assists and two steals.  The energize bunny for the Cats Senior Justin Jackson provided the spark and energy, also he had his first career double-double (10 points, 10 rebounds).

The game was a see-saw battle throughout, featuring eight lead changes and 12 ties. The score was tied at 35  at halftime. Kilpatrick drained a three with nine minutes left remaining that sent UC on a 17-9 run to end the game with Kilpatrick ringing up nine points over the last 8:40. The team held N.C. State to only four points in the final five minutes of the game, to en route to the 11 point victory.

The defense for Cincinnati stiffened up big time in the second half, allowing the Wolfpack to shoot 26.7 (8-for-30) in the second half while blocking nine shots and forcing eight turnovers. Jackson had 4 blocks, which got the crowd and the team into the game. He had highlight dunk to open the 2nd half, according to the players on the team really got them riled up. Senior Titus Rubels looks more improved on his game  had 14 points and 7 rebounds, the youngsters had a big impact on the game especially point guard Troy Caupain and Jermaine Lawrence.  UC held NC State’s best player TJ Warren to only 13 points.

UC continues action in the four-game Global Sports Shootout, taking on Appalachian State on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 2 p.m. ET inside Fifth Third Arena. The game will be televised by FOX Sports Ohio.