Cincinnati finished last in the Big East in 2006-7 but with much more experience returning they won’t be in the cellar again.

Frontcourt - John Williamson came in as a JUCO transfer and put up some big numbers. He led the club with 7.3rpg and also had 13.5ppg to finish 2nd in scoring. He had double figures in the last nine games. Maurice Sikes will return in the frontcourt. He averaged 9.5ppg and 5.0rpg and shot 42.5% from the three point line. The backups in the frontcourt are untested. Mike Williams and Adam Hryciniuk both sat out last season. Hryciniuk is a transfer from Texas. New faces in the frontcourt include 6-11 Anthony McClain, 6-8 Kenny Belton and 6-8 Darnell Wilkes. GRADE - B-

Backcourt - All three backcourt starters are back with Deontea Vaughn (14.5ppg, 3.5apg) leading from the point guard position. Jamual Warren (8.0ppg, 3.7rpg) returns at SG and Marvin Gentry (7.4ppg, 2.8rpg) returns at SF. Brandon Miller is the only backup with experience in the backcourt. Larry Davis, Rashad Bishop, and Alvin Mitchell are all Freshmen who will be of help as the season progresses. GRADE - C+

Depth - Mick Cronin had only eleven players suited up last year when everyone was healthy and that was not often. This year he has a full bench even though there is no experience on it. With five starters returning the Bearcats will not have to rely on tight ends and other walk ons. But the bottom line here is that they are still very slim depth-wise. GRADE - D

Outlook - Bilas has the Bearcats finishing 14th and I can’t see that happening. They have a decent starting lineup coming back and all now have a year of experience in the Big East wars. I see Cincy moving up toward a fight for a spot at MSG in March. If they can avoid injuries, they have a chance for a 10-13 place finish. GRADE - C

Categories: Commentary, Cincinnati, Coach O
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