Cincinnati Bearcats Rout BYU, Boost NCAA Tournament Hopes

Bearcats continue hot streak in Big 12 play with dominant win over Cougars

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Cincinnati Bearcats continued their surge towards an NCAA Tournament berth with a convincing 90-68 victory over BYU on Wednesday night. All five Cincinnati starters scored in double figures, led by Jalen Celestine and Jizzle James with 18 points each. Baba Miller recorded a double-double with 15 points and 12 rebounds to go along with 5 assists. The win moved Cincinnati into 7th place in the Big 12 standings, a key position to avoid a first-round conference tournament game.

Why it matters

Cincinnati has been fighting to return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time this decade, and this victory over a fellow bubble team in BYU keeps the Bearcats firmly in the hunt. Head coach Wes Miller's squad has played as one of the top teams in the country over the past month, boosting their tournament resume with strong Big 12 results.

The details

Cincinnati controlled the game from start to finish, holding BYU to just 43% shooting and forcing 15 turnovers. The Bearcats also won the rebounding battle 36-34. Celestine and James led the scoring, while Miller continued his impressive all-around play. Cincinnati's offense has come alive in recent weeks, shooting over 41% from 3-point range and 74% from the free throw line since February.

  • The win moved Cincinnati into 7th place in the Big 12 standings on March 4, 2026.
  • Cincinnati plays its next key game on the road against fellow bubble team TCU on March 7, 2026 at 2 p.m. ET.

The players

Jalen Celestine

A Cincinnati starter who scored 18 points in the win over BYU.

Jizzle James

A Cincinnati starter who also scored 18 points in the victory.

Baba Miller

A Cincinnati starter who recorded a double-double with 15 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists.

Wes Miller

The head coach of the Cincinnati Bearcats, who has guided the team's surge towards an NCAA Tournament berth.

A.J. Dybantsa

A BYU player and projected top-5 NBA Draft pick who scored a team-high 23 points in the loss.

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What they’re saying

“We talked about it after the Kansas game. I knew that would create some tournament talk. Our team agreed. I am not going to participate in the chatter. We are going to focus on the next game. However, I do believe that we will be playing in the NCAA Tournament.”

— Wes Miller, Head Coach, Cincinnati Bearcats (Cincinnati Bearcats)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.