Texas Tech Hosts Hot Cincinnati Squad in Big XII Clash

Red Raiders look to cool off Bearcats' recent winning streak as teams battle for NCAA Tournament positioning

Feb. 24, 2026 at 3:36am

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The Texas Tech Red Raiders will host the surging Cincinnati Bearcats in a key Big XII matchup, as both teams look to bolster their NCAA Tournament resumes. Cincinnati has won four straight games, including impressive victories over Kansas State and Kansas, thanks to a potent offense and stifling defense. However, Texas Tech's perimeter-oriented attack poses a unique challenge for the Bearcats' towering frontcourt duo of Baba Miller and Moustapha Thiam.

Why it matters

This game has significant implications for both teams' postseason aspirations. Texas Tech is looking to maintain its position in the Big XII standings and solidify its NCAA Tournament standing, while Cincinnati is fighting to improve its resume and secure a spot in the Big Dance. The outcome could have a major impact on the seeding and positioning of these two teams come March.

The details

Cincinnati has found its offensive groove during its recent winning streak, averaging 84 points per game. This efficiency, combined with the Bearcats' typically stout defense, has made them a formidable opponent. However, Texas Tech's perimeter shooting poses a unique challenge, as the Red Raiders are one of the most deadly 3-point shooting teams in the Big XII. The battle between Cincinnati's towering frontcourt and Texas Tech's perimeter-oriented attack will be a key factor in determining the outcome.

  • The game tips off at 6:00 PM on February 24, 2026.
  • Texas Tech and Cincinnati have met twice previously, with the Red Raiders holding a 1-1 series advantage.

The players

Baba Miller

A 6-foot-11 forward for Cincinnati who averages a double-double and is one of the best players in the Big XII that many fans are not yet familiar with.

Moustapha Thiam

A 7-foot-2 center for Cincinnati who averages 12 points, 6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game.

Sencire Harris

A perimeter defender for Cincinnati who is one of the best in the Big XII and may be assigned to guard Texas Tech's top shooters.

Donovan Atwell

Texas Tech's lockdown perimeter defender who will likely be tasked with slowing down Cincinnati's backcourt.

Luke Bamgboye

A Texas Tech forward who, along with Marial Akuentok, could be used to match up with Cincinnati's size in the frontcourt.

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What they’re saying

“Baba Miller is probably the best player in the Big XII who hardly anybody knows anything about.”

— Joe Yeager, Author

“Combine that offensive efficiency with their rugged defense and it's easy to see why Cincinnati has been on a tear. And Texas Tech had better beware.”

— Joe Yeager, Author

What’s next

The winner of this game will take a significant step towards securing a higher seed in the Big XII Tournament, which could impact their NCAA Tournament seeding and path.

The takeaway

This matchup between two teams fighting for their NCAA Tournament lives promises to be a hard-fought, high-stakes battle that will come down to which team can best neutralize the other's strengths. The clash of Cincinnati's size and defense against Texas Tech's perimeter shooting will be a key factor in determining the outcome.