Cincinnati Bearcats coach Wes Miller provides insights into the composition and expectations of the men’s basketball team for the upcoming 2023-24 season. This season, Coach Miller is leading a team of 15 players, all of whom were captured in a team photo at Fifth Third Arena.
The Cincinnati Bearcats boast a diverse roster, featuring four graduate students, two seniors, one redshirt junior, three juniors, two sophomores, a redshirt freshman, and two true freshmen. Notable returning players include Ody Oguama, a 6-foot-9, 230-pound graduate student, and Viktor Lakhin, a 6-11, 240-pound redshirt junior. John Newman III, a 6-5, 215-pound wing, also returns after a medical redshirt. Additionally, Dan Skillings Jr., a 6-6, 215-pound guard, Josh Reed, a 6-7, 220-pound shooter, C.J. Anthony, a reserve junior 6-foot guard, Sage Tolentino, a 7-1, 240-pound redshirt freshman forward, and Chase Kirkwood, a 6-1, 190-pound junior guard, are back for another season.
Coach Miller has also made notable additions to the team through the portal. Aziz Bandaogo, a 7-footer weighing 235 pounds, and Jamille Reynolds, a 6-11, 275-pound post, bring a physical presence to the team. Covington Catholic graduate C.J. Fredrick, a 6-3, 190-pound graduate student, who previously played at Kentucky and Iowa, also joins the roster. Simas Lukošius, a 6-8, 225-pound junior from Butler, provides additional support in both the post and perimeter.
The team has also welcomed new faces, such as DaVeon “Day Day” Thomas, a 6-foot junior guard from junior college, and Edgerrin “Jizzle” James Jr., a 6-1, 195-pound freshman. Rayvon Griffith, a 6-7, 205-pound guard from Taft High, has returned to his hometown after playing at Arizona Compass. Additionally, Landen Long, a 5-11 graduate student guard from Mason who previously played at Ohio Northern, has joined as a walk-on player.
As the season approaches, there are several key factors to watch. Coach Miller updates the status of the NCAA appeals for Aziz Bandaogo and Jamille Reynolds, hoping for a positive outcome that allows them to play. The presence of additional post players like Bandaogo and Reynolds could have a significant impact on the team’s performance, providing relief to established players such as Oguama and Lakhin.
Another crucial aspect to consider is three-point shooting. While players like Lakhin and Reed have shown promise, the team has gained talented shooters through transfers. C.J. Fredrick, who previously had an impressive three-point shooting record at Iowa, and Simas Lukošius, who had a successful season at Butler, will help UC improve their long-range shooting.
With a roster capable of competing against tough Big 12 opponents, the Bearcats have the potential to break into the Top 25 rankings. Coach Miller emphasizes the importance of team chemistry and the players’ drive to succeed. Despite the challenges they face, the team remains focused on competing for championships and preparing players for professional careers.
Ultimately, the goal for the Cincinnati Bearcats is to return to the NCAA tournament. Coach Miller acknowledges that it will take time to fully understand the team’s dynamics and strengths, but their dedication to improvement is unwavering. The team aims to continue the tradition of success and make a mark in the tournament, just as they did in 2019 under the guidance of former coach Mick Cronin.
Laura Davis covers the world of basketball with precision. Her articles explore NBA and college basketball, offering game analysis, player profiles, and highlights. Laura’s passion for hoops is evident in her comprehensive basketball coverage.
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