The Cincinnati Bearcats are looking to capitalize on their recent form, having won 3 of their last 5 games, including a crucial 75-68 victory over the Oklahoma Sooners, to improve their conference standing and bolster their tournament resume, which currently boasts a 1-9 record against Quad 1 opponents and a 3-2 mark against Quad 2 foes. With a NET ranking of 61, Cincinnati is squarely on the bubble, and a win over the Utah Utes would be a valuable addition to their portfolio, especially considering the Utes' Quad 1 designation for this matchup. The Bearcats' 13-12 overall record and 5-7 conference mark leave little room for error, as they aim to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
Cincinnati Bearcats' 40.5% Defensive Field Goal Percentage Ranks 15th Nationally
The game is scheduled for February 15, 2026, at 7:00 PM ET, and will be held at Fifth Third Arena, the home of the Cincinnati Bearcats. The matchup will be broadcast on ESPN+, providing fans with an opportunity to witness the Bearcats' 81.2 points per game offense, which has been fueled by their 45.6% field goal percentage, against the Utes' struggling defense.
The Utah Utes have struggled to find consistency this season, posting a 9-15 overall record and a 1-10 mark in conference play, with their most recent outing resulting in a 70-65 loss to the Texas Tech Red Raiders. The Utes' NET ranking of 130 reflects their difficulties, particularly in Quad 1 matchups, where they have failed to secure a single victory in 8 attempts. However, they have shown glimpses of promise, with a 2-1 record in Quad 3 games and a 5-1 mark in Quad 4 contests. Utah's recent form has been marred by a 5-game losing streak, during which they have averaged just 68.2 points per game, while allowing their opponents to score 74.4 points per contest.
Key Matchups
In contrast, the Cincinnati Bearcats have demonstrated a level of resilience, having won 5 of their last 10 games, including a 65-62 victory over the Kansas State Wildcats, to improve their conference standing. The Bearcats' 13-12 overall record and 5-7 conference mark are a reflection of their ability to compete against top-tier opponents, with their 1-9 record against Quad 1 foes and 3-2 mark against Quad 2 opponents highlighting the challenges they have faced. Cincinnati's NET ranking of 61 is a reflection of their strong defensive performance, which has limited opponents to just 40.5% shooting from the field and 32.1% from beyond the arc.
The Cincinnati Bearcats' defensive prowess will be put to the test against the Utah Utes' offense, which has struggled to find its rhythm, averaging just 71.5 points per game. The Bearcats' defense, on the other hand, has been stellar, allowing only 68.5 points per contest, while forcing opponents to commit 14.1 turnovers per game. The Utes' 43.2% field goal percentage will be challenged by the Bearcats' 40.5% defensive field goal percentage, setting the stage for a low-scoring affair. Additionally, the Bearcats' 35.1% three-point shooting will be pitted against the Utes' 32.5% three-point defense, which could prove to be a decisive factor in the outcome.
CHD Scout Prediction
Utah
67
Cincinnati
81
For the Cincinnati Bearcats, guard David DeJulius has been a standout performer, averaging 15.6 points per game, while shooting 42.1% from the field and 38.5% from beyond the arc. Forward Jeremiah Davenport has also been a key contributor, posting 12.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per contest, while shooting 45.6% from the field. On the Utah Utes' side, guard Rollie Worster has been a bright spot, averaging 13.4 points and 4.5 assists per game, while shooting 41.9% from the field and 35.1% from three-point range. Forward Branden Carlson has also been a significant contributor, posting 12.5 points and 6.1 rebounds per contest, while shooting 46.2% from the field.
Tournament Stakes
According to the CHD Scout prediction, the Cincinnati Bearcats are favored to win by 14.8 points, with an 88.8% win probability. This prediction is based on the Bearcats' strong defensive performance and the Utes' struggles on offense, which have resulted in Utah averaging just 68.2 points per game over their last 5 contests. The Bearcats' ability to limit opponents' scoring opportunities, combined with their own 81.2 points per game average, makes them a formidable opponent for the Utes.
A win for the Cincinnati Bearcats would be a significant boost to their tournament resume, particularly given the Utes' Quad 1 designation for this matchup. The Bearcats' current NET ranking of 61 and 1-9 record against Quad 1 opponents make this game a crucial opportunity to strengthen their portfolio. On the other hand, a win for the Utah Utes would be a much-needed quality victory, as they seek to build a tournament resume and improve their NET ranking of 130. The Utes' 0-8 record in Quad 1 games makes this matchup a chance to prove themselves against a top-tier opponent.