UC Bearcat basketball '09-'10 predictions

August 13, 9:20 AMCincinnati Bearcats ExaminerTom O'Brien

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  Yancy Gates th (Behrman/AP)

This year’s Cincinnati basketball team is by far the most talented squad the Bearcats have amassed since the days of Bob Huggins. It’s anyone’s guess as to who the starting five will be but even though no one but Mick Cronin knows for sure I thought it would be interesting to predict and project.

I see two possible starting lineup scenarios: a standard lineup and a smaller lineup. I will admit I’m hoping for the latter. Maybe I’m too sentimental; I’m hoping a smaller lineup may lead to the use of the press and will recapture the days of the dominant and ferocious trapping defense. Here’s my projection in regards to both lineups:

If I had to guess I’d go with the standard lineup. Although the ‘Cats are deep and talented at the guard and forward spots, they don’t possess the quickness of a Nick Van Exel, Tarrance Gibson, Anthony Buford, Herb Jones, Corie Blount lineup. Staying with the prediction of the standard lineup, I think Bearcat fans will have a lot to look forward to.

First and foremost, the addition of a quality point guard will help Mick Cronin’s team immensely. Cashmere Wright will not only be able to get teammates the ball in advantageous spots on the court but he should raise Vaughn’s game to the next level. Without the pressure of running the offense, Vaughn should have his best year as a Bearcat.

No matter the scenario, I can’t see a starting lineup at doesn’t include Lance Stephenson in the three spot. He’s too good to sit on the bench, and with a probable one and done career as a collegiate player the ‘Cats need to ride his coattails while he’s here. If he was truly “Born Ready” he will have no problem stepping in and making any immediate impact.

For all the outside and mid-range prowess U.C. possesses, winning basketball teams must also have the compliment of inside scoring and rebounding. There is no question that Gates and Toyloy should show improvement from last season. The questions are whether 7’0” Anthony McClain will finally show the skills that earned him a ranking as the 8th best center in America coming out of high school, and what will Ibrahima Thomas add to the team come December 13 vs. Xavier. Will Thomas use his athleticism and 6’11” frame to help inside or will be more of a finesse, mid-range shooting big man?

A good starting squad is one thing but every quality DI program needs quality bench players too. One thing the 2009-2010 Bearcats do not lack is depth. Depth at both guard positions includes Larry Davis and Dion Dixon as well as freshmen Jaquon Parker and Sean Kilpatrick. I would be remiss if I didn’t also include Eddie Tyree and Alex Eppensteiner as compliments to the ‘Cats overall backcourt depth.

The frontcourt depth will be comprised of small forwards Bishop and Wilks, as well as the afore mentioned big men Thomas and McClain. Although “the bigs” are U.C.’s weakness, if Thomas can improve on his output at Oklahoma State and if “Biggie” McClain can be produce just long enough to give Gates a rest from time to time, the Bearcats should have just enough frontcourt production to battle their way through the Big East.

As for my overall team prediction, I think it’s safe to add six wins to last year’s record. The additions of a solid point guard, Cashmere Wright, and arguably the best high school player in America, Lance Stephenson, will have a huge, positive impact on the ‘Cats. As a result, I’m predicting a 24-8 regular season record with an 11 win Big East campaign. Of course I also believe the Bearcats will finally receive a spot in the NCAA tournament. No, I’m not predicting a national championship, but I do think a Sweet 16 appearance is realistic. I can’t wait for the season to begin.

 Below are my individual player projections. You'll notice I have lofty expectations. Last year's squad averaged 68.3 points, 41.4 rebounds, and 13 assists per game. I'm projecting vast improvement in all areas, especially points per game.