Simas Lukosius Dominates with 20 Points in Season Opener
- Cincinnati defeated Arkansas-Pine Bluff 109-54 in their season opener.
- The Bearcats had six players scoring in double figures and showed significant depth despite missing key players.
- This victory marks Cincinnati's return to the AP poll, indicating positive prospects for the season.
On November 4, 2024, No. 20 Cincinnati showcased a strong performance in their season opener against Arkansas-Pine Bluff, winning decisively with a score of 109-54. Simas Lukosius led the Bearcats with 20 points, supported by Dan Skillings Jr. who added 17 points. The game marked Cincinnati's first rank in the AP poll since the 2018-19 season, reflecting their return to competitiveness. Connor Hickman and Jizzle James also contributed notably, with 13 and 12 points, respectively, highlighting the team's depth as six players scored in double figures. Cincinnati started the game slowly, shooting only 4 of 10 initially, but quickly found their rhythm. A critical 17-2 run at the end of the first half pushed their lead to 55-32, with James hitting a buzzer-beating three-pointer. This improvement demonstrates the Bearcats’ ability to regroup and capitalize on scoring opportunities, a necessary skill for their upcoming matches. Meanwhile, Arkansas-Pine Bluff struggled against ranked opponents, demonstrating a concerning record of 0-33 since achieving Division I status in 1998. The Golden Lions played without their top players, which contributed to their defeat. As Cincinnati prepares to host Morehead State next, they aim to build on this momentum and address concerns from the free-throw line performance. Overall, Cincinnati's strong opening indicates their potential for a successful season, crucial for reclaiming their place in the NCAA Tournament.