Cincinnati Bearcats Basketball: 2026-27 Takeaways as American Eagles Fall 79-53

A narrow halftime advantage

Cincinnati began its season with a 26-point win over American on Monday night. The teams were close through the first half, with Cincinnati taking a 35-33 lead into the break.

Jayden Hastings was hurt in the opening minutes, affecting the Bearcats through much of the first half. Tylen Riley scored nine points and handed out five assists, but Cincinnati struggled to find a steady shooting rhythm.

Rebounding turned the game

The Bearcats created separation after halftime by winning the rebounding contest 48-32. Their 16-rebound advantage was the largest margin in the game, and Cincinnati used a pair of strong second-half runs to pull away.

Cincinnati made eight of 27 attempts from outside, but nine players scored at least five points. Myles Colvin contributed three points and a team-high seven rebounds, showing value on the glass from the guard position.

Collins and Tejada deliver

MJ Collins scored 13 points, with most of his impact coming after halftime. After scoring three points in the opening half, he attacked the basket and made shots from deep as Cincinnati took control.

Tejada also scored 13 points and collected five rebounds in 22 minutes. The Towson transfer, who had led his team in scoring in each of the previous two seasons, provided a steady contribution and helped with Cincinnati’s rebounding effort.

An early test ahead

Cincinnati will look to address its first-half problems before facing Green Bay on Thursday at 7 p.m. ET. The game will provide the Bearcats another chance to put together a complete performance.