Tis’ the season, this is what everyone has been waiting for the Women’s basketball game day opener against Alabama A&M Bulldogs. After a long year of no fans, everyone was excited to see everyone in the stands. Would the Bearcats be able to start this season off on the right foot?
The Starting Five for the Bearcats were #1 Caitlyn Wilson (guard); #2 Akira Levy (guard) #10 Jaydn Scott (forward) #15 Arame Niang (center) #20 Jillian Hayes (guard).
During the first quarter, Cincinnati started on a 13-3 run to impose their will on Alabama A&M. Cincinnati ended the first quarter up 20-6. During the second quarter, Cincinnati had pushed the lead to 19 points. Hayes with nine points, four rebounds, one block and two steals. Niang had eight points and eight rebounds in the half.
The Bearcats continued to shoot well in the third period which gave them a lead of 57-43. Cincinnati went on to win 73-60, holding Alabama A&M to 26.8% shooting from the field, the game was only semi close because the Bearcats were a little foul happy allowing them 27 free throw attempts which they made 17. Cincinnati shot 42.4% from the field and only hit three 3 pointers, but did get to shoot 31 free throws themselves while knocking down 20.
Jillian Hayes had 17 points, 9 rebounds, 4 blocks, and 2 steals. Arame Niang had 11 rebounds to go with the 8 points. Akira Levy led the team and had 6 assists and 4 steals to go with the 12 points. Malea Williams had had 9 points and 5 rebounds.
Cincinnati is now 1-0 and will host Bellermine at Fifth Third Arena on Friday at 7 pm. The game will be on ESPN+, will the Bearcats be able to start the season 2-0?
