2006 Cincinnati Bearcats Basketball Preview

2006 Cincinnati Bearcats Basketball Predictions

Hey, let’s gut the basketball program, get rid of the head coach and bring in a new guy in March and see what happens. That’s the scenario under which the Bearcats’ new coach Mick Cronin found himself a few months ago. With just three scholarship players in-hand, Cronin, a former Cincinnati player who headed the Murray State (69- 23) program for three years, zipped into action and landed six junior college transfers and 1 high school player. It might not be that bad a year for the Bearcats after all.

Point guard Tim Crowell (11.0 PPG, 7.5 APG), who has a fine transition game, joins the team from Midland (Texas) College and could assume the starting position. Another junior college recruit, Deonta Vaughn will contribute immediately. At shooting guard, Marvin Gentry can score and has good defensive skills and Jamual Warren has the ability to slash through defenders. Both also come from the junior college ranks.

At forward, senior Cedric McGowan (8.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 0.9 APG, 44.2 FG%, 69.1 FT%) looks ready to have a breakout season. At center, Cincinnati secured junior college standout Hernol Hall, who can play the post, hit the mark from inside and outside and grab rebbies. Marcus Sikes is a big-bodied forward who can bang inside and John Williamson brings a potent shot from the junior ranks.

Cronin has managed to put together a talented team. The question is can he mold them into a cohesive team? The Big East is a tough conference and the Bearcats are loaded with players that have only one year of eligibility left. Thus far, Cronin has done a fine job.

The Bearcats could be in the mix for a playoff position in a conference that sent 8 teams to the tournament last season. This is a tough one to predict due to the fine junior college experience but untested nature of the players in Division I ball. Still, with one returning starter, McGowan, and a cadre of scorers, the Bearcats could scratch their way into the middle of the pack and end up in the tournament.

If you want more info on the 2006 Cincinnati Bearcats College basketball team check out the NCAA's official basketball team page of the program or check out some rival previews from Maddux Sports of schools like the Rutgers Scarlet Knights and South Florida Bulls.