Back in Fifth Third Arena for the first time in nine days, the University of Cincinnati had another knockdown drag-out American Athletic Conference game holding off SMU 73-68. The Bearcats had a few double-digit leads, but the Mustangs kept within striking distance on long distance treys from Jahmal McMurray, who finished with 21 to lead the Mustangs.
Fortunately for the Bearcats, his final 3-ball attempt hit nothing with five seconds left and the Bearcats were able to send the bulk of the sellout crowd of 12,256 home happy.
"Good defense," UC center Nysier Brooks replied when asked about McMurray's errant loft.