The crisp sound of squeaking sneakers echoes through Fifth Third Arena, and I can already feel it—this could be a special season for Cincinnati Bearcats basketball. Having followed this program through rebuilding years and breakout campaigns, I’m sensing something different in the air this time. It’s not just optimism; it’s a quiet confidence that this team has the pieces to not only compete but to truly dominate. When you look at the roster, the coaching, and the momentum from last season, the path is there. The real question isn’t whether they can win games—it’s how the Cincinnati Bearcats basketball team can dominate this season, and I believe they’re closer than many think.
Let’s start with what we already know. Last season gave us a glimpse of what’s possible, especially when you have a player like Viktor Fajardo controlling the paint. I still remember watching him pull down rebounds in traffic like it was nothing—the guy just has a nose for the ball. The numbers back it up, too: Fajardo led the league in rebounding with 16.1 per game and shot an incredible 60 percent from the field. On top of that, he ranked third in scoring with an average of 19.2 points. That’s not just good; that’s dominant. When you have a big man who can score that efficiently and clean the glass like that, you’ve got a foundation. I’ve seen teams built around less.
But domination isn’t just about one player, no matter how talented. What excites me about this year’s squad is the depth they’ve developed. We’ve got returning guards who’ve improved their decision-making, and a couple of freshmen who aren’t just filling spots—they’re pushing the veterans in practice. I spoke with a source close to the team last week, and they mentioned the intensity in closed scrimmages has been “playoff-level.” That kind of internal competition breeds excellence. If the Bearcats can establish a consistent three-point threat to complement Fajardo’s interior presence, defenses won’t know what hit them.
I also think the non-conference schedule sets up nicely for building momentum. There are a few challenging matchups, sure, but nothing this team can’t handle if they play to their potential. Early wins build confidence, and confidence can snowball into something bigger. Remember a few years ago when they started 12-0? That team played with a swagger you couldn’t teach. This group has the talent to do something similar, especially if they buy into the defensive identity that Coach Wes Miller is preaching. Defense travels, as they say, and if they can lock teams down night after night, they’ll be in every game.
Of course, there are hurdles. The American Athletic Conference is tough, and Houston isn’t going to just hand over the crown. But I like the Bearcats’ chances if they stay healthy and focused. I’ve always believed that great teams have a next-man-up mentality, and the roster seems deeper this year. When Fajardo rests, they need someone who can hold the fort—and from what I’ve seen in preseason, they might have that.
Some fans worry about the half-court offense when the game slows down, and that’s fair. But with Fajardo’s ability to score in the post and draw double-teams, shooters should get open looks. If they knock those down consistently, good luck stopping them. It’s all about execution. I’ve watched this team grow, and the pieces are there—they just need to put it all together.
When I look at the potential of this squad, I keep coming back to one idea: how the Cincinnati Bearcats basketball team can dominate this season isn’t a mystery. It starts with Fajardo’s inside presence, extends to improved perimeter play, and is fueled by a defense that can stifle opponents. Add in a favorable schedule and strong leadership, and you’ve got the recipe for something memorable. I’m not saying they’ll go undefeated, but I do think they can control games in a way we haven’t seen in a while. The excitement is building, and if they play their cards right, this could be one of those seasons we talk about for years to come.