Bearcats senior forward Landers Nolley II was seemingly unstoppable, scoring a team-high 24 points including six 3-pointers, but it wasn’t enough in a 75-69 loss at Houston on Saturday.
Despite going down with an injury in practice this week, Nolley racked up 24 points, six rebounds and three assists, while shooting 9/14 from the field and 6/10 from 3-point range.
It wasn’t enough to propel Cincinnati to a crucial road win but Nolley continued to play at an all-conference level and led the Bearcats in scoring for the fourth time in five games.
The Georgia native has reached double-figure scoring in 12 straight games and recently received All-AAC weekly honors twice after averaging 17.8 points since AAC play started.
#Bearcats senior forward Landers Nolley II earned AAC weekly honors after fueling wins over East Carolina and SMU, while recording back to back double-doubles! 🔥https://t.co/Nc6MflQQBh pic.twitter.com/1v3rHSmBMW
— Cincy on the Prowl (@CincyOnTheProwl) January 18, 2023
Cincinnati Basketball: Landers Nolley II’s impressive outing not enough in loss at Houston
It was another disappointing loss for Cincinnati after leading by as much as 13 points in the first half before allowing the Cougars to close the game on a 26-9 run and survive at home.
Although it appeared the Bearcats were in position to secure a season-defining win, Houston was able to remain within reach and eventually escape with a sixth straight win in the series.
Wes Miller’s team will return home against Tulsa on Wednesday. Following the loss to Houston, Miller discussed Nolley’s performance in the press conference per Cincinnati Athletics.
"“People nationally should start paying attention to Landers Nolley. He’s one of the best players in the country, not just in his ability, but his approach and toughness. He was hurt this week and hadn’t missed a workout until the last two days. He’s really hurt and I didn’t expect him to go today. He fought through it and played like that. I think the world of him and he’s getting better and better.”"