After defeating the Michigan Wolverines in an exhibition game in Ann Arbor, the Cincinnati Bearcats travelled to Little Rock, Arkansas, to take on John Calipari and the Razorbacks. A lot of fans were excited for the game, hoping the Bearcats could expand on their 100-point night against a top 15 preseason team, and Jalen Celestine is back from injury.
The Bearcats disappointed a lot of fans, losing 89-61 behind another poor defensive performance from a team that is supposed to have a top-five defense in the country, according to KenPom. Shon Abaev had a great night against Michigan and took a step back against Arkansas, scoring just 7 points on 2/11 shooting. These are exhibition games, however, so some of these performances should be taken with a grain of salt.
The Bearcats start their season on November 3rd against Western Carolina next Monday and have their first real opponent on November 11th when they host the Dayton Flyers.
Final: Cincinnati 61, Arkansas 89
— Cincinnati Men’s Hoops (@GoBearcatsMBB) October 25, 2025
Dzellat finishes with 10 and 6. Celestine scores 9 in his first action of the preseason. Miller collects 6 boards.
The season starts November 3 at Fifth Third Arena!