The frustration among Cincinnati Bearcats basketball fans has reached a boiling point as the team continues to struggle in Big 12 play. Reaching this fever pitch, fans are now reportedly calling for the program to shut down, as extreme as that may sound, and spend their money elsewhere.
Bearcats’ Struggles Reach a Breaking Point
A recent tweet encapsulated the growing dissatisfaction among the fanbase.
#Cincinnati should just shut down its basketball program. pic.twitter.com/XhnDBRriOc
— Message Board Geniuses (@BoardGeniuses) January 29, 2025
“UC basketball should be shut down,” the post from Bearcat Journal said. “What is the point? You can barely win 2-3 games in conference play.”
“You have made 1 Sweet 16 in 23 years and counting… And you beat Xavier about 3 out of every 10 years and that is your super bowl. Put the Hoops money into other athletics that are more competitive.”
The Bearcats have weathered a tough stretch in conference play. On Jan. 29, 2025, Cincinnati lost to UTE 69-66, marking its third consecutive defeat. Simas Lukosius missed a three-point shot that would have given Cincinnati the win.
Earlier, on Jan. 18, 2025, Cincinnati snapped a setback by beating Arizona State 67-60. It was the Bearcats’ first Big 12 home win of the season. Dillon Mitchell led the team with 14 points and three steals—a glimpse of what the team can achieve when things go smoothly.
Struggles Against Xavier and Tournament Woes
Criticism also centers on the Bearcats’ long-standing difficulties against rival Xavier. For two decades, Cincinnati has won about 30 percent of its matchups with Xavier, a statistic that has fueled fan disappointment.
However, a bright spot appeared this season when the Bearcats ended a five-game losing streak in the rivalry with a 68-65 win over Xavier on Dec. 14, 2024. Lukosius played a pivotal role, scoring 14 points—11 in the second half—to secure the victory.
Despite occasional high points, the Bearcats have advanced to only one Sweet 16 in the past 23 years, a sore point for fans accustomed to a tradition of victory.
So Where Does Cincinnati Go From Here?
Critics argue that investing in sports other than basketball may be a consideration, highlighting growing impatience among fans. The transition to the Big 12 has been difficult, and the Bearcats must turn things around before further alienating their supporters.
More: Top 10 College Basketball Rivalries
If Cincinnati ever regains its status as one of the nation’s premier basketball programs, changes are needed—whether a coaching change, improved recruiting or another strategic move. One thing is clear: Bearcats fans want to see the program built, and the remainder of the 2025 season will be crucial in determining the direction of Cincinnati’s program.
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