Big 12 Tournament Upset Alert: Cincinnati Faces Off Against Oklahoma State in Thrilling Matchup

The Big 12 Tournament is always a time of great excitement and unpredictability in college basketball, with its 14 teams competing in a single-elimination format that can lead to instant classics and upsets. As one of the favorites to win it all, Cincinnati is facing off against a tough opponent in Oklahoma State, a team that has been quietly impressive all season long. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the key matchup, picks, and odds for this thrilling matchup, and examine what makes it an upset alert.

Cincinnati and Oklahoma State may not be the most well-known programs in college basketball, but both teams have been playing some of the best ball in the nation this season. Cincinnati, led by coach John Brannen, has been dominant on both ends of the floor, with a strong defense that has allowed just 63 points per game. Oklahoma State, meanwhile, has been led by a strong cast of seniors, including point guard Jordan Sneed, who has been averaging over 18 points per game.

Despite both teams' impressive resumes, this matchup is shaping up to be one of the biggest upsets of the tournament so far. Cincinnati is currently listed as a 2.5-point favorite, but Oklahoma State has been known to pull off major upsets in the past. In fact, the Cowboys have won six straight games, including a thrilling 81-78 victory over TCU in the regular season finale.

Key Matchup: Inside and Outside Scoring

One of the key factors that will determine the outcome of this game is the inside-outside scoring threat that both teams pose. Cincinnati's centerpiece, senior forward Jalenimir Micic, has been a force to be reckoned with, averaging over 20 points and 7 rebounds per game. Micic's ability to score from both inside and outside the arc makes him a nightmare to defend, and will likely be a key factor in Cincinnati's ability to stay in front of Oklahoma State's talented scorers.

On the other hand, Oklahoma State has a talented trio of seniors who are all capable of scoring from anywhere on the court. Jordan Sneed, as mentioned earlier, has been averaging over 18 points per game, while forward Yale Thompson has been adding 12 points per game on top of his impressive defensive numbers. Thompson's ability to shoot from beyond the arc will likely make him a difficult matchup for Cincinnati's defense, which has struggled to defend perimeter players this season.

Cincinnati's Defense

Cincinnati's defense has been one of the biggest surprises of the season, as they have been able to hold opponents to just 63 points per game. The team's strong defense has been led by senior guard Jalen Tate, who has been averaging over 2 steals per game and has been named to the All-Big East defensive team.

However, Cincinnati's defense has also been vulnerable to inside scoring, particularly in the paint. The team has allowed over 35 points per game on the glass, which could be a problem if Oklahoma State is able to establish a strong presence in the paint.

Oklahoma State's Offense

Oklahoma State's offense has been a balanced unit this season, with four players averaging in double figures. The team's leading scorer, Jordan Sneed, has been a point guard sensation, averaging over 18 points and 4 assists per game.

However, Oklahoma State's offense has also been vulnerable to turnovers, particularly on the road. The team has committed over 20 turnovers per game on the road, which could be a problem if Cincinnati is able to put pressure on the ball.

The X-Factor: Team Defense

Both teams have been incredibly stout on defense this season, but the team that can come out on top will be the one that can win the battle of wills. Cincinnati's defense has been able to contain opposing teams' stars, but Oklahoma State's defense has been able to shut down even the most explosive offenses.

Ultimately, the team that can adjust to the other team's defense will be the one that comes out on top. If Cincinnati can contain Oklahoma State's talented scorers, they may be able to pull off the upset. On the other hand, if Oklahoma State can find a way to contain Cincinnati's strong defense, they may be able to take control of the game.

Picks and Odds

Here are the current odds for the game, as well as our picks:

• Current Odds: Cincinnati -2.5
• Our Pick: Cincinnati
• Spread: Cincinnati -2.5
• Total: 130.5
• Confidence Level: High

We're confident that Cincinnati's strong defense will be able to contain Oklahoma State's talented scorers, and that the Bearcats will come out on top.

Oklahoma State's Upset Chances

Oklahoma State has a history of pulling off major upsets, and they may be due for another one. The team has won six straight games, including a thrilling 81-78 victory over TCU in the regular season finale.

While Oklahoma State's chances of pulling off an upset are still slim, they should be taken seriously. The team has a talented cast of seniors, and they have the potential to cause some trouble for Cincinnati's defense.

Cincinnati's Weaknesses

Cincinnati has a few weaknesses that could potentially be exploited by Oklahoma State. The team's defense has struggled to contain inside scoring, particularly in the paint, which could be a problem if Oklahoma State is able to establish a strong presence in the paint.

Additionally, Cincinnati's offense has struggled to score in the second half of games, particularly against top-level opponents. If Oklahoma State can find a way to contain Cincinnati's offense, they may be able to take control of the game