Preview: Cincinnati Bearcats at UCF Knights

OVIEDO, Fla. (Interstat) — The UCF Knights look to build on a significant road win when they host the struggling Cincinnati Bearcats in a Big 12 women’s basketball matchup Wednesday at CFE Arena.

UCF (9-7) is coming off a 58-55 victory at Arizona on Saturday, a defensive triumph that snapped a three-game conference losing streak. The Knights will rely on the hot hand of guard Khyala Ngodu, who erupted for 22 points and five assists in that win. Her production has been volatile, however, as she was held to just two points in a loss to Arizona State three days prior.

Cincinnati (6-11) seeks to end a two-game skid after falling 71-60 to Texas Tech at home Saturday. The Bearcats have lost eight of their last 10 games. Their offense runs through guard Caliyah DeVillasee, who has scored in double figures in three straight contests, including a 17-point, five-assist performance in a loss at Colorado on Jan. 3.

The Knights have shown resilience at home in conference play, notably pushing Kansas in a 83-68 loss on Jan. 4. Cincinnati’s road form has been a concern, with a 1-5 record away from home and losses in their last four true road games by an average of 18 points.

Defense will likely dictate the tempo. UCF’s win at Arizona showcased its ability to grind out low-scoring games, while Cincinnati has allowed 71 points or more in five of its last six defeats.

This is the first of two scheduled meetings between the programs this season. They will meet again in Cincinnati on Feb. 21.

Projected Starters: Cincinnati: G Caliyah DeVillasee, G Mya Perry, G Reagan Jackson, F, F. UCF: G Khyala Ngodu, G Summer Yancy, F Mahogany Chandler-Roberts, F, C.

Up Next: Cincinnati hosts West Virginia on Sunday. UCF hosts Colorado on Sunday.