The Cincinnati Bearcats have notched their first two-game Big 12 winning streak in the regular season, defeating Arizona State 67-60 in a gritty performance. While the game wasn't always pretty, it showcased the team's resilience and ability to grind out a victory when it matters most.

Several players stepped up to contribute to the win. Dillon Mitchell led the charge with 14 points, while Simas Lukosius added 10. Jizzle James broke out of his recent slump, putting up 11 points, and Dan Skillings chipped in with 12. This balanced scoring attack is exactly what the Bearcats need to compete in the tough Big 12 conference.

One of the key factors in the victory was Cincinnati's dominance in transition. The Bearcats outscored Arizona State 25-2 in fast break points, highlighting their ability to capitalize on turnovers and push the pace. This aggressive style of play could be a game-changer for Cincinnati as they look to make a push in the conference standings.

Defensively, the Bearcats continue to impress. Currently ranked as the 8th best defense in the country, Cincinnati's hard-nosed approach is becoming their identity. This defensive prowess will be crucial as they face tougher opponents in the coming weeks.

Looking ahead, the Bearcats face a significant test against Texas Tech. A win against the Red Raiders could potentially vault Cincinnati back into the NCAA Tournament conversation. With their current record of 12-5 (2-4 in conference play), the Bearcats are on the bubble, listed as one of the "First Four Out" according to recent bracketology predictions.

The team's recent success has breathed new life into their season. If they can maintain this momentum and continue to improve offensively while relying on their stout defense, the Bearcats could make a serious run in the latter half of the season.

For more insights and a deeper dive into the Cincinnati Bearcats' recent performances and future outlook, tune into the Chatterbox Bearcats podcast for this and much more.

Other Topics in Today's Chatterbox Bearcats Podcast:

• Analysis of individual player performances against Arizona State

• Discussion on the team's offensive struggles and potential solutions

• Breakdown of upcoming Big 12 matchups and their implications for Cincinnati's tournament hopes

Subscribe to Chatterbox Bearcats on YouTube and follow us on Instagram!