ATLANTA — Dillon Mitchell delivered a standout performance with 14 points and 11 rebounds, marking his first double-double of the season, as No. 18 Cincinnati triumphed over Georgia Tech with a score of 81-58 on Saturday.
Jizzle James and Cole Hickman also contributed significantly, each adding 14 points for the Bearcats (5-0), who successfully tackled their initial major challenge of the season against an ACC rival in Georgia Tech.
On the other side, Naithan George was a bright spot for Georgia Tech (2-3), sinking three shots from beyond the arc and finishing with 13 points. Duncan Powell chipped in 10 points, but their leading scorer, Baye Ndogo, managed only five points.
In terms of performance, Cincinnati showcased exceptional shooting prowess, particularly from long distance. The Bearcats hit 41% of their three-point attempts (9 for 22) and an impressive 52% from the field overall (32 for 62).
Conversely, Georgia Tech struggled offensively despite having four players averaging double-digit scoring this season. Only George and Powell surpassed the 10-point threshold, as the Yellow Jackets struggled with their shooting, converting just 36% of their attempts (21 for 59) and shooting 55% (11 for 20) from the free-throw line.
A pivotal moment in the game occurred after Cincinnati allowed the first basket, quickly regrouping to force seven turnovers from Georgia Tech within the first six minutes, which helped them embark on a commanding 14-2 run.
A key statistical takeaway from the game was Cincinnati’s defensive effort, which effectively stifled a Georgia Tech offense that previously averaged 82 points per game. The Bearcats particularly dominated in the paint, outscoring the Yellow Jackets 44-28.
Looking ahead, Cincinnati is set to host Alabama State on Wednesday, while Georgia Tech will continue its seven-game homestand, facing Charleston Southern also on Wednesday.