That may have been good television, but it was terrible basketball.
Cincinnati (29-4, 16-2 American) and Connecticut (16-17, 9-9 American) were whistled for 56 fouls in 40 minutes, and the Bearcats emerged victorious thanks to making an impressive 38 of 46 (82.6%) free throws. Gary Clark led the way with 25 points and nine rebounds, and hit 15 of his 16 free throw attempts to set the pace for Cincinnati. He even lost a tooth in the process.
This game had the feel of a heavyweight match from the beginning. Connecticut is as tough of an out as there is in college basketball, and Kevin Ollie’s team, playing in front of their home crowd, weren’t going to go away quietly.