Cincinnati Bearcats Freshman Shon Abaev is already drawing big-time comparisons

Nov 3, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bearcats guard Shon Abaev (10) attempts a 3-point shot against Western Carolina Catamounts forward Marcus Kell (23) in the first half at Fifth Third Arena. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-Imagn Images | Aaron Doster-Imagn ImagesCincinnati Bearcats freshman Shon Abaev is already off to a hot start in Cincinnati, drawing comparisons to one of the best to ever put on a Bearcats jersey, Sean Kilpatrick.

In Monday's opening night win, Abaev went for 18 points, the most by a freshman in their debut game since Kilpatrick in 2010 against Mount Saint Mary's, when he scored 21 points.

Along with his scoring success, Abaev also finished the game with 2…