After another slow start, the South Florida Bulls did what they do best against the top teams in the Big East — hang around. Even though USF shot just 30.4% (7-for-23) from the field in the first half, the Bulls made up ground at the free throw line and only trail the Cincinnati Bearcats 32-24.
The biggest issue for USF, though, may be the status of Anthony Crater. He appeared to injure his arm going for a loose ball late in the first half, and was in enough pain on the Bulls’ last possession of the first half that he couldn’t run a play and was hunched over near the midcourt line, wincing and holding his arm. Crater has been inconsistent at point guard this season (to say the least), but it’s hard to see how USF could manage without him if he’s unable to continue.
Yancy Gates continues to lead all scorers with 11 points for Cincinnati. Shaun Noriega and Hugh Robertson each have six points for USF.