UC Bearcats coach Wes Miller, Thiam, UCF’s Dawkins on UCF win
Cincinnati Bearcats coach Wes Miller, Moustapha Thiam, UCF’s Johnny Dawkins on Knights win
- Cincinnati Bearcats men’s basketball fans are considering a paper bag protest due to the team’s 8-8 record.
- Fifth Third Arena’s clear bag policy and rules against disruptive items prohibit bringing in paper bags.
- Former Bearcats star Nick Van Exel has publicly discouraged the protest, urging fans to support the team instead.
At 8-8, the Cincinnati Bearcats men’s basketball team sits in the cellar of the Big 12.
Their KenPom.com rating actually rose from No. 66 to No. 64 after their narrow 73-72 loss to then-No. 25 UCF, but the fan base is not pleased.
At a recent Wes Miller radio show from the Original Montgomery Inn, someone appeared with a paper bag on their head in protest. Since the UCF loss, some have proposed that fans wear such attire at their seats in Fifth Third Arena.
What is allowed in Fifth Third Arena?
The Enquirer reached out to Senior Associate Athletics Director Zach Stipe, who referred to the A-to-Z Guide and Clear Bag Policy on Fifth Third Arena’s site. Stipe said brown bags are not permitted.
Bags permitted in the arena are as follows:
“To provide a safer environment for the public and significantly expedite fan entry, Fifth Third Arena requires fans to follow its clear-bag policy. Exceptions to this policy will be made for all medically necessary items after proper inspection. Diaper Bag – must be clear and within the size limit.”
According to UC’s A-to-Z guide for Fifth Third Arena, banners or signs, unless approved by the athletics department, are not allowed.
Cincinnati Bearcats Hall of Famer Nick Van Exel says ‘No!’
In response to a potential paper parade at the game, former UC and NBA great posted the following on his X account: “Not a fan of the brown bag. I think they hear you all loud and clear, but the school I went to is not like that. We’re all upset, but hang around when it’s tuff. It’s easy to jump ship when it’s going bad. Let’s cheer louder and be more together to change the season for the better. The players will feel it. Stay together!!!”
Former Bearcats Jacob Evans III and DerMarr Johnson had similar thoughts.
Shade from Miami Redhawks basketball
With some UC fans threatening a paper bag protest, Miami University took a social swipe at the events as they try to market their turnaround program under Travis Steele.
The game is on Peacock and tips at 7 p.m. For those not attempting to cover their identity, Wednesday will be the Bearcats’ Student Appreciation Game. Students in attendance will have a chance to go home with a plethora of prizes, including AirPods, a speaker, a spikeball set, a jersey and other swag. The Wonderdog Frisbee dog show will perform at halftime.
Oddsmakers have UC as a 5.5-point favorite. ESPN’s matchup predictor has UC a 77.7% pick to win at home.
