Bearcats Invited Analyst to Practice After Rankings Snub
Coach Jerrod Calhoun hosted Jon Rothstein at a Cincinnati practice following a controversial preseason exclusion.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Basketball
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Cincinnati head coach Jerrod Calhoun invited college basketball analyst Jon Rothstein to witness a team practice on September 25, 2026. This gesture followed Rothstein’s decision to exclude the Bearcats from his preseason rankings in July 2026.
Why it matters
The invitation serves as a public response to the analyst’s lack of confidence in the program as they navigate a competitive Big 12 conference. The team’s efforts to engage with media critics highlight their focus on changing national narratives ahead of the new season.
The Bearcats are currently positioned 12th out of 16 teams in the Big 12 preseason projections. The program aims to return to the NCAA tournament, having not appeared in a game there since a 2019 tournament loss where they surrendered a 13-point lead.
The players
Jerrod Calhoun
He serves as the head coach of the University of Cincinnati men's basketball team.
Jon Rothstein
He is a prominent national college basketball analyst and reporter.
MJ Collins
He is a current player for the Cincinnati Bearcats men's basketball team.
Javontae Campbell
He is a Cincinnati Bearcats player currently dealing with a foot injury.
The details
During the practice visit, player MJ Collins personally delivered a cooler of Graeter’s ice cream to Rothstein. While the team looks toward an October 7, 2026, exhibition game against Ohio State, they are managing the recovery of Javontae Campbell, who sustained a foot injury prior to September 23.
Timeline
March 22, 2019: The Bearcats played their last NCAA tournament game.
July 2026: Jon Rothstein excluded the Bearcats from his preseason rankings.
September 23, 2026: Javontae Campbell was spotted at dinner on crutches.
September 25, 2026: Jon Rothstein visited the Cincinnati practice.
October 7, 2026: Cincinnati plays an exhibition game against Ohio State.
Season Trajectory
This visit serves as a pivotal narrative moment for the Bearcats as they attempt to move past the shadow of their 2019 NCAA tournament exit. Gaining respect in the competitive 16-team Big 12 will be essential for the program to secure an at-large bid by the end of the season.
The recovery timeline for Javontae Campbell is a critical factor for the rotation, as he is expected to be sidelined until at least the start of 2027. Fans should monitor his status closely, as his return will significantly impact the team's depth heading into Big 12 play.
The takeaway
The team’s proactive engagement with national media demonstrates a concerted effort to shift public perception during the preseason. Fans should look toward the upcoming exhibition against Ohio State as the first true indicator of the squad’s potential this year.
What happens next
The Cincinnati Bearcats are scheduled to play an exhibition game against Ohio State on October 7, 2026. Additionally, Jon Rothstein has indicated he will provide ice cream to fans at Fountain Square should the team qualify for the 2027 NCAA tournament.
Further reading
For more updates on the program's progress, visit the Basketball section.
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