We waited a long time for Lance Stephenson’s debut, and we’ll need to wait a bit longer to witness Stephenson’s first good performance. The prep standout shot just 2-for-10, grabbed four rebounds and didn’t contribute maybe tangible peripherals (steals, assists, blocks) in 22 minutes of Cincinnati’s 69-62 win over Prairie View A&M on Monday night.

Stephenson’s poor shooting helped contribute to a first-half deficit that stood at 38-30. Cincinnati had just a 37.1 percent eFG in the first half thanks primarily to 15 misses on 3-point shots in the opening 20 minutes. Mick Cronin’s team clamped down on defense in the second half, holding Prairie View to just 24 points thanks to Cincy’s superior size and talent. Yancy Gates and Steve Toyloy combined for 19 rebounds, including eight of teammates’ misses. Cincinnati has to be happy to have the victory, but it wasn’t a fortuitous start for Stephenson or for his coach, both of whom enter crucial seasons in their careers. Read More »