Categories: College University Athletics

University of Cincinnati Welcomes New Basketball Talent

An electrifying moment during a college basketball game at the University of Cincinnati.

News Summary

Moustapha Thiam, the former UCF center, has transferred to the University of Cincinnati after an impactful freshman season. Averaging 10.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game, Thiam’s departure from UCF marks a significant moment in college basketball. His addition is expected to bolster Cincinnati’s roster, which faced challenges in the last season. As he embarks on this new chapter, college basketball fans are eager to see his contributions and the influence of new coaching strategies.

Cincinnati Welcomes UCF’s Moustapha Thiam: A Game-Changer for College Basketball

Exciting news is buzzing in Cincinnati as former UCF center _Moustapha Thiam_ makes a significant shift in his basketball career by transferring to the University of Cincinnati. This move comes just after his freshman season as a Knight, where he showcased some impressive stats. Thiam opened up about his transfer intentions recently, which has sent ripples through the college basketball community.

A New Chapter Begins

Hailing from UCF, Thiam has left a mark! In the 2024-25 season, he averaged _10.4 points_, _6.4 rebounds_, and _2.6 blocks_ per game, playing a total of 34 games. His talent was evident, as he not only became a key player but also tallied an astonishing _88 blocks_, placing him second in the program’s history for blocks—only trailing behind the legendary Tacko Fall. During his season, Thiam certainly didn’t shy away from stepping up to big moments, scoring a game-high of _18 points_ against Utah which left fans cheering!

The Transfer Portal Trend

Thiam is just one of many athletes on the move this season, becoming the _11th player_ to enter the transfer portal after it opened on March 24. The wave of transfers has sent UCF into a period of restructuring, aiming to build a competitive roster for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Notably, the Knights have already brought in _seven transfers_, including new faces like guards Riley Kugel and Themus Fulks as well as forwards Jordan Burks and Jamichael Stillwell. Thiam’s departure, though bittersweet for UCF, opens avenues for fresh talent and strategies on the court.

A Major Deal in the Works

With his new journey at Cincinnati, Thiam is expected to land a lucrative _NIL deal_ rumored to be in the range of _$2 million_. This reflects not only his prowess on the court but also the growing landscape of college athletics where athletes are reaping the benefits of their hard work and dedication.

Impact on Cincinnati’s Program

As Cincinnati looks to bounce back from a _19-16 season_, including a _7-13 record_ in Big Ten matchups, the addition of Thiam comes as a significant boost. His formidable _7-foot-2_, 235-pound frame is a considerable asset in college basketball, providing the Bearcats with a much-needed inside presence. Moreover, the program is also set to bring on board _former UCF assistant coach Mamadou N’Diaye_, further enhancing the coaching staff and strategy.

Thankful Goodbyes

Thiam expressed heartfelt gratitude towards UCF on social media, thanking his coaching staff, teammates, and support personnel for their help during his time at the university. It’s a tough goodbye for any player, but circumstances call for new beginnings, and fans of the Bearcats couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome this rising star into their fold.

Looking Ahead

As Cincinnati embarks on a new season, all eyes will be on Thiam and his impact on the game. With significant roster changes ahead, there’s a sense of excitement mixed with anticipation among Cincinnati fans. How this talented center will mesh with his new teammates and what heights he will help lift the program to remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: Cincinnati basketball is ready for action!