Cincinnati Basketball: 5 questions facing the Bearcats for 2018-19

How big of a leap can Trevor Moore make?

Cumberland will be the clear star player on the wing this season but Trevor Moore is another player to keep an eye on. Now a rising sophomore, Moore could be poised for a breakout season in a key role for the Bearcats. While it is unlikely that he is a starter in his second season, Moore can be one of the most valuable reserves in the country if he hits his potential this year. His freshman season (3.4 points, 1.7 rebounds) certainly does not look spectacular on paper but he had a very solid year.

Quite simply, it is difficult for a freshman to carve out a role on an extremely talented and veteran-laden roster. Yet, that is just what Moore did last season, averaging 12.0 minutes per game on a 31-team that was led almost exclusively by upperclassmen. In terms of what he will bring to the table this year, the expectation is that he will be a dynamite 3-and-D wing. Even though Moore only shot 33.3% from distance last season, he is already a tenacious defender and a willing shooter with the tendency to catch fire.

For reference, 78.1% of Moore’s shot attempts last season came from beyond the arc. If he is able to shoot 37-40% from beyond the arc while also continuing his excellent defensive play, Moore will prove to be an excellent reserve option that could push for starter-like minutes. Even though highly-touted JUCO transfer Rashawn Fredericks will likely hold down the starting spot next to Cumberland on the wing, Moore should be the primary back-up.

With both Broome and Moore coming off of the bench as reserves, Cincinnati has a much deeper rotation than most would think. Of course, part of that does depend on who emerges as legitimate options in the frontcourt.