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Carroll’s 30 Points Power Xavier Past Cincinnati in Skyline Chili Crosstown Shootout, 79–74
By
Musketeer Madness,
12/5/2025
In a rivalry where legends are made and bragging rights are priceless, Xavier found its star once again. Behind a career night from Tre Carroll, who poured in 30 points and grabbed 7 rebounds, Xavier surged past the University of Cincinnati, 79–74, on Friday night in front of a record crowd of 10,880 roaring fans at Cintas Center.
Carroll took command early in the second half, scoring bucket after bucket during a decisive stretch where Xavier built its largest lead at 13 points with 12:21 remaining. His mid-range game was automatic and his footwork in the paint repeatedly carved up the Bearcats’ defense. UC simply had no answer when Xavier’s offense flowed through No. 12.
After a back-and-forth first half that ended deadlocked at 37–37, Xavier came out with the composure of a team that understood the moment. Carroll scored eight of the Musketeers’ first 13 points of the second half, aided by smart facilitating from All Wright, who finished with four assists, and tough interior play from Jovan Milicevic, who added nine points and three rebounds of his own.
UC refused to fade quietly. Day Day Thomas and Shon Abaev each connected on big shots, and the Bearcats crashed the offensive glass, scoring 18 second-chance points to stay within striking distance. A 3-pointer by Jalen Celestine with 2:39 remaining briefly gave UC a 68–67 lead, their first in more than 15 minutes, sending tension rattling through the arena.
But Xavier responded like a team defending home court and city pride. Filip Borovicanin answered Celestine’s three with a left-wing triple of his own with 2:25 on the clock, pushing Xavier back in front for good. Moments later, a slick steal and finish by Carroll restored momentum, and his jumper with 57 seconds left stretched the lead to four, sealing the Musketeers’ grip on the Shootout.
Down the stretch, Xavier was calm at the line and disciplined on defense — Wright’s four clutch free throws in the final 41 seconds delivered the knockout combination. While UC’s Miller and Thomas pushed late, the Musketeers closed the game with confidence and toughness, earning the win that the city will talk about until the next chapter arrives.
For Xavier, the victory wasn’t just a box score achievement. It was a statement — in a rivalry built on generations of animosity and bragging rights, the Skyline Chili Crosstown Shootout belongs to the Musketeers for another year, and 79–74 will echo across the Queen City until these programs meet again.
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