Crosstown Clash: A Look at Cincinnati's Fiercest Basketball Rivalry

With the Cincinnati Crosstown Rivalry near, both the UC Bearcats and Xavier Musketeers face high stakes entering their showdown on December 14th with postseason hopes on the line. 

The Cincinnati Crosstown Rivalry between the University of Cincinnati and Xavier University is one of the most anticipated events of the basketball season. With a history that dates back to 1928, it is more than just about bragging rights. This matchup is often a deciding factor into both teams' postseason dreams. This season, both teams enter the game with high NCAA Men’s Tournament aspirations and this game could be vital to securing a spot in March Madness. 

The Crosstown Rivalry dates back to 1928, when the Bearcats and Musketeers played their first basketball game against each other. This rivalry grew quickly due to the close proximity of the two schools in Cincinnati, about three miles apart, which created a great sense of competitiveness. Over time, it developed into one of the most highly anticipated matchups in college basketball, with both teams fighting not only for the win but for local bragging rights.

Over the years, memorable games have shaped and added to the rivalry. A key moment in the rivalry occurred in 2012, when Xavier and UC faced off in a heated game that led to both teams getting into a physical altercation. That moment highlighted just how intense this rivalry is.

For the city of Cincinnati, the Crosstown Rivalry is more than just a basketball game. It is an event that adds to the cultural fabric of the city, dividing friends, families, and fans alike. The rivalry stirs passionate debates long before and after the game, becoming a hot topic across the city. Former Xavier basketball player and current radio analyst Byron Larkin describes the personal impact of the rivalry: “One of my best friends loves UC, and I love Xavier. For one game, we’re arch enemies, but after the game, we’re gonna shake hands and be boys again.” This spirit of competition and  respect is the heart of the rivalry. It brings out a level of passion and energy that is rarely seen during the regular season, highlighting the intensity that defines Cincinnati's sports culture. Ultimately, the Crosstown Rivalry has become a symbol of the city’s love for basketball and its competitive spirit.

The 2024 Crosstown Rivalry is setting up to be an important matchup for both the Bearcats and the Musketeers. Xavier has been solid to start the season and sitting at fifth in the Big East with a record of 7-2. A win over UC would not only give them bragging rights but also help earn a spot in the NCAA Tournament. As Byron Larkin puts it, “If you can win this game, that's gonna go as a Quad 1 victory and every team wants that in their resume to get to the tournament”. A victory in this rivalry game could provide a significant boost to Xavier's tournament hopes, potentially solidifying their position in the competitive Big East standings.

For UC, this game is just as important.Coming into the season UC was ranked 20 in the AP Poll and have since moved up to 14 with a record of 6-1. Bearcats are looking to keep their strong hopes alive and have a strong performance against their rivals. Xavier may not be as highly ranked as UC but the potential for both teams is clear, a win for either team would make a statement about their postseason hopes. 

Despite multiple attempts to get a response from UC representatives about interview requests, the Bearcats chose not to comment for this story. This silence may reflect a choice to keep the focus on their game preparation rather than engaging in public commentary. In a rivalry as intense as this one, staying quiet can be a strategic move, helping to avoid fueling the fire and allowing the team to concentrate on what matters most,  the game itself. For UC, this approach could serve to boost confidence and maintain a calm and focused mindset heading into the showdown.

While coaches and players may come and go, the Crosstown Rivalry is here to stay. Byron Larkin, who played in the rivalry four times during his time at Xavier, remembers his first experience vividly. “What amazed me the most was how big the rivalry was. The environment is electric and there’s so much energy in the building. As both UC and Xavier have moved into bigger conferences in recent years, the rivalry remains deeply embedded in the heart of Cincinnati’s basketball culture. No matter where the game is held, the intensity and passion will continue to define it. This rivalry is about more than just wins and losses. It’s about tradition, pride, and energy that sweeps through the city every season. As time goes on, it will continue to captivate fans, shaping the sports culture in Cincinnati and ensuring its place as a key part of the city’s basketball legacy.

When you think about the Crosstown Rivalry, it’s clear that it’s about so much more than just basketball. It’s about community, pride, and the fierce competition that has defined Cincinnati for nearly a century. Every season, this rivalry brings people together, sparking excitement and passion that are felt throughout the city. Whether it’s a win or a loss, the Crosstown Rivalry will continue to shape Cincinnati’s basketball culture, remaining a key part of the city’s identity for many years to come.