Akai Fleming, a 6‑foot‑4 shooting guard who originally played for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, has officially joined the Cincinnati Bearcats ahead of the upcoming season. The move comes after he was rated the nation’s No. 101 prospect in the 2025 recruiting class, a designation that highlights his blend of size, athleticism and skill.
During his freshman year at Georgia Tech he posted averages of 10.4 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game, shooting 37.3 % from the field and 32.9 % from three‑point range. His best performances included two 19‑point outings in losses to Cal and Stanford, showcasing a knack for scoring in crunch time.
Coach’s Praise
Coach Jerrod Calhoun highlighted Fleming’s scoring instincts and defensive versatility, noting that the guard’s ability to create his own shot and pressure opponents on the perimeter should translate well to the Bearcats’ system.
The Cincinnati coaching staff also points to advanced metrics that favor Fleming, who posted a 5.9 Game Score per John Hollinger’s evaluation, indicating solid all‑around contributions despite his youth. While his shooting percentages suggest room for improvement, his athleticism and defensive instincts are viewed as immediate assets.
Cincinnati’s roster already features a cluster of capable scorers, a factor that could relieve some of the offensive burden from Fleming and allow him to develop at his own pace. The coaching staff believes that the competitive environment will accelerate his growth and help him reach his projected potential.
If the early reports hold, Fleming could become a key piece of the Bearcats’ quest to climb the conference rankings, adding depth and a dynamic perimeter threat that the team has been seeking.