Season Outlook
The Cincinnati Bearcats have secured a significant addition to their roster with the commitment of Deshaun "Shaun" Vaden, a 6‑foot‑11 center who earned Ohio Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors at Mount Union.
Vaden will retain two seasons of eligibility at Cincinnati, giving the program a rare blend of size, shot‑blocking ability and defensive versatility. Last season he logged 102 blocked shots in just 15.6 minutes per game, while also contributing 5.0 points and 4.8 rebounds per outing, shooting an efficient 64.2% from the field.
Coach Jerrod Calhoun expressed enthusiasm about the new frontcourt piece, noting that Vaden’s defensive instincts and capacity for growth could reshape the Bearcats’ interior presence and provide a deeper rotation.
In a separate move, former Cincinnati center Halvine Dzellat has announced his transfer to Seattle University, where he will look to rebuild his collegiate career after a modest season that saw him average 2.1 points and 2.0 rebounds, with a high‑scoring effort of 11 points against NJIT.
The transactions underscore a dynamic period for both programs. Cincinnati’s defensive line appears poised for a rebound, while Dzellat’s departure opens opportunities for younger players in the Bearcats’ lineup. Fans can expect a more competitive interior game as the Bearcats aim to climb the conference standings.