In a significant development for the University of Cincinnati's basketball program, head coach Wes Miller announced the addition of Jaylen Haynes, a formidable forward known as "Big Slime." The timing coincided with the football team's scrimmage, adding excitement to the sports scene at UC. Standing 6-foot-8 and weighing 260 pounds, Haynes brings an imposing presence reminiscent of an offensive lineman to the court. His transfer from George Mason University is expected to bolster the Bearcats' lineup significantly.
Jaylen Haynes, who recently committed to the Bearcats, has demonstrated impressive versatility and dominance on the hardwood. Last season, he averaged 14.1 points and 6.9 rebounds while playing for George Mason in the Atlantic 10 Conference. Notably, he achieved five double-doubles, including a standout performance against UNC-Asheville, where he scored 25 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Another remarkable game came against Fordham, where he once again reached the 25-point mark. Haynes displayed exceptional shooting efficiency, connecting on 55.5% of his field goals.
Haynes’s journey to Cincinnati includes previous stops at East Tennessee State and Virginia Tech. During the 2023-24 season, he averaged 14.6 points per game and 6.4 rebounds for East Tennessee State, showcasing his consistent scoring ability. One of his most memorable performances was a game-high 27-point effort. As a freshman, he gained valuable experience by playing nine games at Virginia Tech before transferring. His visit to Cincinnati earlier this year, on April 11-12, likely solidified his decision to join the Bearcats.
Notably, Haynes faced tough competition last December when he went up against then-No. 5 Duke. In that contest, he scored 18 points and pulled down seven rebounds, proving his mettle against elite opponents. This resilience and skill set will undoubtedly benefit the Bearcats as they aim for greater success in upcoming seasons.
The arrival of Jaylen Haynes marks a pivotal moment for Cincinnati Bearcats basketball. With his size, scoring prowess, and rebounding abilities, he is poised to make an immediate impact. Fans can look forward to witnessing how Coach Miller integrates this powerful player into the team’s dynamic, potentially elevating their performance on both ends of the floor.