Cincinnati freshman Jaquon Parker (King’s Fork) got his second start of the Bearcat basketball season on Wednesday against Big East foe South Florida. Parker had career-highs with 15 points, five assists and 35 minutes played as UC beat USF 78-70.

Parker started as a guard for Cincinnati and made 6-of-8 field-goal attempts. UC improved to 13-6 overall and 4-3 in the Big East.

Cincinnati head coach Mick Cronin said, “(Parker) has practiced well and he has gotten better. I think in the snippets that he has played that he has shown that he won’t make mistakes.

“Certain guys get out there and their toughness makes them better,” said Cronin. “One thing about Jaquon is that he doesn’t lack for toughness.”

Parker said, “(Assistant) Coach (Larry) Davis told me before the game just to be solid and get everyone involved.”

Parker’s averaging 11.6 minutes played, 4.4 points and 2.7 rebounds per game for the season.

Cincinnati visits Louisville (12-7, 3-3) on Sunday at 12 p.m.

Chowan’s men’s basketball team defeated visiting Fayetteville State 69-64 on Thursday evening. Senior Jaleel Nelson (Lakeland) led the Hawks with 26 points, six rebounds and three assists.

Junior Mark Brown (Nansemond River) made a pair of free throws with under a minute left to give Chowan a 65-64 lead. Brown finished with 11 points and three rebounds.

Chowan’s won eight straight games. The Hawks (11-4, 7-2 CIAA) play at Elizabeth City State Saturday at 7:30 p.m.