Watch Cincinnati @ UAB NCAA Basketball on ESPN+: Curt Bloom Calls the Action

American college basketball fans can catch the thrilling NCAA Division I matchup between Cincinnati Bearcats and UAB Blazers on Sunday, 22 February 2026, at 19:00 UK time (2:00 PM ET) exclusively on ESPN Unlimited and ESPN+. As one of the premier platforms for live college sports, ESPN+ delivers high-quality streams perfect for viewers across the US and UK, making it easy to follow every dunk, steal, and three-pointer from the comfort of home. Leading the commentary is the legendary Curt Bloom, whose passionate play-by-play has made him a staple in Birmingham sports broadcasting.

Curt Bloom, the main commentator for this clash, brings decades of expertise to the mic. A member of both the Southern League and Birmingham Barons Hall of Fame, Bloom earned his stripes calling minor league baseball across the US, from Bakersfield, California, to Prince William County, Virginia, and Huntsville, Alabama, before settling in Birmingham in 1992[1][5]. His career skyrocketed in 1994 when he broadcasted Michael Jordan's entire minor league season with the Barons, capturing the NBA icon's first at-bat and base hit—audio that's still celebrated today[4]. This iconic stint led to cameo appearances in ESPN's 30 for 30 and Netflix's The Last Dance, cementing his place in sports history[1].

Bloom's resume extends far beyond baseball. As the longest-tenured radio broadcaster in the 130-year history of the Birmingham Barons, he announced his departure from the booth after 32 years in 2023, but far from retiring, he channelled his energy into college sports[2][3]. Now the lead announcer for UAB Blazers men's and women's basketball on ESPN+, he called over 50 college baseball games for the University of Alabama and UAB in the 2025 season[1]. Previously, he handled football and basketball for Samford University over a ten-year span, showcasing his versatility across sports[1]. His passion shines through, as he often says broadcasting is driven by "one word: passion," with fans praising how he makes every game feel fun and alive[2][3].

Inducted into the Alabama Broadcasters Association Best in Broadcasting Large Market in 2018 and the University of North Carolina Greensboro Hall of Fame in 2013, Bloom's accolades reflect his dedication[1]. He even taught broadcasting as an Assistant Professor at Birmingham Southern College (2018-2024) and Miles College (2014-2015), passing on his B.A. in Broadcast Communication from UNCG (1985) to the next generation[1]. In 2022, he made his Major League Baseball debut calling a Chicago White Sox game against the Cleveland Guardians, a career highlight that proved his big-league chops[1].

For this Cincinnati @ UAB showdown, expect Bloom's signature style: meticulous preparation, vivid descriptions, and storytelling that weaves player backgrounds into the action. With UAB hosting at their Birmingham home court, Bloom's local insight into the Blazers will be invaluable, especially as both teams vie for crucial conference positioning in the NCAA Division I landscape. Whether you're a die-hard Bearcats supporter or tuning in for Blazers pride, ESPN+ ensures seamless access—stream via app, smart TV, or web for crystal-clear HD.

Don't miss out; subscribe to ESPN+ today and let Curt Bloom's voice guide you through what promises to be a high-stakes battle. For more on Bloom's storied career, visit his official site at curtbloom.com/resume[1]. This game is set to deliver edge-of-your-seat excitement, broadcast by one of the best in the business.

Article generated: 20 February 2026, 19:02 GMT