Opinion: Can Miami Really Hold Their Own When ACC Play Starts?
Wanted to give my thoughts about how the Miami Hurricanes play and what they need to do heading into ACC play. Too often the Canes seem to be their own worst enemy, and sometimes Miami plays sound basketball like during their Final Four run last season.
If all you watched was the first half of Miami's game against La Salle, there wouldn't have been many complaints. At that point, Norchad Omier had no fouls or turnovers and the Hurricanes were leading by twelve behind 57.6.% shooting.
Unfortunately, Miami reverted to their form against Colorado in the second half and had to make some crucial end-of-game plays to close out the Explorers. Omier had four fouls and two turnovers in the second half alone and the Hurricanes made just one shot from behind the arc.
Hurricanes Bounce Back With Win Over La Salle 84-77
While everything can't be summed up from one game in the early season, Miami's consistency has been less than desirable through ten games. It's clear that Jordan Miller and Isaiah Wong are missed, but Miami has to move on one way or another.
Going back to Miami's first-half performance, it's clear that Miami is at its best with Nijel Pack leading this offense. Pack had one of his best playmaking games of the season with seven assists and no turnovers. With Pack handling the ball, it forces Wooga Poplar to be an off-ball threat where he impacts a basketball game the most.
I think there are times when Poplar and Omier can be taking their defender off the dribble, but Jim Larrañaga's system thrives on high-tempo and great ball movement.
Additionally, I think Miami needs to do a better job at incorporating Bensley Joseph into the offensive game plan. Joseph started the season off hot but has yet to score in double figures since the first game of the Baha Mar tournament. The more threats you have offensively out there, the easier it is for everyone else to get their own.
The bench continues to be an area of concern, as three of Miami's starters played 37 or more minutes against La Salle. Kyshawn George has been Miami's best reserve this season as he's improved as the season has gone on.
I'll continue to say it, but if they can't get this bench figured out in February they'll have a hard time surviving that stretch of the schedule.
Two games remain for Miami before they face the 9-1 Clemson Tigers in their first game of the new year. This Canes team has the potential to win the conference, but there are still plenty of strides to take to get there.
2023-24 Miami Hurricanes Basketball Schedule
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You can find Liam on Twitter @theleftyliam where he shares news on University of Miami basketball and football as well as opinions