If you would've said that the Miami Hurricanes Men's Basketball team would be nationally ranked this season, most people would call you delusional. Yet today they aren't only ranked but stand at #2 in the nation. Unexpected, surprising and ridiculous are just some of the words that come to mind when digesting that fact.
Head Coach Jim Larranaga has met and exceeded all expectations after replacing Frank Haith (who is under NCAA investigation). Larranaga's second year resume has been nothing short of impressive.
Beat Duke? Check.
Beat Michigan State? Check.
Beat North Carolina? Check that one off twice.
The way that Coach Larranaga has this team playing is not only entertaining but a testament to the maturity and discipline he has instilled in his players. The intense defense, dynamic offense and unselfish collective play has led to a perfect record in the ACC and sold out games at The BankUnited Center. It even has some Canes fans ready to bet on March Madness. Many forget about Larranaga's magical run with George Mason back in 2006, leading that team to an unprecedented Final Four appearance. It looks like he's attempting a similar push with The U.
The Canes own "Big 3" include PG Shane Larkin, G Durand Scott and F Kenny Kadji - all of which are averaging about 13 points per game and shooting over 47% from the field. Collectively, Miami is holding opponents under 59 points per game and outscoring them by over 10 points a night. If you scroll through the stat lines, Miami is essentially outplaying opponents across the board.
It's safe to say that with all the hype Miami built up over the course of this season, they've continued to live up to it and backed it up with more quality wins. At this pace, they are primed to not only make the NCAA tournament but earn a high seed as well.
If you're a basketball fan in Miami, it's truly an exciting time with the Canes and Miami Heat playing top notch ball right now. You really cant complain.
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