CATEGORY 6

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Tag Archives: ACC

Category 6 Food for Thought (and Video) for the Long Offseasons.

99 days until the Miami Hurricanes open up at Boston College, (Wednesday September 1, 3:30 PM EST on ABC/ESPN2)  and we know you can’t wait!!  The big questions remain who will be the starting QB and how well will he play, and which newcomers will have an immediate impact?? Can the pinpoint accuracy of Ryan Williams supplant the NFL ready arm of Stephen Morris?? Is there any chance Duke Johnson or Tracy Howard red shirt?? In just over 3 months we will all find out.

Stephen Morris can really launch it!

My early predictions: Morris earns the starting job, and Johnson and Howard crack the special teams’ lineups immediately. With Morris limiting the INTs and the young studs making the defense better, the ‘Canes will win 8-9 games. Anthony Chickillo at DE, Denzel Perryman at LB, and Brandon McGee and Ray Ray Amstrong in the secondary will give Miami stars at all 3 levels of the defense.

Here’s a little 2012 Pump-Up video courtesy of the YouTube Legend “Canefreak 2001″:

 

Next season could be a banner year for UM Basketball. Nearly everyone is returning to a squad that overcame numerous injuries, suspensions, and personal tragedy to finish one game short of an NCAA birth. In addition to the young players’ improvement (Shane Larkin & Rion Brown in particular) the focus for the ‘Canes this offseason has to be staying healthy (Reggie Johnson) and getting stronger (Kenny Kadji).

Very Early Prediction: Miami finishes top 3 in the ACC and makes a big run in the NCAA Tournament. Larkin will be an all defensive player, Kadji and Johnson will be the best frontcourt duo in the league, and Durand Scott will emerge as a clutch player by season’s end.

Here’s a look at some of the work former Miami Strength and Conditioning Coach Todor Pandov implemented with the ‘Canes hoops team.

(Editor’s note: Jim Krumpos has replaced Pandov, it was earlier reported erroneously that Pandov was still with UM)

 

Congratulations to the baseball team on upsetting # 6 UNC 5-3 on Thursday in the ACC Tournament. The #21 ‘Canes (35-20) appear primed to make some noise in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.

(Editor’s note: If there are any ‘Canes fans interested in covering baseball please contact us at category6um@gmail.com)

With that said, we hope everyone enjoys the long weekend.

 

James, FSU defeat ‘Canes in physical bloodbath

Miami headed into Tallahassee riding a 5-game winning streak but fell 64-59 to the Seminoles. The game was marked by rough rival-style play reminiscent of a time when Miami was in the Big East and Leonard Hamilton was their skipper. Hamilton brought his physical brand of basketball to the ACC and Miami was ready to go toe-to-toe.

The ‘Canes threw everything they had at the Seminoles but Bernard “Social Security” James (18pts, 6reb, 2stl, 4blk) was too much for the ‘Canes to handle. James, an FSU elder-statesman at 27 years-old, had one of his best games of the season and was a nightmare for the ‘Canes all afternoon. All kidding aside, James served the U.S. Air Force admirably before winding up at Florida State – and Category 6 salutes his service. Cool story about him here. Well, maybe not all kidding aside . . .

The game was a physical bloodbath for the most part as the referees let both teams play. There were a few early possessions where Reggie Johnson (4pts, 6reb, 1ast, 1stl) was creamed trying to establish post position and it seemed to take him out of his game. Here’s some footage of the back-and-forth action from Tallahassee . . .

FSU’s blistering physical defense was also a culprit on Miami’s inability to score in the post. Kenny Kadji (14pts, 6reb, 1ast, 1blk) led the ‘Canes in scoring, but most of his shots (4 out of 7) were 3-pointers. Kadji can definitely nail the 3 and ‘Canes fans worldwide hold up their arms in anticipation of a make when he shoots ‘em, but the ‘Canes inability to get it going inside was evident in the team’s collective woes from beyond the arc (5 out of 23 – 21.7%). Sure, there were some open looks that were missed, but for the most part Miami had to jack up 3′s as the shot clock faded to zero. FSU’s tough defense deserves a tip of the cap.

Durand Scott (12pts, 5reb, 3ast, 2stl) surged late in the game. Scott’s two steals resulted in coast-to-coast dunks, the latter kept the door open for a possible ‘Canes comeback. Malcolm Grant (9pts, 3ast, 1stl) found some range inside the arc. Shane Larkin (5pts, 1ast, 1stl) was cold from the field, but he was pesky on defense and helped force a number of turnovers. Rion Brown (5pts, 3reb) and Trey McKinney Jones (3pts, 2reb, 1ast) played tough defense, but quality scoring opportunities were few and far between for all ‘Canes players.

DeQuan Jones (7pts, 5reb, 1stl) played another physical game. When Larranaga went small late in the game, Jones played center for the ‘Canes and did an admirable job. Jones also flirted with technical fouls on almost every play he was involved in by staring down FSU players after dunks and put-backs.

The 3-point shooting was reminiscent of the home loss to N.C. State, but the ‘Canes played with effort and were in the game until the end against a very good (and #15th ranked) team on the road. Miami will get a chance for revenge @ the BUC on Sunday, Feb. 25 @ 6PM.

Next Game: The ‘Canes (15-8, 6-4) have a huge home match-up against UNC on Wednesday night @ 8PM. Come out and support the team!

Miami (FL) Hurricanes
STARTERS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OFF REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
Kenny Kadji, F-C 5-8 1-4 3-3 2 6 1 0 1 3 4 14
Durand Scott, G 5-12 1-3 1-2 1 5 3 2 0 2 1 12
Malcolm Grant, G 3-9 1-6 2-2 0 0 3 1 0 2 1 9
Shane Larkin, G 1-9 0-3 3-4 4 5 1 1 0 2 1 5
Reggie Johnson, C 2-4 0-1 0-0 1 6 1 1 0 3 3 4
BENCH FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OFF REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
DeQuan Jones, G-F 3-6 0-0 1-2 3 5 0 1 0 2 2 7
Rion Brown, G 2-6 1-3 0-0 1 3 0 0 0 1 2 5
Trey McKinney Jones, G 1-3 1-3 0-0 0 2 1 0 0 0 2 3
TOTALS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OFF REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
22-57 5-23 10-13 12 32 10 6 1 15 15 59
38.6% 21.7% 76.9%
Florida State Seminoles
STARTERS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OFF REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
Bernard James, F 8-13 0-0 2-4 3 6 0 2 4 7 2 18
Michael Snaer, G 4-11 2-6 2-2 0 5 2 0 0 4 3 12
Luke Loucks, G 3-7 1-2 0-3 2 6 6 2 0 0 1 7
Xavier Gibson, F-C 2-5 0-1 0-0 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 4
Deividas Dulkys, G 1-3 0-2 0-0 0 1 1 2 0 1 2 2
BENCH FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OFF REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
Ian Miller, G 2-4 2-3 5-6 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 11
Okaro White, F 2-6 0-2 2-2 3 5 0 0 1 0 3 6
Jon Kreft, F-C 1-1 0-0 2-2 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 4
Jeff Peterson, G 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0
TOTALS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OFF REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
23-50 5-16 13-19 9 27 9 7 6 16 13 64
46.0% 31.3% 68.4%

Category 6 Preview: Virginia Tech (13-10) at Miami (14-7)

(Editor’s note: Special thanks to Chicagomaroon of www.gobblercountry.com/ for working on this preview with us and providing advanced scouting on Virginia Tech)

Coming off of one of the most exhilarating victories in school history at Duke, The Miami Hurricanes return to action Thursday (9pm EST TBA/ESPN3) against struggling Virginia Tech at the BUC. Reggie Johnson out muscled the Blue Devils all day long on his way to a career high 27 points and 12 boards on Sunday. Fellow big man Kenny Kadji chipped in with 15 and 8, as Duke had no answers for the ‘Canes inside players. In the Hokies, UM will face a perimeter oriented team that is better than its 2-6 conference mark. Virginia Tech has lost 5 of its 6 ACC battles by 4 points or less. Much like last year’s UM team they have struggled to close out close games, but have been ultra competitive. If Miami hopes to avoid a letdown they will need to keep guards Erick Green (15.7 ppg) and Dorenzo Hudson (11.4 ppg) under control.

Reggie Johnson played with passion on Sunday against Duke.

 

Projected Starting Lineups:

Miami

C Reggie Johnson                   6’10 300 JR

F Kenny Kadji                          6’11 260 SO

G Shane Larkin                       5’11 160 FR

G Malcolm Grant                     6’1 188  SR

G Durand Scott                       6’4 198  JR

 

Virginia Tech

F Victor Davila                       6’8 245   SR

F Dorian Finney-Smith           6’8 192  FR

F Jarell Eddie                         6’7 209   SO

G Marquis Rankin                   6’1 165   FR

G Erick Green                         6’4 185   JR

 

Keys to the Game: Do not bask in the glory of conquering Duke. Nothing will get you beaten quicker in this league then not showing up to play. Virginia Tech may be struggling but if Hudson and Green go off, it can be a long night for Miami. Additionally Finney-Smith is a big time talent who has had a rough freshman year. It would not be inconceivable for him to have a big game. Ever since the loss to NC State, Jim Larranaga has had the full attention of the team, so we do not expect a letdown, but anything is possible on any given night in the ACC.

Keep getting the ball inside. The Hokies would like nothing more then to watch UM launch a series of ill-advised threes. And while the ‘Canes are capable of shooting the ball well, the most efficient way for them to win is via Kadji and Johnson. Like most of the conference, the Hokies do not have the size or skill upfront to match-up with the ‘Canes big men.

Trying to guard Big Reg can be a hazardous chore.

 

Best Match-up: Victor Davila VS Reggie Johnson. Big Reg has a definite size advantage here, but the 6’8 245 Davila too likes to bang inside. With Va Tech loaded with small forward types, it would appear as if he will draw the unenviable assignment of checking big # 42. We wish him luck.

Va Tech's Victor Davila finishes with power.

 

Prediction: When the 1980 “Miracle on Ice” US Olympic Hockey team defeated the Russians they had one game left for the gold. In that game they fell behind early 2-0 to Finland before fiery Coach Herb Brooks fired them up by saying “ if you [mess] up here, it will be with you for the rest of your life.”

Well for the sake of Miami Men’s basketball Virginia Tech is Finland. Like the Americans in Lake Placid, Miami will follow-up their biggest win ever with another win. The prize may not be a gold medal, but it will take them one step closer to the NCAA Tournament.  The ‘Canes roll 74-68.

 

Here is our full Q&A with Chicagomaroon of Gobbler Country:

C6: Virginia Tech is similar to the Miami team of last year in that they’ve lost a lot of close games. What are the reasons that VT hasn’t been able to close out some of those games? Do you think VT is improving?

GC: Looking back at the 2010-11 Miami team, I realized there were a LOT of similarities. In fact at this point of the season their records are almost identical. Both teams were shown some love in the pre-season (I know Miami was picked 8th, but analysts from around the country mentioned them as a sleeper team), especially considering the ‘Canes finished 12th in 2009-10 and the Hokies lost their top-3 players from 2010-11. I equate that to getting love a year too early. The ‘Canes played their way into that recognition with their performance at the 2010 ACC Tournament and the Hokies got it because of their 2011 recruiting class. Now look at the ‘Canes THIS year. That’s where the Hokies want to be next year.

However, back to this year: There are several reasons they are losing the close games. They don’t take care of the ball throughout the game. They don’t box out on the defensive end. They are too reliant on the 3-point shot (often bad ones). They don’t have any flow on offense and they seem to be running isolation instead of sets. These are all things that can be attributed to why Tech has struggled to win close games. But the thing I think is reason numero uno is the holes they put themselves into early in games. We’ve only held leads at half in three games in 2012. We have started the game off slow in almost every game in recent memory except against Clemson. For instance we started 0-17 against BYU at home (not kidding). When you have that big of a hole to climb out of it’s hard to win against anyone. While I think the Hokies are improving, it’s hard to tell. Every time you think they turn the corner they revert to their old habits and do something that calls that into doubt. So I really don’t have a definite answer on that one yet. Get back to me in a few games.

C6:We know that Dorenzo Hudson and Erick Green can score in bunches, what other players should ‘Canes fans worry about and who has been disappointing this year?

GC: Two players the ‘Canes should be worried about are Jarell Eddie and Victor Davila. Eddie is among the leaders in the ACC in 3-point percentage. He can be invisible at times, but when he is getting shots he can get all kinds of en fuego. That said, his shot selection is an issue and he can also be the guy who goes 0-5 from deep (I think he had that line against Duke). As for Davila, I’m going to go ahead and tell you he’s the answer to both parts of this question. He has been a bit of a disappointment this year because as our most senior post player, we thought he would be a HUGE impact player on this team. However, he has once again been just a role player. His average isn’t really up and his rebounding is down despite being the only true post player on the floor when he’s out there. BUT, to his defense, he NEVER gets fed in the post. He’s only a back-to-the-basket type of player. He has no mid-range game. So if you don’t give him touches, he’s not going to get any points. The games in which he’s done well (BC, Maryland, Duke) he’s gotten touches. But in the games this year where he does not have 5 shot attempts, he hasn’t scored in double figures. He’s incredibly efficient down low with his hook shot, so if he’s on Tech should feed him.

C6: You mentioned that VT is weak inside. With Miami’s strength being inside play in mammoth-center Reggie Johnson and do-it-all PF Kenny Kadji, how do you see VT’s front court matching-up?

GC: This may come back to bite me but I think Tech may have the most success defending Kadji of any of the ACC schools. Tech employs two tweeners (oh who am I kidding? They’re 3′s not 4′s) at the PF position in Dorian Finney-Smith and Jarell Eddie. While they will bring Cadarian Raines and Barksdale off the bench, Raines is almost exclusively a center and Barksdale doesn’t average much more than 10 mins a game. So unless Kadji decides to go to the low block all game then he won’t be taking advantage of his biggest asset against Tech: his size. If I were Larranaga I would demand both players to post on every possession. If Kadji goes to the perimeter, he may find getting good shots a bit more difficult. As for Johnson, he’s going to get his against the Hokies and I’m really worried. I love his game.

C6:What do you think Miami has to do to make the NCAA tournament? Also, what are your expectations going forward for the Hokies? Many fans, including ‘Canes fans think that VT got jobbed by the NCAA selection committee over the last 3-4 years. One year when VT was 11-5 in the ACC and didn’t make it was particularly horrific. As a VT fan, how do you deal with such disappointment based on factors outside of actual basketball? Do you think Miami is headed for a similar Titanic-like disaster come Selection Sunday?

GC: I think the ‘Canes are looking good right now, but as you mentioned cracking the Selection Committee’s formula for the last few years has been difficult. I DO think the ‘Canes need 10 wins in conference. I could see them getting in with 9 if one of those wins was over UNC, but that would also probably require getting to the ACC semi’s. The RPI is good, but a lot of things can happen still. If the ‘Canes win 11 they should be feeling pretty good, but as you mentioned, Tech was 23-7 (10-6) in 2009-10 entering the ACC tournament and got left at the altar, so that tells you how they feel about the ACC. As for the continual letdowns of the NCAA Selection Committee I try not to worry about it too much. I actually laughed with my friends a year ago as we watched the show because we knew it was going to happen. What else can you do? We were a sure-fire tournament team in 2007-08 and 2009-10 and a fringe team in 08-09 and last year. I can accept that we weren’t tournament worthy a year ago, but I can’t stomach an argument for UAB or VCU’s inclusion a year ago (even with VCU’s run, the selection process is supposed to be what qualifies you to be there, not what you CAN do if you’re admitted and everyone doubts you) OVER the Hokies. As long as the majority of people know what the truth is and the media clamors for Selection Committee reform and rips them for not including teams that deserve to go I can’t ask for much more. In one way, experiencing those letdowns on multiple occasions makes it a little easier to cope with, but that pill is bitter no matter how many times you have to swallow it. I’m hoping you guys never have to go through that.

Prediction: 75-66 Miami

Thanks again to Chicagomaroon with Gobbler Country,  Please check out our answers to his questions here:

http://www.gobblercountry.com/2012/2/6/2775811/virginia-tech-hokies-miami-hurricanes-basketball#storyjump

Go ‘Canes!

Category 6 Preview: ACC Basketball Clemson (9-8) at Miami (9-6)

(Editor’s Note: Special thanks to  F1NS of www.shakinthesouthland.com/  for assisting on this preview and providing advanced scouting on Clemson)

The University of Miami’s roller coaster season continues tonight at the BUC against Clemson (7pm EST RSN/ESPN3). Miami dropped its first two ACC basketball games to ranked opponents Virginia and UNC on the road. Clemson meanwhile looked sharp in handling FSU at home, but since has dropped two in a row to Boston College and Duke. This is a game both teams need desperately if they have ambitions to contend in the conference.

The Tigers rely on the inside-out combo of Devin Booker and Andre Young to put points on the board. For UM Kenny Kadji has been red-hot of late, averaging 20.0 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in his past three games. He is shooting 61.1 % from the field in that span. Malcolm Grant on the other hand has been ice-cold, averaging just 7.0 points per game and 27.6 % from the floor over his last three.

Miami Center Reggie Johnson looks to score.

 

Projected Starting Lineups:

Miami

C Reggie Johnson                   6’10 300 JR

F Kenny Kadji                         6’11 260 SO

G Trey McKinney-Jones        6’5   216 JR

G Malcolm Grant                    6’1 188  SR

G Durand Scott                       6’4 198  JR

 

Clemson

C Devin Booker                    6’8 245  JR

F Milton Jennings                6’9 225  JR

G Tanner Smith                   6’5 210  SR

G Andre Young                    5’9 170  SR

G TJ Sapp                             6’2 180 FR

 

Keys to the Game: Keep Clemson from getting out on the break. Booker and Young form a formidable duo, and can score at times in the halfcourt. But Clemson is clearly at its best when they get out and run and Jennings converts easy lay-ups off of turnovers. Malcolm Grant, Durand Scott, and Shane Larkin need to keep the turnovers at a minimum and force the Tigers to make contested shots. Clemson makes just 43% of its shots from the floor, and that percentage can drop even lower if they are forced to play half court offense.

Take the ball to the hoop. In the ‘Canes losses, they seem to take far too many contested jumpers. While Miami needs to keep Johnson and Kadji involved and work inside-out, their guards also need to slash at every opportunity and covert or get to the line.

Tanner Smith and Clemson hope to dunk the 'Canes

 

Best Match-up: Kenny Kadji vs Devin Booker. Kadji has become a versatile and explosive match-up nightmare for opposing forwards. Booker may be slightly undersized but he’s talented and has an array of moves to make him tough to defend. With Clemson lacking a consistent perimeter game look for Booker to get the ball often. Miami would be smart to make him expend energy on defense whether he is guarding Kadji or the even bigger Reggie Johnson.

 

Prediction: Miami needs this game bad. An 0-3 start in conference play might bury any hopes of an NCAA Tournament appearance. Expect Coach Larranaga to get the very best effort possible out of the ‘Canes. Clemson has been a very unpredictable team and there’s no telling how effective they will be, but expect a good effort. Miami will control the tempo with Kadji and Johnson, and Rion Brown and Shane Larkin will spark the bench. Jennings and Tanner Smith will make enough shots to keep the game from turning into a blowout, but Miami will roll 76-68.

In the end we see Kenny Kadji and Miami coming out victorious

 

Here is our full Q&A with F1NS and www.shakingthesouthland.com.  You can find our answers on their site as well.

C6:So far Clemson has been unpredictable. They looked great against FSU and lost to BC. They also hung in with Duke. Which team should Miami expect to play on Wednesday night?

AF: Clemson has struggled away from Littlejohn all season long. We looked bad in the Christmas tournament in Hawaii, and looked even worse in a game at BC. One of the reasons we were able to stay with Duke for so long was the energy that the home crowd brought to the team. This team can play at a high level if the home crowd really gets behind them, but bringing that energy on the road is something that this team has yet to do. We did pick up a couple of wins in true road games, but one of those came against the Citadel, and the other came against Iowa in a game that saw Andre Young shoot Iowa out of the court. Tiger fans could hope that the valiant effort against Duke will inspire this team to play harder in its remaining games, but the more likely scenario is that this team will come out flat and play uninspired ball for much of this game.

C6:  Who are Clemson’s best players? Best defenders? Which player might have a break-out game?

AF: The Tigers are led by senior guards Tanner Smith and Andre Young. Tanner doesn’t have as much talent as most backcourt players in the ACC, but no one in the country plays harder. The kid plays with heart. But he also has a knack for making some pretty awful passes that can lead to some embarrassing turnovers. Andre is the team’s best outside shooter, but his short size (listed at 5-9) limits what he can do on the inside. C Devin Booker, younger brother of the Washington Wizards’ Trevor Booker, is by far the most talented player on the team, but he is also by far the laziest. He averages about 10 points and 7 rebounds a game, but has the size and talent to be doing much better than that. Fellow frontcourt player Milton Jennings has lacked mental toughness and confidence for the vast majority of his two-and-a-half years here, but he had a pretty good game against Duke, so he could be primed for a breakout game. Also look out for freshman TJ Sapp, the only guy outside of Andre that we can count on for outside shooting.

C6: Is this expected to be a rebuilding year for Clemson? What are your expectations for the Tigers this season? What type of coach is Brad Brownell? What style of basketball does Clemson play?

AF: We lost our two best players from a year ago in Jerai Grant and Demontez Stitt, and we are still struggling to recover from the abrupt departure of Oliver Purnell, so yeah, this year was expected to be a rebuilding year. But people weren’t expecting home losses to College of Charleston, Coastal Carolina, or a bad South Carolina team. The realistic preseason expectations called for the NIT, but as of now, we aren’t expecting even an NIT bid. Our hopes for this team at this point is just to play hard and improve. Brownell is a much different coach than Purnell. He replaced the full-court press with a half-court defense, mostly man. He runs a classic motion offense with a lot of screening.

C6:What is your prediction for the game? We say Miami 76 Clemson 68.

AF: I think that the Tigers will once against struggle on the road. We will keep it close, but will lose a close one. We just don’t have a go-to guy that we can really rely on in clutch situations. We’ve also struggled mightily at the free throw line the last two games, which could really hurt us again in this one. Miami 65, Clemson 63.

 

Thanks again to F1NS from www.shakingthesouthland.com for participating in this Q&A and preview.

State of the ‘Canes, Miami set for ACC Basketball

Miami has finished its out of conference schedule at 9-4 and the season so far has been nothing short of intriguing. Today we take a moment to analyze the first half of the year as well as look into what appears to be a very bright future.

The big question is, How far can Coach Larranaga take the 'Canes?

 

Steadiest Performer: Trey McKinney-Jones. TMJ may not lead the ‘Canes in scoring every night, but he has been their most consistent performer. He makes open shots, handles the ball, rebounds and defends well above average. And no one looks smoother executing a jumper off one dribble. Here’s a little of what TMJ can do:

(special thanks to Ed Schmitt, TMJ’s step dad for the video)

 

 

MVP:Reggie Johnson. The entire feel of the team changed when Big Reg

Reggie Johnson could be Miami's most important player.

returned to the lineup. His inside presence has changed everything. Is it any coincidence that UM’s perimeter players (Durand Scott and Rion Brown especially) have improved dramatically since Johnson returned? A close second would have to go to fellow big man Kenny Kadji who is rapidly improving. K2′s last outing against UNC-Greensboro (30 points, 12 rebounds) was dominant.

 

 

 

WINGSPAN: John Salmons would be very proud of UM’s current group of wing players. McKinney-Jones is both explosive and versatile. Rion Brown maybe their best shooter outside of Malcolm Grant. DeQuan Jones is an NBA slam dunk contestant in waiting, and is big enough to play some at the four spot. Garrius Adams has missed some time with injury but could be the best passer of the bunch. Miami’s group of small forwards started the season slow, but right now it looks like the ‘Canes have an embarrassment of riches at the three. TMJ, DQJ, Brown, and Adams are all outstanding options for Coach Larranaga going forward. Getting them all enough PT and touches may be the biggest challenge of all.

 

A Tale of two teams: In UM’s first 9 games (minus Reggie Johnson/DeQuan Jones) they averaged 67 points a game. In their last 4 they

Kenny Kadji just keeps getting better.

averaging a touch over 88 points a game, including 2 in which Malcolm Grant did not play. Their shooting has been blistering (117-210 55% as a team) since Johnson returned. Clearly the inside presence of Big Reggie along with the dramatic improvement of Kadji has made Miami into a completely different team. The bad news? In the same stretch they gave up 89 to UNC-Greensboro and 90 to FAU. The defense needs to pick up for the ‘Canes to thrive in the ACC.

 

 

Slam Dunk Opportunities: Saturday January 7, at Virginia. Tuesday January 10 at UNC. Sunday February 5 at Duke. Wednesday February 15 UNC. The NCAA Tournament Committee has not historically been kind to slow starts due to injuries or suspensions. So Miami needs a “signature” win. When the Tar Heels visit the Bank United Center 2/15, UM will have its best chance to duplicate what they did in 2007 when a win over Duke at home likely vaulted them to their last NCAA Tournament appearance. Hopefully the BUC will be rocking giving the ‘Canes a true home court edge. Miami played Carolina tough twice last year, so a win at home against UNC isn’t too unlikely.

Beating Coach K and Duke on the road is a major challenge.

 

 

Key Statistical leaders:

Malcolm Grant 14.5 pts, 36.7% 3pts.

Durand Scott can really fill up a stats sheet

Durand Scott  13.3 pts, 4.5 rebs, 3.5 assts.

Reggie Johnson 10.8 pts 6.5 rebs 2.2 blks 2.2 assts

Kenny Kadji   10.6 pts 5.6 rebs 1.8 blks

Shane Larkin 8.8 pts 2.7 rebs 2.4 assts 1.8 stls

Trey McKinney-Jones 8.5 pts 4.5 rebs 2.0 assts

Dequan Jones 7.0 pts 5.3 rebs

Rion Brown 6.4 pts 40.4% 3 pts

Garrius Adams 5.7 pts 3.3 rebs

Erik Swoope 3.9 pts 2.7 rebs

 

 

 

Prediction: Miami has everything it needs to kick some serious butt in conference play. Any coach in the Conference would love to have the guard play of Malcolm Grant, Shane Larkin, and Durand Scott. Reggie Johnson is a force. His return has made all the difference this year. And Kenny Kadji gives Johnson the protection inside he’s never had. 10-6 (3rd place) in the ACC and an at large bid in the NCAAs is my conservative estimate, knowing the some teams that are struggling now may improve by season’s end. Additionally, this would give UM a first round bye in the ACC Basketball tournament and allow Josh and I an extra day of drinking in Atlanta (like we need it).  Then on to the NCAA Tourney, where with Coach Larranaga at the helm, a deep run is very possible.

Miami needs fans to fill the BUC more often.

‘Canes defeat the Spartans 99-89; Leonidas falls

In the movie 300, the Spartans were a ferocious and fearless people famed for their abilities in combat. The UNCG Spartans’ latest mission: lay siege to the BUC (Bank United Castle). The UNCG fought valiantly, but the siege failed and Leonidis was ultimately defeated.

Before the game Coach Larranaga told his team to “Run! Run! Run!” and the ‘Canes obliged, almost hitting the century mark in  points as they raced frantically up and down the court.

 

K2 (35) proved to be a mountain not even the Spartans could scale . . .

The game itself was a tale of two halves. With Reggie fastened to the bench for  most of the 1st half due to foul trouble, it was K2 time. Kenny Kadji (30pts, 12reb, 2blk) played big . . . like a mountain. Kadji used a dazzling assortment of post-up moves, drives, dunks and short jumpers to carry the ‘Canes on his way to his best game as a college player. Even with Kadji’s heroics, the ‘Canes could only manage a tie at the half (49-49) as Spartan guard Trevis Simpson (36pts, 2reb, 1ast, 1stl) also had the game of his life.

 

Shane Larkin (0) went to work from beyond the arc when the 'Canes needed a spark.

The offensive explosion continued in the 2nd frame as Simpson (D’OH) kept filling it up with bombs beyond the arc and an assortment of spectacular dunks. The 7-0 UNCG run to start the 2nd half seemed to galvanize Shane “The Blur” Larkin (18pts, 6reb, 3ast, 4stl) who calmly stepped up and nailed three 3-pointers in a row, and was fouled on his 4th try. Larkin wasn’t done. When the Spartan defense saw him thinking about a 3, they rushed out and Larkin darted to the hoop for an easy 2.

 

Durand Scott (17pts, 7reb, 3ast, 3stl) was consistent, confident and effective the entire game, but it was the defense of Rion Brown (6pts, 2reb, 1ast, 1stl) who ultimately held Simpson’s point total at 36 with 9 minutes to play. At this point it seemed that Simpson was running out of the magical pixie dust that had kept him in the zone the first 31 minutes of the contest. Ironically, Simpson’s last dunk dislodged a bolt in the Spartan’s basket. After a brief delay so the staff at the BUC could make some repairs, Brown clamped down on Simpson allowing the ‘Canes to start to build a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

 

Trey McKinney-Jones (11pts, 2reb, 1ast, 1stl) had yet another solid game and showed his quickness and accuracy on his patented two-dribble pull-up a few steps inside the arc. The game also saw a nice return to action for Malcolm Grant (8pts, 1reb, 2ast, 1stl).

 

Player of the Game: Kenny Kadji. Kadji was a beast. He drove aggressively to the hoop, blocked shots, and cleaned up the boards. With Reggie having a slow night, Kadji more than picked up the slack. Going into ACC play, it’s good to see Kadji really coming into his own. Trevis Simpson played out of his mind and deserves an honorable mention here.

 

Offensive Player of the Game: Kenny Kadji.

 

Defensive Player of the Game: This one is split between Larkin and Brown. Larkin was a consistent pest stealing the ball, forcing turnovers, and making life miserable for Spartan ball-handlers. Brown stopped Simpson in his tracks over the last 9 minutes, forcing him into difficult and contested shots. Brown looks like he is becoming a go-to defensive stopper for the ‘Canes.

 

The Good: Scoring 99pts is a really, really, good thing.

 

The Bad: 18 UM turnovers.

 

The Ugly: Reggie Johnson’s first half technical foul sent him to the bench with a lot of time left in the half.

 

Next Game: The ‘Canes start ACC play on Saturday @ 23rd ranked Virginia. We’ll have our game chat open for anyone that wants to stop by and celebrate/commiserate during the game! Also look for our re-preview of the ACC and how Miami stacks up against the competition.

UNC Greensboro Spartans
STARTERS MIN FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
Aloysius Henry, F 0 3-7 0-0 2-2 3 5 0 0 0 3 5 8
Trevis Simpson, G-F 0 12-20 7-11 5-5 1 2 1 1 0 4 5 36
Aaron Brackett, F 0 1-2 0-0 1-2 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 3
Nick Paulos, G-F 0 2-5 1-3 2-2 0 4 0 2 0 1 1 7
Drew Parker, G 0 2-8 1-3 0-0 2 6 10 1 0 2 1 5
BENCH MIN FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
Taylor Hoffer, F 0 1-3 0-0 0-0 2 3 1 0 0 0 3 2
Kyle Randall, G 0 5-7 2-3 0-0 0 2 1 0 0 1 4 12
David Williams, G 0 5-7 0-0 1-3 1 2 1 5 0 1 2 11
Korey Van Dussen, G 0 0-3 0-0 1-2 0 1 3 2 0 3 2 1
Derrell Armstrong, G 0 1-4 0-1 2-2 1 2 4 2 0 5 2 4
TOTALS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
32-66 11-21 14-18 10 28 21 13 0 20 28 89
48.5% 52.4% 77.8%
Miami (FL) Hurricanes
STARTERS MIN FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
Malcolm Grant, G 0 3-9 1-6 1-2 0 1 2 1 0 0 3 8
Erik Swoope, F 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0
Kenny Kadji, F-C 0 10-15 0-2 10-13 5 12 0 0 2 3 3 30
Trey McKinney Jones, G 0 4-7 1-4 2-2 1 2 2 1 0 1 3 11
DeQuan Jones, G-F 0 1-2 0-1 1-2 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 3
BENCH MIN FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
Durand Scott, G 0 5-10 0-0 7-8 3 7 3 3 0 5 0 17
Rion Brown, G 0 2-5 2-3 0-0 1 2 1 1 0 2 1 6
Shane Larkin, G 0 4-6 3-4 7-7 0 6 3 4 0 3 1 18
Reggie Johnson, C 0 2-5 0-0 2-4 1 2 0 1 2 1 4 6
Garrius Adams, G 0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 0
TOTALS FGM-A 3PM-A FTM-A OREB REB AST STL BLK TO PF PTS
31-59 7-20 30-38 12 35 12 11 4 18 17 99
52.5% 35.0% 78.9%