Miami Hurricanes Dominate Louisiana Monroe Despite Coach's Frustration

The Miami Hurricanes defeated the University of Louisiana Monroe 104 to 79 on December 13, 2025, improving their season record to nine wins and two losses. Despite the commanding victory, Hurricanes head coach Jai Lucas expressed frustration with the team's defensive performance, stating, 'It's always good to get a win, but I'm not pleased with how we won.' Lucas criticized his team's slow rotations and inability to guard the ball, highlighting that Louisiana Monroe made 15 three-pointers, the most they had made all year.

Center Ernest Udeh, who recorded a double-double with 14 points and 15 rebounds, noted that Lucas expects more from the team and is brutally honest in his assessments. Six players scored in double figures for Miami, led by Malik Reneau with 20 points and 10 rebounds, while Tre Donaldson contributed 18 points and a game-high 11 assists.

The Hurricanes dominated in the paint, outscoring the Warhawks 62 to 22, and their 27 assists fell just two short of the program record. Freshman Shelton Henderson left the game with a foot injury, joining teammates Dante Allen and Marcus Allen on the sidelines.

Louisiana Monroe's head coach Phil Cunningham praised Miami's talent and the job Lucas is doing, stating, 'When they’re shooting like that, they're hard to beat.' The Hurricanes will next face cross-town rival FIU on December 15, 2025, at 7 p.m. at the Watsco Center, where Lucas expects a challenging matchup.