Miami Hurricanes Seek to Extend Rivalry Dominance Over FIU

The University of Miami men's basketball team is set to face cross-town rival Florida International University on Tuesday night at the Watsco Center. The Hurricanes, under first-year coach Jai Lucas, aim to extend their dominance, having won 11 of the 12 previous matchups against the Panthers.

Miami enters the game with a record of 9-2, coming off a decisive 104-79 victory over the University of Louisiana Monroe, while FIU stands at 5-3 after their 88-65 win against Jacksonville. Coach Lucas emphasized the challenge posed by FIU, stating, 'I expect a war.

They’re really good. Coach [Jeremy] Ballard has done a good job with his team construction.' Key players for FIU include 6-10 freshman center Eric Dibami, who scored 14 points against Jacksonville, and Cory Stephenson, who leads Conference USA in offensive rebounds and ranks sixth in points per game.

The last meeting between the two teams ended with Miami winning 86-80 during the 2023-24 season. Miami's roster is new, and players like center Ernest Udeh, who transferred from TCU, recognize the significance of the rivalry, saying, 'I feel like anybody who steps in the gym is dangerous.' The Hurricanes boast the fourth-highest scoring offense in the ACC, averaging 87.3 points per game and leading the conference in field-goal percentage at 50.8%.

Indiana transfer Malik Reneau leads the team with 20.9 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, while Michigan transfer Tre Donaldson averages 15.2 points and 6.3 assists. Freshman Shelton Henderson's status for the game is uncertain due to an ankle injury.

Tipoff is scheduled for 7 PM, and the game will be broadcast on ACC Network Extra. According to the Miami Herald, this rivalry game highlights the intense competition between local teams.