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Miami
Trying to predict how the Hurricanes will fare has been a difficult task in the recent past. Two years ago, they overachieved and finished 5th in the ACC and earned an NCAA bid. Last year, they fell short of high expectations, finishing 9th in conference and settling for an NIT bid. So, what is in store this year? Frank Haith has to overcome the graduation of all league guard Jack McClinton. He does, however, have talent returning and an outstanding freshman class coming in. Haith’s 6th year at Miami could be much better than many anticipate.
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The program got some good news when Dwayne Collins wisely decided to return for his senior year. Collins is a gifted post player but has been inconsistent. Haith told me Collins had a great summer and could have a huge final season. They need his production and leadership. James Dews is their best returning 3 point shooter and will need to pick up some of McClinton’s productivity. Adrian Thomas is another wing player with excellent range on his jumper. The x-factor could be DeQuan Jones. He is very explosive but struggled to find consistency in his freshman year. How he matures will be a big key for this team’s success.
This could be the best class of newcomers that Haith has had at Miami. Malcom Grant, a transfer from Villanova, will start immediately at point. Haith recently told me he is the best he has ever had at that position. He can shoot the three and is a good floor general. 6’5” Durand Scott may start alongside Grant. He is a big time offensive player and gives Miami the size it has lacked in the backcourt recently. Donnavan Kirk is 6’8” but thin at 215 pounds. He should be a reserve at either of the forward positions. Haith once again raided North Carolina and signed 6’6” Garrius Adams from Apex. He was a highly rated shooting guard who averaged 22 points per game as a senior and should contribute here quickly.
The key for this team will be replacing McClinton and finding some balance on offense. 37% of their field goal attempts where 3’s, the most in the ACC. The emergence of Collins as a consistent post scorer could alter that. Grant will have to come in and make this team his. Miami was 10th in the ACC in assists and Grant should help that number improve. A lot will be expected of the freshman class and they seem capable of delivering, especially Scott and Adams on the wing. Haith has said this is his most talented team. He also told me he doesn’t mind flying under the radar at all. This could be a replay of a couple of years ago when the Canes exceeded expectations and made it all the way to the NCAA tournament.
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