The Hurricanes and Panthers do battle at Watsco Center
Miami opens ACC play Tuesday night at Watsco Center, hosting Pitt at 7 p.m. ET. The Hurricanes carry an 11-2 record into the conference opener, while the Panthers enter at 7-6.
Miami has protected home court through the first half of the year. The Hurricanes have a 9-0 record in Coral Gables, and they’ve assembled a top-end offense with steady defense, scoring 89.5 points per game while allowing 67.7. Head coach Jai Lucas preaches tempo, paint touches and second-chance points, and this matchup offers a clean runway for that identity to continue in league play.
What Miami needs to win
Rebound advantage. Miami ranks among the ACC’s best on the offensive glass, as the Hurricanes grab 11.2 offensive rebounds per game, with Malik Reneau leading the way at 2.8 on his own. Reneau also drives the scoring engine, averaging 20.4 points and 6.7 rebounds. If Miami turns missed shots into extra possessions, Pitt’s depth starts to strain.
Miami’s staff will want early shot-clock attacks that end at the rim or in rhythm catch-and-shoot looks. The Hurricanes average 7.5 made 3-pointers per game, and Pitt allows 7.0. An average perimeter night combined with Miami’s interior efficiency could put Pitt into catch-up mode early.
What Pitt brings to Coral Gables
Pitt enters off a confidence jolt after Roman Siulepa erupted for 28 points in an 80-46 win over Penn State. The Panthers haven’t traveled well yet, though, with an 0-2 road record. Jeff Capel’s group leans on forward Cameron Corhen, who averages 13.2 points and 8.6 rebounds and gives the Panthers a steady paint option when possessions slow down.
Keep an eye on Pitt’s perimeter spacing, too. Barry Dunning Jr. has knocked down 2.4 threes per game over the last 10 games, and Damarco Minor supplies the playmaking at 3.5 assists per game. If Pitt hits early 3s, Miami’s help rotations will face pressure, and Corhen’s touches inside get easier.
This game marks the 50th meeting between the programs, with both sides starting conference play. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. ET, and ACC Network carries the broadcast. Oddsmakers have Miami favored at -10.5 points.
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