James Larranaga has done a great job with Miami Basketball, but after losing two of his top three scorers to the NBA can he keep the Hurricanes up near the top of a loaded ACC?
The Hurricanes started off red hot last year going 10-0 to begin the season and climbed as high as sixth in the AP poll. Unfortunately, after that, they stumbled to a 12-10 record the rest of the way and were the first victim of Loyola Chicago’s Cinderella run in the NCAA Tournament. Lonnie Walker and Bruce Brown then both left for the NBA draft and it has left the Hurricanes searching for answers.
James Larranaga has done a great job of turning Miami into a top 25 team, but this may be his toughest test yet. The ACC is loaded with talent and Miami could be trending in the wrong direction.
The Hurricanes return a group of five guys that have a lot of experience but after that, they are severely lacking in depth. The Hurricanes could possibly be only running a six-man rotation, so staying out of foul trouble will be key for the Hurricanes. Even with that, it could be a long year in Miami.
Here’s a full breakdown of the projected starters, key reserves and non-conference schedule, along with where they stand nationally and in the conference as we preview their season.