NCAA Tournament 2023: 5 key storylines for Miami vs UConn matchup

ALBANY, NEW YORK - MARCH 17: Head coach Jim Larranaga of the Miami Hurricanes looks on after defeating the Drake Bulldogs during the first round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at MVP Arena on March 17, 2023 in Albany, New York. Miami defeated Drake 63-56. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

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Adama Sanogo #21 of the Connecticut Huskies (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /

Norchad Omier vs. Adama Sanogo

The majority of Miami’s scoring comes from its backcourt (and Jordan Miller), but Norchad Omier is arguably the Canes’ most important player. The 6-foot-7 Nicaraguan was the two-time Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year at Arkansas State before transferring to Miami, where he anchors Jim Larrañaga’s defense.

If Miami has a weakness on paper, it’s their lack of size in the frontcourt. In reality, Omier is an elite rim protector and rebounder whose size and quickness allow him to effectively switch and trap high ball screens.

Adama Sanogo provides an intimidating physical challenge, and his low-post production in the tournament has been consistently impressive. He’s also excelled as a passer, making it difficult to simply double-team him.

In what might be the most intriguing individual matchup in the Final Four, Omier will need another stellar defensive effort with an emphasis on staying out of foul trouble.

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