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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NCAA Tournament Norchad Omier #15 of the Miami Hurricanes (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

The battle on the boards

Rebounding is a relatively boring subject to talk about, but it could be the difference in this game. Despite Norchad Omier’s tenacity and physicality, Miami’s overall lack of frontcourt size is a concern.

The Canes have been an average rebounding team this season – better on the offensive end than the defensive. Most of that is Omier, who averages 10.1 rebounds per game.

UConn is an elite rebounding team, ranking second in the country in offensive rebounding percentage this season, per KenPom. The Huskies have a rebounding margin of +11.3 in the NCAA Tournament. In blowout wins over Arkansas and Gonzaga, they grabbed 24 offensive rebounds.

Omier will do his part, but he’ll need help from Jordan Miller and Miami’s backcourt to prevent UConn from cleaning up easy second-chance opportunities all game.

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If Miami can consistently hold UConn to one shot, they can win this game. If not, it could be a long night for the Canes.

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