FSU basketball hosts Miami

When these teams met three weeks ago in Coral Gables, Florida State fell behind early and despite a furious 2nd half comeback were not able to pull out a road victory. Miami’s insane 13-14 shooting to begin the game, combined with FSU’s 21% 3-pt shooting were the difference.

Florida State did manage to completely dominate the boards on both ends in that game, and will have to do the same today.

Miami (15-4, 4-3) has their most talented roster in program history. They go with four wing players to spread the floor and look for opportunities to drive. FSU’s defense was disruptive last time, and were able to generate 11 steals.

The Hurricanes are a half game up on FSU in the standings, but have played an easier schedule. Their conference sos is 11th, while FSU is 7th. Miami and FSU have each won their past two games, with the Hurricanes winning at NC State and vs Louisville in OT.

Miami’s offense in ACC play has not been good (12th in conference), largely due to poor 32% 3-pt shooting. On defense, they’ve been solid (6th), and pick off the 2nd most steals in conference.

They have three players who are scoring in double figures, and all three were 5* recruits. Dewan Huell mans the middle and scores 13.8 per game. Bruce Brown scores 11.3 per game and leads the team in rebounding. And freshman Lonnie Walker scores 10.2.

The game tips at 4 PM from the Tuck and will be broadcast on the ACC Network. FSU is a 4.5 point favorite.