The Miami RedHawks Make History
The Miami RedHawks, ranked No. 20, made history by finishing the regular season with an unblemished 31-0 record, a feat that their athletic director believes solidifies their position for an NCAA Tournament berth. The team accomplished this remarkable milestone with a thrilling overtime victory against their rival, Ohio, on March 6.
Thrilling Overtime Victory
Despite facing significant challenges, including an intense game marked by five technical fouls and 14 three-pointers made by the Bobcats, the RedHawks persevered. In a nail-biting final stretch, Miami trailed by a point with less than 30 seconds left in overtime. Star player Peter Suder was fouled, allowing him to head to the free-throw line with just 12 seconds remaining. Ohio had the opportunity to regain the lead in the closing seconds, but could not sink a crucial shot. The RedHawks sealed their win with a last free throw and did not allow the Bobcats to convert a last-second three-pointer, ultimately finishing with a 110-108 score.
Historic Achievements
This victory not only marked Miami’s historic unbeaten run but also ended a 14-game losing streak against Ohio, their first win at the Bobcats’ home since 2011. The RedHawks now join a select group of only five teams in the 21st century to achieve a perfect regular season, with the last instance occurring when Gonzaga completed the feat in the 2020-21 season.
NCAA Tournament Discussions
However, the team’s NCAA Tournament fate remains a hot topic of discussion. Their perfect record is compelling; no team with more than 28 wins has ever been excluded from the tournament since its expansion in 1985, and those with fewer than four losses have always been included. Athletic Director David Sayler expressed confidence that the RedHawks’ undefeated status should ensure their inclusion in March Madness. Speaking to USA TODAY Sports, he asserted,
“An undefeated season, it has to matter, right?”
Scrutiny and Challenges
Nevertheless, the RedHawks’ qualifications have come under scrutiny. Critics point out that Miami’s resume lacks strength, noting they have no Quad 1 wins and only one Quad 2 victory, with most of their wins falling into the Quad 4 category. Moreover, their non-conference strength of schedule ranks 285th, highlighting the challenges they face in convincing the selection committee of their worthiness, especially considering recent close victories.
Notably, former Auburn coach Bruce Pearl suggested that Miami’s only hope of making the tournament lies in securing an automatic bid through the MAC championship, a sentiment that has sparked frustration among supporters of the team. Sayler voiced his disappointment at the skepticism surrounding the RedHawks’ accomplishments, emphasizing that they are on the verge of achieving something historic.
Looking Ahead
As Miami looks ahead to the MAC tournament, beginning with quarterfinals on March 12, they will enter as the number one seed. The competition promises to be fierce, particularly from the defending champions, Akron. Despite this, Sayler remains optimistic, insisting,
“We’re not a fluky story.”
With eyes set on the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight, Coach Travis Steele echoes the team’s determination to prove their capabilities on the grandest stage of college basketball, eager to uphold their legacy of excellence.
