In an electrifying showdown in Coral Gables, the Miami Hurricanes emerged victorious with a 63-57 win over Notre Dame, breaking a daunting 10-game losing streak. This triumph also marked an end to a challenging 20-game skid against Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) opponents, a significant achievement for the team.
The pivotal comeback for Miami (5-17, 1-10 ACC) was largely spearheaded by Matthew Cleveland, who delivered an impressive 21 points. His steady shooting provided the Hurricanes with a competitive edge. Lynn Kidd also played a crucial role, contributing 15 points while showcasing remarkable accuracy with 7-of-9 shooting.
This victory is particularly meaningful for the Hurricanes, as it marks their first conference win in nearly a year. The last time Miami tasted victory against an ACC team was on February 3, 2024, when they defeated Virginia Tech 82-74 at home.
Interim coach Bill Courtney, who assumed his role following Jim Larranaga's resignation on December 26, secured his inaugural win with the Hurricanes. Under his guidance, Miami displayed determination and resilience, striving to turn their season around.
The match saw several momentum shifts, with Miami capturing their first lead at 55-53 with just over six minutes on the clock. A contested baseline jumper from Cleveland was instrumental in this shift, setting the tone for the remainder of the game. Despite a spirited dunk from Notre Dame’s Tae Davis that tied the game at 59-all, the Hurricanes held their ground. Kidd's calm demeanor at the free-throw line allowed Miami to regain control, securing a lead they maintained until the final buzzer.
Notre Dame's performance was spirited with Markus Burton leading the team with 17 points, followed by Braeden Shrewsberry and Tae Davis with 14 and 11 points respectively. However, the Hurricanes' defense limited their opportunities in the closing stretch, with the Irish missing crucial shots and committing turnovers.
Brandon Johnson's contribution of 13 points and eight rebounds further bolstered Miami’s efforts, helping the team tie their season-low of six turnovers, an indication of their improved control and discipline over the game's tempo.
Looking ahead, Notre Dame aims to regain their footing as they prepare to face Florida State on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes will use this victory as a springboard, setting their sights on their next challenge against Louisville next Saturday.
This hard-fought victory not only boosts Miami's morale but also reinforces their potential to compete more effectively in the ACC, a promising sign for their fans and a testament to their perseverance. As they continue their season, the Hurricanes are poised to build on this success and strive for further achievements.