Miami Hurricanes coach Jai Lucas dismisses "trap game" talk, emphasizing the Boston College Eagles' tough defense and their need for a strong performance before facing UNC.
The Miami Hurricanes men's basketball squad has an exciting challenge coming up against the 14th-ranked North Carolina Tar Heels. A standout victory would provide a tremendous boost to the season's resume for an NCAA tournament push. However, first comes a business trip to the Northeast, against the Boston College Eagles.
Coach Jai Lucas isn't worried about any "trap game" situations with facing a low-profile opponent before a historic one.
"We're not in any position to be worried about a 'trap game,'" he said. "Every game for us is important, every game of the season is important. I haven't thought about North Carolina yet. I'm just focused on Boston College."
"I anticipate us firing on all cylinders."
The Hurricanes are currently 17-5, 6-3 in ACC play. The team struggled in the last five games, losing three matchups against the 22nd-ranked Clemson Tigers, Florida State Seminoles, and California Golden Bears. Regardless of three-point or free-throw shooting woes, a couple of losses came down to the final possession.
Lucas isn't underestimating the Eagles, describing them as "one of the best defensive teams in the league."
"They're big and physical," he added. "They do a great job of protecting the paint, very disciplined, and don't foul a lot. It's one of those games where you have to work it until it opens up."
The Eagles currently sit with a 9-13 overall record, 2-7 in ACC play.
The Hurricanes are a defense-first team, especially with senior forward Malik Reneau and senior center Ernest Udeh Jr. in the frontcourt. However, in the two losses against the Seminoles and Golden Bears, fouling was a big issue. Both opponents combined for 74.5 percent free-throw shooting; meanwhile, the Hurricanes were at 70.8 percent. In one-possession games, the margin of error is very thin.
Junior guard Tru Washington missed Saturday's game against the Golden Bears due to personal reasons. Lucas provided a minor update that the 21-year-old has yet to return and there's no estimated timetable. Washington is a primary starter, averaging 11.9 points, four rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.9 steals.
As the Hurricanes depart from South Florida, the Arizona native won't join the trip. According to the ACC student-athlete availability report, Washington is ruled out for the Eagles matchup.
Freshman guard Dante Allen will likely take his place in the starting backcourt, alongside senior guard Tre Donaldson. However, the Hurricanes' bench hasn't been productive for most of the season. The lack of depth will be another challenge to overcome against the Eagles.
Lucas is leading the program to new heights in his first year as the head coach. A win against the Eagles, before the Tar Heels, would be a good step back in the right direction.
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