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UM begins a crucial three game stretch today as they take on the high scoring Titans, led by Ray McCallum and Doug Anderson, and also featuring Juwan Howard Jr.
The 'Canes looked much sharper their last time out, pummeling Jacksonville 73-57 behind a career high 27 points from Shane Larkin. Miami was also without starting C Reggie Johnson (injury) and G Durand Scott (finishing off a 3 game suspension). Both are expected to play this afternoon. The Hurricanes hope to amp up their play, as a visit from powerhouse Michigan State and a trip to take on a good UMass team are on deck.
Detroit promises to give UM all they can handle. The 6'3 junior McCallum averages 21 ppg and 5 apg, and the 6'6 Anderson is coming off a 26 point performance in the Titans last game, a 85-79 win over Drake.
Detroit Scouting Report:
The Titans average 82 points a game and can really light it up from deep (43% 3P% as team so far this year). It all starts with McCallum who can create his own shot or dish to a teammate. Anderson has really thrived a secondary scorer and has hit 54% of hits shots including an astounding 57% from downtown. Make no mistake about it, this is a very good team, and are easily the favorites in their conference. Howard Jr. and Jason Calliste can both go off as well. Their lone loss this year was a very well played 77-74 contest against a pretty decent St. John's club. Detroit can score. If they have any weaknesses it is that they rely heavily on their starters and can be scored upon themselves.
Projected Starting Lineups:
Miami
C Reggie Johnson 6'10 290 SR.
F Kenny Kadji 6'11 242 SR
G Trey McKinney-Jones 6'5 220 SR
G Durand Scott 6'5 203 SR
G Shane Larkin 5'11 176 SODetroit
F Doug Anderson 6'6 213 SR
F Nick Minnerath 6'9 215 SR
F Juward Howard Jr. 6'6 210 SO
G Ray McCallum 6'3 190 JR
G Jason Calliste 6'2 173 SR
Prediction:
Detroit is a very good test for Miami. But UM should benefit tremendously from the return of Durand Scott. Not only will he help Miami with his slashing, but his passing in the post should help Kenny Kadji and Reggie Johnson get more chances on the block. Miami's size down low is the greatest advantage for either team. Scott will team with Larkin to try and slow down the very prolific McCallum. Trey McKinney Jones and Rion Brown will need to put the clamps on Anderson. Look for Miami's depth to carry the day in a shoot out 87-79.