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Miami got its’ biggest test of the season to date Vs the 21 ranked Iowa State Cyclones in Orlando at the Advocare Invitational this morning.
UM struggled mightily offensively, and could not keep up with a seasoned ISU team in disappointing 73-56 early season loss.
The ‘Canes once again were led early by the scoring of Ja’Quan Newton, but the Cyclones were white hot from distance to build a 9-4 lead.
UM settled down defensively, and freshman Bruce Brown found fellow freshman Dewan Huell for an and one, and Miami had the lead.
However Deonte Burton and Iowa State kept shooting outside shots, and when they fell the Hurricanes struggled to defend.
Burton would prove to be a headache all day.
On the other end of the floor though they got a boost from a pair of jumpers of their own by Dejan Vasiljevic.
After a few defensive lapses that helped ISU finally get inside, it was 23-19 for the bad guys at the 5 minute mark.
Newton kept the ‘Canes going though, and his 9th points of the game on a pretty drive plus the harm, put UM back on top.
It was short lived though and a strong Iowa State run ensued to spark them to a 35-29 lead after 20 minutes.
Things never really got better from there.
The Cyclones were 6-8 from deep in the opening half. UM was just 2-9 from three.
The early part of the second half was highlighted by yesterday’s hero, Anthony Lawrence Jr., who got 5 quick points in the opening moments to get the ‘Canes close.
But Miami’s offense couldn’t find consistent rhythm, and they fell behind by 8 at the 12 minute mark.
The lead swelled to double digits on a transition jumper by Donovan Jackson.
UM went scoreless over a 4 minute drought, that helped ISU take control.
Miami missed open threes as well as inside drives, and the compounded things with a plethora of turnovers.
When their defense finally let up, things got ugly.
Chalk this one up as a learning experience.
Coach L and staff will have a lot to work on in the coming weeks.
Offensive identity will be at the top of the list.
The ‘Canes finished just 2-19 from three, and committed 19 turnovers.
Newton led the way with 21 points.