Through the first few weeks of the young college basketball season, it’s become clear that while there are no great teams in the land, there are a host of must-see viewing options every single night.
Thanks to early season wins over Utah and Butler, the Miami Hurricanes have officially joined that list. The popular sleeper pick in the ACC has officially taken that role and run with it, thus far.
We all expected veteran guards Angel Rodriguez and Sheldon McClellan to be dynamic, didn’t we? The two have combined for 30 points per game thus far, and almost six assists as well. But it’s the improvement of point guard Ja’Quan Newton that has made the biggest difference.
Newton, in his second year, has seen his usage skyrocket this season. As a freshman, he averaged just 13.5 minutes per game (up to 21.4 minutes this year) and four points, which he has improved to 11.8 per game. His turnovers have increased, sure, but Jim Larranaga needs him to stay aggressive so that opposing defenses can’t focus too much on Rodriguez and McClellan.
The play seven-footer Tonye Jekiri (10.2 points, 10 rebounds per game) has given them an anchor under the basket as well, so perimeter guards can shuttle their man towards him at the front of the rim.
With Virginia, North Carolina, and Duke all looking susceptible to let-downs, the Hurricanes are as good of a bet to win the ACC as anyone at this point. Buy stock in them as soon as you have a chance.
