Florida defeats Miami 77-67 in season opener at Benchmark International Arena
Thomas Haugh recorded a double-double while Acaden Lewis scored 24 points in the in-state matchup.
By Miguel Navarro ·
No. 1 Florida defeated No. 14 Miami by a score of 77 to 67 on Monday night, ending both teams' seasons with a decisive victory in the conference rivalry.
The Gators entered the game carrying a recent loss at the same venue. They had previously fallen to Iowa in the second round of the NCAA Tournament at Benchmark International Arena on March 22. This season marks the first meeting between the two in-state rivals since that tournament upset.
Thomas Haugh led the offensive effort for Florida with 19 points and 10 rebounds. The 6-foot-9 senior also contributed five offensive rebounds, four assists, two steals, and one block. He did not turn the ball over and made four of his eight attempts from beyond the three-point line. Rueben Chinyelu provided additional support with six points and 14 rebounds for the Gators.
Miami’s scoring was anchored by Acaden Lewis, who transferred from Villanova. Lewis recorded 24 points in his first contest for the Hurricanes. The visitors kept the game competitive during the second half, scoring the first eight points of that period. Somto Cyril narrowed the gap to two points, making it 53 to 51, after converting a missed free throw into a dunk.
Florida reasserted control through defensive pressure. The Gators held Miami without a field goal for a five-minute stretch. Urban Klavzar extended the lead to 66 to 55 with a three-pointer. Earlier in the first half, Florida established a commanding position following a 9-0 run. Isaiah Brown added to the advantage late in the half by securing a putback dunk after a missed shot by Haugh, putting the Gators up 44 to 32.
The physical nature of the contest resulted in two technical fouls and three fouls upgraded to flagrant. Florida’s roster has remained stable over several years, allowing the team to rely on established depth and physical play in this matchup.
The Gators will host Jacksonville on Thursday night. Miami will play at home against Wagner on Friday night.
Source: WSVN · original report published
