Miami Hurricanes vs Wake Forest Demon Deacons Picks and Predictions January 11th 2025

Miami’s challenges compounding with Wake Forest up next

The Miami Hurricanes are grappling with mounting adversity as they prepare to face the surging Wake Forest Demon Deacons on Saturday in Coral Gables, Fla. The two teams are heading in opposite directions, setting the stage for an intriguing Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) clash.

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Wake Forest: A Team in Sync

Wake Forest (11-4, 3-1 ACC) has been a model of consistency this season. The Demon Deacons have yet to lose consecutive games and come into this matchup having won four of their last five contests. Their recent 77-59 victory over NC State highlighted the team’s offensive efficiency, as they posted a season-best 54.9% shooting from the field.

Key Players Driving Success

• Hunter Sallis: The former Gonzaga guard has been sensational, leading the team in scoring with 18.3 points per game. He showcased his scoring prowess with 20 points against NC State.
• Tre’Von Spillers: The Appalachian State transfer dominates the paint, averaging 9.1 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game, while also contributing on offense.
• Cameron Hildreth: A reliable playmaker, the senior leads the team in assists (3.5) and adds 12.4 points per game.
• Juke Harris: The freshman forward is emerging as a valuable contributor, shooting 37.5% from beyond the arc and scoring a career-high 17 points last weekend. Coach Steve Forbes praised Harris for his defensive physicality and commitment in practice.

The Deacons’ balanced attack and defensive discipline make them a formidable opponent, especially against a Miami team struggling to find its footing.

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Miami: Fighting an Uphill Battle

The Hurricanes (4-11, 0-4 ACC) are facing one of the most challenging stretches in recent program history. Miami has lost 13 straight ACC regular-season games, a streak dating back to last season. Their latest defeat, an 80-65 loss to Florida State, underlines the team’s difficulties on both ends of the court.

Roster Woes

Injuries have ravaged Miami’s depth, particularly at the critical point guard position:

• Nijel Pack: The team’s leading scorer (13.9 ppg) and top playmaker (4.3 apg) has been sidelined for five consecutive games with a foot injury.
• Divine Ugochukwu: The freshman backup suffered a hip injury against Florida State, further depleting Miami’s rotation.

Interim head coach Bill Courtney, who stepped in after Jim Larranaga’s sudden retirement on Dec. 26, expressed the challenges of adapting to these setbacks.

“When Divine went down, that was hurtful. We’re now playing guys who have never played point guard,” Courtney said.

Despite these obstacles, Courtney is urging his team to show resilience. “Nobody is feeling sorry for us. We’ve been good for so long. People are taking their shots now, and we have to respond. We have to fight.”

Notable Contributors

• Matthew Cleveland: The sophomore guard is a consistent offensive threat, averaging 12.9 points per game.
• Lynn Kidd: Miami’s center anchors the team in the paint, leading in rebounds (7.4) and contributing 11.1 points per game.

However, without Pack and Ugochukwu, Miami’s offense has lacked direction, leading to inefficient play and turnovers in critical moments.

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Key Matchups to Watch

1. Wake Forest’s Offense vs. Miami’s Defense

Wake Forest’s high-powered offense, led by Sallis and Hildreth, thrives on efficient ball movement and sharp shooting. Miami’s defense, ranked among the lower tiers in the ACC, will need to find answers, particularly in guarding the perimeter.

2. Miami’s Frontcourt vs. Tre’Von Spillers

Lynn Kidd’s battle against Tre’Von Spillers in the paint could determine how competitive Miami remains. Spillers’ dominance on the boards and shot-blocking ability pose a significant challenge.

3. Coaching Stability

Steve Forbes’ experience and steady leadership provide Wake Forest with an edge, especially against a Miami team still adjusting to Courtney’s interim role.

What’s at Stake

For Wake Forest, a win would further solidify their status as a legitimate ACC contender. On the other hand, Miami is desperate to end their losing streak and regain confidence amidst a turbulent season. While the Hurricanes’ struggles are undeniable, this matchup offers them an opportunity to prove their resilience against a formidable opponent.

Prediction

Given Wake Forest’s momentum and Miami’s struggles with injuries and depth, the Demon Deacons enter this game as clear favorites. However, the Hurricanes’ home-court advantage and the potential return of Pack or Ugochukwu could add an element of unpredictability.

Conclusion

Saturday’s showdown is more than just a game—it’s a litmus test for both programs. Wake Forest aims to continue its rise, while Miami seeks to stop the bleeding and salvage a difficult season. Basketball fans can expect an emotional and hard-fought contest as these two ACC rivals clash in Coral Gables.