Massachusetts men’s basketball advanced to the Mid-American Conference semifinals after defeating No. 20 Miami (OH), 87-83, at Rocket Arena in Cleveland on March 12. The Minutemen overcame two double-digit deficits to hand Miami (OH) its first loss of the season and move forward in the tournament.
The victory is significant as it marks Massachusetts’ first win over a nationally ranked opponent since November 22, 2013, when they defeated No. 19 New Mexico. The team had lost eleven straight games against ranked teams prior to this matchup, including two earlier losses this season to Miami (OH).
Leonardo Bettiol led the Minutemen with 25 points and eight rebounds, shooting efficiently from both the field and free throw line. Marcus Banks Jr. contributed 18 points and five rebounds, breaking the program’s single-season record for three-pointers made with his first shot from behind the arc during the game. Daniel Hankins-Sanford returned from injury to add 11 points and eight rebounds, while Jayden Ndigue scored 16 points and also grabbed eight boards.
Miami (OH) featured a balanced offense with five players scoring in double figures, led by Bryant Byers who finished with 17 points and five rebounds. The RedHawks held leads throughout much of the game but were unable to hold off Massachusetts’ late surge.
The Minutemen will next face either Toledo or Bowling Green in the MAC semifinals on Friday at 5 p.m., with coverage available on CBS Sports Network and updates provided through umassathletics.com or @UMassMBB on X (Twitter).
The result not only ends Miami (OH)’s undefeated run but also provides momentum for Massachusetts as they continue their postseason campaign.
