Preview: Pittsburgh Panthers at Miami (Fla.) Hurricanes

CORAL GABLES, Fla. (Interstat) — The surging Miami Hurricanes will look to extend their six-game winning streak when they host the inconsistent Pittsburgh Panthers in an Atlantic Coast Conference men’s basketball matchup Tuesday at Watsco Center.

Miami (11-2) enters conference play as one of the ACC’s hottest teams, averaging 94.2 points during its streak. The Hurricanes are led by dynamic guard Tre Donaldson, who is coming off a 21-point, 9-assist performance in a 105-67 rout of North Florida on Dec. 21. Over his last four games, Donaldson has averaged 15.3 points and 10.8 assists, orchestrating one of the nation’s most efficient offenses.

Pittsburgh (7-6) seeks momentum after a split in its final nonconference games. The Panthers routed Penn State 80-46 on Dec. 21 but dropped three straight prior to that. Pitt’s success often hinges on forward Roman Siulepa, who erupted for 28 points in the win over the Nittany Lions. His production has been volatile, however, scoring just 18 total points in the three games preceding that breakout.

The Panthers will need Siulepa at his best to counter a deep Miami attack that features four players averaging double figures. Beyond Donaldson, forward Malik Reneau (19 points vs. North Florida) and wing Shelton Henderson (20 points) provide potent scoring options.

Defensively, Pittsburgh must improve its perimeter containment to challenge Miami’s high-powered attack. The Hurricanes have scored at least 88 points in every game during their win streak and are shooting 50.2% from the field this season.

This game opens the ACC schedule for both teams. Pittsburgh begins a tough league slate, facing Clemson next. Miami opens its conference road schedule at Wake Forest on Jan. 7.

Tip-off is set for 9 p.m. EST Tuesday. The game will be broadcast on the ACC Network.