2013 ACC Tournament: Boston College vs. Miami With Canes Warning
By Joe Micik
Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Boston College basketball is in the second round of the 2013 ACC Tournament, and all they will do is draw the #1 seed tomorrow in the Miami Hurricanes. The Eagles have faced this team twice before, losing the first in a tight contest but getting blown out in the second. Will the third time be the charm?
For added insight on the Hurricanes, the story of their season, and what to expect in Friday’s quarterfinal, deputy editor Kyle and I spoke to Matthew of Canes Warning.
STG J: The first meeting between Boston College and Miami was a photo finish, and the second, well, not quite. Do you expect this game to be more like the first or second, or neither?
CW: I honestly expect tomorrow’s match-up to be a close one. Should Miami win, I don’t expect a blowout like we witnessed in the first meeting. The Canes played sluggishly towards the end of the season, dropping three of their last five games. If they come out quick, rebound and create turnovers, then I expect them to get the W.
STG K: Miami was barely able to beat Boston College at the empty Conte Forum, but by the next game blew out #1 Duke in proceeding to become a national power this year. What clicked?
CW: Miami remembered how to play defense! I believe in that game Miami held Duke to eight minutes without scoring any points. They were able to rebound and found a way to contain Plumlee, Curry, and Cook. Also, Durand Scott played an integral part in that win, as well as Kadji and Larkin. They had the total package that night – firing on all cylinders.
STG J: Plenty of Miami players had good games against the Eagles this year, but amongst them were Kadji and Scott. Who should BC worry about the most?
CW: Kenny Kadji has been on a roll lately. He is second in points per game behind Shane Larkin and averages 6.9 rebounds per game. But, Kadji has proven that he can shoot the three. Scott, on the other hand, is known for his outstanding defense. He was recently named the ACC’s Defensive Player of the Year and for good reason. However, if I were B.C. I would be more worried about containing Kadji.
STG K: Shane Larkin is only a sophomore and didn’t exactly have a great numbers-wise rookie season. What did he change about his game to become such a force in a lineup dominated by seniors?
CW: Honestly, I think that head coach Jim Larranaga has done a tremendous job in coaching up Larkin and played an integral part in his transition this year. He plays with confidence and he has fun when he is on the court. It’s hard to adjust to the college level in any sport, but whatever Larkin did, I hope that he keeps it up!
Read the rest of the interview on the next page.