STANFORD, Calif. – The Stanford Cardinal men’s basketball team delivered a resounding performance against the Miami Hurricanes, securing an emphatic 88-51 victory on January 24, 2024, at the Stanford Maples Pavilion. This win marked Miami's eighth consecutive loss, pushing their record to 4-15 overall and 0-8 in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
From the first tip-off, Stanford set the tone with their aggressive play and high shooting efficiency. The Cardinal shot 60.6% from the field during the second half and 52.3% overall, thoroughly outmatching the Hurricanes, who managed only 35.1% from the floor.
Maxime Raynaud emerged as the standout performer, finishing the game with 28 points and 12 rebounds, marking his 16th double-double of the season. Raynaud's dominance on offense was complemented by his tenacious defense, as he also contributed two steals and blocked two shots. "Raynaud had seven [double-doubles] in a row starting the season," according to AP News, highlighting his consistency and skill.
Matthew Cleveland led Miami with 23 points, attempting to bridge the gap for his struggling team. Cleveland’s scoring effort, albeit noteworthy, was not enough to overcome the deficit created by Stanford’s impressive start. He managed to score 19 points after halftime, but the Cardinals had already dug too deep of a hole.
The first half saw Stanford get off to a staggeringly good start, racing out to a 37-21 halftime lead. Following Miami's brief 1-0 advantage, Stanford quickly took control, utilizing back-to-back baskets, including contributions from Oziyah Sellers and Chisom Okpara. A remarkable 14-0 run propelled Stanford to a commanding position, and the Cardinal were relentless. "It was all Cardinal after [the initial Miami lead]," the AP reported, emphasizing the swift turnaround.
Miami attempted to regain some footing early in the second half, with Cleveland scoring the first five points, cutting Stanford’s lead to 11. This effort, sadly for the Hurricanes, was quickly extinguished as Stanford responded with aggressive plays, restoring their lead to 18 and eventually pushing it to as much as 39 points late in the game. Oklahoma’s previous claim to fame was eclipsed as Stanford continued to thrive off their offensive prowess.
Chisom Okpara finished with 12 points, showcasing his efficiency by making all his shots, including four baskets from the field, alongside four assists. Jaylen Blakes also contributed significantly with 12 points, four assists, and three steals, signifying the comprehensive team performance by the Cardinal.
While Stanford enjoyed their offensive fireworks, Miami has endured turmoil under new leadership following the departure of longtime head coach Jim Larrañaga. The team has struggled immensely, suffering significant defeats including their recent 117-74 blowout against SMU. Fans have been left wondering how the team, with such talent on paper, could flounder so drastically.
The losses have pointed to more than just on-court performance. The absence of key players like graduate student guard Nijel Pack has hampered Miami’s ability to compete effectively. Prior to his injury, Pack was averaging nearly 14 points per game and was pivotal to the Miami strategy. Without him, Miami’s scoring options have dwindled significantly, leading to efforts being concentrated on Cleveland, who averages 13.8 points per game but has lacked the necessary support.
Looking forward, Stanford will hope to build on this momentum as they prepare to face Florida State next, aiming to extend their home success. Meanwhile, Miami will look to find answers, hoping to salvage some dignity as they face the California Golden Bears, aware of the urgent need to band together and reverse their spiraling season.
This game serves as both validation of Stanford’s burgeoning season within the ACC and as yet another low point for Miami, signaling the need for significant introspection and adjustment if they hope to reclaim their footing.