Miami's Clutch Free Throws Seal Win, But Challenges Await in ACC Semifinal
Miami's Hurricanes showcased some late-game composure, nailing crucial free throws to edge out Louisville in the ACC Tournament quarterfinals. However, as they gear up for a semifinal clash with Virginia, there's room for improvement at the charity stripe.
In the final minute against Louisville, Miami sank five of six free throws, pivotal in their 78-73 victory. Despite this late-game precision, the Hurricanes shot just 60.9% from the line during the game, a stat they’ll need to boost against Virginia.
The quarterfinal win saw Miami making 19 of 29 free throws, with the game defined by clutch moments-those nail-biting instances when the score margin is five points or less with five minutes to go. A standout play was Shelton Henderson's blocked shot leading to a breakaway dunk, sealing Miami's fate in the closing seconds.
Throughout the 2025-26 season, Miami's free-throw shooting has been a concern, hitting only 68.0%-ranking them 325th nationally. These struggles allowed Louisville to stay within striking distance. Miami held the lead for over 22 minutes, while Louisville led for just over 12 minutes in a tightly contested matchup.
Louisville's largest lead came early, at 20-13, thanks to a 10-0 run. Miami countered with a strong second half, starting with a 12-3 run and never looking back. Although Louisville managed to cut the deficit to one point twice, Miami's early second-half surge and clutch free throws kept them ahead.
In the game's final minute, Malik Reneau's dunk was followed by a critical interception by Tru Washington, who was fouled and coolly sank both free throws, extending Miami's lead to 73-68. Louisville struggled to respond, and despite a late score by Ryan Conwell, Miami maintained a two-possession lead.
Isaac McKneely, a reliable 86.0% free-throw shooter, missed a crucial attempt, and Miami capitalized with Reneau's free throws and Henderson's game-sealing dunk.
As Miami prepares for Virginia, they'll need to tighten up their free-throw game. The Hurricanes have shown they can deliver when it counts, but consistency from the line could be key to advancing further in the ACC Tournament.