Miami basketball could be down two more players vs Virginia Tech
After hearing that Dewan Hernandez would be leaving the Miami basketball program, Head Coach Jim Larranaga reported Monday two more players could be missing for Wednesday night’s game against Virginia Tech.
Speaking on Monday night on Hurricanes hotline, Jim Larranaga spoke with Miami Hurricanes play-by-play announcer Joe Zagacki regarding an update with Hernandez and the state of the team going forward. The Miami basketball team could also be missing Zach Johnson and Ebuka Izundu Wednesday night against Virginia Tech.
Johnson injured his ankle against Florida State and Larranaga said he didn’t know if he was going to play. Ebuka Izundu was sent home on Monday with a cold. Larranaga said that the trainers did not want Izundu was who contagious to get the other players sick. Izundu’s status for Wednesday’s game was not mentioned.
The Miami basketball team did get a conclusive decision from the NCAA on Monday regarding Hernandez. Hernandez has been out this entire season because his eligibility came into question. The 6’10 C-F was suspended for the remainder of this season and 40 percent of the 2019-20 season by the NCAA.
Hernandez declared for the NBA Draft instead of sitting out approximately 12 games next year. His absence has been a been a big blow for the Miami basketball team. The Hurricanes have only a seven-man rotation and eight players on scholarship. Izundu and Sophomore point-guard Chris Lykes have stepped up this season.
Was updating our Dewan Hernandez story again, but, on Hurricane Hotline with @canesvoice, Jim Larrañaga says he's unsure whether Zach Johnson (ankle) will be available Wednesday against Virginia Tech. Ebuka Izundu is dealing with a cold and was sent home from the training room.
— Christy Chirinos (@ChristyChirinos) January 28, 2019
The Hurricanes matchup well with Virginia Tech according to Larranaga. The Hokies use a four-out, one-in lineup like Miami does. This is one of Virginia Tech’s best teams ever. The Hokies 16-3 record and .842 winning percentage is the fourth-best in school history. Dell Curry, the father of Stepan is their most famous basketball alum.