This 1 UVA defensive stat means Miami needs Tre Donaldson to go nuclear again

Miami loves to go hard in the paint, but the Hurricanes might have to pivot against Virginia on Saturday. 

The Hurricanes are one of the best inside scoring teams in the country. They are top-15 nationally in overall field goal percentage and top-20 nationally in two-pointers. Miami likes to control the post play on both sides of the court, as evident with a top-20 ranking in defensive rebounding percentage as well.

However, Virginia protects the rim exceptionally well. Teams are shooting around 56 percent when they get to the rim against the Cavaliers and 37.4 percent in the paint. That means it's going to be on Tre Donaldson to make things happen and, once again, carry the Hurricanes on offense.

Tre Donaldson will be Miami's answer to Virginia's tough defense

Inside scoring is a big reason why the Hurricanes are sitting 3rd in the ACC at 21-5. And even though Miami isn't getting all the love in NET rankings and with KenPom, the Hurricanes' power on the interior is something that will be a problem for most opponents.

But Donaldson was brought in from Michigan for these moments when the team's biggest strength could be neutralized. Whether it's a game where the team is struggling from the floor and needs someone to take over, like Tuesday's 67-66 win over Virginia Tech. Donaldson scored the Hurricanes' final 15 points and was going to be the guy with the ball in his hands down the stretch.

Jai Lucas knows that he can count on Donaldson in these late-game situations when the Hurricanes need a basket or need someone to get to the line. Saturday presents a golden opportunity to get a signature win against a team that will likely be a big factor in tournament season. As much as Miami would like to get top production from their bigs, it's probably going to be hard to expect it. 

So, it's good news that Donaldson appears to be peaking at the right time. And that gives Miami a healthy shot at shocking the crowd in Charlottesville.