The Miami Hurricanes tipped off their college basketball season in commanding fashion, crushing Fairleigh Dickinson 113-72 on Monday night. Fueled by an explosive debut from Virginia Tech transfer Lynn Kidd and a stellar performance from senior Nijel Pack, Miami’s deep, senior-laden roster set a high bar in their season opener.
Lynn Kidd, in his first game with Miami, wasted no time in establishing his presence. The 6’10” forward delivered a nearly flawless shooting display, sinking 10 of 11 shots from the floor and going a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line. His 24-point, nine-rebound effort showcased the athleticism and versatility he brings to Miami’s frontcourt. Kidd’s performance provided a powerful start for a Miami squad loaded with experience and fresh talent.
Senior Nijel Pack, aiming to bounce back after a challenging 2023-24 season due to injuries, started his year strong. Pack tallied 21 points on 9-of-11 shooting, including a pair of three-pointers. He also dished out five assists, leading Miami’s offense with poise and efficiency. With Pack healthy and leading the backcourt, Miami’s perimeter play appears primed for a dominant season.
Miami’s roster this season includes several key additions. Kidd was one of four graduate-level transfers who made their Hurricanes debut, joined by Stetson transfer Jalen Blackmon, East Carolina transfer Brandon Johnson, and Yale transfer Yussif Basa-Ama. Blackmon impressed with 15 points, while Johnson and Basa-Ama chipped in with seven points and defensive presence in the paint.
Freshmen Divine Ugochukwu and Jalil Bethea also made their collegiate debuts, bringing additional energy and skill to the lineup. Ugochukwu scored an impressive 15 points, showcasing his readiness for the college level. Bethea, a five-star recruit and McDonald’s All-American, added nine points, displaying the raw potential that could make him a game-changer this season.
As a team, Miami was efficient and relentless offensively, shooting 66.7% from the field (46 of 69) and 41.2% from three (7 of 17). They exploited mismatches, played unselfish basketball, and executed with precision, creating open looks and converting high-percentage shots. Fairleigh Dickinson had no answers for Miami’s pace and skill, trailing early and unable to close the gap as the Hurricanes consistently pushed the tempo.
For Fairleigh Dickinson, Terrence Brown led the scoring with 18 points, followed by Dylan Jones with 15 and Jo’el Emanuel with 13. The Knights shot a respectable 47.2% from the field but struggled from deep, making just 30.4% of their three-point attempts (7 of 23).
This season-opening victory sets a confident tone for the Hurricanes, who look to leverage their blend of experience and youthful talent as they navigate a challenging season. With Kidd’s immediate impact, Pack’s return to form, and promising performances from their newcomers, Miami appears to have the depth, balance, and firepower to compete at a high level in the ACC. The Hurricanes will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for a season filled with high expectations.
