In a commanding early-season performance, the Miami Hurricanes cruised to an 88-64 victory over the Binghamton Bearcats on Sunday, improving their record to 2-0. Newcomer Jalen Blackmon and veteran Nijel Pack each tallied 17 points, spearheading Miami’s offensive efforts and setting the pace for a well-rounded team effort. Blackmon, transferring in after two seasons at Stetson, displayed impressive efficiency, hitting 5-of-9 shots, including three 3-pointers, and going 4-of-5 from the free-throw line. Pack, meanwhile, was instrumental as both a scorer and facilitator, converting six of his 13 shots, including two 3-pointers, while dishing out six assists.
The Hurricanes set the tone for the game with a balanced attack. Jalil Bethea came off the bench to provide a spark, adding 13 points. Forward Matt Cleveland made his presence felt in the paint, recording nine points and an impressive 11 rebounds to help Miami control the boards.
Binghamton (1-2) fought hard to start, jumping out to a 10-4 lead thanks to early contributions from Tymu Chenery and Gavin Walsh, who led all scorers with 21 points and added 10 rebounds. However, the Bearcats’ lead was short-lived, as Pack answered with two 3-pointers and a jumper during a 12-0 Miami run that gave the Hurricanes a lead they would not relinquish. Blackmon then caught fire, sinking all three of his 3-point attempts and scoring nine points in the first half, propelling Miami to a dominant 46-25 halftime lead.
The Hurricanes continued to extend their advantage in the second half. Pack connected on another 3-pointer, and A.J. Staton-McCray added two free throws to stretch Miami’s lead to a game-high 83-54 with just over four minutes remaining. Miami’s depth and shooting prowess kept Binghamton on the back foot throughout, with Miami shooting efficiently from beyond the arc and distributing the ball effectively to capitalize on their scoring opportunities.
Walsh was the bright spot for Binghamton, shooting 7-of-13 overall and an impressive 4-of-7 from beyond the arc. Nehemia Benson provided 12 points off the bench, but the Bearcats couldn’t contain Miami’s balanced offense or match their intensity on the boards.
With this decisive win, Miami is building early momentum as they prepare to host Coppin State next Sunday, looking to continue their strong start and further develop team chemistry.
