The energy around Coral Gables is basically electric right now, and honestly, it’s not just because the football team is packing their bags for the National Championship in a few days. Tonight, the focus shifts to the hardwood. The University of Miami game today sees the Hurricanes (14-2, 3-0 ACC) heading into a chilly South Bend to face the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM EST at the Purcell Pavilion.
You’ve probably seen the headlines. Miami is a 3.5-point favorite. But if you’re a Canes fan, you know better than to trust a road game in January, especially when the Irish are 7-2 at home.
The Tre Donaldson factor
Tre Donaldson is playing like a man possessed. Coming off a 27-point explosion against Georgia Tech, he was just named ACC Player of the Week. He’s the engine. When he’s hitting those 3-pointers—he’s averaging nearly two per game lately—Miami looks like a Top 10 team.
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Jai Lucas, in his first year at the helm, has this group playing with a weird kind of confidence. It’s sort of a "why not us?" vibe. Jeff Goodman and other analysts are already calling Lucas the best first-year coach in the country. He’s got Malik Reneau shooting a ridiculous 57.5% from the field. If Reneau gets touches early in the paint tonight, Notre Dame is going to have a long evening.
Why this game is sneakier than it looks
Notre Dame isn't exactly lighting the world on fire at 10-6, but they have Carson Towt. The guy is a vacuum on the glass, pulling down over 10 rebounds a game. Miami sometimes struggles when they can't control the boards, and if the Irish get second-chance points, that 3.5-point spread will vanish fast.
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South Bend is a tough place to play. It's cold. The crowd is right on top of you. Miami has to avoid the "trap game" feel, especially with the Florida State rivalry game looming next week.
What about the football team?
I know, I know. You’re actually thinking about the Indiana game on January 19th. It’s hard not to. The U is officially heading to the National Championship at Hard Rock Stadium after that wild 31-27 win over Ole Miss. Carson Beck’s late scramble is still playing on loop in my head.
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But here is the deal: today is actually a huge day for football fans too. Ticket requests for the Natty opened this morning at 12:00 PM ET for 2026 Hurricane Club members. If you’re a 2025 member, your window opens at 2:00 PM ET today. Basically, if you haven’t refreshed your email yet, you’re already behind.
How to watch and what to expect
For the basketball game tonight, you’re looking at an ESPN2 or ACC Network broadcast depending on your local listings.
- Matchup: Miami Hurricanes at Notre Dame Fighting Irish
- Time: 7:00 PM EST
- Location: Purcell Pavilion, South Bend, IN
- Line: Miami -3.5 (O/U 144.5)
Expect a high-scoring affair. Miami is averaging nearly 86 points over their last ten games. They play fast, they shoot accurately (51% as a team), and they're fun to watch. Notre Dame will try to slow it down, but I’m not sure they have the perimeter defenders to stop Donaldson and the rest of the backcourt.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Check your email: If you’re a Hurricane Club member, log in to the ticket portal immediately to secure your National Championship seats before the 2:00 PM window shifts.
- Monitor the injury report: Keep an eye on any last-minute updates regarding Malik Reneau; his interior presence is non-negotiable for a road win tonight.
- Set the DVR: With the game starting at 7:00 PM, make sure your settings are updated so you don't miss the opening tip while dealing with South Florida traffic.