One very interesting early trend and one huge reason why Miami is hanging with Connecticut is that the rebounds are even at 12-12. UConn ranks second nationally by out-rebounding its opponents by nine a game; Miami is tied for 87th with an advantage of just two a game. If the Hurricanes can hang in there under the boards, this game will not be the UConn rout many expect.
Sweet-shooting Miami and defensive-minded Connecticut opened their semifinal matchup with something of a role reversal. UConn, also known for its dominant paint scoring, made a series of 3-pointers to take a sudden 9-0 lead.