Miami men’s basketball is seeking its first Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship since the 2006-07 season.
Miami’s home game on Friday against Kent State University will be broadcast nationally on CBS Sports Network. Miami men’s basketball games normally stream on ESPN+.
With 10 wins and two losses in the MAC conference and 19 wins and seven losses overall, the RedHawks sit at second in the standings behind the Akron Zips, who are undefeated in the MAC.
The coaching staff and team are looking forward to the publicity with the upcoming game. Sophomore guard Evan Ipsaro will be playing Friday, and he’s excited about the game being broadcast on CBS Sports Network.
“Anytime we can be on national television and show a bigger audience what we can do, that’s always a huge benefit,” Ipsaro said. “As much as our mentality tries not to change, we know the game is different. I think it feeds into our energy and helps us a lot.”
Redhawks’ Head Coach Travis Steele attributes their mentality to their coaching strategies. Steele and Associate Head Coach Jonathan Holmes said the team keeps the same mindset going into every game.
Holmes, who is entering his twentieth year as a coach and his third year at Miami, said he also attributes the victories to the connectivity of his players.
“Being in year twenty, I’ve been a part of a lot of teams, and the ones with team chemistry are the ones you remember,” Holmes said. “Not every team has the same level of connection, but when it’s at an elite level, it’s really noticeable.”
Ahead of the Kent State Game, Holmes said he trusts his players to think and act as if the team has a record of 1-0 when entering any game, including one broadcasted on CBS Sports.
“We prepare the same way, whether it’s a conference game or not,” Holmes said. “Whether it’s a nationally televised game like it is on Friday, or whatever it may be, our preparation stays the same. Coach Steele is big on that, and our guys understand that too.”
Only two home games remain for the Miami men’s basketball team after Friday. For tickets and more information about Miami men’s basketball, visit the basketball team’s website.
