For the first time in five years, a Division I college basketball team entered the postseason undefeated. But Friday’s closing price was very close.
No. 19 Miami (Ohio) improved to 31-0 in the regular-season finale and defeated in-state rival Ohio State 110-108 in overtime on Friday. They are the first team to go undefeated in the regular season since Gonzaga in 2020-21.
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The final hurdle for the Redhawks is their most persistent sore point. Their last road win against Ohio was in 2011. Their last regular season road win against Ohio was in 2006.
It was obvious from the start that reversing history would not be easy, and the lead remained in single digits until late in the first half. Miami’s lead reached as many as 11 points, but Ohio State tied the game throughout the second half until it was tied with 40 seconds left.
Ohio nearly ended the game in overtime.
The score in overtime was also close, with Peter Suder hitting two free throws with 12 seconds left. Ohio hit a potential game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer, and Miami players celebrated.
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They also made sure to let Ohio State fans know it, and Bobcat fans responded in kind.
Miami’s mission now turns to the MAC Tournament, where it will be the No. 1 seed. They will play eighth-seeded UMass on Thursday.
Next up is the NCAA Tournament. We don’t know who needs to hear this, but no matter what happens on Friday, Miami is likely already on the floor. Much has been made about their soft schedule — which, as is the case with many competitive mid-majors, is not their fault — but it’s hard to imagine the committee snubbing a 30-2 team no matter who they play.
Of course, Miami now has a chance to play a team that’s 34-0 in Sunday’s Selection Game.
