RedHawks Shine on Senior Night to clinch MAC Tournament berth

The Miami Men’s Basketball team honored six seniors Friday night.

Forwards Precious Ayah, James Beck, Dalonte Brown and Eli McNamara, as well as guards Isaiah Coleman-Lands and Mekhi Lairy, played their final game in Millett Hall.

Before Friday’s “White Out” game, Miami needed to win or for Central Michigan and Bowling Green to lose to secure a spot in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Tournament.

The RedHawks started their senior night strong, dominating the first half.

Their offense flowed with chemistry, as Miami shot 63.3% from the field and drained eight 3-pointers. The team outscored the Eagles 45-29 and held the lead for most of the first half.

A 21-3 run propelled the RedHawks forward, as six different RedHawks scored during the run.

Defensively, Miami remained consistent throughout the half. The ‘Hawks forced 11 turnovers which led to 22 of their points.

Eastern Michigan found its rhythm in the second half, coming out on a 22-17 run.

Both teams battled, and the Eagles closed the deficit to five with two and a half minutes left. Brown Sr. nailed a three, which changed the momentum for the RedHawks.

“I knew the shot was going to blow the roof off,” Brown said.

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Miami went on a 9-1 run to win the game 76-63.

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With their win, the RedHawks secured a spot in the MAC Tournament.

“This is where we wanted to be,” said coach Jack Owens postgame. “We have an opportunity to take care of business and make it to the NCAA tournament but we’re going to take it one game at a time.”

Miami is seeded at No. 7 and faces No. 2 Kent State on Thursday, March 10 in the quarterfinals. The game will air on ESPN+ and will likely tip off around 4 or 4:30 p.m.

knoxj@miamioh.edu