Jim Larranaga comments on upset win over Auburn, reaching Sweet 16

Following Miami‘s upset win over two-seeded Auburn, head coach Jim Larranaga commented on the big win and making the Sweet 16. The Hurricanes shocked the Tigers with a 79-61 win, reaching the Sweet 16 for the fourth time in school history. 10-seed Miami will face 11-seed Iowa State in the next round, after their major upset of Wisconsin.

Jim Larranaga on beating Auburn

After the Hurricanes’ big win, Larranaga showed up for his on-court interview with his guard Charlie Moore by his side and excitedly explained how he felt his team earned their trip to the school’s first Sweet 16 appearance since 2016.

“Well we started last summer putting in a new defense called the ‘Scramble’ and these guys did it to perfection today,” said Larranaga. “Turnovers and fast break opportunities coming off our defense. So, very very proud of them. Very happy moment.”

Larranaga was then asked how it felt being able to get over their disappointing season last year and making it this far in the NCAA Tournament.

“Well we were healthy,” answered Larranaga. “We weren’t healthy last year. We had six scholarship players most of the season. But now, with this guy [Charlie Moore] quarterbacking us — can I call you Chris Paul? He is for us our Chris Paul.”

“That sounds great! We’re going to Chicago coach,” responded Moore as he took over the interview. “Sounds great. I’m happy, I’m excited we got the win. Auburn played hard, it was a hard-fought game. We just played together, I’m just happy for the team. All the hard work we put in, all season, it comes together. It’s our first year together really. We built a bond — a special bond, I love those guys to death.”

Miami’s tournament run involved upsetting USC in the first round and now Auburn in the second, opening the door for an even deeper run. In both games, Miami’s ball control was a key factor as they committed only seven turnovers through two games. Charlie Moore ended his night against Auburn almost recording a triple-double with 15 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists.