Jim Larranaga and Katie Meier discuss Elite 8 appearances for both Miami basketball programs

The Miami Hurricanes are getting it done on the basketball court. Friday was really a banner day for the ‘Canes athletic department as the Miami women’s team took care of business against Villanova early in the day to secure a spot in the Elite 8. Then, later in the evening, the Miami men’s team moved on to the Elite 8 as well by knocking off No. 1 seed Houston in convincing fashion. Just stellar results for Miami hoops.

On Saturday’s edition of College GameDay ahead of the Elite 8 games, ESPN invited both Miami basketball coaches, Jim Larranaga (men’s) and Katie Meier (women’s), to discuss the dual achievements of their programs.

“Well, I think it speaks volumes to the commitment that the University has made to the athletic department and to our programs,” said Larranaga. “They provided us the resources to be competitive.”

Coach Meier then added:

“I think it’s a great platform for us. I also think just it gets inside each of our programs, gets us a little more exposure. We’re two coaches that love their players and the players just appreciate the love and have the coaches’ backs with their passion, their integrity.”

The two coaches also revealed that their teams have supported the other throughout their runs. Jim Larranaga said their games have been fantastic and he’s enjoyed watching this magical run.

“Our players were tuned in to watch Katie’s team play yesterday. My coaches and I were watching. You know, they’ve had some unbelievable games, not just yesterday, but the game before that against Indiana was just unbelievable. So, they’re playing very very well and they’re moving on just like we are.”

According to Meier, the women’s team has been so busy that it’s been hard to watch the men, but whenever they get the opportunity, they’ve tuned in to cheer on the other ‘Canes.

“You know, it’s so funny the places you go, like where we’re able to watch the men’s games. It’s either on a bus, in a lobby or in a meeting room while you’re waiting. It’s apart of the daily itinerary.”

Heck of a year for basketball in Coral Gables. The men’s Miami team is back in the Elite 8 for a second straight year while the Lady ‘Canes made a shocking run to the regional finals as a No. 9 seed in their region.

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