Men's Basketball Opens Practice

Oct. 16, 2004

Coral Gables, Fla. (hurricanesports.com) – New University of Miami head coach Frank Haith and the men’s basketball team began preparations for the 2004-05 season with a three-hour practice Saturday morning at the Knight Sports Complex.

Saturday marked the first day that Division I men’s basketball teams could begin full squad practices.

“I think we had a lot of intensity and showed a lot of enthusiasm,” said Haith. “Defensively we need to get better and that is one of the things we emphasized today. But overall I was pleased with the team’s effort.”

Haith, who was named the Hurricanes’ 11th coach on April 12th, inherits eight lettermen and two starters from last season’s team.

“I thought Rob (Hite) was excellent today and Guillermo (Diaz) had his moments,” said Haith of the Hurricanes’ two returning starters. “They play well together, I saw that today. They do a good job of looking for each other which I think will be a key to our success this season.”

Not only does Miami have a new coach this season but also a new conference. The Hurricanes, who were members of the BIG EAST Conference since 1991, will be competing in their inaugural season in the Atlantic Coast Conference against the likes of Duke, North Carolina, Maryland Wake Forest and Florida State.

“I am really looking forward to this season,” said Hite. “I think we are going to do well. We have a positive attitude, we are working hard and we are very close as a team.”

Senior forward William Frisby added, “Practice was very exciting. You can see that Coach Haith really wants to win. And when he wants it, we want it. His energy really made things exciting.”

Miami opens its exhibition schedule against Barry University on November 4 beginning at 7 p.m. at the Convocation Center. The Hurricanes open the regular-season at home against Wofford on November 20.

Season tickets start at just $175. For ticket information or to purchase tickets contact the Hurricane Ticket Office at 305-284-CANE.