Miami (OH) RedHawks lose undefeated season to UMass in MAC tournament

Published: Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 5:15 pm

Miami RedHawks' Undefeated Season Ends in MAC Tournament Upset

The Miami RedHawks, boasting a perfect 31-0 record throughout the regular season, suffered a shocking defeat in the MAC Tournament quarterfinals. The UMass Minutemen, with a regular season record of 17-15, upset the top-seeded RedHawks with an 87-83 victory. This unexpected outcome has significantly altered the landscape of the NCAA Tournament bubble, creating uncertainty for teams vying for a spot in the upcoming tournament.

Miami had previously defeated UMass twice during the regular season, with scores of 86-84 and 87-76. The Minutemen's victory marks one of the most significant upsets of the season.

The loss has also intensified the debate surrounding the RedHawks' potential inclusion in the NCAA Tournament. A rivalry has emerged between Miami and Auburn, a team currently on the bubble. Auburn's coaching staff has been advocating for their team's selection, citing a more challenging schedule. The RedHawks' loss may have bolstered Auburn's chances.

With Miami's automatic bid now off the table, the Akron Zips are considered the favorites to win the MAC Tournament. Akron's only conference loss this season was to the RedHawks. UMass, meanwhile, will advance to the semifinals, aiming to continue their unexpected run.

Miami's fate now rests with the selection committee, who will announce the tournament field on Sunday. The committee will have to decide whether to include the RedHawks, despite their tournament loss, or favor other teams.

BNN's Perspective:

The RedHawks' loss is a harsh reminder of the unpredictable nature of college basketball. While their regular season dominance is undeniable, the tournament loss complicates their path to the NCAA Tournament. The selection committee now faces a difficult decision, balancing the RedHawks' impressive record against their disappointing postseason performance. It's a tough situation, but the committee must weigh all factors to ensure the best teams are represented.

Keywords: Miami RedHawks, UMass, MAC Tournament, NCAA Tournament, upset, undefeated, Akron Zips, Auburn, Selection Sunday, college basketball

Full Story