Miami Hurricanes Basketball Player Breakdown: Matthew Cleveland

With the departures of Isaiah Wong and Jordan Miller to the NBA to go with several players transferring out of Miami, Miami Hurricanes fans were expecting Coach Jim Larrañaga to be extremely active in the transfer portal. However the Hurricanes only landed one player, but one that will surely make an impact.

Former five-star recruit Matthew Cleveland comes over from Florida State to provide some much needed help on the wing. Cleveland took a big step up from his freshmen year to his sophomore season, and looks to continue to climb the rankings.

2022-23 Season Stats:

13.8 PPG, 7.4 RPG, 1.8 APG, 0.8 BPG, 0.8 SPG, 35% 3PT

Storyline for the Season:

The storyline for Cleveland is simple, can he fill the void left by Miller and Wong while becoming one of the best all-around wings in the conference. Just by the eye test, it's clear that Cleveland has the tools at his disposal to do so. Most Miami fans will remember Cleveland for his clutch shot to put an end to the home win streak at Watsco Center last season, so the hope is he can continue to shine in those moments.

Matthew Cleveland, Miami—Mostly off-ball scoring wing who uses 6-7 size, movement, athletic fluidity for slashing, cutting, finishing. Coast-to-coast threat, covers ground fast handling ball in open floor. Mid-range shotmaker with high release. Flashes of live-dribble passing.… pic.twitter.com/jaawovlzju
— Jonathan Wasserman (@NBADraftWass) September 21, 2023

Defensively is where Cleveland can really shine for the Hurricanes. His active hands and length allows for him to cover players from the wing to the post. Miami's offense has always been a strength, so if Cleveland can become an elite defender for the Hurricanes it can make a big difference come March.

Expectations for Next Season:

Cleveland's top goal should be to become a better shooter, especially with the offense we've seen Coach Larrañaga run while at Miami. It's uncertain the degree that Norchad Omier has improved from behind the arc, so Cleveland being below average from range would be a problem to the team.

Additionally, Cleveland should be able to become one of the best two-way players in the nation not just the conference. He'll be surrounded by better players and coaching that can further unlock his potential.

Prediction: Cleveland earns All-ACC honors while becoming one of the most impactful two-way wings in the country. He'll end the season projected as a late first/early second round prospect and declare for the 2024 NBA Draft.

Miami Hurricanes 2023-24 Basketball Schedule

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