Jan. 28, 2000

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) – Two teams playing some of their best basketball of the season collide atMiami on Saturday afternoon when the Hurricanes play host to Kentucky.

Miami (12-7) has won three straight games, most recently a 63-49 victory atNotre Dame on Tuesday. Johnny Hemsley scored 18 points for the Hurricanes, whoheld the Fighting Irish to 32 percent shooting and seem back on track for athird straight bid to the NCAA tournament.

“This is the best I’ve seen (us play defense) all year. Every time anyonetouched the ball, there was someone in their face,” said Hurricanes forwardDwayne Wimbley. “Every time (Irish forward Troy) Murphy touched the ball,there was someone in front of him and someone behind him.”

Miami has won seven of its last nine games after a 5-5 start. Hemsley isaveraging 18.5 points but shooting only 38.5 percent from the floor and 29percent from 3-point range.

The Hurricanes are holding opponents to 64.7 points per game and 40 percentshooting. Mario Bland is contributing 13.1 points and 7.2 rebounds per game.

Kentucky (14-5) is making the final stop on a three-game road trip and haswon four straight since an overtime loss at Auburn. The Wildcats recorded a75-69 win at Georgia on Wednesday, as Tayshaun Prince scored six of his 14points in the final 3:35.

“With the game on the line, I’m willing to take the ball to the basket,”Prince said.

Jamaal Magloire added 19 points and 10 rebounds for Kentucky, which blew anine-point lead in the second half. The 6-10 center is averaging 20.3 pointsand 13.0 rebounds in his last three games, raising his season averages to 13.8points and 8.4 boards. He is shooting 50 percent from the field.

This game completes a home-and-home between the schools started last seasonat Rupp Arena, where Kentucky posted a 74-65 victory. Michael Bradley scored 19points for the Wildcats, who forced 18 turnovers and held the Hurricanes to3-for-11 shooting from 3-point range. Miami is 0-2 all-time against Kentucky.