PLAYERS TO WATCH

MIAMI: NORCHAD OMIER

A right ankle injury suffered in the ACC tournament has not been a problem for Omier, a 6-foot-7 forward who has been a terror on the boards with 31 rebounds in two NCAA Tournament games. He had 14 against Drake, a school-record for a tournament game, and topped the mark with 17 against Indiana. Omier gives the Hurricanes an inside presence in what has traditionally been a guard-focused, small-ball lineup.

HOUSTON: MARCUS SASSER

If the Cougars expect to advance, they will need another big performance from the All-American senior guard. Sasser had 22 points in a second-round win over Auburn despite foul trouble and a groin injury. He said earlier this week he expects to be “at least 90 percent” for Friday’s game.

WHY MIAMI WILL WIN

The Hurricanes are the best offensive team the Cougars have faced this season, averaging 79.1 points per game and shooting 48.1 percent from the floor. The Hurricanes like to push the tempo and get opportunities in transition. Can the Cougars hang with Miami’s offense for a full 40 minutes?

WHY HOUSTON WILL WIN

The Cougars looked vulnerable early against Northern Kentucky and Auburn but always seems to rise in critical moments. UH is tough and physical inside, among the best at guarding the perimeter and one of the most balanced teams in the country. There’s a reason only one team scored above its season scoring average against the Cougars.

BONUS STAT

Miami has scored at least 70 points in 27 games this season. UH, which allows the fewest points in the nation at 56, is 2-2 when allowing 70 or more points.