Larkin, Scott Tabbed ACC All-Defensive Team

CORAL GABLES, Fla. – University of Miami guards Shane Larkin and Durand Scott were selected to the ACC’s All-Defensive Team, as determined by the Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association (ACSMA). 

"The old adage that defense wins championships is very, very true," said Coach Jim Larranaga. "In order to have a great defensive team, you need great individual players as well as great team defense. We have two of the best in Durand Scott and Shane Larkin. They're a great combination because they can guard all different kinds of players. We've had great success at the defensive end of the floor this year because they are our catalysts. The defense starts at the guard position and those are two of the best guards in the country."

Larkin, whose 32 steals in ACC games leads the league, appeared on 46 of 77 ballots cast by ACSMA members, the most for any player. The team leader in steals with 59, Larkin recorded a steal in 26 games this season, including 20 straight games from Nov. 13 through Feb. 5. The sophomore started 29 of Miami’s 30 games, missing the start on Senior Day so that the Hurricanes could honor their five seniors. 

Scott, who is considered Miami’s best on-ball defender, used his 6-foot-5 frame to lock down guards and wings all season. The Bronx, N.Y., native tied for second in steals in ACC games, notching at least one steal in 22 of his 27 games this season and collecting multiple steals in 15 games this year. In 27 games, Scott collected 44 total steals and three blocks, while averaging 12.9 points per game. 

Larkin and Scott helped guide the Hurricanes to a 24-6 record that ended in the school’s first ACC regular season title in program history. They also helped the Canes finish 15-3 in the ACC and 14-1 at home, both Miami records.

Joining Larkin and Scott on the ACC All-Defensive Team were Georgia Tech’s Daniel Miller, Maryland’s Alex Len and Virginia’s Jontel Evans.