Travis Steele, head coach of Miami (OH) men’s basketball team, has publicly invited Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow to attend one of the RedHawks’ games this season. The appeal comes as Miami (OH) remains the only undefeated team in men’s college basketball, generating growing attention as they prepare for postseason play.
The RedHawks recently capped an undefeated regular season with a 110-108 victory over the Ohio Bobcats, completing a spotless 31-0 record. Miami (OH)’s surge has sparked debate about their potential participation in the forthcoming NCAA Tournament.
Steele Calls on Burrow to Join RedHawks’ Season Celebration
During a Sunday guest appearance on Cincinnati’s Sports Show, Coach Steele extended a heartfelt request for Joe Burrow to experience the excitement surrounding Miami (OH)’s standout campaign firsthand. Steele emphasized the invitation towards upcoming games, whether during the MAC Tournament in Cleveland or potentially the NCAA Tournament if the RedHawks advance.
“Hey, Joe Burrow, we need you at our game,”
Steele said.
Cleveland, MAC Tournament, or if you want to make it to the NCAA Tournament, wherever that might be, don’t know the location. Hopefully it’s a warm location, got a beach as well if we’re lucky. We’d love to see you come to one of our games and support.
The RedHawks have already attracted prominent local sports figures; Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett was present at their commanding 91-77 win over the Bowling Green Falcons on February 20, taking photos with the team at Millett Hall.
Miami (OH) Athletic Director Advocates for NCAA Tournament Inclusion
Miami (OH)’s unbeaten season has driven a discussion on whether their record merits direct qualification for the NCAA Tournament. Critics point to the RedHawks’ comparatively low strength of schedule, ranked 285th out of 365 by KenPom, and the nature of their wins. The team lacks Quad 1 victories, has just one Quad 2 win, accumulated sixteen victories in Quad 4 matchups, and played three contests against non-Division I opponents.
Despite this, Miami (OH) athletic director David Sayler made a strong case for their inclusion in the NCAA Tournament during a Saturday interview with USA TODAY, citing the rarity and significance of an undefeated season.
“An undefeated season, it has to matter, right?”
Sayler argued.
Otherwise, why wouldn’t we just play three days in (the MAC tournament) and the winner goes to the (NCAA) tournament and forget the regular season if you’re not going to take an undefeated team. It should cement it.
“It’s disappointing that more people across the country can’t just enjoy a good story. They’re on the verge of a historic thing here, and all people try to do is tear them down.”
Historic Achievement Raises Expectations and Challenges
Under Steele’s leadership, Miami (OH) has become only the fifth team this century to complete an unblemished regular season, a feat last seen with the Gonzaga Bulldogs in 2020-2021. Historically, since the NCAA Tournament’s expansion 41 years ago, no team with more than 28 wins has been excluded from the tournament field. This precedent strengthens the RedHawks’ argument for entry despite concerns about their strength of schedule.
The undefeated campaign has heightened anticipation among fans and analysts, who are closely monitoring how the tournament selection committee will weigh Miami (OH)’s impressive record against the quality of their opponents.
Broader College Basketball Context and Reactions
The 31-0 RedHawks’ run adds to a vibrant college basketball landscape this season, which recently included notable events such as No. 3 Michigan’s victory over No. 8 Michigan State—a contest praised nationally as
“Another Double-Digit No-Sweat Rivalry Game Victory.”
Meanwhile, questions remain around key players’ availability in other teams, including an update on Duke center Patrick Ngongba II’s injury status as March Madness approaches.
Miami (OH)’s pursuit of glory and recognition continues amid these storylines, placing their momentum under both hopeful and critical scrutiny.
"Joe Burrow, we need you at our game."
Travis Steele LOVED having Myles Garrett speak to his team this season, but he's a #Bengals fan.
We asked Travis to make his pitch tonight. Maybe his buddy Zac Taylor could help him out. @FOX19 @MiamiOH_BBall @CoachSteeleMU pic.twitter.com/5N9KoCJhie
— Jeremy Rauch (@FOX19Jeremy) March 9, 2026
