College basketball icon Dick Vitale is lending his signature enthusiasm to the University of Miami's men's basketball program, praising new head coach Jai Lucas for his big-time rebuild in Coral Gables.
After a disappointing 2024–25 season that ended with a 7–24 record and the retirement of Hall of Fame coach Jim Larranaga, the Hurricanes were in dire need of a reset. Enter Jai Lucas, one of the sport’s top young coaching minds and a proven recruiter from his time at Kentucky and Duke. And according to Vitale, Lucas will do a fantastic job.
Jai Lucas will do a fantastic job with @CanesHoops - has great communication skills- really connects with players.
— Dick Vitale (@DickieV) April 22, 2025
Miami's transfer portal haul has generated major buzz. Headlining the list of newcomers is former TCU big man Ernest Udeh Jr., a rim-protecting force who adds size and defensive presence to the Hurricanes frontcourt. He's joined by Indiana forward Malik Reneau, Michigan point guard Tre Donaldson, and New Mexico’s Tru Washington — each expected to compete for starting roles immediately.
The Hurricanes also landed former Missouri wing Marcus Allen, a Miami native returning home, and added promising freshman recruits such as Dante Allen and Slovakian forward Timotej Malovec. With these additions, Miami has transformed a roster of 0 players into one of the most intriguing in the ACC.
Lucas has also assembled an experienced coaching staff that includes former Missouri associate head coach Charlton “C.Y.” Young and special assistant Riley Welch, a former Kentucky walk-on and G League assistant. Young may have contributed to Allen's commitment from their connection at Missouri. Miami also hired Zack Zillner, a respected strength coach from Texas, to lead the sports performance program.
Miami is not expected to be a preseason Top 25 team, but analysts believe they could be a sleeper pick in the ACC. And if Vitale’s prediction holds true, the Canes could return to relevance sooner than many expected.