Miami transfer Tru Washington gives Xavier a major backcourt boost

Miami Hurricanes transfer Tru Washington has committed to the Xavier Musketeers. It is a notable pickup for Richard Pitino's program because Washington leaves Coral Gables after emerging as one of Miami's best perimeter defenders and a steady secondary scorer during Jai Lucas' first season.

Xavier adds one of Miami's top returning rotation guards

Washington averaged 11.9 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.8 steals in 27.5 minutes per game last season while starting 19 of Miami's 31 games. He shot 44.3% from the field and 35.2% from 3-point range. He also led the Hurricanes with 56 steals.

Washington had some winning moments in Coral Gables. He hit the game-winning free throws in Miami's comeback win at NC State, scored 17 off the bench in the ACC tournament win over Louisville, posted an 18-point, 10-rebound game against Elon, and had a season-high four steals in a road win at Florida State.

Washington entered the portal earlier this week after one season at Miami, and his move to Xavier continues the Hurricanes' ongoing roster reshaping this offseason. Before arriving in Coral Gables, he opened his college career at New Mexico, where he played for Pitino in 2023-24. ESPN ranked Washington No. 88 nationally coming out of high school in the 2023 class.

A reunion could be positive for Washington as he puts himself in good position for his senior year. Xavier, just like Miami, is also looking to replace production that is leaving in the portal.

At New Mexico in 2023-24, Washington averaged 6.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.4 steals per game in 35 games. In 2024-25, he averaged 11.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 2.1 steals per game in 34 games and 33 starts. His career averages sit at 9.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.8 steals per game.