As Jai Lucas assembles his inaugural coaching staff at the University of Miami, one notable candidate is Nick Friedman, an NBA assistant coach with a history in player development and a strong connection to Miami basketball.
Friedman began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at the University of Miami during the 2015-2016 season, contributing to the Hurricanes' run to the Sweet 16. Following his stint with Miami, he honed his coaching skills in the NBA G League, serving with teams such as the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, Maine Red Claws, and Northern Arizona Suns.
Friedman joined the Charlotte Hornets as a player development coach in 2019 and was promoted to assistant coach in 2021, focusing on player development and helping with game planning. Beyond the NBA, he has served as the associate head coach for the Haitian National Team, showcasing a commitment to international basketball development.
Friedman's potential return to the University of Miami under Lucas brings his career full circle. His previous tenure at Miami and his NBA connections could help recruiting efforts by attracting high-caliber prospects eager to develop under a coaching staff with NBA experience. Recruiting has been Lucas' strength as he was in charge of the recruitment for Cooper Flagg and the Boozer twins at Duke.
Lucas mentioned in his introductory press conference that the program is expecting 13 transfers so it is safe to expect most of the roster will be made up of program newcomers. Players will be able to enter the transfer portal on March 24, which is the day after the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament is completed.
As Lucas molds his coaching staff, Friedman's name stands out with his reputation as a developer of talent. His addition could significantly help Miami's basketball program as they try to turn things around after one of the worst seasons in program history.