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2mo ago

Jai Lucas Named Miami Head Coach as Departure from Duke Raises Eyebrows

Lucas, a key recruiter and defensive strategist for Duke, exits before postseason to lead struggling Hurricanes program.

Duke associate head coach Jai Lucas gestures during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game against Miami, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, in Coral Gables, Fla. He was named Miami's head coach on Thursday.
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Overview

  • Jai Lucas, 36, has been officially named the new head men's basketball coach at the University of Miami, leaving his role as Duke's associate head coach.
  • Lucas is widely regarded as an elite recruiter, having secured top recruiting classes for both Duke and Kentucky, and is known for his defensive coaching expertise.
  • The timing of Lucas' departure, just days before Duke's postseason begins, has drawn criticism and surprise given the team's strong national title prospects this year.
  • Miami, with a 6-24 record this season, is betting on Lucas' recruiting prowess and coaching potential to rebuild its struggling basketball program.
  • Lucas will be formally introduced at a press conference on Monday, succeeding Jim Larrañaga, Miami's all-time winningest coach, who retired in late 2024.