Breaking: Miami Land Popular Assistant Duke Official Jai Lucas Commit Hurricanes As New Head Coach For Men’s Basketball

The University of Miami has officially appointed Jai Lucas as the new head coach of its men’s basketball team, effective March 6, 2025. Lucas, 36, transitions to Miami after a successful tenure at Duke University, where he served as associate head coach and played a pivotal role in the Blue Devils’ recent successes. citeturn0search0

Lucas’s coaching career is distinguished by his rapid ascension through the ranks of collegiate basketball. He began at his alma mater, the University of Texas, where he contributed to securing top-tier recruiting classes and developing future NBA talents such as Jarrett Allen, Mohamed Bamba, and Jaxson Hayes. His recruiting acumen continued at the University of Kentucky, where he was instrumental in bringing in five McDonald’s All-Americans, including notable players like Shaedon Sharpe and TyTy Washington. citeturn0search2

At Duke, Lucas’s impact was immediate and profound. He was central to assembling the nation’s top recruiting classes in both 2024 and 2025, securing commitments from elite prospects, including the Boozer twins, Cameron and Cayden, for the 2025 class. Beyond recruiting, Lucas served as Duke’s defensive coordinator, elevating the team’s defensive metrics to rank among the nation’s best. citeturn0search1

Lucas steps into the role vacated by Jim Larrañaga, who retired in December 2024 after a distinguished 14-season tenure with the Hurricanes. Larrañaga’s leadership culminated in six NCAA tournament appearances and a memorable Final Four run in 2023. citeturn0search1 The 2024-2025 season has been challenging for Miami, with the team currently holding a 6-22 record and facing the prospect of missing the ACC tournament for the first time in over three decades. citeturn0news13

Lucas’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to rejuvenate the Miami program. His youth, combined with a proven track record in recruiting and player development, aligns with Miami’s aspirations to compete at the highest levels of collegiate basketball. University of Miami Vice President and Director of Athletics Dan Radakovich expressed enthusiasm about Lucas’s hiring, highlighting his innovative coaching style, relentless recruiting, and commitment to excellence. citeturn0search0

Lucas himself conveyed excitement about joining the Hurricanes, emphasizing Miami’s unique blend of elite academics, a passionate fan base, and a vibrant cultural landscape. He acknowledged the rich history and potential of the program and expressed eagerness to lead Miami into a new era of competitiveness and success. citeturn0search0

The basketball community has also recognized Lucas’s readiness for a head coaching position. Duke’s head coach, Jon Scheyer, praised Lucas’s contributions to the Blue Devils, stating unequivocally that Lucas is prepared to lead his own program. citeturn0search1

Lucas will be formally introduced at a press conference scheduled for Monday, March 10, at the University of Miami’s Lakeside Auditorium. As he embarks on this new chapter, the Miami community eagerly anticipates the revitalization and future successes of its men’s basketball program under his leadership. citeturn0search0

navlistDuke’s Jai Lucas to Lead Miami Basketball Programturn0news12,turn0news13,turn0news14