Miami has their next basketball coach. On Thursday morning, former Duke assistant coach Jai Lucas was named the next head coach of the Hurricanes. Miami will be Lucas’ first head coaching job.
"We are excited to welcome Jai and his family to the Hurricane Family," director of athletics Dan Radakovich said in a statement. "Jai is an innovative coach, a relentless recruiter and proven talent developer whose knowledge and passion for the game resonated throughout the interview process. He has coached at some of college basketball's most storied programs under tremendous head coaches.”
"I am incredibly grateful and honored to be the next head coach at the University of Miami," Lucas said in a statement. "Miami has everything you need to compete at the highest level -- elite academics, a passionate fan base, and a commitment to excellence in athletics. Beyond that, the city of Miami has a rich culture and energy that makes this an incredibly special place. The history, diversity, and passion for sports here are second to none.”
Coach Lucas is the son of former NBA coach and player, John Lucas, and the younger brother John Lucas III, who also played in the NBA. He was a McDonald's All-American out of Bellaire (Texas) in 2007. He played at Florida (2007-08) before transferring to Texas (2009-11).
Lucas, 36, began his coaching career in 2016, spending his last three seasons (2022-25) at Duke after two seasons at Kentucky (2020-22) and four years at Texas (2016-20).
“It is clear that Jai understands what it takes to compete on and off the floor in this new era of college basketball and he sees the great potential at Miami. We are fortunate to have Jai join us in Coral Gables” said Radakovich.
“I look forward to building on an incredible foundation and leading this program into an exciting new era,” said Lucas. “My family and I can't wait to get to Coral Gables and get to work.”
GO CANES!
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