Miami Basketball Struggles Continue as Duke Looms

MIAMI, Fla. — The Miami Hurricanes basketball team is facing a tumultuous season, with a 3-12 record and a coaching change midway through. After a promising 3-0 start, the team has struggled, losing key players to transfers and dealing with defensive woes.

Head coach Jim Larrañaga retired on Dec. 26, 2024, following a series of disappointing performances. Assistant Bill Courtney took over but has yet to secure a win, going 0-5 since assuming the role. The Hurricanes’ struggles have been compounded by the departure of standout players Norchad Omier, Wooga Poplar, Bensley Joseph, and Kyshawn George to the transfer portal.

Despite the challenges, Miami boasts a talented roster. Guards Nijel Pack and Matthew Cleveland, both transfers from Kansas State and Florida State respectively, provide a strong backcourt presence. Lynne Kidd, a solid center from Virginia Tech, and freshman Jalil Bethea, a former 5-star recruit, add depth to the team. However, the squad has struggled with defense and rebounding, ranking 16th in the ACC defensively.

Larrañaga, who retired at 75, cited the team’s defensive shortcomings and the challenges of managing a roster in the transfer portal era. “Our players aren’t particularly good individual defenders,” he said before stepping down. “It’s been a tough season.”

Meanwhile, Duke, Miami’s next opponent, is thriving with a 14-2 record. The Blue Devils feature rising stars Cooper Flagg and Khaman Maluach, along with Kon Knueppel, who has shown significant promise. However, Duke will be without key defender Maliq Brown, who injured his knee against Notre Dame, giving freshman Patrick Ngongba an opportunity to step up.

Miami’s best chance against Duke lies in their offense, which has shown flashes of potential. “It’s possible someone could really heat up and start raining threes,” said one analyst. “That could open up driving lanes and give Miami a fighting chance.”

However, Duke’s size and elite defense present a formidable challenge. The Blue Devils must guard against complacency, as Miami has little to lose and could come out playing loose and aggressive. “Miami is coming to play,” said a sports commentator. “Duke better be ready.”

The Hurricanes will face Duke on Tuesday night in what many expect to be a lopsided matchup. But with a talented roster and nothing to lose, Miami could surprise if they find their rhythm early.