Duke head coach Jon Scheyer addressed reports regarding assistant coach Jai Lucas being named the next head coach. Speaking after the Blue Devils’ dominant 110-67 victory over Illinois, Scheyer said he had just learned of the reports and praised Lucas, calling him a terrific coach who is ready to lead a program.
Speculation about Lucas taking over at Miami surfaced as the Hurricanes prepared to face Virginia Tech. Lucas, who has been viewed as a future head coach since 2022, brings over a decade of experience as an assistant under respected coaches like Rick Barnes, Shaka Smart, John Calipari, and Scheyer.
If hired, Lucas would be a bold choice for Miami, as he lacks prior head coaching experience. The last time the Hurricanes hired a first-time head coach was in 2004 with Frank Haith, who compiled a 129-101 record in seven seasons before departing for Missouri.
Known for his elite recruiting abilities, Lucas played a key role in securing top talent for Duke and Kentucky, including projected 2025 No. 1 NBA Draft pick Cooper Flagg, as well as Miami-based stars Cameron and Cayden Boozer.
While Jim Larrañaga landed strong recruiting classes at Miami, Lucas could bring sustained success by consistently securing top-ranked prospects. With Miami’s commitment to NIL, its prime location, and recent success, analysts see the Hurricanes as a program on the rise.
The Hurricanes reached the Midwest Regional Final three years ago and made their first-ever Final Four appearance two seasons ago. However, Lucas would face the challenge of rebuilding the roster and assembling a coaching staff, as only five players have eligibility beyond this season.
Returning players include redshirt junior A.J. Staton-McCray, sophomore Paul Djobet, and freshmen guards Jalil Bethea, Austin Swartz, and Divine Ugochukwu. Miami also has 2025 signee Matthew Able committed. Given the roster turnover, another significant wave of transfers is expected.