The Miami Hurricanes had one of the most disappointing seasons of any program this year. They began the season with high expectations, seen as a team capable of making an impact and competing with top opponents. When Miami faced Tennessee at Madison Square Garden, many anticipated a challenging game for the Vols, but the outcome was the opposite.
Later in the season, head coach Jim Larranaga stepped down, citing the current landscape of college basketball. His departure was unexpected, regardless of the reasoning behind it.
“You have to constantly ask yourself: Are you willing to give everything—the full commitment, 100% of yourself physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually?” Larranaga said. “I’ve tried to do that throughout my career and my time here, but I’m exhausted. I’ve done everything I can to keep this going.”
Larranaga was the second head coach to retire suddenly, following Virginia’s Tony Bennett, who stepped away just before the season began.
Miami also brought in Jalil Bethea, the highest-rated recruit in program history. However, he fell short of expectations, averaging just 7.1 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game.
At season’s end, Bethea entered the transfer portal. He is a key name to watch, with the possibility of landing at Kansas, a four-time national champion.
Tomer Ronen noted that Bethea had previously considered offers from Kansas before choosing Miami and could still decide to join the Jayhawks. With head coach Bill Self and his staff actively searching for backcourt talent in the transfer portal, Kansas remains a strong possibility.
Coming off a disappointing season, Self and the Jayhawks would benefit greatly from adding and developing a player like Bethea. As the transfer process unfolds, Kansas is a team to watch closely.
