A highly touted 6’5 guard from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was among the top prospects in the 2025 College Basketball recruiting class. As a consensus 5-star recruit and an early projected first-round NBA Draft pick, both he and the Miami Hurricanes entered the season with high expectations.
Unfortunately, the season did not unfold as hoped for either party. Miami ended up at the bottom of the ACC standings, ranking among the most disappointing teams in the nation. Meanwhile, he struggled to find his rhythm early on, with limited playing time and production preventing him from displaying the elite potential he was known for.
By season’s end, Bethea averaged 7.1 points per game while shooting 37% from the field and 33% from beyond the arc in less than 20 minutes per game. Despite the challenges, he had a few standout performances, including a 17-point effort in an overtime win against Mount St. Mary’s and a season-best 21 points, six rebounds, and four assists in a victory over Syracuse.
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Midway through the season, Coach Jim Larranaga announced his retirement. While the transfer portal had already opened for Miami players, it will be available to all athletes starting Monday.
With a new coaching staff coming in, led by former Duke assistant Jai Lucas, it’s understandable that players, including Jalil Bethea, may explore other opportunities.
Bethea’s situation is particularly intriguing since his recruitment reportedly came down to Miami and Villanova—two hometown choices. However, with Villanova recently parting ways with Coach Kyle Neptune, the program is now in transition. Depending on their next hire, Villanova could become a more attractive option for Bethea, though he also has the choice to remain at Miami.
While Bethea didn’t emerge as a “one-and-done” NBA Draft prospect, he still has three years of eligibility remaining and plenty of untapped potential. Whichever program lands him next could be getting a hidden gem. Stay tuned for updates on his recruitment.
