A Busy Sunday for University of Miami Basketball
University of Miami basketball coach Jai Lucas had a very eventful Sunday. The day was filled with exciting developments that could significantly impact the future of the program. One of the highlights of the day was Lucas throwing out the first pitch at the Marlins vs. Milwaukee Brewers game, showing his support for local sports teams. However, the most significant news came from a different arena altogether.
DeSean Goode’s Transfer to Miami
Horizon Player of the Year DeSean Goode, a 6-foot-8 power forward from Robert Morris, made an important announcement on Sunday. He revealed that he is transferring to the University of Miami. Goode had an impressive season last year, averaging 15.2 points and 8.7 rebounds per game. His shooting percentages were equally impressive, as he shot 62.9 percent from the field and 57 percent from three-point range.
Before joining Robert Morris, Goode played one season at IU-Indy. During his time at Robert Morris, he had the opportunity to visit several top programs, including Kansas, Louisville, and St. Johns. He was also in talks with N.C. State, Kentucky, and Oklahoma. Goode is the third player from the 2026 transfer portal to join the Hurricanes, signaling a strong move by the program to bolster its roster.
Acaden Lewis Joins the Hurricanes
In addition to Goode, another key addition to the team is Acaden Lewis, a guard from Villanova. Lewis, who is considered one of the most sought-after players in the transfer portal, committed to UM last Tuesday. The Washington, D.C., native played a crucial role in leading the Wildcats to the NCAA Tournament as a freshman.
Lewis averaged 12.2 points, 5.3 assists, and 1.9 steals per game during his freshman season. He was named to the Big East All-Freshman team and the All-Big East Second Team. His performance was so impressive that he broke a 41-year-old freshman record for assists with 176 and also set a school record with 63 steals as a freshman.
Originally, Lewis had committed to Kentucky during high school but de-committed last April and signed with Villanova. He had taken an official visit to Miami after Lucas was hired but ultimately chose to go to Villanova.
Somto Cyril Makes a Big Move
Another significant addition to the Hurricanes is Somto Cyril, a 6-foot-11, 260-pound center from Georgia. Cyril, a native of Nigeria, was one of the most coveted big men in the transfer portal. He started 32 of 33 games, averaging 9.3 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. Cyril led the SEC with 2.24 blocks per game (74 total blocks) and shot 76 percent from the field. He was also named to the SEC All-Defense Team.
Returning Players and Strong Foundation
Shelton Henderson and Dante Allen, two freshmen who made a big impact last season, have announced they are returning to Miami for their sophomore seasons. Their return adds depth and experience to the team. With Henderson and Allen back, along with the additions of Lewis, Cyril, Goode, and five-star recruit Caleb Gaskins from Columbus High School, Coach Jai Lucas has a talented core to build around.
Key Players Leaving the Program
Several UM players have entered the transfer portal, including Tru Washington, who is headed to Xavier. Other players leaving the program include Timo Malovec, Salih Altunas, Jordyn Kee, Noam Dovrat, and Treyvon Maddox. These moves highlight the dynamic nature of college basketball and the constant reshaping of rosters.
A Promising Future
Under the leadership of 37-year-old first-year coach Jai Lucas, the Hurricanes achieved remarkable success this season. They tied an NCAA record for the largest victory turnaround in Division I history, going from 7-24 last year to 26-9 this season. The team moved from last place in the ACC to third in the ACC and reached the Round-of-32 of the NCAA Tournament.
With a strong foundation of returning players and new transfers, the University of Miami basketball program is poised for continued success under Coach Lucas.
