Jim Larranaga Retires Due to Changing College Landscape

Jim Larranaga, the 75-year-old head coach of the Miami Hurricanes, has announced his immediate retirement, concluding a 14-year tenure at Miami and a 41-year college coaching career. Citing exhaustion and frustration with the evolving landscape of college basketball, particularly the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era and the transfer portal, Larranaga joins other notable coaches like Tony Bennett and Jay Wright in stepping down. Bill Courtney, a longtime friend and assistant coach, will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Under Larranaga, Miami reached remarkable heights, including a Final Four appearance in 2023, but the program has struggled this season with a 4-8 record. Larranaga expressed concerns about the professionalization of college sports and the impact of NIL deals, which led to significant player turnover despite a successful season. The University of Miami will conduct a national search for a permanent head coach while Larranaga plans to spend more time with his family.