Miami Hurricanes Open Jai Lucas Era with 86-69 Win over Jacksonville

The Miami Hurricanes basketball team, under new head coach Jai Lucas, opened their season with an 86-69 victory over Jacksonville, marking Lucas's first career win as a head coach. The team showcased a strong defensive effort and a physical, defensive-minded style, with all five starters scoring in double figures, including Malik Reneau who led with 20 points and Ernest Udeh Jr. contributing a double-double. Freshman Shelton Henderson and guard Tru Washington also made significant impacts, with Henderson scoring 15 points despite early foul trouble and Washington excelling on defense with multiple steals. The Hurricanes displayed resilience and chemistry, qualities highlighted by Udeh, and demonstrated an improved paint attack and solid ball screen coverage, despite some defensive struggles. This game symbolized a fresh start after the retirement of legendary coach Jim Larrañaga, with an entirely overhauled roster and a renewed team identity beginning to take shape. Fans and players alike expressed optimism about the direction under Lucas's leadership as the season begins.