_”Breaking: Duke Basketball’s Jai Lucas Set to Become Miami’s Next Head Coach, Leaving Blue Devils’ Program After Three Seasons, Jon Scheyer Praises Departing Assistant as ‘Amazing Coach’”_
In a move that is set to send shockwaves through the college basketball world, Duke basketball associate head coach Jai Lucas is leaving the Blue Devils’ program to become the next head coach at the University of Miami.
Lucas, who has been a key member of Jon Scheyer’s coaching staff for the past three seasons, has agreed to take the reins at Miami, pending the completion of contract negotiations. The news was first reported by the Associated Press, and has since been confirmed by multiple sources.
Scheyer, who has worked closely with Lucas since taking over as Duke’s head coach, praised his departing assistant as an “amazing coach” who is more than ready to take the helm at Miami.
“Jai is a head coach, no question about it,” Scheyer said. “He’s been an incredible asset to our program, and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him. He’s going to do great things at Miami, and I couldn’t be happier for him.”
Lucas, who has been instrumental in helping Duke land some of the nation’s top recruits, including Cooper Flagg and the Boozer twins, is expected to bring his recruiting prowess to Miami. The Hurricanes have struggled to attract top talent in recent years, but Lucas’s arrival is seen as a major coup for the program.
Miami’s decision to hire Lucas is a clear indication that the program is committed to returning to its former glory. The Hurricanes have won just six games this season, and are currently languishing at the bottom of the ACC standings.
With Lucas at the helm, Miami fans are hoping for a major turnaround in the near future. The 36-year-old coach is seen as one of the brightest young minds in college basketball, and his hiring is a major statement of intent from the Hurricanes’ administration.
As for Duke, the loss of Lucas will undoubtedly be felt. However, Scheyer and his staff are confident that they can continue to thrive without their departing assistant.
“We’re going to miss Jai, but we’re also excited to see him achieve his dreams,” Scheyer said. “We’ll continue to work hard and push forward, and I’m confident that we’ll remain one of the top programs in the country.”
