After a historic season, a key Miami Hurricanes guard seeks new opportunities, potentially disrupting the team's rebuilding efforts.
The Miami Hurricanes men’s basketball program wrapped up a historic season. They finished with a 26-9 overall record, 13-5 in ACC play, and reached the NCAA Tournament for the first time since coach Jim Larranaga retired. It was one of the biggest turnarounds in Division I college basketball history. However, after being officially eliminated from NCAA Tournament contention in a 79-69 loss to the Purdue Boilermakers in the Round of 32, it was back to the drawing board for coach Jai Lucas.
As guard Tre Donaldson, forward Malik Reneau, and center Ernest Udeh Jr. leave the program following career seasons, an opportunity for potential returning players to earn expanded roles presents itself. However, the offer wasn’t initially accepted by Tru Washington, who reportedly will enter the transfer portal.
As a junior, the Arizona native averaged 11.9 points on 44.3 percent shooting, 35.2 percent from three-point range, four rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.8 steals in 31 games. He joined the Hurricanes through the transfer portal after playing two seasons with the New Mexico Lobsters. The 21-year-old played a pivotal role in the turnaround, similar to Donaldson, Reneau, and Udeh Jr.
Washington was primarily a starter until halfway through the season. However, after missing three ACC matchups against the California Golden Bears, Boston College Eagles, and North Carolina Tar Heels due to personal reasons, coach Lucas had him coming off the bench, moving Dante Allen up to the starting lineup. Washington averaged 11.9 points on 44.6 percent shooting, 54.5 percent from three-point range, 4.6 rebounds, 2.1 steals, and 1.6 assists in the final seven games of the regular season. Despite the change of role, he played significant minutes among the starters.
In the Hurricanes’ short-lived NCAA Tournament appearance, Washington struggled to provide a spark in both games. He averaged 10 points on 31.6 percent shooting, 22.2 percent from three-point range, 5.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists against the Missouri Tigers and Boilermakers.
Although Washington will evaluate all options, there is still a possibility of returning to the program. He’s a tenacious defensive guard who can create and shoot from behind the arc. Whether or not Washington can be trusted as a go-to option remains to be seen.
After establishing a new foundation, culture, and standard, coach Lucas looks to continue elevating the Hurricanes basketball program. As of Sunday, Allen is the only player guaranteed to return for next season. Retaining forward Shelton Henderson will be critical throughout the offseason.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news! It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our RoundTable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!
More Miami Hurricanes News: