A high school janitor's advice and a unique conversation convinced this star defender to choose the Miami Hurricanes over other elite programs.
Star edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. is among the Miami Hurricanes' best defensive players. He finished last season with 54 total tackles, 30 solos and 24 assists, 15.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, a forced fumble, one pass broken up, an interception, and two passes defended, playing and starting in all 16 games. The 21-year-old proved to be a force looking to wreak havoc.
The Miami native was named an All-American, ACC Defensive Player of the Year, and the Ted Hendricks Award winner.
Despite earning the opportunity to place close to home, there was a chance that Bain Jr. would take his talents elsewhere. As a four-star recruit, he received interest and offers from the Alabama Crimson Tide, Florida State Seminoles, Auburn Tigers, and Louisville Cardinals.
Regardless of history and the idea of remaining local, Bain Jr. revealed the real reason why the Hurricanes became his next home.
"What really changed my mind to go to Miami, of course, coach [Mario] Cristobal, but I had a conversation with one of my janitors in high school," he told 305 Sports. "His name is Chris. I was leaving, I was listing all my schools, and he was telling me, 'Why not [Miami]? Why not? Think about it. The impact you can have, kids are going to love, the city is going to love it.'"
Bain Jr. revealed the conversation didn't stick initially, but it began to sink in shortly after. He confirmed not having seen the janitor since then, but believes Chris heard him tell the story.
Despite stepping into a rebuilding program, the star edge rusher became a vocal point in the process. In his final season with the Hurricanes, Bain Jr. made a major contribution to the historic National Championship run. He's projected to be an early first-round selection in the upcoming NFL Draft. Despite receiving an invitation, Bain Jr. did not participate in the Scouting Combine but met with multiple organizations, including the Kansas City Chiefs, who currently own the ninth pick.
As the Hurricanes look to remain competitive after gathering transfer portal talent, including All-ACC quarterback Darian Mensah, a new standard was successfully established.
The defense is expected to translate over to next season with defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman remaining on the staff. As Bain Jr. goes to the next level of football, edge rusher Marquise Lightfoot is expected to earn the starting role.
The Miami native left a significant and unforgettable impact on the program.
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