Miami Hurricanes Men’s Basketball — 2025-26 Season Preview

Miami Hurricanes Tip-Off Against Mount Saint Marys University. Nicholas Betson/GameTime Press

As the tip-off for the new season arrives tonight, the University of Miami Hurricanes begin what promises to be a pivotal campaign. Below is a full look at where the program stands, what to watch for, and how the Hurricanes can make noise in the highly competitive Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

Season Context

The Hurricanes open the 2025-26 season on Monday, November 3 against Jacksonville Dolphins, with tip-off at 8 p.m. at the Watsco Center.

Analysts have Miami ranked among the top 30 programs in the nation heading into the season — a sign of both respect and high expectations. The program has been in a transition phase and is looking to re-establish itself as a consistent contender in the ACC.

Key Players & Leadership

Seniors such as Tre Donaldson, Malik Reneau, and Ernest Udeh Jr. are expected to provide the core experience and leadership for this year’s team. These upperclassmen will need to set the tone both on the court and in practice, especially as the Hurricanes integrate new players and look to find their rhythm early in the season.

What to Watch: Strengths & Opportunities

Strengths:

Experience: Having seniors in key roles means less of a learning curve.
Home environment: The Watsco Center remains one of the toughest venues in the ACC when the crowd is energized.

Opportunities & Questions:

Consistency: Can Miami string together wins and avoid mid-season slumps?
Depth & rotation: How well can the supporting cast step up behind the stars?
In-game adjustments: Against top ACC competition, coaching adaptability will be crucial.

Schedule & Competitive Landscape

The ACC remains one of the deepest conferences in college basketball. Every road game will be a battle, and home contests are must-wins. Non-conference matchups early in the season will provide a chance for Miami to build momentum and confidence before league play begins.

Goals for the Team

Return to the NCAA Tournament: Getting back to March Madness should be a realistic expectation.
Finish in the top half of the ACC: That would mark a strong step forward for the program.
Defend home court: A dominant record at the Watsco Center is vital for postseason hopes.
Win close games: The ability to execute late will determine how far this team can go.

Final Thoughts

With the first game tipping off tonight, this season could be a defining moment for the Hurricanes. If Miami’s senior leaders play to their potential and the younger players rise to the occasion, the Hurricanes have the pieces to surprise people and reassert themselves among the ACC’s elite. Expect high energy, exciting matchups, and a team hungry to make a statement all season long.