College basketball’s transfer portal has delivered a perfect match as former Indiana forward Malik Reneau announced his commitment to the Miami Hurricanes on April 2, 2025. The Hialeah, Florida native made his decision public via Instagram with a simple yet powerful message “I’M COMING HOME 💚🧡 IT’S ALL ABOUT THE U.”
After three productive seasons with the Hoosiers, Reneau ranked as the No. 16 overall transfer in the portal. He chose Miami over Arkansas, Auburn, Michigan, and USC. His decision comes just weeks after entering the transfer portal following Indiana’s disappointing 2024-2025 campaign and the departure of head coach Mike Woodson.
Reneau Brings Big Ten Experience to Hurricanes’ Frontcourt
The 6’9″, 233 pounds power forward arrives at Miami with an impressive resume from his time in Bloomington. Reneau averaged 13.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game during his junior season shooting an efficient 55.2% from the field despite battling a knee injury that sidelined him for five games.
View this post on Instagram
His sophomore campaign was even more impressive, with averages of 15.4 points and 6.0 rebounds per game, earning him All-Big Ten honorable mention honors. Reneau’s skilled post-play, footwork, and ability to facilitate from the high post should immediately bolster a Miami frontcourt in desperate need of talent.
Lucas Lands First Major Recruit as Hurricanes’ Head Coach
For newly appointed Miami head coach Jai Lucas, Reneau’s commitment represents a significant early victory in the program’s rebuilding effort. Lucas, who was hired on March 5 after Jim Larranaga’s retirement, inherits a team that struggled to a dismal 7-24 record last season while winning just three conference games.
“We need a big overhaul” Lucas acknowledged shortly after his hiring and Reneau’s addition delivers precisely that promise. The 36 years old coach leveraged his recruiting expertise from stints at Duke and Kentucky to secure Reneau within weeks of his entry into the transfer portal.
Malik’s decision makes perfect sense beyond basketball reasons. His Miami roots run deep as noted by social media commentary highlighting the connection “Malik to Miami just makes tons of sense. From Miami, and HS coach will be at Miami.”
The former Montverde Academy standout represents exactly what the Hurricanes need that is experienced production, leadership and versatility. Having averaged over 11 points and 5 rebounds across his college career Reneau brings a proven skill set to a roster that saw most scholarship players enter the transfer portal after last season’s disappointment.
KEEP READING: Top 10 NIL Deals in Men’s College Basketball
Reneau’s addition could accelerate Miami’s rebuild following their disappointing 7-24 season, potentially returning the program to ACC relevance just two years after their 2023 Final Four run.
As Lucas continues rebuilding the roster, Reneau’s presence as a cornerstone piece might just accelerate the Hurricanes’ return to ACC relevance in the 2025-26 season.
Don’t miss a moment of March Madness! Download your 2025 NCAA Tournament printable bracket and stay on top of every game, matchup, and Cinderella story. Get yours now!
