Miami Lands Five-Star recruit Caleb Gaskins, Signaling New Era Under Coach Lucas
Coral Gables, FL – October 30, 2025 – In a significant advancement for the University of Miami’s men’s basketball program, five-star forward Caleb Gaskins has announced his commitment to the Hurricanes. The proclamation, made on Thursday, marks the first commitment of a five-star player for first-year head coach Jai Lucas.
A Highly Sought-After Prospect Chooses Miami
Gaskins made his decision after carefully considering offers from florida and Texas A&M, having taken official visits to each institution. The talented forward ultimately chose Miami, citing a strong connection with the campus environment and the coaching staff. He emphasized the welcoming atmosphere and the positive impact of his academic meetings.
“Miami was my first visit, and I initially felt some nerves,” gaskins stated. “Though,everyone on campus extended a warm welcome. My academic discussions were productive, and the overall environment felt like the right fit for me. Being a family-oriented person, I appreciated the close-knit community at Miami.”
The Influence of Coach Lucas and a Familiar Face
Lucas prioritized Gaskins immediately after assuming his role as head coach. This commitment gained even more momentum when Andrew Moran, Gaskins’ former high school coach, joined the Miami coaching staff. This existing relationship provided a significant level of comfort and trust for the rising star.
“Coach Lucas reached out to me as soon as he accepted the position,” Gaskins explained. “He is a genuine and trustworthy individual, both personally and as a coach. I believe this decision is the best path for my development. The entire staff dedicated time to understanding my game and outlining a plan for my strengths and areas for betterment.”
Gaskins’ Profile: A Rising Star
Hailing from Florida,the 6-foot-8 forward previously played alongside notable prospects Cameron Boozer and Cayden Boozer at Christopher Columbus High School,where he helped lead his team to a state championship. Currently ranked No.16 in the SC Next 100 for the class of 2026, Gaskins is considered the No. 5 power forward and No. 3 player from the state of Florida.
Scouts and analysts highlight Gaskins’ significant improvements in his three-point shooting, complementing his existing ability to score inside and convert mid-range shots. His skillset is rounded out by excellent footwork, a strong frame, and a 7-1 wingspan. He consistently demonstrates a growing understanding of the game, evident in his improved decision-making.
During the Nike EYBL circuit last spring, Gaskins averaged 15.7 points and 7.3 rebounds over 15 games with the Nightrydas elite. He elevated his performance at the Peach Jam in July, averaging 20.0 points and 10.2 rebounds in five games, while also showcasing his shooting range with five three-pointers.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Ranking (SC Next 100) | #16 |
| Position Ranking (Power Forward) | #5 |
| State Ranking (Florida) | #3 |
| EYBL average (Points) | 15.7 |
| Peach Jam Average (Points) | 20.0 |
Lucas’s proven ability to identify and recruit top talent, honed during his tenures at Duke, kentucky, and Texas, is now bearing fruit. Prior to Gaskins’ commitment, Lucas secured commitments from Shelton Henderson and Dante Allen, while also actively bolstering the roster through the transfer portal.
Did you know? The recruitment of Caleb Gaskins underscores the growing importance of established relationships between players and coaches in today’s college basketball landscape.
Pro Tip: When evaluating college basketball recruits, look beyond the rankings and pay attention to how a player’s skills and personality align with a team’s culture.
Gaskins represents the first commitment to Miami’s 2026 class,setting a strong foundation for the program’s future.
The Evolving Landscape of College Basketball Recruiting
The recruitment of high-profile players like Caleb Gaskins highlights the increasing competitiveness of college basketball recruiting. The emphasis on building strong relationships,showcasing a clear development plan,and aligning with a player’s values are all crucial components of a triumphant recruiting strategy. The rise of the transfer portal also adds another layer of complexity, requiring coaches to balance bringing in fresh talent with retaining key players.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caleb Gaskins
- What position does Caleb Gaskins play? gaskins is a versatile forward, capable of playing multiple positions on the court.
- Where is Caleb Gaskins ranked in his class? He is currently ranked No. 16 in the SC Next 100 for the class of 2026.
- What other schools was Caleb Gaskins considering? He seriously considered offers from Florida and Texas A&M before committing to Miami.
- What are Caleb Gaskins’ strengths as a player? He is known for his improved shooting, strong footwork, and versatile scoring ability.
- Why did Caleb Gaskins choose Miami? He cited the welcoming campus environment, the coaching staff, and the school’s close-knit community as key factors.
What are your expectations for Caleb Gaskins at Miami? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
