Hurricanes coach Jai Lucas landed one of the nation’s top 2026 recruits, and he snagged him right out of his backyard.

Five-star power forward Caleb Gaskins, a standout at Miami Columbus High, committed to Miami on Thursday afternoon. He chose the Hurricanes over offers from Alabama, Florida and Texas, among others.

“I chose Miami because – first of all — I would like to mention Jai Lucas,” Gaskins said in an interview with CBS Sports. I feel like his love for me and his willingness to recruit me as hard as he can, to show me what it would be like at the University of Miami. I feel like he definitely sold it. Next, their staff. I feel like they have an incredible staff. … This year, even with it being Jai’s first year, they’re going to do incredible things. And I’m excited for next year.”

Gaskins is listed as the No. 4 power forward and No. 16 player in the 2026 class, according to 247Sports’ composite ranking. He is the first member of Miami’s 2026 class.

Gaskins said being close to home was important to him.

“It means a lot,” Gaskins said. “I’m close to home, so there’s definitely some feeling of comfortability there. I’m just glad everybody can step right outside their doorstep and come watch me play whenever they want.”

Miami had an added boost from a member of its staff: former Columbus coach Andrew Moran, who is a Hurricanes assistant coach.

“He knows my game and he knows what’s best for me,” Gaskins said. “… I just continue to trust in him, and he continues to trust in me.”

Gaskins helped lead Columbus to a 30-3 record last year. The Explorers won their fourth straight state championship and claimed a national title with a tournament win at Chipotle Nationals.

Gaskins averaged 13.6 points and 6.3 rebounds last season.

 

https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2025/10/30/hurricanes-gaskins-commit/