CORAL GABLES, Fla. – The University of Miami men’s basketball team enters the 2026-27 season ranked No. 14 in the Associated Press Preseason Poll and No. 17 in the USA Today Preseason Coaches Poll, it was announced Monday.

It marks the first preseason ranking for the Hurricanes since 2023-24 when they opened the year ranked 13th in both polls.

Under the direction of second-year head coach Jai Lucas, Miami is coming off a 26-9 campaign that included a 13-5 mark in ACC play and an appearance in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

Miami hosts No. 24/21 Vanderbilt in an exhibition contest Friday at 6 p.m. at the Watsco Center. Admission and parking are free for all spectators. Fans can take advantage of pregame photo opportunities with Sebastian the Ibis and enjoy $2 hot dogs at concession stands.

Miami students will have the opportunity to enter a special raffle for a 2001 Sean Taylor jersey and replica ring, while fans will also have the chance to win an exclusive VIP experience. The evening will conclude with postgame autograph session on the concourse.

Miami officially opens the 2026-27 regular season Monday, Nov. 2, against No. 1/1 Florida in Tampa. The game will tip at 6 p.m. and will air on ESPN2.