Miami basketball has added another frontcourt option late in the offseason, signing former LSU forward Robert Miller III.
Miller spent two seasons with the Tigers and appeared in 63 games. The 6-foot-10 Houston native averaged 6.1 points and 3.9 rebounds during his sophomore campaign while shooting 65.7% from the field. He entered the transfer portal April 10 and later chose Miami after also drawing interest from Arkansas.
His addition gives coach Jai Lucas another experienced interior player entering his second season with the Hurricanes.
Miller brings size, finishing ability and defensive potential. His field-goal percentage reflects his effectiveness around the rim, while his length allows him to challenge shots and rebound outside his immediate area. Reports also credited him with 1.4 blocks per game last season.
Miami does not need Miller to carry the offense. The Hurricanes need him to defend, rebound, run the floor and convert opportunities created by their guards.
That role could fit his skill set.
Miller joined LSU as a four-star prospect from Pasadena Memorial High School near Houston. He ranked No. 81 nationally and No. 13 among power forwards in the 247Sports rankings for the 2024 class. Scouts praised his ability to handle the ball, shoot off the catch and protect the rim at his size.
His consistency will determine his place in Lucas’ rotation.
Miami has rebuilt much of its roster through high school recruiting, international additions and the transfer portal. The Hurricanes’ offseason newcomers include Georgia transfer Somto Cyril, Michigan transfer LJ Cason, Saint Peter’s transfer Brent Bland, Indiana transfer Nick Dorn and Robert Morris transfer DeSean Goode. Five-star forward Caleb Gaskins also joined the program.
That depth should create competition across the frontcourt.
Cyril supplies shot-blocking and physical strength. Russian center Egor Ryzhov adds size. Gaskins offers long-term upside and positional versatility. Miller gives Lucas another player with major-conference experience and two college seasons behind him.
The timing also matters. Most teams completed their major portal work months ago, which limited Miami’s options for another proven big man. Miller ranked among the better unsigned frontcourt players available and had previously visited Miami in April.
His signing completes another aggressive roster reconstruction for Lucas.
Miami exceeded expectations during Lucas’ first season and now faces the challenge of building sustainable success. Frontcourt depth often separates competitive ACC teams from programs that struggle through the conference schedule.
Miller will not generate the attention that follows a five-star freshman or a high-scoring guard. His value could emerge through screens, rebounds, blocked shots and efficient finishes.
Those contributions could help Miami take another step under Lucas.
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