Full Breakdown
Miami Men's Basketball Welcomes Five High School Recruits for 2025-26 Season
8/29/2025, 2:57:44 PM
Roster Changes and Recruitment Strategy
As college athletics face increasing roster turnover, Miami University’s men's basketball program is adapting its recruitment strategy for the upcoming 2025-26 season. With key players like Kam Craft, Mekhi Cooper, and Reece Potter departing through the transfer portal, the RedHawks have secured five first-year recruits to bolster their roster. Associate head coach Jonathan Holmes emphasized the importance of high school recruitment, stating, “we’re still using high school as our main source of recruitment.” This approach contrasts with higher-tier programs that often rely on one-and-done players or the transfer portal.
Profiles of Incoming Recruits
The new recruits include:
- Tyler Robbins: A 6-foot-10 power forward from Pittsburgh, Robbins averaged 13 points and 11 rebounds in his junior year and holds the record for most blocks at Upper St. Clair High School.
- LeShawn Stowers: A 6-foot-5 guard from Peoria, Illinois, Stowers chose Miami over Bradley University, citing the welcoming culture and playing style that emphasizes motion and teamwork.
- Kyle Waltz: Another Illinois recruit, Waltz graduated from York High School and attended Spire Academy, where he averaged 13 points and six rebounds last season.
- Justin Kirby: A 6-foot-4 guard from Indiana, Kirby contributed to Fishers High School’s 4A state championship victory, averaging 13.1 points in his senior year.
- Trey Perry: A local talent from Lakota East High School, Perry led the Greater Miami Conference with an average of 22.1 points per game last season.
These players are expected to integrate into the RedHawks’ system, which emphasizes development and fit over immediate star power.
Official Statements and Team Culture
Robbins expressed his excitement about joining Miami, stating, “They definitely felt like a family,” highlighting the supportive environment fostered by the coaching staff. Stowers echoed this sentiment, noting the welcoming nature of the coaches during his recruitment process. The RedHawks aim to build a cohesive team dynamic as they prepare for the season.
Upcoming Season and Expectations
The RedHawks are set to begin their season on November 3 against Old Dominion University as part of the annual MAC-SBC challenge. With four of their leading six scorers returning from a historic 2024-25 campaign, the new recruits will be pivotal in maintaining the program's momentum. Robbins anticipates a demanding summer of training, stating, “I’m expecting a lot of hard work,” as the team prepares for the challenges ahead.
Conclusion
Miami University's men's basketball program is strategically focusing on high school recruitment to navigate roster changes and build a competitive team for the 2025-26 season. With a blend of local and out-of-state talent, the RedHawks are poised to develop a strong foundation as they aim for success in the upcoming season.
