"He will be missed tremendously": Mario Cristobal hails Jim Larrañaga’s legacy amid sudden retirement

Miami Hurricanes football team's coach, Mario Cristobal, was taken aback by the unexpected announcement of Jim Larrañaga stepping down as head basketball coach at the University of Miami.

In a press conference ahead of the Pop-Tarts Bowl, Cristobal shared his deep admiration and respect for Larrañaga.

“Man, that was a hard one. It really was,” Cristobal said on Friday. “Love and respect to him. I mean, he’s iconic. He is legendary. Certainly just put that program on his back and went to work. I mean, he will be missed tremendously.”

Cristobal expressed excitement about collaborating with Larrañaga in the future, particularly to gain insights into leadership and team-building.

“I look forward to getting with him and picking his brain on leadership and on team-building and culture, getting him over and having him in front of the guys,” Cristobal said.

“I know he always wants to be involved with the University of Miami.”

While Larrañaga’s departure is a bittersweet moment for Miami, Cristobal lightened the mood with a playful remark.

“I’m going to raid his roster for tight ends and defensive ends,” Cristobal said.

Reflecting on Larrañaga’s legacy, Cristobal lauded his impact on the school, its community and the young athletes he mentored.

“You couldn’t ask for a better human being and a better leader for a program and for young men than Coach L,” Cristobal said.

Jim Larrañaga’s retirement triggers 30-day transfer portal window for Miami players

Jim Larrañaga's decision to step down as the Hurricanes' head coach comes nearly two years after leading Miami to its first-ever Final Four appearance.

Despite his legendary career, the Hurricanes have struggled this season, opening with a 4-8 record and losing eight of their last nine games.

The abrupt timing of Larrañaga’s departure caught many off guard, with reports suggesting players learned of the news through social media.

Larrañaga’s exit has triggered a 30-day transfer portal window for Miami players, as per NCAA rules. Athletes are now eligible to enter the transfer portal starting Friday, allowing them to explore other programs.

However, eligibility rules remain strict: players who have already transferred after enrolling at a school cannot transfer again within the same academic year and compete immediately. Graduate students could transfer if they haven’t participated in games this fall, becoming eligible in the spring.

In a press conference, Larrañaga cited the evolving landscape of college sports, particularly the influence of NIL deals, as a key factor in his decision to step down.

In the 2024-25 academic year, the portal will open on Mar. 24 and close on Apr. 22, shortly after the national championship game on Apr. 7 in San Antonio. However, coaching changes, such as Larrañaga’s departure, create immediate 30-day windows for player movement.