On Dec. 26, 2024, the University of Miami Men’s Basketball coach Jim Larrañaga stepped down from his position. Known by his nickname, Coach L, since 2011, he has played an integral role in the UM Men’s Basketball program. For me personally, Coach L has played a huge part in my life as a fan, and most recently as a media member.
In 2022, the UM men’s basketball team made it to the Elite Eight of the March Madness National Collegiate Athletics Association basketball tournament. I have fond memories of watching this team in my first year of college basketball fandom. That same year, over the summer, I went to the Jim Larrañaga Basketball Camp, where I really became enamored with the team. From meeting the players to meeting Coach L himself, my experience at camp was incredible and made me want to go back the next year.
Then, in 2023, after an amazing year winning the Atlantic Coast Conference and making it to the Final Four of the NCAA tournament, the team was returning home after the season. My dad and I waited for the team to arrive at the UM basketball facility and when they did, my love for the team increased exponentially. I took pictures with all of the players I could, as well as Coach L.
At camp that summer, with a new wave of players, came a new wave of people to meet. I became friends with most of the new guys, and I had another great experience at camp. The next season was rougher for the team, losing their last 10 games straight. Over the summer, after my first year on The Panther, I had my first conversations with Coach L at camp. He told me I had full permission to write a story about the team.
I took that opportunity from a media standpoint and did two pieces about the team, one photo gallery and one sports commentary. Both times at UM I was recognized by players and staff.
When the 2024 season began, I was invited to have the amazing opportunity of attending media day for the team. The weekend before, my dad participated in a UM adult basketball camp. He brought me along to take pictures and make connections. During the camp, I spoke with Coach L a few times, where he said at one point that he wanted me to ask him a question. I get into my media day experience more in the aforementioned sports commentary piece.
Coach L specifically was always helpful to me and anyone else. His assistance really gave me confidence and helped me jumpstart my young media career.
From my memories as a fan to my recent memories as a journalist, Coach L has always been an important and positive influence in Miami. From dancing in the locker room with the team to meeting each and every little kid, he has made an impact.
So, to Coach L, thank you for everything. From the Final Four two years ago, to media day in October, you have been a very important part of my life, believe it or not. Coach L will go down in not only the Miami history books, but also the national history books as one of the best college men’s basketball coaches. From every University of Miami fan, media member, to even those who only knew of him, thank you.
