K-State’s Pack, a highly sought transfer, picks UM

The future of the University of Miami men’s basketball program looks bright after landing one of the nation’s top transfers and being named a finalist for another highly coveted player.

All-Big 12 guard Nijel Pack, a transfer from Kansas State, announced Saturday that he chose UM over his two other finalists, Ohio State and Purdue. He averaged 17.4 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists last season.

A 6-foot, 180-pound guard with three years of eligibility remaining, Pack is rated the second-best player in the transfer portal by ESPN and The Athletic, as well as thirdbest by 247Sports.

“He is truly one of the finest players in the country, as well as an excellent young man with an elite work ethic who loves basketball,” coach Jim Larrañaga said. “Nijel is not only a high-level scorer with elite shooting abilities, but also a superb playmaker and defender.”

Pack, an Indianapolis native, shot 45.5 percent from the floor, including 43.6 percent beyond the arc, and 84.5 percent at the line.

“I’m on to the next chapter in my career,” he wrote on Instagram. “I want to thank Coach Jim

Larranaga for this opportunity. As a sports fan,

I’ve seen the power of THE U and the passion of this fan base. It’s a privilege to help lead this team this coming season! I’m going to `THE U’ ”

Larrañaga, known for success with transfers, was looking to replace Charlie Moore, Sam Waardenburg and Kam McGusty, all of whom are departing after leading the Canes to the Elite Eight. Pack should be able to step right into the starting lineup.

Miami also is a finalist for Arkansas State forward Norchad Omier, a native of Nicaragua who attended Miami Prep school.

Omier’s final four are UM, Florida State, Texas Tech and Georgetown. He is expected to announce after visiting Georgetown late this week.

In other news, Larrañaga hired Charlotte’s Kotie Kimble to be his third assistant, multiple sources confirmed. An announcement is expected in the next few days.

Kimble fills the spot of longtime associate head coach Chris Caputo, who left to become head coach at George Washington University.

Kimble joins Bill Courtney and DJ Irving on the staff. Courtney is the senior assistant and offensive coordinator, so it is possible he will be promoted to associate.