Shock Move: Duke Miles Reverses Course, De-Commits from UVA Basketball Just Days After Pledging Allegiance
In a surprising and sudden turn of events, Duke Miles, the talented former Troy University guard, has de-committed from the University of Virginia’s men’s basketball program just days after initially announcing his commitment. The news has sent ripples through college basketball circles, as fans and analysts alike scramble to make sense of what prompted the abrupt change of heart.
Miles, who averaged 17.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game in the 2023–24 season, was expected to bring an immediate scoring punch and veteran leadership to Tony Bennett’s squad. His commitment was hailed as a major recruiting win for UVA, which is looking to bounce back after a disappointing season and reestablish itself as a top-tier program in the ACC. His experience and dynamic play style seemed to be a perfect fit for a team in need of backcourt firepower.
However, in a statement released via social media, Miles shared that he had reconsidered his decision and would be reopening his recruitment. “After careful thought and prayer, I’ve decided to de-commit from the University of Virginia. I want to thank Coach Bennett and the staff for the opportunity, but I believe it’s in my best interest to explore all options before making a final decision,” he wrote.
The timing of the decision has caught many by surprise, not least because of the brevity of his initial commitment. Miles had only announced his decision to join UVA a few days prior, sparking excitement among fans and optimism within the program. Now, questions abound: Was this a personal decision? A response to changing dynamics within the program? Or perhaps a result of other programs stepping in late with more appealing offers?
Recruiting in the transfer portal era has become increasingly fluid and unpredictable, with players often making quick decisions under pressure, only to reassess as new opportunities emerge. NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, shifting coaching staffs, and evolving rosters add to the complexity, making even the most solid commitments susceptible to change.
For UVA, the de-commitment stings—not just for what Miles could have contributed on the court, but also for what it suggests about the challenges of building a roster in today’s college basketball landscape. The Cavaliers now must pivot quickly to fill the void, likely turning back to the portal or banking on internal development from younger players.
As for Duke Miles, he remains one of the most coveted guards in the transfer portal, and his recruitment will no doubt continue to draw interest from high-major programs in need of a proven scorer and playmaker. Wherever he lands, one thing is clear: his decision has become a cautionary tale of how swiftly plans can change in the modern era of college hoops.
In the end, this episode underscores a new reality in college basketball—where commitment is no longer a guarantee, and change can come at the speed of a
