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Miami's Tru Washington Leads Late Comeback Against NC State
Washington's clutch performance helps Miami extend winning streak ahead of matchup with Virginia Tech.
Published on Feb. 18, 2026
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Tru Washington, who had missed three straight games due to personal reasons, returned to the court and led a late comeback for the Miami Hurricanes in their 77-76 win over NC State on Saturday. Washington scored the final five points, including three free throws with 3.7 seconds left, to secure the victory. Miami head coach Jai Lucas expressed confidence in Washington, citing his championship pedigree from his time at New Mexico. The Hurricanes have won three straight games and boast a strong 13-2 record at home this season.
Why it matters
Washington's return is a significant boost for Miami as they prepare to host Virginia Tech in an important ACC matchup. The Hurricanes have been one of the top teams in the conference this season, led by the scoring of Malik Reneau and the all-around contributions of Tre Donaldson and Ernest Udeh Jr. Washington's late-game heroics against NC State demonstrate his ability to make winning plays, which will be crucial against a talented Virginia Tech squad.
The details
In the final seconds against NC State, Washington scored the last five points to lift Miami to a 77-76 victory. He hit three free throws with 3.7 seconds remaining to secure the win. Washington had missed the previous three games due to personal reasons but has now returned to the lineup and will look to provide a spark off the bench for the Hurricanes against Virginia Tech.
- Washington missed three straight games prior to the NC State contest.
- Miami beat NC State 77-76 on Saturday, February 17, 2026.
- Miami will host Virginia Tech on Tuesday, February 20, 2026.
The players
Tru Washington
A key reserve guard for the Miami Hurricanes who recently returned to the lineup after missing three games due to personal reasons.
Jai Lucas
The first-year head coach of the Miami Hurricanes, who expressed confidence in Washington's ability to make winning plays.
Malik Reneau
Miami's leading scorer, averaging 20.1 points per game and ranking fourth in the ACC.
Tre Donaldson
Miami's starting point guard, ranking third in the ACC with 6.0 assists per game.
Ernest Udeh Jr.
Miami's starting center, ranking second in the ACC with 9.5 rebounds per game.
What they’re saying
“You bet on people's pedigree. Tru has won two Mountain West Conference championships (at New Mexico in 2024 and 2025). He has been in big moments. He has that belief.”
— Jai Lucas, Miami Head Coach (statenews.net)
What’s next
Miami will look to continue their strong play at home when they host Virginia Tech on Tuesday, February 20, 2026. The Hurricanes will aim to extend their three-game winning streak and maintain their position near the top of the ACC standings.
The takeaway
Tru Washington's return to the lineup provides a significant boost for the Miami Hurricanes as they prepare for a crucial ACC matchup against Virginia Tech. Washington's clutch performance in the final seconds against NC State demonstrates his ability to make winning plays, which will be crucial for Miami as they look to solidify their standing in the conference.
