The reasoning that Jim Larranaga gave for the mid-majors being able to narrow the gap with the more powerful programs was the implementation of the NBA’s one and done rule.
In the fall of 2005 NBA Commissioner David Stern negotiated a minimum age of 19 or at least one year removed from high school to be eligible for the NBA Draft.
That meant that the best players on the traditional would be Freshman or Sophomores. Jim Larranaga has spoken openly about his preference for more experienced players. Ranked 13th to begin the season, Miami lost in the first round to Loyola who will play in the Final Four.