Canes Hoops Player Profile: F Dewan Huell

The former 5-star recruit, F Dewan Huell, will be asked to take on a bigger role and lead the Hurricanes frontcourt.

Huell, a homegrown talent from Norland High School, chose to stay put in Miami over attending top programs like Kansas and North Carolina. He now has a chance to lead one of the best teams the Hurricanes have ever had.

Huell played a complimentary role for the Hurricanes last year, averaging 17 minutes per game and chipping in 5.8 points, 3.1 rebounds and 0.8 blocks per game. With the departure of Kamari Murphey, Huell will have to step up and be the best big man for the Hurricanes.

Despite being 6’11” with a 7’0” wingspan, Huell really underwhelmed crashing the boards last season. He only managed one double digit rebounding game (10 vs. FAU), and he only grabbed 1 rebound against Florida State, despite playing 22 minutes. The added muscle and weight from the off-season should help Huell improve crashing the boards.

Where Huell is going to make a huge difference for the ‘Canes is blocking shots as a help defender. With his length and athleticism, Huell can really become a difference-maker protecting the rim, and it will allow the Hurricanes to play more aggressively on the perimeter.

While Huell’s offensive game is still a work in progress, he can really make an impact catching lobs from Miami’s perimeter players. Ja’Quan Newton and Bruce Brown Jr. are both great slashers who will be commanding lots of attention from opposing defenses. Huell can be a double digit scorer as long as he can finish around the rim.

The size and talent are there for Dewan Huell to be a difference-maker for the Hurricanes. If he can fill his role and be a consistent presence on defense, the Hurricanes will be a dangerous team.