The Miami RedHawks men's basketball program has secured a key piece for its frontcourt, landing a transfer from within the Mid-American Conference. Forward Preston Copeland, who spent his freshman season at conference rival Ball State, has committed to Miami, as first reported by Sam Kayser.

Standing at 6-foot-9, Copeland brings immediate size and experience to the RedHawks' roster. In his debut collegiate season, he appeared in 30 games for the Cardinals, earning 24 starts. He averaged 4.6 points and 4.4 rebounds in just under 19 minutes per game, showing flashes of the rebounding and defensive presence that can thrive in the MAC.

Copeland's commitment comes on the heels of some roster movement for Miami, as forward Brant Byers, the team's second-leading scorer last season, reportedly entered the transfer portal earlier in the day with a commitment to Penn State. This makes the addition of an experienced big man like Copeland, a former standout at Combine Academy in North Carolina, all the more timely as Head Coach Travis Steele looks to rebuild his frontcourt.

For RedHawks fans, this move signals an active approach in the transfer portal, adding a familiar conference opponent who understands the physical style of MAC play. Copeland will look to expand his role and provide a reliable presence in the paint for Miami in the upcoming season.