BYU Basketball’s Search for a Dominant Center
BYU basketball currently has just four roster spots remaining, but the team is missing a starting center. It’s no exaggeration to say that head coach Kevin Young is putting all his hopes on finding the right center — ideally a 7-foot player — to anchor the frontcourt.
The search for 7’1″ sophomore and German UConn transfer Eric Reibe appears to be losing momentum. While he seemed like the perfect candidate to serve as the defensive anchor for Kevin Young’s Big 12 program, it now looks like he might not be heading to BYU. There are rumors that he could end up at USC, as projected by 247 Sports’ crystal ball. Alternatively, he might switch allegiances and join Indiana or Kentucky. However, there’s still a chance that BYU could land him, though it seems unlikely.
A New Target: Luigi Suigo
Recent information from Vanquish the Foe’s Robby McCombs suggests that BYU is now heavily pursuing Luigi Suigo, a 7’3″ Italian prospect who has been linked with the Cougars for over a year. According to McCombs, “BYU will try to get an NBA-caliber big man and pay 7 figures to get their next starting center.” He also noted that while Keba Keita was good, BYU wants more size in the frontcourt.
This focus on size is crucial for BYU after last season’s struggles against elite college basketball teams. The top programs have dominant big men, such as Michigan’s Aday Mara and Arizona’s Motiejus Krivas, both of whom stand over seven feet tall and dominated in March Madness. For BYU to compete at the highest level, they need a similar presence in the paint.
Why Suigo Fits the Bill
Luigi Suigo, standing at 7’3″, is currently ranked 46th on ESPN’s NBA Draft Big Board for 2026. He is weighing his options between entering the NBA draft or taking the increasingly popular route of playing college basketball as an international prospect. The 2027 draft class is considered weaker than the star-studded 2026 class, making it an attractive option for Suigo to wait another season, gain exposure, and aim for a first-round pick.
BYU would be a strong contender to land Suigo if he chooses to go the college route. If Kevin Young is looking for an NBA-caliber big man, Suigo is one of the best available options.
Suigo’s Skills and Potential
Suigo is known for his ability to space the floor and set effective screens, making him a challenging opponent for any defensive scheme. Although he may be slightly less physical than some of the top Big 12 Conference centers, he is a capable rebounder and brings a unique skill set to the table.
The deadline for players to withdraw from the NBA draft is in June, so there’s no need to panic if Suigo’s commitment doesn’t come during the transfer portal window.
Final Thoughts
For BYU to make a serious run at the Final Four, they need a dominant presence in the frontcourt. Luigi Suigo offers the size, skill, and potential that the Cougars are desperately seeking. With the right development and support, Suigo could become the cornerstone of a competitive BYU team in the coming years.
