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Luigi Suigo Withdraws From 2026 NBA Draft and Commits to Villanova

The 7-foot-3 Italian opted for college development over an immediate pro contract, a choice that comes against unresolved NCAA guidance on eligibility for international professionals.

Overview

  • Suigo withdrew from the 2026 NBA draft on Saturday, June 13, 2026, and officially committed to Villanova for the 2026–27 season where he is expected to be the starting center.
  • He measured 7'3" without shoes and 289 pounds at the NBA Draft Combine and entered mock drafts as a late first-round or early second-round prospect, giving him clear NBA upside if he develops in college.
  • Suigo spent 2025–26 playing professionally for BC Mega Basket in the ABA League and averaged roughly 8 points, 5 rebounds and 1 block per game across the season.
  • Villanova added Suigo as part of a frontcourt overhaul that includes transfers Kwame Evans Jr. and Devin Royal and will open the season against Notre Dame in Rome on Nov. 1 where Suigo will make his Wildcats debut.
  • The NCAA recently issued eligibility guidance for international professionals that remains unresolved and could affect similar transfers, and Suigo’s choice highlights the trade-off between immediate pro pay and using college play to boost future draft position.