Villanova awaits decision from major target as first deadline arrives

KLAIPEDA, LITHUANIA – NOVEMBER 30: Luigi Suigo of Italy looks on during the FIBA World Cup Group D Qualifiers between Lithuania and Italy at Svyturio Arena on November 30, 2025 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. (Photo by Rokas Lukosevicius/FIBA via Getty Images) | FIBA via Getty Images

The first deadline of NBA Draft season has arrived.

College players who is testing the waters of the 2026 NBA Draft will have until 11:59 pm to withdraw as in line with rules from the NCAA. All players who declared for the draft as early entrants will finalize thier decision on Wednesday.

This does not apply to Villanova’s biggest target Lugi Suigo.

The Italian center will follow the withdrawal deadline set by the NBA, which is June 13. This is also for early entrants who do not wish to be drafted. If Suigo withdraws his name from the 2026 draft, he will be eligibile to attend college and re-enter the draft in upcoming years.

So, what does this mean?

Right now, nothing. Suigo has not made a public decision just yet. All we know is what we have already heard and that it feels like Villanova is among early favorites with BYU.

Suigo averaged 8.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in 18.6 minutes per game in the Adriatic League last year. At 7-foot-3, Suigo has good mobility and length. He has the makings of a future NBA center but could opt to come to college for one year first.

Suigo would be a massive get for Kevin Willard and staff to solidify a frontcourt that includes Kwame Evans Jr. The Wildcats also added Devin Royal and Elijah Crawford in the transfer portal, with Jake Fiegen and Buddy Simmons as options to come off the bench. Villanova’s roster is rounding into form and Suigo would be the final piece.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *