Luigi Suigo Withdraws From 2026 NBA Draft, Will Return To Villanova

Italian center Luigi Suigo has decided to withdraw from the 2026 NBA Draft and will instead play his senior season at Villanova. The 7-foot-3 prospect will remain in the collegiate ranks, giving up a chance to enter the draft early and instead focus on improving his draft stock for 2027.

Suigo spent the 2023–24 season with KK Mega Bemax in Serbia, averaging 7.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 18.4 minutes per game across 26 contests. His decision to return to Villanova comes after most mock drafts had him projected as a late first-round pick in 2026. The 19-year-old will have another year to showcase his potential, with hopes of climbing into the lottery for the following year’s draft.

Suigo’s size and mobility make him a unique prospect in the NBA draft class. Standing at 7-foot-3 with a 7-foot-10 wingspan, he combines elite length with a developing offensive game. His ability to shoot from midrange and beyond has drawn comparisons to NBA centers who can space the floor, such as Kristaps Porzingis and Myles Turner.

Villanova’s system should give Suigo the opportunity to play high-level college basketball in a competitive Big East Conference. Villanova is always a top contender for the NCAA Tournament and will look to Suigo to anchor their frontcourt. With a strong season, his stock could rise significantly.

Suigo’s decision follows a trend of international prospects returning to college to improve their NBA draft stock. Last season, several players who stayed in school saw their draft positions jump after a strong season with their college teams.

Now that Suigo has committed to Villanova, the focus shifts to how he will fit into the team’s 2024–25 plans. Villanova opens the season in November, and fans will be watching closely to see if Suigo can dominate the paint and elevate the team’s chances in the Big East.