Purdue Lands 7-Foot-3 Italian Center Luigi Suigo Following Visit to West Lafayette
Purdue men’s basketball has made a major splash on the international recruiting scene, landing the commitment of 7-foot-3, 240-pound center Luigi Suigo from Italy. The towering big man announced his decision shortly after completing an official visit to Purdue’s campus in West Lafayette, signaling a huge win for the Boilermakers’ frontcourt plans.
Suigo, just 18 years old, has emerged as one of Europe’s top young prospects, impressing scouts with his size, mobility, and high basketball IQ. He’s been a standout in Italy’s youth circuits, most recently competing for Pallacanestro Trieste’s U-20 squad and making appearances in Italy’s competitive Serie A2 league. With interest coming from elite college programs and professional teams in Europe, Suigo’s choice to commit to Purdue highlights his desire to develop under an established system known for producing elite big men.
“After spending time with the coaches and seeing the campus, I felt a strong connection,” Suigo said in a statement shared on his social media. “Purdue’s history with developing big men and its strong basketball tradition made it the perfect choice for me.”
Head Coach Matt Painter, who has built a reputation for developing dominant post players—including recent stars Zach Edey and Trevion Williams—welcomed the commitment with enthusiasm.
“Luigi is a unique talent,” said Painter. “He has elite size and a feel for the game that’s rare for someone his age. He fits exactly what we do here at Purdue, and we’re excited about what he brings to the program.”
Suigo’s arrival couldn’t be more timely. With Zach Edey moving on to the NBA and backup center Will Berg transferring, Purdue was in need of a strong presence in the paint. Suigo provides both the size and skill to fill that gap, and expectations are high that he will make an immediate impact in the Big Ten.
Scouting reports on Suigo highlight his natural shot-blocking ability, mobility for his size, and a rapidly developing offensive game. He’s shown comfort finishing around the rim, knocking down mid-range shots, and even stepping out to the perimeter when needed.
“Suigo isn’t just a back-to-the-basket center,” said ESPN recruiting analyst Paul Biancardi. “He has modern skills, moves well without the ball, and has great court vision. Purdue has added a difference-maker.”
By choosing college basketball over a professional path in Europe, Suigo joins a growing list of international stars opting to develop their skills in the NCAA before making the leap to the pros. His commitment is seen as a major endorsement of Purdue’s player development program and its continued international reach.
Purdue fans have already embraced the news, celebrating online and projecting Suigo’s role in a lineup that includes standout guard Myles Colvin and a promising freshman class. As the Boilermakers prepare for the post-Edey era, Suigo’s arrival gives them a fresh foundation to build around.
Though adjusting to the American game will take time, Suigo’s physical tools and maturity suggest he could be the next big thing in West Lafayette. If all goes according to plan, Purdue may have found its newest centerpiece—and possibly one of the top international stars in college basketball.
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