Villanova was connected to Luigi Suigo during the offseason for what felt like a year. It was a stressful time for all those involved, but that wait became worthwhile on June 13 when the 7’3” Italian withdrew from the NBA Draft and committed to the Wildcats.
At the time, the only true center on the roster was redshirt freshman Nico Onyekwere. Kevin Willard had done well to bring in bigger players like Devin Royal and Kwame Evans Jr., but the roster was still missing its final piece to make the puzzle
complete. Enter Suigo, an intriguing blend of size and skill that will allow Royal and Evans Jr. to play more of their true positions at the forward spots.
Suigo having the shooting touch out to the three-point line at his size is uncommon to say the least, but a skill that has been brought up throughout the offseason is his passing ability. Willard has said that he plans on using Suigo as a hub for the offense, and that plan was shown in the first exhibition game against Rutgers. Suigo had three assists in that contest, which is something former center Duke Brennan did on 11 occasions a year ago. Willard has specifically mentioned using him similarly to former Maryland and current New Orleans Pelicans’ big man Derik Queen.
Beyond the shooting and passing uniqueness, let’s not overlook the sheer size that this Villanova team now possesses. Suigo will have to adjust to both the footspeed and the strength of the Big East athletes, but despite that his presence was already felt against the Scarlet Knights. In 31 minutes played, Suigo recorded eight rebounds (three offensive) and three blocks. The big man also showed a quick first step on the block, which is something he can use given his strong lower body.
With all of the NBA hype and the intriguing skillset taken into account, it’s important to remember that Suigo is a 19-year-old freshman from Italy. International players usually have an adjustment period when coming over to play in the United States, and freshmen usually have one when playing in college for the first time. The early season will likely be inconsistent for Suigo. That said, he should only improve as the season goes on. Willard has stated that he missed some time in the weight room, but he is doing a great job in making up for that lost time. Leading into the end of the season, Suigo’s comfort in the system (and in the United States as a whole) will be crucial in determining Villanova’s ceiling. If Suigo can come close to his personal potential in his time on the Main Line, the Wildcats have potential for a serious run in March.
