Pitt Makes Papa Kante Addition Official
PITTSBURGH -- The most surprising and arguably the most important signing of the offseason for the Pitt Panthers is now official.
The program announced that four-star center Papa Kante, a native of Senegal who arrives at Pitt by way of the South Kent School in Connecticut, has officially signed with the Panthers this week, just one day after committing.
"Papa is a terrific addition to our recruiting class and our roster," head coach Jeff Capel said. "He fits our culture with his competitiveness, ability to play at a high level on both ends of the floor, and strong work ethic. He has a great combination of physicality and athleticism that enables him to impact the game in a variety of ways. We are excited to have him join our program and look forward to helping him continue to develop his game."
Kante's commitment comes from almost out of nowhere. He had originally committed to and enrolled at Michigan, picking the Wolverines from a top five that included Pitt, Memphis, Maryland at Rutgers as well. The 6'10 and 225-pound blue-chip big man requested a release from his NLI to Michigan earlier this month and made the quick decision to join Capel's squad this year.
A unanimous four-star prospect by every major recruiting service, Kante is ranked as high as the No. 3 player in his state and No. 6 center in the class (Rivals). On3, 247Sports and Rivals all consider him a top-100 player in the class of 2023.
After averaging 14 points and 10 rebounds per game while shooting 57% from the field and 36% from 3-point range, he was named a First-Team All-NEPSAC selection. He led South Kent to a NEPSAC AAA Championship and an appearance in the National Prep School Championship in 2023.
Make sure you bookmark Inside the Panthers for the latest news, exclusive interviews, recruiting coverage, and more!
Damar Hamlin Sits Out First Day of Bills OTAs
Pitt Alumni Return to The Basketball Tournament with Zoo Crew
Kenny Pickett Among Top 75 QBs of 2000s
Two New Offers Out for Pitt Basketball
Freshman RB D'Antae Sheffey Holds Pitt in Top Five
Pitt Climbs Recruiting Rankings After Papa Kante Commitment
- Follow Inside the Panthers on Twitter: @InsidePitt