The Scarlet Knights announced that they have filled every available scholarship for the upcoming 2026‑27 campaign, bringing the total number of offseason signings to nine. This move marks the culmination of a busy recruitment period in which the program has targeted both domestic talent and international prospects.
A Strategic Addition
Mervedi Miteo, a 17‑year‑old forward standing 6‑foot‑10, arrives from Gran Canaria in Spain, where he spent the last two seasons developing his game. In 24 appearances, he logged 11.9 points and 7.6 rebounds per game while shooting an efficient 51.3% from the field. The Congolese prospect is expected to remain eligible for five years at Rutgers, giving the coaching staff a long‑term project to build around.
Rutgers’ athletic director highlighted the significance of adding a player with Miteo’s physical profile and international experience, noting that his skill set aligns with the program’s evolving style of play. The signing also underscores the Scarlet Knights’ commitment to expanding their global footprint, linking the university to talent pools in Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean.
Alongside Miteo’s arrival, the team confirmed that Lewis Duarte, a recruit from the Dominican Republic, will not join the roster this year. Duarte’s decision leaves the scholarship count unchanged, as all 15 available scholarships have been allocated across the incoming class.
The roster completion reflects a meticulous approach to building depth and versatility. By integrating a player who brings both size and shooting efficiency, Rutgers aims to enhance its competitiveness in the upcoming season while continuing to develop a pipeline of talent that spans multiple continents.