Rutgers University has officially added 17‑year‑old Mervedi Miteo to its men’s basketball roster, inking a contract that brings a 6‑foot‑10 forward‑center from Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, into the Scarlet Knights’ lineup for the upcoming 2026‑27 season.
International résumé and statistical profile
Miteo arrives after two seasons with Gran Canaria’s U22 side in Spain, where he logged 11.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.0 assist, 1.5 steals and 0.8 blocks per game during the 2025‑26 campaign, while also appearing in seven Liga Endesa games for the senior club, averaging 1.4 points and 0.3 rebounds.
Internationally, the youngster has worn the DR Congo jersey at AfroBasket 2025 and in the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers, and he previously showcased his talent at the Adidas Next Generation Tournament, where he posted 12.0 points, 9.6 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.2 blocks across two games.
Coach Steve Pikiell praised the newcomer, describing Miteo as “a long, skilled player with high upside” who should help bolster a frontcourt that has been reshaped throughout the offseason.
A Global Addition to the Scarlet Knights
Miteo’s signing marks the second international recruit of the offseason, following Italian forward Diego Garavaglia, and underscores the program’s expanding footprint across Europe and Africa.
The Scarlet Knights’ interior will also feature returning big men Dorin Buca, Christian Gurdak, Gevonte Ware, Darren Buchanan Jr., Darin Smith Jr., Will Sydnor and Martin Tonejc, making Miteo the youngest member of the group born on December 13, 2008.
His arrival effectively shuts the door on guard Lewis Duarte, who had been considered for the same class, and signals Rutgers’ intent to blend size, skill and global experience as they aim to compete in the Big Ten next season.