LSU Tigers head coach Will Wade announced a significant addition to his program on Tuesday, confirming that 24‑year‑old Israeli center Gilad Levy will join the squad for the 2026‑27 season.
Standing at 7‑foot‑3, Levy brings a rare combination of size and international experience, having spent three years competing in the Israeli Basketball League.
His most productive season came with Be'er Sheva during the 2023‑24 campaign, where he averaged 4.1 points and 3.0 rebounds in just 10.7 minutes per game, shooting an efficient 66.1% from the field.
Although his recent stint with Afula in 2024‑25 yielded modest numbers — 1.7 points per game over 18 appearances — his career totals of 16 blocked shots and 113 rebounds across 51 professional games underscore a defensive presence that could reshape LSU’s interior.
With Levy now officially part of a roster that already includes seven committed players, Wade emphasized that the team’s ambition extends beyond mere participation; it is about competing for championships and representing Louisiana with pride.
The coach highlighted LSU’s resources, fan passion, and the competitive edge of the SEC, noting that the program is built to develop talent and contend at the highest level.
Levy’s addition provides the Tigers with a strong paint presence, giving the team a versatile option near the basket and a defensive anchor for future seasons.
A New Chapter for the Paint
The arrival of a 7‑foot‑3 center signals a strategic shift toward a more dominant interior game, a trait that has been scarce in recent LSU lineups.
Fans can expect a heightened level of excitement as the team blends youthful energy with seasoned professional habits, a combination that could translate into a deeper run in the NCAA tournament.
Wade and his staff will integrate Levy into a system that emphasizes disciplined defense, efficient shot selection, and a fast‑paced transition, aiming to maximize the center’s impact from day one.
As the 2026‑27 season approaches, the Tigers look to translate these strategic moves into tangible results, with the ultimate goal of bringing a championship to Baton Rouge.