Gabe Dynes, a 7‑foot‑5 center from Kentucky, has been added to Louisville’s 2026‑27 roster after stints at USC and Youngstown State, bringing the tallest presence the program has seen in recent memory.
Although his playing time at USC was limited to an average of 12 minutes per game during the 2025‑26 season, Dynes posted a respectable 2.9 points, 2.3 rebounds and a block per contest, and his most productive outing came in his first start when he tallied 16 points on 80% shooting, five rebounds and four blocks.
His game is built around powerful dunks—22 of his 41 field goals at USC were slam attempts—and his shot‑blocking instincts, while his turnover rate of 26.1% placed him in the fifth percentile nationally, highlighting both his raw athleticism and areas for improvement.
Pat Kelsey, Louisville’s head coach, praised Dynes’s combination of size, basketball IQ and mobility, describing him as a versatile defender who can also finish above the rim, a trait that should fit well within the Cardinals’ up‑tempo style.
Coach Kelsey’s Vision for Versatility
With Flory Bidunga and Obinna Ekezie Jr. anchoring the frontcourt, Dynes is slated to begin as a backup, offering additional rim protection and the ability to operate from the high post or the low block, while his size may allow Alvaro Folgueiras to shift temporarily to the power forward position.
The Cardinals’ most potent lineup for the upcoming season is expected to feature steady minutes for Bidunga and Ekezie, with Dynes providing a flexible option off the bench, enhancing depth and defensive versatility as the team aims to compete in the 2026‑27 campaign.