Arizona State University's men's basketball team has announced the addition of Filip Malesevic, a 7‑foot‑1 Serbian center who is currently under contract with FMP Beograd. The 20‑year‑old will turn 21 in August and is expected to join the Sun Devils for the upcoming season, bringing a rare combination of size and international experience.
Malesevic joins a frontcourt that already features multiple players standing at least 6‑foot‑10, creating a uniquely tall interior. Alongside him, the roster includes Ajak Nyuon, a 6‑foot‑10 Australian who recently competed for Team Australia at the 2025 FIBA U19 World Cup, as well as fellow big men Ben Defty and Nate Garcia, both listed at 7 feet.
A Coach's Vision for a Dominant Paint
Head coach Randy Bennett has spoken openly about the strategic advantage of a deep, oversized frontcourt, noting that the team's size will be a focal point of both offensive and defensive schemes. Bennett, who previously guided Saint Mary's to notable success, emphasized that the new additions are part of a deliberate effort to compete at the top of the Big 12.
The Sun Devils' recent activity in the transfer portal has also brought in Paulius Murauskas and Dillan Shaw, both of whom previously played under Bennett at Saint Mary's. Murauskas, a Lithuanian native, was ranked among the top ten portal prospects by several recruiting services, while Shaw offers versatility as a 6‑foot‑7 small forward.
The program's recruiting class has been recognized as the 10th best overall by 247Sports and holds the top spot within the Big 12, reflecting the coaching staff's ability to attract high‑profile talent. This ranking underscores the excitement surrounding the team's prospects for the upcoming season.
Malesevic's recent professional experience includes limited minutes for FMP Beograd, where he has averaged six points over the past four games while seeing eight to eleven minutes of action per contest. Despite modest statistical output, his size and potential were key factors in the Sun Devils' decision to add him to the roster.
The team will also retain two returning players, Bryce Ford and Vijay Wallace, who provide additional depth and experience. Together with the new arrivals, the Sun Devils hope to translate their strong recruiting class into on‑court success and a competitive edge in the conference.