The University of Miami announced that Egor Ryzhov will join the Hurricanes for the 2026‑27 campaign, bringing a blend of size, skill, and international experience to the program.
Ryzhov arrives after a productive stint in the VTB United League, where he averaged 11.7 points and 5.9 rebounds for BC Enisey during the previous season. His reputation as a reliable rim‑runner and offensive rebounder made him a sought‑after prospect for teams looking to add depth in the paint.
A Versatile Big Man
Coach Jai Lucas highlighted Ryzhov's physical attributes and basketball IQ, noting that the player's ability to operate both inside and on the perimeter adds a new dimension to the Hurricanes' frontcourt. "His size, skill set, and experience against top European competition will help us compete at a higher level," Lucas said in a statement.
Ryzhov's career includes two seasons with Zenit St. Petersburg, where he contributed to the team's domestic successes and earned the 2024 VTB Youth Finals MVP while playing for Zenit‑2. Internationally, he represented Russia at the Euro U18 tournament, posting averages of 4.3 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.7 assists.
The upcoming roster is expected to feature a mix of returning starters and new bench players, with an emphasis on blending domestic talent with strategic foreign additions. This season's group is described as less internationally diverse than the previous year's bench, reflecting the Hurricanes' focus on building a cohesive unit.
Beyond his statistical contributions, Ryzhov is viewed as a cultural bridge, offering the program insight into European training methods and a global perspective that aligns with the Hurricanes' ambition to elevate the program quickly. His integration is already being praised by teammates and staff alike.