Nathan de Sousa, a 23‑year‑old French point guard from Saint‑Quentin, is expected to land in Spokane this week as he officially joins the Gonzaga Bulldogs for the 2026‑27 season. His arrival comes after a period of intense scrutiny surrounding his eligibility, a storyline that has dominated the Bulldogs' offseason narrative.
De Sousa spent the previous year in France's LNB Elite, where he posted averages of 10.9 points, 4.9 assists and 2.5 rebounds while shooting 36.1% from three‑point range. That experience, coupled with his professional background, is viewed by Gonzaga coaches as a valuable addition to a backcourt that has been stripped of several key guards.
Eligibility Hurdles
The NCAA's new 5‑in‑5 eligibility model grants de Sousa an additional year of eligibility, but the governing body is still reviewing his stint in the French league. The investigation focuses on whether his professional experience qualifies him for collegiate competition, and any doubt could delay his debut until the start of the season.
Gonzaga's point guard corps has been hit hard by departures. Mario Saint‑Supery left for Valencia, Jack Kayil opted to stay in the NBA draft, and Javon Bennett — originally a Dayton transfer — had his eligibility revoked after the NCAA denied his stay request. The loss of these players left a void that de Sousa is now tasked with filling, while the team also explores other options such as Xaivian Lee, a Florida transfer.
The Bulldogs' roster reshuffle extends beyond the point guard position. Former UCLA point guard Donovan Dent also exited the program, and the team has been linked with several other transfers, including Izan Almansa, who is expected to provide front‑court depth. Despite the churn, the coaching staff remains confident that the incoming talent can sustain a championship‑contending lineup.