Cincinnati center Moustapha Thiam is a 7-foot-2 post presence whose decision to jump into the transfer portal will open eyes.
With the game flowing between traditional big men and positionless basketball, schools will look to bring him into the fold. Finding a team to extend NIL cash his way will not be difficult. However, finding the right landing spot could be a bit more challenging.
Moustapha Thiam Could Help UConn Make Return Trip to Final Four
The UConn Huskies could not match Michigan’s size advantage in the national championship game. With a flood of post players, the Wolverines controlled the game from pace to the paint. As a result, the Huskies needed to depend on outside shots to stay close. However, adding a seven-footer with ability could balance the scales a bit.
Thiam is an easy leaper. That is, he gets off his feet quickly and doesn’t need to reset. As a result, he can block shots and protect the rim. In 65 games, the center from Senegal rejected 138 shots, averaging 2.1 blocks per game.
The Huskies love the perimeter game but always depend on a big man to man the offense. A couple of years ago, Donovan Clingan occupied the role. Similarly, Thiam would not need to become the focal offensive point, but his presence will force opponents to play honestly.
Mountaineers Could Craft Offense Around Thiam’s Size
While he stands over seven-feet tall, Thiam weighs 235 pounds, giving him the ability to run with a three-guard lineup. West Virginia will undergo a facelift. They played six seniors, so there will be a need for size.
Head coach Ross Hodge preached a defense-first mentality, as evidenced by allowing 65.7 points per game. Plus, Thiam appears comfortable in the Big 12, having spent two previous seasons at Central Florida and Cincinnati.
After averaging 12.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks, Thiam could help WVU return to the NCAA tournament for the first time since the 2022-23 season.
Vanderbilt’s Star Would Open Doors for Thiam
Vanderbilt head coach Mark Byington led the Commodores to back-to-back 20-win seasons for the first time since 2012. Vanderbilt could score with most teams in the NCAA with 85.7 points per game. However, what ultimately led to their undoing is the inability to rebound and defend. Landing a true center like Thiam would change that.
At the same time, providing point guard and leading scorer Tyler Tanner with a lob threat like Thiam could help the offense, as the big man displays the ability to catch and finish near the rim. Spreading the floor keeps defenders and schemes from collapsing on him.
Thiam flashed offensive touch late in the year, averaging 18.4 points over the final seven games. Far from a finished product, teams will allow him to run more. Teams with strong guard play but lacking post height will vie for his services.
