BYU fans warmly supported the Cougars during their game against the Texas Longhorns on January 27, 2024, at the Marriott Center in Provo, Utah, but the excitement extends beyond the court. The basketball program recently secured a notable commitment from G-League center Abdullah Ahmed, marking the fourth addition to the team’s class of 2026.
Standing at 6-foot-10 and hailing from Egypt, Ahmed has made a name for himself over the past two seasons with the Westchester Knicks, where he played 18 games and averaged 3.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game. His decision to commit to BYU came after considering several options, including a competing program within the Big 12, Houston.
A recent NCAA ruling has opened doors for former G-League players, allowing them to play in college basketball, which made it possible for Ahmed to join the Cougars in Provo. According to reports, he is expected to have two years of eligibility available but will initially join the team as a redshirt during the current season.
With senior Keba Keita set to graduate, Ahmed is anticipated to step in as the starting center for BYU next season, potentially making a significant impact as part of an evolving roster. He joins fellow recruits Dean Rueckert, KJ Perry, and Will Openshaw in what could be a transformative class for the Cougars moving forward. This blend of new talent provides an optimistic glimpse into the future of BYU basketball.