The UNLV men’s basketball program has announced the signing of Emmanuel Stephen, a 7-foot, 230-pound center, who will join the Runnin’ Rebels for the 2025-26 season. Head coach Josh Pastner confirmed the commitment on Tuesday.
Stephen, originally from Lagos, Nigeria, spent his freshman year at the University of Arizona during the 2024-25 season. Prior to college, he played his senior year of high school at Dream City Christian in Glendale, Ariz., where he was ranked as a four-star, Top 100 recruit.
“Emmanuel is a great young man with a legitimate 7-foot frame and impressive length,” said Coach Pastner. “His shot-blocking ability, rim protection, and rebounding will be extremely valuable for us. His defensive presence will also create fast-break opportunities for us to run. We are very excited to have him join the Runnin’ Rebel family.”
Stephen’s basketball journey began in 2019 when he first started playing the sport. Before moving to the United States, he spent time at the NBA Academy Africa and played for the Paul George Elite AAU team. In the 2023 Peach Jam, Stephen averaged 3.8 blocks per game and was named the tournament’s defensive MVP. He also recorded 7.0 points and 9.8 rebounds per contest.
After high school, Stephen chose to play for Arizona over several top programs, including Kansas, Miami (Fla.), Michigan, and USC.
He will be joined at UNLV by fellow incoming players Mason Abittan and Tyrin Jones for the 2025-26 season. James Evans Jr. and Jacob Bannarbie, who were part of last season’s roster, have also committed to return.
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