Russian standout Egor Ryzhov joins the Miami Hurricanes' frontcourt, providing a versatile 6-foot-11 frame and rim protection to anchor the program's championship pursuit in a revamped ACC landscape.
MIAMI, Fla. – The Miami Hurricanes men’s basketball program is looking to compete among the nation’s best. Coming off a historic 26-9 season – 7-24 the year prior – the roster underwent upgrades while retaining rising sophomores Dante Allen and Shelton Henderson. However, the only piece missing was a true backup center.
Salih Altuntas entered the transfer portal and committed to Saint Mary’s. It left an opening needing to be filled – until today.
The program announced the signing of international center Egor Ryzhov. He’s listed at 6-11 and 220 pounds, and attended Zenit Saint Petersburg in Russia. Ryzhov originally committed to Florida State University in 2025, but never played a game for the Seminoles.
Instead, the 21-year-old joins the NCAA in South Florida.
Ryzhov is a versatile center who can handle the ball, play through physicality, and provide a paint presence. Along with being a high-flying lob threat, he can score over defenders in the post and shoot the midrange from the free-throw line. Ryzhov likes to go to a one-handed skyhook/floater.
Coach Jai Lucas is excited about the newest member of the Hurricanes:
“Egor is a talented frontcourt player who brings great size, skill and international experience to our program,” he said in a Press Release. “He has a strong feel for the game, can impact both ends of the floor and gives us another versatile piece in the paint. We’re excited to welcome him to Miami and look forward to helping him continue to develop in our system.”
Ryzhov is coming off a productive season for BC Enisey in the VTB United League. He averaged 11.7 points on 55.5 percent shooting and 5.9 rebounds in 41 games. Ryzhov will very likely be the backup to shot-blocking Georgia transfer Somto Cyril.
Coach Lucas is known to utilize size – starting Malik Reneau and Ernest Udeh Jr. together last season. Both Ryzhov and Cyril pose as rim protectors. They will very likely be challenged to crash the glass on both sides.
The Hurricanes are poised to be among the Atlantic Coast Conference’s most competitive programs. Given all the talent retained, added through the transfer portal and high school recruiting, and international – championship contention could be the expectation ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Ryzhov will get an early taste of college basketball by facing the Florida Gators in the opener at Tampa. The Gainesville program retained its frontcourt of Alex Condon, Thomas Haugh, and Rueben Cyril.
The Hurricanes have 12 players on the roster – with a few spots available.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news! It's completely free to join, simply by clicking the yellow button at the top of the homepage. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members. Download the free Roundtable APP and stay even more connected!
Anthony Aguirre is the Miami Hurricanes beat writer for Roundtable Sports. Contact info: [email protected] | 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
