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LSU adds former Cavs pick, Italian pro Niang

May 19, 2026 | 5:34 PM

REUTERS/Yiannis Kourtoglou

By Hunt Palmer

A long-rumored commitment is being reported.

Saliou Niang will leave Italian power Virtus Bologna for the American collegiate ranks and LSU according to a report from College Basketball Content.

Niang is a 6-foot-6 wing who was a sign and stash by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft. The Cavs took him 58th overall.

In his 2025 season, Niang was named the Italian Lega A Most Improved Player averaging 7.8 points and five rebounds. He’s played five seasons of professional basketball in Italy where he was raised after being born in Senegal.

He turns 22 on May 14. LSU beat out North Carolina among others for his services.

Hunt Palmer

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