Lewis Uvwo commits to Providence: Five-star center picks to Friars over Kentucky, Baylor

Considered the best center in the 2027 recruiting cycle, Uvwo is the first major high school recruiting win for Bryan Hodgson at Providence Five-star center Lewis Uvwo announced his commitment to Providence, picking the Friars on Wednesday over Baylor, Kentucky and Cal on CBS Sports HQ. Landing Uvwo, the No. 7 overall player in the 2027 recruiting cycle by 247Sports, is a major recruiting win for Providence coach Bryan Hodgson, who is entering his first season at the helm of the Friars. Uvwo is the highest-ranked center and considered the best big man in the 2027 class. "What stood out to me about Providence were the people, the culture, and the way they made me feel throughout the whole process," Uvwo told 247Sports' Eric Bossi.

"I felt like they genuinely believed in me, not just as a basketball player but as a person. Providence has a great basketball history with room to create more history and go to heights never experienced at the school, and I welcome that challenge. I wanted to be somewhere I could grow, be challenged, and help build something special. I felt like it was the right place for me and my future." Uvwo took an official visit to Providence last month after visiting Kentucky, Cal and Baylor. Uvwo, who attends national powerhouse Prolific Prep in