Seton Hall Basketball was one of the worst teams in the country last season, winning just seven games total. Frontcourt play was one of the biggest issues, ranking as the worst rebounding team among all power conference programs.There was a definite lack of size too, with 6’6 forward Prince Aligbe and 6’9 sophomore center Godswill Erheriene being the key rotation pieces.
A complete roster overhaul has Erheriene as the lone returning big man. Joining the Pirates from the transfer portal includes Pat Suemnick, a role player from OK State, and Stephon Payne III, who produced 8.4 ppg at Jacksonville last year. But they could use even more depth and this past week, found a way to get another piece with arguably an even higher ceiling.
NEWS: Najai Hines, the No. 36 overall prospect in the class of 2026, has committed to Seton Hall, @247Sports is told.
— Dushawn London (@DushawnLondon1) July 22, 2025
Hines was one of the biggest stock risers in the class and will reclass up for the class of 2025.
He chose Seton Hall over NC State, Indiana, San Diego and… pic.twitter.com/TwZJJkRigK
Najai Hines is a 6’10 and nearly 250-pound center from the New York area. He was a consensus top-50 prospect in the 2026 class, viewed as a physical rim protector who can rebound at a high rate and score inside. In the most recent AAU run, Hines averaged nearly 10 rpg and three blocks per game.
Reclassifying can be risky for most players, as they may not be ready for the college level. But Hines’ body is already set to play, and Seton Hall hopes that he can be an impact contributor at the level and get out of the basement.
On paper, there’s a good chance that Hines could even start over Erheriene at the five-spot. Improved play would go a long way in helping Seton Hall compete better next season. They already have key guard transfers such as Adam Clark, TK Simpkins, and Elijah Fisher in the backcourt. If the frontcourt can do its part, then Coach Shaheen Holloway won’t be on the hot seat 10 months from now.