NCAA Basketball Recruiting: Analyzing top 12 teams for 5-star big Chris Cenac
When looking at the 2025 NCAA Basketball recruiting class, there are plenty of debates about who the best are at each traditional position. There seems to be a consensus on who the best center is in the class. That’s Chris Cenac, a 6’10 and 230-pound big man from New Orleans, Louisiana.
Cenac is a consensus 5-star prospect whose all-around game makes him a great modern-day big man. He moves very well for his size, can operate on the perimeter, and is a willing passer. But inside the arc, Cenac is a dominant two-way player who’s a strong defender with just as good of a post-game.
In the past month, the 5-star big man announced a list of 12 programs in the running, including some big names. He’s already gone on some visits, with more in the works. Which of these 12 makes the most sense for Cenac?
NEWS: 5⭐️ Chris Cenac, On3’s No. 5 overall recruit in the 2025 class, has cut his list down to 12 schools, he tells @On3Recruits.
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) August 9, 2024
The 6-10 Power Forward received a total of 34 offers.
Story: https://t.co/2pTjmHs8ey pic.twitter.com/tnOh3OMSk2
Here’s a closer look at the potential fits.
Alabama Crimson Tide
The Tide has had success at the five-spot in the past, and after last season’s struggles, they landed Rutgers transfer Clifford Omoruyi to shore up that position. He’s gone after next season, so he is opening up a clear spot for Cenac to come in and have a large role. With star guard Mark Sears and others leaving, it also presents a chance for the big man to have a more featured role on the team.
Arkansas Razorbacks
The Razorbacks also have an elite transfer center, Jonas Aidoo, who comes over from Tennessee. The difference here is that Zvonimir Ivisic also followed Coach John Calipari over from Kentucky to be the backup. If Cenac were to come here, he’d have to split time with Ivisic and probably come off the bench if he doesn’t go pro, too.
Auburn Tigers
Auburn’s entire frontcourt is entering its final years of eligibility, including star center Johni Broome. Cenac would be the clear leading big on the 2025-26 roster and would be an ideal fit for Coach Bruce Pearl and be featured on offense as a freshman. But compared to other teams, they might have to rebuild more, so the chances of a deep run might not be as high.