Last season, Pittsburgh’s main strength was in the backcourt, led by Jaland Lowe and Ishmael Leggett. You also can include Damian Dunn when he was healthy and available. The frontcourt did show some flashes but it proved to be a weak spot for the team, including both in the defensive and rebounding categories.
Changes were made this offseason. Starting center Cameron Corhen (11 ppg and 5.2 rpg) is back, along with backup center, Papa Kante. Replacing the Diaz-Graham twins inside is Dishon Jackson, a 6’10 center transfer from Iowa State who produced 8.5 ppg and 5.1 rpg in 19 mpg.
But the Panthers weren’t done yet rebuilding its frontcourt, as they added one of the top available international prospects.
NEWS: Australian forward Roman Siulepa has enrolled at Pitt, Daniel Moldovan of Lighthouse Sports told ESPN.
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) July 18, 2025
Siulepa had an explosive showing at the FIBA U19 World Cup, posting 18.9 points, 8.1 rebounds in 29 minutes per game, leading the event in free throw attempts. pic.twitter.com/4OSJx8h2LW
Roman Siulepa is a 6’7 power forward, viewed as one of the top prospects out of Australia. He was a standout in the most recent U19 World Championships. He led his team with 18.9 ppg and 8.1 rpg during the tournament, including a very notable 19 points and 12 rebounds in a loss to Team USA, filled with five-star talents who went on to win the Gold Medal.
Siulepa is a physical player who can get to the basket and has the athleticism to compete at the D-I level. One concern is his lack of consistent shooting, which would limit the spacing potential for Pittsburgh since its centers aren’t shooters. Still, the Panthers should be able to go from being a poor rebounding unit to one of the better ones in the ACC next season.
The Panthers are reportedly not done yet, with the potential of adding at least one more guard to the roster for 2025-26. That includes Damian Dunn, who had an injury-plagued campaign last season and needs a waiver from the NCAA to get another year. If that happens, this unit could be an NCAA Tournament contender.