4-star C Somto Cyril commits to Kentucky, will likely remain in 2024 class

Kentucky has landed its first pledge in the 2024 class. Four-star center Somto Cyril has committed to the Wildcats, according to Travis Branham. Previously, there was talk that Cyril would reclassify to 2023 to join the team this year, but a source tells Branham and KSR that is unlikely as of today.

Cyril, a native of Enugu, Nigeria, came to the United States in 2021 and played for Hamilton Heights Christian Academy in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the alma mater of former Kentucky guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The 6’10” 240 lbs. center joined OTE last season and was teammates with Kentucky freshman guard Robert Dillingham, who will play for the Wildcats this season.

Cyril — who boasts a 7’5″ wingspan — averaged 8.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.4 blocks per game while shooting over 66 percent from the floor last season at OTE. He is rated as a four-star prospect and the No. 38 player in the 2024 On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. On3 ranks him as the No. 4 center.

At 6’10” 240 lbs., Cyril earned the nickname “Baby Shaq” for his size and penchant for shattering backboards. Even in Nigeria, he followed Kentucky Basketball growing up.

“They know how to play basketball, it’s a winning team,” Cyril told KSR in February. “I know they’re having a rough season right now, but the Kentucky I know and the one I grew up watching has been a winning team from the very beginning. Hopefully, they’ll get it back together, get some wins. I love watching Kentucky basketball.”

Welcome to the fam, Cyril. We’ll see you next year.

On3 Scouting Report on Somto Cyril

“Somto Cyril is a premier rim protector, one of the best in the country, regardless of class. He has a great frame, strong shoulders, and very long arms. He battles around the basket, a good rebounder both in and out of his area. Cyril is still raw offensively; his hands are solid with balls thrown above his chest. He does not provide much offense outside of ten feet; he is a rim runner, dunker spot type—difference-maker on the defensive end, and violently tries to dunk everything around the rim.”
– On3’s Jamie Shaw

Find out the news as it happens. Text KSR to 41372 to have Breaking News Alerts sent directly to your phone.