USC men’s basketball lands a big addition in 7-footer Eric Reibe

Eric Musselman has found his likely starting center for next season.

The USC men’s basketball coach landed former UConn big man Eric Reibe out of the transfer portal on Monday after the 7-foot-1 native of Germany announced his commitment on social media.

UConn Huskies center Eric Reibe dunks the ball against the UCLA Bruins in the first half during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Xfinity Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

The addition of Reibe in the frontcourt alongside forward Jacob Cofie could complete the Trojans’ starting lineup if Alijah Arenas returns to join Rodney Rice and K.J. Lewis in the backcourt.

Reibe brings enticing potential despite playing sparingly as a freshman with the Huskies once Tarris Reed Jr. returned in December from an ankle injury.

In his five starts, Reibe put together some impressive performances against top teams. He scored 15 points and blocked two shots against Arizona before logging 12 points, eight rebounds and two blocks against Kansas.

For the season, Reibe averaged 5.9 points and 3.3 rebounds in 13.8 minutes per game while shooting 65.8% from the field and adding 29 blocked shots.

Connecticut Huskies center Eric Reibe looks to pass the ball against the Georgetown Hoyas during the second half at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

A former McDonald’s All-American, Reibe was rated as the top high school center in his class by On3.com while playing for a private school in Maryland.

He’ll be joined by three more McDonald’s All-American newcomers in 7-foot twins Adonis and Darius Ratliff as well as forwards Christian Collins, giving the Trojans perhaps their most complete roster in Musselman’s three seasons.

USC is also expected to add more guards from the transfer portal after recently landing Lewis from Georgetown.