Gonzaga men’s basketball Head Coach Mark Few announced the signing of international guard Nathan De Sousa on Friday.
De Sousa most recently played overseas for Cholet Basket in France’s LNB Élite. Last season, the 6-foot-2 Frenchman averaged 10.9 points, 4.9 assists and 2.5 rebounds in 36 games. De Sousa was granted eligibility earlier this week, allowing him to join the Zags for their first official practice on Monday.
With both Dayton transfer Javon Bennett and Florida transfer Xaivian Lee’s eligibility in question, De Sousa’s signing is even more significant. If both players are unable to compete this year due to legal rulings, De Sousa would most likely start at point guard for the Zags. Bennett is currently ineligible through a stay motion granted in the federal NCAA v. Wisne lawsuit that had originally given him a fifth year of eligibility. Lee, who is seeking to use a fifth year of eligibility, is currently eligible, but his status could change before he ever takes the floor for the Zags.
However, De Sousa’s signing immediately gives Coach Few at least one guard capable of running the offense. His experience playing in France’s top division of basketball provides at least a modicum of stability for this year’s Zags.
For fans hoping to get a glimpse of De Sousa as well as the rest of the 2026-27 roster, GU will hold their annual Numerica Kraziness in the Kennel preseason scrimmage on Oct. 3 at 2 p.m. at the McCarthey Athletic Center.
Nick Babington is a sports editor.