New York basketball has long been celebrated for its abundance of talented guards. While the state consistently produces top-tier perimeter players, a new trend is emerging. The area is also generating some of the best big men it has seen in recent memory. 2027 Center Caleb Ourigou from Lawrence Woodmere Academy (NY) is undoubtedly one of these elite local bigs, and he recently experienced a major surge in his recruitment.
He initially began to turn heads at Monsignor McClancy (NY) before transferring to Lawrence Woodmere Academy. Under the guidance of Head Coach Tiny Morton, Ourigou has gained a clear understanding of what it takes to be a Division 1 prospect. His coaches have held him accountable, pushed him, strengthened his mental toughness, and prepared him for various on-court scenarios. The big man is a defensive stalwart, extremely active on the offensive glass, has improved his conditioning, and works hard in the post to establish position.
In 2025, the recruiting landscape continues to shift with new NCAA rules. Local prospects have faced challenges due to the transfer portal and increased eligibility options. While many prospects are in a holding pattern, Ourigou is in a unique position, already holding early offers from St. John’s and Fordham. However, these offers were from some time ago, recently he received new offers from Syracuse and UCLA. Ourigou has been a force for the New York Rens program this spring, steadily making his case as one of the premier bigs in the 2027 class.
