ODU Men’s Basketball Signs Transfer Forward Kylan Howze

ODU Men’s Basketball Signs Transfer Forward Kylan Howze

June 12, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Sports

Old Dominion men’s basketball head coach Mike Jones has added Kylan Howze, a 6-foot 10-inch forward from Louisiana Tech, as one of seven transfers for the 2026-27 roster. According to Jones, Howze brings a “knack for winning” and defensive length to the Monarchs’ interior.

Why did Coach Mike Jones recruit Kylan Howze?

Coach Mike Jones stated that Howze possesses a history of winning across high school, junior college, and Division I levels. Jones expects the forward to provide a presence in the paint on both ends of the floor.

The head coach noted that Howze’s ability to block shots and disrupt plays with his length aligns with the team’s defensive identity. Jones described the addition of the forward/post player as a move that “will help us win.”

Did You Know? During the 2023-24 season at Jones College, Kylan Howze recorded 86 blocks, which ranked ninth in the NJCAA and second in the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges Conference (MACCC).

What is Kylan Howze’s collegiate track record?

Howze spent two seasons at Jones College before moving to Louisiana Tech. As a freshman in 2023-24, he started all 34 games for the Bobcats, averaging 5.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game while shooting 52.8% from the floor.

Student Athletes of the Week: Gulfport basketball’s Kylan and Jylan Howze

During his sophomore year in 2024-25, Howze helped the Bobcats achieve a program-record 30-4 season and a MACCC regular season title. He led the team with 77 blocks, ranking 14th nationally, and averaged 6.6 points and 6.5 rebounds over 30 appearances.

In the 2025-26 season at Louisiana Tech, Howze appeared in 25 games with four starts. He averaged 2.1 points and 2.2 rebounds in 10.6 minutes per game, shooting 55.6% from the floor. His season high in scoring was nine points, recorded during his debut against Nevada on November 4.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that Howze’s transition from a high-volume shot-blocker in the NJCAA to a rotational role at Louisiana Tech suggests a player who can adapt to different system requirements. His consistent field goal percentage across both levels indicates efficient scoring within his designated role.

How could Howze impact the 2026-27 Monarchs?

Howze may serve as a primary rim protector for Old Dominion given his history of high block totals. His experience in high-win environments, including a 30-4 run at Jones College and a 26-5 senior season at Gulfport High School, could provide veteran stability.

How could Howze impact the 2026-27 Monarchs?

Depending on the integration of the other six transfers, Howze is likely to compete for minutes in the frontcourt. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses with his length may allow the Monarchs to implement a more aggressive defensive scheme in the paint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where did Kylan Howze play before transferring to Old Dominion?
Howze most recently played for Louisiana Tech after spending two seasons at Jones College.

What are Kylan Howze’s physical dimensions?
Howze is a 6-foot 10-inch forward.

How many total transfers did Coach Mike Jones add for the 2026-27 roster?
Coach Mike Jones added seven transfers to round out the roster.

How will the addition of seven new transfers shift the chemistry of the Monarchs’ roster?