4-Star Center Xavion Staton Chooses BYU BYU secures a standout center.
BYU’s basketball program got a major boost for its 2025 recruiting class with the commitment of 4-star center Xavion Staton on Monday evening. Staton selected BYU over Michigan, Stanford, and his hometown school, UNLV. He committed after an official visit to BYU last weekend.
According to 247 Sports’ composite rankings, Xavion Staton is BYU’s highest-rated recruit in 25 years. While Egor Demin received a 5-star rating from 247 Sports, he lacked a composite score since not all recruiting services rated him.
The 7-foot prospect from Las Vegas is ranked as the #23 player nationally by 247 Sports and is considered a potential McDonald’s All-American. Many see Staton as one of the top rim protectors in his class, with a steadily improving offensive game. A scout compared him to DeAndre Jordan due to his abilities in rim running, pick and roll play, and shot-blocking. Head coach Kevin Young has emphasized his preference for centers who thrive in rim-running roles, a quality Staton exemplifies. Although Xavion has the talent to leave BYU for the NBA after one season, he is expected to stay for multiple years.
BYU’s strong NBA development program, NIL opportunities, and proximity to Staton’s home all played roles in his decision. During his visit, BYU highlighted coach Kevin Young’s experience with 31 NBA lottery picks, a compelling pitch for Xavion’s NBA ambitions. Additionally, Staton, who has four younger siblings in Las Vegas, valued BYU’s close distance.
Staton addresses a critical need for BYU and brings Kevin Young another potential NBA first-round talent. With Fousseyni Traore graduating this season, Staton will join Keba Keita, a senior next year, to solidify BYU’s center position. Staton is a true 7-footer who perfectly fits the center role that Young seeks. While he may need to add strength to handle physical centers as a freshman, he possesses the skills to be an NBA first-round pick. This season, he has even started developing a three-point shot.