SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – Just over a year ago, William Kyle III was coming off the bench at UCLA with limited opportunities to showcase his game.
Now, the former Syracuse University center is preparing for the 2026 NBA draft after completing workouts with 10 NBA teams, including the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics and Atlanta Hawks.
Kyle’s path to this point wasn’t a straight line.
He began his collegiate career at South Dakota State, where he developed into one of the Summit League’s top defenders. As a sophomore, he averaged 13 points and eight rebounds per game, earned Summit League Defensive Player of the Year honors and helped lead the Jackrabbits to the NCAA Tournament.
Looking back, Kyle said South Dakota State helped build the foundation of his career.
“South Dakota State really instilled winning habits and just the power of working and continuing to develop your game,” Kyle said. “I came in struggling with my weight and trying to get stronger, but that experience taught me work ethic.”
His success earned him a transfer to UCLA, but consistent playing time proved difficult to find. Kyle appeared in 32 games for the Bruins, averaging just under 10 minutes per contest.
“Being at UCLA and not really playing as much was tough for me, and it took a hit on my confidence,” Kyle said. “But I attacked that adversity in a positive way.”
Searching for a larger role, Kyle transferred to Syracuse for his final collegiate season. The move changed the trajectory of his career.
Kyle started every game for the Orange during the 2025-26 season, averaging 8.1 points and 7.1 rebounds while recording 81 blocks, one of the top marks in the ACC. He posted six blocks against Tennessee, recorded a double-double against Houston and grabbed a career-high 16 rebounds in a double-overtime win over California.
His performance earned him a spot on the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year watch list and put him firmly on NBA scouts’ radar.
“I feel like what clicked for me was confidence,” Kyle said. “I put in so much work, and the coaching staff gave me the confidence to go out there and be who I am as a player.”
With the draft set for June 23, Kyle could become Syracuse’s first NBA draft selection since Elijah Hughes in 2020. Whether his opportunity comes through the draft or free agency, Kyle’s journey through three programs has helped prepare him for the next level.