2027 Forward 6’9 Gradi Ekutshu Player Profile

Gradi Ekutshu

P: 321-352-1895 E: gekutshu@Icloud.com

Hometown: Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Position: Forward

HT 6'9 WT 205 LBS

NCAA ID:

GPA: 3.2

School: The Academy of Central Florida

Player Summary

Gradi Ekutshu is quickly making his mark as one of the most intriguing forwards in the 2027 class. A native of the Democratic Republic of Congo, now playing under Chris Chaney at the Academy of Central Florida, Ekutshu brings a blend of size, athleticism, and upside that screams high-major potential. At 6’9”, he’s a fluid athlete who runs the floor hard, finishes above the rim, and plays with the type of energy that coaches covet. He thrives in transition, where his speed and bounce separate him from most players his size, and he’s developing the skill to face up and make plays in the half court.

Ekutshu’s strengths lie in his versatility. Offensively, he’s shown the ability to stretch the floor with a growing perimeter game, while also being a force around the basket. He can finish through contact, attack off one or two dribbles, and is a constant lob threat. Defensively, his length and athleticism give him the tools to guard multiple positions, protect the rim, and control the glass. His motor is a major asset—he doesn’t take plays off, and his hustle shows up in rebounding, rim-running, and making winning plays that don’t always show in the box score.

For college coaches, Ekutshu represents a high-upside forward with the tools to impact a game right away while still having tremendous room to grow. Under Chaney’s program, he’s gaining valuable development and experience that will sharpen his skill set. With his combination of athleticism, length, and emerging skill, Gradi Ekutshu has the chance to be a big-time difference-maker at the next level—and he’s the type of prospect who could eventually draw serious NBA attention.

Strengths

• Elite athleticism: Runs the floor hard, plays above the rim, constant lob threat.

• Versatility: Can guard multiple positions, stretch the floor, and attack off the bounce.

• Defensive upside: Rim protection, switchability, rebounding presence.

• High motor: Energy, hustle, and effort translate into winning plays.

• Physical tools: Strong frame with length and fluid mobility for his size.

Areas for Improvement

• Consistency from the perimeter: Developing as a reliable three-point shooter.

• Skill refinement in the half-court: Continued improvement with ball-handling and shot creation.

• Strength/physicality: Adding muscle to maximize effectiveness against older, stronger players.

• Polish on offensive reads: Decision-making as a passer and creator still a work in progress.

Film Study: