Poitiers Basket 86 teenager Kény Vado will leave the French club to join the University of Connecticut’s Huskies men’s basketball program in the NCAA, according to a report published on Monday, November 2, 2026. The 18-year-old center signed a three-year contract with Poitiers this past summer but is already slated to move to the American collegiate program starting in the 2027-2028 season.
Poitiers Prepares for Vado’s Departure After Summer Signing
Vado arrived at Poitiers Basket 86 following a development stint at the federal center in INSEP. Through seven games in Elite 2 this season, the 2.06-meter big man has averaged 2.9 points and 2.4 rebounds in 11 minutes of floor time per contest. The club confirmed that Vado will finish the current campaign in France to continue his on-court development before making the transatlantic jump next summer.
Following a Proven Path to the American Collegiate Ranks
Vado discussed the club’s history of grooming frontcourt talent in an interview with La Nouvelle République/Centre Presse. Historically, PB 86 is a club that has launched quite a few people at the 5 position,
Vado said at the time. Even if I don’t necessarily have the same profile as them, I know they are going to put me in the best conditions to express myself. And if I make sure I want to move forward, I’m going to progress.
He specifically pointed to Narcisse Ngoy, another center who joined the Auburn Tigers in the NCAA during the last offseason.
Broader Questions Facing French Clubs and Talent Retention
Vado’s planned departure to UConn highlights a persistent challenge for French basketball clubs trying to retain young talents against the sporting, structural, and financial pull of the NCAA.
Next Steps for Vado and Poitiers Basket 86
Vado remains under contract with Poitiers Basket 86 for the coming months before s’envoler for the United States next summer.
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