EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. – SIUE men's basketball Head Coach Brian Barone has announced the addition of Landon Thomas (LaGrange, Georgia) for the 2027-28 season.

Thomas is a 6-foot-9, 240-pound center from Link Year Prep in Branson, Missouri, where he plays for the Post Grad Elite team.

"We are looking forward to having Landon on campus next season," Barone said. "He brings size, athleticism and presence to our frontcourt. He runs the floor well and finishes above the rim. On the defensive end, he gives us a presence with his rebounding and shot blocking. We're excited to see him build on those strengths as he develops in our program."

Before joining Link Year Prep, Thomas earned All-Region honors as a senior at Newnan High School in Georgia. He averaged 10.5 points, 7.8 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game in 2025-26, leading Newnan in rebounding and blocked shots.

"I committed to SIUE because I felt like it was the right place for me both on and off the court," Thomas said. "The coaching staff made me feel welcomed, and the family atmosphere really stood out to me. I believe in what they're building, and I feel like SIUE is the perfect place for me to grow as a player, compete at a high level, and continue chasing my dreams. I'm excited to be a part of something special."

"Landon has a high ceiling and a willingness to improve," Barone added. "We are looking forward to seeing him use his versatility on both ends of the floor to become the player we know he can be.  Landon has the type of personality and foundation that our culture thrives on. We are looking forward to having his family become part of our Find A Way Family."