Caden Powell, a native of Waco and ex-Baylor basketball player, is set to return to the Baylor Bears for the 2026-27 season following a court injunction in Ohio. Previously a player for Wyoming and Rice, Powell joined Baylor last season, initially expected to be a backup center. However, due to team injuries, he ended the previous season as a starter.
This season's Baylor team is undergoing significant changes, with head coach Scott Drew and his staff aiming to create a deeper roster capable of withstanding a full season and competing in March. Powell's unexpected availability enhances the team's depth chart.
While he may not immediately regain a starting role, Powell is anticipated to contribute significantly off the bench, bringing defensive skills and a lob threat to the Bears. The projected depth chart features Kayden Mingo and Dylan Mingo as starters in the guard positions, with Juslin Bodo Bodo as the starting center and Powell in the rotation.
Powell's experience will be vital for a relatively young team, where only Evan Chatman and Juslin Bodo Bodo were seniors prior to his return. His familiarity with the Big 12 is expected to aid in building team chemistry and leadership as the season approaches.
