Scouting Report: Nikolaos Chitikoudis (Robert Morris – Junior)Measurements: 6'9", 215 lbs
2025–26 Production:
11.1 PPG, 7.7 RPG, 1.8 APG, 53.2% FG, 0% 3PT, 39–40% FT (varies slightly by source)
Low turnovers: just 1.4 per game
Consistent interior efficiency: 54–55% FG across multiple seasons
Background & Notable Achievements:
Former NC A&T standout: 10.8 PPG, 9.3 RPG, led the CAA in rebounding and ranked top‑20 nationally.
International résumé: Represented Greece at the 2024 FIBA EuroBasket, contributing 8 points and 10 rebounds in the semifinal vs. France and helping secure a bronze medal.
Multiple double‑doubles and high‑impact rebounding games, including 22 rebounds vs. NC Central and 19 & 15 vs. Northeastern.
Strengths
Elite rebounder: Tracks the ball well, boxes out with physicality, and rebounds outside his area.
Efficient interior scorer: Finishes through contact, thrives as a cutter and offensive rebound put‑back threat.
Defensive versatility: Can guard 4s and some small‑ball 5s; active hands, good timing as a secondary rim protector.
High motor / toughness: Plays with physicality and effort every possession.
Low‑mistake player: Turnovers are minimal for a frontcourt piece.
Weaknesses
No perimeter shooting: 0% from three and sub‑40% FT indicate no stretch potential at this stage.
Limited self‑creation: Best as a play‑finisher, not a play‑maker.
Lean frame: At 215 lbs, may struggle against true Big East centers.
Fit With Richard Pitino’s Xavier Team (2026–27)Fit With Xavier 2026–27 Roster
Context: Xavier’s incoming frontcourt includes Mike Nwoko (C), Rolyns Aligbe (PF), Asher Elson (freshman PF/C), and Harrison Aligbe (F). Guards (Dominguez, Washington, Westry, House, Basson) provide shooting and playmaking.
Pairing with Mike Nwoko
Complementary pairing. Nwoko is the vertical rim protector and interior scorer; Chitikoudis supplies mobility, offensive rebounding, and switchability. Together they allow Pitino to run more switching coverages while keeping the glass controlled.
Pairing with Rolyns Aligbe
Rebounding/defense heavy combo. Both excel on the glass; ideal for lineups that need to close out games by winning possessions. Spacing becomes an issue unless surrounded by multiple shooters.
Pairing with Asher Elson and Harrison Aligbe
Developmental and matchup versatility. Chitikoudis can start or come off the bench to give Elson time to develop; with Harrison he forms a mobile, athletic frontcourt that fits Pitino’s pace.
Overall fit verdict
High value as a rotation 4/5. He fills a clear need: a reliable rebounder/defender who complements Nwoko’s interior scoring and the guards’ shooting. He is a plug‑and‑play role player in Pitino’s system.
Role Projection and Minute Allocation (2026–27)
Projected role: Primary backup 4/5 with spot starts depending on matchups and Elson’s development.
Minutes: 20–26 MPG (rotation staple).
Primary responsibilities: lead team in contested rebounds; defend opposing stretch‑4s and small centers; finish roll actions and offensive rebounds; set physical tone in late‑game possessions.
Stat projection at Big East level (realistic first‑year expectation): 6–9 PPG; 6–8 RPG; 55% FG; 0–1 3PA; 1–2 BLK/steal combined.
Development Plan and Matchup Notes
Short‑term priorities (first 6 months)
Add functional strength (+10–15 lbs of muscle) to handle heavier Big East centers.
Free‑throw and touch work to raise FT% and add simple face‑up finishing moves.
Pick‑and‑roll reads to improve timing as roll man and outlet passer.
Long‑term upside
If he adds strength and a reliable 10–12 ft midrange touch, he becomes a multi‑positional starter; otherwise, he remains a high‑value rotation piece who wins possessions.
Matchup notes
Favorable vs. mobile 4s who lack size — he can outwork and out‑rebound them.
Challenged vs. heavy, back‑to‑the‑basket 5s — use Nwoko or a bigger lineup in those matchups.
Best lineups: surround him with at least two shooters (Dominguez + Westry/Washington) so defenses can’t clog the paint.