Xavier Musketeers fans have a reason to be optimistic about the upcoming season, as wing Gabriel Pozzato is officially returning to the team. The university announced the news on April 9, securing a key piece for their roster after a frustrating year of waiting.

Pozzato's first season in Cincinnati was over before it began, as a torn meniscus suffered last August forced him to miss the entire 2026 campaign. While he was able to return to limited practice late in the season, Musketeers supporters never got to see the highly-touted transfer suit up for a game.

His return is a significant boost for Xavier's perimeter. Standing at 6-foot-7, Pozzato was one of the team's most impactful portal additions last offseason, arriving with a four-star transfer rating. He built that reputation during a standout year at Evansville, where he averaged 14.9 points and 4.4 rebounds per game, finishing tenth in scoring in the competitive Missouri Valley Conference.

An international talent who has represented Italy in FIBA U18 competition, Pozzato brings proven scoring and size to the wing. Alongside Jovan Milicevic, who is also returning, Pozzato provides Coach Sean Miller with experienced options and much-needed depth as the Musketeers look to make a push in the Big East.

After a year of rehabilitation, all eyes will be on Pozzato this fall to see if he can translate his MVC success to the high-major level and finally make his long-awaited debut for Xavier.