Cedric Coward, a 6’8″ (2.03 m) American center/forward aged 26, has become one of the most talked-about names in the Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB) during the 2025/2026 season. Signed by Bauru Basket to replace the injured Alex Garcia, Coward arrived in Brazil in October and, in less than a month, has already won over fans and analysts with dominant performances.
Early Steps and Development in the United States
Born on May 12, 1999, in Taft, Texas, Cedric Coward first stood out in high school at Taft High School. His versatility as a power forward caught the eye of college scouts, and he chose to play for Eastern Washington University in NCAA Division I.
With the Eagles, Coward posted impressive numbers. In his senior season (2023-2024), he averaged 15.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game while shooting 51% from the field. His ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting (37% career college rate) and protect the rim made him one of the most complete players in the Big Sky Conference.
Professional Career Before Brazil
After going undrafted in the 2024 NBA Draft, Cedric Coward began his pro career in the G-League with the Stockton Kings, the Sacramento Kings’ affiliate. He appeared in 18 games, averaging 8.4 points and 4.9 rebounds in 19 minutes per contest. Despite solid numbers, the fierce competition in the developmental league led him to look for opportunities overseas.
In July 2025, he signed his first international contract with Hapoel Haifa in Israel. However, a right ankle injury sidelined him for nearly two months, limiting him to just five games. Once a free agent, Brazilian agents recommended him to Bauru Basket.
Explosive Arrival in the NBB
Cedric Coward made his Bauru debut on October 25, 2025, against Brasília and did not disappoint: 22 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 blocks in 28 minutes. Since then, he has played seven NBB games with updated averages of:
- 19.1 points per game
- 9.4 rebounds per game
- 2.1 assists per game
- 1.7 blocks per game
- 58% field-goal percentage
- 41% from three-point range
His numbers currently place him in the Top 5 for efficiency in the league, trailing only stars like Georginho (Flamengo) and Márcio (São Paulo).
Playing Style and Impact on Bauru
What impresses most about Coward’s game is his rare blend of size, mobility, and shooting. Able to score with his back to the basket or facing up, he has been used by coach Jorge “Guerreiro” as a “stretch five,” creating space for point guards Pedro Nunes and Larry Taylor II.
Defensively, his 7’1″ (2.15 m) wingspan has caused headaches for opponents. In the classic against Franca on November 8, Coward posted a double-double of 24 points and 14 rebounds plus 4 blocks, proving decisive in an 88-82 victory.
Life Off the Court and Adaptation to Brazil
In recent interviews on Bauru’s official YouTube channel, Cedric revealed he is enchanted with the country. “The warmth here is different. In Bauru, people stop you on the street for photos and ask how you’re doing. That’s rare in the U.S.,” he said. He lives downtown and has already learned Portuguese phrases like “Valeu, chefe!” (“Thanks, boss!”) and “Bora pra cima!” (“Let’s go!”).
His girlfriend, Texas influencer Madison Keys, is with him in Brazil and has been posting stories enjoying pastel from street fairs and açaí bowls. Bauru fans have nicknamed him “C-Train”, a reference to his explosive dunks that look like a high-speed train.
Updated 2025/2026 Season Stats (as of 11/12/2025)
| Game | PTS | REB | AST | BLK | MIN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Brasília | 22 | 11 | 2 | 3 | 28 |
| vs Botafogo | 18 | 8 | 3 | 2 | 26 |
| vs Mogi | 21 | 10 | 0 | 1 | 30 |
| vs Corinthians | 15 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 25 |
| vs Franca | 24 | 14 | 2 | 4 | 32 |
| vs Minas | 17 | 9 | 1 | 1 | 27 |
| vs União Corinthians | 19 | 8 | 2 | 1 | 29 |
Overall averages: 19.1 PTS | 9.4 REB | 2.1 AST | 1.7 BLK
Upcoming Challenges
Bauru faces Flamengo on November 15 at the Maracanãzinho in a game that could pit Cedric Coward against Olivia Nelson-Ododa, another foreign star of the season. Analysts believe the battle between the two bigs will be decisive for the Dragon’s ambitions at the top of the standings.
Future and NBA Dream
Despite his instant success in Brazil, Cedric Coward makes no secret of his bigger goal: “I want to use the NBB as a showcase. I know I’m good enough for the G-League again, maybe a Summer League shot in 2026.” His agent is already in talks with scouts from the Atlanta Hawks and Charlotte Hornets—teams looking for mobile bigs for today’s small-ball style.
A Legacy in the Making
In less than 30 days in Brazil, Cedric Coward has joined the list of foreigners who have left their mark on the NBB. Compared by many to legends Shamell Stallworth and David Jackson, the American has everything needed to contend for season MVP if he maintains this level.
Bauru fans are buzzing with excitement to see the “C-Train” lead the team into the playoffs—and who knows, maybe turn what started as a temporary stint into a true love story with Brazilian basketball.
