OREM—Utah Valley head coach Mark Madsen has announced that NBA Academy Latin America standout Joao Das Chagas has signed to play with the Wolverines. 
 
"I am extremely excited to welcome Joao to Utah Valley University," said Madsen. "When Todd Okeson and I first saw Joao in San Luis de Potosi, Mexico, we were impressed with his feel for the game and his unique skill for a big man. Joao is an imposing and physical player who also has the ability to stretch the floor and knock down shots. Joao will be a key piece for this program going forward. We are excited to embrace him into the community and welcome him with open arms."
 
Das Chagas, a 6-foot-10, 240-pound forward/center from Brazil, played in the NBA Academy Latin America. NBA Latin America is an elite basketball training program for top prospects from throughout Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, South America, and Canada. NBA Academy Latin America is based at the La Loma Centro Deportivo in the La Loma region of Mexico City.
 
The Niquelândia, Brazil native will join the Wolverines for the 2022-23 season as a freshman.