Just when you thought things might be relatively quiet with the roster for Ohio State hoops, we get word that the Buckeyes have landed Penn State transfer guard Jamari Wheeler.
Wheeler already notched four years in Happy Valley but has decided to utilize the extra year of eligibility the NCAA has allowed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 6-foot, 170-pounder averaged 6.8 points, 3.5 assists, and 4.2 rebounds in 31.2 minutes of play his senior season.
But where Wheeler may really make a difference for Ohio State is his ability to defend. He is known as an elite defender and created havoc against the OSU guards during a run in the second half of the first meeting between the Buckeyes and Nittany Lions. He averaged 1.8 steals per game this past season.
Wheeler announced the news on Twitter.
chasing dreams, reaching for the stars!! 🔴⚪️🌰🏀 #GoBuckeyes pic.twitter.com/w2DqUs3BbN
— Jamari Wheeler (@Jamariwheeler5) March 31, 2021
Buckeye head coach Chris Holtmann said that getting better defensively was a priority in the offseason. Little did we know it would come in the form of a transfer that will immediately mark some improvement on that end of the floor for one season in Columbus. Also, of note, the addition of Wheeler puts Ohio State one over the scholarship limit so we’ll be on the lookout to see who leaves the program to make room.
Welcome to the dark side Jamari. Games against Penn State should take on some unique fun next season.
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