:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49601141/usa-today-9036167.0.jpg)
The Crimson Tide got some welcome news on Sunday as Ohio State center Daniel Giddens announced via Twitter that he was transferring to Alabama.
— D. Giddens (@DGOOD__) May 15, 2016
Giddens saw an active role on the Buckeyes team but split time at center with sophomore Trevor Thompson. Both players averaged right around 18 minutes per game. As a true freshman, he made seven starts, averaging 3.8 points, 3.6 rebounds per game, and 1.5 blocks per game. Giddens played in every game except for two in early December when he was ill.
Originally from Mableton, GA, an Atlanta suburb, sources including an Ohio State assistant told local Ohio media that Giddens wanted to be closer to home. After an official visit to Alabama with his family on Saturday, he selected the Tide over UGA among others.
Coming out of powerhouse Oak Hill Academy, Giddens was a consensus 4-star and ranked between number 42 and 59 overall in the nation for the 2015 recruiting class.
This big man has a lot of potential to become an intimidating force in the middle. At 6'10"/230, he is a true center who excels at shotblocking and rebounding and has a thunderous dunk. He also has a bit of a nasty streak in him - not in a bad troublemaker way, but as a potential enforcer. However, his offensive game and awareness to stay out of foul trouble needs some work. A year on the sidelines should benefit his game. Giddens will have to sit out this coming season before playing in the 2017-18 season with three years of eligibility remaining.
THE "TRADE"
Since forward Michael Kessens (Florida International) and guard Justin Coleman (Samford) made transfer announcements, Coach Avery Johnson has received pledges from Giddens and former Morehead State grad-transfer guard Corban Collins (11.0 ppg, 3.0 apg). Collins has one season left to play.
How are you feeling about this "trade"?