Ohio State Basketball: Chris Holtmann finds missing pieces with transfers
Chris Holtmann had a depleted roster when he took over as the Ohio State basketball coach and he looked for transfers to help fill it.
It was reported yesterday by 247Sports Justice Sueing officially transferred from the University of California and will be joining the Ohio State basketball team. Not only has Chris Holtmann landed outstanding high school recruits during his short tenure, he has shown he can fill in missing pieces in his basketball program with transfers.
First a look at the newest one.
The 6 ft. 7 Sueing averaged 14.1 points per game, 5.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.6 steals in his two seasons at California. He also shot 43 percent from the field and 73. 4 percent from the line, but last season his free throw shooting jumped to 78.2.
Although Sueing will have to sit out for one year he is a terrific get for multiple reasons. First, he will be eligible after swingman Andre Wesson graduates which is definitely a plus.
Sueing is also a player who is a proficient scorer inside the arc which is something the Buckeyes struggle with at times. He shot over 50 percent from two-point range for Cal.
For that reason, as well as the experience he brings to the table, he will be a great player for the starters to go up against in practice. The Buckeyes will face numerous Big Ten players next season who like to score inside the arc.
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Coach Holtmann has done a great job of landing transfers to fill key positions in his first two years at the helm and Sueing is another great get. Let’s look at the others.
When he needed a point guard his first year Andrew Dakich made the trip south from Michigan. He was a key player for Ohio State during the 2017-18 season.
Last season he brought in Keyshawn Woods as a graduate transfer. He was a big factor in the Buckeyes making the NCAA Tournament.
C.J. Walker also transferred in but had to sit for a year. He will bring experience to the guard position next season while the younger players find their way.
Next. Expectations for Justin Fields during 2019 season. dark
Coach Holtmann has done a fantastic job on the recruiting trail and this year’s class is an outstanding one. But the success he has had bringing in transfers to fill voids is equally impressive. He does know how to find missing pieces to the puzzle.