Eric Boggs
In a move to bolster the lineup for Ohio State’s men’s basketball team, former Kentucky center Aaron Bradshaw, standing tall at 7 feet 1 inch, announced his commitment to the Buckeyes on Monday. Bradshaw’s decision brings a wealth of talent to Ohio’s capital, with the towering athlete ranked as the No. 5 center and No. 23 prospect overall in the 247Sports’ transfer portal rankings.
Just a rising sophomore, Bradshaw brings with him an impressive track record and three years of eligibility. With a recruiting pedigree that shines brightly, Jake Diebler, head coach of the Buckeyes, couldn’t have made a better move to replace the transfered Zed Key. Bradshaw’s high school prowess was undeniable, earning him the status of a five-star prospect in the 247Sports composite rankings, where he was hailed as the No. 4 overall recruit and the top center of his class in 2023.
During his freshman year at Kentucky, Bradshaw appeared in 26 games and earning 10 starts, all before February. Despite limited playing time, he showcased his skills, averaging 4.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks per game, demonstrating his potential in just under 14 minutes of play per contest.
Hailing from New Jersey, Bradshaw’s journey to Ohio State was not initially on the radar during his high school recruitment. However, mutual interest blossomed between the two sides following his entry into the transfer portal, culminating in a visit to campus during the Buckeyes’ spirited spring football game.
Looking ahead, Bradshaw is poised to provide invaluable support to returning starting center Felix Okpara, who recently announced his return to Ohio State. Alongside standout players like sophomore forward Devin Royal, sophomore center Austin Parks, and redshirt junior forward Kalen Etzler, Bradshaw adds depth and skill to the team’s formidable frontcourt lineup.
In assessing Bradshaw’s impact, Jay Hazze, host of the College Huddle and an authority on Kentucky sports, emphasized Bradshaw’s versatility, stating, “Bradshaw is a big who can shoot the three, spacing the floor. He needs to put on weight but is very athletic with quick bounce off the floor. Big pick up for the Buckeyes. Great kid off the court as well.”
With the Buckeyes’ roster taking shape, Diebler and his coaching staff remain focused on further strengthening the team. Following recent departures, including Jamison Battle and Scotty Middleton, attention now turns to securing additional talent, particularly in the wing and guard positions. As they continue to build for the upcoming season, Ohio State has its sights set on players who can provide a 3-point threat, further enhancing their offensive arsenal.
