BOOOOOM! Ohio State men’s basketball adds Louisiana transfer guard Cedric Russell

It has been a busy BOOOOMing week for the Buckeyes as on the heels of a number of major football commits, the men’s basketball team just picked up the commitment of a veteran, experienced guard. Former Louisiana guard Cedrick Russell has reportedly committed to continue his playing career with Ohio State. Thanks to the NCAA granting an extra year of eligibility, Russell should have up to two years in Columbus.

The fifth-year senior led the Ragin’ Cajuns in scoring last season with 17.2 points per game while also chipping in 3.2 rebounds and 1.2 assists. His efforts landed him on the All-Sun Belt first team was a leader nationally (20th) in three-point shooting, connecting on 40% of his attempts from distance.

The 6-foot-2, 190-pounder shot 41.9% from the floor and 76.7% from the line last season, and will likely be called upon to fill the Duane Washington Jr.-shaped hole in the Ohio State lineup. He will join fellow transfers Jamari Wheeler and Jimmy Sotos as the experienced guards in the back court, with youngsters Meechie Johnson, Eugene Brown III, and true-freshman Malaki Branham also in the mix.

Earlier this week, head coach Chris Holtmann said on the radio about the possibility of adding another player to the team, “It has to be the right fit for our roster if we’re going to add another perimeter player.”

As Pete Nakos noted for Lettermen Row, the connection between Russell and new OSU assistant Tony Skinn likely played a part in landing the transfer. Skinn previously coached at Louisiana Tech, and since Russell only entered the portal last Wednesday, the familiarity likely helped with the speedy decision.

Welcome to Buckeye Nation, Cedric. You already look good in scarlet!

Check out some game highlights from Russell’s 2020-21 season: