On Friday, it was announced David Bell, a redshirt sophomore big man on the Ohio State basketball team, intended to transfer from the program.
It didn't take long for Bell to find a new home.
According to multiple reports and first reported by scout.com's Brian Snow, Bell is headed to Jacksonville University to continue his playing career. He must sit out the 2017–18 season and has one year of eligibility remaining.
Ohio St transfer David Bell has committed to Jacksonville University per his HS coach @sonnyjohnson32
— Brian Snow (@BSnowScout) April 12, 2017
Former Ohio State center and Garfield Heights grad David Bell is headed to south to Jacksonville. https://t.co/GqKUK6ejBf
— Matt Goul (@mgoul) April 13, 2017
The Columbus Dispatch's Adam Jardy reported earlier this week Bell, a Cleveland native, intended to transfer to be with his pregnant girlfriend who recently moved to Florida.
Bell confirmed the move Thursday morning:
Just following God's blueprint! Thankful! pic.twitter.com/uZf7mHuyhs
— 1000 #RNF (@db_trey5) April 13, 2017
The 6-foot-9 Bell appeared in just 15 games this past season for the Buckeyes as he was the third center on the roster behind Trevor Thompson and Micah Potter. He averaged 1.3 points and 1.9 rebounds per game.
Bell's departure left Ohio State with just two bigs on its roster in Potter and incoming freshman Kaleb Wesson. The Buckeyes could add a third via grad transfer or a late signee in the 2017 class, or they could get some welcomed news if Thompson opted to return to school for his final season of eligibility. Thompson announced his intentions to turn pro following the season, but it is unclear at this time if he has opted to hire an agent.
Jacksonville University is a member of the Atlantic Sun Conference. The Dolphins went 17-16 last season.
