Sure! Here’s an extended, in-depth news article version of the story:
Aaron Bradshaw Commits to Memphis: Former Five-Star Prospect Looks to Reset Career in the American Athletic Conference
MEMPHIS, TN — April 23, 2025 — In a move that could help redefine both his career and the Tigers’ frontcourt rotation, 7-foot-1 center Aaron Bradshaw has officially committed to the University of Memphis. The former McDonald’s All-American is transferring from Ohio State after just one season, making Memphis his third school in as many years.
Bradshaw’s decision was confirmed Wednesday afternoon, as first reported by On3 Sports. The highly touted sophomore was one of the most sought-after high school prospects in the country just two years ago, ranked among the nation’s top five players in the class of 2023. However, his college journey has been anything but smooth, and this latest move represents a fresh start with a proven program.
From Bluegrass to Buckeye Country to Beale Street
Bradshaw began his college career at Kentucky, arriving in Lexington amid considerable hype. As a freshman, he showed flashes of his potential but was limited by injuries and inconsistent minutes. He transferred to Ohio State ahead of the 2024–25 season, seeking a bigger role and a chance to reestablish himself.
While he earned more playing time in Columbus, Bradshaw’s sophomore campaign remained underwhelming statistically. He averaged 6.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks per game. Most notably, his rebounding rate dipped sharply, falling from 9.6 boards per 40 minutes as a freshman to just 6.5 at Ohio State.
Despite the struggles, Bradshaw’s size, athleticism, and pedigree continue to make him an intriguing prospect. Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway, known for his player development and track record with big men, now gets the chance to help Bradshaw tap into his full potential.
Tigers Reload with Size and Upside
The timing of Bradshaw’s arrival is significant for Memphis, which is coming off one of its strongest seasons in recent memory. The Tigers went 29-6 in 2024–25, sweeping both the American Athletic Conference regular-season and tournament titles and establishing themselves as one of the nation’s top mid-major programs.
However, the team now faces a major frontcourt overhaul, with all three of its starting forwards graduating. Bradshaw could slot in immediately as a key contributor, especially if he’s able to recapture the form that made him one of the most talked-about prospects in the country.
For Coach Hardaway and his staff, Bradshaw’s arrival adds length, rim protection, and a high ceiling to a team that is aiming to stay atop the AAC and make a deeper push in the NCAA Tournament.
Ohio State’s Portal Exodus Continues
Bradshaw’s departure also underscores the turbulence at Ohio State, where all five members of last year’s transfer class have now exited the program. Meechie Johnson Jr. is returning to South Carolina, while Sean Stewart has also re-entered the portal. Micah Parrish and Ques Glover have both exhausted their college eligibility.
This turnover leaves the Buckeyes with a thinned-out rotation heading into 2025–26. The team’s current options at center include Christoph Tilly, a transfer from Santa Clara; sophomore Ivan Njegovan, who saw limited action last season; and incoming freshman A’mare Bynum, a four-star recruit with strong upside.
Ohio State’s staff will likely remain active in the transfer portal to fill the remaining roster gaps and regain some much-needed frontcourt depth.
A Defining Year Ahead
As for Bradshaw, the 2025–26 season could be a make-or-break campaign. With two years of eligibility remaining, he still has time to turn his story around, but expectations will follow him to Memphis. The Tigers are hoping that under Hardaway’s guidance and in a winning environment, Bradshaw will finally emerge as the impact player many envisioned during his prep days.
The move south offers Bradshaw a clean slate — and perhaps his best shot yet at delivering on the potential that made him a five-star recruit and a household name before he ever played a minute of college basketball.
About The Author
