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Rick Barnes scores another big offseason win for the Tennessee Vols

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated 4/25/24

Rick Barnes scored another huge win for the Tennessee Vols basketball program this week.

On Thursday morning, Ohio State transfer Felix Okpara committed to Tennessee.

The former four-star recruit, who stands 6-foot-11, averaged 6.6 points per game and 2.4 blocks per game this past season for the Buckeyes.

Okpara is the second transfer player that Barnes and the Vols have landed this offseason. Hofstra transfer Darlingstone Dubar committed to Tennessee earlier this month.

BREAKING: Ohio State transfer center Felix Okpara has committed to Tennessee, he tells @On3sports.

The 6-11 sophomore averaged 6.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game this past season. Former 4⭐️ recruit. https://t.co/ZxsWKEhOyH pic.twitter.com/RpHy9soH7w
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) April 25, 2024

Landing a big man like Okpara was a must for Tennessee with Jonas Aidoo and Tobe Awaka recently entering the transfer portal.

Okpara isn't a huge threat on the offensive side of the court, but he'll bring plenty of value as a defender. He's a rim protector who can block shots and secure rebounds. Okpara should immediately help with one of Tennessee's biggest issues from this past season -- defending against elite big men.

Tennessee is also still in the mix to land Charlotte transfer forward Igor Milicic. On Tuesday, CBS Sports' Jon Rothstein described the Vols as the favorites for Milicic.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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