UC’s Bandaogo declares for NBA Draft, preserves college eligibility

University of Cincinnati senior center Aziz Bandaogo announced Friday his intentions to test the NBA Draft with plans to finish his collegiate career with the Bearcats next year.

Bandaogo earned Honorable Mention All-Big 12 honors this season following an impressive 2022-23 season at Utah Valley. He totaled 49 blocks in 29 games, including 10 over three games late in the season (four in only 15 minutes against No. 14 Baylor). His 1.7 blocks per game ranked second in the Big 12 and were UC's most since Octavius Ellis in 2014-15.

He missed the first four games due to NCAA transfer waiver appeals, then made the most of his debut with eight points and nine rebounds during the 89-54 win over Georgia Tech. He blocked a shot, slammed an alley-oop and helped force a shot clock violation on his first three possessions.

Bandaogo averaged 6.6 points and 7.4 rebounds on the year, the latter leading the team.

Publisher's note: A free press is critical to having well-informed voters and citizens. While some news organizations opt for paid websites or costly paywalls, The Highland County Press has maintained a free newspaper and website for the last 25 years for our community. If you would like to contribute to this service, it would be greatly appreciated. Donations may be made to: The Highland County Press, P.O. Box 849, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133. Please include "for website" on the memo line.