Former UAB C Sarikopoulos transfers to Ohio State

Jul 18, 2008 - 1:23 AM COLUMBUS, Ohio (Ticker) -- Former UAB center Zisis Sarikopoulos will transfer to Ohio State, the school announced Thursday.

Sarikopoulos appeared in 20 games during his freshman season for the Blazers, averaging 1.8 points and 1.1 rebounds during the 2007-08 campaign.

The 7-footer averaged 7.5 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.0 blocks for the Under-18 Greece national team prior to joining UAB.

"Zisis will give us a physical presence and some size," Ohio State coach Thad Matta said. "We have a year to work with him on getting stronger and learning our system. He entered college at only 17 years old. He will help immediately in practice. We are excited about his decision to join our program."

Sarikopoulos will sit out the 2008-09 season due to NCAA transfer rules and will have three seasons of eligibility beginning with the 2009-10 season.