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Ohio State center Felix Okpara makes dramatic U-turn from ‘run it back’ post after missing out on March Madness
Okpara's Buckeyes are coming off a difficult season
OHIO State star Felix Okpara has made a major U-turn on his future.
The 6-foot-11 center has entered the NCAA transfer portal — just three weeks after vowing to "run it back" with the Buckeyes.
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Okpara, 20, announced his return to Ohio State on April 1.
"I am excited and grateful to announce I am 100% committed to running it back with OSU and Buckeye Nation!" he wrote in a social media post.
"Can't wait to start a new chapter with Coach Diebs, my returning teammates, and the new staff and players to get Ohio State back to our rightful spot at the top of the Big Ten.
"Thank you for the love and support from the fans and fellow students and a special thanks to The Foundation, my family, and THE Ohio State University family for being with me through this amazing journey."
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Since then, Kentucky transfer Aaron Bradshaw has committed to the Buckeyes.
Bradshaw was a five-star, McDonald's All-American recruit and the No. 5 prospect in the country last year, per 247Sports.
The 7-foot-1 center averaged 4.9 points and 3.3 rebounds in 26 games for the Wildcats.
And his arrival seemingly caused Okpara to reconsider his future.
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On Sunday, the Nigeria-born big man shared he would be leaving Ohio State in a farewell post on social media.
"Thank you Buckeye Nation for two amazing years," he wrote.
"Thank you for embracing me and supporting me through the ups and downs.
"I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to have represented the Scarlet and Gray.
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"As I thought of the player I want to become and the program moving forward in a new direction, I believe it is in my best interest to continue my pursuit of my dream at a different school.
"I wish Ohio State and especially Coach Diebs the best!"
Okpara started in 34 of the 35 games he played for the Buckeyes last season.
The center averaged 6.6 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks.
As I thought of the player I want to become and the program moving forward in a new direction, I believe it is in my best interest to continue my pursuit of my dream at a different school.
Felix Okpara
Ohio State ended last season with a 22-14 record before losing to Illinois in the Big 10 tournament quarterfinals.
The Buckeyes then participated in the National Invitation Tournament and reached the quarters again.
Their season ended with a 79-77 loss to Georgia.
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Poor results led to the firing of head coach Chris Holtmann 25 games into the campaign.
Holtmann's assistant Jake Diebler took charge of the Buckeyes before being made the new head coach in March.