Tony Parker Chooses UCLA Over Ohio State

Headed to UCLA

As we mentioned earlier today, Tony Parker was rumored to be heading to UCLA. That's exactly what took place after an hour-long ceremony of his signing.

The 6'9", 270-pound native of Lithonia, Ga., chose the Bruins over Ohio State, Kansas, Duke, Georgia, and Memphis.

This past season, Parker averaged 16.8 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks per game for a Miller Grove (Ga.) team that finished 24-9.

"Duke, Ohio State and UGA: Those three schools were right behind. I love [Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski], I love what he had going, but I just thought UCLA was a better fit for me and the people I was coming in with," Parker said. 

"Ohio State, it doesn't get no better for a big man there. But I just thought I would have to work harder at UCLA and would probably come in with more of a chip on my shoulder."

While missing out on Parker does sting, an earlier commitment from Amedeo Della Valle helps ease the pain, if only slightly.

Keep it at Inside The Shoe for the latest news, updates and opinions on Ohio State athletics.

2012 Basketball Recruit Tony Parker To Announce Decision Today

Will Parker join the Buckeyes?

Tony Parker, a 6-foot-9, 265-pound senior basketball center from Miller Grove High in Lithonia, Georgia, will announce his college choice in a 3 p.m. news conference Monday at his school. He has a final list of Kansas University, UCLA, Georgia, Duke and Ohio State.

The 20th-rated player in the Class of 2012 is said to be favoring UCLA. With the low numbers the Buckeyes have, Thad Matta would sure love to land this kid and it's certainly a possibility.

Scouting Report via 247Sports: Showed an excellent motor while playing for the Georgia Stars at the Nike EYBL in Los Angeles. Uses body well to establish position on the block, and can score with either hand around the basket. 

Has an ability to square up defenders in the mid-range and make a move toward the basket. Parker can get up and down the court well, and doesn't look like he's maxed out in terms of height just yet. 

Once he fully develops, grows into his body and benefits from an advanced conditioning program the sky is the limit for the versatile athlete.

Keep it at Inside The Shoe for the latest news, updates and opinions on Ohio State athletics.