NEW SIGNING: 8.5-Foot Basketball Phenom Stuns Nation, Chooses Ohio State in Historic Commitment
In a move that has sent shockwaves through college basketball and captivated sports media across the globe, 18-year-old basketball phenom Malachi “The Mountain” Reddick has officially committed to Ohio State University. Standing an unprecedented 8 feet 6 inches tall, Reddick is now the tallest known NCAA basketball recruit in history—and perhaps the most physically dominant prospect ever seen in any sport.
Hailing from a small town in Arkansas, Reddick rose from local legend to national obsession seemingly overnight. Footage of the towering center dunking without jumping, swatting shots into the upper deck, and passing with the finesse of a point guard went viral during his junior year. He led his high school, Deer Hollow Prep, to a 45–0 season, averaging a mind-bending 42.7 points, 29.3 rebounds, and 12.1 blocks per game. Scouts struggled to find comparables. Sports Illustrated dubbed him “Shaq crossed with Wilt, with a touch of Magic.”
The decision came after months of speculation and high-profile visits. Tennessee and Georgia rolled out red carpets, with Georgia even commissioning a custom-built practice facility with a 12-foot rim in an effort to woo the superhuman center. Reddick’s recruitment became a national media spectacle, drawing comparisons to LeBron James’ decision in 2010 and Zion Williamson’s high school rise.
But in a quiet, surprise announcement aired live on ESPN from the Columbus Convention Center, Reddick pulled a scarlet-and-gray Buckeyes cap from under the table and declared, “I’m taking my game to THE Ohio State University.”
The crowd erupted in stunned applause. Analysts were floored.
“Ohio State just landed a once-in-a-generation—no, once-in-a-history—player,” said Jay Bilas. “This isn’t just about winning a national title. This is about redefining the sport itself.”
Buckeyes head coach Jake Holloway, who was seen visibly emotional during the signing ceremony, called it “a monumental day not just for Ohio State, but for college basketball.” Holloway admitted that OSU had to reinforce weight rooms, customize beds, and even raise door frames in the athletic dorms in anticipation of Reddick’s arrival.
More than just his size, Reddick is known for his quiet demeanor and staggering basketball IQ. Coaches laud his court vision, timing, and humility. He reportedly turned down multi-million-dollar overseas and G-League Ignite offers in order to “play college ball the right way” and get a degree in biomechanical engineering—his passion off the court.
“I’ve always wanted to build something, not just on the court,” Reddick said. “Ohio State gives me that chance.”
Fans in Columbus already refer to him as “The Sky Tree,” and Buckeye merchandise with his silhouette—towering over defenders like a living monument—has shattered pre-order records.
The NCAA is already scrambling to adjust officiating and safety guidelines, as analysts predict Ohio State’s games will require rule adaptations to account for his unique physical profile. Rumors have surfaced that opposing coaches are lobbying for a 14-foot “anti-Reddick” shot arc.
Regardless, the future of college basketball just shifted.
One thing is certain: the Big Ten just got a whole lot taller.
