NORMAN — The Oklahoma men’s roster for next season is close to complete.
It was announced the process included one addition and two subtractions Thursday.
The addition was the signing of junior college forward Casey Arent.
Arent, a 6-foot-10, 240-pounder from Penryn, Calif., averaged 19.1 points and 11.4 rebounds per game as a sophomore this past season at Sierra College in Rocklin, Calif. He shot 51.6 percent from the field, 37.5 percent from 3-point range (12-for-32) and 62.1 percent from the free throw line (82-for-132) while also averaging 2.3 blocks per contest. He recorded 17 double-doubles.
“Casey will be a very nice addition for us,” Sooner coach Lon Kruger said. “He brings good size and athletic ability, as well as a team-first attitude. He adds length for us on the inside and plays with a great deal of intensity on both ends of the floor.”
The subtractions were forward Nick Thompson and junior-college forward Robert Goff.
Goff signed with OU in November prior to his sophomore season at Hutchinson (Kan.) Community College. When Goff signed, it was to play for former Sooner coach Jeff Capel. When he was fired last month, it led to a change of heart. He asked OU to release him from the letter of intent.
Thompson, who arrived at OU from the junior college ranks last season, played in 17 of OU’s 32 games. He averaged 4.4 points, 3.3 rebounds and 17.1 minutes per game. However, he did not play in 14 of OU’s last 15 games.
“Nick has expressed an interest to be closer to home,” Kruger said. “We’re understanding of that and wish him the best at his next stop.”
The Sooners can award at least one more scholarship for next season. The number could grow to two, depending on what happens with forward Kyle Hardrick. He did not play in the second half last season, so he could “focus on academics.”
He’s still a member of the team, but that could change if he’s unable to get his grades in order.
