Dec. 9, 2012; Pullman, WA, USA; Washington State Cougars forward D.J. Shelton (23) fights for position after a free throw against Fresno State Bulldogs center Robert Upshaw (30) during the second half at the Beasley Performing Arts Coliseum. The Cougars would go onto beat the Bulldogs by a final score of 59-50. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Former Fresno State center Robert Upshaw has decided to transfer to Washington. Upshaw had recently taken visits to both Washington and Oregon, after being dismissed from the Fresno State basketball team in August.
“I had a nice visit with both Washington and Oregon,” Upshaw told ESPN.com. “I just felt like Washington was a better fit for me as a player.”
The former four-star recruit had a disappointing freshman season at Fresno State, averaging 4.1 points and 3.8 rebounds per game. He turned down offers from Georgetown, Louisville and multiple Pac-12 programs to stay home and play for the Bulldogs.
He was suspended twice, eventually leading to his dismissal from the team for “violations of Athletic Department policy.”
“I went through a tough period at Fresno State,” Upshaw told ESPN.com. “I had some maturity problems and didn’t focus on what was in front of me. It all made me realize that I need to focus on what’s important. I love the game.”
Because he is a transfer, Upshaw will have to sit out the 2013-2014 season. After that, he will have three years of eligibility remaining.
After Upshaw’s commitment, the Huskies have one more spot left in the Class of 2014. Forward Zylan Cheatham (South Mountain HS/Phoenix, Ariz.) is reportedly the Huskies top target.
Jim Basnight had originally reported that Upshaw would transfer to Oregon on Saturday, but quickly backtracked.
ESPN.com was the first to report Upshaw’s commitment to the Huskies.