Utah State Transfer Abel Porter Medically Unable To Participate For Ohio State

Earlier this week, the Ohio State Buckeyes got some disappointing news as the program learned key transfer guard Abel Porter would be unable to play for the Buckeyes after being ruled medically unable to participate. Here’s what Ohio State put in its press release on the topic:

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio State men’s basketball head coach Chris Holtmann announced today that point guard Abel Porter, a graduate transfer from Utah State, will not compete for the Buckeyes during the 2020-21 season due to a non-COVID related medical condition that will end his collegiate career.

“This has been a difficult past few weeks for Abel and his family,” Holtmann said. “He is a tremendous person and I know he is very appreciative for the opportunity to be a Buckeye. Abel has expressed how thankful he is for the fantastic medical care he has received. He will remain a part of our program.”

Out of respect for the privacy of Abel and his family, no further details will be available.

Porter joined the Buckeyes in April. The 6-3 guard from Farmington, Utah, was one of only two players to appear and start in every game last year for the 26-8 Aggies. He averaged 25.7 minutes per game and scored in double figures nine times. He totaled 192 points on the year and averaged 5.6 per game.

Porter also posted the following:

During his time at Utah State, Porter played extensively for the Aggies. He played in a total of 95 games and averaged 5.6 points and 3.2 assists per game last season. Porter wasn’t a star, but provided valuable minutes off the bench. He also made some decent offensive contributions and was consistently able to get to the free throw line.

Porter’s absence will make Ohio State’s backcourt just a little bit thinnier this season. Fans are hoping CJ Walker and Duane Washington can hold things together.

Either way, everyone is hoping and praying for all the best for Porter.