John Riek Transferring From Mississippi State Basketball

Backup Center John Riek is transferring from the Mississippi State basketball program, says to a team spokesman.

On Tuesday, Mississippi State head coach Rick Stansbury announced Riek was not enrolled in summer school at MSU and plans on transferring. It was made official today.

Born in Khartoum, Sudan, Riek made a name for himself on the AAU circuit and a showstopping performance at the LeBron James Skills Academy caused Rivals.com eventually named him the best center prospect of 2008. Riek spent time at multiple prep schools and considered going straight to the NBA before a series of injuries derailed his career.

Upon recovery, Mississippi State took a chance on the big man in 2009. Sadly, the promise never translated and Riek averaged a mere 1.2 points and 1.3 rebounds in 5 minutes a game for the Bulldogs this season.

The departure is not expected to impact MSU greatly, though it will be interesting to follow Riek, see where he ends up next and watch as he tries to follow-through on all that promise.

For more reaction, visit Mississippi State blog For Whom The Cowbell Tolls.