Tony Woods and Oregon could be an ideal match. The one-time prized recruit gets a chance to start over at a school on a different coast, while the Ducks get a much-needed inside presence.
Neither is a sure thing. But it’s smart for both sides.
Woods made headlines last year when an alleged assault on his girlfriend landed him a suspension from the school. He eventually pleaded guilty to one count of misdemeanor assault and had to complete 100 hours of community service and an anger management program. He was granted a release from the program in October.
The experience was “humbling” as Woods moved to Louisville, worked for UPS and eventually settled on the Ducks. But expect him to deal with added scrutiny when he arrives in Oregon, at least until he proves there won’t be any off-court incidents.
As for on the court, Woods remains a tantalizing mix of size and skill.
The 6-11, 250-pound center wasn’t an impact player at Wake, but he’s not far removed from the player scouts saw as an mobile big man who had potential for growth. He’ll certainly get the chance to shine at Oregon. (He’ll be eligible to play immediately.)
The Ducks – coming off a 21-18 season – lost their main post presence in Joevean Catron. They bring in Louisiana Tech transfer Olu Ashaolu, but Woods is far bigger. Pairing those two with returning frontcourt players Jeremy Jacob and E.J. Singler (who really more of a wing) is a dream for coach Dana Altman, who also brings in 5-star recruit Jabari Brown.
But hey, it wouldn’t be Oregon if Altman didn’t have to fit a few pieces together of an odd puzzle.
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