by SAM LANCE
Bryant has picked up a commitment from Saint Louis transfer forward Daniel Rivera, per a source.
Rivera — the 6-foot-7, 225-pound forward from San Juan, Puerto Rico — sat out this past season with SLU because of a broken foot. He was redshirted.
“First off, making a decision like this was very hard for me.” he said. “Just hearing from high to mid majors schools were interested in me was a very humbling honor. It shows that the work I have done to this point in time has not gone unnoticed.
“However, I had to make a decision that not only benefited me, but my family as well. Over the last few years, I have not been able to see my family and they have not been able to see me play. Them having to travel so far out to see me would’ve been a huge financial burden on them and I didn’t want to do that. With Bryant, it is close to where I can travel home when needing a mental break or even just some good home cooking. They will also be able to come and see me more than once a season. Which I am extremely happy about.”
The San Juan native started his career at Odessa Community College in Texas, where he averaged 9.2 points per game on 57.5 percent shooting during his freshman campaign. Rivera also tallied a team-high 49 blocks and 38 steals at Odessa.
Rivera is known for his defensive prowess and will bring energy on that end to Bryant. The forward has three years of eligibility left to utilize.
“I believe that with Bryant I will be able to show my game completely,” he said. “I will bring a physical presence along the perimeter and also help out with the team’s spacing on the court. In me, they will have someone that can not only attack the rim but also be able to keep defenses honest due being able to shoot, drive and pass at a high level . My skills will be able to help my other teammates not only find their game but also be able to build towards the future. Coach Grasso and his staff have a plan which I am super excited to see how this unfolds. #goBULLDOGS”
Bryant has lost five players to the transfer portal this spring. Rivera is the first portal addition for Jared Grasso this offseason. Bryant finished 17-13 last season with an 8-8 record in Northeast Conference play.
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