The number 2 ranked Arizona Wildcats just got a little bigger as the team received news from the NCAA that seven-foot center Dusan Ristic has been cleared to play for the school this season.
Ristic, a Serbian, will be added to an already sizeable lineup that includes returning frontcourt players Kaleb Tarczewski, another seven-footer, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson and Brandon Ashley who is back from a foot injury sustained last February.
Ristic played sparsely in both the Adriatic League and in the EuroCup which caused the NCAA to question his amateur status. However, they ruled his time on the floor did nothing to end his amateurism. He played last season at Sunrise Christian Prep Academy in Wichita, Kansas.
As is the case with most European players, Ristic has shown potential to be a versatile post player. He has the ability to dominate the interior with his 245 pound frame, but he can also knock down perimeter jumpers. He gives Wildcats head coach Sean Miller an intriguing option at the post position.
Ristic’s presence makes the Wildcats an even greater threat to win the Pac-12 title and go deep into the NCAA Tournament.
