Baylor Basketball and Transfer Target Grant Nelson Both Looking Elsewhere

Baylor Basketball's quest to strengthen its roster by adding talented power forwards has taken a new turn. After initial interest, both Baylor and Grant Nelson, a North Dakota State transfer, realized the fit was not ideal and have moved on to other targets.

For Nelson, it looks as if his decision is coming down to Alabama or Arkansas according to Jeff Goodman on Twitter. Meanwhile, the Bears have their attention on last year’s starter Jalen Bridges and Tennessee transfer Olivier Nkamhoua.

Grant Nelson showcased his skills and versatility on the court during his time with the Bison. Last year, he averaged an impressive 17.9 points per game and 9.3 rebounds per game while shooting at a commendable 52% from the field. However, his three-point shooting percentage of 27% may have raised some concerns. 

With Nelson no longer in the mix, Baylor Basketball is directing its focus towards other power forward prospects who better complement the team's playing style and strategic objectives. The coaching staff is actively pursuing Jalen Bridges, last year's starting forward who withdrew from the NBA Draft, and Olivier Nkamhoua, a transfer from the Tennessee Volunteers.

Bridges, who averaged 10.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.0 assist in 27.3 minutes per game this past season in Waco, is deciding between turning professional and playing in Australia’s NBL and returning to Baylor for his senior year. Bridges shot 50.6% from the field, 32.4% from three and 77.8% from the free throw line through the 2022-23 season.

Nkamhoua, a 6-10 native of Finland, averaged 10.8 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 25.3 minutes per game for the Vols last season. He shot 51.3% from the field, 33.3% from deep and 69.9% from the free throw line throughout the year. Nkamhoua also knows incoming Baylor freshman Miro Little, a fellow Finn. The battle for Olivier looks to be coming down to West Virginia and Baylor.