BREAKING: Oklahoma Basketball Lands Commitment from Alabama Transfer Forward Derrion Reid

In a significant development for the Oklahoma Sooners basketball program, head coach Porter Moser has secured a major commitment from former Alabama forward Derrion Reid, a player who was once a highly touted 5-star prospect. The 6-foot-7 forward, who transferred to Oklahoma from Alabama, brings with him a combination of raw talent, potential, and high-level experience that could make an immediate impact on the Sooners’ lineup for the upcoming season.

This move is seen as a strategic addition to an Oklahoma program looking to return to prominence in the competitive Big 12 Conference. The commitment of Reid also signals that Moser and his staff are prioritizing building a team that can challenge for both conference and national success in the near future.

Reid, originally from the East Coast, has been on the radar of basketball scouts for several years. As a high school player, he was ranked among the top prospects in the country, receiving accolades for his ability to impact the game both offensively and defensively. Standing 6-foot-7 with a solid build, Reid has the physical tools to play multiple positions, particularly as a forward with the versatility to stretch the floor and defend across various matchups.

During his time in high school, Reid was highly regarded for his athleticism, defensive prowess, and rebounding ability. His recruitment saw him landing at Alabama, where he joined a talented Crimson Tide team under head coach Nate Oats. However, despite his highly touted status, Reid’s collegiate career at Alabama was a mix of promise and challenges.

At Alabama, Reid faced stiff competition for playing time in a deep rotation, and his development was somewhat stunted by inconsistency in his performances. The forward showed flashes of his potential, especially with his ability to defend on the perimeter and in the post. However, the pressure to make an immediate impact on a team with championship aspirations may have contributed to some of the struggles he experienced in his first couple of seasons.

While his time at Alabama didn’t fully materialize as expected, Reid’s decision to transfer to Oklahoma represents a fresh start and a chance to refine his game under Moser’s guidance. With Oklahoma’s emphasis on developing well-rounded players and building a team-oriented culture, Reid is expected to have the opportunity to showcase his full potential.

Oklahoma, like many other programs, has been aggressive in the transfer portal, looking to add talent to a roster that has shown promise but needs key contributors to take the program to the next level. Reid’s commitment gives the Sooners a player who has a strong foundation and can immediately step into a larger role with the team.

Head coach Porter Moser, known for his defensive-minded coaching style and ability to develop players, is well-equipped to help Reid refine his game. Oklahoma has long been known for producing top-tier basketball talent, and Moser’s success with previous programs, including his work at Loyola-Chicago, speaks to his ability to develop players and build a team-first culture. The combination of Moser’s coaching acumen and Reid’s raw talent creates a tantalizing prospect for the Sooners’ future.

Reid’s decision to transfer to Oklahoma also reflects a broader trend in college basketball where players are seeking programs that allow for greater opportunity, development, and playing time. At Alabama, Reid was often buried on the depth chart, especially with the team’s depth and focus on winning immediately. Oklahoma, on the other hand, presents Reid with an opportunity to step into a prominent role, potentially becoming a cornerstone of the team’s future success.

Furthermore, the Sooners have been active in the recruiting world, and Reid’s decision to join Oklahoma aligns with Moser’s vision of building a competitive, dynamic squad that can contend in the Big 12. By adding a former 5-star recruit like Reid, Oklahoma not only strengthens its frontcourt but also boosts its ability to compete against the league’s top programs, including Kansas, Texas, and Baylor.

Derrion Reid’s game is multifaceted, and he brings a skill set that could significantly enhance Oklahoma’s roster. His 6-foot-7 frame gives him the ability to be a matchup nightmare for opponents, especially when he plays as a stretch forward who can both shoot and finish around the basket. During his time at Alabama, Reid flashed potential as a solid mid-range shooter, and if he can develop a consistent three-point shot, he could become a versatile offensive weapon for the Sooners.

On defense, Reid has the physicality to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset in Moser’s defensive schemes. His length and athleticism give him the ability to contest shots both in the post and on the perimeter. In the Big 12, where teams often rely on both physicality and pace, Reid’s defensive abilities could be crucial to Oklahoma’s success, particularly in stopping opposing forwards and wings.

Moreover, Reid’s rebounding ability—both offensively and defensively—could be a key asset for a Sooners team that has struggled at times on the boards. His presence could allow Oklahoma to be more competitive in the paint, improving second-chance opportunities and limiting opponents’ offensive rebounds.

Another significant aspect of Reid’s game is his versatility. He can play as a power forward or small forward, providing Moser with flexibility in his lineups. This adaptability allows Oklahoma to experiment with different lineup combinations, maximizing the talents of Reid and other players on the roster.

Reid’s commitment is a significant addition to an already promising Oklahoma team. The Sooners have been slowly building a competitive roster under Moser, and this latest addition could be the missing piece for a team that is eager to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. With Reid, Oklahoma gains a player who can make an immediate impact while still having the potential to grow into a star player under Moser’s tutelage.

For Oklahoma fans, Reid’s commitment brings hope that the program is heading in the right direction. Oklahoma has always been a program with a rich basketball tradition, but in recent years, it has struggled to maintain consistent success. Moser’s appointment as head coach brought renewed optimism, and the addition of Reid adds fuel to that fire.

Reid’s decision also strengthens the Sooners’ presence in the transfer portal. Oklahoma is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for players looking to develop their game and contribute to a program with both immediate and long-term goals. With Reid, Moser has demonstrated that Oklahoma can attract top-tier talent, even from high-profile programs like Alabama.

Looking ahead, Oklahoma will look to build on this momentum. The Sooners are set to compete in the always-competitive Big 12, a league that consistently features some of the best teams in college basketball. Reid’s arrival will bolster Oklahoma’s chances of not only making the NCAA Tournament but potentially making a deep run into March Madness.

For Reid, the move to Oklahoma represents a new chapter in his basketball career. After a relatively quiet stint at Alabama, he now finds himself in a position to be a key contributor for a team that is eager to compete at the highest level. With a renewed focus on development and opportunity, Reid will have the chance to showcase his talents on a bigger stage, and his performance will be crucial in determining Oklahoma’s success in the upcoming season.

For the Sooners, securing Reid’s commitment is just the beginning. As the team prepares for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on the new-look roster, and fans will be watching closely to see how Reid adapts to his new role. Oklahoma’s hopes for success in the Big 12 and beyond may very well rest on the shoulders of this former 5-star prospect, who is looking to fulfill the promise that made him a highly sought-after recruit in the first place.

The addition of Derrion Reid to the Oklahoma basketball program is a game-changer for head coach Porter Moser and the Sooners. With Reid’s combination of size, athleticism, and versatility, he has the potential to become one of the most impactful players in the Big 12. Oklahoma has made a strong statement by landing a player with Reid’s pedigree, and the Sooners are now in a position to challenge for top honors in both the conference and the NCAA Tournament.

This commitment underscores the growing strength of the Oklahoma basketball program and Moser’s ability to attract top-tier talent. As the 2025 season approaches, fans will be eager to see how Reid develops in a new system, and whether he can help lead Oklahoma back to prominence in college basketball.