Sports

College Basketball’s Shortest Big Man Just Entered The Transfer Portal As A Defensive Lineman

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© Saquan Stimpson/Special to Delaware News Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images


Missouri State basketball star Michael Osei-Bonsu will continue his college career on the gridiron. The forward entered the transfer portal as a defensive lineman according to recent reports.

At 6-foot-4, Osei-Bonsu was one of the shortest big men in the sport last season. He intends to use his frame on the football field next year.

Osei-Bonsu’s height did not prevent him from becoming an all-conference performer. In 2025, he averaged 15.3 points per game to go along with 7.4 boards. He led the Bears in steals, rebounds, and blocks.

He transferred to Missouri State after spending two seasons at Vincennes, where he was a JUCO All-American. His time on the court is now done. He intends to leave school as a football player.

Michael Osei-Bonsu is in the transfer portal.

College football writer Pete Thamel reports that a switch will be made from the hardwood to the gridiron. He plans to play either tight end or defensive tackle.

He certainly has the size at a touch under 300 pounds. He has the motor, too, as well as the athleticism.

ESPN says the forward boasts a vertical leap of 35 inches. That would certainly prove beneficial as a pass catcher. He was applauded for his effort while being an absolute menace on the boards.

With that being said, there is no indication of football experience. His Missouri State bio details only basketball performance. It also shows that he played both high school and AAU hoops for four seasons, leaving little time for outside pursuits.

That does not mean he can’t be successful.

In the past, we’ve seen players successfully make the jump across sports. Tony Gonzalez and Antonio Gates immediately come to mind.

Jimmy Graham took a similar path, suiting up a season for the Miami Hurricanes football team after exhausting his basketball eligibility. He then went onto have a fantastic NFL career.

The move is not unprecedented, but it is uncommon. Michael Osei-Bonsu hopes to be the next to make a smooth transition. It will be interesting to follow his recruitment in the offseason.