AT 6’9” and just shy of 300 pounds, freshman center Cameron Ridley began his collegiate career as the big man on campus. But as Texas started piling up the losses, Ridley started shedding the weight. Stringent workout sessions and healthier eating have contributed to the effort, and Ridley’s progress hasn’t gone unnoticed.
“He’s down to 274,” head coach Rick Barnes said, “which is a long way from where he started.” Ridley’s weight loss has turned …
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into the Longhorns’ gain. In 15 starts this season, he’s averaging five points and five rebounds. He also leads the team in blocks with 36.
The freshman started Texas’ game against Kansas State with a bang, slamming
home a dunk on a pass from Sheldon McClellan in the first few minutes.
Things eventually went south for the Longhorns, and Ridley finished with just one basket and two rebounds in 11 minutes against the Wildcats. But like the Longhorns, Ridley continues to show bursts of promise. His best performance came in the EA Sports Maui Invitational against Mississippi State when he scored eight points, grabbed a season-high 12 rebounds and blocked five shots.
He’s scored in double digits twice — against Georgetown and UCLA in consecutive games. Against the Hoyas and Bruins, Ridley logged 65 minutes and was a combined 9-of-14 shooting from the field. “He’s worked hard all year,” Barnes said. “He’s worked on getting his weight down. He’s done a better job with his balance … so he can finish shots. I’m happy for him.”
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