UGA basketball adds Illinois transfer RJ Melendez

Georgia basketball picks up a commitment from Illinois transfer RJ Melendez

The Georgia Bulldogs’ 2023-2024 basketball roster is taking shape. Georgia basektball and head coach Mike White have added a commitment from Illinois transfer RJ Melendez.

RJ Melendez brings NCAA Tournament experience to Georgia. Melendez played 26 minutes and scored 10 points in Illinois’ NCAA Tournament loss to Arkansas.

Melendez is a former four-star recruit in the class of 2021. Melendez played high school basketball for Central Pointe Christian in Kissimmee, Florida. Melendez was the No. 94 recruit and No. 18 shooting forward. The 6-foot-7, 205-pound shooting forward was born in Arecibo, Puerto Rico.

Illinois Fighting Illini guard RJ Melendez dribbles the ball against Arkansas Razorbacks guard Nick Smith Jr. Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Melendez played in 54 games and started 19 total games for Illinois across the last two seasons. He will have two years of eligibility remaining and figures to play a large role for Georgia.

Last season, the former four-star recruit recorded 6.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game. Melendez played an average of 21.5 minutes per game.

Georgia’s Kario Oquendo remains in the transfer portal. Georgia’s KyeRon Lindsay has already transferred to Texas Tech after entering the portal in December.

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