Texas Tech basketball: Ramifications of Deshawn Corprew’s departure

Tech could really use Joel Ntambwe this year

In addition to Clarke and Holyfield, there’s another transfer on the Red Raider roster who could be a huge factor this year. But before sophomore Joel Ntambwe can be factored into Beard’s plans, the sophomore transfer from UNLV will have to be granted a waiver for immediate eligibility from the NCAA.

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That’s a motion that has already been filed by Tech and Beard believes that Ntambwe has a strong case. Most of his argument revolves around the fact that UNLV fired head coach Marvin Menzies this offseason.

Ntambwe is a 6-foot-9 forward who averaged an impressive 11.8 points and 5.5 rebounds last year for the Runnin’ Rebels. And on this year’s Tech squad, he would certainly be an asset in that he can guard four and sometimes all five positions on the court.

That’s something that made Corprew so valuable. He was a versatile defender whose strength allowed him to muscle up against taller and bigger players.

Ntambwe could help in that regard this year, especially for a Tech team that lost Tariq Owens and Norense Odiase. Athletic and versatile, the native of the Congo played both small and power forward last year, the latter of which he stepped into when an injury to a teammate necessitated the move.

Right now, Tech has only two players (Holyfield and freshman Russel Tchewa) over 6-foot-7. That’s where a guy the size of Ntambwe would be a huge addition.

While Corprew was not nearly that tall, he played like he was. He frequently out-rebounded bigger players and was not afraid to do battle on the low blocks. The had the mentality of a wolverine and that’s going to be missed this year. If Tambwe is able to play right away, he could help bring some of that physicality and toughness to the team to offset Corprew’s absence.