South Carolina basketball received a massive boost, literally and figuratively, with the commitment of 7’0″ and 290-pound center Christ Essandoko. The French native brings much-needed size to a Gamecocks frontcourt that is undergoing changes that could transform its interior presence for the 2025 campaign.
After stints at Saint Joseph’s and Providence, Essandoko brings valuable experience to Columbia with two years remaining eligibility. His commitment following an official visit speaks volumes about Coach Lamont Paris’s recruiting approach, particularly his emphasis on player development, which resonated with the towering center from Clichy, France.
Rebuilding the Frontcourt After a Challenging Season
Essandoko’s arrival couldn’t be more timely for a Gamecocks squad with eight open roster spots. As the first transfer portal commitment this cycle, the 7-footer addresses South Carolina’s most glaring need following Pringle’s departure, providing immediate depth and experience in a depleted frontcourt.
NEWS: Providence transfer center Christ Essandoko has committed to South Carolina, he tells @On3sports.
The 7-0 sophomore averaged 4.3 points and 3.9 rebounds per game this season. https://t.co/nRz1zVcIIM pic.twitter.com/f67IVZLZxK
— Joe Tipton (@TiptonEdits) March 29, 2025
While his most recent numbers at Providence, 4.3 points and 3.9 rebounds per game, appear modest, Essandoko has shown higher potential.
While his most notable numbers at Saint Joseph’s include nine points and 10 rebounds in his collegiate debut against Penn and his first career double-double with 21 points and 12 rebounds in a win over Duquesne, Essandoko has shown higher potential.
The timing of Essandoko’s arrival is crucial as South Carolina looks to rebound from a disappointing 12-20 overall record and dismal 2-16 showing in SEC play. Despite impressive non-conference wins over ranked Clemson 91-88 in overtime and Texas by 84-69, the Gamecocks endured a punishing 13-game losing streak in conference action.
Coach Paris’s system emphasizes balanced offense, utilizing interior and perimeter scoring, which makes Essandoko’s traditional post presence valuable. His shot-blocking ability and rebounding prowess address the defensive weaknesses that plagued the team during close losses last season.
Development Potential and SEC Integration
During his senior year at Winston-Salem Christian National High School, he averaged 8.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game over four recorded games. This background, combined with his 50.7% field goal percentage at Providence, suggests efficiency and potential that could flourish in the right system.
The SEC presents a significantly different challenge than Essandoko’s previous conferences, demanding adjustment to its physical style and elite competition. His substantial frame provides a foundation for success against the conference’s talented big men, potentially giving the Gamecocks a defensive anchor they desperately need.
Essandoko will likely pair with scoring guard Meechie Johnson to create a more balanced attack. His traditional post-play complements Johnson’s versatility, potentially creating inside-out opportunities that were lacking during last season’s struggles.
As a traditional big with some mid-range shooting capability, Essandoko provides offensive stability in the paint while anchoring the defense with shot-blocking skills honed during his high school days. However, improving lateral quickness will be essential for defending in the fast-paced SEC.
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Fan excitement surrounding Essandoko’s commitment reflects a hunger for improvement after last season’s disappointments. With eight roster spots to fill, his addition represents just the beginning of Coach Paris’s rebuilding effort, but it addresses perhaps their most critical need: a player whose ceiling remains tantalizingly high.
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