Oklahoma Coach Porter Moser Confirms Tae Davis's Return Pending Medical Clearance
The forward is eligible to practice under the five-for-five rule but must be medically cleared before playing, Moser told reporters Tuesday.
By Eric Coleman ·
Oklahoma men's basketball coach Porter Moser confirmed on Tuesday that forward Tae Davis will return to the Sooners, contingent on receiving medical clearance.
Davis previously left the program to pursue a professional opportunity in the NBA. He suffered a broken foot during that period. The coaching staff maintained contact with him and reserved a roster spot in case he chose to come back.
Moser stated that the program kept the position available. "I always saved a roster spot for him and I told him that," Moser said.
Davis's return is governed by the "five-for-five" eligibility provision. He is currently eligible to practice under these rules. However, he cannot compete in games until a medical team clears his foot. Moser noted that Davis has not yet received that clearance.
The Sooners are preparing for their season opener less than one week from Tuesday. Moser addressed the roster's readiness during a press conference at the Lloyd Noble Center. He described the current group as potentially his most talented on paper, though he acknowledged he has not yet seen the full team perform together.
Injuries have complicated the evaluation process. Dayton Forsythe and Tyler Hendricks have been in concussion protocol. Derrion Reid missed the summer, and Khani Rooths missed much of the offseason. Moser expects Forsythe to be available for the opening game, despite missing the most recent scrimmage.
Moser highlighted the team's roster retention as a positive development. "Best retention we've had in the transfer portal era," Moser said. He also addressed eligibility questions involving B.J. Edwards and Duke Brennan. Brennan recently received clearance, while Edwards has continued practicing. Moser described Edwards as a physical guard with strong defensive instincts.
The coach praised returning guard Xzayvier Brown, calling him one of the better players in the country who is not receiving enough attention. "I think he's one of the better guards in the country nobody's talking about," Moser said. Oklahoma aims to improve its size and athleticism to compete in the SEC. Moser said the team's goals extend beyond simply qualifying for the NCAA Tournament.
Source: KSBI
