PROVO — The BYU basketball program will welcome yet another transfer into the fold next season.
Jake Shoff, a 6-foot-8 sophomore forward, is leaving Weber State to become a Cougar, he told the Deseret News on Wednesday. Shoff, a former all-stater from American Fork High, will sit out next season as per NCAA transfer rules and will have two years of eligibility remaining.
"This will allow me to play closer to home so my family will be able to watch my games," Shoff said. "BYU has a great heritage and I'm excited to play there."
Midway through last season, Shoff said, he had some concerns about his situation at Weber State. After the season, he met with coach Joe Cravens and received a release from his scholarship.
"When I decided to transfer, I didn't know BYU was interested in me," Shoff said. "After I had an interview with Coach (Steve) Cleveland, I felt good about what he was telling me. He was straightforward. He gained my respect the first 20 minutes I was with him. He has a good thing going and he knows what he is doing. I look forward to playing for him. It's just a better fit for me at BYU. I know I can help BYU win games."
Shoff started 17 games for the Wildcats last year and averaged 7.4 points and a team-high six rebounds per game.
Earlier this week, guard Ricky Bower announced he is transferring to BYU from Wisconsin.
E-mail: jeffc@desnews.com