Bears Dip Into International Pool Again with Commitment from German Center, Thiemann
The Bears dipped into the international talent pool again for 7-0/240 center Lars Thiemann after this weekend’s official visit to Cal.
"I'm happy and proud to announce that I will join Cal next season," Thiemann told ESPN earlier today. "I'm incredibly excited to be a part of Mark Fox's very first recruiting class.
“I couldn't pass on the opportunity to attend such an academically prestigious university while playing college basketball at a level like the Pac-12. They recruited me harder than any other school and I can't wait to arrive on campus in Berkeley. I am ready to take the next step in my career."
Thiemann fills the Bears biggest need in adding a big who can score and rebound and who brings club and international experience to the Bears. While playing for Leverkusen of the German NBBL U19 league last season, he averaged 19 points and 13 rebounds..
Thiemann also played professionally in the German Pro B league, helping Leverkusen win the championship, earning a promotion to the Pro A league next season. Thiemann has also been invited to try out for the German U20 national team, as well.
Thiemann joins a large class of six who will comprise half of the Bears’ roster in 2019-20, joining early signees 6-8/230 Austin, Texas power forward DJ Thorpe, 6-2/180 Toronto point guard Joel Brown, who both reaffirmed their commitment to head coach Mark Fox and staff after his hiring last month. Late signees with Thiemann include 6-10/220 Austrailian center Kuany Kuany, 6-6/210 guard Dimitrios Klonaras and Toronto native 6-2/185 grad transfer guard Kareem South.
Additional recruiting stories:
Cal Adds Grad Transfer Kareem South
Kuany and Coach Talk About Cal Commitment and Signing