Wheeler big man Daniel Giddens is headed to Ohio State. The 6-foot-9 big man from Marietta announced his decision on July 4 through his Twitter account.

Giddens had planned his big announcement for some time, picking his 17th birthday as the best possible time to break the news.

Giddens said he knew shortly after his visit to Ohio State when he knew he was going to be a Buckeye.

"It was the environment and the coaching staff that made them the place," Giddens said on Friday afternoon. "I think it is a place where I can excel at. I just got vibe.

"The whole family loved it. It has a great environment up there. Columbus had open arms for us. They are just loving and kind there. I felt like it was a comfortable place and environment."

The Buckeyes are getting one of the most feared interior post defenders in the country. He's a difference-maker in the post as a shot-blocker and rebounder. His style of play will fit in nicely with the rough and tumble basketball that is played in the Big Ten.

Giddens picked Ohio State over Florida, Indiana, Georgia, Texas A&M and Kansas. He spoke highly of his relationship with Thad Matta and lead recruiter Dave Dickerson.

"The trust I built with coach Matta and Dickerson was big. They will try anything to help their players get to the next level. Coach Matta - he's one of the biggest names in college basketball," Giddens said.

"Coach Matta keeps it real with you. He's trustworthy and you can talk to him about anything. I can't wait to play for him and give him my and for the fans in Columbus."