NASHVILLE – The Tennessee State men's basketball team recently announced the signing of graduate transfer, Zion Griffin.
 
Griffin, a former four-star recruit, transitions to Nashville after spending two years at the University of Illinois Chicago. Prior to UIC, the 6'7" wing spent two seasons at Iowa State and appeared in 47 games.
 
"Zion comes to TSU as a proven player in college basketball..." said Coach Brian "Penny" Collins, "His ability to score and defend will be a priority for our team next year."
 
In 2021-22, Griffin averaged 11.1 points and 4.0 rebounds per game in 27.4 minutes per contest. He made 19 starts in 28 appearances and converted 50.7% from the field. The Chicago native tallied a career-high 27 points and 10 rebounds, his first career double-double, in an overtime victory against Robert Morris (2/19).
 
The relationship between Griffin and Coach Collins stems from high school, when the Hinsdale South graduate averaged 21.1 points and 9.0 rebounds en route to a 21-7 record. According to 247sports, he was the 3^rd-best player in the state of Illinois out of high school. Griffin compiled 1,000 points in two seasons and led his team to a West Suburban Gold title as a senior.
 
"Coach Penny has been my guy since I was a senior in high school…" said Griffin, "I trust that he is going to bring in a hungry group of guys that will come ready to work."
 
"I'm excited for the opportunity to play my last year under him and the staff, also the HBCU vibe is something I'm excited to experience." Griffin admitted.
 
"He is already family and Tiger Nation will be happy he is on our side." said Coach Collins.
 
Griffin will enter the Gentry Center with one year of eligibility as he will look to lead a Tennessee State squad that lost four starters from 2021-22.