Hason Ward

AMES — Iowa State head men’s basketball coach T.J. Otzelberger has announced the addition of VCU transfer Hason Ward. Ward is a 6-foot, 9-inch forward out of St. Thomas, Barbados, who played for VCU the last three seasons. He has two seasons of eligibility remaining.

Ward saw action in 29 games for the Rams during the 2021-22 season, including 24 starts. He led the Rams with 1.5 blocked shots per game, while ranking second with 4.8 rebounds per game. He also averaged 6.5 points per game, while shooting 55.3 percent from the floor. He recorded three double-doubles on the year.

“Hason impacts games with his motor, versatility and competitive spirit,” Otzelberger said. “He’s an elite finisher who excels playing in the open court. Hason notched the best defensive rating in the A-10 this year and can guard all five positions.”

Ward scored in double figures six times, including a pair of 14-point games in wins over St. Peter’s (Nov. 9) and Richmond (Jan. 29). Ward blocked multiple shots in a game 11 times, including at least three or more in four of the first five games of the year last season. He blocked five shots or more in three games, including a career-high six in a win over St. Bonaventure (March 1).

In 79 career games with VCU, Ward made 35 starts. He averaged 5.4 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in his career.