NIAGARA UNIV., N.Y. – The Niagara men's basketball program welcomes Alioune Tew (AH-lee-yuhn Too) to the 2015 recruiting class.

"Ali adds size and athletic ability to our front court," head coach Chris Casey said. "At 6-foot-9, he can be a presence around the basket both on defense and offense.  He has great upside and we look forward to coaching him."  

Tew, a 6-foot-9, 215 lbs. forward, was a member of the Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria, Calif. men's basketball program during the 2014-15 season, but missed the entire season after suffering an ACL injury in his left knee on the first official day of practice.

Tew transferred to Hancock College after one season at Utah State University Eastern in Price, Utah where he averaged 6.5 points and 5.6 rebounds per game in 30 games. The Paris, France native played for Levallois of the Espoirs Pro A League (Ligue nationale de Basket) during the 2012-13 season.

Tew selected Niagara over James Madison and received interest from Bradley, Fresno State, Long Beach State, Santa Barbara, Montana State, San Jose State and Norfolk State.

Tew will have three years of eligibility remaining.

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