IRVINE, Calif. --- John Ryan, a 6-10, 250-pound center, is transferring to UC Irvine from Fresno State, announced by UCI head coach Russell Turner.

Ryan has signed a written offer of financial aid and will have three years of eligibility remaining with the Anteaters, beginning with the 2012-13 season. He will have to sit out next season, per NCAA transfer rules.

"John is a true center who will provide us with an interior presence when he is eligible to play after a year in our program," Turner said. "He has an innate feel for the game and a high basketball IQ to go along with the ability to score in the post.

"John knows that he will have a year to work hard at improving his game, and if he makes the progress we expect, then he will be an effective player for us for his remaining three years. John is also a high-character guy and an excellent student, and he will be an excellent fit in the UCI community," Turner added.

As a true freshman this past season, Ryan played in 17 games as a reserve center for Fresno State. He appeared in nine WAC games and recorded four points and three rebounds against Idaho Jan. 17.

He averaged 21 points and 14 rebounds as a senior at El Segundo High in 2009-10. Ryan was a two-time, All-Pioneer League first-team member, earning a nomination for the McDonald's All-America team and a spot on the South Bay All-Star team.

He also averaged 4 assists and 4 blocks per game during his senior season when El Segundo knocked off No. 3 seed Crespi in the first round of the CIF Division IV Championship. Coach Rick Sabosky's Eagles finished the season 20-12 overall.

Ryan, a two-time team captain, was named El Segundo High's Most Valuable Player, Best Passer and Best Rebounder.