IRVINE, Calif. --- Conor Clifford, a 7-foot center from Ocean View High School, has signed a National Letter of Intent with the UC Irvine men's basketball program, announced by Anteater head coach Russell Turner.

"I'm really excited to add a true big man to our roster with the signing of Conor," Turner said.  "In addition to being a local product, he is a great fit for our program and the UC Irvine community.

"Conor is a tremendous player, student and person of incredible character.  In the past two years, his improvement has been remarkable and I am excited about his future as an Anteater.

"Conor comes from one of the most highly-regarded high school programs in the area," Turner added.  "He has benefitted from great coaching along the way, including the legendary Jim Harris."

Clifford averaged 15 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.3 blocked shots and shot 67 percent from the field this past season for the Seahawks, who were 24-4 overall and won the Golden West League title with a 10-0 mark.

Clifford had 26 points and 13 rebounds in a 92-80 win over Mission Viejo at the Nike Extravaganza in February, and recorded 19 points and eight boards in a 69-51 playoff victory over Redondo Union.

Clifford was named All-CIF 2AA and also to the All-Orange County team by the Orange County Register.

He joins guard Alex Young of Phoenix, Ore., in the incoming freshman class for UCI.  Young, the 2011 Oregon 4A Player of the Year and an all-state first-team selection the last two seasons, signed with the 'Eaters in November.

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