Five-Star Recruit Anthony Thompson Commits to Ohio State NOW

BREAKING: Five-star senior Anthony Thompson has officially committed to Ohio State, marking the Buckeyes’ highest-ranked men’s basketball recruit in over a decade. This significant announcement comes as Thompson chose Ohio State over strong contenders like Indiana and Texas, delivering a major victory for head coach Jake Diebler in a fiercely competitive recruiting landscape.

Thompson’s commitment represents a pivotal moment for the Buckeyes, who have not landed a five-star recruit since D’Angelo Russell in 2014. The 6-foot-8 forward from Western Reserve Academy is currently ranked No. 13 in the SC Next 100, solidifying his status as the top player in the Midwest. His decision is expected to have an immediate impact on Ohio State’s future.

“My relationship with the coaching staff was different,” Thompson told ESPN. “They recruited me hard and consistently made me a priority.” He emphasized Diebler’s commitment to player development, stating, “I know I can rely on him to help me.” This connection, combined with the Buckeyes’ energetic practice environment, proved to be a deciding factor in his choice.

Thompson’s recruitment included visits to powerhouse programs like Michigan, Kentucky, and North Carolina. However, the consistent communication and personalized attention he received from Diebler helped Ohio State stand out. “Their plan is to help me become the best player I can be and prepare me for the NBA,” Thompson explained, underscoring his long-term aspirations.

On the court, Thompson is praised for his exceptional shooting ability and versatile skill set. He boasts a remarkable 7-foot-4¼ wingspan, making him a formidable offensive threat. Last season, he averaged 22.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists on the Adidas 3SSB circuit, showcasing his efficiency with a shooting percentage of nearly 59% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc.

His performance peaked in July, where he scored over 30 points multiple times during a five-game stretch, including a standout game with 35 points at a championship event. This scoring prowess is expected to translate well to the collegiate level, making him an immediate impact player for the Buckeyes.

Thompson joins Ohio State’s 2026 recruiting class alongside fellow Ohio natives: four-star point guard Marcus Johnson and four-star forward Alex Smith. This trio is poised to elevate the Buckeyes’ program, injecting local talent with high potential.

As Ohio State prepares for the upcoming season, Thompson’s commitment is not just a victory in recruiting but a statement of intent for the future. Fans can anticipate exciting developments as he begins his journey in Columbus, with hopes of leading the Buckeyes to success and potentially the NBA.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Thompson and his fellow recruits gear up for what promises to be a transformative season for Ohio State men’s basketball.