Ohio State has made a significant leap in basketball recruiting by securing a commitment from Anthony Thompson, a five-star senior. His decision marks the Buckeyes’ highest-ranked recruit since 2014. Thompson, who hails from Western Reserve Academy in Ohio, chose Ohio State over Indiana, solidifying a major win for assistant coach Jake Diebler.
Buckeyes’ Recruiting Strategy
Thompson was also pursued by several top-tier programs, including Texas, Michigan, Kentucky, and North Carolina. He highlighted his strong connection with the coaching staff as a pivotal factor in his commitment. “They recruited me hard and consistently made me a priority,” he explained. “Coach Diebler really cares about all his players.”
Player Profile
- Name: Anthony Thompson
- Height: 6 feet 8 inches
- Wingspan: 7 feet 4¼ inches
- Position: Forward
- High School: Western Reserve Academy, Ohio
- Ranking: No. 13 in SC Next 100
As a left-handed forward, Thompson possesses exceptional shooting skills and body control. His ability to score from various positions on the floor makes him an immediate asset to the Buckeyes. Known for his high-level touch, Thompson averaged 22.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists on the Adidas 3SSB circuit.
Performance Metrics
Thompson’s efficiency is noteworthy. He achieved the following statistics during the spring and summer:
| Statistic | Figures |
|---|---|
| Field Goal Percentage | 59% |
| Free Throw Percentage | 87.5% |
| 3-Point Percentage | 40% |
| 3-Pointers per Game | 2 |
His standout performances included scoring over 30 points four times in five games during the Palmetto Road Championships. In one of his best outings, he scored 35 points later in July.
Future Prospects
Thompson is now poised to contribute significantly to Ohio State. With a comprehensive development plan from Coach Diebler, he aims to enhance his skills and possibly reach the NBA. “I am not focused on being one-and-done,” Thompson stated, demonstrating his commitment to growth and teamwork. He finds excitement in his role as part of the Buckeyes’ upcoming season and believes in the coaching staff’s vision for his future.
Thompson joins a promising 2026 recruiting class that includes four-star prospects Marcus Johnson and Alex Smith, both from Ohio. The Buckeyes are building a strong foundation in their basketball program with these elite recruits.
