In a significant development for Ohio State basketball, five-star small forward Anthony Thompson has committed to the university for the 2026 class. This marks a pivotal moment for both Thompson and the Buckeyes.
Thompson’s Rise as a Top Prospect
Thompson hails from Lebanon, Ohio, and currently attends Western Reserve Academy in Hudson. He boasts an impressive .9974 rating in the 247Sports composite rankings. This places him among the most highly regarded prospects ever recruited by Ohio State, ranked fourth since 2000.
Notable Rankings
- Composite Rating: ★★★★★
- Overall Rank: #8 in the 2026 class
- Position Rank: #2 small forward
- Top Recruit from Ohio
Joining a legacy of elite recruits, Thompson follows in the footsteps of notable names such as Greg Oden, B.J. Mullens, and Jared Sullinger. This marks Ohio State’s second acquisition of a top local prospect in four years, having secured Devin Royal in 2023.
Physical Attributes and Skills
Standing at 6 feet 8 inches and weighing 205 pounds, Thompson has a left-handed shooting style. He can score effectively from various areas on the court. His unique shooting technique, described by 247Sports scouting director Adam Finkelstein, features a high release that makes his shots nearly impossible to block.
Thompson’s defensive capabilities are equally impressive, thanks to his remarkable 7-foot-3 wingspan. This length allows him to defend against both perimeter shooters and interior players effectively. While he is still developing physically, he has considerable growth potential, as he won’t turn 18 until August 2026.
Summer Performance Highlights
- Averaged 22 points per game
- Shooting 53% overall and 39% from three-point range
- Defensive stats: 1.9 blocks and 1.6 steals per game
This past summer, Thompson excelled on the Adidas 3Stripes Select circuit, showcasing not only his scoring prowess but also his defensive skills. His performance has solidified his status as a top prospect.
With Thompson’s commitment, Ohio State has further strengthened its recruiting efforts for the future. His addition promises to be an exciting development for the Buckeyes and their fans.
