BREAKING NEWS: Five-star senior Anthony Thompson has officially committed to Ohio State, marking a historic moment as the Buckeyes’ highest-ranked men’s basketball recruit in over a decade. This urgent announcement comes as Thompson chose Ohio State over fierce competition from Indiana and Texas, solidifying a significant recruiting win for head coach Jake Diebler amid ongoing Big Ten rivalries.
Thompson’s decision is monumental, as he is the first five-star recruit for Ohio State since D’Angelo Russell in 2014. The talented 6-foot-8 forward, who plays at Western Reserve Academy in Ohio, is currently ranked No. 13 in the SC Next 100, establishing him as the top player in the Midwest.
In an exclusive interview with ESPN, Thompson expressed his excitement: “My relationship with the coaching staff was different. They recruited me hard and consistently made me a priority.” He praised Coach Diebler’s commitment, stating, “He is on the court working with his players during individual workouts. I know I can rely on him to help me.”
Thompson, a versatile shooter with a remarkable 7-foot-4¼ wingspan, has showcased his scoring prowess throughout the spring and summer, averaging 22.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists on the Adidas 3SSB circuit. His efficiency is impressive, with nearly 59% shooting from the field and 87.5% from the free-throw line. During a standout July, he scored over 30 points four times in a five-game stretch.
This commitment is not just a personal triumph for Thompson but also a significant boost for Ohio State’s recruiting class. He joins fellow Ohio natives and four-star recruits Marcus Johnson and Alex Smith, positioning the Buckeyes for a competitive future in college basketball.
Thompson’s focus is clear: “I am going there with the intention of improving and winning and making it to the NBA, however long it takes.” His development plan with Coach Diebler emphasizes long-term growth, reflecting a commitment to both personal and team success.
As basketball fans and Ohio State supporters celebrate this pivotal moment, the implications are vast. Thompson’s arrival is anticipated to energize the Buckeyes’ roster and fanbase, as his dynamic skill set promises to make an immediate impact on the court.
Stay tuned for further updates on Thompson’s journey and Ohio State’s upcoming season, as this commitment reshapes the landscape of college basketball recruiting.
