BREAKING: Top-30 recruit Marcus Johnson has officially decommitted from Ohio State, an announcement made just moments ago. This significant shift comes more than 18 months after he initially pledged to join the Buckeyes in April 2024.
Johnson’s decommitment raises questions following the recent recruitment of five-star senior Anthony Thompson, who was ranked No. 13 nationally and chose Ohio State last week, marking a pivotal moment for the program. Johnson’s departure signals a potential shake-up in Ohio State’s recruitment strategy as they build their roster for the 2026 class.
The 6-foot-2 guard from Garfield Heights High School in Ohio is currently ranked No. 28 in the SC Next 100 for the class of 2026. Johnson gained notoriety last spring when he was named Mr. Basketball in Ohio after an impressive junior year, averaging 29.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists. His stellar performance continued on the Nike EYBL circuit with the Indy Heat grassroots program, where he averaged 19.0 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in 15 games, including three standout performances of over 30 points.
Notably, Johnson is the son of Sonny Johnson, who himself was awarded Mr. Basketball in Ohio in 1998 before continuing his career at Ohio University. This familial legacy adds an emotional layer to Johnson’s decision, as he navigates the complexities of elite-level recruitment.
Ohio State’s recent successes in landing high-profile recruits like Thompson and four-star prospect Alex Smith—both Ohio natives—have heightened expectations for the Buckeyes. As Johnson shifts his focus, the implications for Ohio State’s basketball program and its upcoming seasons are profound.
What happens next? Johnson’s next steps are highly anticipated as he explores new college options. Ohio State fans and basketball enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see how this decommitment reshapes the Buckeyes’ recruitment efforts and impacts their upcoming season.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Johnson’s future unfolds.
